31 May 2024 Roscommon People

190 hours to polling!

With the polling booths opening in less than 190 hours’ time, election candidates throughout the region are preparing for a final frantic week of canvassing.

Candidates report that issues raised on the doorsteps include the cost of living, housing, immigration, the health service, and roads.

A total of 37 candidates will vie for the 18 seats available on Roscommon County Council when the local elections are held on Friday, June 7th next. There are just six female candidates across the three electoral areas (Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon).

Meanwhile, in the European Parliament election, also being held on June 7th, a remarkable total of 27 candidates are running in the Midlands-North-West constituency, where they are five seats available.

An election campaign that has been relatively low-key up to this point is expected to intensify in its final days. Over the past week or so, Taoiseach Simon Harris and

Meanwhile, at last Monday’s monthly meeting of Roscommon County Council, six outgoing councillors who are not seeking re-election were each presented with a painting in recognition of their service. The presentations were made by Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, and Cllr John Keogh, Cathaoirleach of the Council.

The councillors in question are John Cummins (first elected in 1999); Michael Mulligan (first elected in 2004); Orla Leyden (first elected in 2004); Kathleen Shanagher (first elected in 2014); Joe Murphy (co-opted in 2016, elected in 2019); and Donal Kilduff (elected in 2019).

 PAUL HEALY

Tánaiste Micheál Martin have both visited the county.

Compulsory Purchase Order

I understand that my land will be targeted by the local Council to facilitate a road development in my area. I don’t want to sell my land and I am very distressed about this. Is there anything I can do? Will I be compensated? Please advise me.

Certain statutory bodies, to include local authorities, can take land or property without the consent of the owner by means of a compulsory purchase order (CPO). Compulsory purchase only usually takes place to allow a public infrastructure project to go ahead e.g. to facilitate the development of a new road.

If your property is compulsorily purchased, you will be eligible for compensation. Such compensation is designed to restore you, as far as possible, to the same position as you were in before your property was acquired. You should be paid compensation based on the market value of your property. The compensation should reflect both the actual land acquired and the reduction in value, if any, of your remaining lands as a result of the CPO. If your property is going to be compulsorily acquired then you will be served with a formal notice advising you of the proposed CPO. You have the right to raise objections and make representations concerning the proposed CPO. However, it is important that you react quickly as strict time limits apply for lodging objections and for any court actions which may be required to challenge the CPO. It is important that you receive detailed legal advice on the options open to you. We at Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors have handled many compulsory purchase cases from the very initial stages right through to full challenges through the Courts. We work with other experienced professionals to include planners, surveyors and valuers so as to best represent your interests. Please feel free to contact us for further advice specific to your own situation.

You did WHAT the other evening?

With PAUL HEALY

Okay…

I just went on a dummy run… canvassing houses… as though I’m running for election! And ARE YOU running for election?

Well, I’m not running in the locals, or the Europeans, but I may well run in the General Election… THAT’S why I did the dummy run!

Pretty extravagant attention to detail! Well, life is all about the three Ps, after all! What three Ps?

PREPARE, PREPARE, PRE…

Don’t tell me! Let me guess… Prepare? Exactly! I’m glad you agree!

So, after all your talk about forming a new political party and so on, you’re NOT running next month… CORRECT!

I note you didn’t consult me! So was this decision taken on some tactical basis? You could say that, in a manner of speaking… How so?

It was taken after my wife reminded me we’re going to Lanzarote on the night before the election!

Huh! And how did your trial canvass go? Eh… interesting!

(They pause to complete their ‘Five ways to beat Mayo’ document, for discussion in the ‘local’ on Friday night)

So, what happened?

Well, I thought about wearing my pinstripe suit… for gravitas.

Thebarstoolboyos

You didn’t!

But in the end, I opted for casual! Excellent!

I started at 2 pm… called to a nice couple, but they were too tired to talk!

Had they been in the bog? The garden? No, they were just home from a Bruce Springsteen concert the night before! They were exhausted!

WATCHING People

A canvassing dummy run, Mayo … and Jennifer Zamparelli Endangered Species

Next house, all they wanted to talk about was Jurgen Klopp leaving Liverpool. Okay…

Next house, all they wanted to talk about was Jennifer Zamparelli leaving 2FM… Oh for God’s sake! Didn’t anyone want to talk about inflation, or housing… the crisis-type stuff?

Next house, a lady opened the door with a smile, but her expression changed when she realised I wasn’t delivering the pizza she had ordered.

Oh dear!

On Saturday, I called to a house just after 4.30. Turns out one of the old guys who was in the pub the night we spoke about starting a political party lives there…

Okay…

He had a big welcome for me…

Great! So he’ll vote for you when and if you run? What did he say?

He said: ‘Can you come in and help us connect to GAAGO? We’re struggling with it!’ Oh right… Dublin v Roscommon.

Yes!

So, did ANYBODY have any views on big issues?

Well, in one house they had a few opinions on how to avert a looming crisis…

Okay…

They reckoned 2FM should hold talks with the 2 Johnnies and Jennifer Zamparelli before the crisis gets any worse!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Fine Gael, with the party continuing its rise in the opinion polls under new leader Simon Harris, closing to within one point of Sinn Féin

Manchester United, who defied the odds by winning the FA Cup, defeating ‘neighbours’ Manchester City 2-1 in the final

It’s been a BAD week for…

Roscommon GAA (only in terms of results, certainly not endeavour), with defeat for our senior footballers against Dublin, our minors in the Connacht final versus Mayo, and our hurling team in the All-Ireland U-20 B final

Galway and Waterford hurling, with both counties making premature exits from the AllIreland Senior Hurling Championship

Leinster, who lost the European Rugby Champions Cup final (their third successive defeat in the final), Toulouse winning 31-22

Singer Nicki Minaj, who was arrested in the Netherlands on suspicion of possession of drugs

PIC OF THE WEEK: Croke Park groundsman Sam Kingston carrying out some running repairs, ensuring the pitch is in pristine condition ahead of last Saturday’s matches. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Monksland’s Carmel Owens

named Person of Year at Tech Excellence Awards

GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group company and global leader in digital engineering, has announced that GlobalLogic Ireland MD Carmel Owens, based in Monskland, was named Person of the Year at the Tech Excellence Awards 2024.

Carmel received the award during a black-tie gala ceremony at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin. The prestigious awards programme highlights the contributions and achievements of individuals and organi-

sations in the Irish technology sector. Carmel was recognised for her commitment to the growth and success of the business – initially as Sidero and now GlobalLogic Ireland – since she joined in 2020. In the years that followed, Carmel built the Athlone-based business to become a leader in software, cloud, and digital transformation. As a result of Carmel’s leadership, GlobalLogic last year acquired Sidero, with the company announcing the merger completion in 2024.

€200,000 for

Roscommon Town under Heritage Revival Scheme

Roscommon Town has been awarded €200,000 under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE), a grant which is co-funded by the EU and Roscommon County Council, through Government.

The initiative aims to “rejuvenate and revitalise” town centres by renovating and reusing “publicly owned vacant or derelict heritage buildings”. The funding is part of the ERDF Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021-2027 and is intended to help local authorities and citizens reimagine their urban spaces from a heritage and cultural perspective.

Roscommon County Council will use the €200,000 grant to develop a plan for an Integrated Urban Strategy, engage with citizens, and identify heritage buildings in Roscommon Town for future renovation or development.

Additional capital funding is planned

for 2025 for the renovation and adaptive reuse of heritage buildings in public ownership that is identified through the initial study. Protecting and enhancing Roscommon Town’s built heritage is expected to contribute significantly to the town’s “cultural fabric”.

The project will involve assessing and conducting feasibility studies on two publicly owned buildings in the town, Edenville House and Bank House (the former Motor Tax Office). This initiative will provide an opportunity for citizens to engage with their local authority and contribute to consultations determining a sustainable end use for the chosen building.

Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, Alan Dillon TD was delighted to announce the funding: “Our towns and villages are the beating heart of rural Ireland. The Town Centre First Initiative is revitalising our communities across the country. This initial tranche of funding under THRIVE will facilitate the development and enhance-

ment of integrated urban strategies using a Town Centre First approach and will assist local authorities in identifying suitable projects and ensuring they are ready to commence capital works”.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, also commented: “This Government has placed a huge emphasis on the regeneration and rejuvenation of towns all across the country”.

Local authorities receiving this funding will promote the values and principles of the New European Bauhaus initiative, ensuring that their projects are sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, inclusive, and accessible.

THRIVE Strand One Funding was awarded for several local town centres including €131,501 for Ballinasloe, €130,540 for Carrick-on-Shannon, and €200,000 for Roscommon Town. The funding announcements were welcomed by local senators Eugene Murphy of Fianna Fáil and Aisling Dolan of Fine Gael.

Brian Chamberlain (IP Telecom) pictured presenting Carmel Owens (MD, GlobalLogic Ireland) with the Person of the Year award at the 2024 Tech Excellence Awards.

Lough Funshinagh: ‘Tánaiste to seek new legal advice’ – Fallon

Cllr Laurence Fallon says that Tánaiste Micheál Martin has agreed to seek new legal advice on alleviating the flooding at Lough Funshinagh following proposals put to him by Cllr Fallon.

was that the flooding was not an emergency, and as such, “it would be difficult to take a quantity of water out of the lake before next winter”.

than they were this time last year.

The Tánaiste had visited the flooded communities surrounding the lake in Ballagh, Lisphelim and Curraghboy last week, where he stated that the Attorney General’s advice

Speaking following the visit, Cllr Fallon said, “I pointed out to him that things have changed dramatically in the last year, causing this to be a new emergency. Firstly, there are houses under much greater threat of flooding

“Secondly, there are septic tanks and slurry tanks that are now much more likely to be flooded in the next few months and into next winter, creating an environmental emergency.

and will now represent

in the

“What may not have been an emergency when the High Court injunction was taken out two years ago, is certainly an emergency now. I am pleased that the Tánaiste agreed to raise my points with the Attorney General, the Government’s legal advisor, and explore what impact they might have on the ability to lower the water level”.

Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the announcement that Cootehall National School is to bene t from funding for a signi cant refurbishment.

“I was very pleased to receive con rmation from the Department of Education that Cootehall NS has been approved under the Additional School Accommodation Scheme for recon guration to provide a Special Educational Needs (SEN) classroom.

Concluding, Cllr Fallon warned, “Without removing a certain quantity of water from the lake between now and Christmas, we will not succeed in keeping the villages safe this year. I would appeal to all involved to act now to save the villages of Ballagh, Curraghboy and Lisphelim”.

“I understand the demands on small schools and their vital role in the community and I hope this development will bene t the whole school environment.

“I am working with my colleagues in Government to ensure that our schools are given every possible resource necessary in order to provide the best start for our children and young people”, said Senator Murphy.

Glenna Mannion from Tulsk pictured with her parents Tommie and Kathleen Mannion. Glenna was successful in last weekend’s Rose of Tralee London selection event

London

Rose of Tralee competition in August.

Cllr Laurence Fallon pictured with Tánaiste Micheál Martin during his recent visit.

‘Thirteen families to arrive in Castlerea next month’

Local politicians who met with Department of Integration officials on Monday on the issue of accommodation of asylum seekers in Castlerea have stated that thirteen families are scheduled to move into the Riverwalk Apartments in the town in mid-June. The statement was issued by Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fáil senator), Michael Fitzmaurice (Independent TD), Claire Kerrane (Sinn Féin TD),

Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael senator) and Cllrs Paschal Fitzmaurice and Nigel Dineen on Monday evening, and reads as follows:

“Following a meeting with Department officials, it has been clarified that thirteen families would be accommodated at River Walk, Castlerea.

“This does not include single males. It was stated that these people are documented families already in the

International Protection System.

“Subject to ongoing negotiations for accommodation approval, it is expected that families will arrive in mid-June.

“We will make a further statement when we have more information”. The statement was in the name of Eugene Murphy, Michael Fitzmaurice, Claire Kerrane, Aisling Dolan, Paschal Fitzmaurice and Nigel Dineen.

PROVEN TRACK RECORD

 Secured investment for regeneration of local villages

Working to find a solution to flooding at Lough Funshinagh

Working with Just Transition Fund & other funding streams

Promoting job creation & a strong rural economy  Working to deliver community supports and services  Promoting the protection

Niall Blaney and Barry Cowen TD

The Riverwalk Apartment Complex in Castlerea.

THURSDAY

The man in your TV…

I’m channel-hopping for a few minutes, but astonishingly there’s no sign of Bradley Walsh’s broad smile anywhere No Bradley, on any channel?

I can only presume this is a technical glitch of sorts and that normal service will resume…

FRIDAY

Freudian slip?

“We have local and European elections that day” is what I meant to text to a friend today, but what I actually wrote was: “We have local and European ejections that day”. That is what could probably be described as a good example of a Freudian slip.

SATURDAY

Defeat to Dublin

The first thing I noticed about today’s All-Ireland Senior Football Championship game between Dublin and Roscommon was the atmosphere at Croke Park. If Donald Trump was there, he’d be claiming there was 50,000 people (or more) present, and that it was electrifying. He wasn’t; there weren’t, it wasn’t.

Those who witnessed this latest instalment of ‘How to deflate a championship’ were amongst a mere 15,000 or so who attended – a mixture of diehards and the eternally curious who gamely tried to inject some life into the great stadium.

Whatever the secret to creating a thrilling championship is, perpetuating a format where three teams from four remain active in a competition after a round robin series of games is hardly it. Not that Roscommon will be complaining if we finish Group 2 with at least one team below us.

As our family had commitments earlier in the day, I watched on GAAGO, a €12 outlay made with a nod to loyalty and hope more than expectation of seeing a famous Roscommon win. But I get why Davy Burke talks up this team, why he believes – contrary to the evidence of recent months – that they can match the best this season. Roscommon were superb at times on Saturday, kicking some marvellous points, and more or less going toe to toe with Dublin for up to an hour or so. There was much to admire about Roscommon’s performance, defensively and offensively. The problem was, Burke’s team ultimately struggled once again in the second half of a game –or it might be fairer and more pertinent to simply say that the Dublin substitutions ‘killed’ us.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A column by Roscommon People editor paul@roscommonpeople.ie

SUNDAY

Observing gambits…

A 7 am start, followed by the long drive to Gormanston in County Meath, where the Roscommon/ Kilteevan Community Games U-16 chess team (our son included) were taking part in the national finals. A number of other children from Roscommon were also competing. With competition in various events across two venues, it was a busy and enjoyable day for children, coaches, parents and supporters.

On this occasion (it’s not always the case) supporters were allowed into the hall during the play. You could hear a pin drop. It’s great to see chess growing in popularity, presumably in part because of the success of the TV series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’

As with many other sports, parents pace up and down/sit in small groups, nervously awaiting the outcomes. It’s a very competitive atmosphere, but there’s none of the verbal criticism of referees we occasionally see in some field games! Roscommon-Kilteevan U-16s were runners-up in the national final, so

congratulations to the team, and their coach, Alastair.

On the way home, we stopped in a fine establishment for a bite to eat. Across from us sat a middleaged man and a middle-aged woman. Judging by their chat and body language, which we honestly couldn’t fully ignore, it was absolutely clear that they were on a first date. In a way, they were having their own game of chess… by times carefully planning their next move, by times keenly trying to avoid checkmate (which is essentially being ‘captured’).

Had it been an episode of TV’s First Dates (it wasn’t), I’m sorry to report that my conclusion is that the lady would have delivered the dreaded ‘You’re a lovely guy, but I didn’t feel a spark… maybe as friends?’ killer line. But I could be wrong.

MONDAY

Ahern for Castlecoote

Daydreaming (or clearing my head) while travelling to a morning meeting in Castlecoote, I find myself

continuing on towards Creggs by mistake, not that heading for Creggs is ever anything other than a good thing to do.

After a quick U-turn, I join the meeting in beautiful, historic Castlecoote House, where we are finalising plans for the 16th annual Percy French Festival (July 17-19 inclusive).

This year ’s gathering will once again feature a great line-up of distinguished guest speakers, who will address a series of topical issues.

A keynote speaker this year will be former Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. In his first public appearance in Co Roscommon for many years, Mr Ahern will speak on the prospects for a United Ireland, and how such a ‘New Ireland’ might look. It promise to be a fascinating festival (for details on tickets/other information, see percyfrench.ie).

MONDAY NIGHT

TV choices!

Finally, the TV programme we’ve all been waiting for: RTE One is broadcasting the eagerly awaited

‘Limerick Mayor TV debate’. I love Limerick, but really? 15 candidates will feature in the debate, over two sections. I’m not sure whether to watch or not, and note that RTE Two is showing an alternative, a programme in which comedian Ruby Wax is spending ten days ‘marooned’ on an island. Ruby ‘must build her own camp, and collect her own food and water’. Fair enough, but at least she’ll be avoiding a 15-candidate Limerick mayoral debate…

TUESDAY

Campaign Capers…

Keep an eye on the Roscommon People social platforms for a series of fun videos we’re posting on the 2024 election campaigns. The series is titled ‘Campaign Capers’ Taking a look at the lighter side of politics, it’s our alternative guide to Elections 2024. See roscommonpeople.ie, follow us on Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), etc. for more…

The Rossies are on a well deserved break: Paraic Newman’s cartoons will return to this page in early June

Cloonfad United fans Shannon and Niamh Costello, Saoirse Doyle, Sofia Moran and Lauren Corcoran pictured at last Sunday’s RDFL Challenge Cup final between CP Ajax and Cloonfad in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

ROSCOMMON vote Cowen

#1 on june 7th

Practical solutions, real results and delivery for Roscommon

Working with Senator Eugene Murphy

Please continue your preference for Niall Blaney & Lisa Chambers

NOTICE OF POLL - ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

1. A poll for the election of members for this local electoral area will be taken on Friday, 7th June 2024, between The hours of 7.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m.

2. The following are particulars of the candidates, whose names will appear on the ballot papers in the order shown: -

ATHLONE LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Description

Surname Other

Name(s)

Address

Occupation Name of Political Party, if any

Brooks Sam Antrane, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Student Sinn Féin

Connolly Domnick Moyliss, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

Name and address of proposer, if any

Retired Salesman Fine Gael

Fallon Laurence Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Farmer Non-Party

Harney Joe Taylorstown, Monksland, Co. Roscommon Auctioneer Sinn Féin

Kelly Emer Creeher, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon

Occupational Therapist Non-Party

Keogh John Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamulla, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Public Representative and Solicitor Fianna Fáil Anne Kelly, Hodson Bay, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Murray James Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Stonemason and Farmer Fianna Fáil

Naughten John Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Farmer and Public Representative Fine Gael

Naughton Dominic Ardnaglug, Ballydangan, Athlone

Ward Tony Carrick View, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Engineer, Farmer and Caregiver Non-Party

Public Representative Non-Party

BOYLE LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Surname Other Name(s)

Address

Ali Majid The Meadows, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Alsani Fayiz Loughkey House, Kilbryan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Occupation Name of Political Party, if any

Description Name and address of proposer, if any

Taxi Driver and Takeaway Owner Non-Party

Duty Manager Aontú Beirne Angela Lisachurcia, Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Hairdresser Sinn Féin Claire Kerrane, Lissacurkia, Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Byrne Valerie Lisduff, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

County Councillor Non-Party Callaghan Liam Rathmoyle, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Crosby Tom Ballytoohey, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

Cull Leah Tullynahaw, Arigna, Co. Roscommon

Farmer and Public Representative Fine Gael

Public Representative and Businessman Non-Party

Trainee Psychotherapist Sinn Féin James F. McGivern, Derrynagallion, Arigna, Co. Roscommon Daly-Finn Dympna St. Ronans Park, Arigna, Co. Roscommon

Auxiliary Nurse Fine Gael Forde Paul Kingsland Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Postmaster and Farmer Independent Ireland

Frain Micheál Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Fire Fighter Non-Party Joe Duffy, Cloverhill, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Hussain Sajjad (Saj) 1 Gleannard, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Barber Non-Party Moylan Sean Quarryfield, Castleland, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

An Post Manager Fianna Fáil Rita Moylan, Castleland, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon Ó Miadh Caoimhín Lecarrow, Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Sampey Aidan Fairymount, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Shanahan Edmund The Law Library, Distillery Building, Church St. Dublin 7

Williams Doyle Rory 2 The Rookery, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon

Surname Other

Name(s)

Address

Farmer and Auctioneering

Non-Party

Factory Employee Fianna Fáil Vincent Moran, Portahard, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

Barrister and Academic The Irish People

Software Developer Sinn Féin Déaglán Caomhánach, Bunnamuca, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

ROSCOMMON LOCAL ELECTORAL AREA

Occupation

Description

Name of Political Party, if any

Brennan Larry Down the Hatch Pub, Church St., Roscommon Town Publican Fianna Fáil

Dineen Nigel Constituency Office, Main St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Finnegan Cathal Newtown, Donamon, Roscommon.

Fitzmaurice Paschal Ballindrimlea, Castlerea.

Hester Paul The Fairways, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Name and address of proposer, if any

Auctioneer and Public Representative Independent Ireland

Customer Service Agent Irish People Party

Public Representative and Shopkeeper Fianna Fáil

Aviation Stores Operative Green Party

McConn Robert 44 Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon. Bus and Taxi Driver Fine Gael

McDermott Marty 56 Oldwood, Roscommon Town

Shop Manager Fianna Fáil Bernard Kearney, Grange, Four Mile House, Roscommon.

McDonagh Christine Kiltymaine, Lisacul, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Ros Comáin. Support Worker Sinn Féin Seámus O’Brien, 24 Golf View, Arm, Castlerea

Scahill Gareth Fortagustus, Ballinlough, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Retailer Fine Gael

Slamen Justin Ardeevin, Castleplunket, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Waldron Anthony (Tony) Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Personal Trainer Irish Freedom Party

County Councillor Non-Party

Caitlín Conneely, Ceann Comhairimh/Returning Officer, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

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

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

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

WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY

At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Damien represents Lough Ree RNLI… at Buckingham Palace

Lough Ree RNLI were in attendance when the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) celebrated its 200th anniversary in style with a special garden party at Buckingham Palace on Thursday last, May 23rd

Around 2,500 of the RNLI’s longserving volunteers, staff and their families attended the garden party in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal, accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, and RNLI President HRH The Duke of Kent. Among those who attended from across the charity were lifeboat crew, lifeguards, water safety volunteers, fundraisers and recent recipients of meritorious service awards.

Lough Ree RNLI was represented at the celebration by founding volunteer

and Launch Authority Damien Delaney. Speaking in London, Damien said, “It was great to see the variety of volunteers from Ireland, the UK, and internationally gathered in a special place to mark the charity’s bicentenary”.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was a presentation by The Princess Royal of a Silver Medal for Gallantry to Penlee RNLI coxswain Patrick ‘Patch’ Harvey for his pivotal role in saving eight French sailors during a hurricane off Cornwall on October 31st 2022.

RNLI Chief Executive Mark Dowie said, “Patch’s courage, leadership and determination, and that of his entire crew that night, personified the dedication and commitment RNLI volun-

teers have displayed throughout our charity’s 200 years of lifesaving.

“It was an honour to meet so many of our long-serving volunteers, staff and their families and to thank them personally for their unwavering commitment. They are all lifesavers”.

Since the RNLI was founded on March 4th 1824, following an appeal to the nation from Sir William Hillary, the charity has saved more than 146,277 lives – this equates to an average of two lives saved every day for 200 years.

Today, the RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland, including four on the River Thames, and has seasonal lifeguards on around 240 lifeguarded beaches around the UK.

Roscommon branch of MS coffee mornings

The Roscommon branch of MS Ireland, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland, would love for anyone in County Roscommon living with MS or caring for someone with MS to join in at one of the following coffee mornings, taking place across the county.

On Thursday, June 13th, a coffee morning will be held at Ardcarne Garden Centre in Boyle. On Thursday, July 25th, a coffee

morning will take place at The Wooden Spoon in Ballyleague, Lanesborough. On Thursday, September 5th, one will be held at The Peppermill Restaurant on Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Each of the events will run from 10 am to 12 noon. Come along to meet and greet other people, and enjoy a coffee and a chat! For more, contact Teresa on 086 8256845.

Damien Delaney, founding volunteer and Launch Authority of Lough Ree RNLI, pictured at Buckingham Palace for the RNLI’s recent anniversary garden party.

Murray James

Murray James

VOICE AND A FRESH PERSPECTIVE.

SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY

PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

VOICE AND A FRESH PERSPECTIVE.

SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY

Murray

A STRONG YOUTHFUL VOICE AND A FRESH PERSPECTIVE. WORKING WITH SENATOR EUGENE MURPHY CONTINUE YOUR PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

PREFERENCE FOR CLLR. JOHN KEOGH

Murray

A STRONG YOUTHFUL VOICE AND A WORKING WITH SENATOR EUGENE CONTINUE YOUR PREFERENCE FOR

Death of Kilteevan native

Rev Fr Thomas Harlow

The death recently occurred of Rev Fr Thomas Harlow, SMA, of Blackrock in Cork, a native of Kilteevan in County Roscommon. Rev Fr Thomas passed away peacefully at the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork on May 15th 2024, at the age of eighty-four.

Rev Fr Thomas was ordained in 1964, going on to serve for 50 years as a member of the Society of African Missions (SMA), a catholic missionary society dedicated to the evangelisation of Africa and Africans through establishing faith communities and social development projects.

His early years as a missionary priest were spent in Liberia, doing pastoral work in the Bongi diocese and the Major Seminary. After a few years, Fr Harlow went on to a new appointment, overseeing Catechetics in the very busy Archdiocese of Monrovia. Due to ill health, he subsequently returned to Ireland, but continued to dedicate himself to his missionary work, spending the next six years in The Family Vocations community, raising funds for the society in Dublin. Despite success in generating support for the society and supporting the local community directly, Tom felt that this type of work was not what he was ordained for, that instead he should be in Africa. Accordingly, in 1979, he returned to Africa, this time to Nigeria, where he worked in the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode.

After another bout of ill health, he returned to Ireland again, where he remained for the rest of his Missionary life. He spent three

years on Mission awareness, speaking in Churches and schools and promoting the SMA. He then became leader of the SMA House of Promotion in Claremorris, before joining a Parish team in Neilstown in the Archdiocese of Dublin. After seven years, he took a well deserved break, before returning to SMA promotion for another six years. His last pastoral appointment saw him working for the next ten years in the Archdiocese of Armagh and finally in the SMA parish in Wilton, Cork. In 2014, he retired

from his duties due to ill health. Parish work and the spreading of the Gospel was always a top priority for Rev Fr Thomas, and through his easy manner and gentle approach with people, he was very successful in fostering good community relations, making many friends, and encouraging people to help themselves. He always offered support to those in need – offering encouragement, or a helpful book to read, keeping in touch, and promising to pray for them.

His family was very important to him, and he always kept in touch through phone calls and cards. He was particularly interested in the farm and the happenings around his native Kilteevan.

Rev Fr Thomas was predeceased by his parents James and Mary (née Spelman), his brother Eamon, and brother-in-law Paddy Farrell. His loss is deeply felt by his sisters Moira Farrell, Frances Harlow-Sheerin, and Gerty McManus, and by his brothers Vincent, Mixie, Denis and Tony, as well as his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, further relatives, friends, and neighbours. He will also be greatly missed by the people of the Archdiocese of Monrovia in Liberia, the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode in Nigeria, the Archdioceses of Dublin and Armagh, and his confreres in the Society of African Missions.

His Funeral Mass and burial took place is St Joseph’s SMA Church in Wilton, Cork. May he rest in peace.

newsbriefs

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon branch of the Society for Provention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be holding its annual Church gate collections at the following churches over the weekend of June 8th and 9th 2024. On Saturday, June 8th, a collection will take place in Crossna (Knockvicar) at St Patrick’s Church. On Sunday, June 9th, collections will take place in Drumboylan at St Patrick’s Church, in Corrigeenroe at St Therese’s Church, in Arigna at the Church of The Immaculate Conception of The Blessed Virgin Mary, in Keadue at the Church of the Nativity of The Blessed Virgin Mary, and in Scramogue at St Anne’s Church. This collection is a great opportunity for the RSPCA to raise much-needed funds for animal welfare work and also to raise awareness of the organisation’s mission and vision. To learn more, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Carmel Patterson and her granddaughter Isabelle Patterson pictured during Grandparents Day at Gaelscoil de hÍde in Roscommon town recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Pictured is the late Rev Fr Thomas Harlow.

Larry Brennan

LOCAL ELECTION CANDIDATE FOR ROSCOMMON LEA

Your Local Fianna Fáil Candidate

LARRY BRENNAN KEY PRIORITIES

Housing/Planning:

I will ensure that sufficient suitable and appropriate land is zoned to guarantee a plentiful supply of housing stock for the private, social, affordable and rental markets. I will support rural planning where appropriate and oppose any unsuitable developments. I will work with all stakeholders to ensure that all appropriate housing developments in urban areas get planning. As regards rural one-off housing, we must take a more common-sense approach. Nobody wants wreckless development like we had in the past but with modern treatment and percolation done to the highest and strictest standards, there is absolutely no threat to our environment. If common sense development is not permitted, then our rural communities will become non-existent.

Accessibility

Larry Brennan

While lots of good work has been done in recent years in Roscommon regarding access for people with disabilities of all ages, we should strive for better. People with disabilities should be afforded the opportunity to engage in the same interactions and enjoy the same services as a person without a disability in an equally effective and equally integrated manner, with substantially equivalent ease of use. Every public area should be accessible. I am committed to ensuring that all areas of Roscommon Town have adequate lighting and footpaths especially the back road from Hannons Hotel to the Roscommon Golf Club.

Transport:

I will work to improve our local transport network. I will support legislative change where required and support investment in local link services. We really need investment from either Local Government or Central Government to provide a local transport option that works for everyone. Roscommon does not have an adequate number of taxis and hackney operators servicing the local community. Entry into the sector needs to be made less restrictive and increased investment in local link services and taxi / hackney services are a priority.

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team at the Official launch of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh Monument’ in Roscommon Civic Offices with Chief Executive Shane Tiernan and sculptor Mark Feeley.

Jobs:

I will support Roscommon County Council in making decisions and investments in infrastructure that promote and deliver jobs across the area. Roscommon Town as a County Town should be considered as a worthy contender for possible Foreign Direct investment. Roscommon is a fabulous town and one of the nicest and safest i Ireland. We all want to keep it that way, however we need to focus on trying to retain our young people by providing local employment.

Healthcare:

Edenville House is an old military cavalry barracks, built in 1702. It was used as a barracks until 1869 and later became a private house, Black’s House, in 1907. It was purchased by Roscommon County Council in 1990. The house has been the subject of various studies in recent times and conservation works have been ongoing over the years repairing the roof, chimneys and windows under Roscommon County Council’s Conservation Officer. It is considered to be a nationally significant building; is intact and sound and is very evocative of past eras. It is ideally located beside Roscommon Railway station and is close to the town centre and all local amenities. As Chairperson of the Roscommon Town Team we are committed to preserving this building as part of our Heritage.

Sports Facilities and Facilities for the youth of Roscommon.

Roscommon Easter Festival Committee 2024.

As Chairman of the Roscommon Easter Festival with Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. John Keogh at the launch of our 2024 Festival.

I will support initiatives to improve healthcare across all sectors especially for intellectual disabilities and mental health Services with an emphasis on our adolescents. Improving our Healthcare services in Roscommon Municipal District is of paramount importance to me. I will Support improved packages for home carers in our community. Carers who are most often family members are providing care for their loved ones on a 24/7 basis and this needs to be recognised. Their devotion to their loved ones ensures that care can be provided in a home environment as opposed to a long-term care setting.

Roscommon is producing some of the finest young athletes in Ireland however there is room for improvement regarding the facilities provided. We are lacking an adequate Athletics track, basketball court, tennis court and the possibility of a skate park to mention but a few. I am committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the provision of adequate facilities for all sports outside of mainstream sports.

Arts Sector:

I am committed to improving supports for all sectors of the Arts community. I remain committed alongside Roscommon County Council and local businesses in supporting our Arts heritage. We are very fortunate to have an excellent facility in the Arts Centre in Roscommon.

As chairman of the Roscommon Easter Parade presenting Paddy Shaughnessy of Roscommon Ploughing Association with the first prize for best float 2024.

Larry Brennan

LOCAL ELECTION CANDIDATE FOR ROSCOMMON LEA

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team with fellow Town Team members and members of An Garda Siochana of Roscommon Town at the official launch of CCTV System.

Get in touch:

Barry Cowen TD Senator Lisa Chambers Senator Niall Blaney

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team at the Official launch of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh Monument’ in Roscommon Civic Offices with Chief Executive Shane Tiernan and sculptor Mark Feeley.

As Chairman of the Roscommon Easter Festival with Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. John Keogh at the launch of our 2024 Festival.

Roscommon Easter Festival Committee 2024.

As chairman of the Roscommon Easter Parade presenting Paddy Shaughnessy of Roscommon Ploughing Association with the first prize for best float 2024.

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team with fellow Town Team members and members of An Garda Siochana of Roscommon Town at the official launch of CCTV System.

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team with fellow Town Team members and members of An Garda Siochana of Roscommon Town at the o cial launch of CCTV System.

As Chairman of Roscommon Town Team at the O cial launch of ‘The Souls of Ranelagh Monument’ in Roscommon Civic O ces with Chief Executive Shane Tiernan and sculptor Mark Feeley.

Roscommon Easter Festival Committee 2024.

As Chairman of the Roscommon Easter Festival with Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. John Keogh at the launch of our 2024 Festival.

As chairman of the Roscommon Easter Parade presenting Paddy Shaughnessy of Roscommon Ploughing Association with the rst prize for best oat 2024.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life

...

With household prices going up, no wonder outings to the pub are down!

Our columnist Frank on the inescapably higher cost of living today – and how this feeds into the quieter local pub scene – air travel, ‘The Parish’ coming to Creggs, and a weekend of highs and lows on the sporting front…

One of the subjects that would often crop up over a few quiet pints is the fact that back in the 1950s and 1960s when we were supposed to be living in very poor times, our village (Creggs) had six pubs – and every one of them was busy! Not only that, but where most country pubs nowadays only open at 5 or 6 pm in the evening, and a lot of them close on at least one midweek night, in my younger days the pubs opened in the mornings and stayed open all day, every

day, until closing time – except on Sundays, when you had Holy hour between two and four o’clock. The idea behind that, as far as I know, was to make sure that the lads who went in for a few pints after Mass (opening time on a Sunday was 12 midday) would have to go home in time to have the Sunday dinner.

Anyway, we often discussed how the pubs were busy all the time, and one of the factors that influenced that situation was the fact that there were a lot of bachelors living around the parish. As any of us married men will know, particularly those with young families, in the present financial climate there isn’t quite the scope there used to be to go to the pub and there isn’t quite the same pressure on the single men and women.

However, the biggest difference is that back then there were much fewer bills. Water, waste, electricity, all kinds of insurance, car running costs, big mortgages, energy costs,

television and broadband, childcare and house taxes – among others – were all either non-existent or particularly low – whereas nowadays we seem to face a never-ending stream of bills!

The worst feature of all the service providers is that they are almost impossible to contact, and the bottom line seems to be that they will do everything to maximise what they can get from their customers.

During the last week, I have contacted Sky, Eir, and Electric Ireland in efforts to get various contracts reduced, and the bottom line is that I might as well have been trying to push a ten-ton truck up a hill.

The lady I spoke to from Sky, who was very pleasant and friendly but unable to help me in any way, was based in India. Meanwhile, after going through several different operators, my EIR contact told me that as my previous contract had expired last month, I now had to

Unflappable flyer

I have never had a fear of flying; while others would be feasting on Xanax and such medicines to settle their nerves, I would happily hop on board the plane without even the slightest hesitation. I wouldn’t even have to suck on a hard sweet during takeoff, and I am normally so relaxed that I sleep for large parts of whatever journey I’m on.

Way back in the 1980s, when Ryanair was in its infancy, I flew from Shan-

non to London in one of its ‘early’ planes – one with propellers – which almost shook the life out of all the passengers. The lad that was with me turned every colour of the rainbow. By the time we landed in London, he was as white as a sheet, but I was as sound as a bell. Anyway, since then, while by no means a frequent flyer, I have been airborne a good few times, and have never experienced any major inconvenience – except for

having to stay on the plane on the runway in Dublin for hours because of a volcanic eruption over in Iceland. But all of a sudden, turbulence on flights seems to be becoming a big problem, and after last week’s terrifying incident involving Singapore Airlines, in which an English passenger had a heart attack and died (and a large number were injured, of whom 48 are still having medical treatment), we now had something similar on a

flight from Qatar to Dublin. Without being an expert on such stuff, it seems that global warming is playing a part in the increased risk of turbulence, but despite these two high profile incidents, the risk of severe turbulence damage is still relatively low.

As of now, I have no plans to fly anywhere in the near future, but when I do, I hope to travel exactly as before –no Xanax or ‘sucky sweets’ required.

pay the full amount, which was an increase from €54 a month to €93 a month. She insisted that there was no onus on them to notify me of the increase, but as I had now rang them, she could do a new contract for €56 a month. I asked her what would happen if I pulled out of the contract early and she laughed and said that wouldn’t happen as I would have to pay them €1,700 for early release.

Then I rang Electric Ireland to chat about my newest bill, which despite us having signed up for a smart meter, had shown a significant increase, and at the end of it all, despite what seemed like endless hours on the phone, I hadn’t achieved any reductions of note. To cap it all, I have since seen that electricity wholesale costs have come down by 30%... it certainly hasn’t applied to me.

Anyway, with all the bills that arrive every single week and month, is it any wonder we have a lot less money left for socialising?

The parish raves about ‘The Parish’

Out here in Creggs, over the weekend we had an unusual occurrence, when a large portion of the parish went to the Parish Hall to see ‘The Parish’ on Saturday night.

‘The Parish’ in question was a play written and performed by two Cork lads, Michael Ryan and Sean Kelleher, and while I couldn’t make it, by all accounts it was an absolutely hilarious production. Basically, the two lads bring to life various characters that can be found in every parish in the country, and the huge crowd that turned up thoroughly enjoyed it.

And finally…

The local community development people were responsible for putting on the show, and as it was such a success, hopefully they will bring more and more acts to the parish.

It all reminds me of my young days when there were all kinds of travelling shows, including Punch and Judy, magicians, comedians and even mini-circuses calling to the schools. Sadly all those type of things have disappeared, but at least on Saturday night last we were privileged to have something different brought to the parish!

Here’s to the next one!

It would be hard for me not to mention the huge weekend of sport we just had.

For all of us long-suffering Manchester United supporters, the winning of the FA Cup, and in doing so beating the almost invincible Manchester City, still has me buzzing on this Monday morning. However, Leinster’s losing streak in Champions Cup finals, coupled with the departure of our Galway hurlers from the championship, has reduced the euphoric feeling. I wonder if ‘King’ Henry Shefflin will consider walking away from his contract with the Tribesmen. And then there was the tragic death of PGA golfer Grayson Murray at 30 years of age, which puts sport into perspective and reminds us all that there are many more important things out there; mental health is such an important subject, and despite great forward strides having been made, there is still a lot to be done.

And so, after such a massive sporting weekend, with great successes and joy for lots of different teams, and the consequent disappointment and sorrow for others, it’s only right that the biggest impact of all is the sad passing of Grayson Murray. May he rest in peace.

Pat and Geraldine Heneghan pictured at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Championships, held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Yvonne Burke and Phil O’Connor from Ballintubber pictured at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Championships, held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

YOUR FIANNA FÁIL TEAM forRoscommon

Athlone LEA

Cllr. John

Roscommon LEA

Larry

Keogh

James Murray

Boyle LEA

Sean Moylan

Aidan

Sampey

Working

Brennan

Cllr. Paschal

Fitzmaurice

Cllr. Marty

McDermott

Niall Blaney

Pictured in Monksland last Thursday were (left to right) MEP Maria Walsh, Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), Minister Heather Humphreys, Cllr John Naughten, Deputy Denis Naughten, Cllr Laurence Fallon and Senator Aisling Dolan. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Minister Heather Humphreys is taken on a tour of the new Monksland Innovation Hub last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Members of Monksland Town Team, Council Chief Executive Shane Tiernan, Minister Heather Humphreys and local politicians pictured at the site of the new Monksland Public Park last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), addresses guests at the turning of the sod for Monksland Public Park, last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Minister Humphreys opens new Monksland Innovation Hub and community park

Minister for Rural and Community Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, visited Monksland on Thursday, May 23rd, to officially open a new Regional Innovation Hub and to turn the sod on a planned new community park.

The Regional Innovation Hub, spanning 14,000 square feet, aims to be a major driver of local enterprise and job creation, providing a high-quality environment for entrepreneurs with full support from local and regional agencies.

Funded by the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF), the total project cost of €4.25 million includes €3.2 million in grant funding and just over €1 million in matched funding provided by Roscommon County Council.

The project was initiated by Roscommon County Council in consultation with Monksland Town Team and the local business community. Works on the project were carried out by Coolsivna Construction Group Ltd from Mountbellew, Co Galway, with design support from Collins Boyd Architects.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh, highlighted the significance of the Innovation Hub for Monksland: “The small and mediumsized business sector is the lifeblood of our local economy”.

Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, praised the development: “This exciting development fur-

ther cements this region’s reputation as the main industrial and economic driver of the county. It also enhances the life sciences cluster that has long been and now is firmly rooted in Monksland.

“This RRDF-funded project focuses on establishing an Innovation Hub centred around the Life Science industry in Monksland, with ‘hands-on’ support aimed at fostering enterprise and

jobs in new and growing sectors.

“This Innovation Hub supports the overarching objective of the current Regional and Spatial Economic Strategy, which designates Athlone as a regional growth centre under the Government’s National Planning Framework”.

During her visit, Minister Humphreys also turned the sod on the new Monksland Community

Park. This project is being delivered through Town and Village funding of just over €750,000, with approximately 9% matched funding from Roscommon County Council and Monksland Town Team.

The park will feature a multi-use, multi-generational area with play areas, a skate park, a shaded dwell area, trails, seating, lighting, and a car parking facility.

The project is intended

to provide connectivity between residential and commercial areas in Monksland and includes a biodiversity area and a performance space with tiered seating.

The park’s design was undertaken by Building Design Partnership (BDP), and construction is being carried out by Kenny Civils and Plant Ltd, with an expected completion date in the final quarter of this year.

Members of the Monksland Town Team pictured with Minister Heather Humphreys, Roscommon County Council

Chief Executive Shane Tiernan, the contractor, and Cllr John Keogh (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) on the occasion last Thursday of the o cial opening of the new Monksland Innovation Hub. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Minister Heather Humphreys o cially opened the new Monksland Innovation Hub last Thursday. Photograph shows Minister Humphreys (third from left), local politicians and the contractor for the project, and (second from right) Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Members of Monksland Town Team, Council Chief Executive Shane Tiernan, Minister Heather Humphreys and local politicians pictured at the new Monksland Innovation Hub last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Lecarrow Benevolent Fund auction deferred

The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund are deferring their annual auction until later this year. It had been scheduled to take place in early June.

In a press statement, the Benevolent Fund thanked all the people of the parish and their many sponsors for their great support. A new date will be published later.

Launch of National Sunflower Day

The launch of National Sunflower Day, being held locally in aid of the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice, will take place in Gleeson’s Restaurant, The Square, Roscommon Town, on Friday, May 31st, from 10 am to 1 pm. Volunteers are required to

help out for this year’s Sunflower Day, which takes place on Friday, June 7th 2024. For more, or if interested in volunteering, please contact Nuala on 086 3242955 or Margaret on 087 2331114.

Cloonfad United fans Ben Gallagher, Matthew Waldron and Oisín Finnegan pictured at last Sunday’s RDFL Challenge Cup nal between CP Ajax and Cloonfad in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Commemorate our Rich Cultural Heritage

Commemorate our Rich Cultural Heritage

Overcome Loneliness in County Roscommon Maximise the Potential of Tourism

Overcome Loneliness in County Roscommon Maximise the Potential of Tourism Promote Independent Living For The Disabled

Commemorate our Rich Cultural Heritage Overcome Loneliness in County Roscommon Maximise the

Promote Independent Living For The Disabled Castlerea Fire Services

really wonderful again. For the past 3 years, I have

Addressing Loneliness.

Castlerea Fire Services

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

‘Peaceful protest’ in Strokestown on Sunday over ‘€8m plan’

A group of concerned residents and business people in Strokestown have called for a peaceful protest this Sunday, June 2nd at 2 pm.

The demonstration is in opposition to the current ‘public realm enhancement’ plan

Senator Murphy in tribute to late FF stalwarts

Senator Eugene Murphy has paid tribute to the late Martin Connaughton and also to the late Michael Coyne, both of whom passed away recently and both of whom were closely associated with Fianna Fáil.

“I served on the Council with Martin”, said Senator Murphy. “He liked to describe himself as ‘a man of the people’ – and that he surely was.

“He was a very effective representative on behalf of the people and had a great way of solving difficult issue. He did considerable work for Fianna Fáil and was one of the best ticket sellers the party had nationally.

“I extend sympathy to his family and I know they will miss him greatly”.

Senator Murphy also lamented the passing of Michael Coyne from Fairymount, who was laid to rest recently.

“He was an extraordinary man and lived a very healthy and active life well into his 108th year”, he commented. “He was very active in Fianna Fáil right up to recently; he would attend party events.

“A wonderful man to converse with, Michael received excellent care from his nephew Niall McGarry over the years. May Martin and Michael rest in peace”.

which was recently awarded nearly €8 million in funding. The demonstration is being organised to highlight dissatisfaction that despite over 100 submissions seeking to have parking preserved in key parts of the town, the final

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has welcomed the installation of traffic lights at a junction in Frenchpark which has long been considered dangerous.

Deputy Kerrane said she is very

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

now

most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre

over 1000 bodies. I pledge to

an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

Roscommon Work-House ‘An Gorta Mor’, was one of the most severely over-crowded Work-Houses in the country. This served the parishes of Roscommon Town, Kilteevan, FourMileHouse, Kilbride, Castleplunket, Oran, Athleague, Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Clonfinlough, Rahara, Cloontuskert, Cloonigormican, Elphin, Fuerty, Kilgefin, Killuckin, Kiltrustan, Knockcroghery, Lisonuffy, Strokestown, Tulsk, Donomon, and Kilbegnet, The Work-House was originally built for 900 but at one stage there were over 3100 totally reliant on it. People died on a weekly basis and were buried in a mass unmarked grave in Bully’s Acre which may now contain over 1000 bodies. I pledge to achieving an appropriate permanent Commemoration to these Famine Victims.

plan that received part 8 planning was altered to include only nine additional parking spaces, with estimates that parking in the town could be restricted by up to 90% against current levels. The organisers of the demon-

stration have said the investment is needed but is being used in the wrong way. They hope that by making a last-minute appeal to Roscommon County Council, the plan could go ahead with some “common sense change”.

Traffic lights installed at Frenchpark junction – Kerrane

proud to have delivered these road safety measures in Frenchpark, just a few short years after being elected.

“For decades, politicians have spoken of the danger posed by this junction, and accident after acci-

dent, there was the usual talk… which then disappeared.

“I know some people will be put out by having to wait a few seconds at the traffic lights, but for me, this was about saving lives and preventing accidents. That has to come first.

“There was no measure at this crossroads that would allow visibility exiting both the Boyle and Castlerea roads, and so traffic lights were the only solution”.

Deputy Kerrane said that she had engaged with a number of residents and businesses with a view to persuading the Council to make changes.

“Key to this was retaining parking, which I always said was critical to any changes. This will now be a very different road layout and so I will be keeping a close eye on how it works, and if there are any teething issues, I will seek to have them resolved”.

Deputy Kerrane concluded:

“Once the ESB connect the traffic lights, they will function going forward. This is a good day for Frenchpark”.

Inspiring Rural Creativity; 2024 Addressing Loneliness.

Deputy Claire Kerrane, pictured with local election candidate Angela Beirne.

raise vital funds for children’s cancer charity

The annual Tibohine Fly-In, a staple in the flying and community calendar, will take place this weekend, Saturday, June 1st, and Sunday, June 2nd, (weather depending), with all proceeds going to Childhood Cancer Ireland (CCI).

The event, run by James Morrisroe and members of Tibohine Flying Club, fell victim to the bad weather last year, but this year all involved are hoping to build on the substantial sum of approximately €48,000 that has been raised for various local charities over the years.

Speaking about the Fly-In, James said, “We are delighted to bring the community together for

this fun event and to raise money for our chosen charity, Childhood Cancer Ireland, which will benefit the local community directly. The charity supports families throughout the county and it’s fantastic to know that our event can have a positive impact for families in the area at a really difficult time in their lives”.

Childhood Cancer Ireland is the national parent and survivor-led charity giving voice to children and young people with cancer, survivors and their families.

Laura Cullinan from Strokestown, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland, said that funds raised

at Tibohine Fly-In will contribute to upgrading regional hospital facilities for childhood cancerrelated treatments and illnesses.

Tibohine Airfield is located in Tibohine, Co Roscommon. Admission for spectators and families is a minimum donation of €5, all of which goes to Childhood Cancer Ireland. There will be a BBQ on both days and lots of fun for all the family over the weekend from 1 pm to 6 pm on Saturday, and from 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday.

For more details, contact James Morrisroe at Tibohine Flying Club on 086 250 0153.

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

TOP: Tibohine Flying Club hosts their annual Fly-In this coming Saturday and Sunday, June 1st and 2nd

LEFT: James Morrisroe (centre) pictured presenting the fundraised money following a recent Tibohine Fly-in.

EUROPEAN ELECTIONS and LOCAL ELECTIONS

7TH JUNE, 2024

INACCESSIBLE POLLING STATIONS

TAKE NOTICE:- That the following Polling Stations in the Constituency of Roscommon are wheelchair inaccessible:-

• Elphin Convent School

• Lecarrow Community National School

Any Person Registered to vote at these Polling Stations may apply in writing to me at roscommon@irishro.com or Local Returning O cer, PRA Building, Golf Links Road, Roscommon. on or before Friday 31st May, 2024 to be allocated an alternative Polling Station in which to vote.

AnnMarie Courell Local Returning O cer

Regina and Michael Dunning from Athlone pictured with their son, Killian at the recent Roscommon Ploughing Championships, held on the Beirne family farm in Ballinaheglish. Pic: Kieran Croghan

From Berlin to Ireland: Castlerea’s Tricia Collins to return for home-town concert

WILL BE JOINED BY THE SIRENS AND YONDER BOYS

A night of fantastic music at Trinity Arts Centre will see Castlerea native Tricia Collins grace the stage to deliver her classic folk style, along with the enchanting harmonies of The Sirens and the footstomping tunes of Yonder Boys. It’s certain to be a night to remember, so grab your friends and get ready to dance the night away!

Castlerea native Tricia is travelling from her current base in Berlin to take to the stage in her home-town. With tender, evocative vocals, irresistible hooks, and lyrics that resonate deeply, Tricia, along with her acoustic guitar, masterfully weaves a musical tapestry that speaks to the hearts of her listeners.

Following the release of her first EP in January 2024, Tricia is embarking on a summer tour, with a series of concerts throughout Ireland, Germany, and

the UK – with Trinity Arts Centre in her home-town among the many lucky stops! Joining Tricia on stage are two Berlin-based bands – The Sirens and Yonder Boys.

The Sirens are a musical grouping consisting of four talented female singersongwriters – Mone, Lena Minder, Olivia Void and Lotta St Joan. Sometimes performing alone, sometimes together, they reliably enchant audiences time and again with songs about longing, passion, pain and love.

The Yonder Boys, meanwhile, are a band featuring three male musicians – American Jason Serious (vocals, guitar), Australian David Stewart Ingleton (vocals, banjo), and Chilean Tomas Peralta (vocals, mandolin, banjo, bass). The group stand brazenly on the edge of Americana, bluegrass,

newgrass, and folk; while performing on traditional bluegrass instruments, their songs and performances focus on experimentation and their love for beautiful three-part vocal harmonies. Their first album ‘Acid Folk’ (2020) has been featured on BBC Radio, RTÉ

Radio, Dublin City FM, Deutschlandfunk Kultur, and MTV Australia, and the band has toured extensively.

The performance begins at 8 pm on Saturday, June 8th, at Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea (F45AW27). Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets cost just €20 and

are available for purchase on Eventbrite. For more, contact trinityartscastlerea@hotmail. com. To keep up to date, find Trinity Arts Centre on Facebook, and follow Tricia Collins, The Sirens, and the Yonder Boys on social media and streaming platforms.

Pictured is Castlerea native Tricia Collins (currently based in Berlin), who is returning to her home-town this June to perform at Trinity Arts Centre, along with Berlin-based bands The Sirens and Yonder Boys.

‘What goes up, must also come down’

What recent turbulent flights signal about how anthropogenic climate change is manifesting

Let’s talk about

Climate change’s unexpected impacts

Oftentimes, when I am reading catastrophic opinion pieces about the environment, I recall a conversation I once had with a group of friends. Someone was off-handedly talking about how “Climate change is killing the planet”, when another person in the group piped up with, “It’s killing us, the planet will be fine. Only more so if it does kill us”. Besides being an absolute optimist, the interrupter was also omitting a key detail. Because, of course, it’s not just “us”; human life is far from the only type of life being affected by the environmental crisis. Anthropogenic climate change (caused by human activity) is occurring at a speed and scale that outpaces many species’ ability to adapt. When we talk about impact, it’s important to recognise that it’s not just about our extinction, but about the annihilation of the countless other forms of life that share our planet.

But the interrupter’s main point, about the resilience of the planet itself, was generally understood.

Earth has endured drastic changes throughout its history, long before humans existed. The planet has demonstrated a remarkable resilience and capacity for life to adapt, evolve, and diversify, even after massive extinction events. In the worst-case scenario, where we do nothing and weather events intensify and intensify into un-liveability, the end of “us” is just that; not necessarily the end of anything else. Climate change poses serious (and indeed potentially fatal) challenges to current ecosystems and human societies, but, to the aforementioned-interrupter’s point, that isn’t to say it’s “killing the planet” itself.

But the more compelling (and dare I say, slightly-less nitpick-y) aspect of their point, the thing that springs to my mind regularly when reading about the climate crisis’s latest tragedy, is the idea of ‘balance’ behind it. That we, as humans, have done such harm to the environment, that the environmental changes we induced are now putting us at risk of harm, “killing us”.

Between rises in floods, heatwaves, hurricanes, wildfires, droughts, sea levels, and storm surges, the consequences of climate change have been plain to see, and increasingly so, for some time now. New records are set like clockwork – “all-time high”, “hottest month ever”, “wettest month ever” etc. But we’re also seeing this impact manifesting in ways we maybe wouldn’t have predicted; things like unusual weather events in atypical regions, new animal migration patterns and hybrids, and even, as recent events have illustrated, more turbulent plane rides.

On Sunday, a Qatar Airways flight into Dublin encountered serious turbulence above Turkey, reportedly causing people to “hit the

roof” of the plane. This incident came just five days after headlines broke about the Singapore Airlines flight that hit sudden turbulence above Myanmar, causing it to dramatically lose altitude, and leading to the death of one passenger and injuries to 104 others.

The quick succession between these two specific incidences is sort of coincidental; aviation experts have reported no obvious atmospheric or meteorological occurrences linking the events directly. But generally speaking, incidents of severe turbulence are on the rise, jumping 55% between 1979 and 2020.

Climate change has intensified the occurrence of ‘clean turbulence’, which, as opposed to turbulence caused by storms or terrain features, arises almost without warning. It cannot be seen on a radar, meaning less opportunity for evasive safety measures, even those as minor as getting the seatbelt light turned on before turbulence hits. A warming world destabilises the upper atmosphere, with different weather systems – differing air pressure, temperature, and wind speed, etc – colliding to result in potentially violent outcomes.

Aviation experts contend that despite all this, air travel remains a remarkably safe way to travel, even commenting that modern vessels are in fact performing particularly impressively given just how extreme weather changes have become – this in tandem with the ever-evolving safety standards being put in place to respond to new challenges facing the industry.

This exemplifies one of many ways we are earnestly trying to protect ourselves by adapting to new climate conditions. But unfortunately, we

are only pushing the boat out if we’re not also working to stop the harm we’re inflicting in the first place.

If we continue with this trajectory, the ways in which we have damaged the environment will inevitably come back to bite us – often in ironic ways. For example: overfishing will do more untold damage to marine life, monoculture farming and excessive irrigation will further soil degradation and water depletion, deforestation will increase the risk and severity of wildfires, and for all the more planes we put in the sky, we will become less and less assured of their safety. What goes up, must come down.

Were it not for how impossible it is to ignore the very real, devastating impact this has on people’s lives and livelihoods, it would be almost poetic: personify the planet, and you can look at it as Mother Earth, fed up with all our transgressions, deciding enough is enough and washing out the humans with tsunamis and floods, flicking them away with earthquakes, plucking them and their polluting vessels out of the sky with turbulence. It goes back to that idea of ‘balance’, and the planet’s resilience through adaptation, a balance that, playing out in the current context, feels almost karmic. Biblical. Something akin to the story of Noah’s Ark.

But luckily, unlike Mr Noah, we are not at the complete mercy of an Old Testament God – however much it may be slimming, we do have opportunity to alleviate the crisis in some way.

The dangerous tipping points that signal irreversible damage, which we’re heard about for years, are now realities we are staring down the

barrel at. Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average. The world is warming quicker than anticipated, and the forecast was already dismal. Minister for Climate Eamon Ryan stressed this development this week, warning that, “We’re heading towards a 2.5-degree world that has huge risks attached to it”. The latest projections published recently by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) showed Ireland was not on course to meet its carbon emissions reduction targets – we’re set to reduce by just 29%... the legally-binding target being 51%. I know we’re all sick to death of hearing the same calls to actions about the environment, but there has never been a time that such urgent, dramatic action, and stringent limits, were as needed.

It’s worth noting though that Minister Ryan and environmental groups have highlighted that EPA’s projections don’t tell the full story; some of the Government’s policies were not backed up with detailed implementation plans in time, and so weren’t included in figures. So hopefully when everything does come together, meaningful change will be enacted in time.

Friends of the Earth chief executive Oisín Coghlan commented this week that one silver lining to this news is that “The Government knows what it has to do, it just needs to get on with it faster”. In this year of elections, it’s vital politicians are made fully aware that “getting on with it” needs to be a top priority on their agendas – because if we keep letting the damage pile up, the devastating consequences will come crashing down on us, in some way or another.

Alannah Ita Healy

(A student’s perspective)

Waldron receives support on Bully’s Acre project

At Monday’s meeting of Roscommon County Council, one of the key historical sites in Roscommon, ‘Bully’s Acre’ – a historic famine graveyard in Slevinagee – was again the subject of a notice of motion submitted by Independent councillor, Anthony Waldron.

At a previous meeting of the Council, Cllr Waldron had made the case for the hundreds of famine victims who are buried in unmarked graves at Bully’s Acre be formally commemorated.

Victims of the Great Famine in the 19th century were buried in a field known as ‘Bully’s Acre’ in Roscommon Town. However, their final resting place isn’t even

acknowledged by a sign, much less a commemorative monument.

A previous notice of motion submitted by Cllr Waldron read as follows: “That Roscommon County Council appropriately commemorate the victims of An Gorta Mór by devising a heritage development plan to remember the people of Roscommon buried in Bully’s Acre in the townland of Slevinagee off Antogher Road in the town of Roscommon”.

Speaking this week, Cllr Waldron told the Roscommon People: “I have worked with the community to ensure a submission was made to have this area recognised on maps in the Local Area Plan (LAP).

“The submission also requests the development of access, the erection of a monument, and the restoration of the physical links between the workhouse and its graveyard,” Cllr Waldron explained.

Cllr Waldron has also proposed the construction of a footpath along the River Jiggy, which he believes would connect and highlight historic and heritage landmarks in the locality.

“My motion before the council on this matter followed a twoweek consultation process and I am delighted to announce that it was adopted by the council members last Monday”.

MY PRIORITIES

 Upgrading local roads

 Working with local communities to improve our villages and facilities for young people

 Addressing flooding issues in South Roscommon

 Working with and supporting the farming community

Launch of Historical & Archaeological Journal on Wednesday

The County Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will launch their latest bi-annual journal next week. It is long considered one of the foremost such journals of any society in the country.

The publication, a key reference point for many historians and archaeologists, as well as a source of immense information on the county’s rich heritage, will be launched on Wednesday, June 5th in Cruachan Ai Centre in Tulsk at 7.30 pm.

The journal will be launched by Nollaig Feeney, Roscommon County Council’s Heritage Officer. The journal will feature a wide range of historical and archaeological articles relating to County Roscommon and its environs.

Among the articles to feature in this year’s journal are a profile of Aleen Isobel Cust, the first female vet to work in Ireland or Britain (1868-1937); the De Freyne Rent Strike, a profile of Fr Jack O’Brien, and an overview of Knockcroghery during the War of Independence and Civil War.

Other articles in the journal include a look at the Revolutionary years in the Mount Talbot area; the Hard-won GAA grounds

of County Roscommon, and a look at the Tarmon Church of Ireland School Conservation Report.

The journal is recognised for its level of excellence and variety. Members of the public are invited to attend the launch and copies of the journal will be on sale on the night.

Angela Cahill, Valerie Cahill, Noeline O’Connor and Mary Keany pictured at the Creggs RFC Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon recently. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Nollaig Feeney, Roscommon County Council’s Heritage O ce

An Chistin Food Hub officially opened by Humphreys

for Rural and Community Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, officially opened the An Chistin Food Hub on Thursday, May 23rd. This 10,500 sq. ft. facility is designed to bolster local food production and foster economic growth in the region.

Funded by the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF), the project’s total cost was €3.7 million. The Department provided over €2.7 million in funding, with just under €1 million in matched funding from Roscommon County Council. Managed by Castlerea Food Enterprise Centre CLG, the hub aims to support food businesses and create employment in County Roscommon.

Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, highlighted the importance of the hub: “The products that will be produced at the hub will be sourced locally and manufactured to the highest standards, providing quality products for commercial, niche food markets, and the tourism sectors”.

An Chistin is an incubation space for food production, innovation, and new ideas. Roscommon has long since been identified as a county with an immense ability to produce quality raw materials for the food sector.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh, praised the new facility: “This will provide much-needed jobs both locally and in the region. The overall aim is to encourage the growth of new food enterprises, which will retain and grow employment in the region in an important sector”.

Minister Heather Humphreys visited Kilteevan Community Centre last Thursday, where she met with a number of local community groups, public representatives and election candidates. Left to right: Senator Aisling Dolan, Robert McConn (Fine Gael candidate), Ned Gilligan, Minister Humphreys, Eileen Fahey, David Gibbons, Michael Fahey and Gareth Scahill (Fine Gael election candidate).

Minister Heather Humphreys visited Kilteevan Community Centre last Thursday, where she met with a number of local community groups, as well as public representatives and election candidates. Pictured are John Donohoe, Sean Mooney, Minister Humphreys, and Larry Brennan.

Food for thought: Minister Heather Humphreys enjoying a light moment with guests at the official opening of An Chistin Food Incubation hub in Castlerea last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Minister Heather Humphreys officially opened An Chistin Food Incubation hub in Castlerea last Thursday. Minister Humphreys is pictured with guests who attended on the day, including members of Castlerea Town Team, local public representatives/candidates, contractors, and Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Minister

Members of the McElhone family pictured with Minister Heather Humphreys, public representatives and Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council, on the occasion of the official opening of the An Chistin Food Incubation hub in Castlerea last Thursday. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Reynolds calls for relaxation of planning regulations

European election candidate James Reynolds has urged the Government to ease planning regulations and reduce financial levies on new house construction to help address the housing crisis.

Speaking while campaigning in Donegal, James Reynolds of the National Party emphasised the need for urgent action to lower the cost of building new homes: “Current and proposed government initiatives and tax incentives do not solve the core housing issue.

“I am calling on the Government to make two key changes to make homeownership more attainable and affordable. First, by reducing the financial contributions levied by the State on new house construction, and second, by relaxing rural planning restrictions”.

The Irish House Builders Association indicates that around 40% of the cost of building a new home goes to the Government through VAT, levies, and PAYE/PRSI charges.

“That’s €100,000 on a €250,000 house. It’s an exorbitant amount to extract from people trying to purchase a home. This significantly contributes to the unaffordability of houses,” claimed Mr Reynolds.

Reynolds pointed out the numerous costs faced by individuals, couples, and property developers aiming to build new homes.

“It is more expensive to build a house in Ireland than anywhere else in the world when all factors are considered. The Government’s take of 40% of the finished house cost is a major factor in this”.

Walsh highlights employment growth

Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh has hailed figures released recently which indicate that Ireland has reached its highest rate of employment on record, with over 50,000 more people in work this year.

MEP Walsh, a candidate in Midlands-North-West, has highlighted the latest figures from the Labour Force Survey published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), noting that 2,713,400 people are now employed nationally.

“Employment has increased by 50,500 since January 2023, and we have seen a 7,700 increase in the last few months alone. Behind these statistics are real people, and I have met many of them during my time as an MEP over the past five years,” MEP Walsh said. MEP Walsh added: “Back in 2020, the Programme for Government set out to create 200,000 new jobs by 2025. Since then, employment has increased by 542,900”.

campaign

New projects will ‘put heart’ into Monksland

The new innovation hub and community park in Monksland will help to “put a heart” into the local area, Cllr John Naughten has outlined.

Cllr Naughten welcomed the recent visit to the area by Minister Heather Humphreys, where she performed the official opening of Monksland innovation hub and turned the sod at the location of the new community park.

Cllr Naughten pointed out that Roscommon County Council is investing significantly in community facilities in the Monksland area through funding secured under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and other funding streams.

“The development of the innovation hub will add significantly to the economic development of the area and will offer opportunities to start-up businesses and people working remotely, to operate in a collaborative space with the availability of hot-desking facilities and highspeed broadband,” stated Cllr Naughten.

“This is a great opportunity for those people to access a high-quality facility in Monksland”.

Welcoming the turning of the sod for the new local park, Cllr Naughten said, “This park is part of the overall masterplan for the area and for putting a heart into Monksland in combination with the innovation hub and significant public realm investment over the next number of years.

“Together there is no doubt these developments will put a heart into Monksland”, he concluded.

James Reynolds, of the Irish National Party

Cllr John Naughten pictured with Minister Heather Humphreys during her recent visit.

Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh

Fianna Fáil candidate Aidan Sampey (Boyle Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Elections Returning O cer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r): John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair; Katie Curtin, Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil; Fiona Drury and Vincent Moran. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice (Roscommon Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Elections Returning O cer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r): Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil; P Burke, Fianna Fáil National Executive and John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fianna Fáil candidate James Murray (Athlone Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Elections Returning O cer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r): Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil; Sarah Murray and John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh (Athlone Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Election Returning O cer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r): Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil; Anne Kelly, Campaign Manager and John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Voice of the People

Brooks criticises ‘lack of action’ on rural decline

Sam Brooks, a Sinn Féin local election candidate in the Athlone Local Electoral Area, has criticised what he considers to be a lack of action on maintaining services in rural communities. His comments followed a recent visit to Attyrory, a small community in South Roscommon, where the local national school was shut down a few years ago.

“Seeing this building abandoned is heartbreaking and just another example of constant decline in our communities,” Mr Brooks said.

“The wider Taughmaconnell/Moore/Creagh area has been completely let down in recent years with public services like schools, Garda stations, and post offices shut down, local businesses and shops

forced to close, and local transport routes being cut”.

Mr Brooks noted that Attyrory National School had works done prior to its closure which he has branded as “short-sighted”, given the overcrowding in other local schools: “We have seen a similar pattern of short-sightedness when it comes to our other public services and it is clear that these decision-makers up in Dublin are out of touch with the needs and wants of our rural communities”.

Mr Brooks, a first-time candidate, expressed his motivation for entering the election: “I am sick and tired of seeing my local communities constantly pushed aside because no one in power is willing to fight for them,” he stated.

Speed a major concern on Old Tuam Road – Cllr Naughten

Cllr John Naughten has expressed concern regarding speeding vehicles on the Old Tuam Road in Monksland, and has proposed additional speed tables to address the problem.

“I have been contacted by a number of resi-

dents who have ongoing concerns in relation to speeding at this location,” said Cllr Naughten.

“I will be requesting that Roscommon County Council installs additional speed tables along the Old Tuam Road.

“This is primarily a residential area and a residential road, yet there continues to be significant issues with vehicles travelling over the speed limit, particularly during the busy morning and evening rush hour periods”.

Crosby welcomes progress on addressing speeding concerns in local estates

At last Monday’s plenary meeting of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Tom Crosby got the full support from his elected colleagues on a motion he had put on the agenda.

The motion in question proposed that the council install speed ramps in housing estates where families are, according to

Crosby, currently living in fear of speeding traffic entering and leaving the estate.

Cllr Crosby made the case that signage and road markings were no deterrent to the offenders, and as such, the only solution to this serious and urgent problem was putting in place speed ramps in order to force speeding traffic to

slow down, and allow families to have their young children play safely outside their homes.

Cllr Crosby stated that there have been many instances of speeding traffic in local housing estates that have caused parents to be fearful of allowing their young children outside their front door.

It was agreed at the council meeting that the matter would be referred to the Roads SPC to come up with an appropriate safety policy, wherein residents’ committees or management companies could make an application to the council for speed ramps and other safety measures. Cllr Crosby welcomed this agreement.

Chambers welcome Ireland’s recognition of State of Palestine

Senator Lisa Chambers, a Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-North-West and Spokesperson on EU and Foreign Affairs, has welcomed Ireland’s announcement to formally recognise the State of Palestine, which took effect on Tuesday of this week.

“This is a hugely significant and historic moment for our country and for the international community,” Senator Chambers stated.

“The Irish Government’s decision is a powerful statement of our commitment to peace, justice, and the recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination”.

Senator Chambers expressed her hope that this recognition would serve as a catalyst for positive change, helping to bring about a much-needed ceasefire and an end to the violence in Gaza: “The situation in Gaza is dire, with ongoing conflict causing immense suffering and loss of life. The international community must act decisively to support efforts towards a peaceful resolution,” she said.

“Ireland’s recognition of Palestine is a step in the right direction and a call for other nations to join in acknowledging the need for a two-state solution,” she added, continuing: “Our Government’s decision reflects the values of compassion and solidarity that are central to our nation’s foreign policy”.

‘Concrete action needed’ after historic Palestine announcement –MacManus

Sinn Féin MEP for Midlands-North-West, Chris MacManus, has welcomed the recognition of Palestinian statehood by Ireland.

MacManus, a member of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with Palestine, emphasised that this announcement must be followed by “concrete actions” from the Government to hold Israel accountable and ensure full adherence to international law.

“I want to commend all of those who have campaigned for this over many decades. The recognition of Palestinian statehood by Ireland must be the first step in the Government playing a leading role internationally”. McManus continued, saying, “The Government must follow this announcement by utilising every tool at their disposal to hold Israel to account and to demand full adherence to international law”.

MacManus also pointed to the broader implications of this recognition, suggesting that it should prompt a reevaluation of support within the European Union: “This announcement also serves as an opportunity for Fine Gael MEP candidates to renounce their support for Ursula von der Leyen in her pursuit of a second term as president of the European Commission, given how her handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has severely damaged the European Union’s credibility as a partner for peace”.

Sinn Féin local election candidate in the Athlone Local Electoral Area, Sam Brooks.

CAP

Cllr Tom Crosby and his wife Pauline are main sponsors of the new digital scoreboard in St Barry’s GAA grounds in Tarmonbarry. Photo shows Cllr Tom (second from left) and Pauline (left) presenting sponsorship cheque to Marie Beirne (centre), secretary of St Barry’s GAA Club. Also in picture is the chairperson of St Barry’s, Chris Burke (second from right), and former chairperson, Gerry Farrell (right).

Cllr

Connolly pledges to address flooding and road safety concerns

Domnick Connolly, a Fine Gael candidate in the local elections in the Athlone LEA, has pledged to work closely with local residents to address issues of concern in the area.

Mr Connolly, who previously served on Roscommon County Council, says he has the experience, local knowledge and passion to deliver for constituents.

“Having served on Roscommon County Council for a long num-

ber of years, I am going before the electorate as an experienced community activist and as someone who knows the area, the people, and the issues”.

Mr Connolly said that key topics being raised with him on the doorsteps include flooding in South Roscommon – with the crisis at Lough Funshinagh being of particular concern – as well as issues to do with road safety.

The Fine Gael candidate said that

Local

election candidate James Murray

Muff crossroads is ‘a danger’ – Murray

Local election candidate James Murray is calling on Roscommon County Council to address safety issues at Muff crossroads, Castlecoote.

He says that users of this road, including pedestrians, are in danger due to poor sight-lines and the speed of traffic exiting off the Castlecoote to Creggs road.

First-time Fianna Fáil election candidate James states: “It has been brought to my attention on numerous occasions on the doorsteps over the last few months that this is a serious issue that users of this road want addressed.

“A low-cost safety scheme is required before a serious accident occurs. There have already been minor accidents and an application to the Department for funding is justifiable.

“If elected, I will be raising this matter at the first meeting of Roscommon County Council. This is a very busy junction with a lot of traffic coming from all directions. I cannot understand why these works have not been prioritised to date” concludes James.

Road funding essential for safety of all – Walsh

Critical roads funding is needed across the MidlandsNorth-West, a Fine Gael MEP has said.

MEP Maria Walsh said nationwide road maintenance is essential for the safety of all commuters and motorists across the Midlands-North-West.

“The simple truth is that current funding levels are failing to meet the demands of our national infrastructure. Local authorities across the Midlands-North-West have done their best with the resources at hand, but it’s clear that the status quo is unsustainable.

“Our local council officials and councillors are fighting a losing battle without the necessary funds to maintain roads across the Midlands-North-West. We’re trying to make do with what we’ve got, but it’s far from enough.

“Recently, my Fine Gael colleague Minister Heather Humphreys announced a record funding allocation of €40m for repairs and improvements work on non-public rural roads and laneways. Now, I am calling on Minister Eamon Ryan to step up and follow suit to take decisive action on this matter. We need him to unlock the funds necessary for the upkeep and enhancement of our local roads to ensure a safer, smoother future for Ireland’s road network,” MEP Walsh concluded.

he is in close contact with Minister of State Kieran O’Donnell and Senator Aisling Dolan on pursuing a solution to the Lough Funshinagh flooding crisis. He is also acutely aware of flooding issues in South Roscommon, including in the Clonown area.

On roads, Mr Connolly said that there are safety concerns for residents going into and exiting from the Barrymore and Moyvannion areas, as well as in the vicinity

of St Brigid’s GAA pitch and the Hodson Bay road.

“People are worried about traffic travelling too fast on the Main Road. Overtaking is also a problem. Residents say it’s extremely dangerous, not least for children attending Ballybay school. I have listened to these concerns, and if re-elected to Roscommon County Council, I will be discussing these matters with engineers as a priority. The installation of traffic

calming measures is one option that needs to be considered”.

He added the general maintenance of roads, along with verge trimming, etc. across the south Roscommon area is something that he will prioritise.

Mr Connolly thanked people for their support and courtesy on his ongoing canvass and said he looks forward to continuing to engage with the public over the coming days.

Mullooly: ‘Use EU legislation to lower VAT rate of small restaurants and cafés’

Ciaran Mullooly, