31 March 2023 Roscommon People

on…

Breakthrough on youth fixtures clash welcomed

A move by the Minor Board of the GAA to end an impasse that had arisen over youth sporting fixtures has been welcomed this week. It came after two weeks of growing public disquiet over a prospective fixtures clash between underage GAA and Roscommon & District Youth Soccer League games.

Parents, coaches, and young sportspeople across the county have welcomed the GAA Minor Board’s decision to propose a new fixtures schedule in order to avoid a clash with their soccer counterparts.

Following a meeting of the Minor Board on Monday night it was proposed that U-16 matches take place on Monday nights, U-14s on Tuesdays, and U-18s on Thursdays.

The proposal, which will have to be ratified by the senior GAA County Board, is welcome news for

local soccer clubs and dual players.

After the story was broken by the Roscommon People (issue dated 17/3/23), Roscommon GAA later issued a statement to this newspaper explaining that the clash came about due to a change to its grading structure.

The statement read: “We did not sit down to intentionally clash with other codes. This year our age grades have changed, which has created the difficulty. Our clubs voted to change from U-13, U-15 and U-17 to U-14, U-16 and U-18.

“Our U-18 players who are in their final year can now play both minor and adult football which also impacts on our fixtures.

“This leaves us with very little room around manoeuvring fixtures and it is simply impossible to create a fixtures programme that works around the schedule of countless other activities”.

Action from last Saturday’s U-12s’ National Cup quarter-final between Castlerea Celtic and Shamrock Rovers in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

With PAUL HEALY

Home Refurbishment Grant

I own a property that has been vacant for the past ten years. It is not derelict but needs lot of work to make it habitable. I heard about a grant I could possibly apply for, but I am not sure if I qualify for it. I would hope to rent out this property. Can I still qualify for the grant if I also own my own home and I rent out the property I renovate?

A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 towards the renovation of vacant or derelict properties was previously restricted to a property that was or would be the applicant’s home (principal private residence). The Croi Conaithe Refurbishment Scheme has now been extended to include properties which are made available for rent and not just owner-occupied from May 1, 2023.

I understand that grant rates will also be reviewed. At present, a grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residence previously. The grant is inclusive of the VAT cost of the works. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the grant of up to €30,000, at present a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available where the property is confirmed by the applicant to be derelict (i.e. structurally unsound and dangerous). In the case of such a top-up grant for a derelict property, an independent report prepared by an appropriately qualified professional (e.g. quantity surveyor, engineer etc.) must be submitted along with the application confirming that the property is derelict.

Under the rules of the scheme, a property will be considered to be vacant if it has been vacant and unoccupied for two years or more. Confirmation of vacancy must be validated and verified by the local authority prior to grant approval.

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

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Good or bad? It’s (not) quite straightforward!

March is almost over! That’s bad!

No, that’s good!

It’s not! March is a special month, ‘cos it signals the start of spring. The fact that it’s finished means the year is already a quarter over! It’s bad!

No! April means warmer weather and longer evenings. So it’s good!

Well the National Football League is over – that’s bad!

No! Roscommon had a very nice campaign, it’s done and dusted, and we’re gearing up for the championship. That’s good! Well, Enoch Burke is giving out yards to a poor judge as I write, now that’s bad! No, that’s keeping newspaper colour writers in jobs, and half the country entertained, that’s good!

(Editor: Well, we have to respect the court and we can’t…)

Well, Ireland lost to France the other night! That’s bad!

On the contrary, Ireland really put it up to the World Cup finalists. That’s good!

Brian Kerr wasn’t happy, and he knows his football. So it must be bad!

Nah, Brian Kerr just has a bee in his bonnet about Stephen Kenny! It made for entertaining TV. And that’s good!

Well we lost an hour’s sleep at the week-

Endangered Species

end, now that’s bad!

No, it means there’s more light to enjoy in the evenings. That’s good!

Well I can’t mow the lawn because of this rain we’ve been having – that’s bad!

Yeah, but with these longer evenings you’ll have more time to do it, when the time is right. That’s good!

Well, the final season of Succession has started, that’s bad…the fact that it’s the final season!

But it means you can catch up on all those other great series’ you haven’t had a chance to watch yet! That’s good!

Well, getting back to the GAA, crafty Galway beat Kerry and that denied the Rossies a place in the National League final. Surely that’s bad?

Nah, let Galway and Mayo fight it out, hopefully after extra-time. It gives our lads more time to prepare for a massive challenge in Castlebar. That’s good!

Well, Donald Trump hasn’t been arrested yet, that’s bad!

But the suspense is kind of captivating, that’s kind of good!

(They pause – for breath)

You know, you STILL haven’t negotiated a new contract for us with the Editor…that’s bad!

I had constructive talks with him the other day, that’s good!

I still think he wants Joe Brolly in. That’s obviously bad (for us)!

Brolly’s just launched a new podcast. He’s off the table. That’s good!

Speaking of podcasts, I heard Enoch Burke might be starting a daily one… Both: Oh no! THAT’S BAD!

It’s been a GOOD week for… ☺

Roscommon footballers, this after an easy win over beleaguered Donegal secured third place in the Allianz National Football League for Davy Burke’s team Sensational Scotland, shock 2-0 winners over Spain in a European Championships qualifying game on Tuesday night

A number of local restaurants and bars in County Roscommon, this after they were honoured in the Irish Restaurant Awards (see our business page, and online)

It’s been a BAD week for… ☹

Boxing star Kellie Harrington, who is on the back foot after a very awkward interview with Newstalk’s Off The Ball, the Olympic gold medallist responding to questioning about her position on immigration by suggesting the interviewer was trying to ‘hang’ her ‘out to dry’ –she eventually terminated the interview

PIC OF THE WEEK: Selfie-time! A member of the public taking a selfie with Circus Bear during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday.

Pic: Kieran Croghan

Cannabis worth €200,000 seized in Ballinlough

Two men have appeared in court following the discovery of a growhouse and the seizure of cannabis worth €200,000 in County Roscommon on Sunday afternoon.

Gardaí from the Roscommon/Longford Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search of a premises in Ballinlough on Sunday morning which led to the discovery of a growhouse. During the course of the

search, approximately 250 cannabis plants were seized with an estimated street value of €200,000.

Two men (aged in their 40s and 50s) were arrested and detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in Co. Roscommon.

Both men were charged and appeared at Mullingar District Court on Monday.

MMA World Champion supports local!

Danni McCormack of Relentless Martial Arts Mullingar, and a native of Roscommon, won a significant world title in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) earlier this month in Denver, Colorado and is the first ever Irish woman to achieve such a victory.

She defeated Brazil opponent, Valesca Machado who was the defending champion after five tough, five-minute rounds.

Danni is now the Invicta Strawweight Champion and this opens up massive possibilities for her, including a potential opportunity to fight in UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship).

“We are absolutely honoured to have our neighbour & newly crowned Invicta MMA World Champion pop into us to pick up her new car & show us the famous belt ...

This is a huge local success for such an inspiring woman. We would like to wish Danni even more success in the future from all the Gill family”.

Gardaí from the Roscommon/Longford Divisional Drugs Unit carried out a search of a premises in Ballinlough on Sunday morning which led to the discovery of a growhouse.

One week on, Danni reflects on historic world title

< DAN DOONER

Roscommon mixed martial artist Danni McCormack (Neilan) made history on Wednesday, March 15th when she became the first Irish winner of an Invicta world title. Fighting at strawweight, the Rathbrennan native recovered from two early knockdowns to defeat Brazilian fighter Valesca Machado by unanimous decision at Invicta FC 52 in Denver. This week, Danni (33) spoke to Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner about her historic victory in the all-female franchise…

DD: Congratulation Danni! Champion of the world, how does that feel?

DMcC: It feels amazing. I really feel like I’ve made it after the last eight years of being in the sport, working my way through the ranks, and having had a tough year last year. It just feels super to wake up every morning knowing I’m a world champion.

DD: Were you worried at any

stage in the first round, having been knocked down twice?

DMcC: I was worried when the referee said ‘Danni, you have to fight back!’ There was a worry that the fight would be stopped. But in terms of worried about being hurt or that I was going to lose, no I didn’t feel like that at all.

DD: What was going through your mind during that difficult first round?

DMcC: I’m just thinking about reacting and about staying in the fight. I never think about quitting or being hurt; I just think ‘dig deep’ and find a way to fight and improve your position.

DD: Remind us of your Roscommon roots. MMA is a bit different to what you had been doing…

DMcC: We were really centred around horses. I rode ponies from four or five years of age and that developed into hunting and showjumping and that developed into horse racing I didn’t really have a lot of girl friends back then…I was the only girl in my class in primary school. Back then I was hoping to achieve great things in the horse world and that competitiveness led me into a different sport when at the age of 25 I transitioned into MMA. I brought all those qualities I learned with

horses into MMA: my toughness, my resilience, and grit. I can tell you I got a hell of a lot more injuries in horse racing than I’ve had in MMA!

DD: John Kavanagh was in your corner in Denver. What advice has he given you in terms of your career?

DMcC: He’s been giving me the same advice all the way through. As long as I keep doing Danni and keep putting in the pace and the relentless striking and grappling that I have done then things are going to go well for me and I’m going to be able to mix it with the best girls in the world. John

has always pushed me to be the best that I can be, and believed in me becoming a top class MMA fighter. Our focus now is on getting into the UFC and becoming a UFC world champion and he believes I can do that.

DD: You’ve always said you wanted a major belt before the end

of your career. Now that you have one, what’s next?

DMcC: I’ve always said I wanted a belt or a major title because it motivates when you don’t feel like training. But belts and titles don’t give the full picture. The full picture is the person you become during this journey and how you develop as a human just doing a high-pressure sport. I’m winning already because my mindset is so bulletproof and I feel like I’ve progressed into this mature version of myself, who’s always in my corner, believes in herself and always tries her best. That’s what’s most important to me. Now that I have a belt those things don’t change. I still go into a fight with fear. My next goal is to go into a fight fearless, feeling completely bulletproof throughout the whole nine-week process.

DD: And the UFC?

DMcC: It would be pretty nice if I could become a UFC champion in the process because that would be another piece of legacy and history that I could leave behind me. But right now I’m fully focussed on becoming the most skilful fighter I can possibly be and reaching my full potential. That is what’s most important for me.

Roscommon mixed martial artist Danni McCormack (Neilan) made history on Wednesday, March 15th when she became the first Irish winner of an Invicta world title.

Roscommon’s slimmers prove you can enjoy chocolate and lose weight this Easter

Most of the thousands of people in Ireland who would like to lose weight think they have to avoid chocolate temptations this Easter. But slimmers in Slimming World groups know there is no need to turn the Easter bunny away.

In fact, Slimming World Consultant Pauline Bliss, who runs the groups in Hannon’s Hotel, says members are encouraged to enjoy a little of what they fancy as part of the club’s healthy eating plan.

“We know Easter can seem like an extremely difficult time for people on strict diets trying to slim down in time for summer, as Easter eggs line the supermarket shelves,

adverts for chocolate treats dominate TV screens, and the smell of freshly-baked hot cross buns and cakes seems to fill every room!” says Pauline.

Trish Keegan, who runs the group in Gleeson’s, says, “So often, people think that losing weight means going hungry and giving up all of your favourite foods, but the truth is it’s possible to still enjoy your favourite Easter treats as part of a healthy balanced diet, and start this summer looking and feeling great.

“Members who join our Slimming World group to lose weight soon discover that we’re not about dieting and deprivation, so chocolate needn’t be a

guilty pleasure! What we help each other to do is make healthy changes to the way we shop, cook, and eat, and learn to make healthy choices”.

Carol Doran Joyce, who runs the groups in Kiltoom Parish Hall, says, “Slimming World’s famous Food Optimising healthy eating plan allows slimmers to satisfy their appetite on filling low-energy-dense foods like pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit and vegetables, lean meat, poultry and fish. At Slimming World, these foods are called ‘Free Foods’, because members can enjoy them freely to satisfy their appetite without having to weigh, count or measure”.

SLIMMING WORLD’S CHOCOLATE, CHILLI, AND COFFEE MOUSSE POTS

The sophisticated flavours of chocolate, chilli and coffee with a dash of brandy makes this a dessert to die for! This recipe serves six, requires twenty minutes of preparation time (plus chilling/freezing), and no cooking time.

INGREDIENTS

125g dark chocolate

4 medium eggs, separated*

4 level tbsp sweetener

½ tsp dried red chilli flakes

2 tsp instant coffee granules dissolved in 1 tbsp water

2 tbsp brandy

Fat-free natural fromage frais, to serve

1 level tsp cocoa powder, to dust

Orange zest, to decorate

*Pregnant women, the elderly and babies are advised not to eat raw or partially cooked eggs.

• Break the chocolate into small pieces, place in a large heatproof bowl and melt over a pan of gently simmering water. Remove from the heat and leave to cool slightly at room temperature.

• Meanwhile, whisk the egg whites in a large bowl until stiff but not too dry.

• Whisk the egg yolks, sweetener, chilli flakes, instant coffee mixture and brandy in a separate bowl and spoon into the melted chocolate, mixing well.

• Lightly fold in the egg whites with a metal spoon until well combined. Spoon this mixture into six tea cups or dessert dishes and place in the freezer for 2-3 hours or until just set.

• To serve, top each serving with a spoonful of fromage frais, lightly dust with cocoa powder and decorate with orange zest.

Aisling Anderson, who runs the group in Ballaghaderreen, says, “Our plan also encourages members to enjoy a little bit of what they fancy, whatever that may be, meaning they don’t have to give up any of their favourite treats – including chocolate – to lose weight”.

Sheila McLoughlin, who runs the groups in Strokestown, says, “This is a very exciting time to join us, we have a gorgeous Easter giveaway. Every member who joins our group between the 26th of March and the 15th of April will pick up a free copy of our ‘Say Yes to Success’ recipe booklet. It’s a 28-day

plan of deliciously slimming breakfasts, lunches and dinners”.

Self-confessed ‘chocoholic’ Kerry Browne recently lost four and a half stone in her local Slimming World group. She says, “I used to think my love of chocolate meant I was destined to be overweight forever, but since joining Slimming World, I can’t believe how much my life has changed. “I’ve lost 4.5 stone and just got to my target weight a few weeks ago, and I feel amazing. I’ve got so much more confidence and I still regularly enjoy chocolate too! The Food Optimising healthy eating plan is so generous that I never

Pictured is Kerry Browne, who recently lost 4.5 stone with her local Slimming

feel hungry or like I have to miss out on anything. Believe it or not, I’m looking forward to a fab three-course Easter

dinner and chocolate on Easter Sunday – absolutely guilt-free!

“To top it off, the support I get from the rest of the group is unbelievable. We’re all great friends now and I really look forward to my group each week. We share tips and ideas and support each other to stick to the healthy changes we’ve committed to. It’s not a diet, it’s a healthy lifestyle”.

To find details of your local Slimming World group, log onto slimmingworld.ie. Every member who joins between the 26th of March and the 15th of April will pick up a free copy of the new ‘Say yes to Success’ recipe booklet.

World group.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

FRIDAY President who?

Paddy Power’s odds for the 2024 US Presidential Election have incumbent Joe Biden as 2-1 favourite, with Donald Trump second favourite at 3/1. While he may be a safe pair of hands, I think Biden has been uninspiring as president. Post-Trump, you could say he’s been the calm after the storm, but he hasn’t been a great president. His approval rating fell from 56% to a shocking low of 36%, and is currently at about 46%.

As for Trump, the sense is that he’s not quite as popular as before. In the race to be the Republican Party nominee for 2016, Trump swatted aside 16 other candidates. This time, he is faced with a very strong challenger for the Republican nomination in Ron DeSantis. Trump is still favourite to get the nod, but it could be very close.

Some of the ‘long shot’ listings are amusing. Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson 50/1. Oprah Winfrey 50/1. Leonardo DiCaprio 66/1. George Clooney 66/1. Kim Kardashian 66/1. Angelina Jolie and Bill Gates, both 150/1. Obviously someone in Paddy Power’s was in a fun mood.

It’s not gonna be President DiCaprio…

SATURDAY

A rite of passage

Confirmation Day (and the weather is very nice). Bishop Kevin and Fr Kevin officiated at a lovely ceremony (one of two on the day) in the Sacred Heart Church in Roscommon town. Kudos also to the excellent choir. It was the last Confirmation ceremony in our house. C’est la vie, I guess, but we’ll miss the innocence, joy and sacredness of these occasions.

Looking around the beautiful church, I could see our son’s friends and classmates, close to their parents and sponsors, the children nervous, excited. Confirmation is a rite of passage, and it was impossible not to feel that, in some way, under our

communal watch today, our son and his peers were growing up a little more.

*Well done to all the teachers, clergy and church volunteers involved today and over weeks of preparation.

SUNDAY

A great league…

Just like that, the league campaign is over. It seems no time since opening day, when a somewhat unexpected win over Tyrone got Roscommon off to such a good start. An easy win against Donegal today leaves us basking in unfamiliar territory…finishing third in Division One, after four wins and three narrow defeats.

MONDAY

Nothing to see here…

In offices across London, editors have early-morning calls with journalists and photographers…(they went like this)…

Editor: ‘Our naughty neighbours, the Daily Mail, are in the dock in the High Court, and you’re saying no need to cover it?’

‘Well, some celebrities are suing them over alleged phone-tapping, but it’s not

an actual trial, only a preliminary hearing today…legal argument. Yawn’.

‘You sure?’

‘Yep. It will be like watching – worse still, listening to – paint dry! Everything changes if the judge decides later in the week that the celebrities’ case can be heard…’

Editor: ‘So, nothing to see there?’

Seasoned hack: ‘Just boring legal talk. I might as well work from home today. Relax!’

An hour later…

Frantic Editor on phone: ‘Elton John’s turned up at the High Court hearing! And Prince Harry! PRINCE HARRY’S there! You’re at home, probably watching Loose Women! Hello? HELLO?’

MONDAY

Napoleon & Stephen

French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte reputedly said he’d rather have lucky generals than good ones. Sometimes I worry that the very decent and committed manager of our national football team, Stephen Kenny, might not be one of the lucky ones.

Tonight, Ireland gave everything

against mighty France at the Aviva, where the atmosphere was exhilarating. But when we gifted the ball to Benjamin Pavard, he returned it in a manner not to our liking, a great shot that proved to be the match-winner.

Ireland applied late pressure, with the French ‘keeper making two great saves. It was a Monday night thriller, compelling TV. The quality of Ireland’s performance augurs well for the rest of the campaign.

The jury’s been out on Stephen Kenny ever since he was appointed, the public divided on the former League of Ireland man’s credentials. Hopefully Kenny proves to be a good manager at this level. Maybe better still if he turns out to be a lucky general.

TUESDAY

Keep away from Walford!

As an occasional, eyebrow-arched viewer of the chronically depressing but passes-a-half-an-hour qualifying EastEnders, I’ve often observed (and advised readers on this page) that one should never live in a place like Albert Square. Too many people get murdered. Too many Christmas Day dinners get spoilt. Too many people who are ‘leav-

ing the square’ find that their exit (always by taxi) somehow happens in full view of their arch-enemies/ estranged family members, etc. Now I need to add another concern. The café in EastEnders/ Albert Square is not a great spot either. It’s no reflection on the management, it just seems to be that local residents have no qualms about having stand-offs/arguments in full public glare there. Often someone will storm out, just as a new cappuccino is being delivered. Again, the advice is simple: if you see any café like this one anywhere, stay away, because you’ll get no peace. I really don’t know what’s wrong with the folks in Walford, because I’ve never seen any of this tension in any of our great local cafes.

WEDNESDAY

Star’s local linnks

I read with sadness this morning of the untimely passing of muchloved comedian and TV presenter Paul O’Grady (67). A number of years ago, his roots in Roscommon People heartland came to light. Paul’s father, Pakie, was born in Ballincurry, Glinsk (later emigrating to the UK). In fact Paul O’Grady had family connections not just in Glinsk, but also in Creggs and Tulsk (see page 8). His mother (Mary) was from County Louth.

Paul O’Grady often visited Glinsk and regularly referenced his Roscommon-Galway connections in interviews. I know that people in these parts were proud of his success and of their association with him.

O’Grady rose to prominence in the 1990s in his drag queen persona (Lily Savage). He also followed in the footsteps of Terry Wogan and Les Dawson in presenting Blankety Blank (as ‘Lily’). His love of dogs also featured in much of his TV work. A gifted entertainer, Paul O’Grady came across as a lovely person. He is gone too soon. May he rest in peace.

Death of popular TV presenter Paul O’Grady mourned locally

The death of well-known British entertainer Paul O’Grady was this week mourned locally as the former comedian, broadcaster and drag queen had many family connections in counties Roscommon and Galway.

He died suddenly on Tuesday evening aged 67 and his death was announced on Wednesday morning by his husband Andre Portasio.

Born in Birkenhead near Liverpool in 1955 he moved to London in his 20s and worked as a social worker for a period. He developed a drag act as Lily Savage and came to prominence in the early 1990s when he won a number of TV awards, including a Bafta. In later years Paul worked for animal rights charities and raised money for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

After retiring from television, he established a farm in Kent, where he kept a wide variety of animals and traced his love of farm life to his time spent as a child on his granduncle’s farm in County Galway. As a child, Paul O’Grady paid many visits to his granduncle’s house in Ballincurry, Glinsk during the summer holidays and visited family

connections in Glinsk, Creggs and Tulsk.

Paul’s grandfather Pat Grady moved from Leahive, Creggs to Glinsk but died suddenly from a heart attack shortly afterwards (in January 1912) at the age of just 31. He had been among those agitating for the breaking up of the Pollok Estate and was one of the first to receive a holding when new farms were created by the Estates Commissioners in the early 1910s. He left behind a widow Biddy (nee Britton), his mother Mary (nee Dolan) and two young daughters Mary and Sarah Ann. Later that year his young son was born and was named Patrick or Pakie after his father.

The young Pakie Grady was brought up on the farm in Glinsk and was trained in farming ways by his mother and his uncle James who lived with them prior to his marriage. Pakie suffered from significant ill health and decided to move to England. The farm was sold at auction in Creggs in the late 1940s and Pakie set up home in Birkenhead near Liverpool with his wife, Molly Savage, who he had met at a dance in

Birkenhead. Her parents had emigrated to England from County Louth so the family had strong Irish connections.

As a young child, Paul and his parents and brother and sister made the journey back to Glinsk, staying at his granduncle’s farm in Ballincurry where Pakie’s three children joined James’s family for the school holidays, taking part in the summer farm work and visiting the family’s relatives in Glinsk, Creggs and Tulsk.

He has many relatives still in the local area and Mickey Grady, a first cousin of

Clooncagh National School

Strokestown,

Paul’s father, who lives in the house Paul visited as a child, said that he has many fond memories of Paul and his sibling’s visits to Ballincurry.

“We were all very sad to hear of his death. He loved animals and had fond memories of his time here” recounted Mickey.

Paul last visited Glinsk in 1993 while filming ‘In the Name of the Father’ in Dublin but the family kept in touch since by letter and email.

*Many thanks to Pauline Scott for her assistance with this article

The late Paul O’Grady (R.I.P.) on left and as his alter ego ‘Lily Savage’ , middle photograph. On right is a young Paul O’Grady who spent alot of his summer holidays at his granduncle’s house in Ballincurry, Glinsk. Photograph as published in Paul’s autobiography.

NewsPeople

ROADS ACT 1993 - SECTION 12 ABANDONMENT OF A PUBLIC ROAD

Roscommon County Council has abandoned the public road described in the schedule hereunder:

Donnellan & Co – Communion & Confirmation Wear Trends

Donnellan & Co Roscommon are now fully stocked with an extensive range of boys’ communion wear and confirmation wear. Exclusive stockists of the stylish Spanish brand One Varones, along with Irish brands 1880 Club and Benetti, Donnellan & Co have an exceptional range in stock to ensure your young man is looking dapper for his big day!

Spectator stand to be constructed at Lisnamult

Roscommon County Council has given the green light for a spectator stand to be constructed at Roscommon Community Sports Park in Lisnamult.

The sports facility is home to senior and jun-

ior soccer pitches as well as an AstroTurf pitch. It is the home venue of both Roscommon United and Roscommon Town Youths.

The development is described as “spectator stand alongside main soccer

First Saturday devotions for world peace

A reminder that the First Saturday Devotions for ‘The conversion of Russia and world peace’ – taking place in any Catholic Church – continue this Saturday, April 1st and every Saturday for five consecutive months. The April 2nd Rosary begins this Saturday at 9.20 am prior to 10 am Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town. For more information, contact Chris O’Gara, Our Lady of Fatima Association, on 086-2255029.

Kilteevan Tidy Towns Spring Clean

Kilteevan Tidy Towns is holding their annual community spring clean this weekend. Volunteers are invited to gather at Kilteevan Community Centre on Saturday, April 1st, at 10 am. Litter pickers and bags will be provided. Kilteevan Tidy Towns is appealing to everyone in the community to join in this nationwide antilitter campaign. Every contribution during the spring clean can have real and measurable benefits for our environment.

Clothes collection for Ballaghaderreen Park

A clothes collection fundraiser for the upkeep of Ballaghaderreen Community Park is taking place from March 20th to 31st. Items can be left at the clubhouse from Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. No quilts, duvets or pillows please. Contact Brid on 0858492213. Thanks for your continued support.

Castlerea ICA Guild meeting

The Castlerea Guild of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) will hold its next meeting in ‘D Gaff’, Barrack Street, Castlerea on Tuesday, April 4th at 8.15 pm. A guest speaker will be in attendance on the night and new members are very welcome.

pitch and all associated site development works”. Permission, subject to two conditions, was recently granted to the applicant, chairperson of the Lisnamult Residents and Community Association, Anthony Doolan.

A key trend this season is a more casual look. Keeping up with the trends, Donnellan & Co stock a variety of colours in blazers and chinos, so one can build a unique outfit. This look can be seen in the images where the boy can be seen a blue blazer along with a beige chino or the pink sports jacket paired with the navy chino. Both of these looks are stocked in Donnellan & Co from One Varones. Another key look catered for by Donnellan & Co is a three-piece suit with a contrasting colour jacket or waistcoat. This look

can be seen in the images of the outfits from 1880 Club and Benetti. The 1880 Club outfit features a navy trouser and waistcoat, finished with a grey check jacket. The Benetti outfit features a navy trousers and jacket along with a light blue contrasting waistcoat.

All of the looks pictured are available in store at Donnellan & Co Roscommon whilst stocks last!

Dysart Men’s Group to meet on April 18th

The Dysart Rural Men’s Group was established in 2007 to provide a social outlet for men from the wide catchment area of Dysart, enabling them to meet in the local community centre and engage in various projects/activities. The group are meeting again on Tuesday, April 18th at 12 noon at Dysart community hall to discuss their future plans and weekly activities. All members and interested men from the greater Dysart, Kiltoom, Rahara, Ballymurray, Knockcroghery, Lecarrow, Kiltoom, Curraghboy and Four Roads areas are welcome to attend.

Roscommon LEADER Partnership SICAP Officer Ciaran Mullooly will be in attendance. Special guest on the day will be Shannonside Radio Gaelic games commentator Willie Hegarty. It is hoped to restart activities on a weekly basis if enough men are in attendance.

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Wishing

In 2022, Keadue Tidy Towns won the regional award in the SuperValu Tidy Towns competition. Fáilte Ireland, in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development and SuperValu, will be presenting the North West and West Regional awards to the 2022 recipients in Kilronan Castle on Wednesday, the 5th of April. The awards will be attended by Ms Heather Humphreys, Minister for Rural and Community Development, and will be officially presented by SuperValu representatives. The winners from Roscommon, Leitrim, Galway, Donegal, Monaghan, Mayo, Cavan and Sligo will attend the event, including local winners, Keadue Tidy Towns.

Launch of Roscommon/ Longford Division’s fifth annual Garda Youth Awards

An Garda Síochána Roscommon/ Longford Division is delighted to announce the launch of the fifth annual Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards, in association with Roscommon and Longford County Councils, who are sponsoring the initiative again this year.

Chairperson of the Roscommon/ Longford Youth Awards Inspector David Cryan commented: “This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to nominate a young person or persons within their community, who they feel should be recognised for their contribution to their local area.

“This event recognises the outstanding contributions that young people are making in their com-

munities on an ongoing basis”.

The Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards celebrate outstanding young people between the ages of 13 and 21 years.

An Garda Síochána Roscommon/Longford, in conjunction with Roscommon and Longford County Councils, recognise that a lot of good work is being done by young people in every community in these two counties.

The nomination process is now open and An Garda Síochána in Roscommon and Longford are inviting the public to nominate a young person they know who was committed to making a difference to their community during 2022.

Gardaí will be distributing nomination forms to schools, youth

groups and voluntary organisations right across the counties of Roscommon and Longford via email in the coming weeks. These forms may also be requested from Roscommon.GardaYouthAwards@garda.ie or may be downloaded on the Garda website and also from the Roscommon and Longford Local Authority websites.

Four categories

There are four categories to choose from:

Individual Award – Making a positive contribution to their community, making it a better place to live in.

Group Award – Two or more

young people making a positive contribution to their community, making it a better place to live.

Special Achievement Award

– Overcame difficult circumstances, defied all the odds and whose commitment deserves recognition.

Community Safety Award

– Through a crime prevention or safety initiative/innovation, have made their community a safer place to live in.

Nomination forms can be emailed to Roscommon.GardaYouthAwards@garda.ie or posted to the Community Policing Unit, Boyle Garda Station, Co. Roscommon. All nominations must be received by 5 pm on Wednesday, 31st of May 2023.

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newsbriefs

Special edition of the Dementia Cafe to be held in Ballinlough

With Easter on the way, plans have been made for a very special edition of the Dementia Cafe to be held in Ballinlough, County Roscommon on Wednesday, April 12th at 2.30 pm.

Thanks to the support of Western Alzheimer’s carers and the Enterprise Kiltullagh voluntary group, Roscommon LEADER Partnership will hold an event which will feature a lovely mix of music, song and great nostalgia. The venue will be the big meeting room at EK Enterprise Kiltullagh Digital Hub building along the Main Street in Ballinlough. There will also be an online café on the day for those of you cannot make it in person. Please email ciaranmullooly@ridc.ie for a zoom invitation before April 8th

All newcomers are welcome on the day and those who would like to attend should contact Ciaran Mullooly to book their seat (086 0836720).

Sewing volunteers sought!

Volunteers with sewing machines are being sought to make ‘Brown Scapulars’. Please contact Kitty Ross on 086-0405621 or Chris O’Gara on 086-2255029.

2022 winner Adam Reddington (Fuerty, Roscommon) pictured with Superintendent Fran Nicholson. Adam was nominated by Fuerty GAA Club for his organising of a run/walk in aid of Aoibheann’s Pink Tie & Childhood Cancer Foundation.

2022 winner Ava Mulry pictured accepting her award from Superintendent Fran Nicholson. Ava and Michael Gillooly were nominated by Oliver Moran of Roscommon Gaels Club for their volunteering at the Roscommon Gaels All Stars Team. Ava and Michael were the overall winners in the Group category.

Special Award winner in 2022: Callum Clarke from Tulsk was nominated by Garda Linda O’Connell. Callum rescued his grandfather while they were out fishing.

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2023 Roscommon/Longford Garda Youth Awards at Roscommon Garda Station were Inspector David Cryan (Chairperson of the Roscommon/Longford Youth Awards), Shane Tiernan (Roscommon County Council Chief Executive), Superintendent Fran Nicholson (Roscommon District), Garda Tanya Duffy (Community Policing Unit), Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon (Roscommon/Longford Division), Paddy Mahon (Longford County Council Chief Executive), and Inspector Paddy McGirl (Longford Garda Station).

NewsPeople

Annual

MS Ireland church gate collections

The Roscommon voluntary branch of Multiple Sclerosis Ireland will hold collections at churches throughout the county this weekend (April 1st and 2nd). All donations will be gratefully accepted and appreciated. The branch is indebted to all the collectors who are giving freely of their time to make this fundraiser possible.

Registration open for Ballaghaderreen Darkness Into Light

The Ballaghaderreen Darkness Into Light Walk takes place at sunrise (4.15 am) on the morning of Saturday, May 6th, starting from St. Nathy’s College. Registration for the walk is now open. Adult €21; Jobseekers €16; Child €5; Families €52. Registration will take place in Duffy’s SuperValu on Saturday, April 15th and Thursday, April 27th. All support appreciated. More details in future editions.

Gardaí seek help tracing man missing from Strokestown area

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 30-year-old

Richard Nwachukwu, who is missing from his home in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, since March 23rd.

Richard is described as being approximately 5’ 9” in height, of medium build with short black hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen in Athlone on March 22nd/23rd. He was wearing a grey beanie hat, black Nike puffer jacket, black

Breakfast 7.30am – 11.30

Breakfast: 7.30am to 11.30am

Lunch 12 –3

Lunch 12pm to 3pm

Evening Bar & Bistro Menu 3-9

Evening Bar & Bistro Menu: 3pm to 9pm

jogger pants, and black runners with white socks. He was also carrying a black Nike bag over his shoulder and had a second dark-coloured bag in his possession.

Gardaí and Richard’s family are concerned for his welfare. Anyone with information on Richard’s whereabouts is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Please support Western Alzheimers by holding a Tea Day in your home, community, place of work, school, or college on Friday April 21st or a day that suits you to raise vital funds for their services and support families living with dementia

Phone 090 66 27816 for your Tea Day pack or visit www.westernalzheimer.ie

THE BRIDGE CLUB

Roscommon Bridge Club

1st: Joan Donnellan and June Halliday; 2nd: Tresina Smyth and Tommie Murphy; Gross: Phil and Seamus Cooney.

St Coman’s Bridge Club

1st: Marion Dolan and Angela Carney; 2nd: Evelyn Curley and Rita Roughneen; Gross: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro.

Ballymurray Bridge Club

1st: Ethel Keenan and Patricia O’Gara; 2nd: Kate Walshe and Michael Clogher; Gross: Judy Adamson and Larry Shine.

ATHLONE ROAD , ROSCOMMON GREAT FOOD, ALL DAY EVERY DAY

09066 37644

Kilbride Bridge Club

March 15th – 1st: Sheila Macken and Anne Moloney; 2nd: Martina Fallon and Pauline Donohoe; 3rd: Anne Igoe and Gertie McDermott. March 22nd – 1st: Annette Gaffney and Pauline Leonard; 2nd: Jane Hunt and Mary Kelly; 3rd: Phil Murray O’Brien and Gertie McDermott.

Richard Nwachukwu, who is missing from his home in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, since March 23rd.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Next time you’re ‘stuck’ behind a tractor, spare a thought for city drivers!

Our man Frank on his latest experience of the contrasting challenges of city and rural driving; Memories of busy pubs in the past…and a heartbreaking Connacht final defeat for Creggs

Of the almost seventy-two years I have spent on this planet, thankfully barely two of them were spent living in a city. I have always unashamedly advocated the advantages of country living, advantages that seem to get bigger and bigger as the years go by.

Fresh air, open spaces, and a slower pace of life are among the obvious benefits of living in the country, as indeed are the sounds of the animals and birds. But bad and all as rush hour traffic in Creggs is, nothing could prepare me for the traffic congestion that seems to be a permanent part of Dublin living.

One of our children lives out past the airport on the north-side of Dublin, and – as grandparents do –Carol and I answered an emergency call last week to do a bit of babysitting. We drove up on the Wednesday morning, leaving Creggs at 8.30 am. As we weren’t needed ‘till about 12 midday, we had loads of time to do our journey in a nice, relaxed state.

All was going well until we got near Kinnegad, and I saw the first flashing signs telling us that there was a collision ahead, and we would have long delays at least as far as Maynooth. And so we stopped and started and went 100 metres, stopped again and did another 200 metres, and stopped again, and so it went on. After a delay of about 45 minutes things started to clear up, and we eventually made it to our destination with about ten minutes in hand.

As it happened, I went home that evening, leaving Carol behind me, and I encountered more delays. When I came back up again on Thursday morning there was another hold-up, and on our way

home that evening another collision had the road west off the M50 completely blocked.

Again the delay was substantial, and after only two days my tolerance level of Dublin driving was at zero. I could only pity all of those who have no choice but to face all these problems day in, day out.

Most times I travel, I avail of the free public transport, but sadly Bus Eireann have discontinued the wonderful direct X20 service to Dublin Airport. Citylink go that way from Athlone, but they stop in every town on the way, and Aircoach, who do have a direct service, won’t accept our free travel pass, which I think is a shame.

Anyway, I’m back in Creggs, it’s

Sunday morning, and while we hope for a large crowd in the village later this evening after the big Connacht Junior Cup final, right now I can travel freely. Apart from two calves that escaped from some farmer’s field, all is quiet on the traffic front.

And so, when you find yourself behind a big tractor on a small country road or have to wait for a few minutes while a load of very valuable cows slowly cross a road, be thankful you have only these type of minor irritations to put up with, and think of your counterparts near the city who may be stuck in traffic for ages, and who might be very thankful for the life you have.

1970s’ memories a reminder of how pub scene has changed

A subject that often comes up in conversation is the way things and times have changed in the pub trade in rural Ireland. Sometimes, even for those of us who saw the changes happen first-hand, it’s hard to recall the times when our country pubs were booming.

A regular reader of this column (actually he should probably write it) recently sent me a page from the Roscommon Champion of January 1977, and the ads in the entertainment section really showed how pub life was at the time. On Friday, January 28th, the Kilmovee All Rounders were playing in Dowd’s Glencastle Lounge in Glinsk, and on the Sunday night, the White Heather Boys were strutting their stuff. On the following Tuesday, February 1st, there was a 25 Card Drive, and the prizes for it would make any farmer happy today! Whoever came in first got four bags of Clarendon, while second received two bags of calf nuts.

pare to the craic and the sense of pure fun of trying your hand at a waltz or a foxtrot round Bradley’s or Dowd’s. The truth is, I never did either, but I met loads of people that did, and they told me it was great craic.

Anyway, that was then and this is now, and as local pubs keep disappearing, it’s hard to believe there was such a vibrant and brilliant pub culture back then.

And finally…

It’s back to Dowd’s in Glinsk again soon, where Maria Fitzmaurice tells me their Easter Special Baking Made Easy event is taking place on Friday evening (7.30 pm to 9 pm) in the dining room.

It’s Monday morning as I write this, and I am reflecting on the heartbreaking last-minute loss our rugby lads suffered in Sunday’s Connacht Junior Cup final, when Westport won with the very last kick of the game.

However, despite the sad nature of the defeat, when I met the team and management last night they were in total agreement that we didn’t really perform to our best. As a long-serving member of the team said to me, it would’ve been daylight robbery if we had won it.

Sometimes you can learn more from a loss than from a win, and I always think it’s a good thing when teams take a realistic look at a defeat. Oftentimes it’s easy to blame the pitch, or the weather, or especially the referee (with maybe some justification) and look for excuses, which of course deflects the responsibility from the players. Our lads were all honest enough to admit that for whatever

reason, we didn’t really show up, and with a huge game ahead next Saturday in the AIL qualifier against Munster League champions Richmond, the challenge now is to sort out the problems and, as they say, get back on the horse.

That game takes place in Dublin, in Coolmine RFC at 3 o’clock on Saturday, and while no one gives us a chance against the Limerick team, it’s a great opportunity for our lads to come out firing on all cylinders and show just how good we can be.

Being underdogs will suit us, and while it would take a monumental effort to get a win, the great thing about sport is there is always another game, no matter how disappointing the previous one was. Hopefully on Saturday, whether we win or not, we will at least show up and put in the performance that evaded us last Sunday.

The same weekend, Bradley’s in Creggs had music on all three nights, with the Irish Knights on Friday, the Moonlight Rovers on Saturday, and GHS on Sunday night. From my recollection of those times, you’d hardly have room to park your car in Creggs – that’s if you had a car, which I hadn’t.

As luck would have it I met Tommy Dowd, the proprietor of Dowd’s in Glinsk, only yesterday. He told me that during the summer months in those days, he would have something on four nights a week in the pub.

Funnily enough, he said Tuesday nights were great back then; bands like the White Heather Boys would have the place packed to the rafters and the dancers would be out in force. After the bars closed, you could have gone to the Casino Ballroom in Castlerea, where on that Sunday night Brendan Quinn and the Bluebirds were playing.

I know there is lots of entertainment out there nowadays, but I don’t think anything could com-

The event itself is free and everyone is welcome. Tickets for the raffle for the Bakers Basket and treats are €5. Maria wants to thank Marie Barlow for the homemade butter demonstration and Kate and Anita of Les Petites Tartres for sponsorship of the ingredients.

Also, she wishes to thank all who contributed to the Daffodil Day raffle, which raised over €200. Thanks to all who gave spot prizes and to Evelyn and Emma Curley for the beautiful Easter hampers.

Last, but definitely not least, Maria extends best wishes to their own girl Nadine and the Creggs girls U-18 team who are playing a final this Sunday in the Galway Sportsground. (I don’t know the time; at time of writing it is not to be found on the Connacht Rugby website. Good luck, girls!).

A heartbreaking loss – but we didn’t bring our ‘A’ game

Aisling, Jack and Ann Diffley pictured ahead of last Sunday’s Connacht Rugby Junior Cup Final between Creggs and Westport at the Sportsground in Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Contact Us - We are here to Support You

Know Your Rights - Tenants’ rights

My private rented accommodation is damp and mouldy. Does my landlord have to fix this?

Know Your Rights - Tenants’ rights

My private rented accommodation is damp and mouldy. Does my landlord have to fix this?

Yes, your landlord has a legal duty to make sure that your home meets certain minimum physical standards. This includes keeping it in a proper state of structural repair and free from damp. Does my landlord have to provide a washing machine?

Yes, your landlord must provide you with access to a washing machine, and a clothes-dryer if your home does not have a private garden or yard.

Some of the other things they must provide include:

Yes, your landlord has a legal duty to make sure that your home meets certain minimum physical standards. This includes keeping it in a proper state of structural repair and free from damp.

· A 4-ring hob with oven and grill

· A cooker hood or extractor fan

Does my landlord have to provide a washing machine?

· Fridge and freezer

· A microwave oven

Yes, your landlord must provide you with access to a washing machine, and a clothes-dryer if your home does not have a private garden or yard.

· A sink with hot and cold water

· A well-ventilated bathroom which is in a separate room from the living quarters

· A fixed heating appliance in each room which you can control

Some of the other things they must provide include:

· Vermin-proof rubbish storage facilities

· A fire blanket and fire detection and alarm system

A 4-ring hob with oven and grill

· Safety restrictors on windows above a certain height

A cooker hood or extractor fan

· Information about the property, building services, appliances and their maintenance requirements

· A carbon monoxide alarm

Fridge and freezer

Is my landlord responsible if my possessions are damaged because of an issue with the property, for example, if the pipes burst?

A microwave oven

While the landlord is responsible for keeping the building in good repair, they are not generally responsible for any damage to your possessions. Several insurance companies provide contents insurance for private tenants.

A sink with hot and cold water

What should I do if my house does not meet the minimum standards?

A well-ventilated bathroom which is in a separate room from the living quarters

A fixed heating appliance in each room which you can control

· Vermin-proof rubbish storage facilities

Firstly, speak to your landlord about the problem. Put your complaint in writing and include as many details as possible, including photographs, videos and any receipts for repairs you paid for. If your landlord refuses to carry out the necessary repairs, you should report them to your local authority. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing these minimum standards in rented accommodation.

A fire blanket and fire detection and alarm system

Safety restrictors on windows above a certain height

Citizens Information – A trusted source for your Information. Read more about standards for rented accommodation on https://bit.ly/ MinimumStandardsRentedAccomodation Roscommon CIC – T: 0818 07 6360 E: roscommon@citinfo.ie

www.citizensinformation.ie

Or call our national phone service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

Information about the property, building services, appliances and their maintenance requirements

A carbon monoxide alarm

Is my landlord responsible if my possessions are damaged because of an issue with the property, for example, if the pipes burst?

While the landlord is responsible for keeping the building in good repair, they are not generally responsible for any damage to your possessions. Several insurance companies provide contents insurance for private tenants.

Miriam’s MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Joanne Hayes: Wrongly accused of murder in a stifling, condemnatory environment

The tragic, horrific and utterly heartbreaking events relating to the discovery of an innocent, newborn infant’s body on the 14th April, 1984 on White Strand beach outside of Caherciveen, County Kerry not only shocked our entire nation, it quite literally changed us forever. Last weekend, (following what has been described as an extensive Garda investigation, ongoing since 2018), a man and a woman were arrested and questioned regarding the infant’s death. I must stress at this point that they were released without charge. According to reports a file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Baby John, as this little infant was named, (also known as ‘the Kerry baby’) was only five days old when he, according to the results of a postmortem, died as a result of ‘a total of 28 stab wounds and a fractured spine’. Today, this innocent little angel’s body lies resting in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Caherciveen. As someone who remembers this firestorm, I believe it’s fair to say that the sordid, sick and shameful saga surrounding baby John’s death not only forced this nation to grudgingly confront the truth about how it treated women; it also set off a chain of events which have brought shame on the entire State.

The hypocrisy, the institutional patriarchy and the misogyny which prevailed in Ireland at that time not only meant that fear was the norm for Irish women, it also led to an entirely innocent woman, Joanne Hayes, (a then 25-year-old ‘single mother’), being witch-hunted, arrested and wrongly accused of baby John’s murder. Indeed, even when blood tests showed that Joanne – and Jeremiah Locke, the man she was in a relationship with – could not have been the parents of baby John, investigating Gardaí actually put forward an outlandish theory that she had bizarrely

given birth to ‘twins’ who had ‘different fathers’. Back then, the State, and the Catholic Church who, due to its oppressive and dictatorial weight (which bore down on all aspects of society, even going as far as crafting the curriculum for State schools), were firmly in control, rendering women little or no say over their bodies. It was this stifling and condemnatory environment in which Joanne Hayes was reviled, berated, belittled and wrongly accused of the murder most foul of a tiny, helpless, innocent newborn infant.

Nearly four decades on, Ireland, and indeed Joanne Hayes, the strong, resilient mother who, despite being isolated, marginalised and oppressed by hypocrites, chose to have two children on her own, are not only hoping for closure – we’re all hoping that justice will finally be delivered for a helpless, innocent infant.

I cannot let this week go by without also mentioning what is another dark, depressing and horrific chapter in our history; that of the devastating death of 15-year-old schoolgirl Ann Lovett and her beautiful baby boy at a lonely grotto in Granard, County Longford.

Ann and her infant died alone on 31st of January 1984, as the statue of the Virgin Mary looked down on her suffering, and as the State’s and the Catholic Church’s rallying cry culminated in their sanctimonious antichoice ethos.

The stories of Baby John, Ann Lovett and her baby boy are just two chapters in the shocking horror story of how our nation once tried to cover up how we punished, neglected, abused and shunned our women; disgustingly undervaluing not just their lives, but the lives of their innocent children. To this day, Baby John remains ‘unclaimed’. May his beautiful, innocent soul, along with Ann Lovett’s and her infant son’s, rest in peace.

Graham Dwyer and his bizarre prison groupies...

According to reports, murderer Graham Dwyer was so confident he’d win his appeal against his conviction for the 2012 murder of Elaine O’Hara, he’d actually ‘planned a new life abroad’, to ‘start afresh’. Wow, cocky or what?

Readers may remember how a great deal of the evidence against this sadistic individual was focused on text messages between a ‘master phone’ used by himself, and a ‘slave phone’ used by his vulnerable victim Ms O’Hara, who he murdered for his own sexual gratification.

Spring has finally sprung, and, while I lament the lost hour spent in the leaba, I have to admit I just adore the longer evenings, for the simple reason they make me feel like a newly-released prisoner who’s spent the entire winter incarcerated in a dark and dreary cell.

Mind you readers, the onset of spring also tends to send my OCD’s-need-to-clean into overdrive, morphing me into a kind of bargain-basement version of Marie Kondo as I declutter and feng shui everything from the bathroom to the dogs’ bedroom.

Yes folks, it’s fair to say, that

this week, I’m officially high on housework…or perhaps that’s just the fumes from the stuff I used to clean my oven! Either way, I’m a ritualised spring-cleaner, gripped by the urge to purge everything that’s not nailed down.

In fact poor, long-suffering hubby, (a hoarder who leaves a trail of debris around the house…tools, phone chargers, useless pieces of junk he calls ‘treasure’) says that if there was any documented medical evidence that spring cleaning was an official ‘medical’ condition, he’d see about getting me ‘diagnosed, treated and cured’ ASAP! The cheek!

Given the gruesome details which emerged about Dwyer during the trial, I for one hope this cold-blooded killer, (who, with a wife and family, a job as an architect and house in Dublin’s plush Foxrock, clearly once believed he ‘had it all’), remains behind bars.

However it seems not all people feel the same as me. Bizarrely, according to reports, Dwyer has been receiving plenty of support from individuals ‘on the outside’. To be precise, that support has been coming from women; or ‘certifiable prison groupies’ as I call them. I believe the term used by medical experts is the ‘Bonnie and Clyde Syndrome’.

In fact, one of these groupies has written to Dwyer, stating how she’d stand by him ‘no matter what’. Seriously love, how desperate do you have to be to actively pursue a man behind bars…and not just any man, but one who has callously, cold-bloodedly and deliberately murdered another woman?

A bit of advice hon: if you’re that fame-hungry, why don’t you just apply to be on Gogglebox?

It’s spring –and I’m officially high on housework!

Joanne Hayes

Over €3k from Four Roads fundraiser presented to Palliative Care Unit

A cheque presentation was recently made to the Palliative Care Unit of Roscommon Hospital following a successful local fundraiser.

The fundraiser was organised by the Four Roads Dads + Lads hurlers, who set up a charity hurling and football game with St Aidan’s Golden Oldies and Four Roads camogie and ladies football clubs.

The event was held in memory of Mickey Cunniffe, whose 20th anniversary occurred recently. His former hurling team at Four Roads came up with the idea of doing the fundraiser in memory of their teammate and friend, who captained them to victory in the county final during his last year hurling with the club.

The fundraiser was a great success, and a total of €3,105 was raised for the Palliative Care Unit of Roscommon Hospital.

A cheque for over €3k was presented to the Palliative Care Unit in Roscommon Hospital following a recent fundraiser organised by the Four Roads Dads + Lads hurlers. Back row, left to right: Padraig Mulry, Four Roads Dads + Lads, Aidan Thompson, Chairperson, St Aidan’s GAA Club, Gerry Mulry, Chairperson, Four Roads Hurling Club, Damien Lohan, Four Roads Dads + Lads, Adrian Tully, Four Roads Dads + Lads, Paul Connolly, Four Roads Dads + Lads. Front row, left to right: Helen Treacy, Palliative Care Unit, Roscommon Hospital, Valerie Hynes, Chairperson, Four Roads Ladies Football Club, Marie Glennon, Chairperson, Four Roads Camogie Club, Sheila Coyle, Four Roads

ROSCOMMON EASTER PARADE

ENTRY FORM 2023

If you'd like to take part in this year's Easter Parade on Monday 10th April , please select the category that best suits your business, club or organisition

organisation

Biodiversity workshop in Creggs next Tuesday

A workshop on biodiversity will take place in Creggs on Tuesday, April 4th at 7.30 pm. The workshop is part of ongoing work on a Community Foundation Biodiversity Grant for the village.

Ecologist Sheila Murphy is working with Creggs Rural Development to study existing biodiversity in the village area and examine how best to enhance biodiversity in coming years. The workshop will combine the ideas of village groups and local residents on how best to improve biodiversity in the village and make a plan for coming years.

Local groups, interested parties and all local residents are invited to come to the workshop in the Historical Centre in Creggs on Tuesday night, 4th of April to get involved in this worthwhile project for the village. All welcome. The event will get underway at 7.30 pm.

Local defibrillator group classes

Loughglynn, Lisacul and Gortaganny Defibrillator Group will run classes on Friday 14th, Saturday 15th, and Sunday, April 16th. If you would like to book your place contact Dympna on 086-0682109, Breege on 087-1268806 or Andre on 087-7425947. All members are now due for renewal certification. New recruits welcome.

Mass for Healing in Curraghboy

A Mass for Healing will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone (N37 W704) on Friday, March 31st at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr. Peter Okpetu (Exorcist Priest), currently based in Cavan. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. All are most welcome. Contact 086-4054489 for further details.

Roscommon

Service Station

Community/Voluntary (free of charge)

Commercial (€70 entry fee)

Organisition:......................................................................

Organisation:

Contact Name:........................................

Tel:.............................. Email:.........................................

Float theme/concept:.....................................................

Please return completed form to Roscommon Easter Parade: C/O The Red Parrot or Down The Hatch or by email cait29@gmail.com

All entry fees must be paid in advance by EFT/SEPA

ACCOUNT NAME: Easter Parade IBAN: IE61 BOFI 9054 2484 8149 16

BIC : BOFIIE2D BY CHEQUE: Roscommon Easter Parade Committee

Entries to arrive no later than Holy Thursday, 6th April. Please note a late entry fee of €80 will apply.

SOME INFO FOR PARTICIPANTS : Please note the parade will start at 2.30PM SHARP from Abbeytown and will take the following route: Abbey Street – Church Street – Main Street – The Square – Castle Street The committee reserves the right to accept and reject entries.

Follow us on our Socials

Pictured are members of the 2002 hurling team who played with the late Mickey Cunniffe during his last year hurling with Four Roads, and who came up with the idea for the recent fundraiser.

Healthy Club.

Harrington’s views on immigration haven’t changed – her PR approach has

Let’s talk about ...

Kellie Harrington controversy

(A student’s perspective)

Alannah Ita Healy

Boxer Kellie Harrington became a household name back in August 2021 when her performance in the lightweight division of the Tokyo Olympics saw her bring home gold for Ireland. The Dublin native’s win was a point of national pride and celebration, and an inescapable news story, as headlines detailing her achievement circulated the media cycle for weeks.

Flashing forward to 2023, and over the past couple of days, Harrington’s name has once again been popping up in mainstream headlines… but this time, her sporting abilities are not the focus.

Rather, Harrington is in the news this week after clips from her recent appearance on Off The Ball began trending. During their discussion, interviewer Shane Hannon brought up a tweet from October of last year and asked the boxer if she still had the ‘strongly held views on immigration’ contained in the post.

Harrington had quote-retweeted a post from GB News in which commentator Eva Vlaardingerbroek claimed ‘young girls’ are being ‘sacrificed on the altar of mass immigration’, referring to the horrific murder of a young girl in France recently. Harrington captioned the retweet, “Very very sad. Such a powerful message from Eva Vlaardingerbroek. Our own leaders need to take a listen. She believes this is the 12th girl in France this year who has been killed by an immigrant… and that’s just France”. The tweet was deleted shortly after.

Upon being asked to clarify her views on the link between immigration and violent crime which was being alleged, Harrington immediately grew defensive, telling Hannon, “I feel right now at the moment that you’re hanging me out to dry… I feel like you’ve brought that up to bring up a bit of controversy”. And the rest of the interaction continues in just as stilted and hostile a manner, with Harrington evading comment and refusing to clarify her position to Hannon, the entire debacle intermittently in-

terrupted by an unseen and doubtlessly panicked PR person, urging from behind the camera for them to move on from the topic and regain focus on Harrington’s new SPAR partnership (I wonder, by the way, if the supermarket branch appreciated being name-dropped during such a tense stage of the interview, when talking about such a charged and controversial subject?).

After a few more awkward back and forths – and about a million retorts from Harrington inferring the question was irrelevant anyway because the tweet was from October (a whopping five-ish months ago) – the exchange came to an end. But naturally, it wasn’t long before the clip began gaining traction online, and Harrington was forced to issue an official comment.

In a statement on Twitter, Harrington, with all the dispassionate conviction a carefully-worded press release can allow for, attempts to rescind the impression she gave on the show, clarifying that in fact, she’s “all about community, inclusion, and diversity” and that during the interview, she “reacted with (her) emotions and without the facts”.

At first glance, the statement reads fine (if a bit generic and unconvincing, as these kinds of statements tend to be), but after a moment’s thought, it’s clear how paper thin Harrington’s claims in it are.

She said that when writing the controversial tweet, her “thoughts in that moment were of that young girl, and not any political opinion”, and while I don’t doubt that Harrington was indeed very moved by the truly tragic story in France, her tweet cannot be said to be politically neutral; in it, she blatantly calls on “our own leaders” “to take a listen” after drawing a heavy-handed link between immigration and incidents of violent crime. How is that not to be seen as a politically charged comment?

She also claims the reason she immediately deleted the tweet was that she “realised the significance of (it) and the hurt caused to a number of people”, but at the time she made no reference to such reasoning. All she said upon removing the tweet, apart from extending further sympathies for the tragedy in France, was, “Deleted and walked away. As someone rightly suggested, thanks. Don’t need the hate post!”. Does that comment not make the tweet’s deletion read a lot more like someone realising the bad press the post could spark, not the action of someone who’s come to some sort of instant realisation about the hurt platforming anti-immigration sentiment causes?

I’d like to believe I’m just being overly cynical by not taking Harrington at her word (or per-

haps more aptly, her PR person’s word) when she says she is actually “all about community, inclusion, and diversity”, but the conviction of her earlier comments is so unbalanced by her more scripted, dispassionate, and contradictory statements on it now, that it just feels entirely unconvincing.

Harrington says in her statement, “I do not want to engage in politically sensitive matters”, despite directly engaging in such matters in her October tweet, because she’s now acutely aware that the views she holds are ones which will spark a lot of backlash, and ones which, judging by her interview on Monday, she’s either not equipped or not willing to elaborate on. She doesn’t wish to engage in these matters anymore, not because she has always been politically neutral publicly, because she’s “realised” something, or because her views aren’t actually as controversial as they came across, but because, as seen in how quick-

Babhta Ceannais Scór na nÓg Ros Comáin a big success!

Last Saturday’s Scór na nÓg County

Final was a wonderful occasion, which truly showcased the talent in our Roscommon clubs.

A brilliant atmosphere of friendly rivalry exuded around the always hospitable Elphin Community Centre, where a packed house was treated to a spectacle of music, song, dance and drama.

The first event down for decision was the Tráth na gCeisteanna. After the initial stage round, Kilglass Gaels, St Michael’s and Athleague/Tremane emerged as the top three, advancing to the stage final, where Kilglass won. In the Rince Foirne, Athleague/Tremane,

Castlerea A and B, and Kilmore battled it out in a great contest. Castlerea B retained the title they won last year.

In a hotly contested solo singing event, Ciara Collins of Kilmore, Shauna McGrath, and Anna McGrath from Ballinameen, all gave excellent renditions of their pieces, but it was St Dominic’s’ Gemma Casey who took the spoils for a second successive year. Also pulling back to back titles was Matthew Ffrench of Kilmore. His performance in the recitation/storytelling category defeated the talented opposition that was Elphin’s Henry Gunn, Ailbhe Glynn-Desmond from Padraig Pearses, and Eabha Nally of Roscom-

mon Gaels.

In the ballad group section, the Kilmore club claimed their second victory of the night and in doing so beat off superb deliveries from St Dominic’s, St Michael’s and Athleague/Tremane.

Undoubtedly the strongest competition of the night was the novelty act. Four very polished teams of actors from Padraig Pearses, Elphin and St Dominic’s really entertained the audience. The county title went to the St Dominic’s A team.

The Ceol Uirlise was a keen contest between Padraig Pearses, Kilmore, Athleague/Tremane and St. Michael’s. The title went to St Michael’s, a return

ly people began calling for SPAR to end their partnership with her on the back of the scandal, it’s bad for business.

It appears to me that Harrington hasn’t evolved her beliefs on immigration since October or since Monday; it just seems that after an embarrassing interview and a desperate lack of coaching on how to deal with (or avoid dealing with) more sensitive topics, her PR team have finally stepped in to try and put out the fire. And the solution they’ve come to appears to be Harrington keeping tight-lipped about political issues altogether from now on.

Harrington told Hannon in Monday’s now infamous interview, “You know me by now, and you know you’re going to get the truth off me”. Well, it would seem we know Harrington’s views on immigration by now, but we should also know we’re not likely to get the truth off her about them again very soon.

to the winning ways in Scór na nÓg for the North Roscommon club. The night concluded with rousing footwork in the Rince Seit, where Elphin B emerged victorious as the expense of Kilmore, Castlerea and Elphin A. Roscommon GAA County Board Chairperson Brian Carroll presented all winners with their trophies, and for the first time, a County Champion Cup was given to each winning club.

Coiste Scór Ros Comáin commends all of the competitors, their mentors and clubs, for their wonderful preparation and cooperation on Saturday night. They congratulate all winners and wish them good luck as they pre-

pare for the Connacht Final on April 16th in the Town Hall Theatre in Ballinasloe.

Coiste Scór Ros Comáin also wishes to extend a huge thank you to Elphin Community Centre, Elphin GAA, and Northern Harps Ladies GAA, for the wonderful hosting of the event, and also to sound man David Nugent, Fear a Tí Cian Diffley, and to the adjudicators for ensuring the event ran smoothly.

South Roscommon IRA photo update…

We published this old photograph last week after it was submitted by reader Tom Kenny. It shows members of the South Roscommon Brigade of the IRA at a commemoration ceremony at Custume Barracks, Athlone. Our first duty this week is to correct a typo from last week; the photo was of course not from 1916, but from a commemoration event in 1966! Tom Kenny had identified that 3rd from left in the back row is William Mulrooney, and that beside him is Patrick Hughes (both men from Ballygar). In the second row, John Fitzmaurice, also from Ballygar, is third from left. Some readers have kindly been in contact with more information (and to point out that the photo dates back to 1966). One reader wrote: “Luke Duffy, Clooncagh, Strokestown, is 4th from right in the back row. Luke Duffy was vice-O.C. of the 3rd Battn. and also vice-O.C. of the flying column of the south Roscommon

Man’s death ‘a tragic incident’

The HSE says it cannot comment on an ongoing Garda investigation following the death of a young man in Roscommon town last Sunday. The death is being treated as a tragic incident.

Gardaí said they are investigating all the circumstances following the discovery of a body of a man in his 20s in Roscommon town on Sunday, 26th of March 2023. The body was removed to the mortuary at Roscommon Hospital. Gardaí said that a post-mortem will take place at a later date, the results of which will determine the course of the investigation.

Gospel Reflection

Sunday 2 April

“All this has come to pass that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled,” Jesus says in today’s Gospel (see Matthew 26:56).

Indeed, we have reached the climax of the liturgical year, the highest peak of salvation history, when all that has been anticipated and promised is to be fulfilled. By the close of today’s long Gospel, the work of our redemption will have been accomplished: the new covenant will be written in the blood of His broken body hanging on the Cross at the place called the Skull.

CBS team from 1965…

Pictured is the Roscommon CBS team of 1965. Back row: Brother Lawlor, Seamus Martin, Sean Higgins (RIP), Seamus Brennan, Sean Finnegan (RIP), Owen McConn, Michael Conacur, Mark O’Gara, Tony McDermott. Front row: Luke Gregg, Gerry Fahy, Eamon Geraghty, Gerry Farragher, Jim Mulligan, Brian Mescal, John Gallagher, Ollie Hannon, Brian Neilan (RIP).

Roscommon Gaels, county minor champions 1962

Pictured is the Roscommon Gaels team that won the 1962 county minor championship. Back row (left to right):

Kennedy,

(left to right):

Michael Quigley, Raymond Mescal, Tommy Joe Carr, Denis Harlow, Jim Costello, John McDermott. The team was trained by Brother Dwyer. Five members of this team also won senior county medals that year with Roscommon Gaels. They were Anthony Brophy, Raymond Mescal, Gerry Flanagan, PJ Costelloe and Michael Costelloe. *Photo courtesy of Gerry Flanagan. This photo also features in Gerry’s recent book ‘Playing Against the Wind’ in which he reflects on growing up in Roscommon, his lifetime involvement in the GAA in Roscommon and Meath, and much more. Proceeds from sales of the book have been going to the Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre. ‘Playing Against the Wind’ is available on buythebook.ie.

In His Passion, Jesus is “counted among the wicked,” as Isaiah had foretold (see Isaiah 53:12). He is revealed definitively as the Suffering Servant the prophet announced, the long-awaited Messiah whose words of obedience and faith ring out in today’s First Reading and Psalm.

The taunts and torments we hear in these two readings punctuate the Gospel as Jesus is beaten and mocked (see Matthew 27:31), as His hands and feet are pierced, as enemies gamble for His clothes (see Matthew 27:35), and as His enemies dare Him to prove His divinity by saving Himself from suffering (see Matthew 27:39–44).

He remains faithful to God’s will to the end. He does not turn back in His trial. He gives Himself freely to His torturers, confident that, as He speaks in today’s First Reading, “The Lord God is my help . . . I shall not be put to shame”.

Destined to sin and death as children of Adam’s disobedience, we have been set free for holiness and life by Christ’s perfect obedience to the Father’s will (see Romans 5:12–14, 17–19; Ephesians 2:2; 5:6).

This is why God greatly exalted Him. This is why we have salvation in His name. Following His example of humble obedience in the trials and crosses of our lives, we know we will never be forsaken. We know, as the centurion realizes today, that truly this is the Son of God (see Matthew 27:54).

-Scot Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

The Castlerea Celtic U-12 players and management pictured ahead of their huge U-12s’ National Cup quarter-final match against Shamrock Rovers last Saturday in Lecarrow. The Castlerea team were defeated 5-0 but can reflect with great pride on a tremendous campaign. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Conor and Jack Bolger with Lucy and Emily Devine flying the flag for Castlerea at last Saturday’s U-12s National Cup quarter-final between Castlerea Celtic and Shamrock Rovers in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Tommy Dolan, Brian Kerrigan, Michael Donnellan, Tom Callery, Tom O’Connor, Jackie Mugan, Michael

Michael Hanlon, Anthony Brophy, Tommy Grealy, George Kennedy, Michael Costello. Front row

Frank Fullard, Eamon Lalor, Gerry Flanagan, PJ Costelloe,

Ukrainian ambassador to lead Easter Parade

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Organisers of the Strokestown Easter Parade are hoping that the Ukrainian Ambassador to Ireland Gerasko Larysa will join Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Tom Crosby in leading this year’s parade. Plans are well advanced for the event which takes place on Easter Sunday at 3 pm.

The parade committee has also acknowledged the staging of the County

Fleadh Cheoil in Strokestown on Easter weekend.

In a statement to the Roscommon People this week, a spokesperson for the committee said: “Plans are well advanced for Strokestown’s Annual Easter Parade which takes place on Easter Sunday at 3 pm.

“The committee is hoping that the Ukrainian Ambassador along with Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Tom Crosby, will be special guests on the day.

“The parade will also acknowledge the presence of the County Fleadh in the town for Easter weekend. The official opening of Fleadh will take place directly after the parade.

“The Strokestown Development Association looks forward to working with County Board of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann to create a very positive weekend for the Strokestown region.

“The parade will just be finished by 4 pm and people will be able to watch the Connacht Senior Football Championship clash between Roscommon and Mayo in the various pubs and the Percy French Hotel. There will be lots of traditional music also”.

A €250 top prize is among the number of prizes on offer to national and secondary schools who take part in the parade.

“Schools do not have to have every member marching in the parade; a

representative group from school will suffice,” the spokesperson said.

“If your school has had any type of success recently then you are entitled to enter this competition”.

The committee has promised “lots of surprises” on Easter Sunday and confirmed that Strokestown Park House will also be open to the public. Floats for the parade can be entered up to Good Friday, with all floats free of charge.

“The Development Association are very grateful to the business people of the town and region plus Roscommon County Council who continue to sponsor the event. The event simply could not run without those people.

“Any information required by the public is available by contacting 071-96 33759, 0871668775 or emailing SCDA bawnst91@gmail. com,” the spokesperson concluded.

Strokestown’s Annual Easter Parade

Takes place on Easter Sunday at 3pm.

The Parade will just be finished by 4pm and people will be able to watch the Championship clash between Roscommon and Mayo in the various pubs and Percy French Hotel on TV screens.

The School Section of the Parade is kindly sponsored by Barna Waste and SCDA.

FLASHBACK: Pictured at the 2019 Strokestown Easter Parade were Amy, Savanna and Chloe Butler. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

FLASHBACK: Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade in 2019 were Sinead Keane, Sinead McDermott, Claire Keane, Jamie and Daniel Larkin. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Best wishes and every success to Strokestown Easter Parade and Roscommon County Fleadh from

Compton’s Central Bar

Busy weekend ahead in Strokestown!

It promises to be a busy weekend in Strokestown with the town’s Easter Parade and the County Fleadh Cheoil both taking place there across the Bank Holiday weekend.

It was confirmed last month that the town’s Easter Festival would be held at 3 pm on Easter Sunday despite a clash with the Connacht Senior Football Championship match between Roscommon and Mayo in Castlebar on the same day.

The Roscommon Town Easter Parade committee took the decision to switch their annual parade from the Sunday to Easter Monday in light of the game, but the Strokestown committee made an early decision to stay put.

Strokestown Community Development Chairperson Eugene Murphy confirmed the parade would be going ahead as usual.

“Strokestown Community Development Association wishes to acknowledge Roscommon Town Parade Committee who approached us with an arrangement that might have suited both parades going ahead on Easter Monday,” he said.

“However, because the Roscommon Parade would not be going ahead until 3 pm it would mean Strokestown would have to put its annual parade back to 5 pm and this would be too late.

“We are also having the County Fleadh in Strokestown on the Easter weekend and the two events always work very well together.

“We feel our decision is the correct one for Strokestown as already we have quite an interest in participation in the event.

“As an avid Rossie fan, I will certainly miss attending the match but I’m sure there will be a huge Roscommon contingent on the day.

“For those wishing to find out about the parade, please call Mary at Strokestown Community Development Office on 071-9633759 or 087-1668775/0871385821”.

Best wishes and every success to Strokestown Easter Parade and Roscommon County Fleadh from

Scoil Mhuire Strokestown

Best wishes and every success to Strokestown Easter Parade and Roscommon County Fleadh from

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Throwback: Young spectators pictured enjoying last year’s Easter Parade in Strokestown. Pic: Mick McCormack

Throwback: Members of Sliabh Ban Athletics Club pictured taking part in last year’s Strokestown Easter Parade. Pic: Mick McCormack

Throwback: Strokestown GAA Club pictured taking part in last year’s Strokestown Easter Parade.

Pic: Mick McCormack

Throwback: The ‘Strokestown Darkness Into Light’ float pictured during last year’s Strokestown Easter Parade. Pic: Mick McCormack

Strokestown to host Fleadh Cheoil 2023

This year’s Roscommon County Fleadh Cheoil will take place in Strokestown over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend (Friday, April 7th to Monday, April 9th).

Strokestown has a long history of hosting great Fleadheanna and many have great memories of music, singing and dancing sessions.

This year’s events start with a Ceili on Good Friday night with music by ‘Rise the Dust’ at 9 pm in The Percy French Hotel (refreshments and raffle on the night).

Saturday night is awards night, where many young people will be honoured by the County Board for their achievements at recent All-Ireland fleadheanna, starting at 7 pm.

Emily Ni Chaithain (Elphin), Diarmuid Pléimeann (Roscommon), Aoife Ni Chonghaile (Roscom-

mon), Patrick Mullooly (Athlone), Emma Benson (Keadue) and Clodagh Daly (Keadue) will receive recognition on the night.

A special presentation for a lifetime of dedication to Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann will be presented to Oliver McCabe and Frances Gaffney of Keadue branch respectively. Tickets for the event can be purchased from County Secretary Catherine Hanly (087- 2649893).

Strokestown will be a hive of activity on Sunday as the annual Easter Parade will draw hundreds of spectators to the town, and this will be followed by the official opening of Fleadh 2023 by two of Roscommon’s finest exponents of traditional music, Catherine and Johnny McEvoy, who both have deep Strokestown connections.

Catherine and John will

also assist the County Board in awarding this year’s Gradam Award to recipient Tom Hanly.

Tom, who has a long association with Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann in Strokestown and the county, has also been an integral key in promotion of traditional Irish music in Strokestown with monthly sessions in his pub.

It is envisaged that the town will be a hive of activity of culture and colour on Easter Sunday. This year’s Fleadh will close on Easter Monday with competition day in the local secondary school. Competitors from all over the county will compete in Music, Singing, Dance, Storytelling, and Comhrá Gaeilge to qualify to the Connacht Fleadh in Ballina in July.

John McEvoy. Catherine McEvoy.

The Donoghue brothers from Tulsk pictured during last year’s County Roscommon Fleadh in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Dessie McCallion, Jim Sharkey and George Eggleston pictured during last year’s County Roscommon Fleadh in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Patsy Hanly and Dessie McCallion pictured at last year’s County Roscommon Fleadh in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Strokestown alive with the sound of music this Easter weekend!

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Chairperson Tomás Mac Seighin has said that scores of talented musicians, singers, and dancers will descend on Strokestown for the County Fleadh over the Easter weekend.

“The County Fleadh will start on Good Friday and finish up on Easter Monday and it promises to be a busy four days,” he said.

“On Friday we have the Fleadh Ceili and on Saturday there will be a special awards ceremony to honour people who have distinguished themselves in Comhaltas.

“The official opening takes place on Sunday in conjunction with the Easter Parade and at that there will be a Gradam Award presented to Tom Hanly for distinguished service and promotion of music”.

Monday is competitions day and Tomás says the Strokestown Fleadh offers competitors a pathway to the National event later this year.

“The competitions take off at 10 am on Monday

and continue all day. There will be singing, dancing and storytelling and the rest,” he said.

“The qualifiers from the Roscommon Fleadh will go to the Connacht Fleadh in Ballina in July, and anyone who qualifies from there will go to the All-Ireland Fleadh in Mullingar which takes place in middle of August.

Roscommon is a stepping stone for anyone who wants to get to an AllIreland – it’s the first step on the journey!”

Tom says the County Fleadh is still recovering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Covid has had a negative impact on it over the last couple of years but we’re getting slowly getting back to where we were before Covid. There will be a lot of local people at it this year and quite a number of people come from the north of Ireland too,” he said.

Long-time Comhaltas official Liam Ó Cuinneagáin says Strokestown has always been a popular venue.

“Strokestown has held

Pic: Mick McCormack more County Fleadhs than any other town or village in the county. It has always traditionally been held on the Easter weekend and while there was some talk of changing it a few years ago, it was

decided to keep it on those dates,” he said.

“As Tom says, it attracts a lot of visitors from both Dublin and the north of Ireland. This is their weekend out; it’s the long weekend!”

Best wishes and every success to Strokestown Easter Parade and Roscommon County Fleadh from

There will be sessions taking place in venues throughout Strokestown on Easter weekend and the organisers say that visitors from both near and far are ensured of a warm Roscommon welcome.

Ryan Steel specialises in the fabrication and erection of structural steel for industrial, commercial, residential and agricultural buildings.

Flashback: Matt Molloy and John Carty pictured during the 2019 County Fleadh Cheoil in Ballaghaderreen.

Pitch Perfect: Unique networking event planned for local businesses

Business owners, social enterprises and community groups across Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo are being invited to a unique networking event in Claremorris next month.

‘REBOOT’ is running a free event on communication, networking andpPitching, which will be hosted by broadcasting veteran, Ciaran Mullooly. These are key skills for all owner/managers of small businesses and leadership teams in so-

cial enterprises. The expert speaker for this masterclass is Noel Davidson, Director of Training at The Entrepreneurs Academy, who trained extensively in the USA. Noel will draw on personal experience across a variety of sectors to share his top tips on how to ace your pitch and make networking a key tool in your business.

In addition, Donal Byrne, MD Big Red Barn will share his entrepre-

neurial journey and explain how he grew his business to over 50 employees in the highly competitive and topical modular build sector. The panel discussion will discuss the myriad of challenges facing business and social entrepreneurs in today’s economic climate. Guiding the proceedings will be MC Ciaran Mullooly. Ciaran spent almost 30 years as RTÉ’s Midlands Correspondent and is a familiar and popular presence across the

Midlands and Connacht. Since retiring Ciaran has become even more involved in community activities and projects. He is a key member of the Lough Ree Access for All programme which provides people with mobility issues access to pleasure boat excursions on Lough Ree.

Sue O’Toole, SWMDC Senior LEADER Enterprise Officer said: “We are excited to launch our latest REBOOT event to support

Plenty of local winners at Irish Restaurant Awards

A number of local businesses in the hospitality sector were celebrating on Tuesday night as pubs and restaurants were honoured at the Irish Restaurant Awards which took place in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sligo.

The Old Stone House in Ballinlough claimed the Roscommon award for Best Restaurant and the Best Chef gong. The Best Gastro Pub award went to Hester’s Golden Eagle in Castlerea while Best Customer Service was awarded to Regan’s Restaurant, Roscommon.

The event, also known as the ‘Food Oscars’, saw Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry claiming the Best Hotel and Guesthouse Award as well as the Best Restaurant Manager award for Audit Navrish, Rogue & Co, Roscommon town winning the Best Casual Dining Award, and Pub of the Year going to Coffey’s of Lecarrow for

rural business, social enterprises and community groups in Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo.

“This event is the culmination of 18 months of REBOOT where we have helped over 300 organisations cope with and recover from the impacts of Brexit and C19. This event promises to be highly engaging, informative and of practical assistance to organisations across Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo.

Admission is free but spaces are

limited and booking is essential. We look forward to meeting you there”.

The event takes place at the McWilliam Park Hotel Claremorris on April 19th from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and will be followed by a networking lunch. Attendance is free, but spaces are limited – to book, visit bit.ly/rebootandnetwork or search for Reboot & Network on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.

My Kitchen by Sham Hanifa in Sunday Times’ Best Restaurants List

Carrick-on-Shannon restaurant My Kitchen by Sham Hanifa has been included in the Sunday Times’ 100 Best Restaurants List for 2023.

President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Paul Lenehan pictured with staff of Coffey’s Bar, Lecarrow including Alan Martin, proprietor Sarahjane Coffey, Noel Galvin. the second year running.

The Best Newcomer Award went to My Kitchen by Sham Hanifa in Carrickon-Shannon, who also took home the Best World Cuisine award.

Among the other awards:

Athleague’s Les Petites Tartres was named as Best Café; Kilronan Castle claimed ‘Best Wine Experience; Fusion Roscommon won Best Emerging Irish Cuisine; Bastion K2tchen was awarded the ‘Best Free

From’ award and ‘Innovator of the Year’; Benny’s Deli in Castlerea won ‘Best Sustainable Practices’, and the Local Food Hero award went to the Allen Family at Castlemine Farm.

The Roscommon winners

Kroll, an independent provider of risk and financial advisory solutions, revealed today in its new survey, fresh fears that restaurants and other businesses in the hospitality sector may be forced to close in the coming 12 months as a result of inflationary and staffing pressures.

now go forward to compete in the regional and All-Ireland finals, the winners of which will be announced at the Irish Restaurant Awards All-Ireland Final on Monday, May 15th in the Clayton Hotel, Dublin.

The Kroll Business Sentiment Survey of Restaurants & Hospitality, carried out in partnership with the Restaurants Association of Ireland, revealed 67 per cent of businesses are concerned for the coming year.

These findings follow news of the

Meanwhile, Library Street in Dublin has taken the number one spot in the Top Ten Hottest Dining Rooms list, followed by Goldie in Cork and Big Mike’s in Blackrock, Dublin.

This year’s list focuses on the most exciting and vital rooms to eat modern and creative Irish cooking. The Top Ten Hottest Dining Rooms capture the spirit of modern Irish cooking and hospitality using local Irish ingredients found close to their location.

Compiled by renowned food critics John and Sally McKenna, this is their fourth decade covering the 100 Best Restaurants in Ireland and their seventh edition with The Sunday Times. The full list of the 100 Best Restaurants is available in The Sunday Times on Sunday, March 26th.

extension to the reduced VAT rate for the hospitality sector, but at a time when businesses are no longer able to warehouse additional revenue liabilities.

Over a quarter (27 per cent) of businesses surveyed, which availed of the tax warehousing

scheme, indicated they would not have been able to pay the associated debt in the next 12 months if the Revenue’s Tax Warehouse Scheme wouldn’t have been extended, while a further 12 per cent were unsure if they would be able to repay the debt.

Over 65% of restaurants fear closure in next 12 months

Slightly larger numbers of stock presented for sale this week and despite the continued inclement weather conditions trade and prices have been maintained.

The weanling rings witnessed excellent demand this week with bulls making up to €4.32 a kilo while the heifer weanlings made up to €4.24.

The heifer ring witnessed good demand for both stores and forward lots with lots topping out at €2,170, while the dry cow ring noticed a top price of €3,170 paid or €3.25 a kilo.

The calf ring, with increased lots on offer, witnessed excellent demand for the AAX and Hex calves with a variance in price for the dairy calves depending on quality. Breeding stock made up to €2,120.

Cows with calves at foot made up to €2,050 with springers topping out at €2,120. Aberdeen Angus, Hereford and Limousin cross calves made from €150 to €380, dairy cross calves made from €2 to €50 with continentals making from €180 to €380. Runners made from €400 to €1,210 for continental lots.

There were 120 bullocks on offer this week with forward lots making up to €2,150 with the top-quality stores making up to €3.60 a kilo.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (March 30th) when we have our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

All sales commence at 11 am.

Sample prices for heifers: BBX 360kgs €1410, Sim 395kgs €1340, Ch 365kgs €1300, AAx 495kgs €1630, Lm 470kgs €1570, BBx 450kgs €1570, Ch 630kgs €2170, Ch 580kgs €2090, Ch 600kgs €1990.

Dry cows: Ch 975kgs €3170, Lm 750kgs €2260, Sim 765kgs

€2230, Ch 715kgs €2200, Lm 715kgs €2160, Fr 470kgs €950, Fr 635kgs €1410, Hex 715kgs €1630, AA 670kgs €1800.

Weanling bulls: Ch 290kgs €1100, BBx 290kgs €1100, Ch 240kgs €990, Ch 253kgs €980, Lm 245kgs €930, Lm 225kgs

€920, BBx 395kgs €1400, Lm 485kgs €1470, Lm 355kgs

€1390, Ch 315kgs €1360, Lm 310kgs €1280, AA 335kgs

€1160.

Weanling heifers: BBx 290kgs €1100, Ch 270kgs €1080, Ch

255kgs €1010, Ch 290kgs €990, Lm 215kgs €900, Lm 240kgs

€850, AA 315kgs €900, AA 365kgs €1140, Lm 325kgs €1380.

Bullocks: Lm 470kgs €1690, Au 490kgs €1540, Ch 510kgs €1840, Lm 540kgs €1810, AA 530kgs €1700, Ch 565kgs €1950, Ch 610kgs €2090, BB 625kgs €2070, AA 685kgs €2150.

Roscommon MART WATCH

There was a good entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s special bullock and heifer sale with a very strong trade for all classes.

Bullocks fetched from an average of €3.25 per kilo up to €3.84 per kilo. Heifers fetched from an average of €3.02 per kilo up to €3.67 per kilo. There was also a large entry of dry Cows and they made an average of €2.62 per kilo up to €3.43 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

There was a good entry of top-quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening last with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers. Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.26 per kilo up to €3.92 per kilo, while heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.20 per kilo up to €4. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active. We had a larger number of sheep on offer at our weekly sale of lambs and cast ewes. Prices for finished hoggets peaked at €164. The tops for stag ewes fetched €220. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is Wednesday next (5th) at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www. livestock-live.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 805kgs €2,760, Lim X 895kgs €2,720, Char X 860kgs €2,660, Lim X 850kgs €2,640, Char X 865kgs €2,630, SAX 860kgs €2,560, BAX 840kgs

€2,520, Lim X 770kgs €2,340, Char X 735kgs €2,300.

Bullocks: Char X 560kgs €2,150, Char X 685kgs €2,610, Lim X 710kgs €2,600, Lim X 740kgs €2,530, Char X 645kgs

€2,400, Lim X 690kgs €2,360, Char X 665kgs €2,280, Char X 630kgs €2,260, Lim X 615kgs €2,240, Char X 625kgs

€2,230, Char X 580kgs €2,200, Char X 600kgs €2,180, Char X 605kgs €2,160, Char X 585kgs €2,150, Char X 560kgs

€2,120, Lim X 570kgs €2,010, Char X 540kgs €1,940, Char X 585kgs €2,100, Char X 575kgs €2,090, Char X 510kgs

€1,780, Char X 530kgs €1,880.

Heifers: Char X 480kgs €1,760, Lim X 575kgs

€1,970, Char X 585kgs €1,890, Char X 570kgs €1,880, Char X 580kgs €1,870, Lim X 555kgs €1,790, Char X 550kgs €1,750, Char X 535kgs €1,720, Char X 530kgs €1,700, Char X 505kgs

€1,680, Char X 480kgs €1,670, Char X 460kgs €1,650, Char X 455kgs €1,570, BBX 460kgs €1,560, Lim X 495kgs €1,600, Lim X 460kgs €1,540, Lim X 485kgs €1,570, Char X 450kgs

€1,500, Char X 435kgs €1,470, Lim X 430kgs

€1,440, Char X 400kgs €1,400.

Weanling heifers: Char X 310kgs €1,240, Char X 365kgs

€1,450, Lim X 355kgs €1,290, Char X 325kgs €1,270, Lim X 320kgs €1,270, Lim X 305kgs €1,160, Char X 355kgs €1,290, Char X 310kgs €1,160, Char X 295kgs €1,130, Char X 290kgs

€1,100, Char X 285kgs €1,080, Char X 265kgs €950.

Weanling bulls: Char X 325kgs €1,290, Char X 530kgs

€1,980, Char X 460kgs €1,730, Lim X 405kgs €1,500, Char X 395kgs €1,480, Lim X 390kgs €1,480, Char X 370kgs €1,380, Char X 325kgs €1,280, Char X 295kgs €1,110, Lim X 290kgs

€1,070, Char X 285kgs €1,060, Lim X 420kgs €1,560.

Finished hoggets: 63kgs €164, 62.9kgs €162, 53kgs

€160, 60kgs €160, 51.7kgs €160, 57kgs €158, 56.6kgs €156, 53.9kgs €156, 55kgs €155, 50.4kgs €155, 48.9kgs €151, 48.4kgs €151, 49kgs €147, 46kgs €143.

Teagasc to hold organic farm walk in Boyle

< ENDA O’HART DRYSTOCK ADVISOR, TEAGASC CASTLEREA

With interest in organic farming increasing recently, Teagasc has decided to hold an organic farm walk on the farm of James Beirne, Rusheen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, on Wednesday, April 5th, at 2 pm.

The purpose of the walk will be to provide technical information for existing organic farmers and for farmers that may be thinking of going organic in the future.

People attending the walk should gather in Croghan village (F52 X376) at 1.45 pm, where a bus will be provided to bring you to the farm and back.

There will be four stops on the day. The first stop will deal with housing on organic farms. Many farmers that joined organics last year still have some work to do on their housing before the deadline of next winter, so this stop should prove useful. There are requirements around space allowances per animal and

the requirement that 50% of the animal area comprises of a solid floor bedded area.

The second stop will deal with how to grow a crop of silage and how to maximise the quality of this silage crop. The role of red clover silage in providing high yields of top quality silage will also be discussed. There will be discussions around doing a fodder budget as it is hugely important that organic farmers are aware of what their silage requirements will be and what silage yields they can expect.

The third stop will deal with soil fertility on organic farms. The role of soil fertility is really important if a farmer wants to operate a productive system. This stop will discuss the requirement for regular soil testing to monitor changes over time, the importance of correcting soil pH, testing organic manures for nutrient content and targeting the correct time and locations for spreading slurry/FYM.

The fourth and final stop

ICSA: Sheep farmers need €8.30/kg to survive

Speaking at the Sheep Crisis meeting in Carrick-on-Shannon on Tuesday, March 21st, ICSA Sheep Chair Sean McNamara called for farmers to be paid €8.30 per kg for lambs in order for them to keep producing.

“Sheep farmers have been producing at well below the cost of production for too long and it has caused havoc in the sector. That is why ICSA is looking for a rescue package for sheep farmers – but the fact remains that processors too must play their part and pay farmers a price that takes our hugely inflated input costs into consideration and actually covers the cost of production,” he said.

The ICSA is campaigning for a €50 million emergency aid package for sheep to be funded through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.

The meeting was also addressed by Joe Burke Senior Manager Meat and Livestock, Bord Bia; Seamus McMenamin Sector Manager Meat and Livestock, Bord Bia, and Oliver Crowe of CC Agricultural Consultants.

Golden calls for €90 per cow

IFA Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden said the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme scheme is an important first step in support of suckler farmers but is only the start.

Mr Golden said the Minister for Agriculture

Charlie McConalogue was widely quoted in his interviews following Budget ’23 last October,

will deal with weed control on organic farms. Organic farmers do know that they will have to accept a small level of weeds on their farms but there are actions that can be carried out to lessen the weed burden. The main focus here will be on rush control. There

Farming Desk

will also be a board on animal health as it is important that organic farmers minimise the use of veterinary treatments.

We look forward to seeing you all at the farm walk. For more information, contact the Teagasc Castlerea office on 094 9620160.

The association says the Government must now set out where the full €1.1 billion is being allocated or whether it is going back to the EU.

IFA President Tim Cullinan recently raised the issue with Tánaiste Micheál Martin at meeting of the Brexit Stakeholder Forum.

‘Minister cannot stand over delayed payments’

promising a further €90/cow in the BEEP-s replacement scheme.

“A fully-funded BEEP-s scheme with €90/cow, along with the SCEP scheme, has the potential to return €240/cow on the first 22 cows on suckler farms,” he said.

“This would be a critical support for the sector to help arrest the decline in suckler cow numbers and support this low-income vulnerable sector from the input cost volatility which the sector cannot absorb”.

Government must come clean on Brexit fund – IFA

The IFA has said the Government must ‘come clean’ on where the €1 billion Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund has been allocated.

An IFA delegation met with the Department but according to officials only €50 million is going towards primary agriculture.

IFA President Tim Cullinan said the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue “cannot stand idly by while his officials railroad through changes which will mean up to a month’s delay in some farm payments”.

The Department recently met with IFA and other farming associations to negotiate a new Farmers’ Charter and proposed to significantly delay payments for this year. These proposals were objected by the IFA who accuse the Department of writing to farmers advising of new payment dates in spite of this.

“The Charter process is based on mutual respect and officials at the meeting made no attempt to take on board the points made by the IFA delegation,” he said.

The IFA President said the workings of Charter meetings cannot be undermined by this approach and he said the Minister must intervene.

“We will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Minister to address the situation and avoid a potential collapse in negotiations,” he said.

IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe, who led the IFA delegation, said an independent Chair to manage negotiations is needed.

Meanwhile, Rural Development Chair Michael Biggins said farmers, particularly those in the vulnerable sectors, simply cannot afford any delay in farm payments.

Pictured is Enda O’Hart (Drystock Adviser, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon).

Teagasc is holding an organic farm walk in Boyle next Wednesday to provide technical information about organic farming.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

Neil Delamere brings new show to Roscommon

Award-winning comedian

Neil Delamere returns to Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday, May 11th, with his new stand-up show, ‘Delamerium’.

Delamere is one of the top acts working in the Irish comedy scene today, well known to audiences for his regular television appearances on RTÉ and the BBC, as well as his hilarious sell-out stand-up tours, and he is always a firm favourite with Roscommon audiences.

Described as a ‘master of stand-up’ by The Scotsman and a ‘wryly brilliant live performer’ by The Sunday Times, he is best known for quick-witted appearances on myriad panel shows and his hilarious live stand-up tour. He is one of the top acts working in the Irish comedy scene today, having presented

Neil Delamere’s Just For Laughs, Eureka! The Big Bang Query and Republic of Telly for RTÉ.

Neil has also appeared on Richard Osman’s House of Games and The Michael McIntyre Show on BBC, as well as The World Stands Up and Live At The Comedy Store on Comedy Central. He’s also been a permanent panellist on BBC NI’s The Blame Game since the show’s inception.

In addition to writing and presenting award-winning TV documentaries on the Vikings and St. Patrick, Neil starred in the BBC mockumentary Soft Border Patrol, with his sketches subsequently garnering in excess of three million views online. He’s performed all over the world including at the Edinburgh, Montreal and Melbourne

All Ireland Confined Drama Finals’ draw in Glenamaddy on Sunday

Anticipation is building in Glenamaddy as the town prepares to take centre stage as proud hosts of the Bostik All Ireland Confined Drama Finals 2023 under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland.

This exciting opportunity has been met with great approval by the festival committee, business people, community groups, and the many theatre lovers in Glenamaddy and the surrounding areas. It will be the third time that Glenamaddy has hosted this prestigious event.

The upcoming All Ireland Confined Drama Finals is the culmination of the nine best productions from 35 preliminary festivals all over Ireland. It will be a momentous occasion for Glenamaddy when these successful groups arrive to perform next month to compete for the ultimate prize.

The draw to determine what night each group will perform takes place in the Town Hall Theatre in Glenamaddy at 2 pm this Sunday, April 2nd

festivals, where his shows have amassed multiple five-star reviews.

Tickets for ‘Delamerium’

are priced at €26 and are available now from the box office on 09066 25824 and at roscommonartscentre.ie.

At the time of going to press, four of the groups have booked their places at the Bostik All Ireland Confined Drama Finals, with the remaining contenders battling it out for the five coveted remaining spots. The committee looks forward

to welcoming the first of the qualified groups showcasing their respective productions to Glenamaddy: The Clontarf Players, for their performance of ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ by Oscar Wilde, Kilmuckridge Drama Group for their performance of ‘Sive’ by John B. Keane, Salmon Eile for their performance of ‘The Pitchfork Disney’ by Phillip Ridley, and The Glenamaddy Players for their performance of ‘Proof’ by David Auburn.

Glenamaddy Community Centre will be transformed into a wonderful theatre with generous seating to cater for the large audiences expected over the ninenight spectacular. The festival committee are to be complimented on all their dedicated work to date and will deliver an outstanding event for all concerned.

The finals will run from Thursday, April 13th, to Friday, April 21st, inclusive. Doors open at 7.15 pm on performance nights, with curtain up at 8 pm. Following the finals, an awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 22nd in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy.

All nine nights are expected to be sellouts. So don’t miss out, get your tickets online now at glenamaddydrama.ie. The festival number is 086 2045896. Tickets are €15 (plus booking fee).

Roscommon Solstice Choir AGM reflects on a busy decade – with more to come!

The AGM of the Roscommon Solstice Choir was held recently in the Kilbride Community Centre, with a large number of people in attendance.

This choir was founded in 2013, the year of The Gathering, with the original intention of performing three concerts, and has gone from strength to strength over the intervening years. They have performed numerous concerts all over Ireland as well as shows in New York and London, and raised hundreds of thousands of euro for so many worthy causes and charities.

The outgoing chairperson Jimmy Hoban noted that the choir “stands by people who are in need and also stands by each other, which is very important for a community choir”. He praised their sense of professionalism and dedication, which has ensured that the group will celebrate their tenth birthday this year.

He proceeded to thank Andrew and Eimear Reynolds, the musical directors, all the choir members and their families, the back-

stage crew, their sponsors, and all the guests and musicians who had played with them over the years. He noted especially the members of the press and media, who had contributed in no small way to their success over the past ten years, and everyone in the various communities who had

shown their support.

The outgoing secretary Catherine Murray spoke of the impact of Covid-19 on the choir, but noted that they had “bounced back with a vengeance”. She said the choir had performed a number of excellent concerts recently, including for the Galway

Hospice in Galway Cathedral, with Roscommon native Johnny Carroll. The choir recorded a version of the classic Jim Reeves song ‘Whispering Hope’ with Johnny, and all proceeds from this also went to the Galway Hospice. In excess of €28,000 was raised in total.

May 2023 concerts

The choir is now officially booked for 2023, with the first series of concerts in May. Concerts will take place in Roscommon on May 7th, Cootehall on May 12th, Ballycroy on May 14th, Mohill on May 19th , and Drumlish on May 21st Christmas concert details

will be given at a later stage.

Officers elected A committee was also elected at the meeting. The following officers were elected – Chairperson: John F Hanley; Vice-chairperson: Marie Lough; Secretary: Jeanette Foley; As-

sistant Secretary: Kristen Kelly; Treasurer: Nathalie Wolde; PRO: Jimmy Hoban; Assistant PRO: Liam Byrne.

The meeting concluded with a big thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way to the choir’s outstanding success.

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

Pictured is award-winning comedian Neil Delamere, who will be performing in Roscommon Arts Centre this May.

Pictured at a recent meeting in Gleeson’s, Roscommon at which upcoming May 2023 concerts were discussed were members of Roscommon Solstice Choir.

RHS Home Care community event in Ballaghaderreen

RHS Home Care hosted a two-day Community Fun Event in Ballaghaderreen last Thursday and Friday.

RHS Home Care have been carrying out a needs analysis in Ballaghaderreen recently as an exercise aimed at gathering local people’s views on how the company could expand to benefit the town and region.

Having previously conducted a number of focus groups in the town and also run an online survey, the Community Fun Event was the final part of a process of meeting with locals, with RHS hosting fun social activities for people of

all ages. A report will be compiled from all of the information provided and used to guide the decisionmaking of the cooperative.

RHS Home Care is a nonprofit cooperative and has predominantly provided home care services to older people and people with disabilities for the past 28 years. With successful home care services being provided across counties Roscommon, Galway and Mayo, RHS Home Care are now looking to expand into other types of service provision to support local communities and people.

In maintaining the ethos of a co-op society, RHS Home Care are strongly invested in ensuring those who use their services have a voice in how the services are designed and shaped from conception.

The Community Fun Event saw people from all corners of the world, who reside in Ballaghaderreen, come join together at Duffy’s SuperValu to share their traditional foods, fun and talents with one another. The event was an opportunity for local people to meet with service providers in the town including An Garda Síochána, the Fire

Service, the Mobile Library, GRETB, and the Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed. With performances from St. Attracta’s National School Band, Barra O’Flanniagh with his group Slí na Croí, Segundo Flores and other local performers, all who attended were entertained throughout.

Patrick Towey, General Manager of RHS, said the event was a great success. Thanking everyone who attended, he added: “RHS Home Care Cooperative are ready to invest in the town. We will be guided in our decisions based on the results of the needs analysis”.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane pictured with her nephew Tadhg Earley at the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Soumya Ajayan and Shibin Rajan pictured with Circus Bear during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

RHS Homecare General Manager Patrick Towey pictured with Jimmy Johnston during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Thandekile Donga and Pauline Mbiba pictured at the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Aidan Mahon and Barra O’Flanniagh pictured at the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Charity Supporting Charity! RHS Homecare members pictured with members from the Ballaghaderreen ‘Darkness Into Light’ Charity during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mike and Jacob Phillips pictured at the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pia and Megan Towey pictured with Circus Bear at the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

RHS Homecare General Manager Patrick Towey, Sarah Callaghan, RHS Homecare Project Manager Heather McKenna and Sharon Conneely pictured during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Barra O’Flanniagh demonstrating some drumming techniques during his Drumming Workshop last Friday as part of the RHS Homecare Spotlight event in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Some young people enjoying themselves at last Friday’s RHS Homecare Spotlight event in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed members John Corrigan, Tommy Towey and Colm Flannery pictured during the RHS Homecare Spotlight event that took place in Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen last Friday. Pic: Kieran Croghan

All

PropertyPeople

Just one Oldwood home remaining with RE/MAX Team Earley

RE/MAX Team Earley are delighted to announce that they have just one residence remaining as part of the exclusive development of six three-bedroomed, semidetached, two-storey residences at Oldwood, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon.

The BER rating for this remaining property is A2, and the price is €299,500. These luxurious threebedroomed, two-storey, semidetached residences are finished to a high standard throughout, and comprise an area of approximately 1,200 square feet.

Features include a luxuriousstyle finish throughout, a sleek fitted kitchen with oven hob and extractor fan, an ensuite shower room for the master bedrooms, an elegant bathroom with tiled

floors and half-wall tiling, a highly efficient Panasonic heat source pump, air to water heating and central heating, A-rated energy efficiency, an external tarmac driveway, a fenced rear garden with spacious patio area, triple glazed UPVC windows, and ten-year homebond.

All of these newly-built executive homes qualify for the Help To Buy Scheme. Viewings for the remaining property are strictly by appointment only.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 0906626579, email teamearley@ remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie, or contact auctioneer Keith on 086-0848590.

County Ploughing Championships scheduled for Derrane this Sunday

< DAN DOONER

There was a good turnout at the launch of the 2023 Roscommon County Ploughing Championships in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey on Thursday night last. This year’s championships are scheduled to take place on the lands of the McDermott family at Hollywell, Derrane on Sunday (April 2nd), weather permitting.

Speaking at last Thursday’s launch, Chairperson of the County Ploughing Association, Padraig Nolan, thanked all sponsors including main sponsor Roscommon Mart.

He said the Roscommon Ploughing Championships were thirty years in existence next year, having started in 1994. “Some of the original members are still with us and that’s testament to this organisation and that they still tolerate us and we still tolerate them!”

Mr Nolan said the championships had travelled around County Roscommon over the last 30 years and thanked this year’s hosts, the McDermott family.

Paying tribute to the Roscommon Ploughing committee for 2023, he said: “The committee this year has a greater gender balance and is more youthful than at any time (over the years). It looks good for the future”.

Mr Nolan highlighted the impressive line-up this year and urged all those in attendance to “pray for good weather” ahead of Sunday’s event.

Wishing County Roscommon Ploughing Association every success

Vera Rattigan presenting a sponsorship cheque to Tommy Joe Hennigan during the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Flashback: A perfect furrow during the 2019 Roscommon County Ploughing Championships in Creggs. Pic: Mick McCormack

Members of the Roscommon Ploughing Association (and competitors) pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Best of luck to Roscommon Ploughing Association

Joe Folliard and Gerry Browne pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Women playing a central role in this year’s committee

< DAN DOONER

“Women have been central to the farming community for years. Their roles just haven’t always been visible,” says Roscommon Ploughing treasurer Martina Beirne.

The Ballinaheglish native has been active with the county ploughing committee for the last number of years. Her father Paddy was a founding member of the association alongside its current chairperson, Padraig Nolan.

Martina was secretary for four years prior to taking on the role of treasurer and she also works alongside Mr Nolan at the National Ploughing Championships.

“I joined as a member and started off in the novice competitions. I won both novice classes I entered which was a huge achievement for me,” she said.

Martina said she had planned to continue in the Farmerette class (which she won in 2016) and had even purchased a tractor before Covid-19 hit. Now, her son Dylan has taken up the mantle and will compete alongside Kate Hanley (daughter of John & Jacinta Hanley) in Sunday’s novice ploughing.

Martina, meanwhile, will have a crack at the Farmerette class and is hoping for a “good opening split”.

“It’s about keeping it good and straight after that and watching your ‘ins and outs’,” she says.

“I love it. My ploughing has always been good quality but then again I’ve always had good coaching!”

When it comes to female partici-

pation on farms and in ploughing, Martina believes encouragement is needed to break into what is a male-dominated world.

“I am acutely aware that female voices need to be amplified. The Ploughing Championships give us an opportunity to get involved. There are great examples including our outgoing chairperson Mary Conry-Candler and you saw how good our PRO Annmarie Lambert was at the launch,” she said.

Martina also highlights the success of Pauline Lavin, who took second place in the All-Ireland Junior Ladies’ Loy, as well as Deirdre Heavey who finished third, describing their achievements as “phenomenal”.

She says becoming a member of the ploughing association allows young volunteers the opportunity to develop skills such as team building, communication and organisation.

“I wouldn’t be able to sell the benefits of being a member enough,” she said.

“It’s a great way for young people, not just young women, to develop a wide range of skills as well as to develop any natural talents they already possess.

“As for the Ploughing Championships, it’s not all about the commercial and competitive side of things, there’s a great social side to it too. It’s a lovely event for people to come to and network or do business.

“It’s only since I’ve become involved that I’ve realised it’s not only farmers who go to the ploughing. According to the latest

National Ploughing Association figures, there’s a wide range of different age groups there each year”.

Martina and the committee are still inviting participants for the Novice class, which takes place this Saturday (April 1st). The treasurer has been quick to highlight the benefits of getting involved to both young and old, male and female, and says this Sunday will be the perfect showcase of all that’s good about agriculture and ploughing in

County Roscommon.

“We would welcome anyone who wishes to participate in the Novice match this Saturday. Contact roscommonploughing@gmail.com for further details or to express an interest,” Martina concluded. You’re guaranteed a warm welcome to Derrane this Sunday as well as some good coaching, and who knows…it might be the start of something special!

Roscommon Ploughing Association Committee members Martina Beirne (Treasurer), Pauline Lavin, Mary Conry-Candler and Annmarie Lambert (PRO) pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Treasurer of the Roscommon Ploughing Committee, Martina Beirne pictured with Paddy Beirne at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Amid weather concerns, committee to meet tonight

< DAN DOONER

The Roscommon Ploughing Championships committee will decide tonight on whether to go ahead with the event this Sunday or postpone until later in the month.

At the launch last Thursday night in Kilrooskey, organisers voiced concerns over the effect the recent poor weather would have on prospects of staging the event.

Those in attendance at last Thursday’s launch were told a meeting would take place this evening (Thursday) and would be followed by a second meeting tomorrow (Friday) with stewards.

The committee was however confident that the championships would go ahead on Sunday as planned provided the weather, as expected, improved towards the end of this week.

Chief Steward Tom Tighe,

meanwhile, has called for volunteers to help organise this year’s event.

“A lot of help is needed and we appreciate all the help we get. We’ll need help on Saturday getting everything ready and we’ll also need help on Sunday stewarding the event itself. We appreciate everyone who puts their name forward and we wish everyone success on the day,” he said.

Last year’s host, Michael Lambert, who is in charge of traffic management on Sunday, said a traffic plan would be in place around Derrane, Hollywell, Hicks Mill and up to Rattigan’s Pub.

“There will be a one-way system in operation past the site and out to Hicks Mill and Rattigan’s. This is going to inconvenience people and we’re sorry about that but we’ll do our best (to accommodate everyone),” he said.

Source: https://www.met.ie/weather-forecast/roscommon-town-roscommon

Best of luck to Roscommon Ploughing Association from

Best of luck to Roscommon Ploughing Association from

Tommy Dillon

Farm Buildings

Road

Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

Crosby

Ploughing Association thankful for local support

<

DAN DOONER

The Roscommon Ploughing Association has expressed its thanks to all those who have helped make this year’s event possible.

Speaking at the launch on Thursday last in Rattigan’s Pub, Treasurer Martina Beirne thanked this year’s hosts, the McDermotts, adding that it was important that funding and financial contributions were put back into the community.

She said the committee was engaging with local businesses and thanked them for their support, urging those present to “please support the businesses who support us”.

The aim of this year’s championships, she said, was to send Roscommon representatives forward for All-Ireland competitions while keeping the event itself “low-cost for families to enjoy”.

She said it was important to maintain the traditional side of what is the first agricultural event of the year and highlighted Gerry Browne’s garden exhibit this Sunday.

The treasurer said it was important to encourage new participants while involving younger people and creating a better gender balance. She said she had also written to businesses personally in order to highlight what is on offer this weekend.

On behalf of the committee, Martina Beirne thanked Rattigan’s Pub for hosting the launch and for their financial support as well as association members, volunteers, stewards and those in the local community for their help ahead of Sunday’s event.

Variety of classes this Sunday

There are a number of competitive classes in store at this Sunday’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships and Field Day in Holywell, Derrane.

Event PRO Annmarie Lambert detailed some of the classes on offer at last week’s launch, which include horse ploughing, tractor ploughing and loy ploughing championships.

Classes include: Open and Confined Horse; 2 Furrow Junior (Open and Confined); 2 Furrow Senior (Open and Confined); U-21 (Open and Confined); U-28 (Open and Confined); Farmerette (Open and Confined); 3 Furrow Standard; 3 Furrow Senior; Vintage 2 Furrow Mounted (Open and Confined); Vintage 2 Furrow Trailer (Open and Confined); U-21 Loy (Open and Confined); Senior Loy (Open and Confined); Junior Loy (Open and Confined); Best Furrow and Middle (Open and Confined); Reversible Competition.

All events will take place on the lands of the McDermott family at Holywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon.

Jimmy and Mary McDermott pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

‘Get the Child of Pragues out!’

McDermotts

‘honoured’ to be hosting this year’s event

< DAN DOONER

The 2023 Roscommon Ploughing Championships will take place on the lands of the McDermott family in Hollywell, Derrane this Sunday, April 2nd, weather permitting.

Speaking at Thursday’s launch in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey, Martin McDermott said both he and his wife Sharon were honoured to be hosting the event.

“I’d like to first welcome the ploughing committee and members to our community. As we can see, you travel in force!

I also want to thank the local people here for turning out. The support, well wishes and good luck messages mean a lot to us,” Mr McDermott said.

“As a family, it’s a huge honour to be representing our community – and our county too – because there will be many spectators coming into our small part of Roscommon. That’s a big thing”.

Mr McDermott said it was an opportunity to showcase the county’s youth, local communities, and local businesses. He also paid tribute to neighbours and friends for their support and called for some divine

intervention ahead of Sunday’s event!

“I’d like to thank Donal and Vera (Rattigan) for hosting us tonight and also the local community and those who have volunteered as stewards on the day. I’d also like

to thank my wife and kids for their support and for not thinking we were half-mad doing this!

“We just need the rain to stop and we need all the help we can get – so get the Child of Pragues out!”

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Roscommon Ploughing

Championship committee members Padraig Nolan (Chairperson), Martina Beirne (Treasurer) and Annmarie Lambert (PRO) pictured with this year’s host family Martin McDermott, Sharon McDermott and Jimmy McDermott at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Mary Conry-Candler and Michael Lambert pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

2023 ROSCOMMON PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS

End of Month Sale of Bullocks &

Friday, April 14th at 11 a.m.

Sale of Bullocks & Heifers

Also Dry Cows

Bookings accepted until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, 11th April - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Tuesday, April 11th at 4 p.m.

Sale of Weanlings

Bookings accepted until Thursday, 6th April at 5 p.m. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m.

Sheep Scanning Service available each Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Date for your Diary

Saturday, 15th April at 12 noon

Organic Sale

Bookings now being accepted

George Murray, Pauline Lavin and Paddy Beirne pictured in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey last Thursday at the launch of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Tom Tighe, Fred Dolan, Tony Conroy and Michael Lambert pictured in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey last Thursday at the launch of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pictured are (back row, l-r) George Murray, James Coffey and John Hanley with (front row, l-r) Pauline Lavin, Paddy Beirne and Martina Beirne during the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Folliard and Joe Kelly pictured in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey last Thursday at the launch of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Paddy Fox from Ballaghaderreen and Malachy Fleming from Athleague pictured in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey last Thursday at the launch of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Vera Rattigan presenting a sponsorship cheque to Tommy Joe Hennigan and Martina Beirne during the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Great family fun day in store on Sunday

There will be an added focus on fun for the whole family at Sunday’s 27th Roscommon Ploughing Championships and Field Day with free kids’ entertainment on the day.

Addressing the Roscommon Ploughing Championships launch on Thursday last, PRO Annmarie Lambert outlined some of the classes and activities taking place on the day.

“We are looking forward to welcoming to the 27th Roscommon Ploughing Championships and Field Day at an excellent site provided by the McDermott family,” she said.

“Our family fun day will start at 12 noon. We will have trade stands from local businesses, and with the support we have so far we hope to have a great selection of stands.

“This year we have tried to pay

particular attention to providing free kids’ entertainment. Some of the entertainment on the day will include face-painting, balloon modelling, the Wanderly Wagon, and Dinky Diggers. These will all be provided free of charge. We will also have live music and also a dance floor, weather permitting”.

Ms Lambert added that a number of attractions would be returning to the Championships.

“We are grateful to have a number attractions which come back year on year and always prove very popular among visitors,” she said.

“The Craft Village, Blacksmith, Tinsmith, wool spinning and basket weavers…we also have vintage clubs from around Roscommon who will display their vintage cars, tractors, and machinery. Roscommon Hunt will also stage time trials on the day,” she concluded.

Flashback: A scene from last year’s County Roscommon Ploughing Championships which took place in Lambert’s field in Rockfield. Pic: Mick McCormack

Sponsors ‘delighted to support’ this year’s event

A number of sponsors of this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships and Field Day were in attendance at last Thursday’s launch in Rattigan’s

Bar, Kilrooskey. The main sponsors this year are Roscommon Mart and manager Tony Conroy said the facility was delighted to support the

event. “We’re delighted to be here and to support the Roscommon Ploughing Championships. We wish everyone participating and all those involved the

most success and hopefully the weather will play ball,” he said.

“I’d like to acknowledge the McDermott family; without them the

Cllr. Tony WARD

event wouldn’t be happening”.

Mr Conroy highlighted the importance of tillage farming in County Roscommon and said it was important that young people are encouraged to take part in the county ploughing championships.

He said he hoped that sucklers, beef and ploughing could “go more hand in hand” adding that without the beef sector, farming in Roscommon would be decimated.

Mr. Conroy, who took over the reins at Roscommon Mart last year following the retirement of long-time manager Maura Quigley, said he was thankful for all the support and well wishes he has received.

“Without farming there would be no Roscommon Mart so we are delighted to be giving something back,” he added.

“30 years is a long time and hopefully the ploughing championships will be here for another 30 years”.

Martina Beirne (Treasurer), Tony Conroy (main sponsor) and Padraig Nolan (Chairperson) pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Ploughing Championships last Thursday in Rattigan’s Bar, Kilrooskey. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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• Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers

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FARMING

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FARMING

SILAGE FOR SALE: Silage bales for sale in Creggs area. €25 per bale. Tel: 086 8170126

< FOR SALE: Excellent quality square bales of hay, delivered in lots to suit. Ideal hay for sheep and calves. Call Tom: 086 2628439

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Husband and wife team offering the help you need at a price you can afford

Email: mopandmow@ icloud.com

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PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, James Boyle, am applying for permission for retention of alterations to a house previously granted under PD/01/810 and all associated site works at Keelty Td., Ballinatubber, Co. Roscommon. The primary alterations to the house as constructed consist of:

1. An attic conversion to habitable space,

2. The construction of a hipped roof.

3. Addition of one window on the first floor of the front elevation,

4. Addition of a door at ground floor and two windows on the first floor to the rear elevation,

5. Addition of two windows on the ground floor and three rooflights to the west side elevation,

6. Exclusion of one window and addition of one rooflight to the east side elevation and,

GF Ground Works

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Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

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7. Exclusion of one chimney. This planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Brandon OBrien Ltd. (Agent) Consulting Engineers Church Street, Roscommon Tel: 090 6625005

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Eoin Buckley and Lisa Mitchell hereby apply for permission for a new dormer extension to the existing rear elevation, associated attic conversion, alterations to existing roof to front elevation including new flat roof section and entrance canopy, new velux rooflights to front and side roof slopes, single storey extension to the rear of the dwelling and retention permission for alterations to permitted dwelling including relocation vehicular entrance and all associated internal alterations, elevational changes. drainage and ancillary works at an existing dwelling Charlestown Road, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon (F45 XD61)

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions of 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: Eoin Buckley and Lisa Mitchell

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Simon Coyle for Planning permission for the construction of 8 detached dwelling houses complete with the installation of a waste water treatment system/tertiary treatment and infiltration area, for demolition of one derelict building, for the provision of storm water attenuation/ connection to existing storm water drainage system, for the provision of a compensatory flood water storage area, for the provision of a public path fronting the site along the R357 road, for the provision of a refuse collection storage area, for the creation of a new entrance onto the public road, for the connections to the existing public utilities and all necessary landscaping/ ancillary siteworks at Carricknagat, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Magliocco Creative Design Ltd

Architects

Phone: 083 4265825.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Patrick and Oonagh McGreevy intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of the following: Retention of extensions and refurbishing works to existing dwelling. Replacement septic tank associated works and services at Derrane Road, Derrane, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd.

Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974

Mobile: 086 8115449

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I Maura Hughes intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to Retain Extension to rear of dwelling house, and conservatory to gable of dwelling house also two domestic storage sheds and all associated works at Carrigeen, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within a 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 subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Maura Hughes

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael Coyne intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Permission to construct (i) cattle underpasses with effluent storage tanks and farm roadway (ii) cattle underpasses with effluent storage tanks and all ancillary site works at Lisdaulan, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Aidan Kelly (ADPS) Agricultural Design & Planning Services Mobile: 085 7466211 (www.adps.ie)

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Beirne, intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the following development: To Construct a New 4 Bay Sheep Shed and a New Concrete Silage Base, together with all Associated Site Works at Corboley Td., Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without condition, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: P Durkan & Associates

Telephone: 071-9630037

Mobile: 086-1600385

Email: padraic.durkan1@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Hubert Maxwell, intend to apply for permission for development at Drummin, Peak, Tullaghan and Gortnagoyne townlands, Bellanagare, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the extraction and processing of limestone aggregate (quarry extraction area of 1.7 Ha.), to a depth of 83 mOD, for a 7 year period and all ancillary activities within an application area of 4.2 Ha.. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the planning application. The planning application, and Natura Impact Statement, 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Cathal O’Grady intends to apply for Permission to construct a three bay double slatted cattle shed on his lands at Carrownderry, Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed:

Cathal O’Grady

Podiatrist/Chiropodist Sarah Fleming

Sarah

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CRAVEN Michael

Abbeyville, Roscommon and Knockcroghery

(10th Anniversary)

Who died on 10th April 2013

CONNELLY Bridgie

Newtown, Glinsk

Who passed away on 21st February 2018 (5th Anniversary)

Rogers Funeral Directors

Rooskey

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

Mobile: 087 2365453

Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Sadly missed by his family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 31st March at 7pm.

WALSH MICK

(29th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather - Mick Walsh, Moher, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon who died on the 30th March 1994 There is a love a special love that is for you alone. There is a place deep in my heart that only you can own. You are not just a memory or part of my past, you are part of my life for as long as it shall last.

Forever loved and missed more every day by your loving wife Mary.

You always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care. A wonderful nature, warm and true, those are the memories We have of you.

Forever loved and missed more every day by your sons Micheal and Seamus, daughters Martina and Georgina, Declan, Marian and grandchildren.

We thought of you today with love but that was nothing new, we thought about you yesterday and the days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name, all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part, God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts. Always remembered by your family.

CONNELLY Miko

Newtown, Glinsk

Who passed away on 30th March 2000 (23rd Anniversary)

Just a prayer from the family who loved you, just a memory fond and true, in our hearts you will live forever because we thought the world of you Always remembered by your family.

CONNELLY

Noel

Ballinakill, Glinsk.

Who passed away on 3rd of April 2015 (8th Anniversary)

It doesn’t take a special day to bring you to our minds, for days without a thought of you are very hard to find. Those who mean the most to us are never really gone, for in our thoughts and in our hearts, their memory still lives on. Loved and missed by your wife Catherine and children Katie, Aoife and Michael.

Always in our hearts, forever in our thoughts and prayers. Always remembered by his sisters, brothers and families. Mass will be celebrated in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 2nd April at 10am.

COONEY

Sean

Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon and Clonee, Co. Dublin (9th Anniversary)

HIGGINS Rosaleen

Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 6th April 2018

SWEENEY Michael (Todd)

Lanesborough Road, and late of Corrigeen, Roscommon. (17th Anniversary)

MURRAY Séamus

Lisphelim, Knockcroghery & Galway Road, Roscommon. (35th Anniversary)

SHANNON Philomena

10 The Spinney, Abbeytown (8th Anniversary)

R.I.P.

Who passed away on the 29th March 2006. R.I.P.

In loving memory of Sean Cooney, who died 5th April 2014.

R.I.P.

Those we love don’t go away they walk beside us every day, and when old times we do recall it’s then we miss you most of all.

Always remembered by his loving family. Masses offered.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

THANKSGIVINGS

In our hearts your memory lingers, sweetly tender, fond and true, there is not a day, dear Rosaleen that we do not think of you.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Des and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in Dysart Church on Saturday, 1st April at 7.30pm.

UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY

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

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

The local paper!

Time may pass, and fade away but silent thoughts and memories stay. Will those who think of Michael today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by his wife Angela and family. Masses offered.

DUKE

Eileen Lanesboro Street, Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 1st April 2016 and her beloved husband Seamus who passed away on 22nd May 1971

In loving memory of Séamus who passed away on 30th March 1988.

It doesn’t take a special day, to bring you to our minds, for days without a thought for you are very hard to find. You always did your best, your heart was true and tender, you simply lived for those you loved and those you loved remember.

Remembered dearly by Phil and Fiona.

Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true, you did your best for all of us, we will always remember you.

Always loved and remembered by your husband Tony, sons Anthony and Paul and extended family.

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

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

MULDOON Vincent & Catherine (Kitty)

Emlaghroyan, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

“Ag Chriost an Siol Ag Chriost an Fomhair In Iothlainn De Go Gastar Sinn”

Always loved and sadly missed by Seamus, Frank, Declan, Mairead and Deirdre, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, other family members and friends.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 1st April at 10am.

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. . K.H.

No sadness can compare, to this, my precious brother. But today the choirs of angels sing, to welcome in another. There is no one else on earth, so special as you were to me. I hold on to you forever, my brother, in my heart and memory. We shared something so special, a bond so deep and true. Nobody else could ever make me smile as well as you. I know that we will meet again, I know this is not the end. Rest softly from now until that day, my brother, my best friend.

Remembered always by your sister, Geraldine.

LARKIN Anthony

St. John’s, Lecarrow. (13th Anniversary)

Sadly missed by your sister Marie Healy, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 1st April in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 10am.

FEENEY

Tommie

Ballyglass, Ballymacurley, Co. Roscommon (27th Anniversary)

Just a prayer from the family who loved you both. Just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you both. May the Lord support us all the day long ‘til the shadows lengthen and the evening comes. And the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over and our work is done. Then in his mercy may he grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest, and peace at the last Amen. All I ask is that you will remember us at Mass and Holy Communion.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday, 2nd April at 9.30am.

PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST

Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. H.B.

In loving memory of Tommie Feeney who passed away on 31st March, 1996 R.I.P.

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

Always remembered, sadly missed by his wife May and family.

Anniversary Mass in Ballinaheglish Church on Sunday, 2nd April at 11am.

In loving memory of Anthony who died on 31st March 2010

Out of our lives you may be gone, but in our hearts you will always belong.

Sadly missed by his family.

PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST

Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. L.S.

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Sports PEOPLE

Hurlers can complete stunning turnaround

Allianz NHL

Division 3A Final: Roscommon v Armagh on Saturday at Pairc Tailteann, Navan at 2 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon hurlers can complete a remarkable turnaround in Navan

on Saturday when they contest the Division 3A final after a campaign which saw manager Francis O’Halloran resign after just two games following a defeat to Louth at Dr Hyde Park.

Seamus Qualter’s appointment has proven a masterstroke by the County Board and now the team are just 70 minutes from promotion and some silverware, both of which looked extremely unlikely just a month ago.

This Saturday, Roscommon team will play an Armagh they defeated by no less than 20 points just three weeks ago at Dr Hyde Park. However, the Roscommon manager remains cautious.

“The game in Hyde Park a couple of weeks ago will have absolutely no bearing on what will happen in Navan on Saturday. We are expecting a tough battle and a close game,” Seamus Qualter told People Sport on Tuesday.

“Owen Kiernan is very doubtful for the match with a hamstring injury but Eamon Mulry is back fit and Hugh Rooney is also back training and we will be travelling to Navan determined to win the game. It would be very important to be promoted in the league ahead of what will be a tough championship campaign.

“We played Armagh a few weeks ago and we play them again on Saturday and then again in the championship so

U-20s face stern Sligo test

Eirgrid Connacht U-20 FC

Quarter-Final: Roscommon

v Sligo at Dr Hyde Park on Wednesday (April 5th) at 7 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s U-20 footballers have been handed a tough draw in the Connacht championship as they face the holders Sligo in Dr Hyde Park next Wednesday evening at 7 pm. Over the years a home draw against the Yeats County would be viewed as a great opportunity for Roscommon to advance. However, Sligo are the reigning minor and U-20 champions while Summerhill and St Attracta’s, Tubbercurry are the Connacht

Colleges ‘A’ and ‘B champions for 2023. So underage football is very strong in Sligo at the moment.

Roscommon manager Noel Dunning has also told the Roscommon People that preparations for the match have not been ideal.

“We have had a very disrupted build up to be honest. We have a lot of injuries and the bad weather has presented a lot of problems with regard to the availability of pitches,” he said.

“A lot of our potential starters are injured or doubtful for the game including Colm Neary, Shane McGinley, Ethan O’Reilly, Conor Hand and Caelim Keogh to name just a few, and that’s a major worry”.

Noel says Sligo will provide very dangerous opposition: “Sligo are a very strong team. They are well coached and well or-

GAA Results

5th & Mad - East Side, New York Division One

O’Rourke Cup

Pádraig Pearses 2-9 St

Faithleach’s 0-9

St Brigid’s 3-22 Fuerty 1-6

Western Gaels 3-19 Boyle 1-11

St. Dominic’s 1-10 Tulsk

Lord Edwards 0-4

Leydon Bros London

Division Two O’Gara Cup

Michael Glavey’s 1-16

ganised and we will be up against it. They will not fear coming to Dr Hyde Park either.

“Our chances rely on us coming up with a good performance on the night. We will need all our players performing at their very best to win it, and remember there is no back door or second chances so it’s all (decided) on the night,” he concluded.

There is no doubt that this will be a very difficult assignment for Roscommon but at Dr Hyde Park they will be hoping to win and qualify for a semi-final meeting with Mayo the following Wednesday in the Hyde once again. Prediction: Roscommon.

*We will have an exclusive report on the Roscommon v Sligo match in next week’s edition of the Roscommon People.

the teams will know each other well by the time this year is over. But all we want on Saturday is that the lads put in a big performance and do themselves justice on the day,” he concluded. It is very unlikely that there will be twenty points between the teams on Saturday but Roscommon have the momentum and it would be a surprise if they don’t prevail by at least five or six points.

Prediction: Roscommon.

Creggs 1-4

Castlerea St Kevin’s 4-9 St

Croan’s 1-8

Clann na nGael 0-10

Shannon Gaels 0-8

Kilmore 2-4 Pádraig

Pearses 0-7

Atlantis IPS Division

Three Tansey Cup

St Ronan’s 2-10

Strokestown 1-7

Oran 2-10 St Dominic’s 0-11

Western Gaels 6-12

Castlerea St Kevin’s 0-10

Sidero AFL Division Four

St Faithleach’s 4-5

Roscommon Gaels 1-7

GAA Fixtures

Friday, March 31st 5th & Mad - East Side, New York Division One O’Rourke Cup (8 pm)

At Kiltoom: St Dominic’s v St. Faithleach’s.

At Athleague: Fuerty v Western Gaels

At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Oran

Atlantis IPS Division Three Tansey Cup

At: Pairc Naomh Bearra: St Barry’s v Castlerea St Kevin’s. 8 pm

Saturday, April 1st

5th & Mad - East Side, New York Division One O’Rourke Cup

At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Elphin. 5 pm

Leydon Bros London Division Two O’Gara Cup

At Enfield: St Croan’s v St Brigid’s. 4 pm

At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Michael Glavey’s. 5 pm

At Kilmore: Kilmore v Creggs. 5 pm

At Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence: Éire Óg v Pádraig Pearses. 5 pm

At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Kilbride. 5 pm

Atlantis IPS Division Three Tansey Cup (5 pm)

At Strokestown: Strokestown v Oran

At Ardcarne Park: St Michael’s v St Aidan’s

At Davonna Park: Ballinameen v St Ronan’s

At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v Kilglass Gaels

Sunday, April 2nd

IPS Atlantis Division Three Tansey Cup

At St Dominic’s: St Dominic’s v St Joseph’s. 1 pm

AFL Division Five (Section A) (11.30 am)

At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v St Barry’s

At Davonna Park: Ballinameen v Tulsk Lord Edwards

39 Irish entries set for Aintree

Horses for Courses

There are 39 Irish-trained horses left in the latest acceptance stage for the Aintree Grand National out of a total of 57. With 29 in the top 40 guaranteed a run, the Irish will probably dominate the race. Elliott has 13 left in and WP Mullins six. The ante post favourite is Linda Russell’s Corach Rambler with the next six in the betting Irish-trained including Sean Mulryan’s Longhouse Poet at 12/1. After two near-misses at Cheltenham, trainer Martin Brassil could do with a change of luck as he prepares Longhouse Poet for another run next month having finished sixth last year under Darragh O’Keeffe.

Paul Nicholls’ dual King George winner, Clan Des Obeaux, will not run in the Aintree Bowl, which he won last year, and is out for the season. His last run was in the Gold Cup at Punchestown in April. The 11-Y-O is owned by Alex Ferguson, Paul Barber, and Ged Mason.

Weekend

action…

This week horseracing starts with two meetings, both national hunt, today at Limerick off at 1.40 pm and at Naas

Short putts

Athlone

starting at 1.57 pm.

Tomorrow (Friday), action is under lights on the all-weather at Dundalk, first race at 5.30 pm and over the jumps at Wexford, away at 4.40 pm.

On Saturday, racing is on the level at Bellewstown first race at 1.20 pm.

On Sunday, there are two meetings in Ireland with National fare at Downpatrick featuring the Ulster Grand National starting at 1.40 pm and on the flat at Leopardstown, with three Group races, away at 2 pm.

The Westmeath Foxhounds are holding a point-to-point meeting at Castletowngeoghan near Mullingar, first race 2 pm.

On Saturday, ITV racing is covering seven races, all on the flat, with four from Doncaster including the English Lincolnshire, and three from Kempton.

Review of the week

Broome, the Aidan O’Brien-trained 7-YO won last weekend’s Dubai Gold Cup, a Group 2 race, in Meydan under Ryan Moore. The Ballydoyle inmate set a new

by Tom Red

track record in just getting up on the line to beat the Charlie Appleby trained favourite Siskany by a neck. The Ascot Gold Cup in June is his next likely target. The present ante post favourite, Kyprios, also trained by O’Brien has met with a set back and is unlikely to run.

The first big race of the flat season, the Irish Lincolnshire, at the Curragh last Saturday was won by the English trained Lattam trained by William Haggas and ridden by Chris Hayes who got up on the line to beat the Ado McGuinness trained pair Saltonstall and Casanova by a short head and a neck. McGuinness also trained the 5th home No More Porter, two lengths further back.

Racing News

Rásaí BEO on TG4, have announced that they will have live coverage from the race meetings at Fairyhouse on Easter Saturday, April 8th, along with races from Cork, the Curragh on Bank Holiday Monday, May 1st with coverage from Down Royal and from Ballinrobe on Monday, May 29th.

Unwelcome news for Gordon Elliott

as Sam Ewing will probably miss the remainder of the season after breaking his arm in a fall off Poppy Rose at Musselburgh on Friday. Elliott’s yard is at present without Jack Kennedy, Jordan Gainford and Davy Russell who

SPORTS DESK With Dan Dooner

Convent in hunt for All-Ireland glory!

Angela Veldon was the winner of the Women’s competition on Sunday last with a score of 37 points. Catherine Fitzgerald (36) was runner-up and Key Delaney (35) finished third.

Last Tuesday’s (21st) 15-hole competition was won by Ann Geoghegan (31 points) with Maeve Davis second and Anne EganFarrell third. Tuesday’s 9-hole competition was won by Jeane McGowan (17 points) while the 97 Club went to Imelda Sheeran (24).

Carrick

Albert Hogg (38 points) won last Thursday’s Seniors’ competition in Carrick. Other results: Cat 1 Leo Kavanagh (32); Cat 2 Michael Delorey (35); Cat 3 Brendan Lynch (37); Front 9: Dermot Monaghan (19 points); Back 9: Liam O’Malley (18 points).

Carrick Golf Club has launched its ‘Masters Challenge’ for 2023. Sponsorship cards can be collected at the office or you can play online at http://carrickgolf.ie/masters-2023/.

Roscommon

Congratulations to Men’s 18-hole winner Lorcan Dowd who topped the leaderboard with 41 points last week. Other results: Cat 1: Tommy Grehan (34); Cat 2: Noel Sharkey (41); Cat 3 Michael Healy (35); Gross: Mario Costello (34).

The Junior Drive-In takes place this Saturday (April 1st) at 3 pm. The club wishes Boys’ captain Elliot Grealy and Girls’ captain Leah O’Connor the very best of luck for Saturday and the year ahead. Junior Conveyors this year are Anne Quirke and Aidan Mulvihill.

Finally for this week, the Open Friday competitions return on Friday week (April 7th). Book your time slot on the BRS system.

The very best of luck to the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon who will be hoping for yet more All-Ireland glory this afternoon when they take on Mercy Mounthawk, Tralee.

The Convent previously won double All-Ireland honours in both Gaelic football and soccer back in 2009 and so are no strangers to the big stage.

The team is led by coach David O’Reilly and boasts Roscommon forward Aisling Hanly among its star players. The Kilbride woman and team captain was every bit the star when interviewed by RTÉ recently.

The All-Ireland Senior ‘B’ Football Post-Primary Schools Final throws in at 12.30 pm in Nenagh, Co Tipperary this afternoon (Thursday). Report and reaction in next week’s People Sport.

Handball tournament in Kilglass

Kilglass Handball Club hosted a successful tournament for underage players on Thursday last with 41 taking part.

Aoibhinn Tully won the U-10 Girls’ cup and Saoirse Burke won the plate, while Jack Hughes was the U-10 Boys champion. Tara Hill emerged victorious in the Girls U-12s and Amy Reynolds took home the plate while Milo Judge was the boys’ champion. In the Elite Group, Maxime Gernier cam out on top in the cup and Patrick Grehan prevailed in the plate.

Elsewhere, Sean Carthy won his Connacht Juvenile ‘B’ semi-final in three games and Patrick Farrell and James Dowling won through in the U-11 doubles semi-final. Olivia Hussey’s opponent withdrew. Best of luck to all in the finals this weekend.

Coman’s

make a splash!

Congratulations to Coman’s swimmer, Jun Hwang, and his Connacht teammates on their outstanding performances at the All-Ireland Senior Schools Interprovincial. Jun set personal bests in all his events!

Well done also to Leon Konieczka, Sean Keane, Ava Kiernan, Ciara Lally and Áine Doherty, who all impressed at the All-Ireland Minor Schools Gala in Dublin. There were a number of personal bests as well as final appearances for Leon, Ava,

Ciara (2) and Áine.

Local athletes set for All-Ireland Indoors!

All roads lead to TUS Athlone for a number of local athletes as representatives from clubs such as Suck Valley, Reeside, and Lough Ree prepare to take part in the National Indoor Athletics Championships.

Suck Valley AC has five athletes taking part.

Hollie Kilroe will be aiming to retain her titles in both the 400m and 800m at U-18 and she’s joined on the track by Amy Rogers, who’s running in the U-15 60m sprint, and Muireann Mulry in the U-13 600m. Roisin Brennan (U-15) and Dylan Hoban (U-14), meanwhile, will be competing in the high jump. Reeside AC will also be sending two athletes this weekend. Colm Fitzgerald (U-15), who has already won a number of Connacht medals, will be hoping to improve on his fourth-place finish in

stood himself down on the final day of Cheltenham, Ewing makes it four of the Cullentra regular riders on the sideline. Claimer Corey McGivern has two rides and Denis O’Regan one for the yard at Navan today.

last year’s 60m events. Colm’s teammate, Emily Clyne, is making her third trip to compete in an All-Ireland high jump final (U-14s). Emily has Connacht medals in both U-12 hurdles and U-13 high jump.

Best of luck also to Andrew Nolan of Lough Ree AC. Andrew will be competing in the U-12 shot put event this Saturday. He recently won gold with a 7.72m throw at the Connacht Indoor Championships.

Cavaliers on the double!

Both the women’s and the men’s Castlerea Cavaliers basketball teams finished on a high last weekend, winning their respective Shield finals. The women’s team easily defeated Drumlish with Sarah Tyrrell the MVP with 30 points.

The men defeated Longford Phoenix on Saturday by 89-52 and Mohill by 56-55 in front of a huge home support with Joseph Henry claiming the MVP award.

Coman’s swimmers including Ava Kiernan, Ciara Lally and Áine Doherty all impressed at the All-Ireland Minor Schools Gala in Dublin.

Lattam, near side, gets up to beat Saltonstall in the Irish Lincolnshire.

Laois defeat confirms Ladies’ relegation

Relegation back to Division Three was confirmed for Roscommon Ladies last Sunday following their 2-9 to 1-5 defeat to Laois in their final Division Two fixture.

In order to avoid the drop, Roscommon had to beat Laois while hoping for a Westmeath win over Monaghan, and they duly obliged with a 2-10 to 1-11 win.

Roscommon did get off to a good start with an early goal from Aisling Hanly but Laois grew into the contest and a Laura Marie Maher

goal was quickly followed by a Mo Nerney penalty to give the hosts a 2-3 to 1-3 lead at half-time.

The second-half fightback never materialised as Laois outscored the Rossies by six points to two to bring an end to a dismal league campaign for Ollie Lennon’s charges.

Next up for Roscommon is the Connacht Intermediate Championship, which due to Sligo’s relegation to the junior ranks, now involves a straight final against Leitrim on May 14th.

Buccs fall to first home defeat

Energia All-Ireland League: Buccaneers 7 Highfield 27. Buccaneers suffered their first home defeat in the Energia All-Ireland League when a fired up and physically stronger Highfield came out on top 27-7 at Dubarry Park on Saturday. The Cork side brought an aggressive intensity that the depleted Shannonsiders could not match in this Division 1B encounter sponsored by Glasson Lakehouse.

U-20s advance in Purcell Cup

Leinster Rugby Purcell Cup Quarter-Final: Dublin University 26 Buccaneers 31. On Sunday, in Monkstown RFC, in the heart of Dublin City, Buccaneers U-20s squared up to Dublin University in the Leinster Rugby Purcell Cup quarter-final. Martin Staunton’s squad were travelling more in hope rather than in great expectations as this cup team is a very different selection from the Buccs who started the league last September. However, the much-changed Pirates came flying out of the traps and a super first-half display propelled them to a 31-26 victory.

Girls bow out in Connacht

Connacht U-14 Girls Cup: Buccaneers 12 Ballinasloe 34. The great 2023 Connacht U-14 Girls Cup campaign came to an end at the semi-final stage in sun-drenched Dubarry Park on Sunday against a more experienced Ballinasloe side who remain unbeaten this season. The scoreline does not indicate how close the tie was until the last ten minutes when injuries to key players allowed the speedy Ballinasloe backs to find space to get over and secure victory.

Away to Old Wesley

Buccaneers face Old Wesley in their final away fixture of the Energia All-Ireland League which takes place on the 4G surface at Energia Park, Donnybrook, on Saturday, commencing at 2.30 pm.

U-20s away to Corinthians

Ironically next up in this Leinster Rugby Purcell Cup run is another Connacht club with the cup semi-final in Galway against a really strong Corinthians outfit who have completed an excellent Leinster League season in which they lost really tight games to champions Terenure College. They could now be re-enforced by returning players especially from Cistercian College Roscrea and Irelands U-20 Grand Slam winners.

Other news…

Buccaneers U-12 and U-14 Girls were recently presented with jerseys by Breda Donnellan on behalf of sponsors Donnellan’s Pure Pharmacy.

There is a new date for the Buccaneers RFC Prime Auction which now takes place in The Bounty on Sunday, April 30th at 3.30 pm.

Finally for this week, the annual Laya Tag Rugby Series returns on Thursday evenings from May 11th. Training sessions start on April 13th. Teams and individuals can register at buccaneers.tag.rugby@gmail.com.

Creggs set for All-Ireland qualifier

Creggs Firsts don’t have too long to pick themselves up following their heartbreaking Connacht Junior Cup final defeat to Westport last Sunday as they travel to Coolmine to take on Richmond RFC this Saturday. Kick-off is set for 3 pm and the Maroon and White should get the job done against the Limerick side. All support is welcome.

Girls seal final spot!

Creggs U-18 Girls booked their place in the Connacht Cup final with a convincing 47-17 win over Sligo in Creggs last Friday night. Tries from Rachel McDonald and Siofra Hession (2) with three conversions from Éabha Dowd gave the hosts a 21-12 lead at half-time.

Creggs produced an excellent

second-half performance with tries from Shauna McDermott (2), Aoibhinn Murray and Rachel McDonald and almost perfect kicking from Éabha Dowd ensured safe passage to the decider this Sunday.

U-14s miss out on ‘first try’ rule

Creggs U-14 Girls played out a cracking 26-26 draw with Westport in the Connacht Cup semi-final at home on Saturday but unfortunately missed out on a place in the final due to the ‘first try rule’.

The girls started well but fell behind to that crucial first Westport try in the opening stages. The hosts, however, responded well with Emma Boyle and Emily Kelly going over. Alice Featherston added one conversion but Westport led 19-12 at the break.

The home side improved in the second half with converted tries from Kate Madden and Emily Kelly. They left everything out on the pitch but sadly lose out as Westport scored first.

Boys suffer last eight defeat

Creggs U-14 Boys bowed out of the Connacht Cup at the quarter-finals stage following a 24-7 defeat to Sligo last Saturday. Conditions were far from ideal and Sam Walsh scored the hosts’ only try of the game in the first half as Sligo ran out comfortable winners.

This marks the end of the season for the U-14s who have had a successful campaign, reaching the latter stages in both league and cup competitions.

Away win in Westport

Creggs U-13 Boys produced a brilliant performance on the road last Sunday morning as they overcame hosts Westport on a scoreline of 2419 in their Connacht Cup replay.

Tries from Ryan Halligan, Kyle Cahill, Eoghan Mannion and two conversions from Cormac Doyle

gave the visitors a 19-0 half-time lead.

Westport came back to level matters in the second half before another try by Halligan made the game safe for Creggs.

Mini Rugby

Eleven clubs divided into 18 teams took part in the Connacht U-11 Blitz in Creggs on Saturday morning last. The clubs involved including Monivea, Buccaneers, Corinthians, Loughrea, Gort, Galway Bay, Ballinasloe, Galwegians, Tuam, Carrick-on-Shannon and Creggs received plenty of support from coaches and parents.

Dinner Dance…

Creggs Rugby Club will host a dinner dance on Saturday, April 8th in the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. This will be the club’s first social occasion since Covid-19 and tickets are limited. Anyone requiring tickets are asked to contact Aidan Farrell on 087-2428471.

LGFA fundraiser in memory of Marie

Roscommon Ladies Gaelic Football Association has this week announced a new fundraiser in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice and in memory of

former secretary and ladies football stalwart, the late Marie McAleer.

The fundraiser is the brainchild of the intermediate ladies’ team who

will climb Croagh Patrick on April 22nd. If anyone else would like to complete the climb with them, please get in contact with Roscom-

mon LGFA. Donations can also be made through the following link: www. idonate.ie/fundraiser/RoscommonLadiesFootballTeam.

Soccer results

The Roscommon Ladies football team which was defeated by Laois in Lidl LGFA National League Division Two action last weekend. Pic: Ellen Hynes

Roscommon Ladies Gaelic Football Association has this week announced a new fundraiser in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

Lyons strikes late to dash Creggs’ double hopes

Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup Final Westport RFC 21 Creggs RFC 19

< DAN DOONER AT THE SPORTSGROUND

When they’re sitting down to discuss putting together a 50th anniversary celebration out in the village some time next year, the Creggs stalwarts will unfortunately look back on this year’s Connacht Junior Cup campaign as an opportunity missed.

With just two minutes remaining in normal time last Sunday, the electric Shane Purcell crashed over the whitewash to give Creggs a late lead and all but silence the vociferous Westport support.

Creggs were just over seven minutes away from their first Connacht Junior Cup win since 1993 and their first league and cup double since 1989. Those in maroon and white celebrated as Purcell rounded off a wonderful team try fit to win any game of rugby, harsh on Westport though that might have been.

Just eight minutes later, however, the Mayo contingent had found their voice once more. Westport won a lineout on the Creggs five-metre line and seven phases later Cormac Lyons touched down under the posts to bring the sides level. Sam Walsh’s tap-over conversion confirmed the worst for Creggs as the Bulls celebrated in the stand and all over the pitch.

Creggs head coach Tony Dolan was magnanimous despite the heartache at the full-time whistle.

“That was a smashing game of rugby and it was as tight as you’d get, as you’d expect in a final. I’m very proud of my lads and have the world of respect for Westport, they played really well, they played to their strengths, and they didn’t allow us play our game, and full credit to them for doing that,” he said. Dolan barely had time to draw breath but admitted there was some trepidation despite Purcell’s late try.

“I was nervous after that because we had to receive the kick-off and that’s always a dangerous time. If somebody just misses it or whatever. Westport came up very fast and shut us down on that. Brian (Donohoe) caught the kickoff cleanly, but the shut down from

Creggs’ Shane Purcell runs in for a try during last Sunday’s Connacht Rugby Junior Cup Final against Westport at the Sportsground in Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Creggs RFC captain Brian Diffley in action during the Connacht Rugby Junior Cup Final against Westport at the Sportsground in Galway last Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Westport then made sure that we could move it,” he said.

As for the overall performance, Creggs’ usual running game was contained by the more powerful Westport outfit, led by the impressive Kevin Corcoran. “We like to move the ball, we like to spread it wide, but to do that you have the ball. For long spells there we didn’t have the ball, Westport retained the ball, minded it and we couldn’t get it back off them,” Dolan said.

“But cup finals are always going to be like that, tight close affairs. It’s very rare that a team scores a breakaway try to win a game, it’s usually the team that

controls possession that wins the game, and Westport did that today”.

Westport were up for this one right from the start and used their size advantage to great effect early doors. The early pressure paid dividends when Stephen Loftus’ trickery and power saw him over for the opening try, Walsh adding the extras to leave the Connacht League champions behind after just seven minutes.

With little or no change from the Bulls’ defence in the opening quarter, Ronan Dowd chose to take the direct route, kicking deep into the Westport 22. Determined follow-up play from

the Creggs pack led to a turnover and quick ball put Brian Donohoe under the posts. Shane Purcell converted to bring the sides level.

Creggs grew in confidence as the half went on and were rewarded for their attractive brand of rugby when a Ronan Dowd try gave them a 12-7 half-time lead.

Westport were however back on the front foot on the resumption and scored within minutes when their powerhouse Corcoran led a forward drive and Ross Burke bundled over. The conversion put the Bulls ahead by two and but for some dogged Creggs defence it could have been more.

As it was, Creggs found their feet and should have retaken the lead with twelve minutes remaining but Purcell’s penalty caught the breeze and drifted wide of the posts. Agony.

It was Purcell’s try that eventually did give the east Galway side that late advantage. The ball was worked from inside the Creggs 22 before Ronan Dowd put his number 10 in for a super try, which was converted by Purcell himself.

They thought it was all over in the village. But Westport ripped up the script with Lyons’ late try and a man dressed head to toe in a Bull costume led the

Westport celebrations. Heartbreak.

“It’s been a fantastic season. The first and second team both won trophies, it would have been nice to have a third one today but it was not to be,” said Tony Dolan at full-time.

“But it has been a great season and fair dues to the players who have made that happen. The turnout for training has always been excellent; we had 36 on Friday night which is massive, and I’m very proud of that”.

There’s plenty more to be proud of too when they do get around to celebrating 50 years of Creggs Rugby in the village next year.

The Creggs RFC team that narrowly lost out to Westport in the Connacht Rugby Junior Cup Final last Sunday at the Sportsground in Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from last Sunday’s Connacht Rugby Junior Cup Final between Creggs RFC and Westport RFC at the Sportsground in Galway. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Smith’s rallying cry: ‘Rossies will be ready for Mayo test’

WIN OVER DONEGAL SECURES THIRD PLACE IN LEAGUE

Allianz National Football League Division One

Roscommon 0-21 Donegal 0-9

< SEAMUS DUKE

Enda Smith says Mayo are “flying high” – but the barnstorming Boyle man is confident Roscommon can put in a major shift against the perennial AllIreland contenders when the teams meet on Easter Sunday.

Speaking moments after Roscommon’s easy win over Donegal last Sunday, Smith spoke of the significance of the team’s achievement in retaining its Division One status.

“It’s great to know that we’ll be in Division One next year. That’s where you improve the most. It was a big target at the start of the year”.

Smith said the Roscommon players were delighted to end the league campaign with a win, and now the preparations for that big championship date in April can intensify.

Speaking of the Castlebar clash, he said: “As a Roscommon player, it’s probably one of the biggest games you’ll play in. We’ll get the bodies right in the next week or so. Mayo are flying high. It will be a big test for us but we’re going to be ready and hopefully give it a good rattle”.

As for the display against Donegal, Smith said: “It was important to return to winning ways after the last three games. To be fair, it was a really good performance. We had targeted a good start to the league…(we) lost a few after that…and it turned into a classic last-day league game, very up and down for the first 20 minutes, but once we got a foothold, I thought we managed the game well”.

Roscommon finished their league campaign in style against beleaguered Donegal at Dr Hyde Park on Sunday. Davy Burke’s team finished third in the table behind the two league finalists, Mayo and Galway.

Except for a period at the start of the match when the sides were level at 0-4 apiece, Roscommon were dominant. They could have won by an even greater margin, but a couple of clear goal chances were missed. A total of 21 points, 20 from play, and 11 different scorers, will bring a smile to the face of manager Davy Burke and his selectors.

In fact Burke told the People: “It was great to kick 21 points. It was great to see the players express themselves a little bit. It’s a case of job done. We are thrilled with that”.

The Roscommon manager lamented those missed goal chances. “We were 6 on 2 there at one stage and we made a bad decision to shoot. So we missed a few goal chances, but 21 points is fair kicking in Division One. You have to take the positives. The league’s done, so we drive on to Connacht now”. Managerless Donegal competed well early on and

at 0-4 apiece there were signs that this could be a battle. In fact Roscommon kicked on after that. By the 24th minute it was 0-10 to 0-5 in favour of Roscommon, and 0-12 to 0-7 by half-time.

The second half was almost totally one-way traffic as Roscommon outscored their opponents by 0-9 to 0-2. In the 45th minute Conor Cox blazed wide after a superb counter-attack. Subs Cian McKeon and Cian Connolly both weighed in with points before the finish.

Once again Brian Stack was magnificent on Sunday. He has been our best player in this league. Ben O’Carroll, Enda Smith, the Murtagh brothers, Dylan Ruane and Keith Doyle were all excellent too. With McKeon and Connolly making a scoring return, the selectors have so many attacking options now it will be difficult for them to settle on a starting sextet for the championship. It’s a great problem to have.

All told, it’s been a super campaign. Four wins out of seven in the top division is an excellent outcome and a tribute to the energy and drive that the new management team has brought to the set-up.

Burke summed it up thus: “We were within a sniff of a league final in the last ten minutes. It didn’t go our way but eight points and finishing third in the table is great, as is finding five or six new lads who can play at this level”.

Teams & scorers

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Conor Hussey, Brian Stack (0-1), David Murray; Niall Daly (0-1), Eoin McCormack, Dylan Ruane; Tadhg O’Rourke (0-1), Keith Doyle (0-2); Ciaráin Murtagh (0-3), Enda Smith (0-3), Niall Kilroy; Diarmuid Murtagh (0-3, 1 free), Conor Cox (0-1), Ben O’Carroll (0-3). Subs: Ruaidhrí Fallon for O’Rourke (12), Donie Smith for O’Carroll (h/t), Richard Hughes for Daly (41), Cian McKeon (0-2) for Kilroy (41), Cian Connolly (0-1) for Cox (60).

Donegal: Shaun Patton; Mark Curran, Brendan McCole, Caolan Ward; John Ross Molloy, Caolan McGonagle (0-1), Eoghan Ban Gallagher (0-1); Michael Langan (0-1, free), Jason McGee; Marty O’Reilly, Ciaran Thompson (0-2), Conor O’Donnell (0-1); Johnny McGroddy; Hugh McFadden (0-1), Jamie Brennan (01). Subs: Kieran Tobin for O’Reilly (h/t), Jeaic McKelvey (0-1) for Langan (h/t), Keelan Dunleavy for McGroddy (41), Joel Bradley Walsh for McGee (66), Brian O’Donnell for Gallagher (70) Referee: Joe McQuillan (Cavan).

Stat Attack

Wides: Roscommon 7 (1, first half); Donegal 9 (3, first half)

Red cards: 0

Black cards: 0

Yellow cards: Roscommon 0; Donegal 1 (Hugh

McFadden)

Attendance: 4,219

Man of the Match: Brian Stack (Roscommon)

Brian Stack… produced a man of the match performance at Dr Hyde Park on Sunday last. File photo: Bernie O’Farrell