16 February 2024 Roscommon People

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16 February 2024

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Fitzmaurice ‘not ruling out’ European run Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice, who announced on Monday that he is joining new political party Independent Ireland, has spoken exclusively to the Roscommon People about speculation linking him to a possible European Election run this summer.

There has been strong speculation over the past while that Fitzmaurice – for many years one of the most high profile Independent TDs in the country – may have been planning to declare as a candidate in this year’s European Elections, in the Midlands-North-West constituency.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice didn’t fully scotch speculation of a European run in June: “Right now, I’m fully focused on serving my constituents and building a new party that will be fit for Government.

“The party will decide in the coming weeks who our candidates for the European Elections will be.

I won’t rule out being on the ticket at this stage.

But to be clear, my preference is to stay in national politics.

“The simplest answer I can give you is that, right now, I intend to sit as a member of the next Dáil.

But anyone who tells you that they know for certain what the future holds is a liar or fool”. Full coverage, page 9; Paul Healy column, page 6.

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

02

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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I hope to buy some agricultural land in the coming months. I would like some advice on the likely taxes I may have to pay. I understand that I will have to pay stamp duty, is this correct? Are there any other taxes I should be aware of e.g. Capital Gains Tax, Capital Acquisitions Tax? The rate of stamp duty payable on agricultural land is 7.5% of the land value. E.g. if you purchase land for €200,000 then stamp duty of €15,000 is payable. Interest and penalties will also be payable if the stamp duty is not paid within the requisite time period.

However, under the Young Trained Farmer relief, a full relief from Stamp Duty is available if the purchaser of the agricultural land is under 35 years old and is the holder of a specified educational and training qualification.

e l p o e WATCHING P With PAUL HEALY

Super Bowl musings… and no Square deal (but a civic chat) with Editor… $7 million!

Huh? $7 million!

Yeah, you said! For what? $7 million!

Is that what Messi earns in a week?

Not quite! Guess again!

Is it the amount the National Children’s Hospital rises by ACCIDENT every week?

CYCLING NO! Is it how much Toy Show: The Musical cost?

If you were involved in a cycling Ha! Go accident on so, tellcontact me why we’re talking about $7 million…

Byrne Carolan Advertising during the Super Bowl!

Cunningham Solicitors Wha’?

That’s how much it cost for a 30-second advertisement during TV coverage of the Super Bowl!

SERIOUSLY? Yep, $7 million… for a 30-second ad!

WOW! (They pause to admit that neither of them fully understand the rules of American Football) So I met the Editor earlier…

Let me guess… you were both out walking.

Yes! He was standing in the Square, staring at that epic structure, lost in his thoughts…

The post office building? Yeah, he loves it…

No, the new civic space!

Huh? He was staring at that new structure in the Square, the covered civic space…

Oh, right!

Very modern it is, almost futuristic!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

And you spoke to the Editor?

Yep, I discussed figures with him…

Our new contract? FINALLY! No! Well, not directly. I tried to humour him. I told him about those advertising rates for the Super Bowl…

Go on… $7 million for a 30-second ad…

Yeah…

And 123 million viewers… that’s what the Super Bowl attracted.

Okay…

So I told the Editor… that the Roscommon People has 80,000 readers…

Yeah…

I put it to him that if it costs seven million dollars to have your ad seen by 123 million people, it should – proportionately – cost countless thousands of euro to place an ad in the Roscommon People!

Brilliant! AND? He kept staring… I could see he was really focussed…

AND? I told him “Boss, you gotta dramatically increase the Roscommon People advertising rates!”

Right… (chooses not to ask why his friend spoke like a Mafia gang member) That way, you and I will get our new contract…

So what did he say?

“It’s very, very high” he said…

The Super Bowl advertising rate?

Nah, I think he meant that new structure in the Square…

(They pause to briefly – and inconclusively – discuss giving up the pint during Lent) Hey my friend, did you have any pancakes on Tuesday?

Of course!

Nice?

Well, yes, but I am feeling a touch queasy…

After just one or two pancakes? Or did you over-indulge?

That’s the problem… when it came to the old pancakes, I had a super bowl!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax payable on the profit made on the disposal of investment property i.e. the sale of any property other than your principal private residence. The rate of CGT is currently 33%.

This tax will not affect the purchaser of property. It is a matter for the seller only.

☺

Kansas City Chiefs, who won the Super Bowl, defeating San Francisco 49ers

Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) is only payable upon receipt of a gift or inheritance. In the event that you purchase land at full market value then no Capital Acquisitions Tax will be payable. If however, land or other property is transferred from one party to another for substantially less than its market value Revenue may treat this transaction as a gift, and CAT may be due. E.g. If you purchase land from a family member for €50,000 and the known market value of the property is €150,000 then Revenue will look upon this transaction as containing a gift from one relative to another of €100,000. The rate of CAT is currently 33%.

Castlerea boxer Aoife O’Rourke, who continued her Olympics’ build-up with a superb gold medal success in the Strandja Memorial Tournament in Bulgaria Fans of UK sitcom Gavin & Stacey, reportedly set to return to our screens with a Christmas Special, five years after the show ended

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

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

It’s been a BAD week for…

☹

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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The Scotland rugby team, who lost their Six Nations encounter with France in very dramatic fashion, when a ‘try’ was disallowed in the final seconds

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

Leah Cull from Arigna to run for Sinn Féin in Boyle area Following a recent Sinn Féin candidate selection convention held in Kilronan Castle, Ballyfarnon, County Roscommon, and attended by Claire

Pictured is Leah Cull from Arigna, Sinn Féin candidate in the Boyle LEA.

Kerrane TD (Roscommon-Galway) as well as Martin Kenny TD for Sligo-Leitrim and Chris Mac Manus MEP (Midlands-North-West), the party have confirmed the selection of Leah Cull from Arigna to contest this June’s Local Elections in the Boyle LEA, alongside Rory Williams Doyle from Scramogue and sitting councillor Michael Mulligan of Ballaghaderreen.

Leah Cull was born and raised in the Arigna valley, where she looks after the family farm with her younger brother Brian. She is a proud committee member of North West STOP suicide prevention organisation, which provides a vital service by offering free counselling to people of all ages.

She delivers mental health and wellbeing talks to businesses, schools, colleges and clubs across the North West.

Speaking at the selection convention, Deputy Claire Kerrane said, “Leah is a fantastic candidate for this area. I

have no doubt that Leah will have the backing of her community and indeed that people will feel a sense of pride to go out and seek support for her during the campaign.

“For 20 years Councillor Michael Mulligan has been the sole party representative on Roscommon County Council but I really looking forward to him being joined by Leah, Christine McDonagh, Joe Harney and Rory Williams Doyle next summer”, she concluded.

Sligo-Leitrim TD Martin Kenny also spoke at the convention: “We’re going to have to be on every doorstep in this election. Leah is an excellent candidate who will not just serve the community but who will serve the country.

“Electing her alongside our other local election candidates is about ensuring a brighter future for our rural economies and for our rural towns and villages that have been left behind for too long”, he concluded.

Roscommon fans Chloe Hurley and Rachel Deering, from Ballinlough, pictured at Dr Hyde Park for the recent NFL Division One match between Roscommon and Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Over €3m in funding for active travel in Roscommon Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed news that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has allocated €290m in funding to local authorities across Ireland to support the rollout of walking and cycling infrastructure in 2024. This will include €3,050,000 for County Roscommon.

“The Active Travel Investment Programme for 2024 will fund new and existing Active Travel projects. Among the major projects to be funded is the Ballaghaderreen Town Development in County Roscommon”, said Senator Murphy.

“This funding reflects the dedication to making walking, cycling and wheeling safer and more accessible throughout the country. We are delivering large and small projects that are making our communities much more attractive, safer and healthier.

“Many of the most attractive cities and towns in the world are the ones that prioritise active travel and now many more locations here in Ireland can join this list of great places to live and visit”, concluded Senator Murphy.

Leah Cull and other SF candidates pictured with Claire Kerrane TD, Martin Kenny TD, and MEP Chris Mac Manus.

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

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06

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

THURSDAY Ones to watch…

think the final score was something like Kansas City Chiefs 1 Taylor Swift PR machine 1.

Still watching Narcos (Netflix)… it’s superb, a riveting drama. This is the 30-part epic on Columbian drug lord Pablo Escobar and his extraordinary criminal empire… an incredible, mind-blowing tale of corruption, murder and mayhem. Yes, it’s nine years since it was made, but so be it (the joys of Netflix).

In more up to date ‘Netflix news’, I can barely turn on the radio these days without hearing extremely positive reviews of a new release… One Day, which is based on the novel of the same name by David Nicholls, and now on our ‘To watch’ list.

I’m also looking forward to ‘The Greatest Night in Pop’, a documentary on the making, in 1985, of the famous ‘We Are the World’ charity single (in aid of African famine relief).

FRIDAY London(ers) calling My cousin in London has been in touch, again. It appears that he is serious about making this happen…

Five or six years ago, maybe it was as many as seven, he got in touch with a proposal. A fellow soccer enthusiast, he knew I played a bit of indoor over the years, and suggested coming over with his mates from London.

“I’ll bring my vets’ team over and we’ll play you guys” he said.

It took me a while to realise his friends weren’t all veterinary surgeons, that he was in fact referring to a veterans’ team.

It helped the London lads’ prospects that they were still actually playing indoor, every single week. The indoor soccer crew that I had been a part of for many years had actually retired. Still, we weren’t that long out of action, and I was confident my friends would tog out one more time.

MONDAY/TUESDAY What Michael did next

And so, we regrouped. The big match went ahead, although as it was summer, we opted to play on the astroturf in Lecarrow, as opposed to indoors. The Rossies won (the fact that the referee of choice was one of our former players was noted by the visitors). The London lads enjoyed the hospitality in Roscommon Town, Rooskey and Strokestown.

Now, out of the blue, and despite the passing years, my cousin in London is proposing a rematch. This summer.

Last time, he brought seven or eight guys, this time, his middle-aged (or older) group of ‘vets’ will, he reckons, run to a party of 15 or more, such is the enthusiasm for the trip.

Things are moving fast. I’m arranging transport, food and drink, accommodation, etc. My cousin in London thinks that’s putting at least a bit of pressure on me. But this initial organisation is the easy part.

The real challenge is… how and where am I going to resurrect a team to take on London’s Likely Lads? To be continued (hopefully).

SATURDAY Drawing a blank…

Can any TV wannabe stop the march of Bradley Walsh? The cheery chap is now unrivalled as the king of quiz shows (episodes of ‘The Chase’ seem to be almost constantly on).

Never being a TV snob, I’ll happily admit that I caught about three minutes of Blankety Blank today, while channelhopping between matches (rugby, soccer and GAA). The quiz show that never took itself seriously (judging by the prizes) was made famous by the late Terry Wogan. Subsequent popular hosts included Les Dawson and Lily Savage/Paul O’Grady, both also sadly now no longer with us. It appears that TV producers have brought Blankety Blank back, and naturally they’ve sent out a call for our Bradley. Now the charismatic Mr Walsh can make any show fairly entertaining, but Blankety Blank will never again command the viewing figures of old.

During my three-minute bout of

nostalgia, a question put to a contestant went as follows: “Unlike Rachel Riley, I really struggled with maths at school, hated algebra, despised fractions – and when it came to decimals I never saw the BLANK”.

The lady filled in the blank with ‘dot’ – much to the disbelief of Bradley and the six celebrity contestants, all of whom had scribbled down ‘point’.

Oh well, I expect the contestant still treasures her ‘chequebook and pen’…

SUNDAY Super Bowl & Swift

I didn’t tune into the much-hyped Taylor Swift Show which was broadcast around the world tonight – live from Las Vegas.

I understand it was pretty spectacular, super even, and that in addition to all the exciting content of a ‘Swiftian’ nature, the mega-event also featured some good sideshows, such as footballers playing in the background.

I’m not into American Football, but I

It’s neither today nor yesterday – okay, 2014, to be precise – since Michael Fitzmaurice emerged as a political force, firstly locally, then nationally, where the fact that he is in much demand with radio and TV current affairs producers points to his popularity within the media sphere and to his profile at Oireachtas level.

A few years back, Independentminded Michael was at the centre of talks about Government formation – at one stage the symbolically all-important ministerial car seemed destined for Glinsk – but that anticipated Fitz advance fizzled out.

Since then, Michael has evolved into something of a media darling, as well as a rural champion and allround formidable politician. Over the past couple of years, there was speculation that Fitzmaurice could possibly be losing faith in the power of politics, with some observers suggesting he might actually walk away from it all. Parallel with this distinctly unscientific analysis was speculation that ‘Fitz’ might run in the European Elections, treading (presumably not softly) on the path walked by his one-time great ally, ‘Ming’.

This week, a new development, with news that Deputy Fitzmaurice is throwing his lot in with a Dáil grouping called ‘Independent Ireland’. The use of the word ‘independent’ suggests it is an alliance of independents, but in reality we’re talking here about a new party.

So it would appear that our nononsense Independent Michael Fitzmaurice has now joined a party, one he believes can be a bastion of common sense!

(Michael was a panellist on TV3’s Tonight Show on Monday night.

We wish him well in this new venture).

07

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

Crab tree from Boyle to be planted in memory of President’s beloved dog

New era dawns for Convent of Mercy One of the best known secondary schools in the region, Roscommon Convent of Mercy, is moving to coeducational status with effect from the beginning of the 2025/2026 school year.

In a short press statement issued to the Roscommon People on Wednesday afternoon, the Convent of Mercy stated the following: “As of September 2025, the Convent of Mercy Secondary School Roscommon will accept boys into first year, thus changing the status of the school from all girls to co-educational”.

On Wednesday, 7th of February, President Michael D. Higgins graciously hosted the Irish Seed Savers Association at Áras an Uachtaráin for a courtesy call.

During this special visit, the Irish Seed Savers Association presented President Higgins and Sabina Higgins with a Lough Key Crab tree, which will be planted at Áras an Uachtaráin in memory of their beloved Bernese Mountain Dog, Bród.

Bród, who passed away in April 2023 at the age of 11, had been a cherished member of the Higgins family since arriving as an 8-week-old puppy at the Áras. Over the years, Bród brought joy to the thousands of visitors who had the pleasure of meeting him during their visits to Áras an Uachtaráin.

The Lough Key Crab tree holds significant importance as it is part of the National Irish Heritage Apple Tree Collection conserved at the Irish Seed Savers Association.

This unique tree, discovered in the estate of Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, within the stump of a birch tree, boasts beautiful deep pink blossom, dark purple tinged foliage, and deep crimson crab apples.

The Irish Seed Savers Association, established in 1991, stands as an environmental organisation and social enterprise with a mission to conserve, protect, and utilise Ireland’s diverse

Representatives of the Irish Seed Savers Association present the Lough Key Crab tree to President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina at Áras an Uachtaráin.

genetic food crop heritage.

President Higgins expressed his gratitude for the meaningful gesture from the Irish Seed Savers Associa-

VALUE HEDGING & Trees Bare-Root

HEDGING & TREES Plant Now & Save

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Red & yellow-stemmed dogwoods

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Ardcarne We’re here to help Garden Centre

www.ardcarne.ie

At two great locations: Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Rd., Roscommon Town Tel: 090 662 7700 Open Monday to Saturday 9-6pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-6pm

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ARDCARNE GARDEN CAFÉ (Boyle branch) Open 7 days

tion, emphasising the importance of preserving Ireland’s agricultural heritage.

The planting of the Lough Key Crab

tree at Áras an Uachtaráin serves as a poignant tribute to Bród and contributes to the protection of Ireland’s apple tree heritage.

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

A musical feast awaits

Tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.nightandday. ie where there are a range of ticketing options. A weekend camping site ticket for one adult and two children is €149 plus a nominal booking fee.

Saturday and Sunday access is €70 per day with access for Friday performances priced at €50 plus a nominal booking fee in each case. Early book-

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL BRIEFS

Deadlines looming for applications Roscommon County Council wishes to confirm that closing dates are fast approaching for a range of funding schemes and other initiatives.

Applications are now being taken for the Community Festival and Events Grant Scheme 2024 which is aimed at providing funding for community festivals and community tourism events.

The closing date for completed applications is next Tuesday, 20th February 2024.

The Municipal Districts of Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon are inviting applications from applicants who wish to avail of funding subject to terms and conditions. For the Municipal District Funding Scheme 2024.

The funding is available under Dereliction, Infrastructure, Economic and Community Development and Tourism. The closing date

for receipt of completed online applications is Tuesday, 27th February, 2024 at 4pm. Applications are also invited for funding under the Community Strand of the Creative Ireland Programme - Creative Roscommon Grants 2024. This initiative is divided into four stands.

The themes are Community/Creative Collaboration, Creative Climate Action and Heritage Collaboration, Individual Creative Bursary – New Work and Outdoor Cultural Events. The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5pm Friday 1st March 2024.

In all cases, late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications must be made through Roscommon County Council’s website and in most cases, through the ‘My Online Services’ portal.

N

ing is advisable due to strong demand as the event is now firmly established as major part of the domestic summer season of outdoor concerts and events.

The promoters advise that the event is strictly an over 20’s event, however kids or teens under the age of 14 will be admitted if accompanied by a parent or guardian up to a maximum of two children per adult.

Night and Day Music Festival is proudly supported

by Roscommon County Council, in association with Coillte, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Newstalk Radio, Extra.ie, Lough Key Distillery, Cancer Fund for Children, The White Hag Brewing Company and Well.

Can’d Water

I

T DA H G Y

A stellar line-up of acts will perform at this year’s Night and Day Music Festival, taking place in the salubrious surroundings of Lough Key Forest Park on the weekend of June 28th to June 30th inclusive.

Tickets are now on sale for this weekend of top quality music featuring domestic and internationally acclaimed performers such as Bell X1, Mick Flannery and Damien Dempsey with many more performers to be revealed.

Other performers include the likes of Ash, The Undertones, Susan O’Neill, Gemma Hayes, The Frank and Walters and The Four of Us. Many of the performers enjoyed huge success in the 1980’s and 1990’s and are sure to receive a rapturous welcome in Boyle.

A T H R E E - D AY B O U T I Q U E M U S I C F E S T I VA L

CRY BEFORE DAWN DEA MATRONA GEMMA HAYES MIK PYRO SUSAN O’NEILL THE FRANK & WALTERS THE MERSEY BEATLES THE UNDERTONES THE 4 OF US AILBHE REDDY CALEB KUNLE CHALK DAOIRI FARRELL TRIO DEATH MILKSHAKE GROOVELINE I HAVE A TRIBE KYNSY

LAST APOLLO MEGA TRAD MORGANA ROISIN EL CHERIF SHARK SCHOOL STILL BLUE THE AFTERMATH THE KATES THE REGULARS 28-30

JUNE

2024

-

LOUGH

reception in the Royal Convention Centre, Dublin. The five shortlisted projects have been selected from over two hundred entries to this year’s awards.

‘Roscommon Water Source’ is the umbrella name for an initiative whereby Roscommon County Council in collaboration with the National Federation of Group Water Scheme (NFGWS) engaged in a Source Protection Project over a number of group water schemes within the County.

The ‘Let it Bee’ and ‘I’ve planted a tree and my garden is ‘pesticide free’ initiatives were used as educational and awareness programmes around the use of pesticides, herbicides in famring, in the community and in domestic gardens. Education programmes were also rolled out

FOREST

PA R K

M A N Y M O R E A C T S T O B E A N N O U N C E D W W W . N I G H TA N D D A Y. I E

Five local projects shortlisted for prestigious national awards Five local community projects, supported by Roscommon County Council are among the shortlisted entries for theprestigious All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2024, hosted on behalf of the AllIreland Community and Council Awards (LAMA).

The five shortlisted groups are ‘Roscommon Water Source’ in the Best Green Sustainable category; ‘Planning Roscommon Together’ in the Best Communications category; Ballyleague Resilience Park for Best Environmental project; Athleague village in the Best Town or Village Regeneration section and Castlerea Rose Festival in the Best Irish Festival category.

The event, which is sponsored

by IPB Insurance takes place this Saturday, February 17th with a gala

KEY

through schools and at community events.

Nominated in the Best Communications category, the ‘Planning Roscommon Together’ project is a unique and innovative initiative.

In early 2023, Roscommon County Council brought together key local development stakeholders to contribute to multiple local policies at the one time including the PPN’s ‘County Vision for Wellbeing’ and Roscommon’s Age-Friendly Strategy.

Athleague village has been nominated in the Best Town or Village Regeneration section. Supported by Roscommon County Council, the enhancement of the streetscape has delivered a range of benefits from economic development to enhanced community identity and

environmental sustainability.

Recognised in the Best Environmental project Ballyleague Resilience Park was part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) applied for by Roscommon County Council in partnership with Lough Ree Access For All CLG. €200,000 was allocated with additional matched funding provided by Roscommon County Council and Lough Ree Access For All. Honoured in the Best Irish Festivals category, Castlerea Rose Festival has grown significantly in recent years and is now recognised as one of the most successful family festivals in the West of Ireland.

Each of our community groups are to be commended for their nomination and are wished every success ahead of Saturday’s gala event.

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE: MOTOR TAX OFFICE 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday.

ALL OTHER SERVICES are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

PHONE SERVICES AVAILABLE from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Phone: (090) 6637100 Email: customerservices@roscommoncoco.ie

Register deadline looming Members of the public are reminded that the closing date for inclusion on the electoral register for entitlement to vote at forthcoming referenda taking place on Friday, March 8th is fast approaching.

If you are eligible to vote and not on the Register of Electors, you must apply on or before this Tuesday 20th February 2024.

Please visit www.checktheregister.ie to check one’s details.

To be eligible to vote in a Referendum, one must be 18 years of age on or before Friday, 8th March; must be living full time at the address at which you wish to be registered and must have Irish citizenship.

All completed forms must be returned by either email to regelectors@roscommomcoco.ie or to Free Post, Register of Electors FRN3, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42VR98 no later than this Tuesday.

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

Fitzmaurice joins ‘Independent Ireland’ In a notable shift in the local political landscape, Michael Fitzmaurice, Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway, has aligned with Independent Ireland, a political party recently co-founded

by Independent TDs Michael Collins (Cork South West) and Richard O’Donoghue (Limerick County).

Fitzmaurice, a vocal advocate for rural and agricultural concerns, says the time has come to build a new political party: “It’s time to build a new party that is the natural home for the majority of people and politicians and (which) will be a refuge for respectful dialogue, effective action and unyielding common sense for generations to come”.

Fitzmaurice’s participation in Independent Ireland is expected to significantly contribute to the party’s mission, bringing his experience and commitment to bear on its policies: “We will be contesting upcoming elections with a full slate of priorities and policies and they will be released in tranches of two or three policies at a time. The party’s policies will reflect the real-

world concerns of Middle Ireland”.

According to Fitzmaurice, “too often” independents and new parties fragment into “increasingly narrow camps” when what is needed is “unity, dialogue and occasional compromise”.

Leadership?

Leader of Independent Ireland, Michael Collins TD had this to say about the announcement: “We are delighted that Michael Fitzmaurice has been willing to take the leap of faith and commit to building our new party with us.

“Michael’s integrity and knowledge, combined with his experience in national politics makes him a fantastic addition to the Independent Ireland party”.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice left us under no illusions as to his intentions, or lack thereof, with respect to leading the new party into the next General Election: “Michael Collins is the Party Leader, that won’t be changing any time soon.

“Deputies Collins and O’Donoghue founded

this party. As an elected representative of the party, I intend to be fully involved in the formulation of policy and with a bit of luck will be to the forefront of government formation talks following the next General Election.

“But to answer your question, no. I have no desire to be the leader of Independent Ireland. I’m not into titles or ego, I just want to make sure the party is fit for government without compromising its principles”.

General Secretary of Independent Ireland, Richard O’Donoghue TD detailed the aspirations of Independent Ireland: “We set up Independent Ireland to build a coalition of people and politicians who genuinely want to address the real-world issues facing ordinary people across this nation”.

Welcoming Deputy Fitzmaurice to Independent Ireland, Deputy O’Donoghue said: “When it comes to building a party rooted in common sense with the goal of improving the lives of the people of Ireland, I don’t think we could have looked for a better partner than Michael Fitz”.

ATHLEAGUE BINGO – NEXT BINGO – TUESDAY 20th Feb. at 8.30pm Eircode: F42 P440

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Castlecoote Lodge Bar & Lounge

Irish Trad Session THIS FRIDAY, 16th FEB. from 9.30 pm

All welcome to join in/enjoy Refreshments served PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF DATE GOING FORWARD. The Trad Session will be held on 3rd Friday of each month.

Perfect venue for your Birthday Party or to celebrate any Special Occasion (30 to 50 people) Great venue, warm welcome, food platters free to all groups booked

Tel: 087 6335511; 087 1929932

All Sports Clubs, Active Reitirement Associations and anyone interested in Sport and Physical Acitivity based in County Roscommon are requested to attend or send a representative.

Roscommon SPCA Church gate collections

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, pictured with supporters after his election was confirmed at the 2020 General Election count in Roscommon, announced this week that he has joined ‘Independent Ireland’.

Michael ‘not ruling out’ European run ‘Right now, I intend to sit as a member of the next Dáil’ Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice, who announced on Monday that he is joining new political party Independent Ireland, has spoken exclusively to the Roscommon People about speculation linking

him to a possible European Election run this summer.

There has been strong speculation over the past while that Fitzmaurice – for many years one of the most high profile Independent TDs in the country – may have been planning to declare as a candidate in this year’s European Elections, in the Midlands-North-West constituency.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice didn’t ful-

ly scotch speculation of a European run in June: “Right now, I’m fully focused on serving my constituents and building a new party that will be fit for Government.

“The party will decide in the coming weeks who our candidates for the European Elections will be. I won’t rule out being on the ticket at this stage. But to be clear, my preference is to stay in national politics”.

Deputy Fitzmaurice, when pressed

on the issue, continued: “Look, it’s very simple. When you’re a member of a party, especially a new party, you do what is required to build that party. My individual interests might have to take a back seat to the interests of the party.

“The simplest answer I can give you is that, right now, I intend to sit as a member of the next Dáil.

But anyone who tells you that they know for certain what the future holds is a liar or fool”.

The Roscommon branch of the SPCA charity will hold their annual Church gate collections at several local churches over the weekend of the 24th and 25th of February, 2024.

Your support would be greatly appreciated. All donations collected will go directly to animal welfare in the county.

In the parish of Aughrim and Kilmore, a collection will take place at St Brigid’s Church (Dangan, Kilmore) on Sunday, February 25th. In the parish of Kilglass and Rooskey, collections will take place in St Anne’s Church (Slatta) on Saturday, February 24th, and in the Church of The Sacred Heart (Kilglass) and Church of Our lady of Mount Carmel (Rooskey) on Sunday, February 25th.

LOCALLY OWNED AND IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY!

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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11 events announced for Roscommon’s Local Enterprise Week 2024 Making it Happen

Kerrane raises Shannon Callows Flood Scheme Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway and party spokesperson on Agriculture Claire Kerrane has said that the Department of Agriculture have questions to answer on the Shannon Callows Flood Scheme which she described as “a mess”.

Deputy Kerrane said, “At our Agriculture Committee meeting this week, I raised the need for questions to be answered on the Shannon Callows Flood Scheme. My constituency colleague Michael Fitzmaurice backed this call and it was agreed by Committee that Department officials over the scheme would be asked to come before our committee to answer questions. This cannot happen quick enough.

“There are serious questions to be answered, primarily the fact that overnight this scheme went from the Shannon Callows Flood Scheme to the Shannon Callows Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Flood Scheme. I think this is a deliberate move to limit the number of farmers who can access this much-needed compensation.

“Other issues have been flagged by elected representatives and by the Save our Shannon Organisation repeatedly and have gone unaddressed. This cannot continue”.

Deputy Kerrane said that she has previously raised those farmers with lands affected by flooding of the Suck and Little Brosna River who are “locked out” of this scheme.

“I brought the flaws of this scheme to the floor of the Dáil last month to be debated. The Minister confirmed then that as of January 19th, 268 of the 277 (97%) applications have been processed and paid in respect of €736,398 on a total of 2,266 hectares.

“The Department’s own analysis estimates that approximately 2,500 hectares of grassland were impacted by flooding however, there are question marks over their Monitoring System as many farmers who have been flooded have not been offered compensation.

“Flaws identified in this scheme need to be fixed and farmers whose lands have been flooded need to be supported. They have suffered enough”, she concluded.

Small businesses and budding entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to sample 11 events aimed at helping them to start or grow their business as part of this year’s Local Enterprise Week in Roscommon.

The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, takes place from the 4th to 8th of March this year across the country.

While there are hundreds of events taking place nationally during the week, including two National Spotlight events that are available for free online, there are plenty of events in Roscommon open to all. These events will focus on supporting and helping SMEs in Roscommon to grow their businesses.

Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise, Roscommon LEO said: “Local Enterprise Week is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to take stock of where they are and to see where they can grow. Businesses will have the chance to identify what supports are available to help them become more innovative, sustainable and efficient.

“For anyone who has a great idea or the ambition to start their own business, this is the week to find out how. So online or on your doorstep, I would encourage everyone to check out the schedule of events and get involved”.

The two National Spotlight events are open to everyone and can be accessed online. The first, ‘Understanding and Leveraging Future Trends for Your Business’ on Wednesday, 6th of March looks at what are the trends that will be emerging in the short and long term and how they will affect business. The session will also delve into how you can adapt and leverage these trends for business success.

The second spotlight event focuses on the area of sustainability. The ‘Sustainability Imperative for Business Success’ session on Thursday, 7th of March will look at how sustainability is becoming a bigger and bigger factor in business survival and success.

Headlined by renowned broadcaster and science and environment expert, Liz Bonnin, it will show how the small changes in your business can make a big impact and most importantly how you can start.

Each of the 31 Local Enterprise Offices will be running a full programme of events in their area that will tackle a variety of areas relevant to small businesses and starting up. The events are open to all from budding entrepreneurs to established businesses and gives them the opportunity to get expert advice on key areas of business from financial skills, raising funds, exporting and boosting your business online to future trends

Liz Bonnin

such as sustainability and digitalisation.

Details for all the events taking place across the country during Local Enterprise Week, from March 4th to 8th, are available at Roscommon Local Enterprise Week Events Guide - Local Enterprise Office - Roscommon. https://www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon

‘Constructive meeting’ with Minister Chambers on Roscommon Post Office Oireachtas members from Roscommon-Galway, accompanied by a delegation from Roscommon County Council, had what has been described as a “constructive” meeting with Minister Jack Chambers in the Hodson Bay Athlone on Friday night last in relation to the possible moving of the An Post services from the landmark post office building in the Roscommon town.

Minister Chambers complimented the cross-party approach which was totally united on how to move forward.

The Minister made it clear he was not happy with An Post’s proposal to move its existing service to a contractor-led model, a move that would result in the An Post building being closed and a post office being established elsewhere in the town.

According to Senator Eugene Murphy, Minister Chambers indicated his desire to meet this week with An Post, while also informing those who attended Friday’s meeting that he cannot “force An Post’s hand” on the matter.

According to Senator Murphy, Minister Chambers made it clear that his preferred option would be for the service to stay in the present building.

The Minister fielded a

Pictured at last Friday’s meeting with Minister Jack Chambers were (left to right): Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council); Bernie Kearney (Chairperson, Older Persons Council); Cllr Emer Kelly, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr Liam Callaghan, Minister Chambers, Senator Eugene Murphy, Deputy Denis Naughten, Cllr Anthony Waldron, Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, Senator Aisling Dolan, Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Deputy Claire Kerrane and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice. Missing from photo but present at meeting: Cllr Nigel Dineen

number of questions from those present. He also strongly pointed out that there was absolutely no

threat to the level of service presently available in the area.

Senator Murphy expressed

his thanks to all his colleagues in the Oireachtas, to Cllr John Keogh, Chairperson of Roscommon County

Council, and to the other members of Roscommon County Council who were in attendance.

Older Persons Council at meeting

Bernard Kearney, Chairperson of the Older Persons Council, attended last Friday’s meeting between local politicians and Minister Jack Chambers, at which the future of Roscommon Post Office services was discussed.

Mr Kearney attended the meeting as part of a delegation of interested Roscommon parties that included local county councillors and Oireachtas members.

An Post recently announced that the county town postal service,

which is currently run directly by the company, will become a contractor-run post office, and there is an expectation that this change, if implemented, will lead to the closure of the current post office building.

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Swift sends Super Bowl hype to even greater heights (but count me out) Our man Frank on not watching the Super Bowl; Watching the rugby; Some thoughts on ‘forest bathing’… and the Valentine’s present choices you may have overlooked!

It’s Sunday evening as I write, and the whole world (except for me) seems to be looking forward to tonight’s Super Bowl game, with the general feeling being that the biggest ever TV audience is expected to tune into the meeting of the Kansas City Chiefs and the 49ers.

Now usually I have some clue about sport and the big sporting events, but this time I am completely in the dark.

I don’t know anything about the two teams, any of the rules of the game, how many players are on a team, how many referees or umpires there are, or even how much a touchdown or a goal kick is worth.

However, I do know that some lad on one of the teams is dating Taylor Swift, and as a result, interest in the game – which would be enormous anyway – is now stratospheric. The presence of the superstar singer at the final tonight has guaranteed an absolutely massive worldwide viewing audience.

It is said that Swift is such a powerful figure worldwide nowadays that

whoever she endorses to become the next President of America will almost be a shoo-in!

As I said, I won’t be one of those watching the big game, but it seems Prince Harry probably will, as he went back from his (very) flying visit to see his father King Charles, to present an award at a celebration of American football stars in Las Vegas on Thursday night. He cracked joke after joke as he took to the stage to present the Man of the Year award to Cameron Heyward of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and while it is not confirmed that he was paid to be there, the cynic in me would think that he hardly flew 5,456 miles back from London solely for the good of his health.

The recipient, Heyward, was so

taken aback by the presence of royalty that all he could say was “Prince freakin’ Harry. I’m in shock. That’s Prince Harry”. Over the years, there have been many sporting speeches worth remembering – including Joe Connolly’s famous one when Galway won the hurling All-Ireland in 1980 – but I don’t think Cameron Heyward’s will be up there with the great orations in almost 50 years’ time.

Over on our side of the Atlantic, we had another big Six Nations rugby weekend, and at the end of three pretty ordinary games, Ireland (as expected after our win over France) are looking pretty good for another successful championship.

And yet, despite beating Italy handsomely and keeping them scoreless in

the process, the Irish team and management will know that the performance was anything but perfect; they still have a lot of stuff to work on.

They face Wales in two weeks’ time in Dublin, and I am sure that they will have ironed out their problems in the meantime. I am confident they will realise there is no such thing as an easy Six Nations fixture!

Anyway, by the time you get this paper, the Super Bowl will have come and gone, but one thing for sure is that Taylor Swift will have dominated all the headlines. Funnily enough, while I know nothing about the Super Bowl, I now realise I know none of her songs either! I don’t think I’ll miss a lot.

And finally…

Have you heard of forest bathing?

It’s Monday evening and I have just come back from Galway, where everywhere I went there were people spluttering and coughing and wheezing and blowing noses, and now I see on my daily paper that we are slap bang in the middle of the cold and flu season.

I can imagine everyone’s rushing out for hot lemons and Panadol and all kinds of potions to ward off the symptoms of flus and colds. And yet it seems there are much easier ways of keeping up our immune systems, things which help us avoid spending miserable winter days in bed.

A walk through a forest – an exercise apparently called ‘forest bathing’ – does all sorts of things to reduce stress levels, and trees produce some things called phytoncides that improve your breathing and

help your lungs. It is said that the low death rate from breast and prostrate cancer in heavily forested regions of Japan can be linked to the phytoncides that the forests produce.

Now I have no idea if that’s true, but things like blueberries (don’t like them), broccoli (don’t like that either), and seaweed (never ate that) are supposed to have different qualities to help ward off colds and flus.

As none of them feature in my diet, I suppose I am back to hot lemons, Strepsils and the like if I am to have a cold-free winter.

Funnily enough, sleep plays a big part as well, as researchers in the Mayo Clinic (in America, not Castlebar), having dropped cold viruses into people’s noses (wonder how they do that), found that those who slept less than seven hours a night were three times more

likely to come down with a cold than those who slept for eight hours or more.

Anyway, that’s my medical advice for this week! Put on your walking boots and head into the nearest forest, and whatever you do, don’t get lost – or hyperthermia might get you where the flu won’t!

Actually, talking of Galway: a few years ago, we were all told that the bottleneck that is Claregalway would be freed up as soon as the new motorway to Galway was opened – having travelled from Galway every evening for the last three weeks or so, I can tell you that nothing could be further from the truth. It’s as bad as ever, and the mystery is why do so many of us head out the old Tuam road instead of travelling down the new motorway! I really don’t know why, but that’s the way it is.

As Valentine’s Day was this week, I decided to look up the most expensive Valentine’s Day gifts that I could buy if money was no object.

The great educator called Google told me that I could get a pair of Chopard de Rigo Vision sunglasses for €340,000! There are bits of gold and diamonds dotted round the glasses, and according to the brochure (I couldn’t even afford that), it all adds up to the perfect gift.

Then there is a €600,000 pen, a €3.1 million handbag, a €2.1 million car (a Bugatti), and finally, a watch! However, this Chopard watch is not an ordinary watch! It is decorated with 874 diamonds of special shapes and colours; it also tells the time, and – wait for it – will cost you €20 million.

Out in Spain, Columbo, my regular watch supplier on the Cabo Roig Strip, had increased his price for a ‘genuine’ Rolex to €20 last year. I complained that he had got a bit expensive, but if he can get me a ‘genuine’ Chopard, I might rise to €30 this summer!

In the meantime, SuperValu have Milk Tray at half-price this week, and we all know ‘the lady loves Milk Tray’!

for now ’Til next week, bye

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

Tuesday, 20th February 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm

, Cookery

David Leahy, Pauline Davoren, Breda Barrett and Alison Ward from GRETB pictured at the National ETB conference recently.

Locals join call for extra Deputy Principals Principals and Deputy Principals from across Ireland’s Education & Training Boards (ETBs), including Galway & Roscommon ETB, have called for an increase in the allocation of Deputy Principals in ETB post-primary schools with DEIS designation, at their national conference held recently.

Over 300 delegates were joined by Dr Katriona O’Sullivan, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Science in Maynooth University, and bestselling author of ‘Poor’, who challenged them to expect and support excellence from all their students.

“Education is all about relationships”, Dr O’Sullivan told the ETB Principals and Deputy

Principals, “and relationships require time and space. The allocation of more Deputy Principals can transform a school, freeing up school leaders to support students and teachers and develop relationships where talent can shine”.

Paddy Lavelle, General Secretary of Education and Training Boards Ireland agrees: “The Deputy Principal role is a crucial one. We are appealing to the Department to increase the allocation by between 0.5 and 1 Deputy Principal per school, depending on its size, and I believe this will make a significant impact on outcomes for our learners”.

ADVERTORIAL

Lismoil NS in ‘Creative Schools’ project Lismoil NS is in its 2nd year of being involved with ‘Creative Schools’. The creative schools programme is very beneficial to the children as it aims to give our children and young people the opportunity to experience creativity as an integral part of their education.

In Lismoil NS we place the arts and creativity at the centre of school life. As part of the Creative Schools programme, we are de-

lighted to be involved in Creative February.

From cooking, to arts and crafts, gardening and enjoying the outdoors, we try to make school life as exciting as possible.

By engaging in the arts we hope to nurture the children’s sense of confidence and well-being.

How happy our children are being creative and how proud we are of our creative children!

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

GivEnergy All-in-One System ADVERTORIAL

Storm Isha has reminded us just how vulnerable we are to power outages, especially in rural Ireland.

Standard Solar Photovoltaic systems produce electricity during daylight hours and when paired with a battery allows for energy storage. This only happens while connected to a live grid connection.

In the event of a power outage the system shuts down immediately and will not produce power or allow usage of energy from the battery until a live grid connection is restored again.

The GivEnergy All-in-One system changes all of this. With the additional GivEnergy Gateway, the All-in-One can provide whole house back-up in the event of a power failure, keeping your lights, heating and broadband running seamlessly.

The Giv-Gateway also facilitates a connection point for your solar PV system by allowing it to continue to generate energy even without a grid supply, therefore powering your home directly or adding power to the battery during this time.

The Giv-Gateway provides seamless switching between grid and battery, ensuring that your property is always powered.

The GivEnergy All-in-One is a one of a kind home battery and inverter – unrivalled for power and price point.

The GivEnergy All-in-One AC coupled system has many advantages such as 6kW continuous peak power. With this, the

charge and discharge rate of these batteries helps better take advantage of lowest energy tariffs.

Also, the system is complete with a substantial 13.5kWh useable battery pack and allows for 100% depth of discharge.

Allowance for additional energy storage of up to 80kWh will be available in the coming months.

With inbuilt isolator, CT clamp, metering, switchgear, and a gateway requiring no additional distribution board, there’s little to fit and minimal wiring.

Above all else, the All-in-One unit has a fantastic premium look and a good deal of capacity – at a very affordable price.

Local Changemaker with rare disease featured in ‘I Am Number 17’ campaign

Four-year-old Anna Fallon from Strokestown is one of the 17 Changemakers in the new ‘I am number 17’ campaign. She lives with a range of rare heart defects, collectively referred to as complex congenital heart disease (CHD). She is pictured here with her mother Fiona who also lives with CHD and is a passionate advocate. Anna Pic: Julien Behal

A new rare disease awareness campaign ‘I Am Number 17’ was launched last week in Dublin

by Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly.

The campaign was initiated and funded by Takeda, a global leader in pharmaceutical research and development, in partnership with Rare Diseases Ireland (RDI) and Rare Ireland.

It features 17 ‘Changemakers’, individuals from all over Ireland living with a rare disease, who are sharing their stories to promote better understanding and awareness of rare diseases in Ireland.

One of the Changemakers featured is four-year-old Anna Fallon from Strokestown, Co Roscommon who lives with a range of rare heart defects, collectively referred to as complex CHD. Her mother Fiona is her voice in the campaign.

The campaign title, ‘I Am Number 17’, reflects the fact that 1 in 17 people in Ireland will be affected by a rare disease at some point in their lives. The campaign will spotlight and share the lived experiences of these individuals, putting recognisable and relatable faces to the statistics.

The Changemakers have been photographed for a very special

exhibition by award-winning photographer Julien Behal which is now on public display at The CHQ Building in Dublin.

One of those featured is activist and sports journalist Joanne O’Riordan who said, “I am happy to lend my voice to the ‘I am Number 17’ campaign to raise awareness and increase understanding of rare diseases.

As someone living with a rare disease, my journey in the world of sports has taught me the power of visibility and representation”.

According to the National Rare Diseases Office (NRDO), rare diseases affect around 6% of the population in the Republic of Ireland, accounting for at least 300,000 individuals.

“Rare diseases can be devastating for patients and their families,” said Laura Egan, Rare Ireland. “The ‘I Am Number 17’ campaign is an opportunity to give a voice to those living with rare diseases and to raise awareness of the need for more research and support”.

At the launch, the results of a survey to assess knowledge and awareness about rare diseases among the Irish public were made public. The results reveal a striking disparity between awareness and understanding of

rare diseases in Ireland. While 84% of respondents claimed to have some awareness of the term ‘rare disease,’ only 13% of those who indicated awareness of the term could correctly identify a condition classified as a rare disease.

For more, visit: www.iamnumber17.ie

Minister’s comments

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly said: “I am delighted to launch the ‘I Am Number 17’ campaign. This campaign is an important step in raising awareness of rare diseases and recognition that while individually rare, collectively these conditions have significant impact in Irish society.

“I would like to commend the 17 Changemakers here today who are wonderfully captured in the photo exhibition.

Their individual experiences are so important in fostering a better understanding of these conditions which are far more common than many may think”.

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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LEFT: St Michael’s National School, Castlerea, pictured receiving their cheque for €6139.21 from Abbott employees at the Longford site.

Shauna Harvey (Castlerea), Edel Casey (Abbott), Kaspars Markitans (Abbott), Ruth McLoughlin (Drumshanbo National School in Leitrim), Helena Warnock (Abbott), Orla Egan (St Joseph’s National School in Longford), Claire Horan (Abbott), Stephen McDermott (Abbott), Bernadette Finnerty (St Michael’s Special School in Castlerea), and Joanne Jordan (St Brigid’s Special School in Mullingar) pictured alongside local students at the recent cheque presentation.

Abbott employees raise funds for local schools Abbott employees at the Longford site recently presented four local schools with a total of €24,556.84.

The money was raised to purchase sensory equipment for students with special needs, and will go

towards students in the following schools – St Patrick’s in Drumshanbo, St Michael’s Special School in Castlerea, St Joseph’s National School in Longford, and St Brigid’s Special School in Mullingar.

Elphin Men’s Group ‘Ramble-in-House’

The place to be on Friday, 16th of February from 12-2 pm is Elphin Day Centre where Roscommon LEADER Partnership, in conjunction with a local steering committee, are establishing a new Men’s Group in Elphin.

There are currently eleven men’s groups operating in the county. These are located in Ballyleague, Kilgefin, Rooskey, Strokestown, Keadue, Castlerea, Cloonfad, Dysart, Granlahan, and Ballaghaderreen, which is home to two groups.

The purpose of this initiative is to provide men who can spare a few hours with an opportunity to informally meet and interact with each other.

Elphin’s ‘Ramble-In-House’ will be a place for locals to meet locally, to enjoy the company of others by chatting and reminiscing over a hot cuppa. In many

ways, the men’s groups are designed to replace what was known as the ‘Rambling House’ where the troubles of the day were sorted!

It is proven that engagement in group structures has greatly helped in promoting wellbeing and positivity for men.

We encourage you to join us for just two hours each Friday afternoon surrounded by neighbours and friends in a comfortable setting. Throughout the coming weeks there will be plenty of activities including entertainment, storytelling, educational talks, outings and much more.

We encourage you to make a special effort to join us as everybody is welcome and we can guarantee you won’t be bored!

For further information, contact Anthony Dockery of Roscommon LEADER Partnership Company on 086 8264868.

Kilcroan Cemetery Committee in appeal for more volunteers The present (outgoing) members of the Kilcroan Cemetery Committee have retired after years of hard work in the cemetery. It is now urgent that a new committee is formed as soon as possible. The first clean-up is in April.

Kathleen Hegarty has already volunteered and at least two further members are required. Please contact Kathleen at 087 7553909 if you are interested.

Huge thanks to Michael Keane, Maureen Conneally, the late Assumpta Ward (RIP), and all past members for all the work that went into organising the previous clean-ups

and keeping the cemetery always looking so well. It is testament to their hard work over a long number of years that the cemetery was always clean and tidy.

This was done by everyone as a mark of respect to all who are buried there, and it would be sad to see this cease.

We also require people to help with the preparation and maintenance of strimmers for the monthly rota from April to October. We would be grateful if you could spare two hours on one Sunday in the year to keep your deceased families’ graves neat. Again, please contact Kathleen if

you can volunteer.

Thanks to everyone who helped with cleaning the cemetery in 2023, especially the younger people who come along on the day to help out. It is greatly appreciated.

We would like to thank the Caulfield family for the input into maintenance and upkeep of the cemetery gates, which they did so generously in memory of their late wife and mother, Patricia (RIP).

We take this opportunity to extend our condolences to all families who suffered bereavements over the past year. May they all rest in eternal peace.

From Beethoven to potholes – and the Soviet Union to Frenchpark – John Connor was one of the hidden gems of Leinster House An Appreciation Paul Bradford His radios tuned to BBC 4 and the World Service, his holidays including train journeys into the far-off regions of the Soviet Union, his music choices being more Beethoven than Beatles, his regular visits to the great museums and libraries of the world, his motions at Roscommon County Council including a birthday greeting to then Prisoner Nelson Mandela – not the expected or traditional profile of your average politician.

But there was also the ultimate grassroots’ representative who spoke eloquently and acted effectively on all the issues of concern to his Roscommon constituents. Potholes or medical cards, farm grants or school buildings – these and all matters brought to his attention were dealt with in a tenacious fashion and the chambers of Dáil and Seanad Eireann and the offices of Government Ministers were fully informed of Roscommon’s concerns.

John Connor was one of the hidden gems of Leinster House for over two decades. But his musical chairs parliamentary career between Dáil and Seanad and the general dominance of the Fianna Fáil party during these years ensured that he never had a shot at a ministerial career. And what a pity that was. From his university of Macra na Feirme, he brought an in-depth knowledge of farming and rural development and had a strong vision of how western development could be achieved. An avid believer in Ireland’s role in Europe, he had seen from his many foreign trips and engagements the absolute significance of Brussels to Ballaghaderreen and all the West.

Agriculture was of course of huge personal interest to him. And he didn’t just ‘talk the talk’ on farming issues. He modernised his own lands to develop a top class beef enterprise, and he was as much at home cutting silage with his neighbours or in the marts of his home county as he was in the Agriculture Committee at Leinster House.

However, within Leinster House he was known above all for his encyclopaedic knowledge of foreign policy. He often told me of his great interest in listening to far-flung radio stations on his shortwave radio when he was still at school, and this foundation gave him an unmatched expertise on the politics and politicians, past and present of Europe and beyond.

He greatly enjoyed his role as an Irish member of the Council of Europe and in his post-politics years he derived much personal satisfaction from his work with the United Nations and his role as a monitor of international elections.

His years in Leinster House, notwithstanding the ups and downs of political life, brought him great personal satisfaction. He worked exceptionally hard but had time left over to develop great and enduring friendships. He was highly admired and respected by colleagues from all sides of the divide and the Oireachtas staff – often the best jury – held him in the highest esteem.

His old political friend, the late Paddy Sheehan TD from West Cork, often claimed that the Dáil Chamber was the talking shop but the Constituency Clinic was the workshop! If so, John Connor was a great man in both shops!

He will be long remembered with affection and respect. May he rest in peace. *Paul Bradford is a former Fine Gael TD and Senator; he is now Chairperson of Vulcan Consulting

Crosby raises lack of creche places Roscommon county councillor Tom Crosby has said that a lack of creche places in the region is proving to be a serious issue for parents.

The Tarmonbarry-based councillor called for additional supports for parents seeking childcare places in this area, pointing out that the issue had become a “real obstacle” for people wishing to return to the workplace outside the home, “particularly since the onset of Covid, which has put further pressures on this sector in society”.

He said research has indicated that women are more likely to be impacted by lack of childcare supports – 45% of women in Ireland have some form of caring responsibilities, compared to around 29% of men.

“Parents are under serious pressure to secure places for their babies and toddlers and more places are quite evidently urgently needed,” continued Cllr Crosby.

“While financial support is also required, ultimately more dwellings/businesses are needed to cater for the increase in our population and for the rise in the numbers of people dependant on this sector.

“Our Government needs to urgently take steps to help people to cope with what is a difficult and stressful issue for so many parents all around the country”. .

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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Intense battle ahead as Connolly and Fallon in opposition, and Sinn Féin scent a seat ELECTION EYE EMMETT CORCORAN

PART THREE: Athlone Municipal District As we rapidly approach the upcoming local and European elections on June 7th, I am this week taking a look at the third and final municipal district (MD) in County Roscommon, the Athlone MD. This is the last (certainly not least) of our specials in this series of local election previews before the campaign gets underway in earnest.

The basics The Athlone MD constitutes the southernmost of Roscommon’s local electoral areas. It stretches from Athleague in its north, down to Monksland near Athlone and back out to Lecarrow. The sitting councillors are, in the order they were seated at the election in 2019 and including the first preference vote (FPV): Independent, Tony Ward (FPV 1,864) Seated first Fine Gael, John Naughten (FPV 1,465) Seated third Fianna Fáil, John Keogh (FPV 1,010) Seated fourth Independent, Donal Kilduff (FPV 879) Seated fifth Independent, Laurence Fallon (FPV 815) Seated sixth Independent, Emer Kelly (co-opted following stepping down by Ivan Connaughton FPV 1,591.

Seated second).

An Ivan-sized hole to fill Next, we will look at the nuance of Ivan Connaughton’s unexpected exit from politics in 2021. Of significant note here this time around is the fact that the second highest polling politician exited politics at that point, with Emer Kelly co-opted into his place. In the absence of Ivan Connaughton from this election,

despite his implicit support for Emer Kelly, Ivan’s almost 1600 votes can and will travel far and wide.

Although Ivan contested the 2019 local elections as an independent candidate, he had previously been elected as the Fianna Fáil candidate for his locality – and contested a national by-election and came in second for Fianna Fáil – so it is safe to assume there will be some return of these votes to that party. I think John Keogh will benefit well here.

Others will scatter among independents, and I estimate that the bulk of these will go to Tony Ward and Emer Kelly.

BOYLE

ROSCOMMON

Analysis For some time now, it has been widely rumoured that Independent Donal Kilduff, son of former Fianna Fáil councillor, Paddy Kilduff, will not be contesting the next election.

As we go to print, rumour has it that Arnold (Arnie) Donnelly may be running as an independent.

Previously an unknown quantity, Emer Kelly has been very active since her co-option to the council.

The youngest member by a country mile, she will appeal to disillusioned voters and apathetic young voters.

In theory, if she can capitalise on every single potential first-preference vote (the bulk of them at least) out there in these categories, she has a good chance of retaining her seat.

Domnick Connolly has made a return to his natural home, Fine Gael, following a long spell in the independent ranks of the local authority. He missed out on a seat in the Roscommon MD last time out when he ran as an Independent. Domnick and Cllr Laurence Fallon both left Fine Gael along with Deputy Denis Naughten following the closure of Roscommon Hospital’s A&E in 2011 by the Enda Kenny-led government.

Connolly’s return to his party and shift in constituency makes him a strong candidate for Fine Gael. If John Naughten and Domnick Connolly manage the vote well, there is

ATHLONE

the potential to take two seats.

Laurence Fallon is an experienced and well established councillor.

How the vote will split for Fallon and Connolly – previously allies in different constituencies – now that they are opponents in the same electoral area, is going to make for a tense and interesting day at the count.

Conclusion Right now, you’d have to say Tony Ward will top the poll and potentially have a large surplus.

I’m told by sources in the area that John Naughten too will exceed the quota on the first count with an even larger surplus than in 2019. John Keogh too is a safe bet this time around and with the exit of Ivan Connaughton from politics, Keogh’s core Fianna Fáil vote should be well shored up and get him over the line on the first count, or very close to it.

Keogh’s running mate, James Murray, who hails from the north of the MD near Knockcroghery, will be up against a lot of stiff opposition on his doorstep from both independents and Fine Gael.

Sinn Féin’s Joe Harney of Taylorstown, Monksland is likely to get a running mate added to his ticket, as happened in the Boyle MD this week with the addition of Leah Cull to that party’s ticket.

Given the urban population base in Monksland and Sinn Féin being in a poll position going into this election, if a second candidate in the rural area of the constituency is added to sweep rural votes, then it is likely that Sinn Féin will take a seat here.

So, it is my conclusion that there are perhaps three seats up for grabs here, and they will be won in a long and arduous stand-off between the remaining candidates all vying for surplus and elimination transfers to get them over the line.

In no other electoral area in Roscommon, and potentially in Ireland, will second, third and possibly fourth preference votes be so important. So, voters: vote early… and go all the way down the line-up!

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Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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Local secondary schools refurbish tables for Roscommon Golf Club

REGARI Wellness Workshops REGARI (Roscommon East Galway Advancing Recovery in Ireland) is a HSE-based initiative. They are holding a Registration Day for their upcoming 14-week Spring/Summer workshops on Tuesday, 20th of February between 1-4 pm at their offices adjacent to Roscommon Hospital.

People can also register at any of the 14 workshops which run every Tuesday starting on the 27th of February from 2-5 pm in Roscommon Library.

Some examples of workshops include ‘Developing our Self-

Compassion’, ‘Strategies for Managing Anxiety’, ‘Managing Setbacks’ and ‘Trauma and Healing’.

All modules developed at REGARI Recovery College are

co-produced by people who use the mental health services, their supporters, health professionals and by anyone with an interest in mental health and wellbeing.

Workshops are open to anybody over 18 years of age and are designed for those who are interested in learning more about coping with mental health challenges through education and conversation.

Everyone is welcome. If you would like more information, please contact Amanda on 087 6221335 or by email at regarirecoverycollege@gmail.com

Management at Jack’s: ‘We opened doors to avoid stampede’ The well-known venue which hosted Friday night’s youth disco in Roscommon Town has defended its response to the panic that arose during the event.

The ‘JTE Management Team’ – which has been hosting teen events for over ten years – says the disco was “staffed efficiently”.

They say the doors were opened earlier than usual due to panic amongst patrons, and in order to “avoid a stampede and potential danger to… attendees”. Nobody was injured during this process.

The youth disco began in Jack’s Live Venue in Roscommon at around 8 pm on Friday night.

Shortly before 10 pm, amidst growing panic, large numbers of those attending made it known that they wanted to exit the premises. This followed rumours about an ‘incident’ or ‘incidents’ having happened in the venue. Gardaí in Roscommon have since said that there was no serious incident and that rumours which have been circulating since Friday night are unfounded.

In their statement, posted on social media, JTE Management Team said: “The spread of unfounded rumours led to unnecessary panic. The event was sold out and staffed

efficiently but, amid this panic to avoid a stampede and potential dangers to the attendees, we opened our doors to ensure a safe exit for those who wished to leave at that time.

“We promptly contacted An Garda Siochána who thoroughly investigated all of the video footage and carried out a detailed search of the property and found no evidence of these claims whatsoever and nobody was injured.

“We deeply empathise with those who felt anxious due to these rumours. Our gratitude goes out to everyone for their cooperation, ensuring the situation was resolved safely.

“Please know, we are not taking this matter lightly.

We are dedicated to uncovering the source of these rumours and are committed to taking steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

“Before the unwarranted rumours caused distress we were heartened by the brilliant atmosphere and camaraderie among the friendly and fun crowd who joined us. JTE has been running teen events for over 10 years and has always been about creating a safe and enjoyable experience and environment for everyone and we will continue to do so”.

Recently, transition year students from all three local secondary schools – Roscommon Community College, CBS Roscommon, and the Convent of Mercy – met in the CBS Roscommon woodwork room, where, as a result of the idea of Mark Kearney (CBS board of management member and committee member of Roscommon Golf Club), they sanded, treated, and varnished over 40 tables for the golf club.

It was great to see so many students give up their Saturday to help a local club. Refreshments were provided by the men’s committee of the golf club and some green fees also, to encourage some students to try golf out!

Huge thanks from Roscommon Golf Club goes to Mr Kevin Scollan, Mr Francis Ferguson, Mr Garret Spellman, Mr Joe Mannion and Mr Noel Naughton (painting contractor) for all their advice and supervision, and to all the parents, students and teachers who were involved.

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Roscommon People Friday 24 February 2023 Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024 2023 Roscommon People Friday 24 February

Your Health ur Health & Wellbeing Wellbeing

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

Keep moving movingwith tips from Physio First! epKeep moving from h with tipstips from Physio First ysio First Located just off Main Street in Roscommon town (F42 HC94), Physio First is a physiotherapist practice offering one to one physiotherapy and a number of different exercise classes. The practice was founded and is run by Roscommon native and Chartered Physiotherapist Lauren Naughton MISCP.

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Main Street, Roscommon, Main Street, Roscommon, F42 HC94 F42 HC94

At FirstFirst we take thetake time to gettime to know a thorough assessmenta ofthorough your AtPhysio Physio we the toyou, getcomplete to know you, complete asse condition, provide a diagnosis and work with to create a treatment based your goals plan bas condition, provide a diagnosis andyou work with you to plan create a on treatment while ensuring it fits it into your lifestyle. help with your there isrehabilitation an in-house gym there is while ensuring fits into yourTolifestyle.

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AsAs ourour physiotherapists are registered CORU andwith the Irish Societyand of Chartered physiotherapists arewith registered CORU the Irish Society of Physiotherapists you can rest assured that you are receiving the most up to date andthe evidence Physiotherapists you can rest assured that you are receiving most up to da basedbased treatmenttreatment to ensure your road to recovery is successful. to ensure your road to recovery is successful.

089 4041244 Phone: Phone: 089 4041244 The clinic is situated in the heart of Roscommon Town with plentyTown of free parking availableofnearby.

The clinic is situated in the heart of Roscommon with plenty free parking We areare alsoalso fully wheelchair accessible and offer early morning, evening andmorning, weekend evening a We fully wheelchair accessible and offer early Email: info@physio-first.ie Email: info@physio-first.ie appointments in special circumstances. appointments in special circumstances.

Roscommon February 2024 2023 RoscommonPeople PeopleFriday Friday 24 16 February

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Your Health & Wellbeing Steps you can take now to Time to get ensure an active lifestyle fit in 2023? as you age ‘Just Go’ for it!

19

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

Olivia Prendergast (Right) in Just Go Fitness in Castlerea on the importance of looking after our bodies…

pendence into my elderly years, that I want to be able to sit down and stand up unaided. I want to be able to get in and out of bed unaided. So I know I have to put the work in now to ensure a better quality of life for myself in my retirement.

I need to bulletproof my body now, by strengthening my bones and increasing my muscle mass, to enable me to lead an active lifestyle later on.

As we age, our bodies go Tooreen native, Joey then opened Just Go in Bal- lenges does the average through a lot of changes, gym member face?

Ganley, established Just lyhaunis in 2018 and then both physically and menJG: Accountability is a Go Fitness in Ballyhaunis took over the gym at The tally. Our bone density big one. People can really in 2018 before opening up Hub in Castlerea in 2022. and muscle mass decrease, struggle to know what to shop in Castlerea in 2022. leaving us more prone to do in the gym. They’ll go Speaking to RoscomDD: How did Covid-19 brittle bone disease and osin and do a few minutes mon People reporter Dan affect operations? teoporosis. on the treadmill or on the Dooner this week, Joey JG: We pivoted really Anyone that knows me machines but they won’t says there has been a shift well and offered online knows I’m independent in the fitness landscape dur- classes and coaching during really be getting anywhere. and want to keep my indeJoey Ganley from Just Go Fitness.

Pic: KieranThen Croghan Having a coach or a pering that time… the lockdowns. we sonal trainer means there’s adhered to the guidelines accountability and structure.

DD: Hi Joey, tell us a bit during the reopening by Joey Ganley. about your business… offering outdoor classes.

Not just the physical side release of endorphins after Members have individual training programmes and JG: I studied business in Covid changed the business DD: Have people become alsowere when itsupportive. comes to They working out! plans within that group Just Go.accountability on your more aware of the The imporrecreation andone leisure atmembersmodelgive and itwea go. went from Here’s what of our abilities. membersbut there know how to flexibility have improved beyond The trainers, the mood and me anxiso we have those who aremembers fitness There’s also tance of exercise since you IThad Sligo andrecently: worked“Iasjoined Justbigger groups smaller to say “My firsttoday was a bit daunting very good and made me feeland stresspush to challenge myself and my wildest dreams.

I train three and journey. the whole ethos of are looking What starting out and others with open gym accessand for you’ll memin the Irish Now it ety a Go personal trainer/gym PeopleIreally liked in Castlerea in May 2023. I classes.because had built all sortsfirst of started very welcome. feelstoo. likePeople a modify moves to DD: get the bestcan members mornings a week.

Some mornings the company is brilliant had retired in December in my head, but lovely community of people all I can every session, and it’s hard to motivate yourself but Wereally feel benefits of working after themselves a bitfrom more expect at Just Go Fitness? a bit more experience. bersthe through their key fob, fitness industry? manager in Ballinrobe forand feltit so weexpectations kept that model I needed something to give mewhen reopening when I gotthe there and different still with beforeout you knowJG: it you’re liftingin smaller when you come theonline gym and maybe not going We work also to offer coachingout”. which allows them to work JG: I think at since Covidlevels, but and seven years.

It was always gym inmet Olivia keep my me active.

I was immediately put at ease. commontogoal to improve our every weekend. more than you thought do the training youliving feel great.

It’s never too late toindividual start. Just drinking groupsyou of six to eightjust peofor people further Go...! on their own people haveastrength. learned inpurpose my headand to open own I Castlerea. knew about Just Go from seeing Olivia explained to me that I could.

“If you’re thinking of joining a They’ve also learned to apple and it’s not like one big away and that involves programmes when it suits appreciate the importance gym so I started with fitness ads on Facebook, so I decided to would be working to my own “The trainers are really “Since joining, my strength and gym, I would highly recommend preciate the benefits of that workout or a boot camp. advice on nutrition and them. of health that bit more. classes in Ballyhaunis. I DD: What kind of chal-

‘Why I highly recommend Just Go Fitness’

CASTLEREA Castlerea Enterprise Hub Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Olivia: 086 102 5469 BALLYHAUNIS Ballyhaunis Enterprise Centre, Unit 4, Friarscourt, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, F35 HC66 Brian: 085 150 7336

Web: www.jgfitnesspt.com Email: info@jgfitnesspt.com

20

Your Health lth & Wellbeing ing

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Roscommon People Friday 24 February 2023

13

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

Get moving with Enhanced Motion!

Outside of physical treatments what Lead clinician and business owner Elizaa number of sports packages, includother services do you offer? beth ‘Liz’ Cummins opened the doors of ing deep tissue and sports massage and Enhanced Motion offers mobility classes Enhanced Motion back in July 2020, at sports recovery boots. Each appointment the height of the pandemic, with the aim includes a full assessment, hands-on treat- to the wider community to help improve health and wellbeing and these are suitof helping to improve lives and provide ment and exercises to take home. Clients able for all levels and abilities. the best care for those in pain. Based on are given goals and we help to keep them At 10.30 am on Mondays, we hold a Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, the busiaccountable in their recovery. ladies mobility class in Ballaghaderreen ness has continued to go from strength to What kind of clients do you work Community Centre, predominately aimed strength in the years since… with? towards women (over-50/55s). We do Tell us a bit about Enhanced Motion...

We work with people of all ages and loads of different exercises – functional Enhanced Motion is a Neuromuscuabilities. We’re lucky to work with one of movements, resistance band training, lar Therapy Clinic with myself (Liz the local GAA clubs here, Western Gaels circuit training, etc. The premise is to get Cummins), and fellow neuromuscular Ladies, as well as other sports clubs. We women out and making time for themtherapist, Conor Quinn. also have a great working relationship selves in order to get active and socialise.

What kind of services do you offer? with local doctors and they will recomParticipants have the opportunity to enjoy We have a wide range of services, includmend us to patients who are suffering a cup of tea/refreshments and a chat foling dry needling, cupping, and athletic from sports injuries or chronic pain and rehabilitation.

Clients can also avail of Motion wantNeurotherapy private treatment.

Conor McGreivy pictured at Enhanced Clinic in Ballaghaderreen.lowing the class.

At 7 pm on Monday evenings, Conor holds a mixed, foundation-level class at Ballaghaderreen Community Park called ‘Movement is Medicine’. The class aims to get underactive muscles working better and focuses on using breathing techniques to improve joint alignment and strength.

At 7.30 pm on Wednesdays, we hold a ladies ‘EMEI QI GONG’ movement class at Ballaghaderreen Community Park, open to everyone of all levels. The practice, which is older than Tai Chai, allows participants to develop their mobility, flexibility, and strength at a gentle pace.

The class teaches twelve movements that work out the whole body without having to get on the ground, like other practices such as yoga often require. The class also

focuses on breathing techniques, meditation, and relaxation.

We also give talks at the FRC and this enables people to ask us questions about their issues with mobility or pain. We also offer advice on dealing with long-term pain and give tips on breathing techniques and exercises.

This all sounds great! How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment by calling 086-3786701, emailing enhancedmotionballa@gmail.com, or visiting enhancedmotion.ie. Our clinic is open from 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm on Friday, and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturday.

You can also keep up to date by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

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Pictured is Enhanced Motion’s newest team member, Conor Quinn, who joined the practice last summer.

Conor joins Enhanced Motion team The newest member of the team at Enhanced Motion is Conor Quinn, who joined the practice last summer.

Conor graduated as a Neuromuscular Therapist with the National Training Centre in 2012 and is a fully accredited member of the ANMT (Association of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapists). He specialises in the diagnosing, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries, whether they are acute or chronic. In 2019, Conor became a Certified Functional Strength Coach (Level One and Level Two), travelling to America and Spain to finish his qualification.

Conor recently worked for five months with the Galway senior football men’s team as their Rehabilitation Coach, helping rehabilitate key players back to full fitness and onto the pitch again. His role involved postural assessment, sports therapy practices, programming, testing, retesting, and return to training/performance protocols. He also worked closely with the Corofin senior men’s team who won three club football All-Irelands in a row, guiding the team through gym sessions when he worked with the Velocity Fitness in Tuam.

Conor believes a combination of manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation can restore any athlete not only back to full function, but to a higher level before the injury occurred. His main clinical interests involve shoulder and hip rehabilitation along with treating chronic neck tightness that may bring a range of motion issues.

Roscommon People Friday 2023 Roscommon People Friday 2424 February 2023 Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024 Roscommon People Friday 24 February 2023

Your Health Health Your & Wellbeing Wellbeing &

21 19 19 19

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

‘People have a lot MentalHealth Health Mental more gold in them focus…with focus…with than they realise’ Glynis Downey Glynis Downey

Tell us aabit about yourself…

CCPE (Centre transactional analysis while the knowledge my supervisor Ballymoe Itransactional have continued ling, gender Tell us ausbit about yourself…

CCPE (Centre forfor Counselling transactional analysis while the Tell bitHEALTH about yourself…

CCPE (Centre forCounselling Counselling analysis while the identity issues, < MENTAL I’m originally from UK and Psychotherapy Education) Transpersonal isismore spiritual Brogan for his Education) supmy training.

For example, post-addiction recovery, I’m originally from thethe UK and Psychotherapy Transpersonal is more spiritual FOCUS… WITH GLYNIS I’m originally from the UK Billy and Psychotherapy Education) Transpersonal more spiritual and that’s where I Istarted in and aaMBACP and includes Eastern philosothat time.

I have completed a course bereavement, illness, life DOWNEY and that’s where I started mymy London and amam a MBACP and includes Eastern philosoand that’s where started my portinduring inLondon London and am MBACP and includes Eastern philosotraining and (Member British Associaphies.

I is work with in trauma, which awork really crises, domestic violence, training in in counselling and (Member of of the British Associaphies.

I also with artart and training incounselling counselling and (Member ofthe the British Associaphies.

Ialso also work with artand and psychotherapy.

I Ihad previously tion and Psywriting therapy.

How did you start onand important area. disorders, Tell us a bit about psychotherapy.

I had previously tion of of Counsellors Psywriting therapy. psychotherapy. had previously tion ofCounsellors Counsellors and Psywriting therapy. personality worked aanurse chotherapists).

ItItwas because I Ioffer counselling current career PTSD, low self-esteem and yourself... worked as as aasnurse forfor 38 years chotherapists).

It was because counselling forfor trauma, worked nurse for38 38years yearsyour chotherapists). was because I offer offer counselling fortrauma, trauma, before beginning own experiences and depression and anxiety, couples’ What do you stress, to name just a few Pictured is counselling psychotherapist Glynis Downey.

I’m originally from thetraining UK in inpath? before beginning mymy training my own lifelife experiences and depression and anxiety, couples’ before beginning my training in of of ofmy my own life experiences andservices depression and anxiety, couples’ Integrative and Transpersonal asas counselling, counselling, gender identity in 2001 asasas issues people may be expeand that’sand where I started I qualified Integrative Transpersonal useuse of of counselling well asoffer? gender identity Integrative and Transpersonal use ofcounselling counselling asawell well counselling, gender identity growing over a period of There’s much more aware- on your daily life. I like Psychotherapy.

I Imoved wish to others that post-addiction recovery, a issues, form of talking recovery, riencing. my training inI moved counselling Psychotherapy. to toto Counselling mymy wish to Psychotherahelp others that II Ioffer post-addiction Psychotherapy. moved my wish tohelp help others that I issues, issues, post-addiction recovery, time anyway. But yes, there ness of the services that are to describe the feeling as Ballymoe five years ago and decided to into field bereavement, illness, crises, pistdecided from CCPE (Centre therapy.

The Integrative I also work as aDowney holisand psychotherapy.

Iago had Ballymoe five years ago and thethe to move into thisthis field illness, lifelife crises, Ballymoe five years and the decided tomove move into this field bereavement, bereavement, illness, life crises, Glynis Downey Glynis Glynis Downey though you’re tied up in business was up running following work as aanurse. domestic violence, personalCounselling and Psyside ofdomestic my counselling tic massage practitioner, has been an increase since out there now too. previously worked as a forfollowing business was up and running mymy work as aasnurse. violence, personalbusiness was upand and running following my work nurse. domestic violence, personalrubber bands justthe can’t thethe withofpeople since pandemic of services that there daily life.

I Ilike describe the anan increase since pandemic the services that areare outout there life.

I like to to describe anincrease increase since the pandemic ofthe the services that are out there daily daily life. like toand describe the just aayear later.

I Iwant Since moving II PTSD, low chotherapy Education) in Iincludes Cognitive Bewhich that nurse for 38 before just a year later.

Iyears want to to thank Since moving to to Ballymoe ityity disorders, PTSD, low just year later. want tothank thank Since moving toBallymoe Ballymoe itydisorders, disorders, PTSD, low is a treatment unravel them.

I think suffering from post-Covid with people suffering from now too. feeling you’re tied up with people suffering from now too. feeling as as though you’re tied upit’s with people suffering from now too.When should feeling asthough though you’re tied up my family and friends and have continued training. self-esteem and stress, to and am a MBACP havioural Therapy,and Psyhelps with stress, muscle beginning my training inmy my family and friends and my have continued mymy training. self-esteem stress, to name my family and friends and myLondon have continued my training. self-esteem and stress, toname name important to realise that trauma.

In Ireland there someone seek post-Covid trauma. bands and just can’t post-Covid trauma.

In In Ireland in in rubber bands and just can’t post-Covid trauma.

InIreland Ireland inrubber rubber bands and just can’t mum for example, I Ihave completed aafew issues people may of the British Aschodynamics, Gestalt, and joint pains, and is very Integrative and for Transpermum in in particular encourForFor example, I have completed justjust a few issues people may bebebe mum inparticular particular forencourencour-(Member For example, have completed just few issues people may there’s lot toit’s be learned has been an When increase your help? there also been an When should someone seek unravel them.

I Ithink it’s imporhashas also been analso increase should someone seek them.

Iathink importhere has also been anincrease increase When should someone seek unravel unravel them. think it’s imporaging to move. aacourse trauma, which experiencing. of Counsellors analysis, good for our there mental health sonal Psychotherapy.

II I Isociation aging meme to make thethe move. a course in in trauma, which isand aisisaatransactional experiencing. aging me tomake make the move. course in trauma, which experiencing. from the therapy inofmen the number of men seekFirst and foremost, people number seeking your help? tant that there’s aalot in in the number of of men seeking your help? tant to to realise that there’s ajourney. lot inthe the number men seeking your help? tant torealise realise that there’s lot also want acknowledge really important area.

Psychotherapists).

It while the Transpersonal is as a form of self-care. moved sixmy also want tototo acknowledge my important area. also want toBallymoe acknowledge myandreally really important area.

You learn so much about help as well asFirst younger should always help younger people First and foremost, people learned from therapy help as as well as as younger people and foremost, people to to be learned from thethe therapy help aswell well asing younger people First and foremost, peopleseek help tobe be learned from the therapy supervisor Billy Has there been was because of my own more spiritual and includes years agoBilly and theBrogan business supervisor Brogan forfor his Has there been anan increase supervisor Billy Brogan forhis his Has there been anincrease increase yourself.

People have a people in college. It’s more when experiencing more obvious should always seek help when journey.

You learn in in college.

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You learn soso much incollege. college.

It’s more obvious should always seek help when suijourney.

You learn somuch much support during that time.

What services offer? in your services experiences and use ofoffer?

Eastern in philosophies. also Has there been an was upduring and running just a lifeWhat support that time. services dodo you demand forIfor your services support during that time.

What services doyou you offer? indemand demand for your services lotyourself. morePeople gold inhave them obvious now younger cidal thoughts or thoughts now that younger people are experiencing suicidal thoughts about People have aa now that younger people are suicidal thoughts about yourself. athan now that younger people arethat experiencing experiencing suicidal thoughts about yourself.

People have I Ioffer aas therapy. following Covid-19? well astalking mytherapy. work with art andCovid-19? writing increase in demand for year later. I want to thank counselling I offer a form of of talking following offer aform form of talking therapy. following Covid-19? they realise sometimes people are from self-harm.

Also, suffering from anxiety.

It’s thoughts self-harm.

Also, gold them than they from anxiety.

It’s or or thoughts of of self-harm.

Also, lotlot more gold in in them than they suffering from anxiety.

It’ssuffering or thoughts of self-harm.

Also,when lotmore more gold inand them than they How did you start The Integrative side Business really picked to help others that Iofmy therapy.Business your servicessuffering following my family and friends and How did you start onon your The Integrative side of of my hashas really picked How did you start onyour your wish The Integrative side my Business has really picked it’s just asometimes matterit’s ofit’s digging anxiety.

It’s really good you feel overwhelmedrealise orrealise really good that they when you feel overwhelmed and sometimes really good to to see that they cancan when you feel overwhelmed and sometimes justjust a aa really good tosee see that they can when you feel overwhelmed realise and it’s just current career path? counselling includes Cogniand ititwould been to move into this counselling forhave Covid-19? my mum in particular current career path? counselling includes Cogniupup and it would have been current career path? for decided counselling includes Cogni-I offer up and would have been are experiencing intrusive aoflittle deeper tolittle discover to see that they can take initiative help. are experiencing intrusive matter of aalittle deeper thethe initiative to to seek help. or or are experiencing intrusive matter digging a little deeper take the initiative toseek seek help. ortake are experiencing intrusive matter ofdigging digging deeper I Iqualified aaCountive Behavioural Therapy, growing over aaperiod of following myTherapy, work trauma, growing depression and Business really picked encouraging me make I qualified in in 2001 astoas aasCountive Behavioural over a period of time qualified in2001 2001 Coun-field tive Behavioural Therapy, growing over period oftime timehas take thoughts which impact it. it. it.it. the initiative to seek help. which There’s much more awareness thoughts which impact There’s more awareness thoughts impact onon your to to discover There’s much more awareness thoughts which impact onyour your todiscover discover selling Psychotherapist Psychodynamics, Gestalt, and anyway.

But yes, there been nurse.

Since moving to and anxiety, couples’ counselup and it would havemuch been the move.

I also want from to from acselling Psychotherapist Gestalt, But yes, there hashas been selling Psychotherapist from as aPsychodynamics, Psychodynamics, Gestalt, and anyway. anyway.

But yes, there has been

Glynis Downey Glynis GlynisDowney Downey Counselling and Psychotherapy Counselling Counsellingand andPsychotherapy Psychotherapy Ballymoe Ballymoe Ballymoe Private and confidential space.

Private , secure Privatesecure secureand andconfidential confidentialspace. space. www.Psychotherapyglynisdowney.com www.Psychotherapyglynisdowney.com www.Psychotherapyglynisdowney.com MBACP with British Association Counselling and Psychotherapy.

MBACP MBACPwith withBritish BritishAssociation Associationofof ofCounselling Counsellingand andPsychotherapy.

Psychotherapy.

Are you experiencing difficulties your life?

Are you experiencing difficulties inin your life?

Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such depression, anxiety, life spiritural crisis.

Such asas depression, anxiety, life oror spiritural crisis.

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having difficulties relationships work?

Are you having difficulties inin relationships atat work?

Are you having difficulties in relationships at work?

Have you experienced sexual abuse abuse and need Have you experienced sexual abuse oror abuse and need Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling help you? counselling toto help you? counselling to help you?

Please call Glynis on 085 2514394 Please Pleasecall callGlynis Glynison on085 0852514394 2514394 email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk email: email:downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

can seem like but it’s how we embrace the journey the top and back ““Life can seem like aamountain, but it’s how we embrace the journey toto the top and back “Life Life can seem like amountain, mountain, but it’s how we embrace the journey to the top and back and what we learn on the way that can helps us heal and grow and what we learn on the way that can helps us heal and grow “““ and what we learn on the way that can helps us heal and grow

22

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Your Health & Wellbeing

‘Recovery from Trauma’ course at Vita House Vita House in Roscommon town is offering an eight-week course entitled ‘Recovery from Trauma’, which is set to take place on Wednesday evenings, commencing March 6th.

The course will be facilitated

by Dr Brian McClean, a Clinical Psychologist who works with Acquired Brain In- jury Ireland, and is available both online and in-person at Vita House on Abbey Street in Roscommon town.

Dr McClean says the series of classes will explore how to better cope with trauma: “The emphasis is going to be on practical steps as to how we can get through trauma. People think of trauma as something that happened in the past but in fact it’s the way we respond to things in the present.

“It’s how we react to the body’s ‘alarm system’, how we respond to memories, and how we deal

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

with that anxiety within our- and four weeks after, is suitable selves,” he explained. for everyone.

The course will examine how “Recovery from trauma is trauma affects the human body about, number one, getting into and what people can do to deal a safe space where we are able Roscommon People Friday February and 2023 number two, with this and live more mindto be24 calm, 17 fully in the present. actually approaching memories “It’s important to remember of the traumatic incident rather that there are two types of trau- than avoiding them,” Dr Mcma,” Dr McClean added. “There Clean says. is the trauma that arrives from an “We say to ‘sit with the emofeature in this section,illicit, call 090-6634632 accident like a car crash or sud- Totion’ that those memories A ‘Keeping it Lit – Sustaining Mental Health and den death, where the experience orand thatadvertising@roscommonpeople.ie involves practising an email Wellness in Rural Communities’ event is taking is simply unbearable or intoler- activity like mindfulness or place this evening (Thursday, February 15th) at 7 able. meditation while bringing to pm in the Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea.

“But there’s another type of mind the traumatic incident”.

This is a free event focused on sustaining mental trauma where events are difThe ‘Recovery from Trauma’ health and wellness in rural communities which is ficult in an ongoing way. For course starts at Vita House on supported by the HSE and is being funded by the example, when caused by bul- Wednesday, March 8th, and runs ‘Roscommon Well Connected – Social Prescriblying or abuse. So it’s not just for eight weeks. For more inforing Project’ through Roscommon LEADER one event but a series of events mation on this or any of the serPartnership. which causes someone to put an vices on offer at Vita House, RoThis event will be compered by Castlerea naalarm up around the heart”. scommon, contact the office on tive Breege Callaghan, who has spent over 20 The Recovery from Trauma Abbey Street by calling 090 662 years working in the Roscommon mental health course at Vita House, which runs 5898, emailing info@vitahouse. services. for four weeks prior to Easter org, or visiting vitahouse.org.

Your Health & Wellbeing

‘Keeping it Lit’ event in Castlerea this evening

Vita House to host ‘Recovery from Trauma’ course < DAN DOONER

Continuous for 8 weeks Starting Wednesday, 6th March Now CPD Approved

Vita House in Roscommon town is offering an eight-week course entitled ‘Recovery from Trauma’, which takes place on Wednesday evenings commencing March 8th.

The course will be facilitated by Dr. Brian McClean, a Clinical Psychologist who works with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, and is available both online and in-person at Vita House on Abbey Street in Roscommon town.

Dr. McClean says the series of classes will explore how to better cope with trauma.

“The emphasis is going to be on practical steps as to how we can get through trauma. People think of trauma as something that happened in the past but in fact it’s the way we respond to things in the present. It’s how we react to the body’s ‘alarm system’, how we respond to memories, and how we deal with that anxiety within ourselves,” he explains.

The course will examine how trauma affects the human body and what people can do to deal with this and live more mindfully in the present.

“It’s important to remember that there are two types of trauma,” Dr. McClean adds.

“There is the trauma that arrives from an accident like a car crash or sudden death, where the experience is simply unbearable or intolerable.

“But there’s another type of trauma where events are difficult in an ongoing way. For example, when caused by bullying or abuse. So it’s not just one event but a series of events which causes someone to put an alarm up around the heart”.

The Recovery from Trauma course at Vita House, which runs for four weeks prior to Easter and four weeks after, is suitable for everyone.

“Recovery from trauma is about, number one, getting into a safe space where we are able to be calm, and number two, actually approaching memories of the traumatic incident rather than avoiding them,” Dr. McClean says.

“We say ‘sit with the emotion’ those memories illicit and that involves practising an activity like mindfulness or meditation while bringing to mind the traumatic incident”.

The ‘Recovery from Trauma’ course starts at Vita House on Wednesday, March 8th and continues until March 29th before taking a two-week break for Easter. The course then resumes for a further four Wednesdays following the Easter break.

For more information on this or any of the services on offer at Vita House, Roscommon contact the office on Abbey Street by calling 090-6625898, emailing info@vitahouse.org, or clicking www.vitahouse.org.

Main guest speaker tonight will be well-known Irish author and poet, Michael Harding. Another speaker will be John-Gerald Murphy from Lecarrow Wellness, a wellness specialist who has experience of working in the area of stress and anxiety management with rural farming communities.

The final guest speaker will be Dara Bruen, manager of the Castlerea St Kevin’s senior men’s team, who will speak to attendees about resilience, self-belief and confidence.

There will be a selection of displays from support services available in the area, answering questions you may have and providing information you may need.

23

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Your Health & Wellbeing

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

€107k presentation from Croí Night Run

HILARY’S

Acupuncture, Homeopathy & Reflexology L.Ac., HOM, NAT, B.A., P.G.C.E.

Acupuncturist, Homeopath & Naturopath

Tel. 087 91 91364

Helena O’Dwyer (Benecol, Croí’s Night Run sponsor) pictured presenting a cheque for €107,000 from the 9th Annual Croí Night Run in 2023 to Christine Flanagan (Croí’s Director of Fundraising) and Mike Cubbard (Croí’s Community and Events Fundraising Coordinator).

With special thanks to Benecol for sponsoring, the proceeds raised will go directly to supporting Croí’s significant programme of work across prevention and community support initiatives.

Join us this year as we celebrate the 10th year of the Croí Night Run on Friday, October 11th, 2024! For full details on the 2024 Croí Night Run, visit croi.ie.

Email: hilo944@yahoo.co.uk Jamestown, Clondra, Co. Longford www.hilarysacupuncture.ie

Slimming World’s ‘Free Food Festival’

eat the food you love and still lose weight!

love eat thethefoofooddyou eat still lose you weighlovet!t! and and still lose weigh

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

Slimming World ROSCOMMON

Slimming World ROSCOMMON

Gleeson’s Restaurant

Hannon’s Hotel

Wednesdays, 7:30am 9:30am Contact your local& Slimming World Consultant

Thursdays, 5.30pm & 7pm

Slimming World Castlerea and Roscommon

Call Pauline 087 1878701 Roscommon Slimming World

Contact your and localsuper-supportive Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly group today!

Trish 087 8581325 and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

Slimming World CASTLEREA O’Rourke GAA Centre, Castlerea

Wednesdays, 7pm Trish 087 8581325 Slimming World Castlerea and Roscommon slimmingworld.ie

slimmingworld.ie slimmingworld.ie

Slimming World STROKESTOWN Strokestown Sports and Community Centre

Saturdays, 9.30am Call Breanne 086 086 7377 Slimming World Strokestown with Breanne

This February, Slimming World members across Ireland are being encouraged to take part in their groups’ cook-off competitions. Members will be invited to cook up a ‘Free Food’ recipe of their own creation, share pictures, or even bring in their dish to share with other members in the group.

Plus, members will get a free copy of Slimming World’s brand-new ‘Take 5 Free’ cookbook when they commit to their weight loss with a twelve-week countdown. The ‘Take 5 Free’ cookbook is really popular as every recipe in the cookbook has just five ingredients!

Slimming World’s ‘Free Food Festival’ is a celebration of the amazing variety of Free Food members can enjoy without having to weigh, measure or count everything.

Pauline Bliss, who runs the Slimming World group in Hannon’s Hotel, says, “Free Food is at the heart of our flexible Food Optimising plan and in-

cludes hundreds of delicious, satisfying everyday foods such as lean meat, eggs, fish, pasta, potatoes, fruit and vegetables – they’re filling and low in calories”.

Trish Keegan, who runs the group in Gleeson’s Restaurant in Roscommon and in the O’Rourke GAA Centre in

Castlerea, says “Food Optimising has helped millions of people lose weight without ever feeling deprived. Members can tailor the plan to fit around their dietary needs and preferences, and create their own meals, so they can live the life they want and still lose weight. Our members love that they can eat the same foods as the rest of the family and can still eat out and socialise and lose weight”.

Breanne Farrell, who runs the group in the Strokestown Sports and Community Centre, says “In Slimming World groups, members learn to cook, shop and eat more healthily, whatever their budget.

“Slimming World has worked in partnership with Dunnes Stores to develop an exclusive food range that is perfect for those occasions when members don’t have time to cook.

There is an extensive range of these Slimming World Free Food meals in our local store, here in Roscommon town”.

Smoky ratatouille pasta (vegan) Serves four Ready in 35 minutes Ingredients • 500g fresh or frozen mixed Mediterranean vegetables (no added oil) • 2 tsp smoked paprika • 500g passata with garlic • 400g dried conchiglie pasta (or any pasta shapes) • A small pack fresh basil Method First things first: get your oven warmed up to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6.

Put the vegetables in a deep non-stick roasting tin and spray with low-calorie cooking spray, then sprinkle over the

paprika and season lightly. Roast for 25 minutes, then pour in the passata and return to the oven for another five minutes.

At the same time, cook the pasta according to the pack instructions and drain well. Take the tin out of the oven and transfer half of the veg to a food processor. Add most of the basil to the food processor and blitz to make a smooth sauce.

Combine the pasta, veggies and sauce and check the seasoning. Divide between bowls and scatter over the rest of the basil leaves to serve.

Tip: If you can’t find oil-free Mediterranean veg, you can use fresh or frozen peppers.

24

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

Bell X1, Mick Flannery and Cry Before Dawn added to Night and Day Festival line-up The Night and Day Festival has announced the addition of Bell X1, Mick Flannery, Cry Before Dawn, Morgana and Ailbhe Reddy to the line-up of musical acts for this year’s festival.

These acts now adds to the initial line-up announcement of Damien Dempsey, Susan O’Neill, Ash, The

Undertones, Gemma Hayes, The 4 of Us, Frank & Walters, and the legendary UK cover band The Mersey Beatles, who are set to headline at the County Roscommon-based festival on Friday, 28th of June.

Other new acts also added on the bill are Daoiri Farrell Trio, Dea Ma-

Roscommon GAA Senior Scór County Final 2024

This year’s Roscommon GAA Scór Sinsir County Final will take place in Kilmurry Hall on Good Friday, March 29th. Stage events will begin at 8 pm and these will be preceded by the Tráth na gCeisteanna, which will take place at 6.30 pm.

Coiste Scór Ros Comáin hopes that every club in Roscommon can enter at least one of the eight Scór events (figure dancing, solo singing, recitation/storytelling, ballad group, question time, novelty act, instrumental music, and set dancing).

Last year, Kilglass Gaels and Elphin both qualified for the All-Ireland Scór Sinsir Final in Killarney. On a special day for Roscommon Scór, Sarah Keane from Elphin was crowned All-Ireland Amhránaíocht Aonair Champion, a first for club and county at this level.

If your club would like to get involved in the upcoming Scór Sinsir competitions for 2024 and emulate the successes of Elphin and Kilglass Gaels in 2023, please contact irishculturalofficer.roscommon@gaa.ie or call 087 9471081/0879145557.

Updates will be available on social media through GAA Scór Oifigiúil and Scór Roscomáin on Facebook or @ roscommonscór on Instagram.

trona, Mik Pyro, Caleb Kunle, Chalk, Kynsy, Roisin El Cherif, Death Milkshake, Mega Trad, Last Apollo, Still Blue and The Kates, with more acts to be announced in the coming months.

The festival, which takes place between 28th and 30th of June, allows

attendees to explore the beautiful grounds and campsite at Lough Key Forest Park, Co Roscommon.

Families will also be able to avail of the on-site activities such as zip-lining courses, tree-top walks, etc.

Festival Director Brendan Hurley said: “We’re delighted to announce

more great Irish acts for Night and Day 2024. It has been a privilege to showcase so much great home-grown talent are we’re committed to continuing to do so”.

Tickets for Night and Day are on sale now at https://nightandday.ie/ for €149 for weekend camping tickets.

Glenamaddy Players to stage Bruce Graham’s The Outgoing Tide’

From left: Declan Keane, who plays Gunner’s son; Marie Coneran, who plays his wife; and Paraic Newman, who plays the part of Gunner.

Glenamaddy Players celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2022 with a team of talented actors and a skilled and dedicated crew.

The group has had huge success over the years. Qualifying for the All-Ireland Three-Act Confined finals on several occasions, their most recent such recognition was in 2023 with ‘Proof’, by David Auburn, which finished in second place at the finals in Glenamaddy.

This play is located in a summer cottage on Chesapeake Bay. Gunner (Paraic Newman) has hatched an unorthodox plan to secure his family’s future but meets with resistance from his wife (Marie Coneran) and son (Declan Keane), who have plans of their own.

As winter approaches, the three must quickly find common ground and come to an understanding – before the tide goes out. This is a riveting piece of theatre.

The great cast are served by a very committed crew who are once again determined to present the standard of professionalism the audience has come to expect over many years of drama tradition in Glenamaddy.

The Glenamaddy Players’ production is directed by Coman Keaveny and will be performed at the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy on Sunday, February 18th and Thursday, February 29th at 8 pm nightly before touring on the festival circuit in early March. This excellent play is not to be missed. Booking through Eventbrite.

Artist, Alan Clarke

Award-winning artist to create new sculpture for Galway City Award-winning artist Alan Clarke has been commissioned to develop a spectacular new sculpture for Galway City.

‘Gailbhe’ will be a stunning visual representation of Galvia or Gaillimh, who was a mythological princess of the Firbolg tribe, after whom Galway is said to be named.

The sculpture will grace the new Salmon Weir Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge. This project is funded by the Department of Transport through the Percent for Art scheme.

Rhona McGrath, Roscommon County Council Arts Officer; Sadhbh McNamara, Maeve McNamara, Owen O’Malley, Lorraine Tuck (artist) and Dympna Cribbin, Marketing Manager, Roscommon Arts Centre pictured at the Unusual Gestures exhibition by Lorraine Tuck in the Roscommon Arts Centre recently. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

25

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

GOING OUT

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

Orla O’Hara and Kasey Mannion of Orla’s Beauty in Castlerea, who came second overall in the Castlerea Christmas Display competition, pictured receiving her plaque from organiser, Chris Duffy (left) and Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Sue Carr, owner of Sue’s Boutique in Castlerea, winner of Best Store Interior in the Castlerea Christmas Display competition, pictured receiving the Noel Corcoran Shield and her plaque from organiser, Chris Duffy (left) and Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Lia Tunbridge Shepherd, owner of the Black Pearl Tattoo and Piercing Studio in Castlerea, overall winner of the Castlerea Christmas Display competition, being presented with the ‘Yer Lookin Well’ shield and her plaque by Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (left) and organiser, Chris Duffy (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Aidan Geraghty, winner of Best House Façade in the Castlerea Christmas Display competition pictured receiving the shield and his plaque from organiser, Chris Duffy (left) and Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Noreen and Michael Maxwell, runners-up of Best House Façade in the Castlerea Christmas Display competition, pictured receiving their plaque from organiser, Chris Duffy (left) and Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Ann Swift from Hell’s Kitchen in Castlerea, runner-up in the Best Pub/ Shop Interior category, pictured receiving her plaque from organiser, Chris Duffy (left) and Conor Clare of Conor’s Christmas Challenge (right) in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Michael Hawthorne, receiving the ‘Billy McCormack Shield’ and plaque on behalf of Margaret Hawthorne, winner of Best House Window in the Castlerea Christmas Display competition, from organiser, Chris Duffy in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pictured in Caufield’s Bar in Castlerea were (l-r) Joe Pearl, Tommy Finneran, Christine Mannion and Gareth Scahill. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Organisers of the Castlerea Christmas Display competition June and Chris Duffy pictured in Caulfield’s Bar in Castlerea recently.

Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pictured in Caufield’s Bar in Castlerea were Joanne Jordan and Breda Lohan Hanley. Pic: Kieran Croghan

26

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

FarmingPeople

Annual 24th SALE

In Elphin Mart on Monday evening 19th February at 7pm 35 in-calf and calved Heifers - For Sale

Contact Fred Dolan Phone: 086 8686 883

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS. ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M.

FORTHCOMING SALES: THURSDAY 29TH FEBRUARY:

SALE OF ORGANIC CATTLE

IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS. FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

Funding proposals needed for BVD programme as farm costs escalate – IFA

Castlerea MART WATCH

IFA Animal Health Chair TJ Maher said the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue must come forward with a comprehensive support package for the BVD programme, as farmers costs for testing soar.

TJ Maher was commenting following increases of 35 cent to the BVD test. Postage has increased almost three-fold since testing became mandatory in 2013, leaving farmers paying well over €2 more for each test.

“Farmers entered the BVD programme in good faith; they have invested close on €120m and met their obligations, bringing it to within touching distance of recognised BVD Freedom. It is now time for the Minister to play his part and set out his funding proposals for 2024 and future years,” he said.

The IFA Animal Health chair said the payments for last year of just €2/sample for a maximum of 25 samples per farm must be built on to cover the full extent of the testing costs which farmers have carried since the start of the programme, as this is effectively eroded following the latest cost increases.

TJ Maher said the successful conclusion of the BVD programme from a farmers’ perspective will be critical in determining if there is a future role for the AHI model and the levels of support, if any, for tackling issues such as IBR.

SAMPLE PRICES

Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue

He said farmers are rightly furious at the lack of Government support for the BVD programme to date and the behaviour of AHI in recent weeks and months in relation to the approach to IBR. “Both the Minister and AHI have a job of work to do to restore farmers’ confidence in the AHI model. The starting point for this is a satisfactory response to the onfarm testing costs for BVD,” he concluded.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

There was a larger entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Bullocks.

Bullocks fetched an average of €3.08 per kilo up to €3.89.

There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.20 per kilo up to €2.94 per kilo.

There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

We also had a large number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes.

Prices for finished lambs made up to €174. The tops for stag ewes fetched €200.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is next Wednesday, 21st of February at 11 am.

Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: LMX 575 kg €1,690, LMX 735 kg €2,080, CHX 705 kg €1,850, AUX 660 kg €1,760, LMX 755 kg €2,050, LMX 740 kg €1,890, CHX 690 kg €1,790, SIX 750 kg €1,770, LMX 615 kg €1,710.

Bullocks: CHX 620 kg €2,410,

SF Aurivo recruitment ad Sales Yard Assistant Athleague RH 125x71mm v1.qxp_Layout 1 14/02/2024 10:4

CHX 660 kg €2,360, CHX 655 kg €2,410, BBX 590 kg €2,030, LMX 700 kg €2,330, CHX 570 kg €1,950, LMX 710 kg €2,360, LMX 665 kg €2,220, CHX 685 kg €2,200, CHX 745 kg €2,380, CHX 640 kg €2,040, CHX 600 kg €2,000.

Finished lambs: 54 kgs €174, 54.5 kgs €170, 58 kgs €170, 54.7 kgs €169, 53.8 kgs €169, 49.3 kgs €163, 46.5 kgs €158, 45.1 kgs €149, 43.4 kgs €143.

Store lambs: 48 kgs €118, 38.8 kgs €115, 34.6 kgs €95, 33.6 kgs €92, 35 kgs €95.

Cast ewes made from €69 to €200 per lot.

At our most recent sale, the numbers of livestock presented for sale were slightly down due to the inclement weather and road conditions.

For those who braved the elements they were rewarded with a good trade for all classes of stock and an overall good clearance. Agents, farmers, feedlots and northern activity resulted in some very strong prices on the day.

Bullocks made up to €1940 and heifers likewise.

Dry cows made up to €2060 while the weanling rings witnessed the bulls peak at €4.18 a kilo. The heifer weanlings hit €3.72 a kilo. Breeding stock made up to €1940 while demand for the suck calves is also lively.

BULLOCKS: Ch 415kgs €1450 Ch 390kgs €1430 Lm 540kgs €1680 Ch 510kgs €1660 Ch 510kgs €1630 Ch 590kgs €1940 Ch 555kgs €1810 Ch 600kgs €1930 AA 610kgs €1730 Ch 705kgs €1850.

HEIFERS: Lm 425kgs €1360 AA 390kgs €1320 Ch 475kgs €1490 Lm 460kgs €1490 Ch 450kgs €1460 Lm 535kgs €1610 Ch 500kgs €1540 AA 520kgs €1510 Her 725kgs €1940.

DRY COWS: BAx 715kgs €2060 Lm 735kgs €2060 BBx 640kgs €1950 Lm 605kgs €1640 Fr 535kgs €1040 Fr 550kgs €860 Fr 540kgs €900. Springer cows made from €1150 to €1940.

CALVES: Calves made from €130 to €345 while runners lots made from €130 to €920 for continental types.

WEANLNG BULLS: Ch 265kgs €1110 Lm 290kgs €990 Lm 270kgs €980 BA 210kgs €830 Lm 285kgs €940 Ch 385kgs €1350 Ch 315kgs €1220 Lm 305kgs €1140 AA 410kgs €1220 Lm 350kgs €1330 BA 345kgs €1160.

WEANLING HEIFERS: Ch 255kgs €950 Ch 275kgs €930 Lm 285kgs €930 Sim 360kgs €13600 Ch 300kgs €1030 Lm 320kgs €1050 Ch 365kgs €1110 Ch 255kgs €820.

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

On Thursday, 29th of February we will hold an organic cattle sale.

RCS SERVICES GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY Camargo - 087 293 4756

SITUATIONS VACANT We’re hiring!

www.aurivo.ie/jobs

Sales/Yard Assistant Homeland Athleague

Full-time position

Please forward updated CV to careers@aurivo.ie See www.aurivo.ie/jobs for more details Closing date: 23rd February 2024

< EXPERIENCED DAIRY FARM ASSISTANT: Experienced Dairy Farm Assistant required for Gannon Farm near Glenamaddy, Co. Galway.

Candidates must have worked on a Dairy Farm in Ireland for at least 1 year and have all round farming skills, speak Fluent English and have a Driving Licence to use Heavy Tractors. A guaranteed pay of €35,000 is offered for a 39-hour week and Free accommodation will be provided. Please send your CV to Maurice Gannon, Gannon Farm, Keelogues, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway or Email: gannonmaurice@gmail.com

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

TILING

PAINTING

GARDENING

POWER WASH

27

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Business

FarmingPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 64 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, 16th February at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Dry Cows and Bullocks -----------------------Friday, 23rd February at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks Also Dry Cows and Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday, 19th February at 5 p.m.

-----------------------Tuesday 20th February @ 4 p.m.

Sale of Weanlings Bookings accepted until Thursday, 15th February at 5 p.m.

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

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m.

Gates close at 10 a.m. ************

Sheep Scanning Service

Each Wednesday - 8.30 a.m. to 10 a.m. ************

Dates for the Diary Tuesday, 5th March

Show and Sale of Weanlings

Kilronan Castle honoured at CIE Tours of Excellence Awards Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, one of Roscommon’s most popular destinations, was presented with a CIE Tours Award of Excellence for Best Hotel Accommodation at a prestigious awards ceremony in Dublin recently.

CIE Tours, the largest carrier of US visitors to Ireland every year, presented its annual awards to the hoteliers and tourism experiences which achieved approval ratings of over 92% from the 25,000 tourists who travelled to Ireland with the company in 2023.

The Awards recognise Ireland’s hospitality ambassadors, the people and businesses throughout the country who put Irish tourism on the global stage through the warmth of welcome and quality of service provided to our international visitors.

The CIE Tours Awards of Excellence were presented by Stephen Cotter, Interim CEO of CIE Tours.

Congratulating Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, Mr Cotter said: “Year on year huge effort is made by our partners to improve and enhance their offerings based on the feedback we provide to them from our annual visitor surveys. Their dedication and commitment help to maintain Ireland’s reputation as a leading destination for US visitors.

“Each of these businesses make an important contribution to Irish tourism, and to their local communities in terms of jobs and wealth creation. We are delighted to recognise Kilronan Castle and Andrew McGovern and his team, both in terms of their contribution to Irish tourism, and their contribution to the local community in terms of jobs and Pictured at the recent CIE Tours of Excellence Awards were (l-r): Stephen Cotter, Interim CEO, CIE Tours; Muhammad Aly, Kilronan Castle Estate and Spa and Lorcan O’Connor, Group CEO of CIE. Pic: John T Ohle wealth creation”.

Saturday, 9th March

Organic Sale of Cattle

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Find us on facebook

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651

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

Lowest price GUARANTEED

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Daily collection

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Local company for Hardware Show 2024 Pictured is Minister of State Neale Richmond TD alongside Chief Executive Officer of Hardware Association Ireland Martin Markey and Vice President of the Association, Senan Foley as they prepare for The Hardware Show 2024.

The Hardware Show 2024, run by Hardware Association Ireland and supported by Intact, is

expected to attract over 2,000 merchants and industry professionals from across Ireland. It serves as one of the top shows for retailers and merchants.

Roscommon-based company The Sanbra Group will be representing Roscommon as they take part in this year’s event.

The centrepiece of The Hardware Show is the 2024 Innovation Awards.

The awards celebrate new and innovative products within the industry’s prominent sectors such as Build, Garden, Home and DIY. Renowned architect Hugh Wallace is the chairperson of the judging panel.

The event will take place at the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin on Sunday, 18th and Monday, 19th of February 2024. Entry is free.

Pictured at the recent Wedding Supplier of the Year Awards which were held in Killashee House Hotel, Kildare were Carmen Goluzza and Geraldine Grealy, Marketing & Public Relations Manager of the Abbey Hotel. The Abbey Hotel were finalists in the category for best wedding venue of the year for Connaught.

