24 May 2024 Roscommon People

WILLS MATTER –LEGAL RIGHT SHARE

I am asking this question for a friend who lives in another part of the country. Her husband died recently but only left her a right to live in their home for the reminder of her life. He left everything to his son. My friend is devastated and said that “she doesn’t even own the roof over her head”. Is there anything she can do to challenge this will?

The straightforward answer is yes. When a spouse is left out of a will, the law governing wills, being the Succession Act, 1965, steps in and provides unique protection for spouses. A spouse is entitled to onehalf of the estate of the deceased spouse if he/she died having made a valid will and had no children. A spouse is entitled to one-third of the estate of the deceased spouse if he/she died having made a valid will and had children. A spouse does not have to go to court to get their entitlement as the executor is obliged to grant this share where applicable.

Another avenue which may be explored would be the issue of mental capacity of the deceased person who made the will (the Testator). In order to make a valid will the Testator must, in the eyes of the law, possess the mental capacity to do so. This means that the individual making the will must not be suffering from any mental condition which would compromise their ability to give full and rational instructions in relation to their will. The mental capacity of the testator is relevant at the time of making the will and not at the time of death. Being elderly in itself does not suggest that a person lacks mental capacity to make a will. If there is an issue as regards mental capacity then the whole will could be challenged.

A person, if they find themselves in difficulty, should contact a Solicitor immediately to obtain legal advice. There are a number of other elements that have to be researched. Of course it is important to make sure the spouse did not enter into any arrangement with the spouse prior to their death that would extinguish their entitlements under law. This situation would ordinarily occur if there had been a legal separation agreement.

With PAUL HEALY

That meeting was a disaster! Relax!

Fancy holding a meeting about starting a new political party less than three weeks before elections! I should never have gone along with your latest crazy idea!

From small oak trees, big acorns grow, my friend!

Actually, it’s ‘From little acorns, mighty oak trees grow’!

Anyways…

ANYWAYS! We should never have held that meeting in the pub! All credibility lost! You’ve been harping on to me about SECRET PLANS FOR A SECRET political party, then you go and throw it open to the floor… in our local!

I’m an instinctive person! You’re an idiot!

(They pause to let the growing tension dissipate)

First off, the Guy with the Big Head tried to take over…

Yeah, just ‘cos he was assistant secretary of a residents committee 15 years ago, he thinks he’s Hans Blix!

(Editor: Oh dear! A Swedish diplomat who was ‘trending’ over 20 years ago; I can’t take much more of this)

It’s been a GOOD week for…

The County Roscommon Ploughing Association, after a successful 30th annual event, held in beautiful sunshine in Ballinaheglish last Sunday

Longford minor footballers, who sensationally won the Leinster Minor Football title, defeating Dublin in the final

Offaly’s Shane Lowry, who equalled the lowest ever round in a major when he shot an amazing 62 en route to a top ten finish in the PGA Championship

Manchester City, who became the first club to win four English Premier League titles in a row

It’s been a BAD week for…

Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, a shock omission from England manager Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

The Guy with the Big Head only came in for a rock shandy, but when he got a whisper about YOUR political party, he tried to take over!

I know, I know…

Then the Pub Bore starts a debate about what’s far right, and what’s far left, and what’s left of centre and what’s right of centre!

WATCHING People

Fancy talking about secret plans for a secret party… in the pub!

Maybe I shared too much… MAYBE? Definitely! Basically the two of us ordered two pints, then out of the blue, you loudly informed all 15 customers that you’re thinking of starting a political party!

I just felt it was time to go… semi-public! Huh! The Man Who Never Buys A Drink asked what the party would stand for… and you gave him a long-winded response!

I just said we would be conservative in nature, but with a liberal outlook, that we would stand up for the individual but would be all about community…

You also said we’d be all about people before profit, but IF we made a profit, that would be welcome!

I was making the point that we need to attract financial donors! And that if we have any profit, er, revenue, left over, we can have a big party… in the pub!

The party that likes to party, you said! I was on my third pint! It was a joke! Are you still in?

ARE YOU SERIOUS?

By the way, speaking of fundraising, as co-leaders of the party, you and I would be entitled to have full access to a barter account. But I guess you’re opting out… Eh… not so hasty! Sometimes it takes brave people to act in the national interest… barter account? Ahem… I’ll think about it!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Roscommon’s Dara Curran celebrates after his goal during last Friday’s Connacht MFC semi- nal against Galway in Tuam Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Michael (107) laid to rest

Roscommon’s oldest man, Michael Coyne, from Fairymount, passed away on Tuesday last at the age of 107.

Michael, who celebrated his 107th birthday in January in Fairymount Church, where he was baptised, was laid to rest this afternoon (Thursday) in Fairymount Cemetery. Predeceased by his parents Philip and Mary, sisters Kathleen Coyne and Mary McGarry and his brother Bernard, Michael is mourned by his nephew and carer Neil McGarry, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.

Roscommon’s oldest man Michael Coyne (RIP), from Fairymount, pictured with his medal from President Michael D Higgins and a pint of Guinness during his 107th birthday celebrations in Hester’s Golden Eagle in Castlerea back in January. Pic: Brian Farrell

Mayo Roscommon Hospice and J Keane & Sons to raffle €30k car

Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, in association with J Keane & Sons Ltd in Roscommon, will raffle a car this September. The Volkswagen Polo Life is worth in the region of €30,000.

Both Mayo Hospice and Roscommon Hospice were developed and paid for by fundraised income (a combined €16.3 million) and are a result of the great support received from the people of Mayo and Roscommon.

a huge difference to our patients, who have lifelimiting illnesses, ensuring we provide the best facilities possible to both them and their families”.

All entries into the draw will go towards funding, supporting and developing palliative care services, both in Mayo and Roscommon Hospices as well as their local communities. Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation provides palliative care services to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families in County Mayo and County Roscommon.

If elected as an MEP, I would work to:

Rescind the EU Green Deal, Nitrates and Habitats directives as well as the Nature Restoration Law.

Tackle Unfair trading practices in the Beef and Sheep sectors.

Increase CAP funding without adding to the cost burden on Irish taxpayers for EU membership by stripping out excessive red tape and unnecessary environmental measures.

Restoring the Single Farm Payment but creating an equitable system by updating the 2000-2002 base year period and abandoning the current policy of Convergence or flattening of farm payments.

Restore Young Farmer Installation Aid scheme at €25,000 because of the demographic crisis in Irish farming.

To introduce a €300/cow suckler cow and €40 ewe payment with minimum red tape because of the crisis in the suckler and sheep sectors.

To oppose damaging global trade deals.

CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, Martina Jennings, said: “Our 2023 car draw was hugely popular, raising a total of over €150,000 for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation. We are so grateful to J Keane & Sons Ltd in Roscommon for partnering with us to give away a beautiful Volkswagen Polo Life.

“All of the funds raised in the draw will make

Tickets are €15 each, four tickets are €50 and ten tickets are €100. Tickets can be bought online now from winacar.hospice.ie, at any of the twelve Mayo Roscommon Hospice shops and also in Mulroy’s Londis, Castlebar. The competition closes in September and the winner will be chosen in a live draw at Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation office in Knock.

Pictured are John Keane (J Keane & Sons Ltd), Mike Smith (Chairperson of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation), and Martina Jennings (CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation).

SATURDAY -SUNDAY

Of Lowry and Offaly…

I’ve always had a soft spot for Offaly. Its towns and villages are familiar to me, going back to our days in the Roscommon Champion, when we were a sister newspaper of the ‘Tribunes’ in Tullamore and Birr. En route to meetings in Offaly, a quick snack in Hiney’s of Ferbane often broke the journey; on other days, the cosy County Arms or the delightful, character-filled ‘Thatch’ were venues for lunch with Offaly’s own eccentric newspaper mogul, the late Arnold Fanning.

Of course for many of us, it was Seamus Darby who put Offaly ‘on the map’. His iconic last-gasp goal in the 1982 All-Ireland football final sensationally won the Sam Maguire Cup for Offaly, even if the headlines were focussed as much on the fact that it denied Mick O’Dwyer’s Kerry the five-in-a-row.

That was a huge blow for the chaps who had confidently produced fivein-a-row ‘souvenirs’ in advance of the final (I suppose a certain amount of their merchandise was sold).

That entrepreneurial setback always reminded me of a scene from Only Fools and Horses, when a stunned Del Boy’s reaction to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison is to lament that he had just bought a huge haul of ‘Free Nelson Mandela’ hats/t-shirts the previous week.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

The Faithful County is a welcoming place, its people like ours, not least because they too are deeply embedded in the GAA. The late Eugene McGee, manager of the Offaly team that won that 1982 final, was my first boss in journalism, a mere six years on from that dramatic day in Croke Park.

These days, Offaly’s particular pride and joy is Shane Lowry. On Saturday, the Clara man produced one of the greatest rounds in the history of world golf, shooting a nine under par 62 in the PGA Championship, therefore matching the best score ever in a Major. On Sunday night, Lowry’s bid to win a second Major came up just short, though he still finished in the top ten. Lowry has star quality, a Midas touch: he might struggle for a few tournaments, but is always capable of ‘catching fire’ on a given weekend. More glory days will come for the affable Offaly Rover.

SUNDAY

The people you meet…

After a lovely Sunday lunch in the ever-relaxing landmark Regan’s Gastro Bar at the Square in Roscommon, we emerged into the welcome sunshine to the embrace of… a host of Fine Gael politicians, aspiring candidates and party handlers. It turned out that Taoiseach Simon Harris, who had addressed a National Famine Commemoration in Edgeworthstown earlier in the day,

was due in town for a quick preelection(s) walkabout.

The Square in Roscommon had seen its share of Taoiseach visits. I recall having to walk at high speed to keep up with Bertie Ahern and an entourage of party admirers as he whizzed around markets outside Regan’s/Gleeson’s in the early 2000s; Enda Kenny wasn’t Taoiseach – he was Taoiseach-in-waiting – when he made his by now somewhat notorious address outside Gleeson’s in 2010, assuring people that Roscommon A&E would be safe under his watch. There must be something about this part of Roscommon Town; it was in Mitchell’s Hotel on the Square (now Regan’s) that Charles Stewart Parnell spent the night prior to his last public address, delivered in Creggs, a week before his death in 1891.

Anyways, back to today. Before you could say ‘It’s not every day the Taoiseach of the day breezes into town’ the Taoiseach of the day had breezed into town. His two-car ‘cavalcade’ approached Regan’s ‘the wrong way’ – turning left past the post office, from the old jail side – (but we’ll give all concerned the benefit of the doubt!).

Out bounded our new Taoiseach, and he couldn’t have been more convivial, posing for photographs and pressing the flesh. It was my first time to meet him, and I must say he was notably friendly and engaging.

Next stop was Gleeson’s, where people were dining outdoors in the

good weather, followed by a walkabout ‘down town’ which included a call to Ryan’s pub in Goff Street.

MONDAY

Clowns to the left…

The Midlands-North-West constituency debate on ‘Upfront with Katie Hannon’ on RTE tonight was so-so. Highlight was Peter Casey’s disappearing act (he returned after a while). Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan later claimed that Casey was annoyed that he (‘Ming’) was getting too much time on air (Katie Hannon had said Casey left due to problems with his mic).

When he returned, an exasperated Saoirse McHugh called Casey a clown. I suppose politics is a circus, of sorts.

Two final points: given his profile and poll rating, Ciaran Mullooly should have been included. As to who did well, I thought ‘Ming’ and Peadar Tóibín were best.

TUESDAY

Where were you?

Today, another one of those moments in history we will never forget, its impact now imprinted forever in our minds.

You know these seismic, hard to define but simply monumental ‘life moments’ that stay with us… The first man on the moon. Famous assassinations. Roy Keane

leaving Saipan. That interval performance of Riverdance at the 1994 Eurovision. The OJ Simpson verdict. Ray Houghton putting the ball in the English net. David O’Leary’s penalty in 1990.

Those unmistakably unique ‘I’ll always remember where I was’ moments. Well today, it happened again.

At first, it seemed like an ordinary email; there was no pre-warning as to its historic significance. I read it with growing shock and alarm, somehow remaining calm, despite the enormity of the message it contained.

Even now, I am looking away as I quote directly from the press statement, for the pain is too great.

‘The Drive It with The 2 Johnnies afternoon show is set to finish at the end of the month, RTÉ 2FM has announced’.

And that was it. The 2 Johnnies, who started their RTE radio show, er, way back in 2022 (not exactly the Gay Byrne Show, is it?), are hanging up their mics. Just like that. It’s over. Cherish the next few days. We may never see or hear their likes again.

As George Hamilton memorably said in the seconds prior to David O’Leary scoring that penalty in the 1990 World Cup, a nation holds its breath…

The Rossies are on a well deserved break: Paraic Newman’s cartoons will return to this page in early June

Farewell to Martin, a true one-off…

Martin Connaughton was a true one-off. I was greatly saddened to hear of his sudden passing earlier this week.

I considered him to be a good friend, but then that’s what made Martin special: a man of great nature, decency and humour, he had the capacity to forge friendships with people from all walks of life, and of all ages too. He loved life, as he loved people.

Many’s an afternoon he appeared in the Roscommon People office, eager to highlight some issue, beginning a conversation that would inevitably lead to a wider discussion on politics and whatever was topical in the community. Our last such chat was in February.

Few people have ever had their finger on the pulse of their community in the way that Martin Connaughton did. He was a brilliant politician, because he understood people and their concerns. He worked tirelessly for the people – and with his combination of common sense, persistence and charm, no Council official, TD or Government Minister could or would lightly disregard whatever case he was making at a given time.

A story that Martin loved to remind me of relates to a chat we had in ‘Down the Hatch’ on the night before the 2004 election. When we met, Martin asked for my prediction as to how the then ‘Mid-Roscommon’ area would go. I told him I fully expected him to retain the seat he had won in 1999.

Martin went further. With a smile on his face, he said: “Can I tell you something, Paul? I’ll come in with about 870 number ones”.

The only reason I raised an eyebrow was because of the preciseness of the prediction.

The next day, Martin Connaughton secured 876 number ones on his way to being reelected.

We had a similar conversation five years later. Once again, Martin accurately predicted (to within a handful of votes), his first preference total.

There was no complacency or arrogance involved. Quite simply, this was a stunning example of a local politician at their peak. For me, it exemplified his remarkable knowledge of the electoral area, its townlands, its households, its people. Martin knew exactly how many votes he had in each house; he had ‘the work done’.

Of course Martin had one particularly great thing going for him; while he was a Fianna Fáil candidate, he could turn presumed Fine Gael (and Independent-minded) voters into Martin Connaughton voters through the sheer force of his personality, charm, and the actual work that he did on the ground. He was an outstanding county councillor. It was in farming circles – and through general community engagement – where he initially built life-lasting bonds of friendship (before the progression into politics).

For a great flavour of Martin Connaughton – family man, farming man, community man, politician, raconteur, and much more besides – I will refer readers to a marvellous tribute, published on page 20 of this issue.

and a man who will be greatly missed. Rest easy, Martin.

Today, Thursday, May 23rd, the people of his community will gather to comfort Martin’s family – and celebrate his life –as he is laid to rest. He was a true one-off, a giant of our community,

The late Martin Connaughton pictured with Roscommon People editor, Paul Healy.

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Murphy calls for enhanced Primary Care services in Ballaghaderreen

In a recent Seanad exchange, Senator Eugene Murphy of Fianna Fáil highlighted the urgent need for a primary care centre in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon.

Speaking in the House, Senator Murphy welcomed the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Colm Burke, and underscored the increasing demand for healthcare services in the area due to a significant population rise.

Senator Murphy noted that Ballaghaderreen has seen a population surge of 40% to 50% over the past seven to eight years. The town, located on the border of Roscommon and Mayo, has become a diverse and vibrant community, welcoming migrants from Syria, Nigeria, Ukraine, and Somalia, alongside its native Irish population. This demographic change has put substantial pressure on the town’s two doctors.

“Their patients are under pressure. We need to up the health service in the

Ballaghaderreen area,” Senator Murphy stated.

He further emphasised the importance of initiating the project promptly, acknowledging existing challenges but urging for decisive action.

“It is very important that we move on boldly on this particular project and that we do whatever we have to do to get that project over the line and get it established in the next few years if we can”.

In response, Deputy Burke conveyed the Government’s commitment to enhancing primary care services through the development of centres nationwide, as part of the Sláintecare initiative.

“Primary care centres provide important primary care infrastructure, providing a single point of access to services for the individual. They also serve as a resource more broadly for the community,” Deputy Burke explained. He mentioned that 174 primary care centres have been opened to date, with ten more under construction.

The primary care centre in Ballaghaderreen is intended to be developed under an operational lease model, which typically offers better value for money and streamlined project delivery. However, Deputy Burke disclosed that the preferred provider for the centre has raised concerns about the project’s viability.

“Unfortunately, the preferred provider of the new primary care centre in Ballaghaderreen has indicated a potential issue regarding the viability of the project,” he said.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) is currently in discussions with the provider to clarify these issues. Should the provider be unable to proceed, the HSE is committed to exploring all options to ensure the project’s delivery.

Deputy Burke reassured Senator Murphy that the Government remains dedicated to establishing the primary care centre in Ballaghaderreen and continuing the development of primary care centres across the country.

Roscommon branch of MS hosting coffee mornings

branch of MS Ireland, the

Sclerosis Society of Ireland, would

anyone in County Roscommon

with MS or caring for someone

MS to join in at one of the following coffee mornings, taking place across the county. On Thursday, June 13th, a coffee morning will be held at Ardcarne Garden Centre in Boyle. On Thursday, July 25th, a coffee morning will take place at The Wooden Spoon in Ballyleague, Lanesborough. On Thursday, September 5th, one will be held at The Peppermill Restaurant on Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Each of the events will run from 10 am to 12 noon. Come along to meet and greet other people, and enjoy a coffee and a chat! For more, contact Teresa on 086 8256845.

Padraig and Kathleen Walsh pictured enjoying the Roscommon Races on Monday evening. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Ruth McCourt and Sandra Hughes pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon recognises National Famine Commemoration Day

Events took place recently in Roscommon in recognition of National Famine Commemoration Day, which occurred last Sunday, May 19th

A ‘Canadian Wake’ was hosted at the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown on Sunday to mark the connection between the National Famine Way and the emigrants who walked it, destined for Canada. The special guest was Ambassador of Ireland to Canada, Eamonn McKee.

Then, on Monday, May 20th, The National Famine Way Commemorative Walk – led by Ambassador

McKee and representatives of the Liverpool Irish Famine Trail – began at Strokestown Park House, where the National Famine Museum is located, with a dramatic re-enactment of the evictions and events of 1847.

The Commemorative Walk takes place over six days – up to this Saturday, May 25th – and journeys through six counties as it follows along the National Famine Way for 165km before reaching the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin’s Docklands.

Caroilin Callery, Ambassador Eamonn McKee, and Jim Callery pictured on Monday at the National Famine Way trailhead at the National Famine Museum in Strokestown Park. Pic: Paul Kelly

Lisa Joy (Roscommon Tourism O cer) and John O’Driscoll (General Manager, National Famine Museum in Strokestown Park) pictured outside the museum before the commemorative walk began on Monday. Pic: Paul Kelly

The walkers, dressed in famine costume, pictured leaving Strokestown Park House during the eviction re-enactment, which took place on Monday to kick o the National Famine Way Commemorative Walk. Caroilin Callery (right) and her cousin Susan Callery (left) are at the front of the picture. Pic: Paul Kelly

students

flag for the Irish language

Students from Castlerea Community School were presented with a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, last week. During the year, the committee carried out a project to put Irish art around the school to enrich the environment both aesthetically and linguistically.

Castlerea Community School joined the Gaelbhratach Scheme in 2023, and this is their first time achieving the flag. The scheme has gone from strength to strength in the school with close to forty members now on the Gaelbhratach committee.

Run by Gael Linn, ‘Gaelbhratach’ is a national initiative that encourages primary and secondary students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting. Students from Roscommon attended the ceremony which marked the

10th year of the scheme in post-primary schools. As part of the ceremony,

67 flags were awarded to post-primary schools from all over Ireland – the high-

est number of recipients in any one year. Flags were awarded in recognition of their efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish.

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Castlerea Community School students Julia Dzwonkowska and Wiktoria Chojnacka (middle) pictured receiving their Gaelbhratach. Also pictured are Síomha Ní Ruairc, Réamonn Ó Ciarán, Caitlín Ní Chonghaile, and Eoin Ó Droighneáin.

Launch of LEADER Programme 2023-2027 for County Roscommon

Roscommon’s LEADER 20232027 funding programme is open to accept ‘Expressions of Interests’. Community groups, private individuals and new or existing businesses are invited to find out more about Roscommon LEADER 23-27 funding and its application process.

A funding webinar will be held on May 23rd from 7 pm to 8 pm, and on May 24th from 1 pm to 2 pm. To register, visit the following links:

t.ly/p0zgM (for May 23rd) or t.ly/ jcxT1 (for May 24th).

Under the programme, funding of €180 million will be provided nationally, with Roscommon successful in securing €5.1 million to support and facilitate the continued development of rural communities all over the county.

LEADER 2023-2027 will be delivered through three main areas – economic development and job creation, rural infrastructure and

social inclusion, and finally, sustainable development and climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Roscommon LEADER Partnership Company staff will also be in attendance to provide information and answer your questions.

LEADER is a funding initiative open to all! From community and voluntary groups to private individuals and small to medium enterprises, LEADER can offer grant aid and support to projects

aiming to promote the quality of life and economic opportunities for Roscommon dwellers within the framework of the approved Local Development Strategy (LEADER Plan).

For more information, please email leader@ridc.ie. Follow-on one-to-one clinics will be held for each Municipal District: Roscommon, Boyle and Athlone. More information on these clinics will be provided at the webinar.

Roscommon LEADER Partnership sta (back row) pictured with (front row) Roscommon LEADER Partnership Chairperson Micheál Frain, Roscommon County Council Chief Executive Shane Tiernan, Roscommon County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr John Keogh, and RLP CEO Martina Earley, at the recent Local Policy Launch event in Lough Key Forest Park.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Braving the ballot

Our columnist Frank on enjoying the weekend’s sunny spell with grandchildren, the dangers faced by politicians on the campaign trail, favourite country music artists at home and abroad, and more!

A couple of weeks ago in this column I wondered why anyone would let their name go forward for election with a view to getting involved in politics. I highlighted the level of abuse, both verbal and physical, that candidates sometimes have to endure as they go around the place canvassing for votes.

Since then, a Green Party councillor named Janet Horner has spoken about how she was

hit by an angry man who threw her posters across the road, threatened to kill her, and lunged at her when she tried to stop him from interfering with her posters.

On the same day, Independent councillor Tania Doyle thought she and her husband would be killed when she was punched about the head, and her husband was beaten, all because of her views on immigration. A Fianna Fáil candidate named Suzzie O’Deniyi,

Tuning into country

I make no secret of the fact that I am a fan of country music, but as much as I like Lisa McHugh, Claudia Buckley, and Cliodna Hagan, I have to disappoint them all by confessing that Carrie Underwood is my favourite female country music artist. She is an exceptional talent; her version of ‘How Great Thou Art’ is something that would make the hair stand on the back of your neck!

There is a tendency to think that American Country is the ‘bee’s knees’ when it comes to quality and all that kind of stuff – and maybe it is in some respects – but for someone like me, who doesn’t know a lot about rhythm or beat, I simply like what I like, regardless of who the artist is or where they come from.

In recent weeks, I have seen concerts on TV by two Irish artists, Mike Denver and Derek Ryan, and both of them absolutely wowed their respective audiences – Denver performing a few years ago in Castlebar (I think), and Ryan more recently in Inverness in Scotland.

Both of them played to capacity crowds, mixing lots of different types of music, from old Irish to modern country. In both instances, it was easy to see the crowd was thoroughly enjoying themselves.

I was in Aughrim, outside Ballinasloe, a couple of years ago, at a concert featuring Nathan Carter, Foster & Allen, Chloe Agnew, and Matt Leavy, and even though we’re not avid concert-goers, Carol and

myself had a great night. We also attended a big night in the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris, when Annette Griffin and John Staunton hosted a major Irish concert with Gerry Guthrie, Brendan Shine, and comedian Frank Forde.

In the meantime, Covid arrived and impacted greatly on a lot of the Irish entertainment industry, but three years or so later, things are getting back to normal. Performers like Michael English, the Three Amigos, and many others are back appearing in concert in different locations all around the country.

Inspired by what Derek and Mike produced in their shows, I sincerely hope to get to some concerts over the summer – watch this space!

who hopes to be the first woman of colour to be elected to Limerick City and County Council, has also been subjected to a vile verbal attack, during which her attacker uttered racist insults and expletives. Now I know these attacks and assaults took place in two of our main cities, and I do not expect that anyone calling door-to-door around our area will be met with such hostility, but sadly we never know – just as none of the election

candidates can really know what kind of reception they will get as they approach any door. Anyway, as June 7th gets closer and closer, as I wrote previously, please show respect for anyone brave enough to put their names forward for election. Even if you disagree entirely with their views, remember our greatest asset is our freedom of speech, so don’t intimidate them with either verbal or physical threats.

Fun in the sun

It’s Friday morning as I write, and for a change we are experiencing some lovely weather. Our daughter Lisa has arrived with her two daughters, threeyear-old Riley and six-month-old Hayley, with the intention of staying for the night before heading back to their new home in Castlebar.

Some years ago, Brendan Shine had a big hit with a song called ‘Grandad’, which basically told of the massive enjoyment and huge sense of love he experienced as a grandfather, and while I may not have fully understood the sentiments then, I most certainly do now.

Three years ago Riley came into our world, with a host of medical problems including hip dysplasia, which left us afraid that she might never walk at all. But after a weekend of running around the garden after her (Lisa changed her mind and stayed in Crosswell, where we live, until Sunday afternoon), and while I know she may still need corrective surgery in the future, I can tell you she is as active and full of energy as any threeyear-old out there!

On top of that, our son Mark and his wife Aoife arrived with their son Daithi, and two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Poppy. I must have clocked up a half-marathon at least while running around with the two girls!

For years now (about 19 or so), we have spent a week or two in Spain around this time of year, where the weather is usually just gorgeous, with temperatures in the early 20s – perfectly suitable for the Irish temperament. But we have always said that when we do get warm weather here, there really is no place like home –and for the last few days that has certainly been proven!

We all, especially the two toddlers and I, have literally had the best fun of all times out in the fresh air, and between planting flowers, playing football, running never-ending relays around the willow tree in the middle

of the garden, and generally having great fun, I have to admit that as I write this on Sunday evening, I am thoroughly exhausted! However, the exhaustion I feel is far outweighed by the great enjoyment we had since Friday.

If we are to get a nice summer weather-wise, I can only imagine how tired I’ll be by the end of it if our grandchildren continue to call! I was thinking of giving the bog a miss this year, but maybe I will cut a bit of turf after all – I could go there for a rest!

And finally…

As bad as it can be for our election candidates here at home, spare a thought for Doug Skaff, a candidate in the election for Secretary of State in West Virginia.

As he was taking down his election posters (all our candidates take note) following the contest, Doug was bitten in both the left leg and the right foot by a copperhead snake and had to be hospitalised for a number of days.

It’s not clear if the snake bit Skaff because he disagreed with him on any political issues, but when asked whether losing the election (he was second in the poll) or getting bitten was worse, Skaff had no hesitation in saying the bite was the worst.

“Elections come and go”, he said, adding that he wouldn’t wish snake bites on anyone.

For all of our local candidates, the advice is that in hot weather, snakes like to rest in bushy areas with access to the sun! So to all budding councillors and European hopefuls out there – keep your eyes open and watch out for any snakes in the grass! There might be a lot more of them lurking out there than you think!

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Sinead and Gerry Osgood. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Robbie Walsh from JTW Distribution pictured presenting trainer Gavin Cronwell with his prize after his horse Total Look won the JTW Distribution Roscommon Maiden of €12,500 at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Windfield NS are Connacht champs!

Wind eld NS, located in Newbridge in County Galway, put on some ne footballing displays during the recent FAI Primary School 5s Connacht nals held in Umbro Park, Castlebar. They defeated teams from Roscommon, Mayo, Leitrim and Sligo and topped the group, which means they are now going to represent Connacht in the Aviva Stadium on May 29th

Crosby secures €25k for playground project

Cllr Tom Crosby this week said that he has secured funding of €25,000 through the Public Realm Boyle MD Fund 2024 for works on the County Council-owned amenity site behind the Buttercups childcare facility at the harbour in Tarmonbarry. The €25,000 will go towards landscaping and extending pathways to the adjacent public car park facing the harbour. Cllr Crosby says he secured the funding to prepare the site with a view to providing a children’s playground there, which he says will be very welcome and of great benefit to the many families living in the fast-growing Tarmonbarry village and surrounding areas.

Má tá tú 80 bliain d’aois nó níos sine, nó má tá córas imdhíonachta lag agat, tá sé in am dod’ theanndáileog earraigh molta.

Labhair le dochtúir teaghlaigh nó cógaiseoir rannpháirteach inniu nó cuir glaoch ar ár bhfoireann HSELive ar 1800 700 700.

Tabhair cuairt ar HSE.ie chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil.

Cllr Crosby is confident of securing funding through the LEADER Programme for the playground equipment, etc. The works on the site will be carried out by Roscommon County Council and are scheduled to commence this September.

If you’re aged 80 years or over, or have a weak immune system, it’s time for your recommended spring booster.

Talk to a participating GP or pharmacist or call our team in HSELive on 1800 700 700. Visit HSE.ie for more information.

HUGE REDUCTIONS ON ALL VEHICLES

RETRO Cannonball is coming to County Roscommon!

Proceeds for Jack and Jill Foundation

On May 24th and 25th, RETRO Cannonball rolls once again –featuring 100 classic cars, free live family entertainment and that unique festival atmosphere that Cannonball is renowned for. This year, the event will have a lunch stop at Kilronan Castle in Co Roscommon, taking place at 1 pm on Saturday, May 25th!

Spectators and families can get up close, see some rare classic cars,

take photographs, meet the drivers and enjoy the timeless allure of vintage automobiles.

The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation is official charity partner for Cannonball Ireland 2024 and currently supports seven children and their families across Co Roscommon.

The organisation funds and provides in-home nursing care and respite support to families caring for children up to the age of six, with neurodevelopmental delay associated with a severe cognitive delay. Another key part of the ser-

vice is end-of-life-care for all children up to the age of six, irrespective of diagnosis. 50 children have been cared for by the charity in Co Roscommon since its inception in 1997.

Classic cars are all about the experience, style, exclusivity and craftsmanship, all of which are universal and timeless.

This year’s RETRO Cannonball starts at Thomond Park in Limerick at 9.30 am on May 24th, and leaves at 10.30 am. It then takes in part of The Wild Atlantic Way with lunch at ‘Fiddle & Bow’ Hotel in

Co Clare. After that it continues along the Wild Atlantic Way with its mesmerizing tapestry of rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs, finally arriving for an overnight stay in the vibrant town of Westport, Co Mayo.

On May 25th, the convoy makes its way across the country for lunch at Kilronan Castle, Co Roscommon, with a quick coffee stop in the renowned Drumcoura City in Leitrim, and then the convoy arrives into Mullingar, Co Westmeath, for the exciting finish!

RETRO Cannonball features 100 classic cars, free family entertainment, and that unique festival atmosphere Cannonball is renowned for – all while raising money for The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Pic: Kasia Farat

Roscommon native to take part in London Rose event

Glenna Mannion, a native of Tulsk, County Roscommon, is set to take part in the upcoming Rose of Tralee London selection event.

Aged 27, Glenna is the daughter of Tommie and Kathleen Mannion and is currently living in Greenford, West London, having moved to the city eight years ago.

Glenna works as a deputy manager and service coordinator for the ‘Action for Children’ charity, working at a residential home for young autistic people with complex needs and challenging behaviours.

Glenna will be taking part in the upcoming London selection for the Rose of Tralee competition, which will take place on May 25th in the Clayton Hotel in Chiswick, London. Best of luck, Glenna!

Increased Cost of Business deadline update!

The deadline for Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant registration has been extended! Local businesses have until Wednesday, May 29th, to register on the ICOB Portal at icob.ie. Businesses are advised to check the portal to see if their business qualifies.

Roscommon Parish Youth Mass

The last Roscommon Parish Youth Mass for this term will be at 7 pm on this Saturday, 25th of May 2024, in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

This Mass has been especially designed for young people, by young people, and everyone is invited to attend. The theme for our Mass is ‘RESILIENCE’, and it has been chosen for all facing exams, or any challenges at this time in one’s life.

A thank you from Roscommon Darkness into Light Committee

The 2024 Roscommon Town Darkness into Light Committee wish to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who registered, donated, and participated by walking, talking, running, or volunteered in our annual Darkness into Light event, held this year on Saturday, May 11th 2024 was the 11th anniversary of the event, and local people came out in hundreds to support this worthy cause.

Everyone’s participation in the early hours of a dry, warm morning and over the course of the weekend to support this worthy cause, clearly demonstrates your enthusiasm for spreading the message of hope.

A special thanks to the Roscommon Fire Brigade, Roscommon Gardai, Roscommon Civil Defence, Denis Smyth of LTB, District Speciality Coffee, Casey’s, Corrib Oil, Aurivo, Molloy’s Bakery, Dunnes Stores Roscommon, Fleming’s SuperValu, Tesco Roscommon, Frances’ Finishing Touches, Ardcarne Garden Centre, staff and students of the Convent of Mercy Secondary School, Ronan Mockler, all our stewards and volunteers, Lisnamult CLG, Bank of Ireland, the Roscommon People, Roscommon Herald, Alex Leskiewicz and Aisling Hanley, Roscommon Signs, Cllr Kathleen Shanagher and Roscommon County Council,

the Solstice Choir, Sean Kelly, Roscommon CBS, Government Offices, Convent Road, Roscommon, Roscommon Volunteer Centre, Liam Finneran, and James McNamara.

An extra-special thanks to all the local businesses who decorated their windows specifically for the event. The variety of displays was extraordinary; this was a tremendous effort by all.

Thanks to everyone who organised successful fundraising events preceding and over the weekend, the proceeds of which go directly to Pieta House to provide 24/7 free counselling and support to those who need it.

Thanks to the hard-working committee for their contributions and dedication in organising this successful event in raising the much-needed funds for Pieta House.

Thanks to all the volunteers who turned up to assist with various tasks and to the busy team inside who assisted with serving beverages and snacks. All the additional help goes a long way. Thank you.

If you are in crisis, you can talk to a therapist now by freephoning 1800247247 or texting HELP to 51444. You can also call 0818 111 126 to make an appointment with a therapist.

The committee looks forward to seeing

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (RSPCA) will be holding its annual Church gate collections at the following churches over the weekend of the 25th and 26th of May 2024.

On Saturday, May 25th, a collection will be held at St Patrick’s Church in Dysart. On Sunday, May 26th, collections will be held at St Michael’s Church in Cootehall, at Our Lady of The Wayside in Clonown, and at the Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Loughglynn. Your support would be greatly appreciated with all donations going directly towards animal welfare in the county. This collection is a great opportunity to raise much-needed funds and raise awareness of the RSPCA’s mission and vision. To learn more about the RSPCA, visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594.

Pictured at the campaign launch of Fianna Fáil local election candidate James Murray (Athlone LEA) in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague recently were (l-r): P. Burke, Bernie Kearney, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Kevin Murray, Cllr John Keogh, James Cooke, former Oireachtas member Michael Finneran, Evelyn Murray, Senator Eugene Murphy, James Murray, Sarah Murray, Barry Cowen TD and John Murphy.

Pictured at the campaign launch of Fianna Fáil local election candidate James Murray (Athlone LEA) in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague recently were (l-r) Sarah Murray, James Murray, Evelyn Murray and Barry Cowen TD.

Pictured at the campaign launch of Fianna Fáil local election candidate James Murray (Athlone LEA) in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague recently were Barry Cowen TD (left) and James Murray (right).

Pictured at the campaign launch of Fianna Fáil local election candidate James Murray (Athlone LEA) in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague recently were (l-r): Teresa Burke, Mary Doolan, Chris Hand, Pádraig Conneely and Patrick Neilan.

Commemorate our Rich Cultural

Commemorate our Rich Cultural Heritage Overcome Loneliness in County Roscommon Maximise the Potential of Tourism Promote Independent Living For The Disabled

Promote

permanent anonymity’

permanent anonymity’

‘When all is said and done, there is usually more said than done’

‘When all is said and done, there is usually more

I am someone who can ‘think outside the box’ and get results. I believe in short on talk, long on action and hard work, works. I am a strong and caring Independent Voice - together we can make this county really wonderful again. For the past 3 years, I have organised The Suck Valley Way National Conference focusing on: 2022 Unlocking Roscommon’s Potential; 2023 Inspiring Rural Creativity; 2024 Addressing

‘We should not leave our forebearers in

Commemorate our Rich Cultural Heritage Overcome Loneliness in County Roscommon Maximise the Potential of Tourism said than done’

I am someone who can ‘think outside the box’ and get results. I believe in short on talk, long on action and hard work, works. I am a strong and caring Independent Voice - together we can make this county really wonderful again. For the past 3 years, I have organised The Suck Valley Way National Conference focusing on: 2022 Unlocking Roscommon’s Potential; 2023 Inspiring Rural Creativity; 2024 Addressing

Voice - together we can make this county really wonderful again. For the past 3 years, I have organised The Suck Valley Way National Conference focusing on: 2022 Unlocking Roscommon’s Potential; 2023 Inspiring Rural Creativity; 2024 Addressing

I am someone who can ‘think outside the box’ and get results. I believe in short on talk, long on action and hard work, works. I am a strong and caring Independent Voice - together we can make this county really wonderful again. For the past 3 years, I have organised The Suck Valley Way National Conference focusing on: 2022 Unlocking Roscommon’s Potential; 2023 Inspiring Rural Creativity; 2024 Addressing

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Co.

Gretchen McDonald and James Horan pictured with their son Ross at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Bobby Finan, Pat McDonnell, Marie Finan and Padraig Ga ey pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Members of the Beirne family pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Donal Hayden with his sons Darragh and Callum pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Anthony Fleming (Ballintubber) with his children Teagan and Jackson pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Members of the Filan family from Castleplunkett pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Sean and Daiva Hoban with their children Olivia, Aurelia and Monika pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mary and John Dowd from Strokestown pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

PPN to host Bi-Annual County Plenary & Community Networking Event in Abbey Hotel

Roscommon Public Participation Network (PPN) will be hosting their Bi-Annual Plenary & Community Networking event on Tuesday evening, May 28th from 7.45-9pm in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town. In addition to traditional plenary formalities there will be an illustrious line-up of speakers including a spotlight discussion on Local Elections- Policy Making & Upcoming Local Authority Committee Formulations.

The theme of this year’s event is “Strengthening Community Connections” with the aim of providing community groups with an opportunity to gain an understanding on the mechanics surrounding local decision making and how communities can become involved to play a central role. Attendees will also learn about new funding available locally and hear the latest activity updates from the PPN team to support community development across the county.

Notable contributions on the night will include a presentation from Roscommon County Council staff on local policy development and community empowerment. In addition, staff from Roscommon LEADER Partnership will announce details of the New €5.1 million LEADER funding available to communities and sports clubs along with a deep dive discussion on community financing options to support groups in accessing funding opportunities.

The event will conclude with an informa-

tive Networking Showcase where attendees will receive an array of information from local supports and agencies including Community Finance Providers.

The event is a great platform to bring community groups together to network, learn and share information. Those in attendance will also be entered into a draw to Win a €500 Training bursary for their group/club/organisation. (T&C’s will apply) Refreshments will be served and all potential new network members are encouraged to attend this FREE Event.

Please note that registration in advance of the event is recommended. You can register for the event online via Eventbrite (https://tinyurl.com/2xxe8p66),via), via email on info@ roscommonppn.ie or by calling PPN Team on 0860478616.

Invitations sought for Historic Graveyard Recording Project

Roscommon County Council, with the support of the Heritage Council, is inviting applications for the 2024 Historic Graveyard Recording Project. One application will be picked at random.

To apply, the graveyard will need a volunteer group of at least four people and one of the four people will need to be computer literate. The project will take place in the selected graveyard on the 13th and 14th of June, from 10 am to 4 pm.

The selected group will learn all about memorial recording including surveying, recording, digital photography, GPS and web-based mapping. Over the two days of training, your team will be shown how to draw a sketch map of the graveyard, num-

ber all the memorials, and photograph them. They will be shown how to read the inscriptions, including the old and ‘hard-to-read’ ones. They will then be shown how to upload the gathered information onto historicgraves.com, where a webpage will be created for the selected graveyard. No experience is necessary and all equipment will be provided.

See historicgraves.com and follow the links for a sample of work done to date in Roscommon. For further information and to apply, phone 090 637136 or email heritage@roscommoncoco.ie. The closing date for applications is Wednesday, June 5th 2024.

Kiltullagh Hill project were selected to take part in the Historic Graveyard Recording Project last year, under the guidance of John Tierney from Eachtra Archaeological Projects Ltd.

Athleague has lost its iconic high king

Martin Connaughton, who died suddenly while herding sheep in Fuerty on May 20th 2024, was an exceptional person who made a major impact on thousands of people over the course of an 80-year life in which every day was lived to the hilt.

The unique Athleague man was a master of all trades. A hugely busy sheep trader, proud father of five children and husband, popular Mayor of Roscommon, committed farmer, polltopping politician, gas man, thoughtful GAA supporter, loving grandfather and masterful card-player.

And there was so much more. Exceptional storyteller. Record-breaking charity fundraiser. Much-loved socialiser. Popular cousin. Enthusiastic racehorse owner. Generous neighbour.

Martin Connaughton was hugely gifted. His understanding of human nature was truly, magnificently, exceptional, as was his gift for forging sincere and lasting friendships. He was immensely resilient, with a massive capacity for hard work and long hours. He had great courage and decisiveness. Like all people who are blessed with high intelligence, he was an excellent, retentive, listener. He had great charm, geniality and a unique command of language. He understood animals, weather and land. And he was a fair man, full of nature. Those gifts set him up for his decades of successes as a deal-maker and problem-solver in the farming, political and community arenas.

Friends of the family often note that Martin’s talents and characteristics live on in his five children. Each, in their own way, bring to the world aspects of their father’s approach. All have his sense of conviction, and are hugely generous and committed to their community and neighbours.

His work in sheep dealing began in his childhood, as eldest son to his father who was a significant buyer of stock in the Roscommon and East Galway area for much of the 20th century. Martin began purchasing stock in his own right at village fairs at the very end of the 1950s, and then was a major buyer of sheep at the livestock marts that emerged throughout the west of Ireland from the 1970s onwards.

Trading in sheep, as with all commodities, requires mathematical ability, knowledge, ability to absorb pressure, financial judgement, and skills in negotiation and decisionmaking. Roscommon, Mountbellew, Tuam, Headford, Ballinasloe and Portumna were frequent places of business for him, selling stock onwards

Then-Roscommon Mayor Martin Connaughton pictured with Tom Harrison from Brideswell (left) and Charlie Finneran of the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum (right) at the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum as part of the Brideswell Pattern Festival Gathering Events back in 2013. Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

Flashback: Cllr Rachel Doherty, Seamus Scally (Vice-Chairperson of the Roscommon Association in Dublin), Mayor Martin Connaughton (RIP) and Mike Lennon (Chairperson of the Roscommon Association in Dublin) pictured at a launch at Roscommon County Library in 2013. Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

to faraway factories, feed lots and exporters. And he purchased sheep privately too, from a massive network of farmers throughout Roscommon, Gal-

way and elsewhere, who trusted him to make fair prices and prompt payment. The enduring nature of those relationships with farmers – repeat deals

year after year for decades – speaks volumes about his reliability and fairness. Farmers liked and trusted Martin Connaughton; Martin liked and

trusted the farmers just the same. Martin Connaughton was a major success in politics. He entered that life in his mid-50s. He had several factors in his favour: the enthusiastic support of local members of the Fianna Fáil party; a very large family connection; and he was very well known. Yet it was a congested political scene: his competitors included several high profile and well-established political figures. Martin was elected in his first contest, attributing his success to support received from farmers throughout the district. He topped the poll comfortably in subsequent elections that he contested – always increasing his vote. On the local political scene, Martin Connaughton’s workrate, colourfulness and achievements set the agenda, tone and bar. He was a significant powerbroker in Roscommon and Fianna Fáil politics during his 15 years in the arena. He deserved his reputation for hard work and delivery. Martin put his energy and talents into everything positive that happened in his locality in his lifetime. Sport, community, education, business and charity were constant features. Today his children do what their father did – in the GAA clubs, community groups and schools. His grandchildren are exceptional at Gaelic games, custodians of a family tradition that he emphasised.

‘Die with your boots on’ is a cowboy idiom that originates from frontier towns in 19th century America, a country in which Martin Connaughton represented County Roscommon as our Mayor, and where he liked to visit to spend time with cousins and old friends. On Monday 20th of May, he sat into his car outside his Athleague home, crossed the River Suck twice and continued on through Fuerty to Lissaneaville where he has farmed faithfully for so many years. The sloping ground on the Connaughton holding there is high upland, and from it there is visibility of farms, hills and villages where Martin Connaughton had dealings with hundreds of people through his decades. On that May afternoon, in fresh air and blazing sunshine, and in the comforting presence of his son and daughter-in-law, he died suddenly while attending to a bleating young lamb. Martin Connaughton died as he lived, with his wellingtons on.

The Connaughton family has lost a beloved father and grandfather. Athleague has lost its iconic high king. May Martin Connaughton, reunited with his wife Josie, rest in peace. Tribute from an admiring neighbour and friend

Community mourns popular former councillor and Mayor

One of the best-known community figures in the region over many decades is being mourned this week.

There has been widespread sadness at news of the passing of Martin Connaughton, the former Fianna Fáil councillor and ex-Mayor of the county, who died suddenly on his farm in Athleague on Monday.

A hugely popular figure across political, farming and wider community and social

circles, his passing has led to warm tributes on social media.

The late Martin Connaughton, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday, died suddenly but peacefully on his beloved farm on Monday. First elected to Roscommon County Council in 1999, he was re-elected in 2004 and again in 2009.

A former Mayor (Cathaoirleach) of Roscommon, he was a charismatic individual

who had a wonderful zest for meeting people in all walks of life.

Martin Connaughton, who in latter years left Fianna Fáil and adopted an Independent approach, was succeeded in local politics by his son, well-known auctioneer Ivan Connaughton, who also served on Roscommon County Council.

In a short tribute posted on Facebook on Tuesday, Ivan said that his father

“loved people and people loved him”, adding that “his political slogan at election time was always ‘People before Politics’. He kept to his word”.

Predeceased by his loving wife, Josephine (née Fannon) and his parents Thomas and Delia, the late Martin Connaughton is mourned by his daughter Aoife; sons Paul, Neil, Mervyn and Ivan; brothers Tom, Noel and Clement; sisters Olive,

Frances and Patricia; grandchildren, extended family, neighbours and a very large circle of loyal friends. His remains reposed at Hamrock’s Funeral Home, Athleague on Wednesday, where huge crowds of mourners paid their respects. Funeral Mass on Thursday, May 23rd in St Patrick’s Church, Athleague, was followed by burial in Athleague Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

Former county councillor and exMayor of County Roscommon, Martin Connaughton, who sadly died on his farm in Athleague on Monday.

The late Martin Connaughton celebrates being elected as to Roscommon County Council back in 2009 with his son Ivan, his brother Tom and Cllr John Cummins. Pic: Andrew Fox

The late Martin Connaughton with Henrietta the pig pictured at the opening night of Athleague Fair and Festival in 2013. Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

Peaceful protest proceeds in Castlerea despite calls for its suspension

Last Sunday, approximately 100 people turned out for what was a peaceful protest in Castlerea. This was despite calls from the protest organisers – Community Stands Against Misinformation and Advocates for Responsible Government Action Castlerea – for the protest to be suspended.

The latter group, who say they are welcoming toward the applicants for international asylum, subject to proper resourcing, claim that potential attempts by “bad faith actors” to stir up division was the motivation behind their decision to “suspend” a demonstration they had originally scheduled.

Recent developments surrounding the refurbishment of a building in Riverside apartments for the purpose of accommodating international protection applicants have caused confusion and concern among residents of Castlerea and surrounding areas.

Since news of the development broke last week, there have been numerous claims of the spreading of misinformation, particularly on social media. There

are claims too that a separate group has attempted to infiltrate what are intended to be peaceful and respectful demonstrations.

According to the group of concerned residents: “Castlerea needs additional

infrastructure to accommodate a large group of new residents, regardless of their background. Without adequate housing, services, education, and healthcare facilities, the town’s resources are already stretched thin”.

Despite calls for the planned protest scheduled for Sunday, May 19th, to be suspended, a demonstration did go ahead. The original organisers said: “We, the local people of Castlerea, refuse to witness a repetition of the unrest experienced in other parts of our country. Our community rejects any attempts to cause fear and unrest, and we refuse to allow any individuals with an alternative agenda to infiltrate our peaceful demonstration”.

As Castlerea navigates these challenging circumstances, the community’s call for adequate support and infrastructure remains unwavering: “Instead, we entrust our local politicians with the responsibility of conveying our concerns to the government. We implore them to seek factual evidence and advocate for responsible decision-making on behalf of the Castlerea community. We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate these challenging circumstances”.

Celebrate National Biodiversity Week in Kilteevan

An event aimed at celebrating National Biodiversity Week in Kilteevan has been organised to take place at 10 am on Saturday, May 25th.

This event will follow the Cloonlarge Loop Trail in Kilteevan, which is a gentle 5km loop walk bordering the boglands. Walkers should be back at the Community Centre by 1 pm. Those interested in participating should please note the length of the walk – it is not suitable for very young children.

During the walk you will learn how to record what you see and join Ireland’s Citizen Science community. Some members of Kilteevan Tidy Towns will share their experience of the benefits and fulfilment of Citizen Science. Places are limited so booking is essential via kilteevantidytowns@gmail.com.

A checklist will be issued upon booking, and a bus will transport you between Kilteevan Community Centre and the walk. This event is free and is kindly supported by the Roscommon County Council Heritage Office and National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Seminar on care and conservation of historic graveyards

Members of the public are warmly invited to a seminar on the care and conservation of historic graveyards, taking place from 1 pm to 5 pm on Friday, May 24th, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon.

This event is for groups or individuals with an interest in caring for or managing a cemetery or graveyard.

“This seminar will provide practical, appropriate and easy to understand advice and guidance on how to care for historic graveyards and allow for discussion and sharing of experience”, said Nollaig Feeney Heritage Officer, Roscommon County Council.

The event is free but booking is required on eventbrite.ie. If you cannot book tickets through the Eventbrite page, please book by contacting the Heritage Office via email at heritage@ roscommoncoco.ie or phone on 090 6637136.

This evening is hosted by Roscommon County Council Heritage Office in association with County Roscommon Graveyards Committee and funded by The Heritage Council as an action of County Roscommon Heritage Plan.

Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy

A Special Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, on Friday, May 24th, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr Oisín Martin CFR (Friars of the Renewal, Limerick).

Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome. The eircode is N37W704.

Acies

Ceremony in Sacred Heart Church

The Acies Ceremony will take place on Sunday, 26th of May at 4 pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town. Refreshments afterwards in the Abbey Hotel. All welcome.

A group of concerned members of the Castlerea community gathered last Sunday to take part in a peaceful protest in Castlerea to express their concern over the potential use of the Riverwalk Apartment Complex in the town as accommodation for refugees. Pic: Kieran Croghan

A group of people who took part in a peaceful protest in Castlerea last Sunday to express their concern over the potential use of the Riverwalk Apartment Complex in the town as accommodation for refugees. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Irish Freedom Party election candidate Justin Slamen (right) pictured with some of the people who gathered last Sunday to take part in a peaceful protest in Castlerea to express their concern over the potential use of the Riverwalk Apartment Complex in the town as accommodation for refugees. Pic: Kieran Croghan

A group of concerned members of the Castlerea community gathered last Sunday to take part in a peaceful protest in Castlerea to express their concern over the potential use of the Riverwalk Apartment Complex in the town as accommodation for refugees. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Casey criticises RTE’s ‘shambolic’ European election debate

Midlands-North-West European election candidate Peter Casey (Independent) has criticised Monday night’s political debate on RTE’s Upfront with Katie Hannon show, describing it as a “heated and chaotic discussion that failed to properly address the most pressing issues facing rural Ireland today”.

Casey, a former Dragons’ Den panellist on TV, expressed disappointment in independent candidate Saoirse McHugh for what he termed “childish behaviour”, presumably referring to her calling him a “clown” on live TV. He also criticised MEP Luke Flanagan, accusing

him of being “obnoxious and insulting, constantly interrupting and talking over everyone”. Casey also claimed that Katie Hannon “lost control of the debate”. Casey was conspicuously missing from the panel for an extended portion of the latter half of the debate.

Regarding the debate itself, Casey said: “The show was a failure and a waste of time because it did not focus on the two most pressing issues concerning the people in Midlands-North-West: job creation in rural Ireland and the immigration crisis”.

In a wide-ranging

press release, Casey criticised RTE for having eight candidates on the show and attempting to discuss “almost half a dozen topics, giving each candidate only six minutes”. He argued that under such conditions, it is impossible to have a meaningful debate: “The show should have focused on the immediate concerns closer to home and not the genocide in the Middle East.

“While it is a tragedy, the people in rural Ireland are not directly impacted by the bloodshed in Palestine – as terrible and tragic as it is, it does not keep them awake at night,” Casey

‘Pedestrian

crossing needed in Athleague village’ – Murray

Fáil local election candidate for the Athlone LEA James Murray is calling for a pedestrian crossing in the centre of Athleague village due to the continuing increase of traffic there over the last number of years.

Mr Murray said: “A pedestrian crossing in the village would be of huge benefit to pedestrians and also act as a measure to slow down traffic, which is a major problem.

“Situated on the main Roscommon to Galway N63 road, Athleague has benefited from a full makeover in 2019 with new footpaths, lighting, additional parking and services installed. It is a booming village economically with many successful businesses and this brings additional traffic.

“I am vice-chairperson of the recently renovated community centre and we see a large increase in events and bookings for meetings, including the weekly Bingo. The community would be a safer place with a pedestrian crossing.

“I understand it will require the approval of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and if elected, I will be immediately calling on Roscommon County Council to

remarked. “What keeps them awake at night is the thought that there won’t be a job in their own community for their child when they graduate from school and university”. Casey argued that while one or two important issues like soil erosion were mentioned, overall, the debate was a sideshow with some candidates wasting time on “one-upmanship”. Citing job creation in rural Ireland as the number one topic facing the region, he also highlighted what he claimed has been his success in attracting large multinationals to Ireland and pledged to continue this work if elected.

Roscommon People keeping you up to date with Elections 2024…

You can now stay up to date with all the latest news, views and campaign updates from this year’s local and European election trail with our new dedicated ‘Elections 2024’ section of our website.

Simply log on to www.roscommonpeople.ie and click the ‘Elections 2024’ icon on the top right-hand side of our homepage.

Walsh welcomes €6.89m to tackle

‘Assessment of Needs’ waiting lists

Fine Gael MEP, Maria Walsh, has welcomed additional funding aimed at addressing the backlog for families of children with disabilities awaiting Assessment of Needs (AONs). Walsh, representing Midlands-North-West, emphasised the importance of this funding in supporting community healthcare organisations.

MEP Walsh said: “This funding boost is great news for the Midlands-North-West. With rising numbers of families requiring AONs around the country, it’s crucial we do everything possible to provide assessments”.

West or elsewhere should have to wait excessively long periods of time for the needs of their child to be assessed. The quicker the assessment takes place, the sooner the family can access the right services. This new funding will prioritise the families who have been waiting longest,” Walsh promised. She also confirmed that parents would not be expected to pay any initial costs, as the HSE will reimburse these private clinics directly.

commence negotiations with TII for the new crossing.

“It was not long ago that the TII wanted to bring the 100km speed limit in closer to the village – at Centra – but they reversed their decision after local public disapproval.

“I also pledge to work on fasttracking the much-needed extension of the footpath and new lighting at Athleague cemetery and the upgrading of the footpath at the national school, which is in poor condition and covered over by trees – thereby hazardous with leaves and debris during the winter period” concluded Mr Murray.

Walsh highlighted that the €6.89 million in funding will facilitate 2,500 private assessments nationwide over the next six months, commencing in the coming days. This funding is in addition to the existing HSE core funding of €5 million, which aims to complete 1,800 AONs in 2024.

“No family in Midlands-North-

A National Party candidate in the upcoming European elections, James Reynolds, has slammed what he has branded unfair trading practices within the EU’s agricultural sector, particularly targeting the manipulation of farm product prices by the meat processing industry and retail supermarket chains.

Reynolds claims that these practices have led to a rigged market for beef in Ireland, with one business holding an effective monopoly on rendering (offal disposal) and the “big three processors” effectively controlling the Irish beef processing market.

Reynolds says: “If elected as an MEP, I will work to achieve a significant ‘beefing up’ of the

“The Special Committee on Children, Education and Disability, which was recently set up and where the decision was made to proceed with this initiative, is looking at many ways to further improve disability services, such as recruiting more specialists to contribute towards nationwide Children’s Disability Network Teams to provide important therapies to children,” Walsh explained.

existing EU Unfair Trading Practices legislation by means of a two-pronged approach”. Reynolds’ first proposal involves the establishment of an EU Food & Drinks Market Regulator’s Office. He suggests that this office would be equipped with sufficient enforcement powers to impose hefty sanctions and penalties on those found to be in breach of EU Competition law. He believes that this body would play a crucial role in protecting primary beef producers and ensuring fair trading practices across various food markets, including the wine sector.

The second aspect of Reynolds’ plan calls for nationallevel action. He advocates for

the enactment of fair pricing legislation by the Oireachtas, modelled on existing Minimum Wage legislation.

Reynolds proposes that this legislation would guarantee farmers, as primary producers, a fair share of the retail price of food, ensuring they earn a margin above the cost of production. He stresses that this measure is essential to protect farmers and horticultural growers from the detrimental effects of supermarkets using food products as loss leaders.

Reynolds highlights the importance of this additional element of national pricing legislation to provide farmers with protection from practices that undermine

the prices paid to growers for vegetables and potatoes, often below the cost of production.

Fine Gael MEP, Maria Walsh

Fianna

Fianna Fáil local election candidate for the Athlone LEA James Murray

Voice of the People ELECTIONS 2024

Mullooly on leaked Housing Report:

‘We can’t afford not to invest in housing’

In light of the recent bombshell report from the Government-appointed Housing Commission, Ciaran Mullooly, MEP candidate for Midlands-North-West, has condemned the Government’s “failure” to address Ireland’s housing crisis and pledged to seek solutions to the systemic issues facing the country in the European institutions, if elected.

The Housing Commission’s report lays bare the chronic issues plaguing Ireland’s housing sector.

The Commission’s findings include a call for a radical “strategic reset” of housing policy, citing ineffective decision-making and reactive policies and a severe housing deficit, estimated between 212,500 and 256,000 homes as of the 2022 Census, contributing to larger household sizes, lack of affordable housing, and increasing homelessness.

Crosby calls

for

vapes to be included in smoking legislation

The Irish Government has approved legislation that will increase the age at which tobacco can be sold from 18 to 21, a move welcomed by Roscommon county councillor Tom Crosby.

In a recent statement, Cllr Crosby said he was proud that Ireland has become the first country in the EU to increase the age, and he hopes the passing of the Bill will help curb the

smoking habit and dissuade young people from taking it up.

“The passing of this Bill is aimed at reducing the number of people who smoke in Ireland, and ultimately make it harder for young people to access tobacco products,” said Cllr Crosby.

“Figures obtained from the HSE reveal that the number of smokers in Ireland has reduced from 27%

in 2004 to 18% in 2023”, he continued. “Though this may be viewed as an extreme measure, it is required to tackle the growing number of people taking up the habit, as we all know of the serious health consequences of doing so.

“In fact, I would go further and call on the legislation to increase the age at which vapes and inhaling products can be purchased – they have become ex-

Ciaran Mullooly emphasises that the Housing Commission’s report underscores “yet another failure of government policy”. He asserts that immediate and decisive action is necessary to mitigate the crisis:

“The Housing Commission’s report is a damning indictment of the Government’s persistent failure to address Ireland’s housing crisis.

“The severity of the housing deficit, coupled with one of the highest levels of public expenditure for housing in Europe yielding some of the poorest outcomes, is unacceptable.

“If elected to the European Parliament, I will leave no stone unturned in advocating for securing strategic funding to front-load the costs associated with supplying more social and affordable housing now, not in the distant future.

“While great emphasis is placed on the need to

increase social housing stock, we need to also be conscious of the fact that ‘generation rent’ is a generation of middleincome earners trapped between qualifying for social housing and being able to afford to buy a house. Therefore, I will be searching high up and low down in Europe for all and any funding that may be available to enable the state to frontload investment in housing now”.

Accessing EU funding

Mullooly says he plans to leverage his position in the European Parliament to access critical EU funding to address the systemic issues in Ire- land’s housing sector. Specific funds that could be pursued include the European Social Fund Plus“This(ESF+). fund supports social inclusion and helps address housing affordability issues across the EU. I don’t think Ireland has taken full advan- tage of this funding for this purpose.

“Also, the Affordable Housing Initiative under the Single Market Programme (SMP-COSME). This initiative aims to support the construction and renovation of affordable housing using in- novative approaches and multi-stakeholder partnerships. Again, we need to be absolutely certain Ireland is leveraging all these funding streams, not tomorrow – but today!”

Brennan pledges to address road safety concerns in Lisnamult

Fianna Fáil election candidate Larry Brennan has pledged to address road safety concerns in the Lisnamult area if he is elected to Roscommon County Council next month.

Mr Brennan has this week highlighted residents’ concerns over traffic density and instances of speeding in the Lisnamult area of Roscommon Town.

Speaking following a recent meeting with Lisnamult residents, Mr Brennan said that the area is experiencing increased volumes of traffic as a result of the ongoing development and popularity of a range of sporting facilities in the area.

tremely popular with teenagers and we do not know enough about them yet and the risks they might pose to our health.

“In addition to this, used vapes are being recklessly discarded around our countryside and have become an eyesore in my opinion, so anything that would go some way to solving this issue would be welcomed further,” concluded Cllr Crosby.

“These are really excellent sporting facilities” the candidate said, referencing the Roscommon Gaels’ grounds and the Community Sports Park.

“However, residents have expressed concerns about the traffic density in the area and some instances of speeding.

“The concerns of residents are all to do with the safety of pedestrians and motorists. If elected to Roscommon County Council, I will urgently work to address their concerns.

“Indeed the possibility of a relief road… to access the sporting facilities… could perhaps be considered. It is important that the views of the residents of Lisnamult are taken on board and acted upon”.

In a press statement, Mr Brennan added that another big issue highlighted on his election canvass is the need for a footpath and lighting between Hannon’s Hotel and Roscommon Golf Club.

“This still hasn’t been addressed” he said, adding that the popular walking route is currently “dangerous” and that this project needs urgent attention. He pledged to work towards that end if elected to Roscommon County Council. Mr Brennan also pledged to lobby on behalf of residents of Ballinagard Road, where he said road surface conditions are inadequate.

“New footpaths need to be provided and I am committed to pursuing this with urgency”.

Fianna Fáil election candidate Larry Brennan

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott (Roscommon Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Elections Returning Officer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r) Johnny Crehan, Bernie Kearney, Director of Elections; Raymond Connor, Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil and John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Ciaran Mullooly, MEP candidate for Midlands-North-West.

Chambers and Cowen in ‘lead candidate’ spat

Senator Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-North-West, has expressed her strong disapproval of recent comments made by her running mate, Deputy Barry Cowen. Deputy Cowen had alluded to being the “lead candidate” for the party in the constituency, a claim Chambers says she finds both misplaced and dismissive.

“Barry Cowen’s comments about being the ‘lead candidate’ were, in my view, unfounded,” said Senator Chambers. She described the comments as “disappointing and dismissive,” and highlighted that all three Fianna Fáil candidates in the constituency are campaigning equally under the same party flag.

Chambers emphasised, “We are under the same flag, campaigning absolutely in parallel, and I am really happy with the response I’m getting within that”.

Momentum

Senator Chambers noted the positive reception she has been receiving from voters, focusing on issues such as fairer distribution of immigration, the economic and social impact on rural Ireland, and reducing European red tape.

In contrast to Cowen’s remarks, she highlighted her ongoing engagement with constituents and her satisfaction with the campaign’s

progress. “I can assure everyone that I am very happy with how this campaign is going and I’m really looking forward to the next three weeks of canvassing,” Chambers added.

‘Shovel will hit the ground next year’

McDermott on local projects

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott says “the shovel will hit the ground” next year to definitively kick-start a major road safety project in Roscommon Town.

Cllr McDermott said that the main talking point on his canvass of large parts of Roscommon Town has been the public demand for provision of a footpath (and lighting) along the entire stretch of road from Golf Links Road to Hannon’s Hotel.

“This has been the biggest issue raised by residents locally and I want to move this week to reassure the public that funding has been approved for these works” Cllr McDermott said in a press statement.

The local councillor said that a Part 8 proposal was unanimously brought by all six councillors in Roscommon Municipal District so as to ensure that funding would be provided for this project under the Active Travel programme.

Cllr McDermott said that the funding has been approved and he is confident that construction works will commence in 2025. “The shovel will hit the ground next year” he commented.

The issue in question relates to a popular walking route from Golf Links Road to Hannon’s Hotel. Cllr McDermott says local residents have major concerns on the safety front.

“This road is lethal to walk on, particularly at dusk” he said, stressing the urgent need for the proposed footpath and lighting.

“It’s a fantastic amenity which is used by so many people, including my own family, but it is not safe… since first running for the Council in 2019 I have made this issue a priority and have raised it, with the support of colleagues, at County Council meetings and at Municipal District meetings. I believe it will be progressed next year. I also believe we should connect the new footpath with a footpath all the way from the hospital, creating a full loop that will benefit the entire community”.

In his press statement, Cllr McDermott also revealed that the next phase of roadworks at Ardsallagh Woods will proceed later this year.

“These works involve replacement of kerbs, resurfacing and repairing footpaths and providing new footpaths. 50% of this project – phases one and two – has been completed. The next phase will start later this year and the works will be completed over the next year and a half.

“This is a major project, and when completed it will link Ardsallagh Woods with the new road leading to Hannon’s Hotel, and will be a fantastic asset to the town. I want to thank residents for their courtesy and patience and am delighted to be in a position to provide these positive updates. Residents can be assured that I will see these projects over the line”.

Martin’s intervention

Tánaiste and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin intervened, according to Senator Chambers.

“Tánaiste Micheál Martin’s recognition that there is no single lead candidate in the Midlands-North-West constituency validates my comments and reflects the strength of our team”.

Senator Chambers said she remains committed to working collaboratively with her fellow candidates, Deputy Cowen and Niall Blaney.

Background

The debate over the lead candidacy comes amidst a competitive election climate. Fianna Fáil has not secured a seat in the MidlandsNorth-West constituency for a decade, and recent polls indicate that the party needs to manage its three-candidate vote-sharing strategy meticulously to succeed.

The question of the appropriateness of his comments was put to Deputy Cowen on Monday night’s UpFront with Katie Hannon as she hosted a panel of 8 out of 27 candidates. Deputy Cowen’s response to the host would lead viewers to believe he was not backing down from his comments as he reiterated the importance of vote management for the party.

More playgrounds needed – Scahill

Increased funding is needed to deliver more playgrounds that will benefit communities in our county, Fine Gael Roscommon Municipal District candidate Gareth Scahill has said.

Mr Scahill is calling for more funding from Government to help Roscommon County Council meet the cost of large-scale new playground projects and also to expand and upgrade existing playgrounds.

He said: “I know how important these spaces are in terms of physical and mental well-being for the whole family”.

He added that the Department of Rural and Community Development provides significant funding towards the establishment and improvement of playgrounds, but that this is generally contingent on Roscommon County Council matching funding of at least 25% of the amount provided by the Department.

Noting that construction and material costs are rising, the Fine Gael candidate said this is why more funding is required from Government.

“Concerns have been expressed regarding equipment in some public playgrounds falling into disrepair and upgrading or replacing these pieces can be challenging and some councils can find it difficult getting projects off the ground. This is why a boost in funding and a change to the criteria for the Play and Recreation Scheme would be ideal”.

Waters wants ‘freedom from woke tyranny’

Castlerea native John Waters, a former columnist for the Irish Times, recently announced his intention to contest the forthcoming European Parliamentary elections, aiming to represent the Midlands-North-West constituency.

His campaign is primarily focused on the issues of national sovereignty and the impact of EU policies on Ireland.

Waters has expressed concern about certain EU policies which he believes negatively affect sectors such as agriculture, energy, and national sovereignty at large. He argues that these policies are “detrimental” to Ireland’s independence and economic well-being.

“In 2024, we must strive to regain our freedoms; ‘freedom of thought, bodily autonomy, and privacy. Freedom from woke tyranny. Freedom to farm our land, to cut turf, to use cash, and

to be different. These are the essentials for preserving our national identity and autonomy,” Waters stated as he announced his candidacy for the European Parliament.

In his press statement he also mentioned a strong desire to confront what he perceives as over-politicised and coercive

measures, emphasising that his campaign would focus on “opposing the growing totalitarian direction of the EU and seeking its reversion to a community of nations seeking cooperation through trade”.

With a distinguished background in journalism, Waters is noted for his critical approach to conventional political narratives. He stresses the importance of aligning EU policies with the interests and preferences of the Irish people. He aims to represent both rural and urban communities in the constituency, ensuring their concerns are addressed within the European Parliament.

Waters says his campaign will concentrate on EU governance, border policies, and promoting family and community values, with the goal of safeguarding and advancing Irish interests at a European level.

Senator Lisa Chambers Deputy Barry Cowen

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott

Castlerea native John Waters

Gareth Scahill

GRETB to hold Roscommon Open Day on Tuesday

GRETB will hold an Open Day in Roscommon town next Tuesday, May 28th, from 11 am to 3 pm.

GRETB, the Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board, is a further education provider offering a wide variety of services and courses at different locations across the two counties. In Roscommon town, the GRETB centre is located on Lanesboro Street (F42 NA72).

On Tuesday, GRETB in Roscommon town will be hosting its Open Day for prospective students at its Landsboro Street centre. There will be a sign language interpreter present on the day, between 11 am and 2 pm.

Representatives from the social welfare department will also be present on the day.

“We want to make sure people are aware that learners on a social welfare payment, especially for full-time courses, can still continue receiving their payment if they enrol”, explained Orla Connaughton, centre manager.

“People can also find out if they’re eligible for payment before they start a course, or just to know their options in general”, she continued.

GRETB offers a variety of services like guidance counselling and community education, not to mention the wide range of educational courses they deliver on both a part- and full-time basis, with many of these courses awarding QQI certification. Full-time courses are all provided for free under GRETB, while part-time courses (run with BTEI) are eligible as free for some learners.

The subject areas for these courses range from pre-nursing and healthcare to childcare and special needs assisting, business administration and ICT skills to environmental awareness and digital marketing. The full range of courses available, and the details of the contents of each of these courses, can be found on fetchcourses.ie.

The upcoming Open Day will provide attendees with a chance to chat to teachers about their respective courses, find out the different options available to them in terms of support, and get a chance to view the centre itself.

For more information on GRETB, visit gretb.ie or find the centre on social media.

Words: Alannah Ita Healy Photos: Kieran Croghan

Dr Mikey Monaghan, teacher with GRETB (Level 5 pre-nursing and healthcare systems), pictured with the centre’s newlyacquired training hoist. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Anne Mannion Learning Support and Inclusion Service

Anne Mannion works at GRETB as part of the centre’s Learning Support and Inclusion Service. This service aims to help all learners receive the necessary support to fully engage in and bene t from the educational opportunities available to them while participating in their course.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Anne explained that this includes “everything from learner supports and counselling services to assistance funds and laptop loan schemes”.

General wellbeing is another important focus for the service: “We want to make sure we have a safe, calm, comfortable environment for all students”, she highlighted.

Anne also commented that one of the service’s core goals is “removing barriers”.

“This is why we have adopted a UDL approach” in addition to “reasonable accommodations for those with a learning disability, autism, ADHD, etc”. For more information, visit gretb.ie/ furthereducationtraining/learnersupport, or email learnersupport@gretb.ie.

Dr Mikey Monaghan Teacher (pre-nursing and healthcare systems)

Dr Mikey Monaghan works as a teacher at GRETB, delivering the Level 5 healthcare system course and the new Level 5 prenursing course.

Mikey explained that the popular healthcare system course has been delivered at GRETB for some time now, but the pre-nursing course is brand new, beginning in September: “the partand full-time healthcare support courses are coming together to form this new course, which is an initiative with BTEI”.

According to Mikey, this course will function as a “link between second and third level”: “As a further education provider, we’re the bridge between the two, setting up learners to enter the workforce or progress further into education.

“On the academic end of it, I’ll be teaching students about anatomy, biology, delivering the pre-nursing module itself, etc – getting them ready” before the practical side is delivered.

Mikey commented that the practical aspect of the course is a particular advantage for students: “We have a great training room here (at GRETB)”, complete with a “hoist and lots of specialised pre-nursing equipment”, he explained, “so you can get a lot of important hands-on training before you even leave the centre”.

The course also provides valuable practical experience through placement: “Learners locally can go to the hospital, local nursing homes, the local care organisations – they have a full year of work experience done before they graduate”.

For more information on GRETB’s courses, visit fetchcourse.ie or their website/social media.

Bernadette Smith Regional Literacy Coordinator

Bernadette Smith works with GRETB as a Regional Literacy Coordinator, covering the Galway and Roscommon area.

Bernadette explains that her work “involves working with organisations to make sure people can understand their needs, and where they can go to meet them”.

She added: “I work within the GRETB who have a range of courses available for people who want to reengage in learning at all levels. In GRETB, people can get help with reading, writing, maths, and computer skills. The GRETB empowers people and communities to make a real di erence in their lives.

“I also work with organisations to make sure their communication methods are clear and accessible, using plain English guidelines”.

For more information, visit gretb.ie, or contact Bernadette via email at bernadette.smith@gretb.ie.

Stephanie O’Connor Shaw

BTEI coordinator (part-time courses)

Stephanie O’Connor Shaw works with GRETB as a BTEI coordinator for the centre’s part-time courses, also working in other centres across the country.

BTEI (the Back to Education Initiative) o ers part-time education programmes nationally for young people and adults, with the aim of enabling participants to return to learning, all while managing work, family, and other responsibilities. At GRETB, a range of Level 5 and Level 6 courses are o ered, from healthcare support and early years childcare to digital marketing and environmental awareness, etc.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Stephanie explained: “For our learners, it really is about nding that balance between work life, personal life, family life, and then upskilling, changing career, etc.

“Full-time doesn’t suit everyone – some people may have children in school, others may be continuing to work, so it’s just not realistic for everyone”.

In addition to QQI certi cation, Stephanie highlighted that among the bene ts to BTEI’s parttime courses at GRETB is that they can function as a great “stepping stone” for learners, allowing them to “get used to studying again” and/or “upskill” further before re-entering the workforce or continuing in further/higher education.

“Another thing which makes the courses so accessible”, she explained, “is that oftentimes, courses are provided free of charge!”

More information on the full range of courses available can be found on fetchcourses.ie. More information about the BTEI initiative can be found

Seamus Keane works at GRETB as an Apprenticeship Training Advisor for the Roscommon/North Galway area.

In total, there are currently four Apprenticeship Training Advisors (SOLAS Authorised O cers) working within the Galway and Roscommon region as part of GRETB, looking after all apprenticeship matters.

“One of our main functions is to liaise with apprenticeship employers regarding formally conducting the SOLAS approval process with those who apply to train apprentices. Following on from that there is apprentice registration, monitoring of all employers who have apprentices and certi cation of apprentices. All employer and apprentice related queries/issues are dealt with as they arise.

“As part of our role, we promote apprenticeship within the region through visiting schools to deliver talks to students and career guidance counsellors, attend career fairs and hold information days/ evenings for students, parents and others”. Information on all apprenticeship programmes are available on the generation apprenticeship website – apprenticeship.ie. There are currently 73 apprenticeships available across a wide range of sectors, such as construction, engineering, motor, ICT, hospitality, insurance, etc. There are also several apprenticeships currently in development such as digital marketing and media, precision machinist, and quality control, etc.

For more information, contact Seamus on 0872662460, or email seamus.keane@gretb.ie.

Jacqueline Dowd Teacher (ICT skills and business administration)

Jacqueline Dowd works as a teacher with GRETB, delivering the ICT skills (Level 4) and business administration course (Level 5).

Jacqueline explained that these courses o er a real “all-round perspective – from learning how to properly use a computer, word processing, creating web designs, digital media, social media, etc”.

Jacqueline highlighted that these courses are very useful for those planning to continue with education but noted “it’s also about getting those transferable skills under your belt to bring straight with you into any job”.

“At Level 4, you get a really good foundation across the board”, she explained. “And it does get you back into that education frame of mind, if you do want to build that up and move onto a Level 5”.

Jacqueline mentioned that the course attracts people of all learning stages: “My youngest student currently is 17/18, and my oldest somewhere in their 50s. And what’s great about that, and about the mix of people the courses attract in general, is that when you have such a wide variety of age, culture, gender, etc, everyone has their own perspective to o er, not to mention the di erent education they may have, the quali cations, life experience, work experience – it all really aids peer learning. That’s what’s great about further education and adult education”. More information about the courses available can be found on fetchcourses.ie and gretb.ie.

Bernie McHugh is the guidance counsellor for GRETB, covering all of Roscommon county.

Bernie has an o ce based on Lanesboro Street and is available to meet with learners and the general public by appointment. GRETB’s Guidance Information and Recruitment Service is available to anyone interested in education A free, impartial, professional and con dential service is o ered in relation to the range of training and educational options available. The guidance service aims to o er the necessary support to help make an informed choice and decide which option suits best, taking into account the personal circumstances.

For more information, contact the service on 1800 140 242 or email guidance@gretb.ie.

Dolores McSharry

Community Education Facilitator

Dolores McSharry is a Community Education Facilitator with GRETB, working in the eld of community education throughout Roscommon.

GRETB’s community education service o ers learners the opportunity to identify any learning needs they might have and learn in an informal setting within their own community, with GRETB providing grants and tutor hours to allow groups to run and manage their own courses. Community education also administers REACH funding to support IT funding and digital infrastructure.

Dolores explained that identifying their own needs is a key component of what community education o ers learners: “We don’t dictate to them how to learn; they come to us to identify their own learning needs and what they’re looking for. The beauty (of community education) is people can learn within their own community setting, which makes it very accessible, so we encourage people and groups to run educational and training courses in their local area, whatever those courses may be”.

Some of the types of courses mentioned include arts and crafts, hair and beauty, community development and leadership, DIY skills, permaculture, biodiversity, and much more.

“Because learners identify their own needs, it really can be anything”, Dolores explained. “Recently we had forest bathing!” Dolores also highlighted that as courses are non-accredited, the informal aspect allows for a lot of “good fun” in addition to the learning aspect: “There’s a lot less pressure, especially since it’s a shorter time commitment, with courses only taking 6-8 weeks.

“And this is great for social inclusion too”, she noted, “sometimes the chat and the cup of tea after is just as important to people as the actual subject area!” GRETB has worked with many di erent groups in facilitating community education courses, such as men’s and women’s sheds, community development groups, marginalised communities, active retirement groups, etc.

To register (in Roscommon), you can contact Dolores via email at dolores.mcsharry@gretb.ie, or phone 090 6634189/087 6266398.

Words: Alannah Ita Healy Photos: Kieran Croghan

Seamus Keane Apprenticeship Training Advisor

Bernie McHugh Guidance counsellor

So many benefits to further education courses – Orla Connaughton

Orla Connaughton Centre manager and (full-time) course coordinator

Orla Connaughton works as centre manager for GRETB in Roscommon town, overseeing the centre’s VTOS (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme) and traineeship programmes.

Speaking to the Roscommon People ahead of the upcoming open day, Orla outlined the major benefits of opting to enrol in a further education centre, such as GRETB in Roscommon.

“Research will tell you that doing a further education course before you go to college is hugely beneficial”, she said, noting, “it can help put students ahead by giving them that groundwork and confidence from the start”. Orla also explained that “not everyone is going to get the points” to do they course they want, so opting for further education can often be a helpful way to access career paths.

“Another great thing for learners is that our full-time courses are all free”, she noted, “and you come away with a QQI certification that is recognised across Europe”. Orla explained that the centre offers a variety of full-time courses, from business administration to the centre’s new pre-nursing course. “There aren’t a huge amount of pre-nursing courses out there”, she explained. “So that is something we’re excited to be providing”.

Talking about the centre’s business administration course, which she explained has evolved to include modules like digital marketing and web authoring, Orla highlighted that the centre is “not just for those interested in progressing to third level”.

“A lot of these course really help people gain employment. Many people doing the healthcare courses are employed by the time they finish here, because work experience forms part of the course.

“And because we do business, we get employers contacting us when they’re looking for people, asking us to forward on their details and get people to send on CVs. So, we’re starting to gain links there with employers more and more”.

For more, contact Orla on orla.connaughton@gretb.ie or phone 090 6626151/ 086 7738705, or view the courses on offer at fetchcourses.ie.

Words: Alannah Ita Healy Photos: Kieran Croghan

A group of learners from GRETB in Roscommon town pictured with teacher Jacqueline Dowd.

Pictured is Orla Connaughton, centre manager and (full-time) course coordinator at GRETB in Roscommon town.

Advertorial

Imagine a Greener, Cleaner Car – with the Go Green Car Loan from Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union

Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union is delighted to announce that we have been appointed as a Sustainable Energy Community Hub by the SEAI; we are committed to fostering sustainability and supporting our members in making eco-conscious choices and facilitating them in the transition towards greener transportation options.

The Go Green Car Loan is designed to empower individuals in the Athlone and Castlerea areas to reduce their carbon footprint by offering a favourable financing solution for environmentally friendly vehicles. Whether members are looking to switch to an electric, hybrid, or other low-emission alternative, this loan provides accessible and affordable options to make the shift towards sustainable transportation a reality.

“At Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union, we recognise the importance of taking proactive steps towards a

more sustainable future,” said Michael Evans, CEO of Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union. “We are delighted with our appointment as a Sustainable Energy Community Hub by the SEAI and are excited to introduce the Go Green Car Loan, which will enable our members to embrace greener mobility solutions while also contributing to environmental preservation efforts”.

The Go Green Car Loan offers a competitive interest rate and flexible repayment terms tailored to meet the diverse needs of members. With the support of Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union, individuals can make informed decisions about their vehicle purchases, prioritising energy efficiency and reducing emissions.

“As a newly appointed hub within the SEAI Sustainable Energy Community Network, Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union is poised to play a pivotal

role in advancing sustainability initiatives in our local communities,” added Mr Evans. “By offering the Go Green Car Loan, we aim to empower individuals to embrace cleaner transportation options, contributing to a greener, more environmentally conscious society”.

Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union encourages all members interested in reducing their emissions or transitioning to greener vehicles to explore the benefits of the Go Green Car Loan. With a commitment to sustainability and community support, the credit union remains dedicated to driving positive change and promoting a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.

For more information about the Go Green Car Loan and other sustainable financing options, visit our website, accu.ie, or drop into any of our offices in Irishtown, Monksland (Athlone) or Castlerea.

Sephoria Boutique 10th anniversary

Pictured following the recent Green Business Hub event which took place in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon are (l-r): Jeremy Cullen, Roscommon Local Enterprise O ce; Sinead Ni Mhainnin, Connacht Ulster Region Waste Management Planning O ce; Marie Devane, Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board; and Jonathan Jones, Environment Education O cer, Roscommon County Council. The event was organised by Roscommon County Council, in association with Roscommon Local Enterprise O ce (LEO).

Sephoria Boutique proprietor Kate Lynch pictured with Tina O’Leary last Saturday during the Roscommon outlet’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

Sephoria Boutique in Roscommon celebrated its 10th anniversary last Saturday.

Customers pictured at Sephoria Boutique in Roscommon last Saturday for the Customer Appreciation Day, held to celebrate the outlet’s 10th anniversary.

Sephoria Boutique in Roscommon celebrated its 10th anniversary last Saturday.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

‘Doorways, Castlerea’ – a unique photography exhibition

Learners in GRETB Castlerea have embarked on a community-based, action-learning project entitled ‘Doorways, Castlerea’.

This exciting project entails photographing the residents of Castlerea in their doorways. The intention of the project is to create an interesting social document and archive, one which represents the town’s population in 2024.

While providing a historically interesting resource for future generations, the project will also provide a valuable learning scenario.

All participating learners will gain insight into the roles and responsibilities of a working photographer, honing digital photography and professional printing skills, all while practicing setting up an exhibition.

Participants have volunteered to be photographed to become part of this resource and they are providing an active opportunity for learners.

This is the first iteration of the project and it is hoped that it will continue to grow and develop in the coming years, with the aim being to document as many households and business owners as possible. Organisers would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who volunteered to be photographed.

The photographs are being exhibited in Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea (F45AW27) until 3 pm on Friday, May 24th 2024, following an official opening in the centre on May 22nd.

Boyle Musical Society’s

Ruby Anniversary Concert

Rehearsals are ongoing for Boyle Musical Society’s Ruby Anniversary Concert, which takes place this Sunday with a cast of over sixty taking part – it will certainly be a night to remember!

The concert, which celebrates forty years of musicals in Boyle, will take place at 7 pm on Sunday, May 26th, in St Joseph’s Church, and promises to be an enchanting evening of music, memories, and much more!

Past and present members, including many familiar faces and special guests, will look back over the last four decades of shows with solo and group performances of wellknown songs, along with a few surprises too.

Tickets for the concert are available now from the Boyle Craft Shop at King House, Taylors Jewellers on Bridge Street, Magee’s Fashion Shop on Main Street, and Natural Options. Please note that all seats are unreserved. Telephone bookings can be made on 071 966 3033.

Tickets will also be available at the door – and don’t forget to bring cash for the monster draw, with a €300 cast prize up for grabs, sponsored by Nordson, and €100 vouchers from Marian’s, Mary Magee’s, and Boles of Boyle!

Roscommon Chamber Music Festival 2024

Roscommon Chamber Music Festival returns in 2024 with a feast of concerts to satisfy aficionados and newcomers alike! The 2024 festival will take place from June 7th to 9th

across two venues, Roscommon Arts Centre and King House, Boyle.

The festival organisers are very excited to present four concerts showcasing the best of local and inter-

national talent, playing the lush folk-dance inspired music of the Czech tradition, the angular brilliance of Adès, Stravinsky and Milhaud, fresh new music from Gabriella Smith, and our fond favourites, Brahms and R Strauss.

The fantastic artist line-up this year includes soprano Amy Ní Fhearraigh, violinist Phoebe White, cellist Killian White, pianist Peter Regan, clarinetist Anna Webster, and the Treske Quartet.

The opening night event – taking place in King House Boyle from 8 pm on Friday, June 7th – will see the complete collection of RCMF 2024 artists come together for a rich and varied programme of song, quartets and trios, to satiate even the hungriest musical appetite. This will include Mendelssohn’s haunting ‘F Minor String Quartet’,

Brahms’s sublime ‘Clarinet Trio’, sumptuous songs by Strauss, and the startling ‘Court Studies’ by Thomas Adès.

For the lunchtime offering, at 1 pm on Saturday, June 8th, you can join pianist Peter Regan, soprano Amy Ní Fhearraigh, violinist Phoebe White, cellist Killian White and clarinettist Anna Webster in Roscommon Arts Centre for a refreshing programme of Suk’s lush ‘Elegie for Piano Trio’, Dvořák’s folk-inspired ‘Dumky’ trio and ‘Gypsy Melodies’, and Milhaud’s scintillating ‘Suite for Violin, Clarinet and Piano’.

The Saturday Smorgasbord concert takes place on Saturday evening in Roscommon Arts Centre at 8 pm and features an incredible variety of ensembles and repertoire designed to delight and astonish. Treske Quartet, one of the UK’s

finest emerging ensembles, offers Gabriella Smith’s rock and-roll ‘Carrot Revolution’ and Stravinsky’s spiky ‘Three Pieces for String Quartet’. For the grand finale, Treske Quartet and pianist Peter Regan join forces for Dvořák’s ‘Piano Quintet No. 2’ – a firm favourite among musicians and audiences alike.

As the weekend winds down to a close, at 2 pm on Sunday, June 9th, in King House, Boyle, you can enjoy the final strains of the Bohemian-themed festival as Phoebe White, Peter Regan and Treske Quartet lead through you a journey of deeply personal and heartfelt music.

Tickets for the Roscommon Chamber Music Festival can be purchased from roscommonartscentre.ie. Visit roscommonchambermusicfestival.com for more information.

New permanent exhibition opens at historic gallery kitchen in Strokestown Park House

A new exhibition has been launched at Strokestown Park House, in the last preserved 18th century gallery kitchen in Ireland. Titled ‘Food, Feasts and Footmen’, the exhibition sheds light on servant life through displays and informative narratives highlighting kitchen workspaces, food preparation and serving, in addition to the contrasting existences of the gentry in the dining room.

The unique gallery kitchen was concealed behind partition walls until its rediscovery in the early 1980s. The exhibition’s engaging interpretation allows visitors to gain a practical understanding of servant life and downstairs in the ‘Big House’. This new dimension to the guided tour of Strokestown Park’s Palladian House also includes insights into the laborious tasks performed by pre-

dominantly female kitchen staff and the strict hierarchical rules they abided by.

Drawing from the records left by Strokestown Park’s last resident, Olive Pakenham Mahon, who lived there until 1980, the exhibition was also meticulously researched from records in the National Library of Ireland, and additionally examines the decline of servant numbers in Irish society after

World War I.

Curated by the Irish Heritage Trust, which manages the historic property, this fascinating exhibition has been supported by funding from the Regional Exhibition Scheme (2023) of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, & Media, and from Westward Holdings, the owner of the property. John O’Driscoll, Irish Heritage Trust

General Manager at Strokestown Park and the National Famine Museum says, “We are delighted to reveal another dimension of Strokestown Park’s rich history and to honour the often-overlooked contributions of its invisible servants. It is fitting that we are launching this exhibition during the week of the Commemorative National Famine Walk from Strokestown”.

Rehearsals are underway for Boyle Musical Society’s Ruby Anniversary Concert this Sunday. Pic: Benny Morgan

Pictured is violinist Phoebe White, who is among the performers set to feature in this year’s Roscommon Chamber Music Festival.

GOING OUT

Ken Loughrey, Ivor Trimble and Ronan Kilcommons pictured at the recent Creggs RFC awards night in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Steve Fahey

Congratulations to the Ballymoe Active Retirement Association on the 10th anniversary of the branch’s founding. Pictured are members of the Ballymoe ARA during the recent celebration of their wonderful milestone.

Janice Doyle, Nadine McLoughlin and Mia Doyle pictured on Monday at the Roscommon Races. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Darragh Hughes, Eoin Kiernan and Aaron Lyons. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Daryl, Mae and Emma Miley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured on Monday at the Roscommon Races were Olivia and Daniel Downey, Mike Doolan, Beth Woodward and Sheila Small. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Adrian Grealy from the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon presenting Ciaran O’Toole, Gerry Lilis, Gavin King and Michael O’Toole – the owners of Sea Eagle who won the Abbey Hotel Roscommon Handicap of €12,000 – with their prize at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured on Monday evening at the Roscommon Races were Mary Grehan and Maggie Fitzgerald. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Ciara and Leo O’Connell pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

SheepShearingChampionships

Up to 10,000 expected to attend

Kepak Shearfest 2024 in Mountbellew

It’s ‘the Olympics of sheep shearing!’

‘Like the ploughing, but with sheep’ – that’s a ‘short’ way of describing Kepak Shearfest, a weekend of sheep shearing, family fun, and much more! And this year, it’s taking place locally in Mountbellew, kicking off at the mart grounds on the June bank holiday weekend (June 1st and 2nd 2024).

Up to 10,000 visitors are expected to attend the elite event, which is being held in Mountbellew for the first time ever!

Competitors will come from across the island of Ireland, Eng-

land, Scotland, Wales, France, Australia, and New Zealand. It will be the largest dedicated sheep event of the year in Ireland. This is ‘the Olympics of sheep shearing’.

Organiser Brian McHale of Mountbellew Mart says, “This event will promote the West of Ireland and Irish wool to a worldwide audience”.

The packed two-day programme includes kids’ entertainment, live music from Claudia Buckley and Ciaran Rosney, sheepdog demonstrations, raf-

fles, food trucks, crafts, an Irish Wool Experience and much more!

But the fun doesn’t end at dusk. There will be two nights of brilliant live music at MARTBEAT. Taking place at the mart grounds, the guests lined up to perform include Mike Denver, George Murphy and The Rising Sons, Michael English, and Cliona Hagan. Gates open at 8 pm. Tickets are available via tickets.ie or shearfest.ie. Don’t miss out!

Mike Denver.

Pictured at the recent launch of the All-Ireland and All-Nations Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Championship in the Malt House, Mountbellew were the Mountbellew Sheep Shearing organising committee. (Front row, l-r): George Graham (ISSA), Michael Cunni e, Jim Noone, Eamonn Moran; (back row, l-r): Paul Dunne, Hazel Crowe (ISSA), Gerry Rushe, Denny McHugh, Joanne Devaney, Noel Heavey, Willie Heneghan, Oliver Noone, Sean O’Neill, Kevin Ryan, Martin Fleming, Aidan Scanlon, James Mannion and Martin Raftery.

Pictured with some ‘Early Bird’ tickets at the recent launch of the All-Ireland and All-Nations Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Championship in the Malt House, Mountbellew were (front row, l-r): Nancy Lyons, Carmel Rushe, Maura Hannon, Rynagh Mannion; (back row, l-r): Philip Higgins, Geraldine Noone and Joe Small.

Claudia Buckley.

 PAUL CONNAUGHTON

The sensational news that Mountbellew, Co Galway, has been chosen for this year’s Kepak Shearfest 2024 All-Ireland and All-Nations Sheep Shearing Championships has been greeted with great enthusiasm.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 1st, and Sunday, June 2nd, at Mountbellew Livestock Mart. The organising committee, led by Chairperson Michael Cunniffe, have organised a mammoth festival around the event.

Young families will particularly enjoy it as the festival will contain all the fun of the fair for children of all ages!

Meanwhile, the adult dancing public will get a great chance to enjoy the magnificent Mike Denver and his band on the Saturday night, and the ever-popular Michael English on the Sunday night.

Sheep Country

It’s very appropriate that Mountbellew is holding this year’s festival, as County Galway is home to a fifth of Ireland’s sheep, with a flock totalling 423,000!

Sheep farming has always been a useful revenue earner for local farmers. Back in my youth, every field contained the great Galway breed of ewe – an animal of great strength with a good fleece, but which didn’t produce as many lambs as some new breeds. The Galway breed of sheep has held its own to this day, and all the credit must go to the voluntary efforts of the Galway Sheep Breeders Association.

Getting ready for the fair

As a youngster back in the 1950s, I saw my dad do all the necessary tasks to produce lambs for sale, to both the meat factories and the live trade.

I can still see the lines of horse carts and grey Ferguson TVO tractors outside the famous ‘Paddy’s Lamb Factory’ in Ballinasloe, owned by the late Paddy Lynch, on the site where Barretts/ Chadwicks now stands.

But we sold most of our lambs at the sheep fair in Mountbellew – and what an outing that was! We wouldn’t have to go to school that day because it was typically closed, or I’d be kept out regard-

less to walk the lambs the three miles to the fair. I’ve the most pleasant memories of doing that walk on lovely June mornings at 6 am – watching the rising sun as we travelled slowly over Longford Hill to the sound of the chirping birds, intermingled with the bleating of the lambs and the voices of nervous farmers hoping trade would be good that day.

However, the action was not confined to the morning of the fair. A few day before, dad would yoke his pony and cart and bring up slabs of timber and nail them together to form rough penning to tie to the railings of shops and houses. This was to warn other farmers that this was his selling territory.

Great characters

I often saw some great haggling, with raised voices as buyers swooped down, handling every pen for weight and quality.

My dad used to spray each lamb with a light-coloured spray dip to improve the look of the animal, a type of cosmetic approach. Unfortunately many buyers did not fall for this marketing ploy; I remember hearing one shout, “Sir, feed your lambs better and never mind this codology!”

Few women

I never saw many women at the fairs, however one particular incident stands out in my mind down through the years.

I’d noticed a great deal of commotion at one particular pen; the selling farmer had just accepted an agreed price document from a buyer when the process was interrupted by the farmer’s wife, who snapped the ticket out of his hand and tore it to pieces.

“I’ll not take that price for my lambs!”, she said, “They are worth more”.

There was utter disbelief among the onlookers. It became immediately obvious who wore the trousers in that house.

The irritated buyer shouted “Keep the blooming lambs”, and then really put the boot in it, yelling, “It must’ve been love at first sight(!)”

Washing the sheep

Another big event took place before the sheep were shorn: the

Fantastic Range of SOLAR LIGHTS

Memories of great characters and happy times in ‘Sheep Country’

washing of the wool.

The sheep were brought to the ‘big river’ as we called it, and flocked together at the edge of the water. Our job as children was to keep them there.

The operation was organised by my dad and our next-door neighbour Ned Keane. As Ned was a great big man, his job was to stand in the middle of the river, nearly three foot deep, and my dad would catch a ewe and throw her to Ned, who would shove her up and down several times to wash the oil and other foreign materials off the fleece – a very exhausting job for both man and beast.

One time, we had been at it for a few hours when Ned called for the next animal, which turned out to be the ram himself. However Ned was getting tired by that stage, and he and the ram ended up having an enormous battle, resulting in the ram knocking Ned back and getting its nose caught in the zip of Ned’s trousers.

After washing, my dad would use a hand shears to take the wool off. While he was slow by today’s standards (it’d take a few half-days), he got the job done as he would say himself. He then showed us how to carefully spread the wool out, roll it, and tie it with a wool rope made from the fleece itself.

Wool Sales

Selling that wool was usually an enjoyable day for us.

We sold either to the Mill in Mountbellew (now Ganley’s store), or in Gilmore’s in Moylough. I can still see the friendly Mickey Gilmore, a wool merchant and father of John and Tom Gilmore, weighing the wool and checking it out. Gay Browne in Tuam was a large exporter of wool in those days too.

While wool prices back then did fluctuate, they were many times better than in recent years. Now it’s an actual cost to farmers to take wool from sheep, but I remember a story going around our village in the 1950s about a farmer who stored his wool for two years and was able to buy a new Ferguson with the price he got!

But on June 1st and 2nd, Mountbellew will once again give the public a close-up view of the best sheep shearers in the world, as visitors from Europe, New Zealand, and Australia compete

SheepShearingChampionships

against the very best of our Irish shearers! Don’t miss out!

*Paul Connaughton was a TD for East Galway for almost 35 years and was Minister of State for Agriculture in Dr Garret FitzGerald’s Government in the 1980s.

Pictured at the recent launch of the All-Ireland and All-Nations Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Championship in the Malt House, Mountbellew were David Mannion (centre) from Kepak on the ‘Shearathon’ surrounded by the organising committee of (front row, l-r): Martin Raftery, Jim Noone; (back row, l-r): Paul Connaughton, Oliver Noone, Michael Cunni e, Aidan Scanlon, Martin Fleming, Denny McHugh, Willie Heneghan, Noel Heavey, Eamonn Moran, James Mannion and Gerry Rushe.

Michael Fitzmaurice TD on the ‘Shearathon’ while Joanne Devaney, leading female shearer, does the shearing during the recent launch of the All-Ireland and All-Nations Sheep Shearing and Wool Handling Championship in the Malt House, Mountbellew.

Government intervention on Nature Restoration Law is ill-judged, says IFA

IFA President Francie

Gorman said the move by Minister Eamon Ryan to lead a campaign of 11 EU countries to have the Nature Restoration Law approved by the EU Council in June is ill-judged.

“I met Minister Malcolm Noonan recently and made it clear that farmers would continue to participate in schemes to improve biodiversity, but we are completely opposed to the proposed EU Nature Restoration Law on a number of fronts,” he said.

“Firstly, dealing with this issue through a law is wrong. We are told it will all be voluntary, but that is not consistent with introducing a legal requirement,” he explained. “Secondly, it is important that those farming within Natura 2000 sites are not over burdened with the requirements to restore habitats, and that agricultural activity in these areas, specifically those referenced in Article 4 of the document,

is allowed to continue.

“Finally, there needs to be proper funding and a full impact assessment completed. These are essential, but they are still outstanding.

“The reason the law has been held up is because a number of Member States

Roscommon MART WATCH

There was a smaller entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s special sale of bullocks. Bullocks fetched an average of €3.04 per kilo up to €4.41, and there was also a good entry of dry cows, who made an average of €2.42 per kilo up to €2.98 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside, with online bidders also active.

Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.42 per kilo up to €2.98 per kilo. Sample prices: 1X CHX -855KG -€2,130 -€2.49 per kg, 1X CH- 805KG- €2,150- €2.67 per kg, 1X CHX -775KG- €2,000€2.58 per kg, 1X LMX -725KG -€2,160- €2.98 per kg, 1X BBX-

Sale on 16/5/24: Over 700 lots presented for sale on Thursday last and aided by improved weather and grass growth trade remained strong for all classes of stock on offer.

The bullock ring witnessed top quality stores make up to €3.86 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €2090.

The heifer ring witnessed the top quality stores exceed €4 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €2170. The weanling rings witnessed the bulls peak at €4.03 a kilo while the heifer weanlings made up to €4.30 a kilo.

Cows with calves at foot made up to €2880 while springers topped out at €2700. The dry cow ring saw the top quality lots exceed €3 a kilo with lots topping out at €2450. Demand for the store cows has increased in recent weeks. The bull ring with good numbers on offer reported an excellent clearance.

SAMPLE PRICES

BULLOCKS: Ch 490kgs €1810 AA 490kgs €1810 Ch 505kgs €1950 Ch 535kgs €1840 AA 510kgs €1760 AA 580kgs €2150 AA 510kgs €1760 AA 580kgs €2150 lm

€2090 Hex 356kgs €1090 Lm 335kgs €1250 AA 353kgs €1120.

HEIFERS: AAx 400kgs 1630 Lm 355kgs €1400 Ch 373kgs €1360 Ch 480kgs €1730 Ch 470kgs €1640 Ch 445kgs. €1380 Ch 760kgs €2170 Ch 570kgs €1940 Ch 525kgs €1650 Hex 525kgs €1380 Shx 500kgs €1800 Ch 485kgs €1860. DRY COWS: Lm 870kgs €2450 Lm 795kgs €2280 BBx 715kgs €2160 BBx 690kgs €2080 Ch 710kgs €1980 Lm 665kgs €1970 Fr 485kgs €850 Fr420kgs €740.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1580 to €2880 for a limousin cow and her heifer calf at foot. Springers made up to €2700.

CALVES: Good numbers on offer – lots made from €5 to €450 for continental lots.

RUNNERS: Lots made from €330 to €850 for continental lots.

WEANLING BULLS: Lmx 295kgs €1190 Lm 290kgs €1130 Ch 270kgs €980 AA 275kgs €950 Lm 425kgs €1630 BBx 410kgs €1480 AA 435kgs €1440 Ch 400kgs €1400 Ch 355kgs €1260 Ch 370kgs €1350.

WEANLING HEIFERS: Lm 295kgs €1090 Lm 260kgs €1090 Ch 280kgs €1020 Ch 280kgs €980 Lm 360kgs €1550 Lm 385kgs €1480 Lm 350kgs €1260 AA 305kgs €1030. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart.

are now unsure about various aspects of the law. The EU and Minister Ryan would have been far better off engaging directly with farmers and looking to deal with this through incentives, rather than bringing in a flawed law,” he concluded.

675KG- €1,950- €2.89 per kg, 1X CHX- 625KG -€1,690- €2.70 per kg, and 1X AAX-580KG-€1,430€2.47 per kg.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €3.04 per kilo up to €4.41 per kilo. Sample prices: 1X CHX840KG- €2,210- €2.63 per kg, 1X LMX- 800KG- €2,410- €3.01 per kg, 1X CHX-750KG- €2,090€2.79 per kg, 1X LMX- 730KG€2,160- €2.96 per kg, 1X LMX645KG- €2,290- €3.55 per kg, 1X LMX- 600KG- €2,060- €3.43 per kg, 1X CHX -570KG- €2,330€4.09 per kg, 1X CHX -515KG -€1,750- €3.40 per kg, and 1X CHX – 450KG-€1,750- €3.40 per kg.

Sheep

We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Sheep on Wednesday, May 22nd

Prices for spring lambs made up to €235 while hoggets topped out at €225. The tops for stag ewes was €275.

The next sale of lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, May 29th

The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Spring lambs, sample prices: 50.5kgs -€235- €4.65 per kg, 48kgs -€227- €4.73 per kg, 46kgs

-€228- €4.96 per kg, 45.5kgs -€219- €4.81 per kg, 42.8kgs -€210- €4.91 per kg, 41.6kgs -€134- €3.22 per kg. Hoggets, sample prices: 47kgs€225 - €4.79 per kg, 47kgs - €214 - €4.55 per kg, 55.8kgs - €200 - €3.58 per kg, 45.5kgs - €200€4.40 per kg.

ewes, sample prices:

€275 - €2.18

IFA President Francie Gorman

Nature restoration supports the recovery of damaged ecosystems and bring more nature and biodiversity back everywhere.

Friday, 31st May at 11 a.m.

Also Dry Cows and Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday, 27th May at 5 p.m. Tuesday, 28th May at 4 p.m.

Bookings accepted until Thursday, 23rd May at 5 p.m.

A scene from this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held last Sunday at the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

A scene from this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships which were held last Sunday at the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Local musician Derek Campbell entertained the crowd during last Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Construction of 40 new homes in Roscommon began last month – Murphy

Local Fianna Fáil senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the recent publication by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage of its monthly data on the number of Commencement Notices (residential construction starts) for April 2024.

The data shows that last month, 18,000 Commencement Notices for new homes were received nationwide by the Building Control Authorities. In Roscommon, 40 new homes began construction in April.

Senator Murphy said, “The data for housing commencements last month shows the progress Fianna Fáil in government is making in tackling the housing crisis.

“In April, building started on approximately 18,000 new homes nationwide. That is unprecedented for any month on record. The data represents in a single month, over half of last year’s total commencements which was in itself a record.

“The recent continuation of the development levy waiver and Irish Water connection charge rebate shows that we are using every lever at our disposal to tackle housing.

“The dramatic acceleration of building caused by these measures means so far this year we have 29,000 homes under construction nationwide. That is approximately 340 homes starting on site every single working day this year.

“It is remarkable evidence that the measures we have taken are bearing fruit and that Fianna Fáil’s policy, Housing for All, is working. These figures show that our plan is working, and my focus is on doing whatever I can to keep this positive momentum going”, he concluded.

Own Centre

Auctioneers & Estate Agents

Main Street, Ballygar. Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664

Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472 moranandco.ie

Friaryland, Gorteenfada and Leha, Creggs, Co. Galway.

The lands are laid out in divisions :

Friaryland c. 14.9 acres of farmlands laid out in one division with old buildings thereon. The lands which are well located have extensive road frontage and possible site potential. The lands have been neglected in recent years and require investment.

Gorteenfada c. 33.5 acres of farmlands laid out in two divisions which are located directly across from each other.

Leha c. 3.33 acres of turbary and c. 2.05 acres of turbary. (NHA area)

The property is convenient to Creggs, Ballygar and Glenamaddy. Some of the lands may be suitable for forestry. The property is being offered for sale in one or more lots. Inspection recommended.

Lands c. 53.75 acres For Sale By Private Treaty Full details from

Ballinacor, Newbridge, Co. Galway. Lands c. 7.5 acres For Sale By Private Treaty

The grazing lands which are laid out in one division are well located just a short distance off the N63. The lands require investment. They are convenient to Newbridge and Ballygar. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone seeking a small holding , lands for horses or additional lands in the area.

Full details from the auctioneer David Moran .

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD cuts the ribbon to unveil the new housing development in Monksland along with members of Roscommon County Council executive, councillors and election candidates during his recent visit to Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

THE MARKET TWO-STOREY DETACHED RESIDENCE (RECENTLY RENOVATED) STANDING ON APPROX 14 ACRES LISMURTAGH, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 XC64

Prime 72-acre farm new to the market with Remax Team Earley

Cathal Meares of Remax Team Earley is delighted to present to the market, for sale by private treaty or auction, approximately 72 acres of a prime residential farm, located at Corracreigh, Elphin, Co Roscommon.

The property is comprised in folios RN24920, RN870, RN27570, and RN12188F, and is the estate of the late Christopher Breslin.

The picturesque countryside of Corracreigh is where tranquillity meets opportunity, with this expansive 72-acre residential farm. Nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, this property presents an unparalleled canvas for rural living or agricultural pursuits.

As you enter the gates of this sprawling estate, you’ll be greeted by approximately 72 acres of prime lands, offering a blend of fertile pastures and versatile terrain. Approximately 52 acres boast the finest quality soil in the region, ideal for agricultural endeavours ranging from grazing livestock to crop cultivation. An additional 20 acres of lowlying lands further enhance the property’’s agricultural potential, providing ample opportunity for expansion or diversification, with potential for fishing on the lake they adjoin.

Amenities abound on this farmstead, with a range of outbuildings catering to various needs. From practical storage sheds to

a silage slab and a well equipped cattle shed with cattle handling facilities, every aspect of agricultural operation is accommodated with ease and efficiency.

Nestled amidst the pastoral beauty lies a derelict cottage, offering a glimpse into the property’s rich history and untapped potential. This charming structure presents an exciting opportunity for further development, whether as a quaint guest cottage, a rustic retreat, or a modernised residence blending tradition with contemporary comforts.

The heart of the property, the main dwelling, exudes warmth and character, offering four bedrooms, a bathroom, and approximately 1,300 square feet of living space. Whether as a permanent residence or a weekend getaway, this cosy abode provides a comfortable retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life, inviting residents to unwind and embrace the serenity of rural living.

Flexibility is key, as the property can be sold together with the main dwelling and outbuildings, or separately should market interest dictate, providing potential buyers with a range of options to suit their unique needs and preferences.

The property is available in lots. Lot 1 comprises the entire property, to include approximately 72 acres with the benefit of 28.20 entitlements,

a four-bedroomed residence, storage sheds, a three-bay hay barn, five-bay lean tos, yard, silage slab, and crush and pen.

Lot 2 comprises of approximately 71 acres with the benefit of 28.20 entitlements, farm yard, and outbuildings. And finally, lot 3 comprises of the four-bedroomed residence on

approximately an acre, with storage sheds.

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

Legal: Joan Harrington Solicitor, Strokestown – 071 963

4608. The BER rating for the property is G. For full details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie, or contact auctioneer Cathal directly on 086 1409158.

Classifieds

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

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

 ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS:

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

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and ues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone: 087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

Specialising in:

Telephone: 086 8433433 Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland VHI and Laya Covered

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

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

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

● Groundworks

● Renovations

● Chimney CCTV Inspections

● Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

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

Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

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

Fully Insured Contact Alan on 087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

Full Planning Permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for the proposed construction of a residential development of 8 No. dwelling houses consisting of 2 no. four bedroom two storey detached type dwelling houses, 6 no. three bedroom two storey semi-detached type dwelling houses together with the proposed connections to the existing foul sewer, surface water and watermain networks which service the existing estate known as “Lisnaree,” all on the same site on which full planning permission was previously granted for the construction of a similar development under Planning Reference Number PD/04/619 and all ancillary site works at Lisnaree, Lisroyne, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon for Avenir Homes Ltd.

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

Signed: Cunningham Design & Planning Ltd. Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Jonathan and Catriona Quinn intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for alterations and extension to existing dwelling house at Knockcroghery, Roscommon. The proposed alterations consist of:

A. Erection of two storey extension to rear of the existing house.

B. Close up window openings to side elevations of existing house.

C. Demolition of existing rear extension.

D. All ancillary development works.

Signed: Jonathan and Catriona Quinn

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

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of ve 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.

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, John Connolly, Secretary of Athleague Hurling Club intend to apply for planning permission for development at Cloonykelly, Athleague, County Roscommon.

The development will consist of:

(A) Construction of a 2.0m wide walkway around GAA grounds.

(B) Erect 29 no. 100 watt LED lights on 5.0m high lighting standards on the walkway.

(C) Ball retaining nets.

(D) Associated siteworks.

Signed:

Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.

P: (087) 2222874

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Jennifer Anderson and Mark Anderson, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission:

1. To demolish existing front porch and rear extension,

2. To refurbish derelict house to include alterations to elevations,

3. To construct new extension to the rear,

4. To make alterations to the existing site entrance

5. To install upgraded treatment system and percolation area, and all ancillary site development works at Gortlustia, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon, F42YH90. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road

Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365

Mob: 085 1299470

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

Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Joe Murray intend to apply for planning permission for a change of use for development at Athleague Td, County Roscommon. The development will consist of the change of use of part of an existing joinery workshop (Protected Structure Ref- 04100530) to a ground oor o ce and associated siteworks.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.

P: (087) 2222874

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Patricia Downey and Joe Cowan, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission:

1. For change of use from a derelict primary school to a domestic dwelling house and to refurbish and extend the building to incorporate additional bedrooms and living space,

2. To install new treatment system and percolation area,

3. To upgrade the existing site vehicular entrance and all ancillary site development works at Gort Na Clasin School, Rathnalulleagh, Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon, F45FK13.

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

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

Signed:

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

Ph: 090 6634365

Mob: 085 1299470

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

Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Ciaran Devaney, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to extend and renovate an existing dwelling house.

The works will include:

1. The demolition of an existing extension and the construction of a new extension to the rear of the dwelling

2. The removal of 2 no. existing chimneys

3. The widening of 2 no. existing rear window openings and to construct a new window opening

4. The construction of a new double-door opening, in the West gable elevation together with all associated site works at Faus, Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

Signed: Ciaran Devaney

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Further information request by the planning authority in relation to application for construction of 6 Bay Slatted shed with creep and associated site works at Curlea Td., Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon for Brian Geraghty. Planning Ref. No. 2420. Application submitted on 15/02/24. Following a requirement of the planning authority a Natura Impact Statement will be submitted to the planning authority in connection with the application. The NIS will be available for inspection or purchase, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during o ce hours at the o ces of the planning authority and that subject to the payment of any relevant fee, a submission or observation in relation to the NIS may be made in writing to the planning authority within 5 weeks of the date of receipt by the authority of the NIS.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Mairead Beades, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Rahara TD, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of Permission for demolition of part of an existing derelict building and the refurbishment and extension to an existing building and turn it into two new dwellings with two new wastewater treatment systems, and a new road entrance, and all associated site works.

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

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Mary Brennan intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to refurbish and extend existing dwelling, demolition of boiler house and utility room, raise existing roof structure for attic storage, revised front elevation and new external insulation, plasterwork, new windows/doors and removal of chimney, associated site development works and services at Ardnanagh, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Alan & Bernadette Hynes intend to apply for planning permission for development at Lissaneaville, Fuerty, County Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of an extension to an existing dwellinghouse and associated siteworks.

Signed:

Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.

P: (087) 2222874

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

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

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every

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 o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon

Physical Therapy Clinic

Movement Matters

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

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy

Medical Dry Needling

Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

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

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

● HSE Trained and Approved

● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

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

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

FIND

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available

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

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

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

Dylan Byrne DIP CHFP (Monday - Wednesday)

Tel: 089 2551716 or Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP (Thursday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

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

If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

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

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

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

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

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

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

APPOINTMENTS

NORTHWEST ROSCOMMON CDP CLG T/A

COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE

Community Employment Supervisor

• Company: Community Resource Centre

• Job Location: The Shambles, Market Street Ballaghaderreen F45 EW98

• Position: 1

• Start date: 01/07/2024

• Contract type: Permanent Full-time

• Position: 1

• Career level: Managerial

• Salary: Point 1 the CE Supervisor payscale

• Hours per week: 39

• Remote/Blended Working: No

Job description and skills required:

Community Resource Centre is seeking to recruit a CE Supervisor on a 12-month rolling contract subject to approval from the Department of Social Protection (DSP).

Function: To ensure the e ective and e cient management and co-ordination of the human, nancial and material resources of the CE Scheme and report to the Sponsoring Committee on its implementation. A core aspect of the role is to support and coach CE participants towards gaining the skills, competencies, and quali cations in preparation for employment. This is a full-time permanent position. Based on a 1-point scale, 6 months’ probation. 39 hours per week.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Job Title: Supervisor - Community Employment.

Reporting to: Chairperson - Sponsoring Management Committee.

Essential knowledge of post: Have a solid understanding of the role of the CE Supervisor as it pertains to project management and programme delivery. Display responsibility, commitment and motivation to implement the objectives of the CE Programme.

Work Experience: Previous supervisory and people management experience relevant to post (3 years minimum). Previous experience in Administration, Project Management and/or Training or other relevant positions.

Interpersonal skills: E ective communication skills. Competent report writing skills. Capable of directing, motivating, coaching, and mentoring jobseekers. Ability to work under the direction of the Sponsoring Organization for the e ective implementation of the CE Programme in line with the CE Operational Procedures.

Quali cations: CE Supervisor candidates must evidence competency in one or more of the following areas: Business/Financial Administration, Communication & Interpersonal Skills, Training, Human Resources, People Management, ICT skills (e.g. Microsoft O ce) and Payroll. Candidates should have 3 years supervisory experience and a major 3rd level quali cation (NFQ level 6 or higher) is desirable for the role.

Ability skills: Administration, Communications, Computer Literacy, Interpersonal Skills.

Competency skills: Collaboration, Management, Teamwork, Working on own Initiative. Specialising In: ICT skills, communication skills, report writing. Must be eligible to work in Ireland immediately.

Application instructions: Email your letter of application and CV to: recruitment@theshambles.ie ‘CE Supervisor’ in the subject line.

Closing date for applications: 5pm, Friday 14th June 2024. Must be available for in person interview.

BAR PERSON

Enquiries to:

Thomas A Murray’s Bar Castle Street, Roscommon Town Contact: 086 2582657

We are looking for

PROFESSIONAL STONE WORKER RESTORER

Yearly Salary €41,600

Job description: Skilled Stonemasons workers to do restoration on Old Stone Houses. Job location: Carrick-on-Shannon and Galway depending on job location. Hourly rate: €20 (40 hours per week). Please reply to: silveira911@gmail.com

 CARER WANTED: Carer required to look after lady, for night time and early morning (1.5 hours per morning) Roscommon Town. Please send enquiries to: P.O. Box 3107 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a speci c week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

WILSON (nee Ryan)

Anne

Aughavorney, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 23rd May 2021 (3rd Anniversary)

Looking back with memories, upon the path you trod. We bless the days we had with you and will leave the rest to God.

A silent thought, a quiet prayer for a special person in God’s care.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her husband Billy, daughter Laura, sisters Mary and Rosaleen, extended family and friends.

KELLY

Pat and Margaret (Peggy)

Derrane, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away on 17th April 2019 (5th Anniversary) Who passed away on 25th May 2017 (7th Anniversary)

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

Loved and missed by their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 25th May at 7pm.

Send your

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

HENNIGAN

Dermot

Douglas, Cork and Goff St., Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Dermot who passed away on 31st May 2023

(Birthday Remembrance 25th May)

It’s been the hardest thing to lose you, you meant so much to me, but you are in my heart Dermot and that’s where you’ll always be. I know that Heaven called you, but I wish you could have stayed, at least the memories I have of you, they will never fade. I did not want to lose you, but you did not go alone, because a part of me went with you when Heaven called you home. So just remember one thing, we are not apart You’re with me in my memories and in my broken heart.

The family of Dermot Hennigan would like to thank all those who looked after Dermot during his illness and would like to thank all those who sent kind words to the family since his passing on 31st May 2023.

Mass has been ofered.

Sadly missed by Dermot’s family, Róisín, Máiréad, Nóirín, Antonie and Diarmuid Óg, his mother Josephine and his siblings, Cora, Martha, Mary, Janet, Leona, Matt and families.

Anniversary Mass will be held in Douglas, Cork on Saturday, 1st June 2024.

Garvey (née Jordan)

Bridget (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bridget who died on the 26th May 2022

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

O’CONNOR Gerry

3 Aran Court, Galway Road, Roscommon Happy Birthday Gerry 21st May

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

Always loved and remembered, love Mum, Dad, sister, brothers and extended family.

SCANLON

Kevin Tuam, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon & Harrow, London

In loving memory of Kevin who passed away on 27th May 2021 (3rd Anniversary)

Sunshine passes and shadows fall, but love and memories outlast them all. You live in our hearts and walk by our side, from Heaven above you are always our guide. Unseen, unheard you are always nearby. Even though, it is comforting to walk down memory lane, it’s a reminder that without you, nothing is ever the same. No tears, no verse, can ever say, how much we love and miss you every day.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Regina, daughter Keeva, son Aaron, his mother Florence, sisters Patricia and Anita, brothers Declan, Francis, Seamus and Padraig and all their extended families.

Anniversary Mass for Kevin in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh on Saturday, May 25th at 8pm.

GRIFFIN

www.brianmurraystone.com

HAWTHORNE

Marie

professionalism and dignity and to the gravediggers for preparing Marie’s nal resting place with such care and dedication.

We would also like to thank the Abbey Hotel and sta for the beautiful refreshments.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

God looked around His garden and found an empty place, He then looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest, God’s garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on Earth again. He saw the road was getting rough,

So He closed your wear eyelids and whispered

It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone for part of us went with you the day God called you home.

Remembered always by all her family and friends. Second Anniversary Mass for Bridget will take place in Bundoran, Co. Donegal on Saturday, 25th May at 7pm.

Michael

Curragh, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway (2nd Anniversary)

Who passed away on 27th May, 2022

You always had a smile to share, time to give and time to care, a loving nature, a heart of gold, those are the memories, we will always hold. Sadly missed by brother, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy on Saturday, 25th May at 7pm.

We sat beside your bedside, our hearts were crushed and sore, we did our duty to the end, ‘til we could do no more. In tears we watched you sinking, we watched you fade away, and though our hearts were breaking, we knew you could not stay. You left behind some aching hearts, that loved you most sincere, we never shall and never will, forget you, Mother dear.

From her loving children Gerry, Francis, Mark, Niall and Karen.

Anniversary Mass for Marie will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Saturday, 25th May at 8pm.

COMPTON

Bernie

Cloonacagh Strokestown

In loving memory of Bernie whose 3rd anniversary occurs on May 29th. (3rd Anniversary)

Right now I’m in a different place and though we seem apart I’m closer than I ever was, I’m there inside your heart.

I’m with you when you greet each day and while the sun shines bright, I’m there to share the sunsets, too I’m with you every night.

I’m with you when the times are good, to share a laugh or two, and if a tear should start to fall I’ll still be there for you.

And when that day arrives that we no longer are apart, I’ll smile and hold you close to me, forever in my heart.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by William, Ingrid, Ian, Emily and Sadie.

Anniversary Mass will be held in Church of the Immaculate Conception, Strokestown on Sunday, May 26th at 11.30am.

Submit your Classified online

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SMYTH

Leo Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Leo, who passed away on 25th May, 2023

I’M FREE

Don’t grieve for me now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I found that peace at close of day.

If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy, A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah, yes these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I’ve savoured much, good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief, lift up your hearts and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.

Loved and sadly missed by your daughters Sandra and Lisa. xxx

----------------------- oOo -----------------------

Sincere thanks to Roscommon Hospice for their professional care of Daddy in his nal days and treating him with dignity and compassion.

KELLY

Joseph (Joe)

Killastaliff, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather who died 27th May, 2022

In our hearts you will always stay. Loved and remembered every day. Happy memories we will always treasure. They will stay with us forever.

Always remembered and sadly missed by his wife Vera, and sons Seamus, Tony, Joseph and Andrew, daughters Orla, Grace and Eimear, grandchildren and extended families and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 26th May at 10.30am in Kilglass Church.

QUINN

Mary

Marnellsgrove, Ballymoe and Lisroyan Lodge, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Mary who passed away on the 23rd May, 2006

R.I.P (18th Anniversary)

HANLEY

Audrey (nee Kenny)

Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away on 23rd May 2015 (9th Anniversary)

McLOUGHLIN

Patrick

Boyle and Dublin (30th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Patrick, who passed away on 22nd May 1994. Time may pass and fade away, but silent thoughts and memories stay. Remembered always by Eileen, family and friends. ----------- oOo -----------

Also remembering his son, Tomás, who passed away in December 2006.

MacGUIGAN

John M.V. and Mary ‘Letteree’, Sleaveen, Roscommon

In loving memory of our parents John M.V. MacGuigan and Mary MacGuigan who passed away 23rd January 2019 and 25th May 2019. (5th Anniversary)

On her gentle soul

Sweet Jesus have mercy. Time may pass and fade away, but fond memories of you will always stay.

Always remembered by your ever-loving husband Michael and family.

BEADES

(née Hynes)

Peggy Rahara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away on 22nd May, 2022 Rest In Peace (2nd Anniversary)

We do not need a special day to bring you to our minds. The days we do not think of you are very hard to find. Our thgoughts are always with you, your place no-one can fill. In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Peggy’s Second Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 26th May at 10am in Rahara Church.

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here Lovingly remembered by your Kenny family.

CARTER

Patricia

Milford, Creggs

In loving memory of Patricia who passed away on the 24th of May, 2019 (5th Anniversary)

Out of our lives you may be gone, but in our hearts you will always belong.

Sadly missed by your husband Noel, daughters and granddaughter Ruby, and all your family, friends and neighbours. Mass o ered.

Don’t remember them with sadness, don’t remember them with tears, remember all the laughter, you shared throughout the years. So please dont be unhappy, because they are out of sight, remember they are with you, each morning, noon and night.

Lovingly remembered by Ruth, Mark, John, Jessica and their granddaughters

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

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.

John M.V. Mary

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

CONNELLY (Champ)

Michael Kilmacrickard, Glinsk, Co. Galway (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael who died the 25th of May 2018

R.I.P.

In God’s care you rest above, in our hearts you rest with love. Time passes, memories stay, quietly remembered everyday.

Until we meet again

Loved and sadly missed by Rita and family.

Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam

Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 9th of June in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk at 10am.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

your

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

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where our Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. N.J.D.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where our Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. C.S.

PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH OF CUPERTINO FOR SUCCESS IN EXAMINATIONS

O Great St. Joseph of Cupertino who while on earth did obtain from God the grace to be asked at your examination only the questions you knew. Obtain for me a like favor in the examinations for which I am now preparing. In return I promise to make you known and cause you to be invoked. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. E.M.

SportExtra

On the Pitch

• Grave Maintenance Service

Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723

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

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

On Monday evening, two of our three boys U-14 sides were in league action. A depleted Town 1 team lost in Lecarrow while our young Town 3 side scored four goals but CP Ajax took the three points on offer.

On Tuesday, our boys U-12 teams commenced their league campaigns. There was a double header at home as Town 2 welcomed Castlerea while Town 3 hosted St Cuan’s and the Town 1 team were in Ballaghaderreen.

On Wednesday, the girls U-16 team were in Kilkerrin while the girls U-12 team were at home to Shiven.

Our two U-16 boys teams have games today (Thursday). Town 1 are in Castlerea while Town 2 welcome Cloonfad.

On Friday, all six of our boys U-11 teams have matches. Matches also continue for our boys and girls U-7 and U-9 teams this weekend.

Skill Zone – Heading

Remember… eyes open, mouth closed, attack the ball, power from the neck.

Well done

Well done to Jonathan Greene and Samuel Godfrey who were part of the RDYSL squad who won the SFAI Inter League Trophy last weekend.

Women’s Social Soccer

An invitation to our female members to participate in the Women’s Social Soccer programme: it takes place every Monday evening at 7 pm in Roscommon Community Sports Park.

Contact Tina (0877606790) or Atila (0872829286) for more details. Fitness. Fun. Friendship. Football.

Wise Words

‘You can’t go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are and change the ending’ – C.S.

Lewis

Coach Corner

Name: Hollie Thorpe

Role: U-9 and U-12 girls coach

Favourite Team: Manchester United

Favourite Player: Messi

Best stadium you have visited: Camp Nou Best game you have seen: The 2022 World Cup Final Best player of all time: Messi

Favourite Film: Bend it like Beckham

Favourite Song: Our Song (Taylor Swift)

Favourite Food: Pasta Best place in the world: Spain

Person you admire the most: My soccer coach

Why I got involved: I love soccer

Coaching Philosophy: Making sure the kids have fun

Advice I would give to others: Don’t play to win. Play for fun

Motto for Life: Don’t sweat on the small stuff in life

The Roscommon Town Boys U-9 Europa League 1 team pictured with their coaches recently.

The Roscommon Town Boys U-9 Europa League 2 team pictured recently.

Sports PEOPLE

Third time lucky for young hurlers?

All-Ireland U-20 Hurling Championship

B final:

Roscommon v Down in Croke Park on Saturday at 3 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s young hurlers meet Down in this year’s All-Ireland U-20 hurling B final at Croke Park this Saturday. It’s yet another appearance in the final for the Rossies, who were actually defeated by Down in the decider two years ago. Roscommon also reached last year’s final, losing to Derry on that occasion.

With Roscommon’s senior footballers playing later on in the afternoon at Croke Park, it will be an entertaining and attractive double bill for Roscommon GAA followers.

Kevin Sammon, the Roscommon senior hurling manager, is also over this U-20 team. Speaking to the Roscommon People, he spoke of his sense of anticipation ahead of his team’s big date with Down.

“We are thrilled to be playing in Croke Park. It’s great for everyone involved… management, players, and the supporters. It’s every hurler’s dream to have a day out in Croke Park and we are really looking for-

GAA results

Connacht MFC Semi-Final

Roscommon 3-5 Galway 0-7

Nicky Rackard Cup

Roscommon 1-19 Mayo 2-16

GAA fixtures

Friday, May 24th

Connacht MFC Final

At Dr Hyde Park: Roscommon v Mayo. 7.30 pm

Saturday, May 25th

All-Ireland U-20 B Hurling Final

At Croke Park: Roscommon v Down. 3 pm

All-Ireland SFC (Round One)

At Croke Park: Roscommon v Dublin. 5 pm

ward to it. We have a full squad that’s fit and rearing to go”.

The manager says that Down will be formidable opponents. “Any team who gets through to the final deserve to be there so we know it will be a tough game”.

Kevin says that it will be a great day for all Roscommon GAA supporters.

“It’s fantastic to have a double header for Roscommon. Hopefully the Rossies will get in there early and support the hurlers.

“We had good wins against Mayo and Sligo and we want to keep that momentum for this weekend”.

Roscommon will be looking to their senior stars to lead them in the final and guys like Liam Og Coyle, Sean Canning, Paddy Fallon, Michael Hussey and James Dillon will surely have huge roles to play.

Roscommon may have lost the last two national finals in this competition but there is a feeling that this time around it could be third time lucky. A win for the Roscommon hurlers would certainly get the day off to a perfect start for the Rossies in Croker.

Prediction: Roscommon.

Lots of football and hurling action this weekend

Championship Watch Seamus Duke

It has to be said that the opening matches in the All-Ireland SFC round robin groups were underwhelming to say the least – with the exception of the great win for Galway against Derry. The crowds have been small and the excitement has been in short supply, with some very predictable results. This weekend, Armagh, smarting from their loss

on penalties to Donegal in the Ulster final, should be good enough to beat Westmeath at the Athletic Grounds.

The Roscommon v Dublin match is previewed elsewhere in this issue. Game of the weekend on paper at this juncture is the Donegal v Tyrone clash. I am not ruling out Tyrone –who are a formidable side if they are at their best –

but Donegal, with home advantage, should be good enough to win it by a couple of points.

There won’t be any love lost between Meath and Louth in Inniskeen, and the neutral venue might cost Louth. It would be a very big win for either side. Meath might well spring a surprise.

Once again the hurling championship has been fantastic this year. The groups in Munster and Leinster will be decided after Sunday’s games.

In Leinster, Galway have

to beat Dublin and they should edge that match, but it will not be easy. Antrim and Carlow looks a toss-up while the game of the weekend in Leinster will be between Wexford and Kilkenny. The Cats have to be favourites, but inconsistent Wexford are capable of anything.

In Munster, one suspects that Limerick will re-assert their superiority with a win against Waterford, while in the other game Tipperary are out of contention which should make the task a bit easier for Clare.

Roscommon’s Stephen Tighe pictured with his aunt Lisa Cosgrove after last Friday’s victory over Galway in the Connacht MFC semi- nal in Tuam Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The hand of friendship after the battle! Mayo’s Kenny Feeney consoles Roscommon’s Conor Mulry after Roscommon were narrowly knocked out of the Nicky Rackard Cup last Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Reflections on Monday’s meeting in Roscommon

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

The first race at Roscommon on Monday went to Alto Sax trained by Ger Lyons and ridden by Gary Carroll who beat Zenato and the favourite Royalcorrespondent by 1¾l and ¾l.

The punters got it right in the EBF Auction Series Maiden for 2Y-Os as Deo Vero, backed from 6/1 morning price to 7/2, got the better of Green Triangle and Boyne Valley by ½l and 4½l. The favourite, George Zhukov, finished down the field at 3/1.

The Thomas Coyle-trained Derwent River won the 7f handicap at 16/1 (ridden by James Ryan) by 2½l and a head from Breezy Zoff (12/1) and Calamint (13/2). Gavin Cromwell’s Total Look won the JWT Distribution Maiden from Itsonlyjustbegun and Wootonpassit.

The Abbey Hotel Handicap went to the Ger O’Leary-trained Sea Eagle ridden by Jack Cleary at 6/1. In the penultimate handicap Sixpack gained revenge on Jabbar for his defeat here a week ago. Ameerat Jumaria divided the pair finishing 1¾l behind the winner with Jabbar a neck further back.

In the final race the Jarlath Fahey-trained Granite Bay beat the favourite Solar Drive and Don’t Do Dramas by 1l and 1¼l. The next meeting, a national hunt meeting, is on the 10th June and features the Connaught National Handicap Chase.

This weekend’s action

The week’s Irish racing starts this evening (Thursday) with a national hunt card at Limerick off at 5.25 pm. There are two evening meetings tomorrow (Friday) jump racing at Downpatrick at 5.05 pm and the Curragh have the first day of their three-day Guineas meeting on the flat, featuring the €100,000 QuinnBet Emerald Mile starting at 4.45 pm.

Racing on Saturday features the 2000 Guineas away for the first at 1.20 pm and on Sunday there are two Group 1 races on the card,

The Gold Cup and the 1000 Guineas at 1.25 pm. Ballinrobe race on Monday at 4.30 pm and Tuesday.

ITV coverage this week starts Saturday with 5 flat races from Haydock, 2 each from Goodwood and York and the 2000 Guineas from the Curragh. Over the weekend RTE 1 covers the Tattersalls Gold Cup and 1000 Guineas, both Group 1 races, and the Group 2 Lanwades Stud Stakes.

Today’s card at Catterick is subject to a morning inspection and Saturday’s card at Haydock is being monitored.

Curragh Preview

The 2000 Guineas takes place on Saturday with 11 runners going to post, with 6, over half the field, trained by Aidan O’Brien, who is looking for his (lucky for some) 13th success in the race. The pick looks to be Henry Longfellow, who finished down the field in the French equivalent, and he has Richard Hannon’s raider Rosallion, 2nd in Newmarket, evens favourite to beat. But a word of warning – Rosallion’s only defeat came on soft ground. Hannon also runs Haatem.

On Sunday, 15 run in the fillies race, a much more open event. O’Brien supplies the favourite, Opera Hat, who meets son Donnacha’s Porta Fortuna, 2nd in Newmarket, and Willie McCreery’s Vespertilio. All 3 dispute the betting. Karl Burke’s Fallen Angel, who finished 8th in Newmarket, is the best of the British raiders. One that catches the eye is Paddy Twomey’s Purple Lily, unlucky last time out in Navan. He also runs A Lilac Rolla, who is unbeaten. In the other Group 1 race (the Tattersalls Gold Cup) there are 11 runners and the betting is headed by Augustine Rodan from Coolmore and if he has fully recovered from his travels to Meydan, he should win.

Racing News

Tony Martin was unsuccessful in his request for a judicial review

St Nathy’s are FAI U-15

Connacht Champions

FAI Connacht U-15 Schools Division Two girls final

St Nathy’s, Ballaghaderreen 1 Calasanctius College, Oranmore 1 (St Nathy’s won 3-1 on penalties)

St Nathy’s, Ballaghaderreen took on Oranmore School, Calasanctius College, in the FAI U-15 Connacht girls Division

Two final last Friday at the Athlone Town stadium.

It was a tight game throughout with both teams playing great football, and even though the Ballaghaderreen girls went in at half-time 1-0 down, they never gave up.

The second half was just as close as the first. St Nathy’s equalised, bringing the game to extra-time and, subsequently, a penalty shoot-out.

Three big saves from the Ballaghaderreen goalkeeper Maebh Lavin helped them to a 3-1 win in the shoot-out, ensuring St Nathy’s became Connacht champions in the process!

in his appeal against a 3-month suspension. He will by now suspended until mid-August, missing the Galway Festival, where he has a highly successful record over the years.

Competition Corner

This week there’s a second chance for tickets for Kilbeggan on the 2nd of June. To be in with a chance of winning, please tell us who won the Irish National Hunt trainer’s title this year?

Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@gmail.com by 5 pm on Wednesday, 29th of May and don’t forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Total Look (left) gets the better of It’sonlyjustbegun at Roscommon Races on Monday.

The St Nathy’s, Ballaghaderreen girls squad pictured with the trophy and their coaches Gary Creaton (left) and Michael Nealon (right) after they won the FAI Connacht U-15 Schools girls nal, defeating Calasanctius College, Oranmore 3-1 on penalties. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Dom Coll (right), secretary of the Connacht FAI schools branch presents the trophy to Ballaghaderreen’s joint captains Meabh Lavin (left) and Siofra Haran (centre) after they won the FAI Connacht U-15 Schools girls nal, defeating Calasanctius College, Oranmore 3-1 on penalties. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs girls help Connacht to Interpro 7s title

Congratulations to the Connacht U-18 girls who won the Interpro 7s on Saturday, defeating Leinster in a thrilling final that went to sudden death.

Having won the 15-a-side Interpro series recently this was the double which Connacht have never done before.

Well done to the Creggs girls involved – Shauna Walsh, Sarah Purcell, Siofra Hession, Merisa Kiripati and especially Jemima Adams Verling, who won the game with the first score in sudden death during the final.

What a great season to win both the 15s and 7s Interpros, making history in the process.

Well done also to our U-16 girls also who played for Connacht in their competition: Ciara Corrigan, Olivia Kelly, Emily Kelly and Mia White.

Connacht Boys U-17s Development: Well done to Kaylum Curran, Cian Kiernan, Cian Trimble, Dan Kelly and Daniel Fleming who were part of the Connacht U17s squad who played in the IRFU high performance centre in Dublin on Sunday. They have been part of this squad this season and have spent the last two weeks fine-tuning their skills having played at the Dexcom Stadium last week and now in Dublin. Good luck to these boys in the new season.

Lotto: Our lotto jackpot was not won and now moves to €13,500. The lucky dip winner was Martin Murray. For your chance to win the jackpot go to www.creggsrugby.ie.

Buccaneers AGM this Friday

The Annual General Meeting of Buccaneers Rugby Football Club will take place in The Lower Deck at The Bounty on this Friday, May 24th, at 7.30 pm. Only paid-up members may vote.

Summer Skills Sessions: Buccaneers’ ‘Summer skills sessions’ commenced on Saturday last and will continue throughout the summer.

This is an ideal FREE facility for girls and boys from U-13 to U-17 to maintain and indeed improve their rugby skills. The sessions take place at Dubarry Park from 11 am to 12.15 pm. Youths Awards: Buccaneers Youths Awards took place at the club with the Boys and Girls Players of the Year being honoured while presentations were made to the most improved player on each team.

Presentations were also made to Charlie O’Carroll and Jack Pollard in recognition of their selection on the Ireland U-18 Clubs team.

Golf Classic: Wednesday, July 17th is the date for Buccaneers RFC’s annual Golf Classic which takes place at the panoramic Glasson Lakehouse course. Teams of four players with the best two scores to count on each hole. 50/50 Draw now online: You can

now participate in Buccaneers’ weekly 50/50 Draw online. It costs just €2 to enter and the draw, in which half the funds go to the winner, with the other half going to the club. The draw takes place on Tuesdays. Buccs’ Summer Camp: Buccaneers Rugby Summer Camp will take place from 12th to 16th August from 9.30 am to 12 noon daily. Learn to play rugby in a fun, safe environment. Free club boot bag and hat. €70 for first

BOYLE

The draw for the King Harmon matchplay competition has now been made and, for the first time in several years, it is back to its traditional format of straight knockout one-on-one matches from start to finish.

Well done to Michael Simon’s Senior Golf team who had a great win against Sligo Golf Club in the Interclub Cup during the week. The win means that they secured the overall result for Boyle and progress to round two.

Boyle’s next interclub matches will be the Seniors team in round two of the Fred Perry Cup and the Mixed Foursomes team in their first round in mid-June.

The weekend’s competition for the men is the Bart Moran Cup. The men’s Thursday evening competition continues as a 12-hole Stableford.

The ladies ‘Get into Golf’ groups continue from 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm for the next few Wednesdays and Junior Golf is ongoing with a slightly extended time of 10.30 am to 12 pm for the next few Saturdays.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

The Carrick-on-Shannon Club Classic 2024 takes place over the June Bank Holiday weekend, May 31st to June 3rd. It is an important fundraiser to help maintain and invest in the club. Entry for a four-person team is €200 (this includes a meal) and there are lots of ways to win such as longest drive, closest to the pin, yellow ball competition, etc.

Congratulations to Phil McWeeney who won last weekend’s ladies club competition with a score of 39 pts. In the gents Curamach Strings Open Stableford competition, the first competition in the O.B.N. series, Marc McDermott won with a score of 39 pts.

The Carrick-on-Shannon ladies golf team were narrowly beaten by Sligo Golf Club in last weekend’s Ladies Minor Foursomes competition.

In the Pierce Purcell Cup, the gents team were narrowly beaten in the first round by Strokestown Golf Club.

The Carrick-on-Shannon Junior Cup Team were victorious over Enniscrone in the Junior Cup last weekend and now move on to play Castlebar in the next round.

There will be two registration and information evenings for the parents of the junior golfers – on Monday the 27th and Thursday the 30th of May (7 pm each night) in the clubhouse. Junior lessons start on Monday, 10th of June.

ROSCOMMON

There was a great entry to the Roscommon Golf Club Lidan Designssponsored Senior and Junior Scratch Cups last weekend. Well done to the senior winner Cian O’Connor with 67 pts and the junior winner John McHale (with 74 pts).

Congratulations to Teresa Duignan from Carrick-on-Shannon who won the Ladies Gala Day competition recently with 36 pts.

In the ladies club competition, sponsored by the Curtain Centre, Clare Keane was the winner with a score of 41 pts.

This weekend, Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May, Roscommon Golf Club will host the Connacht finals of the Barton Shield/Senior Foursomes.

The Creggs boys who were part of the Connacht Boys U-17s Development squad recently: Kaylum Curran, Cian Kiernan, Cian Trimble, Dan Kelly and Daniel Fleming.

Creggs girls Jemima Adams Verling, Siofra Hession, Shauna Walsh, Sarah Purcell and Merisa Kiripati, all of whom featured for the Connacht U-18s squad during their Interpro 7s tournament victory recently.

Buccaneers RFC President Brendan Wilkins (right) makes a presentation to Charlie O’Carroll (centre) in recognition of his appearance for the Ireland U-18 Clubs team. Also pictured is Sam Fogarty (left).

‘I’m so proud of the lads’ –Sammon

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Roscommon manager Kevin Sammon was understandably very disappointed when he reflected on the draw after the game. “Look it’s a sickener to be denied a place in the final on scoring difference, especially when we had a few chances to win it late on.

“But I am so proud of the lads out there today. We asked them to give everything today and they did that. But it’s hard to take”. He says that there has been a big improvement this year. “Roscommon hurling has improved. Last year you were fighting relegation and this year you are within a puck of an All-Ireland final. Hopefully we can build on that for next year”.

The manager said that the players who played and those that came on were in the team on merit.

“We based our team on how players were going in training. Today was all about our senior team. Now that it’s over we can focus on the U-20 All-Ireland final”.

Reflecting on his first year in charge, the Clare man says he has really enjoyed it. “It’s been an extremely enjoyable year. I loved every bit of it. It’s been a great experience for us. For some of us it’s been our first time involved with a county senior team and we have really enjoyed our time this year” he concluded.

Pipped at the post… hurlers just miss out on Rackard Cup Final

Nicky Rackard Cup

Roscommon 1-19 Mayo 2-16

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The Roscommon senior hurlers came within a puck of the ball of reaching the Nicky Rackard Cup final after they staged a dramatic late surge in this thrilling final round game played in perfect weather conditions at Dr Hyde Park last Saturday.

Pre-match favourites Mayo held an eightpoint lead (2-13 to 0-11) by the 47th minute and looked set for a comfortable victory. But in the remaining time Roscommon outscored their neighbours by 1-8 to 0-3 to draw level.

The home side actually missed a number of clear scoring chances from placed balls to win it late on.

It was Roscommon’s best performance of the season but it ended with Kevin Sammon’s men missing out in tantalising fashion on a place in the final against Donegal.

Mayo had the slight edge in the opening half and, with their full-forward Cormac Phillips very sharp from frees and play, they edged ahead of the home side.

The crucial score of the half came in the 30th minute when Sean Regan converted a penalty after he was upended by Roscommon goalkeeper Enda Lawless, who subsequently received a black card. That gave Mayo a 1-10 to 0-9 half-time lead.

Roscommon were resilient, and with Conor Cosgrove, James Hardiman and Brendan Mulry playing well, it was always a competitive match.

Cian Murray knocked over two fine points on the restart, but when Phillips scored a superb Mayo goal in the 47th minute, following a long ball from Conal Hession, Roscommon looked to be in trouble as they were now eight points behind. But the home side dug deep and played their best hurling after that.

Sub Sean Canning was doing well for Kevin Sammon’s side and Brendan Mulry found his range too. In the 56th minute Four Roads’ Mulry struck a brilliant individual goal and Roscommon were back to within three points.

Then, with 11 minutes to go, points from Canning, Hardiman and Robbie Fallon (free) saw the margin down to just one (2-14 to 1-16).

Mayo responded with points from Sean Regan and Cormac Phillips, but Roscommon had the momentum and they looked the likely winners as the game neared its conclusion.

James Hardiman (free) and Sean Canning pointed to reduce the margin to the minimum inside the final minute. In the final five minutes of play Roscommon were wide with a couple of frees that cost them very dearly in the final analysis.

In injury-time, Conor Mulry lofted over the equalising point but the home team needed one more score, which never came, meaning Mayo qualified for the final as they had a better scoring difference than Roscommon. It was a cruel way to be denied a trip to face Donegal in the final in Croke Park but the management and players can look back on a very satisfactory championship campaign overall. The defeat against Donegal was the only major slip-up.

Enda Lawless, Conor Cosgrove, James Hardiman, Brendan Mulry and substitute Sean Canning were excellent for Roscommon but with ace free-taker Paddy Fallon an unused sub, the management will reflect on what might have happened if the Oran marksman was on the field to take those late frees.

As it is, all is not lost and Roscommon face Down in the U-20 All-Ireland B final in Croke Park this Saturday.

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Mark Ward, James Dillon, Darragh Mullen; Matthew Comerford, Conor Cosgrove (0-2), James Hardiman (0-3, 2 frees); Darragh Finn, Jack Dowling (0-1); Cian Murray (0-2), Conor Mulry (0-2), Adam Donnelly (0-1); Jack Donnelly, Robbie Fallon (0-3, 3 frees), Brendan Mulry (1-3). Subs: Brendan Quinn for Dowling (30), Jack Dowling for J Donnelly (35 +2), Enda Lawless for Quinn (h/t), Sean Canning (0-2) for Comerford, Liam Óg Coyle for Murray (53), Cormac Mulry for R Fallon (67).

Mayo: Bobby Douglas; Luke Connor, Oisin Greally, Conor Murray; Conal Hession, David Kenny, Eoghan Collins; Sean Kenny, John Hearty (0-2); Sean Regan (1-2, 1-0 pen), Adrian Phillips, Liam Lavin; Shane Boland (0-4, 1 free), Cormac Phillips (1-6, 3 ‘65s, 2 frees), Eoin Delaney (0-2). Subs: Daniel Huane for Kenny (h/t), Matthew Connor for Connor (43), Michael Farrell for Delaney (53), Evan Heraty for Phillips (66), Kenny Feeney for J Heraty (70).

Referee: Aidan McAleer (Donegal). Man of the Match: Cormac Phillips (Mayo).

The Roscommon senior hurling panel pictured ahead of last Saturday’s Nicky Rackard Cup match between Roscommon and Mayo at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Minors face Mayo in Connacht final after great win over Galway

Electric Ireland Connacht MFC Semi-Final Roscommon 3-5 Galway 0-7

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Two goals in a two-minute spell just before the half-time break set up Roscommon minors for a well deserved win against Galway in Tuam last Friday night.

This very important win means that Roscommon will now face Mayo in the Connacht final in Dr Hyde Park this Friday night at 7 pm, and it also means that they will play in the All-Ireland quarter-finals regardless of the result of the provincial decider.

On a night of perfect weather conditions, the game was very low-key for most of the first half, with both defences on top. But it sparked into life in the three minutes before the break.

In the 27th minute Roscommon’s Eoin Collins won a breaking ball in the middle of the field and then combined beautifully with Declan Kennedy before firing home a great goal to put Roscommon ahead by two points, 1-3 to 0-4. There was better to come two minutes later when Dara Curran won a great turnover in the right corner, and after a one-two with Dean

Casey, he blasted the ball into the net, meaning that at half-time Roscommon led by 2-3 to 0-4. The Roscommon

defence was outstanding in the third quarter of the game. With goalkeeper Patrick Gaynor making a number of excellent saves,

Galway could make no inroads into Roscommon’s lead.

The victory for James Duignan’s side was sealed

in the 50th minute when Curran played a peach of a pass into the path of Dean Casey who finished well.

Patrick Gaynor, Liam

Finneran, Colin Murray, Eoin Collins, Joe McKeon, Dara Curran and Dean Casey were superb on the night for Roscommon. All eyes now turn to the Connacht final and a clash with unbeaten Mayo at Dr Hyde Park.

A delighted Roscommon manager James Duignan said afterwards: “We’re in the Connacht final, but that gets us into the All-Ireland series too. These lads will develop no end playing against top teams. “We know what’s ahead of us next Friday evening. What’s coming down the track will be very tough, but I’m delighted for the players. They came to Tuam this evening and their work over the last six months was rewarded. They deserve to be in the final” he said.

Roscommon: Patrick Gaynor; Liam Finneran, Gordon Casey, Colin Murray; Eoin Collins (1-0), Keelan Kelly, Declan Kennedy; Darragh Devaney, Cathal Enright; Joe McKeon (0-1), Dara Curran (1-2, one free), Alan Conroy; Stephen Tighe (0-1), Shane McGuinness, Dean Casey (1-1). Subs used: Sean McDonnell for McGuinness (40 mins), Anthony Cox for Murray (47 mins), Sam Malec-Hannon for McKeon (52 mins), Jeffrey Oates for Conroy (57 mins), Martin Connaughton for Finneran (57 mins).

The Roscommon minor panel pictured ahead of last Friday’s Connacht MFC semi-final against Galway in Tuam Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon’s Liam Finneran and Galway’s Killian Joyce in action during their Connacht MFC semi-final match in Tuam Stadium last Friday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Refreshed Rossies face daunting Dubs!

crowd in relative terms.

All-Ireland SFC (Group 2, Round 1): Roscommon v Dublin in Croke Park on Saturday at 5 pm

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There is a very strange build-up to this weekend’s game between Roscommon and Dublin. Usually, the prospect of a trip to Croke Park to face the All-Ireland champions would generate huge interest in the county, but the approach is very muted this week.

The new format for the championship has not resonated greatly with the public. The crowds at matches played last weekend were very mediocre, with very little excitement (with the exception of the Galway v Derry game). If there is around 15,000 people in Croke Park this Saturday it will constitute a big

But such musings are for another forum. It’s game on, and Roscommon manager Davy Burke is bringing his team back to HQ, where 12 months ago they drew with Dublin at the same stage of the competition.

That was a highly impressive result last season, but the form lines so far this year would suggest that a similar share of the spoils (or a win) for the Rossies is unlikely this time around.

There are a few positives for Roscommon as they look to this opening game in the round robin stages. Since that loss to Mayo in the Connacht Championship, the players have had five weeks to prepare for the group stages. There are a number of players back to full fitness. Also, Roscommon will be going into this match under the radar, with little expectation, certainly

nationally, as to their prospects. That’s always a good thing.

Dublin were not great against Louth in the Leinster final, but having said that, they never looked like they were going to lose either. They seem to be doing just enough to progress, but one suspects that they are looking to peak by the quarterfinals.

Suffice to say that Brian Fenton and Con O’Callaghan remain Dublin’s main men. When those two play well, Dublin win.

While the Roscommon team will be along expected lines, it will be interesting to see if Davy Burke and his selectors opt to give U-20 star Shane McGinley some game time.

I think I speak for the vast majority of Roscommon supporters when I say that a priority for us is to see Burke’s men having a real go at Dublin on Saturday. If they

do so and lose, then so be it. But the negative football that we have seen in a lot of games this year will certainly not suffice.

We have excellent attackers like Enda Smith, Donie Smith, Daire Cregg, Diarmuid Murtagh, Ben O’Carroll and Conor Cox, and even new recruit Shane McGinley. We need to be a bit more direct and try to get more ball to those forwards.

Mayo are coming to town the following weekend and a good performance this Saturday will give the Roscommon team some momentum for that big game.

It would be stretching it to anticipate a Roscommon win in Croker but I am expecting a good performance, one that would send Burke’s players and supporters into the following weekend’s game in a positive and confident mindset. Prediction: Dublin.

Roscommon’s Diarmuid Murtagh in action against Dublin’s Con O’Callaghan when the teams faced each other this time last year in the opening round of the All-Ireland series. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sports le

‘We are going up to Dublin to win’

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Roscommon manager Davy Burke is under far more pressure in his second year in the position – for a number of reasons.

The ‘bounce’ that every manager tends to experience in their first year has gone. Now, after relegation to Division Two and a disappointing defeat to Mayo in the Connacht semi-final, the Kildare native needs a positive campaign in

the All-Ireland series and will be hoping to steer his charges to a quarter-final place at least.

Dublin, Mayo and Cavan lie in wait for the Rossies, with the current All-Ireland champions first up this weekend.

Chatting to People Sport recently, Burke began by assessing the state of play within the Roscommon camp since that Mayo defeat.

“Things have gone well

– Burke

since the Mayo game. We took seven or eight days off and I think that break was very beneficial… the lads came back really keen and we have a very good month of work done since – and I have been happy with that”.

There have been a couple of additions to the panel since the Roscommon U-20 side’s campaign ended at the All-Ireland semifinal stage.

“Shane McGinley has been brought into the panel and Senan Lambe is back with us too – but he was on the panel earlier in the year.

“In terms of injuries, we are very close to having a full clean sheet for the campaign. Davy Murray and Ultan Harney were injured but both have made great progress and will be available for game time against Dublin”.

The quick turnaround between games is something that the Roscommon

manager has been thinking about, with Burke noting that Mayo come to Hyde Park a week on from this weekend’s Dublin challenge.

“We have to try and ensure that we keep things fresh for that game as well as (for) Croke Park, so we have a bit of thinking to do on that score”.

Last year, Roscommon surprised most observers by drawing with Dublin. What is the manager’s level of ambition on this occasion?

“We fully believe that we can put it up to the Dubs. We believe we are a top tier team and our approach is that we will be going to Croke Park to win. We will have a very strong squad travelling up there and I am convinced that when we get our best team on the field we are as good as any of them, so we will have no fear going up there”.

be taking a leaf out of their book in terms of his tactics this weekend.

Burke admits that every game now is a big one.

“Yes it’s intense now. All the games are big ones. Dublin in Croke Park, followed by a match against our big rivals Mayo… we did a lot right against Mayo when we played in the championship but we have a chance to put that result right and the match against Cavan will be very intense too. So look, it will be a very tough month ahead but we are looking forward to it”.

Finally, Burke says that Roscommon are relishing this latest glamour fixture against Dublin as their campaign opener.

“We have all played in Croke Park a number of times so there is no fear there (on that front). We are going up to Dublin to win and get two points on the board and start the round robin campaign with a victory” he concluded.

“I’m not so sure about that to be honest. I don’t see a lot of the top teams setting up the way Louth did. It was death by a thousand cuts; they had 15 men in their own half before the opposition goalkeeper even kicked out the ball. I don’t think the Roscommon people or the Roscommon players would enjoy that sort of carry on”.

Roscommon manager Davy Burke and Dublin manager Dessie Farrell shaking hands on the sideline when the teams faced each other this time last year in the opening round of the All-Ireland series. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sports le

Roscommon manager Davy Burke has strongly hinted that his team will not adopt an all-out defensive approach when facing the daunting Dubs this Saturday. Louth gave Dublin a stern test in the recent Leinster nal, but Burke has indicated that he won’t