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There is speculation this week that the major Ballymurray-Knockcroghery Bypass project could be deferred for more than a decade due to budgetary constraints. While planning of the bypass has been steadily progressing, there are indications now that a number of mooted road projects will not be financed as part of the 2021-2025 phase of the National Development Plan. Some projects which don’t progress in the short-term will be allocated funding in the 2026-2030 period, while others will be pushed out to 2030 and beyond. Roscommon County Council has informed the Roscommon People that the Executive will be giving an update on the N61 Ballymurray to Knockcroghery Road Project at this Monday’s Council meeting. The funding constraints which are jeopardising projects around the country are alluded to in a recently published TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) document. Full story on page 4.
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The touchdown of the weekend! James Brandon celebrates scoring the late try which (when converted) gave Creggs RFC a thrilling Connacht J1A League semi-final win over Westport on Sunday. See pages 44-47 for preview of the final, which is this Sunday, against Connemara. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
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Contact our Property Department in 090 6478433 8433 647 Contact our Property Department in Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors www.bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie 090 647 8433 Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors If you were involved in an accident that was www.bccsolicitors.ie for advice on property sales and purchases *In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other * 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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02
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients
Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today
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For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358
AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement
090 647 8433
Inheritance Tax – www.bccsolicitors.ie unmarried couples
My partner and I have lived together for the past two years. I own the house where we live. My partner recently told me that he made a will and he is leaving his entire estate to me. He is not particularly wealthy but I understand he has a large life insurance policy. I don’t want to sound ungrateful but if my partner passed away would I be left with a very large inheritance tax bill? A person is entitled to receive a gift or inheritance up to a certain value without being liable for inheritance tax which is also known as Capital Acquisition Tax. The amount of tax payable depends on the amount of the gift or inheritance and the relationship between the parties. For tax purposes the relationships are categorised into three different groups namely Group A, B and C. Group A applies where the beneficiary i.e. the person receiving the gift or inheritance is a child of the person giving that gift or inheritance (disponer). This includes a stepchild and an adopted child. It may also include a parent, foster child, and a favourite niece or nephew in certain limited circumstances. Group B applies where the beneficiary is a grandparent, grandchild, great-grandchild, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, nephew or niece of the disponer. A parent who does not qualify under Group A will fall into Group B. Group C applies to any relationship not included in Group A or Group B. The amount that can be received tax free is known as the threshold. The current threshold for Group A is €335,000, Group B is €32,500 and Group C is €16,250. A gift or inheritance up to the threshold amount does not attract Capital Acquisition Tax. A gift or inheritance above the threshold amount will attract tax of 33% on that amount in excess of the threshold. If you receive a gift or inheritance from your spouse or civil partner, you are exempt from Capital Acquisitions Tax. Unfortunately, the same exemption does not apply to partners living together. Therefore, if you are living with someone and not married or in a civil partnership then you will only be able to inherit up to €16,250 from your partner tax-free. The remainder will be taxed at 33%.
Rough experience on the golf course… and more on those contract talks! You FINALLY did it! You’ve taken up golf! Yeah, a rough experience! Well done! I was determined to take up a new hobby after lockdown… Great! So how did it go? CYCLING ACCIDENT Do I HAVE to say? Yes! I told you on Friday that the Editor iswere goneinvolved very moody, says our contract If you in a cycling talks depend on us upping our game! Tell accident contact readers more about your lives, he Byrneeven Carolan said! Show vulnerability! Cunningham Solicitors Be more open! Mmnn… So…the golf?? Relaxing? Exciting? Dare I say…FUN? Eh…nightmare!
Endangered Species The barstool boyos
(They pause to Google ‘Wordle’ to see if they can understand it, but give up) What happened? First hole: My playing partner told me the club professional was on site, so I popped over to him, asked for some advice, then approached the ball. Missed it completely! OH! How did the guy who gave you the advice react? Well, when I muttered “I won’t be taking any more tips from you, Mr CLUB PROFESSIONAL”, he said: “I’m not surprised. I’m only making a delivery to the clubhouse. I’ve never played golf myself. The club professional is that guy OVER THERE”. Oh, not a great start! I eventually got off the tee after three attempts. An inauspicious start…what happened on the fairway? What fairway? I was in deep rough! It took me ten minutes to… …get to the green?
(They pause, to allow the rising tension to ease)
…find my ball! Eventually, I chipped on to the green, ten feet from the hole. Excellent! AND? That’s when the drama really started! (They pause to Google ‘Ruddle’ instead of ‘Wordle’ in recognition of the emerging Ballygunner hurling star) And by th… Hold it! The Editor wants us to be MORE open! Is he crazy? Does this mean those
The weekend’s sporting thrills, with historic All-Ireland club title wins for Kilcoo and Ballygunner, a thrilling Six Nations game in Paris, and a dramatic Super Bowl (won by The Los Angeles Rams) amongst the highlights.
What we didn’t like…
We didn’t like a weekend of ominous media speculation about further price rises over the coming months – but we weren’t surprised. Prices rose here by 5.7% in the year to the end of last December – and there’s more of the same on the way.
What PEOPLE are talking about…
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
Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS
info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie
You need to relax! More golf! So how did you end up on that first hole…that 10-foot putt? Well, I addressed the ball, banishing all negative thoughts. I stroked it beautifully. It was heading for the hole… Great! Next thing, a robin skips across the green…and, just as the ball is about to drop into the hole, the robin nudges it off course! WOW! A DISASTER! Not really! Why? It’s a miracle! It took you three to get off the tee, you went into deep rough…but you still HIT A BIRDIE! (Editor: That’s it. I’m advertising for new columnists next week)
What we liked…
This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.
Telephone Central Line 090 6478433
contract talks are almost complete? Are we striking a new deal for this column… OR NOT? Well, the talks are at a delicate stage… They’ve been at a delicate stage for months! I should be involved! This is ridiculous! Nothing’s happening! On the contrary, I’ve had six dinners and at least three rounds of golf with the Editor, there’s lots happening! Are you any nearer a new deal for us? Leave it with me! I can get a deal! Actually, the taxi driver provided for me this evening by the Editor shares my confidence, he says the talks are moving in the right direction! You’re joking! No, he’s very confident!
PIC OF THE WEEK: James Brandon (right) celebrates with colleagues after scoring the late try which drew Creggs level in their League semi-final thriller with Westport (Creggs won 27-25). See preview of the final on pages 44-47. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Dramatic All-Ireland Club title wins for Ballygunner (hurling) and Kilcoo (football); Ireland’s defeat in Paris, which could be categorised as ‘one that got away’; The Super Bowl; Government measures to limit impact of inflation; Growing fears over an imminent invasion of Ukraine; The Late Late Show Valentine’s Special…and (apparently) the final of The Masked Singer…
03
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople ADVERTORIAL
Spring Wedding Fair at Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on this Sunday, 20th February Join us at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Sunday, 20th February from 2-5 pm for our much-anticipated 2022 wedding fair. “After a hiatus of two years owing to the pandemic, we are eager to showcase our award-winning venue to prospective couples who are seeking out the perfect location for their traditional or civil wedding ceremony,” explained Geraldine Grealy, Marketing Manager at the Abbey. “Meet our dedicated wedding coordinator Lisa and a selection of wedding suppliers on the day. There will be lots of supplier discounts and special offers with lots of inspiration for those planning their dream wedding, including bridal gowns, menswear, stationery, cake suppliers, florists, photographers,
entertainment, hair and beauty and lots more” added Geraldine. All recently engaged couples are invited to attend and the Abbey will have a 10% discount applied to *select wedding packages booked on the day so don’t miss out. T&Cs apply. (All exhibitor stands are now sold out). So be sure to pop along on Sunday, 20th February and register your details with us to be in with a chance of winning some lovely goodies. To arrange a prior appointment on the day please call Lisa on 090 6666211 or email weddings@abbeyhotel.ie Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates. You can also read our couples’ testimonials on our website www.abbeyhotel.ie
The stunning ballroom at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.
Megan Daly and Thomas Fahy pictured on their wedding day at the Abbey Hotel.
Dan Dooner and Anna Ryan pictured on their wedding day at the Abbey Hotel.
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04
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople
TII report raises questions over Knockcroghery Bypass timeline Some projects to be deferred beyond 2030 < PAUL HEALY
There is speculation this week that the major BallymurrayKnockcroghery Bypass project could be deferred for more than a decade due to budgetary constraints. While planning of the bypass has been steadily progressing, there are indications now that a number of mooted road projects will not be financed as part of the 2021-2025 phase of the National Development Plan. Furthermore, while some projects which don’t progress in the short-term will be allocated funding in the 2026-2030 period, others will be pushed out to 2030 and beyond, with the TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) advising that such “remaining projects” will be “expected to continue progression” post-2030. One local county councillor has this week voiced concern that the Knockcroghery project could be decades from proceeding. Cllr. Anthony Waldron said it is his understanding that the bypass will be deferred for a number of years, if it proceeds at all. The Roscommon People recently put a number of ques-
tions on the status of the project to Roscommon County Council. While declining to respond to our specific queries, the Council stated: “The Executive will be giving an update on the N61 Ballymurray to Knockcroghery Road Project at the Council Plenary Meeting on Monday, 21st February 2022”. Roscommon County Council, in conjunction with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Roughan & O’Donovan Consulting Engineers, have been progressing the Planning & Design of the N61 Ballymurray to Knockcroghery Road Project in recent years. Following consideration of submissions and feedback received through a public consultation process, a preferred route corridor was published last August. The funding constraints which could slow down or even halt this project are alluded to – albeit quite vaguely – in a recently published
TII document on grant allocations. The NDP Plan 2021-2030 is approached in two periods of five years, namely 2021-2025 and 2026-2030. The TII says €2.4bn in funding is to be allocated by the Department of Transport for 20212025, with €1,300m of this being for new roads. The planning and design of bypass projects will continue, but prioritisation will apply. The document clearly indicates that there is the prospect of more substantial funding for the period 2026-2030, suggesting that many projects currently in planning will have to wait. The TII speculates that about €4,000m will be provided for new roads during the 2026-2030 period, stressing that this is an ‘indicative’ figure and that the final funding total for 2026-2030 will not be finalised until 2025 (as part of a 20262035 Plan). The clearest indication of an im-
mediate funding squeeze comes when the TII states that “there is a need to balance available funding across the national roads programmes, projects and operations having regard to the NDP”. The documents adds: “The rate of progress on the delivery of major projects is dependent on the availability of funding resources on a multi-annual basis”. The document goes on to spell out that “the constraints on the funding for 2021-2025” means several projects named in the NDP will be “progressed during the period 2026-2030 or post-2030, in line with the projected increased funding expected to be available in 2026-2030”. As to the current approach on bypasses, the report indicates that after meeting other priorities, the intention is to allocate funding to continue planning and design of major projects that provide town or village bypasses, with a view to supporting Compact Growth and Town Centre First objectives. It adds: “A restricted number of projects are expected to commence main works construction, subject to approvals, in the 2026-2030 period of the NPD. Remaining projects are expected to continue progression through planning and/or commence main works construction, subject to approvals, post-2030”. ‘Declaration of interest’… As the journalist working on this story, I wish to declare that I am a resident of the area in question – Paul Healy
Waldron expresses concern, calls for clarity
Cllr. Anthony Waldron, right, has voiced concern that the Knockcroghery bypass project could be decades from proceeding. The councillor, referring to emerging budgetary constraints as they relate to the National Development Plan, said it is his understanding that the bypass will at the very least be deferred for a number of years. Cllr. Waldron added that, on foot of his engagement with some local residents, he also has some concerns about the preferred route corridor that has been chosen. “There are two issues…there’s the actual preferred route, which I am aware is a matter of concern to some residents and landowners in the region. I would urge continued consultation with these residents. It is essential that their concerns are satisfactorily addressed. “On the wider issue, there are strong indications now that the project could be shelved, or at least deferred for many years. I think it’s important that we get clarity on the status of the project, and, if it is indeed progressing, on the timeline for same”. Cllr. Waldron added that he is very aware of the importance of connectivity between Roscommon and Athlone with regard to developing tourism and general commercial activity in the coming years. Urging consultation with people in the wider Knockcroghery area, Cllr. Waldron said it is important that clarity is provided as soon as possible.
Murphy wants tougher action on rural crime < DAN DOONER
Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has called on Minister for Justice Helen McEntee to stamp out the “scourge” of rural crime following the recent increase in the number of burglaries in County Roscommon. Senator Murphy said that while Roscommon was a safe place to live, the rise in crime was concerning for residents. “We must not be afraid as politicians to stand firm on this matter and speak at public forums such as the Seanad. We must deal firmly with those people who carry out acts of intimidation on families or the elderly by breaking into their homes and stealing and plundering,” he said. “I am seeking discussion in Seanad Éireann with the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee in order to ascertain how our laws can be strengthened to ensure such thuggery is stamped out. “I welcome the recent announcement by the Minister that applica-
tions are now open for people to join An Garda Síochána as we must strengthen the force”. Speaking in the Seanad last week, the Fianna Fáil Senator urged people to avoid posting plans for holidays and nights out on social media in order to deter would-be burglars. “Sometimes people use social media to tell the world that they are on holidays or to show they are hav-
ing a meal in a restaurant,” he said. “Why do such things when it is letting people know your home is vacant? In my view, this is not wise”. Senator Murphy also called for legislation around bail and free legal aid to be further tightened to make life more difficult for habitual criminals. He also said that stronger sentences for such crimes were needed as a matter of urgency.
05
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople
Roscommon man killed in NZ road traffic accident
Declan Curley, R.I.P.
The Roscommon man who was killed in a road traffic collision in New Zealand last Saturday morning has been named locally as Declan Curley from Clonark in the south of the county. Mr. Curley died after he was hit by a car in the Te Aro area of Wellington at around 3.30 am local time last Saturday. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car is said to be assisting police with their enquiries. A number of tributes have been paid
to the popular local man since the sad news of his death was confirmed last weekend. Clann na nGael GAA Club, who Mr. Curley played with at underage level, said on Monday: “It is with deep regret and sadness that the club has learned of the untimely and tragic passing of Declan Curley. “Declan played underage football with Clann na nGael and followed the progress of Clann and his beloved Roscommon with great interest. “We express our deepest sympa-
thies to Declan’s parents Tommy and Rena, his partner Samantha, the extended Curley and Ganly families and also Declan’s many friends, and neighbours on their terrible loss”. Declan’s family expressed their gratitude to the Irish community in New Zealand. Declan is sadly missed by his heartbroken parents Tommy and Rena (nee Ganly); his partner, Sam and her daughter Mia; aunts, uncles, cousins and a wide circle of friends both in Ireland and New Zealand.
Family Gallery Days at Roscommon Arts Centre Roscommon Arts Centre is launching a new initiative for 2022. ‘Gallery Days with Marian Balfe’ takes place this Sunday (February 20th) and is created specifically for children and families. The brilliant Marian invites families to join her for family-friendly tours of current visual art exhibitions in the arts centre, followed by hands-on make and do workshops where participants will have the opportunity to respond in a creative way to the work they have just seen, experimenting with various
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materials and techniques! The workshop will be approximately an hour and a half long and children may stay for the entire duration or ten minutes – however long it takes to make their masterpiece! Gallery Days are suitable for ages 6 to 12 plus their grown-ups. There are two sessions taking place on Sunday, February 20th; one from 11.30 am to 1 pm and one from 2 pm to 3.30 pm. Admission is free but prebooking is essential as capacity is limited. Booking now from box office on 090-6625824.
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06
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor
paul@roscommonpeople.ie
Thursday There are so many unanswered questions in life, such as where did it all begin, is there life on other planets, what happens when we die, and of course, why do some men hesitate when the bill arrives on the TV hit ‘First Dates’. The Irish version (RTÉ 2, Thursday nights) is every bit as entertaining as the UK one. The format works a treat. For viewers, the best parts are not necessarily the ‘Getting to know you’ exchanges over the actual meal. Usually more entertaining is that moment when one (or both) in a potential pairing head to the bathroom and blab all to a friend/mother, while simultaneously checking the mirror to see how their hair and general appearance is holding up. The most suspenseful moment is obviously when they reveal whether or not they would like a second date. The fun moment is when that bill appears. Tonight, the villain of the show was unquestionably Aran, a naïve young army man. Interviewed on his own after his date with Kirsty, arrogant Aran said he didn’t want to see her again. Moments later, when Kirsty is seated beside him, he encourages her to speak first – she wanted to see him again – and then says he’d go on another date too. Aran hadn’t bargained on the interviewer exposing his cowardly approach, with the lady slightly icily commenting: “Is that what you said to me?” Kirsty escaped, while Aran walked into the inevitable social media dressing down.
Friday A woman in Canada, fearing an intruder might be about to enter her house, contacted police online in a frantic rush. She was so stressed, instead of contacting local police in Durham, Canada, she mistakenly raised the alarm with officers in Durham in England. The episode had a happy ending, with the English police contacting their counterparts in Ontario. The Canadian police called to the woman’s house and arrested a man at the scene. The fact that police in England could help come to the rescue of a woman in Canada gives me another opportunity to air that great story about the late Tom ‘Toss’ Keavey, a well-known character in Roscommon Town, whose quick-fire wit is still talked about. One of the great ‘Toss’ stories relates to his work as a fireman. One day the lads were called to the scene of a traffic accident. There are a few slightly varying versions of what happened next, but all are agreed on the characters involved and the punchline. The version I have is that an American tourist pulled up in his car just as the members of
Sunday Having, in a moment of weakness, recorded Friday night’s Late Late Show (Valentine’s Special), I watched the first 20 minutes today. After a pleasant and surprisingly unhysterical opening (featuring a live wedding proposal), it suddenly became ‘smug central’ as a guffawing Ryan sat down with perennial guest, Dermot ‘Have I told you about my latest show?’ Bannon. I stuck with their tiresome prattling for five minutes, before exchanging a knowing nod with the dog, both of us simultaneously reaching for the remote control.
Monday
I don’t think they’re talking about us! Jack and Eilagh Diffley were in Creggs on Sunday supporting the first team in their thrilling Connacht J1A League semi-final win over Westport. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Roscommon Fire Brigade were beginning to tend to the scene. The American man got out of his car and took a keen interest in what was happening. Eyebrows were raised. Feeling he should explain his hands-on interest, the tourist approached ‘Toss’. “I’m a firefighter in the United States” he announced. Toss: “Well fair play to you, weren’t you quick to get here!”
Saturday I’d never, ever heard of Harry Ruddle until today, not until he burst out of my laptop and, a short while later, appeared on the RTE News. Harry Ruddle? More like Harry Potter. On the clip on the News, The Man I’d Never Heard Of was about to do what Twitter said he had done a little earlier…that is score the winning goal with the very last puck of an All-Ireland Club hurling final. I waited for the clip to reveal the goal, expecting a touch from Harry in a crowded goalmouth, or maybe a bobbling, hopeful shot which would conveniently elude a despairing goalkeeper before booking a place in the history books. But it was more than that, it was Roy of the Rovers at his most outrageous, because Harry was full of intent, running from deep, like a man who almost knew his destiny, who certainly knew the desperation of the moment, his team two points down and the curtains moving in. And, as much as he ran from deep, he was still an awful long way from goal – several times the
length of that table that Putin and Macron were sat at – so Harry, in the parlance of these ball games, still “had a lot to do”. Then, at the bidding of destiny, he struck, and Harry Ruddle briefly became Harry Potter. I had missed the magic moment when it happened, as sometimes happens with magic. Driving back from Galway, I’d lost track of the sport on radio, partly because Leeds were leaking goals to Everton, partly because I had toyed with trying to avoid score updates (later) on Ireland v France, then being recorded in our house. By the time I was back in Roscommon – in time for the rugby in Paris – Harry had worked his magic, as confirmed when I checked in on Twitter. When I saw his goal a while later – it gave Ballygunner a sensational All-Ireland win over favourites Ballyhale Shamrocks – I thought of all the kids, our son included, who play with an innocence that inevitably fades, while pursuing dreams that never really wilt. The Man I’d Never Heard Of was a replacement on the day, anything but a household name, a man who once was a boy who used to plod through muck and rain, indulging his love for games and daydreaming of long-range goals that might settle close finals, all the better if they came from the last puck of the game. Some kids want to be Harry Kane. Some might want to be Harry Potter. Now Harry Ruddle’s name will stir the emotions of kids in Waterford, in all hurling counties, in football circles too. His magic was our magic, the magic of our daydreams as kids.
Often I’ll switch to bowls or cricket when Claire Byrne Live comes on, but tonight’s debate on the rise of Sinn Féin was a lively show, mercifully free of the gimmicks too often employed by Claire & Co. On Twitter, Sinn Féin supporters were quick to express outrage at what they claimed was an attack on their party, but at least we were spared prop-happy Claire dropping miniature republican figurines into a basket. Much of the programme centred on the housing crisis, Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy outlining his party’s position, much to the scepticism of developer Michael O’Flynn and financial advisor Eddie Hobbs. Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Fine Gael) was, as ever, articulate and calm. Fact-checking fan Tony Groves had a memorable purple patch, slaying all before him. Suffice to say, there was no meeting of minds between Sinn Féin supporters in the studio and those of a different view. At the end of the day, no one from Sinn Féin was hurt in the making of this programme; if anything, RTE’s dubious decision to devote an entire show to an opposition party on the march may well have boosted said party. Anyways, my hero of the night was the very droll farmer who sat at the back and addressed the nation at his own (one gear only) pace, hands steadfastly in pockets, expression suggesting he wouldn’t ever give you the wrong change out of a tenner. “I was an accidental landlord 15 years ago, I got sucked into buying a house…” he lamented, from which point on no further ‘Quote of the Night’ entries were accepted.
Tuesday “Some of the Paris (Saint Germain) fans aren’t convinced about Messi” says the match commentator during tonight’s big Champions League game. Personally (but I’m not an expert), I thought he was a decent enough player.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets! Paul Howard@AkaPaulHoward Eighty-seven different sports channels I’m paying for and I’m listening to Liverpool v Burnley on the radio. -It’s an imperfect world Barry Whyte@BarryWhyte85 I am sure Donegal people are over the moon they’ll get 20% off the train now…That’ll help with the high petrol and diesel costs -With no rail service in Donegal (I know, almost unbelievable) Barry’s on the right track here… Irish Rugby@IrishRugby A huge effort but we fall just short. Thanks for all the support in Paris! -Ireland went close in Paris, but eh…no cigar David Rispin@Davy_Rispin·6h You’ll never see an ending to a pair of Club Finals like you seen today... absolutely unbelievable! #GAABEO #Ballygunner #Kilcoo -Saturday was a day of high drama in the All-Ireland Club finals…
Tarmon N.S. Castlerea
Gerry McBride@GerryMcBride ONE HUNDRED EURO for a fill of diesel, ONE HUNDRED CURSED EURO. Never in my life have I seen it that high. Jesus’ mother Mary. -Gerry has HAD ENOUGH! @elainesim28 That silly walk/run you do when a car lets you cross the road -Almost certainly not one of the most pressing issues of the day, but we can absolutely identify with Elaine’s point joan cooke@joancooke This show really is the gold standard of interviewing brilliance. #TommyTiernanShow -The plaudits keep rolling in for Tommy and his guests Daniel Murphy @DanielM1222 Is there any way of just giving TG4 all the tv license money in order to have a new episode of #LaochraGael every week. It’s the best show on television bar none. -Viewers continue to rave about the TG4 series in which former GAA stars are profiled
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Creggs RFC supporters pictured at last Sunday’s thrilling Connacht League semi-final in which Creggs defeated Westport. They play Connemara in the final this Sunday (see pages 44-47). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Sacred Heart day services to reopen after two years < DAN DOONER
now enrolling for
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Telephone: 094 965 1260
Day services for older people are set to resume at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon this March, two years on from an enforced closure due to Covid-19. In a recent response to local Independent TD Denis Naughten, the HSE confirmed that final preparations are underway ahead of a reopening by the end of February. Deputy Naughten said this was welcome news to the many older people who avail of the services. “The reopening of this service will come as very welcome news to many older people who have been unable to meet up with their friends at day services based in Roscommon town for the last two years,” Deputy Naughten said. “Older people and people with a disability have suffered the most over the last two years due to the lack of such services. While it is disappointing it has taken so long for the doors to reopen, I know this news will be warmly welcomed by many older people. “Over the last six months we have seen a gradual reopening of day services for people with a disability and now also for older people. These services are critical not just for the health of individuals concerned but also for their families,” he concluded.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Roscommon County Council | Tel. 090 6637100 | Email: info@roscommoncoco.ie | www.roscommoncoco.ie All offices of Roscommon County Council are now open to the public by prior appointment 9.30am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday
TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 TEMPORARY CLOSING OF 1994, ROADS ROADS REGULATIONS ARTICLE 12 ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75
Roscommon County Council Community Festival and Events Grant Scheme 2022 Roscommon County Council are currently taking applications for the Community Festival and Events Grant Scheme 2022. The Festival and Events Programme is aimed at festivals and events that fit within one of the following categories: Fund A - A Community Festival – held over a minimum of 3 consecutive days’ duration Fund B - A Community Tourism Event – An event held on a day/evening including literary, historic, culture event, food & drink, family focused etc.
ROADS REGULATIONS 1994,toARTICLE 12 road set out in the Roscommon County Council has decided close the Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified. for the periods and the reason specified. Road Townland Reference LS-5641 Cashel (ED Bellanagare)
Closure duration 2 years from 1st March 2022 2 years from 1st March 2022
LS-5640
Cashel (ED Bellanagare)
LP-1218
Cloonyeffer
1 year from 1st June 2022
L-6023
Cartronagor
2 years from 1st May 2022
LS-6144
Scramoge
1 year from 1st May 2022
LS-5629
Dungar
2 years from 1st April 2022
Section of Closure
Proposed Diversion
Length of Closure 250m, Closed from Junction with N5 to Junction with LS5640 Length of closure 150m. Closure starting 100m from Junction with LS5641 and finishing 250m from Junction with LS5641 Length of Closure 150m. Closure starts at Junction with R369 and finishing 150m from Junction with R369 Length of closure 150m. Closure starts 100m from Junction with R369 and finishing 50m from Junction with L-6023 Length of closure 100m. Closure starts 70m from Junction N5 and finishing 170m from Junction with N5 Length of closure 130m. Closure starts 400m from the Junction with the N5 and finishing 530 from the Junction with the N5
Diversion will be by the LS5642 onto the N5 at Bellanagare Village Diversion will be by the LS5642 onto the N5 at Bellanagare Village
Diversion will be East along R369 for 2.5km onto LP60231-0 for 1.3km and onto the LP-1217 to return onto the LP-1218 Diversion will be by the L6023
Diversion will be by the R317 and to East end of LS-6144
Diversion will be the N5 to Frenchpark, along the R361 to the south end of the LS5629
Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project Shane Tiernan Shane Tiernan Director of Services Director of Services
Completed applications should be submitted by 1pm on Friday 4th March 2022. Signed: Majella Hunt Director of Services Community and Enterprise
The ECO Showboat Roscommon County Council are proud to support this year’s Eco Showboat through our Creative Ireland Programme 2022 on their travels up our beautiful Shannon River border.
Eco Showboat will be making stops, organising events, meeting with the artists who have been collaborating with us and working on some citizen science. The full schedule of events will be launched shortly. Exciting! #ecoshowboat #artscouncil70 #creativeir #sfi
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople Two men arrested in investigation into Roscommon man’s death
Further €680k in funding for An Chistín Food Centre < DAN DOONER
Extra funding of €680,000 for An Chistín Food Centre project at Castlerea Enterprise Hub, announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys this week, has been warmly welcomed by local public representatives in the area. The funding will see further investment in the development of food business incubation units at the facility. Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice said the funding would hopefully create much-needed employment in west Roscommon. “As Vice-Chairman of Enterprise Castlerea, I am delighted with the news,” Cllr. Fitzmaurice said. “I want to thank Roscommon County Council and the Government for their work and input into this exciting project. I have had many meetings on this project over the past year and it is great it has been given the green light”.
Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said: “This is very welcome news for the Castlerea Enterprise Hub/An Chistín Food Centre and this extra funding will now hopefully enable getting this project over the line as quickly as possible. It’s further evidence of this Government’s support of job creation in Roscommon,” he said. Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said the funding was in addition to the €1.5 million announced in 2019. “I’d like to thank the Enterprise Castlerea team, who have worked so hard to deliver this project for the entrepreneurs and local producers in Castlerea,” she said. “Food incubator units can provide intensive business development support, below market rental space, and access to shared specialised equipment and processing facilities to accelerate the development of small businesses and increase the chance of business success. This funding will support food start-ups in Castlerea and give space to innovate and create new product ideas”.
Two men have been arrested in connection with the death of a Roscommon businessman on the Robinhood Road in Dublin last month. Ian McDonnell, formerly of Elphin and Roscommon, died a few days after he was hit by his own Volkswagen Passat as he tried to prevent it from being stolen on January 23rd. The 50-yearold father of three was laid to rest on Tuesday of last week following funeral mass at St. Patrick’s Church in Elphin. A Garda statement following the arrests read: “The men, both aged in their 20s are currently being detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Garda stations in the South West Dublin area. Investigations are ongoing”.
Joseph Melia pictured during the half-time break during the recent National Hurling League game between Roscommon and Tyrone in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Roscommon native appointed Bishop of Galway Roscommon native, Bishop Michael Duignan, has been appointed as Bishop of Galway
Roscommon native, Bishop Michael Duignan, has been appointed as Bishop of Galway. Bishop Duignan will minister simultaneously as Bishop of Galway, Kilmacduagh, and Apostolic Administrator of Klfenora. A native of Athlone, Roscommon, Bishop Duignan was born on July 15th, 1970 and is the eldest of six children. He attended Cloonakilla National School, Bealnamulla, and St. Aloysius College, Athlone before studying for the priesthood at St. Patrick’s Missionary Society in Co. Wicklow and the
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Pontifical Irish College in Rome. He was ordained into the priesthood for the Diocese of Elphin in 1994. Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran described Bishop Duignan as a “generous and hardworking colleague, who has contributed enormously to the field of Catholic education and the pastoral care of young adults”. “I very much welcome the announcement. It is a historical milestone for both the Diocese of Clonfert and Diocese of Galway as well as being an enormous challenge for Bishop Michael himself,” he said.
Approval for 13 Residential units at Lisnamult
Members of Roscommon Municipal District have approved the development of 13 residential units at Ardnanagh, Lisnamult. The homes will be located at two separate sites and will include 11 new residential units and the conversion of two exiting apartments. Speaking at a meeting on Tuesday, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Municipal District, Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher said it was “great to see the regeneration of one of the oldest parts of Roscommon town”. Cllr. Orla Leyden described the development as a positive move for Roscommon town and particularly for those on the social housing list. Cllr. Nigel Dineen said it was welcome news during the housing crisis while Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice said it was a “proactive development” which would help with the housing needs of people in Roscommon.
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Tel: 090 6625852 Email: info@rsg.ie Website: www.rsg.ie
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
The
D News page
G
Annual GOAL Mile raises over €400k! GOAL and AIB have thanked people in Roscommon who took part in the GOAL Mile over the Christmas period, with over €400,000 being donated to the humanitarian aid agency at fundraising events in Ireland and abroad. The Christmas tradition of running, jogging or walking a Mile in support of GOAL’s work has taken place since the 1980s. With the support of AIB for the first time, this was the biggest event yet. Funds raised at annual nationwide and international events support the agency’s emergency response and humanitarian work in fourteen countries in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. GOAL Miles were organised at two locations in the county over the Christmas period, in Strokestown and Ballinasloe. GOAL’s Chief Executive Officer, Siobhan Walsh, said: “This year’s
GOAL Mile has been truly exceptional. It was inspiring to see how eager people were, not just to support GOAL’s work, but to get out and re-connect with each other. We want to thank everyone for organising, helping out and turning up to their local GOAL Mile this Christmas. “While normality is closer to being restored here in Ireland, the impact of Covid-19 in the global south is still profound. The support of thousands of people for the GOAL Mile helps us continue to work with vulnerable communities, to enable them to weather the impact of
shocks like Covid, conflict and climate change”. AIB Chief Executive Colin Hunt added: “Communities in Ireland stepped up to join us in supporting GOAL’s work to transform the lives of the some of the world’s most vulnerable people. On behalf of AIB, I’d like to extend a big thank you, and well done to all who took part”. Ms. Walsh is already looking towards the 2022 GOAL Mile with AIB: “A very special word of thanks to all our friends at AIB, whose incredible support and commitment helped make this a GOAL Mile to remember and the biggest one yet. The results speak for themselves and demonstrate the power of partnership. We already look forward to working with Colin and his colleagues for the 2022 event, which will be the 40th anniversary of the GOAL mile”.
€7,100 raised for Hospice
Pictured are Sean Moylan, Allen Dolan and Justin Dixon, all from Tulsk and Strokestown, presenting a cheque to Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation CEO Martina Jennings at the Roscommon Palliative Care Unit. The three friends raised an incredible €7,100 by completing their challenge the ‘25k Christmas Canal Chase’, running from Ballymahon to Cloondra along the banks of the Royal Canal on December 28th. This mammoth challenge took the lads 2 hours and 17 minutes.
Fear of heights won’t stop Ger summiting Island Peak! < DAN DOONER
Castlebar photographer/videographer, Ger Duffy, won’t allow a fear of heights get in the way of summiting Island Peak close to Mount Everest in order to achieve his aim of raising over €20,000 for the Irish Cancer Society and Mayo SPCA. Ger, who will celebrate his 30th birthday somewhere in the Nepalese Himalayas close to Everest Base Camp, says preparations have been going well. “In September I will go to Nepal, where I will trek to Everest Base Camp and from there I will attempt to summit Island Peak which is 20,305 feet above sea level. The expedition will take around 23 days to complete,” he explains. “My aim is to raise a euro for every foot climbed so I’m hoping to donate €20,305 between my two chosen charities, Irish Cancer
Society and Mayo SPCA”. The sheer scale of Island Peak won’t be the only obstacle in Ger’s way come September. “It should be a bit of an adventure though and I’m really looking forward to it. There are a certain amount of nerves but a huge amount of excitement,” he said. “Believe it or not, I have a fear of heights and a fear of flying…and the expedition involves flying into one of the world’s most dangerous airports in a rickety 14-seater plane!” Training for such an adventure is a gruelling process but Ger is putting the work in to give him the best chance of summiting in September, with daily strength training and weekly hikes of Croagh Patrick and Mweelrea. “The best training I can do is an 8-hour trek across mountains in Ireland, come down, and then go and do it again the next day,” he says. “Ultimately, it’s all about the chari-
ties though and hopefully we can hit the target”. Both charities are causes close to Ger’s heart and he hopes the wider public will support him in this worthy endeavour. “My mother was diagnosed with cancer last July and thankfully she has had surgery and treatment and been given the all-clear since. But I’ve seen first-hand how a diagnosis can affect someone and how the Irish Cancer Society provides great support,” he said. “It was my girlfriend Joanne who opened my eyes to the work of the Mayo SPCA and all SPCAs for that matter. There’s a lot of work done behind the scenes and expenses and bills to pay to rehabilitate the pets that end up in our homes”. Ger is asking for your support ahead of his big adventure this September. All donations would be greatly appreciated at gerduffy.ie/donate.
Scór na nÓg venues announced
The following venues have been set for Scór na nÓg Ros Comáin 2022: Semi-Final 1: Friday, March 4th: Kilmurry Hall (Tulsk GAA hosting); SemiFinal 2: Saturday, March 5th: St. John’s Community Centre, Lecarrow (St. Dominic’s GAA hosting). Both semifinals will commence at 7.30 pm sharp. The county final will take place at Elphin Hall on Saturday, March 12th. Tráth na gCeisteanna will start at 5 pm sharp, followed by all other events at 7 pm. Clubs must enter online using the entry document emailed to clubs in the coming days. Closing date for entries is Friday, 25th February. Keep an eye on Scór Ros Comáin on Facebook and Instagram for updates and for enquiries contact 087-9471081 or 0879145557 or email roscommonscor@ gmail.com.
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
11
CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches
Could the ESB take the hit on oil prices until this crisis passes? Am I the only person out there who thinks the ESB may well hold the key to solving some of the dire problems associated with the present cost of living crisis that is hitting almost every corner of the country? For me, it was the decision announced by that company on the first day of October last year that catapulted this issue into the headlines for the very first time – and soon sent colossal electricity bills into the letter boxes of some of the poorest people in our society. These are the people who can least afford to pay more for the pleasure of having the electric cooker working in their kitchen as they try to feed their family. It was on that fateful Friday morning that the ESB announced, through its commercial consumer wing Electric Ireland, that it was increasing residential electricity prices by a whopping 9.3 per cent, and gas prices by 7 per cent – with effect from 1st November 2021. The company blamed the decision on what it said were “unprecedented increases” in wholesale energy costs – which would in turn put up the ESB price by €9.02 per month on the average residential electricity bill and €4.85 per month on the average residential gas bill. If, like me, you don’t have an average ESB bill like this, I’m afraid the price increase was to prove much, much more painful. It was Marguerite Sayers, Executive Director, Electric Ireland, who was sent out to bat on the national media on that day in October. She told us repeatedly that they did their very best to keep prices as low as possible for their customers, but unfortunately, the hike of oil and gas and everything else on the world markets was pushing them into the bill increases. “We appreciate that energy price increases combined with other bills may put some households under financial pressure as we move into the colder winter months” Marguerite Sayers said at the time, “and we would urge any customer who has difficulty in paying their bills to engage directly with us, or with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul or MABS, with whom we work in such circumstances” – and that’s the best advice they could give anyone on the day. I remember reading the story of the price hikes on the RTE News website that evening and reacting with a mixture of anger and incredulity. Regular readers of this column will know I have been writing here consistently for months about the economic and environmental madness of the energy policy at play in the Irish market. Several times I’ve highlighted that, even though we may be doing the right thing for the global warming situation and reducing the carbon output associated with burning peat in the midlands power stations, the totally botched up way we did it means we are actually burning MORE oil than ever before in places like Moneypoint in County Clare – and are now being screwed for it after that price hike for oil on the world markets. Just four months before that price hike came, the ESB Group had (ironically) published its interim financial statements for the six months ended 30
ESB power station
June, 2021, and had told us they had delivered improved financial results year on year, including an operating profit (before exceptional items) of €363 million. All of this coming despite the fact that operating profit in the first half of 2020 was negatively impacted by Covid-19 – yet they still managed a huge increase in operating profit of €114 million compared to the same period in 2020. These are incredibly profitable numbers for a company that is now telling us it cannot cope with world oil prices and meet the challenge in front of them from their own means – without crippling their customers with a near-10% price hike. As a backdrop to what is going on, it seems to me that the ESB’s role in Irish society is sometimes misunderstood by many people. Often they are placed beside Bord Gais and Energia and all the others in public commentary as if they were somehow just a commercial operation with no background in terms of the national picture, and no obligations to recognise their own history either. Their real position in Irish society is in fact a very different one. The facts are that the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) was established in 1927 as a statutory corporation in the Republic of Ireland under the Electricity (Supply) Act 1927 and has been in operation with a lucrative state monopoly of the electricity customer market pretty much ever since. Yes, they did indeed bring electrification to Ireland in the early years of the State, but they were well paid for it by successive governments and throughout the industrial booms in this country they abso-
lutely ‘cleaned up’ in terms of profits. Long before the opening up of the markets in recent times, they had already recorded millions if not billions of pounds and euro in profits every year. Conveniently forgotten by many in the middle of this profit-making operation is another fact – the reality that, with a holding of 95%, ESB is majority-owned by the Irish Government, with the remaining 5% held by the trustees of an employee share ownership plan. So in fact, we the citizens (the bill-payers) of the Irish Republic are actually the real owners of the ESB – which raises the very fair question from our perspective as shareholders that perhaps we are well justified (are we not?) in asking what has happened to all those profits – and could the ESB not step in now and take the hit themselves for about 12 months until this crisis passes? It’s not as if the ESB has not got ample supplies of our money in reserve to deal with the financial crisis ahead of us. Those accounts, published in June, showed that in 2021, ESB had a net exceptional charge of €24 million. This gigantic sum of money was made up of a non-cash impairment charge on the Neart na Gaoithe Scottish offshore wind farm project they are involved in, offset by a gain on the sale of a 47% stake in Tilbury Green Power, a waste wood energy plant they have also spent ‘our money’ on in Great Britain – many miles from their native shore. Sometimes one wonders if it is not well past time for the ESB board of directors to sit back and perhaps take stock of their international investments in the face of the crisis facing its shareholders here
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at home. Our ‘director’ on the board is actually representing the Minister for Communications, Climate Change and the Environment, Eamon Ryan. There’s not a day of the week that goes by when his Department is not speaking to ESB management and the board about what they are doing with ‘our money’ – and one wonders when and if this suggestion about doing more to support those worst affected by fuel poverty is actually going to be discussed at board level and made a priority. The result of any such debate could surely be a case by case review of the price increases hitting the worst affected in our society. We are not suggesting for one minute that everyone in the country is entitled to a price cut in ESB and gas, but we are certainly proposing that the ESB board of directors who represent us as shareholders might begin to sit up and listen to the horrific stories of poverty and disadvantage that are emerging – and then take some action on their behalf! And before somebody from the ESB writes back to tell us there is a state dividend paid from the ESB back to the Government every year, let me confirm I am well aware of it. Less than a hundred million came back this year – a figure that could have been much higher if the state electricity board had actually focussed at a much earlier stage on what they were going to do after the closure of the peat burning power stations in the midlands. Perhaps if they did, they would not be spending the millions they are now dishing out on the burning of millions of gallons of oil in Moneypoint power station all the way through the winter.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople
FRANK BRANDON A ‘slice’ of social history… in praise of local bakeries! FRANK BRANDON’S unique
Our man Frank on fond memories of a golden era for bakeries… and harking back to when Ballintubber was ‘the Drumlish of the showband world’… Of all the fads that flourished, particularly in the first year of lockdown, baking was probably the most popular. Everyone, from the ordinary two and sixpence like myself, to film stars, musicians, and all sorts of A-listers, were turning out cupcakes, scones, brown bread, banana bread and all other types of delicious bakery items.
Banana bread seemed to be the ultimate product at the time. You couldn’t turn on any TV chat show without some star on Zoom telling you their own (up to then) secret recipe for producing the most wonderful banana bread. I will admit that I too got bitten by the bug and for a while was almost permanently to be found in the totally overcrowded kitchen with all my baking stuff. Anyway, two years in, and while I am still doing a little bit, nowadays my efforts are confined almost exclusively to the most beautiful (according to myself) choc chip buns, with an odd loaf of brown bread also finding its way out of the oven. As I was thinking about all of this, my mind drifted (as it often does) back to my younger days, when there was a bakery in nearly every
take on life ...
town and village around us. Back then, Creggs had at least six bread vans delivering their products to the shops. Of course, there were six or seven shops in the village then, as opposed to the single one, O’Rourke’s, that is still standing today. Brogan’s in Glenamaddy, Broderick’s of Athlone, Rourke’s in Ballinasloe, Dyer’s in Castlerea, Molloy’s of Roscommon (who are the only ones still going), and BBB – Beckett’s Bakery Ballygar – are among the ones that I can remember. All of their delivery vans would be seen regularly in our little village. Times were different then. On one famous occasion as we were celebrating (or drowning our sorrows) in Seamus Keane’s after taking part in a cup final the previous day, I spotted a friend (until that day) of mine as he arrived with his
load of bread and cakes. I invited him to join us for a pint, and several hours later when the porter got the better of him, we put him in the back of the van with all the untouched bakery stuff, and left him to sleep it off. The load was, presumably, also written off, and sad to say that was the last time I ever saw him. He lost his job and probably never forgave me, although in my defence we didn’t have to twist his arm to get him to join us. Anyway, how times have changed. The country shops have all nearly disappeared, and so have the small village bakeries. Molloy’s is still going strong, and – despite my diabetic diagnosis – for many a year now their cream sponge birthday cake is something to die for.
And finally…
Creggs RFC supporters pictured at last Sunday’s thrilling Connacht League semi-final in which Creggs defeated Westport. They play Connemara in the final this Sunday (see pages 44-47). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
What has Ballintubber ever done for us? Read on!
It’s funny the thoughts that come into an old man’s head (that’s me). As I arrived into Creggs for the big rugby match against Westport on Sunday afternoon, for some reason I was thinking about the village of Ballintubber, and the huge impact it is having on our little rugby club. There are three very important members of the first-team panel – Sean Og Higgins, Aidan Leech, and Michael Holland – from the Roscommon village. As I made my way into the match, I was thinking that if we were to win the game, since Mick Holland is out injured, the two Ballintubber lads in the front row would have to be at the top of their game. We were well aware that Westport would be coming with a big strong
powerful pack of forwards, and we would need all our strength and commitment to keep them at bay, so I was very disappointed to meet Aidan Leech on my way in and find out that he too was absent through injury. The Ballintubber three were now down to one, but the good news is that Ogie more than held his own against the visiting front row, and contributed handsomely to a very slender Creggs win. While I was rambling down memory lane in Ballintubber, I thought back to the days when Ballintubber was the Drumlish of the showband world. Drumlish later was famed for giving the world of country music Declan Nerney and Mick Flavin, but back in the 1960s, Ball-
intubber gave us two of the best bands of the era, The Premier Aces and The Rhythm Stars. However, much more impressive than the Drumlish two was the fact that no fewer than seven Treacy brothers, and one sister, featured on The Rhythm Stars at one time or another, while at least three of them also played with The Premier Aces. Sadly, some of the Treacy brothers have passed on, but locally a number of the brothers were still playing their music, at least until the pandemic put a stop to it all. From time to time I meet Lynn, still looking as fresh as when he and all the rest graced the stages of the many marquees that we all loved back in the 1960s. Sixty-two years on from
the foundation of The Rhythm Stars, it’s nice to recall the impact they and The Premier Aces had on the national music scene. Both of them were regular performers at Creggs Carnival back in the day. My dad Bill was the secretary and I always remember him saying that as long as either of them were playing, there was a big crowd guaranteed! I keep saying to Lynn that, like Westlife and Boyzone, who have both made comebacks after retirement, that even for one night only it would be great to get the remaining band members back together again and recreate the magic that they produced all those years ago. If it ever happens, I will be there!
Finally for this week, I have to reflect on what a strange world we live in. On the 15th of January this year, down in the Mayo town of Castlebar, a family’s world would change forever when they won this country’s biggest ever Lotto jackpot – more than €19 million. I cannot even begin to comprehend what such an amazing amount of money will mean to that family, and we wish them well. But contrast that with what befell another western family three nights later. Three/four masked thugs broke into 73-year-old Tom Niland’s house in Skreen in the neighbouring county of Sligo, and for the sake of a small amount of money, viciously assaulted the pensioner, leaving him, weeks after the assault, still on a life support machine. Now I am not going to go over old ground again, but all I hope is that the Gardai leave no stone unturned in their efforts to catch these unspeakable scumbags, and make sure they pay for their terrible deeds. I know that human rights activists will disagree, but secretly (until now) I wish old-style punishments, like hard labour, physical punishment, or worse, were waiting for these thugs when the law finally catches up with them. In the meantime, we will remember Tom Niland and his family in our prayers, and wish him a full and speedy recovery.
‘Till next week, bye for now
13
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople newsbriefs
Advertorial
Roscommon Herald on the
Golf Links Road, Roscommon
Customer Correction Proof Creggs RFC supporters pictured at last Sunday’s thrilling Connacht League semi-final in which Creggs defeated Westport. They play Connemara in the final this Sunday (see pages 44-47). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Customer Name:
Rep Contact Details:
S DOYLE & SONS Ballintubber Tidy Towns meeting
Alan beirne
Ballintubber Tidy Towns meeting will take place in the Old schoolhouse, Ballintubber on Friday evening (February 18th) at 8 pm.
090- 6627377
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alan.beirne@roscommonherald.com
2060848
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CHONTAE ROSCOMAIN
Start Date: 26/10/2021 End Date: 30/11/2021 No. of Inserts: 6
TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS
ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12
Edition:
Suck Valley Way AGM Class:
Career opportunities ‘Right at Home’ in Roscommon town!
‘Right at Home’, specialists in care, operates under Home and Community Care Ireland, and are now looking for care assistants to join its office on the Golf Links Road in Roscommon town. Serving the counties of Roscommon, Galway and Mayo. Offering part-time, full-time, and flexible hours at competitive rates, Right at Home is HSE-approved and provides857583 services such as Home Support for Older People, people with disabilities, andbusiness those with medical conditions such as Alzheimers/Dementia, Osteoarthritis, diabetes, 05/04/2021 |M heart disease and those recovering from stroke and other disorders. The company offers care to people over the age of 65 who may need support to continue living in the comfort of their own home or those who have returned home following a hospital stay. There are also care supports for those under the age of 65, who have early onset dementia or a disability. Right at Home is aimed at helping clients to remain as independent as possible while receiving support within their own communities. To find out more about Right at Home’s career opportunities or wide range of care services, contact the Roscommon office on 090-6409084.
Order No.: Copyline: Date:
Tulsk History Society Colour: meeting
Roscommon County Council hereby gives noticeThank you for your order. Please note: The image above is not to scale and is for information purposes only. of its decision to close the road referred to The Suck Valley Way Co-Op Committee are holding The next meeting of the Tulsk History Soci- will be lots of spot prizes on the night. Entry This advert is copyright of Roscommon Herald Ltd. their AGM on Wednesday, March 2nd at 8 pm in the ety takes place next Tuesday (February hereunder for the period and the reason specified. Roscommon Herald Home,Interiors,DIY 4C 22nd(CMYK) ) is €10 per person. Please come along and
Cloonfad Scenic Walks Resource Centre, Derrylahan, at 8 pm, via Zoom. The year has begun with
Roscommon Herald Limited, Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Vat Reg no.: 4671235J Company Reg no.: 88576
(F35 EC99). The AGM will be held at the new members signing up, and anyone else Road to be closed: L-70421-0, Tesco Road will Tel: +353Cloonfad (0)71 96 62004 Fax: +353 (0)71 96 62926 Email: ads@roscommonherald.com Cloonfad Scenic Walks Resource Centre to mark the who wishes to do so are welcome. Please be closed for 100 metres from N61 Circular 21st anniversary of the development of the walks in contact historytulsk@gmail.com for details. Road junction. Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted via N61 Circular Road left on to Mart Road and left to entrance into Tesco/Supervalu carpark and vice versa. Period of Closure: From 28th of February 2022 to 1st April 2022. Reason for Road Closure: Laying of sewers along the public road as part of the Roscommon Town Main Drainage Scheme. All necessary approach signage and diversion signage will be used at the required locations as per Traffic Management Plan. Residents will be contacted and notified directly by the Contractor in advance of the closure. Map showing proposed closure/diversions are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie Water Services Section Roscommon County Council Aras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98 Signed: Caitlin Conneely, Acting Director of Services. Environment, Water Services, Governance & Corporate Affairs, Human Resources, Energy Management & Climate Change. Athlone MD Area Manager.
Cloonfad. All existing and new members with an in- We are looking forward to our quiz night, terest in the future of our local trails in Roscommon which takes place in O’Connor’s Bar, Tulsk are welcome to attend. Please email thesuckvalley- on Saturday night, March 5th at 9 pm. There way@gmail.com to confirm attendance.
join the fun! Work continues on our next newsletter, which comes out in mid-March. If you’d like to be added to our mailing list, contribute an article, or just wish to drop us a line, you can do so by contacting historytulsk@ gmail.com.
14
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople
Miriam’s
MUSINGS
Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS
Cat-kicker Zouma must be prosecuted for animal cruelty Regular readers will know about my vast experience across all aspects of animal welfare – including rescue, rehabilitation, investigation, legal, the prosecution of abusers and education etc. – with the Dublin SPCA. Therefore, you’ll understand when I tell you that whenever I’ve dealt with and investigated horrendous cruelty cases, it has been my experience that some of those who harm animals never stop there. I mention the above as a general observation, but prompted by the video showing so-called ‘role model’, 6’3”, 16-stone Kurt Zouma, a professional football player perpetrating not one (which would be sickening enough), but several acts of cruelty against his defenceless, vulnerable, pet cat! The shocking footage, which emerged on social media last week, showed scenes so hor-
rific, I really didn’t want to watch it. However, in order for me to make an informed comment, I sat, crying and repulsed, as I witnessed this heavily-built man kick his poor family pet across a room like a piece of rubbish. The abuse didn’t end there. The harrowing footage was videoed by another individual, who due to their laughter, clearly believes that mindless cruelty towards a sentient little being is not just hilarious, it’s also a form of entertainment. They recorded Zouma slapping the terrified pet in what I can only describe as being several further acts of despicable thuggery. Actually readers, I could describe these disturbing scenes using more colourful language but, as this is a family publication, I won’t. As an animal lover and advocate, it is my wish that this creep, who has made his name as a ‘sportsman’, is prosecuted and jailed
Parents must empower and protect kids against online bullying A survey carried out recently by internet charity CyberSafeKids found that a staggering 28% of children had experienced at least one form of cyber bullying, with the most common experiences being left out of chat groups or receiving hurtful messages. Yep, some kids/teens can behave like horrible little monsters! As someone who has a teenage granddaughter, I find the above statistics to be very disturbing. Having researched this subject myself (when my granddaughter was forced to go online for school lessons due to Covid restrictions), I found that many children who’re bullied online, feel unable to confide in their parents for a variety of reasons. These can range from feeling embarrassed, feeling ashamed, or from being worried they’ll be judged for visiting certain sites etc. That’s understandable – the poor kids have enough to contend with these days without worrying about the possibility of opening themselves up to ridicule. What’s not understandable, nor is it acceptable, is the idea that some children, when they did build up the nerve to confide in a parent were, according to BullyingUK, told to ‘ignore’ the bully! As we know, bullying, whether it’s faceto-face or online, can (and has) led to many children self-harming, and in some tragic incidences, to take their own lives. To that end I’m appalled that any mother, father, or grandparent would offer a vulnerable child
desperately seeking their help a piece of damaging and possibly detrimental ‘advice’ to ‘ignore’ the individual who’s tormenting them. For the record, if my granddaughter (who’s only allowed go online under supervision), confided in her parents regarding concerns/ abuse she experienced, be it face-to-face or virtually, not only would it be thoroughly investigated, but if Nana got involved (and I would), the bullying would end… and swiftly. It’s a parent’s duty to acknowledge, empower and protect their kids against bullying, be it face-to-face and/or online! In my opinion, any parent/grandparent who responds to their child’s distress by instructing them to ‘ignore’ any form of intimidation rather than taking charge by investigating and ending it themselves, is both lazy and irresponsible and should have their parental licence revoked.
because it is critically important his cruel and loathsome behaviour is taken seriously. I say this for the sake of his poor cat, for the sake of other animals in his care, and for the sake of all animals in general. I also say it for the sake of those people who’re at risk from such sickening, horrific and shocking behaviour, and for the sake of the child featured in the video who tried to protect the poor cat, only to have the little creature forcefully slapped out of their arms by Zouma. The fact that Zouma has been fined a paltry £250,000 (€298,747) and publicly disgraced is not good enough. It’s also not good enough that he’ll allegedly be sent on ‘an animal awareness course by his club as part of his punishment’. He wouldn’t be allowed on any course delivered by me! Why? Because, if he’s prepared to be filmed viciously kicking
Coleen Rooney
a defenceless little creature around his €2 million mansion, and have it posted on social media, I’d be asking what he might be doing to this poor kitty when the cameras stop rolling? I know many of you reading this may see animals as mere ‘things’, but they are not! Animals are sentient beings who feel fear, pain, hunger, thirst, love and joy, etc., and the sooner people like Zouma recognise this, the sooner we can reduce the amount of unnecessary suffering, harm and death being inflicted on them. If, like me, you were sickened by Zouma’s actions and by all acts of cruelty perpetrated against animals, you’ll understand it when I say that not only do we have a duty to protect and respect them, we also have a moral obligation to shield, preserve and defend them.
Rebekah Vardy
Rooney versus Vardy: The stuff of a Netflix scriptwriter’s dream! Perma-tanned, Gucci-clad WAGS-at-war Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy, due to the former’s public social media accusation in October 2019 regarding the latter’s ‘leaking’ of ‘intimate’ stories about her, have got to be the stuff of a Netflix scriptwriter’s dream! In fact, I’m certain that such a series, should it ever be made, would not only be (to coin a phrase) ‘a real potboiler’, generating record viewing figures, it’d also prove to be extremely damning. Why? Because this lengthy and public Rooney versus Vardy feud would not only give viewers plenty of comedic moments, it’d also cast a sad and ugly light on the world of those women who live their entire lives in the full glare of the public spotlight. I’m not keeping up with all of the ‘she said, she said’ details, because I have a life. However, given
the snippets I do follow, I’m certain this silly pair’s long-suffering families must be absolutely sick to their back teeth of it all. Let me stress here and now, I hate the term WAG (wives and girlfriends)! It’s such a major kick in the face to those who marry into this world for the simple reason it serves to highlight a young woman’s status as the expensive accessory to her husband’s ego. In addition, it disgracefully defines her by her partner’s value, i.e. the more successful he is, the more valuable she is! Given all of the above, and the gossip and toxic publicity this ridiculous feud has generated, I’d have to wonder why any intelligent young woman would want to date, let alone marry (a necessary move for peak WAG to be achieved) a professional footballer! I mean it’s hardly an aspirational career opportunity for them, now is it?
TAKE A BREAK
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
NewsPeople It’s been a GOOD week for… Someone, somewhere, after Larkin’s Gala Service Station in Ballina, Killaloe sold Friday’s €30.9 million EuroMillions lotto ticket Legendary crooner Barry Manilow (well, in a roundabout way), as efforts to dislodge anti-vaccine protestors in New Zealand by repeatedly blasting out his hit ‘Macarena’ – in fairness, one of a number of measures employed – proved unsuccessful
‘80S FLASHBACK! Matt Rogers, Batty O’Brien and Troy McNamara acting cool outside O’Brien’s shop in Knockcroghery in the 1980s. Pic courtesy of ‘Knockcroghery – A Village Tapestry’ Facebook page
Inaugural Night & Day Festival launched at Clonalis House The inaugural Night & Day Festival was officially launched at Clonalis House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon on Monday afternoon. Festival organisers, Cruachan Productions, told local stakeholders how the grounds of the historic home will be transformed into a musical oasis on the 24th and 25th of September. The festival will take place during the autumn equinox, a time of equal periods of night and day, across three tented stages. Festival-goers will be treated to a packed schedule of music, comedy and political debate. Monday’s launch was attended by local TDs Claire Kerrane and Denis Naughten, MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Joe Murphy, and local councillors Paschal Fitzmaurice, Liam Callaghan and Anthony Waldron. Also in attendance were Jarlath Henry, Financial Controller of Harmac Medical, who are sponsoring a stage at the event, and Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer at Roscommon County Council. Ballymore Properties are the main sponsor of the festival, which is also being supported by Ireland West (Knock) Airport. Commenting at the launch, Festival Director, Mr. Hurley said: “We’re aiming to bring a world class festival to Castlerea, that will have a blend of music, comedy, storytelling and debate. “We’re really thankful for the support we’ve received so far from our sponsors and the O’Conor-Nash family, for putting their trust in us, because without them this wouldn’t be possible,” he said. Head of Communications Mr. Hughes said: “It’s exciting to launch a music festival, even more so to do it in a part of the country where we grew up and that has been underserved and underutilised in terms of live music for too long. “Our aim is to bring some of the biggest acts in the country to Night & Day, but we’ll also be giving
The Tommy Tiernan Show (again), with viewers raving about interviews with Jimmy White, Brush Shiels and Charlene McKenna, all further evidence of the comedian-turnedchatshow host’s gift for asking thoughtful questions…and then listening Creggs RFC, after they reached the Connacht J1A League final with a dramatic semi-final win over Westport at The Green, this success setting up a final date against Connemara this weekend (see sports section) The Ballygunner & Kilcoo teams, the former winning their first ever AllIreland Club hurling title when Harry Ruddle scored a fabulous winning goal with the last puck of the game, and the latter winning their first ever All-Ireland Club football title with an extra-time win over favourites Kilmacud Crokes, this second slice of GAA drama coming courtesy of a last-gasp goal by Jerome Johnston
Night & Day Festival organisers, Brendan Hurley and Craig Hughes of Cruachan Productions pictured at the launch of the festival at Clonalis House recently. Pic: RH Images
emerging artists from the region a platform to showcase their talents,” he said. Clonalis House, the home of Richard and Carol-Anne O’Conor Nash, will host the festival. Mrs. O’Conor-Nash said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Night & Day Festival to Clonalis. We believe Clonalis, with its 700 acres of woodland and pasture and surrounded by nature, is the perfect setting for a festival and perfect setting to celebrate the autumn equinox. “We’re delighted to welcome people to Roscommon and showcase Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, and bring people to an unspoilt part of the country. “It will give people a further opportunity to discover the soft bogs and roving lakes, and appreciate what’s on our doorstep,” she said. The exciting Night & Day Festival line-up is set to be unveiled this Thursday evening and will be available on nightandday.ie, with tickets on sale from March 11th.
Night & Day Festival organisers, Brendan Hurley and Craig Hughes of Cruachan Productions pictured at the launch of the festival at Clonalis House recently. Pic: RH Images
Fans of TV hit ‘The Masked Singer’ (which I’ve never seen), as the slightly surreal offering (I’m aware
15
of the show’s concept) ended with Natalie Imbruglia (disguised as a panda throughout the series) defeating Charlotte Church (disguised as a mushroom) in the final, with Mark Feehily of Westlife (aka Robobunny) finishing third
It’s been a BAD week for… The Irish rugby team (well, kind of, if not quite really), insofar that their Grand Slam hopes were dashed after they lost a pulsating Six Nations’ showdown with favourites France in Paris, Andy Farrell’s men almost overturning a 15-point deficit when a superb second-half showing put them in the driving seat, before the hosts ultimately held on for victory Ballyhale Shamrocks and Kilmacud Crokes, both of whom were favourites in their respective AllIreland Club finals, only to lose out in dramatic fashion, Ballyhale stunned in the hurling by a late Ballygunner goal, and Kilmacud also losing to a late strike which decided the football final in favour of Kilcoo Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, Head of Britain’s largest police force, who felt she had no option but to resign when the Mayor of London indicated he does not have confidence in her West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma, after the French international was filmed kicking and slapping his family’s pet cat, behaviour which resulted in a £250,000 fine from his club – and much condemnation on social media and elsewhere
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Famous birthdays ... this week
“
The things people say…
Ed Sheeran (English singer-songwriter, turns 31 on Thursday)
Michael Jordan (American businessman and former basketball player, will be 59 on Thursday)
Molly Ringwald (American actress, turns 54 on Friday)
Rihanna (Barbadian singer and fashion designer, will be 34 on Sunday)
“A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove that you don’t need it” -Bob Hope
For updates, check our social channels
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
PropertyPeople
PSRA Licence No: 003201
NEW TO THE MARKET
11 The Spinney, Abbeytown Roscommon, F42 AY99
within walking distance to all local hotel and church. This property w property. Spacious living accommodation in and living room, 5 bedrooms (one
Carrowreagh, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, (H53 Y165).
Quality 4-bedroom bungalow new to the market with Oates Auctioneers
New to the market with Oates Auctioneers is this quality 4-bedroom bungalow situated on c. 0.75-acre site at Carrowreagh, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, (H53 Y165). It has an excellent array of traditional outbuildings and storage sheds to the side together with ample carparking space.
The property is situated in a quiet country setting six kilometres from Ballinasloe town and 20 minute’s drive to Athlone town centre. This deceptively large residence comprises entrance porch, reception hallway, sitting room, living room, open plan kitchen/dining room, utility with W.C., 4 large bedrooms (all with built in ward-
robes) and family bathroom. Outside there is an attractive cut stone walling with double wrought iron entrance gates and extensive tarmac area. Price Region: €235,000. BER: C3 For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Oates Auctioneers on 090-6627878 or email info@oates.ie.
RE/MAX Team Earley close sale of ‘Christy’s Bar’ in Strokestown This week, RE/MAX Team Earley are pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a former four-bedroomed, residential, licensed premises of approximately 2,000 square feet, formerly known as ‘Christy’s Bar’, located at Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Downstairs, the property features a bar cum lounge area, with ladies and gents toilets and a kitchen area servicing. There are four bedrooms in all on the first floor, as well as a sitting room and shower room. There is also a garden area and storage shed set to the rear. We are currently looking for similar properties in all ‘Christy’s Bar’, located at Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. areas for cash buyers. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team RE/MAX Team Earley are currently consultation, please contact Remax Earley, Stonecourt, Roscom- looking for lands to lease/let, both Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon mon, on 090-6626579, long and short term, for new and on 090-6626579, email teamearley@ email teamearley@remax. existing clients. All areas are being remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. considered. Contact auctioneer Cathal directly on Contact auctioneer Cormac For further details or to arrange a free 086-1409158. directly on 086-3519492.
Lands wanted in all areas for lease/let
A substantial 5 bedroom detached residence located in this hallmark development in the centre of Roscommon Town within walking distance to all local amenities - railway station, schools, supermarket, bakery, hotel and church. This property would make and excellent family home or investment property. Spacious living accommodation includes:entrance hallway, kitchen, utility, dining room, and living room, 5 bedrooms (one en-suite) and family bathroom.
Price Region: €275,000
A subs hallma --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------within walking distance to all local amen NEW TO THE hotel MARKET and church. This property would m Attiknockan,property. Mount Talbot, Spacious living accommodation includes Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 XW94 and living room, 5 bedrooms (one en-suit Accessed via wrought iron entrance gates, Price Region: €275,000 – BER Rating: C3
this immaculately presented 4 bedroom bungalow with attractive part brick façade must be seen to be appreciated.Price Region: €275,000 Situated on a large mature site with spectacular views over the surrounding hills and valley, this property is just 15 miles from Roscommon town and 20 miles to Ballinasloe and Athlone town centers in a quiet countryside setting. Accommodation consists entrance hallway, sitting room with fireplace, open plan kitchen/dining room with Stanley solid fuel range, utility with w.c. off, 4 large bedrooms (two with fitted wardrobes) and family bathroom. Spacious site area with separate garden to side with independent access ideal for vegetable garden/ children’s play area. Early viewing is recommended
Acc presented 4 bedroom bungalo appreciated. Price Region: €200,000 – BER Rating: G Situated on a large --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------hills and valley, this property i NEW TO THE MARKET Ballinalsoe and Athlo Accessed 10 Shannon Grove, Ballyleague, Accommodation consists with ent presented 4 bedroom bungalow Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon N39 VH51 appreciated. Situated on a large matus room with stanley 3 bedroom semi detached bungalow kitchen/dining nestled in the popular residential area 3 bed1 hills and valley, this property is just of Shannon Grove, Ballyleague, just with fitted wardrobes) and family off the main Roscommon/Lanesboro Shannon Grove Ballinalsoe and Athlone tow route. This property would make an residential area with of independent acces ideal family/retirement home as its This propertyconsists wouldentrance make a spacious interior boasts both superior route.Accommodation Ear and tasteful design. Accommodation kitchen/dining room withand stanley solid fud both superior tasteful briefly includes, Entrance Hallway, boasts Sitting Room, Kitchen/Dining, Utility, with fittedSitting wardrobes) andKitchen/Din family bathro 3 Bedrooms (1 Ensuite) and family Hallway, Room, Bathroom Price Region: € 200,000access ideal with independent Price Region: €175,000 – BER Rating: C2
3 bedr Early view
Price Region:area €175,000 residential of Shannon Grove, B NEW TO THE MARKET
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
route. This property would make an
Price Region: € 200,000 Main Street, Roosky, boasts both superior and tasteful de Co. Roscommon N41 V9R3Room, Kitchen/Dinin Hallway, Sitting
Superb two storey residence located on a large private site within walking distance to all town amenities including shops, pubs, church, schools etc. Finished to a high standard with large garage to side, this property comprises entrance hallway, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, 4 large bedrooms all with built in wardrobes and family bathroom. Overall, this is a much sought after mature residence in an unrivalled location for which the Auctioneer invites offers.
Price Region: €229,000 BER Rating: D1
Church Street, Roscommon Town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie
Price Region: €175,000
Su with pu The Manse, Northgate Street,this Athlone, large garage to side, property CO. WESTMEATH Sup TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 room, 4 large bedrooms within E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie Overall, this is a much sought pubs afte
large garage to side, this property c
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
PropertyPeople
Cormac 086 3519492
PSRA Licence No. 004420
FINAL OFFERS INVITED PRIME QUALITY LANDS
APPROX. 23 ACRES
LOCATED AT
CARROWNALASSAN & CARROWBOY, FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON
D E E R G A LE
SA
Prime Quality Lands located just off the N61 comprised in folios RN13719 & RN1816 The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Roscommon & Tulsk Final Offers Invited.
Legals: Billy Brandon Solicitors, 090 6626245 of Patrick J Neilan Solicitors, Roscommon The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell
NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY OR AUCTION LATER PRIME QUALITY LANDS
APPROX. 49.4 ACRES
WITH DERELICT RESIDENCE STANDING THERE ON LOCATED AT
RATHKEVA & TONROE, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON
Cathal 086 1409158
NEW TO THE MARKET 30 ACRES (approx) OF PRIME LANDS LOCATED AT
KILMURRY, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON AMV:€225,000 Prime lands set out in two lots comprised in Folio RN16670F. These said lands are located beside St Pauls Church, Kilmurry, Castleplunkett Services: Water and Cattle Holding Pen and Crush Approx 30 Acres for sale can be sold in one or two lots should market interest dictate. Lot 1 - Quality land Approx.12.5 acres €95,000 Lot 2 - Quality land Approx.17.5 acres €130,000 Total 30 Acres (approx.) - €225,000 The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Castlerea & Castleplunkett Legal: Sean Mahon Solicitor, Mahon Sweeney Roscommon 090 6627350 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell
NEW TO THE MARKET
18.1 ACRES (approx.) OF PRIME ROADSIDE LANDS LOCATED AT
STONEPARK, BESIDE ROSCOMMON TOWN AMV: €180,000
PRICE GUIDE €375,000
Prime quality lands comprised in Folios RN11965 & RN21489 standing on the said lands is a derelict residence with pitch slated roof & storage shed at side. A Four-Bay-Shed, yard and Holding Pen is located at entrance with the benefit of side road. Folio comprised of RN11965 + RN21489 Note: Land can be sold in one or two lots should market interest dictate ie. 12.75 aces (approx); 36.6 acres (approx) with sheds & derelict residence
Legals: O’Dwyer Solicitors, Ballyhaunis, Mayo. 094 963 0011 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell
Prime Roadside Lands set out in one lot holding potential due location. The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area beside Roscommon Town. Legal: Kelly Kennedy Solicitors Dublin 2 (01) 676 4716 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell
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
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
PropertyPeople PSRA NO: 004422
PROPERTY SALES LETTINGS VALUATIONS Athleague, Co. Roscommon - F42 TW70 Tel 090 6663700 Mob 086 8985013 www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie
NewsPeople
THIS WEEK...On The Political Beat This week, local public representatives welcome substantial funding for roads in Roscommon, criticise funding for domestic violence refuges, raise cancer diagnosis delays, and comment on the Government’s cost of living plan…
Dolan welcomes roads funding
Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan has this week welcomed €20.4 million for Roscommon County Council as part of Roads Programme funding announced by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan. “These funds are crucial to maintaining the quality of our road network and safety for all road users,” Senator Dolan said. “17 bridges across Roscommon will benefit (under Bridge Rehabilitation Scheme) such as Cloonsheever in Castlerea, Carrowduff in Athlone and Cappantogher in Falty. “The Climate Change Adaptation and Reliance Works are to target impacts of our climate crisis, and 12 projects are funded across Roscommon with the impact of flooding and the importance of raised embankments and clearing drains”.
Kerrane critical of refuge funding
Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has criticised funding of
domestic violence refuges across the State between 2016 and 2020 following the recent publication of figures by the Department of Justice, which show an increase in funding of 29.4 per cent for those years. Deputy Kerrane said the figures showed the sector as being underfunded in recent years. “Looking locally, Roscommon Safelink received an increase of just 5.5 per cent over five years. That is absolutely scandalous in a sector that exists solely to protect and support survivors of a vicious crime,” she said. Referring to a recent Prime Time Investigates broadcast on domestic abuse, the Sinn Féin TD said: “In fact, six of the 39 domestic violence refuges receiving support from the Department of Justice did not receive any funding increases whatsoever over that five-year period – with two losing a percentage of their funding”.
Waiting list causing cancer diagnosis delays
Independent TD Denis Naughten told the Dáil this week that record waiting lists within the health service have led to delays in finding seven in ten invasive cancers. Addressing Taoiseach Micheál Martin, the Roscommon TD said that things could also get much worse with a 54-month respiratory waiting list “as the country is about to face a potential avalanche of respiratory cases as a result of long-Covid”. Citing research by the Oireachtas Library, which he himself commissioned, Deputy Naughten added: “An
estimated 114,500 people, and rising, have ‘long Covid’ in Ireland and it is rapidly becoming a hidden iceberg of long-term chronic illness for our struggling health service”. He called on the Taoiseach “to urgently do things differently” to address the waiting lists and urged the Government to sponsor students on the basis that they commit to working in the health service for a period after graduating”.
‘Cost of living plan is anti-rural Ireland’
Reacting to the Government’s €505 million package to mitigate against the cost of living, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice said the plan was “anti-rural and anti-motorist” and accused Taoiseach Micheál Martin of “pandering to the Green Party in order to stay in power”. The plan includes a temporary 20 percent reduction on public transport fees and a Fuel Allowance increase of €125. “For rural dwellers, there is no bus that passes their house which can bring them to work in the morning and bring them home in the evening. What benefit is this package to them? “The cost of diesel, both white and green, has risen continually for months. The price of fertiliser has skyrocketed. Agricultural contractors and hauliers alike are under serious pressure given the rising fuel costs,” he said. “It is a case of the tail wagging the dog, with the Greens fully in control. It appears as if Micheál Martin is just pandering to the Greens in order to stay in power”.
Major works to commence in Tarmobarry
Cllr. Tom Crosby has confirmed that major enhancement and safety works are about to commence in the Shannonside village of Tarmonbarry. The project, at a cost of €250,000, is funded under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. The works will include traffic calming measures to reduce the speed of traffic going through the village, which is situated on the N5. The works will also include the installation of a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing, the upgrading of all the pedestrian areas, the footpaths and car parking, and an outdoor seating area in front of the restaurants in the village with a decorative retaining wall and railings. Cllr. Crosby said the enhancement and safety project is a most welcome development and will be a major benefit to the local community, visitors and tourist to the Shannonside village. “The works will take approximately eight to ten weeks and Roscommon County Council has confirmed that disruption will be kept to a minimum and every effort will be made complete the development before the tourist season gets underway,” Cllr. Crosby concluded.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
#SpringbackRoscommon • Commerce • Arts • People • Hospitality www.roscommonpeople.ie
Stepping into Spring ... with a Spring in our step
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step
€1.4m in LEADER funding supports for businesses and groups in Roscommon
Ballinlough Development Association CLG – Lake O’Flynn Amenity & Harbour Project
Where the grants went… LEADER grant-aid was awarded to the following businesses in 2021…
Roscommon Integrated Development CLG €15,705.00 Roscommon Food And Drink Strategy
Woodvenu Ltd. €109,195.74 Business Expansion for Woodvenu Ltd.
Vita House Services CLG €56,446.33 Vita Family Support Services – Monksland
XLNT Signs Limited €54,000.00 Flat Bed Cutting, Packaging & Braille Finishing Manufacturing Suppliers
Tisrara Community Centre €34,895.85 Upgrade Light & Heat to Energy Efficient Standard
G&C Engineering €16,425.00 Purchase of sheet metal guillotine to assist in growth of business and employment opportunities G.D. Upholstery Limited t/a The Upholstery Company €116,250.75 Upholstery Building Fit out REAP Interactive Ltd. €30,000.00 REAP Interactive Charlie Finneran €8,053.71 Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum David Casey €45,975.00 Business Expansion – Purchase of Equipment Tully Forge Limited €79,687.50 Expansion of Business Keen Print Limited €67,496.25 Purchase of environmentally Friendly UV Print Technologies – UV wide format printing machine ROSFM Radio Company Limited by Guarantee €12,192.00 Community Radio Refurbishment and Upgrade M. Carney Memorials Ltd €75,000.00 Business Expansion – New Equipment Margaret Sexton €114,926.40 The expansion of Margaret’s Kitchen, including the construction of building and associated works
LEADER grant-aid was awarded to the following Roscommon communities in 2021… Roscommon Integrated Development CLG €21,310.23 REBOOT Training Programme – Network Facilitator and Digital Enabler Roscommon Integrated Development CLG €96,694.33 REBOOT Training Programme – Training Element
Polecat Springs Group Water Scheme Co-operative Society Ltd. €17,656.65 Polecat SEC, 1 MW Community Photovoltaic Facility
During 2021, Roscommon Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in partnership with Roscommon LEADER Partnership (RLP) awarded LEADER grant-aid of more than €730,000 to 12 businesses in the county to help them to grow and diversify. In addition to this, a further €670,000 was awarded to 19 community and voluntary groups to refurbish community buildings, develop outdoor spaces, deliver training locally and implement biodiversity projects. The diverse range of successful businesses supported includes tourism enterprises, creative industries and specialised engineering services from across the county. In summary, this grant-aid is supporting the creation of new jobs in the county as well as sustaining existing jobs in these businesses.
LEADER funding continues to enable communities to realise local priorities – identified by the local community – and RLP supported 19 groups to access funding in 2021. Roscommon LCDC in partnership with RLP has responsibility for the delivery of LEADER funding in the county under the remit of the Department of Rural and Community Development. Through LEADER, Roscommon LCDC focuses on supporting community-led local development, including diversification of the rural economy, the creation of employment opportunities, increased social inclusion and poverty reduction in the county. If you would like to apply for LEADER funding or require more information, please contact: Amanda (086 046 0046), Claire (086 609 4262) or Denise (086 771 6574).
Kiltoom Community Development CLG – Kiltoom Amenity and Car Park
St Croan’s GAA Club €21,082.05 St Croan’s GAA Club Walking Track Cloverhill NS Board of Management €75,690.09 Cloverhill Biodiversity and Sensory Activity Area Cloonfad Men’s Shed €13,023.37 Outdoor Bowling Ballyleague Village Renewal & Tidy Towns €4,353.27 Tourism Signage at Ballyleague marina The Melting Pot €3,300.00 Replacement of Wooden Flooring in Café Suck Valley Development Co-Operative Society Ltd. €13,699.12 Suck Valley Way Blue Way Report Roscommon Integrated Development CLG €26,238.89 Roscommon Migrant Strategy Roscommon Integrated Development CLG €24,800.00 Traditional Skills Training
Lough Ree Angling Hub – Lough Ree Access for All
Castlerea Town Team Company Limited by Guarantee €12,472.20 Castlerea.ie Website Upgrade Elphin Resource Centre CLG €10,585.69 Develop and implement a SMART Community Strategy for Elphin Rooskey Development and Social Inclusion Group CLG €200,000.00 Upgrade of Community Centre in Rooskey Cam Community and Sports Centre Company Limited By Guarantee €13,347.60 Further development of Sports and Recreation Facilities around Cam Community Centre Eire Og GAA Club €14,684.06 Outdoor Exercise Equipment
Cootehall Community Development Company Ltd – Cootehall Barracks Community House and Library/Reading room
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
#SpringbackRoscommon
www.roscommonpeople.ie
LEADER 2014 – 2023 Support for Business and Community
Achievements to date Grants Allocated €7.5m
Projects Funded 128
New Jobs Created
Jobs Sustained
94.5
Community/Voluntary Organisation supported
260
96
Additional Visitors to Co. Roscommon 105,000
Types of Grants Provided Capital
Analysis & Development
Marketing & Promotion
Training
The Walks Scheme Step into the beauty and tranquillity of the Roscommon countryside on the county's long distance walking trails - The Suck Valley Way, The Miners Way & Historical Trail and, from 2022, The Lung/Lough Gara Way. Over 220km of breath-taking waymarked trails on your doorstep.
Key Achievements in 2021 Received €13,281 in funding from the Walks Scheme Development Fund Received over €28,700 for maintenance and materials to improve waymarked trails in Co. Roscommon Secured €43,224.47 in ORIS (Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme) funding to deliver enhancement works on the trails in Co. Roscommon in 2022. Supported communities in all municipal districts of County Roscommon with trail research and development works. Welcomed the addition of The Lung / Lough Gara Way to the National Walks Scheme. Supported the development of a cross county collaboration between Roscommon & Galway. Welcomed over 70,000 trail visits to date for 2021.
For more information on the above trails, please contact Roscommon LEADER Partnership on 090 663 0252.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step
Odd Sox glad to be back together again! Classic Cutz
Church Street, Roscommon
Prop: Joan Tully Treacy
Odd Sox: Kavana Donlon on guitar and vocals, Ronan Mockler on drums and vocals, Jonathan Mannion on bass guitar, and Kayli Smyth on keyboards and vocals.
Bookings now being taken for Communion and Confirmation Day and all those special occasions
When was the band established? The band was originally established in late 2017. Kavana and Ronan were friends who played together from a young age. They connected through secondary school and eventually added Jonathan and Kayli to the set-up later that year.
What kind of gigs did you play prior to Covid?
Telephone: (090) 6627607 Mobile: 087 7671148
Prior to Covid the band was fairly busy with weddings, dances, gigs at pubs and corporate functions. The band’s young, energetic and party-friendly style allows us to play at most events and suit whatever crowd we find ourselves in front of.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK
Open 7 Days Tel: +353 (0)43 3326098 Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon
Stays on the banks of the River Shannon
How did Covid affect you? Covid had a major effect on the entertainment industry as a whole. We went from playing nearly every weekend to a very sudden stop with little or no choice really. It was a massive shock to the system for us, both mentally and financially. Being college students, it was particularly challenging as it was our main source of income throughout the college year.
Regarding the mental side of things, we were so used to interacting and socialising each weekend and for that to just stop immediately was really tough. We did adapt as best we could however and participated in a few online/charity streaming gigs which were great, and kept us in touch with the industry.
How have things picked up since restrictions lifted? Things are definitely looking a lot brighter since the country began to exit lockdown. As a group, we have taken a little time to get ourselves back to where we were before we were ‘left in the dark’ by the pandemic. We aim to have a very positive 2022 and get back almost full time on the road again, like in previous years. We would just like to wish all our fellow entertainers and all involved in the entertainment industry the very best of luck with opening up and hopefully we all never have to experience such an extreme situation again. *Odd Sox are Kavana Donlon on guitar and vocals, Ronan Mockler on drums and vocals, Jonathan Mannion on bass guitar, and Kayli Smyth on keyboards and vocals.
VOX POP
Explore Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Cycle the Royal Canal Greenway, Walk the National Famine Way, Kayak on the River Shannon, Visit Strokestown House & so much more...
www.keenanshotel.ie
What’s the one thing you’re glad to have back? When it comes to work, I’m glad to be back working in the salon with customers. We work in a very close environment and over the years we’ve built up personal relationships with our customers. Covid was difficult because not only could we not provide our service but customers also missed out on coming in and chatting with us and perhaps meeting other people too. I’m very grateful to all of our customers for their loyalty. I’m lucky because they stood by me and as a small business in Roscommon that’s so important. One thing you’ve learned from Covid-19? I think Covid brought everyone back down to earth in many ways. We realised that it’s not all about material things and it brought us back to what’s important such as our health and wellbeing. With Covid, it didn’t matter what you had or who you were, everybody had to do the same things and everyone was affected by it. What would be your dream holiday now that we can travel again? Being self-employed, any holiday would do! But maybe a nice week away in Greece with sunshine and good company…
Sylvia Lynch, The Happy Scissors, Roscommon
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
#SpringbackRoscommon
www.roscommonpeople.ie
GANNON’S FURNITURE, CARPET AND TIMBER FLOORING Athlone Road, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 65998 OPENING TIMES: Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 6pm
Large range of stock available for immediate delivery Carpets, Timber Flooring and Bedding Deals
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step
MOLLOY’S
Looking forward to welcoming all our customers back
MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512. E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net BIRRA MORETTI / PERONI Selected 660 ml range €4.54/ltr GUINNESS Draught 500ml 8 pack €3.56/ltr
‘We struggled together, now we must recover together’ < SHANE MURPHY
ISLAND’S EDGE Irish Stout 500ml 4 pack €4/ltr
“If you’d have told me, a year ago, that I’d be locked inside in my home, I’d have told you, a year ago, interesting now leave me alone” – the opening line Bo Burnham’s 2020 Netflix special ‘Inside’. At the time, it was a throwaway statement, a topical joke. However, in retrospect, and in the wake of the lifting of restrictions recently, one can only look back at that line, and realise just how much we have sacrificed since that first March of the decade, and how much life has changed. While the cause was certainly noble, and arguably very necessary – no one can deny the negative impact two years of lockdown and intrusive restrictions have had on us as a population. We’re a sociable bunch us Irish, and asking us to give that up is akin to asking Americans to give up their 2nd Amendment right. Two years ago – I would have told you it was impossible, we simply couldn’t do it.
FREE
I HeartGLASS with Selected 750ml Range purchase €7.99/750ml
Athlone Local Electoral Area Roscommon County Council
Cllr. Liam Callaghan AVAILABLE TO ALL COMMUNITIES
Contact me with any issues on 086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie
But, we did.
Klassic Cleaners
Church Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6625995
Time to Spring Clean! Dry Cleaning:
Suits, pants, coats,
jumpers, shirts, casual/formal dresses, etc.
• Ironing/pressing service 8 shirts for €10 (prepaid) Single Bedset €6.50 (4pc) (prepaid) FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE, including; Blankets, Duvets, Throws, Team Kits, etc.
ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS
Large selection of face masks in all sizes
• CURTAINS A SPECIALITY
Opening hours: 9.00 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Saturday Find us on Facebook
Shane Murphy pictured at home in Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.
We gave up sport. Championships, leagues, matches and your local 5-a-side at the AstroTurf. Ceased at a moment’s notice. What many would have considered their main form of social interaction – children and adults alike – we were forced to abandon. The entertainment industry, arguably the hardest sector hit – gave up literally everything, for months on end. Countless musicians, dancers, actors, and others, all forced out of their livelihood for much of the pandemic. State exams – touted as the most
VOX POP
What’s the one thing you’re glad to have back?
I’m thrilled that we can visit and hug our grandchildren again! My Roscommon Special Olympians have also returned to face-to-face meet-ups and that is fantastic. Covid was exceptionally hard on these athletes but they braved it just like they brave every other obstacle that comes their way. They are just a brilliant bunch. Roscommon Community Sports Park has also reopened for bookings so I’m delighted that some normality has returned there. It’s a fabulous facility put there through the hard work of a small committee, who now deserve to see the new building utilised to the best of its ability.
One thing you’ve learned from Covid?
(Laughs) I learned how to play Wordle! Apart from that the one thing I’ve learned from Covid is that
important focus of our teenagers’ lives – were put on hold, leaving uncertainty among students, the Leaving Cert only making a return after extensive modification. And undoubtedly, the hardest hit by our lockdowns – those who lost loved ones – were forced to mourn at the grave alone without the support of those closest to them. However, despite the darkness of the last couple of years, it does really seem like we’re at the end. Normal life is resuming. The crowds are roaring in stadiums, the pub is alive with music. We are back together as we should be. And we have our collective spirit, patience, and excellent, strong, hard-working frontline staff to thank for this. But remember that there are people who are still struggling, still in shock, mourning, or fighting internal battles. As we struggled together, it is our duty to recover together. So give that person a call. See how they’re doing. Five minutes of your life could be the difference in theirs. And as much as life changes, the more it stays the same – so no matter what is going on in your life, or in the wider world, just bear in mind that no matter how dark it may seem, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. If you’d have told me, this time last year, that we’d be near the finish line, I’d have told you that you’d lost your mind.
Jacqueline McCormack, organiser, Roscommon Community Challenge 2022
family and friends are everything and in the end that’s all that matters.
Now that we can travel again, what would be your dream holiday?
Anywhere there’s a golf course and a bit of peace and quiet! I might even set up a tent in Roscommon Community Sports Park and have a sleep out! But my first port of call is to the Roscommon Community Challenge which takes place on Friday, March 4th. I hope to see you all there! * Roscommon Community Challenge takes place on Friday, March 4th in Roscommon town and is suitable for all abilities. Registration is now open through ‘Roscommon Community Challenge 2022’ at www.eventbrite.ie. Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Community Sports Park.
Alas, here we are. *Shane Murphy is a student of Economics, Politics and Law at Dublin City University who had previously completed work experience at the Roscommon People.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
#SpringbackRoscommon
www.roscommonpeople.ie
Relief comes with the long-awaited end to restrictions Let’s talk about ... EMERGING FROM THE PANDEMIC ... (A student’s perspective)
Alannah Ita Healy After almost two years of dealing with restrictions, lockdowns, and living with Covid-19 at the forefront of our minds, it seems like the end of the pandemic is finally in sight. In the time that’s passed since March 2020, we’ve had our fair share of false hopes – times when we thought things were drawing to a close, only to have rising case numbers plunge us back into restricting our movements. However, vaccination rates have given us a security we haven’t had before, and it looks as if the time has finally come for us
to begin emerging from the pandemic. One thing that was drawn into focus over the past couple of years as we dealt with the impact of Covid-19, is mental health. The importance of mental health was obviously recognised pre-pandemic, but given the impact that isolation, restrictions, and general Covid anxiety had on so many people, the value placed on safeguarding your mental health has become more significant than ever. Saying goodbye to the pandemic automatically opens up a few doors for those whose
mental health is suffering due to Covid. People now once again have the opportunity to see their friends and family more, and to go on regular outings, which will have an immeasurable positive impact for so many. There’s an enormous sense of relief that comes along with being able to make the choice to live more sociably, and its absence has been felt the past two years. However, it would be naïve to suggest that the mental health issues brought about and catalysed by the pandemic are going to disappear along with it. Of course the initial return to unrestricted living will be a huge boost, but for many, there will still be long-term effects to grapple with – not to mention post-Covid anxiety. While such problems will not be solved by simply removing restrictions, there is hope to be found in the renewed focus we’re placing on mental health and in the increased availability of in-person services for those who need them. The end of restrictions also comes as a relief to business
Sports Capital funding of over €2.3m for Roscommon clubs < DAN DOONER
34 sports clubs and organisations in County Roscommon will share in €2.34 million in Sports Capital funding announced by the Government this week with Roscommon & District Football League the largest beneficiary, receiving €155,305 for the development of its grounds at Lecarrow. Meanwhile, 14 Roscommon GAA clubs will also benefit with the likes of Western Gaels and St. Faithleach’s receiving €144,000 and €147,207 respectively. In the south of the county, Rahara Rovers FC received the largest allocation with €129,738 towards clubhouse refurbishment while Pádraig Pearses GAA Club receives €115,723 and Athleague Hurling Club €81,000. Local public representatives welcomed the news this week with Independent TD Denis Naughten describing the funding as “historic”. Minister of State Frank Feighan said it was a great day for sports clubs and community groups following two tough years of Covid-19.
owners, who have been struggling in every sector in the past two years. You would be hard pressed to find an industry that didn’t struggle with the impact of Covid-19, that didn’t have to rework how it operates in order to survive, and it’s a testament to the people working in these sectors that they got through the pandemic on the back of their own innovation and hard work. In this sense, the end of the pandemic feels like the pot of gold at the end
of the rainbow, the finish line after a two-year long marathon, and though there will still be a lot to grapple with after Covid’s gone, it’s good to be close to seeing the back of it. Not just the business owner but the worker too has much to look forward to when it comes to the new normal. We’ve learned how to pick and choose what’s worked for us the past two years, and remote/hybrid working
is one of those things. Being able to work from home has made a big difference for so many in terms of having more free time, more comfortability, and more autonomy over your work routine. Outside of personal benefits, remote working has other positive impacts too, for example when it comes to the environment, as there’s less overhead and transportation involved. Overall, though the entire Covid experience is far from fully over and though its impact will weigh on us for a while to come, being able to meaningfully see the end of the road for the first time is encouraging. Dealing with the pandemic felt like a whirlwind, and now as we begin to emerge from it, some things still feel a bit up in the air – but above all, you can sense the relief. Yes, as we are so often reminded, we will continue to suffer a certain economic and mental toil long after Covid’s gone, but we are finally nearing the end of that two-year marathon, which is something to celebrate in and of itself.
EST. 2004
COX’S STEAKHOUSE –––––––––– BAR & RESTAURANT ––––––––––
Main Street, Dromod, Co. Leitrim. Tel. 071 9638234 www.coxs-steakhouse.com
Some of the successful applicants in north Roscommon include Carrick Golf Club as well as Shannon Gaels (€122,827) and St. Michael’s (€122,060) GAA clubs. Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said he was “thrilled and chuffed” with the news and that the funding was further evidence of Government support for County Roscommon. Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan congratulated the successful applicants which also included Tarmon National School, community groups and sports parks, stating that “being active, being part of a team and getting involved” was good for the head and the heart.
Traditional yet classic and contemporary Cox’s Steakhouse, Bar & Restaurant – where legacy and tradition meets modern style
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step
McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns
VOX POP Carole Coleman, RTÉ journalist/presenter, Carrick-on-Shannon What’s the one thing you’re glad to have back?
First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products
The one thing I’m glad to have back is being able to visit my parents properly and sit in their kitchen for a cup of tea without wearing a mask and without being outside the back door!
‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’
One thing you’ve learned from Covid-19?
Contact Nuala 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com
Locally owned ... in the heart of the community
I think we’ve learned that we are not in charge of our own destiny in a way…the virus proved that whatever we did politically we couldn’t control what was happening. There are bigger forces at work out there and no matter how much planning we do or how much we think we are in control, something can come along and knock us. However, it did also prove that we are good at adapting – and that was surprising. Everyone had different levels of risk they were willing to put up with when it came to Covid. The restrictions showed us that we are
able to take charge of our own lives despite the challenges we faced.
What would be your dream holiday now that we are able to travel again? I would really love to visit Scotland. It’s so close to us but I’ve never travelled over to see it properly. I’d love to take a car and drive around and see it for myself and attend the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh. The travel restrictions have made me a bit of a home bird and I’d be happy to explore the likes of England and Wales and the places around me. I’m now all in favour of taking lower cost trips closer to home whereas before I would’ve travelled to destinations that were further away. *Working from home in Carrickon-Shannon, RTÉ journalist Carole Coleman kept a detailed diary of the first 100 days of Covid-19. Her book ‘News from Under a Coat Stand’, which was released in October 2021, provides a poignant account of a time Ireland and the world will never forget. It’s available from local bookshops priced at €15.
Percy French Hotel Strokestown • 071 - 9633300
NING E P O E R rom FULLY f H C 1st MARNDAY O OPEN M Y - S U N DA Y - A L L DA
Now taking bookings for communions, confirmations and any other special occasion
Food served daily from 9am to 8pm
Main Street, Roscommon
NEW BREAKFAST OPTIONS
ORDERS CAN BE TAKEN WITH OUR APP AND ALSO OUR WEBSITE.
OPEN FROM 8.30AM
See our new Lunch Menu
PHONE: 083 4844333 Also find us on Facebook/thecomfycafe
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Join a warm and friendly Slimming World group near you for a celebration of Free Food
#SpringbackRoscommon
Reconnecting with friends after lockdown < MIRIAM KERINS
Figure out what friends you want to keep Everyone has different needs. These could range from having a fun person in your life to having a shoulder to cry on and a pal to confide in. Then again, maybe having someone you can depend on for doing you a favour is what’s important to you. Either
www.roscommonpeople.ie
Join a warm and friendly Slimming World group neara you forand a celebration of Free Food Join warm friendly Slimming World group near you for a celebration of Free Food
Free Food February
The restrictions and lockdowns have been hard on our relationships with friends and family, at times leading us to shift our entire world to either going online or chatting on the phone. Such interferences have served to disrupt our social behaviours so severely, it’s fair to say that for some, there may now be an element of detachment from our pre-Covid lives, leading us to cut our associations with those we’ve finally realised didn’t really mean that much to us in the first place! Therefore, if you’re someone who’s reconnecting, but are unsure how to either rebuild those old friendships or even prune nuisance ones from your life; here’s what we suggest: way, the thing to remember is, as the lockdown has lifted and life is getting back to normal, ask yourself which of these people do you engage with and which, if any, do you want back? How do you make new friends? No problem, just put yourself out there and build yourself a new sup-
port mechanism. Join a local group such as a weekly exercise class or a walking group etc., In short, take up an activity where you see people continuously over time, therefore, as you become familiar with them, you can make an informed decision as to whether or not they’re worthy of the friend or the pruning status!
Sightseeing Cruises & Angling Trips
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Thoughts on friendships forged… Bring a As you were confined to quarters, f r ie nd – get (or your 5km), did you forge new a week free friendships with neighbours, peo(Offer availa ple who regularly walked by your ble until 26th Members receive a home, or with those you met on February your daily jog to that takeaway free cookbook and coffee dock in the park? Now that 2 weeks free we’re back to normal, which of with a 12 week these people will you miss and do Roscommon you feel it’s important to maintain block Wednesday mornings, that connection with them? 7:30am & 9:30am While these newly-forged Castlerea Strokestown ‘friendships’ may have inhabWednesday evenings, Tuesdays 4:30pm & ited the foreground of your life 5pm & 7pm 6:30pm during lockdown, it’s up to you Ballygar (and them if they miss you too) Thursday evenings, Sheila 087 4184581 whether they maintain that status 5pm & 7pm or whether they’ll now be relegated to the middle-ground, or to the Trish 087 8581325 background. In short, how much energy do slimmingworld.ie you want to invest in these fleeting lockdown, fellow slimmingworld.ie coffee drinkers? And finally, remember, nobody can be the perfect friend all the slimmingworld.ie time, and, while a good, solid friendship/relationship is certainly a bonus, it should never, ever be one-sided. In short…if you’re not a good friend yourself, how can you expect someone to be a good friend to you? Locally owned ... in the heart of the community
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Wed./Thurs.: 5 - 9pm Friday: 12 - 11pm Saturday: 12 - 11pm Sunday: 1 - 10pm • Booking advised for weekend dining •
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Step into Spring…with a Spring in our step
PART 1: Hughes’ …The Shop & Thatch Bar at Castlecoote
IN TIMES GONE BY…
CASTLECOOTE MEMORIES A three-part series by TONY CONBOY
Boyle-based author and historian Tony Conboy has penned an affectionate series of articles on memories of his youth in his native Castlecoote. The articles revolve around the local shop – Hughes’ – and to a lesser extent the adjoining Thatch Bar. A slice of social history, this series will be fascinating reading for people from the area, and further afield. Part 2 next week.
An aerial photograph of Hughes’ Shop & Thatch Bar at Castlecoote.
T
hey are nearly all gone now. They were the businesses which were located at many a crossroads throughout the country. They were comprised of the ‘the shop’ – which was often accompanied by the local pub. For me as a boy growing older in Castlecoote, the iconic building, which engages my memory now, was Hughes’ Shop, and to a lesser extent ‘The Thatch Bar’. It served nearly all the needs of the local community for the greater part of the 1900s. I passed it all the days that I went to the national school (not far along the road past it) and the emerging new church. It was at Hughes’ corner where men gathered to begin their journey, with hackney car man Tom Pat Heaney, to football matches in distant towns like Tuam and Castlebar. It was here that we played ‘pitch and toss’ on lazy summer days, posted our letters to family members in England and America, and waited for the ‘lift’ to the cinema with Pat Mannion in Roscommon town. We talked too of the many locals who had gone to England or were home from England. This was enhanced with some visitors from the United States, especially the Heaveys’ from Chicago. Most of all we talked of football and hurling and repeated the gossip of the world and of the locality. On those occasion that we had those ‘distinguished’ visitors to our home – from Chicago especially – one of us brothers would get the beck by our mother to come outside the kitchen, and were then dispatched to ‘cycle quickly up to the shop’ for ham and tomatoes and Swiss roll – and to ‘put it in the book’! Yes, that very important ‘book’ – the axle of the local economy. I have our family ‘book’ still. It covered the period from May 1946 to November 1959. It is a precise, detailed document which lists the products purchased and especially the ongoing balance of the account. It is decorated with signed-over stamps at irregular intervals which indicated a payment to reduce the eternal debit balance. Hughes’ shop had their regular range of groceries that kept the local farming community stocked at short notice. The importance of ‘The Book’ From May 1952 the pages of our ‘book’ list the following sample of goods bought: Bacon 7/- (shillings, a good deal of money then), the Irish Press 2d (pence). It was always the Press (we got), on weekdays and Sundays. Bread (pan loaf, although a
TOP: A photograph of employees and two customers in the Thatch Bar backyard circa 1956. From left: Jimmy Coyne from Galway. He was based in Castlecoote from 1953 to ’59 and was of great assistance in this project. He went to England, came back, was a regional manager with Spar, and now lives in Sligo. Second left is Jim Meally from Muff who worked with Mattie Hughes on the farm. Third in is Myra Kelly from near Creggs, who worked in the Thatch Bar circa 1956. She married Mickie McCormack, Fuerty. Fourth from left is Johnny Kelly who had returned from the U.S., and on right is local man Jack Mannion, a brother of Pat. Phil Regan, Athleague and Anne Cunniffe, LEFT: A recent photograph of Jimmy Coyne, who was of Creggs, pictured circa 1956. Jack Mannion is great assistance to the author on this project. barely visible in the background to the right.
batch loaf did exist; the sliced loaf was in the future). Cigs. 2/4 (for twenty. It was an era of smoking); Tomatoes 1/6 (which almost indicates there were visitors around); Shaving blade 2d (possibly a Mac’s Smile), nails 9d; Raisins 1/3; Shirt 15/10 (15 shillings and ten pence …looks expensive); sausages 2/4 (a treat) Lamp Wick 4d; Sauce 1/2; Onions 1/6; Jam (Red)2/3; Turnip seed 3/6; Paraffin 1/3; Rope 2/9; a half doz. Stout 4/6; 8 stone of flour 1/13/0; Bex 8d; Tide/Rinso/ Persil 1/1; and Lucozade. There is no mention of toilet paper! Some of these goods, such as sugar and tea, came in bulk boxes and had to be transferred into the various bags at half pound and single pound weight. The tea chest was a sought after item and had to be booked in advance. There is no record in ‘The Book’ of the Christmas Shop when special Christmasonly items enlarged the list into candles, treacle for a cake and custard & jelly for that singular dessert and much more. Degree of self-sufficiency This is a flavour of the goods of the time. The shopping, as recorded in ‘the book’, was regular but small. It was often done by men or a family member getting ‘messages’. For the matrons of the house shopping was an occasion to dress ap-
propriately for a day out in the local town with the string bags hung on the handlebars and the rear carrier also having a role. My mother often carried me on it to Roscommon town. Homes had a considerable degree of self-sufficiency in terms of butter, milk, eggs, vegetables, apples, and home-baked bread which only needed the ‘shop’ loaf as a supplement. Some houses killed a pig and salted it away in a big box to provide for the winter. A regular food for country people in the early 1950s was the rabbit, which was widely snared. Then a disease called myxomatosis ended the role of the rabbit in the diet. Some people fished or went shooting wild fowl on the river or the pheasant on farmland. It all contributed to whatever diversity of diet that existed. The Busy Shop ‘The Shop’ had its particularly busy times such as on Sunday after Mass when the Sunday papers and cigarettes were core items. The papers were The Press, The Independent, and a single copy of ‘The Times’ for a special resident across the river. I can picture the layout of the interior with its active ‘inside the door’ counter for the primary items, a sweet counter with an array of jars for sweets such as
bullseyes, liquorice sticks and penny toffee ‘penny’ bars and the many that I forget. Maybe there were Hersey bars because a group of young men were nominated as ‘The Hersey Gang’. There was a particular short counter which always attracted my attention. This had a line of big jars with assortments of sweets. Chocolate was special and getting a slender bar of it was an equally slender possibility. I seem to remember one occasion in particular when I appeared to have permission to access a more than generous quantity from these jars. This was enabled by my Godmother Mamie. It may have been after my First Communion. Then a little further on there was an area which was more seasonal with hay rakes and forks, a number of sleáns when in season, shovels and spades, rolls of rope and straw sunshine hats favoured by my father during the summer months. There was an area where ‘fletches’ (half a pig’s carcass) of bacon were kept for short periods as there was no refrigeration then. These were delivered by a C.I.E. lorry on a Friday and the ‘fletches’ did not survive the day on that counter. The store for the tank of paraffin oil for lamps was in a dark, damp, store a distance from the shop. Across the road was the busy ‘Thatched Bar’.
The shop was encased with shuttered windows and a big bar across the double doors in the porch though there was never any threat of burglary or anything like that. Christmas Shopping Christmas shopping is always special, encapsulating joy, excitement, anticipation and expectation. It crystallised on the day that the ‘big true Christmas Shop’ was brought home and the sturdy Raleigh bicycle hadn’t the capacity to cope with that. It was then that the donkey and cart, pony and trap (a lovely mode of transport), horse and cart, the odd tractor and carrier box and the rare car were to jostle for staging posts around the shop. What a picture they made. (The car owners were few: Dr. Coyne, Fathers Fleming and Keane, Mattie Hughes, and returned yank Johnny Kelly were representative). Jimmy Coyne says of this workday: “The atmosphere was such that I cannot describe but I can remember it as if it was yesterday. It was just magic”. When this array of normal groceries, enhanced with delicacies, arrived at the home, most of it was stored in a special room labelled as the ‘good room’ or the ‘top room’ of the house, not to be touched until the big day or the day before, if required. As youngsters we were curious to see what the shop owner added to our ‘shopping list’ as a reward for being a loyal customer through the year. People would have saved some extra money for this special outing helped by some early ‘Christmas card money’ from members of the family in England, or the magical dollar bills from connections in New York or other great cities in that dreamland of the 1950s. Hughes’s Home premises Part of the premises was the home of the Hughes’ family: Mattie, Nellie and Mamie, and later Carmel. The shop boys and shop girls also lived-in there. The shop was run in my early days by Mattie’s sister Nellie who was kind and generous, especially to her sometimes struggling customers. After Mattie married in the mid-50s, his wife, who was from a business background in Tullamore, introduced a new regime. The ‘book’ system was soon cast aside with a new reality and the payment of arrears called in. This was something of a shock to the system and this can be interpreted in the distressed final pages of our ‘Shop Book’!
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
FarmingPeople
Court case raises issues over dog attack legislation IFA National Sheep Chairman Kevin Comiskey said there are a number of key messages from the recent case in Gort District Court taken by a farmer who had his sheep savagely attacked by dogs. He said the substantive message is the deficiency in the current legislative system for the enforcement of responsible dog ownership and dog control. “The level of sanctions that can be applied do not reflect the savagery and trauma these uncontrolled dogs are causing. The absence of a centralised database to identify ownership and
those responsible for the dogs, and the lack of enforcement of microchipping, are all contributing to this persistent and escalating problem,” he said. Mr. Comiskey said a farmer who has had his flock savaged and his income decimated should not have to resort to the court system and risk the associated costs because of the failure of the authorities to have appropriate enforcement and sanctions in place for dog owners. He said the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue gave a commitment at the recent
IFA AGM to put in place better legislation, and that his needs to happen as a matter of urgency. “The irresponsible behaviour of some dog owners continues to lead to devastating consequences on farms and must stop,” he said. “This is a critical time of year on sheep farms as lambing gets underway. Dog attacks are causing unimaginable suffering for sheep and lambs and huge economic losses for farmers. “Dogs should not be allowed in or near farmland and all dog owners must behave in a responsible way and adhere to this”.
Teagasc Webinar on Fertiliser and Lime advice for 2022
Liming could be your cheapest option to grow grass this year according to Teagasc Drystock Advisers.
< BY DONAL MCCABE AND SHANE DEVANEY, DRYSTOCK ADVISORS, TEAGASC LONGFORD
Many farmers will be left with little option but to reduce the quantity of chemical fertiliser they apply this year due to the massive price hike of these products leaving fears of a grass shortage. There are a number of things farmers can do to help boost their grass supply in 2022, some of which we will go through now, the rest we will cover in more detail on a Zoom webinar titled ‘Fertiliser and Lime Advice 2022’ on February 21st. Registra-
tions details can be found at the end of the article. Lime This year liming your farm will be the cheapest source to grow grass. With fertiliser prices at over 2.5 times last year’s price, farmers will need to look at cheaper alternatives. By applying two tonnes of lime per acre you are potentially unlocking up to 50 units of nitrogen, the equivalent to two bags of chemical nitrogen per acre. The cost of spreading two tonnes of lime per acre is around €50 versus €72 for two bags of nitrogen. This is a saving of €22 per acre.
Monday 21st February 8pm on Zoom
We would advise to apply lime to grazing ground as soon as weather permits, as you will get the benefit of it later in the spring and summer. Hold off on spreading lime on silage ground until silage is cut, as sometimes lime can contaminate the grass which could reduce the quality of your silage. Lime also had the benefit of unlocking the phosphorus and potassium locked up in the soil, so if you do apply that bag of fertiliser then you will get more efficient use from your N, P and K. Leave a gap of three months before applying slurry to ground where lime has recently been applied as you will lose the benefit of the nitrogen in the slurry due to an interaction between the lime and the ammonia. Start planning now on what best fits your farm to grow grass for the year ahead. Slurry Remember to consider the nutrient value of slurry when devising your fertiliser plan. Although variable, the nutrient content of cattle slurry is approximately 5 units of P and 32 units of K per 1,000 gallons. The nitrogen content varies from approximately nine units per 1,000 gallons where slurry is applied in spring by low emission means versus approximately three units where slurry is applied in summer with the splash plate tanker. Pig slurry typically contains 19 units of N (variable), seven units of P and 20 units of Potash per 1,000 gallons. Several factors will impact on the quantities of slurry you are permitted to import. Protected Urea While per tonne this product appears to be relatively expensive, it works out cheaper per unit of N than CAN fertiliser as well as being better for the environment. Managing grass Farmers who have fields divided will grow significantly more grass than farmers who are letting their stock have free reign. Remember the old saying: ‘It takes grass to grow grass’. Grass will grow as much between days 14 to 21 after removing stock as it will in the first 14 days. Unfortunately, we can’t do anything about the current high fertiliser prices and we can only hope for the best in regards to the weather but our management practices can impact on the quantity of grass on our farms this year. You can register for the Teagasc Zoom webinar here; http://bit.ly/RNLDzoom. All farmers are welcome and it’s free. Teagasc Advisors Shane Devaney and Enda O’Hart will be presenting, Séamus Nolan, Dairy Advisor, and Donal McCabe will be host and co-host respectively. Follow #RNLDwebinars
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
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Castlerea MART WATCH Large numbers of stock presented for sale this week with prices and trade holding for all categories of stock on offer. The bullock and heifer rings witnessed good clearances with demand for quality stores clearly evident in both rings. The weanling rings, with bigger numbers on offer, saw bulls peak at €3.24 a kilo while heifer weanlings topped out at €3.56 a kilo. Dry cows made up to €2,200 with demand on par with last week, while the breeding stock recorded good clearances also. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,340 to €1,800 per head. Springers made from €890 to €1,760 per head. Young calves made from €80 to €360 while runners made from €370 to €810 for continental lots. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart this Thursday (17th) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings on offer. All sales commence at 11 am, with three rings in operation. Sample prices for bullocks: Lmx 485kgs €1500, Ch 465kgs €1370, Lm 450kgs €1280, Sax 515kgs €1510, Ch 520kgs €1480, Ch 585kgs €1660, AA 580kgs €1530, AA 630kgs €1570, AA 700kgs €1760, Ch 680kgs €1690. Heifers: Lm 405kgs €1260, Lm 380kgs €1170, Lm 410kgs €1150, Chx 480kgs €1420, Aux 495kgs €1410, AA 450kgs €1360, Ch 550kgs €1630, Au 625kgs €1670, Ch 655kgs €1800. Dry cows: Chx 940kgs €2200, Ch 770kgs €1760, Chx 810kgs €1760, Sim 795kgs €1730, BBx 745kgs €1730, AA 750kgs €1680. Weanling bulls: Ch 290kgs €900, Ch 235kgs €770, Ch 265kgs €860, Lm 275kgs €880, Lm 495kgs €1410, Lm 480kgs €1330, Ch 425kgs €1220. Weanling heifers: Lm 255kgs €910, Lm 270kgs €890, AA 295kgs €790, Lm 355kgs €1140, Lm 335kgs €1050, Ch 365kgs €1020, Chx 435kgs €1430.
Roscommon IFA thanks Bóthar contributors
Roscommon IFA has issued its heartfelt thanks to a number of local people who recently contributed to its heifer drive in aid of Bóthar. A total of sixteen animals were donated to farming families in Kosovo just before Christmas. The association wishes to thank the following people: Shane and Eva Fitzgerald, Killaderry Ballyforan, Ballinasloe and reared by Liam and William Brandon, Cargins, Donamon; Kevin and Lucy Flynn, Ratra, Tibohine; Michael and Frances Gallagher, Lismoyle, Curraghboy, who donated one heifer and reared one; Gerard and Angela Nerney, Doughill, Curraghroe (donated one and reared one); David and Emily Cunningham, Carnalasson, Fourmilehouse (reared a heifer);
Three generations of the Gallagher family from Lismoyle, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon who donated a heifer and reared one as part of the Roscommon IFA heifer drive in aid of Bóthar.
Micheal Duffy, Derryneil, Athlone (reared a heifer); Cam Bóthar Group, who donated three heifers and Ballygar Bóthar Group, who donated five heifers.
Seven heifers were sent to Kosovo on December 14th and nine were sent on February 8th to aid farming families in Kosovo. Roscommon IFA
Job done Grandad! Young Luke Cardwell pictured on the family farm near Lecarrow recently. Photograph courtesy of Declan Martin
would also like to thank Seamus Fallon and James Gallagher for assisting in the transportation of the heifers to Roscrea Mart. Thanks also to the
veterinarians and AI personnel who gave of their services for free and to anyone who contributed in any way towards this project.
IFA to meet Assistant Commissioner on crime IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe said recent attacks on elderly people in rural Ireland are very concerning and confirmed a meeting with Garda Assistant Commissioner Paula Hillman in order to discuss measures to make communities safer. “Whatever resources are needed to assist the Gardai in their work have to be made available. We will be encouraging the farming community to provide whatever help they can to support the work of the Gardaí. Apprehending those responsible requires a co-ordinated response,” he said. Mr. Rushe said the victims of these attacks were targeted by gangs and subjected to horrific assaults. “Nobody should feel under threat in their own home,” he continued.
Roscommon MART WATCH There were increased numbers at this week’s cattle sale on Friday, February 11th, with a brisk trade for all classes. Bullocks averaged from €2.69 per kilo up to €3.20 per kilo, but heifer numbers were small due to next week’s special sale. Prices averaged from €2.44 per kilo up to €2.60 per kilo with all lots sold. There was a full clearance of dry cows, with lots fetching from an average of €2.17 up to €2.59 per kilo. There was a good mix of customers, both at the ringside and online. On Friday, February 18th, at 11 am, we will have our spring sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows. Numbers were well at our sale for weanlings and suckler cows on Tuesday, February 15th, with a brisk trade for both bulls and heifers. Bulls averaged from €2.69 per kilo up to a max of €3.47 per kilo with just four lots unsold. Heifer weanlings averaged from €2.65 per kilo up to €3.64 per kilo, again only fourlots missed. Springer heifers made
from €1,000 up to €1,700, and cows with calves at foot made from €1,800 up to €2,100.Customers were active both online and at the ringside. There will be no weanling and suckler cow sale next Tuesday, February 22nd. The next show and sale of weanlings and suckler cows will take place on Tuesday, March 1st, at 4 pm. Booking will be accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, February 24th. There was a steady trade for hoggets this week at our sheep sale on Wednesday, February 16th, with smaller numbers on offer. Hoggets made up to €155, stag ewes fetched up to €164, in-lamb ewes made up to €210, and ewes and lambs made up to €330 for two ewes with four lambs at foot. Our next sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, February 23rd, at 11 am. Our sheep scanning service runs on Wednesday next from 9 to 10 am. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Please note all sheep must be
tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Sample prices for heifers: Lim X 580kgs €1460, Lim X 530kgs €1380, Lim X 505kgs €1270, 2 AAX 495kgs €1200, Simm X 495kgs €1200, Simm X 495kgs €1160, BBX 455kgs €1100, Simm X 480kgs €1080. Bullocks: Char X 850kgs €2320, Lim X 785kgs €2210, Simm X 765kgs €2190, Char X 680kgs €2110, Char X 710kgs €2100, PTX 630kgs €2020, 3 Lim X 625kgs €1950, Lim X 615kgs €1920, Char X 655kgs €1940, 2 Char X 602kgs €1770, 2 Lim X 595kgs €1750, Char X 595kgs €1700, 2 HEX 687.50kgs €1670, 2 Char X 532kgs €1450, 5 Lim 548kgs €1460, Char X 475kgs €1260, Char X 360kgs €1080. Dry cows: Lim X 895kgs €2320, Char X 885kgs €2260, Lim X 830kgs €2150, Lim 790kgs €1960, Char X 805kgs €1940, BBX 700kgs €1780, Lim X 765kgs €1750, Char X 680kgs €1670, Char X 575kgs €1160, Simm X 615kgs €1520, Simm 725kgs €1550, BBX 720kgs €1490. Weanling heifers: Char X 410kgs €1230 - €3.00 per
kilo, Char X 420kgs €1160 - €2.76 per kilo, Char X 420kgs €1140 - €2.71 per kilo, 2 Lim X 410kgs €1080 - €2.63 per kilo, Char X 305kgs €1080 - €3.54 per kilo, Char X 330kgs €1070 - €3.24 per kilo, Lim X 310kgs €1000 - €3.22 per kilo AAX 310kgs €880 - €2.83 per kilo, Lim 295kgs €870 €2.94 per kilo. Weanling bulls: Char 580kgs €1610 - €2.77 per kilo, Char X 545kgs €1560 - €2.86 per kilo, Char X 515kgs €1470 - €2.85 per kilo, Lim X 490kgs €1460 - €2.97 per kilo, Simm X 480kgs €1280 - €2.66 per kilo, Lim X 425kgs €1270 - €2.98 per kilo, Char X 405kgs €1250 - €3.08 per kilo, AUX 385kgs €1240 - €3.22 per kilo, Lim X 365kgs €1110 – €3.04 per kilo, Char X 325kgs €1080 - €3.32 per kilo, BBX 355kgs €1040 - €2.92 per kilo, BBX 325kgs €975 – €3.00 per kilo. Finished hoggets: 53.1kgs €155, 55kgs €155, 51.1kgs €154, 54.2kgs €154, 50.7kgs €152, 49.7kgs €151, 50.3kgs €150, 49kgs €148, 46.6kgs €140, 46.8kgs €140. Store hoggets: 43.8kgs €124, 38.3kgs €120, 38kgs €114, 36.1kgs €106.
33
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
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CONSTRUCTION
Stephen Casey
Construction General Building l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims l
CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com
Strokestown, Co. Roscommon
087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com
• Timber Floors fitted Solid or Laminate • Doors • Stairs • Wall Panelling
Phone Tommy
086 8934576 COUNSELLING
COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you affected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com
COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?
DRIVING LESSONS
Paul McStay
DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon
EDT Lessons Available Telephone:
094 96 20099 Mobile:
086 8936012
This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation
FENCING/GATES
email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk
web: www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com
GARDENING
JOE HEALY
Tree Services
• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured
Phone:
087 2721193
Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on
CORBETT
087 2346364
FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l
For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l
Tel: 087 2172281
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!
THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
< GOLDEN DOODLE PUPS FOR SALE: From a registered breeder, cream/ beige, ready 22/3/22. Wormed, vaccinated and micro chipped €700. Pure bred sire - white golden Retriever and a Red Doodle. Tel: 089 4117337 < FOR SALE: Selection of household goods including two pine coffee tables. Phone: 087 9657933 or 090 6633084.
Des Kelly Fencing
Please call Glynis on
085 2514394
FOR SALE
TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING
General Maintenance l Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on l
087 6558597
www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com
GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available
Phone John on
087 2860428
GARDENING
• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.
Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165
www.parklawntreeservices.
GATELY GARDENING
Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496
HAIRDRESSER
KATHLEEN’S HAIRDRESSING SERVICE Ladies and Gents Hairdressing Services. Also Mobile service available. Evening appointments available. Free 10 mins Indian Head Massage for every appointment
For enquiries Tel./text: 085 8514270 or tel. 094 9643286
Email: kathfinnhair@gmail.com SEE FACEBOOK PAGE
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
PLANNINGS
Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural
086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com
facebook.com/moleskinarch
FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Marcus and Tara Bligh are applying to Roscommon County Council for the following: 1. Permission to demolish existing rear extension/ chimneys on existing dwelling house 2. Planning Permission to construct new side extension along with replacing existing front door with window 3. Planning permission to construct new agricultural farm shed along with all ancillary site development works Cloonkeen, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 XD32
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Cathal Gill am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works Coolshagtena Townland , Roscommon , Co. Roscommon.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 66 34365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to erect an agricultural shed together with ancillary services at Kelbegly, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Enda Doran
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL CCA Motors Ltd intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for change of use of existing garage premises to HCV and NCT Test Centre, refurbish and extend existing garage premises to side, retention of store and paint shop and demolition of same to facilitate the change of use of existing premises associated services and site development work at Cloonybeirne, Roscommon, 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.
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Deeney Engineering and Planning Services, are applying to Roscommon County Council, on behalf of Elaine and Tom McNicholas, for Retention Planning Permission for: 1. Retention of existing dwelling as constructed, and all ancillary site works. 2. Retention of shed as constructed and all ancillary site works at Kiltybranks TD, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.
This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Deeney Engineering and Planning Services Tel: 086 2503109
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Niall and Helen McSharry intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic garage/store and boat house, associated site development works and services at Carrowskeheen, Kilglass, 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.
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Keadew West, Keadew, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. I, Enda Burke intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for development consisting of the demolition of an existing derelict two storey dwelling/garage and the construction of 2 No. two storey detached dwelling houses, 2 No. detached domestic garages, car parking spaces, connection to existing foul/surface water drainage together with all ancillary site works and services at the above address. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority 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.
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house and domestic garage, with sewerage treatment plant and percolation area, and ancillary site development works at Castlesampson, Athlone Signed Michelle Galvin
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions , or may refuse to grant permission.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house and domestic garage, with sewerage treatment plant and percolation area, and ancillary site development works at Corboley , Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Signed Shane Beirne.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions , or may refuse to grant permission.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Paul Gleeson & Ciara Fallon intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage/fuel store, proprietary treatment system, percolation area and associated works at Cloongowna, Bealnamulla, Athlone, Co Roscommon. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 090 6624681 / 087 635 8949 / stephen@sbarchitect.ie
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon F U R T H E R INFORMATION APPLICANT: Katie Hardiman & Kevin Kilkenny APPLICATION ADDRESS: DUGRA, DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON PLANNING REFERENCE: PD/21/577 DEVELOPMENT: PLANNING PERMISSION TO CONSTRUCT A DOMESTIC DWELLING HOUSE WITH GARAGE AND DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH PERCOLATION AREA, ALONG WITH ALL ANCILLARY SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS 1) Significant Further Information in relation to the application has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Authority during its public opening hours, and 2) A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority. 3) There will be no fee payable on a further submission/ observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/ observation. Signed:
PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist
Sarah Fleming
CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at
Tullys
HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l
For any of your foot issues call:
094 9620009
PODIATRIST
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: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK
• 20 years experience Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Jimmy McGlynn am applying to Roscommon Council for the following: PERMISSION TO RETAIN AND COMPLETE DOMESTIC DWELLING HOUSE AND CARRY OUT ALL ANCILLARY SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS AT BALLYTOOHEY, TERMONBARRY, CO ROSCOMMON, N39 AP94
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers
The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC
Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)
For Bookings Contact:
College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,
(087) 707 5803
(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)
Co Galway H53 D7W8
(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines
PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I.
Department of Health Approved
EVERY FRIDAY
St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment
085 1503353 086 8538404
Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com
• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services
Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Classifieds PODIATRIST 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
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
SOULMATES < SOULMATES Don’t be alone, meet that special person for friendship and romance with like minded people. Safe, secure and confidential. Tel: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250
TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD
Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP
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
REFLEXOLOGY
REFLEXOLOGY
TOP QUALITY TURF 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone:
083 0684011
< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Net bags of seasoned firewood only €3 per bag, buy 20 bags get 1 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf only €35 per bag. Half tonne bags of Ash/Beech only €35 per bag. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 or Tony 087 7055800
MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)
Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)
Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon
Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook
ROOFING
Phone: 091 416029 Liam or Mick 085 7619827
Affordable Roofing and Gutter Repairs, we replace and install in Roscommon area. Our Services: • Roof Repairs • Gutter Repairs • New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Gutter Exchange • Lead Valley Roof • Cleaning Gutter • Cleaning
email: roofingcontractors27@gmail.com
Phone: 091 416029
USEFUL SERVICES
Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business
OIL BOILER SERVICE
ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 9373445 087 9100477
Bulk bags of Turf available Tel: Donal
086 2721812 (All areas)
Also loads of Peat bedding for livestock (delivered)
USEFUL SERVICES
DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie
Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:
087 9657933
or 090 66 33084
MG Services • Tiling (Wall and Floor) • Timber Floors • Timber Fencing, Decking • Garden Maintenance • Power Washing AND ALL OTHER JOBS CONSIDERED
Telephone:
087 2478609
Plumbing & Maintenance
PAINTER & DECORATOR
• Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance • Boiler Servicing • Heating Installation • Call for FREE QUOTATION
Phone Alan on:
Contact Luke on
TURF AVAILABLE
USEFUL SERVICES
085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.
SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01
TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815
Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!
THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!
THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.C. THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.C. THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.C.
090 6661635 or Mobile:
087 2683079
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR
Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance
MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed
086 4679798
KENNY R.I.P.
086 2437376
087 9795226
CONNOLLY Kenneth
(24th Anniversary) In loving memory of our darling son and brother
Phone:
Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie GUTTER CLEANING ALSO AVAILABLE Telephone
Sadly missed along the way, quietly remembered every day, no longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.
Email or call for Sample Pack
Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured.
WINDOW CLEANING
In loving memory of Sean McNeill who passed away on the 20th of February 2020.
WANTED:
Alan O’Toole
Gallowstown, Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)
19th February 1998
For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN
McNEILL Sean
Loved and remembered by his wife Mary, sons and daughters, grand children, daughter in law, sons in law, extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon Town on Saturday, 19th of February at 11am.
Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given
Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.
FAMILYNOTICES .... ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES
Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com
~ No morning dawns, no night returns, that we don’t think of you Kenny. ~ We think of you as living in our hearts and those you touched for nothing loved is ever lost. and you were loved so much ~ Lonely is our home without you Kenny, life to us was never the same. All the world would be like Heaven, if we could have you back again. ~
Sleep tight darling, missing you always, loved forever, Mum, Dad, Alex and family. XXX
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McDONAGH Delia
Tarmon Road, Ballindrimley, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 20th September 2021.
O’CONNOR Tommy
KILGARRIFF Paul
Who passed away peacefully on 17th February 2021. (Aged 92)
Ballygar, Galway Who passed away on 17th February 2014 R.I.P.
Tullaghan, Ballymurry.
BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added
CONTACT HAZEL
087 6758874
Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com
We, the family of the late Delia McDonagh, would like to express our gratitude to all of Delia’s friends, relations, work colleagues, (telephonists, Eircom employees, colleagues in Spar and HSE colleagues) and neighbours for all your friendship, kindness and support given to Delia over the years. We also wish to thank our own friends, neighbours and work colleagues for their support. We thank Fr. McManus most sincerely for celebrating Delia’s Funeral Mass and Eoin the organist. To the Doctors, Nurses and all who cared for Delia, we extend a special thanks. We thank Delia’s neighbours, friends and work colleagues, our own neighbours and friends and the people of Castlerea who stood along the funeral route to support us. We also appreciate the people who called to Delia’s home and brought food and shared their memories with us. We greatly appreciate all who telephoned us, sent Mass and sympathy cards, flowers, condolences online and all who contributed to the Palliative Care fund. We thank McDonagh Funeral Directors and John the grave digger for their professionalism and kindness. We would like to acknowledge everyone who has helped and supported us at this difficult time. Mass has been offered for all your intentions.
MONTH’S MIND MASS FINERTY Anne
Coolderry, Four-Roads, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 8th January 2022
We, the family of the late Tommy wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us on the sad loss of our beloved Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad and Uncle. Thanks to all those who sent mass cards, letters, phone messages, text messages and left messages on rip.ie. Your kind and supportive words and actions gave us great support, particularly at a time where family and friends could not travel in person to support us and show their love and respect for Tommy. We wish to thank all those who lined the roads when Tommy made his last journey home to Tullaghan and those who lined the roads for his Funeral Cortege to St. Patrick’s Church in Knockcroghery and finally Gailey Cemetery. Our sincere thanks to the staff at Abbey Haven Nursing Home, your kindness, empathy and professionalism will be remembered by Tommy’s family. A special word of thanks also to Fr. Ray Milton for celebrating Tommy’s Funeral Mass and to Enya Reilly for her beautiful vocal renditions during the ceremony. Thanks to Smyths Funeral Home for their professionalism in arranging Tommy’s funeral and a special thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Tommy’s final resting place. To those who dropped food to Tommy’s home thank you, and to those who helped and supported in any way from near and far thank you, it was very much appreciated. Forever loved and always missed by his children, Stephanie, Pauline, Patricia, David, Eithne; grandchildren, Ryan, Aidan, Cieran, Caithlin, Declan, Cormac, Keeva, Rory and Conor; great grandson Ronan and son-in-law Fergal. Tommy’s Anniversary mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, March 5th at 7pm.
McSHARRY Kathleen
The family of the late Anne (Nan) Finerty wish to extend their sincere gratitude to all those who offered sympathy and support on the sad loss of our dear aunt and gran aunt. We thank everyone who paid their respects at the funeral home and those who attended the Funeral Mass in person or via live stream. We were very touched by the number of people who sent Mass Cards, flowers and posted condolences. A very special thank you to Fr. Beirne for celebrating Nan’s Funeral Mass and making it so personal and meaningful. Thanks to Gerry Dowd and Grace Hevehan for enhancing the liturgy with their singing and music. Thank you to the gravediggers for preparing Nan’s final resting place. To Michael Dempsey, Undertaker, thank you for handling the funeral arrangements in a very professional and compassionate manner. To the staff of Oakwood Nursing Home, thank you for your care of Nan during the last few months of her life. A special word of gratitude to Eileen and Martina for their kindness and help over the last number of years. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Nan’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four-Roads on Friday, 18th February at 7 pm.
10 Riverside Avenue, Roscommon (5th Anniversary) With love we remember Kathleen McSharry who sadly passed away on 13th February 2017
BEIRNE Anthony
Forever loved and sadly missed by the McSharry family, relatives and friends. Masses offered.
Deep are the memories, precious they stay no passing of time can take them away.
Forever in our hearts. Sadly missed by your wife Bridie and loving family. Anniversary Mass will be held in Strokestown Parish Church on Sunday, February 20th at 11.30am.
FALLON Ollie Kilcash, Rahara (15th Anniversary)
DEVANEY Nora Convent Court, Roscommon/ Tubbercurry, Sligo (1st Anniversary)
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 will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 19th February at 7.30pm.
BRACKEN Liam Grange, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 14th February 2020 (2nd Anniversary)
Bridge St., Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary)
In loving memory of Anthony J. Beirne, who passed away on February 19th 2013
Your love continues to light my way, your memory will never leave me.
You were so very special and had the nicest ways. You did so very much in life and never asked for praise.
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 Second Anniversary Mass takes place in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-MileHouse on Friday, 18th February at 8pm.
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 Knockcroghery Church on Friday, 11th March at 7pm.
THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. L.F.
In loving memory of Nora who died on the 16th February, 2021.
Your life was one of thoughtful deeds, a helping hand to others 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 and 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, 20th February, 2022 at 10am. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace that she so richly deserves.
37
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE BEATTIE Sile
CARROLL Patricia
KELLY Maura (née Tully)
Ballinaboy, Roscommon Who passed away on 23rd February 2011 (11th Anniversary)
Fearagh, Ballymurray, Roscommon
Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.
Remembering Sile on her 36th Birthday which occurs on the 19th February. Your Birthday is here but you aren’t – I’d send a gift but know that I can’t. So I’ll make a wish upon a star – to carry my love to where you are.
Sadly missed by all the family.
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.
Maura’s daughter Susan, son-in-law William, grandchildren Éile and Karl would like to thank all those who showed such great kindness to us following Maura’s death on 19 January last. We were greatly comforted by the number of messages of condolence, mass cards, sympathy cards, letters, telephone calls, messages and flowers that we received. Maura had a short illness and was cared for expertly by the doctors, nurses and staff at University Hospital Galway. Our deepest appreciation to Dr Alexandra Robinson, staff at Abbey Street Medical Centre, Roscommon, Ambulance staff and staff at RosMed Pharmacy for the exceptional medical care given to Maura. We were deeply touched by the generosity of our wonderful neighbours and friends for all they have done for us in preparation for the funeral, including those who brought food and refreshments to our home. We wish to acknowledge those who came to our house and comforted us; to those who lined the journey for Maura from her home to the Church for her funeral mass and those who attended the funeral mass and burial, thank you. To the family and friends who travelled long distances and to those who could not attend in person but joined online, thank you for being with us and participating in the funeral service. A sincere thank you to Rev Joseph Ali CC who led the celebration of Maura’s life with warmth and consideration. Thank you to the altar society and stewards at St Patrick’s Church Knockcroghery for their great care. Thank you also to the Vocalist and Organist Derek Mahady and all who participated in the mass. We thank Pat and Gillian Smyth at Smyth’s Funeral Directors Ltd, Roscommon for their professional services and direction at a difficult time. To the friends who prepared Maura’s final resting place so expertly in Gailey Cemetery, thank you. What comes through so clearly in the messages from those who knew Maura was her sense of collegiality, kindness and compassion. Keep her in your hearts and prayers, remember her often and smile for all that she brought to those who knew her. Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Maura’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held on Saturday 19th February at 11:00am, St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery, Roscommon.
To a Dearest Mother. If we could visit heaven, on this our saddest day, maybe for a moment, our pain would go away. We’d put our arms around you, and whisper words so true, that living life without you is very hard to do. We cannot bring the old days back, when we were all together, But loving thoughts and memories will stay with us forever.
Always loved and sadly missed by her family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday 20th February at 10.00 am
THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. N.T.
COYNE Teresa Turville, Tremane, Roscommon Who passed away on the 17th February 2008 14th Anniversary away from home.
You can only have one mother, patient, kind and true, no other friend in all the world will be the same to you. When other friends forsake you, to mother you will return, for all her loving kindness she asks nothing in return. As we look upon her picture sweet memories we recall of a face so full of sunshine and a smile for one and all. Sweet Jesus take this message to our dear mother up above, tell her how we miss her and give her all our love.
Remembered with love everyday by Joe, Adrian Linda, Matthew, Adrianna, Mark, Anne and Clement . Masses offered.
FAMILY NOTICES
• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance
DUFFY Martin (11th Anniversary) In loving memory of Martin Duffy Culleen, Knockcroghery and Derryneil, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 23rd February 2011 R.I.P.
Another year has passed away, so many things have happened, we wanted you to share. So many times we thought of you and wished that you were here. Your memories are so precious, your presence missed so much, you will always be remembered and loved by all of us.
Sadly missed by wife Marie, daughters Amanda and Martina, sons Loughlinn and Michael, grandchildren Kate, Hannah, Matthew, Ebha, Isobella, Anthony, Adam and Emily, daughtersin-law Martina and Louise, brothers, sisters and families. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 22nd April at 7pm.
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)
In loving memory of a loving partner, daughter, sister, Sile who passed away on 17th February 2020 (Aged 33 years, R.I.P.) Come to Me God saw you were getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so he put His arms around you, and whispered, “Come to me”. With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands to rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us that he only takes the best.
From your life partner Tom, heartbroken mother Mary, sister Sinead, brothers Cathal, Fergal and Padraig.
MALYNN John & Margaret Late of Main Street, Roscommon (26th and 30th Anniversaries)
Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
BEATTIE Sile
There is no night without a dawning, no Winter without a Spring and beyond deaths dark horizon our hearts once more will sing. For those who leave us for a while, have only gone away, out of a restless careworn world into a brighter day.
Sadly missed and always remembered by their daughter Rosemary.
In Our Hearts Along the road of suffering you found a little lane that took you up to Heaven and ended all your pain. You may be out of sight we may be worlds apart but you are always in our prayers and forever in our hearts.
To the best auntie, missed every day, from Daniel, James (your godson), Oscar, Connor, Dylan, Peggy, Oisin and Molly. Anniversary Mass will be held in Rahara Church on Sunday, 20th February at 10am.
38
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
AtYourService BLINDS
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
CARS
LIFE COACH
FARMING
Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE BRENDAN DOOLIN
TEL: (090) 96 88606
Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.
(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651
Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928
CHIMNEY REPAIRS
- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed
- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090
9673336 Mob: 086 2678350
Lowest price guaranteed
We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal
Daily collection
INSURANCE CLAIMS
CLEANING Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA
Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA
info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 0879818153 9818153Co. Galway info@mhla.ie Mountbellew, 091 || 087 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 Certified Dip in Loss Certified Certified Dip Dip in in Loss Loss Adjusting Adjusting Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Loss Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services
KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES
M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892
DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE SHOWROOM:
Racecourse Road, Roscommon
Chimney Problems
We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS
Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining
uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon
Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed
INSULATION
Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie
Chris’s Window Service
Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.
l
Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4
email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes
Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway Estate, Galway
091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie
www.ecowise.ie
Advisor
Loss Assessor Services Member of the Insurance PROPERTY Institute of Ireland
RO S l
Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
ROS Property Services
Extensions l Renovations l Property Maintenance
P: 090 66 70996 M: 085 2162555 E:rospropertyservices@gmail.com RECYCLING
Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site
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
086 6002721
to discuss your requirements
Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com
Online Services offered for healing the mind, body and soul. Hypnotherapy & Mind Coaching: -Confidence -Covid 19 Stress Buster -Inner Child Work -Past Life Regression -Phobias -Smoking Cessation -Sports Performance -Weight Loss Distant Healing Sessions: -Bio-Energy -I. E.T. Healing -Spiritual Healing -House Clearing/Blessings Esoteric Aura Readings Ray Path Healing Workshop - working with the Archangels to cleanse, clear all the lower bodies of mental, and emotional karmic patterns, strengthens the aura, enhances a better relationship with your soul, promoting clear guidance, intuitive abilities, learn how to consciously co-create more positivity into your life. (Upcoming workshop Saturday the 2nd of April 2022 online).
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
Contact Chris on 089-6057885.
RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES
l
Cathal Dooley 087 6579064
20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes
Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting
info@mhla.ie
HYPNOTHERAPY & MIND COACHING
ApprovedProduct Product Member of the PSAB-GI Approved Member Approved Member of of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Advisor Product Advisor by the Central www.mhla.ie Regulated Advisor Regulated by the the Central Central Regulated by Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member ofofthe Insurance Bank of Ireland Institute Ireland Institute of Ireland Institute of Ireland Approved Product Member of the PSAB-GI
l
• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection
OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)
Mountbellew, Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway
Cleaning Services • Roscommon
info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie
CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (INCLUDING PUBLIC SECTOR) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (INCLUDING COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS) CHANGING JOB / GET THAT PROMOTION!
For appointment call me on 086 8229606
S tephen H oare
Email:
GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS
PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, ETC)
Tel: 087 0944027
• Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’
086 8229606
CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching
RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL
Castlerea ELV Recycling Ltd., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231
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
VETERINARY
QUARRY
WARD BROS QUARRY SUPPLIERS OF ALL TYPES OF: • Stone • Sand & Gravel • Topsoil • Readymix • Plant Hire
FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL
071 96 33222
E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com
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
(Temporary)
#
Fixed Term contractRoscommon covering leave until 10th of June, 39 People Fridaymaternity 18 February 2022 2022. telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Classifieds ThisToisadvertise, a full-time temporary position to cover Maternity leave commencing in January 2022. The successful candidate will Appointments provide a range of supports to jobseekers and employers, including:EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES WITH ST HILDA’S SERVICES We now wish to recruit a • Initial Assessment PSYCHOLOGIST EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES WITH ST and HILDA’Spreparation SERVICES • Guidance, planning for Employment EmployAbility Roscommon is an employment support service for people who St. Hilda’s Services is a voluntary organisation, grant aided bynow the HSE. Roscommon West Business Park, 1 stlive Floor, Block We wishEstablished to recruit ain have a disability, health condition, illness or injury, in Co. Tower Roscommon andA, are • Job Sourcing 1964, St. Hilda’s provides services to people with an intellectual disability. If you have GolfinLinks Rd, Roscommon, F42 TD98 seeking employment the open labour market. The service is funded on an annual a passion for working with persons with intellectual disability and you possess the PSYCHOLOGIST Tel: 090of6628608 Email:Applications info@rosemp.ie On-the-Job Support and Coaching basis by the Department Social Protection. are invited from suitably relevant skills•and experience, we would love to hear from you: Website: www.rosemp.ie qualified candidates for the following position: Ref. 22/01. Psychologist – Basic Grade • Advice Part-Time and Support to Employers Employ Ability is an employment support service for people who Part-Time Assistant Based in St Hilda’s Athlone have a disability, healthAdministrative or injury, live in County St. Hilda’s Services is a voluntary organisation, grant aided by the HSE. Established in 1964, St. Hilda’s provides services tocondition, people withillness an • Follow-up Support and Mentoring to both Employers and Roscommon and the arerelevant seeking employment in the open labour intellectual disability. If you have a passion for working with persons with intellectual disability and you possess skills and Commencing in March 2022, initially until 31st December 2022, thereafter Overall Purpose of the Post: market. The service is funded by the Department of Employment experience, we would love to hear from you: Provide a psychology service to Employees meet the identified and emerging needs of dependent on continuity of DSP funding. Affairs and Social Protection. Applications are invited from service users who are supported by St Hilda’s Services. The focus of this position is Ref. 22/01. Psychologist – Basic Grade suitably qualified candidates for2/3 the following position: behaviour support. Hours: 14 hours per week. Flexible over days The candidate will work a 39 hour week. Part-Time Location: Roscommon Town St. Hilda’s Services is seeking to appoint a Psychologist who willHilda’s be responsible Based in St Athlone Full-Time A qualification and /or experience of placing people in for the following: Job Overview • Provision of psychological assessment, intervention to service users as appropriate. Reporting to the Project Coordinator, providing support and assistance in the Employment Facilitator Employment aredisabilities desirable This includes supports to Post: our service users with intellectual presenting but not essential as some training will Overall Purpose of the following areas: with a diversity of needs including Autism, mental health difficulties, behaviours # (Temporary) be This post requires high professional standards and that areadescribed as challenging, personal family relationships issues, Provide psychology serviceprovided. to meet the and identified and emerging needs of service users who areRESPONSIBILITIES supported by St Hilda’s DUTIES AND Fixed Term contract covering maternity leave until 10th of June, dementia and problems associated with aging, issues in relation to the Services. The focus of this position is behaviour support. in particular the ability to communicate well with service users development of individualised service arrangements. 2022. • Sage Payroll administration • All aspects of PAYE • Engage in functional assessments of behaviour and collaborate in the This is• Accounts a full-time temporary position to cover Maternity leave and employers. payable and receivable/ Invoice and Expense processing development of behaviour management plans. St. Hilda’s Services is seeking to appoint a Psychologist who will be responsible for the following:commencing in January 2022. The successful candidate will • Management of the behaviour support service, including day-to-day management • IBB. Bank account and statement reconciliation provide a range of supports to jobseekers and employers, of the staff team together with provision of professionalapplies and clinical supervision. Garda Vetting to this post. • Assist with preparation of management and financial accounts • and Provision of psychological assessment, intervention to service users as appropriate. This includes supports to our • Develop implement training initiatives for parents/staff in response to including:• Assist in preparation of revenue budgets service users intellectual disabilities presenting with of needs including Autism,post. mental health identified need. A with full driving licence isa diversity essential to this • Initial Assessment • Monthly accounts and reconciliations • Provide assessments relating to the adaptive functioning difficulties, behaviours that are functioning, described asintellectual challenging, personal and family relationships issues, dementia and • All duties associated with recording minutes at • Guidance, planning and arrangements preparationfor forand Employment and emotional wellbeing of servicewith users. problems associated aging, issues in relation to the development of individualised service arrangements. Please apply in writing enclosing Curriculum Vitae to: Board meetings. • Develop interventions drawing uponof concepts and and techniques withinin the development • Job Sourcing • therapeutic Engage in functional assessments behaviour collaborate of behaviour management • Ensure confidential records are kept in safe and secure manner. various therapeutic frameworks. plans. • On-the-Job Support and Coaching Programme Coordinator • Work with service users familiessupport to implement theincluding therapeutic • Any other duties from • our Management ofand thetheir behaviour service, day-to-day management of the staff teamassigned together withtime to time. • Advice and Support to Employers interventions. provision of professional and clinical supervision. EmployAbility Roscommon QUALIFICATIONS • Manage confidential data and client information. • Follow-up Support and Mentoring to both Employers and • Develop and implement training initiatives for identified need. AND EXPERIENCE • Attend and participate in regular team and other meetings. parents/staff in response toEach candidate should have the following qualifications and experience: Employees Providewith assessments relating the adaptive functioning, intellectual functioning and emotional of service Roscommon West Park, 1st wellbeing Floor, • Engage• effectively outside agencies andtoadvocate for the serviceBusiness users • Have at least three yearsaof39 experience in a similar role. The candidate will work hour week. users. attending the service. • Have excellent knowledge of computerised payroll and accounting Tower Block A, • Develop therapeutic interventions drawing upon concepts and techniques A within various therapeutic frameworks. of placing qualification and /or experience people in packages • candidate Work with our service users and their families to implement the therapeuticEmployment interventions. are desirable but not essential as some training will The ideal will: Golf Links Road, Roscommon. • Possess satisfactory and experience of office organisation Have a• University Degree or Diploma 8 information. equivalent) obtained with 1st or Manage confidential data(QQ1 and level client be provided. This post knowledge requires high professional standards andand 2nd class honours in which Psychology was taken as a major subject and honours • Attend and participate in regular team and other meetings. of managing own workload. in particular the ability to communicate well with service users obtained that subject. • inEngage effectively with outside agencies and advocate for the service users attending service. • Have the strong IT skills particularly in Word, Outlook, Excel F42TD98 and employers. And have an Irish post-graduate professional psychology qualification accredited • Be able to work efficiently to deadlines. Garda Vetting applies to thisand post. by the Psychological Society of Ireland in Clinical, or Counselling Psychology or • Possess excellent communication be able to communicate The candidate will: Or inby Email to: or-equivalent info@rosemp.ie A full driving licence is essential toskills thisand post. an ideal equivalent qualification Educational or Psychology from sensitively and work as part of a team as well as on his/her own initiative. another jurisdiction validated by the Department of Health. Please• Aapply in writing enclosing Curriculum Vitae to: full clean driving licence is required Informal enquiries 0906628608 Demonstrate in working adults with level intellectual disabilities Ø Have competence a university degree or with diploma (QQ1 8 equivalent) obtained with 1st or 2nd classCoordinator honours in which Programme • Garda Vetting applies to this Position - either Psychology at least 60 days or equivalent supervised clinical placements as part ofin that subject. was taken as a major subject and honours obtained EmployAbility Roscommon the professional qualification; or at least 60 days ormay equivalentbe post-qualification shortlisted on the basis ofofPark, information Ø And have anCandidates Irish post-graduate professional psychology qualification accredited by the Psychological Society Roscommon West Business 1st Floor, Vitae to: supervised work experience as a psychologist. Please apply by Email, enclosing Curriculum Ireland in Clinical, or Counselling Psychology or an equivalent qualification in Educational or Psychology or equivalent Must be eligible to work in Ireland Tower Block A, Programme Coordinator anothersupplied. jurisdiction validated by the Department of Health. Excellentfrom communication skills – oral and written Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Demonstrate competence in working with adults with intellectual disabilities - either at least 60 days or equivalent Roscommon EmployAbility FullØClean Licence – access to own vehicle Closing date for receipt ofor applications is on F42TD98 supervised clinical placements as part of the professional qualification; at least 60 days or equivalent post-5pm Email: info@rosemp.ie qualification supervised work experience as a psychologist. Or by Email to: - Informal info@rosemp.ie enquiries 087 3745307 Application form and Garda Vettingof FormNovember NVB1 may Friday 26th 2021. Ø Must be eligible to work in Ireland Informal enquiries Candidates may 0906628608 be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied. be downloaded here Ø Excellent communication skills – oral and written Closing date formay receipt applicationson is 1pm on Friday 25th of February 2022. Candidates be of shortlisted the basis of information http://www.sthildas.ie/recruitment/ A panel be formed as a result of this interview process. Ø Full Clean Licence – access tomay own vehicle A panel may be formed as a result of this interview process. supplied. Alternatively you may request them by calling 090 6475825 EmployAbility Roscommon is an Equal Opportunities Employer Closing date forOpportunities receipt of applications isEmployer 5pm on EmployAbility Roscommon is an Equal EmployAbility - Promoting Friday 26th of November 2021. Inclusive Employment Please forward yourApplication completed Application Form, form and Garda Vetting Form NVB1 may be downloaded here EmployAbility Roscommon Covering Letter and Formhttp://www.sthildas.ie/recruitment/ NVB1 A panel may be formed as a result Service of this interview CLG. process. County Roscommon Supported Employment Roscommon West Business Park (marking envelope “Ref. 22/01”), Alternatively you may request them by calling 090 6475825 EmployAbility Roscommon is an Equal Opportunities Employer 1st Floor, Tower Block A, by the 28/02/2022 in to: Ireland No.360833 CHV19160 Registered Links Road, Roscommon County RoscommonGolf Supported Employment Service CLG. Please forward your completed Application Form, Covering Letter and Form NVB1 l
l
l
l l l
H.R. Manager, St. Hilda’s Services, Central Offices, Grace Park Road, (marking envelope “Ref. 22/01”), by the 28/02/2022 Registered in Ireland No.360833 CHV19160 Athlone, Co. Westmeath. to:-H.R. Manager, St. Hilda’s Services, Central Offices, Grace Park Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.
St. Hilda’s Services is an equal opportunities Employer. Short-listing based on the St. Hilda’sinformation Services is anprovided equal opportunities may apply Employer. Short-listing based on the information provided may apply
St. Hilda’s is an equal opportunities employer. Short-listing may apply.
40
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
Appointments �
ROSCARA HOUSING
ASSOCIATION
Housing Officer (Rart-time) Part-time (10 hours per week)
Employment opportunity with RosFM
The role which is supported by the BAI, involves engaging with local community groups and other organisations with a view to providing content for our weekly programmes. RosFM is an equal opportunities employer. Apply to:
The Manager RosFM, Athlone Road, Roscommon or email
manager@rosfm.ie
Closing date: Wednesday, 23rd February at 5pm Funded by BAI (Broadcasting Authority of Ireland) as part of the Sound and Vision Programme
Looking for long-term work in Sweden?
ICDS Constructors urgently require the following to fill current vacancies: l Shuttering Carpenters l Steelfixers l Concrete workers Flights and accommodation provided. Contact Pat O’Malley on
086 669 6764 / 091 564 008 or Email your CV to: pj@icds.ie
Reporting to the Board, the Housing Officer is responsible for the day to-day management of the Association. In addition, she/he will ensure adherence to the governance policies; contribute to the future strategy and development of the housing association; and oversee effective control and supervision of operational matters.
LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?
Key resP-onsibilities include: Property Lettings/Allocations; Rent Management; Project Management; Repairs; Project Development; Tenant Participation and Governance. Candidates will be shortlisted on the basis of illustrating the following criteria:
Education/Qualifications: • A Professional qualification relevant to the post, a driving licence and use of car.
Candidates will have skills/knowledge of:
• the social housing sector; • voids, rent, repairs & maintenance; • Knowledge of the Charities Regulator and the Voluntary Regulation Code for approved Housing Bodies • Excellent organisational skills with the ability to be flexible and work on own initiative.
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!
Candidates will have exP-erience of:
• Dealing with statutory and voluntary agencies; • submitting tenders; • working with Management Companies & Agents; • managing budgets and the ability to resolve difficult situations; • Knowledge of the Disability sector would be an advantage.
If you believe that you have the necessary qualifications, skills and experience for the role, then please email CV and a covering letter outlining why you should be considered for the post to Careers@boydhr.ie. Closing date for receipt of applications will be Friday, February 25th, 2022.
The local paper! TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633
A competitive salary will be offered to attract and retain the most suitable candidate.
HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town
Experienced Chef/Cook Required 2/3 days a week, Roscommon Town Good conditions, would suit mature person who is experienced and dependable
Call John on 086 8538519 PART-TIME TEMPORARY CONTRACT FOR
General Operative In Kilbride Community Centre and Shop - immediate start. For further details contact Ita Kelly
086 1636578
or email: itakellykilbride@gmail.com
THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!
EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time
PART TIME STAFF Required for ladies boutique in Roscommon Town. Please send your CV and cover letter to: PO Box No 3008 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon
SITUATIONS VACANT CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to mind 8 month old baby from May onwards in Fuerty/Castlecoote/Creggs/Roscommon Town area in childminders own home, Monday to Friday. Must have good english and own transport. Please apply to: PO Box No 3012 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: 4 days per week. General Lecarrow/Knockcroghery/Kiltoom area. Contact: 086 8952283 < RELIABLE CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to mind 3 children - 11, 8 and 5 years old, both parents are shift workers so must be very flexible. Early mornings, long and short days. Must be able to drop off and pick up children from school. Must be able to mind in children’s own home and childminder’s home sometimes. Genuine applicants only. Call Pamela 086-8212851. < STOCK PERSON REQUIRED at Laragan Farm/Milling. The suitable person will work with care and management of pigs and all that entails. They will also be involved with the milling operation. Experience not required but would be an advantage. Salary €35,000 plus increments depending on experience. Apply to 086- 8524894/086-3751072
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
SportsPeople
SICK AS A PARROT/OVER THE MOON ROSCOMMON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS
Ballinasloe set for Pike test in FAI Junior Cup Following on from their penalty shootout heroics against Mayo champions Ballyheane in the fifth round of the FAI Centenary Cup, Ballinasloe Town have been handed a tough last sixteen draw away to Limerick side Pike Rovers on March 6th. The Town took the lead as early as the first minute last Sunday in Ballinasloe thanks to a Garry Egan penalty but couldn’t make their first-half dominance count and Nathan Reilly Doyle equalised for the visitors on 38 minutes. Neither side was able to break the deadlock in normal or extra-time and the match went to penalties where Des Hope converted the decisive spot-kick to send Ballinasloe through to a last sixteen showdown in Limerick. Elsewhere, Boyle Celtic made the long journey to Waterford last
Creggs RFC Report
weekend where they faced one of the favourites for this year’s competition in the form of Villa FC. An upset looked to be on the cards following Shane Battles’ early opener but the hosts recovered and took control of the tie with two goals after Brian McCrann had gone off injured. Boyle had their chances, however, and saw two efforts come back off the woodwork before the impressive Finbar Cregg blazed over from the penalty spot in the closing stages. A good performance on the road from the Roscommon side but the hosts were the deserved winners. *Roscommon & District Football League was shocked and saddened to hear of the death of former Kilkerrin United player, Francis Heverin, who passed away recently following a short illness. Everyone
involved with the league extends deepest sympathies to Francis’ wife, children, his extended family and many friends. May he rest in peace.
Volunteers wanted!
Due to the growth of Roscommon Youth Soccer Club and a shortage of volunteers this year, the club urgently requires assistance from parents in order to operate successfully this season. Volunteers are now required to assist the club in various ways throughout the season ahead. The club says it cannot continue to proceed with registration until support is received. Please contact 087-7665993 if interested. Your community and club will thank you!
Soccer results FAI Centenary Jun Ballinasloe Town 1 ior Cup Fifth Round Ba (Ballinasloe Town llyheane AFC 1 AET. won 8-7 on Villa FC 3 Boyle Ce penalties) ltic 1 Norio’s Premier Ballymoe FC 2 Kilk Division err in United 2 Castlerea Celtic 0 St. Ballaghaderreen FC John’s Athletic 2 1 Moylough ’79 2 Cloonfad United 0 Moore United 2 RDFL Division Skyvalley Rovers 3 One Dunmore Town 1 Glen Celtic 1 Shiven Rover CP Ajax v Ballinag are Manor United, s 2 postponed. Dysart FC v Rosco mmon United, po stponed. RDFL Division Tw o Moore United B 1 St. Cuan’s Ahascrag h United 0 Boyle Celtic B 7 Ro scommon United B Dunmore Town B 3 Cloonfad United 1 B2 St. John’s Athlet Skyvalley Rovers B ic B 2 Cam Celtic 2 2 Ballag Ballymoe FC B 2 Ra haderreen FC B 0 hara Rovers 1
Soccer fixtures
Friday, February th Norio’s Premier Div 18 ision Boyle Celtic v Ballym (8 pm) oe FC Kilkerrin United v Moylough ‘79 Saturday, February th 19 Joe’s Bar RDFL Ch allenge Cup (7.30 pm) Ballymoe FC B v Ba llaghaderreen FC B Moore United B v Gle n Ce ltic At Lecarrow: Raha ra Rovers v Dunm ore Town Norio’s Premier Div ision (7.30 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Ballinasloe Town Sunday, February th 20 Joe’s Bar RDFL Ch allenge Cup (2 pm ) Cloonfad United B v Boyle Celtic B Cam Celtic v Dunm ore Town B CP Ajax v Ballinag are Manor United St. Cuan’s Ahascrag h United v Shiven Rovers Roscommon Unite d v Dysart FC St. John’s Athletic B v Skyvalley Rover sB Norio’s Premier Div ision (11 am) St. John’s Athletic v Moore United Cloonfad United v Ballaghaderreen FC
THE GAIN LINE
U-18.5s advance in Connacht Cup Creggs RFC Under-18.5s advanced from the first round of the Connacht Cup last Sunday with a convincing 31-5 win over a Dunmore/Tuam combination. Creggs started brightly with three unanswered tries in the first half through Darren Gately, Senan Lambe, and Lee Kilcoyne all of which were converted by Darren Gately. The second half proved a more difficult affair but Creggs once again breached the Dunmore/Tuam defence with Ben Johnson getting over from close range. Lee
Kilcoyne completed the scoring with the last play of the game, a 30-metre drop goal which raised the loudest cheer of the day. U-16 Girls Connacht Cup: Castlebar were the visitors to Creggs last Sunday as the home side came out on top to progress in the Connacht Cup. Creggs ran in a number of tries but Castlebar never gave up and responded with a try of their own to reduce arrears towards the end of the game. The Creggs girls face what promises
The Creggs U-18.5s who recently beat an combined Dunmore/Tuam team.
to be a much tougher encounter against Ballinasloe RFC in the quarter-finals in a couple of weeks’ time.
Youth/School fixtures
Connacht Schools Senior Girls semifinal: Convent of Mercy, Roscommon v MSM, Claremorris on Friday at 12.30 pm in Creggs; Connacht Boys U-13 Cup: Creggs RFC v Ballinasloe RFC this Saturday at 12 pm in Creggs; Connacht U-14 Girls Cup: Loughrea RFC
v Creggs RFC on Saturday at 1 pm in Loughrea; U-15 Boys friendly: Creggs RFC v Gort RFC on Saturday at 2 pm in Creggs; Connacht U-14 Boys Cup: Creggs RFC v Galway Bay RFC on Sunday at 12 pm in Creggs.
Mini Rugby
Creggs Mini Rugby teams (all age groups) will play away in Claremorris this Saturday morning in a blitz against Claremorris Colts RFC at 10 am. New players (U-7s to U-12s) always welcome.
Handball
Creaton into Connacht final
Lisacul’s Denis Creaton overcame his long-time rival, Ciaran Bourke from Newport, in their 40x20 Junior Singles Connacht semi-final last Saturday. Played in Bourke’s home court, this turned out to be a ding-dong battle. Denis used his all-round game to take the first 21-17 before Ciaran really turned on the style in the second, repeatedly killing the ball and punishing every little error from the west Roscommon man. There was little Denis could do as he went down 12-21. Under the new rules, the tiebreaker is up to 11 and Denis got the bit between his teeth once again and ground out a very close 11-8 victory to set up a Connacht final against Galway’s former underage star, Peter Donoghue, next weekend. St. Coman’s Dylan Hanley had a busy few days when he played the delayed 40x20 Junior ‘B’ county final on Tuesday and the Connacht semi-final on Sunday. Dylan faced clubmate Colm Walshe in the county final and their contrasting styles meshed perfectly to produce a superb encounter. Dylan’s picking and mobility finally overcame Colm’s pinpoint killing by 2113, 16-21, 11-3. Dylan then travelled to Bofield, Co. Mayo to face Eoin Fox. Fox showed fantastic determination and guts to push the St. Coman’s player to the limit in the first before Dylan pinched it 21-20, coming from 15-20 down. The classier Hanley really turned the screw in the second and won 21-4 to set up a Connacht final against Galway’s Darragh Mulkerrins, brother of senior champion Martin. St. Coman’s’ Rory Carthy had a comfortable victory over Leitrim’s late entry Ciaran McMorrow in the 40x20 Minor Singles Connacht semi-final played in St. Coman’s last Saturday. Rory has been working hard at his game and looked very impressive winning 21-7, 21-0. Next up is a potential Connacht final cracker against Sligo star Cormac Finn. St. Coman’s’ Glenn Walsh was narrowly beaten in his 40x20 Masters ‘B’ Connacht semi-final against Mayo’s Paul Judge. Glenn took some time to get to grips with his very mobile opponent and Judge impressively took the first 21-9. Glen started killing the ball in the second and turned the tables winning 2110. The tie-breaker could have gone either way but the Mayo man just pipped Glenn 11-7. This Sunday sees St. Coman’s host the 40x20 Juvenile Connacht finals. Roscommon have four finalists: Seamie Carthy in the Boys’ U-13 singles, his brother Eoghan in the U-16 singles, Lisacul’s Shauna Corrigan in the Girls’ U-16 singles and Kilglass Gaels’ Alanna Coggeran in the U-17 singles.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
SportsPeople
Horses for Courses Racing in Ireland today is at Powerstown Park in Clonmel featuring the Grade 3 Mercedes-Benz Novice Chase, starting at 1.20 pm. Weekend racing starts tomorrow on the all-weather at Dundalk away at 3.50 pm. On Saturday, the racing action is Red Mills Trial Day at Gowran Park, first race at 1.45 pm, and featuring the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase and the Grade 3 Red Mills Trial Hurdle. On Sunday, still in Co Kildare, racing is at Proudstown Park outside Navan, featuring two Grade 2 races, the Boyne Hurdle and Ten Up Novice Chase, first race at 1.45 pm. There is cross channel racing on TV on Saturday. ITV features four races from Ascot, including the Grade 1 Ascot Chase and the Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novice Chase, two from Haydock, the Grade 2 Rendlesham Hurdle, and the Grade 3 Grand National Trial Chase and one from Wincanton including the Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle. In the Red Mills Hurdle, the slight odds-on favourite is Gordon Elliott’s Teahupoo with Henry de Bromhead’s Quixilios and Joseph O’Brien’s Darasso around 3/1, 9/1 the field bar three. The chase field of ten runners is headed in the betting by three Mullins runners Melon 7/4, Blackbow 9/4, and Royal Rendezvous 3/1 going 6/1 bar. Cross channel, Joseph O’Brien’s Fakir D’oudaries, the only Irish raider, is 5/2 favourite for the Ascot Chase ahead of three home trained at 100/30, while this appears an open race O’Brien’s decision to run here before the Festival must be respected.
Review of the Week Last Saturday, Willie Mullins had a treble when Mark Walsh rode Goven and Ellimay to victory for JP McManus and son Patrick won the hunter chase on Billaway. Walsh also had a treble riding Brazil for Padraig Roche in the opener.
Down the road in Punchestown on Sunday, Walsh had another treble winning the opening two races on Midnight Maestro for Enda Bolger and Ciel De Neige for Mullins, completing it on Slip Of The Tongue for Padraig Roche, all three in the green and gold hoops of McManus. Patrick Mullins won the bumper on James’s Gate giving Willie a double.
Racing News Tiger Roll is entered in the Boyne Hurdle are Navan on Sunday, a race he won back in 2019, and used as a prep race for Cheltenham in 2020. The weights were released for the Grand National this week and Michael O’Leary states that Tiger Roll will not run. He has been allotted 11st 4lbs and could be asked to carry more if and when the top two, Conflated and Galvin set to carry 11st 10lbs, are scratched. Only three horses have carried 11st+ to victory in the last ten years. Martin Brassil has entered Longhouse Poet in the Grand National, and he knows exactly what is needed to win racing’s greatest race, having won it in 2006 with Numbersixvalverde. The 8-Y-O gelding, owned by Sean Mulryan, has been given 10st 12lb. Both horses won the Thyestes in Gowran Park. The BHA has, eventually, placed a temporary suspension on the licence of trainer Sir Mark Todd, who was caught on video two years ago striking a live horse with what appeared to be a branch of a tree. He cannot saddle runners in Britain or internationally while investigations continue. This is the same body that suspended Irish trainer Gordon Elliott, who was caught sitting on a dead horse, immediately.
2022 Cheltenham Festival Enda Bolger is trying to get a run into JP McManus’s new
by Tom Red
French acquisition Prengarde belt before the Glenfarclas Chase at the Festival. The horse already has already won five cross-country chases in France for trainer Lageneste Macaire. The 6-Y-O has won four at Compiegne, north of Paris, and the other at Fontainebleau, his last being over 3m 3f in November at Compiegne. John McConnell is planning a twin assault on the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, with his recent Musselborough winner Bardenstown Lad and his Doncaster January winner Mahler Mission. Henry de Bromhead’s unbeaten Journey With Me is on course for the Festival. He won the Red Mills EBF Auction Novice Hurdle at Naas on Sunday adding to his maiden win and a bumper last year and a point to point in 2020.
Point-to-Point Corner No racing scheduled on the northern circuit on Saturday but there is one meeting in the south due to the rescheduling of last Sunday’s meeting at Oldtown in North Dublin with 131 entries and a 1 pm off. A scheduled meeting for Punchestown has been cancelled. There are three meetings down for decision in the south on Sunday. At Kildorrey near Fermoy in Cork with 114 entries, at Nenagh in Tipperary, with 111 entries, and at Ballycrystal in Co. Wexford with 87 entries. Nenagh and Kildorrey start at 1 pm with Ballycrystal an hour later at 2 pm. Liz Lalor, one of the country’s leading female riders, broke Helen Bryce-Smith all-time record of 109 winners, which has stood for over 50 years, at Comea on Sunday afternoon winning the 5-Y-O geldings maiden on Read To Return, trained by her partner Tom Keating, for her 110th winner. Helen Bryce-Smith is the wife of trainer Des McDonagh and mother of jockey Declan.
Athlone Ann Finnegan was the winner of last Thursday’s 97 Club with 21 points. Maura Ó Faolain was runner-up with 19. Two important dates: the Ladies’ White Elephant competition will be held on Tuesday next (22nd) followed by a presentation of prizes at 5.30 pm. The Ladies’ Winter League Final will be held on Saturday, March 5th and the final date for qualifying is this Saturday. Meanwhile, E. Moloney won the AWGS on Thursday
Roscommon Shield Winners 2020: The Hollywood Bar (Left to right): Ciaran Hickey, Conor King, Robbie Dolan, Stephen Victory, Martin Fleming, Martin King, and David Boyle. Missing from photo: Pat Egan and Gerry Murphy.
Darts
Hollywood stars seal shield success! Last Friday night saw The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon town take on The Cosy Bar, Castlerea in the first of two 2020 Roscommon Darts League finals to be played at Hannon’s Hotel. The league matches between these teams back, which actually took place back in 2019 and 2020, saw Cosy Bar emerge victorious on both occasions. However, The Hollywood gained the ultimate revenge on Friday when they emerged 5-2 winners following an entertaining, high-quality match. Doubles results: Wayne Harries/Vinny Hannelly 1
ficult time for everyone. Thanks also to all those who helped in any way on the night and particularly to long-standing sponsors Hannon’s Hotel for the use of their premises and facilities. This Friday evening sees the Cup Final taking place at Hannon’s from 9 pm. Competing in what should be a cracker are Flanagan’s of Castleplunkett and McDermott’s of Ballinaheglish, two of Roscommon’s top teams over the past number of years. All are welcome. For more, join the Roscommon Darts Facebook page or check out rosdarts. com.
last with 28 points. Other results: Class 1: E. Kelly (25); Class 2: N. Dowling (27): Class 3: F. Sheeran (25); Class 4: V. Connaire (17). The Winter League Final was won by the Paul Huntercaptained Team 15 as they emerged one-point winners over Adrian Kelly’s Team 18 recently. Leo Flynn and Team 9 finished in third place. The best individual score on the day came from Derek Martin with 47 points while Mark Butler was nearest the pin on the second hole and Cathal Donnelly was nearest on the 17th.
sored Spring League, Deirdre McGettrick (Ladies) with 19 points and Enda McDermott (Gents) with 22 points. The results from last week: Team 1 (Phil McWeeney) 96 points; Team 2 (Damien Duignan) 95 points; Team 3 (Oliver Curran) 86 points; Team 4 (Gary Vesey) 87 points; Team 5 (Kathleen Loftus) 95 points; Team 6 (Siobhan Talbot) 91 points; Team 7 (David McDermott) 84 points; Team 8 (Mary King) 96 points; Team 9 (Darren Conlon) 87 points; Team 10 (Chris Lowe) 92 points; Team 11 (Carmel Stritch) 91 points.
Congratulations to weekly winners in the Flynn’s spon-
The Club Drive In is scheduled to take place this Sunday (20th) at 2 pm and will be followed by a three-person 9-hole scramble for members. Last Thursday’s Men’s Senior competition was won by K. Glynn with 32 points. Other results: Cat 1: D. Browne (32); Cat 2: J. Kilroy (29); Cat 3: J. Grogan (27); Over 80: Fr. J. Fitzgerald (27). Deuce: S. McGahon. Geraldine Relihan, meanwhile, won the Ladies’ 9-hole competition on February 7th with 18 points.
Carrick
Short putts (News from local golf clubs)
Martin Fleming/Stephen Victory 2; Matty Connelly/Nigel Revins 2 Conor King/Martin King 0; Jason Owens/Kevin Kearney 2 Ciaran Hickey/Robbie Dolan 1. Singles results: Sean Finan 1 Martin Fleming 3; Nigel Revins 1 Ciaran Hickey 3; Wayne Harries 0 Robbie Dolan 3; Matty Connelly 2 Stephen Victory 3. Roscommon Darts would like to thank both teams and all those who attended last Friday for what proved to be a great night of darts. More importantly, it was wonderful to see players and friends mixing together after what has been a dif-
Roscommon
Golf scholarships
Pictured are the winners of the Athlone Golf Winter League 2022 (Left to right): Paul Gilligan, Paul Hunter, Thomas O’Connor (Captain, Athlone GC), Derek Martin, and Tom Dolan Jnr. Missing from photo: Tom Dolan Snr.
Congratulations to Roscommon CBS students, Thomas Higgins and Cian O’Connor, who have been awarded golf scholarships to two major universities in the United States. Thomas will attend Clemson University in South Carolina while Cian is heading off to the University of Memphis. Both students are part of a talented cohort of golfers at Roscommon Golf Club which has won All-Ireland schools titles with Roscommon CBS as well as a number of other high-profile competitions with their club. We wish both lads every success in the US!
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Connacht SFC Semi-Final: Galway 2-11 Roscommon 0-12 SportsPeople
Ladies lose out in Newry thriller Lidl Ladies NFL Division Three Down 4-10 Roscommon 4-9 Roscommon’s long trip to Newry last Sunday wasn’t a fruitful one as they went down by a single point in a match the outcome of which was in doubt right up to the final kick. However, it must be said that both sides were guilty of conceding soft goals throughout and in that regard Roscommon were playing ‘catch up’ for most of the match.
Roscommon LGFA Treasurer Micheal McHugh made a presentation to Laura Fleming, who was appearing in her 100th game for Roscommon in Down last Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
<< Weekend Rewind
Ballaghaderreen GAA information meeting Ballaghaderreen GAA Club is holding an information meeting this Saturday (February 19th) from 11 am to 12 pm in the clubhouse. Members will be available to discuss membership, help with the Foireann online system and offer information on the club. Please feel free to come along. New members always welcome. Register your 2022 membership for Ballaghaderreen GAA Club online on the GAA Foireann system at https://returntoplay.gaa. ie. Don’t forget all playing members must be registered prior to attending any training for insurance purposes. Further information available at: https://www. ballaghaderreengaaclub. com/membership.html.
Down dominated possession in the first half but found themselves 2-0 to 0-1 down after seven minutes after Laura Fleming - making her 100th appearance for Roscommon - and Lisa O’Rourke got in for goals for the visitors. Yet, incredibly, it was 2-3 to 2-0 after only 14 minutes after goals for the home side from Sarah Doherty and Orla Swail. Down went further ahead in the 20th minute when Jessica Foy converted a penalty, but with Aisling Hanly scoring two fine points and Niamh Shanagher fisting home a goal in the 30th minute, there was just two points between the team at half-time: Down 3-5 Roscommon 3-3. Roscommon played their best football in the third quarter and four points without reply saw them ahead by 3-8 to 3-6 by the 48th minute. Then Jessica Foy scored an opportunist 50th minute goal for the home side, and two further points saw Down up by four with seven minutes to go. Then Roscommon sub Jenny Higgins scored the goal of the game to bring Roscommon back into it, now just a point in arrears. Unfortunately Ollie Lennon’s side just couldn’t secure an equaliser and Down held on for the narrowest of wins. Roscommon: Helena Cummins: Aine McGrath, Rachel Brady, Megan Kelly; Roisin Wynne, Rachel Fitzmaurice, Saoirse Timon; Kate Nolan (0-1), Lisa O’Rourke (1-2); Laura Fleming (1-2, 2 frees), Fiona Tully, Caroline Conway; Aisling Hanly (0-3), Niamh Shanagher (10), Niamh Feeney. Subs: Aisling McAulliffe for Timon (22), Sinead Kenny for McGrath (h/t), Abbey Curran for Conway (42), Jenny Higgins (1-1) for Tully (52), Michaela McHugh for Nolan (57).
The
Laura Fleming and Megan Doherty of Down pictured in action during the Lidl Ladies NFL Division Three Clash at Pairc Esler, Co. Down on Sunday last. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
GAA Studio COMPILED BY PAUL HEALY
Daithi on Hand to guide Athleague hurling Kepak continues sponsorship
Athleague Hurling Club has this week confirmed that the Kepak Group will continue as the club’s main sponsor for 2022. Club chairperson Kevin McGeeney said: “Kepak Group has supported our club now for many years. On behalf of Athleague Hurling Club, I would like to thank Kepak Athleague Group Manager, Darragh McHugh, Purchasing Manager Lorna Kennedy, David Mannion, and Ronan Hynes and staff for their continued financial and moral support. “The club has also announced Daithi Hand as the new senior hurling manager for 2022. Daithi brings a lot of experience to the role. His management team includes Peter Galvin and Gary Gilgan and Mattie Ward. We wish them every success in the coming season. “We would also like to thank outgoing manager Padraig Mannion for his services to the club over the past two years, including a very successful 2021.
Pictured is Kevin McGeeney (Athleague Chairperson), Ronan Hynes (Site Operations Manager, Kepak), Mattie Ward (Athleague selector), and Lorna Kennedy (Site Purchasing Manager, Athleague) with the two cups won by the club this year, the Roscommon Junior and Senior club championships.
“The club is also delighted to have been allocated a substantial grant in the Sports Capital Grant. Thank you to our public
representatives who worked so diligently on behalf of local sports clubs in their applications”.
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Weekend Fast-forward
Pádraig Pearses set for 33rd Comórtas Peile Páidí Ó Sé Festival Roscommon and Connacht champions, Pádraig Pearses, will line out in the men’s senior competition as part of the Lidl Comórtas Peile Páidí Ó Sé 2022 taking place all across the Dingle Peninsula from the 25th to the 27th of February. The six-team competition sees them up against Kerry’s Listry, Mayo’s Castlebar Mitchels, Galbally GAA and St. Kieran’s GAA from Limerick and Carbery Rangers of Cork. 14 counties across the four provinces will take part in the 33rd edition of the Lidl Comórtas Peile Páidí Ó Sé, with 20 adult men’s and ladies club teams at senior and junior level coming for a weekend of competitive football and social events at Páidí Ó Sé’s pub in Ventry, West Kerry. Some familiar faces will be lining out over the weekend including The Coronas’ frontman Danny O’Reilly (with Dublin’s Templeogue Synge Street) as well as TV sports broadcaster Aisling O’Reilly with County Meath’s Ratoath LGFA.
Roscommon Gaels would like to thank Conor Cassidy from Cassidy Cars, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon who is pictured presenting the successful Roscommon Gaels minor football team and management of 2021 with new half-zip hoodies in recognition of the team’s great county final win back in November against Boyle. Pictured are Ethan and Finbar O’Reilly, Conor Cassidy (Cassidy Cars), Kevin McStay, Ciaran O’Reilly and Seamus Carthy.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Connacht J1A League Final: Creggs v Connemara at the Sportsground on Sunday at 3.15 pm
‘We believe
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Brian Diffley is a young man who takes things in his stride, including the honour of being captain of the flourishing Creggs team. With the team trailing 0-17 in last Sunday’s Connacht (J1A) semi-final, Brian didn’t panic. “It must have been very nerve-racking for the supporters” he reflected this week, paying trib-
ute to opponents Westport (“They’re a big side, they used the wind advantage well, we made mistakes and they capitalised”). On the field, the players remained calm. “I wasn’t worried at 0-17 down. We regrouped well, we held it together. Somehow when you’re out there playing, you don’t panic. I think it’s because we’re in the middle of it (the battle)… and of course we believe in ourselves”. Belief in themselves served the players well. They remained composed, trusting in their own game, believing they could spin the trajectory of the contest.
20-5 behind by half-time, Creggs – wind-assisted in the second half – began to rein Westport in. Bit by bit, fueled by belief. Then, with a few minutes remaining, James Brandon’s try had the big home support in ecstasy. When Shane Purcell nervelessly added the conversion, suddenly it was 27-25 to the home side, the clock now ticking in their favour. A magnificent comeback. But there was to be another twist. Brian Diffley admits that when Westport were awarded a last-gasp penalty, his heart sank just a little. Continued on page 45 –>
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“It’s my second year as club captain, and yes, I enjoy it, but really there are loads of leaders in the team”. Brian Diffley pictured leading by example earlier in the campaign. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
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Connacht J1A League Final: Creggs v Connemara at the Sportsground on Sunday at 3.15 pm
in ourselves’
continued from page 44 –> But the visitors turned down the kick at goal, opting for touch. “They could have gone for the posts. It was a fair distance out, but I thought he might have made it” the Creggs captain said this week, the relief still evident in his voice. Brian Diffley comes from a keen sporting family. Native of Oran, he is a son of Anne and the late PJ Diffley. Also a keen Gaelic footballer and hurler with Oran over the years, he’s been playing rugby with Creggs for most of his life, having joined up at U-8 level. Now 23, Brian is in his second year as club captain. A key player (No. 8), he’s following in the footsteps of his brothers Austin, Joseph and Michael, all of whom have worn the Creggs jersey and toiled at The Green. From chatting with Brian, it’s very evident that he feels great pride at the tremendous role being played by the club in the community. Freed of successive lockdowns, Creggs RFC is bustling again – on and off the field. “The lockdowns were tough. We’re a closeknit group (the players)…we’ve all been together since we were kids. The social impact of Covid-19 was hard on us…you’d miss not meeting up with your friends. Also, we had been flying on the field before lockdown!” When ‘play resumed’ that impressive form was maintained. Creggs finished top of the league, and also won the Cawley Cup. While they lost 10-6 in the league to Connemara – their opponents in this Sunday’s final – they atoned with a one-point win over the Galway club en route to that Cawley Cup success. Creggs’ success on the field reflects the huge voluntary effort being put in by so many people, along with the obvious talent within the actual panel of players. The club continues to set remarkable standards with its development of facilities, while the youth set-up continues to prosper. Brian: “The club is thriving. I help out with the U-13s and my nephew is on the U-14 team. We were so close to fielding two U-14 teams this season, so yeah, the underage setup is great. The work being done by the same people year in year out is just tremendous. As for our facilities, you wouldn’t find the likes of them anywhere else in Connacht. The next phase will see a major new gym and four new large dressing rooms (two of them exclusively for women’s and girls rugby)”. He enjoys being captain, but is quick to give
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credit to his colleagues, and to the inspirational figures involved in coaching and other roles. “It’s my second year as club captain, and yes, I enjoy it, but really there are loads of leaders in the team. We do video analysis after every game…Pat Cunningham travels up from Galway, and Michael Harding from Offaly. It’s a team effort”. Also playing a massive role are the passionate supporters. Brian says they made a really significant difference last Sunday, urging the team back into contention when they faced that large deficit against Westport. “We had a big crowd behind us, and that was
a big help. We’ve had great support all year, and I’d say we’ll have great support again for the final this Sunday”. The final. This Sunday. Given those two close games between the teams this season, another nail-biter seems inevitable. “We go in as underdogs” Brian says. “Connemara are the current holders, and they’ll be well up for it. But we need to concentrate on our own game”. Concentrate on their own game, and keep believing. Always believe in themselves. As with the great Creggs teams of the past, believing in themselves has stood well to them. They are Creggs.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Connacht J1A League Final: Creggs v Connemara at the Sportsground on Sunday at 3.15 pm Best wishes to Creggs RFC from all at
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Fearless Creggs set for Connemara showdown < DAN DOONER
There will be no fear in the Creggs camp as they prepare to meet arch-rivals Connemara in Sunday’s Connacht J1A League Final at the Sportsground, according to Head Coach Pat Cunningham. Cunningham, who missed last Sunday’s semi-final comeback win over Westport due to Covid, believes his charges, who beat Connemara in the Cawley Cup semi-final earlier this year, will be more than ready for a wounded All Blacks’ challenge. “Beating Connemara in the Cawley Cup will have helped psychologically, but we are certainly under no illusions as to what awaits us on Sunday in Galway. Connemara will
have been building up to this and they’ll be looking to redeem themselves following that defeat,” he said. “We never had any fear of facing Connemara in the past but maybe there has been a lack of experience in a few of the games we’ve had against them. When you come up against a team at the level they’re at, it can take a while to rise to it. There’s no doubt though that the lads can play up to that level and we’ve shown that in the last few years where we were a little unlucky in some games”. While Cunningham was unable to attend last Sunday’s game, he was nonetheless satisfied with the belief his players displayed despite trailing 20-5 at the interval.
“There was a little bit of concern at halftime last Sunday but our lads always show real fight. Maybe it came down to being a bit complacent and it was one of those games when things seemed to be going against us and Westport were getting a few breaks,” he said. “The lads were told to keep believing in themselves and to keep the ball moving and that the chances would come. They never panicked and eventually came out with a really impressive win”. Sunday represents another step up for a team which has finished top of the Connacht J1A League while also claiming their third Cawley Cup in a row, but the Creggs head coach is relishing the challenge. continued page 47 –>
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In front of a huge and vocal home crowd, Creggs’ first team took on Westport RFC on the 4G pitch last Sunday afternoon in the Connacht Junior League J1 semi-final. Creggs were missing a couple of players with injury for this important game, but this also gave opportunities to others to prove themselves. Creggs played into a strong wind in the first half, and Westport were quick to take advantage of the elements with some very good play, scoring two converted tries and a penalty to lead 17-0 after the first quarter. Creggs settled, scoring a good try of their own. From a five-metre scrum, back-row forward Ronan Cahill powered over in the corner from close range. The unsuccessful conversion attempt was from a very difficult angle, against the wind. Another penalty on the Creggs’ 22 left West-
port with an easy three-pointer to give them a 20-5 half-time lead. Wind-assisted in the second half, Creggs changed tactics, now carrying the ball in hand. They were rewarded with a great try following a strong run by Kevin Gavin, who fended off a couple of defenders before scoring. Shane Purcell landed the conversion to make it 20-12. A third try was delivered a short time after. It came from scrum-half Mark Dowd, who picked from the ruck ten metres out and backed himself to get over the line. The conversion just clipped the upright. 20-17. Creggs pushed hard but Westport broke out and a missed tackle in midfield allowed them to get in for their third try. The conversion was missed, leaving Westport 25-17 ahead with 10 minutes left. It was backs to the wall for a period but the pressure eased when Shane Purcell’s penalty for Creggs left just five points between the teams. A fitter looking Creggs finished the stronger.
James Brandon broke free of a maul and with a great individual dash scored a try under the posts, Shane Purcell adding the conversion. Creggs had taken the lead for the first time in the match, at 27-25, with three minutes remaining. There was still more drama. A minute after the kick-off, Westport were awarded a penalty about 35 metres out. They decided it was too difficult (given the wind) to kick for goal, and instead kicked towards the Creggs five-metre line. Creggs disrupted their throw and cleared their lines. Creggs squad: Tom Fleming, Maurice Buckley, Sean Og Higgins, Tom Farrell, Brian Donoghue, Ronan Cahill, James Brandon, Brian Diffley, Aodha Hession, Shane Purcell, Ronan Dowd, Mark Purcell, Eoghan Coyle, Kevin Gavin, Shane Dowd, Matthew Curley, Ciaran Corcoran, Tom Callaghan, Mark Dowd, Mikey Dunne, Brian Cleary, Luke Divilly, Conor Rohan.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
Connacht J1A League Final: Creggs v Connemara at the Sportsground on Sunday at 3.15 pm Best of luck to Creggs RFC from all at
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Shane Purcell kicks the decisive score against Westport…a late conversion which put Creggs 27-25 in front. Photos: Bernie O’Farrell
from page 46 –> “We are really looking forward to the challenge of Connemara this Sunday. There are a few little injuries from the Westport game but everyone is pulling out all the stops to be fit and ready for this one, and I’m hopeful that we’ll have a full squad to choose from,” Cunningham concluded. There’s no doubt the powerful Connemara outfit have been a bogey team for Creggs in years past, but there is real belief around the east Galway village that an important psychological barrier was broken with that victory in the Cawley Cup. The question now is whether the All Blacks were caught cold, or has this Creggs team finally arrived at the summit of Connacht Junior rugby? For their part, the All Blacks have looked formidable in this season’s regular league campaign despite finishing runners-up to Creggs. The men from the west scored far more and conceded less than anyone in the division despite a 31-22 defeat to Castlebar in October, although much of their healthy points difference is owed to a facile win over Sligo Seconds earlier this month. There’s no doubt, however, that they remain the team to beat at this level in Connacht… though recently Creggs have proven they are Tom O’Brien leads the Creggs’ support last Sunday! Photo: Bernie O’Farrell more than capable of that.
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Roscommon People Friday 18 February 2022
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SportsPeople
INSIDE THIS WEEK: Creggs Rugby set for final showdown pages 44 to 47…
Big weekend for Athleague and Oran! It promises to be a big weekend for Athleague and Oran Camogie as both clubs face AllIreland semi-finals this Saturday. Athleague take on Ulster champions Eoghan Rua in Iniskeen, Co. Monaghan at 1 pm in the junior club championship. Oran are also in action against Ulster opposition at 1 pm when they face Kevin Barry’s from Tyrone in the Junior ‘B’ semi-final at Templeport, Co. Cavan.
O’Halloran happy with hurlers’ progress < SEAMUS DUKE
Roscommon senior hurling manager Francis O’Halloran was pleased with the level of performance as his charges overcame Louth on a scoreline of 2-21 to 0-14 at Dowdallshill on Sunday last and said it was now time to kick on in National Hurling League Division 3A. O’Halloran made a number of changes to the team that took the field for the previous week’s league opener which ended in a draw against Tyrone. “We are making progress, that’s for sure. We weren’t sure what to expect from Louth but our lads applied themselves well and worked hard for the win. We made a few changes and made a few positional switches as well and we will be doing that in the matches against Warwickshire and Armagh too. It’s all about looking at as many players as possible and building up a good panel,” the Roscommon manager told People Sport on Tuesday. While ther are no fixtures this weekend, the hurlers will be working hard off the field. “We don’t have a game this weekend but we will assess the Louth game and get ready for our next game on Sunday week. “All the lads will get a chance to show what they can do and we will be looking to get our strongest panel ready for the championship. But we are unbeaten in the league after two games and hopefully we can kick on from here,” O’Halloran concluded. With Cathal Dolan in superb form once again, Roscommon led by 0-13 to 0-7 by half-time last Sunday. Second-half goals from Mickey Joe Egan and Eoin Fitzgerald sealed what was a relatively easy win. The hurlers are now at home on Sunday week when they face Warwickshire. Roscommon team v Louth: Enda Lawless; Matthew Comerford, Tim Gilmore, Ronan Kilcline; Padraig Kelly (0-2), Conor Cosgrave, Hugh Rooney; Conor Coyle, Ben McGahon (0-2); Mickey Joe Egan (1-1), Eoghan Costello, Cathal Dolan (0-9, 6 frees); Brendan Mulry (0-2), Daniel Glynn (0-2), Eoin Fitzgerald (1-3). Subs: Liam Óg Murray for Costello (61), Jason Martin for McGahon (66), Jack Donnelly for Fitzgerald (70), Donal Kelly for Kilcline (72), Peter Kellehan for Coyle(72).
Full speed ahead: The Roscommon senior footballers will be hoping to maintain their winning start in NFL Division Two when they take on Clare at Dr. Hyde Park this Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack
Clare and present danger! FOOTBALLERS MUST AVOID COMPLACENCY THIS SUNDAY Allianz National Football League Division Two: Roscommon v Clare on Sunday in Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE
With two good wins behind them, and a number of high profile players returning to the squad, Roscommon will be hot favourites to make it three wins on the trot when they take on Clare on Sunday in Dr. Hyde Park. The biggest danger facing Roscommon is the risk of complacency. Coming home from Navan last Sunday week, all the talk on the national airwaves about Division Two was that promotion was ‘between Derry, Gal-
way and Roscommon’ – but the league table shows Clare on three points, and a win for the visitors on Sunday would see them leapfrog Roscommon in the standings. Clare manager Colm Collins, a very experienced ’bainisteoir’ now in his 9th year in charge of the Banner footballers, will be delighted to hear his side are being written off by the so-called experts. Make no mistake, they are very competent, and well capable of causing an upset if Roscommon are any way off-key. Cillian O’Dea, Cillian Brennan, Ciaran Russell, Cathal O’Connor, David Tubridy, Eoin Cleary and Keelan Sexton are top class operators capable of causing Roscommon plenty of problems. Sexton in particular has been outstanding up front. It has to be acknowledged that Roscommon are coming into this match with great momentum. Excellent wins against Cork and Meath were achieved with a huge work rate and some excellent attacking play. It will be interesting to see who Anthony Cunningham and his selectors bring back into the team. If fit, I presume that Niall Daly, Davy Murray and Diarmuid Murtagh will be in contention, although the players who fea-
tured in the opening games certainly deserve another chance. Still, having the Pearses and Faithleach’s players back is a huge bonus for the team and panel going forward. Brian Stack is doing really well at full-back and the defence has done well in general so far. However, to have Conor and Ronan Daly and Davy Murray back in contention for places will only strengthen that sector. Roscommon have had a problem at midfield for a few years but Eddie Nolan and Ultan Harney have played well there in the past two games. Having Niall Daly back in contention is a huge plus in that sector. Up front, it was good to see Conor Cox back to his best in Navan, while Enda and Donie Smith, Cian McKeon and Cathal Heneghan have been doing really well, and Niall Kilroy has been putting in his usual all-action displays around the field. Anything other than a Roscommon win would be a surprise, but if they show any complacency they could pay a heavy price. Two more points would put the team in a fantastic position. If the players can show the same intensity and appetite that we saw against Meath and Cork then that win is on the cards. Prediction: Roscommon.