28

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

29

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

FOR LEASE 25 ACRES APPROX OF LANDS LOCATED AT

COONFINLOUGH, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

TO LET

UNIT 1, STONECOURT RETAIL UNIT

OF APPROX 580 SQ FT (FRONT FACING UNIT ON THE SQUARE ROSCOMMON TOWN)

(With the benefit of the use of 2 bay hay barn, storage shed, cattle crush and pen if desired)

CONTACT CATHAL 086 1409158 For further details

Excellent Location

Cathal 086 1409158

Keith 086 0848590

NEW TO THE MARKET 3.80 ACRES TOGETHER WITH A HALF BUILT RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

DOONEEN, FOUR MILE HOUSE, ROSCOMMON

AMV: €40,000

Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796. Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 • Email: teamearley@remax.ie • Web: www.teamearley.ie

New to the market at Remax Team Earley – commercial premises in Athleague This week, Remax Team Earley are presenting to the market a commercial property in Athleague with huge potential.

Located on a prime site in Athleague Village, the property is situated on the Main Street of Athleague on the Galway route N63. Amenities in the town include schools, various shops, pubs, cafes, restaurants, public bus stops and sporting facilities, and the River Suck is a short distance away.

Located ten minutes from Roscommon Town and twenty minutes from Athlone, the property is within easy access to the ample amenities these areas have to offer.

There is huge potential for this property as it comes with over 2,769 square feet of space internally and sits on approximately 0.694 acres. Accommodation consists of: Room 1 (3.31m x 3.87m), Room 2 (3.99 x 1.99m), Entrance Hall (1.24m x 6.53m), Room 3 (3.96m x 6.10m), Room 4 (3.34m x 6.20m), and Room 5 (5.82m x 6.17m), with the first floor comprising 18.35m x 6.30m.

The BER rating is F, and the auctioneer highly recommends viewing of this investment property.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Cathal directly on 086 1409158.

30

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Property/NewsPeople

Iarstáisiún na nGardaí agus Áras Cónaithe, Béal Átha Feorainne, Ros Comáin, H53 WV65 AR DÍOL TRÍ CHEANT BEOSHRUTHA, DÉ hAOINE, AN 23 FEABHRA 2024, AR 12 MEÁN LAE. Caithfidh tú clárú ar ár suíomh gréasáin roimh ré le go mbeidh tú in ann tairiscint a dhéanamh.

• Réadmhaoin scoite dhá stór ar fáil ar shuíomh thart ar .26 acra.

• Tá 5 sheomra leapa ann, 2 chistin, 3 sheomra suí, 4 stór, 2 theach lasmuigh, bealach isteach do choisithe agus d’fheithiclí agus cúlghairdín mór.

• Suite i mbaile Bhéal Átha Feorainne le bealach isteach éasca go bailte Bhaile Átha Luain, Ros Comáin agus Bhéal Átha na Sluaighe.

• Ar an teorainn idir Co. Ros Comáin agus Co. na Gaillimhe.

• Tá siopaí, scoil, séipéal, ionad sláinte, club CLG agus ionad pobail ann.

• Díolmhaithe ó dhleacht stampála;

BREATHNÚ OSCAILTE AR AN SATHARN 10.00 – 10.45 AM Íosluach Molta: €60,000 Rátáil Fuinnimh an Fhoirgnimh: G / 173.40 méadar cearnach (1,866 troigh chearnach) TÉIGH I dTEAGMHÁIL LE: Siobhra Hennessy: (091) 564 212

Former Garda Station and Residence, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon, H53 WV65 FOR SALE BY LIVE STREAM AUCTION, FRIDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 2024 at 12 NOON. You must pre-register on our website in order to bid.

• Vacant detached two-storey property on a site of .26 acres approximately.

• Comprises 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 3 reception rooms, 4 stores, 2 outbuildings, pedestrian and vehicular access and large rear garden.

• Located in Ballyforan village with easy access to Athlone, Roscommon and Ballinasloe towns.

• On the border between Co. Roscommon and Co. Galway • Local amenities include shops, school, church, health centre, GAA club and a community centre.

• Exempt from Stamp Duty.

OPEN VIEWINGS SATURDAYS 10.00 – 10.45 AM (AMV): €60,000 (BER): G/ 173.40 sq.m. (1,866 sq. feet) CONTACT: Siobhra Hennessy 091 564 212

Pictured at the recent launch of THRIVE are (back row, l-r): NWRA staff members Catriona Meehan, Patrick Devine, Teresa Hooks, Shane Ryan, Alison Ruane and Tanya Whyte. (Front row, l-r) Michelle Breslin, Planning Advisor, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage; Minister Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, and Denis Kelly, Director, Northern & Western Regional Assembly.

New €120m fund to renovate derelict heritage buildings A new funding scheme is to provide €120m to support local authorities and their citizens to re-imagine town centres and to transform publicly owned vacant or derelict heritage buildings through renovation, renewal, and adaptive reuse.

THRIVE – the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme is funded under the Northern and Western Regional Programme and will provide local authorities with funding of between €2m and €7m to refurbish disused heritage buildings in their areas.

To qualify for a THRIVE grant to renovate a heritage building, local authorities must own the building and have first engaged in public consultation to establish how citizens would like to see the building renewed.

The scheme was launched by Minister of State for Local Government and Planning Kieran O’Donnell TD. THRIVE has been co-designed by the Regional Assemblies and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to address

European, national and regional policy objectives. It is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union and managed by the Northern & Western Regional Assembly.

Heritage buildings under the scheme are classified as structures that form part of the architectural heritage and have unique architectural, historical, archaeological or artistic qualities, or are linked to the cultural and economic history of a place.

Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell said: “I welcome the launch of the new €120m THRIVE Scheme under the ERDF Regional Programmes.

“This is an exciting scheme that will breathe new life into towns and urban centres across Ireland, so that they can function as the sustainable and vibrant heart of the communities they serve”.

Cathaoirleach of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly, Cllr John Naughten said: “I believe that THRIVE will go a long way towards kick-starting development in our

region by turning our town centres into attractive spaces for people to live and work and visit.

“THRIVE will promote a citizencentred and community-led approach to planning and design while also preserving the unique cultural significance of our heritage buildings”.

Projects are required to embrace the core values of the New European Bauhaus – sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusion.

The scheme promotes a citizencentred community-led approach to planning, design and project selection under the Town Centre First framework. Grants of between €40,000 and €200,000 are available to support local authorities with the planning and design phase.

It is a competitive funding call and with 100% grant aid available, is expected to be highly competitive.

The THRIVE scheme is managed by the Northern and Western Regional Assembly and the first call is now open and available at www.nwra.ie/ thrive.

Rents ‘continuing to spiral out of control’ Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has said that the latest RTB report shows private sector rents continuing to “spiral out of control”.

The TD added that the report also provides growing evidence of landlords within Rent Pressure Zones breaking the 2% annual rent increase cap.

Deputy Kerrane said: “The new Residential Tenancies Board rent report shows private sector rents continuing out of control. Statewide, new rents are up 11% while

existing rents are up 5%.

“In County Roscommon, new rents have risen sharply at 19.3% while existing rents are up 9%. In County Galway, new rents are up 9% while existing rents have risen by 9% also. This is in the last year alone.

“The high level of increase among existing tenants provides growing evidence of landlords within Rent Pressure Zones breaking the 2% annual rent increase cap. While it is not possible to determine the extent of non-compliance with the

RPZ cap, it is clear that it is happening.

“The RTB must set out what they are doing to enforce the rule for existing tenants and for existing properties between tenancies. To date, enforcement of the RPZ caps has been almost non-existent.

“The Government is not meeting their cost rental targets, which were too low to begin with. And increasingly Approved Housing Bodies and Land Development Agency cost rental is unaffordable.

“Government must urgently ban rent increases for all existing and new tenants and in new rentals. They must also increase the renters tax credit and put a full month’s rent back into every private renter’s pocket.

“Most importantly, they must dramatically increase and accelerate the delivery of genuinely affordable cost rental homes and of social homes as this is the only real solution to the crisis in the private rental sector”.

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane

31

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

NewsPeople

Ballygar Truckin’ presents funds raised to selected charities Members of the Ballygar Truckin’ committee presenting cheques to two very worthwhile charities, Roscommon Hospice and BNT Le Chéile, during the recent Ballygar Truckin’ 10-year anniversary event in Fallon’s Bar.

Peter Daly receiving the cheque on behalf of BNT Le Chéile from Mike John Slyman, Chairperson of the Ballygar Truckin’ committee during the recent Ballygar Truckin’ 10-year anniversary event in Fallon’s Bar.

Ballygar Truckin’ recently celebrated the success of their 10th Truck & Tractor Run which took place over the October Bank Holiday weekend last year.

The celebration took place in Fallon’s Bar and, having raised €42,760, the Ballygar Truckin’ Committee were thrilled to present €21,380 to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation and €21,380 to the BNT Le Chéile.

The Ballygar Truckin’ Committee wish to sincerely thank every member of the community and wider areas for the support shown over the Ballygar Truckin’ weekend last October.

Yet again, the committee has been overwhelmed with support for this annual event and it is this support that has ensured the growth and impact the Ballygar Truckin’ weekend continues to have on local causes in need.

Mike John Slyman, Chairperson of the Ballygar Truckin’ Commit-

tee said: “We want to thank every single person who came out to help us over the Ballygar Truckin’ weekend and supported us in whatever way that they could”. He also expressed his profound gratitude to everyone for the incredible support that the initiative has received over the years.

On completion of the 2023 annual Truck & Tractor Run, Ballygar Truckin’ celebrated an incredible milestone having now raised over €200,000 for charities and people in need since starting out in 2013.

Mike John Slyman hailed this incredible milestone and paid tribute to the fantastic community and those in surrounding areas.

Speaking on behalf of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice, Paul Foxe noted the crucial role that local fundraisers are playing in keeping the doors of the Roscommon Hospice open. He expressed his gratitude to everyone for support-

ing the Ballygar Truckin’ weekend as the funds raised will go a long way in supporting those who are availing of the services at Roscommon Hospice.

Representing BNT Le Chéile (the Ballygar Newbridge Toghergar Benevolent Fund), Peter Daly spoke of how fortunate we are to have a local Benevolent Fund to support local people.

Peter celebrated the strength of our community in supporting each other and highlighted the support that BNT Le Chéile can give to people in crisis in our community.

The Ballygar Truckin’ Committee wish to thank everyone who attended the event in Fallon’s Bar, with special thanks to the very talented Kenneth McCormack for providing music on the night.

As we continue to go from strength to strength, the Ballygar Truckin’ committee look forward to seeing you all again in October 2024 – so please save the date!

Paul Foxe receiving the cheque on behalf of the Roscommon Hospice from Mike John Slyman, Chairperson of the Ballygar Truckin’ committee during the recent Ballygar Truckin’ 10-year anniversary event in Fallon’s Bar.

More management change in HSE as new Regional Executive Officers appointed Who is Tony Canavan?

Canavan appointed for HSE West & North West region < PAUL HEALY

Six recently appointed Regional Executive Officers for the six new HSE health regions will take up their new roles on March 1st next. HSE CEO Bernard Gloster announced details of the appointments as part of implementing Sláintecare.

Each REO (Regional Executive Officer) will be the accountable officer at Health Region level, responsible for the delivery of high-quality, safe, and accessible services for the population of their region.

Following a Public Appointments Service-led process, the HSE CEO is appointing: Sara Long as REO, HSE Dublin and North East; Mar-

tina Queally as REO, HSE Dublin and South East; Kate Killeen White as REO, HSE Dublin and Midlands;

Tony Canavan is the CEO of the Saolta University Health Care Group.

He has worked in the health services in the West for over 30 years.

Over that time he has held a number of appointments with the Western Health Board in Mental Health Services, the Department of Public Health, Primary Care Services and Acute Hospital Services.

became the Saolta Group and was extended to include Letterkenny and Sligo.

In 2015, he became Chief Officer of Community Healthcare West, before returning to the Saolta Group four years later as CEO. Tony will take up his role as Regional Executive Officer, HSE West and North West on March 1st 2024.

What’s his career background?

In 2012, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer of the first Hospital Group in the country, known then as the Galway Roscommon University Hospitals Group, which subsequently

Where does HSE West and North West cover?

HSE West and North West will serve the people of Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, West Cavan, Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo.

Tony Canavan as REO, HSE West and North West; Dr Andy Phillips as REO, HSE South West, and Sandra

Broderick is in post as REO, HSE Mid West.

HSE CEO Bernard Gloster said: “The

move to the new regions, and a reformed and repurposed HSE Centre, represents a considerable change to our organisational structures.

“I am confident we have assembled a strong team of the six most senior officials in the HSE, reporting directly to me. Individually and collectively, they bring a broad range of skills and experience, placing them as the healthcare experts who will lead the next phase of health service delivery in Ireland”.

Mr Gloster added: “I want to emphasise that structural change is not the main goal of this reform. The idea behind reorganising our structures is to ensure that people experience just one health service, providing whatever care they need at the right time and in the right place. When we talk about ‘integrated care’, this is what we mean”.

He concluded by thanking the HSE staff around the country for their support and hard work “as we transition this year”.

32

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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33

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, the Board of Management of Coláiste Chiaráin, Summerhill, Crannagh Td., Athlone, are applying to the above Authority for Planning Permission for development at Coláiste Chiaráin, Summerhill, Crannagh Td., Athlone.

The development will consist of: 1. To develop a 4G full size GAA Pitch with 1.4m High Metal Fence surrounding and 2 No 13m High Ball Stops 2. To erect 6 No 21.34m high poles to provide flood lighting of 350 Lux Standard 3. To construct a 2m wide walkway around the boundaries of the pitch together with all ancillary siteworks.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Walter Gibbons, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for Retention of extension to side and front elevation of existing dwelling house and all associated site works at Cornashinnagh, Four-MileHouse, Co. Roscommon. F42 K163.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Marie Finneran intend to apply for retention permission for development at Derryglad, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon, N37 EW26.

The development will consist of (a) retention permission for an existing septic tank and percolation area, (b) retention permission for a 2 bedroom timber framed house located at an existing dwellinghouse and associated siteworks.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL GALLEYBEG, LECARROW, CO. ROSCOMMON We hereby apply to Roscommon Co. Council on behalf of the Roscommon and District Soccer League for planning permission for revisions to the plans granted under planning reference number PD/21/116 and all associated site works at the above location.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd, on behalf of our client: Orla Kelly, intend to apply for permission for development, for the site located at: Drumalagagh, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of: A. The demolition of three chimneys to the existing dwelling-house, and the demolition of an attached ancillary outbuilding.

B. Alteration to the fenestration of the existing dwelling’s front elevation.

C. The construction of a new single-storey extension to the rear of the property, and all necessary ancillary 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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Bas Scheffer, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment system and polishing filter 2. To construct porch extension to front of house, 3. To construct new entrance and driveway and all ancillary site development works at Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon, F42VF62.

Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent) on behalf of Orla Kelly.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Gina Gilleran, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to refurbish existing dwelling house, to include alterations to existing elevations and construct new side extension to same, to install new treatment system and percolation area, and all ancillary site development works at Kellybrook, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, F42 YP08.

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

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon Mobile: 086 8551835

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sheila O’Connor, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment system and polishing filter, 2. To construct single storey extension to side of house and carry out all ancillary site development works at Bellacagher, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45 F780 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

Tel: 086 8212732

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Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED < TO RENT: Lovely 3 bed house in first phase of Abbeyville Manor, Galway Road. Will suit professional couple. References required.

View 5pm to 7pm, Thursday eve, 15th February. Text: 086 8075623 for details.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.

Ph- (087) 2222874.

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 We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Paul McElhone for planning permission for the development construction of a manure pit and slatted shed with an underground slurry storage tank along with all associated site works at Lisnanuran, Hillstreet, Carrick on Shannon, 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 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 submission 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 the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742

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

Signed: Noel O’ Brien and Associates Mountbellew, Co. Galway Phone / Fax No: (090) 9679506

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Noel Beattie am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct warehouse unit along with connection to services and carry out all associated ancillary site works at Clooneybeirne Td, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon.

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED < TO RENT: Large food production unit for lease/rent, full white PVC walls and ceilings, tiled floors, mains water, 3 phase electric supply, and tank gas LPG, also large secure yard, walkin freezer and coldroom, broadband etc. Tel: 086 8538519

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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:

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Castlerea Rose Festival Committee intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct store at Castlerea Business Park, Demesne, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974. Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

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

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Lecarrow Wastewater Treatment Plant, Killoy, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

We, Uisce Éireann, intend to apply for permission for development at the existing Lecarrow Wastewater Treatment Plant site at Killoy, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

The development will provide for the upgrade of the Lecarrow Wastewater Treatment Plant and will comprise the demolition of the existing wastewater treatment plant and the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant consisting of forward feed pump sump to incorporate storm water storage complete with high level overflow and static screen, primary septic tank, RBC, final settlement tank, sludge return system, new electrical control panel and all ancillary site works.

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.

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

Signed: J.B. Barry & Partners Consulting Engineers Unit 14C, N5 Business Park, Moneen Rd, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Diffley, intend to apply for Planning Permission for developmenrt at this site Carranure Lower, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of 4 bay sheep shed and associated services and site developments 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 a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Michael Diffley

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

34

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

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Electrician Available

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

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. l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:

TOP QUALITY TURF 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver.

Phone:

083 0684011

PODIATRIST

Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

Call Owen for ground work

Phone:

086 895 3884

Tar & Chip Driveways

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120

Learn to drive with

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you?

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

Roscommon Professional Tiler Driving School available

For all foot ailments

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

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 ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214 Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

REFLEXOLOGY

Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

or email michaelkilroe123@gmail.com for all your tiling needs.

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

If so ring:

Easter Maths Revision Courses l Junior Cycle Thursday, March 28th l Leaving Cert HL 2nd & 3rd April Jacksons, The Square Roscommon Booking deposit required.

087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

Contact by phone/text:

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

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

Benefits:

• Relaxation • Stress & Pain relief • Improves circulation, digestion, sleep • Lowers blood pressure

Gift Vouchers Available

Tel: 087 2264951

ENERGY

SEPTIC TANKS

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE

• Fertility Reflexology • Antenatal Reflexology • Baby/Child Reflexology • Special Needs Reflexology • Menopause Reflexology • Cancer Care Reflexology

Applicants for the role should send their CV and cover letter to: Careers@BrandonOBrien.ie

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to the reflex points of the feet/hand to trigger the natural healing power of the body

Key skills required: Occupiers’ Liability l Good people skills and the ability to work in Public Spaces collaborativelyAccidents with colleagues; Construction Disputes l Ability to prioritise duties and liaise with appointment administrators other offices; BuildinginDisputes l Familiarity with MS Word, MSDisputes Excel and MS Access; Land l Strong English language skills; l Strong eye for and attention to detail.

Lorraine 086 3688302

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

Marina Furey B. Sc. (MNRRI) (Hons)

Brandon OBrien Consulting Engineers 11 ABBEY STREET ROSCOMMON Job Description: Office Administrator TEL:(part 09066 25005 Position: Permanent Role time considered) EMAIL: info@brandonobrien.ie Location: Roscommon WEB: www.brandonobrien.ie Responsible for: Practiceappointments areas include: l Co-ordinating day-to-day and inspections; Road Traffic Accidents l Proof readingPedestrian/Vehicle and quality control of reports; Accidents l General office administration.

Occupational Accidents

Slips, Trips and Falls

Reflexology

TILER

087 2295551

GRINDS

094 9620009

WANTED:

086 2437376

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

APPOINTMENTS

BRANDON OBRIEN CONSULTING ENGINEERS

Electrician Available Registered with Safe Electric, all electrical jobs, big or small.

Services include: l Complete wiring for new homes and extensions. l Appliance installation or rewiring. l Farm buildings, Sheds, and outdoor lighting.

Call or text Michael for dependable service: 086 1586731 Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

INSULATION < EXTERNAL INSULATION CONTRACTORS AVAILABLE: Improve the facade of your house while saving on heating bills. Call 085 2227796

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

35

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

KITCHENS

ROOFING

Richie Dooner

ALPHA ROOFING

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

1st and 2nd fix Panelling l Sliding Wardrobes l All general construction l Media wall units sprayed painted or skimmed l l

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

PLUMBING

l Slate roofs l Tiled roofs l Flat roofs, using all type of materials l Roof windows l Lead replacing l Pointing work l Leak detection l All roofing repair work

Mobile: 086 8874576 Email: info@alpharoofing.ie Web: www.alpharoofing.ie

ROSCOMMON

PMC Painting Contractors

24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroof repairs l Dry Verge Repointing l Package deal on Roofing restoration, cleaning, moss removal, replace broken tiles l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Chimney Repairs, Lead Flashing repairs l Patio Services, Powerwashing, Drains and Footpaths l Painting & Decorating l Renovations, Porches, Walls & Garden Design l Barn repairs & farm painting

For all your home Moss Removal Exterior Cleaning Patio Cleaning needs All Roof and Flat Roof repairs All types of Gutter repairs Gutter cleaning (Facia Soffits) All types of Drive-way cleaning

Commercial & Residential

on 085 7359120

Roof Repairs

Call/WhatsApp DAVID 083 069 5820

Home Improvements

Call LMC Plumbing

ROOFING

• SUPPLY AND FIT • REMODEL/UPGRADE • 3D PLAN • KITCHENS TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

LMC Plumbing & Heating

• Bathrooms/ensuite planning and design • Wetrooms Installed • Shower Unit • Oil Boilers and Stanley Boiler Range • Grant Work undertaken

Focus360 KITCHENS

l

l

l

Call James 087 6120428 ANIMAL CARE/VETERINARY

Tel: 087 6117326 < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

NASHVILLE ROOFING Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates

Phone:

089 9899912

10%

Discount with this advert.

• Cleaning & Painting Roofs of Houses, Sheds and Barns • Roofs Repairs • Cleaning & Sealing of Driveways/Tarmac • Fully Insured and work guaranteed for 5 years

CALL MICHAEL ON

089 966 1849

GROUND WORKS

GF Ground Works l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations l Fully insured l References available

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

086 4679798

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

l Doors l Floors l Stairs

Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at

email: roofingcontractors96@gmail.com

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

nashvilleroofing.ie

Phone: 083 1479301

l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

Company website

Carpenter Available

The local paper!

l Wall Panelling

Glenamaddy/ Roscommon area Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

086 8934576

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

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

ALL CREATURES

Veterinary Clinic & Shop

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

For the best care for your animal, large and small.

36

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

AtYourService BLINDS

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

CARS

GARDENING

LIFE COACHING David Duffy 087 9662678 Alan Duffy 086 3992382

www.westsidegardening.ie

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Mobile:

086 8115928 CHIMNEY REPAIRS

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

Tel: 087 0944027

CARPENTRY & FITTED FURNITURE

Aodhgan Cashin

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

Ballybride, Roscommon F42 EC59

• Fitted Kitchens • Bedroom Units • Sitting Room Units • Timber Flooring • General Carpentry

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

Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in SIGA or contact us for free Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

€3,500

091 768 768

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Tel: 086 6082597 E: aodhgan.cashin@gmail.com

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 C2 Registered & Insured. Free Quotations

FARMING

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

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

086 8229606 www.carolineburke.ie

CAREER & LIFE Coaching

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC/CIVIL and PRIVATE SECTOR COMPETENCY BASED APP FORMS * INTERVIEW MASTERING (including competency-based questions) * EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING For more details check www.carolineburke.ie

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com

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

INSURANCE CLAIMS

(FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090 6621220

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

CAROLINE BURKE

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP

WELDING & FABRICATON

Martin Mountbellew, Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Co.Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co. Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 9818153 Mountbellew, Co. Galway www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie 091 380900 |Approved 087 9818153 Product

Certified Dip in Loss Certified Dip DipAdjusting in Loss Loss Certified in

info@mhla.ie

Member of the PSAB-GI

Advisor Product Approved Product Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Regulated by the Central Adjusting Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Advisor Advisor Regulated www.mhla.ie Regulated by by the the Central Central Institute of Ireland Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Member of of the the Insurance Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Loss Member Bank Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

Certified Dip in Loss Approved Product Adjusting PROPERTY Advisor Loss Assessor Services

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

086 6002721

RECYCLING

to discuss your requirements NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Telephone: 090 66 33026

The local paper!

W: roscommonwindowsanddoors.com E: roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2pm ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

37

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DEVANEY Nora

FALLON Ollie

Convent Court, Roscommon/Tubbercurry, Sligo.

Kilcash, Rahara (17th Anniversary)

(3rd Anniversary)

KILGARRIFF Paul Ballygar, Galway

Who passed away on 17th February 2014 (10th Anniversary) R.I.P.

In loving memory of

LOHAN Joe Ballindrimley, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (and formerly Aughrim, Galway) who passed away on 14th February 2023

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com In loving memory of Nora who died on the 16th February, 2021.

Your life was one of thoughtful deeds, a helping hand to other’s needs sincere and true in heart and mind wonderful memories you left behind.

Loved and remembered by your brother Anthony, nieces Sarah, Julie, Laura, Sarah, sisters in law Janette and Nancy.

NORA We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain. to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

So rest in peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done.

We pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and very sadly missed by your dear friend Anne. Also your former colleagues, neighbours and many friends.

Nora’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Moylough, Co. Sligo on Sunday, 18th February 2024 at 10am.

May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace that she so richly deserves.

Notice re.

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

or call us on 090 6634633

In loving memory of Ollie, who passed away on February 16th 2007 Our lives go on without you but nothing is the same.

We have to hide our heartache when someone speaks your name.

Sad are the hearts that love you, silent are the tears that fall living without you is the hardest part of all.

You did so many things for us your heart was so kind and true and when we needed someone we could always count on you.

The special years will not return when we were all together.

But with love in our hearts you walk with us forever.

Always loved and sadly missed by your wife Marion, daughter Olivia, son Enda, daughter-in-law Michelle, son-in-law Aidan, grandchildren Ethan, Emma, Alisha and Robin.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 23rd February at 7pm.

MONAGHAN Mary Edmond, London and formerly Gallowstown, Roscommon

FEE Mary and George You were so very special and had the nicest ways.

You did so very much in life and never asked for praise.

Remembering you is easy Paul we do this every day but losing you is the heartache that never goes away.

You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of gold, you left the sweetest memories the world could ever hold.

Never selfish, always kind, these are the memories you left behind.

Lovingly remembered by your parents Sean and Marguerite, sister Sinead, brothers James, Niall and David, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass for Paul will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 17th February at 7.30pm.

KELLY Frank Strokestown Who passed away on the 14th February 2002 (22nd Anniversary)

Don’t think of him as gone away, his journey’s just begun, life holds so many facets this Earth is only one.

Just think of him as resting from the sorrows and the tears in a place of warmth and comfort, where there are no days and years.

Think how he must be wishing, that we could know today how nothing but our sadness can really pass away.

And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched, for nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much.

Always remembered by his loving wife Anne, sons, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchild Charlie.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Castlerea at 8pm on Saturday, 17th February 2024.

Deep are the memories precious they stay, no passing of time can take them away.

Sadly missed by all of us left behind.

Mass has been offered.

MEE Bernadette and Frank Feevagh, Dysart and Hawthorn Drive (7th and 18th Anniversary)

19th February 1998 Remembering Kenny R.I.P., Our Darling Son and Brother on his 26th ANNIVERSARY ~

(10th Anniversary) Who died 16th February 2014

Will those who think of them today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by family, relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday, 17th February at 7pm.

THANKSGIVINGS

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

The local paper!

In loving memory of Mary, who died on 16th February 2013 and George who died on 13th February 2000

CONNOLLY Kenneth

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

The Racecourse, Ballymurry, Roscommon (11th and 24th Anniversaries)

Raise a glass and recall fond memories of a scholar, gentleman and father on this day.

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

Remembered with love by your sister Kathleen Langan.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.”

Remember also his wonderful wife, Anne (nee McCrann) (2002).

You are both still guiding your sons and

grandchildren.

It broke our hearts to lose you Ken, But you did not go alone, For part of us went with you the day God called you home, The Tears in our eyes we could wipe away, But the ache in our hearts will always stay. ~ Kenny, missing you every day. Lovingly remembered.

Always loved, Mum, Dad and Alex. xxxo

PRAYER TO ST. ANNE (TO OBTAIN SOME SPECIAL FAVOUR) Glorious St. Anne, filled with compassion for those who invoke you and with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at your feet and humbly beg of you to take the present affair which I recommend to you under your special protection. Vouchsafe to recommend it to your daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted.

(Here ask for favor you wish to obtain.) Above all, obtain for me the grace of one day beholding my God face to face, and with You and Mary and all the Saints, praising and blessing Him through all eternity. Amen. Good St. Anne, mother of her who is our life, our sweetness and our hope, pray to her for us and obtain our request.

(Three times). A.K.

38

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HUSSEY Mary

CARROLL Patricia

Cooltigue Cross, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

Ballinaboy, Roscommon

(1st Anniversary)

Who passed away on 23rd February 2011 (13th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary who died on 19th February, 2023

As the first anniversary of our much loved Mary approaches, we her family express our sincere gratitude to all who sympathised and supported us in our sad loss.

We are grateful to all who attended the Funeral Home, Mass and Burial, shared kind words and memories with us and donated generously to the Roscommon Palliative Care Support Unit.

To all who telephoned, sent Mass cards, certificates of enrolment, letters and on-line condolences, to the management and staff of Roscommon University Hospital who organised a “Book of Condolence”. To Mary’s former colleagues who formed a Guard of Honour, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane as the Funeral Cortege arrived and to those who took care of parking arrangements on that day, we are most grateful.

Sincere gratitude to Smyths Roscommon for their professional and sensitive handling of all the arrangements, to those who prepared Mary’s final resting place and to Fiona and Keen Print for their kindness and patience.

Thank you to the Medical personnel at Roscommon University Hospital, Palliative Care Support Unit, Castle Street Surgery, Molloy’s Pharmacy and Westcare Homecare.

We wish to convery our deep appreciation to Fr. Eamon Conaty, Fr. Pravin Dhason, P.P. Kilbride, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin for celebrating a beautiful Funeral Mass, to Carmel for her beautiful singing and to Deacon Seamus Talbot for his many Pastoral visits to Mary.

Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows.

With tender love and deep regret we who love you will never forget.

Always loved and sadly missed by her family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 18th February at 10am.

CARROLL Rita (1st Anniversary)

Willsbrook, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away February 15th, 2023 (First Anniversary) On the First Anniversary of our Mother’s passing, we her family, David, Susan, Maurice, James, Elizabeth and Sarah, would like to thank all those who sympathised with us, who sent cards, letters, attended Marie’s Mass and supported us in so many ways.

It was wonderful to see so many people join us in celebrating Marie’s long and happy life. The kindness and sympathy we have been shown has been extraordinary, but then so was Marie.

We miss her loving spirit every day, we take solace knowing that she is reunited with her much loved husband Noel, who sadly died on 31st August 2012.

Marie’s latter years were blessed by being part of a wonderful town and community that made, what could have been a lonely time with illness, a chapter she could enjoy.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of the love and warmth shown to a truly remarkable woman.

Marie’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 18th February at 11.30am, where the lives of both Marie and Noel will be remembered and celebrated.

BRACKEN LIAM

KENNY Eamon Cloverhill, Roscommon (19th Anniversary)

(4thAnniversary)

In loving memory of a loving partner, daughter and sister, Sile, who passed away on 17th February, 2020, (Age 33).

R.I.P. Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words we will never forget, When thoughts go back as they always do, We treasure the memories we have of you.

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

BEATTIE Frank Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, Frank, who passed away on 12th August, 2019, (Age 83).

R.I.P. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed, still very dear.

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

(4th Anniversary) Who died on the 14th February 2020

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has already been offered for all your intentions.

Thank you for loving and sharing, for giving and for caring, God bless and keep you until we meet again.

Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Bracklyn House, Castle Street, Roscommon and formerly of Tralee, Co Kerry.

Grange, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon

To Adrian and staff of the Abbey Hotel and everyone who helped us in any way, thank you sincerely.

BEATTIE Sile

MOLLOY (née Foley) Marie

Anniversary Mass for Sile and Frank will be on Sunday, 18th February at 10am in Rahara Church.

In loving memory of Rita who passed away on 20th February 2023

First Anniversary Mass for Mary will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, February 24th at 7pm

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

In loving memory of Eamon Kenny, who died on February 13th 2005

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

Loved and Always Remembered by your sisters Yvonne and Jackie, brothers Michael and John, sisters-inlaw Clare and Ann, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass for Rita will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Sunday, 25th February at 12 noon.

Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day.

No longer in our life to share, but in our hearts, you’re always there.

Deeply missed and loved always by his children Teresa, James, Tim and Mike and their families.

Liam’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Friday, 16th February at 7pm.

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget.

No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Always remembered by your loving wife Pauline and family and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 17th February at 7pm in Cloverhill Church.

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39

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES REYNOLDS Sadie & Harry Clooncullane, Elphin, Co. Roscommon (7th and 30th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Sadie, who died on 14th January, 2017, and Harry, who died on 20th February, 1994

KILDUFF Mary

Quietly today your memories are kept No need for words, we will never forget When thoughts go back, as they always do We treasure the memories we have of you Always lovingly remembered by their sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and families.

Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin on Sunday, 18th February at 11.30am.

COYNE Teresa Turville, Tremane, Roscommon Who died 17th February 2008 (16th Anniversary away from home)

Of all the special gifts in life however great or small, to have you as our Mum was the greatest gift of all.

May the winds of love blow softly and whisper in your ear “We love and miss you Mum and wish that you were here” Deep in our hearts, your life is kept to love and cherish, not forget.

No more tomorrows we can share but yesterdays are always there.

A silent thought, a secret tear keeps your memory ever near in our hearts forever.

Remembered with love every day by, Joe, Adrian, Linda, Matthew, Adrianna, Mark, Anne, Clement and Isla.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 17th February at 7pm.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Simon Coyle for Planning permission for the construction of 8 detached dwelling houses complete with the installation of a waste water treatment system/tertiary treatment and infiltration area, for demolition of 2 derelict buildings, for the provision of storm water attenuation/connection to existing storm water drainage system, for the provision of a compensatory flood water storage area, for the provision of a public path fronting the site along the R357 road, for the provision of a refuse collection storage area, for the creation of a new entrance onto the public road, for the connections to the existing public utilities and all necessary landscaping/ancillary siteworks at Carricknagat, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon.

5 Circular Road, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 16th February 2014

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Deep are the memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away.

Lovingly remembered by Hugh, Anne, Thomas, Eddie, Jenni, Ruth and Evelyn.

Email or call for Sample Pack

THANKSGIVINGS 3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request).

There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. L.H. UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request).

The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.MK.

Signed: Magliocco Creative Design Ltd Architects Phone: 083 4265825

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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Anthony and Sinead Blackwei,r intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct a dwelling-house, domestic shed, proprietary waste water treatment system with soil polishing filter, associated siteworks, along with submission of supporting Natura Impact Statement at Carrowduff and Garbally, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Anthony and Sinead Blackweir.

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

PRAYER FOR THE INTERCESSION OF ST. PIO OF PIETRELCINA Dear God, You generously blessed Your servant, St. Pio of Pietrelcina, with the gifts of the Spirit. You marked his body with the five wounds of Christ Crucified, as a powerful witness to the saving Passion and Death of Your Son. Endowed with the gift of discernment, St. Pio labored endlessly in the confessional for the salvation of souls. With reverence and intense devotion in the celebration of Mass, he invited countless men and women to a greater union with Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Through the intercession of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, I confidently beseech You to grant me the grace of (here state your petition). Glory be to the Father… (three times). Amen. A.K.

E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

UNFAILING NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideals. You who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your Perpetual Glory. Amen. Mention your request. While making the request, promise to either publish this prayer to circulate the favour. Say prayer for three days. After the third day, the request will be granted. L.M.

Submit your Classified online

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PLANNING EXTRA

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

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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mark MacDonagh, intend to apply for Permission for the decommissioning of an existing septic tank and percolation area serving an existing dwelling house, and replace with the installation of a new sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with all other associated site works.

At Culleenaghamore Townland, Kilglass, 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

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

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40

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

Hurlers taste first league loss After an excellent win against London in round one, Roscommon senior hurlers slumped to a nine-point defeat against Tyrone in Carrickmore last Sunday in the Allianz League Division 2B. Full-time score: Tyrone 0-20 Roscommon 0-11.

Roscommon competed well in the first quarter and led at one stage by 0-4 to 0-3, but Tyrone took over before the break and they were ahead by 0-12 to 0-6 at half-time.

Tyrone maintained their dominance in the second period and ran out comfortable winners in the end. Roscommon will now travel to Wicklow on Saturday week in round three.

Manager Kevin Sammon says that although it was disappointing to lose the match, he is looking forward to the rest of the season.

“We don’t like to lose any game, but it’s only the second round of the National League. We are only getting to know the players and we are learning a lot as we go on. We will put this behind us now and get ready for the Wicklow match” he said.

Roscommon: Brendan Quinn; Mark Ward, James Dillon, Jason Martin; Adam Donnelly, Conor Cosgrove, Darragh Finn (0-1); Jack Donnelly (0-1), Michael Hussey; Sean Canning, Declan Leonard, Brendan Mulry; Conor Mulry, Robbie Fallon, Mickey Joe Egan (0-6). Subs: Cian Murray for Egan, James Hardiman for Hussey, Paddy Fallon (0-3) for B Mulry.

Conor Mulry from Four Roads started in the full-forward line for Roscommon for their match against Tyrone in the Allianz National Hurling League. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ladies denied by injury-time equaliser Roscommon’s Ladies footballers are in a great position on the Lidl National League Division Three table after a draw against fellow top of the table side Clare in Ennis last Sunday. In fact it took an injury-time point from the home side to deny Ollie Lennon’s side a third win on the spin.

Playing with the aid of the elements, Roscommon dominated the firsthalf exchanges and led by 1-6 to 0-2 at half-time. Aisling Hanly was the Roscommon goalscorer in the 17th minute, and with Lauren Shanagher, Aisling Feely, Laura Fleming and Saorse Wynne all prominent, they were in a good position at the break.

Clare improved in the second period and Fidelma Marrinan’s goal in the 47th minute saw the sides level. Laura Fleming’s free edged

Roscommon ahead in the 58th minute, but Marrinan’s point from long-range in the 4th minute of injury-time saw the home side rescue a point. Final score: Clare 1-7 Roscommon 1-7.

Roscommon: Helena Cummins; Aine McGrath, Ellen Irwin, Aisling McAuliffe; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Saoirse Wynne, Caoimhe Cregg; Laura Fleming (0-3), Aisling Shanagher; Lauran Shanagher (0-1), Kate Nolan, Sinead Farrell; Aisling Hanly (1-1), Aisling Feely (0-2), Judy McDermott. Subs: Aoife Gavin for Feely, Niamh Feeney for Farrell, Aimee O’Connor for L Shanagher, Ella Thompson for Nolan.

Note: Roscommon face Sligo in round four of the league this Sunday in Keash at 2 pm.

GAA results Lidl Ladies NFL Division Three Roscommon 1-7 Clare 1-7 Allianz NHL Division 2A Tyrone 0-20 Roscommon 0-11

GAA fixtures Saturday, February 17th Allianz NFL Division One At Croke Park: Dublin v Roscommon.

5 pm Sunday, February 18th

Close quarters! Dunmore’s Robert Heneghan and Carrick-on-Shannon’s Darragh Gardiner in action during the Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Final last Saturday in Bekan. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Lidl Ladies NFL Division Three At Eastern Harps: Sligo v Roscommon.

2 pm

41

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Creggs face Tuam in league semi-final Creggs’ first team take on Tuam at home on Saturday in the Connacht J1A League semi-final with a 7 pm kick-off. The winners will take on the Connemara All-Blacks in the final at the Dexcom Stadium.

Having won the league last year, the pressure is on to win this game and give themselves a chance of winning the double.

Creggs Seconds: Creggs secured an important bonus point 36 points to 8 win over OLBC at a windswept Dexcom Stadium in Sunday’s J1C league game.

A very dominant first half by Creggs saw them score five tries, four of which were converted, which meant that Creggs went in 31-3 ahead at the break.

Creggs had to play into a strong wind during the second half but a fine try midway through killed off any hopes of an OLBC victory. Creggs face Ballina in the J1C league next Sunday at home with a 2.30 pm kick-off.

They will be seeking another victory to maintain their push for a place in the league final against unbeaten Galwegians on March 3rd at the Dexcom Stadium.

Women’s senior team: Hard luck to Creggs’ senior women’s team who lost to OLBC RFC in the final of the Invitational Plate by 29-5 on Sunday at the Dexcom Stadium in Galway.

This is the first year of competitive rugby for most of the squad and the scoreline doesn’t reflect the effort and improvement in only their fourth game.

Boys U-16s: Creggs U-16s boys team got their cup involvement underway when they travelled to Sligo on Saturday. In a tightly

contested game Creggs came out victorious, 15-12.

This win for Creggs put them in the driving seat in the group stages of the cup. With three more games on the way, a win on opening day means a lot.

Their next scheduled game is against Dunmore in two weeks’ time.

Boys U-14s: Creggs U-14s boys played at home against Ballinrobe on Saturday afternoon.

Creggs, who were still mending their wounds from the recent league final, came into this game Creggs’ seconds team pictured ahead of their J1C clash with OLBC last Sunday. with all guns blazing. From the start to finish the home team dominated and ran out comfortable winners on a scoreline of 40-0. Next up for this team is a trip to Ballina next Saturday for round two.

Mini Section: Creggs RFC Mini Section had big numbers again on Saturday morning.

Thanks to everyone for turning up.

Energia AIL: On Saturday, Galway Corinthians RFC took on Skerries RFC in the Energia Creggs U-16s boys team pictured before their cup match against Sligo last Saturday.

League game played on Creggs 4G surface. This was a home game for Corinthians, but as their home pitch was waterlogged the game was moved to Creggs.

Ex-Creggs player and coach Pat Cunningham is the current coach with Corinthians.

Lotto: Creggs Lotto was not won and now lies at €12,100.

The lucky dip winner was Valarie Connally.

We ask members, families and friends of the club to support us by joining the lotto on www. creggsrugby.ie.

Creggs U-14s boys team pictured before their match against Ballinrobe last Saturday.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

BUCCANEERS RFC

Buccs home to Queen’s in a ‘must win’ clash Buccaneers square up to Queen’s University in what is now the most important fixture of the season for both clubs when they clash in the Energia All-Ireland League

at Dubarry Park on Saturday.

Kick-off for this Division 1B battle, sponsored by Ganly’s of Athlone, is 2.30 pm.

Buccs U-20s: Buccaneers U-20s face a stiff test when

they play Galway Corinthians in the JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier Two on Sunday. The action at Corinthian Park kicks off at 3 pm.

Buccs lose out to Old Wes-

Cian McCann scores his and Buccaneers’ second try against Old Wesley during their Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B game last Saturday.

ley: In-form Old Wesley inflicted a 42-17 defeat on an understrength Buccaneers in their Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B game played on a bright afternoon at Energia Park, Donnybrook, last Saturday.

This was the Pirates’ heaviest defeat in this season’s AIL as the Dublin side, on the back of four successive victories, make a late run for the promotion play-offs.

Old Wesley commanded the first half and went in 21-7 ahead at the break. Three tries for the Dublin team in six minutes early in the second half killed the game as a contest and despite a few late scores from Buccs, the game ended 42-17.

Buccs U-16s: Buccaneers U-16s squad travelled to play Galway Bay for the

third time this season and made it a hat-trick of victories over the westerners.

The 39-5 win was comfortable for the Athlone team but stiffer challenges await this talented group.

Buccs U-14s: Buccaneers U-14s commence their Connacht Cup campaign with a home fixture against Carrick-on-Shannon on Saturday. 1.30 pm kick-off.

Interpro Finals: The finals of the PwC girls U-18 Interprovincial championship take place in Dubarry Park on Sunday. The action commences at 1 pm.

Senior Cup Final: The Connacht branch has brought forward the date for the Senior Cup final between Buccs and Sligo to Saturday, March 9th. Sligo won the toss to host the decider at Hamilton Park.

Soccer fixtures Friday, February 16th RDFL Premier Division Castlerea Celtic v Boyle Celtic. 8 pm

Saturday, February 17th RDFL Reserve League Dunmore Town v Skyvalley Rovers. 12 pm Ballinagare Manor v Shiven Rovers. 12 pm Boyle Celtic v Roscommon Utd. 12.30 pm CP Ajax v Moore Utd. 12 pm

Sunday, February 18th CFA Women’s Shield Quarter Final Gurteen Celtic v Castlerea Celtic. 2 pm RDFL Premier Division St John’s Athletic v Shiven Rovers. 2 pm Moore Utd v Ballaghaderreen. 2 pm CP Ajax v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm RDFL First Division St John’s Athletic B v Glen Celtic. 11 am Ballinagare Manor v Moylough ’79. 2 pm RDFL Second Division Rahara Rovers v Roscommon Utd. 11 am Kilkerrrin Utd v Ballaghaderreen B. 11 am Cam/Dysart v St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh. 11 am RDFL Women’s League St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh v Shiven Rovers. 2 pm Kilkerrin Utd v Ballaghaderreen. 2 pm

42

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

SportsPeople

Racing mourns the late Maureen Mullins Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

Maureen Mullins, widow of the late Paddy and matriarch of the Mullins dynasty, has passed away at the age of 94. RIP. Maureen and Paddy had four sons and a daughter. Her eldest son Willie is a champion trainer as was Paddy, George has an equine transporting firm, Tony and Tom are both trainers, and her daughter Sandra McCarthy is also a trainer.

Her grandchildren are following in the family footsteps with Patrick (Willie’s son), Tony’s son Danny, Tom’s sons David and Charlie, George’s daughter Fiona and son and Emmet all involved.

Danny won the Grand National on Rule The World for Mouse Morris in 2016 and Emmet is also making a name for himself in the training ranks having won the Grand National with Noble Yeats in 2022.

racing action is on the all-weather at Dundalk with stall for the first opening at 3.47 pm.

Saturday racing is at Gowran Park in Kilkenny featuring the Grade 2 Steeplechase and the Grade 3 Trial Hurdle, both sponsored by Red Mills at 1.42 pm.

On Sunday, racing is at Punchestown with a 1.35 pm start with the QuinnBet Grand National Trial Chase and Madigan Group EBF Sheila Burke Novice Hurdle, both listed races.

Sunday when his Fun Fun Fun was a winner for owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, ridden by Daryl Jacob in the listed novice hurdle.

He also won the Opera Hat Mares Chase at Naas on Saturday with Allegorie De Vassy, ridden by Paul Townend.

On Tuesday, the same owner’s Coco Masterpiece led home stablemates Ballygunner Castle and Fishery Lane in a 1,2,3 in the bumper, at the rescheduled Thurles meeting.

Powerstown Park in Clonmel sees the start of Irish racing this weekend starting at 1.10 pm today (Thursday).

Tomorrow (Friday) evening the

Terrestrial TV racing coverage on Saturday starts with ITV covering four races from Ascot, including the Grade 1 Ascot Chase with the Denman and the Game Spirit Chase, both Grade 2 races. They also cover two races from Haydock including the Grade 2 Rendlesham Hurdle, and finally the Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novice Chase from Wincanton.

Mullins’ success

Man of the moment WP Mullins was successful on a raid to Exeter on

Weather again hit racing last week on both sides of the Irish Sea with Thurles and Doncaster abandoned due to waterlogging track this day week and Thurles being refixed for last Tuesday.

Cross-channel, Bangor on Friday, Uttoxeter and Warwick on Saturday all fell victim to the weather last week. Today (Thursday) both Leicester and Newcastle are subject to inspection.

The ground at Clonmel and Gowran is heavy, and if travelling to either

ing dreams was gathering a beautiful momentum.

The great sportspeople touch our lives in such positive ways. They sprinkle joy and excitement into the lives of people all over the world. When a household name, or any sportstar with a significant profile, dies at a young age – and perhaps at their peak – it leaves a monumental void. In keeping with what it is about sport that appeals so much to us, we often feel robbed by the sudden loss of the further greatness we expected to witness.

Senna was a three-time Formula One champion by the time of his tragic death in 1994, when the Brazilian superstar crashed into a barrier while leading the San Marino Grand Prix.

When 23 people lost their lives in the Munich air disaster in 1958, Duncan Edwards was the most famous of the eight Manchester United players who died. Those of us who never saw him play have been left in no doubt by those who did… that Edwards was destined to become one of the greatest footballers of all time. Superstars like the late Bobby Charlton spoke in awe of England’s lost footballing prince.

Johnny Owen never reached the top of his sport, and his name won’t register with most readers of this column.

But I thought of him this week when the awful news broke of the death (at the age of 24) of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum.

Poor Johnny Owen. One November day in 1980 I happened to tune into an early evening magazine-type news programme (similar to The One Show now) on one of the English TV chan-

nels. A segment featuring a young boxing hopeful, Johnny Owen, caught my attention. This was a classic underdog tale. Owen, a fragile looking young Welsh boxer, had surprisingly secured a tilt at the WBC world bantamweight title, though the programme left viewers in little doubt about the extent to which he was a long shot. It would be by far the biggest fight of his young life.

Watching the very likeable young man shyly respond to the reporter’s questions, it was impossible not to immediately root for this largely unknown underdog. Very slight of frame, nervous, humble, respectful, Johnny Owen endeared himself to TV viewers that night. In truth, I remember thinking he had the look of a man who did not believe he could win.

Nobody could have foreseen the tragic postscript to what had started out as a heartwarming story, a celebration of the human spirit. The fight took place in Los Angeles the following evening (the interview with Owen had been recorded). The young Welsh man had a torrid night. Knocked down three times, a pounding which he resisted with incredible courage. Sadly, Johnny Owen left the ring on a stretcher. Tragically, he never regained consciousness.

Seven weeks after the fight, he died in a Los Angeles hospital. I remember thinking how heartbreaking it was that he had left his native Wales to follow his dreams, never to return. He never became world champion, but Johnny Owen was a hero.

Ivo Van Damme was a brilliant middle-distance runner during a golden era in athletics. He had many great races with one of my all-time sporting heroes, Eamonn Coghlan. Van Damme died in a car accident in 1976, aged just 22. A young boy in Rooskey at the time, I was stunned. Young sportstars in their prime weren’t meant to die.

Of course, just as destiny tends not to distinguish between rich and poor, it has little regard for distinguishing between the famous and the rest, or

This weekend’s racing

On TV

SPORTS DESK Paul Healy

When sporting world loses a young sportstar…

When a young sportsperson dies unexpectedly, first and foremostly it is a tragedy for the deceased and their loved ones. It also touches the hearts of millions of people. One thinks of Ayrton Senna (34), Ivo Van Damme (22), Duncan Edwards (21), Johnny Owen (24), and so many others whose lives prematurely ended just as the pursuit of their sport-

A statue, in Wales, in memory of the late boxer, Johnny Owen.

Weather woes

Maureen Mullins (RIP), left, pictured with grandson Patrick, son Willie and his wife Jackie.

venue, check that racing is on.

favourite, Galopin Des Champs.

The Willie Mullins-trained eightyear-old Grangeclare West, winner of both his starts over fences, including the Grade 1 Neville Hotels Novice Chase at Leopardstown at Christmas, is out for the season, including the Cheltenham Festival.

Mullins, the master of Closutton, is the most successful trainer in Cheltenham Festival history with 94 winners and he is odds-on to make it 100 or over this year. His large team is led by Gold Cup odds-on

Gavin Cromwell, with seven wins from 19 raiders he has sent over the Irish Sea, hopes that Limerick Lace, 4/1, and Brides Hill, 7/1, will run well in the penultimate race the Mrs Paddy Power Mares Chase on the fourth day of the festival.

They are set to tackle the drifting Dinoblue, from 4/5 to evens, and last year’s runner-up Allegorie De Vassy, 7/2, who won the Opera House in Nass last weekend, both trained by Mullins, who has won two of the three runnings of the race.

Grangeclare out for the season

Racing News

never-to-be-witnessed great feats that Kiptum would have thrilled the world with, not least at the upcoming Paris Olympics. The light of his young life amongst us may have faded, but the eternal glow born of his greatness will live on, and it will inspire current and future generations.

Ireland march on in ‘Six Nations’

Ireland remain on course for possible back-to-back Grand Slams following a totally one-sided game against Italy in the Six Nations Championship on Sunday.

Italy were within three points of England on the opening weekend, but they had no answer to Ireland’s ruthlessness.

When you can rest over a third of your starting 15, keep the opposition scoreless, and run in five tries in a 36-0 win, you know you’re going nicely.

Another gold for Aoife Kenyan long-distance runner and current marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum (24) died in a traffic accident on Sunday.

for that matter between the supremely gifted and the… well, not quite as gifted. There have been many more top sportspeople who sadly died much too young.

These recollections are prompted by the tragic death last Sunday of Kelvin Kiptum, the Kenyan long-distance runner who was the marathon world record holder at the time of his passing. Just 24 (the same age as Johnny Owen), he died in a car crash which also claimed the life of his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. It is only natural that sports fans will think of the now

Congratulations to Castlerea boxers Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke, who represented Ireland with distinction once again when competing in the prestigious 2024 Strandja international tournament in Bulgaria.

Aoife O’Rourke won gold at the weekend, defeating Thai boxer Baison Manikon on a split decision to win the 75kg crown. Significantly, she had defeated two-time Olympic medal winner Qian Li in the semi-final. It was Li who knocked O’Rourke out of the 2020 Olympics.

Aoife’s sister Lisa reached the quarter-finals where she missed out on a semi-final spot, losing on a 4:1 split decision to Aneta Rygielska from Poland.

43

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

SportsPeople

Tully denies Community All-Ireland date for men’s College in shootout drama DARTS

darts team

The Hannon’s Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Darts League continued last weekend with some superb darts on show. Here are the results – Round 14: Holly Tree 5 McDermott’s 2 (5-3 on bonus points); Cosy Bar 5 Sportsman’s 2 (6-2 on bonus points); Flanagan’s 4 An Bothar Rua 3 (6-3 on bonus points); Spell’s 6 Hollywood 1 (7-1 on bonus points); Dalton’s v The Village Inn was cancelled. Round 9 rescheduled game: Holly Tree 2 Spells 5.

Our next fixtures, to be played on Friday, February 23rd, are as follows: McDermott’s v Cosy Bar; Sportsman’s v An Bothar Rua; Spells v Flanagan’s; Village Inn v Holly Tree; Hollywood v Dalton’s.

All-Irelands this weekend: The Roscommon Men’s A darts team are travelling to the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, Co Meath this weekend for the annual All-Ireland tournament.

There are high hopes of success following strong showings in recent challenges along with this year’s West Coast Challenge.

Attempting to win their first ever title at senior level, Roscommon Community College lost out in the cruellest way possible when they were beaten in a penalty shootout

by St Cuan’s of Castleblakeney after a thrilling Connacht Colleges Senior football D final played at Duggan Park in Ballinasloe last Saturday.

Indeed it was a Roscommon youth, St Brigid’s’ Jack Tully, the St Cuan’s goalkeeper, who broke the hearts of the Roscommon Town side as he saved three penalties in the shootout, the Galway side winning 3-2. The teams had been level – St Cuan’s 0-14 Roscommon 2-8 – at the end of extra-time.

RCC led by 1-3 to 0-2 at half-time,

helped by a Brian Keegan goal. Indeed the Roscommon school, managed by Conor Devaney and James Martin, led into injury-time, but the East Galway side levelled the scores with a late point.

In extra-time Castleblakeney were the better side and took a three-point lead. However, a super goal from Ryan Dowling edged

O’Rourke wins gold in Bulgaria

tts u p t r o h S (News from local golf clubs)

ATHLONE

Congratulations to Maeve Davis (30) who won the recent women’s weekly 12-hole stableford with a score of 28 pts. Orla Kinahan (37) came in second with 24 pts.

BOYLE The Spring League is well and truly underway.

The winning team for round one was the pairing of Susan O’Mahoney and Mary O’Hara, followed in second place by Moira Egan and Tish Perry. Lee McKillen and Noel McKenna salvaged something for the men of the club by coming third!

Round two is currently underway and Round three takes place from the 17th to the 25th of February. If your team are unable to complete any round due to other commitments that round can still be played before the 25th of February.

The Captains Drive-In marks the official start of the golfing year in the club. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, March 10th.

Membership fees are now due. A full list of the fees and payment arrangements is available on boylegolfclub.com.

Our Junior Golf programme (including professional lessons) restarts in the club in mid-April.

We will be releasing full details in a few weeks.

RCC ahead again by a point.

The Galway side levelled the scores again in injury-time, meaning the dreaded penalty shootout was required, leading to the irony of a Roscommon player being instrumental in the title going to Castleblakeney, with Tully the hero of the hour with those vital penalty saves.

Aoife O’Rourke pictured with the other finalists after winning the gold medal in last weekend’s 75 kg final at the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament in Bulgaria.

Castlerea’s Olympian Aoife O’Rourke won the gold medal in the 75 kg final at the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament in Bulgaria last Sunday.

The 26-year-old Tarmon native, who has already qualified for the Paris Olympics, defeated Baison Manikon of Thailand on a 3:2 split decision.

Aoife had a very impressive tournament overall, comfortably defeating her rival Elzbieta Wojcik of Poland in the quarter-final before beating double Olympic and triple world championship medallist Qian Li of China in the semi-final.

Lisa O’Rourke, Aoife’s sister, unfortunately missed out on a semi-final spot having lost her quarter-final bout to Poland’s Aneta Rygielska last Thursday.

ATHLETICS

Roscommon AC athletes impress There were super runs from Roscommon AC U-11 & U-13 girls Cross Country teams on Sunday in Dundalk IT when they took part in the 123.ie National B All-Ireland Cross Country Championships.

A fantastic performance by Roscommon Athletics Club’s Juliette Fallon saw her win an individual All-Ireland medal in the U-13 girls race which took place over a challeng-

ing 1500m course with 129 girls taking part on the day.

Sarah Kelly also produced a super run, just missing out on an individual medal by one spot, followed by her teammates, Ciarra Keane and Maria Godzic, who between them brought the Roscommon AC team home in 4th place overall, narrowly outside the team medals.

The U-11 girls took on the 100m course and

were also outstanding, led home by Anna Godzic coming in 21st overall in a field of 129 competitors, with Charlotte Fallon, Katie Kelly and Doireann Fallon combining well for a strong team finish of 13th overall.

Eyes turn next towards the indoor track in Athlone for the Connacht Indoors, taking place on 24/25th of February, when we hope to see some further development and success.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON Flynn’s Bar Spring League team results after round two – Team 1: 155 pts; Team 2: 174 pts; Team 3: 196 pts; Team 4: 146 pts; Team 5: 153 pts; Team 6: 175 pts; Team 7: 173 pts; Team 8: 175 pts; Team 9: 184 pts; Team 10: 152 pts; Team 11: 177 pts.

The best ladies score was 23 pts set by Margaret Kiloran and the best gents score was 24 pts set

by Leo Noone.

After round two, Phil McWeeney’s Team 3 have an 11-point lead with an excellent score of 97 pts. Round three runs until Sunday, February 18th.

The lotto jackpot is €2,325. This week’s winner of €30 was Oliver Curran.

CASTLEREA Congratulations to 2023 Golfer of the Year Gerry McLoughlin who recently received his prize from sponsor Color Communications.

Well done to Gerry on a great year of golf and thank you to Color Communications for their continued sponsorship.

Juliette Fallon… came 6th overall in a field of 123 runners.

Ros AC U-13 girls team, who came 4th overall: Maria Godzic, Ciarra Keane, Juliette Fallon and Sarah Kelly.

Ros AC U-11 girls team, who came 13th overall: Charlotte Fallon, Katie Kelly, Doireann Fallon and Anna Godzic.

44

Roscommon People Friday 16 February 2024

SportsPeople

Roscommon need to find best form for daunting date with Dubs Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Allianz National Football League Division One: Dublin v Roscommon in Croke Park on Saturday at 5 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

There is always something special about a game against Dublin in Croke Park, and this Saturday’s meeting between Roscommon and the current All-Ireland champions is certainly no different.

It is not entirely clear what approach Dublin are taking to this league campaign. One would presume that they don’t want to be relegated again. Or do they care? Dessie Farrell and his selectors have been looking at many squad players in their matches so far, both of which they have lost by a single point.

Against Mayo, none of the players who started for the Dubs in the number one to number seven positions began the All-Ireland final last year. The likes of Stephen Cluxton, Mick Fitzsimons and James McCarthy have yet to feature in this league campaign and the chances are that they will be kept in reserve for the championship.

In contrast, the likes of Lee Gannon, Gary McEneaney and the returning Jack McCaffrey are likely to feature against Roscommon. They played well against Mayo. Further up the field, there will be many familiar faces, including Brian Fenton, Con O’Callaghan, Ciaran Kilkenny, Cormac Costello and Colm Basquel.

I know it’s early days yet, but Roscommon have not found their mojo in this campaign so far. At this stage of last year’s campaign, the Rossies already

Roscommon’s Eoin McCormack fends off Dublin’s Brian Fenton during their clash in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship at Croke Park in Dublin last year.

Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

had four points. At present, they are on just one. The second-half display against Tyrone was poor, while some of the exchanges in that arm wrestle against Galway were ponderous and negative.

It is good to have the St Brigid’s contingent back. Davy Burke needs all his top players to be available. One problem area is midfield. Tyrone bossed that sector in Omagh, while Paul Conroy was the dominant

personality in the recent game against Galway. With Brian Fenton in the Dublin engine room, it is vital that Roscommon get some traction in that sector.

Dublin have looked very good at times in their opening league games, but they have also shown some vulnerability in defence.

They conceded three goals against Monaghan and a very soft one against Mayo, so there is hope for Roscommon if they

AROUND THE GROUNDS

can be a bit more ambitious in attack. The likes of Enda Smith, Ben O’Carroll and Diarmuid Murtagh could take advantage.

When the sides met in the championship last year it ended honours even and there was plenty of controversy over the famous ‘six-minute possession period’ which ended in a Roscommon score. It was interesting to note that at the end of the season, after Dublin had won

the Sam Maguire Cup, they admitted to having changed their system of play after that game against Roscommon, adopting a more attacking brand of football.

In a strange way, Dublin losing to Mayo was a bad result for Roscommon as the Dubs will go into Saturday’s game in a very determined fashion. The league may not be Dublin’s priority, but they won’t want to lose a third game in succession and will ex-

Seamus Duke

Derry v Monaghan in Derry on Saturday at 5 pm

Kerry v Mayo in Tralee on Saturday at 7.30 pm

Tyrone v Galway in Omagh on Sunday at 1.45 pm

If you have a few euro to spare, then a bet on Derry to win the league this year might be a wise investment. They went all out against Kerry, which paid off. Last time out, they easily beat Tyrone. Now Derry have Monaghan at home and should be able to make it six points out of six.

Kerry’s fleet-footed Clifford brothers were back in the fold against Monaghan and they are certainly a different team with them on board.

Mayo will be very happy to have four points on the board thus far. They will probably still have four after this one.

An interesting clash in prospect here. Galway need the points; the sooner they get all their big game players back, the better for Padraic Joyce’s side. Tyrone were brought back down to earth against Derry last time out. This one may well end in a draw.

pect to win this one.

Roscommon want to stay in Division One and I expect Davy Burke’s men to give this everything on Saturday. Roscommon are capable of giving any team, even the best, a run for their money. However, all the circumstances surrounding this match point to a Dublin win. Naturally, I hope I’m wrong.

Prediction: Dublin.

Best wishes to Roscommon against Dublin on Saturday…

From loyal Rossie

Owen McManus in Wexford Come on the Rossies!