30 August 2024 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

Luke Neilan, Sean Flynn and Darragh Kelly enjoying the Roscommon Races Family Fun Day last week. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Accident on Holidays

I recently returned from my summer holidays abroad and unfortunately I sustained a relatively serious injury at the apartment complex where I was staying. I cut my leg on a sharp tile in the swimming pool and I was hospitalised for a number of days. I booked my package holiday through a tour operator and whilst their representative was very helpful she did not offer me any advice regarding compensation for my injuries. Given that the incident occurred abroad am I obliged to issue legal proceedings abroad?

If you booked your holiday as a “package holiday” through a tour operator you may be able to make an injury compensation claim against the tour operator for your injuries and any related ﬁnancial losses.

A package holiday is deﬁned under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 (the “Act”) as a combination of two or more of the following, when sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price:- (i) transport; (ii) accommodation; (iii) other signiﬁcant elements of a tourist service nature.

Under the Act a tour operator may be held responsible for all of the services provided as part of a package holiday including holiday accommodation. Consequently, the tour operator may be liable if the accommodation fails to comply with the standards of health and safety in that country.

Legal proceedings may be brought before the Courts in the country where the injured party resides or where the incident occurred. Obviously, it is preferable to bring proceedings in one’s own country.

So… excitement abounds!

Huh?

All going well, we’ll be in Croker next year! But this time, it will be ﬁlled to capacity! A DAY FOR THE AGES!

With PAUL HEALY

Hold on, hold on… you Mystic Meg wannabe…

HUH?

I mean, you can’t say with CERTAINTY that we’ll be in Croke Park next year… Well, all going well!

But…

But, nothing! You and I are bound for Croker next summer… full house, unbridled excitement!

Look, all I’m saying is, nothing’s guaranteed…

IT IS GUARANTEED! We’re gonna be there to savour those gifted brothers…

The Smiths? The Murtaghs?

HUH?

I know we beat Tyrone and had an off-day against Armagh, but…

I’m talking about the Gallagher brothers! Noel and Liam! You and I are going to Croker next August for the big Oasis comeback! Put that in your diary! And start saving!

Oh, right! Hey, even better, why don’t we suggest to the Editor that we review the concert, or even interview the lads?

Great idea! All expenses paid, of course!

Thebarstoolboyos

Of course! I’ll work on applying for press passes… can you do me one favour? Go on…

Will you deal with the Editor on hotel prices?

(They pause to see if there are any more

WATCHING People

Back to school… and off to Croker? Endangered Species

developments in the GAA intercounty manager merry-go-round)

So, happy days!

Huh?

The kids are gone back to school!

Oh yeah… er, right?

New regime!

Huh?

A new regime for me, at home!

Okay…

An opportunity to make a fresh start!

After all, I generally drop the children off at about 8.40 am in the morning…

Yeah, I THINK I’m following you…

I’m up bright and early!

Got ya! The summer is over, such as it was! It’s time for discipline, for structure, for early mornings, for a fresh start, a new regime as you say!

Exactly! Especially on those mornings I’m off work, or working remotely. Indeed! So how will it pan out? Will you be going for a jog in the mornings? Mindfulness? Attending to long overlooked chores? How will you use the ‘early morning discipline’ in this positive new way?

Well, for starters, with a quiet house, I was thinking of putting my feet up and watching some TV in peace! That, or reading a book! Or taking up golf! Huh! Now I see what you mean by a new regime!

It’s been a GOOD week

for…

Local Leaving Certiﬁcate students, who were celebrating after the release of their exam results and receipt of CAO offers (well done to all who sat the Leaving Cert locally)

Oasis fans across the world, after Liam and Noel Gallagher ended a 16-year rift and announced a comeback tour of the UK and Ireland

Roscommon’s Fiona Tully, who won doubles gold at the World Handball Championships

Roscommon Town golfer Olivia Costello, who was a member of the Great Britain and Ireland team that won the Junior Vagliano Cup, defeating the Rest of Europe

Reality TV star and successful entrepreneur Spencer Matthews, who completed 30 marathons in 30 days across the Jordanian desert, setting a new world record while also raising funds for charity

It’s

been

a BAD week for…

A number of restaurants and other small businesses nationwide, this as a pattern of SME closures continued

Oran hurlers (well, certainly a disappointing one), who exited the Roscommon Senior Hurling Championship in dramatic fashion, opponents Athleague swooping with two late goals to claim the available semi-ﬁnal spot

PIC OF THE WEEK: A very cool Jackson Harding attended the Connacht/ Leinster Interpro game which was played in Creggs last Saturday. Leinster won 36-21. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Local Garda appointments

A number of local Garda appointments and allocations took place recently, following promotions and consequential transfers.

On the 19th of August, Superintendent Jason Miley was promoted to Roscommon Garda Station with responsibility for Roscommon Community Engagement Area (Garda Operating Model) in the Mayo/ Roscommon/Longford Division, and Superintendent

Barry Mills was promoted to Roscommon Garda Station with responsibility for Mayo/Roscommon/ Longford Performance Assurance Functional Area (Garda Operating Model) in the Mayo/ Roscommon/ Longford Garda Division. During July, the following appointments and allocations also took place: Superintendent Deirdre Gill was transferred to Claremorris Garda Sta-

tion with responsibility for Mayo South Community Engagement Area (Garda Operating Model), Mayo/ Roscommon/Longford Garda Division. Superintendent Michael Dorrigan was transferred to Longford Garda Station with responsibility for Longford Community Engagement Area (Garda Operating Model), Mayo/ Roscommon/Longford Garda Division. Superintendent Peter Conlon was promoted to Ballina Garda Station with responsibility for Mayo North Community Engagement Area (Garda Operating Model), Mayo/Roscommon/Longford Garda Division. And Superintendent Francis Finn was promoted to Castlerea Garda Station with responsibility for Mayo/ Roscommon/Longford Crime Functional (Garda Operating Model), Mayo/ Roscommon/Longford Garda Division.

Brendan rallies Rossies for support for Hospice services

Brendan Gleeson is encouraging people across Roscommon to get behind a €2.4m national fundraising drive for twenty-four Hospice and specialist palliative homecare providers that make up Together For Hospice, the National Hospice Movement.

The legendary actor is asking everyone to get brewing ahead of next month’s Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning for Hospice, which has raised €45.3m for frontline Hospice care since 1992.

This year’s event takes place on September 26th, but supporters can host or attend one on a date that suits them, with every cent raised locally going to their local Hospice.

Both of Gleeson’s parents spent their ﬁnal days in St Francis Hospice in Dublin, which is set to begin work on a new 24 single-room in-patient unit, at a cost of €29m.

The Oscar-nominated actor ofﬁcially launched the fundraiser on Wednesday, August 21st, in Bewley’s Café, Dublin.

“A great quote shared

with me years ago was ‘good health is a golden crown which only those who are ill can see’ – so the person who is sick is seeing how glorious it is. I try to keep an eye on the crown and as long as I’m motoring around alright… I appreciate life.

“So I am asking everyone in Roscommon on September 26th, or whenever suits them, to organise, support, or donate to a coffee morning, wherever it might be held”.

Martina Jennings (CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation) said, “We are delighted Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning for Hospice, one of Together For Hospice’s longest and most loved fundraisers, is now in its 32nd year of raising funds in support of Hospice in-patient and community services across Ireland.

“It is a chance to celebrate our coffee morning hosts, who give so selﬂessly of their time and energy in their local communities. This ongoing, unwavering support is invaluable and funds

vital services and quality initiatives, enhancing care for patients living with life-limiting illness”.

fee morning on Thursday, September 26th – or on a date that suits you – at hospicecoffeemorning. ie or call 0818 995 996.

If you cannot host or attend a coffee morning, you can make a donation at hospicecoffeemorning. ie/donate.

and Outdoor Market will take place on Sunday, 8th of September 2024 from 10-3 pm in Athleague Community Centre. For enquiries, call 087 9136692. All are welcome.

Ballinahgelish 5km fundraising Walk

There will be a 5k fundraising walk taking place on Sunday, September 8th, starting at 3 pm at McDermott’s Pub in Ballinaheglish. Proceeds will go towards the Community Centre and general upkeep of the village, and refreshments will be served afterwards in McDermott’s. The cost of entry is €10 per adult or €20 per family. Please support by coming along on the day or giving a donation.

Ballinaheglish Bingo

Bingo is back in Ballinaheglish on Friday, September 6th, at 8.30 pm. There is a jackpot of €560 up for grabs, so you won’t want to miss out! Your support, as always, would be greatly appreciated.

Convent of Mercy 50th anniversary reunion

A 50th anniversary school reunion for the students of the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon (1969-1974) will take place next month. The reunion of past pupils will take place on Saturday, September 21st, in Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Square, Roscommon Town at 5 pm, after a visit to the Convent school from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Roscommon Town ICA resumes Roscommon Town ICA Guild will return after the summer break on Tuesday, 3rd of September in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon (8 pm). The Guild always welcomes new members.

Actor Brendan Gleeson pictured with Martina Jennings (CEO, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation) at the launch of Bewley’s Big Co ee Morning for Hospice. Photo: Conor McCabe

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT LOSS PLAN RETURNS TO ROSCOMMON

UP TO 2 STONE IN 10 WEEKS

LOSE UP TO 2 STONE IN 10 WEEKS

Are you lacking energy? Are you craving sugar, feeling tired unmotivated, not tting into your clothes nding it hard to shift stubborn fat areas? Then System 10 is the weightloss program for you!

The TRUTH is there are 3 keys to a genuine weight loss (real fat loss) plan - diet, exercise and metabolism correction. All 3 keys interconnect, one will not work without the other. Your metabolism is the most powerful of all the 3 keys. It is the ‘switch’ that controls everything else.

In most people this ‘switch’ is off.

Metabolism problems like Slow Thyroid, Type 2 Diabetes, Sluggish Liver, Hormone Imbalances, PCOS, Endometriosis, Infertility and Digestive Problems like Constipation, IBS and Diverticulitis will limit or stop your weight loss, no matter how much dieting or exercise you do . Work on xing your metabolism problems for amazing results. Combine this with a reasonable diet and exercise and you will get the best, the fastest and the easiest weight loss ever.

Work on fixing your metabolism problems for amazing results. Combine this with a reasonable diet and exercise and you will get the best, the fastest and the easiest weight loss ever.

THE SYSTEM 10 PLAN INCLUDES:

• Nutritionist designed highly balanced food plans of normal, natural foods, no pills, bars or shakes.

THE SYSTEM 10 PLAN INCLUDES:

• An analysis of your metabolism

• An exercise plan (home - walk, jog or bike) or gym plan including toning.

• Nutritionist designed highly balanced food plans of normal, natural foods, no pills, bars or shakes.

• An exercise plan (home - walk, jog or bike) or gym plan including toning.

• Nutritional supplement recommendations to rapidly repair your system.

• Private weigh-ins, motivational tips and support throughout the programme.

• We can guarantee that every pound you lose is a pound of fat (you don’t lose water or muscle like most plans).

You will lose 2-3lbs every week and because our programme is designed to speed up your metabolism, you will keep the weight o when you nish your plan.

• We can guarantee that every pound you lose is a pound of fat (you don’t lose water or muscle like most plans). You will lose 2-3lbs every week and because our programme is designed to speed up your metabolism, you will keep the weight off when you finish your plan. Programmes available for men and women.

Programmes available for men and women.

WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY WEDNESDAY at The Hive, Dublin Road, Carrick-On-Shannon.

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY at The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Louise’s Beauty Studio celebrates 21 years in business

Louise Conneally-Dowd of the award-winning Louise’s Beauty Studio in Roscommon Town is delighted to be celebrating 21 years in business this year.

According to Louise, the time “has ﬂown by”. She told the Roscommon People: “There’s been lots of changes over the years, but I’ve kept up with the many new trends – as well as developing my online store, which has really helped grow the salon further”.

Reﬂecting on over two decades in business, Louise said, “I’ve been so lucky with my amazing suppliers too, something which has brought me to New York, Milan, London, and every part of Ireland for trainings over the years – with (hopefully) much more to come!”

She also touched on the everexpanding range of services and treatments on offer.

“Training in oncology aesthetics was great to add to the salon”, Louise said. “It’s a hard course, but nice to have for clients that need it; Louise’s Beauty Studio is one of the few salons in Ireland offering these treatments and a wide range of Repêchage products to oncology clients”.

As much as the services offered by the studio have developed over the years, Louise also commented that she maintains a passion for her more long-standing beauty services too, such as bridal treatments.

“I’ve covered every part of the county and went beyond doing bridal, but I still greatly enjoy

being a part of people’s very special day”.

In recent years, the salon has enjoyed a lot of success at national level, winning a number of awards.

“Earlier this year, we won Repêchage Ireland Beauty Therapist of the Year”, Louise said, with the studio having already been named Repêchage ‘Best Beauty Salon/Spa in Ireland’ in 2022.

“I’ve been so lucky and I’m so grateful to all my amazing clients, family, and friends and to the Roscommon People for all this support over the last 21 years”, Louise said. “All clients will be entered into a free draw in the salon next week as a thank you!”.

Louise’s Beauty Studio will

also have some more new treatments and products arriving to the salon in the months ahead,

and Instagram. To ﬁnd out more about Lou-

Pictured is Louise Conneally-Dowd of the award-winning Louise’s Beauty Studio in Roscommon, which is celebrating 21 years in business this year.

THURSDAY

A wee chat…

The gregarious Louth man sitting at the bar counter in the hotel in Westport tonight was mad for chat… that I could tell. So we had two pints in each other’s company, during which he gloried in the Wee County’s great season in the AllIreland SFC.

Mind you, when I lamented the fact that the All-Ireland series is over by July, he made it quite clear that his ﬁrst love is club football… and off he went on an entertaining overview of his local team’s distinguished past and present. For this man (and many more nationwide), the GAA season is only really starting now.

As a younger man, he had played (and won county medals) and in truth I wouldn’t have fancied receiving even a shoulder, much less a proper dig, from him in full flight. By the time we were finishing our second pint we had chatted about Bruce Springsteen’s concerts in Croke Park (he “wouldn’t cross the road to see Bruce”) and then randomly moved on to our mutual discomfort with flying. His, it turns out, has to do with feeling claustrophobic.

His claustrophobia also affects him in lifts/elevators. Perhaps it was brought on when a friend told him of being stuck in a lift in Liverpool with eleven other people. “The maximum capacity was eight people” my new friend said, “but twelve got into the elevator. Well, as luck would have it, it got stuck… and they were trapped together for an hour and a half. My worst nightmare!”

After an enjoyable hour – there is a certain pleasure in such ﬂeeting chats with a fellow sports’ fan – we headed our separate ways (I take it he took the stairs).

FRIDAY

Lift (off)…

So, meeting a man (previous item) who dreads conﬁned spaces, and

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie

for whom being trapped in a lift would be a nightmare – feelings which many people will identify with – had me thinking. Here then, is my hastily-compiled list of people I would not wish to get stuck in a lift for 90 minutes with… Humourless people; obsessive conspiracy theorists; excessively loud tourists; people on their way to or from hen/stag parties; Mattie McGrath and Danny Healy-Rae (together); senior members of the DUP returning from a think-in; the cast of Love Island; Michael Gove; Jedward; 2FM DJs going to a party; 2FM DJs coming from a party; anyone selling insurance policies (no offence); the 2 Johnnies; 1 Johnnie; Joe Brolly; Jennifer Zamparelli; Micheál Martin and Mary Lou McDonald in mid-argument; Alan Shearer; Dáithí and Kathryn if they were as exuberant as when presenting the Rose of Tralee; people who can effortlessly talk about themselves for 90 minutes; boxing judges from the

Olympics; Ronnie Whelan when in negative mode (no offence)… and Conor McGregor (list subject to change).

THURSDAY-MONDAY

Westport Quay review

We arrived in Westport Quay on Thursday for a short break/long weekend, ahead of the ‘return to school’. While we made the odd visit to Westport itself, ‘Westport Quay’ has its own delightful charm and beauty and is a destination we have long enjoyed.

There are lots of tourists around, buses of (mostly) Americans arriving on and off to the Westport Coast Hotel. Sunday was a horrendous day, with torrential rain sweeping across the port. Still, the visitors seemed to take it all in their (wet) stride.

A drive into the heart of the Killary Fijord on Friday reminded us of its stunning beauty. The scenery is

spectacular, surely on a par with any landscape one could encounter anywhere in the world.

Westport’s restaurants and bars were busy all weekend. We conﬁned ourselves to restaurants, bar an hour-long mandatory visit to Matt Molloy’s. In the famous pub, we met a convivial group of Connacht FAI ofﬁcials who had just attended the unveiling of new facilities at the Westport United grounds. One of the party we got chatting to is a Mayo native who has been living in the US for almost forty years. When we raised the upcoming presidential election, this gentleman acknowledged the momentum Kamala Harris has, but said he’ll be voting Trump “for the sake of the economy”.

Back in Westport Quay on Sunday evening, we had a lovely meal in the quaint Towers Bar and Restaurant. Nearby, ‘The Helm’ is a lively, attractive premises (bar, restaurant and accommodation) which was busy all weekend.

‘Tertulia’ (billed as ‘a bookshop like no other!’) is a charming, captivating bookstore which is well worth a visit. The ﬁne range of books are the reason you initially pop in, but there are nice touches such as cosy seating (so you can relax and read), coffee/tea service, a vinyl records section, and even a Harry Potter corner.

On Monday we drove to Achill, another place close to our hearts. As ever, the drive to Keem Beach is a wonderful experience, if slightly hair-rising at times! This has rightly been described as an ‘island gem’, a gorgeous, secluded, sheltered bay which is embraced by high cliffs. Truly stunning.

TUESDAY

Oasis in Roscommon

Today, most children returned to school after the summer holidays… so naturally, it’s the sunniest day for months.

I take a walk into our beautiful Loughnaneane Park. At the pond, the ducks take the sunshine and steady ﬂow of visitors in their stride.

Unless I’m mistaken, they appear indifferent to the strife around the world, the housing crisis, the cost of living, the climate change debate, or any of the multitude of micro issues that occupy the minds of their human admirers.

Even this morning’s news that Oasis are to launch a comeback appears not to have cost them a thought.

Instead, our feathered friends gracefully navigate their serene area of this precious amenity, some gathering in groups before occasionally breaking into elegant paddling forays into the heart of the pond.

This morning, a few opt for the shade in the bosom of the island feature, while others stand on rocks and savour the rare sunshine. An Oasis, one might say.

Loughnaneane Park can slow the world down for us, if we open ourselves to its wonders.

in Roscommon on Monday

Racing on the flat is set to return to Roscommon Racecourse next Monday, the 2nd of September, following the most recent fixture, which produced some fine performances – most notably from Joseph O’Brien’s Sigh No More in the Irish EBF Series Races.

While the filly came from last to first to win at Galway a few weeks ago, for a few strides at Roscommon, the well backed favourite looked beaten. But she found plenty in the straight to win in the hands of jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle, who said, “She was plenty green and raw there, and I do think that she’ll improve again for that. She loved the soft ground, and she is a filly on the up”.

The sponsor of that race, the Irish EBF, are one of the sponsors at Roscommon again next week.

The best performance of the night came from Sea Eagle, who revelled in the testing ground to credit both Ger O’Leary and Shane Foley with their second winner of the night in the Conor Cassidy Car Sales Handicap. The pair also won the opener with Come On The Lads.

Billy Lee rode a treble, and all three jockeys mentioned above will be in action next week – as will Champion Jockey Colin Keane, who drew a rare blank at Roscommon Racecourse the last day.

Despite some heavy rain before racing, the track held up very well and is in good shape heading into the last few ﬁxtures for 2024. It’s been a great year for Roscommon Racecourse so far, and if you haven’t made it to the track yet, be sure you don’t miss out – make the visit next week, or during any of the upcoming remaining features.

Roscommon Racecourse would like to extend a big thank you to all their loyal sponsors and patrons for their continued support. The best turned out prizes are sponsored by Casey Lawnmowers, Fuerty, Co Roscommon.

Ticket offers are available, so do log onto roscommonracecourse.ie to avail of these. Special admission prices are €10 for adults and €5 for OAPs and students.

A list of remaining ﬁxtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on roscommonracecourse.ie. You can also keep up to date with all the latest news and lots more by following Roscommon Racecourse’s regularly-updated social media channels on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram. For enquiries, email contact@roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288. Roscommon Racecourse: come for the racing, stay for the craic!

Avondale and jockey Seamie He ernan in the parade ring after

€11,500 at Roscommon Races last week. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Tom, Kathleen, Thomas and James Cleary presenting Barry Connell (winning trainer) with the prize after Avondale won The Sean Cleary Memorial Handicap of €11,500 at Roscommon Races last week. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993,

SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE

Roscommon County Council intends to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the period and the reason speci ed.

Road to be closed: L7043 The Square, Roscommon (Eight til Late to Post O ce)

ROAD WORKS SPEED LIMIT ORDER Road Tra c Act 2004, Section 10

Notice is hereby given, in accordance with Section 10 of the Road Tra c Act, 2004 that Roscommon County Council has made a Road Works Speed Limit Order to apply a Speed Limit as set out in the schedule below at the locations as set out in the schedule below.

Period of Closure: From: 9.00 pm on Friday 20th September 2024 to 6.00 am on Monday 23rd September 2024

Reason for Closures: To facilitate Global Rossie Weekend

Objections in respect of the proposed closure may be made in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department or e-mailed to roads@ roscommoncoco.ie to arrive not later than 5.00pm on Wednesday 4th September 2024.

Greg O’Donnell

Acting

Director of Services

There’s a Little Library Bag for every child starting school in 2024!

X = Easting

Y = Northing

Greg O’Donnell

O’Donnell

Acting

Director of Services Roads and Transportation

Pick up their FREE Little Library Book Bag at your local library.

To help children navigate starting school, libraries have put together a bag with a book, a wallet and their ﬁrst own library card!

The Little Library Bag is available in English or in Irish. Visit and join your local library.

More supports to help the transition to primary school are available at

The Road Works Speed Limit Order is to facilitate road improvement works and applies from 19th August 2024 to 18th August 2025. The Chief Executive shall have regard to any representations that are made to him in relation to this Road Works Speed Limit Order.

Tá Mála Leabhar Mo Leabharlann Bheag do gach leanbh atá ag tosú ar scoil in 2024!

Pioc suas Mála Leabhar Leabharlainne Beag SAOR IN AISCE dóibh i do leabharlann áitiúil.

Chun cabhrú le páistí atá ag tosú ar scoil, tá mála le leabhar, sparán agus a gcéad chárta leabharlainne féin curtha le chéile ag leabharlanna.

Tá an Mála Leabharlainne Beag ar fáil i mBéarla nó i nGaeilge. Tabhair cuairt ar do leabharlann áitiúil agus glac ballraíocht ann.

Tá tuilleadh tacaíochta chun cabhrú leis an aistriú go dtí an bhunscoil ar fáil ag

Life-sized statue of Fr Browne to be unveiled

 ALANNAH ITA HEALY

A life-sized memorial statue depicting beloved local priest Fr Raymond Browne, who passed away in November 2020 aged 92, is to be unveiled on Sunday, September 8th, in Fourmilehouse.

Fr Browne served the parish of Kilbride for 34 years (29 as parish priest and 5 as pastor-emeritus). Prior to his time in Kilbride, his ministry took him to a number of parishes, including Drumboylan and Roscommon town (for fourteen years each), and he also spent four years in Nigeria. He was immensely dedicated to his work, spending his retirement years continuing to exercise an active pastoral ministry.

Fr Browne’s memorial statue, which has been constructed from marble, was commissioned with County Roscommon-based company Feelystone. As Kilbride parish comprises both Fourmilehouse and Derrane, the decision was made to erect the statue in Fouremilehouse, within the vicinity of St Brigid’s Church, and to install new public seating in memory of Fr Browne in Derrane, close to Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

The ofﬁcial unveiling ceremony will be preceded by a special Mass at 12 noon, celebrated by the Bishop

A fresh start with a local leader –relaunch of Slimming World in Boyle!

Exciting news for the Boyle community – the Slimming World group is making a much-anticipated relaunch in the area on Tuesday, September 10th, at 7 pm in St Joseph’s Resource Centre.

This relaunch is set to offer local residents a fresh opportunity to embark on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle, guided by the inspiring story and experience of the group’s new consultant, Breanne.

Breanne Farrell, a Boyle local, knows ﬁrst-hand the challenges of managing weight – especially during difﬁcult times. Like many of us, she felt the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on her health.

As a frontline worker, Breanne found herself battling not just the demands of her job, but also the creeping ‘Covid pounds’ that many experienced during those trying times. Determined to take control of her wellbeing, and lose weight for her upcoming wedding, she joined Slimming World three years ago and embarked on a transformative journey.

Through dedication, support from her Slimming World group, and a commitment to the programme’s ﬂexible and sustainable approach, Breanne successfully lost over three stone. Even more impressively, she has maintained her weight loss since April 2023.

Her personal triumph inspired her to take on a new role within the Slimming World family, becoming a consultant to help others achieve their goals. Last September, she successfully relaunched the Strokestown Saturday morning group, which has seen remarkable success, with members collectively losing an incredible 140 stone so far this year!

Now Breanne is bringing her passion and expertise back to her home town, where she’s eager to help Boyle residents achieve similar success. Her own experience and career as a nurse makes her an empathetic and motivational leader, uniquely equipped to support members through the ups and downs of their weight loss journeys.

The relaunch of the Boyle Slimming World group comes at a crucial time. After the challenges of the past few years, many people are looking for ways to refocus on their health and wellness. Slimming World offers a proven approach that’s not just about losing weight, but about building healthier habits, gaining conﬁdence, and connecting with a supportive community.

The group’s weekly meetings will provide more than just a place to track progress; they’ll be a welcoming space where members can share their experiences, celebrate

victories, and ﬁnd encouragement when needed. Whether you’re new to Slimming World or returning after a break, Breanne and the group are ready to welcome you with open arms.

The relaunch event on Tuesday, September 10th, is the perfect opportunity to meet Breanne, hear her inspiring story, and learn more about how Slimming World can help you achieve your own health goals.

For more information on joining the Boyle Slimming World group, contact Breanne on 0860867377, or follow on Facebook (Slimming World with Breanne) or Instagram (@SlimmingWorldBreanne).

“Here’s to a new beginning and a healthier future for Boyle! See you all Tuesday at 7 pm”, says Breanne!

For details of the groups locally, please see the advertisement on right. Slimming World have offers for free membership at the moment. Please contact your local consultant for more information.

of Elphin, Kevin Doran. After Mass, Bishop Doran will bless the statue, along with the new public seating. Refreshments will be served in the community centre.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, Chairperson of the Fr Raymond Browne Memorial Committee, Timmy Donnelly, explained how the project started.

“When he passed away, it was a big hit to the community, but it was during Covid, so we decided not to celebrate his life at that time as we were having lockdowns”, he explained. “In the end, we decided to set up a committee of like-minded people to do something to honour him and all he did”.

Mr Donnelly outlined the enormous impact Fr Browne had on the area over the years: “When he ﬁrst came to the parish, the new school was being built and he got stuck in right away, helping out”.

“He got a lot done”, Chairperson Donnelly told the People, describing how Fr Browne oversaw the development of countless facilities, such as the local community centre, childcare centre, eight houses for the elderly, and a community building for the elderly, which is also used by the Alzheimer’s Society for day care.

The impact of these developments

is still felt strongly today: “That community centre must be the best used in Connacht!”, Chairperson Donnelly told the People Chairperson Donnelly also commended Fr Browne’s many other undertakings, such as organising group trips to visit shrines, and his dedication to developing a community that served its young people.

“He was an unreal man, a man of great vision”, Mr Donnelly explained. “He had a way of getting things done and he wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“He was a very good man, and very spiritual. He was so dedicated to helping his community, and he worked right until his last days. We’re looking forward to honouring him with this statue”.

The committee began a fundraising drive for the memorial statue last year, and are still accepting donations to ﬁnance all aspects of the project. Donations can be made online via iDonate (idonate.ie/fundraiser/FrRaymondBrowneMemorial), handed in to the local shop or church, or given directly to any of the committee members.

All are welcome to attend the upcoming unveiling in Fourmilehouse, to celebrate Fr Browne’s rich legacy and support the committee’s work in delivering this project.

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

slimming-friendlylasagne Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

TUESDAY

BOYLE

St Joseph’s Resource Centre 7pm Breanne 086 0867377– New Consultant

Slimming World with Breanne @SlimmingWorldBreanne

WEDNESDAY

CASTLEREA

O’Rourke GAA Centre 6:30pm Trish 087 8581325

Slimming World Castlerea @slimwithtrishcastlerea

ROSCOMMON

Gleesons Restaurant & Rooms 7:30am & 9:30am Pauline 087 1878701 – New Consultant

Slimming World Roscommon @slimmingworldroscommon

THURSDAY

Roscommon Hannon’s Hotel. 5:30pm & 7pm

Pauline 087 1878701 – New Consultant

Slimming World Roscommon @slimmingworldroscommon

SATURDAY

STROKESTOWN

Strokestown Sports and Community Centre 9:30am

Breanne 086 0867377

Slimming World with Breanne @SlimmingWorldBreanne

Slimming World consultant and Boyle native Breanne Farrell pictured before her weight loss transformation.

Slimming World consultant and Boyle native Breanne Farrell pictured after her weight loss transformation.

COMMUNITY MAN: The late Fr. Raymond Browne pictured at the o cial opening in March 2020 of the new astroturf pitch in Kilbride.

Hospice Coffee Morning appeal

Mayo/Roscommon Hospice are calling for people to host a co ee morning on National Co ee Morning for Hospice, sponsored by Bewleys, on Thursday, September 26th – or on another date if that suits you better.

You can host a co ee morning/evening with family, friends, or work colleagues, or you can have a Drive-By or takeaway co ees if you wish. Anything goes!

Please register for your free pack online at hospice.ie/ co ee. For more, email info@hospice.ie or call 094 9388666. Donations are also welcome online at hospice.ie.

Please support this important event, and help raise funds for vital hospice services in the area while enjoying a co ee and a chat.

Rahara Tidy Towns community night out!

Join Rahara Tidy Towns for a fun- lled night out for the entire Rahara community – taking place on Saturday, September 7th, at PJ’s Bar in Castlecoote. Enjoy delicious food by Nana Anne’s, which will be served at 8 pm, followed by live music from Celtic Crú. Everyone is welcome, but if you wish to secure your place on the bus, please contact Orla at 086 6036432.

Free course on becoming ‘A Healthy, Greener You’ Roscommon Women’s Network (RWN) are hosting a new, free course, aimed at helping participants achieve ‘A Healthy, Greener You’. Incorporating a little self-care, shopping tips, waste reduction tips, and information about minding our communities and our planet, this course will teach how small changes in our everyday routine can help ourselves and our communities be healthier and happier. This free, six-week course will be starting in midSeptember in Castlerea, and in October in Roscommon. Places are limited, so to book your place now, or to nd out more information, please contact RWN on 094 9621690, text 086 8099154, email info@rwn.ie, or message RWN’s Facebook page.

newsbriefs

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be holding church gate collections at the following churches over the coming weekends. A collections will be held at St Mary’s Church in Gortaganny on Saturday, August 31st. One will also be held on Sunday, September 1st, in Ballinlough at the Church of The Immaculate Conception, and in Granlahan at St Patrick’s Church. A collection will be held at St Patrick’s Church in Knockcroghery on Saturday, September 7th. Collections will be held in the Church of The Risen Christ in Kiltoom on both Saturday, September 7th, and Sunday, September 8th. Collections will also be held in the Church of Mary Immaculate in Rahara, St John’s Church in Lecarrow, and in St Brigid’s Church in Curraghaboy, on Sunday, September 8th. These collections are a great opportunity to raise muchneeded funds for animal welfare work and raise awareness of the RSPCA’s mission and vision. If you would like to learn more about the RSPCA, please visit roscommonspca. ie or call 087 0505594. Your support would be greatly appreciated. All donations will go directly towards animal welfare in the county.

Williamstown bus shelter delay

Senator Eugene Murphy has cast doubt on the level of commitment there is to prioritising a much-needed Williamstown bus shelter. He says the project does not seem to be a priority at present for the National Transport Agency (NTA) or Galway County Council.

Following correspondence with the National Transport Agency, the senator expressed concern that it will be some time before this project proceeds.

Senator Murphy welcomed the recent announcement about bus shelters throughout East Galway, but says he is very disappointed with the Williamstown situation.

“There are a number of people, including school students, catching buses there each day and they are entitled to have a bus shelter like any other community in the region”, he said.

“Unfortunately, weather conditions are deteriorating in this

country, and we cannot have people standing in the cold and wet at bus stops”, he added. “The NTA, in my view, are committed to putting the provision there –but I’m afraid it is being pushed down the line.

“If the bus stop point must change, let’s have a discussion and get it changed. If there are concerns about private properties close to the present bus stop, then let us deal with that issue also. It is not beyond

the people of the region to have a solution to this, and they should be asked for their opinions”. Senator Murphy said he would be writing to Junior Transport Minister James Lawless in the coming days to see if the matter can be rectiﬁed.

“I understand there are challenges in relation to the Williamstown bus stop shelter, but surely such matters can be solved without having years of a delay”, he concluded.

Pictured during the recent Roscommon SFC ﬁrst round match between Michael Glaveys and St Brigid’s in Ballinlough. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Council campaign showcases beneﬁts of life in Roscommon

Global Rossie Day to take place on September 22nd

Roscommon County Council have ofﬁcially launched a new campaign called ‘Roscommon Bound’, which showcases why Roscommon is the perfect county to live, work and visit.

The campaign explores why people should “choose Roscommon for a richer life”, focusing on key locations and towns where people can work, connect, explore, get involved and unwind. The aim is to encourage people to pick Roscommon as an anchor point for a successful career and a better quality of life.

Since the pandemic, opportunities for remote and hybrid working have opened up the possibility to move away from the capital city or larger urban areas, and work from locations where a work/life balance is achievable. In a survey conducted on behalf of the Council, over a quarter of Roscommon business owners said they offer hybrid working conditions to their staff, with 25% planning on continuing the hybrid approach for at least the next ﬁve years.

As part of the Roscommon Bound campaign, Global Rossie Day will take place on September 22nd – a celebration designed to encourage people living in Roscommon to become a tourist within their own county, as well as encouraging Rossies based elsewhere to engage with a celebration of their roots and all that makes Roscommon great! Over the autumn weekend, Roscommon will be brimming with activities, entertainment and captivating experiences which will give people a true sense of Roscommon.

Roscommon Bound has identiﬁed several key riches within the county, such as community, connectivity, tourism, wellness, economic development, heritage, culture, and sport. Across the thriving towns of Boyle, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Monksland, Roscommon Town and Strokestown, Roscommon County Council are working together to highlight the opportunities available in Roscommon and to attract new

members to the community – particularly families and business owners.

Roscommon Bound spokesperson for Roscommon County Council, Lisa Joy, commented on the launch: “Roscommon Bound is about connecting the global Rossie family to share and promote the uniqueness of Roscommon’s heritage, communities, towns and villages, and the opportunities that exist for people.

“Roscommon has a very strong sense of community, providing ample opportunities for people to connect with others, which plays a pivotal role in the quality of life that people can enjoy. There is a rich cultural eco-system throughout Roscommon with an array of festivals, creative arts and entertainment, and a host of diverse amenities lending itself well to supporting sports and other pastimes.

“Historical heritage also plays a signiﬁcant role in shaping the sense of richness of life in Roscommon, while connectivity can take on multiple meanings in terms of the ‘richer life’ that the county can provide… from high-speed connection to the outside world enabling successful careers on location or remotely, to the connection provided by the neighbourly communities and the connection with nature so easily accessible due to the wealth of outdoor activities available”.

For more information on Global Rossie Day, and the events taking place in various Roscommon locations, see roscommonbound.ie. Stay up to date by following Roscommon Bound on social media (@roscommonbound on Instagram and LinkedIn and @visitroscommon on Facebook).

Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council) and Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) pictured at the launch of Roscommon Bound.

Pictured are Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council) and Lisa Joy (Tourism O cer for Roscommon County Council).

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Closing time: what’s behind recent headlines about restaurant closures?

This week, a frank take on how we should deal with public disorder; Musings on recent restaurant closures; Weather woes; And a true tale with a sting in it…

In this age of everything wonderful (supposedly) about social media, and at a time when we can share everything we do with people we have never met and most likely never will –from what we eat for breakfast to even the most intimate details of our lives – I have to admit that I am still a newspaper man. Every week, to my wife’s horror, I bring approximately 10 or 12 papers into the house.

The big problem is getting rid of them. Even though they are still the best things for cleaning glass, I am continually told that there are papers

Crime and (lack of) punishment…

lying everywhere about the house, and to please gather them up and bin them. However, in my opinion newspapers are the best way to keep up with all the happenings in the world – from the latest in news and business, to entertainment and sport.

In the last week or so, for example, there have been numerous reports on the closure of restaurants all over the country. Three very well established businesses in Dublin – Ukiyo (20 years open), Brasserie Sixty6 (25 years open) and Rustic Stone (15 years open) – all of which are very prominent eating houses on the lucrative Dublin market, have all been forced to close their doors.

The high running costs – from spiralling prices on produce, to wage demands, rents, rates, and VAT – are all cited among the reasons for closure. But most worrying of all, among the reasons are the problems with anti-social behaviour in the inner city; some patrons are afraid to come into town after dark, and prefer to go to outer shopping centres.

As mentioned, one of the reasons given for the fall-off in the restaurant takings in Dublin was the effect anti-social behaviour had on the respective areas. This made me think about the huge difference between our reaction here in Ireland to the disturbances in Coolock on July 15th, and the reaction across the water after the July 29th knife attacks and subsequent disorder in Southport.

30 people were arrested here after the Coolock trouble, but at the time of writing none of them have been sentenced. 20 people have appeared before the courts, but all were released on bail and will appear before the courts again next month. 30 more who were arrested after the riots in Dublin on November 23rd are still awaiting sentencing, and Justice Minister Helen McEntee has given no timeframe as to when this will actually happen –although she does say they could face up to ten years in jail.

Contrast that to the zero tolerance attitude being shown to miscreants over in the UK, where trials were fast-tracked, extra prosecutors were deployed, extra court sittings were ordered, and 190 people have already been sentenced – with most of them going to prison.

It’s time our legislators came down hard on those who choose to disobey the law and carry out acts of thuggery and violence, and we should follow the UK’s example and make them realise such behaviour will not be tolerated.

So speed up the system, get them their trials, and send them off to jail to ponder the wisdom of their actions.

Lack of adequate policing on the streets is a huge concern to business owners and customers alike, and the public is voting with its feet. And so as a result, takings in these three restaurants were substantially down, and all of them have now ceased to trade.

Since last September, 577 restaurants and cafes have closed down, according to the Restaurants Association of Ireland. Politically, it seems that the decision in last year’s Budget to increase the VAT rate from 9% to 13.5% has been pretty disastrous. In fact, according to Adrian Cummins of the Restaurant Association of Ireland, the change in the VAT rate has been the major contributory factor. Along with the increase in January of the minimum wage by 12.4%, in his words – “the model is broken”. At this point, he believes the upcoming Budget is the most important ever, saying it’s last chance saloon for the hospitality sector.

With about one in ten people working in the hospitality industry in Ireland,

As I ﬁnish this week’s column, we are into the last week of August –and if ever there was proof we are experiencing climate change, one can say that this month has provided it.

Pitches that would normally be as dry as a bone are now waterlogged messes, with lots of them in a worse condition than you would expect to see in the depths of winter.

On Sunday, our local football pitch, which is in great nick, was called upon to host the quarterﬁnal of the senior hurling championship game between Oran and Athleague, because it was felt the excellent pitch in Ballyforan would not be able for two games in one day – they already had the other quarter-ﬁnal between the Gaels and

one would expect the Government to do something to halt all of these closures.

I am the ﬁrst to admit that I don’t eat out very often. The truth is that, in a lot of places, the prices are prohibitive. And as someone who used to visit Spain on a reasonably regular basis, I always wondered how they can produce top quality meals at a fraction of our prices.

One of the few programmes I watch on telly nowadays is The Hotel Inspector, where Alex Polizzi tries to help struggling hotels and guesthouses get back on their feet. Invariably she ﬁnds that restaurants have far too much stuff on their menus, and that they would be far better off with simpliﬁed, more basic menus.

Now I wrote all of the above on Saturday night, and as I continue with it on Sunday, I have (as it happens) just come back from having an unplanned Sunday lunch in Screene’s of Guilka, outside Moylough. I told you before of the great value, quality, and service

Rain check on August weather

Tremane earlier on Sunday. This was, of course, no reﬂection on the top class facilities in Ballyforan, but instead a sad indictment on all the rain that has fallen in the last few weeks.

I also attended a training session on a different pitch altogether on Sunday, and if I didn’t actually see it for myself I wouldn’t have believed how badly cut up it was after only a few minutes of training. Maybe I am looking at life through (old) rose-tinted glasses, but I seem to remember in my young days seeing my uncle Michael cutting acres and acres of corn in the latter part of August, and never having any trouble with the machinery getting bogged down. But if we brought a tractor or a harvester into the pitch

I was on last Sunday morning, I would say they might never surface again. Anyway, once again it proved that the provision of the 4G pitch at the rugby club in Creggs was an inspired decision. On Saturday, we hosted two big underage interprovincials between Leinster and Connacht, and as usual the visiting Leinster supporters were visibly shocked by the facilities they found in our little village. As I write this on Monday morning, the rain has just returned, and it looks like another wild, wet, and cold week to bring the month of August to a close. I can’t wait until January, when we might see some ﬁne weather, and wall-to-wall sunshine!

that Screene’s has to offer, but in truth it was more than a year since I had last visited it, and I am glad to report that nothing had changed; the place was packed, the food was both tasty and more than substantial, and the price was still extremely good. And as I studied the varied but uncomplicated menu, I wondered if some of our upper class eateries just lost the run of themselves? Are they having to charge exorbitant prices for stuff the ordinary Irish punter mightn’t want to eat in the ﬁrst place?

Some weeks ago, we dined in Regan’s in Roscommon, and it too had all the signs of a busy but affordable restaurant.

I hate to see any business close its doors – and undoubtedly the hospitality sector needs help from our Government – but at the same time, places like Regan’s and Screene’s and many more can continue to offer great value, great food, and pleasant surroundings – and still keep their doors open. Maybe there’s a lesson there somewhere!

And ﬁnally…

You may recall me writing about a time a couple of summers ago when I had two nests of wasps in the hedge at the front of the house, and had to call on the services of Alan O’Keeffe of AOK Pest Control to get rid of them.

Well today I read in the paper about the horriﬁc experience Welshman Andrew Powell had last Sunday at the hands (not sure if that’s the right word) of hundreds of wasps. He had just returned from a bike ride when the wasps swarmed on top of him, and by the time they were ﬁnished he had been stung 240 times. His wife described his back as being “a carpet of wasps”.

Andrew said that he kept going in and out of consciousness and credited his local hospital’s minor injuries unit for saving his life. I presume Roscommon Hospital has a similar unit, but either way, if you do have a nest of wasps anywhere around you, don’t try to get rid of them yourself – call the experts.

GRADUATED FROM UNIVERSITY OF GALWAY…

Kerrane slams

‘annual school bus ﬁasco’

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has accused the Government of purposely ignoring the “crisis” in school transport which she says is leaving parents under severe pressure.

owned and in the heart of the community!

Deputy Kerrane said, “Once again this summer, we have the annual school transport ﬁasco where children and teenagers have no seat on the school bus and parents are up the walls with stress and worry of how they will get their child(ren) to and from school.

some cases for years, who have no seat this year.

“This is (happening) every single year and it’s gone beyond a joke. We have children who previously had a seat on the bus, in

“I have heard from parents who are at their wits’ end trying to ﬁgure out who can take mornings off work to get their children to school or whether they can remain at work at all. This is ridiculous”.

Deputy Kerrane said that back in 2021, Sinn Féin presented the Government with a comprehensive and costed plan on how to build capacity in school transport.

She now accuses the Government of hiding behind a review that concluded two years ago while failing to act in the meantime.

“It is not rocket science; Bus Éireann need to be funded to allow them to increase capacity. After that, the actual recommendations of the review to overhaul the system need to be implemented. There is no excuse for this ﬁasco”, she concluded.

Ciara Kilker (Belmullet, Co Mayo), Amee Marron (Ennis, Co Clare), Katie Birch (Strokestown, Co Roscommon), and Lisa Shannon (Elphin, Co Roscommon) pictured after their recent graduation from University of Galway with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree. Pic: Aengus McMahon

David Leddy (Cavan), Kellie Fahy (Loughrea, Co Galway) and Noel GuckianNewell (Boyle, Co. Roscommon) pictured following their recent graduation from University of Galway with an Honours Bachelor of Arts (English & Media Studies). Pic: Aengus McMahon

Patrick Maher from Sligo (Bachelor of Law) and Emmet Burke from Roscommon (Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting – Global Experience)) pictured after their recent graduation from University of Galway. Pic: Aengus McMahon

45th annual Elphin Agricultural Show takes place this Saturday

Final preparations are being completed for this year’s 45th annual Elphin Agricultural Show, which will be held this Saturday, August 31st, at the mart premises and surrounding ﬁelds.

With €40,000 in prizes up for grabs, this year’s event promises to be as exciting as ever, with a variety of new classes having been introduced for 2024.

As ever, there is a host of exciting animal classes in store – such as cattle, sheep, goat, dog, poultry, horse, pony, and donkey classes. And with the introduction of extra classes and the top prizes on offer, there is sure to be a lot of interest in animal sections at this year’s show.

There will also be classes for farm and garden produce, cooking, handmade crafts, art, and photography. In addition to this, the junior section will allow younger participants to compete across a range of different categories, including general art and writing classes as well as wooden spoon, decorated egg/ vegetables/stone, edible necklace, pebble art, and crazy hat classes.

And the fun doesn’t stop there;

other attractions at this year’s show include Gerald Butler’s jive lessons and competitions, trade stands, free kids entertainment, and the long list of competitions for Bonny Baby, Elphin Little Miss and Master, Parent and Child look-a-like, Miss

Teen, Glamorous Granny, and Most Appropriately Dressed Lady and Gentleman.

There is sure to be something for everyone at this year’s 45th Annual Elphin Agricultural Show, so don’t miss out on this exciting event!

For more information about Elphin Agricultural Show and all the various classes in store, visit elphinshow.com. You can also keep up to date with the latest news by following the show on Facebook and X (Twitter).

Chairperson thanks sponsors, committee, and public for their support

The 45th annual Elphin Agricultural Show was launched recently in An Bothar Rua, and was attended by a number of local elected representatives, representatives from cattle breed societies, show sponsors and committee members, as well as members of the general public.

“We hope we have something of interest for everyone, young and old, to make it a great family day out”, he said.

He also paid thanks to “all the sponsors of the

Speaking at the launch, Show Chairperson Tommy Gormley highlighting the addition of “several new classes” to this year’s show, describing the 2024 programme as “wide and varied”.

show”, as well as “the hard-working committee, stewards and manager of Elphin Mart”.

“We would also like to acknowledge a grant from the Department of Social Protection and Rural and Community Development under Heather Humphreys TD, administered through the Irish Shows Association to the value of €8,350”, he added.

“We look forward to a ﬁne day for Elphin’s 45th Annual Show”, Chairperson Gormley commented. “We hope this show will be as successful as previous years and that the weather is good.

“I hope everyone who attends will have an enjoyable day, as you will receive a céad mile fáilte.

Many thanks for your support!”, he concluded.

Scenes from Elphin Show last year

lly foal by Rathkeery Paddy. Pic: Elphin Show Facebook

Amanda, Grace, Naomi and Chloe Scanlon pictured at Elphin Show in 2022.

Best

Main

off Elphin Show!

After a busy day of classes and competitions, the 45th annual Elphin Agricultural Show – taking place this Saturday, August 31st – will culminate with a show dance and monster rafﬂe in An Bothar Rua. Featuring live music by Celtic Cru, this free show dance will be the perfect way to wrap proceedings up on a really high note, with dancing from 9.30 pm until late.

Additionally, this event will also see the eagerly-anticipated monster rafﬂe being held. With over €2,000 in prizes up for grabs, the lucky winners will be in with the chance of getting their hands on some amazing prizes – including large cash sums, a stay at Kilronan Castle, and even a weanling heifer!

Rafﬂe tickets cost €10 each or three for €20, so don’t miss out on the chance to take home a great prize on Saturday evening, while enjoying Elphin Show’s free show dance event at An Bothar Rua.

Scenes from Elphin Show last year. Pic: Elphin Show Facebook

FarmingPeople

Thursday

Monday

Thursday

Monday 30th September:

There were bigger numbers of stock presented for sale last Thursday (August 22nd) due to the recent adverse weather and ground conditions. Prices and trade for quality store cattle remain rm, but plainer low weight stock tend to be a little harder sold just now. The bullock ring witnessed the top quality stores exceed €4 a kilo, with heavier lots making up to €2060. The heifer ring achieved €3.47 a kilo for the top quality store heifers, with heavier lots making up to €2100. Dry cows peaked at €2180, and cows with calves at foot made up to €2610. The runner ring witnessed an increase in numbers presented, with a variance in price depending on quality.

Bullocks, sample prices: Lmx 445kgs €1820, Lm 445kgs €1810, Ch 480kgs €1490, Lm 500kgs €1560, AA 545kgs €1580, Ch 575kgs €1800, Ch 550kgs €1780, AA 600kgs €1890, Ch 620kgs €1890, Ch 690kgs €2060, Sim 655kgs €1960, and Sax 665kgs €1700.

Heifers, sample prices: Chx 395kgs €1350, Ch 415kgs €1330, Lm 395kgs €1320, Lmx 480kgs €1670, Lmx 474kgs €1480, Ch 435kgs €1440, and Ch 690kgs €2100.

Cattle: There was a large entry of stock on o er at last Friday’s special sale of bullocks on Friday, August 23rd

Bullocks fetched an average of €2.97 per kilo up to €3.63 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.45 per kilo up to €3.04 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.45 per kilo up to €3.04 per kilo. Sample prices: LMX -605KG -€1840 -€3.04 per kg, BA- 720KG- €2080€2.89 per kg, LM -550KG- €1540- €2.80 per kg, BBX -705KG -€2080- €2.95 per kg, HEX-805KG€1720- €2.14 per kg, and SIX-570KG -€1470€2.58 per kg.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €2.97 per kilo up to €3.63 per kilo. Sample prices:

CHX-705KG- €2490- €3.53 per kg, CHX- 645KG€2340 - €3.63 per kg, two CHX-625KG- €2250€3.60 per kg, AAX- 785KG- €2290- €2.92 per kg, AAX- 675KG- €2070- €3.07 per kg, PTX -635KG - €2090-€3.29 per kg, CHX- 585KG- €2030- €3.47 per kg, LMX- 680KG- €2190- €3.22 per kg, and LM- 625KG- €2080- €3.33 per kg.

Weanlings There was a smaller entry of quality weanlings on o er at our sale on Tuesday, August 27th, with a strong trade for bulls. Our next sale takes place Tuesday, September 20th. Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.33 per kilo up to €4.66 per kilo, and heifer Weanlings made from an average of €2.93 per kilo up to €3.55.

Dry cows, sample prices: Lmx 800kgs €2180, Ch 780kgs €2170, Lmx 720kgs €2060, BBx 710kgs €2040, Fr 450kgs €600, Lmx 770kgs €2060, AAx 705kgs €1760, and Her 675kgs €1590.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1320 to €2610 for a Limousin cow and her BB bull calf at foot. Springers made from €1600 to €2050. In terms of calves/runners, lots made from €150 to €810.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Lmx 290kgs €1000, Lm 270kgs €970, AAx 290kgs €930, Lm 255kgs €840, Ch 435kgs €1300, Lm 405kgs €1270, Lm 350kgs €1120, and BBx 370kgs €1100.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 390kgs €1450, BBx 370kgs €1200, Lm 325kgs €1100, Ch 255kgs €790, Ch 280kgs €800, and Shx 350kgs €920.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart every Thursday, with the weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am with three rings in operation.

Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €3.33 per kilo up to €4.66 per kilo. Sample prices: BBX- 380KG -€1,700 -€4.66 per kg, CHX- 405KG- €1,760- €4.35 per kg, CHX-475 KG- €1,650 -€3.47 per kg, CHX -510 KG- €1,600€3.14 per kg, CHX -380 KG- €1,350 -€3.55 per kg, LMX -350 KG -€1,210 -€3.46 per kg, SIX- 395KG -€1,180 -€2.99 per kg, and CHX-300KG-€1020€3.40 per kg.

Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €2.93 per kilo up to €3.55 per kilo. Sample prices: LMX-505KG -€1,610- €3.19 per kg, LMX -485KG-€1,500-€3.09 per kg, LMX-405KG€1350-€3.33 per kg, CHX- 360KG- €1110- €3.08 per kg, CHX- 305KG- €1030 -€3.38 per kg, and BBX- 285KG- €1000- 3.51 per kg

Sheep

We had a large number of sheep on o er at our show & sale of lambs on Wednesday, August 28th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €188 while stag ewes topped out at €200. Our next sheep sale is on Wednesday, September 4th. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live. com.

Spring lambs, sample prices: 54.5kgs -€188- €3.45 per kg, 53.5kgs -€184- €3.44 per kg, 50.4kgs- €170-€3.37 per kg, 47.2kgs -€180- €3.81 per kg, 45.3kgs- €165- €3.64 per kg, 44.1kgs -€180- €4.08 per kg, 41.7kgs-€162€3.88 per kg, 40.9kgs-€147 -€3.59 per kg, and 38.8kgs - €140- €3.61 per kg.

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

(Proudly

Pictured participating in the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show.

Volunteer stewards Emmanuel and PJ pictured on duty at the recent Roscommon Show. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Organisers ‘overwhelmed’ by success of Roscommon’s ﬁrst Pride

Local authority proud to support Roscommon Pride

In a press statement, Roscommon County Council said it was proud to support Roscommon’s inaugural Pride March.

Speaking following the weekend’s events, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan paid tribute to the event organisers, who he said had delivered a varied, insightful, and enjoyable programme.

“Roscommon County Council was delighted to support last weekend’s Pride Festival”, he commented. “Through the work of our Community Department, we strongly support inclusiveness and diversity in our communities, which in turn enhances and inspires a society for everyone to share in. That support is varied and multi-faceted, empowering all citizens to fulﬁl their potential.

“Supporting all of our communities is at the heart of what we do in Roscommon County Council. Our ambition as a local authority is to ensure the county is a great place to live, work, visit and enjoy – all of our citizens have a role in making this a reality”.

Organisers of the inaugural Roscommon Pride celebrations say last weekend’s series of events were a great success.

Roscommon-based LGBTQ+ activist and Roscommon Pride March Grand Marshal Will Keane told the Roscommon People that he and the entire organising team behind Roscommon Pride were “overwhelmed” by the level of support shown.

“It was amazing”, he commented.

“I’d prepared myself to have to march alone if no one turned up, but when I saw about 300 people turn out on the day… overwhelmed is the word”.

“It was such a positive event in so many ways”, he continued, noting that in addition to the supportive atmosphere, the celebrations served to show off all the local area has to offer. “Roscommon looked amazing – some of the drone shots with the ﬂag (as the march travelled through town) were brilliant”.

Will also touched on the signiﬁcance of this event for Roscommon’s LGBTQ+ community – including those who have moved away.

“I got talking to so many people who said they had essentially emi-

grated (from Roscommon) to be gay, and that it was just so heart-warming to see this kind of event happening in Roscommon”, he explained, highlighting the “sense of validation” the celebrations were able to achieve for the community.

Friday’s Drag Bingo had attracted a full house – setting the tone for the rest of the weekend. On Saturday, activist Philippa Ryder hosted an engaging panel discussion on LGBTQ+ resistance, followed by the inaugural Roscommon Pride March, which saw the streets ﬁll with colour as the procession journeyed through town towards Loughnaneane Park for the Family Fun Day. The day ﬁnished with a ‘Pride Party’ in the Coachman’s Inn, featuring performances by The HAUS of KWÉN. Sunday’s Colour Run in aid of Roscommon’s LGBTQ+ Youth Group was followed by a ‘Pride Comedown Party’ at Gleeson’s Townhouse. The festivities wrapped up with a free screening of LGBTQ+ movies in Boyle.

Will conﬁrmed to the Roscommon People that the organisers intend to make Roscommon Pride an annual event: “We’ll see everyone back on the streets of Roscommon in 2025!”

Representatives from Creggs Rugby Club pictured at Loughnaneane Park on Saturday for Roscommon Pride’s Family Fun Day.

Roscommon’s inaugural Pride March took o from the Quad Centre before travelling through town on Saturday. Pictured on Saturday were Darragh Kelly, Roscommon County Council; Sheila Coyle (Social Inclusion O cer, Roscommon County Council) and Roscommon Pride March Grand Marshal Will Keane.

Attendees at the Family Fun Day element of Roscommon Pride events last weekend included (left to right) Sheila Coyle (Social Inclusion O cer, Roscommon County Council), Cllr John Keogh and MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan.

Photo: Emma Healy

Pictured are attendees at the Family Fun Day element of Roscommon Pride events last weekend. Picture: Emma Healy.

The Roscommon Pride March makes its way up Abbey Street last Saturday. Photo: Emma Healy

The Roscommon Pride March makes its way up Main Street on Saturday. Photo: Emma Healy

New competition unveiled by LEO

A new competition, ‘Startup Launchpad’ has been initiated by Roscommon’s Local Enterprise Ofﬁce (LEO) to celebrate the outstanding achievements of start-up businesses in the county, marking ten years of the Local Enterprise Ofﬁce supporting entrepreneurs.

The competition is open to all Roscommon-based businesses who have started in the last year and to all Roscommon residents who are planning to start a new business or have a business idea that they want to explore.

‘Startup Launchpad’ will run across two categories, namely Best Business Idea and Best Start-Up with cash prizes on offer for the winners in each category.

Twenty applicants will be invited to attend a free, intensive one-day Bootcamp in October to help them develop their ideas and businesses and to receive brilliant business advice and practical support on making their business plan a reality.

The application process is quick, free and simple. The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, Sep-

tember 20th. To apply, visit www.localenterprise. ie/roscommon

For further information, contact the Local Enterprise Ofﬁce team to speak to a team member on 09066 26263 or email localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie and the LEO ofﬁce team will be happy to assist.

Commenting, Enda Cannon of Local Enterprise Ofﬁce Roscommon remarked: “If you are a new start-up, are planning to start a business or are just at the idea stage, no matter how early, this is an amazing opportunity to access

the full range of Local Enterprise Ofﬁce supports and even win cash prizes”.

Speaking at the launch, Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Ofﬁce Roscommon said: “We are so proud of our talented, creative and innovative entrepreneurs in Roscommon and Startup Launchpad is the perfect way to acknowledge and celebrate these innovators, as they are vital to the future of our economy”.

Digital Summit at Croke Park in early September

Digital Business Ireland, a representative body for digital and online businesses, has announced that tech start-up, Great Visitor Experiences, will receive a complimentary expo stand at the Digital Summit as part of the organisation’s Digital First initiative.

The Digital Summit takes place on September 5th at iconic sporting venue, Croke Park, where up to 1000 SMEs are expected to attend. Featuring sessions from global industry leaders and experts such as luxury retailers, the Chanel Group, Guerlain, Puig and Trustpilot, Meta, Google and many more, the expo area will be replete with cuttingedge digital suppliers.

Great Visitor Experiences (GVE) will now join some of the global brands who will be showcasing their cuttingedge digital tools, strategies and supports. The company will also beneﬁt from one-to-one mentoring with a digital leader.

The 2024 Digital-ﬁrst initiative is the second time DBI has rewarded an emerging digital company, that operates only online and without a bricks-and-mortar premises.

Great Visitor Experiences (GVE) is an award-winning tourism tech start-up. The company’s solution is a sophisticated AI Travel Itinerary that integrates with a Destination Management Organisation (DMO) website to offer real-time, personalised travel plans.

‘Creative Heartlands’ is national winner in European Enterprise Promotion Awards

A regional project called ‘Creative Heartlands’ has been selected as the national winner for the prestigious European Enterprise Promotion Awards and will now go forward as the Irish entry to the European jury. The award recognises investment in entrepreneurial skills and comes four years after the Creative Heartlands began operating in Leitrim, Sligo, and Roscommon to support and sustain creative enterprises –particularly in the ﬁlm and design sectors.

Leitrim County Council established the Creative Heartlands in 2020 as a unique collaboration between the Arts and Local Enterprise

Ofﬁces of the Local Authorities in Leitrim, Sligo, and Roscommon and the Leitrim Design House.

In 2021, the project successfully secured funding from Enterprise Ireland under the Regional Enterprise Development Fund and what followed was a suite of supports rolled out to the creative enterprises across the three counties.

Joe Lowe (Head of Enterprise, Leitrim County Council) said,

“This region has one of the highest proportion of people working in the creative sector nationwide.

“The vast majority are small businesses, but they provide signiﬁcant employment in our region. To en-

sure sustainability, we must put in place the infrastructure and supports to enable the sectors’ growth”.

Also speaking about the award, Rhona McGrath (Arts Ofﬁcer with Roscommon County Council) said, “Being chosen as the national winner for the European award underscores the achievements made so far through the Creative Heartlands initiative.

“This recognition showcases the project’s signiﬁcant impact and positions it among the leading efforts in Europe dedicated to sustaining and supporting SMEs. We are honoured by this selection and are eager to continue our

work within the creative sector”.

Jeremey Cullen (Roscommon Local Enterprise Ofﬁce) added: “The prize not only recognises the contributions of our partners and funders, but also celebrates the creative enterprises themselves.

“Since the project’s inception, we’ve experienced remarkable engagement and commitment from the sector, and this award is a testament to their efforts as well”. Creative Heartlands will now go forward for consideration for the Grand Jury Prize for the European Award. The shortlist is expected to be announced in late September, with the ﬁnal in November.

Record number of applicants for Businesswoman of Year Awards 2024

Network Ireland says it has received the highest ever number of applications for its renowned Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which recognise the achievements of accomplished and committed female professionals.

The women’s business group received almost 460 applications from members across its branches, highlighting female-led entrepreneurship ﬁgures around the country.

The winners from seventeen local branch ﬁnals will go forward to a national level round, where a panel of business experts select the winners in the eight categories. The successful businesswomen will be announced at a gala awards ceremony at Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny, on Friday, September 27th

The event coincides with the Network Ireland national conference, which affords attendees networking opportunities, interactive sessions and focused masterclasses. The ﬂagship event will include a range of inspirational speakers on topics such as empowering growth, leadership agility and unlocking success strategies.

The conference this year is focusing on the talented businesswomen amongst the network. Speakers on the day will represent their local branch, showcasing the diverse range of expertise amongst the organisation.

For more, visit networkireland.ie.

Pictured is Creative Heartlands design manager Stuart Lawn.

Pictured are members of the Creative Heartlands project team –Stuart Lawn, Becky Farrell, and Johnny Gogan.

Enda Cannon of Local Enterprise O ce Roscommon

Ciara Ryan (AIB), Linda Codoul (Network Ireland President), and Anna-Marie Turley (Enterprise Ireland), pictured at the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny for the launch of Network Ireland’s Annual Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards. Pic: Patrick Browne.

NewsPeople

newsbriefs

Day of Retreat in Curraghboy

A Day of Retreat/Spiritual Renewal and Healing will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre in Curraghboy, Athlone (N37W704), on Saturday, September 7th.

Commencing at 10 am and concluding at 5 pm, the event will be led by Fr Oisín Martin of the Friars of the Renewal in Limerick.

Confessions will be available from 10 am to 1 pm and Holy Mass will commence in the afternoon.

As this is a one-day retreat, please bring a packed lunch. Teas and coffee will be provided.

All are most welcome to attend.

If you have any enquiries, please contact 086 4054489.

Kilcroan Cemetery

Mass: a thank you

A big thanks to everyone who attended our annual cemetery Mass in Kilcroan on Sunday. We were truly blessed by a lovely sunny day. Thank you to Fr Pat, Fr Julian, and Fr Benny for the lovely Mass, and to our sacristan Kathleen for preparing the altar. Thanks to Des Joyce for the sound and Pat McDonagh for the canopy.

Thanks also to everyone for their generous donations toward the upkeep of the cemetery – it is greatly appreciated.

We got great compliments on the appearance of the cemetery, and this is all down to the volunteers who come out on the second Sunday of the month for the clean-up. Well done everyone!

Go mbeimid go léir anseo arís an bhliain seo chugainn! (May we all be here again next year).

Funding for regeneration projects in Castlerea, Roscommon and Strokestown

Projects in Castlerea, Roscommon and Strokestown are set to beneﬁt from funding of €2.6 million to support the development of a wide range of Town Centre

First projects. A total of 53 projects are being supported, with up to €50,000 of funding for each project. Roscommon County Council has welcomed the announcement, which it says will provide a major boost to the Council’s ambitious regeneration programmes for the county.

Funding allocated for Castlerea will assist in the completion of design assessment for the Bennett’s Walled Garden in the Castlerea Demesne, with the intention to upgrade and restore and protect walls and arches and develop accessible trails and walkways through the garden to improve access to the existing trails and walkways along the Demesne.

Similar funding has been allocated to Roscommon town to enhance Loughna-

neane Park in the centre of the town by completing developmental studies including archaeological, screening reports, acquiring licenses, and completing landscaping, signage and artistic installation designs.

The third project to receive funding is the restoration of the former Magnet Ballroom in Strokestown, which will enable surveys and design transforming a derelict and vacant building into

a social community and wellbeing hub.

This funding will also support pre-development works for projects and support costs including detailed design, planning, procurement, professional fees, assessments and other development costs.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said she was looking forward to seeing these exciting projects and initiatives progress and make positive impacts for rural towns and villages.

Kerrane pushing for reopening of Frenchpark sensory garden

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane says she is in discussions with Roscommon County Council to secure the reopening of the sensory garden in Frenchpark.

“The sensory garden in Frenchpark is a wonderful amenity, but it’s been closed now for some time”, said Deputy Kerrane. “In particular, the local childcare facility is missing it”.

She added: “I have been

engaging with Roscommon County Council for some time on getting the sensory garden reopened and work is now underway on a new lease agreement”.

Deputy Kerrane says she has also been working with local parents to make the case for the development of a playground.

“We are working towards funding for a playground for Frenchpark, which I believe is needed and could be co-lo-

cated in what is a large site… where the sensory garden is located.

“I would hope we could also look at parking, as I know with the childcare facility and the fact the sensory garden is located in a housing estate, parking would be an issue should we get approval for a playground.

“In the meantime, I hope we can get the sensory garden reopened shortly”, she concluded.

All voices must be heard in transgender debate

< ROSCOMMON PEOPLE READER

(Name and address with Editor)

The recent Pride celebrations in Roscommon Town mark a signiﬁcant historic turning point, offering us an opportunity to consider the progress we’ve achieved. It is heartening to see gay individuals and couples feeling safe and accepted in our locality. I attended the parade and the celebrations in the park on Saturday, and it was clear to me that this was a deeply emotional occasion for many. The atmosphere was incredibly friendly and afﬁrmative, showcasing a collective commitment to support and reassurance.

In the run-up to the weekend there was nothing but positive encouragement shown, with the council heavily promoting the event, and businesses endorsing the occasion and showing their support. It has recently been announced that up to €400,000 is being made available in grants for organisations who work with young people under the LGBTI+ Youth Fund 2024. At this critical juncture it is important to allow for a meaningful dialogue about how we can create a space for families and children within our community. Not everyone may have a complete understanding of what is encompassed by the LGBTQ+ umbrella. While I’m not an expert, I want to highlight some of the issues that are currently being advocated for.

A signiﬁcant symbol that has emerged in recent years is the transgender pride ﬂag, which incorporates baby blue and baby pink stripes along with a white central stripe. The blue and pink colours are representative of traditional gender norms: blue for boys and pink for girls. These colours serve to challenge preconceived notions about gender identity. As the discourse around gender has evolved — in the wake of feminist thought and achievements in advocating for gay rights — we’ve seen remarkable changes in how we perceive and express gender roles.

While I can see how what started off well intentioned with parents and educators reminding children that boys can like pink, and girls can like blue, etc., what has evolved into ideas of gender in relation to transgender ‘rights’ has its contradictions. Ironically, while gender ideology (stemming from the writing of Judith Butler, which is taught at third level in Ireland) posits that gender is a social construct lying on a spectrum, some facets of transgender ideology seem to reinforce the very gender norms it aims to dismantle.

Trends observed in some states in the USA suggest a rising normalisation of transitioning at increasingly younger ages. The financial aspect is also concerning, as medical professionals can earn significantly from gender-affirming surgeries – often a lucrative process compared to other essential surgical

services, such as heart surgery. This raises alarming questions about the motives behind recommending such procedures when a child’s natural development is at stake. The argument involves the view that we should prevent ‘trans children’ from enduring the discomfort associated with undergoing puberty in their ‘assigned gender’. The best case scenario, both for these children (as argued) and for the professionals providing gender-afﬁrming ‘care’, is to initiate treatment as early as possible.

Ironically, the rhetoric surrounding ‘letting kids be who they are’ collides with the reality that many of the same advocates push for what some claim are irreversible medical alterations, particularly through puberty blockers which halt crucial developmental processes. I acknowledge arguments that puberty blockers only pause, rather than completely halt, the puberty process and that these blockers have been used in ‘cis children’ facing precocious puberty. However, this information has primarily been made public by those who advocate for gender-afﬁrming care. ‘Hormone replacement therapy’ can have both reversible and irreversible effects.

The danger of a school-to-gender clinic pipeline cannot be overlooked, particularly as educational institutions operate under ﬁnancial strains postCovid. Children should be allowed

to experience discomfort and uncertainty during formative years, as these experiences contribute to a robust understanding of their identities. Most people eventually come to understand themselves better with the wisdom of hindsight. However, there is a growing concern that adults – including some parents – are placing these complex ideas before children without adequately considering the implications.

Amidst these discussions, it’s vital to acknowledge the diverse voices that exist within the transgender community. Many individuals who wished to detransition are ﬁnding themselves without the necessary support, research, or acknowledgment of their lived experiences, emphasising the need for an open dialogue where every story can be heard. Holding space for these perspectives is not merely about afﬁrming a particular ideology but recognising the multifaceted realities of the human experience.

The strength of belonging to a supportive community is palpable; however, these ties should not come at the expense of critical questioning or indifference to dissenting views. While I recognise that self-expression can be a beautiful and empowering journey, and I have no doubt that many individuals have formed meaningful friendships with like-minded people through their experiences, it is crucial to consider the deeper implications of transgenderism.

It appears that there may be a philosophical argument underlying this issue that is often addressed through a medical lens. This raises important questions about whether transitioning is genuinely the most beneﬁcial solution for individuals grappling with a disconnection between their body and mind. Instead of primarily focusing on medical or external intervention, society should provide individuals with the strength and support needed to reconcile with their physical selves.

Last weekend, it was heartwarming to witness so many individuals coming together in solidarity. I commend everyone involved for their efforts in making Pride a success. It’s inspiring to see the community unite in celebration and support for gay individuals and families.

Furthermore, as we navigate the complexities of gender discourse and its implications, we must ensure that the conversation includes the voices of those who wish to express differing viewpoints. It’s important that we recognise how our realities have changed from both an adult and child standpoint, particularly in the context of progress toward ‘gender equality’. We owe it to the next generation and ourselves to foster an environment that honours individual journeys, supports healthy exploration of identity, and promotes holistic well-being without succumbing to ideological extremes.

Tisha McCormack and Bob Hay pictured at the Roscommon Races last week. Picture: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

set to be performed at the Roscommon Arts Centre at 8 pm next Friday, September 6th

‘SUGAR’ – new heartfelt comedy

at

Roscommon Arts Centre

‘SUGAR’, a new heartfelt comedy written by Michael Patric and directed by Geoff Gould, is set to be performed at the Roscommon Arts Centre at 8 pm next Friday, September 6th

Written by award-winning writer and actor Michael Patric (known for his performances in An Cailín Ciúin, Smother, and Frontier), this witty and poignant play promises an unforgettable evening of laughter and heart.

Set against the backdrop of the Mallow sugar factory, just before its closure, the play explores the essence of resilience and humour in the face of life’s challenges.

‘SUGAR’ follows the story of Danyl Sweetnam, an Irish Sugar employee navigating his last days on the job in 2006. As Danyl attempts to stay focused on his work, he often ﬁnds himself sidetracked by ‘the craic,’ leading the audience through a series of hilarious and touching moments. With his marriage on the rocks, job security in question, and a recent family bereavement, Danyl faces overwhelming odds. Yet rather than succumbing to despair, he chooses to laugh his way through it all.

Contrary to the stereotype of the stoic Irish male, Danyl is refreshingly open about his struggles, sharing his story with anyone willing to listen. His journey reminds us all of the power of humour and hope, even in the darkest of times.

Tickets for the upcoming production at Roscommon Arts Centre cost €18 and can be purchased online or though the Box Ofﬁce on 090 662 5824. For more information, or to buy tickets online now, visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon artist shortlisted for AIB Portrait Prize

From hundreds of entries, the shortlist for this year’s AIB Portrait Prize has been announced by the National Gallery of Ireland –and among the talented artists to have made the cut is Roscommon’s Conor O’Connell, who was shortlisted alongside 25 other artists from across the country for his piece, ‘Ómra’, a work in oil on copper panel.

The AIB Portrait Prize shortlist includes painting, drawing, sculpture, video and photography, demonstrating the breadth of contemporary Irish art. The win-

ner of the AIB Portrait Prize will receive a cash prize of €15,000 and will be commissioned to create a work for the national portrait collection, for which they will be awarded a further €5,000. Two additional awards of €1,500 will be given to highly commended works. The judges for the AIB Portrait Prize are Hughie O’Donoghue (artist, painter and writer), Emer McGarry (Director of The Model, Sligo) and Simon O’Connor (Director of the Museum of Literature, Ireland).

Exhibitions of the shortlisted

works will run at the National Gallery of Ireland from November 9th 2024 until March 9th 2025.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony held in the National Gallery of Ireland on the 27th of November 2024.

Find out more at nationalgallery. ie.

Roscommon artist Conor O’Connell has been shortlisted for this year’s AIB Portrait Prize at the National Gallery of Ireland for his piece, ‘Ómra’, a work in oil on copper panel.

Frenchpark Ladies Group pictured recently at Boyle Craft Shop, all set for their National Heritage Week Tour of Boyle with Tony Conboy.

Ardcarne Parish Graveyard Committee hosted a guided tour with archaeologist Mary Timoney for National Heritage Week. Pic: Paraic Brennan

‘SUGAR’ is

Athlone Castle celebrates National Heritage Week 2024

Sandra King of Irish Fibre Crafters pictured demonstrating hand-spinning techniques at the recent ‘Storm the Castle’ event held as part of Athlone Castle’s National Heritage Week celebrations.

Aoibheann O’Rourke and Isobel Prendergast pictured getting ready to joust during the recent ‘Storm the Castle’ event held as part of Athlone Castle’s National Heritage Week celebrations.

GOING OUT

Members of the Ballygar Carnival committee pictured with the Murray brothers Tony (ﬁfth from left) and Jim (ﬁfth from right) of Murray’s Amusements and Jim’s wife

Phyllis (centre) at the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

The Murray brothers Tony (left) and Jim (right) of Murray’s Amusements pictured at the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Ballygar Carnival. Murray’s Amusements have been coming to Ballygar Carnival for 63 years. Pic: Peter Daly

The Ballygar Carnival committee pictured at the unveiling of the plaque to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Conor Moran, Chairperson of the Ballygar Carnival Committee, pictured with guest of honour Jim Murray from Murray’s Amusements, at the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Sam, Ruth and Ted Gunning pictured with Phil Gunning (centre) and Olive Blackmore (right) during the recent Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Ronan Conneely pictured with his nephews Tadgh and Ruarí McNeela during the recent Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Eileen and PJ Hynes pictured during the recent Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

People enjoying the Ballygar Carnival which took place recently. Pic: Peter Daly

Diane Davis and Margaret Mannion pictured during the recent Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Treasa Devine, Linda McArdle and Marie McArdle pictured during the recent Ballygar Carnival. Pic: Peter Daly

Charming Kilglass residence new

to market at Remax Team Earley

This week, Cathal Meares of Remax Team Earley is pleased to present to the market an exceptional residential opportunity in the heart of Kilglass – Lake View House, Kerlagh, Kilglass, Co Roscommon (F42 Y268). This charming two-storey residence, set on approximately an acre, offers a unique blend of comfort, character, and conveni-

ence. Ideal for ﬁrst-time buyers, investors, holiday home seekers, and ﬁshing enthusiasts, this property is in turn-key condition and ready for immediate occupancy.

This stunning 1,800 square foot home features three spacious bedrooms, providing ample space for family living. The residence is meticulously maintained and exudes

To try to facilitate disappointed underbidders, Remax Team Earley are urgently looking for properties in the Convent Court area of Roscommon Town for cash and mortgage-approved clients.

All properties will be considered, and a free appraisal service is offered. And remember – no sale, no fee! For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact one of the auctioneers directly by phoning Keith on 086 0848590, Cormac on 086 3519492, or Cathal on 086 1409158.

a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Heated via OFCH, it also boasts an impressive B3 BER, ensuring energy efﬁciency and comfort throughout the year.

Adding to the property’s charm is an old stone building located at the entrance. This historic structure not only enhances the character of the residence but also offers additional storage space, catering to a variety of needs.

The property enjoys a prime location with easy access to several key towns and cities: Roscommon Town is approximately 25 minutes away, Boyle is approximately 25 minutes away, Carrick-on-Shannon is approximately 20 minutes away, Longford is approximately 20 minutes away, and Dublin is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes away. Additionally, the nearest village is just a short drive away, providing essential amenities and a sense of community.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the property is ideally

situated close to Kilglass Lake and Lough Ree (River Shannon), offering excellent opportunities for fishing and recreational activities. Located in a renowned fishing district, it’s an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts.

This residence on one acre at Kerlagh, Kilglass, Co Roscommon is a perfect blend of modern living and countryside charm. With its turn-key condition, historic stone building, and proximity to key locations and natural attractions, this property is an exceptional ﬁnd. Don’t miss the chance to make this beautiful home your own!

This property must be viewed to be appreciated, and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@ remax.ie, log onto.teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Cathal directly on 086 1409158.

Lake View House, Kerlagh, Kilglass, Co Roscommon (F42 Y268).

Classifieds

FUEL FOR SALE

ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS

If you WANT to stop gambling ... and REMAIN stopped ... you CAN!

GAMBLERS

ANONYMOUS MEETING every Monday at 8.45 pm at St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Athlone (N37 W7P3).

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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Stephen Casey Construction

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Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

 GOOD QUALITY TURF for sale. Delivered. Ballaghaderreen area. Tel. 087 6810849.

TRAILERS FARMING

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BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

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TRAILER SERVICING & REPAIRS to all makes and models (LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.)

Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

FOR SALE: 151 Toyota Corolla Dsl Saloon; 141 Toyota Corolla Dsl Saloon; 2008 Toyota Auris Dsl.; 2012 Toyota Avensis Dsl.; Burger Food Van as new. Tel 086 2650994

MAN AVAILABLE

MAN AVAILABLE to cut lawns and hedges, power washing of houses/ slatted sheds/driveways. Drain unblocking and cleaning. Gutter cleaning. Tel. 086 101 8237

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Enda Nally, intend to apply for permission for development at Clooneenbaun, Athlone North, Roscommon.

The development consists of Permission for a sheep shed, a roofed manure pit, and ancillary works (i.e. concrete yards) all for agricultural purposes only) in the existing farmyard utilising the existing farm access road and entrance.

Signed: Christopher Kinghan Agricultural Planning and Design (Agent).

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Peter & Heidi McDonagh, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council, for Full Planning Permission for the following: - (1) construction of a proposed extension to an existing dwelling house, together with the demolition of the existing at roof extension to the rear of the existing house to facilitate the development (2) renovation works to existing house including the provision of a new pitched roof to existing front porch (3) construction of detached shed (4) provision of new e uent treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Bush eld Td, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the Planning Authority during its public oﬃce hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the

Signed: Peter & Heidi McDonagh.

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Further information /revised plans

Name of Applicant: Michael Di ey.

Ref. Number of the Application: PD/24/25

The development applied for consisted of: 4 bay sheep shed and associated services and site development works at Carranure Lower, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

Signiﬁcant Further Information / Revised Plans has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at the oﬃces of the authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority within the statutory time limit. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation.

Signed: Michael Di ey. Date of erection of site notice: 29/08/2024.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Declan Fallon, intend to apply for Permission for the following:

A. the construction of a detached single storey dwelling with a detached garage,

B. Installation of a sewerage treatment unit and tertiary treatment area, C. Along with connections to site services, and all other associated site works.

At: Kilgarve Td, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:

Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

PROPERTIES TO

LET/ RENT/WANTED

 3 BED HOUSE TO RENT in Fuerty/Castlecoote area. OFCH/Solid Fuel Heating. Garden and o road parking. Tel 083 0653694.

 3 BEDROOM HOUSE to rent in Roscommon town. No pets. Tel 086 1581296.

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 o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Laura Franks, wish to apply to the above authority for Planning Permission to construct 3 number glamping pods with associate decking and hot tubs, convert existing shed to glamping pod with hot tub, demolish existing out building & part of existing hay barn, change of use from hay barn to car parking area & construct new laundry room, connection to water main & install new proprietary treatment unit & percolation area and all associated site works at Coolatober, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 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: Eric Nugent & Associates (Agent) Planning & Design Consultants, 20 St. Francis Terrace, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Mobile: 0863379733

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We Ballinagare Community Centre, intend to apply for permission for development at Ballinagare Community Centre, Ballinagare, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 XP76.

The development will consist of the following:

1. A single storey extension to the front of the existing community centre, 2. The provision of a new MUGA sports court including fencing and lighting,

3. The provision of a new paddle court including fencing and lighting, 4. The provision of a new sensory garden Including all associated car parking, landscaping, lighting, signage and ancillary site works.

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

Signed: Killian Consulting Engineers,

Brideswell Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath N37 T223. Tel. 090 64 88786.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is sought to construct a new agriculture entrance, and all associated site works to farmlands at Adreevin, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon for Con Co ey.

The

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I am applying on behalf of St Dominic’s GAA club for planning permission for the following development works at the club grounds on this site at Gailey, Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon , F42 FC44

The development at this site will consist of the following proposed works:

A. Proposed new Gaa training pitch complete with gaa goals x 2, Ball stop nets x 2, fencing around the perimeter of the training pitch, 20 metre high Led ood lighting around the training pitch and a digital score board complete with all other associated works.

B. Proposed new tiered spectators stand for the use associated with the above training pitch.

C. Proposed new 20 metre led ood lighting to the existing main pitch and all associated site works.

D. Proposed new training areas complete with gaa goal posts and ball stop nets and all associated site works.

E.Proposed new Astro pitch complete with fencing and highlevel lighting and all associated works

F. Proposed new Biodiversity and sensory garden area complete with fencing and all associated site works

G. Proposed new pedestrian walkway around the perimeter of the site and around the perimeter of the proposed gaa training pitch and associated areas complete with lighting and all associated site works

H. Proposed new car parking area and all associated site works

I. Proposed new uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, and tra c controls and all associated site works

J. Proposed new athletic running track, long jump and high jump areas complete with lighting and all associated site works.

K. Proposed new storage shed

L. All other ancillary development associated with the proposed development.

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 €20.00 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 : Michael O Connor

Chairperson

- St Dominic’s Gaa Club

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Full planning permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for the proposed partial redesign of a previously permitted residential development granted full planning permission under planning reference number’s PD/22/274 & PD/23/60178 whereby it is now proposed to replace the permitted 2 no. detached bungalow type dwelling houses on site no.’s 09 & 10 that were granted full planning permission under planning reference number pd/22/274 with 4 no. two bedroom storey & a half terraced type dwelling houses of the same design to those recently granted full planning permission on site no.’s 03-06 inclusive under planning reference number pd/23/60178, connections to various services and all ancillary site works at the Maples, Lisroyne, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon for Avenir Homes Ltd.

Signed: Cunningham Design & Planning Ltd., Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford.

LEGAL NOTICE

THE DISTRICT COURT (AN CHUIRT DUICHE)

PUBLIC DANCE HALLS ACT 1935 SECTION 2

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE

District Court Area of ROSCOMMON District No. 4

BRYAN O’GARA – Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that Bryan O’Gara of Old Circular Road, Roscommon in the County of Roscommon as nominee on behalf of KPBM Limited, intends to apply to the Court sitting at Roscommon Annual Licensing District Court Racecourse Road, Roscommon in the County of Roscommon in the Court Area and District aforesaid, on the 17th day of September, 2024 at 10.30am or an adjourned date thereafter, for a Dance Licence for Public Dancing pursuant to the provisions of the Public Dance Halls Act, 1935 in respect of premises known as “Rockfords Nightclub and Jack’s Live Venue” situate at Castle Street, Roscommon in the County of Roscommon in the Court Area and District aforesaid.

Dated the 22nd day of August, 2024

Signed: Peter H Jones, Solicitors for the Applicant, Go Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

To: The Superintendant, An Garda Siochana, The Garda Station Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

And To: The District Court Clerk. Courts Services, Government Buildings, Golf Links Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

And To: The Chief Fire O cer, The Fire Service Station, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon. Being the Fire Authority for the purposes of the Fire Services Act, 1981 And To: The Secretary, Roscommon County Council, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon. Being the Local Authority for the purpose of the Public Dance Halls Act, 1935

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatmeny

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

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

SIOBHAN

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –

DIP CHFP

(Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Electrician Available

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

FIND ANYONE

to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ... WE DO ANYTHING

From ﬁtting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath

• Fast Reliable Service

• Professional, Courteous Employees

• Trustworthy ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

GARDENING

Du y 087

www.westsidegardening.ie

GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available C2 Registered &

Free Quotations

including competency-based questions)

* EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING

For more details check www.carolineburke.ie For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE

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

APPOINTMENTS

Carer required in the Knockcroghery area

Please apply to PO Box No. 3111, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Thompson

Butler

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon T: +353 94 9860187 www.thompsonbutlersteel.ie

OPERATIVE REQUIRED

We are looking for an ENTHUSIASTIC AND ENERGETIC PERSON TO WORK IN OUR BUSY DELI DEPARTMENT on a weekday basis

• Some experience of steel products not essential but preferred

• Immediate start

Please email C.V. to: accounts@thompsonbutlersteel.ie

Thompson

Butler Steel Ltd

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon T: +353 94 9860187 www.thompsonbutlersteel.ie

• Full, clean Licence • Current C.P.C Card • Experience necessary • Immediate start

Please email C.V. to: accounts@thompsonbutlersteel.ie

The ideal candidate will have some experience of either working in the food service or retail business, be available to work Monday to Friday mornings with the option to work afternoons or weekends if desired.

We are also looking for GENERAL SALES STAFF for Monday to Friday shifts

• Flexible hours and days of work Expressions of interest or CV’s can be posted to Oliver Holmes, Centra, Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway F42X372 or email: oholmes1974@gmail.com or alternatively phone 0906624078

Attractive

CARROLL

Willie Clare, Strokestown (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Willie Carroll late of Clare, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon who died on September 7th, 2016

R.I.P.

Your memories are so precious your presence missed so much you will always be remembered and missed by all of us. Our thoughts are always with you, in a very special way not just on your anniversary, but every single day. You always had a smile to share a laugh, a joke and time to care a kindly nature, warm and true many lovely memories we have of you.

Lovingly remembered by your sons Pat, Donal, Sean, daughters Anne, Mary, Kate, Lorna, sons-in-law and daughters-in-law.

GRANDAD

What we’d give if we could say

“Hello Grandad” in the same old way. To hear your voice and see your smile, to sit with you and chat a while.

So if you have a Grandad cherish him with care for you’ll never know the heartache until you see his empty chair.

Lovingly remembered by all your grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon on Sunday, 1st September at 11am.

M cDERMOTT

Cyril

Ballyroddy, Elphin, Co.Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In memory of Cyril, who passed away on 5th of August 2021

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his neighbours, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 7th of September at 7.30pm in the Church of the Holy Trinity, Kilmaryal, (eircode F45 NX60).

BRESLIN

Mark

Remembering Mark Breslin, late of Curcreigh, Elphin on the 1st Anniversary of his death on August 28th, 2023. (1st Anniversary)

Think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched. For nothing loved is ever lost, and Mark was loved so much.

Lovingly remembered by Breege and Robert. Anniversary Mass in St. Catherine’s Church, Killina on Friday, 30th August

MacLEAN

(née Kilmartin)

Dolores Marie

‘Hillview’ Lisnagirra, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who died on 9th September 2023

(1st Anniversary)

We stood that morn and watched her depart with a silent tear and a breaking heart. None knew the depth of our regret, but we will remember when others forget. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone. Part of us went with you, the day God took you home.

Forever missed and loved by her husband, John and families; her son David; her sisters, nieces, nephews; neighbours and friends. Rest in Peace.

1st Annivesary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 8th September at 10.00 am in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

DOORLY

Heather Ashbrook, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon. (15th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a dear wife and mother, who passed away on August 28th 2009. R.I.P.

A heart too gentle, a mind too deep, a beautiful soul, forever asleep. Eyes full of sparkle, a heart full of love, now shining brightly from Heaven above. Will those who think of Heather today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Dearly loved and missed every day by husband Michéal, daughters Rachel and Rhona, sisters Sharon and Lorna, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 1st September at 10am in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue.

KELLY

Nellie

Feevaghmore, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (17th Anniversary) Who passed away on 8th September 2007

No birthday card to send you, for there is no address, only a beautiful garden where you have gone to rest. A day that’s ﬁlled with sadness, returns to us today, to mark the day you closed your eyes and quietly passed away. Nothing can dim the face we loved, or the memory of your smile, the countless things you did for us, to make our lives worthwhile. Our hearts still ache with sadness, our secret tears still ﬂow, for what it meant to lose you no one will ever know.

Loved and remembered always.

Anniversary Mass for Nellie will be held in Dysart Church on Friday, 30th August at 7.30 pm.

COSTELLO

Patrick

16 Circular Road, Roscommon. Who died 31st August 2001 (23rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear dad Patrick

The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you shall never pass away. Loved and remembered by your daughter Martina, Jimmy, Jude and Sinéad.

COSTELLO

Patrick

Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday. It’s the heartache of losing you that will never go away. Loved and remembered by your son Noel, Kathy and family

NAUGHTON Tommie (12th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tommie Naughton, Tully East, Ballygar, Co. Galway, who died on 23rd March 2012

Though absent, you are very near. Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Sadly missed by his wife Mary, son Michael and family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday August 31st at 7.30pm in St Marys Church, Ballygar.

NAUGHTON Geraldine

Tully East, Ballygar, Co.Galway (12th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Geraldine Naughton who passed away on 25th August 2012.

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words we will never forget. When thoughts go back as they always do, we treasure the memories we have of you.

Sadly missed by her mother Mary, brother Michael, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday August 31st at 7.30pm in St Marys Church, Ballygar.

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. G.F.

www.brianmurraystone.com E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com KILLIAN Eilish

Ros-Ria, The Walk, Roscommon Who passed away on September 2nd 2013 (11th Anniversary) R.I.P.

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

If it’s memories that keep us close, then we are never far apart. For you are always on our minds and forever in our hearts.

Loved and missed by his wife, Paula. Mass has been offered.

~~~~~~~~~

God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you, and whispered “come to me.”

With tearful eyes we watched you and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, he only takes the best.

Loved and remembered by daughters Donna and Sheena, son Aaron, son-in-law Joseph and grandchildren Joshua, Adam and Evanna. xxx

~~~~~~~~~

To us you were someone special, someone set apart. Your memory will live forever engraved in our hearts.

Loved and sadly missed by your brother Seamus, sister-in-law Elizabeth and nieces Lorna and Shan; Shauna and Gerard and grandchildren Mason, Jamie and Bobby.

Hollywell, Roscommon (28th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear Eilish, who God called home on 1st September 1996

Her life a beautiful memory, her absence a silent grief.

Forever missed by her sister Aine, brother John , Auntie May extended family and many friends. Anniversary Mass for Eilish and her uncle Paddy, (8th Anniversary), on Saturday, 31st August at 7pm. in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane.

Patrick (Pat) Newtown, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Pat who passed away on August 31st 2019 (5th Anniversary)

Never more than a thought away, loved and remembered every day.

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

Lovingly remembered by his wife Pauline and family.

Anniversary

COMPTON

Mass on Sunday, 1st September at 10am in Carniska Church, Strokestown. May his gentle soul Rest In Peace

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

DOLAN

Evan (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Evan who fell asleep on 31st August 2016

When the stars shine up in the sky, we miss you When the sun rises and sets every day, we miss you. When the rain falls and everything looks bright and beautiful, we miss you. Every day, every hour in every way, in everything we do, we miss you.

Your loving parents, Robbie and Marian; your brother Cian and sister Aoife.

Anniversary Mass for Evan will take place in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 31st August at 10am.

DOLAN

Evan (8th Anniversary) 31st August

In loving memory of Evan

A beautiful memory, dearer than gold, of a grandson whose worth can never be told. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear. Loved and missed Granny and Grandad.

Your memory in our hearts this day, means more to us than words can say. Unseen, unheard, but always near, loved, remembered and ever dear. From Barbara, David and family.

The years may pass, but still you stay, as near and dear, as yesterday. Always loved Brenda. xx

To us you were someone special, what more is there to say. Wishing with all our hearts, that you were here today. Always remembered Ailish and Aidan.

As I look upon your picture, sweet memories I recall, Of a face so full of sunshine and a smile for one and all. I look up to the sky when it’s a starry night, and know that you’ll be there, the biggest star shining bright.

Loved and always remembered, Noelle. x

FLANAGAN

Brendan Cornashinagh, Fourmilehouse (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear Brendan, whom God called home on 30th August 2013 It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you Home. Those we love must someday pass beyond our present sight, must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place, more perfect, more divine. And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright, our loved ones live forever in God’s Eternal Light.

Forever missed and loved by his wife Mary, sons John and Martin, daughters Jacqueline, Tracy, Elaine, Leonie and Ashling, sons-in-law Ian and Oisin, brother Patsy, sisters Ita, Madeline, Anne and Jean and extended family and friends.

Masses offered.

BOLTON

(née Wogan)

Nuala 41 Tarmon Manor, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

We mark the second year without our dear wife and mother. Let us ﬁnd comfort in the countless ways she touched our lives. Her legacy of kindness and strength will always inspire us. Loved and sadly missed by her husband Dermot, daughters Maria and Sandra, sons Dermot and Robbie, sons-in-law Martin and Antonio, and grandchildren. Masses offered.

QUINN

Mary

Knockroe, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Mary following her First Anniversary. Forever loved, remembered and greatly missed by her daughters Marie, Breege, Eilish and Una, sons in law Pat, Seamus and Mark, niece and nephew Mary and Michael, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives, dearest neighbours and friends.

We the family wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us at the family home, funeral home, Funeral Mass and burial; including those who travelled far, as well as those who sent condolences and/or Mass cards.

Your thoughts and support were a great source of comfort to us all and were warmly appreciated.

A special thank you to Doctor Greg Kelly and the wonderful sta at the Kelly Henry Medical Centre for their care and kindness throughout the years.

A sincere thank you to Fr John McManus for both his support to the family and for celebrating Mary’s Funeral Mass. We also thank Father Chris Garret for his prayers and warmth at the Funeral Home.

A heartfelt thank you to Claire Kelly, organist Enna Conroy and the church choir for the musical arrangement and who together with the Eucharistic Ministers, Sacristan and Ushers made the celebration of Mary’s life ever special.

Our thanks and appreciation to Paul and Susan Gaynor for the professionalism, kindness and empathy shown to the family and a further thank you to the gravediggers who prepared Mary’s nal resting place.

Thank you to the sta at Garvey’s and to Patricia Smyth for the beautiful food following the burial.

Finally, we o er our heartfelt thanks to Mary’s wonderful neighbours, friends and relatives who were always there for her.

FALLON

Pat and Kathleen Kilcash, Rahara.

In loving memory of our dear parents, whose anniversaries occur at this time

Today recalls the memories of two loved ones gone to rest, and those who think of them today are those who loved them best. The ﬂowers we lay upon their grave may wither and decay but the love for them who lie beneath will never fade away.

Lovingly remembered and always missed by your family.

KEAVENEY

Liam

Roundforth, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away on 2nd September 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

We hold you within our hearts, and there you shall remain.

To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

So, Rest in Peace, dear Liam, and thanks for all you’ve done.

We pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

He is sadly missed by his wife Margaret, his three children Michael, Enda and Lisa, Enda’s partner Carretta, his son-in-law John, grandchildren Mia and Jack, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives, friends and neighbours.

Liam’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 31st August at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

FAMILYNOTICES ....

SMALL (née Kiernan)

Mary

Millford, Creggs, Co. Galway

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother and grandmother who passed away on the 30th August 2021 (3rd Anniversary)

Sometimes when we ﬁrst awake we think that your still there. And for a ﬂeeting moment the clouds all disappear. For you brought endless sunshine until you went away. And now we miss you desperately, each minute of the day. You would not like to see us sad, so what we try and do is to live a happy and bright life in memory of you.

For though we will always miss you and it’s dreadful being apart, we haven’t really lost you, you are still here in our hearts.

Always remembered by your loving husband John, children Jacinta, John, Aoife, Dean, grandchildren, partners, brother Marty and extended family.

Mary’s 3rd Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet, Creggs on Sunday 1st September at 11.30 am.

HOARE

Gladys and James 21 Circular Road, Roscommon town

Gladys (21st Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 1st September, 2003

James (17th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 6th June 2007

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do. A special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, and although we cannot see you, you are always by our side.

Sadly missed by their daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great -grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will take place on Thursday 19th September in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11am.

PRAYER TO ST EXPEDITE FOR URGENT MATTERS & DESPERATE SITUATIONS

My St. Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with our Lord Jesus Christ. Succor me in this hour of a iction and despair, my St. Expedite. You, who are a holy warrior. You, who are the saint of the a icted. You, who are the saint of the desperate. You, who are the saint of urgent causes, protect me; help me. Give me strength, courage and serenity. Hear my plea. [Mention your urgent need here] My St. Expedite, help me to prevail through these di cult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency. Bring me back to the state of peace and tranquility, my St. Expedite. I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. O glorious martyr, St. Expedite, you who know that the greatest obstacle in life is the delay of time, please answer my plea with urgency. Intercede for me with the Holy Spirit to intercede on my behalf before the Father. May I receive your blessings and favors, and quickly see the manifestation of your intercession. O St. Expedite, patron of those who hope for rapid solutions, I humbly kneel before you, seeking your miraculous aid. Through your intercession, may my urgent request be granted. With sincere gratitude, I promise to glorify your name and spread devotion to you. Amen. May the intercession of the glorious martyr, St. Expedite, recommend us, O my God, to Thy goodness, in order that his protection may obtain for us what our own merits are powerless to do. Amen. We supplicate Thee Lord, to inspire, by Thy grace all our thoughts and actions. That thou being their principle, we may by the intercession of St. Expedite, be conducted with courage, delity and promptitude, at the time proper and favorable, and come to a good and happy end. Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. St. Expedite, honored by the gratitude of those who have invoked thee at the last hour and for pressing cases. We pray thee to obtain from the all-powerful goodness of God, by the intercession of Mary Immaculate, today, or such a day the grace we solicit with all submission to the Divine Will. Amen. Pray one time each: Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be… K.M.

BEIRNE Paddy

Knockmaine, Scrine, Co. Roscommon

We, the family of the late Paddy Beirne, who passed away on the 28th of July 2024, wish to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with and supported us in our time of loss.

A very special thanks to all our kind neighbours, friends and family who visited, brought refreshments to our home, provided transport and gave great comfort. A heartfelt thanks to all who attended the Removal, Requiem Mass and Burial. To those who travelled long distances, watched via livestream, sent Mass Cards, Sympathy Cards, phone calls, text messages, oral tributes and thoughtful online condolences, thank you.

Sincere thanks to the medical and support sta of Portiuncula and Roscommon Hospitals. A very special thanks to Dr. Brendan Crosbie for his outstanding care and attention to Paddy and the comfort and reassurance that gave to us.

Thank you to Fr. Ray Milton for his comfort and compassion at this time and for the beautiful Funeral Mass. Sincere gratitude to all who assisted in planning, typing and who participated in the Mass. Thank you to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, who visited our home and prayed with us during the family prayers and to Fr. Michael Donnelly and Fr. Frank McGrath SMA, for their welcome presence at the Funeral Mass.

Thank you to Cliona McDonagh accompanied by Olivia Callaghan for the beautiful singing as Paddy was brought to repose at St. Patrick’s Church. Heartfelt gratitude also to Karen McKim accompanied by Chris Stapleton for the fabulous singing and music at the Funeral Mass.

Thank you to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism, sensitivity and guidance with the funeral arrangements.

Thank you to our wonderful neighbours who prepared Paddy’s nal resting place with such care, thought, and attention, adorned in his beloved Tremane colours and beautiful owers.

Heartfelt thank you to Tremane Hurling Club for the many years of joy they brought to Paddy’s living years and for the tribute and respect shown to him in his passing both in the guards of honours and graveside. Thanks to Hannon’s Hotel Sta for their catering and service with kindness.

Sincere thanks to Sabrina and Flowers by Dooleys, Athlone, for the beautiful oral arrangements.

Thank you to Triest Press for printing the booklets.

As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt gratitude. Your thoughts, prayers, presence and support gave us great comfort. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Paddy’s Months Mind Mass will be celebrated on Friday 6th of September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a speci c week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

Sports PEOPLE

GAA results

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group B)

Faithleach’s 1-11 Western Gaels 1-10 RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd Junior B FC (Group A) St Brigid’s 5-13 Shannon Gaels 4-7 Elphin 3-11 Kilglass Gaels 0-5

RosGal

Gaels blow old script away

Kepak Roscommon SHC quarter-ﬁnal Roscommon Gaels 1-19 Tremane 3-9

(Group B)

GAA ﬁxtures

Thursday, August 29

RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd Junior B

(Group B)

Lisnamult: St Croan’s v St Dominic’s. 8 pm

RosGal Loss Assessors

(Group C) Kilbride: Kilmore v Oran. 8 pm RosGal Loss Assessors Ltd Junior B FC (Group D) Kiltoom: Fuerty v St Faithleach’s. 8 pm

Friday, August 30

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group A)

Strokestown: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Oran. 8 pm

Tarmonbarry: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Roscommon Gaels. 8 pm

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group B)

Ballyforan: Michael Glaveys v St Faithleach’s. 8 pm

Lisnamult: Western Gaels v St Brigid’s. 8 pm

Saturday, August 31

Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC (Group C)

Woodmount: Pádraig Pearses v Boyle. 6 pm

Knockcroghery: St Dominic’s v Clann na nGael. 6 pm

J Keane & Sons Ltd IFC (Group B)

Lisnamult: Creggs v Fuerty. 5 pm

O’Rourke Park: St Croan’s v Éire Óg. 5 pm

J Keane & Sons Ltd IFC (Group C)

Strokestown: Strokestown v St Brigid’s. 6 pm

Kilmore: Kilmore v St Michael’s. 6 pm

Sunday, September 1

J Keane & Sons Ltd IFC (Group A)

Ballinameen: Elphin v Shannon Gaels. 4.30 pm

Knockcroghery: Kilbride v Pádraig Pearses. 4.30 pm

Creggs: Clann na nGael v Ballinameen. 12.30 pm

Knockcroghery: Roscommon Gaels v St Joseph’s. 12.30 pm King & Mo att Junior A FC (Group C)

Strokestown: Strokestown

 SEAMUS DUKE

For many seasons past, Roscommon Gaels were the whipping boys of the Roscommon senior hurling championship, invariably going out before the play-off stages year after year. But those days have come to an end, and the town team are now in the last four in this year’s championship, and deservedly so too after this ﬁne win against Tremane in Ballyforan on Sunday.

In fact the final margin of four points flatters Tremane as they scored two goals and a point in the last five minutes of play to put a respectable look on the scoreline from their point of view.

It was an excellent display from Ronan O’Meara’s side who took full advantage of the conditions in the opening half before maintaining their advantage with a strong second-half showing.

The Gaels had the advantage of the strong wind in the opening half and were in charge for most of the proceedings. Their half-forward line of Ryan Conlon, Finn Killion and Richard Walsh was outstanding, this trio scoring all but one of their side’s 12 ﬁrsthalf points.

The town team led by 0-4 to 0-2 by the 11th minute but were rocked back on their heels a minute later when Tremane attacker Conor Kavanagh (their best player) made a great run into the heart of the Gaels defence. He was hooked, but Jack Naughton followed up to pull ﬁrst time to the Gaels net. It was the only time in the game that the Gaels were behind.

Richard Walsh equalised a minute after that goal and the Gaels then knocked over ﬁve more points without reply, all

from the stick of Finn Killion (three frees). By half-time, the Gaels led by 0-12 to 1-3.

The expected Tremane revival in the second half never materialised. Conor Kavanagh and Jack Naughton threatened, but the Gaels always had an answer, and Killion was magniﬁcent from play and the placed ball. Sub Mark Purcell was having a big impact on proceedings too. The dual player scored a ﬁne goal in the 54th minute, opening up an eight-point gap.

With four minutes to go the Gaels led by 1-17 to 1-8 and were coasting. They then effectively sat back to admire their handiwork, and Tre-

mane made a late charge.

In the 27th minute, Sub Dylan Keaveney bundled the ball into the net following a defensive mix-up, and a minute later a long delivery from Micheal Kellehan went all the way to the Gaels’ net to leave just three in the match.

Just when it might have become nervy for O’Meara’s men, late points from Richard Walsh and a free converted by goalkeeper Brendan Quinn saw the Gaels over the line and into the semi-ﬁnals.

All credit to Ronan O’Meara, his backroom team and the players on a great achievement thus far. They will go into the semi-ﬁnal against defending

champions Four Roads as underdogs – and any further positive dividend for them will be a bonus.

Roscommon Gaels: Brendan Quinn (0-1, free); Fintan Doyle, Tim Gilmore, Chris Duignan; Kevin Glynn, James Connolly, David Hough; Orin Walsh, Aodha Hession; Richard Walsh (0-4), Finn Killion (0-10, 6 frees), Ryan Conlon (0-1, s/l); Dylan Hanley (0-2), Liam Naughton (0-1), Dean Conlon. Subs: Mark Purcell (1-0) for D Conlon (25), Conor Grogan for Hough (37), Barry Mullen for Duignan (50), Luke Clogher for Doyle (58), Gerry Clogher for Gilmore (63).

Tremane: Kevin Kellehan;

Cian O’Brien, Mossy Tiernan, Cathal Brennan; Kevin Brennan, Peter Kellehan, Michael Kellehan (1-0); Aaron Flaherty, Sean Mahony (01); Liam Murray (0-2), Niall Keenan, Conor Kavanagh (0-2); Darren Gately, Cormac Feeley, Jack Naughton (1-4, 4 frees). Subs: Niall Brennan for Feeley (h/t), Dylan Keaveney (1-0) for Gately (50), Padraig Brennan for O’Brien (55), Cormac Feeley for N Brennan (59).

Referee: Johnny Cahill.

Drama as late goals propel Athleague into last four

Paddy Fallon was in fantastic form from frees and play, and Kieran Farrell’s men were looking good as they led by 0-14 to 0-12 going into injury-time. But there was big drama to come.

First, Niall Connolly’s long-range free dropped into the Oran net.

Then, with the four minutes of added time almost played, Aengus Lyons drove home another goal for Athleague to leave the Oran men broken-hearted.

Athleague will now face St Dominic’s in the semi-ﬁnal. Final score: Athleague 2-12 Oran 0-16.

Man of the Match Finn Killion (Roscommon Gaels)

We meet again! Action from the clash between Roscommon Gaels and Four Roads this summer (featuring David Hough and Liam Og Coyle). Their impressive win over Tremane last Sunday means Roscommon Gaels have quali ed for a Roscommon Senior Hurling semi- nal against defending champions Four Roads. File photo: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Extra Kilbeggan meeting on Wednesday next

Horses for Courses

Racing this week begins this afternoon (Thursday) in Proudstown Park, Navan with a ﬂat card starting at 2.30 pm.

Tomorrow evening there is racing on the level at Down Royal with the ﬁrst at 4.05 pm and over the jumps at Wexford, off at 3.20 pm.

Saturday evening sees racing at headquarters (the Curragh) at 1.45 pm, featuring the Cambridgeshire backed up with three Group 3 races.

Sunday’s fare is on at Tipperary on the ﬂat stalls opening at 2.30 pm featuring the Group 3 Fairy Bridge Stakes. There is racing on the level at Roscommon on Monday evening, away at 4.45 pm.

Please note that Kilbeggan have an extra afternoon meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 4th of September with an expected 1.45 pm start (not listed on irishracing. com).

Review

Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore made it four wins at York on

by Tom Red

Thursday when Content won the Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks to add to their ﬁrst day treble. The Galileo ﬁlly turned the tables on Ralph Beckett’s You Got To Me who beat her in the Irish Oaks. The winner was Galileo’s 100th individual Group 1 winning horse and O’Brien’s 9th winner of the race. Moore made it 5 on Richard Hannon’s Angel Hunter in the Nursery Handicap.

On Friday, the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes was won by Archie Watson’s Bradsell at 3/1 with Hollie Doyle in the plate. Vauban, trained by Willie Mullins won the Group 2 Lonsdale Cup over 2m ½f under William Buick and will probably head to Australia for the Melbourne Cup.

On Saturday Henry de Bromhead’s Magical Zoe won the Ebor Handicap over 1m 6f with Billy Lee aboard and looks to have booked a trip down under where she has earned a free entry for winning this race. In the Group 2 City Of York Stakes Irish champion jockey Colin

Keane rode the winner, Breege, for Yorkshire-based John and Sean Quinn at 33/1.

O’Brien and Moore continued their successful run at the Curragh on Saturday winning both Group 2 races with Henri Matisse, 5/6, in the Futurity Stakes and Bedtime Story, 1/16, in the Debutante Stakes. They also won the opening 7f maiden with Ofﬁcer, 7/4, and completed a 4-timer with Fighter, 6/1, in the 1m 2f maiden. The accumulator, the only rides Moore had at the meeting, paid 36.5/1, a healthy return for those who follow O’Brien and Moore.

Roscommon on Monday Racing at Lenabane next Monday evening starts with the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race over 7f for 2-Y-Os with 30 entered. The second race, the Elphin Handicap for 3-Y-Os and upwards over the same distance has 67 entries, the largest entry of the day.

The ﬁnal race over the minimum distance is the RoscommonRacecourse.ie handicap for 3-Y-Os and upwards with 20 possibles. The Lecarrow Race over 1m 2f is a conditions race for 3-Y-Os and upwards with 10 entries.

The ﬁnal three races are over

Olivia stars in GB and Ireland win

 SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s young golﬁng star Olivia Costello is in the news again as she was an integral part of the Great Britain and Ireland team who defeated Europe in the Junior Vagliano Trophy at the West Lancashire course last weekend.

It was the ﬁrst time in the history of the competition that the Great Britain and Ireland team had won the trophy.

In her foursomes match Olivia and her part-

Short putts

BOYLE

INTERCLUBS: Our Jack O’Sullivan team have now knocked three clubs out of the competition, with their latest victory being over Strandhill Golf Club. It was a very strong performance by the team overall. Boyle play Tubbercurry in the next round in the coming weeks.

Our Cecil Ewing team also played well in their second round match and brought their opponents to a ‘sudden death’ play-off, but it was not Boyle’s day.

RESULTS – MEN’S STABLEFORD (11/8/24): 1st was Jim Callery with 35 pts, 2nd was Michael Simon with 34 pts, and 3rd was Pat Conroy with 33 pts.

FIXTURES: The men’s Thursday evening competitions continue. Next Sunday’s men’s competition is the Drumderrig Cup.

BOYLE GOLF CLUB FUN RUN: A 5k fun

ner Charlotte Naughton halved with their European opponents, then later in the day Olivia beat the European number one player Louise Uma Landgraf by 4 and 3 to contribute one and a half points to her team’s 8-7 win.

There was further Roscommon interest in the historic win as Deirdre Walsh (formerly Deirdre Mahon from Roscommon Town) was the team manager.

Meanwhile, Olivia Costello plays in the KPMG Irish Women’s Open this week at Carton House, beginning today (Thursday).

1m 4f and start with a 30 possible runner Racing Here Again

On September 30th Maiden followed by The Oran Handicap with 30 runners, both for 3-Y-Os and upwards.

The ﬁnal race is the Roscommon Racecourse On Facebook handicap for 3-Y-Os only with 30 entries. The card is well supported by the top Irish trainers with entries from Aidan O’Brien and son Joseph, Dermot Weld, Jessica Harrington, Jim Bolger, Kevin Prendergast, etc. Racing News

On Saturday, the 31st of August

the Curragh Racecourse run the Pat Smullen Charity Race Day in aid of Cancer Trials Ireland featuring a host of activities to raise funds for Cancer Trials Ireland, the leading cancer research trials organisation in Ireland.

The charity showpiece of the day is the Pat Smullen Cancer Trials Ireland Charity Race supported by the Breeze-Up Consigners Association with 20 riders taking part, raising a minimum of €3,000 each for the charity.

The race will be run on the famous 12-furlong Dubai Duty

Free Irish Derby course after the 7th race at approx. 5.45 pm. Members of Pat’s family hope to ride in the race – his daughter Hannah, who was 3rd last year, and son Paddy who will be having his ﬁrst ride in public.

Competition Time

Winners of tickets to Roscommon on Monday are Patricia Callaghan, Castlerea, Jacinta O’Boyle, Longford, and John Egan, Ballinlough, who all knew that Michael Finneran is the manager at Roscommon. Hope you all enjoy the day.

To win tickets for the ﬁnal meeting of the year at Kilbeggan on the 6th of September please let us know how many winners did Aidan O’Brien train and Ryan Moore ride at the Curragh last Saturday?

Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm on the 4th of September and as always do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact with all competition entries. As usual all tickets will have to be collected in the ofﬁce in Abbey Street.

run/walk will be taking place at Boyle Golf Club on Sunday, September 8th, at 11 am. Please text 087 2029064 if planning to attend (to help us get an idea of numbers).

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

Congratulations to Patrick Martin on winning the Faldo Series Junior Tour at Glasson Golf Club. Patrick claimed the recent win after three superb rounds of golf in very tough conditions. Patrick picks up WAGR points and qualiﬁes for the Faldo Series Final in Dubai. Well done Patrick from all in Carrick Golf Club.

The club would like to thank Francis Cryan from Cryan’s Hotel for their very generous sponsorship of last weekend’s competition, which was the ﬁfth qualiﬁer in the OBN Series. Congrats to overall winner Andy Connellan with an excellent score of 38 pts, as well as Division 1 winner Niall Roche (35 pts), Gross winner Dylan Beirne (32 pts), and Division 2 winner Shamzuri Hanifa (37 pts).

Congrats also to our Connacht Shield team on a brilliant 3-1 win against Sligo Golf Club in the second round of the Connacht Shield last Sunday. The team comprised Captain Pat King, John Coffey and Tom McGuinness, David McDermott and Paul Kelleher, Aaron Gibney and Damien Quigley, Niall Loftus and Marc McDermott, and re-

serves Paul Roche and Ciaran Curley. Good luck to the captain and team against Swinford in the Connacht quarter-ﬁnal.

Congrats to our Cecil Ewing team who had an excellent win over Boyle. The team comprised Captain John Coffey, Damien Duignan and Cathal Dowd, Charlie Farrell and Jimmy Deane, Colm and Declan Loftus, and Martin Talbot and Enda McDermott. Best of luck in the next round on September 1st

The Ladies Club would like to thank Lunney’s Service Station for their generous sponsorship of their recent competition. 1st was Lisa Casey (38 pts), 2nd was Mary King (36 pts), and Gross winner was Ann Keenan (16 pts). Congrats to all.

As of August 1st, this is the Ladies Nett Golfer of the Year order: 1st Phil Emmett (215 pts), 2nd Phil McWeeney (196 pts), 3rd Teresa Duignan (179 pts), 4th Ann Keenan (172 pts), and 5th Dolores Mulvey (168 pts).

As of August 1st, this is the Ladies Gross Golfer of the Year order: 1st Ann Keenan (280 pts), 2nd Phil Emmett (251 pts), 3rd Dolores Mulvey (204 pts), 4th Phil McWeeney (198 pts), and 5th Carmel Stritch (184 pts).

The Ladies silver medal standing are as follows: 1st Phil Emmett (42 pts), 2nd Siobhan Talbot (18 pts), and 3rd Geraldine Farry (15 pts). The Ladies Bronze Medal standings are as follows: 1st Jenny

Bruen (81 pts), 2nd Frances Molloy (77 pts), and 3rd Dolores Mulvey (73 pts).

The standings for Gents Nett Golfer of the Year are as follows: 1st Cathal Dowd (67 pts), 2nd John Coffey (52 pts), 3rd John Hardiman (51 pts), 4th Niall Loftus (43 pts), and 5th Jim King (42 pts).

The standings for Gents Gross Golfer of the Year are as follows: 1st David McDermott (86 pts), 2nd Paul Roche (54 pts), 3rd Niall Loftus (34 pts), 4th John Coffey (32 pts), and 5th Gordon Kavanagh (28 pts).

ROSCOMMON

Massive congratulations to Olivia Costello who was part of the GB&I team that won the Junior Vagliano trophy (8-7). They are the ﬁrst GB&I team to ever win the trophy. Olivia contributed a hugely important 1.5 points to the cause. She will also play in the KPMG Irish Open starting on 29th of August (today) in Carton House. Best of luck to our Men’s Senior Cup and Ladies Senior Foursomes teams and management who are playing in the AIG All-Ireland ﬁnals in Carlow (28th-31st August).

Congratulations to Billy Donnelly (40 pts) and Marina Cribbon (71 pts), winners of the Abbey Hotel sponsored Men’s and Ladies 18-hole competition.

The Great Britain and Ireland team, including Roscommon’s Olivia Costello, won the Junior Vagliano Trophy at the West Lancashire course last weekend.

Content and Ryan Moore win the Yorkshire Oaks for Ballydoyle.

Tully wins world doubles title

SUCCESS FOR LOCALS AT WORLD WALLBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

St Coman’s Fiona Tully secured a remarkable double last week, winning gold and silver medals at the highly-competitive 2024 World Wallball Championships in Limerick, which saw several successes for local competitors this year.

The Roscommon handballer won silver in the Ladies’ Senior Open Singles category, losing out on the top spot to Limerick’s Martina McMahon after a hardfought battle. However, Fiona was able to go one step further in the doubles decider, bringing home the gold alongside Kilkenny’s Ciara Mahon after facing some tough opposition.

Tully’s doubles prospects had actually got off to a rocky start, with original partner, Cork’s Catriona Casey, suffered an injury during her singles quarterﬁnal that prevented her from being able to compete. Luckily, Tully was able to ﬁnd a new partner

in Kilkenny’s Ciara Mahon, who was heading home after losing out in the singles to Tyrone’s Eilise McCrory.

Just a few short hours after pairing up, the duo were heading into their quarterﬁnal ﬁxture. And despite the last-minute team-up, they proved to be a formidable pairing, powering their way through the competition to win gold.

Tully’s success in last week’s World Wallball Championships comes off the back of her winning the Irish Wallball Nationals last year.

This year’s World Wallball Championships saw great success stories for other Roscommon handballers too, with wins for Kilglass’s Alanna Coggeran and Cáitlin Cashin. Coggeran partnered up with Team Ireland’s 19 and Under representative, Ava Sweeney, and the pair battled it out in the 19 and

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

Champions

Player Proﬁle

Name: Shay Molloy

Team: U-11s

Position: Right-wing

Three words that describe me:

Energetic, fun, kind

Skill strength: Attacking

Skill weakness: Heading

Favourite team: Liverpool

Favourite player: Luis Diaz

Favourite Irish player: Evan Ferguson

Best stadium in the world: An eld

Messi or Ronaldo or neither: Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or neither: PlayStation

Favourite food: Pizza

Favourite lm: Elf

Favourite song: A Bar Song (Tipsy)

Favourite book: The Twits by Roald Dahl

What makes me happy: Playing sport and family

Person I admire the most: Messi

Why I play soccer: Because I love it

Hopes for the season: To win the league

Well done to our boys U-14 Town 2 team who have won the league title with two matches remaining. They are a young team who play lovely football. Congratulations to the players and their coaches Dion, Mark and Bobby.

Finals

Best wishes to our girls U-12 and U-18 teams who are in ﬁnals this weekend. The 12s play on Saturday while the 18s play on Sunday. Enjoy the experience girls.

League action

The league schedule is now entering its closing stages.

Monday: Our Town 1 U-14 boys team welcomed Castlerea while Town 3 were away to Castlerea 2. Tuesday: Town 1 boys 12s were away to Glen Celtic. Town 2 hosted St John’s.

Wednesday: Our U-9 girls were at home to Glen Celtic.

Thursday: This evening, our Town 1 U-16 boys team are in Lecarrow

Under Doubles competition, making it all the way to the ﬁnal to secure silver medals.

Meanwhile, Cáitlin

In association with the

while Town 2 travel to Kilkerrin. Our U-18 girls are at home to Shiven Rovers.

Friday: Our three boys U-11 Europa League teams are in action. Town 1 are away to Skyvalley. Town 2 are away to Castlerea 2. Town 3 host Castlerea 1.

Sunday: At U-9 level, our Town 1 boys are at home to Glen Celtic. Town 2 welcome Shiven Rovers. Town 3 travel to Ballinlough. Our 9s girls are at home to Shiven Rovers.

Wise Words

“A commitment can only be felt when it oversteps convenience” –Ravi Shankar

Supporting our sponsors Support them as they support us: Roscommon Tyre Centre, Dermot Hughes Cars, Kreative Salon Supplies, Warm N Cosy Homes, Tulsk Fuels, Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon People.

Our Community. Our Children. Our Club.

Cashin won the 13 and Under Plate Doubles ﬁnal with her doubles partner from Mullingar Handball Club.

Focus now turns to the 2024 World

which will take place from October 26th to November 3rd

Pictured are the Town 1 U-14 Boys Team.

Pictured are the Town U-9 Girls Team.

Kilglass’s Cáitlin Cashin pictured with her playing partner and GAA Handball President Conor McDonnell (centre) after winning the 13 and Under Plate Doubles nal at last week’s World Wallball Championships in Limerick.

Fiona Tully of St Coman’s (right) pictured with her doubles partner Ciara Mahon and GAA Handball President Conor McDonnell, after winning gold in the 2024 World Wallball Championships in Limerick last week. Tully also secured a silver medal in the singles competition.

4-Wall Championships,

Kilglass’s Alanna Coggeran (second from right) pictured with her playing partner Ava Sweeney (right), GAA Handball President Conor McDonnell, and fellow competitors, after winning silver in the 19 and Under Doubles competition at the 2024 World Wallball Championships in Limerick last week.

THE GAIN LINE

Season starts for Creggs

Creggs RFC’s new season has commenced and training is progressing well. Check out our social media for up to date information. Last weekend we had representatives playing for Connacht at Boys U-19 and Girls U-18 and senior women’s level.

We congratulate Leo Anic (U19s), U-18 team captain Siofra, Isabelle, Ciara and Mia at Girls U-18 and Sarah Purcell on making her debut for Connacht following on from teammate Jemina Adams Verling who played against Ulster a week earlier. They were joined by ex-Creggs player Roisin Maher. Well done to all. While the women’s games took place in Galway, the boys’

matches were played at Creggs RFC grounds on Saturday (v Leinster). A big crowd attended as support for both the U-18s and U-19s, making it an enjoyable day’s rugby. While the Girls’ U-18s won against Munster (their 2nd win in the series) the boys’ teams and women’s team both lost on this occasion.

FIXTURES: Creggs women’s team have their ﬁrst competitive game this Sunday at 1.30 pm in the Invitational Cup v OLBC in Creggs. Please support our teams.

LOTTO: Our club lotto jackpot was not won. It now stands at €2600 this Sunday. Please join to support the club. The lucky dip winner was Marie Cormican.

Buccaneers aim to bounce back after opening day loss

Buccaneers head west on Saturday afternoon for the second round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League. They square up to Galway Corinthians at Corinthian Park where the action kicks off at 5 pm.

Corinthians, who won pro-

motion to AIL Division 2A, won a tight Galway derby 1310 at Crowley Park last weekend. This will be another acid test for the midlanders who are in restructuring mode. If they can build on the display against Sligo (see below), it should be another entertaining and close contest.

Buccaneers 17 Sligo 21: A youthful Buccaneers side pushed Sligo all the way in the opening round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League played in front of a good attendance under the Dubarry Park ﬂoodlights on

Friday night. The visitors, ﬁelding a more settled and seasoned squad, edged the hosts 21-17 after a lively and entertaining contest.

30th anniversary: Buccaneers will be playing for the 30th year in the All-Ireland League this season. The club will celebrate that landmark anniversary on the opening day of the AIL when newly-promoted Instonians visit Dubarry Park for a Division 2A match on Saturday, September 21st. Contact the club’s Administrator Geraldine at 086 1732711 for details.

Underage training: Training and coaching for youths teams is gradually gearing up and includes free introductory sessions for boys aged 6 to 12 years old on Mondays from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm on September 9th, 16th and 23rd. For further information, contact Charlie on 087 2221764 or Declan on 085 1407977. See www.buccaneersrfc.com Congrat Philip: Last week

Round Robin wins for Sandra and David

Last Friday night saw an open Round Robin event being held in The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon Town, with both Ladies’ and Men’s competitions on the night.

In the Ladies event, Breanne Concannon took highest checkout with a 79 finish. The final was contested by Barbara Victory and Sandra Cronolly. Barbara had taken a 2-0 semifinal win over Trisha Duarte, while Sandra had edged out Rachel McKeon on a 2-0 scoreline to book her place in the final.

A tightly contested ﬁnal saw Sandra take the win on the ﬁrst night of competitive Ladies darts for this new season. Hard luck to Barbara and well done to Sandra.

In the open men’s event some great darts led to a final between David Concannon and Ciaran Hickey. David had edged out Kieran Mullen in the quarter-finals (2-1), before a hard-fought 2-1 semi-final win against Thomas Concannon. Ciaran had taken a 2-0 win over Mark Concannon in the quarters, before a hard-fought 2-1 win in the semis over Jason Owens.

Buccs’ U-17 player Philip Finnan is also a promising athlete.

Philip Finnan represented Team Ireland for the first time in an athletics meeting, in Scotland. Competing in the long jump, he celebrated his first green vest by winning gold with a final leap of 6.63 metres at Grangemouth Stadium, Falkirk. Philip is a versatile and talented all-round sportsman, a key member of Buccs’ U-17 squad for the coming season, and also adept at Touch Rugby. Congrats Philip and best of luck in your future sporting endeavours.

The ﬁnal was a well contested affair, with great darts from both players. On the night it was David who ran out a 2-0 winner, the highlight being an 18-dart second leg which included scores of 131 and 140. Hickey kept in contention with some ﬁne scoring. Well done to David, and hard luck to Ciaran.

Thanks to all the players who took part and helped create such a high standard. Thanks also to The Hollywood Bar management and staff for the hospitality shown to all on the night.

Are you interested in playing darts?

For those interested in playing darts within the county, don’t forget our AGM is this Friday, 30th of August in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon (8.30 pm).

If any publican wishes to enter a team in our league or a group of players wish to play this is the perfect opportunity to see what’s involved. Check the Roscommon County Darts Facebook page for further details.

Runner-up Barbara Victory with winner Sandra Cronolly.

Runner-up Ciaran Hickey with winner David Concannon.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Last weekend: Orrin Burgess of Buccaneers retains possession despite the tackle of Sligo captain Matthew Earley.

Creggs girls pictured on Connacht U-18 duty v Munster.

Leo Anic played for Connacht U-19s v Leinster. Connacht played Leinster in the men’s U-19 Interprovincial Championship (round 2) in Creggs last Saturday. Pictured at the game were Michael, Jack and Jamal Tierney with Reese Ward. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

The glory, drama and heartbreak of a sporting weekend

A little bit out of the blue, there came along quite a fascinating sporting weekend in Roscommon…

The notable achievements, and the drama, came thick and fast. St Coman’s handballer Fiona Tully won gold and silver at the World Championships.

It was sensational stuff from Tully, who won gold in the Senior Open doubles alongside Kilkenny’s Ciara Mahon, and silver in the singles, where she was denied gold by Martina McMahon (Limerick).

Then along came young golﬁng star Olivia Costello, adding another great chapter to her ongoing success story. The Roscommon Golf Club star was a member of the Great Britain and Ireland team that won the Junior Vagliano Cup in West Lancashire, defeating the Rest of Europe, with Costello contributing a very signiﬁcant one and a half points in her team’s 8-7 win.

On the GAA ﬁelds, there was drama too. On Saturday, Roscommon Masters continued their very impressive run in the top tier this season, Anthony Carroll’s team producing an excellent performance to defeat favourites Kerry in the All-Ireland semi-ﬁnal.

Following their 1-5 to 0-7 win over the Kingdom in Clare, Roscommon now advance to the All-Ireland ﬁnal and the formidable challenge of taking on four-in-a-row chasing Tyrone. The Ulster side will obviously be favourites, but Roscommon have put a great run together this season and have everything to play for in the ﬁnal,

which will be played on Saturday, September 14th (venue to be conﬁrmed).

Perhaps the greatest sporting drama of last weekend (with a Roscommon dimension) came on Sunday in Creggs, where Athleague senior hurlers pulled off a great escape against Oran, thus leapfrogging their opponents to advance to the county semi-ﬁnals.

Oran led by two points entering time added on, but Athleague struck with two last-gasp goals, Niall Connolly’s long-range free ﬁnding the net before Aengus Lyons completed the comeback in the fourth minute of injury-time.

The other Roscommon SHC quarter-ﬁnal played that same day was in Ballyforan, and this too was very noteworthy, as Roscommon Gaels built on their growing momentum in this code by defying tradition and securing a fully deserved semi-ﬁnal spot.

The Gaels defeated Tremane by 1-19 to 3-9, proof for any remaining doubters that manager Ronan O’Meara is overseeing a peaceful revolution!

GAA intercounty managerial merry-go-round

The other big theme of the sporting weekend was the latest twists in the ongoing GAA managerial merry-go-round.

I wasn’t surprised that the brief Colm O’Rourke era in Meath came to an end. I feel a little sorry for the great chieftain, a true legend of the game. It was an incredibly strange appointment in the ﬁrst place, sentiment over logic I would respectfully suggest.

Yes, I am taking the view that veteran stars like the hugely respected O’Rourke are almost certainly not best equipped to manage in the modern game. Maybe I’m wrong, but the evidence is strong. There was a real naivety about some of Meath’s approach under O’Rourke, admirable as his commitment to old-style open football was. In truth, he was doomed!

Brian Dooher and Feargal Logan leaving Tyrone was no great shock either. As it turns out, Roscommon had a role in their downfall. Tyrone’s championship exit this year, a tame one at the hands (and feet) of Davy Burke’s team, was arguably the ﬁnal straw after a couple of poor seasons for the

‘Red Hand’. Of course their unlikely All-Ireland success in 2021 means the outgoing joint managers have their place in folklore.

More locally, there has been lots of activity on the management front. Most observers were surprised at the appointment of Shane Curran as Carlow senior manager. The former Castlerea, St Brigid’s and Roscommon star is one of the most passionate ﬁgures in the game. It’s an exciting appointment for him; we wish Shane well.

Ballaghaderreen man Mike Solan, a former AllIreland U-21 winning manager with Mayo, is to become the new manager of the Longford senior team. And of course the great Mickey Harte has joined Offaly, in a joint manager role with incumbent Declan Kelly.

Meanwhile, Noel Dunning has stepped down as manager of Roscommon U-20s. He oversaw a great Connacht final win earlier this year before Roscommon were defeated in the All-Ireland semi-final by Tyrone. Noel’s shoes/boots won’t be easily filled.

This follows James Duignan’s recent announcement that he does not wish to be reconsidered for the position of manager of the Roscommon U-17 team, a role he had for the last three years.

Like Noel Dunning, James Duignan made a signiﬁcant, positive contribution. Roscommon football will beneﬁt both now and in the coming years from their development of some of our brightest young prospects.

Sven will be missed

Like millions of football fans all over the world, I was saddened to hear of the death of former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, which was conﬁrmed by his family on Monday.

A charismatic, thoughtful man, he had major coaching success at club level, winning a total of 18 trophies with various teams in his native Sweden, Portugal and Italy. That remarkable haul includes a couple of European trophies.

In his high proﬁle tenure as England manager, Eriksson brought the team to the quarter-ﬁnals of three major tournaments.

When Sven was appointed as England’s ﬁrst overseas manager in 2001, we all sat up and took notice. It all seemed quite exotic… and it was.

Four Roads are U-21 champions…

Four Roads Hurling Club recently won the Roscommon County U-21 Hurling ﬁnal, defeating Athleague/Tremane/Oran in Ballyforan by 1-21 to 2-16.

The tributes to Sven from former players, fellow managers, pundits and fans have been extremely warm and heartfelt. He was a much-loved ﬁgure in the game, and will be fondly remembered.

‘Your fans are proper fans’ – joys of lower leagues

The odd browse through fans’ forums/comments sections on websites in the English soccer world can be interesting and entertaining (and admittedly often pointless/frustrating too!).

Last Saturday, Barrow FC defeated Port Vale 4-0 in League Two of the Football League (yes, the old Fourth Division).

I liked this post from a Port Vale fan, the tone of which captures why I love English football’s working class culture (mostly still only perceptible at lower level these days) and the passion of the grassroots supporters.

‘Other than the result and our second half performance can I just say it’s a joy to travel to Barrow. Your ground’s how I remember grounds to be ‘when I were a lad’. Your fans are proper fans like our own, travel all over the place to watch their team with very little reward. And you’ve got the cheapest Wetherspoons I’ve ever been in! All the very best for the rest of the season. You deserve it’.

The late Sven-Goran Eriksson. May he rest in peace.

Four Roads goalkeeper Oisin Finneran pictured with his proud dad Ollie after his team won the Roscommon U-21 hurling nal recently.

Four Roads captain Mikey Lohan receives the cup from Hurling County Board secretary Anne Connaughton after his team won the Roscommon U-21 hurling nal.

SportsPeople

Clann, St Brigid’s and St Dominic’s in last four

< KEVIN EGAN

Clann na nGael will meet St Dominic’s in one of the two Dermot Hughes Cars Roscommon LGFA SFC semi-ﬁnals, while the identity of St Brigid’s’ opponents is all that is left to be decided, with four round robin games out of 21 still to play.

Éire Óg will be involved in two of those four games, and they are in control of their own destiny after they picked up a 0-7 each draw with Boyle, who are now hanging on by a thread. It looked like the champions were on the cusp of their exit at half-time in Loughglynn, when Rebecca Finan’s ﬁve-point haul had the home side 0-6 to 0-3 in front. But with Caoimhe Cregg to the fore at centre-back, Boyle hung in there, ultimately salvaging a share of the spoils through a stoppage time Kate Harrington free.

Shannon Gaels had a strong ﬁnish in their clash with Clann na nGael at Johnstown too, but it was to no avail as Kayleigh Dunning’s hat-trick, as well as a strong scoring display from Róise Lennon and a goal from a Ruth Finlass free, meant that Clann were 17 points in front at one stage.

Sorcha Bruen and Orla Mullaney found the net to leave the final score much more balanced at 5-11 to 3-7, but it still means that it would take a remarkable series of results for Shannon Gaels to somehow sneak ahead of Boyle and Éire Óg into the final semifinal spot.

Kilbride, who still have to play both Shannon Gaels and Éire Óg, remain rooted to the bottom of the table after St Brigid’s easily accounted for the midRoscommon side at Kiltoom, 4-10 to 0-4.

Alison Nugent, Áine O’Brien, Sarah O’Rourke and Marian Nolan were the goalscorers for the championship favourites, who were rocked by the news that Kate Nolan’s injury was conﬁrmed as a season-ending ACL rupture.

INTERMEDIATE

In the Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant IFC, it’s just as clear who are at the top of the queue for championship glory, with one round of group games still to be played.

St Ciarán’s didn’t let poor conditions deter them in their trip to Frenchpark, where Laura Fleming got both goals in a 2-12 to 0-2 win for last year’s ﬁnalists over Western Gaels. With one game to go, against St Croan’s, the Galwayborder club are assured of top spot in the group, but St Barry’s are coming up on the rails with a storming run after they posted a 6-616 to 0-5 win over St Croan’s.

A point after just 20 seconds from Orla

Tighe set the tone for a comfortable home win in Tarmonbarry. After the two sides exchanged frees, a slick team move resulted in Shannon McGuinness scoring the game’s opening goal, and that was quickly followed by an Emer Callaghan penalty.

Further goals from Tighe, Grace Cox, McGuinness and Emer Callaghan moved St Barry’s into second place in the table, in advance of their penultimate game against Kilmore/Kilglass next week.

It was another tough week for the North Roscommon combination, who saw Niamh Fleming (ﬁve), Shannon Hibbitt (two) and Joanne Ronan rack up the goals in an 8-11 to 1-6 win for Michael Glaveys in Kilglass on Friday evening.

JUNIOR

As has been the case all summer, Group One of the Leydon Brothers JFC has been sensational in terms of drama and excitement, and it was more of the same at the weekend, where Oran picked up a 2-12 to 3-8 win over Northern Harps that keeps their championship dreams alive.

Northern Harps have made a habit of slow starts this year but this time they ﬂipped that script, with Ciara Cunningham getting on the mark with two early goals from Ciara Cunningham and excellent points from Lauren Shanagher and Shauna McGrath.

Niamh Walsh’s goal before half-time was a life-saver for Oran, reducing the

interval lead to four points, and with the introduction of Hazel Kelly and Anna Hussey, they were a transformed side. Oran knew it was now or never, door-die. Walsh, Gráinne Whyte, Becky Cassidy and Orla Connolly popped points over, Becky Cassidy punished a poor kickout only for Ciara Cunningham’s hat-trick goal to cancel that out, and while Northern Harps sent a free off the post that would have levelled the game, incredible defensive work from Ciara Owens, Mella Lawless, Clara Staunton and Erin McDermott was enough to secure the win.

Both those teams will now play quarter-ﬁnals, while Pádraig Pearses have topped the group and Castlerea St Kevin’s miss out on the back of Pearses’ 3-11 to 3-7 win in Woodmount. The game was in the balance at halftime at 2-5 each, but goalkeeper Áine Keenan had kept wind-assisted Castlerea in the game with two ﬁne saves, and Pearses were able to use the wind to preserve their unbeaten record after half-time.

Michaela Keogh’s point and Lorraine Kenny’s goal early in the second half helped Pearses put distance between the teams, but Aoife O’Rourke’s goal close to the end made it a nervy ﬁnish for the South Roscommon side.

In the other group, Four Roads got two early goals and then held out against the wind to trail by 2-9 to 2-4 at half-time in their home game against Roscommon Gaels, before cutting loose to win by 9-9 to 2-13 at the end.

There was also action in the Junior C championship, with St Michael’s/St Ronan’s securing a 4-11 to 1-6 win over St Dominic’s at Cootehall.

Please see http://roscommonlgfa.ie/ﬁxtures-2024 for all updated ﬁxtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank Dermot Hughes Cars, Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant, and Leydon Brothers for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county.

Pictured is the St Michael’s/St Ronan’s Junior C team (pictured last weekend).

Boyle’s Maeve Brogan surrounded by Éire Óg players during Sunday’s Senior Championship match in Loughglynn.

Picture: Bernie O’Farrell.

Club championships to heat up!

Club Championship Preview

< SEAMUS DUKE

The identity of the teams that will contest the play-off stages of this year’s club championships will be known after this weekend, as will the identity of the teams who will contest the relegation play-offs. There are interesting games down in every group.

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC (Group A)

Both games are on Friday night at 8 pm. Roscommon Gaels can secure top spot in the group if they overcome Tulsk in Tarmonbarry. They will be hoping that a truer reﬂection of their current status was the win against Castlerea, and not the drawn game against Oran, which was pretty pedestrian.

Tulsk could still end up in the relegation play-offs if they lose here and Oran defeat Castlerea in the other match in the group. If the Gaels can throw off the shackles and play positive attacking football, they have the

players to win this encounter, but they will have to improve on their last outing.

The match between Oran and Castlerea St Kevin’s in Strokestown is deﬁnitely the ‘Game of the Weekend’. If Oran lose here they will be involved in the relegation play-off. If Castlerea draw or win they will progress.

The bottom line is that Oran must win to stay in the championship. They adopted a very defensive game plan against Roscommon Gaels – and it yielded a point from a draw – but surely Sean Staunton’s men will be a little more adventurous here. They will have to be. There won’t be much in it. I think Oran will just edge it.

Group B

Both games are on Friday night at 8 pm. Western Gaels look set for the relegation play-offs after two one-point losses. This time they face the hot favourites St Brigid’s in Lisnamult. Anything other than a comfortable win for the defending champions would be a shock here. I expect Anthony Cunningham’s side to win with a bit to spare.

Michael Glaveys got the win they wanted against Western Gaels while it’s the exact same

story for St Faithleach’s as the sides meet in Ballyforan. Both sides are already through. St

St Faithleach’s edge past Western Gaels

Hodson Bay Hotel SFC

Western Gaels suffered their second one-point loss in succession when they went down to St Faithleach’s in Ballyleague last Saturday (1-11 to 1-10). It was a very well contested match all through. Towards half-time St Faithleach’s went ahead by three points (0-6 to 0-3) with Diarmuid Murtagh contributing three of that tally.

However, Kevin Higgins and Rory Hester were performing well for the Frenchpark side, and by half-time there was only a point between the teams

as the home side led by 0-6 to 0-5.

Five minutes into the second half Jonathan Hussey scored a St Faithleach’s goal to give them a four-point lead. Eight minutes later the excellent Kevin Higgins scored a Western Gaels goal and from there to the ﬁnish it was nip and tuck.

The sides were level three times after that but late points from a Ciaráin Murtagh free and James Browne nudged St Faithleach’s ahead.

Rory Hester reduced the margin to one in injurytime but St Faithleach’s held on, and now Western Gaels face St Brigid’s in their ﬁnal group game needing a win to avoid the relegation play-offs.

Faithleach’s might just have the edge here.

Group C

Both of these games are on Saturday at 6 pm. St Dominic’s must win against Clann na nGael if they are to steer clear of the relegation play-offs. Clann have been impressive in their two wins so far and despite the game being in Knockcroghery they should prevail narrowly. However, they can expect ﬁerce resistance from the home side, who won’t go down without a ﬁght.

Padraig Pearses got back on the winning trail against St Dominic’s and they entertain Boyle this time around. This should be a cracking game with a number of talented players performing on both sides. With home advantage, Pearses are the better bet.

John Keane & Sons IFC

Group A

Both of the following games are on Sunday at 4.30 pm. Kilbride and Padraig Pearses clash in Knockcroghery. Both these sides have lost two games, so a win here will be vital. Pearses may well have the edge.

Shannon Gaels and Elphin will clash in Ballinameen and this is a battle to decide who tops the group. Both sides have been impressive so far. Elphin might just be the stronger outﬁt and are fancied to win by three or four points.

Group B

Without a win so far, St Croan’s badly need to reverse that trend when they face Éire Óg in Castlerea. Éire Óg have been going

along nicely and will naturally want to remain unbeaten. They should have enough to beat Malachy Gately’s side. There is a local derby in Lisnamult where Fuerty and Creggs meet. This is a very hard game to predict. I’ll sit on the fence and go for a draw. (Both these games are on Saturday at 5 pm).

Group C St Michael’s need to win to avoid the relegation play-offs. As such, their task is to beat Kilmore in Kilmore, which is never easily done. Kilmore have to be the fancy to prevail here.

Strokestown have looked very good so far and they should be able to make it three wins out of three when hosting St Brigid’s. (Both these games are on Saturday evening at 6 pm).

Roscommon Masters into All-Ireland ﬁnal

The Roscommon Masters footballers have qualified for the AllIreland final for the first time following a hard-earned one-point win against Kerry in Clarecastle, Co Clare last weekend (1-5 to 0-7).

(Last year, Roscommon made it to the Plate ﬁnal, losing in heartbreaking fashion to Mayo). That however was essentially the third tier of Masters football, whereas Roscommon are now competing at the very highest level.

Last Saturday’s game was played in very challenging conditions, with heavy rain and high winds. Anthony Carroll’s Roscommon were always in the hunt and they thoroughly deserved their win.

Roscommon played against the elements in the opening half during

which the crucial score was a wellworked goal from Ronan Cox of St Michael’s. It was indeed a vital score as it meant that Kerry only led by a point at the break, 0-6 to 1-2. Sean Ryan and Brian Higgins added points for the Rossies in the new half, Kerry scoring just one in the entire second period. When Ronan Cox put over what proved to be Roscommon’s last score, a point with 13 minutes to go, it was enough to secure a famous victory.

The Roscommon defence was magnificent in the closing stages as the westerners hung on to their narrow lead and progressed to the final. Roscommon will face Tyrone in the All-Ireland final on Saturday, September 14th (venue yet to be confirmed).

File photo: Roscommon Gaels’ Peter Gillooly with the ball as Michael Kelly of Castlerea St Kevin’s gives chase during a clash earlier in this season’s Roscommon SFC. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell