16 August 2024 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

(090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

Legal Structures for a New Business

I want to start a new business and I would like some advice on the various legal structures my business may take. I want to protect my personal assets as much as possible from creditors in the event of my business being unsuccessful.

Your new business may take the form of a sole trader, a partnership or a limited company.

1. Sole Trader: If you establish your business on your own you may set up as a sole trader. You must register as a self-employed person with the Revenue Commissioners and pay your tax through the SelfAssessment system. If you wish to use a business name you must register your business name with the Companies Registration Ofﬁce. However, this type of legal structure offers little personal protection as you have unlimited liability for all the debts of the business in the event of your business failing i.e. your personal assets may be used to pay your creditors.

2. Partnership: This is where two or more people run a business in partnership with each other. A partnership agreement should be drawn up so that each partner knows what is expected of them in terms of capital contribution and proﬁt sharing. The partners are jointly responsible for running the business. Further, if it fails all partners are jointly and severally liable for the debts of the business i.e. if one partner runs up any debts, the other partners are all liable for those debts.

3. Private Limited Company: Once established, a limited company is a separate legal entity from its owners meaning the owners (the shareholders) of a limited company have limited liability from all the debts of the company. If the company gets into debt, the creditors generally only have a claim against the assets of the company. However, banks usually ask for personal guarantees before issuing any loans so as to protect themselves from the limited liability rule. The company must be registered with the Companies Registration Ofﬁce (CRO) and the company reports and accounts must be returned to the CRO each year. Company proﬁts are liable for corporation tax currently standing at 12.5%.

You should consult with your solicitor and accountant when considering the structure which best suits you. Best of luck with your new business venture.

So, how did your break in West Cork go?

We had a lovely time!

Any highlights?

Er… not really.

Er?

Well, nothing that I’d like to admit in public…

Oh go on!

(They pause to formally ignore more scamtype calls on their smartphones)

Tell me about West Cork, that celebrities’ paradise! Well… we were staying in Skibbereen… Beautiful!

So on Sunday, being on holidays, I decided to go for a few early evening pints… and watch the last of the Olympics! Excellent!

(They pause to record various Premier League matches ahead of the resumption of play)

So?

Well, I was a touch grumpy when the highlights came on. I mean, breakdancing at the Olympics! GIVE ME A BREAK!

Breaking…

Huh?

Breaking, I think that’s what they call it in the Olympics! I wonder did any of it go on in Nancy’s?

Huh?

Wasn’t there a big 1980s-themed Disco in Nancy’s in Roscommon last Friday night?

A fundraiser for Hospice?

Thebarstoolboyos

Oh yes, I heard it was a great success! Brilliant! So, did you hear was there any breakdancing in Nancy’s? Oh, I wouldn’t say so… although I wouldn’t put anything past some of the ‘old crew’!

(They pause to look up breakdancing on YouTube, but lose interest quickly)

So you’re a touch grumpy, but still

enjoying a pint in Skibbereen, watching the Olympics.. what went wrong? Ah, nothing really. I get chatting to this lovely local chap…

Yeah…

He says the Olympics were great…

Right…

I start giving out about the breakdancing… it’s all good fun, but still… WHAT?

Putting my foot in it in Skibbereen… Endangered Species

Well, by my fourth pint, I’m rambling a touch, so I say to my new friend… ‘There’s too much hype about the Olympics and about how well Ireland did’…

You grumpy sod!

Oh I was still complimentary about Team Ireland, but at one stage I said ‘So much hype about jumping around on a wooden horse, and as for that rowing’…

Oh dear…

He was lovely about it.

Who was?

The young chap I was having a pint with. Problem is, when he left, one of the locals said… ‘That was Paul O’Donovan’!

Oh dear! You’d been drinking with one of our gold medal-winning rowers from Skibbereen, and you started dissing his sport?

Well, I had been speaking tongue in cheek! How did it end?

I met him outside later… I’m still not sure if it WAS Paul or if they were pulling my leg… so I mumbled to him…

YEAH?

‘Paul, you and Fintan will be attending the Olympics homecoming ceremony in Dublin on Monday, if you want a lift up I’d be more than happy to…’

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Team Ireland, with our successful Olympians returning to an enthusiastic welcome in Dublin on Monday

Cork, winners of the AllIreland senior camogie title (they defeated Galway in a close ﬁnal)

A number of County Roscommon performers, who excelled at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford (see report in this issue)

It’s been a BAD week for…

A number of local businesses, which were targeted by thieves in the early hours of Tuesday morning (our thoughts are with these SMEs at this difﬁcult time)

PIC OF THE WEEK: Sarah and Zack Healy pictured at Saturday’s Roscommon SHC match between St Dominic’s and Tremane in Creggs. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Local businesses targeted by crime gang

A number of local businesses were broken into by a crime gang in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Mee’s Daybreak in Knockcroghery was targeted by the raiders shortly after 4 am. It is also believed that the same gang had stolen a sum of cash from a premises in Roscommon town a short time earlier. It is thought that the gang were travelling in at least two (possibly three) vehicles. A dark-

coloured Audi and a BMW with false number plates were spotted on CCTV cameras as they entered the forecourt of the Daybreak store in Knockcroghery.

It’s believed the gang gained entry to the premises through a side-door (using crowbars) and that a substantial amount of cash was taken along with a large quantity of cigarettes from the in-store machine.

Eyewitness reports indicated

that these two vehicles were later seen driving along the Athlone bypass before turning off at the junction for Ballymahon.

A separate but possibly linked BMW car was discovered burnt out at the Oran GAA Club grounds on Tuesday morning after local reports of attempted break-ins in other parts of the county.

Gardaí says investigations into the break-ins are ongoing.

Child Benefit has now been paid for 750 over-18year-olds in County Roscommon for the very first time, Fine Gael senator Aisling Dolan has said. Child benefit is available to anyone across the country who is 18 and in full-time education, or who has a disability, up until their 19th birthday, and is paid at a rate of €140 per month.

To date, this measure has beneﬁted over 58,000 young people in full-time education or with a disability.

Senator Aisling Dolan said, “I received an update from my colleague, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys TD, and I am delighted to see 750 young people and their families in County Roscommon beneﬁtting from this extension of child beneﬁt, a vital support for hard-working families.

“This measure, which has now been successfully implemented by the Government, is making a tangible difference in the pockets of families throughout the county.

“Children in Roscommon are starting primary school a bit later, at age ﬁve, and many are also doing transition year in secondary school.

“The extension of Child Beneﬁt to 18-year-olds in full-time education or with a disability is a longterm improvement that will support all families across Roscommon and into the future.

“This change ensures that no child or family in Roscommon misses out on the support they need during critical educational years, providing them with ﬁnancial stability and peace of mind as they pursue their studies and prepare for the future”

Senator Dolan concluded.

Bring the kids to meet some of their favourite characters

Then check out the shops and services available in Harrison Centre

For the chance to win vouchers for the centre, take a photo with one of the characters on the day and tag us on Instagram or Facebook

National School

• Athleague National School

• Roscommon Community College

• Convent of Mercy Secondary School

• St. Mary’s College, Ballygar

• Community College, Lanesboro

• CBS, Roscommon

• Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown Non-Crested Knitwear

Pictured is Éabha McArdle, a former student of Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar, who received an award for achieving the overall highest result in Design and Communication Graphics (DCG) in the Leaving Certi cate Higher Level Exam 2023. Éabha is pictured with her proud parents, Siobhán McLoughlin and Hugh McArdle.

Making ‘The Cut’ for Heritage Week

As part of National Heritage Week 2024, readers are warmly invited to drop in and attend the event ‘The Cut’, taking place on the banks of the Lung River and hosted by artistresearchers Nollaig Molloy and Anna King. The event will run from 12 pm to 4 pm on Sunday, August 25th Nollaig will explore the origins and construction of ‘The Cut’ on the river, a site which fuelled a hydro turbine that powered the town of Ballaghaderreen from 1913 to the early 1930s. Together with archival material, locally-dug clay, and local sharing of

knowledge and environmental observations – along with the presence of a catchment scientist from LAWPRO (Local Access Water Programme) – this event will see tangible discoveries of place, natural resources and community be presented.

Anna will reﬂect upon the symbolism of the Lung River, which represents the timeless ﬂow of life weaving through land and townscapes, nourishing ecosystems, and connecting communities.

She will draw on personal stories from the Ballaghaderreen community

about ‘The Cut’s outdoor swimming pool, once a focal point for gathering and interaction in the 1970s and 1980s.

These narratives will highlight the profound relevance of ‘Placeways’ and the enduring bond between people and place. The event is located in a ﬁeld with areas of uneven terrain, so please dress appropriately for the site and weather. There is limited car parking available. No booking is required. For further details, please visit the event listings section of heritage.ie.

‘Ramble in’ for drama and song

Enjoy an evening of story, drama and song at The Rambling House at Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen on Friday, August 30th, from 8 pm to late! Performances on the night include

acclaimed storyteller Vincent Pierse, a short play called ‘Brideshead’ directed by local director and actress Julie Sharkey, and new music by Lee Regan of Diaspora.

No booking is required to attend, but there is an opportunity to sign up to perform on the night, and due to interest, these spaces are limited.

The 4-star Abbey Hotel in Roscommon have unveiled their exciting new seasonal à la carte menu for summer.

The new menu provides a fabulous selection of delicious dishes to choose from, with something for everyone to enjoy at the Abbey’s award-winning Terrace Restaurant.

Combining outstanding food with an inviting atmosphere, the Abbey offers the ideal setting for your next meal out – for both intimate gatherings and larger events.

Reservations are now open for all special occasions, with booking now being accepted for family gatherings, birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties, and any other private functions.

Please note that booking is essential, and can be done by phone on 090 6626240 or email via restaurant@abbeyhotel.ie

Don’t forget to keep up to date with the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon by following them on all social media channels – Facebook, Instagram,

TikTok, and X (Twitter). Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful dining experience in a beautiful setting, and experience the new seasonal à la carte menu available now at the Abbey Hotel’s awardwining restaurant!

Ardcarne Garden

Located at Ardcarne Garden Centre Boyle

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

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Athlone Castle celebrates Heritage Week’s 2024 theme: ‘Connections, Routes, Networks’

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre will once again deliver an exciting programme of events during National Heritage Week (from Saturday, August 17th, to Sunday, August 25th), designed to cater to all ages.

The events will be held in collaboration with a broad selection of specialist heritage experts, facilitators, artisans, and historians, and supported by the Heritage Council under the Irish Walled Towns Network 2024 Interpretation Fund.

The ﬁrst event, ‘Gardening for a sustainable future’ takes place on Saturday, August 17th, and will see Athlone Castle courtyard turn into a gardening fair with demonstrations and advice on sustainable gardening from various experts and green-ﬁngered locals.

There will be two stagings of ‘Nature’s Treasure Hunt’ on each Sunday of Heritage Week (August 18th and 25th). The reg-

ular admission ticket includes the activity, which will help familiarise visitors with the new Herb Garden at Athlone Castle. It’s a fun and easy treasure hunt with educational questions spread throughout the grounds. The ‘Guided Tour of Athlone Castle Garden’ is a new event for this year, which introduces visitors to the Athlone Castle Historical Herb Garden. The mini-tours take place on Tuesday, August 20th, on Thursday, August 22nd, and on Friday, August 23rd. Access to this event is included with a regular admission fee. Places are limited, and pre-booking is essential.

Members of the Society for Creative Anachronism will return to Athlone Castle on Wednesday, August 21st, for the much-loved ‘Storm the Castle’ with a re-enactment of a medieval town market. There will be onsite demonstrations of

medieval cooking with herbs, dyes and pigment making, ﬁbre art including nalbinding, lucet braiding and much more. The event starts at 10.30 am and ends at 5.30 pm. Saturday, August 24th, will see a series of family-friendly workshops and demonstrations on pollinators. For ‘Bee Creative,’ visitors will join Jesmond Harding (an expert on some of Ireland’s smallest residents, such as butterﬂies) for talks and demonstrations starting at 11 am. Access to this event is included with a regular admission fee, starting at 10.30 am and ending at 4.30 pm. All the 2024 Heritage Week events at Athlone Castle, County Westmeath are supported by the Heritage Council under the Irish Walled Towns Network 2024 Interpretation Fund. For further details on events and bookings, visit athlonecastle.ie/ events.

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be holding Church gate collections at the following churches over the weekend of August 17th and 18th

On Sunday, August 18th, collections will be held at St Catherine’s Church in Killina and in St Brigid’s Church in Breedogue. Collections will also be held at the Church of The Sacred Heart and St Barry in Tarmonbarry on both Saturday, August 17th, and Sunday, August 18th

This collection is a great opportunity to raise much-needed funds for animal welfare work and also to raise awareness of RSPCA’s mission and vision.

If you would like to learn more about our organisation, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

All donations go directly towards animal welfare in the county.

Week

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre will once again deliver an exciting programme of events during National Heritage Week

FRIDAY

Reggie and the cat…

My late father took quite an interest in reading the wills on page 2 of the Sunday Independent, being fascinated by the sizeable estates left by folks!

I’m more of a ‘Celebrity Birthdays’ column person (although I do glance at the published wills).

Today, I read online (not in the Sunday Independent) that it’s the birthday of the colourful British journalist and broadcaster Reginald Bosanquet. Most likely, only readers of a ‘certain age’ will remember good old Reggie, who was born on the 9th of August in 1932, and who died in May 1984.

I remember Reggie/Reginald because he was a very popular newsreader on ITV, much-loved for his individualistic broadcasting style, sense of humour, and gregarious personality.

It was well known that he liked a drink, not least because his live broadcasts occasionally indicated that he’d had one or two before going on air!

I know that cat lovers might not like the following story, but it is part of the ‘Bosanquet legend’. On the ITV News At Ten one night, Reginald introduced one of those ‘And ﬁnally’ stories.

The report informed viewers that an old lady had called the Fire Brigade to rescue her cat, which was stranded up a tree. The ﬁremen in London were on strike at the time, but they obliged, and successfully rescued the cat.

The elderly lady was so grateful, she invited all the ﬁremen in for tea.

A while later, when they were leaving her house, the Fire Brigade unfortunately ran over the cat and killed it.

When the TV report ended and returned to the News at Ten studio, Reginald Bosanquet was unable to control his laughter!

SATURDAY

What Squiddy thinks…

Reading replies on the increasingly ugly X/Twitter has more or less reached the ‘point’ of pointlessness…

After Rhasidat Adeleke came fourth in the 400m ﬁnal at the Olympics

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie

this evening, Tánaiste Micheál Martin posted: ‘Superb run Rhasidat Adeleke. So close to a medal in a 400m Olympic ﬁnal of the highest quality. Incredible performance in your ﬁrst games. The country so proud of you’.

The very ﬁrst reply (from the essentially anonymous ‘Squiddy’) read: ‘I want the death penalty reinstated for treason’.

SUNDAY

Malcolm in the muddle!

For Senator Malcolm Byrne, it was just another day at the ofﬁce (even it was a Sunday). As he sat at his desk, the words of an adviser rang in his ears.

“Malcolm, if you insist on issuing a press release today, keep it simple, straightforward. Don’t try to be too clever”.

Malcolm stroked his brow and looked

into the distance. His mind was alive with possibilities. Again, the words of the adviser came back to him.

“Malcolm, whatever you do – and I know what you’re like! – don’t look for any limelight from the glow of Ireland’s Olympic success! These heroes are making their way home as we speak… it’s their weekend, their week! If you must issue a press release, focus on some local project. Keep it simple!”

Malcolm pondered. He looked at the bookcase in the corner, containing his collection of books on inspirational world leaders. He smiled. Then Malcolm looked at the mirror in his ofﬁce, which (unsurprisingly) reﬂected his own image back to him. Malcolm addressed himself.

‘Malcolm, your adviser is the one playing it safe. You, Malcolm, are a visionary. You have a vision for your country, your people”.

He began to type, while muttering aloud that giving staff Sundays off was a bad idea.

Nervous, his adviser conscientiously phoned. “Malcolm, keep it simple, don’t hog the limelight!”

But Malcolm kept typing. Later, the adviser arrived just as the completed press release was pinged off into the public domain. It was too late.

‘Fianna Fáil senator Malcolm Byrne calls on Ireland to bid to host 2072 Olympic Games’

Malcolm closed his laptop and smiled.

In calling for Ireland to host the Olympics in, er, almost 50 years’ time, he felt he had got the balance just right… between being visionary, pragmatic, and not hogging the limelight. Important not to ‘milk the Olympic fever’ out there. He looked at his smartphone, and chuckled as the calls began…

*I may have taken some artistic license in my visualisation of how this all un-

folded, but Senator Malcolm Byrne (who, in fairness, is vice-chair of the Oireachtas Sports Committee), did suggest today that Ireland should set itself what he called the “ambitious goal of hosting the Olympics in half a century’s time”, adding “cynics will knock the move… but it’s a time to be imaginative”. He also admitted there will “probably be a few eye-rolls” at his suggestion. Indeed!

There are unconﬁrmed reports that a special gold medal for ‘Shamelessly hogging the headlines on the back of a nation’s joy’ will be delivered to Senator Byrne in due course!

MONDAY

Po-faced pedestrians

In other news, the rise of the ‘po-faced pedestrians’ continues.

Readers will be aware that once upon a time (like, up to a few years ago) common courtesy applied when motorists graciously ‘gave way’ to pedestrians (or indeed to other drivers). Yes, you are correct: I have previously raised this important issue in this very column (for a friend, naturally). So, to recap: It used to be the case that when a motorist ‘gave way’ to a person looking to, for example, cross the road, the thoughtful driver could expect some kind of acknowledgement in return… a wave, thumbs-up, smile, even a nod… usually followed by that awkward half-skip that people do when a motorist indicates they can cross in front of their vehicle. Sadly, this practice (of acknowledging the gesture) can no longer be taken for granted. Too often now, the pedestrian will simply step out in front of the motorist… with their head in the air!

Occasionally, the experience is equally frustrating (i.e. no acknowledgement) when a driver gives way to another driver.

I hasten to add that most pedestrians and motorists are still friendly and grateful, but there is a noticeable trend of people not acknowledging the kindness being shown to them.

These po-faced pedestrians/disrespectful drivers/moody motorists are testing our patience. We will continue to monitor this phenomenon!

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said there are serious questions to answer as to why a lead vacancy at the Psychiatry of Later Life (POLL) in the E-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea remains unﬁlled since the facility opened in 2020.

Deputy Kerrane said, “I have been asking about the supports and stafﬁng of the E-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea since it opened to great fanfare in June 2020. I allowed for some time, given we were in the midst of Covid-19. However in 2021, I discovered – and highlighted at the time – that the minister hadn’t in fact provided the funding to actually staff the facility.

“Very quickly after raising this on the ﬂoor of the Dáil, fund-

health facility

ing for posts began, however the post of Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist remains unﬁlled since 2021”.

Deputy Kerrane said she is concerned as to the impact this vacancy has on older people who use the facility.

“I am also concerned that the HSE are not able to provide me with ﬁgures as to the number of older people who have availed of supports at the facility. They were able to tell me that 511 therapeutic sessions have taken place for the CAMHS Connect part of the facility – and I welcome this as this service is for young people across the Western Region.

“I have gone back to the HSE to ask them to outline the efforts

they have made to ﬁll the vacancy of Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist. I want to see (evidence of) the actual efforts being made to ﬁll this post”.

The TD said she appreciates there is a crisis in recruitment and retention in the health service, but points out that the vacancy in question is now of four years’ duration.

“People will remember what the E-Mental Health Hub was the Rosalie Home, which provided so much care and love to the older people who called it home. It’s bad enough to close it, but then quietly not staff what replaced it? I will not rest until older people get the care promised at this facility” Deputy Kerrane concluded.

First Roscommon Pride march this weekend

Roscommon Pride is gearing up for its ﬁrst ever Pride march and a weekend full of festivities. Will Keane, a well-known LGBTQIA+ activist from Roscommon, has been named the Grand Marshall for the event. The inaugural march will take place on Saturday, 24th of August, starting at 2 pm at The Quad in Roscommon Town.

Event Manager, Karina Murray, emphasised that Roscommon Pride is more than just a Pride march. She stated: “The entire weekend will send a powerful statement of inclusivity to the whole county and will act as a platform to launch a year-round LGBTQAI+ community group in Roscommon. We invite everyone, LGBTQAI+ folks and their allies, to join us in making history together”.

Event highlights

The weekend kicks off on Friday night, August 23rd, with Drag Bingo at the Red Parrot public

house on the Square, hosted by Donatello (8 pm).

Saturday begins with a discussion on LGBTQ+ resilience at The Quad Youth Centre on the Circular Road (11 am), followed by the Pride March at 2 pm. Post-march, there will be a Family Fun Day in Loughnaneane Park, featuring performances and a ‘Pooch of Pride’ contest for the best dressed pupster in town.

The celebrations continue into the night with a Pride Party from 9.30 pm at The Coachman’s Inn on Castle Street, featuring performances by The HAUS of KWÉN and a DJ set.

The weekend wraps up on Sunday with a familyfriendly Colour Run (11 am) and a special ﬁlm screening in Boyle (3.30 pm).

*For ticketing and pre-registration and full details of the weekend line-up and events, visit www.roscommonpride.ie

Eoghan Kinsella pictured with Senan and Fionn Nolan during the recent Roscommon SFC rst round match between Michael Glaveys and St Brigid’s in Ballinlough. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Sat 17th 10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle

Roscommon Castle

Sat 24th 10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle Roscommon Castle

Sat 17th 10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle Roscommon Castle

10-5pm Wild Child Day Children’s Scavenger Hunt: Call to Visitor Centre Reception for map of walled garden. Free Strokestown Park

10-5.15pm Boyle Abbey: Join OPW guides for a tour of the atmospheric ruins of Boyle Abbey. Free Boyle Abbey

11-4pm Douglas Hyde Interpretative Centre: Tells the life story of Ireland’s first president Dr. Douglas Hyde (1860-1949) and his contribution to modern Ireland. F45 HD56 Frenchpark

12-2pm Woodland Wellbeing Ecotherapy: celebrate nature & sustainability. Suitable for 16yrs+. Limited spaces available. Booking Essential Strokestown Park

11-1pm Guided Tour of Ardcarne Old Graveyard: led by Mary B Timoney, MA Archaeologist & Author with Ardcarne Parish Graveyard Committee

Ardcarne Graveyard (On the N4)

10-5.15pm Boyle Abbey: Join OPW guides for a tour of the atmospheric ruins of Boyle Free Boyle Abbey 11-1pm Guided Tour of Ardcarne Old Graveyard: led by Mary B Timoney, MA Archaeologist & Author with Ardcarne Parish Graveyard Committee Ardcarne Graveyard (On the N4)

2-4pm Schools Heritage Project: Exhibition by pupils from Aughrim NS, Dangan NS & Scrabbagh NS. Photographic Exhibition and Collection: Bring along your old photos. Presented by Aughrim Kilmore History Society

Community Centre

11am & 2pm

Tours of Frybrook House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

11am & 2pm Tours of Frybrook House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

Frybrook House, Boyle

3-4pm Mindful Connections Walk: Join Patricia Blighe, Mindful Leader, for a walk on the forest trail at Derrydonnell Meet near F42 E193 Mote

11-4pm Douglas Hyde Interpretative Centre: Tells the life story of Ireland’s first president Dr. Douglas Hyde (1860-1949) and his contribution to modern Ireland. Free

3-4pm Life Writing: Olive Pakenham Mahon’s Diary: Illustrated talk by Pippa Tutschek, on her Erasmus experience and research into the diaries of Olive Packenham Mahon, the last resident of the Big House

11-4pm Douglas Hyde Interpretative Centre: Tells the life story of Ireland’s first president Dr. Douglas Hyde (1860-1949) and his contribution to modern Ireland. Free

4- 4.45pm Volunteer Grain Project – Farm to Fork: Nature & sustainability talk & demonstration. No booking required. Free

8.30pm Bat Talk: Join Roscommon Tidy Towns & Ecologist David Fallon for a bat talk & walk. Try using a bat detector. Free

10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle

2pm-4pm ‘Boyle Abbey, from Monastery to Barracks’: an illustrated talk by Dr. Rachel Moss, Associate Professor, Dept of the History of Art & Architecture, Trinity College, Dublin in collaboration with OPW & King House. Free

10-11am Mayflies of Ireland - a National Survey: Water Heritage Day webinar by Dr Jan-Robert Baars (UCD/AQUENS Ltd) on the ongoing effort to record this ancient group of insects in freshwater habitats across the country. Booking required

2-3pm Boyle Historic Walking Tour: Join Úna Bhán Tourism & Local Historian Tony Conboy for a guided stroll of the historic and cultural sites of Boyle town

11-4pm The Big Dig: Children & young adults can experience what it is like to be an archaeologist by learning how to excavate the remains of a Viking house. Free. Booking advised

2-3pm Boyle Historic Walking Tour: Join Úna Bhán Tourism & Local Historian Tony Conboy for a guided stroll of the historic and cultural sites of Boyle town

7 - 8.30pm Doon to Diesel: Join Aughrim Kilmore History Society for a talk on our rich transport heritage by Alf Monaghan

Frenchpark F45 HD56

King House, Boyle

Boyle Craft Shop, grounds of King House, Boyle

Park, Castlerea 11.303.30pm In Time - An Immersive Theatrical Experience: Step into history in an interactive & immersive historical quest. Suitable for all ages. Five 1-hour slots available. Booking required

Dangan Community Centre

Roscommon Castle

7 - 8.30pm Doon to Diesel: Join Aughrim Kilmore History Society for a talk on our rich transport heritage by Alf Monaghan Dangan Community Centre Sun 18th 10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle

10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle

Roscommon Castle

10-5.15pm Boyle Abbey: Join OPW Guides for a tour of the atmospheric ruins of Boyle Abbey. Free Boyle Abbey

12-4pm 'The Cut' on the Lung River: Creative Places Ballaghaderreen artist-researchers Nollaig Molloy and Anna King invite you to explore natural, built & cultural heritage on the banks of the Lung River

10-5.15pm Boyle Abbey: Join OPW Guides for a tour of the atmospheric ruins of Boyle Abbey. Free

Boyle Abbey

2– 4pm Toberelva Cemetery Talk: Join Castleplunkett Dev. Assoc. & Manus Tiernan to discover the history of this ancient cemetery & holy well Toberelva Cemetery, Castleplunkett

10:30 - 1pm Woodland Wander at Rinnagan Reserve: Join the Native Woodland Trust for a tour of their Rinnagan woodland nature reserve and tree nursery near Lecarrow. Booking required

2.304.30pm Castlecoote Loop (Suck Valley Way): Celebrate Water Heritage Day with Castlecoote Tidy Towns. Heritage & Biodiversity Walk led by Mary Leyden, Historian. Meet at St. Ciaran’s Community Centre

10:30 - 1pm Woodland Wander at Rinnagan Reserve: Join the Native Woodland Trust for a tour of their Rinnagan woodland nature reserve and tree nursery near Lecarrow. Booking required Native Woodland Trust Reserve, Lecarrow 11 & 2pm Tours of Frybrook House – Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

3-5pm Harvest Meitheal & Dance: scythe demonstration with music, song, dance, straw crafts, thrashing display & homemade food cooked on the open fire with Sowing the Seed Project N41 D288

Frybrook House, Boyle

Native Woodland Trust Reserve, Lecarrow 11 & 2pm Tours of Frybrook House – Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

12.30-2pm Unveiling of Commemorative Plaques: Tulsk History Society honour four parish natives

All week 11am –3.45pm Tours of Clonalis House in Association with Historic Houses of Ireland: Guided tours of the ancestral home of the O’Conor family, descendants of Ireland’s last High Kings and traditional Kings of Connacht (not Sundays). Booking required. Castlerea Library Hours Roscommon’s Holy Wells Customs & Cures: Exhibition highlighting the findings of research carried out by Tamlyn McHugh of Fadó Archaeology on the heritage of holy wells in Co Roscommon

12.30-2pm Unveiling of Commemorative Plaques: Tulsk History Society honour four parish natives Tulsk Village 11- 4pm A Day of Automotive History: Display of classic cars with Roscommon Sports & Classic Car Club

Tulsk Village 11- 4pm A Day of Automotive History: Display of classic cars with Roscommon Sports & Classic Car Club

Strokestown Park

12pm – 4pm Elphin Windmill: Guided Tours of fully restored 18th century windmill

3 – 4.30pm Kilmeane Graveyard Revisited Tour & Lecture: Join Mote Park Conservation Group for a tour led by Mary B Timoney MA Archaeologist editor of the recently published book ‘Kilmeane, Co Roscomon’

Kilmeane Graveyard, Roscommon 5pm-7pm Tour of Ryefield Barn Church with Brendan Fox & Elphin Area Community Enterprise

Search digital projects www.heritageweek.ie

Kilmeane Graveyard, Roscommon 5pm-7pm Tour of Ryefield Barn Church with Brendan Fox & Elphin Area Community Enterprise

Roscommon's Holy Wells Customs & Cures: Short film highlighting the heritage of holy wells in Co Roscommon Online

7.308.30pm Tribes of Uí Maine Project: Talk exploring the genetic & genealogical heritage of the medieval Kingdom of Uí Maineregion of south Roscommon, east Galway, the Clare borderlands and Lusmagh parish in Co. Offaly

Ryefield Barn Church, Elphin

Roscommon's Holy Wells Customs & Cures: Story map highlighting the heritage of holy wells in Co Roscommon Online Mosaics in Roscommon: Short film celebrating Roscommon’s unique mosaic heritage Online

11am& 2pm Tours of Frybrook House – Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

Athleague Community Centre

Ryefield Barn Church, Elphin

Athleague Community Centre Mon 19th 11am& 2pm Tours of Frybrook House – Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

Celebrate National Heritage Week 2024

Boyle 11.30-3pm Tour King House Historical & Cultural Centre: Heritage Day Free Tours at 11.30 / 12.30 / 2.00 / 3.00 Learn about the fascinating King Family & the history of the highly respected Connaught Rangers

11.30-3pm Tour King House Historical & Cultural Centre: Heritage Day Free Tours at 11.30 / 12.30 / 2.00 / 3.00 Learn about the fascinating King Family & the history of the highly respected Connaught Rangers

6pm- Later Medieval Gaelic Settlement in Machaire Connacht: Pre-recorded illustrated talk by Dr. Eve Campbell, Senior Archaeologist with AMS insights from the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road Project

Later Medieval Gaelic Settlement in Machaire Connacht with AMS insights from the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road Project Castle in Communities Field School 2024: Talk by Dr. Niall Brady on ongoing research & excavation in Ballintubber Harnessing The River at Strokestown Park: Screening of film followed by a guided walk to discover how wa use in the early days of Strokestown Park House. Booking advised Tours of Frybrook House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential Connecting with our Heritage – The buildings that define our streets: bring together ideas for the heritage led regeneration plan for Strokesto Roscommon’s Holy Wells Customs & Cures: Launch of exhibition, short film & story map highlighting the findings of research carried out by Tamlyn McHugh of Fadó Archaeology on the heritage of holy wells in Co Roscommon, refreshments served.

ok House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

Castle in Communities Field School 2024: Talk by Dr. Niall Brady on ongoing research & excavation in Ballintubber Harnessing The River at Strokestown Park: Screening of film followed by a guided walk to discover how wa use in the early days of Strokestown Park House. Booking advised Tours of Frybrook House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential Connecting with our Heritage – The buildings that define our streets: bring together ideas for the heritage led regeneration plan for Strokesto Roscommon’s Holy Wells Customs & Cures: Launch of exhibition, short film & story map highlighting the findings of research carried out by Tamlyn McHugh of Fadó Archaeology on the heritage of holy wells in Co Roscommon, refreshments served. ok House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential

Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential

Lough Ree Heritage Boat Tour: Join Lough Ree Access for All for a free guided boat trip to view the historic Inchcleraun Island. Limited spaces. Booking essential Ballyleague Tours of Frybrook House: Built in 1753, this Georgian House, one of the oldest and finest in Boyle, has many stories to tell of its long history. In association with Historic Houses of Ireland. Booking advised

National Heritage Week 2024 takes place from 17th to 25th August. It is one of Ireland’s largest cultural events. This year’s theme “Connections, Routes and Networks” explores the many ways we are linked through our heritage. There are events all around the county for all ages & interests –kid’s events, guided tours, nature walks, historic walks, displays, history talks, family history, sites and monuments tours, farming &and archaeology, storytelling, local history and traditions and exhibitions. There are activities for Wild Child Day and events for Water Heritage Day. There are even digital projects which can be accessed from your own home. Many events are free. See advert for event listings. National Heritage Week, supported by Roscommon County Council with thanks to funding from the Heritage Council; brings together communities, families, organisations, cultural institutions, academics and enthusiasts, to build awareness about the value of heritage and support its conservation.

Frybrook House, Boyle Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential

Many of the National Heritage Week events in Co. Roscommon are organised by volunteers and community groups, who are the foundation of this wonderful festival of heritage. Their dedication and generosity ensure the success of National Heritage Week, offering diverse and enriching experiences for anybody with even a passing interest in

heritage. “National Heritage Week is a celebration of our built, natural & cultural heritage and the value that people and communities all around the county place on it”, said Nollaig Feeney, Roscommon County Council Heritage Ofﬁcer. Search www.heritageweek.ie for details of all events and digital projects nationwide. You can ﬁlter your search by county, date or event

House, Boyle Family History Clinic: facilitated by local genealogists to introduce & aid members of public research to their family trees. Places limited. Booking essential

type. Make sure you don’t miss any events - simply click on the heart icon beside your favourite events & click on ‘My Events Trail’ to create your own National Heritage Week events trail. You can print, email or share your events trail on facebook & twitter, so you won’t miss your favourite events. You can also follow #heritageweek2024 on social media.

Strokestown Library & Ballaghaderreen Library

Strokestown Library & Ballaghaderreen Library Detailing Two Contrasting Railway Stations - A Local Railway History: Drum Heritage Group present a talk by Eamonn Leonard Drum Heritage Centre 8 - 9.30pm The Poets of Ireland to One House – Galey Castle: Project Knockcroghery presents a talk by Dr. Daniel Curley in Cullen Hall Knockcroghery

8 - 9.30pm Detailing Two Contrasting Railway Stations - A Local Railway History: Drum Heritage Group present a talk by Eamonn Leonard Drum Heritage Centre

8 - 9.30pm The Poets of Ireland to One House – Galey Castle: Project Knockcroghery presents a talk by Dr. Daniel Curley in Cullen Hall Knockcroghery Fri 23rd 9-5pm Farming Rathcroghan Conference 2024: sharing the success story of the Farming Rathcroghan Project to date while offering a forum to discuss and debate the impact of emerging issues in agriculture. Booking required

Visitor Centre, Tulsk 10-5pm Roscommon Castle: Join OPW guides for a tour of the SW tower of this dramatic & imposing 13th century castle

Castle 11-12pm Pollinator Workshop: Learn about our wild bees and the honey-bee and how the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan was developed to help them. Get to know bee-keeping equipment and skills. Booking advised Castlerea Library

1-1.30pm The History and Evolution of the Telephone Network: Join Úna Bhán Tourism & Michael Larkin, author of 'Making the Right Connections' to find out all about the history of the telephone network

advised

1-2pm Pollinator Workshop: Learn about our wild bees and the honey-bee and how the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan was developed

Boyle Craft Shop, grounds of King House, Boyle

Frybrook House,

King House, Boyle

Online

Boyle Library

Frybrook House, Boyle

King House, Boyle

Frybrook House, Boyle

Boyle Library

Frybrook

Rathcroghan

Roscommon

Boyle Craft Shop, grounds of King House, Boyle

Loughnaneane Park in Roscommon town. Events during National Heritage Week include tours or talks on Roscommon Castle, Ballintubber Castle and Galey Castle. See advertisement for more details.

Lung, Ballaghaderreen

Castlecoote

Mount Allen Eco Farm

Roscommon Library

Elphin Windmill

Local artist showcases new exhibition

Roscommon County Council is delighted to welcome this month’s exhibiting artist to Roscommon County Council –Noel Molloy.

Noel needs little introduction, as he is a Roscommon-based visual and performance artist. His exhibition ‘Portrait of a Traumatic Cataract’ is currently on display in the foyer space of Roscommon County Council’s ofﬁces in Roscommon town.

The exhibition consists of a series of self-portraits and an interpretive study of the anatomy and function of the eye, as well as surgical procedures and related medical illustrative studies.

The exhibition analyses the traumatic cataract – a type of cataract that develops as a result of an injury or trauma to the eye – and the subsequent surgical procedures involved, such as pre-operative analysis and developments, the removal of the cataract, and the implantation of an intraocular lens – plus all the associated psychological trauma.

The exhibition looks at the psychological effects through visual illustrations.

The traumatic cataract in question occurred in lockdown 2020, so the exhibition also considers the procedures and difﬁculties in dealing and coping with the restrictions imposed during the time of the Covid pandemic and beyond.

The exhibition comprises materials such as homemade charcoal, charcoal pencil, and coloured tissue paper collage drawings and sculpture reliefs. The exhibition is open to view during Council business hours. Prices and contact information are located near the exhibition. For more, visit noelmolloyart.com.

Lough Ree RNLI called to assist 23 people on lake in the past week

The August Bank Holiday heralded the busiest week of the year for Lough Ree RNLI with the volunteer crew tasked to six callouts with 23 people and a dog on board boats in difﬁculty on the water.

On Saturday, August 10th, there were two incidents. Just before 9 pm, the lifeboat was tasked by the Irish Coast Guard to a private boat with eight people on board north of Hare Island. Under volunteer helm Tom Bradbury, the lifeboat crew arrived at the scene at 9.25 pm to ﬁnd an 18ft boat which had suffered engine failure. The ﬁve children and three adults on board, who were all wearing life jackets, were all safe and well. Six casualties were taken to the lifeboat station at Coosan Point and two to Portaneena.

Earlier on Saturday (at 10.30 am), Lough Ree RNLI was alerted by a passing boat to assist a cruiser with four people on board, which had run aground. The lifeboat crew, under volunteer helm Kieran Sloyan, arrived at the scene at Bantry Bay. Following an inspection by the crew, the boat was towed off the rocks to safe water.

Lough Ree RNLI lifeboat crew were on the water for over ﬁve hours in two separate callouts on Wednesday, August 7th

At midday there was a call to assist a boat with one person on board, which had run aground near the RNLI lifeboat station and off Killinure Point. With volunteer helm Shane McCormack, the lifeboat crew were quickly at the scene and found a 36ft cruiser aground at Gowlane Rock. Despite an operation lasting over an hour, the lifeboat was unable to free the boat from the rock and a nearby barge was called to assist.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Irish Coast Guard tasked Lough Ree RNLI to assist a vessel in difﬁculty on the north of the lake. Launched at 3.33 pm, the lifeboat crew under volunteer helm Kieran Sloyan reached the incident on the Longford shore at 4 pm. On inspection, the crew found a 40’ steel barge with

four people on board stranded on rocks near Marker 502. The barge was taken under tow to Ballyleague, Co Roscommon.

The busiest week of the year for Lough Ree RNLI began on Sunday, August 4th, with a call to assist a private boat with four people on board which had suffered engine failure north of Hare Island. Under volunteer helm Liam Sherringham, the vessel was taken under tow to Quigley’s Marina on the Leinster shore.

On Sunday, August 11th at 4.20 pm, a callout was re-

ceived to a small tender adrift near Marker No 5. On arrival at the scene, the Lough Ree RNLI volunteer crew found two people and a family pet on board. The boat was towed to Portrunny on the Roscommon shore for safety while the father, daughter, and their dog were transferred by the lifeboat to Quigley’s Marina. Commenting on a busy week Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Kevin Ganly thanked all of the Lough Ree RNLI volunteers who responded to the callouts.

Conference 2024

FARMING RATHCROGHAN CONFERENCE

Friday 23rd August 2024

9.00-9.30: Registration

9.30- 9.45

Richie Farrell: Project Manager, Farming Rathcroghan Welcome and Introductions

9.45- 10.00 Joe Fenwick, University of Galway “Rathcroghan: The Late Prehistoric ‘royal’ capital of Connacht”

10.00 – 10.15 Daniel Curley- Rathcroghan Visitor Centre.

Updates from a busy year at Rathcroghan Visitor Centre

10.15-10.30 Tea/Co ee

10.30 – 11.00 Damien Murray, Coordinator Origin Green -Bord Bia Agricultural Insights and Sustainability

11.00- 11.30 Aoife Moore,Roscommon County Council County Roscommon: Local Authority Climate Action Plan 2024-2029

11.30-12.00 John Murphy, IFA National Environment Committee Chair Nature Restoration Law

12.00- 12.30 Owen Murphy, Project Manager Breeding Waders EIP

12.30-2.00 Lunch

2.00- 2.30 Dr Enda O’Flaherty, Rubicon Heritage. Archaeology in the Planning Process

2.30- 3.00

Aengus Finnegan Collecting eld names and minor placenames

3.00- 3.30 Tea/Co ee

3.30- 4.00 Catherine Keena,Teagasc, Countryside Management Specialist Farmland Biodiversity

4.00- 4.30 Shem Caul eld The Wrought Iron Farm Gate

4.30-5.00 Closing Remarks

Damien Murray.

Shem Caulﬁeld.

Daniel Curley.

Aengus Finnegan.

John Murphy.

Joe Fenwick.

Aoife Moore.

Owen Murphy.

Dr. Enda O’Flaherty.

Catherine Keena

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Zero tolerance is right approach to racists on the far-right

Our columnist Frank on how to deal with anarchy sparked by the ‘far-right’… making a return as a club hurling spectator, reﬂections on Galway’s loss in the All-Ireland camogie ﬁnal, some thoughts on a memorable Olympic Games, and a night of thunder and lightning…

As Belfast and other cities across the United Kingdom continue to experience all kinds of anarchy and unrest – much of it fuelled by what are called keyboard racists – it is encouraging to see that the authorities in Britain are, more or less, adopting a zero tolerance attitude towards everyone who stirs up hatred online, as well as those who are inspired to carry out acts of thuggery and violence by the words of the online racists.

People who encouraged disorder by urging others to set ﬁre to and smash places that were housing asylum seekers were treated as seri-

ously as those who actually did the foul deeds, and several of the inﬂuencers have now found themselves behind bars.

One of them, company director Tyler Kay, who boasted that he would “categorically not be arrested” after taking to social media and posting vile anti-immigration comments, obviously misjudged the situation and is now serving 38 months in prison for his trouble.

Now there are usually two sides to every story, and there are legitimate concerns everywhere – including here in Ireland – regarding immigration policies. But no matter what

My hurling comeback (as a spectator)!

It’s Saturday evening as I write, shortly after I decided it was time to wash my car – as it was looking a bit under the weather.

And so I dug out the power washer that I hadn’t seen for a good few months, but when I went to connect it to my water supply, I found there was a bit missing; when I turned on the tap the water simply gushed harmlessly onto the ground.

I am, however, made of stern stuff, and decided to go ahead and wash it anyway. So, with a basin, a few cloths, and some fairy liquid, I set about my business – and am proud to say that after an hour of intensive labour, I declared that the job was done! The only negative was that the car was now looking even worse and dirtier than it was before I started.

To improve my slightly deﬂated humour, I then decided to go to see the senior hurling match between St Dominic’s and Tremane which was scheduled for 7 pm on our pitch up in Creggs.

Now I am the ﬁrst to admit that while I follow the senior inter-county hurling scene quite closely, I do not take the same interest in the local club hurling championships. It must be at least 10 or 15 years since I last attended a Roscommon club hurling game – a county ﬁnal that Athleague won, I think against Padraig Pearses – and I remember being astounded at the quality of the hurling at the time. I also remember saying to myself that I would from then on become a regular attendee at local hurling matches, but as that match was (I think) in 2007, I obviously didn’t follow through on my intentions.

However, just after seven o’clock on Saturday evening, I took my place behind the St Dominic’s goal, looking forward to a rip-roaring battle between two supposedly evenly matched teams.

Sadly for Tremane, they just didn’t get their game going at all, and as I left (a few minutes early so I would see the 4 x 400 women’s relay team

in the Olympics), the score was very much in St Dominic’s’ favour. So unless Tremane produced a Lazarus-like comeback in the last few minutes, the Knockcroghery men would have been worthy winners.

I have no idea what the result meant in terms of their respective future championship hopes, but from what I saw, St Dominic’s will be hard to beat. They swarmed around every ball like hungry bees, never gave the Tremane lads any time or space, and had a real good work ethic.

I have no doubt that Tremane, who have our club footballer Darren Gately playing up front for them, have a lot more to offer, but on Saturday evening they were certainly up against a superior force.

I did however enjoy the game, and it was great to see such a big crowd in Creggs at a hurling match. Hopefully it won’t be another 17 years before I get to another local game – by then I’ll be 90, so I had maybe better go a bit sooner!

those concerns are, violence, rioting, thuggery, and disorder are not the answers to the problem.

