21 June 2024 Roscommon People

Trad musicians Bill Cunningham (Roscommon Town) Marion Herraty (Ballyleague) and Kitty Phelan (Athleague) pictured outside the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown on the occasion of the launch of the Connacht Fleadh last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Accident on Holidays

I recently returned from my summer holidays in Portugal. Due to circumstances outside of my control I spent a few days of my holidays at the local hospital. To cut a long story short my foot went through the wooden decking attached to our accommodation. The decking was old and some of it simply gave way when I walked on it. My leg was badly cut from my ankle to above my knee. I booked my package holiday through a tour operator but their representative did not offer me any advice regarding compensation for my expenses. Do I have to hire a Spanish lawyer to help me?

If you booked your holiday as a “package holiday” through a tour operator you may be able to make an injury compensation claim against the tour operator for your injuries and any related financial losses.

A package holiday is defined under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 (the “Act”) as a combination of two or more of the following, when sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price:- (i) transport; (ii) accommodation; (iii) other significant elements of a tourist service nature. Under the Act a tour operator may be held responsible for all of the services provided as part of a package holiday including holiday accommodation. Consequently, the tour operator may be liable if the accommodation fails to comply with the standards of health and safety in that country. Legal proceedings may be brought before the Courts in the country where the injured party resides or where the incident occurred. Obviously, it is preferable to bring proceedings in your own country.

It is important to engage a Solicitor as soon as possible to advise you on the best course of action to take. Please feel free to contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham dedicated Litigation Department in confidence for expert advice.

At the end of the day, as my neighbour always says, life is all about numbers!

An accountant, is he?

No, he just says stuff like that!

With PAUL HEALY

Mmnn… and what has inspired this pearl of wisdom from you now?

Well, this week simply proved the case! Go on…

(They pause to update their respective Euro 2024 wallcharts)

Well, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan had 78,214 reasons to be happy…

His first preference vote?

Yes, ‘Ming’ stormed back into the European Parliament! And Ciaran Mullooly had over 57,000 number ones! ALL ABOUT NUMBERS!

A brilliant achievement for the BallyleagueLanesboro man to get elected! And a boost for us!

Why so?

Well, isn’t Mr Mullooly a former Roscommon People columnist?

Oh yes…

And now he’s an MEP! So, in this tortuous saga over our contract renewal for this column, why don’t we call the Editor’s bluff… Huh?

All we have to say to the Editor is… Mullooly’s profile as a columnist helped launch his political career, so if he doesn’t give us a healthy pay increase, we’ll abandon our column and run for the Dáil! Of course it would be a bluff…

But surely the Editor would pick up on that… here?

Oh I doubt if he reads this!

Thebarstoolboyos

Leave that with me! Anyways… 30. Huh?

The number of inches that putt Rory McIlroy missed was…

Oh dear, I still can’t talk about Rory! Still, 2.3 million is a large number… Huh?

Rory won over €2.3m for coming second to Bryson! Not a bad weekend’s work!

WATCHING People

Ming, Mullooly, Rory and Ryan! Endangered Species

(They pause to make plans for their trip to Omagh to support Roscommon against Tyrone)

I’m telling you, life is all about numbers! Look at the newsmakers of the week! Ming, Ciaran Mullooly, Rory… Yeah, I see where you’re going with this… 17!

Huh?

The number of points scored by both Dublin and Mayo in that epic game at the Hyde!

Exactly! Er… 3-20.

Roscommon’s impressive score against Cavan?

Yes!

Five…

Huh?

The average number of hours every day that I’m spending watching Euro 2024!

(They pause to solemnly watch Eamon Ryan’s resignation speech, with the curtains closed, and a warning issued to their respective dogs not to bark at the Green Party leader, the pets’ usual response to seeing him on the TV)

Ah, a decent fella… Huh?

Eamon Ryan. Did some good, drove some people mad…

I wonder why he’s stepping down? Like I say, my friend, life is all about numbers… How is that relevant to Eamon?

From a political point of view, I think he felt his NUMBER WAS UP!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan and Ciaran Mullooly, two well-known figures in the Roscommon People area who were both elected to the European Parliament, Castlerea-based ‘Ming’ for a third time, Ballyleague-based Ciaran at his first attempt

Roscommon senior footballers, who defeated Cavan to qualify for an All-Ireland SFC preliminary quarter-final away to Tyrone this Saturday

Soccer fans, with the start of the Euro 2024 tournament, taking place in Germany

It’s been a BAD week for…

Rory Mcllroy, with his latest bid to end a long wait for a fifth golf major ending in heartbreak as the Northern Irish golfer missed two short putts when bogeying three of the last four holes in the US Open, Bryson DeChambeau pipping him to the title (the €2m-plus that McIlroy won for finishing in second place will be scant consolation)

PIC OF THE WEEK: Seamie Sean Brennan and the Museum of Believing Team, Sinead O’Donnell Carey, Fiona Fitzpatrick (Seamie Sean’s mother), Heather Rose and Miriam Needhan pictured at the recent Cruinniu na nÓg activities at King House in Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

‘Day with the Stars’ at racecourse this Sunday

This Sunday, June 23rd, will see thousands of music-lovers descend on Roscommon Racecourse for the annual ‘Day with the Stars’ festival. Presented by Shannonside Northern Sound Radio, the event will feature some of the best-known names in Irish country music – including Derek Ryan, Mike Denver, Jimmy Buckley, Cliona Hagan, Michael English, Patrick Feeney, Claudia Buckley, Robert Mizzell, Brendan Jermyn, David James, Olivia Douglas, and Roscommon native Brendan Shine. The worldrenowned Shannonside Northern Sound Orchestra will also feature.

Joe Finnegan from Shannonside Northern Sound has stated the event is sure to draw visitors from near and far: “This year we will also see visitors coming into Roscommon from across the UK, the Netherlands, and Spain”, he explained.

“Our aim is to give the festival international recognition and I feel we have succeeded in doing that”. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.ie, and at local outlets – including Fleming’s SuperValu (Roscommon), Corrib Oil (Boyle), Mace and Towey’s in Castlerea, Mulvey’s in Carrick-on-Shannon, Joe O’Brien’s in Lanesboro, and

44 acres fetch €532k after bidding battle!

A prime parcel of lands located just outside the county town fetched over half a million euro by the end of a highly competitive series of phone bids recently.

The landmark lands in question are adjacent to Roscommon Golf Course and were once part of the Lord Crofton Estate in Mote Park.

The approximate 44 acres of mixed lands fetched €532,000 – €132k over the €400,000 guide price – after a bidding ‘battle’ between the last two interested parties.

Auctioneer Sean Naughton said both he and the vendor were “very pleased” with the price realised. Estimating that there are about 20 acres of good quality lands in all, Mr Naughton said the price achieved represented about €20k per acre for the good quality land and about €5,500 per acre for the remainder

Golden Discs Athlone. On the day, a limited number of tickets will be available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis at the main gate. Children under 12, accompanied by their parent/guardian, can enter for free.

Free parking is available, including self-contained camper vans, however camping on site with tents is not permitted.

Full bar and catering facilities will be provided on site. Gates open at 12 noon and the show commences at 2 pm.

Roscommon is the place to be this Sunday!

JUNE 2024 FOSTERING AWARNESS MONTH

Start Your Journey Today

Tusla urgently need more foster carers like you – people who are willing to open their hearts and homes to make a positive impact in their community.

(about 10-12 acres are mature forestry).

The vendor was Boyle native Helen Jones-Monaghan, and the lands were purchased by a local farmer.

Mr Naughton said there was great interest in the auction, conducted over the phone. When bidding reached €460,000, Mr Naughton was given the green light to put the lands on the market. The two remaining interested parties continued with a series of 18 bids over the phone, until the sale was confirmed to the highest bidder, at €532,000. Sean Naughton of Sean Naughton Auctioneers told the People: “This was an excellent price. I think it may be a record for Roscommon, if not for Connacht”.

Solicitors with carriage of sale were Mahon Sweeney Solicitors, Roscommon.

Tusla foster carers are diverse and come from all walks of life. Whether you work full-time, are single, married or have your own children, your unique journey is what makes your experience so valuable. You possess the qualities and skills that can make a real difference to a child’s life, giving them the safe and loving home they deserve.

Fostering Awareness Local Fostering Information Events

To celebrate Fostering Awareness Month, Tusla Fostering Roscommon have scheduled two separate events as follows:

1. Fostering Information Session in Gleeson's Townhouse, Roscommon Town on 27th June 2024 from 11 am to 2 pm, refreshments provided. Please come along and meet foster carers and members of the Fostering Team.

2. Fostering Information Stand at the Connacht Fleadh, Strokestown Co Roscommon on 6th and 7th July 2024, located in the Gig Rig area. Please come along and meet the Fostering Team

Nathan Carter pictured on stage at Roscommon Racecourse during the ‘Day with the Stars’ country music festival in 2023

Roscommon’s Robbie Dolan pictured with Conor Kelly after last Saturday’s win over Cavan in the All-Ireland SFC group two game played at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Galway & Roscommon ETB calls for youth funding increase

Ireland’s 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs), including Galway & Roscommon ETB, who coordinate youth work for over 380,000 young people across the State, have called for the immediate restoration of funding to pre-austerity levels, at their first national conference held in Limerick last Thursday.

Speaking at the conference, General Secretary of Education and Training Boards Ireland, Paddy Lavelle said, “Funding for the youth work sector has decreased significantly since the 2008 economic crash. In that year, funding for youth organisations and special youth projects was €90.5 million. By 2015, this had fallen to €50.53 million, a reduction of over 44%. While there have been small increases of 3%-4% since 2020, and funding now stands at approximately €73 million, it is still signifi-

cantly lower than it was 16 years ago, despite a 26% increase in the youth population since 2006.

“While the youth population has grown significantly over the past two decades,” he continued, “there have also been significant – and stark – social changes that impact on young people’s lives. From the increase in the number of children living in emergency accommodation to the ongoing legacy of the Covid-19 pandemic on our most at-risk young people, the need for quality and extensive youth services has never been greater.

“That’s why we’re calling for the immediate restoration of youth work funding to pre-austerity levels, adjusted in line with inflation and population growth, and factoring in the increased cost of service delivery”.

Over 150 youth officers, youth workers and stakeholders from around the country, including Galway & Roscommon ETB, attended the inaugural national conference, Youth Work Matters, which was held in Thomond Park.

Féin team. To everyone who made last weekend what it was. Special thanks to Shannonside, to Caitín Coneely and the team.

Thank you to every single person who voted for me, from the bottom of my heart, I am honoured. I will represent every person in the Boyle LEA to the best of my ability. Ready to get to work.

Leah

Galway and Roscommon ETB’s Donal Walsh, Davnet McEllin, and Sarah Ni Chuireann pictured with GRETB Director of Schools Sinead Morgan at the ETBI Youth Work Matters conference. Pic: Brian Arthur

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

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You will lose 2-3lbs every week and because our programme is designed to speed up your metabolism, you will keep the weight off when you finish your plan. Programmes available for men and women.

WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

System 10 – helping local people achieve their health and weight loss goals!

The System 10 weight loss plan, which aims to offer participants the chance to potentially lose up to two stone in ten weeks, has been helping lots of local people with achieving their health and wellness goals.

The plan focuses on three ‘keys’ to genuine weight loss: diet, exercise, and metabolism correction. According to System 10, the latter is the most crucial, the ‘switch’ that controls the effectiveness of diet and exercise.

System 10 runs programmes for both men and women, with weekly clinics taking place every Wednesday at the Hive, Dublin Rd, Carrick-on-Shannon, and every Thursday at the Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon (F42 DX61). Booking is essential and can be done by calling 086 3846302. For more information, visit system10weightloss. com.

Local students recognised for their grá for Gaeilge

Students from St Comán’s Wood Primary School in Roscommon are to be presented with a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) in the coming weeks. Various activities to promote the use of the Irish language were set up and run by the student committee in St Comán’s Wood Primary School.

Run by Gael Linn, ‘Gaelbhratach’ is a national initiative that encourages primary and secondary school students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting. In total, 72 flags will be awarded to primary school students across Ireland – the most awarded in any one year. Flags are awarded in recognition of their efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish.

Speaking at a recent awards ceremony, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, Bain-

isteoir Gaelbhratach said, “We are delighted to award primary school students from Roscommon with a Gaelbhratach. Gaelbhratach gives young people of all backgrounds the opportunity to use and develop their Irish language skills in an interactive and non-traditional way.

“The programme aims to put the student voice at the centre of their learning through the Gaelbhratach committee. The role of this student-led committee is to direct the Gaelbhratach activities throughout the school

year – empowering students in Roscommon to take ownership of how and when they use their Irish.

“We have new schools hoping to join the scheme each year and it is inspiring to see young people’s passion for the language”.

Gaelbhratach is an Irish language scheme focused on promoting Irish in primary and secondary schools around the country. Each year, Gaelbhratach organises the postprimary Gaelbhratach Awards Ceremony to celebrate the significant contributions made by teachers and students around the country towards the promotion of the Irish language in their schools.

Further information about the Gaelbhratach scheme is available at gaelbhratach.ie.

Testimonial from Edward and Margaret Molloy (Sligo)

“We joined the System 10 plan over a year ago, and in that time it has completely transformed our lives.

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“We are now more aware of the food we should be eating for a healthy lifestyle, and have enjoyed shopping for many new products that we never tasted beforehand.

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“We would strongly recommend everyone and indeed anyone who wants to transform their life for the betterment of their health to contact System 10 and get on the programme as fast as possible and see the benefits which can be achieved!”

Testimonial from local woman Ita “After years of struggling to lose weight, I finally discovered System10; from day one, I knew what I needed to do, and with the help and guidance from Martina, I’ve managed to lose two stone!

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Advertorial

RECENTLY…

Game on…

The message that pinged into my phone from my cousin in London earlier this year was unexpected.

About a decade ago, his team of soccer-playing ‘veterans’ had travelled over to Roscommon to play the 5-a-side team I toiled with. Now he was suggesting a rematch… ten years on.

Sure, I thought, agreeing without hesitation. But when I put the phone down, it dawned on me: I don’t have a team. We all retired… around ten years ago.

How could I have agreed? My cousin’s team still play twice a week, every week. ‘My’ team retired all those years ago, albeit rashly.

If this rematch went ahead, it would be the Invisible Men versus the Very Visible (and active) Men.

When I discovered that the London 2024 group would consist of about 20 players, it was time to take the challenge seriously. Either that, or change my number.

First, I convinced a few of our long-retired greats to tog out one more time, then I borrowed several members of the Roscommon Masters team, who are still playing.

And so, 36 years after Ray Houghton put the ball into the England net, another IrelandEngland game took place recently, on the weekend of the recent elections, as it happens.

The venue was the excellent grounds at Lisnamult. In the end, we played two games… London veterans versus Roscommon Masters in an 11-a-side, and remaining London veterans versus a small number of freshly-out-of-retirement Rossies on the astroturf.

The main game was a very competitive encounter, London edging it 2-1. It was watched by a handful of people, including a man and his dog. Our team actually won the B game, which didn’t even attract a curious dog.

The London lads – four or five

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

nationalities involved, and every one of them a gentleman – were captivated by the GAA club matches they attended over the weekend (St Joseph’s v Boyle in football, Oran v St Dominic’s in hurling).

The visitors sampled great Roscommon hospitality in Paddy Finn’s in Kilteevan, and in some establishments in town, including Gleeson’s, Regan’s and Down the Hatch. They absolutely loved the trip. A special thank you to Johnny Horan, and to the many other people here in Roscommon who helped out in any way.

FRIDAY

Local MEPs…

Ciaran Mullooly’s election to the European Parliament, confirmed in the early hours, is a very significant personal achievement for a man who is well known in these parts. The former RTE Midlands Correspondent was elected as an MEP in Midlands-North-West, representing the new alliance of Independents, Independent Ireland. Earlier, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan had taken the

first seat, after another very impressive electoral outing. See also ‘Monday’ in this column and full coverage on pages 16-17.

SATURDAY

Rossies win

Attending the Roscommon-Cavan game in Pearse Park in Longford today reminded me of my days covering the occasional game there when I was Editor of the Longford News. That was back in the early 1990s. While still a small and relatively modest ground, Glennon Brothers Pearse Park has undergone a fair amount of development over the years, and is a cosy, intimate venue. Roscommon were the better team, but they struggled to dispense with a Cavan side that scored some beautiful points.

After one or two moments of concern – most notably when Cavan got to within a point of Roscommon in the second half – Diarmuid Murtagh and Enda Smith led Davy Burke’s team to victory.

great shape, and Roscommon GAA are to be complimented on running this event with such smoothness. It was a great occasion.

MONDAY

Ming’s Aras hint

Having written a personal-type piece on Ciaran Mullooly (page 17), I must add my congratulations to Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, who secured a third term as an MEP with a second poll-topping performance. Poll-topper first time out in 2014, ‘Ming’ finished second on the first count in 2019, perhaps unsurprisingly surpassed on that occasion by the redoubtable Mairead McGuinness. Last week, ‘Ming’ was back in polltopping mode (78,214), and was first MEP across the line.

SUNDAY

Dubs’ invasion!

Roscommon Town was buzzing today from mid-morning. A blue wave descended on the town, with some green and red sprinkled in.

Dublin brought a huge crowd of supporters to today’s All-Ireland SFC group game against Mayo, the latter county no strangers to the Hyde, and always very well supported too.

But it was primarily a Dubs’ fest, at least in the hours before throw-in. There was a great atmosphere. On my way to the game, I was taken aback by how far out the Athlone Road vehicles were parked, the odd Dublin-registered taxi included.

The game itself was a mighty contest. Full credit to both sets of gladiators. This was a tremendous, honest, thrilling spectacle. It looked like Mayo had just secured a dramatic win, only for Ciaran Kilkenny’s epic ‘leap of faith’ – a wonderful piece of fielding – to inspire a last-gasp equaliser for the Dubs.

The atmosphere in the Hyde was brilliant. The new-look stadium was in

In media interviews at the count centre in Castlebar, MEP Flanagan made it quite clear that having now served as a councillor, TD and MEP, he is not ruling out running for President of Ireland in the (near) future. I am reminded of an amusing exchange between my later father (Rutledge Healy) and the late Roscommon TD Sean Doherty. At some point in the 1980s, the then Deputy Doherty called into our family pub in Rooskey. The uncrowned king of Cootehall and my father were quite friendly. Over a few drinks, the ever-charismatic Sean told my father that he might run for President of Ireland some day, adding “And if you’re ever up in Dublin, Rutledge, you’ll always have a place to stay!”

TUESDAY

Plot twist…

Social media provides evidence that Jessie Wallace (who plays Kat Slater in EastEnders) has been enjoying a break in Salthill Caravan Park this week.

My fervent hope is that she popped into a bar/hotel/business/passed a caravan with a TV… and attracted startled stares just as the iconic closing theme music of EastEnders was playing…

A summer to remember – take an adventure with a holiday loan from Roscommon Credit Union

Spread your costs and get away this summer

In an ideal world, you would have been saving towards a holiday each month ahead of summer. However, if you haven’t been, taking out a loan may be for you. By taking out a oneyear loan, you can spread the cost of the holiday instead of paying one lump sum out of pocket. The loan can go towards travel costs, buying flight or ferry tickets, booking accommodation, or boosting your spending money. The money can be paid into your account quickly and easily once your loan has been approved. So why wait? Don’t let the moment pass you by. Make unforgettable memories this year and see where a holiday loan from Roscommon Credit Union can take

you. Whether it’s a cruise, family trip, beach holiday, city break, solo travel, a couple’s getaway, or a lastminute holiday, we’ve got you covered. At Roscommon Credit Union we offer a dedicated, personal member service

and a repayment plan tailored to you with no fees or charges.

Borrow from your local cooperative Credit Unions have been recognised as the most reputable organisation in Ireland for the second year

in a row. This was based on a study carried out by RepTrak measuring key drivers of reputation: Citizenship, Conduct, Products and Services, and Workplace. Credit Unions took first place in trust to do the right thing, fair in the way it does

Nobody does weddings quite like the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon ...

Are you recently engaged and considering a short lead wedding or vow renewal? Because at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon, there are some key December dates in 2024/25 available which would suit anyone looking to celebrate a romantic Christmas wedding, civil union, humanist ceremony, or vow renewal.

The Abbey Hotel are holding a Summer Wedding Fair on Sunday 7th July featuring a live music showcase with the popular Heebie Jeebies band. Lots wedding supplier discounts/inspiration and complimentary mini makeovers with EL Make up on the day. T&C apply. Please call in from 2.00 to 5.00 pm. Admission is free and there will be complimentary refreshments for all newly engaged couples!

A bespoke wedding package can be tailored to suit couples’ style and budget. And special o ers for

select 2025 summer dates are also available.

Viewing appointments can be scheduled by calling the Abbey’s dedicated Wedding Manager Lisa on 090 6666211. Late evening and weekend viewings are available upon request to facilitate those working during the week. Enquiries can also be made to weddings@abbeyhotel.ie.

Grealy’s Abbey Hotel is a family-run business in the heart of Roscommon that has over sixty years’ expertise in hosting weddings. Their professional hands-on team will assist with every stage of the wedding planning journey.

“Our unrivalled wedding reputation spanning six decades and meticulous attention to detail is what makes the Abbey the preferred wedding venue choice for so many couples from all over the country”

business, ethical, open and transparent.

Additionally, Credit Unions have ranked in 8th place in a REDC study of the most emotionally connected brands in Ireland. For Irish men, Credit Unions ranked #3 in the list of most emotionally connected brands. In this study, Credit Unions took the lead in the financial services sector, surpassing Revolut (25), An Post Money (66), AIB (109), PTSB (139) and BOI (148).

Credit Unions are continuing to provide the necessary affordable finance to its members as the market leader with over 50% market share in the personal lending market. These results highlight the trust that members place in Roscommon Credit Union, as well as the recognition of a personalised, community-based approach in a financial cooperative as a crucial pillar of our community here in Roscommon.

said Geraldine Grealy, Director of SUMMER WEDDING FAIR SUNDAY 7th JULY 2-5pmBook your stand 086 3276584

said Geraldine Grealy, Director of Marketing at the Abbey. “Then there’s the added nostalgia and history; the hotel have been welcoming couples through the generations, since the early 1960s!”

She continued, noting: “Going that extra mile for our couples is important. We give all our couples access to our elite recommended wedding suppliers list as well as our special free gift to you when you book. Enquire today and let our family look after yours on your special day!”

To keep up to date with the Abbey, nd the hotel on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, and X (formerly Twitter). More information, and the Abbey’s wedding brochure, can be found online at abbeyhotel.ie

The Abbey Hotel are holding a Summer Wedding Fair on Sunday 7th July featuring a live music showcase with the popular Heebie Jeebies Band.

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

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

Road to be closed: L7055 Ardsallagh Woods Road from Hannons Hotel to Golf Club

Period of Closure: 9.30am to 2.00pm on Saturday 29th June 2024

Alternative Routes: via N61, N63 & L1812

Road to be closed: L7081 Turville from Galway Road Junction to Rahara Road Junction

Period of Closure: 11.15am to 12.45pm on Saturday 29th June 2024

Alternative Routes: via L1812, L7126 & N63

Reason for Closure: To facilitate Roscommon Harriers Club Road Race

Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services

FÓGRA MAIDIR LE BÓITHRE A DHÚNADH GO SEALADACH ACHT NA mBÓITHRE 1993, ALT 75

RIALACHÁIN UM BÓITHRE 1994, AIRTEAGAL 12

Tá cinneadh déanta ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin an bóthar atá leagtha amach sa sceideal thíos a dhúnadh ar feadh na dtréimhsí agus ar an gcúis a shonraítear thíos.

Bóthar le dúnadh: L7055 Bóthar Ardsallagh Woods ó Óstán Hannons go dtí an Club Gailf Tréimhse an Dúnta: 9.30am go 2.00pm Dé Sathairn an 29ú Meitheamh 2024

Bealaí Malartacha: tríd an N61, N63 & L1812

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

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

Road to be closed: R371 Ballyleague to Scramoge

Period of Closure: 9.30am to 3.30pm on 6th July 2024

An bóthar atá le dúnadh: L7081 Turville ó Acomhal Bhóthar na Gaillimhe go hAcomhal Bhóthar Ráth Ara Tréimhse an Dúnta: 11.15am go 12.45pm Dé Sathairn 29úMeitheamh 2024

An Chúis: Chun Rás Bóthair Chlub Harriers Ros Comáin a éascú Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services

Council Annual Meeting on Friday

The Annual Meeting of Roscommon County Council will take place tomorrow, Friday June 21st at 2.30pm in the Council chamber, Aras an Chontae.

This will be the rst meeting of the Council since the local elections earlier this month. The meeting will elect a new Cathaoirleach for the Council’s rst year of its ve year term and a Leas Cathaoirleach.

Positions will also be lled on a number of committees. The recent local elections resulted in the re-election of all twelve outgoing Councillors with six new members elected to Roscommon County Council.

Night and Day Festival

Alternative Routes: N63 Ballyleague to Roscommon N61 Roscommon to Four Mile House R368 Four Mile House to Farnbeg And vice versa

Reason for Closure: To facilitate Cycle Event associated with The Two Provinces Triathlon.

Objections in respect of the proposed closure may be made in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department or e-mailed to roads@roscommoncoco.ie to arrive not later than Tuesday 25th June 2024.

Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services

FÓGRA MAIDIR LE BÓITHRE A DHÚNADH GO SEALADACH ACHT NA mBÓITHRE 1993, ALT 75 RIALACHÁIN UM BÓITHRE 1994, AIRTEAGAL 12

Tá sé i gceist ag Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin an bóthar atá leagtha amach sa sceideal thíos a dhúnadh ar feadh na dtréimhsí agus an chúis atá sonraithe.

An bóthar le dúnadh: R371 Béal Átha Liag go Scramóg Tréimhse an Dúnta: 9.30am go dtí 3.30pm an 6ú Iúil 2023

Bealaí Malartacha: N63 Baile Liag go Ros Comáin N61 Ros Comáin go Teach na gCeithre Mhíle R368 Teach na gCeithre Mhíle go Farnbeg Agus an treo eile

Bell X1, Damien Dempsey, Gemma Hayes, Ash, The Undertones, Mick Flannery, Morgana and Cork group, The Frank and Walters are among the household names that will be taking to the stage at this year’s Night and Day Festival.

The festival returns to Boyle next weekend, from Friday, June 28th to Sunday, June 30th inclusive. The festival, now in its third year, will once again take place in the majestic surrounds of Lough Key Forest Park.

The festival is a strictly over 20s event, but those under 14 can enter for free when accompanied by an adult.  The Park is a natural amphitheatre for a festival of such scale. Visitors will not only be able to enjoy top class Irish and international acts but also the full range of activities that Lough Key Forest Park has to o er.

Tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.nightandday.ie where

Reason for Closure: Imeacht Rothaíochta a bhaineann le Trí-atlan Two Provinces a éascú.

Is féidir agóid maidir leis an dúnadh beartaithe a dhéanamh i scríbhinn chuig an Rannóg Bóithre agus Iompair nó ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig roads@roscommoncoco.ie le teacht tráth nach déanaí ná Dé hAoine 25ú Eanáir 2024.

Greg O’Donnell Stiúrthóir Gníomhach Seirbhísí

and girls

there are a range of ticketing options as well as helpful advice on how to get to the event and all you need to know to prepare. A weekend camping site ticket for one adult and two children is €149 plus a nominal booking fee.

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

diate booking is advisable due as tickets are selling fast ahead of the big day.

Night and Day Music Festival is proudly supported by Roscommon County Council, in association with Coillte, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Newstalk Radio, Extra.ie, Lough Key Distillery, Cancer Fund for Children, The White Hag Brewing Company and Well.Can’d Water.

Community Centre Investment Fund

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced €20 million in funding to support the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres across the country. Under the Community Centres Investment Fund 2024, community organisations will be supported with grants of between €10,000 and €100,000 to develop and enhance their existing community facilities. The scheme will be delivered in conjunction with Pobal.

All applicants must register as ‘users’ on the online Pobal portal in advance of the application process which will open on Monday 29th July. Groups are strongly advised to get their application and paperwork ready in advance of the application process opening on this date. The closing date for applications will be 29th August 2024.

There will be a number of online information events to assist potential applicants, the rst of which will take place on Tuesday 25th June. All materials to support applicants including access to the online portal, template application form, guidelines, FAQ, links to tutorials and details on information sessions can be found at the Department of Rural and Community Development website.

Boys

getting into the festive spirit in Strokestown Park House, one of the many Cruinniu na nÓg events that took place last Saturday across the county.

Roscommon Town named as ‘Best Kept Large Town’ in Ireland

an

newsbriefs

Get your tickets now for 1980s-themed disco fundraiser

Tickets are now available for a 1980s-themed, fancy dress disco which will be held on Friday, August 9th in Nancy’s Nightclub, Roscommon. Seamus Duke with be DJ on the night.

Music and dancing from 10 pm ‘til late, on what promises to be a great night for the community. All proceeds are in aid of Roscommon/Mayo Hospice. Tickets can be bought at various local outlets, including Molloy’s Bakery in Abbeytown, Fleming’s SuperValu and Donnellan & Co Lady on Main Steet and Hynes’ Pharmacy on Castle Street. Tickets will also be available on the night.

Al-Anon Family Group

resuming in Castlerea

Al-Anon Family Group meetings are recommencing from the 4th of July on, in Castlerea Family Resource Centre. They will run every Thursday evening at 8 pm.

The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve common problems. Al-Anon’s one purpose is to help families of alcoholics.

If this resonates with you, we welcome you on Thursday nights to join us for a cup of tea, a chat, and to give the programme a try.

Activator Poles taster sessions

Roscommon Libraries and Roscommon Sports Partnership have teamed up to launch an Activator Poles lending service.

Library patrons can now borrow Activator Poles from Roscommon, Boyle, Castlerea, Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen Libraries.

Laura Tully, ‘The Movement Mentor’, will facilitate free Activator Poles taster sessions on Wednesday, June 26th, at 11 am in Castlerea Library, and at 2 pm in Roscommon Library. To attend, please register in advance by calling 090 663 0853.

passes the entire island of Ireland and it allows some of the best villages and towns participating in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition in the Republic of Ireland to go up against towns and villages in Northern Ireland.

Taking to social media after the event, the Roscommon Tidy Towns group said that they were “delighted to announce that Roscommon Town has won the Best Kept Large Town for 2024 award at this year’s Best Kept Town Awards Ceremony”.

The group continued by thanking all who supported them throughout the process, saying: “Many thanks to our hard working volunteers and local residents, businesses, elected representatives and the Local Authority who supported us greatly during the last few months”.

Public meeting this evening on Ballintubber development plans

With summer finally on the way, these are exciting times for outdoor activities in the Ballintubber area!

Ballintubber Development Association are delighted that phase one of two of their priority projects are nearing completion.

The park development, located at the Old School House in the centre of the village, is phase one of a three-phase project to provide a seated park, children’s playground, and multi-sports area – with wheelchair-accessible parking on site. This project was funded by the De-

partment of Rural and Community Development, under the Town and Village renewal scheme 2021.

Ballintubber Development Association would like to acknowledge the huge support from Roscommon County Council, as well as the community of Ballintubber, who supported fundraisers. The park provides an accessible space for people of all ages to meet and will be a wonderful resource for the village and its visitors.

As part of developing the great outdoor resources in the Ballintub-

ber area, a jetty has been developed at Frenchlawn, just outside the village. This is funded under the Outdoor Recreational infrastructure Scheme 2021 and will provide a jetty for kayaking and access to the River Suck.

As part of this project, a 12km looped cycle route is also being developed. A second phase of the project will be completed in Dundermot on the neighbouring side of the river near Ballymoe. This will provide great opportunities for all the water enthusiasts in the area.

Again, Ballintubber Development Association acknowledges the great support of Roscommon County Council with this project. Their knowledge and experience have been invaluable for both projects.

A public meeting is being held in the Old School House in Ballintubber village on Thursday evening, June 20th, at 8 pm to update everyone on the progress to date on various projects and on the next steps involved. Everyone is welcome.

TOP: Members of the Ballintubber Development Association committee pictured at the newly-developed jetty in Frenchlawn.

LEFT: Members of the Ballintubber Development Association committee pictured at the park adjacent to the Old School House, which is currently under development and is in phase one of a three-phase project.

Roscommon Town was named the ‘Best Kept Large Town’ in Ireland on

Tuesday afternoon in the ‘Ireland’s Best Kept Town’ competition.

The winners of the allisland competition were announced on Tuesday at

awards ceremony in Belfast.

The competition encom-

Members of the Roscommon Tidy Towns group pictured after receiving the award for ‘Ireland’s Best Kept Large Town’ during Tuesday’s award ceremony in Belfast.

Open Day at Lough Ree RNLI boathouse this Saturday

Lough Ree RNLI is throwing open the doors of its €1.2 million boathouse with an open day for members of the public on Saturday next, June 22nd, at Coosan Point, Athlone, Co Westmeath. Ever-present on the lake since 2012, the charity and its volunteers have assisted more than 1,500 people in over 500 call-outs over the past twelve years.

Starting at 1 pm this Saturday, the public will have an opportunity to visit and explore the new facility including state-of-the-art boat hall, crew room and the Paul Browne Room, a training

room named in memory of Lough Ree RNLI’s first station mechanic. The volunteer boat crew will also be on hand to demonstrate the launch and display the ‘on the water’ capabilities of the charity’s Atlantic B Class lifeboat, the ‘Tara Scougall’. The ‘on call’ crew will also be on standby to respond to any call-out in the course of the afternoon. Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Operations Manager Kevin Ganly says, “We are looking forward to welcoming the public to the boathouse on Saturday. It is a way of showing our appreciation of the generous support the

charity has received from the public in the midlands and beyond over the years”.

Younger visitors will have the added attraction of face-painting and fun in the boat hall, while colleagues from other emergency services including Gardai, Defence Forces, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service will also all be in attendance – unless called into service.

Visitors will have an opportunity to purchase RNLI merchandise from the charity’s shop in the station and light refreshments will be served. The open day concludes at 4 pm.

Tibohine Flying Club presents over €8k to Childhood Cancer Ireland

Last weekend, Tibohine Flying Club were pleased to present a cheque to Laura Cullinan, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland, for the sum of €8,648, which was raised at their recent charity Fly-in. This brings the total amount raised by Tibohine Flying Club for various charities over the last ten years to approximately €56,500. Numerous aircraft, pilots and patrons contributed to this year’s very successful event.

James Morrisroe (centre) and members of Tibohine Flying Club pictured presenting a cheque for €8,648 to Laura Cullinan, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland, following their recent charity Fly-in.

Glenamaddy Musical Society Table Quiz

Glenamaddy Musical Society invites you to a Quiz Night in Jim Petes Pub, Glenamaddy on Friday, 28th of June 2024 at 9 pm. €40 per table of 4. Cash prize for the winning team. To book a table please email glenamaddymusicalsociety25@gmail.com or text Kate on 087 3901822.

Pilgrimage to Lough Derg

A one-day pilgrimage to Lough Derg will take place on Sunday, 25th of August. Leaving Ballyleague Hall at 7 am. Enquiries to Mary at 043-3321969. Booking essential.

Athlone and Midlands Samaritans bag packing

Athlone and Midlands Samaritans will be bag packing in Dunnes Stores, Roscommon on Friday, June 21st, and Saturday, June 22nd, to raise money for their services. Your support would be much appreciated. The Samaritans are available on Freephone on 116 123, 24 hours a day, if you need to talk about anything that is troubling you.

Is proud to be the first law firm in Ireland to join

four-day working week

Terry Leyden, Honorary Consul of Azerbaijan, pictured with Archbishop Luis Mariano Montemayor, Apostolic Nuncio in Ireland during a reception on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Slovenia.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Family getaways… Jimmy’s winning matches, but Donegal has won us over!

Our columnist Frank Brandon on the value of a family getaway, receiving some ‘Ireland’s Own’ highlights from a reader… and musings on a busy sporting weekend with plenty of ups and downs…

Way back in 1992, in a speech to mark her thenforty years on the throne, the late queen of England, Queen Elizabeth, told the assembled audience of chosen dignitaries that she and her family had had an “annus horribilis”. As a very bad student of Latin in my secondary school days, even I was able to figure out that she meant they had had a horrible year.

And while that description might be a little too strong to describe 2024 for my immediate family, there is little doubt that it has been a difficult year for us too – right from the very start, up to the present moment. And so, a few weeks ago, we decided we could all do with a little break and therefore booked two lovely houses (side by side) in the Portbeg Holiday Homes in the Donegal seaside resort of Bundoran.

Last Monday week, complete with our four grandchildren, we headed off on our mini-holidays, thereby fulfilling a promise we had made

five years earlier. In April 2019, Carol, myself, and our four children (adults by now) had spent a few lovely days in Bundoran and decided we would do something similar every year. Then our ‘great friend’ Covid appeared, and all plans for travel, breaks, and holidays were put on hold. Anyway, on the Monday afternoon we all arrived safely into the Donegal town, and spent a couple of delightful days enjoying the beautiful scenery and (remarkably) the fabulous weather. Sadly for the children, a lot of the attractions weren’t open, most especially the amusements and Waterworld, both of which were to reopen this weekend.

However, the good people of the Great Northern Hotel were happy to make their superb facilities available to us, and we all made use of the pool, while some of the older folk (that’s me) had a delightful time in the jacuzzi. I was never in the Great Northern before, but it is a really imposing and impressive hotel, and we all partook of lovely food there after our exertions in the pool. In 2019, on the occasion of our last visit, we had no grandchildren, and so there was a more social side to our nights. We visited the Chasin’ Bull pub, where the music of the Banging Yokes proved more enticing for our younger tourists than for Carol and myself, before ending up in the quieter O’Connell’s pub across the road. This time, only a few of us got out for the quiet

Reader’s own ‘Ireland’s Own’ cut-outs…

On November 26th 1902, the first edition of Ireland’s Own hit the shelves, and while I have never been an avid reader, I have to admit that it’s some achievement to be still going strong after all these years.

Our own local bard, the late Vinny Keaveny, was a regular contributor to the magazine down through the years, and he had many brilliant poems published during his lifetime. Obviously, one of my readers (maybe the only one) is a present-day fan of Ireland’s Own, because in the post today, along with the usual supply of bills and statements, I got a number of cut-outs from a recent edition of the magazine.

There was a full-page feature on Martin Logan, a man who was born on Mount Mary outside Creggs, whom I have

talked about many times over the years and who has his own hugely successful ‘Irish in the UK’ programme on Sky TV – a show which, in his own words, keeps the Irish in the UK and those back home in Ireland connected. Recently, Martin was presented with a major award for his TV show, at a huge Pairc Irish Festival in Birmingham – an event headlined by Van Morrison, Nathan Carter, and the Tumbling Paddies.

Another gem from the cutouts was the story of the political party Clann na Talmhan, founded by Michael Donnellan, who had played Gaelic football for Galway and won an All-Ireland with them in 1925. Donnellan stated that at a meeting in Creggs in June 1943, he was called a “Hitler” because he intended to “drive the professional

politicians out of Ireland, just as Hitler drove the Jews out of his country”. I always knew about Parnell’s visit to our village, but as Donnellan was well known for his antiSemitic views, maybe that’s why I never heard of his visit until now.

There was loads of other stuff, including a few pages on Fr Jack O’Brien, who was born in Donamon in 1918. He was Army Chaplain to the soldiers of the Allied Forces during the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944, and six years later, he was murdered by the North Korean Army after being captured during the three-year-long Korean War. Fr Jack, who is honoured by a monument in Seoul, is one of 81 modern-day martyrs who have been put forward by the Korean Catholic Church for beatification.

pint, but we found a pure gem of a traditional pub, the Railway Bar, right on the Main Street. Myself and Paul were looking for a good place to spend an hour or two, and the minute we walked in we knew we had found it – everyone was more than friendly, and before we knew it we felt totally at home.

After a while we were joined by a few more of our crew, and as we got to talk to more people, we found out that the owners were the Gilligans – Felicity and Raissa – and in the course of a long conversation with both of them, mostly about horses, we found out that they are good friends with the newly-elected local councillor Larry Brennan, of the renowned Down The Hatch pub in Roscommon!

Anyway, all good things come to an end, and closing time eventually came and we headed back to our holiday homes. But if you ever find yourself in Bundoran and want a real Irish pub with a warm welcome and a superb pint of Guinness, call into the Railway Bar and tell them you know Larry Brennan – that should be worth a free pint at least! Don’t mention me or you might be thrown out!

For young children, while the bigger attractions were not open, there are still a couple of really nice playgrounds, where our four grandchildren (aged from just gone three all the way down to seven months) thoroughly

enjoyed themselves on the swings and slides and seesaws. Along with their visits to the kiddie pool in the Great Northern, as well as lovely walks along the seaside, they had a great time on their holidays!

Sadly, even though we had booked the houses until Thursday morning, our Junior B footballers had a refixed game against Oran on the Wednesday evening, and as the very important one-third manager of the Junior Bs, and since our two sons Mark and Paul (who drank Lucozade in the Railway Bar the night before) were meant to play, we had to cut our visit short by a day. It was all worth it however, as we won a tough game by a couple of points.

And so the truth is that we really enjoyed our time together – it’s very seldom that every member of a family can get away together. There were no rows or dramas, and the location was superb! The houses were clean, comfortable, and convenient. The town itself is nice, the seaside and beach and the various walks are spectacular, and the Railway Bar is top class. Before we left, we had a toastie and stuff in Roasted and Toasted, which is also well worth a visit. As I said, a lot of the pubs weren’t opening until this week, but that did not affect our enjoyment – Jimmy’s winning matches, but Donegal has won us over!

This time, please God, there will be no Covid and we will be back again before too long!

Sporting favourites

‘drop the ball’

It’s Monday morning as I write, and after a tremendous weekend of sport I have seldom been as depressed. Every team or sportsperson I supported failed to get the desired results, with Munster and Leinster going down in rugby, Galway footballers throwing away a strong winning position against Armagh to draw a game they had to win (and should have won), Mayo failing to beat the Dubs in a similar fashion, and finally, Rory McIlroy blowing the best chance he may ever have to win another major –having three bogeys in the last four holes to hand the title to American Bryson DeChambeau.

At least for all you Rossies out there, there was a great win over Cavan in the scorefest in Longford on Saturday. And to improve things for me, Creggs won their Junior B game against St Croan’s on Friday evening, and on Sunday in Glenamaddy, our daughter Tara won in the Connacht Showjumping Grand Prix Show.

And finally…

If Creggs Junior Bs can play two games in two days, I find it hard to understand why there is so much talk about some county teams having to play three games in three weeks.

From what I saw over the weekend (excluding the Rossies, whom I didn’t see), most of the time teams are walking or strolling around with the ball, and only occasionally is there any fast, direct running.

So, as athletes training as hard as they are, they shouldn’t be that tired and should have no problem with the extra game.

Ballymurray NS is county winner in Art Competition

Last year, pupils of Ballymurray National School were confirmed as the overall County Roscommon winners of the NARGC Schools Art Competition. The competition was run in conjunction with Roscommon Regional Game Council with the theme ‘Native Animals in their Habitat’ and was part of the wider ‘Carers of the Countryside’ programme.

The school was nominated by Tremane Gun Club, who recently had the pleasure of presenting the winner in each class with an art set and the overall county prize of €600 worth of supplies, which included

native bird educational signs, bird boxes and feeders, native trees, wildflower seeds and nature-themed chalk boards.

Overall Ballymurray winner Laura Heneghan’s depiction of a cock pheasant in its natural habitat later went on to win the overall county competition for her school.

The aim of the competition was to promote biodiversity and conservation, as well as a better understanding of native animals and their habitats, which continue to be key objectives of local gun clubs, such as Tremane.

Ladies Day at the Abbey Hotel!

The highly anticipated Ladies Day takes place at Roscommon Racecourse on this Monday, July 8th, and what better way to continue the festivities than by enjoying some post-races dining and jazz music at the four-star Abbey Hotel, Roscommon!

The Abbey’s Most Stylish Lady competition will be running from 8 pm to 10 pm in the front bar, with TV fashion stylist Marietta Doran acting as special guest judge on the day. You could be in for a chance to win a gorgeous hamper as well as com-

RWN Project ECCO Sustainable Living Event

The Roscommon Women’s Network Project ECCO (Empowering Communities with Circular Opportunities) is inviting you to an afternoon of free demonstrations aimed at giving you the advice you need to save money, reduce waste and live more sustainably.

This event will take place next Wednesday, June 26th, from 1 pm to 4.30 pm at the RWN CycleUp Pop-Up Shop in the Harrison Centre (beside TESCO), Roscommon Town.

Join us on the day to explore the simple ways in which you could begin to live more sustainably, from learning clothing repairs, composting/mulching/ liquid feed, planting for small spaces, bike maintenance and repair, furniture painting, and upcycled bird and bat boxes.

All Roscommon ECCO project participants have come together to design and deliver this event, and will be delighted to offer practical solutions that

benefit the community, the environment, and our pockets, and promote the principles of reduce, reuse, and repair. Current ECCO participants come from all around the county and include members of various local volunteer groups. New ECCO participants will be recruited on the day, so pop along to find out more!

The venue for this event is the gorgeous setting of the RWN CycleUp Pop-Up Shop in the Harrison Centre in Roscommon town, giving you the opportu-

nity to check out our fabulous upcycled textiles range.

Project ECCO, led by the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin in collaboration with Tait House Community Enterprise, EDI Longford, and Roscommon Women’s Network, aims to empower and build capacity within communities to develop new circular economy opportunities. Through these activities, the project, funded by the Community Climate Action Programme, will spark awareness and exploration of the circular economy, address skill gaps, support training, and help realise opportunities in underserved communities to tackle climate change.

The Community Climate Action Programme: Climate Education, Capacity Building and Learning by Doing (Strand 2) is funded by the Government of Ireland through the Department of Environment Climate and Communications.

plimentary afternoon tea. Post-races cocktails/beer with finger food and jazz music entertainment will take place in the front bar from 9.30 pm to 12.30 pm, and costs €25 per person. There is also an exciting new summer cocktail menu available. Pre-booking is essential.

One night’s stay, breakfast, and afternoon tea/ prosecco costs just €120 per person sharing (based on availability). Afternoon tea/prosecco will be served from 2 pm-5 pm and must be pre-booked. The cost for pre-races afternoon tea/ prosecco is €35 per person. For more information, or to make a booking, phone 090 6626240 or email events@abbeyhotel.ie. Keep up with the Abbey Hotel and any future events by finding the hotel on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.

Pictured, centre, is Dee Maddock from Stra an, Co. Kildare, winner of the 2023 Most Stylish Lady title at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon post-Ladies Day event. She is pictured with Guest Judge Marietta Doran, left, and event organiser Geraldine Grealy. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictures are the Ballymurray NS prize-winners Anna Melia, Clodagh Fergus, Laura Heneghan (overall winner), Sophie McGarry, and Coman Connaughton.

DECLARATION OF RESULT ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

DECLARATION OF RESULT

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

LOCAL ELECTION – 7 JUNE 2024

LOCAL ELECTION – 7 JUNE 2024

Surname Other Name(s) Address

The following is the result of the Poll taken on June 7, 2024 to fill the six seats in the local electoral area of Athlone LEA, Roscommon County Council.

ATHLONE LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Description

Occupation Name of Political Party, if any

Kelly Emer Creeher, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

Ward Tony Carrick View, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Occupational Therapist Non-Party

Public Representative Non-Party Naughten John Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

Fallon Laurence Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Farmer and Public Representative Fine Gael

Farmer Non-Party Keogh John Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamulla, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

Connolly Domnick Moyliss, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon.

Surname Other Name(s) Address

Name and address of proposer, if any

Public Representative and Solicitor Fianna Fáil Anne Kelly, Hodson Bay, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Retired Salesman Fine Gael

The following is the result of the Poll taken on June 7, 2024 to fill the six seats in the local electoral area of Boyle LEA, Roscommon County Council.

BOYLE LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Description

Occupation Name of Political Party, if any

Byrne Valerie Lisduff, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

County Councillor Non-Party Cull Leah Tullynahaw, Arigna, Co. Roscommon.

Name and address of proposer, if any

Trainee Psychotherapist Sinn Féin James F. McGivern, Derrynagallion, Arigna, Co. Roscommon

Frain Micheál Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Fire Fighter Non-Party Joe Duffy, Cloverhill, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Moylan Sean Quarryfield, Castleland, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. An Post Manager Fianna Fáil Rita Moylan, Castleland, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon Callaghan Liam Rathmoyle, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Crosby Tom Ballytoohey, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

Surname Other Name(s)

Address

Farmer and Public Representative Fine Gael

Public Representative and Businessman Non-Party

The following is the result of the Poll taken on June 7, 2024 to fill the six seats in the local electoral area of Roscommon LEA, Roscommon County Council.

ROSCOMMON LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Occupation

Fitzmaurice Paschal Ballindrimlea, Castlerea.

McDermott Marty 56 Oldwood, Roscommon Town.

Waldron Anthony (Tony) Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Dineen Nigel Constituency Office, Main St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Name of Political Party, if any

Public Representative and Shopkeeper Fianna Fáil

County Councillor Non-Party

Auctioneer and Public Representative Independent Ireland

Scahill Gareth Fortagustus, Ballinlough, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Retailer Fine Gael

Caitlín

Name and address of proposer, if any

Shop Manager Fianna Fáil Bernard Kearney, Grange, Four Mile House, Roscommon.

Brennan Larry Down the Hatch Pub, Church St., Roscommon Town. Publican Fianna Fáil

Conneely Returning Officer, Roscommon County Council

Successful Men’s Health event in Roscommon

The benefits of movement, healthy diet, nurturing good emotional and mental health were outlined to a large attendance at a special event in Roscommon County Library last Friday. The Irish Heart Foundation’s Mobile Health Unit were also present to facilitate blood pressure checks for members of the public.

The event was organised by Roscommon County Council’s Library service, in conjunction with the Community and Enterprise section of Roscommon County Council, as well as Roscommon Sports Partnership. The event coincided with Men’s National Health Week. Earlier in the week, separate Men’s Healthy Week initiatives took place in Ballaghaderreen and Fourmilehouse.

Proceedings began with a session of ‘Chair Yoga’ organised by Marese Cregg, followed by an Activator Poles demonstration and a Healthy and Wellbeing talk with Laura Tully, who is known for her work as the ‘Movement Mentor’ under the guise of the Roscommon ‘Fit Farmers’ initiative.

Following Laura’s address, Roscommon County Library and Roscommon Sports Partnership launched their new

activator pole lending service on the day. The initiative is funded by Roscommon County Council’s Community Recognition Fund. The service is available from all of the county’s five library services.

Special guest at the event was Ro-

scommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador Paddy Joe Burke who spoke about the importance of managing one’s mental and emotional health. He stressed the importance of everyone, particularly men, reaching out to talk to each other as a means

of providing mutual support to those who may be vulnerable or in need of support.

The Men’s Healthy Week Event in the County Library was a collaborative initiative involving Roscommon County Council and Roscommon County Li-

brary Services, in particular the Healthy Ireland Co-Ordinators from Roscommon County Council and Roscommon County Library, the Age Friendly Programme Manager, Roscommon County Council and Roscommon Sports Partnership.

New approach to family mental health recovery with upcoming website launch

On Friday, June 28th, a groundbreaking website – the first of its kind in Ireland – will be launched at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Castlebar, County Mayo, commencing at 11 am.

This innovative platform is designed to provide muchneeded support to families and friends who are aiding a loved

one through mental health challenges.

Recognising that mental health challenges affect not just the individual but also their support network, the Health Service Executive (HSE), in collaboration with Mental Health Ireland (MHI), now employs ten Family Peer Support Workers (FPSWs)

within the Adult Mental Health services who utilise their lived experience to support other family members.

Dr Gráinne Fadden, who will be a keynote speaker at this event, has worked tirelessly with families and knows how important it is for families to be supported in these circumstances.

In the Connacht region, the Family Peer Support Service is currently available in counties Roscommon, Galway, and Mayo.

This website embodies the essence of true collaboration as it has been co-produced by Family Peer Support Workers, family members who have used or are using the service,

and health professionals from both public and community services.

This new website will provide crucial support and resources for these families and friends, ensuring they do not feel alone in their journey.

The launch event is open to all, and refreshments will be served. This occasion marks

a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of families and friends, highlighting Ireland’s commitment to comprehensive mental health care. For further details on the Family Peer Support Service and to explore the resources available, please visit the new website after its official launch.

Sheila Coyle, Caitriona MacCarthy, Mark Keaveny, and Aisling Dunne (back) pictured with Paddy Joe Burke, Lorraine Keane, and Bernie Kearney (front) last Friday at the men’s health event in Roscommon County Library. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Elaine Igoe, Kieran Shaughnessy, Elle-May Coen, and Lorraine Keane pictured with Sandra Turner, Martin McWalter, and Ruairí Ó hAodha at the recent men’s health event in Roscommon County Library. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Scenes from the recent Men’s Health event, which took place last Friday in Roscommon County Library. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

The life and times of ‘Ming’… the 2024 update!

Poll-topping ‘Ming’ on the issues that continue to drive his work…

< ALANNAH ITA HEALY

Prior to his re-election to the European Parliament being confirmed a few days later, MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan was an interested observer at the Roscommon local election count in the Hyde Centre.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, the Castlerea native discussed how although local and European politics are different worlds, the issues being dealt with on the European level often link in with major concerns at home.

“Obviously in terms of local politics you have your bread and butter issues like how much money is going towards certain things”, he explained, “and of course a major concern is around Lough Funshinagh, whether it’s going to completely flood the community if something isn’t done urgently.

“But as well, if you take an issue like Gaza; that is an international question that also plays into the immigration issue.

“Whether it’s Gaza, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine… we know the national implications. If it’s not dealt with properly, people are forced to flee their homes. And we saw how immigration became a huge issue in both elections”.

Similarly, he referenced how issues like international trade

‘There’s

< ALANNAH ITA HEALY

may not initially seem particularly relevant to local people, until “trade agreements allow super-trawlers to come in and destroy local fishing industries” – with the now three-term MEP further discussing the huge importance of tackling agricultural concerns.

“In my younger days, as a ‘townie’, I wouldn’t have had a massive interest in farming”, he admitted. “But I’ve worked out over time how much it can be the be-all and end-all in politics in these areas; towns like Castlerea, Ballaghaderreen, Ballyhaunis – they’d only be a quarter of the size if it wasn’t for the agricultural community.

“How we produce our food is the most important thing”, he continued. “We’ve had a famine in this country; we know what it’s like to go without food”.

Another issue touched upon by ‘Ming’ during his chat with the Roscommon People was mental health services in Ireland, particularly within the context of neurodivergence, with the politician drawing on his own experience of having been recently diagnosed with autism.

“We have a situation in Ireland where you cannot get an autism diagnosis through the public health system, you have to go private and pay for it”, he explained. “And I was conscious of this when I disclosed my

diagnosis, because while it was very significant for me and, I felt, very important to do, I know it’s a total luxury for most adults in Ireland”.

He also highlighted the disproportionate way in which women are less likely to be diagnosed, because of how they are socialised to mask/conform to societal ideals: “Growing up, women are told to cop on and get on with it, because (neurodivergent stims, etc) are seen as ‘unladylike’”. He described the lack of publicly funded and adequately provided services in Ireland as

“horrific”, saying, “Imagine if you had a situation where you broke your leg and had to go to a charity to get it fixed – or worse still, that when you did, there weren’t enough people there to help, or the waiting list was months’ long.

“That’s what’s happening with neurodivergence. That’s what’s happening with mental health services. And that has to change”, he said. “Ireland is one of the richest countries in the world and we’re leaving people behind”.

The MEP continued: “I’ve to

thank my youngest daughter, who’s nineteen and was also diagnosed autistic, which led to my diagnosis”, he continued. “She’s helped me realise more about this than any expert could’ve”.

‘Ming’ described the experience as having been an invaluable one in many ways because, “I thought I was very openminded. But you always have blind spots, and the experience called me out on that and made me more aware”, he said, telling the People that prior to engaging properly with the topic,

he’d had unfounded “biases”, “judgements” and “misunderstandings” around neurodivergence that he’s since been able to rectify.

He explained that it was an important lesson in being open to evolve and to listen and to learn, and also in the immense value a diagnosis can have in giving people answers and helping direct them to the resources they need – something he noticed both for himself and his family.

“It just shows you”, he said, “listen to your children. There’s a saying: ‘You’ll only be as happy as your unhappiest child’. Well, I’m quite happy now because my unhappiest child isn’t that unhappy any more”.

MEP Flanagan topped the poll in Midlands-North-West and was deemed elected on Thursday night last.

“I knew what was coming, what to expect. I’ve developed a standard strategy where I try to call to every town I can, and every business along the way, and that is always invaluable.

“Except of course this time, I wasn’t telling people about what I’d potentially do – this time, I was telling them what I had done, and what financial benefits it had for the constituency.

“As my campaign slogan said – I understand the job!”

an appetite for progressive politics’

Isabelle Flanagan, daughter of MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, was the Castlerea politician’s campaign manager in the recent European Elections. Isabelle sat down with the Roscommon People at the Hyde Centre on the occasion of the recent count to discuss their successful European election campaign and to talk all things political.

Referring to the success of newer candidates in this year’s local elections – naming Sinn Féin’s Leah Cull and independent Emer Kelly as examples – Flanagan spoke about an appetite for “something different” in Roscommon politics.

Expressing disappointment at the lack of female representation in politics and raising her concern over what she sees as an insufficient focus on women’s issues, the Castlerea woman argued that the County Council is not reflective of the growing diversity in Roscommon society in terms of colour, sexuality and gender.

She clarified that while female perspectives should take a central role in tackling such issues, responsibility doesn’t and shouldn’t have to fall solely on women politicians’ shoulders, citing her own father’s work on period poverty as an example: “When it comes to stuff like periods, endometriosis, PCOS”, she commented, “I don’t see certain male councillors talking about that. We need the right kind of women and the right kind of men. It has to be based on ideology”.

This was Flanagan’s first time to work in an official capacity as her father’s campaign manager. She told the People that while she contributed to his 2019 campaign, this time around she was “much more involved” and “doing a lot more, such as social media (outreach)” on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter/X, and Facebook.

“‘We can support say, farmers, and also these issues at the same time… farmers are not just farmers – farmers can have autism, or need an abortion, whatever it may be’

cally involve “going to say, (for example) Roscommon town, visiting businesses, speaking to people, and taking pictures to post before moving onto the next place so people could see us actively engaging with the different communities, especially the smaller ones”.

Flanagan said that her experience of canvassing confirmed her belief that people are hungry for change at the moment, and that while more traditional issues like agriculture remain key concerns, she believes the tide has been shifting regarding progressive issues as well.

the council elections”, she lamented. “I was going to run myself, only I thought focusing on the Europe campaign this year would be more impactful because of how much legislation they’re responsible for.

“There has been no alternative in Roscommon for so long, and we’re only starting to see it now with the likes of say, Leah Cull, which is great, but overdue”.

Flanagan believes it’s not a tug-of-war between the county’s more traditional priorities such as “agriculture and rural issues” and people’s evolving progressiveness when it comes to gender, sexuality, disability, etc.

“I thought it was important to reach and connect with younger voters that way”, she explained, “because a lot of people were unsure about who to vote for and I think his

policies would be more in line with them than other candidates, so it was about communicating all that.

(MEP Flanagan’s)

“We did 238 towns in total”, she told the People, explaining this would typi-

“I think Roscommon gets a bad name for being stuck in the olden days or something, especially with the gay marriage vote and how so many of our politicians didn’t support repeal”, she said, noting she believes this characterisation isn’t reflective of today’s Roscommon, and that she wishes there were more candidates who were reflective of local people’s evolving values.

“We don’t get a real opportunity to vote for very progressive people in

“We can have both. We can support say, farmers, and also these issues at the same time. Because it’s not just farmers in Roscommon, and farmers are not just farmers – farmers can have autism, or need an abortion, whatever it may be.

“We deserve a lot better in Roscommon”, she commented. “We deserve proper representation on all fronts”.

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan and his daughter, Isabelle, who was his campaign manager in the recent European Election campaign, pictured at the Dr Hyde Centre during the local election count. Photo: Kieran Croghan

EuropeanELECTIONS 2024

According to the Central Statistics Office, as of the 2022 census, Roscommon was home to 70,259 people. While not having the lowest population of the 15 counties that make up the European Parliament constituency of Midlands-North-West, predicting that Roscommon would be home to not one but two MEPs following the election would have been a brave call.

On June 7th gone, 679,946 constituents of Midlands-North-West took to the polls to cast their votes and elect five MEPs.

Incumbent MEP and poll-topper, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan (Castlerea) was home and dry from the first count. He polled 78,214 first preferences before being elected having reached the quota (113,325) on the 19th count, having gathered 118,754 votes.

First-time political candidate and former RTE correspondent, Ciaran Mullooly of Independent Ireland (a Longford native who is resident in Ballyleague) and backed by one-time ‘Ming’ ally Michael Fitzmaurice TD, was elected without reaching the quota on the 21st count with 88,177 votes, when all other

Double Euro boost for Roscommon

candidates were eliminated and Flanagan’s surplus was redistributed.

The third MEP candidate in the race with Roscommon connections was former Irish Times columnist John Waters. Originally from Castlerea, Mr Waters secured 13,692 first preferences and was eliminated following the 11th count.

Between the 19th and the 21st and final count, five MEPs were elected, three without reaching the quota.

For the next five years, the MEPs for Midlands-North-West, in the order they were deemed elected are: Luke ‘Ming’

Flanagan (Independent); Barry Cowen (Fianna Fáil); Maria Walsh (Fine Gael); Nina Carberry (Fine Gael); and Ciaran Mullooly (Independent Ireland).

Sinn Féin shock

The biggest upset was dealt to Sinn Féin. The party failed to retain MEP Chris MacManus’ seat and despite a 57% transfer of votes to his running mate Michelle Gildernew, she too failed to get elected.

Fine Gael double

No strangers to shocking the electorate in European elections, Fine Gael

managed to retain two seats, including re-electing Maria Walsh MEP and getting first-time candidate and former jockey Nina Carberry over the line.

Fianna Fáil comeback

Having lost all representation in the European Parliament in the region in 2014, Fianna Fáil ran a risky three-candidate strategy but ultimately delivered a seat with Offaly TD Barry Cowen getting elected, bringing to an end (at least for now) the Cowen dynasty in Dáil Éireann.

From the Cavan Leader to Brussels, with happy times in between

Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy reflects on a long-time friend and former journalistic colleague’s rise to MEP status…

The first time I ever met Ciaran Mullooly was on the sideline at a GAA club game in Longford. It was 1986. Neither he or I were manager or sub; he was a confident Longford Leader journalist, I a shy cub reporter on one of my first outings.

Ciaran was friendly, welcoming and full of quips. Thus began a close friendship that continues to this day.

Within a year or so of that first meeting, Ciaran and I were dispatched to Cavan by our boss, the late, great newspaperman Eugene McGee. The Longford Leader had opened a sister title, the Cavan Leader, daring to take on the mighty Anglo Celt. Ciaran would run the enterprise for McGee, while I took up a position as sports reporter, Mr Mullooly my direct ‘line manager’.

It was a fine newspaper, but the public’s unbreakable loyalty to ‘the Celt’ – that and a costly legal outing or two – led to the demise of the new Cavan paper after a couple of years.

Before that happened, and before Ciaran headed for Shannonside Radio, we had great times/ escapades together with our colleagues in Cavan (a great town, then and now).

Indeed Ciaran and I shared a house in Cavan for a period of time. Parked outside were our

cars, which were bangers (well, mine certainly was). These were days of regular impoverishment, no doubt because we struggled to link the phenomenon of being broke by midweek with our fondness for a night out. We shared an inability to make a week’s wages last for anything like… a week. We had great fun.

One Good Friday, alarmed at the prospect of not being able to get a drink in the Republic (pubs closed on Good Friday in those days), we travelled into Northern Ireland with a work colleague and found an establishment where we had a great night in the company of a few locals who were, I suspect, of a different political persuasion to us. We survived it.

My wife Fiona, and Ciaran’s wife Angela, also became very good friends. Many years later (2005) on the very same day and in the same hospital (Portiuncula), Fiona gave birth to our third daughter, Ciara and Angela gave birth to the Mulloolys’ first son, Bryan.

In latter years, Ciaran wrote a column for the Roscommon Champion while Fiona and I were there, and more recently he penned one for the Roscommon People. We’ve even launched eachother’s books.

If you’ve read this far, it is hard-

ly necessary (well, it probably is) for me to declare an interest on the matter of my old friend’s elevation to member of the European Parliament last week. It’s been fascinating watching this journey unfold. The County Longford native (now resident in Ballyleague) has had political ambitions for many years (Fianna Fáil made regular overtures to him). The slick and comprehensive campaign run by Ciaran and his team paid off just over a week ago, not least because of the Independent Ireland candidate’s air of positivity, commu-

nication skills, good humour and energy. (As an aside, I know that our mutual friend, the late and lamented Mick McCormack, would have been enthusiastically first out with the camera in Castlebar in the early hours of Friday morning).

Unaware at the time that Ciaran would declare as a candidate, I introduced him as a speaker at this year’s Suck Valley Way Conference as a man of great ideas and energy, a person who gets things done. On Monday, his first day in Brussels, he was left

under no illusions about how intense the spotlight will be now, with severe criticism of his response to the passing of the Nature Restoration Law.

His new role will be a learning curve, but without any political or personal bias, I can say with absolute confidence that Ciaran Mullooly will bring his great energy, flair for coming up with new ideas/solutions, and a ‘can do’ approach to his work as an MEP. He has been an outstanding community activist in Ballyleague/Lanesboro, and across Longford and

Roscommon (the Lough Ree Access for All project would never have been launched were it not for his determination and drive).

A native of Killinure in the parish of Rathcline, Ciaran’s media career took him from the provincial press to Shannonside Radio, and later to a long stint as the national broadcaster’s Midlands Correspondent. Now a new chapter opens as he begins his work as an Independent Ireland MEP.

I suppose a small loan before pay day is out of the question?

Newly-elected MEP Ciaran Mullooly celebrates.

Roscommon teachers celebrated at Food Dudes presentation day

Primary school teachers from County Roscommon recently joined teaching colleagues from across the region for a Food Dudes Presentation Day at the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon to celebrate the achievements of schools that have completed their four-year participation in the award-winning Food Dudes Programme. The four-year curriculumlinked programme includes

a year of intervention, followed by three in-school Food Dudes Weeks, aimed at promoting health eating habits amongst primary schoolchildren.

The healthy eating programme encourages children to eat more fresh produce and is based on repeated tastings of fresh fruit and vegetables, rewards and positive role models.

The Food Dudes Presentation Days provide teach-

ers with an opportunity to network and feel part of a community of change. Ideas about ways in which the Food Dudes programme can be integrated into the curriculum and daily routines are shared, and peer to peer support is encouraged.

A new and improved Food Dudes programme is currently being rolled out in schools and includes new varieties of fruits and veg-

The Foot Clinic… providing chiropody services locally

Locations in Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon

The Foot Clinic, with locations in Roscommon, Boyle, and Athlone, treats a variety of common podiatric problems such as ingrown toenails, verruca, corns, callus, athletes foot and diabetic footcare. In addition to foot-specific problems, oftentimes leg, lower back, ankle, knee and hip strain can be directly attributed to poor posture and gait, arising from incorrect footwear.

The Foot Clinic also provides a full chiropody service, in addition to biomechanical assessment. This assessment analyses walking patterns, and in turn, orthotic supports and exercise programmes may be recommended, which can greatly assist with general foot, knee, hip and back pain.

The clinic stocks a range of competi-

tively priced products to assist with foot problems, such as fallen arches, hammer toes, ankle pain, calloused feet, painful bunions, and ingrown toenails. A range of supportive insoles are also supplied to help support and realign the foot and in turn reduce pain and minimise further injury.

Treatment for a range of sports-related injuries including tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and heel spurs is also provided by combining exercises plans together with corrective orthotic supportive insoles. Treatments are provided for both adults and children.

Where to find us

The Foot Clinic has locations in Roscommon (Molloys Pharmacy, Roscommon Town), Boyle Clinic (Loftus Surgery, Boyle), and Athlone (Radiant, Roscommon Road, Athlone). To book an appointment, phone 087 298 2214.

etables, additional tasting days, new eco-friendly rewards, as well as new teaching and learning materials which include videos, recipes and a range of bilingual activities.

Korea comes to Roscommon!

Local entrepreneur Rhiannon Cole brought K-pop fans from all over Ireland to a popular event in Athlone recently, blazing a trail with her unusual business, Reepop.ie

K-pop is the South Korean pop music business, which boasts fans of every age and gender from all over the world, and after only a year in business, Rhiannon has now put K-pop firmly on the Irish map.

“My business is mostly online, but I decided to host an in-person event in the Radisson Blu in Athlone as a meet-up for K-pop fans, and to introduce my business to a wider audience. Reepop Expo 24 was the result, and I’m delighted it gave so many Irish K-pop fans a rare opportunity to get together,” said Rhiannon.

Hundreds of fans turned up for the day to buy K-pop merchandise, watch videos, dance, make friends, play games and drink bubble tea.

“I had visitors from all over the island of Ireland, from as far afield

as Cork, Tipperary, Dublin and Belfast,” said Rhiannon, who is based in Fairymount, County Roscommon.

A long-time K-pop fan, Rhiannon has been delighted to make a suc-

cessful business from her interest, although her initial career choices were quite different: “After school, I did an Anthropology degree at Maynooth University and then did my Masters in Criminology and Criminal Justice in Wales. After that, I went into data management and analytics,” explained Rhiannon.

Then, a rare opportunity to start importing difficult-to-find K-pop goods directly from South Korea presented itself, and she hasn’t looked back.

“As a fan myself, I have tapped into a niche market and found a wonderful network of K-pop fans who appreciate how I can source genuine, branded merchandise direct from South Korea,” said Rhiannon. “So many people love Korean culture and I’m thrilled to be able to bring that to the west of Ireland”.

Such was the success of Reepop Expo 24, Rhiannon hopes to make it an annual event. Meanwhile she continues to grow her online enterprise.

Pictured is local entrepreneur Rhiannon Cole, whose new business, Reepop.ie, and recent Reepop Expo 24 event, have experienced signi cant success.

Pictured are Bill Carty, Killavil NS; Laura Murray, Rock eld NS; Aisling Tighe, Cloghogue NS; David Murphy, Kingsland NS; Paschal Gallagher, Curry NS; Fiona Usher, Ardkeerin NS; and Maria McHale, Food Dudes Project Manager during the recent Food Dudes Presentation Day at the Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Maxwells

Pictured is Maria McHale, Food Dudes Project Manager (centre) presenting Food Dudes Awards to Niamh Huane (left) and Tara Jordan (right) from Ballinlough NS during the recent Food Dudes Presentation Day at the Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Maxwells

Pictured is Maria McHale, Food Dudes Project Manager presenting Food Dudes Awards to John Ginty of Lisacul NS during the recent Food Dudes Presentation Day at the Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Maxwells

Pictured is Maria McHale, Food Dudes Project Manager presenting Food Dudes Awards to Therese Concannon of Cloontuskert NS during the recent Food Dudes Presentation Day at the Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Maxwells

Rural politicians express anger as Nature Restoration Law ratified

‘Entire economic and social ecosystem of Rural Ireland is in jeopardy’ says Fitzmaurice

In a move that has alarmed many within the farming community in Ireland, the Nature Restoration Law was ratified by the Council of Ministers in Brussels on Monday morning last, June 17th. The slim margin by which it was passed is now the subject of further legal challenges originating out of Austria, where the Environment Minister disobeyed a diktat from their Prime Minister on the issue and voted in favour of the regulation.

Backed by the outgoing Green Party Leader, Eamon Ryan TD, who announcement his retirement on Tuesday, this legislation is expected to have profound impacts, especially on farmers working with peaty soil. Michael Fitzmaurice TD has been a vocal critic, expressing deep concerns about the law’s implications for rural Ireland.

Fitzmaurice highlighted the impending challenges, stating: “The State will (probably) be able to manage the transition until 2030. However, the real problem will emerge post-2030, especially for smaller farmers farming on peaty soil across this country. The entire economic and social ecosystem of Rural Ireland is in jeopardy”.

Fitzmaurice criticized the persistent campaign led by the Green Party, supported by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, to push through this legislation: “We’ve seen what happens once European elections are over – other countries capitulate, and this law gets through without resistance. The result is that Irish farmers will bear the brunt of these political decisions”.

Drawing on past experiences, Fitzmaurice referenced the consequences of the Habitats Directive, noting the hardships faced by the people of Lough Funshinagh: “Unfortunately, the people of Lough Funshinagh have found out the hard way that a turlough takes priority over their homes and livelihoods – this is bad law”.

Fitzmaurice warned about the long-term regional impacts: “The West, the Midlands, the North-West, and the South-West will experience severe consequences down the road. The European Elections aren’t over a wet week and it’s ‘plough on’ from Europe.

“Yes, the procedure is what it is, but if timing means anything, it is clear to be seen that there has been an orchestrated effort by the EU Council of Ministers to dampen these proposals and take them off the field as an election issue”.

The newly-elected Independent Ireland MEP, Ciaran Mullooly also expressed his discontent and drew the ire of proponents of the laws online with Dublin-based Green Party TD, Neasa Hourigan, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to say of Mullooly: “Either you are knowingly misleading people here or you genuinely don’t understand

the democratic process a piece of legislation like this goes through. Not sure which one of those options is worse”.

On Monday morning, MEP Mullooly labelled the timing of the Council of Ministers’ decision as “cynical” in a video which he posted on the platform.

Mullooly criticised the proponents of the Nature Restoration Laws for, as he sees it, misinterpreting his comments: “It is disingenuous for proponents of the Nature Restoration Laws to say that they genuinely misinterpreted my comments. It is obvious that the Council of Ministers held up the ratification of the Nature Restoration Laws, in order to avoid any electoral blowback”.

Mullooly’s defence against the “Green spin” is that it “does nothing to help the lives of constituents” and “only acts to further erode trust” in the European democratic processes and institutions.

Deputy Fitzmaurice further explained the challenges farmers will face under this new regulation: “What people seem to lose sight of in this debate is the fact that in order to qualify for a

basic farm payment under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) going forward, farmers on peaty soil will have to commit to not draining, shoring, or ploughing their lands. The word ‘voluntary’ is a great buzzword, but only for those who can survive without the CAP payment”.

Deputy Fitzmaurice added: “Beyond 2030, the Nature Restoration Laws are going to place huge pressure on the social and economic ecosystems of Rural Ireland. While on its face, subsidising farmers not to farm their land might appear to make sense in the context of rewilding lands, the reality is that the knock-on effects for towns and villages across rural Ireland will be detrimental”.

Both Fitzmaurice and Mullooly are calling for the Oireachtas to ensure that the implementation of the Nature Restoration Law has the minimum negative impact on farmers and rural communities. They stress that the social fabric of rural Ireland is at risk, urging stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive.

Trying to make progress – while preserving what we value

COMMENT

< EMMETT CORCORAN

By its very definition, capitalism evolves through cycles of ‘creative destruction,’ where old ways of life and industries give way to new, more efficient and sustainable ones.

The challenge for politicians is to balance the immediate needs and livelihoods of people affected by these changes with the necessity of fostering a more sustainable future. Proponents and opponents of the Nature Restoration Laws often miss that a ‘winnertake-all’ mentality only deepens political divides. Their disagreements stem not from differing end goals but from their beliefs about how to achieve these shared objectives.

In short, conservatives aim to preserve traditional ways of life, while progressives seek to adapt to changing times. Human nature complicates this balancing act. While supporters of laws like the EU Nature Restoration Law present valid reasons for change, the concerns of conservatives about the potential erosion of established lifestyles are equally legitimate.

The real debate isn’t about the validity of the capitalist model versus a centrally planned economy, as some reductionist politicians would like to lead the public to believe; and why wouldn’t they, it’s much easier to spin a trope than become acquainted with economic theory.

Instead, the debate should centre on understanding which phase of capitalism’s evolutionary cycle we currently occupy and the most humane way to progress while also preserving that which needs to be preserved. Politicians often misinterpret this as a clash of competing economic and social theories, when it is, in fact, an integral part of capitalism’s natural evolution.

€6m in Just Transition funding welcomed

Local politicians have welcomed the announcement of over €6 million in funding for local projects under Fáilte Ireland’s EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, which saw €32 million in investment grants awarded nationally.

This funding includes almost €1.2 million for Lough Key Forest Park, €370,000 for Clondra Village enhancements, €150,000 for Lanesboro Amphitheatre, €84,000 for the Clondra to

Tarmonbarry Cycleway Scheme, over €487,000 for the Royal Canal Greenway, over €260,000 for Corlea Iron Age Roadway and Visitor Centre, €561,000 for Athlone Town Centre, and over €3.2 million for Athlone Castle’s visitor enhancements.

In welcoming the funding, local Fianna Fáil senator Eugene Murphy again highlighted the major local fallout from the demise of Bord na Mona and ESB. “More funding will be forthcoming,

and is particularly needed in North East Roscommon”, he commented.

“I welcome funding for Lough Key Forest Park, Lanesboro/Ballyleague, Tarmonbarry/Rooskey and Tarmonbarry/Clondra. I also welcome the funding for Shannonbridge; this area right back to the Ballinasloe region has suffered because of power station uncertainty in the region.

“This allocation of money is mainly focused on tourism development and

will create jobs and will bring extra visitors to the area.

“I am glad to have been able to lobby for this type of development; Government investment is very welcome”, he concluded.

Fine Gael senator Aisling Dolan also welcomed the funding, stating, “I am delighted to see €1,185,712 in funding for the award-winning Lough Key Forest and Activity Park. Lough Key is a national treasure.

“This Just Transition funding is for design and planning on how to maximise capacity as well as develop more activities at the park. It is a huge boost for Boyle and North Roscommon as well as surrounding counties.

“I’m also happy to see investment to Bord na Móna to further enhance a trail between Tarmonbarry to Rooskey (roughly 12 kilometres) linking towns on the River Shannon”, Senator Dolan continued.

Voting (and) counts: The importance of civic engagement in local politics

Let’s talk about

Local elections –voting and counts

(A

At the recent election count in Roscommon town’s Hyde Centre, as staff pored over mismatched piles of pink, blue, and yellow ballots from the three LEAs, and as the first day melted away until the early hours without any official first count results in sight, it was hard to look down from the press area at the seemingly endless sea of papers being shuffled about in busy hands, and reconcile this with the remarkably low preliminary turnout figures that had been bleeding into the news cycle since the day before.

But as much as someone’s first time experiencing the mayhem and monotony of an election count might lead them to believe the amount of voting sheets was objectively huge, the fact remains that the actual number of voters who visited the polling station this year was not just low, but indeed a record low.

The national turnout level for local elections was 49.4%, making this year the first time in the State’s history that more than half of registered voters failed to show up. And while in context this is not a sharp departure from the 2019 elections (which saw a 50.2% turnout), it is still significant. It is still a notable indicator of civic engagement – or perhaps more aptly, a lack of it. And it’s odd, because generally and anecdotally, it feels as though if anything, people have become more politically cognisant. With our increased global connectivity, everyone has (or at least feels they should have) an opinion on everything. Maybe it’s the usually-touted reasons for poor turnout at play – disillusionment with the political system, perceived lack of choices, ineffective outreach and mobilisation efforts from campaigners, etc. Or maybe it has more to do with the fact that these were local elections,

not a General Election (which tends to get a bigger turnout).

Because even at the recent count in the Hyde, talking to more seasoned attendees confirmed that for whatever reason, a stark contrast has indeed occurred in terms of the culture around local politics. One older couple who said they’d been attending counts for decades remarked it was the quietest one they’d ever seen. The stories I was told of “dubh ‘to the corners’ le daoine” count centres, of being poked at incessantly to hand over your ticket if you stepped out for just a moment to smoke, and even of scraps breaking out

outside over tickets and disagreements… they felt foreign, juxtaposed against the occasionally sparse hall of 2024.

And admittedly, it might be easier to understand why counts specifically are garnering less attendance; as I’m sure those of you who followed along with the Roscommon People’s live updates from the Hyde will attest, the speed and clarity at which the media can communicate election information to the public online nowadays offers a far more convenient, albeit less immersive, alternative for the interested voter.

But as much as they’re reflective of the same

issue (civic disengagement), if the average voter doesn’t have to be at the count to learn about the latest results anymore, that’s not to say they may as well not visit the polling booth either.

For whatever reason (and there’s probably many), people aren’t voting as much. Specifically, on the local level. If our political interests have skewed more national/global, that’s understandable – some issues simply have more meat on their bones than the issues that tend to frequent a county council’s agenda. But that doesn’t change how much the latter can directly affect our daily lives.

Because another thing I can say after attending the recent count at the Hyde, is that even if the average voter today is less cornered with engaging in local politics than the average voter twenty years ago, those who do still maintain an interest, understand the aforementioned point; understand the catered changes local politics can provide a community and the speed at which the issues of the ‘little man’ can be heard and addressed, comparative to the national scale.

But this is only if the issues of the ‘little man’ are known. And the people do know what they need – interviewing local candidates about their canvassing experiences revealed that when asked, the electorate had a keen finger on the pulse of their community’s needs. It’s that bridge that’s needed – that re-engagement with local politics and being informed about candidates on voters’ part, and consistent direct engagement with voters on politicians’ parts – in order to demonstrate just how much grassroots politics can do. How impactful local politics can, and should, be.

You get a weird sort of prideful feeling watching a count, watching ‘democracy in action’ as it were. Seeing the meticulous teamwork of clerks, tally people, photographers, journalists and public, all operating together in (often frantic) harmony – sharing the latest updates they received, speculating, theorising, etc. You get a glimpse of the community in action as you wait to see who will represent it.

It is a very heartening thing – and it would be great to see how much more heartening it’d be with the engagement of the other half of the electorate too.

Alannah Ita Healy

student’s perspective)

Excitement building in Strokestown ahead of Connacht Fleadh

There is huge excitement in Strokestown this week as Strokestown CCÉ prepares to host the Fleadh Cheoil Connachta 2024. The first of the Provincial Fleadhs kicks off on the 29th of June and the event will continue through until July 7th

The Fleadh Cheoil Connachta and Community Fleadh was launched in Strokestown on Sunday last by Attracta Brady, the new Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Eireann President. The launch took place in the Percy French Hotel. Representatives from Roscommon County Coun-

cil – including newly-elected councillors – joined local organisations, sponsors, members of the public, and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Eireann representatives from all over Connacht at the launch.

Catherine Hanly, vice-chairperson of the Connacht Fleadh Committee, expressed heartfelt gratitude towards all the sponsors, the local community who have helped immensely with the community fleadh, and local publicans and other businesses who have come on board to provide venues and support for musicians. Their support and generos-

ity has been of great assistance in preparing for the festivities.

Ms Hanly emphasised that without their financial contributions, organising such an event would be impossible. She also extended a special thanks to Roscommon County Council for their generous donation, which played a crucial role in making the event a reality.

Michael Cusack, Chairperson of the Connacht Board, added, “I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Strokestown for organising such a

wonderful programme of events for the Connacht Fleadh 2024. The dedication and effort put into this festival is truly commendable”. Attracta Brady, recently elected as President of Comaltas Ceoilóirí Eireann, launched the Connacht Fleadh Strokestown 2024 by saying, “It is evident that a tremendous amount of work has gone into planning and executing this celebration of our music, dance, and traditions. Events like these are more than just celebrations; they are vital in keeping our traditions alive and thriving”.

Attracta also spoke of the many times she has visited this locality as an adjudicator over the years and said she looks forward to the many wonderful experiences the Connacht Fleadh 2024 has in store.

The first of the Provincial Fleadhs kicks off on the 29th of June and will run through until July 7th. This event serves as the next level for qualifying for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford town, which takes place from the 4th to the 9th of August 2024. Musicians, singers, dancers, and storytellers from across the five counties will compete over the weekend for a chance to represent Connacht in August.

An exciting clár (programme) of events has been organised, starting with the local parkrun, which takes place on the 29th of June on the grounds of Strokestown Park House. The various sports events throughout the week include a ladies 7-a-side Gaelic football tournament, golfing tournament, bowling competition and Kiltrustan sports day. Additionally, the weeklong event will feature collaboration with the Brothers of Charity and their radio station ‘Our Voice FM’, Cupán Cainte, a wellness evening, and music and singing sessions throughout the week.

The highly anticipated weekend will feature even more events, including a double bill concert with Gatehouse and Téada with Niamh Farrell, ceilí with The Swallows Tail Ceilí Band, and competitions on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

For full details, visit connachtfleadh.ie and follow the event on Instagram (@connachtfleadh, @strokestowncce) and Facebook (Connacht Fleadh 2024, Strokestown CCÉ).

Pictured at the launch of the Connacht Fleadh last Sunday evening in the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown were (back row, l-r) Catherine Hanley, Helen Duggan, Edel Doherty , Bríd Ní Grenúil, Margaret Hanley, Catherine Conway, Laura Conway, Martina Murray, Michael Cusack, Mark Dunleavey and Fionnuala Maxwell and (front row, l-r) Cllr Sean Moylan, Cllr Leah Cull, Attracta Brady, Uachtarain Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann (CCÉ); Cllr Micheál Freyne, and Cllr Liam Callaghan. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Michael Cusack, Chairperson, Connacht Council CCÉ pictured with Attracta Brady, Uachtarain Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ) at the launch of the Connacht Fleadh at the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Attracta Brady, Uachtarain Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (right) pictured with her daughter Roisín O’Connor at the launch of the Connacht Fleadh at the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Local musicians performed some traditional music to round o the launch of the Connacht Fleadh at the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Boyle ready for return of Night and Day Festival and

One of the major acts to perform at this year’s festival is Beatles tribute band ‘The Mersey Beatles’.

Bell X1, Damien Dempsey, Gemma Hayes, Ash, The Undertones, Mick Flannery, Morgana and Cork group, The Frank and Walters are among the household names that will be taking to the stage at this year’s Night and Day Festival.

The festival returns to Boyle from Friday, June 28th to Sunday, June 30th inclusive. The festival, now in its third year, will once again take place in the majestic surrounds of Lough Key Forest Park.

One of the major acts to perform at this year’s festival is Beatles tribute band ‘The Mersey Beatles’. The group are universally recognised as the definitive Beatles tribute experience.

The group take to the main stage on the Friday. Tickets for the opening day are just €50 with the Mersey Beatles playing a full two-hour show accompanied by a spectacular visual display.

Visitors attending the Lough Key Forest Park can also avail of the many on-site amenities there, including zip-lining courses, tree-top walks and boat tours.

The festival is a strictly over 20s event, but those under 14 can enter for free when accompanied by an adult.

There is a full family-friendly itinerary to keep the children entertained, including immersive circus performances, musical workshops and cultural exhibitions.

As well as featuring top quality Irish and international acts, this year’s festival will also showcase new and emerging performers as well as local groups.

Tickets are currently on sale by visiting www. nightandday.ie

*Night and Day Music Festival is proudly supported by Roscommon County Council, in association with Coillte, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Newstalk Radio, Extra.ie, Lough Key Distillery, Cancer Fund for Children, The White Hag Brewing Company and Well.Can’d Water.

Author Helen McSharry reads from her book ‘The Return of the Tuatha Dé Danann’ to a group of children during the recent Cruinniu na nÓg activities at King House in Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

Marketa Woods and her daughter, Cásidhe, from Strokestown, Co Roscommon, dust off some treasures in the Museum of Believing during the recent Cruinniu na nÓg activities at King House in Boyle. Pic: Brian Farrell

Young people taking part in the Circus Tricks Workshop with Chloe Commins during the recent Cruinniu na nÓg activities at the Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Brian Farrell

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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Book now to attend 16th annual Percy French Festival

The 16th annual Percy French Festival will be held next month on the grounds of the beautiful Castlecoote House in County Roscommon, with the event spanning over three days from July 17th to July 19th inclusive.

This year’s festival follows the theme ‘Our Great Disconnect’, and will explore a variety of topics from different historical, social, political, and artistic perspectives.

A series of talks over the three days will analyse this theme by taking a look at ‘disconnection’ and what it means within the context of the past, the present, and the future.

Musical performances and recitals will, as ever, form a significant part of this year’s festival, with renowned musician Don Baker set to perform, as well as

Roscommon natives Michael Banahan and singer-songwriter Ciara Lawless.

The keynote speaker for this year’s festival is former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, who will be attending the event on Thursday, July 18th. Ahern, who served as Taoiseach from 1997 to 2008, and whose major role in the Northern Ireland peace process has been widely hailed, will discuss the prospects for a United Ireland in his address to the annual festival in Castlecoote. His perspective on this issue – and how a ‘new Ireland’ might look – will be eagerly awaited, and promises to be a highlight of this year’s conference. The festival will feature a number of similarly distinguished speakers, who are all well established in their respec-

tive fields, including Dr Brian Griffin, Dr Tony McCarthy, Dr Pauric Travers, Dr Kevin Kiely, Dr Pádraig Lenihan, Dr Michael Hardiman, Dr Eve Wat-

son, James Bradshaw, Louise Lennon, Pearse O’Shiel, Nell Smyth, Caroline Kelly, Audrey Flynn, and Dr Margaret Daly Denton (who will be delivering

the Sean Freyne Memorial Lecture).

The festival’s early booking special offer is ongoing, and organisers have stressed that tick-

ets sell out quickly – so be sure to get your tickets now to secure your place at this informative event!

Tickets are currently available at a cost of €50 for Wednesday (July 17th) or Friday (July 19th), and €65 for Thursday (July 18th). This covers the cost of admission to the three/four lectures and afternoon recital that day, as well as tea/coffee/homemade cakes during the morning break.

The ticket office can be contacted on 090 666 3794 or via email at info@percyfrench. ie. Tickets can also be booked online at percyfrench.ie, where further details and the full schedule are also available. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to attend this year’s engaging festival!

Talk on ‘alternative’ Steiner education will appeal to students and families

 ALANNAH HEALY

Students and their families throughout County Roscommon and adjoining counties are encouraged to attend this year’s Percy French Festival in Castlecoote where an address on the Steiner education method will be one of the highlights of day three (Friday, July 19th).

The Steiner education method offers an alternative to the more traditional and conventional educational system, by focusing on the holistic development of the child in tandem with providing their basic academic education.The core elements of the Steiner method include creative learning (via play, stories, art, and handson activities), integrated subjects (for example, a history lesson might include literature, art, and music from the period being studied), and opting for feedback over

grades/standardised tests. The method also involves limiting technology use, and there is an emphasis on sustainability and connection to nature.

Pearse O’Shiel will speak about the Steiner education method in his talk, ‘Educating for a Human Future’, which takes place on the last day of the Percy French Festival – Friday, July 19th. The subject will also get a focus later that day in ‘Fully Human, Fully Present: a joyful path into learning and the world (through the Steiner Waldorf Approach)’, which will be delivered by Nell Smyth, Caroline Kelly, and Audrey Flynn.

O’Shiel is chairperson of Lifeways Ireland CLG, the charity that achieved State recognition for Steiner schools in Clare and Galway.

He teaches philosophy of education and has worked for over 35 years to support the establishment of alternative

Castlerea photographer shortlisted in astrophotography competition

David Patton from Castlerea, Co Roscommon has been selected for the next stage of the prestigious ‘Reach for the Stars’ astrophotography competition, run by the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS). The competition aims to find the best astro-photographs taken in Ireland over the past year. Mr Patton has been shortlisted in the ‘Back on Earth – Landmark’ category for his image, ‘Bridge Over Untroubled Waters’. While a high profile judging panel will select the overall winning entries in the coming weeks, an online vote is also open so members of the public can also have their say. All shortlisted images can now be viewed on the ‘Reach for the Stars’ website, www. reachforthestars.ie, and members of the public can cast their vote for their favourite image.

Entrants were invited to submit entries across five distinct categories in the competition: Night Sky in Your Hand, Out of this World, Out of this World, Back on Earth, and Back on Earth.

The winning images selected by the judging panel and the public vote will be announced in July, and an outdoor exhibition will be staged by DIAS to showcase the best images.

Votes for the Public Choice Award are restricted to one vote per person, and voting will close at midday on Friday, 5th of July 2024.

DIAS’s ‘Reach for the Stars’ competition is being run in partnership with The Irish Times, and is sponsored by Alice Public Relations and the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland. The Irish Astronomical Society are initiative supporters.

schools. He maintains a research interest in exploring different ways of understanding and learning about the world, beyond a predominantly scientific and technological mode of thought.

In O’Shiel’s own words, the benefits of a Steiner education are: “You get a more well-rounded education that fosters curiosity, encouraging a lifelong enthusiasm for learning, compassion, collaboration, imagination, innovation. And it helps develop resilience”.

If you are interested in learning more about the Steiner approach to education, or would like to hear about any of the other interesting topics being discussed as part of this year’s Percy French Festival, visit percyfrench. ie, where you can find full details about the upcoming event and buy tickets. Discounted prices are available for students.

Pictured is Castlecoote House, where the annual Percy French Festival will be taking place again this year, from July 17th to 19th inclusive.

Pictured is Pearse O’Shiel, who will speak about the Steiner education method in his talk, taking place on Friday, July 19th, as part of this year’s Percy French Festival.

Astro-photographer David Patton from Castlerea, Co Roscommon has been shortlisted in the ‘Back on Earth –Landmark’ category of the prestigious ‘Reach for the Stars’ astrophotography competition for this image, ‘Bridge Over Untroubled Waters’.

IFA reaction to EPA Report

IFA President Francie Gorman said that farmers are very focused on improving water quality. Reacting to the EPA Report launched recently, he said there is a relentless focus among farmers to make changes to improve and achieve better water quality. “Teagasc launched a new campaign ‘Better Farming for Water’ and all farmers must play their part in this,” he said.

“Our water quality is in a relatively good position compared to other EU countries. However, there is a determined and robust approach across the whole sector to minimise the impact of food produc-

tion on our waterways”.

The IFA President said there is an unprecedented level of investment and adoption of new measures on farms: “For example, inorganic fertiliser usage on farms is down approximately 30% in two years,” he said.

However, he said that some initiatives individual farmers want to undertake on farms around slurry/ nutrient storage were being frustrated by delays in DAFM grant approvals and planning delays.

“We must remove these roadblocks and ensure that farmers can move quickly to make capital invest-

ments,” he commented.

“It’s about the right measures in the right places at the right time and the right rate, to ensure that nutrients are taken up by grass and crops. We are determined to reduce nutrient loss to deliver better water quality.

“All the dairy co-ops are working closely with their farmer suppliers in making this central to everything. In fact, co-ops make part of the payment to farmers conditional on sustainability elements, including safeguarding our water quality”.

Francie Gorman said he had no doubt that the work being done will deliver div-

idends: “We cannot have any let-up in our efforts. No more than our work to

reduce emissions, this has to be sustained and resultsdriven,” he concluded.

There were 400 lots presented for sale on June 13th, with trade and prices holding rm – especially for quality lots. The bullock ring witnessed the top stores make up to €3.65 a kilo, with heavier lots making up to €1890. The heifer ring recorded €3.75 a kilo for the top quality lots, while dry cows peaked at €2200. The weanling rings recorded €3.86 a kilo for the top bulls, while the heifer weanlings peaked at €3.58 a kilo. Breeding stock made up to €2200, while the calf ring reported a good clearance with farmer demand still strong.

Bullocks, sample prices: AA 475kgs €1680, Lm 485kgs €1650, Ch 400kgs €1460, Ch 535kgs €1730, Lm 510kgs €1630, AA 590kgs €1890, AA 555kgs €1560, AA 605kgs €1790, AA 640kgs €1700, and Fr 618kgs €1540.

Please

Tuesday Weanling Sales will recommence in August – Until then weanlings will be sold on Friday’s in conjunction with usual sales for Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at

TAMS payments needed promptly – IFA

Reacting to the commencement of TAMS 3 payments announced by DAFM, IFA National Rural Development Chairperson John Curran has said it is essential that the maximum number of farmers are paid –and paid promptly. He said that many of their investments were made, and costs incurred, many months ago – particularly for mobile assets.

“More broadly, TAMS reference costs are very much out of kilter with prevailing costs of materials,” John Curran said.

“Investment ceilings and costs need to be reviewed upwards to better reflect the new cost realities. This is particularly relevant given Revenue’s changed perspective on items eligible for VAT 58 reclaims.

“There also needs to be greater minimisation of bureaucracy/verification to speed up the whole process and help ensure all funding is fully utilised. Any unused funding within TAMS must be retained and re-circulated for future tranches to support on-farm investment,” he concluded.

Heifers, sample prices: Lm 420kgs €1340, Lm 420kgs €1330, Ch 390kgs €1290, Ch 395kgs €1270, Lm 460kgs €1550, Lm 475kgs €1550, Sim 455kgs €1450, Lm 525kgs €1970, Lm 555kgs €1800, and AA 590kgs €1770.

Dry cows, sample prices: Ch 820kgs €2200, Ch 720kgs €2070, Ch 765kgs €2050, Her 820kgs €2020, Lm 615kgs €1820, Her 435kgs €1000, Fr 415kgs €710, and Lm 495kgs €1370. Cows with calves at foot made from €1360 to €2200, and springers made up to €2020. For calves/runners, young calves made from €20 to €400. Runners made from €170 to €850.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 285kgs €1050, Lm 295kgs €1050, AA 280kgs €800, Lm 380kgs €1300, AA 320kgs €1170, Sim 360kgs €1390, Lm 375kgs €1400, and Sim 440kgs €1410. Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 265kgs €950, Lm 260kgs €890, Lm 310kgs €940, Lm 305kgs €900, BBX 445kgs €1330, and Lm 235kgs €740.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday, the 20th of June, with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

for spring lambs made up to €195 while hoggets topped out at €160. The tops for stag ewes fetched €210. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-live.com. Sample prices for dry cows: 1X SIX - 875KG - €2,340,

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Roscommon beef farmers to feature in Teagasc National Beef Open Day

Teagasc are delighted to invite all beef farmers and stakeholders in Roscommon, and the Irish beef industry, to attend the national beef open day, ‘BEEF2024’, which takes place on Tuesday, June 26th, in Teagasc, Grange, Co Meath (C15PW93) from 9 am to 4 pm.

The theme is ‘Securing your future’, and this year’s event will see Roscommon’s Shane Keaveney feature in the Future Beef forum.

The focus of BEEF2024 will be on the application of technologies that will help beef farmers increase the profitability and environmental sustainability of their family farm businesses. It is a free event and all are welcome to attend.

On the day there will be two technical main stands.

The first stand will focus on ‘Securing your future in beef farming’, in which the key challenges and opportunities will be discussed along with production systems to balance income and lifestyle.

The second stand is titled ‘Management toolbox for beef farms’, in which optimal suckler and dairybeef systems will be discussed, along with driving genetic gain for beef cattle.

There will be four technical villages that attendees can visit. The first village, ‘Grassland and forage’, will feature live displays in relation to low emissions slurry application and grazing management. There will be demonstrations in relation to the use of protected urea fertilisers, calibration of spreaders and farm infrastructure.

Then, depending on your enterprise, you can choose to visit either the ‘Suckler Beef’ or ‘Dairy calf-to-beef’ village. There will be cow simulators used to demonstrate the principles of safe calving and handling of livestock. Cattle from the various suckler and dairybeef studies at Grange will be on display. There will also be displays on calf rearing, antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance and assessing cattle for finishing.

This is followed by the ‘Advisory, Education and Opportunities’ village, which features Teagasc advisory services, education options within the

farm sector, organic beef farming, renewable energy options and forestry. Technologies and live demonstrations in relation to grazing management, animal nutrition, beef genetics, reproductive management, animal health and welfare, and farm planning will form the main focus of the day. Finally, the open day will conclude in the Forum Centre where there will be an opportunity to engage with industry stakeholders.

PANEL

DISCUSSIONS

Panel discussions covering key topics across a range of beef cattle production systems will also be held. Future Beef programme Farmer Shane Keaveney and Dairy Beef 500 programme farmer Martin Connolly will feature at this year’s national open day.

Martin Connolly has

been rearing dairy-bred calves, bringing them to beef, for many years. The high level of fragmentation, combined with the general heavy nature of land in the area, brings challenges in terms of grassland management and especially grazing. Martin purchases around 160 calves every year and sources most of the calves

locally. Martin will outline the latest technologies he is using on his farm to increase profitability and sustainability of his dairy beef system. The Dairy Beef forum will take place at 12.30 pm.

Shane farms with his wife Grainne and three children in Granlahan, Ballinlough, Co Roscommon. They operate a 38 spring calving

suckler system. The male calves are finished as under 16 months bull beef. The heifers are sold as forward stores. The cow type is mainly LM/SA crosses. A terminal CH stock bull is used and Shane has started to use some AI as a source for replacements. In recent years Shane has placed huge focus on maximising weight gain from grass

through improving grass growth by increasing soil fertility and efficient use of fertiliser on the farm. To reduce the fertiliser bill and to improve silage quality, red clover was sown in 2023.

On the day, Shane, alongside Galway Future Beef farmer Aonghusa Fahy, will outline the latest technologies they are using on their farm to increase profitability and sustainability of their suckler beef systems. The Future Beef forum will take place at 1.30 pm.

The concluding forum of the day ‘Securing your future in beef farming’ will take place at 2.30 pm. In this forum, the main opportunities and challenges facing the sector and beef farm families will be discussed, in particular, succession and inheritance. Keynote speakers from the beef sector will outline the strengths of the sector and the potential to enhance profitability, sustainability and lifestyle.

Teagasc acknowledges with gratitude the support of FBD Trust, who will be available on the day to meet attendees.

For further information, visit teagasc.ie/beef2024.

61 acres for sale in Dysart with Remax Team Earley

This week, Cathal Meares of Remax Team Earley is delighted to present to the market approximately 61 acres of land, located at Ballyglass, Dysart, Co Roscommon (comprised in Folio RN8287).

The sale of these said lands would offer all farmers in the area a great opportunity to acquire a substantial holding in this regarded farming district of Dysart, Co Roscommon.

The farm comprises of approximately 23 acres of good quality land, perfect for cultivation and grazing. This section is well equipped with essential farming infrastructure, including a cattle crush and holding pen, ensuring efficient livestock management. Additionally, the property boasts a private internal farm roadway, providing direct access from the main entrance off the R357 road.

The remaining 38 acres of the farm is under rocky terrain and overgrown vegetation, and designated as a Special Area of Conservation.

Legal: Tina Dolan Solicitor, Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP, Athlone (090 647 8433). The price guide is €200,000.

For further details, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact the auctioneer Cathal directly on 086 1409158.

Paddy Joe’s barber shop for sale

Paddy Joe Burke, the famous Roscommon town barber, recently put his landmark premises at Church Street up for sale – and has indicated that he is preparing for retirement after 52 years in business.

The popular Roscommon GAA ‘superfan’ opened his barber shop in 1972. The premises is a renowned meeting point where great conversation and camaraderie are guaranteed. It is also notable for its GAA/sporting memorabilia.

Now an era is nearing an end with Paddy Joe confirming that he will hang up his scissors once the building is sold.

The premises is on the market for an asking price of €130,000 with auctioneers Re-Max Team Earley in Roscommon town.

Steeped in history, this versatile property has operated as a beloved barber shop since 1935, with the renowned Paddy Joe at the helm for the past 52 years.

As a cherished landmark in the community, this property has served as a barber shop for nearly nine decades. The layout includes 2/3 bedrooms, providing ample room to continue the barbering tradition or to convert back into a residential dwelling, subject to planning permission.

Whether you’re looking to carry on the legacy of Paddy Joe Burke or seeking a unique residential space, this property offers endless possibilities. It retains many original features, providing a nostalgic charm that new owners can either preserve or modernise to their taste.

This mid-terrace property in Roscommon town is a rare find, blending historical charm with modern potential. (See teamearley.ie for more).

Office/retail therapy space to let with Remax Team Earley

Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley has rooms to let in Roscommon town centre (first floor), which would be suitable for office or private therapy/beauty rooms. The rooms are available immediately.

If interested, contact Keith of Remax Team Earley on 086 0848590, or contact the office (Stonecourt Centre, The Square, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie.

Opening of new offices of Bradley Homes Estate Agents and Auctioneers draws crowds to Creggs

The quaint village of Creggs, Co Galway, recently played host to a momentous occasion as the grand opening of the new offices of Bradley Homes Estate Agents drew a large crowd and showcased incredible community spirit.

“This event marks a significant milestone for our business, as we expand our presence and deepen our roots in this vibrant area”, said Deirdre Bradley of Bradley Homes.

The celebration was graced by the presence of Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, who cut the ceremonial ribbon and officially opened the

premises for business. His involvement highlighted the importance of this new venture, not just for the business, but for the entire community. Deputy Fitzmaurice, a dedicated public servant, expressed his enthusiasm for the potential growth and positive impact that the new venture will bring to the region. The warm weather was a delightful bonus, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Attendees, both residents and visitors from surrounding areas, mingled with the staff and shared in the joyous occasion. The scene was one of unity and celebration, as people enjoyed

drinks and refreshments, adding to the overall enjoyment of the day.

The overwhelming support from the community was evident, as people from all around came to witness and partake in the festivities. The large turnout is a testament to the strong bonds and the sense of camaraderie that defines the village of Creggs and its neighbouring areas.

“As we look forward to serving the community from our new offices, we are filled with gratitude for the warm welcome and the enthusiastic support we have received”, said Deirdre. “This event not only

marks the opening of a new chapter for our organisation but also reinforces our commitment to contributing positively to the community.

“We are excited about the future and eager to work together with the wonderful people of Creggs and its surroundings area of Roscommon, Galway and beyond!

“The grand opening in Creggs will be remembered as a day of celebration, unity, and new beginnings. With the support of the community, we are confident that our new offices will become a hub of growth and development, benefiting everyone involved!”

Luxury living in Ballymoe

Embrace the epitome of luxury living in this stunning six-bedroomed, five-bathroom dormer bungalow, nestled on a generous site of approximately 0.57 acres in the charming town of Ballymoe, Co Galway.

This exceptional residence, boasting an impressive floor area of approximately 290 square metres (3,126 square feet), offers a turn-key condition that epitomises exquisite living both inside and out. With no expense spared on the fixtures and fittings, this home promises a lifestyle of unmatched comfort and elegance.

The property is in impeccable condition, ready for immediate occupancy. It includes a detached garage and an open fuel shed, providing additional storage and utility spaces. The manicured lawns and tarmacadamed driveway enhance the home’s kerb appeal, while the excellent BER

rating of B2 ensures energy efficiency and costeffective living.

On the ground floor, the reception hallway offers a welcoming entrance that exudes a sense of grandeur. The sitting room is elegant and spacious, perfect for relaxation and entertaining.

The state-of-the-art kitchen and dining room span the full length of the house, making it an ideal space for family gatherings and culinary enthusiasts. The utility room is functional with ample storage, and the guest bathroom is modern and stylish, catering to visitors. A bright and inviting sunroom offers a perfect spot to enjoy garden views.

The ground floor also features four generouslysized bedrooms, two of which have luxurious ensuite bathrooms, along with a well appointed family bathroom with high-quality fixtures.

The first floor includes a large double bedroom that is comfortable and private, with ample under-roof storage. The suite consists of a large bedroom, lounge, and spacious bathroom, offering a private retreat. The landing area is spacious and light-filled, suitable for a variety of uses. This bungalow’s design and layout are second to none, providing a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, and functionality. Every aspect of this superior property reflects meticulous attention to detail, setting it apart as a truly remarkable home.

Don’t miss your chance to own this exquisite bungalow in Ballymoe. Contact us today to arrange a viewing and experience the luxury and convenience this property offers. All offers in excess of €350,000 are considered. This property can be purchased with or without an adjacent residential site, offering additional flexibility for prospective buyers. Contact us now on 086 171 3417 or via sales@ bradleyhomes.ie to schedule your private viewing and step into the luxury of your new home in Ballymoe, Co Galway! For more, visit bradleyhomes.ie.

Dysart, Co Roscommon

Scenes from the recent official opening of Bradley Homes Estate Agents and Auctioneers’s new offices in Creggs, Co Galway.

Spacious and bright kitchen.

Six-bedroomed, five-bathroom dormer bungalow, nestled on a generous site of approximately 0.57 acres in the charming town of Ballymoe, Co Galway

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION / ON LINE AUCTION & THE LSL ONLINE PLATFORM

72 ACRES APPROX OF A PRIME RESIDENTIAL FARM ON WHICH STANDS A 4-BEDROOMED DETACHED TWO-STOREY RESIDENCE

COMPRISED IN FOLIOS RN24920, RN870, RN27570 & RN12188F (Being the Estate of the late Christopher Breslin)

AVAILABLE IN LOTS:

• LOT 1: 71 acres approx. with the benefit of 28.20 entitlements, farm yard & outbuildings

• LOT 2: 4 Bedroom Residence on 1 acre approx. with storage sheds

• LOT 3: Entire Property - 72 acres approx with the benefit of 28.20 entitlements:

o Includes a four-bedroom residence

o Storage sheds, 3 bay hay barn, 5 bay lean tos, yard, silage slab, crush and pen

o Services - Water & ESB

The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire a residential farm in this regarded farming district of Tulsk & Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

Note: Residence and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate Legals: Joan Harrington Solicitor, Strokestown - 071 963 4608 PRICE ON APPLICATION

BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON F45N883

NEW TO THE MARKET 2 B/R SEMI DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE 12 THORNFIELD DRIVE, LISNAMULT, ROSCOMMON F42 CA43

€300,000 AMV: €220,000 AMV: PRICE ON APPLICATION

40 Acres approx Strokestown area. Apply the office

Classifieds

< ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS:

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

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

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and flues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

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

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

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

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

Stephen Casey Construction

l General Building

l Extensions & Roofing

l Groundworks

l Renovations

l Chimney CCTV Inspections

l Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

PaulDSA/ADIMcStay (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA

Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE

Castlerea & Roscommon EDT

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you affected byAnger 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

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test

Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

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

< FOR SALE: PZ Haybob, Khum Disc Mower, 10 x 6 Tipping Trailer, Viking Spreader. Tel. 087 7733181.

FOR SALE

Weslo Treadmill, Exercise Bike, Air Glider, Stepsider, Back Swing, Hand Roller. €475. Tel. 086 2281535

< FOR SALE: Large pine mirror €120.00; silver circular mirror (John Lewis – London) €180.00; 2 matching dining room chairs, as new, €250.00 for both; multicolour large mat/carpet – good clean condition – €60.00; coffee table with 4 marble inserts (light coloured wood) €80.00; Barrell shaped Wine Cabinet, holds 11 bottles of wine €75; Barbeque Grill – Lava Rock – Gas (new, in box) €175.00; pairs of lined curtains with silver eyelets; table lamps and bicycles, as new. Tel 087-6304976 –no private numbers please.

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS

REGAN FENCING LTD

For all your fencing needs.

l GLAS Fencing l Grant Fencing l Post Rail Tel: 087 2172281

member. Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Mary Corrigan, am applying to Roscommon County Council for Retention permission for the following

1. To retain revised elevations of existing dwelling which di ers to that granted under PD/01/591

2. To retain as constructed domestic garage

3. To retain revised site entrance location which di ers to that granted under PD/01/591 at Knockalaghta, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45N883.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road

Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365

Mob: 085 1299470

E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie

Web: www.jlce.ie

Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Mary and Noel Kenny, intend to apply for retention permission of a single storey conservatory extension to the south of an existing single storey dwelling at Ballaghcullia, Ballinagare, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

a) Retention of the conservatory of 10.9m2 to the south of the property at the above address.

b) All associated site development works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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: Brandon OBrien Ltd. (Agent); Consulting Engineers, Church Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6625005

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Rebecca Wynne, intend to apply for permission for development at Rover Upper, Arigna, Co Roscommon. The development will consist of: alterations & extension to the side of the existing cottage, new site entrance, upgrade of wastewater treatment system & percolation area and all ancillary site works.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Patrick J. Hynes, Curryroe, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37F702; intend to apply for, retention of ‘as built ’ minor changes to an existing two storey dormer dwelling house, Planning Permission reference No. PD 00/1742, to include, roofs of the dormer windows, modi cation to windows, additional windows, provision of wall to open area, omission of canopy. In addition, I intend to apply for permission to reduce the size of the site allocated to the dwelling.

The application includes the retention of the existing waste water treatment tank in its current location with the provision of a new percolation area.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Shared Access Ltd is applying to the above planning authority for full planning permission for the erection of a 3m extension to the existing 21m Monopole to support 12No. New Telecommunications Antennae and 1No. 0.6m Dish together with 1No. RFE Cabinet, 1No. RBS Cabinet, 1No. PDB, 1No. GPS Node Antenna and all associated site works at Rear of Elphin Fire Station, Bishop Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Janine Gillespie, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following 1. To make alterations to the existing elevations, including changes to the front porch.

2. To convert part of the existing shed into a garden room, including alterations to the elevation of the shed, and carry out all ancillary site development works at The Presbytery, Cloonacarrow, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52KT20.

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 and that 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.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 085 1299470

E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie

Web: www.jlce.ie

Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Patrick Tighe, am applying for Retention Permission for 1.The construction of a glass conservatory to the side of an existing dwelling 2. The construction of a small porch to the rear of the dwelling and any other minor alterations to that which di er from Planning Reference Nr PD/97/68, and 3. The construction of a domestic garage with all associated site development works at Carrigeen Td, Kilglass, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. F42 VR82.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd., Consulting Engineers, C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile:(086) 8167365

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Vantage Towers Limited, intend to apply for (A) Retention Permission to retain an existing access track and hard standing area (B) Planning permission to erect a 24-metre-high lattice telecommunications support structure together with antennas, dishes and associated telecommunications equipment, all enclosed in security fencing, and to close the existing vehicular site entrance and to replace it with a proposed new vehicular site entrance at Carrowkeeny, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Seamus Moran, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of the following:-

1. Retention of access entrance to site with gates and piers onto public minor road.

2. Elevational changes to dwelling.

3. Pitched roof over front entrance lobby.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Following;

A) Proposed Demolition Of Existing Single Storey Extension To The Rear Of Existing Cottage Type Dwelling House

B) The Proposed Construction Of A Storey And A Half Extension To The Rear Of Existing Cottage Type Dwelling House

C) The Replacement Of An Existing Septic Tank System With An Onsite Sewerage System With Polishing Filter In Accordance With EPA Code of Practice 2021 And All Ancillary Works At Lecarrow Townland , Kilglass , Co. Roscommon for Seoirse O’Ruisc. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during it’s Public Opening Hours and 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.

facebook.com/moleskinarch Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

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

Signed: Rebecca Wynne c/o Donal McPhillips Architecture, 133 Main St., Derrylin, Co. Fermanagh. Tel: 048 677 41813 www. mcphillipsarchitecture.com

 TO RENT: Room to rent in house in Cloverhill, Wi-Fi, OFCH and solid fuel, shared accommodation. Phone: 087 6056974

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 and A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made, in writing, to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within five 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 planning application

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Sean Slamen, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following 1. To refurbish derelict house to include reconstructing roof, 2. To demolish existing garage and construct replacement domestic garage, 3. To widen existing entrance with new wing wall and pier, and carry out all ancillary site development works and all ancillary site development works at Knockroe, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that 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.

Signed:

We, The Board of Management of Lisaniskey National School, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a multi-sport all weather / astro turf pitch to include associated drainage, civil works, lighting, fencing and associated works at Lisaniskey National School, Ballymacfarrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon, F42K226.

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.

4. Planning permission to decommission existing septic tank and percolation area, construct new waste water treatment system and percolation area.

5. Associated works and services.

All at Cappagh, Curraghroe, 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 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: Cunningham Design & Planning Limited, Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd, on behalf of our clients: Liam Naughton & Elaine Burke, have furnished the planning authority signi cant further information in respect to planning application number PD24/19, for the site, located at: Carrigan More, Townland, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. The Development applied for consisted of:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road

Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365

Mob: 085 1299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie

Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in County Roscommon!

info@moleskinarchitecture.com CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

I, Joe Finnegan, intend to apply for permission for development at Ballyroddy, Elphin, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of retention of single storey rear extensions and side barn conversion. 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 the 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 Roscommon County Council 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: Vincent Durkin (Agent).

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect, Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. 090 6624681 / 087 635 8949 / stephen@sbarchitect.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd, on behalf of our client: Peter Kelly, intend to apply for Retention Permission for this site, located at: Kielty’s, Roxborough, Co. Roscommon F42 NR31. The Development (Permission for Retention) consists of:

(a) Retention and completion of partly constructed storage shed for domestic use.

(b) Retention for an as constructed tool shed. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during it’s Public Opening Hours and 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.

Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent), on behalf of Peter Kelly.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Karl Nerney, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to decommission existing septic tank and percolation area and install new waste water treatment system and percolation area at Doonahaha, Curraghroe, 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 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.

(a) Retention permission for revised elevations to that which was granted under planning register reference: PD04294, including: an as-constructed dormer window to the east elevation and revised arrangement to the fenestration to the west, north, and east elevations.

(b) Retention permission for an as-constructed garage/ boat storage.

Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at the offices of the Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information may be made in writing to the planning authority within the statutory time limit. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation.

Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent), on behalf of Liam Naughton & Elaine Burke.

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. For any of your foot issues call:

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment. Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

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

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS

Electrician Available

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

FIND

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

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

(Thursday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214 PODIATRIST

ROSCOMMON

EMAIL:

TEL:

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

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

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

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

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

AtYourService

LIFE COACHING

CAREER COACHING:

* CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS

* APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC/CIVIL and PRIVATE SECTOR COMPETENCY BASED APP FORMS

* INTERVIEW MASTERING (including competency-based questions)

* EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING

For more details check www.carolineburke.ie For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com CAROLINE BURKE CAREER & LIFE Coaching 086 8229606 www.carolineburke.ie

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

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653

PHYSICAL THERAPY

FAMILYNOTICES

McDERMOTT Ronan

Ballyglass, Ballyleague

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

Movement Matters

20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy

Medical Dry Needling

Prescription Orthotics

Pilates – Small Classes

In loving memory of of Ronan McDermott, Ballyleague, who died on June 19th 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

www.brianmurraystone.com E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

MORAHAN

Ita

• Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis

• Small Animal Ultra-Sound

• Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility

•24hrs Emergency Vet on call

Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday

• Saturday Clinic 10am - 3pm

Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT ANIMAL CARE/VETERINARY

your

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

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009

Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

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

To no longer see your face, breaks me every day. So suddenly you were taken, that I didn’t get to say, just how much I love you, and that you were my life. The hurt I felt when you passed cut me like a knife. I’ll never be complete again, I never will be free from this grief, a solid thing, deep inside of me. I wear a mask of coping, but am in complete despair. I cannot mend what’s broken, my heart is beyond repair. I’ll smile if I have to, but that is just a mask. And I’ll say that I’m okay, when people kindly ask. But I cannot be happy, it is something that I lack. Never will be whole again, for I cannot get you back.

Loved and remembered by his partner Emma and daughter Caitlin.

Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Saturday 22nd June at 7 pm.

Rooskey, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Roscommon

Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) Who passed away on 20th June 2023

On the First Anniversary of Ita’s death, her daughters Mary, Anne and Eileen together with all our extended family wish to express our sincere gratitude for all the kindness and support shown to us on the sad loss of our mother. A heartfelt thanks to all our relations, neighbours and friends who attended Ita’s Reposal, Funeral Mass and Burial, whether you travelled from near or far, your presence was greatly appreciated. Sincere thanks to our friends and neighbours who called to our home with food and helped provide refreshments for the many people who called and a big thank you to the neighbours who took care of the tra c management.

Thanks to those who sent Mass Cards, owers and wrote Condolence Messages online. Your thoughts and words were of great comfort. Thank you to all the wonderful caring sta in both Roscommon University Hospital and Sligo University Hospital and the outstanding service and support provided by Roscommon/Mayo Hospice homecare team. A special word of thanks to all the carers who attended Ita in her nal weeks at home. Thank you also to Dr. Regan and his team and to all at McAulli e’s Pharmacy.

To Fr. O’Connor and Fr. Whitney: thank you for celebrating Ita’s lovely Funeral Mass and to Carmel McLoughlin for the beautiful music.

A special thank you to Teresa for preparing the church. Sincere thanks to Pat and Marian McHugh for their professionalism and kindness with the funeral arrangements and to the grave diggers Paul and Adrian Fahy who prepared Ita’s nal resting place.

To the Percy French Hotel for providing the lovely meal after the burial, thank you.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our grateful appreciation. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Ita’s First Anniversary mass will be celebrated on Saturday 22nd June at 12 noon in The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Strokestown.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. A.B.

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

LYNCH

Ena (Nee Kinsella)

Slievenamon, The Walk Road, Roscommon Who passed away on the 25th of June 2023 (1st Anniversary)

On the First Anniversary of our beloved mother, Ena’s passing, we her family, Lorcan, Edel, Ronan and the Whelan family wish to express our sincere gratitude for all the sympathy, support and kindness, extended to the Lynch family on the passing of a loving mother,grandmother and sister. We would like to thank Dr.Brendan Crosby and team, Castle Street Medical Centre, Roscommon; Consultant Flory Daniels and team Portiuncula Hospital and the Palliative Care Team, Roscommon who enabled us to care for Ena at home. A special thanks to all the extended family, neighbours and friends especially Roisin and Deirdre, her wonderful nieces and her adored grandchild Ellen for their support during the nal weeks.

Thanks to Theresa and Maura, we are forever grateful for your kindness.

Thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism and guidence with the funeral arrangements and the grave diggers who prepared Mum’s nal resting place.

Thanks to Fr. Joe Fitzgearld, Fr. Ray Riordan and Fr. Gerard O Brien (RIP) who celebrated the Funeral Mass and to Fred Mulryan for the beautiful music.

Thanks to the Walk Road Residents for the Guard of Honour for Mum leaving home for the last time and to Roscommon Golf Club for the Guard of Honour at the church.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this as a token of our gratitude for your kindness and support.

We are forever grateful to you all. Ena’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 27th July at 7pm in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon. All are welcome to join us to remember Ena.

O’DONNELL

Michael & Margaret Racecourse Road, Roscommon

In loving memory of our father Michael who died on 5th June 2007 and our mother Margaret who died 18th July, 2022 Rest In Peace.

Those special years will not return when we were all together. But the memories that are in our hearts will stay with us forever.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all your family. Anniversary Mass for Michael and Margaret will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 22nd June at 10 am.

TULLY

Thomas

Carrigeen, Knockcroghery, Roscommon who died on 17th June 1994, . (30th Anniversary)

The man who thought us right from wrong, you always had to be so strong. Family values, you showed us many. Amongst your children, you were so happy.

Working man, with jobs to do, much to be done and that we knew.

A simple prayer you said with us.

A modest life with little fuss.

A purposeful father in everyway, important things you knew to say. The simple pleasures, to be enjoyed, playing cards, your skills deployed.

Always making time for friends, respect for you, never ends.

A mentor, teacher on the farm, time spent with you was such a charm. Loving much, our beautiful mother, for you, there could be no other. In each other’s arms you both can rest, the home you made, was a special nest. Humble and kind, Dad is no more.

A legacy left, that is for sure

Gone so long, but with the man above an everlasting memory of love

Loved always, your sons and daughters

McDONNELL

Bridie

27 Glenview, Galway Road, Roscommon

Who passed away on the 21st June 2015 (9th Anniversary)

You were so very special and had the nicest ways, you did so very much in life and never asked for praise. Remembering you is easy, we do it every day, but losing you is the heartache, that never goes away. You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of gold, you left the sweetest memories, the world could ever hold.

Life goes on that’s true, but it’s not the same without you.

Always remembered and forever loved by your husband James and family.

Anniversary Mass in The Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads, on Thursday, 15th August at 11am.

O’ROARKE

Teresa Creggs, Co. Galway (10th Anniversary)

Wife

What I would give if I could see you today.

To hear your voice and see your smile, or just to sit and talk a while.

To me you were someone special, someone set apart. Your memory will last forever, engraved within my heart

Always remembered and loved by your husband Michael.

Mum

A beautiful nature, a heart of gold. Your loss to us can never be told.

A special mother we can never replace, no verse, no flower no tears can say, how much you are loved and missed every day

GERAGHTY

Teresa

Correal, Athleague Who passed away on the 25th June 2004 (20th Anniversary)

Time may pass and fade away, but silent thoughts and memories stay. No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Fondly remembered by your loving sons, daughters, family and friends.

Always remembered and loved by your daughters, Ann Marie, Tracey, Niamh, Emma and son Enda.

Grandmother

Those who we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, But always here, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Always loved and remembered by your grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass, Divine Word Missionaires, Donamon, on Sunday 23rd June at 10 am.

McDERMOTT

Ronan

Ballyglass, Ballyleague

In loving memory of Ronan, who passed away on 19th June 2022. (2nd Anniversary)

After two years our eyes still fill with tears.

You are missed every moment of every single day.

We miss your smile, your joyful laughter and the heartfelt thank you that you shared to us every single day.

Our thoughts are full of sadness because you are no longer here and our hearts are broken since you went away.

We will cherish the memories of you for evermore.

Even though life goes on without you, our love for you never goes away.

In our darkest moments, we know that you are near.

Ronan, your spirit walks beside us every day, and we know that you are not gone too far away

Sadly missed and never forgotten by Mam, Dad, Sharon, Sean, Leah and Zara.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, June 22nd at 7 p.m. in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague.

McDERMOTT

Ronan

Ballyglass, Ballyleague

In loving memory of Ronan, who passed away on 19th June 2022. (2nd Anniversary)

Tenderly we treasure the past with memories that will always last You will always be remembered by Aunt Pauline, Tom, cousins Vicky and Pearl and their families.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, June 22nd at 7 p.m. in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague.

FINNERAN

Liam Lisgobbin, Derrane, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Liam who passed away on 20th June, 2021 (3rd Anniversary)

Your life was one of kindly deeds. A helping hand for other’s needs. Sincere and true in heart and mind, beautiful memories you left behind. Silent memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year. No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place, within our hearts, is always kept for you.

Thinking of you today and every day, Dad, loved by your sons, daugthers and families.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday 22nd June at 7pm.

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Anniversary)(2nd Anniversary)

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

HOARE

Owensie, Annie & Tom Son (TP) Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Our thoughts are ever with you though you have passed away. And those who loved you dearly are thinking of you today.

Lovingly remembered by Maudi, Sarah, Anne and Owen. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 22nd June at 10 am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

KELLY Kitty

Lisnaherka, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of our beautiful Mum who left us on 20th June 2022

When we FaceTimed you that afternoon, we never thought it would be the last.

But then God beckoned, and you were gone so fast.

One minute we were talking, the sun shining on your face. Then your gentle heart stopped beating, and our lives were forever changed.

Your will to live was strong, independent to the last.

But now all we have are our memories of the past.

We speak about you often.

You’re always on our mind.

To everyone you were Granny, whether son, daughter or grandchild

What I wouldn’t give to see your smile, so gentle and so kind.

To hold your work worn hands again, so nimble and full of pride.

To brush your hair and cut your nails, or place a kiss upon your cheek.

To give you just one more hug or just to sit and speak. There will be no more tapestries, signed with your name. now all we have are our memories, and your picture in a frame.

The day that you left us, the house stopped being a home. The chair you once sat in, now empty and forlorn. Even though my heart is broken, I know it was your time to leave.

You always gave so selflessly, so now I must believe that Dad met you at the pearly gates,Toby, by his side. He gave a wink and took your hand and now you’re back being his bride.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her sons Gerry and Joe; daughters Patricia and Marie; grandchilden, great grandchildren, sister and extended family.

Anniversary Mass in Church of the Immaculate Conception, Strokestown on Sunday 23 June, 11.30am

McMANUS

(nee Murtagh)

Geraldine (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Geraldine McManus, Aughmagree, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon who passed away on the 24th June 2013.

Memories Here’s to the ones that we got. Cheers to the wish you were here, but you’re not.

There’s a time that I remember, when I did not know no pain. When I believed in forever, and everything would stay the same. Now my heart feels like June when somebody says your name because I can’t reach out to call you.

Oh, the memories bring back, memories bring back you.

Now my heart feels like an ember and it’s lighting up the dark. I’ll carry these torches for you that you know I’ll never drop.

Sadly, missed by her husband Liam; her brother Peter and her sisters Annette, Madeline, Bernadette and Catherine; also her nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends and colleagues.

Geraldine’s Anniversary Mass is on Friday 21st June at 7.00pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan.

KILCOMMONS

Martin

Kilbegnet, Creggs (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Martin who passed away on July 3rd 2018

Until We Meet Again

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile.

If only I could have you back for just a little while. Then we could sit and talk again just like we used to do. You always meant so very much and always will do too. The fact that you’re no longer here will always cause me pain. but you’re forever in my heart until we meet again.

Sadly missed by his sons, daughters, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, brother and sisters-in-law.

A Heart of Gold

A heart of gold stopped beating, working hands at rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

Leaves and flowers may wither, the golden sun may set, but the hearts that loved you dearly are the ones that won’t forget.

Always loved and remembered by his grandchildren and great-grandchild

Anniversary Mass for Martin will be in Kilbegnet Church, on Sunday, 23rd of June at 11.30 am.

CUDDY

Patrick Oran, Roscommon

In loving memory of our dear father, grandfather and great grandfather, who passed away on 17th June, 1994 R.I.P.

(30th Anniversary)

Time and years slip gently by, but love and memories never die. Happy thoughts of times together, hold memories that will live forever.

Remembered always with love by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.

KELLY

John Tarmon, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather who died on June 23rd 2022. (2nd Anniversary)

Just a prayer from those who love you, just a memory ever true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you.

Always remembered and sorely missed by his wife and family.

John’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, June 23rd at 12 noon in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea.

BRENNAN

John

Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. (Formerly) Cloontogher, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of John, who died June 23rd, 2016.

We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

Loved and remembered by his family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 23rd June at 10am.

• Wall Plaques and Name Plates

• Grave Maintenance Service

Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723

E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

THANKSGIVINGS

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

3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O, most beautiful ower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. M.S.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART (In Di culties). Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for this special one (mention it). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own broken heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. M.J.K.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

REGAN

Noel (Patrick)

Ishlawn, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon who passed away on the 20th of June, 2023 (1st Anniversary)

As we lovingly remember Noel on his First Anniversary his family wish to express our sincere gratitude and deep appreciation to all who showed us kindness and provided support following the sad loss of our beloved Dad. We would like to express a heartfelt thanks to the wonderful sta at The Galway Clinic and in particular Dr. Pate and his team; the sta of the A&E department and all the sta of the O’ Malley Ward who cared for Dad with kindness and compassion on many occasions over 17 years. We will never forget the compassion and kindness shown to us as a family on the morning that Dad passed away suddenly. Thank you to Fr. John Keane for the prayers o ered for Dad at the hospital that morning, and to the patients on the ward with Dad for your kind words and recollections of your last conversations with Dad. We wish to thank the numerous paramedics that attended to Dad at our home for his last two years; to Grainne, Cormac and all the sta of Murphy’s Pharmacy; all the Public Health Nurses and the CareTeam, especially Bernie Brennan and Dr. Costello and all the Team at The Clinic in Ballaghaderreen; thank you all for the care and kindness shown to Dad over the years. Dad was a very proud Ballaghaderreen man, so it would have meant a lot to him to see the many neighbours that stood outside their homes; the members of Ballaghaderreen GAA and many former colleagues that formed a Guard of Honour; the people that stood outside their businesses as Dad made his nal journey from his home in Ishlawn through town to St. Nathy’s Cathedral and onwards to Kilcolman Cemetery to Dad’s nal resting place; our heartfelt thanks; we all really appreciated it.

Our sincere thanks to Fr. Joseph Gavigan and Fr. Paul Kivlehan for their many visits to Dad over the years; thank you for the wonderful support you have given our family, for the prayers o ered while Dad was reposing at home and for o ciating at Dad’s Funeral Mass and burial. Also our sincere thanks to Fr. Eugene Du y, Fr. Tommy Towey and Fr. Vincent Sherlock for concelebrating Dad’s Funeral Mass.

Thank you to the Sacristan John Frain for preparing the church; to Anne Carmody, Anne O’Brien and the members of the Folk Group for the beautiful music and singing in the church which enriched the Mass, to Eunice Moran who sang Dad’s favourite songs in the graveyard so beautifully; this meant so much to us; thank you all most sincerely. Thank you to Brendan and Angelina Nugent for the live streaming of Dad’s nal journey and Funeral Mass.

We express our profound thanks to the Funeral Director Tommy Sharkey, Bernie and all the sta for the dignity and respect shown to Dad at all times. Their professionalism and attention to detail ensured Dad’s nal journey from Galway to home and to his nal resting place were carried out in a sensitive manner while allowing us to ful l Dad’s nal wishes along the way. Their kindness and empathy to us as a family over such di cult days will always be appreciated. Thanks to Michael and all at Carney Memorials for their help in preparing Dad’s grave and thanks also to the grave diggers; the Bell Brothers, for their hard work and the considerate way they prepared Dad’s nal resting place beside his beloved wife May; this was greatly appreciated. A special thank you to All Seasons Flowers for the beautiful oral arrangements.

We have been comforted by the volume and sincerity of condolences we have received. We thank all who travelled from near and far that sympathised with us during the funeral, to those who called to our home for Dad’s reposing, attended the funeral and burial and to those who could not travel but watched online, those who sent Mass Cards, sympathy cards, enrolments, letters, emails, text messages, telephone calls, owers, Funeral wreaths, trees to plant in Dad’s memory, made donations to St. Vincent De Paul and those who posted messages of sympathy on RIP.ie, Midwest radio and other social media forums. To those who shared precious memories of our beloved Dad and speak so fondly of him; we thank you for taking time to remember the wonderful person Dad was and this will always be remembered. A special thanks to Dad’s numerous colleagues and friends who shared special memories of Dad with us over the past year.

A sincere thanks to all that o ered help over the days of the funeral; we greatly appreciate all that you did with a special thanks to Colm, Claire, Sharon, Laura and Eamonn. Thanks to all who brought food and refreshments to our home with a special thanks to Suzanne. Thank you to those who helped out at our home to ensure everyone was looked after; Mary, Bridie, Patricia and Stephaine; to all that helped out with tra c management at our home; Pat O’, Pat, John and David, and to Durkin’s for providing the meal after the funeral.

We were privileged to have had such an exceptional father and we wish to thank everyone who contributed to the many aspects of his life which he enjoyed so much; family, work and horse racing. We especially thank all of those who worked with Dad over a long career. All his work colleagues meant so much to him and he loved those chats and memories that you all helped to create. There was a special bond with all of you he worked with and helped Dad in any way during his work life and he always appreciated this; so, a sincere thank you to you all.

The past number of years have been di cult, but it has been greatly helped by the incredible support and kindness of our wonderful neighbours, colleagues and friends who continue to be there for us. Your kindness and support will always be remembered. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Your word was your bond

A man of vision and strength

Who built dreams from the ground up

With hands that crafted buildings tall

And a heart that cherished family above all

In the world of business you shone bright

A beacon of success and a guiding light

But beyond the bricks and mortar laid

Your love for family never swayed

You suffered much in silence

Your spirit did not bend

You faced each day with courage

And smiled right to the end

Horse racing brought you joy and cheer

A passion that you held dear

Now that you take your final race

We cherish memories, love and grace

Though you are gone Dad

Your legacy stands

In the buildings tall and your loving hands

Forever in our hearts you will be

A husband, father and a friend

Forever loved and missed by your loving daughter Mary; sons Nathy, Noel, Bartley and John; grandchildren Seán, Kevin, Conor, Aisling, Jack, Ciarán, Luke, Oisín, Katelyn, Anna-Mai and Noel; great-granddaughter Cara May; daughters-in-law Patricia, Colette and Joanne; sister Eileen (Gannon) and family; brother Bartley and family; sisters-In-Law Nora (Kelly), Eileen (Sullivan), Breda (Tierney), and brother-in-Law; Andy (Carey) and their families.

First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen on Sunday 23rd of June at 10am

HOARE

Tom (TP) (14th Anniversary)

It hurts like yesterday. You always had time to spare, time to give and time to care. A loving nature a heart of gold the very best this world could hold. Sadly missed by your loving wife Rita and daughter Lorraine.

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

A date that’s filled with sadness returns to us today. To mark the day, you left us and gently slipped away. Always remembered by Derek, Orla, Dillon and Katie and Eloise.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ A little tribute small and tender just to show we still remember From Francis, Natasha, Evan, Emily, Rebecca and Eoghán.

Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon, on Saturday, 22nd June at 10am.

WALSH

John

Ballyglass, Ballymoe, Castlerea, Co. Galway (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of John, who passed away on 25th June

2018 R.I.P.

Just a prayer from the family that loved you. Just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you. Sadly missed by your sister Kathleen and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday 23rd June at 10am.

GRADY

Michael Carnamadda, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Michael whose anniversary occurs on 20th June, 2024 (37th Anniversary)

Planted deep in memory’s garden and watered daily with tears

Memory has a magical way of keeping loved ones near Just like the sweetest Rose, the petals fell too soon But the love you planted in our hearts will never cease to bloom.

Forever in our thoughts & prayers Peg, Tara and Brendan, Mark and Cáit and grandchildren Conor, Éabha, Alice and Rían.

~~~~~

I’m writing this from Heaven. Where I dwell with God above. Where, there’s no more tears or sadness; There is just eternal love.

When you are walking down the street and you’ve got me on your mind I’m walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind. And when you feel that gentle breeze, or the wind upon your face, that’s me, giving you a great big hug or just a soft embrace. And when it’s time for you to go from that body, to be free remember, you’re not going, you are coming here to me

Lovingly remembered by Marion and Michael, Niamh and Alan, Paul, Brenda, Caoimhe & Ruairí.

~~~~~

Michael, remembering you is easy. we do it every day. Missing you is heartbreak that never goes away. You are missed and will never be forgotten. Lovingly remembered by his twin brother, Andy.

Anniversary mass on Sunday 30th June at 11.30am in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow.

PLANNING NOTICE EXTRA

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We RHS Home Care are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the change of use from Class 1 Shop to Class 10 for use as a Social Centre / Non-residential club on ground oor level at premises known as E.T.L., Ardnanagh Td., Main Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 Y889.

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

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

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a speci c week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

Sports PEOPLE

Tyrone a tough test for Rossies!

All-Ireland SFC

preliminary quarter-final:

Tyrone v Roscommon on Saturday at Healy Park, Omagh at 5 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon footballers were handed probably the toughest of the three possible draws that they could have got on Monday morning. It was either Galway, Tyrone or Louth away, and now Davy Burke and his side find themselves preparing for the mother of all battles in Omagh this Saturday.

Tyrone will be hot favourites to go through, but Roscommon are not without a chance if they play to their very best. But there is no denying that this is a very formidable challenge.

Tyrone are certainly not the team of three years ago, nevertheless they still have some top class players. Players who are still there from their All-Ireland winning campaign of 2021 include brilliant goalkeeper Niall Morgan, Michael McKernan, Padraig Hampsey, Mattie Donnelly, Peter Harte, Conn Kilpatrick, Brian Kennedy, Michael O’Neill, Cathal McShane and Darren McCurry. When you add in the multi-talented Canavan brothers, Ruairí and Darragh, it’s a reminder that the Red Hand are still a force to be reckoned with.

Tyrone have been in mixed form in this championship. In Ulster, they edged out a gritty Cavan team by a point in the quarter-final before being defeated by two points by Donegal in the semi-final. In their subsequent round robin group games they were well beaten by Donegal, recorded an emphatic win against Clare and defeated Cork by four points last weekend.

From loyal Rossie Owen McManus in Wexford

Come on the Rossies!

While their form may have been up and down, the one constant is the threat of the Canavan brothers and Darren McCurry up front. They can also point to their strong midfield partnership and the performances of Mattie Donnelly in his new position at centre half-back.

The loss of Conn Kilpatrick (who received a red card against Cork) will be significant as he and Brian Kennedy have been the established Tyrone midfield in recent years. Expectations in Tyrone are always high when it comes to the championship, but the reality is

that they have been overtaken by Armagh and Donegal in the Ulster pecking order in the past three years.

So what of Roscommon? They will go into this game in a much better frame of mind after that good win against Cavan last weekend. It was so refreshing to see Roscommon play attacking football and using their talented forwards.

It was also a big bonus to see all of our marquee players doing well. Enda Smith playing well is so important to this Roscommon team. Brian Stack was also excellent last Saturday and

centre half-back is his best position. Diarmuid Murtagh is back to his very best this year and is a joy to watch when in full flight, and Daire Cregg is beginning to realise his full potential. When you add in Donie Smith and Conor Cox, it’s a great mix of attacking talent.

In the NFL game between the two counties Roscommon were in a good position initially, but in the second half Darragh Canavan ran riot, inspiring a Tyrone win. The Roscommon defence, which worryingly conceded 1-20 against Cavan, will have to tight-

en up considerably in Omagh. Roscommon will have to get a foothold in midfield to give their attack the required scoring chances. It’s a tall order, even with Tyrone being without Conn Kilpatrick. The Cavan win has given Roscommon a timely boost and they will travel with a good chance of causing a shock. Roscommon being in the role of underdogs is good. I’m not ruling out the Primrose and Blue producing a surprise, but everything points to a Tyrone win on their home turf.

Prediction: Tyrone.

Defiant Davy relishes a welcome win

 SEAMUS DUKE

It was a happy and defiant Roscommon manager Davy Burke who chatted to the media after last Saturday’s All-Ireland SFC round robin win over Cavan in Longford. The Kildare native was thrilled that Roscommon’s losing streak had ended.

“We’re just glad to get over

the line. It has been 16 weeks since we had that winning feeling, so we’re just glad to be back winning matches.

“It was a shootout. Some games are like that. I don’t think Roscommon or Cavan set up to turn it into a game like that. We didn’t want to concede 1-20, but some games just take on a life of their own. But we have the forwards and

we should have won by more. There were a lot of bad wides near the end. We scored 1-15 the last day (against Mayo) and 3-20 today. We’re slowly getting there. Hopefully it’s on the way”.

The Roscommon manager also had words for the media, a response to criticism of the team in recent months.

“It’s more about the win. We

just wanted any kind of win. It’s 16 weeks since we beat Monaghan. That’s a long time ago. You hear a lot of rubbish about what’s going on in the camp, so I’m delighted for the players. They stood together. If they were listening to outside stuff, we’d all be gone home long ago. The players stood strong, trained hard, and ultimately got their reward.

“We are not a bad team. I know a lot of ye boys mightn’t think that. I’m glad they might have shut a few people up for a while.

Let’s see what happens in the draw now”.

Looking ahead, Burke said that Roscommon will be very competitive regardless of who they are playing (they drew Tyrone in Monday’s draw).

“This time last year, we were

beaten by Cork by a point. Kildare were beaten by a point by Monaghan. We’ll be in a game next weekend, and there won’t be much in it, a point one way or the other. There’s a winning feeling in our dressing room now. The players stuck together, they’ve dug it out and now we’re in the exact same place as we were this time 12 months ago” he concluded.

Fingers crossed! Roscommon manager Davy Burke kept his ngers crossed that his team could do enough against Cavan to get through to the preliminary quarter- nal this weekend. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Royal Ascot review… and what’s still to come!

Horses for Courses

On the opening day of Royal Ascot there was one Irish winner, Belloccio, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by William Buick in the closing Copper Horse Handicap (won last year by Mullins with Vauban). Gavin Cromwell’s My Mate Mozzie finished 3rd. Aidan O’Brien was out of luck as Henry Longfellow was caught in the shadow of the post in the St James’s Palace by the Guineas winner, Rosallion, and beaten a neck.

The Group 2 Queen’s Vase was won by Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore with Illinois who beat stablemate Highbury and Jessica Harrington’s Birdman in an Irish clean sweep (by 1¼l and ¾l). This is Moore’s 80th Royal Ascot winner and leaves him one behind the all-time record of 81 held by Frankie Dettori, who is in Ascot, but on holidays. In the Prince of Wales Stakes Auguste Rodin completed a double for

Nutrition Night

O’Brien and Moore, beating the pair of French-trained horses, Zarakem and Horizon Dore ¾l and 1l. Victory gave O’Brien his 400th Group 1 win on the flat and Moore equalled Frankie Dettori’s all-time record of 81 Royal Ascot winners. Moore rode his first Royal Ascot winner in 2008 on Colony for Michael Stoute. Today (Thursday) O’Brien and Moore will try to extend both records. In the first with Whistlejacket in the opening Norfolk Stakes they will be opposed by the Adrian Murray Westmeath-trained Arizona Blaze ridden by David Egan, who is not without a chance. In the Group 1 Gold Cup there are two Irish-trained horses, Kyprios by Aidan O’Brien and Vauban, trained by Willie Mullins, both of which will have to be at their best to account for the Gosden-trained pair Greaoru and Trawlerman.

O’Brien and Moore to extend their Royal Ascot records. There are two Group 1 races on Friday, the Commonwealth Cup and the Coronation Stakes. Kevin Ryan’s Inisherin, 6th in the 2000 Guineas, bypassed Tuesday’s St James’s Palace Stakes and has been supplemented for Friday’s Commonwealth Cup at a cost of £45,000 where he is the antepost favourite and hard to oppose. O’Brien runs Military, ridden by Moore. In the Coronation Stakes O’Brien runs two, Opera Singer and Content. Moore should hit high notes on Opera Singer. The highlight of Saturday’s card is the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes in which Ryan Moore rides The Wizard Of Eye for English trainer Charlie Fellows.

This weekend’s action

An all-flat racing weekend starts this evening at Leopardstown, off at 4.45 pm. There is a two-day meeting at Down Royal starting tomorrow (Friday) evening at 4.50 pm and again on Saturday afternoon featuring the Ulster Oaks

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

After a successful event last year, chef Atila Tavares will again host a Nutrition Night in the club. Players and parents from selected boys and squads will be invited to attend.

There will be information, a demonstration and tasting on the evening. The key focus of the event is making positive food choices to support one’s health and improve physical performance.

Thanks to Chef Atila for taking the time to share his expertise.

Women’s Social Soccer

Every Monday evening at the astro pitch at 7 pm. All welcome.

Thank you

Thanks to those of you who supported our recent Euro 2024 Tenner Winner Fundraiser. Enjoy the games and may the best team win. Remember, it’s €100 for the winner and €50

for the losing finalist. The final is on July 14th Player Profile

Name: Amelia Bury Teams: Girls and Boys U-12s

Position: Striker/midfielder

Three words that describe me: Fast, friendly, sporty

Skill strength: Speed Skill weakness: Defence

Favourite team: Barcelona

Favourite player: Messi

Favourite Irish player: Katie McCabe

Best stadium in the world: Camp Nou

Messi or Ronaldo or neither: Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or neither: PlayStation

Favourite film: Meg 2

Favourite food: Pizza

Favourite song: Prada

Favourite book: Wonder

What makes me happy: Football

Person I admire the most: My Dad

and Ulster Derby, both handicaps, away at 2.05 pm. Racing on Saturday also sees a meeting at Limerick. Stalls for the first open at 1.40 pm. There is no racing on Sunday and on Monday evening racing is in the picturesque setting of Ballinrobe at 5.10 pm.

ITV coverage this week starts today with coverage of four races

In association with the

from Royal Ascot on ITV 4 and three on ITV. Tomorrow and Saturday there are three on ITV and four on ITV 4.

Today (Thursday) the feature at Royal Ascot is the Group 1 Ascot Gold Cup, tomorrow the Commonwealth Cup and the Coronation Stakes are both Group 1 races, and on Saturday, the Queen

Why I play soccer: To be better and hopefully play professional football Hopes for the season: Win a trophy Club Store

Shop now on roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie Adidas and KCS clothing ranges in stock. Support the Town in style this season.

Follow Us!

We have three social media channels – Instagram, Twitter, Facebook. Photos, news and club events will be posted on these platforms.

Wise Words

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others – Gandhi

Our Community. Our Children. Our Club.

Competition Corner

There’s a second chance to win tickets for the Roscommon meeting on the 2nd of July. To be in with a chance, please tell us which locally owned horse won the Connaught National Chase at Roscommon on the 10th of June? We also have tickets for Roscommon on the 8th of July and we want to know by what name is Roscommon’s Racecourse known?

Answers as usual on a postcard please to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm on Wednesday, 26th of June for Roscommon on the 2nd of July and for Roscommon on the 8th of July by the 3rd of July!

Do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Buccs are going green!

The skyline at Buccaneers has taken on a new look following the recent installation of 91 solar panels on The Bounty’s roof.

These panels can generate up to 38KW of energy at the home of Buccaneers Rugby Football Club. Club President Lorna Stuart Trainor says it is expected to reduce costs significantly over the coming years in addition to contributing towards a sustainable environment.

The panels were installed by Solarstream from Carlow while Electric Skyline from Claremorris are currently fitting LED bulbs to the floodlighting system at Dubarry Park.

This green initiative at Buccaneers has been supported by an SEAI grant and the Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union’s Community Support Fund and the club gratefully acknowledges their benevolence.

Training resumes on July 2nd: With the All-Ireland League kicking off earlier than ever, Buccaneers adult players will resume training at 7 pm on Tuesday, July 2nd The AIL kicks off this season on September 21st and will be preceded as usual by the Connacht Senior League. Buccs Summer Camp: Buccaneers Rugby Summer Camp will take place from 12th to 16th of August from 9.30 am to 12 noon daily. Free club boot bag and hat. €70 for first child; €50 for additional children.

Summer Skills Sessions: Buccaneers Summer Skills Sessions continues throughout the summer. This is an ideal FREE facility for girls and boys from U-13 to U-17 to maintain and indeed improve their rugby skills. The sessions take place at Dubarry Park from 11 am to 12.15 pm on Saturdays.

Membership subscriptions: Annual membership subscription rates have been set for the coming season with some minor fine-tuning and minimal cost increases. This year the club is utilising the Clubforce platform which will open for renewal of subscriptions at the beginning of July.

Pictured following the installation of the solar panels at Buccaneers Rugby Football Club are (l-r) Lorna Stuart Trainor (President, Buccaneers RFC), Claire Mulvihill (Marketing Executive, Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union) and Ronan Bushell (Buccaneers Sustainability Committee).

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

by Tom Red

Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes complete the list of top class races at Royal Ascot.

Rosallion (in yellow) swoops to catch Henry Longfellow.

Pictured are the Roscommon Town boys U-12 Town 1 Team.

Pictured are the Roscommon Town girls U-12 Team.

SportsPeople

Ruthless Roscommon in big win over Mayo

Junior All-Ireland Camogie Championship Roscommon 4-23 Mayo 0-3

The Roscommon camogie team put on a fantastic attacking display to inflict a huge 32-point defeat on a poor Mayo team in the Junior All-Ireland Camogie Championship last Saturday in Ballyforan. It was a dominant performance by the Roscommon ladies from the start. They led 1-11 to 0-2 at half-time. Claire McNeill finished highest scorer, with 2-3. Joint Roscommon managers Eoin Hardiman and Cian

Short putts

BOYLE

Hard luck to our Jimmy Bruen Shield team who had a very narrow loss against a strong County Sligo Golf Club team during this year’s Connacht Interclub golf competition.

Congratulations to Owen O’Donohoe who won the 18hole v par competition played on 8th and 9th of June.

This coming Sunday, June 23rd, is the date for the always keenly contested Men’s President’s Prize. This year’s President is Terry Canning.

The competition will be the traditional format of an 18hole Strokeplay followed by a 9-hole play-off at 6 pm for the top placed finishers. The presentation will take place in the clubhouse directly after the conclusion of the play-off. There will also be a President’s Scramble on the evening of Friday, the 21st of June to which all club members are invited. The men’s Thursday evening 12-hole competitions continue.

ROSCOMMON

The Roscommon Golf Club ‘Club Classic’ fundraiser takes place this weekend, June 22nd and 23rd. There are great prizes on offer. €200 entry per team of 4 (which includes a meal). Contact 086 8592121 for time sheet.

Well done to Bernie Maher who won the recent 18-hole ladies competition with 36 pts.

Last Saturday’s 18-hole ladies winner was Margaret Brennan with 38 pts.

The Dermot Hughes-sponsored men’s 18-hole competition winner was Kevin Glynn with a score of 44 pts.

Congratulations to Noel Sharkey on leading from the front to win Tom Costello’s President’s Prize on 136 pts recently.

Ryan had made five substitutions by the 39th minute, allowing some of their key players to rest ahead of this Saturday’s game against Cavan.

The win over Mayo meant that Roscommon are two from two in the championship so far after they defeated favourites Limerick two weeks ago in the opening round.

With the top team in each group qualifying directly to an All-Ireland semi-final and second and third place qualifying for the All-Ireland quarter-finals, Roscommon look guaranteed to advance to the knock-out stages.

They face Cavan in round three this Saturday at Padraig Pearses’ ground in Woodmount at 2 pm.

Galway, Mayo and Roscommon in action

Championship Watch < SEAMUS DUKE

There’s another very busy weekend ahead in the football and hurling championships, however all the major games, bar the football fixture between Louth and Cork, are shoehorned into Saturday.

In fact the fixtures schedule this week is ludicrous, with several major games going on at the same time. This is because of a commitment the GAA gave that the Tailteann Cup semi-finals would have ‘stand-alone’ status on Sunday, with live TV coverage. It is something that the authorities will have to address going forward.

In the preliminary football quarter-finals, three of the games are on Saturday. (See separate preview for Roscommon v Tyrone game).

Galway face Monaghan at 4 pm in Salthill. I watched the Galway v Armagh match last Sunday and the Tribesmen threw victory away with some serious defensive lapses late on. They have a lengthening injury list too. But they should have enough to edge out Vinny Corey’s side.

Game of the day is in Castlebar. Is there one last kick in Derry? Their performance against Westmeath doesn’t suggest that there is. Mayo were excellent against the Dubs and they should win here, but it will be competitive.

I fancy Cork against Louth on Sunday. They are an improving side and are good

enough to deal with the Wee County.

In the aforementioned Tailteann Cup semifinals, Down should be good enough to account for Sligo while Laois will be favourites to beat Antrim in the second game. In the hurling championship Dublin play Cork on Saturday at 1.15 pm, a throw-in time which is not going to do a lot to promote that game. Cork should be too strong in that one.

The second game is at 3.15 and will see Clare face Wexford. This should be a lot closer. A lot will depend on how Clare have come out of that Munster final defeat to Limerick. Wexford are very unpredictable. I give a hesitant nod to the ‘Banner’.

GAA results

All-Ireland SFC Group Two Roscommon 3-20 Cavan 1-20

All-Ireland Junior Camogie Championship Roscommon 4-23 Mayo 0-3

GAA fixtures Saturday, June 22nd

All-Ireland Junior Camogie Championship At Woodmount: Roscommon v Cavan. 2 pm

All-Ireland SFC Preliminary Quarter-Final At Healy Park, Omagh: Roscommon v Tyrone. 5 pm

(News from local golf clubs)

Alan Craven, nephew of the late Michael Craven, recently won the Michael Craven Memorial Cup, sponsored by XLNT Signs Ltd, at Roscommon Golf Club. The family were delighted as the Craven name is now on the cup for the first time since the competition began eleven years ago.

Pictured is Alan with the Michael Craven Memorial Cup and members of the Craven family.

The Roscommon camogie team had a comprehensive 32-point win over Mayo last Saturday.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

A nightmare for Mcllroy… in broad daylight

The golf last Sunday night? It was incredible… riveting drama, epic sporting theatre. Rory Mcllroy’s lonely pursuit of a fifth major title – he had won four by 2014 – has become one of sport’s most compelling stories.

With a few holes of Sunday’s final round in the US Open to play, Mcllroy had overhauled Bryson DeChambeau’s overnight three-shot advantage, and led by two. The elusive fifth major was within his grasp. The Northern Ireland superstar was two clear – and putting brilliantly.

Then, on the 16th hole, Mcllroy had a calamitous miss… with a two foot six inch putt. (For perspective: he had sunk his previous 496 putts from inside three foot this year). Like millions of tv viewers, I wondered if the pressure was once again going to overpower him.

A classic duel had developed between the Northern Irishman and DeChambeau. Teeing off on the 18th (his final hole of the tournament) the County Down man was still in the driving seat, despite that shocker on the 16th green. But heartbreakingly for Mcllroy and his fans, the Northern Irishman missed a four-footer on the 18th For what it’s worth, Mcllroy’s putt seemed to have been struck perfectly, but the ball cruelly lipped out of the hole, a heartless punchline to the latest chapter in the story of Mcllroy’s ongoing majors’ anguish. Moments later, with Mcllroy already a broken man in the clubhouse, the brilliant DeChambeau wrapped up the title with a wonderful bunker shot.

For Mcllroy, it was a nightmare… in broad daylight.

We need to talk about Rio and Micah!

From the segments of Euro 2024 that I’ve seen so far, it’s not clear to me yet whether or not England can win the tournament. What is clear to me is that certain celebrated English pundits cannot possibly win the TV punditry battle.

I’m not opting for lazy bashing of UK pundits here; we have a few uninspiring studio (RTE) heroes ourselves!

But for now – it is early stages – I will confine my views to the BBC panel. The coverage I’ve seen so far has mostly featured Gary Lineker as anchor, with the mind-numbing duo of Rio Ferdinand and Micah Richards at his side (David Moyes and Dion Dublin, with host Alex Scott, was a marginally better combination on Monday night’s highlights show).

For BBC’s live coverage of England’s opener (against Serbia) they had Spain’s Cesc Fàbregas seated between Rio and Micah. Were I to use a comedic comparison (which I may as well), this would be akin to seating Billy Connolly between the 2

Johnnies at a comedy awards show.

Well, I’m not suggesting that Fàbregas is a genius as a pundit, but his contribution surely saved the sanity of millions of viewers, as the former Arsenal star brought urgently needed perspective and common sense in the face of woeful (and predictably overly partisan) guff from the others.

Why

fear Tyrone? Let’s attack them!

Roscommon supporters – if I can generalise – tend to collectively frown at the prospect of playing Tyrone. The top teams in Ulster are tough, nononsense operators, the narrative goes. Getting a win up north is extremely difficult. That applies to Donegal, Armagh, and one or two others. But historically, it has particularly applied to Tyrone.

Roscommon supporters, most at least, tend not to fancy our chances against Tyrone, especially when it’s an away fixture.

But that (however understandable it would

be) doesn’t have to be the mindset this weekend, when Roscommon and Tyrone meet in an All-Ireland SFC preliminary quarter-final.

Yes, Roscommon will be underdogs, but that can be an advantage. After last weekend’s free-flowing win over Cavan, there is surely an argument for Roscommon to go on the attack this Saturday. Playing conservatively/ defensively hasn’t served Roscommon well this year. Take that approach this weekend and it is likely that Tyrone will out-muscle us. Making this showdown a shootout might just offer Roscommon the best prospect of gaining a famous win.

Keep bringing Dubs on tour!

Bringing the Dubs out of Croke Park, down the country, creates GAA gold. Last Sunday in Roscommon was terrific. The Dublin supporters travelled in huge numbers. It was a bonanza for local businesses.

It showcased Dr Hyde Park, which comfortably and impressively played host to the Dublin-Mayo game. The actual game itself was a

fantastic contest. The tighter pitch (relative to Croke Park) and the great atmosphere generated by 17,000 fans – which could not have been replicated in the vast HQ – contributed to, perhaps led to, the gladiatorial-like battle. The Dublin supporters enjoyed being ‘on tour’, embracing the novelty of following their team to a rural venue. The buzz and atmosphere in the county town all day was special. Bringing the Dubs out of Croke Park is good for the GAA, good for Dublin supporters, great for the host town… and it gives their playing opponents a fairer chance too!

A word on the Hyde…

The feel-good factor at Hyde Park last Sunday was off the scale. Warm weather, a fabulous looking pitch, new seating, a large crowd, a wonderful atmosphere (the town side goal end transformed into a mini-‘Hill 16’), two fiercely committed and athletically impressive teams, and a magnificent match which thrilled the audience to the last kick. Well done to Roscommon GAA and all associated with the flawless hosting on the day.

Roscommon fans pictured at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford last Saturday for the All-Ireland SFC group two game between Roscommon and Cavan. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Chris Giblin pictured with James and Andrea Lavin at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford last Saturday for the All-Ireland SFC group two game between Roscommon and Cavan. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Smith finally ends

Cavan resistance

All-Ireland SFC Round Robin (Group 2)

Roscommon 3-20 Cavan 1-20

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon and Cavan footballers threw off the shackles at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford on Saturday last, producing a thrilling shootout for the 3,962 spectators in attendance on a mostly sunny summer’s evening.

At the end of it all Roscommon’s superior attacking threat and their ability to get goals at crucial stages of the game was the difference between the teams, and it puts them through to the final 12 in the race for the Sam Maguire Cup. Roscommon’s marquee players stood up to the plate on the evening as well, and that was also a key element in their success. Diarmuid Murtagh, Enda Smith, Daire Cregg and Brian Stack were magnificent, driving their team on throughout this very entertaining scorefest.

It was evident from early on in the contest that a focus on defence and conservative football was not part of the game plan of either side. Roscommon led 0-4 to 0-2 after 10 minutes, with Donie Smith, Diarmuid Murtagh, Conor Cox and Enda Smith all on target.

Cavan were enterprising too, and in Gerard Smith and Cormac O’Reilly they had attackers capable of causing mayhem for the Roscommon defence, which they did so repeatedly.

That said, points on the spin for Roscommon from Murtagh, Cregg and Shane Cunnane opened a three-point gap by the 18th minute, and then a stroke of good fortune arrived for Davy Burke’s men in the 21st minute.

Diarmuid Murtagh’s shot for a point from out on the left looped over Cavan goalkeeper Gary O’Rourke, landing in the far corner of the net. It put the Rossies five points ahead. By half-time they led 1-11 to 0-10.

It certainly wasn’t all plain sailing for Roscommon as Cavan were always a threat. Indeed they missed two clear goal chances in that first half. In the 23rd minute Ryan Donohoe’s shot was brilliantly blocked on the line by Robbie Dolan, and two minutes later Donohoe tried his luck again, only for Conor Carroll to make a fine save.

Points from Oisin Brady and Cormac O’Reilly on the restart reduced the margin to two, but in the 41st minute Roscommon struck for another crucial goal. This one was all about Enda Smith. The All-Star made a trademark barnstorming run through the middle of the Cavan defence before off-loading to Brian Stack, who fisted to the net.

In the nature of this game Cavan were far from finished. Sub Darragh Lovett was having a major impact and by the 53rd minute the gap was still just four (2-15 to 0-17).

In the 56th minute Luke Fortune’s crossfield pass was fisted to the net by another Cavan sub,

Dara McVeety, and it was game on once more. Two minutes later Enda Smith again came to Roscommon’s rescue. This time the Boyle star burst down the right, and although his shot was initially blocked, he followed up to put the rebound across the line. It was the score that finally broke Cavan’s resistance. In fairness to the Breffni men they never gave up and tacked on three fine points after that, but Roscommon matched them all the way with subs Ciaran Lennon and Andy Glennon making contributions on the scoreboard too.

Having criticised Roscommon for being conservative and tentative in their style of play this year, it is only fair to praise their change of approach this time around. It emphasised once again the talent that is there in attack if our forward players get enough ball (something that we have said consistently).

However, it has to be pointed out that defending is also part of the game, and the concession of 1-20 will surely be a worry for the team management as they prepare for another big knockout match this weekend.

But for the moment, let’s enjoy what was a refreshing and very welcome positive attacking display from the Roscommon team. Onwards and upwards from here – hopefully.

Teams & scorers

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Niall Higgins, Ruaidhri Fallon, Robbie Dolan; David Murray, Brian Stack (1-0), Eoin McCormack; Dylan Ruane,

Shane Cunnane (0-1); Daire Cregg (0-4, 1 mark), Diarmuid Murtagh (1-6, 2 frees), Enda Smith (11); Conor Cox (0-4, 1 free, 1 mark), Ultan Harney (0-1), Donie Smith (0-1). Subs: Ronan Daly for Ruane (40), Ciaran Lennon (0-1) for Harney (45), Andrew Glennon (0-1) for Donie Smith (53), Niall Daly for Dolan (62), Adam McDermott for Diarmuid Murtagh (65).

Cavan: Gary O’Rourke (0-1,’45); Luke Fortune, Brian O’Connell, Jason McLoughlin; Padraig Faulkner, Niall Carolan, Oisin Kiernan (0-1); Ciaran Brady, Ryan Donohoe; Ryan O’Neill (0-1), Cian Madden (0-1), Gerard Smith (0-5); Oisin Brady (0-3, 3 frees), James Smith (0-1), Cormac O’Reilly (0-4). Subs: Tiarnan Madden for Donohoe (23), Darragh Lovett (0-2, 1 mark) for O’Neill (half-time), Dare McVeety (1-0) for Kiernan (49), Conor Madden (0-1) for Cian Madden (53), Oisín Kiernan for Faulkner (55).

Referee: David Gough (Meath).

Stat Attack

Wides: Roscommon 9 (2, first half); Cavan 7 (3, first half)

Red cards: 0

Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: Roscommon 1 (Davy Murray); Cavan 1 (Padraig Faulkner)

Man of the Match: Diarmuid Murtagh (Roscommon)

Attendance: 3,962

Roscommon’s Enda Smith en route to scoring a vital goal in last Saturday’s All-Ireland SFC group two match at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell