19 March 2021 Roscommon People

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

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Family Home My husband and I are going through a difficult time at the moment. My biggest worry is that he will sell our home behind my back. He often threatens to do this and this would leave me homeless. He would simply live with his parents.

He is very clever and made sure that our home is in his name only. I am very worried. Can he sell our home without my knowledge?

No, your husband may not legally sell your home without your knowledge or consent. The family home of a married couple is protected by specific legislation, namely, the Family Home Protection Act, 1976. Similar protection is provided for the shared home of civil partners by the civil partnership legislation.

The Family Home Protection Act prevents one spouse or civil partner from selling, mortgaging, leasing or transferring the family home without the written consent of the other spouse or civil partner. This applies regardless of whether the home is owned jointly by the married couple or civil partners or where the home is owned by just one party.

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e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

The €9m question: What are we wow-ing about THIS week?

Wow! Yeah, wow!

I mean…WOW! Eh…what are we wow-ing about THIS week?

All that money…yahoo!

Great!

Yeah…

Eh…how much? €9.2m.

Who won it? Is it the lotto? It’s not you, is it? You wouldn’t have answered my call if it was, would you? Tell me…

No! It’s the town! The county town! It’s been allocated €9.2m in funding!

Wow! Yeah, that’s what I said at the beginning!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to calculate how long it would take to count out €9.2m in one euro coins; they give up very quickly) What will we talk about now?

Well, I was just wondering…what’s it all about?

I know…I often wonder about that too.

What is life all about? Wasn’t it Joxer in Juno and the Paycock who asked ‘What is the stars, what is the stars?’ I mean, what is the universe all about, even? Still, it’s such a privilege to be alive and…

No, not what’s IT all about! Not what’s life all about! Life’s great! Well, it is normally!

Not quite so great at the moment! I meant what’s the ‘€9.2m for Roscommon’ all about?

Oh, THAT! Well, there’s going to be cycle lanes and walkways and a new Civic Square – and lots more!

Great!

Yeah! Hey…you know that political career you’re toying with?

Eh…yeah.

Maybe you’ll be Mayor – or Cathaoirleach – when it’s completed, and you can cut the tape!

Count me in!

(They pause, in order to facilitate their ghostwriter) So my friend, how are you finding March?

Better than January…probably better than February too!

Have you done much?

Oh, let me see…my wife and I had a weekend in New York; since we came back, it’s just been the odd trip to the restaurant; I had a few pints in one of our locals; a coffee here and there during the day; took a day trip to Dublin; visited family and

(They pause to wonder how much more silly their chat can get) Hey, I never asked you last week…did you watch Harry and Meghan with Oprah?

Of course!

Really? I didn’t realise you’re a fan of the Royals…

Nah, not really, it’s just that Harry reminds me of myself…

Both: Oh just stop it!

What we liked…

News that a massive €9.2m has been allocated under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund for significant enhancements in Roscommon Town centre is very welcome indeed. The project involves the creation of a civic square, the creation of pedestrian and cycle routes, and many more infrastructural developments.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

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

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

What we didn’t like…

The temporary suspension of the roll-out of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is a setback – and a cause of concern. Hopefully there will be positive news on this front in the coming days.

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friends; went to a few matches…

Yeah, I know, I know…silly question!

We couldn’t even go to a St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Yeah…at least it removed the annual indecision…as to which of the excellent local parades to go to!

Did you watch Ireland v Scotland?

Of course I watched Ireland v Scotland!

Our local man excelled – again! That’s Robbie Henshaw!

Yeah. And did YOU watch the golf from Florida?

Of course I did! And our local man excelled – again! That’s Shane Lowry!

He reminds me so much of myself!

What? I’ve never seen you play. Is it his driving? His short game? His touch around the greens? I’m impressed…

Oh no, nothing to do with his golf. Just his casual demeanour, his sense of humour, the fact that he doesn’t take himself too seriously…

Okay. Actually, Robbie Henshaw reminds me of MYSELF. Oh really? I never knew you played rugby.

Is it his skill? His engine? His deceptive pace? His… No, nothing to do with rugby, I just lived in Athlone for a while.

PIC OF THE WEEK: Ring Around the Rosie…Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils pictured during break-time.

Photograph by Mick McCormack

The suspension of the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine on a precautionary basis; the political fate of Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, who is under pressure after it was confirmed that Gardaí have launched an investigation into his leaking, when he was Taoiseach, of a confidential government document to a friend; Ireland’s win over Scotland in the Six Nations; the Cheltenham Racing Festival…

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Dr. Daly: ‘Leaders must restore faith in AstraZeneca’

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Dr. Martin Daly

< DAN DOONER

Ballygar GP, Dr. Martin Daly, has said the Government and the HSE now face a huge challenge in restoring faith in the AstraZeneca vaccine after it was temporarily withdrawn from the national vaccination programme on Sunday last.

Ireland was among a number of countries to defer use of the jab following a report from the Norwegian Medicines Agency of four cases of serious blood clotting events in adults after receiving the vaccine.

The European Medicines Agency said there is currently no indication that the vaccination caused the conditions while the World Health Organisation said this week that countries should continue using it.

Dr. Daly believes the National

Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) was overly cautious this week.

“We have to trust in the regulatory bodies of course, but I do think we were excessively cautious in our approach to the AstraZeneca vaccine.

“It is now likely that the European Medicines Agency will recommend that the vaccine be reinstated. The HSE, Government and other health bodies now face a big job of work in restoring faith in AstraZeneca,” he said.

Dr. Daly said he understood why health authorities had been quick to suspend the vaccine following previous scandals as well as a culture of litigation, but added that now was the time to reverse damaging publicity.

He said the UK has led its vaccination programme with

AstraZeneca and while around 40% of its population was now vaccinated, there have been minimal serious side-effects reported.

“There was so much disappointment with the suspension of AstraZeneca because a lot of hopes were pinned to it. It’s extremely effective and easily distributed to communities with no storage issues. It is a vital component in the fight against Covid-19,” he said, before calling on senior political figures to play their part in its reinstatement.

“I would like to see some of our high profile leaders taking the AstraZeneca vaccine to demonstrate their confidence in it. This has worked very well in the US with President Joe Biden taking it and with the Queen in the UK”.

COVID-19 vaccinations are underway, bringing hope to our communities.

As more people are vaccinated, this should help reduce the harm caused by COVID-19.

GPs are currently vaccinating people aged 80 and over.

People aged 75 and over, and then 70 and over will be vaccinated next.

You don’t need to register in advance. As soon as your vaccine is available, your GP will let you know.

We are also making plans to vaccinate people with certain health conditions that put them at very high risk if they get COVID-19.

You do not need to register in advance or take any action at this time. Your healthcare team will contact you when it’s your turn to be vaccinated.

All vaccines are tested before they are approved for use in Ireland.

If you have questions about your COVID-19 vaccine, we have answers you can trust on hse.ie or you can call HSElive on 1850 24 1850.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

€9.2 million boost for Roscommon town < DAN DOONER

Roscommon town is set for a major facelift following last Friday’s announcement of €9.2 million under the Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien announced €82.8 million in funding for seven regeneration projects in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, which includes a major investment in Roscommon town centre.

The projects are aimed at enhancing urban areas to make them more at-

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tractive places in which to live, work, visit, and invest.

The Roscommon County Council project, ‘Putting the Spokes back into the Hub’, consists of the creation of a Civic Square, linking the new Linear Park on Circular Road to the Market Square and Main Street; the activation of backlands of Main Street through pedestrian links to encourage town centre living; the development of opportunities for social infrastructure in the brownfield areas of Henry Street and Church Street, and the creation of pedestrian and cycle routes to create a low-carbon

transport county town.

Referring to the Roscommon town project, Minister O’Brien said: “The multi-faceted project in Roscommon Town, with its emphasis on place making and infrastructure, will bring added vibrancy. The creation of pedestrian and cycle routes will help create a low-carbon in the future.

“Overall, I believe this funding can be a catalyst for regeneration, development and growth. It will also provide much-needed economic stimulus and job creation in the West as our economy emerges from the depths of the pandemic”.

New era! With news this week of a €9.2m regeneration boost for Roscommon Town, we thought it timely to include this photo of a much different Main Street from many decades ago! Photo from Micksie Farrell Collection (courtesy of Pat Hughes & Sean Browne).

Funding welcomed by local representatives

< DAN DOONER

The €9.2 million investment announced for Roscommon town under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund has been warmly welcomed by local public representatives this week.

Independent TD Denis Naughten said the core objective of the fund was to try and build on the existing strengths of each town.

“The town, Loughnaneane Park and Mote Park are key public amenities, not just for the town but for a large rural catchment.

With these investments, and further investments to be announced, we hope to make Roscommon and our county a far more attractive place to visit within Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands,” he said.

Deputy Naughten added that this funding along with funding for upgrading works currently underway in the town and the eventual delivery of fibre broadband

to homes and businesses would attract further investment to the town.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said the development would make walking and cycling a pleasure for the local community and encourage people to become “Roscommon bound in safer times”.

“I have supported this project with Minister of State Peter Burke who has responsibility for Local Government and Planning.

“I congratulate everyone who has been involved in securing this major investment for Roscommon town including the Community, Business and Enterprise Teams in Roscommon County Council, Roscommon Municipal District, local Councillors as well as Roscommon Chamber and the Town Team.

“When it is finished, the tree-lined streets leading to the bank and the Square will be a stunning streetscape bringing real joy and pride to people in Roscommon

town,” she said.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy described last Friday’s funding announcement as a “catalyst for economic growth” and said it would make the county town a better place to live and work.

“It is fantastic news for Roscommon town.

This funding comes on top of €5.13 million for upgrading works already underway which brings total funding to over €14 million.

“The funding is aimed at strategically reimaging and developing Roscommon town. It aims to maximize its place-making potential and create a vibrant town where people will want to live and work and will hopefully help attract future investment,” he said.

Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan said the investment would bring vibrancy as well as more people into the town and paid tribute to Roscommon County Council staff for their work in securing the funding.

Independent Councillor Tony Waldron also welcomed the funding and said the purpose of the fund was to support job creation in rural areas, address depopulation of rural communities and support improvements in towns and villages.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Cllr. Orla Leyden hailed a “bumper week” for the county town and said that the URDF funding offered economic, social and environmental benefits.

Cllr. Leyden said Roscommon County Council is developing the town proactively and thanked the local authority’s Regeneration Team, Chamber of Commerce, as well as members of Roscommon Municipal District.

She also highlighted funding under the Heritage Town Initiative for conservation works on Castle Street, Goff Street, and Abbey Street Upper, which she said would further improve the town.

Roscommon man who died in Donegal crash laid to rest The Roscommon man who died following a road traffic accident in Donegal last Thursday morning was laid to rest on Monday afternoon.

Ballyfarnon native, Ronan Healy, aged in his 30s, was killed in a crash between a van and car on the N15 at Ballymagroarty in Ballintra, Co. Donegal at around 8 am on Thursday last. He was brought to Sligo University Hospital with critical injuries but sadly passed away on Thursday afternoon.

A married father of one, Mr. Healy had most recently been living in Ballintogher, Co. Sligo with his wife and young son.

Mr. Healy’s home GAA club St. Ronan’s paid tribute to him on social

media: ‘We’ve lost one of our own today, a dark cloud has descended over the whole club, we are heartbroken. Ronan was one of best and most dedicated players to wear the blue shirt and we are completely devastated for his wife Diane, his little baby Caolan, his dad PJ and his whole family. A lovely gentle guy who was liked and loved by all who had the pleasure of being in his company’.

Mr. Healy’s Funeral Mass took place at St. Teresa’s Church, Ballintogher, where he and his wife had been married and where their son, Caolán, had been baptised. The burial took place afterwards in Carrowcrin Cemetery.

Predeceased by his moth-

er Josephine, the late Mr. Healy is sadly missed by his wife Diane, son Caolán, father PJ, sister Ma-

retti, brothers Leonard, Peadar, Daragh and Killian, his extended family and many friends.

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

05

Digital edition of ‘A Dictionary of Roscommon Biography’ As the 930-page hardback edition of ‘A Dictionary of Roscommon Biography’ has almost sold out, the compiler, Mike Lennon, has launched a digital edition to facilitate interested readers at home and abroad who were unable to purchase a copy. Many were prevented from calling to newsagents and bookshops around Roscommon because of Covid-19 local and international travel restrictions.

They now have the opportunity to obtain a copy from the comfort of their homes/ offices within hours of ordering.

The book, first published last August, contains the obituaries of 5,000 women and men associated with County Roscommon and its hinterland, spanning four centuries, and covers the careers of representatives from politics, sport, arts, religion, law, business and journalism. Further details about the book can be found on its website, roscommonbiography.com.

The digital edition of the book may be purchased online for €10 by visiting the website for Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Tulsk: rathcroghan.ie/shop/.

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Pictured in their ‘Class of 2021’ hoodies are Roxboro National School pupils Diana, Ana, Sarah and Grace. Photograph by Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Saturday It’s interesting how special an impact the great sports’ commentators have on the public. Invariably, the very best of them possess all or some of the following qualities/traits: eloquence, passion, knowledge, and a sense of humour. The best are also usually gifted in terms of timing and instinct.

Often we associate great sporting moments and feats almost as much with the commentary as with the actual act of sporting greatness. Clearly the moment belongs to the sportsperson or team, but the commentator will sometimes deservedly enter folklore with them.

One thinks of Jimmy Magee’s (“Different class”) commentary on Maradona’s solo goal for Argentina against England in the 1986 World Cup, of the same man’s memorable reeling off of medal-winning Irish Olympians as John Treacy crossed the line to win silver in Los Angeles.

Kenneth Wolstenholme (“They think it’s all over…it is now”) is deservedly immortalised, synonymous with Geoff Hurst and the rest of the England team that won the 1966 World Cup. When it comes to great commentators, I think fondly too of Bill McLaren (rugby), John Motson (soccer), Micheal O’Muircheartaigh and Micheal O’Hehir (GAA), and the peerless Sid Waddell (darts).

Today, news of the passing of another legendary commentator, the wonderful Murray Walker. He was simply magnificent. I can honestly say that, for a few years, the main reason I watched Grand Prix racing was because of Murray’s passionate commentary. Loved by millions of people, he brightened many afternoons.

(A TV tribute programme broadcast on Tuesday night was very nostalgic).

Sunday It’s become a cliché now to speak of great sporting weekends. Today, I calculated (it wasn’t difficult) that one could watch live sport (football, rugby, golf) for about eleven hours in a row. As it was Mother’s Day, I didn’t indulge to that extent!

I did however watch Scotland v Ireland, some football, and the engrossing finale to the Players’ Championship in Florida.

By the time I got to the golf, Offaly’s uncrowned king, Shane Lowry, had sensationally played his way into contention. In the end, Justin Thomas held off everyone’s new favourite veteran, the gentlemanly Lee Westwood.

A few hours earlier, Johnny Sexton

All week

Pictured are Roxboro National School pupils Dylan, Oisin and Gerald. Photograph by Mick McCormack

reminded us that, whatever about injuries and the passing years, class is indeed permanent.

His superb late penalty sealed victory for Ireland after Scotland had reeled in a 14-point gap on the scoreboard.

Monday On the morning school run, the car radio emits some form of narrative on the state of the nation, the world too.

Usually it’s politics-driven. Not always.

Before the pre-Christmas lockdown kicked in, my final memory of listening to the car radio on the way to school relates to a report on Morning Ireland on the disappearance from Kerry waters of Fungie, the Dingle Dolphin.

This morning, three months or so on, my first experience of listening to Morning Ireland on the resumed school run again involves a report on a Kerry-based sea mammal. Sadly, it’s not the return of Fungie; instead, an ‘Artic walrus’ has appeared on rocks at Valentia Island in County Kerry.

The walrus was spotted by Alan Houlihan and his five-year-old daughter Muireann, affectionately described by her father as “the David Attenborough of Valencia Island”.

Our friends in Dingle take up the story.

Kevin Flannery, Director of Dingle Oceanworld – which we had the pleasure of visiting a few years back – says: “This is

incredible. He’s from the Artic. It’s the first confirmed sighting of a walrus in Ireland”.

Kevin’s theory is that the walrus may have fallen asleep on an iceberg before drifting into the mid-Atlantic.

Anyways, from disappearing dolphin to wandering walrus, my return to Morning Ireland on the school run is completed.

I expect it will be back to Paul Reid/ Luke O’Neill/Paschal Donohoe/Heather Humphreys tomorrow morning.

Monday night I watched a poignant ‘Lodging with Lucy’ tonight. It featured the great Paul McGrath.

The football legend has admitted to some unacceptable behaviour in his troubled past, but the sense remains that he is at heart a good man who was initially dealt a ‘tough hand’ in life.

Whatever about his difficult upbringing, and his much publicised alcohol problems in later life – none of which I reference lightly – he was an outstanding footballer, and is clearly a uniquely humble person. In this engaging programme, McGrath came across as likeable, lonely, and – as ever – remarkably modest. Tonight, I saw a man whom I suspect is not yet fully freed of familiar demons. I wish him well. He will always be a national hero.

Such strange times are these. Anyways, and happily, it’s ‘Back to school’ time in our house this week. This is good. Mind you, it will take us a while to adjust to the old normal, or the new normal, or wherever we are in the world just now.

On Monday, various classes returned to primary school, and fifth years went back to secondary school. It’s a welcome development. Our hope is that everything goes well for students, parents and teachers, that everybody stays safe.

Matthew, our 10-year-old son, was very much looking forward to meeting up again with his classmates and teachers at St. Coman’s Wood NS. Homeschooling went well, but it’s great to see children returning to an actual school environment, not just for the obvious educational reasons, but also because they can resume some level of social interaction, which is so vital to their personal development.

This has been a very challenging time for young children (as for everyone in society).

It will be a week of adjusting, including for us as parents! During lockdown, we pass less heed on the ‘ticking clock’. For most people, familiar routines are lost.

At times, you almost lose track of what day of the week it is. A tedious sameness holds the nation hostage.

For those families with children going back to school, the welcome challenge now is to ‘re-set the clock’.

Suddenly, it’s back to rising at 7.45/8 am!

Familiar symbols of the school routine – lunch preparation, uniform checking, homework, money for this or that, searching for sports’ gear – are returning to the centre stage.

On balance, routine feels good. Of course it will mean going to bed earlier at night, with less binging on some of the excellent TV/Netflix dramas around (currently enjoying ‘Your Honor’).

As the week progressed, the readapting to routine has gone well (with a welcome break on St. Patrick’s Day!). There’s even been a new (lesser known) GFA. This GFA is of course the ‘Good Fortnite Agreement’.

Yes! Now that school’s back, and after weeks of hollering and associated animated mayhem in our house – as video games reigned during lockdown – we’re quietly confident that the return of conventional schooling (and our GFA) will deliver some tranquillity…and less of those very popular Fortnite/related video games! I’m sure it’s a similar story in other households around Roscommon!

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Two arrested as hundreds gather for Carrick funeral Gardaí arrested two people and issued more than eighty fixed penalty notices following a funeral in Carrick-on-Shannon on Thursday last, which saw nearly 300 mourners in attendance despite Covid-19 restrictions.

Following the funeral of popular 22-year-old Davey Reilly, who was laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, large numbers of mourners attended a marquee on a local halting site, with some mourners believed to have broken through a Garda cordon.

Local Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan said he received a number of calls from local constituents following the funeral.

Deputy Feighan said: “I like many other public representatives received a number of

Colm Griffin pictured receiving his first Covid-19 vaccine from Nurse Drury at The Clinic, Ballaghaderreen. Photograph: Mick McCormack

representations from angry constituents in relation to the reported numbers who attended at the graveyard and other gatherings after the funeral of Mr. Reilly.

“In the first instance I want to offer my sympathies to the family of the deceased in tragic circumstances.

“I understand that Gardai issued a number of fines and made arrests which is unfortunate (i.e. that the need arose)…it is clear despite public calls from a variety of people and organisations many people who attended the funeral came from the UK and many parts of Ireland, which clearly breaks the regulations.

“Many people are angry because they have kept to the re-

strictions as set out by government, resulting in them missing seeing friends and relations for over 12 months now and when they see some people not adhering to the rules – like what happened in Carrick-on-Shannon – they get very annoyed and frustrated”.

Independent TD for SligoLeitrim Marian Harkin condemned the scenes and demanded a Garda explanation into how so many people were allowed to visit the town for the funeral.

Martin Collins, co-director of Traveller representative group, Pavee Point, said it was unacceptable that hundreds of people ignored the public health restrictions, describing their actions as “very concerning”.

Roscommon LEADER welcomes rise in funding

Roscommon LEADER Partnership, a member of the Irish Local Development Network (ILDN) who represent the thirty-five Local Development Companies (LDCs) that deliver the LEADER Programme nationally, have welcomed the announcement by Minister for Rural and Community

Development Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister for Agriculture Food and Marine Charlie McConalogue TD, of an increased allocation of €70 million in 2021 and 2022 for the LEADER Programme.

Welcoming the announcement, Martina Earley (Roscommon LEADER

Partnership CEO) said: “Roscommon LEADER Partnership and ILDN have been calling recently for the Government to utilise funding available from the EU for Rural Development, for the purposes of LEADER. As the deliverers of LEADER in Co. Roscommon, we are greatly encouraged by this an-

nouncement of an increased allocation of €70 million to the end of 2022.

“The LEADER Programme offers the ideal vehicle for the delivery of development funding to rural areas in a most effective manner. The allocation of this increased funding will deliver critical stimulus to rural areas and help

drive the post-Covid recovery. Furthermore, the funding announced this week will ensure that more vital projects in Co. Roscommon, focused on climate change, digital transformation, remote working and enterprise development, can be progressed in our rural communities”, she concluded.

Public Notice.

Bord na Móna owns approximately 7% of Irish peatlands. In the past, nearly all of the formerly-operational bogs were involved with milling peat, mainly for combustion in power stations and with around one fifth supplying fuels and horticulture businesses. In recent years, turf cut on Bord na Móna lands accounted for less than 5% of the turf supply in Ireland.

Pictured after receiving their vaccinations at The Clinic, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, are Joe and Bertha Dooney (Edmondstown). Photograph: Mick McCormack

Naughten calls for third banking force Independent TD Denis Naughten has called for the establishment of a third banking force following the closure of local Bank of Ireland branches and Ulster Bank’s withdrawal from the Irish market.

Deputy Naughten said that both personal customers and small businesses were being excluded in the current model.

“With 13% of people not using online banking, a figure that is even higher across Roscommon-Galway, even a simple service such as the provision of

24-hour access to an ATM for both lodgements and withdrawals in rural towns would make a big difference in helping these towns recover after Covid,” Deputy Naughten said.

“Prior to Covid these towns were beginning to reinvent themselves, particularly with the opportunity of Government funding through tourism, rural regeneration and town and village schemes. The decision by Bank of Ireland is a significant setback to their plans”.

The TD said that unless a third

banking force received crossparty support it would be a “doomed failure”.

“There is no doubt that there is an absolute mindset block against State involvement in the banking sector. Surely if Covid has taught us anything it is that when it is needed ways can be found for State intervention in the long-term public interest?”

He added that the basic infrastructure was already in place and that post offices and credit unions could be utilised in any new service.

In 2019, the High Court ruled (ref- [2019] IEHC 646) that peat extraction operations on bogs over 30 hectares requires planning permission. Following the company’s decision to cease peat extraction, we are communicating to interested parties to confirm the current position.

We wish to specifically note: People with turbary rights on Bord na Móna lands continue to enjoy the same property rights as before the High Court ruling. As before, it remains the responsibility of turbary rights holders to ensure that their activities are not in contravention of any current planning and/or environmental regulations.

Since the 2019 High Court ruling, Bord na Móna has not issued licences to commercial contractors or other licenced turf cutters. This remains the situation. Unauthorised turf cutting on Bord na Móna lands has always been and remains an illegal activity.

If you have further queries, email: landuseinfo@bnm.ie

bordnamona.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Small Business Assistance Scheme For Covid [SBASC] The Department of Enterprise Trade & Employment has launched the Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC) for businesses ineligible for CRSS & other sector specific grants.

The scene at Loughnaneane Park on St. Patrick’s Day (Wednesday) following the discovery of discarded cans and bottles.

The grant, which is available as a contribution towards fixed costs to assist a business to keep operational for an eventual re-opening, is only available to an applicant operating from a rateable property. The scheme covers the period 1 January 2021 to 30 June 2021. Each eligible applicant will receive a payment of €4,000 with an additional payment of €4,000 from May 2021 to applicants continuing to meet the scheme eligibility criteria.

< DAN DOONER

The details of the SBASC include: • the scheme is available to companies, self-employed, sole traders or partnerships, with a minimum turnover of €50,000 and are not owned and operated by a public body. The Scheme is open to firms that currently employ less than 250 and with current turnover of less than €25m; • the business is not eligible for CRSS, the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity Scheme, or the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Live Performance Support; • the business operates from a building, or similar fixed physical structure on which business rates are payable (mobile premises, or premises which are not permanently fixed in place, do not meet the definition of business premises nor do premises on which no rates are payable); • the business must have a current eTax Clearance Certificate from the Revenue Commissioners; • the turnover of the business over the claim period is estimated to be no more than 25% of the average weekly turnover of the business in 2019; or the projected average weekly turnover of the business for 1st January to 31st March 2021, and 30th of June 2021 where applicable, for businesses that commenced after 1st November 2019, and the financial plans as of end of 2019 should be uploaded with the application; • the business intends to resume trading in full once Government restrictions are eased; How to Apply Closing date for receipt of applications is 21st April, 2021. Go to www. roscommoncoco.ie and click My Online Services to complete the online application or click https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com/MyServices.

Refer to Roscommon County Council’s website for further details on the scheme and the Frequently Asked Questions.

Should you have any queries in relation to the SBASC please contact 090 66 32555 or email ratesenquiries@roscommoncoco.ie Signed:

Martin Lydon Director of Services

Tidy Towns group slams Loughnaneane litter louts Roscommon Tidy Towns Chairperson, Cllr.

Kathleen Shanagher, has described littering at Loughnaneane Park as “totally unacceptable” after empty beer bottles and cans were discovered at the amenity on St. Patrick’s Day (yesterday).

A Tidy Towns volunteer was called into action due to Wednesday being a public holiday.

“Firstly, it’s against the law to drink alcohol

in Loughnaneane Park and it’s unfortunate that some people think it’s acceptable to do so and then throw their rubbish in a public amenity used by many local people.

“The Gardaí have been made aware of this incident by members of the public and will be patrolling the park in coming days,” she said.

Cllr. Shanagher praised the work of Roscommon County Council staff and local Tidy Towns volunteer Tommy Parker for their efforts in keeping the area clean.

Kerrane wants response to driving test backlog

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has called for a range of measures to be introduced to deal with the “massive” driving test and lessons backlog that has built up as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The latest figures we have show that 98,414 people are waiting to sit their driving test, while another 79,276 people are waiting to sit the driver theory test when it resumes.

“In Roscommon there are 1,087 people waiting for a driving test and 898 waiting for a theory test in Castlerea.

“These types of figures could see people waiting up to seven months for a test if issues are not addressed urgently,” she said.

Deputy Kerrane said that de-

spite the Road Safety Authority seeking permission to hire 80 additional testers, just 40 had been granted with none yet in position.

She said the RSA also needs to introduce longer opening hours while also carrying out more tests each day.

Regarding the driver theory test, Sinn Féin believe the exam should now take place online similar to the tests for bus, truck, CPC and ADI categories.

Deputy Kerrane added: “Even though essential workers are permitted to sit their driving test during Level 5 restrictions, they are not permitted to take lessons; apart from one pre-test lesson.

“We believe this needs to

change…due to the fact that you cannot sit a driving test without first completing twelve mandatory EDT lessons”.

The local TD also called for Approved Driving Instructors to be provided with high-grade Personal Protective Equipment while at work.

“ADIs have been treated very poorly by the RSA and the Department of Transport during this time, finding themselves locked out of testing centres over the winter months.

“The Minister must engage with ADIs, testers and their unions to address these concerns.

These workers must be centrally involved in preparing a roadmap out of the current challenges,” she said.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday March 21 2021 Our readings today are filled with anticipation. The days are coming, Jeremiah prophesies in today’s First Reading. The hour has come, Jesus says in the Gospel. The new covenant that God promised to Jeremiah is made in the “hour” of Jesus – in His Death, Resurrection, and Ascension to the Father’s right hand.

The prophets said this new covenant would return Israel’s exiled tribes from the ends of the world (see Jeremiah 31:1, 3–4, 7–8). Jesus too predicted His passion would gather the dispersed children of God (see John 11:52). But today He promises to draw to Himself not only Israelites, but all men and women.

The new covenant is more than a political or national restoration. As we sing in today’s Psalm, it is a universal spiritual restoration. In the “hour” of Jesus, sinners in every nation can return to the Father – to be washed of their guilt and given new hearts to love and serve Him. In predicting He will be “lifted up,” Jesus isn’t describing only His coming

Crucifixion (see John 3:14–15). Isaiah used the same word to tell how the Messiah, after suffering for Israel’s sins, would be raised high and greatly exalted (see Isaiah 52:3). Elsewhere the term describes how kings are elevated above their subjects (see 1 Maccabees 8:13).

Troubled in His agony, Jesus doesn’t pray to be saved.

Instead, as we hear in today’s Epistle, He offers himself to the Father on the Cross – as a living prayer and supplication. For this, God gives Him dominion over heaven and earth (see Acts 2:33; Philippians 2:9).

Where He has gone we can follow – if we let Him lead us. To follow Jesus means hating our lives of sin and selfishness. It means trusting in the Father’s will, the law He has written in our hearts. Jesus’ “hour” continues in the Eucharist, where we join our sacrifices to His, giving God our lives in reverence and obedience – confident He will raise us up to bear fruits of holiness.

– Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

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

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

we as a people not just go for a zero FF/FG strategy?

Philip O’Connor @philipoconnor

Jason O @jasononeill1992

– As ever, ‘Ming’ wants the old guard replaced

Brian Kerr is a national treasure

Rory’s Stories @RorysStories

Cancel all TV. Just put the #tommytiernanshow on for all the hours, he can manage it. The rest are just wasting their time at this stage.

– Most people would agree Valerie @catwoman67 Wasn’t sure what to expect but #crockofgoldfilm is a truly absorbing documentary. Crafted with warmth and creativity. Shane’s brilliance shining through. A must see. #crockofgoldfilm #shanemacgowan #JohnnyDepp

Can’t beat pure honesty. Always guaranteed great viewing. Eamon Dunphy speaks from the heart, agree or disagree, you’d deffo have respect for the man. #tommytiernanshow – More praise for Tommy (and Eamon) Piers Morgan @piersmorgan

Davey B @Dave_B24

Piers Morgan

Absolutely all joking aside, Paddy’s Day should be three days next year to make up for 2020 and 2021 – We’ll leave that one with our readers

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan @lukeming

Happy St Patrick’s Day! 4yrs ago today, I had the incredible honour of interviewing the late, great Professor Stephen Hawking.

His aides said he loved Guinness so I got some in & he programmed a very special toast. From black holes to the black stuff... what a day, what a man.

This “living with” FF/ FG strategy is not working. We’re at it for decades now. Can

– Piers celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with a special memory

– People raved about this BBC special on Shane McGowan, broadcast on Tuesday night

– Okay, this is getting a bit ridiculous…

chris o’dowd @BigBoyler I shall always remember this as the year my weighing scales turned into a goddamn heartless liar!

– Seems Chris can’t ‘weight’ for the old normal to return…

Chris O’Dowd

ROBERT FLYNN

THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON - Tel: (094) 9620028

Spring has arrived: Buy early and don’t be disappointed.

Vegetables Just arrived - Early seed potatoes, onion sets, shallots, red onions, vegetable plants, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, leeks, and turnips. Vegetable seeds loose half the price of pre-packed seeds.

Pictured playing in the sandbox are Scoil Bhríde National School pupils Conor, James, Maebh, Donncha and Rory.

Photograph by Mick McCormack

Cathaoirleach’s Awards 2021: Local Heroes Rock Art Project Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Laurence Fallon invites Primary and Secondary Schools to take part in the Local Heroes Rock Art Project, part of the Cathaoirleach’s Awards Competition 2021.

There are four categories in which awards will be made: Most Creative Rock Art Trail (for both Secondary School level and Primary School Level respectively) and Most Environmentally Friendly Rock Art Trail (also for both Secondary School level and Primary School Level respectively).

Students are invited to create art pieces responding to the theme ‘Local Heroes’, using small rocks or stones to be part of their school’s Rock Art Trail. All prize money

will be paid directly to the winning schools. The prize is €250 for each category. Schools must register their interest in taking part by emailing creativeireland@roscommoncoco.ie before March 31st, 2021. The closing date for the receipt of video entries is May 12th, 2021.

Local heroes can be historical or present day, from any walk of life.

For example, a local sports hero, someone from the arts, frontline workers, local volunteers, teachers or family members that they feel have earned hero status in their eyes.

The Local Heroes Rock Art Trails will be created in time for Cruinniú na nÓg, Ireland’s national day of creative activity for children,

young people, and entire families, which will take place on Saturday, June 12th. The awards will be announced/presented by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Laurence Fallon on Friday, June 11th. Listings of all of the Rock Art Trails will feature in Roscommon County Council’s Cruinniú na nÓg programme so that they can be enjoyed by all (adhering to Covid restrictions).

Artist Sarah Lundy has created a video with ideas for materials to use and methods to paint/draw on the rocks including the use of recycled/environmentally friendly materials and responding to the theme Local Heroes. Further Information is available on: roscommoncoco.ie/ en/Services/Community/CreativeIreland/Cathaoirleach-s-Awards/.

Potatoes Early seed potatoes – British Queens, Cara, Rose Garden, Colleen, Casa Blanca – all available at Flynns Castlerea

Firearms Fully licensed firearms dealer - No longer want to license your firearm?

We can store or destroy it for a small fee. Shotgun cartilages, bullets, clay pigeons, and all accessories are available.

Animals 2021 fishing season permits - large range of fishing tackle, rods, reels, spinners and spoons.

Weak or orphaned lambs, you need Frisky by the bag or by the pound.

Bottle tops, biestings, infra-red lamps.

Wild-bird care, wide selection of peanuts, wild-bird seed, robin and songbird mix.

Special offer: 25kg peanuts only €49. Bird tables and feeders.

Garden Flower seeds and wild flower seeds - Hayseed acres and ½ acres, lawn seed, sulphate iron, or lawn sand for moss in lawns, all available. Summer flowering bulbs, gladiolus lily, and dahlia available.

Keycutting service available for all types of keys – cylinder, mortice, padlock, etc.

Watch battery and strap replacement service also offered, as well as a photocopying service.

All at Robert Flynn, the Square, Castlerea. 094 9620028.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

The

G

D News page

Author with Roscommon connections launches first book < DAN DOONER

An author with strong connections to County Roscommon recently launched his first book, a memoir, called ‘The Will of Annie’.

Anthony Giblin, whose father, Joe, was from Kilmore in Co. Roscommon, and whose mother, Annie, hailed from Rossport in Co. Mayo, grew up on a council estate in Birmingham but has never forgotten his west of Ireland roots.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Anthony said: “I am a construction

worker, now living in Celbridge for the past 17 years with my wife and family. I took up writing as a hobby and completed a home study course with Kilroy’s College in 2013 which opened up a new world for me. I went about my first draft, before completing another course at Maynooth University where I was tutored by the gifted John MacKenna”.

‘The Will of Annie’ is a heartfelt narrative detailing Anthony’s life and that of his widowed father, who was left with six children to raise on a Birmingham council estate. It tells of holidays in the west of Ireland and how the au-

Congratulations!

Congratulations and best wishes to Tara Kilcommons, Rooskey, and Odhran O’Doherty, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, on their recent engagement at Cloonfad, Rooskey. May they have many happy years ahead of them!

Over 8 million views and counting…

Author Anthony Giblin pictured with his father Joe Giblin, who hails from Kilmore, Co. Roscommon.

‘The Will of Annie’ is Anthony Giblin’s first book and is available in a number of independent bookshops and online at bookdepository.com.

thor eventually found love here.

Told with honesty and humour, it is a thoughtful and moving memoir from an engaging writer, inspired

by Anthony’s daughter’s brave battle with illness.

“One day in 2012, I was called home from the site because my wife, Niamh, was at her wits’ end, telling me there was something seriously wrong with our seven-year-old daughter, Annie, who had been complaining of dizzy spells and migraines.

“We took Annie to Crumlin Children’s Hospital, whereupon discovering a large tumour in her brain,

they rushed her to Temple Street. We had to fill out a form of consent for her to be operated on the following day, which just happened to be the date of my mother’s anniversary.

Also called Annie, she had passed away in 1981 due to a tumour in her brain.

“I try to transport the reader back to Birmingham, my homeplace, where my parents from the west of Ireland settled.

I write about the struggles of my father in raising six kids on a council estate and our trips back to Mayo and Roscommon,” he said.

Anthony’s wife, Niamh, hails from his mother’s

hometown of Rossport, and has greatly encouraged him in his writing.

Last Christmas, she presented him with 30 copies of his BookHub published manuscript as well as a link to the book on Amazon.

The Will of Annie quickly sold out on Amazon but a Kindle version is still available and copies can also be purchased in some independent bookshops as well as online at bookdepository.com.

For more information, check out www.anthonygiblinwriter.com or the Anthony Giblin Writer Facebook page.

Ballintubber musician, Fiona Sirr, says she’s “shocked and delighted” with the worldwide reaction to music videos she has uploaded to her Facebook page during lockdown.

The Carlow native has been performing modern classics with an Irish Trad twist since March of last year and her videos have been viewed more than 8 million times by people from all over the world.

“I have almost 20,000 followers now and my performance of ‘Fields of Gold’ has been viewed over one million times alone. It’s just mad that something I recorded in my living room has been seen by so many people,” she said.

Fiona shot to local fame when she started recording videos during flooding in Ballintubber over a year ago and she has been going from strength to strength ever since!

Kepak celebrates International Women’s Day! To celebrate International Women’s Day, which took place recently, and to champion the firm’s 54 female employees, Kepak Athleague matched and donated canteen takings of €1,000 to the Roscommon Women’s Network!

(Right) Pictured is Lorna Kennedy, Purchasing Manager, Meat Division (right), making a cheque presentation of €1,000 to Nora Fahy, Manager, Roscommon Women’s Network on site at Kepak Athleague.

Pictured are some of the 54 female employees working at Kepak Athleague, who gathered together to mark International Women’s Day.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Architect’s image for proposed ward block extension at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe.

50-bed ward at Portiuncula progresses < DAN DOONER

The construction of a new 50-bed ward block at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe has progressed to the next phase and a shortlisting process is now currently ongoing to identify suitable building contractors.

The contractor selection process closes on March 25th and shortly afterwards tenders will be issued to a

shortlisted panel.

Commenting on the latest development of the €15 million project, General Manager of Portiuncula Hospital, James Keane, said: “We are delighted to be progressing this essential project which, when complete, will greatly enhance the delivery of acute hospital care in the region.

“Our aim is that the enabling works to install the necessary infrastructure

and utilities will be complete by the end of July.

“In terms of the main construction works, procurement for contractor services is ongoing and we aim to commence this phase of construction in August 2021”.

Independent TD Denis Naughten stressed the need for the tender process to proceed without any further delays.

Senator Dolan hails campaign success Welcoming the progress at Portiuncula Hospital, Senator Aisling Dolan said it is a win for people in East Galway who placed their faith in her.

Senator Dolan said: “It is fantastic to hear confirmation of the tender process for Stage 2 construction of the 50-bed unit in Ballinasloe.

Opening is scheduled for Q1 2023 and this will deliver a much-needed boost for over 400,000 patients and families in the Galway, Roscommon, Westmeath, Offaly and North Tipperary who call Portiuncula their hospital. These single, en-suite rooms will give

patients dignity and privacy for families, and will also reduce overcrowding and risk of infection in multi-bed wards.

“This investment was needed decades ago. The design brief for the 50-bed unit was agreed in 2014, and planning permission was received in 2016, however there was no further progress at that time.

“In September 2019, I led a senior clinical team delegation from Portiuncula Hospital to meet with former Minister of Health Simon Harris.

As a new councillor in 2019, I negotiated this hard-won

meeting as part of an agreement to join the majority grouping at Galway County Council. At this meeting, Minister Harris gave approval of funding and visited the teams in Portiuncula on November 1st 2019, where he confirmed the tender process for Stage 1 Enabling Works.

“This is a win for the people of East Galway who voted for me in 2019. This is a win for the healthcare teams in Portiuncula Hospital who have worked for years on this project for our hospital. It is a crucial investment in Portiuncula for the future”.

“After I secured the commitment for the ward block development at Portiuncula Hospital from then Health Minister Simon Harris, there was a delay at the same stage of the tender process for the ground works contract which ultimately led to a six-month delay in the project,” he said.

“The fact is that Portiuncula is down 10% of its beds at the moment due to Covid-19 restrictions at a time when

there is unprecedented demand on the hospital and the last thing we need is further delays”.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said the development was a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure in this region.

“I am delighted to see it coming to fruition as it will most definitely enhance the delivery of acute hospital care in the region”.

Roscommon LEADER Partnership (RLP) is recruiting for a

RURAL RECREATION OFFICER The person appointed will have relevantRECREATION qualifications andOFFICER work experience to undertake to deliver RURAL a range of national countryside recreation services on behalf of the RLP in the geographic area of Co. The personand appointed willThe have relevant qualifications andthe work experience to of undertake Roscommon Longford. range of services will include implementation the WalkstoSchemes deliver a rangearea of national countryside recreation on behalf of the RLP in objectives the in the geographic of Co. Roscommon and Longford services and delivery of the following other of thegeographic National Countryside to include therange following: area of Co.Recreational RoscommonStrategy and Longford.

The of services will include the implementation of thethe Walks Schemes and in the geographicofarea of Co. projects, Roscommon and • Promote and encourage development improvement recreational infrastructure and Longford and delivery of the following other objectives of the National Countryside activities including land, water and air based activities, Recreational Strategy to include the following: • Develop, improve and promote other outdoor recreational activities including mountain access, • Promote and encourage development and improvement of recreational projects, • Develop and implement trailthe monitoring reporting and inspection system for all the way marked ways in infrastructure and activities including land,which waterare andrelevant air basedtoactivities, the County both current and future schemes the walks scheme, • Develop, andof promote other recreational activities including mountain access, • Deliver on theimprove objectives the NCRS, in outdoor conjunction with State Agencies, Local/Regional authorities and•community groups, Develop and implement trail monitoring reporting and inspection system for all the way marked

in the County both current andTeam futureand schemes which areTourism relevantWorking to the walks scheme, • Work ways extensively with the RLP LEADER Roscommon Group in the realisation of Roscommon Strategy which is co-ordinated Roscommon County Council’s Tourism Officer, • Deliver onTourism the objectives of the NCRS, in conjunction by with State Agencies, Local/Regional authorities and community groups, • Realise eligible Rural Development (LEADER) programme tourism projects which will be eligible for funding under the National Rural 2014-20 & LEADER • Work extensively with the RLPDevelopment LEADER team Programme and Roscommon Tourism WorkingTransitional group in theProgramme 2021-2023. realisation of Roscommon Tourism Strategy which is co-ordinated by Roscommon County

Council’s are Tourism Officer,requirements to fulfill the role: The following essential • A minimum of a nationally recognised(LEADER) THIRD LEVEL QUALIFICATION (Levelwhich 8 or higher the national • Realise eligible Rural Development programme tourism projects will be on eligible framework of qualifications). for funding under the National Rural Development Programme 2014-20 & LEADER Transitional • Previous management/supervisory experience particularly in the area of tourism development and Programme 2021-2023. walks development.

The following essentialand requirements to fulfill role:of success in relation to delivering on tourism • Knowledge andare experience have a strong trackthe record development and marketing initiatives and strategies.

• A minimum of a nationally recognised THIRD LEVEL QUALIFICATION (Level 8 or higher on the • Flexibility in terms of working base within the geographic area. national framework of qualifications).

• Strong track record in terms of rural tourism and outdoor recreation development.

• Previous management/supervisory experience particularly in the area of tourism • Computer literacy to a high standard. development and walks development.

• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.

• toKnowledge and experience and have a strong track record of success in relation delivering • Ability relate to all stakeholders. on tourism development • Strong communication skills. and marketing initiatives and strategies.

• toFlexibility in terms of and working base within the geographic area.

• Ability work to deadlines to multitask. track record in terms of rural tourism and outdoor recreation development.

• Own •car Strong and full current driving licence.

•

Computer literacy to a high standard.

This is •a full-time theinitiative salary will Ability toposition; work on own andbeascommensurate part of a team. with experience within the context funding provision. Travel expenses will be paid where appropriate. The contract is fixed term and is subject to • Ability to relate to all stakeholders. funding provision.

• Strong communication skills. listing willtoapply.

A panel be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

• Short Ability to work deadlines and may to multitask. references • Own car and fullSatisfactory current driving licence. and Garda vetting will be required.

Full Job Description can be downloaded from www.rosleaderpartnership/ recruitment To apply for the position, please submit your CV and letter of application to: recruitment@ridc.ie clearly stating which position you are applying for.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5 pm, Friday 26th of March 2021 Roscommon LEADER Partnership is an Equal Opportunities Employer The funding for this position is provided for by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Pictured at Leinster House in September 2019 is the Portiuncula Delegation: Cllr. Jimmy McClearn, Director of Nursing Marita Fogarty, Maire Kelly, Senator Aisling Dolan and Portiuncula Hospital General Manager James Keane.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Roll on long summer evenings, and a break from ‘Misery TV’ Our man Frank is unhappy with one TV show dampening the Mother’s Day mood; he expresses concern over Ireland’s prospects against England this weekend; recalls playing rugby with Dick Spring…and highlights ‘young lads on huge tractors’…

It’s Sunday morning – Mother’s Day. I get up early enough and think to myself that this is one of the best days of the year; a day on which everyone who is lucky enough that their mothers are still alive can show them how much they mean to them, pamper them a little, and, for this day at least, make them feel that bit extra special.

And so I came down the stairs full of the joys of life, admired the bunches of lovely flowers the children had got for Carol, and before we tucked into the very full Irish, turned on the telly and tuned into Ireland AM with Simon Delaney and Anna Daly.

Seldom, if ever, have I regretted turning on any programme as much.

The presenters (whom I normally

like) had a guest psychotherapist on the couch, and she was doing her best to pour a bucket of cold water on my high spirits.

She told us about the heartbreak being suffered by so many mothers all around the world, the loneliness and isolation they were suffering because of Covid, the sense of desolation because their children couldn’t visit them on the special day. You would swear everyone was suffering from depression, and mothers everywhere were getting ready to spend the day in floods of tears. She was giving advice on how to cope with the loneliness and the sadness, and I turned it off just in time to stop myself sinking into the self-pity trap.

I turned on the country music channel Spotlight, where the sight and sound of a new Lisa McHugh track restored my good humour. As you know by now, myself and Lisa have a long distance love affair going on – it may be a bit one-sided right now, but you never know. It is good to see her back on the scene after a long absence, and please God she will be performing on stage again, whenever things return to normal.

Now, I often see Paul writing about the misery that the Late Late inflicts on us every week, and he is dead right about that, but at least it comes on at night, when we have a full day behind us. Why we have to be met with misery first thing on a Sunday morn-

England calling: Farrell must be ruthless in team selection As I write these words on Monday, I am just wondering how our Irish rugby team, right, continues to be so infuriating to watch. Despite our win over a poor Scottish team, I shudder to think what England might do to us this Saturday.

The funny thing is that we have some players playing out of their skin – in particular Athlone’s Robbie Henshaw, and also Tadhg Beirne – but unfortunately our head coach Andy Farrell doesn’t seem to be watching the same games as everyone else in the country. How James Lowe (who is very good in attack but appalling in defence), Gibson-Park (a very mediocre scrum-half), and Garry Ringrose (who has regressed at a huge rate since his injury last season) are commanding places on this Irish team beats me, and those three at least must be benched for the weekend’s battle with the English.

I don’t want to get into the residency debate, but two out of those three are rugby imports – both were born in New Zealand and qualified to play for Ireland because they’re here for three years or more.

It seems to me that unless a player is miles better than his competitors – which GibsonPark and Lowe clearly aren’t

– we should be looking after our own homegrown talent.

Anyway, we will wait and see, but if the English see that Lowe in particular keeps his place, I would imagine Anthony Watson will be licking his lips. Surely someone somewhere could teach Lowe to tackle, and then he would be an international prospect, but as of now he has been partly, if not wholly, responsible for five tries (against us) so far, and should be released back to the comforting surrounds of playing with Leinster.

Staying with rugby…one thing I seldom do is read my emails, which of course means I don’t reply to a lot of them. However, by some quirk of fate, the other day I spotted one that came to me from Jim Keating, a former schoolmate of mine from my Roscrea days.

Jim told me that another lad from our year, Brian Grogan, had enquired as to whether or not I had been the scrum-half on the senior schools rugby team in our final year of 1968.

As it happened, I had been – which was quite remarkable in itself as I wasn’t really into rugby at that time. However, just as with the Junior Cup two years earlier, all the other available scrum-halves were injured. So as a last resort, I found myself elevated to playing in the Leinster senior schools competition, and we actually made it as far as the semi-final, where we were narrowly beaten by De La Salle, Churchtown.

Back in those days, Roscrea was known for rugby, hurling, and athletics. There was no Gaelic football team, which – having been brought up in Gaelic football country

– was sad for me. So it was natural for me to be drawn towards soccer, the game I’d predominantly played during my school days. In fact, my soccer team (the Creggs Thunderbolts) were school champions that same year of 1968.

Jim Keating was himself an All-Ireland schools champion Javelin thrower, a triumph which brought the whole school to a standstill when he was introduced with his winner’s medal to the entire school assembly.

My out-half on the rugby team was none other than former Labour Party leader and Tánaiste, Dick Spring, who went on to play for Munster and Ireland, and had a long, successful club career with both London Irish and Lansdowne. The funny thing about Roscrea, and the fact

ing beats me. I just wonder why the producers or directors couldn’t let our poor mothers enjoy their big day.

I always thought certain shows, like the Late Late and the morning breakfast ones, are there to entertain us and help us escape from reality, but I’m beginning to think I was wrong – they are really there to depress us.

Monday has always been regarded as the black day of the week, so why not run their sad stories then? God forbid some mothers might’ve actually been happy for one day, or have we reached the point that as far as the telly is concerned, we are not allowed to have any fun? Roll on the long summer evenings, when the telly can have a well deserved rest.

that there was no Gaelic football team there, was that the same Dick Spring also played underage football for Kerry, while Roscommon’s Tom Hunt also played inter-county football for his county. I often wonder, when you look at the top Gaelic football schools like St. Jarlath’s in Tuam, St. Brendan’s in Killarney, and St. Mel’s in Longford – among others – how would Roscrea have fared if Gaelic football had been on their programme? However, it wasn’t then and still isn’t now, so rugby, hurling and athletics still rule the roost.

I suppose I am grateful to have had the chance to play in a Schools Cup’ semi-final.

My immediate opponent that day was a lad called Aidan Anderson, who went on to quite a bit of success with Bective Rangers and Leinster, while my career continued in the same vein. I was never first choice for any club until there was an injury to their scrum-half. Dick O’Toole again propelled me up the list, and in 1973 I finally got first team rugby with Corinthians.

Anyway, it was good to hear from Jim, and while it’s a bit late for New Year resolutions, I have come up with mine at last – I am going to read all my emails from now on.

And finally…

Finally for this week, as we head into longer days and shorter nights, and with the start of the silage season soon approaching, a reader contacted me about an old bugbear of mine: the number of young lads we see driving huge tractors and trailers on our public roads. The reader wondered how strict the rules are about giving these lads’ licences.

Like me, he has no issue at all with lads of sixteen years of age being allowed to drive these massive vehicles that can go as fast as a lot of cars, but he wonders are they all properly trained to handle them. Do they all have to undergo specialist courses, as truck and bus drivers do? For all our sakes, I hope they do.

The road is a dangerous place at the best of times, but if one of these beasts was in the hands of a young, inexperienced driver, God help us if something went wrong.

Lastly, you may remember that a couple of weeks ago I wondered about the price increases in petrol and diesel.

At that stage, diesel had gone from €1.07 a litre to €1.27 since November. This morning, a friend of mine told me it is €1.37 a litre in Dublin. I just wonder where will it all end? And more importantly, am I the only one who cares?

‘Till next week, bye for now

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Pictured in their St. Patrick’s Day attire were Scoil Bhríde National School pupils Aoibhinn, Sophie, Darcey, Reece and Martin. Photograph by Mick McCormack.

Pictured are Rang 5 pupils at Gaelscoil de hÍde, Clara, Saoirse, Grace, Saoirse and Robyn.

Photograph by Mick McCormack

Pictured in green for St. Patrick’s Day were Scoil Bhríde National School pupils Tag, Ignas, Eoin and Adam. Photograph by Mick McCormack

All dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day were Scoil Bhríde National School pupils Ben, Georgia and Eloise. Photograph by Mick McCormack.

Pictured dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day was Gaelscoil de hÍde pupil, Olly O’Riain. Photograph by Mick McCormack

Pictured are Roxboro National School pupils Kate and Emily. Photograph

by Mick McCormack

Pictured dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day were Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils Masie, Niamh, Ciara, Ava, Hannah and Maria. Photograph by Mick McCormack Pictured are Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils Aisling, Sadhbh, Lillian, Megan, Coya, Saoirse, Simone and Aideen. Photograph by Mick McCormack

Pictured in green for St. Patrick’s Day were Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils Darcy, Eve, Sophie, Macie and Niamh. Photograph by Mick McCormack

Pictured on the playground are Roxboro National School pupils. Photograph by Mick McCormack

14

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Why is the onus on women to stay safe?

A survey undertaken by The National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence has revealed that ‘one in three women – (33%) – has experienced physical and/or sexual violence since she was 15 years old’.

My reason for mentioning this comes on foot of a conversation regarding the tragic death of Sarah Everard, who vanished in the UK while walking home from a pal’s house, and whose remains were sadly discovered in an area of woodland.

This tragedy has, once again, raised the issue of the dangers we women face when out walking, jogging, socialising or shopping alone, etc. It also highlights the measures we

go to in order to avoid being attacked. Wayne Couzens, a British Metropolitan Police Officer, has been charged with kidnapping and murder in relation to Sarah’s horrific death.

As women, we’re used to being harassed both in private and in public places. Only last Friday while in town, a gentleman, upon seeing me parallel park my car, felt the need to animatedly direct me into the space, barking orders so loudly, everyone in the ATM queue could hear. I ignored him and parked, but decided to acknowledge him by thanking him for his ‘help’, saying: “Cheers, fair play, I think I’m okay now”.

However, Mr. Misogynist – unable to cope with the fact

that me and what he saw as my ‘inferior’ female genitalia could park without needing direction from his, ahem, ‘far superior’ male genitalia, removed his mask and abusively spat out the extremely derogatory and homophobic term, “stupid dyke” at me.

What a prince.

I wasn’t scared of this obnoxious clown, however his aggressive and plainly homophobic behaviour when addressing/approaching any woman – whether straight or gay – infuriated me. You understand, ladies, I couldn’t let this go, I kept my face firmly on screen-saver mode and in a loud voice, exclaimed: “One hundred thousand sperm… and you were the fastest? Ya gobs***e”!

When discussing this incident with a friend, she said she would have felt ‘extremely spooked’ if this had happened to her. And as if I needed a reminder of how heavily the threat of violence hangs over women, my friend revealed that whenever she enters an underground car park, she holds her car keys between her fingers, because in the event she’s ‘jumped from behind’, she would be able to use them as a weapon of self-defence.

Why is it ladies, that while embarking on such a simple, everyday task as going to our cars – or in my case, parking my car – we are open to the fear of being attacked/abused? Why is it that while young girls, we’re

conditioned to be more fearful than boys? Why are we viewed as being more fragile and less capable of taking care of ourselves?

As we age, that very notion of feeling feeble and weak solidifies in our psyches to such an extent that it manifests into an allencompassing terror, leading us to watch what we wear, mind how much alcohol we drink, and modify our behaviours so as not to attract ‘unwanted’ attention.

If we’re out, we’re expected to constantly ‘check in’ with partners/families/friends. To an extent, the onus is placed on us to protect ourselves from the increasingly present possibility we’ll fall prey to an attacker.

Why is it that, when going for walks, we feel the need to choose our routes based on how isolated they might be?

Why is it that we are advised to always ‘stick’ to well-lit areas? Why is it that we’re always wary of any man who walks behind us, towards us, or who passes in front of us?

And why is it that if we are attacked, instead of society seeing this as a violation of our right to be in any place at any time and not be harmed by another individual, it instead places the focus firmly on our own culpability… why were you out alone? What were you wearing? Society must stop implying that attacks on women will end if we, as women, take more precautions. It is not our fault.

We’re in for a week of high drama Last Sunday was not only Mother’s Day, it was also a day of two significant ‘breaking news’ stories, both of which were guaranteed to deliver moments of high drama in the national broadcaster’s ‘current affairs’ department. I can just picture George Lee’s impish grin at the prospect of delivering more worstcase doomsday scenarios to the nation! You go, George!

First, we had the curious case of Leo and ‘that’ leak, with An Garda Síochána now upgrading their initial inquiries into our Tánaiste’s leaking of a ‘confidential document to a friend’ into a full-on investigation. Good for them, nobody’s above the law.

Then came the news that, acting on a ‘precautionary principle’, the National Im-

Tanaiste Leo Varadkar

munisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) recommended we temporarily suspend the AstraZeneca vaccine on foot of a number of incidents of serious blood clotting events in adults following their jabs.

Now personally, I couldn’t give a fizz about a former Taoiseach who seems to view being handsome as such a burden that in order to ensure not just ‘the early risers’ but the slackers took him seriously, he drew references from popular culture when responding to our first, now historical, lockdown. For the record, Leo – in what I’d call an air of pained geniality – has apologised over the ‘leaking’ affair, and while it’s likely he has committed no offence, it’s now in the hands of the Gardaí.

But I digress. I’m more concerned about the latest vaccine issue for the simple reason that along with being embroiled in a supply cockup, with doubts around its efficacy in the over 65s, we’ve now been dealt this major blow regarding what is a very serious health concern. I’d imagine the recipients of the 109,000 doses already administered in this country (some of whom are people I know) must be feeling pretty anxious – and who could blame them? I hope they can bear in mind that over 17 million people worldwide have received this particular vaccine without experiencing any problems or setbacks whatsoever.

Piers Morgan and Alex Beresford

We are all entitled to our honestly held opinions!

Love him or loath him, but when he’s on our screens, Piers Morgan is usually TV gold; I would’ve liked to have had him as a guest back when I worked on RTE’s The Afternoon Show.

However, I have to say that the sight of Morgan, a grown man, marching off during a live TV broadcast and essentially behaving like a spoiled brat, was more laughable than it was credible.

Mind you, I wholeheartedly agree with his view that we’re all entitled to voice our own honestly held opinions – and he is someone who’s paid to voice theirs. That said, it must surely wound Morgan’s massive ego to know that his arch-enemy – the woman he has ‘thrashed’ – Meghan Markle,

had a starring, albeit minor role, in his departure from a well-paid job at Good Morning Britain!

Apparently the Duchess of Sussex (does she still hold the title?), along with 41,000 others, made a ‘formal complaint to Ofcom’ over Morgan’s comments. According to Sky.news.com, a YouGov survey suggests that as a result of the Sussexes’ tell-all interview, the pair’s popularity ‘has fallen to its lowest level’. Of course it has… I mean, a pair of millionaires bellyaching to a billionaire about how tough life is – during a pandemic when people are dying and others are losing their livelihoods – was never going to fly, now was it?

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Oscar nomination for Boyle native’s ‘Cartoon Saloon’ Winners of the 93rd Academy Awards are set to be announced on April 25th of this year and once again there will be some Roscommon interest as Irish movie ‘Wolfwalkers’ by Cartoon Saloon has been nominated for Best Animated Feature.

The Kilkenny-based animation company was co-founded by Boyle native Paul Young and is no stranger to the Oscars, having been nominated four times previously.

‘Mank’ is leading the way this year for Oscar nominations, with ten. The Netflix film is up for best picture along with seven others including ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’, ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Nomadland’. The ceremony will take place on the 25th of April.

Roscommon schools reminder: Texaco Children’s Art Competition Roscommon teachers in primary and second level schools, whose pupils take part in the annual Texaco Children’s Art Competition, are reminded that the closing date for receipt of entries this year is Wednesday, March 24th.

Last year, almost 400 pupils from schools in Co. Roscommon submitted entries to the competition. Now in its 67th year, the Texaco Children’s Art Competition is widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland.

TAKE A BREAK The column that smiles through lockdown!

Talking horses: a reader’s update!

Circular Road, Roscommon

“

Rare Ould Times: Dubliner Gerry Carroll pictured having a coffee break recently on The Square in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

The things people say…

“Absolutely incredible – I’m speechless to be honest” – Rachael Blackmore, after she made history as the first female jockey to win the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham (with Honeysuckle, on Tuesday)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO… Famous birthdays today (March 18 2021)

Dear Editor, I enjoyed the pic of the week – captioned ‘Talking Horse Sense’ – in last week’s Roscommon People. It reminded me of a joke that I would like to share with your readers.

A young fella had bought his first car, and decided he would take his first spin in the countryside. He was miles from nowhere, on a desolate bóthar, when the engines conked out. He got out and lifted the bonnet.

He might as well have been looking into a bush – he hadn’t a clue. Then he heard a voice from behind a hedge.

All he could see was a black horse with a brown horse beside him. It was the black horse who spoke: “Will you let me have a look?”

The young fella moved, and the black horse scrutinised the engine, and spoke again: “I can see your trouble, your distributor cap is loose. Just snap it back on and you’ll be grand”.

The young fella did what he was told, switched the ignition on and the engine started first time. He thanked the black horse and drove off.

However, he was unnerved by the entire experience.

A talking horse… what he needed was a stiff drink and a chat with a local. He had driven a short distance when he came upon a wayside pub. He parked his car and went in.

The place was desolate, with no one in attendance, so he knocked on the counter. An elderly man appeared, and he ordered a large whiskey. Knocking back the whiskey, he took up the courage to relate his story to the elderly barman.

The barman patiently heard him out, before asking the question: “You say there was two horses looking over the hedge?”

The young man, relieved that he had been given a

Queen Latifah (musician/actress, 51)

Lily Collins (actress, 32)

Adam Levine (singer, 42)

#RoscommonPeopleTogether hearing, replied: “Yes, there were. A black one and a brown one, but the black one did all the talking”.

The elderly man looked strangely at the young fella, and after some deliberation, he made his announcement: “You were lucky that you spoke to the black one. That brown horse knows nothing about cars!”

Yours sincerely, John Kerrigan

* Celebrating Roscommon mothers

* On being Irish…

Check out our latest video on Roscommon People YouTube channel

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Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

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Revamped Department TV ad needs backing Reacting to the Department of Agriculture’s launch of its re-worked TV ad from the 1980s on sheep worrying, IFA Sheep Chairman Sean Dennehy said that while it is a welcome first step, the Minister for Agriculture must provide funding to drive awareness of the advert.

He said: “IFA has been campaigning to #BringBackBonzo since 2019. The new advert is excellent, but it’s disappointing that there’s no reference to a budget to ensure that the public will see the advert.

“It’s the equivalent of giving someone a brand new car, with an empty tank of petrol, which is pointless”.

The original TV advert, which ran in the 1980s, was shown on primetime television.

“While we all know viewing habits have changed, at the very least, we would expect a budget for an effective digital media campaign. I would appeal to the Minister not to waste the good work already done in restoring this ad.

He must fund this campaign to ensure it has impact,” said the IFA Sheep Chairman.

Sean Dennehy said the lack of ambition around the revamped ad is indicative of the overall approach to dog attacks.

“We need serious resources and effective enforcement if we are going to tackle this issue,” he said.

Kerry price scheme ‘benchmark’ for other Co-ops – ICMSA

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The Chairperson of ICMSA’s Dairy Committee, Gerald Quain, has described the latest forward price scheme offering by Kerry Co-op as extremely encouraging.

Mr. Quain said it was a ‘vote of confidence’ in dairy prospects through peak production and into Q3. Noting that the Kerry scheme offers a base of 34.8cpl at 3.3% protein and 3.6% fat for milk between March and October this year, Mr. Quain said the offer effectively supported ICMSA’s calls for February milk prices increases and showed that 34cpl is a very realistic target for the remaining milk pool outside the ring-fenced forward price.

“This forward price scheme is one of the highest offerings in terms of fixed contracts to dairy farmers in Ireland and sets the standard for where fixed contracts will need to go in the future,” he said.

“Irish dairy farms don’t need to see milk price hitting a plateau that results in the real value or purchasing power of their income diminishing against surging input costs.

“What’s required is a milk price that increases steadily in line with the wider economy and always ahead of inputs. This offering by Kerry is the benchmark for other co-ops and processors”, concluded Mr. Quain.

‘Don’t leave BPS application to last minute!’ < BY PHILIP O’CONNOR, HEAD OF FARM SUPPORT AT IFAC

While Covid-19 and the vaccine rollout continue to dominate the headlines, Department of Agriculture deadlines still have to be met. The 17th of May is one of the most important dates for farmers in the farming year.

This is the deadline for declaring the land you are farming in 2021 and therefore receiving your Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) monies between October and December.

BPS is crucial to the financial viability of a lot of farms in Ireland. It can be an incredibly stressful time for farmers if this application is incorrect and monies are withheld. The following are some basic questions farmers should be asking themselves and

their agri advisors before submitting their applications: 1. Am I farming more/less land than last year?

2. Am I leasing in/out land that wasn’t previously on an application?

3. If leasing in/out new land have I leased in/out the BPS correctly with this land?

4. Have you bought/sold/ inherited/gifted land in the last year – have I transferred in BPS correctly?

5. Have I declared all of the land I am farming correctly on my BPS application?

6. Have I changed the farming structure – Limited Company, Registered Farm Partnership, joint herd number?

If so, I must transfer BPS to the new structure – always seek your accountant’s advice on

how to transfer BPS, so as not to inadvertently incur taxes.

Finally, have I declared all of the land correctly in the name of the new business structure?

The best advice I can give farmers at this time is as follows: Employ a good agri advisor to help you complete your application. This is money well spent considering the importance of the payment to the financial wellbeing of the farm.

If transferring BPS to a new entity (LTD, partnership, joint herd, family member, etc.) please ensure that both your accountant and agri advisor are aware of what’s happening.

One of the most common mistakes with farmers changing business structure is neither accountant nor agri advisor is aware of what each one is

applying for. This can have very serious impacts with both Revenue and the Department of Agriculture and could result in significant taxes and losses in BPS if completed incorrectly.

Give yourself time – do not leave this application until the last minute and complete it on the 17th of May. With ifac, it is standard practice that we consult with our members’ Agri advisors in times of change in the farm to ensure that BPS is not jeopardised in any way, and also ensure no undue taxes are incurred in the change.

This year the Department of Agriculture require all applications to be made online and it is running a nationwide helpline to assist farmers in this regard.

Refer to www.gov.ie for more information.

Vótáil

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING Independent TD Denis Naughten.

Eugene

Murphy

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland

17

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

Eugene Murphy No 2: Orla Leyden

Senator AnMurphy Ireland Eugene for all As your government representative I am delighted to Constituency Offices:

Elphin Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon  071 963 3000

in er for farmers to delivTown be ableRoscommon Co. Galway Co. Roscommon  087 435 3834 Roscommon and Galway Market Square,

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Naughten slams Minister’s approach to power stations Independent TD Denis Naughten has criticised the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan this week for his ‘hands off’ approach to the potential future use of the Lanesboro and Shannonbridge power stations.

Deputy Naughten was speaking after questioning the Minister in the Dáil on Thursday last.

Deputy Naughten said that TDs were told a month ago that a review headed by the ESB to look

at alternative uses of the two power plants is recommending the demolition of both buildings.

This was in spite of the fact that both plants have ten years of operation remaining.

“While Minister Ryan failed to acknowledge this fact, it is clear from his admission in the Dáil that international consultants are being brought in to confirm the conclusions of the demolition report in order to provide him with political cover when it is

formally published,” Deputy Naughten said.

“He did however admit that there will be investment in electricity grid management at both sites which will have to be paid for by electricity customers, and this is a direct result of having to replace the grid stability provided by these two power stations.

“Again, hard pressed families struggling to pay electricity bills will be footing the bill for the

MII claims on prices don’t add up - IFA IFA President Tim Cullinan has rejected claims by MII around beef prices.

“At an IFA online Beef meeting, farmers highlighted the fact that the Irish price is now 13c behind the Bord Bia beef price tracker, which is based on a weighted composite price in our main export markets,” he said.

“This exposes the fact that factories were short-changing farmers”.

Tim Cullinan said despite the claims of MII, Grant Thornton informed the Task Force that it doesn’t have the authority to

access the information needed to provide a detailed appraisal of the value of Irish beef from the farm to the consumer.

He said the draft report by Grant Thornton fails to provide the details on the value of Irish beef throughout the chain because of these constraints.

“Minister McConalogue outlined the importance of greater transparency in the supply chain and he must now come forward with the primary legislation that allows the Office of the Food Ombudsman/Regulator provide this information,” he said.

IFA Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden said farmers also expressed disbelief that the EU Commission were planning to proceed with the Mercosur deal with South American countries.

“It is unbelievable that following Brexit, we are looking at allowing more beef into the EU market to further undermine Irish and EU farmers,” he said.

“We will be meeting the Tanaiste and Minister for Trade Leo Varadkar shortly to put the strongest message across that the Irish Government must oppose the deal”.

demolition of the power stations and the replacement technology.

“We have seen the mistakes that were made in the past with the demolition of our two sugar plants in Mallow and Carlow, which I argued against at the time. Do not let us repeat the mistakes we made in our sugar industry. Do not let these power plants be demolished until all possible alternatives have been fully explored,” Deputy Naughten concluded.

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18

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

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IFA President Tim Cullinan has welcomed the six-month extension by the UK in the introduction of new import controls on agri-food and other products from Ireland and other EU countries, saying: “the announcement provides a major breathing space for Irish agri-food exporters who are preparing for the new requirements”.

Mr. Cullinan said: “This six-month extension provides much-needed market stability over the coming months and will be welcomed by farmers and processors alike”.

In the absence of this extension, exporters were facing from 1st April, a substantial ramping up of the regulatory burden on trade with new SPS con-

trols on virtually all food exports to GB involving the Irish Department of Agriculture issuing of an additional 5,000 health certificates per week, which represents a tenfold increase.

These controls will not now apply until October 1st, which gives exporters six months extra time to meet the new requirements.

The IFA President welcomed the news, which came as he addressed the Northern Ireland Committee of the House of Commons today. At the meeting, MPs recognised the high quality of Irish food on the British market, particularly Irish beef, and the need to maintain the highest food standards on the UK market.

IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins.

IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has called on the Minister of Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, to ensure that applicants for Tranche 20 of TAMS receive their approval without further delay.

The applications closed on January 15th and the approval process is far too slow.

Farmers must obtain TAMS approval to allow them commence work on farms without further delay.

“All Tranche 20 applicants, including the applicants carried over from

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In his address, Tim Cullinan emphasised that the Northern Ireland Protocol was regarded as extremely important in maintain-

ing the free flow of live animals and agricultural products across the border.

“It’s vitally important in maintaining the all-island

economy in the agri-food sector, which is particularly integrated in the border counties across all farming sectors,” he said.

TAMS approvals ‘must be issued without delay’

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IFA President Tim Cullinan

previous tranches, must receive approval. IFA is urging the Minister to ensure that the delays in previous tranches are addressed. The problem with delays will continue unless the carryover is resolved. This issue must be rectified to avoid on-farm investment plans stalling,” he said.

Mr. Biggins pointed out that only 70% of applicants have been approved for the last two tranches.

Unsuccessful applicants have been carried forward, leaving them facing uncertain situations concerning

their investments.

“I am calling on the Minister for Agriculture to clarify that there will be at least three more tranches in 2021 and that the next TAMS tranche will open for applications immediately after Tranche 21 closes on April 16th. There must be no gap between the closing of one tranche and the opening of another,” he said.

Over €270 million has been paid to 19,200 applicants to date, and a further €80 million was announced in the Budget for TAMS.

CP Ajax to host virtual fundraising raffle!

CP Ajax Football Club are holding a fundraising raffle which will be held virtually on Easter Sunday, April 4th. To purchase tickets at €25 per ticket, please email cpajaxfc@gmail. com or phone a committee member

and the link for payment will be sent to you.

For this and other information, please contact Martin Connolly 086-2341041 or Karen and Declan Kilkenny 087-9696282.

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

Learn to drive with

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

Famous Five!

Farmer Liam Tansey has been working hard on the farm in Ballyforan to make sure his first set of quintuplets is well looked after! Thanks to Brian Tansey for this great picture.

19

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

BNM betraying ordinary people with latest move – Fitzmaurice Bord na Móna is betraying ordinary people who have loyally taken plots of turf on their bogs down through the years

with its latest move to prevent the practice this year, according to independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Ahead of a reported announcement and public notices in regional publications this week, the representative for the Roscommon-Galway constituency noted that BNM is being “totally disingenuous”.

“I am led to believe that they are leading with the statistic that seven out of ten people won’t be affected, as a result of having turbary rights. But the reality of the situation is that has nothing got to do with it.

“If you look at the bogs affected, up to 4,000 households in the midlands will be left high and dry by Bord na Móna’s decision. These are loyal, ordinary people who take a plot of turf in order to heat their homes in the winter.

“That is being ripped from their grasp. The timing of this looming announcement is yet another indicator of BNM’s

disdain for these ordinary people – many of whom are elderly – with the turf cutting season set to start in the next two weeks.

“BNM’s spin doctors are trying to make light of the number of people who will be impacted by this move”.

Deputy Fitzmaurice said that those who take plots of turf depend on it as their only source of fuel.

“Everyone is talking about a just transition, since BNM started pushing their ‘Brown to Green’ agenda. But since they were handed over €100 million, it is clear that all BNM and Tom Donnellan are interested in is turning their backs on the cultures and traditions from which the company originally grew.

“Are the deputies from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael going to allow their parties stand idly by while BNM treats their constituents like this?

“People across parts of Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath, Offaly, Tipperary, Laois, Kildare and Meath will feel the brunt of this decision,” he said.

“I am calling for BNM officials to have a conversation with me publicly over the systems they have run in recent years, even though the same case law was in place then as now.

“But people need to be prepared to stand up for their rights to cut turf to burn in their own fire in their own home. These people do not need to look deep into the past either for inspiration.

People were prepared to stand up for their rights then, and now should be no different “This Government must be willing to intervene and stand alongside these people, otherwise they will be abandoning them yet again,” Deputy Fitzmuarice concluded.

Martin Connolly

Milltown Castleplunkett Co. Roscommon

Telephone: (094) 9651160 (086) 2341041 Precision Chop Silage, Slurry Spreading, etc.

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

Michael

Fitzmaurice TD Mobile:

086 1914565

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Irish Water: No exceedances for pesticides in local supply There were no exceedances for pesticides in the public drinking water supplies in County Roscommon in 2019 and 2020, Irish Water has confirmed. However, the utility is urging domestic gardeners, farmers, grounds keepers and other users of pesticide products to consider the environment and whether pesticide use is necessary in the first place.

MCPA is an active substance present in many commonly used herbicide products used to control the growth of thistles, docks and rushes and remains the most commonly detected pesticide in Ireland. However, it often ends up in drinking water supplies.

Working in partnership with a range of organisations involved in the National Pesticides and Drinking Water Action Group (NPDWAG), Irish Water is asking the farming community, greens keepers, grounds keepers, and domestic users, to consider in each case whether they need to use pesticides at all.

Minimising pesticide use not only helps to protect water quality but also has wider environmental benefits.

Dr. Pat O’Sullivan (Irish Water’s Regional Drinking Water Compliance Specialist) said: “While our consultation with the HSE has concluded that the levels of pesticides being detected in drinking water supplies across the country

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training & mentoring for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849 do not represent a threat to public health, it is however undesirable and therefore imperative that users of pesticides are mindful of best practice when using herbicides or pesticides and seek out alternatives”.

If pesticides have to be used, the basic steps to reduce risks to drinking water sources and the aquatic environment are as follows: Choose the right pesticide product (note that products containing MCPA are not approved for use in weed-wipers.) Read and follow

the product label. Determine the right amount to purchase and use. Don’t use pesticides if rain is forecast in the next 48 hours.

Make sure you are aware of the location of all nearby watercourses. Comply with any buffer zone specified on the product label to protect the aquatic environment.

Mark out the specified buffer zone from the edge of the river, lake or other watercourse and drainage ditches Avoid spills, stay well back from open drains and rinse empty containers times times into the

sprayer. Store and dispose of pesticides and their containers properly. Never fill a sprayer directly from a watercourse.

A video on the best practice use and application of products containing MCPA can be viewed on Irish Water’s YouTube channel.

Information leaflets on pesticide use are also available to download from the Teagasc website.

A guide providing ten easy steps towards responsible pesticide use in public and amenity and garden areas is also available on the Department of Agriculture website.

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

Dead & Worn -Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

20

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Senator Murphy urges farmers to apply for BEEP Suckler Scheme Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has advised farmers that the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme – Sucklers (BEEP–S) under the new Beef Sector Efficiency Pilot opened on Tuesday. Applications for the scheme can be lodged through agfood.ie with the closing date on Monday, April 26th.

The scheme has a funding provision of €40 million in 2021 and targets the weaning efficiency of suckler cows and calves by measuring the live weight of the calf at weaning as a percentage of the cow’s live weight.

“I welcome the fact that Minister McConalogue has opened the new €40million BEEP scheme,” said Senator Murphy.

“The scheme was very successful in 2020, and to date, €40.46 million has been paid out to 24,430 farmers”.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy.

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

Covid 19 Level 5 – Mart Restrictions

Under BEEP–S, participants may be eligible for up to €90 for the first ten suckler cow/calf pairs per herd and up to €80 per pair thereafter subject to an overall maximum of 100 pairs per herd, if all actions under the scheme are applied for and completed in full in accordance with the scheme terms and conditions.

“I must commend my Fianna Fáil colleague Minister McConalogue as this is the latest in a line of support that he has rolled out for our suckler and beef farmers.

“Indeed Fianna Fáil secured €85 million in Budget 2021 for a range of measures to support sustainable suckler and beef farming. We produce top world class grass-fed beef and this Government is committed to supporting the sector,” said Senator Murphy.

All sales shall be ONLINE ONLY on our LSL App Buyers must register to view stock prior to sale. Sellers must drop off their livestock and leave. Animals will be sold subject and Sellers will be informed of their prices by telephone.

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

Friday, March 19th at 11 a.m.

Mid Spring Special Sale of Heifers 70 pens of Heifers on offer Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ----------------------

Friday, March 26th at 11 a.m.

ICMSA: Restrictions on sustainable dairy ‘hugely disappointing’ Speaking following a meeting with Glanbia Ireland on its proposed peak management scheme, the President of ICMSA Pat McCormack said that it is hugely disappointing that an Irish processor has been forced to introduce such a scheme through no fault of its own.

Mr. McCormack said that while the impression by some is that Irish dairy is based on a factory-scale operation, the reality is that Irish dairy is

dominated by real family farm operations, producing milk sustainably off grass in a way that economically ‘backbones’ the rural communities involved.

“The proposed restriction at peak will actually undermine our efforts in delivering greater sustainability,” he said.

“It is now essential that our Government acknowledge the importance of milk production to the rural dairying communities and the wider national economy, and puts in place

a policy that allows dairy to continue to develop sustainably without being tied up in legal disputes.

“The attacks on dairy have gone on for far too long and it is time that our Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine and our Government robustly defended the sector and allowed for its future development”.

The ICMSA President said the Glanbia peak management proposal will create serious difficulties for many farmers, and

Castlerea MART WATCH Despite the recent inclement weather conditions, trade held up very well for all categories of stock with good numbers of additional buyers trying to source stock for further feeding.

The bullock and heifer rings reported good clearances with the bullocks peaking at €2.65 a kilo and heifers peaking €2.86 a kilo. The dry cows trade remains very strong also with cows reaching €1,980 or €2.22 a kilo.

The weanlings continue to grown in price as more farmer activity has led to price increases while the calf trade was very good this week with better quality calves on offer. Breeding stock numbers continue to grow with the better quality lots commanding some fancy prices.

Cows with calves at foot made from €760 to €1,780. Springers made from €880 to €1,460 per head. Friesian bulls made from €30 to €170 and Hereford and Angus cross calves made from €190 to €300 with better quality lots on offer this week. Runners made up to €800 for continental lots.

Sales continue today (Thursday) with

our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

All sales commence at 11 am with three rings in operation. Covid-19 level five restrictions remain in place.

Sample prices for bullocks: Ch 495kgs €1260, Ch 460kgs €1210, Ch 520kgs €1380, Lm 515kgs €1320, Ch 580kgs €1460, AA 575kgs €1300, Ch 605kgs €1540, AA 635kgs €1460, Lm 565kgs €1440.

Heifers: Ch 405kgs €1000, AA 395kgs €960, Lm 475kgs €1310, Lm 450kgs €1290, Ch 485kgs €1270, Ch 665kgs €1590, Lm 540kgs €1490, BA 595kgs €1460.

Dry cows: Sim 825kgs €1620, Lm 750kgs €1580, Ch 805kgs €1570, Sh 495kgs €890, Ch 890kgs €1980, AA 700kgs €1340.

Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs €880, Lm 280kgs €840, Lm 245kgs €820, Lm 465kgs €1350, Ch 435kgs €1180, Lm 440kgs €1110, Ch 350kgs €1090.

Weanling heifers: Lm 285kgs €890, Ch 240kgs €840, Lm 260kgs €840, Lm 330kgs €1420, Lm 330kgs €1210, Lm 345kgs €1040, BBx 295kgs €890.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

it is essential that each individual supplier is provided with details of the actual implications as soon as possible.

“This must only be a temporary measure, and the necessary capacity should be put in place as soon as possible. Future Government policy will be critical: they either decide to allow family farms to expand sustainably, or they shut us down, with catastrophic implications for our rural and national economies,” he concluded.

Roscommon MART WATCH There were good numbers of excellent quality stock on offer at our sale on Friday, March 12th, with a brisk trade and more customers anxious for stock resulting in a high percentage of lots sold.

Bullocks averaged from €2.39 per kilo up to €2.74 per kilo, but heifer numbers were small due to this week’s special sale. Prices ranged from an average of €2.52 per kilo up to €2.84, and dry cows fetched from an average of €1.83 per kilo up to €2.33 per kilo.

This Friday (19th), we will have our special sale of heifers as well as a general sale of bullocks and dry cows.

On Friday, March 26th, we will have our special sale of bullocks and breeding heifers. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm on Monday, March 22nd. Please note that all customers must wear a facemask or a face covering.

Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 815kgs €1870, Lim X 780kgs €1820, Char X 910kgs €1750, Lim X 800kgs €1740, Lim X 800kgs €1670, AAX 840kgs €1640, Lim X 780kgs €1560, Char X 610kgs €1250, Char X 715kgs €1360, Lim X 780kgs €1560, Char X 665kgs €1460.

Heifers: Char X 495kgs €1180, Char X 435kgs €1150, Char 405kgs €1090, Char X 380kgs €1080, Char X 420kgs €980, Char X 390kgs €920, Lim X 385kgs €890, and Char X 305kgs €820.

Bullocks: Char X 840kgs €1910, Lim X 755kgs €1800, Char X 825kgs €1770, Char X 765kgs €1760, Lim x 720kgs €1690, 4 Char X 691kgs €1670, AAX 745kgs €1620, AAX 705kgs €1600, 2 Char X 612kgs €1650, 3 Char X 596kgs €1630, 2 Char X 575kgs €1500, 5 Char X 551kgs €1440, Char X 530kgs €1410, Char X 490kgs €1310, Lim 515kgs €1350, 5 AAX 536kgs €1270, 2 AAX 477kgs €1200, Lim X 425kgs €1110.

Springtime Special Sale of Bullocks – Also Special Sale for Breeding Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, March 22nd ----------------------

Friday, March 26th at 11 a.m.

Special Sale for Breeding Heifers Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, March 22nd ----------------------

No Sale Friday April 2nd – Good Friday ----------------------

Tuesday, March 23rd at 4 p.m.

Weanlings & Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday March 18th ----------------------

Lambs, Cast Ewes, In Lamb Ewes & Ewes with Lambs at foot Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

--------------------Saturday, March 20th at 12 Noon

Irish Simmental Premier Sale 49 bulls and 22 Heifers on offer Viewing between 9am & 12 noon By appointment Call 0579324577

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

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21

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

NewsPeople

Vaccination centre expected in coming days!

Murphy: ‘Roll-out remains on track despite delays’ < DAN DOONER

The Roscommon vaccination centre is expected to be up and running by early next week following delays caused by the suspension of the AstraZeneca vaccine last Sunday due to blood clot fears.

The vaccination centre at The Abbey Hotel in Roscommon town was due to open this week, but no confirmation has yet been forthcoming from the HSE. The HSE had earlier advised the public not to attend for an appointment for the AstraZeneca jab until

further information was available about the resumption of its roll out. The European Medicines Agency is now expected to give the go ahead for its resumption by the end of this week.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy insists the recent deferral of the AstraZeneca vaccine will not throw the entire vaccination programme off track.

“The decision to suspend the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine over safety concerns in relation to blood clots has obviously caused huge concern amongst the public but I would reassure people that

the vaccination programme will stay on track. I would be confident that there will be plenty of vaccines available by the summer and we are still on schedule in that regard,” he said.

The Fianna Fáil Senator urged members of the public to stay the course and to continue to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

“I would be hopeful that construction will re-open in April and consideration will be given to relaxing the 5km travel restrictions and I would also be hopeful that some level of sports training could also resume,” he said.

The Fianna Fáil Senator was also highly critical of the large gathering which had been witnessed at a funeral in Carrick-on-Shannonin recent days.

“There can’t be one rule for some members of society and another rule for others - we all need to be in this together and stay the course”.

Senator Murphy noted however that he would like to see the numbers attending funerals being increased to 25 as he said it was very difficult for grieving families to “pick and choose who could attend a small funeral”.

Campaign to stop 20% cut in new doctor posts < DAN DOONER

Lynda Hanley pictured receiving her first Covid-19 vaccine from Nurse Drury at The Clinic in Ballaghaderreen. Photograph: Mick McCormack

HSE plans to cut 20% of newly-qualified doctors will have a devastating effect on the Irish healthcare system, according to a group of doctors intent on overturning the decision.

Spokesperson for the ‘Keep Our Doctors’ campaign, Dr. Cormac Duff, a group which is campaigning for the retention of junior doctors, has said graduates will be forced to leave Ireland if the cuts go ahead this year.

“In July, Roscommon University Hospital will lose one of its current five intern doctors. Sligo will lose a further four doctors and Galway will axe fifteen.

“Last year, as the Covid-19 pandemic emerged, 350 additional intern jobs were created, allowing every graduating doctor the chance to stay and work in Ireland.

“This year, as the pandemic and resultant health crisis continues, the decision has been made not to offer the additional jobs to the 2021 cohort of interns. As a result of this decision, the vast majority of international graduating doctors will be forced to leave Ireland to work as doctors”.

Dr. Duff said the Irish health service would be left even more understaffed than it is currently and that most importantly, patients would suffer.

He said the group was now calling on Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to reverse the decision and allow hundreds of doctors to stay in Ireland and continue to serve the country.

The ‘Keep Our Doctors’ campaign has already received widespread support nationally, with over 4,000 signatures in one week alone.

Speeding concerns on Castleplunkett road < DAN DOONER

Independent Cllr. Anthony Waldron has said speeding has become a major problem on the Castlerea to Castleplunkett road and something must be done in order to prevent a tragedy.

“I have been approached by a number of concerned residents in recent weeks who are extremely

concerned by the excessive speeds on the Castlerea to Castleplunkett road.

“One resident told me he would never walk the road again after a recent experience and expressed his fear that a tragic accident would occur if something isn’t done.

“Another resident told me a family pet had been killed on the

road by a speeding car and that it was a miracle the owner wasn’t injured or killed too while out walking.

“Motorists are travelling at motorway speeds along the stretch of road between Lavin’s Shop and Castleplunkett, which has a 80kmph speed limit,” he said.

Cllr. Waldron said he would be raising the issue at next week’s

monthly meeting of Roscommon County Council in the hope that something could be done as soon as possible.

“Whether it’s flashing signs or some other form of speed restriction, something has to happen soon. We’ve had tragic accidents on other roads in the locality in the past and we do not want a repeat of that here,” he said.

Time for action to save post offices!

Local TDs have this week called for action to prevent the closure of local post offices and safeguard the service into the future.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said that her party backs the postmasters’ call for a Public Service Obligation to be introduced to secure the

future of the network.

Deputy Kerrane said post offices were a crucial service in rural Ireland and that financial and Government services must be increased as per the 2016 Kerr Report.

“The Irish Postmasters’ Union say that the day of reckoning has arrived and

if funding is not provided before the summer, significant closures will follow.

“This commitment must now be delivered upon, before the post office’s transformation payments end this June,” she said.

Meanwhile, Independent TD Denis Naughten has questioned the Govern-

ment’s commitment to saving the network.

“Why is support for our post offices always just one more report away from action? This week the Government announced the establishment of an inter-departmental group to examine the feasibility of directing

more Government business to the post office network.

“So, we have now gone from the provision of services in 2018 to a situation now where in 2021 the Government is looking at the ‘feasibility of directing services to Post Offices’”.

newsbriefs Flood victims to meet with European Commission Roscommon residents whose homes and farmyards are threatened with flooding from Lough Funshinagh will meet with representatives from the European Commission this week.

The online meeting, which was facilitated by MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, will take place tomorrow morning (Friday).

A group of residents will meet with representatives of the Director General for the Environment, which is the department responsible for EU policy on the environment.

MEP Flanagan will also attend the meeting in the hope that a short-term solution can be found in order to save homes which are in imminent danger close to the expanding lough.

A spokesperson for the residents’ group has said they are pleased that the meeting is taking place and remain hopeful that a solution to the dire situation can be found.

Funding for five local schools Five local schools have recently received funding with two being given approval for additional accommodation and three getting the go ahead for emergency works.

Independent TD Denis Naughten welcomed the news: “Over the last three months two local schools have been approved funding for additional classrooms while a further three schools have received funding for improvement works,” he said.

St. Nathy’s College in Ballaghaderreen and Carrick National School have secured funding for additional classrooms while Roscommon Community College has received funding for fire safety works. SN Cill Ronain has also secured funding for roof works and mechanical works will be carried out at St. Bride’s NS in Ballintubber.

Centenarians to receive a letter from the Cathaoirleach?

Independent Cllr. Anthony Waldron has said he intends to put forward a motion at next week’s monthly meeting of Roscommon County Council proposing that Roscommon residents who reach the age of 100 receive a letter from the local authority to mark the milestone.

Cllr. Waldron said he would also request that the motion be circulated to other County Councils and that the situation would be reviewed after the Covid-19 lockdown whereby it might also be possible for centenarians to receive a visit from the Cathaoirleach.

Local groups can apply for climate action grants The Community Foundation for Ireland in a match funding partnership with The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have launched a grant scheme for eligible local groups in Roscommon.

Minister of State and local Fine Gael TD, Frank Feighan, has said that €100,000 in funding was provided through 29 grants last year.

The grants are available in two strands including Building Awareness Grants of up to €3,000, which help groups to design and implement online campaigns, and Sustaining Sustainability Grants of up to €10,000.

Full details including application process are at www. communityfoundation.ie.

Deputy Feighan said: “I urge local groups in Roscommon to review the scheme and consider an application, I wish to thank the community foundation and the EPA for coming together and funding this grant programme for local communities”.

Extensions required for those on Schemes Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has asked the Tánaiste to provide extensions to participants of Community Employment, Tús and the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance as well as other schemes where participants have lost out on the usual benefits due to Covid-19.

Deputy Kerrane said: “Participants on schemes under the Department of Social Protection such as Community Employment, Tús and the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance typically benefit from a range of training opportunities and work experience, which have been lost in the last year due to Covid-19.

“I have asked that consideration be given to extending time on these schemes for participants impacted.

“No sector has been immune from the wider effects of the public health crisis, it has impacted every aspect of our lives.

“I have previously asked Minister Heather Humphreys about this and I will continue to push it on behalf of all schemes and participants”.

22

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Business

Castlerea students will represent county in national Entrepreneurship final Local Enterprise Office Roscommon has announced that winning teenager entrepreneurs from Castlerea Community College will represent Co. Roscommon in this year’s Student Enterprise Programme National Final on Friday, May 14th. As with last year’s event, the final will take place virtually, with approximately eighty finalist teams logging in all over the country.

The students all took part in the Roscommon County Final on Monday, 15th March, which was held virtually and live-streamed. Making it through to the county final were twenty-one teams, represented by sixty-six students from seven second-level schools in Co. Roscommon.

The enterprise education initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the thirty-one Local

Enterprise Offices in Local Authorities throughout the country, saw over 29,000 students from just under 500 secondary schools across the country take part in 2020/2021. The programme supports students to create, design and market their own business, all with the hope of reaching the National Final.

In the senior category of the competition, students of Castlerea Community College, Katelyn Drury and Holly Connolly from ‘Rust Busters’ will represent County Roscommon.

Special guests at the virtual county final included Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr.

Laurence Fallon and Jack Carty of Connacht Rugby.

Speaking at the county final, Louise Ward (Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon) congratulated the students and stated:

“We have a very successful student enterprise programme here in Co. Roscommon, with 443 students from seven local schools taking part this year. Our national finalists are excellent ambassadors for the programme and we wish them the very best of luck on Friday 14th.

“In what has been a particularly challenging year for students, the programme has offered them an outlet outside of the usual school demands.

What our students are learning from the programme is that with the right supports and encouragement, they can take an idea from the classroom and develop it into a real-life business. The skills they learn along the way, such as business planning, market research, selling and teamwork, will help them become more entrepreneurial throughout their future careers”.

Survey: Check broadband speeds in West Roscommon homes – Naughten National Broadband Ireland has started surveying rural homes in West Roscommon and adjoining parts of East Galway as part of its planned delivery of 500mbps high speed broadband to these rural homes by 2022/3, Denis Naughten TD has confirmed.

The areas to be surveyed in County Roscommon are rural Castlerea, Frenchpark, Lissalway, Castleplunkett, Ballintubber, Ballinlough, Carrowbehy, Loughglynn, Moyne, Fairymount, Castlecole, Bellanagare, Clegernagh, Tibohine and Carrowcrin. In County Galway, the areas to be surveyed are Ballymoe, Glinsk, Knockogonnell, Killsallagh, Derryvode and Flaskagh Beg. The initial offering to be made available to homes will be 500mbps, but homes can access up to 1000mbps, with rural businesses being able to access 10,000mbps if needed from 2023. Denis Naughten pointed out that now that National Broadband Ireland is starting this survey work, it is vital that people across County Roscommon and East Galway

check their colour code on the National Broadband Map at broadband.gov.ie.

“If people are not getting at least 30Mbps consistently, particularly in towns and villages, then they need to make sure they are amber on the National Broadband Map, so that they can be provided with suit-

able broadband solutions through the plan. About 80,000 homes will fall into this category,” explained Denis Naughten. “With everybody currently using their home broadband, now is a good time to check your actual speed. If you are not getting at least 30mbps then you should log on to Denis-

Naughten.ie/broadband”. * If anyone has questions regarding the survey, they can contact National Broadband Ireland directly on 0818 624 624 (local call rate) or email them on contactus@nbi.ie. Further information on the National Broadband Plan can be found at nbi.ie.

Six of the best!

Six awards were up for grabs – four special merit awards, one runner-up and one overall county winner.

The award for best R&D project (with a prize of €200) was ‘WIJE Board’, by Roscommon Community College students Eoin Conroy, Jakub Chabowski, Ian Connolly, and William Connolly.

Teacher: Ms. Emer Carolan. The judges commented: “This award goes to the project that put a significant effort into researching and developing a board game that could compete with the big players in the marketplace, with a clever design and eye-catching marketing. Due to their creativity and unique flair, the WIJE Board team deserves the award for best R&D project”.

The award for best rural innovation (with a prize of €200) went to ‘Hay-net Holders’, by Scoil Mhuire Strokestown students Aisling Conroy, Jennifer Hoare, and Emily O’Brien. Teacher: Ms. Suzanne Lohan. The judges commented: “Given the predominantly rural nature of County Roscommon, young people continue to come up with new innovations to assist with agri and farm-based activities.

This year is no different, and this special award goes to Hay-Net Holders from Scoil Mhuire Strokestown, for their innovative and robust product for filling hay nets for animal feeding, currently available online and through DoneDeal”.

The award for best commercial opportunity to address Covid challenges (with a prize of €200) went to ‘RC Fleeces’, by Convent of Mercy, Roscommon students Eva Greene and Claire McNeill.

Teacher: Ms. Frances Kilcommins. The judges commented: “With windows and doors left open in classrooms to meet with Covid guidelines, they have been very cold and draughty. The requirement to continue wearing uniforms led to the idea to develop a warm fleece product that was attractive to students, personalised with their initials so they wouldn’t get mixed up with others, but with school logo and colours to make them an acceptable part of the school uniform so that the school management agreed to them. With sales of over €6,000, the clear winner in this category is RC Fleeces from Convent of Mercy, Roscommon”.

The award for the best environmental/up-cycling project (with a prize of €200) went to ‘TableTastic’, by Castlerea Community College students Áine Brennan, Amy McDermott, Clara Canny, and Alanna Foley. Teacher: Ms. Yvonne Ryan. The judges commented: “Through reusing small and large cable drums that were cleverly designed and painted, a range of outdoor garden furniture and children’s seating for playschools and creches were developed, showing what can be done with some imagination, and a USP of sustainability and environmental awareness that is more and more important in today’s world. This awards goes to TableTastic, Castlerea Community College”.

The runner-up award (with a prize of €300) went to ‘The Lazy Loafers’, by Convent of Mercy, Roscommon students Abby Gooney and Ciara Merriman. Teacher: Ms. Frances Kilcommins. The judges commented: “With an increased demand for home baking during the Covid lockdown, as well as trends towards healthy eating and convenience products, this clever idea is a brown-bread making kit, complete with pre-mixed dry ingredients, a disposable loaf tin and liner to give you that fresh homemade feeling, making baking easier, convenient and mess-free. This award goes to Lazy Loafers from Convent of Mercy, Roscommon”.

The overall winners (with a prize of €500), and the team that will go on to represent Roscommon at the national final on May 14th is ‘Rust Busters’, by Castlerea Community College students Katelyn Drury and Holly Connolly. Teacher: Ms. Yvonne Ryan. The judges commented: “A clear winner across all of the judges this year – a project that combines product development and creativity with up cycling and great marketing, and with excellent sales to a nationwide market, first prize goes to Rust Busters from Castlerea Community College with their range of products from recycled horseshoes, including Christmas products, wine holders and other household ornaments and functional products”.

23

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

PropertyPeople PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS

We are now seeking quality family homes in all areas. Reply in confidence to REA Seamus Carthy on 090 6630001.

ONLINE AUCTION 9TH APRIL Property known as

“Callaghan’s”, Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Folio RN30618F comprising Commercial/Residential Property. High Profile Location. Established trading location adjacent to Market Square. Substantial yard/garden to rear accessed from St. Patrick Street.

Unlimited Potential and its location are suitable to a variety of uses.

AMV: €75,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN

NEW TO THE MARKET

FINAL OFFERS ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY 16TH APRIL

F45 DF72

10 Park View, Lisnamult, Roscommon Town, Roscommon, F42 AV21

c.53 acres of land at Runnabrackan, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

Attractive 3 Bedroom Bungalow set on a prime elevated site in the sought after location of Knockroe, Castlerea Town. This most select bungalow is completely refurbished to include external insulation. Comprising of Living room, Dining room, Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms and a Bathroom. Large garden to rear with separate access.

Enquiries now invited.

Guide Price: €160,000

Quality 3 Bed Semi-Detached residence with detached fuel store situated within walking distance to all amenities in Roscommon town. The subject property is presented in good condition and benefits from a garden to the front and rear. Excellent Value on offer.

Viewing is highly recommended with immediate enquiries advised.

Guide Price: €125,000

Situated in a good farming district set back off the N60 National secondary road within close proximity to Roscommon Town.

Excellent opportunity for neighbouring farmers to increase their landholding. Attractive lot size will generate interest from the wider agricultural community. The said lands benefited from a former grant of planning for a substantial “GAA Centre of Excellence”. Final offers on or before Friday the 16th of April.

Contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town for more information on 090 66 30001 or 0868035538.

Guide Price: €300,000.

NEW TO THE MARKET Knockroe, Castlerea, Roscommon,

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

Impressive bungalow in picturesque location!

This week, REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present to the market, Cloonliss Lodge, a most impressive and attractive four-bedroomed, detached, former bungalow, set on approximately 3.3 acres in a most picturesque location in Mount Talbot, Roscommon.

The property is presented in excellent condition and finished to a high specification throughout. Externally, the property benefits from an at-

REA Seamus Carthy’s Sale of the Week

This week, REA Seamus Carthy is pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a traditional cottage situated on approximately 11.86 acres of agricultural lands

at Gurteen, Willamstown.

The property is a newly refurbished, three-bedroomed bungalow, with farm outbuildings.

REA Seamus Carthy now

urgently requires properties of similar type. If you are considering selling, contact our office today on 0906630001, or contact Seamus directly on 086-8035538.

tractive natural stone façade driveway, lined on one side by a beautiful stonewall.

Internally, the property is presented in pristine condition.

Ground floor accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen, dining room, conservatory, utility, WC, and bedroom with ensuite. On the first floor, there are three bedrooms (one ensuite) and a family bathroom.

This represents a wonderful

opportunity to purchase a quality residence, set on approximately 3.3 acres in a most picturesque location convenient to Roscommon town, just off the main Roscommon to Galway road. This a stunning family home, and viewing is highly recommended.

For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy on 090-6630001, email info@ reacarthy.ie or contact Seamus directly on 086-8035538.

24

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Classifieds

Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!

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

ACCOUNTS McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting.

Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

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

PODIATRIST

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments 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 • 20 years experience

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

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

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

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

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Movement Matters

CHIMNEY SWEEP

Sarah Fleming

(registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Department of Health Approved

PODIATRIST

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone:

087 2798704

• Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

COUNSELLING 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?

fergalkelly@live.com

Please call Glynis on

Fergal 086 1016899

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

COUNSELLING

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

085 2514394

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal.

Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance.

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

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

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

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

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

Phone:

087 2721193

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

DRIVING LESSONS NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

FENCING/GATES

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715 < FOR SALE: Bales of Silage, Haylage and Hay. Roscommon/Lanesboro area.

Tel: 087 2320483 < FOR SALE: Silage bales for sale in Creggs area. Tel: 086 8170126

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

087 2346364 GARDENING 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

Telephone:

TREES FOR SALE

Mobile:

All types of trees and hedging for sale.

Can be delivered.

094 96 20099 086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Contact Tommy: 087 4177148

25

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Classifieds 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

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Marcus Morgan, intend to apply for permission for retention of; a 5 bedroom dwelling house from any changes from the previously granted permissions listed on this site under planning reference 11682 & 11682A, along with permission for retention of domestic sheds, greenhouses, walled garden and boundary walls, situated on an established mature site located at Corriga, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town, F42 X018.

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: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Ph: (090) 6634421 Fax: (090) 6634423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

090 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Guinan 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 Attirory, Creagh, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its 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 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application by the planning authority.

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinmore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

T: 090 6624681 M: 087 635 8949 E: sblake2006@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Stephen McGuinness intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of domestic garage, fuel store and general store to rear of existing dwelling at Ballytoohey, Termonbarry, 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 Shuttington Holdings ULC intend to apply for permission for development at Warren/ Drum, Carrick Road, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

This development will consist of the change of use of existing convenience shop to include part off-licence use (gross floor area for off-licence use 18 sq.m.), alterations to shop front elevation and associated works.

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

Signed: APS Consulting & Engineering Limited.

Lackagh, Turloughmore, Co. Galway M: 087 9753953

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We wish to apply to Roscommon Co Council for full planning permission for the proposed construction of a livestock shed including all other associated site works at Killoy Td, Lecarrow, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Padraig & Bernadette Corcoran.

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.

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

USEFUL SERVICES

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE

086 2437376

< TURF FOR SALE: 50 bags of good quality turf for sale, €3 each. Phone: 087 6175160

FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free.

• 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 < TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011

SITUATIONS WANTED < MAN AVAILABLE: For powerwashing, painting, gardening, tidy ups etc. Ten miles from Glenamaddy.

Phone: 086 2200520

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

USEFUL SERVICES

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798

P’Nuts Powerwashing Service

• Driveways • Cobblestones • Slatted Sheds • Footpaths • Patios • Yards

NOW DOING Drain Cleaning and Unblocking

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Call Padraig

086 602 7509

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 2427727 evoroofingandguttering.com

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

No job too big or too small

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

26

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DUIGNAN Michael and Theresa Araghty, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (23rd Anniversaries) In loving memory of our dear Mum and Dad.

MANNION Martin and Gerard Carntleva, Four Roads, Roscommon.

(19th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Martin (Marty) who died on 22nd March 2002 and his son Gerard (Gerry) who died on the 6th October 2002

GIBLIN John Mote Park, Roscommon (10th Anniversary) In loving memory of my brother John who died on 21st of March 2011.

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 Your names are always mentioned, your thoughts are always with us.

Ye haven’t been forgotten, whats more you never will.

Fondly remembered by your daughters Mary, Anna and Theresa, sons-in-law Séamus and Padraig and grandchildren.

MURRAY Michael and Ruth Kilmore, Athleague (4th and 28th Anniversary)

Their memories are so precious, their presence missed so much, they will always be remembered, and loved by all of us.

Sadly missed by extended family, relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Easter Monday in the Church of Christ of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads.

Ar dheis de go raibh a h-anamí dílís.

McDONNELL Rose

Curry, Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 16th March, 2020

Your resting place I visit, I place some flowers with care.

No one know the heartache as I turn and leave you all there.

KERINS Donal

12th April 1993

Our special parents, sincere and kind, happy memories left behind.

Always loved, missed and remembered by Marie and Shane and their partners Gabriel and Shevaun.

Anniversary Mass will be offered privately in Athleague on Sunday, 21st March.

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

As we lovingly remember Rose on her first anniversary, her son Andy, daughters Marion, Kathleen and Dympna together with the extended McDonnell family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all who sympathised with us during our sad loss.

A special appreciation to everyone who helped out during the time of Rose’s funeral and to our wonderful neighbours and friends for their kindness and support.

Thanks to everyone who offered us words of comfort and to all who sent Mass Cards, sympathy cards, letters, enrolments, flowers, text messages, phone calls, online condolences and visited our home. A special word of thanks to all those who attended the Funeral Mass. We will be forever grateful to all those who stood so respectively in the church grounds and at Cam Cemetery in a very challenging time.

Our sincere gratitude to Fr. Michael McManus, assisted by Deacon Willie Gacquin, for visiting our home, praying with us and celebrating the Funeral Mass. Thanks to Henry Hamrock for the beautiful singing and music.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the gravediggers who carefully prepared Rose’s final resting place. Thanks to Enda McHugh, Funeral Director who carried out the funeral arrangements in such a caring, dignified and professional manner and for his advice and guidance.

Thanks to Dr. John Rice and staff at Athlone Town Medical Centre for the great care and attention shown to Rose over the years. Thanks to the staff of Cooney’s Pharmacy, Town Centre, Primary Care team, Monksland and Portiuncula Hospital for their support. A special thanks to Eileen and Ann for all their help, kindness and support in caring for Rose in her home.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude.

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

Rose’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Curraghboy Church, on Sunday 18th April, at 10am.

Life is not measured by the years you lived but by the love you gave and the things you did.

A loving smile, a heart of gold these are the memories we tenderly hold.

Curry, Brideswell, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary and 46th Anniversary)

Sadly missed by your sister Winifred.

Church Street, Strokestown.

19th March 2017

BUTLER Teresa and Jimmy

(13th. Anniversary) Fondly remembered today Teresa and Family.

Masses offered.

COYLE Annie Weekfield, Roscommon.

2nd Anniversary - 18th March.

Teresa who died on 17th March 2013 and Jimmy who died on 25th February 1975 Sadly missed by their family.

Masses offered.

Notice re.

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

or call us on

086 8054227 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon People, A silent though a quiet prayer, for someone special in God’s care.

Those who think of you today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Abbey Street, Roscommon

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

Remembered with love by your sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Hospital on Thursday, 18th March.

The local paper!

27

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HOLIAN Tom Racecourse Rd, Roscommon.

(15th Anniversary) Who died on 24th March.

In the quiet of the evening, at the close of the day, we will rest on the journey to the Lord we shall pray.

We thank God for blessings, for the moments we’ve shared, as we seek for tomorrow, close by us you’ll stay.

Always in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace.

Nuala and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ DAD Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

Forever in our hearts, Caroline, Richie, Ben, Sean and Rebecca. xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~ DAD Like a shadow in the moonlight, like the whisper of the seas, like the echoes of a melody just beyond our reach.

In the shadow of our sorrow, past the whisper of goodbye, love shines through eternity a heart beat from our eye.

Always remembered Kathleen, Robert, Ella and Robyn. xxx Masses offered.

STEPHENS Michael Ballybride, Roscommon 30th Anniversary 16th March 1991

In loving memory of a dear husband, father, brother and friend.

Its 30 years ago now, the 16th of March, a date that for so many is etched deep within our hearts.

We do not forget your voice Dad, or the smile upon your face, we never really feel you’re gone, just asleep in your resting place.

Always remembered and forever in our hearts Betty, Paul, John, Gary, Aidan, Marie and Lisa and family.

BYRNE Michael Scregg, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

(14th Anniversary)

MORAN Killian Glenamaddy, Co. Galway (5th Anniversary)

Today it would be wonderful to see you play and smile.

But Heaven lent you to this world for just a little while.

Your leaving caused so many tears and such a lot of pain, but God needed one more.

Angel so he took you back again, and though our hearts are broken and your life was far too short, we thank you sweetest Angel for the happiness you brought.

Loved and missed everyday Mummy, Daddy and Ava, your grandparents, aunty, uncles, cousins and extended family. xxxx Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Glenamaddy on Sunday, 21st March at 10.30am, broadcast on local radio 106.4fm

GUCKIAN Patrick Essex Lawn, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Michael who passed away on the 8th March 2007 Our hearts are full of memories with pride we speak your name.

Sadly missed by your sisters Bridie and Lillie, brother John, nephews and nieces.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 20th March in private.

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

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Who died on 23rd March 2019 Softly in the morning, you heard a gentle call, you took the hand God offered you, and quietly left us all.

You were always there when we needed you, no task too great or small.

With loving heart and willing hands, for us you did it all.

Look around your garden Lord, and when he turns and smiles, put your arms around him, and hold him for a while.

Loved and remembered always by your wife Teresa, sons and daughters, sonsin-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren Masses offered.

MONAGHAN Mary Edmond, London and formerly Gallowstown, Roscommon (7th Anniversary) Who died February 2014

MURRAY Michael Joseph Ballindall, Racecourse Rd, Roscommon Town.

(1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Michael, who died on March 19th 2020 R.I.P.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MARY Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget, no longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Sadly missed by your brother Simon, Ann, Simon Jnr. and Shane Doyle.

DOLAN Buddy Cloonslanor, Strokestown (16th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Buddy who died 15th March 2005.

Will those who think of him today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered and sadly missed by his wife Mai, sons Padraic, Brian, Cormac, daughters Fiona, Michelle and Hazel, brother John P. sisters Maureen and Teresa and his grandchildren, sonsin-law, daughters-in-law, relatives and friends.

Masses offered.

KEEGAN Joe Gurraun, Creggs, Co. Roscommon 10th Anniversary - 17th March 2021

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words we will never forget.

No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Always remembered by his wife Bernadette, daughters Joanne, Jackie, Julie and extended family.

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed 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 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.

Sadly missed by his wife Teresa, his children June, Mary, Alan and John, sonin-law Danny, daughtersin-law Margaret and Lisa.

Grandchildren, Michael, Devin and Dan O’Brien, Kevin and Kormac Murray and Caoimhe Murray. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ GRANDAD You cared for us when we were small, we will love and remember you as we grow tall.

First Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 20th March at 7pm.

McHUTCHEON Alex Fallon Avenue, Roscommon, formely The Kilbride Inn, Tully, Strokestown Who died on 21st March 2019 (2nd Anniversary)

There is a face before us, a voice we’d love to hear.

A smile we will always remember of a Dad we loved so dear.

Loved and sadly missed by his loving family.

Email or call for Sample Pack

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OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

28

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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29

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Classifieds

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Glanbia Ireland is one of Ireland’s leading Food Companies. We deliver Fresh Milk, Cream and other Dairy Products to our customer network through our fleet of distributors.

The distributor is a key partner of Glanbia Ireland.

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THIS IS A SELF-EMPLOYED ROLE OWN VEHICLE REQUIRED If you feel you have the skills and aptitude to meet the requirements of this role please forward your CV and application to pbyrnes@glanbia.ie Mobile: 087 2533054 If you wish to apply for above role, please forward CV by Friday, 2nd April

Pictured hanging out on the jungle gym are Roxboro National School pupils Dylan, Shay, Noah, Dillie, Ailbhe and Philippa. Photograph by Mick McCormack

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Pictured playing during break-time are Scoil Bhríde National School pupils Callum, Tiernan, Isabel and Alex. Photograph by Mick McCormack

30

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

Sports PEOPLE

Heroic Henshaw!

Robbie Henshaw was outstanding in Ireland’s 27-24 Guinness Six Nations Championship victory over Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday. Henshaw sent Ireland on their way to an away win, with the outcome closer than it should have been.

The Athlonian made a terrific chase to tap back a Garryowen and was alert and astute in continuing to follow up play, where he swooped after Keith Earls tangled with a duo of Scottish defenders to ground the ball for a smartly taken try. Henshaw consistently made breaks and tackles, leading by example from start to finish. He is arguably Ireland’s most consistent performer this season and surely a very strong Lions contender.

He got a 9/10 rating in the Irish Examiner (the highest), where Brendan O’Brien asks, “Is Robbie Henshaw now Ireland’s best player?”

We hear his mum Audrey said his performance was the perfect Mother’s Day gift for her!

Now let’s hope Robbie and Ireland build on this display when England arrive at the Aviva Stadium this weekend.

‘For the love of the club’ Buccaneers RFC, in association with Connacht Rugby, is hosting a virtual 5k/10k run/walk fundraiser from St. Patrick’s Day until March 24th. It can be done in your own time and area, and costs only €10 to register, with all funds going to the club.

Additionally, the event’s partners, Bank of Ireland, will present €5,000 worth of Rhino rugby equipment to the club that goes the furthest mile. This would be a most welcome boost for the club during these challenging times.

The full details on how you can get involved are available on the Buccaneers and Connacht rugby websites.

Condolences The death has occurred of Raymond Harkins. Our deepest sympathy is extended to his twin sister Velma, the McFadden family and friends. A quiet and gentle man, may he rest in eternal peace.

Cathal’s Cheltenham date today

Former Roscommon and St. Brigid’s footballer Cathal McHugh will be hoping for success at the Cheltenham Festival today (Thursday) as he is a part-owner of the six-year-old ‘Skyace’, which will run in the Mares’ Hurdle at 4.15 pm.

The mare has won her last two starts – at Gowran Park and Tipperary – and is trained by John ‘Shark’ Hanlon.

The horse is priced at 12/1 (as we go to press) and the six-strong syndicate are hoping that Skyace will run into a place at least.

Cathal works as a teacher in the United Arab Emirates.

Holding court: Gaelscoil de hÍde pupils pictured playing a game of basketball on Tuesday. Photograph by Mick McCormack

GAA: The wait continues! < SEAMUS DUKE

No decision on a return to training or games in the GAA will be taken until the end of this month. The GAA will have to re-draw its fixtures list for this year, but will wait until they have clear public health advice as to when there might be a path to return to playing.

The association will then have to decide whether to go ahead with the inter-county scene first, or to instead proceed with the club season.

It is thought that if action is permitted before the end of May, the national leagues may be played, followed by the club scene, with the inter-county championships being played at the end of the year, similar to 2020.

New Connacht contracts for four Rossies

Four Roscommon players have been offered new contracts by Connacht Rugby for next season.

Team regulars Jack Carty and Denis Buckley, along with Niall Murray and Colm Reilly, have put pen to paper which will keep them at The Sportsground until the end of the 2021/’22 season.

London GAA’s Paul Coggins represents Roscommon in ‘Irish in Britain’ series

Paul Coggins represents Roscommon in ‘Irish in Britain’ series

The London-based national charity and membership network Irish in Britain has launched a new digital series to coincide with St. Patrick’s Day, called ‘We are the Irish in Britain: county connections’.

Through 32 short videos, participants talk about the Irish county or counties they have a connection to, sometimes sharing a favourite spot from their county and a message for other Irish people in Britain after a year like no other.

Paul Coggins, the former manager of the London senior football team, represents his native County Roscommon in the series. Originally from Granlahan, Paul is currently manager of Tír Chonaill Gaels in West London.

In his profile piece, he talks about the beautiful sites of Roscommon like Lough Key and Roscommon Castle. He looks forward to returning to Lough Flynn and Dr. Hyde Park as soon as it is safe to do so. During Paul’s time as manager, Dr. Hyde Park was the venue for London’s 2013 victory over Leitrim to reach their first Connacht Championship final.

Participants in the ‘Irish in Britain’ series

include Bridgerton actor Jamie Beamish (Waterford), Andrea Catherwood (Antrim), chef and restaurateur Richard Corrigan (Meath), Conor McGinn MP (Armagh), former London football manager Paul Coggins (Roscommon) and comedian Alison Spittle (Westmeath).

The messages include calls for diversity and inclusion, recognising the difficulties of the last year in terms of mental health, getting involved in your local community, and looking ahead to next year’s St. Patrick’s Day when restrictions will hopefully have been reduced or ended altogether.

Irish in Britain CEO Brian Dalton said: “St. Patrick’s Day is a time for Irish people everywhere to renew and affirm our connections to each other, a remembering and celebration of kinship. We thank everyone who has contributed to this different but important St. Patrick’s Day project”.

Irish in Britain have been sharing the videos on their website www.irishinbritain.org and social media channels @ irishinbritain from 3 March.

31

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

This weekend’s action There is no racing in Ireland today due Cheltenham. Tomorrow sees racing on the all-weather at Dundalk, off at 5 pm. Saturday’s racing is at Thurles and features the Grade 3 Pierce Molony Memorial Novice Chase and the Grade 2 the Webster Cup Chase, off at 2.15pm and at Wexford there is a point-to-point bumper card at 1.20 pm.

On Sunday, racing is at Downpat-

rick, featuring the Ulster National Handicap Chase with a 2.10 pm start and the first meeting of the flat season is on at the Curragh with the Paddy Power Irish Lincolnshire starting at 1.30 pm.

The ground at Navan is heavy with an unsettled forecast. Following 35mm of rain Tuesday night Limerick, racing on Sunday, is heavy and partially waterlogged. The track is unraceable at present and the situation is being monitored.

Denise Foster completed her first treble from Cullentra House at Navan last Saturday as Coqolino and the impressive Gars De Sceaux credited his owner J.P. McManus and jockey Mark Walsh with doubles and Robinstown ridden by Jack Kennedy for the One For No Name Syndicate completed it.

Any Second Now, trained by Ted Walsh completed a treble for McManus and Walsh.

Late last Wednesday night the

Tribunal released their decision in the case against Rob James and suspended him for twelve months, eight of which they suspended. The punishment is similar to that of Gordon Elliott but the suspension of eight months instead of six was due to Mr. James’ age at the time of the offence, 22, the urgings of a senior member of Colin Bowe’s staff and his patting the neck of the animal by way of a remorseful gesture showing some empathy.

Former lady point-to-point champion rider Aileen O’Sullivan, who rode her first winner at Rockfield in 2015 on A Tiora Dall, has taken out a conditionals licence had her first ride as a professional aboard Drimsee Lad at Down Royal yesterday. The Meath native was crowned joint-ladies champion in same season with Liz Lalor and Sheila Ahern.

O’Sullivan balances working full-time with AIB with riding out and going point-to-pointing every weekend.

Cheltenham Festival 2021

Tiger Roll is back!

Irish eyes are smiling in Cheltenham Tiger Roll rolled back the years at Cheltenham on St. Patrick’s Day to claim his fifth win at the festival when reclaiming his Glenfarclas Chase crown in devastating fashion.

Irish trainers have dominated the opening two days, claiming a whopping eleven wins to Britain’s three.

Cheltenham Review There were small fields compared to normal on the first day of the festival with maximum runners in only one race, 22, in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle.

In the opening Supreme Novices Hurdle, eight went to post and Appreciate It opened the Irish account like the banker he was thought to be should. Willie Mullins’ charge led the field a merry dance and won from Ballyadam and For Pleasure by 24l and 2¼l to give Mullins a seventh success in the race.

Only six contested the Arkle, which was won by last year’s Supreme winner Shiskin who came to take his race three out and easily beat Elrorado Allen the complete outsider at 33/1 by 12l with Captain Guinness third, a further length away. The winner is owned by Joe and Marie Donnelly from Limerick who look forward to Al Boum Photo in the Gold Cup tomorrow.

Ten went to post in the Ultima Handicap Chase which was won by the outsider Vintage Clouds at 28/1 at his fifth time of asking.

The favourite, Happygolucky, finished runner-up, beaten 5½l with Aye Right 2¼l back in third.

The winner was trained by Sue Smith with Ryan Mania on board had finished second and third in his previous four runs.

The featured Champion Hurdle went to the unbeaten Irish mare Honeysuckle, trained by Henry de Bromhead and ridden by Rachel Blackmore, who proved that their Irish Champion Hurdle spectacular win at Leopardstown was a true run. Willie Mullins’ Sharjah finished second for the second year in a row and last year’s winner Epatante finished third. Who would bet against her being back in 2022?

In the mares hurdle the Cullentra trained Black Tears, under Jack Kennedy, went one bet-

ter than in last year’s Coral Cup to give Sneezy Foster her first Prestbury Park winner by a head from the Mullins trained favourite Concertista with Roxanna 2¾l further back in third.

The Irish were on the mark again in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle but not too many punters were on Jeff Kidder at 80/1 for Noel Meade and Sean Flanagan with the Mullins trained Saint Sam second, the 9/2 favourite, and Elham Valley third at 66/1.

In the National Hunt Chase, there was a field of eleven horses including Galvin, who went one better than last year’s second in the Novice Handicap Chase, beating Next Destination and Escaria Ten by 1 ½ l and the same.

Jack Kennedy was completing a double on board the former inmate of Cullentra for Ian Ferguson’s Co. Antrim yard. The horse was aimed for this race back in the autumn.

After day one, the Irish led the British by five trained winners to two in the Prestbury Cup awarded for the battle between the nations.

Day Two The Ballymore Novices Hurdle saw seven go to post and finish with an Irish 1, 2 as de Bromhead and Blackmore added to yesterday’s win with Bob Olinger winning from Mullins’ Gailiar Du Mensil and Bravemansgame by 7½l and 4½l.

In the Brown Advisory Chase, only six went to post and included the hottest Irish banker in Monkfish and Eklat De Rire for de Bromhead and Blackmore who departed at the twelfth. Monkfish went head-to-head with Tizzard’s The Big Breakaway who finished 3rd being passed on the run by stablemate Fiddlerontheroof pulled away to win by 6½l and 11l.

There was another unexpected Irish winner in the Coral Cup when 33/1 Heaven Help Us won for Paul Hennessy, who also bred the winner ridden by Richard Condon. Craigneiche and Tea Clipper filled the minor places beaten 9l and 2¼l.

This year’s Queen Mother Champion Chase had a very late withdrawal with Paul Nichols’ Politologue bursting in the pre-race parade ring. Another winner for the de Bromhead machine with Put The Kettle On, last

year’s Arkle winner, and Aidan Coleman in the saddle finishing ½l and 1l in front of Nube Negra and Chacun Pour Soi, the odds on favourite.

In the Glenfarclas Cross Country handicap Chase, Tiger Roll found his form and Keith Donoghue rode him to give one of his finest performances when winning his third cross country festival race, beating last year’s winner Easyland easily by 18l with Some Neck third, a further 2¼l back. Definite major celebrations when they can at Cullentra for their star horse. What a pity we will not see him at Aintree this year.

The Fred Winter Juvenile handicap hurdle gave the British some welcome relief when the Jonjo O’Neill trained Sky Pirate just held on from the Joseph O’Brien trained Entoucas and Ibleo In the Weatherby’s Champion Bumper, another 1, 2, 3 for the Irish with Sir Gerhard, Rachel Blackmore ridden, winning for Willie Mullins who also trained the second Kilcruit under Townend.

At the halfway stage, the score in the Prestbury Cup is a whopping eleven wins to Ireland and three to Britain.

Preview of Days Three and Four In the opening Marsh Novice Chase from an entry of 33 only eight runners go to post, five Irish and three British. The Irish contingent is headed by de Bromhead’s Envoi Allen ridden by Jack Kennedy and unbeaten in eleven track runs for Gordon Elliott. He is the Irish banker for the entire meeting and will win.

The Pertemps Final, one of those handicaps best left alone, is a wide-open affair with a full complement of 24 runners from 46 entries, including five Irish trained, headed by Cullentra’s The Bosses Oscar. The layers are going 5/1 Imperial Alcazar, 11/2 the Bosses Oscar but one English runner that catches the eye is David Pipe’s Brinkley who has won his last two after a wind surgery last autumn. He is 11/1 and e/w value if you must have a bet but is one of those races where your pin is best.

Out of 35 there are 14 set to go in the Ryanair with an even split of seven Irish and seven British runners. The raiding party is headed by three Mullins horses

Min and Melon and the recently acquired Alloha from Cullentra.

Paul Townend rides Min, Bryan Cooper Melon and Tuesday’s heroine Rachel Blackmore is on Alloha. The latter will probably be favourite but Townend’s choice is taken to win. Joseph O’Brien’s Fakir D’oudairies at 9/1 is e/w value.

In this year’s Stayers Hurdle, 15 are declared to run out of the entry of 42. The one to beat looks to be the 2019 winner Paisley Park who disappointed in last year’s race finishing seventh. She looks to have recovered her form with a win at Ascot on her last run overturning the form with Thyme Hill, ruled out of this race by a setback, who beat her in November at Newbury. The Storyteller, Denise Foster’s outsider, at only 10/1, could be the best of the Irish runners for an e/w bet.

In the Plate Handicap Chase, out of a huge entry of 78 there are 23 runners and similar comments as above in the Pertemps would normally apply to this race. There are four Irish horses heading the ante post betting including The Shunter from Emmet Mullins’ yard who stands to gain a £100,000 bonus if he wins. The Joseph O’Brien pair of A Wave Of The Sea and Fils D’oudairies oppose him along with the Cullentra House trained Farclas.

The Shunter is rated 7lb less over fences and coupled with Jordan Gainsford’s 7lb claim it give him a great chance at 5/1.

There are 10 Irish runners out of the 15 runners left in the 2m Mares Novice Hurdle from an entry of 33. While Closutton supplies 4 of the Irish runners, all fancied, but an Irish winner could come the pair that fought the Grade 3 Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse recently when Royal Kahala was beaten 2l by Rosey’s Hollow. While Jonathan Sweeney’s Rosey’s Hollow has won 3 of her 5 starts and Peter Fahy’s Royal Kahula 3 out of 6 starts the latter’s defeat of The Big Hollow looks the best line of form. An interesting runner here is Shark Hanlon’s Skyace whom he bought at the sales for an Irish Syndicate based in Dubai, led by Rossie Cahal McHugh, for £600, yes hundred not thousand and he has won 3 races since. There will be an Irish winner of this race, but which one is a very big question?

The Kim Muir has only 23 runners with the late defection of Late Romantic from an entry of 65. There are British joint fa-

Tiger Roll ridden by Keith Donoghue to win the Glenfarclas Chase at Cheltenham on St. Patrick’s Day.

vourites in Deise Aba and Hold The Note followed by Mount Ida, Denise Foster and Plan Of Attack, Henry de Bromhead.

Rachel Blackmore rides Plan Of Attack, fourth here last year under Barry O’Neill, and is taken to follow in the footsteps of Honeysuckle.

My e/w Yankee selection for today, €1 stake, is Brinkley, The Storeyteller, The Shunter and Plan Of Attack.

The Triumph Hurdle opens racing on Friday with eight runners out of 42 entries. The Irish again supplying half the field with four including the market leader in Zanahiyr from Cullentra House. He has Alan King’s Tritonic and his former stablemate Quilixios, now with de Bromhead, to beat. Jack Kennedy rides the favourite, and he should win.

The Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle, with 89 entries has the maximum 26 declared once again Irish trained horses fill five of the leading market places. Mullins’ Ganapathi will be market leader but You Raised Me Up, trained by Martin Brassil for Sean Mulryan from Oran, won last time out at Navan and has been backed from 16s to 8s. The heart rules the head here and it is best left alone.

There is a field of 17, six Irish, in the Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle from 48 entered. Mullins’ Stattler, Paul Townend’s choice, has never been out of the first 3 and should start favourite. An outsider who also always runs a good race is J McConnell’s Streets Of Doyen at 25/1 for those of you who want an e/w bet.

Out of 41 entered a field twelve are set to face the starter in the Blue Riband of the festival. WP Mullins seeks to make it three in a row with his only Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo, one

of four Irish trained in the field the biggest danger to him is the de Bromhead trained A Plus Tard looking for the big race double with Rachel Blackmore. Colin Tizzard’s Lostintranslation was third last year under Robbie Power who rides him again. Native River, fourth last year, comes back for more and is in good form winning his last race at Sandown last month. Mullins’ charge has all the form but of the rest Native River with Richard Johnson in the saddle makes most appeal, each way.

The ‘amateur’ Gold Cup, The Foxhunters, has 24 left standing from an entry of 24 and the market is again headed by a Mullins inmate, Billway, who in the absence of amateurs, is ridden

by Townend. Last year’s shock winner Eugene O’Sullivan has Ritchie McClernon aboard and will go close again. Enda Bolger has a great record in this race and his Stand Up And Fight has an e/w chance. Billway to win from Stand Up And Fight.

There were only 19 entered in the penultimate race of the festival and eleven will face the starter. The first five in the betting are Irish trained, headed by Mullins’ Elimay ridden by Mark Walsh for owner JP McManus with Townend on the second favourite, Colreevy.

The Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle for conditional jockeys has 24 runners out of a huge entry of 124. The betting is headed again by a Mullins horse in Gentleman De Mee, who will be ridden by Simon Torrens was an easy winner at Naas last month, but the race is wide open.

My final e/w Yankee selection for Friday, is again a €1 stake, including Zanahiyr, You Raised Me Up, Streets Of Doyen and Stand Up And Fight.

Roscommon People Friday 19 March 2021

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