As Gardaí apparently anticipate some uniﬁed attempts at similar violence in Dublin, with the far-right element that are causing such destruction in the North of Ireland planning to join up with similarly-minded racists in the South, I applaud the manner in which the Brits have shown no mercy to those who have involved themselves in such behaviour across the water – and I hope our Government follows suit if anything untoward happens here.

More sporting highs and lows

It’s now Sunday evening as I write, and after spending a few hours at our granddaughter Poppy’s third birthday party (where we had a most enjoyable family get-together), with my revived interest in hurling I sat down to watch the AllIreland senior camogie ﬁnal, featuring roaring hot favourites Cork and a very brave and gallant Galway side.

Now I have no doubt that I am biased towards the ladies in maroon and white, but in my opinion the refereeing was atrocious. The number of obvious fouls that Cork committed and that were left unpunished was just simply ridiculous.

At the ﬁnal whistle, there was just a goal between the teams, and Galway contributed to their own downfall with three or four bad wides towards the end, but I can’t help feeling that the referee played a big part as well.

However, for sports quiz enthusiasts in the far distant future, there will surely be the following question – ‘Name the county that lost three senior All-Ireland ﬁnals in consecutive weeks’ – and sadly, Galway will be the answer. Because in case you forgot, the men and women footballers and now the camogie team have all been unable to bring home the trophies. I would love to think that it will all come right next year, but I have my doubts.

Before I leave sport and all that’s gone on in recent weeks, there is no doubt that the performance of our Olympics team in Paris has given a huge lift to our little nation.

I was amused by the experience of the Cork lads – modest gold medal winners Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy – who, as the world now knows, arrived back in Dublin and were going to take a bus down to Cork, until a Good Samaritan offered them a lift home in his car.

Anyway, Team Ireland certainly did us proud in an Olympics that was probably the best in every way of all time – here’s to Rio in four years time, when Ireland can once again punch way above its weight, and when one or both of the O’Rourke sisters might yet get that elusive Olympic medal!

That, of course, is if boxing hasn’t managed to get itself removed from the competition!

And ﬁnally…

In a country where weather has been a topic of conversation since time began (I wasn’t around then, but I’m sure I’m right), Sunday night’s spectacular thunder and lightning storm has to be right up there with the best of them.

As the sky was lit by some of the most amazing lightning ﬂashes, I was reminded of some of the outrageous scenes that one would see in the movies, particularly old westerns.

It shows once again that nature is such a powerful force, and whether it’s rain, wind, or lightning, when it really blows up, it’s time to watch out.

Funnily enough, when I was young I would fly under the bed until the storm passed. Now I am older (and wouldn’t fit under the bed), I find that I am no longer afraid of the lightning – and actually enjoyed Sunday night’s spectacular light show.

However, the rest of my family aren’t quite so enthusiastic, so for their sake I hope we don’t have any more nights like last Sunday night!

Hugh and Shauna Loftus, Patricia Monaghan, Patricia Loftus and Gerry Monaghan pictured during the recent Roscommon SFC rst round match between Michael Glaveys and St Brigid’s in Ballinlough. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Mayo Roscommon Hospice unveil plaque in memory of Ann

Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation’s inaugural Annual Memorial Mass took place last Friday in Swinford Church, Co Mayo. It was attended by many volunteers and support group members as well as family members of deceased volunteers.

Before the Mass, there was an unveiling of a plaque in memory of Ann Meehan. Ann, along with Cynthia Clampett, had the vision of opening a charity shop in Swinford and it became the ﬁrst of twelve Hospice shops to open in Mayo and Roscommon.

Tom Meehan, Ann’s husband of 54 years, said, “Ann was a mighty wom-

an and anything she set out to do, she achieved it”.

Ann’s daughters said, “Our mother was ahead of her time, a leader who lived to help people, enjoyed life, and was a people person, as well as a fundraiser extraordinaire. She was generous with her time, and caring, creative, and determined. She left a legacy in home and community, and achieved something wonderful and meaningful for the good of her community”.

Martina Jennings (CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation) said, “Remembering Ann Meehan in this way was very important to

the Foundation. Ann was a true entrepreneur, as well as a team player, who only ever wanted the best for her community.

“Along with all our volunteers she has left an indelible mark, as without our volunteers and support groups we wouldn’t have a community palliative care service, or a hospice in both Mayo and Roscommon. We will always honour the volunteers, founders, staff and directors that have gone before us, by ensuring we are building a service on the foundations that they laid, and future-prooﬁng this service for those that come after us”.

For further details, visit hospice.ie.

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

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

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

Road Reference Townland Closure duration Section of Closure Proposed Diversion

R368

Elphin to Strokestown

Lugboy Townland 3 months from 2nd September to 29th November 2024

LS-6030 Cregga/Clooncullan 3 months from 2nd September to 29th November 2024

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Greg O’Donnell Acting

Director of Services

Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services

Length of closure 600m. Closure Starting 450m south from the R368 Junction with L-1410 (Kiltrustan) and finishing 1050m from the same junction

Length of closure 150m. Closure starts at the Junction with R368 and finishing 150m from the junction

WESTWARD SCANIA

is the sole distributor of Scania products in the Republic of Ireland since 1976

Reporting to the Parts Manager, we are recruiting the following Parts

Department Adviser / Warehouse Operative

Dealing with Truck and Bus/Coach customers your duties will include;

• Identifying & Organising Parts for Workshop and Retail Customers.

• Picking, Packing & Invoicing of Scania Dealer orders.

• Dealing with phone enquiries from Retail Customers.

N5/N61/R369

• Ordering stock.

• Goods inwards & Stock Control.

o Checking & binning of Spare Parts.

o Inventory counts.

• Manage and process Spare Parts returns & Service Exchange Parts.

• General warehouse duties.

Requirements:

• PC literate.

• Self-motivated.

• Team player.

• Able to work on own initiative.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Excellent telephone manner.

• You pay close attention to detail.

• Driving & Forklift Licence an advantage.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Experience would be desirable, but if you have a knowledge of commercial vehicles and looking for a job which will o er excellent opportunities to progress, please forward your CV to:

P.J. Kelly, After Sales Parts Manager, Westward Scania. Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Or by e-mail to: pj.kelly@westwardscania.com

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday August 23rd, 2024.

Members of Ann Meehan’s family pictured with CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation Martina Jennings and Board Director Joanne Grehan.

Amelia, Ella and Fia Burke pictured at the recent Glenamaddy Summer Festival Family Fun Day. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Family Fun Day at Roscommon Races next Tuesday

The halfway stage of the current season at Roscommon Racecourse has passed, with racing returning on Tuesday, August 20th, for an all-ﬂat card which doubles up as the racecourse’s very popular ‘Family Day’. There is a real appetite for racing in the midlands and west at the moment, and the public are voting with their

feet. Roscommon Racecourse have been thrilled with the crowds all year, and are hoping for more of the same next week.

Ronan Whelan – one of the leading ﬂat riders in the country – was very complimentary when he spoke about the track last week.

“I do not know one rider who doesn’t like coming to Roscommon”, he said. “We get very well looked after, the weigh-room is one of the best in the country, and the track itself is top class”.

Ronan added, “I try and get out and either walk or have a run before racing, and the track is like a carpet. It takes plenty of racing, but you wouldn’t tell, as it rides very well and consistent.

“There are big crowds at every ﬁxture and it’s clear that people around Roscommon like their racing. Every winner is well received and it’s great to walk into a parade ring where the crowds are there to look at the horses. I can’t fault the place!”

Next week’s annual Family Day is a chance to bring all the young racing fans to Roscommon Racecourse to meet some of the very best sportspeople in Ireland! There will be lots of family entertainment throughout the evening, and a special family ticket option is available.

Many thanks to sponsors Quinn Bet, The Irish EBF, Murray Ambulance Services, Conor Cassidy Car Sales, Abbey House Coffee Bar, and the Cleary family. The best turned out prizes are sponsored by YK Signs Athleague.

Tickets/more info

Ticket offers are available online at roscommonracecourse.ie. Admission costs €15 for adults and €10 for OAP/students, plus the special family ticket for two adults and children (under sixteen) for just €20. There is a 10% discount when buying online at roscommonracecourse.ie.

To keep up to date with all Roscommon Racecourse’s news and lots more, follow on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram – #getintouch!

A list of remaining ﬁxtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on roscommonracecourse.ie. For enquiries, email contact@ roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288.

come for

Pictured at the Roscommon Races last week were Maria and Aoife Tully and Nicole Stoddart. Another meeting of Roscommon Races takes place next Tuesday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon Racecourse:

the racing, stay for the craic!

Frank Berry (JP McManus’ Racing Manager) and Dick O’Brien of Roscommon Racecourse pictured after Jeaniemacaroney won the Frenchpark Maiden Hurdle at Roscommon Races recently. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Residents invited to share information on Islands River

Residents of west Roscommon are being invited to share what they know about the Islands River, which straddles the Galway-Roscommon border and ﬂows through the village of Ballymoe before joining the main channel of the River Suck.

The Islands River is part of a demonstration subcatchment of the Waters of LIFE project – an EUfunded project trialling water quality solutions with local communities.

The project is hosting drop-in consultations in Williamstown Parish Hall on Wednesday, August 21st, and in the EK Digital Hub in Ballinlough on Thursday, August 22nd

Local knowledge gathered will feed into a catchment management plan for the area. Water quality solutions identiﬁed will be used to inﬂuence future national and EU policy.

There is an afternoon session (12.30 pm to 2.30 pm) and an evening session (6.30 pm to 8.30 pm) across the two days. No appointment is necessary and locals are welcome to

drop in and chat with their catchment scientist.

“We want to hear from people who live in the area and have something to say about its rivers,” says Is-

lands catchment scientist John Kelly. “Tell us about any water-related issues or changes you’ve seen over the years. Having those chats and drawing from

Please telephone: 090 66 30492 for further details Large range of Collagen

local expertise will really help us to review and update our approach.

“The people who live in the area are the ones who know its rivers best. We’re

also happy to share what we know so far about the issues and pressures that have been identiﬁed”.

The project was ﬁrst introduced in Galway and Roscommon at a public meetings in Ballymoe in September 2022. Since then, a desk study and local catchment assessment has been completed by the Local Authority Waters Programme to identify pressures and issues affecting local water bodies.

All participants will receive a booklet with a summary of water quality for their sub-catchment. Waters of LIFE will present a catchment management plan for the area at public meetings later in the year.

They are also looking to meet directly with local community groups. Interested groups are asked to email info@watersoﬂife. ie so a meeting can be arranged.

A full map of the Islands demonstration sub-catchment is available at watersoflife.ie/catchments/ islands.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is a long, ﬁbrous structural protein that is a major component of the extracellular matrix that provides support and functionality to most tissues and systems of the body. While dietary protein, in general, contributes to the growth of muscle and maintenance of muscle mass, collagen does all of this plus more, promoting bone health, immune system health and the healthy function of all vital organs. Collagen not only supports skin health promoting elasticity, but also helps build and repair all membranes throughout the body, including those of the mouth and digestive system, the blood vessels and the respiratory tract.

Research shows that our natural production of collagen starts to decline in early adulthood1 2

Studies on the beneﬁts of Collagen

Skin Health - A study in the Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals reports a signiﬁcant reduction in the depth in wrinkles along with improved skin hydration and elasticity in several women who drank a mixture containing various vitamins, minerals, hydrolyzed collagen, and hyaluronic acid 8

A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that consuming dietary collagen not only resulted in healthier skin and greater degree of collagen deposition and repair, but also slows down the process that damage collagen in skin tissue9

Nowadays, people consume much less collagen in their diets. This simply comes down to time, many people do not cook homemade bone broths, stews or soups. These slow cooking methods allow for collagen to be released from bones into the cooking liquid.

Collagen Supplementation

To gain all the amazing beneﬁts from collagen supplementation the following speciﬁcations are important:

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Collagen in its natural state is a long, ﬁbrous structural protein that can be difﬁcult to breakdown and digest. Amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) join together by peptide bonds to create a protein. Peptide bonds are formed by a biochemical reaction that extracts a water molecule as it joins the amino acids together. When these proteins are hydrolyzed they are reduced to a smaller chain length and a are known as peptides. The hydrolysis of collagen increases its functional properties such as antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, and allows for maximum absorbability and bioavailability 3 Collagen Types

A broad spectrum of collagen ensures whole body beneﬁts

There are 6 major collagen types (I, II, III, IV, V and X)

Types of Collagen: I – Skin Elasticity; II – Joints & Immune System; III – Skin, Blood Vessels, Vital Organs; IV – Cell Health & Growth; V – Skin, Tendons & Immune System; X - Joints, Bones, Muscles & Hair.

Collagen Sources

There are many sources of Collagen for example: Bovine Collagen – Type I, II, III; Marine Collagen – Type I & III 4; Chicken Collagen – Type II 5; Eggshell Membrane – Type I, V & X 6 7 .

It is vital to ensure these sources are clean and sustainable. Clean ingredients will have virtually no ﬂavour or aroma Collagen Digesting Enzymes

The action of proteolytic enzymes such as papain and pepsin ensure that maximum absorption and bioavailability are achieved 3

Immune Health – Collagen has been associated in recent studies with stimulation of immune system modulators of the inﬂammatory response. Not only does collagen type II inform the immune system to cease its attack on similar molecules in the joints, but overall healthy collagen status has been reported to improve the integrity of the columnar epithelial cells of the respiratory and digestive systems10, which support, reducing the likelihood that they will improperly trigger or respond with and inﬂammatory response.

Body Fat – One study concluded that a long-term therapy with orally administered collagen peptides leads to an improvement of cellulite and has a positive impact on skin health. The study reported clear improvement of the skin appearance in women suffering from moderate cellulite with regular ingestion of collagen peptides over a period of 6 months11

Much research suggests that collagen plays a vital roll in the deposition of body fat.

Bone Health - Eggshell powder due to its over-all mineral content has been reported to increase bone mineral density in people and animals with osteoporosis6

Available in-store in Au Naturel; Roscommon in Unﬂavoured powder, Pink Lemonade ﬂavoured powder, single serve sticks & in capsules! Contact Susan or Siobhan at Au Naturel, Goff Street on 0906630492.

References 1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0047637418300435 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1606623/ 3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6891674/ 4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4278207/ 5. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-714/collagen-type-ii-native 6. https://www.researchgate.net/pro le/Anthony-Kingori/publication/279557572_A_Review_of_the_uses_of_poultry_ eggshells_and_shell_membranes/links/596d04ce458515d9265fc0e5/A-Review-of-the-uses-of-poultry-eggshells-andshell-membranes.pdf 7. https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=biotech.2009.254.258 8. https://www.jmnn.org/article.asp?issn=2278-1870;year=2015;volume=4;issue=1;spage=47;epage=53;aulast=B orumand 9.

Local Property Tax – Public Consultation Process

NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION OF SETTING A LOCAL ADJUSTMENT FACTOR

The Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012 (as amended), makes speci c provision that elected members of a local authority may pass a formal resolution to vary the basic rate of the Local Property Tax for their administrative area by a percentage known as the local adjustment factor. At the meeting set by Roscommon County Council to consider this matter, the members may set a local adjustment factor within the range of +/- 15% of the basic rate, or, may decide not to adjust the basic rate.

Roscommon County Council will meet on 23 September, 2024 to consider the setting of a local adjustment factor.

Roscommon County Council welcomes written submissions from the public on this matter speci cally covering the potential e ects of varying the basic rate of the Local Property Tax on businesses, individuals and on local authority services.

Submissions must be received by 17 September, 2024 and be sent to:

Local Property Tax Consultation

Roscommon County Council

Áras an Chontae Roscommon or LPT@roscommoncoco.ie

Signed: Shane Tiernan Chief Executive

Dated: 15 August, 2024

Tour of Ardcarne Old Graveyard

There will be a tour given by Mary B Timoney (archaeologist) of Ardcarne Old Graveyard on Saturday, August 17th 2024 at 11 am. This tour will highlight the different designs of the memorials dating from the 17th to the 20th century. Admission is free. Booking essential. Please email ardcarneparishgraveyards@gmail.com if you wish to reserve a place.

Derrane Graveyard Committee AGM

The AGM of the Derrane Graveyard Committee will be held at Derrane Resource Centre (F42 WK60) at 8.30 pm on Tuesday, September 17th. The meeting will elect a new committee and discuss plans for the maintenance and upkeep of the graveyard. All those who have family members interred in Derrane Graveyard are welcome to attend.

Annual Kilcroan Cemetery Mass

The annual cemetery Mass will take place in Kilcroan Cemetery, Ballymoe on this Sunday, August 18th, at 3 pm. A collection will be held on the day to help towards the maintenance of the cemetery. Your support would be greatly appreciated. The Kilcroan Cemetery Committee would also like to sincerely thank everyone who turned up on Sunday last to clean the cemetery in preparation for the Mass. A special thanks to the young people who did Trojan work on the day; they are a credit to their families. We would kindly ask that anyone cleaning their own graves take away the wreaths or old ﬂowers from the cemetery. The next cleanup will be on Sunday, September 8th 2024 at 10 am.

Strokestown Heritage Walk

Connecting with our Heritage – The buildings that de ne our streets

Tuesday 20th August, 4pm - 6pm

Meet at: Percy French Hotel, Bridge Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42 A996

Come and join us for a chat and a stroll in Strokestown exploring heritage buildings along the way. Led by Sheridan Woods Architects + Urban Planners, the walk will explore the buildings in the town, how they are currently used and identify how regeneration of the built heritage might bene t the town. The focus will be on the buildings of Strokestown, learning from their past, understanding their present, and looking to their future.

Share your stories with us about buildings in Strokestown and bring them to life. The event will include a walking tour of Strokestown and if you have old photographs, we would be delighted if you could bring them along too so we can bring together ideas which may lead to heritage-led regeneration opportunities in the town. This event is the perfect opportunity to meet, connect and converse with other people who are passionate about the heritage and future of Strokestown.

The tour starts at 4pm with a cuppa at the Percy French Hotel.

Local winners at All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil

It was an exciting and successful week of competitions, concerts, céilithe, sessions and more at the recent Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford. There were a number of winners from County Roscommon (see below).

Over 600,000 people thronged the streets of Wexford over the course of nine days, while tens of thousands of people attended the special opening by President Michael D Higgins.

Every year, the Fleadh provides a cultural meeting place for those who carry the great traditions of Irish music, song and dance in their hearts.

Up to 20,000 performers played, sang, and danced at the All-Ireland Fleadh. The standards were high

and the music more than lived up to the expectations of judges, who had a very difﬁcult job choosing winners for each category and competition.

A number of local performers were among the winners at this year’s Fleadh. Clodagh Ní Dháilaigh (CCÉ, An Ceideach, Ros Comáin) came second in the ‘foinn mhalla feadóg/whistle slow airs’ category for ages 15 to 18. Gemma Ní Chathasaigh (CCÉ, Áth Luain, Ros Comáin) came second in the ‘amhráin Bhéarla (mná)/English singing (ladies)’ category for ages 12 to 15. Celine Ní Shionnain (CCÉ, Ail Finn, Ros Comáin) came third in the over-18 ‘portaireacht/lilting’ category. Solomon

O’Gliasáin (CCÉ, Ail Finn, Ros Comáin) came third in the ‘comhrá Gaeilge/Irish conversation’ category. Henry Gunn (CCÉ, Ail Finn, Ros Comáin) came second in the under-12 ‘scéalaíocht/ storytelling’ category. Oinseann Mac Píarais (CCÉ, Baile Ros Comáin, Ros Comáin) came third in the over-18 ‘scéalaíocht/ storytelling’ category.

Wexford has been chosen to host the 2025 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from the 3rd to the 10th of August. Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann announced that the bid by the town to host the Fleadh for the second year in a row has been successful.

For all the results and further details on the Fleadh and competitions, visit ﬂeadhcheoil.ie.

Free schoolbooks ease back-to-school burden – Dolan

Free schoolbooks will ease the ﬁnancial pressures on parents of primary and secondary school students, a Fine Gael senator has said.

Senator Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael spokesperson for Education and Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science) said the scheme, which has been extended this year to include Junior Cycle students in secondary schools, illustrates Fine Gael’s commitment to affordable education.

“Parents and guardians can breathe a sigh of relief ahead of the return to school. There is now one less worry and expense with back-to-school

shopping. Families right across the country are not only saving money, but also time that would otherwise be spent hunting down every item on the booklist, as schools are now fully funded to provide all necessary materials ahead of the new school year.

“Schoolbooks, copybooks, and where possible some classroomrelated resources, are to be made available to 775,000 students and pupils in secondary, primary, and special schools nationwide.

“It’s a clear demonstration of Fine Gael’s commitment to every child in Ireland reaching their potential. Free schoolbooks help on the educational

journey, especially the transition from primary to secondary school, when new sets of books are so expensive, and takes the pressure off parents.

“This initiative is more than just ﬁnancial relief – it’s about ensuring every child, irrespective of their background, has equal access to the educational resources they need. And I acknowledge the incredible efforts of our teaching staff to roll out the expansion to Junior Cert students.

“With that in mind, it’s incumbent on the Minister for Education to now consider rolling out the free schoolbook provision to include Senior Cycle students”, Senator Dolan added.

Senator Aisling Dolan

Pictured is Clodagh Ní Dháilaigh (CCÉ, An Ceideach, Ros Comáin), who came second in the ‘foinn mhalla feadóg/whistle slow airs’ category for ages 15 to 18 at the 2024 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford. Pic: Anna Allen Photography, Mullingar

Tulsk History Society

This weekend, the Tulsk History Society will be unveiling four wall plaques as part of Heritage Week in the county.

Four esteemed natives of the parish will be honoured in the picnic area of the village – D-Day hero Mike Rogers, author and poet Mary Kelly Gorges, artist Roderic O’Conor, and traditional musician Tom McHale.

There is an open invite for the event, and anyone with an interest in the history and heritage of Tulsk parish is welcome and asked to come along. Teas and coffees will be served after the formal unveiling at 12.30 pm on Sunday next, August 18th

In other news, the latest edition of the Tulsk Morning Howl is out and avail-

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Rebellious women

Roosky

Dear Editor,

The article in the Roscommon People of the 9th of August re: two strong rebellious women, written by Alannah Ita Healy, which mentioned Edna O’Brien and Sinead O’Connor, is an example of excellent comment.

The article was written with balance and professionalism and did not indulge in the usual myths and falsehoods that surround these two outstanding women. The most common misinformation trotted out concerning Edna O’Brien is that her book ‘The Country Girls’ was burned by the ‘outraged clergy’. This is an untruth that writers and journalists want to be true, as it projects an image that suits their narrative of an uncouth rural priest burning books. There has been research done into this myth by Professor John Horgan of DCU and Fr Tom Stack, and not one scintilla of evidence has been found to substantiate this claim.

The writer of the article, Ms Healy, is to be admired for not recycling untruths that some readers want to believe.

Yours sincerely,

Donnchadh Mac Aodha

is D-Day veteran Mike

able to pick up in the usual local outlets, with many interesting bits and pieces featuring Tulsk in the newspapers from times gone by.

James’ retrospective art exhibition in Athleague on Sunday

As part of National Heritage Week 2024, local author and artist James M Moran is displaying a retrospective art exhibition entitled ‘The world is what you make it’ in Athleague Community Centre on Sunday, August 18th from 4 pm.

This exhibition includes original paintings, collages and installations which look at snapshots of our lives and the impact of our existence. All welcome.

Mass for the Holy Souls in Curraghboy

An Evening of Prayer of Intercession for our faithfully departed will take place from 7 pm to 10 pm on Friday, August 23rd, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre in Curraghboy, Athlone.

The Evening of Prayer will be hosted by Aidan Bond and the Holy Souls Ministry/Crusade.

Confessions will be available from 7 pm to 9 pm, and Holy Mass will commence at 9 pm with celebrant Fr Joseph Okere. After Mass, there will be individual Blessings with the First Class Relic of St Nicholas of Tolentino (Patron of the Holy Souls).

There will also be refreshments afterwards and all are most welcome to attend.

TIME: 9am- 1pm 9am - 1pm 9am – 1pm 9am – 1pm Full Day

Pictured

Rogers, who will

among the four Tulsk natives honoured this weekend by Tulsk History Society, as part of Heritage Week 2024.

Four Roads supporters Abbie Kelly, Lucy Morris and Lauren and Zoe Kelly pictured at the recent Roscommon SHC match between Roscommon Gaels and Four Roads in Lisnamult. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Crosby welcomes major local tourism boost

Cllr Tom Crosby has welcomed recent funding of €84,000 to progress plans to link the Royal Canal Greenway which terminates in Clondra village in Co Longford to Tarmonbarry village across the bridge in Co Roscommon, and then on to connect with Rooskey village. The funding has been secured

Castlecoote

Tidy Towns’

duck race, biodiversity and heritage walk

Come celebrate Water Heritage Day during National Heritage Week with Castlecoote Tidy Towns! We’re hosting two enjoyable family events on Sunday, the 25th of August, starting at 2.30 pm.

The first event will be a biodiversity and heritage walk guided by historian Mary Leyden, which will travel along the Castlecoote Loop. The walk will start at 2.30 pm, meeting at St Ciaran’s Community Centre. For children, there will be a Water Treasure Trail and the Ladybug Way.

This walk will offer the opportunity to discover the River Suck, walk along lanes and fields to the Derryhippo River, cross the river via a bridge into the forestry near beautiful Stoneham’s Lake with its ancient Crannog, and continue to Black’s Lake, then back to the picturesque village of Castlecoote. Come along and enjoy a relaxing walk through the beautiful rural landscape of the area!

Thank you to the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) and Roscommon County Council Heritage Office for supporting this event.

The walk will loop around and arrive in time for the second event of the day – the annual duck race, taking place by the river bank in the village beside Castlecoote Stores. The race will commence at 4.30 pm. Ducks cost €5 each and are available in Castlecoote Stores and pubs in the area. Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and last duck home! For the children, there will be a ‘duck fancy dress’ competition and face-painting. So come along and enjoy all the fun at the River Suck with delicious burgers and sausages sponsored by Castlecoote Stores in aid of Tidy Towns!

through the Just Transition Fund.

Over two years ago, Cllr Crosby submitted a proposal on behalf of Tarmonbarry Development Association to Waterways Ireland which called for the two villages to be connected, i.e. Clondra on the Royal Canal and Tarmonbarry

on the River Shannon. In his proposal, Cllr Crosby submitted that the connection be made across the River Shannon, upgrading the existing weir on the river to provide a new boardwalk that would enable cyclists and walkers safely cross the river to the harbour area in Tarmonbarry, and then possibly

using the old (Bord na Mona) rail track near Tarmonbarry village to Cloonshannagh and on to Rooskey. (The old railtrack is now redundant due to the closing down of peat harvesting by Bord na Mona).

Cllr Crosby believes that this development will be a major boost to tourism in

the Shannonside villages of Tarmonbarry and Rooskey, connecting a walk and cycleway from Dublin City centre along the Royal Canal.

Cllr Crosby is also proposing to further develop this major tourism infrastructure project on to the nearby Slieve Bawn mountain and into Strokestown. Cllr Tom Crosby

Lough Ree RNLI volunteers mark charity’s 200th anniversary

On Thursday, August 1st, Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) representatives from Lough Ree RNLI participated in a special photo moment – ‘One Moment for One Crew’ – to create a photographic record of those involved with the life-saving charity in this, its 200th anniversary year.

The charity, which was founded in 1824, asked its volunteers and staff from around Ireland and the UK

to take a photo of themselves, their crew or their team, at as close to 18:24 on 1.8.24 as possible. Whether lifeguards on a beach, lifeboat crew at a station, fundraisers at an event, or volunteers in a museum – all involved with the charity have been encouraged to submit a photo of themselves representing their RNLI role at wherever they may be on this date and time.

Representatives including lifeboat crews/fundraisers/

shop volunteers/staff from RNLI communities in the midlands have taken part. The photos have been uploaded to an online portal and will be used to create a montage image.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its volunteer crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives –this equates to an average of two lives saved every day for 200 years.

‘Helping turn empty houses into homes’ – Murphy

Senator Eugene Murphy has said that the launch of the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation loan (LAPR) shows that Fianna Fáil is determined to help people turn vacant houses into vibrant homes.

The LAPR, which is an expansion of the Local Authority Home Loan, supports both the purchase and renovation of homes which are eligible under the existing Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

both purchase and renovation works.

Senator Murphy said, “The LAPR is hugely important as with it, a first-time buyer who wishes to turn a vacant or derelict property into a new home can now receive a loan to fund

“The LAPR works along with the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, and is proving highly popular in Roscommon since its recent launch.

“We all know it can be difficult to get finance for purchasing vacant or derelict homes

and this loan is for first-time buyers, and ‘fresh start applicants’, who have been unable to get funding from commercial lenders. The LAPR is another option for prospective home-owners to make their home-buying journey that bit easier and more affordable.

“Since coming into govern-

ment in 2020, reviving derelict and vacant homes has been a key ambition for Fianna Fáil”.

Eligibility for the LAPR is subject to the applicant meeting the existing local authority mortgage lending eligibility criteria and the project meeting scheme lending criteria.

The introduction of the LAPR

significantly expands the types and numbers of homes eligible under current local authority mortgage lending rules. Previously, only homes which were habitable were eligible for the Local Authority Home Loan and the loan was only available for the purchase of the property, not renovation.

Representatives from Lough Ree RNLI recently participated in a special photo moment – ‘One Moment for One Crew’ – to create a photographic record of those involved with the life-saving charity in this, its 200th anniversary year.

Roscommon Show prepares for a spectacular 52nd annual event

The event, to be held at Hannon’s grounds (adjoining Hannon’s Hotel) on the Athlone Road, promises to be packed with fun, entertainment, and competition for all ages.

The Roscommon Agricultural Show is set to delight and entertain the community once again as it gears up for its 52nd annual version this Saturday, 17th of August 2024.

The showgrounds will open their gates to exhibitors at 8 am, with all exhibits required to be in place by 9 am.

From then on, a bustling day of activities and judging across various classes will commence, showcasing the best

of Roscommon’s agricultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit.

In addition to the classes featuring animals, as always there will be a great variety of family-friendly competitions, with prizes to be won in categories such as art and crafts, etc.

Judging timetable

The day’s events will unfold as follows: 10 am: The horse section kicks off the day, with the in-hand pony classes at the

same time, displaying the region’s ﬁnest equestrian talent.

10.15 am: Attention will shift to the crops, cookery, arts & crafts sections in the marquee, where the creative and culinary skills of locals (and visitors) will be on full display.

11.30 am: The cattle & sheep section will see farmers competing for top honours, highlighting the quality and diversity of livestock in the region.

1 pm: The much-loved dog show be-

gins, featuring a variety of breeds and delighting spectators with their adorable antics. Simultaneously, the riding classes (ponies) will also take place, showcasing equestrian skills.

2.30 pm: The fowl section will be judged, adding to the variety of livestock on show.

4 pm: The event will culminate with the highly anticipated All-Ireland ﬁnal of the Irish draught yearling ﬁlly, a highlight for enthusiasts and breeders alike.

Members of the Roscommon Agricultural Show Committee pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Well attended launch whets appetite for ‘Show 2024’

EMMETT CORCORAN



The ofﬁcial launch of the Roscommon Agricultural Show took place on Wednesday, 7th of August 2024, at Hannon’s Hotel. The launch was addressed by a number of speakers, including Show President Christy Tully, who welcomed all guests on the night. During his address, Mr Tully thanked committee members, sponsors, volunteers, Roscommon County Council, Local Enterprise Board, the public, Gardaí and Civil Defence, and all who help to make

the annual event such a success. He acknowledged the support of the Irish Shows Association (ISA) and Horse Sport Ireland (HSI). Show Chairperson Damien Hannon also welcomed all guests present and like Mr Tully he too acknowledged the support of all who help make the show happen.

The launch event was well attended, drawing organisers, exhibitors, and sponsors, as well as several local politicians, including Cllr Anthony Waldron, Cllr Larry Brennan, and Senator Eugene Murphy.

Their presence underscored the importance of the show to the local community and its role in promoting the agricultural sector in the region.

Roscommon IFA chairperson Pat Leonard complimented the Roscommon Show committee and wished this year’s event every success.

A minute’s silence was observed in memory of committee member Paddy Beirne, who passed away recently (RIP).

As anticipation builds for this year’s event, organisers are conﬁ-

dent that the 52nd annual Roscommon Agricultural Show will be a day to remember, ﬁlled with the sights, sounds, and spirit of rural Ireland. Whether you’re a competitor, a local resident, or a visitor, the show promises a full day of enjoyment and celebration of all things agricultural.

Make sure to mark your calendars and join in the festivities for a day that celebrates the very best of Roscommon’s community and culture.

See roscommonagriculturalshow. ie for more.

Pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch (held in Hannon’s Hotel) were (l-r) Damien Hannon, Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show; David Devane, ISA; Claudia Gormley, Fr Christy McCormack, Ann O’Malley, ISA; and Christy Tully, President, Roscommon Agricultural Show. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Will judging the sheep be an Olympian task?

 EMMETT CORCORAN

At the launch of the Roscommon Agricultural Show, the well-known head of the sheep section, Pat Naughton kept his remarks short but sweet when he took to his feet and addressed the crowd. Making a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Olympics, Mr Naughton noted that the judges would hope to have an easier job judging the sheep classes than some of the judges at the Olympics had!

Continuing his remarks, Pat praised the involvement of the Roscommon Sheep Breeders Association and emphasised his pride in all that has been achieved in recent years.

The William Tully Memorial Cup will be presented for the best Galway Sheep of the Show. According to Mr Naughton, of considerable note this year will be the exotic sheep class which is a new addition to the show.

“It is a class for spotty and different sheep and exotic breeds”, he said, quipping that there’ll be no “normal sheep” in this class.

Mr Naughton also noted the inclusion this year of a

special class for young handlers. He explained that the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in this class would be judged on the knowledge and capabilities of the young sheep handlers and that the qual-

ity of the animal would not be in consideration. You don’t have to ﬁnish in the top three of this class to bring home a prize and all entrants will be presented with a rosette in recogni-

tion of their participation. Concluding his remarks, Mr Naughton paid tribute to Cllr Anthony Waldron whom he said had been very supportive of the sheep section over the years.

A day for all ages!

Beyond the competitive spirit, the show is a community gathering, with something for everyone to enjoy.

From the intricate arts and crafts displays to the mouth-watering cookery exhibits, there is much to admire and inspire.

The dog show, always a crowd favourite, adds a layer of charm and warmth to the event, drawing smiles from both young and old alike.

The show offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich agricultural heritage of Roscommon, with an array of livestock classes and exhibitions that demonstrate the region’s long-standing commitment to farming excellence.

Pat Naughton, John Mangan and Pat Leonard pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Karen and Emily Berzina with their dog

Teddy pictured at last year’s Roscommon Agricultural Show in Roscommon Town. Pic: Kieran Croghan

ISA representatives and politicians commend Show Committee

The launch of the Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show held at Hannon Hotel’s last week was attended by a number of representatives from the Irish Shows Association (ISA) as well as several public representatives and many show sponsors.

Speaking at the launch, Fr Christy McCormack (of the ISA) said: “The importance of sponsors, exhibitors, government agencies, the organisers and provision of showgrounds must be acknowledged. Without these elements, there would be no show”.

Fr McCormack was joined by Ann O’Malley, David Devane and Claudia Gormley of the ISA on the night.

Public reps

Senator Eugene Murphy was called upon by Show Chairperson Damian Hannon to address the attendees, and so too were Councillors Anthony Waldron and Larry Brennan.

Senator Murphy noted he had always been an advocate for increased government investment in rural shows and he reiterated his continued support for the Roscommon Show and

for all the shows across the region that bring such life and joy to local communities.

Cllr Brennan wished the committee good luck on the day and acknowledged all the hard work that is done behind the scenes.

Cllr Waldron spoke of his advocacy in seeking sustainable markets for Roscommon sheep breeds and products, especially sheep ﬂeeces that are currently going to waste.

Support of sponsors

Nicola Featherstone was present from AIB Roscommon. She said AIB is delighted to be a key sponsor of the show and added that she was looking forward to seeing her own family’s sheep exhibited at this year’s big event.

Nicola noted that AIB’s recognition of the importance of agriculture as an industry is underscored by its continued commitment to supporting agricultural shows across the country.

Also speaking at the recent launch were sponsors P Burke of Sherry Fitzgerald P Burke Auctioneers in Roscommon town and Gerry Farrell, the General Manager of Roscommon Livestock Mart.

Both men echoed the delight of earlier speakers at being in a position to be sponsors of this year’s event and expressed their gratitude for the contribution of the current committee and their predecessors to the ongoing success of the show.

was the chairperson of the show when they (P Burke, and Roscommon Mart) both started being sponsors. They reiterated their continued support for the show into the future.

Long service

The recent Roscommon

Show launch ended with a special tribute being paid to Joe Kelly and Bernie Gately for their long service to the Roscommon Show over the years.

Both men were presented with small gifts in recognition of their contribution to the show over many years.

Both men paid tribute to the late Paddy

who

Walsh

Gerry Farrell, Joe Kelly and James Co ey pictured at the Roscommon Agricultural Show launch which was held in Hannon’s Hotel on Wednesday of last week. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Senator Eugene Murphy pictured with Christy Tully, President, Roscommon Agricultural Show; and Damien Hannon, Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show at the Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Eamon Duke, Anthony Burke and Anthony Duke pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Noel Hanlon, Vice-Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show; Christy Tully, President, Roscommon Agricultural Show; and Damien Hannon, Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Show to feature prestigious Irish Draught Broodmare Class

The Roscommon Agricultural Show, taking place this Saturday, August 17th, is set to offer something special for those with a keen interest in equine pursuits.

Among the numerous attractions, a highlight of the horse section this year will be the Irish Draught Broodmare class. This class is one of 15 classes in the horse section on the day.

Class 1, sponsored by Horse Sport Ireland (HSI), offers a prize fund of €1,500, making it one of the most lucrative competitions at the show. The class is open to mares that are either stinted or have a foal at foot, with a stud certiﬁcate required for those stinted by an Irish Draught stallion. This competition serves as both a celebration of the breed and an essential platform for breeders to showcase the quality of their stock.

Head of the Horses Section Christy Tully commented on the importance

Croghan of this class, stating: “The Irish Draught Broodmare class is always a highlight of the show.

“Another class of note in the horse section that is presented by Roscommon Show and Hannon’s

Hotel is the Roscommon Irish Draught Yearling Filly All-Ireland Championship Final which attracts a signiﬁcant prize fund of €2000.

“This All-Ireland Final is run through the Irish

Shows Association and follows 26 qualiﬁer shows from Schull to Westport and everywhere in between”.

With the Roscommon Agricultural Show fast approaching, anticipation is

building for what promises to be a memorable event. The horse section of the show will be closely observed and will provide a remarkable showcase of the ﬁnest in Irish equine breeding.

Damien Hannon, Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show, pictured with Pat Leonard and Pat Naughton at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Oliver Flanagan, Joe Kelly and Evelyn Killeen-McCrann pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

P Burke (centre) from Sherry Fitzgerald pictured with Damien Hannon (right), Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show; and Christy Tully (left), President, Roscommon Agricultural Show at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran

aaron@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie

Exciting Arts & Crafts and Art & Photography section

 EMMETT CORCORAN

The upcoming Roscommon Agricultural Show promises to be an exciting day for all, with the Arts and Crafts section drawing particular attention. Addressing the recent show launch, former councillor Kathleen Shanagher gave some updates on this year’s competitions.

Ms Shanagher noted that the Arts and Crafts section remains a vibrant part of the show, catering to a wide range of participants, from junior artists to adults. She also acknowledged the generous support of this year’s main sponsors for the section, NexVentur Recruitment and Treacy Décor.

This year’s competitions span multiple categories, with entries open for both primary and post-primary school students as well as for adults.

Among the highlights in the junior section are classes for the best handmade item suitable for a pet, the best clay creation, and the best homemade jewellery. The younger entrants at the show can also compete in arts classes, including best imaginative picture, best landscape, and best ‘still life’,

to name but a few.

For the entrants up to 18-years-old categories include best landscape, portrait, still life, collage, and lino print, allowing young artists to showcase their creativity in various mediums.

In the adult section, the competition is equally diverse. Classes include the best hand-knit item for a

GAA supporter, best knitted or crocheted bag, best cross-stitch article, and even the best novelty tea cosy. For the more traditional artists, categories such as best landscape, still life, portrait, and best ceramic piece provide an opportunity to exhibit their skills.

Photography enthusiasts will also ﬁnd a range

Annual Dog Show certain to be a highlight this Saturday

The Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show will once again host its popular Dog Show, sponsored by All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, Roscommon. The event is set to begin at 1 pm sharp on Saturday, with entries opening from 11.30 am. Dog owners and enthusiasts are reminded that all dogs must be kept on a lead and under control at all times, and they should avoid the cattle, horse, pony, and sheep rings. If dogs display aggressive behaviour their owners will be asked to remove them from the ring and/or showgrounds.

With an entry fee of €4 per class, participants will compete for trophies, rosettes, and prizes across various categories. The competition includes classes for different breeds and ages, from puppies aged 6 to 12 months (Classes D1 and D2) to speciﬁc breed categories such as Pointer/Setter, Retriever, Spaniel, Jack Russell, and Terrier.

Additionally, there are classes for utility, toy, and working/pastoral dogs, as well as mixed breed categories.

Special free handling classes for girls and boys under 12, in honour of the late Annette Tully, will also be featured, alongside handling competitions for ladies and gents.

Novelty categories such as ‘Best Groomed Dog,’ ‘Best Dog in Fancy Dress,’ and ‘Most Obedient/Best Trick’ are expected to be crowd favourites.

The day will culminate in the Champion Dog competition, with a prize fund of €300 generously sponsored by Christy Tully, Noel Hanlon, and All Creatures Veterinary Clinic.

The champion will be awarded the Annette Tully & Irene Hanlon Perpetual Trophy, and the Marie Mullen Memorial Trophy, with prizes also awarded to the reserve champion and runner-ups. The show promises to be a highlight for dog lovers and a great day out for the whole family.

of classes to enter. In the adult photography section, competitors can showcase their best portrait, landscape, action shot, animal kingdom photo, historical building, and the most interesting pollinator scene, a class sponsored by Kathleen Shanagher. The junior photography section, open to those under 16, features categories such as best

landscape, portrait, pet picture, sunrise or sunset, and best black and white photo.

With so many classes on offer and a few new changes to look forward to, the Arts and Crafts section at this year’s Roscommon Agricultural Show is set to be a signiﬁcant attraction, bringing together a diverse array of talent.

Pictured at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel were (l-r) Caroline Duke, Gerry Farrell, Roscommon Mart; Kathleen Shanagher, Tracey Hanlon and Siobhan McGovern. Pic: Kieran Croghan

 EMMETT CORCORAN

Caitlin Gallagher and Ultan Gallagher with their baby Saoirse pictured with Niamh and Ella May Daly and their dog, Nala during last year’s Roscommon Agricultural Show in Roscommon Town. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Extensive range of cattle classes at Roscommon Agricultural Show

 EMMETT CORCORAN

The Roscommon Agricultural Show this year is set to feature an impressive array of around 30 classes for both pedigree and nonpedigree cattle, showcasing the best of Ireland’s bovine breeds.

James Gleeson, head of the cattle section, addressed the recent show launch in Hannon’s Hotel, where he highlighted the wide range of classes that will be exhibited.

He also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the sponsors and committee members who made these events possible. Mr Gleeson also thanked the ISA (Irish Shows Association) and the Department of Agricul-

ture for their support. Pedigree classes

Among the pedigree cattle classes, the spotlight will be on several key categories. In ring one, the pedigree Limousin classes, sponsored by the Irish Limousin Society, will include competitions such as the best pedigree male and female calves born in 2024, as well as classes for calves born between September and December 2023. These classes will allow breeders to showcase their ﬁnest young stock.

The pedigree Shorthorn classes will feature competitions for the best Shorthorn heifers born in 2022, 2023, and 2024, with the overall champion

Shorthorn for 2024 being named after these entrants. Meanwhile, pedigree Hereford enthusiasts can look forward to the class for the best pedigree Hereford bull or heifer calf born after September 2023.

The pedigree Angus classes, supported by the Irish Angus Cattle Society, will feature a range of competitions, including those for the best pedigree Angus cow and heifer, with particular interest in the categories for calves born between August 2023 and the present.

Non-pedigree classes and signiﬁcant prize funds

The non-pedigree classes in ring two will also attract substantial interest, with categories for Charolais, Belgian Blue, and Limousin breeds, among others. These classes offer a platform for non-pedigree breeders to compete for prizes, with categories including the best nonpedigree bull and heifer

calves born in 2024.

Special attention will be given to the all-breed classes for non-pedigree heifers and bullocks of any age, with a strong competitive ﬁeld expected.

Of particular note this year are two major competitions within the cattle section that offer significant prize funds. The Aldi Irish Angus Trad Na hÉireann competition boasts a prize fund of €3,000, with €1,000 awarded to the top entry. Additionally, the Aldi Irish Angus Bull Calf Championship final, run in association with ABP and the Irish Angus Society, offers an impressive total prize fund of €31,500 across three classes. These competitions are expected to draw top-quality entries from across the country and qualifiers will go on to compete for the prize funds on offer at the Iverk Show on August 24th. Sponsors and support

The success of the cattle section at the Roscom-

mon Agricultural Show is made possible through the generous support of a number of sponsors. Their contributions ensure that the show continues to be one of the leading such annual events in the country.

As the Roscommon Agricultural Show approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a showcase of the very best in Irish cattle breeding, with a wide array of classes offering something for everyone with an interest in the industry.

The Overall Champion, chosen from the 1st prize winners, will be eligible to receive the Seamus Duignan Memorial Cup. The overall Champion Angus winner will receive the Willie Stroker Memorial Cup. The overall champion of Roscommon Show is sponsored by Kepak, and the company also sponsors the reserve Champion of Roscommon Show.

There was a good attendance at the Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Majella McDermott (left) and Nicola Featherstone (right) from AIB pictured with James Gleeson at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon Ploughing Association hosts awards night

Roscommon Ploughing Association held their awards night recently to honour those who won the various respective classes at the County Championships, held in Ballinaheglish on May 19th

The overall category winners will now go on to represent County Roscommon in this year’s All-Ireland Ploughing Championships which take place from the 17th to the 19th of September in Ratheniska, County Laois.

There was a great attendance in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett, with music on the night by Billy Garvan. Roscommon Ploughing chairperson Ger Grehan paid tribute to all the competitors who had showcased their skill on the day.

In addition to the other category winners, Dylan Beirne, the U-21 competition ﬁrst place winner, received the prestigious Charlie Spellman memorial trophy in recognition of the highest attained marks. Dylan also received the Christy & Thomas Neilan perpetual cup in recognition of the best ‘Opening and Furrow’ in a ploughed plot on the day.

Dylan competed in several other ploughing competitions throughout the year in an attempt to gain additional knowledge and perfect his skill.

The committee were fortunate that one of their nov-

ice competitors, Conor Furey from Knockcroghery, received coaching from Damien Ahern from East Cork. Damien will be representing Ireland next month in the European Vintage Competitions. Committee chairperson Ger Grehan congratulated Dylan Beirne (and all other award recipients on the night) and also wished Damien Ahern the very best of luck in the forthcoming competitions.

The ploughing committee chairperson noted that the 2024 event had been the association’s 30th. There was a large presence from the National Ploughing Association (NPA) at the Roscommon event, including the world’s two supreme ploughing champions, Eamonn Tracey from Carlow and John Whelan from Wexford, who spent their time freely giving competitors guidance on how to perfect their technique.

Mr Grehan wished Eamonn and John good luck in their respective competitions at World and European level.

A number of presentations were made on the night.

The main sponsor of the ploughing, Mr Sean Mulryan, was presented with a painting of their family’s thatched cottage located in Pake, Ballinaheglish. The painting was produced by Ballinaheglish native, Alanna Hoare, the youngest member of Roscommon

Ploughing Association. Mr Mulryan was presented with the painting by Ballinaheglish natives Paddy Beirne and John Kearney.

Committee chairperson Ger Grehan said it was very evident how delighted the people of Ballinaheglish were to have secured a generous main sponsor in Sean Mulyran, who is a native of Ballinaheglish himself.

Roscommon Ploughing Association also made a presentation on the night to the site owner, Paddy Beirne from Ballinaheglish, who the chairperson thanked for generously providing the event site. Presentations were also made to Martina Beirne, Roscommon NPA Director and County Treasurer, who won the ‘Person of the Year’ award with outstanding dedication to the County Ploughing Championships, and also to Patricia Leonard of Runnacoders, Ballinaheglish, in recognition of their contribution to litter management on the day of the event, and in her role as treasurer of the local national school (Runnamoat), who received the receipts from the sale of the ploughing programme.

On behalf of the County Ploughing Association, chairperson Ger Grehan expressed appreciation to the Ballinaheglish community for the very warm welcome given to this year’s event.

Sponsors thanked at recent presentation night

At the Roscommon Ploughing Association’s recent presentation night in Castleplunkett, committee treasurer and Roscommon’s NPA Director, Martina Beirne paid tribute to the loyal and faithful sponsors who have enabled County Roscommon Ploughing Association to ensure that the county will be well rep-

resented at the All-Ireland Ploughing Championships in September.

“They have invariably responded to our requests for support and after providing generous funding and product… I urge all of you to reciprocate their gestures by placing business with them wherever possible”.

Martina expressed “heartfelt thanks” to Ballinaheglish native Sean Mulryan, who came on board as main sponsor. His support, she said, “certainly helped to ensure we were in the position to extend our activities which has resulted in greater beneﬁts to the wider community”. She added: “The survival of

Roscommon Ploughing Association is dependant on the kind support of our local businesses and volunteers”. On behalf of the Roscommon Ploughing Association, Martina Beirne wished Roscommon Agricultural Show committee every success with its annual event this Saturday, August 17th

Roscommon Ploughing Association

chairperson Ger Grehan (left) presenting Dylan Beirne with the Charlie Spellman memorial trophy, the award for best overall results on the day, at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

John Hanley (left) presenting the award to Dylan Beirne, the U-21 category winner, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

John Hanley (left) presenting the award to Sean Ward, winner of 2-furrow vintage class category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Martina Beirne (left), Queen of the Plough Farmerette class, presenting the award to Pauline Lavin (right), winner of the ladies loy digging category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Michael Lambert (left) presenting the award to James Co ey, winner of Horse Ploughing category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Michael Lambert (left) presenting the Lambert Perpetual Cup to Paddy Beirne, winner of the 3-furrow category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Padraig Nolan (left) presenting the Paddy Finnegan Memorial Cup to John Hanley, winner of the 2-furrow category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Padraig Nolan (left) presenting the Queen of the Plough award to Martina Beirne, winner of the Farmerette class, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Roscommon Ploughing Association

secretary Patrick Lambert presenting the award to John Hanley, winner of the 2-furrow conventional class, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Roscommon Ploughing Championship host Paddy Beirne (left) receiving a presentation from Gerry Browne (right) during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Padraig Nolan (left) presenting the award to Pauline Lavin, winner in the ladies loy digging category, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

The Roscommon Ploughing Championship’s main sponsor, Sean Mulryan (centre) receiving a special painting of his home house in Ballinaheglish from Paddy Beirne (left) and John Kearney (right) during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show

during the recent Roscommon

Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Roscommon team for National Championships

The following competitors will represent County Roscommon this September at the National Ploughing Championships, where they will be hoping to add to the county’s roll of honour: Katie Hanley, Creggs, in Novice Ploughing; Dylan Beirne, Ballinaheglish, in U-21 Conven-

tional; John Hanley, Creggs, in 2-Furrow Junior Conventional; Séan Ward, Creagh, Ballinasloe, in Vintage 2-Furrow Mounted; Paddy Beirne, Ballinaheglish, in 3-Furrow Junior; James Coffey, Lecarrow, in Horse Ploughing; and Pauline Lavin, Strokestown, in Ladies Loy Digging.

At the recent presentation night in Castleplunkett, County Roscommon Ploughing Association chairperson Ger Grehan wished all those who will be representing Roscommon in next month’s All-Ireland ﬁnals the very best of luck.

Thank you from Rosco on Ploughing A ociation

Roscommon Ploughing Association would like to thank Paddy Beirne and family for hosting the 2024 County Ploughing Championships. We also wish to acknowledge the great support received from local people, including on stewarding. A special thank you to our sponsors (listed)

We would also like to thank Roscommon Show Committee for all the help and support given to the Roscommon Ploughing Association

• Sean Mulryan

• Roscommon Co-Op Livestock Mart

• Roscommon County Council, Roscommon Tourism & Fáilte Ireland

• Dermot Hughes Cars, Roscommon

• Roscommon Credit Union

• Maurice Gannon Agri, Keelogues, Glenamaddy

• Maurice Gannon, Gannon Transport, Keelogues, Glenamaddy

• All Creatures Veterinary Clinic & Supplies

• Ryan Steel, Strokestown

• Parklawn Tree Services, Tremane

• Cunnane Insurance, Main St, Castlerea

• Burke West Ltd, Clashaganny

• McSharry Brothers, Plant Sales

• Kepak, Athleague

• Padraig Mannion (starters and alternators)

• Castlerea Co-Op Mart

• Bank of Ireland, Main St, Roscommon

• Michael Geraghty, Castlecoote

• FBD, Roscommon

• Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey

• A & E Hospitality, Dalton’s Bar, Fuerty

• Engine Spares, Lanesboro

• Sweeney Oil, Racecourse Rd, Roscommon

• D & E McHugh

• Enda Curley, Creggs

• Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd, Auctioneer

• Roscommon IFA

• Kevin Henry & Billy Lavin, Castlerea Veterinary Clinic

• Declan Conboy/Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett

• AIB, Roscommon Town

• Walsh’s, Racecourse Rd, Roscommon

• Malone Farm Machinery

• Ward’s Hackney & Minibus Service, Castlerea

• Joe Coyle, Agri Contractor, Kilteevan

• Shane Brennan, Agri Contractor, Kilteevan

• Andrew Reynolds, Reynolds Catering/Roscommon Mart

• Anthony Beirne’s Bar, Strokestown

• Jetwash International, Carrigallen

• Kevin King, Stonepark, Roscommon

• Tommie Concannon, Agri Contractor, Ballinaheglish

• Sean Doyle Windows, Roscommon

• Roscommon Agricultural & Industrial Show

• John and Bernadette Kearney, Bush eld

• Des Hunt Agri Contractor, Tulsk

• Michael Fitzmaurice, TD

• Hanly Motors, Lanesboro Rd, Roscommon

• Alan Neilan, Rock eld

• Christy and Thomas Neilan, Castlecoote

• Paul Moylan, Tulsk Construction

• Tommy Joe Hennigan Plant Hire

• James Trimble, Plant Glass

• JJ Ward & Sons Ltd, T/A Topline Ward’s

• Westward Scania, Strokestown

• John & Jacinta Hanley, Kilbegnet, Creggs

• Johnston Farm Machinery, Longford

• Conor Cassidy Cars, Lanesboro Rd, Roscommon

• Sean Ward, Ballinasloe

• Tom Tighe, Strokestown

• Lidan Designs, Lanesboro Rd, Roscommon

• Cllr Gareth Scahill

• KK Engineering, Racecourse Rd, Roscommon

• Naughton Farm Machinery, Roscommon

• Eddie Naughton, Roscommon

• Chadwick’s, Lanesboro Rd, Roscommon

• Timothy’s Londis, Abbeytown, Roscommon

• John Keane & Sons, Roscommon

• Castlemine Farm Shop, Roscommon

• Padraig Hanley, motorway lubricants

• John Murray Ltd, Agri Merchants, Ballinasloe

• Farrell’s, Castlecoote

• Emo Filling Station, Roscommon

• Ros Veterinary Products/Supplies/Colm Tully

• Mary Conry-Candler, Ballintubber

• J Horan Construction Ltd, Roscommon

• Keith Revins Tyres

• Beirne & Beattie Engineering, Lanesboro Rd

• Michael Rodgers, Agri Contractor, Cloverhill

• Councillor Anthony Waldron

• Tama Ireland, Cork

• Paddy Beirne, Farragher

• Marty Hegarty, Farragher

• Garvey’s Bar, Ballintubber

• Elphin Mart

• Shane Co ey Agri Supplier, Lecarrow

• Ivan Connaughton, Auctioneer, Athleague

• Alan Gannon, Gannon Bros, Creggs

• Elphin Vets, Emlagh Lodge/Diagnostics

• Brendan Rudden, Agri Contractor

• Irish Farm Accounts Co-Operative Society Ltd

• Midland Animal Collections, Scramogue

• Percy Hanly, Hanly’s Spar, Strokestown

• Noel & Moira Moran, Fuerty

• Roscommon Tyre Centre, Circular Rd

• Castle Street Tyres, Roscommon

• Pat Naughton, Stonepark

• LF Engineering, Clondra

• Kelly Auctioneers, Elphin

• Cathal O’Brien, Auctioneer

• Jim Mannion, Mannion Insurance

• Michael McGreevy, Four Mile House

• Stephen Connor Carpentry, Derrane Rd

• David Campbell Haulage, Lanesboro Rd

• Les Petites Tartes, Athleague

• Flanagan’s Bar, Castleplunkett

• BGM Metalworks, Roscommon

• Claire Kerrane, Sinn Féin TD

• Keane’s Centra, Athleague

• Kevin Fleming, KF Autos

• Enda Kelly, Electrical Contractor, Kinnity

• Anchor Lifting Services Ltd, Roscommon

• PJ Fallon & Son, Roscommon Town

• Tim Fox, Roxboro, Roscommon PRODUCT SPONSORSHIP

• Ward’s Quarry, Athleague

• Molloy’s Artisan Bakery, Roscommon

• Coachman’s Inn/Mike Moran

• Laragan/Hanly’s Quarry

• Niall Murray Tool Hire

• Falzol Oil, Sligo

• Top Oil, Lanesboro Rd

• Brian Murray Stone, Scrine

• Roadstone, Castlemine Quarry, Four Mile House

• Greene’s, Ahascragh & Guilka

• Liam Kevney, Glinsk

• Aurivo, Athleague

• Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon

• Cloonycolgan Community Centre

• Barna Waste

• Michael John Earley

• Casey’s/Supermac’s, Roscommon TRADE STANDS

• Damien Traynor, Ballygar

• Michael Lambert Tractors, Rock eld

• Nick’s Ices, Roscommon

• JF Hanley, Rock eld

• French Fresh Crépes

• Kevin Igoe, Castlerea

• Corrib Oil, Roscommon

• O’Mahony’s Fun Fair

Roscommon Ploughing Association treasurer Martina Beirne presenting a bunch of owers to Ann Mulryan from Ballinaheglish

Ploughing

Roscommon Ploughing Association chairperson

Ger Grehan (left) presenting the ‘Dedication to the Ploughing’ award 2024 to treasurer Martina Beirne at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Gerry Browne (left) presenting the award for rst place in novice class to Jacinta Hanley, accepting on behalf of her daughter Katie, during the recent Roscommon Ploughing Association presentation night in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett.

Thursday 19th September: Continental Weanling Show and Sale

Monday 23rd September: Continental Bullock Show and Sale

Thursday 26th September: Continental Heifer Show and Sale and Belgian Blue Weanling Show and Sale

Monday 30th September: AA Bullock Show and Sale

Thursday 3rd October: AA Heifer Show and Sale

PLEASE NOTE BULLOCK SALE WILL RESUME ON MONDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

Best wishes to Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show

There were almost 400 lots presented for sale on Thursday last, with not much change in prices or trade from previous weeks and a good attendance of buyers, both present and online.

Bullocks topped out at €2080, heifers hit €1940, while dry cows made up to €2620. Demand for weanlings continues to grow, with bulls peaking at €4.29 a kilo, while the heifer weanlings hit €4.40 a kilo. Calves and runners reported a good clearance with a variance in prices, depending on quality.

Bullocks, sample prices: Lim 495kgs €1600, Ch 440kgs €1540, Lim 430kgs €1530, Lim 380kgs €1450, AA 440kgs €1440, Ch 530kgs €1650, AA 500kgs €1540, BBx 585kgs €1970, Lim 565kgs €1840, Lim 580kgs €1740, Lim 635kgs €1830, Lim 695kgs €2080, and AA 655kgs €1800.

Heifers, sample prices: BBx 385kgs €1550, Lim 395kgs €1310, Ch 370kgs €1280, Chx 490kgs €1500, Lim 495kgs €1500, AA 480kgs €1360, Lim 630kgs €1940, Ch 605kgs €1900, Ch 565kgs €1830, Ch 580kgs €1800, and Lim 565kgs €1770.

Cattle: There was a large entry of stock on o er at last Friday’s special sale of bullocks (August 9th). There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside, with online bidders also active.

Bullocks fetched an average of €2.87 per kilo up to €3.76 per kilo, and there was a small entry of dry cows, who made an average of €2.14 per kilo up to €2.86 per kilo.

Dry cows, sample prices: LMX -725kg -€2070 -€2.86 per kg, LMX- 765kg- €1960€2.56 per kg, LMX -650kg- €1720- €2.65 per kg, BBX -620kg -€1550- €2.50 per kg, LMX575kg- €1150- €2.00 per kg, and FR-550kg -€1030- €1.87 per kg.

Bullocks, sample prices: CHX-850kg- €2460€2.89 per kg, CHX- 740kg- €2290 - €3.09 per kg, CHX-715kg- €2220- €3.10 per kg, LMX- 685kg- €2220- €3.24 per kg, CHX625kg- €1990- €3.18 per kg, LMX -580kg - €1880-€3.24 per kg, LMX- 530kg- €1680€3.17 per kg, LMX- 460kg- €1530- €3.33 per kg, LMX- 420kg- €1410- €3.36 per kg, and LMX- 385kg- €1250- €3.25 per kg. Weanlings

There was a smaller entry of quality weanlings on o er at Tuesday evening’s sale (August 13th), with a strong trade across the board.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.01 per kilo up to €3.67 per kilo, while heifer weanlings made from an average of €2.96 per kilo up to €3.90. There was a very good attendance of customers at the

Dry cows, sample prices: AA 935kgs €2450, BBx 890kgs €2400, Limx 790kgs €2340, Ch 780kgs €2240, Ch 1100kgs €2620, PTX 625kgs €1550, Lim 515kgs €1510, and Her 715kgs €1720.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1300€1890, and calves/runners made from 260-€890.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: AAx 275kgs €1180, Ch 275kgs €1130, BBx 290kgs €1130, Ch 305kgs €1280, Lim 360kgs €1400, Lim 380kgs €1440, BBx 350kgs €1120, Ch 370kgs €1210, BBx 400kgs €1320, Ch 260kgs €820, and Ch 315kgs €1030.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 275kgs €1210, Ch 275kgs €1000, Ch 250kgs €950, Ch 270kgs €840, Lim 340kgs €1110, Lim 355kgs €1120, Lim 325kgs €1070, and AA 270kgs €720.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart every Thursday, with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am, with three rings in operation.

ringside, with online buyers also active. The next bullock sale is on Tuesday, August 27th

Bull weanlings, sample prices: LM- 525 kg -€1,700 -€3.24 per kg, LMX- 500 kg- €1,650€3.30 per kg, LM-495 kg- €1,670 -€3.37 per kg, LM -435 kg- €1,460- €3.36 per kg, LM -395 kg- €1,400 -€3.54 per kg, CHX -375 kg -€1,280 -€3.41 per kg, LMX- 355 kg -€1,220 -€3.44 per kg, and LMX-335 kg-€1170- €3.49 per kg,

Heifer weanlings, sample prices: BBX385kg -€1,500- €3.90 per kg, LM -315kg€1,210-€3.84 per kg, LMX-290kg- €980€3.38 per kg, LMX- 260kg- €780- €3.00 per kg, and CHX- 220kg- €640 -€2.91 per kg. Sheep

There was a large number of sheep on o er on Wednesday, August 14th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €174 while stag ewes topped out at €220. The next sale of lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, August 21st. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Spring lambs, sample prices: 60.8kgs -€174- €2.86 per kg, 60kgs -€172- €2.87 per kg, 58kgs -€172- €2.97 per kg, 52kgs -€167- €3.21 per kg, 51.2kgs-€168-€3.28 per kg, 48kgs-€165 -€3.44 per kg, 47.3kgs€157- €3.32 per kg, 44.4 kgs- €147-€3.31 per kg, 41.3 kgs-€144-€3.49 per kg, and 38kgs€132-€3.47 per kg.

of Breeding Ewes

Damien Hannon, Chairperson, Roscommon Agricultural Show pictured addressing attendees at the Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Readers respond to publication of ‘Friends for Life’ advertisements on abortion

Leitrim Village, Co Leitrim

Dear Editor,

I listened with great interest to the discussions on Shannonside Radio on Wednesday 7th & Thursday 8th of August, regarding your publication of the ‘Friends for Life’ pro-life adverts.

I fully support and commend you on the publication of same and am opposed to the current ‘cancel culture’ of those who are opposed to the freedom of speech of people whose views they do not agree with.

The calls from the complainants on other advertisers to withdraw their adverts from your paper is a form of censorship and smacks of McCarthyism and has no place in a democracy or Republic.

Campaigners for the provision and extension of abortion services and facilities conveniently fail to recognise that a large proportion of the electorate did not vote for these provisions in 2018.

In fact, in Galway/Roscommon constituency (your primary circulation area) returned the 4th largest ‘NO’ vote in the country (42.78% where the national average was 33.6%) i.e., 4th out of 39 constituencies.

It behoves regional newspapers and radio

stations to be mindful of the varying views and values within their catchment area.

I believe that in publishing the adverts in question you have reflected these varying opinions fairly and have shown balance in your editorial decisions.

Yours sincerely, Ciarán Tracey Roosky

Dear Editor,

I am a regular reader of your truthful and very ‘fact dependable’ newspaper. I listened to both sides of the discussion on Shannonside Radio about the pro-life advert carried by the Roscommon People

I cannot understand why the advert could be regarded in any way as misleading or scare-mongering. The reporting, recording, or advertising of any unpleasant event can be distasteful, but that is the nature of things.

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to say a life is taken by abortion. Remember, abortion was a crime and people campaigned to legalise it. Now other people want to appeal this legislation and save unborn children from losing their lives or having their lives terminated, or whatever

terminology you want to use. I quite understand the revolution of some of your readers with the wording of the advert. After all, it is a rather revolting type of ‘health care’.

You are to be admired for not being judgemental, and not acting as an unofficial censor but for instead printing the advert, warts and all. Well done. Continue your even-handed presentation. Yours sincerely, Donnchadh Mac Aodha

Dear Editor,

There was an ad placed by ‘Friends for Life’ on page 9 of the Roscommon People on the 26th of July. This ‘advertisement’ serves no purpose other than to incite anger towards our doctors, who provide necessary reproductive health services.

Even though it is flagged as ADVERTISEMENT, it is neither advertising goods, services, vacancies nor an event.

While I accept that the Roscommon People is a paper that wishes to accommodate all views, I feel that it only serves to shame those who need to access such vital services.

Yours sincerely, Georgina Barrow

Dear Editor, I would like to commend you for sharing all and any advertisements which come your way. In a democracy we should be allowed to read all and any advertisements and articles. We do not need people dictating to us that we should only see what THEY see as appropriate. There are are too many such people – who think they know everything – now getting a platform. I always think of the book ‘Animal Farm’ when I hear of these type of censorship tactics! Yours sincerely, Angela Cunningham

Dear Editor,

I commend the editorial decision with regard to the ‘Friends for Life’ advert featured in your paper which has moved people to discuss, debate, agree, disagree and engage with the emotive and concerning issues surrounding abortion in Ireland.

Most reasonable people, regardless of their personal views, welcome the space and opportunity to voice their opinion and participate in the democratic process of freedom of expression. Yours sincerely, Siobhán F. McElgunn

Why we have published controversial advertisements

< PAUL HEALY, Editor, Roscommon People

The Roscommon People has been accepting and publishing very strongly worded anti-abortion advertisements for a few years now. We have received criticism at times for doing so. Some readers have made their displeasure known to us very firmly over the years. Last week, our publishing of these advertisements attracted quite a degree of media interest, nationally and locally.

I want to make it very clear at the outset that we would never wish to cause upset to any of our readers. We are a community newspaper which is proud of our record of support for local causes and local people. But we do not want to engage in censorship, and we do embrace freedom of speech. And the controversy that has arisen over the past week or so – over our continued publishing of what are undoubtedly provocative adverts –is about freedom of speech, about a free press, about the right of people to have their views heard, even if those views are distasteful to other people.

Background on this highly sensitive issue is hardly required, but suffice to say that the ‘abortion question’ has been by far the most divisive social issue in this country over the past 50 years.

Over that half-century or so, as anyone who has watched, listened to or engaged in media debates on the abortion issue will confirm, this topic has been explosively emotive. But it can be very legitimately argued that the decades-long battle is over, in that the people have spoken.

While the so-called pro-life advocates remain a sizeable minority in society, the simple

The referendum outcome has not stopped (some) pro-life campaigners from continuing to protest over the availability of abortion in Ireland.

Small numbers of protestors occasionally hold a rally in Roscommon. The ‘Roscommon For Life’ group remains active, attending Pro-Life rallies in Dublin and calling on the Government to address abortion rates post-the referendum.

A few years ago, a local campaigning group began booking advertising space with the Roscommon People newspaper from time to time.

The group have used that advertising space to promote their strong views on the abortion issue. I actually agree with much of the criticism of the content of the advertisements; I have often considered the wording (and graphics) to be crude, provocative, inflammatory even. But I have still been willing to publish the ‘Friends for Life’ submissions, on the basis of freedom of expression. This debate has always been marked by strong, emotive and often extremely uncompromising opinions.

In publishing these adverts, occasionally with some reservation, the Roscommon People has been motivated by wanting to embrace freedom of speech. This is about freedom of expression ... about people being allowed to express opinions in print without being censored.

Of course, as a respected community newspaper, we have certain responsibilities. We are sensitive to the anger of some readers who have been in touch on this issue. We commit to continue to fact-check the content of any advertisements we receive from ‘Friends for Life’ – and (obviously) to be mindful of

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

Digital storymap event in Creggs

An ongoing project of creating a digital storymap of the Creggs area will be outlined at an event in the Heritage Centre, Creggs, at 8 pm on Monday night, August 19th, as part of Heritage Week 2024.

All are welcome to the event, where project coordinator Zena Hoctor will outline how funding from a Heritage Council grant is

being used to create a digital storymap of the local area, which will feature information on areas of interest around the region on a digital storymap as well as podcasts and videos about the local area.

Earlier this year, Creggs Rural Development was successful in securing grant aid from the Heritage Council for a project to

bring the history and heritage of the local area alive in digital format.

Three podcasts were recorded recently by Sally Anne Barrett in the Heritage Centre, focusing on Parnell in Creggs, the O’Sullivan Beare Walk, and the old tradition of the rambling house in the Kilbegnet area. Three videos are also being worked

on, covering the topics of the streetscape of the village, ironworks in the Creggs area, and biodiversity in the area, and more information will also be available on these on the night.The digital storymap was worked upon in conjunction with County Galway Heritage Officer Marie Mannion and also features the expertise of

Christy Cunniffe, who, along with Zena Hoctor, worked on the Creggs Heritage Audit of 2018. All are welcome to this free event, taking place on Monday, August 19th, at 8 pm in the CS Parnell Heritage Centre, Creggs. This project has been funded under the Heritage Council Community Grants Scheme 2024.

Talk exploring the Tribes of Uí Maine Project

A historical talk exploring the tribes of the medieval kingdom of Uí Maine of Hy Many and the surnames that emerged from the territory in South Roscommon and East Galway will be hosted at Athleague Community Centre this Sunday (August 18th) at 7.30 pm.

Presented as part of National Heritage Week, the talk, entitled Tribes of Uí Maine Project, will be given by Pat Glennon, an Athleague native now living in England.

The talk will launch the new Tribes of Uí Maine Project on

Family Tree DNA, in which he will explore how Y-DNA can be used in conjunction with traditional documentary sources to recover aspects of the past long since forgotten.

“When we think of heritage, we often think of buildings, culture and place, but few people realise how much heritage is wrapped up in our DNA,” says Pat.

The first part of the talk will use insights from the Glennon Y-DNA Project, which Pat has administered for the past two years, to show how a single re-

gional surname can be tracked through the ages from clan origins to the dispersal across the two counties at the time of the Cromwellian Transplantations in the mid-17th century.

“The talk will then broaden to examine the various Tribes of Uí Maine and the surnames which emerged from them,” adds Pat.

“Uí Maine was a medieval kingdom that spanned East Galway, South Roscommon, and the Clare and Offaly borderlands. Most people will have heard of O’Kelly and

O’Madden country, but fewer will have heard of tribes such as the Sogain, from which the Mannions and Wards emerged, or the territory of Maenmagh, where the Naughtons and Lallys were once chiefs.

“The Project will aim to reconnect members with their genetic heritage and enhance our understanding of the medieval kingdom of Uí Maine and its constituent tribes”.

The talk will be given at two locations to make it accessible to those north and south of the

territory. The first will be in Athleague Community Centre this Sunday (August 18th) at 7.30 pm while Pat will then present his findings at Ballinasloe Library on Tuesday (August 20th) at 6 pm, the latter in conjunction with the launch of Ballinasloe’s Art and Heritage Exhibition.

For those interested in testing and joining the Project, a number of free DNA kits will be available at the events, thanks to sponsorship from Family Tree DNA and several kind donors.

New artistic collaboration for Roscommon Arts Centre

Roscommon Arts Centre is partnering with the UCD Conway Institution on an exciting new project, which will see a tapestry constructed from fabrics contributed by a collection of different women. Ahead of the upcoming collaborative event on September 7th, the centre is inviting women to bring a piece of cloth that means something to them and tell their story and connection with it.

On the day, each story will be written down and each fabric will be photographed and represented in a large-scale tapestry, hand-woven by the project artist Lorna Donlon. The resulting tapestry will be part of a ‘Cut From The Same Cloth’ exhibition, which is to be displayed in five venues around the country in 2025, including Roscommon Arts Centre. Participants can bring any fabric, which may have personal meaning to them – from a child’s first piece of knitting to a family heirloom.

The event will take place from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, September 7th. Admission is free and bookings can be made through the box office of Roscommon Arts Centre on 090 6625 824. Teas, coffees and a light lunch will be provided on the day.

The morning will welcome women from the community, biomedical research scientists from UCD Conway Institute, a current or former patient involved in helping health researchers, and textile artist Lorna Donlon.

Lorna is currently the UCD College of Science artist-inresidence. The UCD Conway Institute in Dublin has 450 biomedical researchers studying how diseases such as cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease and arthritis arise, how to diagnose them, and how best to treat them.

For more details on the upcoming collaborative project, visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

Eamon de Valera pictured at the unveiling of the Parnell Monument in Creggs in December 1946.

Pictured is Pat Glennon, who will be delivering a historical talk exploring the tribes of the medieval kingdom of Uí Maine of Hy Many at Athleague Community Centre this Sunday.

Finbar Feely from Feelystone, who mounted the bronze sculpture titled ‘The Gift’, pictured with John O’Driscoll, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Strokestown Park & The National Famine Museum, and sculptor Brendan O’Neill with his wife, Susan, after the unveiling of the sculpture which commemorates the generous aid provided by the Choctaw Nation to Ireland during the Famine. Pic: Brian Farrell

GOING OUT

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were Pat Hannon, Rose Hannon, Ben Stroud and Jess Hannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were David Hughes and John Callaghan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were Brian Groarke and Padraig Nolan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were Deirdre, Michael and Grainne Nevin. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were Noreen and Karen Whyte. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, were Ciara O’Dea and Paul Smith. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured are (l-r) Anthony Flaherty from Connolly’s Red Mills (sponsor) with Veronica Spicer (owner), Philip Enright (jockey), Sara Flavin, Hogan Beirne and Edward O’Grady (owner and trainer) after their horse Housemartin won the Connolly’s Red Mills Handicap Hurdle at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Sponsor of the best turned out horse at the Roscommon Races on Tuesday, August 6th, was P&G Cards. Pictured is Robbie McConn (centre) from Roscommon Racecourse with Gerry Naughton, P&G Cards; and Colm Hayden, CEO of P&G Cards. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The property CAN BE SOLD IN LOTS subject to market interest

Lot 1 – the entire

Lot 2 – 3 b/ residence standing on approx 1 acre (lake view house)

Lot 3 – prime agricultural lands containing approx 38 acres

This stunning two-storey residence standing on approx1,800 sqft featuring three spacious bedrooms, providing ample space for family living. The residence is meticulously maintained and exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Heated via OFCH, it also boasts an impressive B3 BER, ensuring energy efﬁciency and comfort throughout the year.

This property is in turn-key condition and ready for immediate occupancy.

The farm is equipped with an array of outbuildings, enhancing its functionality and appeal.

The yard includes:

• A 2-bay slatted shed with lay back, ensuring efﬁcient and comfortable livestock housing.

• A 3-bay dry shed, providing ample space for storage and other agricultural uses.

• A 4-bay storage shed, offering extensive capacity for equipment and supplies.

• A well-constructed cattle crush and pen,

This property is located in the renowned farming district of Kilglass, Co. Roscommon. This outstanding farm offers top-quality land laid out in well-maintained paddocks, ideal for a variety of farming endeavours

LEGALS: MARK CONNELLAN, SOLICITOR, LONGFORD - (043) 334 6440

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact Cathal on 086 1409158

Amanda McDermott

Own Centre

Funshin and Leha, Creggs, Co. Galway.

Lands c. 70.42 acres For Sale By Private Treaty

The lands are laid out in divisions as set out hereunder:

Auctioneers & Estate Agents

Main Street, Ballygar. Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664

Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472 moranandco.ie

St. Brendan’s, Ballygar, Co. Galway

Exclusive 4 Bed. Two Storey NEW TO MARKET

Funshin c. 18.93 acres of farmlands laid out in two divisions c. 10.85 acres and c. 8.38 acres. The lands are well located and have extensive road frontage. There is a mains water supply to both divisions.

Leha c. 13.07 hectares of bog, c. 51.49 acres of farmlands and turbary laid out in two divisions c. 11.71 acres of lands and c. 39.78 acres comprising c. 26.71 acres of lands with a small shed and crush thereon which has electricity and a private well supplying water to the lands.

The property is convenient to Creggs, Ballygar and Glenamaddy. It is being offered for sale in one or more lots. Inspection is recommended.

Spacious family home c. 228 sq. mts plus finished attic c. 72 sq. m ts Excellent level of accommodation. Double garage. Great site. Convenient to Ballygar. Commuting distance to a number of towns Viewing highly recommended Full details from David Moran

Full details from David Moran

Stunning bungalow residence new to market with Remax Team Earley

This week, Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley proudly presents this beautifully renovated two-bedroomed house, located at 6 Castle Park, Castle Street, Roscommon Town. This exquisite home has been thoughtfully updated to combine modern comforts with classic charm, and has a BER of C3. The house features triple-glazed windows and a new composite door, ensuring energy efficiency and a quiet interior. Double-glazed patio sliding doors open onto a newly-done patio area with paving slabs and artificial grass. Inside, the living room boasts a new electric

fireplace with digital and manual controls, complemented by a stunning marble mantlepiece. For those who prefer a traditional open fire, the chimney remains in place. All rooms and the hallway have been fitted with new wooden floors, with the front bedroom receiving new carpet. The kitchen is a chef’s delight; fully tiled with new kitchen units. It features solid wood units, an overhead electric cooker hood with lighting and fan, and a counter breakfast table at the end of the countertop. The kitchen is also equipped with new wall sockets, USB ports, and TV sockets,

making it both functional and modern. The electrics and plumbing have been recently updated, including a brand new oil heating system with a new tank, oil burner, and radiators in each room and hallway. The hot press has been fitted with a new A-rated family-size cylinder and new internal slatted shelving and doors. A three-switch control system allows for water to be heated by electricity or oil, providing flexibility and efficiency. The bathroom has been completely renovated with new tiles on the walls and floor, wired for an electric shaver, mirror lighting, and an overhead

heater fan. The attic has been insulated, adding to the home’s energy efficiency.

Safety has been a priority, with new smoke fire detectors and carbon monoxide smoke vents installed throughout the house. The house has also been freshly painted inside and outside. The back extension is dry-lined and plumbed for a washing machine, with extra sockets and switches, providing a perfect utility area. An outside tap adds to the convenience of maintaining the new patio and artificial grass area.

This stunning home at 6 Castle Park, Castle Street, Roscommon Town, is

perfect for those seeking modern amenities with the option of traditional comforts. Contact Remax Team Earley today to schedule a viewing and make this dream home yours – this property must be viewed to be fully appreciated and viewing is strictly by appointment only.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.

Beautifully renovated two-bedroomed house, located at 6 Castle Park, Castle Street, Roscommon Town.

Classifieds

 ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor).

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

If you WANT to stop gambling ... and REMAIN stopped ... you CAN! GAMBLERS

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and ues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone: 087 2798704

Advertise with us to have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week!

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

● Groundworks

● Renovations

● Chimney CCTV Inspections

● Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

 FARM REPAIR SHOP

– Roscommon/Lanesboro area. Tel 087 2755738.

 100 BAGS OF TURF FOR SALE at €4 each. Kiltullagh/ Ballinlough area. Tel. 087 7195759.

 FUEL FOR SALE: 10’ x 6’ trailer loads and bags for sale. Tel 087-2798704.

 FOR SALE: Good quality black turf. Tel. 086 7219331.

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING &

HYPNOTHERAPY

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

FUEL FOR SALE FOR SALE

 FOR SALE: Contents of house. Tel. 087 9657933 or 090 6633084.

 FOR SALE: 10’ x 6’ Steel Tipping Trailer, Mold Plough, Viking Fertiliser Shaker, New Holland 940 Square Baler. Tel. 087 7733181.

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

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

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

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

FENCING/GATES

 FOR SALE: 3-piece-suite, perfect condition. First o er secures. Tel. 087 9657933 or 090 6633084.

 For Sale: Burger food van as new. Tel 086 2650994.

WANTED

 FILL/RUBBLE WANTED: Needed to ll up a low area for a foundation. Can be very rough. Ideally located near the Fairymount/ Moyne area. Contact: James 086 7784030.

MAN AVAILABLE

to cut lawns and hedges, power washing of houses/ slatted sheds/driveways. Drain unblocking and cleaning. Gutter cleaning. Tel. 086 101 8237

Send your Classiﬁed advertisement to advertising@

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Beagh (Brabazon), Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

I hereby apply to the above authority, on behalf of Noble Tree Services, for planning permission for retention of change of use of agricultural yard including sheds, storage containers and apron to use associated with Noble Tree Services business (tree and hedge cutting, wood shredding and chipping) to include all associated site works at the above location.

The 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Ruane Survey, Design and Planning Ltd. Phone: (087) 8188596. www.oliverruane.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Barry McNama, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the following development:

To construct 2 bay agricultural storage shed to provide slatted livestock area with underground storage tank and dry bedding area and provide concrete apron. Development to include improvements to existing agricultural entrance including all ancillary site works necessary to complete the development at Mullaun Td., Arigna, 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 a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Tony Mc Tiernan (Agent, Lower Annagh, Dowra, Co. Leitrim. Tel: 086 3410377.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, John Kelly, intend to Apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to retain Existing three bay slatted shed, creep area, dry bedded shed and to erect a Straw Storage Shed, and all associated works, at Northyard, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: John Kelly.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Fallsollus, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. F45 XD86. I, Angelika Forst, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission for development at the above address. The development will consist relocating and upgrading of the existing septic tank with a new packaged wastewater treatment unit and on-site polishing lter, designed to EPA 2021 Code of Practice and all 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, John Farrell, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of agricultural store and general store, associated site development works and services at Roxborough, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974

Mobile: 086 8115449

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Seamus Bennett, intend to apply for Permission for the following:

A. Renovation of an existing derelict dwelling and the construction of a single storey extension to the rear (South) of the existing dwelling,

B. Demolition of an adjacent outhouse to the northeast side of the existing dwelling,

C. Revised site boundary,

D. Installation of a sewerage treatment unit and tertiary treatment area,

E. Along with connections to site services, and all other associated site works.

At: Gra oge Td, Scramoge, 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Murtagh Engineering

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon

PLANNING N O T I C E

I, Thomas Casey, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Rockingham, Demesne, Co. Roscommon.

The Development will consist of:

1. Construction of 5 number Dwellings

2. Communal E uent Treatment Systems

3. Access drive & parking

4. Associated site works.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Laura Franks, wish to apply to the above authority for Planning Permission to construct 3 number glamping pods with associate decking and hot tubs, convert existing shed to glamping pod with hot tub, demolish existing out building & part of existing hay barn, constuct new laundry room, connection to water main & install new proprietary treatment unit & percolation area and all associated site works at Coolatober, Ballyforan, 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Eric Nugent & Associates (Agent), Planning & Design Consultants, 20 St. Francis Terrace, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Mobile: 0863379733

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Joan and Laurence Brayden, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. to construct domestic dwelling house with new site entrance and boundary wall, and connection to existing public services, 2. to refurbish existing shed, and all ancillary site development works at Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 085 1299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

Rathpeak, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

I hereby apply to the above authority, on behalf of Mark Kelly, for planning permission to construct a fully serviced private dwelling house with waste water treatment system and garage / fuel shed to include all associated site works at the above location.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Alan Monson Farming Ltd, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for the construction of a 3 bay slatted shed with straw bedded area, together with all associated site works at Carrowkeel, Kingsland, Boyle, 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Alan Monson.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Rathcroghan Designs, intend applying for Planning Permission on behalf of O B Farms Ltd to retain as constructed existing Manure Pit together with all associated site works at Ballyroddy Td, Elphin, Co Roscommon.

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

Signed Martin Dowd, Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. 086 2328484.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Thomas and Anne Gormley, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for 1. Planning Permission to construct new Slatted Cubicle Shed, 2. And Retention Permission to retain the existing Agricultural Shed containing Milking parlour, Slatted Tank and Calving Pens, Together with all associated site works at Lishugh Td, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Signed Martin Dowd, Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. 086 2328484.

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 o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

Design Consultation Planning Applications

New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

I, Liam Dolan, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Curraghboy TD, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of Permission for an extension to an existing agricultural building and a new wastewater treatment system to an existing house. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the Planning Authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of ﬁve weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations may 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: Liam Dolan.

I, Felix O Connor, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to construct single storey dwelling house and install new waste water treatment system and percolation area, together with all associated site works, at Cloonroughan, Elphin Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Angelika Forst. To

We, Sinead & Padraig McKeon, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for the construction of a dwelling house and detached garage together with the installation of a wastewater treatment system, percolation area, new site entrance and all associated site works at Knockroe, Croghan, Boyle, 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 €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Sinead & Padraig McKeon.

Signed: Ruane Survey, Design and Planning Ltd. Phone: (087) 8188596. www.oliverruane.com

Signed Martin Dowd, Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. 086 2328484.

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 speci c 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.

LEGAL NOTICE

THE DISTRICT COURT

District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4. Public Dance Halls Act, 1935, Section 2. NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE

Michael Flahive, Ard Aoibhinn, Roscommon –Applicant.

Secretary, Dr. Douglas Hyde Park Club, Roscommon – Applicant.

Take Notice that Michael Flahive, Ard Aoibhinn, Roscommon, Secretary of Dr. Douglas Hyde Park Club, intends to apply to Roscommon District Court to be held at The Courthouse, Roscommon on Tuesday, 17th September 2024 at 10.30 am, for the Grant of a Licence to use a particular place to with the Dr. Douglas Hyde Park Club House situate at Ardsallagh, Roscommon, in the court area and district aforesaid, for Public Dancing.

Date this 12th Day of August, 2024

Signed: THOMAS V. McCRANN & SON Solicitors for the Applicant, Church Street, Roscommon.

TO: The District Court Clerk, Government Buildings, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

TO: The Superintendent, Garda Siochana, Roscommon.

TO: The Chief Fire O cer, Fire Authority HQ, Circular Road, Roscommon.

TO: The Secretary, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon.

APPOINTMENTS

LEGAL NOTICE

An Chuirt Duiche The District Court No. 86.3

Public Dance Halls Act, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE

District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4

Anya Grealy as Nominee Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Anya Grealy as nominee of Abbey Hotel Roscommon Limited of Abbeytown, Roscommon, Roscommon, Ireland intends to apply to the District Court at Roscommon District Court on the 17 Sep 2024 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence a Licence to use a particular place, to wit: LOCATION

The Ballroom, Abbey Hotel Roscommon situate at Roscommon, Roscommon, Roscommon in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 14 Aug 2024

Signed: Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP Solicitor for Applicant

The Square, Roscommon, Roscommon

To the: Garda Superintendent, at MR.Roscommon. CE@Garda.ie, Roscommon Garda Station, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 HN32

To the: Fire O cer, at re@roscommoncoco.ie, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 VR98

To the: County Council O cial, at info@roscommoncoco.ie, Church Road, Roscommon Town, Roscommon, F42VR98

To the: District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court

Temporary Full-Time Community Employment Supervisor

Duration: Temporary position, 6 months maternity cover.

O ce Location: Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, West Region, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Pay: Point 1 of the supervisor scale €671.97 per week.

Start Date: September 2024

Overall View: To enable participants in the scheme to develop and gain quality work experience and training for their own future. An essential part of this role is to ensure the e ective and e cient direction and co-ordination of the material and nancial resources.

Quali cations/Experience/Skills:

• A recognised quali cation in secretarial/administration and pro ciency in IT packages is advantageous.

• At least 1 years’ experience working in the area of administration/accounts/payroll/revenue returns, including experience working with Microsoft packages and computer Databases is essential.

• Ability to exercise good judgement discretion and con dentiality

• A full clean driving licence and use of a car is an essential requirement of the post.

• Fluency in verbal and written English is an essential requirement of this post.

HOW TO APPLY:

Submit CV & Cover letter by post or email Email to: Avril.McTeigue@bocsi.ie

Post to: Avril McTeigue, PA to Roscommon Services Manager BOCSI Roscommon O ces, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon, Eircode: F42 XA62 For informal enquires please contact Avril McTeigue at 0906628500 Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm, Friday 16th August 2024.

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

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

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233

SIOBHAN

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

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

DIP CHFP

(Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Electrician Available

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

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

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

• Fast Reliable Service

• Professional, Courteous Employees

• Trustworthy ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

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

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

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available

KELLY Martin

Mullymux, Roscommon. 14th August, 2018 (6th Anniversary)

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

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

Masses o ered.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it).

Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Many thanks.

C.S.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

L.S.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

E.M.

SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED ONLINE

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

RAFTERY

Buddy and Bridie

In loving memory of Bridie and Buddy, late of Bracklin, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon.

Bridget (Bridie) Raftery (Nee Shaughnessy) 5th Anniversary (19th August 2019)

Michael (Buddy) Raftery 3rd Anniversary (30th November 2021)

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss them most of all.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by their sons Donal and Adrian, daughter Martina, grandchildren Rian, Olwen, Darragh, Robyn and Ruth, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet, Creggs, Co. Roscommon, Sunday 29th September at 11:30am.

KEEGAN

John and Mary Rathmore, Four Mile House, Roscommon

(31st Anniversary) (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our parents John who passed away on 20th of June 1993 (31st Anniversary) and Mary who passed away on 17th of August 2016 (8th Anniversary).

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

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

Anniversary Mass for Mary and John will take place on Sunday, 18th August at 11am in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House.

RHATIGAN

Patrick (Paddy) (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Patrick (Paddy) Rhatigan, late of St. Matthew’s Park, Ballymahon and formerly Lisbride House Gate Lodge and Carrowmore, Kilteevan and Roscommon, who departed this life on 18th August 2023.

Those we love don’t go away, you walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, still missed and very dear.

Forever loved and remembered by your daughter Patricia and son James, son-in-law Frank, daughter-in-law Upile, sister Alice (London), brother-in-law Christy, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Anniversary Masses o ered in Ireland and London.

M cCORMACK

Michael (Mick)

Main Street, Ballaghaderreen Who passed away on August 20th 2023 (1st Anniversary)

In memory of Michael on his First Anniversary. Lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his mother Phyllis, brother John, sister Maria Walsh (Renmore, Galway), sister-in-law Patricia, brother-in-law Gabriel, nieces and nephew, and extended family.

We wish to express our sincere gratitude for all the kindness, support and sympathy we received on the sad passing of Michael.

We are grateful to all those who attended his funeral ceremonies, including those who travelled long distances. You provided us with so much comfort upon his passing.

We are thankful for all the mass cards, messages of support, and all the lovely sentiments expressed in conversation, in written notes and in the condolences on RIP.ie/Midwest Radio. Your warm words and recollections of Michael evoked great memories of his life.

A special mention to Michael’s work colleagues from the many newspapers he worked for, who turned out to acknowledge his work and friendship; the Longford NEWS (where he started out), Roscommon Champion and Longford Leader, and in more recent decades the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald.

Thanks to the supporters and volunteers of the many local GAA clubs and GAA county boards, and indeed of other sporting bodies, who knew Michael from the sidelines of the grounds throughout County Roscommon (and further a eld), where he earned his bread and butter through his photography work.

Thanks to the local people of his beloved Ballaghaderreen who turned out in big numbers to pay their respects. Thanks to Michael’s friends and school pals who formed a Guard of Honour, both on his journey to the Cathedral and to Kilcolman Cemetery.

We wish to thank his GP, Dr Greg Kelly for his care and attention over the years, and also the doctors, nurses and sta of Mayo University Hospital who took care of Michael in the nal three weeks of his life.

Thank you to Bishop Paul Dempsey for his kind words and prayers at Michael’s reposing, to Fathers Paul Kivlehan, Tommy Towey, Eugene Du y, Dan and Stephen O’Mahony, for the beautiful funeral Mass.

Thanks also to Fr Vincent Sherlock, a school pal of Michael’s, for celebrating the Month’s Mind. For the wonderful church singing, we thank Bernadine Casserly.

Thanks to the gravediggers for the preparation of Michael’s nal resting place. To the sta of the Fiddlers Elbow who provided the catering after the funeral, we thank you.

Special thanks to our friends and neighbours who brought food and shared stories of their memories of Michael.

Our appreciation to Tom and Bernie Sharkey of Sharkey Funeral Directors for their professionalism and help during a di cult time for us, the family.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation.

Michael’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen at 10 am on Saturday, 17th August 2024.

Of all the stars that ever shone…

www.brianmurraystone.com E:

Kevin Turpane, Ballyforan

In loving memory of our dear son Kevin who died on 13th August 1996 (Aged 15 years) (28th Anniversary)

August comes with sad regret, the day, the month we will never forget, a tribute of love to a son so dear, so close to our hearts, each day of the year. Falling tears and aching hearts, are things we have to bear, but losing Kevin the way we did, will always seem unfair. Pray for us, O Dearest Father, to Jesus Christ our King, that he may bless our lonely home, where thou once dwelt therein, and pray that God may give us strength, to bear our heavy loss, for no one knows only He, the treasure we have lost.

Loved and sadly missed by Mammy and Daddy.

KEVIN

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts, is always kept for you.

Always remembered by your brother Frank and sister-in-law Susan.

KEVIN

To have you for our brother was cause enough for pride, no one could ever equal you, no matter how they tried. Although we cannot see you, you are with us night and day, for you have a special love, death cannot take away. Your gentle nature, your kindly ways, leave golden memories of bygone days, never selﬁsh, always kind, what happy memories you left behind. Will those who think of him today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered always by your brothers Michael and Frank.

KEVIN

So many things have happened, since you were called away, so many things to share with you had you been left to stay. Every day in some small way, memories of you come our way, though absent, you are ever near, still missed, loved and always dear.

Loved and remembered always by your brother Michael, sister-in-law Maria and nephews Ciarán, Kevin, Rónán and Michéal.

Anniversary Mass for Kevin will be held on Friday, 16th August in Ballyforan Church at 7.30pm.

CARTY

KELLY (nee Conboy) Peggy

Late of Tonlagee, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

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

Lovingly remembered by your husband Michael.

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

God saw you getting tired, a cure was not to be

He put his arm around you and whispered “Come to Me” With tearful eyes we let you go, and watched you fade away.

Although our hearts were broken we could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest God knows why He took you

He only takes the best.

Lovingly remembered by your daughters Deirdre, Sandra, Michelle and Valerie, sons Marty and Michael, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

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

Time goes by and life goes on but from our thoughts you are never gone.

Lovingly remembered by your brother Seamus.

Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House, Roscommon on Friday, 30th August at 7.00 pm.

Submit your Classiﬁed online

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

CONNAUGHTON

John

Laragh, Ballintubber, Castlerea, County Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

in loving memory of John, who died on August 18th 2022.

Those we love don’t go away, you walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Always remembered by your loving wife Mary, sons, John, Frank, Gerard, Nicholas and Paul and extended family and friends and grandchildren Krystal, Darcey, Dylan and Cillian.

Anniversary Mass at 8pm on 17th August 2024 at Ballymoe Church.

KELLY

(née Cunningham)

Mary Rath, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) Who passed away on the 15th August 2022

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone. Part of us went with you, the day God took you home.

Forever missed and loved by Dette, John, Anne, Claire and Kevin and all your grandchildren and great grandchild and extended family.

First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, August 18th at 11am in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Ballinlough.

M cCRANN Pat

Sheepwalk, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon. Died (tragically) 18th July 2024

On this, the Month’s Mind of the death of our dear, Pat, we the McCrann family, would like to express our sincere thanks and great appreciation for all who have shown kindness and support to us during the last few weeks.

We will be forever grateful to Pat’s many friends, relatives and sta who called and texted, visited us, travelled from near and far to attend the Funeral, sent Mass Cards and wrote lovely condolences on RIP.ie

Our sincere and heartfelt thanks to Fr. Donnelly for carrying out the beautiful Funeral Service and graveside prayers with such warmth and meaning and to Fr. Gavigan for performing Last Rites.

We are grateful and thankful to the Emergency Services for their fast response, excellent care and the sensitivity shown to us.

A special word of thanks to Tommy Sharkey who handled the funeral arrangements with professionalism, sensitivity and kindness. We would like to thank everyone who lined the roads as Pat made his nal journey to St. Asicus’ Church, Frenchpark and onwards to his nal resting place in Tibohine Cemetery.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledge as a token of our gratitude.

Month’s Mind Mass will be held in St. Asicus’ Church, Frenchpark on Saturday the 24th of August at 11am.

Sadly missed by his parents Pat and Ann, brothers Brian, Kevin and Eamon, partner Liz and her son John, sister-in-law Joan, Eamon’s partner Sinead, niece Liona, nephew Ronan, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, sta , neighbours and many friends

In loving memory of MURRAY

Patrick

Lisphelim, Knockcroghery. (39th anniversary) Who passed away August 16th 1985.

Quietly your memory we will always treasure, loving you always, forgetting you never.

Fondly remembered by your daughter Geraldine.

FLYNN

Brian and Ann Donamon (21st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Brian and Ann who passed away on 17th August 2003

Time and years slip gently by, but love and memories never die. In our hearts ye will always stay, loved and remembered everyday. Sadly missed by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 18th August at 10 am in Donamon Castle.

FITZPATRICK

Joseph (Joe) Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary) 15th August 2019

Five year’s today you passed away. But the loss we feel never goes away. Sadly missed by his wife, sons, daughters, daughter–in -law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday August 24th in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh at 8 pm.

FITZPATRICK

Joe

Cloonageragh, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear brother Joe who died on the 15th August 2019.

Always in our thoughts. Forever in our hearts.

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

O’DONNELL

Ada

Edel Vale, Circular Road, Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Ada, who died on 27th August 2011

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Derry and family.

Anniversary Mass in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Friday, 23rd August at 11am.

GRADY

Rita

Carnamadda, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my mother Rita who died on 7th August 2019.

There is always a face before me a voice I would love to hear.

A smile I will always remember of a mother, I loved so dear. Deep in my heart lies a picture, more precious than silver or gold. It’s a picture of my mother, whose memory will never grow old.

Always remembered and sadly missed by your son, Andy. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ There is a home not made by hands

Beyond its golden door

Awaits the one who’s now away

Not lost, just gone before. And in that home not made by hands

The Master will prepare A place for us, and when he calls We’ll meet our loved ones there.

Loved and sadly missed by Marion and Michael; Niamh and Alan, Paul, Brenda, Caoimhe and Ruairi.

Sports PEOPLE

Fascinating club games in prospect

GAME OF THE WEEKEND

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Round 2:

Roscommon Gaels v Oran on Friday in Lisnamult at 8 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

Both teams need a win here – for different reasons. Against Castlerea, the Gaels took a while to come to life, and their eight-point winning margin ﬂattered them a bit. They need another win here to put them in the ‘possible contenders’ category.

The town team have some outstanding performers including James Featherstone, Mark Healy, Senan Lambe, Ryan Conlon, Eoghan Carthy, Tim Lambe, Scott Oates, Mark Purcell, Peter Gillooly and Cian Connolly, and they will be hoping that John McManus can play at least some part as he recovers from injury. Oran, who were shocked in the last minute by Tulsk, need a win, whether here or against Castlerea. The Walsh brothers, Tom Featherstone, Charlie Carthy, Cormac Regan, Cathal Kenny and Ciaran Lawless are all ﬁne players and they will provide a stiff challenge for their neighbours.

A win for Oran would set them up for the rest of the championship and would banish any relegation playoff fears, with a game still to come. Mark Dowd’s side look stronger and if they can get enough ball into Connolly and Gillooly they should win by three or four points.

Prediction: Roscommon Gaels.

Group A

Tulsk face Castlerea in Tulsk on Friday at 7 pm. Castlerea will want to get that all-important win after their loss to Roscommon Gaels. Tulsk will go into the game with real momentum after their great win against Oran, and they might just have the edge.

Group B

The clash of Western Gaels and Michael Glaveys on Saturday (at 6 pm in Loughglynn) is a big game for both clubs. Neither want to think about a possible relegation play-off.

Glaveys were well beaten by St Brigid’s in the opening round while Western Gaels’ match was postponed. There are plenty of good players on both sides. Western Gaels might just have the edge.

In Kiltoom (Saturday at 7 pm) St Brigid’s will entertain St Faithleach’s (who have yet to play in the championship). St Brigid’s were hardly out of third gear against Michael Glaveys yet they scored 0-17 (016 from play). The Murtagh brothers will spearhead the St Faithleach’s challenge but anything other than a comfortable St Brigid’s win would be a shock.

Group C

Clann na nGael and Boyle meet in Enﬁeld (Saturday at 6.30 pm), both happy in the knowledge that they have a win already under their belts. Clann snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against Pearses while Boyle just about got the better of St Dominic’s. Boyle look to have more ﬁrepower up front and on that basis they are the choice to record their second win of the campaign.

On Friday night in Kiltoom (8 pm), St Dominic’s face an uphill task when they meet a Pearses side who are smarting after being caught late against Clann.

St Dominic’s did well against Boyle – and could have won – but Pearses will be going to Kiltoom determined to open their account for this championship, and they should do so.

John Keane & Sons IFC

Group A

Elphin meet Kilbride on Saturday evening and should be good enough to defeat opponents who were beaten by Shannon Gaels in round one.

Nigel Dineen’s men must be considered one of the favourites to lift the IFC title. They beat Pearses in a dour encounter in round one and have more to offer.

On Sunday, Shannon Gaels play Padraig Pearses at home in Croghan. The Gaels were very impressive in round one and could be dark horses in this year’s IFC. Boosted by home advantage, they should win.

Group B

St Croan’s face Fuerty in Enﬁeld on Friday night. This will be an interesting battle between two sides

who both need a win. Fuerty were pipped by Éire Óg and St Croan’s were beaten by Creggs. There won’t be much in this but St Croan’s might be the better bet.

Creggs and Éire Óg meet on Saturday. The Loughglynn club will be hoping to feature at the business end again this year. If Ronan Dowd and Darren Gately strike form Creggs could cause a surprise. Éire Óg are the hesitant choice to edge it.

Group C

Strokestown face Kilmore in a local derby on Saturday night and the senior champions from two years ago look a strong prospect to return to the top ranks this year. They defeated St Michael’s with a bit to spare in round one last weekend so they should be able to deal with the challenge of Kilmore.

St Michael’s play St Brigid’s on Sunday. The junior champions from last year will need a win to ensure they are not involved in any relegation scrap. They are well capable of edging out St Brigid’s’ second string.

Croan’s v Fuerty. 7.30 pm

Roscommon JAFC Group A (Round 2) At Nash Park: St Ronan’s v St Aidan’s. 7.30 pm

Saturday, August 17th

Roscommon SFC Group B (Round 2)

At Frenchpark: Western Gaels v Michael Glaveys. 6 pm

At Kiltoom: St Brigid’s v St Faithleach’s. 7 pm

Roscommon SFC Group C (Round 2)

At En eld: Clann na nGael v Boyle. 6.30 pm

Roscommon IFC Group A (Round 2)

At Elphin: Elphin v Kilbride. 7.30 pm

Roscommon IFC Group B (Round 2)

At Loughglynn: Éire Óg v Creggs. 5 pm

Roscommon IFC Group C (Round 2)

At Kilglass: Strokestown v Kilmore. 7.30 pm

Roscommon JAFC Group B (Round 2)

At Fuerty: St Joseph’s v Ballinameen. 7 pm

Sunday, August 18th

Roscommon IFC Group A (Round 2)

At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Padraig Pearses. 4.30 pm

Roscommon IFC Group C (Round 2)

At Kilmore: St Brigid’s v St Michael’s. 2.30 pm

Roscommon JAFC Group A (Round 2) At Tulsk: Western Gaels v St Barry’s. 4.30 pm

Roscommon JAFC Group B (Round 2) At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Clann na nGael. 2.30 pm

Roscommon JAFC Group C (Round 2) At Ballyleague:

Ronan Stack from St Brigid’s, pictured here in action during their opening round match against Michael Glaveys, will be a crucial player when they face St Faithleach’s on Saturday evening in the second round of the Roscommon SFC. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Family Fun Day at Roscommon on Tuesday

Horses for Courses by

A fully sponsored card at Lenabane next Tuesday opens with the QuinnBet Claiming Race over 1m 2f. This will be followed by four races over the minimum distance of 7f, i.e. the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden, the Irish EBF Auction Series Race, the Murray Ambulance Fillies Maiden and the Conor Cassidy Car Sales Handicap.

The penultimate race is the District Speciality Coffee Apprentice Maiden and racing closes with the Sean Cleary Memorial Handicap, both over 1m 4f.

The best turned out is sponsored by YK Signs Athleague, and music after racing is by Billy Garvan.

Tuesday is Family Fun Day in Roscommon and racecourse manager Michael Finneran tells me that there will be entertainment for all the children including teacup rides, bungee trampoline, balloon twisting plus much more.

This weekend’s racing Racing this week begins this evening (Thursday) in

Tom Red

Tramore, their 4-day summer festival over jumps, starting at 5.20 pm.

Tomorrow (Friday) afternoon sees racing on the all-weather at Dundalk, away at 1.40 pm. There is also ﬂat racing at Cork at 4.15 pm.

On Saturday evening Tramore is away at away at 5 pm, and on Sunday afternoon at 2.03 pm.

On Saturday the ﬂat action is in the afternoon at headquarters, the Curragh, with two Group 3 races, the Royal Whip Stakes and the Irish St Leger Trial Stakes. Stalls open at 1.45 pm. There is no Irish racing on Monday with racing on the level on Tuesday evening in Roscommon.

On TV

Terrestrial television coverage this week starts this evening (Thursday) with six races from Windsor in the Racing League covered on ITV4.

On Saturday, there are four races from Newbury, two from Ripon and one from Newmarket on Shergar Cup Day with two races from Haydock and

Paul powers to penultimate night win

Last Friday night saw the penultimate event in the Hollywood Bar Darts Super League taking place with some excellent darts throughout the night as the race for points heats up. The ﬁnal was between Paul Carton and Thomas Concannon. Both players topped their respective groups and came through the knockout stages comfortably to reach the ﬁnal.

The ﬁnal itself started with both players playing steady darts with Concannon edging the ﬁrst leg to take a 1-0 lead.

Play went up a gear in the following leg with Concannon putting Carton under pressure. However, Carton responded superbly to tie up the game at 1-1.

The standard didn’t let up in the third leg either, Concannon starting the stronger with consecutive 100s but Carton ﬁnishing the stronger, taking a 2-1 lead. Only one leg from defeat, Concannon pulled out all the stops in the fourth but some really consistent scoring from Carton in that leg made the difference as he went on to record a 3-1 win.

Special thanks to all the players who took part and helped create such a high standard on the night.

Many thanks also to The Hollywood Bar management and staff for their sponsorship of the event and for the hospitality shown to all on the night.

one from Newmarket. All races are being carried by ITV4.

Next week, ITV and Virgin Media One will carry racing at York starting on Wednesday.

Racing at York

York starts next Wednesday featuring the Grade 1 Juddmonte International stakes with 26 entries.

Coolmore’s City Of Troy, one of seven O’Brien entries, heads the betting at 4/6 with 7/1 the ﬁeld.

It is very difﬁcult to oppose the favourite, winner of the Derby and the Eclipse Stakes, but Wesley Burrows’ Alﬂaila appears to love York and having won three of his four races on the track, it cannot be disregarded.

Racing News

Fresh from losing his claim at Galway, jockey Danny Gilligan rode his ﬁrst double as a fullyﬂedged jockey at Ballinrobe on Monday aboard Drumgill for John Ryan and The Vegas Raider for fellow Galwegian, Athenry-based trainer, Kevin Heffernan.

Joseph O’Brien’s Al Riffa won the Group 1 Grosser Preis von Berlin at Hoppegarten last Sun-

Player Proﬁle

day under regular partner Dylan Browne-McMonagle.

The odds-on favourite had ﬁnished runner-up to City Of Troy in the Eclipse at Sandown, but Japanese champion jockey Yutaka Take will probably ride him in the Prix De l’Arc.

Competition Time

Winners of tickets to Roscommon next Tuesday are Gemma McDonnell from Headford,

Declan Dillon from Fuerty and Maria Regan from Ballinasloe, who all knew that Nurburgring won the Galway Hurdle. Hope you all enjoy the day.

To be in with a chance of winning tickets for Kilbeggan on August 23rd, let us know which jockey rode his ﬁrst double in Ballinrobe last Monday?

We also have tickets for Roscommon on the 2nd of September. To enter, please let us know who is the manager of

C’mon The Town

Name: Matthew Towey Team: U-12s

Position: Mid eld

Three words that describe me: Kind, team player, fun

Skill strength: Crossing & stamina

Skill Weakness: Heading

Favourite team: Liverpool

Favourite player: Alex OxladeChamberlain

Favourite Irish player: Chiedozie Ogbene

Best stadium in the world: Wembley

Messi or Ronaldo or neither: Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or neither: PlayStation

Favourite food: Pizza

Favourite lm: Minions

Favourite book: Slime by David Walliams

Favourite song: N17 (The Saw Doctors)

What makes me happy: Playing any sport

Person I admire the most: Virgil Van Dijk

Why I play soccer: Because I enjoy it Hopes for the season: To win a trophy

On the Pitch

On Monday evening, our Town 1 U-14 boys team had a comfortable win at home to Shiven Rovers. On Tuesday, our three U-12 boys sides were in action. Town 1 hosted Skyvalley Rovers. Town 2 were away to Strokestown while Town 3 were in Lecarrow.

Our U-16 girls were at home to Kilkerrin on Wednesday evening.

On Thursday, our Town 1 boys team are away to Ballinagare while Town 2 travel to Ahascragh.

On Friday evening, our boys Europa League 1 team are in Moylough while our Europa League 3 team host Ballaghaderreen.

On Saturday evening, the U-18 boys are at home to CP Ajax in the league while the U-18 girls are in

cup action in Castlerea on Sunday evening.

Earlier on Sunday, our boys U-9 have matches. Town 1 and 3 play at home to Skyvalley and Dysart, respectively. Town 2 are in Ballymoe. Our U-9 girls are at home to Dunmore.

Galway Cup

Well done to Senan Lohan and Matthew Towey who played their

Roscommon Racecourse?

Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm, on the 21st of August for Kilbeggan and the 28th of August for Roscommon. As always, do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact with all competition entries. As usual all tickets will have to be collected in the ofﬁce in Abbey Street.

part in helping Roscommon reach the boys U-12 ﬁnal at last week’s Galway Cup.

The competition enabled the lads to showcase their skills and they should be proud of their performance. The experience will stand to them and we wish them well for the remainder of the RDYSL season.

Sponsorship appreciation

Sincere thanks to Barry Miley of Tulsk Fuels for sponsoring jerseys for our boys U-16 Town 1 team this season. It is very much appreciated.

Coach Education

Best wishes to our committed coach Olimpia who has commenced her UEFA C Licence. The time and effort she makes for the players is incredible. Good luck Oli.

Also, a number of our players aged sixteen and over are taking part in a PDP1 coaching course this weekend. Thanks to them for their interest and we hope to see their skills being applied on the pitch in the near future. Our players today will be our coaches tomorrow.

Wise Words

‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take’ – Wayne Gretzky Our Community. Our Children. Our Club.

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

In association with the

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Drumgill and Danny Gilligan on their way to victory in Ballinrobe last Monday.

Last Friday night’s Hollywood Bar Darts Super League runnerup Thomas Concannon (left) pictured with winner on the night, Paul Carton (right).

Tulsk Fuels are sponsors of the Roscommon Town boys U-16 Town 1 team.

SportsPeople

St Dominic’s storm into semi-final

In the opening SHC game in Ballyforan last Sunday, Athleague finished well to defeat Oran by 1-17 to 2-12. The first half was evenly matched with Cian Murray and Paddy Fallon exchanging goals to leave Oran ahead by 1-9 to 1-8 at half-time.

When Oisin Keenan scored a second Oran goal early in the second half, it looked good for Kieran Farrell’s men, who led at one stage by 2-11 to 1-9. However, eight points without reply sealed victory for Athleague with Ben McGahon excellent from frees throughout. Oran will reflect on hitting 18 wides over the hour.

On Saturday evening, St Dominic’s had a comprehensive 4-18 to 0-9 win against Tremane to book a place in the semi-finals. The Knockcroghery men led by 2-11 to 0-5 at half-time with Jack Lohan and Naos Connaughton getting the goals.

In the second half, further goals from Lorcan Lyons and Conall Kennelly increased St Dominic’s’ lead.

Note: In the quarter-finals, Oran will play Athleague while Roscommon Gaels will face Tremane. St Dominic’s and Four Roads are through to the semi-finals.

Short putts

BALLAGHADERREEN

Dramatic Finn-ale for unlucky Pearses

RESILIENT GAELS EARN DRAW

Kepak SHC

Roscommon Gaels 1-16

Padraig Pearses 1-16

< SEAMUS DUKE

There was drama aplenty in Ballyforan last Sunday as two late frees converted by Finn Killion for Roscommon Gaels saw Padraig Pearses eliminated from this year’s championship, with Oran living to fight another day.

The earlier win by Athleague against Oran had guaranteed that the Gaels were already through to the quarter-finals.

Pearses will be cursing their luck this week as they were the better team for most of this match, although in fairness to the Gaels, they never threw in the towel, especially in the final quarter.

With Sean Canning and Oisin Kelly in superb form in the half-forward line, Pearses were on top for most of the first half and they led by 0-9 to 0-5 at half-time.

Pearses went even further ahead on the restart when Matthew Comerford scored a fine goal. By the 36th minute they led by a comfortable 1-11 to 0-6.

The Gaels stuck to their task well. Four unanswered points, including two frees from Finn Killion, kept the town side in touch by the halfway mark.

The Gaels’ comeback was boosted with 12 minutes left on the clock when Ryan Conlon scored a fine opportunist goal, and now Pearses only led by two (1-12 to 1-10). Then pointed frees from goalkeeper Brendan Quinn and Killion levelled the scores with ten minutes to go.

The sides were tied again at 1-14 apiece. In the 56th minute, Sean Canning converted a late free and then Karl Feehily was on target from distance in the 59th minute. It looked as if Pearses had done enough at that stage.

But in the final minute of play Killion was on target for Roscommon Gaels with a free, and the same player tied up the scores with another pointed free in injury-time. Pearses were out and Oran were safe.

Roscommon Gaels: Brendan Quinn (0-3, frees);

Congratulations to Regina Clarke-Fitzgerald, the overall winner of the Men’s Captain’s prize to the ladies which was held recently, and to the runners-up Anne O’Brien and Mary Cunniffe. Prizes were awarded based on the return of the highest ladies scores after the Captain’s Drive-in. The men’s captain, Danny Brown made a presentation to the winning ladies in the clubhouse on Saturday night.

Congratulations also to Helen Curran, winner of Sunday’s 18-hole Stableford competition which was sponsored by Grange Fuels.

BOYLE

The Captain’s Prize to the men takes place on Sunday the 18th, and will be played in its traditional format of an 18-hole Strokeplay followed by a 9-hole play-off that evening for the top scorers. The presentation of prizes will take place shortly after the conclusion of the play-off.

Fintan Doyle, Tim Gilmore, Chris Duignan; Kevin Glynn, James Connolly, David Hough; Orin Walsh, Aodha Hession; Ryan Conlon (1-1), Richard Walsh (0-2), Dean Conlon; Finn Killion (0-10, 8 frees), Dylan Hanley, Jack Fleming. Subs: Liam Naughten for Fleming (4), Conor Grogan for Hough (39), Ger Clogher for D Conlon (43), Barry Mullen for Duignan (51), Eoghan Keaveney for Hanley (58).

Padraig Pearses: Jack Ryan; David Dolan, Luke Corbett, Eoghan Costello; Shane Naughton, James Burke, Karl Feehily (0-1); Ronan Finn, Darragh Finn (0-1); Oisin Kelly (0-6, 3 frees), Jamie Donoghue, Sean Canning (0-7,

frees); Matthew Comerford (1-1), Tiege Cogavin, Dan Staunton. Subs: Eoin Canning for D Finn (24), E Canning for Staunton (42).

Referee: Francis Kelly.

There will also be a Captain’s Scramble on Friday evening, the 16th, which is open to all club members with or without a handicap. There will be a presentation of some prizes from recent competitions that evening also.

Well done to Liam Whyte, Karl Keenan, Mark Feehan and Jason Whyte who won the Bank Holiday Shambles Competition with 154 pts.

Well done to Keith Dowling who was the first man to book his spot in the King Harmon Cup final. Keith will be playing the winner of Liam Whyte v Kevin O’Connor.

Our Jack O’Sullivan team made it through another round of the Inter-club cup this week with a fine win against Castle Dargan Golf Club.

A 5k Fun Run/Walk will be taking place at Boyle Golf Club on Sunday, September 8th, at 11 am. €20 per person or €35 per family, with light refreshments afterwards. Registration on the day.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

Congratulations to Monica Shannon who won the recent McHugh’s Bar-sponsored ladies club competition with a score of 38 pts. The ladies would like to thank Enda and Caroline from McHugh’s Bar, Carrick-on-Shannon for their very generous sponsorship of the competition.

Well done also to Noelle O’Keeffe who won the recent ladies 9-hole competition with 24 pts.

The ladies Connacht qualifier for Australian Spoons was held recently in Enniscrone Golf Club. The club was represented by two pairs: Dolores Mulvey and Kathleen Loftus and Phil Emmett and Phil McWeeney.

Well done to Dolores Mulvey and Kathleen Loftus who qualified for the final in Longford Golf Club on August 24th.

The Jack O’Sullivan team were in action last week in the first round of the Jack O’Sullivan Inter-club cup. They lost 3-1 to Strandhill. The club wishes Strandhill the best of luck in the next round.

Congratulations to Niall Loftus and Declan Loftus who won the very successful men’s 666 competition with a score of 63 net.

ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Golf Club had a Play in Pink Day, a fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research, on Thursday, July 11th. This was well supported by both ladies and men, with €1,901.50 being raised. Thanks to all who played on the day and supported this worthy cause. Congratulations to Sine Lennon who was 5th in the All-Ireland Girls U-16 Pitch & Putt tournament. This is a wonderful achievement as Sine is just 12-years-old.

Well done to our recent clubhouse winners. Last Friday’s Open Day was won by Jonathan Hehir from Galway with 43 pts. Last weekend’s men’s 18-hole competition was won by Aengus Oates with 46 pts, while the ladies 18-hole competition was won by Marina Cribbon with 39 pts.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Michael Byrne of St Dominic’s in action during Saturday’s Roscommon SHC match against Tremane in Creggs.

Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tremane’s Kevin Brennan and Jason Martin of St Dominic’s in action during Saturday’s Roscommon SHC match in Creggs. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

Hoops, heroes and history…

I wasn’t much good at basketball, but I still remember the excitement in Newtownforbes (County Longford) when our school installed a court – for the ﬁrst time in its history.

Yes, the introduction of the sport to the school (which itself no longer now exists) happened during my time there… over 40 years ago.

Once we had the new facilities – a novelty beyond the usual football and athletics – we enthusiastically formed a school basketball team. I was chosen as captain, not because of my ability, but due to my height.

Mediocrity ensued.

Not wishing to engage in stereotyping or anything, but when some American families moved to Newtownforbes – some of the parents apparently taking up management roles in the Burlington factory in Clondra – our new classmates showed quite a natural talent for basketball.

The lads from Rooskey, Longford and surrounds watched and learnt. It turned out Drumlish wasn’t on a par with Detroit when it came to basketball pedigree.

I’d like to think we went on to dominate the burgeoning schools’ basketball scene, but can only recall one or two memorable competitive outings.

In any event, I’ve always enjoyed dipping in and out of elite basketball on the TV. I didn’t get to see much of the earlier rounds at the recent Olympics, but caught up with both finals. They made for thrilling viewing. The USA defeated France 98-87 to win the men’s final. I was surprised at how well the home team did, but this fine showing by the French men was surpassed by the hosts’ team in a gripping ladies’ final last Sunday.

The USA went into that gold medal game having won the previous SEVEN Olympics. Yes, the USA women’s team has won every single Olympic gold since 1996.

Tuning in on Sunday, I expected that dominance to continue. It did, but only by the smallest margin, and in dramatic circumstances.

It was shattering for the French. In a highly dramatic ﬁnale to a tremendously tense game, Gabby Williams’ last-gasp score was deemed to be a two-pointer (her brilliant effort came from just inside the three-point line) when a three-pointer would have levelled the scores. USA won by 67-66, having admirably come from behind.

RTE’s somewhat eccentric commentator, Tim McCarthy (a long-time and very popular

resident of Kiltoom, Co Roscommon) reckoned France were the better team, but the USA prevailed, making it 61 successive wins for them at the Olympics (dating back to 1996). I imagine this was their closest call.

Back in Newtownforbes in the early 1980s, we had no such drama (or success), but we made good friends –and great memories.

The big kick-off

Players that are spoilt and overpaid; egotistical, overly sensitive managers with tunnel vision; spiralling wages and transfer fees; badly-behaved fans (a minority)…

Also, costly VAR deﬁciencies; a culture of cheating by players; sometimes tiresome hype and hysteria from Sky Sports; an occasional whiff of corruption; a clear sense that the inﬂux of foreign owners is adversely affecting the game; loyalty in terminal decline… the Premier League returns for a new season this weekend.

Can’t wait.

Best of luck, Richael

Best of luck to Roscommon sportsperson Richael Timothy, who will represent Ireland in her second

Paralympics, taking place later this month.

The former Irish soccer international was also an inter-county GAA player with Roscommon until an acquired brain injury ended her career prematurely.

Richael will represent Ireland in cycling at the Games, which begin in Paris on August 28th

Locals heading to World Wallball Championships

From August 18th to 23rd all roads will lead to the University of Limerick as the World Wallball Championships are set to take place there, with entries expected from all over the globe.

Normally held in conjunction with the 40x20 World Championships, Onewall (or Wallball as it has been re-branded) has gained such popularity in the last 15 to 20 years it now warrants its own separate competition.

Needless to say there will be good Roscommon representation there, mainly from St Coman’s and Kilglass, with a few contenders among the 21 Rossies competing.

While the seedings are not available at the time of going to press, Fiona Tully will surely be expecting to be seeded no worse than top three.

With her aggressive killing style, Fiona is a serious contender for the Ladies Open title.

She also teams up with ladies legend Catriona Casey from Cork in the Ladies Open Doubles for what looks like a very formidable pairing.

Another strong contender will be Alanna Coggeran from Kilglass, who takes part in the U-19 grade. A Onewall specialist, Alanna also teams up with another Onewall specialist, Ava Sweeney from Galway, in the doubles – and they could take some beating.

In the Ladies ‘A’ grade, despite less than stellar preparation, St Coman’s duo Carragh Kennedy and Siobhan Treacy are formidable players and have the ability to do some damage in both singles and doubles.

Kilglass have two ﬁne players in the U-13 grade. Eoin Grehan has impressed many in the last year and he could go a long way.

His clubmate Niamh Hall is a very tough competitor, who has worked hard at her game and is constantly improving.

Best of luck to all local participants!

Karate Club on the move!

JKA Roscommon Karate Club moved from their old training venue, the Hyde Centre, to the Christian Brothers School in Roscommon earlier this month.

The club is a member of JKA Ireland and afﬁliated with the Japan Karate Association, the largest and most prestigious traditional karate organisation in the world.

Classes began at their new dojo on Wednesday, August 7th, with juniors (Under-16s) training from 6 to 6.45 pm and seniors (Over-16s) from 6.45 to 8 pm every week.

All ages are encouraged to come along to try it out with new members welcome throughout the year.

New sponsor for Roscommon GAA juvenile football

Recently at Dr Hyde Park, Connacht Gold and Roscommon GAA announced a three-year partnership which will see Connacht Gold sponsoring all juvenile football competitions in the county from 2024 to 2027.

Roscommon GAA Minor Football Committee Chairperson, Shay Galvin said: “We at Roscommon GAA are delighted to have Connacht Gold as the main sponsor for our underage football League and championship competitions here in County Roscommon for the next three years.

“This year our underage championship competitions will consist of three age grades – U-14, U-16 & U-18.

There will be 11 competitions with 26 participating clubs which will consist of 76 participating teams set to play 335 games.

“A massive thank you to Connacht Gold for coming onboard and here’s looking forward to a competitive, entertaining and sporting calendar and good luck to all of our teams taking part”.

Damien Devaney, Head of Finance, Aurivo Dairy said “Aurivo Co-op, under the Connacht Gold brand, are delighted to support the U-14, U-16 and U-18 competitions in Roscommon for the next three years.

“Both the GAA and Aurivo are very much

of the community,

at the heart

making this partnership an ideal ﬁt”.

Pictured during the announcement of Connacht Gold’s sponsorship of the Roscommon GAA Juvenile Football League & Championship at Dr Hyde Park recently were (l-r) Damien Devaney, Head of Finance, Aurivo Dairy; Shay Galvin, Roscommon GAA Minor Football Committee Chairperson; Marion Kelly, Roscommon GAA Minor Football Committee Secretary; and Seamus Hannon, National Sales Manager, Aurivo Consumer Foods.

Fiona Tully of St Coman’s will be hoping to be the number three seed in this year’s World Wallball Championships in Limerick.

Pictured at the recent Athletics Ireland National Masters Finals are the medallists in the 100 metres sprint for 80-85 year olds. From left to right: Michael Ryan (Enniscorthy AC, silver); Con O’Donovan (Bandon AC, gold); Ambrose Kilcline (Roscommon Harriers AC, bronze).

Goal-fest as St Brigid’s stun champs

< KEVIN EGAN

Ladies

SFC

There was no mistaking what was the most eyecatching result in the fourth round of games in the Dermot Hughes Cars sponsored Roscommon LGFA senior championship. St Brigid’s made it four wins out of four by routing county champions Boyle on Sunday morning, racking up an 11-12 to 0-4 win in Kiltoom.

Boyle were severely depleted by the absence of inter-county players Aisling Feely, Caoimhe Cregg, Saoirse Wynne and Megan McKeon, among others, but they also ran head-first into a sensationally sharp St Brigid’s side, who had six goals on the board in the first ten minutes. Marian Nolan (4-6), Sarah O’Rourke (2-2), Áine O’Brien (3-4) and Alison Nugent (1-2) all racked up the scores for St Brigid’s, who will carry the mantle of being the form team of the championship into next Sunday’s local derby clash with Clann na nGael, also at Kiltoom.

For the second time this year, Clann were pushed

right to the wire by an underdog at Johnstown, but while St Dominic’s took a point home from their round one game there, Éire Óg will be feeling desperately unlucky to have lost out by 2-12 to 2-11 on Sunday morning.

The two goals in Róise Lennon’s final tally of 2-7 came in the early exchanges as Clann looked set to power ahead and win well, but a goal from Rebecca Finan and points from Amy Doory helped Éire Óg to get back within a point, and they stayed in touch early in the second half when two points from Rebecca Madden cancelled out scores from Lennon and Ciara Quinn.

Mia Macken’s defensive work and the reappearance of Jenny Higgins on the field steadied Clann and guided them to a four-point lead, before Róisín McDonagh’s late goal set up a tense final 60 seconds.

In Knockcroghery, St Dominic’s built on last week’s late smash-and-grab win with a 6-11 to 5-10 win over Kilbride. Niamh Fitzgerald was the star of the show with 4-2, while Aimee O’Connor added 1-3 for Michael O’Connor’s side, but Kilbride will take heart from such a

competitive performance, produced despite the absence of several established stalwarts. Three of those Fitzgerald goals came in the five minutes before half-time, while Casey Keane, Clara Tully, Niamh Shanagher and Laura McSharry continued to pose a threat, with Keane and Tully combining for 3-8 be-

tween them as they rallied in the second half. *Please see http://roscommonlgfa.ie/fixtures-2024 for all updated fixtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank Dermot Hughes Cars, Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant, and Leydon Brothers for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county.

St Ciarán’s maintain hot streak

Ladies IFC

Following the postponement of their first round fixture, Western Gaels and St Barry’s had their first games in the Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s restaurant LGFA Intermediate Championship at the weekend, and the two clubs from the western and eastern frontiers of the county got off to a flying start with wins over St Croan’s and Michael Glaveys respectively.

It was a relatively short trip down to Enfield for Western Gaels and they burst out of the blocks with an early goal, Claire Sampey and Siobhán Greevy combining before Tina Freyne applied the finish.

The Frenchpark club pushed on to lead by 1-9 to 0-5 early in the second half but a goal from a penalty, scored by Aoife Collins, and a run of excellent scores from Leah Malone set up a tense finish that ended with Western Gaels holding on to pick up a 1-12 to 1-10 win.

St Barry’s had home advantage for their clash with Michael Glaveys and the rustiness was evident on their side as they shot a couple of early wides, with Glaveys capitalising once they scrambled home a goal through Isobel Coggins.

Points from Shannon McGuinness and impressive Roscommon U-16 player

Georgia Geraghty settled St Barry’s into the game however and a Cara Cox goal was the key score in pushing them three clear at the break.

In the second half, Glaveys again made the brighter start, levelling the game through a Shauna Fleming goal with

Western Gaels defeated St Croan’s last weekend.

just 20 seconds played, but two more green flags from Cox meant that the Tarmonbarry side could afford to have a penalty saved by Helena Cummins and still run out 3-11 to 2-7 winners.

There can be no mistaking the early front-runners in the championship however, as St Ciarán’s followed up last week’s big win over Michael Glaveys by running up another landslide win over Kilglass/Kilmore, 11-19 to 3-5.

Laura Fleming and Ciara Dowd led the scoring with 3-4 each for a St Ciarán’s side that had a notable edge in experience and power over their opponents, but there were some bright spots for the underdogs, with Katie Hunt and Heather McElhone going well on their

debuts, while Rebecca Coyle, Shauna Burke and Áine Earley also battled well in a difficult environment.

Clann win a classic

Ladies JFC

The Leydon Brothers JFC is heating up nicely, with two draws and one game decided by a late goal illustrating the competitiveness of the third tier competition.

Pádraig Pearses made the long trip north to Elphin to take on Northern Harps in what looked like one of the ties of the weekend, and a rollercoaster con-

test finished level, Harps 2-9 to Pearses 1-12.

Pearses started strongly with points from Lorraine Kenny and Áine Galvin pushing the Woodmount club into a 0-6 to 0-1 lead, but two goals, one each from Leah Casey and Lauren Shanagher, left the game tightly poised at the break, 1-9 to 2-5.

The second half was a much more defensive battle with county camogie captain Sarah Dooley going well for Pearses as they moved three points clear, but they couldn’t put any more daylight between the sides and a score from Shauna McGrath and then a well-worked team move that ended with Shanagher rounding off

her tally of 1-6 ensured a level game. The other game in the group, between Strokestown and Oran, was postponed. In group two, St Faithleach’s and St Mary’s went into their game at Ballyleague on the back of big wins, and both sides remain unbeaten after another 2-9 to 1-12 level game. With the breeze at their backs, St Mary’s had much the better of the first half and were full value for their 1-9 to 0-4 half-time lead, with Grace Jones, Louise Brady and Niamh Feeney controlling a lot of possession while Nicole Keegan raised the green flag.

Once St Faithleach’s found their scoring touch, Ellen Irwin (2-3) and Sarah Scally (0-4) were the leading threats while Rachel Banahan was also very impressive up front. After drawing level, Banahan had a late chance to sneak a win but her shot drifted narrowly wide in the breeze, meaning both sides remain fully in control of their own destiny. In the other game in that group, there was incredible drama in Johnstown where an 11-a-side game finished with Ella Kenny’s last-minute penalty snatching an 8-12 to 7-14 win for Clann na nGael over Roscommon Gaels.

The first half was dominated by Roscommon Gaels with goals from Shauna Walsh, Alannah Sutton and Molly Finneran helping to establish a ninepoint lead.

However, a balanced attacking performance, strong showings from the Clann subs, a handful of key saves from Aoife Naughton and Kenny’s late winner gave the south Roscommon side their second win of the campaign.

Boyle’s Emma Duggan tries to block the shot from Marian Nolan of St Brigid’s during last Sunday’s Roscommon Ladies SFC match in Kiltoom. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell