26 April 2024 Roscommon People

her brother

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CROSS-BORDER HEALTH CARE

I am on a waiting list for surgery. I have been on this waiting list for months and I am fed up with the delay. I believe that I may avail of this treatment abroad and may be refunded the cost by the HSE. Is this correct?

Please advise me. Does this scheme apply to all HSE services?

The HSE operates a Cross-Border Healthcare Directive for people entitled to public patient healthcare in Ireland who want to avail of that healthcare in another European Union member state (including Northern Ireland).

Therefore, if you are entitled to public health services in Ireland, you may opt to access those services in another European Union member state, and be repaid the cost if you meet the requirements. Prior HSE authorisation is required in a number of circumstances.

The amount that will be repaid is the amount that the treatment would cost in Ireland, or the cost of your treatment abroad, if that is less. It does not include other costs such as travel.

Funding will only be reimbursed for healthcare that is publicly funded and available in Ireland but the referral may be to a public or private health service in the other country. You must pay for the cost of treatment and then apply for a refund when you return to Ireland.

In order to receive the treatment you must firstly receive a referral letter from your GP, HSE orthodontist etc. The referral letter should specify the healthcare required, the health professional abroad you are being referred to and their clinic or hospital.

Examples of healthcare that is available under the scheme include:

• Day, in-patient and out-patient care in acute hospital services, including psychiatric services

• Community-based out-patient care

• Joint replacement

• Dental and orthodontic services (with some exceptions, such as dental screening services in schools)

• Fertility treatment

• Speech and language services

• Occupational therapy services

• Psychology services

• Physiotherapy services

• Disability services

• Ophthalmic services

• Mental health services

• Addiction care

Well, that was a nightmare!

Huh?

That week we’ve just had!

Okay… I know Roscommon lost to Mayo, but we’re still in the All-Ireland race, and the sun’s out, and…

No! I don’t mean the wider world, I mean the week you and I have had!

US? How so?

My friend, may I remind you that our column was left out last week! An outrage!

Oh that…a left out rage even!

Huh! Point is, there was no column on page two last week. We were dropped! The most ruthless dropping since Alf Ramsey left Jimmy Greaves out of the England World Cup team in 1966!

Well that topical reference will cheer the Editor up! So you’re still upset that our column didn’t appear last week?

UPSET? I’m furious! Like I’ve been predicting for years, he wants to get rid of us! This is the first formal step in that process! WE MUST RESIST!

(They pause to check if there have been any more VAR (Video Assistant Referee) controversies in the Premier League over the previous hour or so)

Point is…

No, I actually agree with you. It’s looking serious for us. Did you get any explanation from the Editor?

Oh he sent me a rambling email, something about being away on a brief holiday, time pressures, space limitations…

SPACE LIMITATIONS? He didn’t use that old chestnut, did he? Surely our waffle, I mean wisdom, should be the first

just trying to rise me. He also mentioned that we had missed the deadline last week!

Missed the deadline? Does he realise the trouble we go to? We hand-wrote last week’s column on 28 beermats, got the pub bore to proof-read it, then the barman typed it on his phone, and we emailed it in at 1.30 am!

Yeah, but we marked it ‘Boyos’ column, down with Joe Brolly’, I think that might have irked the Editor!

(They pause to place a bet on Bambie Thug to win the Eurovision Song Contest)

It upset readers…

Huh?

Our column being left out…

Really?

An old lady stopped me on the street… Kind of heartening…

She said her grandchild was unhappy.

Brilliant! Younger readers! That will impress the Editor.

Well, apparently he likes that caricature of us that appears with the column… he scribbles over it every week!

Huh! You know, we may need some form of VAR to save us…

WHAT? A team of former editors and columnists to review our column?

NO! People power! The readers will campaign to save us! VAR… VERY ANGRY READERS!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Ballaghaderreen FC, who were crowned Roscommon & District League Premier Division champions for the first time in their history

Knockcroghery resident Philip Dolan, who starred in ‘That They May Face The Rising Sun’, which won Best Film at the Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTA); (see pages 14-15)

Hozier, who became the fourth ever Irish artist to reach the US Billboard No 1 for his hit new song, ‘Too Sweet’

It’s been a BAD week for…

Roscommon senior footballers (well, a disappointing one), with defeat to Mayo in the Connacht SFC semi-final

Bambie Thug, whose decision not to boycott Eurovision over Israel’s participation, despite her anti-oppression stance, has drawn criticism from commentators and fellow Irish artists

WEEK: Roscommon fans Darragh, Aoibhín and Chloe McKenna pictured during last Sunday’s Connacht SFC semi- nal between Roscommon and Mayo in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

GRETB to hold Open Fun Day in Lisnamult

The Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board is delighted to invite all-comers to an Open Fun Day in the Lisnamult Further Education and Training centre on Friday, the 3rd of May, at 1 pm.

The Open Day promises to be fun-filled and informative, and follows a similar event hosted by the Ballaghaderreen Family Resource Centre and GRETB, which was attended by over 200 people from the local community there.

The day promises a wide variety of fun activities and groups for all ages, including Music Generation, Roscommon Sports

Call for support as ‘Best Kept Town’ judging begins

As May approaches, bringing with it the crucial adjudication period for the Best Kept Towns Competition 2024, and with Roscommon Town firmly in the running for the prestigious title of Ireland’s ‘Best Kept Large Town’, community involvement has never been more essential.

The Roscommon Tidy Towns Association is calling on all locals to lend a hand in ensuring the town presents well for the judges, stating that “if everyone played their part by cleaning outside their property and cleaned around their houses, estates, shops and businesses it would help us to achieve the title”.

Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, the chairperson of the Roscommon Tidy Towns Association, emphasised the importance of community effort in a recent communication.

“Winning the title of Ireland’s Best

Kept Town would not only be a proud achievement for Roscommon but would also spotlight our community’s dedication to enhancing our living environment,” explained Cllr Shanagher, adding: “It’s a team effort, and every little helps in making a big impact”.

The competition judges towns on aesthetics, cleanliness, and community engagement. This year, the stakes are high and the benefits of winning could greatly enhance the town’s already strong reputation and community pride.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to keep up their cleaning efforts throughout the year, but with a special focus on this coming May. The spirit of cooperation and town pride promises to make Roscommon a strong contender in this year’s competition.

Partnership, Precious Pets Mobile Farm, The Creator Van Mobile Arts and Crafts Studio, and Mega Games Mobile Gaming Suite. Adults and kids can enjoy refreshments from Brewpoint Coffee Company and Nick’s Ices. There will be face-painting, games and treats for younger children as well as parents, and plenty of spot prizes and hampers to be won in the raffle. Staff from a range of local services will be present on the day to help people build connections and spark journeys of personal growth. GRETB Guidance and Information Service will have a stand to provide

info about upcoming courses in centres throughout the county, and tutors from GRETB Community Education will give taster workshops in practical subjects like felting and gardening.

Attendees can also speak with staff from Citizens Information, DEASP, Roscommon Volunteer Centre, Roscommon Leader Partnership, Roscommon County Library, Roscommon Sports Partnership, South Roscommon Family Resource Centre, and Foróige Roscommon Youth Services to learn more about accessing services and entitlements in the local community.

Performers from Síolta Circus entertain the crowds during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

newsbriefs

Roscommon Garden Club meeting

Roscommon Garden Club will hold its next meeting at 8 pm on Monday, April 29th, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. Pat Thornton will give a talk on growing vegetables and dahlias. All are welcome to attend.

Healing Mass in Curraghboy

A Special Family Tree Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, on Monday, April 29th, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome. The eircode is N37W704. For more, contact 086 4054489.

Roscommon Parish Youth Mass

The next Roscommon Parish Youth Mass will be at 7 pm on this Saturday, 27th of April 2024, in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. This Mass has been especially devised for young people, by young people. Everyone is invited to attend. The theme for this Saturday’s Mass is ‘Family’.

Cost of ‘square structure’ confirmed at almost €1.4m

EMMETT CORCORAN



The new architectural addition to The Square in Roscommon Town continues to spark debate among local residents and business owners alike.

The structure, combining timber and concrete, was recently completed at a cost of nearly €1.4 million, as part of the broader Public Realm Enhancement initiative. This project aims to revitalise the town centre and has been met with varying opinions since its introduction.

Designed by Dublin-based GKMP Architects, the installation’s roof is a combination of copper and glazed materials and is intended to serve as a central meeting point within the newly-redesigned square. Additionally, the project has facilitated the restoration and highlighting of a historic well located on the southern end of The Square.

The financial details of the project have been made public through a Freedom of Information request that was submitted by Shannonside FM. The figures reveal that the overall enhancement scheme is set to cost upwards of €6 million upon completion. To date, almost €5.9 million has been spent on the first two phases of the initiative. Roscommon County Council has contributed more than €1.52 million to the funding.

Phase One of the project, which focused primarily on The Square itself, accounted for €4.7 million of the total expenditure. The cost attributed to the newly-constructed covered civic space stands at €1.4 million.

This development is part of an ongoing effort to improve the public spaces in Roscommon town, though it continues to generate discussion regarding its design and the substantial financial investment involved. According to Roscommon County Council, the project’s comple-

tion is anticipated to not only enhance the aesthetic and functional aspects of The Square, but also to invigorate the local community and economy by creating a vibrant communal area.

Despite the positive outlook of the local authority –

Is proud to be the first law firm in Ireland to join the four-day working week

which has been the lead body on the controversial Public Realm Enhancement project – locals have questions about the purpose, utility and appropriateness of the design for the location. In particular, the cost of the project has prompted criticism from some local rate-payers.

The new architectural structure on The Square in Roscommon Town. Pic: Kieran Croghan

The TRUTH is there are 3 keys to a genuine weight loss (real fat loss) plan - diet, exercise and metabolism correction. All 3 keys interconnect, one will not work without the other. Your metabolism is the most powerful of all the 3 keys. It is the ‘switch’ that controls everything else. In most people this ‘switch’ is off.

Metabolism problems like Slow Thyroid, Type 2 Diabetes, Sluggish Liver, Hormone Imbalances, PCOS, Endometriosis, Infertility and Digestive Problems like Constipation, IBS and Diverticulitis will limit or stop your weight loss, no matter how much dieting or exercise you do .

Work on fixing your metabolism problems for amazing results. Combine this with a reasonable diet and exercise and you will get the best, the fastest and the easiest weight loss ever.

THE SYSTEM 10 PLAN INCLUDES:

• An analysis of your metabolism

•Nutritionist designed highly balanced food plans of normal, natural foods, no pills, bars or shakes.

• An exercise plan (home - walk, jog or bike) or gym plan including toning.

•Nutritional supplement recommendations to rapidly repair your system.

•Private weigh-ins, motivational tips and support throughout the programme.

• We can guarantee that every pound you lose is a pound of fat (you don’t lose water or muscle like most plans). You will lose 2-3lbs every week and because our programme is designed to speed up your metabolism, you will keep the weight off when you finish your plan. Programmes available for men and women.

WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

System 10 weight loss plan returns to Roscommon

The renowned System 10 weight loss plan has returned to Roscommon, offering participants the chance to potentially lose up to two stone in ten weeks.

The System 10 plan understands there are three keys to genuine weight loss – diet, exercise, and metabolism correction. All three interconnect (one will not work without the other), but your metabolism is the most pow-

erful of all – it is the ‘switch’ that controls everything else.

Metabolism problems will limit or stop your weight loss, no matter how much dieting or exercise you do, and working on fixing your metabolism problems can produce amazing results. Combine this with a reasonable diet and exercise routine, and you will get the best, fastest, and easiest weight loss results ever!

Council to host event focused on female electorate concerns

Following receipt of funding, Roscommon County Council are providing training and support to candidates in advance of the Local Elections 2024. Like other local authorities, the Council are hosting an event in the

This is what the System 10 plan aims to do, with programmes running in Roscommon for both men and women. A weekly clinic take place every Wednesday at the Hive, Dublin Road, Carrick-on-Shannon, and every Thursday at the Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon (F42 DX61). Booking is essential and can be done by calling 086 3846302.

Testimonial from Mark (Roscommon)

“I did System 10 to lose weight and improve diet, and the results were fantastic. I aimed to lose two stone in ten weeks and ended up losing three stone in the 10-week period! I would recommend it to anyone interested in losing weight or in general improving their health”.

context of the concerns of the female electorate, supporting increased participation in the political process and focusing on issues and concerns affecting women.

To this effect, an evening aimed at providing support and empowerment for women while celebrating diversity will take place on Thursday, May 2nd, from 7 pm to 9 pm in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town. All local election candidates have been invited to this event, which in turn will provide a platform for candidates to hear the views of women voters and the groups they represent.

This event will be chaired by an independent moderator. There will also be a questions and answers session from an audience of invited guests, which will be representative of groups affiliated to the RWN, Roscommon County Council’s Public Participation Network (PPN), and the Ukrainian Support Group. This is an important event highlighting the importance of increasing the participation of women and diversity in the context of the forthcoming local authority elections.

Thursday (11th)

Boston-bound

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

Last week, we returned from a short break in the USA and Canada, a visit to very hospitable relatives. Returning to Boston for the first time since 2015 was a pleasure. This vibrant, sportsloving city, rich in history and with long established strong Irish links, exudes a warm glow as it draws you into its welcome embrace.

On our one evening in the city, we enjoyed a pleasant walk on Boston Common, where the many joggers are outnumbered by the very cute (and inquisitive) squirrels.

A visit to the bar that inspired classic sitcom Cheers is of course mandatory. As a sitcom enthusiast, I enjoyed this return call to a venue buzzing with atmosphere. Ice hockey on the TV, Cheers memorabilia at every turn, and ten dollars for a local beer!

Dinner that night was with relatives and friends in a beautiful restaurant on Beacon Hill. Next morning, my 8 am walk into the heart of the city was punctuated by torrential, dare I say biblicallike rainfall. I took refuge in a café and spent five minutes trying to determine how to work the coffee-making gizmo.

Along Boston Common, teams of workers were erecting barriers in preparation for the following Monday’s world famous Boston Marathon. One of the structures bore a sign which read: ‘Trump 2020 mobile mini storage’, apparently some show of support for the big guy who has his sights set on a return to the White House (you may have heard of him). The previous night, the visiting Rossies (there were four of us) had mischievously introduced the topic of Trump. The Bostonians present duly responded with very animated, strong views on the upcoming presidential race! A humdinger of a ‘debate’ followed. To paraphrase Billy Joel, we did start the fire…

Friday-Monday (12-15th)

Canada (no John)

On the Friday, we took the five-hour drive from Boston into Canada, passing through the states of Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. This was a beautiful drive, with stunning scenery, highlight of which was the sight of a handful of people skiing down massive slopes on New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

There was no issue at border control, a man with a moustache checking our passports and wishing us well on our onward journey.

We spent the next few nights in the very quaint North Hatley, just over an hour and a half’s drive from Montreal.

It’s a beautiful little village, dotted with extremely charming wooden/timber frame homes, many of them over a century old, most fronted by wraparound porches that reminded me of the house in the classic TV show, ‘The Waltons’.

The village has a few lovely bars, restaurants, shops and art galleries.

Everyone speaks French in this part of Canada. The scenery is fabulous, North Hatley overlooking Lake Mas-

sawippi, in a very popular tourist area.

After three days with our wonderful hosts, (thanks Alan and Karen), we headed for Logan Airport in Boston. At Border Control, a man with no moustache browsed our passports, had a look at each occupant of the car, and then asked if ‘John’ had also travelled with us. He also wanted to know if we had any fruit ‘on board’. We had fruit, but we didn’t have a John.

I explained that I’m down on my passport as ‘John Paul’ – long story. The friendly but formal Passport Man asked us to park up and wait while he checked if I actually exist.

“We have no record of you entering America” he announced, which, perhaps worryingly, made me slightly proud for a moment. After ten minutes or so it was all resolved, once it was established that Paul Healy is also John Paul Healy, and that while John doesn’t exist, I do. We told him about the fruit.

Tuesday-Wednesday (16-17th)

Don’t do this…

On the train home from Dublin, a man

called from the airport and joked: “I have your passport; it’s going on to the black market”. It was a joke (the black market bit). He was an honourable employee at the airport. They had found my passport, which I had left on the plane. That was silly of me. On Wednesday, I was tired.

Thursday (18th)

Reunited…

Back to Dublin Airport, where the first success of the day sees me navigate the train/bus combination journey without incident. Success number two is being reunited with my passport. First, I had to queue behind a grumpy Scottish man with a thin face. He’s grumpy because the five young women in front of him are trying to convince the Aer Lingus lady (who is patiently trying to sort their paperwork) to fly off with them on their hen party adventures.

Friday (19th)

A near-miracle…

The excitement in the locality today was at… fever pitch.

Some locals wondered if we should erect bunting, such was the sense of sheer joy and wonder. There were unconfirmed reports of similar outbreaks of ecstasy countywide. It wasn’t just us.

Small babies (they are all small) were beaming, transfixed, confused. They had (literally, I think) never seen anything like it.

As we savoured this wondrous day, I briefly considered ringing Danny Burke and inviting the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band to attend.

In the end, we just calmed down. Collectively, we marvelled at this near-miracle… the arrival of sunshine, and the End of the Rain. Then we cut the grass.

Saturday (20th)

A stylish wedding!

Years ago when Sir John (‘Jack’) Leslie – the then-owner of Castle Leslie in Monaghan – occasionally appeared on TV chat shows, his fondness for dancing in nightclubs into his 80s (including regular trips to Ibiza to go clubbing) was always highlighted. The charismatic John passed away in 2016, at the age of 99.

He certainly put the exclusive wedding venue on the map (amongst the famous people to celebrate their wedding there were Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills).

Today, we had our first visit to the Castle Leslie Estate, where we were among the guests at the wedding of Noel Reynolds (Elphin) and his bride Lynn (from Cavan). A beautiful ceremony was followed by a memorable reception in this breathtakingly stunning venue.

Wishing the happy couple, Noel and Lynn, many years of wedded bliss together.

Sunday (21st)

Sunny Hyde

Home from the wedding, I made it to Dr Hyde Park for Roscommon v Mayo, played in beautiful sunshine. The newly-enhanced stadium looked great, but we lost. See pages 42-43.

TUS Athlone honours graduates of People Management Diploma

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) celebrated the newest graduates of its prestigious Associate Diploma in People Management at its Athlone Campus this week. The graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the academic and professional journey of these individuals.

Colette Moore from Roscommon Town pictured with her certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus.

Tracy Powell from Curraghboy, County Roscommon pictured with her certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus.

Richard Keogh from Athlone, pictured with his certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus.

Roger Quinn from Athlone pictured with his certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus.

Edel Reddington from Coosan in Athlone pictured with her certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus. Megann Higgins from Moate pictured with her certi cate after the recent graduation ceremony for the Associate Diploma in People Management at the TUS Athlone Campus.

Learning to be keen – and green!

Roscommon County Council, in partnership with My Waste Ireland, is delighted to announce the launch of the Roscommon Green Business Hub initiative with an event to be held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Wednesday 8th May from 8am to 9am.

The event will be an opportunity for local businesses to learn more about this new initiative and network over a light breakfast.

Representatives from Roscommon County Council, the Regional Waste Management Planning O ce, Roscommon Local Enterprise O ce and Galway Roscommon ETB will share their knowledge on greener business practices.

Business owners will also have the chance to learn about sustainable training and other business support opportunities that will be available and how joining the Green Business Hub will help create a greener, more environmentally conscious business community in Roscommon.

Looking ahead to the event, Jonathan Jones, Environmental Education and Awareness O cer, of Roscommon County Council remarked: “I am delighted that

Roscommon has been selected as a location for a Green Business Hub and I would encourage all businesses in Roscommon to join us for the Green Business Hub event.

“This is a great opportunity for the business community to join together to tackle business waste.  Waste reduction and proper waste segregation will not only help the local environment but may also help businesses reduce their waste disposal costs.”

The Green Business Hub initiative will provide resources and support to businesses looking to adopt more sustainable practices, in particular waste segregation and reduction strategies. The campaign will also recognise businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, with the goal of creating a greener, more environmentally responsible business community in Roscommon.

The breakfast morning is open to all businesses and organisations. To book your place please sign up at https://www.localenterprise. ie/Roscommon or email envawareness@ roscommoncoco.ie for further details.

CLÁR Programme 2024

The Department of Rural and Community Development announced details of the CLÁR programme for 2024 on 12th April 2024. CLÁR provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas that have su ered signi cant levels of population decline. There is a national allocation of €8.7 million for 2024 under 3 measures to be operated via Local Authorities and the Department of Rural and Community Development for a range of School and Community projects.

Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities & Amenities

Measure 2: Mobility, Cancer Care and Community First Responders Transport and Meals on Wheels Services

Measure 3: ‘Our Islands’

Roscommon Green Business Hub

CALLING ALL BUSINESSES in Roscommon

The Green Business Hub will provide your business with information, practical tools and support to implement good waste management practices, save costs and help the environment.

Join us to learn more about the Green Business Hub and how it can support your business.

Wednesday 8th May 8.00am-9.00am, The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

For booking visit www.localenterprise.ie/Roscommon or email envawareness@roscommoncoco.ie for further information

Up to 15 applications in total will be invited from relevant Local Authorities in respect of Measure 1. The maximum level of funding for any individual project is €50,000 and grant-funding is at a rate of 90% of total project costs.

Applications are being accepted directly by the Department in respect of Measures 2 and 3 via email to CLAR@drcd.gov.ie. Full details of the Measure 2 and 3 Schemes and application forms are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie

In order to facilitate schools/communities in preparing an application, full details of the Measure 1 Scheme and application forms are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie

Please keep an eye on our social media for details of an information webinar for interested applicants in the coming weeks.

Closing date for receipt of fully completed Application Forms for Measure 1 is 5pm on Tuesday, 21st May 2024

Applications must be saved as a Microsoft Word format and submitted by email only to CLAR@roscommoncoco.ie

Mark Keaveney

Director

of Services

Roscommon

County Council

ICOB deadline looming

The deadline for Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant registration is approaching! Businesses have until Wed. May 1st to register on the ICOB Portal at icob.ie. Businesses are advised to check the portal to see if their business quali es.

Forthcoming LEO workshops

Roscommon’s Local Enterprise O ce (LEO) continue to o er a range of courses and supports to small and medium sized businesses for the month of May.

On Thursday, May 2nd, Thursday May 16th and again on Thursday May 30th, LEO are o ering free one to one Remote Advisory Clinics for those that want to discuss a Business Idea that they may have.

Clinics are also for clients that wish to discuss LEO Supports and Services for new and existing businesses in County Roscommon and are available to book on the LEO Roscommon website.

Late submissions will not be considered.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, May 7th and 8th, a free remote training course on budgeting, costing and pricing for your business will be held via zoom. Again bookings can be made online through the Roscommon LEO website. Then on Thursday, May 9th, there will be a free remote workshop via zoom on the subject of trading online vouchers (TOV’s). Again booking is advised via Roscommon LEO’s website.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL BRIEFS

Local students honoured at All-Ireland Scholarships awards

Two Roscommon students have been awarded an All-Ireland Scholarship which will cover the full duration of their undergraduate studies.

Josh Oyiki and Leo O’Connell were honoured at the All-Ireland Scholarships Awards Ceremony on the 30th of March in University Concert Hall, University of Limerick. In attendance at the ceremony was scholarship sponsor JP McManus, Guest of Honour and CEO of Northwell Health, Michael J

Dowling, Minister for Further and Higher Education Niall Collins and Director of Skills, Strategy and Policy, Department for the Economy, Northern Ireland, Graeme Wilkinson – as well as the family, friends and school representatives of the scholarship recipients. Commenting at the awards ceremony, Scholarship Sponsor JP McManus said: “I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of these 125 students. To date, 1,799 students have re-

ceived an All-Ireland Scholarship, and 1,348 of those students have since graduated from university.

“Today is a very special occasion for the students, their families and principals. They should all be very proud of themselves, and we are looking forward to seeing what they do in years to come”.

The All-Ireland Scholarships were established in 2008 by JP McManus and this year marks its 16th anniversary.

Pictured receiving his All-Ireland Scholarship is Athlone Community College student Leo O’Connell. Pictured receiving his All-Ireland Scholarship is Athlone Community College student Josh Oyiki.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to headline 2024 Percy French Festival

Will deliver keynote address on how a United Ireland might look

In a major coup for the festival organisers, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at the 16th annual Percy French Festival, taking place from July 17th-19th at Castlecoote House, Castlecoote, Co Roscommon.

This year’s festival, themed ‘Our Great Disconnect’, will explore a variety of topics from historical, social, political, and artistic perspectives.

Ahern, who served as Taoiseach from 1997 to 2008, will discuss the prospects for a United Ireland in his address to the annual festival in Castlecoote. He will attend on Thursday, July 18th

While Ahern’s political career ended in controversy, the major role he played in the Northern Ireland peace process has been widely hailed, and his perspective on the prospects for a United Ireland –and how such a ‘new Ireland’ might look – will be eagerly awaited and promises to be the highlight of this year’s conference.

As always, musical performances

Bertie Ahern will deliver keynote address at this year’s Percy French Festival at Castlecoote House, Roscommon. and recitals will also feature during the festival, with the renowned Don Baker among the musicians performing.

Peace process and a united Ireland

Bertie Ahern’s role in achieving a ceasefire in Northern Ireland following his election as Taoiseach in 1997

was vital in reaching the subsequent Good Friday Agreement which led to peace on the island of Ireland and brought an end to The Troubles. At a time when the prospect of an agreed United Ireland has been brought into focus in recent years, it is fair to say that Bertie Ahern is uniquely qualified to speak on the current and future landscape.

Presidential speculation

Since his readmission to the Fianna Fáil party at the end of last year, speculation of a potential presidential bid in 2025 by the former Taoiseach has continued to grow, with many commentators noting that Ahern is exhibiting all the signs of a man ready to re-enter public life. Since leaving Government in 2008, Ahern has dedicated his time to conflict resolution causes and is actively involved with many groups around the world.

Line-up

The 2024 Percy French Festival will feature a line-up of distinguished speakers, including Dr Brian Griffin, Tony McCarthy, Dr Pauric Travers, Dr Pádraig Lenihan, Dr Michael Hardiman, Dr James Bradshaw, Pearse O’Shiel, Dr Kevin Kiely, Dr Eve Watson, Louise Lennon, and Dr Margaret Daly-Denton (who will give this year’s Sean Freyne Memorial Lecture). Additionally, attendees can look forward to musical performances, with Don Baker confirmed as one of the performing artists.

*More in forthcoming issues. More information about the 2024 festival will be available soon on PercyFrench.ie, where information about past festivals can also be found.

Book your ticket for a fascinating cultural festival

‘Whole day’ tickets for each of the three days of the 2024 Percy French Festival are now available. Each whole day ticket covers three/four lectures on the day, Afternoon Recital, etc.

Festival admission also includes tea/coffee/cakes each day (as well as an option for hot lunch), the opportunity for audience members to ask questions following each talk, and on the final day, a panel discussion featuring key speakers from across the three days.

Tickets on the Wednesday and Friday are €50 each. Tickets for the Thursday, which will feature the keynote address by former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, and music by the renowned Don Baker, are €65. Admission for students is just €15 per day.

Early bird ticket rates

Early bird tickets are currently available at a cost of €50 for each whole day, or just €10 for students. Those interested in attending are advised to act now in order to not miss out, as festival tickets sell out quickly. The ticket office can be contacted on info@percyfrench.ie or 090 666 3794. See also info@percyfrench.iewww.percyfrench.ie/email

Noel to complete 1000 skips in an hour for LauraLynn’s Skipping Challenge

Since the start of the month, Roscommon man Noel Hoare has been participating in the April Skipping Challenge for LauraLynn, a fundraising campaign which asks participants to complete 100 skips every day across the month of April to raise money for charity.

Speaking to the Ro-

scommon People, Noel explained that when taking up the challenge, he decided to up the ante and complete 1000 skips a day as part of his efforts, and according to his iDonate page, he has already exceeded his fundraising goal.

Noel has invited the public to show their support by coming along to the new monument in the Square, Roscommon town, this Friday, where he will complete his 1000 skips for the day in public. This will take place from 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm.

NoelHoare.

Those who want to support Noel’s journey and LauraLynn can do so via his iDonate page, idonate.ie/fundraiser/

So far, the Skipping Challenge for LauraLynn has raised over €250,000 nationally. The challenge has been taking place throughout the month of April. Participants were challenged to undertake 100 skips a day throughout the month, all whilst fundraising.

LauraLynn is Ireland’s

only Children’s Hospice providing palliative and hospice care and support for children with lifelimiting conditions and their families from all across Ireland. Cathy White, Community Fundraising Executive at LauraLynn, commented. “I would like to say a huge thank you to Noel and

everyone who took part in our April Skipping challenge. The support from participants in our skipping and other fundraising challenges make

an incredible impact to the lives of children with life-limiting conditions and their families who LauraLynn support across Ireland”.

Rambling House event this weekend in Ballintubber

The Rambling House is a tradition in Ireland wherein locals gathered to entertain each other by sharing and performing stories, songs, and dances – long before modern technology came along.

In an effort to preserve this tradition and to encourage anyone who may be interested to participate in these kind of positive, free social events, a ‘Rambling House’ is being held this weekend from 4 pm on Sunday, the 28th of April, in Kenny’s Bar and Lounge, Ballintubber. All are welcome.

For more information, contact Anthony Waldron on 086 7866774. This event is being held in partnership with ALONE, Roscommon LEADER, and The Suck Valley Way.

St Coman’s Wood Primary School Church Gate

Collection

St Coman’s Wood Primary School will hold its Church Gate Collection at Masses at Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon this coming weekend. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

NewsPeople

Your chance to follow in Latisha’s footsteps!

Local youths have an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Latisha McCrudden from Lisacul following the recent launch of the sixth Annual Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards, in association with Roscommon and Longford County Councils.

Latisha was winner of the national Special Achievement Award last year after becoming involved in local community and volunteer work and being instrumental in promoting the rights of Travellers.

The Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards celebrate outstanding young people between the ages of 13 and 21 years.

The nomination process is now open and the public are invited to nominate a young person or group of young people they know, who were committed to making a difference to their community during the last year.

Chairperson of the Roscommon/Longford Youth Awards, Inspector David Cryan, commented that the Awards celebrates outstanding young people and recognises the good work being done by these individuals.

“Having been involved in the awards for the last four years, I never cease to be amazed and inspired by the resilience displayed by the young people of counties Roscommon and Longford, who strive to make the lives of people in their local communities better –despite often dealing with personal adversity themselves. I would encourage

the recent launch of the Roscommon/Longford Garda

Categories… and how to nominate

members of the public to nominate someone whom they know in their locality”.

The Roscommon/Longford Garda Division were delighted to have had a national winner in 2023; Latisha McCrudden from Lisacul in County Roscommon was the winner for the national Special Achievement Award after becoming involved in local community and volunteer work and being instrumental in promoting the rights of Travellers through her work with the Irish Traveller Movement

national forum.

Other worthy winners from County Roscommon were the transition year students from Castlerea Community College, who received the Community Safety Award for creating a TikTok video highlighting the dangers of spiking while out socialising, while a Special Recognition Award was also presented to Roscommon Comhairle na nOg for their continued work on various topics affecting young people in the county.

Nominations can be made under any of the four categories: the Individual Award (making a positive contribution to their community and making it a better place to live in), Group Award (two or more young people making a positive contribution to their community and making it a better place to live), Special Achievement Award (nominee who has overcome di cult circumstances, de ed all the odds and whose commitment deserves recognition), and Community Safety Award (through a crime prevention or safety initiative/innovation, have made their community a safer place to live in).

Gardaí will be distributing nomination forms to schools, youth groups and voluntary organisations via email in the coming weeks. These forms may also be requested from Roscommon.GardaYouthAwards@garda.ie or may be downloaded on the Garda website and also from the Longford and Roscommon Local Authority

to Roscommon. GardaYouthAwards@garda.ie or can be posted to The Community Policing Unit, Boyle Garda Station, County Roscommon. All nominations must be received by 5 pm on Friday, 21st June 2024.

O’Rourke sisters experience mixed fortunes at European Championships

The O’Rourke sisters experienced an evening of mixed fortunes at the European Elite Boxing Championships in Belgrade on Tuesday evening. The Castlerea sisters took to the ring for the quarter-finals of their respective weight divisions.

Paris-qualified Aoife, who was aiming to defend her European gold medal, faced Hungarian fighter Veronika Nakota in the 75kg quarter-final and the Castlerea boxer made light work of her opponent,

cruising to a unanimous 5-0 victory. This win means that Aoife progresses to the semi-final this evening, Thursday, where she will face Turkish fighter Isildar Bursra and is guaranteed at least a bronze medal.

Unfortunately, things did not go to plan for Lisa O’Rourke as she missed out in a place in the 66kg semi-final, falling to a narrow 4-3 defeat at the hands of Jessica Triebelova of Slovakia after a bout review.

websites. Nomination forms can be emailed

Pictured at

Youth Awards were Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council), Superintendent John Fitzgerald (Roscommon District), Inspector Paddy McGirl (Longford District), Janine Bartley (Community Safety Coordinator, Longford County Council), Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon (Roscommon/Longford Division), and Inspector David Cryan (Chairperson of the Roscommon/ Longford Garda Youth Awards).

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Match between Creggs and Michael Glavey’s revives local memories

Our columnist Frank Brandon muses on Creggs versus Michael Glavey’s, young footballers (their exceptionalism and the expectations on them), the Creggs Harvest Festival, and family baptisms…

It’s a beautiful Friday evening as I write, and after what seems like an eternity of non-stop wind and rain, the sun is finally shining as our Creggs footballers head for Ballinlough where we are due to play Michael Glavey’s in a game that is doubling up as an O’Gara Cup and Michael Keane memorial cup match.

The Keane brothers, Peter and Mick, who originally came from

Coalpits outside Creggs, were the proprietors of the iconic business that was Keane’s of Cloonfad.

For many years their fabulous pub was a favourite watering hole for any Creggs person who might be passing that way. As a very young lad, I can remember spending many an hour sitting outside Keane’s eating copious amounts of chocolate and sweets and drinking minerals, while my father and what seemed like all of Creggs discussed the happenings in MacHale Park earlier that day.

The Keanes never forgot their Creggs roots, and no matter where we played back in those days you would see one or other (or both) in attendance, unashamedly supporting the Creggs team, and also (obviously enough, being Cloonfad businessmen) staying deeply involved in the affairs of the Michael Glavey’s club.

And so, way back in 1983, American-based Creggs men Christy

Keegan, Jimmy Kenny, and Cloonfad’s Michael Walsh decided to put up the Mick Keane Cup in honour of the great Creggs supporter. The first time the cup was played for was in the legendary Gaelic Park in New York, when the touring Creggs football team played St Barnabas from New York, who defeated a very jet-lagged, weary, and hungover Creggs outfit. In the end however, they gave the cup to the Creggs men – even though, as Marty Hegarty said at the time, “we didn’t win on the scoreboard”.

In the forty years since that memorable first game, which was played in front of almost a thousand supporters, the Mick Keane Cup has evolved in a number of different ways. But now, thanks to Mick’s son Francie, who is a respected GAA man and a well-known referee, the cup is played for whenever the two clubs meet. Unfortunately though,

the balance is hugely in Glavey’s favour – and Friday night was no different.

The local team won decisively, and captain Caoilfinn Fitzmaurice, who also received the Francie Keane-sponsored Glavey’s Player of the Game award, accepted the cup on behalf of his team. On our side, Shane Dowd got the award as the Creggs Player of the Match.

As I walked across the pitch, which was in remarkable condition considering the recent rainfall, I cast a glance over at the Dermot Earley stand, and my mind went back 50 years to a memorable three-game battle we had with the Earley-inspired Glavey’s team in the quarter-final of the senior championship of 1974. After three fabulous games, we got through to the semi-final, where we managed to beat St Brigid’s and qualified for our only ever appearance in a

Pub punditry on promising (and punishing) players

After coming back from Ballinlough (see separate item), a few of us adjourned to Mikeen’s, where, with all of the GAA matters that were coming our way over the next two days, the chat (not unusually) was mostly about upcoming matches – both hurling and football.

However, before I go onto the senior games… a good bit of the early chat was about the minor hurling match that was to be played on Saturday afternoon between Galway and Kilkenny, and about the fact that a young lad from Mount Mary was playing corner-back for Galway.

Cathal Maloney, son of Tommy and Edel, plays his hurling with Ballygar, and I had heard that he was a special talent. However, a video that was put together of his performances for the school in Ballygar showed him to be simply amazing, and no words of mine could describe the outrageous brilliance of his play. Some of the scores he got, both goals and points, bordered on the

miraculous, and would have been worthy of the great Joe Canning or Henry Shefflin at their best.

As it happened, Kilkenny beat Galway on Saturday, but apparently young Maloney was a stand-out performer. The local hurling pundits wondered why such a talent was played at corner-back, when apparently the Galway forwards were pretty poor.

Anyway, keep an eye out for him – let’s hope he makes the most of his undoubted talent and some day graces Croke Park with the Galway senior team!

However, back to the pub chat: as a renowned pundit, I told the assembled audience that Sligo would put it up to Galway (which I got right), but I also told them that I wouldn’t have a certain Robert Finnerty on our Junior B team… I was only joking of course, but for some reason I didn’t rate the Galway forward very highly.

Twenty-four hours later and I was glad to eat humble pie as Finnerty, with one goal

and five points, almost single-handedly kept Galway in the race for a Connacht title.

I am more than happy to admit I got it wrong, but as a Galway supporter I wouldn’t have a huge lot of belief in our ability to either beat Mayo and win the Connacht title, or mount any type of serious challenge for Sam Maguire.

As we talked about the effort that an inter-county player has to put in to pursue a county career, I was flabbergasted to hear that even at the U-16 level, lads are expected to toe the line, so much so that lads on a Connacht County U-16 development squad were allegedly told that if they went on their school TY three-day trip to some place in Europe, they would be dropped off the county panel! In one case a father had already paid €600 for his son’s trip, but as the lad wanted to stay on the panel, the father had to forfeit the money.

I make no secret of my feelings about the issue of

drinking bans and other such restrictions that are imposed on county players (in case you don’t know, I think they are ridiculous), but surely we can all agree stopping young people from going on supervised educational trips with their school friends is definitely going too far.

Anyway, it was a fantastic sporting weekend. Jim McGuinness made a spectacular return to intercounty management with Donegal, but for someone who still longs for the cut and thrust of the old knockout championship, I have to say that the sad truth is that Derry are still there and will definitely come back even better than before. And in case you think I am antiDerry, I am not!

I just wish all the teams who lost their games would be out of the championship, and not have a second chance. It’s just not the same feeling when you beat one of your big rivals, but know you could well see them again later on in the year.

senior final, where a very strong Roscommon Gaels beat us by three or four points.

Anyway, while over there Friday, I met another legend of Roscommon football, Gerry Fitzmaurice. In our little chat, I told him that I can never remember beating Glavey’s in Ballinlough in my lifetime. Maybe I’m wrong, but on Friday there was no doubt as to where the Mick Keane Cup was going to reside at least for another twelve months.

Thanks to the very kind ladies of the Glavey’s ladies committee, there was lovely tea, sandwiches and buns upstairs in the clubhouse after the game; if our lads were second best on the field, they performed more than adequately when it came to sampling the very welcome grub, and all were very complimentary to hospitality provided by the Glavey’s club.

Sowing further success for Harvest Festival

Out here in Creggs, we are very proud that our local Harvest Festival has been running for over forty years, and that the 2023 one was as successful as ever!

However, there is a feeling abroad that new blood is needed to guide the ship forward – in the words of a well-known local activist, “too many of the volunteers have the free travel”.

Accordingly, from 9 pm on Thursday, May 9th, a meeting will be held in the Heritage Centre to try to figure out how to proceed into the future, and it’s to be hoped that new blood will show up and express an interest in getting involved.

The festival is part of the heritage of Creggs, and having survived Covid and lots of other difficulties over the years, I sincerely hope this appeal will not fall on deaf ears – and that new, enthusiastic members will come on board and ensure the survival of the festival well into the future.

So don’t forget: 9 pm at the Heritage Centre on May 9th – please be there!

And finally…

On Sunday afternoon, after Mass, a number of us arrived at our local Catholic Church, where our parish priest Fr Donal Morris was due to baptise little Hayley, second child of our daughter Lisa and her husband Brian.

It goes without saying that Hayley didn’t want to have anything to do with the Baptismal ceremony, and protested at the top of her very healthy lungs. To his credit, Fr Donal had seen it all before and wasn’t the slightest bit perturbed, and got the job done without any fuss at all.

Afterwards we adjourned to the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon, where thirteen adults and four children sat down to a lovely fourcourse meal, and as it very seldom happens that all our immediate and extended family get to meet, it was a really lovely day.

Once upon a time a christening would be a recipe for a good old-fashioned session, but times have changed, and we all headed off on our separate ways without ever visiting the bar… or any other bar!

Strokestown 2040: Launch of a visionary plan for the town’s future

On Friday evening, April 12th, the Strokestown Town Team unveiled their ambitious ‘Strokestown 2040: A Town Centre First Plan’ at a community gathering. The plan, which has been two years in the making and is funded by a €100,000 grant, aims to guide the sustainable development of Strokestown over the next 16/17 years.

Jonathan Cassidy, a key member of the Strokestown Town Team and advocate for the plan, spoke to the Roscommon People on this issue. Reflecting on the recent launch, he outlined his hopes for the future of the project and the benefits that are already emerging.

The event featured speeches from several notable figures, including Councillor John Keogh, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council; Christabelle Feeney, Responsible Business Lead at William Fry; Shane Lynskey, Chairperson of the Strokestown Town Team; and Sarah Flynn from the Brothers of Charity.

Shane Lynskey began proceedings with a poignant recital of a poem by his sister, reminiscing about her childhood in Strokestown. He highlighted the significant changes in the town’s layout and usage over the past 40 years. Mr Lynskey, a wellknown and respected member of the Strokestown community, explained that the streets where “we played as children” have been transformed, reflecting the town’s evolving needs. In his address, Councillor Keogh focused on the youth, particularly Leaving Cert students: “The Strokestown 2040 plan is not just a blueprint for physical development but a promise to our younger generation that their future is right here”.

Christabelle Feeney talked about inclusion and the participatory approach of the plan: “It’s refreshing to see a plan that has grown out of conversations with our youth, discussing not just what is, but what could be”. She also offered her support to students considering careers in social inclusion, law, or politics. Sarah Flynn provided a person-

al perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Strokestown. She stressed the issues with parking and accessibility that exacerbate the difficulties for those with mobility issues. “While parking spaces are plentiful, the real problem lies in how these spaces are used and the overall accessibility of the town,” Ms Flynn noted.

The event also highlighted various upcoming projects under the Strokestown 2040 plan, including initiatives like the Dark Skies Project, which aims to enhance night skies by lowering streetlight heights, and plans for a community hub in a historically significant, currently derelict site.

Shane Tiernan, the local authority’s CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about the positive atmosphere of the event: “Tonight was a celebration of community, vision, and proactive change, something we’re deeply committed to”.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the ongoing efforts and future plans to continue improving Strokestown, aligning with community needs

and ensuring inclusive growth.

The next town meeting is scheduled for May 9th at Strokestown Community Centre, and residents are invited to join in shaping the town’s future.

The Strokestown 2040 plan is available for review on the

Roscommon County Council’s website and on strokestown.ie

According to the organisers, in an effort to reduce environmental impact and costs, printed copies have been limited.

Mr Cassidy summarised that the community’s involvement

and feedback at the launch indicate a strong, positive response to the initiatives proposed, setting a hopeful tone for the continued development and enrichment of Strokestown as a vibrant and inclusive community.

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Picture: Kieran Croghan.

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Picture: Kieran Croghan.

RETRO Cannonball is coming to County Roscommon

The RETRO Cannonball is set to take place once again this year on May 24th and 25th, featuring over 100 classic cars, free family live entertainment and that unique festival atmosphere that Cannonball is renowned for, with proceeds of the event going to The Jack and Jill foundation. The event will have a lunch stop in Kilronan Castle in County Roscommon on May 25th where spectators and families can get up close, and see some rare classic cars, which will include vehicles such as the Lamborghini Diablo, Jaguar E-Type, Ferrari 348 GTS, Mercedes-Benz SL Classics, Lancia Beta, BMW 635CSI, Porsche 911 Carrera and Targa, MG Midget, Ford

Escort Cosworth, Chevrolet Corvette, VW Beetle, Ford Thunderbird, MINI Cooper and many more. Spectators view the cars, take photographs, meet the drivers and enjoy the timeless allure of vintage automobiles.

Leinster and Ireland rugby star, scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park has announced that he is joining Team Jack and Jill as Ambassador for the children’s charity where he recently launched the upcoming Retro Cannonball.

“As a dad of three healthy children, I massively appreciate how lucky we are as a family and can only begin to imagine the challenges faced by Jack and Jill families across Ireland,” said Jamison Gibson-Park.

Deirdre Walsh, CEO of Jack and Jill, commented: “We are honoured that Cannonball Ireland have chosen to support Jack and Jill again in 2024. Last year, our partnership raised an impressive €161,000, which translated into 8,944 hours of in-home nursing care and respite support for 534 families supported by Jack and Jill in 2023”.

Registration is also now open for Cannonball Ireland, the supercar event, taking place on September 6th to 8th this year, a firm favourite with both drivers and spectators, with proceeds to the Jack and Jill.

See www.cannonball.ie for details of all events.

MEP Maria Walsh pledges to build on ‘strong track record’

A message from

Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh…

While some might know me best as the Rose of Tralee, I now have a strong political track record from Europe to share. The transition from Rose of Tralee to MEP was not the most traditional route into politics, but after five years of working in the European Parliament for Midlands-NorthWest, I have a strong track record under my belt.

As a farmer myself, I have protected the incomes of young farmers, female farmers, and crucially, of our hard-working family farmers by lobbying in the European Parliament for increased CAP funding.

Protecting Ireland’s economic competitive advantage on the European stage has been a core priority of mine, as has supporting female entrepreneurs.

I have developed the concept of the Female Founders’ Fund, the first of its kind in the EU, to provide female business owners with much-needed capital. As one of the Chief

Knockcroghery man features in IFTA winning film

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Scoring a very respectable 8.3/10 on the Internet Movie DataBase (IMBD) reviews section, and an enviable 100% on film review website, Rotten Tomatoes, Irish director Pat Collins’ adaptation of John McGahern’s novel ‘That They May Face The Rising Sun’ has also taken the title of ‘Best Film’ at this week’s Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTAs).

Filmed last summer in the wilds of Connemara, the film has been showcased around the world with screenings in London, Rome and Santa Barbara. The most recent special showing was in Carrick Cineplex last Thursday (April 18th).

Negotiators on the EU’s Pay Transparency Directive, I have also delivered legislation which ensures that Irish women receive the same pay as their male colleagues.

On healthcare, I have campaigned day in and day out to put mental health on the European political agenda. Death by suicide is the second leading cause of death for our young people in the EU.

To combat this crisis, I have worked closely with President Ursula Von der Leyen and the European Commission to ensure mental health is accounted for across European policy. Off the back of my work, I am confident that we will see the first ever EU Mental Health Strategy delivered in the next mandate.

Strong and serious politicians are needed on the European stage now more than ever. With the European elections coming up on June 7th, we need to ensure that those we are electing to represent Ireland on the international stage do not only deliver for our country in Europe, but crucially act as a strong voice for the Midlands and West of Ireland.

As is typical of McGahern’s storytelling, the film isn’t packed with blockbuster drama but rather tells the simple story of a young couple trying to make a go of life in rural Ireland during the 1980s, having said goodbye to the hustle and bustle of London. Adapted for the screen by Irish screenwriter, Eamon Little, the film focuses on the central theme of Joe and Kate as they move through their lives encountering many familiar themes which were remnants of the time in Irish history.

Barry Ward, who plays the lead character Joe is matched by the skill and talent of Anna Berderke, who plays opposite him as his young wife Kate, a lady of unspecified European origin in the film. But the greatest acting debut of note is that of Knockcroghery man, Philip Dolan who plays the part of Jamesie, the local publican.

A pivotal role, Philip delivers his lines with the eloquence displayed during our wide-ranging interview with the local man. Since making his silver screen debut in the IFTA winning film, Philip has gone on to feature in a short film which is currently being edited. Possibly the beginnings of a new career for the retiree?

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Philip and his wife Marina told us they hope to have a special screening of ‘That They May Face The Rising Sun’ in the cinema in Roscommon.

The couple, encouraged by friends and neighbours, hope that the special screening in Roscommon can be an inclusive and community-focused event. They also hope that it will be organised so that the film’s director, Pat Collins, can attend and answer questions about the film.

A date for the Roscommon screening is yet to be confirmed but the Roscommon People will keep you up to date with details as we receive them. ADVERTORIAL

Pat Collins, director of the movie adaptation of John McGahern’s ‘That They May Face the Rising Sun’ pictured with first-time actor Philip Dolan from Knockcroghery after they won the ‘Best Film’ Award at the IFTAs in Dublin last week.

Leinster and Ireland rugby star Jamison Gibson-Park, the newly-announced ambassador for The Jack and Jill Foundation, is pictured with six-year-old Barry Garry at the launch of the 2024 RETRO Cannonball run.

Leinster and Ireland rugby star Jamison Gibson-Park, the newly-announced ambassador for The Jack and Jill Foundation, pictured with Cannonball Founder Alan Bannon at the launch of the 2024 RETRO Cannonball run.

From the oil fields to the silver screen

HOW A CHANCE MEETING IN A LOCAL PUB OPENED UP AN EXCITING NEW WORLD FOR KNOCKCROGHERY MAN PHILIP DOLAN…

< EMMETT CORCORAN

This week, the Roscommon People had the pleasure of sitting down with Philip Dolan, a man of many talents, one of which he has come to discover later in life: acting.

Philip spent a lifetime working abroad in the oil industry, commissioning oil fields in Africa, the Middle East, and across the globe.

On a dull April day, it was a welcome delight to enter the old railway house in Knockcroghery, where the walls and shelves were adorned with art and artefacts from around the world – mementos of Philip’s time working abroad.

My colleague Kieran and I were welcomed into the warmth of the Dolan home by Philip and his lovely wife, Marina. The couple purchased the railway house in the mid-1970s, and over the last 50 years, they have transformed it into a fine country home.

With sincerity in his voice, Philip recalls all the tears that must have eroded the doorstep of the former railway house; with all the people who must have got on the train and never come home. But their 50-odd years in the railway house in Gailey in Knockcroghery have been happy ones for Philip and Marina. Marina spent her career teaching in Ballinasloe and is an active member of the Roscommon Golf Club. Philip recalls many good times over the years when he’d be home from working abroad to enjoy the rambles in the local pubs, and indeed, many a fry was had after closing time in the Dolan home!

Acting career

Philip is quick to insist that he isn’t much of a singer, but nonetheless enjoys his time participating in the South Roscommon Singers Circle. A welcoming bunch, the Singer Circle embraces Philip’s magnificent storytelling and yarn spinning, something which came through in bucket-loads during our time speaking to Philip about his many exploits.

As Philip regaled the patrons of Murray’s Pub in Knockcroghery some time back, he came to the attention of the acclaimed Irish film director Pat Collins. Mr Collins, having witnessed Philip in full flight, decided it was worth giving him a screen test for an upcoming adaptation of the John McGahern novel ‘That They May Face The Rising Sun’. Things moved rather quickly from there. A week or so later, Maureen Hughes, the casting director for the film, and Pat Collins came to visit Philip at his home in Knockcroghery. Shortly after completing the screen test,

a first for Philip in his 70-odd years on the planet, the phone call came to say the part was his if he wanted it, and that’s when Philip became Jamesie, the publican who plays a pivotal role in what has become an award-winner in the Best Film category at the IFTAs this week.

Filming experience

Throughout our wide-ranging conversation about life, work, retirement, and starting an acting career in his 70s, it is notable that Philip, an amateur actor by his own admission, felt so welcomed on the set by some very well-established Irish actors including Sean McGinley and Ruth McCabe, among many others.

Philip’s voice softened ever so slightly as he recalled his time in Leenane last summer, getting to know the cast and crew with whom he worked for the duration of the production.

“How did you find the experience

shot, how settings are lit, and the various angles from which a film is shot. It was quite the experience,” said Philip.

Thoughts on McGahern

An avid reader and lover of Irish literature – evidenced by the well-packed bookshelf standing behind Philip –the Knockcroghery man amazed us with his encyclopedic knowledge of the works of John McGahern.

“The thing about McGahern was that he took a lot of inspiration from real life for the characters he inserted into his stories, and coming from a small rural area in Mohill, South Leitrim, perhaps did too good of a job describing the characters in his books, but who is to know,” explained Philip.

He continued, “McGahern held a mirror up to rural life and to be fair faced some criticism for doing so. But he was unashamed in his use and reuse of particular literary tropes which were unique to him and his style of writing”.

Philip Dolan pictured in his home in Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Philip stars in Irish director Pat Collins’ adaptation of John McGahern’s novel ‘That They May Face The Rising Sun’. Picture: Kieran Croghan.

overall? It must have been quite different from what you were used to doing in the oil industry,” I asked.

“I have to say they were some of the best weeks of my entire life. Nervous as I was, I was made to feel welcome and part of the film family,” said Philip.

Curious as to how Pat Collins ended up in Murray’s Pub in Knockcroghery to witness Philip’s original recital, I asked what he was doing in Knockcroghery on that day.

“Pat Collins was doing a documentary on Thomas McCarthy, a traveller singer who would often join us at the South Roscommon Singers Circle… and when he finished his part of the documentary, we began our session. And as I said, I can’t sing, but I do tell stories. And one of the stories I told that night struck a note with Pat, which led to the screen test we talked about”.

“Of course, McGahern’s book is set in South Leitrim but the filming was done

in Leenane and around Connemara,” I noted. “I asked the same question myself and the answer will probably surprise many of your readers. The location scout couldn’t find enough unspoiled landscape in South Leitrim or North Roscommon to accurately portray the period in which the film was set,” Philip explained.

This was something that made me think about the realities of modernising large parts of rural Ireland and how unspoiled landscapes are becoming harder and harder to find throughout the country.

“Although I was made to feel welcome by everyone involved in the production, Barry Ward, one of the principal actors in the film, would often give me a thumbs up indicating that I had nailed my lines for that take. And of course, this being my first time as part of a production, I learned a lot about how scenes are

By his own admission, Philip wasn’t seeking to defend McGahern, but simply to point out the facts, explaining the context in which McGahern would write about the uncomfortable truths about Irish life at a particular time in our history.

“There was an attitude in Ireland at the time of ‘why are you mentioning that? Why are you bringing things like that up?’, but McGahern did”.

Local inspiration?

With McGahern deceased since 2006, we’ll probably never know the full truth about who he based Jamesie, the character Philip played in this film, on. But Philip has a fascinating theory; “I have my doubts that the character of Jamesie was at least loosely based on the great Roscommon footballer and publican from here in Knockcroghery, Jamesie Murray”.

Philip’s reasoning for this theory is rather sound as in another of McGahern’s books, he references Jimmy Murray’s famous football skills. Evidence at least that he knew the great Jamesie Murray.

“As far as I know, McGahern would frequent the factory in Athleague to sell cattle and from what I can gather would make it his business to travel as far as Jimmy Murray’s pub when business was done,” explained Philip. He continued; “and that’s why I think the character I played, Jamesie, is a nod to the late Jimmy (Jamesie) Murray”.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

Innovation and creativity in abundance at Kinia Creative Tech Youth Events

Roscommon Youth Service were among the over 600 of Ireland’s future engineering and digital change-makers who gathered at The Foundry in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin last weekend to attend key events as part of Kinia’s Creative Technology Week, April 5th-22nd Kinia, an education-focused non-profit organisation and social enterprise is empowering educators to equip young people with future-focused skills to unlock their full potential. Now in its 11th year, Kinia’s Creative Technology Week includes bilingual events, welcoming guests working in all types of youth-focussed organisations and roles, including teachers, family resource centre professionals, youth workers and young people aged between 12-18 years. The events showcase the incredible creative technology projects young people throughout Ireland have been working on all year, in the areas of STEAM, Digital Media and Computer Science.

Poetry Laneway launches this week in Roscommon

A new Poetry Laneway will be launched this week, as part of the larger public art programme titled ‘Living Laneways’, an innovative laneway trail where artists can respond creatively to public laneways in Roscommon Town and to its history, story and community.

Supported by Roscommon County Council, the Poetry Laneway features the work of three contemporary poets, Jane Clarke, Louise G. Cole and Dani Gill. Musician and composer Phil Robson has collaborated with the writers to present a custom sound piece for each of the poems.

The poetry will be presented in lightboxes in Chapel Lane, an important historic laneway in Roscommon town, with a special event on National Poetry Day 2024 –Thursday, April 25th

The artists involved will launch the laneway with an in-person event at 3 pm. The poets will introduce and read their poetry and attendees can scan a QR code in each

lightbox that will lead to the music composition created by Phil Robson.

The laneway enhancements form the final elements of Roscommon Town Main Street and Market Square Public Realm Project, and are funded through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as part of Project Ireland 2040 to include match funding from Roscommon County Council.

The aim of these work is to help create a town centre that functions as a viable, vibrant and attractive location, as well as being the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community. It is expected that this further development will boost the local economy drawing further footfall to the town centre, through improving access and making the town more connected.

All are welcome to attend. For further information, please contact curator/poet Dani Gill at dani@danigill.com or on 085 7604072.

Countdown to Strokestown International Poetry Festival

This year’s Strokestown International Poetry Festival will be held over the May Bank Holiday weekend –Friday, May 3rd, to Sunday, May 5th – in the sylvan setting of Strokestown Park House, Co Roscommon. This is festival director Joe Woods’ third year programming Ireland’s oldest poetry festival, and it promises to be a characteristic blend of diverse, local, national, and international poets reading; there will be bilingual readings,

workshops, multiple poetry book launches, poetry-film screenings, and collaborations with musicians.

Joe said: “I’m delighted that we have two of this year’s shortlisted TS Eliot prize poets reading for us –Jane Clarke and Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin – and that we are joining in the celebration of Rita Ann Higgins’ work on our opening night, when she reads alongside one of our international guests, the American-Irish

undertaker poet, Thomas Lynch.

“Other highlights will be Los Lorcas poetry concert, the presentation of the revived Strokestown International Poetry Competition, judged by Enda Wyley, Belinda McKeon’s keynote address and James Harpur’s collaboration with pianist Duke Special, to name just a few”.

For more detailed information and to book tickets, visit strokestownpoetryfest.ie.

Roscommon Youth Service members pictured at The Foundry in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin last weekend, attending events as part of Kinia’s Creative Technology Week.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh with (from left) Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer; Gerry Jago, MC; Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Úna Ní Chuinn, Roscommon County Council; and Aine Butler, Roscommon County Council pictured at the World Circus Day celebrations in Somers Park, Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Brian Farrell

Ian Brown, from the event production company Promenade, with some ice creams during last Saturday’s celebrations of World Circus Day, facilitated by Roscommon County Council Arts Office, in Somers Park, Castlerea. Pic: Brian Farrell

Some of the crowd picturedduring last Saturday’s celebrations of World Circus Day, facilitated by Roscommon County Council Arts Office, in Somers Park, Castlerea. Pic: Brian Farrell

FOR EMPLOYERS Recruiting for potential employees is a

never-ending job

– let us make it easier for you!

Roscommon LEADER Partnership is hosting a Career and Employment Expo on Wednesday 1st May 2024 starting at 11am in Kilbride Community Centre. (F42 N277)

The event will bring together recruiting employers, both entrepreneurs and established businesses, and education organisations. This Expo is an opportunity for you to promoter your company name and brand and to ll open positions. You will have face to face access to potential employees

and be given a chance to showcase the openings and opportunities you have.

If you would like to exhibit at this Expo or if you have any queries, please contact us at 090 6630252 or claire@ridc.ie.

FOR EMPLOYEES

Do you want a job, training or employment opportunities?

Then this is the place to be!

Roscommon Career and Employment Expo is on Wednesday, 1st May 2024 starting at 11am in Kilbride Community Centre. (F42 N277)

This is a great opportunity to get inspired and informed about jobs, apprenticeships, employers and further education programmes. This Expo is a fantastic way to speak with potential employers face to face. Doors open at 11am so get your CV ready.

If you would like help doing up your CV please let us know as we can help. Regular CV clinics run in the county help people do up new CVs or update existing ones. A strong CV is a great rst contact point with potential employers and it is your chance to make a good rst impression. Contact Linda at 086 7807438 or linda@ridc.ie to get an appointment. Transport has been arranged to and from a variety of locations for people

who wish to attend. If you would like to reserve a place on the bus please do so by logging onto https://forms. gle/n6W85ecbMFVcovw5A and inputting your information.

If you have any questions on the Expo please do not hesitate to contact us at 090 6630205 or email claire@ridc.ie This event is funded under the Roscommon LEADER Partnership SICAP programme on behalf of Roscommon Local Community Development Committee. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is co-funded by the Irish Government, through the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021 -2027

Excitement is building in Ballinaheglish ahead of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships, which are due to take place on Sunday, the 5th of May, in Ballinaheglish by kind permission of Paddy Beirne and family (F42Y436).

Roscommon’s annual ploughing festival is an event which attracts thousands of returning visitors every year. And this year, it’s an even more significant occasion for Roscommon Ploughing Association, as it is the association’s 30th anniversary.

This huge milestone represents three decades of hard work, dedication, and positive impact by the members and volunteers who have contributed over the years – many of whom have remained long-standing since the Association reformed in 1994.

The Ploughing Championships are an annual event that celebrates the skill and artistry of ploughing. It is a competition where participants showcase their ability to plough a plot with preci-

sion and efficiency.

“These are our County championships, which are qualifiers for national level”, explained association treasurer Martina Beirne, clarifying that neighbouring counties, who will also be participating, are required to compete in the Open classes per qualifying criteria under NPA rules.

Competitors are asked to start arriving at 9 am, where they will check in with the secretary’s office and be allocated plot numbers, before starting off the competition at 12 pm. All classes of ploughing competition will feature – both confined for the Roscommon competitors and open for the visitors. The championships will include senior and junior categories for the usual tractor, horse, and vintage ploughing competitions, and a loy digging competition will also take place.

While the ploughing forms the main core of the event, the day in Ballinaheglish is also set to feature a host of other agricultural activities,

exhibits, and entertainment, which Ms Beirne explains “will help make it a fun and educational event for everyone interested in farming and agriculture.

“It is a great way to appreciate the hard work and dedication of farmers and learn about the importance of soil cultivation”, she commented.

A number of kids events and attractions have also been lined up (see ‘From face-painting to fair rides –Fun for all the family at this year’s Ploughing’ in this feature for more), but the entertainment doesn’t stop there.

Talented local singers will be performing live on stage for the event and an outdoor dancing floor is going to be provided for those that like to waltz or jive.

The ever-popular traditional craft village will also be taking place, playing host to demonstrations of traditional crafts – such as a farrier with his forge, wood carving, weaving with rushes for baskets, and traditional fence-making – which

gives visitors a rare opportunity to learn these skills and get involved on the day.

To compliment the craft village, various Roscommon vintage clubs will also be present, as well as other groups and individual enthusiasts interested in the preservation and restoration of old cars, tractors, farm machinery (like threshing machines, etc), and other memorabilia from our social and agricultural heritage.

The trade fair will also be running again this year, and the Roscommon Hunt will be showcasing a skills demonstration for the public. The Garda Mounted Support unit will also be present.

There is sure to be something for everyone, no

matter what your interests or age, at the upcoming Ploughing Championships, with this year’s event sure to feel that extra bit special on account of it coinciding with the association’s 30year anniversary. Be sure not to miss out on the fun, and come along on May 5th to support the communityfocused event and enjoy a great day out!

For those interested in ploughing entries and trade stands, please contact Roscommon Ploughing Association’s treasurer Martina Beirne on 087 6141503 or via email at roscommonploughing@gmail. com. Keep up to date on this year’s upcoming event and all things Roscommon Ploughing by following the association on Facebook.

Roscommon Ploughing Association committee executive members (l-r) Patrick Lambert, Secretary; Ger Grehan, Chairperson; Martina Beirne, Treasurer and Dillon Beirne, PRO pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Special thanks to main sponsor Sean Mulryan

Last Friday, at the launch of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships, special thanks was extended to the event’s main sponsor, Sean Mulryan.

PRO of the Roscommon Ploughing Association, Dillon Beirne, thanked Sean Mulryan, a native of the parish of Ballinaheglish, for the support and financial contribution he’s given to the champion-

ships.

“We are extremely grateful for his generous donation”, said Mr Beirne, “as we are to all our faithful sponsors, to our new chairperson Ger Grehan for his good leadership, and to all fellow committee members, volunteers, and all in the parish for their tireless contribution and the support demonstrated to each other”.

Martina Beirne, Roscommon Ploughing Championship Treasurer, pictured with the main sponsor of this year’s ploughing championships, Sean Mulryan.

Gerry Morth, John Kelly, Patricia Leonard, Eleanor Co ey and James Co ey pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Ger Grehan, Roscommon Ploughing Association chairperson, speaking to attendees during the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

2024 ROSCOMMON PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

This year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships, taking place on May 5th, are once again being hosted in Ballinaheglish by Paddy Beirne and family, who have been very involved in the world of Roscommon ploughing for many years.

At the event’s official launch night last Friday, the Roscommon Ploughing Association’s PRO Dillion Beirne commented that, “It is a privilege for the association to receive this opportunity from the Beirne family as Paddy is a founding member of the association and without doubt one the foremost names in Roscommon ploughing.

“Paddy is a drystock farmer and a past AllIreland title winner in the three-furrow ploughing. His late wife Mary was a devoted supporter to Paddy over the years.

“Paddy and all three sons – John, Peter and Stephen –contributed immensely to the ploughing in the past as top class competitors. Currently, Paddy’s daughter Martina is Treasurer (of the association) and while Paddy’s sons no longer compete, Martina has taken up the mantle for a number of years and competed locally in novice and farmerette classes. She

Beirne family in Ballinaheglish to host 2024 Roscommon Ploughing

Members of this

is all set this year to plough the furrow as keenly as her father.

“I am Paddy’s grandson and have competed in both Novice and U21 classes at the All-Ireland – this year I

hope to qualify as an U21 competitor here at County level to compete in Rathinska in Laois in September at National level again with Paddy.

“This year the Beirne fam-

ily will have three generations competing in Ballinaheglish – Paddy, Martina and myself!”

Along with the other site owners who have previously hosted the ploughing in Roscommon, the Beirne family were presented with a commemorative plaque during the recent launch night, in recognition of their support and contribution over the years.

year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championship host family Martina Beirne, Paddy Beirne and Dillon Beirne pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

2024 ROSCOMMON PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Ifac reminds Roscommon farmers time is running out to apply for BISS

Ifac – Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm – is reminding Roscommon farmers not to miss the May deadline for the Basic Income Support Scheme (BISS).

The BISS was launched last year to replace the BPS from previous years. The deadline to apply for the scheme is the 15th of May this year.

Tommie Fallon (Partner at ifac in Roscommon) said: “This is one of the most important dates for farmers in the farming year. This is the deadline for declaring the land you are farming in the year 2024 and, therefore, enabling receipt of your BISS monies in October/ December.

“As shown in numerous ifac Irish farm reports, BISS is crucial to the financial viability of many farms in Ireland. It can be an incredibly stressful time for farmers if this application is incorrect and monies are withheld next October/December.

The following are some

basic questions farmers should be asking themselves and their Agri-advisors before submitting their applications.

1: Am I farming more/less land than last year?

2: Am I leasing in/out land that wasn’t previously on the application?

3: If leasing in/out new land have I leased in/out the BISS correctly with this land?

4: Have you bought/sold/ inherited/gifted land in the last year? Have I transferred in BISS correctly?

5: Have I declared all of the land I am farming correctly on my BISS application?

6: Have I changed the farming structure – Limited Company, Registered Farm Partnership, Joint herd number?

(A) If so, I MUST transfer BISS to the new structure. Always seek your accountant’s advice on HOW to transfer BPS so as not to incur taxes inadvertently.

(B) Have I declared all of the land correctly in the name of the new business structure?

Ifac advises farmers the following at this time when completing a BISS application:

Firstly, employ a good Agri-advisor to help you complete your application. This is money very well spent considering the importance of the payment to the financial well-being of the farm.

Secondly, if transferring BISS to a new entity (LTD, partnership, joint herd, family member, etc) please ensure that BOTH your accountant and Agri-advisor are aware of what’s happening. One of the most common mistakes with farmers changing business structure is neither their accountant nor Agri-advisor is aware of what each one applying for. This can have very serious impacts on both Revenue and the Department of Agriculture and could result in significant taxes and losses in BISS if completed incorrectly.

And lastly, give yourself time – do not leave this application until the last minute and complete it on the

15th of May.

At ifac, it is standard practice that we consult with our client’s Agri-advisors in times of change in the farm to ensure that BPS is not jeopardised in any way and also to ensure no undue taxes are incurred in the change.

Please note that this year the Department of Agriculture require all applications to be made online. The Department of Agriculture is running several helplines nationwide to assist farmers in this regard.

Tommie Fallon (Partner at ifac in Roscommon)

Ahead of the 2024 County Ploughing Championships next week, the Roscommon Ploughing Association has expressed its sincere thanks to local businesses and volunteers for their support, contributions, and sponsorships this year and in years previous.

Speaking ahead of the 2024 event, Treasurer of the Roscommon Ploughing Association, Martina Beirne, explained, “My aim as treasurer is to ensure the funds obtained (from the ploughing) are used to maximum benefit, and that the community of Ballinaheglish and the businesses that supported us benefits from it”.

Ms Beirne added, “I must com-

‘Survival of ploughing dependent on kind support of our local businesses and volunteers’

mend our loyal and faithful supporters”, also explaining that she is “actively campaigning for (new) sponsorship and support” to fund the event: “I have reached out to businesses I haven’t before in my role as Treasurer and they have just been amazing – both in terms of feedback and financial or product support”.

Ms Beirne also highlighted the fact that in addition to providing financial support, businesses can opt to enter trade stands at the event which can help them easily reach a targeted audience and establish connections with potential customers.

“This benefits them to help show-

case the business’s commitment to the community and enhances their reputation”, the committee treasurer said.

The big annual trade and machinery exhibition at Roscommon Ploughing always provides an excellent opportunity to be aware of local suppliers, create brand awareness and network.

The association has continually made the effort to acknowledge the contributions of local sponsors and supporters, something Ms Beirne confirmed would be no different going forward.

“I will be driving the message again for our attendees to support those businesses who supported

us. I will again provide a prominent display billboard like last year and publish on our ploughing website all those that contributed”, she said, speaking at the recent launch. This list was also published in the Roscommon People last autumn.

Ms Beirne wrapped up by acknowledging once again how significant, and indeed essential, local support and sponsorship has been for the association, remarking that “the survival of the county ploughing is dependent on the kind support of businesses and volunteers”. She concluded: “We are so appreciative of how the community has welcomed the ploughing event”.

Joe Egan (second from left) presenting the new ‘Kenagh Memorial Cup’ in memory of his father, Eamon Egan, to this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championship host, Paddy Beirne (second from right) during the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Also in the photo are John Kearney (left) and Thomas Neilan (right). Pic: Kieran Croghan

2024 ROSCOMMON PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

From face-painting to fair rides, there’s fun for all the family at this year’s County Ploughing

The 2024 Roscommon Ploughing Championships, kicking off this year on May 5th, promise to have fun in store for everyone, young and old, with a host of exciting activities for children lined up in addition to the usual variety of competitions and attractions aimed at older attendees. One such activity aimed at children that the whole family can enjoy is Corbally’s Pet Farm, who will be present throughout the day. They are bringing alpacas, miniature horses, a number of different breeds of sheep, goats, large and small rabbits, tortoises, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, pet rats, snakes and rare breed poultry, so it sure to be a great attraction! Fierce Fun Face-painting is also providing face-painting and balloon modelling free of charge to the children, which is sure to bring a lot of colour to the day.

And there will be complementary kids’ rides by the vintage Wanderley Wagon. The aim of this free entertainment is to keep the event at a low cost for families – children also have free admission.

In addition to this, O’Mahony’s Fun Fair will be present to add further variety and choice in terms of entertainment.

Contribution of site owners over the years is hailed

At their launch night last Friday, the Roscommon Ploughing Association made a special acknowledgment to the various site owners who have facilitated the holding of the county championships over the past number of years. This acknowledgment came just ahead of the 2024 event on May 5th and as the association celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

Speaking at the launch night, PRO Dillon Beirne commented that a large part of the association’s success is “attributed to the site owners who hosted the event over the last three decades, and it cannot go without recognition as they have contributed greatly”.

Mr Beirne said that as such, the association had chosen to present a commemorative plaque to each of the previous host owners “to further acknowledge their contribution, (which) was central to our survival, successes and achievements”.

He continued: “We wish again to express our heartfelt thanks for providing your excellent

sites throughout the last three decades”.

“Not alone the host owners”, he continued, “but our thanks is more far-reaching – to the immediate hosts’ neighbours and their community, that always supported us in whichever way they could. For example, criti-

cal tasks like sponsorship, road traffic and car parking stewarding. Our job here in the association was always made enjoyable as it was a genuine pleasure to work year on year with the different communities and to get to make valuable friendships along the way”.

Rachel Quinn and Ryan Kelly pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mary Geraghty and Paddy Fox pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Damian and Siobhan Hannon pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Successful ploughing launch sets tone for this year’s Championships

An official press launch took place in Ballinaheglish last Friday to kick off the 2024 County Roscommon Ploughing Championships, which are being held this year on Sunday, 5th of May.

The event, which was held in Sean McDermott’s Bar and Lounge, was a great success, being attended by a number of local business and media representatives, as well as several members of the community. This year marks the 30th anniversary for the

county’s ploughing association, and this impressive milestone was highlighted during the launch. As part of the event, Joe Egan presented the new ‘Kenagh Memorial Cup’ (in memory of his father, Eamon Egan) to this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championship host, Paddy Beirne, ahead of the big day. The launch also saw the Roscommon Ploughing Association present each of the previous host owners with a commemorative plaque to acknowledge their

support over the years.

Roscommon Ploughing Association PRO Dillon Beirne delivered a speech on the night, during which he thanked all for their support, and spoke briefly about the history of Roscommon ploughing and what’s in store this year’s event.

Mr Beirne said that in addition to the sponsors, local businesses, and members of the community who support the event, he wished to sincerely thank Sean McDer-

World champions to attend 2024 ploughing

In order to help facilitate learning and improvement for competitors involved in the Roscommon Ploughing Championships, the Roscommon Ploughing Association has arranged for a selection of top ploughing people from various counties to attend and support this year’s event, which takes place on May 5th.

A large NPA representation will feature at the event. The association is also delighted to confirm that they have organised to have both of the Supreme World Ploughing Champions in attendance –Eamonn Tracey and John Whelan. These two world winners have won

the world titles for two years consecutively – in Ireland in 2022 and in Latvia in 2023. Eamonn Tracey from Carlow is champion in the two-furrow conventional and John Whelan is world champion in reversible ploughing.

“It is a great achievement for Ireland to have world title holders and to have their support at our event here in Ballinaheglish”, commented association treasurer Martina Beirne. “It certainly helps to put Ballinaheglish on the map!” To keep up to date with all that’s in store for this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships, find the association on Facebook.

mott’s Bar and Lounge for hosting the launch and also media representatives of the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald who were present.

The association have also expressed their appreciation to Molloy’s Bakery in Roscommon town for donating such beautiful and tasty cakes and buns for the night. An absolutely brilliant night was had by all in attendance, and the association would like to thank all who attended.

The Roscommon Ploughing Association committee/members pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Egan and Kevin Durkin from Longford pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Friday, 26th April at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers

Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

55 Pens on O er

Friday, 3rd May at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks

Also Dry Cows and Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday, 29th May at 5p.m.

Tuesday, 30th April at 4 p.m.

Sale of Weanlings

Bookings accepted until Thursday, 25th April at 5 p.m.

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m.

Saturday, 4th May at 12 Noon

Organic Cattle Sale

Bookings now being accepted ************

Date for Your Diary

Saturday, 1st of June at 11am

Machinery Auction

There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Bullocks. Bullocks fetched an average of €3.12 per kilo up to €4.03 There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.40 per kilo up to €3.20 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

We had a large number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €242.

We had a small number of spring lambs and these topped out at €228. The tops for stag ewes fetched €240. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned

by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: LMX 770kg €2,330, LMX- 700kg €2,130, BAX 660kg €2,000, LMX 640kg €1,390, LMX 625kg €1,550, LMX 590kg €1,300.

Bullocks: LMX 800kg €2,300, CHX 755kg €2,200, CHX 715kg €2,250, CHX 710kg €2,400, LMX 670kg €2,140, LMX 640kg €2,110.

Finished lambs: 71kgs €242, 61kgs €238, 55kgs €235, 53.5kgs €230, 52.4kgs €225, 50kgs €197.

Store lambs: 41.5kgs €190, 40.9kgs €149, 34.5kgs €140.

Cast ewes made from €50 to €240 per lot. Ewes with lambs made from €205 to €400 per lot.

There was a similar number of stock presented for sale on April 18th, with prices and trade similar to last week. Plainer types of stock have seen a price reduction but quality stores remain a firm trade.

The heifer ring reported a good clearance with up to €3.91 a kilo paid for the stores with heavier lots hitting €1990. The weanling rings witnessed the bulls peak at €4.41 a kilo while the heifer weanlings hit €5.72 a kilo. Demand for cows with calves at foot continues to grow with lots making up to €2740 while the dry cows peaked at €2320. The calf trade remains firm with an excellent clearance taking place.

Heifers, sample prices: Lmx 425kgs €1420, Ch 420kgs €1320, Lm 475kgs €1860, AA 495kgs €1540, Ch 470kgs €1480, AA 460kgs €1460, Ch 605kgs €1990, Lm 545kgs €1850, Ch 555kgs €1810, and Ch 535kgs €1730.

Dry cows, sample prices: Ch 795kgs €2030, AA 705kgs €1850, Lm 675kgs €1820, Lm 595kgs €1740, Ch Bull 1025kgs €2320, Fr 430kgs €850, Fr 485kgs €900, and Ch 435kgs €900.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1500 to €2740, springers made from €900 to €1800, dairy cows made from €720 to €1010, and in the case of calves/runners, dairy cross calves made from €4 to €90 with AAx and Hex making from €100 to €275, and continental lots making up to €380. Runners made from €310 to €780.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Chx 275kgs €1200, Ch 265kgs €1170, Sim 295kgs €1070, Lm 360kgs €1520, Ch 365kgs €1440, Lm 340kgs €1390, Lm 405kgs €1350, and Lm 460kgs €1570.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 220kgs €1260, Lm 260kgs €1090, Ch 280kgs €1090, Lm 253kgs €890, Lm 365kgs €1490, Ch 350kgs €1400, AA 355kgs €1040, and Lm 325kgs €1160.

Bullocks

There were 100 bullocks on offer at our recent bullock sale on April 15th, with a good demand on offer for all categories. Quality stores made up to €3.79 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €2300.

Sample prices: Ch 480kgs €1670, Lm 480kgs €1630, AA 495kgs €1520, Ch 535kgs €1750, Lm 580kgs

Lm 565kgs

Lm

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Mondays with our weekly bullock sale and on Thursdays, when we have our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

€2200,

€2040,

620kgs €2300, and AA 645kgs €1930.

Fred Dolan and Des Hunt pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Anne Marie Lambert and Joe Kelly pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Breda Grehan and Ann Lambert pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon Ploughing Association chairperson Ger Grehan and Kevin Durkin from Longford pictured at the launch of the 30th Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Friday in McDermott’s Bar, Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Best of luck to Roscommon Ploughing Association from

New to the market at Remax Team

Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley is delighted to present to the market a twobedroomed, cottage-style residence, which would make for a fantastic renovation project, sitting on private site within easy reach of Roscommon town.

Located at Rathmore, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon (F42 DD37), the property has a BER rating of G and should qualify for Vacant Homes Grant subject to terms and conditions. Nestled on a gorgeous private site, this project offers the perfect canvas for transforming a property into a dream home. With its convenient location near Roscommon town, residents can enjoy the benefits of both a tranquil setting and easy access to urban amenities.

Prospective buyers or investors looking to take advantage of the Vacant Homes Grant programme should carefully

This week, Remax Team Earley are looking for detached properties in the Castlerea area due to a volume of enquiries for properties there over the past number of weeks.

The company advises they have mortgage-approved and cash clients.

“All properties will be considered, and we offer a free appraisal service. No sale,

no fee!”.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact one of the auctioneers – Keith on 086 0848590, Cormac on 086 3519492, or Cathal on 086 1409158.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts Award-winning, critically-acclaimed ‘Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar’ for Arts Centre

Following smash runs at Dublin Fringe and Edinburgh Fringe festivals, Tom Moran is bringing his eponymous ‘Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar’ to Roscommon Arts Centre for a limited run, on Thursday, June 20th

Directed by Davey Kelleher, the award-winning one-man show has delighted audiences and critics alike and will come to Roscommon following its run at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. Tickets for this Tom Moran and Abbbey Theatre coproduction are available directly from Roscommon Arts Centre.

Brimming with compassion and humour, Tom has a story to

tell, some secrets to share and a future to fix. Tom is a selfproclaimed people-pleaser and expert in empathy – but someone who really struggles with the truth – in this hilarious but completely true solo show. It asks, “If I never lied again and was just myself, would any of my loved ones still love me?”

The Irish Independent described it as, “A masterclass” while The Arts Review called it “The most searingly honest and moving show of the year” and gave it five stars.

Commenting, Tom Moran said, “This play possesses every drop of honesty I have. It was written with a thesis in mind,

that human beings only lie in the presence of shame. I wanted to stop lying, to trust who I was. But like so many, guilt and shame held me back. And yet, so vitally, this play had to feel hopeful. Joyous, optimistic, hilarious, real.

“It’s for the peoplepleasers amongst us, for the

self-protective liars. It’s a compassionate journey to a complicated past, to salvage the most beautiful future. I’m delighted to be able to bring this work to audiences in Roscommon”.

For more information and to book tickets, visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

The crowds enjoy the performance by aerial artist, Jenny Tufts during the celebration of World Circus Day, facilitated by Roscommon County Council Arts Office, at Somers Park, Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Brian Farrell

Performers from Síolta Circus entertain the crowds during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Performers from Síolta Circus entertain the crowds during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Young Zoe Croghan pictured enjoying the music at the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Some young people enjoying the entertainment during the World Circus Day event which took place at Somers Park in Castlerea last Saturday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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

Chimney Cleaning Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc.

Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required.

Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and

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

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

NO JOB

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

Are you experiencing di culties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having di culties in relationships at work?

Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

Online counselling available.

Please call Glynis on 085 2514394

email:

downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

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

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

Including: • Hedge

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

• Landscaping

• Timber Decking

• Patios

• General Maintenance

Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496 GARDENING SERVICES

 FOR SALE: 2008 Renault Scenic, 7 seater, N.C.T. until 17/1/25, taxed until 1/10/24, in good running condition, just serviced, extras RW sensors, secure saftey box, running extremely well, gold in colour. 2013 Opel Insignia (New Model), timing belt, oil seal, gearbox all done, running very well, N.C.T. 24/4/24, silver in colour.

Phone: 083 8828882

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, William and Lucy O’Leary, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning

Permission for (a) Alterations and Remodelling of Existing House with Construction of new extension to the side of existing dwelling house and (b) alterations to the existing garage with all associated site development works at Kilgarve Td, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. N41 KN36

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 Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority.

Signed:

Michael Hennessy Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd, 15A North West Business & Technology Park, Castlecarra Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 086 1701549

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Bas Sche er, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission:

1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment system and polishing lter

2. To construct porch extension to front of house,

3. To construct new entrance and driveway and all ancillary site development works at Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon, F42VF62. 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: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470

E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED ROSCOMMON COUNTY

 TO RENT: Room to rent in house in Cloverhill, Wi-Fi, OFCH and solid fuel, shared accommodation. Phone: 087 6056974

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Nicholas Murphy, intend to apply for Planning Permission for development at this site: Cathedral Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 XP27

The development to consist of: The demolition of single storey extensions to the rear of the dwelling and the construction of new single storey extension to the rear, together with all ancillary site works and services.

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 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: Waldron & Associates Architects & Engineers

The Square, Claremorris, Co. Mayo

Tel : 094 9372120 I Fax 094 9372911 info@waldrons.ie www.waldrons.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission is being sought by Byron Distributors Limited to enclose and roof existing yard and storage space, at their premises at Roscommon Business Park, Ballypheasan Td, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected at the o ces of the Planning Authority at Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon during o ce hours 9.30am to 1.00pm, and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to, or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Paul Feeney Consulting Engineers, Unit 1, Riveroaks Centre, Claregalway, Co. Galway.

COUNCIL. Alkermes Pharma Ireland

Limited intend to apply for Planning Permission for development at this site, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37EA09.

The development will consist of the replacement of 5 no. existing signs, comprising 3 no. non-illuminated high level wall mounted signs on the south, east and north facades of existing Building

15, 1 no. illuminated vertical banner sign located at the main entrance o R362 to the north of the site, and 1 no. illuminated vertical banner sign located on the verge of the estate road to the rear entrance to the west of the site. This application relates to development which comprises an activity which holds an Industrial Direct Licence (Reg. No P010002). 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 Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon 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, Frank and Geraldine Tully intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to decommission existing septic tank and percolation area and construct new waste water treatment system and percolation area and associated works at Lisnamult, 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.

USEFUL SERVICES

Local Carpentry Services and Maintenance

Telephone Seamus 089 9851766

USEFUL SERVICES

ROS BRICK LAYING

For all your building needs

Phone Sean: 087

242 1552

property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

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.

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

WARD

John James & Mary

Cornaveagh, Creggs, Roscommon (10th and 7th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of John James who died on 12th February 2014 and his wife Mary who died on 2nd June 2017

Time may pass and fade away

But silent thoughts and memories stay.

Our wish is just a simple prayer

God bless and keep you both in His care.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by their son Seamus, daughter Annette, son-in-law Seamus, grandchildren Aidan, Amanda and Laura and great-grandson Jarlath.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 28th April 2024 at 11.30am.

LAMENT FOR MIKE KILCLINE

Bracknagh, Ballymurry, Co. Roscommon.

28 May 1964 – 29 April 2021

No more - by Mary Kilcline Cody

No more tea in the kitchen

No more humming at the work

No more herding stock in Gailey

No more planting down the Rock.

No more cockshots at the jackdaws

No more car tracks in Rourke’s field

No more swimming in the Shannon

No more hives, or pike or eels.

No more wearing that old jumper

No more cattle, dogs or hay

No more chilblained hands in winter

No more smoking on the sly.

No more soup up in Corbooley

Nor slashing briars in Culleen

No more calling in to Feeragh

No more searching for the spring.

No more Mullagh, no more tractor

No Black Forest on the fridge

No more revving the Toyota

No more working with the lads.

No more stories from the old times

No more laughing fit to cry

No more helping out the neighbours

No more playing twenty-five.

No more blue car in the driveway

No more turf shed stacked and right

No more building, edging, cleaning

No more working day and night.

No more sugar left in Weekfield

No more meetings at the Mart

No more daily slap or riddling

No more kind and gentle heart.

KELLY

Larry Feevaghmore Dysart, Co. Roscommon (27th Anniversary)

Swiftly and quietly the years pass by, Twenty seven years gone in the blink of an eye.

The pain of loss that has eased with time, replaced by precious memories left behind.

Loved and remembered always.

Anniversary Mass on Friday, 26th April, 2024 at 7.30pm in Dysart Church.

No more brave and handsome brother

None more caring, staunch or true Genuine and well-respected Decent, honest, that was you.

You could not stomach hypocrites

Nor plámás, nor fuss, nor guff, A sweet tooth and a cigarette

Home and hearth, they were enough.

What broke your heart, what caused such pain?

These questions they still burn

The grief, the tearing loss and rage

Your funeral watched on zoom.

We did not know that you were suffering

Had something blackened at the core?

No chance to help or hold a hand

Your lonely trek to Bóthar Mór.

Simple things we took for granted

A brother proud on his own land

That dear, familiar image

A smile, a wave, that hand.

Your beloved fields are silent now

Grief infects every waking day

Village, town and county mourn you

Nothing will ever be the same.

No more phone calls near our birthdays

No more hugs or welcome home

No more spectacles like our father

Those glinting eyes, that grin, now gone.

You were the very best of us

Our anchor, breath and bone

We who loved you will not leave you

Though the heart has left the home.

HURLEY

John and May

Kilcroan, Ballymoe. (21st and 5th Anniversaries)

Cherished memory of our parents John who passed away on May 10th, 2003 and May who passed away on April 21st, 2019.

R.I.P.

As long as hearts remember, as long as hearts still care, we do not part with those we love, they are with us every where.

Sadly missed by your daughters Maureen and Nonie, son-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe on Saturday, 27th April at 8pm.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE FINNERTY Marina

Birthday Remembrance for Marina’s upcoming 50th birthday which occurs on 1st of May 2024

Cam, Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Birthday wishes sent to Heaven, from your family below, we miss and love you dearly and we wanted you to know. Your birthday’s not forgotten and your memory, lives on.

We celebrate the life you had even though you’ve gone.

We will always love and miss you and will often shed a tear, and for this extra special birthday and always year after year. xxx

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com

E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

MONTH’S MIND MASS

GAVIGAN Ronan

Doorty, Four Mile House, Roscommon. Who sadly passed away on the 25th March 2024.

MORAN Michael

In loving memory of Michael Moran Grange, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 26th April 2017. (7th Anniversary)

Alone, but never quite alone, I face an empty chair, but sometimes in the silence, I imagine you are there. My companion for so many years, no longer here with me, and yet, in some mysterious way, you keep me company. Deeply missed and forever loved and remembered by his wife Maureen, his sons David and Andrew, his daughter Karen, his grandchildren and the extended Moran and Lohan families.

THANKSGIVINGS

Ronan’s parents, brothers and sister wish to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported us with their kind words, messages, owers, Mass/Sympathy Cards and donations to Duchenne Ireland. A special word of thanks to all of you who travelled far and wide to be with Ronan during his passing and for attending his Funeral.

Our sincere thanks to the Paramedic, Michael Bury for his prompt professional care and dignity that he showed towards Ronan while waiting on the Ambulance to arrive.

To the Nurses, Doctors, Care Givers and Chaplains at the I.C.U. Portiuncula Hospital for their kindness and support they gave to Ronan, his family and loyal friends during that very di cult time.

We will be for ever grateful to A.T. (Aiseanna Tacaiochta) Network, the H.S.E. Care Services, especially Mary Owens Disability Manager and in the past Marian Keegan for their supports and beliefs in Ronan living his life independently, making his own decisions so that Ronan had a ful lled and happy life. Thanks also to the Housing Department sta in Roscommon County Council.

A special word of thanks to Pat Smyth, sta and family Funeral Directors for their compassionate services and to the grave diggers for preparing Ronan’s nal resting place.

To Fr. Pravin and Fr. Eamon Conaty for Ronan’s beautiful Mass on Holy Thursday. To Enya Reilly for the lovely music and singing, to everyone who made Ronan’s Funeral Mass so special. To the Hannon family and sta at Hannon’s Hotel thank you.

We are overwhelmed by the love and supports we have received from our and Ronan’s wonderful neighbours, extended family and friends in Four Mile House and Abbey Court Roscommon and also the compassion and empathy shown by Marcella’s friends and colleagues both past and present at N.L.N. (National Learning Network) and Edmund’s colleagues and friends from the Kilbride Community Center. Apologies if we have omitted to mention any others in this acknowledgement.

As a token of our appreciation to you all, Ronan’s Month’s Mind Mass will be o ered for all your intentions on Sunday, 5th of May at 11am in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House, Roscommon.

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

Our beloved Mike. From your grieving family and all who loved you.

Loved and always remembered by Mum Rose, brothers Martin Patrick and Tomás, sister Carmel, nephews and nieces.

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glori ed, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on us, St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, on the 8th day your prayer will be answered. Never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. K.D.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

MONTH’S MIND MASS COYNE

HENSEY

Elizabeth

Weekfield, Roscommon

Who passed away peacefully on 10th February 2024.

Carmel, Dominic, Luke and extended family of the late Elizabeth Hensey (née Hanly) who passed away on February 10th, are grateful for the kindness and compassion shown to us at this di cult time. We would like to thank everyone who expressed their condolences through all channels.

Thank you to Fr. Daniel Udo a who celebrated Mam’s Mass, to Enya for the beautiful singing, to Smyth’s Undertakers, Pat, Gillian and John for their guidence and support.

To the Palliative Care Team, thank you for all the help in Mam’s time of need, to Dr. Caoimhe Crosbie thank you for your compassion and understanding.

To the sta at Roscommon University Hospital especially the Support Sta thank you for all the support you gave to us both before and after.

To Fr. Sean Beirne who celebrated Mass daily at the Sacred Heart Hospital, where Mam called home for the last three years, thank you. Finally a special word of thanks to the sta and residents of St. Catherine’s Ward, Sacred Heart Hospital there is no words to express how happy Mam was during her stay.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our heartfelt appreciation. The Holy Sacri ce of Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

To us you are someone special, someone kind and true. Never a day begins or ends, without a thought of you.

Elizabeth’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated at the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday, 28th April 2024.

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. Never known to fail. K.D.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Sacred 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. M.C.

John James Milltown, Dysart,

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts, is always kept for you.

Memories are like treads of gold, they never tarnish or grow old, wherever we go, whatever we do, memories keep us close to you.

Deep in our memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away. Each of us in our own way, have special thoughts of you today.

Remembered with love and prayers always by your sister Margaret, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday, 27th April at 7.30pm.

WINSTON

Michael

SWAN (née Lynch)

Lena Abbeytown, Roscommon and 38 Irishtown, Athlone (25th Anniversary occurs on the 28th of April)

In memory of a dear Mother

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal.

Forever in our hearts. Loved and remembered by her family.

KILCLINE

Mike

Bracknagh, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon. (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mike who passed away on April 29th 2021.

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

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your wife Evelyn and son Michael.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, April 27th at 7pm in Knockcroghery Church.

HARLOW Mary

St. Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon (formerly of Quakerstown, Boston, Tubber, Co. Clare) Who passed away on the 30th of April 2023

GACQUIN Bridie

Curnalee, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bridie Gacquin whose 2nd anniversary occurs on 26th April 2024.

We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain. To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. So Rest In Peace dear loved one, and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and sadly missed by her husband Michael and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 28th April at 10am.

Mullymucks, Roscommon 22nd April, 2015 (9th Anniversary)

It doesn’t take a special day to bring you to our minds. For days without a thought of you are very hard to find. You always did your best, your heart was true and tender. You simply lived for those you loved and those you loved remember.

Loved and missed always by family and friends.

On this the First Anniversary of Mary’s passing, beloved Mother of Conleth, Donal, David, Denise, Tomás, Lee, Anne and Corrina, we and all our extended family wish to express our sincere gratitude for the kindness shown to us on the sad loss of our wonderful Mother, Mary. Thank you to all who called to Mary’s home, attended her Funeral, wrote letters, sent cards and owers, brought us food, kept us in your prayers, left messages of condolence online, and for sharing your special memories of Mary. Thank you to our lovely neighbours and friends. It was a great comfort to us knowing that so many people were with us at this very di cult time. We were privileged to have such an exceptional Mother and we wish to thank everyone who contributed to the many diverse aspects of her life which she loved and enjoyed so much.

As a family, we were fortunate that Mary was able to remain in the comfort of her own home and we wish to thank the extraordinary health care professionals and spiritual advisors who guided and supported Mary and her family during this time.

We wish to express our gratitude to everyone for their kindness, support and sympathy in joining us to celebrate our Mother’s life which was a testament to her incredible spirit and beautiful presence. We truly appreciate the immeasurable support we received during Mary’s illness and at the time of her passing. Trusting that this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our sincere appreciation. Mary is missed by us all everyday but her life and our love for Mary is constantly remembered and celebrated in our conversations with family and friends. She continues to touch our lives.

After 46 years, Mary is now re-united with her beloved husband Tommie and her deceased extended family members.

Mary’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 5th of May 2024 at 11.30am.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

MANNION

Carmel

Cartron, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. (18th Anniversary – 1st May 2024)

You can only have one mother, patient, kind and true, no other friend in all the world, will be the same to you.

CORCORAN

Benny

Oran, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Died 27th April 2016

We are sending a dove to Heaven with a parcel on its wings be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses wrapped up in a million hugs to say how much we miss you and to send you all our love.

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

Sadly missed by his wife Anne, sons Mark, Matthew and Dermot, daughter Valerie and daughters-in-law Lucy, Lorraine and Aishling, son-inlaw Sam and grandchildren Aoife and Ben.

KILCLINE Patrick Joseph (P. J.) Roscommon

In loving memory of P.J. who passed away peacefully on 25th March 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

In our Hearts

We thought of you today, but that was nothing new, we thought about you yesterday and days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name, now all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake, with which we’ll never part, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all his family.

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

Sad are the hearts that loved you, silent tears that fall, living our lives without you, is the hardest part of all. You gave us years of happiness, then sorrow came with tears, you left us lovely memories, we will treasure through the years.

Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 27th of April at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. LOCALLY

Loved and missed so much by daughter Sharon and granddaughter Shauna.

THANKSGIVINGS

NOVENA TO ST. MARTHA & ST. CLARE

Oh Saint Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith. I o er up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays. Comfort me in all my di culties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when our Saviour lodged in thy house.

I beseech thee to have denite pity in regards to the favour I ask. Interceed for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon, which thou didst cast at thy feet. Say one Our Father and Three Hail Mary’s. Light a candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made know with the intention of spreading devotion to St. Martha. This Miraculous Saint grants everything before the ve days are ended, no matter how di cult. Ask St. Clare for three favours, one for business, two impossible and nine Hail Marys for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena. Say ‘May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glori ed now and forever, throughout the whole world. Amen’. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. Prayer must be published. K.D.

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. J.D.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. G. O’H.

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. T.M.

NOVENA TO ST. JUDE

O Holy St. Jude! Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor for all who invoke your special patronage in time of need: to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart, and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. (Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s & 3 Gloria’s.) Publication must be promised. This Novena has never been known to fail. I have had my request granted. Publication promised. E.V.

UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY

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

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. E.V. The Abbey

Burke rues missed chances – but says Rossies will ‘get better’

Roscommon manager Davy Burke lamented missed chances when he spoke to the media after the final whistle in last Sunday’s Connacht SFC semi-final at Hyde Park, where visitors Mayo triumphed by 1-15 to 0-13 (see match report on pages 42-43).

“Our performance wasn’t too bad, but our conversion rate probably hurt us in the end. Our execution of our chances wouldn’t be good enough at this level but we created them, so it’s not too bad.

“We dropped four or five short uncharacteristically and we kicked some bad wides. Mayo were good enough defensively but I thought offensively we just didn’t execute well enough. We created a huge amount of opportunities so it’s far from doom and gloom. We’re

sick that we lost at home to our archrivals but we created a huge amount of opportunities and we will get better” he said.

Burke praised his team’s reaction to the early goal from Aidan O’Shea.

“I was delighted with the response to the goal. We settled down well and got some very good scores and played well. We had a couple of really good goal chances and you have to take those at this level”.

The Roscommon manager concluded by looking ahead to the All-Ireland series. “We have four or five weeks now to prepare. We will take a couple of days off. We have a few knocks and injuries but we will go again from the end of the week. We didn’t want to lose here by five points but we have to put it behind us and go again”.

Minors bounce back

Connacht MFC (Round 2)

Roscommon 1-10 Galway 1-7

GAA results

Connacht MFC

Roscommon 1-10 Galway 1-7

Nicky Rackard Cup

Roscommon 4-17 Monaghan 1-16

Connacht SFC Semi-Final

Mayo 1-15

Roscommon 0-13

GAA fixtures

Friday, April 26th

Connacht MFC

At Ballinamore: Roscommon v Leitrim. 6.45 pm

Sunday, April 28th

Nicky Rackard Cup

At Armagh: Roscommon v Armagh.

Following defeat to Mayo in round one, Roscommon got their Connacht Minor Football Championship campaign back on track with a well deserved three-point win against Galway at Dr Hyde Park on Friday night last. The foundations for victory were laid in the first half with a dominant Roscommon display. Alan Conroy’s well-taken goal in the second minute set the tone. Roscommon led by 1-4 to 0-4 at half-time. Galway were better after the break and they narrowed the gap to one a couple of times. With 14 minutes to go a fisted goal from David Kilraine saw the score stand at Roscommon 1-7 Galway 1-6. Points from Keelan Kelly, Ciaran Enright and Eoin Collins ensured a very impressive win for James Duignan’s side. Roscommon: Patrick Gaynor; Liam Finneran, Gordon Casey, Martin Connaughton; Alan Conroy (1-0), Keelan Kelly (0-1), Colin Murray (0-1); Darragh Devaney, Declan Kennedy (0-1); Shay McGuinness (0-2), Eoin Collins (0-1),

Cathal Enright (0-1); Dara Curran (0-2, 1 free), Stephen Tighe, Dean Casey (01, free). Subs: Sean McDonnell for Tighe (h/t), Joe McKeon for Conroy (40), Ciaran Mulry for Enright (50), Sam Malec Hannon for McGuinness (55), Conor Kennedy for Casey (62).

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s Alan Conroy scores his team’s goal during last Friday’s Connacht MFC

game between Roscommon and Galway in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Punchestown Festival starts on Tuesday

Horses

The Punchestown Festival starts on Tuesday featuring the Champion Novice Hurdle, the Champion Steeplechase and the Champion Novice Chase, all Grade 1 races. There are three more Grade 1 races on Wednesday with Novice Hurdle, the Champion Irish National Hunt Flat Race and Punchestown Gold Cup.

This weekend’s racing

This evening (Thursday) a meeting on the level at Tipperary has been cancelled, as has the twoday meeting at Kilbeggan. Racing starts this evening (Thursday) at Wexford with a national hunt card at 4.05 pm.

Racing takes place tomorrow (Friday) on the flat at Cork away at 1.40 pm and a jumping meet at Downpatrick at 4.20 pm.

On Saturday, flat racing at Navan starts at 1.10 pm. No racing on Sunday and Naas starts on Monday evening at 5.20 pm. The Punchestown National Hunt Festival starts on Tuesday.

for

Courses

On TV

ITV are covering five races on the flat from Sandown and two national hunt races from Perth on Friday. With the closing of the national hunt season, ITV cover four races from Sandown on Saturday, and one each from Leicester and Haydock on the flat.

Retirements

Paddy Brennan announced his retirement from the saddle after winning the Weatherite Air Conditioning Handicap Chase on Manothepeople; in the penultimate race at Cheltenham, yesterday week. The 43-year-old Galwegian, born in Ardrahan, has enjoyed a hugely successful career, starting on the flat in Ireland with Jim Bolger before joining Paul Nichols national hunt yard in 2000.

Brennan was Champion Conditional Jockey in 2004/05. He rode 1,516 winners over jumps and nine on the flat. His winners include Imperial Commander in

Short putts

ATHLONE

Athlone Golf Club hosted a presentation of prizes on Friday, April 5th, for the St Patrick’s Day and Easter Weekend, March and April competitions. The sponsors were Marsh Nissan, Savoury Fare, Smith’s SuperValu Monksland, Dooley’s Florists and Milltown Mushrooms.

BOYLE

Voucher competition: The men’s competition next Sunday, April 28th, will be the ‘Voucher’ competition, where the winner gets a voucher for a free single membership for the year.

To be eligible to win this prize your membership must be paid in full if paying annually or direct debits fully up to date if paying by this method. Beginner ladies and children’s lessons recommenced last week. All involved with the club were delighted to see some new faces trying their hand at the game.

Members are advised that the ladies beginner group will be on the course every Wednesday for the next seven weeks between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm.

The children’s golf programme will be on every Saturday between 10.30

the 2010 Gold Cup and Cue Card in the King George at Kempton. Additionally, top French jockey, Olivier Peslier is retiring today (Thursday) after riding at Le Teste in France. The 51-year-old has won four Prix de l’Arcs, the Epsom Derby, the Newmarket 2000 Guineas, and the Japan Cup, as well as being champion jockey four times in his native France.

Racing news

At Tattersalls on Wednesday, the son of Galileo out of Manderlay, Glending Stables’ colt breezed from a 125,000 guineas yearling to 1,000,000 guineas two-yearold. Godolphin out bid AMO Racing to secure probably the last son of Galileo to go through a public auction.

Mullins camp

The Closutton camp showed their intent in the British Trainers title winning a modest £4,356.80 to their tally at Ffos Las, on Monday, when Patrick Mullins rode Rath Gaul Boy to an easy victory

(News from local golf clubs)

am and 11.30 am so the 8th and 9th holes will be closed for this hour.

Members are asked to take this in to consideration if they are planning to play on Saturday mornings.

Thursday competitions: The men’s Thursday competitions have now recommenced and will be played as a 9-hole competition for the next few weeks and will extend to a 12-hole when light allows.

Membership: Membership fees are now due. A full list of the fees and payment arrangements are available on boylegolfclub.com.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

This year Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club we see the inaugural hosting of the OBN Open Series. It is sponsored by OBN Financial Services. We are elevating five independent weekly competitions as qualifying events for the OBN Grand Final on Saturday, September 7th.

We are also making all five Open competitions available for non-Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club members. Entry fees are: member €10; non-member €35 (per competition).

Prizes and further information to follow.

Ladies Club: The ladies club would like to thank the Talbot families for

by Tom Red

in the Novices’ Hurdle. No winners at Perth yesterday but Mullins still scored in the drive for the championship with two seconds and third to slightly increase his lead going into Saturday at Sandown.

On the final day Mullins has a team of 25 horses entered in six of the seven races. He has four in the richest race, the Gold Cup, worth £170,000 and four in the Select Hurdle and five in the Lord Oaksey Chase, both worth £80,000.

Jack Kennedy is set to miss the final day of the season at Punchestown on Saturday May 4th due to suspension. He currently holds a lead of six over Paul Townend in the race for the jockey’s title. But Kennedy will have to sit out the final day of the season with the six-day whip ban picked up for his ride on Firefox in the TrustATrader Top Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree starting that day. It will be a very tight finish to the contest. Townend rode in Perth yesterday and Kennedy was riding at Bellewstown, last night.

their very generous sponsorship of the recent Maria Talbot Perpetual Cup. Congratulations to all the winners, especially the overall winner, Monica Shannon with 39 pts.

Men’s competition: The overall winner of last Thursday’s Men’s Senior competition was Gerry Emmett with a score of 37 pts.

Lotto: Congratulations to Helen O’Malley who was the lucky winner of this week’s lotto worth €375.

Subscriptions: The club would like to thank all the members who have paid their subscriptions for 2024. Our office is open every Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 4 pm if any member would like to call in and pay.

Junior golf: There will be two registration and information evenings for the parents of the junior golfers, on the 27th and 30th of May. It is mandatory that one parent attend one of the evenings for your child to partake in the programme. Junior lessons start on Monday, the 10th of June.

Master Gerry! Congratulations to Gerry McDermott who won first prize of €1,000 in the recent masters competition, with Mark McGovern in second and Aisling Bruen in third. A big thank you to all who supported.

Competition corner

This week, we have the first competition of the year with tickets for Roscommon this year on the 13th May and to win please tell us what horse won the Aintree Grand National in 2024?

DARTS

Answers as usual please on a post card to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@gmail.com by 5.00 pm Wednesday 8th 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.

Hollywood stars take the Shield

The Hollywood Bar in Roscommon recently won the Hannon’s Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Darts League Shield final, which was played in Hannon’s Hotel.

The Cosy Bar from Castlerea took on the Hollywood Bar in the final. Previous meetings between the teams during this year’s league had been tight affairs.

The Cosy had the upper-

hand on both occasions, both times winning on a 4-3 scoreline, but it was the Hollywood Bar that took the all-important victory in the final, winning 4-1 on the night.

The Hollywood raced into a 3-0 lead early on and, as the final was best of seven matches, they were looking comfortable. The Cosy pulled one back in the fourth game to give them-

selves a lifeline but The Hollywood took the fifth game, giving them an unassailable lead which meant that the final two games were not required and The Hollywood were crowned Shield champions. Roscommon Darts wishes to congratulate The Hollywood Bar on their win and to say hard luck to The Cosy Bar after a hardfought final.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

The Hollywood Bar darts team pictured after winning the Roscommon Darts League Shield nal last Saturday.

Pictured during the prize-giving presentation for Athlone Golf Club’s Savoury Fare Women’s 15-hole Singles were (l-r): E Farrell, Captain; C O’Regan, D. Hennelly (sponsor), S McInerney, Y Walsh, Lady Captain; and E Kenny, Club President.

Paddy Brennan waves goodbye to the Cheltenham crowd after riding Manothepeople to victory yesterday week.

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs U-16s win Connacht Plate Final

On one of the best days of the year weather-wise, it also proved to be the best day of the year for the U-16 boys squad when they were victorious on a scoreline of 24-14.

Both teams were showing signs of nerves in the first few minutes but it was the Creggs side who got on the scoreboard first, scoring a converted try early on.

Galway Bay stepped up and responded by scoring two tries and two conversions to go in at the break 14-7 in front.

Creggs made a few changes at half-time and brought on some fresh legs.

Soon after the restart Creggs were temporarily reduced to

14 when one of the players was sin-binned, but it didn’t seem to affect the team as they scored another converted try to level the scores. Creggs pushed on from there and went over for another try, which was converted by Kaylum Curran to give them a 21-14 lead.

Minutes later Curran stepped up again with a brilliant dropgoal to add three more points. The Creggs side played safe for the remainder of the game and wound down the clock for a deserved 24-14 win.

Creggs U-14s Boys: Creggs U-14s Boys travelled to the Dexcom Stadium in Galway last Sunday for the cup final against Ballinasloe RFC.

Ballinasloe dominated the opening half, scoring four tries

to lead 24-0 at the break. Creggs came out fighting in the second half and pulled the score back to 24-12 with two tries, one of which was converted.

Ballinasloe eventually found their rhythm and a penalty fol-

lowed by two more tries left the final score 39-12 in favour of Ballinasloe.

Creggs U-10s: Creggs U-10s attend the Aviva mini rugby blitz at the Aviva stadium last Sunday. 70 players, coaches and parents attended the event and it was a great experience for these youngsters to play at their national stadium. Thanks again to the organisers, coaches and parents for giving these children a most memorable day out.

Creggs U-11s: Creggs U-11s

Young Buccs in double cup success

Connacht U-16 Cup final: Buccaneers retained the Bank of Ireland Connacht U-16 Cup when deservedly coming out on top by 32-10 over Sligo in a lively decider played at a sun-drenched Dexcom Stadium last Sunday.

Two early tries and a penalty set Buccaneers on their way, leading 13-3 after just 15 minutes. A converted try for Sligo before the half-hour mark reduced the gap to just three points but that’s where Sligo’s scoring finished.

Buccs responded instantly with a converted try of their own to leave the score 20-10 at the break. The

Athlonians dominated the second half and ten minutes into this period they scored another try, unconverted this time.

Sligo had no answer to Buccaneers’ attacking rugby and just before the final whistle they scored another converted try to leave the final score 32-10, ensuring that the Enda O’Rourke Memorial Cup remained in Athlone for another year.

Connacht U-18.5 Cup final: Buccaneers dominated the Bank of Ireland Connacht U-18.5 Cup final from the start as this group finally inflicted defeat on their nemesis’ Sligo to forge a convincing 31-14 victory in

glorious sunshine at the Dexcom Stadium last Sunday.

Two unconverted tries within 20 minutes gave Buccs a 10-0 lead and put them in control of game. Ten minutes later they scored another try, this time converted, to give the Athlone team a comfortable 17-0 lead at the break.

The second half was similar to the first with Buccs scoring two more converted tries inside the opening 15 minutes of the restart to give them an unassailable 31-0 advantage with still almost half an hour to play.

Sligo pushed to get back into the contest and were rewarded for their efforts with two late converted tries but it wasn’t enough to catch Buccs. Final score: 31-14.

U-13s Boys: Buccaneers overcame Gort 15-13 in a tight Bank of Ireland U-13 Cup semi-final replay contested at balmy Dubarry Park last Sunday. They now advance to a final meeting against Carrick-onShannon next Sunday with kick-off at the Dexcom Stadium at 12 noon.

‘Give It A Try’ for Girls: ‘Give it a Try’ is a fun introduction to rugby for girls aged 8 to 12 years old. It started at Buccaneers on Monday and will continue for 8 weeks. Cost is only €10.

Summer Camp: Buccaneers Rugby Summer Camp will take place from August 12th to 16th. Contact Geraldine at 086 1732711 to book.

were invited to a blitz in Buccaneers on Saturday. They played against some new teams based outside Connacht, including Seapoint RFC from Dublin and Longford RFC. The weather was amazing and players had a wonderful time.

€20,000 First Prize Development Draw: Tickets are still available for the development draw which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th. Club members are selling tickets or you can purchase on www. creggsrugby.ie

Lotto: The lotto jackpot was not won and has now reached €13,100. Definitely worth a punt! Last week’s lucky dip winner was Frankie White. Please support by joining on www.creggsrugby.ie

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from BUCCANEERS RFC Creggs

The Creggs U-16s Boys team pictured ahead of their U-16s Connacht Plate nal last Saturday against Galway Bay.

The Creggs U-10s pictured during their trip to the Aviva Stadium last Sunday for the Aviva Mini Blitz.

Creggs U-16s boys took on Galway Bay in the Connacht Plate final in Castlebar last Saturday.

Buccs’ U-16s captain Ciaran West is presented with the Enda O’Rourke Memorial Cup by Alan Noone of Bank of Ireland after Buccaneers won the Connacht U-16 Cup nal against Sligo last Sunday.

Buccaneers U-18.5 joint captains Callum Kelly and Danny Reid are presented with the Connacht U-18.5 Cup by Alan Noone of Bank of Ireland after their victory over Sligo last Sunday. Also pictured is Michael O’Hehir, Connacht Rugby President.

The victorious Buccaneers U-18.5 squad celebrate after their Connacht U-18.5 Cup nal win over Sligo last Sunday.

Murray shines as Roscommon win again

Nicky Rackard Cup (Round 2)

Roscommon 4-17 Monaghan 1-16

Roscommon were very impressive 10-point winners against Monaghan in round two of the Nicky Rackard Cup played at sunny Inniskeen on Saturday last.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

GAA action hotting up (a little!)

It was an interesting weekend on the All-Ireland SFC front. I didn’t see the Derry-Donegal game, but wasn’t that surprised to discover that Jim McGuinness’s men had outgunned Mickey Harte’s presumably slightly battle-weary side.

Derry will of course re-group, and there is every likelihood that they will figure prominently in the race for the Sam Maguire Cup.

I felt sorry for Sligo, who came so close to achieving a famous win over Galway (Padraic Joyce’s men winning thanks to a last-gasp goal). Game of the weekend was unquestionably the Cavan-Tyrone thriller – won by the latter county in extratime. Elsewhere, Cork – conquerors of Roscommon last season – confirmed they are a possible emerging force, finishing within three points of Kerry.

Truth be told, Roscommon v Mayo was probably the least entertaining game of the weekend.

There’s no stopping Scottie…

If you want to annoy a professional golfer any time soon (not that you really should), just uttering one word should see you achieve your goal.

While it was a superb team performance from Kevin Sammon’s men, Cian Murray was the star of the show, claiming a total of 3-2 on the day. Monaghan led by 0-8 to 0-5 at the end of the first quarter but Murray’s excellent strike for Roscommon’s first goal in the 26th minute put them ahead. At half-time Roscommon led by 1-9 to 0-10.

Five minutes into the second half Conor Mulry scored another fine goal from a tight angle and Roscommon never looked back after that. In the 53rd minute Cian Murray was on the mark again with Roscommon’s third goal, and in the 61st minute the Athleague man grabbed his third three-pointer and Roscommon’s fourth to seal victory.

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Mark Ward, Declan Leonard, James Dillon; Jack Donnelly, Conor Cosgrave, Jack Dowling (0-1); Darragh Finn (0-1), Cian Murray (3-2); Adam Donnelly, Darragh Mullen, Brian Lawlor; Brendan Mulry (0-2), Jason Martin, Paddy Fallon (0-6, all frees). Subs: Conor Mulry (1-1) for Leonard, Sean Canning (0-1) for Donnelly (h/t), Liam Og Coyle (03, 1 free) for Martin (47), Matthew Comerford for Murray (62), Michael Hussey for Lawlor (65).

That word is ‘Scottie’.

World number one Scottie Scheffler is on an amazing run just now, his peers seemingly powerless in the face of his relentless consistency. Going into last weekend’s RBC Heritage event, the American had won three of the last PGA tour tournaments, and finished second in the fourth. Naturally, he went on and won last weekend too.

That’s four wins for Scheffler in his last five tournaments… and one second place. It’s remarkable dominance, Tiger-esque even. It can’t possibly continue!

U-20s into Connacht final

Well done to Roscommon U-20s on a very impressive win away to Leitrim in midweek last week, a performance and result which ensured that an unusual Connacht campaign culminated

in qualification for the provincial final (Roscommon had drawn their three previous games).

One win in four, but also unbeaten in four, Roscommon’s heads are up, especially in light of that very positive display in Ballinamore. They will take beating in the Connacht final, and Rossies everywhere will be behind them every step of the way.

Nottingham Forest… and THAT tweet

The moment I read the Nottingham Forest tweet, I immediately knew they were in trouble, that emotion had triumphed over reason… you could say that someone at ‘Forest’ had failed to see the wood from the trees… After some controversial VAR decisions in their 2-0 defeat to Everton

in the Premier League on Sunday, relegation-threatened Forest issued an extraordinary tweet on their official account.

It read: ‘Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given –which we simply cannot accept. We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options’.

It was a desperately ill-judged tweet for an official club account to release. Regardless of how unfairly treated Forest may feel, it is unacceptable for them to question the professional integrity of the VAR official. It was, in my view, a defamatory statement, and unbecoming of a famous club.

If one or more of the decisions that went against Forest were bad calls, that’s a separate issue. We all know that VAR calls have led to much controversy and criticism (there was also an

outcry last weekend over the disallowing of a late Coventry ‘goal’ in their FA Cup thriller with Manchester United). So yes, there are legitimate concerns about the VAR system, but for a club to cast such aspersions on the professional integrity of an official as Forest did last weekend is very poor form.

Leighton James will be fondly remembered

I was sorry to hear of the passing of former footballer Leighton James, the flamboyant ex-Welsh international winger who starred for a number of clubs during his career.

James died last Friday, at the age of 71. Capped 54 times by Wales, he was an exciting player, a real fans’ favourite, and will be fondly remembered. May he rest in peace.

The Roscommon senior hurling team (and subs) pictured ahead of last Saturday’s Nicky Rackard Cup game against Monaghan.

Photographed is the Tarmonbarry/Scramogue Community Games U-15 Futsal team (and coach) who were crowned Connacht champions at the weekend.

Loughglynn Boxing Club’s Cillian Godwin moves to avoid the punch of his opponent Peter Kelly during the National Boy & Girl Junior 2 Championship boxing tournament held in Castlerea Boxing Club recently. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Captain fantastic Browne guides Ballaghaderreen to RDFL glory

Ballaghaderreen FC 3 Boyle Celtic 0

Ballaghaderreen FC have been crowned Roscommon & District Football League (RDFL) Premier Division champions for the first time in the club’s history by defeating Boyle Celtic 3-0 in last Sunday at the local Community Park in Ballaghaderreen.

Having only lost two out of 13 league games this season, the home side knew that a positive result would secure them the title. A wonderful second-half display and three goals ensured a historic win for the club.

The first half was a tight affair with Boyle having the best of the chances but the game remained scoreless at the break.

Club captain Danny Browne was the talisman that sparked Ballaghaderreen into life in the second half, being involved in all three goals.

The first goal came from a superb Browne

free-kick on the 50th minute to put them 1-0 up.

Ballaghaderreen pushed on from there and it was another free-kick from Browne that deflected in for an unfortunate Boyle own-goal 10 minutes later that put them two goals ahead.

Their third goal came from yet another Browne free with Cathal Horan getting on the end of it, scoring a quick-thinking backheel to ensure the win for Ballaghaderreen.

Boyle fought back and the game could have finished more dramatically because they put the ball in the back of the Ballaghaderreen net twice but both goals were ruled offside, with Boyle’s Michael Corrigan being red-carded due to his protesting over one of those decisions.

Overall, this was a very memorable win which topped of a brilliant season for Ballaghaderreen.

Dunning’s delight as U-20s into final

Roscommon U-20 football man-

been reflecting on last week’s

performance

Connacht

Leitrim

way or Sligo on Saturday week. Roscommon needed a draw against Leitrim to be certain of qualification for the play-offs. A ten-point win would have seen the team qualify for the final outright, but that was deemed an unlikely outcome. However, a superb attacking display yielded 3-16 on the night and the 13-point win guaranteed a place in the final.

“Ah look, you would have to be

very pleased with a performance like that, especially away from home. But I felt that a good display was coming. We were curtailed over the previous weeks with the very bad weather and I think that it is no coincidence that the first night we had reasonable conditions and a good pitch we were able to cut loose and show what we are capable of”.

Dunning says it was never in anyone’s mind that Roscommon might exceed the ten-point margin that they needed to get into the final.

“I can honestly say that it was nev-

er mentioned once by anyone… players, management or anyone else. We were simply going to go to Ballinamore to get a result and see where that brought us to. We would have been very happy with a semi-final place and at no stage did we take Leitrim for granted. There was no complacency at all. We treated Leitrim with the respect that they deserved”.

Dunning says he is particularly happy with the fact that a number of his subs came on and played well. “We have done a lot of work on the strength of the panel since the start of the year. We have a

number of lads on the panel who don’t even make our match-day 24 that we could bring in and have full confidence in. We have a very talented panel and they have all contributed in the various games to get us to where we are now”.

Looking ahead to the final, Noel Dunning says there is plenty to work on.

“We have plenty of work to do despite the good display against Leitrim. We will have a look at the (other) semi-final and see how that goes. We will prepare well and we are looking forward to the final whoever we are playing in it”.

The Ballaghaderreen FC squad, management and some young fans pictured with the RDFL Premier League trophy after defeating Boyle Celtic 3-0 last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ballaghaderreen’s Shairoze Akram and Boyle Celtic’s Reece Conroy in action during last Sunday’s RDFL Premier League match against Boyle. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ballaghaderreen captain and talisman Danny Browne takes a free-kick during last Sunday’s RDFL Premier League match against Boyle. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

ager Noel Dunning has

stunning

against

ahead of the

final against Gal

Roscommon U-20 football manager Noel Dunning. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

‘We needed to get to final’ – McStay

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Davy Burke reaction:

SEE PAGE 37

Mayo manager Kevin McStay was very happy that his charges have qualified for a Connacht final, despite the narrative that the provincial championships have lost much of their appeal.

“Myself as manager, my coaches, we needed to get to a Connacht final, then you factor in that the rhythm is more to your liking. If you can get the win, it stays at the two-week,

three-week rhythm and that suits the group pretty perfectly. That’s the next challenge now, to stay in control of the schedule.

“If we get the two-week break, we can train Wednesday after Sunday and then Saturday after Wednesday. It’s more advanta-

geous in terms of recovery and preparations”.

The Mayo manager was not impressed with his side’s display in the first half.

“I wasn’t happy with our first half. I’d give it five out of ten at most, but the second half was much better and we drove

on well in the third quarter and overall I’d rate it as a seven out of ten performance – but we have loads of room for improvement. We felt we were the better team for most of the way but we never really hammered it home so we have plenty to work on”.

McStay said that his team would be doing everything they can to try to win the Connacht title.

“It’s full throttle for the provincial final, we believe in the championship, we believe in a cup that we want to bring to Mayo, so we’ll be going flat out for it” he concluded.

Jimmy’s winning matches… but can Donegal overcome Tyrone?

Championship Watch

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Before we look at this weekend’s fixtures, it’s only fair we mention the tactical masterclass carried out by Jimmy McGuinness at Celtic Park last Saturday night. The Donegal manager figured that if the Derry defence

was pressing up high and if their goalkeeper was out the field then his team would kick the ball in long and direct. It produced four goals. Simple, but brilliant. Is it the end of the fly-keeper? We will have to wait and see.

This weekend, all the excitement is likely to once again come from the hurling cham-

pionship. The pressure is on Cork and Clare to win their next game after losses last weekend, so their meeting in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh will be a cliffhanger. If they can put the Limerick defeat behind them, Clare may just have the edge.

Meanwhile, the pressure is off Limerick now after their win against Clare. They should have

enough to defeat Tipp at the Gaelic Grounds. Arguably the big hurling game of the weekend is the clash of Kilkenny and Galway at Nowlan Park. I have a feeling that Henry Shefflin can lead Galway to a surprise win on his old stomping ground. Elsewhere, Wexford will beat Antrim and Dublin will beat Carlow.

In football, Down have improved but Armagh should prove too strong for them in the Ulster semi-final. Kieran McGeeney’s men should win by four or five points. Donegal versus Tyrone is more difficult to predict. The momentum is with Donegal and they may just have enough to get there by a point

or two. It may take extratime.

In Leinster, Kildare will get plenty to think about against Louth. I won’t be a bit surprised if Louth win. Offaly drew the short straw as they have to face Dublin in the other semi-final. It’s a question of how much Dublin want to win by.

Mayo’s Aidan O’Shea tries to get past Roscommon’s Ultan Harney and Enda Smith during last Sunday’s Connacht SFC semi-final in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Mayo reign in the sun

Connacht SFC semi-final Mayo 1-15 Roscommon 0-13

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Last Sunday was another very frustrating day out for Roscommon supporters as missed chances and more tentative play, particularly in the second half, added up to a five-point defeat for the county senior team against Mayo in glorious sunshine at Dr Hyde Park.

That Mayo deserved to win is not in doubt, but Roscommon had more than enough possession to have made this contest closer. Some bad wides, shots for points dropping short, and the missing of two excellent goal chances cost Davy Burke’s men dearly. As it was, the outcome of the match was clear for some time before the final whistle.

Now Roscommon await the draw for the ‘round robin’ competition where they will be third seeds behind the provincial winners and runners-up. Mayo advance to the Connacht final on Sunday week when they will face Galway in Salthill.

The newly-refurbished Dr Hyde Park looked magnificent in the warm sunshine, although it has to be said there was a subdued atmosphere during the match. The attraction of the provincial championships is waning because of the new championship format, and although a crowd of 14,000 is healthy, it was often more like double that for this fixture in the past.

Mayo started the game very well.

Aidan O’Shea, who was winning plenty of ball in the full-forward line, struck for a goal in the 8th minute, the Breaffy man cutting inside from the right wing and firing a left foot shot into the bottom corner past Conor Carroll. By the 13th minute, Mayo were leading by 1-2 to 0-1.

Roscommon came into the match impressively. Diarmuid Murtagh was excellent up front, kicking four superb points (one a free) before half-time to keep Roscommon well in touch.

Eoin McCormack was playing well (again) and the returning Ben O’Carroll was busy up front, picking up lots of possession. However, the St Brigid’s man missed a great goal chance in the 22nd minute after Mayo goalkeeper Colm Reape was dispossessed out the field. The Mayo defence bottled up the Roscommon attacker and the danger was cleared. Still, at half-time Roscommon were in a good position, Mayo ahead by just a point, 1-6 to 0-8.

Daire Cregg equalised with an excellent point on the restart but it was a false dawn for Roscommon. Mayo drove forward after that and enjoyed their best spell. With Ryan O’Donoghue outstanding, they built up their lead with some very well-taken points. Over the next 20 minutes Mayo outscored Roscommon by 0-8 to 0-2 as they took a grip on proceedings.

Roscommon’s play became more

tentative as the game progressed, and although they had chances, a few bad wides and a number of balls kicked in to the arms of Colm Reape didn’t help their cause. There was just no spark to Roscommon’s play in that second half.

With the score at 1-14 to 0-12, Enda Smith had a great goal chance in the 62nd minute but he rushed his kick and blazed wide. It was another indication that it was not going to be Roscommon’s day.

In the end the game petered out and Mayo won without overextending themselves. They should be good enough to defeat Galway in the provincial final, but on the evidence of this display Mayo will have to go up several levels if they are to make progress in the AllIreland series.

It was a disappointing outing for Roscommon. We saw none of the

controlled aggression that was a hallmark of the display in 2023 when they won in Castlebar. Davy Burke now has a month to prepare his team for the All-Ireland series. Eoin McCormack, Niall Daly, Daire Cregg, Diarmuid Murtagh and a clearly rusty Ben O’Carroll were Roscommon’s best performers on the day. When O’Carroll gets more time on the pitch after returning from injury, he will be a huge addition to the team.

The season is certainly not over yet and hopefully the few weeks that Roscommon have until the next game will give some time to re-energise the players, the management, and even the supporters too.

Note: A minute’s silence was observed before last Sunday’s game in memory of the late Tony Whyte, former player and manager with Clann na nGael and Roscommon.

Teams & scorers

Mayo: Colm Reape; Jack Coyne, Rory Brickenden, Sam Callinan; Paddy Durcan (0-1), David McBrien, Donnacha McHugh; Stephen Coen, Matthew Ruane; Jordan Flynn, Ryan O’Donoghue (0-7, 3 frees, 1 mark), Jack Carney; Fergal Boland (0-2), Aidan O’Shea (1-1), Tommy Conroy (0-2). Subs: Enda Hession for McHugh (h/t), Conor Loftus (0-2) for Durcan (47), Bob Tuohy for O’Shea (59), Paul Towey for Flynn (63), Pádraig O’Hora for Coyne (66). Roscommon: Conor Carroll; David Murray, Brian Stack, Niall Higgins; Niall Daly (0-1), Ruaidhrí Fallon, Eoin McCormack (0-1); Enda Smith, Ultan Harney; Dylan Ruane, Daire Cregg (0-4, 2 frees), Ronan Daly; Ben O’Carroll (01), Diarmuid Murtagh (0-5, 2 frees), Donie Smith (0-1). Subs: Patrick Gavin for Murray (29), Tadhg O’Rourke for Ruane (50), Shane Cunnane for Ronan Daly (59), Conor Cox for Donie Smith (63), James Fitzpatrick for Harney (66).

Referee: Séan Hurson (Tyrone).

Stat Attack

Wides: Mayo 5 (3, first half); Roscommon 9 (4, first half)

Red cards: 0

Black cards: 0

Yellow cards: Mayo 0; Roscommon 1 (Donie Smith)

Attendance: 13,967

Man of the Match: Ryan O’Donoghue (Mayo)

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Roscommon’s Ultan Harney and Mayo goalkeeper Colm Reape in action during last Sunday’s Connacht SFC semi-final in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell