Roscommon People 24 July 2020

EE

FR

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

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL

Spend LOCAL

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633

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

Keep it local!

24 July 2020

The Local Paper iles and athrooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

We are now open

Please follow all HSE Covid-19 Guidelines

Frances’ Finishing Touches

Mens Trousers reduced to clear €20 each

New opening hours 12 to 4pm

For orders and enquiries contact Frances on 087 6500931 The Square, Roscommon

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931 Email: francesfinishingtouches@gmail.com

Don’t sink rural Ireland!

VOLUME: 691

< PAUL HEALY

Madra Dog Food SAVE €5 15KG BAG €15 2 FOR €25

Don’t turn rural Ireland into a “deserted theme park” – that’s the message this week from Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, as the Independent TD reiterated his concerns about the possible impact of this country’s approach on climate change.

Deputy Fitzmaurice says that when it comes to climate action, farmers are prepared to put their shoulders to the wheel. However, he adds: “We cannot allow rural Ireland to be turned into a Constituency deserted theme park so it canRoscommon-Galway act as a carbon sink for the rest of the country”.

Writing in today’s Roscommon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice says small táil family farms must beVóprotected during what he accepts will be a transformative period for Irish agriculture. (See THE RETURN OF SPORT: Roscommon Gaels’ James Mooney and Tremane’s Seamus Lynch in action during the Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Round 1 page 22).

ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Wards Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Pucking in a pandemic!

Learn to drive with

Roscommon Driving School

Eugene

Murphy

Group B game at Tremane on Saturday evening. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

TOMMIE KELLY ELECTRICAL

Roscommon store now open for business www.tommiekelly.ie

090 6634465

CASEY’S ROSCOMMON

Now Delivering Contact 090 66 38000

087 2295551

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

You know us, We’re LOCAL! For all your Home Heating & Fuel Needs

Jason McEvoy: Tel: 087 1888114 Eugene Murphy

Joe McEvoy: Tel. 087 1888115

Matt Devane: No 2: Orla Leyden Tel. 087 1882288 Aidan Casey: Elphin Street, Tel. 087 4006004 Strokestown,

Kevin Ireland: Co. Roscommon Tel. 087 2216127  071 963 3000

Senator

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland Make Safety on the farmfor all Offices: aConstituency priority!

Market Square, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

Clinics Available  090 662 5722

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

 087 435 3834

MOBILE: Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: 087 1668775 Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh,  eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

Finn Electrical

* In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie

CYCLING ACCIDENT If you were involved in a cycling accident contact

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Christy Connolly Recovery CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL. 094 9620793 MOB. 086 2505325 / 087 2505325 E: connollychristy@eircom.net

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

Large selection of Laptops

ATH L O N E Ι MO AT E LA NES B O RO U G H Ι G A LWAY

McGUINNESS

Pharmacy

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

• Approved recyclers of end of life vehicles • Destruction certs issued • 24/7 recovery service available nationwide

NEW IN STOCK

SOSU Let

Them Talk Lip Collection

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

02

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

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

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie FARMERS, WILLS AND TAX MATTERS

I read your recent column regarding tax relief for farmers with interest. I own a large farm and I want to make a will leaving everything to my only child. I have about €400,000 in savings with my bank and my farm is worth around €600,000. I believe that my daughter will qualify for Agricultural Relief on the farm. Is there any way that she can also qualify for Agricultural Relief on my bank savings?

As you may be aware a child may inherit up to €335,000 from their parents without being liable for tax. Any inheritance valued in excess of this amount will be taxed at a rate of 33%.

If your daughter qualifies for Agricultural Relief then the value of the agricultural property you are passing to her in your Will will be reduced by 90%. Example: You estimate the farm to be worth €600,000. If your daughter qualifies for Agricultural Relief the farm will be valued at just €60,000 for tax purposes.

It is imperative that your daughter liaises with her Accountant to secure the best tax planning advice so as to ensure that she will qualify for Agricultural Relief in due course.

To answer your main question, I note that you expect your daughter to inherit a cash sum in the region of €400,000 from you. Your daughter may also qualify for agricultural relief on this proposed cash inheritance should your will be drafted in a particular manner. My advice would be to include a clause within your will providing for the bequest of this sum of money to your daughter on the condition that the whole or part thereof be invested in agricultural property with two years of the date of issue of the grant of representation in your estate.

CYCLING ACCIDENT

With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Your man that Christy Moore sang

If you were involved in a cycling about…I wonder how he is?! accident contact Huh?

Byrne Carolan I’d say he’s going CRAZY! Cunningham Solicitors Christy Moore doesn’t really do crazy.

He’s a cool guy…

NOT CHRISTY! The fellow he sang about! I’d say HE’S going crazy!

Huh? That song! “As I sat lookin’ up (at) the Guinness ad I could never figure out…how your man stayed up on the surfboard after fourteen pints of stout…” Sure that fella must be going mad for a pint!

Oh…him! You’re still on about a pint… sure didn’t we have a can or four over ZOOM a few times…

I want a PINT! A pint of Guinness! In a pub!

Okay, okay, calm down! But yeah, I know what you mean. It’s a long time since we were in the pub. Who’d have believed it… very frustrating. But sure what can we do?

MARCH! Dunno. I’m all for peaceful protest and so on, but I don’t know if the public would have the appetite for a march over the pubs being closed.

I’m not talking about a protest march, I mean we haven’t had a pint in a pub since MARCH! And we’re meant to be the barstool boyos!

I told you before…there probably won’t be any barstools!

You’re serious?

I AM SERIOUS! It could be you sitting at a table, with me a metre or two away!

But I wouldn’t be able to nudge you with my leg when The Man Who Knows Everything Comes In. Ah, he used to see that going on…he knew well.

Sure he knows everything…

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They wave to a passing motorist)

Sad times.

There are more important things.

Huh? Than a pint in the local.

Oh I know that, but we shouldn’t underestimate it! Pubs are important.

Ireland was changing even before the pandemic, but we don’t have to buy into all of that. We’re old school…

True…

I mean, the pub culture SHOULDN’T be changing! We should be slow to forget the role of pubs in our society.

They are part of our history, our culture…

True! In the pubs, we socialise, we have a good time…and in tourism hot-spots, our pubs are revered by tourists! In pubs, we

Still, it’s great to see the GAA returning!

And other sports!

Brilliant!

Happy days for referees, and managers!

Why? Win-win! Back in action, but with no ‘experts’ rubbishing them on barstools after the game!

For now!

Anyways, I wonder what became of that other fella. Not the fella on the surfboard in that old ad…

Huh? The fella that used to do that mad dancing…

Michael Flatley?

NO! THE CRAZY, WEIRD DANCING! Oh, I have it!

Yeah…the OTHER Guinness ad from long ago. That wiry fella that used to do all those funny dances around a giant pint…

Oh HIM? I thought you meant Des Cahill…

What we liked…

Should your daughter invest this cash bequest in agricultural property in compliance with this condition then the cash bequest will qualify for Agricultural Relief and will be written down accordingly for tax purposes. The valuation date for tax purposes will be the date of investment in agricultural property.

We were delighted to hear that brothers Padraig and Vivian MacDermott have been able to return to their home in Elphin, six months after it was destroyed by fire. After a tremendous community response, the house has been completely renovated. We have the story on our Good News page!

As this is a conditional bequest, i.e. the money is bequeathed to your daughter on the condition she invests it in agricultural property, the bequest will fail if your daughter fails to so invest the funds. In light of this, it is imperative that your will provides for an alternative clause to protect this bequest to your daughter.

What we didn’t like…

The number of people infected with Covid-19 in this country rose fairly significantly over recent days. The trend now – post-lifting of restrictions – is causing real concern.

There were 35 new cases reported on Tuesday evening.

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

What PEOPLE are talking about ...

SOLICITORS

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

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

show the best of our Irishness, we engage!

Except with The Man Who Knows Everything…

Ah, I told you before, the lockdown has made me look at life differently. The Man Who Knows Everything is a decent man.

The pub is an occasional outlet for him.

It’s another reason why the rural pub is so important…for men like him, men who might be lonely…

True enough.

I feel sorry for the publicans too…it’s tough on them.

Well, hopefully they can reopen soon… and then it will be up to everyone in society to act responsibly!

SO NEAR, YET SO FAR: A reader sent us this photograph of her dog…eyeing up some elusive food!

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan falling asleep in the stand-in Dáil (Convention Centre); the return, with restrictions, of competitive GAA activity; the rise in Covid-19 cases; a fond farewell to Jack Charlton; the return to the Premier League of his former club, Leeds United…

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

03

Timothy’s ABBEYTOWN

Dear Customer, Thank you for choosing to shop in your local Londis.

You are supporting:

43 local people in employment and 10 local suppliers

This support has allowed Timothy’s Londis to remain strong to support our community in every way we can.

We want to pay a special tribute to our brave staff in this store who served you over the last number of months.

Your custom is hugely important to us, we want to again thank you and look forward to seeing you soon.

Kind Regards, Annie, Vincent and Mike Timothy’s Londis Abbeytown

% 3 3 E V SA

E

IC R P F L A H

BIRDS EYE XL Battered/ Breaded Fish Fillets 320g €2.44/ Chicken Burger Quarter Pounders 454g €3.50 See in store for details

SAVE UP TO €3.55

9

EYE OF THE ROUND (From the Butcher Counter) KG(W) €9.99 per kg

SAVE 33%

22

€

.9 7 € M O FR

5

€

CREAM OF THE CROP Rooster Potatoes 5kg €1 per kg

CORONA LIGHT 350ml 12pk Bottles €16 COORS LIGHT 330ml 20pk Bottles €22

SAVE €2.99

I HEART Wine Range 75cl €7.99 CAMPO DI PIETRA Prosecco 75cl €8.99

SAVE UP TO €2 Offers available until 30th July 2020 or while stocks last.

04

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

Murphy raises local job losses with Minister Ryan Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the fact that the new Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Eamon Ryan TD has accepted an invitation to visit the Longford/Roscommon region to see at first-hand the fallout from the loss of Bord na Mona and ESB jobs.

During last week’s Seanad discussion on the second stage of the National Oil Reserves Agency (Amendment) and Provision of Central Treasury Services Bill 2020, Senator Murphy raised the issue of job losses in the region with Minister Ryan.

As part of the planning conditions of the closure of the ESB power stations in Lanesboro and Shannonbridge, the structures must be demolished.

Senator Murphy: “Decarbonisation is no longer a buzzword. It is a reality for every part of our society.

How we achieve it and overcome difficulties will be challenging but those difficulties will not be overcome by creating ‘us and them’ situations. Incorrect material is sometimes put out in order to frighten people.

“The situation relating to Bord na Móna and Just Transition is shocking. The transition was to occur over an eight-year period but has happened virtually overnight. That has created a great challenge. I know that the Minister has taken a keen interest in the matter”.

The Fianna Fáil Senator said that Bord na Móna and the ESB were the “economic lifeline of our locality for 70 years and thousands of people relied on them”.

“We all must acknowledge that change is coming rapidly but we must ensure that those communities are not left behind,” said Senator Murphy.

Pictured are Brian Farrell (Windmill Wheelers), Padraig Scott (Tulsk GAA), Seamus Cox (Windmill Wheelers), and Breda Durr (Windmill Wheelers).

Images taken prior to Covid-19.

Breda’s fundraiser for Jamie (7) Major fundraising campaign underway to help son of a Tulsk native get treatment he urgently needs in Boston….

Jamie Mannion (7), son of Declan Mannion (a native of Rathfudagh, Tulsk) and Siobhan Ryan, has a severe intellectual disability and global developmental delay with the developmental level of a 10-12-month-old baby.

Devastatingly, Jamie was also diagnosed with focal epilepsy a year ago, which has brought its own complications. He

requires intensive therapy sessions that are only available through the Neuroplasticity Napa Centre in Boston.

Jamie’s father, Declan, is originally from Tulsk. Declan’s parents/Jamie’s grandparents, Johnny & Lily Mannion, now live at St. Patrick Street in Castlerea.

Jamie’s mum, Siobhan, has been working with the centre to prepare Jamie for his treatment. This pioneering treatment is expensive and Jamie’s parents need to raise €50,000. This treatment will help Jamie walk and improve his quality of life.

One of the local fundraisers being organised is by Declan Mannion’s cousin,

Breda Durr (nee Cahill), from Hermitage, Ballinagare. Breda and her cycling buddy Brian Farrell have decided to fund-raise by doing a ‘CYCLE-CLIMB-CYCLE’ event on August 2nd. They will be departing from Tulsk at 4.30 am and cycling to Murrisk, Co. Mayo. There they will climb Croagh Patrick, before returning on their journey home to the maroon and white of Tulsk. The total cycle is 220km and a 7km climb (2500 ft.). Jamie’s family also has a Go Fund Me page set up; to donate to this fundraiser, log on to Gofundme.com/ cycle-climb-cycle 4jamie (all support greatly appreciated).

PREPARATION OF ROSCOMMON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2021 – 2027 PUBLIC CONSULTATION EVENTS Roscommon County Council will be holding the following public consultation events as part of the Pre-Draft Public Consultation Phase for the preparation of a new County Development Plan for the period of 2021-2027. The events will operate as a “drop in” event whereby members of the public will have an opportunity to engage with staff members from the Planning Department and discuss strategic issues relevant to the Development Plan preparation process.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions which continue to apply, a queuing system will be in place and attendees will be require to use hand sanitising facilities which will be available at entrance/exit points to each of the venues. Social distancing is to be practised at all times and attendees are encouraged to download the COVID 19 Tracker app before attending. Attendees will be required to provide contact details for the purpose of contact tracing.

If you consider that you have a disability which may affect your attendance and participation, please contact us at 090-6637175 or email us at forwardplan@roscommoncoco.ie to discuss any special requirements, in order that appropriate arrangements can be put in place.

Schedule of Public Consultation Events: Date

Time

Location

Venue

Other Information

Thurs 23rd July

11am – 2pm

Strokestown

Percy French Hotel

Ballroom

Thurs 23rd July

4-7pm

Boyle

The Spool Factory

The Event Centre Upper floor function room

Fri 24th July

11am – 2pm

Castlerea

The Hub

Ground floor hall

Fri 24th July

4-7pm

Ballaghadereen

NWRA Offices

Assembly Chamber

Mon 27th July

4-7pm

Roscommon

Abbey Hotel

Ballroom

Tues 28th July

4-7pm

Monksland

Athlone Springs Hotel

Ground floor function room

Signed:

Martin Lydon Director of Housing, Digital Transformation, Planning, Head of Finance and Roscommon Municipal District Area Manager

Date:

16th July 2020

Pictured is the Mannion family: Declan, Siobhan, Ryan, and Jamie. Images taken prior to Covid-19.

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

05

06

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

All weekend For some of us, it was probably the best ‘Friday feeling’ in…let’s say 16 years.

On Friday, without kicking a ball (challengers West Brom lost) Leeds United were finally promoted back into the Premier League.

After 16 years!

Leeds are one of the biggest clubs in England, but they experienced a disastrous decline in the early years of the 21st century, slipping from the limelight into the shadows, where they have remained until now.

Since 2004, it’s been one long trauma for a once-great club. Leeds even dropped into the old third division, the third tier of the game.

Financial hardship, lamentable mismanagement and shattered morale combined to consign Leeds to the status of Yesterday’s Men. Nothing worse than not being relevant any more!

Lots of clubs have to ply their trade in lower leagues, and Leeds weren’t above that, it’s just that this was a mighty fall for a mighty club. A club that could rival Liverpool and Manchester United for passion and pedigree, a club that had been used to epic European nights, to pulsating, fiery battles at Old Trafford, Anfield, Elland Road. Leeds, steeped in history and tradition, now almost falling apart. But the phenomenal fan base remained loyal. Often, even in this lower league, with glory now a taunting ghost of the past, as many as 35,000 fans packed into Elland Road… willing the past to be reclaimed. 35,000 fans at home matches! Premier League chairmen could only watch and weep.

In recent seasons, Leeds came close to returning to the top flight, but close doesn’t seal the deal. Appointing, then keeping, the eccentric but brilliant Marcelo Bielsa (yes, the man who watches games while sitting on a bucket) finally made the difference. This remarkable man, who is revered by many of the top managers in the world, has created a formidable team of relentless power and pace. On Saturday, they were confirmed as champions.

While Leeds won what is now the Premier League in 1992 – and have had many fine teams over the years – most fans link their love of the club back to the Don Revie era. In any debate as to which was the greatest club team ever in England, Revie’s ruthless, brilliant side would have to feature.

They actually underachieved. In ten seasons from 1964 to ’74, Leeds won the league twice, were runners-up five times, and never

Besides, whatever about Donald and Melania, surely Kim would frown at having to move into a smaller house?

I wonder what Mrs. Carter would make of it all…

Tuesday

Marcelo Bielsa

outside the top four. They also won the FA Cup, League Cup and two (European) Fairs’ Cups. Trophies are one thing; while they had a reputation for being cynical – certainly they were hard men – Leeds also played some magnificent football, gracing the English game, to the begrudging appreciation of their rivals.

Revie’s team oozed class…the names (too many to include all here) still evoke the fondest of memories half a century on: Cooper, Reaney, Madeley, Charlton, Hunter, Giles, Bremner, Gray, Lorimer, Jones, Clarke.

Life is funny, or more accurately, strange. Life is…life. Leeds have returned to the top flight in the same year in which the club lost three greats, with the deaths of Norman Hunter, Trevor Cherry and Jack Charlton. It’s poignant and sad. We hope the great men are smiling down, maybe even chuckling with Don. Leeds United are back in the big time. Mr. Bielsa, the brilliant, gifted ‘man with the bucket’ is coming to the Premier League. A great club, back where it belongs!

Monday When Jimmy Carter rang his mother one day in 1974 and solemnly told her “I’ve decided to run for President”, she responded: “Of what?”

It wasn’t the most encouraging reply, but it reflected how much of a dark horse Carter was. In fact, he had decided to run for President of America; he did, and he won!

I imagine some people might have had the same reaction when they heard of Kanye West’s intentions. President of what? The rapper, husband of Kim Kardashian, has, according to news websites today, officially launched his presidential bid.

I scroll to see what’s going on. I had assumed that if Mr. West gets on to the ballot paper, it will be as an independent: in fact he has formed a party – ‘The Birthday Party’.

As for policies, he wants to reduce abortions by giving financial incentives to single mothers.

“Every woman who has a baby should get a million dollars”.

Oh dear, this does not bode well. And the last thing the White House needs is an idiot in charge!

About two months ago, during peak lockdown, I walked as far as the Roscommon Gaels’ pitches at Lisnamult. The sun was splitting the stones, the welcome hot weather an odd backdrop to misery.

Even the walk (from our office in Abbey Street) felt surreal, Roscommon by then stripped of the ebb and flow of normal daily life. There were four people outside a house; we exchanged nods, prisoners of a pandemic, none of us entirely sure of our boundaries.

At the Gaels’ pitch, a silence that was also surreal. Opposite the GAA grounds, the beautiful AstroTurf soccer facility. Not a single person at either venue, both closed, off limits.

The beautiful weather amplified the sense of a lost summer.

Today, I drove to Lisnamult to collect our son from GAA training. The place is buzzing.

The same beautiful, hopeful picture is forming all over the county. Parents are queuing to drive in. Various age groups are being catered for, on the various pitches.

Our son and a friend amble towards the car, thirsty from their toil, happy, chatting. Small kids and teenagers come and go, coaches’ voices hang in mid-air. A father, arms folded, watches with pride as his son is released again to follow in his dad’s fancy footsteps.

Just now, on this lovely evening, it’s almost like Covid didn’t really happen. This phased, cautious, well organised return to the type of normality we knew is so important for these children. They’re smiling. We’ve a journey to travel, but at least the silences of mid-summer are no more.

Every day…

Some readers might remember the charming British sitcom ‘My Wife Next Door’ which was very popular back in the 1970s. A married couple (played by John Alderton and Hannah Gordon) get a divorce. They both move to the country, planning to start new, separate lives…only to discover that they have bought two adjoining cottages! (And, from that unlikely scenario, the comic chaos starts).

I wonder if new Taoiseach Micheál Martin has been reminded of this sitcom over the past couple of weeks? Anyone for ‘My Fellow Taoiseach Next Door’?

07

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

AL HAYES MOTORS

LTD.

GALWAY ROAD, PORTUMNA, CO GALWAY. TELEPHONE MAIN LINE: 09097 42200 Visit: www.alhayesmotors.com • Open: Monday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm •

– OVER 100 CARS TO CLEAR! – Year

Make & Model

Price

CARS UNDER €6,500 NCT Tested

2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2010

VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 seater VW Polo 1.2TDI C/L VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL Estate Audi A4 2.0DSl

€6,450 €6,450 €6,450 €6,450 €6,000 €6,500

CARS UNDER €6,000 NCT Tested

131 2011 2011 2011 2010

Ford Fiesta 1.0 5DR Zetec Toyota Yaris 1.0 5Dr Petrol Opel Astra 1.0 DSL Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL ( White) Toyota Corolla 1.4 Petrol

€5,000 €5,500 €5,250 €5,500 €5,000

CARS UNDER €5,000 NCT Tested

2011 2010 2010 2010 2008

VW Polo 1.2TDI 3Dr VW Jetta 1.6TDI Mazda 3 1.6DSl Opel Astra 1.4 H/B VW Golf 1.4 3Dr GT

€4,500 €4,500 €4,500 €4,500 €4,500

CARS UNDER €4,000

2012 2011 2011 2009

VW Polo Cross 1.2TSI 5Dr Petrol Ford Focus 1.6DSL Nissan Note 1.5DSL Van Toyota Auris 1.4 D4D

€4,500 €3,500 €3,000 €3,500

CARS UNDER €3,500

2010 2010 2009 2009 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2003 2001

Suzuki SX4 1.6DSL Seat Altea 1.6DSL Van Opel Zafari 1.7 CDTI 7 Seater Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL VW Polo 1.4TDI DSL Ford Mondeo DSL VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus Nissan Quashqai 1.5DSL VW Passat DSL Estate Peugeot 807 DS 7 Seater Toyota Auris 1.4DSL Van VW Golf 1.4 VW Passat 1.9DSL

€3,000 €2,000 €2,500 €3,000 €3,500 €2,000 €3,500 €3,000 €2,500 €2,000 €2,500 €600 €500

CARS UNDER €10,000

172 2015 2015 2014 142 142 141 2013 2011 2011 2010 2010

Skoda Citigo A/T VW Up Ford Focus 1.6DSL VW Jetta 1.6TDI Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL Opel Insignia 2.0DSL Ford C Max VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.2 Petrol 5DR Nissan Quashqai DSL VW Tiguan 2.0TDI A/T 4X4 Ford Galaxy 1.8DSL 7 Seater

€8,950 €8,500 €10,000 €10,000 €10,500 €8,500 €9,500 €7,500 €8,500 €8,500 €9,500 €7,450

VOLKSWAGEN & OTHER MAKES RANGE

191 192 181 171 151 191 181 171 171 161 191 191 192 191 181 172 162 151 182

VW Golf TDI 5Dr VW Golf 1.0 5DR Petrol VW Golf TDI 5DR VW Golf TDI 5DR VW Golf TDI 5DR VW Passat 2.0TDI 150HP C/L VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L VW Passat 2.0TDI 150HP H/L VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L VW T Roc 1.6 TDIDesign VW T Roc 1.0 5DR Petrol Design VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP Allspace 7 Seater VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP Extras VW Tiguan 2.0TDI VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP A/T Vw Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP C/L A/T VW Tiguan 2.0TDI “R” Line 4X4 A/T VW Golf 1.6TDI

€21,950 €19,500 €20,500 €16,500 €13,500 €28,500 €24,500 €21,000 €22,500 €16,500 €24,500 €24,000 €37,500 €31,000 €27,500 €30,500 €24,500 €22,500 €18,500

Year 181 182 181 2018 181 172 171 2017 2017 2017 171 171 171 171 171 171 172 171 161 2016 2016 161 162 162 161 161 161 162 161 161 161 152 151 2015 2014 2014 2014 141 2013

Make & Model Price VW Jetta 2.0TDI C/L €18,500 Ford Fiesta 1.1 5DR €12,500 Ford Kugo A/T €24,500 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €14,500 Renault Megane 1.5DSL €16,500 Ford Mondeo 2.0 ST line Dsl €12,500 Seat Ataca 1.6DSl SE €19,500 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €13,000 Ford Kugo 1.5DSL 5 Seater Crew Cab €11,950 + VAT Hyundai I40 1.7DSL €18,000 Kia Sportage 1.7CRDI €19,950 Audi A3 1.6DSl SE €19,950 VW Jetta 2.0TDI C/L A/T €13,950 Hyundai Tuscon 1.7DSL €20,450 VW Caddy Maxi Life DSL 7 Seater A/T €19,500 Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab €22,500 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL ST line €13,500 Hyundai Tuscon 1.7DSL €21,000 Citroen Grand Scenic 7 Seater €13,500 Mazda 2 1.5 Petrol €12,950 VW Polo 1.4TDI €12,450 Toyota Avensis 1.6DSL Estate €14,500 Ford Mondeo 1.5DSL €15,000 Opel Insignia 1.6DSL 138HP Extras (25Kms) €14,500 VW Golf 1.6 DSL 5Dr €13,950 VW Golf 1.6TDI Van €10,500 + VAT Mazda 6 2.2DSL €14,950 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150BHP €13,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports Leather €18,500 VW Caddy Maxi Life DSL 7 Seater €16,500 Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab €18,500 Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab €16,500 VW Jetta 1.6TDI C/L €13,000 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €14,500 Hyundai I40 1.7DSL €12,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €11,950 Mazda CX5 2.2DSL A/T €14,500 Audi A4 2.0DSL SE €14,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI H/L €10,500 COMMERCIAL RANGE 4X4 RANGE

201 VW Amarok V6 Highline Automatic €41,900 + VAT 171 VW Amarok V6 Highline Automatic €28,850 + VAT 152 VW Amarok TDI €19,500 141 VW Amarok €16,500 2012 Toyota Landcruiser LWB €16,500 2009 Toyota Landcruiser LWB €13,500 171 Mitsubishi L200 leather €21,500 141 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL €12,195 + VAT 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL €9,950 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2DSL LWB Kombi 5 Seater €7,500 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2DSL SWB €6,000 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB €3,000 2007 Nissan Pathfinder 2.5DSL €5,000

171 172 171 151 2009 181 171 161 131 2008 2009 181 191 171 172 161

BUSES 7 ,8 & 9 Seater RANGE

VW Shuttle Bus 9 Seater VW Caravelle 7 Seater 2.0TDI 150HP Automatic VW Shuttle Bus 9 Seater Automatic LWB VW Shuttle Bus 9 Seater LWB VW Shutle Bus 9 Seater VW Caddy life 7 Seater (20KM) VW Caddy life 7 Seater automatic VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater VW Caddy Maxi Life Drop Floor Mercedes Vito 9 Seater Bus Toyota Hiace Bus VW Touran C/L 7 Seater VW Touran T/L 7 seater VW Touran Highline 2.0TDI 150 A/T VW Touran H/L 1.6TDI 7 Seater A/T VW Touran C/L 1.6TDI 7Seater

€29,500 €42,500 €27,500 €21,500 €7,500 €24,000 €21,500 €16,500 €18,500 €5,500 €5,000 €28,500 €31,000 €29,950 €27,500 €16,500

Year

Make & Model

Price

TRANSPORTER RANGE

192 191 191 191 181 171 162 161 141 131 2011 2010 2009 2008 2006 2004

192 192 181 181 181 181

182 172 161 171 151 172 171 171 142 2009

181 161 151 142

171 161 151 142 2012

181 171 171 172 161 181 181 181 172 172 162 181 162 2012 142 151 181 161 181 152 172 162

VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB €23,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP SWB €27,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102HP SWB €21,900 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP LWB €23,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150H LWB €19,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP Highline 4X4 €22,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP T/L LWB (High Mileage) €12,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102LWB €14,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €12,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €9,500 + VAT VW Transporter LWB €9,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140HP SWB A/T €5,000 + VAT VW Transporter LWB 2.5TDI €4,878 + VAT VW Transporter SWB 2.5TDI €4,065 + VAT VW Transporter SWB 2.5TDI €2,000 VW Transporter SWB 1.9TDI €1,500 CADDY VANS RANGE

VW Caddy 2.0TDI 150HP VW Caddy 2.0TDI 150HP VW Caddy 2.0TDI 150HP 6 Speed VW Caddy 2.0TDI VW Caddy 2.0TDI A/T VW Caddy Maxi 150HP

€16,950 + VAT €12,950 + VAT €12,950 + VAT €10,500 + VAT €14,950 €12,500 + VAT

TOYOTA RANGE

Toyota Corolla 1.3 (Petrol) Toyota Corolla 1.4DSL Toyota Corola 1.4TDI Toyota Auris Saul 1.4DSL Toyota Yaris 1.5 Hybrid A/T Toyota Avensis 1.6DSL Luna Toyota Avensis Luna 2.0DSL Toyota RAV 4 2.0D4D Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL

€19,500 €16,500 €15,500 €15,500 €13,500 €18,500 €17,500 €21,950 €10,500 €3,500

GOLF VANS RANGE

VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI

€17,950 €10,500 + VAT €9,500 + VAT €8,500+ VAT

FORD COMMERCIAL RANGE

Ford Transit 2.0DSL Custom Ford Transit 2.0DSL 350 Ford Transit 2.0DSL Custom Ford Transit 2.0DSL Custom Ford Transit 2.0DSL 350

€14,500 €12,500 + VAT €10,975 + VAT €9,500 + VAT €5,000

OTHER MAKES RANGE

Hyundai Tuscon 107DSL Platinum Kia Sportage Platinum Mercedes C -Class DSL Automatic Honda CRV 1.6DSL ES Range Rover Euoque DSL Seat Arona GL Petrol Skoda Karoq 1.6TDI Skoda Karoq 2.0TDI Automatic Skoda Rapid 1.4TDI Saloon Ford Mondeo 2.0TDI (High Mileage) Ford Mondeo 1.5DSL Ford Mondeo 1.5DSL Skoda Yeti DSL Outdoor Skoda Yeti DSL Ford S-Max 2.0TDCI 7 Seater Audi A6 2.0TDI Automatic VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP C/L Automatic VW Golf SV 1.6TDI C/L Automatic Ford Kugo Titanium DSl Mazda 5 2.0DSL SE Exect Seat Leon 1.6TDI 5Dr Opel insignia 1.6CTDI

€25,500 €22,500 €24,500 €23,500 €25,500 €16,950 €27,950 €29,500 €14,500 €10,500 €15,500 €22,500 €16,500 €9,500 €12,500 €13,500 €29,500 €14,500 €24,500 €19,950 €15,000 €13,500

SALES TEAM: • MAIN LINES - PORTUMNA: 090 9742200 – MAIN LINE – TUAM: 093 26411 – MAIN LINE – ENNIS 065 6822400 – AL: 086 2449645 – DAMIEN: 087 2368841 – NIALL: 087 6385033 – ALAN: 087 4153872 – MARTIN: 086 2056597

08

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

‘5KFOR50k’ fundraiser for local charities Arcadia Retail Park in Athlone have launched an ambitious and innovative charitable fundraiser across five Midland counties, bringing brought together ten charities from Westmeath, Longford, Roscommon, Galway, and Offaly – with the aim of raising €50,000 through a series of 5k Virtual events.

The plan is to support charities in the area that have had their usual fundraising initiatives decimated by the Covid-19 situation. Nearly all the usual local fundraising activities organised by these charities have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This Virtual 5k series of events aims to raise much-needed funds to offset the ‘lost’ fundraising this year.

The ‘Arcadia 5KFOR50k’ fundraiser will involve a virtual 5k run, walk or cycle event

held for 5 consecutive weekends in 5 different counties – supporting 10 local charities.

Each 5k event will be a virtual event and individuals, families and supporters are invited to complete a 5k at any time during that weekend, in a location they wish by running, walking or cycling.

Each weekend will see a different county hold a virtual 5k event with a focus on two local charities.

Each weekend, the focus will be on two different local charities to showcase the great work that they do for their local communities. Supporters are asked to please join and support where you can via a Go Fund Me page www.gofundme. com/f/arcadia-5kfor50k.

100% of the donations raised will be divided evenly between the 10 local charities and the target to reach is €50,000.00.

The charities you will be helping…

The charities involved are as follows: * St. Hilda (Athlone) and Good to Talk (Mullingar) 17th-20th July in Westmeath (last weekend). * St. Christopher’s (Longford) and NCBI (Moate), 24th-27th July in Longford. * Family Resource Centre (Roscommon & Castlerea) and Irish Wheelchair Association (Athlone & Mullingar), 31st July-3rd August in Roscommon. * East Galway & Midlands Cancer Support (Ballinasloe) and South Westmeath Hospice (Athlone), 7th August-10th August in Galway.

Pictured at the launch of the ‘Arcadia 5KFOR50k’ fundraiser

Arcadia Retail Park have confirmed that if the €50,000.00 target is reached, they will donate a further €10,000.00 to this fundraiser.

Fiachra McLoughlin, Director of Arcadia Retail Park said: “We are delighted to promote and sponsor this event which I hope captures

people’s imagination to get out and do a run or walk and to give support to the wide range of local charities. The charitable and voluntary

sector has been hit hard by the Covid lockdown and we hope this will help them raise funds to continue on with their great work”.

* Offaly Family Resource Centre and Offaly Domestic Violence Support Services, 14th August-17th August in Offaly.

McDermott welcomes flood prevention work on the River Jiggy WORKING

Councillor Marty McDermott has welcomed the fact that work has begun on the River Jiggy in Roscommon aimed at preventing future flooding, and following his representations.

Cllr. McDermott (pictured at the location of the works) told the Roscommon People: “I am delighted that works have commenced in recent days on cleaning out parts of the River Jiggy, for the purpose of flood prevention. Works are taking place from the County Home Road to the Railway Bridge.

“This will be of huge benefit to the local residents and businesses in this area, who in the past have been affected badly by flooding. I have been working with the County Council on this issue for the last number of months and I am delighted to see this issue now being addressed”.

Cllr. McDermott said he wished to thank the relevant engineer and Roscommon County Council generally for their assistance on this important project.

HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

Main  :Street, 087Ballaghaderreen.

194 5254 Tel. 094 9861688 Councillor Marty McDermott has welcomed the fact that work has begun on the River Jiggy in Roscommon

 : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

09

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Phase 4 of the Reopening Roadmap is being paused Covid-19 has had an enormous impact on Ireland, on our communities, our businesses and our families. In responding to the crisis the priority has always been the wellbeing of our people and our communities.

Thanks to the extraordinary commitment, sacriďŹ ce and solidarity of the Irish people, we have limited the impact of the disease and saved lives, thank you. But the virus is still with us, it still poses signiďŹ cant risks - and we must continue to be cautious.

There has been an increase in cases in Ireland. We are in a good position as regards the progress we have made with the disease. We want to hold on to that. So we are taking a cautious approach and pausing Phase 4 until August 10th to allow us to continue to monitor the changes we have seen in the last 2 to 3 weeks.

We want to take a prudent approach so that we can continue to protect the vulnerable, enable schools to reopen and to continue the careful resumption of healthcare services.

These are the ďŹ ve main things you should know

1

2

Phase 4 of the reopening roadmap is being paused until 10th August.

We must limit our contacts.

You should limit direct contacts with those outside your household.

You are advised to limit the number of visitors to your home to a maximum of 10 from no more than 4 other households.

3

4

5

Face coverings are now mandatory on public transport.

Pubs, bars and casinos will remain closed.

All customers in shops and shopping centres are asked to wear face coverings.

Pubs and bars operating as restaurants that opened for Phase 3 must be fully compliant with the regulations.

All non essential international travel must continue to be avoided.

Organised gatherings must not exceed 50 people indoors or 200 outdoors.

On Monday 20th July, The Government will publish a Green List of countries which have a similar risk of infection to Ireland.

However, we are still asked to avoid all non essential international travel.

Continue to avoid crowded spaces.

The Pandemic is not over. The Public Health guidance remains the same: Observe hand hygiene

We are still in this together.

Find out all details, and public health advice at gov.ie

Social distancing rules still apply

Observe coughing and sneezing etiquette

10

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

For great homecooked food you can’t beat Horan’s family run restaurant.

We put our food first

Outside catering a speciality, contract sandwiches, wraps, office catering, etc.

Great Weekend Breakfast Menu including pancakes, omelettes, full Irish, etc.

SUNDAY LUNCH to include 7oz Steak Burgers, Stir frys and our very popular Fresh Cod with Homemade Tartare Sauce

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519 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

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Has Eamon found his ‘dream’ job?

Maybe he’s neither an early bird, nor a night owl, but rather a permanently exhausted little pigeon.

Aww diddums! Maybe his ‘to do’ list that day included…go to work…fall asleep…wait for reaction. Whatever the reason, I find it highly inappropriate that Green Party leader Eamon Ryan appeared to doze off during a private members motion brought by the Social Democrats which sought to strengthen the rights of lower-paid workers during this Covid-19 pandemic.

Indeed I’d imagine his deputy

Catherine Martin, (who’s in a head-to-head leadership race with her boss) thought Eamon’s Rip Van Winkle impression was a hoot! To remind readers…Rip Van Winkle is a fairytale about a man who’s totally oblivious to what is going on around him.

In the story, poor auld Rip falls asleep for twenty years, only to wake up and find there have been a few major changes made to his world! Hmmm, sound familiar, Eamon?

Now many may find Eamon’s ‘forty winks’ scenario humor-

ous, indeed our own Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice tried to cut ‘Sleepy’ some slack, saying, “Probably the man has been doing long hours and anyone can fall asleep who’s doing long hours”. Bless! However, as far as I’m concerned, dozing in the Dáil, (okay, it was the convention Centre in Dublin), when the future of low-paid workers and those engaged in ‘precarious work’ is at stake is an out and out disgrace. It’s as if, in taking his apparent catnap, Mr. Ryan made a mockery, not just

of those of us who are eeking out a living on minimum wage, but of those who voted for him. For the record Eamon, I didn’t vote for you! That said, I will offer you two pieces of advice. Happy hour in the Dáil does not mean take a nap, and, while in life your dreams have come true, (i.e. you somehow managed to weasel yourself into power), sooner or later so will one of your nightmares, because in most organisations, going bye-byes while on the clock is actually a dismissible offence.

Don’t penalise local, rural pubs Ever fear the light at the end of the tunnel was coming from a train, and you’re tied to the tracks??? Me too! This is exactly how I feel at the moment, given the postponement of our country’s phase four reopening process.

I have huge sympathy for local pub owners, workers and patrons. And, maybe my brain has come unstuck, but I’m finding myself in agreement with cap connoisseur extraordinaire Michael Healy-Rae when he wails there’s “no logic” in delaying opening of rural pubs, (that don’t serve food). He’s right…so long as these establishments can ensure social distancing.

However, if pubs do reopen, I won’t be rushing to enter one. Nor will I be attending any large gatherings, even family ones; especially those being held in my native and beautiful Dublin. Why? Because some people are so thick they believe the Gaza strip is a form of bikini

All types of Roof Cleaning, Ridge Tile Repairing, Gutter Cleaning, Facia & Soffitts and Sealed Gutter Repairing All types of Driveway Cleaning Also Patio Cleaning, Houses and Walls

Contact: Gerry: 085 287 9599 Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

wax! These are the idiots, who, due to their disgusting behaviour in parts of the capital earlier this month, will probably be the main cause of a spike in Covid cases over the coming weeks.

When you’ve got the intellect of a gnat, I imagine it’s easy to ignore serious health warnings, get rat-assed drunk and engage in acts of grotesque and damaging behaviours, (the likes of which were reported by the national media), all in the name of ‘havin’ da craic’. I was absolutely sickened when I read that one hospitality worker revealed he’d witnessed drunken revellers outside his restaurant’s laneway peeing “conveyor belt” style, (no social distancing), up against a window as diners were eating their meals.

Why is it that some of us can be responsible and follow safety protocols while others (cretins) feel the need to turn a simple directive into a full-blown Martin Scorsese movie?

Could Mr Bombastic become POTUS? You’d be forgiven for believing that the US and its politics could not become any more farcical; however, given selfidolising chump Kanye West’s declaration of his intention to run for POTUS 2020, it’s clear that it can! When a bombastic reality TV ‘star’ whose nickname is Yeezy, and who has a voice that sounds like an exposed nerve, could actually potentially become the most powerful human on this planet, it’s time to worry. Methinks the candidacy of this attention-seeking rapper with an oversized ego that regularly does battle with his mammoth insecurity raises more questions about the state of the world Kanye West than it actually answers!

Please protect your pets

Incidents of dog theft are rampant. Criminal gangs, some masquerading as couples looking for directions, some as families asking if their ‘kids’ can pet your dogs, are snatching beloved family pets as a form of no risk, easy money, yet despicably cruel crime.

The pandemic lockdown has caused a major surge in people becoming interested in getting a puppy/dog for company, with many prepared to pay a high price. Organised crime gangs are now lifting family dogs the length and breadth of Roscommon. The majority of these poor dogs are sold on to be used as breeding machines by illegal puppy farmers, with the ‘leftovers’ being sold as ‘bait’ to be used, abused, maimed, tortured and murdered by the scum of society who engage in illegal dog fighting.

I’d like to advise dog owners to never, ever leave their pets unattended outside of their home, even for a pee…stand with them at all times. Microchip your pets and make sure their details (and yours) are registered with a government-approved organisation. If you’ve moved house, update your details. Spay/neuter your pets and, if possible, install CCTV or a security device at your home/ premises. An Garda Síochána will advise you regarding same.

To those who wish to add a dog to their family, for God’s sake, adopt from a local Roscommon dog shelter/rescue and stop feeding this cruel, vile, greedy puppy farming plague by buying dogs!

When you buy from a puppy farmer (and I’m not talking about responsible IKC registered breeders here), you’re literally sentencing another poor dog in a pound to his/her death. Please support your local rescue; and, when you do adopt your new family member, keep them safe and secure.

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

11

NewsPeople Kerrane backs reform of ‘exorbitant’ childcare sector

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has called on the Government to back her party’s plans to reform the childcare sector to be fairer for parents, staff, and providers.

Deputy Kerrane has called on all TDs in Roscommon/Galway to support the Sinn Féin motion published this week.

She said: “The cost of childcare has been allowed to spiral to eye-watering amounts which simply aren’t affordable for ordinary families.

“Ireland has some of the highest childcare costs in the EU. This is unfair and unsustainable. Without affordable childcare, many parents and mothers in particular, are being forced out of the workplace.

“Sinn Féin has brought forward an ambitious and comprehensive plan for the childcare sector. It includes yearly funding increases for the sector to ensure long-term sustainability, as well as reducing fees charged to parents to ensure lower, fairer costs for families.

“It also pledges better pay and working conditions for staff. Workers in the early years sectors are highly qualified and skilled, yet are often paid minimum wage. They deserve fair pay.

“I am calling on TDs in this constituency to back this motion when it comes to the Dáil on Thursday (today)”.

Serving delicious Carvery & Lounge Food daily at the Abbey Hotel Grealy’s 4* Abbey Hotel, Roscommon have reopened and we’re delighted to welcome back all our wonderful customers.

We are serving delicious Carvery & Lounge Food

daily. Carvery lunch is served from 12.30 pm to 3 pm (Monday to Friday) and 12.30 pm-4 pm at weekends.

We are also offering diners an exciting new-season

Lounge Food Menu which is available seven days a week days from 4-9 pm.

Early Bird menu from 3 pm. Booking is advised, especially at weekends. Tel: 090 6626240.

Afternoon Tea at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon We are now also taking bookings for Afternoon Tea at the Abbey.

Guests can enjoy a delightful selection of sweet and savoury treats including chicken, cranberry and Pinwheel wraps, freshly-baked buttermilk scones and a selection of decadent desserts including mouthwatering chocolate truffle slices, summer berry crème patisserie tartlets and a fresh fruit meringue Nest. Add a glass of wine, a snipe of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic cocktail and make the most of our relaxing and luxurious ambience here at the Abbey this summer. Perfect for a Girls’ Day out!

Afternoon Tea is available Tuesday to Thursday and prior booking is essential. Tel: 090 6626240 (or email events@ abbeyhotel.ie).

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for further updates and special offers.

12

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

The B E FO

G

D News page

RE

AFTE

R

Elphin brothers thank community as they return to new-look home Elphin brothers Padraig and Vivian MacDermott have been through an ordeal – but there’s good news this week.

On the night of January 6th, the brothers’ home was destroyed by fire. It prompted a great community response and show of support for Padraig and Vivian.

Now the brothers have moved back

into their newly-renovated home, and can look forward to putting this ordeal behind them.

Padraig and Vivian, from Clooneybrennan, Elphin, are hugely grateful for all the help they’ve received from their neighbours and friends in the community of Elphin, Strokestown and indeed further afield.

In the aftermath of the fire on

January 6th, a fundraising committee was formed. Fundraising projects included a hugely successful Benefit Night in An Bothar Rua, a Facebook fundraiser, and the opening of a bank account for individual donations.

In total, over €45,000 was raised to enable Padraig and Vivian to get back into their home.

Thanks to the generosity of multiple

donors, the MacDermott brothers’ home house has now been fully restored to its former state, both internally and externally. Both Vivian and Padraig are very thankful to each and every person who donated time and money to the fund and to all those who completed work on the house.

They are delighted and excited to be back home again.

The brothers wish to invite anyone who would like to see the finished house to call to Clooneybrennan, Elphin this coming Friday, 24th of July from 7 pm. They also wish to express once again their genuine and heartfelt thanks for the generosity of everyone involved. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin.

Rooskey community expresses thanks to kind-hearted Lenka

James Morrisroe, Chief Flying Instructor at Tibohine Flying Club, presents a cheque for over €3,000 to Angelina Nugent, CEO, Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

Annual Charity Fly-In raises over €3,000 for Hospice

The Tibohine Flying School Annual Charity Fly-In and BBQ, in conjunction with Irish Vintage RSCC Club, recently raised over €3,000 for Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.

The unique event was held on July 11th and 12th at the flying school near Frenchpark and people came from across the region and beyond over the weekend.

A total of €3,165 was raised over the weekend which will help fund palliative care services in the local community and support the construction of the Roscommon Hospice, which is due to be finished next year.

James Morrisroe, Chief Flying Instructor at Tibohine Flying Club, thanked all those who helped him to make the weekend a success, including McLoughlin’s Applegreen Filling Station in Ballaghaderreen (who sponsored the burgers and bakery items), Ciaran McBrien (who sponsored burger buns), and Ros PlantHire and Sherpack in

Longford, who sponsored disposable cups. James also thanked all the ladies who supplied baking for the two days and who did all the cooking and catering. He extended a special word of thanks to the club members who gave their time and helped out with the organisation and preparation for the event.

CEO of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Foundation Martina Jennings said: “We are so grateful to James and all at Tibohine Flying Club for running this event for us again this year. It is not the first time they have supported Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. The Fly-in has raised vital funds to provide palliative care services in the community.

“We are also delighted that our Roscommon Hospice is continuing at pace and will be finished next year. The €6m it will cost to construct will all come from income raised through fundraising”.

Lenka Karaskova is a native of the Czeck Republic who has been resident in Rooskey for the past three years. She loves rural life and is enthralled by the peace and quiet of the countryside and its warm, welcoming people. Life in Rooskey reminds her of her native place too, as she comes an agricultural family herself.

When Rooskey Town and Country Development received funding from Longford County Council for works on a roundabout in the area, it was very welcome. However, despite the improvement this led to, there were still some unsightly and overgrown features.

That’s when Lenka stepped in! During lockdown, she took it upon herself to cut the grass, rake and remove it, and generally keep the area looking beautiful – all because she loves gardening, and takes pride in how her locality looks.

Lenka, who lives with her son (26), loves Rooskey and is a familiar, friendly and popular member of the community.

Local community activist Andrew Reynolds told the Roscommon People: “Lenka’s great voluntary work over the lockdown period was inspirational. The people of Rooskey really appreciate her and all that she has done. We would like to take this opportunity to thank her most sincerely

for what she has done for the local community”.

13

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople Episode Two (Part 1)

Available to listen on Sound Cloud and on roscommonpeople.ie

‘They said we need one or two older fellas…Padraig Oates will use you sparingly… you won’t have to do the heavy training…(but) sure Oatesy only knows one thing… savagery!’

KEVIN McSTAY – A FOOTBALL LIFE Paul Healy talks to Kevin McStay about his upbringing in Ballina; his playing career; joining Roscommon Gaels; All-Ireland success with St. Brigid’s…and the Mayo management fiasco

PART 2…from this Sunday McStay on…Fergal O’Donnell, the pressures of managing Roscommon, Connacht final glory, the Super 8s…and why he stepped away

14

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople National Heritage Week 2020 – it’s happening!

National Heritage Week 2020 is happening – and it’s a Heritage Week with a difference! With ongoing restrictions on social gatherings due to Covid-19, this year, we’re not calling for events, instead, we’re inviting you to organise a project that explores a topic associated with this year’s theme – ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’.

To help you think about what aspect of heritage you might want to explore under the theme of ‘Heritage and Education’, we have developed three broad sub-themes which can be considered for projects – Heritage on your doorstep, Relearning skills from our heritage and the heritage of education.

If you would like to get involved as a project organiser, here’s how! Go to https://www.heritageweek.ie/. Create your project organiser login, register your project idea and submit your completed project. Project submissions will open in July and will close at 12 noon on 4th August. The most engaging projects will be featured on the Heritage Week website during Heritage Week 2020, and will be considered for a Heritage Week 2020 Award. There is also a County award this year!

“It’s time to get involved in hosting a project for National Heritage Week 2020. If you are planning a project please keep in touch so we can help you publicise your project” said Nollaig Feeney, Heritage Officer, Roscommon County Council. You can contact the Heritage Office by email: heritage@roscommoncoco.ie or by phone: 090 6637271.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Pamela Blake @PamelaABlake I don’t know what it is. Put ‘Em Under Pressure makes me cry at the best of times. Today, it’s like a river of emotions...a feeling of pure pride, joy, nostalgia....but hope that we can be that brilliant again some day #ripjackcharlton – Emotional for everyone, as Big Jack was laid to rest earlier this week. RIP Emma Wilkinson @emmawilkitv Thank you to all who came out to pay tribute to Grandad Jack today – we were all overwhelmed. He would

have been absolutely thrilled and so proud – The Charlton family says thanks Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump So we catch Obama & Biden, not to even mention the rest of their crew, SPYING on my campaign, AND NOTHING HAPPENS? I hope not! If it were the other way around, 50 years for treason. NEVER FORGET!!!!

– Zzzzz…

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan There is some idiotic talk about Mícheál Martin’s FF leadership. He remains head and shoulders above his contemporaries – The genial political commentator… comments on politics

Jimbob Dee @Jimdee6 So I can head off to places such as Italy Greece and Cyprus but I can’t go to the local pub for a pint amazing carry on #GreenList – Natives getting restless Bearly Bob @sphbcbikers If I can’t travel from Ireland to Australia to visit my parents in their 80’s then you can miss your holiday trip to Lanzarote and alike. #GreenList – The ‘Green List’ debate has raged all week…

Rachel Carson Pilkington @RCPilkington Here’s my #GreenList Ireland – Mmnn…makes a lot of sense

GAA, rugby, cricket, racing, blacksmiths, cockfighting…and the Parnell Split Before his death in 1953, George N. Geraghty wrote extensively about his memories of life in Roscommon Town (and environs) in the early years of the 20th century…the Roscommon People is pleased to serialise these fascinating memories

ROSCOMMON AS IT WAS ~ George N Geraghty ~

Sport The games played in Roscommon at that time were in plenty.

Hurling, Gaelic football (21-a-side), rugby, cricket and skating.

The hurling and Gaelic football was very crude. What a change today and how proud Roscommon should be to have a team of All-Ireland champions. Needless to say the rugby team was confined to the so-called gentry of the town. Teams from Castlebar and Athlone were frequent visitors. The playing ground was in Harrison’s field on the site of the church of the Sacred Heart.

Cricket was played on the field now St. Coman’s Park. Tom Collins kept the pitch in order and the English Military team from Athlone played several matches here. I remember skating over the Lough here for six weeks without a break. At night, tar barrels were lighted around on the verge of the ice and a very gay crowd assembled to take part in this very healthy sport. We had some very good skaters: Bob Crosbie, E.P. Murray, Charlie O’Keefe, Pat Doran, Johnie Raftery, I.I. McDermott, now Monsignor McDermott, Vicar General St. John’s, Newfoundland.

Pat Doran was a big man and the slogan ‘Pat Doran was in on it’ meant to the boys that the ice was strong enough. I remember the first cycle race. It was held on the field which is now St. Coman’s Park. The Dunlop tyre had not arrived, so we had solid tyre and cushion tyres, and different makes of bikes including the high cycle (now known as the ‘old penny farthing’). The big wheel was about four feet six inches high and it took some doing to mount it.

Race meetings in Lenabane What a races day meant to the town I can hardly describe – the one day in the year that was looked forward to by every man, woman and child, and the crowd that came for the races.

For weeks before, there were great preparations. The men having new suits made, the women and children, new dresses.

The tailors and shoemakers working night and day, and the shopkeepers getting in extra stock of goods.

All the houses newly painted and white-washed, the hackney cars and carriages painted. The arrival of the racehorses by train the day before. All the good judges, picking out winners as the horses passed through the streets.

Before midday the town would be thronged, a long procession of hackney cars plying to and from the railway station to the course at Lenabane, all covered with dust. Then, a continual stream of people walking from the market square across the Lough fields to the course.

Pictured is Main Street, Roscommon.

Picture courtesy of Pat Hughes

On the course was a gathering beyond description. All sorts of tents and marquees, providing eating and drinking of every sort – hot crubeens (pigs’ feet), loaf bread, ginger cake, toast cakes, sugar stick, hard drinks and soft drinks, roulette tables, shooting galleries, three-card tricks, fiddlers, pipers, bookies and welshers and pickpockets. Most of the crowd paid very little attention to the horse racing, they were out for the day, picnicking. In the evening, the town trade was at its peak, plenty of money spent – Tofts Hobby Horses did a roaring trade.

Blacksmiths The blacksmith trade in those days was very progressive, as horses were in great demand for all farm work, and transport of every kind. John Caulfield, Pat Croghan and his brother Thomas, Pat Tighe and Pat Kelly were outstanding tradesmen. Not alone could they make and fit perfect shoes, they were also veterinarians, and many a valuable horse they cured. Veterinary surgeons were few in those days.

The Cooke family did a brisk trade making nails; three brothers, George, Eddie and Willie, made boot-nails, slating nails and holdfasts, etc. They worked in a small forge at the back of their dwelling on the Pound Road, now Convent Road, and another nailer, Johnnie Carr, carried on his trade in Castle Street.

Cockfighting was prevalent at the time. George Cooke was

called, ‘The Heeler’; he was an expert at fitting on the steel spurs on the fighting cocks.

Parliamentary elections

The elections in those days were hectic affairs. The Parnell split brought about a very bad feeling among the people, and what was it all for? To elect and send Irishmen to the British House of Parliament – as if they could achieve much to benefit Ireland. No doubt some very brilliant Irishmen attended as members of the British Parliament.

But before they took their seats, they first had to swear an oath of allegiance to the German-bred Queen Victoria, the same woman that would, if she could, have exterminated every man, woman and child in Ireland. Yet still, she could always count on having sixty to seventy thousand Irishmen in the English forces – and when the same Irishmen were out fighting the small band of farmers in South Africa, she made the noble concession of allowing the Irishmen in her army to wear the Shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day. It took the brave men of 1916 to put an end to all that, and may God rest them.

Well, let us forget the past elections and be proud of the way elections are carried out today, when every voter is free to cast his vote for any candidate he thinks will best serve his country.

(Series continues in coming weeks)

Update from Heritage Group…

Dear Editor, In ‘Roscommon As It Was’ in your edition of 10 July 2020, there was a reference to fireplaces at the Boys School. We wish to point out that one of the fireplaces mentioned is still in situ. It is made of brick and dressed in plaster. An appearance of a gothic design is given. It was conserved in recent years by Roscommon Heritage Group.

The quoin stones were used in the Famine Memorial at the Sacred Heart Home whilst the entrance doorways to the ‘Boys’ and ‘Girls’ sections were incorporated in newer structures.

One doorway is in the wall overlooking the seated area near Tom Foxe’s Pub on the Athlone Road, while the other one is in the Famine Memorial.

These stones were reused by Roscommon Heritage Group at the time of the school’s demolition. We continue our work on conservation around the town with the financial support of the public.

Yours sincerely, Theresa Murray, Secretary, Roscommon Heritage Group

15

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

ABBEYTOWN, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 6625940.

Email: info@molloysbakery.ie • Website: : www.molloysbakery.ie

Reopening Roscommon: Helen Jollivet pictured at work in the charity shop in Church Street, Roscommon.

Picture: Michael McCormack

Update from Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon

It has been a pleasure welcoming back parishioners the past few days. Thank you for your support.

Weekend Masses for this weekend 25th/26th July arranged on a station area basis are as follows – Saturday: 7 pm (Vigil Mass) Abbey Street & Church Street; Sunday: 9 am Boher & Gallowstown; 11.30 am Ardkeel/Ballybride.

Our new Mass schedule for next week is as follows: Monday 11 am, Tuesday, Wednesday and

Thursday 8 am & 11 am, Friday 11 am, Saturday 11 am and 7 pm (Vigil), Sunday 9 am and 11.30 am.

You can view our Masses online at churchtv.ie/ roscommon or tune into parish radio 105.9FM. N.B. Weekday Masses are open to anyone. However, there may be restrictions in the event of a funeral taking place at the 11 Mass.

Mass also continues to be celebrated in Kilteevan Church at 10 am on Sundays.

COFFEE SHOP NOW OPEN OPENING TIMES Monday to Saturday 9am to 4pm Sunday 9am to 1.30pm

You can book a table in advance by calling – 090 66 25940

We make all types of Celebration Cakes (Communion, Confirmation and Christening) now available to order

Take away Tea/ Coffee, Sandwiches and Wraps

REGAN’S Gastro Pub & Restaurant THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON

To pre-book your table, please call David on 090 66 25339 or 086 2499619 Social distancing/Covid-19 guidelines in place

Thank you for your custom and support

‘Fine food gift box for that someone special in your life’

Thank you to all our loyal Customers for your support ‘Keep our town in business by keeping your business in town’

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

16

NewsPeople

Conexão Brasileira BRAZILIAN connection with Catia Da Nova

H

aving decided to bring the kids for day trips at weekends, and then having spent Sunday afternoon grass-cutting, we ended up having our weekend day trip on Monday! Good idea, we thought. The roads will be quiet, we thought. Beaches will be much quieter than a Saturday or Sunday, we thought.

The kids did a quick bit of research and discovered that one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches is in a neighbouring county of Mayo. That’s where we’ll go!

Handy that it was so close, considering we knew we couldn’t get going until lunch-time. ‘’Where is this beach?’’ we asked. ‘’It’s called Sliver Strand and it’s somewhere near Louisburgh’’, came the reply. So off we went. The roads were busy and traffic was moving quite slow as far as Castlebar. There were plenty of tourists around. Westport was full of them, great to see the town so busy but one couldn’t help but wonder how this will affect the Covid numbers. Most of the tourists we saw seemed to be middle-aged Europeans! Restaurants and food-serving pubs seemed to be doing a brisk trade.

Yet it was really strange to see some well-known pubs, which are famed for traditional music sessions and rely on tourism for most of their business, with their doors firmly closed. What does the future hold for them?

Anyway, we continued on our journey and arrived in Louisburgh. Lots of traffic and plenty of visitors. We were waiting nearly 10 minutes in the town centre to get past the roadworks, the tourists will love that! We headed towards Leenane

and knew our turn for Silver Strand was to the right. It wasn’t signposted but Google Maps knew the way! Although a bit out of the way, when we went down the final hill and the beach became clearly visible, we knew immediately it was worth the effort. It’s a stunning place. The scenery is breathtaking. The sky was blue and the sun was hot. A nice breeze took the sting out of it and, best of all, the beach wasn’t packed like most of the more obvious strands. I know it sounds silly but it’s a very spacious beach! Literally acres of golden sands and great sand dunes for the kids to run free.

We had a great afternoon there and would highly recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind travelling the extra miles to get there. For the return journey we chose the route back through Connemara, always a delightful drive. Maybe it was getting late, but the towns we passed through en route to Galway city were quite quiet! Having stopped for food, no queues, in Oughterard, we then took a spin along Salthill promenade, it was after 10 pm and it was pretty busy there. But then, I guess Salthill is always busy!

A quick dart around town and we were on our way back to Roscommon. The boring motorway drive was particularly difficult having spent the day in the company of such wonderful scenery. Getting home late there were some tired heads in the car when we arrived. But, having spent so much time at home since March, the kids have gotten well used to Tuesday morning lie-ins.

For my fellow Brazilians who haven’t yet ventured to the more remote parts of County Mayo, do yourselves a favour and discover this very beautiful part of the world. But, please take your time and take care on the roads. I’ve just been reading the horrific story of how five children from the same family have died in a terrible crash in France. Many people in Ireland are holidaying at home this year. The roads are very busy, particularly in tourist areas. Slow down and enjoy the journey, get there safely and enjoy all your chosen destination has to offer!

Information: Reminding everyone that the Back to School Allowance is open for application until 30th September. You may apply online

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday 26 July 2020 Do you love His words more than gold and silver, as we sing in today’s Psalm?

Would you, like the characters in the Gospel today, sell all that you have in order to possess the kingdom He promises to us? If God were to grant any wish, would you follow Solomon’s example in today’s First Reading – asking not for a long life or riches, but for wisdom to know God’s ways and to desire His will?

The background for today’s Gospel, as it has been for the past several weeks, is the rejection of Jesus’ preaching by Israel. The kingdom of heaven has come into their midst, yet many cannot see that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises, a gift of divine compassion given that they – and we – might live.

We too must ever discover the kingdom anew, to find it as a treasure – a pearl of great price. By comparison with the kingdom, we must count all else as rubbish (see Philippians 3:8). And we must be willing to give up all that we have – all our priorities and plans – in order to gain it.

Jesus’ Gospel discloses what Paul, in today’s Epistle, calls the purpose of God’s plan (see Ephesians 1:4). That purpose is that Jesus would be the firstborn of many brothers.

His words give understanding to the simple, the childlike. As Solomon does today, we must humble ourselves before God, giving ourselves to His service.

Let our prayer be for an understanding heart, one that desires only to do His will.

We are called to love God, to delight in His law, and to forsake every false way.

And we are to conform ourselves daily ever more closely to the image of His Son. If we do this, we can approach His altar as a pleasing sacrifice, confident that all things work for the good – that we whom He has justified will also one day be glorified.

using your MyGovID account.

Also, please note that the wearing of masks is now mandatory in shops.

T

endo decidido levar as crianças para passeios de um dia nos fins de semana e depois de passar a tarde de domingo cortando a grama e mechendo no jardin, acabamos fazendo nossa viagem de fim de semana na segunda-feira! Foi uma boa ideia. Pensamos que as estradas estavam tranquilas e que as praias estariam muito mais tranquilas do que no sábado ou domingo. As crianças fizeram uma rápida pesquisa e descobriram que uma das praias mais bonitas da Irlanda fica na nossa região vizinha de Mayo. Ai é para onde nos vamos! Conveniente por estar tão perto, considerando que sabíamos que não poderíamos ir até depois do horaio do almoço. “Onde fica essa praia?”, Perguntamos. “Se chama Sliver Strand e fica em algum lugar perto de Louisburgh”, veio a resposta. Então lá se fomos nós.

As estradas estavam movimentadas e o tráfego estava se movendo bem devagar até Castlebar. Havia muitos turistas por ali.

Westport estava cheio deles, ótimo ver a cidade tão cheia, mas não da para deixar de imaginar como isso afetaria os números da Covid. A maioria dos turistas que vimos parecia ser europeus de idade media!

Restaurantes e pubs que servem comida são os que estão fazendo clientelas . No entanto, era realmente estranho ver alguns bares conhecidos, famosos pelas sessões de música tradicional e que dependem do turismo para a temporada, com as portas firmemente fechadas. O que o futuro reserva?

Enfim, continuamos nossa jornada e chegamos a Louisburgh. Muito tráfego e muitos visitantes. Ficamos esperando quase 10 minutos no centro da cidade para passar pelas obras nas estradas, os turistas vão adorar! Fomos em direção a Leenane e sabíamos que a nossa virada para Silver Strand era à direita. Não estava sinalizado, mas o Google Maps sabia o caminho! Embora um pouco fora do caminho, quando descemos a última serra a praia se tornou claramente visível, sabemos imediatamente que valeu a pena o esforço. Um lugar deslumbrante. O paisagen

é de tirar o fôlego. O céu estava azul e o sol estava quente. Uma brisa agradável e o melhor de tudo, a praia não estava cheia como a maioria das praias. Sei que parece bobagem, mas é uma praia muito espaçosa!

Literalmente quilometros de areias douradas e grandes dunas de areia para as crianças correrem livremente. Tivemos uma tarde maravilhosa e recomendamos para quem não se importa de percorrer quilômetros extras para chegar até lá. Para a viagem de volta, escolhemos a rota de volta por Connemara, que é sempre uma viagem agradável. Talvez estivesse ficando tarde, mas as cidades pelas quais passamos pelo caminho para a cidade de Galway estavam bastante tranquilas!

Depois de parar para comer algo, sem filas, em Oughterard, demos uma volta ao longo da orla de Salthill, passava-se das 22h e estava bastante cheio por lá. Mas acho que Salthill é sempre lotado!

Um rápida volta pela cidade e estávamos voltando para Roscommon. A chata volta pela rodovia foi particularmente difícil, depois de ter passado o dia na companhia de um cenário tão maravilhoso. Chegamos já tarde em casa, havia algumas cabeçinhas cansadas no carro quando chegamos. Mas, tendo passado tanto tempo em casa desde março, as crianças se acostumaram as manhas preguicosas da terça-feiras.

Para meus amigos brasileiros que ainda não se aventuraram a visitar os lugares mais remotos da região de Mayo, façam um favor e descubram; um dos lugares mais bonitos do mundo. Mas, por favor, tome seu tempo e tome cuidado nas estradas. Acabei de ler a história horrível de cinco crianças da mesma família morreram em um terrível acidente na França. Muitas pessoas na Irlanda irão passar as férias em casa, aqui no pais.

As estradas estão muito movimentadas, principalmente nas áreas turísticas.

Desacelere e aproveite a viagem, chegue lá com segurança e aproveite todo seu destino escolhido!

Informação: Lembrando a todos que o Back to School allowance estara aberto para aplicacao ate o dia 30 de Setembro. Voce pode estar aplicando online pelo site do MyGovID. Por favor,também notice que o uso de mascaras e obrigatorio em lojas.

Mothers ‘let down’ by failure to back maternity leave extension – Kerrane

– Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church) Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection Claire Kerrane TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection Claire Kerrane TD has expressed disappointment that TDs have “turned their backs on women” by voting against extending maternity leave by three months for women whose leave has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Deputy Kerrane had submitted a motion to grant this three-month extension to give mothers some muchneeded support amid the unique challenges of having a newborn baby during lockdown due to difficulties in securing childcare due to the pandemic.

She said: “I know that so many mothers, and in particular those who are part of the Extend Maternity Leave

2020 Campaign Group, will be bitterly disappointed with the vote.

“They worked so hard reaching out to their elected representatives, sharing their stories and their difficulties.

Despite their efforts, this Government has ignored their pleas for help.

“The Government’s amendment, which passed in the House, offers no solution to the issues facing mothers and families. It does nothing for mothers whose maternity leave is coming to an end and who have no-one to look after their baby.

“I want to reassure these mothers that we will not give up. The campaign will increase and intensify in the coming days and weeks”.

17

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING &

RURAL LIVING 12 PAGE

SUPPLEMENT

18

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING Harry Murray Agri Contractor For all your contracting needs

Hedge cutting (Flail & Saw)

Slurry Spreading (Dribble Bar & Splash Plate)

Also provided: Reseeding/cover crops/tillage with a variety of ways of cultivating, Lime supplied & spread, stone raking, spraying, dung spreading, precision pit silage, round baling & stacking.

Tedding also provided.

Mobile: (087) 2323933 or (087) 7966039 Knockcroghery, Co.Roscommon

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment.

We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food.

Time to think farming! You’ve got the power!

MIRIAM KERINS on why young people should consider a career in farming…

We all know that farmers and the farming industry play a pivotal role in our lives. In fact, when we consider nearly every morsel we eat comes to us either directly or indirectly as a result of our farmers, you could say these men and women of agriculture have the power to not only shape our communities, but to make them.

In addition, given that figures quoted by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine state the ‘agri-food sector employs 173,000’ workers, making a contribution of ‘€13.7 billion to our national export economy’ (in 2018), it would follow that farmers are likely the lifeblood of our country’s economy.

However, despite the importance of this industry, it seems that farming is losing its grip on young people at an alarming rate.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a pot pourri of reasons why young people should

consider carving out a career in farming.

1: While it’s certainly not a 9 to 5 job, a farmer is his/her own boss. You could say he/she is an enterprising entrepreneur.

2: A farmer has the unique opportunity of dividing his/her time between working indoors and outdoors. Yes, we know, they often have to work in all manner of weathers, but hey, these heroes are literally feeding the world!

3: A financially astute farmer will always diversify, and, given the opportunity, could develop and market niche products to generate not just extra income, but provide local jobs within their community. We don’t wish to dwell on a negative here, (we are trying to promote farming as a career), but as various subsidies are falling, we’d hope the savvy farmer would always see the benefits of creating an extra income stream.

4: Utilising any extra land to develop a leisure facility for families or opening up an organic shop selling cheese, yogurt and ice cream, are always possibilities.

5: Vacant outbuildings could be properly renovated and used as bespoke dog, cat and small animal boarding kennels while owners go on holiday…the prospects are endless. Then again, farmers could rent out those outbuildings to local art and craft groups offering workshops, etc. Throw in a little artisan coffee shop specialising in locally-baked cakes and scones and you’d be giving those ‘city slickers’ the whole ‘escape-to-the-countryexperience’.

6: Why stop there…you’re a young entrepreneur, think bigger! Why not double up with Roscommon County Council’s recreation, heritage and tourism experts and find out how you can work together to provide walking talks and tours for all those ramblers who’ve ditched the car/bike, bought the hiking boots and taken up trekking across the county during lockdown!

So, you see, with just a small bit of innovation, diversification, alteration and cooperation, we hope we’ve managed to provide the youth of Roscommon to think big and aim high when carving out a career on the farm!

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

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

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

W: www.mannioninsurance.ie

Your farm understood

At Mannion Insurances we understand what farmers want Email: info@mannioninsurance.ie

Mobile:

086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A as Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

19

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Covid biggest concern for agri-food sector Covid-19 has been ranked as the highest priority risk facing the agri-food sector, according to ‘Bord Bia’s Risk Readiness Radar’, the most robust and accurate risk assessment of the Irish food and drink sector ever undertaken.

Launched by Bord Bia on Thursday last, the report comprehensively captures the high-level risks facing the industry across six key areas: Covid-19, Brexit, challenges to market diversification, sustainability pressures, consumer insights & innovation, and talent management. This in-depth industry analysis captures the level of risk exposures facing the industry, and in turn converts insights into interventions via Bord Bia’s supports and programmes to help industry mitigate defined risks.

A total of 128 Irish food, drink, and horticulture companies, representing 51% of total exports, took part in the survey,

which was conducted over a four-week period in March and April this year.

Some 91% of respondents scored the trade implications of Covid-19 as either a high or a very high priority. Export market diversification was ranked the second biggest focus area for the industry as

a whole, with 71% of respondents actively seeking to expand into new markets in response to Brexit.

Covid-19 continues to dominate concerns among Irish companies and fears that it will prompt a recession are voiced as a key concern by 75% of

respondents. When asked to rank the top concerns for businesses as a result of Covid-19, recession was ranked to have the highest significance, with over 70% of respondents ranking it either significant or very significant.

Meanwhile, companies with a turnover below €1

Pictured are Shane Hamill, Strategic Projects Manager, Bord Bia and Brendan Gleeson, Secretary General, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine who presented the report findings during an agri-food webinar. For more details see bordbia.ie.

Photo Chris Bellew / Fennells

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm

million are more concerned about rising unemployment levels which in turn will impact consumer spending.

Other Covid-related concerns such as staffing issues, significant decrease in food service demand, disruption to supply chains, staffing levels or maintaining production were also ranked as being of high significance, with over 50% of respondents ranking these risks as being of high or very high significance.

Brexit preparedness continues Amidst the disruption of Covid-19, indications show that Irish food and drink manufacturers are continuing to focus on Brexit by proactively identifying and, where possible, mitigating Brexit related risks.

Over 91% of respondents said they had made progress in relation to their Brexit preparedness over the past 12 months.

Dermot Kelly & Sons l Silage Tedding l Spraying l Square Baling l Combine Harvesting

Serving South Roscommon & East Galway area

(087) 6776731

Forest Thinning, Clearfell & Road Construction Call Edward Gallagher 086 0256911

KEEGAN FEEDS Kepak Road, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Phone: 090 66 63738. Mobile: 086 8963620 • email: adrian@keegantractors.com

MEALRISER MEAL RISER

Just some of the health and safety benefits of using the Meal Riser: l Damage to Back from over stretching l Damage to musculoskeletal system from over stretching l Respiratory difficulties/ aggravation of asthma and other pulmonary conditions l Vertigo and dizziness/ light headedness causes by bending into bin l Damage to breast tissue/ soreness of breasts Easy l Claustrophobia Payment l

Turning your back on unpredictable livestock while hanging into the bin Plan in l No more contamination of feed by waste meal left in the bottom of bin place l Facilitates persons of any body size l No more dangerous home made solutions such as steps, tipping the bin on its side, wedging with blocks etc Can be fitte d l Considerable less dust in eyes and mouth into existing l No more down time through speeding up feeding rate JFC Round Bins

Awardwinning product!

NO LEANING

NO TILTING

NO SHOVELING

EASY!!

20

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Pat Lavin PLANT HIRE

Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2515907 Hedgecutting (Saw and Flail) l Round Baling l Trailing Shoe Slurry Spreading l

CATHAOIRLEACH

Laurence Fallon Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

Tel. 090 6488232 Mobile: 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie

Please support local businesses

Cllr. Marty

McDERMOTT Leas Cathaoirleach

Tel. 087 3466064 Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184

Please farm safely!

Mervyn and Tadhg Auchmuty pictured busy at work on their farm near Lecarrow.

Local farm life continues amid global lockdown! < DAN DOONER

Frank Nally

Phone: 087 2348206

Kieran Raftery Agri Creggs, Co. Roscommon Tel.: 087 9125510 Mowing l Round Bailing l Wrapping l Slurry Spreading l Ploughing SPECIAL RATES AVAILABLE l Power Harowing, l Fertisliser l Spreading l Weed Licking l

Noel Carr + Co. Chartered Accountants Castle Street, Roscommon

PHONE: (090) 66 26073 Fax: (090) 66 25023 Email: noelcarr@noelcarr.ie

Mervyn Auchmuty was making use of the good weather this week in Lecarrow. The 40-year-old farmer was preparing machinery ahead of another busy evening in the field when the Roscommon People dropped by in order to get the lie of the land.

“Half of our land here is in grain while the rest is sheep and cattle.

We are also contractors ourselves, so at the moment we’re busy with silage,” he said.

In fact it’s through his contracting work that Mervyn has perhaps most noticed the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“One of the biggest changes brought about by the virus is that we weren’t able to go to people’s houses for dinner or for a chat.

We are being very careful and continue to take all the necessary precautions. We sanitise our hands getting in and out of the tractor, and practice social distancing.

There hasn’t really been a massive change for us in terms of the work we do but the social effects have been noticeable.

“We were in lambing season when the lockdown started in March and so we noticed a change in how things were done when we went to Coffey’s Merchants in Lecarrow or even to the vets or marts. People are now standing outside more and waiting to be seen. Day to day, we practice social distancing like everyone else but you’re pretty isolated anyway when you’re working on the farm.

Mervyn and Errol Auchmuty at work near Lecarrow on Tuesday evening.

We’ve been lucky that way and it would give you an appreciation for those who have been working on the frontline,” he said.

Mervyn’s wife, Nicola, is employed by SuperValu and is therefore part of the army of essential workers which has kept Ireland moving since March. With schools and childminding facilities closed and with both parents working, there has been added pressure on the Auchmutys.

“That has probably been our biggest challenge so far. Our kids couldn’t go into the childminder and my mother is high risk, so obviously she couldn’t take them or visit. Working on the farm, I’m never too far away and our kids, Abby and Tadhg, have walkie-talkies and the phone so they could keep in contact with their grandmother and with me.

“On the other hand, with the schools closed we had extra help

from one of our younger employees who was supposed to be doing his Leaving Certificate. He worked with us full-time but it’s difficult to plan because nobody seems to know when the schools will reopen,” Mervyn said.

Phase Three saw a lifting of some of the earlier restrictions; childminding has resumed and those considered ‘high risk’ are no longer cocooning. Mervyn is happy that things have eased up – but warned against complacency.

“None of us know what will happen in the future but sometimes I think that going back to Phase Two wouldn’t be a bad idea if it helped some people to realise that this virus is real and (that) it’s not going away,” he said.

When it comes to the overall effect on Irish agriculture, Mervyn says the future landscape is an uncertain one.

“At the moment cattle and sheep

prices continue to rise. Phase One was very difficult, and with the likes of Supermac’s and McDonald’s closing there was a massive impact on the price of cattle. I don’t really know what will happen in the future but there has been a market in Britain because a lot of their factories were shut down due to Covid,” he said.

Mervyn believes those working in agriculture are taking the threat of Covid-19 seriously and highlights hand sanitisation and the wearing of face masks as crucial precautions in the fight against the virus. He said that those living and working alone were however feeling the effects of social distancing measures.

“I see it with bachelor farmers and other people who are living on their own. Their social life, which would have involved going to Mass, weddings, pubs and visiting places like the post office, has been turned upside down.

“Younger people with families were okay during lockdown but it has taken a toll on the kids.

They’ve lost their routine and have become a bit clingy, which is understandable, because they’re seeing all the coverage on the news and listening to people talking about it every day…and they’re scared.

“But we’re very lucky to be living here in County Roscommon. Just imagine how difficult it would have been to practice social distancing or to self-isolate in a big city,” he concluded.

21

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Inclusion of young bulls in Bord Bia grass-fed standard is the correct move – IFA IFA President Tim Cullinan said the change by Bord Bia to include young bulls in its grass-fed standard is the right thing to do for farmers.

Following consultation with the IFA over recent weeks, Tim Cullinan said Bord Bia has now agreed to the following changes to the grass-fed standard: To adapt the scope of the grass-fed standard to accommodate young bull beef. This change means young bull beef will now be eligible to be included in the grass-fed standard, along with steers, heifers and cows.

To provide that the first nine months of an animal’s life (including young bulls) will be deemed as grass-fed regardless of whether they were on QA (Quality Assured) or non-QA farm(s).

To treat young bulls the same as other animal categories with their qualification as grass-fed being dependent on meeting the criteria of the standard concerning the proportion of grass in the diet

and grazing days.

Tim Cullinan said IFA could never agree to the exclusion of young bull beef from the grass-fed standard and insisted that this category of animal was treated along similar lines to all other types.

“I want to acknowledge the fact that Bord Bia has listened to reason on this matter and adopted a flexible approach in order that to maximise the proportion of beef that will qualify as grass-fed.

“Not all young bull beef systems will fit into the grass-fed standard, but if farmers operate their system to meet the criteria, they will now be able to qualify.

“These changes apply to the Bord Bia grass-fed standard.

Bord Bia had originally intended this to be the basis for Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) application. However, this needs far more discussion before it proceeds any further,” he said.

Waldron ANTHONY Cllr.

Feeling vulnerable and alone, need some help? – the Waldron team are only a phone call away, don’t hesitate to call ...

086 7866774 Always ready to help!

We will survive this too shall pass!

Please have your Eircode to hand

CASTLEREA Farm Supplies For Full Range of Animal Feeds at Keenest Prices Call to St. Patrick Street, Castlerea

Telephone: 094 9620420

Steel Sheeting Profilers

& Agricultural Supplies

Williamstown, Co. Galway. Tel. 094 9643355 www.dgroofing.ie

Suppliers of stakes, wire, gates, timber, cement, nuts and bolts and all your agri needs

ROOFING – CLADDING – AGRI GRANT APPROVED

Manufacturers & Supplier of Box Profile & Corrugated Cladding – Purlins – Fencing – Gutters – Steel Frame Buildings – Polyester & PVC coated – Single Skin – Non-drip – Insulated Panel – Wide range of colours avaiable – Flashings made-to-order

MICHAEL: 086 6012041 DECLAN: 086 2543304 Fax: 094 9643377 Email: michael@dgroofing.ie

Farm Feed – Bags & Bulk – Maxol Lubricants – Hydraulic Hosing & Repairs

22

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING Michael & Conor

SLYMAN

Plant Hire & Groundworks 087 7726301 087 2490146

Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498

F: (090) 6665590 E: info@liddyneilan.ie

Practice areas include: • Conveyancing • Family Law • Probate, Wills & Estate Planning • Personal Injury Claims and Litigation*

*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

WARD BROS QUARRY

SUPPLIERS OF ALL TYPES OF: • Stone • Sand & Gravel • Topsoil • Readymix • Plant Hire

FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL

071 96 33222

E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com

Seamus Feeney Agri Consultant

Rooskey Co.Roscommon

• General Agricultural Advice • Farm Accounts • Preparation of Carbon Navigator Plans

FOR APPOINTMENT

Office: 071 96 58931 Mobile: 086 807 17 57

M

ulhern Bro Agri Contractors Ltd.

S

Kilmore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Telephone: Tommie: (087) 9009067 or Michael: (087) 1422312 Mowing, Round Baling, Drawing, Stacking, Hedgecutting, Saw/Flail, Fertilizer & Lime Spreading & Fencing

Martin Connolly

Milltown Castleplunkett Co. Roscommon

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

Family farms must be protected in transformative period ahead Voluntary capping of direct payments under new CAP doesn’t go far enough, writes Independent TD MICHAEL FITZMAURICE < MICHAEL FITZMAURICE

As details of a new CAP Budget emerged this week, I was left disappointed on a number of fronts – starting with the fact that the budget has been cut by approximately 10%.

But I also believe that the proposal for the voluntary capping of direct payments at €100,000 doesn’t go far enough. As part of the proposed measure, member states would be able to introduce the cap on a voluntary basis and it would only impact the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) scheme – which will replace the current Basic Payment Scheme. Labour-related costs could also be deducted from the BISS prior to the cap being implemented.

As part of Government formation talks earlier this year, I proposed that the maximum any recipient should receive from grants – Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 combined – should be €50,000… with the only exception arising when temporary emergency schemes are introduced to combat weather-related difficulties or prolonged periods of poor prices.

This would ensure that there would be more money in the overall pot to divide among smaller family farms, which are the fabric of rural Ireland.

Irish agriculture faces a couple of transformative years ahead, given the challenges on the horizon. In order to overcome these successfully, family farms must be protected.

We have to get to a stage where a young

farmer on a 32-hectare farm who is in receipt of BPS, ANC, a proper environmental scheme, a sheep welfare scheme and a suckler cow scheme is in receipt of a minimum of €20,000 per annum. Given the age profile of farmers at the moment, I feel the introduction of a scheme to encourage the handover of the farm to the younger generation would be hugely beneficial.

I also welcome the fact that a new REPS-type environmental scheme is being introduced, but await further details of how it will be rolled out and implemented. When it comes to designated lands, I have called for an initial fund of €10 million to be allocated to the National Parks and Wildlife Services in order to compensate farmers – otherwise the designations must be lifted.

When it comes to the role of farmers in combatting climate change, I believe farmers are prepared to put their shoulders to the wheel.

But we cannot allow rural Ireland to be turned into a deserted theme park so it can act as a carbon sink for the rest of the country.

Farmers are willing to be proactive, but they must be compensated for their actions. Given the flexibility that should be provided to member states when implementing their tailored CAP strategic plans, I believe this Government needs to ensure that the ‘Forgotten Farmers’ who lost out under the last CAP programme need to be afforded the same terms and conditions as young farmers when accessing schemes.

Prices Over the past few months the price of beef and sheep has been to the fore, as livestock farmers struggle to make a living. It must be a priority for the new Government to implement legislation under the Unfair Trading Practices Directive.

Additional powers must be given the competition authority here in Ireland to investigate the different sectors, with the beef sector the first to be examined. Farmers must be able to make a sustainable living for their produce – especially given the high standards they adhere to.

Another key priority must be the introduction of a DNA-system for all cattle and sheep, so we can ensure that produce is truly Irish and that the ‘Farm to Fork’ marketing image is 100% traceable. There is also an onus on the Department of Agriculture to ensure that live exports continue.

As I have previously called for in the past, I still believe that a maximum stocking rate of two livestock units per hectare – across all enterprise types – must be implemented in order to keep nitrates under control. This would also impact feedlot operators as they would have the required amount of land to balance out their stock numbers over the course of the year.

Regarding the dairy sector, I am of the opinion that further research must be carried out to determine the best breeds to use on dairy cows to maximise the sale value of their calves, both for the export or domestic finishing systems. If a certain breed is found to produce calves that are not up to scratch when its beef traits are assessed, then that breed must be phased out inside a three-year period.

Finally, given that this week is Farm Safety Week, I would just like to remind farmers to avoid taking risks. While we may be rushing to harvest crops or cut silage before the rain comes, we cannot forfeit our safety or the safety of others in the process. * Michael Fitzmaurice is an Independent TD in Roscommon/Galway constituency

23

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Know the risks: Our top farm safety tips < MIRIAM KERINS

This week (from Monday 20th) we’re marking what has become known as our annual Farm Safety Week campaign. This is an event that places a focus on the potential accidents that can occur on a farm setting. It strives to highlight, not just the dangers and the pitfalls regarding farm work, but also to promote awareness and safeguards which can be out in place. With that in mind, we thought we’d put together a few easy-toadhere-to hints and tips that we hope will go some way towards keeping you and yours safe and well.

If you/any adult is operating machinery or a farm vehicle, please make sure to turn it off and remove the key, storing it safely and out of reach of children, before leaving your vehicle/ equipment unattended.

4 5

Never enter any enclosure where a bull is on the loose, or where an unrestrained cow is present with her calf.

Separate any ‘aggressive’ or ‘combative’ animals from the herd.

If you have firearms, store them safely and in accordance with regulations. Your community guard will be happy to offer you advice. Never store ammunition and firearms together, or within a

Leader Dog Food 12kg

€10 while stocks last

OPEN: Monday - Friday 9-6pm Saturday 9 – 4.30pm

Tommy Dillon Farm Buildings Kilkerrin Road Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

child’s/vulnerable person’s reach.

6

If you have a slurry pit on your farm, please be aware they pose a serious risk of both drowning and asphyxiation, (due to noxious gasses). Did you know that fourteen per cent of farm deaths between the years 2000 and 2009 happened as a result of slurry pit-related accidents?

7

If you are agitating slurry, make sure two people are present at all times; make sure both are wearing suitable/ sufficient breathing apparatus and never carry out any work on a slurry pit in a confined space or in still air conditions.

8

In order to ensure you’re visible at all times, it’s advisable that you, or anyone else around your farm, wears

either a hi viz jacket or high viz overalls.

9

If a shed/barn roof needs to be fixed, (and while we all like to economise), do make sure to ask an expert who is competent to work at a height, to tackle such tasks.

Remember readers, in 2019, a total of nineteen people sadly lost their lives as a result of farm accidents, with fourteen lives lost so far this year alone (tragically, including three children). To that end, the Roscommon People would ask all farmers and those working within the agriculture industry to not just simply be aware of the potential dangers facing them, but to do all in their power to put preventative strategies in place in order to avoid accidents, or worse, loss of life.

Farmers urged to respond to query notifications on Basic Payment Scheme

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is currently processing applications for the 2020 Basic Payment Schemes. As in previous years, this can entail queries being sent to farmers in order to complete their applications for payment.

The Department would like to remind farmers to respond promptly to any notifications they receive regarding their

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 6626680 Email: info@creanaccountants.ie

MART BUILDINGS, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 6625900

1 2 3

Accountants & Tax Consultants

Veterinary Supplies Ros

If you’re allowing children on or around the farm, make sure they’re supervised by a responsible adult at all times. We do understand that, as more children are at home during lockdown and school holidays, keeping an eye on them at all times can prove to be difficult; but remember, according to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), ‘the most vulnerable people on farms are young children and older adults’.

Please don’t allow or ask any child under the age of sixteen years to drive or operate farm machinery. For more detailed information consult www. rsa.ie

Crean & Co

application. A prompt response helps the Department to progress these issues in advance of the October 16th payment date.

In previous years, all such query notifications issued by post. However, in 2020 a certain number of query notifications will only be issued via email to a farmer’s approved agricultural advisor or by text message to farmers who have signed up to

the Department’s SMS service.

Those not signed up or who have not authorised an advisor will continue to receive postal notifications. This change will help to ensure BPS applications can be processed in an efficient manner as the Department continues to respond to Covid-19 related restrictions.

Should a farmer receive such a notification, full details can

be accessed on the agfood. ie system used for applying for BPS. Farmers who wish to contact the Department in relation to a notification can do so by ringing the Direct Payments Helpline at 076 106 4420 where a member of staff can advise on the matter. Where a query is not responded to, any follow-up query will issue by post.

Telephone: 094 9659187 Mobile: 087 2616955

PEAT BEDDING

Our Peat Bedding is highly absorbent and extremely comfortable for Dairy & Dry Stock, Calves & Poultry Available in small or bulk truck loads.

Peat can also be collected from our yard at €12.50 per cubic metre.

Silage Trailer Load 16x8x8 SPECIAL OFFER €350 – COLLECTED GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO STRAW

Contact Donal on 086 2721812

Gannon Agri Contractors Creggs, Co. Galway Tel: 086 2538169

Cllr. John Keogh Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Mobile: 087 6440534 Email: cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

Working with my colleagues and Minister Calleary for all the farmers in Co. Roscommon

24

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

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

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’

Contact Nuala 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

O’Sullivan Keegan & Co.

Auditors & Accountants

Contact us today for all your accounting needs Pearse House, 21 Pearse Street, Athlone, Co Westmeath Contact: Brian Lennon

(Tel) 090 64 93226 / 090 64 92701 (Fax) 090 64 44671 (Email) brian@osullivanfsc.com

Merry Christmas and wishing you a peaceful new year

Cllr DONAL

KILDUFF STAY SAFE ATHLONE LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

EVERYONE

Cllr. DONAL

Roscommon County Council

KILDUFF

INDEPENDENT

Best Wishes for 2020 INDEPENDENT E: Donal@kilduff.ie | T: 086 8579459 @DonalKilduff Donal Kilduff Web: www.kilduff.ie/donal

Athlone Local Electoral Area Roscommon County Council

CLLR. LIAM CALLAGHAN COUNCILLOR FOR THE BOYLE AREA

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

Councillor JOE MURPHY Telephone:

0861052197

FLASHBACK: Deputy Denis Naughten pictured launching new broadband mapping technology to speed up the construction phase of the National Broadband Plan with Ian Duggan, CEO, 4Site and Mayor of Limerick City and County Council Cllr. Stephen Keary in 2018.

Broadband build-out starting in Ballinasloe, Athlone, Roscommon Town and Carrick Check your colour code on the National Broadband Map < DEPUTY DENIS NAUGHTEN

Now that National Broadband Ireland has started to plan for the rollout of broadband in County Roscommon & East Galway it is important that people check their colour code on the National Broadband Map at www.broadband.gov.ie If people, particularly in towns and villages, are not getting at least 30Mbps consistently then they need to make sure that they are amber on the National Broadband Map, so that they can be provided with suitable broadband solutions through the plan. About 80,000 homes will fall into this category.

With everybody currently using their home broadband, now is a good time to check your actual speed. If you are not getting at least 30Mbps then see what to do below.

Check your broadband colour code!

Through the National Broadband Plan (NBP) contract, every household and business in Ireland will have access to high quality, high speed broadband of at least 30Mbps.

To know what is happening in your area, check your broadband colour code by going to the High Speed Broadband Map at www.broadband.gov. ie and enter your Eircode or address. This will tell you if your premises is in an AMBER, BLUE, or LIGHT BLUE area.

My home or business is in the AMBER area, what does this mean?

You are part of the final phase of the broadband build-out by National Broadband Ireland. This will firstly involve the development of community broadband hubs this year with the build-out of high speed fibre broadband to you home of at least 150Mbps starting in 2021.

Initially, the build-out will start in the rural areas around Ballinasloe, Athlone, Roscommon Town and Carrick-on-Shannon, which will be some of the first areas in the country to get this new broadband. It will then move to Castlerea, Elphin, Rooskey, Curraghboy, Cloonfad in West Roscommon & Newbridge, Co. Galway to complete the coverage of County Roscommon and East Galway.

In the meantime, the broadband officer in your local county council may be able to advise on

rural broadband providers in your area. They can be contacted at https://drcd.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/List-of-Broadband-officers.pdf

My home or business is in the LIGHT BLUE area, what does this mean?

In April 2017, I signed a Commitment Agreement with Eir in relation to its plans to provide high speed broadband to 300,000 premises’ in rural areas, including your premises. The Eir commercial build-out has now been completed and you can now apply for a connection with one of the existing broadband providers. The contract requires Eir to connect your premises within 20 working days in 95% of cases. If this does not happen then you need to email broadband@dccae.gov.ie with your Eircode and your order number.

My home or business is in the dark BLUE area, what does this mean?

This means that you already should have access to high speed broadband provided by at least one commercial operator who is providing you with a minimum of 30Mbps. That is that your broadband speed should NEVER drop below 30Mbps.

Depending on where you live, you may have a choice of operators offering you this service.

Shop around for the best deal at www.bonkers. ie or www.switcher.ie

I am in a dark BLUE area and cannot get a minimum of a 30Mbps service, what should I do?

First, check your speed. The best way to check speed is by directly connecting your computer/ laptop to your wireless modem/ router. Connect with an ethernet cable (usually a yellow cable supplied with the modem). Switch off WiFi and shut down any programs that are downloading data. Google ‘speedtest’. Your service provider may have a speedtest widget on their website or you can select an independent provider. Pick a server in Ireland (using a server in the UK or beyond will affect the result). Second, check other operators.

Check with all operators offering service in your area to see if they can give you better speeds on a different network (locally this would mainly apply where there is either Siro or Virgin operating their own networks). Log on to www.bonkers. ie or www.switcher.ie Third, report to the Department of Communications. If you have exhausted this avenue, please

contact the Department at broadband@dccae.gov. ie. Please provide them with details of your query, the operator(s) you have contacted and your Eircode. Please also provide permission for them to pass your details to any relevant operator(s) in the course of their investigation into your issue.

How can I improve my broadband speed with my existing service?

There are a number of ways to get the best from your existing broadband service. Interference from other devices: If you are using wireless to make a connection then other wireless devices may interfere. DECT phones (wireless handsets for fixed lines) and baby monitors can cause a lot of interference. Other wireless devices like TV senders (Chromecast and Apple TV) may also interfere.

Move baby monitors, DECT phones, etc. away from your wireless modem to improve the signal.

Check with your service provider as to how to change the WiFi channels to get a better signal.

Position of your wireless modem The position of your wireless modem can affect the wireless performance. If the wireless modem is against a wall, beside a large metal object like a radiator or beside a mirror, the wireless signals can be affected.

Distance from your devices The distance of your device from the wireless modem will affect the quality of the signal. The limit for good WiFi is about 30m when unobstructed by walls, etc.

Extending WiFi coverage Wireless coverage can be extended/improved by using ‘Powerline adapters’. These adapters plug into the sockets in your house and extend the WiFi coverage into hard to reach areas.

Regular updates Make sure that your computer gets regular updates to keep the operating system up to date.

Clearing the cache Clear the browser cache on a regular basis by deleting cookies. * Denis Naughten is an Independent TD in Roscommon/Galway and a former Minister for Communications

25

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Checking out at the supermarket, the young lady cashier suggested to the much older lady that she should bring her own bags, because plastic bags are not good for the environment. The woman apologised to the young girl and explained: “We didn’t have this ‘green thing’ back in my earlier days”.

The young girl responded: “That’s our problem today.

Your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations”.

The older lady said that she was right – our generation didn’t have the ‘green thing’ in its day.

“Back then, we returned milk bottles, mineral bottles and beer bottles back to the place we bought them from. These got sent back to be washed, sterilised and refilled, so they could use the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled. But we didn’t have

the ‘green thing’ back in our day.

“Grocery shops bagged our shopping in brown paper bags that we reused for numerous things. The most memorable was the use of brown paper bags as book covers for our schoolbooks. This was to ensure that public property (the books provided for our use by the school) was not defaced by our scribbling. Then we were able to personalise our books on the brown paper. But too bad we didn’t do the ‘green thing’ back then.

“We walked up the stairs because we didn’t have an escalator or lift in every shop and office building. We walked to the shops and didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower car every time we had to go a short distance. But you’re right: we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ in our day.

“Back then we washed the babies’ nappies because we didn’t have the ‘throw away’ thing. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up to 220 volts. Wind and solar power

really did dry our clothes back in those days. Children got hand-me-downs from their brothers or sisters, not always brand new clothing. But you’re right; we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back in our day.

“Back then we had one TV or radio in the house, not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief, not a screen the size of a lounge wall. In the kitchen we blended and stirred by hand, we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us. When we packaged a fragile item to send in the post, we used wadded up old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

“Back then we didn’t fire up an engine and use petrol to cut the lawn. We used to push a mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working and walking so we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate off electricity. But you’re right; we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back then.

“We drank from a fountain

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Essential workers! Nest construction at Portrun. Photograph submitted by Patricia Fox

VOT

VOT

ER

Author unknown (article by submitted by Roscommon People reader)

NUMB

E 087 6829049 Tel: UM E: mconnolly@cllr.galwaycoco.ie EN B W: www.cllrmichaelconnolly.com

ER

There was life before the ‘green thing’…

REMEMBER TO ALWAYS FARM SAFELY!

Moyloughmore, Moylough, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway CONTINUE TO GET THINGS DONE CONTINUE TO GET THINGS DONE

MICHAEL MICHAEL

CONNOLLY CONNOLLY

or tap when we were thirsty MIKE KELLY & KENNETH O’BRIEN instead of using a cup or plastic MIKE KELLY & KENNETH O’BRIEN bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and we replaced the razor blade instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade had got blunt. But we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back then.

“Back then people took the tram or a bus and children rode their bikes to school or walked, instead of turning their mums I am always and dads into a 24-hour taxi available service in the family’s €35,000 ‘people mover’ which cost if you have any what a whole house did before concerns or the ‘green thing’.

“We had one electrical power need assistance socket in each room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn’t need a computerised gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 Bushtown, Glenamaddy,Co. Galway. miles out in space in order to Email: pkeaveney@cllr.galwaycoco.ie find the nearest takeaway.

“But isn’t it sad how the current generation blames how 1 were, 29/11/2018 09:19 wastefulJFH.pdf we older people just because we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back then?”

Please continue your preference for my colleagues

Please continue your preference for my colleagues

Cllr.. PETER Cllr

KEAVENEY Agricultural Contractor

Telephone: 087-2533098

26

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Telephone: 094 9646205 Specializing In Transporting & spreading of biosolids and biofert

www.evergreenfields.ie

DEAD & WORN-OUT ANIMALS TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector – Guaranteed lowest price

Noel Neilan Agri & Plant Hire l

Slurry Pipeline System l

- Mowing - Baling & Wrapping - Silage Wagon Pit & Self Propelled - Track Excavators - Hedgecutting

CONTACT NOEL ON (087) 6774097 OR DAVID ON (087) 2702754

Number 002414

Elphin Mart Monday evening 27th July

Dry Cows, Cows & Calves, Bullocks, Heifers & Weanlings ALSO Special Sale of 4 & 5 Star Heifers & Cows genotyped Sale @ 6.00p.m Gates open @ 3.00p.m.

Viewing @5.00p.m to 6.00p.m by appointment All cattle must be pre booked.

Usual sheep sale @ 7.00p.m including 30 Breeding Hoggets.

All sheep must be pre booked.

Note Monday evening 3rd August Bank Holiday

Special Weanling Sale for Males & Females @ 5.00p.m Booking on Friday 24th July @ 9.30a.m.

Usual sale of Dry Cows @6.00p.m.

Please contact: 071/9635061

EU Biodiversity Strategy presents a huge challenge to future of food production COMMENT Deputy Marian Harkin I think most people recognise the absolute need to stem biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse, and indeed to reverse that loss. But the EU Biodiversity Strategy presents a huge challenge to the future of food production on up to three out of every 10 hectares in Ireland.

Biodiversity is essential for sustainable food production and for our food security and our ecosystems are part of the essential web that supports human life. However, the EU Biodiversity Strategy, which has as its foundation the requirement that 30% of the land and sea area should be protected, is a huge challenge for agriculture and food production in Ireland.

At this point in time, about 16% of land in Ireland is protected under EU legislation, which in reality means that 36 actions, ranging from fencing to digging a drain, need to be approved. This is on top of all other requirements under agricultural and environmental legislation and it represents a significant financial cost to farmers, a significant compliance cost, as well as devaluing the sale price of their designated lands.

If Ireland had to increase its protected areas to 30%, it would almost double the land already protected and represent an area the size of the entire province of Connacht, plus half of County Cork. Even if we only increased the protected area to 25%, it would still be an area the size of Connacht.

Included in the 30% protected area, the EU requires that one-third of that area, i.e. 10%, is strictly protected. This is an extremely high level of protection, where even human visitation to the land area is controlled. In Ireland, our grasslands, reclaimed wetlands and peatlands would be part of the 10% that is strictly protected. The reason that it is especially difficult for Ireland, is that we have the highest level of peatlands in Europe and we have a settlement pattern that is almost unique, where many people live in rural areas.

The proposed restrictions on land use are in themselves a huge challenge, but allied to that, there is a requirement called GAEC 2 within the CAP legislation. The payment of the Single Farm Payment is conditional on attaining the GAEC 2 requirement which is ‘appropriate protection of wetland and peatland’. In simple language this means that for any farmer to receive just the basic payment, they must ensure appropriate protection of wetland and peatland and if that land is already designated, it sets the bar way too high for that farmer. If, on the other hand, a farmer could access

Naughton Farm Machinery Ballyboughan Business Park, Racecourse Road, Roscommon Tel. 090 6627645

Sales • Service • Parts

Main Kuhn, Sip, Sulky, Kverneland, NC & Major Main Dealer DAFM Approved Sprayer Testing

Eddie Naughton Agri Supplies Athlone Road, Roscommon. Tel. 090 - 66 25127 FEEDS - FERTILIZER SEEDS – SPRAYS * Bulk Fertilizer Spreading Available *

payments through eco-schemes and rural development programmes, then he/she would be paid for protecting this carbon rich soil. It is therefore essential that the requirement for the Single Farm Payment is changed from ‘appropriate protection’ to ‘maintaining and management’. This would allow a farmer freedom to farm in a sustainable way and incentivise higher levels of protection under rural development programmes.

This may seem like a very complicated issue, but there are some solutions and if we don’t move now to put those solutions in place, the implications of further designations and protections will have the potential to irreparably damage sustainable agriculture and food production, in many parts of Ireland, but especially all along the Western Seaboard.

While it is too early yet to make a full assessment of monies available under the Rural Development Section of the new CAP, it does seem as if payments may be reduced unless there is significant increased co-funding levels from Government. A fully funded Rural Development Programme will be absolutely essential to support farmers in complying with biodiversity targets and the new Green Deal. It would be unacceptable if farmers’ support payments are cut while at the same time requiring higher levels of compliance and delivery of environmental actions.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact: JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Telephone: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

27

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Advice to dog owners as thefts continue Dog thefts in the area are continuing, to a very worrying degree. There have been a number of thefts of dogs reported in local villages.

In her column on page 10, Miriam Kerins write: “Criminal gangs, some masquerading as couples looking for directions, some as families asking if their ‘kids’ can pet your dogs, are snatching beloved family pets as a form of no risk, easy money, yet despicably cruel crime”.

She continues: “I’d like to advise dog owners to never, ever leave their pets unattended outside of their home. Stand with them at all times. Microchip your pets and make sure their details (and yours) are registered with a government-approved organisation. Spay/ neuter your pets and, if possible, install CCTV or a security device at your home/premises.

An Garda Síochána will advise you regarding same”.

Meanwhile, Sligo-Leitrim Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny has also called on people to be vigilant in relation to their dogs and their neighbours’ dogs.

Deputy Kenny said: “Reports are coming in thick and fast of dogs being stolen from families all over the country and I am calling on people to be vigilant.

“The cruelty of this activity, to the dogs and to the families who are heartbroken at the loss of their pets, is hard to quantify.

“Pet-owners are being advised by Gardaí to be careful around strangers, especially those who seem unusually interested in your dogs.

Strokestown, Co Roscommon Spe c ia lis t s in t he f a br ic a t ion a nd e r e c t ion of indus t r ia l a nd f a r m buildings C E C e rt i f i c a t i o n t o E N 1 0 9 0 -1 FP C -E X . C . 2

Phone : 0 7 1 9 6 3 3 11 9 Fa x : 0 7 1 9 6 3 3 9 0 0 www.r e ga ns t r uc t ur a ls t e e l.c om Em a il: inf o@ r e ga ns t r uc t ur a ls t e e l.c om

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

C & G Quarries Williamstown, Co. Galway

Tel: 087 2601639

READYMIX CONCRETE Suppliers of Maintenance - Pea Gravel - 804 l Broken and Round Stone l Drainage Chip l Washed Sand

l

It is best to vary your walking patterns and not give thieves the chance to track your pet and plan to steal it.

“Don’t leave your dog tied outside shops or anywhere in public and be sure that they are somewhere safe within your house or garden when you are leaving them alone. Many dogs

have been stolen out of gardens recently, when their owners thought them to be perfectly safe”.

Deputy Kenny advised anyone whose dog has been stolen to immediately report it to the Garda Siochána, their vet and the microchip company.

Working to support the Family Farm and decent incomes for farmers I am contactable through my office We are early risers, we are tax advisors, we are accountants, farmers, foresters and forecasters.

We are ifac.

Find out how our National Team of Advisors can help your farm business to plan for the future.

Call Tommie Fallon on 0906 626599 or visit www.ifac.ie

Email is best

Email: marian@marianharkin.com or marian.harkin@oireachtas.ie Tel. 086 8341758

28

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Frank is new President of EU Animal Task Force (Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Sales each Friday @ 11 a.m.

For Bullocks, Heifers, Dry Cows & Weanlings

Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. All cattle must be penned by 9 a.m.

----------------------Tuesday August 4th @ 4 p.m.

Lughnasa Show & Sale of Autumn Born Weanlings Best Weanling Bull- born from 1st July to 31st December 2019 Best Weanling Heifer- born from 1st July to 31st December 2019 Also Suckler /Springer Cows Yard opens at 11.30 a.m. – Cattle must be penned by 1.30 p.m.

Bookings up to 5 p.m. on Thursday July 30th -------Friday August 7th @ 11 am.

Autumn Special Sales for Heifers & Bullocks Also Dry Cows Bookings up to 5 p.m. on Thursday July 30th -----------------------

Professor Frank O’Mara, Director of Research at Teagasc, has just been confirmed as the incoming President of the EU Animal Task Force (ATF), and takes up the role in November.

The ATF is an influential European Public-Private Partnership concerned with the role of sustainable and competitive livestock production within the food system. It is a leading body of European expertise linking industry and research providers to promote innovation in the livestock sector.

Through its publications, conferences and high

level briefings, the ATF is an authoritative voice on sustainable European livestock production for policy makers and other stakeholders.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Frank O’Mara said: “I am looking forward to taking up this important role and I would like to thank the

members of the EU Animal Task Force for placing their confidence in me. We are at a very important juncture for agriculture in the EU with the recent publication of the Farm to Fork and Biodiversity strategies of the Green Deal.

“I am convinced that livestock production has a critical role in a fully functioning food system by exploiting the principle of circularity through minimising waste, delivering highly nutritious, safe and tasty food, and providing livelihoods for livestock farmers and others in the food chain”.

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Yard open at 8.30 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m.

------------Saturday August 1st

Opening Sale for Breeding Ewes & Hoggets Sale at 11 am. – Gates open at 8 a.m.

Viewing from 10 a.m up to 10.45 a.m ------------------------Saturday August 8th @ 1 p.m.

West of Ireland Pedigree Suffolk Breeders Club

PREMIER SALE OF PEDIGREE SUFFOLK SHEEP Viewing from 11.15 a.m. to 12.45 p.m.

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

Cattle may also be purchased on line- by downloading the LSL App or livestock-live.com Please contact the Mart if you require any assistance with the setting up of the App

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 - see Facebook or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS. • YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. • ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. • ALL STOCK TO BE PENNED BY 10 A.M. • ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. LIVE AUCTION WILL TAKE PLACE AS WELL AS ON LINE SALE WITH MARTBIDS .IE.

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Vist Our Website For Details.

Rainbow of hope… Submitted by Michael Spellman (Kilteevan).

Longford native joins Teagasc Authority

Longford native Elizabeth Reynolds has been appointed to the Teagasc Authority for a five-year term. Meanwhile Liam Woulfe, Adare, Co. Limerick, has been reappointed for a second five-year term.

Elizabeth Reynolds is a senior consultant with Ignite Purpose, based in Dublin. Previously she worked with GlaxoSmithKline, focusing on Consumer Healthcare. Now based in Dublin, Elizabeth is a native of Co. Longford, having been raised in Ardagh and brought up on a farm.

The Chairman of Teagasc, Liam Herlihy congratulated Elizabeth Reynolds on her appointment, and Liam Woulfe on his reappointment to the Teagasc Authority. He said: “Elizabeth’s global experience in healthcare and nutrition along with her knowledge of strategic planning and change management will be invaluable to Teagasc in the coming years. I look forward to working closely with Elizabeth in the future.

I would also like to congratulate Liam on his reappointment”.

Liam Woulfe is Managing Director of Grassland AGRO and of Freshgrass Group and has just completed his first five-year term on the Teagasc Authority.

MART WATCH Roscommon Mart Report Sheep sale, Wednesday, July 22nd 2020: There were smaller numbers on offer this week, with a small dip in trade. Finished lambs made up to €121 for 59 kgs. Stag ewes made from €35 up to €108 per head.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Our next sheep sale is next Wednesday, 29th of July. Sheep are to be penned by 10 am on the day of sale.

Sample prices are as follows – finished lambs: 59kgs, €121; 47.4kgs, €118; 50.8kgs, €118; 52.5kgs, €115 47.8kgs, €115; 41.8kgs, €115; 4 kgs, €111; 45.2kgs, €110; 44.5kgs, €108; 44kgs, €106; and 42.4 kgs €100. Store lambs: 35.4kgs, €93; 36.10kgs, €93; 38.3kgs, €92; 37.3kgs, €91; 33.8kgs, €90; 38.3kgs €90; 39kgs €90; 34.8kgs €89; 38kgs €86; 37.3kgs €85; and 33kgs, €80. Cast ewes made from €35 to €108 per lot.

Dry cows, heifers and bullocks, Friday, July 17th 2020: There were good numbers on offer for this time of the year, with a firm trade for all classes. Bullocks averaged from €2.11 per kilo up to €2.89 per kilo. Heifers fetched from €2.21 per kilo up to €2.71 kilo.

Dry cows averaged from €1.72 per kilo up to €2.01 per kilo. Buyers were active both online and at the ringside with sellers also taking advantage of the LSL bidding app to view their stock being sold.

There will be a sale for bullocks, heifers, dry cows and weanlings on Friday, July 24th at 11 am. Please note that sales will commence at 11 am, intake from 7.30 am to 9.30 am. Viewing

by appointment from 10 am to 10.45 am. There is limited access to the ring for buyers only.

There is also an online bidding facility with LSL. Gates close at 9.45 am.

Dry cows ranged from €1.72 up to €2.01 per kilo. Sample prices: AAX 930 kgs €1720, Simm 785 kgs €1530, Char X 800 kgs €1500, Lim X 795 kgs €1430, Lim X 680 kgs €1370, PTX 705 kgs €1340, Char X 700 kgs €1340, Lim X 675 kgs €1260, Lim X 770 kgs €1250, Simm X 720 kgs €1200, Lim X 650 kgs €1150.

Heifers ranged from an average of €2.21 per kilo up to €2.71 per kilo: Sample prices: Lim X 720 kgs €1450, Char 630 kgs €1300, Char X 530 kgs €1210, Char X 450 kgs €1180, Char 460 kgs €1150, Char X 440 kgs €1100, Char X 480 kgs €1090, 2 Char X 372 kgs €970, Char X 385 kgs €960, Char X 400 kgs €960, Char X 390 kgs €950, Char X 355 kgs €930, 2 Char X 375 kgs €900, Char X 390 kgs €1060.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €2.11 per kilo up to €2.89 per kilo. Sample prices: Lim X 670 kgs €1520, Char X 670 kgs €1500, Char X 730 kgs €1500, Char X 640 kgs €1350, Char X 585 kgs €1320, Char X 505 kgs €1240, Lim X 435 kgs €1110, Char 395 kgs €1040, Char X 345 kgs €1000, Char X 370 kgs €1000, Char X 380 kgs, €1000, Char X 505 kgs €1110, Char X 585 kgs €1320.

Castlerea Mart Report Sale 16/7/2020: Larger numbers of stock presented for sale than the previous week and trade remained very strong for all classes of stock. Lighter stores in particular are much

sought after at the moment. Bullocks, heifers and weanlings reported good clearances while increased numbers of runners met a very lively trade. Cows with calves at foot remain in strong demand also, while the dry cow trade remains on a par with the previous week.

Sample prices Bullocks: Ch 465kg €1240, Lim 460kg €1190, Ch 510kg €1170, Lim 515kg €1120, Lim 568kg €1200, Ch 645kg €1360, Ch 780kg €1750, Ch 700kg €1500, AA 660kg €1380.

Heifers: BBX 425kg €1190, Ch 375kg €1160, Ch 470kg €1140, Ch 430kg €1130, Lim 655kg €1470, Ch 620kg €1380, Ch 600kg €1320, Ch 480kg €1110.

Cows: Dry cows – Ch 1010kg €1900, Ch 815kg €1620, Lim 730kg €1300, AA 800kg €1230, Ch 650kg €980.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1000 to €1700 per head.

Springer cows made from €760 to €980 per head.

Calves/runners: Young calves made from €190 to €440 with stronger runner-types making from €380 to €860.

Weanling bulls: Ch 360kg €960, Ch 435kg €1020, Ch 395kg €940, Lim 255kg €600, Ch 235kg €750.

Weanling heifers: Lim 270kg €700, Ch 375kg €1010, Lim 350kg €1000, Ch 340kg €900, Lim 400kg €980.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday (today) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

29

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Back on the road ...

Our columnist progresses from walks to Lenamarla to the M50, reveals his new hobby, and laments the loss of a great friend who left his mark on Frank on the rugby pitch…and in life

It’s Saturday evening and I’m giddy with excitement – like a young child on Christmas morning who can’t wait

to get to the tree to see what goodies Santa has left during the night, or a club footballer who, after all the uncertainty about whether or not they would see any action at all this summer, has woken up to the realisation that today they are going to play in the first round of the championship.

I can hear you ask yourself what was it that had me in such a state of excitement. In normal times, it would hardly have rated at all. However, in these times of recent travel restrictions and all kinds of rules and regulations, the fact that we were heading off to Dublin for the first time since

Christmas was just so wonderful – almost as good as going on holidays.

Now I have to admit that during the last five months or so I was nowhere at all – well, except walking up the road to Lenamarla. However, when we started to get into the various phases, eventually I got to Castlerea (for the golf), Roscommon, Glenamaddy, Ballygar, and even Mountbellew, but I had never managed to get out of the province of Connacht.

As Carol was working, it was after 7 pm before we hit the road, and it was on the road that we could see one of the big consequences of Covid-19.

The motorway was quieter than we would have been used to, but it was when we got to the M50 towards the airport that the difference really hit home. Our daughter Lisa, whom we were going to visit, lives out past the airport, and every time I have driven out that way before, traffic would be almost bumper to bumper. As a driver who prefers nice quiet country roads, I would be as tense as a coiled spring, but on Saturday evening it was so quiet it was hard to believe that we were on the airport motorway.

Bearing in mind that we are in the middle of July, the prime time

for holidays, it was obvious that the people are definitely not flying anywhere, and the road traffic – or lack thereof – certainly reflected the lack of airplanes in the sky. I know it would be better for us all if the airlines were still flat out as the holiday season hit full throttle, but for me at least, it meant a much less stressful journey, and for Carol it meant she didn’t have any panic attacks as I tried to keep to the proper lanes, stay in position, and most importantly, try not to miss my turn-off (I did it once and nearly ended up in Drogheda).

Flight of fancy: My new hobby Staying with flights and airports, I have to admit that I have always been interested in both. Recently I came across an app called Flighttracker/Flightradar (not sure which) that can tell you everything you want to know about any airplane in the sky. If there is one flying over you now, you can check it out and it will tell you where the plane is coming from, where it’s going to, what height it’s flying at, what airline the plane belongs to, what time it took off at, and what time it’s due to land. It’s almost as if you are in the plane itself. I find myself looking up every flight that goes overhead (one of the great things about being retired).

At this point I am nearly able to tell exactly where they are going before I look them up at all. Of course I never realised it before, but almost all the traffic that comes this way is either going to or coming from America. Most of them are cargo carriers, like UPS, DPD or Fedex, as the passenger flights are so few and far between, but if and when it all goes back to normal, I will have loads of fun on my new-found app, following the adventures of the many airlines and their thousands of daily passengers. I know it’s a bit loopy, but I really enjoy it.

And finally…

Baby Thea Nolan, born in Melbourne, Australia just over two months ago, has her bag ready to fly home to Ireland with mum Laura and dad Jamie to meet her many relations in Roscommon and Galway including grand-uncle Declan Walsh in Castlerea and her great-grandmother, Phyllis McCormack in Ballaghaderreen.

Farewell to ‘Basher’, a true gentleman Back to Sunday, and on my way home from Dublin I stopped in Ballymahon to say goodbye to an old school pal, Kevin ‘Basher’ Canavan, who sadly passed away suddenly last week.

Myself and Basher go back all the way to secondary school in Roscrea, where I made him Vice Captain of the school’s league winning team, Creggs Thunderbolts (in 1968). Later, I was to cross paths with him on many occasions, and he used call in to see me in my

workplace in Athlone on a regular basis.

For some reason, although we were the same age, he used always address me as ‘Young Brandon’.

I have told you before of the belt he hit me many years ago (totally fair I have to admit) during a rugby cup match up in Athlone, from which I still maintain that most of my insides never made it back to their original positions. Foolishly, I tried to sell him a dummy, but the Basher had seen it all before, and

he definitely didn’t buy it, and was waiting for me like a heavyweight boxer for a flyweight. There could be only one winner.

As a rugby player he was good enough to play at senior level for Connacht, as well as for the Buccs and Athlone, but it was as a person that Basher stood out. He was a true gentleman, genuine as the day is long, and he will be sadly missed by his wife and family and by his huge circle of friends. May he rest in peace.

Finally for this week, as our local football team looks forward to their opening championship game on Saturday afternoon against old rivals Kilbride, it’s hard to understand the 200-person limit (including teams, management, officials and stewards) that has been imposed on open-air gatherings.

I can’t understand how contact sports can take place, with players marking each other tightly on the pitch, while in the area the all around the pitch only 200 people can be in attendance.

It certainly puts unfair pressure on clubs to decide who can get their allocated tickets, and I can only sympathise with local club committees who may have to tell some disappointed supporters that they can’t get tickets.

Thankfully, as I write this I have got the good news that I have made the top 50, and will, please God, be in Oran on Saturday to cheer on our lads to a hoped for win.

‘Till next week, bye for now

30

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PropertyPeople Auctioneers & Valuers PSRA no. 001090

NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296 EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

For Sale: Impressive 6 Bedroomed Two Storey Residence at

CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN

Strong interest in Mullymux lands

Hughes & Company are confirming they have received a lot of interest in circa 26 acres of lands at Mullymux, Roscommon (located in one block).

The lands are all of good quality and have been ploughed and reseeded in recent years and have the benefit of been located within three miles of Roscommon town with excellent road frontage and site potential, subject to planning permission being granted. Pat is currently at an advanced stage of negotiations for sale of same.

For further details contact Pat on 090 662 7003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

25 acres at Moycarn, Ballinasloe The residence stands on a large site with a Garage to the rear and is located in a prominent location in Roscommon Town and close to all amenities. Accommodation consists of 2 Sitting Rooms, Dining Room, Kitchen, Utility, Bathroom and Downstairs Bedroom with fitting Units.

Upstairs has 5 Double Bedrooms all En-Suite with two having the benefit of walk in wardrobes and the other 3 with fitted units. Viewing is highly recommended. The property would make an ideal investment opportunity for B & B or a large family home.

For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Sale: Attractive 3 Bedroom Cottage at CLOONTYMULLEN, KILTEEVAN, ROSCOMMON known locally as “Fisherman’s cottage”

CO. LONGFORD • Excellently presented and pivotally located 6 bedroomed dormer residence.

• Within walking distance of the Shannonside village of Tarmonbarry.

• Spacious living accommodation throughout the entire property.

• This property may be considered for B&B given its size and location.

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

CO. ROSCOMMON

€180,000

MOYNE, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON NEW TO THE MARKET

Hughes & Company is confirming that they have experienced a lot of interest in land which was recently placed on the market at Cloonultry, Moycarn, Ballinasloe (circa 25 acres in all). The lands are located a short distance off the main Athlone to Ballinasloe road in a nice rural setting. The lands have excellent road frontage. Most of the lands are of good quality but have been neglected over recent years and would need some clearance.

The auctioneer is at an advanced stage of negotiations and is encouraging interested parties to contact him.

For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

€280,000

FISHERSTOWN, CLONDRA, CO. LONGFORD

• Tarmacadam driveway to the front and sides, paved patio and large garden to the rear.

BER: C3 CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

CO. ROSCOMMON

€180,000

KILVALOON, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Impressive dormer property with annex and double garage.

• Located on large site C.6.35 acres with excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

• 6 Large double bedrooms including 2 ensuite and a number of walk-in wardrobes, porch, kitchen/dining, living room, utility, bathroom and W.C. • Currently there is a bar and games room on the first floor.

• The property comes with a detached annex C.395 sq. ft.

• Large garden surrounding the property.

• The house has the benefit of solar panels and oil fired central heating.

BER: C1

• Large 4 bedroom bungalow on c.24 acres site • Excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

• Accommodation hallway, living room, bathroom, hot press, kitchen/dining, 4double bedrooms including one en-suite • The said property is surrounded by manicured gardens with spacious detached garage to the side, • Viewing strictly by appointment only ..

BER: D1. EIRCODE : F45PK50

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200; EMAIL : PBURKE@SFPBURKE.IE

It’s not just about property. It’s about people.

PSRA No. 001316

Entrance porch, large living room with solid fuel stove, kitchen, sitting room with corner couch, bathroom with shower. Upstairs three bedrooms and toilet. The Residence is Located Approximately Half a mile of the main Lanesboro to Roscommon Road in a quiet rural setting. The property will sell to the first offer of €80,000. The property would make an ideal Holiday Home or start up home.

For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Sale: circa 26.5 acres of top-quality land at MULLYMUX, ROSCOMMON

‘Academy House’ is strategically located at Goff St., in the heart of Roscommon town, with easy road access.

The lands are located ½ mile off the main Tulsk to Roscommon Road. Compact farm located close to Roscommon town.

For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com -----------------------------------------------------------------------For Sale: 5 Bedroomed Townhouse with a large yard and rear entrance at

ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

The property offers huge development potential subject to planning permission being granted but would also be suitable for renting as the residence is in excellent condition and located in a prominent location.

For further details contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Striking commercial property for lease in Roscommon town centre A wonderful architectural building in the heart of Roscommon town is available for lease offering huge potential and boasting an internal area of circa 2,506 square feet over four floors.

‘Academy House’ is strategically located at Goff St., in the heart of Roscommon town, with easy road access.

This modern and ‘ready to go’ office space is adjacent to a num-

ber of businesses including Allied Irish Bank, Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke, coffee shops, solicitors and all the amenities of town centre. Roscommon is one of the few towns in the country with free car parking.

Academy House is for lease in four sections. The basement comprises two offices – (1) 5.49m x 4.74m; (2) 4.74m x 3.12m, kitchenette and W.C. On the ground

floor there are two large offices – (1) 4.73m x 4.62m to the front of the building; (2) 4.73m x 3.29m, kitchenette and W.C. The first floor comprises three offices – (1) 4.21m x 2.68m; (2) 4.42m x 2.93m; (3) 3.40m x 3.09m, kitchenette and W.C. Second floor contains two offices – (1) large 7.33m x 3.18m; (2) 2.69m x 2.45m, kitchenette and W.C. The building’s simple design and

distinctive frontage is something of an architectural landmark in the town centre. This is a great opportunity for any business looking for a central location in Roscommon and the offices are ready to go with cat. five cabling in each office.

For more information or to arrange a viewing contact David at Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke in Roscommon town on 090 6627200 or email pburke@sfpburke.ie.

31

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PropertyPeople

Prime property available at Laragh, Ballintubber This week, John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is offering to the market a primely located two-bedroomed, stone-built residence located at Laragh, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon. All offers above €25,000 with a view to sale.

John describes the property

as a “primely located stonebuilt two-storey residence standing on a large site area.

Standing on the said lands is a stone-built shed in derelict condition”.

The said property would make a rewarding restoration project due to location and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all

offers after €25,000 to sell.

BER: Exempt.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

O’Carolan’s Court, Kilronan Castle, Ballyfarnon, Co. Roscommon

Viewings now invited for luxurious Kilronan Castle properties This week, John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon invites viewings for the new phase of properties at the exclusive O’Carolan’s Court, Kilronan Castle, Ballyfarnon, Co. Roscommon. Priced from €107,500-€130,000.

Whether as an investment, a holiday home or for a weekend escape, you can indulge yourself in some of the most unspoilt countryside without feeling isolated. These

Laragh, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon

spacious properties are presented for sale with fitted kitchen, fitted fireplace, fitted wardrobes and fitted and tiled bathrooms.

Offering rolling gardens, which extend onto dozens of acres of manicured grounds and natural lakeside woodlands, this truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase a piece of countryside bliss. Every care and attention to detail has been given to providing a state-of-the-art property and a

PROPERTY PARTNERS

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

full fit-out package is available on request.

Purchasers will have the benefit of two years’ membership of Kilronan Castle’s world class leisure centre.

For further details or to arrange a viewing please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 662 6579, log on to www.propertypartners. ie or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET

PRIME LANDS CONTAINING APPROX. 22 ACRES located at

A MOST ATTRACTIVE MIXED USE INVESTMENT PROPERTY located at

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 3 B/R SEMI-DETACHED RESIDENCE located at

CORRABAUN, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON

“CUIRT NA RI”, MAIN STREET, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F52 EV18..

35 CELTIC AVENUE, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 KW29

(being sold with the benefit of vacant possession.

All offers after €150,000 to sell.

A prime property with good future rental income potential offering 4 no Commercial Units and 1 no 2 B/R Apartment)

A most attractive holding of lands located in a renowned farming district located just off the N61 Tulsk to Boyle Route at Corrabaun.

Servicing the property is holding yard and silage slab. The said lands border onto a lake and are located in a lake land district renowned for excellent fishing. The sale of these said lands offers an excellent opportunity for local farmers to increase their existing holdings and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

Legal: Pardaig Kelly, Farnbeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

A substantial town centre mixed use investment property offering 4 number retail units on the ground floor together with a quality 2 B/R apartment on the 1st floor.

The said property is comprised in folio RN5549 and offers a self advertising location adjacent to the King House Historical Cultural Centre, the Boyle river and Boyle town centre.

The said property is being sold with the benefit of vacant possession and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

Legal: Messers Dermot McDermott, 1 Union Street, Abbey Quarter North, Sligo

A quality 3 B/R semi-detached residence situated in a most attractive residential development adjacent to Roscommon town centre and all amenities. The property offers spacious living accommodation throughout with the benefit of a mature site area and overlooking a large green area to the front. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €150,000 to sell.

BER: D1 Full virtual tour available on www.propertypartners.ie.

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

32

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PropertyPeople

FINAL OFFER NOW INVITED

NEW TO THE MARKET

GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 XW96

1 LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 E974

A most select residential family home majestically set on a large mature 0.6 acre site with 3 No. outbuildings.

In need of modernisation, an excellent opportunity now exists to buy a quality family home in the very best of locations. All offers are now invited above €150,000 Guide Price: €150,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN

Quality 4 Bedroom Detached property centrally located in Roscommon Town. The property is finished to a high standard and benefits from a cobblelock driveway and private rear garden. The central location of this property cannot be underestimated and it is within walking distance to all amenities. Immediate enquiries advised and viewing is highly recommended.

Guide Price: €220,000

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION 3RD SEPTEMBER 2020 30 THE MAPLES, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 DD25

Quality 4 Bedroom Detached Two Storey home situated within the highly sought after residential estate of The Maples, set on the outskirts of Strokestown, easily accessible to all amenities in Strokestown. The property is presented in excellent condition both internally and externally. A quality family home in an exceptional location is now available and Seamus now invites immediate viewings and enquiries Guide Price: €150,000

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

Quality four-bedroomed bungalow in Roxborough On the market with REA Seamus Carthy is this quality four-bedroomed detached bungalow with detached outbuildings set on the outskirts of Roscommon town.

The residence is set on a large 2.3acre site in the highly sought after residential location of Roxborough, within close proximity to Roscommon town.

The subject property is presented in

excellent condition. Externally, the property is set on a mature elevated site with tarmacadam driveway and landscaped lawns to front, side and rear. The said residence also benefits from a detached outbuilding comprising of a workshop and an office/ granny flat.

The said residence is circa 180 square metres, boasting spacious living accommodation and in par-

ticular a most impressive main living room, kitchen/dining area, dining room, utility, four bedrooms (two ensuite), and a family bathroom.

Altogether, this is a most impressive property and Seamus now invites immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 663 0001 or info@ reacarthy.ie.

Glenview residential estate in Roscommon town

Four/five-bedroomed, detached family home in Roscommon town available for €200,000 On the market with REA Seamus Carthy, is this substantial four/five-bedroomed family home on a large corner site with mature hedging, situated to the front of the Glenview residential estate in Roscommon town.

It is situated in a highly sought after area in Roscommon town, within walking distance from all amenities, such as supermarkets, schools, train station, etc. The said residence is presented in excellent condition both internally and externally.

No. 3, Glenview is a substantial home,

circa 1650 square feet and comprises of a living room, open plan kitchen/dining area, bedroom/office/playroom, conservatory, utility, WC, for bedrooms (one ensuite), and a family bathroom. This is a superb family home.

This property is of very high quality, and viewing comes strongly recommended by Seamus. Excellent value for money and offers are now invited for immediate sale with a guide price of €200,000. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today 090 66 30001 or info@reacarthy.ie.

33

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PropertyPeople

Five-bedroomed country residence which oozes character and charm

Corramore, Kiltoom

Three-bedroomed bungalow at Corramore, Kiltoom This three-bedroomed bungalow, sitting on a large site of circa 0.53 acres, is in an excellent location, just a short distance from the Hodson Bay Hotel and Athlone town centre.

The property, which is on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers, is also close to the M6 Dublin to Galway motorway.

In need of modernisation, this property represents excellent value, and holds huge potential for future expansion and renovation. There are an array of outbuildings adjacent with concrete yard.

The property boasts a host of additional features – including laid lawns to front and rear, six stables, a shed to the rear (21`4” x 14`10”), an open shed to the rear (17`5” x 12`3”) and another shed to the front (15`3” x 13`2”). Services include mains water electricty and septic tank.

Accommodation includes porch to the front, reception hallway, living room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, back hallway, three bedrooms and bathroom.

This property is popular for viewing, and has attracted huge interest since arriving on the market. In order to secure your appointment, contact the office on 090 666 3700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Recently arrived to the market is this attractive five-bedroomed, detached country residence in the much sought after residential area of Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon, approximately five miles from the Dublin to Galway motorway and Athlone Town centre. The property is on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers.

This beautiful property oozes character and charm and is presented to the market in showhouse condition. The layout and presentation of this family home is a delight for the potential purchaser who wishes to buy a one of a kind property which is both distinguished and sophisticated.

Nestled on large mature private grounds at Feamore, Kiltoom, the property has had the additon of an extension to the rear, with walls pumped with beaded insulation and additional insulation to the attic. The site is private with an array of mature flower beds, shubbery, trees and hedging.

On the ground floor, accommodation consists of a glass panel porch to the front, sitting room with stanley solid fuel stove with feautre outset, and carpeted flooring. The living room also has a Stanley, solidfuel stove, with brick outset and wooden flooring. The modern

Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon

kitchen/dining room has fullyfitted units in cream, with integrated appliances, granite worktops, breakfast bar, tiled flooring and splashback. Utility room off, with additional storage cupboards, airing cupboard with cylinder suitable for the provision of for solar panels. The guest bathroom is off the utility with toilet and wash hand basin, tiled flooring and part-tiled walls. Bedroom one is currently being used as a play room and is

a good-sized room with wooden flooring. The sunroom, which is located to the front, overlooking the lawned garden, has a beautiful, high, future ceiling and tiled flooring.

On the first floor of this desirable home, there are four bedrooms and a main bathroom, which has both bath and shower along with toilet and wash hand basin.

There is the addition of a garage to the rear (25’ x 12’) di-

vided into two sections, and a gated awning area to the side.

Services include mains water and septic tank, and the house is fully alarmed. Driveway is tarmacadamed and kerbed and extends to the rear.

Viewing is a must in order to fully appreciate this inviting property.

For further details, contact the office on 090 666 3700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers. ie.

34

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

PropertyPeople

Immaculate fully furnished 4-bedroom house in Knockcroghery Oates Auctioneers are offering for sale an immaculate 4-bedroom house at 27 Dun Ard, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, (F42 K282). The house is being sold fully furnished with all appliances included in sale. Finished to a very high standard with expensive finish both inside and outside.

This residence comprises entrance hallway, open plan kitchen/dining room with French doors to large sitting room, 4 large bedrooms (Master Ensuite), utility room and family bathroom.

Outside paved maintenance free driveway with attractive patio area to rear together with detached garage and shrub area. Located within walking distance to all the village amenities and 10 minutes’ drive to both Roscommon and Athlone town centres.

A substantial 5 bedroom detached residence located in this hallmark development in the centre of Roscommon Town within walking distance to railway station and all local amenities such as schools, supermarket, bakery, hotel and church.

This property would make and excellent family home or investment property.

Spacious living accommodation includes:entrance hallway, kitchen, utility, dining room, and living room, 5 bedrooms (one en-suite) and family bathroom. BER: C3.

Price Region: €245,000.

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

New to the Market: IMPRESSIVE DORMER STYLE RESIDENCE

BALLYMURRAY, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 F584

27 Dun Ard, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

BER: C1. Price Region: €190,000.

Please contact Oates

Auctioneers for further details, Church Street, Roscommon town,

telephone: 090 6627878.

E-mail info@oates.ie; Website: www.oates.ie.

BidNow.ie through REA Seamus Carthy producing excellent results REA Seamus Carthy are market leaders in selling properties via their online platform BidNow. ie, selling all types of property (houses, shops, agricultural land, etc.) on a daily basis. Last Thursday, the 16th of July, 3 Slí Na Sruthan, Ballinlough was sold by online auction.

3, Slí Na Sruthan is a detached, four-bedroomed residence set on the outskirts of Ballinlough village within walking distance to all amenities. The said property successfully sold for €70,000.

Upcoming online auctions:

Roscommon (18 of August), Killaster, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon (27th of August), and 30, The Maples, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (3rd of September).

We would encourage everybody to simply log onto BidNow.ie, and do a property search, and from there you can follow the sale process every step of the way.

Considering selling? Give your property every chance of securing the best price by contacting REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 66 30001 or email info@reacarthy.ie. th

Gurteen, Williamstown, Co. Galway (30th of July), Caldrymoran, Elphin, Co.

Attractive townhouse at Bank Gardens

Our services include: • Sales – Sell your home!

• Lettings & Rentals • Property Management – We will manage all aspects of your rental property • Valuations – FREE pre-sale valuation No Sale – No Charge Web: www.kleavyauctioneer.com Tel. 071 96 34737

New to the Market: -

11 THE SPINNEY, ABBEYTOWN ROSCOMMON F42 AY99

Advertorial

Looking to sell?

We have buyers!

PSRA Licence No: 003201

Hughes & Company are offering for sale an attractive three-bedroomed townhouse at Bank Gardens, Roscommon town.

The property is currently rented and generating an annual rental income of €7,500. Offers in the region of €120,000 are being considered.

For further details or to make an appointment to view contact the office on 09066 27003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Free advice from Pat Due to a number of recent sales, Hughes & Company are urgently looking for all types of property in and around the Roscom-

Impressive new build property currently under construction in a highly sought-after residential location set adjacent to Mote Park Forest and amenity park being 10 minutes to Roscommon Town and 15 minutes to Athlone Town Centre.

Built to a builder’s finish with a provisional Ber A rating, this property comprises majestic entrance hallway with feature oak stairway, open plan kitchen/dining room, sitting room, utility, office and bathroom. First floor, 4 large bedrooms, 3 ensuite together with family bathroom.

Price Region: €365,000.

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

New to the Market: BUNGALOW ON C. 1.35 ACRE OVERLOOKING LAKE CAGGLE

CAGGLE, STROKESTOWN CO. ROSCOMMON F42 HP78

Elegant 4 bedroomed residence offering circa 1700 sq. ft. on ground floor and a further 800 sq. ft. floored out accommodation on the first floor, c. 1.35 acre site with views over Lake Caggle.

Attractive feature cut stone walling to front together with maintenance free exterior boasts part brick finish. Spacious accommodation includes 4 bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility with WC and family bathroom. Outside, tarmacadam drive with impressive large mature garden area to front and rear.

Price Region: €249,950 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: -

PRIME COMMERCIAL UNIT

HAIRDRESSING SALON/BUSINESS Stone Court, Roscommon Town

Prime commercial unit for sale in the heart of Roscommon Town. This unit has traded very successfully for the past 20 years as “CURL UP & DYE” Hair Salon with a large established client base.

Selling as is, with all furnishings included, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire an established Hair dressing business together with a prime property in a most sought after location in the town centre.

PRICE REGION: POA.

Bank Gardens, Roscommon town mon town area. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat and let him advise you. His

advice is free. Contact Pat on 09066 27003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

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

35

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Classifieds

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS GROUP MEETINGS Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon town Tuesdays, 9.00pm Thursdays, 1.00pm Saturdays, 8.30pm Sundays, 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

Telephone:

087 2798704

BARBERS

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

Cloonchambers, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

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

Appointments any time and walk ins on Fridays Please call Helen 087 6833053

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

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

VHI and Laya Covered

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

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

Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Welcome back to all our customers!

COUNSELLING

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Ballintubber

CHIROPRACTOR

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

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

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

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

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

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver.

GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

COUNSELLING

DRIVING LESSONS

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs.

Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School Telephone:

090 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

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

• Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Dept. of Agriculture regulations.

From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EL000083

< ROUND BALES of hay for sale. Fourmilehouse area. Can deliver. Tel. 086 8510528. < MEADOWS TO LET – ready for cutting, aftergrass. Also available Clondra, Longford area. Tel 087 2592035. < WANTED TO RENT 2, 3, 4 bay slatted shed for winter. No silage needed. Cash/ exchange for sheep grazing.

Tel. 086 8435974. < 50 ACRES MEADOW to let at Scrine, Roscommon.

Heavy meadow, well fertilised, sprayed. Can be let in 2 or 3 lots. Tel. Thomas J. Cox, Auctioneers, Strokestown.

Tel. 087 2602909.

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING

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

• 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:

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

087 2721193 WALTER BEGLEY

Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873 < GARDENING SERVICE: Overgrown shrubs and hedges, cut back and mulched. Contact 086 2437376

36

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

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

< TO LET: 2-bed or 3-bed apartment. Fully furnished. Private parking. Quiet area in Roscommon town. Tel. 086 8538519.

€4,200

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters

Waldron Lawnmowers

Tel. 086 7866774 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 HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

USEFUL SERVICES Storage facility available in Ballyfarnon (Close to Boyle and Carrick on Shannon areas).

Ideal for storing belongings for personal or business reasons. Short or long term contracts.

Keen rates. Available from late September 2020.

Tel. 087 6591787.

USEFUL SERVICES

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 1240639 evoroofingandguttering.com

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

No job too big or too small

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

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.

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

086 2437376

< GOOD QUALITY 10’x6’ loads of turf. Can be delivered. Also bags of turf. Tel. 086 3776948.

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

TURF AVAILABLE

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

Electrician Available

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

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

PEAT BEDDING

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

< 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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Tel: Donal

086 2721812

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission sought to construct slipway and fishing dock onto the River Suck with access roadway and parking area along with associated site works at Shankoagh, Castlerea on behalf Anthony Waldron of Ballintubber Development Association CLG.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application 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: Deane Associates, Williamstown Tel: (094) 9643079

(All areas)

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

SITUATIONS WANTED < KIND AND CARING lady with over 10 years experience available for childminding. Garda vetted and excellent references available. Castlerea area. PO Box no. 2021, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER WANTED for three school-going children in the Derrane area. Lovely hours. School pick-up required. Apply Box no. 2020, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < PART-TOME BAR STAFF required for pub five miles from Roscommon town. Apply Box no. 2022, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < CHILDMINDER WANTED 5 days per week for school term to mind 1 child (1 years old) in minder’s or child’s home. Four Mile House area. Tel. 086 8888492.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Neil Hennelly & Sinéad Blighe are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Derrydonnell Townland, Mote Park, 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 opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission 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 the application.

Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd, Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0878228529. E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie; Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brendan Kelly am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct dwelling house along with domestic garage, and to install a secondary sewage treatment system and a tertiary percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Castlepark, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the Reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission 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 the application.

Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd, Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0878228529. E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie; Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Sean Finan for planning permission for development To Construct a Open Slatted Shed with Loose Area, Handling Unit, Solar Panels, Water Harvesting System and Underground Slurry Storage Tank along with all Associated Site Works at Corgarve, Ballymurray, 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 opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission 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 the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742

37

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

RECYCLING

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

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Block 12, Galway H91 P5k5 Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Office: 094 9659428 Mobile: 087 2543722 24 Hour Service

New clients welcome Established 1990

l l l l l

Vaccinations Pet Passports Pain Management Neutering & Dentals Digital X-ray

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

www.glenamaddyveterinaryclinic.ie

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (inc. public sector) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (inc. competency-based) PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (e.g. retirement, new job, separation etc) * FIND YOURSELF STUCK IN A RUT? - (take back control and explore options!)

EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE/MAKE A BETTER MORE INFORMED DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

CLEANING Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday • Saturday Clinic 10am - 3pm Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

Tel: 090

6621220

KENNELS & CATTERY

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

S tephen H oare

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

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892 LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service l

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

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

FARMING

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

DRILLING SERVICE Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

GlenamaddyVeterinary Clinic F45 F430

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 or Kenneth on 086 8044030 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd.

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

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

PHONE: 086 8229606

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

www.roscommonwindows.ie

Window and Door Repairs BRENDAN DOOLIN

The Right Vet for your Pet

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

LIFE COACH

VETERINARY

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

38

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

APPOINTMENTS

AGENT WANTED

Feevaghmore, Dysart Died peacefully 28th June 2020

COSTELLO Anne

MONAGHAN Seán

Gortnadieve, Creggs, Co. Galway Died 08 June 2020

Kilrooskey, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Maragret’s sons John and Willie, daughters Breda, Christina and Margaret, and extended family would like to thank everyone who sympathised with us at this very sad time.

Thank you to everyone who phoned, sent messages, mass cards, flowers and messages of condolences on RIP.ie. Thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for the meaningful funeral Mass. To Liam and Marian Gately for their music and beautiful singing.

Thank you Michael of Dempsey’s Undertakers, for your professionalism at this difficult time. A sincere thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Mums final resting place. We would also like to thank all of those who lined the road from the church to the graveyard after the funeral Mass.

To Caroline and all of the wonderful staff at Central Park Nursing Home, Clonberne. Thank you for all of your care and kindness to Mum and all the family during her three and a half years stay there. To Dr. Martin Daly, her GP who looked after Mum so well.

Please accept this acknowledgement as a gesture of our appreciation. A mass will be offered at a later date.

Her daughter, Ellen, wishes to express her heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported and sympathised ith her on the passing of her mother, Anne.

Sincere thanks for all the personal and online condolences, those who sent Mass cards, messages of condolences, sympathy cards and telephoned from near and far. Thank you to everyone who lined the route outside their homes as the funeral cortege made its final journey from Kilbegnet Church to Glenamaddy Cemetery.

To Pat Smyth, the Funeral Director, for his professionalism and sensitivity and also to the grave diggers.

A special thank you to the Irish Wheelchair Association and all at Cuisle. To Fr. Donal Morris for his house calls during her illness and for celebrating the funeral Mass.

To. Dr. Martin and Miriam Daly and staff for their exceptional care, the Palliative Care team and Ruth, the OT – my sincere thanks.

Finally, to Josephine Ward, Aileen and Pat Purcell for their kind and compassionate care of Mum over the last few years and for affording her the privilege of staying in her own home, which was so important to her and the joy and laughter that you brought to our lives. I will be forever grateful.

DORAN Margaret (nee Dolan)

WORK FROM HOME ONLY

TELE-SALES POSITION

We Offer • An excellent payment and bonus package.

• Full training programme.

• A challenging and very rewarding career.

• Management prospect.

Applicant must • Be looking for a challenge in their life .

• Must have fluent English.

Job Description is available from the HR Department

by Telephoning 041-9803899 /086-0581174 or e-mail cv to hragencysales@gmail.com

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sean Lohan and Aisling Whelan intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct single storey dwelling, domestic garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, at Ballinderry, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6626974 / 086 8115449.

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the Reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission 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 the application.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

THANKSGIVINGS NOVENA TO ST. CLARE Ask St. Clare for 3 favours, 1 for business, 2 impossible and 9 nine Hail Marys for 9 days with lighted candle.

Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on 9th day.

Powerful Novena. Say ‘May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified now and forever, throughout the whole world. Amen.

Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. A.H.

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

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

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

It is sad to walk the road alone, Instead of side by side.

But to all there comes a moment, When the ways of life divide.

You gave me years of happiness, Then came sorrow and tears.

But you left me beautiful memories, I will treasure through the years.

Always on my mind, forever in my heart

GILLOOLY Martin & Mary Cartron, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

Until we meet again.

Love Helen.

Masses offered.

GALVIN Joseph (who died 03/07/1998)

(who died 13/01/2011)

Mount Mary, Ballygar (3rd Anniversary)

Memories never die, as years roll on and days pass by.

In our hearts, a memory is kept, of ones we loved and will never forget.

Remembered and sadly missed by all the family.

May they Rest In Peace.

TREACY Al

NEILAN Thomas (Senior)

Frenchlawn, Ballintubber and Burt, Co. Donegal (10th Anniversary) In loving memory of our dear brother Al, who passed away on 23rd July 2010.

Rest in Peace

Castlecoote, Roscommon.

Who died on 24th July 1969 RIP (51st Anniversary)

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card.

We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

Treasured memories of a dear father.

Always remembered and loved by your dear family.

The local paper!

In memory of my loving husband Seán, who passed away on 22nd July 2017.

R.I.P.

Remembered with love always by Sylvie, Nora and family.

In Loving memory of Joe who passed away on 19th July 2017.

R.I.P. Deep are the memories, Precious they stay.

No passing of time, can take them away.

Time slips by, life goes on, but from our thoughts you are never gone.

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure.

You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Sadly missed by his wife Dympna, sons Niall and Lóman, daughter-in-law Majella and grandson Iarla.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar, Co. Galway on Friday, 24th July at 7.30pm.

39

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KENNY Tom Strangeforth, Williamstown (13th Anniversary)

FEERICK Bridie

KEANE Margaret

Late of Four Mile House (15th Anniversary)

Kilbegnet, Creggs, Co. Roscommoon (1st Anniversary) who died 29th July 2019

BURNS Conor Beechgrove, Co. Roscommon.

In loving memory of Conor, who passed away on 21st July 2008 (aged 3 months) (12th Anniversary)

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: sales@brianmurraystone.com In loving memory of Tom who died on 30th July 2007 Our lives go on without you but nothing is the same.

We have to hide our heartache when someone speaks your name.

Sad are the hearts that love you Silent the tears that fall Living our lives without you Is the hardest part of all.

You did so many things for us, your heart was kind and true And when we needed someonne we could always count on you.

The special years will not return when we were all together but with love within our hearts, you will walk walk with us forever.

Sadly missed by his wife Mary, daughters Annmarie, and Norrie, sons-in-law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 26th July at 10am.

HAYDEN Joe Lisagallon, Roscommon.

(6th Anniversary) In loving memory of Joe, who died on 21st July 2014

Will those who think of Joe today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by Bernadette and family.

Masses offered.

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother and grandmother Who died on 10th of July 2005 You are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Missed and lovingly remembered by her family.

Masses offered.

GERAGHTY Martin Moneymore, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

Your life was love and labour Your love for your family true You did your best for all of us We will always remember and love you

From Noreen and all your family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 8th August at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

GILL Mary K (nee Farrell and formerly Dozin) Weekfield, Roscommon.

Treasured memories of Mary K., beloved mother and Nana, who died on the 23rd of July 2005.

R.I.P (15th Anniversary)

On this the first anniversary of Margaret’s death, we, her family, would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who sympathised with us following our sad loss.

We are very grateful to everybody who attended the removal, funeral Mass and burial, especially those who travelled long distances. Thanks also to everybody who called to the house, brought refreshments, sent mass cards, phoned and texted.

We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Fr. Donal Morris for guiding us through the difficult funeral days, and to Tom and Pat Smyth for their professional and compassionate handling of the funeral arrangements.

Thanks to Fiona Brandon and Creggs N.S Junior Choir and Eve Smyth for the beautiful singing in the church, and to James Shevlin for the two beautiful songs at her graveside.

Thanks to the gravediggers for preparing her final resting place with such care, to Michael and Carmel O’Roarke, Creggs and Cuisle, Donamon for providing refreshments.

We wish to acknowledge the staff of Tithe na gCarad, Castlerea and Sonas Care Centre, Cloverhill for their kindness and friendship.

Finally, a very special word of thanks to all her wonderful neighbours and friends who were so good for calling to see her down through the years.

As it is impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

Margaret’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday July 26th at 11:30am. Due to Covid-19 regulations attendance at the church is restricted, the mass will be broadcast locally on 106.5fm. Your ongoing support and understanding is appreciated.

One Year has passed since that sad day, When one we loved was called away.

God took her home. It was His will, But in our hearts she lives on still.

BURNS Mount Dillon, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of our parents and sister, Joey Annie Carmel

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her daughters, sons, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren and extended family.

Mass will be offered.

Remembered by your dad Marty and sister Leah. xx

Always remembered by Marty and Leah.

------------------------------------------------------------Our thoughts are ever with ye, though ye have passed away And those who loved ye dearly, are thinking of ye today

Remembered by Nuala, Johnny, Lisa and Alan.

Rooskey

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

12 Beechgrove, Co. Roscommon.

(2nd Anniversary)

Today recalls the memory of a loved one gone to rest And those who think of him today are those who loved him best.

The flowers we lay upon his grave may wither and decay But the love for him who lies beneath, will never fade away.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Loved and remembered by wife Catherine and family.

FARRELL William (Billy)

Email or call for Sample Pack

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

26th September 2000 10th September 1976

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us everyday, Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Will those who think of Joey, Annie and Carmel A little prayer to Jesus say.

Rogers Funeral Directors

LEONARD Joe

Roxboro, Roscommon.

(5th Anniversary)

27th July 2007

Many a lovely thought, Many a silent tear, Always treasured memories of someone we loved so dear.

Deep in our hearts you are fondly remembered, Sweet, happy memories cling around your name.

True hearts that loved you with deepest affection, Always will love you in death, just the same.

In loving memory of my dear brother Billy who died on 29th July 2015 You will always be remembered and missed by your loving brother John.

Anniversary Mass in Derrane Church on Saturday, 1st August at 7pm.

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT QUIGLEY: 087 7799076 PAUL O’CONNOR: 086 6052649

• Headstones • Kerbed Memorials • Grave Site Care • Headstone Cleaning • Monument Levelling • Gravestone Repair

40

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

Sports PEOPLE Finally, the chase for Fahey Cup begins < SEAMUS DUKE

This weekend the Roscommon SFC begins, and – especially in light of Covid-19 lockdown – it’s one of the most eagerlyawaited in many years. Defending champions Padraig Pearses will again be the team to beat, but expect a big challenge from Clann na nGael, Roscommon Gaels, Boyle, Western Gaels and possibly St. Brigid’s.

Game of the Weekend Padraig Pearses v Boyle on Sunday in Pairc an Piarsiagh at 2 pm The sides met at the semi-final stage last year, a chaotic rollercoaster of a match in which three Pearses players saw red. After a brilliant first 45 minutes, the eventual champions were left hanging on for dear life.

For Pearses, the Daly brothers, Davy Murray, Paul Carey and Hubert Darcy will be hoping to stamp their intercounty experience on proceedings, while Enda and Donie Smith, Cian McKeon, Evan McGrath and Tadhg McKenna will hope to inspire Basil Mannion’s side to a win.

The game will be streamed live by the County Board so people who cannot get a ticket will be able to see what

promises to be a cracker. On home soil, Pearses should be able to edge it.

Prediction: Padraig Pearses.

ons. I’m predicting a win for Roscommon Gaels and St. Croan’s v Fuerty could well finish level.

Fixtures Roscommon Gaels v Western Gaels on Saturday at Lisnamult at 5 pm; St Croan’s v Fuerty on Saturday at Enfield at 7 pm

GROUP A…at a glance The meeting of old rivals Clann na nGael and St. Brigid’s will be fascinating. The return of Fergal Lennon for Clann (under new manager Liam Kerins) is a huge boost to them. Ultan Harney is doubtful (with a hamstring injury).

St. Brigid’s are in transition and Mark Daly is a long-term absentee. Senan Kilbride will be available for the first two rounds before heading off to Dubai for work purposes. They have plenty of young talent but this might be a year too soon for them.

Strokestown are always worth consideration in any discussion about possible title contenders, but they have flattered to deceive so often in the recent past.

Elphin will relish the challenge of playing in this group but will miss Shane Killoran. I’m predicting wins for Clann and Strokestown.

Fixtures Clann na nGael v St Brigid’s on Saturday at Dr Hyde Park at 7 pm; Elphin v Strokestown on Saturday at 7 pm in Kilmore

GROUP B…at a glance The very attractive meeting of Roscommon Gaels and Western Gaels brings two old friends (and now rival team managers) Liam McNeill and Fergal O’Donnell together in a head-

GROUP C…at a glance The big game here is the clash of the champions Padraig Pearses and Boyle (see Game of Weekend). Last year’s intermediate champions Tulsk face a tough fixture against a Michael Glavey’s side that has a number of county players. Success for Tulsk would be to retain their senior status.

Glavey’s to win.

Fixtures Padraig Pearses v Boyle on Sunday in Pairc an Piarsiagh at 2 pm; Michael Glavey’s v Tulsk on Saturday in Ballinlough at 4 pm

More action…

Sunday, July 26

Roscommon Gaels’ forward Kieran Kilcline holds onto possession despite the attentions of David Butler (Strokestown) during the Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC semi-final at Dr. Hyde Park last year. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

to-head. The town side have been knocking at the door for the past five years and are hoping this will be their year.

Scott Oates is back and Mark Healy will also have a vital role to play. Patrick Fannon is an interesting addition to their armoury.

Western Gaels will be hoping for a revival under ‘Fergie’ and will be looking to the Creggs, Ciaran Cafferky and Seanie McDermott for inspiration as usual.

St. Croan’s will be eyeing up a possible victory against Fuerty, who are without Niall Kilroy and Aengus Ly-

Junior A Football Championship Group A Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St Joseph’s. 2 pm Frenchpark: Western Gaels v St Dominic’s. 2 pm Note: There is a full round of games in the first round of the Roscommon LGFA Senior, Intermediate and Junior championship this weekend. Kilbride will be defending their senior title once again.

All eyes on Ballinlough as Cox makes debut Mulryan Construction IFC < SEAMUS DUKE

GROUP A…at a glance The much overused cliché ‘Group of death’ can certainly be applied here. One fancied team will end up in a relegation battle.

All eyes will be on Ballinlough on Sunday when Conor Cox makes his debut for Eire Og against Castlerea St. Kevin’s. I will sit on the fence and go for a draw.

There is another cracking game on the cards in Elphin when Kilmore face Oran. Kilmore are a great championship side with a superb never-say-die attitude, but Oran have a lot of classy young players and they should be good enough to win narrowly.

Fixtures Eire Og v Castlerea St Kevin’s on Sunday in Ballinlough at 4 pm; Kilmore v Oran on Sunday in Elphin at 3 pm

GROUP B…at a glance Flashback to last year: Tulsk sponsor, Barry Miley pictured holding the Jimmy Murray Cup with Tulsk management, Gerry Lohan and Seamus O’Neill. Pic: Mick McCormack

It was a big surprise to see St. Faithleach’s lose their senior status last year. Now they enter this championship as warm favourites

to make a quick return. With the Murtaghs on board they should start with a win against St. Aidan’s at Dr. Hyde Park.

There is an attractive local derby in prospect as Kilbride face Creggs. Creggs have some excellent players and should start the season with a win.

Fixtures St Faithleach’s v St Aidan’s on Saturday in Dr Hyde Park at 3 pm; Kilbride v Creggs on Saturday in Rockfield at 4.30 pm

GROUP C…at a glance St. Dominic’s are great championship battlers and are always there or thereabouts when it comes to the IFC. They should start with a win against a St. Barry’s side who will be very happy to retain their intermediate status this year again.

Last year’s junior champions Ballinameen begin their campaign with a very winnable game against neighbours Shannon Gaels.

This one could well end in a draw.

Fixtures St Barry’s v St Dominic’s on Saturday in Ballyleague at 7 pm; Ballinameen v Shannon Gaels on Sunday in Ardcarne Park at 1 pm

41

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

SportsPeople

Performance

of the weekend

Tremane’s Liam Murray looks to evade Roscommon Gaels’ Fintan Doyle during Saturday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Round 1 Group B game at Tremane. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Camán the Rossies Weekend form-watch!

HURLING WATCH with Seamus Duke

For Pearses, Colin Kelly performed very well at midfield, while Daniel Glynn looked back to his best in the first half (before tiring). Oisin Kelly was also in great form at full-forward, scoring four fine points from play. For Oran, Hugh Rooney fought a lone battle for much of the game, while Jerry Fallon’s customary accuracy kept them in the match until half-time.

Mickey Joe Egan, Tommy Doyle and Jack Lohan played well for Dominic’s while Cathal

Dolan, Paddy Kenny and James Cunniffe caught the eye for a below-par Four Roads.

John Brennan and the Kellehans played well for Tremane but much bigger tests lie ahead for Seamus Qualter’s men. For Roscommon Gaels, Diarmuid Mulry was the stand-out performer.

Note: The next round of games will take place on the weekend of 8th/9th August.

Padraig Pearses edge out St. Dominic’s for this accolade. It took Shane Sweeney’s men a while to get going against Oran, but when they did they looked mightily impressive. The return of Daniel Glynn is a huge boost to them and while he was a little rusty after such a long absence, he will be vital for them later in this championship. The form of Oisin Kelly, Cathal Kelly and Luke Corbett will also be a source of optimism for Pearses going forward. On the evidence of this display they are definite contenders for the title. As for Oran, they are too reliant on Jerry Fallon for scores and are struggling up front.

St Dominic’s did everything in their power not to win against Four Roads as they were the better team for most of the game in Ballyforan. Too many wides/ missed chances cost them dearly. That the champions chiselled out a draw in the circumstances says a lot about their resilience, but you can be certain that they will respond positively to this wake-up call.

Dominic’s – who were without Naos Connaughton – looked well prepared, and Mickey Joe Egan, Tommy Doyle, Ronan Kilcline and Jack Lohan all stood out for them. The key game now will be the clash of Dominic’s and Oran. On the evidence of the weekend’s action St. Dominic’s will be the favourites to win that one. Four Roads will know they will have to improve but will be delighted to have escaped from this match with a draw Tremane easily dealt with the challenge offered by a very young Roscommon Gaels outfit, who are destined to struggle in the championship again this year.

The Gaels were competitive in the opening quarter but once John Brennan and Mike Kellehan got going for Tremane, they pulled away and won easily. Athleague had a bye.

Hurling results Kepak Roscommon SHC Round 1 (Group A): Four Roads 1-14 St Dominic’s 1-14; Padraig Pearses 3-20 Oran 1-11 Kepak Roscommon SHC Round 1 (Group B): Tremane 2-22 Roscommon Gaels 1-7

Sherlock ‘homes’ in on title Roscommon & District Soccer (Premier) League St Peter’s 3 Castlerea Celtic 2 < SEAMUS DUKE

They may have had to wait over four months, but St. Peter’s underlined their status as the kingpins of the Roscommon & District Soccer League with this thrilling win against rivals Castlerea Celtic at McCarthy Park, Athlone last Saturday evening.

Castlerea travelled in the knowledge that a draw or a win would have given them the Premier League title, while Peter’s knew that only a win would be good enough to see them retain their crown. They duly managed that on their own ground, thus securing their third title in succession.

Played in brilliant summer sunshine, it was a very competitive and incident-packed match. It has to be said that St. Peter’s were the better side and looked the more likely winners all through, although Castlerea made them fight all the way to the finishing line.

The home side really needed an early breakthrough, and that came in the 15th minute when John McCrossan’s ball in from the left-hand touchline was volleyed home by Mark Sherlock.

Peter’s were the better side for most of the half, although Castlerea were improving, and after the ‘drinks break’ the visitors played some of their best football.

Castlerea were level in the 36th minute after a corner from Paul Mee caused confusion in the home defence and Ian Dempsey prodded the ball home from short range. Darran Clabby and Dempsey then had chances before half-time for the visitors, but the score remained 1-1 at the break.

St. Peter’s took the initiative again on the restart and in the 47th minute they scored a peach of a goal. Once again McCrossan did the spadework. It has to be said that Sherlock had a lot of work to do – 22 yards out from goal – but some brilliant skill and a precise shot just inside the post saw his side ahead once again. It was a fantastic goal.

Peter’s were in control now and looked to have put the game to bed in the 60th minute when, after Sherlock was fouled, veteran midfielder and captain Darragh Concannon planted the resultant 20-yard free-kick in the top corner. 3-1.

In fairness to Castlerea they never gave up the ghost and they were back in the game in the 85th minute when sub Peter Farrell scored from close range on the rebound after Ronan Curran’s initial shot was blocked on the line. It meant that another goal for Castlerea would have given them the title, but in truth they never had a clear chance in the final minutes and Peter’s saw it out to claim the spoils.

The home side have proven once again that they are the team to beat in the RDSL, and with players like John McCrossan, Darragh Concannon and Mark Sherlock on board they will be a very difficult proposition again next season, assuming they keep their team together. Paul Mee, Jack Higgins and sub Nathan Bligh were most prominent for Castlerea.

Note: A minute’s applause was held prior to kickoff in memory of the late Garda Detective Colm Horkan.

St. Peter’s: Aidan Fallon, David Donoghue, John McCrossan (Conor Duignan, 87), Kevin Dunne, JP Stephens, Ian Dempsey, Darragh Concannon, Mark McConnell, Mark Sherlock, Mark Hehir (Phillip

Coffey, 80), Gary Kelly (Jonathan Maloney, 80).

Castlerea Celtic: Martin Hrzenjak, David Fitzpatrick (Nathan Bligh, 9), Kevin Finn, Cathal Dineen, Eoghan O’Connell, Jack Higgins, Daniel Connolly (Peter Farrell, 72), Jarlath Geraghty, Ronan Curran, Darren Clabby, Paul Mee (Dominic Bligh, 55).

Referee: Gerry Carmody.

Man of the Match: Mark Sherlock (St Peter’s)

Roscommon & Distict League fixtures Friday 24th July 2020 Division Two Ballaghaderren B v St John’s Athletic B at 7.30 pm.

A. Bolarinwa Skyvalley Rovers B v Moore Utd B at 7.30 pm. M. Loftus Saturday 25th July 2020 Premier Division Boyle Celtic v Skyvalley Rovers at 7.30 pm. D. Jordan, S. Fox, J. Murray Sunday 26th of July 2020 Connacht Cup St Bernard’s v St Peter’s FC. 2 pm. Galway officials Ballyglass v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm. Mayo officials Castlerea Celtic v Connacht Rangers at 2 pm. G. Carmody Connacht Shield Ballaghaderreen v Mervue B. 2 pm. E. Collins Division One Dysart v CP Ajax. 2 pm. G. Kelly Roscommon Utd v Castlerea Celtic B. 11 am. R. Stokes Cloonfad Utd v Rahara Rovers. 11 am. B. Quigley Division 2 Roscommon Utd B v St Cuan’s. 2 pm. B. Kelly Manor Utd v Glen Cletic. 2 pm. P. Harkin

Darragh Concannon, captain of St. Peter’s, proudly holds the Premier League trophy.

42

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

SportsPeople

Short putts (News from local golf clubs)

Boyle

Next Sunday’s competition for the men will be the much-anticipated ‘Voucher’, with the winner receiving a free membership voucher for the year or the price of an adult single membership deducted from a family membership. The format will be 18-hole Strokeplay. You must be a member for 2020 to be eligible to win first prize, so please pay any outstanding memberships this week!

The club will be holding a fundraiser for the club itself over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The format will be decided this week.

Castlerea

The first 18 holes of the Captain’s Prize event was played in perfect conditions on Sunday, the 19th of July. It is a very pleasant but unfamiliar sight in recent years to see the car park at full capacity, but such was the case last Sunday as huge numbers teed off, all hoping to be in with a chance of winning Mr. Liam Callaghan’s Captain’s Prize.

Of course that coveted prize could not be won on the day and those who performed well on day one will have to impress again on Saturday, the 25th of July. All is to play for. Official results of the first round are not yet confirmed (in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines), making the competition even more exciting.

Despite distancing regulations and restrictions there was a wonderful atmosphere around the clubhouse on Sunday.

The members of Castlerea Golf Club wish to express their sincere thanks to our Captain Liam Callaghan on his commitment to the club and all his hard work this year. We wish him a very enjoyable prize day on Saturday, the 25th of July.

Carrick-on -Shannon

Ladies Our final July competition is the Di Vino

Horses by Tom Red for Courses

Italian Restaurant (Stableford). Over the August bank holiday weekend we have our Greensmower Classic to look forward to. Team of four €200, with €30 reentry per person. First prize is an overnight in the K Club including evening meal and a round of golf on their Ryder Cup course.

There are also prizes for Best Ladies Team, Yellow Ball Competition, Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive and Accuracy Drive. Book online or contact club on 071 9667015.

Men Voucher Competition: On Saturday and Sunday, the 25th and 26th of July we have the voucher competition.

Lynch Cup: Congrats to all the first round winners in the Lynch Cup. Also, well done on playing all matches on time. The second round matches must be played within the next two weeks.

Roscommon

Congratulations to Serena O’Farrell, Lady Captain’s prize-winner 2020. 2nd was Bernie Maher. Gross went to Ruth Lennon. 3rd was Rosemary O’Brien, 4th Joan Moran, 5th Marguerite Farrell, 6th Linda Maxwell. Day 1 winner Paula Miley, Day 2 winner Catherine Waldron, Junior prize winner Leah Lennon.

Well done to all the ladies that took part in the various competitions during the week and thank you to our Lady Captain Sandra and her hard-working committee for organising a great week of golf.

Our President’s Prize (Ms. Tresina Smyth) competition commenced on Sunday with a qualifying round, which saw some great golf and super scores.

The draw for the next round is now available on the notice board in the clubhouse.

First-round matches to be completed by Monday, 3rd of August.

The President’s Prize Final is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 5th of September. We send our very best wishes to Brian Feeley and his Junior Cup team who play Castlerea GC in the first round of the 202m AIG Junior Cup on Saturday next.

Colin Keane wins on Even So with Cayenne Pepper, red cap, second and Passion, on the rails 3rd

Today’s action is on the level at Leopardstown at 1.00pm and over the jumps at Limerick off at 4.45pm. Tomorrow evening the action over jumps is at Cork first race at 4.05pm and on the flat in the north at Down Royal away at 1.00pm featuring the Ulster Derby and Ulster Oaks.

Saturday flat racing is at the Gowran Park at 1.20pm and over the sticks at Tramore with a 4.40pm start. On Sunday, the Curragh meeting features the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup racing begins at 1.45pm. Monday sees the start of the Galway Racing Festival for 7 days behind closed doors.

No racing televised this weekend on RTE, but the cameras will be at Ballybrit next week. Virgin Media One features live racing from Ascot and York from 1.25pm to 4.30pm on Saturday which includes the King George Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

There are 21 entered in the Tattersalls Gold Cup on Sunday with 10 from Aidan O’Brien, seeking his 9th win in the race, including Magical who is also entered at Ascot on Saturday but will probably run here.

There are 8 entered in the King George Queen Elizabeth at Ascot on Saturday, 2 from John Gosden’s yard including Enable and 6 from Ballydoyle headed by Magical and Japan. There is money for Japan, 6/1 to 7/2, but it will be surprising if Enable does not improve on her 2nd behind Ghaiyyath on her seasonal debut in the Eclipse.

This year’s Galway Festival is being run behind closed doors and the racing programme is different to years gone by. The first 2 days are all flat races followed by 3 days of national hunt fare and finishing with 2 all flat cards.

On Monday racing begins at 4.40pm and features as usual the Connaught Hotel Qualified Riders Handicap over 2m with 40 entries. Willie Mullins has 12 entered, Joseph O’Brien 4 and Dermot Weld, Tony Martin, Joseph Murphy and Luke Comer 2 each. 3 handicaps and 3 maidens, including a 1m 6f for amateur riders, complete the card.

Tuesday starts at 4.45pm features the Colm Quinn BMW Mile Handicap along with the Listed Colm Quinn EBF Corrib Fillies Stakes. There are 43 entered in the BMW Mile Handicap. Racing opens with 2 maiden races and there are 3 more handicaps on the card.

Tremane’s Seamus Lynch and Roscommon Gaels’ James Mooney in action during Saturday’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Round 1 Group B game at Tremane. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

National hunt racing on Wednesday at 4.45pm features the Grade A Galway Plate Handicap Chase and opens with a Listed Novice Hurdle. Two handicap hurdles, a maiden hurdle, a handicap chase and 2 bumpers one for mares and the other for 4-Y-O’s, both confined to amateur riders complete the card. There are 35 entries in the Plate with Peter Fahy’s Peregrine Falcon, 4th last year, sharing top weight of 11st 10lbs with Jessica Harrington’s Jett and Gordon Elliott’s The Storyteller. Elliott, seeking a hattrick of wins, has 9 horses entered, Willie Mullins has 6 including the 2018 Hurdle runner-up Blazer, Henry de Bromhead 5 and Joseph O’Brien 4. Owner JP McManus has 7 horses entered and Gigginstown 5. Mullins’ Easy Game is 6/1 ante post favourite with Elliott’s Galvin 7/1

and Peregrine Run 8/1, and it is 10/1 bar. Next week there will be a closer look at the last 4 days of Galway.

Review of the Week Last month Ger Lyons and Colin Keane made their Classic breakthrough with Siskin winning the 2,000 Guineas at the Currragh. Last Saturday, again at the Curragh, Lyons and Keane struck again winning their 2nd Irish Classic of the season, the Oaks, with 10/1 shot Even So. The filly beat the fav Cayenne Pepper trained by Jessica Harrington and ridden by Shane Foley 2l with the Ballydoyle trained Passion a ½l away in third with Billy Lee aboard. The winner is owned by Mrs John Magnier and Mrs Paul Shanahan part of the Coolmore Syndicate, who also own the third.

There were more celebrations in the Moran household on Scrine last Sunday as their uncle Niall Egan, a brother of jockey John and uncle of David, trained his first winner last weekend. The 28/1 shot Elzaamone won the closing sprint at the Curragh by ½l and 2l from Boughtinthedark and Snow Patch.

Racing News Former champion jockey Jamie Spencer resumed race riding on Saturday at York in the 3.40 race when he finished 2nd on Predjuice for David Simcock. The Classicwinning rider had been out of action since the middle of April, after breaking his hip on the gallops in Newmarket.

National Hunt trainer Laura Mongan has had to change her name on race cards after long-standing frustration at being mistaken for fellow flat trainer Laura Mongan. The Leicestershire trainer will now appear as L J Mongan, ‘J’ the initial of her middle name Jayne, in an attempt to avoid the mix up that inevitably occurs.

The French Government allowed public attendance at racing for the first time since the restart at Deauville on Sunday and again at Longchamp on Tuesday. The instruction to stay a metre distant from one another is not easily observed in Deauville’s intimate surroundings on Sunday but the wearing of masks was near universally observed. Roll on Irish racing.

The answer to last week’s poser is that Lester Piggott rode all 3 on the flat, Red Rum twice in his early life, Sea Pigeon to victory in Ascot and Norton’s Coin in his only flat race at Royal Ascot. Dominick Tobin knows his horses, but he gave the answer that Lester Piggott rode all 3 as 2-Y-O’s. He is right with Red Rum and Sea Pigeon both as 2-Y-O’s, but Norton’s Coin was a 10-Y-O in the Queen Alexandra Stakes at Royal Ascot in 1991. He also rode Red Rum as a 3-Y-O. Point to Point News Point-to-Point and Country Fair at Dowth, County Meath will not take place this year. The point-to-point was due to take place on Sunday October 25 and was including the Autumn fixture list released by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board last Friday in error.

Point to Point rider Johnny Vance, who passed away on Tuesday, was laid to rest this morning in Clones. He is survived by his wife Syljiva, children Daniel, Arabella and Chloe, mother Maeve and siblings. Johnny, along with his late father Billy, represented the true Corinthian point-topoint participants. The family are steeped in hunting and point-to-point tradition. R.I.P.

43

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY

‘At 24, the Clones Cyclone has swept one of the great champions out of the way…’ survived to the final bell, all 15 rounds. Sheer pride had kept him going. But he had been downed by a textbook right – the punch of a lifetime – and he had been beaten. The judges confirmed that Barry McGuigan was the winner on points, and the new WBA Featherweight Champion of the World.

McGuigan, who later lost his title to Steve Cruz (an ill-fated choice, given the punishing heat of Las Vegas) remains one of the most popular figures in boxing. These days, he’s a successful promoter and a highly-respected pundit.

Because of one magical night in particular, but also because of a swashbuckling career which peaked in Loftus Road stadium – and because he was such an exciting fighter and such a great ambassador for this island – Barry McGuigan will always be an Irish sporting hero. (I’ve never met him…but read on…).

HEROES

REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS

The golden era of heavyweight boxing – that epic theatre served up in the early 1970s, with Ali, Frazier and Foreman as modernday gladiators – was all I needed when it came to the so-called noble art.

I have to confess to being barely aware of the other weight divisions. Looking back, I doubt if they had any of the media profile of the heavyweight division.

Maybe it fell to Harry Carpenter to break it to me…the reality that there was quality boxing fare beyond the mad circus of the heavyweight scene.

Harry was the likeable BBC commentator, all cheerful and chappy, like a favourite uncle. His commentaries were breathless, excited, enthusiastic. By around 1980, and with TV coverage of the sport increasing all the time, I realised there were great champions who didn’t have to be built like George Foreman. I guess it makes sense, when you have so many different weight divisions!

Yet, this was an eye-opener to many of us.

Truth is, we had been drawn to boxing because of the amazing charisma of Ali…and once he was centre stage, all eyes were on those epic heavyweight showdowns, with Ali – the hype-master extraordinaire – expertly orchestrating it all. The heavyweight scene was where glamour, courage, power, money, superstardom, success and heartbreak met and intertwined. Millions of fans lapped it up.

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Madison Square Garden!”

But now, my generation discovered there were exceptional pugilists below the heavyweight division. There were great champions there too, and emerging rivalries that would make the 1980s very memorable. There was, as in the heavyweight division, tragedy and triumph, the whiff of menace merged with the promise of supreme sporting combat.

We discovered Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran and others…a new cast of characters, great athletes…brave warriors…some of them amongst the most gifted and courageous the sport has seen.

Personally – and I think it’s broadly true of many of my generation – the 1980s, aided by clever marketing and growing TV coverage, opened a new window on a sport which, for all its dubious aspects, we find it so hard to look away from. Yes, this was one long golden era for this sometimes brutal sport; and we couldn’t get enough of the combatants.

Meanwhile, in Clones…

Cyclone warning

I won’t claim to be an expert on Barry McGuigan, or on boxing generally – because I’m not. Did I know much about Barry McGuigan before the early 1980’s? Probably not.

I am, mind you, well aware of how Ireland… eh…punches above its weight in this sport.

I’m no expert, but I reckon we’re a truly great boxing nation. We’ve produced great boxers, including many world champions. We’ve be-

Mrs McGuigan’s shop… come a real force in the Olympics. Fast-forward (from the McGuigan era) to 1995 and I’ll never forget the atmosphere when watching Steve Collins in two great fights with Chris Eubank.

Back to Barry. By 1985, the ‘Clones Cyclone’ was already an Irish hero. He was European Champion. There had been many great nights at the King’s Hall in Belfast, McGuigan thrilling fans. The public loved his all-action style. We loved his personality too. He managed to cross the political divide, being popular in the Republic, the North, and the UK. My late father informed me of an interesting fact. Barry’s father had sung in our bar! Our family opened the renowned Kon Tiki Bar & Lounge in Rooskey in 1970. We had many top performers on stage, including Pat McGuigan, who had represented Ireland in the 1968 Eurovision Song Contest.

Back to Barry (again). By the summer of ’85, the Clones man – brilliantly promoted by Barney Eastwood (though they later had a very high profile falling out) had earned his shot at a world featherweight title.

His opponent would be Eusebio Pedroza. The Panamanian boxer had an incredible record.

By 1985, he was unbeaten as world champion for over seven years. While he was older than McGuigan, and arguably beginning to decline, he was a great champion with a phenomenal record (18 successful defences)…and it seemed unlikely that he would be beaten.

The venue was Loftus Road, home of London soccer club Queens Park Rangers. The date was 8th of June 1985. Barry McGuigan went through his pre-bout routine in his dressing room. He could hear thunderous noise outside, the stadium bulging with thousands of Irish fans. In the dressing room across from him, a cool, calm champion. Eusebio Pedroza had done this for seven years. Unbeaten champion of the world. Muhammad Ali once claimed to have “handcuffed lightning and thrown thunder in jail”. You suspected, with his imposing gravitas and ringcraft, that Pedroza could most likely stop a cyclone, however fiercely it raged.

Loftus Road, 8 June 1985 (Round 7)

‘McGuigan’s work has not been so effective in this round. He hasn’t found the range. Yes he

did, he’s got him with a right! Oh! The champion’s over in the seventh! He found him with a right! The compulsory count…is the title about to change hands? 30 seconds to go. Can McGuigan do it here and now? We thought he’d find him with a left hook, and he found him with a right…I can hardly hear myself speak to you, under the inferno of sound!’

Later…

‘I’ve never heard such a sound in my life as this crowd is creating here…McGuigan going for the win…ten seconds (left)…and Pedroza is going to survive. What a marvellous champion. And that surely must be the end of Pedroza’s reign as champion…McGuigan is the champion! They’ve (the judges) voted for him…and 25,000 people in the stadium have voted for him. At 24, the Clones Cyclone has swept one of the great champions out of the way…’

– BBC commentator Harry Carpenter

‘The punch of a lifetime’

My family had moved from Rooskey to Strokestown, having bought a small hotel (the Strokestown Arms). An exotic new world!

We were only open a day or two when the McGuigan-Pedroza fight came up. The bar in the Strokestown Arms was packed. Loftus Road was packed. Little did we realise, one of the great Irish sporting moments was about to present itself. It was before the era of pubs having three/four/five TV screens in a premises. We had one television, propped high in the centre of the long bar. What an atmosphere!

Before the fight began, Barry’s father, Pat McGuigan (Eurovision, Kon Tiki in Rooskey!) stood in the crowded ring and sang an emotional version of Danny Boy. Thousands of Irish fans present in Loftus Road sang it with him (see YouTube). Unforgettable.

The place exploded with raucous joy when McGuigan downed Pedroza with that glorious punch in Round 7. What a sporting moment!

McGuigan was relentless, full of energy and youth, and packing a punch too. A terrifically exciting fighter. Pedroza was magnificent too.

He was proud, stubborn, a true champion. Challenged now by Father Time – and by a hungry, brilliant young opponent – Pedroza heroically

A footnote: How times have changed. From 1986 to 1988, I was working in Cavan Town.

A little while after Barry McGuigan beat Pedroza and won the world title, I found myself in Clones one day. GAA fans will be familiar with the steep entry to this quaint town and its big square (‘The Diamond’). Knowing that Barry McGuigan lived in Clones, and that his mother had a shop in the town, I drove around to have a look. To my surprise, parked in the square opposite McGuigan’s Foodmarket was Barry McGuigan’s sports car. I can’t recall what model it was, but I’d seen a photo of the world champion and his fancy sports car in the papers. Now, here it was, parked opposite his mother’s shop, without any of the security or airs or graces one might have expected. It was a bit of a thrill just to see it; if I recall correctly it had ‘Clones Cyclone’ emblazoned somewhere on its flashy exterior (somewhere in the world, someone was working on smartphones and the concept of selfies). There was nobody around; just me and a world champion’s flashy car. I went into the shop, and there was Barry McGuigan’s mother, a small, friendly woman, living the life of the small shopkeeper: handing cigarettes over the counter, chit-chatting with locals, her singing till reminiscent of the bell at a boxing ring. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t brave or audacious enough to ask ‘Is Barry in?’. Instead, I bought a bar of chocolate from the mother of the man who downed Pedroza.

Back outside, I admired the world champion’s car a final time before getting back into my long-suffering and extremely modest Toyota Starlet, by now as dinted and traumatised as poor Pedroza’s jaw!

The series so far…

1: Tony Currie & Trevor Brooking 2: Steve Davis, Jimmy White & Ken Doherty 3: Con Houlihan 4: Eamonn Coghlan 5: Bjorn Borg 6: Muhammad Ali 7: Dermot Earley 8: Liam Brady 9: Tony Ward & Ollie Campbell 10: Seve Ballesteros 11: Sonia O’Sullivan 12: George Best 13: Alex Higgins 14: Paul McGrath 15: Jack Charlton 16: Barry McGuigan.

For previous columns, see www.roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 24 July 2020

44

www.eurona.ie

sales@eurona-brisknet.ie

PHONE

090 66 34319

Your local choice

Providing Super Broadband to ROSCOMMON • EAST GALWAY • LONGFORD

Here for the Community All New Packages for 2020: FREE R!

20

UNLIMITED DATA

DOWNLOAD SPEEDS

DOWNLOAD SPEEDS

UPLOAD SPEEDS

UPLOAD SPEEDS

UP TO

UP TO

20MB

20MB

€35

per month

UN LIM I

D TE

60

UNLIMITED DATA

DOWNLOAD SPEEDS UP TO

60MB

UPLOAD SPEEDS UP TO

20MB

€50 per month

UP TO

UP TO

20MB

20MB

UNLIMITED DATA

DOWNLOAD SPEEDS UP TO

UP TO

WE OFFER TRULY UNLIMITED DATA!

20MB

€45

per month

END OF YEAR UPGRADES PLANNED WITH EVEN FASTER SPEEDS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST

40MB

UPLOAD SPEEDS

€40

FREE UPGRADES TO ALL NEW 2020 PACKAGES

40

D TE

UN LIM I

1000 GB DATA ALLOWANCE

ED IT

INST ALLA TION

per month

UN LIM

20

UN LIM

10 0

0G

TE ROU

B

FREE

Totally Unlimited Data

100

ED T I UNLIMITED DATA

DOWNLOAD SPEEDS UP TO

100MB

UPLOAD SPEEDS UP TO

50MB

€65 per month

PHONE SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE

!