30 April 2021 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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Grandchildren Inheritance I would like your advice please about something that is bothering me. I am a widower and made a will a few years ago leaving everything I own to my five children equally. One of my children is now sadly very ill. If my child dies before me, I would like for my grandchildren to inherit her share. Will this happen automatically and if not, who will inherit this portion of my estate? Normally when a beneficiary (person receiving the inheritance) pre-deceases a Testator (person who makes a will) the gift will lapse and fail. However, an exception to this rule is contained within Section 98 of the Succession Act 1965. Section 98 provides that where a child pre-deceases a testator leaving children and such children are living at the time of the death of the testator the bequest shall not lapse. Therefore, in your situation if your child predeceases you leaving grandchildren, the benefit that would have been received by your child is preserved and will pass to your deceased’s child’s estate. It is important to note that the bequest will go to your deceased’s child’s estate and not necessarily to your grandchildren. The bequest will be divided in accordance with the terms set out in your deceased child’s will. Example: Your child sadly dies before you leaving two children. She has made a will leaving her entire estate to her husband. Your bequest to her will not lapse by virtue of the fact she left children but this bequest will go to her husband under the terms of her will.

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Missing those tricky Dingbats… and Dastardly and Muttley! Dingbats… Wha’? Dingbats. You know… I don’t know! Or classic cartoon characters… Huh? Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Dastardly and Muttley… What are you talking about? The novelty rounds in pub quizzes! That’s what I miss! You asked me what I miss… Oh…alright.

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to see if they can picture either Dastardly or Muttley…) Seeing a friend in a pub, saying goodnight to them, moving on to another pub and then sheepishly grinning when they come into THAT pub twenty minutes later… You miss that too? Yep! Now…your turn! Ah, the slagging after a match. Like when we’d go into the bar and have a quiet pint or two, and fair enough we’d analyse the game…but there was nothing like the craic when three or four of the opposition crowd came in… after we’d beaten them, of course! Such slagging! Time stood still… Yeah, something like that! (They pause to recall with nostalgia those far-off days when quizmasters appealed for all mobile phones to be switched off) An impromptu singsong… Really? Well, if you insist… No! I’m still talking about things we miss… Oh right… You know, when it got to 11 o’clock on

a lively night, maybe even midnight, everyone’s talked out, and all of a sudden… Yeah… Someone starts up ‘In My Memory...’ Ah, magic… And you’d ask Mike in the corner to give us one, you’d say ‘you’re up next Mike…’ And he puts his finger up to his mouth, shakes his head, acts all alarmed… And him mad to sing… Yeah, half an hour later, he’s done Garth Brooks, Neil Diamond and Elvis… Great nights! (They pause to reflect with nostalgia on the epic Garth Brooks years…BC – before Croker) The late pint… Huh? I miss the late pint, the one you

What we liked…

The beautiful weather of recent days lifted the spirits of people.

If you wish for your grandchildren to inherit rather than for the bequest to pass to your child’s estate then it would be important to update your will providing that such a bequest would pass to your grandchildren.

What we didn’t like…

The loss of Euro 2020 games which were scheduled to be held in Dublin – while understandable – was a stark reminder of the economic and societal impact of Covid-19. (The games will be played in London and Saint Petersburg in Russia after the FAI and the Government were unable to guarantee spectator attendance in Dublin).

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. 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

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didn’t think you’d have! Or get? Yeah! A random game of pool, late into the night, maybe for a fiver… With a ‘debate’ over the rules? Yep! Meeting an old friend…someone you haven’t met in twenty years or more…they’re in America or England now. Your lives have gone in separate directions, and yet memories come flooding back when you meet at the counter… Yeah… Flicking a beermat, maybe even tearing it up, as the barperson slowly and lovingly finishes your pint, giving it time to settle, giving you time to savour… A GAA match – or soccer, or rugby – on the TV, and you in the company of friends… A quiet midweek pint, when you meet two or three people at the counter and just have a nice chat about ordinary things… Beautiful. When the club lotto ticket sellers come around, and you very willingly contribute, a real sense of community prevailing… Three elderly men at the counter with slightly weather-beaten faces ruthlessly but good-humouredly slagging all around them…no place for the excessively thin-skinned! Just pulling up a stool, ordering a pint, having a look around, waiting for the wonder of the night to reveal itself… Yeah, so much that we miss, so much to look forward to! Agreed! Hey, before we finish, just one question… Yep? Which one was Dastardly, which one was Muttley?

PIC OF THE WEEK: Cian Farrell and Josie Bishop enjoying the good weather on Errit Lake, Gortaganny, Co. Roscommon on Sunday. Photograph: Michael McCormack

Great weather last weekend; The return of golf on Monday last (and further easing of restrictions); Chaos in India as the pandemic spirals out of control…

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Ivan bows out…but won’t rule out a comeback! < DAN DOONER

Former Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Ivan Connaughton, officially resigned from the local authority at Monday’s monthly meeting but refused to rule out a return to politics at a later date. The Independent councillor, who will be replaced by 21-year-old Ballyforan woman, Emer Kelly, told Monday’s online meeting that he had experienced plenty of highs and lows since first being elected in 2014. “A councillor may not get thanked in the community by many but it’s important that people and communities are represented even though the powers that be, through legislative measures up in Dublin, are taking some of the power away, which is something I don’t agree with,” he said. Among his highlights as an elected representative, Connaughton mentioned representing Roscommon as Cathaoirleach in New York and as part of a delegation to China in 2018. He said he was also honoured to accompany the late Cloverhill woman, Tracey Brennan (neé O’Hara), when she and fellow Pembro drug campaigners visited Leinster House. “When I was asked to

accompany the late Tracey O’Hara as Roscommon’s first citizen when she, Vicky Phelan and Áine Morgan were lobbying the Government for the Pembro drug in Leinster House. “To listen to their stories and how open and frank they were, it really opened my eyes and it was a long journey back to Roscommon that night but a huge honour,” he said. The Athleague native admitted, however, that he wouldn’t miss the “rhetoric of meetings”. “Particularly when the media is present…and the issues that are raised continuously at meetings. Maybe there’s a process where engineers and staff could be contacted in advance for many issues,” he said while also admitting that he had grown “disillusioned” by the amount of red tape, both at local and national level. “(Such as) the restriction of emergency works at Lough Funshinagh and my proposal at the March meeting, to bring in an expert to give a presentation on pumping, which wasn’t supported by the executive and some of the members. That really put the tin hat on me making my decision. Maybe I would have seen out the term only for that. “I didn’t get the support but it’s not sour grapes. When I meet you all I’ll wish you well and I might be working on projects with some of you and I will continue

that for the betterment and promotion of Roscommon as I’ll always do,” he said. He did, however, call for more people with differing backgrounds to be given an opportunity but didn’t think such a move was possible under the current system. “There is definitely change needed and I know some of the councillors might not like to hear that,” he said. Mr. Connaughon said he was pleased that the committee put in place to find his successor had chosen young Ballyforan woman, Emer Kelly. “While I was the youngest person on the council at 38 years of age, my committee have gone 17 years younger and they have selected a 21-year-old by the name of Emer Kelly from Ballyforan. “Emer has a bright future in politics, as you will see when you get to know her. I have no doubt that she’ll be a role model for the next generation and I’ve no doubt that the experience she gets will stand to her when she makes the natural progression to Leinster House,” he said. The popular auctioneer added that business was only part of his reason for stepping down and said that now he would have more time to work in his own community. “I want to thank the executive present and past of Roscommon County Council, all staff members

Ivan Connaughton.

both indoor and outdoor, the current members and the members I served with prior to the last election. I also want to thank my canvassers and those who have supported me. “I wish the executive and members all the best going forward. A week is a long time in politics and a month can be a very quick time in politics. I once told Majella Hunt that I’d be retired out of Roscommon County Council before she was and I’ve kept to that commitment! “I was involved in my own father’s election when I was 16 back in 1998, when I was director of elections for that campaign and for two elections after that. I also worked on General Election campaigns for Michael Finneran and for myself and Deputy

Michael Fitzmaurice. It has been a great education and it has been a huge asset to me that I was a county councillor. “Unfortunately, I’m leaving under these circumstances but on a bright note, there’s a younger person getting involved. When you talk about female participation in politics, at least there’s a female representative in the Athlone Municipal District when the process is complete”. As for a potential return to the ballot at a later date, the Athleague man said it was “very unlikely” but refused to rule anything out. “Anyone who knows me, it’s very easy to say that I could make a quick decision and enter political arena in future. I’ll rule nothing in and I’ll rule nothing out!”

Members pay tribute but expect a return < DAN DOONER

The Roscommon County Council executive and elected members paid glowing tributes to outgoing Independent councillor Ivan Connaughton during Monday’s meeting with many expressing their belief that a return to the political arena was still on the cards. Cathaoirleach Laurence Fallon thanked Ivan and the Connaughton family, including Ivan’s father and former Cathaoirleach, Martin, for their hard work over the years. “Any position you were in you carried the county well and you gave a very good example of what the county is about. I’ve always found you a team player and someone who worked for the betterment of the county. I want to wish you well in the future and congratulate you on your choice of successor because youth and women are underrepresented sectors on the council,” he said.

Fianna Fáil councillor John Cummins said Ivan and his father, Martin, had different styles but the common bond was a passion to represent the people on the ground. “I wish you well but I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Connaughton name on a ballot again,” he said. Fellow Fianna Fáil councillor, Orla Leyden, echoed those sentiments: “It’s a huge loss to the area,” she said, “I regret your decision to retire but we all have our lives to live. It’s interesting that you haven’t ruled the Dáil out”. Fine Gael councillor Liam Callaghan said he had always earmarked Mr. Connaughton for “higher office”. “I’m sure there will be further opportunities. I agree with you that our meetings can be repetitive – it’s like a mini-Dáil Éireann here,” he said. Independent councillor Nigel Dineen said Ivan would be “sore-

ly missed” and said it hopefully wouldn’t be the last time to see “a Connaughton in the Chamber or in the Dáil”. Fellow Independent, Tom Crosby, was surprised by Ivan’s decision but also hinted at a return. “This came as a surprise to me. I’ve no doubt that we’ll see you back on the ticket and possibly in Dáil Éireann. You have the ability and you have proven that”. Cllr. Valerie Byrne praised Ivan for his support over the years while Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice suggested the Athleague man would be needed elsewhere. “I’m sorry to see you leave…but now you have more time to help Martin with pulling lambs!” Cllr. Connaugton’s last act as an elected member was to propose the introduction of an independent beef regulator to ensure fairer prices for farmers. The motion received wide support in the Chamber.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Covid cases remain low in Roscommon

Naughten raises housebound vaccine concerns < DAN DOONER

Independent TD Denis Naughten.

There were fewer than five cases of Covid-19 confirmed in County Roscommon yesterday (Wednesday) as the county continues on its encouraging recent trend. As of Tuesday (27th), Roscommon’s 14-day incidence rate per 100,000 of the population was 60.4, less than half the national average of 121.2. The five-day moving average was just two, and in the 14 days leading up to yesterday, 39 new cases had been confirmed in the county. Nationally, there were sadly 13 additional deaths related to the disease and a further 371 confirmed cases. Of the deaths, three occurred in April, three in March, and seven occurred in February of earlier. The median age of those who died was 85 while the age range was 60 to 95. As of last Monday (26th), there have been 1,417,942 doses of Covid-19 vaccine administered in Ireland. 1,014,640 people have now received their first dose while 403,302 have received their second. Meanwhile, local Independent TD Denis Naughten has said that up to 1,100 appointments by the National Ambulance

Service for people over the age of 70 were unaccounted for, according to evidence presented in the Dáil on Thursday last. The service was expected to be ramped up this week. “The figures presented to the Dáil by Minister Mary Butler, Minister for Older People, do not add up and are also at variance with information provided directly by the HSE, resulting in a minimum of 600 to 1,100 vaccination appointments being unaccounted for. This is enough to ensure that every housebound person could have received their initial vaccination by now,” Deputy Naughten said. The Independent TD claimed that the HSE had told his colleague, Cllr. Dr. Evelyn Parson, on March 31st, that there were 2,700 initial referrals by GPs for home vaccination and this was likely to reduce after validation. “However, Minister Butler told the Dáil (on Thursday last) that 3,200 initial referrals were made and that the figure subsequently went up. This is a minimum discrepancy of 500 initial referrals. Both figures cannot be correct. “Secondly, based on the estimate provided to the Dáil, the ambulance service should have

undertaken 2,400 appointments in the last six weeks. In other words, the dedicated ambulance vaccination crews should have physically attended 2,400 homes. “Minister Butler told the Dáil that the HSE has offered just 1,800 appointments, and that these offers may not all be taken up for a range of reasons, including refusal or a person entering

long-term care or being unwell. This is a minimum discrepancy of 600 appointments. “These two figures alone, without even considering appointments cancelled, would have generated an additional 1,100 appointments - enough to ensure that every person waiting for their first vaccine jab would have received it by now,” Deputy Naughten said.

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PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday On Liveline, a woman who rang in about betting with the bookies on what Lotto numbers might come up suddenly starts chatting to someone in her house. Joe reminds her that she’s on national radio. The lady matter of factly explains that she was conversing with “the gas man”. Cue a fit of laughter from Joe. Later (with the gas man gone) Joe and the caller reminisce about the old days, when coins were put into meters to maintain the gas supply and even to keep the TV going. A man calls in to say that his family used to rent a transistor radio. I’m much too young to remember such scrambling for shillings, but when I briefly worked for a ‘TV repair shop’ in the 1980s, people were still renting TVs. My stint with Vincent Beirne in Strokestown was a series of escapades (as recounted in my book, Nothing About Sheep Stealing). Vincent quickly discovered that I wasn’t a natural on the roof (fixing TV aerials) or on ground either (selling or repairing TVs). Before we parted company (amicably), poor Vincent put me on the road…to deliver TVs, and to collect rent. As recalled, very fondly and (if I say so myself) self-deprecatingly in my book, returning repaired TVs did not pass without incident. But surely collecting rent from clients would be straightforward? In Carrick, I called to a house and told the lady I was here to collect the rent for the TV. “But there was a man here to collect it last week” she announced. Next house, same story. It transpired that a conman had been masquerading as a TV rent collector for a few weeks, and had helped himself to a tidy amount of ‘our’ money. My ‘career in TV’ was jinxed!

Friday Tom Jones is on the Late Late, but I’m sticking with the snooker. Even if Ryan Tubridy joins Tom in a duet to sing Sex Bomb, I’m not switching over. At the Crucible, defending world champion and long-time moody genius Ronnie O’Sullivan is 10-6 down to Anthony McGill in their ‘Best of 25’ round two clash. When the evening session begins – and entirely predictably – O’Sullivan breaks from the starting stalls in a flurry of superb potting. McGill, who had been brilliant in the morning session, now sits forlorn in his chair, frozen out, snooker’s unique capacity to torture innocent men manifesting itself again. The ageless O’Sullivan reels his opponent back in, as only he can. He is chasing a seventh world title, a feat that would draw him up to the shoulders of Stephen Hendry.

for any semblance of comfort. I win the subsequent stand-off, and within a minute or two the inquisitive wasp is gone, presumably back outside through one of our open doors. Meanwhile, the gorgeous weather of the last few days is a very welcome lift for a pandemic-weary public. Hopefully the first taste of a glorious summer, wasps and all!

Sunday I haven’t followed the developing Dominic v Boris soap opera across the water, but I gather that the mad scientist (Dominic Cummins) who part-created Boris in a very plush lab has now turned against his slightly wildhaired former boss. I must catch up on what’s been happening. There’s a clever headline in today’s Sunday Times which suggests that Cummins is not a man one should fall out with: ‘No 10 started a petrol fight with an arsonist. Did no one tell the PM he would get burnt?’ Fantastic photograph of the aerial view of Main Street, Roscommon taken by Damien Hogan, Bird’s Eye View Photography.

11-11, then O’Sullivan moves 12-11 ahead. McGill cuts a lonely figure, the fans cheering O’Sullivan on. The underdog then produces a wonderful 136 break to set up a final-frame decider. O’Sullivan takes control, purring around the table. Then, an uncharacteristic miss, and McGill has a chance. He holds his nerve and edges the match 13-12, an epic win for him. The defending champion is out. He is extremely gracious, wishing McGill well. The remainder of the World Snooker Championship won’t be the same without O’Sullivan, but the Crucible Theatre has again proven itself to be a cauldron of sporting drama.

around 1 pm). One wonders who is in these planes, and where they’re going. I resisted the temptation to contact Deputy Danny Healy-Rae to advise that neither plane watered our plants (this is a topical reference to the colourful Kerry TD complaining – during a press conference on Climate Action – about planes “peeing down on top of us”). In some sort of coincidence, later (at 8.30 pm) four small low-flying planes pass over our house. It’s quite a spectacular and unusual sight, certainly in these parts. Presumably they are members of a Flying Club who couldn’t resist taking an outing in the fine weather. Or maybe it’s the assembled Healy-Raes on a fact-finding mission.

Saturday

Also on Saturday

Up to ten or maybe fifteen years ago it was almost a novelty to see an airplane passing over Roscommon, its contrails (those streaks of white) remaining in the sky for some time after. In recent years, it’s obvious that Roscommon has become a flight path regular. Before the pandemic, it wasn’t unusual for dozens of flights to appear in the sky above our house (a mile or so outside Roscommon town) over the course of a single day. As a nervous flyer, I concluded long ago that these planes were flying far too close together, but I presume that this is an illusion/the powers that be know what they’re doing! Naturally, the plane sightings have decreased significantly since the pandemic started, but while mowing the grass today, I noticed those familiar trails of white, as two planes passed overhead (at

It must be an Irish thing…when a scorcher of a day comes along, especially if it’s a Saturday, we open all the doors in the house! As this glorious afternoon struts its stuff, with military precision (and what will probably be short-lived enthusiasm), we’re into car cleaning, window polishing, shed tidying mode…well, for an hour or two at least. I’m sure it’s the same in many other households. There is however an immediate fall-out from the ‘open doors’ policy. The first wasp of the year (that I’ve seen) has suddenly appeared in the kitchen, where I’m taking a coffee break. It’s a whopper, a beast of a wasp, like it’s been sent out by its family to lay down some kind of marker. I normally pass little heed on wasps, but this brute is circling the laptop as I write. Too close

Monday As I approach Kilglass Gaels GAA grounds on the way to Rooskey, there’s suddenly a stunning, almost emotional sight…(over the walls)…children playing football. The vehicles in the carpark are confirmation of the return, this evening, of underage GAA training. Similar wonderful scenes are unfolding elsewhere in our county, and nationwide. It is extremely heartening.

Tuesday The Main Street of our great county town is currently an extraordinary sight. Its innards exposed as perhaps never before, the surface has been uprooted as part of major works under the Public Realm Enhancement project. A friend said: “This is almost a ‘do you remember when?’ moment which today’s generation will tell their grandchildren about…” A more short-term consideration is the impact on businesses which are already suffering due to the pandemic. Some will say that this was the best possible time for the works to be undertaken, but certainly traders are feeling a major pinch just now. From a visual point of view, the street is certainly an extraordinary sight. Provision has been made to allow people to walk the footpaths (and access those stores that are open). There is a certain fascination in seeing the street so exposed, not least following fascinating discoveries of archaeological interest (Roscommon People 16 April edition). We’ll keep readers posted on this aspect of the works over the coming weeks and months.

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Access concerns raised over Main Street works < DAN DOONER

Local business owners have this week raised concerns over access to Main Street in Roscommon town for older pedestrians and those with disabilities as Public Realm Enhancement works gather pace in the county town. While reaction to the works to transform Main Street and The Square has been mostly positive from business owners, there are reservations that the extensive roadworks have made life difficult for some shoppers and residents. Local butcher, Tom Madden, was impressed with the progress of works so far but highlighted issues faced by some pedestrians. “The progress the workers are making is something else and it’s going to be a fabulous job once it’s finished, but I would

like to see more access for older people and those with disabilities,” he said. “We are still in level five lockdown and some of the older people only get out once a week to collect their pensions, go to the bank and get some shopping. You also have to consider that this will be going on for a few months. I see some older people being linked by family members and they’re finding it hard to get around the town. Some people even come into the shop here to take a break from the walking,” he said. Proprietor of Time Pieces, Lorna Brennan, also praised the progress but echoed concerns regarding access for older pedestrians and those with disabilities. “It’s clear that they have made tremendous progress on Main Street and that’s great to see. I had initially objected to the

works due to my concerns regarding the two-way traffic plan, and while I am still concerned about losing the free-flowing element to the town and the amount of access for shoppers, I am much more optimistic. My main hope is that the development is progress and not a step backwards,” she said. “Access is my main concern and I hope that the footpaths are wide enough and that there aren’t any hazards for wheelchair users or older people. I am looking forward to seeing the end result though, and hope that it’s as beneficial and progressive as hoped for the people who live, work and shop here,” she said. Local Independent councillor Kathleen Shanagher spoke to the Roscommon People yesterday in order to allay fears. “I do acknowledge that it can be quite difficult

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due to the works on Main Street but the footpath remains the same and there’s no difference really apart from when crossing the street. “There is access to businesses on lower Main Street from Church Street and that may be a more convenient route for shoppers. “Local business representatives meet on the first Thursday of every month and I will raise these concerns at the next meeting which is Thursday, May 6th. I would encourage any business owners who have concerns to raise them at next week’s meeting. The engineers will listen and take any concerns on board (and have already made efforts to assist pedestrian traffic). “The new footpaths are in place near Chapel Lane and works are progressing well,” she said. Cllr. Shanagher reas-

sured business owners that parking spaces would still be available on Main Street when works were completed and that signage will be put in place to direct visitors and shoppers to businesses located off the Main Street.

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The Public Realm Enhancement works are ongoing on Main Street in Roscommon town. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Elphin family seeks Government assistance as husband detained in Iraq < DAN DOONER

Australian engineer, Robert Pether, whose family live in the Elphin area, was detained in Iraq earlier this month.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, to intervene in the case of a man with strong links to Elphin who has been detained in Iraq. Robert Pether, an engineer from Sydney and whose wife and children are residents in Elphin, Co. Roscommon, was detained in Baghdad on April 7th. Senator Murphy, who

raised the issue in the Seanad on Monday last, said Mr. Pether had been detained with no explanation and has had no contact with his wife and three children, all of whom are Irish citizens. “Robert Pether was arrested on April 7th when he arrived at a meeting with his client, the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad. “Mr. Pether’s wife, Desree, is distraught. She and her three children are Irish citizens and they have

been living in Elphin for the past number of years and often travel to be with Mr. Pether at his job sites while he also visits his family in Roscommon. “Mr. Pether is held in high regard in the Elphin community, and everyone is anxious to see him released,” Senator Murphy said. Mr. Pether is said to have worked on a number of rebuilding projects in war-torn parts of the Middle East over the past ten

years and regularly travels between Iraq, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Bahrain as part of his job. “I understand that while working on site in Dubai, Mr. Pether and his manager were contacted by the Central Bank of Iraq, which demanded they return immediately for a meeting to resolve a dispute about a new building project in Baghdad. “When they arrived, they were immediately taken into custody and I under-

stand that both men are now in solitary confinement but are being treated well. It seems to be some sort of contractual dispute and Mr. Pether has unfortunately become caught in the middle,” Senator Murphy added. The Fianna Fáil Senator said that Mr. Pether would regularly contact his family several times a day and that his wife was only made aware of his detention after speaking with her husband’s company.

No support for Lough Funshinagh farmers unacceptable - Kerrane Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said it is unacceptable that no supports have been put in place for farmers affected by flooding at Lough Funshinagh. Deputy Kerrane said: “I wrote to the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue months ago about the need for supports for farmers affected by flooding at historic levels at Lough Funshinagh. This was after I raised this with the Minister on the floor of the Dáil without reply. However, eventually, I have received confirmation that no such supports are available, nor are there plans to provide support. This is entirely unacceptable. “While many farmers are now letting cattle and sheep out, especially new-born calves and lambs, farmlands around Lough Funshinagh remain under water, and have been at this stage for months. The very least farmers deserve are some supports in looking after their livestock, which remain housed, and need to be fed for longer as silage pits typically run out at this time of the year. “The Minister for Agriculture needs to step up and support farmers affected by the flooding of Lough Funshinagh. It has never been as bad, and yet this Government are standing idly by. I will continue to push for this”.

Fitzmaurice welcomes installation of radar speed signs Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice has welcomed the installation of radar speed signs in Loughglynn village this week. “I have been informed of high speed through Loughglynn Village and past the local school. These signs, along with measures that will come into place under the Active Travel funding for the village, will help make the area safer for all pedestrians and school children,” he said. “The village has a lot to offer, and we will keep trying to get funding for all our villages to help rejuvenate them and make them better places to live”.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Walk-in Covid test centre opens in Castlerea < DAN DOONER

A walk-in Covid test centre will be in operation until Tuesday next (May 4th) from 10 am to 7.30 pm each day. This ‘no appointment necessary’ service will operate alongside the current testing service for those who are referred for a Covid-19 test by their GP. Commenting, Niamh O’Beirne, the HSE’s National Lead for Test and Trace said: “As of April 22nd, over 40,000 people have had a Covid-19 test in one of our walk-in centres. The overall positivity rate to date is 3.3% which equates to 1,261 people testing positive for Covid-19 as a result of getting a test in one of the HSE’s walkin test centres. This programme of targeted testing of asymptomatic people across many communities has meant that those who have tested positive for Covid-19 can take the necessary actions to protect those around them”. The test centre in Castlerea is open for walk-in appointments for those aged 16 years and over, who do not have symptoms of Covid-19 and who have not tested positive for Covid-19 in the last six months. Members of the public must bring a photo ID to the centre as well as a mobile phone number in order to be contacted with test results. Social distancing measures will apply and if waiting times are too long, people are welcome to return at a later time.

newsbriefs Virtual events for Community Games 2021 Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, a number of Ballaghaderreen Community Games events will move online for 2021, and the games are now open for virtual entries! Children can now take part in seven virtual events including music, dance, art, handwriting, recitation, model making, and singing. To register, go to www. mycommunitygames.com and search for Roscommon. Entries can be uploaded to the Ballaghaderreen area page for adjudication. The closing date is May 5th and the winning entry in each category will move forward to county adjudication.

Learn to drive with

Roscommon Driving School A walk-in Covid-19 test centre will be in operation in Castlerea until next Tuesday. The centre will run alongside the current test centre but requires no GP referral. Pic: Mick McCormack

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- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Advertorial - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Be part of Roscommon Town Darkness Into Light on May 8th! For many people the last year has been filled with darkness and isolation. And right now, so many of our neighbours, family and friends are struggling or feeling alone. This year, the Pieta House Darkness Into Light campaign needs your help more than ever. We may not be able to gather together in the way that we normally would but that’s not going to stop us. Instead, we are going to come together in even greater numbers, in more locations and in even more creative ways than ever before! Together our goal is simple. We want to spread light and hope into every town, every village, every home and every heart – not just in Ireland but all over the world. This year, more than ever, we want you to share the unique and powerful experience of Darkness Into Light with your loved ones, family and friends. Invite them all to take part in

Darkness Into Light on May 8th whereever they may be and together you will be part of this extraordinary global movement. You will be joining over 200,000 people from all over the world – all standing together in a celebration of hope. Remember every euro you help to contribute, through your registration fee or by fundraising, will help ensure that Pieta’s free, lifesaving services remain available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. And every friend you invite to join you will be helping to spread hope and vital awareness. We hope that you will sign up for this year’s walk, invite your friends, families and colleagues to take part and to complete the walk in a location of your choice while adhering to all Covid and public health guidelines. You could have a huge impact on the number of people that Pieta can help this year. Why not start a virtual team and

get some healthy competition going, or make it a family activity and encourage the rest of your household to get on board? Join Pieta and Electric Ireland for a special Darkness Into Light Sunrise, and give the gift of hope to those impacted by suicide and self-harm. Join in any way you can – walk, swim, bike or simply share your sunrise moment with us on the Pieta and Darkness into Light social media pages. You are about to be a part of something truly extraordinary. #DIL2021 #DarknessIntoLight2021 Talk to a Pieta House therapist any time, day or night. If you need someone to talk to, we listen: Freephone: 1800-247247 to speak to a therapist if you are in crisis. Text HELP to 51444 to text a therapist if you are in crisis or call 0818-111126 to make an appointment with a therapist.

Sunrise • 8 May 2021 Take part your way, and give hope to those impacted by suicide CHY16913

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Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Local students are Global Goal Getters! The work of pupils from three local national schools will feature in the latest edition of Global Goal Getters, an online magazine which showcases projects from schools taking part in this year’s Our World Irish Aid Awards. Students from Ballintleva National School, Curraghboy; Ballyfeeney National School, Scramogue; and St. Mary’s National School, Ballinagare, will see their work featured in the Department of Foreign Affairs’ flagship global citizenship award scheme. Ballintleva and Ballyfeeney National Schools were also featured in the first edition of the magazine.

Since January, primary school pupils across Ireland have been learning in the classroom and at home about the importance of working with others to address global challenges and build a more equal, peaceful, and sustainable world. Congratulating the pupils on their work, Minister of State for Overseas Development and Diaspora Colm Brophy TD said: “I am extremely encouraged by the strong response to this year’s Our World Irish Aid Award. To date we have received 330 entries from schools across the country, including many entries from pupils learning at home”. The inaugural edition of Global Goal Get-

ters was published online in early March and has already attracted the attention of people as far away as Finland, the United States of America, South Korea, India, Haiti and Brazil. Registered primary schools nationwide receive curriculum-linked teaching and learning materials to help teachers and pupils discover more about each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the work of Irish Aid. Materials are available in Irish. The Global Goal Getters magazine as well as a suite of home learning materials for pupils can be found at www.ourworldirishaidawards.ie.

Free haircuts for centenarians at Barber Bobs! < DAN DOONER

Robbie Connaughton of Barber Bobs, Monksland, is offering free haircuts to gentlemen aged 100 years and over when the business reopens next month.

Barber Bobs in Monksland is offering free haircuts for life for gentlemen aged 100 years and over as soon as the business is allowed to reopen in the coming weeks. Speaking to the Roscom-

mon People this week, proprietor Robbie Connaughton said: “I have decided to offer every man aged 100 years of age and over free haircuts for the rest of their days at Barber Bobs. They will also get first priority for haircuts on our first day

John raises €1,100 for Hospice Pictured is Kathy Grogan, area shop manager, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, and John O’Donnell, Carramore, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. John raised a total of €1,100 from the sale of some puppies from his dog ‘Puppy’, and donations from family and neighbours, which he donated to Mayo Roscommon Hospice. The Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation would like to thank John most sincerely.

back in business, which is now looking like the middle of May. “To book yourself, a relative, neighbour or friend aged 100 years or more in for a haircut ahead of our first day back, please contact me on 086-2502500”.

Help wanted for Hedgehog Survey! Launched in the summer of 2020, the Irish Hedgehog Survey asked members of the public to submit records of hedgehog sightings online. The response was fantastic with over 2,000 sightings reported all over Ireland. This year, project partner, Roscommon County Council, is supporting the survey with volunteers invited to take part in their local area between the months of May and September. The council’s Heritage Officer, Nollaig

Ballagh’ ready for Darkness Into Light Sunrise! Members of the Ballaghaderreen Darkness Into Light committee pictured at Duffy’s SuperValu recently. The Pieta House Darkness into Light Sunrise event takes place on Saturday, May 8th. All support greatly appreciated.

Feeney, said: “Roscommon County Council is proud to support this survey as a part of our ongoing ‘Nature is Good for You’ initiative as an action of the County Roscommon Heritage Plan 2017-2021”. The methodology follows that developed by the Mammal Society of the UK which uses footprint tunnels to determine if hedgehogs are present in various habitats. Volunteers place ten footprint tunnels within a 1km2 area for five nights and check them each morning for signs of hedgehogs.

This survey would be suitable for interested individuals, local wildlife or conservation groups and community and youth groups. Workshops will be offered in early summer for those interested. Full details of dates and locations will be available on the project website https://www. irishhedgehogsurvey.com/. Please contact the survey organiser irishhedgehogsurvey@ gmail.com if you would like more information or wish to be informed of training and survey news.

Celebrating Earth Day! Gaelscoil de hÍde students, Lewis Mac Gabhann and Laurence O’Connor celebrated Earth Day on Thursday last by doing their bit in the school garden. An-mhaith!

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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

READERS’ LETTERS…

and other visitors to our town. It would also have left us with a nice clean Square.

Further thoughts on present-day Main Street

Yours sincerely, John Kerrigan

Dear Sir,

In praise of Suck Valley Way project

Circular Road Roscommon Town

Many thanks to Roscommon People journalist, Dan Dooner, for his accurate reporting regarding my views on the recently rediscovered toll gate which was once situated where the current Main Street meets Church Street. Also, for his inclusion of my theory regarding the tunnel under The Square, which at one time linked the old courthouse to the old jail. It is my latter comments I would like to return to, and in particular the siting of the old jail circa 1750. There must have been a compelling reason as to why the Crown built (the old jail) on that particular site. Unfortunately, it destroyed the Elizabethan vision for Roscommon town, with its broad avenue linking Roscommon Castle to The Square. This influence is still evident in the present day with our wide Main Street. There it ends by linking the old Monastic town with the present Church Street. The Crown’s unfortunate decision (regarding the construction of the old jail) was compounded by the erection of the building - home to our present post office - which protrudes onto The Square. It would have been far better if the post office was built in line with the other buildings on that side of the street (present-day Regan’s and Gleeson’s). It would have left space for an ideal drop-off point for coaches and tourists

For enquiries call or email

Dear Editor, I would like to congratulate those people in County Roscommon, especially Councillor Anthony Waldron and those who are developing the Suck Valley Way project, on their efforts in creating a greater awareness of the opportunities of interest to the wider public in terms of what Roscommon has to offer. I was particularly impressed with the talk given on the web recently by Éamon Ó Cuív about Fr. Michael O’Flanagan from Castlerea. It was Fr. O’Flanagan who played the vital role in creating, in 1917-18, the political phoenix which rose from the ashes of the defeat of the 1916 Easter Rising. Sadly, his efforts have been overlooked by modern historians in the recent centenary celebrations. When asked to say the opening prayers of the first Dáil, Cathal Brugha introduced him as, “the staunchest priest who ever lived in Ireland”, and Éamon de Valera later said, “Ireland owed more to Fr. O’Flanagan than to any other living man”. So well done to those who are trying to revive an awareness of the greatest ever man from Roscommon. Yours sincerely, Aidan Cooke

Kilteevan opens ‘Gairdín Grace’ as part of Decade of Centenaries Programme The people of Kilteevan recently opened a memorial garden in memory of Grace Gifford Plunkett as part of the Decade of Centenaries Programme which has been running across the country since 2012 and is due to end in 2023. On Thursday, April 15th, the committee along with five special guests held an event in the grounds of the centre to commemorate Irish Independence. Kilteevan Tidy Towns planted seven white roses in memory of the seven signatories of the Irish Proclamation: Thomas J Clarke, Seán Mac Diarmada, Thomas MacDonagh, P. H. Pearse, Éamonn Ceannt, James Connolly and Joseph Plunkett. The flowers were planted around the rose trees to represent all who participated in the struggle for independence. The colour white was chosen to represent peace, harmony and admiration. The roses were also planted beneath a pink cherry blossom tree, according to Eileen Fahey, “to represent what were once, the forgotten women of Ireland’s struggle for independence”. Eileen added that “thanks to historians and researchers we now know the vital role women played in the struggle for Irish freedom and we want this tree to represent those women”. Ray Clabby, Kilteevan Tidy Towns, was thanked for his expertise in designing the garden. The group hopes to place a replica of the Irish Proclamation engraved on granite in the garden in the near future. In order to leave a more lasting legacy, local stonemason Mark Feely was commissioned to craft a commemorative plaque. Mark set the plaque in place after sunset on Easter Saturday so that the sun would rise on it on Easter Sunday. At the official unveiling of the plaque, Pat Devaney sang ‘Grace’, the song which tells the story of Grace Gifford who married Joseph Plunkett on May 3rd 1916 in Kilmainham Gaol, hours before he was executed by firing squad for his role in the Easter Rising of 1916. Noel Maguire, who served for 43 years in the Irish Defence Forces, officially unveiled the plaque. Tom Brady danced to mark the celebration of Ireland’s Independence while Tommy Murray read the Proclamation. Tommy’s father Jim Murray and his uncle Tom Murray were members of The Kilteevan Company; 3rd Battalion of Volunteers.

Noel Maguire Kilteevan who officially unveiled Kilteevan’s memorial plaque at the newly opened Gairdín Grace.

Laura Croghan, a former recipient of the Dermot Early Youth Initiative, now pursuing further education, sang Amhrán Na bhFiann. Closing the ceremony, Eileen Fahey explained that the Kilteevan committee have decided to call their garden ‘Gairdín Grace’ in memory of Grace Gifford Plunkett.

Pupils from Kilteevan National School participate in a recent event to commemorate a ‘Decade of Centenaries’ from behind the school wall.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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FRANK BRANDON It’s a cruel world so keep your ‘best friends’ close! FRANK BRANDON’S

unique take on life ...

Our man Frank on taking care of our beloved pets, an increase in rural crime and a badly-needed shot in the arm… Last week, it seemed as though all the news outlets were carrying stories of horrific abuse of different kinds of animals, and it never ceases to amaze me how human beings can inflict such suffering and cruelty on innocent, defenceless creatures. Thankfully, for all of those who show no empathy whatsoever to our animal friends, there are many more who love their animals, and treat them with the love and respect they deserve. At the weekend, a very good friend of mine sadly lost her pet dog in an accident.

I can only say that she was totally and utterly devastated by the event, and it will take her a long time to come to terms with the loss of her very best friend. Sometimes it is easy to be cynical about our affection for our pets but oftentimes the love of a pet can be more real and complete than that of humans. Even though my friend is so upset right now, she has the consolation of knowing that the love she had for her beloved pet was returned a thousand times over. Sadly, dogs are still being stolen, and in some cases mistreated, by unscrupulous thieves who sell them on the black market. So as my friend struggles to come to terms with her loss, keep an eye on your pets, and don’t let them be easy targets for such thefts. As bad as losing your pet in an accident is, it must be much worse to have them stolen, and not knowing whether they are alive, dead, or even worse, being badly mistreated.

Be on alert for thieves and scam artists! A few years ago, it seemed that rural crime went through the roof all over Ireland. We were all aware of organised crime gangs using the motorway network to avoid detection by the Gardaí, while everything and anything was being stolen from farmers’ yards, building sites, and rural homes. Very many people were left devastated at the loss of so much valuable property. Then, one of those famous Garda Operations targeting the major crime gangs seemed to put an end to the decimation of rural communities, and for a time, there were very few reports of major thefts in country areas. However, the bad news is that all that seems to have changed in recent months. Lately, rural crime has once again shown a marked increase, and in our own local area there have been several break-ins, thefts, and attempted robberies reported over the last few weeks. According to official figures, there are more than 2,000 farmyard thefts each year, but that is apparently nowhere near the real figure, as many crimes go unreported. It seems farmers are prepared to take the hit rather than going through the hassle of reporting incidents to the Gardaí, and maybe facing increased insurance premiums as a result. Medium and small sized tools are the main targets for criminals, with items such as quads, trailers, cement mixers, power tools, tractors, and other machinery particularly popular. Additionally, it now seems that there is an international aspect to the modern crime gangs. It would appear that criminals are arriving into Ireland early in the week, carrying out crime sprees, and shipping

their ill-gotten goods as far away as Eastern Europe. At one stage, the Irish Farmers’ Association advised their members to stamp all their equipment so they could identify anything that might be recovered by the Gardaí, stating: “If you take one chainsaw and it’s not marked, it’s identical to every other chainsaw”. At one ‘Property Recovery Day’ in Tipperary some years ago, 90% of more than 500 stolen items were not marked at all. Anyway, there is a new wave of thefts and break-ins sweeping the country, so be more vigilant than ever, keep your eyes open for any unusual or suspicious activity, and if in doubt, report any such activity to the Gardaí. Also, throw an eye on your neighbour’s place as well, particularly if you know their house might be unoccupied. By looking out for each other we might just save someone else from losing their valuable possessions. A week or two ago, a friend of mine told

me that the theft of catalytic convertors is also rife around our area (thankfully my car is old enough not to need one), and that they are a very valuable commodity. This week on Crimecall, he was proved right – two separate incidents of such theft were captured on CCTV. The disturbing thing is that it only took a matter of minutes for two men to jack up the cars and make off with the convertors. It seems they contain precious metals like platinum, palladium or rhodium, which are very valuable Only a few days ago, gardai seized over 2,000 stolen catalytic convertors in Finglas, Dublin with an estimated black market value of €2.2million. It is the fourth such seizure in a couple of months, so that type of theft is big business as well. I don’t know how to protect your car from being successfully targeted, but one thing that is suggested is to fit an alarm that will go off when it detects any vibration, as well as parking in busy, well-lit areas. The other interesting crime that featured (for the umpteenth time) on Crimecall was a scam involving changing €20 notes into €50s, and then asking for the original notes back again. By fiddling about with €50 notes, the scammers can dupe the shop assistant, and in the scam featured on Crimecall, they got away with €150. Now I have seen this type of crime featured many times on this programme over the last year, so it amazes me that retail staff, when asked to change four or five hundred euros from €20s into €50s, don’t simply say they haven’t that much money in the till. It’s not as if the public haven’t been warned often enough, so surely retailers should instruct their staff to refuse to change money, no matter what amount, and

that would put an end to what is a despicable scam.

And finally…

On Saturday morning last, as the sun split the stones, I took my first major step towards emerging safely from this awful, year-and-abit long pandemic, when I received my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. The good news is that I am back for jab number two in four weeks’ time, and seven days later I should be good to go. I don’t know where I will go - or if I can even go anywhere at all - but I have to admit that it’s a good feeling to even think about the possibilities; there is no doubt getting the vaccine is good for my mental wellbeing! The pandemic has seen many events take place in our lives (mine and my wife Carol’s), including two immediate family weddings, becoming grandparents for the first time, and, in my case, reaching the grand old age of 70 (Ed – We don’t believe you!), which explains why I was eligible to get the Pfizer vaccine. Considering I did everything I could to make sure I didn’t make it, I want to congratulate myself for making the three score and ten, and wish myself a happy birthday – which, as it took place a couple of weeks ago, is a little bit late. While I’m at it, my good pal Adrian Leddy, who also did his best not to make it, got there on April 1st, so congratulations Adrian and well done! Thirty years ago we had a joint party for our 40th…I wonder what are the chances of repeating it for 80, but I wouldn’t be rushing to Paddy Power to check out the odds!

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople

Marian Hall, Gortaganny.

OUR RURAL FUTURE Eight Connected Communities Now Live in County Roscommon following virtual launch

Tawnytaskin

Kiltoom Parish Hall GRoup.

Tulsk DigiHub.

Cam Community and Sports Centre

Dangan Community Centre

Creeve Community Centre

St Patrick’s hall, Drumboylan

Government’s ambitious new plan for rural Ireland, Our Rural Future, places a huge emphasis on remote working and improving digital connectivity in our rural communities. As Minister, I am delighted to provide funding for a dedicated Broadband Officer in Roscommon Local Authority. Not alone is my Department supporting the delivery of BCPs in terms of connections, we are also providing funding to support the fit out of many of these locations under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme as part of a new initiative that I introduced upon my appointment as Minister. I am particularly delighted today to announce the official opening of Tulsk DigiHub, a fantastic project which has been funded under my Department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. It is great to see Our Rural Future in action and delivering on the ground in Roscommon and I hope to able to continue to support the Local Authority in the great work they are doing. During the launch, Cathaoirleach Councillor Laurence Fallon stated “The availability of high speed broadband in County Roscommon will change the way we do work, business and leisure. High speed broadband is important for the business people of this county, the students of this county and it is important for anybody who wants to work remotely so I’m delighted today to be here to launch the Broadband connection points in 8 community centres spread across the entire County Roscommon which is bringing high speed broadband, available free of charge to people who want to access it either in the community centre or in their cars outside. Mr. Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, stated “The government’s national broadband plan is perhaps the most important strategic investment and development in the state in recent times. It will be an investment of €76 M in high speed broadband in our County. Connected Communities initiative is creating 8 Broadband Connection Points in public buildings in Co. Mr. Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Annemarie Johnston, Roscommon. Tulsk Roscommon County Council, Seamus Conway, Chairman of Tulsk Parish Services at Tulsk DigiHub received Rural oscommon County Council wishes to announce the arrival of 8 Connected Communities or Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) in County Roscommon. A first step in rolling out the National Broadband Plan (NBP). The BCPs were officially launched via a Virtual Launch at 5pm Monday, 26th April, 2021 To view the launch, visit facebook @RoscommonCountyCouncil and you will see short clips from each location, speakers include Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, Cllr Laurence Fallon, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council, Mr. Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, the Community Representatives, Peter Hendrick, CEO, National Broadband Ireland, NBI, Sinéad Bryan, Director of Vodafone Business, Vodafone Ireland and Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO, Western Development Commission, WDC. Connected Communities is an initiative of the Government of Ireland, in partnership with Vodafone to provide free high-speed internet access at publicly accessible sites for remote work, study, community/digital skills training and a host of other digitally enabled services and amenities. The BCP will provide high speed broadband access to communities (within amber area of the NBP), in advance of homes and businesses receiving future-proofed broadband directly to their door under the NBP. Launching the Roscommon BCP network, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys said: “I am delighted to officially launch the Roscommon BCP network today. The

DigiHub.

Regeneration and Development Funding and it has a capacity of 20 desks over 3 rooms, suitable for remote working, small start-ups, community use, or training, plus free external wifi. High Speed Broadband is also being delivered to 32 schools in the County, this will enable students to fully participate in the digital revolution and will under pin the Department of education’s digital learning framework. I would like to commend the Government for making this investment and especially I would like to thank the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Department of the Environment, Climate And Communications, NBI, Vodafone for connecting the BCPs and I’d also like to thank the WDC for assisting us in developing the Tulsk Digihub and our Broadband Officer. Tomás Ó Síocháin stated “Western Development Commission, WDC is delighted to welcome the opening of Tulsk Digihub as part of the Digiwest project, this is one of 4 hubs, within that project with the support of the local authorities, and the Department of Community and Rural Development. This hub is one of a national network of hubs and is aimed at 3 audiences, those that wish to work remotely, those that are establishing or developing an early stage business or enterprise, and also particularly those who may be interested in taking up education through that outreach programme. We’re delighted to say that Tulsk Hub will be one of the first 10 on-board on that new system which will allow people to book a space within the hub in real time. We see these hubs as a key part of rural and regional development and we are delighted to welcome Tulsk hub as one of the first onboard. Anne O’Leary, CEO Vodafone Ireland said: “Vodafone is proud to partner with Government on Connected Communities, providing best in class WiFi to rural communities across Ireland. Today, we are delighted to see the launch of Roscommon Connected Communities, bringing highspeed connectivity across the county. As they evolve and grow, Connected Communities will provide an opportunity to transform the economic and social fabric of rural towns and communities by addressing the digital divide, improving lives, creating jobs and stimulating rural economic growth”.

Welcoming the launch of the initiative, Peter Hendrick, Chief Executive Officer at National Broadband Ireland, said: “Broadband Connection Points offer rural communities essential access to free high-speed internet access and they pave the way for the wider rollout of the National Broadband Plan, which as a project of tremendous size and scale will deliver world-leading Fibre-to-the-Home broadband directly to 544,000 homes, farms and businesses. With today’s launch, we’re excited for communities to start realising the transformational benefits that high-speed connectivity can bring to so many aspects of people’s lives.” Roscommon County Council’s Broadband Office wishes to thank all the local community groups for providing their sites as BCPs, and Mimar Media for producing the online launch. Funding was provided by Government of Ireland under the Department of Rural and Community Development, Vodafone, NBI and Roscommon County Council. Tulsk DigiHub received Rural Regeneration and Development funding under Project Ireland 2040 managed by WDC and Roscommon County Council, as part of the Digiwest Project. The BCPs obtained accelerated town and village funding for furniture and equipment. The community groups also contributed.

For further information on this initiative please email broadband@roscommoncoco.ie or visit website www.roscommoncoco.ie or www.myconnectedcommunity.ie

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s MUSINGS Gender neutral loos…are we a nation split again? Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

The debate regarding the installation of unisex/gender neutral loos in our schools continues to not so much rattle on, but in much the same way as the infamous Saipan incident back in 2002, this highly emotive issue appears to be dividing our entire nation! Yep, you get it readers, it’s a bit of a triggering topic, but it’s also a clear indication of how we, as a country, have become more accepting, more humane and more inclusive; and that’s got to be a good thing. As someone who advocates for equality, I stand fully behind this progressive move for the simple reason I believe we must embrace everyone equally. To that end, in order to make all students feel comfortable, it’s my opinion that our schools should not just install gender-neutral loos, but they should also provide students with a choice of both male specific and female specific ones too! I don’t have school-going children (I do have a secondary school-going grandchild), but I’d be happier if schools that are planning to refurbish

Article 41.2: AKA the ‘love, hoover and obey clause’! I don’t know about you ladies, but I’m delighted to hear that the deletion and replacement of a clause in Article 41.2 in our Constitution, which refers to ‘women’s place in the home’ has at last been recommended for removal by the Citizen’s Assembly! Why? Because in my humble opinion, it’s not only insulting and backward, it’s reductive in so much as it strips us of our rights! How dare anyone – be it the State or any group or individual – define where we, as women ‘belong’. For too long now our voices have been drowned out and our rights have been diminished by a single clause, to an extent that women “shall not be obliged by economic necessity to engage in labour to the neglect of their duties in their home”. Or as I call it, the love-hoover-and-obey clause! However, that being said, as someone who strives to promote fairness, I believe that Article 41.2 is also sexist not just towards women and mothers but also towards men and fathers. You see, if in the event this Article 41.2

(in its present form) were to be cited in, for example, a family law capacity concerning a deserted dad, it could be suggested that it provides grounds to justify discrimination in favour of the woman/mother over the rights of the man/dad. But obviously I’m no family law expert; this is just my ‘what if’ scenario, and of course I could be wrong, so please don’t feel obliged to write a letter to our editor. For the record, as a proud Irish woman I fully respect Bunreacht na hÉireann for the simple reason that it was ratified by the Irish people on July 1st 1937, and not because it’s largely known as De Valera’s constitution. I mean Dev only supervised it, he didn’t actually write it, but it clearly shows us that when it comes to women, he wasn’t exactly forward thinking. As a fan of Michael Collins, I’ve no doubt that if the humane and compassionate Big Fella had still been with us in 1937, and if he’d been the one supervising our Constitution, he’d never have agreed to women being defined under such repressive and discriminatory conditions.

their toilet facilities under the ‘new construction and refurbishment guidelines from the Department of Education’, would consult with students and parents/guardians prior to making such radical changes. My reason for this is based on my belief that, if this initiative (which again I personally embrace) goes ahead, I wouldn’t wish for any of our nation’s students to feel obliged to be party to what may possibly become a social experiment. You see, it’s important we don’t lose sight of the fact that, in some instances, a school’s participation in what is essentially an innovative step, may serve to disrupt some children’s privacy and overall sense of security and wellbeing; and nobody wants that! Everyone should be able to use a toilet facility, whether a single sex one or a unisex/gender-neutral one, in peace and in safety. Oh and on a personal level, and lighter note, being a germaphobe, or as my girls call me, ‘a massive Monica’ (a character from the TV show

‘Friends’), the whole issue of hygiene regarding the unisex loo would prove to be a crucial bone of contention for me. Perhaps you haven’t realised it lads, but to put it delicately, there’s a lot more to going to the loo than unzipping, doing your business, zipping up, leaving and ahem, never looking back! You see, since time immemorial, the loo has been perfectly designed and shaped to cater for everyone, yet (and I’m sorry to bring this up boys) despite this, some of you (not all, I’m not generalising) actually manage to spray every single surface of the bathroom, leaving your scent. Oops! Still on that lighter note – it’s kind of like what my male fur-baby does when he wants to mark his territory! Yes girls, you know what I mean. Here’s a thought: perhaps when our schools are inserting these fabulous new toilet facilities, they’d add a little wipe-the-seat-leave-no-trace-andwash-your-hands module to their curriculum?

Thank you: you’re a remarkable bunch of Rossies! I’d like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all those who messaged me and stopped me (at a social distance), and those who found me on WhatsApp to ask how I was doing and if my back was Ok following my lumber spine x-ray at Roscommon University Hospital earlier this month. If anyone needed proof that the readers of this family-focused newspaper were a truly remarkable and thoughtful bunch of Rossies, this is it! I’m overwhelmed that so many of you care so much. I’m doing great folks. My results came back and I’m absolutely delighted to report that my little fall didn’t do any damage whatsoever to my spine. I did manage to badly bruise my coccyx (tailbone) when I landed smack on it, and it’ll take a little while for the bruising and pain to ease, but it’s all good. He-who-must-be-obeyed is clearly a graduate of the how-to-be-a-good-husbandcollege, because he ordered a special orthopaedic memory cushion for me to use when I’m working from home. It’s so comfy readers, I can tell you that my rear end feels positively upholstered!

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Claire Kerrane TD @ClaireKerrane

Paul O’Kane @pmokane Am I the only person in Ireland and Britain not watching #LineofDuty? – No (but it’s a reasonable question) Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan In the garden with the wireless and papers. Heavenly day! Public mood has lifted! – Michael was a happy man on Sunday…but ‘wireless’? Jennifer @SgtJJSharps I’m a 37 year old, married mother of 3 who is a sergeant in the Metropolitan Police Service. But today I got told off by my Mum for getting sun burnt, again. – Many people will identify with this tweet!

anyone can remember that...

I am now into the last year of my twenties which is somewhat depressing #29

thought I would miss anything on television ever, but tonight is just not the same. In fact, it’s just like no one understands. Please come back and make everything alright again

– Ah Claire, imagine how some of us feel!

– He’s only gone a week…and he’ll be back!

Ernestine Healy @Ernestine_Healy

Philip Nolan @philipnolan1

Portobello last night. We have to do a whole lot better. This can’t continue, even in the short term.

What a beautiful programme on #keystomylife this evening with @brendancourtney & @ SharonShannon99 An idol of mine since I was young, still in awe of your music and the warm beautiful person you are @ SharonShannon99!

I’m so jealous of Tom Jones. Not because he’s 80 and looks and sings that well. Just because I’m fairly sure he got the Pfizer vaccine...

– Tweeters were raving about RTE’s Keys To My Life focus on Sharon Shannon, broadcast on Sunday evening Gareth O’Callaghan @GarethOCal I miss you Tommy Tiernan. I never

– The well-known Irish Daily Mail columnist didn’t see a superstar on the Late Late…he saw a vaccine recipient! Shane Beatty @ShaneBeattyNews Going outside this morning is like stepping out onto your balcony first thing in your onebed apartment in the Canaries. If

– Thanks Shane, thanks a lot! Cllr James Geoghegan @GeogheganCllr

– A county councillor comments on the morning after the night before, after crowds of revellers gathered in Portobello (the tweet was accompanied by photos of littering, including empty beer cans, etc.)

Sharon Shannon

Paul Anthony Ward @PaulAnthonyWard Dafuq does “We have to do better” mean? Insipid, platitudinal crap. You’re a councillor. Put out more bins. And build some public toilets while you’re at it. – A blunt response to Cllr. Geoghegan (and I discover a new word(s)…Dafuq) Line of Duty

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Moate Business College – Celebrating 30 years of Success in Further Education and Training Moate Business College (MBC) is one of the largest colleges of Further Education in the Midlands region, catering for over 400 fulltime students. With thirty years of experience, the college has an excellent reputation for providing learning opportunities that support students to develop their skills and talents, enabling progression to higher education or employment. MBC provides seventeen full-time courses divided into three departments of study – Business and IT, Art and Sport, in addition to Healthcare and Social Studies and works tirelessly for the benefit of its students to provide the best further education possible. Learners with a wide variety of needs are catered for – from those leaving secondary school who wish to prepare for third level, to those training or upskilling for employment and for those who are returning to education after a break. MBC supports students in bridging the gap between their Leaving Certificate and third level. Further education should be seen as a place of transition, where students can take time and have the opportunity to mature both academically and personally, allowing them to make better future decisions and preparing them for the world of third level or employment. Students wishing to upskill or who wish to return to education as a ma-

ture student will also benefit greatly by the qualifications and experience offered to them through further education. MBC has developed longstanding educational links with third level colleges in Ireland and the UK, with a number of excellent bilateral arrangements with colleges and has also established excellent relationships with employers through work placement programmes and with respect to employment opportunities for students. Students may apply for a Susi grant while studying in further education and learning support is available for those who require it, enabling all to achieve to their highest potential. The opportunity to repeat Leaving Certificate maths is also possible should students need to do so. Costs are low and affordable, allowing students the opportunity to assess their area of interest before progressing to third level, without investing heavily from a financial perspective. Work placements and field trips are an integral part of our programmes, providing students with an invaluable chance to gain practical experience. Moate Business College is also involved in the EU Erasmus + programme which enables students to carry out their work placement in other European countries. The college provides a student-focused career advice

service, supporting students in their career planning for the future, and provides workshops, career talks and guest speakers from industry and third level institutions. We welcome students of all ages, nationalities and abilities, our courses are delivered by an enthusiastic team dedicated to the highest standards of teaching and learning. The friendly,

innovative, supportive and welcoming atmosphere in Moate Business College will ensure that your time with us will be both enjoyable and fulfilling. See our Information video and apply now at www. moatebusinesscollege.com. Contact us for more information or to book a live presentation email: info@moatebc.com Tel: 090-6481178

QQI Level 5 & 6 Courses on offer in Moate Business College commencing in September 2021:

BUSINESS & IT • Software Development • Business & Office Administration • Tourism with Business • Digital Marketing & Business • Creative Media • Advanced Business with IT • Advanced Software Development • Advanced Tourism with Business ART & SPORT • Art & Design • Sport, Anatomy & Nutrition

• Advanced Art & Design

HEALTHCARE & SOCIAL STUDIES • Applied Social Studies • Community Healthcare Services • Nursing Studies • Early Childhood Care & Education (with Special Needs) • Advanced Community Development with Psychology • Advanced Early Childhood Care & Education (with Special Needs)

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople How will patients get to new trauma centres? While the decision to streamline and properly resource two major trauma centres for the critically ill is the correct one, it is of little use unless patients can access the facilities, claims Independent TD Denis Naughten. “It was accepted by Cabinet in 2018 that the reconfiguration of trauma services should not go ahead until proposed improvements in existing air ambulance services are introduced and additional ground ambulance resources provided,” stated Denis Naughten. “However, the recent announcement makes no reference to either form of emergency transport service and has been made in a week that 20 ambulances and staff have been redeployed to roll out the Covid vaccinations to the housebound. “We have yet to see an air ambulance service covering the whole country, and the present service is, in part, supported by a charity funded service and we still have no night time service. During the winter, we can have as little as six hours flying time during daylight, and the darker months are the months when we are more likely to have road traffic accidents, which, in many instances, require major trauma care. “Sadly, in Ireland we have seen an approach to health reconfiguration that ignores the patient. Does anybody ever consider how the seriously ill patient can access these state-of-the-art services if they are hundreds of miles away, waiting on an ambulance to come?”

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

newsbriefs €600,000 for Local Sports Partnerships

Dáithí Ó Sé (Alzheimer Society of Ireland Ambassador) is appealing to the public to support Alzheimer Tea Day. Picture: Provision Photography

Dáithí Ó Sé invites Roscommon support for Alzheimer’s Tea Day RTÉ star Dáithí Ó Sé is calling on Roscommon to show solidarity with people with dementia and their family carers and, virtually, have ‘Tea in Every Town’ with their friends and loved ones to mark Alzheimer’s Tea Day, which takes place across Ireland on Thursday, May 6th, and is proudly sponsored by Fujitsu Ireland. It is estimated that there are 1,108 people living with dementia in Roscommon, and for every one person with dementia, three others are directly affected. The number of people with the condition will more than double in the next 25 years, reaching over 150,000 by 2045. The ASI needs to raise €3.5 million every year just to keep services running in order to support the 64,000 living with

dementia in Ireland. You can post your Tea Day photos, videos, messages and don’t forget to use our hashtags, #TeaInEveryTown and #TeaDay2021. Send us back your special Tea Day donation on teaday.ie. Every extra euro you raise funds vital services for people living with dementia and their families. Dáithí Ó Sé, Alzheimer Society of Ireland Ambassador, said: “On Thursday, May 6th, join your online gathering to thousands of others all over the country as we share a cuppa with our friends, family and colleagues to chat and celebrate those we love. You’ll also be raising muchneeded funds to help families living with dementia”.

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy recently welcomed the announcement of over €600,000 in funding for Sports Partnerships in Roscommon and Galway. “A breakdown of the figures show that County Roscommon will receive Local Sports Partnership funding of €234,635, while County Galway will benefit to the sum of €369,891. Today’s announcement follows a year in which the sector has been significantly impacted by Covid-19 restrictions since March 2020, so it is most welcome,” said Senator Murphy. “The past year has been extremely difficult for everyone, and we have all seen the benefit that sports can have to mental health and overall well-being, so it is terrific to see such a significant level of funding towards the National Governing Bodies and Local Sports Partnerships, as it will help encourage people to get and stay active,” he added.

Environmental Pilot Scheme ‘unacceptable’ Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said that the proposals put forward by the Minister for Agriculture for the new Environmental Scheme are “entirely unacceptable” and that the scheme must be overhauled. Deputy Kerrane said: “This scheme is exactly what happens when consultation consists of an online survey. The scheme is based on a payment by results model, which means that farmers will only be paid on results. This ignores many factors outside of a farmer’s control that can impact on results, especially the weather. “The big question here however, is where is the €1.5 billion for a new environmental scheme that was promised in the Programme for Government? This would have meant €150 million per year on a new scheme. Then followed an allocation in Budget 2021 of €79 million, yet only €10 million is being allocated to this new pilot scheme. So, where did the rest of the €79 million or the €150 million actually go?”.

Roscommon photographer advances to next stage of DIAS astrophotography competition A Roscommon photographer has advanced to the next stage of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) ‘Reach for the Stars’ astrophotography competition and features in the online public vote launched this week by Tánaiste Leo Varadkar during a private visit to DIAS’s Dunsink Observatory. Éanna Donohue from Ballyleague was included in the online public vote and members of the public can now view all images shortlisted for the competition and cast their vote for their favourite via an online gallery on the DIAS website. Over 170 images have been shortlisted this year – the inaugural year of the competition. The winning images selected by the judging panel and the public vote will be announced towards the end of May, and an outdoor exhibition will be staged by DIAS to showcase the best images ‘Reach for the Stars’ aims to find the best astro-photographs taken in Ireland

over the past year. While a high-profile judging panel will select the overall winning entries, an online vote is running over the coming weeks. Commenting recently, Professor Peter Gallagher (Head of Astrophysics at DIAS and member of the judging panel for ‘Reach for the Stars’) said: “We are blown away by the images submitted to the competition. From stars and galaxies to meteor showers and the moon – there are dozens of fantastic entries. We are delighted to be able to showcase all the eligible submissions online, so that the public can enjoy them too. “The enthusiasm for the competition has really proven to us the interest there is in astronomy amongst the public, and the many talented photographers that are out there. We encourage people to take a look online and cast their vote for their favourite”. Alongside the Public Choice Award, an overall

Pictured at DIAS Dunsink Observatory marking the launch of the online public vote to choose Ireland’s best astrophotography images are Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, Dr. Eucharia Meehan (CEO and Registrar of DIAS), and Professor Peter Gallagher (Head of Astrophysics at DIAS).

winner and runners-up will be chosen by the judging panel, which includes Professor Gallagher, Brenda Fitzsimons (Picture Editor of The Irish Times), John Flannery (Vice-President of the Irish Astronomical Society), and Martina Quinn (Managing Director

of Alice PR and Events). Votes for the Public Choice Award are restricted to one vote per person, and voting will close at midnight on Sunday, May 9th. DIAS’s ‘Reach for the Stars’ competition is being run in partnership with

The Irish Times and is sponsored by Alice PR and Events. The Irish Astronomical Society are initiative supporters. Further information, including the online gallery and background information on the competition, is available at dias.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople

New service station boost for Knockcroghery < DAN DOONER

A new service station is set to provide a much needed boost to the village of Knockcroghery when it opens for business at the end of next month, creating up to 12 new full and part-time jobs. Mee’s Daybreak, which is part of the Musgrave Group, will provide a modern shopping experience, complete with full coffee dock, a ‘Munch and Go’ Deli, an ice-cream bar and fresh, locally-sourced groceries and other essentials. One of Ireland’s largest fuel suppliers, Inver, will operate the adjoining filling station. Proprietor Luke Mee, who has similar shops in his native Kilkerrin as well as Ballymoe, says he and his business partner and brother-in-law, Pat Igoe, are looking forward to opening at the end of May. “It’s an honour to be offering this service in Knockcroghery and serving the local community and passing traffic on this busy route. It really is a beautiful area and there are plenty of tourist attractions nearby too, which haven’t really been tapped into.

“We carried out traffic counts with two different companies, which showed that around 7,500 vehicles come through the village every day, around 6,800 of which are cars,” he said. Luke has strong connections to County Roscommon through his wife Carmel, an Achill native whose mother hailed from Hillstreet in the north of the county. He says he is delighted with the local response to the news so far. “There has been a great reaction so far which is great to see. We would be good friends with Anouska (O’Grady Lohan), who runs Ned’s Bar and she has been giving us a heads up about the local area. “Everything will be brand new, including the pumps and forecourts outside and the counters, shelves and shop fittings inside. “We will also be sourcing local produce wherever possible and our priority will be to support local businesses,” he said. Luke added that all going to plan, Mee’s Daybreak and Inver filling station is expected to open prior to the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Public Consultation Public Consultation Public Consultation Irish Rural Link are hosting aare series of online consultation on EirGrid’s Shaping Our Irish Rural Link hosting aaseries of consultation workshops EirGrid’s Irish Rural Linkare hosting series of online onlineworkshops consultation workshops on on EirGrid’s Shaping Our ElectricityShaping Future Strategy. A new report that details innovative approaches to developing the grid Our Electricity Future Strategy. A new report that details innovative Electricity Future Strategy. A new report that details innovative approaches to developing the grid to meet ambitious 2030to renewable energy must redevelop the grid to manage 70% of approaches developing thetargets. gridenergy toIt meet ambitious renewable energy to meet ambitious 2030 renewable targets. It must2030 redevelop the grid to manage 70% of Ireland’s targets. electricityItcoming from renewable sources by 2030. must redevelop the grid to manage 70% of Ireland’s electricity coming

Ireland’s electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030.

from renewable sources by 2030.

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The Midlands Regional Consultation takes place on The th Midlands Regional Consultation takes place on Wednesday 5Midlands May 7pm-9pm via Zoom The Consultation takes place on th Wednesday 5Regional May 7pm-9pm via Zoom To register please go to www.irishrurallink.ie/ Haveyoursay

Wednesday Maygo7pm-9pm via Zoom To register5th please to www.irishrurallink.ie/ Haveyoursay To register please go to www.irishrurallink.ie/Haveyoursay/

Shaping Our Electricity Future comprises four approaches to achieving this, as well as meeting Shaping Our Electricity Future comprises four approaches to achieving this, as well as meeting the projected increase demand for electricity over the coming years.

Shaping Our Electricity Future comprises four approaches to achieving this, as well the projected increase demand for electricity over the coming years. as meeting the projected increased demand for electricity over the coming years.

1. Generation-Led: Government policy would influence where renewable energy is generated 1. locations policy would influence where renewable energy is generated Generation-Led: – favouring where theGovernment grid is already strong 1. Generation-Led: Government policy would influence where renewable energy – favouring locations where the grid is already strong 2. Developer-Led: In this approach, we continue to connect new sources of renewable is generated – favouring locations where the grid is already strong electricity requested in anyIn location 2. asDeveloper-Led: this approach, we continue to connect new sources of renewable 2. Developer-Led: In this approach, we continue to connect new sources of 3. Technology-Led: This uses technical solutions to make the grid more resilient so electricity asapproach requested in any location renewable electricity as requested in any location it can better handle the variable nature of renewable 3. Technology-Led: This approach usesenergy technical solutions to make the grid more resilient so 3. Technology-Led: This approach uses technical solutions to make the grid more 4. Demand-Led: Government policy determines where of large energy users locate in Ireland it can better handle the variable nature renewable energy

resilient so it can better handle the variable nature of renewable energy Governmentpolicy policy determines determines where users locate in Ireland Demand-Led: 4. 4. Demand-Led: Government wherelarge largeenergy energy users locate To register please go to www.irishrurallink.ie/ Haveyoursay/ in Ireland To register pleasego goto towww.irishrurallink.ie/Haveyoursay/ www.irishrurallink.ie/ Haveyoursay/ To register please People can find out more about the public consultation and how to have their say in Shaping Unit K Roscommon Retail Park, (beside Castlemine Farm Shop), Ireland’s Electricity Future by visiting consult.eirgrid.ie People can findout outmore more about about the consultation andand howhow to have their say Shaping Circular Rd, Roscommon. F42 RC63 People can find thepublic public consultation to have theirinsay Ireland’s Electricity Future by visiting consult.eirgrid.ie in Shaping Ireland’s Electricity Future by visiting consult.eirgrid.ie Telephone 087 719 8909 To find out more about upcoming workshops in your region, please go to wagntailspetshop.ie findout outmore more about about upcoming in your region, pleaseplease go to go to ToTo find upcomingworkshops workshops in your region, www.irishrurallink.ie/Have your say/ www.irishrurallink.ie/Have your say/ *Offer Valid Until 12/5/'21 www.irishrurallink.ie/Have your say/

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople

Arts Officer, Rhona McGrath has encouraged families and young children to become involved in the Creative Roscommon Young Visitor Project.

Tourism Officer with Roscommon County Council Eiméar Dowd has advised people to plan ahead and enjoy the many heritage sites throughout the county.

Creative Roscommon Young Visitor Project encourages children to engage with county’s heritage sites The innovate Creative Roscommon Young Visitor Project aims to encourage families and young children to celebrate and explore a series of outdoor heritage sites in the county through a collection of fun and creative resources. The project is being launched this week by Roscommon County Council to coincide with the reopening of outdoor heritage sites under revised Government guidelines from today, Monday, April 26th. Roscommon County Council, through the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Jobs Stimulus Measure 2020, has developed the project, which is aimed at primary children throughout the county. Through a collaboration with artist Catherine Fanning and writer Maura Gilligan, the Young Visitor Project features a number of resources including drawings, stories and infor-

mation which are available as printable downloads on www. visitroscommon.ie. The project features ‘Rossie the Heritage Duck’ as the main character and encourages children to visit, colour and read about a number of key heritage sites in County Roscommon namely, Roscommon Castle, Roscommon Abbey, Lough Key, Boyle Abbey, Elphin Windmill and Tulsk Abbey. The printable resources include interesting facts and stories about each heritage site, colouring pages featuring images of the tourist site and a map of County Roscommon detailing the key locations of heritage sites in the county. The project is being spearheaded by the Arts, Tourism and Heritage Officers on the Culture Team at Roscommon County Council, and Arts Officer, Rhona McGrath, has encouraged families and young

children to become involved. “This is a wonderful project which allows children to engage creatively with some key heritage sites in their own county and will allow them to learn some interesting historical facts in a fun and engaging way by reading, colouring and visiting sites such as Boyle Abbey or Roscommon Castle for example,” she said. “By downloading the resources, children can learn for example the fact that Boyle Abbey was the first successful Cistercian Abbey in Connacht founded in 1161 on the banks of the Boyle River, where the monastery became a famous centre of learning for more than 400 years”. The Arts Officer has also encouraged primary schools throughout the county to become involved in the exciting project by placing a link to the downloadable resources of

Creative Roscommon Young Visitor Project on their school websites. “We are spreading the message through local press and social media and I would also encourage parents or guardians to take a photo of children’s finished artwork and post it on social media with the hashtag #visitroscommon,” said Rhona. Heritage Officer Nollaig Feeney highlighted the fact that County Roscommon features a wealth of fascinating key heritage sites. “Through the fun and entertaining medium of ‘Rossie the Heritage Duck’, children can be introduced to some of the top heritage sites in County Roscommon. “For example, did you know that Elphin Windmill is one of the oldest working windmills in Ireland, and the only fully restored working windmill in Connacht or the fact that the

sculpted stone tomb of Felim O’Conor, King of Connacht, stands close to the High Altar of Roscommon Abbey. These are just some of the fascinating facts waiting to be discovered and introduced to a new younger generation. County Roscommon has a plethora of top heritage sites just waiting to be discovered,” Nollaig said. Rossie the Heritage Duck was the brainchild of artist Catherine Fanning and writer Maura Gilligan, has brought the heritage sites to life through a series of short stories on each location. With the reopening of outdoor heritage sites under revised Government guidelines from Monday, April 26th, Tourism Officer with Roscommon County Council, Eiméar Dowd, has advised people to plan ahead and enjoy the many heritage sites throughout the county.

“Now that many of the outdoor heritage are re-opened and travel restrictions being revised to allow people travel within their own county, this is the ideal time to get out and about and enjoy the many great tourist sites we have throughout County Roscommon. The days are getting longer and the weather is improving, so why not pack a picnic and make a day of it, by visiting some of our amazing heritage sites such as Roscommon Castle, Tulsk Abbey or Lough Key. There is so much waiting to be discovered right here in County Roscommon,” she said. Printable resources are available to download through www.visitroscommon.ie. For more information, contact Roscommon County Council Arts Office on 090-6637321 or email rmcgrath@roscommoncoco.ie.

Introducing ‘Rossie the Heritage Duck’ Rossie the Heritage Duck was the brainchild of artist Catherine Fanning and writer Maura Gilligan who have brought the heritage sites to life through a series of short stories on each location. A visual artist on the Roscommon Artist Panel, based in Sligo with over 20 years’ experience, Catherine Fanning is a community arts development worker and she was delighted to collaborate with Roscommon County Council on this innovative project, through

the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Jobs Stimulus Measure 2020. Catherine developed a series of drawings of a number of heritage buildings to encourage children to explore through colour. She asked writer Maura Gilligan, a published writer and poet, with vast experience of working with children, adults, and older people to work alongside her. “I live in Ballymote, Sligo and work in the Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon,

Mayo region. My art practice is in the areas of painting, printing, mixed media and arts participation. I have been a working artist since graduating from Sligo IT in 2000,” Catherine explained. “The natural world is a dominant source of inspiration. My creative process develops through experimenting with collage, print, and drawing with a range of materials including carbon paper, pastels and acrylic ink. “I collect small botanical pieces,

such as seed pods, wildflowers, grass and leaves. These finds, with their delicate forms, intricate patterns, and natural tones, decorate my studio space and become a reference for my work. They give me a starting point from which my work evolves. I will often work on several pieces at a time, as I enjoy an expressive and experimental way of working. Colour layering and pattern, are the key elements in my work,” she concluded.

Rossie the Heritage Duck brainchild of artist Cather was the a visual artist on the Ros ine Fanning, Panel, based in Sligo wit common Artist h over 20 years’ experience.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Boundlessly breaking barriers: Roscommon’s Dee Coakley < PAUL HEALY

It was brilliant to see a Rossie taking over the cover of one of the top Sunday newspaper pull-outs at the weekend. The Sunday Business Post publishes a quality ‘Technology in Business’ magazine once a month. It’s called ‘Connected’. The latest edition features an interview with Roscommon town native Dee Coakley. On the cover is a photo of Dee with the headline ‘Dee Coakley’s Boundless Potential’. Daughter of well-known local couple Tom and Margaret Coakley, Dee has risen to the position of MD at a company called Boundless. Emmett Ryan writes: “For Dee Coakley, becoming a founder was never part of the plan. But her experience in tech put her on course to create Boundless, one of Ireland’s most exciting young companies”.

The Sunday Business Post feature story explains what Boundless does. The company helps businesses with international teams employ staff in compliance with local laws, observing local taxes, and being able to stand out as a competitive employer in those markets. Dee founded the company in 2019 (with partners) after a number of years working in the tech area. In her interview with Connected, she recounts how her career has progressed to this point, with various human resources roles in companies in different countries at different times. Much-travelled, she eventually moved into ‘tech’ just over a decade ago. Like so many great ideas, the one that catapulted her career to a new level seems like a simple and obvious one. Dee identified problems faced by companies operating in different juris-

dictions. Boundless helps those companies to overcome such challenges. Boundless now operates in 13 countries (the target is to hit 35 by the end of this year) and employs 12 full-time staff and five contract staff. The aim is to have a 50-strong team by the end of 2021. The company is on a pretty spectacular upward curve. The Roscommon woman (42) is now CEO. It’s a great success story. Says Dee: “We’re at a really exciting point. We have great country reach, awesome customers and great responses…talent is everywhere. We all accept that now, especially after the last year. There are great people all over the world”. Well done to Roscommon town woman Dee Coakley on this timely cover story feature in the Sunday Business Post – and we wish her ‘boundless’ continued success!

Dee Coakley pictured on front cover of the Sunday Business Post

TAKE A BREAK

t smiles The column tha n! through lockdow HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO… Famous birthdays today

(April 29, 2021)

Throwback Thursday!

“

Here’s another fascinating photograph…it was taken outside the then M. A. Farrell store in Church Street, Roscommon. What decade, and who are the people photographed? All feedback to paul@roscommonpeople.ie very welcome! (Watch out for #ThrowbackTuesday on our social media platforms). Photo from Micksie Farrell Collection, courtesy of Pat Hughes & Sean Browne

Daniel Day-Lewis (Actor, 64)

Willie Nelson (Singer, 88)

Andre Agassi (Tennis great, 51)

Michelle Pfeiffer (Actress, 63)

Sir Patrick is still going strong! I was pleased to get an update recently on the wellbeing of the remarkable Sir Patrick Duffy. Sir Patrick, a distinguished public servant in the UK, is looking forward to celebrating his 101st birthday this June, and remains in very good health. Sir Patrick’s parents hailed from just across the RoscommonMayo border in Aghamore. One of Mayo’s most distinguished emigrant sons, Roscommon is also very close to his heart. When I met town resident Michael Morris recently, he cheerily informed me that Sir Patrick is now the oldest living former MP in England.

Patrick, or ‘Pat’, has had a fascinating life. Before going on to hold some of the most distinguished positions in Parliament and international institutions, he was a pilot. He almost died in an air crash near The Orkneys – and was even given the Last Rites. Later, he provided a false age to volunteer for service in World War Two and went on to rise to First Lieutenant. After the war, Sir Pat graduated from the London School of Economics and studied at Columbia University in New York before lecturing at Leeds University. After becoming a Labour MP, he was appointed shadow defence minister (in 1979) and went on to

play key roles in paving the way for the end of the Cold War and the establishment of the Good Friday Agreement. As President of the NATO Assembly in the 1980s, he also had direct contact with the White House and the Kremlin. Sir Patrick is extremely fond of Co. Roscommon and has many friends here. A few years ago he launched his autobiography in Castlecoote Lodge. Prior to Covid, he was still making regular visits here. A keen fan of the Irish soccer and rugby teams, he remains in good health as he looks forward to his 101st birthday. – Paul Healy.

The things people say… “People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day”

– A.A. Milne (English author)

For updates, check our social channels

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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Sarah Keane Higgins pictured with Henry at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Ou t & Abo ut

Dylan Hunt, Darragh Mulrennan and Conor Taylor pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Norman Sturdy and Darragh Mulrennan pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sisters, Sarah and Emma Gorman were pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Declan Henry, Leanne Cornwall, Sarah Keane Higgins and Henry pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Nadine Donnellan and Ciara Farrell, Cloonfad, pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Making a splash! Lisa O’Rourke and Michael Conroy, Castlerea, pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Soaking up the sun at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Andrew Dillon and Jack Mahon pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Errit Lake, Gortaganny recently are the Bruen and Moran cousins from Moyne and Ballinagare. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

NewsPeople

Strokestown Golf Club

OPEN FOR NEW MEMBERSHIP €224 1st Year Beginner €174 Distant Member €74 Student

Mens Club Captain: 083 4648156 strokestowngolfclub@gmail.com

Great to be back…but I won’t expect a Tour invite anytime soon! < SEAMUS DUKE Pictured at Roscommon Golf Club this week were Club President John Cunningham, Captain Johnny Walker, and Lady Captain Mary O’Connor.

Back in the swing! < DAN DOONER

There were plenty of happy faces on the fairways, greens and even the rough of Roscommon’s golf courses this week as clubs welcomed members back following an easing of lockdown restrictions on Monday. At Roscommon Golf Club, Secretary Paula Connaughton said the committee was delighted to reopen in glorious sunshine following a lay-off of almost four months. “The timesheet was full from dawn to dusk, with members following all safety guidelines,” she said. “Club volunteers were on hand during the day to assist with the re-start, and feedback from the members was hugely positive, with many commenting on the wonderful condition of the course”. Paula added that despite some rustiness, members were re-

lieved to be getting back into the swing of things. “There might have been the odd sliced drive or missed putt! But that didn’t seem to matter at all, as members were just delighted to be back out on the fairways,” she said. Registrar Charlie Farrell said the club had welcomed many new members last year, and that positive growth trend looks set to continue into 2021. “This growth is mirrored in our junior boys’ and girls’ sections, where the club juniors have enjoyed recent All-Ireland success at schools and club level. Junior Academy registration for current and new junior members will take place at the club from 11 am to 1 pm on Saturday, May 1st, with boys and girls Junior Convenors, John Lennon and Sandra Crean, in attendance and all safety protocols in place,” he said. Charlie also highlighted the va-

Pictured at Strokestown Golf Club this week were Rose Lally and Tony Patton. Pic: Mick McCormack

riety of attractive adult membership packages currently available (see Roscommon Golf Club’s advertisement on this page for more information). Roscommon Golf Club Treasurer, Liam Byrne, noted the affect a succession of Covid-19 ‘lockdowns’ had had on the club. “Seven months of lockdowns have proved challenging for the club‘s finances, but with the continuing easing of restrictions and protocols, competitions can re-commence, together with the club being in a position to welcome green fee and society visitors later in the summer,” he said. “It is an exciting time for golf. We have a new governing body, Golf Ireland, which is an amalgamation of the old men’s GUI and ladies’ ILGU. We also have a new handicapping system, the WHS, which members have also been fully advised of,” he added. Meanwhile in Strokestown, Director and Treasurer, Tony Patton, said members were also delighted to back in action this week. “We are really delighted to be back here in Strokestown and we look forward to welcoming new members in the very near future, especially new lady members as the ladies’ game continues to grow in popularity,” he said. “It’s only open to members at the moment but we are hopeful that will change in the coming weeks and we can welcome everyone to our beautiful little picturesque course”. Tony is confident that new members will fall in love with Strokestown, much like he did! “My mother hailed from Lifford in Co. Donegal and I was educated in St. Columb’s in Derry before spending 22 years in Galway. Of course then I fell in love and moved here to beautiful Strokestown,” he said. “I’m looking forward now to a busy summer on the course and seeing people happy again,” he concluded.

Local golfers return as restrictions ease ROSCOMMON

On Tuesday morning last, myself and a friend met to play a few holes of golf for the first time since the easing of restrictions and it was a really enjoyable experience and a sign that maybe, just maybe, we are beginning to get our lives back. I suspect that the story is the same elsewhere, but Roscommon Golf Club is in fantastic shape having been deserted for the past four months. Despite the fact that there was a threat of rain, we managed to get 12 holes in and our experience begged the question as to why it was deemed appropriate to stop golf and other outdoor pursuits in the first place. At no point on Tuesday morning were we anywhere near as close as two metres apart. Indeed, it was multiples of that at all times. But that’s for another day. As for our performance…Well let’s just say we won’t be applying to join the PGA Tour anytime soon! But it was just great to be back.

WE ARE OPEN Roscommon Golf Club

Mote Park, Roscommon Email: roscommongolfclub@gmail.com Tel. 090 6626382

Roscommon Golf Club is delighted to be open once again for our members to enjoy the delights and challenges of our beautiful 18 Hole parkland golf course whilst maintaining social distancing guidelines.

We would also like to welcome New Members to our sport and our club and we have keen rates available across a number of categories, including beginners, lapsed members wishing to rejoin, student, university and junior members. For information on all rates and offers please contact:

Charlie Farrell at 087 9159650 Email: roscommongolfclubregistrar@gmail.com Web: www.roscommongolfclub.ie Follow us on our Facebook and Twitter Pages.

We also look forward to welcoming back green fees and society visitors later in the year.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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Dead & Worn-Out Animals

land was €7,900. The survey of 156 auctioneers and valuers from all over the country - conducted in February – found that demand for rented ground also remains strong with rents this year expected to rise by 6% in Connacht/Ulster, 8% in Leinster and 5% in Munster. SCSI member Ivan Connaughton, of Athleague-based Connaughton Auctioneers, said that lockdowns due to Covid had led to a reduction in the volume of sales. “The inability to view holdings or physical auctions led to a significant increase in the number of sellers postponing plans to sell land. In our survey, over a third of agents (35%) reported a decrease in the volume of land sold in 2020 compared with 19% in 2019. Virtual viewing options have been

< DAN DOONER

A Castleplunkett student was named as the FBD Farm Safe Schools champion for Connacht. David Nally, a fifth class student at Castleplunkett National School, was chosen after his name was put forward for the award. David’s school is currently taking part in the Farm Safe Schools pilot programme, which aims to kick start farm safety conversations in classrooms nationwide. Each month one dedicated champion is selected fro each region and award-

ed a certificate of achievement and a family pass to Dublin Zoo, sponsored by FBD Insurance. David was adjudged to have demonstrated “excellence, innovation and commitment” to improving farm safety awareness. Farm Safe Schools coordinator and AgriKids founder, Alma Jordan, explained what made the young Castleplunkett student stand out from the crowd. “We received a huge volume of entries for this inaugural FBD Regional Awards and it proves the ability and capability of

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of Munster on 5%. The low level of supply is again an issue in the rental market, but it’s not Covid related. Here the issue is leases with twenty-four per-cent of agents reporting a decline in the volume of land leases in 2020 compared to just 8% in 2019 as more land is ‘locked up’ in long-term leases,” Mr. Connaughton said. The SCSI report revealed that Leinster had the highest prices in 2020 because of the higher quality of land in the province and the high demand for it. For good land, less than 50 acres, average prices in the province ranged from a high of €13,600 in Kildare – the highest in the country - to €7,900 in Longford, while the prices for poor quality ranged from a high of €8,300 per acre in Kildare to €5,500, again in Longford.

our children to change the culture around farm safety. “David is very much active on the farm at home and is a keen bee keeper. He shared every aspect of farm work with his class and outlined the various safety measures that must be taken. His willingness to share on the topic of farm safety is tremendous, this is exactly what Farm Safe Schools is all about,” she said. The Farm Safe Schools pilot is a joint collaboration between Agri Aware, AgriKids, the IFA and is supported by the FBD Trust.

Connacht Champion! David Nally, a fifth class student at Castleplunkett National School, Roscommon, was named as Connacht’s FBD Farm Safe Schools Champion recently.

ICMSA: Northern steers fetch €250 more than ‘southern’ equivalent

JOHN GREENE

available to sellers, but clearly many have a preference for more traditional auction sales. “In Connacht/Ulster average land quality is typically lower than other regions, tends to be available in smaller lots, and is mainly for grass-based agriculture. While Covid has affected sales activity, it hasn’t affected output or prices and as a result farmer confidence about the future has been unaffected. The land market has shown strong resilience throughout the pandemic and agents believe prices will rise on average by 4% this year. “In the rental market, while Connacht/Ulster did report a decrease in prices last year – by 13% for grazing land – prices are expected to rebound by 6% this year, a little behind Leinster on 8% but ahead

Castleplunkett student is FBD Farm Safe Schools Champion!

Contact

TOM ROGERS

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SCSI auctioneers and valuers say land prices remained resilient last year despite the threat posed by Covid-19 and are predicted to rise by 4% on average this year, underpinned by a rise in farm incomes as well as strong demand and reduced supply. The average price of an acre of good quality land under 50 acres in Roscommon was €8,200, the same as Mayo and second highest in the region, while the price of an acre of poor quality was €4,500. According to the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland/Teagasc Agricultural Land Market Review and Outlook Report 2021, the average price in Connacht/Ulster of an acre of non-residential poorquality land under 50 acres last year was €4,600 while the average price of an acre of good quality

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

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

SCSI: Roscommon land prices ranged from €4,500 to €8,200

Keeping cool: Thanks to Tom Tully, who sent us this photograph of quiet contentment from Boyle!

ICMSA Livestock Chairperson, Des Morrison, has this week highlighted the 70 cents per kilo difference between Northern beef prices and their southern counterparts. A difference Mr. Morrison has previously described as “staggering” and “inexplicable” and which he estimates as amounting to a difference of €250 to €300 in UK factory prices “We drew attention to this gulf in price earlier this year, but it’s still there and we’re now seeing it in marts close to the border versus further south. We are seeing angus-bred cattle making €2.50 to €260 per kg LW in the marts”, said Mr. Morrison. “What’s infuriating is seeing factory buyers willing to compete with

northern buyers at the marts and pay above the cost of production, but dropping those prices when farmers bring cattle directly to the factory for slaughter. Why not give the money directly to the farmers? “If the factory buyers are willing to pay €4.50 - €4.90/Kg DW at the marts then we’re looking at approximately €200 per head, as well as QA bonus on top of that. I can’t understand why the factories can’t give those prices to farmers if they’re prepared to pay them competing with the buyers in marts. The net result is that in what’s considered to be a reasonably good time for beef prices, we’re actually still below the costs of production,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

FarmingPeople

ICMSA’s Milk Price Tracker could be a ‘game changer’ < DAN DOONER

Hailed as a “game changer” for Irish dairy farmers, a new interactive Milk Price Tracker which allows

farmers to see exactly what they would have been paid by every processor in Ireland for their milk supply, has just been launched by the Irish Creamery Milk

Suppliers Association (ICMSA). Described as the first of its kind, the price comparison tool will allow farmers to input their individual

Pat McCormack, ICMSA President.

Castlerea MART WATCH Large numbers of stock presented for sale last week and, aided by recent improvement in weather conditions, trade and prices were maintained and in some cases improved upon, as customers were anxious to source stock. The weanling rings reported good clearances as the bulls peaked at €3.14 a kilo and the heifer weanlings reached €3.65 a kilo. The store heifers remain a good trade also with breeding type lots and forward stores the best sellers. The cow trade reported a good clearance with excellent demand for both the forward lots and the stores, lots peaked at €2.37 a kilo. Breeding stock with more numbers on offer peaked at €2,220 for a Ch cow and her Limousin bull calf at foot, while the calf trade reported a good clearance also with prices determined by quality. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,270 to €2,220. Springers made from €970 to €1,560 per head. Breeding bulls made from €1,180 to €1,700 per head. Runners made from €330 to €800 for continental lots. There were 150 bullocks on offer at the sale on Monday, April 19th with an excellent clearance reported. Forward lots in particular were in strong demand with bullocks making up to €1,090 over their weight. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday, 29th) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Covid-19 restrictions remain in place. Sample prices for heifers: Lm 410kgs €1060, Ch 385kgs €1010, Lm 435kgs €1170, Ch 450kgs €1150, Ch 695kgs €1630, Lm 660kgs €1570, Lm 565kgs €1430. Dry cows: Lm 465kgs €890, Fr 480kgs €600, Lm 690kgs €1640, Ch 715kgs €1620, Lm 680kgs €1600, SA 780kgs €1550, Hex 800kgs €1540, Lm 635kgs €1470. Calves: AA hfr €150, Hex bull €250, AA bull €330, AA hfr €250, AA bull €250, Ch bull €410. Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs €920, Lm 295kgs €870, Ch 255kgs €780, Ch 315kgs €930, Ch 370kgs €1140, Ch 330kgs €1090, AA 220kgs €660. Weanling heifers: Ch 295kgs €910, Lm 275kgs €860, Lm 345kgs €1260, Lm 340kgs €1100, Lm 345kgs €980, Ch 235kgs €790, Ch 410kgs €990. Bullocks: Ch 415kgs €1250, Ch 495kgs €1240, AA 495kgs €1200, AA 540kgs €1350, Lm 595kgs €1680, Ch 590kgs €1430, Ch 610kgs €1600, Lm 700kgs €1790, BBx 660kgs €1400.

milk volumes, constituents and quality results and see, at the touch of a button, what they would have been paid for the same supply by each Irish milk processor. The facility, which is available on the icmsa.ie website, affords an element of transparency and comparision on an individual basis. The unique tool has undergone extensive preparation and testing. ICMSA President, Pat McCormack, has said the term “game changer” is often over-used, but that there was no other way of representing the power the new Milk Price Tracker will place in the hands of individual dairy farmers. “Farmers can now track and map their milk processor’s performance over any given period and compare it to other processors. The capacity for individual farmer comparison on a

like-for-like basis is now there for every milk supplier in Ireland. “It’s a very significant day for farmers and a very significant achievement for ICMSA – one in which we invested a lot of time and effort”, said the ICMSA President. “Milk price is central to dairy farmers’ incomes and the performance of your processor is decisive in this regard. The ICMSA Interactive Milk Price Tracker is now available to anyone on icmsa.ie, and allows dairy farmers to see what they would have been paid by any processor in the country for their individual supply, for the first time ever. “It’s a giant leap forward for farmers in terms of transparency and performance comparison, and makes hugely valuable information available to farmers at the touch of a button”.

hoggets made up to €168 for 66.7kgs, and stag ewes made up to €145. There were excellent quality ewe hoggets on offer, with a top price of €196. Cast ewes made from €50 to €145 per lot, ewes with two lambs at foot made up to €280, and ewes with one lamb at foot made up to €240. Our next sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes takes place at 11 am on Wednesday, May 5th. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note that 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: Simm X 770kgs €1650, Char X 770kgs €1580, Lim X 705kgs €1550, Lim X 710kgs €710kgs €1500, Lim X 675kgs €1470, AAX 650kgs €1330, Simm X 640kgs €1290, Simm X 620kgs €1240, BBX 580kgs €1190, Lim 610kgs €1160, Lim X 480kgs €950, PTX 640kgs €1200. Heifers: Char X 600kgs €1440, Char X 530kgs €1300, Char X 525kgs €1250, Lim X 535kgs €1250, Lim X 480kgs €1210, Char X 530kgs €1190, 2 AAX 452kgs €1080, 3 AAX 383kgs €920, Lim X 340kgs €850, Lim X 265kgs €650. Bullocks: Lim X 735kgs €1850, Lim X 755kgs €1830, Char X 695kgs 1830, Lim X 695kgs €1820, Lim X 685kgs €1810, Lim X 665kgs €1790, AAX 700kgs €1720, 2 Simm X 645kgs €1600, Lim X 595kgs €1670, Char

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

Friday, April 30th at 11 am.

End of the Month Special Sale of Heifers - 42 pens on offer Also Bullocks and Dry Cows ----------------------

Friday, 7th May at 11 a.m.

Special Bealtaine Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 4th ----------------------

Friday, May 14th at 11 a.m.

Special Bealtaine Sale of Heifers

Roscommon MART WATCH We had a good entry of topquality stock on offer at last Friday’s, with a lively trade for all classes. Bullocks averaged from €2.52 per kilo up to €3.22 per kilo. Heifer numbers were small due to next week’s special sale, but there was full clearance for the heifers on offer, with prices ranging from an average of €2.32 per kilo up to €2.55 per kilo. There was good demand for dry cows, with lots averaging from €1.83 per kilo up to €2.19 per kilo and a full clearance of lots. This Friday (30th), we will have a special sale of heifers and general sale of bullocks and dry cows. Please note that all customers must wear a facemask or a face covering. There were similar numbers on offer at our sale for weanlings and suckler cows this week. The trade for weanling bulls was slightly easier, with prices making an average of €2.37 per kilo up to €3.21 per kilo. There was a good demand for weanling heifers, with prices averaging from €2.37 per kilo up to €3.21 per kilo. Our next sale of weanlings and suckler cows takes place on Tuesday next, May 4th. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm today (Thursday 29th). There was a smaller entry of sheep on offer at our sheep sale on Wednesday, April 28th, with a dip in trade for spring lambs, hoggets and cast ewes. Spring lambs made up to €168 for 53kgs, finished

X 590kgs €1600, 2 Char X 572kgs €1470, 3 Lim X 461kgs €1490, Lim X 510kgs €1540, 2 AAX 570kgs €1440, 2 Char X 462kgs €1440, Char X 440kgs €1360, 6 Char X 439kgs €1340, 2 AAX 490kgs €1260, 2 Lim X 490kgs €1260, AAX 490kgs €1200. Weanling heifers: Char X 385kgs €1170 - €3.03 per kilo, Char X 410kgs €1080 €2.63 per kilo, Char X 345kgs €1050 – €3.45 per kilo, Char 365kgs €1010 - €2.76 per kilo, Lim 350kgs €860 - €860 - €2.45 per kilo, Lim 300kgs €860 - €2.86 per kilo, Char 245kgs €750 - €3.06 per kilo, Simm X 270kgs €670 - €2.34 per kilo, AAX 315kgs €710 €2.25 per kilo. Weanling bulls: Char X 375kgs €1160 - €3.09 per kilo, Char X 390kgs €1160 €2.97 per kilo, Char X 395kgs €1130 - €2.86 per kilo, Lim X 450kgs €1060 - €2.35 per kilo, Char X 350kgs €1030 €2.94 per kilo, Char X 305kgs €970 - €3.18 per kilo, Char X 285kgs €880 - €3.08 per kilo, Lim X 345kgs €920 - €2.66 per kilo, Lim X 280kgs €830 €2.96 per kilo, Lim X 190kgs €610 - €3.21 per kilo. Spring lambs: 53kgs €168, 46kgs €164, 49kgs €160, 43kgs €158, 47.2kgs €157, 45.8kgs €154, 43.6kgs €150. Ewe hoggets: 68.3kgs €196, 61.8kgs €194, 63kgs €184, and 63kgs €180. Finished hoggets: 66.7kgs €168, 58kgs €164, 52kgs €162, 53kgs €160, 46.7kgs €148, 46kgs €139.

Also Bullocks & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday ,May 10th ----------------------

Tuesday, May 4th at 4 p.m.

Special Bealtaine Sale of Weanlings Also Suckler Cows

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 29th ----------------------

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Wednesday Evening May 12th at 6 p.m.

Sale of Simmental X Heifers (Approx 100 on offer)- Full details in next week’s issue ----------------------

Lambs, Cast Ewes, In Lamb Ewes & Ewes with Lambs at foot - Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

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ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Business

Local Enterprise Offices supporting over 35,000 jobs Local Enterprise Offices are now supporting over 7,500 companies and 35,000 jobs, according the 2020 LEO results, which were announced by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment Leo Varadkar last week. The Local Enterprise Offices are now supporting 35,236 jobs across 7,529 companies. 2020 also saw the successful transition of 133 companies from the Local Enterprise Of-

Closing date for Digital Town Awards this Friday (30th April) The closing date for applications for the .IE Digital Town Awards has been extended to 5 pm this Friday (April 30th), with the online portal remaining open for those who have already made an application to make any last-minute changes. .IE, the company which manages and maintains Ireland’s country domain name, is calling on Roscommon community groups and projects to submit final entries. The competition has a total prize fund of €100,000 across 14 different categories. It is designed to recognise community initiatives, town projects and people that have shown how digital projects have contributed to enhancements in areas such as health, tourism, education, public services, employment opportunities, citizen empowerment, and social entrepreneurship. Eleven of the awards will shine a light on digital projects, with a further three special awards recognising a Digital Changemaker, Digital Rising Star, and a Digital Hero – all of which will be decided on by independent judging panel. For more information, check out www.weare.ie.

fices to Enterprise Ireland as they continue to scale and look to international markets. The Tánaiste said Local Enterprise Offices continue to “play a really important role in fostering enterprise across the country”. “LEOs are at the very heart of business in communities across the country. The work they do is invaluable and I want to express my particular appreciation to all LEO staff for their professionalism

and commitment. I know 2020 was a really difficult year for them and for the businesses they help. The coming months will be similarly busy as we reopen our economy, and help businesses get back on their feet. I know LEOs will be to the forefront as we rebuild after the pandemic,” Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said. Supported by the Government, Local Enterprise Office supported companies created 5,585 new jobs in 2020. De-

spite the new jobs created, there was a net jobs loss of 1,494 across the LEO portfolio of client companies in what was a challenging year for small businesses. LEOs approved 13,091 Trading Online Vouchers to assist businesses get online to trade or improve their existing online offering. This was up over 950% from 1,218 in 2019. Last year, the Local Enterprise Offices trained over 77,000 entrepre-

neurs and business representatives, up from 37,000 the year previous. 16,231 completed business-mentoring assignments, up from 10,756 in 2019. Over €22 million was approved by Local Enterprise Offices in 2020 for projects to help improve clients’ businesses in a range of areas. This figure was up from €20 million in 2019 and is the largest amount of approved funding by the Local Enterprise Offices to small businesses to date.

Go West: WDC launches online jobs portal < DAN DOONER

In a bid to encourage employees and their families to move west for a better quality of life, the Western Development Commission (WDC) has launched a new online jobs portal called Westernjobs.ie. The portal will help jobseekers find vacancies and open roles in counties like Roscommon and assist employers in guaging the availability and depth of skills they require. The new portal is sure to provide a boost to the western region as more and more people continue to work remotely through the pandemic. The WDC is encouraging these workers to make a permanent and viable move west, where they will be able to enjoy housing and living costs that are amongst the lowest in Ireland. The new, free to use portal will give jobseekers the chance to land a new job and it will also give employers information on the talent pool available to them in a particular county. There are currently roles available across sectors such as ecommerce, MedTech, IT and engineering in the Western region. Companies currently hiring include Boston Scientific, Cora Systems, GSK, Aran Biomedical, Abbott, Aerogen, Harmac Medical, SITA Aero, Intel, SL Controls, Frankli and Beckman Coulter. The WDC recently launched a ‘More to Life’ campaign to showcase the excellent quality of life and career opportunities available to professionals who move to the region.

Pictured is Karen Sweeney (Regional Communications Executive, Western Development Commission) and Allan Mulrooney (Head of Communications, WDC and AEC Development). Picture: James Connolly

Commenting on the launch of the Westernjobs.ie portal, Western Development Commission CEO Tomás Ó Síocháin, said: “As well as senior roles that are currently open, westernjobs.ie will help to attract other employers looking for talent and allow those that move the op-

portunity to get their next move and, more importantly to build a career. The WDC is supporting the transition to remote work and remote working hubs toward balanced regional development, this will be the first step many will take in finding out that there is more to life on

Ireland’s Atlantic Coast”. Employers, including Co. Roscommon-based Harmac Medical Products, will also be using the new portal. Ruth O’Donohoe, Human Resources Manager, Harmac Medical Products, said: “We are proud to support western-

jobs.ie as an important destination for talented people seeking great careers in the western region, and in Co Roscommon in particular. As a showcase for employees and employers alike, we are delighted to be part of this initiative”. For more, visit westernjobs.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

PropertyPeople

Online multi-auction at Earley’s on May 27th Property Partners Earley are currently listing properties for their forthcoming national online multi-auction, and welcome all residential, commercial or agricultural properties. They offer a comprehensive pre-auction online and news-

paper marketing campaign, and offer nationwide market exposure using their network of partner offices. All properties can also avail of a 360-degree walk through virtual tour and drone aerial imagery at no extra cost. For further details or to ar-

range a free consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) on 086-2551380 or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) on 086-8952283. Contact Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579, or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Earley’s ‘Sale of the Week’ at Strokestown

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET

A QUALITY 4 B/R MID-TERRACE PROPERTY OF APPROX. 1,588 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

2 THE WATERFRONT, TARMONBARRY, CO. ROSCOMMON (Overlooking the River Shannon) Price Guide: €175,000.

A beautifully presented 4 B/R mid terrace residence located in the exclusive Waterfront development. The said property is presented for sale in excellent condition throughout and offers spacious living accommodation overlooking the River Shannon to the front. This is a rare opportunity to acquire such a property and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and offers to sell. BER: C2. -------------------------------------------------------A STUNNING WATERSIDE RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 1,800 SQ.FT STANDING ON APPROX. 1.9 ACRES LOCATED AT

KILGARVE, ROOSKEY, CO. ROSCOMMON N41 P206

(With valuable water access onto Grange Lough). Price Guide: €200,000.

Substantial Strokestown property available with John Earley market a substantial, eight-bedroomed (all ensuite), dormerstyle residence of circa 3,100

PRSA No. 001481

NEW TO THE MARKET

This week, David Diffley of Property Partners Earley, is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a dormer residence, situated at Cloonfree, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, for a very satisfactory price. David described the property as a “most attractive dormer-style residence, located in a select residential area conveniently situated between Stokestown and Tulsk. The residence was presented for sale in good condition throughout, and offers spacious living accommodation, together with a large and mature site area. Two character stone built storage sheds service the said residence, with all services located on site”. David added: “We have experienced a very busy selling period, with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed under bidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto propertypartners.ie.

This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley Roscommon, is offering to the

PROPERTY PARTNERS

square feet, located at Cairn John describes the property House, Curry, Strokestown, as “A stunning and substanCo. Roscommon. tial eight-bedroomed (all ensuite), detached, dormer-style residence, finished to the highest of standard throughout. This imposing property stands on a beautifully mature and elevated site area of approximately 2.37 acres, with unobstructed views of the rolling green countryside to the front. “Offering approximately 3,100 square feet of spacious living accommodation throughout, this fine property is ideally positioned to operate as a guesthouse, or indeed as a substantial family residence”. The auctioneers highly recommend viewings and all offers are invited for immediate sale. For further details, or to arrange a viewing, contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie, or log onto propertypartners.ie.

A character waterside residence standing on a beautiful site area of approx. 1.9 acres adjacent to the renowned Grange Lough on the famous inner lakes of the River Shannon adjacent to Rooskey village. The said property is finished to the highest level throughout and offers spacious and feature living accommodation together with panoramic lake views. Benefiting from a 1st floor conversion of 2 number rooms and a bathroom area with potential for additional residential accommodation (subject to planning permission), this is a property that must be viewed to be fully appreciated. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: C3. --------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A LUXURY 3 B/R SEMI-DETACHED RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 1,100 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

32 CHESTNUT GROVE, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €115,000.

A quality 3 B/R semi detached residence located in the attractive Chestnut Grove development and within walking distance of Tulsk Village and all local amenities. The said property is presented for sale in show house condition throughout and offers spacious living accommodation together with a generous rear garden area. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: B3. Legal: Kieran Maddigan & Co, Castlerea. 094 96 22552.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie of Professional ipav Institute Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Auctioneer & Valuers Fax: (090) 6625405 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

PropertyPeople PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS

We are now seeking quality family homes in all areas. Reply in confidence to REA Seamus Carthy on 090 6630001.

NEW TO THE MARKET Ballyglass, Ballinagare. Co, Roscommon, F45 K231

NEW TO THE MARKET Sligo Road, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon, F45 XV56

NEW TO THE MARKET

PRELIMINARY NOTICE

4 Hanley Avenue, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon, F45 RP08

Carrowmore, Newtowncashel, Co. Longford, N39 F240

Cloonarragh, Derrane, Co. Roscommon c.16 acres of prime agricultural land on a mature setting offering potential. Enquiries now invited.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE Shankill, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Traditional 3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow presented in excellent condition on c. 2.5 acres of Land with 2 no. Traditional Stone Outbuildings and 1 no. 2 Bay Hay Shed with enclosed Lean to. Enquiries and offers now invited. Guide Price: €120,000

2 No. Semi Detached Two Storey houses requiring complete refurbishment. To the rear, there are a further 2 acres of land offering obvious potential. For Sale by Online Auction 27th May, excellent value on offer. AMV: €60,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN

Quality 4 Bedroom Semi Detached Home presented in excellent condition throughout and benefiting from a purpose built working from home detached office to rear. Situated in a village location and centrally positioned to the larger towns of Castlerea and Ballaghaderreen. Guide Price: €115,000

Attractive 4 Bedroom Detached Bungalow with Detached Outbuildings all set on a large 1 acre site. The said property offers excellent further potential and is considered excellent value. Immediate enquiries are advised. Guide Price: €115,000

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

c.12.5 acre of prime land, attractively set adjacent to Elphin Town along the R369 from Tulsk. The said lands offer quality agricultural land on an elevated and mature setting benefiting from 2 no. stone outbuildings situated thereon offering attractive setting for a dwelling subject to planning. Substantial road frontage on the outer suburbs of Elphin Town. Enquiries invited. PSRA Licence No. 002782

Final offers invited for impressive, fourbedroomed family home REA Seamus Carthy are now inviting final offers for No. 9 The Fairways, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town. The property is considered a quality, fourbedroomed family home, attractive in style and presented to the market in pristine condition. Located within the Golf Links suburb of Roscommon Town, this sought after residential location is convenient to all amenities, schools, shops, the local golf course, and Mote Park. This most select, four-bedroomed, dormer-style family home is now available, and Seamus invites every offer above €270,000. Immediate enquiries are advised. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090-6630001, or email info@reacarthy.ie.

Prime site overlooking Castlerea Golf Club for sale by online auction On the market with REA Seamus Carthy, is a prime residential site located opposite Castlerea Golf Club, within a two-minute walk from Castlerea’s main street and all its amenities. The site had previous full planning permission for the construction of two detached dwelling houses, connection into public sewer and all ancillary site

REA Seamus Carthy – experts in online auctions

REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon are experts in online auctions, consistently delivering excellent results for their clients. “We are selling online literally every week, and it has proven to be a most efficient, effec-

tive and transparent process, which both vendors and buyers are now fully embracing,” commented Seamus Carthy, director of REA Seamus Carthy. “We are changing the way properties are sold, and via our auction plat-

form Bidnow.ie, we have successfully sold in excess of €750,000 over the last four months”. It’s an education process for both vendors and purchasers, and Seamus is inviting anybody who is considering either selling or buying

to follow this week’s online auction of a detached, four-bedroomed house at Ballinaheglish. “Why not follow our auction this Friday, April 30th, and see for yourself how it works?” To view the auction, simply log onto reasea-

muscarthy.bidnow.ie/ lot/details/41162, from 12.30 – 1 pm on Friday afternoon. If you are considering selling you property, do not hesitate to contact REA Seamus Carthy on 090-660001, or email info@reacarthy.ie.

works, and is zoned residential in the Castlerea development plan. The property will by for sale by online auction on May 26th, and immediate enquiries now invited. AMV: €50,000. For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy on 090-6630001 or email info@carthy.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Classifieds

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

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

ACCOUNTS McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

PODIATRIST

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

PODIATRIST

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

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

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

The Galway Podiatrist

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

FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

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

087 2798704

• 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 CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

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

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 –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Chimney Cleaning

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Complete Chimney Services

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY SWEEP

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

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

087 9268424

CHIROPRACTOR

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

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?

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

Paul McStay

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

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Pfaff semi-industrial sewing machine, in perfect working order. Ideal for curtains/alterations etc. Roscommon/Longford area. Phone: 087 6158351

087 2721193

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Please call Glynis on

DRIVING LESSONS

COMPUTERS

FENCING/GATES

l l

GARDENING

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

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

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

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

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 4 seater couch, 2 armchairs, 2 footstools, €200, for quick sale. Phone: 086 8855131 < FOR SALE: 2 no 5ft heavy gates, made of box iron, also 17 rung steel ladder. Phone: 087 2131576

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Classifieds GARDENING

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN

• Roscommon Town • Grass and Hedge Cutting • Rotavating • Strimming

CONTACT KEVIN:

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742 GATELY GARDENING

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

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

< WANTED LAND: 15 – 20 acres of land wanted. To rent or lease for 3 – 5 years. For grazing for horses/ponies. Preferably with older barns/cottage or buildings. Near Sliabh Ban Mountain: Doughill, Curraghroe, Ballagh, Kilteevan or Kilrooskey areas. Contact: Melissa 087 2512877

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Kielty intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the following development: to construct a new 3 bay slatted cattle shed, together with all associated site works at Corbally West Td., Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: P. Durkan & Associates Telephone: 071 9630037 Mobile: 086 1600385 Email: padraic.durkan1@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Jason Glynn and Christine Healy, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for Outline Planning Permission for construction of a dwelling house, onsite wastewater treatment system, access onto the public road, connection to services and associated site development works at Carrownanalt Td, Arigna, 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 Dorrary, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 086 1701549

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission for extension and refurbishment of existing dwelling house at Runnabackan, Ballinaheglish and for temporary siting of mobile home on the site with connection to existing septic tank and percolation area.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Denis and Serena Bergin, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission (i) to extend site boundaries from those previously granted under PD/01/863, (ii) for the upgrade of existing septic tank system to a packaged wastewater treatment system and polishing filter, (iii) construction of proposed single storey extension, and (iv) construction of proposed domestic garage, plus all ancillary works at Loughglinn Demesne Td., Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: MoleskinArchitecture Mote Park, Roscommon T: 086 3482387 E: info@moleskinarchitecture.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Wayne Auchmuty (Lakeside Engineering Design Ltd.) and Errol Auchmuty for a divided workshop unit consisting of a workshop for the design and fabrication of prototype farm machinery and general metal fabrication, site fencing, lighting, wastewater treatment system and associated siteworks at Carrownure House, Carrownure Upper, Lecarrow, County Roscommon.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph: (087) 2222874 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, James Kelly am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the change of use of 2 No. Commercial Units to a vehicle dismantling and recycling facility at Ballaghaderreen Business Park, Dublin Road, Lung Td, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Kathryn Newman am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following: 1) Retain alterations and extension to existing cottage to include larger front porch and roof finish. 2) Retain conversion of existing barn to bedrooms. 3) Construct new link from barn to existing house. 4) Upgrade existing treatment system and install new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Killegan, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon,F42 ET18.

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Donal Killion intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the following development: to construct a new 5 bay sheep shed, together with all associated site works at Kellybrook Td., Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael J. Ward intend to apply for planning permission for the following; A. Construction of livestock shed consisting of cubicles, flow channels, and underground slatted slurry tanks. B. Construction of agricultural building consisting of dairy and milking parlour, underground slatted parlour washings tank, and unroofed handling facilities and collecting yard. C. Construction of 2 no. silage slabs and a dungstead. D. Erection of meal bin and external bulk tank and all associated site works at Kilbegnet, Creggs, 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, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Grasstec Ltd. Kilpatrick, Ballyclough, Mallow, Co. Cork. P: 353 (0) 2227610

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Marcus Morgan, intend to apply for permission for retention of a 5 bedroom dwelling house from any changes from the previously granted permissions listed on this site under planning reference 11682 and 11682A, along with permission for retention of domestic sheds, greenhouses, walled garden and boundary walls, situated on an established mature site located at Corriga, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town, F42 X018.

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 submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090) 6634421 Fax: (090) 6634423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Openplan Architectural Design wishes to apply to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Sonja and Thomas Connolly for planning permission to a) construct development access road incorporating an entrance/exit onto the public road, ancillary landscaping and footpaths along with connection to public services and sewers including all associated site development works and b) construct 4 no. detached dwelling houses and garages at Barrymore Townland, Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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. Signed: Openplan Architectural Design No. 1 South Terrace Basin Road, Tralee, Co. Kerry Email: info@openplan.ie Tel: 066-7185101 Web : www.openplan.ie

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 LIFE COACH

Mindset Life Coach Online

l Personal

Development/Life Coaching l Membership Club l Workshops l Retreats CONTACT

Emer Watchorn 087 7718842 website:

emerwatchorn lifecoach.com

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Classifieds TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812

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

TUITION

ROSCOMMON

MATHS GRINDS

Electrician Available

Spaces available for 3rd, 5th & 6th year students First Grind absolutely FREE

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

< TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011 < TURF PLOTS: In Donamon area, cut one week. Tel: 086 1654790 < TURF BANK TO LET: On Cartan Bog, Ballinameen. Tel: 086 1672981

SITUATIONS VACANT < LABOURER REQUIRED: For both domestic and commercial sites. Working 4 days a week. Good rate of pay. Safe Pass required. Clean driving licence a benefit. Call Mark 086 830 2183. < DRIVING INSTRUCTOR WANTED: For busy driving school based in Roscommon. Text your name and details to 0874164202 and we will return your call.

SHEDS

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

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

Plumbing & Maintenance

< MATHS GRINDS AVAILABLE: Experienced tutor. All levels. Call 085 7063536.

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

(All areas) < 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

USEFUL SERVICES

Contact Luke on

TRUCKS WANTED

Trucks wanted Daf CF75, CF85 Tractors units. Box body, Curtain sider, Cab & Chassie, Tipper 6 & 8 wheelers DAF XF 95 & 105 Tractor Units - up to 2012 Volvo FL6 18, FL7, FL 220 any body type, Box body, Tipper etc. Merc 814, SK 1824 Actros and bigger Old MAN Trucks Old Scania and Hino Tippers Mitsubishi Canter 7.5 Ton up to 2001 Toyota Hilux, Dyna, Nissan Cabstar up to 2005 Renault Trucks up to 1999 Renault Premium 6x2 up to 2013 Lexus GS300-350 Lexus RX petrol up to 2006 Nissan Micra up to 2003 Toyota Yaris, Corolla and Avenisis up to 2005 Any old truck considered BOUGHT FOR EXPORT AND RESALE

Tel. 087 1922154

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

P’Nuts Powerwashing Service • Driveways • Cobblestones • Slatted Sheds • Footpaths • Patios • Yards NOW DOING Drain Cleaning and Unblocking

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Call Padraig

086 602 7509

Tel: 087 0944027

Kilmore, Ballygar, Co. Galway (11th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 30th April 2010

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in county roscommon!

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

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

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

083 8838022

The local paper!

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal

FLYNN Leo

Phone JOHN

CARS

USEFUL SERVICES

FAMILYNOTICES ....

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

< AGRI SHEDS WASHED: Primed and painted, all work guaranteed. Phone: 086 8770711

< PERSON IN ROSCOMMON/LEITRIM AREA: Available to hang gates in farmyards also lawn mowing for small gardens. Phone: 086 3142302

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Sadly missed and always loved by wife Mary and family. Mass can be accessed on Saturday, 8th May 2021 via the internet on churchtvballygar.

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

FERGUSON Thomas (Tom) Glentaun, Creagh, Ballinasloe. Who passed away on May 7th 2020

As we remember Tom on his First Anniversary, Mary, Alan, Declan and Lynn, and the extended Ferguson family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all who sympathised with us during our sudden and sad loss with letters, Mass and sympathy cards, phone calls, texts and those that posted condolences on RIP. ie. Our gratitude to my wonderful neighbours who stood outside to welcome Tom home and attend his cortège on way to the Church. A big thank you to the Ambulance crews that attended him in his home and worked so hard under difficult conditions. We will be eternally grateful to the staff of ICU Portiuncula and Palliative Care team who showed such care and kindness to Tom and all the family during his final hours. Our sincere thanks to Fr. Bernie Costello who attended Tom in ICU and at home and for the lovely Funeral Mass he celebrated. Thanks to Marie Power for the music in the church. Special thanks to Norman Sinclair, Funeral Director for his professionalism and help with the arrangements. Please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our gratitude to you all for your help and prayers at this time. Tom’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 10am on Saturday, 8th May in St. Michael’s Church, Ballinasloe. Due to COVID restrictions this may be viewed online at www.churchservices.tv/ Ballinasloe

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

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES CORCORAN Benny Oran, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary) Died 27th April 2016

MANNION Carmel

CLABBY Bridie

Cartron, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. 15th Anniversary 1st May 2021

Circular Road, Roscommon (16th Anniversary)

HURLEY John and May Kilcroan, Ballymoe. (18th and 2nd Anniversaries) In loving memory of our parents John who passed away on May 10th, 2003 and May who passed away on April 21st, 2019.

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com We are sending a dove to Heaven with a parcel on its wings be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses wrapped up in a million hugs to say how much we miss you and to send you all our love. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

Sadly missed by his wife Anne, sons Mark, Mathew and Dermot, daughter Valerie and daughtersin-law Lucy and Lorraine; son-in-law Sam and grandchildren Aoife and Ben.

LOUGH Michael (Mickey) Clooncundra, Ballymurry, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 1st May, 2019 (2nd Anniversary)

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

Remembered with love by Kathleen and family.

In loving memory of Bridie who died on 4th May 2005 You can only have one mother, patient, kind and true, no other friend in all the world, will be the same to you. Sad are the hearts that loved you, silent tears that fall, living our lives without you, is the hardest part of all. You gave us years of happiness, then sorrow came with tears, you left us lovely memories, we will treasure through the years.

Hold her, O Jesus in Thine arms and let her henceforth be a messenger of love between our human hearts and Thee.

Fondly remembered by her family. Anniversary Mass will be held at a later date.

LOHAN Patrick F. Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway (4th Anniversary) Who died on 2nd May 2017

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

KELLY Larry Feevaghmore, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (24th Anniversary) Who died 30th April 1997

Along the road to yesterday, that leads us straight to you, are memories of happier days together we once knew. Though Heaven and Earth divide us we are never far apart, for you are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts.

Your life was love and labour, Your love for your family true, You did your best for all of us. We will always remember you. May he Rest In Peace

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 1st May at 7.30pm also on churchtv/ ballygar.ie and Radio 106.5 FM.

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. B.F.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER Sacred 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. G.H.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your daughters Maureen and Nonie, son-in-law, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass on Friday, 30th April at 7pm in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe and will be broadcast on Parish Radio 106.5 FM.

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

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

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

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

The local paper!

Loved and remembered always.

THANKSGIVINGS

Memory drifts to scenes long past, time rolls on, but memories last. Sunshine passes, shadows fall, loves rememberance outlasts all.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

S tephen H oare

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories

Telephone: 090 66 33026 WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

INSURANCE CLAIMS

INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE INSURANCE CLAIMS REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS CLAIMS REPAIR REPAIR LTD. LTD. Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 INSURANCE CLAIMS REPAIR LTD. CLAIMS REPAIR CLAIMS REPAIR LTD.LTD.

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

BRENDAN DOOLIN

New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

Chris’s Window Service

Lowest price guaranteed

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.

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

uPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS Repairs

Window and Door Replacement Double Glazing Units Replaced Maintenance Carried Out to Existing Windows and Doors

Gerry Martin: Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 BlockEstate, 12, Galway Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Bank of Ireland

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

WINDOW AND DOOR

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

Institute of Ireland

TEL: (090) 96 88606

086 6002721

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

to discuss your requirements

INSULATION

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR

• Approved Product Advisor • Member the PSAB-GI • •Approved Approved Product Product Advisor Advisor • • Member •Member Member ofofthe ofPSAB-GI theofPSAB-GI Approved Product Advisor the PSAB-GI • Approved Product Advisor • • •Member ofby thethe PSAB-GI • Approved Member the Insurance • Regulated byCentral the Central Insurance by Central • •Member Member ofofofthetheof Insurance Insurance Regulated •Regulated Regulated Central the •Member Product Advisor • thebyMember of the PSAB-GI Ring us from your car when you arrive for • Loss Loss Assessor Services Institute Ireland Bank Ireland Assessor Services Institute of Ireland • Regulated Bank of Ireland • Member of the Insurance the Central •Adjusting Loss • • Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Institute Institute ofofofIreland Ireland Bank Bank ofofIreland ofbyIreland • Member of the Insurance • Regulated by the Central collection of your order/appointment. • Loss Assessor Services Institute of Ireland Bank of Ireland

BLINDS

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel: 090 662 6898

APA-PL, LA APA-PL,CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LA EMERGENCY 091 380900 091 380900 091 091 380900 380900 087 2596055 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 THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR info@icr.ie THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING info@icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS www.icr.ie www.icr.ie www.icr.ie

Loss • Certified • • Certified DipDipinDip inLoss Loss • Certified Certified Dip ininLoss

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Martin Hibbitt

Adjusting Adjusting Dip in Loss Adjusting Adjusting DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE • •Certified Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting

Tel: 090

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY

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 Unit 12 Oranmore BusinessPark, Park,Oranmore, Oranmore,Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE Unit 12 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Galway | Mountbellew, Galway

WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

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

Email:

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

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

VETERINARY

Martin Hibbitt Martin Martin Hibbitt Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, APA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CIP, CDIP CDIP LACDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

www.roscommonwindows.ie

- CCTV Camera Inspection

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures l 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

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

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

RECYCLING

Keen Prices

086 2203335

Gmail: gerrymartin198@gmail.com

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Daily collection

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

6621220

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

DRILLING SERVICE

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Classifieds

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

APPOINTMENTS

Looking for a New Challenge? Are you a hands-on person? Can you use your 5 senses? • Taste – good quality product • Touch – shape different breads/cakes • Smell – get the aroma of freshly baked products • Sight – look at a job well done – baked products. • Hearing – hear the bell on the oven!! We are looking for a person to train as a baker. No experience required. Full time position – 6 a.m. start 5 days per week. Apply to:

Molloy’s Bakery, Abbeytown, Roscommon Email: info@molloysbakery.ie Telephone: 090 6625940

Administrative Assistant

(FULL-TIME ROLE) A busy office of an expanding company requires an Administrative Assistant to work with their existing team. The successful candidate must be professional, polite and attentive while also being accurate. They must be comfortable with computers, telephone and general office tasks and excel at both verbal and written commnication. Administrative Assistant responsibilities: l Data entry and report generation. l Deal with queries via telephone and email. l Maintain polite and professional communication via phone and email. Administrative Assistant requirements: l Excellent computer skills, fully proficient in Microsoft Office. l Fluent English speaker. l Prior administrative experience. l Attention to detail. l Working knowledge of GDPR. l Telesales experience would be an advantage. l Desire to be proactive and create a positive working experience

To apply please phone: 090 6630545 or email: info@arcadianpower.ie

Practice Nurse/RGN Practice Nurse/RGN required for busy G.P. Surgery in North Roscommon with immediate start. The role includes: phlebotomy, cervical smears, childhood vaccinations and all aspects of nursing in general practice. Previous G.P. experience is an advantage but not essential. Reply with C.V. to: manager.practice21@gmail.com Before Friday, 14th May.

EXPERIENCED HAIR STYLIST REQUIRED FOR BUSY SALON IN ROSCOMMON TOWN

• MUST BE QUALIFIED IN ALL ASPECTS OF HAIRDRESSING • EXCELLENT T&CS FOR SUITABLE CANDIDATE

PLEASE CONTACT BOX NO.: 2058 C/O ROSCOMMON PEOPLE, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON.

SEAN DOYLE & SONS (ROSCOMMON) LTD.,

Are continually expanding and now require

CARPENTER

For our busy Modern Workshop Candidates must be confident and able to work on own initiative and highly motivated. Experience required. To arrange your interview please contact 090-6626753

Shannon Lodge NURSING HOME

Rooskey, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon. N41 YE03 requires

EXPERIENCED

PART-TIME NIGHT STAFF NURSE & FULL-TIME CARE ASSISTANT Please forward CV with written references to the Director of Nursing. Or email: shannonlodgenh@gmail.com

CONSTRUCTION PLANTNeeds FITTER Solving Undercarriage We keep machine downtime to a minimum by carrying the largest stock of undercarriage parts in Ireland. We are the exclusive dealer Be a key member of our Kobelco team providing after Berco (Italy) andKobelco a range ofexcavator other OEM range. manufacturers. sales for support for the We are the exclusive dealer for Republic of Ireland and Northern IreOur success is based on the quality of the parts land.

and the service we provide.

RESPONSIBILITIES: This role is a front-line position movBe abetween key member our Tracks team sales and of undering ourofhead office in supporting Four Mile the House cuscarriagelocations parts to our broad base the of customers tomer throughout country.throughout Ireland. It involves all aspects of supporting the product range (mini – heavy line excavators) from pre-delivery to after POSITION: sales support.

SALES ENGINEER

ROLE: LearnYou all will about so that can SUPPORT: be undercarriage provided withparts a service van,you phone advise customerstools. on their stay on track. and diagnostic Youbest will options receivetoongoing training and support. Armed with this knowledge the role involves dealing with customer enquiries, identifying parts and solving their

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: We are looking for a qualiundercarriage fied fitter with needs. considerable experience of working with excavators. This person should have a proven track record You will be working in the Tracks team that consists of demonstrating their ability to meet the varying demands ofother this office role. and workshop members. You will liaise with

other members to organise jobs and deliveries.

SALARY: Negotiable

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:

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Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

Sports PEOPLE

Game on!

The Éire Óg U-15s made a long awaited return to training in Loughglynn on Tuesday evening. Pic: Mick McCormack

County’s underage players return to training < SEAMUS DUKE

Tens of thousands of children were back on training fields across the country from Monday last under the latest loosening of the Covid-19 restrictions. Clubs have been welcoming back all age groups from the youngest up to under-18s with hundreds of coaches looking after the players of all codes. The experience gained from dealing with the protocols associated with Covid last year has also proven a bonus as clubs begin to prepare for competitive

action later in the year. Roscommon footballer Cathal Cregg is the Connacht GAA Games Development Manager and he says that the return to training has been hugely positive and well received by coaches and players alike. “Most clubs are back since Monday night and our ‘Be Ready To Play’ programme has proven to be very useful to clubs and coaches. We want the kids to enjoy their training now that they are back and we want to guard against injuries because after long periods of inactivity

injuries are a factor. There are no matches yet but the focus will be on skills and other activities for the moment. “The fact that we had to deal with the Covid situation last year means that coaches and clubs are familiar with the rules and regulations and it is making things much easier,” he said. The Western Gaels man says that there is help available for all club coaches on the GAA website. “There is a ‘Be Ready To Return to Play’ section, and on that there are details of webinars

every second Tuesday which will be a big help to all concerned,” he concluded. Roscommon Gaels are one of the many clubs who have been looking after their underage players since Monday night. The club chairperson, Teresa Hession, says that there has been a great buzz since the big return to training. “All our age groups from U-7s upwards have been back training since Monday and that includes football, hurling, ladies football and camogie. We would be catering for two to three hun-

dred children every night in the pods of 15 and less,” she said. “The children are delighted to be back and we have plenty of room in Lisnamult for everyone. We have a very good system for the parents to leave their children to training and to collect them afterwards and that’s working very well within the regulations. We also have our Covid-19 officers in operation with every team and everything has been going really well”. Teresa concluded by saying that the lockdown period has

not resulted in a reduction in numbers. “If anything our membership has increased and there is a huge interest from the children and their parents in being involved with the club. “The only two sections of the underage club that have not returned yet are our Academy and our All Stars and we will welcome those back later in the summer when the vaccination programme is fully rolled out. But for the moment we are very happy to be back with our underage training,” she concluded.

GAA to consider seven subs for league games < SEAMUS DUKE

There may be as many as seven substitutions allowed in hurling and football league games when the season opens at the end of next week. The association is considering the change because of the short run-in that teams have had in terms of preparation and an associ-

ated increase in the possibility for injuries. Two double substitutions are also being considered in the second half to prevent teams running down the clock coming towards the end of games. The ‘water breaks’, which were introduced into competitive matches in 2020, will remain for the forthcoming league

season and will be reviewed prior to the start of the championships. The GAA at national level will meet this week to finalise details ahead of the start of the inter-county season on the weekend of May 8th and 9th. Meanwhile, the GAA has told county boards that they can expect to receive less in terms of grants to cover the costs

of preparing teams for the championships is 2021. Last year, each county board received in the region of €130,000 while Government funding to the GAA was €15 million. However, this year that funding could be reduced to as little as €100,000 per county. The Government has made no decision on funding for 2021.

Top billing for league opener!

Roscommon’s opening National Football League match against Dublin at Dr. Hyde Park will be shown live on TG4 from 1.45 pm on Sunday, May 16th.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

SportsPeople

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs RFC Report

Winner of €10,600 Creggs Lotto The Creggs Rugby Lotto of €10,600 has been won this week by Martina Mulry of Roscommon Town. Martina and Raymond’s son Lochlann plays rugby with the Creggs U-15’s. Martina is a PE Teacher in Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, and Raymond is a former Roscommon county hurler. Creggs RFC Treasurer Kieran Dowd congratulated Martina on her big win, and thanked

her and everyone who supports the weekly club Lotto. Rugby Re-opening The IRFU has announced that it anticipates a return to competitive structures will commence in August for all men’s and women’s adult teams, Under-20s, and youth teams. Next season’s School’s and Mini rugby will follow in early September.

However, this week sees the welcome return of Youth and Mini Rugby in Connacht to see out the season. The full list of Creggs squad training days and times is below. Mondays (7pm): Girls’ U-14s training, followed at 8 pm by Girls’ U-16s and U-18s. Tuesdays (7 pm): Boys U-14s training. Thursdays (7.30 pm): U-17s. Saturdays (12 pm): U-13s training. Day and time for U-15s TBC.

MINI Rugby returns on Saturday, May 1st. Covid health checks will be sent out on Clubforce apps in advance. Starting times as follows: U-6s, U-7s, U-8s and U-9s at 10 am; U-10s and U-11s at 10.15 am, and U-12s and Mini Girls at 10.30 am. The Community Walkway around the grounds in Creggs RFC is open to walkers. Please note bicycles and dogs/pets are not permitted on the walkway.

Horses for courses

Racing continues this evening over the jumps at the Punchestown Festival, tomorrow and ends on Saturday. Racing starts at 3.40 pm today and tomorrow and at 2.15 pm on Saturday. On Sunday, racing is on the flat at The Cleveragh in Sligo away at 2.15 pm. The Curragh and Down Royal share the stage on Bank Holiday Monday with flat racing on the Curragh at 1.30 pm and over the sticks at Down Royal at 1.40 pm. Coverage of Punchestown continues for the next three days on RTÉ Two. The cross-channel meeting at Newmarket this Saturday and Sunday there are four flat races being covered by ITV4 each day with one race at Goodwood and Thirsk on Saturday. TG4 cover six races from Sligo on Sunday.

Punchestown Review The opening Novice Handicap Hurdle in Punchestown on Tuesday

was won by 25/1 outsider Cousin Harry trained by Philip Rothwell and ridden by PJ O’Hanlon who beat Light Brigade and Great Bear by a neck and 3¼l. The first of the Grade 1 races, the Champion Novice Hurdle, was won by the odds-on favourite Echoes In Rain for the Mullins father and son team, Willie and Patrick from Colonel Mustard and Blue Lord by 3¼l and ¾l. Mullins made it two in the Grade B Handicap Hurdle with Jazzaway ridden by Conor McNamara winning by a shorthead and 1l from Call Me Lyreen and Jesse Evans. Only six ran in the Champion Chase with Mullins supplying three won with Chacun Pour Soi with Paul Townend making his return after injury beating Alloha and Nube Negra by 5½l and 19l. There were 22 runners in the Goffs Land Rover Bumper horses and again Mullins was on the mark with Adamantly Chosen ridden by Townend’s sister Jodie holding off Springwell Bay by ¾l with Carnfullock another 9l further back. The Grade 1 Novices Champion Chase which looked a match between Envoi Allen and Monkfish. Four ran, Franco De Port and Brian Cooper parted company three out when beaten, with Envoy Allen pulling up lame before two out leaving the Mullins trained mare Colreevy to beat Monkfish by 8l in the hands of Danny Mullins. Colreevy has been covered and now retires to the paddocks. The Fr. Breen Memorial Chase over the banks was won by outsider Singing Banjo ridden by Barry Walsh giving Philip Rothwell a double. The 11-Y-O won by ¾l and 9l from RP O’Keeffe’s Vital Island and Enda Bolger’s Saint

for WP Mullins and he was ridden by Paul Townend to bring him six clear of Rachael Blackmore in the jockeys’ championship. The Punchestown Gold Cup proved that fortune favours the brave as the supplemented Clan Des Obeaux gave Paul Nichols his third Punchestown Cup in the hands of Sam Twiston Davies after a ding dong battle with Al Boum Photo over the last three jumps. The English raider won by 1½l with Fakir D’oudairies another 17l away in third.

Point-to-Point News

Singing Banjo and Barry Walsh lead Vital Island over the double bank.

Benedict whose stablemate odds-on fav Youcannotbeserious took a spectacular fall at the old double bank. The finale had another Mullins in the winner’s enclosure as the Emmet Mullins owned and trained Crowns Major won the bumper with P Byrnes in the plate, from his uncle’s father and son team Willie and Patrick’s Hara Kiri with Black Bamboo third at 50/1. Not a bad start for WP with runners in six of the eight races and winning five and runnerup in the last. Yesterday, Wednesday’s racing opened with the final of the Adare Manor Opportunity Series and Simon Torrens won the race for the sponsor, JP McManus, with Guiri trained by Jessica Harrington. There was 4½l to Low Lie

PUNCHESTOWN PREVIEW Today starts with a 23-runner handicap hurdle and Rothwell’s Tuesday winner catches the eye if turning out again but a chance could betaken with Tony Mullins’ Rock Chica. Following on is a wide open handicap chase with 21 runners and at 5/1 the field best left alone. The longest race in the islands is the La Touche over the banks course and Enda Bolger may get compensation for the fall of Youcannotbeserious here on Tuesday with Stand Up And Fight with Derek O’Connor in the saddle. In the first of the three Grade 1 races, the Champion Stayers Hurdle there are three Cheltenham winners, Flooring Porter, Heaven Help Us and Mrs Milner but I like Denise Foster’s The Storyteller which finished a disappointing fifth to Flooring Porter in Prestbury Park. There are 25 runners and three reserves in the Grade B 3m Handicap Hurdle and it is wide open but Ted Walsh’s, JP McManus’ owned Pure Genius has been picked by Mark Walsh out of six entries. The second Grade 1 the Ryanair Novice Chase

by Tom Red

looks a penalty kick for Leopardstown Dublin Festival winner who gave Cheltenham a miss to keep the Mullins bandwagon rolling on. There are seven declared for the Listed Mares Novice Hurdle, the penultimate race, with Magic Daze, second to stablemate Telmesomethingirl in Cheltenham under Robbie Power, now has Rachel Backmore back in the saddle and she should beat this field. In the bumper, Mullins’ Dysart Dynamo, a winner at Clonmel may find one or two too good for him in this field with nine winners. Forged In Fire beat Ferny Hollow in 2019 before that horse went on to complete a treble including 2020 Cheltenham. Forged In Fire’s latest run shows signs of a return to form when third at Naas and could be the best value in the race.

Friday

There are seven declared in the opening Bishopcourt Cup for hunters with Peter Maher with

The Fields and another ¾l to Fortune Street. The Connolly’s Red Mills Auction series final was won by Peter Fahey’s 14/1 shot Surprise Packet ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe who beat Tom Mullins’ It Could Be You and Denise Foster’s Gevrey by 6l and ¾l. The Louis Fitzgerald Hotel Conditions Hurdle was won by Jessica Harrington’s with Robbie Power aboard from the Sean and Bernadine Mulryan owned Fastorslow trained by Martin Brassil and ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe with the 2/1 fav Decimation 3rd. The winning distances were 12l and 3½l. The first of the Grade 1 races the Irish Mirror Novice Hurdle went to Gallopin Des Champ, another winner

three of which Alpha Male with champion point to point rider Barry O’Neill on board. Sixteen run in the Grade A Handicap Chase where Asterion Forlonge, placed in Fairyhouse and in Cheltenham, might find his way into the winner’s enclosure here. There are eight declared for the Champion Hurdle including the unbeaten Honeysuckle, eleven runs, and she will not be beaten here and give de Bromhesd and Blackmore an English/ Irish double again. The Champion Novice Hurdle should go to Waterford as well with Bob Olinger odds-on. There are sixteen declared for the International Novice Hurdle with five from Closutton and Patrick Mullins opts to ride MC Muldoon with Paul Townend not riding. The hunter chase has 14 runners and the English challenger Caid De Berlais has run well on good ground. Most of the Irish runners seem to prefer at least a cut in the ground so take a chance with Sam Loxton’s raider. Itcametopass, Chelten-

Next weekend open cards have been advertised for Lisronagh in Tipperary on Saturday, Dromahane in Cork on Sunday and Dawstown on Bank Holiday Monday and entries taken. These are subject to sanction which is due today and is awaited as we go to press hopeful there will be a full return to racing in the fields this weekend.

Roscommon Returns The 2021 racing season in Roscommon kicks off on Tuesday, May 11th. Unfortunately, the same protocols are in place as last year, meaning racing will take place behind closed doors. In other news, at a recent board meeting of Roscommon Race Course CLG, Mr. Pat Rogers (Clooneyourish, Athleague, Co. Roscommon) was elected Chairman, following the retirement of Mr. Dick O’Brien, who served two terms as chairman.

ham 2020 Foxhunter winner for the O’Sullivans and Willie Mullins’ Billaway look the best of the home team.

Saturday

‘Shark’ Hanlon is pleased with Skyace, who steps out of novice company in the Coolmore Kew Gardens Irish EBF Mares Champion Hurdle at the festival on the final day. ‘Shark’ Hanlon’s bargain £600 for the Birdinthehand Syndicate hopes to add to her Grade 1 glory at Fairyhouse in open company. Saturday has three more Grade 1 races and the Guinness Grade A Handicap Chase. The first Grade 1 is the Daily Mirror Novice Hurdle with 24 entries. The Ladbrokes Gold Cup has 11 and the ITM Champion Bumper 17. The Grade A handicap chase has 52 entered. Irish Grand National winner Freewheelin Dylan could turn out again in the Pat Taaffe Handicap Chase at the season ending festival.

Roscommon People Friday 30 April 2021

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