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Christmas Arrangements

The next issue of Roscommon People will be published on Thursday morning, 6th January 2022.

The offices of Roscommon People at Abbey Street, Roscommon, will be closed from 6pm on Wednesday, 22nd December and will re-open on Tuesday, 4th January 2022.

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie

Tel. (090) 66 34633

24 December 2021

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 764

The Editor and staff of Roscommon People wish everyone a Happy, Holy and Peaceful Christmas and sincere best wishes for a Healthy and Happy New Year

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

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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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 Christmaswww.bccsolicitors.ie Humour

Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a fat bank account and a thin body. Please don‘t confuse it as you did last year. The office Christmas party is a great opportunity to catch up with people you haven’t seen for twenty minutes. Why is Christmas like a day at the office? Because you do all the work, and the fat guy in the suit gets all the credit. Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year. Christmas is a state of mind and that special feeling that only comes with an empty bank account. The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband. - Joan Rivers. Christmas is a time when you get homesick, even when you’re home. Christmas is a time when everybody wants his past forgotten and his present remembered.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

That 8 pm closing, contract talks... and a Happy Christmas to all! Well, that was a nice night out... Night? Huh? A nice night? I don’t follow... We’re home from the pub...and Eastenders is barely over! Can’t exactly call it a night! Oh yeah, that! CYCLING ACCIDENT I mean, it’s ridiculous! I know! When wentintoathe pub, the Six One If you werewe involved cycling accident contact News had just started... Byrne Carolan Yeah... Cunningham Solicitors And last orders were called while Coronation Street was on... Yeah... And now we’re home, and like I said, Eastenders is barely over! I know... What are we to do? Well, when we finish this phone call, I guess I’ll watch the Nine O’Clock News... But that’s usually the same news as they show at six o’clock... Not tonight. Tonight they’ll lead with footage of pubs closing at 8 o’clock! That’s hardly going to lift my mood, is it? Spose not! Well, it’s a crazy world...rural pubs that usually don’t open until 5,6,7,8 or 9 o’clock now having to close at 8! I know...certainly makes it apt that we’re listening to that dramatic closing theme music of Eastenders! By the way, is spose a word? Dunno! Is ‘dunno’ a word! Dunno! Spose it is – by now! We’ll have to check with our old friend... The Man Who Knows Everything! Yeah...some evening before 8 o’clock!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

An open tab in our local, for starters! Great idea! So the Editor sets up an account for us in our local? Exactly! And generous travel expenses, that’s essential! As in our taxi fare covered! And I may also insist on the odd restaurant review! Huh? The Editor pays us to attend restaurants and review the food! Love it! Have you had much success with the financial side of contract negotiations in the past? Well I negotiated our current contract! Oh no! (Hums dramatic closing theme music of Eastenders). (They pause to compare notes as to how advanced they are with their Christmas shopping; both of them break into a cold sweat)

(They pause to check if there are any more Boris Johnson party stories) So, January will be a big month for us! Huh? Decision time! Huh? Those contract talks...with the Editor! About our column! Oh yeah! We need to play hardball! Leave it with me! I assume we want to continue writing this column every week? Just leave the negotiations with me! What have you in mind? Well...apart from our fee, we need some perks!

Let’s wish a Happy Christmas to all our readers! Yep! And Happy Christmas to all frontline workers! And Happy Christmas to anyone who’s lonely, in despair, feeling sad or lost. Yes...and a gentle reminder to them that there’s help available. And a reminder to all our readers to please reach out to family, friends, neighbours....by phone, email, social media, in person (respecting Covid-19 guidelines)... please look out for anyone who may be sad, lonely, etc. Once again we’re showing resilience in tough times...now let’s look out for one another...stay safe...spend time with family...and here’s to better times in the New Year. Both: Yes, here’s to good times. HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

The three most terrifying words to read on Christmas Eve: “Some assembly required.”

What we liked…

Jockey Rachael Blackmore’s winning run on the awards front at the weekend. She was named RTE Sportsperson of the Year – and BBC World Sport Star for 2021. The RTE shortlist was a striking reflection of an amazing year in women’s sport, with Kellie Harrington (a shoo-in for the overall award if it was any other year), Leona Maguire and Katie Taylor amongst those being recognised.

Christmas is the one time you get to experience all the excitement of rush hour traffic in the shopping centre carpark. Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall. Thank you to all our loyal clients for your continued support and confidence placed in us throughout the year. Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Safe, Healthy and Prosperous 2022.

What we didn’t like…

It’s been hard for people to come to terms with the current bleak outlook in respect of the pandemic, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin stating on Tuesday that Ireland is facing a very challenging January.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

What PEOPLE are talking about…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

Athleague's Laura Fleming is tackled by Niamh Leen of Clanmaurice during the 2020 AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Semi-Final which was held at Fr. McNamara Park, Ennis, Co. Clare last weekend. Picture: ©INPHO/Ken Sutton

Covid-19, including restrictions imposed on hospitality; Build-up to Christmas; Rachael Blackmore (Irish jockey who is sweeping the boards at awards’ ceremonies after her phenomenal feats in 2021)…

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Wishing all of our readers, advertisers and correspondents a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year

The local paper! Abbey Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 34633

E.: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

www.roscommonpeople.ie

• Please note that a contribution is being made to a local charity in lieu of Christmas Cards and Gifts.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

‘Disgust’ at graffiti on new Square < DAN DOONER

Local residents and business people have expressed

“disgust” and “deep disappointment” following the discovery of graffiti on the new-look Roscommon

town Square this week. The graffiti which was spray-painted on the newly-paved footpath outside

the front door of the Bank of Ireland was discovered on Monday morning. Local councillor and Chairperson of Roscommon Tidy Towns, Kathleen Shanagher said she was “disgusted” by the act of vandalism. “What can I say? I’m just disgusted by this, I really am. After all the praise the new Square received at the recent Christmas Festival, to discover this is appalling,” she said. “I would urge anyone who saw anything or who may have been walking in the area and noticed anything suspicious, to contact Roscommon Garda Station with any information”.

Graffiti was discovered on Monday morning outside the Bank of Ireland on newly-laid paving in The Square, Roscommon.

THE LAST POST! Postman Mick to retire on Christmas Eve

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< DAN DOONER

Popular local postman, Mick Lohan, will call time on his career this Christmas Eve following 25 years at the handlebars and behind the wheel for An Post in Ballygar and Roscommon town. A number of residents had been in contact with the Roscommon People in order to highlight Mick’s work ethic and community spirit throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The postman went above and beyond, as he delivered messages and

A Christmas present suggestion... What do Fergal O’Donnell, Mickey Menton, Ciaran Mullooly, Paul Healy, Seamus Hayden, Ollie Hannon, Brian Keenan, John O’Mahony, Ken Kearney, Damien O’Reilly, Fran McNulty, Sinead Hussey, Tony McManus, Paddy Joe Burke, Padraig Oates, Kevin McStay. Dan Dooner, Michael Mixer Ryan, Larry O’Gara, Frankie Dolan, Gerry Lohan, Una Quinn, James Bracken, Willie Hegarty, Sean Boland, Kevin Egan and Ian Cooney have in common? They have all been interviewed for ‘Dukie, The Game of Life’ written by local broadcaster and Roscommon People journalist Seamus Duke. It’s a memoir of his 32 years in

the local media and growing up and living in Roscommon Town. The book is available locally for sale at The Roscommon People offices, John Corcoran Menswear, Eight Til’ Late, Casey’s Roscommon, SuperValu Main Street Roscommon, Newsround Roscommon and Longford, Mulvey’s Carrick on Shannon, Timothy’s Londis Roscommon, O’Brien’s Corner Corner Lanesboro, Dawn Till Dusk Strokestown, Cahill’s SuperValu Castlerea. Kelly’s SuperValu Boyle, Cooney Motors Boyle, Londis Boyle, Killoran’s Ballyfarnon, Newsround Ballaghaderreen, Duffy’s SuperValu Ballaghandereen, Seanie Macs Ballaghaderreen,

Burgess Bookshop Athlone, Naughten’s Ballydangan, SuperValu Monksland and Salmons Ballinasloe. Nationwide the distribution is being handled by Padraig Kelly PKSupplies.ie Or contact Seamus Duke on 086-8335380

newspapers as well as the regular post. Mick, who hails from Ballygar, says he’ll miss the work but is looking forward to a happy retirement. “I used to start work at half five each morning… but they took pity on me and then I started at a quarter past six,” Mick joked as he made his way around Castlemanor in Roscommon early on Tuesday morning. “I do Castlemanor and then in and around Oran, Donamon and Ballinaheglish. It’s a big area but not too populated. The people are very nice…even the dogs aren’t too bad to me! “I’ve been working for An Post for the last 25 years. I was late into this

job and I started out in Ballygar in the 1970s on a bicycle. I do a small bit of farming too,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed every day of the work as a postman and getting to meet new people. I’ve no plans for retirement…good health is the main thing”. Asked how he found working throughout the lockdown restrictions as cases continued to rise and people were forced to stay home, modest Mick played down his own essential service: “People found it hard (especially) older people…but (the work) wasn’t too bad, you just keep your distance and there’s no problem”. Mick said he’s “not a great man for talking” but was happy to just be

a friendly everyday presence. “I’m looking forward to retirement but I’ll miss the job. There are a few people I’d like to thank: the late Donal O’Leary, the Lord have mercy on him. He first asked me to do the post in Ballygar…I wasn’t too fond of school at the time so I went and did it,” he said. “Later on, Mr. Seamus Mulhern asked me to go into Roscommon and that was it. I’d also like to thank all the colleagues I worked with over the years”. Mick will make his final rounds on Christmas Eve with the best wishes of residents and colleagues for a happy and healthy retirement.

Popular local postman, Mick Lohan, will retire from An Post this Christmas Eve.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

Roscommon Community Challenge 2022 Roscommon Community Sports Park and Roscommon Special Olympics in association with the Roscommon Sports Partnership have launched the 9th annual Roscommon Community Challenge which will take place on the Friday 4th of March 2022. Like many annual charity events over the past 2 years, COVID-19 prevented the event from going ahead in 2021 but the organisers are determined that the 2022 event will be as big and successful as ever. Previously known as The Ronan McCormack Challenge, this has always been a wellsupported event, having raised nearly €200,000 since its inauguration in 2013. This is due to the generosity of the participants, sponsors and volunteers down through the years. Many charities have benefited from the event in the past such as Pieta House, Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice and the Jack and Jill Foundation. This year, the proceeds will go to the Roscommon Special Olympics club and the Roscommon Community Sports Park. The Roscommon Community Sports Park is a wonderful facility catering for the needs of everyone in Roscommon Town and surrounding areas. The facility comprises of a 3G Astro Pitch (a full size or 3 smaller size pitches), a multipurpose building, which includes 4 dressing rooms, toilets and shower facilities and a comprehensive meeting room area which is available to local groups for rent. The proceeds raised will go to the upkeep and development of the facility. The Roscommon Special Olympics club have been longtime supporters and beneficiaries of this event. The club provides bowling, swimming, boccia and athletics for Special Olympic athletes. Many athletes have successfully represented the Roscommon Special Olympics club on the national and

international stage in the past and proceeds raised would ensure that the services can continue to be provided and increase participation. Participants can walk, jog, run or even crawl the 5K or 10K routes. The Roscommon

Community Sports Park will be the headquarters and starting point for both the 5K and 10K routes and both routes will be signposted and marshalled along the way. The routes will bring participants along a moonlight tour of

Roscommon town. The event is open to everyone, and it is the perfect way to kickstart a healthy 2022. Everyone from beginners to accomplished runners are welcome to take part, and people of all

ages and abilities are encouraged to join in. This is the ideal event to get everyone back into fitness who are tired of being cooped up inside and who may have lost track during the pandemic. The aim of this event is to have fun,

race at their own pace and engage in physical activity while raising vital funds for two very worthy causes. It is hoped that this event will be supported by all local running and athletics clubs, walking groups, the

ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY CHALLENGE 2022

MOONLIGHT

5K/10K WALK/ RUN

Event Fee: Adults €15 Kids €5 (Over 12s)

FRIDAY 4TH MARCH @ 8PM Training every Monday and Wednesday starting @ 7PM on 5th Jan from Roscommon Community Sports Park 8 week training fee: €20 (does not include entry fee to main event) REGISTER ONLINE ONLY | ALL ABILITIES WELCOME Roscommon Sports Partnership in association with Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Community Sports Park MORE INFO: info@rosactive.org | 090 6630853 | 0861721181 ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY SPORTS PARK

local secondary schools and all members of local sports clubs or gyms. As usual for this event, the training programme is also returning. These have been very popular through the years and are tailored to suit the need of every participant. Perhaps you might want to run or walk off the New Year festivities or work up to successfully completing the 5 or 10k challenge or for those who want to walk each evening in the company of other walkers then this is the place for you. The 8-week training programme leads right up to the night of the event and will be delivered by fully qualified training instructors under the guidance of Noel and staff at Roscommon Sports Partnership. The training will be a gradual build up to either the 5K or 10K for both walkers and runners. The training programme is aimed at walkers, joggers and runners of all abilities. The training will take place every Monday and Wednesday from the 5th of January at 7pm at the Roscommon Community Sports Park. This year, the registration for both the training programme and the event itself will be done online only via Eventbrite. The link to register can be found on the Roscommon Community Challenge and Roscommon Sports Partnership Facebook pages or on our website www.rosactive.org. The fee for the 8-week training programme is €20, while the entry fee for the main event on the 4th of March is €15 for adults and €5 for children (the training fee does not include entry to the main event). All participants must have paid their registration online prior to the event in order to be insured to take part. Tea/coffee will be available for participants after the event at the Sports Park, all participants are encouraged to enjoy a hot refreshment and have a chat and reflect on the evening. For more information contact info@rosactive. org or phone 086 1721181/090 6630853.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

Christmas message from Rossies abroad! This week, we received a number of Christmas greetings from the Roscommon diaspora ahead of the festive season… “Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas including Nanny and Grandad Martin and Kathleen Kelly in Castleplunkett and all our family and friends. Lots of love, Shonagh Beirne and Daniel in Dubai, UAE”. “Happy Christmas to Mom, Dad and the three brothers in Celtic Avenue, Roscommon town. It’s a pity we couldn’t make it again this year but at least I didn’t have the make the excuse myself for a change! Hope you have a fantastic Christmas and a better New Year. From Jason Croghan and Hui in Hangzhou, China”. “This year will be extra-special for me as I have managed to make it home for the first

time in four years. Obviously, Covid was the obstacle last year, but apart from teaching, I DJ in Abu Dhabi at the weekends so couldn’t make it home the last couple of years as I was busy with that. “It was also extra-special as I will be spending it with girlfriend Amy, who’s from Leeds, and it’s our first visit to Ireland together to meet my family. It’s also her first time home in almost two years. “There is nothing more special then spending Christmas at home with family and friends. Being away for so long really makes you appreciate the important things in life at home, as well as being able to avail of Mam’s never-ending home cooking of course! “I will be ringing in the New Year in Abu Dhabi however, as we are back to school on January 2nd, but want to take this opportunity to wish all my family and friends, home or away, a very merry Christmas and peaceful New Year. From Shane Reynolds, Elphin via Abu Dhabi, UAE”.

TOP: Shane Reynolds, Elphin, and Amy Rawlings, Leeds, who currently reside in Abu Dhabi, UAE. RIGHT: Jason Croghan who currently resides in Hangzhou, China, where he recently appeared as an extra in box-office hit ‘The Battle of Lake Changjin’.

Shonagh Beirne and Daniel Djukovic, who currently reside in Dubai, UAE.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople ED! OV M VE HA E W

Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel. 090 66 24780 www.johnstonspharmacy.ie

Eabha and Jean Nally pictured at the Christmas Market at The Hub, Castlerea recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Wishing all our customers a very happy and healthy Christmas and very best wishes for the New Year

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ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL OFFICES AT ÁRAS AN CHONTAE, ROSCOMMON TOWN AND MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OFFICES • Closed from Friday 24th December 2021 to Monday 3rd January 2022 inclusive. • Offices will reopen on Tuesday 4th January 2022 with the following restrictions: o Public Hours for unscheduled access from 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday for Housing, Planning, Motor Tax and Cash Office. Services outside these hours is by appointment. For all other services, access is by appointment only. o Athlone, Roscommon and Boyle Municipal District Offices will open from 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Services outside these hours is by appointment. o Telephone 090 66 37100 for all appointments. • For Emergencies please contact 090 66 37100.

LIBRARIES • Roscommon, Castlerea and Boyle libraries are open on Thursday, 23rd December 2021 – from 10.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm • All Libraries closed from Friday 24th December 2021 to Monday 3rd January 2022 inclusive. • Roscommon, Castlerea and Boyle libraries will reopen on Tuesday 4th January 2022 – normal opening hours • Ballaghaderreen and Strokestown libraries remain closed for renovations works, while Elphin library is closed due to COVID restrictions. • The mobile library will run as normal on 23rd December 2021 and will recommence from Wednesday, 5th January 2022. • Library Services will continue to be available online.

CIVIC AMENITY SITES • Open Monday 20th December 2021, Thursday 23rd December 2021 and Thursday 30th December 2021 from 8.00am to 4.00pm • Open Tuesday 4th January 2022 from 8.00am to 4.00pm • Ballaghaderreen, Boyle and Castlerea Civic Amenity Sites closed for lunch from 1.00pm to 1.30pm • Roscommon Civic Amenity Site open through lunch Caitlín Conneely A/Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Wishing you all a safe and happy Christmas from ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’

Wishing you all a very happy and safe Christmas and every good wish for the New Year Working Hard For You (Above) Daniel and Caroline Doherty, Kate Emma and Roisin Doherty, Niamh and Caoimhe McDonagh pictured at the Christmas Market at The Hub, Castlerea recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

(Left) Bridget Flanagan and Wendy Walton pictured at the Christmas Market at The Hub, Castlerea recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

The

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New War of Independence novel has Roscommon connection ‘Fierce Tears, Frail Deeds’ is a first novel by Dr. Anne Good Forrestal and a first publication by Seaweed Mill Press. The author’s grandmother, Delia Mac Caoilte (Finlay), was originally from Roscommon and the family still has connections in the area. The novel is based on events in the

lives of the author’s grandparents, Sean and Delia Mac Caoilte, most especially in 1922. This historical novel is set in the period between the signing of the Treaty in 1921 and the outbreak of the Civil War in 1922. The story opens in 1968, when Delia, approaching the end of her long life, finally decides to release

an unfinished memoir written by her husband, Sean, on his return from America. In March 1922, Sean was part of a three-man delegation sent to the US by the Free State to present the case for implementation of the Treaty. His writings on how the delegates developed their strategy to convince

the American people of the proTreaty side and his reflections on how America impacted on him are interwoven with Delia’s memories of her own experiences in his absence. ‘Fierce Tears, Frail Deeds’ is available to buy through www.seaweedmillpress.com.

10th Saddlers Inn Tractor Drive in aid of brave Dylan Travers

Catch of the Day! Pictured are Padraig and Patrick Corcoran at Barley Harbour, Lough Ree, where young Patrick landed this 16lb 10½ ounce catch last Sunday. Padraig runs Mount Plunkett Nature Reserve and Lough Ree Boat Hire in Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

On January 1st, 2022, The Saddlers Inn Tractor Drive will celebrate its tenth anniversary. The Kneale family home was devastated by a fire in November 2011 and in a bid to help and raise funds for the family The Saddlers Inn organised and hosted its first Tractor Drive in 2012. It was a huge success and enjoyed by all so the Tractor Drive became an annual event since then. From nine drives so far, organisers have raised over €26,000 for local families and national charities. 619 tractors have registered for the drives and €14,000 of the money raised has helped four local families and for that, organisers thank all those who have taken part, donated and contributed in any way over the years. On January 1st, 2022, you are asked to come and take part in the annual Tractor Drive in aid of a very special boy. Dylan Travers is three-year-old from Keshcarrigan, Co. Leitrim and was recently diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood cancer affecting four in one million. Dylan is the son of Sophia and Andrew

Travers, twin brother of Summer and baby brother of Mia and is currently receiving chemotherapy in Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Once Dylan finishes his chemotherapy he will travel abroad to receive further treatment. The family of Sophia and Andrew have set up a Gofundme page to assist them with their expenses as Dylan receives his treatment, it is called ‘Our baby Dylan on his cancer journey’. Sophia, Dylan’s mother, has an Instagram page called Dylans_Journey_, give it a follow as she documents Dylan’s treatment and progress. Registration of tractors will commence at 12 pm on Saturday, January 1st with the drive leaving from The Saddlers Inn, Kingsland, Boyle, Co. Roscommon (F52HV07) at 1 pm, and €20 entry fee per tractor. Organisers would love to see a large turnout of tractors on the day and ask everyone who attends to adhere to the Government’s health advice in relation to Covid 19. You can follow the event on Facebook: The Tractor Drive. For further information or any queries, please call 087-2595560 or 086-0772183.

The annual Saddlers Inn Tractor Drive on January 1st, 2022, is in aid of Dylan Travers from Keshcarrigan, Co. Leitrim who was recently diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood cancer.

Mykidstime social media prize for ‘Cian’s Kennels’ Santa arrived early to Cian’s Kennels this week with news that the local charity has been selected as one of the 12 chosen charities to win a social media advertising prize worth €3,500 from Mykidstime! Based in Longford, Cian’s Kennels is a charitable organisation which was set up in March 2020 in memory of 15-year-old Cian Neary, who sadly passed away in September 2019. Cian had been diagnosed with hepatosplenic T cell lymphoma in September 2018 and as he underwent treatment formed a special bond with his family’s pet Golden Labrador, Cooper. When in hospital, Cian

missed Cooper so with the help and goodwill of many people and organisations, the Nearys managed to bring Cooper to Dublin, where he stayed at kennels to be close to Cian, who was receiving treatment in Crumlin. Cian’s Kennels was established in the summer of 2019 with the aim of bringing pets closer to sick children and their families. Thanks to Vincent Collins and the staff at Service Matters, the charity also recently received new jackets and polo shirts for all Cian’s Kennels volunteers. The team at Cian’s Kennels wishes to say a big thank Vincent Collins of Service Matters Ltd recently you to Vincent and all his sponsored new jackets and polo tops for Cian’s Kennels staff. volunteers.

Pictured are Martin Devaney, Angela Molloy and Willie Creighton who cycled from Ballina to Croke Park on the eve of the All-Ireland SFC Final in aid of two charities, Ballina Sensory Park and Mayo Roscommon Hospice, raising an incredible €13,141. They are pictured presenting a cheque to Sinead O’Malley from Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation for €6570.50. Photo: David Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Now providing an Outreach Service in Roscommon Satires Towey, Noah Flynn, Loughlin Towey and Sean Flynn pictured at Hannon’s Hotel before the start of the recent Santa Hat Walk/Run. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Santa’s elves Marion and Joanne pictured at Hannon’s Hotel for the Santa Hat Run/Walk. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The Athlone (Midland) Rape Crisis Centre provides a free and confidential counselling service to clients from the age of 14 years, who have suffered the trauma of sexual violence of any kind. l Sessions are by appointment. l Our counsellors are professionally

qualified and accredited.

l We are now providing an

outreach service in Roscommon.

Winner of the children’s race Noah Flynn pictured at Hannon’s Hotel with his proud dad Donal. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

For appointment or if you need support ring freephone 1800 306 600

The Connolly family – Eva, John, Eoghan, Daniel and Faelia – pictured at Hannon’s Hotel for the Santa Hat Walk/Run. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is the State’s money advice service, guiding people through money matters for over 25 years.

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mabs.ie Funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Counting down the days until 2022! Our man Frank on a wonderful local calendar, the rise of Creggs Rugby in Connacht, entertainment at Midnight Mass and a Christmas wish for readers… As we all know by now – or at least should know – Christmas comes at the end of the year, and it is customary for next year’s calendars to make their appearance around this time. For as long as I can remember, we always got one from O’Rourke’s in Creggs, and from various other local businesses and enterprises. O’Rourke’s calendar was always full of interesting stuff although sadly, the tradition came to an end in recent years. However, the other day, I came across a calendar produced by the Kilbegnet Historical Society, and it’s a production that they should be immensely proud of. Everyone in the parish and much further afield should

consider getting it for themselves, or as a lovely Christmas present for friends and family. Entitled ‘Fond memories of bygone days’ the calendar features amazing images of life in the olden days – from O’Sullivan Bere’s campsite in 1602, to present day photos of the village of Creggs. However, three separate calendar images in particular caught my attention. The first was a poster for the Creggs February Fair of 1922, which was held on Monday, February 13th. The fair in Creggs was always held on the 12th, but that year, presumably because the 12th fell on a Sunday, it was postponed to the Monday. Sheep,

cattle and horses were on offer, and the committee were predicting that it would be a great success, as (in their words) it had been in the years previous. The poster also features a ticket for a dance in Creggs, to be held on Sunday night, February 5th, which features ‘select music’ and is due to start at 9 pm. The funny thing is that tickets for gents were five shillings, but the ladies only had to pay three. Meanwhile, doubles (not couples) are only 7s 6d – a saving of a full six pence. I wonder could a lad just team up with a girl at the front door, just to go in as a double and save threepence each. Seems like good sense to me! An-

other unusual thing about the ticket is that there is no venue mentioned, though I assume it would have been in Brennan’s Ballroom, now the home of the Connelly family. Fast forward then to the August offering, and there is a photo from 1946 of the unveiling of the Parnell Monument. Even though it is raining heavily (judging by the number of umbrellas), the crowd is very large by any standard. The people are ten deep, and you can see several policemen in attendance. Every vantage point, including the top of the signpost, is taken up. A number of the men are wearing hats, but there is also a huge number of flat caps in view, with re-

markably few of the men having no headgear at all. From there I went to October, where I found an image that brought back great memories to me – a poster showing the programme for the first ever Creggs Harvest Festival, way back in 1981. The festival is still going strong to this day – Covid or no Covid – and in that first year, we had no fear. Despite having no money, the Committee (of which I was a member) decided to put up £1,000 as a prize for a Mummers’ Competition. To this day I don’t know how we managed to pull it off, but we managed to pay the £1,000 and the village was thronged all weekend with Irish music coming from every corner of every pub. In my life in Creggs, I don’t think I ever saw such crowds, and it was really delightful to see it all brought to life by the beautiful historical calendar. I know these calendars are on sale at different local outlets, so try and get yourself one. Every month has a different image of times gone by, and while I have my own three favourites, I feel certain you will love some of the other pictures.

Midnight Mass had the X-Factor!

Creggs RFC grounds

Creggs RFC leading the way in Connacht

Talking of big crowds, way back in 1974, when Creggs RFC took it’s very first tentative steps into the not very welcoming arms of Connacht Rugby, not even the most optimistic followers could have foreseen where we would be now. Forty-seven years later, Creggs has, for all intents and purposes, become the centre point of rugby in the province – certainly at underage level – and hardly a day goes by that there isn’t a big schools’ or underage final. On Sunday, we hosted the U-17 league final

between Castlebar/Westport and Ballinasloe, which was won by the Mayo side, and on Tuesday, we had three schools finals, the first one starting at 11 am. Last Wednesday, I attended a cup final between the kings of Connacht GAA, St. Jarlath’s and Athlone Community College. The very presence of the Tuam side in a rugby final shows the enormous strides the game has taken in the province. As it happens, my brother and Peadar’s grandson, Sean, was playing scrum-half for Jarlath’s, and while they came

up slightly short, the game itself was terrific. The young Brandon had a very fine performance, capped by a superb second-half individual try. That’s where the huge financial investment that Creggs have put in comes into play, because as the only 4G pitch in Connacht, the pitch is in perfect, pristine condition all day, every day. No matter what the weather, every match can take place. As I told you before, myself, Vincent Canny, and the late Jim O ‘Rourke were delegates at our very first fixtures meeting as a bona fide club, and only

two established clubs (Athlone and Corinthians) were prepared to offer us friendly fixtures. Our neighbours Dunmore, who were starting off at the same time, were the only club who would give us regular games, and we ended up playing them in a lot of not-sofriendly friendlies. Anyway, as we welcome so many people from so many schools and clubs to Creggs so frequently, it just goes to show that we never know what anything can lead to. Location or size really doesn’t mean a thing!

As we close in on Christmas week, calls have been made to have Midnight Mass brought back to its original time of twelve o’clock, midnight. The whole thing made me think back to my younger days, when Midnight Mass was the best source of entertainment anywhere for any young lad. When the pubs closed at 11.30 pm, many of the customers (some of whom had spent the whole day on the beer) would head for the church to join in the celebrations. Oftentimes the change of venue made little difference to the behaviour or demeanour of some of the participants. Chats were carried on in full voice, just as they had been earlier on while in the pub. On one famous occasion, a local character gave us the complete version of Dermot Hegarty’s big hit, ‘Twenty-One Years’, which was followed immediately by the full unabridged version of ‘Galway Bay’ by a similarly inebriated member of the congregation. And after that, thankfully, we even got the clean version! All this time, Canon Kelly carried on as normal. Even as the lads staggered their way up the aisle for communion, Canon John wasn’t in any way put out, and simply got on with the mass. Sometime later, the time went back to 9 pm, a change that definitely had an effect on the entertainment value. Somehow however, even if it does now go back to midnight, I can never see it getting close to the craic of those bygone days. Anyway, if you do go to the Christmas services this year, I imagine they will be more refined than in our days of ‘TwentyOne Years’ or ‘Galway Bay’. I hope I’m not being irreverent, but it was wonderful, harmless fun.

Finally for this week… As I look back on a year that, for us, had a fair few ups and downs, all I can do is wish everyone out there well. I hope you all have a nice Christmas, stay safe and well, and hopefully 2022 delivers all that you may wish for.

‘Till next year, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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‘Hopes dashed and lives paused’ Lough Funshinagh High Court ruling

< DAN DOONER

Sisters Maria and Emile Clyne pictured with Ailbhe Neilan at Hannon’s Hotel before the start of the recent Santa Hat Walk/Run. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Santa Hat Walk/Run

Roscommon County Council said it “cannot express how disappointed” it was with yesterday’s (Tuesday) High Court ruling which granted Friends of the Irish Environment leave to apply for a judicial review of interim flood relief works at Lough Funshinagh. The High Court also imposed an interim stay on construction works being carried out until January 14th, 2022 when the court will consider submissions from the Council to lift the stay. In a statement to the Roscommon People yesterday evening, the local authority said: “Roscommon County Council cannot express how disappointed we are for the people of Lough Funshinagh who again have had their hopes dashed and their lives

paused by this setback. “Roscommon County Council has done everything in our power to allow people to continue to live in their homes and we are satisfied that works were being progressed in a legal manner”. At Monday’s monthly meeting of the local authority, a number of councillors expressed their deep disappointment after Chief Executive Eugene Cummins confirmed that FIE had issued fresh proceedings against the local authority. Cllr. Laurence Fallon described the works as a “rational solution” and called on FIE to visit the area and see the suffering of residents living there. Cllr. Tony Ward said the move was “devastating” while Cllr. Emer Kelly hoped a reasonable solution could be found.

Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh, however, said Friends of the Irish Environment “should hang their heads in shame” and Independent councillor Donal Kilduff was critical of the timing of the proceedings. Earlier in the week, the Friends of the Irish Environment group said it had “considerable sympathy” for those affected but felt it had no choice but to challenge the interim works. FIE claimed the new works project was essentially the same one which was halted by the High Court last August, with the permanent overflow pipe replaced with “floating pipes and mobile diesel generators”. The group said it was “not prepared to allow a significant precedent to be created which would be a major regression for public participation rights”.

€220,000 IN FUNDING AWARDED TO ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY COLLEGE There was great delight expressed by the staff, students and parents of Roscommon Community College, in the knowledge that every student in their care will benefit significantly from this funding investment.

Ciara Keane and her dog Bear pictured at Hannon’s Hotel for the recent Santa Hat Wak/Run. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Caitriona Hodgins and Sinead Fleming-Harney pictured at Hannon’s Hotel for the recent Santa Hat Walk/Run. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Lisnamult Christmas raffle – the winners! A massive thank you from the Lisnamult Residents and Tenants for your contributions in supporting our 2021 Christmas raffle. Thank you to all who donated prizes and spot prizes, and to all of our winners and participants. Your support is greatly appreciated. Molly Mullen won the first prize (a €500 voucher, sponsored by Fleming’s SuperValu), Gerry Casey won second prize (a €150 voucher, sponsored by Time Pieces), Olivia Kelly was the third-prize winner (a €100 voucher, sponsored by McGuinness’s Pharmacy), Maureen Buckley won fourth prize (a €100 voucher, sponsored by

Liam Stephens of Klassic Cleaners), Barney Hoare won the fifth prize (€100, sponsored by Ivan and Martin Connaughton), Gavin Stanton won the sixth prize (€100, sponsored by John Gaynor), Michael Nevin won the seventh prize (a €100 voucher, sponsored by Gleeson’s), and Eamon Rogers won the eighth prize (€100, sponsored by Lisnamult Tenants and Residents). Bride Glennon won the first spot prize (sponsored by Ward’s), Fiona Lynch won the second spot prize (sponsored by Horan’s Restaurant), V. Kelly won the third spot prize (sponsored by The Peppermill), Oisin Naughton

won the fourth spot prize (sponsored by McNulty’s Furniture), Chloe Farrell won the fifth spot prize (sponsored by Lynch Flooring), James Hoare won the sixth spot prize (sponsored by Corrib Oil), Kathleen Carr won the seventh spot prize (sponsored by Tommy Kelly), Niamh Molloy won the eighth spot prize (sponsored by Gannon’s Furniture), Rachel Gordon won the ninth spot prize (sponsored by B. Poland), Alex, Ali Mae and Zara Doolan won the tenth spot prize (sponsored by Greenfields Childcare), and Alan Collins won the eleventh spot prize (sponsored by Sean Doyle Windows).

School Open Day Saturday, 9th November 2019

The funding received is broken down into 4 categories: • €80,000 – Engineering Dept. for the updating of current facilities and purchase of new equipment. • €70,000 – Construction Dept. for the updating of current facilities and purchase of new equipment. • €25,000 – Health and Safety. Upgrading of current infrastructure. • €45,000 – Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Updating and purchase of new equipment.

10 am – 2 pm Principal’s Address 12 pm

Ms Keena, Principal, outlined the importance of this funding in promoting student engagement and the advancement of teaching and learning within the field of Engineering, Construction and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Furthermore, she expanded on the significance of the funding received in the area of Health and Safety to ensure the promotion of standards in safety, health and welfare that comply with current government guidelines. Ms. Keena would like to take this opportunity to thank her staff, students and their parents for their hard work and dedication to RCC over the past year Contact: Ms Happy Georgina Keena, and wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and and Healthy New Year.

Principal on 090 6626670

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year. From all the StudentsThe andApplication Staff of Form can be downloaded Roscommon Community College.

from our website on

School reopens on www.roscomcol.com Thursday, 6th January 2021. Looking forward to meeting our incoming 1st Years and their parents and guardians on Saturday, 22nd January 2022 between 10pm and 2pm.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Let’s focus on all the possibilities a post-Covid 2022 has to offer Covid cases are spiking, and, due to grave concerns directly relating to the threat posed by this Omicron variant, tighter rules restricting our social lives have now been imposed by the Government. Bah humbug! Chaos, heartbreak, despair…congratulations Covid, I’d say your work here is finally done! In place since Monday, these restrictions, which will see bars and restaurants placed under an 8 pm curfew until the end of January, have served to deliver a massive kick in the gut to everyone who works, or who has now possibly lost, their living within the hospitality sector. My heart goes out to you all. Like everyone, I was looking forward to having a fun, fabulous, good old-fashioned family Christmas with

my loved ones, and, while my intentions were never to ‘go on the lash’, this 8 pm curfew (which I haven’t been under since I was 10-years-old), has certainly scuttled those plans. Indeed, given the Taoiseach’s stark warnings, it’s fair to say that this week, it’s going to be very hard for everyone to imagine a more sober run-up to what should have been our most wonderful time of the year! Personally, I’m so bored, I’m considering leaving a pile of Booker prize-winning novels beside the bed so that, in the event of me actually dying from a complete lack of social interaction, I’ll at least look intelligent when someone finally finds me! On the bright side, (and there is one), despite these tight restrictions this variant brings, the health situation,

It’s the most woeful telly of the year!

When it comes to ratings, Christmas TV listings have more or less become something of an ‘arms race’, with festive viewing figures being reported as news headlines. And rightly so! Licence-payers not only expect, rather they deserve to have their attention diverted away from concerns about all things relating to this pandemic! However, if RTÉ believes rolling out Tommy Tiernan, the saccharine-sweet Daniel O’Donnell, Mrs. Brown’s Boys, the 2 Johnnies and, (quick, pass me the puke bucket), the abysmal duo that is Dermot Whelan and Doireann Garrihy is going to provide me with distraction and escapism, they’re seriously mistaken! In fact, our national broadcaster could not have got it more wrong, and it leads me to wonder what kind of amadáns they’re taking us for? The only saving grace is the hilarious Oliver Callan. Following what has been a massively underwhelming year, I would have thought that our national broadcaster would have at least attempted to pull their socks up! Oh no…true to form, and, in my opinion laziness, RTÉ has managed to turn the most wonderful time of the year into the most woeful telly of the year. It’s going to take me a long time to forgive them for thinking they could tease me away from Netflix with shows entitled Mammy’s Mechanical Merriment and Mammy’s Mickey. I feel a sarcastic and very crude comment coming on here but I don’t wish to shock our poor editor!

I ho-ho-hope you have a wonderful Christmas I feel incredibly blessed to be able to bring you this column; thank you so much for putting up with me and for reading my ‘musings’ each week. While I know these past two years have been incredibly tough on all of us, I hope and pray that this Christmas brings each and every one of us happiness, health, joy, and an abundance of hope for a safer, pandemic-free 2022. We all deserve it.

(due to many being vaccinated), is arguably better than it was last Christmas. Then again, when you imagine that most families will once more be forced to spend the majority of this festive season huddled together in the same confined space, locked into a routine of avoiding everyone outside of their ‘social bubble’, I’m worried that something, somewhere might finally give! I’m willing to bet, fellow inmates, that, right now, on top of us all suffering from extreme pandemic fatigue, we’re also experiencing feelings of loss directly relating to this substantial reduction of our freedoms. To that end, as celebrating yet another muted Christmas is bound to add significant pressure to an already stressed situation – with this latest turn of events

causing our happiness levels to fall, and our stress levels to rise – may I suggest readers might try the following: When you hear people saying it’s a ‘difficult time’, try to focus on the fact that this is exactly what it is…a time…and it will pass. Try to remember all that’s good in your life; and, no matter how big or small, (and, in order to keep yourself focused in a positive direction), write them down and stick it on the fridge with a festive magnet! Try to understand that, despite this enormous emotional struggle, we are all in this together…well those of us who’re sticking to the rules are. If you find yourself going into a global meltdown, take a few deep breaths, look back on the past two years and

congratulate yourself for the way in which you’ve managed to approach and handle all that has been thrown at you. I suggest, if you can, go out and buy yourself a little gift; something you’d love to receive from somebody else. When we’re clear of this pandemic, and we will be, there’ll be a whole lot of living for us all to catch up on. While we may currently be in mourning for our pre-pandemic Christmases, I suggest that rather than consuming ourselves with fear, dread, anxiety and anger, instead, why not decide to keep our focus on the New Year and all of the wonderful possibilities that a post-Covid 2022 has to offer. Nollaig shona daoibh go léir, go mbeannaí daoibh.

Ann-Marie Dennigan, Anthony Scally, Sadhbh Scally and Laura Fannon pictured at Hannon’s Hotel for the Santa Hat Charity Race. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Downloading free Emcall App could save your life! While this newspaper is always chock-full of entertaining and informative items, I have to say a piece – carried on Page 17 of last week’s edition – provided what I believe to be something of vital importance. Why? Because it gave readers an opportunity to download a free App called EmCall which, when activated, can help users get

vital life-saving information and help, should they need it. I would urge all readers, if they can, to download this nifty and totally free App, because, given the times we’re living in and the stresses being placed on both ourselves and our emergency services, having something like this, literally to hand, is not just sensible, it’s vi-

tal. Myself and himself have both downloaded EmCall, and I can tell you the entire process literally took 30 seconds of our time. That’s 30 seconds that could help to save your life! Well done, and thank you to everyone involved in both providing and supporting this community initiative.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

FLYNN ROBERT ROBERT FLYNN

THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: THETHE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: 094 9620028 SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: 094 094 9620028 9620028 Offer you again again the best value town Offer you again the bestthe value in town this in Christmas Offer you best value in town this this Christmas Christmas

Lough Ree RNLI on call this Christmas Lough Ree RNLI crew pictured during recent training exercise in Athlone.

At a time when business and contact hours are at the heart of the national conversation Lough Ree RNLI is reminding everyone to take due care on the water over the holiday period but the charity and its volunteer crew remain on call 24/7 throughout Christmas and the New Year. With 46 call-outs so far this year, 2021 has been another busy year for the volunteer crew at Lough Ree RNLI. The charity came to the assistance of over 150 people who had experienced difficulty of some kind on the lake or River Shannon this year. To remain always in readiness the volunteers have continued with weekly ‘on the water training’ on board the charity’s lifeboat the ‘Tara Scougall’. Coupled with this were a number of multi-agency training and

familiarisation sessions with other life-saving partners on the water. While the holiday period is traditionally busy one on the lake for both boats and swimmers Lough Ree RNLI Press Officer Tom McGuire said: “All who use the lake at this time need to be aware of the colder water temperatures and the higher water level which may obscure obstacles that are normally fully visible. “In the event of anyone getting into difficulty a call should be made to the emergency services on 112 or 999 at the earliest opportunity. As always Lough Ree RNLI remains on call at all times, for some new crew members it will be a first Christmas on call”. On land, the new lifeboat station is nearing completion on the shores

Local Vaccination Centre moves to Golf Links Road

The first vaccination clinic took place at its new location on the Golf Links Road, Roscommon town on Friday last. The following walk-in clinics are taking place in the Roscommon Vaccination Centre this week for anyone aged 40 and over who is eligible for a booster vaccine. There is no appointment needed: Wednesday, December 22nd from 2.30 pm to 7.30 pm; Thursday, December 23rd from 2.30 pm to 7.30 pm; Friday, December 24th from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm. In a statement to the Roscommon People this week, the Saolta University Health Care Group said: “To be eligible for a booster vaccine, you must have reached the interval of at least 90 days since your second dose vaccine or single dose Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine before coming to a walk-in clinic. “Anyone who has had Covid-19 since their previous vaccination should wait to get their booster dose at least six months

of Lough Ree at Coosan Point, Athlone. All of the crew had an opportunity to walk through the facility last week and Lough Ree RNLI hopes to move into the boathouse early in the New Year. A fundraising campaign has been ongoing throughout the year to raise a local community contribution of €100,000 towards the €1.2 million project. This has been very successful and the target is well within reach after many great contributions, both big and small throughout the year. In the ‘season of giving’ Lough Ree RNLI hopes to reach its target very soon. The station has a local bank account where all donations, large or small, are welcome: Loughree RNLI Boathouse Appeal – BIC:AIBKIE2D

after the positive test result. “Updated information on queue times available from the HSE Twitter feed @ HSELive. The vaccination centre will be closed on December 25th and 26th and will reopen on December 27th. Details next week’s clinics will be available from hse.ie later this week. “The vaccination centre is also running scheduled appointment clinics and anyone who receives an invitation by text is asked to come to the appointment if possible or reply to the text message to reschedule. There is a separate queue for people with scheduled appointments and this queue is prioritised. “People who are aged 40 and older who are eligible for a booster dose and have reached the interval of 90 days since their second dose may also get their booster vaccine by booking an appointment with a participating pharmacy. The details of participating pharmacies are available on hse.ie”.

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Christmas wreaths available. Centre Tickets (Violins) Half,Tubes, Quarterprices. & Full size.kits in tyres, pumps and repair Fresh Duck and Hen Farm Eggs RecyclingBicycle free watches atThree reasonable Fiddles HIGH GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, 25kg Gritting Salt for children. Full selection of Blue Ideal present Also Bluestone for soot in ranges FROM and chimneys Lotto store. Adult bicycle €250. (Violins) Half, Threesalts Quarter & Full size. TABLE LAMPS AND LANTERNS €12.99 25kg Granular Willow Salt for Delph. Dishwashers HIGH GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, Epsom for feet or baths Now in stock 25kg Cube Ideal Salt forpresent Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, Stamps, for children. Full selection of Coal, Blue per lb, Briquettes, Firelogs (4 foror€5), TABLEColour LAMPS AND LANTERNS FROM €12.99 and €1.99 IronWillow Cast Frypans Photocopying ServiceTREES Delph. Epsom salts for feet baths CHRISTMAS SOME UNWELCOME Bicycle Tyres, Tubes, Pumps & Repair Kits in-store Watch Batteries, Watch Straps and Shotguns, Rifles and Air Rifles In Stock €1.99 per lb, Briquettes, Firelogs (4 for €5), Coal, LOTTO Car Key Batteries Replaced Freshly cut, allTREES sizes. CHRISTMAS Shot Gun Cartridges, Bullets - Eley, CHRISTMAS Tubes, PumpsVISITORS? & Repair Kits in-store SOME UNWELCOME RemmingtonBicycle - all top Tyres, brands stocked. 25%FRESH OFF ALL Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, HOLLY AND CHRISTMAS Rats and mice; try our one dose bait. Freshly cut, all sizes. Cartridge Belts, Decoys, Cleaning Kits Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, CHRISTMAS VISITORS? SOME UNWELCOME Stationery: Laminating, fax, stamps, colour Rat traps, mouse traps, mink traps, purse nets, WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO FlysFRESH - Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon HOLLY AND CHRISTMAS Inland Fisheries Ireland Available RatsPermits and mice - try our one dose bait photocopying service. Watch CHRISTMAS VISITORS? GooseTraps. grease, sulphur KEY CUTTING SERVICE - INbatteries Firearms Dealer BLUESTONE FOR SOOT RANGES LicencedRat Traps, Mouse Mink Traps, Purse WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO watch straps and car keyKEYS batteries replaced RatsNets, and mice - try our one dose bait No Longer Want To Licence Your Firearm? HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER Recycling Centre Tickets Goose Grease, Sulpher AND CHIMNEYS NOW IN RANGES STOCK BLUESTONE SOOT IN Traps, Traps. Mink Traps, Purse We fly Can Store It OrRat Destroy It ForMouse A Small Fee Fishing tackle,FOR pike rods, spinning rods, MORTICE, CAR ETC. 25kg gritting salt, Recycling Centre Tickets Nets,14th Goose Grease, Sulpher See our selection of House AND CHIMNEYS INselection STOCKinAll prices valid until December Rods, reels, spinners, flysNOW –Safes largest 25kg granular salt forSalt dishwashers 25kg Gritting Recycling Centre Tickets County Roscommon. 25kg Granular Salt Dishwashers 25kg cube salt forfor water 25kg Gritting Saltsofteners 25kg Cube Salt for Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, Stamps, KEY CUTTING SERVICE – house keys, locker Iron cast frying pans 25kg Granular Salt for Dishwashers May we thank you our Customers and Iron Cast Frypans Colour Photocopying Service Keys, mortice, car etc. 25kg Cuberifles Saltand for Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, Stamps, Shotguns, rifles in Watch Watch Straps Shotguns, Rifles Airair Rifles In stock. Stock and Ironand Cast Frypans See Batteries, ourfor selection ofbusiness house safes.and your during the year Colour Photocopying Service Shotgun cartridges, Car Key Batteries Replaced Shot Gun Cartridges, Bullets - Eley, Watch Batteries, Watch Straps and Shotguns, Rifles and Air Rifles In Stock See the best selection in town of Christmas Bullets – Eley, Remmington Remmington - all top brands stocked. wish you a ofHappy and Holy Christmas 25%and OFF we ALL Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, Key Batteries Replaced Shot Gun Cartridges, - Eley, cakes,Car plum puddings, boxes chocolates, –Belts, all topDecoys, brandsBullets stocks. Cartridge Cleaning Kits Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, Remmington all top brands stocked. 25% ALLChristmas Fishing lights, Tackle, Pike Rods, tins of- OFF biscuits, fibre optic trees, Cartridge belts,Ireland decoysPermits and cleaning kits Flys Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon Inland Fisheries Available Cartridge Belts, Decoys, Cleaning Kits Spinning long Rods, Rods, Reels, redFly Christmas candles.Spinners, InlandLicenced FisheriesFirearms Ireland Permits KEY CUTTING SERVICE Dealeravailable Flys Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Available PETS - See ourKEYS, selectionLOCKER of rabbit hutches, bird Dealer No LongerLicenced Want To Firearms Licence Your Firearm? HOUSE KEYS CUTTING SERVICE - dog Licenced Firearms Dealer cages,KEY aquariums, dog collars, dog leads, No longer to licence your We Can Store Itwant Or Destroy It For A firearm? Small Fee MORTICE, CAR ETC. No Longer Want To Licence Your Firearm? HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER cushions, dog fleaHouse collars.KEYS We can store See our selection of Safes AllStore pricesItvalid until December 14th We Can Or Destroy It For A Small Fee Pony and horse head collars. it or destroy it for a small fee. MORTICE, CAR ETC. Wormers and selection flea treatments for catsSafes and dogs. See our of House All prices valid until December 14th

Lotto Lotto

May we thank you our Customers May we thank youduring our Customers for your business the year your the year and wefor wish youbusiness a Happyduring and Holy Christmas and we wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas

Pictured are Roscommon Vaccination Centre staff, from left: Teresa Talbot, Administration Lead; Ronán O’Cathasaigh, Saolta Regional Vaccination Programme; Siobhan Carthy, Clinical Lead; and Caroline Mahon Webb, Clinical Lead. Information on walk-in clinic times is available from hse.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Plans for new surf park would transform Roscommon tourism I have been writing here for the last three weeks about the Government’s Just Transition Fund and the tens of thousands of euro now being distributed for a plethora of different plans, feasibility studies on future economic developments for the area and a handful of pretty much immediate job creation projects on the Roscommon-Longford-Westmeath borders. Some of the projects announced last year included an exciting new plan for a Bord na Mona transport museum in Cloontuskert, €1 million for the Lanesboro Food Hub and €1 million for the second phase of the Lough Ree Distillery in Lanesborough, as well as €977,500 for the Ballyforan Greenway Loop down beside the old Shannonbridge power station. By far and away the most innovative of all the proposals on the table at the moment has to be the one advertised on the eTenders website in the last month or so by way of an application for people to tender to carry out a major feasibility study on what is being loosely called ‘a giant wave park’ for the Shannonside town. This is a hugely exciting project and one that really deserves serious consideration. Longford County Council is actually seeking tenders to enable the appointment of a lead consultant and multi-disciplinary team to undertake a 3-phase design study to explore the potential of developing Ireland’s first artificial surf wave centre powered by renewable energy in the vicinity of Lanesborough. The model for this spectacular idea is based on a very successful project already running at Snowdonia in Wales and it’s a 5-star tourism project of world tourism attraction status. Adventure Parc Snowdonia is actually the world-first inland surf lagoon and the only guaranteed surf break in the UK. It’s set against a backdrop of the beautiful forests and mountains of Snowdonia, and the very clever technology used delivers a variety of wave profiles, so absolute beginners can surf safely alongside the professionals. The expert surf tuition available, and reliable waves make this the ideal, family-friendly training arena and it’s already attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to a part of north Wales that really needed it – after the demise of the coal mining operations in that general region. Are you beginning to see the obvious connection here? Longford County Council has secured the funding under the Just Transition process for to carry out the feasibility study, business case and potential operator engagement advertised on eTenders for what they are hoping will be Ireland’s first artificial surf wave centre – even if the project is fraught with possible difficulties. The intention is for the centre to be a sustainable visitor attraction, powered by renewable energy, and contributing to the local and regional economy by way of hundreds of thousands of people of all ages visiting all year around – even when there is not as much of a smell of a wave for surfing let along a decent spray to be seen in places like Strandhill and Lahinch.

The technology behind the project is very efficient too. A wavefoil, which resembles a snowplough, shuttles back and forth along a central underwater track that runs the length of the base of the 300m lagoon in the park. As the machinery moves back and forth, it will generate a huge barrelling wave on each side of the track. Try and picture it for yourself – the water being shovelled like snow up and down the full length of a football pitch, thereby creating some serious surfing conditions on the top, and all the time, controllable in scale. The eTender published by Longford County Council last month is verging on the ‘therapeutic’ in its approach to selling the idea: “The concerns over safety allied to a desire for health and wellness means more visitors are seeking to engage with the outdoors. LanesboroughBallyleague is well placed to build on this as an opportunity with recent and planned investment in green and blue infrastructure and the proximity of the River Shannon, Lough Ree and the wider Mount Dillon Bog complex”. The tender writer really wants us to believe this is the future for outdoor recreation and who are we to disagree? “While Center Parcs appeals mainly to families, a surf centre would have the potential to appeal to older teenagers and younger, unconstrained adults”, the tender states (put me down there as an ‘unconstrained adult please!). “These also have the tendency to be in-

terested in conservation, sustainability and green issues. Development of Ireland’s first artificial surf wave centre powered by renewable energy would be a highly innovative and contextualise it within a rewilding, sustainable biosphere and, of course, examples of similar attractions that have leveraged the local natural environment and provided innovative and fresh thinking include Adventure Parc, Snowdonia in North Wales and The Wave near Bristol”. It all makes for really exciting reading and, if it can be pulled off, I am sure it would indeed change the face of the Shannonside towns of Ballyleague and Lanesborough, but what are the obstacles to be overcome – and where are they starting with the project? It is going to fall to the successful tenderer for this study to not only carry out focussed research and a scoping exercise on the potential for to develop Ireland’s first artificial surf wave centre powered by renewable energy but then go and help identify the factors associated with success and failures encountered in similar projects developed internationally. The feasibility will have to address the market, financial and operational feasibility of the surf wave centre and then go and identify three potential sites and consider the suitability of each in terms of access, environment and against several key characteristics. This is undoubtedly probably going to be the toughest element of the work. I know there is a

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

clear focus on renewable energy in the stated brief when it comes to powering the new park but, doing it all in a eco-friendly style will be challenging and in an area that already enjoys special status as a region of environmental importance when it comes to flora and fauna. As if the job was not tough enough, the winning contractor will also be tasked with identifying and engaging with several potential operators of the new proposed park and putting a plan in place for its successful construction and operation. Paying for the new project will also be a challenge. It is clearly envisaged that the capital cost of putting this incredible facility in place with its renewable energy source could be sourced from the new European Commission Just Transition Fund, with the second part coming down the line in the next ten years with matching funds required – and lots of them too. Depending on the scale of the park, it could cost anything up thirty million euro to build, but please don’t let put you off. Its return in tourism terms is also staggering, and has the potential to turn a very barren wasteland into an eco-friendly fabulous place to live and work. And if you still don’t believe it’s possible – then just take a look at the Centre Parcs model and see what they have already done on a similar, if not larger, investment scale! Last but by no means least in my trawl through the Just Transition Fund projects is the Lough Ree Distillery Phase 2 project put up by Blacksmith Ventures Limited – otherwise known as the Clancy family in Lanesborough. These are hard-working local people who know their whiskeys and gins, and they have already said that they hope to be able to break ground on the new distillery and visitors centre soon, thanks to JTF funding of up to one million euro. Lough Ree Distillery began producing their first drink in October of 2018 and has made a good success of their product lines to date. This new distillery will give their hometown the boost it so badly needs, with the visitor centre attraction boosting local spending. We all are looking forward to seeing the bulldozers on site shortly to get the fabulous new distillery and visitor centre underway. When you add Lough Ree Destillery to the newly extended Strokestown Park House, the bigger and better Lough Ree Access For All passenger boat (mark two), the Corlea bog road visitor centre, the mighty new wilderness park, and the incredible surf park project, you begin to see the scale of what really is possible by way of economic regeneration in this region. Everybody knows it could take decades of course, and some of these projects will never see the light of day, but we all must start somewhere. Here’s hoping the best of these JTF projects will stand up, achieve investor support, and help create lots of jobs in the years to come.

WRITE TO CIARAN!

Email People Columnist Ciaran at:

ciaranmullooly@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

Appointments

Rosie and Geraldine Macken pictured with dog Pippa at a Christmas Craft Fair in Ballymoe Community Centre recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Waldron calls on Rossies to make a connection! Independent Cllr. Tony Waldron has called on the people of Roscommon to stand together ahead of the New Year and make a connection with loved ones who are part of the Irish diaspora. Cllr. Waldron said: “Roscommon might be considered a small county but it is one that has very big ideas and a very bright future. “Let’s all stand together this Christmas and into the New Year and work with Rossies

all over the world to make sure 2022 is a brighter year for us all. “Make that phone call to loved ones and friends who can’t make it home this Christmas. Connecting with each other can make a real difference and bring Roscommon closer to other parts of the world. “I’d like to wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas and let’s hope for a brighter New Year for all Roscommon people, both at home and abroad”.

Rowan Engineering – The Forensic and Environmental Engineering Experts As our business continues to grow in the West of Ireland, we are seeking to recruit excellent people to join our team.

neering – The Forensic and Environment We currently have vacancies in our office in

our clients and colleagues a safe, happy, for a Independent Cllr. Tony Waldron

A message from Cllr Anthony Waldron

When you’re at home in Roscommon this Christmas… …think of how you can help…

Tuam, Co Galway

Forensic Engineer

ness continues to grow in the West of Ire Environmental Consultant ople to join our team. and an

SAVE & PROTECT jobs here… and help create more jobs

If you believe you have what it takes to join the Rowan team please send your cv to:

info@rec.ie y have vacancies in our office in Tua For further information on these positions and on our growing business d an Environmental Consultant. please see our website Hundreds of Roscommon people will be returning to Roscommon from different parts of Ireland – and abroad – over the festive season

I am urging these Roscommon people to consider the timely Christmas and New Year gift they can give their county when they are back home Are you purchasing a property or land abroad?

• If so, why not engage the services of a solicitor/auctioneer/ insurance broker in Roscommon?

• Support local fundraising lotteries during your seasonal stay • Consider making purchases locally before you leave Roscommon to return home

www.rec.ie/recruitment

Wewishallto ourclients andcolleagues e you have what it takes join the Row Tel. 086 786 6774 a safe, happy, and prosperous 2022. A warm welcome and Happy Christmas to all returning Rossies

Contact: Anthony

Email: anthonywaldron@gmail.com

TAKE A BREAK

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

NewsPeople

Cuddys finish fourth in ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’ < DAN DOONER

The Cuddy family’s Ireland’s Fittest Family adventure came to an end last Sunday as they finished a very impressive fourth overall in RTÉ’s hit TV series. The Kinsella family from Wexford claimed this year’s Fittest Family title, but for the Cuddys it was an experience that will live long in the memory. Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Lisa Cuddy said her mum Bernie, brother James and sister Emma were overwhelmed by the support they have received from the people of Roscommon throughout the series. “Watching the final last weekend was a bit emotional for us but it was super too. We’re sad that’s gone now Cuddy swaps jerseys with David Kinsella, because it’s just been such a lovely experience – the James whose family were the overall winners of RTÉ’s buzz was so nice and we’ll miss it,” Lisa said. Ireland’s Fittest Family last Sunday. “We finished fourth overall which was amazing. There was really nothing between third and fourth or recommend it…it was something else, an unbelievsecond and first; it was really close between ourselves able experience that’s hard to put into words. We didn’t get much choice thanks to James! But those and three amazing families. “We got to know those other families so well and we considering it next year should go for it. It’s a very became quite close…there’s a bit of a reunion planned cool thing to do with your family as well”. On behalf of the Cuddys, Lisa once again thanked in the New Year”. local businesses who assisted the family in preparThe Cuddys’ popularity also extended off-screen. “We had the best time doing it and we got to know ing for Ireland’s Fittest Families. “Again, we’d just like to say a big thank you to all the crew members, the coaches and all the other the Mullally brothers at Roscommon Tyre Centre, families over the few weeks,” Lisa added. “It also brought us closer, for sure. We worked really Vincent Collins, Cathal Dineen in Fullbody Workwell together and really enjoyed the training…it’s one house, George at Baysports and Joan Moore’s Therapy Rooms. We also really appreciate the huge of the best things I’ve ever done!” Encouraging other active Roscommon families to support we have received from people across Roapply for next year’s show, Lisa said: “I’d definitely scommon and further afield,” she concluded.

The Cuddy family from Roscommon finished fourth overall in this year’s Ireland’s Fittest Family.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

Ralph Fiennes (English actor, producer, and director, turns 59 on Wednesday)

Finn Wolfhard (Canadian actor, musician, screenwriter, and director, celebrates 19th on Thursday)

Meghan Trainor (American singersongwriter, will be 28 on Wednesday)

1951 All-Ireland winners mark 70th anniversary

Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll was delighted to recently meet up with five members of the Roscommon minor team which won the All-Ireland title in 1951. Michael Kelly, Barry Molloy, Fr. Dominic Gillooly, Harry Connolly and Frank McKevitt enjoyed lunch at the Abbey Hotel on Thursday last (16th), 70 years on from their famous win over Armagh at Croke Park. Michael Shivnan, Fr. Pat Muldoon and John Rafferty were unfortunately unable to attend on the day. Picture courtesy of Brian Carroll.

It’s been a GOOD week for… Louis Tomlinson (English singersongwriter, turns 30 on Friday)

For updates, check our social channels

duo playing some sparkling golf in the PNC Championship, the significance of which was that this fun event represented Tiger’s return to competitive golf after a life-threatening car crash earlier this year

It’s been a BAD week for…

Horse racing superstar Rachael Blackmore, who won both the BBC World Sport Star of the Year award and the RTE Sportsperson of the Year award at the weekend

The hospitality industry (yet again), with bars, restaurants and cafes instructed to close at 8 pm as part of new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the Omicron variant

The Kinsella family, who won the popular RTE show Ireland’s Fittest Family...and a shout out here too for Roscommon family ‘The Cuddys’ who reached the final after an excellent run in the series (see report in this issue)

People involved in pantos, theatre, etc., many of whom have seen events cancelled in the run-up to Christmas, this latest blow to their industry arising due to new restrictions

Tiger Woods (and his son Charlie), the father-and-son

Tiger Woods and his son Charlie

Roscommon ladies’ footballers, whose hopes of intermediate provincial success were

dashed when they lost a thriller to Leitrim, the latter deservedly taking the Connacht crown

Bad week for pantos in Ireland

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Kerrane: ‘Time to throw kitchen sink at mitigation measures in schools’ Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has called on Minister for Education Norma Foley to use the Christmas break to ensure children are returning to school buildings in January with all mitigation measures necessary to keep schools open and functioning well. Deputy Kerrane said: “Keeping schools open and functioning well is vital. Now is our chance over the Christmas break, to get this right, to make sure that children are returning to school buildings in January with all of the mitigation measures necessary to allow schools to reopen and stay open. “We need to be throwing the kitchen sink at this, and this hasn’t been the approach from Government so far”. She added: “Putting HEPA filters in competition with other desperately needed projects within a school is wrong, particularly so when school budgets are already overstretched with additional heating costs, and children are freezing in their classrooms with the windows open”.

Pictured at the recent Christmas Market in Strokestown. Pics: Mick McCormack

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane

Deputy Kerrane was also critical of what she called “scientific jargon” which added to the workload of principals. “The least the Department could have done was provide access to expert advice and support for principals – stating in plain English what they need to buy and where they can buy it,” she said, and called on HEPA filtration to be centrally procured and distributed by need. Kerrane also said that contact tracing should be led by public health and that schools and wider so-

ciety were now paying for its withdrawal. “When schools ring the HSE, they can’t get them, they can’t get a call back. The new plan for antigen testing passed the buck for contact tracing entirely onto principals and parents,” she added. “The Government cannot continue on the basis that schools are immune, but instead acknowledge that Covid can enter schools, acknowledge that schools are incredibly important, and do everything in their power over this Christmas break to mitigate this”.

‘Join Our Boys’ family overwhelmed by support for Archie, George and Isaac Roscommon mum Paula Naughton and her husband Padraic have issued a heartfelt thank you for the overwhelming public and business support to build a purpose-built home for their three beautiful and courageous sons, Archie, George, and Isaac.       In 2012, Archie was six and the twins George and Isaac were two and a half when all three boys were diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).       DMD is a catastrophic muscle wasting disease which will eventually impact on the boys’ ability to walk, use their limbs, or even hug the people they love. Those who live until their late teens are likely to become totally paralysed and will eventually die of respiratory and/ or heart failure. Archie, George, and Isaac are all now paralysed and in wheelchairs and are now struggling to use their arms.

The Join Our Boys Trust was set up in 2014 following a conversation with a consultant in Temple Street Children’s Hospital who advised the family to “go home and love their children”.       The aim of the trust is twofold: To design and build a purpose-built house that will accommodate Archie, George, and Isaac for as long as they require it; To fund research into finding a cure for DMD disease.       Since being established, enough money has been raised to build the house, which is in Roscommon town. However, an additional €300,000 is required to ensure the house is fully kitted out with the equipment needed to ensure the boys’ complex needs are adequately met. This includes a ceiling hoist, automated doors, specialised beds, a therapy area, specialist IT equipment, specialist toilets, landscaping, an access road, and many

other things. The family also needs to fund the ongoing running costs of the property.       On December 6th, the Join Our Boys Trust launched one of its biggest fundraising campaigns to date. On what is traditionally the largest Christmas shopping day of the year, December 8th, the trust appealed to the public, employers, and businesses all over Ireland to join together to help raise €300,000 to get the family into their home for Christmas.       The campaign has so far captured the nation and the Irish diaspora aboard and the ‘Christmas Present’ campaign has received multiple personal and business donations. There have been numerous raffles, a New York 12 days of Christmas pub crawl, stickmen for schools, Christmas lights and many other fundraising initiatives in the past couple of weeks.

George, Archie and Isaac Naughton pictured with Santa Claus recently.

Paula has conducted numerous radio and media interviews and appreciates the continued support of all. The family feels there is finally an end in

sight and they will very soon be in their purposebuilt house. They are asking for your support this Christmas Week whether by sharing their story, a

small donation, buying a Christmas star or even a pre-recorded Christmas message from Santa himself for your little one.       Everyone can help Ar-

chie, George, and Isaac and their Mum and Dad get into their home by Christmas by donating at https://joinourboys.org/ donate/.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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ICMSA: Farm input price inflation ‘completely eroding’ Commenting on the CSO Agricultural Price Indices for October, published last week, the President of ICMSA, Pat McCormack said that it’s clear that the time for action from our politicians at national and EU level has come and immediate measures must be put in place to address the unprecedented increases in input costs. Mr. McCormack said that the output price index increasing by

Short-horn heifer sells for €2,750 Joe Rafferty, Kilteevan, pictured with his pedigree shorthorn in-calf heifer which was the second-prize winner at the recent Premier Show and Sale in Roscommon. The heifer was sold to a Longford breeder for €2,750.

Castlerea MART WATCH 500 cattle presented for sale for our last sale of 2021 and trade and prices were maintained with a good clearance taking place as customers were anxious to source stock before the end of the year. The heifer ring reported a brisk trade this week with prices peaking at €2.90 a kilo. The bullock ring reported a similar tone with the stores peaking at €2.79 a kilo and heavier lots making up to €1,820. The weanling rings reported a good clearance also with demand for quality lots remaining strong while the dry cow trade saw prices reach €1,810 and breeding stock peaked at €2,020. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,030 to €1,530 per head. Springers made from €890 to €2,020. Runners made from €280 to €810 for continental lots. Castlerea Mart would like to wish all its customers a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous and Safe 2022. Castlerea Mart will resume trading on January 13th for bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. In the meantime, God Bless and keep safe. Sample prices for bullocks: Lm 455kgs €1270, Lm 465kgs €1220, Ch 505kgs €1330, Ch 585kgs €1450, Lm 570kgs €1400, Lm 605kgs €1430, Lm 720kgs €1800, Ch 680kgs €1650. Heifers: Ch 425kgs €1230, Lm 370kgs €1050, BB 380kgs €1010, Lm 440kgs €1280, BB 460kgs €1260, Lm 450kgs €1160, Ch 560kgs €1590, Ch 505kgs €1400, Ch 550kgs €1470. Dry cows: Sim 785kgs €1810, Lm 790kgs €1770, AA 755kgs €1750, AAx 475kgs €860, Lm 670kgs €1540, Lm 690kgs €1430, Ch 710kgs €1670, Fr 755kgs €1370. Weanling bulls: Ch 275kgs €880, Lm 260kgs €800, AAX 245kgs €790, Ch 470kgs €1280, Ch 445kgs €1160, Lm 390kgs €1150, Ch 380kgs €1000. Weaning heifers: Lm 295kgs €900, Ch 245kgs €850, Lm 270kgs €850, Lm 265kgs €830, BBx 215kgs €830, Lm 335kgs €1000, Ch 340kgs €970, Lm 375kgs €920, Ch 330kgs €970.

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14.1 per cent from October 2020 to October 2021 would normally be a good news story, but the input price index increase of 15.7 per cent had actually ensured that farmers were worse off. He added that the prices were already in the pipeline and described as “astronomic” some of the increases with some fertiliser prices up 64.5 per cent, energy prices up 29.7 per cent and feed prices up to

18.5 per cent. Mr. McCormack said that ICMSA believes that the actual increases in prices could well be higher than even these figures. “It’s very obvious that these input price hikes are unsustainable and will require the immediate attention of our national and EU politicians,” he said. “They need to examine the options available either to imme-

diately decrease input prices to realistic levels, raise output prices to compensate for input cost increases, or else provide support through direct support or the taxation system”. The ICMSA President said it was already looking like 2022 will be defined by soaring input prices and policymakers at national and EU will have to simply step up with measures to address the issue.

Have you tested your silage yet? < BY CIARAN BEATTY, TEAGASC DRYSTOCK ADVISOR, CASTLEREA

Grass silage is the dominant winter feed used on the vast majority of Irish farms today. It represents a large cost on farms in terms of growing, ensiling and feeding. Silage quality is key to good animal performance and reducing winter feed costs during the housing period. A silage sample is an excellent starting point in planning winter feeding and also determining what level of concentrate supplementation is needed.

What can you results tell you?

An ideal silage result will have the following; Dry Matter 25 per cent, Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD)- 70 per cent+, PH- 3.8 – 4.2, Crude Protein- 15 per cent, and Metabolisable Energy (ME)- >11.0 MJ KG DM. Dry Matter Intake will be higher on high dry matter silages. The higher the dry matter, the more protein and energy the animal will receive thus improving performance. It is vital to make your silage during dry weather conditions. Dry Matter Digestibility The dry matter digestibility is a measure of forage feeding value. Young perennial ryegrass swards cut for silage after six weeks of growth should have a DMD value of around 75 per cent while older stemmier swards when cut would have a DMD value of approx. 60 – 65 per cent. PH The PH of the silage indicates how well it has preserved. Well-preserved silage will result in increased animal intake and performance. Ammonia levels of less than 10 per cent are also desirable while higher values indicate poor preservation and spoilage. Crude Protein Crude protein levels reflect how mature the grass was at time of cutting with young leafy grass having values of 15 per cent with older, stemmy grasses having values of less than 10 per cent. Low protein silage will need to be supplemented with higher protein rations to compensate for this. Energy The energy value of silage is expressed as the amount of energy contained in every kg of silage dry matter and a value of 11 ME is very desirable in the result. Taking the sample To get the most accurate result it is best to sample a number of freshly opened bales or take a number of samples from deep into your silage pit. The sample should be

placed in a Ziploc type bag excluding air and sent to the Lab as soon as possible. Try to get your sample away at the start of the week as this should ensure that your sample is analysed as fast as possible and not left lying around over the weekend. A silage sample costs approximately €35 which is a small fee for vital information. Contact your local Teagasc Adviser/Agricultural Merchant to arrange sampling. *Teagasc provides a local advisory and education service to farmers with offices based in Roscommon Town (090-

6626166), Castlerea (0949620160) and Longford Town (043-3341021), You can find us on Facebook @Teagascro-

scommonlongford and twitter @teagascRNLD. Email; RoscommonLongfordAdvisory@ teagasc.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Vita House to host Men’s Support Group < DAN DOONER

Vita House in Roscommon town will play host to a ‘Men’s Support Group’, starting on January 12th of next year. The group is open to all men over the age o 18 and monthly meetings will take place on the second Wednesday of every month from 8 pm to 9.30 pm. The group, which will be facilitated by office manager, Donal Hanly and counsellor Raymond Flaherty, will aim to provide a safe and confidential space for men in Roscommon. “Since I started working here at Vita House, I have been very conscious of the fact that the majority of people who come through the door are women,” Donal said. “It started me thinking about the ways in which we can get more men to engage in mental health services. I Isabel and John O’Shaughnessy pictured at the Christmas Market at The Hub, Castlerea recently. Pic: Mick McCormack.

would be all too aware how in Roscommon men can be left feeling isolated and how at times they would find it hard to confide their feelings. “This is a setting where we want men to feel supported and listened to and so confidence and trust will be key”. Inspiring guest speakers and activity days away will be key components in the new programme as Vita House’s Men’s Support Group looks to help men “reconnect with each other and the world around them”. “It won’t be anything too heavy,” said Donal. “The men will be encouraged to bring whatever they like to the group so in that way it will be led by them and the needs and interests of the group. We hope that it will be fluid and cater for everyone attending”. Donal has long held a vision for such a group in Vita House but Covid-19 and

Widespread sadness following passing of popular former publican < SEAMUS DUKE

Pictured at the recent Christmas Market in Strokestown. Pics: Mick McCormack

There was widespread sadness in Roscommon town and indeed throughout counties Roscommon and Galway recently at news of the death of former publican Tom Lyons. The late Tom Lyons was proprietor of the popular Lyons’ Den pub on the corner of Main Street and Church Street for many years. In his early 80s, Tom had lived in Moycullen in County Galway in recent years. A genial host and a great character, Tom enjoyed his many years behind the counter in the pub which was a well-known watering hole for GAA and sporting enthusiasts in general. Tom was very proud of the achievements of all his family. His sons James and Thomas both played for Roscommon Gaels and represented Roscommon, and also starred with Creggs RFC. The late Tom Lyons, a native of Creggs, Co. Galway, had worked as an agricultural contractor before moving into the pub trade. While he had experienced ill health in recent years, in March 2020 he celebrated his 80th birthday at Roscommon Golf Club, accompanied by family and friends. It was a special night for the big crowd who gathered and Tom himself really enjoyed the occasion. Those of us who frequent-

The late Tom Lyons

ed the Lyons’ Den over the years will remember a gentle giant of a man with a great personality. He was great fun and a loyal friend who loved good-humoured conversation and meeting people. Predeceased by his former wife Ann and his brother Jim, Tom Lyons is mourned by his sons James, Thomas and Shane, daughter Ann Marie, sisters Mary and Nonie, brothers John and Pat, daughters-inlaw, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family,

and a very large circle of friends. Tom passed away at Moycullen Nursing Home on Monday, December 13th. Following Funeral Mass on Thursday last, he was laid to rest in Moycullen, Co. Galway. Tom Lyons will be remembered as one of the truly great characters of Roscommon town. A nicer man you could not meet. Deepest sympathies are extended to his family. May his kind and gentle soul rest in peace.

the subsequent lockdowns hampered progress in facilitating such services. “It was always something we had planned on doing and it was certainly always something I had in mind. It was Ed Smyth, our local Church of Ireland pastor, who gave me the spur to proceed with it during the most recent lockdown. A support group for men is something that has become even more relevant due to the effect lockdowns had on mental health,” Donal added. The Men’s Support Group will initially be open to a maximum of fifteen people at a cost of €5 per meeting and the expectation is that those places will fill up fast in the New Year. If you are interested in taking part or would like more information, please contact Donal Hanly at Vita House on 090-6625898 or by email dhanly@ vitahouse.org.

Gospel Reflection Sunday, December 26th Why did Jesus choose to become a baby born of a mother and father, and to spend all but His last years living in an ordinary human family? In part, to reveal God’s plan to make all people live as one “holy family” in His Church (see 2 Corinthians 6:16-18). In the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, God reveals our true home. We’re to live as His children, “chosen ones, holy and beloved,” as the First Reading puts it. The family advice we hear in today’s readings – for mothers, fathers, and children – is all solid and practical. Happy homes are the fruit of our faithfulness to the Lord, we sing in today’s Psalm. But the Liturgy is inviting us to see more, to see how, through our family obligations and relationships, our families become heralds of the family of God that He wants to create on earth. Jesus shows us this in today’s Gospel. His obedience to His earthly parents flows directly from His obedience to the will of His heavenly Father. Joseph and Mary aren’t identified by name, but three times are called “his parents” and are referred to separately as his “mother” and “father.” The emphasis is all on their familial ties to Jesus. But these ties are emphasised only so that Jesus, in the first words He speaks in Luke’s Gospel, can point us beyond that earthly relationship to the Fatherhood of God. In what Jesus calls “my Father’s house,” every family finds its true meaning and purpose (see Ephesians 3:15). The Temple we read about in the Gospel today is God’s house, His dwelling (see Luke 19:46). But it’s also an image of the family of God, the Church (see Ephesians 2:19-22; Hebrews 3:3-6; 10:21). In our families we’re to build up this household, this family, this living temple of God – until He reveals His new dwelling among us and says of every person: “I shall be his God and he will be my son” (see Revelation 21:3, 7). -Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (Courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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From the toy show to wrenboys – the appeal of uniquely Irish holiday traditions Let’s talk about ... Irish holiday traditions (A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy In our house, St Stephen’s Day was always celebrated by going on ‘The wren’. Each year on the 26th of December, the youngest in the family don their winter coats and Santa hats and take off on a tour of the locality, singing a few songs and (hopefully) making a few bob. In my head at least, the wren was always a highlight of the Christmas celebrations. Granted, I’ve no doubt that part of this was due to the fact that it paid quite well – the handful of coins we got at the door stacked up quickly enough, and if you were lucky, you managed to nab a few Roses on the way out. When you’re only old enough to receive money on special occasions (birthdays, communions, and the like), there is great novelty to earning that little bit of cash. Now, of course, I appreciate other aspects of those memories of going on the wren – the time spent excitedly practising songs with siblings and cousins, the fact that we would be kindly chauffeured around to the houses because it was too chilly for us, frantically stacking up the coins at the end of

the day to see if we’d bet last year’s record, and divvying it up among each of us and whatever charity was chosen to donate to that year. The whole practice of going on the wren was an occasion unto itself, and now, I remember those outings as fondly as the Christmas Days that happened alongside them. Another tradition that sparked the same sort of joy around the holiday season was the toy show. The pantomime and hype of the Late Late Toy Show is what made the programme a cultural staple in Ireland, and if you grew up watching it, your memories of the holidays are probably closely interlinked with memories of toy show takeaways and trying to keep your eyes open for the final bits of the programme. Like the wren, the Late Late Toy Show, and a handful of other traditions that I came to appreciate a little later on (looking at you, twelve pubs), a lot of the holiday practises I regard the most fondly tend to be unique to Ireland. Sure, these traditions were by no means followed to a T – the

Wren Day: An ancient Irish Christmas tradition that survives to this day in some houses.

simple Santa hat made for a weak comparison to the full costumes donned by traditional wrenboys, we didn’t bother to put a faux dead bird on a stick to symbolise ‘hunting the wren’, and I’m not committed enough to actually cover twelve pubs – but a degree of that is expected, and customs change and are adapted over time. In any case, among the hordes of practices that surface during this time of the year, the uniquely Irish ones are always the first that come to mind when I think about the holidays. Perhaps it’s the fact that with other customs such as setting up extravagant outdoor lights displays like they do in America or decorating gingerbread houses like they do in Germany – while being equal-

ly charming traditions that I’m sure others regard more fondly than some of the ones I prefer – the history is much more relevant. For example, I definitely prefer the taste of gingerbread to Christmas fruit cake, but ‘stirring in a wish’ with my mother as she did with hers sells it for me. In the same sense, while going on the wren bears similarity to carolling, the mythology and national history behind it made it all the more special. The holiday season is a time rooted in family and nostalgia, and so the knowledge that your traditions were practiced by generations before you, and continue to be practiced each year, adds an entirely new dimension to the celebrations. In any case, whether you prefer to celebrate with tradi-

all, here’s hoping that the last stretch of 2021 bodes well for all of us, and that we have a happy and healthy New Year.

Look after your mental health this holiday season

The holiday season can be an incredibly hard time for a variety of reasons, which is why it is so important to look after your mental health during this period. Be it that you’re struggling with the effects of isolation/ loneliness, conscious of the empty chair at the table, dealing with family issues, trying to navigate a way to juggle expenses etc, the holiday season is not always the warm, care-free time it is often purported to be. Add to that the effect that the poor weather and short, dark days have, it’s understandable why so many of us feel low at this time of the year. As of Tuesday, December 21st, the days are officially getting shorter, and we are slowing making our way back to brighter days, which is a mood booster for a lot of people. However, with the holidays and all their challenges still on the horizon, make sure to look after yourself and check in with others this holiday season.

Fitzmaurice: Restrictions will lead to house parties

‘Christmas lights’ Church gate collection

Please support the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee’s church gate collection, which takes place before Masses this weekend (24th-26th of December). The Christmas lights have been a beacon of hope and light for Christmas 2021. This year, it’s more important than ever that Roscommon be lit up, as a little light and cheer at Christmas cannot be underestimated. The Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee are renowned for the amazing festive displays they organise every year, displays which are the envy of many larger surrounding towns. The Christmas lights area only possible due to the hard work of the dedicated volunteers who make it all happen. If you can, please support the Christmas Lights Committee’s church gate collection – your support would be greatly appreciated!

tions from Ireland, traditions from abroad, traditions you’ve made up entirely yourself, or if you prefer not to celebrate at

Pictured at the recent Christmas Market in Strokestown. Pics: Mick McCormack

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said the new restrictions announced by An Taoiseach Michael Martin only “foster an environment for house parties”. Speaking following last Friday’s announcement which saw pubs and restaurants close at 8 pm from Monday, Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “At least if pubs were open until a reasonable time there would be some level of supervision and regulation. This will go out the window at house parties”. The Independent TD also expressed frustration at the lack of consultation with public representatives on new restrictions and accused the Government of allowing NPHET to “run the country”. He said: “The closing time of 8 pm will mean that some pubs or restaurants will not even bother opening as it wouldn’t make sense in their area. It is similar to the situation that transpired with nightclubs – closure by stealth,” he said.

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Find the crest… To enter, name all eight advertisements in which the Chamber crest is ‘hidden’ – that’s two each week. Only submit your entry after Week 4 of the campaign (Roscommon (Roscommon People issue dated December 24th, 2021) which will be distributed on Wednesday 22nd December. Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher competition’ by 1 pm on Thursday, December 23rd. Please make sure to include your name, address and contact number – and all eight answers (see entry coupon)! Entries by post or hand to the Roscommon People offices, Abbey Street, Roscommon. We will accept entries by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

And the award goes to… my top five ‘everyday’ heroes! < MIRIAM KERINS

The onset and the advance of this pandemic has forced us to dramatically change our lives, with the fallout leaving us feeling weary, fed up, short-changed and angry. However, throughout all of the stress, the uncertainty and the confusion, there have been those who have, through their hard work, their hope, their bravery and their dignity, managed to become an inspiration for each and every one of us. Therefore, when we get through this crisis, (and we will), I’ve got no doubt that history will record the following five courageous people/groups as being the very ones who influenced us, motivated us, encouraged us, and lifted us up during these devastating times. And the award goes to…

Vicky Phelan: This extraordinary CervicalCheck campaigner has gone through agonising and heroic lengths to stay alive and see her beautiful children grow into adults. However, heartbreakingly, this lady recently revealed her decision to cease chemotherapy in order to see in the festive season with her family, disclosing that while she’s not ‘frightened of death’ on the days she’s feeling well, she worries ‘about how it’s going to end’, when she’s feeling ill. It’s for this and many, many more reasons, that this soul-steering, exhilarating, wondrously brave legend gets my number one vote for ‘Person of the Year’.

Frontline/healthcare/emergency personnel: These titans have been asked (and expected) to treat massive amounts of people in what is a precariously shifting landscape without question and, very often, without proper rest and conditions. Despite the fact these medical professionals have undergone years of training, it’s blatantly clear that no amount of tuition could ever have prepared them for an event such as this pandemic. Neither were they properly equipped with the skills needed to deal with the reported 34,000 assaults levelled at them over the past seven years! It’s for that reason these angels need to be recognised and rewarded for going above and beyond in trying to keep us all healthy and alive during these uncertain times. Thank you!

Our local Gardaí: As a direct result of this pandemic, extra pressure has been placed on our Gardaí. During lockdown, as they made sure the public adhered to travel restrictions, our boys and girls in blue were often forced to stand in appalling weather conditions, with some receiving disgusting abuse from irate (and illmannered) motorists; all for just for doing their jobs. Who can forget the shocking image of a hoodlum firing a rocket in the direction of the head of one Garda during an anti-lockdown protest in Dublin last spring? According to local TD Denis Naughten, ‘Garda manpower has hit an all-time low in the Roscommon Garda District’, therefore I’d have to assume that so too has overall morale. For that reason, these courageous people deserve, not just our respect, they also deserve our support and our gratitude.

Finn Ryan: The sight of this beautiful boy ringing the bell to celebrate being cancerfree on this year’s Late Late Toy Show had me in floods of tears. Finn (8) not only accidentally broke the bell; his sweet nature, his cheeky grin, his cherubic little face and his courage nearly broke me too. According to the Irish Cancer Society, around 200 children are diagnosed with cancer in Ireland each year. While there’s absolutely nothing like hearing the ‘C’ word to strike terror into anyone’s heart, I can only imagine the fear, the dread and the panic that every parent goes through when told their child has a life-threatening condition. To that end, Finn, and every single child who has rung that bell, (and who is about to ring that bell), serves to remind us that there’s always hope. Finn, my darling, I wish you and your family a happy and healthy Christmas; your bravery has won the heart of the entire nation. Kellie Harrington: Following a year of Covid-infused bad news, I was thrilled when fellow Dubliner Kellie Harrington made history by bringing home the Olympic gold medal for boxing, making her one of our nation’s ‘most bankable’ world champions! However, it’s not just Kellie’s sporting prowess that impresses me, this woman’s appeal reaches way further than being an Olympic champion. Long before her Tokyo success, Kellie auctioned off her 2015 National Elite belt and Irish vest to raise funds for her neighbour who lost

their home to a fire. She also advocates for a number of charitable causes including homelessness, the rape crisis centre, and cancer charities etc. Since winning the gold, down-to-earth Kellie insisted

‘it’s not all about the money’, and, shunning offers to turn pro, she opted to remain in amateur boxing. In fact, within days of her returning to a hero’s welcome in Port-

land Row where she lives, this inspirational sportswoman clocked in at her job as a cleaner in St. Vincent’s Psychiatric Hospital in Fairview…what a champ!

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from Advertorial

Christmas all wrapped up for you at the Abbey Hotel Enjoy the build-up to the festive season in style at the Abbey. Carvery and lounge food is served daily, as well as a delightful festive à la carte menu, serving festive Christmas puddings and mince pies. Why not experience the culinary delights of the MultiAward Winning Chefs at the 4* Abbey Hotel Roscommon, for a dining experience where casual elegance and sophistication meets in a timeless relaxed atmosphere. County Winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel

Restaurant Award 2019. The 4* Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce and served with great care and attention to detail, therefore making it the perfect setting, whether dining in Roscommon for business or pleasure. 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 - 9.00 p.m. Afternoon Tea is available and cost is €25 pp (with prior booking essential) there is also a takeaway Afternoon tea option. It is advisable to make dinner reservations as our restaurant and lounge areas can be very busy at weekends and during the busy peak seasons especially with busy mid terms coming up. With the current COVID restrictions, all those wishing to dine in the Lounge and restaurant area must pre book their table. We also have a new Pizza Menu available to eat in or take out.

After dinner guests can relax 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 and a range of Cocktails are also served including the RAI award-winning ‘Apple of my eye’ Martini. We also serve an extensive range of craft beers, whiskeys, and liquors. The Abbey Hotel is renowned for it’s Sunday Lunch with Carvery Lunch served from 12.00pm 4.00pm. We also serve a FourCourse Lunch Menu in our award-winning Restaurant. Dinner is served from 6pm - 9pm each evening with Seasonal Bar Food served from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m daily. Samples of our menus are all available to view on our website. Gift Vouchers are available to purchase on our website www.abbeyhotel.ie or direct from hotel reception. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook Instagram and Twitter.

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

Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie 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

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

COMPETITION We had a huge response to our recent ‘Where is Ross the Elf’ The last two winners have been announced. Please see alongside

The winner is Sinead Ryan

The winner is Ciara Butler

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

who ne yo er ev nk ha T to ke li ld ou w y il Shane,Orla and the Fleming Fam ar. ye st pa is th lu Va er up S s g’ in m le F has supported e th r fo f af st d te ca di de r ou of ne yo We would like to thank each and ever amazing job they do every day. ove ab d an y pp ha , ul ef ac pe a ne yo er ev Wishing all safe Christmas this year. Shane & Orla

Fleming’s

SuperValu

Main Street, Roscommon Ph: 09066-26196

Real Food, Real People

‘I wish you and your families every blessing for Christmas’ Christmas Message

from Bishop Kevin Doran

Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin

It is 145km from Nazareth to Bethlehem. That’s almost exactly the same length as our Diocese, from Bunduff to Athlone. It would take a week to walk that far, and probably more if you were in the final stages of pregnancy. St. Luke tells us that Joseph and Mary left Nazareth to travel together to Bethlehem, to be included in the census ordered by the Emperor, Caesar Augustus. The next thing we hear is that the couple have arrived on the outskirts of Bethlehem, and the time has come for Mary to give birth. St. Luke tells us nothing about the journey. That is left to our imagination. I found myself imagining what it must have been like for the two of them, walking together all that distance. They were newly married; starting out on a new life together.

Soon they would have a baby to care for. What did they talk about on that long journey? What hopes did they share? What anxieties did they carry with them? You may have heard some talk recently about how the Catholic Church in Ireland is starting out on a Synodal Process. The word Synod literally means to “walk together”. Over the next four or five years, Catholics in Ireland are being invited to set out on a journey together, sharing our hopes, our disappointments and our anxieties and listening attentively to one another. Like Joseph and Mary, and indeed like every newly-married couple, we are being invited to step into the future together, in a spirit of trust. Joseph and Mary were Jewish by birth and by faith, but they lived in a world dominated by Romans. The Middle East then, as now, was a mixture of many cultures. Catholics in Ireland today need to work

out how we can walk alongside people of other religious traditions and people of no faith, sharing the earth which God has given us as our common home. We need to ask ourselves what the Holy Spirit wants us to do and to be in the years ahead. All of this will involve moving beyond our ‘comfort zone’. We may have to adjust our pace to be able to walk together. Patience and gentleness will be called for, especially when we find ourselves on ‘rough terrain’. As the Bible tells us there will be “a time to be silent and a time to speak”. Who knows where the journey will lead us? We had actually begun a series of synodal gatherings in the Diocese as far back as early 2020 but, like many things, these were interrupted by Covid-19. Our Diocesan Pastoral Council is now exploring how best we can include as many people as possible in the preliminary conversations that will take place in the

Diocese in the coming months. As we set out along our synodal pathway, there may be some unexpected turns, as there were for Joseph and Mary. But if Jesus is with us, as He was with them, and if we are walking together, isn’t that what this is all about? As Christmas approaches and 2021 draws to a close, I want to offer my condolences to all who have lost family members or friends in the past year, and to those who have suffered other kinds of loss. I take this opportunity to say a word of thanks to our priests, our deacons and to the sisters working in the Diocese and to all the many parish volunteers who have given so generously of their time. I wish you and your families every blessing for Christmas and the coming year. God bless you all. Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Steve, Anne Marie, Madge and Aodhan Stapleton pictured out and about in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Dougie, Maura, Amelia and Noah Doolan pictured out and about in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lisa Hardiman, Evie, Cait and Mary Gleeson pictured in Roscommon recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Build-up to Christmas: Paul, Ann Marie, Julie Ann, Conor and Daniel Higgins pictured on Main Street in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

Malachy Grehan, Bernadette Murray and Mary Grehan pictured out and about in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

090 66 26664 / 087 6339548 / 087 8512921 email : info@connaughtonfuels.ie

COMPLETE YOUR TRANSACTION ONLINE SINCE OUR LINK-UP WITH THE STRIPE PAYMENT SYSTEM !!

Let us deliver your practical Christmas present! FINAL DELIVERIES ON WEDNESDAY 23RD. COLLECTIONS ONLY AT WAREHOUSE ON CHRISTMAS EVE MORNING FROM 8.30AM 11.30AM ONLY

Wishing our loyal staff and customers a Happy and a safe Christmas and an even better New Year

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Stockin all size g of Flo Ga s Bottle s To suit y o u r every n eed

FREE Y R DELIVOE N UM M I N I M ORDER

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Declan, Mary T, Barry, Mark and all the Staff, would like to wish everyone a Happy & Healthy Christmas and a big ‘Thank You’ for supporting Molloys Bakery during this challenging year.

Declan, Mary T, Barry, Fresh Bread SourDough, Award all the Staff, Mark– and Winning Oatmeal much ne everyo wishand like toSoda would more available on & Monday 27yth Health a Happy December Christmas and a big ‘Thank You’ for supporting Molloys Bakery during this challenging year Also, the Molloy family would like to say a big thank you and appreciate our loyal staff for their hard work and dedication during a challenging 2021

Declan, Mary T, Barry, Mark and all the Staff, would like to wish everyone a Happy & Healthy Christmas and a big ‘Thank You’ for supporting Molloys Bakery during this challenging year.

Fresh Bread – SourDough, Award Winning Oatmeal Soda and much more available on Monday 27th December

Fresh Bread – SourDough, Award-winning Oatmeal Soda and much more available on Monday 27th December

! Abbeytown, Galway Rd., Roscommon Town • Email: info@molloysbakery.ie • Tel: 090 6625940

‘Jiving Juniors’ Dance School to feature in new RTÉ Christmas production! Jiving Juniors Dance School, which includes pupils from Roscommon, Sligo and Mayo, will feature on RTÉ programme ‘A Kids’ Country Christmas’ this Christmas Eve on RTÉ 2 at 3.35 pm. ‘A Kids’ Country Christmas’ features young dancers and singers from around the country with a big interest in the Irish country music scene. Pupils from Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon, along with their teacher Sandra Ganley, were delighted to feature in this exciting country music programme.   Founder of Jiving Juniors, Sandra Ganley, said: “Jiving Juniors is Ireland’s first and only children’s social dance school, so I am privileged to be part of this wonderful production by RTÉ to help promote Irish country music. “I started Jiving Juniors Dance School in 2016 and it has grown in popularity, and now offers classes for Jiving Tots, Jiving Juniors, and Jiving Teens. “I am extremely proud of and thankful for the work my pupils have put in for this exciting television production and of course we had lots of fun dancing in our Christmas jumpers and Santa hats”. Don’t miss out and tune in for some enjoyable festive entertainment. Jiving and Line dancing will be performed to fantastic music and singing by young country singer, Caillín Joe.

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

s g n i t e e r g Season’s from

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Local Representatives Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and all the best for 2022 from

Thank you for your support in 2021 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Cllr. John

Cllr Emer

KEOGH

KELLY

Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon 087 6440534

Phone: 087 0664568 Email: emerk1999@gmail.com

cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

Facebook/Instagram/Twitter: Cllr Emer Kelly

Season’s greetings to all from

Many thanks for your support throughout the year, it was greatly appreciated.

Cllr. ORLA

Stay Local - Shop Local in our wonderful town

LEYDEN

Season’s greetings to all from

Cllr Marty

Mobile:

McDermott

087 2819918

Tel. 087 3466064

“Working with the Community”

Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Thank you for your support in 2021 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Cllr. NIGEL

DINEEN INDEPENDENT

CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Season’s greetings to one and all from

CLLR. LIAM CALLAGHAN COUNCILLOR FOR THE BOYLE AREA

Contact me with any issues on 086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie

Cllr. Laurence FALLON

CATHAOIRLEACH, OF ATHLONE MUNICIPAL AREA

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

086 1914565 Thank you for your support in 2021 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from Michael, Maria and family

Thank you for your support in 2021 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Cllr

John Naughten

ARDKEENAN, DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

(090) 6437928 / (087) 9019334

E.: cllrjnaughten@roscommoncoco.ie

Wishing all my family, friends, constituents, CEO and staff of Roscommon County Council a very Happy Christmas and all the best in 2022

Cllr. Valerie Byrne

Cllr. Tony Ward

Lisduff, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Nora and family Tel: (090) 64 88294 or Mobile: (087) 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net

Tel.: 071 9635384 Mobile: 086 8887897

Independent member of Roscommon County Council and a full time public representative.

cllrvbyrne@roscommoncoco.ie

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year from

Thank you for your support in 2021 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Councillor JOE MURPHY 0861052197

Shop local, support local, stay local, stay safe!

Mobile:

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and all the best for 2022 from

Telephone:

Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 090 6488232 M: 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Cathaoirleach Roscommon County Council

‘Please shop local. When shopping online, support local businesses’

Independent Community Councillor

Cllr. Kathleen

Abby Carthy and Aoife Connolly pictured under the Christmas lights in Roscommon. Pic: Mick McCormack

SHANAGHER Ard Aoibhinn, Athlone Road, Roscommon

T: 090 6627138 M: 086 3726743 • email: cllrkshanagher@roscommoncoco.ie Shop Local, Strengthen Your Local Economy and Invest in Your Community.

s g n i t e e r g Season’s from

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Local Representatives

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2022

Thank you for your support in 2021 and wishing you all a very

Happy Christmas and a properous New Year

Cllr. John

DONAL KILDUFF

Cummins

Abbeytown, Boyle (086) 8234050 (071) 96 63354

Thank you for your support in 2021 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Athlone Local Electoral Area Roscommon County Council

Cllr. Michael Mulligan

& Family

INDEPENDENT

The Square, Ballaghaderreen Contact me on (087) 7799781

Best wishes for 2022

Phone: 086 8579459

Email: cllrdkilduff@roscommoncoco.ie

Top of the pods! Podcasts to settle down with this Christmas…

Podcasts have already become an increasingly popular method of consuming content, and the amount of quality podcasts out there to enjoy is continuing to grow. With this in mind, Alannah Ita Healy gives us the rundown on some top pods to add to your playlist this Christmas…

The Tommy, Hector and Laurita podcast Described as “pure conversation of the language loving storytelling variety”, this pod features comedian Tommy Tiernan, his old school pal Hector O’hEeochagain and Mayo woman Laurita Blewitt. The three basically sit down for an unpredictable but funny chat – and you’ll wish you were right there with them!

The Blindboy Podcast Hosted by Irish musician and satirist Blindboy Boatclub (David Chambers), this series remains one of Ireland’s most popular podcasts. The podcast includes interviews with wellknown comedians, activists, and academics, and also covers issues like mental health, politics, culture, music, and history through social commentary and ‘hot takes’.

Off Menu Offering a more comedic listening experience, James Acaster and Ed Gamble’s Off Menu podcast is one that is more on the fun, lighthearted side. In each episode, the two British comedians interview a celebrity guest, asking them what dishes would feature on the menu of their dream restaurant. Episodes aren’t chronological, so why not tune into an episode featuring a favourite celebrity to get a taste?

Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain For those who are already fans of YouTuber Emma Chamberlain or content like hers, this podcast would be the perfect option to settle down with this Christmas. Discussing a broad range of topics from relationships to funny stories, daily struggles and everything in between, the popular podcast offers a little of everything and is worth checking out.

Queen of the Con – The Irish Heiress Serial Serial is one of the most popular investigative journalism podcasts to come out in recent years, having amassed a sizeable, loyal following since its initial release. Each season takes an in-depth look at a particular true crime story, dissecting it though interviews and investigation, making for a compelling overall listen.

Hosted by Emmy award-winning producer Jonathan Walton, the podcast tells the story of how Walton was conned out of almost $70,0000 by a woman called Mair Smyth, a ‘descendant of Irish royalty’. The podcast was recieved extremely well by Irish listeners due to its immersive plot, well balanced narrative, and dramatic reconstructions, and would be an ideal podcast to get into this Christmas.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Local towns & villages

A Christmas message from Cllr Emer Kelly I would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. During the Christmas period there is so much we sometimes take for granted, for example Christmas Dinner, and the joy and happiness we experience with our families. We sometimes forget about the people who do not have the same Christmas

experience as us, who cannot enjoy a Christmas dinner, and who experience Christmas in a negative way. Over the past number of months, Covid-19 restrictions have had a huge negative impact on people’s mental health, with the number of suicides and people accessing mental health services still very high. It has

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2021 from

Contact Charlie: 087 2725297 Cloverhill, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6627907 Fax: 090 6628928 Email: doortec2@hotmail.com

been something to affect every one of us in some way, from not being able to attend local GAA matches to experiencing social isolation as a result of the closure of services and amenities. We have had to rely on our local communities and neighbours more than ever. This year, instead of sending out

Christmas cards, I will be making a donation to Jigsaw Ireland, who work tiredlessly to assist people with mental health difficulties. I would encourage everyone to be increasingly mindful and caring this Christmas, and to check in on friends and neighbours over the Christmas time and into the new year. Merry Christmas!

Veronica ‘on song’ to raise €3,361 for Hospice! Veronica Flynn pictured presenting a cheque for €3,361 to Sinead O’Malley of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation. Veronica, who hails from Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon, recorded the song ‘One Day at a Time’ on Facebook to raise funds

for Hospice. Veronica said it was on her ‘bucket list’ of goals to achieve and she is blown away by the support her fundraiser received. She would like to thank all those who donated and supported her in her efforts.

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2021 from

Vintage Road Run in Williamstown this St. Stephen’s Day (26th) The 17th annual St. Stephen’s Day Road Run (pre-1992 registered vehVintage will take place from Williamstown icles only) at 10 am on December 26th. All proceeds from this year’s run towards the Children’s Health Fouwill go ndation in Crumlin Children’s Medical Research All support is greatly appreciated Centre. information, contact Mary on 086 and for more -3971278.

Naughton’s

Car Sales Ltd. BALLYDANGAN, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

Telephone: 090 9673411 / 087 232 2230. Fax: 090 9673411. Website: www.naughtonsgarage.ie

Season’s Greetings to one and all from

Drumderrig House Private Nursing Home Abbeytown, Boyle, Co, Roscommon Tel: (071) 9662561 Email: paula@drumderrignursinghome.com Website: www.drumderrig.com Wishing all our local Community a very Happy Christmas and thank you for all your support during 2021 from

Kilbride Community Centre Bernie: 086 6000755 Ita: 086 1636578

Kilbride Community Bus is available to all, card payments are now accepted in Community shop

Astro Turf Pitch Available

Christmas Dinner is the ‘Beez Kneez’! The pre-school room at Beez Kneez Childcare, Glenamaddy was recently transformed into a dining hall and the children had lots of fun as they enjoyed a lovely Christmas Dinner before the start of their holidays. They were served by some of Santa’s hard-working elves before dancing to their favourite Christmas songs. Merry Christmas to all from the staff and children at Beez Kneez!

Luke Cardwell was up bright and early on the lookout for Santa Claus this week in Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon! Picture courtesy MEE’S of Declan Martin A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2021 from

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

FRESH PIZZA

Season’s GreetingsMEE’S to one and all from

KNOCKCROGHERY

MEE’S

NOW AVAILABLE

Opening hours: Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday

06:00 - 22:00 07:00 - 22:00 08:00 - 22:00

KNOCKCROGHERY

KNOCKCROGHERY SEE IN-STORE

FOR MORE Opening hours: OFFERS

Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday

Opening hours: SIP

€5.50 Mon - Fri 06:00 - 22:00 & SAVOUR 07:00 - 22:00 ONLY €12 08:00 - 22:00

06:00 - 22:00 WINE OF THE MONTH 07:00 -Saturday 22:00 BRANCOTT SAUVIGNON BLANC 08:00 -Sunday 22:00

EACH

Address:

Mee’s Daybreak

Glebe, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

All offers valid from 04/07/2021 - 31/07/2021 unless otherwise stated. Products are subject to availablility. Available while stocks last in participating stores.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

PropertyPeople E-MAIL: ldowdproperties@gmail.com WEB: www.lorettadowdpropertylettings.com SOL

SOL

D SOL

SOL

Grange Manor, Tulsk.

Knock, Co. Mayo.

Red Brick House, Roscommon

Cloonbrackna Avenue.

SOL

D SOL

Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town

SOL Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Foxford, Co Mayo.

For Sale Lanesborough Street, Roscommon Town

6 Bedroom town house reisdence in a much sought after area, just a stones throw from the square in Roscommon Town centre and all amenities. Accommodation comprises briefly of Entrance hallway, kitchen, sitting room, first floor 4 bedrooms in all with shower room, second floor 2 bedrooms and shower room. Located to rear of property is a patio area and a large south facing garden area. Immediate viewings Invited. Contact Loretta Dowd on 087 2233223

Portumma, Co Galway.

Thank you for your support in 2021 and looking forward to your continued support in 2022 Celebrating 10 Years in Business

E SAL

ED E R G

SAL

EE R G A

61 Castle Manor, Roscommon Town

Hill View, Ballintubber

GR A E L

EED

Ardnanagh, Roscommon Town

SAL

EE R G A

44 Castle Manor, Roscommon Town

“2021” started as 2020 finished, uncertainties in the market due to Covid 19, however as 2021 progressed I am glad to report that the property market finished on a high, with strong demand for residential properties in all areas, especially Roscommon town. Loretta Dowd is delighted to report that viewings and offers regarding all properties have been swift and has had a very successful year with record sales. Due to low stock and high demand “Loretta Dowd Properties” is seeking properties in all areas especially residential homes in Roscommon Town and county. Loretta Dowd Properties offers services in Residential sales, land sales, site sales and property lettings etc... If you are thinking of selling in 2022, for free valuation please contact Loretta Dowd M.I.P.A.V. (Member of The Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers) on 0872233223 For a full listing of properties for sale with Loretta Dowd Properties visit www.daft.ie/ lorettadowdproperties

URGENTLY SEEKING PROPERTIES IN ALL AREAS: Loretta Dowd Properties is urgently seeking residential properties and land in all areas. For a no obligation and confidential appraisal - Please contact Loretta Dowd on 087 2233223

Auctioneer Loretta Dowd.

Seasonal greetings

would Loretta Dowd M.I.P.A.V.ppy Ha ry Ve a like to wish s Christmas and Prosperouers, tom cus her all to r New Yea family and friends and is looking forward to your 2. continued support in 202 Stay safe everyone x

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

PropertyPeople

RE/MAX Team Earley: The new powerhouse of property! In the first few months of trading, the new partnership of RE/MAX Team Earley has broken sales records when it comes to residential and commercial property. Under the stewardship of Cormac Sheehy and Cathal Meares, along with the valuable assistance of

Pictured is Cathal Meares of RE/ MAX Team Earley.

John Earley as consultant to the business, the partnership has already seen great success. 2022 will be a huge year for this new business, with Cormac attending a worldwide showcase of property in January in Dubai, offering a huge opportunity for business/

RE/MAX Team Earley advise they have sold on two prime farms located in Strokestown, Roscommon. The first was a prime farm of agricultural and forestry lands comprising approximately 67.6 acres, located at Oakfield, Strokestown, Roscommon. The second was a prime residential farm of approximately 133.4 acres, located at Killukin Strokestown, Roscommon. For more information on RE/MAX Team Earley and the properties they have on offer, phone 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax. ie, or log onto teamearley. ie. Contact Cormac directly on 086-3519492, and Cathal on 086-1409158. 67.6-acre farm at Oakfield, Strokestown, Roscommon.

Sold

Whitehouse Hotel sold by RE/MAX Team Earley The substantial hotel property contains nineteen bedrooms, is pproximately 22,000 square feet, and is located on the main Dublin/

Castlebar/Knock Shrine route. For more information on RE/MAX Team Earley and properties on offer, phone 090-6626579,

email teamearley@ remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact Cormac directly on 0863519492, and Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

Forestry land on the books at RE/MAX Team Earley Investment for raw land and maturing forestry will be very strong in 2022. At Remax Team Earley, we currently have an order for up to 1,000 acres for maturing forestry and carbon purposees.

RE/MAX Team Earley invite those considering selling forestry land in all areas to apply in confidence to the office. For more information, contact RE/ MAX Team Earley (Stone Court,

The Square, Roscommon) on 090-6626579, email teamearley@ remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie. Contact Cormac directly on 0863519492, and contact Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

Cairn House sold by RE/MAX Team Earley Among the properties sold by RE/MAX Team Earley this year was Cairn House. Situated in Curry, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, this substantial dormerstyle residence contains eight bedrooms and comprises approximately 3,121 square feet. For more information on RE/MAX Team Earley and the properties they have on offer, phone 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax. ie, or log onto teamearley. ie. Contact Cormac directly on 086-3519492, and contact Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

Pictured is Cormac Sheehy of RE/ MAX Team Earley.

SOLD - prime Strokestown farms

d l o S

Among the properties sold by RE/MAX Team Earley in 2021 was The Whitehouse Hotel in Ballinlough village, Roscommon.

residential sales. Contact RE/MAX Team Earley (Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon) on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact Cormac directly on 086-3519492, and contact Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

Sold

Sold 133.4-acre farm at Killukin, Strokestown, Roscommon.

Retail units wanted – office space, pubs, shops etc. Due to a high volume of enquiries for commercial/investment property over the last couple of months, RE/ MAX Team Earley now

require properties for cash clients. Contact RE/MAX Team Earley (Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon) on 090-

6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact Cormac directly on 086-3519492, and Cathal on 086-1409158.

Land sales remain strong heading into 2022 RE/MAX Team Earley are advising that the market for agricultural land sales and the leasing of lands remains strong heading into the New Year. Land is predicted to be even greater demand in 2022, due to taxation relief via term land leasing and increased investment. RE/MAX Team Earley now require

agricultural lands for sale and lease for a number of clients already on our books for 2022. Contact RE/MAX Team Earley (Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon) by phone 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie/www.teamearley.ie. You can also contact Cormac directly on 0863519492 or Cathal on 086-1409158.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

PropertyPeople STONE COURT CENTRE, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON

Telephone: (090) 6626579 / 6626796

DUE TO CANCELLATION A PRIMELY LOCATED RESIDENTIAL 7 DAY LICENSED PREMISES OF APPROX 2,800 SQ. FT. LOCATED AT

MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45 R6V3

Mobile:

Cormac: (086) 3519492 Cathal: (086) 1409158

Email: Web:

teamearley@remax.ie www.teamearley.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET A 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

MOUNT PLEASANT, STROKESTOWN CO. ROSCOMMON F42 WR63

PSRA Licence No. 004420

DUE TO CANCELLATION 4 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE WITH 1 B/R APT LOCATED ON A LARGE SITE APPROX. 1.6 ACRES WITH FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY (SUBJECT TO PLANNING) LOCATED AT

AMV: OFFERS AFTER €125,000

CARROWROE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON F42 XK58

A primely located public house located in the heart of Castlerea Town adjacent to the Mart and all town amenities. Offering spacious commercial and residential accommodation throughout, the property lends itself to various alternative uses due its size and location. The said property and 7 day license can be sold independently should market interest dictate and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €125,000 to sell. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

A beautiful 4 bed Bungalow on the outskirts of Strokestown. Set on a mature site area of 0.86 of an acre, this home is in turnkey condition. The accommodation comprises briefly of four large double bedrooms, a lovely modern kitchen/diner, sitting room and an ample utility. Located 15km from Roscommon and 4km from Strokestown on the Four Mile House Road This home is both private and quiet as well as being within touching distance of both towns. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

The property is presented in good condition and is being sold as is. The property benefits from a 1 bedroom/1 bathroom granny flat. House comprising of entrance hall, living room , kitchen, dining room bathroom w.c and 4 bedrooms. Total area: approx. 1,600 sq. ft. Heated via oil fired central heating and a solid fuel stove with back boiler. Externally the property sits on approx 1.65 acre site with 2 storage sheds and tarmac driveway. Carrowroe is situated two minutes from Roscommon Town and the property is within easy access of ample amenities. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET-

17.8 ACRES OF AGRICULTURAL LANDS LOCATED AT

A BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY – SHANNONSIDE SAVOURIES, DROMOD

AMV: €120,000

CLOONCOLRY, DROMOD, CO. LEITRIM. N41 KR91

NEW TO THE MARKET COMMERCIAL PREMISES OF APPROX 6,000 SQ FT FORMERLY KNOWN AS

‘MIDAS NITE CLUB’ BALLYHAUNIS TOWN AMV: €125,000

A great opportunity to purchase a commercial unit of approx. 6,000 sq. ft. in the heart of Ballyhaunis Town. Formally known as Midas Nightclub. Commercial space on approx. 0.27 acres. Adjacent to thriving businesses (Midland Radio and Dawn Meats) on either side of this property offering a high level of exposure to the public on a busy street in Ballyhaunis town. Also, there is an opportunity to purchase the adjoining site on approx. 0.31 acres. This property offers huge potential for use, centrally located in the thriving town of Ballyhaunis, which benefits from a large passing trade and growing population in the town and surrounding areas. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

NEW TO THE MARKET 4 B/R SEMI DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

7 CHESTNUT GROVE, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 YT62 AMV: €150,000 A quality 4 b/r semidetached residence located in the attractive Chestnut Grove development and within walking distance of Tulsk village. This property is in turnkey condition. Comprising briefly of reception, kitchen, sittingroom, four well apportiond bedrooms with master ensuite, family bathroom and wc. Located on a mature site. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

AMV: €240,000

AMV: €220,000

TUAM, KILROOSKEY, CO. ROSCOMMON

Approx. 17.8 acres of prime agricultural land set out in two lots: Lot 1: Roadside holding of lands approx. 8 acres - Price Guide €40,000 Lot 2: Quality holding of lands approx. 9.8 acres with Cattle crush and holding pen standing thereon Price Guide €80,000 The sale of these said lands offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Roscommon and Strokestown. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

NEW TO THE MARKET COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL /7 DAY LICENSED PREMISES KNOWN AS ‘MEE’S PUB & SHOP’

KILKERRIN VILLAGE, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY AMV: €250,000

A commercial unit located in Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. The unit known as Mee’s, is a thriving business with a fully operational public house, XL grocery shop and complete with a 4 bed/1 bath residential property occupying the first floor. The property extends to approx. 5,000 sq. ft. and sits on a site of c. 0.49 acres. To the rear are several useful storage sheds, a beer garden, yard and garden area. The whole unit is presented in excellent condition throughout. The busy XL grocery shop is the only shop serving the village and the thriving public house has built up an excellent name over the years. Located in the heart of Kilkerrin village, on the main Galway Road and adjacent to the church. Viewing of this property is highly recommended The Auctioneer now invites Viewings by appointment only.

COMMERCIAL UNIT LOCATED IN

AMV: €100,000 The unit currently operates as Shannonside Savouries located on the outskirts of Dromod and is a long-established and thriving savoury business established in 1996 to manufacture and market speciality products – namely Boxty and potato cakes. The potato range has been highly successful, giving these traditional specialities a completely new lease of life and introducing them to an entirely new market. Due to this success, Shannonside also manufacture a comprehensive range of ready-made salads and cater for retail outlets across Ireland. Shannonside’s strong product range is supported by a refrigerated delivery service and a network of agents who distribute, market, and merchandise the range throughout Ireland. The unit is spread over 2 floors extending to c. 111 sq. m. and externally sits on a site of approx. 0.5 acres. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

APPROX 46.5 ACRES LOCATED AT

CLOONYKELLY, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON (BORDERING THE RIVER SUCK) Comprised in Folio 30989F, a farm which offers lands in grass and wetlands on to the River Suck (holding potential) due to location to Athleague and set in a renowned farming area. Accordingly the sale of these said lands must offer all farmers purchase opportunity. The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

Our office will be closed from Thursday 23rd December 2021 and will reopen on Tuesday 4th January 2022. We are available for out of office calls over the Christmas period by contacting Cormac on 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 AS 2021 DRAWS TO A CLOSE-REMAX TEAM EARLEY WISH TO THANK ALL THEIR VALUED CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OVER THE PAST YEAR AND WE WISH THEM A VERY HAPPY & SAFE CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

090 6663700 OFFICE 086 8985013 IVAN

And Happy New Year From Ivan & The Team

Open the door to new beginnings in 2022 Athleague, Co. Roscommon - F42 TW70 | PSRA NO: 004422 info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

ARAGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, RP73 ARAGH MO, MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 H54 RP73 ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM,TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73

16 St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021 Roscommon town

4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Town

Laragh More, Tuam, Co. Galway

16ARAGH St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, 4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh More, Tuam, MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 16 St MORE, Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, 4TUAM, St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon ARAGH BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 ARAGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, CO. GALWAY, H54RP73 RP73Laragh More, Tuam, Roscommon town Town Galway ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY,H54 H54RP73 RP73 Co. Roscommon town Town Co. Galway ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY,H54 H54RP73 RP73 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY,H54 H54 RP73 RP73

SOL

Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Joans Classic Cutz, Church 16 St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh More, Tuam, Co.16Roscommon, Roscommon St Roscommon 16 St. Theresa’s Road, Laragh More, Tuam, 4 St. Ciaran’s Park, St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, 4 St4 Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh More, Tuam, 16 St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Lisnamult, Co. Roscommon Roscommon town Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Roscommon town Roscommon town Co. Roscommon, Co. Roscommon,

4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh More, Tuam, Co. Galway Roscommon Town Town Co. Galway Ballymartin More, Golf Links Classic Cutz, Church Ballymartin More, Golf LinksRoad, Road, Joans JoansCo. Classic Church Town Galway Town Co. Galway Roscommon StStRoscommon Roscommon Roscommon

D SOL

SOL

Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Joans Classic Cutz, Church Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Joans Classic Cutz, Church Co. Roscommon, Roscommon St Roscommon Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Joans St Classic Cutz, Church Co.Barnacullen, Roscommon, Roscommon Roscommon Co. 27 Roscommon, St Roscommon Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro, Lanesboro Street, 5Roscommon Palace Road, Bishop St, Elphin Co. Longford Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

27 Na Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Cnoc Gaoithe, 27 27 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro Co. Longford Lanesboro Co. Longford Lanesboro Co. Longford

5 Palace Road, Bishop 5 Palace Road, Bishop 5 Palace Road, Bishop st stst Elphin Co. Roscommon Elphin Co. Roscommon Elphin Co. Roscommon

D SOL

27 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, 27 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro Co. Longford Lanesboro Co. Longford 27 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro Co. Longford 1 Oaklawn Drive, Racecourse

Rd, Roscommon Town

Cooltigue, Derrane Cooltigue, Derrane Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon

Cooltigue, Derrane SO Cooltigue, Co. Roscommon Derrane

5 The Fairways, Roscommon 5 The Fairways, Roscommon Town Town

5 The Fairways, SORoscommon 5 The Fairways, Roscommon Town

SOL

Anratabeg, Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon

37 Oldwood, Ardsallagh, Roscommon Town

SOL

5 Palace Road, Bishop st 5 Palace Bishop st ElphinRoad, Co. Roscommon Elphin Co. Roscommon 5 Palace Road, Bishop st Elphin Co. Roscommon Caggle, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Cooltigue, Derrane 5 The Fairways, Roscommon Co. Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon Town Cooltigue, Derrane 5 The Fairways, Roscommon Co. Roscommon Town 11 Oldwood, Golf Links Road, Church Lane, Elphin, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

D SOL

Lanesboro Street Lanesboro Street Lanesboro Street Roscommon Town Roscommon Town Roscommon Town

D SOL

Lanesboro Street Lanesboro RoscommonStreet Town Roscommon Town Lanesboro Street Roscommon TownCreevy, Ardsallagh More, Roscommon Town

53 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro, Co. Longford

D SOL

Rathmew, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

SOKilconnell Cappagh Bridge, Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

SOL

Laragh More, Tuam, Co. Galway

16 StMORE, Theresa’sBALLYGLUNIN, Road, Lisnamult, 4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon ARAGH TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73Laragh More, Tuam, ARAGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO.GALWAY, GALWAY, H54 Roscommon town Town Co. Galway ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. H54RP73 RP73 16 StARAGH Theresa’s Road, BALLYGLUNIN, Lisnamult, 4 StGALWAY, Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh More, Tuam, ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. H54 RP73 MORE, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 Roscommon town Town Co. Galway ARAGH MO, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73 LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, GALWAY, H54 RP73 ARAGH MLLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73

PropertyPeople

16 St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Roscommon town

4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Town

Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. 3 Solas, The Walk, Roscommon Town

SOL

Mullymucks, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Cuillawinnia, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

LARGH MORE, BALLYGLUNIN, TUAM, CO. GALWAY, H54 RP73

Barnacullen, Knockcroghery,

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Joans Classic Cutz, Church

Co. Roscommon, Roscommon Roscommon Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, JoansStClassic Cutz, Church 16 St16Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon More, Tuam, St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, 44StStCiaran’s Park, Roscommon Laragh Laragh More, Tuam, Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Laragh Joans Classic Cutz, Church Co. Roscommon, Roscommon St Roscommon 16 St Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, 4 St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon More, Tuam, Roscommon town Town Co. Galway Roscommon town Co. Roscommon, Roscommon town

SOL

Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Co. 27 Roscommon, Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Co. Roscommon, 27Cnoc Cnoc Na Na Gaoithe, Co. Roscommon, 27 Gaoithe, Lanesboro Co. Co. Longford Longford Lanesboro Lanesboro Longford

SOL

Cnoc Na Gaoithe, 27 Cnoc27Na Gaoithe, Co. Longford 27 Cnoc NaLanesboro Gaoithe, Lanesboro Co. Longford Lanesboro Co. Longford Cooltigue, Derrane, Cooltigue, Derrane Cooltigue, Derrane Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon

Cooltigue, Derrane Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon

SOL

Cooltigue, Derrane Cooltigue, Derrane Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon Cooltigue, Derrane Co. Roscommon

Killea, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Ballymacfarrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

SOL

38 Cluain Fraoigh, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon

SOL

Church Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Town

Co. Galway St Roscommon Co. Galway

Roscommon Town

SOL

Ballymartin More, GolfLinks Links JoansJoans Joans Classic Cutz, Church St., Ballymartin More,More, Golf Links Road, Classic Cutz, Church Ballymartin Golf Classic Cutz, Church Ballymartin More, Golf Links Road, Road, Joans Classic Cutz, Church Road, Roscommon Roscommon Roscommon St Roscommon 5 Palace Road, Bishop st Lanesboro Street Roscommon St Roscommon 5 Palace Road, Bishop st st Lanesboro StreetStreet Roscommon St Roscommon 5 Palace Road, Bishop Lanesboro

Elphin Co. Roscommon Elphin Co.Co. Roscommon Elphin Roscommon

SOL

5 Palace Bishop 5 Palace Road,Road, Bishop st st Elphin Co. Roscommon 5 Palace Road, Bishop st Elphin Co. Roscommon Elphin Roscommon 5 The Co. Fairways, Roscommon 5 The Fairways,

5 The Fairways, Roscommon Roscommon Town

Town 5Town The Fairways, Roscommon Town

Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Cappagh Bridge,Co. Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Galway. Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

SOL

Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Knockalaghta, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

The Grove, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

Cappagh Bridge,Co. Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Galway.

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

SOL

Tall trees, Garraun North, Cregge, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Lanesboro Street Lanesboro Street Roscommon Town Lanesboro Street Roscommon Town Roscommon Town Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell,

SOL

5 The Fairways, Roscommon 5 The Town Fairways, Roscommon Town 5 The Fairways, Roscommon Town

Roscommon Town Roscommon TownTown Roscommon

‘Corriga’ Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town.

SOL

1 The Rise, Hudson Bay, Athlone Co. Roscommon

SOL

5 Shannon Grove, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon

SOL

Muckanagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Consistently delivering excellent results for our clients

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Property/NewsPeople

Douglas Drive Residents Group hosts ‘A Winter Wonderland’ The recently established Douglas Drive Residents Group hosted their first community ‘Winter Wonderland’ themed event in Roscommon town on Saturday, December 11th. The event was a huge success with 123 residents and their close friends and family in attendance. The resident group’s committee had only been established at their first meeting on November 11th but with the support of the resident group members, they managed to organise a fantastic community event in a very short space of time. This event was an exciting moment for the Residents’ Group as it marked the coming together of a new community and the celebration of their first year in Douglas Drive. There were musical performances and Christmas carols from local operatic singer Darren O’Hara and the Roscommon Community College Choir as well a nail-biting hour-long performance by the Corvinni Circus. There was also a very special opportunity for children on the housing scheme to visit Santa in his grotto and post their letters in Santa’s big red postbox. This

New to the market

Pictured at Douglas Drive Residents Group’s first community ‘Winter Wonderland’ themed event on Saturday, December 11th.

included a ‘quiet visit time’ to support children with additional needs. The Residents’ Group had even prepared goodie bags for all of the children that included magic Reindeer food and hot chocolate! The event was also a fundraiser in aid of local trust ‘Join Our Boys’ and a raffle with prizes

donated by local businesses, as well as a donation from TORC Sustainable Housing, this event raised a total of €758.00. Congratulations to the Douglas Drive Residents’ Committee on the success of this event – we are looking forward to seeing what you have planned for 2022!

Impressive 4/5 Bedroom Detached Two Storey Family Home presented in excellent condition and set on a mature landscaped site within the sought after suburb of Slevinagee, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town. Considered a rare opportunity to purchase a most select family home in what is considered one of Roscommon Towns premiere residential locations. Accommodation comprises Reception Rooms x 2, Dining Room, Kitchen, Sunroom, Utility, W.C, Office/Ground Floor Bedroom, 4 Bedrooms (1 ensuite) and Family Bathroom. Immediate Enquiries Advised. Viewings by Appointment.

Guide Price: €375,000 Joint Selling Agents: REA Seamus Carthy: 090 66 30001 / 086 8035538 Remax Team Earley: 090 66 26579 / 086 3519492

PSRA Licence: 002782 / 004420

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Business

Roscommon man recognised at Bus Éireann’s annual GEM Awards Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company, has celebrated its employees’ success in 2021 at the annual GEM (Go the Extra Mile) Awards which recognise excellent customer service, community impact, performance and forward-thinking. Bus Éireann’s Athlone depot team was celebrated, with Pauric Wall from Castlerea, Co. Roscommon being recognised with the National GEM Collaboration & Respect Award and Tom Kenny from Edenderry, Co. Offaly winning the National GEM Performance Award. Pauric Wall was recognised for his role as supervisor for school services where he treats both drivers and customers (students and parents) with

respect. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Pauric made sure that school buses were always equipped with enough sanitiser and that school transport was always available. Tom Kenny was awarded for his outstanding work as a mechanic on the Athlone town bus service and local school buses, making sure that Bus Éireann passengers in Westmeath can always be assured of a safe and comfortable journey. In congratulating the winners, Stephen Kent, Bus Éireann Chief Executive Officer said: “2021 has been a landmark year for Bus Éireann and I am proud of our team of dedicated employees all across Ireland who ‘go the extra mile’ for our customers.

8pm closing no compromise for decimated pub trade – VFI The latest Covid-19 restrictions, which will see pubs and restaurants close at 8 pm have been described as “the final gut punch” for the hospitality sector by the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI). The VFI also says that unless Government reintroduces the CRSS for its members, who now face severe restrictions in what should have been the busiest weeks of the year, many businesses will go to the wall. Padraig Cribben, VFI Chief Executive, said: “I guess the Government thinks we should feel grateful for the 8 pm closing given NPHET’s demand for a 5 pm curfew. The reality is this decision will decimate the trade that was already on its knees. Christmas was the one chance we had to recoup some of the losses amassed earlier in the year but we’re now in a situation where staff will lose their jobs and pubs will shut one week before Christmas as they see little point in opening under these conditions. “While Government may see 8 pm as a compromise, the reality is that many pubs don’t open until 5 pm so three hours trading is unworkable for them. Even for pubs that open earlier the majority of their trade takes place at nighttime. “Given the relentless public health message over the past number of weeks to avoid socialising, the public had already cancelled bookings in record numbers. There was no need to further restrict trading hours as our customers are safer in regulated pubs that adhere to guidelines instead of house parties and shebeens. “Our members are left wondering what the plan is for hospitality. These restrictions are meant to be lifted at the end of January but there is literally no guarantee this will happen. Publicans and their staff are trapped by the Government’s inability to plan a pathway out of the crisis that doesn’t involve lockdowns. “Government now has to announce a return of the CRSS for our members who have been pummelled by this news. It’s difficult to overstate the feeling in the trade, publicans and their staff are at the absolute limits of their endurance”.

“I would especially like to recognise Pauric and Tom, who have been awarded specifically for their demonstration of Bus Éireann’s core values. Pauric for his commitment to our customers and for the support he provides to colleagues and Tom for keeping Bus Éireann’s fleet in Westmeath on the road each and every day. “2021 has also been a challenging year and I want to recognise the outstanding contribution of Bus Éireann employees in connecting people with who and what matters to them. The GEM Awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of Bus Éireann employees for our passengers, our services and for their colleagues”.

Pictured (from left to right): Tom Kenny receives the National GEM Performance Award from Sinead Kilkelly, Bus Éireann’s Chief People Officer.

€1.86m local greenway investment a boost for sustainable jobs - Naughten

Local Independent TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the allocation of €1.86 million in funding.

Local Independent TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the allocation of €1.86 million in funding to plan and develop local greenways across counties Roscommon, Longford and Offaly, which he says, have huge potential to promote tourism and create long-term sustainable jobs across the region. As part of this announcement, €1.3 million has been allocated for the Lough Ree Greenway Project to fund an assessment of route options from Athlone to Ballyleague. There is a further €145,000 for the section between Ballyleague and Tarmonbarry, a total greenway route of 68km, that will connect the greenway at Clondra to the greenway at Athlone, where cyclists will also be able to connect up with the greenway to Portumna and Galway City.

Funding of €150,000 has been allocated to Longford County Council to plan the link from Kilnacarrow Bridge to the Clondra to Mullingar greenway, which would link up with the Tarmonbarry to Athlone greenway at Kilnacarrow Bridge. “As Minister for Energy, I worked closely with Longford County Council and Bord na Móna on a project to open up the use of this bridge over the Shannon for cyclists and it is very positive that Minister Eamon Ryan is now following through on this work,” stated Denis Naughten. A further €250,000 has been allocated to develop the concept of a greenway from Carrick-on-Shannon to Lough Key in the north of the county and €15,000 for a route from Athlone to Clonmacnoise in County Offaly, which will then

connect up with the Dublin to Galway greenway in Shannonbridge, creating a cycle loop on both sides of the River Shannon through County Roscommon. “This funding is part of an overall strategy to utilise our bogs, public lands and public access to develop more walking and cycling routes across our region which will benefit local families as well as visitors,” Deputy Naughten added. “Bord na Móna has a land holding of just under 200,000 acres across the country and, as a result, there is a considerable land bank where peat extraction has already ceased, which would naturally flood, and where work on rehabilitation can start including the provision of recreational facilities such as walking and cycling trails,” concluded Denis Naughten.

80% of SMEs in Connacht ‘confident for 2022’

The significant majority of businesses in Connacht (80 per cent) say they are either confident or very confident about their business prospects for the remainder of the year and into 2022 according to a new report from Bibby Financial Services Ireland, a leading provider of financial support and funding solutions to Irish SMEs. The statistics show that 25 per

cent of businesses in Connacht are planning to invest over €50,000 over the next year, with the top three areas of investment identified as: staff training and development (32 per cent); digital technology and IT (32 per cent); and machinery and equipment (36 per cent). Meanwhile, over a third (36 per cent) of SMEs in Connacht are planning to invest in new machin-

ery and equipment over the next year, with 64 per cent identifying new customers as a top area for growth, compared to 46 per cent in Munster and 55 per cent in Leinster. Notwithstanding growing optimism, key fiscal and operational challenges still remain for Connaught’s SMEs. 28 per cent of businesses in the region had to write off bad debt worth

over €14,000 since the pandemic began, while 30 per cent of Connaught companies say it is taking between five and six weeks to get paid. Nationally, the Bibby Financial Services Ireland report also states that almost four out of ten (38 per cent) SMEs say they will require additional funding into 2022 as they look beyond the pandemic and return to growth.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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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

< FOR SALE: 2007 Golf 1.4 petrol, 2 door, one lady owner from new, 95,000 miles. Many extras, absolutely immaculate condition, silver metallic, N.C.T. etc. Tel: 087 2252607

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Paul McStay

CAR FOR SALE

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

DRIVING LESSONS

087 2798704

Submit your Classified online

COUNSELLING

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

VHI and Laya Covered

Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

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

DC Computer Services

Chimney Cleaning

Construction

COUNSELLING

DOGS FOR SALE < DOGS FOR SALE: Beautiful Jack Russel pups, 3 months old. Microchipped and vacinated, ideal Christmas gift, price reasonable. Call 087 0568444

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

FARMING < FOR SALE: Massey Ferguson 35 tractor, in perfect condition. Rebuilt engine fitted in 2015, new brakes done December 2021 with receipts to prove it. Brown Tax Book, twin wheels with it also back end loader with bucket and bale spike. Tel: 087 2325641

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

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

EDT Lessons Available

Telephone:

094 96 20099

Tel: 087 2172281

Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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@ gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

GARDENING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GARDENING

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

• 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.

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193 GATELY GARDENING

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries. Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

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

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Nicola and Donncha O’Farrell, intend to apply for planning permission for development at the site of the former St. Paul’s Church and Churchyard, Cornaseer, Kiltoom, County Roscommon. The development will consist of the the material change of use of a former church, a protected structure, to a single dwelling with the partial reconstruction and material alteration of the former church, the installation of a new waste water treatment system and a new soakaway, the construction of a new pedestrian approach and all associated site 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 the public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Strand Architects Office: Community Hall, Main Street, Baldoyle, Dublin D13 KK55 Electronic mail: mail@strandarchitects.eu Telephone: 086 811 9985/01 839 7411

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for planning permission on behalf of Emmett Glynn to construct new slatted shed together with all associated site works at Drishaghaun West T.d. Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon Mobile: 086 2328484

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

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

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.

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

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

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY 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

Sarah Fleming

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

Tel: 087 2264951

Tullys

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

TUITION

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment.

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

Co Galway H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

Find us on facebook

Christmas LCHL Revision Course l Wed 29th Dec

l Thurs 30th Dec

l Roscommon Town Venue l Booking deposit

required

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI) Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment.

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

TURF AVAILABLE

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

Gift vouchers available.

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

USEFUL SERVICES < 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.

Supplied & Fitted From

WANTED:

FROM

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

€190 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

Phone:

086 2437376

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

Phone Alan on:

Tel: Donal

For all your decorating needs

090 6661635

086 2721812

CONTACT JOHN

087 2683079

(All areas)

Also loads of Peat bedding for livestock (delivered) < TURF: Top quality well seasoned black hopper turf, delivered in large trailer loads also bales of hay for sale. Tel: 086 3903120 or 086 2544294

083 0684011

Contact TERESA for appointment Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

The company that can do all them small jobs

10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone:

TERESA BURKE

at 087 9001212

Roscommon

TOP QUALITY TURF

Registered Reflexologist

Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body.

Pete’s Cabs

USEFUL SERVICES

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

REFLEXOLOGY

Through massage of the feet reflexology can: • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general wellbeing

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Net bags of seasoned firewood only €3 per bag, buy 20 bags get 1 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf only €35 per bag. Half tone bags of Ash/Beech only €35 per bag. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 or Tony 087 7055800 < 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.

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

or Mobile:

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:

087 9657933

or 090 6626752

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie Telephone

087 9795226

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Classifieds

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

Appointments

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES THANKSGIVINGS

Laltec Electrical & PV Solar Contractors Mountpleasant, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon TEL: (090) 66 29675 | Mobile: 087 799 7124 Email: nlally@laltec.ie | Web: www.laltec.ie

Electrical Division:

Electricians & Apprentices Required

PV Solar Division:

General Operatives Required

(Roofing experience an advantage) Please email CV in confidence to: nlally@laltec.ie

HOLLYHOCKS

CRECHE AND PLAYSCHOOL currently have a vacancy for an

EARLY YEARS PRACTITIONER Minimum qualification FETAC Level 5 Applications to: Helen Cosgrove, Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Phone: 087 6995548 E-mail: cosgrap@hotmail.com

DIVILLY TRANSPORT REQUIRE

HGV Artic Driver Please email:

transport@divilly.ie or call 086 2542798

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

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor 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 succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.C.

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. K.E.

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail) O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor 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 (make request). O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times), Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. This prayer must be said for three days and after that the request will be granted (will never fail). This prayer must be published immediately. E.L.

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

Email or call for Sample Pack

NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Holy St. Jude! Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor for all who invoke your special patronage in time of need: to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart, and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. (Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s & 3 Gloria’s.) Publication must be promised. This Novena has never been known to fail. I have had my request granted. Publication promised. M.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.C.

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

FAMILY NOTICES

• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MONTH’S MIND CREHAN Elizabeth (nee Fahy)

Lissavruggy, Newbridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 21/6/1932 – 26/11/2021

LYNCH Thomas (Tommy) Bredagh, Dysart, Roscommon. Who passed away on December 24th 2017 (4th Anniversary)

BRENNAN Trevor

CARTY Frank and Una

Knockskehan, Lecarrow. In loving memory of our dear son Trevor who passed away on the 31st December 2018 (3rd Anniversary)

Ballyleague, Roscommon (8th and 15th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Frank, who passed away on the 19th December 2013 and his wife Una, who passed away on 4th January 2007 We the family of the late Elizabeth Crehan wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our recent sad loss of Elizabeth. Sincere thanks to all who visited Elizabeth in her final days and for their support to us in doing so. Due to Covid restrictions, not all who would like to have seen her before she departed were able to do so but we appreciate your efforts and intent. To all who sent comforting messages, offered prayers, lit candles, rang and offered kind words and support during those difficult days, we thank you very much. To all who attended the Funeral Home, mass and Elizabeth’s burial, thank you for sharing her final journey with her and us. Support carries you through grief and we certainly felt that support. Thanks to Fr. Louis for helping us to organise Elizabeth’s Resurrection Mass and for making it so personal and spiritual. To Sarah Crehan for the heavenly music and singing which added so much to the ceremony and Eoin Kenny who sang to welcome Elizabeth into the church on the evening before. To all the extended family and neighbours who took part in the mass both reading and saying prayers. Elizabeth would have loved that you were able to be there and do so. To Michael and Evelyn Cunningham for your professionalism in management of the funeral arrangements. For the care and respect shown and every effort to facilitate the family’s wishes throughout the funeral, we thank you most sincerely. For facilitating Elizabeth’s final journey around Lissavruggy, we cannot thank you enough. This was a very poignant journey as the road was lined with neighbours and friends along the way. Thanks to all who showed their respect and offered prayers along the route. Thanks to the gravediggers (neighbours and relatives) for preparing Elizabeth’s final resting place so carefully. A beautiful and important ritual that she would very much appreciate. Thanks to Sean Gavin for facilitating use of The Shiven Rovers Club Room for refreshments after the funeral and to Francie Connolly and staff for the beautiful food provided. Thanks to Milands Garden Centre, Mountbellew for the beautiful fresh and silk flower arrangements prepared. To the staff of the A & E Department and St. Francis Ward, Portiuncula Hospital, also Helen Ely and the Palliative Care Team who cared for Elizabeth in her final days when at her most vulnerable. The kindness, respect and professionalism shown was so appreciated. To Caroline, Stella and all the staff past and present of Central Park Nursing Home, Clonbern, a heartfelt thank you for the excellent care, love and friendship shown to Elizabeth during her 6 years with you. She loved the companionship, jokes and laughs shared. You made her life better in her final years. Thanks to all the doctors who cared for Elizabeth throughout the years especially Dr. Martin Daly, Dr Miriam Mangan and Dr. Boo who showed such respect, understanding and patience in attending to her needs. To Brid Hannon, her home help when living at home in Lissavruggy. Thanks for your company as well as the help you provided to her. To all who have offered condolences on RIP.ie, sent mass cards, mass enrolements, floral tributes, we thank you all so much. To all of Elizabeth’s extended family, neighbours and friends who visited her regularly over the years both at home and in the nursing home, thank you for your kindness always. Elizabeth very much appreciated your visits. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions. Month’s Mind Mass for the happy repose of Elizabeth’s soul will be held in St. Patrick’s Church Newbridge on Sunday, December 26th at 11.30am. Ar Dheis De go raibh a hanam.

In loving memory of Tommy, who died 24th December 2017 A tribute of love to a partner so dear, so close to my heart each day of the year. I will always have memories to cherish and hold of a wonderful partner more precious than gold.

Very sadly missed and never forgotten your partner Teresa.

McDONNELL Irene Whitepark, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

Trevor, on that dark December night, little did we know that God was going to call your name. It broke our hearts to lose you as we said our last goodbyes. Christmas is not the same now as you watch us from above. It seems so unfair that you are not here to share the laughter that you so loved and enjoyed. The months have now turned into years and your memory has become part of our daily lives. As we sadly miss you along lifes ways, no longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Loved and sadly missed always, Mammy and Daddy. ~~~~~~~~~~~ In loving memory of our dear brother and uncle Trevor The loneliness is painful, it breaks my heart to see that you are up in Heaven and no longer here with me but I know you will be happy now up where the angels sing a place where you are free to go and spread your wings. You will never be forgotten, every day I think of you you were in my thoughts yesterday and you’ll be in tomorrows too. Until the day we meet again, I’ll miss you everyday keep shining bright in Heaven so you can light my way.

Loved and sadly missed always Sonya, Ciaran, Senan and Caoimhe. ~~~~~~~~~~~ In loving memory of our dear brother and uncle Trevor Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. I’m sending a dove to Heaven, with a parcel on its wings. Be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs, to say how much I miss you, and to send you all my love. I hold you close within my heart, and there you will remain, to walk with me throughout my life, until me meet again.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Malachy, daughter Caroline, sons Sean, Malachy, Cyril, Adrian and Raymond, daughtersin-law Sharon, Lisa, and Teresa (who passed away in October 2021) and her grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 2nd January at 10am.

Loved and sadly missed Declan, Edel and Fionn. ~~~~~~~~~~~ You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of Gold. You left the sweetest memories this world could ever hold. A smile can hide our sadness, tears can be wiped away, but the heartache of losing you will never go away.

You know that we will always be with you, even if we don’t see each other for months or years. Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in thee. Sometimes our lives are touched by people who are so special that we are happier just because we know them, and you were both very special people.

Sadly missed by family and friends. Anniversary Mass in the Holy Rosary Church, Ballyleague on Sunday, 2nd January 2022 at 11am.

ROGERS Pat & Angela Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of our dear father and mother, Pat and Angela Rogers, who passed away on the 3rd January 1999 and the 19th December 2008 Loving memories never die as years roll on and days pass by, in our hearts a memory is kept of the ones we love and will never forget.

Always remembered by Pat, Marie and family, Kevin, Mairead and family, Jackie, Willie and family, Niall and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 1st January at 7pm.

DORAN Denis & Eithne Acres House, Roscommon

Loved you Trevor. Nanna xxxxx ~~~~~~~~~~~ Just a prayer from the family who loved you just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever because we thought the world of you.

Remembered by Granny Brennan, aunties Margaret, Ann, Elizabeth, Patricia and their families. Anniversary Mass at 11.30am on Sunday 2nd January 2022 in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow .

THANKSGIVINGS UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. M.C.

(10th Anniversary) In loving memory of Denis (Denny), who died on 15th January 2012

(2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Eithne who died on 4th January 2020

They lived and laughed, and loved and left, but their memories will live forever

Loved and missed by all your family.

THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor 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 succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.C.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MULLEN Larry Tonlagee, Roscommon 17th Anniversary - 12th December 2021 (Who passed away on the 12th December 2004) R.I.P.

We also remember with great sadness Padraig, who died on 20th June 1984. Rest In Peace. They say that memories are golden well maybe that is true, but we never wanted memories we only wanted you.

LYNCH Thomas (Tommy) Bredagh, Dysart, Roscommon. Who passed away on December 24th 2017 (3rd Anniversary)

LYNCH Bernadette Bredagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (27th Anniversary)

Sadly missed by Kathleen and all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Sunday, 26th December at 11am.

GALLAGHER Alan Ballinagard Road, Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

A ray of sunshine came and went, a beautiful treasure only lent, In God’s keeping quietly sleeps this wonderful son and brother we loved so much but could not keep

Remembered by his devoted mother Maura, his father Peter, sister Olive and brothers Brian and Kevin, nephews and nieces. Mass offered

Ballinlough Quarter, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary - 21st December)

In loving memory of Bernadette, who passed away on the 3rd November 1994 R.I.P. A smile for all, a heart of gold, one of the best the world could hold. Never selfish, always kind, these are the memories you left behind.

Loved and missed by sons Thomas and Gerard and daughters Yvonne and Valerie. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Sunday, 26th December at 10am.

CASLIN Albert (5th Anniversary) - Treasured memories of dear Albert, late of Lisroyan, Strokestown, who passed away on Christmas Day 2016.

KIERNAN Mona and Felix Jnr Who died 27th December 2008 and 4th June 2006 (13th and 15th Anniversaries)

Nothing on Earth can ever replace the sound of your voice. No verse, no flowers, no tear can say how much we miss you everyday.

God bless you mother and father in your graves God keep you in His care, and may He listen to my heart and hear my fervent prayer. May you have peace and rest at last, from every care and woe, and may you sleep in comfort from the winds and rains and snow.

Sadly missed and always loved by your sons Joe, Martin and Declan, daughter Fiona, grandchildren and family.

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

Everyday is some small way memories of ye come our way. Though absent ye are always near, still missed, still loved and very dear.

Remembered always by their family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 2nd January at 10am in Donamon Castle.

LEONARD Patrick and Elizabeth Bracklin, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

Noreen’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town on Monday, January 3rd at 11am.

“Quietly today your memory we treasure, You are never more than a thought away” Will those who think of Martin today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Saturday, 25th December Christmas Day at 10am.

Cloghan, Mount Talbot, Roscommon. Who passed away on 27th December 2020

Milltown, Castleplunkett (23rd and 11th Anniversaries)

(2nd Anniversary)

GILLERAN Martin

NAUGHTON Jack

LYONS Joe and Mary

MORRIS (nee Togher) Noreen

Remembering our mother Noreen Morris of Carrowroe, Roscommon, who died on January 5th, 2020, and who is missed every day.

087 6758874

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

Anniversary Mass will be offered at a later date.

(Patrick 38th Anniversary) 11th September 1983

(Elizabeth 13th Anniversary) 24th December 2008

Mary Leonard Moody (5th Anniversary) 19th August 2016

Michelle Moody (23rd Anniversary) 14th August 1998

St. Joseph’s, Kilteevan (24th Anniversary)

Loved and missed every day by your loving wife Vera and children David, Sinéad, Dermot, Aoife and Siobhán, son-in-law Martin, daughterin-law Rosemary and adored grandchildren Helena, Samuel Alannah and Cillian. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 26th December in Strokestown Parish Church, at 11.30 am.

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS CONTACT HAZEL

So sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Lena and all his children and grandchildren. Mass has been offered.

FITZMAURICE James

Treasured memories of our dear parents, Paddy and Elizabeth and our sister Mary and niece Michelle who have gone to their eternal home in Heaven. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain. To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

We also remember John Colfer, deceased of the Carroll, Quigley and Leonard families. Loved and remembered always by your family. xxxxx

On the First Anniversary of Jack’s passing, we his family would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us and showed kindness and support on the loss of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Thanks to all who visited our home, to our lovely neighbours and friends who provided comfort, food and refreshments over Jack’s last days and after, it was very much appreciated. A heartfelt thank you to all who sent Mass Cards, phone calls, text messages and left messages of condolences, we thank friends and neighbours who lined the roadside or who stood outside the church to pay their respects to Jack on his final journey. The support even from a distance meant so much to our family. A special word of thanks to Dr. Martin Daly and all at the Ballygar Health Centre, you were all so good and caring to Jack down through the years and up to his final days. You all are amazing and we will be forever grateful. Added thanks to the Galway Prostate Care team especially Ger Boyle who looked after Jack with such care and attention when he attended the clinic. Thanks to the Roscommon Pallative Care Team for the care Jack got in his last couple of days, its much appreciated. Also a word of thanks to Ada, Margaret and all at Ballygar Medical Hall, you were all so amazing to Jack over the years, thank you. A special word of thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for his support and comfort to Jack and all the family, the days before and after Jack’s passing. Thanks for the beautiful Mass and kind words it meant so much to our family and we will be forever grateful. To David Moran, thank you for your professionalism, guidance and support throughout our sad time. To Bernie Moran for the lovely singing, it enhanced the Mass so beautifully. To the grave diggers who prepared Jack’s final resting place with such care and attention, thank you all so much. Special thanks to those who Jack befriended in his life, thanks for always being there, especially his neighbours in Cloghan, who he had a great fondness for and they worked and helped each other always. Helping people was Jack’s motive in life, he was greatly satisfied by this. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually we trust you will accept this acknowledgment as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. The sacrifice of the Holy Mass has being offered for all your intentions. Jack’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Friday, 31st December at 10 o’clock in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads. May Jack Rest In Peace.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES GRADY Padraig Carnamadda, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

KEAVENY (Nee Mullaney) Margaret Church St., Glenamaddy Who passed away on 29th December 2015 (6th Anniversary)

RYAN Ann (Nee McAndrew) Late of Cloonfaughna, Glinsk, Co. Galway and Belmullet, Co. Mayo who sadly passed away on the 3rd of January 2021 (1st Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 27th December 2015 Padraig no words I write, can ever say how much I miss you every day. As time goes by loneliness grows - how much I miss you nobody knows. I think of you in silence, I ofter speak your name, all I have are memories and photos in a frame. No one knows my sorrow or no one sees me cry, but the love I have for you will never die.

Loving you always and missing you more each day Padraig, from your heartbroken wife Eileen. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Daddy, they say there is a reason, they say time will heal but neither time or reason will change the way we feel. Gone are the days we used to share but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memories will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows.

Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, we who love you will never forget.

Dearly missed by Donnie, Vernon, Macrina, Coman and their families. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy on Saturday, 1st January 2022 at 7pm.

RYAN Philip Roscommon Town (33rd Anniversary)

Loving and missing you every day from your heartbroken children Maireád, Gearóid and Shóna. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Padraig death changes everything time changes nothing. We still miss the sound of your voice you help, your advice and above all your presence. We miss you as much today as we did the day you died.

Always remembered never forgotten by your brothers Willie and Joe and the extended Grady and Whyte families. Padraig’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Tuesday, 28th December 2021 at 7pm.

In loving memory of Philip, who died on the 26th December 1988 R.I.P. Many memories keep you near as time unfolds another year out of our lives you may have gone but in our hearts you will always live on.

Loved and remembered always by Margaret and family. Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 1st January 2022 at 11am.

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HARTE Bernadette (Bernie) Roxboro, Derrane, Roscommon In loving memory of Bernie who passed away on January the 3rd 2021 (1st Anniversary)

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile if I could have you back for just a little while, then we could sit and talk again just like we used to do, you always meant so very much and always will do too. The fact that you’re no longer here will always come with pain but you’re forever in our hearts until we meet again. They say there is a reason, they say that time will heal, but neither time nor reason, will change the way we feel. For no one knows the heartache, that lies behind our smiles, no one knows how many times, we have broken down and cried. We want to tell you something, so there won’t be any doubt, you were a wonderful wife, mum and granny, and so hard to live without.

Loved and remembered dearly by her husband Anthony, her children Jason, Lorraine, Caroline, Jackie, Kieran and Robert. Sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law and all her grandchildren. Ann’s First Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday, 2nd of January 2022 in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk at 11am.

HANNON James (Sonny) Cloverhill, Roscommon Who passed away on the 29th December 2019. (2nd Anniversary)

Time passes memories stay, quietly remembered every day. Will those who think of James today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Fondly remembered by his wife and family. Masses offered.

Lovingly remembered by Eddie, Karen, Marie, Ashling and Dominik, grandsons Theo and Benji.

Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there, the gates of memories will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows, with tender love and deep regret, we who know you will never forget.

Sadly missed and always remembered by Jane, James and Darragh. Anniversary Mass at 11.30am on Sunday, 2nd January 2022 in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

FLANAGAN Gerry Leitrim, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon May he Rest in Peace (20th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Gerry, who passed away on the 25th December 2001 Twenty years have passed since that sad day you closed your eyes and went away. You left us so suddenly without a fuss and broke the hearts of all of us. You’re not just a memory or part of the past, you’re ours to remember as long as life lasts. You always had a smile to share time to give and time to care. Your memory is our greatest treasure, to have, to hold, to keep forever. You taught us so many things, you were loving kind and true. But you never taught us how to cope, with the pain of losing you.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his family. Masses offered.

In loving memory of

DALY Marie Lisnamult, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

Mother You can only have one mother, patient, kind and ture, no other friend in all the world, will be the same to you. When other friends forsake you, to mother you will return, for all her loving kindness, she asks nothing in return. As we look upon her picture, sweet memories we recall, of a face so full of sunshine, and a smile for one and all. Sweet Jesus, take this message to our dear mother up above, tell her how we miss her and give her all our love.

Sadly missed by Niall, Martina, Ian, Jon, James, Daire, Leah and Mikey. xx Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town on Friday, December 31st at 11am.

GLEESON (nee Kelly) Teresa Boher, Roscommon

Who passed away peacefully on the 2nd of January 2021.

We, the family of the late Teresa Gleeson wish to express our heartful thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us on the sad loss of our beloved Mother and Granny. Thanks to all who sent mass cards, letters, phone calls, text messages, sent flowers and left messages on RIP.ie. Your kind and supportive words and actions gave us great comfort. We wish to thank everyone who lined the roads and streets from her home to Sacred Heart Church and onto her final resting place in St. Coman’s Cemetery. Our sincere thanks to Dr. Claire Quinn for taking such good care of Teresa over the years, to all the staff in Roscommon Home Services and Cenira for minding Teresa in her home until the day she passed. A special word of thanks to Fr. Kevin Fallon for celebrating a beautiful Funeral Mass. Thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth for their professionalism in arranging Teresa’s funeral, the grave diggers who prepared Teresa’s final resting place and to Enya for her beautiful singing. To those who helped in any way, your contribution made our loss more bearable. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. Forever loved and missed by her loving sons, Eamonn, Michéal, James, David and daughter Mary, her brother Paddy Kelly, daughters-in-law Mary, Martha, Catriona and Monica, son-in-law Jim, grandchildren Eamon, Fergal, Cáit, Cathal, Paul, Rónán, Mark, Theresa, Adrian, Conor, Emma, Kate and Shane and her great-grandchildren Evie, Saoirse, Owen and Shay. Teresa’s first Anniversary mass will be celebrated in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town on January 1st at 7pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

Sports PEOPLE

10 local sporting highlights from 2021 This week, in the final Sports People of 2021, Seamus Duke takes a look back over the past year and some of the local sporting highlights…

Roscommon U-20s at Croker

The Roscommon U-20s footballers provided GAA fans in the county with a memorable championship campaign which culminated in a narrow defeat to Offaly in the All-Ireland which was played in front of 22,000 people at Croke Park. Liam Tully led his charges to a Connacht final win over Mayo in Castlebar as well as a thrilling extra-time win over Down in the All-Ireland semi-final in Cavan before losing out to the Faithful County by 1-14 to 1-11 at headquarters last August.

Aoife O’Rourke’s Olympic heroics

Castlerea boxer, Aoife O’Rourke, gave an impressive performance during her debut Olympic Games in Tokyo this year. Pic: Sportsfile

The €600 Skyace, ridden by Jody McGarvey, won the Grade 1 Mares’ Novices Hurdle at Fairyhouse for a local syndicate in 2021.

The 2019 European Middleweight champion from Castlerea qualified for the 2020 Olympics by defeating Poland’s Elzbieta Wojik in Paris last June. O’Rourke was handed a tough draw in Tokyo which saw her pitted against number two seed Qian Li from China. Following another very impressive showing, the Castlerea fighter lost out on an unanimous points decision. He can now set her sights on another Olympics appearance in Paris 2024.

Pádraig Pearses’ provincial assault

Having broken their Roscommon SFC duck in 2019, Pádraig Pearses repeated the feat in 2021, beating neighbours Clann na nGael in the final. Pat Flanagan’s men now have another Connacht final appearance to look forward to having dispatched Galway champions Mountbellew-Moylough in a tetchy semifinal. Mayo champions Knockmore now await the Roscommon champions in early January.

Clash of the Parish ash!

Not too many observers would have predicted a senior hurling final pairing of Athleague and Tremane in 2021 but that’s exactly what happened as the two teams from the same parish set up one of the most interesting deciders in decades. Tremane, with Niall Kilroy on fire, were on top early on but crucial goals from Robbie Fallon, Eoin Ward and Cormac Kelly turned the match in Athleague’s favour and they held out to win their 20th title by 3-12 to 0-15.

A teenage golfing sensation

With all that she has achieved so far it’s hard to believe that Olivia Costello is still only 13-years-old. The Roscommon Golf Club members had a memorable year, the highlight

Roscommon senior champions Pádraig Pearses will be hoping for more reasons to celebrate as they prepare to take on Mayo champions Knockmore in the Connacht Club final in early January. Pic: Mick McCormack

of which was reaching the semi-finals of the Irish Close Championship in Ballybunion. Olivia also finished in the top ten at the Leinster Woman’s Championships (3rd), Irish Girls’ Close Championship (7th), Munster Women’s Open (4th), and the Leinster Girls’ Championships (6th). Olivia is already part of the Irish girls elite squad and her graph is only going in one direction.

Daire continues cycle of success

Having finished 2020 at the top of the Cycling Ireland rankings, Daire Feeley was quick off the mark in 2021, winning three of his first six races and turning heads in the Noel Teggert Memorial (Banbridge Cycling Club). The All-Human VeloRevolution rider also took victories in the John Holian Memorial and Athenry Grand Prix before finishing a very impressive second in the Irish National Road Race Championships, narrowly edged out by Ryan Mullen. The 25-year-old is also a performance endurance coach and works as a sports tutor with Roscommon Sports Partnership.

Ballymoe cyclist Richael Timothy was part of the Team Ireland team which travelled to Tokyo to compete in the Paralympic Games last September. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Timothy at Tokyo Paralympics

Carty continues to shine

Clubs on FAI Junior Cup run

Sky’s the limit for local horse

When Ballymoe woman, Richael Timothy, suffered an acquired brain injury in 2016 it only increased her desire to compete in sport at the top level. The former Roscommon Ladies footballer and international soccer player turned her attentions to cycling and by the start of 2021 was ranked 8th in the world on the road and 4th on track. She travelled to Tokyo to compete in the Paralympics in September where she performed brilliantly and set a number of personal best times.

Roscommon & District Football League clubs, Boyle Celtic and Ballinasloe Town, are still going strong in the FAI Junior Cup. Both sides have reached the last 32, with ties to take place in early January. Boyle Celtic, who reached the semi-finals of this competition in 2017, will travel to Waterford to take on Villa FC while Ballinasloe have a home tie against Mayo side, Ballyheane.

Following the Rugby World Cup in 2019, Kiltoom’s Jack Carty seemed to become Ireland’s forgotten man. But the former Roscommon minor footballer is now playing the best rugby of his career and the pressure is increasing on Andy Farrell and his selectors to recall him to the international fold. A string of excellent displays and a number of new records for Connacht should have Carty back in the frame for the Six Nations next year.

‘Skyace’ was the ultimate ‘rags to riches’ story in 2021. The horse which was bought for €600 by a local syndicate which features former St. Brigid’s and Roscommon footballer, Cathal McHugh, won the €100,000 Grade 1 Mares’ Novices Hurdle at Fairyhouse on Grand National day. Trained by ‘Shark’ Hanlon, the horse also ran in Cheltenham and Puchestown and the owners are looking forward to more success in 2022.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

SportsPeople Soccer Results

RDFL Premier Division Kilkerrin United 5 Castlerea Celtic 1 RDFL Division One Shiven Rovers 2 Ballinasloe Town B 5 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United 4 Ballaghaderreen FC B 2

South Roscommon swimmer plays his part in Abu Dhabi

The Carrick-on-Shannon RFC U-14s made history at Creggs Rugby Club recently when they became the first ever youth team from Carrick RFC to lay claim to a Connacht rugby title. Pic credit: Mark Uniacke Photography

Carrick U-14s make history in Creggs! The Carrick-on-Shannon RFC U-14s made history at Creggs Rugby Club recently when they became the first ever youth team from Carrick RFC to lay claim to a Connacht rugby title.

Creggs RFC Report

Carrick earned their place in the history books when the became Connacht B League champions, beating Monivea 29-0 with a scintillating display of rugby. Carrick team: Conor Kelly, Luke

Charles, Rian Costello, Charlie Slevin, Jamie Kiernan, Jack Moolick (captain), Oran Beirne, Charlie McDermott, Joshua Keville, Alan Bryan, Cody O’Brien, Sean McGreevy, Iarlaith Martin, Alastair

Hewson, Ronan Connolly. Subs: Ciaran Haudt, Aidan McNiff, Matthew Ffrench, Jack Prior, Alex Copley, Sean Gaffney, Richie Gavican, Jack Beirne, Paul Mullaney and James Lynch.

Former Coláiste Chiarán student, Robbie Powell, was part of the Ireland Men’s 4 x 200m Freestyle Relay team which swam under seven minutes for the first time on Sunday afternoon last at the FNA World Short Course Swimming Championships in Abu Dhabi. The south Roscommon swimmer was part of the quartet which took 21 seconds off the previous Irish senior record to become the first Irish team to qualify for a World Championships final in 28 years. Powell, who swam the final leg, was joined by Jack McMillan, Jordan Sloan and Fran McGeever as they finished sixth in the final, shaving a further three seconds off the Irish record in the process to create a new record of 6:59.54.

THE GAIN LINE

Girls claim another Connacht title for Creggs Connacht U-16 Division One League Final: Ballina RFC 22 Creggs RFC 38. The U-16 Girls claimed a second Connacht title in just two weeks for Creggs when they overcame Ballina in the final of their Division One league in Ballina last Friday night. In what was a great advertisement for women’s rugby, Creggs held a 15-10 lead following an end-to-end first half. Sarah Purcell opened the scoring with a try in the corner following some brilliant carrying from Julie Ann Fahy, Darcey Farnon and Isabelle Quinn. The lead, however, was shortlived as a knock-on from the restart gifted Ballina an attacking scrum and they powered over to level matters. Siofra Hession restored Creggs’ lead just two minutes later following an off-load from Purcell. Hession converted the try herself to extend the Creggs lead to 12-5. More quick-thinking from Ballina brought them back into the game on 14 minutes when a quick tap penalty saw them cross for their second try of the evening. Creggs were always in control of the scoreboard however and Purcell once again used the hand-off to great effect as she went over in the corner once more. Creggs lead at the break,

Connacht Champions! The Creggs U-16 Girls who won the Connacht League Division One Final in Ballina last Friday.

17-10. The second half saw the visitors defend resolutely against a strong Ballina outfit with Shauna McDermott, Elizabeth Gory and Grace Mannion especially prominent. Creggs stood firm in the opening exchanges and were rewarded with a scrum near half-way. Jemima Adams Verling picked from the base, broke a couple of tackles and ran clear to score under the posts. Hession added the extras to give the maroon and white a commanding 24-10 lead. Ballina refused to roll over in front of their strong home

support and they set up a tense finish after 15 minutes of the second half with a try to reduce the deficit to 24-15. Creggs, however, weren’t to be denied and a great run from Shauna Walsh set up Siofra Hession, who went over from close-range to stretch the lead to 31-15. The game was all but wrapped up with just nine minutes left when Siofra Hession blocked a Ballina clearance and pounced on the bouncing ball to score. Hession converted the try to give Creggs a 38-15 lead heading into the final few minutes. There was a consolation score

for Ballina with the last play of the game, which was no more than their performance deserved. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the travelling party as they ran out 38-22 winners to claim the Connacht Division One title. Adult Rugby While Creggs take a break from competitive rugby, the Development team will take on Claremorris RFC in a friendly game in Creggs at 8 pm this evening (Wednesday, December 22nd). Training continues for all adult teams on Tuesday and Friday nights in Creggs.

€5k diamond ring up for grabs in Creggs RFC monthly draw! The Creggs RFC December/ Christmas Monthly Draw will take place on January 6th, and the fabulous unique prize this month is a beautiful certified €5,000 diamond ring. The exciting new fundraiser for the club’s dressing-rooms and gym offers great prizes for each of the next four months as well as a top prize of €50,000. Buying a €20 ticket today means you will be in for all of the five remaining draws including the top prize of €50,000 or a Toyota Hi Lux Invincible or Volkswagen AllElectric ID.4 SUV. Tickets can be purchased at www. win50000euro.com.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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16 days left to ‘Win a House in Sligo’

(News from local golf clubs)

Roscommon

There’s just 16 days left to Win a House in Sligo with Shannon Gaels and Curry GAA Clubs. One lucky winner will walk away with the top prize or €300,000 in cash following the club’s draw on January 9th. Tickets are selling fast, don’t miss out on this opportunity of a lifetime. Get your ticket today at www. winahouseinsligo.ie. A huge thank you to our business sponsors, FRS Fencing (Gold), Joe Simon Hardware, Boyle (Silver) and and Cryans Quayside Hotel, Carrickon-Shannon (Silver) for their support.

Brian Feely won the Men’s competition on December 5th with 37 points while Michael Sharkey (34) was runner-up. Liam Bagnell was the winner on December 12th with 36 points with Brian Feeley in second place, just one point behind. M. Dolan was the winner in last Thursday’s Men’s Senior competition with 36 points. Other results: Cat 1: O. Dempsey (35); Cat 2: J. Cunningham (34); Cat 3: J. Gogan (34); Over 80: J. Finn (35). Deuces: M. Dolan, S. Benedetti, D. Mahon, S. Mulryan, T. Gilleran, G. Keegan, J. Earley. H. Earley won the Ladies’ Senior competition while M. O’Keeffe was runner-up and E. Bruen and N. McDonald were third and fourth respectively. Happy Christmas to all our members and stay safe during this time.

Boyle

FRS Fencing: Eoghan Mollahan, Richard O’Dowd and Alan O’Dowd pictured with Colm Kelly (Chairperson, Shannon Gaels GAA).

Challenge match in aid of Pieta House The Roscommon Intermediate Ladies footballers will take on Roscommon Junior champions St. Barry’s in a challenge match on Thursday, December 30th in aid of Pieta House. The match will take place at 7

Shor t putts

pm in Tarmonbarry with proceeds from the gate going towards the mental health charity. Roscommon LGFA also held a combined draw following last Sunday’s Connacht Intermediate final in Carrick-on-Shannon. The

winners receive €350 each with €150 going to their clubs. The winners were: Tiana and Orla Kelly, Kilglass Gaels; Agnes and Pat Finan, Éire Óg; Gerry Guckian, St. Michael’s; Cara Shine, Clann na nGael.

Adam Daly won the club’s Christmas Bonanza competition with 23 points. Jonathan Egan was second with 21, while Sean Heslin won the gross prize and Owen Garvin was third. Gerry O’Dowd was nearest the pin and Daly also had the longest drive. The 9-hole Stableford on December 12th was won by Mark Feehan with John McGuinn in second place. The club hopes to play the Christmas Scramble on December 27th at 12.30 pm, depending on weather and Covid-19 restrictions.

Athlone Athlone will be running a number of festive competitions this year: Men’s and Ladies’ 12-hole on December 26th and 27th; 12-hole Scramble on December 28th; Men’s and Ladies’ 12-hole Open from December 29th to January 3rd. Last Thursday’s AWGS competition was won by P. Burke with 24 points. Other results: Class 1: V. Connaire (23); Class 2: M. Cleary (23); Class 3: P J Lenehan (19); Class 4 (Veterans): M. Gibson (21). The final outing is December 23rd and the Wednesday golfers resume on January 13th. The Ladies’ 12-hole competition was won by Anna Walsh (26 points) while Cathryn Mannion was second with

22. Anne Egan Farrell (22) was third and Jean McGowan (20) was fourth. The 97 Club competition was won by Eleanor Larkin last week with 23 points while Mary Jo O’Farrell (23) was second and Chris Fuery (23) was third. Meanwhile, the Men’s 12-hole competition was won by Tom O’Reilly with 30 points. Other results: Cat. A: Shane Connaughton (27); Cat. B: Adrian Sherlock (29); Cat. C: Aengus O’Rourke (28); Cat. D: Oran Fahey (27). There was a very enjoyable four person Scramble for all club volunteers on Saturday last. The weather held up and teams enjoyed a bit of fun and a nice meal afterwards. Noirin O’Rourke, Margaret Geoghegan, Kevin Sheehy and Joe Carney were the winners while Frances McGettigan, Mary McHale, Gerry Brennan and Aidan Byrne finished runners-up. Alacoque O’Connor, Anthony O’Connor, Tony Reape and Aidan O’Driscoll finished in third place. The President, Chairman, Ladies and Men’s Captains would like to wish each and every member a very happy and peaceful Christmas. Their wish is that everyone takes special care so as to reduce the risk of Covid infection.

Carrick It is with deep sadness that we learned of the sad passing of our former club Captain Tom Hughes of Shannon Lodge, Carrick-On- Shannon and formerly of Mountbellew, Co. Galway. We would like to extend our sympathies to Tom’s wife Breege, daughter Nicola, son-in-law Etienne, grandsons, Thibaud and Aubin, sisters Sheila, Kathleen, Ann and Joan, brothers Michael, Paddy, John, Gerry, and Willie, and their families. May he rest in peace. The club AGM will take place on Sunday, January 9th at 5.30 pm. A further email will be issued 14 days in advance of the AGM in relation to any motions to be brought. The winner of week five of the Gent’s Winter League was Frank Duffy with 20 points. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our members for their brilliant support over 2021. We hope you and your families have a very enjoyable Christmas and we look forward to seeing you in 2022 for another great golfing year.

GAA Results

Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll presents the Roscommon Senior Schools ‘B’ shield to Roscommon Community College captain Ryan Conlon following his side’s 5-14 to 1-10 win over Elphin Community College at the Connacht Centre of Excellence last Thursday.

Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll presents Aaron Bracken of Roscommon CBS with the Roscommon Juvenile A FC trophy following their 5-13 to 5-8 win over Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown on Thursday evening last in the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence.

AFL Division Five Final Kilmore 3-7 Fuerty 1-12 U-20 FC Division One Final St. Brigid’s 2-10 Pádraig Pearses 2-7 U20 FC Division Two Final Strokestown 1-8 St. Dominic’s 1-6 U-20 FC Division Three Final Kilmore/Shannon Gaels 1-15 Western Gaels 1-11 St. Faithleach’s 2-12 St. Michael’s 2-9 U-21 Hurling Championship Semi-Final Pádraig Pearses 6-11 Roscommon Gaels 1-3

Fixtures Thursday, December 23rd O’Rourke Cup Division One Final At Woodmount: Roscommon Gaels v Pádraig Pearses. 8 pm

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Ladies suffer defeat in Connacht final LGFA league fixtures for 2022

TG4 Connacht LGFA Intermediate Championship Final Leitrim 2-11 Roscommon 2-8 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s hopes of ending 2021 with silverware were well and truly dashed by Leitrim last Sunday as they were the deserved winners of this very entertaining provincial decider which was delayed from earlier in the year. Played at Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada in perfect conditions, Roscommon were ultra competitive in a thrilling first half, but they fell away badly in the second half. In fact, they only managed one score in the second period, a superb goal from by far their best player, Laura Fleming, in the 40th minute. Short a number of players, Roscommon were far too dependent on Laura Fleming throughout. The St. Ciaran’s player turned in a barnstorming performance, scoring 2-4, but she needed more assistance on the day especially in the second half when Leitrim started to dominate. In fact, were it not for two fantastic saves from Helena Cummins in the final five minutes, Leitrim would have won this match by an even bigger margin. Leitrim opened up a 0-3 to 0-1 lead by the 10th minute but three superb points from Fleming saw Roscommon lead by one by the 13th minute. Then we saw two excellent goals within a minute. First Laura O’Dowd blasted home

The Roscommon players stand for the national anthem ahead of last Sunday’s Connacht LGFA TG4 Intermediate Championship Final against Leitrim at Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada, Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

for Leitrim after a great pass from Siomha Quinn and on the restart Roscommon swept downfield and Fleming finished brilliantly. Points from Lisa O’Rourke and Rosie Lennon stretched the Roscommon lead to three by the 17th minute. But Leitrim hit back with a Michelle Guckian point from a free, and when Laura O’Dowd scored their second goal in the 29th minute the home side were ahead again. Rebecca Finan’s free in injurytime ensured that the sides went in level at the break: Leitrim 2-5 Roscommon 1-8. Leitrim upped the ante in the second half and Roscommon started to struggle. Michelle Guckian pointed a free in the 31st minute but

‘Player of the Match’ Laura Fleming is put under pressure by Charlene Tyrell during last Sunday’s Connacht LGFA TG4 Intermediate Championship Final against Leitrim at Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada, Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

against the run of play Roscommon went back into the lead in the 40th minute when Laura Fleming produced a contender for the goal of the year with a bullet into the top corner of the Leitrim net. But it was a false dawn for Roscommon. Michelle Guckian was an increasing influence on the game for Leitrim and subs Amy Fowley and Megan McGovern were playing well. Leitrim were level again by the 45th minute, and points from Guckian and Megan McGovern put them ahead as they dominated the exchanges. Helena Cummins made two fantastic saves, both from the boot of sub Leah Fox, to keep Roscommon in the game but a late Michelle Guckian point

sealed the deal for Leitrim, and deservedly so too. Teams and Scorers Leitrim: Michelle Monaghan; Eimhin Quinn, Sinead Tighe, Siobhan McCartan; Carla Le Guen, Claire Owens, Marina Gray; Charlene Tyrrell, Aisling Quinn; Roisin McHugh (0-2), Vivenne Egan (0-1), Laura O’Dowd (2-1); Siomha Quinn, Michelle Guckian (0-5, 4 frees), Shaylin Ward. Subs: Megan McGovern (0-1) for Quinn (27), Roisin Fowley (0-1) for Ward (29), Mary Alice Maguire for McCartan (h/t), Leah Fox for Egan (39), Carmel McGovern for S Quinn (51), Elise Bruen for McHugh (62). Roscommon: Helena Cummins;

The fixtures for Roscommon Ladies’ National Football League Division 3A campaign were revealed this week with Ollie Lennon’s charges set to get underway in February. The Rossies face a trip to Down in their opening game on February 13th before making another long journey to Louth on February 20th. Roscommon finish with a home game against Sligo on March 6th. The top two teams in each section will compete in the semi-finals on March 20th and the Division Three final will take place on April 3rd.

Roisin Wynne, Sinead Kenny, Niamh McNamara; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Rachel Brady, Saoirse Timon; Laura Fleming (2-4), Lisa O’Rourke (0-1); Kate Nolan, Caroline Conway, Niamh Feeney; Lauren Shanagher, Rosie Lennon (0-1), Rebecca Finan (0-2, 1 free). Subs: Kelley Colgan for Timon (23), Honor Ennis for McNamara (h/t), Natalie McHugh for Nolan (42), Ellen Irwin for Shanagher (50), Aine McGrath for Brady (60). Referee: Mel Kenny Yellow cards: Leitrim 1 (Siobhan McCartan, 23 mins), Roscommon 1 (Lisa O’Rourke, 46 mins) Player of the Match: Laura Fleming (Roscommon)

Lisa O’Rourke moves possession forward during last Sunday’s Connacht LGFA TG4 Intermediate Championship Final against Leitrim at Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada, Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Athleague bow out to clinical Clanmaurice Clanmaurice’s Jackie Horgan is tackled by Niamh Conway of Athleague. Photo credit: ©INPHO/Ken Sutton

AIB 2020 All-Ireland Junior ‘A’ Camogie Championship Semi-Final Clanmaurice 1-11 Athleague 0-6 Athleague’s hopes of an AllIreland final place were dashed by a formidable Clanmaurice outfit last Saturday afternoon at Fr. McNamara Park in Ennis. The Roscommon side, who have enjoyed a fine year which included yet another senior

county title and a provincial crown, trailed by 1-6 to 0-2 at half-time. Athleague improved after the interval and were back to within four points of the North Kerry side, and may have been even closer had Aoife Fitzgerald not touched Niamh Farrell’s penalty over the bar. As it was, Clanmaurice finished the stronger of the two teams and points from Jackie Horan, Patrice Diggin (2) and Aoife Behan sealed their place in another All-Ireland final. Clanmaurice: A Fitzgerald;

L Houlihan, N Leen, M Costello; R McCarthy, S Murphy, A O’Connor; P Diggin (0-7, 4 frees), E Slattery; A M Leen (01), J Horgan (0-1, a free), J Fitzell; A Behan (0-1), L Collins (1-0), B Horan (0-1). No subs. Athleague: P Daly; N Brandon, N Farrell (0-1, a penalty), C Carr; N Conway, M Tiernan, C Whyte-Lennon; L Fleming (0-1), E Coyle; R Fitzmaurice (0-1), R Brennan, J Horan; E O’Roarke, F Connell-Jones, T Naughton (0-3, frees). Subs used: J McCormack for O’Roarke (49 mins).

Referee Justin Heffernan with Athleague’s Niamh Conway and Patrice Diggin of Clanmaurice at the coin toss. Photo credit: ©INPHO/Ken Sutton

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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Brigid’s youngsters capture U-20 title Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 FC Division One Final St. Brigid’s 2-10 Pádraig Pearses 2-7 < SEAMUS DUKE

In a year when Roscommon reached the All-Ireland final at this grade, expectations were that the U-20 club championship was always going to be strong, and sure enough we had a superb final in Kiltoom last Friday night between two excellent teams. In a game played in perfect conditions, Brigid’s were just about the better side, but they had work hard all the way to win the title. Pearses started brightly and when Conor Lohan blasted home on the rebound after Eoin McManus’s shot was saved by Evan Gallagher in the 16th minute, they led by 1-3 to 0-2. But after the first water break, Conor Hand finished expertly for Brigid’s after a great pass from Eoghan Derwin, and it was nip and tuck for the remainder of the game. Brigid’s danger man, Ben O’Carroll, was subdued by an impressive Pearses rearguard and they were equally sharp in at-

tack. There was only a point between the teams at half-time: Pádraig Pearses 1-5 St. Brigid’s 1-4. The sides were level at 1-6 apiece by the 37th minute before O’Carroll nudged Brigid’s ahead with a trademark point in the 39th minute, and a minute later they were four ahead when Brian O’Hara-Duggan finished at the second attempt after his first shot was saved by James Costello. Pearses fought back once again. Eoin Colleran pointed from an excellent ‘mark’ and Declan Kelly drilled home a cracking goal to level the scores in the 46th minute. But the final quarter belonged to Brigid’s. Driven on by the outstanding Sean Trundle, they attacked the Pearses goal and points from Shane Cunnane (a free), Conor Hand, and sub Daniel Keenan was enough to see them over the line. Outstanding for Brigid’s on the night were Sean Trundle at full-back, Ronan Doyle, Shane Cunnane, Conor Hand and Ben O’Carroll while for a very well organised and well coached Pearses outfit, Adam Harley, Conor Lohan, Declan Kenny, and Jack Tumulty were most prominent. St. Brigid’s: Evan Gallagher; Ciaran Quinn, Sean Trundle (0-1), Michael Sugrue; Ronan

Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll presents Kilmore captain Padraig Earley with the Division 5 league trophy on Friday evening last in Kilbride. Kilmore defeated Fuerty on a scoreline of 3-7 to 1-11.

Doyle, Luke Griselain (0-1), Paddy Higgins; Brian O’HaraDuggan (1-0), Shane Cunnane (0-1, free); Ruairi Fallon, Conor Hand (1-1), Brian Monaghan; Bobby Nugent (02, 1 mark), Ben O’Carroll (0-3, 1 free), Eoghan Derwin. Subs: Brian Nestor for Monaghan (25), Daniel Meeley for Quinn (35), Daniel Keenan (01) for Derwin (46). Pádraig Pearses: James Costello; Luke Walsh, Adam Harley, John Moore; Daniel Farrell (0-1), Conor Lohan (1-0), Conor Ryan; Caelim Keogh, Jack Downey; Richard Browne, Eoin McManus, Declan Kenny (1-0); Adam McGreal (0-2, 1 mark), Eoin Colleran (0-3, 2 frees 1 mark), Jack Tumulty (0-1). Subs: Jason Cunningham for Moore (45), Thomas Carey for Browne (51), Ronan Finn for McManus (55), Darragh Finn for Ryan (62). Referee: Marty Parker Man of the Match: Sean Trundle (St. Brigid’s) *In the U-20 Football Championship Division Two Final, Strokestown were the winners over St. Dominic’s on a scoreline of 1-8 to 1-6 in Johnstown on Friday night last.

Captain Shane Cunnane receives the cup from Roscommon GAA Assistant Secretary Gerry Keegan following St. Brigid’s’ victory over Pádraig Pearses in the U-20 Division One FC Final at Kiltoom on Friday night last.

Silverware for Strokestown! Strokestown players and management celebrate winning the Roscommon U-20 Division Two Final. Strokestown overcame St. Dominic’s on a scoreline of 1-8 to 1-6 at Johnstown on Friday evening last.

Roscommon People Friday 24 December 2021

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