I plan to register to vote for the first time to allow me to vote in the upcoming General Election. However, I believe that marketing companies use the Register of Electors for direct marketing purposes. Is this true and is there anything I can do to protect my personal information from marketing companies? I want to avoid getting junk mail as much as possible. Being registered to vote allows you to participate in deciding who represents you at local national and European government level.
In order to vote you must apply to be included on the Register of Electors. You may do so provided you are at least 18 years old on the day the Register comes into force (15 February) and have been ordinarily resident in the State on 1 September in the year preceding the coming into force of the Register. To vote in the upcoming General Election on 29th November, you must have been registered to vote by Tuesday 12 November 2024.
As regards your query on your information being used by marketing companies, kindly note that before October 2022, an edited version of the Register of Electors was available. This edited version could be used for direct marketing purposes. Since October 2022 however, there is no longer an edited version of the Register of Electors. It is now an offence for an organisation to use the full electoral register for direct marketing purposes.
WATCHING People
With PAUL HEALY
It was noon on SATURDAY!
I know that NOW!
How could you have thought… NOON ON SUNDAY!
I’m sorry!
SORRY? My political career has been put on hold for potentially five years!
OUR political careers! Look, I made a simple mistake. If we were to run in the General Election, we had to register by noon last Saturday. I thought it was Sunday. I was only ONE day out!
But you were in charge of logistics! And I warned you not to miss the deadline. High noon I called it!
I’m sorry!
You realise our credibility is shattered?
After all our preparations! After we finally decided that we’d run in the election… as a dream team! It’s so embarrassing!
Maybe we could run for the Seanad?
Yeah, maybe…
(They pause to check the salaries and perks of senators)
By the way, I had spoken to the Editor… not that it matters now…
Huh?
As agreed, I asked if he’d keep publishing our column after you and I both took a seat in Roscommon-Galway… of course it’s immaterial now.
Please tell me what he said…
He explained that if we were elected, there would be a conflict of interest if we kept
Thebarstoolboyos
commenting on current affairs in the Roscommon People Huh! So he would have dropped us! The rascal!
Actually, he was very gracious. He muttered something about democracy and public service being much more honourable than journalism, and said we would be doing the people of Roscom-
Relief for other candidates as Boyos miss election deadline… Endangered Species
mon-Galway a huge service if we gave up the column and committed ourselves to the service of others! He even offered to finance our campaign!
Ah, fair play. I wonder what he’ll think now when he hears we missed the deadline for lodging our nomination papers… Well…
When he finds out we’re not running and can continue writing the column for the next five years… He emailed me earlier. Said he’d heard about our unfortunate timing mishap. But he’s still insisting we should give up the column and voluntarily pledge all our spare time to the service of others… he even attached a list of community organisations we could join… Ah, that’s very touching. He’s not so bad after all!
(They pause to discuss what to do with the 100 posters that were delivered to them last Friday)
We CAN’T sell them to another candidate!
Yes we can! We’re not going to take a hit! They’ve no party logos on them… they’d be ideal for an independent candidate! Who’ll want 100 posters with OUR slogans on them?
But ‘Reduce the price of a pint’ is only in SMALL print…
Yeah, but ‘Free the plastic bottle caps’ is in MASSIVE print on the posters and that policy was unique to us!
Boxer Katie Taylor, who remains the undisputed world super-lightweight champion after (controversially) defeating Amanda Serrano in a classic bout in Texas
Rory McIllroy, who put a series of recent ‘nearmisses’ behind him by winning the DP World Tour Championship and a sixth career Race to Dubai crown It’s been a BAD week for… The Republic of Ireland soccer team, beaten 5-0 by England at Wembley Stadium after a second-half collapse
Embrace the Magic of Christmas at 2024 Tulsk Christmas Fair
With
less than three weeks to go until the Tulsk Christmas Fair, excitement is building for this Christmas event on Saturday, December 7th, from 1pm to 7pm, located in the heart of Tulsk Village at the Macra Hall (F45 AY06).
Commenting on the upcoming fair, event organiser Declan Donoghue said: “The idea behind the fair is not just markets but to cater for everyone based on my own past experiences with going to Christmas markets. As they have become such a popular part in the lead up to Christmas and having my own kids, I wanted to inject a bit of magic back into an event and I think it’s important that every child that attends leaves with something.”
TULSK
“This event is not only for the people of Tulsk but for all neighbouring communities, everyone is welcome. Through the generous sponsorship of business both here in Ireland and the UK, it allows me to achieve what I set out to do which is to have Free Entry to the event, providing FREE facepainting, cookie
decorating, arts and crafts, kid’s characters, singing and dancing and much more.”
“Christmas is an expensive time of the year for families and what is supposed to be a joyful occasion can
often be overshadowed with worries by the shear expense of everything.”
Families can also enjoy a competitively priced Santa Experience for just €5. Attendees can browse through 26 indoor and
outdoor market stalls featuring hot food and beverages, take part in story time with Mrs. Claus, enjoy kiddie rides, and visit ‘The Candy Cottage.’
Live entertainment will fill the stage throughout
the day, showcasing everything from Irish music and dance to local choirs and brass bands, as well as line dancing. We are particularly excited to announce a special performance by the incredibly talented soprano singer Maria Matthews, who recently performed at the Factory Gala Concert during the Wexford Festival Opera. Please note that this is a not-for-profit event, and any surplus funds generated, including from the Santa experience, will be dedicated to the Tulsk Macra Hall. This fair is not just for the people of Tulsk but invites all neighbouring communities to join in the celebration. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this Christmas event, where you’ll find enjoyable entertainment and a variety of stalls that will truly capture the magic of Christmas.
Tulsk
Convent of Mercy relaunches as Mercy College Roscommon, boasting new state-of-the-art facilities
The local school begins accepting enrolments this week for its first-ever co-ed intake of first-year students in 2025
< ALANNAH ITA HEALY
The Convent of Mercy in Roscommon town has relaunched as Mercy College Roscommon, the move coming as, from this week on, the school begins its transition to becoming a co-educational facility.
Opened by the Sisters of Mercy in 1929, the institution has an established reputation for providing exceptional education – even being listed as the fourth highest performing school in all of Connacht by the Irish Times in 2023.
Located on the Convent Road in Roscommon town, the school’s near 100-year legacy is reflected in the facility’s exterior – with the main building’s traditional stone facade being iconic to the school and indicative of its decades-long history. Inside however, the school has undergone substantial refurbishments in recent years, modernising its facilities to provide students with the latest resources and highest possible standards of education – with even more upgrades to come to the school in the near future.
The Roscommon People visited Mercy College Roscommon this week to speak to principal Miriam Hunt and staff about the transition the school is going through, and to get a look at the new refurbishments that have taken place.
Ms Hunt calls this relaunch as a co-educational facility, “a new and exciting development in the history of the school”, telling the Roscommon People this week that significant efforts have been made in recent years to further broaden the range of educational resources and options available to students – from physical refurbishments, to an extensive expansion of the curriculum and subjects on offer.
The Roscommon People had the chance to get a taste of these developments this week, kicking off the visit with a trip to the school’s newly-refurbished home economics room, where some of the school’s TY students were getting prepared for their class. The room, which is set to receive an official opening on December 12th, boasts a state-of-the-art, fully-equipped kitchen comprising ten self-contained units. The upgrades are
consistent with the stellar home economics education the department has been providing to students over the years, and offers pupils the best possible facilities with which to complete all culinary elements of their subject.
Next, the Roscommon People got a look at another of Mercy College Roscommon’s newlyrenovated spaces – one of the school’s science labs, where students were busy starting the morning’s chemistry class. This refurbishment received special acknowledgement last week on Friday, November 15th, when it was officially unveiled by Dr Mick Henry from the Environmental Protection Agency, who shared an inspiring presentation with the students regarding environmental protection. There has been significant investment in developing the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) facilities at the school in recent years, and the lab’s recent renovation is but one example of the excellent resources being made available to students to empower them to pursue and excel in vital scientific fields. During this week’s visit, the Roscommon People got a chance to see another such resource, which, introduced just a few years ago, has already proved a wonderful addition to
Mercy College Roscommon –the school’s design lab.
The state-of-the-art lab – a bright, modern, and playful space located just off the school’s canteen (also upgraded in recent years to feature a games area for students in addition to providing hot/cold food and refreshments) – boasts the latest equipment and technology for pupils studying applied technology (junior cycle) and technology (senior cycle). This includes access to laser-cutting, 3D-printing, and 3D-design CAD software. While being shown around the lab this week, the Roscommon People had the opportunity to see, in person, the fruits of Mercy College Roscommon’s investment in this field, getting a look at a couple of the impressive projects students have recently completed. Pupils have risen to the high standard of equipment made available to them, achieving significant success in every regard – in terms of their grades and recognition at regional/national awards, but also in terms of evolving their interest and creativity when it comes to technology.
Fitness Hub
Another area that has seen transformative renovation is the school’s fitness resources,
most notably with the opening of a brand new fitness hub last month – the official opening being carried out by Olympic boxer and Castlerea native Aoife O’Rourke. So expansive is this facility’s offerings, that when speaking to sixth-year students during this week’s visit, pupils found it difficult to list off, in entirety, the full range of equipment at their disposal in their new hub – which boasts everything from rowing machines and spinning bikes, to treadmills and weight training equipment. Evidently, the new hub provides students with every possible piece of equipment they may need to excel in Leaving Certificate physical education, as well as playing a pivotal role in promoting physical activity among students in general and complimenting the school’s established reputation for sporting success. Across the board, the school continues to provide a high standard of education in every discipline. For instance, the school library (which has been also renovated) remains open as a quiet space to students during lunch, promoting and facilitating reading for students. Another example is the school’s wonderful co-curricular and extra-curricular music pro-
gramme, with Mercy College Roscommon’s regular musical productions and award-winning chamber choir being but two of their most notable and celebrated offerings for interested students.
Principal Miriam Hunt noted that an intentional emphasis is placed on ensuring “that the individual needs of each student are addressed”, and this is reflected in not just the broad curriculum on offer, but also in the approach taken to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all learners – including neurodivergent students. To get a sense of the work being done in this regard, the Roscommon People got a chance to step into the school’s Suaimhneas Suite this week – a specialist classroom officially opened by Minister for Education Norma Foley early this year, which also incorporates a multi-sensory room and outdoor recreation area. This area represents the school’s commitment to ensure all students are able to thrive in their educational environment, even when traditional schooling methods/practices are unsuitable. Into the future, Mercy College Roscommon is keen to keep building on its resources for students: “We are also embarking
on a major new building project involving a multi-million euro extension approved by the Department of Education”, Ms Hunt highlighted. “This will complement the existing extensive facilities together with the recently-refurbished state-ofthe-art science lab, home economics room, applied technology room, and fitness hub”. The relaunch of Mercy College Roscommon as a coeducational facility, and the various refurbishments it has undergone and looks forward to, are reflective of the school’s established ethos of pursuing excellence in all areas of education and encouraging each student to reach their full potential. Looking ahead, Mercy College Roscommon is committed to continuing to provide an exceptional education for all students as it moves forward into this new era.
Open Day
Mercy College Roscommon’s open day takes place today (Thursday, November 21st), from 6 pm to 9 pm. For more information, visit rosconvent. ie, email info@rosconvent.ie, phone 090 6626321, or keep up to date with Mercy
Convent Roscommon on social media.
Pictured celebrating their results are some of the students from the Leaving Cert Class of 2024 who scored in excess of 600 points.
Dr Mick Henry from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pictured opening Mercy College Roscommon’s newly-renovated science lab. Pic: Lee Williamson Photography
Students Sophie Bailey, Annah McCormack, and Alice Glennon pictured with Olympic boxer Aoife O’Rourke at the opening of Mercy College Roscommon’s new fitness hub. Pic: Lee Williamson Photography
Martin McManus, Aoife O’Rourke, Iona Hanley (Head Girl), and Saoirse MacCabe pictured at Mercy College Roscommon during Aoife’s recent visit. Pic: Lee Williamson Photography
Students Lily Mae Gavigan, Amy Gannon, and Aoife Walsh pictured in Mercy College Roscommon’s newlyrenovated science lab. Pic: Lee Williamson Photography
THURSDAY
Podcasting the pols…
We’ve transformed one-third of our ‘back office’ into a studio… and are in full podcast mode! We’ve invited all eleven candidates standing in the General Election in Roscommon-Galway constituency to take part in a series of detailed interviews.
Some of the resulting podcasts have now been posted on the Roscommon People YouTube channel; more to follow as the days pass.
FRIDAY
Musings on Jon
I was greatly saddened to hear of the death today of the wonderful Jon Kenny. Not alone was he an extremely gifted entertainer – a brilliant comedian and very talented musician and actor – he was also a lovely, modest man.
A number of years ago, after the career high of his richly deserved success with Pat Shortt in ‘D’Unbelievables’, Jon was booked to perform in a play in Roscommon Arts Centre. When offered an opportunity to interview him, I jumped at the chance. After the interview, Jon asked where the craic was likely to be after the performance in the Arts Centre. I informed him that ‘Down the Hatch’ was a very nice, intimate pub where a few of us would be meeting later.
Shortly after 10.30 pm that night, this comedy giant casually strolled into the ‘Hatch’. The epitome of modesty, he joined us for a few drinks, punctuated by belly laughs effortlessly prompted by Jon. He was booked into Gleeson’s. A brief meeting with Jon the following day again left me with the impression that he was a notably likeable, humble and approachable individual.
His body of work will stand the test of time. As D’Unbelievables, Jon and Pat were extremely original and hilariously funny. It is very
PAUL HEALY’S WEEK
A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie
sad that Jon has passed on at the relatively young age of 66. He will be very fondly remembered. Jon Kenny (with Pat Shortt) brought much joy to the nation.
FRIDAY
A monument to Jimmy
Looking at the evocative old photographs on the walls of Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery brought back memories of receiving first-hand reflections on their significance from the great man himself, the late Jimmy Murray.
We gathered in ‘Jamesie’s’ tonight to be updated on plans to unveil a statue in memory of Jimmy, a ceremony that will take place in the village green on Sunday, December 1st next. It brought back memories of sitting with Jimmy in that same lounge area as Roscommon’s legendary All-Ireland double-winning captain chatted about some of those photos… while also producing his priceless scrapbook of newspaper cuttings, all bringing back to life the great feats of GAA teams around the country, with special emphasis
on Roscommon’s back-to-back All-Ireland senior triumphs in 1943 and ’44. How privileged those of us who got to know the ever-modest Jimmy well were. He died in 2007. Tonight, Thomas Murray, chairperson of the Jimmy Murray Statue Memorial Committee, outlined details of the exciting celebrations coming up in the village on Saturday, November 30th and Sunday, December 1st. Sculptor Mark Feeley was about to show me the finished product on his phone, but I declined, preferring to wait for the big unveiling!
It was lovely to hear that all Jimmy Murray’s playing colleagues in 1943 and ’44 (and the management) will also be referenced on the sculpture. It promises to be a great weekend and a fitting tribute to the great Jimmy Murray. Tonight’s press launch was a very enjoyable event; see report and photos on pages 20 & 21.
SATURDAY
Saying ‘wow’ in Creggs… Tonight, I found myself emulating
President Mary McAleese’s famous ‘wow’ – uttered some years ago when Queen Elizabeth addressed guests at Dublin Castle as Gaeilge. Rightly or wrongly, I was less than impressed by Mary’s ‘wow’ at the time – if nothing else, I respectfully suggest it lacked a certain gravitas. But I digress.
Tonight, all I could say (initially) was ‘wow’… on seeing the stunning new gym at Creggs Rugby Club. My good friend Padraic Deane, former President of the club (and an inspirational one at that), had separated me from a creamy pint of Guinness after the launch of the club’s history book, taking me on a quick tour of the fabulous new facility. It is an extraordinarily impressive gym, and a huge tribute to the foresight, energy and spirit of volunteerism of all involved in this project. It was well worthy of my instinctive ‘wow’.
The actual book launch, attended by hundreds of guests, was a great success. Held in the beautiful new community room, the launch was performed by former Irish international star Eric Elwood. Familiar faces from the past mingled with
today’s Creggs players.
There was a lovely celebratory atmosphere as a mammoth book – reflecting on the 50-year history of the club – was unveiled. The book is an amazing publication, the brilliant work of Pauline Scott (editor), supported by Sean Brandon and a committee led by Adrian Leddy. I highly recommend it. For more coverage of the launch, see page 47.
SATURDAY/SUNDAY
Local sport
Congratulations to Padraig Pearses and Elphin, both clubs having qualified for their respective provincial football finals.
It wasn’t to be for St Barry’s, with the Tarmonbarry-based club losing out in the Connacht JFC. But St Barry’s have had a memorable season, with a first county junior title win in 17 years. For Pearses and Elphin, the dream of provincial glory is alive and well.
MONDAY
Political musings
As we continue our election podcast series, and with this time of year being busy in the newspaper business, I haven’t been following the election campaign that closely (the odd glance at X/Twitter aside).
Willie O’Dea’s opportunist headline-seeking rant about Justice Minister Helen McEntee confirmed what I’ve been thinking of the bould Limerick man in recent years; that he’s merely a legend in his own timeline.
Earlier today, Seamus Duke and I agreed that the only way RTE could realistically accommodate ten party leaders in tonight’s TV debate was by having five on in the first half and the remaining five ‘after the ads’. But RTE thought otherwise: they put all ten on together, and just (mostly) ignored half of them! My riveting review of the show is on page 25.
Satara Boutique
ryone in the family enjoys a feelgood, traditional Christmas ritual and the Christmas Lights Committee invite everyone to come along and enjoy the experience. It is all about making memories. (You can listen to the switch-on live on https://www.rosfm.ie/live/).
This year, the Roscommon Lights Committee celebrate its 31st year erecting and maintaining the Christmas lights for the town. We are proud that our county town is renowned for an amazing festive display of Christmas lights that would not look out of place in any major city. This is only possible because of the dedicated volunteers who make it all happen. The joy and cheer the Christmas lights bring to us all, both adults and children, cannot be underestimated and it truly transforms our town for the festive season. We are delighted that yet again we have made huge strides in making our Christmas lights eco-friendly, using LED bulbs to reduce our carbon footprint.
Last year for the first time ever, we unveiled a Nativity Crib with lifesized figures which proved to be a hugely popular attraction and was enjoyed by all. This year it will be located in the pedestrianised area of the Square behind the Bank of Ireland for the whole festive season.
This is yet another strong and
positive message to send out about our town. We expect the festive display to draw shoppers in from a wide hinterland to enjoy the yuletide atmosphere. However, between upgrades to the lights, new features, and ongoing repairs, it still costs a lot to put the Christmas lights in place for the season.
The committee are asking as many ‘Rossies’ as possible to make a small contribution for the greater good of our town and county. It is easy to do for anyone, anywhere in the world, who wants to share a little goodwill this Christmas. Every donation, no matter how small, helps. Will you rise to the challenge and donate today on https://www.idonate.ie/event/ roscommonchristmaslightsfundraiser2024?
“This is a really rewarding committee to be involved with,” said Gerry Dervin, Chairperson of the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee, “We have a great bunch of people and their enthusiasm is infectious. We are always looking for new members and volunteers to get involved so please get in contact if you would like to help”.
*Wishing you all a happy and peaceful Christmas from the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee.
Dr Daniel features in Blindboy documentary
Roscommon native and University of Galway PHD graduate Dr Daniel Curley (historian and archaeologist) will feature in a new documentary by Blindboy Boatclub – ‘Blindboy: The Land of Slaves and Scholars’, which airs at 10.15 pm on Thursday, November 21st, via RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
Dr Curley, who hails from Taughmaconnell in south Roscommon, is a graduate of the University of Galway, with a BA in History, MA in Medieval Studies, PDip in Education and a PhD in Archaeology. He is an expert on the archaeology and heritage of his native county Roscommon.
The ancient site of Rathcroghan, Roscommon, which was once the royal site for Connacht and the west of Ireland, is one of the sites explored in the documentary, and Dr Daniel Curley explains its significance.
“It’s the ancient royal site for the west of Ireland”, he comments in the documentary. “This is not a place that held a major population. I like to refer to it as an empty capital, that would have boomed for particular points in the calendar year... They’re trading here, they’re exchanging gifts, but they’re also performing entertainments, feasting, marrying off branches of family, there’s a burials of dead… It’s
all agricultural, and you’re basing it on the seasonal changes –Imbolg, Bealtaine, Lúnasa, and then Samhain”.
Among many other questions raised on our ancient past in the documentary, Blindboy seeks to find out who these festivalgoers Daniel discusses were worshipping before Christ. Blindboy Boatclub, writer and podcaster, is a non-believer. He doesn’t believe in any god or religion. And yet, in this documentary he decides to explore the origins and evolution of early Irish Christianity, hermits, saints and monasteries, to try and find out who they were, what motivated them, and what they did.
Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon
‘Blindboy: The Land of Slaves and Scholars’, which airs at 10.15 pm on Thursday, November 21st, via RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
Over 300 non-shed Christmas Trees, Lights & Decorations in store from 1st December!
KERRANE TD
24/7 ambulance cover for West Roscommon at Loughglynn (an ambulance blackspot since 2014)
Funding to staff the Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) & Psychiatry of Later Life in Castlerea
Traffic lights at accident black-spot in Frenchpark (talked about for decades)
Works at Ballaghaderreen swimming pool
be of assistance to you please do not hesitate to
Roscommon stores honoured at Londis Excellence Awards 2024
Londis retailers from every corner of the country, including three from Roscommon, were honoured at the recent Londis Retailing Excellence Awards ceremony, which was held in Lyrath Hotel in Kilkenny, and hosted by BWG Foods, owners and operators of the Londis brand in Ireland.
This year’s Londis Retailing Excellence Awards, held in association with independent body Solution Management Associates (SMA), recognise those Londis stores who have excelled during the year across all areas of their store.
In winning these awards, the stores were independently examined across a range of criteria including the quality of their fresh food offering, product range, as well as the store’s commitment to upholding the highest of retailing standards, thereby providing an excellent customer experience to their local communities.
The Roscommon-based Londis retailers and stores honoured were: Jim Casey, Casey’s Londis Athlone Road, Roscommon; Neil Kennedy, Kennedy’s Londis Boyle; Annie Timothy, Timothy’s Londis Abbeytown.
Congratulating the winners, Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director, said: “The Londis Retailing Excellence Awards
have been running since 2015 and recognise those Londis retailers who, through their ongoing commitment to outstanding retail standards and
customer service, continue to set the benchmark for the Londis brand in their communities and, indeed, in the wider industry. I offer my congratulations to these
outstanding Londis retailers from Roscommon and their staff. Their efforts have been truly outstanding, and this recognition is very well deserved”.
Pictured at the Londis Retailing Excellence Awards 2024, which took place recently in the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Co Kilkenny, are (from left): Jim and Maria Casey, Casey’s Londis Roscommon; Neil Kennedy, Kennedy’s Londis Boyle; and Tommy Devlin, Londis RDM.
Roscommon links with new book on Dún Laoghaire
‘Ghosts of Old Dún Laoghaire’ is the title of a new book, recently published by Roscommon-born Breasal Ó Caollaí.
The book gives an account of people who have lived in the port town from King Laoghaire (in whose honour the town is named) to Ronnie Drew (a native of the town).
Patrick Moran, the North Roscommon man who was executed in 1920 by the British authorities, for
a crime he did not commit, gets pride of place in the new book. The leading humanitarian Roger Casement, who was executed for his involvement in attempting to land guns for the 1916 Rising, also features. The new book is selling for €20 per copy and has 160 pages. Copies are now available and can be ordered via email (eblanaclub@gmail.com) or phone (086-074540), or bought directly from all good newsagents.
Cheering on Pearses…
NOVEMBER
out
Supporting Padraig Pearses in their win over Mohill last weekend were Paul and Anne Marie Costello. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Supporting Padraig Pearses in their win over Mohill last weekend were Allana and Killian Grehan. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Supporting Padraig Pearses in their win over Mohill last weekend were Sean Brennan, Evan Flynn, Conor Higgins and Liam Keyes. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Supporting Padraig Pearses in their win over Mohill last weekend were members of the Galvin and Cleary families. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Glinsk Christmas Fair and Santa experience
This year, Glinsk Community Development are holding their first ever Christmas Fair and Santa experience! This event has something to offer everyone! The fair will take place in Glinsk Community Centre, from 10 am until 3 pm,
on Sunday, December 8th There will be free entry to the stalls. The organisers are looking forward to having some local crafters present on the day to showcase their talent and produce! Tea, coffee and mulled wine will also be provided for attendees.
Family entry to the Christmas grotto and to meet Santa Claus will cost €10.
For more information and to book your visit with Santa, visit form.jotform. com/241373778149366.
For queries about the overall event, email glinskcommunityevents@gmail.com.
Visit Santa
Memorial Mass at Roscommon Hospital
Roscommon University Hospital will hold a Memorial Mass at 7.30 pm on Thursday, November 21st (this evening), in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon, in memory of those who died in the hospital between 2020 and 2022.
The Mass will also remember those people who were brought to Roscommon University Hospital after they had passed away in the community.
The Mass aims to provide a space to support families in
the grief they are experiencing, in a respectful and empathetic way. Marie Doorly (interim hospital manager) said, “The Mass is a very special event for our hospital staff, as we come together to remember and honour those who died between 2020 and 2022.
“Due to the Covid pandemic, we were unable to hold a Memorial Mass. At a later date, a Memorial Mass will be held to commemorate those who died in 2023”.
Proceeds in aid of St. Vincent de Paul
Pictured supporting Elphin in the AIB Connacht Club IFC semi- nal were Senan and Linda O’Connor. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
DÁIL GENERAL ELECTION
29TH NOVEMBER, 2024
INACCESSIBLE POLLING STATIONS
TAKE NOTICE:- That the following Polling Stations in the Constituency of Roscommon- Galway are wheelchair inaccessible:-
Clooncagh National School
Kingsland National School
Lecarrow Community National School
Any Person Registered to vote at these Polling Stations may apply in writing to me at roscommon@irishro.com or Returning O cer, PRA Building, Golf Links Road, Roscommon. on or before Monday 25th November, 2024 to be allocated an alternative Polling Station in which to vote.
AnnMarie Courell Returning O cer
DÁIL GENERAL ELECTION
29TH NOVEMBER,
2024 CHANGE OF POLLING STATION
Take Notice the following Polling Stations in the Constituency of Roscommon Galway has changed location and will now be situated at the following:
Elphin Part 1 – M9 Previously Elphin Convent No. 1, will now be located in Elphin Community Centre No. 1
Elphin Part 2 – N1 Previously Elphin Convent No. 2, will now be located in Elphin Community Centre No. 2
AnnMarie Courell Returning O cer
If
Final preparations for countdown to Four Roads Monster Auction!
There is a hive of activity going on in Four Roads this week, as preparations continue ahead of the Monster Auction taking place this weekend in Tisrara Community Centre (F42FT91).
The organising committee has received a massive response to their appeal for items to be auctioned on this Sunday afternoon. There is a large variety of saleable items being auctioned under auctioneer Ivan Connaughton’s hammer. There promises to be major
newsbriefs
Special Family Tree Healing Mass
bargaining sessions for all those looking for keenly-priced commodities!
No second-hand items should be offered, as everything is brand new or fresh from the farmer’s field. If you are not interested in farming products or livestock, then you can go to the hospitality, sporting or Christmas section, which offers lots more. You can get Smyths Toys vouchers, a pass to Dublin Zoo, hampers, household goods, gravel for your path-
A Special Family Tree Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy on Friday, 22nd of November, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome. Eircode is N37W704. Contact 086 4054489 for more information.
Public meeting on Boyle
cemeteries
A public meeting will be held at 8.15 pm on Thursday, November 28th, in St Joseph’s resource centre in Boyle, to discuss the sorry state of disrepair in both local cemeteries. A committee will be formed from those present, who will work with the local authority and other bodies to get the vital work needed carried out – but to do this, the community needs to come together.
Roscommon Parish Youth Mass
Roscommon parish’s Youth Mass takes place at 7 pm this Saturday, November 23rd, in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. This Mass has been especially designed for young people, by young people, and everyone is invited to attend. The theme for the Mass is ‘Trust in God’.
RSPCA Church Gate Collection
The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be holding a Church Gate Collection at St Joseph’s Church in Boyle on Saturday, November 30th, and on Sunday, December 1st. This collection is a great opportunity to raise much-needed funds for animal welfare work and also to raise awareness of the RSPCA’s mission and vision. Your support would be greatly appreciated, with all donations going directly towards animal welfare in the county. If you would like to learn more about the RSPCA, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594.
Strokestown Social Services Christmas Party
The Strokestown Social Services Christmas Party will be held in the Silver Eel on Sunday, the 8th of December. Mass will take place at 4 pm, followed by Dinner, with music by Gerry Keenan. All are welcome to attend.
If interested, please contact Anne on 086 0596004 or Maureen on 086 0824604.
ways, or whatever else you may need. Every age, need, and taste is being catered for. It is an event not to be missed and you will find it very suitable for stocking up for Christmas!
There has been a huge response from locals and business outlets to our appeal, and so many have generously contributed to this fundraising event, for which we are truly grateful.
Tisrara Community Centre will be open on Friday and Saturday
from 7 pm onwards to receive items that you may wish to donate. No second-hand items should be presented or will be accepted. The proceeds from the fundraising event are in aid of the ongoing development of Tisrara Community Park.
You can be assured of plenty of bargains but come early in case you might be disappointed! The auction will get underway at 2.30 pm sharp and doors will be open well in advance of the event.
‘Our
parking is very limited’ – Roscommon Hospital addresses public concerns
< EMMETT CORCORAN
Cllr Anthony Waldron (Independent) has raised the pressing issue of inadequate parking at Roscommon University Hospital (RUH). Cllr Waldron told the Roscommon People that the HSE’s Galway Estates team advised him to raise the matter with the hospital locally, and he says he has since been pursuing the matter on behalf of patients, relatives, and staff.
In an email to Cllr Waldron, RUH confirmed the challenges posed by the hospital’s limited parking infrastructure, which has failed to keep pace with the steady growth of services and activity on-site.
“Our parking is very limited, and I fully acknowledge the difficulties this causes for our patients, relatives, and staff,” RUH stated. “While it is positive that our services have grown, unfortunately, infrastructure, including car
parking, has not developed in tandem”.
To mitigate the immediate challenges, the hospital encourages the use of a setdown area outside the Urgent Care Centre for patients being dropped off. For those being collected, drivers are advised to bring their vehicles closer to the hospital to minimise walking distances. RUH added
that a small number of Older Persons and Disabled Parking spaces would be reinstated at the hospital entrance in the coming weeks, following the completion of a CT project.
In their correspondence with Cllr Waldron, RUH explained that additional parking is being prioritised as part of a new Spatial Plan, currently under development with HSE Estates. This plan aims to guide future infrastructure and service improvements.
There was a meeting held last year between Roscommon County Council and the hospital, where solutions such as improved transport links between the hospital, town centre, and public transport hubs were discussed.
Cllr Waldron reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the issue, stating that parking is a key concern for the community and must be prioritised in future developments.
Cllr Anthony Waldron (Independent)
Roscommon University Hospital (RUH).
FRANK BRANDON
FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...
Rest in peace, Jon… an ‘unbelievable’ legend
Jon Kenny of D’Unbelievables was a legend. Jon and his long-time comedy partner Pat Shortt brought us a type of comedy that we had never seen before, using members of their audience as fall guys for some of the funniest routines that I have ever seen. To this day, any time I watch one of their videos I still fall around with laughter.
Sadly, Kenny passed away at the weekend, and the world will be a poorer place without him.
In recent times, I used to bump in to him around the hospital in Galway, where both himself and Carol were getting treatment. He was always pleasant and friendly to talk to. He may not have been active as a member of D’Unbelievables for a good few years, but their legacy as possibly the funniest Irish comedy act of all time is secure; people will laugh at their antics for many a year to come. May he rest in peace.
Power cuts and power punches
Our columnist Frank on Katie Taylor’s latest thrilling fight; the legacy the late entertainer Jon Kenny leaves behind; the recent interprovincial rugby match held in Creggs… and some important local events
It’s Friday night as I write, and not being a fan of Brendan O’Carroll, I checked out early from the Late Late Show and headed off to bed.
I decided not to set my clock, agreeing with myself that if I did wake up in time, I would go downstairs and watch the Katie Taylor fight on Netflix. I know most people nowadays have TVs in their bedrooms, but that luxury has eluded me so far.
Anyway, at 3.20 am I woke up, headed to the sitting room, and sat back to watch the action. However –just as the fighters started to make their way to the ring – lo and behold, the electricity went!
My son Paul had the fight on his phone – which was just as well, because even after the ESB came back, Netflix wasn’t behaving itself anyway. The programme kept freezing and blurring over, and the truth is it was very unsatisfactory.
But we did get to see all ten unbelievable rounds of
their fight, which must surely be in the running for fight of the year once again (their first battle won it in 2022), and I can honestly say the result could have gone either way. At home, Paul called it for Katie, while I felt Serrano had shaded it.
Anyway, in the end Katie got a unanimous verdict, and almost immediately was accused of deliberate head-butting and being a dirty fighter by a hugely ungracious and sore losing camp. I loved her retort when asked about the accusations: “I really don’t care! I am standing here as a victor again! I fought her twice, and I beat her twice!”
The other thing that stood out even more than the sour grapes of Serrano’s management (she herself had since rowed back on some of the comments) was the outrageous bias shown by the Netflix commentary team against Taylor; they were constantly berating her for all kinds of skullduggery and underhanded tactics. I have always thought boxing was, and is, a tough physical sport – Katie herself said as much in her post-fight interview. As for me, I have long since declared the Bray woman to be one of the greatest Irish people of all time, and even if she interrupted my Friday night beauty sleep, it was more than worth it!
All I can say is whatever she does from here on in, Katie Taylor is a living legend and a true sporting hero. What a woman!
Sporting stars descend on Creggs
It’s about midday on Saturday as I write, and I find myself heading back to Creggs after attending a little family get-together in Castlebar celebrating the first birthday of my granddaughter Hayley.
The reason I am going back is because I am due to be on stewarding duty at a rugby match – the likes of which we once would’ve never thought we’d see in Creggs.
The game is an interprovincial between the Leinster and Connacht A teams, and we were all hugely excited when we saw the Leinster line-up and discovered that four full Irish internationals were included: the two Byrnes, Ross and Harry, as well as Max Deegan and Will Connors! They have
250 not out for Denis
On the subject of professional rugby and Connacht: our own protege Denis Buckley recently reached an amazing personal milestone when he made his 250th appearance for the province. To mark the occasion, Creggs RFC made a presentation to him at a ‘do’ in the clubhouse on Saturday night. For a prop forward who operates in the hardest part of the team, it’s an incredible achievement. Heartiest congratulations to him!
I’ve said it before, but it’s a mystery to me (and to a lot of others) how he never got an Irish cap – especially when certain inferior players did. I don’t suppose he’ll get one now, but he’s definitely been hard done by by several different Irish coaches.
all played for Ireland in the recent past, and having played in stadiums like Stade de France and the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, we wondered what they would have been thinking when their team bus turned up the Main Street of the little village and they saw Creggs in its entirety.
Anyway, the game took place and the physicality of the exchanges had to be seen to be believed. Both teams went at it hammer and tongs, and even though Connacht eventually lost, they played really well and gave the hugely talented Leinster team a proper test.
It’s funny how TV can give a distorted view of players, because I would have thought that the two
Byrnes and Connors were slight enough. However, seeing them up close revealed a very different picture; all three were physically extremely imposing. In fact, every single player on view was an impressive specimen, and very different from the type of players that were out there in our time. I suppose these lads, being professionals, actually do a lot of training, and a lot of gym work definitely pays dividends. By all accounts, the two teams were highly complimentary about the pitch and the facilities, and it was great to see Leo Cullen, Jacques Nienabar, and Pete Wilkins all in attendance in our little village.
Mark your calendars! Launch of ‘Ireland’s unsung heroes’
Creggs should surely be the cultural capital of the west, because after the hugely successful launch of the rugby club’s 50th anniversary book on Saturday night (my report on it will be in next week’s issue), Larry Kilcommons tells me that this Friday night, the Kilbegnet Historical Society are launching their 2025 calendar, ‘Ireland’s unsung heroes’, in the school hall in Creggs at 8 pm.
Dr Christy Cunniffe is doing the honours, and having got an advance copy of the calendar, I can tell you it’s a really fascinating read. There are two versions; the smaller one with an envelope is only €5, while the bigger one is €10. You can get them
in the Heritage Centre in Creggs.
I freely admit that I am not the greatest history student, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading about (as the title says) our unsung heroes. Larry Kilcommons and David Curran put the whole thing together, and all I can say is well done – it’s a smashing effort.
Throw in the recent launch of the book about Kilbegnet House, which was attended by more than 200 people, and you can see why we must be the cultural capital of the west!
Anyway, don’t forget: it’s on Friday night at 8 pm in the school hall! Hopefully I’ll see you there!
Finally for this week:
Julie Healy has told me about a great night of music and dance she has put together in memory of James Shevlin, which will take place in Dowd’s in Glinsk this Friday night, November 22nd. James was a well respected local teacher and a top class musician and songwriter, who passed away suddenly in June of 2023. To honour his memory, Julie has organised a great line-up of musicians, including the living legend that is Johnny Carroll, the Pat O’Driscoll band, rising country star Effie O’Neill, Pat Mulchrone, Mick Mulhern, and Andrew McMurdie –and all proceeds are going to charity.
Admission is only €20 and the show will start at 9 pm. Friday night promises to be a busy one locally, but hopefully I’ll see you there as well!
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Anthony and Angela Cahill and Kathleen and William Flynn. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice
Cllr. Michael Connolly
Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice
Roscommon LEA
Cllr. Marty McDermott
Roscommon LEA
Cllr. Larry Brennan Roscommon LEA
Cllr. Sean Moylan Boyle LEA
Cllr. Michael Connolly Ballinasloe LEA
Cllr. John Keogh Athlone LEA
Are you looking for a new career with exciting opportunities, working with a great organisation?
Tailte Éireann are recruiting Clerical Officers for Roscommon. Find out more information on our website: www.tailte.ie/en/careers/
GAA President to unveil ‘Jimmy Murray statue’ during celebratory weekend
< PAUL HEALY
The Jimmy Murray statue unveiling will take place in Knockcroghery on Sunday, December 1st next, as part of a special weekend of celebrations.
The limestone statue of the GAA great will be formally unveiled by the President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns. Up to 20 members of the famous Artane Band will take part in the ceremony, accompanied by local children decked in the colours of Roscommon’s 32 GAA clubs.
Details of the upcoming festivities were announced at a media launch held in Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery last Friday night. The bar (and adjoining house) is the homestead of the Murray family, with the premises now run by John (Jimmy’s son) and his wife Eithne. Jimmy Murray was a renowned club and county footballer (also an accomplished hurler) who entered GAA folklore in his lifetime having captained Roscommon to its only senior All-Ireland football title wins, in 1943 and ’44. Much-decorated both during and after his career for his playing feats, he was also a very popular community figure within his beloved Knockcroghery and Roscommon. Jimmy Murray died in 2007.
The launch of the Jimmy Murray statue project took place in April 2022, and last Friday night’s press event was held to update on the exciting unveiling weekend ahead.
The four-tonne statue, carved from limestone generously donated by the quarry in Lecarrow, has been sculpted by local artist Mark Feeley.
The upcoming celebratory weekend will commence on Saturday, November 30th with a Historical Talk in Culleen Hall (8 pm), followed by a singing session in Murray’s. There will be further events over the course of the two days, including Mass for deceased members of the 1943 and 1944 Roscommon playing panels, with the statue to be unveiled at the village green by the GAA President on the Sunday afternoon.
Friday night’s launch was told that the names of all players and management involved in Roscommon’s historic All-Ireland wins in 1943 and ’44 will be inscribed on the monument.
Master of Ceremonies Matt Rogers said that this is a proud and poignant moment for the Murray family. Stating that the late Jimmy Murray had kicked
his first ball on the village green, Mr Rogers noted how apt it is that the statue will be erected there.
Thomas Murray, chairperson of the Jimmy Murray Statue Memorial Committee, outlined the history of the project, paying tribute to all who have helped in any way. Complimenting Mark Feeley on the finished product (yet to be displayed to the public), Mr Murray said the sculptor has been “fantastic”, noting his “enthusiasm” and “attention to detail”.
Mr Murray also thanked the many people who have contributed to the fund. He also thanked Roscommon County Council, public representatives and the Church of Ireland (trustees of the Green in Knockcroghery) for their support.
Well-known GAA historian Tony Conboy described Jimmy Murray as the “heartbeat of Roscommon football” and said it had been a team “with no weaknesses… heroes all”.
Describing Jimmy Murray as a great ambassador for Roscommon, Tony
complimented the committee on its great initiative. He also regaled the audience with some amusing tales about characters from the great Roscommon team of the 1940s, including the late John Joe Nerney. David O’Connor of Roscommon County Board also congratulated the organising committee. He advised that further contributions to the fund can still be made via the IDonate page. Hailing the legacy of Jimmy Murray, Mr O’Connor said it was also very fitting that the legendary captain’s playing colleagues (and management) will be acknowledged on the statue.
Sculptor Mark Feeley spoke passionately of how honoured he was to have been asked to create the statue. He had loved the experience and was delighted with the outcome and was very much looking forward to seeing what the public think of the statue when it is unveiled.
Friday night’s formalities ended with a rousing version of ‘An
Ode to Jimmy Murray’, sang by Johnny Johnson, who penned the tribute song.
Matt Rogers and Mary Murray pictured in Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery last Friday night. Photos courtesy of Will Keane.
Pictured in Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery last Friday night. Photos courtesy of Will Keane.
Attendees pictured in Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery last
the 1st
December for the o cial unveiling of a statue in honour of the late Roscommon GAA legend Jimmy Murray. Photos courtesy of Will Keane
Attendees pictured in Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery last Friday night where a press launch was held to con rm details of the weekend of activities taking place over Saturday, the 30th of November and Sunday, the 1st of December for the o cial unveiling of a statue in honour of the late Roscommon GAA legend Jimmy Murray. Photos courtesy of Will Keane
PPN to host major community networking event
Roscommon Public Participation Network (PPN) will be hosting their biannual plenary and Community Networking event on Wednesday November 27th from 7pm to 9pm in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town.
Registration in advance of the event is essential via Eventbrite (https://tinyurl. com/4672ca8m ); via email on info@roscommonppn.ie or by calling the PPN Team on 086-0478616.
The event’s keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Maura Farrell, University of Galway. Ms. Farrell is a lecturer with expertise in Rural Development, Agriculture and Geography, focusing on social, cultural and economic change for rural communities.
There will also be discussions on new funding opportunities for communities and the ratification of PPN representatives to Roscommon County Council Strategic Policy Committees.
The PPN will also launch their new website on the night which is a new coun-
ty-wide information and resource portal to strengthen community engagement and participation at a local level.
The theme of this year’s event is ‘Collaboration for Resilient Communities’ which has the aim of providing community groups with an opportunity to learn about the latest supports available, strengthen their capacities and empower communities to think more strategically.
Attendees will also learn about various new funding opportunities and hear the latest activity updates from the PPN team whom support an array of community development measures across the county.
Notable contributions will include a presentation from Roscommon
County Council on the latest community funding available in addition to information from Roscommon LEADER Partnership and Roscommon Sports Partnership. Attendees will also have an opportunity to have their say on the future direction of the PPN by inputting to a new countywide strategic plan for the network.
The event will conclude with an informative networking showcase where attendees will receive an array of information from local supports and agencies including Community Finance Providers.
The event is a great platform in bringing community groups together to network, learn and share information. Those in attendance will also be entered into a draw to win a €500 training bursary for their group/club/organisation –terms and conditions will apply. Refreshments will be served and all potential new network members are encouraged to attend this free event.
Dr Larragy to deliver talk on pollinators in Castlerea
This Friday, Dr Sarah Larragy from Trinity College Dublin will be giving a talk in Castlerea on the importance of bees and other pollinators, and the central role they play in our natural environment. This event was organised by Cllr Anthony Waldron. Despite their pivotal role in the environment, many of our bees and other wild pollinators are showing a worrying decline in numbers and diversity. Dr Larragy’s talk will cover the main causes of this decline and provide information on what simple actions can be taken to support pol-
linators in our gardens and communities. For her doctoral thesis, Dr Larragy studied differences between wild Irish Buff-tailed bumblebees and other populations, including British and commercially produced varieties. Currently, she is working in TCD on the Irish leg of an EU-wide project called RestPoll – a project which hopes to provide society with the tools and knowledge needed to restore habitats and pollinators and reverse their decline.
Dr Larragy has a deep family con-
nection with County Roscommon and has many happy memories of spending time here as a child; her mother Maura Boyle was born and raised in Ballintubber, and her grandparents hail from Castlerea and Cloonfad. Her parents now live in Cloonchambers, Castlerea. This talk is open to everybody who is interested in environmental issues, farming, gardening, or who just love nature. The event will take place at 6 pm this Friday, November 22nd, at The Hub in Castlerea.
*One PPN Member in attendance will also win a €500 training bursary for their group Scan for more information on this exciting event and how to register your attendance*
Vita House extends thanks to Fitzpatrick family and friends
Vita House would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the Fitzpatrick family and friends for their generous donation, made in memory of Jacinta Fitzpatrick.
Their recent racethemed event, honouring Jacinta’s love for the Galway Races, raised over €11,000, which was shared between Roscommon Cancer Support and the Hospice. While their financial contribution is undoubtedly significant, Vita House expressed that they are even more honoured to have the family recognise the vital role of their service for those affected by cancer, and their loved ones. This acknowledgment holds tremendous value.
Kevin Fitzpatrick and his children Eabha and Shane recently donated €5,800 to Roscommon Cancer Support in honour of Kevin’s wife and Eabha and Shane’s mother, Jacinta Fitzgerald, who sadly passed away from cancer in July 2023.
Vita House would like to assure the family and their friends that they will honour Jacinta’s memory by making thoughtful use of the donation made in her name, as they continue in their mission to support those in need.
newsbriefs
Candlelit Rosary and prayers
A candlelit Rosary and prayers will be held in Kilcolumb Cemetery at 6 pm on Friday, November 22nd. This is the final night this event is being held in Kilcolumb. Thank you to everyone who made these events possible, especially Anne for leading in the prayers. Next week’s gathering will take place in Ballinakill at 6 pm on the 29th of November, and some light refreshments will be served afterwards in Dowd’s Lounge to mark the occasion. Everyone is welcome to attend.
CBS Roscommon Class of 1974 50th anniversary reunion
The Leaving Cert Class of 1974 from CBS Roscommon are organising a 50-year reunion on Saturday, the 7th of December. The lunch and celebration will take place at Gleeson’s Townhouse and Restaurant in Roscommon at 1 pm. Anyone interested in attending can call Eamonn Gleeson on 087 261 5956 or Hugh Baxter on 087 2222543 for further details.
Western Alzheimer’s Coffee Morning
The Western Alzheimer’s Voluntary Committee reminds everybody that their annual coffee morning at Roscommon Golf Club will be held on Friday, the 29th of November 2024 and encourages as many as possible to attend and support.
The coffee morning kicks off at 10 am and continues until 1 pm and is a wonderful opportunity to support a very worthy cause and to meet friends and neighbours again in advance of the Christmas season.
This year we are delighted to announce that our recently elected MEP Ciaran Mullooly will launch the annual St Stephen’s Day Charity Walk. Looking forward to seeing everybody there!
newsbriefs
Evening of Christmas festivities in Ballintubber
Ballintubber Tidy Towns will host an evening of Christmas festivities from 5 pm on Sunday, December 1st, in the church car park.
The evening will involve an official turning-on of the Christmas lights, stalls, a food van, carol singing, a blessing of the crib, and of course, Santa will arrive in style! Tea, coffee and festive bites will also be served. Don’t miss out!
Bridge club results
The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows:
Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Kitty Dowd and Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; 2nd: Kitty Blighe and Mary McDermott; Gross: Joan Donnellan and June Halliday. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Phil and Seamus Cooney; 2nd: Olive Fahy and Judy Adamson; Gross: June Halliday and Tommie Murphy.
Ballymurray Bridge Club – (North/South) 1st: Evelyn Curley and Judy Adamson; 2nd: Gertie Spillane and Josephine Devaney; Gross: Valere and Pat Finneran. (East/West) 1st: Kevin Coyle and Michael Dolan; 2nd: George Bannon and John O’Gara; Gross: Martina Hanley and Helen Earley. Kilbride Bridge Club – for the 6th of November (North/ South) 1st: Jane Hunt and Gertie McDermott; 2nd: Bernie Fallon and Phil Murray-O’Brien; (East/West) 1st: Bridie and Tom Moran; 2nd: Brid Gillooly and Frances Keane. For the 13th of November (North/South) 1st: Martina Fallon and Margaret Scott; 2nd: Kitty Burke and Myra Farrell; (East/ West) 1st: Brid Gillooly and Pauline Leonard; 2nd: Gertie McDermott and Mary Kelly.
Roscommon Show AGM
The Roscommon Agricultural Show AGM will take place on Wednesday, November 27th, at 9 pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. Everyone is welcome to attend.
• The People • The Personalities • The Power • The Promises
Tight battle on cards in Roscommon-Galway
All to play for with a week to go
ELECTION OPINION
Seamus Duke
At the time of writing, the general consensus is that this General Election campaign has been fairly dull and run of the mill, with very little in the way of controversy or drama. While that may well be true, the electorate in this constituency are always capable of throwing up an unexpected result – and that could happen this time around too. The issues here are more or less the same as those we hear about in the rest of the country. They include housing, immigration, farming, crime and the health service.
I have to say that I am surprised that the fact that so many of our talented young people have left the country over the past four or five years has not been an issue. I have heard very little about it during the campaign so far. Last week it was revealed that over 4,600 qualified teachers have left our shores in the past three years. Given that we have a chronic teacher shortage here, that’s an astonishing figure. But I digress. Locally, we have had many different constituencies over the years. I recall Roscommon-Leitrim, Roscommon-Longford, Roscommon on its own, Roscommon-East Galway, and now RoscommonGalway. This forthcoming General Election will be the ninth I have covered. Along the way, there have always been interesting twists and turns. In this neck of the woods we like to throw an odd spanner in the works.
Athleague, Co Roscommon
Dear Editor,
This time around? There are eleven candidates scheduled to be on the ballot paper, and while almost all parties are represented, there are a few obvious leading contenders. At this juncture, the three available seats in Roscommon-Galway look certain to be decided between (in alphabetical order!) Martin Daly, Aisling Dolan, Michael Fitzmaurice, Claire Kerrane and Eugene Murphy.
Despite his ‘losing’ a couple of thousand potential voters in his home patch of East Galway – this following a re-drafting of constituency boundaries – I am expecting Michael Fitzmaurice to win a seat without too much bother. He polled 13,077 in 2020, and with the quota this time around expected to be somewhere in the region of 10,000, Fitzmaurice looks ‘nailed on’. He maintains a very high profile with regular appearances on TV and radio.
There are predictions that as many as 25 or even 30 independents will be elected this time around. If that is the case then they will have a big say in the formation of the next Government and it will be interesting to see what Michael Fitzmaurice and his Independent Ireland colleagues do in that scenario.
The next major consideration is where the 8,422 first preference votes that Denis Naughten (not running this time) received in 2020 go on this occasion. One would presume that quite an
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
The far right has wrapped the tricolour around itself and declared that “Ireland is full”. The three major Irish political parties are scrambling in their varied nuanced ways to counteract this threat, but hardening their stances on immigration nonetheless.
This begs the question: what happens if US President-elect Donald J Trump imple-
A scene from an election count at the Dr Hyde Centre in Roscommon Town. amount of those would be ‘Fine Gael’ leaning and will therefore favour Aisling Dolan and Dympna Daly-Finn. However, many people I am talking to say that Eugene Murphy could pick up a lot of those votes.
Claire Kerrane has had an impressive first term in Dáil Eireann. Looking back on the 2020 election results it’s clear (going by tallies) that she picked up votes in almost every box in the constituency. If she can repeat that feat she will have gone a long way towards returning to Leinster House.
The situation with regard to Fianna Fáil and the fall-out from the Eugene Murphy episode is
ments his stated policy of deporting large numbers of undocumented immigrants from the USA, Irish included? Will Ireland still be ‘full’ when they return home? Or will (people of their) skin colour miraculously find housing, GP appointments, schools, transport infrastructure – the services which the hard and soft anti-immigrant voices now tell us are lacking nationwide for current immigrants? Yours sincerely, Jim Waldron
very interesting indeed. Martin Daly is a superb candidate and would make a very capable TD. His huge army of canvassers have been working very hard over the past few weeks.
However, there is a sense of injustice in the constituency with regard to how Eugene Murphy was treated by Fianna Fáil, which could lead to a big sympathy vote for him. There is a certain amount of disaffection with Fianna Fáil now, particularly in the North Roscommon area. The big question is: Can Murphy command the votes total needed to be in contention?
Fine Gael are running two strong candidates in Aisling
Dolan and Dympna Daly-Finn. While Senator Dolan got a very respectable 5,466 first preference vote in 2020, it will take a massive effort on her part to almost double that number and make it to the Dáil. It may well be that there isn’t a Fine Gael seat in the constituency once again. The other candidates are: Vincent Beirne (Independent), Andrew Mannion (People Before Profit), Martina O’Connor (Green Party), Cormac Ó Corcoráin (Aontú), and Alan Sweeney (The Irish People). They will all be hoping to attract a good return but it would be a major shock if any of them were to feature in the final shake-up.
So at this stage, with over a week still to go, what is the likely outcome? I’m taking Michael Fitzmaurice to retain his seat, with Claire Kerrane in next –and I’m giving Martin Daly the nod to edge out Eugene Murphy and Aisling Dolan. Could there be a shock? I am certainly not ruling out Eugene Murphy or Aisling Dolan, but at this stage I will stick with Fitzmaurice, Kerrane and Daly. There is still time for a few twists and turns before all will be revealed at the Dr Hyde Centre on Saturday and Sunday of next week. As we know from history, it’s seldom straightforward in this constituency.
for
Eugene
committing
should have an
“The
while
Independent General Election candidate
Roscommon-Galway,
Murphy, has said that those caught
crimes
wearing balaclavas
additional two years added to their sentence.
audacity of these criminals has got out of control. There are criminals running amok and using
balaclavas, obviously to hide their identities but also to intimidate. People are living in fear in rural Ireland and the situation is worse now with the dark evenings. The message has to be put out there that this will not be tolerated and that we will meet their intimidatory tactics head on,” said Murphy.
• The People • The Personalities • The Power • The Promises
To
view our Podcast
Interviews with local
Squabbles and snipes on ‘pathway’ to power
RTE DEBATE
PAUL HEALY
It’s official then… we’ve borrowed yet another word from our American friends.
As far as I’ve been aware, in Ireland the word ‘pathway’ has always been used to describe a… pathway, i.e. a physical route of some sort. But now, presumably thanks to Katie Hannon watching too much CNN recently, it will forever more be used in the context of Irish political parties seeking/reaching a majority in Dáil Éireann.
We didn’t need this to happen… but it did. Early into Monday night’s Leaders’ Debate on Upfront with Katie Hannon (RTE One), the host asked Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald if she had a ‘pathway to power’.
Please don’t, I urged Katie, but it was too late. She even repeated the phrase. “Mary Lou, have you a pathway to power?” Nobody blinked, the phrase allowed to enter our political lexicon unchallenged. Trust me, there will be no turning back.
There were already eleven people on the podium – ten party leaders and Katie – but I expected John King (of CNN fame) to scurry on to the set with an elaborate graphic showing Mary Lou’s potential pathway, courtesy of a few swings in Dublin or elsewhere.
There appeared to be little attempt by RTE/Hannon to ensure equity on speaking time, with the leaders of Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin – as it happens, the three people vying to be our next Taoiseach –completely dominating the opening exchanges. Social Democrats Deputy Leader Cian O’Callaghan (standing in for Holly Cairns), Right to Change leader Joan Collins, and Independent Ireland’s Michael Collins could have had a game of 25 in the corner during the first half hour, such
was the extent to which they were ignored.
Instead, all the ‘action’ was at the other end, where Micheál Martin and Simon Harris found themselves lined up together. It created a clear visual image of FF & FG versus the rest – the establishment versus those who are supposedly out to end ‘100 years’ of dominance by the big two. Whether that look suited Martin and Harris or not is debatable.
After opening skirmishes saw the leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Féin’s squabbling, Aontú’s Peader Tobin went straight into ‘stir it up’ mode, raising eyebrows as he went on the attack. Accusing the ‘big three’ of not giving straight answers, he told a startled Taoiseach that if he – Simon Harris – was working in the private sector, he’d have been fired by now. Tobin was a contender for performer of the night.
When Richard Boyd Barrett – arms folded in bemusement during the opening exchanges – was finally asked to contribute, he was typically forceful and articulate.
All verbal arrows seemed to be aimed at Harris and Martin, the duo concentrating their attacks on she who would dare covet the top job: Mary Lou.
When the Sinn Féin leader
predictably made an impassioned call for an end to ‘100 years’ of FF/ FG rule – at least one of those parties always having been in power – both Harris and Martin took grave exception. It’s the people who put us there, an affronted (and decidedly grumpy) Harris noted, while Martin went on a ferocious attack, accusing Sinn Féin of having “opposed the State” and “murdered Gardaí and soldiers”.
For his part, Harris pounced when accused by McDonald of showing “faux concern” for children. Rather than addressing her specific point, he said: “Wow. How dare you… how dare you accuse anyone of faux concern for children… who do think you are… that you have a monopoly on compassion?” The Sinn Féin leader looked momentarily stunned. Later, the Taoiseach had a bad wobble when he dithered over accepting responsibility for being the person in charge (of health) when the National Children’s Hospital was first signed off on. It was an awkward moment for Harris, who was more than a little tetchy throughout the debate.
I’m not sure if there was any clear winner. Watching on RTE Plus 1, I was nodding off – on my own ‘pathway to sleep’ – before the end.
• The People • The Personalities • The Power • The Promises
On a Claire day: Kerrane on policy, and people
Emmett Corcoran
There’s something striking about Claire Kerrane when you sit across from her. For someone heading into the frenzy of a last-minute canvass alongside her party leader, she exuded a calm, focused energy that was both surprising and engaging. Despite knowing I was delaying her, she gave me her full attention throughout our podcast interview. Claire wasn’t just in the room – she was fully present, speaking with an ease and warmth that drew me in from the start.
This was no ‘put on’ performance, though. Claire’s sincerity came through in small ways; the way she listened to a question, the flashes of humour in her responses, and her ability to connect the abstract with the real. It’s rare for politicians, especially during election season, to strike this balance so naturally.
As we spoke, I found myself reflecting on how Claire’s politi-
cal journey has shaped this sense of composure. Joining Sinn Féin at just 18, she has spent almost half her life working with the party. By 24, she was contesting her first General Election, an ambitious step that ultimately fell short. But it didn’t knock her back. Instead, it seemed to fuel her. Four years later, she secured a seat in the Dáil, and at 32 she’s matured into one of Sinn Féin’s strongest voices.
Listening to Claire, it’s clear she’s been shaped by experience but hasn’t lost the optimism that drew her to politics in the first place. From her years developing policy for Sinn Féin to her first-hand experience as a parliamentary assistant, she has built a practical understanding of what it takes to master the ‘dark art of politics’.
When pushed on policy, Claire relied heavily on Sinn Féin’s centralised approach to decisionmaking, presenting it as the
party’s key to delivering results. One example she gave was in the area of housing policy. She explained that by standardising rules for one-off rural housing across the country, instead of letting each county operate as a “law unto itself,” housing projects could actually get built.
This emphasis on centralisation seems to underpin much of Sinn Féin’s approach, and while it might not satisfy everyone, Claire’s argument was both pragmatic and persuasive. In her view, the focus should be on creating systems that work, rather than allowing inconsistencies to slow progress.
One of the most memorable parts of our conversation was Claire’s views on a 32-county Ireland. What stood out wasn’t just the policy itself, but the way she framed it. Claire avoided the romanticised language of the past, instead painting a vision of what she called a “New Ireland” – an inclusive, forward-looking republic, wholly integrated within Europe, with shared laws and a mixed cultural identity.
Her language was deliberate, reflecting a clear attempt to
bring the idea of Irish unity into modern, practical terms. It was also personal. Claire spoke with conviction, pointing to Michelle O’Neill’s leadership in Northern Ireland as proof that Sinn Féin can not only govern but govern well.
Throughout the interview, I kept returning to Claire’s demeanour. She wasn’t just delivering rehearsed lines or ticking boxes; she was engaged, relaxed, and genuinely interested in the conversation. For someone who has been through the grind of election campaigns,
that’s not always a given.
Even as she discussed policy and strategy, there was a lightness in her tone – an ability to connect with the human side of the issues. Whether we were talking about housing, policing, or the pressures facing rural communities, Claire’s responses felt rooted in her lived experience and her connection to her constituency.
Reflecting on our conversation, what stood out most wasn’t just Claire Kerrane’s knowledge or her ability to articulate Sinn Féin’s vision; she has a presence.
In a political world that often feels rushed and transactional, Claire’s ability to slow down, focus, and engage felt refreshingly different.
As she headed off to join her leader (Mary Lou McDonald) for a last-minute canvass, I found myself thinking about what makes a good public representative. It’s not just about policy or rhetoric, though those are important. It’s about the ability to listen, to connect, and to carry people with you. In Claire Kerrane, Sinn Féin has a TD who does all of that.
Dolan on community and rural challenges
S
itting down with Senator Aisling Dolan of Fine Gael for the first time, I was struck by how much ground there was to cover. Despite her being a prominent political figure in Roscommon-Galway since 2019, this was my first considered conversation with her. It felt overdue, especially given her rapid rise within Fine Gael and the fact that she has become a key figure in this constituency ahead of the General Election.
Before politics, Aisling’s professional life was a mix of education and enterprise. She spent years studying and travelling before working with organisations like Enterprise Ireland and, more recently, NUI Galway. Her political journey began in Ballinasloe, spurred by a local issue: the proposed siting of a waste transfer centre in the town. Frustrated by what she saw as a lack of consultation, Aisling became involved in a grassroots campaign against the project. That campaign quickly evolved into something more. Encouraged by those she worked with, she ran for Fine
Gael in the 2019 local elections and secured a seat in Galway’s Ballinasloe Municipal District. Not long after, in March 2020, she was nominated to the Seanad by the then-Taoiseach, an appointment that came at the outset of the Covid-19 lockdown. Recalling the surrealness of the moment, Aisling described driving to Dublin on near-empty motorways to take up her new position. It was an unusual start to a national political career, one framed by the challenges of a pandemic and the necessary adaptations that followed, such as the Seanad operating in the Dáil chamber for social distancing reasons. With a sharp wit, she quipped that while she hasn’t been a TD yet, she’s already spoken in the Dáil, albeit under unusual circumstances.
Throughout our conversation, Aisling displayed an impressive level of confidence and preparation. She was well briefed on key issues for the Roscommon-Galway constituency, including agriculture, housing, and health, and delivered her answers with the assuredness of someone deeply embedded in the political process. It’s the kind of
skill that comes with experience, but also from her ability to pivot seamlessly between the details of policy and the broader vision she has for the constituency. It’s fair to say that this comes across as second nature; her ability to articulate Fine Gael’s platform is polished in a way that only seasoned political figures can achieve. However, there’s no avoiding the uphill battle she faces in the General Election. RoscommonGalway is already a competitive constituency, and with other heavyweights like Martin Daly and Michael Fitzmaurice vying for two seats out of Galway’s 14,000 votes (or so) versus Roscom-
mon’s 70,000 (or so), the chances of three candidates being elected in the smaller of the two counties that makes up the constituency are slim. Aisling is clearly aware of these challenges but remains optimistic, focusing her energy on engaging voters directly.
When asked about the possibility of securing a ministry if elected, she tactfully avoided the question, stating that her priority is winning a “government seat” first. Her focus on the immediate task at hand reflects a certain pragmatism. Even as she allows herself to lean into the larger vision of what she might achieve as a TD, the mission was clear: get elected and get
into government.
Aisling’s relationship with Fine Gael’s leadership also came up during our discussion. While she avoided directly comparing the leadership styles of Simon Harris and other potential contenders, she spoke highly of the Taoiseach, particularly in the context of his work on further education, an area where they collaborated during his time as minister. Her sincerity in this regard felt genuine, grounded in her role as Fine Gael’s Seanad spokesperson for Further and Higher Education.
One recurring theme throughout our conversation was rural living.
Aisling spoke passionately about
the importance of resources and infrastructure to make areas like Roscommon and Galway more desirable places to live. It’s a deeply personal issue for her, shaped by her connection to Ballinasloe and the wider region. While she was undoubtedly presenting Fine Gael’s broader policies, it was clear that this was an issue she feels strongly about on a personal level.
Looking back, I was struck by Aisling’s overall demeanour. There’s an undeniable sense of ambition about her, but it’s tempered by a pragmatism and a focus on the work ahead. Whether or not that ambition translates into a seat in the Dáil remains to be seen. Roscommon-Galway is a tough constituency, and the odds are against Fine Gael taking a seat. But Aisling’s energy, drive, and clear ability to connect with voters when engaged, make her a candidate to watch.
This conversation offered a glimpse into a politician who is still relatively new to the national stage but is clearly determined to make her mark. It remains to be seen how Roscommon-Galway will vote, but Aisling Dolan has positioned herself as a formidable contender in what will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched constituencies in the up-
General Election.
coming
‘There’s an undeniable sense of ambition about her, but it’s tempered by a pragmatism and a focus on the work ahead’. Aisling Dolan chats to Emmett Corcoran during the Roscommon People election podcast. Photo: Michael Finan
‘Even as she discussed policy and strategy, there was a lightness in her tone – an ability to connect with the human side of the issues’. Claire Kerrane chats to Emmett Corcoran during the Roscommon People election podcast. Photo: Michael Finan
ELECTION 2024
• The People • The Personalities • The Power • The Promises
Fitzmaurice has instinct for concerns of public
PODCAST PLAYBACK
PAUL HEALY
H
e works up to “16, 17, 18 hours a day” – and his idea of relaxation is to hop on a digger on the bog at 6 am and listen to the birds sing.
When I asked Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice how he relaxes, it was about the only time that he hesitated during the podcast. ‘Relaxing’ isn’t really in his vocabulary, and it was only when he thought of those mornings on the bog in springtime that Michael realised he had a relevant answer to the question!
Regarded by many now as the dominant figure on the political stage in Roscommon, Fitzmaurice is a three-time national election winner (that includes his breakthrough by-election win in 2014). Over the past decade he has emerged as a leading voice of rural Ireland, and quite a media magnet too, much sought after by TV and radio producers. Indeed when he arrived into the Roscommon People office last week to take part in our election podcast series, ‘Fitz’ was taking up where he had left off the previous night… when he had sat in the Virgin Media Tonight Show studio and
debated with Matt Carthy, Helen McEntee and Jim O’Callaghan.
Admitting to a touch of tiredness, Michael confirmed that he had travelled up and down to Dublin the one night; more often than not that’s what the Independent Ireland TD does. Fitzmaurice covers a serious amount of ground on a daily and weekly basis, pushing himself relentlessly, surviving on a few hours’ sleep, always on the go.
He’s something of an interviewer’s dream, a straighttalker, both serious and entertaining when in full flight. He will occasionally drift offsubject, but that’s more than compensated for by the direct and passionate arguments he puts forward. Fitzmaurice is a free spirit of sorts too, which is refreshing. He’ll occasionally trade in clichés – some might accuse him of indulging in populism – but more often than not he is compelling, jolting programme hosts, political colleagues/opponents and listeners/ viewers with cogent and often convincing arguments. Interviewing him ‘on the record’ for almost an hour, I
Daly’s prognosis for a better society
‘Fitzmaurice
observed the Glinsk man start slowly, before gathering momentum to a point where he was in full flow entering the second half of our chat. And what a turn of phrase he has! While he has a sense of humour, Michael Fitzmaurice is very serious about his work and his role as a public representative. There’s a lot on his mind at the moment. Planning in Roscommon (which he is very
unhappy about). Ireland’s divisive approach on immigration (“It’s being done totally arseways”). A cocaine-fuelled society. Rural crime on the rise (he warns of a tsunami of Garda retirements). The scapegoating (as he sees it) of farmers in the climate change debate (“We’ve signed up to unrealistic targets… there isn’t a hope in God of us ever coming near the 2030 targets…).
A plain-speaking man, his mantra (and that of most of his Independent Ireland party colleagues) is that common sense goes a long way. It’s clear that Fitzmaurice is very knowledgeable and astute, and blessed with an instinct for what matters to people in rural Ireland. He aims high, but he’s also a pragmatist when the need arises. He’s not a great fan of wokeism (no surprise there).
During our chat, Fitzmaurice made it very clear that Independent Ireland will be up for entering Government if the numbers fall invitingly after the election. If he were to be offered a ministry, his short wish-list would read ‘Agriculture or Rural Affairs’.
Entering the last fifteen minutes of our wide-ranging chat, he’s in fine form. Yes, abuse of politicians is on the rise (and should be addressed), but he is “a fairly big lad” who generally responds to “the smart alec” who rings and “puts on the private number” by saying to the caller: “Name a place and I’ll meet you”.
Fitzmaurice becomes very thoughtful, a touch emotional even, when speaking about the neglect of vulnerable people, including children with autism. It is shameful, he says. We finished the podcast in more light-hearted mode. He’s not a “Lanzarote person” and “doesn’t do holidays” – apart from grabbing one or two days. Instead, he’s committed to work seven days a week, while engaging with young and old on a daily basis. And looking forward to early mornings on the bog in springtime, where solitude triumphs over his hectic schedule.
PODCAST PLAYBACK
PAUL HEALY
T he whole country might have been waiting several weeks for an election date, but Dr Martin Daly (with party backing of course) had hit the ground running.
The affable Ballygar man, supported by large teams of supporters, was on the canvass trail long before many other candidates were. It’s gruelling, but he’ll hope that his personal marathon campaign pays off. And he will quite reasonably argue that as a first-time candidate, he had to get out early, pound the pavements and press the flesh.
It’s an impressive ‘operation’. Dr Daly clearly has the full back-
ing of Fianna Fáil HQ. He has the backing of the party’s five county councillors in Roscommon. He is the chosen one. But naturally, I began our recent podcast by asking him about the fallout from a close selection convention (in which local delegates voted for Daly as their chosen Fianna Fáil candidate) and the subsequent decision of the defeated Senator Eugene Murphy to cast aside his FF ties and run in the election as an Independent candidate.
Daly dealt with my questions confidently and diplomatically. And he provided interesting insights into what has been
happening behind the scenes. He had approached Fianna Fáil – not the other way around (“This initiative came from myself”). He could not understand how Roscommon didn’t have a Government TD. He has not been promised a ministry in the event of being elected and Fianna Fáil being in the new government. The question of whether or not Eugene Murphy should be added as a second candidate was one for others, not for Martin. “That was outside my remit”.
He campaigned hard to win the convention, being up against it as he saw it, particularly as delegates “have to be two years on the list to get a vote”. He had found there was “an appetite for change amongst the delegates” of the party locally.
As for Eugene Murphy, Dr Daly said: “I want to make this absolutely clear… I have canvassed for Senator Murphy at two General Elections. I personally like Eugene… we get on well. But I felt I was better positioned to win a seat for Fianna Fáil in the next General Election and the delegates at convention seemed to agree with that proposition”. He fully gets the human aspect… the personal setback that Murphy has experienced.
Daly accepts that it must be very difficult for an established politician to lose a convention, and had “expressed that” to Senator Murphy directly after the vote in the Abbey Hotel.
Like any good politician, or aspiring one, the unfailingly polite Ballygar man was keen to discuss the election issues, and he
certainly had an abundance of well considered views.
Frustrated that Ireland is losing highly qualified young people – “the best in our history” – he had lots to say on housing, farming, rural development, immigration and such matters. You can see the full interview on the Roscommon People’s YouTube channel.
Being a popular GP for many years – with a very large practice – it was no surprise that Dr Daly had a range of proposals as to how issues besetting the health service could be addressed.
As we chatted on issues of concern, any attempt I made to remind the candidate that Fianna Fáil have been in power for five years was met with Dr Daly pointing out that he is a new candidate with new ideas,
‘Like any good politician, or aspiring one,
and besides (his argument goes) many of our problems go back further, and “it takes time to… turn a big ship”.
Dr Martin Daly came across as being very well informed, enthusiastic for the challenge ahead, and determined to effect change.
We finished our chat with a few words on Roscommon GAA matters. Dr Daly may have been born in Co Galway, but he has been Roscommon Team Doctor for 28 years.
“28 years later I’m still at it” he says of a role he greatly enjoys.
“It’s a bit like the Godfather 3… it’s harder to get out of it than it is to stay in it! I’ve hugely enjoyed it… it’s been one of the greatest pleasures of my life and one of the best decisions I’ve ever made”.
becomes very thoughtful, a touch emotional even, when speaking about the neglect of vulnerable people’. Michael Fitzmaurice taking part in the Roscommon People election podcast. Photo: Michael Finan
the unfailingly polite Ballygar man was keen to discuss the election issues, and he certainly had an abundance of well considered views’. Martin Daly taking part in the Roscommon People election podcast. Photo: Michael Finan.
ELECTION 2024
• The People • The Personalities • The Power • The Promises
Kerrane launches petition on need for more Gardaí
Sinn Féin Roscommon/Galway TD Claire Kerrane has launched a petition addressed to the Garda Commissioner, seeking an allocation of new Gardaí for Roscommon and Galway when 167 Gardaí pass out of Templemore early next month.
Speaking this week, Kerrane said, “I have, for the last year, repeatedly raised the rising number of burglaries and falling number of Gardaí in Roscommon and Galway at every level of Garda management – with the Superintendent, Chief Superintendent and the Garda Commissioner. I have also repeatedly raised the issue in the Dáil.
“There are 167 Gardaí due to pass out of Templemore in early December, and I have made a case to the Garda
Senator Murphy calls for early train to Sligo
Independent General Election candidate for Galway-Roscommon Eugene Murphy has called on Iarnrod Eireann to provide an early train service from Longford to Sligo.
“This is a busy route with workers and students seeking to travel daily”, he explained. “Young people attending the Atlantic Technological University, Sligo, or St Angela’s College are particularly affected.
“The first train in the morning departs Longford at 8.55 am and arrives in Sligo MacDiarmada at 10.16. This is too late for anyone with a 9 am, or even 10 am, start time.
“This matter has been raised regularly with me and I am asking Iarnrod Eireann to review the service times to facilitate people to get to work or college on time,” said Senator Murphy.
Commissioner to make allocations to Roscommon and Galway.
“I am looking for the people of Roscommon and Galway to put their support behind this ask by signing an online petition, which I have launched and intend to deliver to the Garda Commissioner”.
Deputy Kerrane said that burglaries in the Garda Division Roscommon belongs to are up 55% in the last year alone.
“Garda stations have been closed in both Roscommon and Galway and Garda numbers are down. We need new Gardaí allocated to our area”.
To sign the petition online, visit my.uplift.ie/petitions/new-garda-recruitsfor-roscommon-galway.
Daly calls for action to tackle ‘online bullying’ and excessive social media use
Dr Martin Daly, a Fianna Fáil candidate in Roscommon-Galway in the upcoming General Election, is calling for urgent action to address the rise in excessive social media use and online bullying among Irish youth.
His statement follows a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report revealing a marked increase in European adolescents struggling with overuse of social media and gaming, which are linked to serious risks for mental health, academic performance, and peer relationships.
The WHO report indicates that the percentage of adolescents displaying unhealthy social media habits rose from 7% to 11% between 2018 and 2022. Alongside gaming addictions, where a further 12% of young people exhibit warning signs, compulsive social media use is becoming a critical factor in the lives of Irish youth, with issues of online bullying compounding mental health impacts.
“These issues are particularly severe for young girls and early teens,” Dr Daly emphasised, “with many experiencing online bullying, which has a devastating effect on their self-esteem, increases feelings of isolation, and can lead to
depression, anxiety, and academic struggles. Digital engagement should empower our youth, not compromise their mental health or make them vulnerable to bullying and harassment”.
Dr Daly continued: “We need a proactive stance on this issue – strengthening regulation of social media, enforcing age limits, boosting digital literacy, and providing robust support systems for parents, schools, and the young people affected by online harassment.
“Social media and gaming can offer positive experiences,” Dr Daly stated, “but the challenge lies in ensuring these platforms don’t become sources of harm. We must take steps to reduce excessive use and address bullying, which increasingly threaten the wellbeing of our young people”.
Dr Daly is advocating for a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that includes digital literacy education, enforced age restrictions on social media, and targeted mental health resources to support today’s youth. He also stresses the need for stricter regulation of social media content and tighter oversight of the companies that operate these platforms.
‘Urgent action needed on Athlone-Ballinasloe bus route’
– Dolan
Fine Gael General Election candidate for the RoscommonGalway constituency, Senator Aisling Dolan, is demanding urgent action from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to progress a new bus route between Athlone and Ballinasloe to public tender. According to Senator Dolan, the service needs to be operational in 2025, providing urgently-needed connectivity for communities across the constituency.
Senator Dolan recently raised the matter again in the Seanad, stressing the importance of connecting communities to essential services, education institutions, and businesses in both Athlone and Ballinasloe.
Responding to Senator Dolan in the Seanad, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works Kieran O’Donnell, confirmed that the NTA, as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, is working on two proposals along the corridor with Local Link Galway.
“We are currently reviewing public transport connections between Loughrea, Ballinasloe and Athlone, serving settlements such as Kilconnell and Ballydangan”, he said. “We also plan to improve evening connections between Galway and Loughrea. This is planned to go to public tender soon”.
Senator Dolan said her call must be answered and that the NTA urgently needs to move to tender to provide this crucial service: “The Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan was meant to connect rural communities, but this region has been neglected”.
Senator Dolan said it is vital that we progress this tender without delay to provide transport to connect the communities living between the towns of Athlone and Ballinasloe, a stretch of 20km.
Dr Martin Daly, Fianna Fáil candidate in the Roscommon-Galway constituency, handing in his nomination papers for the forthcoming General Election to Olivia Bushell, Deputy Returning Officer. Also in picture is P Burke, Fianna Fáil Director of Elections, Roscommon-Galway. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin
Pictured is Senator Aisling Dolan.
Deputy Claire Kerrane
Senator Eugene Murphy
GOING OUT
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Jimmy Staunton (President, Connacht Rugby), Gerry Casey, Sean and Vincent Collins and Paul Markey. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club’s 50th Anniversary Book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Liam Rattigan (IRFU), Gerry Casey (IRFU), Eric Elwood (former Irish rugby international, now Academy Coach with Connacht Rugby) and James Staunton.
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Ursula Beades and Mary Grehan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Micheál Glennon, Moira Fitzmaurice and Lucy Glennon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Seamus and Madge Keane. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Jack and Mary Hegarty. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Mary Hegarty, Mary Seymour and Fiona Devaney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Bernie Higgins, Seamus O’Grady and Micheál Glennon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Aoife and Sheila O’Grady. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Stephen Gregory, Orla Fleming and PJ Moran. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Paul and Marie Bradley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
‘Everyone’s cancer journey is so different’
Roscommon woman on dealing with a cancer diagnosis, and the importance of support services
< EMMETT CORCORAN
In September 2023, Caoimhe Regan’s world changed overnight. Back in Roscommon for her grandmother’s funeral after completing a master’s in Occupational Therapy in England, she discovered a lump in her breast. Healthy, active, and with no family history of cancer, she approached the discovery calmly, but her GP’s immediate concern set a chain of events in motion. Within a week, she was at the Galway breast clinic undergoing tests, and by midOctober, she was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer. “It was a major shock to the system,” Caoimhe recalls. Though her professional training gave her some insight into healthcare, it was a surreal experience for her: “Having worked in healthcare settings for over ten years, it’s a completely different ballgame when you’re on the receiving end of the advice”.
Despite the shock, Caoimhe showed incredible resilience, even preparing family and friends for the possibility of bad news as she awaited her results: “That week gave me time to think and process what was coming, even if nothing truly prepares you”.
New reality
Treatment began in November 2023, forcing Caoimhe to put on pause her career aspirations and return home to Ireland. Always busy, and working two part-time jobs while completing her master’s; playing Gaelic football,
Fundraiser for Roscommon Cancer Support
A Christmas Food and Craft Fair being held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Sunday, 1st of December is in aid of Roscommon Cancer Support. This is a ‘must-attend’ event for family and friends and will feature numerous stalls providing Christmas food, gifts, crafts, etc. There will also be a performance by the Roscommon Men’s Choir! All proceeds in aid of Roscommon Cancer Support. Admission is free. Please support.
and maintaining a vibrant social life, she suddenly had to focus solely on getting through each day: “I needed the recovery time between chemo sessions, and something as simple as a walk or meeting a friend became really important”.
When she had good days, Caoimhe really did her all to embrace normality: “I was determined that when looking back… the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024… I didn’t want it to be all about cancer”.
By January 2024, she had connected with Vita House, a local support service in Roscommon Town. Here, she found activities like reiki, talk-therapy and reflexology, which became essential for her mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Accepting support didn’t come naturally at first.
“As someone who has always been in the role of a caregiver, professionally, it was new and uncomfortable to be the one seeking help. But it’s something you have to embrace”.
As Caoimhe became familiar with her treatment and how she
was responding to it, despite being very eager to get back to pursuing the career she had worked so hard for, she had to look for alternative positive distractions to give herself a boost.
“I’d have to really talk to myself and make the conscious choice to do the things I knew would make me happy, when I could”.
Thinking about the year that has been, Caoimhe recalled taking part in the VHI 10K Walk and the Walk-2K-a-Day-Challenge for Breast Cancer Ireland. And while working on being a fulltime support worker for herself, Caoimhe also shared her experience last month at a panel discussion at Shannon Shopping Centre when she and others shared their experience of Breast Cancer at a Breast Cancer Ireland fundraising fashion show.
“Everyone’s journey is so different. Mine is so different to yours and Mary’s and John’s. There are so many factors at play that you can well imagine there isn’t a one-size-fits-all way to manage cancer or our response to it.
“For me, even things as simple as meeting friends for coffee, choosing to go on a friend’s hen (party) and so on, they were all normal things but looking back, those moments of positivity were so important for me”.
Realisations and advocacy
The experience left Caoimhe with a strong belief in the importance of accessible support groups. She is particularly passionate about creating a group at Vita House that offers a consistent presence for people during and after treatment.
“The hardest time can be when the physical side is dealt with, but the emotional and mental challenges remain. Peer support can provide not only advice but also a sense of connection”. Caoimhe is also vocal about the need for better integration between cancer services. Her treatment at Portiuncula Hospital initially directed her to a cancer support centre in Ballinasloe, highlighting how referrals are often based on a hospital’s given geography rather than the individual’s. Greater flexibility, she believes, would benefit patients significantly. Additionally, oncology services signposting the types of available support services based on a particular patient’s needs was something she felt could be done more effectively for anyone going through cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Clearly thankful for all the support she has received, Caoimhe did note that there needs to be more joined-up thinking to ensure everyone going through
a serious illness, particularly cancer, would be aware of the full range of supports available. Many of the ancillary supports provided by Vita House are not directly funded by the HSE but with voluntary groups and organisations around the country. Her professional insight has also given her an appreciation for the role of complementary therapies such as those available at Vita House as well others such as massage which isn’t currently available at Vita House. “The studies are there, and these therapies play a bigger part in recovery than many realise,” she says, advocating for more recognition of their value.
Words of advice
For those navigating their own health concerns, Caoimhe’s message is clear: don’t ignore the signs. “Don’t be afraid to check yourself, see your GP, and ask questions. Early detection saved my life, and it could save yours too”.
Supporting others Through her own experience, Caoimhe has come to admire the often-overlooked work of cancer support services. The Roscommon Cancer Support Service, operating under Vita House, plays a crucial role in helping people like Caoimhe through their journeys. They provide holistic therapies, mental health support, and community connections, all while navigating limited funding and recognition.
This Christmas, Vita House is hosting a series of events to bring light and comfort to those affected by cancer. As Caoimhe focuses on her recovery and a future in occupational therapy, she remains a powerful advocate for the importance of early detection, peer support, and holistic care. Almost twelve months on from beginning treatment, her journey is one of resilience, but also a testament to the strength found in community and connection.
Pictured at the recent Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) and Wood Fuel Quality Assurance (WFQA) Scheme AGM 2024 at the Tullamore Court Hotel, Tullamore, Co Offaly is Patrick Flanagan, PJF Firewood, Co Roscommon receiving his WFQA annual certification.
WFQA suppliers are certified to meet the new Solid Fuel Regulations for wood fuels, ensuring clean and efficient burning. The WFQA is managed and administered by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA).
Pictured left to right: Seán Finan, IrBEA CEO, Shane Flanagan, Forestry Inspector at Forest Services, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and the Marine, Patrick Flanagan, PJF Firewood, Co Roscommon, Eugene Hendrick, WFQA Chairperson and Noel Gavigan, IrBEA Technical Executive and WFQA Manager. Photo: John Ohle Photography
Roscommon woman Caoimhe Regan (left) pictured with Juliette O’Connell, Outreach coordinator for Breast Cancer Ireland.
Entertainment, Culture & Arts
2025 Night and Day Festival line-up announced
Night and Day has announced its initial lineup of musical acts for 2025. The festival, now entering its fourth year, takes place from the 27th to the 29th of June at Lough Key Forest Park, Co Roscommon.
After the success of this year’s event, an extra stage has been added for 2025 with even more musical acts set to take to the Night and Day stage!
Swedish sing-songwriter Jose Gonzalez will take to the Queen Medb Stage for his only Irish performance of 2025.
Other acts taking to the Queen Medb stage include Jamaican reggae group The Wailers, who formerly played with Bob Marley, and continue to captivate audiences with their unique brand of reggae, blending the sounds of the past with a fresh, contemporary flair.
Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, who catapulted herself into the international music scene in 2005 with her classic debut album ‘Eye to the Telescope’, which spawned international hits like ‘Black Horse and the Cherry Tree’, will also take to the Queen Medb Stage.
Irish acts including The Stunning, Lisa Hannigan, and the Neil Young Tribute act Harvest, will also appear on the Queen Medb stage.
Acts taking to the Luna stage include Belfastbased folk singer and former Northern Ireland Mercury Prize best album winner Joshua Burnside, Irish multi-instrumentalist Daithi, druid rockers Bog Bodies, Dublin-based electro noise act Yard, slouch rock rising star Skinner as well as Frank, Shark School, James Keegan and Jester.
The winner of the 2024 Night and Day song contest, Dark Isle, will also be returning to the Luna stage in 2025.
Festival-goers can also explore the beautiful grounds and campsite at Lough Key Forest Park. Families will also be able to avail of the on-site activities such as zip-lining courses, forest trails and the tree-top walk.
Commedia of Errors present ‘Shakespeare’s Women’ at Roscommon Arts Centre
What if Ophelia met Juliet? Would she give her some relationship advice? What if Portia told Cleopatra to wise up? Headstrong, feisty, and in the thralls of love – but what can they learn from each other? Would they be happier (and less dead) if they just dumped their men?
Stuck in purgatory; watch as Jules and Fee jump in and out of heroes, villains, lovers and tyrants, probing Shakespeare’s bestknown characters to learn a little more about themselves. Can Goneril give them strength? Cleopatra power or Portia guile? Could Hamlet be the key to unlocking who they are, what went wrong, and why they’re still stuck playing their parts over and over forever more?
Commedia of Errors are delighted to present this new production of their smash hit Shakespeare’s Women. Described as ‘polished, thoughtful and good fun’, the debut play by Clare McMahon is coming to Roscommon Arts Centre.
To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
Glenamaddy Musical Society present ‘The Addams Family’
Glenamaddy Musical Society, who are celebrating their 30th anniversary this December, proudly present their production of ‘The Addams Family’ – a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family and features a very original story that is every father’s nightmare!
Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s ‘normal’ boyfriend and his parents.
The show is directed by well-known local amateur dramatist and musical enthusiast Nigel Cassidy. In 2023, Nigel excelled himself directing the wonderful Motown musical, ‘Sister Act’. Nigel
‘The Sound of Music’ opens in Boyle
has been involved in the Glenamaddy Amateur Drama Society and Glenamaddy Musical Society for a long number of years and is no stranger to the stage when it comes to both dramas and musicals. The ever-versatile and talented Niamh O’Flanagan is the show’s choreographer, and also plays the role of Morticia. Niamh has produced, directed, choreographed, and starred in numerous productions for Glenamaddy Community School and Glenamaddy Musial Society.
John Garvey plays the role of Gomez and his wonderful comic timing is given free rein with hilarious results.
The society is delighted to introduce a wonderful new talent in Ciara Farrell, who plays the role of Wednesday – a natural actress with a superb signing voice.
The show takes place in Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre on November 29th and 30th, and December 5th, 6th, and 7th – at 8 pm each night. Tickets can be booked on Eventbrite. Early booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.
Seamlessly fusing modern comedy and drama with classical verse, audiences will see Shakespeare and his favourite women in a brand new light. A modern examination of the relationships between men and women, this production has a direct appeal to younger audiences, female adults, and anyone else who wants to see Shakespeare dissected by two dead young women determined to be penned anew!
Performed by Calla Hughes (The Snow Queen, Lyric) and Catherine Rees (The Mousetrap, West End), this new production asks the question: Is there life after love, after death, after The Bard?
‘Shakespeare’s Women’ deals with themes of relationships, female-empowerment, toxic masculinity, and suicide. It is suitable for ages 12 and up.
‘Shakespeare’s Women’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, November 30th. Tickets are available via roscommonartscentre. ie or by phoning 090 662 5824.
‘Ghosts of Old Dún Laoghaire’ is the title of a new book, recently published by Roscommon- born Breasal Ó Caollaí.
The book gives an account of people who have lived in the port town from King Laoghaire (in whose honour the town is named) to Ronnie Drew (a native of the town).
Patrick Moran, the North Roscommon man who was executed in 1920 by the British authorities, for a crime he did not commit, gets pride of place in the new book. The leading humanitarian Roger Casement, who was executed for his involvement in attempting to land guns for the 1916 Rising, also features. The new book is selling for €20 per copy and has 160 pages. Copies are now available and can be ordered via email (eblanaclub@ gmail.com) or phone (086-074540), or bought directly from all good newsagents.
Pictured is Lizi Hannon, who plays Maria Rainer. Pic: Benny Morgan
Pictured is Rachel Bolger, who plays Liesl von Trapp. Pic: Benny Morgan
Glenamaddy Musical Society members pictured rehearsing for their upcoming production of ‘The Addams Family’.
KT Tunstall… is Boyle-bound
Spectacular Lanesboro residence new to market with Remax Team Earley
Remax Team Earley is delighted to present to the market this impeccably maintained semi-detached home, located at 4 Radharc Na Muileann, Lanesboro, Co Longford. Built in 2007, the residence offers a charming blend of comfort and convenience.
Positioned on a corner site within the tranquil development of Radharc Na Muileann, the property spans 1,260 square feet and features a thoughtful design with modern amenities.
Accommodation includes a welcoming hallway, a comfortable living room, a bright and spacious kitchen/ dining area, a utility room, and a convenient WC on the ground floor. The first floor comprises three bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes, includ-
ing a master bedroom with a private ensuite, and a generously-sized family bathroom.The exterior boasts a tarmac driveway with parking for two cars, a beautiful stone wall bordering one side of the property, and wellmanicured rear lawns complemented by a garden shed and secure panel fencing. Shrubs and flowers enhance the appeal of the front garden.
Situated in Lanesborough, a picturesque town on the River Shannon at the northern end of Lough Ree, the property provides access to a host of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports. It is conveniently located close to shops, coffee shops, and local schools, including three primary schools and one
secondary school. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby riverside and woodland trails. The property is just a ten-minute drive from both Roscommon and Longford, offering additional amenities such as shopping centres, cinemas, swimming pools, gyms, and golf courses, with train services to Dublin also available.
Viewings are available by appointment only, presenting an opportunity to secure this outstanding residence as your new home.
For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie.
Cathal Meares of Remax Team Earley proudly presents to the market approximately 4.2 acres of roadside lands, located at Kilerney, Co Roscommon, beside Roscommon town, comprised in folio rn32298 (plan no. 32).
This is an exceptional opportunity to acquire approximately 4.2 acres of roadside lands situated in the sought after location of Kilerney, Co Roscommon. These lands benefit from excellent road frontage, ensuring convenient accessibility and enhancing their suitability for a range of potential uses, subject to the necessary planning permissions. The property offers significant scope for further development, making it an ideal
prospect for investors or individuals seeking to capitalise on its prime location and untapped potential.
Set in a tranquil rural setting yet conveniently located near essential amenities, this property combines the best of both worlds: serenity and strategic positioning. The sale of these said lands offers prospective purchasers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this sought after area. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax. ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact the auctioneer Cathal directly on 086 1409158.
Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579
C. 0.45 ACRES ZONED LANDS, HENRY STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN
Prime opportunity to acquire c 0 45 Acres of lands adjoining Roscommon Town Centre and currently zoned ‘Residential Opportunity’ in the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan. The lands are ideal for a new residential development due to location and could also be used for commercial purposes, it being the former HB Depot occupying a floor area of c. 3,660 sq. ft.
Main Area 1
50’5” (15.37m) x 42’7” (12.98m) Sliding Doors to Front and Rear
Area 2
48’5” (14.76m) x 18’1” (5.51m) Former Cold Room
Area 3
32’ (9 75m) x 20’0” (6 1m) Former Cold Room
PRICE REGION : €200,000
Enquiries in Connfidence to Ivan Connaughton, Auctioneer 086-8985013
FarmingPeople
Friday 22nd November @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers
70 Pens on o er
Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks
Friday 29th November @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Bullocks
Also, Dry Cows and Heifers
Bookings accepted until Monday 25th November @ 5p.m.
Friday 6th December @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers
Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks
Bookings accepted until Monday 2nd December @ 5p.m.
Tuesday 26th November @ 4 p.m.
Sale of Weanlings
Bookings accepted until Thursday 21st November @ 5 p.m.
Lambs & Cast Ewes
Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m.
Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m.
Saturday 23rd November @ 3 p.m.
Knockcroghery Charollais
Complete Flock Dispersal Sale
On Behalf of Declan Miley
Consisting of Ewes, Ewe Lambs, 2 Stock Rams and Recipient Ewes Carrying Pedigree Embryos
ICMSA highlight PRSI “absurd anomaly” in transition from Sole Trader to Partnership
The Chairperson of ICMSA’s Farm Business Committee, Pat O’Brien, has called on the Government to address what he said was a serious anomaly that had farmers who had changed their enterprise status from ‘Sole Trader’ to ‘Partnership’ being asked to pay often sizable amounts of ‘back’ PRSI on the grounds that children of the family working the farm – who had been classified as ‘Class M’ under ‘Sole Trader’ status – were now employees of a ‘Partnership’ and were categorised under ‘Class A’ requiring a PRSI payment from their employer (their parents).
Describing the change in employee status for the purposes of PRSI as bureaucratic and absurd, Mr. O’Brien said that ICMSA was actively engaged in trying to convince the Department of Social Protection that in a situation where farms were trying to encourage the next generation of farmers to ‘take on board’ the realities and challenges of farm succession, it was utterly hopeless and
Cattle: There was a large entry of stock on o er at last Friday’s special sale of bullocks (November 15th).
Bullocks fetched an average of €3.25 per kilo up to €4.16 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.37 per kilo up to €3.17 per kilo. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.
Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.37 per kilo up to €3.17 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX -760KG -€2040 -€2.68 per kg, LMX- 720KG- €2200- €3.06 per kg, LMX -705KG- €2040- €2.89 per kg, LMX -690KG -€1760- €2.55 per kg, BBX-640KG- €1910€2.98 per kg, BA-615KG -€1740- €2.83 per kg, HEX- 595KG- €1400-€2.35 per kg, and LMX490KG- €1240-€2.53 per kg.
Bullocks ranged from an average of €3.25 per kilo up to €4.16 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX-805KG- €2630- €3.27 per kg, CHX- 775KG€2660 - €3.43 per kg, CHX-740KG- €2690€3.64 per kg, CHX- 690KG- €2371- €3.43 per kg, CHX- 660KG- €2530- €3.83 per kg, LMX - 615KG - €2360-€3.84 per kg, CHX- 590KG€2190-€3.71 per kg, and CHX- 535KG- €2150€4.02 per kg.
Weanlings
There was a smaller entry of quality weanlings on o er at our sale held on Tuesday evening, November 19th, with a strong trade for bulls and heifers. The next sale is on Tuesday, November 26th.
Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.43 per kilo up to €4.70 per kilo, and heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.35 per kilo up to €4.91. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with
Over 700 lots were presented at last Thursday’s sale at Castlerea Mart, and entering the nal month of trading, prices and trade remains exceptional. The heifer ring reported an excellent clearance, with demand increasing for the quality stores while the heavier lots topped out at €2300. The weanling rings had a similar tone, with bulls peaking at €4.34 a kilo while the heifer weanlings topped out at €4.07 a kilo.
Big numbers of dry cows are coming on stream with excellent demand for the stores while heavier lots topped out at €2370. The runner ring reported a ier of a trade, with top quality continental lots making up to €5.48 a kilo.
counter-productive to classify the children of a fam family as standard employees on whom PRSI must be paid.
“We are trying to show the next generation that there’s a future in farming and that it is possible to make a living – and here we have an anomaly that has children of the farmer that are classified as employees being treated as non-family ‘standard’ employees on whom PRSI must be paid in accordance with their ‘Class A’ categorisation. It’s just absurd and means that those children are moved further away from any possibility of one of them expressing an interest in taking over the farm. If we are serious about farm succession, then we have to recognise the special circumstances around a family farm that make the idea of it as a standard employer with ‘employees’ just unworkable. ICMSA is determined to address this absurdity and we’ll be raising it at every opportunity and most specifically at the Commission on Farm Transitions next year”, said Mr. O’Brien.
online buyers also active.
Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €3.43 per kilo up to €4.70 per kilo. Sample prices: LMX- 555KG -€1750 -€3.15 per kg, LM- 535KG- €2050- €3.83 per kg, CHX- 490KG€1860- €3.80 per kg, CHX- 430KG- €1740€4.05 per kg, CHX- 370KG- €1680- €4.54 per kg, and LMX- 315KG- €1480- €4.70 per kg.
Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €3.35 per kilo up to €4.91 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX-430KG -€1380- €3.21 per kg, LMX -405KG-€1530-€3.78 per kg, LMX-385KG€1370-€3.56 per kg, LMX- 325KG- €1290€3.97 per kg, CHX-310KG- €1050- €3.39 per kg, and LMX- 255KG- €1020- €4.00 per kg. Sheep
We had a smaller number of sheep on o er at our weekly sale of lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, November 20th, when compared to the previous week. Prices for spring lambs made up to €186 while stag ewes topped out at €226.
The next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, November 27th. The yard opens at 9 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.
Springs lambs, sample prices: 56.7kgs-€186€3.28 per kg, 51.6kgs-€185- €3.59 per kg, 53.2kgs-€184-€3.46 per kg, 48.7kgs-€180€3.70 per kg, 45.5kgs-€160-€3.52 per kg, 43kgs-€151-€3.51 per kg, and 39.1kgs-€141€3.61 per kg.
Cast ewes, sample prices: 90gs- €226-€2.51 per kg, 77.6kgs-€164-€2.11 per kg, 76.3kgs€198-€2.60 per kg, 70.4kgs-€160-€2.27 per kg, and 56kgs- €130-€2.32 per kg.
Lmx 710kgs €2340, Ch 885kgs €2340, Lm 720kgs €2240, Ch 765kgs €2190, BBx 775kgs €2130, Fr 440kgs €900, and AA 470kgs €980. Cows with calves at foot made from €1380 to €1650, and springers made from €970 to €1900.
At Castlerea Mart’s bullock sale on Monday, November 11th, there were 250 lots on o er, with prices for quality stores continuing to climb while heavier lots made up to €2450. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Mondays and Thursdays. All sales commence at 11 am.
ICMSA welcome review into ACRES
Speaking following the announcement by the Minister of Agriculture Food and the Marine that there will be a review into the ‘flagship’ ACRES environmental scheme for farmers, the Deputy President of ICMSA welcomed the move.
Eamon Carroll, who also chairs the association’s Farm and Rural Affairs Committee, said there is a real lack of confidence in ACRES at present and that trust and belief in the scheme needs to be instilled or the scheme will not only ‘fizzle out’ in the coming years but erode the enthusiasm of farmers for participation in future schemes.
“ICMSA acknowledge the ‘bandwidth’ that the ACRES scheme is covering, and we have tried to be positive about the scheme from the start”, he said. “But the undeniable facts are that the scheme has underperformed and has fallen well short of what was going to be require, both in terms of administration and payments.
“It’s just been wholly inadequate and has never really established itself as the kind of ‘flagship’ agri-environmental scheme it was meant to be – and which farmers would have welcomed.
“If ICMSA is going to participate in such a review – and we would be happy to do so – then we’ll want an assurance that all the recommendations arising from such a review will be implemented: the Department cannot ask us all for diagnose what’s wrong with ACRES and then pick and choose the solutions to the problems identified”, said Mr Carroll.
(Proudly serving farmers for over 65
Pat O'Brien, Chairperson of ICMSA Farm Business Committee
Classifieds
FARMING
FARM REPAIR SHOP
– Roscommon/Lanesboro area. Tel 087 2755738.
FUEL FOR SALE
(1st
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS
If you WANT to stop gambling ... and REMAIN stopped ... you CAN!
GAMBLERS
ANONYMOUS MEETING every Monday at 8.45 pm at St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Athlone (N37 W7P3).
CHIMNEY CLEANING COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES
Mobile
Footcare
CHIMNEY CLEANING
• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open res
• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods
CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS
• Can be cleaned from the bottom up
• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Telephone: 087 2798704
CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING
Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess)
- Open re - Stoves - Ranges
Chimney CCTV Inspection
OIL BOILERS SERVICED
Burners Repaired
CARPETS CLEANING
Satellite and Digital
TV Installation
All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com
Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.
MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie
General Building
● Extensions & Roo ng
● Groundworks
● Renovations
● Chimney CCTV Inspections
● Chimney Repair
- Insurance Claims
Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424
stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
COUNSELLING
& HYPNOTHERAPY
Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com
FOR SALE: 2 no. pony carts with harnesses. Call 087 2956874.
FUEL FOR SALE
FOR SALE: Turf and rewood for sale. Tonne bags. Excellent quality turf and rewood at €50 per bag delivered. Call Tom 086 2628439.
TRAILERS
TRAILER SERVICING & REPAIRS to all makes and models (LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.) Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon
GARDENING
BOOM SPRAYER TESTING
SERVICE
• Sprayers tested on owners premises
• Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.
• Small stock of parts available and can be tted on sprayers
All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069
e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com
D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083
FENCING/GATES
SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED ONLINE
Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
DANCE CLASSES
LINE DANCING CLASSES in Quad Centre, Roscommon town every Friday at 11.15am and Sundays at 6pm. Also in Four Mile House on Tuesdays at 7pm to 9pm with JIVING CLASSES and more from 9pm to 11pm. Tutor, Christopher Beirne: 086 8474744
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!
The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon! Thelocalpaper!
Design Consultation Planning Applications
New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural
086 3482387
info@moleskinarchitecture.com
facebook.com/moleskinarch
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Rui Wu, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to relocate the pre-school currently operating at 22 Waterville, Bealnamulla, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 E1H2, to Garrynagowna Td., Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 X965. The proposed development includes:
1. The change of use and material alterations to part of the existing detached domestic garage to facilitate pre-school services; 2. The use of a section of the garden for children’s activities;
3. All associated site works at Garrynagowna Td., Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 X965.
Signed: Rui Wu.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
HUGHES (née O’Connor)
May
Carrowcrin, Roscommon
On the First Anniversary of the sad passing of our dear mother May, we the family and extended family would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for all the sympathy, kindness and support shown to us at the time.
Thanks to all the kind people who called with food and refreshments to our house and also to Michael and Gertie’s house.
Thanks to all who sent text messages of sympathy, phone calls, Mass Cards, sympathy cards and letters. Thanks to all who left kind condolence messages on R.I.P.ie
Thanks to all who attended the removal at Smyth’s Funeral Home and her Requiem Mass the following day.
Thanks to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Pat Murphy and Fr. Shay Casey for the lovely Mass and to Carmel McLoughilin for the beautiful singing.
Thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth, Smyth’s Funeral Directors, for their professionalism and dignity and also to John Smyth.
Thanks to the Ambulance Service, doctors and nurses at Mullingar Regional Hospital who cared for May in her nal days.
Thanks to the doctors, nurses and sta at the Medical Centre, Roscommon for all their kindness down through the years and also McGuinness’ Pharmacy, Main Street, Roscommon town.
Thanks to all who helped with the car parking at Derrane Church and to An Garda Síochána for their assistance at Ballinaboy Crossroads.
Thanks to the gravediggers for preparing May’s nal resting place. Thanks to Gleeson’s Townhouse for the beautiful meal after the Mass.
As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude and appreciation.
May’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be held in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 23rd November at 7pm.
EARLEY
Patrick (Paddy) and Kathleen Donamon, Co. Roscommon
Who passed away on 28/10/2022 (2nd Anniversary)
Who passed away on 23/12/2022 (2nd Anniversary)
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
It’s lonely here without ye, we miss ye more each day, for life is not the same to us since ye were called away. To your resting place we visit, put flowers there with care, but no one knows our heartache, when we turn and leave ye there.
Forever in our hearts Mary, Brian, Patricia and Martin. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday, 24th November at 9.30am.
GODFREY (née Keane) Joelyn
Cloonfad, Ballyhaunis, Co. Roscommon Died 22nd October 2024. May She Rest In Peace
The family of the late Joelyn Godfrey (née Keane), Cloonfad, wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support, kindness, and generosity shown by our family, friends, neighbours, and wider community during this di cult time.
A sincere thank you to all who sent Mass cards, left thoughtful condolences on RIP.ie, and shared beautiful messages on Midwest Radio and Galway Bay FM. Your words of comfort have been deeply appreciated. We extend our gratitude to everyone who travelled to be with us, those who visited our home, attended the reposing, and joined us for the Funeral Mass. Your presence and support meant more than words can express. We are especially grateful to the wonderful community who formed a Guard of Honour on Joelyn’s nal journey home. This gesture touched us profoundly and will remain in our hearts.
Our heartfelt thanks to the sta at ‘Cuddles and Care Crèche’ for your kindness, support, and dedication during Joelyn’s illness.
Special thanks to Michael Cummins for his kind, caring words about Joelyn in the Mayo News. Your tribute captured her spirit beautifully. We are grateful to The Three Counties, Cloonfad, and to Jimmy and Eileen Flynn for providing refreshments, as well as to the incredible care teams.
Thank you to Prof. Macken Keane in Galway, Dr. Glen Lecky and the Old Bank Medical Centre in Ballyhaunis, the oncology and palliative care team at Mayo University Hospital, and the Galway University Hospital sta —who showed Joelyn such dedication throughout her illness. The compassion shown by the team at Mayo Hospice in her nal days will never be forgotten. Special thanks to Nurse Annmarie Foody, whose care and compassion were constant sources of comfort. And to the Roscommon Palliative Care Team and the Public Health Nurses who were so good and kind to Joelyn.
Thank you to all who donated to Mayo Hospice in Joelyn’s memory. Your generosity honours her and supports a cause close to our hearts.
Our deep appreciation to Paul and Susan Gaynor and P.J. Keane, Funeral Directors, for your compassion and professionalism. We will always be grateful for the care you extended to us and to Joelyn.
To the gravediggers, thank you for your respectful assistance with Joelyn’s nal resting place. Your care brought us great comfort.
Our cousin and dear friend Fidelma, your endless love and support for Joelyn’s children have been invaluable. We are all deeply grateful.
We wish to thank Fr. Joe Feeney, Fr. Stephen Farragher, Fr. Brendan McGuinness, Fr. Tommie Cummins, and Fr. Jimmy Heneghan for your comforting words. A special thank you to the choir, musicians – Karen Ronane, Georgina Costello, Annmarie and Liam Foody, Lorraine Godfrey, and Sorcha Godfrey – and to the Sacristan, Servers, and Eucharistic Ministers who made the Mass so meaningful. Thank you to Cloonfad National School sta and students who provided a guard of honour on the day of Joelyn’s Funeral Mass.
We extend our appreciation to Carol, Rachel, and Laura, who provided Joelyn with compassionate care in her nal days.
To our friends and neighbours who helped in countless ways – from preparing meals to managing tra c and taking care of every detail – we cannot thank you enough. Your kindness has been a true blessing. Finally, to our local community, your love and support have given us strength and comfort. We are eternally grateful for each and every one of you.
As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our deepest gratitude.
The Month’s Mind Mass for Joelyn will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloonfad, on Saturday, 23rd November 2024, at 7:00 pm.
BRENNAN
Bernard and Mary Highlake, Balymacurley, Four Mile House (14th and 7th Anniversaries)
In loving memory of our dear parents Bernard and Mary Deep in our thoughts your memory is kept to love and to cherish and never forget. Deep are the memories, precious they stay no passing of time can take them away. Treasure them Lord in your garden of rest while on Earth they were two of the best. Loved and missed by Miriam, Josephine, Caroline Ann and Bernie, grand-daughters and Marian.
Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, 24th November at 11 am.
MURRAY
Kieran
Athleague, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)
Who passed away on the 2nd December 2016
In loving memory of Kieran Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true. You did your best for all of us we will always remember you.
Sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen and family. Mass has been celebrated for Kieran.
THANKSGIVINGS
PRAYER TO ST. CHARBEL FOR URGENT FAVOURS AND MIRACLES
O Lord, in nitely holy and glori ed in your Saints, you inspired Saint Charbel to lead the perfect life of a hermit. We thank you for having granted him the blessing and the strength to detach himself from the world so that the heroism of the monastic virtues of poverty, obedience, and chastity might triumph in his hermitage. We implore you to grant us the Grace to love and serve you, following his example. Almighty God who has shown the power of St. Charbel’s intercession through his countless miracles and favours. (Make you request) through his intercession. Amen. Say one Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and 1 Glory Be. Also thanks to Sacred Heart of Jesus. J.C.
Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes, pray for me. St. Expeditus, Saint of urgent causes, St. Edwiges, the Saint of the needy, you know how desperated I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glori ed forever. Pray! Our Father, Hail Mary, Gloria. Pray for days, publish on the 3rd day. See what happens on the 4th day. C.S.
A silent house, an empty chair something missing everywhere. Life goes on, we know that’s true, but its not the same since we lost you. Your memory is so precious. Your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and loved by all of us. And throughout our lives, no matter where, in our hearts you are always there.
Lovingly remembered by his wife Alison, son Thomas, his godchild Claire, family and friends.
Anniversary Mass for John on Saturday, 30th November in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm.
A donation to Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice has been made in lieu of Memorial Cards.
SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED ONLINE
Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES
In loving memory of a life so beautifully lived, and a heart so deeply loved.
Loved and remembered by all the family.
Send your Family Notices to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
CRONOLLY
James
Ballintubber, County Roscommon formerly Killasser, Swinford, County Mayo
The family of the late James Cronolly who passed away on November 27th, 2023, would like to express our deep appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us and supported us at the time of our sad loss.
Thanks to all who attended the Funeral Home, Mass and burial. Thanks to all those who sent Mass Cards, condolences and oral tributes.
Thanks to all our relatives, neighbours and friends who called to the house.
Thanks to the Medical sta , Doctors, Nurses and Carers who looked after James.
Special thanks to Kelly Henry Medical Centre, Castlerea and to Drumderrig House Nursing Home, Boyle.
Thanks to James Kenny and Niall Flanagan who handled all the funeral arrangements with kindness and care.
We also thank Fr. Pat O'Toole for his meaningful funeral mass and prayers.
Heartfelt thanks to An Garda Siochana for their presence and tribute at the Funeral.
As it would not be feasible to thank you all individually, we trust that you will accept this acknowledgement as a token of our gratitude.
Anniversary Mass for James Cronolly will be celebrated in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber on Sunday 24th November at 11:30am.
HUNT
Leo
Golf Links Road, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)
Who passed away on 24th November 2020.
How quickly time has gone by, another year since we said goodbye, often thought of with lots of love, keep watching over us from up above.
Always loved and remembered by his wife Kathleen, Orla, Damian, Michelle and Alan, their partners and grandchildren.
Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 23rd November at 10am.
HAUGHEY
Noel
Correal, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary)
In loving memory of Noel who died on 23rd November, 2015.
What he suffered he told but few, he did not deserve what he went through, tired and weary he made no fuss, but tried so hard to stay with us.
Loved and remembered by Margaret and family.
Anniversary Mass on Saturday evening 23rd November at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague
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 non-publication. 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.
SNYPE
Mike & Gretta (née Madden) Hollywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon
(22nd Anniversary)
Mike who passed away on 26th February 2002
(23rd Anniversary)
Gretta who passed away on 18th July 2001
Cherished memories of our dear parents. You always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care, a wonderful nature warm and true, those are the memories we have of you.
Always remembered by your family, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Mass has been o ered in Knock. May they Rest In Peace.
DINEEN (née Cahill) Breege
Cloonbard, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, - In loving memory of our wonderful wife and mother whose Third Anniversary occurs on November 25th 2024
Mother
We think about the fleeting years too quickly gone for good. It seems like only yesterday. I’d go back if I could.
A time when Mam was always there, no matter what the weather. Always strong when things went wrong. She held our lives together.
She taught us that hard work pays off, you reap just what you sow, She said if you tend your crops, your field will overflow.
Mam dwells among the angels now, she left us much too soon. She glides across a golden field, above the harvest moon.
We see her in the summer rain, she rides above the wind. And when our path is beaten down, she picks us up again.
A Prayer for the Forgotten Dead O Merciful God, take pity on those souls who have no particular friends and intercessors to recommend them to Thee, who, either through the negligence of those who are alive, or through length of time are forgotten by their friends and by all.
Spare them, O Lord, and remember Thine own mercy, when others forget to appeal to it.
Let not the souls which Thou hast created be parted from thee, their Creator. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Always loved and fondly remembered by Christy, Lisa, Nigel, Lorraine, Olivia, baby Vanessa, Cathal, Danielle, Christopher and Declan.
Breege’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 22nd at 7pm in St. Paul’s Church, Kilmurray. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace that she so richly deserves.
www.brianmurraystone.com
GARVEY
Michael Gerry
Caltraduff, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon who died on the 21st of November 2023, aged 57 years (1st Anniversary)
For all you were to us in life, and all the joy you brought, your memory is with us, in every single thought. The pain we felt at losing you, will never go away, But knowing you are in our hearts, helps us through each day, When you were here, we always felt that nothing could go wrong. But you’re still our inspiration, and your memory keeps us strong. And although our hearts are heavy, they are also full of love. And that’s enough to comfort us, while you are in heaven up above.
Loved and missed always by his daughter, son, son-in-law, grandson, brothers and sisters, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, aunt and uncle.
First Anniversary Mass on Saturday 23rd November 2024 at 7 pm in St Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF GARVEY
Gerry
Caltraduff, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon Whose 1st Anniversary occurs on the 21st of November.
The beauty of your memories Gerry, Is that they’re always there, Like a penny in our pockets, We take them everywhere. And when our hearts are heavy, And our eyes fill up with tears, We focus on a memory of you, To help us through the years. Our hearts can visit happy times, When fun and laughter filled the air, And the presence of your memories Gerry, Lessens our despair. So as we travel on in life, We take comfort as we go, In a lifetime of great memories, Of you who we love so.
Deeply missed, never forgotten by your loving brother Austin, Carol and family.
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES
The brothers and sisters of the late Tommy Dolan, who passed away on the 1st of December, 2023 wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with us and supported us on our sad loss.
Thanks to all the people who attended the reposing and Funeral Mass. Thanks to Father Julian and Father Pat for their thoughtful and special Mass.
Thanks to Carmel McLoughlin for her singing and music at the Mass. A special word of thanks to Rena and Niall Flanagan for their professionalism and support with the funeral arrangements. A sincere expression of gratitude to our neighbours and friends, especially those who visited Tommy, during his nal weeks. It meant so much to him and to us.
Thank you to the wonderful sta in University Hospital Roscommon and in the Cois Abhann Centre Castlerea who cared for Tommy over the years.
We are eternally grateful to the carers, nurses and doctors in Mayo Roscommon Hospice who looked after Tommy and all of us during his nal weeks. Despite the sadness of those weeks, Tommy was very comfortable and at peace due to the love and care that surrounded him.
As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement on his rst anniversary as an expression of our deep appreciation.
Tommy, you will forever be in our hearts. The 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 11.30 am on Sunday 24th of November 2024 in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber
QUINN Kevin
Carrowphadeen, Lecarrow, Roscommon
Doris Feely Quinn, together with the Quinn and Feeley families, would like to express our deep appreciation to everyone who sympathised and supported us at the time of our sad bereavement.
A very special thanks to our neighbours, friends and family who brought food and refreshments and to all who helped out with catering over the days that Kevin reposed in our home.
A very sincere thank you to the tra c management team for the excellent job they did. Thank you to everyone who telephoned, sent Mass and sympathy cards, online condolences, oral tributes and those who travelled long distances to be with us. We are eternally grateful to the doctors, nurses and sta in Galway and Roscommon University Hospitals for the care and kindness shown to Kevin and our family.
Thank you to Fr Julian for celebrating Kevin’s Funeral Mass and the kindness and support shown to the family over that time. Thank you to those who participated in the mass and especially the choir. We would like to express our deep gratitude to Pat and John McHugh for the compassion, kindness, attention and detail in arranging Kevin’s funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep appreciation and thanks.
Kevin’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber on Sunday December 1st at 11.30a.m.
HAMROCK (née Healy)
Mary
Athleague, Roscommon / Ballygar, Galway
We, the family of the late Mary Hamrock, (née Healy), who died on 23rd October, 2024, would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for all the support and expressions of sympathy we received following the loss of our dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and aunt.
We o er our sincere thanks to our family, friends and neighbours who attended our mother’s removal, Funeral Mass and burial. To those who travelled long distances to be with us, thank you.
We appreciate all those who sent Mass Cards, messages of condolence by text or on RIP.ie. Your tributes and memories will be treasured by us. We would like to acknowledge the wonderful care given to Mammy by each of her carers. We are very grateful to Dr. Valerie Morris, Dr. David Harrison and all the sta of the Primary Care Centre, Roscommon and also Louis Conlon and his sta in Athleague Pharmacy for their professional care, kindness and patience over the years.
A special thanks to Fr. Ali and to his concelebrants, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Donal Morris, Fr. Christopher and Fr. Tony Gillespie, for making the Funeral Mass a true celebration of Mammy’s life.
To Margaret, Sean, Kitty and Pat, thank you for the music and hymns which made Mammy’s nal Mass very special.
A special thanks to Garda Owen Crehan and Roscommon Gardai for tra c management and to Athleague GAA who provided the Guard of Honour. Special thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Mammy’s nal resting place with such care and respect. Thanks to Donal Hamrock, Funeral Director, for his professional and digni ed manner in the organisation of Mam’s Funeral.
Thank you to Delicious Catering for the beautiful meal they provided in Athleague Community Centre.
As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep appreciation and thanks.
Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 30th November at 7pm.
McCROSSAN
Danny and Josephine Celtic Avenue, Roscommon
In loving memory of our dear father Danny, who died on the 25th November 2019 and our dear mother Josephine, who died on the 30th January 2021. R.I.P.
A smile for all, a heart of gold two of the best this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind these are the memories you left behind.
Always remembered and sadly missed by their daughters Roseanne, Philomena, sons Willie, John and Paul and all of the family.
Anniversary Mass on Saturday 23rd November at 10 am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.
On this the First Anniversary of Kathleen’s passing, we her family, wish to sincerely thank all who supported and sympathised with us and attended her Funeral.
Thank you to her wonderful neighbours and friends for your kindness and many visits to Mam over the years.
Thank you to the wonderful sta of Sacred Heart Care Home for the exceptional care of Kathleen over the past 3 and a half years.
To the Doctors and sta of both St. Coman’s Medical Centre and Castle Street Medical Centre thank you for always being so attentive to Kathleen.
Thank you Fr. Kevin for his guidance and the lovely Mass. To Eimear Reynolds thank you for the beautiful music.
Thank you to Pat Smyth, Smyth Funeral Directors, for his support, guidance and professionalism which was greatly appreciated.
As it is impossible to than everyone individually please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our sincere appreciation.
First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 30th November 2024 at 7pm.
CURLEY
Peter and Molly
Thomastown, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon
In loving memory of Peter who passed away on 19th October 2008 and Molly who passed away on 24th November 2018 (16th and 6th Anniversaries)
You are missed so much.
I often think about the years that have passed by and of the happiness and joy that was shared by you and I. I think of all the laughter, the smiles and all the fun, and before I even know it, my tears have once again begun. For although it brings me comfort to walk down memory lane, it reminds me how, without you both, life has never been the same.
Always lovingly remembered by your daughter, Mary. Mass o ered.
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 non-publication. 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.
KELLY (née Lynch)
Sylvia
Late of Main Street, Kilcormac, Co.
and Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)
Who passed away on the 15th November 2020
A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, it broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the best. Your life was love and labour, you loved your family true, you did your best for all of us, we will never forget you. Our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same, we try to hide our heartache, when someone speaks your name. Our heart still aches with sadness, and secret tears still flow, what it meant to lose you, no one will every know.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your husband Mike, sons James, Micháel and daughter Grace. xxxx Mass has been o ered.
Send your Family Notices to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
TARPEY Lilly Scrine, Rahara (17th Anniversary)
A quiet thought, a silent prayer for someone special in God’s care
Forever in my thoughts, your loving friend Teresa. Anniversary Mass on Monday 9th December at 7 pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.
Offaly
CULLINAN
Sr. Jacinta
McAuley House, Roscommon and late of Ballinagare, Castlerea (1st Anniversary)
In loving memory of Sr. Jacinta Cullinan who returned to God November 21st 2023
As we fondly remember the late Sr. Jacinta on her 1st Anniversary. We, her family, wish to acknowledge and sincerely thank everyone for their kindness and support shown to us during our very sad loss.
We wish to acknowledge and thank each and every one from all over the country and various committees, who helped and supported Sr. Jacinta during her life time. To all the children who brought great joy, love and inspiration to her life. In her own words “it has been a privilege and a course of much enjoyment and ful lment to me.
I am grateful to them for the way they enriched my life.”
A sincere thank you to her dear community/family at McAuley House, Roscommon, to John and all the sta past and present for their hospitality over the years. Thank you to the present and past Mercy Provincial Leaders and their teams. Thanks also to everyone for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Sr. Jacinta over her lifetime with the Mercy Order. The Sisters of the Western Provence and her many friends in religious life – friendships she cherished dearly. Thank you.
A special word of thanks to Fr. Joe Fitzgerald, who celebrated her Funeral Mass so meaningfully. Also a sincere thank you to the concelebrating priests at the Mass and those who attended the Funeral Home, prayers in the church, or the prayers at her nal resting place. Fr. Kevin Fallon, Fr. Micheàl Donnelly, Ballinagare; Fr. Michael O’Brien, Fr. Michael Donnelly, Fr. George Agger, Fr. Frank Glennon, Fr. Michael Breslin, Fr. Raul, Fr. Sean Beirne, Fr. Pravin.
A special thank you to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin who celebrated her Month’s Mind Mass. Thank you to all for making the Masses and her Funeral so special. Thank you to the Sacristans and everyone who helped and participated in the Mass and prepared the Church. A special thank you to Mr. Oliver Hanley for his help.
A special thank you to Jacqueline Kenny, Sr. Christina Du cy and Sr. Jacinta’s nephews for the beautiful music.
A sincere thank you to everyone who attended Sr. Jacinta’s place of repose, removal, Funeral Mass or burial. Some of whom travelled long distances. To all who sent Mass Cards, phonecalls, messages of sympathy online and watched the Mass online and those who remembered her in a prayer. To the lovely tributes to her in the papers and online afterwards. She would always acknowledge the support and help she had received from so many generous people over her 65 years in the Mercy Order.
Our heartfelt thank you to her special children and families who came to pay their respects. We also remember the families and children who were not able to come or who are no longer with us, but who gave her so much joy, love and inspiration and enriched her life. To those who are no longer with us. May they rest in Heavenly peace. To her many dear friends who telephoned, emailed, wrote or visited her in McAuley House and in Innis Ree. A sincere thank you.
Thanks to Pat and John Smyth, Funeral Undertakers for their professionalism and kindness. A special thanks also to Eamon Ryan and friends and her nephews, who prepared her nal resting place with such care and respect. Also her nephews who played at the graveside. Thanks also to those who stood and welcomed her back, at the entrance to the cemetery of her beloved Ballinagare.
Sincere thanks to Triest Press printing for their professional work.
To past and present sta at St. Michael’s School, Castlerea who formed a Guard of Honour as we left the funeral home.
Sincere thank you to Dr. Martina Hanratty and sta , Dr. Elizabeth Sweeney and sta . Fiona Curley and the team, the home help team. The doctors and nurses at the Mater Hospitals, Portiuncula Hospital, Roscommon Hospital for the great care she received through the years.
A special word of thanks to the manager and all the sta at Innis Ree Nursing home for their care and kindness to her during her nal few months. To Nurse Francis, the paramedics and Mullingar A&E for their help and compassion on the night of her passing. To the priest who anointed her in A&E a special thank you. A special thank you to Sr. Mary Fallon and John for their compassion and support on the night. Thank you to Fr. Michael Joyce and the other priests who celebrated Mass in Innis Ree each day. The most treasured part of her day.
Sincere thanks to the Manager and sta at Gleeson’s Townhouse and the Abbey Hotel for the lovely food they provided.
As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep and heartfelt gratitude to all who helped us in any way and those who supported Sr. Jacinta during her life. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass has been o ered for your intentions.
Remembering all Sr. Jacinta’s deceased friends. May they rest in Heavenly peace
Sr. Jacinta’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday November 24th at 11.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.
BURKE (née McTiernan)
Geraldine
Clashaganny, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon (Who died on 25th November, 2023 – 1st Anniversary)
On the First Anniversary of Geraldine’s passing, we her family, would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our loss. Thank you to all our great friends, family and neighbours for your kindness and generosity to us. Thank you to those who attended Geraldine’s removal and Funeral Mass and the many people who travelled long distances. Thank you to those who sent condolences, Mass Cards, sympathy cards, letters, donations to the MS Society. Your thoughtfulness and support have meant the world to us, and we are eternally grateful.
We thank most sincerely the sta of Roscommon University Hospital for their outstanding care and dedication to Geraldine during her illness.
To the sta of RSG Derrane for their wonderful homecare to Geraldine for many years.
We are most grateful to Fr. John Gannon for his pastoral care of Geraldine over the years and celebrating her Funeral Mass, we thank Fr. Eamon Conaty for con-celebrating the Mass, we thank Fr. Sean Beirne, Fr. Kevin Fallon for their pastoral care during her time in hospital. We are grateful to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Fr. Pravin who attended at the Funeral Home.
Thank you to Pat and Gillian Smyth, Funeral Directors for taking care of arrangements with such professionalism, dignity and attention to detail and thanks to the gravediggers for preparing Geraldine’s nal resting place so beautifully adorned with owers.
We would like also to thank the Abbey Hotel for providing a lovely warm meal after the Funeral.
As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Michael, Bernie and Tommy Joe, her sister May and brother Tommy, daughter in law Mary, grandchildren, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
Geraldine’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House at 11am on Sunday 24th November, 2024.
In loving memory of Paddy who died on the 11th September, 2017 and Marie who died on the 5th November, 2013
Softly the leaves of memory fall Gently we gather and treasure them all Unseen, unheard ye are always near So missed, so loved, so very dear.
Lovingly remembered by Mary, Martina, Alan, Ted, Elaina, Mark, Shane, Rebecca, AJ and Séimí.
Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Saturday, 23rd November at 7pm.
KILCOMMONS
Bridie
Kilbegnet, Creggs
In loving memory of Bridie, who passed away on November 24th, 2023. Rest in Peace. (1st Anniversary)
A wife, a mother, a grandmother too, this is the legacy we have from you. You taught us love and how to fight, you gave us strength, you gave us might. A stronger person would be hard to find, and in your heart, you were always kind. You fought for us all in one way or another, not just as a wife not just as a mother. For all of us you gave your best, now the time has come for you to rest. So go in peace, you’ve earned your sleep. Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep.
Sadly missed by your loving Sons, daughters, grandchildren, great grandchild and all the extended family, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Mass for Bridie Kilcommons will be held in St. Mary’s Church Kilbegnet, Creggs on Sunday, November 24th at 11:30am
bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV CHECK IF REQUIRED.
Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrick-on-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss.
Fully Registered. Call Dave on 085 8888833
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
&
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 non-publication.
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.
ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE
Tyre Fitter Required
• Immediate Start •
Email CV to: roscommontyrecentre@gmail.com Experience not necessary but would be an advantage
SITUATIONS VACANT
SHOP/GENERAL ASSISTANT required for part-time position.
• 18/20 exible hours per week.
• Fluent English essential. Email replies to connaughtdrycleaners@gmail.com
CARE ASSISTANT - FULL TIME
Seeking a kind and professional care assistant for an elderly male. Five days a week (35 hours) to assist with personal care, medication management, mobility assistance & companionship, in a welcoming home in Dromod. Previous experience preferred, valid driver's license necessary. CONTACT: UNA - 0832087917
MAN AVAILABLE
LABOURER AVAILABLE to do fencing, concreting foddering, tidying – any odd jobs. Tel. 087 9235745.
Post Office Supervisor/ Clerk(s)
Full-Time
Are you committed to providing quality service to customers? Do you want to work in a progressive commercial environment?
Glancy’s SuperValu, will open it’s new AN POST RETAIL UNIT IN EARLY 2025
We are currently seeking suitable candidates for upcoming vacancies. The ideal Candidate will have:
• excellent customer services skills & be committed to delivering a high standard of service quality.
• sales focus and a full understanding of the importance of customers to our business
• A flexible attitude & approach to work and attendance patterns
• strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work well as part of a team
• good PC skills
• previous cash handling experience and the ability to maintain a high standard of accuracy and care in handling cash, stock and balancing accounts etc.
If you are interested, please send a letter of application with current CV to: The Manager, Glancy’s SuperValu, Cortober, Co. Roscommon Apply Via Indeed or Email: glancpost@gmail.com
Unit 6, WestPoint Business Park, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, Ireland. N37 E3W9
An electrical Switchgear, engineering, manufacturing and design company the Midlands, Athlone are looking to expand its manufacturing team. We following positions available.
An electrical Switchgear, engineering, manufacturing and design company located in the heart of the Midlands, Athlone are looking to expand its manufacturing team.
General Operative
We currently have the following positions available:
CNC Operator
Mechanical / Electrical Assembly Technician
(5x) Electrical Assembly Technicians
This is a great opportunity to join a fast-paced expanding engineering company offer to the ideal candidate.
Hours - 4 Day Work Week (Monday - Thursday, 7.30am – 5.30pm)
The company requires technicians to join this quality focused team responsible for the following tasks:
Please apply with your CV directly to HR@centralswitchgear.ie or call 0906498112
● Assemble electrical components per a detailed electrical/ mechanical design package.
● Wire up internal components including ACB’s, MCB’s MCCB’s, RCBO’s as part of an inclusive skid.
● Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guide lines.
Full training will be given to the ideal candidate.
(5x) Mechanical Assembly Technicians
Hours - 4 Day Work Week (Monday - Thursday, 7.30am – 5.30pm)
The company requires technicians to join this quality focused team responsible for the following tasks:
● Assemble mechanical components per a detailed mechanical design package.
● Build, punch and form copper busbar components.
● Assemble mechanical enclosures.
● Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guide lines.
Full training will be given to the ideal candidate.
Please forward a CV together with two written references to Central Switchgear at: hr@centralswitchgear.ie The closing date for receipt of applications is January 10th, 2025 Short listing may apply.
Sports PEOPLE
Elphin to host Roscommon Scór Final
Young GAA members from around the county will descend on Elphin Community Centre this coming Saturday, November 23rd, as the Roscommon GAA County Final of Scór na nÓg take place.
After two keenly contested semi-finals in Taughmaconnell and Kilmurry, nine clubs will compete to bring titles back to their clubs and win the chance to represent the county at Connacht level. Stage events commence at 7 pm and these will be preceded by the Tráth na gCeisteanna Boird (Table Quiz) qualifying round at 5.30 pm.
The following clubs and competitors will contest the Roscommon Scór na nÓg Final 2024: Athleague/ Tremane, Tulsk, St Dominic’s, and Padraig Pearses will compete in the figure dancing category. Sorcha Gilboy (St Michael’s), Abby Flatley (Michael Glaveys), Gemma Casey (St Dominic’s), and Grace Collins (Kilmore) will compete in the solo singing category. Henry Gunn (Elphin), Matthew Ffrench (Kilmore), Eabha Nally (Roscommon Gaels) and Emily Hunt (Kilmore) will compete in the recitation/ storytelling category. Kilmore, St Michael’s A, Padraig Pearses, St Michael’s will compete in the ballad group category. Elphin, St Dominic’s A, Padraig Pearses and St Dominic’s B will compete in the novelty act category. Kilmore, St Michael’s, Padraig Pearses and Elphin will take part in the instrumental music category. Elphin and Kilmore are in the set dancing category.
A reminder to all clubs and supporters that the county final is a ticketed event, and tickets can be purchased online at roscommongaa.ie.
Oran still alive despite loss in final
Roscommon champions Oran were pipped by Galway champions Ahascragh/Caltra in last weekend’s Connacht Club Intermediate Camogie final, played in Fohenagh on Saturday.
It was a good performance from Colm Kelly’s side who led 1-4 to 0-5 early in the second half. However the home side outscored the Roscommon team by 0-6 to 0-1 after that to edge the contest by 0-11 to 1-5.
Andrea Fallon’s goal in the opening half kept Oran in touch and with Hazel Kelly, Erin McDermott, Orla Connolly and Anna Hussey in excellent form, Oran were in the hunt for most of the way.
Ahascragh/Caltra finished the stronger side with Aoibhe Glynn their star performer, scoring 0-6 on the day.
Oran are still in the championship and will face the Armagh champions Granemore in the All-Ireland junior semi-final at the end of the month.
Athleague-Tremane are county U-14 hurling league champs
Athleague-Tremane triumphed in the U-14 Hurling League Final at Lisnamult on November 4th last, securing a comfortable 4-13 to 3-6 victory over Roscommon Gaels.
The match, a re-run of their earlier championship encounter, saw Athleague-Tremane enter as favourites after their convincing performance earlier in the season.
While the Gaels put up a valiant fight, they were ultimately unable to challenge the visitors’ dominance.
Athleague-Tremane: Tom Hanlon, James Kelly, Tom Óg Reddington, John O’Byrne, Eoin Kelly, Ryan Lynch, Patrick Gordon, Liam O’Brien (1-0), Tom Mulligan (0-1), Conor Durr, Fionn Healy (02), Cian Connaughton (2-7, 5f)), Cody Keegan,
Harry Gordon (1-3), Tommy Cuddy. Management: Mervyn Connaughton, Marty Healy, Sean O’Brien, Gabriel Lynch.
Roscommon Gaels: Russ Reynolds, Matthew Rabatin, Sean Nugent, Mikey Mulhern, Tommy Hayes, Will Connaughton, Darragh Connaughton, Ronan O’Donnell, Ryan Halligan (1-0), Samuel Godfrey, Cathal Nerney (2-6), Jonathon Greene,
Daniel Byrne, Will O’Gara, Ryan Hegarty, Fionn Hughes, Leo Geraghty, Bobby Gannon, Enzo Tavares, Fíonn O’Rourke, Senan Grogan. Management: Shane Nerney, Nicola Crosbie, Lorraine Reynolds, Dion Hegarty.
Player of the Match
Cathal Nerney (Roscommon Gaels)
Coiste Scór Ros Comáin would like to wish all clubs and competitors the best of luck in their preparation. This weekend’s winners will go forward to represent Roscommon in the Connacht Final on Saturday, December 7th, in the Town Hall Theatre in Claremorris.
Hannah Kilroe, Caoimhe White, Lily Richardson, Saoirse Heavey, Teagan Healy and Alannah Reddington were part of Athleague-Tremane’s representatives in the recent Scór Roscomáin county semi-finals. They qualified for the county finals and will go on to represent the club in the Rince Foirne discipline on the 23rd of November in Elphin. Maith sibh!
Athleague-Tremane players, management and young supporters pictured after they won the county U-14 hurling league final.
SportsPeople
Two-day meeting at Punchestown this weekend
Horses for Courses by
Racing today (Thursday) is over the sticks at Thurles, Co Tipperary. First race is at 12.35 pm, subject to an early morning inspection.Tomorrow sees evening racing on the all-weather under lights in Dundalk, stalls for the first opening at 5 pm, and an extra national hunt meeting scheduled at Tipperary, with tapes away at 12.12 pm for the first.
Saturday sees the first of two days racing at Punchestown, first race at 11.30 pm, and featuring the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle and the Grade 2 Florida Pearl Novice Chase.
Racing on Sunday starts at 11.35 pm with the Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase and the Grade 2 Craddockstown Novice Chase, with no racing scheduled for Monday. There is also racing at Cork, near Mallow, on Sunday, away at 12.20 pm. Hexham card yesterday was abandoned.
TV coverage starts on Friday with ITV showing four races from Cheltenham including both
Short putts
BOYLE
Grade 2 races, the Shloer Chase and the Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle. On Saturday, ITV cover six races – four from Cheltenham including the Grade 2 Paddy Power Arkle Challenge Trophy Trial Chase, and two on the flat from the all-weather meeting at Newcastle. On Sunday, ITV will carry four races from Cheltenham and one from Fontwell, all national hunt. TG4 is covering racing from Punchestown on Saturday at 12.45 pm and RTE2 on Sunday at 1 pm.
Last weekend’s festival at Navan proved very fruitful for local trainer Gordon Elliott and jockey Jack Kennedy, with Elliot training eight winners, five of them ridden by Kennedy.
On Saturday, they had three winners – Wingman, Bleu De Vassy and Found A Fifty – and Elliott also trained Down Memory Lane, ridden by Mark Walsh, and Whinney Hill, with Harry Swan aboard.
On Sunday, The Yellow Clay,
(News from local golf clubs)
Results from Sunday, 10th of November – 1st Lochlainn Conboy (39 points); 2nd Jonathan Egan (37 points); Gross: Charlie O’Donnell; 3rd: Liam Whyte 35.
LADIES AGM: The Ladies Club AGM took place in the clubhouse on Sunday, 17th of November. Outgoing Lady Captain Aisling Gaughran handed over to the new Lady Captain for 2025, Fiona Keenan.
There was also a prize-giving held for the ladies section Golfer of the Year and the 9-hole Golfer of the Year.
These Order of Merit competitions have two new trophies associated with them, named after two greatly missed members, Liz Dwyer and Sandra McCrann.
Jimmy Dwyer presented Regina McLoughlin with the Liz Dwyer Perpetual Claret Jug for Golfer of the Year and Jake McCrann presented Michelle Quinn with the Sandra McCrann Perpetual Cup for 9-hole Golfer of the Year.
CARRICK-ON-SHANNON
LADIES: The Ladies Club held their AGM last Friday night in the clubhouse and a very large crowd attended. The members thanked the outgoing officers for their hard work during the year and wished incoming officers the best of luck for 2025.
The following officers were elected – Captain: Frances Molloy; Vice-Captain: Monica Shannon; Past Captain: Anne Cox; Secretary: Nova Fariss; Handicap Secretary: Patricia O’Hara; Competition Secretary: Monica Shannon; Treasurer: Attracta O’Connor; Junior Convenor: Siobhan Talbot; PRO: Dolores Mulvey. Committee members: Helen O’Malley, Margaret Killoran, Mary Molloy, Marion Dolan, Melissa Collins, Jenny Bruen, Teresa Duignan.
GENTS: The Gents Club held their AGM
Tom Red
Stuzzikini and Better Days Ahead gave Elliott a treble, with Gavin Brouder riding Stuzzikini and Kennedy on the other two. Stuzzikini was one of nine horses Elliott ran in the Troytown Chase and gave him his 7th winner of the race.
At Cheltenham on Saturday, Ireland had to wait until the penultimate race, when Tony Martin, back after a five-month suspension, saddled Hamsiyann to win with Daniel King steering and Paddy Twomey’s Seo Linn with jockey Billy Lee made it an Irish double in the bumper. Unfortunately, the Irish drew a blank on Sunday.
The John Durkan Chase is the feature of Punchestown on Sunday with 11 declared, six of them trained by Willie Mullins. Seasoned chasers Martin Brassil’s Fastorslow and Willie Mullins’ Gallopin Des Champs meet again, each having three victories over the other. But they are being taken on by last season’s
last Friday night in the clubhouse and a very large crowd attended. The members thanked the outgoing officers for their hard work during the year and wished incoming officers the best of luck for 2025. The following officers were elected for 2025 – Club Captain: Hugh Gralton; President: Chris Lowe; Vice Captain: Frank Duffy; Secretary: Peadar Griffin; Junior Convenor: Paul O’Brien; Competitions Secretary: Tommy Taylor; Handicap Secretary: Allen Ffrench. Men’s Committee: Andy Connellan, Donal Collins, Gerry McDermott, Gordon Kavanagh, Brendan Boyle, Colin Slevin, Paul Reid.
AGM: The Parent Club AGM will take place on Friday, 22nd of November at 7 pm in the clubhouse. All members are requested to attend.
ROSCOMMON
AGM: The annual general meeting of the parent club was held on Sunday, 17th of November and the committee for 2025 is as follows: Rosemary O’Brien (Honorary Secretary), Paulie Hoare (Registrar), John McHale (Treasurer), Una Gleeson, Robert McConn, Enda Daly, Annie Timothy, Billy Donnellan. The new President for the year is Johnny Walker. It was also decided at the AGM that Thomas Higgins be awarded honorary life membership of the club in recognition of his selection as a full Irish international earlier this year. A presentation will be made to him in due course.
MEN’S AGM: The Men’s AGM was held on Friday, 15th of November. The Men’s committee for 2025 will be: Robert McConn (Captain), Padraig Cuddy (Vice Captain), Seamus O’Donghaile (Treasurer), David Kearney (Competitions Secretary), Brian Cleary (Secretary), Aidan Mulvihill (Youth Convenor), Seamus Duke, Ian Delaney, Aengus Oates, Johnny Connaughton, Jamie Granahan, Mark Kearney.
LADIES AGM: The Ladies’ AGM was held on Friday, 15th of November. The Ladies committee for 2025 will be: Una Gleeson (Captain), Una Clay (Vice Captain), Jacqui McCormack (Secretary), Teresa Duke (Treasurer), Marina Cribben, Teresa Ray, Catherine Waldron, Laarni Beattie, Michelle Daly, Anne Browne.
PARTY: A Christmas Party and presentation night will be held in the clubhouse on Saturday, 14th of December. More details to follow.
top novice Fact To File, who is the ante post favourite and trained by Mullins.
Another of Mullins’ entries Capodanno was supplemented for the Betfair Chase in Haydock at a cost of £7,200 on Monday and joins Shark Hanlon’s Hewick, Patrick Neville’s The Real Whacker, and Gavin Cromwell’s Limerick Lace. Fastorslow’s regular rider JJ Slevin is injured, and he will be ridden by top amateur Derek O’Connor.
On Saturday, the feature is the Morgiana Hurdle with ten runners headed by Mullins’ State Man, 2/5 favourite, seeking a hat-trick in the race. He is one of six trained by Mullins, Elliot has
BOYLE
RIGHT: Jimmy Dwyer presenting Regina McLoughlin with the Liz Dwyer Perpetual Claret Jug for Golfer of the Year at Boyle Golf Club.
BOTTOM: Jake McCrann presenting Michelle Quinn with the Sandra McCrann Perpetual Cup for 9-hole Golfer of the Year at Boyle Golf Club.
two and Oliver McKiernan and Andrew Slattery one each. Racing News
Last Wednesday week, new Meath-based trainer Stephen Thorpe opened his account at Dundalk with Sayifyouwill under newly-crowned champion apprentice James Ryan. He doubled his career tally when Donagh O’Connor rode Shoot To Kill to win later.
Alphonse Le Grande, trained in Ireland by Cathy O’Leary (Tony Martin’s sister), has been reinstated as the winner of last month’s Cesarewitch following an appeal hearing on this day week.
Apprentice jockey Jamie Pow-
Glenamaddy Golf Society
Glenamaddy Golf Society had their final outing of the season to Castlerea Golf Club on the 28th of October last. There was a large turnout and the excellent weather for the time of year made the day very enjoyable.
A big thank you to the Castlerea Golf Club ladies for making us so welcome with their tea, coffee and refreshments. Back in the clubhouse, everyone once again was looked after very well.
Captain Paul Gaughan presented the prizes. Winner on the day was Brendan Burke with 37 pts. Tom O’Grady was second with 35 pts, and Paul Gaughan 3rd with 35 pts. In making the presentations, Paul also presented Brendan Burke with the Player of the Year award (the Fr Glynn Memorial Cup).
He went on to thank everybody who came out during the year and made his season as captain very satisfying.
John Molloy (PRO) thanked all the committee for keeping the show on the road and Liz and Louie for looking after prizes. He thanked Paul for taking the captaincy and Peter Shields for accepting the role of president. He also thanked Garvey’s, Ballintubber and West-Bake in Glenamaddy for their sponsorship and finally, Tommy Murray, our Castlerea member, for all his help. He finished by saying the season was very enjoyable and by looking forward to 2025.
ell was considered to have used his whip ten times in the closing stages and was referred to the Whip Review Committee. Due to the value of the race and finding Powell had used his whip ten times the Whip Review Committee awarded the race to Manxman, who had been beaten by a nose. However, connections appealed that decision, as did Powell, who had been handed a 28-day suspension and an independent British Horseracing Authority disciplinary panel concluded that one of Powell’s strikes was not intentional, as his final contact with the horse was made moving his whip from one hand to the other.
Round 6 darts this Friday
The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League continued last weekend. Round 5 results were as follows: An Bothar Rua 4 Flanagan’s 5 (16 to 15 on legs); McDermott’s 9 Tower Bar 0 (24 to 3 on legs); Cosy Bar 2 Holly Tree 7 (9 to 20 on legs); Sportsman’s 3 Village Inn 6 (14 to 19 on legs); Hollywood 4 Dalton’s 5 (13 to 17 on legs). Round 6 fixtures this Friday (22nd of November) are: Village Inn v Holly Tree; Tower Bar v Cosy Bar; Dalton’s v McDermott’s; Flanagan’s v Hollywood; Sportsman’s v An Bothar Rua.
KEARNEY CUP: The annual John Kearney Memorial Darts Competition will be held on Sunday, 1st of December in Flanagan’s Pub, Castleplunkett. Names are to be in by 4.30 pm with the draw at 5 pm. This competition is limited to Roscommon county team eligible players or county league registered players only. Money in-Money out plus sponsorship and trophies. €10 entry for men and ladies (half price for youths). There will be a prize for highest checkout. Refreshments served on the day and a raffle will be held in aid of Croí, with an extensive range of spot prizes. All are welcome to what will be a highly entertaining day of darts.
YOUTHS ACADEMY: Roscommon Youths Darts Academy continued last Saturday morning with a big turnout of young players. Boys and girls from 8 to 17 years of age were in attendance, with the standard showing Roscommon darts is in a very healthy place. Next meet-up will be on Saturday, 30th of November, with a start time of 10 am. Any boy or girl aged between 8 and 17 is very welcome to join. Enquiries to Martina on 086 3691604, or Tommy on 086 1088798.
Stuzzikini and Gavin Brouder, blue cap, clears the last with Lucid Dreams and Danny Mullins.
Creggs RFC Report
THE GAIN LINE
Women’s team maintain winning ways
Well done to Creggs senior women who won for the second week in a row on the road on Sunday with a 29-17 victory over the joined clubs of OLBC & Corinthians in Galway. Two first-half tries and one conversion had Creggs 12-7 up at the break. A further two second-half tries had them 24-12 up and then a super finish by Stacey Corbally had Creggs 29-12 up but a great last 20 minutes by OLBC/Corinthians saw them get in for try and have the better of territory leaving the final score at 29-17 to Creggs.
Well done to Sabina Egan who picked up the ‘Thumbs up award’ for last week’s game v Westport and to Gabrielle Kilcommons who picked it up at this game.
Big game at home next Sunday v Sligo.
GIRLS U-18s: Well done to Creggs U-18 girls on their victory on Friday night over the joint clubs of Westport RFC & Castlebar RFC in the U-18 Girls League, played on Creggs 4G pitch under lights in great conditions. Tries from Joelah Okambawa, Siofra Hession, Jemima Adams Verling, Emily Kelly and Ciara Corrigan and conversions from Siofra Hession (3) and Ciara Corrigan (2) ensured a big win. Well done girls, keep the positivity going.
BOYS U-17s: Creggs U-17s had a must-win home game against Corinthians to keep their chances alive in the U-17 League last Sunday afternoon. The local side proved strong enough to win by 3326. The final score does not really reflect what a wonderful comeback was achieved by Creggs. Corinthians had raced into a 14-0 lead by twelve minutes in. By fifteen minutes Corinthians had added another 7 points to lead 21-0.The local boys looked shell-shocked and faced a mammoth task to get back into this game, let alone win it. After some stern words by the coaches Creggs started to show some signs of the type of rugby they can play and became competitive again. It was Cian Trimble, the Creggs second centre who started the ball rolling. Trimble put his name on the scoresheet when he went over in the corner to leave the score 21-5 (the last score of the first half). Creggs started the second half quickly and within two minutes Cian Trimble was in again for a try. There was an urgent feel about the Creggs team and a belief that this game was far from being over. A little bump occurred though when Corinthians extended their lead to 26-12 in the 43rd minute. Trimble wasn’t finished and scored again bringing the score to 26-19 with the aid of a Kaylum Curran conversion. There was a nervous feel to the Corinthians play with pressure from the Creggs pack and a further try from Jack Finn after a great carry from James Trundle. With ten minutes to play and the game in the balance it was that man again Cian Trimble scoring his fourth of the day, brilliantly converted by Curran to push it to a onescore game. With four minutes on the clock and Corinthians on the ball a win was in sight provided they managed the last few minutes well. This Creggs team showed great character in sticking to their task. Players of note were Ruari Webb and Cian Kiernan. This win pushes three teams on 12 points together in the league with one game left to play. The win was a great achievement coming back from being 21 points down but will mean very little if they can’t get a win away to Sligo next Sunday. A win should see the Creggs team top the group and hopefully earn a place in the league semi-final.
BOYS U-14s: Creggs U-14s made the long trip to Heffernan Park in Ballina on Saturday evening. The team were in fine form after the win last week and continued that form in this game running in nine tries in total.
Creggs scored first after some great work by the team to get into a scoring position where Ryan Sharkey crashed over. Soon after Ballina struck
back with a very well-taken try after their number 8 split the Creggs defence and allowed Ballina to touch down in the corner and a super sideline conversion tied things up. From here Creggs took the game on and pushed clear. Harry Feeley touching down after a quick tap and go outside the 22 was first before Niall Kelly touched down. Next was Harry Feeley who broke tackles at halfway to finish under the posts. Next was a try for Charlie Madden who made a super defensive tackle causing a turnover and got back on his feet to support Harry Trimble and score out wide. Ballina struck back but Creggs added one more before half-time through Harry Feeley again. The second half started with Ballina putting massive pressure on Creggs who had made a number of changes at the break. However, Creggs stood strong and worked the ball upfield and the try of the game came from brilliant back work with Harry Trimble finding Callum Kilcommons who offloaded to Eoin Callaghan who broke two tackles before putting Jonah Harrington in for his first try for the club. Shortly after Callum Kilcommons wrapped up the Creggs scoring when a good move was finished off the back of a 5 metre scrum. Ballina added two late tries to leave the final score at Creggs 57 Ballina 24. Another great squad performance from this young team. They now sit joint second with two games to play and have a tough task at home next Sunday against Carrick-on-Shannon.
GIRLS U-14s: Creggs U-14 girls were out in force on Saturday afternoon against Corinthians in Creggs. The girls started the game well with some good attacking play. Coming into half-time the girls were up on the scoreboard and looking dominant. The second half was a bit tougher but
the team all put in their fair share of effort and came away with a brilliant win from a tough game. Tries on the day were scored by Clodagh Finneran and Kayla Walsh with Darcy Thorose kicking the conversions. Well done to all the girls who are making this team a very competitive unit.
CONGRATULATIONS: Congrats to Creggs RFC players who played with Connacht U-17s v Clongowes Wood, winning 14-12. Kaylum Curran and Cian Kiernan played while the injured Dan Kelly attended as support for his team colleagues.
INTERPRO: Connacht Eagles played Leinster ‘A’ in the first round of the ‘A’ Interpro cup in Creggs. This drew a big crowd. Leinster won 287. The score doesn’t really reflect the commitment Connacht played with.
Five internationals played in the game and the sideline observers included South African World Cup winning coach Jacques Nienabar, Leo Cullen (Leinster Head Coach) and Sean O’Brien (exIreland international) and Lion, and Eric Elwood (also ex-Ireland international). Leo Cullen spoke highly of the facilities at Creggs RFC equating them to the best he has seen anywhere.
LOTTO: The club lotto jackpot was not won and now moves to €3000 this weekend. This week’s lucky dip winner was Elizabeth Feeley.
BOOK LAUNCH: On Saturday evening the new building was filled with enthusiastic visitors for the launch of the club’s 50th Anniversary Book. (See Paul Healy’s report on opposite page).
Guest speakers included the President of the IRFU Declan Madden, President of Connacht Rugby Jimmy Staunton and Eric Elwood, who officially launched the book.
The guests were welcomed by Creggs RFC President, Dave Purcell who congratulated the book Editor, Pauline Scott for her huge input and work over the last year in compiling the numerous stories and photos within the book.
He also thanked Adrian Leddy who was Chairperson of the Book Committee, ably assisted by Sean Brandon. Former Creggs player Denis Buckley also attended and was presented with a gift from the club to celebrate his 250th professional rugby cap with Connacht Rugby.
Pictured are Cian Kiernan and Kaylum Curran who played with Connacht U-17s against Clongowes Wood, with the injured Dan Kelly also present to offer support.
The Creggs women’s team… won again.
Creggs Girls U-18s, who played Westport.
Eric Elwood launches history of Creggs RFC’s first 50 years!
< PAUL HEALY
There was a huge crowd at the launch of Creggs Rugby Club’s 50th anniversary book, held in the fabulous new community room in the clubhouse last Saturday night.
Formally launching the book – a stunning, 563page publication – former Irish international Eric Elwood paid tribute to everyone involved in the Creggs Rugby Club success story over the decades. Mr Elwood, currently the Connacht Rugby Academy Manager, described the new facilities at Creggs – the club now has four pitches, a walkway, new gym and clubhouse and dressing rooms – as “a joy”.
The Guest of Honour recalled his friendship with many Creggs stalwarts over the years, with Mr Elwood name-checking Mike Ward, Ger Dowd, Frank Pettit, Dr Joe Daly and Adrian Leddy, while acknowledging there were many, many more key figures who had played their part in the club’s remarkable journey to date.
Concluding, he thanked Creggs Rugby Club (their facilities are often availed of by Connacht Rugby teams) on behalf of Connacht Rugby. Remarking that rugby is “all about people” Mr Elwood spoke
in admiration of the development of such fabulous facilities at the club and said it will mean young players (of the present and future) can now “live their dream on their own doorstep”.
Amongst the special guests were Declan Madden, President of the IRFU and Jimmy Staunton, President of Connacht Rugby.
Master of Ceremonies on the night was Adrian Leddy, Chairperson of the Creggs History Book Committee. Current Creggs RFC President Dave Purcell also addressed guests.
During the formal proceedings a presentation was made to former Creggs player Denis Buckley in recognition of him recently winning a 250th cap for Connacht. Congratulating Creggs on the 50th anniversary milestone, Mr Buckley said the club has had a huge impact on his life since his very first training session there (in circa 1999). He also lavished praise on the “incredible facilities” and ongoing development of the club on and off the field of play.
Jimmy Staunton, President of Connacht Rugby, said Creggs were always formidable opposition on the pitch and had now (in recent times) unveiled “world class” facilities.
Both Mr Staunton and IRFU President Declan
Praise for book editor Pauline and her team
< PAUL HEALY
Master of Ceremonies Adrian Leddy hailed the input of Pauline Scott as he reflected on the mammoth publication that documents the 50-year history of Creggs Rugby Club.
“We’d be totally lost without her” Mr Leddy said of Ms Scott, who edited ‘Creggs RFC: 50 years’. The book was published by Hero Books, run by former Meath GAA football star Liam Hayes. Praising the phenomenal dedication and work ethic of Pauline Scott on compiling the content for the book over the past year, Mr Leddy said it was a huge effort on her part. The club was indebted to Pauline. He also acknowledged the great assistance provided to Pauline by “her assistant”, Sean Brandon, whose records of
praised Creggs RFC on the magnificent facilities, its proud history, the progress of its many teams, and on the publication of the magnificent book being launched on the night.
The various speakers alluded to the hugely positive role played by the club within the community and paid tribute to all who have contributed to this remarkable success story over the decades.
During his contribution, Master of Ceremonies
Adrian Leddy thanked the sponsors of Creggs Rugby Club for their ongoing support and also acknowledged the input of all the coaches at the club. He also thanked the local community for the great support provided over the years.
Update on pre-Christmas deliveries
The publisher of the Creggs RFC history has given the club a window whereby people can order books which will be available for collection before Christmas. These orders will be (as before)… pre-pay only!
So if you would like to gift this fabulous publication for Christmas or would just like a copy yourself, please contact Ray on 086 8036533 or Jimmy on 087 2460542. Orders must be submitted before this SUNDAY, the 24rd of November. Thank you.
past games was of huge significance during the project.
Mr Leddy thanked the various contributors to the book, and encouraged people to purchase copies and ensure that Creggs people living abroad receive a copy.
Pauline Scott, who edited the club history, gave a detailed account of the process involved in gathering recollections, thanking the many people who had agreed to be interviewed and/or contributed articles. She extended her appreciation to committee colleague Sean Brandon whose meticulous records had been central to the success of the project, and also acknowledged the support and voluntary work of all members of the history book committee, chaired by Adrian Leddy.
Madden
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Dave Purcell (President, Creggs RFC), Peter Daly (Creggs RFC), Josephine Feehily (Connacht and IRFU committee member), Gerry Casey (IRFU), and Jimmy Staunton (President, Connacht Rugby). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Mike Callaghan, Pauline Scott (editor of the publication), and Gerry Connolly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Creggs Rugby Club 50th Anniversary book launch at Creggs Rugby Club on Saturday evening were Dave Purcell (Creggs RFC President), Declan Madden (President, IRFU), Eric Elwood and Adrian Leddy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Elphin bidding to make history
< SEAMUS DUKE
Elphin will bid to become the only Roscommon club to have won the Connacht Intermediate football Championship twice when they take on Mayo’s Crossmolina in Dr Hyde Park on Sunday. Roscommon clubs have a very good record in this competition since it started in 2004 with Elphin winning the provincial title in its first year of existence, defeating Cortoon Shamrock’s of Galway by 1-10 to 0-8. Since then, Western Gaels, St Croan’s, Michael Glaveys, St Faithleach’s and Castlerea St Kevin’s have all tasted provincial glory in this competition.
So what are the prospects for Sunday’s game?
The reality is that Crossmolina will provide a huge challenge for Nigel Dineen’s men in Dr Hyde Park.
The Mayo club have a storied history behind them. They are the holders of seven Mayo senior football championships (the last in 2006), an All-Ireland SFC title in 2001, and three Connacht club SFC titles (1999, 2000, 2002) but have fallen on harder times in recent years. They were relegated from the Mayo SFC in 2018 but are back in the senior ranks following their championship win this year when they defeated Moy Davitts after a replay.
In the Connacht semi-final Crossmolina defeated Galway champions St Michael’s by 2-13 to 1-7. They have a number of very talented players including Mayo senior stars Jordan Flynn, Conor Loftus and Fionán Duffy. They will probably come into the match as favourites.
But Elphin will relish this challenge. Their semifinal win against Eastern Harps was not a match that will live long in the memory, but semi-finals are for winning, and Elphin found a way in the end and will come in to this decider quietly confident.
The Roscommon champions are unbeaten and will be relying on the players who have been magnificent for them in this championship so far. Aaron Brady will seek to lead from between the posts. On his day he is a top class goalkeeper and his performance will be very important to Elphin’s chances.
In defence Niall Higgins will once again have a major role to play. I expect that he could well be picking up the Deel Rovers danger man Fionán Duffy. Martin McCaffrey will also have a pivotal role to play as he leads the team from defence and has been excellent all year.
The Elphin midfield partnership will have a huge task on Sunday against Jordan Flynn and Darragh Syron. Elphin will hope that Luke Mollohan will be
Dineen: ‘We need to produce
Nigel Dineen is an old hand when it comes to preparing for a big game. His many years playing for the Roscommon senior team and later managing at county and club level means he will relish the chance that his side has in the Connacht Club IFC final this weekend against Mayo champions Crossmolina.
The fact that the semi-final against Eastern Harps last weekend was a poor game doesn’t bother the Elphin manager one little bit.
“Semi-finals are all about winning, and while the match might not have been great, we got over the line – and that’s by far the most important thing. We wanted to be in the final and we are there now and the match against Crossmolina is a different day altogether”.
Dineen says his squad have emerged from the semi-final with no injuries.
“It was a tough game but everyone is
okay. Luke Mollaghan is still doubtful with an injury but he has had that for a couple of weeks. But the mood in the camp is good and we are looking forward to the final”.
The Elphin manager says that Crossmolina will provide a huge test for his side.
“We are under no illusions about Crossmolina. They are a quality side and they won their semi-final easily so they will come in to the final confident. But it’s a new day for both sides and what we need is for our lads to put in a strong performance”.
Playing the final in Dr Hyde Park is also a boost to Elphin, according to Dineen.
“We are delighted to have the game in the Hyde. It’s a big boost to have it on home soil with the home crowd behind us. The lads are looking forward to the game and hopefully we can produce our best football” he said.
“It’s great to be in a provincial final and if we play to our potential we will give it a serious rattle” he concluded.
fit to partner Nessan Lenehan in the engine room. If he is not fit to play, then Conor Lenehan and Shane Killoran are the options open to manager Nigel Dineen.
Up front, Shane Killoran and Fintan Cregg will once again lead the line. Conor Loftus will probably be detailed to mark Killoran, while talisman Fintan Cregg is likely to be picked up by Kevin Mulhern. Killoran and Cregg will once again have crucial roles to play for the Roscommon champions. Playing at Dr Hyde Park is a good advantage for Elphin and they are sure to have a big vocal crowd there to cheer them on. They will be hoping to record their third big championship win in a row on Sunday in the Hyde. The match-ups on both sides will be fascinating as managers Nigel Dineen and Brian Benson pit their wits against each other. The fact that Elphin come into this final unbeaten and as underdogs gives them a great chance. I am certainly not ruling out an Elphin win but it is hard to resist the case for the Mayo side.
Prediction: Crossmolina.
Elphin manager Nigel Dineen… pictured at last weekend’s Connacht Club IFC semi-final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
John Finnerty in action for Elphin in last weekend’s Connacht Club IFC semi-final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Elphin goalkeeper Aaron Brady in action against Mohill last weekend. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Elphin hold nerve to advance to Connacht final
AIB Connacht Club IFC semi-final Elphin 0-9 Eastern Harps 0-7
< KEVIN EGAN
On the weekend that Ireland lost a much-loved comedian and actor in Jon Kenny, his famous scene in D’Unbelievables where he and Pat Shortt play the roles of rural gardaí doing ‘Crimebusters’ – their own version of Crimecall, or Garda Patrol to readers of a certain vintage – came to mind.
In the scene, the two guards talk about a robbery where “the assailants got in through a side window and proceeded to clean out the house”, which of course led to the admonition of the general public since the window was left open.
So, the infamous phrase – “Ye can’t be doing that, lads” – was born.
On Saturday afternoon in Dr Hyde Park, Elphin were the better team in their clash with Eastern Harps, but they left the side window open, the front door unlocked, and the valuables on full view by making a plethora of unforced errors over the course of the hour, errors that could easily have put paid to their prospects of securing a place in this Sunday’s Connacht final.
In the end, modern football tactics of holding onto possession, patiently waiting to probe an opening
and all those similar things went out the window, and the contest boiled down to three lobbed balls into a packed Elphin goalmouth.
The first ended with Ciarán Dorrian getting a toe-poke on one shot that was deflected out over the end line, then from the resultant 45, Shawn O’Hara got a clean contact with his right boot, only for three Elphin defenders to smother it between them.
Then, with the very last attack of the game, Seán Bruen floated the ball into the large parallelogram from the right wing and it was Conor Walsh who got a clean fist on it, only to send his strike about a yard wide of Aaron Brady’s near post.
On the restart, the final whistle sounded and Elphin had stumbled, rather than surged, into a provincial final.
There was a surge in the early stages when good points from Shane Killoran and Gerry Cregg helped them into an 0-3 to 0-1 lead with just six minutes played.
Eastern Harps deployed Dylan Walsh as a sweeper and played Matt Henry as the main target player up front, and Henry performed the role very effectively, with three different Elphin defenders taking on the
challenge of trying to curtail his influence at various stages.
Still he kicked one point himself and played a key role in three more as the Harps took an 0-6 to 0-5 lead into the break, with the majority of Elphin attacks breaking down because of a series of unforced errors, ranging from sloppy handpasses to misplaced kicks over 20 or 30 metres that just missed the target and turned over possession.
A somewhat harsh call to penalise Michael Clarke for what looked like a good shoulder on Gerry Cregg allowed Fintan Cregg to tie up the scores early in the second half, and the teams traded points to leave the contest finely poised at 0-7 each with just six minutes gone in the second half.
After watching 14 scores in the first 36 minutes, we then saw two more in the next 28 or so, both within 60 seconds of each other.
For the majority of this time Elphin continued to enjoy much more possession and they did push forward, but poor execution and poor decision-making continued to haunt them, though Harps too were guilty of failing to take advantage of the few opportunities that came their way.
Eventually the pressure told as a skied kick from Evan Gunn was kept in play and recycled to Damien Cregg, who swept the ball over from 30 metres out and a minute later, Gunn slipped the ball to Killoran, who had the composure to clip the ball over the black spot just before two Eastern Harps defenders converged on him.
So a final awaits, against a much stronger Crossmolina team. Suffice to say that the message in Orchard Park this week will be that when it comes to cheap turnovers and failing to punish a good team like the North Mayo side – “ye can’t be doing that, lads, ye can’t be doing that”.
Elphin: Aaron Brady (02, 45s); Gavin Murray, Enda Killoran, Alex Gleeson; Niall Higgins, Martin McCaffrey, Shane Beirne; Shane Killoran (0-2), Conor Lenehan; Damien Cregg (0-1), Nessan Lenehan, Gerry Cregg (0-1); Evan Gunn, Fintan Cregg (0-2f), John Finnerty (0-1f). Sub used: John Rattigan for Gleeson (half-time), Rossa Brennan Kelly for D Cregg (52), Luke Mollahan for G Cregg (57).
Eastern Harps: Alan Davey; James Soden, David Lyons, Cian Higgins; James Kiernan,
Ronan Mulligan (0-1), Tomás Taheny; Michael Clarke (0-1), Conor Walsh; Donal Mitchell, Dylan Walsh, Shawn O’Hara (0-1); C. Hunt (03, 0-1f), Shane O’Grady, Matt Henry (0-1). Subs used: Ciarán Dorrian for Mitchell (43), Cian Carty for O’Grady (47), Seán Bruen for Henry (57). Referee: Paul Lydon (Mayo).
STAT ATTACK
Red cards: 0 Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: Elphin 1 (Gunn); Eastern Harps 1 (Hunt) Wides: Elphin 3; Eastern Harps 7 Man of the Match: Niall Higgins
and Eastern Harps.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell Evan
Canning: ‘We had a lot to say at half-time!’
< SEAMUS DUKE
Padraig Pearses’ manager Frank Canning was a happy man as he reflected on another very good win for his side. That said, he wasn’t impressed with what he had seen in what was a very dour first half which yielded just a total of five scores between the two teams. Canning told the Roscommon People that he had plenty to say to his charges at half-time.
“We had a lot to say at half-time, that’s the reality of it. It was 0-3 to 0-2, and a very poor standard from both sides. Mohill just camped at home and I’m sure for the general public that give out about ‘puke’ football, that’s what it was in the first half”.
Canning agreed that the second half was much better.
“In the second half it was just about trying to get a couple of scores on the board and if we could get two or three ahead, then they would have known that they would have had to come out and chase the game a bit.
“Once we got the few scores it did open up, and there were some real quality scores in the second half. We played some lovely football, but it had everything to do with us getting ahead, so they had no choice but to come out, which made it a better spectacle.
“It’s only a semi-final today, but we’re happy to be into the final and it doesn’t matter how you get there”.
O’Hara rues misses
Mohill manager Eamonn O’Hara, a Sligo GAA legend, didn’t mince his words after the game, particularly bemoaning missed chances throughout the match.
“We just didn’t take the chances when they came our way” he said, noting that had they taken even a few of them, it would have given the Mohill players huge confidence.
Had they taken them, he said, “it puts a bit of pressure on Pearses and takes away from their game plan”.
He said that had Mohill been able to unsettle Pearses, “some of their young fellas might start taking the ball into tackles”.
He continued: “We were just trying to be part of it throughout so that they (Pearses’ players) would start doing individual things, but it wasn’t to be”.
O’Hara went on to colourfully concede that having failed to exert the desired pressure on Pearses, “we find ourselves after getting our arses handed to us on a plate”.
The Mohill manager paid tribute to a number of the opposition team.
“Niall (Daly) got on a lot of ball and was very influential at midfield and his brother Conor kicked a couple of very good scores as well. There were a lot of good men there. We took care of (Paul) Carey for long periods, but then when the game was gone away, he kicked a couple of ‘worldies’.
“A lot of things worked for us” the Mohill manager added, before concluding that it had been difficult going for the Leitrim champions.
St Barry’s excellent year came to a halt in Markievicz Park last Saturday when they were well beaten by Sligo champions Ballymote who turned in an excellent second-half display to power into the provincial semi-finals.
The Roscommon champions more than held their own in a dour and lowscoring first half at the end of which the home side were just a point ahead, 0-4 to 0-3.
Ballymote were a different proposition on the re-start. They scored 1-2 within the opening two minutes of the half and that was a margin that St Barry’s were not able to bridge subsequently.
Zak O’Dowd was the scorer of the Ballymote goal. A fortunate second goal at the end of the game followed and the 13-point winning margin was unfair on the Roscommon champions in the final analysis.
Trevor Murtagh, Cillian Campbell, Michael Lavin and sub David Keenan did well for St Barry’s. It wasn’t their day, but that memorable win in the Roscommon junior final lives on as a
great achievement and a memory that will be cherished and celebrated.
Ballymote: Cian Kilcoyne; Shane Langton (0-1, free), Michael Doddy, Shane Raftery; Michael Lavin (03), Jack Lavin (0-1), Conor Finn; Luke Hogge, Michael Raftery; Oisin Brennan (0-3), Zak O’Dowd (13), Aaron Brennan (0-2); Thomas Sweeney, Dermot McTiernan, Niall Colsh (0-3). Subs: Malachy Healy (10) for McTiernan (h/t), Ronan Keenan for Raftery (45), Paul Mullin for Colsh (57), Colin Byrne for A Brennan (59), Sean Stagg for O Brennan (61).
Subs: Kyle Cawley (0-1) for Conroy (h/t), David Keenan for Burke (38), Ciaran McVeigh for Leavy (42), Conor Mulrennan for Quinn (51).
Referee: John Glavey (Mayo).
Aidan O’Boyle (in action against Clann na nGael in the recent county final) scored a point for St Barry’s in their defeat to Ballymote last weekend. File pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Padraig Pearses manager Frank Canning pictured on the sideline last Sunday. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
SportsPeople
Pearses advance to final
AIB Connacht Club SFC semi-final
Padraig Pearses 0-13 Mohill 0-3
< SEAMUS DUKE
A superb second-half display saw Padraig Pearses sweep into the provincial decider in this Connacht Club SFC semi-final played in damp and wet conditions in front of a big crowd in Ballinamore last Sunday.
It may have taken Pearses a while to get motoring against a potentially difficult opponent, but once they got all aspects of their game going they won easily and were very impressive in doing so.
A fifth clean sheet in a row confirms this was another excellent defensive outing. Once the Roscommon champions moved the ball quickly into attack in that second half they were equally as effective going forward. The first half featured an ultracautious approach from both sides and was a poor spectacle. Mohill were determined not to give Pearses time and space on the ball and that worked for long periods with both teams moving the ball laterally and backwards.
We saw just one score in the first quarter when Keith Beirne pointed a 30-metre free for the home side. Indeed Mohill did get in on goal after 12 minutes but Sean Harkin lost possession and the chance was squandered. It took Pearses 18 minutes to register a
score but when it came it was a beauty from Ronan Daly. Just 90 seconds later Gavin Downey and Jack Tumulty combined to set up the same player (Daly) for his second score.
Conor Ryan’s super catch and point from a ‘mark’ in the 26th minute extended Pearses’ lead. But the margin was only one at the break after Beirne landed a long-range free in the 29th minute. Half-time score: Pearses 0-3 Mohill 0-2.
It was pretty evident that the Pearses backroom team had plenty to say at the break and the Roscommon champions were a different side on the resumption. They set about their task with far more urgency and it quickly paid dividends.
Ronan Daly was having a superb game. He pointed again in the 32nd minute with a super score from play. There was respite for Mohill when Evan Harkin got what would prove to be their only point from play four minutes later. With Conor Daly, Niall Daly, Conor Ryan and Caelim Keogh in dominant form, Pearses began to pull away.
Points from Conor Daly (after an excellent turnover won by Paul Carey) and a long-range free from Carey opened up a three-point gap (0-6 to 0-3) by the 40th minute.
Then two incidents within a minute closed the door on any chance that Mohill may have had of causing an upset.
In the 41st minute Conor Quinn got in on the Pearses goal but Paul Whelan made a super block. Just 40 seconds later corner-back David Mitchell received his second yellow
card. Whatever chance the Leitrim champions had with 15 men they were under severe pressure with 14. And so it proved, Pearses taking full advantage.
Three points in four minutes from Conor Daly (a magnificent effort), Declan Kenny and Jack Tumulty, made it 0-10 to 0-3 by the 50th minute. It was game over at that stage.
Further scores from Kenny, Tumulty and Carey, all from play, completed an easy win for Frank Canning’s side and after a slow start the Roscommon champions can be well pleased with what was another dominant display.
Davy Murray, Niall Carty, Caelim Keogh, Conor Ryan, Niall Daly and Declan Kenny were very impressive for Pearses, while their star player was Ronan Daly, who excelled throughout and kicked four top class points on the day. Pearses scored 0-11 from play, which was another indication of their dominance, especially in that second half.
Next up is a Connacht final date with the Sligo champions Coolera-Strandhill in Markievicz Park on Sunday week, 1st of December.
On their form against Corofin and Mohill, Pearses will go into that game as the deserved favourites to land a second provincial title in three years. They certainly have the team and the game plan to do it.
Padraig Pearses: Paul Whelan; Gavin Downey, Niall Carty, David Murray; Declan Kenny (0-2), Caelim Keogh, Conor Harley; Conor Ryan (0-1, mark), Niall Daly; Conor Daly (0-2), Ronan Daly (0-4), Adam McGreal; Sean Canning, Paul Carey (0-2, 1 free), Jack
Tumulty (0-2). Subs: Conor Lohan for Harley (42), Eoin Colleran for Canning (42), Jack Nevin for McGreal (52), Mark Richardson for Downey (58), Shane Carty for Colleran (60).
Mohill: Padraig Tighe; James Mitchell, Sean Harkin, Ryan Bohan; David Mitchell, Shane Quinn, Jack Rowley; Conor Quinn, Domhnaill Flynn; Evan Harkin (0-1), Keith Keegan, Tadhg Mulligan; Jordan Reynolds, Keith Beirne (0-2, frees), Fiachra McGuinness. Subs: Ronan Gordon for McGuinness (51), Caillin Canning for S Quinn (blood), Caillin Canning for Mulligan (58), Donal Duignan for S Harkin (61), Oscar Reynolds for S Quinn (63). Referee: James Molloy (Galway).
STAT ATTACK
Wides:
Padraig Pearses 4 (2, first half); Mohill 4 (3, first half) Red cards: Padraig Pearses 0; Mohill 1 (David Mitchell 41) Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: Padraig Pearses 2 (Conor Lohan, Jack Tumulty); Mohill 3 (David Mitchell 2, Domhnaill Flynn)
Attendance:
Approx. 2,500
Man of the Match: Ronan Daly
(Padraig Pearses)
Sean Canning is surrounded by three opponents during this phase of play in last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final in which Padraig Pearses defeated Mohill.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Padraig Pearses’ powerhouse Niall Daly fends off Keith Keegan’s tackle during last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final in which the Roscommon champions defeated Mohill. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
