Callaghan query on next chapter in library saga

Cllr. Liam Callaghan has sought an update on proposed works in Ballaghaderreen in relation to the upgrading of the new library.

Speaking at a recent Boyle Municipal District meeting Cllr. Callaghan said he was aware that upgrade of the heating system could further delay the opening of the new library until 2024 and wondered if the Council were considering opening a temporary library in the interim.

Cllr. Callaghan was informed that the option of identifying and leasing a suitable building was at an advanced stage, but not finalised. For now, mobile services will continue as normal in the town.

Cllr. Callaghan said he was “understanding of the delayed works” – and added that the new library, when complete, will be a state-of-the-art building.

Bi-Annual Plenary and Networking Event

"Equipping our communities with the resources they need to engage in positive sustainable development 31/May/23 31st

The evening will focus on empowering communities with knowledge and resources on emerging opportunities, including the announcement of a new Climate Action fund to support groups to deliver sustainable projects going forward.

Roscommon PPN aims to strengthen their connections with groups and increase their representation on local decision-making structures including Roscommon County Council Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs), the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), Joint Policing Committee (JPC), the Heritage Forum and other representative bodies.

The event will commence with a welcoming address from the Chairperson of Roscommon PPN, Margaret Mulligan, followed by a series of Plenary formalities including the presentation of an activity report, a financial and budget update and the ratification of the network’s Secretariat and PPN representation on local decisionmaking bodies.

Members of Roscommon County Council’s new Climate Action Unit will also be in attendance and will outline their plans for leading change at a local level, including the announcement of €400,000 in funding to support communities to become more sustainable in their future project delivery.

A panel discussion will also highlight other supports and opportunities available to PPN groups, including a spotlight on exciting local tourism and heritage events taking place over the summer period. The event will culminate with an informative networking showcase where attendees will receive a wealth of information from local development stakeholders. The night will also afford members of the PPN the opportunity to network.

Refreshments will be served and all potential new members are encouraged to attend this FREE event. One can register for the event today by emailing the Roscommon PPN team on info@roscommonppn. ie or calling 086 0478616. Online registration is also open and the booking link can be found on Roscommon PPN’s Facebook Page and website.

Plenary Schedule

7:45 - 8:00: Registration, Networking, and Refreshments

8:00 - 8:05: Welcome and Introductions

Margaret Mulligan, RPPN Chair

PPN Activity Report and Financial Update

Ratification of Secretariat and SPC Members

8:30-8:35: Launch of New Roscommon PPN Logo

8:35 - 8:50: New €400,000 Funding Announcement to Support Community Climate Action Initiatives

The Local Authority’s newly formed Climate Action Unit will discuss their plans for leading change and how they can support communities to become more sustainable.

8:50 - 9:00: Panel Discussion- Spotlight on Emerging Supports & Opportunities for Communities

9:00 - 9:05: Concluding Remarks & Networking Showcase

8:05 - 8:30: Plenary Formalities Stands

Bursary announcement: The Percy French Festival

Percy French (1854-1920), best known as a songwriter and artist, was also active as a journalist, magazine editor, and poet. We would like to recruit a graduate/ mature student or academic to assist in the further exploration and presentation of his writings with a planned publication.

A bursary will be provided for the successful applicant by The Percy French Festival. Contact info@percyfrench.ie

Newsbriefs

Car Wash in aid of Castlerea Show

Castlerea Agricultural Show are holding a fundraising Car Wash on Friday, 2nd of June from 10 am to 6 pm on the Square in Castlerea. All funds raised go to the running of the Agricultural Show on the August Bank Holiday Monday. All support is greatly appreciated.

Music and dancing at Kilbride Centre

John Glynn and his band will be playing at Kilbride Community Centre on Sunday, 4th of June next. Music from 10 pm-12. Bar open/refreshments. Admission is just €10. A very enjoyable night for dancers and music fans on the cards. A great social night for all!

All welcome to Carrowbehy/ Caher Bog on Friday!

On this Friday, May 26th, a study visit to Carrowbehy/Caher Bog will take place from 11 am. This event, organised by the Connecting Communities with Peatlands project and Gorthaganny Community Development, promises an unforgettable experience for community groups, nature enthusiasts, researchers, and all those eager to delve into the ancient story of this unique ecosystem. Carrowbehy/Caher Bog, located in Gorthaganny near Castlerea in Co. Roscommon, is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) covering an impressive 343 hectares. Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, this remarkable bog boasts two kilometres of trails, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore its captivating landscapes and discover its hidden treasures. Through collaborations with stakeholders such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service, EU LIFE Living Bog Project, and Gorthaganny Community Development, the bog has seen significant restoration efforts and the development of access roads and trails.

Guided by members of the community, attendees will embark on an educational walk, observing the efforts of the community and the National Parks and Wildlife Service to preserve this unique habitat.

For more information and to reserve your spot, please contact Aoife Kirk (Project Coordinator) on 0876421279 or email aoife@irishrurallink.ie.

London Lasses to launch album at The Dock

Described by Irish Music Magazine as “one of the best bands on the scene today”, the traditional Irish music group, The London Lasses, will launch their 25th anniversary album, LL25, in The Dock in Carrick-onShannon at 8 pm on Friday, June 2nd.

Featuring all-new material and including both past and present band members, LL25 celebrates the band’s musical journey since forming in 1997 and showcases the powerfully traditional signature sound which they’ve become known for.

LL25 is also a celebration of both the close-knit group of musicians who have been part of the Lasses’ story so far, and the long history of traditional Irish music in London, a rich cultural heritage which they are extremely proud to be part of.

The cost of admission on Friday, June 2nd, is €18, with early bird tickets priced at €16. Tickets are available now at thedock.ie or via 071 965 0828.

Concert in Church in Boyle on Sunday

St Joseph’s Church Choir, Boyle, and St Mary’s Church Choir, Carrick-on-Shannon, will perform a concert on Sunday, May 28th, in St Joseph’s Church, Boyle, at 7 pm. The choirs are combining for a night of songs and music to raise funds for the Tommy Simon Care Fund and Mayo Roscommon Hospice in memory of Frankie Simon, who was a treasured member of both choirs before his sad passing in October 2022.

Tickets, priced at €10, are available from choir members and the Tommy Simon Care Fund committee.

Tributes as local businessman is laid to rest

There was widespread shock in Roscommon at news of the untimely passing of prominent local businessman, Donal Haughey, who was laid to rest in his native Athleague yesterday morning (Wednesday) following his sudden death on Saturday last.

A qualified engineer, Mr Haughey from Correal in Athleague, established his own business, Roscommon Windows, in 2012.

A number of warm online tributes have been paid to Mr Haughey, who was described as ‘an absolute gentleman’, who was ‘always a pleasure to deal with’ and a ‘great supporter of all things local’. Posting on social media this week, Roscommon LEADER Partnership extended deepest sympathy to Mr Haughey’s family, friends and work colleagues.