29 October 2021 Roscommon People

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29 October 2021

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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I live in the countryside and I do my best to keep my property clean and tidy. I am fed up however of other road users destroying the public road with clay, muck etc. Surely there is a law prohibiting this practice?

Please advise me.

Provisions within the Roads Act 1993 address the prevention of damage to public roads and the protection of people who use them. While most landowners are careful when using public roads for agricultural activities, there may also be instances where roads are damaged through careless and unlawful activities.

It is an offence to allow any material, such as clay, slurry or fodder, onto a public road, where such material is, or could be a hazard to road users or interferes with the safe use or maintenance of the road.

Landowners are obliged to ensure that:a. The transport of winter fodder over public roads is on the basis that there is no alternative off-road means of access. b. Adequate measures are in place between gateways and storage locations to minimise the amount of clay that is carried onto the public road. c. Tyres of tractors, etc. are regularly washed down to ensure that soil is not carried onto the public road. d. Fodder, plastic or twines are not left on grass margins. e. Livestock are kept and fed an adequate distance from the road so that road drainage is not interfered with and slurry is prevented from flowing onto the public road. f. Any soil, fodder etc., which is deposited on the road is removed immediately. g. Vehicles are not parked for long periods on the hard shoulder / grass margins of the public road. Parking in this manner may cause damage to the public road and may also limit sight lines for roads users.

It is also an offence to deface, damage or dig up a public road without applying for, and receiving, prior permission of the County Council in the form of a Road Opening Licence. It should be noted that the public road extends from fence to fence and includes footpaths / grass verges and roadside drains.

Many farmers have no choice but to transport fodder on public roads and the vast majority do so carefully and considerately of other road users. If you have difficulty with a particular neighbour I would suggest that you politely mention your concerns and try to resolve matters amicably in the best interests of all.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Such queues of young people!

Such excitement! Such passion!

Wow! Such crowds!

Fab! Such scenes!

Yeah!

Great to see so many young people out, queuing to get in, desperate for good times again!

Yeah, it was quite a scene...

CYCLING ACCIDENT Mind you, when they did get in, it was chaotic inside!

If you were involved in a cycling I heard! accident Like a warcontact zone at times!

Byrne Carolan Really?

Cunningham Yeah, bodiesSolicitors everywhere!

Interesting!

So much eh...adrenaline...

Okay!

Pent-up emotions and all that...

I can imagine...

It was just remarkable. Those big queues of young people, the optimism, then when they got inside, the abandon of youth took over... bodies everywhere, emotions high, and A LOT of close contact!

Well, there probably shouldn’t have been...

I know, I know, but you can’t deny the passions of youth!

Mmnn...

Inevitably, there was some, shall we say, physical contact...

It must have been hard to control...

Yeah, a nightmare!

Still, it’s brilliant to see Copper Face Jacks open again...

Copper Face Jacks?

Yeah, the queues, the young people, the passion, the physical contact, the sense of a war zone, the challenge in controlling it all...

Oh no, I was talking about the County In-

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

termediate Football final, Faithleach’s v Dominic’s!

Oh, sorry!

(They pause out of slight embarrassment over the misunderstanding) Anyways, that was a scary weekend! All those horrendous frights coming one after the other! It was terrifying! Devils and...

Well, I know there were a few events last weekend, but Halloween is really this weekend...Sunday night!

No, I’m not talking about Halloween frights. I’m talking about the Manchester United defence...against Liverpool! Terri-

fying! So scary!

Oh, THAT! Yeah, a remarkable scoreline.

Manchester United 0 Liverpool 5. Incredible!

The Red Devils will bounce back, they have the tradition, the players, the money, the aura!

Yeah, but will Ole be there for it?

Is he STILL there?

(They both check their Twitter feeds to see if Ole is still in charge at Man Utd) So, my friend, are you clear on the nightclub conditions now?

It doesn’t really matter to me...I haven’t been in a nightclub since Boney M were at Number 1!

Oh come off it!

Okay, I am joking...ah they’re great fun admittedly...

Boney M? Do you know them?

No, NIGHTCLUBS! Let’s be honest with our readers, our nightclub days are long behind us, but we’ve both been known to slip into Rockford’s for a late drink once in a blue moon, even in latter years...

Yeah, yeah...very, very occasionally, and usually when we’re in company...sometimes after a night out you need a few golden oldies to finish the night off!

Yeah, golden oldies for golden oldies! Anyways, I’m finished with nightclubs...

NO! Never ever rule it out! There are rumours of an ‘Irish Night Special’ coming up!

Huh? It will suit you perfectly...first song on the playlist is The Bards...perfect for you!

Huh? THE OLDEST SWINGER IN TOWN!

What we liked…

Well done to eightyear-old Lucas Fox from Co. Down who has pledged to walk a million steps for charity! Lucas is planning to walk 280 miles from his home in Donaghadee to Co. Cork in about a six-week period. He’s raising funds for Vasculitis UK.

What we didn’t like…

Ongoing speculation that the country may be facing widespread power cuts this winter.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

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

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

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

PIC OF THE WEEK: Twins Myah and Kate Madden celebrating St Faithleach’s win on Sunday. Photo: Mick McCormack

Covid-19; Guidelines for nightclubs; Power cut threat; Manchester United’s woes; In GAA, the more radical proposal B (a league-based All-Ireland football championship) fails to get through Congress; In GAA locally, St Faithleach’s are County Intermediate Football champions after a ‘war of attrition’ with St Dominic’s...

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Warm tributes paid to ‘true gentleman’ Gerry Thompson Popular Ballyleague man served as President of Irish League of Credit Unions Warm tributes have been paid to former President of the Irish League of Credit Unions, Gerry Thompson, who passed away on Saturday last following a short illness.

Mr. Thompson of Culliaghy, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon was laid to rest on Tuesday following funeral mass at the Church of the Holy Rosary in Ballyleague.

The Board of Directors, Board Oversight Committee, staff, and volunteers of Roscommon Credit Union extended their sympathies to Mr. Thompson’s family including his beloved wife Martha and children Caoilfhionn, Cliodhna, Gráinne, and Cormac.

“We offer our deepest sympathies to his wife Martha and their family at this sad time,” it said.

“As a Director of Roscommon Credit Union, he derived most satisfaction from serving the people of Roscommon with enthusiasm and total dedication for many years. We were extremely proud when Gerry was elected by the national Credit Union movement as President of the Irish League of Credit Unions in April 2019.

“Gerry proved to be a more than worthy President and true friend to the movement during his reign, which was sadly cut short by the Covid-19 pandemic and the onset of his illness.

“Gerry’s love and commitment to the Credit Union was only surpassed by his love and dedication to his family, whom he spoke so often and lovingly about. His colleagues here in Roscommon and friends from around the country had the pleasure of meeting his first grandchild on the night we celebrated his appointment as President of the ILCU, a very proud time for Gerry himself.

“Gerry will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, a true gentleman with a love and commitment of the credit union movement. His belief in the power of cooperation was second to none. He had a great sense of humour, a quick with and was a charming man, who was most certainly in a League of his own”.

Mr. Thompson was deeply involved with St. Faithleach’s GAA Club in Ballyleague in a variety of different roles and the club also paid tribute to him this week.

The club described Mr. Thompson as “true club person who served with distinction for a number of years and whose legacy would be remembered for years to come”.

Tibohine NS pupils Charlotte O’Brien, Alexandra Lavin, Kaitlyn Kerrane and Sophie Hennessy pictured in their Halloween costumes on Thursday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Minister updates HAC on Sacred Heart Hospital Independent Councillor Valerie Byrne has said that she has received an update on progress on the new 50-bed unit at the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon.

Speaking this week, Cllr. Byrne said: “In a letter to the Hospital Action Committee in October 2016, Minister for Health Simon Harris outlined his commitment to a new Community Nursing Home at the Sacred Heart Hospital Roscommon by 2021. In 2016, the Minister’s letter stated that the Sacred Heart project was at appraisal stage, the first step in the process”.

Cllr. Byrne has confirmed that the design

stage for the works has now been completed, and the design stage is ready for signing off. The project will be submitted for planning permission in December 2021.

Our Lady’s Ward and St. Joseph’s Ward will be demolished gradually to allow for the new works. The rehabilitation unit and short stay will be closed for refurbishment and fire works will be completed in February 2022. Short stay in St. Catherine’s Ward will open in December 2021. The day care service that was closed due to Covid has been refurbished and will be reopening shortly for day patients.

Mr. Thompson served as “a highly efficient and effective club secretary” as well as club PRO and selector on the Intermediate championship winning side of 1992. He was also acting Chairperson for a time.

Speaking in the aftermath of the club’s Intermediate Football Championship success on Sunday last, manager Wally Burke said it was a bittersweet day for the club and expressed his sympathies to Mr. Thompson’s wife Martha and family.

Club captain Diarmuid Murtagh also paid tribute to both Gerry Thompson and another “great clubman”, Henry Kenny, who passed away in April of last year.

“When we (Roscommon) played in New York in 2016, I met Gerry in Times Square. He wasn’t just a great clubman, he followed the county everywhere,” he said.

Local Senator Eugene Murphy said Mr. Thompson had given passionately to his community, parish, and the Credit Union movement.

“His involvement with politics, including contesting a Local Election for Fianna Fáil and canvassing for me and the party in General Elections, is recognised and acknowledged greatly by the organisation.

“Most of all, Gerry was a strong family man;

he was so proud and always there for them.

I know that Martha, Caoilfhionn, Cliodhna, Gráinne and Cormac are suffering a terrible sense of loss right now, and I express my sincere sympathies to you all, as well as to Gerry’s brother and sisters and the extended Thompson family,” he concluded.

FIE to challenge latest Lough Funshinagh works Environmental group calls on Council CEO to resign

< DAN DOONER

Environmental group, Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) has called on Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins to resign and will this week bring a legal challenge against the local authority’s updated plans to drain water from Lough Funshinagh.

FIE has described the latest plans to drain the turlough as a “profound breach of trust” and said the works were “devoid of a valid legal basis”. The group said the local authority will face an order alleging contempt of court before the High Court this Friday.

The environmental group, which says it has “repeat-

edly expressed its sympathies to those affected by flooding”, claimed the initial proposed works, which were halted on August 25th, were in breach of European law, on the grounds that the project wasn’t subjected to the required environmental screening and assessment processes.

In a letter to Mr. Cummins last week, FIE’s solicitors said it was agreed to “cap” the “unuauthorised pipes”, and fill in any manholes already in the ground, to preserve them for any future operation.

The letter stated: “As is made clear in the documents published by Roscommon County Council, it is now proceeding to use the already laid pipe and the already constructed manholes. This is a

Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins

manifest breach of the Remediation Plan, which required the capping of the pipe and the manholes.

It is also a breach of the High Court Order on August 25th, a contempt of the Court and a profound breach of the trust upon which the settlement was reached”.

Part of an FIE statement released yesterday (Wednesday) stated: “The clear decision of

the CEO of Roscommon County Council to proceed with works utilising infrastructure which had been required to be rendered inoperable by a High Court Order is an extraordinary step for a public official to take”.

The group went on to describe Mr. Cummins’ position as “untenable” and called on him to resign.

It said it was calling on the Office of the Planning Regulator to intervene in the matter.

When contacted by the Roscommon People, Roscommon County Council confirmed that the matter would be addressed when it came before the High Court on Friday, and out of respect to the court, no further comment would be made.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor Recently I always considered Paddy Moloney, who died recently, to be a really great Irish man. Co-founder and ‘front man’ of the legendary musical group the Chieftains, he was a gifted musician, a charismatic and instantly likeable force of nature, and a wonderful ambassador for our country on the world stage. The world is poorer for the passing of this remarkable man.

Friday When I arrived at the beautiful Athlone Springs Hotel on Friday evening, the carpark was almost full, the bar was buzzing, and it was clear that the hotel was busy.

I’m sure many of the overnight guests and people attending events or passing through would have been intrigued if they knew that a small but highly distinguished grouping of GAA royalty was gathered only a few metres from the social hub of the hotel.

It was quite a privilege to be in their company. They had gathered for the launch of a book on GAA legends, compiled by Ballymurray native and long-time contributor

to the Roscommon People, Tom Curley.

One of the first people I met was Dr. Con Murphy, legendary Cork GAA figure. To his right was Trevor Giles, who won two senior All-Ireland football medals with Meath. His fellow county man, Martin O’Connell – who won three – was also present.

There were legends everywhere.

Sitting in front of me was Sligo hero Mickey Kearins, accompanied by his wife, Frances.

They were sharing a table with Roscommon’s Seamus Hayden (winner of multiple honours in his playing career) and his wife, Phil.

Sean Lowry, a member of the Offaly team that won the famous 1982 All-Ireland final – uniquely, he also won a Connacht title with Mayo – was present, as was Mick Curley, former Galway star and a leading referee in his day.

The presence of Kieran Duff, four-time Leinster title winner, inevitably brought one’s thoughts back to that unforgettable day in 1983 when Dublin’s ‘12 Apostles’ – less fondly labelled ‘The Dirty Dozen’ – sensationally won the Sam Maguire Cup, despite having

Pictured at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night were Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy, Ballymurray native Tom Curley (book coordinator), and Cork GAA legend Dr. Con Murphy. Pic: Mick McCormack

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

had three men sent off in a battle with Galway (who were reduced to 14 players). Duff was one of the Dublin men granted an early bath that day.

Ray Carolan (Cavan) and Manus Boyle (Donegal) were also there, as were a number of other well-known and revered GAA figures.

It was a lovely occasion. Unfortunately I had to leave after a couple of hours, but just to meet a few of these legends of the game was an honour. The reason they were there is because they are amongst a host of GAA stars who feature in Tom Curley’s book, a beautiful publication which I highly recommend (see more on page 22). * ‘Our Field of Dreams – Legendary Gaelic Footballers – Their Stories’ includes contributions by Roscommon’s Seamus Hayden, Tony Whyte, Gay Sheerin and Tony ‘Horse’ Regan.

Sunday It was a little bit like old times in Rooskey at the weekend, when I had occasion to actually visit a pub (two in fact) now that restrictions have been largely lifted and we are moving towards whatever version of normality you wish to call it!

Last time I was in Cox’s was last October (or thereabouts). On that occasion the place was into its seventh month of being closed. It was in darkness. I chatted to well-known proprietor Tommy for the Roscommon People and for an online report we were doing at the time on the plight of the pubs. Even by then – last October – the stress of the ongoing lockdown was getting to publicans.

It was great therefore to meet Tommy and his wife Teresa on Sunday night. The famous bar was buzzing again.

We also called into Reynolds’ pub (run by Peter, Marian and family) across the bridge and it too was absolutely flying, with a Halloween Party in full swing. It was great to see so many young people out and about, and in such a positive and friendly atmosphere. No doubt I’ll get to the other two pubs in Rooskey at some stage!

Supporters pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the Roscommon Intermediate Football final between St Faithleach’s and St Dominic’s. Photos: Mick McCormack

All weekend I am always amused at how managers and players in GAA and soccer (and probably other sports) talk up the opposition before games – seemingly terrified of admitting that their own team might actually win!

Someone like Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will be taking his team of superstar multimillionaires to a struggling club, where, more often than not, there will be blue-tinted carnage by the time the 90 minutes are up.

That won’t stop Pep (and he’s no different to other managers) assuring the media before the game that Norwich/Burnley/whoever it is will “pose problems from set pieces” – (or some such weak attempt to avoid talking up his own team).

I see they’re at it again locally this week, with Clann and Pearses

pretty desperate to avoid any impression that they might be favourites to win Sunday’s County Senior Football Final!

The ladies of Kilbride and Clann aren’t bucking the long established trend either, they too talking up the opposition for fear that any hostage to fortune might be given in the pre-match build-up.

This is of course all very understandable, but it can be tedious too. I’m not suggesting that GAA and soccer teams should start trash talking the opposition, although it would certainly be more entertaining. (“We’re gonna whup Clann!” or “When we’re finished with Pearses, they won’t know what hit them!”).

I guess it’s not going to happen.

Just once it would be nice to see a manager on TV saying something like “The match? Oh yeah, sure we’re playing great. Of course we expect to win!”

07

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

South Connacht Citizens Information Service resumes drop-in services South Connacht Citizens Information Service is delighted to announce the resumption of drop-in services at its offices from 1st November. Throughout the Covid19 pandemic, South Connacht Citizens Information Service has continued to deliver crucial information, advice and advocacy services to the public. However due to public health considerations, in-person services have been limited.

The resumption of drop-in services will help ensure that

our services are as accessible as possible to the public.

The public should be aware however that capacity may be limited at certain times due to necessary public health measures and staffing constraints. A full-time telephone and email service will continue to be available.

Citizens Information Services provide a free and confidential information, advice and advocacy service to public. You can get information and advice on areas such as Social Welfare entitle-

ments, Health, Family Matters, Housing, Employment Rights, Income Supports and much more.

You can speak confidentially with a locally-based Information Officer who can help with your query, by pro-

viding you with information and advice on the best steps to take as well as advocating on your behalf where appropriate.

You can call into Roscommon Citizens Centre, Unit 9, 1st Floor, Tower Block B,

West Business Park, Golf Links Road, Roscommon, F42 TD 98.

Drop-in services are available: Monday to Thursday from 10.00am to 1.00pm Friday from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm You can also contact our Roscommon office on 0818 07 6360 or by email on roscommon@citinfo.ie You can also call into Boyle Citizens Centre, 7 Elphin Street, Boyle, F52 WT 25

Drop-in services are available: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10.00am to 1.00pm. You can also contact our Boyle office on 0818 07 6330 or by email on boyle@ citinfo.ie You can also find information on your rights and entitlement on: www.citizensinformation.ie For out of office call times, the Citizens Information Phone Service: Call 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Applying for a student grant Question I just started college. Can I still apply for a student grant?

Answer You can apply for a student grant if you are taking an approved course and meet the income and residency criteria.

These include: • Your family’s means must be under the specified threshold for the previous tax year (2020). If you or your family have had a change of circumstances during the current tax year, your changed circumstances may be taken into account.

• You must have been ordinarily resident in Ireland for three of the last five years.

• You must be an Irish, UK, EU, EEA or Swiss national. You may also be considered for a grant if you have refugee status, subsidiary protection or leave to remain in Ireland.

Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) awards student grants.

You can use SUSI’s eligibility reckoner to see whether you meet the criteria for student grant funding. To apply for a student grant, you complete an application form online.

Applications to SUSI close at midnight on 4th November 2021.

If you are refused a grant or are approved a grant at a rate that you don’t think applies to your situation, you can appeal in writing to SUSI within 30 days of getting your decision.

If you are living in direct provision or are in the international protection system, you can apply for support under the Student Support Scheme for Asylum Seekers.

Know Your Rights is compiled by South Connacht Citizens Information Service, which provides a free and confidential information, advice and advocacy service to the public.

Tel: Roscommon Citizens Centre 0818 07 6360 or Boyle Citizens Information Centre 0818 07 6330 You can also get information and advice from: • The Citizens Information Phone Service: Call 0818 07 4000, Monday to Friday, 9am – 8pm • Our website – www.citizensinformation.ie

Our drop-in services are re-opening From the 1st November, you can drop into your local Citizens Information Service office to speak to an Information Officer at the times set out below. Please note that capacity may be limited due to necessary public health measures and staffing constraints.

Roscommon Citizens Centre, Unit 9, 1st Floor, Tower Block B, West Business Park, Golf Links Road, Roscommon, F42 TD 98. – Tel: 0818 07 6360 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

Boyle Citizens Centre, 7 Elphin Street, Boyle, F52 WT 25. Tel: 0818 07 6330 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 10am-1pm

PROVIDING YOU WITH FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, ADVICE AND ADVOCACY ON:

- Social Welfare - Health - Family Matters - Housing - Employment Rights - Income Supports Funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople Sponsored walk for RosFM this Saturday RosFM are holding a sponsored 5k Walk, ‘Walk for the Wireless’, this Saturday (30th) at 11 am.

The walk will start and finish at Casey’s roundabout with the route taking participants around Roscommon town.

Sponsorship cards are available but everyone who turns up on the day is very welcome to take part.

The funds raised will go towards the running costs of the station which is staffed almost entirely by volunteers.

RWN hosts successful event as part of National Reuse Month

As part of National Reuse Month, Roscommon Woman’s Network held a very successful event showcasing ‘upcycling projects’, and discussed ways for communities to live more sustainably.

Guest speakers on the day were RTÉ Radio One broadcaster Éanna Ni Lamhna and Roscommon Environmental Network Chairperson Michael Ewing.

Pictured at the event held at the Suck Valley Visitor Centre on Friday were: Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Roscommon Tidy Towns; John Larkin, Roscommon Tidy Towns; Liam Dempsey, Roscommon Tidy Towns; and guest speakers Michael Ewing and Éanna Ni Lamhna.

It’s ‘farcical’ that driving testers are being let go – Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said it is “farcical” that driving test examiners are currently being let go, despite a driving test waiting list of almost 100,000 people.

The local TD was reacting to recent media reports that examiners, who had supposedly been hired in 2017 and 2018, are set to be let go in the next few months.

“Reports in the media suggest that these testers are being let go so they don’t have to be given permanent contracts,” Deputy Fitzmaurice said.

“Instead, it is supposedly preferred to hire new temporary testers. If true, this is beyond belief – particularly given the number of people awaiting

to get a date to sit their full driving test.

“Recent figures indicate that over 66,000 applicants are still waiting on an invitation to sit the test, a further 11,600 had booked their test – while over 28,000 have applied for their test, but are not yet eligible to sit it. It doesn’t make sense that 40 new temporary testers would be hired and then trained to a certain level, only to replace testers who have been hired in recent years.

“Figures show that almost 117,000 tests have been offered, with about 10,000 less of those being conducted so far this year.

“It is not acceptable that young people have to wait months and months to attain their full driving

licence. Many of these applicants have job offers which depend on them being able to travel independently, and the backlog is forcing some of them to turn down these offers,” he concluded.

COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

PROJECT IRELAND 2040 Consultation Evening for “Roscommon Town Centre Putting the Spokes back into the Wheel” COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN Roscommon County Council has been successful in attracting further funding under the Urban Regeneration and Development ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Fund (URDF) as the next step in regenerating our County town. It follows on from the PROJECTand IRELAND redevelopment of the Market Square Main 2040 Street. The Project entitled “Putting the Spokes back into the Wheel” focuses on enhancing the linkages into the town centre from the edge of town so as to support and further Consultation Evening for “Roscommon Town Centre - Putting the Spokes back into the Wheel” develop Roscommon Town. It also includes for the development of a “rim” of Roscommon County Council has been successful in attractinggreater further funding under the cycling Urban cycle ways around the town centre to encourage walking and Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) as the nextproject step in regenerating ouratCounty opportunities within this compact town.

The is currently initialtown.

It follows on from the redevelopment of the Market Square and Main Street. The Project entitled design phase and we want to get your input into this exciting and innovative “Putting the Spokes back into the Wheel” focuses on enhancing the linkages into the town centre project. from the edge of town so as to support and further develop Roscommon Town. It also includes for

the development of a “rim” of cycle ways around the town centre to encourage greater walking and Roscommon County Council, in association with Kenny Lyons & Associates cycling opportunities within this compact town. The project is currently at initial design phase and Architects will hold public consultation meetings, on the project, as follows: we want to get your input into this exciting and innovative project.

Roscommon 8.00 County Council, in association with 3rd Kenny November Lyons & Associates2021 Architects will hold public pm, Wednesday consultation meetings, on the project, as follows:

– Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town

8.00 pm, Wednesday 3rd November 2021 – Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town

6.00 pm, Thursday 4th November 2021 – Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town

6.00 pm, Thursday 4th November 2021 - Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town

Please email regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie to book your place at either of the above events on or before Monday 1st November 2021.

Please email regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie to book your place at either Majella ofSigned: the above events onHunt or before Monday 1st November 2021.

Signed: -

Director of Services

Majella Áras an Chontae Hunt

Director of Services Áras an Chontae Roscommon Town

Roscommon Town

Pictured at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night were Frances and Mickey Kearins and Seamus Hayden. Pic: Mick McCormack

From George Best to Albert ...to Rockford’s and GAA! ‘Dukie’ puts pen to paper, launch soon Local journalist and broadcaster Seamus Duke launches his autobiography ‘Dukie...The Game of Life’ on Thursday, 11th of November in the Abbey Hotel at 8.30 pm.

Reflecting on the highs of his radio career –covering sport, current affairs and politics – Seamus also writes about his departure from Shannonside FM. As his media career has also spanned newspapers, most notably the Roscommon People for whom he continues to write, there are memories of life on the newspaper

beat. Included too are political highlights during his career in the media, including being up close and personal with former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds.

The book is also packed with nostalgic memories of great GAA teams. Seamus also reflects on growing up in Roscommon Town and happy memories of his involvement with Roscommon Gaels.

Also featured is his experience of attending major international sporting events, and the story behind how Seamus ended up drinking alone with...George Best.

The author’s love of music is also featured, as is the launch and development of the famous Rockford’s Nightclub, where

Seamus ‘spun the records’ during a golden social era in Roscommon Town.

‘Dukie: The Game of Life’ is an autobiography, which – through over 30 featured interviews – also takes readers on a fascinating journey through many sporting, political and social highs of the last four decades.

RTÉ presenter Damien O’Reilly, a lifelong friend of the author, will perform the launch. MC on the night will be Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy. Former Leitrim, Galway and Mayo senior football manager John O’Mahony will be a special guest.

Refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome to attend.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Rio Ferdinand @rioferdy5 What am I seeing…

-Halloween came early for Manchester United fans on Sunday as the (Liverpool) goal count mounted…

Kieran Cunningham @KCsixtyseven It’s not a sacking performance, it’s a quitting one.

-The Daily Star sportswriter makes an interesting point as the football world reacts to Manchester United’s abysmal defeat to Liverpool and the inevitable speculation that it might signal the end of the road for the Old Trafford club’s manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjær Seán O’Raghallaigh @RaghallaighJ Just bought a coffee in Ranelagh and they put flower petals in it. I miss Cavan

-From now on, all staff have been advised to ask: ‘Will that be with or without… flower petals?’

CianoGalwayGAA @CianoGaa The difference between the quiet, dignified approach towards achieving excellence v potential horrors of the blood & thunder circus roadshow guaranteed by the other candidate is not lost on me tonight. Well done GalwayGAA now how do I renew my season ticket?

-Almost certainly not a fan of Davy Fitz…

Roscommon Credit Union Member Appreciation Day

Claire and Mary (Ardcarne Garden Centre).

Internation Credit Union Day fell on Thursday, October 21st, and to celebrate, Roscommon Credit Union hosted a Member Appreciation Day, packed full of free virtual and in-person events.

Local historian Albert Siggins kickstarted the day with a guided historical tour of Roscommon town, with members of Roscommon Credit Union joining him.

Afterwards, members enjoyed a winter gardening demonstration at Ardcarne Garden Centre with Ardcarne staff members, Claire and Mary.

Members of Roscommon Credit Union pictured taking part in a winter gardening demonstration at Ardcarne Garden Centre with Claire and Mary (Ardcarne staff). Pic: Mick McCormack

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night:

Music in the Lounge with

SHANE MOORE Ole Gunnar Solskjær

Dawn Green heart Of the Tribes @Dawn_Galway Ya know what lads, if I was 18/19 and never been clubbing, never had a grads, a debs, or freshers ball because of covid, was locked down, got jabbed & played ball for almost 2 yrs, I’d be top of that queue since 9.30 too. Get off your pulpits, they’ve done good -That queue outside Copper Face Jacks continues to dominate the world’s news Henry Shefflin agenda...

Local historian Albert Siggins pictured with members of Roscommon Credit Union outside the courthouse during a guided historical tour of Roscommon town recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Hamrock’s

Fundraiser for Elphin Christmas Lights

The Elphin Christmas Lights Committee are getting ready for Christmas and are asking the local community to lend a helping hand. Every year, the committee tries to add something new to the display, while also dealing with any damage done to the elements from the previous year. Like everything else, most things have become very expensive, and with Covid, it has been very hard to raise funds. As such, the committee are appealing to your generosity to light up Elphin once again.

It is great that things are getting back to normal, and with this in mind, the committee is calling on local businesses, residences and the wider community to support the Christmas Lights fundraiser. Donations for the Elphin Christmas Lights fundraiser, by Tracy Beirne, can be made via GoFundMe.com.

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Nationwide to explore the life and times of Aleen Cust < DAN DOONER

Ms. Aleen Cust depicted in academic dress circa 1922.

RTÉ’s Nationwide programme will celebrate Ireland and the UK’s first female veterinary surgeon, Ms. Aleen Cust, in a programme which airs on Friday, November 5th on RTÉ One at 7 pm.

Born in Co. Tipperary, Aleen Cust was a pioneering Irish woman who studied veterinary science back in 1896 at the Veterinary College in Edinburgh. While she qualified in 1900, she was not permitted to enter the male dominated register until 1922. This was after the passing of the Sex Disqualification Act of 1919.

Presenter Mary Fanning travels to Athleague in Co. Roscommon to retrace Ms. Cust’s steps back to the time she practiced with a forward-thinking vet, William Byrne, and was accepted by the farmers of

the west of Ireland.

She meets Fiona Claffey MRCVS on Martin Mannion’s farm in Castlecoote, where Ms. Cust tended to cows and horses almost 122 years ago. Mr. Mannion proudly commends his forefathers for their acceptance and says: “They were before their time, we were never too slow in the west of Ireland, one hundred or so years ago…or indeed now!”

Roscommon historians, Albert Siggins and Jim Waldron, are also interviewed as well as author James Moran, all of whom have played their part in remembering this brave woman, who paved the way for the female vets of today.

Frank Whyte of Castlestrange House tells Nationwide how honoured he is to live in the house where this extraordinary woman practiced and lived.

Ms. Aleen Cust pictured with her dogs. Credit: Aleen Cust Memorial Society

Athleague’s Tidy Towns chairperson, Teresa Murray, speaks about a monument erected in the town’s park in memory of Aleen Cust, which has become a tourist attraction.

Mountbellew vet, Theresa Glynn from Lakeview Small Animal Surgery, re-enacts the journeys Ms. Cust would have taken on gravel roads around Roscommon on her Connemara pony in the dead of night, with no light and none of

the modern equipment available today.

The programme also looks at the devoted role Ms. Cust played with the Veterinary Corps in World War One, with the horses that were such an important part of that campaign.

Mary Fanning also travels back in time with Meta Osborne MRCVS, the first female President of the Irish Veterinary Council, at her Tinnakill House Stud.

The programme also

meets three west of Ireland Veterinary Surgeons: Donal Connolly, Brendan Gardiner, and Ascinta Kilroy, all based in Co. Galway, who have formed a memorial society to honour Aleen Cust’s trailblazing career.

It is their ambition now, to find her grave in Jamaica and commemorate her memory by placing a headstone on her final resting place.

The programme airs on RTÉ One on Friday, November 5th at 7 pm.

Roscommon musician named as one of BBC Radio’s ‘Top 5 artists’ of the week

Autumn in the Park This colourful bird’s eye photograph of autumn leaves at Loughnaneane Park was sent in by local photographer, Derek Fetherstone, who captured the beautiful scene with his drone recently.

Describing his photograph, Derek said: “Autumn is the second spring when the leaves turn to flowers and give us a beautiful display of colours. Happy Halloween!”

Ballintubber singer/songwriter Arlene (Arlene Feeley) has already gained local and national airplay with her song ‘Send Me Any Sign’, which was recorded and produced in Jealoustown Studios in Co. Meath.

Recently, the song even grabbed the attention of BBC presenter/producer, Gemma Bradley, who named Arlene as one of the Top 5 artists on her show in recent weeks.

Going on to speak about the track, Bradley states: “I just love the delivery on this, its great. I want to hear more from Arlene. I mean, what a soundtrack!”

You can follow Arlene on all social media platforms for all information on upcoming releases, gigs, and her clothing label Aquarius X Arlene.

Ballintubber singer/songwriter Arlene (Arlene Feeley).

‘Appropriate’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre

Galway actress and playwright Sarah-Jane Scott brings her internationally award-winning and critically acclaimed debut play ‘Appropriate’ to Roscommon Arts Centre on November 11th.

Appropriate is the darkly comic tale of Sorcha; queen bee of her small West of Ireland town and proud fiancé of ex-county hurling hero Marty. She loves weddings and has been dreaming of her big day since forever and

ever…However she has just fled her own reception. Has she gone mad? Or is this the first moment of clarity she has had in years?

Appropriate premiered at the Dublin Fringe festival in 2018 to critical acclaim and an award nomination. After being remounted in Bewley’s Café Theatre in 2019, Sarah-Jane selfproduced her Culture Ireland supported Edinburgh Fringe run in 2019; where it once again re-

ceived critical acclaim and was awarded a Lustrum Award for Excellence.

Guna Nua Theatre and Jill Murray produced a tour of Appropriate to New York in January 2020 for Origin Theatre’s first Irish Festival. The run at The New York Irish Centre sold out and Sarah-Jane was awarded ‘The Bairbre Dowling Spirit of The Festival Award’ on the closing evening. This autumn Appro-

priate tours to Sligo, Donegal, Mayo, Roscommon, Galway and Limerick.

“Engaging, witty and with shades of delicious darkness”…

“Sharp…warm and humorous”.

If you are looking for the perfect girl’s night out, then Appropriate is just the ticket.

Tickets are €18/16 and are on sale now from roscommonartscentre.ie and from box office on 090-6625824.

Congratulations Aisling!

Congratulations to Aisling Clarke from Ardconra, Woodbrook, Carrick-on-Shannon, who last year received a First Class Honours BA Irish Music and Dance from The Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick, and more recently graduated with an MA in Media Studies.

Aisling is a daughter of Pat and Elaine Clarke and attended Cootehall National School and Abbey Community College, Boyle. We wish Aisling all the best in her future endeavours.

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Local rugby players put United to shame!

Our man Frank on a day to forget for Manchester United supporters, fluctuating prizemoney in the National Lottery, worrying Covid-19 numbers, and a magnificent win for Connacht Rugby…

It’s Sunday evening, and after suffering one of the most embarrassing afternoons of my sporting life (watching an appalling Manchester United being humiliated by arch-rivals Liverpool), I find myself thinking back to yesterday’s All-Ireland Junior Cup rugby match.

The match was played in Creggs and saw two village teams, Creggs and Kilfeacle, composed

of unpaid amateur players, put everything on the line in an effort to get victory for their respective sides.

Played in atrocious weather conditions before a large, enthusiastic crowd (including quite a number from the west Tipperary village of Kilfeacle), both sides contrived to put on a game that was full of skill, effort, and wholehearted commitment. While the All-Ireland champions from Kilfeacle managed to come out on top by a single point (9-8), even their most partisan supporters would have to admit that they were extremely lucky to have escaped with a win.

Our lads were undoubtedly the better team, but sometimes luck doesn’t go your way. In the end, while the result was unkind to their superb effort, all of us who were lucky enough to see a marvellously competitive contest were very proud of the lads. They wore their club jerseys

with such pride and commitment – as did their Kilfeacle opponents.

On then to Sunday, when the vastly overpaid footballers who represent Manchester United turned in a performance that was exactly the opposite of that put in by both Kilfeacle and Creggs the previous day. There was no pride whatsoever in any aspect of their play, as they let their supposed fiercest rivals run rings around them. Not only should they have their very handsome wage packets withheld this week, they should also be fined substantially for shaming such a world-famous football club.

Not one of them even tried to run hard enough to put pressure on the admittedly very good Liverpool footballers, or to put in a hard but fair tackle. All we saw was spoiled petulance and several mean, late, and dirty

Feeling hard done by after Lotto win!

One of the great success stories of modern life in Ireland has been the National Lottery. Since 1988, nearly €5 billion has been raised for good causes in sport, recreation, health, welfare, arts, heritage, the Irish language and other areas, and it has also made millionaires of several Irish people.

Initially, there was just the Saturday night draw, but two years after the first launch, the Wednesday night draw was introduced. While there have been some tweaks in the time since, that’s more or less the way it still is today. As we all know, at the moment the big prize has not been claimed for months, and the top prize of more than €19 million has remained frozen for some time.

The one thing that still confuses me, however, is how they work out the amount of money that people who match five numbers get. A couple of years ago, I matched five, but even though other match-five winners in other draws around the same date won between €1,500 and €2,500, I only got €800. And so, I have always followed the fortunes of match-five winners.

In recent weeks, while the lotto prize has remained at €19 million, the match-five sums have fluctuated wildly. In the last eight draws, the figure has gone from €35,234 to €1,122. Other big winners got €29,273, but all the rest got around the €1,500 mark. I’m sure there is a

tackles, culminating in Paul Pogba’s cowardly two-footed challenge, which saw Naby Keita carried off and the pouting Frenchman being sent off. Overall, it was a pathetic, shambolic display.

As I said, our rugby team consists of amateur players who have to go to work the day after their game, but if any of them showed such a spineless side to them as the United superstars, I would never again go and support them. If the millions of fans around the world were to similarly show their feelings about this United team and this performance and withdraw their support, maybe the message might get through to them that no matter how talented you are, if you don’t back it up with hard work and effort, you are no use to any team. It won’t happen of course, but days like this shouldn’t happen either.

Finally for this week ...

good reason for such differences, but I won’t deny that I felt hard done by when my five numbers only netted €800. As it happens, last Saturday night’s match-fivers only got €1,122, while the previous Wednesday’s winners got €29,000. Plus, €900,000 was paid out on the Wednesday, while only €68,000 went to last Saturday’s winners.

I’m sure there is a logical explanation, but it will be of little consolation to all of those (myself included) who missed out on a bigger payday.

However, to make sure I don’t get disappointed again, I have decided to simply win the big one. If you never hear from me again, you will know I’ve done it!

Let’s hope we don’t pay for our return to ‘normal’ It’s now the evening of Bank Holiday Monday, and after being cancelled last year due to Covid-19, the Creggs Harvest Festival has made a welcome return. For a variety of reasons I have not been able to make an appearance at any of the social events, although I’m told that there were great crowds at all the dances and discos held over the weekend.

The general feeling was that it was great to have live entertainment back.

I did manage to make it to Creggs for the Fair Day, and it was great to see the stalls, the livestock, and in particular, the people, as life began to return to normal. Yet, I have to admit that it is with mixed feelings I reflect on the weekend when everything reopened after almost eighteen months of lockdown.

The scenes that unfolded outside nightclubs recently, with hundreds of unmasked clubbers queuing for entry to Coppers and

other late-night venues, causes concern, particularly as Covid numbers seem to be on a continual permanent rise. I do not understand how numbers are so high when so much of the population is vaccinated, or why there are so many in hospital with the virus.

However, a year and a half into the pandemic, it seems to me that things are actually getting worse – maybe we have simply stopped caring about it?

We are not taking as much care as we did when the virus first hit us.

Whatever the reason, we do not appear to be making as much headway as we should be.

The social side of me is delighted to see our local pubs full to the gills, live music and dancing back, happy faces all around, and people actually having the craic.

All I hope is that we don’t pay a big price for our return to normality.

After last weekend’s unfortunate loss to Munster (whose winning try should never have been allowed), I want to say hats off to the Connacht rugby team who absolutely hammered Ulster in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Ulster had won all four of their previous matches with bonuspoint victories, but they were well beaten by an inspired western outfit.

Giving up home advantage in the hope of attracting a good crowd to the Aviva, Connacht rewarded the almost 10,000-strong crowd with a brilliant, exhilarating display that yielded five excellent tries and a bonus-point win.

It really showed that just as in the Pat Lam era when Connacht got it all together, there is no more exciting team in European rugby.

I told you before about my experience of attending a Connacht v Leinster match in Donnybrook back in the seventies. Two Creggs men, my brother (The Rasher) and Jack ‘The Higher’ Cunningham, were on the team, and the game was watched by about 100 hardy souls, most of whom were relatives or friends of the players. Compare that to now, and it shows how far the game has come on in the intervening years. Professionalism has changed the rugby landscape so much over the last couple of decades, but the same qualities of skill, pride, courage, and commitment remain – and this Connacht side has it in abundance.

‘Till next week, bye for now

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€250k Elphin Fire Station upgrade to proceed soon – Murphy < DAN DOONER

A long-awaited €250,000 upgrade of Elphin Fire Station is set to get the go-ahead in the near future, according to Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy.

The local Senator said the upgrade had been confirmed by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien.

“These works are a significant investment in the north Roscommon town,” Senator Murphy said.

“The development was first

announced some time back during (then) Minister Michael Finneran’s tenure but is only now coming to fruition”.

Senator Murphy acknowledged the former Minister’s commitment to the project during his time in office and also paid tribute to Roscommon Chief Fire Officer John Keane “for his continuous work to make this project a success”.

“The Minister and his Department and Roscommon County Council have delivered and I expect work will proceed in the not too distant future,” Senator Murphy concluded.

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Independent councillor for the Boyle Municipal District, Tom Crosby.

Independent councillor for the Boyle Municipal District, Tom Crosby, has said it is “a disgrace” that there are still no Psychiatry of Later Life services available at the e-Mental Hub which was launched last year in Castlerea.

Speaking this week following recent confirmation that staff have yet to be installed at the facility, the Tarmonbarry-based councillor said: “The e-Mental Hub was opened last year and has already received €1.4 million to recruit a number of positions including a senior psychologist, a consultant psychologist,

a senior occupational therapist, and three other roles – crucially, these have yet to be filled”.

The Connect Mental Health Service for Children and Adolescents (CAMHS) is also experienced staffing issues and is currently running at a reduced capacity.

“This,” said Councillor Crosby, “is unsatisfactory, and frankly irresponsible, particularly at a time of rising suicide rates at the emergence of a pandemic. Mental health services for all ages is needed more than ever, and this facility needs to be opened immediately,” he concluded.

Email: sales@jamesflanagan.ie – www.jamesflanagan.ie

Ca rs Ca rs

Crosby: Lack of e-Hub services ‘a disgrace’

TULSK, ROSCOMMON. Tel. 071 9639944.

Ca rs

Tibohine NS pupils Lola Doris, Aoibheann O’Gara and Siofra Martin pictured dressed up for Halloween on Thursday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

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UNDER UNDER UNDER €20,000 €15,000 €10,000

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Are you caught in ‘the love trap’?

Their marriage was supposed to last forever, yet heartbreakingly, it ended up becoming a horrendous tragedy, one which captured the attention (and horror) of our entire nation.

Beautiful young French woman Anne Colomines met and eventually married handsome Brazilian national Renato Gehlen, a man she clearly believed to be her Prince Charming.

The pair settled down to married life at Dorset Square, in Dublin’s north inner city, which is, by coincidence, the area where I was born. However, it appears that it wasn’t long before the rot began to set into this union, with ‘beautiful, intelligent’ Anne desperately seek her freedom – a freedom she so richly deserved.

Shockingly, instead of allowing his wife to avail of an amicable split, Gehlen instead made her another statistic. By viciously murdering her, he added Anne’s name to an already horrifyingly long list of another 236 women who’ve died violently in this country between the years 1996 and 2020. Sixty-two per cent of these innocent people have been killed in their own homes, a place where they should have been safe, with, according to Women’s Aid, ‘one in every two’ being murdered by either ‘a current or a former male intimate partner’.

Last week, a jury at the Central

Criminal Court rejected Renato Gehlen’s claim that his wife’s fatal injuries had been self-inflicted, and instead unanimously convicted him of her 2017 murder, which occurred at the home they’d both shared. Mr. Justice Michael MacGrath handed down the mandatory life sentence.

Leaving an abusive relationship is never easy, which is why today, for a variety of reasons, many women who are reading this may possibly be feeling trapped and desperately unhappy and yet have decided the best option for them is to stay. I totally understand. There is the fear factor, the kids, the possible shame – ‘women don’t leave’ I was told – not to mention the potential financial ruin, with many of us (myself included) being left so broke by our bid for freedom, we literally lose the roof over our heads. Is it any wonder so many women chose to persevere and carry on? That being said, while I’m certain these women are perfectly capable of exercising sound judgement, I do worry that perhaps by being caught in what I call ‘the love trap’, they may be sacrificing their lives.

With that in mind, let me just say that those of you who are married will know that while a good, healthy, solid and mutually loving relationship will benefit our lives

French woman Anne Colomines. May she rest in peace.

and make us happy, a toxic one will erode our self-esteem, crippling us both emotionally and physically.

In fact, given the statistics from Women’s Aid, a toxic relationship

Halloween is an important part of our kids’ lives It’s Halloween, and, as – hopefully – vaccinations are continuing (although it appears cases of Covid are still on the rise), I’d bet that despite the myriad of wonderfully colourful decorations festooning the homes and gardens right across Roscommon, many parents are worried about allowing their kids to go ‘trick or treating’.

I’m not a Halloween fan – Christmas is the biggie for me. However, when my girls were young, because Halloween was a major event in their lives, I was the mother who went above and beyond to turn our house into what you’d call a ‘spooktacular scare-fest’.

Therefore, as I believe Halloween is a very important part of our chil-

dren’s lives – and let’s be honest, they’ve sacrificed enough during the pandemic – why not allow the little ones to enjoy their holiday by dressing up yourselves and chaperoning them on their trick or treating adventures!

Oh, and don’t forget to put your clocks back by one hour on Sunday!

may (as it did in Anne’s and so many other women’s situations) result in the violent loss of life at the hands of the cowardly abuser these women tried so desperately hard to leave.

Of course there are many, many men who can mutually accept that their relationship has come to an end.

On the other hand, there are men who simply cannot cope with being rejected. Therefore, can I (in my effort to help those who may be worried) offer a few pointers regarding an abuser’s personality traits.

They’ll be bitter, they’ll be twisted, and they’ll display narcissistic tendencies. They will also manipulate you in every way possible in order to get you to do what they want. In fact, scarily, if you stand up for yourself, these individuals may potentially (as we’ve seen by the 236 other incidences occurring so far in this country), react so violently, they’ll lash out and could murder you. That means, not only does this individual steal a precious life and make the person into another statistic, he’ll also rob parents of their beautiful daughter, and innocent little children of their beloved mother.

Leaving a toxic relationship can be one of the most difficult things anyone will ever do. It can also be one of the most liberating. If you need help, advice, support, or just a friendly ear, please call the Women’s Aid national Freephone helpline on 1800-341900. If you believe you’re in danger, dial 999 without delay.

Huge thanks to the kind people of Roscommon!

As a non-profit animal welfare charity, donations, both financial and foodbased, are essential to the survival of TNR South Roscommon in order for them to save the lives of the beautiful feral cats and their kittens that so desperately need their help.

To that end, on behalf of my good pal and fellow Dub Orla Hanley who set up the TNR charity, the volunteers, and our furry friends who’ve been spayed/neutered and saved, I’d like to express a massive thank you for your very generous support. It’s clear that the hugely decent people of Roscommon, despite being concerned about Covid and the impact it’s having on their lives, can still find it in their hearts to help animals in need, and in this case, homeless and orphaned cats and kittens.

May God bless each and every one of you who have donated to the TNR food bins located in Fleming’s SuperValu in Roscommon town and Heneghan’s SuperValu in Glenamaddy recently. Words alone cannot

express both the gratitude and relief currently being felt by animal welfare advocates who worry about, care for and rescue these beautiful souls.

A very grateful Orla would like to express “a zillion thanks to the very kind people who left food in our food bin in Heneghan’s SuperValu in Glenamaddy, and our other food bin in Fleming’s SuperValu, Roscommon town.

Thank you to the management of both of these stores for so kindly allowing this facility”.

One of the greatest risks to feral/ homeless/orphaned cats this winter will be a lack of sustenance and warmth. However, due to your kindness and the kindness of the management and staff of these family-run supermarkets, you have given these needy little ones the precious gift of food. Your goodwill is very much appreciated and long may it continue. As someone who has committed my life to animal welfare, can I say that from the bottom of my heart, you’re all legends.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Wide range of services available at Vita House!

Upcoming events at Vita House, Roscommon…

There is a wide range of events taking place at Vita House over the coming months: Starting on November 17th at 7.30 pm: 6-week Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with Dr. Brian McClean. Cost: €60.

Starting on November 1st at 7.30 pm, Paula Sharkey will lead a 6-week Gentle Chair Yoga class. In addition to improving your quality of life, chair yoga has many benefits such as decreasing stress, blood pressure, anxiety, inflammation and chronic pain.

Cost: €50.

On Sunday, December 12th, we will host our very

own Santa’s Grotto experience. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pay a visit and there will be entertainment, refreshments and a present for every child.

This is an experience not to be missed. Cost: €12 per child, adults and under 12 months go free (Maximum 2 adults per booking).

Beginning in January 2022, new to Vita House, we are engaging men in their physical and mental health including a monthly peer support group, activity days out (hiking etc.) and hosting guest speakers on a range of topics.

Our Roscommon Can-

Vita House

cer Support services run a variety of well-being programmes including yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, arts and crafts and clay modelling. The services also feature holistic therapies such as reiki, reflexology and Body Talk along with support services such as a monthly coffee morning, mindful art for children and afternoon tea experiences.

These services are free of charge and are available for people who have been diagnosed with cancer but are also open to children or family members of the diagnosed person.

South Roscommon Family Resource Centre are delighted to announce the return of the parent and toddler group on Tuesday mornings along with a new Women’s Space.

Women’s Space provides the opportunity for women to meet up, relax and meet new people whilst also partaking in an activity. Activities include Pilates and clay pottery but can be decided by the group themselves based on interests.

Contact Vita House on 090-6625898 for more information.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Classes

Gentle Chair Yoga

Holistic therapies

Parent and Toddler Group

It has been a very difficult year for people and the effects of Covid-19 lockdowns have been felt in almost every household, every school and indeed every family.

Here at Vita House, on Abbey Street, Roscommon, we are only too aware of the struggles our communities have faced and have used their feedback to adapt and add to our programmes and activities in order to meet their needs.

Our counselling and psychotherapy services run in person or online and focus on supporting good mental health and well-being. Vita House has highly-qualified professional psychotherapists who are skilled in working with a wide and varied range of presenting issues, meeting the needs of families, children, young people and individual adults. Therapists are available Monday to Friday, throughout the day and evenings.

All training courses and

workshops can be attended in person or online.

We have also added new technology which allows participants to be in the room for workshops and allows those participating from home to enjoy the full classroom experience. Cameras and a new speaker system will allow Vita House to bring the classroom to you.

Here at Vita House, we

are continually trying to adapt and run courses that interest the people of our community. However, we are always open to suggestions so if you have an area of interest or service/ hobby you would like to see at our centre, please get in touch. For more information on any of the upcoming events at Vita House, please contact 0906625898.

Counselling/ Psychotherapy Vita House’s counselling service focuses on

mindful art

For children and adults Art therapy connects the imagination to the body and allows the expression of feelings that you can't get express in words Time and dates TBC

MENS PEER SUPPORT

Engaging men in physical and mental health Includes monthy support groups, activity days and guest speakers on a range of topics.

what would you like?

Pilates, mindful movement, inner child workshop, grief and loss, social groups?

Phone to express interest

supporting good mental health and wellbeing. We have highly qualified professional Psychotherapists who are skilled in working with a wide and varied range of presenting issues, meeting the needs of families, children, young people and individual adults. Available Monday to Friday, day and evenings.

CBT This 6 week course with DR BRIAN MC CLEAN . This course is not just about “thinking positively”. It’s about becoming more aware of automatic thoughts, which can become distorted and lead to anxiety and depression.

17th November 7.30 pm

CHAIR YOGA A six week Gentle Chair Yoga with Paula Sharkey THURSDAY 1ST NOV AT 7.30PM

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ALL OUR SERVICES CONTACT 0906625898 info@vitahouse.org or find us on FB or WEB

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Who will admit that the nation’s energy policy is a shambles?

At 7 am on the morning of the 11th day of December in 2020 I stood in the cold and dark looking out over the river in Shannonbridge – waiting for the phone call to go on the radio and for a sunrise to emerge from the gloom in the local area.

This was the final day of operations for Shannonbridge power station – built by the state in 1965 and one of several electricity generating units developed all over the midlands for one very good reason – to create and sustain economic development and employment in one of the most barren stretches of our country.

For six decades these peat- and sod-burning power stations in Shannonbridge and Lanesborough had given very decent jobs to the people of Roscommon, Offaly, Longford and Roscommon, but in the course of just about ten days, both were to be closed down and the workers made redundant.

I remember that morning’s edition of Morning Ireland very well. I was in Shannonbridge to speak to former staff members and the local community about the impending closures. Like everyone else in the midlands, I was blue in the face listening to the experts telling us that fossil fuels had to go, that the train for decarbonisation was coming through and could not be stopped. We all knew very well the toll that the burning of fossil fuels was causing and the undeniable need for decarbonisation in our world.

We didn’t really need to listen to speakers at an eco-conference in Glasgow to realise it, but it was the immediate backdrop to the closures that was on my mind that day.

The ten days leading up the closure had been a tortuous time for EirGrid – the state agency responsible for overseeing our national energy supplies. The system to keep the lights on was already under threat and they had issued a severe warning that the country may see a number of power outages throughout the winter after the peat plants had shut down. Those words came after the all-time record demand for power, set in 2010, has been broken twice in the same week and the system went to amber – within hours of knocking out the whole country with power cuts.

In the end these crisis moments came and went largely because Eirgrid and the ESB were able to reopen other power stations that had been closed or shut down for service or repairs. But there was I on Morning Ireland listening to appeal after appeal for the lifetime of the two existing midlands power stations to be extended by even just a couple of years in a bid to ensure that the lights did not go out.

The message coming back from those in authority was that there was no need to extend the lifetime of the peatburning units. ‘Fossil fuels must go’ was the cheerleaders’ motto and there could be no “fooling ourselves” in Shannonbridge or Lanesborough that keeping those two small power stations online would really help solve the problem facing the country. Therefore, the stations were wound down, even though thousands of tonnes of peat lay out on the bog, already having been harvested and stockpiled.

The gates were closed and the locals were effectively told ‘move on’ and ‘nothing to see’ as the era came to an end.

The problem was the situation was even more serious than anybody knew that day – and the scenario affecting the nation’s critical energy supplies was about to get even worse in the next 10 months.

In the last few weeks the nation has woken up to the reality of just how bad things are. We have now been told that the state faces the reality of keeping the coal and oil-burn-

Lanesborough Power Station. For six decades the power stations in Shannonbridge and Lanesborough had given very decent jobs to the people of Roscommon, Offaly, Longford and Roscommon.

“

ing electricity plants we still have operating well beyond their scheduled closing dates to avoid power cuts. We’re told that all sorts of temporary solutions are going to be needed to keep the lights on in the years ahead.

In September, EirGrid warned us that that rising demand and power plant closures could leave the country with an energy shortfall of 1,050 megawatts (MW), one-fifth of its peak requirements, by 2025. This is incredibly serious for industry, but when they told us that in a bid to head off any crisis, the energy watchdog – the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities – is actually in talks with the owners of these gas- and oil-burning electricity generators about keeping them open well beyond the scheduled closing dates in 2023 and 2025, you will forgive me if I displayed a wry smile.

The ‘saviours’ of the nation’s power problems are of course not running on fresh air. The two stations that are now to be kept going much longer include two of the country’s highest carbon-emitting power plants, the ESB’s facility in Moneypoint, Co. Clare, which burns millions of tonnes of coal and produces up to 800MW of electricity, twice the capacity of most gas generators, and Scottish Southern Energy’s old 600MW Tarbert unit, which burns millions of gallons of oil.

I have to admit I looked at the statement from the regulator with some amusement. It stated that the intention will be “to extend the operation of the older, more carbonintensive units” before admitting that closing some of the other older generators between 2023 and 2025 could give rise to “significant risks to system security” as replacement electricity plants may not be ready on time.

This situation now facing the nation and its energy sup-

The truth is that after closing our two peat-burning stations, the fuels that are to burned to operate both Moneypoint and Tarbert will now emit more than twice the carbon produced by natural gas in this country.

plies would actually be funny if it were not so serious. Everybody has long admitted that the power stations closed at Shannonbridge and Lanesborough were well short of their lifetime projected use and could have operated for at least another 8-10 years –yet here we have a new scenario where Tarbert in Kerry is due to close in 2023, while Moneypoint is scheduled to shut two years later and – the best part if you’re really interested in the decarbonbonisation agenda – is that extending their lifetimes of both of these will most definitely put paid to Government efforts to cut carbon emissions by seven per cent a year between now and 2030.

The truth is that after closing our two peat-burning stations, the fuels that are to burned to operate both Moneypoint and Tarbert will now emit more than twice the carbon produced by natural gas in this country. On top of that, the experts who know something about energy costs worldwide insist that that using coal and oil could drive up electricity charges, depending on what happens to the world market demand and the possibility of even further spiralling carbon taxes.

All of which brings me back to the bridge in Shannonbridge and that cool and dark December morning when the plug was pulled last year – and leaves me with four very serious questions for somebody with responsibility to answer: 1) Did anybody really consider the short to medium term implications of taking down two relatively new power plants when the national grid was already struggling last year? B) Notwithstanding the pressing concerns over global warming and much more, were the decisionmakers blinded in their race towards the elimination of fossil fuels here in the midlands and the mad drive towards decarbonisation to the point where they didn’t actually see the reality of what was coming down the line? c) Isn’t what is happening totally hypocritical by the policy makers (burning twice as much coal instead of peat)? and d) Has anybody in authority the courage to stand up now and admit we actually made a mistake and we really do need these two power stations back in production with biomass and peat for at least a few more years until we can again stabilise the nation’s energy needs?

Let’s wait and see if anyone is brave enough to admit it.

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople ADVERTORIAL

The Abbey Hotel – home of fine dining in County Roscommon ...

Experience the culinary delights of the multi-award winning chefs at the four-star Abbey Hotel Roscommon – in a timeless, relaxed atmosphere.

County winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel Restaurant Award 2019, the four-star Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes, prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce.

This all combines to make the Abbey Hotel the perfect setting for dining in Roscommon, whether for business or pleasure. The hotel offers an extensive seasonal Bar Food Menu for those wishing for a less formal experience.

Lounge food is served daily from 4.30 pm to 9 pm, and afternoon tea is available at a

cost of €25 per person with prior booking essential. There is also a takeaway afternoon tea option.

With Covid restrictions, all those wishing to dine in the lounge and restaurant area must pre-book.

We also have a new pizza menu available to eat in or take out.

After dinner, guests can relax by the open fire in the luxurious, newly-refurbished lounge areas or in

the Abbey Hotel Bar. There is an extensive drinks and ‘Wines of the World’ menu to choose from, as well as a range of cocktails, including the RAI award-winning ‘Apple of my eye’ Martini.

On Sundays, carvery lunch is served from 12 pm to 4 pm. We also serve a fourcourse lunch menu in our award-winning restaurant. Dinner is served from 6 pm to 9 pm each evening,

with seasonal bar food served from 4.30 pm to 9 pm daily. Samples of our menus are on our website.

Special occasion menus are available for dinner dances, gala balls, christenings, birthday parties, communions, confirmation, and retirement parties.

To enquire about booking an event, simply call 0906626240 or email restaurant@

Cllr Kelly seeks funding for local footbridges Independent councillor Emer Kelly has called for funding to be made available for the repair of two footbridges in the

south Roscommon area.

The bridges, which are located at Cloondara, Mount Talbot and Ballyforan, have fallen into

a state of disrepair over recent years.

Cllr. Kelly said: “It is disappointing to see these bridges become

Two bridges, located at Cloondara, Mount Talbot and Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon, have fallen into a state of disrepair over recent years.

dilapidated over recent years. Both bridges have been closed to the public as health and safety precautions.

“The bridge at Cloondara has completely fallen into the River Suck over recent weeks and the wooden planks have had to be partially removed.

“Local people and tourists have used these bridges as amenities and forms of transport for many years and it would be a shame to see them fall beyond repair”.

Cllr. Kelly has raised this issue with Roscommon County Council who are seeking funding for the footbridge at Cloondara. Roscommon County Council Heritage Office is seeking grant aid for the repair of the bridge at Ballyforan, which is included on the List of Protected Structures for County Roscommon and the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage.

Cllr. Kelly said she welcomes this news and hopes funding can be made available soon.

abbeyhotel.ie Gift vouchers are available to purchase on abbeyhotel.ie or direct from hotel reception. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Calling all Roscommoners!

Nominations now open for awards recognising volunteers and community organisations The Roscommon Volunteer Centre are delighted to announce that they will be hosting this year’s Roscommon Volunteer Awards. This event allows the public to nominate outstanding volunteers and community organisations who have shown their dedication to making Roscommon a vibrant and thriving county in 2021.

The awards recognise the immense contribution volunteers and community organisations make to towns and villages across Roscommon, and the public are being called upon to nominate people and organisations that make a difference through volunteering.

The awards are open to individuals of all ages who volunteer in County Roscommon and all community-based organisation that operate within the county. Roscommon Volunteer Centre invites the public to consider nominating a volunteer or a community group for their outstanding contribution under these seven award areas: • Active Aging Volunteer of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Arts and Culture Champion of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Environmental Sustainability Champion of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Volunteer of the Year (Volunteer Category) • Community Involvement Sports Club of the Year (Organisation Category) • COVID-19 Community Response Award (Organisation Category) • Social Inclusion Community Initiative (Organisation Category) Each person nominated will receive a special thank you card from Roscommon Volunteer Centre. Nominations are currently open and will run for the month of October. More information about each category and about submitting a nomination can be found on volunteerroscommon.ie, or by contacting Shannette Budhai, Manager on 089 2199930 or at manager@volunteerroscommon.ie.

This year’s awards will culminate in an in-person awards ceremony, which will be held at The Abbey Hotel on November 26th, subject to public health guidelines at the time.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Roscommon emigration to USA in 1880s inspired Jack’s book The story of how his great-grandfather emigrated to the USA from Roscommon in the 1880s inspired Ballinasloe-born entrepreneur Jack Murray to write a new business book about the art of storytelling.

The book, entitled, ‘The Magic Slice – How to Master the Art of Storytelling for Business’, is driven by real-life stories and case studies. It acts as a clarion call for anyone who needs to find their own ‘Magic Slice’ – that unique place where what you want to say is exactly what your audience wants to hear.

Murray (48) is a native of Ballinasloe and the son of Noreen Murray and the late Joe Murray of the well-known farm supplies business. He dedicated the book to his late father.

“From a very early age, Dad lit the story spark in me. Growing up in the shop in Ballinasloe was a great way to understand the power of having a good story to face the public every day, and there were few better storytellers than my Dad,” he said.

Murray says this book and his career in storytelling were inspired by a story his father told him as a child: “As children, we were often told about our great-grandfather John Murray.

He was one of nine children struggling to survive on a small

TAKE A BREAK It’s been a GOOD week for...

Copper Face Jacks and other nightclubs, with such venues finally being allowed to reopen, albeit amidst some disquiet over guidelines, with the new and traditional media’s obsession with the former venue ensuring mind-boggling levels of publicity for the feted ‘Coppers’…

The footballers of St Faithleach’s, who edged a chaotic Roscommon Intermediate Football final (report in our sports section), defeating St Dominic’s after extra-time to be crowned county champions and therefore promoted to the senior ranks Galway hurling fans, with the appointment of ‘King Henry’ – also known as Henry Shefflin – as new manager of their county team, the highly respected Kilkenny legend getting the nod over the more colourful (but sometimes controversial) Davy Fitzgerald

The author, Jack Murray.

29-acre farm in Roscommon in the 1880s. At 29 years of age, he left for America to make enough money to save the family farm. He returned some years later with an idea to start a business as a general merchant in the town – a business that is still thriving today and run by my mother and brother.

That story has fascinated me all my life. It guided me towards a career helping others to tell their story and inspired me to write this book”.

Key aspects of the book include learning to apply the ‘Six-Step Magic Slice Process’ where the stories you tell resonate perfectly with your audiences and get them to act in a way that will drive your success. The book also delves into how to lock in creativity and use it every day, discovering the science behind storytelling, and walking step by step through the process of coming up with a story idea, applying key story elements, and structuring your story to give it impact. The book will also highlight various case studies and examples from

It’s been a BAD week for...

Manchester United and their supporters, with a crushing 5-0 defeat at home to Liverpool stunning everyone associated with the club – and neutrals alike – and leading to intense speculation about the future of manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær Advocates of radical change in the GAA, with the more ambitious plans for a restructured All-Ireland football championship failing to get through Congress, this time at least…

Fans of Friends, and the family of the late James Michael Tyler, following the much-lamented death of the actor who played Gunther in the sit-com series which is now enjoying renewed worldwide popularity 17 years after the last episode was broadcast

John Murray and his mother, Catherine.

Hiut Denim, Patagonia, and Dubarry Shoes.

Murray works as an entrepreneur, story consultant, speaker, and author. As the CEO of both MediaHQ (a media contacts database and press release distribution

tool) and the storytelling agency All Good Tales, he helps companies define their storytelling strategies, train their staff as storytellers, and share their stories through innovative technology. Today, he lives in Dublin with his

wife Alison, his daughters Matilda and Gwen, and a dog called Maxi Lopez.

‘The Magic Slice – How to Master the Art of Storytelling for Business’ by Jack Murray is available for purchase worldwide via Amazon.

“

The things people say…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

Julia Roberts (American actress, turns 54 on Thursday)

Bill Gates (American business magnate and co-founder of Microsoft, turns 66 on Thursday)

“It was a war of attrition. There was definitely a fear factor at the start, but I don’t think people probably realise how bad conditions were. There were serious hits out there. The quality mightn’t have been great but there was plenty of excitement, that’s for sure. It was dour...finals are for winning though, and that’s what we’ve done”

Tremane supporters Adrenna, Ciara and Evie pictured at the recent County Senior Hurling Final. Photo: Mick McCormack

-St Faithleach’s manager Wally Burke reflects on his team’s victory in the County Intermediate Football Final (against St Dominic’s)

Winona Ryder (American actress, turns 50 on Friday)

Willow Smith (American actress and singer, turns 21 on Sunday)

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Claire’s concern on broadband delays Sinn Féin spokesperson for Rural Development, Claire Kerrane TD, has said the Government must be held accountable for ongoing delays to the rollout of the National Broadband Plan (NBP) to rural communities.

This comes on the heels of Government officials and National Broadband Ireland confirming in recent days that just 17,000 premises have been completed this year to date.

“Government officials advised

that the company implementing the NBP, National Broadband Ireland, has completed just 17,000 installations so far this year,” she said.

“Their target for 2021 was 115,000, yet this week it was confirmed that the revised estimate for the end of this year is now 60,000 – just half of the initial milestone target.

“Yet again, we are hearing that workers and families in rural areas will be left waiting for

broadband, and it seems there are many areas which will be waiting for quite some time.

“Households and businesses in rural areas need reliable broadband for their day-to-day lives.

Accelerated broadband rollout for rural communities is not too much to ask for in this day and age.

“We need to see Government accountability for broadband rollout in rural communities and we need to see it now”.

Now providing an Outreach Service in Roscommon The Athlone (Midland) Rape Crisis Centre provides a free and confidential counselling service to clients from the age of 14 years, who have suffered the trauma of sexual violence of any kind. l Sessions are by appointment. l Our counsellors are professionally

qualified and accredited.

l We are now providing an

outreach service in Roscommon.

For appointment or if you need support ring freephone 1800 306 600

Happy Halloween!

Tibohine NS pupils Vinnie Moorehead, Lee Moorehead, Sean Corcoran, Theo Grant and Harry Callaghan pictured in their costumes on Thursday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

€140k to enhance existing local walks Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, recently announced €3.5 million in funding to support 189 outdoor projects across the country including €140,000 for projects in Roscommon.

The funding, under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) and in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, is aimed at enhancing unique natural amenities and supporting rural Ireland as a destination for adventure tourism. €139,406 has been allocated to support local initiatives in Monksland, Lecarrow, Portrunny, Kilteevan, Castlerea, Ballinlough, Gortaganny, Boyle, Ballyfarnon and Arigna.

Welcoming the announcement, Independent TD Denis Naughten said the funding would

further enhance facilities for local families, tourists, and visitors as well as making County Roscommon a more attractive place to live and work.

“This investment will not only improve accessibility for a broad range of walking routes but also allow a far greater number of people of varying mobilities to enjoy the work of these local community groups,” he said.

Local Minister of State Frank Feighan said funding of €50,000 would enhance projects in north Roscommon. “€20,000 will go to the development of a footpath/cycle track at Cavetown Lake Walk in Boyle, while the Lake O’Flynn Bog Walk in Ballinlough will receive €20,000 for a new walkway. €16,727 will go towards the repair and enhancement of

The Miners’ Way and Historical Trail in Arigna, Co. Roscommon.

“During the Covid-19 lockdown, I along with others, witnessed a newfound appreciation for our great outdoors with so many discovering and most importantly using our local walking amenities,” he said.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said a number of exciting projects will benefit including Judy’s Harbour at Lecarrow, Tarmon Bog Road Walk and a 2.5km walk linking Portrunny Bay with Clooncagh.

“Furthermore, €20,000 is being allocated for mapping of trails, cycleways, waterways and points of interest in County Roscommon, which will be a great aid for recreational tourism”.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Let food be your medicine – and medicine be your food < GERRY BROWNE, V.S. (RETIRED)

“Let food be your medicine, and medicine be your food” – these are the words of Hippocrates, the Greek philosopher and physician who lived 400 years BC, and who is regarded as the father of western medicine.

During my career in veterinary practice, I came to recognise patterns of disease outbreaks in farm and domestic animal populations in my area. I came to realise the utmost importance of those words with regard to animal health. I dealt with the farm animals in my area, mostly cattle and sheep, but also cats, dogs and horses. The different animal species have different dietary requirements to suit the way they evolved to digest different food resources. Herbivores like cattle and sheep are vegetarian, while cats and dogs eat mostly meat. Humans evolved to eat a variety of foods; seeds, grains, root and leaf vegetables and also meat and dairy products.

A balanced wholesome diet, replete with all the vitamins and minerals needed for growth, energy and immune status, is the bedrock on which we stand against the numerous challenges to our health. Currently, Covid-19 is getting all the attention, with hygiene and vaccination being the main focus of government attempts to control this threat. Other equally if not more important factors are being largely ignored.

All life evolved from germs.

Our skin, respiratory and digestive tracts are lined with germs.

When this population (known as our microbiota) is healthy and balanced, it is a vital part of our immune system and will ward off germs that could harm us.

The health of this population depends on our lifestyle and diet.

If we look after these friendly germs, they will look after us.

Modern medical practice has for decades concentrated on fighting the symptoms of disease and has in many cases neglected to address the root causes. We

“

There is much talk of fake news of late. It is time we dealt with the problem of fake food and the massive advertising behind it

newsbriefs Roscommon Girl Guides return Roscommon Girl Guides are returning with meetings starting up again for Ladybirds, Brownies, Girl Guides and the senior branch.

Ladybirds (aged 5-7) will return on Mondays, and Brownies (aged 7-10), Girl Guides (aged 10-14) and the senior branch (aged 14+) will return on Wednesdays.

New members (be it girls, leaders or helpers) are all welcome.

For further information, contact Mary on 087-2854769 or email rosmotegirlguides@gmail.com.

CCG are back at JJ Harlow’s CCG will be back for their first official gig in JJ Harlow’s, The Square, Roscommon on Sunday evening, October 31st, at 7 pm in the middle bar.

The three local boys – Conor Harkin, Ciaran Ó Cuinneagáin, and Gary O’Reilly – are back to entertain for a couple of hours. So, if you have missed the tunes, come along and join us for the evening!

Service of Thanksgiving at St Coman’s Church A Service of Thanksgiving will take place for Harvest in St. Coman’s Church of Ireland (Henry Street, Roscommon) on Sunday, October 31st, at 3 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Supports at Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre

seem to have forgotten the dietary advice of Hippocrates even though newly qualified doctors still take the Hippocratic Oath.

Given the current pandemic, I feel that the different responses of people to Covid-19 challenge has to do with their diet and lifestyle and in some cases their constitutional ability to withstand challenge. Response to exposure to the virus ranges from inapparent infection, to mild, and right through to severe life-threatening illness.

What factors are in play that give the different responses?

With regard to the human herd Covid-19 is now endemic in the population. That means that we are all going to be exposed sooner or later. So how do we best protect ourselves?

“Breeding, Feeding and Stress management” are the factors I advised farmers to look to in order to have a healthy herd. By ‘breeding’, I want to call attention to the fact that since as humans we are stuck with our genetic inheritance, it behoves each individual to adapt to their constitutional requirement (for example, some people need a gluten-free diet).

In terms of ‘feeding’, as a population our diet is nutrient poor in many cases. The recent publication by ‘Check Out Magazine’ of the top 100 brands sold in the Irish grocery trade is very instructive. The top brands are Coca-Cola, Tayto, Dairy Milk Chocolate, Lucozade, Avonmore, Bren-

nan’s, Monster, 7 Up, Red Bull, and Jacobs. All of the above are heavily advertised and add in the many highly processed products, fast food, etc. that many people live on, and the picture is even worse.

If farmers fed their livestock the equivalent of the above list they would soon be out of business!

There is much talk of fake news of late. It is time we dealt with the problem of fake food and the massive advertising behind it. Fake food consists of products that are sweetened, flavoured, textured and coloured to look like food and beverages but they are devoid of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other essential nutrients.

These products are addictive in many cases and if the taste buds of a young child are corrupted at an early age it is very difficult to get them to eat a health-giving diet thereafter.

There is an issue with the affordability of wholesome food for those on low incomes. A tax on fake food and a subsidy on real nutrient dense food would be one way to address this.

Then we have stress management. Stress is a part of living and our bodies are equipped to deal with stress. Some people are better equipped than others to deal with stress. However where there is constant stress our immune function can be severely impaired. The pace of life, lack of sleep, constant noise and distraction, debt, fear – in short, the rat race that is modern life – can be the cause

of much disease, both mental and physical.

Knowing and accommodating our genetic constitution, eating a wholesome diet, and managing and reducing stress are the keys to good health in any population. The lifestyles of many in the human herd seem to be designed for disease. The disease problems will continue to increase unless the underlying causes are eliminated or at least minimised.

An intensive education campaign with regard to strengthening our immune status by eating a wholesome diet, by minimising stress and by recognising our individual constitutional requirements is urgently needed. The aim would be to empower people to make healthy dietary and lifestyle choices and to convert our current creaking sickness system into a genuine health system. Without these changes the underlying causes of many diseases will remain and waiting lists will get longer and longer for those who cannot afford private health care. Would Big Pharma help finance such a campaign?

Brazil has written their food based dietary guidelines so that they encourage the population to completely avoid processed food stuffs. It’s different to most other countries. It can be found at bvsms.saude.gov.br/ bvs/publicacoes/dietary_guidelines_brazilian_population. pdf. The document is written in language that is easy to understand and very readable.

The Family Drop-In Clinic at Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre continues throughout the week by phone or appointment.

Community Drop-In is open for all community members who need support with printing, photocopying, help filling out forms, etc. The clothes bank has been emptied and is available again for donations, which help us to raise funds towards the running of the project.

Halloween Arts and Crafts will take place from 11 am to 12 pm on Thursday, October 28th for 5 to 8-year-olds and from 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm for 9 to 12-year-olds. Cost is €2.

The One Million Stars social group meets every Wednesday morning from 11.30 am to 1 pm.

Online Baby and Toddler Activities take place every Thursday at 11 am.

Adult Brief Intervention counselling is also available on Mondays at a cost of €10 per hour. Contact Aisling on 086-4615537.

For information on any of the above services, contact Aisling or Martina (086-1711394).

Athleague Apostolic Workers’ fundraiser for the Missions Athleague Apostolic Workers will host a fundraiser in aid of the Missions on Sunday, October 31st after 10 am Mass on church grounds in Athleague.

Traditionally, a cake sale would have been held also, but as a result of Covid-19 this will not take place this year.

However, a raffle will take place and first prize is a Keane’s Centra Hamper. Lines cost €2 each of €5 for three. There will be a number of other prizes up for grabs also, one of which is a hamper from Jones’ Filling Station.

All monies raised will go to Missionaries in third world countries, which, on top of war and famine, now have to cope with difficulties relating to Covid-19.

Those who wish to contribute to Athleague Apostolic Workers can do so be contacting 090-6623455. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Ros na nÓg Poetry Competition closes this Sunday The closing date for this year’s Ros na nÓG Poetry Competition in association with Roscommon Library and the Children’s Book Festival is Sunday, October 31st.

The theme of this year’s competition is ‘Speaking Up’ and entries must be between 2 and 50 lines long and the poet’s own work.

Age categories include: U-8s, 9 to 12 years, and 13 to 18 years, and entries can be dropped into your local branch or emailed to library@roscommoncoco.ie (please include your name and age on a separate sheet).

Winners will be chosen by award-winning poet, Jessamine O’Connor.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

COVID-19: Reframing the challenge, continuing our recovery and reconnecting

COVID-19: Proceeding with Caution COVID-19 infection rates are once again increasing along with hospitalisations and ICU admissions – which means that we must all continue to proceed with caution.

The resilience and solidarity of our people, however, combined with exceptional support for the vaccination programme, means that we can move forward carefully.

Here are four important things to know:

1 2

Vaccinations work

Vaccination is the best means of protection against COVID-19.

The vaccines are free, safe and effective..

Act immediately if you have symptoms

If you experience any symptoms, you must self-isolate and get tested even if you are vaccinated. Stay at home — do not go to work, school or college.

Do not socialise.

3

Take steps now to reduce your risk of infection

Vaccination does not eliminate the risk of spreading the virus. That is why it is important to wear masks, clean our hands, cover up when we cough or sneeze, choose outdoors over indoors, keep our distance, and ensure indoor spaces are well ventilated. These behaviours ARE effective - they DO work. And remember if you are in a place where guidelines are not being followed and you don’t feel safe – take your business elsewhere.

4

Your actions influence others

Think about what you can do to support and encourage all of the people around you to stay safe - your work colleagues, your clients and customers, your family members and friends.

The following measures will continue for the time being:

COVID-19 Pass — Proof of vaccination or recovery (e.g. Digital Covid Certificate) is necessary for access to indoor hospitality and events.

Keep your distance as an important protective measure.

Wear a face covering in the appropriate settings.

We will have to live with the virus for some time to come.

We must continue to work together so that it causes minimal disruption to our lives.

For further information please go to gov.ie/recovery

Return to workplace continues on a phased and cautious basis for specific business requirements.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Pictured at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday Pictured at the launch of Tom Curley’s ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs night were Colm Ward, Julianna-Mae Ward, Deirdre Curley, Samuel T. Ward, Margaret and Tom Curley (book Hotel last Friday night were Frances and Mickey Kearins, Seamus Hayden, Kieran Duff and Nuala and Sean coordinator). Pic: Mick McCormack Lowry. Pic: Mick McCormack

A dream team of GAA greats fielded at book launch in Athlone < PAUL HEALY

Last Friday night’s glittering line-up of GAA legends in the Athlone Springs Hotel (see also Paul Healy’s Week, Page 6) made for a very enjoyable evening. The occasion was the official launch of a book on GAA legends. ‘Field of Dreams’ was compiled by Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon native Tom Curley, a Co. Galway resident. A number of former Roscommon greats are featured in the book.

I enjoyed the exchanges between the former Irish Independent GAA writer Martin Breheny and some of the special guests. Each legend was introduced on stage to the distinctive music of ‘The Sunday Game’, leading Breheny to quip that the organisers may have intended to invite Michael Lyster to perform his role.

Breheny chatted with a number of the distinguished guests, including Kieran Duff, Mick Curley, Dr. Con Murphy, Sean Lowry, Trevor Giles and Mickey Kearins.

Complimenting Tom Curley on producing a “fantastic book”, Mr. Breheny – still a weekly columnist with the ‘Indo’ – said it should be stocked in the GAA Museum in Croke Park. The book features contributions by more than 65 GAA greats.

Mick Curley made the very fair point that referees can sometimes be subjected to unfair criticism by analysts, the critics not perhaps appreciating that the referee’s decision is “the view of one person” made in ‘real-time’.

Sean Lowry reminisced about marking Eoin ‘Bomber’ Liston – and on highlights of his remarkable career with Offaly and Mayo – while Dublin’s Kieran Duff recalled how he and colleagues Barney Rock and Joe McNally weren’t recognised by the locals when they went for a few drinks in a pub in Blarney on the night before a game.

Dublin were playing Cork the next day. One of the locals queried: “Are ye down for the match?”

Mick Curley and Trevor and Caroline Giles were amongst the guests attending the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night. Pic: Mick McCormack

Asked about the notorious 1983 All-Ireland football final – in which 12-man Dublin beat 14-man Galway – Duff said there were “isolated incidents” in the game, but no “mass brawl” as when Meath and Mayo clashed in 1996.

“We were called thugs in the aftermath...people overreacted...it was a difficult time”.

Mickey Kearins, looking hale and hearty, was a self-deprecating and amusing interviewee, and guest of honour Dr. Con Murphy also told some nice anecdotes, his passion for the GAA very evident. Asked who is the best Cork player he’s ever seen, he gave the accolade to Larry Tompkins.

It was perhaps sobering in the presence of so many GAA greats to hear a laid-back Trevor Giles comment that he doesn’t enjoy modern inter-county football that much. Watching Dublin stroll to victory (up to recently) Trevor said he tended to remind himself after 50 minutes or so of such ‘one-way

Pictured at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night were Michael Miley and David Doran. Pic: Mick McCormack

traffic’ that he has a lawn to cut!

Kieran Duff was able to offer some hope. “The Dubs don’t have the bench now...they have a bit of rebuilding to do. I’m not saying

they’ll be down (in the doldrums) but they might not be winning AllIrelands for a while”. Time will tell what the future holds – for GAA fans, and for Trevor Giles’ garden!

Cavan GAA greats Gabriel Kelly, Jim McDonnell and Ray Carolan pictured with Tom Curley at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople New suicide prevention for Roscommon

Gospel Reflection Sunday, October 31 Love is only law we are to live by. And love is the fulfillment of the Law that God reveals through Moses in today’s First Reading (see Romans 13:8–10; Matthew 5:43–48). The unity of God – the truth that He is one God, Father, Son, and Spirit – means that we must love Him with one love, a love that serves Him with all our hearts and minds, souls and strength.

We love Him because He has loved us first.

We love our neighbour because we can’t love the God we haven’t seen unless we love those made in His image and likeness, whom we have seen (see 1 John 4:19–21). And we are called to imitate the love that Christ showed us in laying His life down on the Cross (see 1 John 3:16). As we hear in today’s Epistle, by His perfect sacrifice on the Cross, He once and for all makes it possible for us to approach God. There is no greater love than to lay down your life (see John 15:13). This is perhaps why Jesus tells the scribe in today’s Gospel that he is not far from the kingdom of God. The scribe recognises that the burnt offerings and sacrifices of the old Law were meant to teach Israel that it is love that God desires (see Hosea 6:6). The animals offered in sacrifice were symbols of the self-sacrifice, the total gift of ourselves that God truly desires.

We are called today to examine our hearts.

Do we have other loves that get in the way of our love for God? Do we love others as Jesus has loved us (see John 13:34–35)? Do we love our enemies and pray for those who oppose and persecute us (see Matthew 5:44)?

Let us tell the Lord we love Him, as we do in today’s Psalm. And let us take His Word to heart, that we might prosper and have life eternal in His kingdom, the heavenly homeland flowing with milk and honey.

-Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (Courtesy of Sacred Heart Church). st

Tibohine NS pupils Maya Goluch, Emily Cunningham and Karina Mahon pictured in their Halloween costumes on Thursday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Tibohine NS pupils Sophie Neary, Catherine Casey and Gabrielle Lavin pictured dressed up in their Halloween costumes on Thursday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Tibohine NS pupils Rian Corcoran and Danny McDermott pictured last Thursday in their Halloween costumes. Pic: Mick McCormack

Tibohine NS pupils Rebekah McDermott and Ameile Konno pictured on Thursday last in their Halloween outfits. Pic: Mick McCormack

Happy Halloween!

A groundbreaking suicide prevention programme will be delivered in Roscommon, Mayo and Galway in the coming months, offering hope to those at risk of taking their own lives.

Run by the HSE’s National Counselling Service (NCS) in partnership with Suicide or Survive, Eden is an educational programme that also incorporates a therapeutic element and is geared at supporting people to move away from suicide as an option in times of crisis.

The programme has been operating since 2007 and has been externally evaluated by Dublin City University.

In 2016, the Eden programme was delivered for the first time outside of the east coast of Ireland in the west.

Since that time, following ongoing funding from the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention, it has been run on a face to face basis and, more recently, online during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Recruitment is now underway for new participants in Roscommon, Mayo and Galway.

Open to people over the age of 18 years who have attempted or contemplated suicide, Eden provides a safe space where participants can explore their experiences, learn skills to help them monitor and manage their mental health and build a range of supports appropriate to their needs.

This programme runs one morning (three hours) a week for 26 weeks. A maximum of 16 participants are accepted per programme and it is hoped to run this latest round on both a face to face and online basis subject to demand.

Please note this is not an emergency service. Participants can self-refer. Screening and interviews will begin in November to identify participant needs, including whether they require additional support before commencing the programme.

For more information or to obtain an application form, please email: antoinette.hennessy@hse.ie or call 091528030.

For further details on local mental health and suicide prevention initiatives visit the website www.westbewell.ie or follow West Be Well on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ING N R A W E ADVANC S

ROSCOMMON PREPARES N O I S R E ...DIV FOR A HAPPY CHRISTMAS A message from the Roscommon Town Christmas Lights Committee

Roscommon Town 2021 Christmas Lights

Please note the Christmas Lights Team will start putting up the Christmas lights this weekend Work will go on for the next four weeks. Work will start from 7.45 am and finish at approx. 2 pm There will be some diversions in place and we are asking the public to be patient with us Thanks to everyone for supporting the Christmas Lights Committee over the years

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

Welcome return of nightclubs highlights growing issue of spiking Let’s talk about ...

SPIKING Alannah Ita Healy

L

ast weekend saw nightclubs opening up for the first time after eighteen months or so of lockdown, an easing of restrictions that had behighly anticipated by most college students. Although Covid figures continue to spark apprehension for a lot of would-be club-goers, the absence of that part of the social scene had definitely been felt. People returning to nightclubs will certainly be hoping that it’s a credible sign of ‘returning to normal’.

However, the return to nightlife in recent weeks has also served to highlight the growing issue of spiking, particularly among college students.

The issue of spiking is, unfortunately, nothing new.

Young women have long been armed with the same advice against it – keep your drink covered or buy a cov-

er, watch the bartender make your drink, never leave your glass unaccompanied, use special colour-changing nail varnish to check if your drink’s been spiked, etc.

Yet, all of this sound advice seems to fall short against a new method of spiking that has been popping up in the UK and Ireland.

Instead of placing a pill into an unsuspecting person’s drink, in recent weeks reports have circulated that women are being spiked through the use of a needle.

If the needle is thin, someone who is out and has already had a few drinks may not notice the sting of an injection in a crowded venue, and in any case, are essentially powerless against preventing or foreseeing it until it’s too late. Additionally, spiking by injection carries an extra risk, as unclean/shared needles can pose health threats outside

of the actual drugging (and its intent) itself.

In all, the phenomenon of spiking by injection seems all the more insidious due to how much harder it is to protect oneself against it. That same advice that has protected young women in the past now feels irrelevant, and although reports of spiking by injection are relatively low at the moment, it is something that is truly terrifying for a young person trying to ‘return to normal’.

In both the UK and Ireland, it seems the issue is most prevalent in university cities. In my own college circle, I’ve seen fellow female students sharing social media stories warning people of the risks, sharing information on how to keep safe, and in some cases, outing people they have seen trying to do this on nights out. The return to college nightlife was always bound to resurrect the issues around keeping safe on a night out, especially in a post-Covid context, but the emergence of this more covert method is something that has felt deeply troubling for a lot of people.

For female students, many of whom may’ve taken some reassurance in the measures you can take to prevent drink spiking, it is upsetting that the increase in reliable advice has not resulted in a decrease in incidences, but rather in an escalation in the methods of spiking itself.

Opinion among experts suggest that at the moment, spiking by injection is unlikely to be happening on a large scale, and drink spiking remains the more pressing issue. Recorded incidences of spiking have been on the rise in recent years (not taking unreported cases into account), so the hope remains that this issue does not become more widespread in the wake of more late-night venues reopening.

If you are going out, make sure to heed the relevant advice. Keep an eye on your friends and have them do the same for you, and if you suspect you have been

spiked, notify someone trustworthy as soon as possible and seek medical help.

If you suspect you’ve been injected, the advice is to encourage the wound to bleed, hold it under running water, wash the wound with soap (avoid scrubbing while washing), and cover it with plaster or dressing.

Protecting against Covid and maintaining your personal safety are the main focuses for students currently navigating the return to nightlife, and this phenomenon is just another in the list of worries.

In the end, the burden falls

upon our government to instill appropriate safety measures in the face of the growing issue of spiking and the emerging issue of spiking by injection.

But, as sadly is often the case when it comes to safeguarding young women, it is young women themselves who are tasked with taking precautions and looking after themselves and their peers when out.

Hopefully the coming weeks will see this issue addressed in an appropriate manner at national level, and in the meantime, as nights out work themselves back into normality, make sure to keep yourself and others safe.

Comhaltas Chair hopeful of Fleadh return in 2022 Class 1E were recent winners of the Pumpkin Carving Competition at CBS Roscommon.

First year students at CBS Roscommon carved pumpkins with their Transition Year mentors recently.

Members of Roscommon Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann branch are hopeful that the County Fleadh will make a welcome return by Easter of next year.

Speaking at the recent AGM, Chairperson Peadar Brandon said the meeting was a “step in the right direction” but that Covid-19 was still affecting branch activities.

He said there were hopes however that the County Fleadh would be back to its “full glory” by Easter 2022 as it is such a vital part of what the organisation is all about.

Mr. Brandon also commented on Oíche Cheoil, which took place recently in Lisnamult’s new Community Sports Park facility as part of Culture Night. He also sent best wishes to Bill Cunningham who has suffered illness recently. ‘”Bill has been the plaster that has held the branch together for a long period of time and we hope to see him back with the branch in the near future,” said Peadar.

In her Secretary’s report, Patricia Morris thanked all members for their contribution to Comhaltas and acknowledged that no matter how small

the part, it is all worthwhile. She thanked those from nearby branches including Athleague, Knockcroghery, Glasson/Athlone, Rahara and Castlerea who have been supportive in attending Sunday afternoon open-air sessions organised in Loughnaneane Park and more recently in Lisnamult Community Sports Park (where the AGM was held, with some people joining on Zoom).

“The recent Oíche Chultúir event in Lisnamult was very enjoyable,’” she said, “as was the branch’s involvement in playing at the Roscommon Special Olympics Team and Roscommon Garda soccer match recently”.

Another highlight of the past year was the success enjoyed by younger branch members. Aoife Ní Chonghaile won first prize in Scéalaíocht and third prize in Storytelling at the 2021 All-Ireland. Diarmad Pléimeann was runner-up in his age group in Scéalaíocht.

Treasurer Rosaleen Lardner presented the accounts which showed very little activity over the past year due to Covid restrictions.

Peadar commended Rosaleen on

her comprehensive report.

Condolences were expressed on the loss of some of Ireland’s great contributors to Irish music in the past year including Tony McMahon, Joe Burke, Paddy Maloney, Michael Falsey, Martin Connolly and Seámus Ó Dufaigh.

Sympathy was extended to Daniel Feerick (Youth Officer of the branch) and Karen Feerick on the death of their uncle/granduncle, John Downes.

The branch will be selling tickets with a first prize of €5,000 and a range of other prizes in the coming weeks with most proceeds going to the local branch. Tickets cost €5 and are available from branch members or by calling 0879316673.

Membership will also be collected in the coming weeks. €12 for individuals and €20 for families. Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann’s magazine ‘Treoir’ is distributed to members three times a year.

Membership fees can be forwarded to any branch member or call/text Patricia at the number above. New members are always welcome. Ar aghaidh leis an gceol!

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

www.roscommonpeople.ie

The local paper

8-PAGE SPECIAL PREVIEW

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

Pat hopes to make sweet music with Pearses again – from a distance Pearses manager banned from sideline on Sunday < SEAMUS DUKE

“I am 27 years managing football teams and this will be the first game that I will not be on the sideline for in that time...but what can I do? I just have to accept my fate”. Padraig Pearses manager, Pat Flanagan. Photo: Mick McCormack

Pat Flanagan is one of the most experienced managers around, having been in charge of the county teams of Westmeath, Sligo and Offaly, as well as a number of club sides.

This Sunday, Pat will be watching the county final from ‘outside the wire’ after his clash with officials during the semifinal win against St. Brigid’s.

Conor Daly was sent off in that match and he is eligible to play on Sunday, having successfully appealed the red card.

Pat Flanagan told People Sport that he will have to accept the position he finds himself in on Sunday.

Confirming that he didn’t see grounds on which to launch an appeal, the Offaly man said it will be difficult for him to manage the team away from the sideline.

“I am 27 years managing football teams and this will be the first game that I will not be on the sideline for in that time.

I will have to find a way to manage it on the day. But what can I do? I just have to accept my fate”.

Pat agrees that his charges were not playing well earlier in the championship. “We were in a very tough group and things were not clicking for us the way that we wanted. We introduced a few younger players into the group but as things progressed we got better. Hopefully that improvement will continue on Sunday”.

The Pearses manager says that to be part of the management for a classic game like the semifinal win against Brigid’s was very enjoyable.

“It was very pleasing to be involved in a game like that. In my time in team management it was one of the best games that I was a part of. It was a great game of football. The spirit and character that our lads showed was immense. Our lads play better when their backs are to the wall.

“We started well but Brigid’s came back with two brilliant goals. We came back twice after that. To have outscored them five points to one in the last quarter was so pleasing”.

Pat feels that this is a special Pearses team. “I have said it since I came here, but if this

team was in any other county where I have been before – like Offaly or Westmeath – they would walk the championship.

The one thing they had to get over here was the fact that they hadn’t won a championship. I am a firm believer in tradition and history in football and Clann have that history and tradition.

They know how to win championships. We are still figuring out how to do it”.

Consistency is the name of the game as far as Pat Flanagan is concerned. “We were disappointed how we played last year in the final against St. Brigid’s.

It’s all about progressing, and we didn’t do that in 2020. We have to get to a level where we are performing at our best and we will need that if we are to beat Clann on Sunday.

“These matches take on a life of their own. It’s neighbour against neighbour. They will be expecting to win it. It will be very, very tight, but I think that our semifinal battle (against St. Brigid’s) will stand to us on Sunday.

“I don’t think that there will be a runaway winner. The team that shows the greater character will win it in the end”.

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

‘A lot has changed since 2020 ...it’s a new team really’ Kearns on rebuilding after loss of Donie and Cathal Shine < SEAMUS DUKE

Liam Kearns is in his second year in charge of the Clann na nGael senior team. The former Limerick and Tipperary manager is one of the most experienced coaches in football and he is determined to lead the club to a Fahey Cup triumph after their agonising one-point loss to Sunday’s opposition in last year’s semi-final.

He says that 2020 was not an accurate barometer of where his team are. “Last year was a very strange one. I only had around 20 sessions with them and five matches, and all of them were championship matches. In saying that I would have been very disappointed with the way we lost the game against Pearses last year. I felt that we beat ourselves, which was disappointing from our point of view.

“A lot has changed since 2020. It’s a new team really.

Donie Shine and Cathal Shine, two massive players for the club, are gone. When you look at the team now and the one we had last year, it’s hard to believe the difference between the two”.

Clann are seeking their 22nd title on Sunday, while Pearses are trying to win just their second. So has tradition a say in the destination of the title?

“Tradition is always a good thing but it won’t count for much on Sunday. If you look at the recent tradition, it’s Pearses’ third final in a row. They’re battle-hardened. I’ll have a few players playing in their first final. There’s a difference in (terms of) experience.

“But being involved in a club that has a good history and where there is expectation can always help you. It’s a good thing to have. I’d be conscious that there was a big gap between 1996 and 2015 when they didn’t win one.

We’re a different team from even a year ago so tradition only takes you so far”.

The teams met earlier in the championship and on that occasion Clann won by four points (0-14 to 0-10) but the Clann manager is not passing too much heed on that encounter.

“I don’t think Pearses were at their best. They only brought on the likes of Ronan Daly and Paul Carey in the second half. Hubert Darcy was in the half-forward line.

They were trying a couple of new players. I don’t think that either team were at their best. I was happy with my crew on the evening. They displayed a good attitude and played reasonably well without being brilliant. I felt that Pearses were always going to be involved. I said to Pat (Flanagan) afterwards that we’d meet again down the

“Tradition is always a good thing but it won’t count for much on Sunday”. Clann na nGael manager Liam Kearns is hoping to lead his team to another title win this weekend. Photo: Mick McCormack

road. At that stage, I didn’t think it would be in a final”.

Liam Kearns says that the new players in the Clann team this year have given them a freshness. Other players have been switched too.

“Players like Jack Connaughton and Darra Pettit would have been on the team last year if they were available. A couple of young fellas like Paddy Gavin and Ian Harney have come in. Neither of them were part of last year’s panel. Cathal and Donie (Shine) weren’t available to us, so we had to address that. Ultan Harney and Emmet Kenny would have played in the backline last year, they’re in the forward line this year. We’ve really built from the bottom up.

“We have a lot of pace in our team now. You have to work with the type of players you have. Your tactics have to reflect their strengths, so we have changed our game a lot from last year”.

Liam says that the semi-final win against Roscommon Gaels was a real battle. “When a team put 13 or 14 players behind a ball, it’s always a struggle. If we went out tonight against a team that put 13 or 14 behind the ball, there would only be a couple of points in it. We had to change course completely for that game. We couldn’t play the way we played against Michael Glavey’s. The Gaels only played with one up top, and two at the most. They were a very physical and experienced side. I had the boys ready for what was always going to be a tough challenge. We turned them over seven times on their kickout, but we got no score off that. That’s not good enough really. We kept them in the game by not doing that”.

Liam says that both sides will attack on Sunday if the conditions allow. “It will be a question of how we go and how they go. Pearses play at a high tempo as they did against Brigid’s. They defend well and they counter-attack at speed. I expect that both teams will want to play at a high tempo, but conditions will dictate that. We’re heading into winter now. It could be raining. I’m hoping that it will be a dry ball and that the two teams can play football”.

Liam concluded by saying that their opponents on Sunday deserve their favourite’s tag.

“Pearses are very settled and they’ll be in a position to play the same team they had last year and the year before.

Certainly, the teams know each other very well. Traditionally, there isn’t much between them. We’ll see on the day.

The commentators out there seem to think that Pearses are hitting form at the right time. They had a big win against Brigid’s and they are more experienced, so I’d probably make them slight favourites” he said.

WISHING TO PÁDRAIG PEARSES IN THE FINAL

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

Halloween treat: Clann can Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC final: Padraig Pearses v Clann na nGael on Sunday at Dr Hyde Park (2.00 pm) came good again to pip last year’s champions.

If they can continue that upwards curve in terms of their form they will have a great chance of winning a second ever senior title on Sunday.

Pat Flanagan can call on all his tried and trusted men again. Paul Whelan is a very competent netminder, while in front of him Gavin Downey, Anthony Butler and Mark Richardson will have the job of dealing with Ciaran Lennon and company.

In the half-back line there is more experience with Shane Carty, Ronan Daly and Davy Murray, the latter having a great championship this year.

The county star, always a threat going forward, is playing some great stuff for his club.

Conor Daly’s reprieve (he has had a ban rescinded) means that he will take his place alongside brother Niall in the engine room. It’s a formidable pairing. Lorcan Daly, Niall Carty and Conor

< SEAMUS DUKE

“We’ve been working hard to develop that consistency over the last couple of years to make sure we’re at the business end of the championship”. Davy Murray sizes up his options during this phase of play in his team’s classic encounter with St Brigid’s. Photo: Mick McCormack

The only prediction about this eagerly awaited final that one can be fairly confident about is one that concludes that a close game is in prospect.

I’ve watched (and reported on) a lot of Roscommon championship campaigns over the decades, and in my opinion this year’s offering has been of a very high standard. The two teams who have reached Sunday’s final have played some great football along the journey.

Two months ago I wouldn’t have given Pearses a snowball’s chance in hell of getting to the final, let alone winning the title, but they have come into form at just the right time. They have a very experienced and settled team and options off the bench too.

Their revival began against Tulsk and continued against Boyle and St. Brigid’s, the latter contest a thriller in which Pearses

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

edge fascinating derby final Payne will line up in the half-forward line. Payne has been a revelation this year and scored four super points in the semi-final.

Inside, Emmet Kelly and Paul Carey are scoring heavily this year and at full-forward Hubert Darcy is coming into top form and will be a vital component for Pearses on Sunday. Clann will have to formulate a plan to deal with him. An excellent footballer, he mixes his game up by coming deep at times.

At the beginning of the campaign Clann were many people’s tip to win the Fahey Cup this year – and they haven’t put a foot wrong so far.

They breezed through their group without too much fuss. Then, against Michael Glavey’s, Clann produced the performance of the championship so far when they scored 25 points, while playing some of the best football seen in the championship for many a long day.

In the semi-final that followed, they were rattled by Roscommon Gaels in a tough battle, a match that went right down to the wire. The fact that Clann weathered that storm could well stand to them on Sunday.

Ciaran Lennon has been their main man and is the best player we have seen in the senior championship this year. Against Roscommon Gaels, even though he was tightly marked, he still managed to score seven points.

Lennon will play a key role again on Sunday. He

1990/1991 Rossies to be honoured

The Roscommon senior football teams who won backto-back Connacht SFC titles in 1990 and 1991 will be honoured during half-time of this Sunday’s Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon Senior Football Championship Final between Clann na nGael and Pádraig Pearses.

will need his attacking colleagues to step up to the mark though as he won’t win this final on his own.

Ultan Harney is playing at centre half-forward this season. If he’s on his game he could have a major influence on the outcome, given his ability to carry the ball and contribute vital scores.

In defence, Jack Connaughton is back in the team and playing well too. Fearghal Lennon is another top class performer who is back fully fit this year. Shane Pettit has had a great year at centre half-back and he will be another man that Clann will be looking to on Sunday.

Paddy Gavin has taken to senior football much like a duck to water. He is a great prospect. In midfield, Cathal Duignan and Graham Pettit will have the job or curbing the Dalys and the former duo have certainly been very effective this year.

If it is a dry, calm day we can expect another cracking match, reflecting the trend in the SFC. Whatever the weather is like, there’s unlikely to be much between the teams.

Earlier this week I was going to opt for a narrow Pearses win, but I’m going to stick with Clann, the team I have fancied since before this championship even started. I am giving a hesitant vote for Liam Kearns’ men to capture another Fahey Cup on Sunday.

Prediction: Clann na nGael.

Action from Clann v Roscommon Gaels in the recent semi-final. Photo: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

In-form Lennon says it’s all about winning! < SEAMUS DUKE

If there was a ‘Ballon d’Or’ for the players of the championship this year then Ciaran Lennon would be the odds-on favourite to win it, such has been his phenomenal form. However he says winning the title is all that matters on Sunday.

“I’ve just carried on from last year.

From a personal point of view, it has gone pretty well. But it won’t mean anything if we don’t win on Sunday.

That’s the most important thing.

“I just put it down to being a year older and being more experienced, and another year’s training under my belt. I feel a bit stronger and I’ve got more practice in as well”.

Given his form, Ciaran is used to being particularly closely marked.

“Going into games, I’m used to close attention at this stage. I’m sure it will be no different on Sunday. I’ll just try and influence the game in whatever way I can, whether that’s kicking the scores myself, laying them on for other lads, bringing other people into the game, or by making space for others with my runs. It’s just a case of playing it the way I see it on the day”.

Similar to his manager, Ciaran is not passing too much heed on the group game earlier in the championship between the two teams.

“Pearses had a few injuries that day, and a few lads that were just back from injury. They were only getting going at that stage. We were at home, we had our own crowd under lights on a Friday evening here, obviously that was a great atmosphere for us.

We were highly motivated. It will be a different game on Sunday”.

The local derby of ‘21 < JIMMY KENNY

We hope this County final Will be a treat for everyone Because there is rivalry and laughter That makes for extra fun As tension slowly rises Each are primed to win the Crown After Pearses beat St Brigid’s And Clann beat Roscommon Town We remember games of long ago When results were always tight With Tom Turley and Frankeen Costello Facing PJ Shine and Tony Whyte Now if you cannot get a ticket Then you can listen to Shannonside Where the picture will be painted

By Willie Hegarty in the Hyde We salute our two teams from the south Ye are a credit to your clubs Players have a chance to make the first fifteen And the rest are super-subs So don’t despair on the big day Because only one can win So let’s all shout and wave our flags Because ye are all Roscommon men

In-form Ciaran Lennon (pictured kicking a point against Roscommon Gaels) has been the player of the championship to date in the opinion of many. Photo: Mick McCormack

Ye are the lucky players The result is in your hands Now let’s all respect the ref And all those opposing fans So the best of luck to everyone From the goalie to fifteen As both our teams go head to head On this week of Halloween

New faces now closing games out – Darcy < SEAMUS DUKE

“Earlier in the year, we got a chance to blood a few younger players, and now we have new faces coming in off the bench to close these games out”. Hubert Darcy (pictured on the ball against St Brigid’s) has been paying tribute to the impact made by some ‘new faces’ this season. Photo: Mick McCormack

Hubert Darcy has prospered for Pearses as the team’s form has improved. By their own admission Pearses did not start the championship well, but they have improved with every match in recent months.

Does Hubert recall a specific moment when things suddenly clicked?

“I don’t think there was any particular moment. It was something we were constantly working on.

We knew ourselves we weren’t where we needed to be. The results were showing us that, because we were struggling a bit. Things have gradually got better. The last performance was better than the

one before. Hopefully that trend continues in the final.

“We’ve been here before. There have been other years when we haven’t started as well and then we’ve come good later in the competition. When we won it in 2019, it was pretty similar. We have been able to draw on that because we know the experience and quality we have in the team will get us there if things can click. So it’s just a matter of keeping it going and hoping that things come together”.

On that epic semi-final epic against St. Brigid’s, he reflected: “We tore out of the blocks in the first 10 or 15 minutes. Then we had a bit of a lull, which has been a bit like our season. Things don’t

always happen at a million miles an hour for us. But we able to stay in the game when things were going against us. Then we enjoyed another purple match and we were able to kick on. It was a serious game, it really ebbed and flowed. It was great to watch it back”.

While Pearses are an experienced team, he believes new faces have been very effectively drafted into the squad.

“Earlier in the year, we got a chance to blood a few younger players, and now we have new faces coming in off the bench to close these games out. We were behind the last day coming into the last quarter, but it was the subs that came on who kicked the vital

scores. That’s what got us over the line.

“We have lads with lots of experience but there are other lads coming through and pushing us on, and getting us over the line”.

On Clann, he commented: “We’ve played each other so many times, in championship and league, all big games. Our record against them in championship isn’t great. We beat them last year, and it was the first time in a while to get the better of them in a proper championship game. I don’t think either team would have been particularly happy with their performance on the day.

We just ended up kicking the last score. Hopefully something similar might happen on Sunday”.

31

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm Fully-fit Feargal making up for lost time!

Feargal Lennon has had an outstanding championship for Clann na nGael. The Roscommon county player is now fully fit again after being plagued by injuries over the past two years.

“Thankfully all the injuries have cleared up. I suppose, with the break because of Covid, it gave me a great opportunity to recuperate the body.

I was able to work on a few niggles – especially in my back – that had given me trouble for up to two years.

It was a blessing to get a break from football. I had played a lot of football between club, county and college, so I appreciated the break”.

Feargal has been happy with Clann’s form throughout the campaign. “We started very well.

Sometimes it can happen where a team dips in form, but luckily, we’ve held our form throughout. I believe that we can peak again in the final.

We were expecting a tough game against Roscommon Gaels and that’s what we got. People might have thought otherwise but we knew about their players and the quality they had. I was really impressed with their intensity and their tackling. It sets us up nicely for the final”.

Feargal points out that this final is a match between rivals who are neighbours and friends. “I’d be friendly with a good few of the Pearses lads.

I used to live with Hubert Darcy for a good few years when I was in college. There’s always a bit of banter and texting going on but it will be quieter in the days leading up to the final!”

One of the best championship races in years – Harney Ultan Harney is one of Clann na nGael’s key men on Sunday. Multi-talented Harney, who has suffered a lot from injuries, is now leading the Clann attack.

“We are where we want to be now. Every club player wants to play in the final and now we are there we want to go on and win it. I think the standard

of the club championship this year has been as strong as it has been in a long time.

That’s good for the game in the county. No team has got an easy run this year”.

The Roscommon star agrees that the teams know each other so well and there are no secrets on either side. “That’s certainly true. We know each other

inside out as footballers and as people too. We went to school together and we play with Roscommon with them too. Even the managers Pat (Flanagan) and Liam (Kearns) know each other well too. That adds to the build-up too”.

Clann last won the Fahey Cup in 2018 and Ultan is keen to taste more success. “There

were times when we thought we might win back to back titles but it hasn’t worked out like that. But after 2015 and 2018 we dropped off both times which was disappointing because we have the makings of a good team”.

Ultan is happy to be injuryfree, which has been a big boost to him personally. “I

have had a couple of niggles against Roscommon Gaels and Strokestown but I am playing further up the pitch this year – and it’s great to be playing again. I was watching from across the fence the last couple of years and that’s not nice. I am really looking forward to Sunday, it’s what we train all year for”.

“We are where we want to be now”. Ultan Harney – pictured scoring a goal against Strokestown earlier in the season – relishes the big games. Photo: Mick McCormack

Davy Murray keeps a tight grip on the ball against St Brigid’s! Photo: Mick McCormack

Murray determined to make up for last year’s loss Roscommon inter-county star Davy Murray has been having a super championship this year. The experienced defender has been playing in the half-back line and has been a major influence in Pearses’ run to another final. He says that they are trying to become a more consistent side.

“It’s good to get there again.

We’ve been working hard to develop that consistency over the last couple of years to make sure we’re at the business end of the championship. Obviously last year was a disappointment, so we’re definitely looking to rectify that. But it’s not something we’re thinking too much about. It’s a new game against new opposition”.

Davy says that he was expecting a really tough test in the

semi-final against St. Brigid’s.

“We didn’t expect anything different from a team like St. Brigid’s. They’re a top side and we know that from playing them over the years.

You’re always expecting a battle and that’s the way it turned out. It could have gone either way, so we were happy to come out the right side of it”.

So how does Davy like playing in the half-back line this year when he is used to playing in the full-back line for club and county over the years? “When you get to play anywhere, you’re happy. I’m not that bothered whether it’s the full-back line or half-back line. My job is to try and influence the game and put in the best performance I can”.

Davy is under no illusions about the challenge that

Clann na nGael will pose on Sunday. “Clann beat us well earlier in the year and we were a bit disappointed with our performance that evening.

They’re going really well, they’re really strong. I know the lads from the Roscommon scene and they have top players. We know what to expect from them and we’ll have to be at the top of our game to compete with them”.

Davy says that the fact that manager Pat Flanagan will not be on the sideline on Sunday (as he’s serving a ban) won’t be too much of a problem for Pearses. “A lot of the preparation takes place before the game. Once you cross the white line, you can’t be looking to the sideline too much.

It’s down to us after that. We know what we have to do”.

32

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final: Clann na Gael v Pádraig Pearses at Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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34

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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RE/MAX, the world’s number one real estate brand, has taken over the long established estate agency of Property Partners John Earley. The agency, located at The Square in Roscommon town, teams up with the global group and will now be known as RE/MAX Team Earley.

Established in 1979, Earley’s business and trusted reputation is renowned in the midlands and west. John Earley has over forty years’ experience in the property market, and while this new move will hugely strengthen the Roscommon agency, it will also allow John and his wife Helen to step back from the day-to-day hustle and bustle of agency life whilst remaining consultants to the business.

“Combining the existing local knowledge and experience of the firm with the global resources of RE/MAX, as well as the sales tools, market insights, education and training available to our teams can only enhance the professional service our clients enjoy,” said Cormac Sheehy (Director of the new RE/MAX office).

Located in the Stonecourt complex in Roscommon, Earley’s business specialises in sales, lettings and valuation of all property types, from residential to public houses, hotels, farms and development lands.

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“John Earley is a quintessential property authority and a leader in our industry. His knowledge of the industry, built over forty years, has created what has become a model real estate business, and one which we are delighted to have as part of our trusted group,” the RE/MAX Ireland business principal said.

RE/MAX estate agents operate across every region of Ireland. They provide residential

property services, including noobligation property appraisals and advice for those thinking of selling, as well as commercial property and auctioneering services. The group is actively recruiting new and existing real estate businesses to join the brand, as it invests further in shared technology and business development supports that, essentially allow local agents to focus on customers’ needs first.

RE/MAX is found in more than 110 countries around the world, with 140,000 agents working in 8,000 RE/MAX real estate agencies, marking an international presence greater than any other.

John Earley.

35

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

PropertyPeople Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Mobile: John 086 2551380 Email: teamearley@remax.ie Web: www.teamearley.ie NEW TO THE MARKET

3 Bed Residence known as “The Presbytery” LOCATED AT

BREEDOGUE , FRENCHPARK, CO. ROSCOMMON F52 KT20

John Earley FIPAV

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481-001661.

NEW TO THE MARKET

3 Bed Residence on Approx. 3.13 acres LOCATED AT

POLLRANNY, CASTLEPLUNKETT, ROSCOMMON F45 TR60

AMV €10 €100,0 0,00 00

AMV €125 €125,0 ,00 00

A 3 bedroom detached two-storey residence, extending to approx. 1,540 sq. ft., the property was originally constructed in approx. 1900’s and is in need of work and modernisation throughout. The ground floor comprises of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, utility, W.C., hot-press and storage space beneath the stairs. Proceeding to the first floor is a landing, 3 bedrooms, main bathroom and W.C. Certified with a G BER Certificate, the property is heated via oil fired central heating and 2 solid fuel feature fireplaces in the living room and dining room.

Double glazed windows are fitted throughout the property. Externally the property sits on a generous size site with lawns surrounding the house, mature trees and a spacious driveway. There is also a shed with ample storage to the side of the property.

BER G Legal: Callan Tansey Solicitors, Boyle (071) 966 2019 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

A 3 bedroom bungalow residence which comes to market with approx. 3.13 acres of agricultural land. The bungalow extends to approx. 821 sq. ft. and is presented in good condition throughout. Living accommodation is comprised of a porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, dining room, 3 bedrooms and main bathroom. The property is heated via a Stanley solid fuel range in the kitchen with back boiler and a solid fuel feature fireplace in the living room. Double glazed windows are fitted throughout.

Externally the bungalow sits on a generous sized site with manicured lawns, mature trees and shrubs and a large driveway leading to the rear where there is ample parking space and storage sheds. The site offers the opportunity to extend the property if required and is subject to planning.

Ber D2 Legal: Padraig Kelly Strokestown, Roscommon (071) 9633666 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET: MARKET:

3 Bed Residence standing on Approx 14 Acres located at

CARROWNASKEAGH, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 E781

TO LET RETAIL/ OFFICE UNIT

13 CASTLE VIEW, CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON, F42E519 AMV €250.00 €250.00 per week

A fine residence and prime lands of approx. 14 acres. This said sale presents a rare opportunity to acquire renowned Tulsk lands with a fine 3 bedroomed two storey residence and sheds.

This property is in good condition. The site is private, secure and located just 3km from Tulsk Village.

Note: Land and residence can be sold independently should market interest dictate.

Services: Water, ESB, Septic Tank, OFCH Lot 1: The entire lot Lot 2: Residence and 0.7 of an acre with barns Lot 3: Lands of approx. 13.3 acres with hayshed Legals: Noel Kelly, Kelly and Ryan Sligo 0719162855 The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell

Newly refurbished unit with reception area with fresh laminate flooring and 3 private carpeted offices.

This unit has been upgraded and finished to the highest possible standard.

Modern storage heating, panel lighting, CAT 5 cabelling throughout are hallmarks of this unit.

There is a dedicated canteen and fitted kitchen as well as staff toilet.

This unit is professional, bright and inviting and measures in at c. 900sq ft.

The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to lease.

WE OFFER A COMPREHENSIVE FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL PRE-MARKET ANALYSIS OF ALL PROPERTIES TOGETHER WITH AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIRTUAL TOUR TECHNOLOGY IN ALL MARKETING.

36

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SOLD

37

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Business

Lifetime Achievement Award for late Roscommon carer The late Geraldine Casserly, who tragically died from Covid-19 earlier this year, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Home and Community Care Ireland Home Care Awards, supported by First Ireland Insurance Brokers.

Geraldine’s husband Seamus and adult children Conor and Samantha attended the ceremony and accepted the award on her behalf.

Originally from Kilmurray, Co. Roscommon, Geraldine lived in Frenchpark with her family and was one of the founders of Westcare Homecare. Geraldine founded the company in 2013 with Sharon Carter.

A nurse by profession, Geraldine had helped to develop the company to what

it is today, a home care provider operating across the counties of Roscommon, Sligo, Galway, Cavan and Monaghan. Geraldine, who was in her early fifties, is remembered as a caring and sensitive person who added so much to the lives of other people.

Joseph Musgrave, CEO of HCCI, which is the representative body for home care providers and advocates for home care services to be made available to all on a statutory basis, said: “HCCI would like to award this first Lifetime Achievement award to our late colleague Geraldine Casserly. Geraldine made a commitment to care through becoming a nurse and then through her commitment to homecare as well as to her local community through

VFI: Nightclub guidelines ‘cap shambolic week’ The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) says that guidelines published for the nightclub and late bar sectors will lead to confusion among both staff and customers and will be impossible to implement.

The VFI says that making late night events ‘all ticket’, which must be purchased in advance, will lead to public order incidents as large ticketless crowds gather outside clubs.

Padraig Cribben, VFI Chief Executive, said: “This really has been a shambolic process from the press conference on Tuesday last (19th) to the last minute senseless u-turn (regarding venues being allticket). We now have a situation where clubs must move to ‘ticket only in advance’ (by this week).

“We’re extremely worried the new guidelines will lead to public order incidents as ticketless groups gather outside clubs. It is unworkable.

“There remain simple questions that cannot be answered: How will this be managed in late bars? How will music and dancing be regulated in traditional pubs?

Simple questions but officials remain unable to explain what guidelines pubs should implement,” he said.

her business Westcare Homecare. There is no one more worthy of this inaugural Lifetime Achievement award”.

Geraldine’s husband Seamus accepted the award along with his son Conor and daughter Samantha and described Geraldine as “a beacon of care, a shining light”.

“She had the natural ability to treat all clients with compassion, respect and dignity and offered comfort and solace to all her clients and their families during their darkest times,” he said.

“Geraldine was dedicated to giving the highest standard of care and was truly at her happiest when helping others.

“I’d like to thank Joseph and HCCI members for this recognition of Geraldine’s

legacy. HCCI is a fantastic organisation and provides us all with invaluable leadership in our mission to provide the highest standard of homecare to all our citizens”.

Keith Gill, Director of Health Care Insurance, First Ireland said: “We are honoured to support this inaugural HCCI Lifetime Achievement award. From everything I have heard about Geraldine, it’s clear that she was a very special person who gave so much to her clients, colleagues and the wider home care sector and is truly deserving of this award.

“Sincere condolences to Seamus, Conor and Samantha on their huge loss and also to Geraldine’s wider family, colleagues and friends”.

The late Geraldine Casserly, who trained as a nurse and founded Westcare Homecare was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement award at the recent HCCI Home Care awards. Pictured are Geraldine’s husband Seamus, son Conor and daughter Samantha, who accepted the award.

GHR Consulting launch free Employer HR Helpline

‘Boards without succession plans are not future-proof’

Galway-based GHR Consulting, specialists in HR/recruitment services for SMEs, is launching a business helpline to provide free Human Resources advice to SMEs across the west of Ireland.

The 0818-456456 helpline is specifically aimed at providing clarity and guidance to employers who may have questions about updating employee contracts and policies, adjusting to hybrid working or employee remote working requests. The helpline is the brainchild of GHR Consulting owner, Ruairi Guckian.

Mr. Guckian explained the thinking behind the new helpline: “We’re trialling a solution whereby employers can simply call our free helpline with a question, and we’ll provide as much clarity as possible, or at the very least what the next steps should be in their case.

We’re delighted with the response so far”.

Set up in 2019, GHR Consulting has been providing HR support services to businesses across the west of Ireland and counts Dubarry of Ireland, Ecofuel, Lightnet, Carey Development, MidWest Fire and Security, and Ground & Co. as some of its clients.

Employers can avail of the free HR Helpline by calling 0818456456. The service is available from Monday to Friday (10 am to 3 pm). Calls outside of these times Galway-based GHR Consulting, specialists in HR/recruitment services for SMEs, is will be returned the next working launching a business helpline to provide free Human Resources advice to SMEs across the west of Ireland. The helpline is the brainchild of GHR Consulting owner, Ruairi Guckian. day.

The Chief Executive of the Institute of Directors (IoD) in Ireland has said that a board without a succession plan “is not future-proofing its business nor planning for board diversity which is essential”.

Maura Quinn, Chief Executive, IoD Ireland, made the comment as the leading governance organisation published its latest quarterly Director Sentiment Monitor for Q3 2021, which reveals that one third (34 per cent) of business leaders say their primary board does not have a succession plan in place to replace board members.

Furthermore, 45 per cent of board members admit they were recruited as a result of a ‘direct approach from a member of the board/the board’ even though a clear majority (96 per cent) of the respondents believes that diversity is important when recruiting new board members.

Maura Quinn said: “Board succession planning is an important tenet of good corporate governance. The finding that one third of respondents to our survey say that their primary board doesn’t have a succession plan in place raises many flags, not least in terms of planning board diversity.

“A board with no succession plan is not future-proofing the business nor planning for the diversity which is essential for an effective, high-performing board. Many of the barriers to positive change on board composition in Ireland can be explained by a sizeable number of boards not having a succession plan in place”.

38

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

IFA President: Government have no interest in supporting active farmers IFA President Tim Cullinan said the message from the Government CAP announcement last week is that it’s not interested in supporting active farming.

“A cohort of our most productive farmers are going to be devastated by the CAP decisions at EU level. The Minister’s own decisions will do nothing to help these farmers,” he said.

“The total emphasis is on rewarding farmers for reducing production. The Greens are clearly running the show with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael being led by the nose..

“The Minister’s plan to allocate the maximum 25 per cent of every farmer’s Basic Payment to so-called ‘Eco-schemes’ is bizarre, as the Minister himself fought to secure flexibility on this at EU level,” he said.

IFA claims that only a third of famers are cur-

THURSDAY 28TH OCTOBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS, AND WEANLINGS SATURDAY 30TH OCTOBER:

AA WEANLING SALE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SATURDAY WEANLING SALE. PRIZES FOR BEST AA BULL AND HEIFER WEANLINGS. 2 RINGS IN OPERATION. MONDAY 1ST NOVEMBER:

WEEKLY BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY 4TH NOVEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS

INCLUDING 9 TWO AND HALF YEAR OLD SPRINGING HEIFERS SCANNED IN CALF TO PB LIM BULL DUE 01/02/22 ONWARDS ALSO DISPERSAL SALE OF 6 PBR AA SPRINGING COWS SCANNED IN CALF TO PB AA, DUE JAN ONWARDS. MONDAY 8TH NOVEMBER:

WEEKLY BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY 11TH NOVEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS SATURDAY 13TH NOVEMBER:

HORSE SALE For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Visit Our Website For Details.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

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Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

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IFA President Tim Cullinan

IFA raises New Zealand-UK trade deal concerns for farmers IFA President Tim Cullinan said the proposed trade deal between the UK and New Zealand is very concerning for Irish sheep farmers.

“This is precisely the dangerous scenario that we have signalled following the Brexit vote in 2016. Trade deals between the UK and third countries have the potential to undermine what is a very important market for our exports,” he said.

Mr. Cullinan said he supported National Farmers’ Union concerns about the standards that apply to imports from third countries.

“We have worked closely with NFU since the Brexit vote nearly five years ago. Farmers here and in the UK are committed to the highest standards and we are opposed to any trade deal that does not recognise those standards,” he said.

Fitz: ‘Government can’t see the wood from the trees’ Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice says the Government “can’t see the wood from the trees” and needs to recognise that the agricultural sector is stepping up to the mark on climate change.

The public representative for the Roscommon-Galway constituency told Minister Eamon Ryan last week in the Dáil that the Government needs to improve its own response, rather than place more restrictions on rural Ireland.

“This is a time when communities and especially the agricultural sector are stepping up to the mark when it comes to climate action. By contrast, the government is failing to maximize opportunities to meet key climate change targets,” he said.

Continuing, he added: “A group of us from the agriculture committee visited Devenish Farm in Meath. We spent five or six hours going around the farm looking at how it measured hedgerows and carbon on the trees and how it used different types of grasses. It is a carbon-neutral farm. It is one of the main farms of eight or nine throughout the world picked so different universities can study these matters.

“In the past week or two, I have heard

that Teagasc - which gets a lot of money from the State - and the Government are not looking at hedgerows in considering the carbon tonnage sequestered around the country. I am led to believe that Teagasc doesn’t have the figures for the carbon sequestered by hedgerows and trees.

“We are looking at carbon budgets, but we still do not know where we are starting because we do not know what is sequestered. It is a damn bad way of doing things and puts pressure on people,” he said.

Deputy Fitzmaurice said the agricultural community will step up to the mark but does not want to act on fase figures.

“I drive every day from Galway and for every yard of the road, there are plenty of hedgerows. My understanding is they should be counted for sequestration purposes.

“I have heard in the past week that this will not be one method of offset and farmers will not have this as a mitigating measure when there are so many hedgerows around the country.

“We are foisting something on farmers without knowing the accurate figures before we start. That is the very definition of a pointless action,” he concluded.

rently viable and the latest announcement will reduce that number further.

The IFA President said that the funding for suckler cows, ewes and the tillage sector was totally inadequate.

He added that over €2 billion of the funding announced was EU funding, which had been announced previously, while €749 million was from carbon tax which was committed in the Programme for Government.

“For the Government to say they have increased cofunding for the CAP by 50 per cent is disingenuous as this includes the Government’s promised carbon tax allocation,” he said.

“The irony is that the carbon tax income is generated by active farmers, who have no alternative fuel source. Yet, they are the ones being nailed by these reforms and now by our own Government”.

Castlerea MART WATCH Over 700 cattle presented for sale on Thursday last at our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

Numbers presented for sale remain strong at the moment with the vast majority of them in the 450550 kilo bracket. Prices and trade were similar to last week with breeding type lots the best movers.

In the weanling rings, despite a dip in quality on offer, the top quality lots remain a good trade with a 335kg Charolais bull making €1,440 or €4.29 a kilo while a 300kg Simmental weanling heifer fetched €1,720 or €5.73 a kilo.

The dry cow trade was similar to last week with the top forward cows making up to €2,130 while the cows with calves saw a five-year-old shorthorn cow and her heifer calf fetch €2,830.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1,020 to €2,830. Springers made from €760 to €1,600. Young calves made up to €220 with runners making from €310 to €800 for continental type lots.

320 bullocks presented for sale on Monday, October 18th with a good clearance taking place as demand for the quality stores was maintained. Lots made up to €2.96 a kilo while the forward lots topped out at €2,000.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (28th) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for heifers: Lm 400kgs €1090, AA 390kgs €1050, Lm 435kgs €1350, Lm 470kgs €1560, Ch 480kgs €1175, Ch 685kgs €1730, Shx 505kgs €1630, AA 575kgs €1380, Lm 605kgs €1660, Lm 620kgs €1470.

Dry cows: Ch 905kgs €2130, Ch 850kgs €1920, Sim 810kgs €1770, AA 790kgs €1720, Ch 780kgs €1690, Fr 440kgs €670, FR 495kgs €380.

Weanling bulls: Ch 290kgs €1040, Lm 275kgs €980, Ch 280kgs €930, Lm 285kgs €910, Ch 335kgs €1440, Ch 365kgs €1110, Ch 365kgs €1070, Ch 365kgs €1050.

Weanling heifers: Ch 285kgs €1080, Lm 275kgs €990, Ch 285kgs €860, Sim 300kgs €1720, Ch 300kgs €1010, Lm 360kgs €940, Lm 265kgs €700, AA 245kgs €600, AA 305kgs €810.

Bullocks: BBx 465kgs €1380, Ch 485kgs €1330, Lm 475kgs €1320, Lm 540kgs €1540, Lm 510kgs €1460, Ch 530kgs €1380, Lm 585kgs €1540, Ch 580kgs €1500, AA 605kgs €1480, Lm 960kgs €2000, Ch 675kgs €1610, Lm 620kgs €1540.

39

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

FarmingPeople

Activation of three-year cap for family farms a ‘significant step’ IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chairperson Caroline Farrell said the three-year cap on family farms under the Fair Deal scheme which has come into operation recently was a “significant step”.

This follows the passing of the legislation at the end of the last Dáil session

in July.

Caroline Farrell acknowledged the work of Minister Mary Butler, as well as previous Ministers with responsibility for Older People, in getting these changes introduced.

“This has been a long road for farm families, and this has come as a great

relief for many,” she said.

The three-year cap, on family-owned and operated farm business assets under the Financial Assessment of the scheme, will allow families to better plan and provide certainty around the cost of care for a loved one, while protecting the vi-

ability of the family farm for future generations.

“It’s very important that those already participating in the Fair Deal scheme can still apply for the three-year cap, if they satisfy the qualifying conditions. These farmers can apply by completing section 7 in the new

application form and submitting it to their local nursing homes support scheme office before April 20th, 2022”.

Information on the changes to the scheme and details of qualifying conditions are available at: https://www.ifa.ie/fairdeal-social-protection/.

Fitzmaurice questions whether farmers will see benefit of CAP strategic plan funding Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has questioned whether farmers will see benefits of a supposed rise in funding for the CAP strategic plan in the coming years.

As part of an announcement on Wednesday last, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue stated that funding over the seven-year period 20212027 will increase by almost 30 per cent or €1.2 billion when compared to the 2014-2020 period.

Reflecting on the statement released, Fitzmaurice said: “If the Minister is claiming the increase is across 2021-2027, does this include all of the funds used to roll-over GLAS,

BDGP and other schemes for this year and next?

“Under the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan moving forward, funding for the Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme (ANC) has remained at €250 million per annum.

“The Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme, which is set to replace the BDGP scheme, will receive €260 million in funding. When BDGP was initially revealed in 2015, it was given at annual budget of €52 million – meaning there is no real change here either.

“Despite the Sheep Welfare Scheme originally being quoted as a €25 million scheme, it is being

dropped to €100 million over the course of the fiveyear period between 2023 to 2027.

“There are increases evident for the organic farming sector and Knowledge Transfer initiatives – but we must ensure that as part of these initiatives, the vast majority of the money is dispensed to farmer participants rather than nonfarming participants.

“As part of the new Agri-Environment Climate Measure, the new environmental scheme to replace GLAS, €300 million per year has been set as the allocated funding.

“It is worth welcoming the news that the decision has been made to redistribute 10 per cent of the value

with prices ranging from €1,760 up to €2,320. Once again this week, there were plenty of customers actively sourcing stock, both at the ringside and on line.

On Tuesday next (November 2nd), we will have our winter sale of weanlings. Bookings will be accepted until 5 pm today (Thursday 28th). We will also have a clearance sale of fifty incalf cows, comprising Red Lim X and Char X (For Eamon Coyle, Longford - changing system of farming), all second to sixth calfers, in-calf to five star PB Char bulls, mainly due February to April.

There was a larger entry on offer at our weekly sale for lambs and cast ewes on Wednesday, October 27th, with an improvement in trade from the previous week.

Finished lambs made up to €154, store lambs made up to €127, and stag ewes made up €168.

Sheep sales continue as usual on Wednesday, November 3rd, at 11 am. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: AA

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Special Sale of Heifers Friday, October 29th at 11a.m.

110 pens of Heifers on offer Yard opens at 7.30 a.m.

Stock to be penned by 9.30 a.m.

Also Bullocks and Dry Cows ----------------------

Winter Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, November 5th at 11 a.m.

Also Heifers and Dry Cows

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, 1st November ----------------------

Tuesday, November 2nd at 4 p.m.

Winter Special Sale of Weanlings

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, 28th October

Also Tuesday, 2nd November at 5 p.m.

Clearance Sale of 50 in Calf Cows Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

of the Pillar 1 budget to the Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) as well as the move to continue with internal convergence to a level of 85 per cent.

“Another point which I have asked for clarity on is where exactly the €723 million of carbon tax funding will be spent in the next few years of the CAP strategic plan,” Deputy Fitzmaurice concluded.

Roscommon MART WATCH We had a full yard of cattle on offer at our sale on Friday, October 22nd, with plenty of excellent quality stock on offer.

Prices for bullocks averaged from €2.46 per kilo up to €3.36 per kilo. There was a nice number of heifers on offer considering the large entry of 110 pens for this week’s sale, and prices averaged from €2.20 per kilo up to €2.50 per kilo. There were 52 dry cows presented for sale with only one lot unsold and averages of €1.81 per kilo up to €2.29 per kilo.

This Friday (29th), we will host our special sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows.

On Friday next, October 29th, we will host our special sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows.

There was a good entry at weanlings on offer at Tuesday’s sale, with an excellent trade for both bulls and heifers.

Bulls averaged from €2.63 per kilo up to €4.06 per kilo, and weanling heifers fetched from an average of €2.67 per kilo up to €5.43 per kilo for a Lim X weighing 285kgs and sold for €1,550.

There were also fifty top-quality in-calf springers heifers on offer,

(Proudly serving farmers for over 62 years)

1005kgs €1990, Char X 850kgs €1830, Char X 810kgs €1830, Lim X 785kgs €1790, AAX 855kgs €1770, Char X 800kgs €1720, Char X 780kgs €1630, Char X 690kgs €1470, Lim X 640kgs €1350, Lim 655kgs €1500, Char X 620kgs €1300, Char X 800kgs €1720.

Heifers: Char X 575kgs €1370, Char X 515kgs €1260, Lim X 510kgs €1250, Char X 445kgs €1000, Char x 440kgs €1100, Lim X 455kgs €1100, Char 490kgs €1130, Char X 475kgs €1100, Lim X 455kgs €1100, Char X 355kgs €840.

Bullocks: Char X 765kgs €2000, Char X 705kgs €1970, Char X 740kgs €1950, Lim X 725kgs €1940, Char X 600kgs €1730, Lim X 600kgs €1730, Char X 605kgs €1740, Lim X 590kgs €1740, 2 Char X 597kgs €1770, Char X 605kgs €1840, HEX 685kgs €1680, Lim X 570kgs €1680, 2 Char X 565kgs €1660, 2 Char X 567kgs €1660, Char X 520kgs €1600, Char X 480kgs €1500, 3 Char 473kgs €1290, Simm X 450kgs €1225, Char 485kgs €1380, Lim X 475kgs €1380.

Weanling heifers: Lim X 285kgs €1550 - €5.43 per kilo,

BBX 390kgs €1290 - €3.30 per kilo, BBX 410kgs €1160 - €2.82 per kilo, Char X 340kgs €1150 - €3.38 per kilo, BBX 340kgs €1150 - €3.38 per kilo, Char X 320kgs €1070 - €3.34 per kilo, Char X 350kgs €950 - €2.71 per kilo, Lim X 275kgs €960 - €3.49 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €850 €3.09 per kilo, Char X 280kgs €890 - €3.17 per kilo.

Weanling bulls: 3 Lim X 473kgs €1350 - €2.85 per kilo, Char X 385kgs €1300 - €3.37 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €1280 - €4.06 per kilo, Char X 400kgs €1260 - €3.15 per kilo, Char X 320kgs €1020 - €3.28 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €3.38 per kilo, Char X 335kgs €1010 - €3.01 per kilo, BAX 330kgs €970 - €2.93 per kilo, Lim X 325kgs €990 – €3.04 per kilo, Char X 315kgs €1000 €3.17 per kilo, Lim 300kgs €940 - €3.13 per kilo.

Finished lambs: 48.4kgs €154, 51kgs €153, 50.8kgs €152, 50.4kgs €150, 52.5kgs €148, 50kgs €147, 49.3kgs €145, 48.4kgs €144, 49.2kgs €142.

Store lambs: 40.1kgs €127, 40.5kgs €126, 38.8kgs €124, 38.1kgs €120, 37.8kgs €120, 36kgs €120, 36.5kgs €112, 34.3kgs €110.

Red Lim X & Char X (For Eamon Coyle, Longford-changing system of farming)

All 2nd to 6th Calvers -in calf to 5 Star P.B. Char Bulls Mainly due February to April Also Usual Sale of Weanlings at 4 p.m.

----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Included in the Sale on Wednesday next November 3rd 30 Suff X 2 & 3 year old Breeding Ewes ----------------------

Saturday, October 30th at 1 p.m.

Show & Sale of Pedigree Vendeen in Lamb Ewes & Ewe Lambs ----------------------

Date for your Diary Saturday, November 13th at 6 p.m.

Knockcroghery Belclares Dispersal Sale • 40 in Lamb Stock Ewes, 23 Ewe Lambs • 7 Pedigree Dutch Spotted Ewe Lambs, 1 Commercial Dutch Spotted Ewe Lamb • 2 Pedigree Belclare Stock Rams

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

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40

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

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Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

BIBLE READINGS

Messages from the Scriptures relevant to everyday life Culleen Hall Knockcroghery

Every Sunday 7 to 8 pm Everyone welcome

089 2234009 086 3907685 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

COMPUTERS

DC Computer Services Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods 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:

087 2798704

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 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

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

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

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction General Building l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims l

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.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

FARMING

Mobile:

086 8936012

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

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

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FARMING < FOR SALE: 6 Charolais Heifers, average weight, 460kg. Tel: 087 2131576

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations.

Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

GARDENING SERVICES

TO LET

8-bay slatted shed From now until 1st April 2022. Roxboro area.

Telephone:

089 2161765

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

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

FENCING/GATES

087 2860428

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

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Telephone:

094 96 20099

GARDENING

l l

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281 FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2 wardrobes (handmade), 2 double beds (handmade), 2 glass cabinets, 3 seater couch/settee, 2 double beds and 3 mattresses. Tel: 083 8828882

GARDENING

GATELY GARDENING

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

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

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

HOME REPAIRS < HOME REPAIRS: Repair walls, plasterboard, painting, fascia, tiles, plinths, ceiling, wallpaper, parquet floors etc. Phone: 083 3369829

LAUNDRY SERVICE < LAUNDRY SERVICE: Washing, ironing, best prices, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, open 10.00 am - 5.30 pm, Monday to Saturday. Tel 083 3369829

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

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

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

41

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Classifieds REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI)

Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment.

Through massage of the feet reflexology can • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general well- being Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body.

Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212 Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

Reflexologist Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

l General Reflexology l Baby Reflexology l Special Needs

Reflexology l Hoppi Ear Candling l Indian Head Massage

Phone Diane

086 4061401

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Roscara Housing Association c/o Brothers of Charity, Lanesborough Street, Roscommon intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for revision to front elevation of dwelling by way of removal of existing window and replacing same with double doors at No. 15 Quarry View, Ballybride, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Thomas Redmond and Jean Glynn intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to extend existing dwelling by way of extension to rear of existing dwelling associated works and services at Ballyfeeny, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Robert Kennedy, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works at Coolatober Townland, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, 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 in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the 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: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

Phone: (086) 3490965 Web: www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Alan Benson and Laura Mullins, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for a change of house design and orientation to that previously permitted under Grant of Planning Reference PD.21/284 at Carricknashee Td, Keadue, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

This 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 a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the planning authority.

Signed: Michael Hennessy Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd. Dorrary, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon Tel: 086 1701549

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Declan Gaffney, am applying for permission for demolition of derelict two storey house, change of use of existing single storey office to single storey domestic dwelling, construction of single storey extension to domestic dwelling and construction of domestic shed and all associated site works at Ardcolagh Td, Ballinameen, Co. Roscommon.

This 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 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: Brandon O’Brien Ltd. (Agent) Consulting Engineers Tel: 090 6625005

PODIATRIST

PODIATRIST

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

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

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

TAKE NOTICE that KILTEEVAN GUN CLUB have preserved parts of the lands and bogs in the townlands of Annaghmore, Aughmagree, Ballinaboy, Beldere, Beechwood, Cloncellan, Derrinterk, Derrycarbery, Emoe, Doogramore, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Cloonlarge, Carramore, Killerney and Carton.

The Association has preserved as a game sanctuary parts of townlands of Cloontogher, Clooneigh, Doogramore and Kilteevan occupied by the representatives of George Kilmartin in these townlands.

Persons found in pursuit of game in the lands and bogs referred to above will be prosecuted.

Signed: The Secretary.

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain.

Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

086 3482387

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

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

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

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

The Galway Podiatrist

PODIATRIST

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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 < HOUSE TO LET: 3 bed house to rent in Roscommon, 10 minute walk to Town Centre. Currently undergoing refurbishment. Available from this December. Oil central heating throughout (Solid Fuel Stove in living room only), short/long term lease. Rent will be commensurate with age of house, storage can be made available if required. All enquiries to PO Box No 2095 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Repilies will be answered successful or not. (References will be required).

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!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

090 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

42

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Classifieds TARMACADAM

Harpur Bros

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon FOR ALL YOUR DRIVEWAY NEEDS

We can help you design your driveway from start to finish. Kerbing, drainage, tarmacadam.

Ask about Resin bond many different colours to choose from.

Contact Sean McDermott 085 7604342 or Owen Harpur 086 8953884 for a free quotation

TUITION

Now enrolling

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

TOP QUALITY TURF

Level Teacher l Excellent results record l Limited places available

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

Phone:

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

< GRINDS: French and German grinds, catered for up to Leaving Certificate (Honours). Tel: 087 3515985

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

083 0684011

< 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

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

< 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

USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

086 4679798 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn.

We are safety certified and insured.

Phone:

086 2437376

< W O O D / F I R E W O O D : High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire.

Available in 500kg bulk bag and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 086 3312411 after 6pm. < TURF: Top quality well seasoned black hopper turf, delivered in large trailer loads also bales of hay for sale. Tel: 086 3903120 or 090 6621090

USEFUL SERVICES

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

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.

< ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

The company that can do all them small jobs

FROM

€190 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

USEFUL SERVICES

USEFUL SERVICES

PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 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

Roof Cleaning and Resealing All types of roofs cleaned down, painted Tegral Roof paint applied All work fully guaranteed Fast and efficent

Telephone: 089 9899 912

AtYourService PROPERTY

RO S l

ROS Property Services

Extensions l Renovations l Property Maintenance

P: 090 66 70996 M: 085 2162555 E:rospropertyservices@gmail.com VETERINARY

Evo Roofers Covering Athlone, Galway and surrounding areas

Alan O’Toole

Free Quotations provided

Leaky Roof or Gutter?

Call 085 2427727 Our Services: • New Roofing • Lead Valleys • Emergency Repairs • Attic Insulation • Fascia Soffits • Flat Roofs • Guttering/Downpipes • Chimney Repair • Ridge Pointing • Roof Cleaning

www.evoroofers.com email: evoroofing122@gmail.com

WINDOW CLEANING

Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie Telephone

087 9795226

Phone: 090 6400177

086 2721812 (All areas)

USEFUL SERVICES

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

CONTACT JOHN

l Face to face grinds

l Experienced Higher

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE Power Washing Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l Flat Pack Furniture Assembled l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc. l

l

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Call Mike

087 2478609

Western Carpentry & Roofing

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

1st & 2nd Fixing • Slating & Tiling • Lead work • Leak detection

Tel. 087 9625391

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday • Saturday Clinic 10am - 3pm Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

43

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

AtYourService BLINDS

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

CARS

KITCHENS

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

Repairs

Gerry Martin:

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted.

End of life certs can be provided.

Also scrap metal

Tel: 087 0944027

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Chimney Problems

S tephen H oare

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

086 2203335

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

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

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

Are you a Building Contractor or Civil Engineering Contractor who does not have time to price that project.

Is the paperwork too much to apply for that framework or project.

Then look no further - contact us.

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Contact us on: 089 4154267

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

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

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (INCLUDING PUBLIC SECTOR) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (INCLUDING COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS) CHANGING JOB / GET THAT PROMOTION!

PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, ETC)

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

Martin Hibbitt OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com

Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS) Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, APA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LACDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, LA APA-PL,CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LA PAINTING 091 380900

INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE CLAIMS REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS CLAIMS REPAIR REPAIR LTD. LTD. INSURANCE CLAIMS LTD. CLAIMSREPAIR REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS REPAIR LTD.

PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY PROPERTY CLAIMS CLAIMS CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS Property Claims Consultants PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS PROPERTY CLAIMSSERVICES CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS LOSS ASSESSORS ASSESSORS SERVICES PROPERTY CLAIMS CONSULTANTS LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES and Loss Assessors Services LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES LOSS ASSESSORS SERVICES

091 380900 091 091 380900 380900 091 091380900 380900 087 7371280 087 7371280 087 087 7371280 7371280 0877371280 7371280 087 info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie info@icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.iewww.icr.ie PAINTING www.icr.ie

Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Co. Galway UnitUnit 12 12 Oranmore Oranmore Business Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | |Mountbellew, | Mountbellew, Co. Co. Galway CONTRACTORS Unit 12 Oranmore BusinessPark, Park,Oranmore, Oranmore,Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Galway

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

l

INSULATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

086 8229606

CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....

Appointments SITUATIONS VACANT Midland Precision Engineering requires

rrib Oil Roscommon are now recruiting for the following positions; EMPLOYEE FOR GENERAL OPERATIVE WORK

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WARD Edward (Ned) Scregg, Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon (8th Anniversary) In loving memory of Ned who died on the 27th October 2013 R.I.P.

We lost a father with a heart of gold how much we miss him can never be told.

He shared our troubles and helped us along if we follow his footsteps, we will never go wrong.

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone for part of us went with you the day God called you home.

As we look upon your pictures sweet memories we recall of faces full of sunshine a smile for one and all.

You are always close behind us in everything we do you were a special father God’s gift to us was you.

Sweet Jesus take this message to our dear father up above tell him how we miss him and give him all our love.

We hold him close within our hearts and there he shall remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again So, rest in peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done.

We pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won.

Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time Can take them away

Always loved and sadly missed by his sons Con and Aidan and daughter-in-law Kathleen Anniversary mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 29th October at 7pm.

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45

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DUFFY Jerry Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway

TRAYNOR Brian

In Memoriam Notice

DERVIN Brian Anniversary - 25th October 2015

Ballygar, Co Galway Who passed away on the 4th of November 2020

9th Anniversary occurs on the 26th October, 2021

Deep in our hearts your memory is kept, to love and to cherish and never forget.

Lovingly remembered by Julia and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Monday, 1st November, 2021 at 7.30pm

IN LOVING MEMORY

MORRIS (nee Coyle) Kathleen Mount Plunkett, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Kathleen who died on 5th November 2018 R.I.P. You left us peaceful memories your love is still our guide and though we cannot see you you are always by our side.

Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same but as God calls us one by one the chain will link again.

Loved forever and sadly missed by her husband Micheal, son John, Sandra – her dear cousin and Kathleen and Charlie in the USA. And all relations, neighbours and friends.

Anniversary mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 30th October at 7pm.

On the First Anniversary of Brian’s passing, his wife Evelyn, daughters Imelda, Laura and Ethel, son Damien, daughter in law Ann-Marie, son in law Martin and the extended Traynor family would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with them in person, through RIP.ie, mass cards, phone calls, text messages and all those who travelled a long distance. A very special word of thanks to the following: To Dr. Martin Daly, Dr. Myriam Mangan and Dr. Aishling Collins for their great care and attention, to his carers David Byrnes, Mary Nolan, Margaret Healy, Breege Hannon, Kathleen Gavin and Margaret Carney for the excellent way they cared for Brian. To the staff at Ballygar Health Centre, especially Mary Carty, Maureen McArdle and to the public health nurses Glenda and Siobhán. To the doctors and staff at Roscommon University Hospital, especially Mike and Helen Bury, Sarah Fallon and Mairéad Smyth.

To Claire Healy and the staff at Healy’s Pharmacy, Ballinasloe. To his sister Ina, sister-in-law Theresa and Ann, Mary and the extended Ryan family.

To Matt Naughton, Seán Nolan, Noel O’Malley, Frank and Peter Brannelly, Dermot McDermott, Ann and Laurence Brannelly, Peter Egan, Jimmy Lohan, Anthony Naughton, Frank Muldoon and his lifelong friends John Kelly, Niall Carr and Eamon Keogh who called to visit him regularly. To Fr. Kevin Flanagan, Fr. Tommy Delaney, Fr. Michael Devine, Fr. Tommy Conway and Fr. Michael Breslin for keeping in touch with him. To Fr. Louis Lohan for calling to say prayers at the house and for his beautiful words at Brian’s Funeral Mass.

To our great neighbours Mae and Tommie Carroll, who were always there when needed. To all who provided food and refreshments, it was greatly appreciated.

To the staff at Traynor’s Garage who accompanied Brian on his final journey from the garage and all the people who lined the streets to pay their respects to him on his way to the Church.

To Tomás Kenny and Bernie Moran for their beautiful music in the Church. To Garda Pat Regan for all his help. To the grave diggers who prepared Brian’s final resting place with such care and attention. To Cunningham Undertakers, especially Evelyn and Michael for their professionalism and kindness.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. A Mass of Thanksgiving will be offered for your intentions.

Brian’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 5th November at 7.30pm.

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

Silent memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year.

Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our thoughts and prayers, you still live on.

Fondly remembered by his wife, Kathleen, and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin, on Sunday, 31st October at 11.30am.

THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favour we now request. (mention your request). O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers on our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions.

Amen. A.H. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. K.K.

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THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.C.

Rogers Funeral Directors

NEARY Seán (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of Seán, late of Clooncullane, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, Who passed away on 2nd November 2016.

THANKSGIVINGS

Rooskey

His smiling way and pleasant face, are a pleasure to recall.

He had a kindly word for each, and died beloved by all.

Some day we hope to meet him.

Some day, we know not when.

To clasp his hand in the better land, never to part again.

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

Always in our hearts Gerry, Maura and family. ~~~~~~~~~~ No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye, you were gone before we knew it, and only God can tell us why.

Your presence we miss, your memory we treasure, loving you always, forgetting you never.

Thinking of you always Elaine, Enda, Noah and Cría.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

TIERNAN Brian Cartron, Kilrooskey, Roscommon (39th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 25th October 1982 R.I.P.

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

Sadly missed by your loving daughter Kathleen and family.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. E.M.

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46

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

NewsPeople

At the County Intermediate Football final...

Supporters pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the Roscommon Intermediate Football final between St Faithleach’s and St Dominic’s. Photos: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Sports PEOPLE

47

Dominic’s out for revenge in senior camogie decider Roscommon Senior Camogie Final: Athleague v St. Dominic’s on Saturday in Ballyforan at 3 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

It’s a repeat of last year’s pairing as champions Athleague set out to defend their title against the 2019 champions St. Dominic’s.

There are plenty of good players to be seen on both teams and the outcome is hard to predict. Athleague, managed by Liam Gordon, will be hoping that the likes of Rachel Fitzmaurice, Kelley Hopkins, Maeve Tiernan, Niamh Farrell, Laura

Fleming, Rebecca Brennan and captain Niamh Conway are able to lead the way.

John Benton is the St. Dominic’s manager and they will be eager to atone for their 1-7 to 0-8 loss in last year’s final. But like Athleague, he has several talented players to call on like Caroline Connaughton, Rachel Dolan, Niamh Watson, Joanne Beattie, Aimee O’Connor and Niamh Fitzgerald, When the sides met earlier in the

championship, Athleague won by the narrowest of margins, 0-12 to 1-8, so predicting the winner on Saturday is difficult. Dominic’s may just have a slight edge but it’s a toss-up.

Prediction: St. Dominic’s *The Roscommon Senior ‘B’ Camogie final between Four Roads and Pádraig Pearses will take place at 1 pm in Ballyforan this Saturday.

St. Dominic’s and Athleague will go head to head this Saturday in what is a repeat of last year’s Roscommon Senior Camogie Final. Athleague claimed 2020 honours following their 1-7 to 0-8 in Ballyforan last September.

GAA fixtures Friday, October 29th Junior B FC (Group D) At Strokestown: Kilmore v Éire Óg. 8 pm At Woodmount: Pádraig Pearses v Strokestown. 8.45 pm Saturday, October 30th Abbey Hotel Roscommon Ladies SFC Final At Ballyleague: Kilbride v Clann na nGael.

2.30 pm King & Moffatt Junior A FC Final At Dr. Hyde Park: St Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses. 3.30 pm Junior B FC (Group A) At Mulhern Park: Fuerty v St Aidan’s. 4 pm At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v St Dominic’s. 4 pm Junior B FC (Group B) At Peadar Earley Memorial Park: Michael Glavey’s v Oran. 4 pm At Castlerea: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Shannon Gaels. 4 pm Junior B FC (Group C) At Ardcarne Park: St Michael’s v Kilglass Gaels. 4 pm O’Rourke Cup Division One Semi-Final At Kiltoom: St Brigid’s v Roscommon Gaels. 7.30 pm

Stopped in their tracks!

Creggs Rugby Club’s All-Ireland Junior Cup adventure was brought to a halt by Kilfeacle last weekend. See page 48. Picture: Bernie O’Farrell.

Sunday, October 31st Junior B FC (Group C) At Ballyleague: St Faithleach’s v St Brigid’s. 12 pm Junior B FC (Group D).

At Strokestown: Strokestown v Kilmore. 12 pm Hodson Bay Hotel SFC Final At Dr. Hyde Park: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses. 2 pm

Brigid’s can make it ‘third time lucky’ King and Moffatt Roscommon Junior ‘A’ FC Final: St. Brigid’s v Pádraig Pearses on Saturday in Dr. Hyde Park at 3.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

The power base of Roscommon club football in the south of the county is underlined once again by the fact that two ‘second teams’ have seen off all comers to reach the Junior ‘A’ final and this promises to be another tight

game.

Brigid’s will have plenty to play for on Sunday as they have been beaten in the last two finals and will be hoping to make it third time lucky this Saturday. Eddie Nestor’s charges are back in the final after an impressive campaign and then a hard-fought bat-

tle against St. Dominic’s in the semifinal.

There are plenty of good players on both sides who have a mixture of experienced and young players to call on in both teams. Pearses, managed by Eoin Curran, have Padraig Downey, James Kelly, Andrew O’Regan, Tom

Richardson and the evergreen Seanie Fahy in their ranks.

Brigid’s will be able to call on the likes of George O’Hara, Ian O’Rourke, Eoghan Derwin, Tom O’Carroll, Michael Sugrue, and Ciarain O’Reilly to name just a few and they will surely be very determined

not to leave Dr. Hyde Park beaten in a final for the third year in succession.

It’s a huge weekend for the Pádraig Pearses club but they may have to wait until Sunday to see if they clinch title honours as Brigid’s look a better bet here.

Prediction: St. Brigid’s

48

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Eoghan Carthy

Carthy through to All-Ireland final

Pictured at last Saturday’s AIL Junior Cup Creggs v Kilfeacle at Creggs RFC. Picture: Bernie O’Farrell.

Creggs bow out of All-Ireland Creggs RFC 8 Kilfeacle & District RFC 9 (Energia All-Ireland Junior Cup): Creggs’ AllIreland Junior Cup campaign came to an end last Saturday as they bowed out narrowly to reigning champions Kilfeacle at The Green in the last 16.

In testing weather conditions, Creggs scored the only try of the game after just seven minutes through Kevin Gavin but three penalties from the visitors’ Willie Staunton were just enough to see the west Tipperary side through.

The young Creggs side were more than a match for their opponents throughout but must now focus on the three domestic competitions in Connacht.

This Sunday, they return to action against Monivea in the Connacht J1 League in Creggs at 2.30 pm.

Creggs Development 15 Ballyhaunis RFC 26 (Connacht League): A depleted Creggs Development team fell to league leaders Ballyhaunis in the Connacht J1C League last Saturday.

The hosts scored two tries and there were good performances throughout, not least from out-half Michael Holland, but the visitors managed to get over for four tries and eventually won by 26-15.

This Sunday, the Creggs Development team will take on Our Ladys Boys Club in the Connacht J1C League in Galway at 2.30 pm.

Youth Rugby This weekend, there are friendly game arranged for a number of underage teams and available players can play in those games outside of their normal league games.

Keep an eye on the Creggs RFC Facebook page for updated fixtures.

Ballina RFC 12 Creggs RFC 12 (U-18 Girls’ Connacht League): The U-18 Girls had an impressive result against a much-fancied Ballina side in last Saturday’s Connacht League match.

Creggs opened the scoring when Sarah Purcell went over following good work from Aoibhinn Murray. Aobha Dowd converted for a 7-0 lead.

Creggs then extended the lead when Sarah Purcell released Megan Donohue, who beat a defender to run in under the post, which again Eabha Dowd converted for a 14-0 lead after 20 minutes.

A strong Creggs rearguard action kept Ballina scoreless at the half-time break but the Mayo side took just seven minutes of the second half to reduce the deficit with a converted try of their own.

The hosts eventually got in to level the scores with just three minutes remaining following an intercepted pass.

Buccaneers RFC 26 Creggs RFC 22 (U-18.5 Connacht League Division One): An understrength Creggs U-18.5 side went down to local rivals Buccaneers last Sunday morning.

Creggs took the lead in the first half despite playing into the wind with Lee Kilcoyne touching down and DJ Hession adding the extras.

The lead was to prove short-lived however, as Buccs levelled the scores after just 15 minutes.

Creggs regained the upperhand when a Darragh Gilligan tackle allowed Patrick Charles to intercept and race from inside his own half to touch down.

Hession again converted to restore Creggs’ 7-point advantage.

The hosts weren’t prepared to lie down, however, and once again regained parity with a converted try just before the interval.

Lady Luck evaded Creggs in the second half as a series of injuries and questionable decisions went against them. While Ben Johnson’s try and a Hession penalty gave them a 22-14 lead, Buccs eventually reeled them back in and added two tries late on to take the points.

U-14s: Creggs and Buccaneers shared the spoils last Saturday at The Green in a quite remarkable fixture which saw both teams failing to get on the scoreboard.

Defences were on top throughout and while no team deserved to lose, a couple of try saving tackles at both ends ensured the game ended in a draw.

Mini Rugby Creggs Mini Rugby players travelled to Carrickon-Shannon for an Inter-Club Blitz last weekend.

On a bright morning, Creggs travelled in good numbers, played some lovely rugby and most importantly of all, had great fun!

The U-10s, meanwhile, also had a very special appointment. 25 players made their way to the Aviva Stadium to play at half-time of last weekend’s Connacht v Ulster game.

This was a huge opportunity for the lads and all were very excited leading up to the game.

Three other teams from Connacht - Ballinrobe, Monivea and Corinthians – were also in action with Creggs taking on Ballinrobe.

Described by Creggs officials as a “great initiative

by Connacht Rugby, which they do regularly in the Sportsground”, it was to the team’s good fortune that the home game for the U-10s last week took place at the home of Irish international rugby. Well done to all concerned!

Last Saturday in St. Coman’s, Eoghan Carthy took a big step towards retaining the AllIreland title his brother Rory won in 2019, when he defeated Tipperary’s Stephan Tobin in their Covid-delayed 2020 60x30 U-14 AllIreland semi-final.

Eoghan got straight into the groove from the start and displayed his full array of serves, volleys and kills from both hands to leave the Tipperary youngster chasing shadows for the entire game. The score of 15-3 in the first game was a fair reflection.

Much credit must be given to Tobin in the second though, as he adapted his game and started causing Eoghan some real problems.

The scores were very tight until Eoghan made what looked like a decisive break, going 9-6 ahead, but some poor concentration and shot selection gave the Tipp lad a number of soft aces and when Tobin led 12-10, a third game looked a distinct possibility. However, showing a real ruthless streak, Eoghan upped the ante at the perfect time and produced some superb handball to finish off a tough second game 15-13.

This result means Roscommon have three representatives in the 2020 60x30 finals to be played in the coming two weeks. Eoghan will be joined by Carragh Kennedy and Siobhan Treacy in the Girls’ U-16 and U-17 grades respectively, and all three are strong contenders.

Soccer Results RDFL Premier Division Kilkerrin United 3 Moylough ’79 0 TP Brennan Connacht Cup Dysart FC 0 Fahy Rovers 1

Soccer Fixtures Friday, October 29th RDFL Premier Division Boyle Celtic v Kilkerrin United. 8 pm Sunday, October 31st TP Brennan Connacht Cup Second Round (2 pm) Cois Fharraige v Shive Rovers Coolaney United v St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United Benbulben FC v Skyvalley Rovers Fahy Rovers v Glen Celtic Cam Celtic v Dunmore Town RDFL Premier Division (2 pm) Ballaghaderreen FC v Moore United St. John’s Athletic v Ballinasloe Town RDFL Division One Ballinagare Manor United v Ballinasloe Town B. 11 am Roscommon United v CP Ajax. 2 pm RDFL Division Two (11 am) Cloonfad United B v Ballaghaderreen FC B Rahara Rovers v Roscommon United B

49

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses The racing today is in Clonmel with a national hunt card away at 1.10 pm. Tomorrow evening there is a flat card at Dundalk, off at 4.45 pm and in the north at Down Royal there is a jumping fixture off at 1.10 pm featuring the Grade 2 WKD Hurdle.

On Saturday, there is a second meeting at Down Royal, racing again over the sticks, featuring the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Champion Stakes off at 1.05 pm.

Sunday hosts a flat meeting at Naas, stalls opening for the first at 12.30 pm and a national hunt card at Cork, off at 12.40 pm.

Monday sees a once-a-year meeting on the beach at Laytown, starting at 1.50 pm. If you are going racing his weekend check that it is on with all the rain forecast, especially at Clonmel today.

On Saturday, ITV are very busy again this week covering nine rac-

es, four from both Ascot and Weatherby and one from Down Royal.

Down Royal’s feature on Friday, the Grade 2 WKD Hurdle has five runners with Gordon Elliott’s Zanahiyr and Noel Meade’s Cask Mate the main players. Slight preference for Zanahiyr who gave Cheltenham a miss last weekend.

There are seven in Saturday’s Grade 1 Champion Chase with last year’s Aintree victor, Minella Indo, making his seasonal debut. He has most to fear from Elliott’s Galvin and Paul Nicholls’ English raider Frodon.

Also on the card, is the Grade 2 Racing TV Chase with Henry de Bromhead’s Envoi Allen long oddson to win from six opponents headed

by Elliott’s Coko Beach.

Lieutenant Highway and debutant Mediator are entered in the bumper on both Friday and Saturday. Lieutenant Highway finished third on his debut in Punchestown and the experience should stand to him, he faces five opponents on Friday with Lisa O’Neill declared to ride, Jamie Codd is declared for Mediator. They face 18 on Saturday with no riding arrangements. I doubt they will take one another on and would go for a bet on the double.

Review of the Week

Top Bandit with Davey Russell on board won the closing maiden hurdle from Borson and Jetoile at Cheltenham last Friday.

Shor t putts

An Irish double at Cheltenham last Friday saw John McConnell’s Bardenstown Lad ridden by Welsh jockey Sean Bowen win the novice

hurdle and Gordon Elliott’s Top Bandit with Davey Russell on board win the closing maiden hurdle from Borson and Jetoile.

Elliott’s Mars Harper and Buddy Rich had both finished well beaten runners-up in the opening two races.

Only one winner on Saturday, Gordon Elliott’s Definite Plan in the second just held on from The Hollow Ginge. There were also three placed horses with John McConnell’s Born Patriot second in the Pertemps Qualifier, McConnell’s Roi De Dubai was third in the penultimate and Paul Hennessey’s Ocean Of Mercy finished in a similar position in the last.

Dermot Weld’s dual Irish St Leger winner, Search For A Song, finished a disappointing fourth in the Prix Royal Oak on Sunday at Longchamp. The race was won by English raider Skope trained by Ralph Beckett and ridden

by Rob Hornby with Cedric Rossi’s Skazoni and Jean Claude Rouget’s Glycon filling the minor places.

Rachael Blackmore returned to race riding at Galway on Saturday and rode her first winner at Wexford on Monday guiding Henry de Bromhead’s Eklat De Rire to victory in the MW Hickey Memorial Chase.

Racing News The Gosden trained Mishriff will defend his Saudi Cup, the richest race in the world, title after connections ruled out a trip to Del Mar, California for Breeders’ Cup. The 4-Y-O

by Tom Red

had been under consideration for the Turf at Del Mar on November 6th after the win in Riyadh in February under David Egan. The Prince Faisalowned colt is now set to stay in training in 2022, with the Riyadh race, on dirt, his main target.

Kevin Manning, winner of the 2000Guineas on Poetic Flare, broke his collarbone in a fall at Ballybrit when Dublin Journal slipped up in the Galway Handicap. The son-in-law of trainer Jim Bolger will be out of action for a few weeks.

Point-to-Point News With Down Royal’s big meeting on Friday and Saturday there is no point-to-point racing in the north this weekend but there is action down south in Kinsale with first race at 12.30 pm and 71 horses entered.

There are two meetings on Sunday with racing at Ballycrystal in Wexford with 82 entries and racing begins at 12.30 pm, and at Rathcannon in County Limerick, 89 entries and first race at 12 pm.

Spectators will still have to preregister to be allowed access to a point-to-point and will have to do so until clarification is received. One can pre-register with p2p.com and get an access QR code to present before entering the venue. Registration will open at 9 am on any Friday in advance of each weekend’s racing on www.p2p.ie. All attendees, industry participants and spectators will have to register.

(News from local golf clubs)

Carrick

The Hamper Golfer of the Year results were as follows: 1st: Philip Martin (43 points); 2nd: Brendan Boyle (39 points); Gross: Nathan Flynn (36 points); 3rd: Patrick Martin (37 points). The 9-hole competition played over October 9th and 10th was won by Michael Gallagher with 21 points.

Castlerea

Cian McLoughlin-Gilmore, Senior Boys’ winner, pictured receiving his prize at Castlerea Golf Club recently.

Isobel Kenny, Senior Girls’ winner, pictured receiving her prize at Castlerea Golf Club recently.

Saturday last saw the presentation of prizes to the Senior Boys and Girls and Golf Sixes at the clubhouse.

Isobel Kenny was the winner of the Lady Captain’s prize to the Senior Girls, runner-up was Saoirse Burke. Cian McLoughlin-Gilmore was the winner of the Captain’s prize to the Senior Boys, and runner-up was James Hawkshaw.

Junior club volunteer Mary Colleary presented a golf ball signed by her niece and honorary member, Leona Maguire, to the winners and runners-up.

The Blue team were first prize winners in the Golf Sixes competition (sponsored by Club President Mary). Blue team: Ewan Devine, Tauri Curran, Harry McDermott, Katelyn Daire, Cara Gill and Sean Fitzmaurice with 355 points.

Runners-up were the Red team: Rory Hawkshaw, Amelia Kenny, Juliet Kenny, Michael McLoughlin, Kevin Chiforiuc, and Conor Larkin.

3rd prize winners were the White team: Alex Doyle, Ethan Doyle, Kate Hawkshaw, Sheena Harrington, Aidan Harrington, Cara Harrington, and Yannis Chiforiuc.

4th prize winners were the Black team: Lucy Devine, Anna Larkin, Seán Gill, John Garvey, David Walsh, and John Walsh.

Castlerea Golf Club greatly appreciates the time and effort put in by Junior Convenor Kieran and club volunteers, who help to nurture a love of golf in our Juniors and Seniors, who are the future of the club.

Club President Mary, Lady Captain Kathy and Captain Michael paid tribute to the Junior golfers, who enjoyed a great season of coaching fun on the course.

Meanwhile, the Men’s AGM will take place in the clubhouse on Friday, November 5th at 8 pm.

Winner of the Roscommon People sponsored competition at Roscommon Golf Club recently was Francie Grehan. Congratulations to Francie! The winner was unable to be present for last Sunday’s presentation. Runner-up in the competition, Francis Noone (right) is pictured receiving his prize from Seamus Duke (on behalf of the Roscommon People).

50

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Abbey Hotel Roscommon Ladies FSC Final: Kilbride v Clann na nGael on Saturday in Ballyleague at 2.30 pm

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Recent games between Saturday’s finalists have been close. Flashback to the 2019 County Senior Final between Kilbride and Clann na nGael (which went to a replay, won by Kilbride). Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Can improving Clann catch all-conquering Kilbride?

Abbey Hotel Roscommon Ladies Football Senior Championship Final: Kilbride v Clann na nGael on Saturday in Ballyleague at 2.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

There is a feeling in ladies football circles that there may well be a changing of the guard in the senior final this weekend. Kilbride have ruled supreme in the county for the past five years. Since winning their first title in 2016 they have been magnificent champions and one of

the finest club teams we have seen in the county in recent times. However, this year Clann na nGael have emerged as serious challengers to their crown.

The return to the club of the experienced Finbar Egan as manager, and the arrival of experienced county player Jenny Higgins, has helped to establish the Johnstown

club as a force to be reckoned with.

Clann have been impressive in this campaign thus far and have some excellent players to call on such as Shauna Bannon, Kelley Colgan, Orla O’Neill, Ide Crehan, Caoimhe Lennon and inspirational captain Ruth Finlass.

Kilbride, under the guidance of new Roscom-

mon Intermediate Ladies manager Ollie Lennon, certainly know what it takes to win championships. They started slowly this year but are coming into form at just the right time. Their experienced captain Fiona Tully, Siobhan Tully, Yvonne Creighton, Corina Gormley and the multi-talented Aisling Hanley are just

a few of the aces in the Kilbride pack.

To have won five senior titles back-to-back is a wonderful achievement for Kilbride, but on form one would have to lean slightly towards Clann this time around.

But there won’t be a lot between these teams.

Prediction: Clann na nGael.

Ollie: Motivation won’t be a problem! < SEAMUS DUKE

Ollie Lennon will lead Kilbride in their quest for six senior titles in a row on Saturday before assuming the post of Roscommon Intermediate manager for 2022.

This week, however, his focus is entirely with Kilbride and he says that despite recent success, his players are still hungry for more.

“We have had no problems whatsoever in motivating the

players. They are just as enthusiastic as they were prior to our first win in 2016. There is a still a great buzz in the squad and we have new girls who have freshened up the squad so we have no worries in that regard,” he said.

Ollie says that preparations for the final have gone well and a tough battle in the semi-final against St. Brigid’s will stand to his side.

“We have trained well and have no injuries. The close game

we had against Brigid’s in the semi-final was no surprise to me. They are an excellent side and it won’t be long before they are winning a senior title so we were delighted to beat them,” he said.

The Kilbride manager says that the rivalry with Clann na nGael is intense: “We have clashed with Clann many times over the years and they are always very tough opponents and they are doing great work there as a club.

It will be another very tough assignment for us on Saturday”.

Ollie says that the success of recent times has bred a winning mentality among his players.

“We won our first ever title in 2016 but since then winning has become a habit and they are very determined to keep the run going. There is no talk of ‘sixin-a-row’. We are playing in a county final and it is a game that we want to win. That’s our sole focus now,” he concluded.

51

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

Abbey Hotel Roscommon Ladies FSC Final: Kilbride v Clann na nGael on Saturday in Ballyleague at 2.30 pm

Egan eager to end Clann’s 24-year famine < SEAMUS DUKE

The Clann na nGael manager this year is the very experienced Finbar Egan, who has been coaching at the top in ladies football for the past two decades and is a former Mayo senior manager. He says that Clann will be up against it this Saturday when they face the six-in-a-row chasing Kilbride.

“We have had a good run but we know what we are up against. Kilbride have been the best team in the county for the past five years and we are looking to change that this year.

They are the litmus test. It’s as simple as this: if you want to win anything

you have to beat the best and that’s what we are looking to do on Saturday,” he said.

Finbar says he quickly discovered he had plenty of talent at his disposal when he took over in Johnstown.

“There are plenty of good players here. After that it’s all down to the commitment levels of the girls. We have a great backroom team here and we are all working together well. We have two girls coming home from Scotland every weekend and we have girls coming back from all over the country. There are 10 to 15 away from home but they are back here for training every Wednesday, Friday and

Saturday and that’s why we are in the final,” he added.

It’s hard to believe that it is 24 years since Clann last won a ladies’ senior championship and Finbar is well aware what it would mean to the club to end that wait this weekend.

“This team are good enough to win on Saturday but they have got to go out and deliver on the day. There are a lot of good players on our team and if we are not afraid to go out and play, I think we will get the right result. Kilbride are a super team but it’s now or never for us to step up. We are good enough if we believe we are good enough,” he concluded.

Recent games between Saturday’s finalists have been close. Flashback to the 2019 County Senior Final between Kilbride and Clann na nGael (which went to a replay, won

by Kilbride). Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Jenny delighted to be part of the Clann!

Best wishes to the Kilbride Ladies Football team from

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Cuan Bhr Centre Cuan Centre Cuan Bhríde Childcare Bhríde Childcare C

Four Mile House Cuan Bhríde Centre never trained as hard asChildcare I have with Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House Community Pla Clann na nGael this year. There is a huge Playgroup Four Mile House, Co Roscommon Four Mile House Community CLG FourCoMile Four Mile House, Rosc buzz around the club because ourTel/Fax: juniors090 66 29844 Roscommon county player Jenny HigCHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook. are in Mile the final too and the numbers Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 gins has been a high profile recruit for Four House, CoatRoscommon < SEAMUS DUKE

Paul Foxe Biz card FINAL FRONT.pdf 1 26/11/2013 11:51 training are huge”.

Clann na nGael this year she has Tel/Fax: 090 66and 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com Relief Staff Panel Being Created!

Jenny knows that Kilbride will be a been hugely impressed with her new Relief Staff Panel Being Created! hard challenge on Saturday: “They are a club so far.

Paul Foxe Biz card FINAL FRONT.pdf 1 26/11/2013 11:51 Criteria: great team and they have plenty ofEssential high “This is new territory for me (being in Best Vwishes • Minimum QQI/Fetac in ECCEto the For all your Essential Criteria: calibre players.

They have an excellent a senior club final) but from what I have • Ability to ensure•the health and safety of children at ECCE all times QQI/Fetac V in Kilbride Minimum Ladies Football accounting and manager in Ollie Lennon and an excelseen, the professionalism that Finbar • Experience planning child-centred activities • Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times Essential Criteria: lent system of play and they are also•a Experience working (Egan) and the management team have as partfrom of a team team Paul Foxe taxation Essential Criteria: • Experience planning child-centred activities • Good oral and written communication seasoned team. We are playing well and brought to the set-up means it’s like a • Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE • Experience working as part of a team requirements • (set-up).

Minimum QQI/Fetac V inweECCE had a good win in the semi-final •butAbility to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hoursTel: 090 6600100 county team Finbar is a top • Good oral and written communication Paul Foxe • Garda Vetting required • Ability to ensure the health and safe Kilbride will be a different story.

Hopeclass manager and he has meth• Ability to great ensure the health and safety of children at all times • Ability to work on own initiative, Mob: 087 6808589 willing to work flexible hour Athlone Road fully that hard work we have put in will ods,” she•said.Experience planning child-centred E: paul@foxeaccountancy.ie • Vetting Experience child-centred a activities • Garda required planning Roscommon Tel: 090 6600100 pay off,” she concluded.

“The girls are training hard. I have • Experience working as part of a team Mob: 087 6808589 • Experience working as part of a team Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form.

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Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance F • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hoursSubject to•GardaAbility to work on initiative, wibe Tel:own 090 6600100 39A Main Street, request.

A panel may be formed fromForm which future Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance with letter ofvacancies expression may of inter • Garda Vetting required Mob: 087 6808589 Roscommon.

Relief Staff Panel Being Cre

Relief Staff Panel Being Created!

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Tully: ‘No six-in-a-row talk’

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will disqualify. and CV no later thanCanvassing Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to:

< SEAMUS DUKE

Fiona Tully is one of the Kilbride players who will be looking to win her sixth county senior club medal on the trot this Saturday, and she says that the champions are fully focussed on the task in hand.

“Preparations are going well. It was a slow start for us this year but we have players back and we are looking forward to the final. There is no talk about a six-

CMY

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Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile send House,inCo. RoscommonGarda F42W326 applicants should completed Clearance Form in-a-row at all. We are just focused on petitive and the standard is high andThe weManager, CuanInterested 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com and no later thanKilbride Friday 30 April 2021 5pmteam to: from BestCVwishes to the Ladies Football winning this match on Saturday. There know that this final won’t be any differare new players coming onto theClearance. panel ent.

Clann arefor an excellent andClearance weBhríde Childcare Subject to Garda Please call a blank team Garda Form.

Job description available Cuan Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre,upon Four Mile House, Co. Ro every year and that is keeping things will have to be at our best,” she said. request.

A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled, including relief work.

090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com Subject to Garda Clearance.

Please call for a fresh for us,” she said.

“To win six titles in a row would be a Canvassing will disqualify.

Fiona says it has been a tough chammarvellous achievement but in all honrequest.

A panel be Opportunities formed from whic Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre may is an Equal Employer.

Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships • VAT, RCT, pionship this year and Kilbride are esty we are not looking at making history Canvassing will disqualify. expecting another difficult assignmentshouldor anything like that. WeGarda have been takFinancialof Control, Completion ofofAnnual Tax Returns Interested applicants send in completed Clearance FormPAYE/PRSI, with letter expression interest this Saturday. ing things one match at a time and that’s First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours and CV no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to: “Every team we played in the chamthe way this game will be on Saturday – Interested applicants Provides training & mentoring for start yourshould own businesssend and basicin comple pionship this year has been very comanother game that we want to win”. computers andCV accounting.

– Also training in Thesaurus accounting products. and no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5p The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 ‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com

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52

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SportsPeople

St Faithleach’s players pictured celebrating their win over St Dominic’s in the Roscommon IFC final at Hyde Park on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

GUNN FIRES FAITHLEACH’S TO VICTORY Faithleach’s claim title in controversial ‘war of attrition’ Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Championship Final St Faithleach’s 1-8 St Dominic’s 0-7 (after extra-time) < SEAMUS DUKE

St. Faithleach’s will play in the Roscommon Senior Football Championship in 2022 following their four-point win against St. Dominic’s at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday (1-8 to 0-7). But behind that final score is a story of one of the most forgettable IFC finals in recent memory.

The quality of the match was not helped by very difficult conditions – with heavy rain showers and a blustery wind – but another major factor was a controversial, and at times bewildering, refereeing performance

from Gerry Carmody, which meant that the game was littered with stoppages from start to finish.

It ended in controversy with three players being shown red cards (Mark Miley and Darren Dolan of St. Dominic’s and James Browne from St. Faithleach’s) while St. Dominic’s’ Daire Keenan was shown a black card after a skirmish involving players from both sides. Indeed before it was over, St. Faithleach’s’ Mikey Dunne was also shown a black card for a tackle on Tommy Hurley.

It was a breathless St. Faithleach’s manager Wally Burke, who looked drained but relieved after such an intense battle.

“It’s all about winning. It was a war of attrition. There was definitely a fear factor at the start, but I don’t think people probably realise how bad conditions were. There were serious hits out there. The quality mightn’t have been great but there was plenty of excitement, that’s for sure. It was dour and I’m not sure what any neutral might have made of it. Finals are for winning though, and that’s what we’ve done,” he said.

There were so many stoppages that the game (which threw in at 3 pm)

wasn’t over until 5.31 pm and in a first half that lasted almost 40 minutes, the ball was in play for just a small fraction of that time.

When football did break out, a welltaken goal from Cathal Gunn in the 78th minute eventually settled the issue. In a game where the margins were so tight, a goal was always going to be a decisive score and so it proved.

In driving rain, the conditions were very difficult and scores were scarcer than hens’ teeth in the opening half.

Diarmuid Murtagh scored a fine point in the first minute but with the game marred by stoppages, it was 13 minutes before we saw the next score, a converted free from Ciaráin Murtagh.

The first of many controversial incidents occurred in the 17th minute.

Keith Doyle (who started for Dominic’s after being an injury concern) and Daire Keenan did the spadework before Paddy Fallon fisted to the Faithleach’s net. But referee Carmody called the play back for a foul in the build-up, much to the consternation of the Dominic’s players who felt he should have played an advantage. Patrick Farrell was shown a black card for his foul and Daire Keenan pointed the resultant free.

St Faithleach’s celebrate their win at the presentation following Sunday’s IFC final against St Dominic’s at Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Playing with the aid of the elements, it took Dominic’s until injury-time to score again when Eoin McCormack and David Gately were on target. By the time the half-time whistle went, it was St. Dominic’s 0-3 St. Faithleach’s 0-2.

Four points in the opening six minutes of the second half (three for St Faithleach’s) suggested that we could actually have a game of football, but unfortunately that was as good as it was going to get. Connell Kennelly (who was Faithleach’s best player) was on target with a mark and from play, while Jonathan Hussey added to their total with a Daire Keenan pointed free being Dominic’s’ only reply.

In the 41st minute, Diarmuid Murtagh’s long-range free was fisted against the post by Kennelly, but the game was now once again littered with stoppages. In the 46th minute another Keenan free levelled the scores and as the final whistle came closer the exchanges became even more tense and tetchy. Conor Fallon then pointed a 25-metre free in the 52nd minute to edge his side ahead.

Then, in the 59th minute, Ciaráin Murtagh levelled again with another pointed free and with the sides tied at 0-6 each we were headed for extratime.

Conor Fallon scored probably the best point of the game in the first minute of extra-time but Faithleach’s dug in and Ciaráin Murtagh took an excellent mark and point in the 6th minute, and in injury-time the same player pointed a free from 25 metres to edge his side ahead 0-8 to 0-7 by the midway point.

As the tension rose, the tackles were flying in as the game progressed and there was a sense that the referee had lost control. In fairness to Faithleach’s, Cathal Gunn kept his cool in the 8th minute to fire past Mark Miley for a fine goal.

But then there was a flashpoint close to the stand side as players from both sides became embroiled in a melee.

When the dust settled, referee Carmody issued three straight reds and a black. It was a chaotic end to a chaotic match.

However, the poor quality of the game won’t bother the (continued overleaf)

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Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SportsPeople

St Faithleach’s players pictured celebrating their win over St Dominic’s in the Roscommon IFC final at Hyde Park on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

St. Faithleach’s men one little bit.

They set out at the start of the year to return to senior football and they have achieved that aim. Darren Nerney, Adrian Murtagh, Connell Kennelly, Cathal Gunn, substitute James Browne and Diarmuid Murtagh were their best players in very difficult conditions.

Manager Wally Burke was sympathetic towards the officials at the fulltime whistle.

“To be fair to the referee, it was a very tough job. There was nothing in it throughout and then at the end there were a couple of flashpoints. That’s what you expect. I couldn’t fault the referee or his officials because it’s a terribly difficult job in those conditions,” he concluded.

St. Dominic’s will be heartbroken after this painful defeat, the second year in a row in which they have lost out after extra-time. They will feel hard done by after such a controversial encounter but the Knockcroghery club will just have to dust themselves down and return next year. Kyran Dockery, Eoin McCormack, Paddy Fallon and

Tommy Hurley were all excellent and on another day Hurley would have been the man of the match, such was his industry and workrate throughout.

Note: A minute’s silence was observed prior to the throw-in in memory of St. Faithleach’s club stalwart Gerry Thompson who passed away on Saturday evening.

St. Faithleach’s: Alan Manning; Karl Nerney, Mickey Cox, Adrian Murtagh; Patrick Farrell, Darren Ner-

ney, David Harrison; David Rooney, Conall Kennelly (0-2, 1 mark); Kevin Farrell, Ciaráin Murtagh (0-4, 3 frees, 1 mark), Cathal Gunn (1-0); Mikey Dunne, Diarmuid Murtagh (0-1), Jonathan Hussey (0-1). Subs: James Browne for K Nerney (35), Stephen Walsh for Hussey (48), Brian Murtagh

Stat Attack

Wides: St Faithleach’s 7; St Dominic’s 8 Red cards: St Faithleach’s 1 (James Browne, 81) St Dominic’s 2 (Mark Miley, Darren Dolan, both 81) Black cards: St Faithleach’s 2 (Patrick Farrell, 17, Mikey Dunne, 86); St Dominic’s 1 (Daire Keenan, 81) Yellow cards: St Faithleach’s 3 (David Harrison, Connell Kennelly, Karl Nerney); St Dominic’s 2 (Eoin McCormack, Declan Dowling) Man of the Match: Connell Kennelly (St Faithleach’s)

Action from the Roscommon IFC final between St Faithleach’s and St Dominic’s at Hyde Park on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

for A Murtagh (55), James Quigley for Harrison (60 +5), Stephen Ormsby for D Murtagh (82).

St. Dominic’s: Mark Miley; Micheal Byrne, Michael Feely, Kyran Dockery; Cian Kelly, Eoin McCormack (0-1), Brendan O’Meara; Jack Lohan, Tom Appleby; Paddy Fal-

lon, Daire Keenan (0-3, frees), David Gately (0-1); Conor Fallon (0-2, 1 free), Keith Doyle, Tommy Hurley.

Subs: Darren Dolan for Appleby (36), Declan Dowling for Gately (52), Ronan Morris for Kelly (69), Sean Kenny for Feely (75).

Referee: Gerry Carmody.

54

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

SportsPeople

DIARMUID: ‘Our workrate won it for us’ < SEAMUS DUKE

County Board chairperson Brian Carroll presents the cup! Photo: Mick McCormack

St Faithleach’s win: Stephen, Emma and Lottie Ormsby celebrate at the final whistle. Photo: Mick McCormack

As he clutched the Jimmy Murray Cup after the match, a delighted Faithleach’s captain Diarmuid Murtagh told the media that he knew that the final would be a very tight affair.

“From a neutral’s point of view, the game wasn’t a classic, but we’re delighted. We knew it was going to be tight. They had beaten

us last year and we drew earlier in the year.

“We knew that we were going to have to be at our best to beat them. We’re just thrilled to get over the line. I’d say to Dominic’s that their day is going to come.

They’re a senior team. You see what Oran did this year,” he said.

Diarmuid said that Faithleach’s victory was down to workrate and leadership from several players.

“It wasn’t my best game by any means, but that’s why you have a panel. The workrate was brilliant. Connell Kennelly really stood up for us today. He plays hurling with a lot of Dominic’s lads, so obviously it was tough for him playing against some of his friends. But he really stood up for us today, as all the lads did,” he said.

Supporters pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the Roscommon Intermediate Football final between St Faithleach’s and St Dominic’s. Photo: Mick McCormack

St Faithleach’s players pictured celebrating their win over St Dominic’s in the Roscommon IFC final at Hyde Park on Sunday. Pic: Mick McCormack

Wally Burke (right), manager of St Faithleach’s, is congratulated at the final whistle as the celebrations begin after his team’s victory over St Dominic’s in Sunday’s County Intermediate Football final. Photo: Mick McCormack

<< Weekend Rewind

Roscommon People Friday 29 October 2021

The

THE KNOW-ALL

PUNDIT...

Well, what did you make of the big game?

Well, like I was saying last week...a tight game...

Hold it right there!

What?

You were predicting a free-flowing classic!

Ah, but the conditions, my friend...the conditions...

You’re blaming the weather for the disappointing fare in the Intermediate Football final?

Well, it didn’t help...and I did say here last week that it would be tight, that the hungriest team would win...

You inferred it would be a classic!

Yeah, but the weather...the weather, the damned weather!

Anyways, it might have been a poor game, but they’re two great teams. Congratulations to St Faithleach’s and hard luck to St Dominic’s.

Agreed! And I’m so glad I called it right...a very tight game!

You didn’t! You inferred a classic!

Stop using that word!

Classic?

No! Inferred!

Now you’re blaming the weather for your useless analysis!

Excuse me!

What about the referee? There has been some criticism...

I never criticise referees! It’s a tough job...

I actually agree with you, and all our referees in Roscommon are good GAA people who do their very best...

Yes! But I take issue with you saying you NEVER criticise refs. That’s a joke!

Huh? I take issue with you taking issue...

Remember that time you were sent to the stand because you were verbally abusing the ref?

Oh well ahem (splutters)...

And it made the national newspapers, and TV 3...

ENOUGH! And Liveline and Sky Sports...

PLEASE! It was disgraceful! All the invective you hurled at that poor ref a few years ago! He had no option but to send you to the stand! So embarrassing!

Please! Not here! Not in Roscommon’s most widely read newspaper! Not in front of the readers...!

SO embarrassing!

Look, I’m not the first person at a GAA match who lost their temper, had a go at the ref, and got sent to the stands! It didn’t merit Liveline!

But you...

DON’T SAY IT! You were one of his linesmen, for God’s sake!

GAA Studio

Weekend Fast-forward

Big prizes up for grabs this weekend!

After last week’s dramatic and controversial Roscommon Intermediate Football final, attention turns this weekend to a number of further major fixtures.

The County Senior Football final sees Clann na nGael and Padraig Pearses meeting in what promises to be a fascinating clash at Dr Hyde Park (2 pm on Sunday). We have an 8-page

preview in the centre of today’s Roscommon People.

Meanwhile on Saturday (at Ballyleague, 2.30 pm) six-in-arow chasing Kilbride face an ever-improving Clann na nGael in the Roscommon Ladies Senior Football Championship final.

The Roscommon Senior Camogie Final between Athleague and St Dominic’s will be

played in Ballyforan on Saturday (3 pm).

Also on Saturday, the Roscommon Junior FC final takes place, St. Brigid’s playing Padraig Pearses in Dr Hyde Park (3.30 pm). See previews of all major games in today’s Roscommon People.

Also, see our special atmosphere-setting video on Clann v

Padraig Pearses (available on our social channels, including Roscommon People YouTube page).

Best of luck to all teams in action this weekend. Top coverage of all the thrills and spills in your free (and favourite) local newspaper! We’re free, we’re locally owned, and we’re proud to support Roscommon GAA!

Supporters pictured at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday for the Roscommon Intermediate Football final between St Faithleach’s and St Dominic’s. Photos: Mick McCormack

O’Halloran takes over hurlers

HOW IT’S GOING… Mulryan Construction IFC Final St Faithleach’s 1-8 St Dominic’s 0-7 AFL Division Four Play-off St Ronan’s 1-12 St Joseph’s 2-5 Junior B FC (Group A) St Aidan’s w/o v Kilbride Fuerty 2-7 St Dominic’s 0-6 Junior B FC (Group B) Clann na nGael 1-9 Oran 0-3 Shannon Gaels 2-8 Michael Glavey’s 0-8 Junior B FC (Group C) St Brigid’s 1-11 Roscommon Gaels 1-8 St Faithleach’s w/o v Kilglass Gaels

>>

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Pictured at the launch of ‘Our Field of Dreams’ (a book on GAA legends) in the Athlone Springs Hotel last Friday night were special guest Dr. Con Murphy and Martin Breheny (Irish Independent columnist and veteran GAA writer). Pic: Mick McCormack

Francis O’Halloran has been announced as the new manager of the Roscommon senior hurlers, following a meeting of the county’s Hurling Committee earlier this week.

The Ruan, Co. Clare native has coached both the Banner County’s U-21 and senior teams as well as coaching and managing Mary Immaculate College in 2016.

His backroom team will consist of former Clare hurler Tommy Guilfoyle, Tipperary native Shane Nolan, and strength and conditioning coach, Steve Cusack.

Following the appointment, Roscommon Hurling Chairperson Christy McDermott said: “I am very pleased with Francis’ appointment and I look forward to the new management team and players, with the support of Roscommon GAA, being able to progress Roscommon hurling so that we are in a position to compete for silverware”.

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Roscommon People Friday 22 October 2021