29 January 2021 Roscommon People

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29 January 2021

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At their wits’ end!

Special Lough Funshinagh flooding report. See pages 15 - 17

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Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Mary Beattie assesses the impact of flood water from the window of her home near Lough Funshinagh.

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland

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

Eugene Murphy No 2: Orla Leyden

Senator

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland Stay Home, Stay Safe for all

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Elphin Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Market Square, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

Call me  087 435 3834  090 662 5722 anytime ...

MOBILE: Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh, 087 1668775 Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

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 eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

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

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie AGRICULTURAL LEASE

I own a large farm and I currently all of my land on a short term basis to a neighbouring farmer.

He recently approached me and asked me to enter into a longer term lease with him. Are there any tax advantages of entering into a longer term lease agreement? Please advise me.

Tax rules were amended in recent years in an attempt to encourage farmers to lease their lands on a long term basis to other active farmers. Land leasing occurs when a land owner (Lessor) leases his land to another active farmer (Lessee).

I understand that tax measures were introduced in recent years whereby a land owner would be exempt from income tax on lease rental income to up various exemption limits. The lease term and the maximum tax exemption limits are as follows: • 5 to 7 year lease: up to €18,000 rental income per year; • 7 to 10 year lease: up to €22,500 rental income per year; • 10 to 15 year lease: up to €30,000 rental income per year; • 15 year plus lease: up to €40,000 rental income per year.

The rental income eligible can include income from both land and agricultural entitlements. The lease must be in writing and stamped by Revenue Commissioners in order for the Lessor to avail of the enhanced income tax incentives.

The tax reliefs do not apply to leases to a spouse/ son/daughter/sibling but are applicable on leases to a niece or nephew. The rental income up to each threshold is income tax exempt but the universal social charge (USC) and PRSI still applied on this lease income. Leases for five years or longer will now be exempt from stamp duty.

A Department of Agriculture Private Contract Clause should also be entered into between the Lessor and Lessee to arrange for the transfer of agricultural entitlements under the Basic Payments Scheme to the Lessee. Said Private Contract Clause should also facilitate the transfer of entitlements back to the Lessor after the lease has finished.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

‘Duck now! I think the paparazzi have spotted me…’

So, my great friend…Lockdown 5, Level 3, how’s that going for you?

Eh…you’ve got that wrong.

NO! You ARE my great friend…

Not THAT! It’s Lockdown 3, Level 5…

Oh, sorry. Well, HOW IS IT? Ah…just the usual.

The rather unpleasant ‘new normal’?

CYCLING ACCIDENT Yep. A few walks?

Yes, at least the weather has settled a bit.

If you were involved in a cycling Watching lots of TV? accident contact Both: ‘Absolutely nothing on…’

Byrne Carolan I take it…you’re watching lots of TV? Cunningham Solicitors Ah, a bit. Did you see that programme where four so-called funny guys sit around talking absolute rubbish?

The Week in Politics?

NO! Some new show. It’s called Clear History…

Oh we recorded it, but then I deleted it.

Rubbish.

Thank God for the soccer…

True. Quite a title race in England!

Yep….but a sad week for Frank Lampard…

He’ll be going on the PUP this week.

Yep…sacked by Chelsea, from his 5 million pounds a year job.

Some money!

Some money!

5 million quid a year. Was he really worth ten Ray D’Arcys?

No comment!

(They pause, wondering if Ray D’Arcy could manage Chelsea, with Joe Duffy handing over to Frank Lampard after the news headlines at 3…)

Strange experience on Sunday.

Huh?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to facilitate the well established practise in this column) Snow in Roscommon. Beautiful. I went for a walk in the park.

What was strange?

There was a man with a long beard.

Fair enough…

Not really, it was quite black. A black beard. Wasn’t fair at all.

Go on…

He had a camera, I was sure he’d recognised me.

Recognised you?

Yeah, from this column. This page.

I thought ‘It’s the paparazzi’.

PAPARAZZI? YOU? ROSCOMMON? Yeah…why not?

Go on…

I was standing in front of the pond, just in front of a couple of ducks. Next thing, the guy with the long beard is moving

The snow. Yes, the snow… it delighted local children, and quite a few adults too.

Any respite from Covid just now…

What we didn’t like…

The row between pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca and the EU over supply of Covid-19 vaccines is very worrying – and threatens to cost lives.

What PEOPLE are talking about…

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

SOLICITORS

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

These are sombre days…

I know, I know.

Hospital admissions rising. People suffering. Businesses crippled.

It’s gloom all around…

Joy is sparse.

I actually think that’s why the snow was a lift for people!

Yeah, simple pleasures just now…

We need to stay at home as much as possible.

That’s what Roman Abramovich said to Frank Lampard! Stay home…with immediate effect!

Ha ha! Anyways, let’s stay safe. See you here – in print – next week.

Yep! Well, as long as that wasn’t a photographer for the paper…and we’re not being replaced by ducks/a wildlife column!

What we liked…

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

in, with his camera, doing all the shapes, very professional…

And? It seemed obvious that he’d recognised me. I could visualise the snaps appearing in a newspaper or on a social media channel. ‘Barstool boyo parks pub, gets down with the ducks’…

How could he recognise you? We’re depicted in the Roscommon People as cartoonlike characters!

Yeah, I know…but my wife says the resemblance is uncanny.

Anyways, what happened?

Well, I discreetly moved to one side…

And? He kept filming. In fairness, it was the ducks he was interested in.

Ah, fame! Such a fleeting thing!

PIC OF THE WEEK! Elijus, Domantas and Evanas pictured having a snowball fight. Picture: Mick McCormack

The delay in delivery of Covid-19 vaccines; no surprises as Level 5 restrictions to continue; ongoing Covidrelated issues, including the absence of a sufficiently productive joint approach between Northern Ireland and the Republic; Ciaran Mullooly’s Nationwide focus on the Bord na Mona era in the Midlands went down well with viewers; the snow; an FA Cup thriller between Manchester United and Liverpool…

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Covid cases remain stable as lockdown extended < DAN DOONER

Less than five new cases of Covid-19 were announced in Co. Roscommon yesterday (Wednesday), the third day in a row where fewer than five had been confirmed.

The latest figures come following confirmation that the current lockdown restrictions will be extended until March 5th at the earliest with further restrictions on travel.

There were 217 cases confirmed in the county in the fourteen days leading up to

midnight on Tuesday, which means the county’s incidence rate of Covid-19 is 336.2, the second-lowest in the country after Leitrim.

Roscommon’s five day moving average of six new cases per day is also cause for optimism.

Nationally, there were 1,335 new cases of Covid-19 and, sadly, 54 deaths, with 50 of those occurring in January.

The median age of those who died is 85 and there have now been a total of 3,120 Covidrelated deaths in Ireland.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tony Holohan, said: “The current 14-day incidence remains more than double the peak incidence experienced during previous Level 5 measures in October.

“Therefore, now is not the time to drop your guard and start to interact with people outside your household. The risk of transmission in the community remains very high. We must continue to work towards reducing incidence of disease and preventing further hospitalisations and deaths”.

CSO: 13 Covid deaths in six weeks According to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office, County Roscommon saw a significant increase in the number of Covidrelated deaths between December 12th 2020 and Friday, January 15th.

The figures, which were released last Friday (January 22nd), show that there were a total of 31 deaths up to and including January 15th, an increase of 18 since Friday, December 11th 2020. The median age of those who have

Twenty-one-monthold Molly Dean from Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, pictured enjoying her first snowfall on Sunday afternoon.

Photograph: Mick McCormack.

passed away is 89.

There were also 1,846 confirmed cases of Covid-19 up to January 15th and the median age of those positive cases was 39.

Nationally, there were 2,536 deaths from Covid up to January 15th of which, 2,183 were aged 65 and over.

There were also a total of 175,082 confirmed cases of the disease up to that point, of which more than 105,000 were aged 44 and younger.

449 Covid tests last week in Roscommon < DAN DOONER

HSE Healthcare West has confirmed this week that the 14-day incidence rate of Covid-19 has sta-

bilised across Roscommon, and that 449 Covid-19 tests were carried out in the county last week.

Dr. Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health with HSE West, once again urged people to stay home and stay safe.

“Notwithstanding this welcome stabilisation, this represents a continued significant level of infection in our communities. Each time we leave our home and garden, we are potentially going to be exposed

to the risk of infection.

“We must continually keep two metres from one another, wear a mask and clean our hands. It is best to stay home and work from home’ if at all possible.

“Also, if you do have symptoms, self-Isolate and stay in your room. Transmission within households is very high and this can be prevented if we strictly adhere to the self-isolation guidelines,” Dr. Smyth said.

From Monday, January 18th to Sunday, January 24th inclusive, HSE Community Healthcare West confirmed that there were 449 tests carried out in Roscommon, 1,702 in Mayo and 2,594 in Galway.

Ballyleague N.S. BALLYLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 043 3321906

Enrolment 2021/2022

Application Form for Admission for 2021/2022 academic year is available as follows: To download at: www.ballyleaguens.com Request by email: ballyleaguens@gmail.com By writing to: Ballyleague N.S. Ballyleague, Roscommon, N39 PX49

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

‘Passing Bay’ for Clashaganny blackspot

Sean, Elaine and Fia Slamen, Ballintubber, pictured out on a walk with Zoe the dog in The Demesne, Castlerea, on Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack

Cllr. Marty McDermott says he is “very confident” that challenges posed for motorists using a stretch of road in the Clashaganny area will now be addressed.

Cllr. McDermott said that the narrow road in the Cloonyogan townland – across from Devine’s Pub and beside Burke’s garage – has been problematic for many years.

Locals and other motorists have been frustrated for years as this narrow road – which leads to the main Strokestown road – makes it very difficult when vehicles meet.

Now, on foot of Cllr. McDermott’s lobbying with the Council, a Passing Bay is to be put in place. Funding for same is expected to be confirmed in the near future.

Cllr. McDermott paid tribute to local community activist Bernie Kearney, who he said has been raising this issue for many years.

“Bernie has been advocating for action on this for years. It’s beem a serious source of concern for residents. I am very grateful to Bernie for bringing it to my attention.

“An archaeological inspection was conducted and it has emerged that the works being planned can proceed. I’m delighted.

This Passing Bay will be much appreciated by local residents”.

Cllr. McDermott thanked the relevant engineer and Roscommon County Council for their cooperation.

Meanwhile, Cllr. McDermott also welcomed confirmation by Roscommon County Council that it intends to proceed with resurfacing works at Lisadurn Bridge (Golf Links Road, Roscommon).

“I had sought signage, but the Council now hopes to do a more thorough job. It’s been a big concern. I’m hopeful this project will be included in the 2021 works’ schedule”.

Murphy: Holidaymakers ‘committing treachery!’ < DAN DOONER

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has accused those flying out of Ireland for non-essential reasons of committing acts of ‘treachery’ against their fellow citizens, particularly those working in the healthcare sector.

Speaking in the Seanad on Tuesday, Senator Murphy made an impas-

sioned plea to those planning on taking holidays abroad during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said: “Why in the name of God when we have a 5km limit of travel do we have flights coming in from the Canary Islands? These are Irish people, they are not people from the Canaries coming to holiday in Ireland!

They are Irish people, some who will

ask me when they can get the vaccine, and at the same time we have nurses, doctors, helpers – some of them doing double shifts in hospitals – holding the hands of relations and friends dying from Covid-19.

“I stress again that it’s a minority but it is treachery by some of our fellow citizens. It doesn’t matter what any politician, health expert or govern-

ment does if people don’t follow what we are being asked to by medical experts.

Senator Murphy concluded: “We might not like to admit it but Dr. Tony Holohan and the medical experts have been right 99% of the time. Again, I would appeal to the small minority who are at this to please, I beg of you, stop doing this”.

St. Mary’s NS KNOCKCROGHERY Tel. 090 66 61963

St. Mary’s N.S. Knockcroghery invites you to apply for enrolment for September 2021 Please email the school from the 1st of February expressing interest and the school will post you the relevant forms.

St. Mary’s National School Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Tel: (090) 6661963 Email: stmarysnsknockcroghery@gmail.com Website:knockcrogheryns.scoilnet.ie/blog/

Facilities include: Breakfast Club, Afterschool in GP Hall, Astro Pitch, Ballpool, Sensory Garden, Sensory Room, Occupational Therapy Room, Playground, New Basketball Court.

Principal - Mark Creavin

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Kerrane reports illegal dumping Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has reported illegal dumping at the River Suck Callows, a special area of conservation in Ballinasloe to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, who are responsible for these protected areas.

Deputy Kerrane said: “I first reported illegal dumping, which has become a regular occurrence in this area, to the NPWS last September. They carried out an inspection and identified ‘fly tipped household and other waste’. They then reported the matter to the Environment Section of Galway County Council.

“Any such prosecution is under the remit of the Environment Section and I will be following up on this. This comes as further illegal dumping was brought to my attention in Ballinasloe over the weekend.

“It is very clear that the current deterrents to illegal dumping are not working. The fine of €150 is inadequate, especially when one considers how much households are paying annually for waste collection.

“There is also an issue with the use of CCTV – a solution many turn to, however, one that is being affected by GDPR, meaning that most CCTV cameras are actually useless, even in cases where you can easily identify the perpetrator.

“We need to see greater resources for local authorities, with adequate numbers of Litter Wardens on the ground. The fines need to be reviewed.

“Ultimately, I believe the best solution here is to bring waste collection back under the control of our local authorities. We privatise far too much in this State and much of that privati-

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane.

sation does not serve the people well. Bringing waste collection back under the local authority would mean easily identifying those who are not paying for waste collection; they can get a knock on the door and be asked how they are disposing of their waste. Private providers won’t and can’t do this. Local authorities can”.

Glanduff National School

Now accepting enrolments for September 2021 Enrolment form available on the website or by contacting the school.

TELEPHONE: 090 64 89317

Email: glanduffnsroscommon@gmail.com Twitter: @glanduffns Website: www.glanduffns.ie

St. Comán’s Wood Primary School Where boys and girls Junior Infants – Sixth Class,

LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH and LEARN together

Trish, Emily and Alfie Rush pictured with their masked snowmen in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

Cycleway consultation open until March 1st Five potential route corridor options for the new Galway to Athlone Cycleway project are now available for viewing. The second phase of public consultation for the cycleway is underway until 1st March.

The Galway to Athlone Cycleway project will complete a 270km car-free corridor connecting Galway and Dublin.

The project is being delivered by the Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath local authorities in partnership with Trans-

port Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport.

Consultants RPS from Galway were appointed in 2020 to work with the project team in designing the new cycleway.

All information on the project, including maps of the proposed route corridor options, are available to view in the online virtual consultation room at www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com. Members of the public may leave feedback or arrange telephone or

online consultations with the project team by contacting 091509267 or info@galwaytoathlonecycleway.com.

Project Coordinator, Michael Kelly, commented: “We welcome everyone’s feedback on the corridor options. We are committed to working with landowners to deliver a first class cycleway for the Galway and Roscommon region”.

The project team expects to recommend a preferred route corridor later this year.

Registration for September 2021

CLOSING DATE 10th February 2021

Download our application form on www.comanswoodprimary.ie or Look for a paper copy of the application form from pmorris@comanswoodprimary.ie and email it to info@comanswoodprimary.ie or post it to St. Comán’s Wood Primary School Convent Rd., Roscommon.

Principal: Dr. Úna Feeley, B.Ed, M.St., EdD.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Recently…

As positive as her outlook was, I was taken by what the actress said when broadcaster Andrea Gilligan asked her what she misses.

Many of us will identify with the woman’s response. She misses casual social interaction…being able to have a coffee with a friend, or on her own.

When speaking about having a coffee on her own, she memorably summed up what we are missing: “Even a coffee on my own…listening to other people talking. I miss the sound of other people”.

I was shocked to hear of the untimely death of Irish Olympian Jerry Kiernan, who had one of the greatest characteristics a person can have…in that he was truly his own man and famously spoke his mind.

He was undoubtedly an accomplished athlete, and by all accounts a magnificent and memorable teacher, but many of us knew him best as a fascinating, deeply intelligent and articulate ‘pundit’ with RTE. I always enjoyed listening to his forensic analysis before and after races. As a pundit, Jerry was (as Jimmy Magee said of Maradona) ‘different class’. His sincerity, passion, knowledge and eloquence commanded the attention of viewers. He had no interest in showboating, or in fabricating controversy or entertainment. A true oneoff, whom we will miss.

Later on Tuesday

Sunday At least our politicians are keeping us amused…

Here’s my Guide to Irish Politics (Part 1): In a recent Sunday Independent interview, Barry Cowen (sacked as Minister for Agriculture by Micheál Martin) said the Taoiseach should not lead Fianna Fáil into the next General Election.

In today’s Sunday Independent, the previously Rarely-spotted-in-the-media Charlie McConalogue (appointed as Minister for Agriculture by Micheál Martin) said the Taoiseach should absolutely lead Fianna Fáil into the next General Election. I can’t imagine what might help explain the divergent views of our two heroes!

Meanwhile, the shy Deputy Cowen hasn’t stopped at giving some tactically astute newspaper interviews – he’s also taken to putting lamely cryptic posts on Twitter, including one of a dog being walked, captioned: ‘It’s a long road that has no turns’.

In one of those print interviews, he compared his own political plight to the experience of Muhammad Ali: “Muhammad Ali was on his backside a few times and got up and became world champion three times – I have to adopt that attitude”.

You couldn’t make this stuff up…!

Monday Laurence Fallon, Cathaoirleach of

A spin in Ballaghaderreen (within 5 km limit!): Aaron Dean pictured at the wheel with his sister Molly. Picture: Mick McCormack

Roscommon County Council, was a worried man when I spoke to him today about the heartbreaking flooding crisis in Rahara.

At that point, one household had already been evacuated – and others were (and remain) under threat. The Lough Funshinagh flooding disaster really is devastating.

As Cllr. Fallon spoke, a sense of desperation was evident. The water levels keep rising.

It is still only January. Last year, the water rose by four foot from January to April. The starkness of that bodes very, very badly for the coming weeks.

“One farm has been consumed already” Cllr.

Fallon said, grimly adding “one more foot of water, and two more houses will be gone”.

We sent Dan Dooner and Mick McCormack to the scene on Wednesday, where they spoke with locals. Our special report is across pages 15-17.

Monday night I found Ian Paisley Junior quite annoying on Claire Byrne Live! I thought relations had improved between the Republic of Ireland and ‘Team Paisley’, but it’s obvious that Covid-19 and Brexit are bringing tensions back to the surface.

Whatever about what I thought, Roscommon’s most illustrious resident – former President of Ireland Mary McAleese – didn’t hold back during a recent interview in the Sunday Independent.

Mary, who is rarely out of the papers/ radio/TV these days, had this to say when commenting on Donald Trump: “…you get a stirrer upper, like Trump, someone who is able to manipulate, for example, the Christian gospel. We had that in (Dr. Ian) Paisley. Someone who talks the gospel, but is actually a spewer, a contaminator of the world with hatred”.

I’m not entirely sure these are wise words from Mrs. McAleese at this time.

Tuesday On Newstalk, an out-of-work actress rang in to merrily chat about getting through lockdown. It should be said that almost everyone in the arts is out of work just now.

This lady has been innovative…and has gone way beyond mere banana bread levels of distraction. She’s learnt to play a musical instrument, studied algebra, binge-watched on Netflix, taken on several scenic walks, and pursued various other new hobbies.

I’m grateful (for all that my gratefulness and his endeavours are worth) to the concerned citizen who rang Joe Duffy today to report The Case of the Missing Radio Stations.

A couple of years ago, I was intrigued to discover that the Sky menu on our TV actually included a few dozen radio channels.

In addition to RTE, Newstalk, etc. there were great UK-based music channels such as ‘Gold’, ‘Heart’, ‘Smooth’ etc.

We often whiled an hour or more away listening to classic hits from the past.

A week or two ago, I discovered they were gone! I was disappointed, confused even, but it went out of my head.

Then, today on Liveline, a man rang in about this important issue of our times.

He was on the case. He too had noticed the radio stations had fallen from the Sky. He rang Sky. A lady answered. He informed her of the problem, but she was unable to offer any explanation. After she made internal enquiries, the lady reported back. Er…Brexit – yes, Brexit! – was the reason for the lamentable removal (for subscribers in Ireland) of the UK radio stations.

The man then informed the lady that the withdrawn radio stations accounted for nine percent of all the stations in his Sky package (for which he pays a hefty €200 or so a month). Therefore, he expected a nine percent discount.

The lady from Sky (who may be in line for a career in politics) calmly informed him that he hadn’t been paying for the radio stations! The man asked how was he to know what stations he was paying for. He got no joy. And so it seems Brexit has taken the hits of the past from our TVs!

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

‘Skills to Advance’ online upskilling Roscommon Heraldduring lockdown

newsbriefs Text

Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB) have launched a number of highly-funded business courses, which are available online to employers and employees to help upskill staff and provide relevant and valuable skills for today’s workplace.

Under the Governmentfunded Skills to Advance initiative, employers can avail of this funded train-

leading through change.

SKILLS TO ADVANCE Providing supervisory staff with valuable people management skills like motivation, performance management and underONLINE COURSE standing the management Leading Through Change role, can both enhance your business and improve performance metCERTIFICATE IN LEADERSHIP rics.

GRETB also have onRep Contact Details: Order No.: 836743 & MANAGEMENT line programmes in cusLevel 6 (National Framework of Qualifications) tomer service industry, Alaninbeirne Copyline: business FUNDED TRAINING THROUGH THE SKILLS TO ADVANCE SCHEME and training and development, which are also 090-(subject 6627377 Date: 30/11/2020 |M Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB) are delivering a new Leadership & Management highly funded to training initiative for employers who wish to upskill their employees. This highly subsidised programme aims to eligibility criteria). These upskill either those in/or aspiring to be in a supervisory role to maximise a company’s ability to deal with the online alan.beirne@roscommonherald.com programmes are business environment, its challenges and opportunities. designed to provide acTwo programme options are available where managing employees who are either cessible training solutions working remotely OR workplace based.

Customer Correction Proof Customer Name: S DOYLE & SONS

their organisation, whether it’s to improve their Breege Hester and Marie Hester pictured out on a walk employees skills level, in The Demesne, Castlerea on Sunday. Picture: Mick 2060848 respond to the changing McCormack nature of business or help Modules include: them take advantage of busy working lives. emerging opportunities – GRETB strongly en• Understanding the Management Role to Improve Management Performance, as remote working. courages employers • Motivating People in the Workplace, Start Date: 02/02/2021such Upskilling staff is central within Galway and Ro• Managing and Implementing Change in the Workplace, Either to delivering long-term scommon to get in conOption 1: Managing Remote Workers End Date: 23/02/2021 sustainable growth and tact and take advantage Option 2: Managing Stress and Conflict in the Organisation also coping and adapting of this great opportunity Additional modules and progression No.hasof Inserts: to the rapid change we to upskill staff at this critiSenator Aisling Dolan welcomed funding of 4 opportunities are also available. have experienced in the cal time. Further details €145,550 for Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT). It Employers can obtain further details through past year. are available at skillcomes as Minister for Further and Higher Education, GRETB Skills To Advance Co-ordinator, GRETB are offering stoadvance.ie or contact Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD Amanda.percy@gretb.ie or call 086 0655141 an online programme the Skills To Advance announced €5.4 million for 23 Higher Education in Leadership and Man- Coordinator by emailing Institutes (HEIs) under the Funding Students with agement, which puts amanda.percy@gretb.ie, Disability Fund.

Edition: Class: Colour: particular emphasis on or phoning 086 0655141.

The funding at AIT will provide for a range of measures to include the provision of a UDL Symposium, learning support and AT training for students, targeted ASD Roscommon Herald Home,Interiors,DIY 4C (CMYK) and mental health supports, and the upgrading and purchasing of shared software and computing facilities.

Senator Aisling Dolan said: “Students with disabilities can use technological supports such as assistive technology, for example mobility aids and hearing ONLINE COURSE aids, to ensure they can take also part in the college Leading Through Change experience. Simply making a campus more accessible Leading Through Change for people with mobility challenges, and incorporating universal design learning (UDL) makes curriculums more inclusive and provides flexible learning and assessment options for those with disabilities”.

The Fine Gael Senator said the funding would be hugely beneficial to students with disabilities. “At AIT, the focus will be on learning supports and assistive technology training for students, as well as investment in UDL and targeted autism and mental health 6 (National Framework of Qualifications) Level 6Level (National Framework of Qualifications) supports. This fund also supports sensory hubs across nine of our national colleges to support autistic people”.

FUNDED TRAINING THE SKILLS TO ADVANCE SCHEME FUNDED TRAINING THROUGH THETHROUGH SKILLS TO ADVANCE SCHEME The Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD) aims to support students with a range of conditions and disabilities, including sensory disabilities, physical Galway and Roscommon Education andEducation Training Board delivering a new Galway and Roscommon and (GRETB) Trainingare Board (GRETB) areLeadership delivering&aManagement new Leadership & Management disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, training initiative forinitiative employersfor who wish to upskill This highly subsidised aims to programme aims to significant ongoing illness and specific learning training employers who their wishemployees. to upskill their employees.

Thisprogramme highly subsidised upskill either those in/or aspiring to be in a supervisory role to maximise a company’s ability to deal with the difficulties such as dyslexia. upskill either those in/or aspiring to be in a supervisory role to maximise a company’s ability to deal with the business environment, its challenges and opportunities. business environment, its challenges and opportunities.

Customer No:

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Enrolment at Cloonfour National School

Two programme options are available where managing employees who are either Two programme options are available where managing employees who are either working remotely OR workplace based.

Cloonfour National School is opening its enrolment for September 2021 for all class levels.

For further information please visit www.cloonfourns. weebly.com or find us on Facebook. Should you request an enrolment form or would like to speak with the – Mon principal, please contact Ciara Kearney on 071-9638177 or email cloonfourns@hotmail.com.

• Motivating People in the Workplace, • Understanding the Management Role to Improve Management Performance,

working remotely OR workplace based.

Modules include:

Modules include:

• Understanding the Management Role to Improve Management Performance, • Managing Implementing Change the Workplace, • and Motivating People in theinWorkplace, Either Managing and Implementing Change in the Workplace, Option 1: •Managing Remote Workers Option 2: Managing StressEither and Conflict in the Organisation

Wed : 10am to 4pm. | Thursday : 10am to 5pm | Friday : 10am to 6.30pm Option 1: Managing Remote Workers OPEN THROUGH LUNCH 094 - 962 0910 Option and 2: Managing Stress and Conflict|in Phone: the Organisation Additional modules progression opportunities are also available.

Additional modules and progression Employers can obtain further details through

08

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Roscommon down to 20th in IBAL rankings < DAN DOONER

The final litter survey of 2020 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), which took place in December, shows Roscommon failing to attain clean status, falling to 20th place in the ranking of 37 towns and cities. Kilkenny retained top spot, ahead of Killarney and Ennis.

According to An Taisce’s report, two litter blackspots, the bottle bank at Tesco and a laneway off Main Street (leading down to Matrix Gym and Boyle Sports) contributed to Roscommon town losing its clean status.

The report said that the recycling facility, which had been highlighted on numerous occasions before, was “particularly poor” this time around.

Reacting to the report, Chairperson of Roscommon Tidy Towns Association, Cllr.

Kathleen Shanagher, called on members of the public to play their part in keeping the town clean.

“It is the same areas that are letting us down all the time.

Roscommon County Council are getting the bottle banks at Tesco emptied as often as

possible but it’s down to people dumping rubbish there. If the banks are full I would ask people to take bottles and other items away and return again at a later date. Leaving bottles there on the ground or in boxes is dumping,” she said.

Cllr. Shanagher said the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions have had an impact, however.

“Roscommon County Council staff are restricted and I’m not going to be telling members of the Tidy Towns to go out when we’re supposed to staying at home. The Tús workers aren’t working either and many local business people aren’t going into their businesses and therefore can’t clean up outside or keep an eye out for litter.

“I would encourage members of the public to report any incidents of dumping to me or online at www.roscommoncoco. ie so that we can keep the town as clean as possible,” she said.

Cllr. Shanagher added that while the recent survey was disappointing overall, there was some positive news regarding two areas in the town.

“Both Hawthorn Drive and Loughnaneane Park received ‘A’ ratings. The local residents at Hawthorn Drive deserve

great praise for the work they do in keeping that area tidy.

“Our local Tidy Towns group will take the report on board and work closely with Roscommon County Council as we plan ahead for the National Tidy Towns competition this summer. We are already looking forward to getting back out there and completing a number of projects this year,” she concluded.

Overall, litter levels have risen in 24 of the 37 towns and cities inspected by An Taisce, resulting in only 17 being judged to be clean – a fall of over 25% on last summer and in sharp contrast to just three years ago, when 80% were clean.

IBAL spokesperson Conor Horgan, said: “Covid is clearly a factor here, but we should never accept litter as inevitable.

It comes down to people disposing of their waste without regard for their surroundings or their fellow citizens and it is entirely unnecessary”.

The survey saw a marked increase in PPE litter – primarily facemasks – and also suggested reluctance among usually civic-minded people to pick up litter during the Covid-19 pandemic.

44 vacant homes brought back into use in Roscommon

< DAN DOONER

Roscommon County Council refurbished and re-let 44 vacant homes in the county as part of the Voids Stimulus Programme last year, which saw 3,607 vacant social houses across the country brought back into use.

The news was announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, who thanked the local authority for their efforts in 2020.

Minister O’Brien said: “There was also an added economic benefit with further employment generated for local Roscommon builders, carpenters, painters, plumbers, electricians and so on”.

Independent TD Denis Naughten said €379,500 was received from the Department of Housing last year.

“Credit is due to the team in Roscommon

County Council which secured an allocation of funding well in excess of the proportion of local authority housing in the county, which will mean more houses can be refurbished.

“As part of my campaign to bring life back into more vacant houses, I’m hoping this year will see changes to the Fair Deal Nursing Home Support Scheme, which currently penalises older people who wish to rent out their vacant home,” he said.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy welcomed the news, adding that a further 61 units had been brought back into use in Co. Galway.

“This will greatly address a shortage of homes for people on the housing list in counties Roscommon and Galway,” he said before claiming it was a return to the “core values” of his party in offering local authority houses to local people.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Stephen Donnelly has just told Claire Byrne the Government would not seal the border for “important political reasons”. Jesus! People are dying from a pandemic!

Adam Bienkov @AdamBienkov

Alan Kinsella @electionlit

“We are not a papers-carrying country,” says Matt Hancock, whose government has made it illegal for lorry drivers to enter Kent without a permit. #marr

RTE broadcasting live from Dublin Airport arrivals each evening would have a bigger impact on travel than the government’s policy to date.

– There’s never a dull moment with smooth old Matt

– The Health Minister was trending, and it wasn’t particularly positive

Seamus Duke @SeamusDuke

Muireann O’Connell @MuireannO_C

In today’s Indo – 50 footballers who were unlucky not to have won an All Star. Frankie Dolan not mentioned.....

MAJOR omission. @IndoSport #rosgaa

Assume a large part of everyone’s lockdown exercise regime is walking to the heating to turn it off and on so you hit that sweet spot of not freezing/passing out with anxiety at the thoughts of the bill.

– Bills, bills, bills…we’re all feeling the heat Barry McGonigle @BarryMcGonigle_ Tom Brady continuing the great season for Cavan by getting Tampa to the #SuperBowl. H’on the Breffni!!!

– Something to do with ‘American football’…(we’re working on it)

– Seamus Duke spots a Frankie Dolansized omission New Year, New Mam @TheresaNewIdea Sweet suffering Jesus – all the Irish people coming back from lanzarote last night on @RTE_PrimeTime and not wanting to be interviewed or identified – hmm – and strolling on out the doors of Dublin airport, unimpeded ...I despair – Tensions are running high

– Alan sees the wisdom of RTE approach…

Robert Burke @robertburke84 Is it true RTÉ sent cameras to Dublin airport to shame Irish people flying home from Lanzarote? The same people who threw a retirement party while people weren’t allowed attend their friends funerals or open their business and nobody lost their jobs over it. They’ve some neck.

Matt Hancock

– Hold on, not everyone agrees Susan Smyth @SusanSmythSL I have to say the snow was such a beautiful distraction this weekend, nature never fails to provide beauty, awe and joy. #nature – That’s more like it; Susan calms everyone down and reminds us of the beauty of nature

Tom Brady

09

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Roscommon County Council funding for artists 2021 Roscommon County Council, together with the Arts Council of Ireland, is pleased to announce increased funding for artists in 2021 under the annual Artist Bursary Programme. This includes the opportunity to apply for the much-coveted Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Bursary. Professional artists either currently living in the county or who were born here, are eligible to apply.

“This programme is designed to further the development of professional practitioners in all art forms, for any purpose that will demonstratively contribute to the artist’s development” Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer, told us. “We understand that funding to artists is especially critical in the current climate and we are looking for quality applications which will benefit the artists and in turn the cultural life of County Roscommon”.

The Artist Bursary Awards provide financial support to professional artists to allow them to develop their practice. The award can be used towards the costs of attending courses, mentoring, developing new work, investment in equipment, participation in exhibitions and various other activities. Applications are assessed by an external expert and awards made on their recommendation.

The Award also includes the Tyrone Guthrie Centre Residency Award which provides opportunities for artists to spend a period of time at the world-renowned artists’ retreat in Annaghmakerrig, County Monaghan. The residential workplace for artists is dedicated to supporting and facilitating creativity within a home-like environment. Here artists can find peace, quiet and facilities to develop their work, together with the stimulation of living alongside other

artists from all disciplines.

Applications can only be accepted via Roscommon County Council’s My Online Services. You can watch a short video on how to register for My Online Services here: http:// www.roscommoncoco.ie/!62BO41 Once you have registered, you will find the application form under ‘A-Z Services’. The closing date for submissions is 26th February 2021 at 5 pm. Enquiries can also be sent via email to: bursaries@roscommoncoco.ie or Contact Áine on (09066) 37271 The Artist Bursary Programme is the first of the 2021 announcements, with the Roscommon New Writing and Chapbook awards also to be announced later this spring, in addition to a number of artist commissions, as part of Roscommon County Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting artists.

ARTIST BURSARY PROGRAMME 2021 Roscommon County Council Arts Office is now accepting online applications from practising artists working in all genres for an Artist Bursary 2021. Applicants must be living in or from County Roscommon.

This programme is designed to further the development of professional practitioners in all art forms, for any purpose that will demonstratively contribute to the artist’s development.

Full details of the programme are available at: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/community/arts-office/grants-andbursaries.html Applications can only be made via My Online Services on the Roscommon County Council Website or click https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com/ to register as a user. Here you will find the online application form and the facility to upload supporting documentation.

All enquiries may be made to bursaries@roscommoncoco.ie The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5pm, 26th February 2021.

Late applications will not be considered.

Face-to-face hospital clinics curtailed In early January, all but very urgent and time critical day surgery was curtailed in Roscommon University Hospital. In light of very high community infection rates, it is now necessary to continue the current restrictions to ensure patient safety and wellbeing. The deferrals are in place for a further two-week period, and will be kept under review.

Outpatient clinics will also be restricted, with the

majority of appointments taking place virtually unless it is absolutely necessary for patients to be seen.

Endoscopy services at the hospital will continue as scheduled, and patients should attend their appointments unless they have any symptoms of Covid-19 or are close contacts of people with Covid-19.

Commenting, Mary Garvey, Hospital Manager at RUH said: “We understand that these deferrals

may be disappointing and frustrating for patients, but this is an important measure to enable us to maintain critical services. Patients will be notified directly if their appointment is being deferred. We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause. Please bear with us as we all hold firm”.

Visiting restrictions remain in place at the hospital. Members of the public should not visit the hospital, except on compas-

sionate grounds, and these visits must be arranged in advance with the nurse manager on the ward.

The Injury Unit remains open from 8 am to 8 pm, 365 days per year, to treat a range of injuries in adults and children over the age of five, that are non-life or non-limb threatening. The Unit is located within the Urgent Care Centre at the hospital and is staffed by Doctors, Advanced Nurse Practitioners and Nurses.

Rhona McGrath, Arts Officer Roscommon County Council

NOTICE OF RATES HAVING BEEN MADE COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT OF ROSCOMMON Notice is hereby given that the County Rates have been made on the property thereto on the above named County Health District.

The Annual Rate on Valuation of the ordinary expenditure of the County Council for the service of the financial year ending 31st December 2021 is 225 cent.

The Rate Books are now in my custody and may be inspected by any person affected thereby, at the Offices Áras an Chontae Roscommon County Council between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. (By appointment only) exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. The said rates will be payable from and after publication of this notice.

The above rates were made on the 26th January, 2021.

Dated this 26th January 2021 Martin Lydon Director of Services - Housing, ICT (Incl. Digital Transformation), Planning, Head of Finance and Roscommon MD Area Manager.

Florence, Sadie and Carol Davis pictured going out for a walk with Robin the dog in The Demesne, Castlerea, on Sunday.

Picture: Mick McCormack

10

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

The

D News page

G

‘Purr-fect’ ending as Millie found safe and well! < DAN DOONER

A Waterford cat, missing in Roscommon town since just before Christmas, was reunited with her family last Thursday night following an appeal from both the Roscommon SPCA and the Roscommon People.

‘Millie’ had jumped from a car at the Centre Point Retail Park on the Circular Road on December 21st after her owners had stopped on their way back to Tramore after visiting

family in Ballina.

Husband and wife, Paul Power and Amy Lanigan, spent hours searching for their beloved pet on the 21st but to no avail. Paul even returned alone just before New Year’s Eve and spent three nights sleeping in his car as he continued the search.

Thankfully, this story has a happy ending, however, as Millie found her way to a house on Lanesboro Street where she was picked up by Roscommon

SPCA and reunited with her relieved family.

Paul said he and Amy are both extremely grateful to the people of Roscommon for their help in bringing Millie home.

“Last Thursday night, exactly one month on from when Millie went missing, was one of the best nights in a long time.

I came home from work to be greeted by my wife, Amy, crying and telling me that Millie had been found and trapped in a garden in Roscommon

town. We went straight up to Roscommon on the Friday to bring her home!

“We were so happy to see her again. She was a little bit the worse for wear because she had been on her own for so long but we are giving her plenty of TLC and she’s been spoilt since she came home.

“We are over the moon and so grateful to Roscommon SPCA and the people of Roscommon for all their help and support,” he said.

Roscommon County Youth Theatre workshops are back for 2021!

Roscommon County Youth Theatre’s 2021 term commences on Saturday, January 30th, online via Zoom – and we have lots in store!

We have now opened up a workshop especially for 1112 years. This class is suitable for children anywhere in the county who may or may not have any drama experience and would like to give it a go. You can expect fun, laughter, games, to make new friends, lots of special guests and tons of opportunities to play and perform.

Weekly workshops for 13-20 years are also starting back the same day. New members welcome for both.

Just to give you a flavour of what to expect, there will be Musical Theatre Workshops with highly accomplished musical directors and choreographers, Introduction to Screen Auditions and Commercial Casting by veterans with thirty-plus years’ experience. We will be looking at role-play, improvisation, physical theatre, voice work, creative writing, film and

lots more.

We will have another ‘In Conversation with ….’ series. We have some very special guests organised for you who you will not want to miss!

You can expect this and lots, lots more, so don’t miss out.

Get in touch now to reserve you place! Limited places available.

For bookings, contact Catherine on 086 874 7024 or email roscommoncoyt.com.

Workshops take place on Saturdays, from January

30th to May 29th. The workshop for ages 11/12 will take place from 10-11 am, and the workshop for ages 13-20 will take place from 11.15-12.45 pm. The fee for the term is €100.

Roscommon County Youth Theatre is supported by Roscommon Arts Office and is funded by Roscommon County Council and the Arts Council/ An Chomhairle Ealaíon and Creative Ireland. Roscommon County Youth Theatre is a member of Youth Theatre Ireland.

Readers identify a Rambler A big thank you to Marian Hanly and Michael O’Donnell who have identified the banjo player in our picture of The Ramblers showband which was taken at some time in the 1970s.

Michael wrote: ‘The banjo player on the far right is my uncle, Paddy O’Donnell from Fourmilehouse (the late Joe O’Donnell’s

father), a former County Councillor from Grange, Fourmilehouse’.

We have now identified two of the members, banjo player Paddy, and saxophone player, Seamus Scott.

If you can name any of the other members of the band, please contact us at news@roscommonpeople.ie.

Pictured are Leon King and Fionnain Gavigan after making a snowman on the Racecourse Road in Roscommon town last weekend.

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

11

‘Have a heart…light up Lecarrow Harbour!’ < DAN DOONER

Boat owners and residents in the Lecarrow area are calling on Waterways Ireland to ‘have a heart’ and switch the power points back on at the local harbour during the cold winter months.

Donna Pryde, her partner Victor Henry, and fellow boat owner Michael Redmond have displayed an art installation called ‘Have a Heart – Light up Lecarrow Harbour’ for the past few weeks in a bid to raise the profile of their ongoing campaign.

Donna, a New Zealand native, told the Roscommon People this week that the art installation, which features a heart and lights, can only be powered while her boat is running.

“Last year we had ‘Light Up Lecarrow’ but this year I wanted to go bigger,” she said, “I love chatting to the local people who come down for their walk and to enjoy the lights. A lot of people don’t realise that there’s no power here for boaters in the winter”.

Waterways Ireland claim a lack of manpower means power points at the harbour cannot be maintained through the winter, but Donna refutes

y m a t i W

this argument.

“There is power going to the electric power points and they light up at night. The display screen is also working on them but they’ve specifically cut power to the outlets. I can’t see how it would require a lot of manpower to maintain…just imagine what we could do if we had power,” she said.

The lack of power at Lecarrow Harbour has been an ongoing battle for Donna, who said she has received plenty of support locally.

“Over 200 people signed a petition last year and the local people have been very supportive and welcoming.

I am originally from Dunedin in New Zealand but have been living in Ireland for twenty years, the last fourteen on a boat.

“I like staying here in Lecarrow because the harbour offers great shelter and it feels safe. We buy briquettes from Shane Coffey (Coffey’s Stores) and we get a few bits and pieces from Sarah Jane (Coffey’s pub and shop).

We’ve been up to the pub a few times too when it was open and we really like it here,” she said.

Donna, Victor and Michael have also

raised the issue with local public representatives but have yet to hear positive news.

“This is a great base from which to explore Roscommon, especially when the summer boating season starts in March. When we come through Covid-19, the economy will need all the help it can get and boating tourism in Roscommon should be part of it,” she said.

To highlight the need for power at Lecarrow Harbour and to urge Waterways Ireland to ‘Have a Heart’ this year, the boating trio have been displaying their art installation at limited times this winter.

This evening, they will fire up the ‘Countess Rose’ and light up Lecarrow one last time before taking a break until Valentine’s Day. The display will run from 7 to 8 pm but due to Covid-19 restrictions is only available to those who live within a 5km.

Once restrictions are lifted, new dates and times will be made available so everyone can enjoy the lights and raise the profile of the campaign to give the power back to the boaters who help make Lecarrow Harbour such a welcoming place.

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New Zealander Donna Pryde pictured on her boat ‘Countess Rose’ at Lecarrow Harbour earlier this week.

Ballymurray National School

Ballymurray National School is currently accepting enrolments for 2021/22.

Unfortunately, we cannot host an Open Evening this year due to Covid 19 restrictions.

For further information or an application form, please contact the principal, Tom Gately at e.mail: principal1.ballymurrayns@gmail.com

Closing date for applications is Friday, February 26th.

12

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Music, sport and Tommy… my TV guilty pleasures!

Still on seasonal gardening leave, our columnist has been exploring TV options… and has discovered what he’s been missing!

Way back in March, when this horrible virus first caused us to go into lockdown, someone ‘upstairs’ must have said we will try to make this thing as bearable as possible, and give those poor suffering folk down there on earth some good weather to help them get through this unprecedented pandemic.

Accordingly, we spent most of our newfound spare time out in the garden, learning about flowers and plants, becoming experts on bees and butterflies and other garden insects, walking the roads, breathing in the lovely fresh country air, and just learning to appreciate the rural areas a lot of us are lucky enough to live in. Maybe for the first time ever we found ourselves becoming familiar with the wonderful works of nature.

All through the spring, summer and autumn, we loved the long sunny evenings. When the clubs were open, we played golf until nearly nightfall, and even managed to get to a few local club football matches. In truth, things weren’t that bad.

One of the things that got put to side during that time was watching television. For several months I hardly saw any TV programmes at all. Sadly, then we got the dark, early evenings, complete with loads of rain and storms, and all of a sudden the telly was back on the agenda.

Lately I have found myself spending more and more evenings parked in my recently acquired recliner chair (although I have yet to use the actual reclining mechanism, much to the horror of my family), trying to find something worth watching on the hundred or more channels that we have. The remarkable thing is I have discovered three shows, all of which have been on the air for some years, but which, for some reason, I only paid passive attention to before this.

The first one is on TG4 – it’s the country music competition, Glór Tíre. On the show, the top performers on the Irish country scene take a newcomer on board, mentor them, and put them forward to the competition in the hope of winning the whole thing out, playing for a big money prize and the chance of a successful career on the country music scene.

Last week, I tuned in and one of my favourite singers, Tyrone lass Cliona Hagan, was the big star, and I must say she was absolutely brilliant on the night, performing better than I’d ever heard her before. However, it was the girl she mentored, Tilly Dawson-Shanley, that

Frank Brandon is really enjoying Tommy Tiernan’s unscripted chat show on RTE on Saturday nights.

caught my eye, as she is a girl I have known for quite some time since I was working in Athlone.

Her parents, who are living in Glasson, are very involved in the world of horses and showjumping, as is Tilly herself, and I met them and young Tilly several times over the last number of year.

I was aware that she was a very talented and accomplished singer, however I didn’t know she was into country music. I have to say her performance on Glór Tíre was extremely impressive.

She got great praise from the three judges; they all agreed that she sang beautifully, looked amazing, and had a great stage presence. All she needs is for the local public to get behind her and give her their votes.

Obviously it’s a nationwide talent competition, which will be very hard to win, but I really hope Tilly can get the votes she needs to get over the line, win the big prize, and become the country star she deserves to be. I remember telling her one time that when she made it big I would get her a gig in one of the local pubs in Creggs. Of course that prize is put on hold for a little while, but I am a man of my word, so Tilly, when all is back to normal you will top the bill in Creggs. Bet you can’t wait!

The second of my must-watch TV programmes is Laochra Gael, a show that has also been on TG4 for a few years now, but has never really caught my attention. I think the reason is because it used to concentrate on all the GAA players with the most numbers of All-Ireland medals and those with the highest profiles, and I suppose (probably wrongly) that I always thought I knew most things about them anyway. As a result, I never watched it at all.

However, a few weeks ago I read a few newspaper articles on the programme that had featured Kevin Cassidy, a Donegal footballer, who had famously missed out on an All-Ireland medal because of comments he made in a book, ‘This is our year’, which angered then-manager Jim McGuinness and resulted in his being dropped from the Sam Maguire winning team. The programme seemed to dig a lot deeper into the player’s life, including outside football, and since that programme aired a few weeks ago I have seen two shows – one featuring Dublin hurler and Tipperary native, Ryan O’Dwyer, and the second one featuring Galway camogie star, Therese Maher.

Each programme made compulsive viewing, as they dealt with every facet of the subject’s lives, including disappointment, family bereavements, normal family life, and all the trials and tribulations that they had to deal with. None of the difficulties that the players had to face were in any way sugar-coated.

I think the normal two and sixpence out there (like me) sometimes think that our sports stars live in a protected bubble where they are safe from the worries of everyday life, but Laochra Gael shows that nothing could be further from the truth. The players’ lives, problems and all, are well and truly laid bare for all to see.

I believe Roscommon’s Shane Curran will feature on a future programme, and, knowing him, it will be riveting viewing. But in general, I applaud TG4 for letting us into the lives of people who may be slightly less well known than the top superstars, but who have stories every bit as interesting to tell. Watch out for the rest of the series (and you will thank me for telling you about it).

The last of the programmes is Tommy Tiernan’s unscripted chat show, where Tommy talks to people whose identities are hidden from him until they actually appear on set.

Many of them can be almost unknown to the Irish public, while some, like actress Brenda Fricker, can be very well known, but very difficult to interview.

I never made any secret of the fact that Tiernan does nothing for me as a comedian, but as an interviewer, he is just brilliant. I think his secret is the obvious interest he has in all the people he interviews, his empathy with them all, and especially his ability and willingness to listen.

I often feel that some chat show hosts think they are more important, funnier, and more interesting than their subjects, and as a result they miss the opportunity to really get them to open up. But Tommy has a unique talent that makes everyone feel comfortable, and once again all I can say is have a look and see if you find it to be as wonderful as I do.

One of his recent shows, in which he said to our President Michael D that he was the wrong shape for golf, was just so funny. The craic he had with our Head of State was wonderful, which also made me realise that Michael D is another unique and precious asset.

Anyway, keep an eye out for all of these shows, and hopefully they will shorten the rest of the long winter nights for you and keep you entertained until it’s time to get back out into the sadly neglected gardens.

And finally…

Finally for this week, what about ten-yearold Aoife Ni Niocaill, who kicked her football into the sea at Woodstown beach in Co. Waterford and saw it disappear into the distance on the strong current. Amazingly, the ball travelled all the way to Llanryhstud beach in west Wales, where, seven days after it went for its ‘swim’, it was found by a woman, Aline Denton, who was picking litter off the beach.

Her first instinct was to put the ball into her refuse sack and bring it to the local refuse place, but then she saw the girl’s name written on the ball, knew it was an Irish name, saw the GAA logo, and decided to try to reunite Aoife and her football. Through the magic of Facebook, she made contact with the young girl, and the good news is that the reunion will take place in the near future.

The Welsh lady says she has to be sure that her trip to the post office is an essential journey, so when she needs milk again (hope she drinks tea or eats cereal), she will post it back. Young Aoife feels she is now famous after all the interest in her story, but, famous or not, she says she is never bringing a ball to the beach again!

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Kilteevan NS enrolment 2021 Kilteevan National School is now accepting enrolment applications for September 2021. We welcome girls and boys from junior infants to sixth class.

A rural primary school only a short drive from Roscommon Town, Kilteevan NS offers low pupil-teacher ratio, ample indoor and outdoor space for social distancing, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a love for the natural environment, play-based learning through

Aistear, art, sport, music, school concerts, school tours, sports days and cycles, swimming lessons, computer lessons, project work, quizzes, nature walks, gardening and much more!

Enrolment application forms can be downloaded from kilteevanns.com/enrolment or posted to you by our school secretary Lena â&#x20AC;&#x201C; simply email kilteevannsoffice@gmail.com with your name and postal address.

If you would like to find out

more about our school, visit our school website or email us with any questions you may have.

Closing date for enrolment applications is Friday, February 26th 2021. We look forward to hearing from you.

The staff of Kilteevan National School wish all pupils, their families and local residents well during this period of Covid-19 restrictions. We look forward to being back at school in the near future!

Kilteevan National School Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

ENROLMENT 2021/22

Kilteevan N.S is currently accepting enrolments up to February 26th for 2020/2021 Unfortunately, we cannot host an Enrolment Day this year due to Covid 19 restrictions.

For further information or to download an enrolment application form visit our

Website: www.kilteevanns.com or E-mail: kilteevannsoffice@gmail.com

13

14

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

My perspective on the pandemic’s path?

I’m glad you asked…

It has been a year since I first heard that health authorities in China were investigating a strange cluster of people presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms that appeared to have an unknown origin, other than a link to a wet market in the city of Wuhan.

Now I’m willing to bet that until early 2020, many readers would not have heard of the term ‘wet’ market. However, as an animal welfare advocate, I’m sadly all too aware of the goings on, and of the way in which these markets (whose practices are largely legal in China) operate. Whether or not you agree with the way in which business is conducted at these wet markets (and I categorically do not), speculation is rife that the novel virus we now know as Covid-19 emerged as a result of interaction between an animal and a human.

I’m no veterinarian and neither am

I a wildlife expert – just a dedicated animal advocate, animal lover and rescuer, who, before Covid (BC) and lockdown, lectured in the humane and compassionate treatment of all animals. Therefore, in response to those who’ve contacted me, asking my thoughts regarding the origins of the virus, I’ll try, with my limited knowledge, to place a bit of my own perspective on it. Here goes: When you buy, sell and slaughter wild animals for food (as is the practice at these wet markets), you’re creating not just an explosive environment for the poor innocent creature, you’re also creating a situation where diseases, if present, can spread. If any of these poor animals are ill, kept in filthy, over-crowded and stacked cages (which many of them are), these vulnerable, desperately sick innocents become stressed, leading to their viral

pathogens to intermingle. This can then possibly result in the switching of part of their genetic codes, which may feasibly then mutate in a manner that makes them highly transmissible between species.

Let me repeat: I’m no animal health or human health expert. I’m just someone trying to offer a perspective on this respiratory disease’s path, which, according to reports, scientists believe allegedly occurred when it was transferred through handlers and consumers being exposed to the poor ailing wild animals’ bodily fluids.

Fact? Fancy notion? Who knows? On the other hand, is China (where the SARS-Co-2 was first identified) also a victim, and did Covid-19 originate elsewhere? Perhaps it did, perhaps it didn’t – we may never know the entire truth.

Either way, one year on – and

Why is Micheál off on a beano while rest of us are locked down?

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan managed to stay awake long enough to inform us we aren’t allowed fly out of Ireland in search of a sneaky bit of sun, saying: “you cannot fly; you are in fact subject to a fine”. That’s grand Eamon, I totally understand that for the betterment of us all, I’m not allowed move past my designated five kilometres unless I’m making an essential journey! However, if you’ll be, “introducing much stricter sanctions on

An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin

the 5km rule to stop people flying”, why is Micheál Martin allowed skedaddle off on a beano to Washington for Paddy’s Day? I mean I know it’s traditional, but it’s hardly essential, meaning I shouldn’t be reading headlines reporting that An Taoiseach’s ‘trip to the White House for St. Patrick’s Day is still on despite Covid-19’.

Yes, it’s important to honour our special bond with the US, and even more so this year, what with the POTUS being ‘Oirish’ and all that, but can’t Micheál do what the rest of us do and Zoom Joe? Look Eamon, it’s traditional for me to spend birthdays with my girls in Dublin, but since, in your eyes, I’m only a member of the hoi polloi, and not part of the government’s ‘elite’, I’ve got to contend with Zoom calls and posting parcels! Listen, just pop a pot of shamrock into an An Post jiffy bag; Joe and Jill will understand and we can all laugh about it over a Jemmie ‘n’ red when he visits the homestead post-pandemic!

against a backdrop of political sensitivities – the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) investigators are still trying to ascertain the exact origins of Covid. What we do know and can confirm however, is that as a direct result of coronavirus, Ireland’s economy has been crippled, family businesses and schools have closed; jobs have been lost, millions have been hospitalised, and devastatingly, thousands of our loved ones have perished.

As I write, it’s reported that 4,574 deaths relating to Covid-19 have occurred, with 283,495 cases of the virus currently affecting people across this island. Sadly, I’ve got no doubt that by the time we go to press these numbers will have increased. On a global level, there have been 97.9 million confirmed cases of Covid-19.

However, it’s important to point

out that also globally, 53.98 million recoveries have been reported; these recovery rates are the stats on which we must pin our hopes.

On a personal level, I’m petrified of contracting Covid, and I’m doing all in my power (as are many others) to avoid falling victim to it. However, the woman who entered a local petrol station I was in last Friday, coughing and spluttering and devoid of a mask, clearly isn’t. And while vaccines (manufactured at breakneck speed) are abundantly available, a fearful Irish nation that is facing into further lockdowns wonders why our government/ health service appears to be infuriatingly slow with the rollout? We also wonder why anti-mask wearing morons, like this woman, are allowed to continue to place the rest of us at risk, without fear of any repercussions?

Tiresome Conor Fellow Dub Conor McGregor and his outrageous ‘antics’ have become not just tiresome…they render me nauseous to such an extent that I punched the air last weekend when I heard that Dustin Poirier reigned victorious over ‘the notorious’ mouthpiece, knocking him out in the second round. Seriously Conor… going down in the second round?

Don’t get me wrong, I love a workingclass-hero-made-good, and when I first heard about McGregor, I was delighted that an ambitious and positive role model for Irish kids had emerged – a sporting hero we could all be proud of…sure isn’t he one of our own!

But sadly, McGregor’s anything but a hero. I’m sorry to say, but given the obnoxious, condescending, brash, boastful, racist-git-hooligan persona McGregor’s cultivated – not to mention the gaggle of sycophants he’s gathered round him – this mega-minted MMA boxer appears more like a cocky-little-bully-with-bank-notesbraggart than an aspirational warrior with the heart of a true Dub!

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

A COMMUNITY’S CALL FOR HELP Padraig Beattie and his mother Mary Beattie pictured at their home near Lough Funshinagh on Wednesday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Council CEO appeals to Minister for ‘pipe’ funds Special 3-page report < DAN DOONER

The CEO of Roscommon County Council, Eugene Cummins, has written to the Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, appealing for funding to install an overflow pipe to solve the flooding crisis at Lough Funshinagh.

In his letter, Mr. Cummins highlighted the plight faced by residents and farmers and vowed that the local authority would continue to “stand beside and with the community in their weeks of need”.

The letter, made available to the Roscommon People on Wednesday, states that the works would cost in the region of €1.5 million and would form “only part of the solution”.

Mr. Cummins cites research available from

Geological Survey Ireland, which states that even if rains were to cease, any resemblance of normality “is well over a year away” without intervention.

Part of the letter reads: ‘It is imperative that further efforts are made in the context of a flood mitigation capital scheme…Existing funding schemes do not allow for the scale of planning and civil works required and the local authority could not carry this level of capital cost’.

Mr. Cummins adds that progressing the works is “fraught with difficulties and comes with more than a small probability of failure”.

He advises the Minster that other stakeholders would need to become involved and look at solutions other than the transfer of responsibility to Roscommon County Council.

The letter also highlights that the process of putting “pipe in the ground” is possibly three years away and of little comfort to families “who are at their wit’s end”.

Mr. Cummins also states that an overflow pipe would only form part of the solution and that the various departments would need to be actively involved in facilitating a solution.

He added that two properties are currently facing relocation and that farm holdings in the

area have been “significantly and negatively impacted”.

Mr. Cummins also highlighted Lough Funshinagh’s current Special Area of Conversation designation and that this would need to be examined ahead of any pipe-laying project.

The letter contains a stark warning for the Minister: ‘Without an overflow pipe the situation in and around Lough Funshinagh is going to get worse, a lot worse.

‘I am of the firm view that the existing circumstances are not of a cyclical nature and that the consequences of climate chance will continue to result in an additional inflow into the catchment which is greater than the natural outflow capacity of the lough, resulting in effectively a permanent expansive lake’.

Mr. Cummins says that the irony of this is that it will lead to the destruction of the very habitat and ecology that the SAC and SPA conservation projects are intended to protect.

The letter concludes: ‘A permanent ‘pipe’ which would allow the lough to be maintained at sea level, would permit the identified habitat to once again flourish as it did when the natural outflows were able to cope with precipitation and less severe weather that is now almost an annual event’.

CEO of Roscommon County Council, Eugene Cummins.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Taoiseach commits to contacting the OPW Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has accused the Office of Public Works of inaction on the on-going issue of flooding at Lough Funshinagh and called for Taoiseach Micheál Martin to intervene.

Speaking in the Dáil this

week, Deputy Kerrane said: “As I stand here today, two family homes are under immediate threat from flooding – one home with a couple in their eighties and the other, a mother in her seventies. A hosepipe at both homes is all

that is keeping the rising water levels out.

“What, as public representatives are we doing here today when we have elderly citizens in their homes at risk of flooding? This has gone beyond a joke. I want to see action

on this today, not reports, not meetings, actual action.

“We need to see the OPW. We need this water drained and we need that done today”.

In response, the Taoiseach committed to engage with the OPW to get alleviation as soon

as possible for the homes and landowners involved.

Kerrane, who wrote to the OPW last November and is still awaiting a response from them concluded, saying: “I have written to the Taoiseach in follow up and expect to see

immediate action. The permanent solution has been identified and costed, that won’t happen overnight but it needs to be delivered.

“In the immediate meantime, we need to see this area drained right now”.

Don’t leave residents in limbo! – Murphy

Cathal Beattie inspects flood water levels at his mother’s house near Lough Funshinagh on Wednesday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Naughten: ‘Local rainfall model is outdated’ < DAN DOONER

Independent TD Denis Naughten has once again called for urgent intervention at Lough Funshinagh and accused the Environment Minister of using an outdated rainfall model for the area.

Deputy Naughten said that while Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue and Minster of State for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, had “constructive engagement” last week, now was the time to act.

“Water levels are now 9cm higher than the historic high-water mark set in April 2020 and as I pointed out in Dáil Éireann during a debate on the turlough recently, the lough will not reach its seasonal peak until March,” he said.

“While I understand that both Ministers had constructive engagement last week when they held a meeting on the issues relating to Lough

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has called on Minister Charlie McConalogue and Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan and all relevant stakeholders to do everything in their power to find a solution to the on-going flooding at Lough Funshinagh near Rahara.

Senator Murphy raised the issue in the Seanad this week following a recent visit to the area.

“I visited the area at the weekend and to say that this flooding has had a severe impact in the area is an understatement – people are in a desperate situation.

“I know Minister O’Donovan and Minister McConalogue met last week in relation to the matter, and I had a brief meeting with Minister McConalogue this week in relation to it. This is a desperate plea. The Ministers need to get the OPW, Parks and Wildlife, residents and stakeholders together to move this forward. This can be solved.

“The OPW have turned down the proposal to build an outflow drainage pipe at the lake as they claim it could have serious ecological effects on the Turlough. But what about the serious effect the flooding is having on landowners and local residents – they are the victims in all of this.

If the water levels keep rising, many of these people will have to be relocated.

“The OPW stated that there was ‘no viable cost effective or sustainable solutions to alleviate flooding’. It is amazing that despite all the experts, from engineers to geologists, no viable solution can be found.

“A solution can be found...It’s simply not good enough to leave things in limbo in this manner,” concluded Senator Murphy.

Funshinagh, it is imperative that we now see movement on the issues I highlighted on the floor of the Dáil”.

Deputy Naughten also claimed that Minister Eamon Ryan was using an outdated rainfall model for the area around Lough Funshinagh.

“I’m also disappointed to receive confirmation from Minister Eamon Ryan that while a 20-year reference period is being used for his international negotiations on climate change, he is sticking to a 70-year model for rainfall in the vicinity of Lough Funshinagh.

“This is disappointing in light of the fact that the last twenty years have been the wettest on record and all of the climate scientists are telling us that we will see more and heavier rainfall over the decades to come.

“Clearly this is what is being experienced on the ground by families and farmers in the vicinity of Lough Funshinagh and needs to be reflected in the flood forecast modelling,” One home has already been submerged by rising water at Lough Funshinagh while two more remain in immediate danger. Pic: Mick McCormack concluded Denis Naughten.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Cllr. Laurence Fallon lives near Lough Funshinagh and says the mental anguish faced by local residents is “incredible”. Pic: Mick McCormack

Liam Kenny tends to his sheep near his flooded farmyard at Lough Funshinagh on Wednesday. Pic: Mick McCormack

‘It’s hard to get out of bed some mornings’ Flood waters cause mental anguish

< DAN DOONER

“I have it on eighteen hours a day but it won’t be long before it’ll have to be left on non-stop,” Padraig Beattie explained as he maneuvered a water pipe attached to the pump placed outside his home

by Roscommon County Council.

Padraig lives with his mother, Mary, in the twostorey family home close to Lough Funshinagh near Rahara in south Roscommon.

The rising water levels from the turlough have now entered their front garden and if it wasn’t for the timely intervention of the local authority and local residents, the Beattie’s house would already be submerged.

Padraig’s brother, Cathal, lives very close by but if the water swallows up the local road he’ll face a 15-mile detour to visit his mother and brother.

“The levels only dropped by three foot last summer – and that was after we had a drought!

“The O’Mearas have already had to be relocated and there is another house along with my mother’s under threat. Four local

roads have also been affected and one of them is impassable,” he said.

Anxiety rises with the water levels in this part of County Roscommon. This year more than most however, as the lake hits an alltime high with no sign of abating.

The Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Laurence Fallon, also happens to live near by.

“I’m like a broken record at this stage but the bottom line is that we have gone beyond talking and the Government needs to move in and find a solution,” Cllr. Fallon says.

“There’s only one way to describe the lake now – it’s like a basin on top of a table and we just can’t get the water out.

“If this was Cork City or any other place like that the solution would have been found long ago.

“There is only one solution”, he says for the umpteenth time, “and that’s an overflow pipe.

“It’s critical that we don’t leave people waiting to be flushed out of their homes.

The mental anguish here is incredible”.

The family living next door to Padraig and Mary are also called Beattie but

are no relations.

A couple in their 80s, Cllr.

Fallon says their home is also under threat and they face further isolation should the local road disappear much like the lake used to.

It’s not just homes that are currently under threat either. Padraig Beattie is facing into a tough lambing season should his recently built shed be submerged in the coming weeks.

“I only got a €40,000 grant late last year for the shed so I’ve just put sheep into it. I have 150 ewes to lamb this spring but I don’t know if the shed will be there this time next year,” he said.

Liam Kenny is another local farmer and he is currently embroiled in a battle to protect his own sheep from the encroaching lake.

“If it rises another foot or two it will enter the shed.

The water is about two feet up the back wall of the shed at the moment and that could lead to structural damage. It’s looking like I’ll have to lamb out in the field this year if it continues,” he said.

When he’s not rearing sheep, Liam is a psychiatric nurse in Mullingar, and the psychological im-

Padraig Beattie rearranges the Roscommon County Council pump in the front garden of his home near Lough Funshinagh as his mother Mary looks on. Pic: Mick McCormack

pact of the annual floods is something he and other residents are acutely aware of.

“The main concerns are with people whose dwelling house is under threat.

There’s a higher threat level this year and an area we were all proud of in terms of a wildlife habitat is

gone. It has been extremely stressful for people.

“I was scrolling the Internet recently and I came across the conservation guidelines for the Office of Public Works and other bodies. It’s very interesting how much they’ve failed here,” he said.

As for Padraig and his

mother Mary, the psychological effects of the flooding are exacerbated on a daily basis by the current scene at their front door.

Padraig says a good night’s sleep can be hard to come by as the waters inch ever closer.

“I’ll soon be checking

that pump every night,” he says.

“There are some mornings when it’s just hard to get up out of the bed because you don’t know what to expect.

“I know they’ll eventually have to act but we need something done right now”.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

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BEAM numbers don’t add up – Naughten Independent TD Denis Naughten claims that reports presented to farmers on BEAM livestock reduction targets are misleading, and called on the Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, to provide more transparency.

“The current data presented to farmers is misleading and if a farmer had a mathematics degree and went through the figures, they might find a completely different story next July. Unless information is presented in a user-friendly format then many farmers may mistakenly believe that they are already under target for July 2021,” he explained.

“In one instance, a farmer received his Department of Agriculture report which showed that he had a 10% reduction in bovine livestock manure nitrogen which would give the impression that he was comfortably under the 5% threshold.

However, that same farmer, having gone through lengthy calculations, discovered that he only barely stays under the reduced limit for nitrates despite appearing to be comfortably under the limit at the end of 2020.

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Independent TD Denis Naughten.

“This occurs as his cattle, mostly born in spring 2019, all go to higher nitrate emissions on the day of their second birthday in spring 2021. In effect this means he has to use 90 different stocking rate figures in the calculations for the first 6 months of 2021. He actually only stays under the limit because there are less days in the first half of the year, and because one animal has a birthday on the second of July.

“To leave farmers reliant on calculating birthdays and the number of days in the first half of the year in order to retain a payment that was supposed to support them through a very difficult financial situation is totally unjust.

“The Minister should also be cognisant of the fact that Covid-19 has had a big impact on farmers seeking assistance from other farmers or advisors in interpreting this nitrogen calculation. I believe he should seek a waiver from the Commission on any penalties in achieving the 5% calculation in light of the fact that the national suckler herd has fallen by a factor in excess of this target,” concluded Denis Naughten.

ICMSA: Farmers ‘disappointed and irritated’ by Hackett’s comments

The President of ICMSA has said that farmers will be “disappointed and irritated” by the sentiments expressed by Minister of State, Pippa Hackett, following the 13th Global Forum for Food and Agriculture.

Pat McCormack said it was regrettable that her release on the GFFA seemed to omit completely any mention of farmer income or the relentless downward pressure on their margins that is compounding the equally relentless rise of their costs.

“Not for the first time, senior politicians seem unable or unwilling to explain to everyone – not just the farmers – the kind of fundamental changes and challenges arising from the transition to lower emissions.

“We obviously hear the views of Minister of State Hackett but we seem to be waiting a very long time for any senior politician to say out loud and to the public what everyone had better real-

Minister of State, Pippa Hackett.

ise about that transition to low emissions farming and primary food-production. That transition is going to make food more expensive; prices paid by consumers need to rise and we will see the end of the ‘Cheap Food’ policy that has dictated farming and food in Europe for decades. That is just an inevitable consequence of the lowering of volumes,” Mr. McCormack said.

Mr. McCormack added: “Someone is going to have to break the news to the corporate retailers and their customers that the scale and nature of this transition is so enormous and profound that everyone is going to have to accept changes in the way we’ve been looking at the price of food.

Thanks to the dominance of the supermarkets, people have become used to underpaying for their food. That’s going to end as food prices begin to reflect the economic and environmental cost of production”.

Murphy raises concerns ROSCOMMON over BEAM scheme

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Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has been engaging with the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue in relation to the various concerns many farmers have raised in relation to the Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) scheme.

“The scheme brought forward to support farmers because of poor cattle prices had a rule of qualification where farmers must reduce their organic Bovine nitrogen by 5%. This means farmers in the scheme in many cases would have to reduce their herd by a certain number depending on size,” said Senator Murphy.

“Nationally almost 19,000 farmers are affected who are not achieving the 5% reduction requirement in the (BEAM)

scheme. The Minister informed me that he is very aware of the situation and difficulties for some farmers. He said it is highly unlikely that rules could be changed but was looking to see if anything else could be done to assist some of the farmers affected.

“Everyone knew the rules when they decided to seek the funding but it would appear that stocking rates is a genuine problem. I accept that the matter has been worsened because marts have been curtailed under Covid-19 restrictions and farmers are unable to engage as normal with their advisers. I will continue to engage with the Minister in relation to the matter to see if some progress can be made,” concluded Senator Murphy.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Farming/NewsPeople

New straw scheme ‘complete madness’ – Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has described a new environmental scheme involving the chopping and incorporation of straw as “an apparent effort to starve livestock farmers out of the west of Ireland”.

“It is reported that €10 million has been allocated for the scheme, which would see farmers paid €250/ha to chop and incorporate straw back into the soil,” he said.

“If the scheme was fully subscribed, that would encompass 40,000ha. That is approximately 15% of the land under cereals, when you consider the figure in June 2020 was just shy of 264,000ha.

“This is complete mad-

ness on a number of levels.

Where will livestock farmers source bedding for animals if almost one million bales disappear from the market this year?

“There is so much talk about animal welfare, and yet here is the Government apparently introducing a scheme to reduce the amount of available bedding – following a year when straw yields were particularly poor”.

Deputy Fitzmaurice said that farmers in the west of the country “consistently pay the highest prices for straw” and that this scheme would further drive prices up.

“When you look at figures from the Central Statistics Office, you can also

see that the area under cereals last year dropped by almost 4,000ha compared to 2019.

“If similar trends continue, it could spell bad news for livestock farmers and those in the mushroom industry who also rely heavily on straw,” he added.

“And this is all before you consider the fact that Bord na Mona has ceased peat production, which was an alternative source of bedding for livestock farmers”.

The Independent TD said that he was fully supportive of the tillage industry but that funding needed to be delivered as part of a more suitable scheme and that a “serious rethink” was required.

Castlerea MART WATCH There were larger numbers of stock presented for sale last Thursday (21st), with trade remaining very buoyant. With strong farmer activity and increased Northern demand, the bullock and heifer rings witnessed a good clearance. Forward lots in particular were much sought after, and a top price of €2,110 was achieved for a LMX breeding heifer.

The weanling rings are noticing steady price improvement, while breeding stock and runners are reporting good clearance.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,190 to €1,750 per head, springers made from €1,180 to €1,780 per head, calves made from €320 to €350 per head and runners made from €300 to €730 for the continental lots on offer.

Sales continue at Castlerea mart today (Thursday 28th), with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am, with Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions in place.

Sample prices for Bullocks: Lmx 400kgs €1050, Ch 365kgs €890, Ch 425kgs €1070, LM 540kgs €1330, Six 545kgs €1320, Ch 520kgs €1280, Lm 595kgs €1420, Lm 570kgs €1370, Ch 625kgs €1470, Lmx 675kgs €1560, AA 740kgs €1610.

Heifers: BBx 415kgs €1210, Lmx 370kgs €1140, Lm 375kgs €930, Lm 525kgs €2110, Ch 645kgs €1480, Ch 610kgs €1460, Ch 545kgs €1350.

Dry cows: AAX 850kgs €1690, Chx 745kgs €1600, Lm 735kgs €1390, Fr 535kgs €680, and Ch 635kgs €1150.

Weanling bulls: Lmx 295kgs €820, AAX 285kgs €760, Lmx 260kgs €710, Ch 420kgs €1090, Ch 425kgs €1130, Ch 475kgs €1160, and Ch 345kgs €880.

Weanling heifers: Six 275kgs €900, Lmx 265kgs €860, Lmx 260kgs €810, Chx 295kgs €780, Lmx 320kgs €930, Lmx 350kgs €920, and Lmx 410kgs €1130.

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Covid 19 Level 5 – Mart Restrictions All sales shall be ONLINE ONLY on our LSL App Buyers must register to view stock prior to sale. Sellers must drop off their livestock and leave. Animals will be sold subject and Sellers will be informed of their prices by telephone.

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End of the Month Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, January 29th at 11 a.m.

21 pens on offer Also Heifers & Dry Cows ----------------------

Friday, February 5th at 11 a.m.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

IFA: TAMS carry-over must be resolved

Cattle sheltering from the rain near Rathcroghan recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years)

IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has welcomed the announcement by the Minister of Agriculture Charlie McConalogue, that tranche 21 of TAMS has opened, under the EU CAP transitional rules.

“It’s important that there will be no gap between the closing of one tranche and the opening of another. Over €260 million has been paid out to 18,500 applicants, and €80 million was announced in the Budget for TAMS. “I am calling on the Minister of Agriculture to confirm that there will be four definite tranche dates for 2021, which is vital to allow farmers to continue with investment plans,” he said.

Mr. Biggins added that only 70% of applicants have been approved for the last two tranches and that unsuccesful applicants have been carried forward to subsequent tranches, leaving farmers facing an uncertain situation regarding their investments.

“All tranche 20 applicants, including the applicants carried over from previous tranches, must receive approval without delay. IFA is urging the Minister to ensure that the delays in previous tranches are addressed. The problem of approvals will continue unless the carryover fixed.

This issue must be rectified to avoid on-farm investment plans stalling,” he said.

Roscommon MART WATCH There were good numbers on offer at our second online cattle sale last Friday (22nd). There was a strong trade for heifers, with prices fetching from an average of €2.36 per kilo up to €3.09 per kilo. Again this week there was a brisk trade for an increased entry of dry cows, with prices ranging from €1.81 per kilo up to €2.26 per kilo.

This Friday (29th) sees our special sale of bullocks with twenty pens on offer as well as our general sale of heifers and dry cows. Our next special sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows will take place on Friday, February 5th, with booking accepted up to 5 pm on Monday, February 1st. Please note that all customers must wear a facemask or a face covering.

There was a smaller entry of sheep on offer at our sale on Wednesday (27th) with a slight dip in trade for hoggets and cast ewes. Finished hoggets made up to €145 for 56.4kgs, while stag ewes made up to €136. Cast ewes made from €64 to €136 per lot, and in-lamb ewes made up to €200.

Our next online sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes takes place at 11 am on Wednesday, February 3rd.

Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set, and all stock must be penned by 10am.

The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 870kgs €1890, Char X 875kgs €1760, Lim 785kgs €1720, BBX 815kgs €1670, Lim X 730kgs €160, Lim X 715kgs €1580, Char X 685kgs €1540, PTX 690kgs €1540, Lim X 675kgs €1200, Lim X 580kgs €1210.

Heifers: Lim X 665kgs €1770, Char X 735kgs €1740, Char X 725kgs €1680, Lim X 550kgs €1660, Char X 630kgs €1580, Simm X 735kgs €1640, Char X 500kgs €1270, Lim X 480kgs €1340, Char X 475kgs €1200, Lim X 375kgs €1160, Char X 370kgs €940, Lim X 430kgs €1130, AAX 510kgs €1140.

Finished hoggets: 56.4kgs €145, 49.1kgs €144, 52.3kgs €143, 54.5kgs €143, 50.1kgs €140, 49.7kgs €139, 48kgs €138, and 46kgs €124.

Special Spring Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, February 1st ----------------------

Friday, February 12th at 11 a.m.

Special Spring Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 4th ----------------------

Tuesday, February 2nd at 4 p.m.

Special Spring Sale of Weanlings Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 28th

Also Suckler Cows – Included in Sale 6 Top Quality Simmental X Cows (5 – 4th Calvers & 1- 6th Calver) in calf to easy Calving Lim Bull due Jan onwards ----------------------

Tuesday, February 9th at 4 p.m.

Weanlings & Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 4th

Also Full Dispersal of Top quality Suckler Herd for Mervyn Waters Consisting of 40 continental cows - half with calves at foot-the rest are calving from Feb – April to P.B. Ch Bull and AI LM Bull. & 10 Heifers ( LM and SIM) in calf to PB AA Bull scanned 5 – 7 months in calf PB CH BULL for sale (seven years old) Also 6 Red LM Maiden Heifers suitable for breeding.

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Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

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Wednesday, February 10th at 11 a.m.

Special Entry of 40 in Lamb Ewes & Hoggets Suffolk X & Belclare X scanned in lamb to P.B. Suff & Char Rams due 7th March onwards

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

20

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

PEOPLE PLATFORM Your say, our say….in everyone’s favourite local newspaper!

Reader responds on ‘Mother and baby homes’ Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon Dear Editor, I always look forward to reading the comments in the Roscommon People from regular letter contributor Ian Hester, but in my view his remarks on the mother and baby homes were slightly off the mark.

No nun or priest ever kidnapped any pregnant girl in the past to keep control of a society which had no interest in change as implied in Ian’s letter in which he referring to nuns and priests as “Jekyll and Hyde characters”.

The Church as an institution over a

period from the 1920s into the 1980s behaved in a very cruel, callous, cold and calculating manner to its flock in general – but in particular to single mothers and their offspring.

Nuns, even in primary school and also in secondary school, could be quite cutting and patronising to so-called ‘weaker students’ – and some dished out corporal punishment at the drop of a hat. Many lay teachers weren’t so innocent either.

Irish society must share some of the blame as we all enjoyed a bit of gossip, scandal and character assassination.

In the past (1950s, etc.) some Irish

fathers used belts to beat their pregnant daughters out of their homes for good – never to return. They disinherited them from the will and banished them from the parish.

Landlords wouldn’t rent to single mothers and employers wouldn’t hire them.

Only in 1973 did the Government bring in an allowance for single mothers.

As a society, we must atone for previous generations and build the best possible future for all our citizens.

Yours sincerely, Thomas Glancy

Reducing flood risk Dear Editor, Much good work goes unseen, and so I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the timely and excellent work carried out by Roscommon County Council in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Within the space of a few weeks, trees, scrub and debris were removed from the flood channel of the Shannon just downstream of Jamestown. This scrub had been allowed to thicken over fifty years or so,

and formed an impenetrable barrier approximately halfway across the river.

This simple action has reduced the risk of flooding for thousands of people, farms, businesses and wildlife. Those who have suffered from flooding in 2009 and again in 2016 will appreciate the significance of this.

While the flow of water coming into Carrick-on-Shannon was identical on November 31st, 2020, and January 1st, 2020, the water level in Carrick-on-

Covid-19 ‘commandments’

Shannon was 190mm lower on January 1st. The estimated reduction in level in a flood similar to the 2015 flood as a result of this work is 260mm (or 10.5” in ‘old money’).

This was taxpayers’ money very well spent. An annual or biennial maintenance programme on the flood channel by both local authorities would be worth considering.

Yours sincerely, Brian Kenny

Carrick-on-Shannon

Tower, Blarney, Co Cork Dear Editor, 1: Thou shalt not have alternative Covid-19 beliefs other than promulgated by the Holy Trinity – Martin, Varadker and Ryan.

2: Thou shalt wear a face diaper.

3: Thou shalt not be within two metres of another person in a public place.

4: Thou shalt not consume alcohol in a pub except when you pay €9 for a substantial meal; two collations are not allowed as a significant meal.

5: Thou shalt not touch another, except elbow-to-elbow or foot-to-foot through clothing or footwear.

6: Thou shalt not copulate without wearing a face diaper.

7: Thou shalt not interact with alternative media.

8: Thou shalt not assemble with others to protest against Covid rules.

9: Thou shalt not commit thought crimes.

10: Thou shalt not criticise the government.

11: Thou shalt not travel any further from your home in excess of what’s decreed by the government.

12: Thou shalt not worship alternative viewpoints to the government narrative.

13: Thou shalt always believe the United Nation’s World Health Organisation doctrines.

14: Thou shalt not take hydroxychloroquine as a disease preventative.

15: Thou shalt consent to inoculation if mandated by the government at the behest of the World Health Organisation.

Yours sincerely, Joe Terry

‘Great news for the hares of Ireland’ Dear Editor, I welcome the rejection of a legal challenge to the government’s suspension of hare coursing activities as part of the Covid-19 clampdown.

But I’m aghast at the very notion of such a challenge. At a time when the majority of sporting organisations, in common with the hospitality and construction sectors, have ‘donned the green jersey’ in the interest of public health and safety, it’s hard to credit the self-serving and arrogant stance adopted by the coursing

fraternity. Coursers are essentially demanding the ‘right’ to set dogs on hares in public places...in the middle of a pandemic!

Aside from coronavirus restrictions, the current hare-coursing season should never have been permitted to commence in the first place. In September, conservationist groups had recommended that the license to capture hares for the 2020/21 season not be granted, due to the prevalence of the RHD2 virus in the countryside.

This disease is fatal to hares and

rabbits in much the same way that Covid-19 is to humans. It is highly contagious, and can be spread by coursing activities such as the use of nets to trap hares and the corralling of the animals into compounds or paddocks.

With coursing suspended, the government should now consider a permanent ban, as this activity stands condemned on animal welfare, conservation, and disease control grounds.

Our iconic Irish Hare is a subspecies

of the Mountain Hare that is unique to Ireland. It has the distinction of being one of our few truly native mammals and conservationists refer to it as the Flagship of Irish biodiversity. It is a treasured part of our wildlife heritage that belongs to all of us, not just to a heartless minority that derive pleasure from watching it run for its life.

During the long bleak months of lockdown, we have acquired a deeper appreciation of nature, of our wonderful variety of flora and fauna and

those celebrated land and seascapes that give us our semi-mythical, ‘Forty Shades of Green’.

When the pandemic is over and life gets back to normal, let’s not overlook the plight of our native hare.

This magnificent creature deserves better from us than to be at the butt end of this joke that calls itself a ‘sport’.

Yours sincerely, John Fitzgerald (Campaign for the Abolition Of Cruel Sports)

21

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople do our best to support them. Wishing success to all involved.

Also of note this week is the news that innovative local business, Lidan Designs, are finalists in the National Enterprise Awards Final, which takes place virtually on February 11th. Lidan Designs specialise in the sustainable construction of modular dwellings from their site on the Lanesboro Road in Roscommon. We wish them well in the Awards and continued success for the future.

S

hortly before I sat down to write, the Government announced an extension to Level 5 restrictions. At this point in time, the situation appears worse than it did at any time previously. The number of cases remains high and our leaders appear very unsure about what to do next.

When the pandemic began and lockdown became a thing, most of us assumed a quick solution would be found. How wrong we were!

The first lockdown was, for many people, unprecedented time off with the kids. Like many, we thought we would make the most of it, as it would never happen again. The second lockdown was short, and we had Christmas to look forward to once restrictions were lifted in early December. In hindsight, maybe we all could have been a little more cautious in the weeks preceding Christmas. The experts, perhaps, should have foreseen what would happen.

A Christmas economic boost was very important in terms of generating revenue and giving businesses, most of which had already stumbled through a horrid year, a chance to cushion themselves for the usually quiet January and February period. Little did any of us know how bad things would be within days of the Christmas season coming to an end.

For many months now, the talk has been about how the world has changed. It’s becoming more obvious with each passing week that a lot of the changes we are seeing may be permanent ones. Many challenges lie ahead. Working from home will work for some, but not for all. Home schooling is like mustard: you either love it or you hate it!

Working from home and home schooling at the same time… well now that takes multi-tasking to a whole new level!

Travel as we knew it will never be the same again. Will thousands gather in stadiums for concerts/sports events, etc. like they used to?

Will they want to? How will small businesses fare? Many of them just about scraped by over the last year. How many of them are no longer in a position to keep the show on the road?

Only time will tell, but as always, where there is difficulty, there is opportunity.

As the world changes, so too does the way people shop and do business. Businesses that are in a position to adapt – and not all of them are – will find new ways of generating custom.

New markets will emerge, and they will be served by innovation in the face of adversity.

Likewise, how people live and view the world will change.

Humans have, for thousands of years, adapted to one crisis after another. It’s what we do best. Notwithstanding the widespread death and destruction caused by Covid-19, there is an opportunity for many of us to embrace the change that is occurring and to use it to our advantage. The thing to fear most is fear itself!

Despite the difficulties and uncertainty, I notice a number of new businesses appearing on the scene in town recently. A new food store and a well-stocked pet-store have opened side by side on the Circular Road, beside Castlemine Meats. Also, a new shop has opened on Castle Street selling a great range of spices and food ingredients from various countries, adding to the wonderful variety of foodstores already operating locally. And a new tattoo and piercing parlour has recently opened its doors on The Square. Fortune favours the brave, as they say, and these business people deserve lots of good fortune for their bravery in setting up shop during a pandemic. They add great diversity to our town, and we should all

Information to all passengers: COVID - Additional pandemic control restrictions and mandatory quarantine for travellers from Brazil.

On January 26th, the Government of Ireland announced an extension of the lockdown at its most rigorous stage (Level 5), in addition to more stringent coercive measures. Main points: - Level 5 extended until March 5th.

- Installation of control points within a 5 km radius, from the border with Northern Ireland.

- Mandatory self-isolation for 14 days by residents, when arriving from trips abroad.

- Mandatory quarantine of 14 days, in a hotel defined by the State, for any traveller coming from abroad who does not present a PCR certificate of negativity for Covid-19 after entering Ireland, and a fine of €2,500 or incarceration for up to six months, for those caught in disobedience of the quarantine.

- Maintenance of control points in the vicinity of international ports and airports in Irish territory, with a view to repressing nonessential international travel.

Travellers from Brazil - complementary measures: - Suspension of entry visa exemption for travellers from South America and South Africa, until March 5th, and: - Application of all the general restrictions above, in particular the one regarding the mandatory quarantine, even if one holds the certificate of negativity, for all travellers from Brazil and South Africa.

Information extracted online.

P

ouco antes de me sentar para escrever, O governo anúncio a extensão das restrições do nível 5. Neste momento, a situação parece pior do que em qualquer momento anteriormente. O número de casos permanece alto e nossos líderes parecem muito inseguros sobre o que fazer a seguir.

Quando a pandemia começou e o bloqueio se tornou uma coisa real, a maioria de nós presumiu que uma solução rápida seria encontrada. Como estávamos errados! O primeiro bloqueio foi, para muitas pessoas, uma folga inesperada com as crianças.

Como muitos, pensamos em tirar o máximo proveito disso, pois nunca mais aconteceria.

O segundo bloqueio foi curto e tínhamos o Natal para esperar, assim que as restrições fossem suspensas no início de dezembro. Em retrospectiva, talvez todos nós pudéssemos ter sido um pouco mais cautelosos nas semanas anteriores ao Natal. Os especialistas, talvez, devessem ter previsto o que aconteceria.

Um impulso econômico de Natal foi muito importante em termos de geração de receita e de dar às empresas, a maioria das quais já havia passado por um ano preocupante, uma chance de se protegerem para o período geralmente calmo de Janeiro e Fevereiro. Quase nenhum de nós sabia como as coisas estariam ruins dias depois do fim do Natal.

Por muitos meses, a conversa tem sido sobre como o mundo mudou. Está ficando mais óbvio a cada semana que muitas das mudanças que estamos vendo podem ser permanentes. Muitos desafios pela frente.

Trabalhar em casa funcionará para alguns, mas não para todos. O ensino em casa é como “mostarda”, ou você ama ou odeia. Trabalhar em casa e estudar em casa ao mesmo tempo ... bem, agora isso leva a multitarefa a um nível totalmente novo! Viajar como se conhecíamos nunca mais será o mesmo. Milhares de pessoas se reunirão em estádios para shows / esportes, eventos etc. como costumavam

fazer? Eles vão querer? Como as pequenas empresas se sairão? Muitos deles passaram mal no último ano. Quantos deles não estão mais em condições de manter o show na estrada? Só o tempo dirá, mas como sempre onde é difíciculdade, há oportunidade. À medida que o mundo muda, também muda a maneira de comprar e fazer negócios. As empresas que têm condições de se adaptar, mas nem todas, encontrarão novas formas de gerar customização. Novos mercados surgirão e serão atendidos pela inovação em face da adversidade. Da mesma forma, a maneira como as pessoas vivem e veem o mundo mudará. Os humanos, por milhares de anos, se adaptaram a uma crise após a outra. É o que fazemos de melhor. Apesar da morte e destruição generalizadas causadas pela COVID-19, há uma oportunidade para muitos de nós abraçarmos a mudança que está ocorrendo e usá-la em nosso proveito. O que mais devemos temer é o próprio medo!

Apesar das dificuldades e incertezas, noto alguns novos negócios surgindo na cidade recentemente. Uma nova loja de alimentos e uma loja de animais bem abastecida abriram lado a lado na circular rd, ao lado do açogue Castlemine. Também foi inaugurada uma nova loja na Castle Street, vendendo uma grande variedade de especiarias e ingredientes de vários países, acrescentando-se à maravilhosa variedade de lojas de alimentos já em funcionamento. E um novo estúdio de tatuagem e piercing abriu recentemente suas portas no centro. Boa sorte aos bravos, como se costumamos a dizer, e esses empresários merecem muita sorte por sua coragem em abrir uma loja durante uma pandemia. Eles adicionam uma grande diversidade à nossa cidade, e todos devemos fazer o nosso melhor para apoiá-los. Desejo sucesso a todos os envolvidos.

Também essa semana em pauta a notícia de que a empresa local inovadora, Lidan Designs, é finalista do National Enterprise Awards Final, que acontece virtualmente em 11 de fevereiro.

A Lidan Designs é especializada na produção sustentável de moradias modulares do seu site na Lanesboro Road em Roscommon.

Desejamos a eles boa sorte na premiação e sucesso contínuo para o futuro.

Informações todos os passageiros: COVID - Restrições adicionais de controle da pandemia e quarentena obrigatória para viajantes procedentes do Brasil O Governo da Irlanda anunciou hoje, 26 de janeiro, prorrogação do “lockdown” em seu estágio mais rigoroso (nível 5), além de medidas coercitivas mais rígidas. Pontos principais: - Nível 5 prorrogado até 05 de março; - Instalação de pontos de controle no raio de 5 km, a contar da fronteira com a Irlanda do Norte; - Obrigatoriedade do autoisolamento por 14 dias por residentes, ao chegarem de viagens ao exterior; - Quarentena obrigatória de 14 dias, em hotel definido pelo Estado, para todo viajante proveniente do exterior que não apresentar certidão de negatividade para COVID, após a entrada na Irlanda, e multa de EURO 2.500, ou encarceramento por até seis meses, para aqueles flagrados em desobediência da quarentena; e - Manutenção dos pontos de controle nas imediações dos portos e aeroportos internacionais no território irlandês, com vistas a reprimir viagens internacionais não essenciais.

Viajantes procedentes do Brasil – medidas complementares: - Suspensão da isenção de visto de entrada para viajantes oriundos da América do Sul e da África do Sul, até 5 de março; e - Aplicação de todas as restrições gerais acima, em especial a que se refere à obrigatoriedade de quarentena, ainda que detenha o certificado de negatividade, para todos os viajantes oriundos do Brasil e da África do Sul. Informação extraida online.

Roscommon ranked 16th best county to live in! < DAN DOONER

Roscommon has been ranked as the 16th best county to live in in the Republic of Ireland according to the Ireland Livability Index.

The index is aimed at taking the guesswork out of property purchase in Ireland and scores the 26 counties out of 100 according to their natural amenity and scenery, proximity to a city, sunshine and cost of housing.

According to the authors of the index: “Liveability indices are typically used to compare cities across the world, the Economist’s Global Liveability Index is a good example. The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the move to remote working, enabling people to avoid lengthy commutes to work. This has spurred an interest in relocating away from large cities.

“However, for those looking to move to a location outside of a global city there is a lack of useful comparative information to help make the decision to move”.

County Waterford topped the list with a livability score of 74 while Wexford, Donegal, Cork and Wicklow rounded up the top five.

Offaly was ranked bottom of the pile with a score of 36 while Roscommon’s 44 was enough for 16th place, just ahead of neighbours Sligo, Longford, Leitrim and Westmeath.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday 31 January 2021 Last week, Jesus announced the kingdom of God is at hand. This week, in mighty words and deeds, He exercises His dominion – asserting royal authority over the ruler of this world, Satan (see John 12:31).

Notice that today’s events take place on the Sabbath. The Sabbath was to be an everlasting sign – both of God’s covenant love for His creation (see Exodus 20:8–11; 31:12–17), and His deliverance of His covenant people, Israel, from slavery (see Deuteronomy 6:12–15).

On this Sabbath, Jesus signals a new creation – that the Holy One has come to purify His people and deliver the world from evil.

“With an unclean spirit” is biblical language for a man possessed by a demon, Satan being the prince of demons (see Mark 3:22).

The demons’ question: “What have you to do with us?” is often used in Old Testament scenes of combat and judgment (see Judges 11:12; 1 Kings 17:18).

And as God by His Word “rebuked” the forces of chaos in creating the world (see Psalms 104:7; Job 26:10–12), and again rebuked the Red Sea so the Israelites could make their exodus (see Psalm 106:9), Mark uses the same word to describe Jesus rebuking the demons (see Mark 4:39; Zechariah 3:2).

Jesus is the prophet foretold by Moses in today’s First Reading (see Acts 3:22). Though He has authority over heaven and earth (see Daniel 7:14, 27; Revelation 12:10), He becomes one of our own kinsmen.

He comes to rebuke the forces of evil and chaos – not only in the world, but in our lives. He wants to make us holy in body and spirit, as Paul says in today’s Epistle (see Exodus 31:12).

In this liturgy, we hear His voice and “see” His works, as we sing in today’s Psalm. And as Moses tells us today, we should listen to Him. – Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church).

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Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Business

Roscommon company has ‘designs’ on success in National Enterprise Awards One of Roscommon’s most impressive businesses, Lidan Designs, has been announced as a finalist for this year’s National Enterprise Awards. The awards, an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, will take place virtually on the 11th February.

Lidan Designs was selected to represent Local Enterprise Office Roscommon at the awards and will compete against 29 other finalists for a prize fund totaling €50,000.

Lidan Designs was founded by Dan O’Brien and Liam Casey in 2017 to commercialise their novel, air-tight, timber-frame modular building system in the home office/garden room/ residential market. Their stylish, factory-produced, nZEB, ultralow energy modular buildings, rank at the very top of the market in terms of build quality, energy efficiency, aesthetics, price and ease/speed of transportation and installation.

Starting with garden-rooms, Lidan have expanded their offer-

ing to now include a wide range of residential and commercial buildings, all built modularly in their factory in Roscommon from sustainable materials.

They have a very strong focus on innovation and this has been recognised by their success on the Enterprise Ireland Agile Programme, which is helping Lidan Designs to further develop the size and range of energy efficient buildings that they can construct modularly in-factory using innovative materials and designs.

Through the hard work of Dan, Liam and their team, and with support from Roscommon County Council and the Local Enterprise Office, Lidan Designs has grown into a hugely successful business in a very short time.

The National Enterprise Awards finalists, selected by the Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities, represent a diverse range of businesses that are supported by the LEOs across the country. Now in their 22nd year,

the awards celebrate small businesses and includes awards that recognise excellence in exporting, sustainability and innovation along with eight regional awards and an overall National Enterprise Awards winner.

This year also sees the addition of two new award categories that reflect the challenging business conditions that companies have faced in 2020. The Pivot Award will be presented to a company who has successfully pivoted their business in the face of challenging conditions in the last 12 months.

The Brexit Ready Award will be presented to a company who have excelled in their preparation for Brexit particularly where it would have created specific challenges for them as a business.

Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise Local Enterprise Office Roscommon said: “It has been a challenging year for small businesses so this is a chance to highlight positive stories and

businesses who have excelled in the face of unprecedented challenges.

“These businesses have been through a rigorous process of judging, auditing every aspect of their business and this in itself can be a huge benefit to them as they plan for the future.

“Whether they win or not these finalists are well positioned to follow in the footsteps of the great companies that have gone before them such as Pestle & Mortar, Simtech Aviation and Terra NutriTech and as a network, the Local Enterprise Offices look forward to continuing to support them to help them grow”.

The National Enterprise Awards are one of a number of initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run to foster entrepreneurship across the country.

Others include Local Enterprise Week, the Student Enterprise Programme and National Women’s Enterprise Day.

Dan O’Brien and Liam Casey, Lidan Designs.

* The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland

Roscommon Social Enterprises called on to apply to €400,000 fund Will address Ireland’s greatest social challenges

Social enterprises based in Roscommon are being encouraged to apply for funding through Rethink Ireland’s Social Enterprise Development Fund 2021 which was officially launched last Thursday. €400,000 in funding is being made available nationwide to social enterprises to help lead the post-Covid economic and social recovery.

The objective of the fund is to find and back the best social enterprises in Ireland by making cash grants and strategic business support available to awardees.

Social enterprises are businesses that work primarily to improve the lives of people. Their core objective is to achieve a social, societal, or environmental impact. Like other businesses, Social enterprises pursue their objectives by trading in goods and services on an ongoing basis. However, surpluses generated by social enterprises are re-invested into achieving their core social objectives.

The Social Enterprise Development Fund was created by Rethink Ireland in 2018 in partnership with Local Authorities Ireland and funded by IPB Insurance and the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Dormant Accounts Fund.

Commenting, Minister of State with responsibility for Community

Deirdre Mortell, CEO, Rethink Ireland; Aoife Hammond, Manager, Dublin Food Coop and former Social Enterprise Development Fund awardee; Tom Keane, Head of Marketing, Communications & CSE|IPB Insurance

Development and Charities at the Department of Rural and Community Development, Joe O’Brien TD, said: “The Social Enterprise Development Fund plays an important role in supporting social enterprises who are making a positive difference to their communities. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, we have all been reminded of the importance of strong communities. The Social Enterprise Development Fund 2021 will help to grow Ireland’s strong and vibrant social enterprise sector”.

CEO of Rethink Ireland Deirdre Mortell, said: “Rethink Ireland is delighted to open applications for the Social Enterprise Development Fund for 2021. Social enterprises are at the heart of addressing Ireland’s greatest

social challenges and strengthening communities. We believe they are playing a vital role in this pandemic and will play an even more critical role as we recover from the crisis.

“Social enterprises employ people who would typically be considered far from the labour market, produce ethical and sustainable products and/ or provide vital local services at more affordable rates than the private sector. They can and will contribute to a just economic, social and sustainable recovery and we are calling on social enterprises across Ireland to apply to our fund”.

George Jones, Chairman & Group Non Executive Director IPB Insurance said: “We are delighted to support Rethink Ireland and our Local

Authority Members for the fourth year of the combined €3.2m Social Enterprise Development Fund. This initiative aims to provide critical support to the very best social enterprises across Ireland”. * Since the Fund’s foundation in 2018, it has supported 40 social enterprises with cash grants and business supports and further 38 through their Genesis & Accelerator Programmes.

It has enabled social enterprises to support 681 people to access employment, (the majority of whom are from minority groups) and mobilise 2430 volunteers.

Cummins pledges support Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, expressed his support.

He said: “We are pleased to be working with Rethink Ireland in their effort to support social enterprises around the country.

“The Social Enterprise Development Fund will complement the ongoing support available to social enterprises from Local Authorities across the country and will help deliver meaningful change to each of the organisations involved”.

through Enterprise Ireland. For more information see www.LocalEnterprise.ie/awards

Well-known stores link with SEAI to donate €129k to local community buildings

Addressing a recent meeting of the Inter-reg Europe SME Power stakeholder group John Flynn from SEAI referred to a recent initiative where SuperValu, Centra and Musgrave MarketPlace stores have teamed up with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for the ninth consecutive year to spearhead environmental change in the Irish retail sector and beyond through their ‘Building Sustainable Communities’ initiative.

Once again in partnership with the SEAI, a number of community upgrade projects were completed, with 10 stores across Ireland participating in the initiative.

The campaign calls on stores to identify and upgrade areas of their own operations which can be made more energy efficient, in keeping with high standards of energy efficiency and renewable energy usage, but also enables them to identify community buildings in their area to donate funds and enable them to upgrade their facilities.

The objective of the initiative is to reduce energy costs, fossil fuel usage and greenhouse gas emissions year on year.

This is a huge undertaking of both time and capital, with over €1.2m invested by the stores that participated in 2020 whereby several energy-saving measures and solutions were implemented.

SuperValu, Centra and Musgrave MarketPlace have said the Building Sustainable Communities initiative is one they are “extremely passionate” about, adding that the long-term difference it makes in their local communities makes their investment and efforts worthwhile.

23

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

NewsPeople

Naughten: ‘HSE too slow to act on hospitals’ < DAN DOONER

Independent TD Denis Naughten.

Independent TD Denis Naughten has criticised the HSE for being too slow in carrying out Covid-19 tests in Irish hospitals, after Tánaiste Leo Varadkar confirmed that one in three patients are contracting the virus there.

Deputy Naughten said: “While the HSE has stuck rigidly to the argument that these infections were as a result of staff picking up Covid in the community, the publication of a HSE report on Covid infection in hospitals exposes the fact that there was a six times higher rate of Covid-19 exposure in our hospitals than in the local community.

“Despite the Tánaiste’s defence of not carrying out serial testing in our hospitals, like the testing that has taken place in meat plants, the same HSE report highlighted that five out of every 100 staff in St. James’ Hospital and two out of every 100 in Galway University Hospital were

Covid positive and did not even know it.

“While first raising this issue at the beginning of November, I welcome the fact that this HSE Report on Covid infection in our hospitals has now been published and I believe it will be a game changer not only in protecting patients and staff in Galway University and St. James’ Hospitals but in every hospital across the country.

“While a very different approach was taken to meat plants, where a coordinated approach to infection in that industry was established seven months ago, it must be remembered that action was only taken by the HSE under duress”.

Speaking in the Dáil last week, the Independent TD called for regular testing of staff in Irish hospitals.

“Surely if we can do this in the meat plants, we should be able to do it for patients, front-line staff and those who will, sadly, need our hospitals over the weeks and months to come?”

newsbriefs ‘The Pilgrim Way’ launch on St. Barry’s Day The virtual launch of ‘The Pilgrim’s Way’ from Rooskey to Tarmonbarry will take place on St. Barry’s Day (February 15th).

The heritage trail is the brainchild of local resident, Seán Browne, and the ceremony itself will be performed by the Bishop of Elphin, Kevin Doran.

More details will be available in next week’s Roscommon People.

Naughten welcomes greenway routes Independent TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the publication of the five route corridors for the new Greenway from Athlone to Galway city, through counties Roscommon and Galway.

“Addressing the design team last Friday, I pointed out that it is positive to see the proposed alternative routes start off by looking at the available State-owned land and that a commitment has been given not to sever fields,” explained Denis Naughten.

“The final route selection is now down to the local communities and I would strongly encourage communities along the different route choices to view the detail maps and make their views known at www. galwaytoathlonecycleway.com,” concluded Denis Naughten.

CEP supports over 3,000 projects – Murphy Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has said that over 3,000 projects have been supported through the 2020 Community Enhancement Programme (CEP).

The Programme, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, is designed to support community groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, through the provision of small capital grants.

Senator Murphy said: “Some of the projects funded locally over the past year include €1,600 for the Ahascragh Development Association; €1,960 for Ballygar Tidy Towns; €3,810 for Brothers of Charity Suas Services in Ballinasloe; €3,000 for Ballaghaderreen Community Park; €4,000 for the Ballinameen Afterschool; €5,000 for Ballyforan Hall; €1,000 for the Ballyleague Men’s Shed; €2,500 for the Cloontuskert Development and Tidy Towns Association and €3,000 for the Lisacul Community Development Company,” he said.

Saibh and Kye Curran, Castlerea, pictured on Sunday.

Philip, Adam and Sarah Murphy, pictured with their impressive, seven-foot snowman in Gallowstown, Roscommon.

Kerrane urges Government to introduce Parent’s Leave Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Claire Kerrane TD, has urged the Government to prioritise introducing the three weeks’ Parent’s Leave and Benefit, promised in the Budget almost four months ago.

“Last week, I raised this issue directly in the Dáil with the Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and urged him to act. I was deeply disappointed by how dismissive and vague his response was,” she said.

“Many parents, especially those who have had new babies, haven’t been able to return to work after their maternity leave has ended and they have been left with no option. They cannot access childcare and their only option is unpaid parental leave.

“The legislation is listed as a priority, so where is it?

Why are families being forced to wait for months on end when this is an urgent issue? We need to know when that legislation will be brought to the House and how quickly will parents be able to avail of this three weeks parents’ leave?”

Learn to drive with

Liam and John Walsh pictured in Castlerea on Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack

Ursula and Molly Cunnane pictured going out for a brisk walk in The Demesne, Castlerea, on Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

24

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Classifieds

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

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

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

PODIATRIST

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

Department of Health Approved

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you?

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

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

The Galway Podiatrist

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone:

FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

087 2798704

Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

Construction

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

Co Galway H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

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

VHI and Laya Covered

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

PODIATRIST

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY SWEEP • Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

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

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

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

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FENCING/GATES

Des Kelly Fencing Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

FARMING

GARDENING

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

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

< FOR SALE: Round bales of hay, will deliver. Tel: 087 2965494

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

ROSCOMMON FARM SHOP

The square downtown, Roscommon Freerange and Organic Eggs/Chickens/Potatoes/ Vegetables/Organic Honey/Kale/Spinach 10 kgs Washed Roosters €3.99 4x7 ozs Irish Chicken Fillets €5.00 30 eggs €2.00 per tray McCains Gluton Free Oven Chips €1.99 per pack

Thank you for keeping us open and keep safe everybody.

GARDENING GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428 GATELY GARDENING

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

TREES FOR SALE All types of trees and hedging for sale.

Can be delivered.

Contact Tommy: 087 4177148

www.parklawntreeservices.

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

Phone:

087 2721193 TRUCKS WANTED

Trucks wanted Daf CF75,CF85 Tractors units. Box body, Curtain sider, Cab & chassie, Tipper 6 & 8 wheelers Daf XF 95 tractor units up to 2008 Volvo FL6 18, any body type, Box body Tipper etc.

Merc 814, Merc SK 1824 and bigger Old Scania and Hino Tippers Any old truck considered Mitsubishi Canter 7.5 ton up to 2001 Toyota Hilux , Dyna, Nissan Cabstar up to 2005 Also Nissan Micra up to 2001 5 door.

BOUGHT FOR EXPORT AND RESALE

Tel. 087 1922154

25

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

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

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Joseph Madden and Tracey Corrigan are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works Knockanaconny Td Ballaghaderreen, 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 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: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Roisin Kelly, intend to apply for planning permission to construct a new residential dwelling to include boundary treatment landscape and shed at Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of a new dormer type house to include shed, landscaping and boundary treatment all on site at Brideswell, Athlone 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 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: Roisin Kelly

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission sought to construct dwelling house, domestic garage, wastewater treatment system and percolation area along with associated site works at Garranlahan Beg, Ballinlough on behalf of Declan Hurley and Anne Hebron.

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

Signed: Deane Associates, Williamstown Tel: (094) 9643079

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Application is being made to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish scullery and erect two storey extension at rear of house and erect single storey porch to front of house with all ancillary works at No 15, Circular Road, (Ballypheasan Townland), Roscommon.

Signed: Charlie Costello.

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.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission sought to (1) Retain crèche and apartment and associated site works including entrances, driveways and parking facilities on revised site boundaries (Previously granted under planning ref 05/802) and (2) retain extension to rear of existing crèche and associated services at Cloonfad East, Cloonfad F35 N288 on behalf of Joelyn Keane.

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

Signed: Deane Associates, Williamstown Tel: (094) 9643079

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, FERN Architectural Studio, intend to apply for permission on behalf of Phelim Kilduff, for development at this site, Carnagh West, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of the demolition of an existing storey and a half barn structure with water tank and agricultural shed and replacement with a dwelling house to a similar floor area and style using the original stone facing.

The new development will consist of a dwelling house with living, dining, kitchen and wc at ground level and two bedrooms and bathroom at first floor level, domestic garage, new waste water treatment system and ancillary 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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Enda Fallon FERN Architectural Studio Roscommon Phone (Enda): 089 4439458 info@fern.ie www.fern.ie

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Denis and Serena Bergin, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the upgrade of existing septic tank system to a packaged wastewater treatment system and polishing filter, plus all ancillary works at Loughglinn Demesne Td., Loughglynn, 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 opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: MoleskinArchitecture Mote Park, Roscommon 086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Fergal and Eithne Fannon, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for (i) retention of site layout, domestic garage, septic tank and dwelling house to include elements which differ to that granted planning permission under PD/99/204, (ii) construction of a single storey side extension, plus all ancillary works at Ballinderry, Four Mile House, 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 opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: MoleskinArchitecture Mote Park, Roscommon 086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Vincent Walsh to demolish an existing shed, construct a slatted shed with lay back area, manure pit, new farm entrance on to public road and associated siteworks at an existing farmyard at Ballymacfarrane, Donamon, Roscommon.

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

Ph: (087) 2222874.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such 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 are applying for planning permission for erection of dwelling house and domestic garage, with septic tank and percolation area and ancillary site development works at Clooneenbaun, Oran, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Shane Regan and Rebecca Clarke.

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.

USEFUL SERVICES

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed?

If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

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

USEFUL SERVICES

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 2427727 evoroofingandguttering.com

• All types of roof repairs • Gutter cleaning from €49 • PVC fitted • Roof moss removal • Chimney repairs • Power washing • Ridge Piping • Lead valley repair • New tiles • Quality work, guaranteed

No job too big or too small

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

< TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free.

• 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 < TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011 WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

PAINTER & DECORATOR

086 2721812

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

< TURF FOR SALE: Top quality black turf, tractor trailer or jeep trailer loads.

Delivery to Roscommon, Athone and surounding areas. Phone Eamonn: 087 9784151

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

(All areas)

< FOR SALE: Large lorryloads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders for this year’s turf taken now. Tel: 086 7236301

26

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICE STATUTORY NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN GARVEY, DECEASED LATE OF BRIARFIELD, FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON. NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 49 of the Succession Act, 1965 that particulars in writing of all claims against the estate of the abovenamed deceased who died on the 3rd April 2019, Probate of whose Will was granted to the Executors on the 21st April 2020, should be furnished to the undersigned Solicitors for the Executors on or before the 1st March 2021 after which date the assets will be distributed having regard only to the claims furnished.

DATED the 26th day of January 2021.

SIGNED...........................................................

Mahon Sweeney Solicitors Main Street Roscommon

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HOARE Jerry

NAUGHTON Gerard Melitta Park, Kildare Town.

Who died 4th February 2019 (2nd Anniversary) Rest In Peace

SCANLON Sean

3 Ard Comain, Henry Street, Roscommon (7th Anniversary) In loving memory of Jerry Hoare.

In loving memory of Sean, late of Emlaghroyan, Donamon. who died on 29th January, 1997.

R.I.P.

Sadly missed along life’s way quietly remembered everyday.

No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts you are always there.

A Mass will be celebrated in memory of Gerard.

Lovingly remembered by all his family.

Notice re.

Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The amount of tears I’ve cried is nothing compared to the pain inside.

The time I’ve missed you has gone so quick 7 years has passed and I’m missing you, that you’re up there and I’m down here.

I miss you brother, I miss you my best friend.

Just sitting here in thought until we meet again.

Love from John, Liz and your brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

COSTELLO Ann Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

The local paper!

CONTACT HAZEL

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

or call us on 090 6634633 Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

087 6758874

(24nd Anniversary) On the 2nd anniversary of Gerard’s death his wife Julie, children David and Sinead and extended family remember Gerard with love.

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

Everlasting memories of Ann, who died on 28th January 2010 We can not bring the old days back when we were altogether.

The family chain is broken now, but memories last forever.

Loved and missed forever by all her family.

Mass will be offered at a later date.

FANNON Michael Joseph

It is with great sadness we announce the sudden loss of Michael Joseph Fannon of St. Helen’s, Merseyside, previously of Bollington, Cheshire, formerly of Rathbrennan, Roscommon, on Tuesday, 12th January.

Deeply missed by his beloved partner, Amy, devoted parents, Michael (Snr.) and Patricia, adored son, Finley, loving brothers, Stuart (Alderley Edge) and Shane (Isle of Man), loving sisters, Shirley (York) and Serena (Smallwood), loving sisters-in-law, Carrie (Alderley Edge) and Astrid (Isle of Man), loving brothers-in-law, Paul (York) and David (Smallwood), loving niece, Jodie (Sydney, Australia), loving nephews, Noah and Kian (Smallwood), Ruari and Raife (Alderley Edge), Leo (Isle of Man). Loving parents-in-law, Dave and Angela, family members and friends.

May Michael’s Gentle Soul Rest In Peace.

In accordance with Government guidelines on public gatherings, a private family funeral will take place on Wednesday, 3rd February at 10.00 am at St. Gregory’s R.C. Church, Bollington.

The funeral will be live streamed on the following link for loved ones and friends: https://boxcast.tv/view/michael-joseph-fannonh9xdnigeqdd0o17rhsjy Followed by a private burial at St. Gregory’s Cemetery, Chapel St, Bollington.

We request family flowers only.

Donations, would be greatly-appreciated to either www.childbereavementuk.org/donate/donate/10/ credit-card OR www.samaritans.org/donate-now.

Please quote In Memory of Michael J Fannon.

FALLON Larry Culleenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Who died on 7th January 2013 In Heaven you rest, no worry or pain.

But in our hearts, you will always remain.

Always remembered by his wife Eileen and his daughters Lorraine and Noelle.

Masses offered.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

27

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MULHERN Padraig

MULLEN Patrick (Pat)

BRADY Robert

Buckfield, Castlecoote (10th Anniversary)

Moher, Lanesboro.

Died on the 31st January, 2018 (3rd Anniversary)

Hermitage, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon.

(2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of my dear husband Robert, father, son, brother, grandfather and uncle who passed away on the 27th January, 2019

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

Sadly missed by his wife Galina and daughter Emily.

COYLE Niall Correal, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

(11th Anniversary) Treasured memories of a loving son, who passed away 28th of January 2010

Time may pass and fade away but silent thoughts and memories stay.

No longer in our lives to share but in our hearts you are always there.

Loved and remembered by your wife Eileen, daughters Siobhan, Lorraine, Fiona and Claire, sons-in-law, grandchildren, brothers and sisters.

Mass will be available online on Kilgefin Parish Church Saturday, 30th January at 7pm.

HEALY Patrick (Paddy) If we could have a lifetime wish and one dream come true, we would pray to God with all our hearts just to see and talk to you.

A thousand words won’t bring you back, we know because we’ve tried, And neither will a thousand tears we know because we’ve cried.

You left behind our broken hearts and precious memories too, but we never wanted memories, we only wanted you.

Loved dearly and never forgotten by Mam and Dad and deeply missed by Irene, Fiona, Ena, Kieran, Noelle, Brian, Edel, Aine and Niamh, brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Tisrara, Four Roads on Sunday, 31st January at 11am.

Tullyroe, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a loving husband, dad, grandad and great grandad who passed away on the 27th January 2019.

Rest In Peace

We thought of you with love today, but that is nothing new.

We thought about you yesterday and the days before that too.

We think of you in silence, we always speak your name, now all we have are memories and a picture in a frame.

Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Ethel and children Bobby, Michelle, Liam, Amanda and Paul, sons-in-law Junior and Eugene, daughters -in-law Breege and Louise.

Will those who think of him today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by your grandchildren Lily Rose, Rowan, Iarlaith, Cormac and Willow.

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you, and wish you were still here.

Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord.

Loved and remembered by his Mother Teresa, brothers Marty and Timmy, sisters Marion, Stella, Eileen, Tish, Nieces, Nephews and all the extended Brady family.

2nd Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church Ballinagare on Sunday, 31st January 2021 at 10.00 am. via web-cam on Facebook Page “FTFB CHURCH”.

Lovingly remembered by Una and family.

Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 6th February at 7pm.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon (14th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our mother and grandmother who died 27th January 2007.

Special memories keep you near as time unfolds another year.

Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you today.

Will those who think of her today a little prayer to Jesus say.

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

Corbo, Roscommon (12th and 18th Anniversaries)

(4th February 2009)

(22nd July 2003)

Time speeds on, the years have passed, since death its gloom, its shadow cast, within our home, where all seemed bright, and took from us these shining lights.

We miss those lights and always will, your vacant place no one can fill, down here we mourn but not in vain, for up in Heaven we will meet again.

Love from Marie, Vincent, Philip and Alex, Christopher and Hilary, Eva, Frank and great grandchildren.

MURRAY (nee Nolan) Bridget Ballinross and Weekfield, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary) Who passed away 2nd of February 2013 Aged 69 years

Along the road of suffering you found a little lane; that took you up to Heaven, and ended all your pain.

You may be out of sight, we may be worlds apart; but you are always in our prayers, and forever in our hearts.

To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die.

Rest in Peace

Sadly missed by her husband Eddie, sister Kathleen, nieces Caroline, Monica, Kathy and Clare, nephews PJ and Pat.

Submit your Classified online

KENNEDY Mary and Christy

Loved and remembered always by all the family.

Silent thought of times together, hold memories for us that last forever.

Sadly, missed and forever remembered by the Taylor family.

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

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

MULRYAN (nee Fallon) Mary (Ciss)

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

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: anthonymurrayandsons@gmail.com

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

28

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Window and Door Repairs - Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

- CCTV Camera Inspection

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

BLINDS

Contact Pat Hanley on

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

Cleaning Services • Roscommon • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’ KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892 INSURANCE CLAIMS

Chris’s Window Service

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

l

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 or Kenneth on 086 8044030 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd.

Tel: 090

6621220

VETERINARY

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

087 2596055

Loss Assessor/Claims Management

Martin Hibbitt CDIP LA, APA-PL

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting Approved Product Adviser Member of the PSAG-GI Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

M: 087 9818153 E: info@icr.ie

T: 091 380900 W: www.icr.ie

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

BRENDAN DOOLIN

S tephen H oare

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

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

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

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

SELLING A USED CAR? Don’t let your advert get lost in the Web!

You have a better chance of selling a reasonably priced used car within your own county!

An advert in the Roscommon People will be seen by over

80,000 LOCAL people every week!

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

INSTALLATION RECYCLING

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling

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

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 BlockEstate, 12, Galway Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site l l

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

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

Telephone: 090 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

29

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Classifieds

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633

NewsPeople

APPOINTMENTS

Money Advice and Budgeting Service The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is a national, free, confidential and independent service, providing advice and support to people in debt or in danger of getting into debt. Each MABS company is rooted within the communities they serve and staff work with clients to enable them to cope with immediate debt problems and assist them to develop good money management skills.

South Connacht MABS CLG/Roscommon Office are seeking to recruit a

Temporary Full-Time Money Adviser on a 6 months Specified Purpose contract; 35 hours per week.

South Connacht MABS CLG/Roscommon Office has a vacancy for a Temporary Full Time Money Adviser. Money Advisers play a pivotal role in MABS. Candidates must display empathy with those who find themselves in financial difficulty; knowledge and understanding of money management, consumer debt and financial services; familiarity with the provision of an advice, support and advocacy service; together with excellent communication, organisational, administrative and IT skills.

Money Adviser salary scale is currently €35,832 to €51,616 (including 2 long service increments). It is anticipated that new entrants to the MABS service will be appointed on the 1st point of the scale.

Incremental credit, should it be awarded, will be

based on previous relevant experience as set out on application form and cover letter.

Please note that MABS has established a normal retirement age in line with the State Pension (currently 66).

A panel will be formed of qualified candidates from which temporary, part-time and full time Money Adviser posts which arise within the next twelve months will be filled should vacancies arise in this period. Posts will be located in the Roscommon Town.

Applications must be made on the relevant application form (4 copies) with covering letter to The CoOrdinator, Roscommon MABS, Tower Block A, Roscommon West Business Park, Golf Links Road, Roscommon, F42 TD98. (Please mark envelope ‘Job Application’) or by email to Roscommon@mabs.ie Please contact Roscommon@mabs.ie / 0761 07 2720 if you have any special requirements in relation to completing the application form.

Closing date: 5pm on 10 February 2021 (late applications will not be accepted).

A detailed job description and application form together with further information on MABS can be accessed at: www.mabs.ie For details on how your personal data will be used as part of this process our Data Protection Notice for Job Applicants is available here: http://www.citizensinformationboard.ie/en/ data_protection/mabs.html MABS is an equal opportunities employer.

Funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Receptionist / Secretary / Office Administrator JOB DESCRIPTION Due to the company expansion, ArchEngTech Consulting Ltd, a leading Architectural, Engineering & Project Management Consultancy firm, has an excellent opportunity for a receptionist / secretary / office administrator. The full-time position is available in our head office in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Candidates should possess the following: • Proven work experience as a Receptionist / Secretary / Office Administrator as front office representative or similar role • Professional attitude and appearance • Solid written and verbal communication skills • Ability to be resourceful and proactive when issues arise • Excellent organizational skills • Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks • Customer service attitude • Proficient in all computer packages relative to the job i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc Interested candidates should submit their CV with a cover letter by email to info@archengtech.com on or before 5.00pm on Monday, 1st February 2021

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

TELEPHONE:

090 66 34633 EMAIL:

advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Liz, Saibh and Kye Curran pictured going out for a walk in Castlerea on Sunday. Picture: Mick McCormack

Croí’s Support Line for heart and stroke patients and carers Local Heart & Stroke Charity, Croí, continues to respond to the increased needs of those living with heart disease and stroke as a consequence of Covid-19.

Croí’s Heartlink West free telephone support line connects callers with their communitybased, multi-disciplinary health team, led by highly experienced cardiac nurse specialists.

Concerned individuals can connect with Croí through a telephone helpline and ‘virtual health chats’. Those who call the helpline can speak with nurses, dietitians and exercise specialists for expert advice.

HeartLink West is available Monday-Friday from 9 am-5.30 pm. Call 091-544310 or email healthteam@croi.ie to speak to our Health Team.

Heartlink West has been made possible thanks to the support of several generous donations

Annie Costelloe, Croí Heartlink West.

from regional and national companies. To learn more about this initiative or for ways to offer support please visit www.croi.ie/ heartlinkwest (endorsed by the

cardiology services of the Saolta Group).

Need information and advice on Covid-19? Go to www.hse.ie/ coronavirus.

Super Draw for St Ronan’s Hall St Ronan’s Hall in Keadue provides a venue for functions and many groups, and is home to Keadue Social Services. The hall was built in 1940 and now needs major refurbishment.

A grant was received from Roscommon LEADER Partnership to replace and insulate the roof, update toilets and sewerage system. There is also a grant from Roscommon County Council, but matching funding has to be raised.

A Super Draw is being held.

Prizes include €1000 (sponsored by Loftus Insurance, John Healy, Kilcom Broadband, Keadue Pilates, Keadue

Development Association, and Anonymous), one tonne of Arigna (valued at €500), a one night’s stay at Kilronan Castle plus dinner for two, a €200 voucher for Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone/Sean Flanagan Future View Developments, €200 voucher for Ardcarne Garden Centre, a €150 voucher (Joe Simon), a King & Moffatt Tumble Dryer, and a 4.3-litre Tower Airfryer/set Alexandra mugs.

Tickets can be purchased online at go.rallyup.com/Keadue, or in Roddy’s Grocery Shop, McCabe’s Butchers, Credit Union, and from members of the local community.

Looking to sell?

We have buyers!

Our services include: • Sales – Sell your home!

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

30

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

Sports PEOPLE

The cost of Covid!

CONVENTION TO DISCUSS FINANCIAL FALL-OUT < SEAMUS DUKE

Secretary John Prenty

The Connacht GAA Council will hold their annual convention virtually today (Thursday).

In his annual report, Secretary John Prenty says that the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic has focussed the minds of the GAA on the question of the cost of running inter-county teams.

He makes the following suggestions as to how the inter-county game can be run going forward: a senior team panel of thirtytwo maximum, with match-day panels of twenty-six, and all team expenses to be paid centrally,

with any additional costs to be confirmed with the GAA auditor.

Mr. Prenty also proposes that inter-county teams would train three times a week maximum, which would include two training sessions and a game. The backroom teams would be confined to a maximum of twelve people.

He says that the losses caused by the Covid-19 situation will have long-lasting implications for the council: “From a Provincial Council point of view, the greatest threat we face in the new decade, because of Covid-19, will be the challenges that the lack of attendances and consequent lack of finance that the pandemic has imposed”, he comments.

Roscommon will have two new representatives on the council, with Hugh Lynn and John Carty replacing Tony Flaherty and Sean Mullaney.

No update on leagues yet No decision has yet been made as to whether or not the GAA will be holding the National Leagues in 2021.

A scheduled start to inter-county training on January 15th was put back because of Covid-19 restrictions, and now with Level 5 being extended to March 5th, it is likely that the start to the inter-county season will be delayed further.

The All-Ireland hurling and football finals are now certain to be put back to August, with the All-Ireland club semi-finals and finals due to be delayed and completed in early 2022.

That will mean that the club championship season will not start until mid-August at the earliest.

The GAA’s Covid committee will meet next Monday to discuss the situation. It’s expected that an announcement will be made early next week.

Three local minors honoured Three Roscommon minors have been honoured by Electric Ireland after being crowned the Connacht winners of the 2020 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Special Recognition Awards. The awards saw minors from all four provinces of Ireland being honoured for their outstanding offthe-pitch contributions in their communities during 2020. Colm Cavanagh, 2004 All-Ireland winning minor, and one of the judges for the Special Recognition Awards, was on hand to announce the award recipients.

Strokestown GAA’s Jack Beirne and Andrew Jordan and St. Barry’s GFC member, Mark Rogers have been awarded the Connacht Electric Ireland GAA Minor Special Recognition Award for their outstanding efforts in raising over €60,000 for the Childhood Cancer Foundation.

Jack himself is a childhood survivor of Leukaemia and had benefitted from the Childhood Cancer Foundation’s services.

As part of a Transition Year project, Jack, Andrew and Mark purchased an old tractor in the hopes of restoring it and selling it, with the proceeds going to the charity.

When word spread around the community of the project, people from all over Roscommon began donating parts to help support the cause. The project went from strength to strength, and they began selling raffle tickets for the now fully restored tractor, which will be raffled off in early 2021.

These unique Electric Ireland GAA awards took into consideration the difficulties experienced in 2020 by players and communities across the country, and aimed to bring a major moment back into the lives of this age group.

Strokestown GAA’s Jack Beirne and Andrew Jordan and St. Barry’s GFC member, Mark Rogers have been awarded the Connacht Electric Ireland GAA Minor Special Recognition Award for their outstanding efforts in raising over €60,000 for the Childhood Cancer Foundation.

Speaking about the award winners, Edel McCarthy, Head of Sponsorship & Brand at Electric Ireland stated: “Electric Ireland is delighted to recognise these three young men with the Connacht Electric Ireland GAA Minor Special Recognition Award for their outstanding contribution to society in 2020.

In what has been an extremely challeng-

ing year for all, and in particular, this age group, these three young men have stood up and made an incredible impact not only on their communities, but on Irish society with their superb fundraising efforts”.

Uachtarán CLG John Horan said: “On behalf of the GAA, I would like to congratulate each of the Electric Ireland

GAA Minor Special Recognition Award winners. These awards showcase that the GAA is not just about what happens on the pitch, but that the community is at the heart of everything that we do.

These young men are a credit to the Association, their clubs, their families, their schools and, most of all, themselves”.

Darts

Darts set for last eight The Roscommon Online Darts League is now down to the final weekend of the league section and the final eight are set to be revealed.

Last Friday, David Concannon took the highest points total on the night with 14, which included two 180s, a 110 finish and 15 and 16-dart legs.

Not far behind in the points haul was Daniel McDermott with 13, which included a 180, a 110 finish and a 15dart leg. Martin Fleming also finished with 13 points and his total included three 180s, 124 and 110 finishes and a 14-dart leg.

Also with 13 points was Sean Fleming, who hit two 180s as well as 13 and 14dart legs.

The highest finish of the night went to David Doherty with an impressive 145 finish. David also had a 15-dart leg on the night.

Matty Connelly hit a 98 finish and a 17-dart leg and Gary Concannon also hit a 180 on the night.

There have now been a total of 54 180s in the league campaign so far as well as 29 100+ finishes.

Last Friday’s results were as follows (Round 11): Alan Owens 2 Tomas Rushe 7; Denis Coffey 2 Daniel McDermott 7; Sean Fleming 8 David Cafferky 1; David Concannon 5 Matty Connelly 4; Martin Fleming 4 David Doherty 5; Paul Carton 9 Gary Concannon 0.

Round 12: Tomas Rushe 3 Daniel McDermott 6; Alan Owens 5 David Cafferky 4; David Concannon 9 Denis Coffey 0; Sean Fleming 5 David Doherty 4; Matty Connelly received a bye; Martin Fleming 8 Gary Concannon 1; Paul Carton received a bye.

This Friday’s fixtures (Round 13, at 9 pm): Tomas Rushe v David Cafferky; David Concannon v Daniel McDermott; Alan Owens v David Doherty; Denis Coffey receives a bye; Sean Fleming v Gary Concannon; Paul Carton v Matty Connelly; Martin Fleming receives a bye.

The top eight will be finalised following this Friday’s fixtures, with the quarter-finals to be played the following week.

For a full list of fixtures, results and totals, check out the Roscommon Online Darts Facebook page.

31

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses Following an early morning inspection last Saturday’s meeting at Navan was cancelled due to the frozen track which was unfit for racing. The meeting at Thurles on Sunday was cancelled after a second inspection on Sunday morning due to snow on the course leaving last weekend with no national hunt racing. The cancelled Thurles card was run off yesterday, report below, and the Navan card has been refixed for tomorrow, Friday. Tuesday’s card at Down Royal was cancelled and has been refixed for tomorrow week, 4th February.

There is racing in Ireland today at Gowran Park featuring the Grade 2 Galmoy Hurdle and the Grade A Thyestes Chase away at 1.15 pm. Tomorrow racing takes place on the allweather Polytrack surface in Dundalk, first race at 4 pm and last Saturday’s cancelled meeting at Navan has been refixed for tomorrow, Friday, starting at 12.20 pm.

On Saturday, there is national hunt racing in Fairyhouse featuring the Grade 3 Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle off at 12.50 pm and Sunday at Naas there are two Grade 3 races on the card, the Limestone Lad Hurdle and the Naas Race-

Creggs RFC Report

course Business Novice Chase starting at 1.15 pm.

Racing has also been badly hit across channel with Ffos Los being abandoned last Friday, Hereford on Sunday, Market Rasen on Monday, Kelso on Tuesday with both Catterick and Wincanton yesterday.

Yesterday there was racing in Thurles and WP Mullins had a treble with stable jockey Paul Townend riding the opening two race winning favourites, Colreevy and Allaho in the Grade 2 Horse and Jockey Hotel Chase.

Aubrey McMahon rode Eurotrip to win the auction maiden hurdle and complete the treble.

Both divisions of the bumper were won by the fav. as Mullins’ nephew, trainer Emmet, and son, jockey Patrick, combined to win Div I with Noble Yeats with Churchstonewarrion winning Div II for trainer Jonathon Sweeney and Ritchie Barron.

Enjoy D’allen gave Mullingar based Ciaran Murphy, who recently took over from Dot Love, his second track winner beating R’evelyn Pleasure and Nick Lost with Connor Orr aboard.

Racing Preview Today the Galmoy Hurdle is 7/1 bar and The Great White

Shark’s 7lb mare’s allowance could make all the difference.

The other mare in the field Martin Hasset’s Mary Frances has nice touches of form including beating Burrows Saint in Clonmel last month and if there are three places could be worth an e/w bet at a big price.

In the 3m 1f Thyestes there are 21 declared, 18 of which will run, dominated by owners with Gigginstown having eight (two in the reserves) and JP McManus three. Once again weight may make a difference with Sam Torrens claiming 5lb off the bottom weight Ten Ten trained by Philip Dempsey for McManus. Her jumping has been sketchy but should have improved with her last winning run. Dempsey and McManus’s The Long Mile, a course winner, gives this race a miss and will run at the Dublin Festival in just over a week’s time in the Leopardstown Handicap Chase over 2m 5f.

Racing News At the Goffs UK Online January Sale on Tuesday, the Stuart Crawford trained Carlisle bumper winner, Hollymount was sold for top price of £ 300,000. She was purchased by Bective Stud

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs receive €10,000 boost from Aviva fund Creggs Rugby Club was recently awarded €10,000 from the Aviva Broker Community Fund after being nominated by Aengus Oates of Aengus Oates Financial Services, Roscommon.

Now in its third year, the fund provides an opportunity for financial advisers and brokers throughout the country to help support their local charities or community organisations that are making a difference in their area.

The Aviva Broker Community Fund has a total fund of €100,000 to donate to worthwhile projects completed by charities and community organisations.

Commenting on the award, Aidan Farrell, President of Creggs Rugby Club said: “We are delighted to receive this award of €10,000. This injection of funds could not have come at a better time as we recently received planning permission to build four new dressing rooms and a gym.

“Our Aviva Community Award will be spent on

equipment for the new building that will include gym equipment which will be specific to people with disabilities.

“I would like to thank Aviva for their Community Awards Scheme with an amazing total fund of €100,000, this money will make a huge difference to us and to the other awards winners on the day.

I also want to thank Aengus Oates of Aengus Oates Financial Services for nominating us”.

Brian O’Neill, Head of Communications, Brand and Sponsorship at Aviva Ireland said: “We were deeply humbled to see the amazing work that our winning charities and community organisations are involved with and the positive impact that they have on people’s lives.

“We are only too aware of the additional demands on their services and the challenges that Covid-19 has brought to bear on all of them. Aviva want to ensure our CSR program can continue to support the commu-

nities in which we operate, where our people work and where our customers live.

We wish Creggs RFC continued success in all that they do within their community”.

Aengus Oates, who nominated Creggs RFC for the award, said: “Creggs is so much more than a rugby club, it is a place that brings the local community together. Whether you’re a member of the club or not, everyone in the community has access to our floodlit walkway surrounding the pitches. This is a fantastic amenity for all the locals and allows them to feel a part of the Creggs’ family. Being on the border of Galway and Roscommon, our players can leave their friendly rivalries aside and become one team.

“Looking forward, we have secured planning permission for new state-of-the-art female dressing rooms, a further example of how we are working towards becoming an all-inclusive community club”.

owned by Noel and Valerie Moran and will be trained by Gordon Elliott. La Bague Au Roi, a dual Grade 1 winner for Warren Greatrex, sold for next best price of £170,000. The 10-Y-O was purchased by Slaney River Stud owned by former Republic of Ireland striker Kevin Doyle, son of Wexford breeder Patrick Doyle.

Relegate, winner of the 2018 Champion Bumper at Cheltenham for Willie Mullins and Katie Walsh, has been retired to stud. She has been with trainer Colm Murphy since January 2020 for whom she had five runs without success.

The ink was hardly dry on last week’s column when jockey David Mullins announced his retirement from race riding at the young age of 24. Mullins rode Rule The World to victory in 2016 Grand National for Mouse Morris and Gigginstown House at the tender age of 19.

He rode nine more Grade 1 winners including Nicholls Canyon, Al Boum Photo, Faugheen and Kemboy. Mullins rode primarily for his champion trainer uncle Willie and father Tom, was last in action on Blackbow when finishing third at Naas on January 13th and rode 211 Irish winners.

He will stay in racing hopefully

by Tom Red

Enjoy D'allen and Conor Orr, yellow, with R'evelyn Pleasure and Robbie Power leading over the last.

in sales and will hopefully find another Court Maid whom he bought for €1,800 and has won approx. €180,000 in prize money.

Aidan O’Brien was fined £4,000 fine at a hearing into the confusion which surrounded the saddling of two of his runners, Mother Earth, and Snowfall, in last October’s Newmarket Grade 1 bet365 Fillies’ Mile. O’Brien was not in Newmarket but spotted the mix up

on a TV replay and contacted the British Horseracing Authority to alert them that the jockeys were on the wrong horses. Both jockeys were in similar colours and as they both carried the same and correct weight their placings were reversed on the record. There was no fault on the jockeys as it was O’Brien’s on-course staff, based in Britain because of the coronavirus pandemic, that saddled the horses incorrectly.

BUCCANEERS Rugby Football Club

Sevens’ star Jordan honoured again!

Congratulations to Jordan Conroy who has been named Ireland Sevens Player of the Year in the recent Guinness Rugby Writers Awards. This is the second season in succession that the Buccaneers speedster has won this highly coveted accolade.

The Tullamore man was the

top try scorer, with 28 touchdowns in the HSBC World Series, and was named in the World Series Dream Team.

Congrats too to Beibhinn Parsons from our neighbouring club in Ballinasloe, as she picked up the Women’s Player of the Year Award. The teenage winger scored three

tries in last season’s Women’s Six Nations tournament, her breakthrough campaign. She may have accumulated further tries too only for taking a break ahead of her Leaving Certificate examinations, but she will surely add to her tally whenever this pandemic passes and rugby resumes.

Henshaw impresses again Robbie Henshaw put in another impressive performance as Leinster snatched a 13-10 PRO14 victory over arch-rivals Munster at Thomond Park. In the closing stages of a keenly contested joust, the champions came up with a piece of magic to notch the winning score. Henshaw, as he had done regularly through the contest, made some hard yards in the leadup to Jordan Larmour’s try and was deservedly named in Ireland’s squad this week.

Meanwhile, Connacht’s home travails continue as they let a decent half-time lead slip, enabling Ospreys gain a rare away victory on Irish soil.

Jack Carty was rested for this encounter, but he, along with Finlay Bealham, was not included in Andy Farrell’s panel. However, hooker David Heffernan duly made the cut. Best of luck to Dave and Robbie in the forthcoming Six Nations Championship.

Pictured is Beibhinn Parsons, recipient of the Women’s Player of the Year Award.

32

Roscommon People Friday 29 January 2021

SnowyPeople

Two boys pictured playing and enjoying the recent snowfall in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

Nicole, Karina and Tomรกs Collins pictured out for a walk with mum Stephanie and grandma Bridie, Moyne. Picture: Mick McCormack

Barbara, Nicole and Oscar pictured enjoying the snow in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

Two boys pictured playing and enjoying the recent snowfall in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

Willie and Ryan Duignan pictured with Herbie, Ailish and Micheal Hebert in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack

Essential workers! Aidan and Ryan pictured driving their tractors through the snow. Picture: Mick McCormack

Liam Durcan, Andres Kolenkas and Adam Sluka pictured with their snowmen in Ballaghaderreen.

Nicole, Karina and Tomรกs Collins pictured while out on a brisk walk in Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Mick McCormack