22 October 2021 Roscommon People

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The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

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22 October 2021

The Local Paper

as much as you can .....

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Athleague manager Padraig Mannion (left) leads the celebrations at the final whistle in Sunday’s County Senior Hurling Final. Athleague defeated Tremane by 3-12 to 0-15. See inside. Photo: Mick McCormack

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1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

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02

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

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AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie LOCAL PROPERTY TAX

I received a letter from Revenue a few weeks ago about Local Property Tax and I have no idea what to do with it. What is it all this about? Do I need an exact valuation for my property from an auctioneer?

Local Property Tax (LPT) is a tax we all pay on our homes. It was introduced in 2013 and back then we all placed values on our homes. Revenue is now asking us to update the value of our homes within their new bands. Auctioneer valuations are not necessary if you can reasonably determine the value of your home within the new bands.

There are 20 price bands in the new LPT system. The lowest band covers houses worth between €100,000 to €200,000, where owners will be charged an annual basic rate fee of €90. Band 2 covers houses valued between €200,001 to €262,500 where owners will pay €225 LPT. Band 3 covers houses valued between €262,501 to €350,000 where owners will pay €315 LPT. Band 4 covers houses valued between €350,000 to €437,500 where owners will pay €405 LPT. At the higher end of the market, people with homes valued at more than €1.75 million will pay at least €2,830 each year. Each Local Authority may adjust this basic rate and charge an extra amount, e.g., Roscommon and Longford County Councils have adjusted the basic rate by 15%.

Revenue letters issued to homeowners set out an estimated LPT. Homeowners will replace this estimate with their own property valuation (within the new LPT bands) when they file their new LPT return.

The deadline for submitting a new valuation is November 7th. If a homeowner does not submit a return

by November 7th, Revenue will collect their estimated LPT amount and will continue to seek submission of a self-assessed valuation, which the homeowner is obliged to submit.

Revenue Commissioners has indicated that it will not contest valuations one band lower than its own guidance in the online tool but will review self-assessments and challenge those it disagrees with.

Homes adapted for a person with a disability and also those homes confirmed to be affected by pyrite, mica or other defective concrete blocks are eligible for LPT exemptions. However, even if your property is eligible for an exemption, you are still required to submit a valuation to Revenue.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

That old charmer...boldly going where no man has gone before!

Wow! It’s out of this world!

What? The price of fuel?

No! That guy...I can’t believe what he’s up to now! He NEVER ceases to amaze me!

Mattie McGrath, is it? Is it Deputy Mattie McGrath? What’s he gone and done now?

CYCLING ACCIDENT No! The old guy with the grin and the magical charm...

Okay, it’s not If you wereso involved in aMattie cyclingMcGrath then...

I mean, he’s kind of gone too far this accident contact time...especially Byrne Carolanat his age! He’s just gone TOO FAR! Cunningham Solicitors So it IS Mattie McGrath?

It’s actually out of this world!

Yeah, you said!

He’s pushing the limits, he’s like Superman!

So it’s definitely NOT Mattie McGrath...

When I first saw him, his whole thing was fiction...

So it IS Mattie McGrath?

He used to talk about exploring strange new worlds...

Well I know for a fact that he went on constituency tours with the HealyRaes...

He talked of boldly going where no man has gone before...

So it IS Mattie! He taunts and rises Leo and Stephen Donnelly and the two Simons like NOBODY ELSE! Will you stop talking about Mattie McGrath! I’m talking about yer man...he’s out of this world! He’s gone from the safety of everything he’s ever known to a new place, to the darkness, to the unknown!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to watch the title sequence of the original Star Trek on YouTube)

Is it Marc MacSharry? Didn’t he leave Fianna Fáil? Am I getting warm?

NO! (They pause – briefly – to recite some of Marc and Mattie’s greatest sayings) Don’t you follow the news?

Yeah...

Did you not see him...spinning like crazy...

Spinning like crazy? Ah, it’s Leo! Is it Leo? No, not political spin! I’m talking about William Shatner...spinning around in space!

Sunday’s County Senior Hurling final in Athleague was a great occasion, with a huge crowd enjoying a very good local derby, in which Athleague triumphed over Tremane. This weekend the spotlight switches to St Dominic’s v St Faithleach’s in the County Intermediate Fooball Final.

What we didn’t like…

Yet again there are anomalies, grey areas and contradictions in a Government plan on reopening society. A significant easing of Covid-19 restrictions was announced on Tuesday, but some sectors – notably nightclub owners and publicans – are frustrated at a lack of clarity, and with some of the continued measures.

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

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

Let’s get back down to earth! What a great win for Athleague!

Huh? The hurling...

Oh yeah, it was a cracker. Hard luck to Tremane, but Athleague deserved it.

And Rory’s back!

Yes, what a great win! 25 under! Amazing!

And the Creggs Harvest Festival is back!

Okay! That’s great too!

And nightclubs are back!

Yeah, or even Woo hoo! Eh...

Yeah?

Is William Shatner back?

Yes, of course he’s back! It all went well!

What a man!

Yep! There’s NOTHING he can ever do that will surpass this!

Well, he could sign up for Fianna Fáil in Sligo-Leitrim...

What we liked…

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

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

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

Ah, William...

Yes, WILLIAM SHATNER! The 90-year-old legend of Star Trek! The man who played Captain Kirk! He’s gone into space!

Oh, THAT! Yes, THAT! Oh yeah, I knew all about that alright...

Well why were you going on about Mattie McGrath?

I dunno, I just assumed...then again, it’s a long way to space...

It’s a long way to Tipperary too.

Editor: Enough!

PIC OF THE WEEK: All the Delaneys! Athleague’s David Delaney is congratulated by some smaller Delaneys (all related)! Photo: Mick McCormack

The lifting of most, but not all, Covid-19 restrictions; Athleague triumph in Roscommon’s big hurling derby (v Tremane); Nigel Farage v Claire Byrne; Rory McIllroy’s return to form...

03

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

ADVERTORIAL

The Abbey Hotel – home of fine dining in County Roscommon Experience the culinary delights of the multi-award winning chefs at the four-star Abbey Hotel Roscommon – in a timeless, relaxed atmosphere.

County winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel Restaurant Award 2019, the four-star Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes, prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce.

This all combines to make the Abbey Hotel the perfect setting for dining in Roscommon, whether for business or pleas-

ure. The hotel offers an extensive seasonal Bar Food Menu for those wishing for a less formal experience. Lounge food is served daily from 4.30 pm to 9 pm, and afternoon tea is available at a cost of €25 per person with prior booking essential.

There is also a takeaway afternoon tea option.

With Covid restrictions, all those wishing to dine in the lounge and restaurant area must pre-book.

We also have a new pizza menu available to eat in or take out.

After dinner, guests can relax

Newly-formed Men’s Group seeks members The newly-established Roscommon Men’s Group is now seeking members in Roscommon town and surrounding areas.

Group members will host regular meetings and take part in various social projects and activities. The Roscommon Men’s Group is aimed at relieving social isolation, allowing members to meet with like-minded men for chat, activities, card games, etc.

Similar groups have been instrumental in aiding members’ mental health while allowing them to take part in a wide range of projects.

New members are now welcome and all enquiries can be made to Secretary Anthony Owens on 086-7807820.

RWN host event for National Reuse Month October is Ireland’s National Reuse Month.

Roscommon Women’s Network will host a ‘Community Action and Opportunities’ event on Friday, October 22nd with special guest, RTÉ Radio 1 broadcaster and environmentalist, Éanna Ní Lamhna.

The event, at the Suck Valley Visitor Centre in Athleague (10.30 am to 2.30 pm), will showcase reuse and repair projects in the county and will be followed after lunch by a discussion on reuse and the environment led by Éanna Ní Lamhna.

All are welcome. Light lunch will be provided. Covid-19 guidelines apply. Contact Nora or Martina on 094-9621690 or 0868099154 for more.

by the open fire in the luxurious, newly-refurbished lounge areas or in the Abbey Hotel Bar. There is an extensive drinks and ‘Wines of the World’ menu to choose from, as well as a range of cocktails, including the RAI award-winning ‘Apple of my eye’ Martini.

On Sundays, carvery lunch is served from 12 pm to 4 pm. We also serve a four-course lunch menu in our award-winning restaurant. Dinner is served from 6 pm to 9 pm each evening, with seasonal bar food served from

4.30 pm to 9 pm daily. Samples of our menus are on our website.

Special occasion menus are available for dinner dances, gala balls, christenings, birthday parties, communions, confirmation, and retirement parties.

To enquire about booking an event, simply call 090-6626240 or email restaurant@abbeyhotel. ie Gift vouchers are available to purchase on abbeyhotel.ie or direct from hotel reception. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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04

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Flood relief works begin at Lough Funshinagh < DAN DOONER

The Office of Public Works has this week confirmed that works on the new emergency flood relief measures have commenced at Lough Funshinagh in south Roscommon.

The confirmation comes following a special meeting of Roscommon County Council last week where the local authority confirmed that it was moving forward with a new plan to remove 2 million cubic litres of water from the turlough.

The original proposal to install an overflow pipe was halted due to a High Court action by environmental group, Friends of the Irish Environment.

The Council, which says it can’t raise flood barriers any higher, described the interim works as “necessary, appropriate, and lawful” and said they

would protect local residents, property and the environment.

Part of its statement read: “The Council remains focused on completing a solution to the flooding emergency at Lough Funshinagh.

“The problem has not gone away and in fact the urgency for that solution has only increased with the lake close to 460mm higher compared to this time last year.

“Since the High Court challenge by Friends of the Irish Environment, the Council has retained Malachy Walsh and Partners, Engineering and Environmental Consultants to provide independent advice about what is required to be done.

“They have completed their analysis and have advised the Council on the circumstances

where the Council may lawfully carry out an emergency solution development without approval from An Bord Pleanála, or any other third party.

“The Council welcomes the attention given by all interested persons to this complex humanitarian issue, and is committed to progressing the matter in a transparent way that will withstand robust scrutiny”.

Speaking at the special Council meeting on Thursday last, CEO Eugene Cummins said the works would be in compliance with the High Court order and that if they were stopped it would be a “tragic development”.

Mr. Cummins challenged those who would wish to stop the works to “go down and face the people” affected by the rising water levels.

Kilduff says works ‘give hope’ to local residents

Independent councillor Donal Kilduff has welcomed Roscommon County Council’s announcement that interim flood relief works will proceed at Lough Funshinagh, saying the news gives hope to local residents there.

“From what seemed like an impossible and desperate situation following the High Court action by Friends of the Irish Environment, the Council have now devised this scheme and will be proceeding with the work immediately.

“While accepting that this is a scaled-back scheme, it is still a very welcome step and will give some hope to local residents,” he said.

Cllr. Kilduff praised the work of the local authority’s chief executive, Eugene Cummins, and said landowners and residents will be reassured that the Council is on their side.

He said the works would “buy some time” before a more permanent solution could be found.

“I urge the Council, the OPW and all other agencies involved to complete these works as soon as possible before the worst of the winter sets in and to proceed with the planning for a full flood-alleviation scheme as a matter of urgency.

“I sincerely hope that this is the first step in getting to a long-term resolution” he concluded.

IFA welcomes resumption of works

Roscommon IFA Chairman, Jim O’Connor, has welcomed last Thursday’s announcement

by Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins that he has signed to enable works to recommence on the emergency overflow pipe in Lough Funshinagh.

Mr. O’Connor said it was a “huge relief” when the works were initially announced in May and that there was great upset amongst residents and farmers when the project was delayed in August following a High Court injunction.

“Many of the 44 farmers with land adjacent to the Lough had their property threatened and farm payments cut due to rising water levels.

“We are pleased that this work will now resume and urge Roscommon County Council to ensure every effort is made to complete it as soon as possible”.

Fallon: ‘Confident as I can be that works will proceed’ < DAN DOONER

Local councillor Laurence Fallon said he was as confident as he could be that works at Lough Funshinagh would be carried out without any further delays.

“From the information I have been given, there has been a robust examination with regards to any legal issues and the Council have provided assurances that they are working within the legal constraints and that there will be no invasion of the SAC (Special Area of Conservation).

“We are talking about a small amount of water being removed from the lake and therefore it’s impossible that anyone would be affected further downstream,” he said.

The Independent councillor said the hardship experienced by families in Ballagh and Lisphelim could not be overstated.

“The rate the water was rising, it was inevitable we would have

more flooding next winter,” he said.

“The disappointing thing is if we had been allowed to finish the initial works during the summer, we would be finished now.

It’s now a race against time and while the weather is very unpredictable, we have to hope that it goes in our favour and that the rain isn’t too bad over the coming months”.

Cllr. Fallon said judging by historical records, it was unlikely that the turlough would flood before February of next year but that he hoped the interim works would buy residents and the council time to implement a more permanent solution.

“This is a good news story and it’s news that is so badly needed.

It’s an intolerable situation for the local residents, who didn’t know whether they were going to have to leave their homes or whether the local road would collapse,” he said.

Councillor Laurence Fallon

05

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

CBS Roscommon Now enrolling Na Bráithre Críostaí

for 2022

The CBS Roscommon will host a Virtual Open Evening on November 3rd at 8pm. Sixth class boys and their parents from schools within the catchment area are invited to attend this information evening where they will find out more about the wide range of subjects on offer and the excellent teaching and learning taking place within the school. Principal, Mr. Kevin Scollan, will outline how the CBS can help your son achieve his academic and personal best.

To register for the event, please email enrolment@cbsroscommon. ie before November 1st.

CBS Roscommon, School of Choice

Seamus to launch autobiography...

Local journalist and broadcaster Seamus Duke will launch his autobiography ‘Dukie...The Game of Life’ at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon on Thursday, November 11th, at 8.30 pm.

The book is an account of his life and times in Roscommon town, and looks at some of the highlights of his thirty-five years in the local media, working in radio and local newspapers, and in the music scene too.

Unsurprisingly, there are a number of chapters remembering great GAA days, such as Roscommon’s All-Ireland minor win in 2006, the dramatic Connacht senior final win in 2001, the exploits of great Roscommon teams of the late 1970s and early ‘80s, and the back-to-back Connacht title winning team of 1990/1991.

In addition, Seamus recalls memories of great achievements by local people in horse racing, golf, soccer and schools’ sport. There are also chapters on his love of music, his interest in politics, and his own GAA club, Roscommon Gaels, with over forty interviews with well-known local and national sporting and political figures featured in the book.

RTÉ presenter Damien O’Reilly, a lifelong friend of the author, will perform the launch in the Abbey Hotel. MC on the night will be Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy, who edited the book.

Former Leitrim, Galway and Mayo senior football manager John O’Mahony will be a special guest.

Refreshments will be served on the night and everyone is welcome to attend.

Seamus Duke pictured at Dr. Hyde Park, Roscommon. Picture: Mick McCormack.

06

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor Thursday CNN’s ‘Cuomo Prime Time’ I can take or leave (usually leave). It’s on very late (Irish time) and host Chris can sometimes be insufferable. But tonight, on a final scan of the channels, I see that one of his guests is the truly remarkable William Shatner. What a man!

Now aged 90, the actor/musician/producer is just back from Space, having travelled there on a Blue Origin spacecraft/rocket.

Shatner speaks emotionally and powerfully of his experience.

Looking great for his age, he really is a remarkable man...articulate, passionate about climate change (and other issues), and with a great zest for life.

It’s hard to believe that it’s over half a century since Shatner first starred in the great television series Star Trek, playing Captain James Kirk. As a kid, I loved that programme, with its captivating cast/crew, including James Doohan as Scotty and Leonard Nimoy as the iconic Spock.

Life on the Starship Enterprise was never dull, much to the delight of young viewers all over the world. In fact, one could say it was ‘Life Jim, but not as we know it’ (one of many great catchphrases from this classic science fiction show). How fitting that Shatner/Kirk should actually go to Space! It’s great to see William Shatner continuing to live long and prosper.

Friday There are three types of people in the world. There are the drivers who acknowledge it when you ‘give way’ for them at a junction/roundabout, etc. Then there are the drivers who rather rudely don’t. Then there are non-drivers, who are exempt from this critique.

Saturday After a drop-off at Athlone railway station, I decide, as a postlockdown novelty, to pop into the Athlone Towncentre shopping centre, which many of us still refer to as the ‘new’ centre.

paul@roscommonpeople.ie heyday, this working class hero gave pleasure to many millions of people.

As I walked in, Tommy Hilfiger to my right, and the enticing aroma of coffee to my left, I thought of how surreal it is that this entire shopping centre was closed (like all retail) for much of the past 20 months or so.

There is less of a Covid ‘vibe’ now, with not as much emphasis on social distancing, although masks were still very much in evidence. The various stores were busy, but not excessively so.

In the aforementioned Tommy Hilfiger store, where there was no sign of Tommy himself, a young lady appeared a little embarrassed about the lack of stock. “We’re just beginning to get stuff in” she said, proudly adding that the changing rooms are back open over the last fortnight or so.

Suddenly, shopping – even browsing – feels like a treat. Meanwhile, the major revamp of our own Main Street (in Roscommon Town) is progressing nicely. And, unlike Athlone, we still have that special advantage over most towns: free parking.

Long may that status remain.

Sunday If you wanted a definition of a national treasure, you could happily settle on two words: ‘Brendan Kennelly’.

The gifted Kerry man was an academic whose teaching brilliance is cherished by generations of students of Trinity College, where he was Professor of Modern Literature. A man of boundless charm and charisma, he was the People’s Poet. Brendan had the common touch, no doubt about that.

For all his academic prowess and high standing in literary circles, it was probably his appearances on programmes like the Late Late Show that brought Kennelly wider acclaim, and that national treasure status.

We felt as if we knew him. He was charming, intelligent, funny, poetic, a smiling wordsmith with a voice from the Heavens. His death today has evoked sadness, as well as happy memories of the joy and comfort and hope that he brought.

Tuesday Confusion and frustration (yet again) for some within the hospitality industry, as the Government announces a slightly more restricted reopening of society than had been expected a week or two ago.

Nightclubs and bars can fully reopen, but there are some conditions, and the lack of clarity is causing a certain level of frustration and stress.

The big blow for small rural pubs is confirmation that table service will remain mandatory for now, meaning no access to the counter. What is an Irish pub without barstools, and a buzz at the counter? This industry has been hit so hard by the pandemic. Hopefully the overall picture will improve over the coming weeks.

Wednesday Local children try out the newly resurfaced ‘bog road’ at Newtown/Carrowmore/ Ballymurray. Gathering at the location recently, residents acknowledged the work of Roscommon County Council and the input of Cllr. Marty McDermott (see report and photos on page 26). Photo: Mick McCormack

Monday On tonight’s Living with Lucy (Virgin Media), soccer great Paul Gascoigne talked a good game, but in reality he cut a lonely and somewhat pitiful figure.

I say that with regret, because (in as much as we can judge celebrity figures from a distance) Gascoigne comes across as a likeable and funny man, and he was certainly a sensational footballer. Unfortunately, his ‘personal demons’ appear to have taken an awful toll.

His renowned sense of humour is now exhibited with a discernible melancholy. His stories of past escapades are funny, and told well, but there’s a sadness behind his weary eyes.

It’s striking throughout the programme how much ‘Gazza’ misses football. Playing was his escape from real-life pressures, perhaps

even from himself. In his prime he was a world class player, and it’s clear – and very touching too – just how much the British public still love him.

Presenter Lucy Kennedy spent a few days with the retired football superstar at his seaside home in the South of England. Everywhere they went, Gascoigne was approached by members of the public, people wanting to thank him for the joy he brought.

His humour and humility shone through, but Gascoigne is a battered, fragile figure now, shadowed by self-destruction. He is also utterly likeable. Currently sober (mostly), it would be great if he could continue on that path, but this programme wasn’t particularly reassuring in that regard. Hopefully brighter days lie ahead for Paul Gascoigne/Gazza. In his brilliant

On RTE Radio 1, the ‘pip’ sounds signalling the start of ‘Morning Ireland’ at 7 am are coming a bit stutteringly, like the pip machine is on its last legs. There are a few pips, then a pause. No sound. The pause grows. I’m wondering if even the pips are being restricted now, if things are actually that bad.

It’s not as if I hear the start of Morning Ireland very often, but on this dark morning I’ve just dropped one of our daughters into town to get the bus to Galway. Of course there’s roadworks beside the bus stop now too, meaning cars are parked at unusual angles and the bus driver has to weave into place with some caution. (On the way in, I note there are a few joggers out and about by 6.45 am.

Morning, Roscommon).

Mercifully, after that worrying pause, a new pip sounds, followed by another, followed (at 7 am) by the reassuring voice of Rachael English. The world is still okay.

07

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

TULSK, ROSCOMMON. Tel. 071 9639944.

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We care about ... winter wellness

Death of Fr Norman st Davitt in his 101 year Fr. Norman Davitt of the Divine Word Missionaries, Donamon, passed away peacefully on Saturday last (16th) in his 101st year.

Fr. Norman Davitt, R.I.P.

Born in Birmingham in 1921 to Thomas and Elizabeth Wolfe, Fr. Norman could trace his roots back to Ballyhaunis

where his paternal grandfather hailed from.

Fr. Norman first arrived in Donamon in 1939 just two days before the start of the Second World War, and spent three years there. He was ordained in 1947 and was then sent to Kerala, India in 1955 before returning to the UK a decade later.

Following the death of his father in 1968, Fr. Norman made his way to Papua New Guinea, an island off the north of Australia. Fr. Norman was warmly received in Papua New Guinea, while the mainly agricultural island made a lasting impression on him. He remained there until 1997, a term of almost 30 years.

Officially retired, Fr. Norman returned to England but it wasn’t long before he was on the move again, arriving back in Donamon in 1998 where he became a permanent resident.

Fr. Norman celebrated his 100th birthday last March and in August celebrated 74 years as a priest.

He was laid to rest in the Community Cemetery in Donamon following Mass of the Resurrection at Divine Word Church on Tuesday.

Call in to see our extensive range of vitamins to help prepare your body for the colder weather Flu Vaccinations available for all ages

08

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Owner Brian Larkin pictured at Centrepoint Autos.

The hard-working team at Centrepoint Autos, winners Business All Star Westmeath Motor Dealer of the Year award for 2021.

Westmeath’s Motor Dealer of the Year!

To coincide with their 10th anniversary, Brian Larkin and the team at Centrepoint Autos are delighted to announce they have been awarded the coveted Business All Star Westmeath Motor Dealer of the Year award for 2021.

This accreditation means Centrepoint Autos, Baylough, Athlone has achieved a quality mark meeting the highest standards of service and trust, based on All-Ireland Business All-Star foundation’s evaluation of the company’s

background, trustworthiness and performance, according to customers, employees and suppliers.

“To be recognised for this award is a huge honour and a reflection of the quality of service that we provide for our clients,” Brian said.

“It makes our team very proud to know that we have been identified as a ‘best in class’ Irish business in the motor industry and that the hard work and dedication of our team is recognised.

“We were also thrilled to have been an-

nounced recently as the Best Online Marketing Winner Q3 in Leinster by Carsireland.ie. This comes on the back of our Best Social Media award in 2020. This is an area we work extremely hard on to stay ahead with our online social media presence.

“We hope you will get acquainted with our premises soon as we value our customers and look forward to continuing to serve the public.

We would like to invite you to call in over the

next few weeks and especially on Saturday, October 23rd when we will have our anniversary celebrations onsite with giveaways, refreshments and fun on the day.

“Every car sold will be given a free service when next due and also everyone that views our cars will be entered into a draw for a holiday voucher. We have ample space and parking here for customers’ convenience and hope you will return again and again”.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) - Part 8

Notice in relation to Specified Development Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and Article 81 of Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) that Roscommon County Council proposes to carry out the following works: Location Description Cemetery Extension Project at Kilbegley, County Roscommon

Extension of the existing graveyard burial facilities to create circa 188 new grave spaces, with provision of new boundary walls, new pedestrian and vehicular access and footpaths.

Carole (Ducky) @IrPsych “Don’t try & lecture the Irish people about the culture & history & precarious nature of peace on this island. You haven’t got a clue.” Claire Byrne to Nigel Farage on #CBLive.

When Claire Byrne is good, she’s very very good.

-Viewers enjoyed prickly Nigel v persistent Claire...

Gavan Reilly @gavreilly Overheard in the office: “In nightclubs you have to wear face coverings except when eating, drinking and dancing – and no, we don’t know whether eating the face off someone is included” The joys of sharing Leinster House lodgings with @ seandefoe -Sometimes, after a long day, pretty much anything will get the folks on the Leinster House beat chortling...

Barry Kelly @BarryJ90 Wouldn’t be Claire Byrne’s biggest fan but this was poetry in motion #cblive -That’s fair (on Claire) but a bit savage on Farage (see what we did there? Sorry...)

Richard Chambers @newschambers So dancing in a nightclub fine. But dancing at a gig… seemingly not unless you’re doing it where your seat is?

-What have the Government gone and done now? Please make it stop...

Michael Caine @themichaelcaine I haven’t retired and not a lot of people know that -The legendary actor in self-deprecating mode as reports of his retirement turn out to be greatly exaggerated...

Richard Chambers @newschambers Micheál Martin: “What traditionally happens in a nightclub will happen in a nightclub.”

-Yep, readers are obviously invited to make their own jokes...

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

The project is the subject of appropriate assessment screening and environmental impact assessment screening reports. Plans and Particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy for a period of four weeks from 19th October 2021 during public opening hours at the offices of Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98 and the Athlone Municipal District Office, Civic Centre, Monksland, Athlone, County Roscommon N37 W5P9. Plans and particulars may also be viewed online on the Roscommon County Council website at www. roscommoncoco.ie A submission or observation in relation to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made, in writing or via email before 4pm on Thursday 2nd December 2021, marked “Cemetery Extension Project at Kilbegley” and submitted to: Roads Department, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98 or roads@roscommoncoco.ie Signed: Shane Tiernan Director of Services

Claire Byrne and Nigel Farage

09

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople ADVERTORIAL

Centrepoint Autos celebrates 10 years in business with massive car sale!

Centrepoint Autos, Baylough, Athlone will mark 10 years in business this month with a massive car sale from Tuesday, 19th of October to Saturday, October 30th.

Amazing deals are available throughout our large selection of stock with something to suit all budgets and with out of hours appointments catered for and a free nationwide delivery service available!

All cars sold are fully serviced and valeted, with an NCT/DOE, dealer warranty, and history check, leaving our customers with complete peace of mind and including a special sale offer of a free service voucher with all cars sold throughout the week.

Centrepoint Autos has grown significantly in the last 10 years, all thanks to our loyal customers.

Owner Brian Larkin says: “We understand times are hard and we are under no illusions that it is going to be a very difficult road but we started 10 years ago in the midst of a recession and have built up a huge customer base, who thankfully keep returning.

“Loyalty from customers nationwide has fuelled our continued growth and we were delighted to leave behind nine successful years at our old premises at Hodson Bay last

Proud dad: Centrepoint Autos proprietor Brother and sister, Brian and Aoife Larkin (fourth and fifth from right), pictured with Brian Larkin pictured with sons Daniel (3) and the hard-working team at Centrepoint Autos.

Jamie (5).

year as we moved our car sales and services departments to a larger premises at Baylough, Athlone (N37 PD88) (McManus’ old fuel depot).

“This restructuring plan allowed us to be more efficient by finally having all departments under one roof where we continue to offer the same friendly, efficient service with even more space to offer a larger selection of cars and

full garage repairs and services onsite headed by workshop manager Leon Smith”.

Brian said the Covid-19 pandemic brought a lot of uncertainty, adding to the challenges already faced by motor dealers.

“Due to Covid restrictions, we have had to adapt our procedures and utilise technology and tools to offer virtual testdrives, personalised walkaround videos, finance online, credit card payments and delivery to your door…you can now purchase your next car without leaving the house!”

While the last two years have been tough, Centrepoint Autos first opened

its doors during the recession ten years ago and Brian says his team are just as determined to remain competitive in the current climate.

APA approved and authorised NCA credit intermediaries, Centrepoint Autos supplies affordable cars with excellent finance packages available from a number of companies to help you find your perfect vehicle.

Brian says he is delighted to have a motivated and experienced team behind him, who take great pride in the business.

“Despite many ups and downs over the last 10 years, we are determined to evolve and overcome any obstacles. Please feel free to drop in and have a look around or give myself or Luca a call with any of your motoring queries,” he said.

“We stock a large range of all leading brands and a large selection of used vehicles at affordable prices. We are proud to be members of SIMI so you can buy with confidence. Our motto is ‘Little profit but more often’ and this principle has worked for us over the last ten years”.

View Centrepoint Autos’ constantly changing stock on www. centrepointautos.ie and call Brian or Luca (sales enquiries) on 0906417800 or David for all your car servicing needs.

10

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

The

G

D News page

Decadent Decadent Theatre Theatre Company is leading Company the way toward the resumption of live theatre and ambitious touring with a 20-venue national tour of Eugene O’Brien’s award-winning drama, Eden. Arts Centre visits Roscommon Directed by Andrew Flynn, it comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on Wednes-

Directed by Andrew Flynn, ‘Eden’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on Wednesday, October 27th as part of its travels across Ireland.

Decadent theacross CovidIreland. era, according to Flynn, who day,Theatre OctoberCompany 27th as partisof leadits travels ing the way toward the of resumption is Artistic Director of Galway-based Eden is a story stale love of and fresh lust in the Irish midlands and a searlive theatre and ambitious touringbreakdown with Decadent Theatre Company. ing exploration of marital and taboo topics such as Irish mascua 20-venue tour of Eugene “This year happens be Eden’s 20th linity, national sexual dysfunction, and Ireland’s relationship with to alcohol.

The play’s O’Brien’s drama, Eden. open anniversary,” Flynn. with honesty, twoaward-winning brilliantly drawn characters their heartssays to audiences Directed

by Andrew Flynn, it comes “It premiered in 2001 and bizarrely, humour, and heartbreak. to Roscommon Artswriter Centre that tour was cancelled of drama foot From the of on theWedneshit RTÉ drama Pure Mule, Eugenebecause O’Brien’s day, October 27th New as part of at itsboth travels andTimes mouthTheatre disease.Awards Social distancing is won Best Play the Irish and the Stewacross Ireland. intrinsic to the play becauseWest the characart Parker Awards in 2001. It has been performed in London’s End, on Eden is a story ofand stale love andinto fresh terslanguages. are completely alienated from each Broadway, translated several lust in the Irishhas midlands and a by searing The play’s structure is demands that Eden been plagued plagues,other. but the tense two-hander ideally suited exploration marital two characters neverofmeet, interact to theofCovid era,breakdown according toand Flynn,the who is Artistic Director Galway-based taboo topics suchTheatre as IrishCompany. masculinity, or touch. They are in their own worlds Decadent th the stage and don’t even know the sexual dysfunction, and Ireland’s rela- 20on “This year happens to be Eden’s anniversary,” says Flynn. tionship “It with alcohol. in The play’s two other there”. premiered 2001 and bizarrely, thatistour was cancelled because of foot brilliantly open distancing their Starring Maeve Fitzpatrick and Patrick anddrawn mouthcharacters disease. Social is intrinsic to the play because the charhearts to audiences with honesty, hu-fromMurphy, Eden’s sterling creativedemands team acters are completely alienated each other.

The play’s structure mour, and Ger Sweeney (setin design), thatheartbreak. the two characters never meet,includes interact or touch.

They are their own Fromworlds the writer of stage the hit CiarantheBagnall (lighting), and Carl on the andRTÉ don’tdraeven know other is there”. ma PureStarring Mule, Eugene O’Brien’s draKennedy (composer/sound design).team It Maeve Fitzpatrick and Patrick Murphy, Eden’s sterling creative ma wonincludes Best New at both(set thedesign), Irish Ciaran contains strong(lighting), language and and Carl adultKenneconGerPlay Sweeney Bagnall Times Theatre Awards and the Stewart tent and is suitable ages 16+.

Eden’s dy (composer/sound design).

It contains strong languagefor and adult content and Parker is Awards It has beennational national is supported by the Arts suitableinfor2001. ages 16+.

Eden’s tour istour supported by the Arts Council’s performed in London’s West End,ofon Touring and Dissemination Touring and Dissemination WorkCouncil’s and Capacity Building Schemes. of Broadway,Tickets and translated into several and Capacity Building Schemes. are available now fromWork www.roscommonartscentre.ie and 090languages.

Tickets are available now from www.

6625824.

Eden has been plagued by plagues, but roscommonartscentre.ie and 090the tense two-hander is ideally suited to 6625824.

Local man to run 90km for Lough Ree RNLI boathouse < DAN DOONER

Athlone resident Denis Bergin will run 90km around Lough Ree this weekend in order to raise funds for the RNLI boathouse which is nearing completion at Coosan Point, Athlone.

The Tullamore native and long-time supporter of the charity said: “I was hoping to run in the Dublin City Marathon to support the new lifeboat station but when that got cancelled I had to think of a different challenge for the same weekend. As the lifeboat covers every corner of the lake, running around it seemed a good alternative”.

Denis will start from the Lough Ree RNLI boathouse at Coosan Point on Saturday morning (24th) at 9 am. His route will take him through Ballykeeran, Glasson and onwards through the parishes of Tang, Ballymahon, Kenagh and Newtowncashel as he hugs the lake shore on his way to the bridge at Lanesboro, Co. Longford.

On the return marathon he will run down the west side of Lough Ree from Ballyleague towards Roscommon town and south through Kilteevan, Knockcroghery, Lecarrow, Bal-

Pictured at children’s art competition presentation which took place as part of the promotion of St. John’s Community Centre, Lecarrow recently.

Young artists showcase their talent as part of St. John’s Community Centre promotion

Athlone resident Denis Bergin will run 90km around Lough Ree this weekend in order to raise funds for the RNLI boathouse which is nearing completion at Coosan Point, Athlone.

lybay and Hodson Bay back to finish in Coosan on Sunday afternoon.

Lough Ree RNLI Treasurer Vincent Rafter welcomed the initiative and said: “Great progress has been made on raising the €100,000 community contribution for the €1.2 million boathouse and the generosity and endurance of people like Denis are an inspiration to all those who support and rely on the charity”.

Donations to Denis Bergin’s double marathon run for the boathouse can be made at the following ‘gofundme’ page: https://gofund.me/aa9421bf.

As part of the recent initiative to promote St. John’s Community Centre, Lecarrow, a children’s art competition was held. The theme of the art and colouring competition was ‘Our Community’ and it was open to all entries from children aged up to 12 years.

Many different aspects of community life were represented, including the school community, social community, sports community, farming community and spiritual community. The colourful entries reflected what community means to the children who entered. The artwork has been displayed at the Community Centre over the last number of weeks.

The first prize in the 0-7 years category was awarded to Iarla O Mainnín (aged six), who won a €50 toy shop voucher and a personalised slate by Saoirse

Slate Designs. The first place in the 8+ category was awarded to Thomas Rayner (aged ten) who also won a €50 toy shop voucher and bespoke slate by Saoirse Slate Designs. Runners-up prizes in the 0-7 years category were awarded to Erin Morgan (aged four) and Katie Sherringham (aged four), and runners up prizes in the 8+ category were awarded to Padraig Munnelly (aged nine) and Anna Sturgeon (aged nine).

Congratulations to all who entered. Thanks to all who continue to support the St. John’s Community Centre GoFundMe campaign, which closes on December 31st.

Donations can still be made until October 31st via GoFundMe, Paypal or cash/ cheque to any committee member.

Pictured at children’s art competition presentation which took place as part of the promotion of St. John’s Community Centre, Lecarrow recently.

11

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Taoiseach turns sod mmon Herald on €200m N5 project Correction Proof An Taoiseach Michéal Martin turned the sod on the €200 million N5 project at Shankill Cross near Elphin on Monday afternoon.

Works on the 34km stretch of the N5 from Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue are expected to be finished in 2024.

Limerick-based civil engineering company Roadbridge Ltd. were awarded the contract for the

project and company CEO Conor Gilligan said next spring would see the “big construction” taking place.

Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins described the project as “one of the most, if not most important” developments in the country.

Local Fine Gael Senator Aisling Alan beirne Dolan said the project was “tes-

tament to Government commitments under Project Ireland 2040” and would increase connectivity between Dublin and Roscommon.

“This is such a dangerous stretch of road in terms of accidents. This investment will remove articulated trucks from town centres and make communities safer in Frenchpark, Bellanagare, Tulsk and Strokes-

Rep Contact Details: 090- 6627377

alan.beirne@roscommonherald.com

town,” she said, adding that it would boost tourist numbers in the region.

Meanwhile, local Independent councillor Tom Crosby also welcomed the commencement of the works, describing it as “exciting news for the region” which 857583 would help to improve safety for road users while leading to furtherbusiness investCafé Restaurant club ment locally.

Main St, Athleague l Tel: 090 6663343

Order No.: Copyline: Date: 05/04/2021 | Mon 09:49 Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 5.30 pm - Sunday 10.30 am to 5 pm

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Email: lespetitestartres@gmail.com Facebook: Les Petites Tartres

Hamrock’s

2021

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325

021

Saturday 23rd October:

Music in the bar with

HENRY & THE USUAL SUSPECTS Class:

Colour:

Home,Interiors,DIY

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Advert Size: 12cms x 5cols

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin pictured with members of Roscommon Co. Council, including the National Roads Regional Office (NRRO) and directors of Roadbridge Ltd., at the sod-turning ceremony for the construction of the N5 Scramogue to Ballaghaderreen road project. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

It is with deep regret that as a result of the failure of the Authorities to proceed as planned with the lifting of restrictions in the hospitality sector

Down The Hatch Church Street, Roscommon

has no option but to defer our planned re-opening on Friday October 22nd We look forward to welcoming all our friends back in the near future – Seamus and Larry.

12

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

‘Sent to Coventry’ after football tour mishap!

Our man Frank on football tours without football, a low point at Highfield Road, Cromwell and the curse of Connacht Rugby, and ‘fobbing’ off modern technology in cars…

I’ve told you before that I once got a job in the Golden Lion pub in East London, a pub that was being run by Creggs man Jack Grady, his wife Lizzie (who cooked the best steak in all of London), and their son Seamus. I had such a good time there that in slightly less than six months, I managed to nearly double in size! I arrived in London at a bit less than nine stone and headed home at a good and (un)healthy fifteen stone, a weight which I have carried to this day. My own father failed to recognise me on my return home!

In those days, the number of Irish in England was huge, and most of the customers in the Golden Lion were from Mayo and Galway. Up in Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool, there were huge Irish communities (as now), with the Irish being credited with playing a huge part in building Britain.

However, there were other cities in England that had loads of Irish people living in them

(like Coventry), which never really get the recognition they deserve. When did anyone tell you that they were off to Coventry? From the local mountain (Mount Mary), Ward brothers Johnny, Jimmy and Bobby spent most of their lives in Coventry. Like many Irish before and since, they made great lives for themselves there and were all very successful.

This week in one of the national papers, there was a big article on Coventry City, a football club that had fallen on very hard times in recent years. The fact that there is a resurgence in the club’s fortunes was a source of great delight to their extremely passionate and committed supporters. Many years ago, a few of us used go on tour every year, and while they were mostly rugby tours, we did four tours to football matches.

I was the organiser. The first one, to Old Trafford, was a success. The second one, also to Old Trafford, showed a side of me that I’m not very proud of – flights and accommodation went according to plan, but at the last minute, my ticket supplier let me down and I had to decide what action to take. I finally decided to say nothing and let the lads off to Manchester while I cried off the trip due to a very bad flu and sat back waiting for the repercussions.

All was quiet, and I thought I’d got away with it, so I went up to Mikeen’s to have a couple of medicinal drinks. However, just as closing time came, my contentment was shattered when I re-

ceived a phone call from a very irate tourist, and I was left in no doubt as to what he thought of my ticketless tour.

The following year I put together a trip to Anfield, which, for as long as I live, will go down as a trip that can never be bettered. We got good match tickets, and the singing of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ before the game is something I will never forget. To top it all off, we were such a hit in McHale’s pub that they had a special farewell party for us before we left on what they called Manic Monday. Most of the customers in McHale’s were in their ‘golden years’, but they were great craic.

That tour was such a success that we unanimously agreed to go back the following year and I was now flying so high, like Joe Walsh, that there was no discussion at all as to who would organise this tour. I decided we would go to see Liverpool versus Coventry, so I booked the flights, the same hotel, and fondly looked forward to the huge welcome Terry and his staff would have for us in McHale’s.

Friday night came and off we went to collect our tickets, delighted with ourselves. That was until one of our party (who was a bit brighter than the rest of us) suddenly declared that the tickets were printed wrong – they said the game was in Highfield Road in Coventry, while I was adamant it was in Anfield. Of course it ended up being in Coventry, and on April 28th 2001,

Does Cromwell’s ghost still haunt Irish Rugby?

Cromwell was the first man in authority to come to the conclusion that Connacht was inferior to the three other provinces, when in 1654 he told Catholics from all over the country to go to Connacht or die, giving rise to the famous phrase ‘To Hell or to Connacht’.

For some reason, rugby authorities seem to have continued to follow Cromwell’s thinking down through the years when it comes to their attitude towards the western province. Who can ever forget the infamous attempt by the rugby authorities to get rid of the province altogether?!

Year after year, whenever Connacht face any of the other three provinces on Irish soil, there can be no doubt that all the big refereeing decisions go against them. Last Saturday’s game

against Munster in Thomond Park is the latest to feature a long list of horrendous refereeing errors. I’m referring to the try scored by Chris Clote after the most obvious offside earlier

in the move. It would make you wonder if there is some (even sub-conscious) in-built desire by the authorities to ensure that the ‘big three’ aren’t embarrassed.

No doubt Andy Friend and his team feel they were very hard done by last Saturday in Limerick. Does Cromwell’s ghost still walk the corridors of the Irish Rugby Union?

Kyle and Nicole – young hurling fans – pictured at Sunday’s County Final.

Photo: Mick McCormack

we underwent the hour and a half train journey to Highfield Road, and were there to witness football history as a 2-0 victory for Liverpool relegated the Sky Blues after an unbroken thirtyfour year run in the highest division.

It’s funny how football supporters can be so passionate about their club. To my dying day I will remember grown men and women standing on the terraces at the final whistle, tears flowing down their faces as they came to terms with their relegation.

After the game we took the train back to Liverpool, had a bite to eat and headed back to McHale’s, where to our huge disappointment, no one even remembered us. We were completely forgotten, it was as if we were simply deleted and confined to the dustbin. There was neither a welcoming nor farewell party for us.

My touring party were so unhappy that our unexpected trip to Coventry was my last major tour undertaking.

A bloodless coup saw my brother, ‘The Rasher’, take over as the chief organiser, and apart from a whiff of corruption over the disappearance of the kitty in Paris in 2006, he has kept his position to this day.

As for Coventry, despite still being well populated by the Irish, there are no commercial flights that I can find from Ireland at all, so I imagine it’ll be a long while until anyone tells you they’re off to Coventry for the weekend.

And finally…

On Sunday last, I headed off in my trusty old Volkswagen Passat (which replaced my trusty, even older Volvo) to Clifden, where Creggs were once again to suffer an agonising defeat against old rivals, the Connemara All Blacks, in the Connacht Junior League.

Off I went through Moycullen, Oughterard, and Maam Cross until shortly before 2 pm, when Clifden finally came into view. At that point, I decided to pull into a shop to get myself some refreshments. When I came back, I realised to my horror that my fob wasn’t working and I couldn’t get back into my Passat.

Some old lad (about ten years younger than me) told me that a shop down the road sold the batteries that would sort out the fob, but just as I was about to head off, he said that because it was Sunday, they wouldn’t be open. I was so annoyed and upset at being locked out 100 miles from home that I started to hit the offending fob as hard as Tyson Fury hit Deontay Wilder the week before. To my relief and amazement, the rough treatment worked and the doors miraculously unlocked!

The rest of my journey was uneventful, but on my way home I decided that modern technology is ruining my motoring pleasure. What was wrong with the key opening the door? I recently drove a brand new car (definitely not mine) and you don’t even need a key to start it at all. Meanwhile over in the United States, they now have a car that drives itself! Where will it all end?

As for me, I shudder to think what will await me if and when the old Passat heads off to join all my Volvos in their Heavenly home in the sky!

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Roscommon County Council - Free WiFi Initiative WiFi4EU is a European initiative that promotes free access to Wi-Fi connectivity for citizens in public spaces including parks, squares, libraries, town centres and museums in municipalities throughout Europe. The initiative provides EU funding to a Local Authority to install Wi-Fi equipment in public spaces that are not already equipped with a free Wi-Fi hotspot. The Wi-Fi service will be free of charge, free of advertising and free from commercial re-use of data.

Roscommon County Council were successful in receiving this EU funding to create up to 60 areas of free Wi-Fi within the county. The funding was split into 4 vouchers and Roscommon County Council are delighted to announce that Vouchers 1 & 2 have been completed under Phase 1 of the rollout and 28 Access Points are now live in the northern half of the County. Members of the public can access free Wi-Fi in the towns and villages shown on the map below.

Phase 2 installations are currently underway in the southern half of the county.

Area

WiFi Access Point locations in each area are shown below - Roscommon County Council would like to thank the businesses and community groups listed below for enabling us to complete the project in each location. Free WiFi is available to the general public in the area around all of these locations.

Boyle

King House - Boles - Smith Kelly Scott - Betterbuy – Lough-Key Forest Park

Elphin

Old Court House - An Bothar Rua

Cortober

Synergy Café - Gings Bar

Cootehall

John McGahern Museum

Croghan

Croghan Community Centre

Strokestown

Strokestown Library - Percy French Hotel - Jazel Hair Care

Tulsk

Rathcroghan Heritage Centre

Ballinagare

Ballinagare Health & Leisure Centre

Frenchpark

Western Gaels GAA grounds

Castlerea

Castlerea Library – Castlerea Swimming Pool - Norios Restaurant - Kearneys Pharmacy

Loughglynn

Loughglynn Community Centre

Ballaghaderreen County Council Office - Topside Meats –

Ballaghaderreen Library Egans Jewellers

13

14

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s MUSINGS Could you be as forgiving as Coleen?

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

While being able to forgive and forget may be essential tools in any relationship, I have to say that for me, there are some indiscretions that are so hurtful they simply cannot be overlooked.

I’m speaking about an affair – or in the case of footballer Wayne Rooney, several affairs.

Then again, perhaps I’m not as strong as his wife Coleen who, in a trailer for upcoming TV documentary ‘Rooney’, revealed how she has “forgiven” her husband and the father of their four sons for his much-publicised booze and sex-shame stunts, admitting: “It wasn’t acceptable”.

Fair play to her, Coleen’s clearly a very tolerant lady who evidently loves her cheating husband so much she’s willing to overlook the fact that he’s publicly humiliated her, and rather than giving him the red card, has instead chalked his disgraceful acts down as being a minor infraction. Wow!

I’m not judging Coleen or anyone who forgives their partner for having an affair, quite the opposite. In fact, truth be known I’ve got nothing but admiration for these men and women. If I were in their shoes, there’s no way I’d be so accepting and unresentful.

There’s no way I’d kiss and make up with someone who cheats, yet despite the enormous challenges Rooney’s affairs have forced on her life, Coleen, like many a wronged partner, has chosen to forgive.

It wouldn’t be me. Nope! I believe that at birth, rather than sprinkling me with the ‘forgiving gene’, God in her infinite wisdom generously dunked me in the pool of wrath… several times.

Don’t get me wrong, I do have an enormous capacity to forgive, and I have forgiven many people I love for numerous harms done to me. However, as I’d imagine the most hurtful part of being

Please keep pets safe this Halloween It’s Halloween, and while every one of us is entitled to enjoy and celebrate it in all its scary glory, can I please ask readers to keep their pets safely indoors, only allowing them out to pee/ poo in a secured area, always under the supervision of an adult.

If you’ve got a pet rabbit, move their hutch indoors into your garage, or into a downstairs loo/ utility room. If you’ve got horses, stable them securely and never ever set off fireworks, bangers or light a bonfire in a field containing/next to an area where horses, cattle, sheep or other animals are being kept.

Go raibh maith agaibh, agus Oíche Shamhna shona daoibh!

betrayed by the one you love would stem not so much from the physical act they committed, but rather from the cheater’s disregard for your feelings and your shared trust, then I’m afraid an affair is definitely not something I’d ever overlook.

Then again, everyone’s different and thankfully I’ve never been forced to go through the heartbreak of being hurt by an affair. But hypothetically speaking, if the unthinkable were to happen, anyone who may slip up can be sure I wouldn’t be doing a Coleen Rooney and uttering the words ‘it wasn’t acceptable’ – oh, no!

In my view, cheating on a loved one is one of the most heinous relationship crimes anyone can commit. However, I do empathise and understand how many people may believe that their partner’s affair is more of an attack against their dignity as opposed to their

marriage itself, and to that end, can stoically pull themselves together and sweep everything under the rug.

I can also understand how many may not wish to give up the lifestyle or social standing they’ve cultivated by being with said partner, and despite the fact they’ve breached their trust and rocked their confidence, choose to get over the pain of the betrayal. I also get how many may stay with a cheater for religious reasons or the sake of their children, and I can tell you here and now that anyone who can do that has my respect and admiration, because they’re evidently more magnanimous than me.

Perhaps it’s a failing on my part, but it’s clear that an ‘unacceptable’ act has a different meaning to myself and Coleen.

Hubby being brave enough to scoff the last two squares of my vegan chocolate is, you get it…

Coleen Rooney

unacceptable! And, okay, he says he’d have to be pretty desperate to eat vegan chocolate, but you get my point – if hell hath no fury like Miriam being left chocolate-less, you can only imagine what I’d do to someone who cheated on me.

I’d not only burst their bubble, I’d burst it with a massive bang!

I’ve been married a long time, and while I believe we all have a duty to do everything in our power to make a relationship work, forgiving a partner’s affair is not part of my ‘good wife’ job description. Why? Because I don’t live in Disneyland, I live in the real world, one where I have neither the time nor the will to create a perfect fantasy life!

Covid-deniers are holding us to ransom Bonus payments for frontline workers are being teased out – oooh, and another bank holiday too. Paschal put a fiver in our purses (not mine, the Budget didn’t benefit me at all) and we, the compliant citizens of Roscommon, are all striding purposefully towards Halloween…and freedom! Yippee!

But wait – despite the fact that over 80 per cent of adults are fully vaccinated, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin (in a speech more boring than the contents of an in-flight menu) is still dithering towards guiding us to that much-touted ‘new era’! Confused? Me too. Fed up? You betcha!

Even though I was hesitant at first, I am fully vaccinated. Why? Because I want to get on with my life, and while I do empathise with those who’ve got valid medical reasons for remaining unvaccinated, I have absolutely no time for Covid-deniers or anti-vaxxers, and believe they create a significant risk to the wider community.

With that in mind, I have a suggestion. Instead of locking the farreaching issue of Covid deniers into a closet, effectively erecting giant orange cones and ‘do not enter’ tape around them, and willing

them to go away – why isn’t our Government organising a massive public push to educate them?

Despite the fact that twenty months down the line, following what was one of the strictest lock-

downs seen by any nation, we’re being told that the number of Covid cases are rising right across the country in all age groups. So what’s going on? What’s going to happen when, through what’s clearly been a case of inadequate planning by both the Government and our healthcare system, the country once again becomes impacted by the winter flu virus and mounting Covid cases?

It’s about time those numpties living in a parallel universe, denying Covid exists, were given the whole virological picture regarding the stresses and strains their ignorance and indifference are placing on our health system.

The only way to do this – in my opinion – is for Micheál Martin to roll out a proper, warts and all, vaccine engagement and education programme. Perhaps then those ignoramuses who view masks as a ‘form of oppression’ will stop being permitted to hold the rest of us to ransom. Just a thought.

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Kerrane anger over Castlerea mental health services < DAN DOONER

Local Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has criticised Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler after receiving confirmation that posts to provide Psychiatry of Later Life at the e-Mental Health Hub in Castlerea have yet to be filled.

Deputy Kerrane had sought an update from the Minister of State this week in the Dáil.

The Sinn Féin TD said: “The e-Mental Health Hub was opened to great fanfare in June 2020 after the heartless closure of the Rosalie Home (in Castlerea), despite promises that those who called it home would see

out the rest of their days there. That promise was reneged on.

“No funding was provided for the Hub for 2021.

I continued to raise this issue and eventually seven months into the year, funding of €1.4 million was announced to staff.

“Minister Butler confirmed to me this week that no posts for the Psychiatry of Later Life have been filled and three remain vacant for the Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Connect. The Minister remarked that recruitment is out of her control”.

Deputy Kerrane said: “These are critical services. We deserve better. I will continue to raise this until full staffing and services are in place”.

Calls for end to River Suck fishing permits < DAN DOONER

Members of Roscommon County Council are calling on their colleagues in the Galway local authority to support them in abolishing fishing permits on the River Suck, a move they say will boost tourism in the area.

According to Cllr. Anthony Waldron (Independent), the current cost of a fishing permit is €45, which all anglers must pay to Inland Fisheries Ireland in order to legally fish for trout and pike on the river and its tributaries.

Cllr. Waldron put forward a motion at a re-

cent meeting of Roscommon County Council calling for an end to these permits, a motion which received the full backing of the Council chamber.

This motion has been ratified by Ballinasloe Municipal District and will now be brought forward to Galway County Council.

“There are huge benefits to fishing,” Cllr. Waldron said. “It’s brilliant for mental health and getting outdoors.

“This could be a huge driver of tourism in both Roscommon and Galway and would see the area really prosper as a result”.

Somers Park in Castlerea in running for top award < DAN DOONER

Somers Park, located at The Demesne in Castlerea, was recently nominated for an All-Ireland Community and Council Award in the category of Best Public Park.

The park will now go forward to compete with six similar projects from around Ireland for the title of ‘Best Public Park’ at the LAMA awards ceremony which takes place on Saturday, November 27th

at Crowne Plaza, Santry in Dublin. Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice said the nomination was a result of years of hard work locally.

“I’m delighted with this nomination. This is a good news story for the area. Somers Park is a park within a park and with the help of Roscommon County Council and Castlerea Town Team, we have done a large amount of work in the park.

“A new playground was built as well as a new carpark for the

pool, and a new walking track and outdoor exercise machines.

“With great community buyin, this park is a great success.

I want to thank the playground committee and Castlerea Community Employment Scheme for all their help in keeping the place clean and maintained.

“It’s nice to get recognition for all this work and Somers Park is the only project in Roscommon to reach the final of these awards,” Cllr. Fitzmaurice concluded.

Coman is new chair of Amateur Drama Council of Ireland

It was a proud day recently for the people of Glenamaddy and environs with news of the election of one of their own to the position of Chairman of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland. This is the first time that a Galway person has been elected to this position since 1952, when that body first sat.

The new chairman is Coman Keaveny, from a family steeped in the theatre and amateur drama in Glenamaddy going all the way back to the turn of the last century.

In 1960, Glenamaddy Drama Festival was established under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland.

Coman Keaveny’s grandfather, the late Bill Keaveny, was at the forefront of the festival. His daughter Maeve (RIP) later held the role of Secretary of the festival. Coman’s mother, the late Margaret Keaveny (RIP), was involved in every aspect of theatre and drama in Glenamaddy for many years.

Coman Keaveny is the current director of Glenamaddy Drama Festival. His election to such a high office within the association has brought great honour to the drama group and drama festival, as well as to Glenamaddy and the surrounding areas.

Coman Keaveny

Childminders: Are you aware of the National Action Plan for Childminding?

The National Action Plan for Childminding is a pathway to be developed over the next 8 years that sets out steps towards regulation, support and subsidies, for all paid, nonrelative childminders. The Action Plan will involve change and significant benefits for childminders, children and the families using their services.

The aim of the Action Plan is to provide greater recognition for childminding and to support childminders in their work of providing high quality early learning and care and school age childcare, thus supporting child development and learning outcomes and helping families.

For more information on the National Action Plan for Childminding, setting up as a childminder or support finding a childminder in your area please contact Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG or visit: https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/df207national-action-plan-for-childminding-2021-2028/ Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG also hold regular network meetings for new and existing childminders, if you would like to attend, please contact us on info@ roscommonchildcare.ie or 094 96 22540.

ASK THE TEAM

?

Question to Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG Team: I am looking for childcare in County Roscommon, how can Roscommon CCC help me?

Choosing the right Early Learning and Care (ELC) or School Age Childcare (SAC) provider for your child can be a daunting task for parents. Many factors come into play. The quality of care and education in the service is paramount, whilst other factors such as cost, location and the ethos of the service are often also key considerations when choosing childcare.

Roscommon County Childcare Committee (CCC) are able to assist whether you are searching for the first time, or are thinking of switching your child to a different provider. Please contact a member of the team on 094 96 22540 or info@roscommonchildcare.ie. You can also visit Roscommon CCC website: www.roscommonchildcare.ie & Roscommon CCC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roscommonchildcare/

Roscommon County Childcare Committee welcome the new developments & additional supports Following Budget 2022, Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG (CCC) Co-Ordinator/ Manager, Irene Cafferky, welcomed the announcements and supports available to the ELC & SAC sector. ‘We welcome the new developments & additional supports and look forward to supporting their implementation in 2022’ says Cafferky. Roscommon CCC would like to inform parents of childcare schemes that may be available to them.

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme: The ECCE programme is a universal programme available to all children within the eligible age range. It provides children with their first formal experience of early learning prior to commencing primary school. The programme is provided for three hours per day, five days per week over 38 weeks per year and the programme year runs from September to June with one entry point this year of 1st September. To view if your child is eligible for the ECCE scheme please see Roscommon CCC website home page or contact us on 094 96 22540.

Additional supports: The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with additional needs can access the ECCE programme. Its goal is to empower pre-school

providers to deliver an inclusive pre-school experience, ensuring that every eligible child can meaningfully participate in the ECCE programme and reap the benefits of quality early years care and education.

National Childcare Scheme (NCS) The National Childcare Scheme will replace all previous targeted childcare programmes with a single, streamlined and user-friendly Scheme to help parents meet the cost of quality childcare. The National Childcare Scheme supports families with children aged between 24 weeks and 15 years who are attending any participating Tusla registered childcare service, including any Tusla registered childminder and Tusla registered school age childcare services. A full list of contracted providers is available on www.ncs.gov.ie or you can contact Roscommon County Childcare Committee CLG on 094 96 22540. There are two types of supports available under the Scheme: a Universal subsidy and an Income Assessed subsidy.

For more information on the above schemes and where your local childcare service is, please do not hesitate to contact a member of Roscommon CCC team on 094 96 22540 or email info@roscommonchildcare.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Time to give credit unions the respect they have earned It hasn’t been easy to be positive about the future of our rural communities these past few weeks.

The closure of banks and ATM machines in several towns in this region cast a shadow over the ability of local business people and residents in sparsely populated areas to be able to continue living and trading in the local community without suffering major inconvenience or being burdened with extra expenditure in different parts of their daily life.

I know I should point out that the services of the banks that have been closed will be shared by other bank branches in the county, and will still be available online. But, as somebody who has banked through the medium of the Internet for a good ten years now, I would still prefer to have the option of calling into my local bank branch from week to week when it comes to getting my own personal business done. That’s my personal point of view.

On all occasions when I want to discuss my personal finances I not only like to meet bank staff face to face, I usually insist on it. I rely on the professionalism of the people I know who work in the local bank to facilitate those meetings – which they usually do – and to follow up the action required to a similarly professional standard.

The effect of the recent closures on people in business is even more acute. A publican I know has strong opinions about the erosion of the bank’s services. “We need change for our tills every Friday”, he reminded me this week. “Now they want me to drive another 20 miles to get the coinage. Even then, they don’t want to open a counter for this specific service. It’s as if they don’t want our business at all any more”.

Every bank in the country has closed the doors of smaller branches over the last ten years. A total of 88 local branches shut for the last time earlier this month, with the bank claiming the decision is due to it having reached a “tipping point” between online and offline business. I am not sure if more experienced and older customers would agree that such a tipping point is indeed fair or relevant to them.

Covid has also played a role. When announcing the controversial move in March 2021, the banks said footfall at the branches selected for closure fell by 60 per cent on average between 2017 and last year, and that its mobile phone app was now its “busiest channel”, with 430,000 users logging in each day.

The mobile phone app is seriously handy – of that there is no doubt – but how many of the elderly customers of the banks in Strokestown or Ballyhaunis would be able to use it at this time of their life is another issue. As for switching accounts from one bank to another, I sometimes feel a doctorate is often the key qualification needed to get this done properly and quickly.

What I consider most objectionable about all bank closures is the fact that equality for rural folks alongside their counterparts in cities just seems to go out the window. As a friend with a

shop said to me on the bank closure day, “maybe it is not so significant if you are in the city and there is another branch down the road, but this is a continuation of the erosion of a lot of businesses in rural Ireland. Are we second class citizens?”

In addition to claims about better online and telephone banking options, some of the banks closing say that An Post have entered into an arrangement with them which they say will pro-

“

The fact is that many older people prefer to have the independence of going to their local bank branch.

They want to mind their own business, and would prefer if it was kept that way.

tect local access to over-the-counter banking.

Customers will be able to make deposits and withdrawals at hundreds of post office branches. These will be effective at some stages and for specific transactions, but I for one would not be keen on possibly having to discuss my own family account business at a counter in the middle of any local post office. In my mother and father’s day the visit to the bank always had a much more serious tone to it. The bank was a place of importance. With due respect to post offices – many of them now fixed in very different settings – if I wanted to know about the interest rate I’m getting on my current account or a loan, I wouldn’t care for a debate in that ‘new’ public location.

The fact is that many older people prefer to have the independence of going to their local bank branch. They want to mind their own business, and would prefer if it was kept that way.

The agencies who look after the views of the elderly says that with this choice is gone in many places, there is now a greater risk of elder abuse, as people not in a position to travel or use online services will have to hand their financial affairs over to relatives, neighbours and friends. In the past we have sometimes seen the result of this in the courts (as prosecutions resulted). Nobody wants to see more of that.

Many people quite rightly feel this is a ‘slap in the face’ for people who kept the banks going for decades with their annual fees, that it poses a tremendous loss to locals. For years these ‘lit-

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

tle people’ have ignored a plethora of offers to change their business, to look to offers of lower interest rates or charges. This is their reward now. Does loyalty mean anything any more? It certainly doesn’t appear to.

I think the move to shut down the ATMs in many of these towns is also unforgivable. Before you even mention cashback services in shops, let me say that I hold the firm belief one shouldn’t have to go into a shop or a public house just to get cash for another service there that does not include a purchase for something in that premises. This move means people living in some communities will no longer have 24/7 access to cash. It really could have been avoided.

I remember when the bank in Lanesboro was closed down some years back and the same issue was flagged well before the closure date.

We had only campaigned as a community for the ATM to be put in a few years previously and here they were about to remove it again. I am pleased to say that the bank actively engaged with local business to try and find a new home on an outside wall for the ATM service, and Bernard Keane was progressive enough to allow the machine go into the external wall of his SuperValu store. That required vision, but it was done – and the town has 24-hour access to cash ever since.

Despite the growth in popularity of the cashless service, we really needs a commitment from the Central Bank that the banking network will not disappear, and that they will be proactive in ensuring that communities and vulnerable people will not once again be hit hardest.

I also feel an agreement of some type could be forged with the Credit Union movement around the country, as they have fine premises’ in most of the towns affected. The banks must be encouraged and indeed persuaded strongly that they must continue to provide this basic service for their customers. If it means subsidising the local credit union to open an ATM on their outside wall, then so be it. Some credit unions in larger towns already have the ATMs in. Others might well have done it by now if they were not being continuously pressured by the authorities to merge with neighbours or change their other traditional practices.

I have nothing but admiration for the stoic work done by volunteers in local credit unions down the years. It is time they were treated with a bit of respect for the work they do – and given the opportunity to expand instead of shrink their services. The public trust our credit unions and the people who run them, so maybe it’s time to reward that trust with some more responsibility for maintaining the crucial local banking service – and the sooner the better.

WRITE TO CIARAN!

Email People Columnist Ciaran at ciaranmullooly@gmail.com

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Calling all Roscommoners!

Nominations now open for awards recognising volunteers and community organisations Pictured is Cathy Jordan, who will feature in RTÉ One’s new two-part series, An tSlí.

Pictured are Cathal Poirtéir, Caroilin Callery, and Mary Kennedy, all of whom will feature in RTÉ One’s new two-part series, An tSlí.

Telling story of Strokestown estate during the Black ‘47 Next year is the 175th anniversary of Black ’47, and the history of the National Famine Way is at the very core of that terrible year. In commemoration, a two-part series entitled ‘An tSlí’ is set to begin on RTÉ One on October 26th.

Mary Kennedy will lead an emotional journey along Ireland’s Camino as part of the series, which aims to incorporate history, geography, music and dramatic reconstructions while learning the story of the National Famine Way. The route follows the trail of 1,490 people who were walked from the Strokestown House Estate in Roscommon to Dublin by their landlord’s bailiff and put on

Pictured are Mary Kennedy and Caroilin Callery, both of whom will feature in RTÉ One’s new two-part series, An tSlí.

ships to Québec in Canada. Mary Kennedy takes us on a journey along the 165km from Roscommon to Dublin, following in the footsteps of the tenants of Strokestown estate. Along the banks of the Royal Canal, there are hidden treasures, his-

49 letters calling for athletics track < DAN DOONER

Roscommon County Council has received a total of 49 letters from community and sporting organisations calling for an athletics track to be included in plans for a multimillion euro sports facility in Roscommon town.

Addressing Monday’s meeting of the local authority, Cllr. Orla Leyden asked when a review of the current plan, which was presented to members at September’s meeting, would take place. Director of Services Majella Hunt told members that the addition of a six-lane running track could cost in the region of €2 million.

CEO Eugene Cummins said the addition of a track “would have to make business sense” and that there was a significant difference between a running track and a training track.

Broadband Plan eight months behind schedule – Naughten

The National Broadband Plan is now running eight months behind schedule, according to Independent TD Denis Naughten.

Speaking in the Dáil on Thursday last, Deputy Naughten said: “Buried inside the Budget documentation was the admission that the National Broadband Plan is now running eight months behind schedule; that’s a further two months behind the timeline presented to the Oireachtas Communications Committee by the contractor just last month. In reality, this means that 75,000 fewer homes will have access to high-speed broadband at the end of next year than was planned when the contract was signed in November 2019”.

tory, stories and musical performances.

Episode one features the incredible history of Strokestown House, including a dramatic reconstruction of the killing of landlord Major Denis Mahon, the first landlord killed during the famine.

It will also feature artist Paula Stoke’s Famine Memorial, ‘1845: Momento Mori’, an installation of 1,845 hand-blown glass potatoes, as well as Cathy Jordan, who will be singing the haunting Famine ballad, ‘Na Fataí Bána’.

The killing of Major Mahon is told through dramatic reconstruction on the actual location where the assassination occurred in 1847. Mary talks with Jim Callery about his dedication to the story of the tenants of Strokestown, and travels the National Famine Way with Jim’s daughter Caroilin and renowned Famine writer Cathal Poirtéir. Caroilin and Cathal adopt the role of some of those original emigrants and tell their story in costume along the way.

The Roscommon Volunteer Centre are delighted to announce that they will be hosting this year’s Roscommon Volunteer Awards. This event allows the public to nominate outstanding volunteers and community organisations who have shown their dedication to making Roscommon a vibrant and thriving county in 2021.

The awards recognise the immense contribution volunteers and community organisations make to towns and villages across Roscommon, and the public are being called upon to nominate people and organisations that make a difference through volunteering.

The awards are open to individuals of all ages who volunteer in County Roscommon and all community-based organisation that operate within the county. Roscommon Volunteer Centre invites the public to consider nominating a volunteer or a community group for their outstanding contribution under these seven award areas: • Active Aging Volunteer of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Arts and Culture Champion of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Environmental Sustainability Champion of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Volunteer of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Community Involvement Sports Club of the Year (Organisation Category) • COVID-19 Community Response Award (Organisation Category) • Social Inclusion Community Initiative (Organisation Category) Each person nominated will receive a special thank you card from Roscommon Volunteer Centre. Nominations are currently open and will run for the month of October. More information about each category and about submitting a nomination can be found on volunteerroscommon.ie, or by contacting Shannette Budhai, Manager on 089 2199930 or at manager@volunteerroscommon.ie.

This year’s awards will culminate in an in-person awards ceremony, which will be held at The Abbey Hotel on November 26th, subject to public health guidelines at the time.

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Siobhan’s ‘open studio’ at Arts Centre Artist Siobhan Cox-Carlos recently commenced a tenday residency at the new art studios at Roscommon Arts Centre which runs until this Friday, October 22nd.

An open studio presents an opportunity to observe an artist working and see their new work in order to get an insight into their process.

Visits are by appointment only, in line with Covid regulations. Just phone Siobhan on 086-3647367 to either arrange an in-person viewing or a virtual tour and chat about her new work, which she is very happy to share.

Siobhan took up art as a hobby in her late twenties as a young mum and it quickly grew to be a lifelong passion. She continued studying art and design by attending GMIT part-time

Artist Siobhan Cox-Carlos

St Dominic’s launch Ireland’s biggest 50/50 draw St. Dominic’s GAA Club recently launched Ireland’s biggest 50/50 draw at Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery, where one lucky winner will claim a cash prize between €50,000 and €360,000 on December 30th.

All money raised will go towards the development of the St. Dominic’s GAA Club and tickets are currently available online at www.irelandsbiggest5050draw.ie.

As part of the draw, the club will donate a minimum of €5,000 to its chosen charity partner, Mayo-Roscommon Hospice.

All support for the draw would be greatly appreciated

by St. Dominic’s GAA Club’s members and players.

and then full-time at LCAD, where she was awarded an honours degree in Fine Art in 2004.

Siobhan’s paintings are full of colour and life and are often inspired by the local landscape, the mists and the atmospheric skies in the West of Ireland.

Siobhan’s work has been shortlisted for a French Residency in Hambly and Hambly, Enniskillen, and will feature in an exhibition there in November, with other shortlisted artists. She has also been awarded a solo show in Solas Art Centre in Ballinamore in March 2022.

You can see Siobhan’s work on her website, siobhancoxcarlos.com, and on Instagram via @siobhan_ cox_carlos.

For updates, check our social channels

St. Dominic’s GAA Club recently launched Ireland’s biggest 50/50 draw at Murray’s Bar in Knockcroghery, where one lucky winner will claim a cash prize between €50,000 and €360,000 on December 30th. Pic: St. Dominic’s GAA Facebook page

‘What the f**k would someone from Roscommon know about hurling?’

Scally’s new book on great GAA teams

Curraghboy native John Scally’s new book, ‘100 Great GAA Teams’ features two Roscommon teams. However, it is also punctuated by Roscommon interest throughout.

One of the teams featured in the book is the Cork hurling side of the 1990s, who were coached by the late Canon Michael O’Brien. Scally observes that he was a very kind man, but in full flight, he was an intimidating sight.

At one time, O’Brien was taking part in a press conference wherein one of the most challenging questions came from Donal Keenan, the Roscommon-born Gaelic Games correspondent with The Irish Independent at the time. Donal’s father (also Donal) had won two AllIreland medals with Roscommon in the 1940s and served as president of the GAA in the 1970s. Canon O’Brien was irked by Donal’s question and responded by asking in turn, “What the f**k would someone from Roscommon know about hurling?”!

‘100 Great GAA Teams’ by John Scally is available in all good bookshops now.

“

TAKE A BREAK It’s been a GOOD week for…

Society (on balance), with significant lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, facilitating further reopening of society as we continue to recover from the pandemic Rory McIllroy, with the Northern Irish golfer storming back into form, with all the swagger we associate with ‘peak Rory’, McIllroy winning his 20th PGA Tour title with a brilliant victory in The CJ Cup Athleague hurlers, with Padraig Mannion’s men recovering from having a man sent off to hold off brave Tremane in their unique inter-parish County Hurling Final, Athleague deservedly taking the honours on a 3-12 to 0-15 scoreline

It’s been a BAD week for…

Democracy, with the shocking murder of popular UK Conservative Party MP David Amess, who was brutally killed while meeting constituents Nigel Farage (not that he’d agree), who, while giving as good as he got in most of the exchanges, was put in his place with regard to his knowledge of the history of Ireland when being interviewed by Claire Byrne on her RTE 1 show on Monday night Some pubs, with confirmation on Tuesday that table service will remain mandatory until February, meaning customers are not permitted to sit or stand at bar counters...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

The things people say…

“There is absolutely nothing in any of it; it is a complete untruth and that’s where it is. I can’t control that. Music-wise, Ciaran and I might not always agree about stuff but that’s really the size of it” - Mayo manager James Horan clears the air after speculation that there are tensions between him and selector Ciaran McDonald (while leaving many of us curious about their respective tastes in music)

Andrew Scott (Irish actor, 45 on Thursday)

Ryan Reynolds (Canadian actor and producer, 45 on Saturday)

Drake Graham Amandla Stenberg (Canadian rapper, (American actress and singer and songwriter, singer, 23 on Saturday) 35 on Sunday)

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2021

19 23rd October - 25th October

Lots of fun in store at Creggs Harvest Festival!

Creggs Harvest Festival is back for the October Bank Holiday Weekend and this year’s festival has lots of outdoor fun for all the family.

Due to Covid restrictions, all of the activities organised as part of this year’s festival are outdoors and the event promises to have something for all ages and is an opportunity to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Those taking part in events are asked to observe all social distancing requirements and to take all necessary precautions in terms of sanitisation and to follow the advice of stewards.

The festival gets underway on Saturday, October 23rd with an All-Ireland Junior Cup game between Creggs and Kilfeacle at The Green, home of Creggs RFC. As current champions, Kilfeacle will be strong favourites for Saturday’s game. The four top teams in the league in each province qualify for the Junior Cup, so sixteen teams compete on a knockout basis.

Saturday’s game is the first round and promises to bring lots of fun and colour to the village.

Come along and support the team in what is a major game for the local club.

Sunday begins with a Children’s Fancy Dress Parade from Dolan’s carpark to the Wildlife Park, where there will be lots of Halloween fun for the younger visitors, including face-painting and Halloween games.

The annual dog show gets underway with registration at 12 noon followed by the show at 1 pm. With a variety of classes on offer, there is something to suit every pooch, from pup to poodle, spaniel to sheepdog.

Keeping the outdoor theme, there will be a heritage walk starting at 2 pm which will take walkers on a route to the King’s Grave near Hollygrove School. The walk will leave from outside the Heritage Centre at 2 pm and those who want to, can meet the walkers a half hour later at Hollygrove School and hear all about the King that is buried in Curragh-

FLASHBACK: Pictured at a previous Creggs Harvest Festival were John Whyte, Pat and Caroline O’Neill. Picture: Andrew Fox

boughla from local historian Larry Kilcommins.

On Monday, there will be lots of fun in the village. A car boot sale will take place along the street from 12 noon to 4 pm. At 11.30 pm, a wreath will be laid at the Parnell Monument. This year marks the 175th anniversary of Parnell’s birth, the 135th anniversary of his death and the 75th anniversary of the unveiling of the Parnell Monument in Creggs by Eamon de Valera in 1946. After the laying of the wreath, local historian Martin Duffy will give a short talk on Parnell and the Creggs connection.

After the talk, at 12 noon, a heritage cycle will take place, starting from the Parnell Monument. The cycle will take a route to Donamon Castle and back to the village, stopping off at some points of interest along the way. Those taking part are asked to wear helmets and Hi Vis vests.

At 2 pm, there will be a Car Treasure Hunt. Entry for teams

2021

of four is €20 and there will be a cash prize for the first team home and trophies for the first three teams back with the winning tokens. This promises to be a fun-filled event, where family teams will be tested on their local knowledge. Those who took part in the event two years ago will no doubt be back for more fun and games and should start brushing up on their local knowledge well in advance!

A clay pigeon shoot will also take place from 12.30 pm to 4 pm and for the shooting enthusiasts this promises to be a fun event. There will be music in local pubs nightly (see ads for details).

Creggs Harvest Festival 2021 offers a variety of events for all ages. Organisers are mindful of current Covid regulations and want to ensure that all who attend events can do so in a safe manner.

Join in the fun at this year’s event and celebrate the yearend by getting out and about in Creggs this weekend.

20

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2021 Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Patrick J Neilan LLP SOLICITORS

Church Street, Roscommon

Tel: (090) 6626245 or (090) 6626115

DX: 90 004 Roscommon E-mail: pjneilan@securemail.ie Fax: (090) 6626990

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival

23rd October - 25th October

Glinsk and Creggs on the double in 1971! < LARRY CUNNINGHAM

Fifty years ago, the footballers of Glinsk and Creggs achieved an unprecedented minor and U-21 championship double in what was arguably the greatest year in the history of GAA in the parish of Glinsk and Kilbegnet.

The minor team blazed a trail of glory by overcoming St. Brigid’s, St. Aidan’s, St. Ronan’s, and Oran, before encountering Castlerea St. Kevin’s in the county final.

St.Coman’s Park was the setting for the final, with Mick Hoare as referee. All roads led to Roscommon town on what was a cold, crisp, but sunny November day. With defences on top, there was very little scoring in the first half, and the teams remained deadlocked at half-time: Glinsk 1-1, Castlerea 1-1. Andy Quinn, with

1-1, accounted for the Glinsk scores.

Entering the closing stages, the sides were still level. Then, John Donnellan, on receipt of a clever cross-field ball by James Shevlin, gained possession and sent an unstoppable shot to the net for the winning goal, leaving the final score Glinsk 2-4 Castlerea 1-4.

Others to hit the target for Glinsk in a hardfought second half were Mickey Lundy, Micheal Collins and Luke Cunniffe.

The historic Glinsk team lined out as follows: Seamus Conama, Kevin Costello, John Joe Cunningham, John Pettit, Padraic Conama, Mickey Curley, Micheal Egan, James Shevlin, Mickey Lundy (0-1), Micheal Collins (0-1), PJ Shanagher, Luke Cunniffe (0-1), John Donnellan (1-0), John Dowd (captain), Andy

Quinn (1-1). Subs: Tom Timothy, Godfrey Warde, Paddy Quinn, Paddy Cunningham, Donie Fahy.

The road to glory: Round 1: Glinsk 2-5 St. Brigid’s 0-1; Round 2: Glinsk 4-6 St. Aidan’s 2-3; Round 3: Glinsk 2-5 St. Ronan’s 2-7; Semi-Final: Glinsk 3-6 Oran 0-4; Final: Glinsk 2-4 Castlerea 1-4.

The foundation stones for the U-21 success were laid in 1967, when the Glinsk minor team was resurrected after a lapse of twelve years.

This decision heralded a new beginning for football in the parish, and having played a number of challenge games, Glinsk embarked on a very successful championship campaign before losing to eventual champions Roscommon Gaels in the Mid-Board final. Amazingly, thirteen of this side would go on and play a prominent role in the

1971 U-21 success.

In round one, the Glinsk/Creggs combination defeated Pádraig Pearses and followed up with wins over Athleague and Clann na nGael to clinch a county final place against a starstudded Castlerea side.

From early on, it was obvious that the speed, fitness and determination of the Creggs lads was a major factor, as a very experienced Castlerea side struggled to get to the pace of the game. Early points from Marty Hegarty, Tommy Dowd, Frank Brandon and Tommie Lohan were followed by a brilliant goal from Frank Brandon, leaving Creggs with a comfortable six-point lead at the interval.

Two massive 45s by Markie Fitzmaurice and a goal from Tommy Dowd put the icing on the cake and ensured that the U-21 title was also coming to the parish. The victory was all the sweeter as it came against Castlerea, who had defeated Creggs by three points in the 1970 semi-final.

Best for Castlerea were

Harry Keegan, Tom Silke, John Kirrane, Con Nolan, Jim McDonnell, Mickey Freyne and Pat Shallow.

Creggs: Gerry Kelly, Mickey Curley, John Joe Cunningham, Joe Cunniffe, Michael Kilcommons (captain), Markie Fitzmaurice (0-2), John Hegarty, Billy Lundy, Mickey Lundy, Tommie Lohan (0-1), Tommy Dowd (1-1), Marty Hegarty (0-1), John Dowd, Frank Brandon (1-2), Larry Cunningham.

Subs: John Pettit, James Shevlin, Jackie Quinn, Micheal Egan, Paddy Quinn.

John Joe Cunningham, Ger Kelly, Joe Cunniffe, Michael Kilcommons, Markie Fitzmaurice, John Hegarty, Billy Lundy, Marty Hegarty, Tommy Dowd, Tommie Logan, Frank Brandon, Larry Cunningham and Jackie Quinn all featured on the minor team defeated in the 1967 Mid-Board final.

The road to glory: Round 1: Creggs 3-11 Pádraig Pearses 2-6; Round 2: Creggs 3-15 Athleague 0-8; SemiFinal: Creggs 3-6 Clann na nGael 0-5; Final: Creggs 2-7 Castlerea 0-7.

Best wishes to the

Creggs Harvest Festival

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

PLEASE SUPPORT THE CREGGS RUGBY LOTTO

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

Watch Out

for the New €50,000 Prize Fundraising Draw for the New Dressing Rooms & Gym. Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice@oireachtas.ie

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival

Michael

Fitzmaurice TD Mobile: 086 1914565

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

21

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

CREGGS HARVEST FESTIVAL 2021

23rd October - 25th October Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

FOR ALL YOUR Electrical Wiring & Lighting Accessories Industrial -Commercial -Dometic- Agricultural Henry Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6625644 Email: Info@mgfelect.com

JG

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Creggs...U-21 champions in 1971. Photo courtesy of Larry Cunningham

John Gavin Motors Sales & Service Creggs, Co. Galway Mob.: (087) 2345857

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

JP Connelly & Son Ltd Creggs, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 090 66 21121 or 086 7391014 Tractors & Machinery Sales & Repairs l

OPEN 6 DAYS

l

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Glinsk...minor champions in 1971. Photo courtesy of Larry Cunningham

Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Dolan’s Public House CREGGS, CO. GALWAY

Sat (23rd) : DJ BROWNE (9.30 pm-late) Sun (24th): STREETWISE (7 pm-9 pm) Mon (25th) – Closing the Harvest Festival...

It’s...THE FEATHERHEADS (5 pm-7 pm)

4” X 2col €100 + Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Martina’s Fashions Ballygar, Co. Galway.

Tel.: (090) 66 24561

• Large Selection of Ladies and Children’s

Autumn and Winter Wear - NOW IN STOCK • Giftwear Also Available •

Crean & Co Accountants & Tax Consultants

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon.

2021

Tel. (090) 6626680

Email:info@creanaccountants.ie Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival

Gannon Agri Contractors 2” X 2col €50 +

Creggs, Co. Galway Tel: 086 2538169

Gannon Brothers Creggs Ltd.

Plant Hire, Complete Mobile Crushing, Screening & Rock Breaking Services

CREGGS, CO. GALWAY Mobile: 087 2538168 (Alan) Email: info@gannonbrothers.ie Wishing the Creggs Harvest Festival every success Best wishes to Creggs Harvest Festival from

Padraic Kelly

Plumbing &

Heating Glinsk, Co. Galway

Mobile: 087 2685269

22

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Business

Further lifting of Covid restrictions this Friday < DAN DOONER

The Government announced a revised reopening plan earlier this week which will see the further easing of Covid-19 restrictions from this Friday (October 22nd).

The new plan will see the reo-

pening of the remaining sectors of the hospitality, entertainment and night-time economy including a return to normal trading hours for pubs and the reopening of nightclubs for the first time in 18 months.

The reopening, however, is subject to the full range of

protective measures being in place including social distancing, facemasks, and the requirement for a Covid vaccination or recovery certificate for indoor hospitality and events.

Table service will be maintained in hospitality settings

with ten adults per table now permitted. Contact tracing will continue while all indoor events must be fully seated.

Sporting events can now return to full capacity as too can religious services and weddings albeit with full protective measures in place.

The return to workplaces will continue on a cautious basis but the requirement for hotel and home quarantine following travel to certain countries will be stood down.

Proof of vaccination, immunity or a negative PCR test as well as a passenger locator

form will still be required.

The new plan for the reopening of society has so far been met with mixed reviews with the Vintners Federation of Ireland describing the retention of table service in pubs as “another devastating blow” for the sector.

County loses 16 pubs due to Covid pandemic Table service to remain until 2022 < DAN DOONER

An Taoiseach, Micheal Martin.

16 pubs have closed in County Roscommon since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic while nationally, 349 premises have shut down according to recent

figures published by the Revenue Commissioners.

Both the VFI and LVA claim the revelation of a 5 per cent drop in pub licence renewals is a dramatic escalation in the crisis faced by pubs, as this week the Government confirmed that table service will be maintained as part of the latest easing of restrictions.

The Vintners Federation of Ireland described this week’s announcement as a “devastating blow” to the sector.

VFI Chief Executive Padraig

Roscommon finishes just short of ‘Clean’ status in latest IBAL survey < DAN DOONER

Roscommon town placed 24 in the latest Irish Business Against Litter survey, just short of ‘Clean’ status with litter issues once again reported at the Tesco bottle banks and industrial waste on a site adjacent to the town’s fire station.

The An Taisce report for Roscommon town stated: ‘Again, Roscommon town has finished just short of ‘Clean’ status.

The three approach roads got the top litter grade, creating a positive first impression of the town.

‘The Main Street was looking very fresh, recently repaved – it looks great, and the streetscape was further enhanced by ‘olde’ style street lamps and attractive wooden planter boxes/seating.

‘There was a notable improvement at the Bring Centre (Tesco) compared to 2020 but there was still a litter issue to the rear of the units.

‘By far the lowest ranked site surveyed was a site beside the Fire Station – it wasn’t just casually littered but subject to longterm abuse and neglect with construction/ industrial waste very much in evidence’.

While the county town was graded as ‘Moderately Littered’, the number of areas th

deemed clean nationally rose from 17 to 23 with 68 per cent of towns showing an improvement from last year.

Portlaoise, which was at the very foot of the table back in 2010, topped the rankings, ahead of Leixlip and past winner Ennis.

IBAL’s Conor Horgan commented: “With local authority cleaning schedules normalising again and volunteer groups re-engaged in clean-ups across the country, our towns are almost as clean as two years ago. This is still some way short of where they were in 2014, however”.

By contrast, the majority of urban areas fared worse than in 2020, among them Dublin, Cork and Limerick City Centres, which were all deemed ‘littered’.

The survey also showed a near 30 per cent increase in the prevalence of PPE masks on our streets and increase in alcohol-related litter such as cans and bottles.

IBAL was once again critical of the failure of local authorities to address sites which they have previously highlighted as heavily littered, especially in urban areas.

Of the 103 such sites exposed last year, fewer than half have been cleaned up in 2021.

Cribben said: “The Government decision to keep restrictions in place until February at the earliest is another devastating blow to the pub trade. Over 92 per cent of people are vaccinated so we could have easily removed mandatory table service by limiting entry to customers with vaccine passes.

Instead, Government has guaranteed the closure of more pubs over the coming months.

“The return of normal trading hours is simply a fig leaf for the fact bar counters remain off

limits. This restriction alone will mean pubs can’t operate at full capacity and will make continued trading impossible for many of our members.

“We also have to contend with the glaring anomaly of nightclubs reopening where, according to the Taoiseach, people will be permitted to dance while customers in pubs won’t be allowed sit at the bar counter.

“The pub trade has battled with uncertainty since March 2020 and today’s news will only deepen

the worry for publicans and their staff. In a sector that is struggling to find and retain employees these developments will only exacerbate staffing problems.

“We thought this crisis was coming to an end on Friday but now face the prospect of severely curtailed trading through the busiest period of the year. Government cannot allow the sector to limp on in this fashion and must come back with a concrete plan for the pub trade,” Mr. Cribben concluded.

Insurance companies cannot pocket savings from lower payouts – Naughten

‘Discuss AI’: Niall Murray (ADAPT researcher at TUS) pictured with Dan and Isla Mordan (son and daughter of ATIM cluster manager, Caitríona Mordan).

‘Discuss AI’ event in Athlone next month ADAPT researchers at TUS and the Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) cluster are collaborating to deliver an exciting programme of events entitled ‘Discuss AI’ to explore the world of artificial intelligence and how it will shape our future.

A key element of Discuss AI is a ‘citizens’ think-in’ on AI in the Radisson Hotel in Athlone on November 11th, as part of Science Week.

Members of the public are invited to join local software companies and ADAPT researchers from TUS: Midlands (Athlone campus) to discuss everyday technology like voice assistants, smartphones and fitness trackers. What impact do these devices have on our lives and on society as a whole? What are the implications of emerging AI innovations such as these? Members of the public can join this discussion forum in person or online.

Independent TD has said that any savings from reduced insurance payouts must be passed on to customers rather than pocketed by the insurance industry.

Deputy Naughten was reacting to a recent report by the Personal Injuries Assessment Board that the average injury payout has fallen from just under €24,000 to just over €14,000.

“High insurance premiums are having a devastating impact on our economy forcing and forcing businesses to close,” stated Denis Naughten, who has campaigned strongly in Dáil Éireann for the introduction of new guidelines to reduce payouts.

“While it is clear there is no single measure that will resolve all of the challenges and issues with insurance, it is imperative that when savings are made as a direct result of actions by Government and Dáil Éireann that these are passed on to customers.

“We are now in a position where we can see significant progress in the area, but the progress on reductions in claims will only have the desired effect if we see a significant reduction in insurance premiums,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

23

NewsPeople ADVERTORIAL

Celebrate ‘Loughtoberfest’ with Black Donkey Brewing!

Ballinlough’s Black Donkey Brewing have put a new spin on the world’s most famous beer drinking festival ‘Oktoberfest’, and as part of a special promotion this month will offer free shipping on all orders over €30 when you visit www. blackdonkeybeer.com.

‘Loughtoberfest’ means you can mix and match in order to design your very own bespoke case of Black Donkey beers fresh from Ballinlough.

The promotion will run throughout the month of October and customers can avail of this special offer by entering the code ‘ROSPEEP’ at the online checkout.

Owner and brewer, Richard Siberry, said that while the Covid-19 pandemic had raised significant challenges, there is substantial scope to develop Black Donkey Brewing.

“Our licence allows us to sell directly to our customers and we have had great support in Roscommon and Mayo. Our online presence also enables us to get our beer out to the rest of the country and we are doing quite well with that,” he said.

“We continue to support local retailers and we also work hard to serve our online customer base too”.

Richard says that an important step in the further growth of Black Donkey would be the promotion of the brewery as a tourist site and he has already received a number

of enquiries from tour groups, from home and abroad.

“There is a high volume of traffic passing by the brewery each week and a tour of the brewery would be a great way of breaking up some of those journeys. There’s really nothing like what we have developed here anywhere else in this region,” he said.

Richard’s experience of the business in New York suggests that ‘tap rooms’ are vital in helping breweries thrive and he says a fully developed tourist experience would benefit both Ballinlough and Roscommon.

The development of local boating, trail walking facilities and Lake O’Flynn,

in which the Black Donkey proprietor played an instrumental role, could be the kick-start local tourism needs and Richard envisions his brewery adding to the overall visitor experience.

“We had a busload of American tourists here recently and I would say at least 50 per cent of visitors to Black Donkey have been from overseas – so the demand is clearly there,” he said.

“We’ve had a lot of requests for tours from both foreign visitors and those living in Ireland and we expect to be inundated when things open up fully next year”.

As Richard points out, one of Fáilte Ireland’s most visited tourist attractions is a brewery (Guinness in Dublin), and the drafting of new legislation allowing local breweries to develop ‘tap rooms’ as well as enhanced customer facilities would greatly benefit local businesses like Black Donkey Brewery.

For now though, ‘Loughtoberfest’ is the perfect way to support your local brewery while sampling its wide range of products.

Opening hours, free shipping The Black Donkey Brewery Shop is open Thursdays and Fridays 10 am to 6 pm and Saturday 11 am to 4 pm. You can also order online at www.blackdonkeybeer.com and enjoy free shipping for the month of October.

24

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

FarmingPeople

ICMSA: Rigid target reductions will be overtaken by science The President of ICMSA, Pat McCormack, has said that the reported cuts in agri-related emissions will be “a huge challenge and one that can only be contemplated – much less achieved – with massive support and commitment from every level of Government in Ireland”.

Mr. McCormack said that his association was convinced that it was possible to continue developing the farming sector while simultaneously cutting agri emissions and said the notion that farming had to come to a full stop while the emis-

sion lowering programme accelerated is neither possible or even desirable.

“We think that the worst thing Irish farming and agri-food can do now is nail ourselves to a rigid programme that we all know will be overtaken by science and data over the next few years.

“We already know that the reductions under the Teagasc MACC will be delivered and we already know that research is well under way on similar projects that will lower emissions without affecting cow numbers and production volumes.

“ICMSA believes that this has to be a

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‘Moving Target’ scenario where we can all see over a three-year period where the data is going and where we will have to maybe go harder or ease back,” he said.

On the question of Government support for the sector, the ICMSA President was scathing: “Well, if the level of support we got in the recent Budget was any indicator, Ireland hasn’t a hope of hitting these reductions.

“There’s a time when the Government has to stop preaching and start spending and we are at the point now – in fact, we passed it some time ago”.

The President of ICMSA, Pat McCormack

No climate justice with emissions reductions – Macra The news that agriculture must reduce its emissions by 21 to 30 per cent by 2030 lacks climate justice, according to Macra na Feirme President John Keane.

Climate justice is about the fair treatment of all people and the freedom from discrimination in the creation of policies. The blanket reductions disproportionately affect young farmers by limiting their ability to enter the sector and creating instability for those who have recently heavily invested in their businesses.

“Where is the climate justice?

When 100 global companies are responsible for 71 percent of global emissions and not a word on their part in reducing climate change,” said Macra na Feirme National President John Keane.

Any solution to an environmental problem needs to take into consideration the unjust and unequal situation. Placing a cap on the agriculture sector in Ireland will ex-

clude young people from entering the sector. We are already facing a crisis in Ireland with regard to the age breakdown of farmers, placing further restrictions on the sector and limiting young new entrants will only further deepen the crisis.

“Young new entrants into the

sector are more educated than previous generations and understand that climate change is the defining issue of our generation.

It is this group of farmers who are going to make the changes needed to reduce carbon emissions but their ability to enter

the sector is limited,” Keane added.

Irish agriculture which is renowned for quality and traceability across the world needs the government to stand by it not to stand on it. Irish farming is among the most sustainable across the world.

With the population estimated to grow by 25 per cent over the next 30 years more food is going to be required to feed the world not less. Moving food production from Ireland to other countries in the world where production is less efficient will exacerbate climate change, the exact opposite of what is desired.

“We don’t get to be complacent; we are young and knowledgeable and acknowledge change needs to happen; but, we need to be given a chance to enter the sector in order to change it and the current targets threaten to exclude young farmers from entering the sector,” Keane concluded.

Extra resources for TB Programme vital to reduce levels in national herd – IFA IFA Animal Health Chairman, Pat Farrell, has said the additional funding commitment in Budget 2022 for the TB Eradication Programme, and in particular the €6 million for the Wildlife Control Programme, are important commitments from the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue.

IFA had sought a doubling of resources in the Wildlife Programme as a key component in reducing levels of TB in the national herd.

“This additional funding must be utilised immediately to put boots on the ground to deal with the TB problems caused by wildlife on our farms,” Mr. Farrell said.

The IFA Chairman also acknowledged the announcement to re-establish a Deer Management Group to address the wide range of issues caused by the increasing deer population, including the TB threat.

“TB continues to be a huge cost and stress for farmers and their families and eradication of the disease in the shortest feasible time frame must be the objective,” he said.

Mr. Farrell said measures must be scientifically based and practical to implement at farm level. Farmers have to be supported through the huge imposition of herd restrictions where possible, and fully compensated for costs incurred and losses experienced where this is not provided.

Concluding, the IFA Chairman said: “Additional resources provided by the Minister are a significant first step in addressing TB levels. They must be fully utilised and built on to resolve the reservoir of TB in the wildlife population”.

IFA Animal Health Chairman, Pat Farrell.

25

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

FarmingPeople

Feighan welcomes 70% BPS advance payments Local Minister of State Frank Feighan has welcomed the recent announcement by Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue that advanced payments will commence under the Basic Payment Scheme.

“It is also a priority for the Department is the efficient issuing of scheme payments to farmers,” Deputy Feighan said.

“I understand from the Minister for Agriculture that the BPS advance payment is commencing today at a rate of 70 per cent, which is an increase on the 50 per cent normally allowed under regulation. Payments will be visible in farmers’ bank accounts in the coming days and the Department will continue to process, as a matter of urgency, all remaining cases for pay-

IFA: Minister must deliver for farmers on Climate Action and CAP

IFA President Tim Cullinan led a delegation to meet the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue.

“The meeting was a full and frank exchange of views. We left the Minister in no doubt about the depth of feeling amongst farmers about the current direction of Government policy towards farming,” he said.

“The Minister gave a commitment that he would be coming forward with a budget including national co-financing for CAP Pillar II schemes, including targeted support for suckler, sheep and tillage farmers, within the next week”.

The Minister also advised that the Government would be announcing Ireland’s carbon budgets and sectoral emissions ceilings shortly.

“These are two massive decisions for the future of Irish farming. Minister McConalogue’s tenure will be judged on how the Government delivers on these two issues,” he said.

“Our recent protests showed that farmer anger on the ground is building. The Government must take this message onboard. Farmers and the agri-sector are the backbone of the rural economy and we won’t be sacrificed to pacify the Green Party”.

Castlerea MART WATCH This past week saw numbers of stock presented for sale peak with large numbers presented on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Trade remains strong for all quality lots presented, with plainer type stock tending to be a little harder sold, but in some cases, such as heifer weanlings, both prices and trade was improved, especially for the quality lots.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,140 to €2,330 for a Charolais cow and her heifer calf at foot. Springers made from €700 to €2,440 per head. Calves/runners: Lots made from €240 to €760 for continentals types.

There were 330 bullocks on offer at our sale on October 11th and store bullocks made up to €1,195 over their weight while heavier lots made up to €1,730.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 21st) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

Sample prices for heifers: Sim 390kgs €1420, Lm 425kgs €1130, Lm 370kgs €1090, Lm 495kgs €1370, Ch 460kgs €1210, AA 474kgs €1190, Lm 635kgs €1620, Ch 570kgs €1540, AA 600kgs €1500, Ch 570kgs €1480, Ch 630kgs €1570.

Dry cows: Ch 825kgs €1830, AA 875kgs €1830, Lm 725kgs €1790, Sh 825kgs €1770, Lm 680kgs €1240, Lm 535kgs €970, Fr 565kgs €440.

Weanling bulls: Chx 190kgs €700, BBx 295kgs €1080, Ch 275kgs €1030, Lm 285kgs €940, Ch 275kgs €920, Ch 335kgs €1180, BBX 360kgs €1160, Ch 310kgs €1140.

Weanling heifers: Sim 280kgs €1120, Ch 275kgs €900, Ch 255kgs €990, Lm 270kgs €830, AA 270kgs €670, Ch 325kgs €1270, Ch 300kgs €1270, Ch 300kgs €1200, BB 345kgs €1110.

Bullocks: Lmx 455kgs €1350, AA 475kgs €1290, Ch 540kgs €1530, Lm 535kgs €1430, Ch 535kgs €1400, Ch 580kgs €1500, Lm 570kgs €1490, Ch 625kgs €1820, Lm 780kgs €1730, AA 695kgs €1520.

ment as they meet scheme criteria.

“Many farmers in across my constituency will warmly welcome this prompt payment of the BPS while Payments under the 2021 Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme (ANC) which started in September are also continuing as more cases are cleared for payment,” Deputy Feighan concluded.

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50 Excellent Quality in calf Springing Heifers (Simm X & Lim X) in calf to Lim Stock Bull - calving 1st November onwards – some of the Heifers are 4 & 5 Stars ---------------------IFA President Tim Cullinan

Roscommon MART WATCH We had another large sale of excellentquality stock on offer at our weekly Friday sale on October 15th. Trade continues to be firm, with plenty of customers sourcing stock.

Bullocks averaged from €2.30 per kilo up to €2.91 per kilo, and heifers made from an average of €2.45 per kilo up to €3.72 per kilo.

Again this week, there was a good entry of dry cows, with all lots being sold bar one. Lots averaged from €1.84 per kilo up to €2.29 per kilo.

This Friday, October 22nd, we will host our special sale of bullocks and general sale of heifers and dry cows.

We had another good entry of stock at our weekly sale of weanlings and suckler cows on Tuesday, October 19th. Trade was lively with plenty of customers bidding both at the ringside and online.

Prices for weanling bulls fetched from an average of €2.63 per kilo up to €4.16 per kilo, weanling heifers made from an average of €2.61 per kilo up to €3.85 per kilo, and springers made from €1,580 up to €2,000.

Our end of the month special sale of weanlings takes place on Tuesday, October 26th, at 4 pm. There will also be a special entry of fifty excellent-quality springing heifers.

There was a smaller entry on offer at our weekly sale for lambs and cast ewes on Wednesday, October 20th, with an improvement in trade from the previous week. Finished lambs made up to €152, store lambs made up to €123, and stag ewes made up €152.

Sales continue as usual at Roscommon Mart on Wednesday next, October 27th, at 11 am.

The yard open at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note that all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set.

The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live. com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Simm X 970kgs €2100, Lim X 875kgs €1890, Char 850kgs €1840, Lim X 780kgs €1790, Char X 795kgs €1730, AAX 805kgs €1690, Char X 765kgs

€1670, Lim X 605kgs €1270, AAX 655kgs €1300, Simm X 685kgs €1450, Char X 700kgs €1520, Simm X 760kgs €1560.

Heifers: Lim X 595kgs €2000, Char X 680kgs €1910, BBX 635kgs €1900, Lim X 510kgs €1900, Char X 685kgs €1890, Lim X 535kgs €1850, Lim X 515kgs €1800, Lim X 535kgs €1850, BBX 565kgs €1700, BBX 550kgs €1680, 3 Char X 560kgs €1610, AA 625kgs €1580, Lim X 530kgs €1490, Char X 555kgs €1520, Char X 530kgs €1490, Lim X 490kgs €1450, Char X 490kgs €1420, Char X 485kgs €1340, 3 Char X 486kgs €1310, PTX 395kgs €1150.

Bullocks: Lim X 655kgs €1540, Char X 725kgs €1500, Lim X 685kgs €1480, Char X 610kgs €1470, Char X 630kgs €1450, Char X 405kgs €1020, Lim X 480kgs €1400, BBX 485kgs €1280, AAX 480kgs €1190, Char X 480kgs €1200 and Char X 405kgs €1020.

Weanling heifers: Char X 380kgs €1290 €3.39 per kilo, Char X 390kgs €1230 - €3.15 per kilo, Char X 395kgs €1110 - €2.81 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €1100 - €3.28 per kilo, Lim X 300kgs €1040 - €3.46 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €930 €2.95 per kilo, Lim X 300kgs €800 - €2.93 per kilo, Lim X 295kgs €870 - €2.94 per kilo, 2 Char X 322kgs €880 - €2.72 per kilo, Char X 260kgs €750 - €2.88 per kilo.

Weanling bulls: Char X 380kgs €1300 - €3.42 per kilo, Char X 355kgs €1290 - €3.63 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €1290 - €4.16 per kilo, Char X 360kgs €1070 - €2.74 per kilo, Char X 350kgs €1140 - €3.25 per kilo, Char X 300kgs €1130 €3.76 per kilo, Lim X 395kgs €1080 - €2.73 per kilo, Lim X 320kgs €1030 - €3.21 per kilo, Lim X 335kgs €970 - €2.89 per kilo, BBX 320kgs €1010 - €3.15 per kilo, Lim X 315kgs €940 €2.98 per kilo, BBX 335kgs €940 - €2.80 per kilo, Lim X 285kgs €880 - €3.08 per kilo, AAX 255kgs €860 - €3.37 per kilo.

Finished lambs: 56kgs €152, 60.4kgs €150, 53.8kgs €149, 50.7kgs €147, 52.2kgs €146, 49.3kgs €143, 49kgs €142, 46.8kgs €140, 47.8kgs €135.

Store lambs: 40.6kgs €123, 36.2kgs €120, 36.3kgs €116, 36.7kgs €113, 35.6kgs €105.

Date for your Diary Tuesday 2nd November @ 5 p.m.

Clearance Sale of 50 in Calf Cows Red Lim X & Char X For Eamon Coyle, Longford (changing system of farming)

All 2nd to 6th Calvers - in calf to 5 Star P.B. Char Bulls Mainly due February to April Also usual Sale of Weanlings at 4 p.m.

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

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

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Saturday, October 23rd

Irish Simmental Society Premier Sale @ 12pm.

Approx 57 Bulls and 78 Heifers ----------------------

Saturday, October 30th @ 1 p.m.

Show & Sale of Pedigree Vendeen Sheep

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Businesses: Reach your target market!

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26

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople

Residents welcome ‘Bog road’ enhancements!

A popular walking and cycling route – the so-called ‘Bog Road’ in the Newtown/Carrowmore/Clooncundra area outside Roscommon Town – has recently been enhanced.

Following a campaign by local residents, Roscommon County Council resurfaced large sections of the road and cleared intrusive overgrowth which had threatened to make it impassable.

Three benches have also been installed, meaning walkers/cyclists can take a break if they wish to when enjoying the amenity.

The road is popular with local residents and is bordered by spectacular hedgerows, shrubs and flowers, a setting that very much celebrates the beauty of nature.

At an informal gathering of residents recently, Cllr. Marty McDermott and Roscommon County Council were thanked for their excellent work on the project.

Local resident Paul Healy welcomed all present and thanked Roscommon County Council for conducting the works. Mr. Healy said that Cllr. McDermott had been instrumental in arranging for the enhancements to be carried out. He said residents were very grateful to Cllr. McDermott for his input and support.

Seamus Beirne also addressed the gathering. He paid tribute to Cllr.

McDermott and to the relevant Council engineer. With regard to the provision of the benches, Mr. Beirne also acknowledged the support of Niall Reynolds of Roscommon County Council.

Describing the route as a “beautiful amenity” Cllr. Marty McDermott said that residents deserved to see it being upgraded as large potholes and intrusive branches/briars had been causing difficulty.

Thanking the relevant engineer and Roscommon County Council for their favourable response, Cllr. McDermott commended local residents on their commitment to the conservation of the area. He said he was delighted to have been in a position to respond positively when approached by residents about the then declining condition of the road. Now that the bog road has been enhanced, he wished local residents many happy times enjoying the amenity.

Cllr. Marty McDermott pictured addressing local residents as refurbishment works on the ‘Bog road’ at Newtown, Carrowmore and Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon were completed. Pic: Mick McCormack

Residents of Newtown, Carrowmore and Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon recently gathered to view completed works on the nearby ‘Bog road’. Pic: Mick McCormack

Residents of Newtown, Carrowmore and Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon recently gathered to view completed works on the nearby ‘Bog road’. Pic: Mick McCormack

Residents of Newtown, Carrowmore and Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon recently gathered to view completed works on the nearby ‘Bog road’. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon County Council recently carried out some refurbishment works on the popular ‘Bog road’ at Newtown, Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

27

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY PARTNERS NEW TO THE MARKET

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET

3 B/R Residence known as “The Presbytery

3 B/R Residence on Approx. 3.13 acres

LOCATED AT

LOCATED AT

BREEDOGUE, CLOONACARROW , BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON F52 KT20 AMV €10 €100,0 0,00 00

POLLRANNY, CASTLEPLUNKETT, ROSCOMMON F45 TR60 AMV €125 €125,0 ,00 00

A 3 bedroom detached two-storey residence, extending to approx. 1,540 sq. ft., the property was originally constructed in approx. 1900’s and is in need of work and modernisation throughout. The ground floor comprises of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, utility, W.C., hot-press and storage space beneath the stairs. Proceeding to the first floor is a landing, 3 bedrooms, main bathroom and W.C. Certified with a G BER Certificate, the property is heated via oil fired central heating and 2 solid fuel feature fireplaces in the living room and dining room.

Double glazed windows are fitted throughout the property. Externally the property sits on a generous size site with lawns surrounding the house, mature trees and a spacious driveway. There is also a shed with ample storage to the side of the property.

BER G Legal: Callan Tansey Solicitors, Boyle (071) 966 2019 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

A 3 bedroom bungalow residence which comes to market with approx. 3.13 acres of agricultural land. The bungalow extends to Approx. 821 sq. ft. and is presented in good condition throughout. Living accommodation is comprised of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, 3 bedrooms and main bathroom. The property is heated via a Stanley solid fuel range in the kitchen with back boiler and a solid fuel feature fireplace in the living room. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout.

Externally the bungalow sits on a generous sized site with manicured lawns, mature trees and shrubs and a large driveway leading to the rear where there is ample parking space and storage sheds. The site offers the opportunity to extend the property if required and subject to planning.

Ber D2 Legal: Padraig Kelly Strokestown, Roscommon (071) 9633666 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET: MARKET:

A fine Public House with 7 Day Licence and a 5 B/R Townhouse known as

“GILLS BAR” CLARE STREET, BALLYHAUNIS, MAYO F35 A665 AMV €25 €250,0 0,00 00

Magnificent town centre bar beautifully furnished to a superb standard with large 5-bedroom family home attached. the premises enjoys enormous character with a front bar and back lounge which offers an ideal opportunity for a quality “hands on” operator to acquire a ready to go business with growth potential. the living accommodation is modern and beautifully maintained and includes a fully fitted kitchen, utility and living/dining room on the ground floor. overhead on the first floor and maintained to exacting standards there is a large sitting room, 5 bedrooms (2 of which have en-suite bathrooms), family bathroom, office and storage room. the living accommodation also benefits from pvc double glazed windows throughout and an oil central heating system for supply of heat and hot water to both bar and residence.

BER D1 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

TO LET RETAIL/ OFFICE UNIT

13 CASTLE VIEW, CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON, F42E519 AMV €250.00 €250.00 per week

Newly refurbished unit with reception area with fresh laminate flooring and 3 private carpeted offices.

This unit has been upgraded and finished to the highest possible standard.

Modern storage heating, panel lighting, CAT 5 cabelling throughout are hallmarks of this unit.

There is a dedicated canteen and fitted kitchen as well as staff toilet.

This unit is professional, bright and inviting and measures in at approx. 900sq ft.

The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to lease.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 or John 086 2551380 Fax: (090) 6625405

28

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

PropertyPeople Auctioneers & Estate Agents Main Street, Ballygar.

Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664

Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472

moranandco.ie

Cloonascarberry, Ballygar, F42 VW02

Detached 4 Bed. Two Storey

Great location on N63 in scenic countryside.

The house c. 116 sq.mts. requires work.

Rare opportunity to acquire such a property which has excellent potential.

Convenient to Ballygar & Mountbellew.

Commuting distance from Roscommon, Ballinasloe and Athlone.

Full details from the auctioneer David Moran

3 Cul na Cille, Ballygar, F42 FY75

Spacious 3 Bed. Semi-Detached

Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

Lands For Sale By Private Treaty Total Area c. 10.3 ha. (25.5 acres)

Prime residential area.

Nicely finished and decorated.

A bright spacious family home c. 125 sq.mts.

The lands which are laid out in two divisions have a good location close to the village of Kilkerrin.

Full details from the auctioneer David Moran

Full details from the auctioneer David Moran

Earley’s close the sale of Strokestown residence This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of a quality three-bedroomed residence, located at No. 4 Lisroyne Oaks Strokestown Co Roscommon John described the property as “A most attractive, four-bedroomed, semi-detached residence of approximately 1,660 square feet. The property is presented in very good condition, having undergone recent renovations including new fitted kitchen units, new tiling, and a new boiler and oil tank.

“Living accommodation comprises of an entrance hall, living room, kitchen/dining room, utility, WC, and a garage. Proceeding to the first floor, there is a landing, main bathroom and three bedrooms, the master of which features an en-suite”.

John added: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed under bidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579 or log onto propertypartners.ie. Contact John directly on 086-2551380 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Warehousestyle property urgently wanted This week, Property Partners Earley Roscommon are urgently seeking a warehouse-style property/farmyard-style buildings of approximately 30,000 square feet.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

Houses urgently wanted in all areas

No. 4 Lisroyne Oaks Strokestown Co Roscommon

Due to a large volume of residential sales over the past number of weeks, Earley’s now require properties in all areas for mortgage approved and cash clients. All properties considered, and we offer a free appraisal service.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 0906626579 or log onto propertypartners.ie. Contact John directly on 086-2551380 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

29

30

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

NewsPeople newsbriefs

Pictured are Minister Heather Humphreys and local Minister of State Frank Feighan.

€301k in extra funding for Boyle project TOP: McSharry’s Pharmacy in Castlerea are proud to sponsor first aid kits for Loughglynn Boxing Club. Pictured presenting the kits are Marie Grady and Rachel Harte of McSharry’s Pharmacy. Pic: Mick McCormack.

Packing a punch: McSharry’s Pharmacy sponsors kits for Loughglynn boxers...

LEFT: McSharry’s Pharmacy in Castlerea are proud to sponsor first aid kits for Loughglynn Boxing Club.

Pictured are Jason O’Reilly, Kevin Murphy (Loughglynn Boxing Club), Rachel Harte (McSharry’s Pharmacy), Marie Grady (McSharry’s Pharmacy), Andy Taylor, and Frank Ward (Loughglynn Boxing Club). Pic: Mick McCormack.

€1.3m in supports for TUS students

Confirmation of over €1.3m in financial and mental health supports for students at the new Technological University Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS) through a Student Hardship Fund and Wellbeing measures has been welcomed by Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan.

Senator Dolan said: “Students in need are struggling, especially for rent, food and bills. It is wonderful to be back at college but it does lead to more costs of living and additional shortages of campus accommodation as some shared rooms may now be single use only”.

Funding of over €417,000 has been announced for students at TUS Midlands Midwest under the Hardship Fund, while over €270,000 is being spent on additional mental health supports there.

Classic/Vintage Car and Tractor Run this Sunday Roscommon Vintage Club are holding a big car and tractor run on this Sunday, October 24th. The run is being organised in aid of Lough Ree & Roscommon Sub Aqua Search and Recovery Groups. Entry fee for vehicles is €20 and registration will take place from 10.30 am The cavalcade will depart Church Street, Strokestown at 12 noon. It will be comprised of three categories of vehicles and will take the following routes: Classic/Vintage cars will depart Church Street at 12 noon for Longford, via Tarmonbarry, through Flancare Park to the (N63) and then proceed to Lanesboro via Killashee. At Lanesboro there will be a stop made to visit the Sub Aqua centre. The return route will go through Roscommon town via Circular Road, FBD roundabout and Main Street and on to Fourmilehouse and Strokestown.

The modern tractor run,

Local Minister of State Frank Feighan has welcomed €301,500 in additional funding for the ongoing rejuvenation of Boyle Town Centre and King House.

The funding was announced as part of €3.5 million for twelve projects nationwide under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.

The Boyle project has a revised cost of €2,416,000 with RRDF funding from the Department now amounting to €1,872,900.

“I wish to thank Minister Heather Humphreys for the additional funding of €3.5 million and the extra €301,000 for Boyle,” Deputy Feighan said.

“I want to thank her for taking my representations on cost on board, which reflect the fact that it is a challenging time in construction and that further financial investment from Government is required to ensure these projects can be delivered in full”.

Bingo returns to Ballinaheglish

Bingo makes a welcome return to Ballinaheglish Community Centre this Friday (October 22nd) from 8.30 pm.

After being closed for over 18 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the committee is delighted to be able to reopen and hope that the parish of Oran and the wider community will support bingo and other planned events.

Athleague Apostolic Workers’ fundraiser

Athleague Apostolic Workers will host a fundraiser in aid of the Missions on Sunday, October 31st after 10 am Mass on church grounds in Athleague.

Traditionally, a cake sale would have been held also, but as a result of Covid-19 this will not take place this year.

However, a raffle will take place and first prize is a Keane’s Centra Hamper. Lines cost €2 each of €5 for three. There will be a number of other prizes up for grabs also, one of which is a hamper from Jones’ Filling Station.

All monies raised will go to Missionaries in third world countries, which, on top of war and famine, now have to cope with difficulties relating to Covid-19.

Those who wish to contribute to Athleague Apostolic Workers can do so be contacting 090-6623455.

All support would be greatly appreciated.

Bishop of Elphin issues appeal to unvaccinated

which will depart after the cars, will go out the Roscommon Road (R368) to Sharkey’s Cross and turn left for Carnaska. At Lismehy junction it will turn right for Ballybeg and continue to Kilrooskey Cross and turn right for Beechwood. At Beechwood it will turn left for Lanesboro and continue through the town to Tullyvarane junction. At Tullyvarane it will turn right

and continue to Rathcline Road and back to Lanesboro again for a break.

The vintage tractors will depart immediately after the main run and follow the route to Tuam Cross, where they will turn left for Kilnalosset.

At Kilnalosset they will turn left for Doughill where a short break will be held. The vintage run will then return to Strokestown via Cur-

raghroe and Scramogue.

Both tractor routes will be fully marshalled with stewards at all important junctions.

At the end of the run, a social evening will take place in Compton’s Central Bar, Bridge Street, Strokestown, where a big raffle of prizes will take place. The public are asked to support this worthy cause and all drivers are advised to drive safely.

The Bishop of Elphin took to social media recently in order to call on those people who are yet to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to make a “personal judgement of conscience”, adding saying that all vaccines are “clinically safe and effective”.

Posting on the Diocese of Elphin Facebook page, Bishop Doran encouraged Catholics to take their responsibility seriously and said that judgements of conscience are “based on fact, not on opinion”.

He said the high level of hospitalisation from Covid-19 prevented those with other serious health conditions from getting essential treatment and those in a position to receive a vaccine should do so now.

“You may find it helpful to know that the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has clarified, as long ago as last December, that in the context of a pandemic where is a grave risk from the transmission of a ‘deadly pathogen’…all vaccinations recognised as clinically safe and effective can be used in good conscience,” he posted.

31

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Classifieds

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

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

BIBLE READINGS

Messages from the Scriptures relevant to everyday life Culleen Hall Knockcroghery

Every Sunday 7 to 8 pm Everyone welcome

089 2234009 086 3907685 CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

Telephone:

087 2798704

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

Stephen Casey

Construction l

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Fergal 086 1016899

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

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

VHI and Laya Covered

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

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

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

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver.

GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193

l

Tel: 087 2172281 GARDENING

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

fergalkelly@live.com

CHIROPRACTOR

Complete Chimney Services

CONSTRUCTION

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

l

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you affected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

FARMING BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations.

Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

gmail.com

< TO LET: 8-bay slatted shed from now until 1st April 2022. Roxboro area.

Tel. 089 2161765.

FOR SALE < PLAY STATION 2 for sale.

As new, in original box. €60.

7 games included. Tel 086 3912647.

GATELY GARDENING

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

FENCING/GATES

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

087 2346364

LIFE COACH

Mindset Life Coach Online

l Personal

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

Development/Life Coaching l Membership Club l Workshops l Retreats CONTACT

Emer Watchorn

BSc. Arch Tech, HDip Executive & Life Coaching

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

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

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

Can we help you?

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

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

087 7718842

REFLEXOLOGY

emerwatchorn lifecoach.com

REFLEXOLOGY

website:

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

The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!

Phone John on

087 2860428

PHYSICAL THERAPY

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

The local paper!

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

32

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Classifieds REFLEXOLOGY Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI)

Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment.

Through massage of the feet reflexology can • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general well- being Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body.

Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212 Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

PLANNINGS

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Eammon & Bernie Ownes intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to demolish Existing Dwelling and domestic garage and to erect a Dwelling House, Domestic Garage,Front boundary wall, upgrade existing septic tank with a new sewerage system and a treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works, At Mooneenbog Td., Roosky, Co. Roscommon.

The Planning Application May Be Inspected Or Purchased At A Fee Not Exceeding The Reasonable Cost Of Making A Copy, At The Offices Of The Planning Authority During Its Public Opening Hours. A Submission Or Observation In Relation To The Application May Be Made In Writing To The Planning Authority On Payment Of The Prescribed Fee Of €20.00. ,Within A Period Of 5 Weeks Beginning On The Date Of Receipt By The Authority Of The Application, And Such Submissions Or Observations Will Be Considered

By The Planning Authority In Making A Decision On The Application. The Planning Authority Subject To or Without Conditions, or May Refuse To Grant Permission

Signed: Eammon & Bernie Ownes

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Phil & Paddy Kenny, intend to apply for permission for development at Barrymore, Kiltoom, Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a two-storey dwelling house with external store/garage, and all associated site development and external works.

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Phil & Paddy Kenny, intend to apply for permission for development at Barrymore, Kiltoom, Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a two-storey dwelling house with external store/garage, and all associated site development and external works.

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Thomas Kelly, intend to apply for planning permission at, Glenrevagh, Co. Roscommon. The development will be a one part two storey & one part single-storey four-bedroom dwelling, comprising of open plan kitchen and dining room, living room, accessible bathroom, home office, utility area, garage & new waste water treatment system and ancillary works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

SIGNED: Thomas Kelly, Curnalee, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Leanne Caulfield to construct a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system & associated siteworks at Lowtown Kilcashel, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

Signed Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Ph- (087) 2222874.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Charlene Banahan & Kevin Feeney, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works.

At: Ballymoylin Townland, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon.

Ph: (086) 3490965. www.mbeprojects.com

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, John Galvin & Ana Parisi are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house, new septic tank and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Coolfree, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designers – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Cloonlumney, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon We, the undersigned, intend to apply for Full Planning Permission to construct an extension to, along with alteration to existing dwelling house and a new on-site wastewater treatment system along with all ancillary site works at the above address.

This Planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the Planning Authority, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon during office hours Monday to Friday (9.00am – 5.00pm, excluding lunch 1.00pm – 2.00pm). A submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Darragh & Tina Hunt

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

THANKSGIVINGS 3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. E.M. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. C.B. NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal. You gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and to confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in spite of material things. I wish to be with you in Eternal Glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days, after three days your prayer will be answered. The paryer must be published after the favour has been granted. C.B. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours.

This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. T.M.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! The local paper!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

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PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

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33

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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

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TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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TUITION

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

l Face to face grinds

l Experienced Higher

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l Limited places available

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

< GRINDS: French and German grinds, catered for up to Leaving Certificate (Honours). Tel: 087 3515985

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available < TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

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PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

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

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

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083 0684011

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

• 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

TURF AVAILABLE

086 4679798 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

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

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086 2437376

NO JOB TOO SMALL

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087 2478609

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Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc ....

094 96 31880 087 9100477

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

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

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Agriculture powerwashing Service • Slatted sheds • Sheep sheds • Yards • Pens Dont delay, book today Housing fast approaching Call Padraig on

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USEFUL SERVICES

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USEFUL SERVICES

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l

086 2721812 < W O O D / F I R E W O O D : High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire.

Available in 500kg bulk bag and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 086 3312411 after 6pm.

USEFUL SERVICES

Evo Roofers

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TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

RO S l

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Extensions l Renovations l Property Maintenance

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Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site l

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

l

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV R ecycling L td ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231 Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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087 9795226

Submit your Classified online

Western Carpentry & Roofing

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

1st & 2nd Fixing • Slating & Tiling • Lead work • Leak detection

Tel. 087 9625391

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

34

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

AtYourService BLINDS

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

CARS

KITCHENS

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Repairs

Gerry Martin:

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Chimney Problems

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

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

Chris’s Window Service

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Tel: 087 0944027

l

S tephen H oare

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

Contact us on: 089 4154267 DOORS/ WINDOWS

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)

PAINTING

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Cleaning Sheds, Painting Roofs and Hay Barns Martin Hibbitt Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Michael: Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, APA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LACDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt

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Contact Pat Hanley on

PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY PROPERTY CLAIMS CLAIMS CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS Property Claims Consultants PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY CLAIMSSERVICES CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS LOSS ASSESSORS ASSESSORS SERVICES PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES and Loss Assessors Services LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES

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Midlands Construction Estimating Service

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We specialise in estimating/pricing for both private and public works. This includes but is not limited to: l New builds projects l Refurbishments projects l Civil projects l Framework preparation - closed and open procedure Local authority/Government works.

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35

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES COX Patrick (Pakie) Killinordan, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon.

Who passed away on 23rd September, 2021

Pakie’s wife Mary and daughters Fidelma, Fiona and Eileen wish to sincerely thank all those who sympathised, came to the house, and attended the Funeral Home, Mass and Burial. To those who send Mass cards, sympathy cards, condolences online and made donations to the Roscommon Palliative Care Unit, thank you.

We are very grateful to neighbours, friends and extended family who brought food, looked after refreshments and helped out in so many practical ways over the duration of Pakie’s illness. We would also like to thank our neighbours and friends who called on Pakie for a chat over the last few years.

Sincere thanks to Fr. Jarek for his prayers at the house and for a lovely spiritual Mass enhanced by the music and singing of Pakie’s family, visiting musicians and readers.

Our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ciaran Regan, Mary and Nurse Rosemary; the Strokestown Community nurses who looked after Pakie so well after his operation and the few weeks before he died.

To Prof. Mansoor, his team and the staff of Mullingar Hospital; Dr. Sylvie Blazkova and the Oncology Team at Portiuncula Hospital; the Palliative Care Team in Roscommon for their support in the last four weeks of Pakie’s life; the home help ladies for their expert help and care of Pakie; and Willie and Michelle McAuliffe for all their help over the last few years.

Sincere thanks to Kieran and Mary Leavy undertakers and family friends for their professionalism, support and management of the funeral arrangements. To the gravediggers who prepared Pakie’s final resting place with care and attention.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

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

ENNIS JOYCE Barbara Carrowmore, Co. Roscommon and Connemara, Co. Galway (2nd Anniversary)

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 I have of you.

Sadly missed by Kevin Casey (Partner).

Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday 27th October at 11am.

GALLAGHER Mary Kilmore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Mary who died on 24th October, 2020 R.I.P.

Pakie’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held on Sunday 24th October at 10 am in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

MANNION Mary Agnes (Baby)

Culleenervin, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (17th Anniversary) In memory of Mary Agnes (Baby) Mannion who died on November 7th 2004 R.I.P.

SCANLON Nee Mulligan Mary (Mae) Corlackin, Creggs, Co. Galway (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of Mary (Mae) who passed away on 27th October 2016 May Mary Rest In Peace

Silent thoughts, tears unseen, wishing your absence was only a dream.

No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you will always be near.

Time does not heal the heartaches nor does it stop a tear nor take away the memories of you we loved so dear.

Time and years slip gently by, but love and memories never die.

In my heart you will always stay, loved and remembered everyday.

Sadly missed by your husband Martin Joe. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Sunday 24th October at 10 am

Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time can take them away.

Missed each day by your family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 24th October at 11.30am.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Eamon, and all the family.

Anniversary Mass on 22nd October in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 7 pm.

KENNY Michael

,

MYERS Liam

Tully, Fourmilehouse, and Glenview, Roscommon Who died October 27th 2008 (13th Anniversary)

Turloughmore, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

MURRAY Teresa (nee Melvin) Lucan, Co Dublin and formerly Castle Street, Roscommon Who passed away on the 24th October 2020 (1st Anniversary)

We have you in our hearts, your hand we cannot touch, still we have so many memories, of the ones we loved so much.

Your memory is our keepsake, with which we’ll never part, God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Sadly missed Margaret, Frank, Mairead and Cora Fay.

Not, how did he die, but how did he live?

Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?

These are the units to measure the worth of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.

Nor what was his church, nor what was his creed? but had he befriended those really in need?

Was he ever ready, with words of good cheer, to bring back a smile, to banish a tear?

Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say, but how many were sorry when he passed away?

Loved and cherished by Mam, Dad and the Kenny family.

Anniversary Mass in Four-Mile-House Church on Sunday 24th October at 11am.

Who died on the 4th of October 2010. R.l.P. BROTHER Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Always remembered and sadly missed by your brothers and sister, nieces and nephews and brother-in-law. ~~~~~~~~~

On her first anniversary the Murray family wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss. To those who sent Mass cards, floral arrangements, and expressions of support, whether online, on RIP.ie, by phone, or in person at that time or since, we are truly grateful.

We would also like to thank Fr. Joe Fitzgerald who celebrated the Mass and the soloist Enya O’Reilly and all those who lined the route and gathered outside the Sacred Heart Church in Roscommon.

To Pat and Gillian Smyth, Funeral Directors and their staff for their compassion and professionalism throughout the service we are truly grateful. We would also like to thank those who prepared mam’s final resting place.

MYERS Bridget

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude.

Dundonnell, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

Who died on the 19th of October 2011. R.l.P. MOTHER We miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air.

Your vacant place, no one can fill, we miss you Mother, and always will.

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Always remembered and sadly missed by your sons and daughters, grandchildren and son-in-law.

Anniversary Mass will take place on St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on 22nd October at 9 o’clock.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McGUIRE Frank Drumminmore, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

MOORE JP Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Who died on the 10th of September 2021. RIP

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

DOWLING Rose

Lisgobbin, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

Who passed away unexpectedly on 22nd October 2020 (1st Anniversary)

CONTACT HAZEL

On the First Anniversary of our dear Frank’s sudden death, we his family wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us on the heartbreaking loss of Frank.

We were overwhelmed by your kindness and numerous tributes in his honour during those difficult covid times. We are eternally grateful to our extended family, many friends and all who sympathised with us.

We thank our most wonderful neighbours who brought, food and refreshments to help us through those dark days, it was appreciated so much. We thank all those who sent mass cards, sympathy cards, beautiful floral tributes, phone calls, letters, lit candles, had masses said and left condolences on RIP.ie. Thank you to all who have kept us in their thoughts and prayers during a very tough year.

We thank those who lined the route from Frank’s home in Drumminmore to the church and afterward to his final resting place in Kilglass Cemetery. Your presence was very much appreciated.

We thank Lisa and Colette McGowan for organizing the funeral cortege to drive past Frank’s Garage, which he so loved and to all the people who stood along the route to show their respects, it was extremely moving. It was a memory that will be forever cherished in our hearts.

Thank you to An Garda Siochana who organised the traffic flow on the day.

Our sincere thanks to Eimear and Andrew Reynolds who made a special contribution to the Mass with their beautiful music and song in the church, it strengthened our hearts on this most difficult day.

We thank Fr. Evaristus for calling to our home on the morning of Frank’s death and for celebrating the Funeral Mass, making it so meaningful and personal and for also officiating at the graveside. We thank Hugh the Sacristan for helping at the ceremony.

We thank Pat and John Mc Hugh, Undertakers, for their professionalism and the dignified manner in which they carried out the funeral arrangements. We also thank the gravediggers who prepared Frank’s final resting place.

Thank you to Mary, Eileen and Ann for their help at the Post Office at such short notice.

Thank you to Cox’s Steak House in Dromod for providing a beautiful meal after the funeral.

Thank you to Dr Nuala Hardiman who attended Frank the morning of his death, also Dr Annette Rogers, nurse Moya and Claire at the Surgery Rooskey who helped Frank over the years.

To Frank’s lifelong friends who shared their cherished memories with us and have been a constant support to us, we will be forever grateful.

Like so many other families we particularly missed being able to gather fully to celebrate Frank’s life and say goodbye to him, we have a huge gap in our lives without Frank but we know he is watching over us every day.

Please accept this Acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for the intentions of all.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his heartbroken family.

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard but always near So loved, so missed, so very dear.

Frank’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on the 24th of October at 11.30 am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Rooskey.

John’s wife Brid; sons Shane and Alan; brothers Jim and Tom; sisters Eileen and Bernie and extended family wish to thank those who sympathised with us on the sad loss of JP. Thank you to all those who called to his home to pay their respects, sent letters, Mass cards and personal messages of condolences on RIP.ie.

Thanks to Dr. Jim Moore and all the staff of Millennium Health Centre Mountbellew, Dr. Gerald O’ Mara and his team, nurses and staff of Roscommon Hospital, district nurses and home help team who cared so lovingly for JP during his illness.

To Fr. Christopher Ebianga who celebrated JP’s Funeral Mass, assisted by Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Kevin McGeeney and Teresa Murray and thank you also to Margaret Kiernan for the beautiful singing in the church.

To our neighbours, friends and family for all their help and support since JP’s passing. To funeral director Henry Hamrock for his professionalism and attention to detail in arranging every aspect of JP’s funeral. To the wonderful team of gravediggers for their hard work in preparing JP’s final resting place, your thoughtfulness and attention to detail, in particular the arrangement of flowers around JP’s grave was beautiful.

To Athleague Hurling Club for organising a guard of honour and An Garda Siochana who both accompanied JP’s remains to the church and graveyard. To the Pepper Mill Restaurant who provided food after JP’s Funeral Mass and all family and friends who brought sandwiches and food to the house over the course of JP’s funeral.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone personally and individually, please accept this acknowledgement of our deep appreciation and gratitude.

JP’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held in St. Patricks Church, Athleague on Saturday 23rd of October at 7pm.

MULRY Mary Teresa

In loving memory of Rose, who died on October 27th 2013 R.I.P. You left us peaceful memories your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you, you are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same, but as god calls us one by one the chain will link again.

Loved forever and sadly missed by her husband Pat, son Michael, daughters Martha and Sylvia, sons - in - law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday 23rd October at 7pm.

FITZMAURICE Alan Ardsallagh Beg, Roscommon Who died 21st October 2007 (14th Anniversary)

Rahara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Who passed away on the 22nd October 2020

On the first anniversary of Mary Teresa’s death, her son Vincent would like to thank everyone that supported him at that sad and difficult time.

Vincent would like to thank those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards and the moving tributes and messages on RIP.ie Vincent would like to express a heartfelt thank you to the management and staff of Oakwood Nursing Home, Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon town who cared for Mary Teresa for a number of years prior to her death and who made Mary Teresa’s final days comfortable and pain free as humanly possible.

Vincent would like to thank Smyths Funeral Directors Ltd, Roscommon town for the professionalism with which they carried out their duties.

A special thanks to all who travelled to attend the funeral.

As it is not possible to thank you all individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of my deepest gratitude.

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

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her son Vincent.

Anniversary Mass for Mary Teresa will be held in Rahara Church, Rahara on Sunday,24th October at 10am.

BALICKI Damian

GILLERAN Peter

Ashbrook, Lisnamult, Roscommon (formerly of Poland) Who died 25th October 2020 (1st Anniversary)

Hillside House, The Walk, Roscommon and Castlerea Who died 6th October 2012 (9th Anniversary)

Deep in our hearts you will always stay, loved and remembered every day.

No tears, no verse can ever say how much we miss you every day.

Always loved and deeply missed by your loving family and friends.

Never forgotten.

Always close to our hearts.

From your sister Anne Harrington, 16 Plunkett Avenue, Ballygar, Co. Galway; Aíne, Ruhiri, Ava and Alana, Liam and Carolyn.

COLLINS Peggy Glenvale, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon In Loving memory of our dear Mother who died 24th Oct 2020 Rest In Peace (1st Anniversary)

(nee Egan)

(1st Anniversary)

087 6758874

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

You can shed tears that he is gone, or you can smile because he has lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back, or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him, or you can be full of the love that you shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember him and only that he is gone, or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back, or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Forever in our hearts, Dawn, Emma, Brigeen, Gerry, family and friends.

Death beckoned Mum with outstretched hand and whispered softly of an unknown land but Mum was not afraid to go for though the path she did not know.

She took death’s hand without a fear, for he who safely brought her here had told her he would lead the way into eternity’s bright day.

And so she did not go alone into the valley that’s unknown she gently took death by the hand and journeyed to the promised land.

And there, with step so light and gay, she polishes the sun by day and lights the stars that shine at night and keeps the moonbeams silvery bright.

For mothers really never die, they just keep house up in the sky, and in the heavenly home above they wait to welcome those they love.

Sadly missed, always loved and remembered by her daughters, Mary, Kathleen and Margaret sons, Mal and Liam, Sons in law, daughter in law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 24th October at 10am In St Paul’s Church, Kilmurray.

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021 Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House, Co Roscommon

Classifieds Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844

37

12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com ToCHY advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Relief Staff Panel Being Created!

Appointments

Essential Criteria: • Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE • Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times • Experience planning child-centred activities • Experience working asCuan part of aBhríde team Childcare Centre • Good oral and written communication Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours Four Mile House, Co Roscommon • Garda Vetting required Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Receptionist/ Sales Person

SITUATIONS VACANT CHATTERLAND PLAYSCHOOL & CRECHE, ELPHIN Currently have a vacancy for an

EARLY YEARS EDUCATOR

9.00 to 5.30pm – covering long-term sick leave

required 2 days per week Roscommon town business

EARLY YEARS TEACHER, TEACHER, 1.00 pm to 6.00 pm

Tel. 086 1366661

Please email your CV to chatterlandcreche@hotmail.com or tel: 087 8325301

Relief Staff Panel Being Created!EARLY YEARS TEACHER, TEMPORARY SENIOR TEACHER, Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form. Job description available upon request. Criteria: A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled, including relief work.

Essential Canvassing will disqualify.

• Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE • Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times Interested applicants should child-centred send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest • Experience planning activities and•CV Experience no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to: working as part of a team Great Conditions of Employment: • Good oral salary and written communication Competitive The•Manager, Bhríde Childcare Centre, FourtoMile House, Co.hours Roscommon F42W326 Ability Cuan to work on own initiative, willing work flexible Three paid sick days (pro-rata) 090•662Garda 9844 Vetting cuanbhride@outlook.com required

Positive and supportive working environment Paid Continuous Professional Development Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Flexibility with overtime and in lieu hours

Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form. Job description available upon Essential Criteria: request.

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled, including relief work.

Canvassing will QQI/Fetac disqualify. V in ECCE • Minimum

• Ability to ensure the health and safety of

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest children at all times and CV no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to: • Experience planning child-centred activities

• Experience working as part of a team The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 • Good oral and written communication 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

• Garda Vetting required Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form.

Job description available upon request. Canvassing will disqualify.

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest and CV no later than Wednesday, 27 October, 2021, 5pm to: The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Part-Funded by the Irish Government Subvention Scheme and part-financed by the European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

SHANNON LODGE NURSING HOME Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

• Level 6 qualification required.

• Experience not necessary.

< CHILDMINDER: Roscommon Town area. For 2 children after school 2-6pm 2/3 days/week. Needs own car. References required. Tel: 0861613426 < CHILDMINDER: Required 3 days per week for 2 children, 1 school going. Own transport essential for school drop-offs and pickups. Fluent English essential. Roscommon Town. Tel 087-9815205

EXPERIENCED DAY & NIGHT STAFF NURSES REQUIRED Full and part time positions available.

HOUSEKEEPER REQUIRED Morning hours • Premium for Sundays and Bank Holidays.

• Free meals, tea and coffee.

• Paid lunch breaks.

• Pension Scheme facilitated.

• Cycle to work scheme available.

Applications, including CVs can be emailed to: shannonlodgenh@gmail.com

COACH DRIVER REQUIRED Full and part-time work.

Must have D Licence Apply to Box no. 2094, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Midland Precision Engineering requires

EMPLOYEE FOR GENERAL OPERATIVE WORK • Mechanical ability would help.

• Training will be provided.

Contact: 086-8286788 for further information.

Leave a brief message and I will return the call.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Garda vetting and references will be required.

SportExtra Part-Funded by the Irish Government Subvention Scheme and part-financed by the European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

Pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Senior Hurling Final (Photos: Mick McCormack)

HOW IT’S GOING Kepak SHC Final Athleague 3-12 Tremane 0-15 King & Moffatt Junior A FC Semi-Finals St Brigid’s 1-11 St Dominic’s 0-9 Pádraig Pearses 4-10 St Joseph’s 0-8 Junior B FC (Group A) St Dominic’s w/o v Kilbride Junior B FC (Group B) Castlerea St Kevin’s 2-10 Michael Glavey’s 1-7 Clann na nGael 3-11 Shannon Gaels 1-5 Junior B FC (Group C) Roscommon Gaels 4-9 Kilglass Gaels 0-2 St Faithleach’s 4-10 St Michael’s 0-3 Junior B FC (Group D) Strokestown 1-11 Éire Óg 0-2 Kilmore 2-8 Pádraig Pearses 0-8

GAA fixtures Friday, October 22nd Junior B FC (Group B) At Johnstown: Oran v Clann na nGael. 8.15 pm Junior B FC (Group C) At Kiltoom: St Brigid’s v Roscommon Gaels. 8.30 pm Junior B FC (Group D) At Strokestown: Strokestown v Kilmore. 8 pm Pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Senior Hurling Final (Photos: Mick McCormack)

Saturday, October 23rd

AFL Division Four League At Strokestown: St Joseph’s v St Ronan’s. 6 pm Junior B FC (Group A) At Knockcroghery: St Dominic’s v Fuerty. 4 pm At Ballyforan: St Aidan’s v Kilbride. 4 pm Junior B FC (Group B) At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Michael Glavey’s. 4 pm Junior B FC (Group C) At Kilglass: Kilglass Gaels v St Faithleach’s. 4 pm Sunday, October 24th Tansey Cup Play-off At Lisnamult: Creggs v Kilglass Gaels. 12 pm King & Moffatt IFC Final At Dr. Hyde Park: St Dominic’s v St Faithleach’s. 3 pm

Ladies GAA update Friday, October 22nd McNeill’s Foodstore and Catering IFC Semi-Final St Ciaran’s v St. Dominic’s.

8.15 pm Sunday, October 24th McNeill’s Foodstore & Catering IFC Semi-Final Éire Óg v Boyle. 11 am Keenan’s Bar & Restaurant Junior A FC Semi-Finals St Barry’s v Pádraig Pearses St Croan’s v Michael Glavey’s Junior B FC Semi-Finals (11 am) St Faithleach’s v Roscommon Gaels Four Roads v Kilbride II

38

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

Sports PEOPLE Darts League set to resume

Soccer Results FAI Junior Cup Ballinasloe Town 5 Dunmore Town 1 Coolaney United 4 Ballaghaderreen FC 4. AET (Ballaghaderreen FC won 5-3 on penalties) Glen View Stars 2 Cloonfad United 4 MCR FC 2 Boyle Celtic 4. AET RDFL Premier Division Castlerea Celtic 3 Moore United 2 RDFL Division One Skyvalley Rovers 4 Ballinasloe Town B 1 Dysart FC W/O Glen Celtic RDFL Division Two Ballymoe FC B 7 Boyle Celtic B 1 Rahara Rovers 2 St. John’s Athletic B 2 Roscommon United B 7 Moore United B 2

Creggs RFC Report

Shootout heroics see Ballagh’ through!

Pictured is the Ballaghaderreen FC squad which qualified for the final round of the FAI Junior Cup regional section last weekend with a hardfought penalty shootout win over Sligo side Coolaney United at Coolaney Community Park. The match ended 4-4 after extra-time with the visitors’ goals coming from Cormac Rushe (2), Bruce Holton, and Patrick Callaghan. Substitute goalkeeper Paddy Regan was the shootout hero as he saved Coolaney’s fourth before Callaghan rifled home the winner to send Ballaghaderreen through.

THE GAIN LINE

All-Ireland showdown this Saturday!

Creggs Firsts are preparing for a massive All-Ireland Junior Cup game against Munster side Kilfeacle this Saturday (23rd) at The Green.

A big crowd is expected for the 2.30 pm kick-off as the Maroon and White face one of Munster’s top club sides.

Last weekend, Creggs came up just short away to Connemara as they succumbed to their first defeat in six games.

After five wins on the spin, Creggs were beaten 10-5 in the Connacht J1 League fixture in Clifden.

The two teams will meet again, this time in the Cawley Cup semi-final on November 7th.

Congratulations to Mark Dowd, who made his senior rugby debut for Creggs last Sunday against Connemara.

Meanwhile, the Creggs Development squad kick off their Connacht J1C League campaign this Saturday night at home to Ballyhaunis at 7 pm.

Mini Rugby

Mini Rugby continues this Saturday (October 23rd) with all teams from U-7s to U-12s travelling to a Blitz in Carrick-on-Shannon. Kickoff is at 10 am.

Youth Rugby Corinthians 5 Creggs 47 (Under-16 Connacht Girls League). Creggs grabbed their fourth win in the

Connacht League Division 1 with an impressive 47-5 win over Corinthians RFC. Julieann Fahy, Rachel Kilcoyne, Leah Heavey and Darcey Farnon scored their first tries for the club while further tries from Sarah Purcell, Jemima Adams Verling, Katie O’Connor, Siofra Hession and Shauna Walsh completed the scoring for the home side.

There were excellent displays from Isabelle Quinn, Grace Killian, Beibhinn Maher, Stacey Corbally and Gweneth Gillooly in the forwards and from Elizabeth Gory, Michaela Gillooly, and Grace Mannion in the backs.

Galway Bay RFC 10 Creggs RFC 12 (U-15 Boys): In what proved to be a very close game, Creggs did just about enough to overcome Galway Bay last weekend. Luca Cormican’s early try was converted by Cathal Maloney before the hosts responded with a try of their own just before halftime.

The hosts then took the lead just after the restart with a deserved second try but failed to convert and that was to prove extremely costly as Cormican once again barged over for his second try to give Creggs a narrow victory.

This weekend, the U-14 Girls take on Corrib/Westport while the U-18s travel to Ballina on Saturday for their Connacht League fixture.

Creggs’ U-13 Boys will travel to Loughrea on Saturday for a 1 pm kickoff while the U-14s host

Creggs U-15s enjoyed a good win over Galway Bay RFC last weekend.

The Creggs U-16 Girls’ team which took on Corinthians RFC recently.

Buccaneers at 12.30 pm in the Connacht League.

The U-17s, meanwhile, are

away to Corrib in Connacht League with date and time TBC. The U-18.5s make the

short trip to Athlone to face Buccaneers in the Connacht League on Sunday at 12 pm.

The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League will restart on Friday, October 29th with the conclusion of the campaign which began prior to Covid-19 restrictions.

The Holly Tree has withdrawn from the competition so all points from games involving that team will be deducted from the remaining participants.

McDermott’s, Flanagan’s and The Cosy Bar currently top the standings with 71 points and the fixtures for October 29th are as follows: Flanagan’s v Dalton’s; The Hollywood v Cosy Bar (Challenge match); McDermott’s v Molly’s; An Bothar Rua v Sideline Bar; Cosy Bar have a bye.

A new start time of 9.30 pm will be trialled for all games and the annual Christmas Darts Singles event has been scheduled for Sunday, December 12th.

Kennedy reaches All-Ireland handball final Indoor handball made a welcome return from the Covid-19 wilderness last weekend and St. Coman’s’ Carragh Kennedy marked its return with a tremendous win in the delayed 2020 60x30 Girls’ U-16 All-Ireland Semi-Final.

Carragh faced Clare’s Leah Minogue in the famous old Tuamgrainey court, with long, punishing rallies right from the start.

The remarkable score of 15-1 in Carragh’s favour in the first game must go down as one of the most distorted scorelines ever, as Leah produced some outstanding handball throughout.

To nobody’s surprise, the Clare girl then took a 9-1 lead in the second, only to see Carragh eventually draw level at 10-10.

Minogue wasn’t to be denied however, and she ground out the remaining five aces to take the match to a third game.

Carragh made an excellent start in the third, opening up a 6-0 lead, one which she never relinquished. Although Leah was incredibly competitive, Carragh was still gaining as much purchase on the ball as she had throughout.

Nevertheless, it still took a huge effort from the Roscommon youngster to finish off the match, winning 15-1, 10-15, 15-7 and qualifying for the AllIreland Final, most likely against Kilkenny’s Amy Brennan.

39

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses

Racing today is in Thurles with a national hunt card away at 1.15 pm.

Tomorrow evening there are flat cards at Dundalk tomorrow, off at 4.45 pm and at The Cleveragh in Sligo, a jumping fixture off at 1.10 pm.

On Saturday, there is racing on the level in Leopardstown, off at 1.40 pm, and national hunt racing at Ballybrit at 1.20 pm, the first of a three-day meeting at the Galway venue.

Sunday hosts a flat meeting at Ballybrit, stalls opening for the first at 1.10 pm and a national hunt card at Wexford, off at 1.25 pm. Monday sees a repeat of Sunday’s fare with Galway starting at 1.35 pm and Wexford at 1.10 pm.

On Saturday, ITV are covering ten races, five from Cheltenham, three from Doncaster and two from Newbury.

Cheltenham on Saturday sees an entry of 21 horses from Ireland headed by Gordon Elliott with nine, John McConnell with eight and one each from Jessica Harrington, Henry de Bromhead, Peter Fahey and Denis Hogan. Too early to assess their chances but Elliott’s Zanahiyr in the Masterson Holding Hurdle look the best of the Irish runners.

Dermot Weld’s dual Irish St Leger winner Search For A Song, sixth in this year’s race, will try to add the French equivalent to her CV, as she heads for the Prix Royal Oak on Sunday at Longchamp. Weld is hoping they don’t get too much rain in Paris.

In the bumper in Galway on Sunday, Elliott’s Silver Breeze’s debut fourth in Roscommon followed by runnerup spot at Punchestown looks good enough to win this race.

Review of the Week Last Saturday’s Champions Day at

by Tom Red

Racing News

Siesta Beach and Leigh Roche win at Naas.

Ascot opened with a winning favourite, Trushan, trained by Alan King and ridden by Hollie Doyle. The 5-Y-O won by 1½l and 2½l from 50/1 shot Tashkhan and Stradivarius.

The first of the Group 1 races, The Champion Sprint Stakes, was won by the Charlie Appleby trained and William Buick ridden Creative Force who denied Hollie Doyle a double on Glen Sheil with Minzaal and Jim Crowley in third.

Crowley opened his account in the Fillies & Mares Stakes on Eshaada for Roger Varian, winning from Albaflora and a disappointing favourite from Ballydoyle, Snowfall. The winning distances were a short head and 3½l.

William Haggas and Jim Crowley, completing a Group 1 double, won the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes with the well fancied Baaeed’s victory over the favourite Palace Pier and Lady Bowthorpe by a neck and 1¼l.

The Champion Stakes went for export to France when Cedric Rossi’s Sealiway carried Mickael Barzalona to a ¾l victory over Dubai Honour with Ireland’s

Mac Swiney in third for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning in the final Group 1 race.

The closing Balmoral Handicap saw Jim Crowley complete a treble aboard Aldaary who gave William Haggas a training double. Symbolize and Magic Morning filled the minor places 1½l and 1l behind. Crowley’s three winners are all owned by Shadwell Estate Company and carried the famous blue and white epaulette colours of the late Sheikh Hamdan al Maktoum. Oisin Murphy won his third Champion Rider award by three from William Buick.

In last Saturday’s American Grand National at Far Hills in New Jersey, The Mean Queen, in the hands of Corkonian Ritchie Condon, won from Snap Decision and Amschel. Irish raider Chosen Mate was never a factor for Gordon Elliott and Davy Russell and came in a disappointing last of the 4 runners.

Jury Duty won the race for Elliott and Robbie Power in 2018. The winner had won a point-to-point at Loughanmore, a bumper at Fairyhouse and a maiden hurdle at Wexford before crossing the At-

lantic with trainer Keri Brion. The Mean Queen was one of a few Brion took to Ireland last season, where she finished second in a Down Royal bumper before recording an impressive maiden hurdle success at Wexford.

Trainer Michael O’Callaghan continued his winning streak with his first ever double at Naas on Sunday when 11/4 favourite Admiral D, ridden by 10lb claimer Jake Coen, outclassed his rivals in the Irish EBF Auction Series Nursery. O’Callaghan won the opener with Siesta Beach ridden by Leigh Roche The national hunt season has hardly begun, and an Irish trained raider has won the Durham National on Sunday at Sedgefield. Its feature race of the season was won by the Shark Hanlon-trained Hewick. Ridden by Irish claimer Shane Fenelon, the 6-Y-O won by 6 ½l beating last year’s winner Red Giant leaving connections planning more trips across the Irish Sea. Hanlon is known for getting a bargain and picked up Hewick for €850 as a three-year-old.

Palace Pier has been retired. He won five Group One races for John and Thady Gosden, including the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville in 2020 and 2021. Palace Pier is also a dual winner at Royal Ascot, having taken last season’s St. James’s Palace Stakes and this year’s Queen Anne, while his other top-level triumph came in the Lockinge at Newbury in May. The 4-Y-O won 9 out of 11 and was placed in two Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Champions Day including runner-up spot to Baaeed on what proved to be his final outing on Qipco Champions Day last weekend.

Colin Keane continues to build on Joseph O’Brien’s Irish record of 126 winners with a win at Navan yesterday on Jesse Evans at 1/3 is now on 135.

Point-to-Point News

Saturday’s point-to-point racing in the north is at Loughanmore on the Derry/Antrim border with first race at 1.30 pm and 57 horses entered.

There are two meetings on Sunday with racing at Tattersalls opposite Fairyhouse racecourse with 64 entries, and at Curraghmore, Portlaw in east Waterford south of Carrick-onSuir, 84 entries and both meetings are scheduled to start at 12.30 pm.

Contacted Point-to-Point Racing and they are of the opinion that spectators will still have to pre-register to be allowed access and will have to do so until clarification is received. One can pre-register with p2p.com and get an access QR code to present before entering the venue. Registration will open at 9 am on any Friday in advance of each weekend’s racing on www. p2p.ie. All attendees, industry participants and spectators will have to register.

Shor t putts (News from local golf clubs)

Boyle

Well done to Brendan Gaffney, who won week three of the King Harmon qualifying rounds with 44 points, which he achieved with a 2 over par gross. Conor Hamill came second with 42 points. Each player’s best two cards from the three weekends were used for qualifying purposes, which resulted in a requirement of 74 points to qualify for the match play rounds.

The match-ups for the quarter-finals are: John McGuinn v Jason Beirne; Conor Hamill v Frank Flanagan; Brendan Gaffney v Lochlann Conboy; Owen Garvin v Seán Purcell.

Meanwhile, the Ladies’ AGM takes place on Sunday, November 7th; Men’s AGM on November 14th, and the overall Club AGM on Sunday, November 28th. All meetings start at 5 pm in the clubhouse. Motions to be discussed at an AGM must be with the respective Secretary seven days prior to the meeting, as must nominations to the committees.

Athlone

Derek Kenna (67 nett) won the recent Gents’ Christmas Hamper with Thomas O’Connor (68) taking the gross prize.

Cat A: Paul Costello (68 nett); Class B: Conor Quilty (70); Class C: Derek Martin (69); Cat D: Conal Sheeran (74).

M. O Faolain won the AWGS competition with 29 points while Ann Geoghegan won the Studio 7 18-hole competition on the back nine with 37 points. The 9-hole weekly competition on November 12th was won by Bernie Stapleton with 16 points while the 97 Club on the 14th went to Mary McHale with 23.

The Winter League commences on November 8th. Teams of five cost €50 for members and €450 for visitors.

Contact 090-6492073 or athlonegolfclub@gmail.com for bookings.

Castlerea

The Tony O’Reilly Accountants-sponsored Ladies’ competition was won

by Celia Mulligan with 38 points with Valerie Rabbitt in second place on 36.

Andrew Callaghan (45 points) was best of the Men with Michael Doyle (39) in second place. Cat 1: Jimmy Joyce (36); Cat 2: Alan Devine (38); Cat 3: Eugene Flanagan (38).

Hannah O’Connor was victorious in the recent Corrib Oil Competition with 41 points while Evelyn Curley was runner-up with 35.

Finally, Patrick O’Connor Jnr. won the Tully’s Hotel-sponsored Men’s competition with 39 points, and Padraic Gorham was second with 38. Cat 1: Matt Griffith (36); Cat 2: Alan Woods (36); Cat 3: Dr. Greg Kelly (37).

Athlone Lady Captain and Gents’ Captain presenting a cheque from the recent Ray Fagan Memorial Open Singles Stableford competition to Mary Fagan, wife of the late Ray who passed away last year. Proceeds of the open will be donated to the Beaumont Hospital Foundation. From left to right: David Fagan; Mary Fagan; Eamon Kenny (Captain); Pat McTiernan (Lady Captain); Brendan Fagan. Pic: Padraig Devaney Athlone Golf Club Captain Eamonn Kenny presenting the Senior Scratch Cup (sponsored

by Michael Moore Car Sales) to winner Thomas O’Connor.

Also in the photograph is Sean Walsh, Michael Moore Car Sales.

40

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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another cracker.

This final pairing Continued on page 41

41

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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Darren Donnelly of St. Dominic’s pictured in action against Clann na nGael’s Oliver Harney and Cian Gavin during the recent Intermediate Football Championship semi-final. Pic: Mick McCormack

the one that most would have predicted. Now the question is: who will win the Jimmy Murray Cup and progress into the senior ranks for 2022?

In terms of form, both teams were in the same group and emerged with little fuss. In fact, when they met in Ballyleague, both clubs were already through to the quarterfinals but that game ended in a draw. So no clues there!

The fact that Faithleach’s were relegated two years ago was a bit of a shock and many predicted that they would bounce straight back last year. But the Ballyleague men found that it wasn’t as straightforward as they might have hoped and they ran into a well drilled Dominic’s team in the semi-final and came away empty-handed.

This year, Wally Burke’s men have been playing well, but in the quarter-final they

were severely tested by Fuerty before emerging winners by a point in extra-time. There is a view that Faithleach’s will be a much more battle-hardened side on Sunday after surviving that battle.

In the semi-final they were cruising against Castlerea but they fell asleep in the second half and conceded 1-8 without reply. However, they finished the game in impressive fashion, scoring six points to see out the win.

It’s not long ago that St

Faithleach’s were being considered as possible winners of the Fahey Cup. Any team with the players they have – and particularly Diarmuid and Ciaráin Murtagh – have to be given the most serious consideration. However, the loss of Brian Murtagh, Darragh Hussey and Cian Glennon has to be factored into the equation too.

Looking at both teams line by line, I am giving a hesitant nod to St. Dominic’s to win by a point or two and bring

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It promises to be another blockbuster.

Prediction: St. Dominic’s.

Both teams have quality all over the pitch.

When looking at Faithleach’s, it would be lazy journalism and disrespectful to their other players to concentrate on Ciaráin and Diarmuid Murtagh. Yes, the two county stars are class players and match-winners, but they will not win this final on their own.

Mikey Cox, Darren Nerney (who is an injury doubt), Darren Nerney and David Harrison have been very impressive in defence this year. Out in the middle of the field the experienced Dave Rooney is playing some of the best football of his career, while dual star Conal Kennelly is a very accomplished operator.

Up front, Kevin Farrell, Mikey Dunne and Jonathan Hussey have been adding to the attacking threat from the Murtagh brothers. It has to be said that the loss of the (injured) third Murtagh brother, Brian, will be a big one as he is a leader and an inspiration in this team.

In addition, the injuries to Darragh Hussey and young star Cian Glennon robs Faithleach’s of three excellent club performers.

Dominic’s are a very well coached and capable team. They came within seconds of winning this championship last year and are determined to go one better this time around.

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They have played some excellent football throughout this championship and have put up some serious totals. St. Dominic’s also have a very impressive defence. The experienced Mark Miley is having another great year between the posts. He is an excellent net-minder and a real leader.

Micheal Byrne and Michael Feeley will lead in the full-back line while further out the field Eoin McCormack has been having another super championship at centre half-back. He is not afraid to join in the attack and is another real leader.

In the absence of the injured Keith Doyle (who may be available for Sunday), Tom Appleby and Jack Lohan have been operating in the engine room at midfield and their movement and work rate has been top class.

Up front, the ‘terrific trio’ of Conor Fallon, Daire Keenan and Darren Donnelly have been on fire this year. The irrepressible Fallon defies the passage of time and if anything he is playing better than at any time in a club career which extends back an incredible 25 years. Donnelly and Keenan have been equally as impressive and with Kyron Dockery, Tommy Hurley and David Gately as support, Dominic’s have an attack to be respected and feared.

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42

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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Chairperson: ‘Final date will lift whole club’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Former school principal Michael Cleary is the chairperson of St. Faithleach’s and he fully realises the impact that being in a major county final has throughout the whole club.

“There have been great turnouts at training and although we have been struggling a bit for numbers at underage level, to be in a county

final is a very positive thing as all age groups are aware of the big game coming up and the build-up associated with that,” he said.

“There is great colour with flags and banners up in the parish and the whole community is behind the team. Everyone is talking about the match and it is great that people can go and enjoy it now as well”.

Michael says that when the team

were beaten in the semi-final last year (by St. Dominic’s) there were no complaints. “It was very disappointing to lose to Dominic’s last year but they were the better team and we just had to start again this year and try to get back to the final and thankfully that’s what has happened”.

The chairperson knows that there is very little between the two teams this time around.

“It is finely balanced. When we met Dominic’s earlier in the year it ended in a draw so that’s an indication that we are so evenly matched.

“We know that we will have to produce our best performance of the year if we are to win on Sunday. Naturally, our club wants to be playing senior football and we will have to play really well to get there,” he concluded.

Burke: ‘We want to be playing senior football’ < SEAMUS DUKE

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Club stalwart Wally Burke is the manager of St. Faithleach’s and a man with plenty of club and intercounty management experience.

He began by assessing Faithleach’s form this year so far.

“We were in a tough group alongside St. Dominic’s, Éire Óg and Kilmore. Ourselves and Dominic’s qualified and Éire Óg acquitted themselves very well in the playoffs”.

He admitted that 2020 had been a strange year for everyone at the club.

“It was a tough year with Covid and a lot of the lads training with the county team as well. There wasn’t much preparation time, we had a few injuries and we were deservedly beaten in that semi-final,” he said.

Injuries to key players this year like the experienced Brian Murtagh and Darragh Hussey – and to young Cian Glennon – have been big blows to the Ballyleague men.

“Brian (Murtagh) broke his leg against Kilmore in a very innocuous challenge and he is out for the year.

Cian Glennon got injured playing against Mayo in the (U-20) Connacht final and he is not right yet, and Darragh Hussey tore his Achilles tendon in a challenge game, and they are three county players,” he said.

St. Faithleach’s were leading by 2-12 to 0-2 against Castlerea in the semi-final but then conceded 1-8 without reply, something which caused the management some concern.

“You never like to see that happen but we responded well and kicked a few nice points to pull away again.

If we fall asleep like that on Sunday, Dominic’s will put us to the sword,”

“We are no different to any other club. We want to be playing senior football” – Wally Burke, manager of St Faithleach’s. Photo: Mick McCormack

he added. Wally was adamant there isn’t too much pressure on county stars Ciaráin and Diarmuid Murtagh ahead of Sunday.

“St. Dominic’s are in the same position. They will be looking to Daire Keenan, Darren Donnelly and Conor Fallon and those lads will be under pressure to get the

scores too. But we have plenty of other lads who are doing well this year like Kevin Farrell, Dave Rooney, Johnny Hussey and Stephen Walsh,” he said.

Wally says leading the Ballyleague club back to the senior ranks has been the aim all year long.

“We are no different to any

other club. We want to be playing senior football. I predict that St. Dominic’s will be playing senior football very soon too as they have a lot of young talent coming through. But I hope that happens for them in 12 months’ time! We are hoping that this year it will be our turn,” he concluded.

‘One hurdle to jump’ – Ormsby < SEAMUS DUKE

Stephen Ormsby, who figured prominently in Roscommon’s famous All-Ireland minor win in 2006, says that St. Faithleach’s are back where they want to be – in the county final.

“The aim all year was to get into the county final. We lost the semi-final against St. Dominic’s last year and we wanted to go a step further this

time around. I know it’s a cliché but it’s all about what happens on the day now,” he said.

Injuries to Cian Glennon, Brian Murtagh and Darragh Hussey will be felt on Sunday, he added. “They are a huge loss to us. We wouldn’t be carrying a large panel anyway so to lose three good players like that is a blow. We also have the worry about Darren Nerney who is a doubt for Sunday”.

To win the intermediate championship was always the aim for Faithleach’s this year and they are now just one step away.

“At the start of the year the plan was to win this championship and it was the same for St. Dominic’s and probably for Fuerty too. The results in the championship has borne that out. We have just one hurdle to jump now. Hopefully we can do it,” he concluded.

43

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

SportsPeople ‘Faithleach’s would put fear of God into senior teams’

Tomás determined to lead Dominic’s to ‘promised land’

Young St Dominic’s supporters pictured at the semi-final win in Dr. Hyde Park. Picture: Mick McCormack

< SEAMUS DUKE

In 2020 Tomás Gilleran led St. Dominic’s into the county final against Oran and were it not for a spectacular pointed free from Charlie Carthy that brought the game into extra-time, they would have won the Jimmy Murray Cup. The margins were that fine.

The impressive Dominic’s coach is now more determined than ever to steer his side to glory.

“There was only a hair’s breadth between the teams in the final last year but to be honest we came into that final a little under the radar and we were underdogs. We were trying to win it without too many people paying much heed to us, but the cat is out of the bag this year and there has been a lot of talk (outside our group) that we should get back to a final. We have taken it one game at a time and now we are back where we want to be,” he said.

Tomás says that it will be very hard to separate the teams when it comes to this final.

“A draw is probably a great bet! In fact, if you follow the formlines of Dominic’s and Faithleach’s there is no more than a point between the teams,” he said.

“We actually drew earlier in the championship but it’s hard to read anything into that game as we were both already through (to the quarter-finals). There will be nothing between the teams and it could well come down to something small late in the game to decide it”.

The Dominic’s manager adds: “We are improving.

Last year we had a lot of tough matches played by the time we got to the final. This year we had a few injuries early in the campaign and I always said if we survived and got out of the group we would have bodies coming back. Now a few sessions out from the final everyone on the panel is available for selection.

We are getting stronger,” he said.

Conceding two goals against Clann na nGael and ‘keeper Mark Miley having to make three good saves might suggest a problem

Tomás Gilleran...the impressive Dominic’s coach is more determined than ever to steer his side to glory when they line out against St. Faithleach’s on Sunday. Photo: Mick McCormack

in defence, but the manager says they were expecting to be under pressure at some stage during that semi-final.

“We never like to concede but in the semi-finals of a

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competition you are playing top class teams. Clann were always going to have a good spell but I was impressed that we stemmed the tide and played some

cool and calculated football and increased the gap,” he added.

“The older guys are a great inspiration. Conor Fallon in particular has been some servant to this club.

He gives 100 per cent all the time and does even more work away from the pitch…it’s that attitude that is so infectious and when the younger lads see what he is doing it makes them redouble their efforts,” Tomás said.

On St. Faithleach’s, he had this to say: “If you are sitting up in the stand as a neutral you would say this is going to be a cracking match. They are a fine team.

They are solid at the back and they have powerful runners through the middle and up front of course you have the Murtagh brothers, who are class.

“But Faithleach’s have a full unit of forwards who are all good players and they have more good players coming off the bench so we will be tackling the entire forward unit and working from there – so let’s see how it goes,” he concluded.

St. Dominic’s co-captain Paddy Fallon had been out injured but made an impressive return to the team in the semi-final against Clann na nGael.

“I fractured my heel in the first round of the championship but fortunately I got back on the pitch quicker than I thought. The lads did great!

“This will be a very tough battle. Faithleach’s are a top class side and it is not so long ago that they were competing in county senior finals.

They have a few household names that would put the fear of God into any senior team, never mind intermediate teams, but we know what to expect.

“Conor (Fallon) won’t thank me for saying it but some of the lads on the panel were not even born when he started playing! It’s unbelievable the leadership he is showing and it is great to have the younger lads blending too,” he concluded.

O’Meara: ‘It was a long winter!’

One of an impressive half-back line, St. Dominic’s co-captain Brendan O’Meara will be hoping to avoid the heartbreak of last year and finally get his hands on the Jimmy Murray Cup. “It was a tough loss. The margins do not come any tighter than that. We fell away in extra-time.

It was a long winter for us thinking back on what could have been. But we just got back out on the pitch. We are delighted to be back in the final and the buzz among the group is savage”.

Brendan says that St. Faithleach’s will be formidable opposition. “They are an excellent side. They were unlucky to have been relegated out of the senior championship a couple of years ago. We got one over on them last year (in the semi-final) but they are definitely one of the best teams in the division. There is nothing between us and that’s the way it will be on Sunday”.

-Seamus Duke Best wishes to St. Faithleach’s team and management from all at

Costello’s CARE CENTRE

Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon.

Tel: 043 332 1361

‘You must beat the best!’ – McCormack < SEAMUS DUKE

One of the leaders in the St. Dominic’s team this term has been centre half-back Eoin McCormack. He says that the experience of last year’s loss in the final will spur his side on. “After last year we are going into the final with no fear…it’s a team game and all our lads have been playing really well this year. We played them (St. Faithleach’s) earlier this year and there is nothing between us,” he said.

Eoin knows St. Dominic’s will face a tough task on Sunday if they are to bring home the Jimmy Murray Cup

and progress to the senior ranks. “If you want to progress you have to play against the best and beat them.

We have been training like a senior team so we are really looking forward to the match now.

“There are lads pushing for places all the time; we have a great depth of talent off the bench that we didn’t have before. In the ‘A versus B’ games at training there are players putting their hands up all the time and they are driving on the players on the first 15.

“This will be very close. Our forwards are coming into form at just the right time but it will be very tight. There are no underdogs in this match and it’s going to be a riproaring contest from the very start,” he concluded.

44

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

SportsPeople

Pride of the parish!

Clinical Athleague claim title and local bragging rights Kepak Roscommon SHC Final Athleague 3-12 Tremane 0-15 < SEAMUS DUKE

One of the tried and trusted clichés in sport and in Gaelic Games in particular is that ‘goals win games’ – and that maxim certainly applied to this exciting Roscommon senior hurling final played before a large crowd in Athleague last Sunday.

“A funny game” is how Tremane manager Seamus Qualter described it in the aftermath.

“It was a funny game, but look, goals win matches and Athleague got three and we got none. They pulled away after the second water break, and when they went four, five, six points ahead we were struggling. Whenever we got a score they could get one back.

“But fair play to them they were the best team on the day and they deserved to win it. It was a good, clean, sporting hurling match with great support for both teams”.

Athleague came good in the final quarter when they were down to 14 men (Alan Moore had been sent off in the 38th minute). The eventual winners knocked over a number of match-winning points to deny the gallant Tremane men.

Athleague manager, Padraig Mannion, praised his side’s determination despite being a man down.

“We have got used to playing with 14 men this year (laughs). We had to do it against Pádraig Pearses and again today and we played super hurling when we went down a man. But I felt

Members of the Athleague squad and supporters celebrate after Athleague win the Kepak Roscommon SHC final last Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack.

sorry for Alan (Moore), he is a legend in this club and our win today was for him and his family,” he said.

It was a unique final pairing in the modern era and the first meeting of the two parish teams in 41 years. There was a carnival atmosphere in Athleague as neighbours and friends gathered to

see who would secure the bragging rights.

For most of the first half, it was Tremane who did all the hurling and with Niall Kilroy in magnificent form, it looked like it would be Seamus Qualter’s team taking the Mickey Cunniffe Cup home. But despite playing poorly, Athleague managed to score two vital goals in that opening

Members of the Athleague squad and supporters celebrate after Athleague win the Kepak Roscommon SHC final last Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack.

Members of the Athleague squad and supporters celebrate after Athleague win the Kepak Roscommon SHC final last Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack.

period which kept them in the game. When they started to play well in the final quarter, those scores proved decisive.

Just a minute before the dismissal of Moore, Athleague got a third goal and it set them up for victory. After the sending off they brought Aengus Lyons (continued on page 45)

45

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

SportsPeople

THE CLASH OF THE ASH, THE CLASH OF THE PARISHES! Pictured in action during the Kepak Roscommon SHC Final which was played in Athleague last Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack.

out the field and he was superb, and with Ronan O’Meara outstanding, Athleague finally got on top and they deserved to win in the end.

The match was played in perfect weather conditions. It was Tremane who looked the better team for most of the first half. There seemed to be acres of room in front of Niall Kilroy and the county dual star took full advantage, giving the Athleague rearguard a torrid time.

However, in almost their first attack, in the 7th minute, Athleague scored a fine goal when Eoin Ward blasted home after a great long ball in from Gary Fallon. With Kilroy to the fore, it was not long before Tremane were level again, but then in the 17th minute, Athleague were in for goal number two when Cormac Kelly was on target after being set up by Naoise Coyle and Eoin Ward.

It was Tremane, however, who led 0-10 to 2-3 at half-time, with Kilroy accounting for nine of their ten points.

Athleague’s third goal, which came in the 37th minute, was of the very soft variety. A long ball from Cormac Kelly caused consternation in the Tremane full-back line and Robbie Fallon was on hand to tap home.

The sending off of Alan Moore for an off the ball incident looked like it might be a serious blow to Athleague, but they rejigged their forces

and started to play some great hurling.

From the 40th minute to the 52nd minute, Padraig Mannion’s team scored six points without, reply leaving them six to the good. They never looked back after that.

Tremane never gave up, but Athleague had made the decisive move of the match and sub Cian Murray knocked over two fine points towards the end. The title was theirs for the 20th time.

Manager Padraig Mannion highlighted the three goals as pivotal moments in the match.

“We said before the game today if we could score a couple of goals and not to concede at the other end would be key. But they got plenty of scores. Niall Kilroy is a super hurler. You can’t stop the points but you can stop the goals and we did that well today,” he said.

“To be involved in this final was really special for the players. They play underage together. It was a really special occasion. This is a fantastic win for us. I am living in Ballygar so I was a bit away from the build-up but I saw what it was like every night I came down to training”.

For Athleague, veterans Niall Connolly and Dave Connell were excellent and Eoghan Coyle did very well at centre half-back. Ben McGahon was once again prominent at midfield, while up front Ronan O’Meara and Aengus Lyons were

superb in the second half and Lyons in particular was a definite contender for the player of the match.

For Tremane, it was a disappointing day and their over-reliance on Niall Kilroy for scores cost them dearly on. Sean Melia, Peter Kellehan and Niall Keenan did well for them too, but in the final analysis Athleague were deserved and worthy winners.

Athleague: David Connell; Niall Connolly, David Delaney, Mark Ward; Naoise Coyle, Eoghan Coyle, Alan Moore; Darragh Heavey, Ben McGahon (0-5, 2 frees, ’65, s/l); Gary Fallon, Ronan O’Meara (0-1), Cormac Kelly (1-0); Eoin Ward (1-1), Robbie Fallon (1-1), Aengus Lyons (0-2). Subs: Cian Murray (0-2) for G Fallon (44), Pat Nolan for Delaney (55), David Flaherty for R Fallon (57), Stephen Kilcommins for Heavey (65).

Tremane: Liam Óg Murray; Seamus Lynch, Sean Melia, Adrian Flanagan; Cathal Mahony, Joe Brennan, Warren Boyle; Peter Kellehan, Padraic Brennan; David Mullen, Niall Keenan, Cathal Brennan; Sean Mahony, Niall Kilroy (0-12, 8 frees), Darren Gately (0-1). Subs: John Brennan (0-2) for Lynch (h/t), Michael Brennan for Mahony (45), Brian Keenan for Flanagan (50), Kevin Brennan for Mullen (52).

Referee: Aaron Clogher.

Man of the match Ronan: ‘Crucial scores clinched title’ Speaking at the full-time whistle, Athleague star and man of the match, Ronan O’Meara, was delighted to secure a coveted Roscommon senior title and said the timing of his side’s scores proved crucial.

“We were able to deal with being down a man against Pearses so we didn’t panic when we went down to 14. County finals can throw up anything and we were prepared. It was all about the next ball every time and that’s what we concentrated on,” he said.

“We got the crucial scores at the crucial times and we kept the lead over three points there near the end. The lads dug really deep in the second half.

“We knew at half-time that in the second half, with the wind, the puck-outs would be going longer and our clearances were getting better. We got vital scores just when we needed them. I am so delighted to win this final,” he concluded.

Pictured in action during the Kepak Roscommon SHC Final which was played in Athleague last Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack

Stat attack Wides: Athleague 5 (3, first half ); Tremane 10 (6, first half ) Red cards: Athleague 1 (Alan Moore, 38); Tremane 0 Yellow cards: Athleague 2 (David Delaney Eoghan Coyle); Tremane 2 (Niall Keenan, Cathal Brennan) Man of the Match: Ronan O’Meara (Athleague)

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

SportsPeople

ATHLEAGUE’S DERBY DELIGHT Pictured at Sunday’s Roscommon Senior Hurling Final (Photos: Mick McCormack)

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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The

Weekend Rewind

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47

Weekend Fast-forward

THE KNOW-ALL

PUNDIT...

All Saints Day!

ARE YOU LOOKING AT ME?! Young Gearoid Fallon from Athleague pictured moments after Athleague had triumphed in the County Senior Hurling Final.

Photo: Mick McCormack

Senior status the goal for Dominic’s and Faithleach’s < PAUL HEALY

St. Dominic’s and St. Faithleach’s will meet in what promises to be a fascinating Roscommon Intermediate Football final on Sunday, with a huge prize at stake: title glory, and a passage to the senior ranks.

It’s one of the most eagerly anticipated finals in years, with two ambitious clubs going head to head after impressive campaigns that were marked by quality football and high-scoring displays.

The teams played a close semi-final last season, with St. Dominic’s edging it. When they met earlier this year, albeit at a point when both teams had advanced in their group, the resulting draw was further evidence of how well matched they are on their day.

St. Dominic’s manager Tomás Gilleran says his team is improving and in good shape ahead of Sunday’s final.

“We are improving. Last year we had a lot of tough matches played by the time we got to the final. This year we had a few injuries early in the campaign and I always said if we survived and got out of the group we would have bodies coming back.

“Now a few sessions out from the final everyone on the panel is available for selection. We are getting stronger”.

For his part, St. Faithleach’s manager Wally Burke is hoping that injuries to key players won’t halt his team’s march.

Three county players – Brian Murtagh, Darragh Hussey and Cian Glennon – are injury casualties, a big blow to the Ballyleague side. St. Dominic’s, for their part, have missed the injured Keith Doyle, who could yet figure in the final.

Both teams have been in impressive

form, scoring freely and winning their respective semi-finals with lots to spare.

It’s all to play for at Hyde Park on Sunday (3 pm).

Meanwhile, last Sunday’s eagerly awaited County Senior Hurling final did not disappoint, with favourites Athleague recovering from the sending off of Alan Moore to beat their friends and neighbours, Tremane, by 3-12 to 0-15.

Niall Kilroy, with 0-12, was inspirational for a gallant Tremane, but Athleague, spurred on by man of the match Ronan O’Meara, were deserved winners. Ultimately, their three goals proved decisive, as Tremane manager Seamus Qualter graciously observed, summing up the game thus: “It was a funny game, but look, goals win matches and Athleague got three and we got none...fair play to them they were the best team on the day and they deserved to win it”.

Lennon is new Ladies manager Ollie Lennon was this week announced as the new manager of the Roscommon ladies football team, replacing Diane O’Hora who stepped down in August.

Lennon, who is on the verge of leading Kilbride to their sixth county senior championship in a row, replaces the Mayo woman, who left the post amid reports of

player revolt.

The Drum native, who was ratified at a county board meeting on Monday evening, currently works as the Roscom-

mon GAA Games Development Officer and has targeted promotion from Lidl Ladies National Football League Division Three next year.

Well my friend...St Dominic’s v St Faithleach’s!

Yes, the excitement is building!

So, you’re the expert! What will make the difference?

Passion! Nothing else!

Really?

Yes...well, that and commitment.

And nothing else?

Well, maybe hunger as well.

Is that it?

Er...and determination?

So the winners will be the team with the most passion, commitment, hunger and determination?

Yes, exactly!

Anything else?

Well, scoring power too. Goals win games!

You’re such a spoofer.

Unfair!

I mean, you really are into the old clichés, aren’t you?

Are you saying I’m a hurler on the ditch?

Well...

A barstool expert?

Well...

Look, whoever wants it the most will win!

Now that’s one cliché I really do have an issue with...in a final, surely both teams want it as badly as the other?

Small margins make big memories!

Any more insights?

Yes, I think whoever gives one hundred and ten percent will almost certainly win.

One hundred and ten percent?

Yes, in fact there are a few players involved who give two hundred percent every time they play!

That’s another cliché I have a problem with... in my opinion, you can’t give any more than one hundred percent!

Do you think so? What about Roy Keane, didn’t he always give one hundred and ten percent?

But...

And Lee Keegan, sure he gives one hundred and twenty-five percent!

But...you can’t give any more than one hundred percent! Because one hundred percent is EVERYTHING you have.

What if you held a bit back...and produced it at the end?

Then you haven’t been giving one hundred percent! Anyways, what’s your prediction? And don’t say a game of two halves! Or that it will go down to the wire...

Very simple. St Dominic’s v St Faithleach’s will be a classic!

But who’s gonna win?

Easy!

Huh? Told you already...THE TEAM THAT WANTS IT THE MOST! The team that’s hungriest. Actually, whichever team wants it the most in the LAST TEN MINUTES! You sure?

Yeah...I’m one hundred and fifteen percent sure!

Roscommon GAA to vote ‘Proposal B’ The Roscommon County Board has confirmed that its delegates will be voting in favour of Motion 19 (Proposal ‘B’) this Saturday (23rd) at GAA Special Congress following discussions with players, and management. The board said the proposal was also backed by a strong majority of clubs.

Proposal B would see the National League and championship linked, with each team playing seven matches, and then filtering into an All-Ireland series. Provincial championships would be retained, but as pre-season competitions.

Support is growing for the proposal which will be voted on by secret ballot this Saturday.

Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021

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