26 January 2024 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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26 January 2024

The Local Paper

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

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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I was injured in an accident at my workplace about two weeks ago. Thankfully I was not seriously injured but my work colleague told me afterwards that I should have reported the incident to management. Is this true? I would be interested in your opinion as to what a person should do if they were involved in a workplace accident. If you have suffered an injury at work, there are certain steps you should follow: 1. Report the injury to your employer: Inform your employer as soon as possible of the injury and how it happened. Your employer should record the injury in the accident book and give you a copy of the entry. 2. Seek medical attention: If necessary, seek medical attention for your injury. Your employer should pay for any medical treatment you need as a result of the injury. If your injury prevents you from working for more than 3 days, you should report the injury to the Injuries Board. Your solicitor will assist you with this process if you wish. Your solicitor will also advise you is you are entitled to claim compensation for your injuries and any out-ofpocket expense to include loss of earnings if you are out of work for a period as result of your injury. It is important to note that if you have suffered an injury at work, you should act quickly to protect your rights. The deadline for making a claim for compensation is 2 years from the date of the injury. Please feel free to contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Litigation Department if you would like further advice. Our specialist Personal Injury Solicitors will be happy to advise you.

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He wants us to solve readers’ problems… starting with stacking the dishwater! He’s playing with our minds now… an agony aunt column! Imagine! Worries me too… Yeah, I definitely think he’s toying with the idea of finally dropping us! What happened? Like I said, I just happened to bump into the Editor. We were both out for a walk. At CYCLING ACCIDENT first I didn’t recognise him… Huh? He had a cap on, like yer man in Peaky If you were involved in a cycling Blinders… accident contact SERIOUSLY? Byrne Carolan Yeah! He’s just back from a trip to LiverCunningham Solicitors pool apparently! Okay… So he’s walking down the street, has this ‘Peaky Blinders’ cap on, then when he sees me coming, he tilts it downwards. Trying to avoid me! Oh I doubt it! No, honestly! Well, that’s how it felt… But he DID greet you? Not really! Like I said, he bumped into me! Literally! That cap was lowered so much, he couldn’t see where he was going! And the agony aunt column? Or should I say ‘agony uncle(s)’? Well, I summoned up the courage to make some small talk about our column... Brilliant! ‘Page 2 going well?’ I muttered. And? He started staring in the window of Finn’s shop! Really?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Fixated on a toaster, he was! Or pretending to be! Finally, he says, ‘Page 2’s going okay, but we need to freshen it up…’ AND? I looked at him… Straight in the eye? Well, he still had the cap lowered at that ridiculous angle… Okay! Next thing he says ‘I dunno, maybe we could experiment with you guys solving readers’ problems once a month…’ Wow!

(They pause to check if any trampolines have entered their respective gardens) Later, I get an email from him. Claims it’s a sample of the type of post he receives. Reader: ‘Dear Editor, my husband is driving me crazy. It’s bad enough that he puts the dishes into the dishwater in a haphazard way, but now he’s started to place the bananas in the fruit bowl at erratic angles. How should I handle this?’ Okay… So the Editor has a cover note… he says, ‘So boyo, how would you respond to her, if your column was turned into a problem-solving page?’ AND? I wrote back. ‘Dear Mary of Strokestown…’ Huh? Not her real name… Okay… ‘Dear Mary of Strokestown. I would immediately commence divorce proceedings…’ Wha’? …. ‘either that, or cease buying bananas’. Wha’? Bit of humour! I thought the Editor would like it if we responded to readers’ problems with funny replies! So how did the Editor reply to YOU? Oh he hasn’t yet, I expect he’s busy. Or maybe the storms affected his Wi-Fi… Oh dear, we’re doomed!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Member of the Kilkenny family from Curraghboy taking a selfie in Croke Park last Sunday ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final between St Brigid’s and Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

It’s been a GOOD week for…

☺

Glen and St Thomas’, winners of the All-Ireland Club senior football and hurling titles respectively (the former at the expense of Roscommon champions St Brigid’s, who were so close to winning the crown) Cillian Murphy, who has been nominated for an Oscar in the Best Actor category, this for his performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer

Rory McIllroy, who won the Dubai Desert Classic on Sunday, leaving competitors in his wake and your page 2 columnist suitably chastened (after we kind of questioned Rory’s capacity to successfully close out tournaments in this section last week)

It’s been a BAD week for…

☹

Thousands of householders, with widespread power outages – arising from the impact of Storm Isha – a significant inconvenience for those affected

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

SALE EXTENDED UNTIL SUNDAY 28th JANUARY

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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TOP: Pictured at the formal unveiling of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh’ monument on the Boyle Road roundabout in Roscommon town on Monday were (l-r) Fr Raul Cino, Mark Feeley, sculptor; Larry Brennan, Chairperson, Roscommon Town Team; Cllr Orla Leyden, Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer, Roscommon County Council; Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, Cllr John Keogh, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council; Shane Tiernan, CEO of Roscommon County Council; Cllr Marty McDermott, Marie Gillooly (local historian) and Helen McGinty, Secretary, Roscommon Town Team. Pic: Kieran Croghan RIGHT: Pictured at the formal unveiling of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh’ monument on the Boyle Road roundabout in Roscommon town on Monday were members of the Roscommon Town Team, (l-r) Helen McGinty, Secretary; Larry Brennan, Chairperson; Lucy Tomasiewicz, Marie Gillooly, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Orla Leyden and Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, along with the sculptor, Mark Feeley. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Roscommon’s Declan Kenny pictured with supporters after Roscommon’s victory over Galway in the Connacht FBD League final last Friday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Martin leads tributes to the late Tom Hussey Tributes have been paid to the late Tom Hussey, a former Fianna Fáil politician who was in public life for almost 40 years. The late Mr Hussey, of Patch, Glenamaddy, Co Galway, died peacefully on Sunday, 21st of January. He served as a TD, Senator and county councillor during the course of a long political career. Tánaiste and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said the late Tom Hussey was a “deeply committed” public representative who cared deeply about his community, county and country. Deputy Martin said: “Tom was a man of great integrity, a man with a great sense of place and was a truly outstanding public representative, who served the people of his constituency with great care, diligence and attentiveness. “He loved people and loved working for them. A warm-hearted and affable man, Tom was in public life for all the right reasons and was tireless in working to improve the lives of those he represented”. Also paying tribute, Senator Eugene Murphy said that the late Tom Hussey had given long and loyal service

The late Tom Hussey (RIP).

to the people of this region, representing the public as “a councillor, Senator, TD, Parliamentary Secretary and Minister of State”. Senator Murphy added: “Tom was a passionate fighter for rural Ireland and right up to recent times he continued to speak up for communities in the West of Ireland”. Senator Murphy also fondly recalled the late Mr Hussey’s love of the land and of horses. A Galway county councillor from

1963 through to 1999, the late Mr Hussey was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1969 in the then Galway North-East constituency. He continued to represent the Galway East constituency until 1981. He served as Senator between 1981 and 1993. He served as Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council on a number of occasions. Mr Hussey also served as Chairperson of the Western Health Board a number of times. He was appointed Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture between 1977 and 1980 and in the Department of Health until 1981. In recent years, Mr Hussey (87) served as President of the Fianna Fáil organisation in the Roscommon Galway constituency. Mr Hussey died peacefully at UCHG, Galway. He is mourned by his wife Bridie, sons James, Thomas, Paul and Ciarán, daughters Sinéad and Triona, sisters Annie and Rosaleen, extended family and friends. Removal to Divilly’s Funeral Home, Glenamaddy took place on Tuesday evening. Funeral Mass on Wednesday at St Patrick’s Church in Glenamaddy was followed by burial in Boyounagh Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

NewsPeople

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

THURSDAY Liverpool calling

A relaxing Ryanair flight from the wonderful Ireland West (Knock) Airport brings us to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Unsurprisingly, it would be the first of many John Lennon references over the following days. A bus (impressively, it wasn’t named after any of the Beatles) then took us to within walking distance of our accommodation, the centrally located (but apostrophe-less) Hard Days Night Hotel. And so began our January break in Liverpool…

FRIDAY In footsteps of ‘Fab Four’

The location of the Hard Days Night Hotel – which is heavily (but tastefully) Beatles-themed – really is perfect if your aim is easy access to many of Liverpool’s leading attractions and amenities. It’s barely a two-minute walk to the legendary Cavern Club… and a vibrant, nostalgia-fuelled strip of Beatles-commemorating bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. Walk in the opposite direction from this fine hotel and you’re into the heart of the extremely impressive Liverpool One Shopping Centre, complete with over 170 outlets (and a buzzing atmosphere). Meanwhile, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the aesthetically pleasing Royal Albert Dock, which overlooks the famous River Mersey. The ‘Albert Dock’ is home to a number of museums, galleries, bars and shops, and is now one of the top tourist attractions in north-west England. Before exploring ‘Museum Central’, we took a ‘Magical

Mystery Bus Tour’ (Spoiler alert: There will be many more Beatles’ references in this column). This was very enjoyable, taking guests to Penny Lane, ‘Strawberry Field’ and other landmarks mentioned in Beatles’ songs, and including stop-offs at the respective childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. With our excellent guide (a Liverpudlian who told us he can claim ancestral roots to Michael Collins) being full of interesting facts about the greatest rock/pop band of all time, this was a fascinating trip in the footsteps of cultural icons. Passing an undistinguished looking cemetery, our guide casually informed us that John Lennon’s mother (Julia), TV personality Cilla Black and comedy genius Sir Ken Dodd are all laid to rest there (unforgivably, the driver didn’t give us an opportunity to hop off the bus and pay homage at Sir Ken’s grave). Later, a ferry trip – ‘Cross the Mersey’ as the great Gerry Marsden sang – was relaxing and informative, our guide there informing us that 75% of Liverpool’s population claim some degree of Irish ancestry. A statistic that was only slightly surprising, for this is indeed an ‘Irish city’ on UK soil.

Tonight, after a meal in one of the many nearby restaurants, we literally followed in the footsteps of John, Paul, George and Ringo – enjoying a great night in the atmospheric Cavern Club, where the Beatles were discovered by Brian Epstein (who would become their manager). Over a short space of time, the Beatles played 292 live gigs in the Cavern nightclub, situated in Mathew Street. There are lots of lifesize statues of the Beatles, and one of another Liverpool icon, Cilla Black. Still a live music venue, the Cavern is a historic and evocative link with the Fab Four, and if you’re visiting Liverpool you really should try to get to it. When the energetic live band finished tonight, the Cavern moved on to a playlist of familiar classics. In front of us, a youth of about 19 years of age was with his grandfather (we got chatting to them later), the elderly man a sprightly enough gent who was coping with the noise, his evident tiredness, and the incoming beers… by living in the moment and simultaneously going back in time… enthusiastically hailing each familiar classic song that he recognised. As the hits reached a crescendo, grandson and grandfather embraced, the two

of them clapping and singing along, cherished memories forming live from the Cavern.

SATURDAY Royal Albert Dock

There are excellent museums at the Royal Albert Dock, with admission to all free of charge. The topics covered range from Liverpool’s role in transatlantic slavery (Liverpool’s ships and merchants dominated the transatlantic slave trade in the second half of the 18th century) to a section on the city’s Titanic links. Needless to say, there’s a superb ‘Beatles Story’ museum there too! Later, the pubs are lively, with live music blasting from the various establishments in Mathew Street. We join the revellers, all of whom are very friendly. The pint is very reasonably priced (ranging from £3.50 to £4.50).

SUNDAY Happiness is…

As the winds began to rumble over the Mersey – but before the full ferocity of Storm Isha struck – we

joined throngs of visitors at the ‘Museum of Liverpool’. This venue celebrates ‘Liverpool and its people’ with a fantastic series of tributes to the city’s numerous cultural, sporting and entertainment figures over the years. Liverpool and Everton football clubs feature prominently. Much to my delight, there was one exhibition entirely dedicated to the great, late Sir Ken Dodd. ‘Happiness!’ celebrates the life and career of the legendary comedian, with many of his original costumes, awards and personal writings on display. In the afternoon, we popped into a lovely local pub for lunch. The Liverpool supporters began to gather to watch their team’s Premier League game away to Bournemouth (live on Sky Sports). I too had the day’s big game on my mind. Hence, my laptop was propped on the table, ready for the afternoon’s sporting drama. The Liverpool fans cheered the league leaders on to a routine 4-0 win. Our eyes remained on the laptop… and St Brigid’s v Glen.

MONDAY Long and winding road…

Our flight to Knock was delayed by nearly two hours, almost of all of which we spent standing in a tedious (and tiring) boarding queue. Worse was the plight of four ladies who had been told at Liverpool Airport that their flight back to Dublin was cancelled. Stranded, they ended up flying to Knock instead, and now had to find their own way back to Dublin (presumably by hiring a car). It was only 3 pm, but it must already have felt like a hard day’s night.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

NewsPeople

Latest date for receipt of County Fleadh entries Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin 2024 will be held in Ail Finn/ Elphin over the Easter Weekend, with the competitions taking place on the Monday. Details of venues and other activities will be available to see in local newspaper adver-

tisements at a later date. Entries should reach your local Comhaltas branch rúnaí/ secretary not later than 15th of February 2024. Updated entry forms will be available to download from Facebook page comhaltas bhaile ros co-

main, in the very near future. Entries may be sent to Peadar Brandon, Cloverhill (090 66 25382) or to Bill Cunningham, 1 Cloonbrackna Avenue (086 3345 817). As usual, late entries will not be accepted.

ROMANCE AT THE ABBEY

Celebrate Valentines with your loved one at the Abbey Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s dinner with a complimentary glass of bubbles and chocolates. Romantic couples can enjoy post dinner drinks and music in our front bar from 9.30 p.m on February 14th. Booking is essential. Please email events@abbeyhotel.ie There will be a Special Valentines Menu available from Wednesday February 14th to Saturday February 17th.

LL AROU E IS ATHIS V O ND L

Valentine’s Day

at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Dinner with a Complimentary Glass of Bubbly and Chocolates. Enjoy post dinner drinks and music in our front bar from 9.30 p.m on Feb 14th. Booking essential.

Email events@abbeyhotel.ie Special Valentines Menu will be available from 14th Feb – Saturday 17th Feb Special overnight rates available DBB from €240 based on 2 adults sharing

Tel. 090 6626240

Members of the O’Connor family and the Kilcommons family from Kiltoom pictured outside Croke Park before the All-Ireland Club SFC final between St Brigid’s and Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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NewsPeople newsbriefs Roscommon Ploughing Association Table Quiz Roscommon Ploughing Association are hosting a Monster Table Quiz in the Jailhouse Bar, Castle Street, Roscommon, on Friday, February 16th 2024, at 9 pm. All support on the night much appreciated.

Roscommon Garden Club meeting

Roscommon Garden Club will hold its next meeting on Monday, January 29th, at 8 pm in Hannon’s Hotel. Paul Smyth from Bellefield will give a talk on snowdrops and spring bulbs. All are welcome to attend.

Monster Auction in aid of St Dominic’s GAA

South Roscommon works ‘ensures sustainable water supply for generations’ 2024 has got off to a good start for South Roscommon, with the community in Ardnanure enjoying a more reliable water supply. That’s according to Uisce Éireann, with the company issuing an update on recent works carried out there. Before the turn of the year, Uisce Éireann replaced more than 3km of old water mains along the Rooskagh Ardkeenan Road, which was to

blame for leakage. Uisce Éireann said that the new pipework that’s been put in has not only put a stop to the loss of treated drinking water, but has given locals a more sustainable and reliable water supply for generations to come. Uisce Éireann’s Enda Mac Namara thanked the community for their support while works – which were carried out under the National Leakage Re-

duction Programme – were ongoing in the second half of last year. “This section of water mains was prioritised for investment and replacement by Uisce Éireann due to its age and deteriorating condition, resulting in supply interruptions to homes and businesses. The work will have major benefits for the community going forward”, he said. He continued: “Some final reinstate-

ment works remain outstanding and will be completed in spring when the weather allows. “The Roscommon project forms part of Uisce Eireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme and will help us achieve our 2030 goal of a national leakage rate of 25%. The National Leakage Reduction team has made great strides since 2018 when the leakage rate stood at 46%”.

Get your bidding arms exercised and prepare to raise your bidding number high, as ‘Air of Mystery’ – aka Ann Murray and John Murray – are hosting a monster fundraising auction in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery on this Saturday, 27th of January at 9 pm sharp. This is in aid of the St Dominic’s GAA Club Lip Sync fundraising project. With an expected 60/70 lots, including a signed Roscommon jersey, sports vouchers, various annual local lotto tickets, agri supplies, livestock, fuel supplies, beauty and meal vouchers, kids’ party vouchers and much, much more, it is undoubtedly going to create a great buzz around the village on the night. For anyone wishing to donate an auction lot in advance of the night, please contact Ann Murray on 086 3749149. A credit/debit card machine will be on site on the night to accept payment. All items will be shown on screen on the night, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, enjoy your drink and have a bid for a good cause.

Glanduff National School SPRING FLOWERS PLANT NOW Now accepting enrolments for September 2024

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Unleash the potential with your team, your school, and your community at Roscommon Credit Union Schools Quiz 2024

Roscommon Credit Union has invited primary schools in Roscommon town, Ballaghaderreen, Elphin and Strokestown to join our Credit Union Schools Quiz 2024 on Sunday, January 28th at Kilbride Community Centre. The winning teams will advance to the regional stage in early March. In this nerve-racking clash of wits, they will go head-tohead with other formidable teams, creating an exhilarating competition. The goal is to reach the Grand Final at the RDS, Dublin in April. Last year our Schools Quiz took place in Kilbride Community Centre on Sunday, January 29th 2023. Lisaniskey NS pupils were awarded first place in Competition B (U-13s age category), the pupils of St Attracta’s NS in Ballaghaderreen were awarded second place and the pupils of Gaelscoil de Hide won third place. The pupils of Gaelscoil de Hide also won second place in Competition A (U-11s age category), and the pupils of Athleague National School won third place in Competition. Lisaniskey NS, along with their Principal Noel Dervan, continued to the next stage of ‘Chapter 15’ where they represented Roscommon Credit Union in the Credit Union Schools Quiz 2023 and won first place. They competed against 41 other teams to win the title. Following on from their win, Lisaniskey NS then qualiADVERTORIAL

Enrolment in Ballagh NS in 2024/2025 Ballagh National School, Ballagh, Kilrooskey, is a mixed primary school located just 8km from Roscommon town. Our homely school community offers students a broad and holistic education that is firmly rooted in Christian values in a caring and nurturing environment. This sense of community is a central feature of life in Ballagh National School. We know each one of our students personally, thus ensuring that each child reaches their maximum potential. As a learning community we aim to prepare students for life beyond primary school and we have high expectations for all our students in all areas of school life. We pride ourselves on our interest in the STEM subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We have recently been awarded extra funding from the Department of Education, which we are using to purchase LEGO robotic kits and extra iPads. The children in our school are very fortunate to avail of all these wonderful resources which may lead many of them on their future career path. On a daily basis, technology is integrated into teaching and cooperative group work sessions. All classes enjoy coding and programming skills using apps and LEGO kits to foster problem-solving and teamwork. We are lucky enough to find ourselves in the unique position

Our senior students who took part in the ‘Say Yes to Languages’ programme in December.

Our students supporting the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

of becoming one of first schools nationally to have achieved Digital School of Distinction status. We enjoy the Scríobh Leabhar project, which aims to awake pupils’ interest in the Irish language by encouraging them to design and write their own Irish books. Our students are safe and happy. They are encouraged to develop their own individual talents such as art, music, song, drama and dance, all of which are an integral part of cultural life in Ballagh. Students can participate and compete in a broad range of sports and physical activities

and we are delighted with our new facility – our state-of-the-art Astro Turf pitch. We have regular soccer, gaelic, rugby, basketball and rounders training, as well as swimming lessons every year. Our senior room recently completed the ‘Say Yes to Languages’ programme where the children had a French tutor for the duration of the eight-week programme. It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to gain experience in learning a new language. The children were praised for their enthusiasm and engagement in lessons and they finished up their

last lesson with a rendition of ‘Vive le Vent’ (Jingle Bells in French). Bravo á tous. We in Ballagh NS are focused on health and wellbeing. We are currently developing our outdoor classroom/wellbeing area and we also implement a positive psychology called the ‘Weaving Well Being Programme’ which aims to enhance wellbeing and mental health in primary pupils. We have a sensory room where children can retreat to a calm space devoted to relaxing and developing the senses and we are also fortunate to have a thriving school garden. Finally, we have a very active and supportive Parent Association who do great work and are on hand to help out at all school functions. So, if you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2024 or 2025, we invite you to come along, with your child, to view the school and meet the teachers. We look forward to welcoming you on Tuesday, February 6th from 6.30 pm-7.30 pm. If you cannot attend on this date, please contact the school office to arrange another suitable time to view our school. Contact us: If you have any queries, please feel free to call school office on (090) (6625884). Email: ballaghns1@gmail.com Website: www.ballaghns.ie Facebook – Ballagh National School

fied for the next stage, entering the U-13s age category in the National Final of the Credit Union Schools Quiz 2023, which took place in the RDS last April. We are super proud of their accomplishments to date, having won at both local and regional level, and then representing Roscommon Credit Union at national level. *Follow the Schools Quiz on our social media channels… Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

About the All-Ireland Credit Union Schools’ Quiz The winning teams at the national finals will receive €1,250 per school, with the runner-up teams in each category receiving €750 for their schools, adding up to a fantastic prize of €4,000. Local winners will receive a trophy from Roscommon Credit Union and some other goodies. Regional winners will also receive prizes and their schools will win prizes. The national winners and runners-up receive a trophy, significant personal prizes for each team, and their schools are each awarded a substantial cheque. Every team competing receives a special certificate marking their achievement.

Ballagh N.S. Kilrooskey Co. Roscommon F42 CF90

Ballagh National School are

Now accepting enrolments for

SEPTEMBER 2024 / 2025

OPEN EVENING on

Tuesday, 6th Feb. 6.30pm - 7.30pm If you cannot attend on this date, please contact the school office to arrange another suitable time to view our school

Application form for admission is available as follows: Download at: www.ballaghns.ie Request by email at: ballaghns1@gmail.com

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS

16th February 2024

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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New funding to boost female and diverse participation in local elections < EMMETT CORCORAN

Pictured is Emma Silke, daughter of Rory and Laura Silke, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon, who graduated recently from University of Galway with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree.

The Minister for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell TD, recently announced a significant funding initiative aimed at increasing female and diverse participation in Ireland’s local elections in June 2024. A total of €230,372 has been allocated to nine political parties and independents,

marking a strategic move to encourage a broader representation in the upcoming local elections. Minister O’Donnell highlighted the critical role of political parties in fostering diversity at the local level: “Research from my department shows that political parties are pivotal in encouraging diverse participation. This funding will help them support and prepare candidates, ensuring they run confident and successful campaigns”.

Political parties and independent groups were encouraged to apply for funding to support activities specifically aimed at increasing female and diverse participation. The funded initiatives include appointing equality and diversity officers, organising women’s conferences, and providing training for potential candidates. Emphasising the importance of this initiative, Minister O’Donnell expressed his satisfaction with the collaborative

efforts between his department and political parties: “Since 2019, we have been offering funding under this scheme, and I am delighted that this year we have the highest funding to date. These proposals should significantly contribute to the local elections in 2024”. The minister’s ambition is clear: “My strong ambition for 2024 is to achieve more equal, accessible, and sustainable local government for all”.

Addressing safety concerns near Cloonfour National School

THE BRIDGE CLUB The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon and Happy ‘71 Bridge Clubs (John Coleman Cup, teams of four) – 1st: Tommie Murphy, June Halliday, Goretti Kenny and Mary Fallon; 2nd: Anne Kilduff, Celia Ansboro, Chris and John McGrath; 3rd: Mary and Terry O’Keeffe, Carmel Plunkett and Joan O’Shea. St Coman’s Bridge Club – 1st: Ann Shine and Mary Naughton; 2nd: Maria Hickey and Gertie Spillane; Gross: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro. Ballymurray Bridge Club – (North/South) 1st: Marie McSharry and Paraic Brennan; 2nd: Jill Farrell and Pat Lyons; Gross: Mary Law and Susan Farrell. (East/West) 1st: Marion Byrne and Paula Whyte; 2nd: Mary Naughton and Kitty Gately; Gross: George Bannon and John O’Gara.

Eabha Nolan, Emily Martin, Paul Barrett, Aoife Martin and Geraldine Nolan flying the flags for St Brigid’s outside Croke Park last Sunday before the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Cllr Tom Crosby says that Roscommon County Council has agreed to put in place safety measures on the approaches to Cloonfour National School on the Rooskey to Tarmonbarry Road. This, he says, follows his ongoing representations to the Council on this issue. The safety measures will include new warning signs and road markings extending a few hundred metres past the turns on the road on both approaches to the school, as well as upgrading the flashing warning lights. Cllr Crosby says these safety measures will be very much welcomed by the pupils, teachers and parents who had raised the matter with him.

Largest ever group training for annual Roscommon Community Challenge Training for the Roscommon Community Challenge 2024 is now well underway, with in excess of 140 people having signed up to take part in the twiceweekly training programme – the largest number ever. The event itself takes place on Friday night, March 1st, at 8 pm. This event, which always heralds the start of the sporting calendar in Roscommon, involves a moonlight walk/run around Roscommon Town. This year, along with the usual 5k distance, organisers have introduced a new 8km route, both starting and finishing at the Roscommon Community Sports Park building. This community event is for everyone – walkers, runners, joggers, individuals, teams, and families, those that have never run either a 5 or 8k before, those looking to set a time for 2024, and those that would like to improve on timings. Without doubt, none of this would be possible without the encouragement and professionalism of Ro-

scommon Sports Partnership and organisers are extremely grateful to Coordinator Noel Feeley and his staff David Brady, Atila Tavares and Martin Hannon for all their support. Extending a word of thanks to all who help with the running of the event, organiser Jacqueline McCormack is currently recruiting volunteers to help out on the night. As usual, businesses are offered an opportunity to promote their business with an attractive sponsorship option. For further details on both, please contact Jacqueline on 086 1721181. Registration for the event can be done online via Eventbrite. The link to register can be found on the Roscommon Community Challenge and Roscommon Sports Partnership Facebook pages and on rosactive.org. Check out our social media sites – Roscommon Community Challenge 2024 – for further information.

This year’s beneficiaries Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Community Sports Park are the chosen charities this year. Roscommon Special Olympics are a remarkable group of athletes, and the club are delighted to be the beneficiaries of this year’s Community Challenge. There is a thriving club within the town with bowlers and swimmers meeting every week. Meanwhile, the club are looking forward to resuming on the AstroTurf pitch at Roscommon Community Sports Park shortly. Roscommon Special Olympics are incredibly grateful to the Community Sports Park for the use of their facilities throughout the

year. This event is especially important to the club and proceeds will enable the continued provision of sports to a most wonderful bunch of fantastic athletes. The second charity is Roscommon Community Sports Park (RCSP). This is a wonderful facility and a great example of true community spirit. The building is a busy location and is used by a variety of community groups.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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ATHLEAGUE BINGO – NEXT BINGO – TUESDAY 30th JAN. at 8.30pm Eircode: F42 P440

Jackpot €2,900 (on 48 numbers)

Castlecoote Lodge Bar & Lounge

Irish Trad Session THIS FRIDAY, 26th Jan from 9.30 pm All welcome to join in/ enjoy Refreshments served

Fergal takes on ‘Rossie to Aussie’ Challenge for Hospice 25-year-old Fergal Guihen from Arigna, Co Roscommon is planning to cycle 23,000km from Roscommon to Australia – taking a total of 11 months to complete the journey. Fergal, a nurse in Sligo General Hospital, will leave Roscommon in early March and will reach Australia in February of 2025. In the process, he’s raising funds for well-known local charity, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation. Fergal, who worked in St James’ Hospital, Trinity College and now in Sligo General Hospital’s emergency department, will average 100km a day, taking in 25 countries and three continents –

and he’s hoping to finish the trip at the iconic Sydney Opera House. In his spare time, Fergal is a part-time farmer, plays GAA for St Ronan’s and enjoys running. Fergal said: “I decided to do this trip as a lot of my friends and colleagues are either gone to or are heading to Australia for two years. Instead of spending two years in Australia I thought why not cycle there as it’s a great opportunity to see the world and then spend a year in Australia”. He continued: “This challenge is no doubt going to be the hardest thing I have ever done. The longest cycling trip I’ve done was about two weeks long so this is

certainly going to be very different, but I’m very much looking forward to it. I’ll be doing a lot of the trip by myself, but friends will join me across Europe. “I’m funding the trip myself and will live a very minimalistic life. I’ll be bringing my tent and hot stove with me. I had a thought that I may as well incorporate a fundraising element into it, so I’ve chosen the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, as I want to give back to my local community. The Foundation provides vital palliative care services to the communities of Mayo and Roscommon and my great-granny benefited from

those services in Roscommon”. CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, Martina Jennings, said: “We wish Fergal all the very best on his Rossie to Aussie adventure. We are very grateful to be one of his chosen charities and we look forward to watching him on his journey over the next 11 months and beyond”. All funds raised make a huge difference to our patients, who have life-limiting illnesses, ensuring we provide the best facilities possible to both them and their families”. *You can donate to Fergal’s challenge by logging onto https://www. idonate.ie/Rossie-to-Aussie

Perfect venue for your Birthday Party or to celebrate any Special Occasion (30 to 50 people) Great venue, warm welcome, food platters free to all groups booked

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

newsbriefs New Amateur Writers’ Group Would you like to join our new Amateur Writers’ Group for adults in Roscommon Library? The first meeting will take place on this Saturday, January 27th, from 11 am to 1 pm, and the group will meet on the fourth Saturday of every month after that. Come along, have a cuppa and meet other writers. All you need to bring is a pen, a notebook – and an open mind! If you would like to join this group, please email library@roscommoncoco.ie or phone (090) 6637277.

Convent of Mercy Church gate collection

Fergal Guihen from Arigna, Co Roscommon is taking on the ‘Rossie to Aussie’ Challenge in aid of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

The Convent of Mercy Secondary School Roscommon Parents’ Association are holding their annual church gate collection this weekend – January 27th and 28th – in Roscommon parishes. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Storm Isha rages, while Glen take wind out of St Brigid’s’ sails Our man Frank on a stormy week; glory for St Thomas’, heartbreak for St Brigid’s; The drugs that went missing from a garda station… and local issues It’s Sunday afternoon as I write, and Storm Isha is feeling its way outside – but while it’s wild, windy and wet, its full ferocity hasn’t

yet hit. Creggs Rugby Club’s first team were due to be playing in the quarter-final of the Junior Cup in Clifden this afternoon but, with unusual foresight, the Connacht IRFU branch called off all fixtures in the province on Saturday evening, thereby saving everyone the hassle of wondering whether or not the game would take place. At the best of times the west coast of Ireland can be a difficult enough place weather-wise, but with a storm on the way Clifden would not be an ideal place to have to go to, so credit to the powers that be for taking the wise decision so early and

putting the safety of players, supporters and officials first. I haven’t always been a fan of the Connacht branch, but in this instance full marks to them for showing a large helping of cop on and taking decisive action in cancelling fixtures in good time. It’s now just after 5 o’clock on Sunday evening and I have just watched St Brigid’s suffer a heartbreaking loss in the All-Ireland club football final up in Croke Park. Despite (in my opinion) being the better team, they fell to Derry champions Glen by a single point. I thought the GAA would have

postponed the club finals, as despite not having a red storm warning in the Capital, there were numerous flights cancelled out of Dublin and at least seven planes couldn’t land because it was so windy (so I was surprised the games went ahead). In fairness, the conditions – while very wet and windy – didn’t spoil the quality of either game. Galway’s St Thomas’s won the hurling when they saw off Kilkenny’s O’Loughlin Gaels by a single point. It would have been a terrible game to lose for the Galway men, as once again (in my opinion) at least one Gaels’ player (and possibly two) should

have got a red card in the opening minutes. The number 7 definitely should have walked for an altercation, but having got away with it, he went on to score some vital points from play afterwards. Had his team won it would have been a highly controversial victory, but the Kilchreest men were not to be denied and ground out a famous win. What a pity St Brigid’s just failed to bring off a wonderful double for the west of Ireland. They did themselves and Roscommon proud, but I know that will be of no consolation as they come to terms with what might, could, and should have been.

Ladies Night in aid of Creggs NS

It has been reported that €100,000 worth of cannabis allegedly went missing from a garda station in Leinster.

The drugs that went missing from a garda station…

One of the great ongoing stories in this country is the war that is being waged on drug gangs and their warlords. In recent times we have been told that moves are afoot to extradite some of the top members of the Kinahan crime gang from the United Arab Emirates to face legal proceedings here in Ireland. I have to say I’ll believe it when I see it, but that’s what the Gardaí are indicating is happening. Regardless of whether the extradition ever happens, it is an undisputed fact that our law enforcement people – whether army, customs or gardaí – have made huge drug confiscations in recent times, topped off by the seizure of 2,000 tons of cocaine from the

MV Matthew off the Cork coast last September. The seizure of cocaine worth €157 million was seismic in the fight against drug importation, and a huge blow to the organised crime gang behind it. In contrast to those larger hauls, €100,000 worth of cannabis is really only a drop in the ocean, but nonetheless €100,000 worth of ‘product’ is not insignificant. So, for cannabis worth that much to have gone missing from a garda station in Leinster last week has to be of major embarrassment to the force, and its embattled chief, Drew Harris. The Gardaí have said they will carry out a thorough investigation into the disappearance of the

drugs, but the finger of suspicion is allegedly falling on someone with ‘inside knowledge’. They searched outhouses, bins and dumpsters in the hope that someone perhaps threw the drugs out by mistake, but sadly nothing was found. The most obvious theory is that someone saw a chance to make a few handy bob for themselves, but there is also a fear that a member of the force might have been blackmailed into taking them. I wonder where that bigger haul of €157 million worth of the stuff is being stored? I hope they have a better security system there, because there would be some crack/ craic (bad pun) if that haul disappeared.

For 15 years or so a few of us ran a fundraising dance for Cancer Care West and the Lourdes Invalid Fund. Funny enough, one of the most enjoyable aspects of it all was going door to door to sell tickets. Despite the commonly held theory that door to door ticket sellers aren’t too popular and should perhaps have the dog set upon them, nothing could be further from the truth. Certainly my experience, and that of our other sellers, was the opposite of that. In almost every single case people were most welcoming, and in lots of instances out the country, they were delighted that anyone would call, even if the visit might cost them a few bob! Loneliness is a big problem in rural Ireland, and the rise and popularity of men’s sheds (in my opinion they should be community sheds, open to people of both sexes) has helped to address it for a number of our elderly citizens. In our area, there are sheds in Ballygar, Roscommon, Mountbellew and Dunmore, and maybe it’s time to have a look at forming one in Creggs. Going back to the fundraising dances… Covid put paid to them in 2019, and so for the last four years we have held no function, mainly because people were almost afraid to go out and socialise. And so I am delighted to tell you that the wonderful Parents’ Association of Creggs National School are grasping the nettle, and on this Saturday night, January 27th, they are having a Ladies Night in Gannon’s Bar, with live music and karaoke too. It’s all in aid of the most progressive national school (Creggs NS) in the province. There will be loads of spot prizes and even a €250 voucher for Brown Thomas. Tickets, which

are selling like hot buns, are only €10. Doors open at 7.30 pm. There will be Prosecco for all on arrival. There is also a make-up demonstration. I have to say that it’s great to have such an event taking place in the village, so make sure ye come out in large numbers this Saturday night and support it. As it’s Ladies Night, all the young lads should be there. You’d never know your luck! Hopefully I’ll see you there. I am so delighted to see live entertainment back, we may well look at reviving our annual dance in the near future. I’ll keep you posted.

And finally… It is now Monday afternoon as I write, and thankfully in our area we seem to have survived Storm Isha. We have seen hundreds of fallen trees all over the country, hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses are still without power, but most distressing of all is the fact that at least two lives were lost on the road as a direct result of the storm. I have just driven to Galway, where I am actually writing this, and even though the storm has abated, driving conditions were still very tricky. The notorious winter sun, which quite literally blinds you, coupled with a massive amount of spray, made life very difficult for drivers, and I must admit I didn’t enjoy a drive which is normally quite easy. I know another storm is due Tuesday (by which time I will have submitted this column). Hopefully you all stayed warm on Tuesday and – above all – safe.

for now ’Til next week, bye

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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‘Charity shops are not a dumping ground’ Concerns of local charity shops raised At the January meeting of Roscommon Municipal District, Councillor Antho-

ny Waldron highlighted the ongoing problem of people leaving clothes and other items in front of charity shops after hours. Cllr Waldron says: “Our charity shops are a vital part of the make-up of the centre of Roscommon.

They provide quality second-hand goods at affordable prices. However, not everything that people wish to donate is suitable, and well-meaning people must understand that it is essential that they bring their donations during

Crosby’s concern for those on ‘poverty line’ Councillor Tom Crosby has said it is “shocking but not altogether surprising” that a staggering 90,000 calls were made to the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) last year from people requesting help with food. He is now calling on the Government to urgently prioritise helping citizens who are experiencing poverty. The majority of the calls received (almost 20,000) related to people seeking help with regard to energy and utility bills, whilst 33,000 calls were made by those struggling with both food and additional concerns such as those relating to household goods, furniture, clothing, support with health-related costs and issues concerning mortgages, rent and school costs. Speaking this week, Cllr Crosby said it was “ironic” that Ireland is hailed as one of the richest countries in the world yet so many people are still living on the poverty line here.

“Last year thousands of people called on St. Vincent de Paul for help and it is crucial to let people know that this organisation – and many others – are there to help those in most need”. “However,” continued Cllr Crosby, “it should not be up to charities such as SVP to pull these people out of a financial crisis and the recent paltry €12 increase for those dependent on social welfare payments is simply not enough and will leave them struggling to pay their bills in the current economic climate. “It is crucial to realise that each call made to SVP comes from not just a statistic but a mother or father, sister or brother, someone in crisis mode. That takes courage. These people are living on the poverty line and are desperately asking for aid that this Government have not delivered. This must change in 2024”.

opening hours so that staff can receive them. “With Storms Isha and Jocelyn, we had a major problem in Castlecourt when donations which had been left after hours were blown all over the place. In addition, food items were left which could attract vermin. “We cannot afford for this practice to continue since it becomes a major issue for both the charity shops and the County Council”. Cllr Waldron concluded: “Charity shops are not a dumping ground, so please do not leave soiled or ripped clothing, food items or broken goods. In addition, each charity shop has their own policy regarding what they can accept – for example, some will not accept toys or books, so please check beforehand”.

Ballymurray National School is currently accepting enrolments for 2024/25. Enrolment forms are available from the Principal, Tom Gately at principal@ballymurrayns.com The school will hold an OPEN DAY on Thursday, February 1st, between 4 and 6 pm You are welcome to come and view the school and meet the staff Closing date for enrolments is February 27th, 2024

Hannon’s Hotel

Roscommon town

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Storm Isha leaves thousands of Roscommon homes without power STORM JOCELYN SLOWS REPAIRS DOWN < PAUL HEALY

Thousands of householders and businesses in County Roscommon were without power for a number of days earlier this week as stormy weather severely impacted the entire country. Storm Isha, which peaked on Sunday, was particularly severe, and was followed by Storm Jocelyn on Tuesday.

While some properties in County Roscommon and adjoining counties were damaged, and there were reports of a number of fallen trees, the primary inconvenience for the public came in the form of lengthy power outages. Storm Isha peaked on Sunday but the country also felt its brunt on Monday. Locally, thousands of homes

lost power, for varying periods of time – some for a number of days. Fire services personnel and ESB crews responded by working tirelessly – in very challenging conditions – to alleviate the fallout from the storms. With fallen trees, debris strewn across roads and damage to buildings, Roscommon County Council

A tree down near Tarmon in Castlerea after Storm Isha on Sunday evening. Pic: Facebook

crews were deployed to conduct substantial clean-up work. On Tuesday, Storm Jocelyn struck, which added to the challenge facing repair teams. Roscommon was placed under a status yellow wind warning from 2 pm on Tuesday through to 2 am on Wednesday. Strong ‘storm force’ winds were experienced throughout County Roscommon, and

in many instances road conditions were hazardous. Some phone lines and Internet access was affected in parts of the county. Eir confirmed that it had deployed repair teams to address up to 80 faults with a view to restoring services quickly. *On Tuesday afternoon, Uisce Éireann confirmed that it was still working to restore normal water supply to customers on

the Castlerea Public Water Supply following power outages caused by Storm Isha. The company said that power had been restored to Castlerea Water Treatment Plant, but some customers could expect to continue to experience water outages and low pressure until the network fully recharges, a process that could continue ‘up to Wednesday evening or night’.

A large tree blocks the road on the way to Loughglynn after Storm Isha caused widespread damage on Sunday evening. Pic: Facebook

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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UPDATE On Tuesday evening, ESB Networks confirmed that approximately 221,000 homes, farms and businesses nationwide have had their power restored following winds associated with Storm Isha. Approximately 24,000 customers who lost electricity supply during Storm Isha remained without power as of Tuesday evening. These were ‘predominantly in the Northwest’ and included many in County Roscommon, including in the greater Ballaghaderreen area. In addition, 14,000 customers (nationally) lost supply following the high winds associated with Storm Jocelyn on Tuesday. ESB Networks said that all available resources were deployed in ongoing efforts to restore service to people. “We apologise for the disruption to family and commercial life this causes, and thank customers across the country… for their patience as our crews work to safely restore power”.

Storm Isha caused widespread damage and power outages on Sunday evening as it swept across the county. Pic: Facebook

Gaelscoil de hÍde, Ros Comáin Open Morning

Saturday, 28th 27th January January Saturday 10.30 - 12.00

Maidin Oscailte

Come in and see what the Gaelscoil can offer your child Supervision from 8.30 am STEM, Music, Sport, Coding, Drama, Art, German Golf LEGO Club

Homework Club After-school activities Collection for after-school care School bus available Green School

95% of parents of children in Gaelscoileanna do not speak Irish themselves

Bilingual children enjoy: Heightened cultural awareness Advanced communication skills Enhanced problem-solving skills

Déan teagmháil linn

Gaelscoil de hÍde, Cnoc na Crúibe, Ros Comáin, F42 TD83 090 66 28860 eolasgaelscoildehide@gmail.com www.gaelscoildehide.ie Gaelscoil de hÍde Ros Comáin

@gaelscoildehide

Ballyleague N.S. ENROLMENT 2024 / 2025 MONDAY, 29th JANUARY 3:15 pm – 4:15 pm Parents are invited to come along with their child to view our school, our facilities and meet with our teachers, who will be happy to answer any queries you may have. IF UNABLE TO ATTEND PLEASE CONTACT THE SCHOOL FOR ADMISSION FORM. 043 3321906 ballyleaguens@gmail.com or download from website: www.ballyleaguens.com

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Special Sale of Bullocks Also Dry Cows and Heifers

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Dairy calf to beef system has to incentivise farmers – IFA Reacting to the draft action plan announced by the Minister for Agriculture on supporting dairy calf to beef systems, IFA Livestock Chairperson Declan Hanrahan said the plan lacks the first and most fundamental component, which is “a guaranteed return for the financial and labour investment for almost two years to bring these animals to slaughter”. Declan Hanrahan said despite encouraging results from optimum trial conditions on a select few farms, the figures speak for themselves: 60% of farmers who attempted rearing beef calves from the dairy herd leave over five years. He said dealing with the issue of beef calves from the dairy herd is a huge challenge that must be resolved, but expecting beef farmers to take effectively all of the risk for up to two years will not lead to a successful outcome. The IFA Livestock Chairperson recognised the important role the CBV for these calves will play in helping farmers better select the calves they will rear and said this must be available for all dairy bred

beef calves. “Maintaining access to our live export markets for calves and growing this market is the most effective way to significantly reduce the rearing requirements in this country and avoid any additional pressure on beef sales”. He said that if additional calves are to be reared here, then it is vital that additional market outlets are identified to accommodate increased beef production. He added that the Ten Point Plan places a lot of emphasis on efficiencies; best practice; advice; and relationships with dairy farmers and meat processors. “All of this is important, but lacks detail on the actual returns” Mr Hanrahan commented. “If the minister and the sector are really serious about having these calves reared on beef farms, then meaningful targeted payments for beef farmers will be needed,” he said. IFA has consistently called for a minimum of €100 per calf payment for farmers taking on the rearing of dairy beef calves.

IFA Livestock Chairperson Declan Hanrahan

IFA to hold online meeting on Residential Zoned Land Tax

IFA will hold an online meeting on next Wednesday, January 31st, for the purpose of updating farmers affected by the Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT). IFA Farm Business Chairperson Bill O’Keeffe said updated maps will be published on Thursday,

February 1st. Landowners who are impacted can make submissions on these maps up to April 1st. “The briefing, which begins at 11 am, is an opportunity for those affected by this tax to understand the process and what they need to do to get their land removed from the

liability,” he said. “Senior officials from both the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage and the Department of Finance have agreed to attend, present and take questions at this meeting. We hope this will bring clarity to the process

Roscommon MART WATCH There was a similar entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Special Sale of Heifers. Heifers fetched an average of €2.26 per kilo up to €3.57. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €0.92 per kilo up to €2.22 per kilo. There was a good entry of top quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening last with a very strong trade for both bulls and heifers. Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.07 per kilo up to €3.83 per kilo, while heifer weanlings made from an average of €2.98 per kilo up to €3.80. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside for both sales with online buyers also active. We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €164. The tops for stag ewes fetched €171. There was also a selection of breeding ewes on offer and they fetched up to €214. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is Wednesday, January 31st at 11 am. 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: AAX 925 Kg €2,050, LMX 620 Kg €1,290, FRX 570 Kg €900, CHX 855 Kg €1,900, SHX 550 Kg €1,110, FR 555 Kg €510, LMX 700 kg €1,470, FR 610 Kg €990. Heifers: LMX 730 Kg €2,270, LMX 690 Kg €2,140, LM 635 kg €2,080, CHX 685 kg €2,260, BBX 705 kg €1,830, LMX 570 kg €1,880, CHX 710 Kg €2,150, BA 590 Kg €1,740, LMX 550 kg €1,770. Heifer weanlings: Char X 350 kg €1,330, SIX 285 kg €950, Lim X 190 kg €570, Char X 340 kg €1,050, Char X 385 kg €1,160, Char X 395 kg €1,300. Bull weanlings: Lim X 295 kg €1,130, Char X 350 kg €1,270, Char X 395 kg €1,380, Char X 320 kg €1,140, Lim X 285 kg €1,040, Char X 280 kg €1,000, Lim X 275 kg €1,000, Lim X 285 kg €990. Finished lambs: 53.1 kgs €164, 54.6 kgs €164, 55.6 kgs €163, 49.3 kgs €163, 50 kgs €158, 59 kgs €150, 50.1 kgs €155, 46.8 kgs €149, 47.2 kgs €153, 48.6 kgs €158. Store lambs: 40.8 kgs €136, 40. kgs €140, 38.4 kgs €127, 37.4 kgs €125, 36.7 kgs €119. Cast ewes made from €71 to €171 per lot.

for those farmers affected,” he said. Bill O’Keeffe said IFA has been working for some time to get all ‘genuinely farmed land’ removed from this tax. “This work will continue, and I encourage all who may be affected to join this meeting,” he concluded.

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

Business Local Enterprise Office Roscommon clients created over 128 jobs in 2023 Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond, TD has announced the annual results of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) for 2023, which showed that Local Enterprise Officesupported companies created 128 jobs in 2023. The net jobs created by Local Enterprise Office Roscommon-supported clients in 2023 was 26, which takes into account companies that amalgamated, ceased trading and those that transferred on to Enterprise Ireland. The new figures show that the LEO Roscommon financially supported 171 small businesses in their portfolio across the county. These companies in turn employ 996 people. In 2023 there were 6,640 new jobs created by LEO client companies (nationally) with a net jobs creation figure of 2,131. This was up 6% nationally on 2022. The LEOs also provide substantial funded supports to thousands of other small businesses across the country with programmes such as the Trading Online Voucher, Lean for Business and Green for Business, along with training and mentoring. Minister Richmond said, “I have been fortunate enough to visit many Lo-

cal Enterprise Offices and I have seen first-hand the superb quality of their mentorship and supports, and the impact they have on the businesses and entrepreneurs they support. These results are a testament to our Local Enterprise Offices; ten consecutive years of job growth is a major accomplishment that reminds us how crucial their support is both for new businesses, but also in helping existing businesses to grow”. The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in supporting small businesses across the country in 2023, helping thousands to pivot online or adapt their products and services through a large suite of supports. Louise Ward (Head of Enterprise in Local Enterprise Office Roscommon) said, “The results are a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of Roscommon’s business community. The last year has again seen huge challenges and these results show that Roscommon businesses, with the support of the Local Enterprise Office, have not only sustained themselves but have also taken advantage of opportunities to grow. These figures represent only a part of the supports provided by the Local Enterprise Office

which include Training, Mentoring, Sustainability, Digitalisation and Efficiency programmes. “Local Enterprise Office Roscommon and Roscommon County Council, with the support of Enterprise Ireland look forward to supporting the business community in Roscommon again in 2024 to identify opportunities for both new and growing businesses and to help them overcome any challenges they face”. The Local Enterprise Offices located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. They run key initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country including Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme and the National Enterprise Awards. The Local Enterprise Offices are also running a campaign encouraging small businesses to save time, money and energy by availing of their competitiveness and productivity supports including Green, Lean and Digital for Business, AllInADaysWork.ie. For more information on the Local Enterprise Offices go to LocalEnterprise.ie.

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond, TD

Roger Wallace (Partner Lead for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year), Sam Moffett (managing director and founder of Moffett Automated Storage Ltd and EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023), and Eimear McCrann (Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year) pictured at the launch of the 2024 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) programme. Pic: Naoise Culhane

Calling Roscommon entrepreneurs Nominations for 2024 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year now open The 2024 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) programme is officially open for nominations this week. Entrepreneurs from emerging, established, and international businesses operating across all industry sectors in Roscommon are invited to submit their nominations between now and February 29th 2024. The theme for this year’s programme is The Trailblazers. Entrepreneurial trailblazers are true leaders with the courage and capac-

ity to plot and follow their own path, pushing conventional boundaries and limits. Through their exploration of new technologies, sciences, applications and markets, Ireland’s entrepreneurs provide innovative answers and solutions to many of today’s greatest challenges. They are often pioneers within their respective industries both in Ireland and across global markets. They forge their own unique trail to enable their compa-

nies, people, and the wider economy to reach new heights and aspirations. The 24 finalists will be selected by an independent judging panel, comprising former winners, and chaired by Harry Hughes, CEO of Portwest, who takes over the role from Anne Heraty, CEO of CPL Resources plc. Anyone interested can find out more or complete an online nomination form at eoy.ie. Those nominating someone else must do so with the entrepreneur’s consent.

Two of the Abbey Hotel’s long-standing staff members were recently reunited behind the bar counter! Georgina Furey has worked at the Abbey for over 28 years and Derek Tully has rejoined the team after almost 20 years’ service working at the Abbey.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

NewsPeople

No religious institution should have the level of influence the Irish Church once did… Let’s talk about ... The Catholic Church’s future

(A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy

I imagine readers will have heard the joke about the atheist man who’s stopped at a roadblock in Northern Ireland and gets asked his religion – when he replies ‘atheist’, the response he gets is: “Sure, but are you a Protestant or Catholic atheist?”. If all jokes have a bit of truth in them, anyone remotely familiar with Irish history will know the truths being observed by the joke as a whole. But even just the idea alone of an Irishman being a ‘Catholic atheist’ – as oxymoronic of a phrase it may seem – feels like it could have truth in it too. According to the 2022 Census, 14% of Ireland is atheistic (an almost 200% increase on the 2011 figures). Given Ireland’s history, it’s not unreasonable to assume a significant portion of these were originally raised Catholic – but I don’t just mean that ‘Catholic atheist’ feels like it could describe some Irish atheists simply because they’re formerly Catholic. I mean that even if you’re now atheistic, until recently Catholic Ireland was the norm for so long, that it often remains the de facto way of life regardless. As of 2021, 88.6% of Irish schools had Catholic patrons. If you have a child, the school they attend will more than likely be one with some form of Catholic ethos. Their schooling will probably routinely involve events like school Masses. When they grow up and begin participating more within their community, often, particularly in rural areas, communities will be divided along, and run under the auspices of, local parishes. We may no longer be a ‘Catholic country’ as it were, but because of the longevity of its influence on our society, to this day the sensibilities, norms, and frameworks of Catholicism still function as the given for Irish people, especially rurally. But of course the Catholic Church itself has, by no means, the same level of influence and esteem in Irish society it once did. The 2022 Census revealed a 10% drop in the Catholic population since the last census alone, and even among those, many tend to be “less practicing” – not going to Mass every Sunday/only going for Christmas, etc. And while there’s many reasons why this is, undoubtedly one of the biggest catalysts behind why so many Irish people have moved away from Catholicism – or at the very least, the institution of it (as opposed to the belief) – must be the various scandals that have come to light over the years. Revelations like what happened for decades in Ireland’s mother and baby homes, the Tuam babies, scandal after scandal of physical and sexual abuse against children – in addition to general heightened grievances regarding the Church’s greed, rigidity, intolerance, and bigotry – did a decimation to the public perception of the Irish Church that it’s never quite recovered from. And it’s something it frankly shouldn’t fully recover from; no religious institution should have the level of influence the Irish Church once did over every political and social issue.

Catechist Caitríona Lynch pictured when she was a panellist on RTE’s ‘Upfront with Katie Hannon’ recently.

The decline of Catholicism has also been spurred by the simultaneous decline in ordinations in recent years. Priest numbers are dwindling, putting pressure on remaining priests to take on extra responsibilities… all of this breathing new life into old debates about whether certain rules for entering the priesthood, such as taking a vow of celibacy or being a man, should be re-examined and perhaps done away with. Given this recent topicality, the future of the Catholic Church in Ireland formed the focus of last week’s ‘Upfront with Katie Hannon’. Amid discussions around how the Church has failed Irish society in such massive ways historically, panellist and Catechist Caitríona Lynch tells the audience, “We have all been hurt and disappointed by our churches” because “Our churches are administered, run, and taken care of by human beings, who are flawed at the core of their being”. This statement struck me. Not that it’s a totally surprising take… because I mean it does feel like an appropriately Catechistic read of the situation; humans being inherently flawed is a very ‘original sin’ line of thinking. But (from a non-Catechistic point of view), this statement struck me because I see it almost exactly the opposite. Yes, when it comes to the big scandals, there are specific, very flawed humans whom direct blame can be put on. But the institution itself is not blameless; Catholicism as it once existed in Ireland was a belief system so intrinsically built upon patriarchy, shame, power dynamics, blind servitude, and control, that it created the perfect conditions for such flawed humans to get away with atrocities for a long, long time – and indeed, often to be shielded from consequences. So then why, given these horrific scandals and how much the Church has fallen in people’s eyes, does Catholicism remain the majority religion by far, and still retain so many links in modern society in areas you’d

expect to have become more secular? It could simply be the endurance of tradition, sure, but I believe a part of it has to do with what the practice of Irish Catholicism can look like on the micro-scale, because of the human beings who ‘run’ the Church on a local level. There’s a tangibly genuine and empathetic intent behind the large contingent of Irish society that contribute to Church-related activities in some way or another – as mentioned, local priests taking on extra work to make up for dwindling ordinations, but also local people organising charity eventtype fundraisers for church and community upkeep, those who volunteer to give their

“

‘Part of why the Church continues to survive as well as it does… has to do with the administering, day-to-day running, and care-taking within local communities done under the Church by human beings who are genuinely well intentioned’

time to help out at different activities, etc – and people respect and appreciate this. I don’t think it’s as simple as the Church “hurt and disappointed” us “because it is administered, run, and taken care of by human beings” who are inherently flawed. In fact I think if anything, part of why the Church continues to survive as well as it does (despite everything), has to do with the administering, day-to-day running, and care-taking within local communities done under the Church by human beings who are genuinely well intentioned. The institution of the Catholic Church is on the decline, and this is not a bad thing; of course you can believe in whatever faith you want and feel whatever way about its popularity, but in terms of the institution itself, Ireland is long overdue a breather from its influence. I wrote earlier about how parts of Irish society still operate through Catholic frameworks – for example, our 88.6% Catholic primary schools and our parish-based communities. And when we talk about the decline and the future of the Church, we must ensure that no matter what, deliberate effort is made going forward to allow such valuable parts of our society, which have traditionally operated under the Church, to transition to operating completely secularly. This is not just because it’s important for things like education and community groupings to exist without being restricted by certain religious ethos, but also because it’s important such things can continue if the Church declines drastically. Who knows what lies ahead for the Catholic Church; that’s impossible to gauge. But in the meantime, hopefully we make the effort to migrate away from the areas where the Church’s influence still unnecessarily permeates society (like with patrons still being over most schools), and eventually become the ‘secular Ireland’ we already claim to be… before the phrase begins to ring as plainly rubbish as ‘Catholic atheist’.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

NewsPeople

Roscommon County Council spearhead successful anti-dumping initiatives Last year (2023) the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications made funding available through the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLA) to support projects through the Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI). Roscommon County Council successfully submitted a number of proposals for funding under this Initiative which included awareness campaigns and bulky goods collections at Civic Amenity Sites. The total spend on these projects was €111,017.55. The aim of the ADI is to fund projects which tackle problems using a collaborative approach involving local authorities and communities to eradicate litter blackspots and increase awareness of best practices in litter and waste management and minimisation. In summary, the focus of the ADI is on prevention, abatement, education and enforcement of anti-litter initiatives. A number of wide-ranging and effective initiatives were undertaken by the Environment section of Roscommon County Council. Among the initiatives were bulky goods collections and environmental enforcement training. A series of campaigns were also successfully delivered by Roscommon County Council including the publication of a user-friendly, pocket-sized booklet entitled ‘A guide to Household Waste Management and Recycling’. A promotion highlighting awareness of Waste Presentation Bye-Laws was also successfully delivered. Speaking following the delivery of a wide range of successful measures under the ADI, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer with Roscommon County Council Jonathan Jones, commended the efforts of the local author-

The booklet, which was elaborately illustrated, offered simple, effective and practical advice on how citizens should manage and dispose of their household waste using safe, efficient and effective measures to reduce and manage waste. Another key feature of the work of Roscommon County Council’s Environment section was the promotion of a Waste Presentation Bye-Laws Awareness Campaign – a public information campaign in local newspapers, radio and social media, with the objective of increasing the number of households and commercial premises with a proper waste collection.

ity’s environmental team and the public at large: “I wish to acknowledge the work of our environmental team who work closely with our local communities to deliver litter initiatives that are transformative and enduring, in the process educating and informing people as to the importance and value of litter prevention and waste minimisation”, he said. “It is unfortunate that monies which could be used for promotional campaigns and education is being spent on clean-ups and removing litter blackspots.

Nevertheless, there is a strong educational and support element of our services, which the vast majority of our citizens respond to enthusiastically and proactively”. A cornerstone of the Council’s anti-dumping initiatives was the utilisation of each of the county’s four Civic Amenity sites, located in Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Castlerea and Roscommon, with bulky goods collections held at each site. Of the accumulated waste collections for the whole of 2023, 56.380 kg of bulky waste was

collected. Of this waste, there was a total of 905 mattresses; 430 couches; 310 bed bases and 810 mixed furniture and armchairs pieces. Roscommon County Council worked extensively with Bounce Back Recycling, a recognised social enterprise, to divert mattresses, couches, bed bases and armchairs away from landfill to be recycled. Successful campaigns delivering waste removal A further project delivered by

Roscommon County Council under the ADI last year was the Ballaghaderreen Waste Project. This project engaged with households and commercial operators to ensure compliance with Waste Presentation ByeLaws. New innovative waste management In October last year, Roscommon County Council published a new, user-friendly pocket booklet, entitled ‘A guide to Household Waste Management and Recycling’.

Reaching out to next generation The focus of Roscommon County Council’s ADI projects wasn’t exclusively confined to waste management and waste minimisation. A key target is education and information on waste recycling and upcycling of used materials as part of the circular economy. Textile Upcycling courses were organised throughout the county in the past twelve months. The purpose of these courses was two-fold – to engage with the public and secondary school students to highlight the environmental impact of the manufacture and disposal of textile/clothing waste. Five upcycling workshops were organised and facilitated by Tutors from Cycle-up, an environmental and training social enterprise. Such was the success of this project that demand grew among students in the county’s second level schools as a further two interactive upcycling demonstrations were provided to transition year students at St Nathy’s College in Ballaghaderreen.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Mollie McDonnell, Alison Grehan, Tara Flanagan, Mary Grehan, Katie McDonnell, Lucy Stone, Alan Stone, Marie McDonnell and Cait Walsh flying the flags for St Brigid’s outside Croke Park last Sunday ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Olive, Murty and Shauna Quinn pictured outside Croke Park last Sunday cheering for St Brigid’s ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Winter Wedding fair at the Abbey Hotel On Sunday, January 14th, the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon hosted its annual wedding fair extravaganza, which was hailed a great success. Newly-engaged couples from across the midlands and west were treated to a sample of the hotel’s finest wines and other re-

freshments, whilst also availing of the opportunity of meeting some of the wedding industry’s leading local suppliers. “Our ballroom, bridal suite, and civil ceremony suite was tastefully decorated, giving couples a chance to view our full wedding day set-up in all its splendour”,

explained Geraldine Grealy, Wedding Fair Event Organiser. “Our talented and creative team of chefs prepared some mouth-watering wedding cuisine. We also had a selection of bridal boutiques, menswear outlets, wedding decor vendors, the local credit union, solemnisers, bridal hair specialists, photographers, make-up artists and entertainment providers – all had an opportunity to showcase their businesses and special offers on the day as well as meet with many of our existing and new wedding couples. “We have some key dates remaining for late summer and Christmas 2024. You can make enquiries by email to weddings@abbeyhotel.ie. “We are already looking forward to our next event and invite suppliers to contact us should they wish to be part of our summer showcase. Enquiries can be made by phone to 086 3276584,” Geraldine concluded. For more, follow the Abbey Hotel on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The Abbey Hotel hosted its annual wedding fair extravaganza on Sunday, January 14th. Pics: Villiam Revtak

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Members of the Whelan family from Wexford – supporters of St Brigid’s – pictured outside Croke Park ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final between St Brigid’s and Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Phillip Martin, Eoin Mannion, James Martin, Richie Blane, Robbie Keenan, Nigel Irwin and Ger Ahearne pictured outside Croke Park ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final between St Brigid’s and Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Colin and Annette Menton, natives of Curraghboy now now living in Ashbourne, Co Meath, pictured en route to Croke Park to cheer on St Brigid’s in the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Majella and Alan MacNeice supporting St Brigid’s at Croke Park last Sunday for the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Fiona Gavin, Niamh Daly, Sarah Finnerty, Chrissie O’Malley and Jane O’Connor pictured on their way into Croke Park to cheer on St Brigid’s in the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Danielle and Ian Kilbride pictured outside Croke Park last Sunday supporting St Brigid’s ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Bernadette and John Sammon pictured outside Croke Park last Sunday cheering for St Brigid’s ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Patrick and Mary Cunniffe pictured with Jack Carney and member of the Higgins family – Megan, Dom and Ann – outside Croke Park last Sunday supporting St Brigid’s ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Sean and Debbie Kilbride from Kiltoom pictured outside Croke Park last Sunday cheering for St Brigid’s ahead of the All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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CSO house price rises unsurprising – IPAV

Commenting on Wednesday’s CSO House Price Index for November, IPAV, the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers, said the results broadly concur with those reported by IPAV auctioneers which showed prices increasing in the latter part of 2023. Pat Davitt, IPAV’s Chief Executive, said: “It’s increasingly clear that property prices outside of the cities are now gaining some of the lost ground on city prices, moving up at a faster

rate. While overall those prices are showing ahead of the 2007 peak, there are many areas well behind those highs”. He said the Property Price Register will register over 60,000 sales for 2023 for the first time since the start of yearly sales figures in 2010. “While the figures may fluctuate, overall they are increasing, meaning there is greater movement in the market – but there is still a big shortage of new

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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

Stephen Casey

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

COUNSELLING

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

Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

FARMING < FOR SALE: Round bales of good clean hay, saved in 2022. Hard bales, Ballygar area. Tel: 087 4093882 < FOR SALE: Bales of Silage for sale, Creggs area. Tel: 086 0656702 < HAY FOR SALE: Round bales of hay for sale in Athlone area. Tel: 087 6810731

FENCING/GATES

Des Kelly Fencing Over 30 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

094 96 20099 Mobile:

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

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

Tel: 087 2172281 GARDENING

Kerins Plant Ltd Tree Care & Plant Hire Residential & Commercial Tree Care

086 8936012

Tree Services • Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured Phone:

087 2721193 GATELY GARDENING

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

Tree removal Tree crowning l Dangerous roadside tree removal l Site clearance and mulching l Wood chipping l Stump grinding l Fully insured and certified l l

Telephone: 087-3477546 Email: kerinsplantcivilsltd @gmail.com

GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

Tommy’s Trees & Hedging

FOR SALE We supply all types of trees and hedging, Laurel, Beech, Whitethorn, Oak, Elder Birch, Dog rose, Gelder Rose, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Holly.

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

Suitable for ACRES & GLAS Scheme and REPS Scheme. Can be delivered Card payment accepted. Phone: 087 4177148

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

GRINDS/TUITION

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

< LEAVING CERT BIOLOGY GRINDS: Experienced Science and Biology Teacher - Roscommon Town. In depth revision of exam topics. Comprehensive revision notes. Exam Question Strategy. Contact: 087 7708169

GARDENING SERVICES

< MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible. Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536

www.parklaw treeservices.com

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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

JOE HEALY

087 2346364

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

GARDENING

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

< QUALIFIED PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER available for home tuition. Five years teaching and tuition experience teaching all classes levels at different stages. Also have experience tutoring Leaving Cert students with Irish Oral preparation. Please contact 0872796972 for more information.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Simon Beale + Associates, are applying to Roscommon County Council, on behalf of Ms Marie Grady for Full Planning Permission for a change of house type to that as previously granted under planning reference number PD/22/608, together with connection to services and all associated site works at Carrowgarve Td., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public office 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 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, Sean and Bernadette Mulry intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for alterations to existing dwelling house at Carrownabrickna, Roscommon. The proposed alterations consist of A. Erection of extensions to front and rear of the existing house. B. Removal of existing bay window to front facade. C. Removal and replacement of windows to front and side elevations. D. All ancillary development works.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Conor Gill, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for a change of House & Garage design that was previously granted under PD/20/318 along with all ancillary site development works at Clooneyquinn, Fuerty, Co Roscommon.

Signed: Simon Beale + Associates. Millstream House, Williamstown Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Tel: (094) 96 25952 www. sbassociates.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Kevin and Catriona Henry intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of living room and dining area to side of dwelling, window in lieu of door to living area to front elevation, canopy over bay window and front entrance door, change of use of garage to games room/store and toilet area, revised rear elevation to garage previously granted planning permission under P&D Ref 14/32 at No 5 Tarmon Manor Demesne, Castlerea, 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 offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of 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.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Signed: Sean and Bernadette Mulry The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Henry Hamrock intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for erection of two no. two storey dwelling units, together with all ancillary site development works on infill site at Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Henry Hamrock The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Further information Name of applicant: Padraig Coyle Address: Lysterfield, Curraghboy N37YF51 Planning Register Ref No: PD / 23 / 60177

Significant Further Information in relation to the application has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy , at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. An observation or submission in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission / observation if accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation. Signed: Padraig Coyle

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €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 - aaron @jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Bas Scheffer, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment system and polishing filter 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 offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Andrew Oates, intend to apply for permission for development at this site Uachtar Thíre, Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon The development will consist of a) amendments to the internal layout b) changes to fenestration and entrance doors c) removal of approx. 28 m. of rear garden 1.2 m. high boundary stone wall d) construction of approx. 27 m. of rear garden 1.2 m. high boundary stone wall e) 56.24 m2 ground floor house extension to the north-west rear garden with wooden pergola type cover over the rear garden f ) and all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during 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.

Signed: Andrew Oates

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL The Board of Management of Kilteevan National School intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Cloontogher TD, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon, F42 YY76. The development will consist of decommission existing wastewater treatment plant and percolation area serving existing school buildings and replace with new wastewater treatment system and Ter 3 Packaged Tertiary Unit and all ancillary site works. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) is also submitted with this application. The Planning Application and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours, and 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 Planning Authority of the application. Signed: Coyle Environmental Limited Agents for Board of Management of Kilteevan National School. 1st and 2nd Floor Kilmurry House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 DK58

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Significant Further Information On planning reference number PD/23/60036 in the townland Ballaghaderreen, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 DF44 on behalf of Sean Curran. Under planning reference number: PD/23/60036 dated 03/08/2023, in the townland Ballaghaderreen, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 DF44, full planning permission is sought for: a) Change of use of existing building, former Cigar Factory to a Recycling Facility b) the provision of 24 no. car parking spaces and 2 no. truck parking spaces, and 4 no. EV charging points and 1 no. accessible parking space c) provision of covered bicycle stand for 20 no. bicycles d) erection of perimeter security fencing, access gates and revisions to the southwestern vehicular access e) provision of 2 no. weighbridges f) connection to existing services including foul water and surface water including of 3 no. new attenuation tanks g) and all ancillary works. All above works will be carried out in the townland Ballaghaderreen, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 DF44. The proposal includes significant environmental information.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Kieran Supple, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following 1. Retain removal of chimneys 2. Planning permission to change roof finish from concrete tiles to blue/black slates 3. To connect to existing septic tank system, and carry out all ancillary site development works at Sheegorey, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52Y285.

Significant further information in relation to the application has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/ observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation. Signed: Seán Greene (Agents address) TOBIN Consulting Engineers, Fairgreen House, Fairgreen Road, Galway, H91 AXK8)

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

APPOINTMENTS Brideswell N.S, Athlone, Co. Roscommon is seeking a

PART-TIME

SECRETARY

(For 12-15 hours per week over 3 days) See www.educationposts.ie for full job description and requirements Closing date: 31st January 2024

Email CV, Letter of Application and References to The Chairperson: brideswellapplication@

gmail.com

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER: Required to mind 3 children, 4 hours per day, 3 – 4 days per week, school drop offs and pickups required. Curraghboy area. Might suit retired person. Tel: 085 8401784

< PAYROLL SPECIALIST/HR ADMIN / ACCOUNTS PERSON: required for work based near Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Immediate start, full-time position. Dealing with all payroll information/ timesheets, reconciliation of PAYE/PRSI/USC and Pensions. lPASS Qualified an advantage, proficient in Excel, Word and other Microsoft programs. Experience in Quantum Software package would be an advantage. Please forward CV to collette@conneelybuilders.com. Phone: 090 9631836. To view all open roles, see Conneely Builders Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 6PM ON TUESDAY

086 3482387

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

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The local paper! TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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

TO RENT < 4 BED DETACHED BUNGALOW TO RENT: Lanesboro, Co. Longford. Oil heating / semi furnished. Recently refurbished. Large private garden. 3 miles from town. €950 per month . References required. Phone: 086 3276584 < TO RENT: Two bed appartment to rent in Lanesborough, parking available. Tel: 086 3223976

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

USEFUL SERVICES PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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083 0684011

< FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Excellent quality hardwood, Birch, Ash etc. 8x5 car trailer loads, tractor trailer loads and bags also available. Size cut to order. Also turf available. Call after 5pm 085 7848606

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

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Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Owen for ground work

086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

Professional Tiler available Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

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Hydraulic Cylinder Repair and Testing l Hydraulic Hose Repair l Oil/Grease Lubricants l OEM Hydraulic Components and Spares l

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

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

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

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

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

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087 2982214 Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:

• 20 years experience

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

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Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

TOP QUALITY TURF

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PODIATRIST

Marina Furey B. Sc. (MNRRI) (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to the reflex points of the feet/hand to trigger the natural healing power of the body

• Fertility Reflexology • Antenatal Reflexology • Baby/Child Reflexology • Special Needs Reflexology • Menopause Reflexology • Cancer Care Reflexology

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FROM

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

Aluminium

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DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:

PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

TREE SHEARING

087 9657933

or 090 66 33084

GRINDS

PERSONAL NOTICE Hi Ladies Male (61 years of age). Own house and car. Social drinker weekends (sometimes). Looking to meet a lady friend aged between 45 – 55 for friendship, or if lucky, hopefully for a relationship. Please reply to PO Box 3099 Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town.

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<SOCIAL DANCING: Continues every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music. This Friday night with Bernie Heaney, dance 9.00pm til late. Tel. 087 9809432

REVISION COURSES Junior and Leaving Cert HL For further information

l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling

l Dangerous Tree Removed

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole,

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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Electrician Available

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

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090 66 34633

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

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Phone JOHN

083 8838022

ALPHA ROOFING

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1st and 2nd fix l Panelling l Sliding Wardrobes l All general construction l Media wall units sprayed painted or skimmed

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

Roof Repairs

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l Slate roofs l Tiled roofs l Flat roofs, using all type of materials l Roof windows l Lead replacing l Pointing work l Leak detection l All roofing repair work

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Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

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10%

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APPLICANT FOR GARDA SIOCHANA

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PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

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NASHVILLE ROOFING Company website

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INTERESTED IN BEING AN APPLICANT FOR AN GARDA SIOCHANA? THE 2024 GARDA RECRUITMENT GARDA CAMPAIGN IS DUE TO BE ANNOUNCED ON JANUARY 15TH 2024.

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24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroof repairs l Dry Verge Repointing l Package deal on Roofing restoration, cleaning, moss removal, replace broken tiles l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Chimney Repairs, Lead Flashing repairs l Patio Services, Powerwashing, Drains and Footpaths l Painting & Decorating l Renovations, Porches, Walls & Garden Design l Barn repairs & farm painting

I am a retired member of An Garda Siochana since November 2023 having spent twenty years in internal Garda Training and Student / Probationer advancement. Training and Education can be provided by us in the following: l Preparation of initial application form. l Stage (1) Application (online) l Stage (2 ) Application (At Public Service Commission) l Interview preparation for final assessment. l Assistance with Physical testing on Stage 4 l Blended learning on training both online and classroom. l Top class venue available for classroom training. l Available on details listed below during competition on a seven day 24 hour basis. l Ongoing advice and mentoring.

Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at

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Phone: 083 1479301

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

GROUND WORKS

Call or contact (087) 6339725 Gerry or gergac@eircom.net Qualified and experienced Roscommon based Training Provider. This a private training provider and is not associated with any State Body

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GF Ground Works l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways l Fully insured l References available

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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CARS

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Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Mobile:

086 8115928 CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in SIGA or contact us for free Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

€3,500

091 768 768 Ballybane Industrial Estate,

Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KEARNEY (née Leydon) Tess Ard na Gréine, Roscommon Town, Roscommon

Who died on January 26th, 2023 (1st Anniversary)

COSTELLO Ann Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon (14th Anniversary)

CONROY Bridget (nee Ames) Clooncullane, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. In memory of a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who died on the 29th January 2023. (1st Anniversary)

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

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CORCORAN Carmel & Michael

Everlasting memories of Ann, who died on 28th January 2010 On the First Anniversary of Mam’s passing, we, her family, would like to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who sympathised and supported us on our great loss. Thank you to our wonderful neighbours, relatives and friends who provided food and refreshments during the difficult days following her passing. Thank you to all who attended the Funeral Home, Funeral Mass, Burial and travelled long distances to pay their respects. To those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, letters of sympathy, perpetual enrolments, messages of sympathy, floral tributes and donations to the Irish Wheelchair Association, thank you. A special word of thanks to Fr. Kevin Fallon and Fr. Sean Beirne for their kindness, help and support and for celebrating Mam’s Funeral Mass. Thank you to Enya Reilly for her beautiful music and singing which added so much to the Mass. A special thank you to Grainne, Tess’s niece and all the carers who looked after Mam at home. Thank you to Declan McGarry and the staff at Oakwood Nursing Home, to the Doctors and staff at the Medical Centre, Roscommon who looked after Mam with care and kindness. Thank you to Pat and Gillian Smyth and family for their invaluable advice, guidance, professionalism and kindness throughout those difficult days. Thank you to John Hoare and his staff for preparing Mam’s final resting place. Thank you to the Hannon family and the staff of Hannon’s Hotel for providing refreshments after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Dearer still as the years depart, you live forever in our hearts. Loved and missed forever by all her family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday, 29th January at 11am.

REGAN Ann Liscoffey, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (19th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 21st January 2005

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You can have a special Granny patient kind and true, no other friend in all the world will be the same as you. As we look upon your picture, sweet memories we recall, of a face so full of sunshine and a smile for one and all. Sweet Jesus take this message to our dear granny up above, tell her how we miss her and give her all our love.

Loved and dearly missed by her husband Matty, sons, daughters, sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, cherished grandchildren and great grandchild and extended family.

Bridget’s Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin on Sunday, the 28th January at 11.30am.

HARRINGTON Thomas (Tom)

First Anniversary Mass for Tess will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 27th January at 7pm.

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We lost a dear wife and mother with a heart of gold, how much we miss her can never be told, she shared our troubles and helped us along, if we follow her footsteps, we will never go wrong. We miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air, your vacant place no one can fill; we miss you Bridget and always will. We prayed for a miracle all in vain, that God would make you well again. But God knew best, we had to part, it eased your pain but broke our hearts. We cannot bring the old days back when we were all together, the family chain is broken now, but memories live forever. She was a dear wife and mother so very rare, content in her home and always there, on earth she toiled, in heaven she rests, God bless you Bridget, you were one of the best.

Loved with a love beyond all telling and missed with a grief beyond all tears.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her sons Joseph, David and Kenneth, daughters-in-law, Catherine, Mary and Sinead and her grandchildren, Niall, Aoife, Lisa, Mark, Ella and Isa and extended family.

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Killoy, Lecarrow (21st and 44th Anniversaries)

MEMORIES Death leaves heartache no one can heal. Memories are treasures no one can steal. Some may forget you now that you are gone, but we will remember no matter how long. You will always stay loved and remembered, in every way, no tears, no verse, can ever say how much we miss you every day. Missed always by James, sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and all your grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 27th January at 7pm.

Kilnagralta/Morganstown, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 23rd January 2022

KELLY Frank Mullymux, Roscommon (16th Anniversary)

(2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Frank, Husband, Father and Grandfather Time passes, memories stay, quietly remembered every day.

Deep are the memories, precious they stay, no passing of time can take them away.

Sadly missed by his family, friends and neighbours.

Loved and missed by your family.

Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Friday, 26th January at 7pm.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 27th January at 10am.

Cherished memories of Carmel who passed away on 25th January 2003 and Michael who passed away on 7th January 1980. Many a lovely memory, many a silent tear, always treasured memories of parents we loved so dear. Loved and remembered always by your sons and daughters Marie, Padraig, Annette, Seamus and Micheal, sons-in-law, daughters-inlaw, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. CARMEL CORCORAN (21st Anniversary) No longer in our lives to share but in our hearts you’re always there. Lovingly remembered by your sister Phil and family. CARMEL CORCORAN (21st Anniversary) Sadly missed along life’s way quietly remembered every day. Sadly missed by your sister-in-law Kitty and family. Anniversary Mass for Carmel and Michael on Saturday, 27th January at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

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

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES GILLERAN Luke & Kathleen Hillside House, The Walk, Roscommon

HEALY Patrick (Paddy) Tullyroe, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

Mc WEENEY (née Casey) Kathleen Ballyleague, Lanesboro, Co. Longford. (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Luke and Kathleen whose anniversaries occur at this time. Hardworking, very quiet and dearly loved.

Loved and missed by their daughter Anne Harrington, 16 Plunkett Avenue, Ballygar, grandchildren Ruhiri and Aine and their partners Liam and Carolyn, great-grandchildren Eva, Alana, Christopher and baby Davit. Missed so much.

HOARE Jerry 3 Ard Comain, Henry Street, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a loving husband, dad, grandad and great-grandad who passed away on the 27th January 2019. Rest In Peace Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Lovingly remembered by Una and family. Mass offered.

O’BRIEN Michael (Mick) Cashel Park, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

God called your name so softly, that only you could hear. And no one heard the footsteps, of angels drawing near. The golden gates stood open, God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best.

Love from your sisters, brothers and family.

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

In loving memory of Michael who passed away on the 23rd of January 2022. Our memories build a special bridge, when loved ones have to part to help us feel were with them still, and soothe a grieving heart. Our memories span the years we shared, preserving ties that bind, they build a special bridge of love and bring us peace of mind.

Forever loved and fondly remembered by partner Breege, daughter Chloe, Breege’s children Ann-Marie and Michael and Ann-Marie’s partner Sean.

MONTH’S MIND MASS NEARY Tom High Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway and formerly Sheeaune, Burren, Castlebar, Co. Mayo In loving memory of Tom who died on the 17th of December 2023.

In loving memory of Kathleen who passed away on the 23rd of January 2023. We thought of you today but that is nothing new, We thought of you yesterday and the day before that too. We think of you in silence, we always speak your name, Now all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake with which we’ll never part, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all your family and friends. --------------Deep in our hearts your memory is kept, To love, to cherish and never forget. Loved and missed by Anne, Anto, Linda and family. --------------I lost a Mother with a heart of gold, how much I miss her can never be told. She shared my troubles and helped me along, if I follow in her footsteps, I will never go wrong. Sadly missed by Marie, Gerry, Sharon, Lorraine and family. --------------Loving memories never die, As years roll on and days pass by. in our hearts a memory is kept of the ones we love and never forget. Always remembered by Aidan, Eileen, Sarah and Niall. --------------May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, How much we love and miss you and wish that you were here. Sadly missed by Gerard, Lisa, Megan, Ava and family. Anniversary Mass for Kathleen will be celebrated in Ballyleague Church on Saturday, 27th of January at 7pm.

On the Month’s Mind of Tom’s passing, we his family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the sympathy and support shown to us on the sudden death of Tom. Sincere thanks to our wonderful neighbours, friends and extended family who brought food and refreshments to our home. Also thank you to all who attended the Wake, Removal and Funeral Mass and sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy, condolences and floral tributes. A special thank you to Fr. Douglas Zaggi P.P. Ballygar for the beautiful Funeral Mass and to Bernie, Ursula and Tomas for the beautiful singing and music. A special word of thanks to Dr. Martin Daly and the staff of Ballygar Health Centre for their kindness and care to Tom during the years. Thank you to David Moran for his support and kindness as he guided us through those difficult days. To our friends and neighbours who prepared Tom’s final resting place so beautifully. A sincere thank you to Tom‘s good friends John and Noeleen Fallon and the staff of Fallon’s Bar for the delicious meal after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation. Mass will be offered for your intentions. Tom’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place on Saturday, 3rd of February at 12pm in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

MONTH’S MIND MASS LYNCH Pat Cloonshivna, Newbridge, Co. Galway and formerly Woodbrook, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon 19th December 2023

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

The family of the late Pat Lynch, Cloonshivna formerly of Woodbrook, Carrick-on-Shannon, would like to thank Dr. Martin Daly and the staff at the Ballygar Practice for the care and support they gave Pat. Thanks to Dr. Hannon and her team at Portiuncula Hospital and Galway Hospice for the care, help and support they gave Pat and the family. The Funeral Directors in Ballygar David Moran, Carrick: Jim Glancy and the gravediggers, Fr. Brendan McDonagh for the beautiful service and reflection on Pat’s life. Thanks to the choir, Carmel McLoughlin and John Dwyer for the beautiful music at the church. A special thanks to family, friends and neighbours who paid their respects and brought food and drink to the house. Month’s Mind Mass will take place at Cootehall Church on Saturday, 27th January at 12 o’clock.

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Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES GATELY Catherine and Paddy

DALY Patrick (Pat)

Correal, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Catherine who passed away on 23rd December 2017 and Paddy who passed away on 9th January 2018 (6th Anniversary)

28 Beechgrove, Roscommon.

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 ones, and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you, the crowns you’ve truly won. Catherine and Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will be held in in the Church of Christ the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Sunday, 28th January at 11am.

MONTH’S MIND MASS KEANE (née Heath) Annie Cloonloughlin, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on Nov 24th 2023

(2nd Anniversary) Who passed away on 5th February 2022

Those we love can never be more than a thought away, for as long as there’s a memory they live in our hearts to stay.

Loved and sadly missed by Niall, Martina, James, Daire, Leah, Mikey, Ian and Jon. Patrick’s Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday, 5th February at 11am.

CAROLAN Maura Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (30th Anniversary)

MULHERN Paddy Athleague, Co. Roscommon

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 remembered every day, your wife Peggy. In loving memory of Dad It’s so strange that those in need and those we love the best, are just the ones God called away and took them home to rest. But every time I think of Dad I seem to hear God say: “have faith and trust my promise, you’ll meet again some day”. Missing you, love Trish, Jeremy and Niamh.

Annie’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place on Sunday, 4th February at 11am in the Church of Christ the Good Shepherd, Four Roads.

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No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye, you were gone, before we knew it and only God can tell us why. 30 years has passed since that sad day, you closed your eyes and slipped away. You left so quietly without a fuss and broke the hearts of all of us. Also remembering her husband Peter.

Sadly missed and always remembered by her sons, daughters, daughters-inlaw, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, niece, nephews and cousins. Anniversary Mass in Strokestown Parish Church on Sunday, 28th January at 11.30am.

Those special memories of you both, will always bring a smile, if only we could have you both, for just a little while. We could sit and chat like we all used to do, our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same. We have to hide the heartache, when someone speaks your names, days will pas and turn into years, but we will always remember, you both with silent tears. Always remembered by wife and mother Bridget and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Cecilia’s Church, Curraghroe on Sunday, 28th January at 10am. Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

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May there always be work for your hands to do. May your purse always hold a coin or two. May the sun always shine on your window pane. May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain. May the hand of a friend always be near you. May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you. In sickness and in health, you set a wonderful example. We miss you every day.

The family of the late Annie Keane wish to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation on the sad passing of Annie. Heartfelt thanks to those who called to our homes, to those who travelled long distances, sent messages of sympathy, telephoned, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, sent floral tributes and Mass cards. A special word of thanks to our neighbours for their kindness and support and to Annie’s relations, neighbours and friends and to the many people who visited Annie. Sincere thanks to Fr. Micheál Donnelly (Annie’s nephew) for a very personal and meaningful Mass and Homily and to those who celebrated Mass with him, Fr. Francis Beirne, Fr. Sean Neylon and Deacon Willie Gacquin. Thanks to Grace and Gerry who provided the music and hymns. Our thanks to Michael Dempsey Undertaker for his kindness and professionalism and to the gravediggers who prepared Annie’s final resting place with care and dignity. Thanks to the staff in Mountbellew Nursing Home who cared so compassionately for Annie. Thanks to Fallon’s, Ballygar for their hospitality. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude for all your support during this difficult time. Mass will be offered for your intentions.

17th Anniversary and 10th Anniversary

(2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Paddy who passed away on 22nd January 2022

Love Lorraine, Sébastien, André, Théo and Léon.

In loving memory of our Mother, grandmother, and great grandmother Who died on 27th January 1994

BRADLY Patrick & Padraic

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Love Olivia, Niall, Mia and Dara. In life I loved you dearly, in death I love you still. In my heart you hold a place, that no one could ever fill. With love Pat, Ruth, Ruairc and Éabha. Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, we who love you will never forget. You are always with us. Love Joe, Tara, Saoirse and Oisín. Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 3rd February at 7pm.

THANKSGIVINGS HOLY NAME OF JESUS Earlier this month, on the 3rd of January to be precise, we celebrated the very important feast of the Holy Name of Jesus. The name ‘Jesus’ means ‘He Saves’ and that’s exactly what Jesus did for you, me and everyone when He shed the very last drop of His blood on the cross. When we reverently and prayerfully pronounce the Name of Jesus, we offer to God the Father all the merits of the Passion of Jesus thereby bringing upon ourselves and our families an abundance of graces and blessings. By the Name of Jesus miracles can and do happen, The Name of Jesus is to be revered and respected and only spoken with due reverence. It is not to be bandied around in casual conversation and used as an expression of anger, horror, surprise or as a template in response to any comment basically.Jesus Himself said He will not leave unpunished those who utter His Name to misuse It. Of course Confession is available to those who wish to repent and the Mercy of God is greater than we can ever imagine. Confession is a wonderful source of healing for mind, body and spirit and the great news is it’s free! I’ll conclude with a prayer which makes reparation to Jesus for the abuse of His Holy Name by ourselves and others: May the most holy, most sacred, most adorable, most mysterious and unutterable Name of God be always praised, blessed, loved, adored and glorified in Heaven, on earth and under the earth, by all the creatures of God and by the Sacred Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ in the most Holy Sacrament of the altar. Kevin Wynne, Lough Allen, Carrick on Shannon

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Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

Tyrone a formidable opener, but Rossies will target a win Ciaran Lennon in action for Roscommon during last Friday’s Connacht FBD League final between Roscommon and Galway in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Allianz National Football League Division 1: Tyrone v Roscommon at Healy Park, Omagh on Sunday at 3.45 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

And so it starts all over again. Another huge season for Roscommon footballers is upon us, and with just three of our seven games at home this time around – and Dublin and Derry having joined the top table – this is going to be a tough campaign for Davy Burke’s men. The Roscommon manager says he will go out to try and win every game. The reality is that six points would probably be enough to keep

Roscommon up. Looking at the schedule of matches, Sunday’s game against Tyrone is one that Roscommon can target for a win. The Red Hand county have been one of the strongest in the country over the last two decades, but their star has slipped a little in the past couple of years and especially since they won the 2021 All-Ireland title. Conor Carroll is nailed on as the starting goalkeeper for Roscommon, but there are places up for grabs in front of him. Brian Stack (one of the St Brigid’s’ absentees) will be a huge loss. Niall Daly, Davy Murray, Colin Walsh and Eoin McCormack look certain to figure in defence, but the likes of Luke Glennon, Niall Higgins, Senan Lambe and Evan Flynn have seen game time in recent weeks and could come into contention. Ro-

nan Daly and Conor Hussey are back in action too. In the absence of Enda Smith (suspended), Keith Doyle and Dylan Ruane will probably form the midfield partnership. Up front, Diarmuid Murtagh, Conor Cox, Cathal Heneghan and Donie Smith look likely starters, while Daire Cregg could well get the nod. Adam McDermott and Ciaran Lennon are also in with a chance in the absence of Ben O’Carroll. Tyrone still have some fantastic players but are not as formidable as in recent years. Niall Morgan remains a colossus between the posts and they will also be looking to the likes of Michael McKiernan, Padraig Hampsey and Niall Devlin in defence. Peter Harte, still a major influence, may well be used in attack this season. Darren McCurry, Conn Kilpatrick

AROUND THE GROUNDS Division One focus < SEAMUS DUKE

Kerry v Derry in Tralee on Saturday (5.30 pm) On paper, this is definitely the game of the weekend. The Glen players will be a loss to Derry. Boosted by home advantage, Jack

O’Connor’s men will be keen to get off to a winning start. They should be good enough to take the points. Dublin v Monaghan in Croke Park on Saturday (7.30 pm) If there is ever a good time to play Dublin in Croke Park then this is it. The Dubs are just back from their team holiday and it’s the beginning of a new

and Darragh and Ruairi Canavan are exceptionally talented players. Joint managers Fergal Logan and Brian Dooher were given a further three years in charge recently and they will be aiming to knock Derry off their pedestal later on in the year in the Ulster Championship. Staying in Division One will be high on their priority list too. On paper this looks like a massive task facing Roscommon but it is a game that they can win. They are without probably their two best players, Brian Stack and Enda Smith, but there is scoring power there. Tyrone represent difficult opponents, but then again every game in this division will be tough. If Roscommon hit the ground running, they can get their league campaign off to a flier. Prediction: Roscommon.

campaign. If Monaghan really get stuck in they can cause a bit of a shock. Galway v Mayo in Pearse Stadium on Sunday (1.45 pm) A fascinating clash in prospect here. Both sides will be desperate to start their year with a win. It’s hard to pick a winner in this one, in fact it may well end up in a draw!

GAA fixtures Sunday, January 28th Allianz Football League Division 1 At Healy Park, Omagh: Roscommon v Tyrone. 3.45 pm Lidl Ladies NFL Division 3 At Kiltoom: Roscommon v Louth. 2 pm

Soccer fixtures Friday, January 26th RDFL Premier Division Shiven Rovers v Ballinasloe Town. 8 pm RDFL First Division Dunmore Town v Moylough ’79. 8 pm Saturday, January 27th RDFL Women’s League Shiven Rovers v Cam Celtic. 8 pm Kilkerrin Utd v Castlerea Celtic. 8 pm RDFL Reserve League Dunmore Town v Moore Utd. 12 pm CP Ajax v Ballinagare Manor. 12 pm Sunday, January 28th RDFL Premier Division St John’s Athletic v Ballaghaderreen. 2 pm Moore Utd v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm CP Ajax v Castlerea Celtic. 2 pm RDFL First Division Ballinagare Manor v Skyvalley Rovers. 11 am Glen Celtic v Ballymoe. 11 am RDFL Second Division Rahara Rovers v Ballaghaderreen B. 11 am Cam/Dysart v Cloonfad Utd. 11 am Roscommon Utd v St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh. 11 am RDFL Women’s League Ballaghaderreen v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Storm Isha plays havoc with rugby fixtures The arrival of Storm Isha took effect on Sunday with all rugby in Connacht being cancelled for safety reasons. As a result, the Creggs first team quarter-final against Connemara and the Creggs seconds’ league match against Ballina RFC were cancelled. The new dates have not yet been arranged. Keep an eye on the Creggs RFC social media channels for updates later in the week. Creggs Minis: The Creggs mini section were the lucky ones last weekend when their training session went ahead before Storm Isha landed. A bright sunny morning again saw a big attendance. Thanks to the TY students who are doing a coaching course at present and who helped out in this live training session. Meabh is from Roscommon Convent, Gerard, Adam and Conor are from Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar and Liam, Leo, Cian and Padraig are from Roscommon CBS. Division finals: Congrats to Dunmore RFC on beating Carrick-on-Shannon RFC in the Connacht Boys Division 2 league final which was played in Creggs on Saturday, and also to Corinthians RFC on beating Sligo RFC in the U-15s Boys Division 1 final which was also played in Creggs on Saturday. Lotto: This week’s lotto jackpot was not won and now sits at €11,800. Last week’s lucky dip winner was Tom Callaghan. Please support our lotto on www.creggsrugby.ie

The Creggs girls mini training in full swing on Sunday morning before Storm Isha hit in the afternoon.

The Creggs boys mini training went ahead on Sunday morning before Storm Isha hit in the afternoon.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

BUCCANEERS RFC

It’s Naas next for Buccaneers Buccaneers are at home to Naas in the Energia All-Ireland League at Dubarry Park on Saturday, with the action kicking off at 2.30 pm. U-20s away to St. Mary’s College: Buccaneers U-20s’ game against UCD was postponed last weekend due to the stormy weather. They face another city side this Sunday when they play St Mary’s College away in the JP Fanagan Leinster Premier League 2. Kick-off at 2.30 pm. Buccaneers Seconds: Buccaneers Seconds’ Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup tie away to Sligo will possibly be rescheduled for Sunday at Hamilton Park where kickoff would more than likely be 2 pm. Buccs lose out to Garryowen in AIL: Buccaneers were desperately disappointed to leave Dooradoyle emptyhanded after last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B fixture at the windy and showery Limerick venue where Garryowen emerged with a 33-17 victory. Buccs beat Monivea in Junior Cup: Buccaneers made a winning start to their Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup campaign with a 31-14 victory over Monivea at the Castle Grounds. Buccs U-14s girls: Buccaneers U-14s girls team continued their unbeaten season with an emphatic 48-5 win over a strong Tuam/Oughterard side in Round 10 of Tier 1 Connacht U-14 League at Dubarry Park last Saturday. Next up are two away trips to Gort and then local rivals Ballinasloe, before the real competition begins mid-February with the Connacht Cup. Table Quiz: Buccaneers Senior squad are holding a Table Quiz in The Bounty on Thursday, 1st of February at 8.15 pm. Entry fee is €40 for tables of four. Complimentary finger food will be served and there will also be a raffle.

Short putts

(News from local golf clubs)

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON Congratulations to Frank Duffy who won the recent Gents club competition with 21 pts, followed by Hugh Gralton in second with 19 pts. Jim King was crowned 2023 Men’s Golfer of the Year on with a score of 60 pts. In the ladies section, Geraldine Farry won Ladies Gross Golfer of the Year with a score of 355 pts and Phil Emmett won Ladies Net Golfer of the Year with a score of 277 pts. The timesheet is now open for entry to the Flynn’s Bar-sponsored Spring League. A big thank you to Shane Fitzpatrick at Flynn’s for their very generous sponsorship this year again. Teams will be picked on Sunday, 28th of January at 4 pm. Weather permitting, the league will consist of six weekly rounds, commencing Monday, January 29th and ending on Sunday, March 3rd. The format will be 9-hole stableford. With €1000 of prize money on offer, we hope to have a strong entry again this year.

CASTLEREA There was a great turnout for Castlerea Golf Club’s AGM which was held on the 18th of December with great discussion about the 2024 golf season. At the AGM the following officers were elected – President: Mary Colleary; Chairperson: Liam Callaghan; Honorary Secretary: Jean Timothy; Honorary Treasurer: Michael McGovern; 2024 Women’s Captain: Dympna McDonnell; 2024 Men’s Captain: Eugene O’Connell. The club would like to wish the committee and all our current members, along with any new president members, a very success- Newly-elected of Castlerea Golf Club, ful playing season. Mary Colleary.

Adrian Grealy of the Abbey Hotel presents the West Coast 2024 Men’s trophy to the Donegal team captain.

Large crowds attend West Coast Challenge Darts Event

Last weekend over 600 darts players and supporters descended on the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon for The West Coast Challenge Darts Event. Over the next few weeks, we’ll take a look at the numerous events which took place, starting with the men’s team event. Sixteen men’s teams took part in the event divided into four groups of four,

with the first two teams being the ones who progressed to the Cup, and the second two progressing to the Shield. The groups were: Group 1 – Donegal A, Limerick, Roscommon B, Leitrim B. Group 2 – Donegal B, Sligo B, Galway B, Mayo B. Group 3 – Clare, Roscommon A, Galway A, Donegal C. Group 4 – Sligo A, Mayo A, Leitrim A, Longford.

Limerick looked strong throughout the day, and quarter-final wins over Sligo A (7-1) and Clare (7-5) was evidence of this. Donegal A were always going to be in the mix, and they too swept to the finals courtesy of wins over Mayo A (7-3) and Roscommon A (7-1) at the knockout stages. A tight final ensued with some top class darts, and in

the end it was Donegal A who took the win on a 7-4 scoreline. Well done to both teams on a top class standard throughout the day. Particular congratulations to Donegal who continue to set the standard for darts at intercounty level, proving it with yet another win. Special thanks to main sponsors of the event the Abbey Hotel for all the

help and support over the event. The scoring for the knockout stage was: Quarter-finals (Best of 13) Donegal A 7 Mayo A 3; Roscommon A 7 Donegal B 6; Clare 7 Sligo B 5; Limerick 7 Sligo A 1. Semifinals (Best of 13) Donegal A 7 Roscommon A 1, Limerick 7 Clare 5. Final (Best of 13) Donegal A 7 Limerick 4.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

SportsPeople

Mullins completes Fairyhouse four-timer Horses for Courses Willie Mullins completed a four-timer at Fairyhouse yesterday (Wednesday) winning with Spread Boss Ted, Spindleberry and O’Moore Park, all ridden by Paul Townend and Mark Walsh completing the feat on Mirazur West for owner JP McManus. There are no Irish runners in the Clarence House as Wil-

lie Mullins is opting for the Dublin Racing Festival with El Fabiolo. There are several Irish runners in Cheltenham and the best of them looks to be Mullins’ Lossiemouth, the favourite, but Mullins also has Impaire Et Passe which is not out of the reckoning in the Unibet Hurdle.

by Tom Red

This weekend’s racing Racing this week starts today (Thursday) at Gowran Park in Kilkenny featuring the Grade 3 Thyestes Chase and Grade 2 Galmoy Hurdle with a 1.05 pm start. Tomorrow’s (Friday) evening meeting is on the flat at Dundalk’s all-weather

track, starting at 4 pm. National hunt racing on Saturday is at Fairyhouse and is away at 1.05 pm. Sunday’s fare is at the punter’s graveyard, Naas in Co Kildare, with a 1 pm start with 2 Grade 3 races, the Naas Novice Chase, and the Limestone Lad Hurdle. Racing on Monday is again in Co Kildare at Punchestown with tapes away at 1.10 pm. Weather continued to affect racing on both sides of the Irish sea last weekend with the meetings at Lingfield and Market Rasen last Friday, Ascot, Haydock, with Taunton on Saturday and Fakenham on Sunday all lost to Jack Frost.

On TV Terrestrial TV racing coverage starts on Saturday. ITV Racing is covering five races from Trials Day at Cheltenham and three from Doncaster. There are five Grade 2 races on the Cheltenham card, the Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle, Cotswolds Chase, the Unibet Hurdle, the Cleeve Hurdle, and the Super Alloys Novice Hur-

Asian Master and Thomas Costello win at Navan.

Paul Healy

I didn’t get to Croke Park last Sunday (due to a pre-booked trip abroad) but followed the All-Ireland Club SFC final closely online. What a momentous effort by St Brigid’s, who clearly went to HQ with a rocksolid belief that they could win, and who came agonisingly close to doing precisely that. Playing the free-flowing, intelligent and attractive football that we have become familiar with, St Brigid’s outplayed an unsettled Glen for most of Sunday’s final. Ben O’Carroll, whom I’ll never tire of championing, treated a national audience to samples of his brilliance. What a joy it is to watch this young star dazzle on the GAA grounds of the land. With the Roscommon and Connacht champions four points clear going into the final three or four minutes, a sensational second All-Ireland title seemed destined for the club (previously winners of the competition in 2013). Of course three or four minutes is still quite a bit of time, backed as it is by the injury-time period that can be your friend or foe. And a goal doesn’t just shake up a scoreboard, it can lead to dizzying psychological fallout.

Racing News The British Horseracing Authority has stepped back on its proposal to limit the number of horses that a trainer can enter in a handicap after consultation with all involved. They were proposing a limit of four horses which would have had a major impact on the Grand National and the big handicaps at Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals. The proposal was formed after Gordon Elliott saddled 14 of the 20 runners in the Troytown Chase at Navan in November, winning it with Coko Beach.

Paisley Park in record bid Emma Lavelle’s veteran 12-year-old Paisley Park, who has won the Grade 2 Cleeve

Conor Glass struck with that goal, and suddenly momentum was with last year’s runners-up. In no time, a shaken St Brigid’s were two behind, after being four up. Sporting drama, Croker a cauldron of sorts now. I can barely imagine how devastating those final moments must have been for the St Brigid’s lads. All credit to Glen, they are the latest example of a team ‘having to lose one to win one’. Assessed on its own merits, their journey has been some rollercoaster, and all fair-minded observers will applaud and congratulate the Derry club on having the strength to come back and claim the title after last year’s trauma. As for St Brigid’s, they were magnificent on Sunday, and did their club, their county – and themselves – proud. It was a sporting sickener, and the anguish it will have caused cannot be underestimated. But St Brigid’s have had a wonderful campaign, and have shown the entire country that they play beautiful football, and that they are a force. If any club – taking a leaf from the Glen handbook – can come back and retrace the steps of this emotion-charged rollercoaster of a campaign, St Brigid’s can. Onwards and upwards.

If an alien was to land in Kiltoom, armed with a (very random) checklist – and ideally a friendly disposition – they would quickly establish what a superbly forward-thinking GAA club looks like. I’ve long admired St Brigid’s, and how this club goes about its business. They are the benchmark for all other clubs locally. I might add that GAA clubs in County Roscommon are generally very progressive, with outstanding volunteerism driving them towards a tremendously impressive ongoing development of facilities, that and the pursuit of playing success. Without digressing too much, I think it is very evident that, pleasing as trophies and medals are, these GAA clubs are genuinely motivated by a generation to generation commitment to providing a playing platform for young people, and joy, fulfilment and a sense of belonging for all in the parish. Back to St Brigid’s. In all my time working in the media in Roscommon, they have been a club committed to setting the highest of standards. The infrastructure and playing numbers at Kiltoom is evidence of that. The club’s historic All-Ireland title win in 2013 was just reward for St Brigid’s’ ongoing development. Their feat in returning to Croke Park on All-Ireland final day this year is further evidence of the club’s ambition, a formidable, classy new St Brigid’s senior team having emerged over the past while. Last Sunday’s onepoint loss to Glen – a cruel out-

Hurdle three times and was third behind the French trained Gold Tweet last season, will attempt to win it for a record 4th time on Saturday. There are two Irish entries, Emmet Mullins’ Noble Yeats, and Stuart Crawford’s Aimie Rose.

Thomas rides second winner Thomas Costello rode his second winner, from three rides on the track, on Saturday as he steered Asian Master (trained by Willie Mullins) to victory in the novice hurdle. Thomas is steeped in racing and is a grandson of the late Tom Costello of Crathloe in Co Clare who passed six Gold Cup winners through his hands in the point to point sphere while his father and uncles all rode over the jumps. Tom Sn is best remembered for selling Best Mate who won a point to point in Belclare outside Tuam in 1999, along with Midnight Court, The Thinker, Cool Ground, Imperial Call, and Cool Dawn.

2-11) at the Air Dome in Ballyhaunis. The Westport side led by 2-5 to 1-6 at the break and their ability to score goals at crucial times was the deciding factor in the end. Best for Roscommon were Aisling Shanagher, Siofra Hession, Ciara Dowd and Lilly Murray.

Super St Brigid’s can do it all again

SPORTS DESK Unlucky St Brigid’s so close to glory

dle, plus the Grade 1 Clarence House Chase transferred from last Saturday’s abandoned meeting at Ascot. There are two Grade 2 rases from Doncaster, the Yorkshire Rose Mares Hurdle, and the River Don Novices Hurdle.

Comans’ swimmers excel

Ava Kiernan from Comans Swimming Club pictured at the Long Course Gerry Ryan Memorial Gala held at the University of Limerick recently.

come, given where St Brigid’s were a few minutes earlier – is a heartbreaker, but it can also further motivate the Kiltoom club to continue its onward march. St Brigid’s undoubtedly have what it takes to do it all again. They have the capacity to dust themselves down, and resume their dream of following in the footsteps of the heroes of 2013. They absolutely can return to the summit. We’d expect nothing less of St Brigid’s.

Great start for ladies

Roscommon began the new season with an excellent 0-11 to 0-4 win against Down in their Lidl Ladies Football National League opener at Pairc an Piarsiagh last Sunday.

Ollie Lennon’s side took advantage of the conditions in the opening half to open up a 0-7 to 0-1 half-time lead with Caoimhe Cregg, Aisling Feely, Laura Fleming and Aisling Hanly particularly prominent. The home team held their Down opponents to just 0-3 in the second half, with the Roscommon defence outstanding. Roscommon will now face Louth in round 2 this Sunday in Kiltoom (2 pm). Another win would put the team in an excellent position for the rest of the campaign. In Colleges football the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon came up just short in the Connacht Senior A final last Thursday when they were defeated by Sacred Heart School (4-8 to

Comans Swimming Club had a stand-out performance at the Long Course Gerry Ryan Memorial Gala held at the University of Limerick on the 21st and 22nd of January. Notably, Ava Kiernan showcased her talent by securing a remarkable 3rd place finish in the U-12s’ 200m, marking her debut in a Long Course gala. Ava also clinched a 2nd place finish in the 50m freestyle, achieving Summer Nationals times. Jun Hwang delivered an impressive performance when attaining a Summer Nationals time in the U-15s 100m Backstroke. Additionally, Aoife Lavin and Sarah Keane achieved consideration times in the 200M Backstroke. The event also saw outstanding racing and personal bests from Michael Lavin, Aoife Lavin, Ciara Lally, Michael Tiernan and Sarah Keane, adding to the club’s overall success. Congratulations to all the swimmers for their dedication and achievements at this prestigious competition. The future looks bright for Comans Swimming Club!

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

SportsPeople

Burke hails ‘huge rewards’ of FBD League

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

FBD League Final Roscommon 2-25 Galway 0-13 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Davy Burke believes the management team has got “huge rewards” from the FBD League over recent weeks, with significant depth added to the squad. It was an upbeat Burke who spoke to the media last Friday night after Roscommon had cruised to their first FBD League title since 2019 by defeating Galway. Their win at the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome was Roscommon’s 6th success in the competition. Seldom, if ever, have they had such a comfortable victory in the 29-year history of the FBD League. Burke indicated that he is happy with his team’s FBD experience this year. “I think we have got huge rewards from this competition. We have got depth in our squad now. We have new lads ready to go and others who will need more time. “I think that there is a freshness about Roscommon this

year. We have some great new lads like Evan Flynn and Niall Higgins and others who have come in too so we will have a new-look side this year. “Conor Hussey, Ronan Daly and Tadhg O’Rourke are all there or thereabouts. There are three or four more that will be involved too”. As the Roscommon manager turns his attention to the serious business of the National Football League, he pledged that Roscommon will be intent on giving it their all. “We are going into Division One to win games, just like everyone else. We will win games and lose games and so will Dublin and Kerry. We are not viewing the league as just (about) staying up. We are going into it to win games and to drive on then to the Connacht Championship”. Galway chose to send out a development squad last Friday night, and despite the fact that Roscommon fielded a number of inexperienced players themselves, they won as they pleased, running up a huge score in the process. In truth, this game was over after 20 minutes and both sides went through the motions in a very low-key second half.

For Burke and his selectors, who took this competition seriously, they will have got vital game time into the legs of several newcomers, but it remains to be seen just how helpful this tournament has been preparation-wise when teams dip their toes into the shark-infested waters of the National Football League this weekend. Put simply, this was a stroll in the dome for Roscommon. Diarmuid Murtagh, Conor Cox and Cathal Heneghan sparkled as Roscommon set about the Tribesmen early and often. With the score at 0-4 to 0-1 in favour of Roscommon, Eoin McCormack sliced through the Galway defence for a 9th minute goal (after great work from Dylan Ruane and Cian Connolly). Even at that stage, Galway were in big trouble. By the time Niall Higgins was shown a black card (a harsh award) in the 27th minute, Roscommon were 1-12 to 0-4 in front, and Diarmuid Murtagh and Conor Cox had already been substituted. By half-time Roscommon led 1-14 to 0-6, with Davy Burke having brought on five subs. The pattern continued in the

second half with Roscommon’s entire panel getting a run. Andy Glennon came on and kicked two long-range points, while Enda and Donie Smith were prominent for a completely dominant Roscommon. Cillian O Currain was Galway’s only stand-out performer, keeping the scoreboard ticking over with a number of frees. Enda Smith capped a commanding Roscommon display in the 66th minute when he fisted to the net after a fine move involving five players. It was fitting that Diarmuid Murtagh, who was playing his 100th competitive match for Roscommon, received the Paddy Francis Dwyer Cup after the game. Not every team took the FBD League too seriously, but Roscommon had three good outings. Players like Senan Lambe, Evan Flynn, Niall Higgins, Paddy Gavin, Luke Glennon, Declan Kenny and Jack Duggan have all got valuable game time over recent weeks, and with the St Brigid’s players to return, Davy Burke is building a strong panel which he will certainly need for the demanding league campaign ahead.

Stat Attack

Teams & scorers

Wides: Roscommon 5 (3, first half ); Galway 11 (6, first half )

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Paddy Gavin, Luke Glennon, Caelim Keogh; Niall Higgins (0-1), Evan Flynn, Eoin McCormack (1-0); Keith Doyle, Dylan Ruane (0-3, 1 mark); Cian Connolly (0-1), Diarmuid Murtagh (0-1, free), Ciaran Lennon (0-2); Adam McDermott (0-2), Cathal Heneghan (0-3), Conor Cox (0-2). Subs: Enda Smith (1-0) for Murtagh (23); Andy Glennon (0-2) for Cox (25); Donie Smith (0-3, 2 frees) for Connolly (33); Niall Daly for McCormack (35); Declan Kenny (0-1) for Keogh (35); Colm Lavin for Carroll (h/t); Davy Murray for Glennon (h/t); Jack Duggan

Red cards: 0 Black cards: Roscommon 1 (Niall Higgins, 27); Galway 0 Yellow cards: Roscommon 1 (Conor Cox); Galway 4 (Jack Kirrane, Céin Darcy, Charlie Power, Rory Cunningham) Attendance: 2,237 Adam McDermott tries to get around Galway’s Billy Mannion during last Friday’s Connacht FBD League final in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Galway’s Ciarán Brady rises high for the ball during last Friday’s Connacht FBD League final between Roscommon and Galway in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Man of the Match: Cathal Heneghan (Roscommon)

The Roscommon team and subs pictured ahead of their Connacht FBD League final clash with Galway last Friday evening in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

(0-1) for McDermott (41); Senan Lambe (0-1) for Heneghan (46); Colin Walsh for Flynn (54); Daire Cregg (0-2, 1 free) for Doyle (60). Galway: Oran Burke; Liam Boyle, Billy Mannion, Darragh Varley; Cian Monaghan, Jack Kirrane, Daniel O’Flaherty; Ciaran Brady, Céin Darcy (0-1); Ryan Monaghan, Antaine O Laoi (0-1, free), Jack O’Neill; Liam Costello (0-1), Charlie Power, Cillian O Currain (0-10, 7 frees, 1 ’45). Subs: Rory Cunningham for O’Neill; Diarmuid Kilcommins for Flaherty; Ger Davoren for Ó Laoi; Donal Hunt for C Monaghan; Shane McGrath for Costello; Mark Colleran for Power; Conor Rafferty for Brady.

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Shell-shocked Stack hails his young stars < SEAMUS DUKE

It was an understandably shellshocked St Brigid’s manager Jerome Stack who faced the media just minutes after their agonising onepoint loss. He was full of praise for his young team who had come so close to being crowned All-Ireland champions. “I’m going to be straight, I’m not going to go analysing why or why not, it’s just too raw now and I wouldn’t be giving you proper answers, because I’d have to look at it back again. “All I do know is that at half-time, after losing the lead and conceding the goal, we were set a really difficult task for the second half. But that bunch of players, the whole panel – and not everybody gets a run on the day – the spirit and unity within that panel, they have no fear of playing anybody or (of) the situation. I’m so proud of them. I think that they’re a marvellous bunch of players so I’m not going to get into the different parts of the game, but we were facing a really tough task in the second half, really difficult conditions, everything coming against us, and they nearly went and did it”. The Listowel native also paid tribute to Glen who came back from the dead in the closing minutes to win the title. “Glen are a marvellous team, they’ve come to two All-Irelands

in a row, they were a kick of a ball away from it last year, they came back this year and that’s a fantastic achievement in itself. They’re obviously a fantastic bunch, and they have huge desire and hunger and I respect that. “Our dressing room is hugely disappointed, and I’m terribly disappointed for the players, but I have respect for what they’ve done as well”. The St Brigid’s manager said that the character of his young team showed through all the way into the dying seconds. “We went two down in the last couple of minutes and we brought it back to within one. There’s character there. I know they’re very good footballers, that was never in doubt, but I think they’ve showed tremendous character. They’re young and they’re not beaten because they’ll keep coming back. “But it was very difficult for us, and obviously with the breeze making it harder for us to get traction on our own kick-outs in the last couple of minutes… and Conor Glass, being the player he is, driving through… they were getting momentum there. But we didn’t die, we turned them over and we went at it again. “We came to have more than a go, we believed that we were going to win that match, and that’s the way we went about our business. I couldn’t be more proud of those players, they have done that all year” Jerome concluded.

‘Unreal’ – Glen manager reflects on dramatic win < SEAMUS DUKE

The experienced Malachy O’Rourke has seen most things in Gaelic football over his long career. Last Sunday’s drama in Croke Park was another chapter in his journey, and ultimately a joyous one. As glorious as the outcome was for his team, O’Rourke was a very relieved man when he spoke to reporters after the match. “Unreal” was his opening comment, followed by the not unreasonable verdict that it had been a “strange” game. It soon materialised that that choice of word was a judgement on his own team’s uneven performance.

“It was a strange game. I said to someone else (that) we nearly saved our worst until last. We just couldn’t get going at all”. O’Rourke admitted that he shared Conor Glass’s view – expressed moments earlier to reporters – that with his team trailing by “three or four” points with a few minutes to go, Glen’s prospects of winning seemed to be very slim. “It was a great testament to Conor that he didn’t give up and was able to make those big plays. That is pure leadership. That is what we prided ourselves on. “We just keep working, working for each other. Try to make good decisions. It wasn’t looking good, but character showed through in the end”.

Eddie Nolan of St Brigid’s gets past Glen’s Conor Glass during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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‘Storm Naomh Bríd’ will strike again Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

< SEAMUS DUKE

All last weekend, the national media warned about Storm Isha, and while that weather event wreaked havoc around the country, there was another storm in Croke Park on Sunday as St Brigid’s came to HQ and ignored the narrative that Glen would easily win the All-Ireland club final. In fact the Roscommon and Connacht champions came within a kick of a ball of causing a significant upset. The outcome of the game was still undecided moving into the very last seconds of play. As it turned out, Brigid’s were desperately unlucky that they slipped up in those final minutes, meaning that the Andy Merrigan Cup was suddenly on its way to the north-west

– instead of crossing the Shannon, as had seemed very likely up to the 57th minute or so. Despite all the hype during the buildup, the weather in Croker was actually quite good, and especially for the football match. I have been out in far worse weather this winter. The teams served up a superb game of football, with St Brigid’s fantastic at times. Pearse Frost’s growing reputation as a corner-back of real substance was further enhanced as he produced another fantastic display. Surely it won’t be long before he is wearing the primrose and blue of Roscommon. Brian and Ronan Stack led from the front again, while Eddie Nolan kicked two wonderful points from midfield. Brian Derwin was very effective at

full-forward and it was perplexing to see him being taken off shortly after he’d scored a goal and a quite brilliant point in the second half. Ruaidhri Fallon was superb again, and it’s only a matter of time before we witness his elevation to the county senior team. He has all the attributes to make a top class player at inter-county level. Then you have Ben O’Carroll, who is a Rolls Royce of a player. Glen doublemarked him a lot of the time, but it didn’t greatly matter. He won almost every ball that was kicked in his direction and was a constant thorn in the Derry side. His vision and awareness is top class. Folks, we have a gem on our hands. What unfolded over those final few minutes will be a recurring nightmare

down Kiltoom way. The quick free under the Cusack Stand, the loss of possession, and the way Conor Glass was able to get in for that crucial late goal will be seared in the minds of this young Brigid’s team for a long time to come. But when the pain eases they will realise that they played so well and were only denied by a bit of bad luck. It just wasn’t their day. They are a young team and will surely be back, although it is so hard to get all the way to an All-Ireland club final. There are rumours that Conor Carroll could be playing in green and red next season and that Anthony Cunningham will be their next manager. Interesting developments if they come to pass. A huge crowd of Roscommon people went to Croker on Sunday (from

all parts of the county) and while they didn’t see a win, they saw a young team full of skill and determination bring a fancied and experienced team right to the very last kick of the game. St Brigid’s have done themselves and their county proud. I know the Brigid’s fans might not see it this way this week, but there were two mighty games in Croker on Sunday. The score that won St Thomas the hurling title was one of the greatest ever seen at the famous old ground. The club championships are a breath of fresh air. There are new names coming along every year. Well done to Glen and St Thomas on their victories. It was a very tough day for St Brigid’s but – as they say – ‘Beidh lá eile’. Storm ‘Naomh Bríd’ will strike again.

‘I thought we were dead and buried’ – Glass Glen’s Conor Glass in action during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final against St Brigid’s in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

< SEAMUS DUKE

Beaming Glen captain Conor Glass couldn’t hide his joy after lifting the Andy Merrigan Cup following his team’s epic victory. He spoke about the closing ten minutes which were so decisive in the final analysis. “After they went four points up and we had

the black card, I thought we were dead and buried. Between the 50th and 60th minute, that 10-minute spell went by so quickly. There were multiple times I thought the game was gone”. He continued: “The point Michael Warnock got to bring it back to a one-kick game, it was absolutely huge. Our shot selection all day was

terrible, but we just got on with it… short-term memory… forget about those misses, and focus on what we can control. What we could control was the next kick-out, the next attack, that sort of way. It shows the character this team has”. It was the very influential Glass who popped up with the late Glen goal that ultimately cata-

pulted his team to within sight of an unlikely victory. I was lucky to get on the end of it (the goal), I put my foot through it, and we kicked on from there. “Here we are, All-Ireland champions, it is a pretty good feeling” Conor concluded, perhaps not realising quite how big an understatement that was!

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

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Agony for Brigid’s as GLASS SHATTERS dream

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Conor Hand of St Brigid’s protects the ball from Glen’s Ciarán McFaul during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC Final Glen (Derry) 2-10 St Brigid’s 1-12 < SEAMUS DUKE

Brian Derwin scores a goal for St Brigid’s during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

It doesn’t get any more heartbreaking than this. The young warriors of St Brigid’s came to Croke Park last Sunday, defied the odds, were the better team for 55 minutes or so, and yet walked away with nothing tangible as Glen came with a late, late burst to take the title after a pulsating AIB All-Ireland senior club final. Leading by 1-11 to 1-7 with just five minutes of normal time remaining, Brigid’s looked set to defy the pre-match odds and claim a magnificent All-Ireland victory. They had played most of the football and indeed probably should have been even further ahead on the balance of play. Everything changed when Glen took advantage of a mixup in the Brigid’s defence over on the Cusack Stand sideline in the 58th minute. There were three points between the sides. A quick free by Brigid’s went astray, Conleth McGuckian passed to Conor Glass and the Glen captain buried the ball in the Brigid’s net to level the scores. Then points from an Emmett Bradley free and another from McGuckian saw the Ulster champions go two ahead inside injury-time. As St Brigid’s reeled from the

turnaround, Shane Cunnane pointed a free in the 64th minute (injury-time) to reduce the margin to one. On the kick-out, Brigid’s won possession and were awarded another free, this one on the 45-metre line. On this occasion, Cunanne was just wide. Glen had dramatically claimed the title. The final whistle brought about incredible scenes. The Derry men were ecstatic and emotional, scarcely believing how they had actually won the game, while many St Brigid’s players fell to the turf in disbelief over how they had managed to lose it. In conditions that weren’t as bad as had been feared, the attendance was treated to a thrilling game. Brigid’s were the better side from the throwin. Points from Brian Stack and a Ben O’Carroll free answered Glen scores from Emmett Bradley (2, 1 free) in the opening minutes. Ben O’Carroll was getting an upperhand up front and Ruaidhri Fallon, Eddie Nolan and Pearse Frost were also magnificent as Brigid’s ignored the pre-match narrative that Glen would win with a bit to spare. Ben O’Carroll (2, both frees), Bobby Nugent, Ciaran Sugrue and Eddie Nolan scored magnificent points to see the Roscommon champions into a 0-7 to 0-3 lead, with Glen’s only reply coming from the boot of their best player, Conor Glass. Indeed the St Brigid’s lead could have been even bigger as they missed two great goal

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024

SportsPeople

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Ben O’Carroll in action for St Brigid’s during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final against Glen in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

chances in that first half. In the 13th minute, fantastic play by Ruaidhri Fallon secured possession, and he put Ben O’Carroll through one on one with Connlan Bradley. The Glen net-minder smothered O’Carroll’s shot away to safety. Ten minutes later Robbie Dolan was in an excellent position but his shot was blocked. They were to prove costly misses. Ciaran McFaul and Ruaidhri Fallon exchanged points by the 27th minute but the Derry men struck a couple of vital scores before the break and against the run of play. In the 28th minute McGuckian intercepted a Brian Stack pass before passing to Jody McDermott who blasted to the Brigid’s net. A minute later Ethan Doherty tied up the scores with a well-taken point. Half-time score: St Brigid’s 0-8 Glen 1-5. Brigid’s were once again the better team on the restart. They exploded from the blocks with a brilliant team goal less than two minutes in. Robbie Dolan and Ben O’Carroll did the spadework. Dolan played a sumptuous pass to O’Carroll who set up the inrushing Brian Derwin to score. When the same player added a quite magnificent point in the 34th minute, Brigid’s were once again four ahead. Brigid’s were holding on to the ball well and playing some fantastic football. Glen were reduced to 14 men in the 47th minute when Cathal Mulholland was black-carded. Brigid’s held on to that four-point lead until the 55th minute, by which

stage they were looking very well placed to win the title. However, Glen struck with deadly effect in the final minutes of this epic contest. First, corner-back Michael Warnock pointed in the 56th minute. Then Glass struck with that opportunist goal in the 57th minute to level the game. Now, for the very first time in the contest, St Brigid’s were strug-

gling. Then, when Glen went ahead, there wasn’t enough time to (fully) reel them back in. In fact when the Derry men took the lead in injury-time, it was – remarkably – the first point during the game in which they were ahead on the scoreboard. The agonising one-point defeat that played out in injury-time was a real heartbreaker for Brigid’s, who were magnificent

on the day. Pearse Frost was superb all through in the full-back line while Brian Stack and Ronan Stack were also prominent in defence. Eddie Nolan had a fine game at midfield, while up front Ruaidhri Fallon and Brian Derwin were excellent. Ben O’Carroll stood out again. What a magnificent player he is. He had to cope with double marking for most of the game

but time after time he won the ball against all the odds. Glen will thank their lucky stars that they have Conor Glass in their team. The Derry All-Star was superb. He kept them in the game all through, with that late goal the crucial score. Others to do well for the Derry men were Michael Warnock, Ciaran McFaul and Conleth McGuckian.

Heartbreak for St Brigid’s as they lost Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final to Glen by one point in Croke Park after leading by four going into the closing minutes. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Teams & scorers Glen: Connlan Bradley; Michael Warnock (0-1), Ryan Dougan, Connor Carville; Eunan Mulholland, Ciaran McFaul (0-1), Cathal Mulholland; Conor Glass (1-2, 1 ’45), Emmett Bradley (0-4, all frees); Ethan Doherty (0-1), Jody McDermott (1-0), Tiarnan Flanagan; Alex Doherty, Danny Tallon, Conleth McGuckian (0-1). Subs: Conor Convery for Mulholland (25), Stevie O’Hara for Carville (43), Cahir McCabe for Doherty (55). St Brigid’s: Cormac Sheehy; Alan Daly, Brian Stack (0-1), Pearse Frost; Ruaidhri Fallon (0-2), Ronan Stack, Paul McGrath; Eddie Nolan (0-2), Shane Cunnane (0-1, free); Conor Hand, Ciaran Sugrue (0-1), Robbie Dolan; Ben O’Carroll (0-3, frees), Brian Derwin (1-1, 1 free), Bobby Nugent (0-1). Subs: John Cunningham for Derwin (44), Conor Gleeson for Nugent (56). Referee: Brendan Cawley (Kildare). Stat Attack Wides: Glen 11 (5, first half ); St Brigid’s 2 (1, first half ) Red cards: 0 Black cards: Glen 2 (Cathal Mulholland, 47; Conleth McGuckian, 64) Yellow cards: 0 Attendance: 18,567 Man of the Match: Conor Glass (Glen)

Roscommon People Friday 26 January 2024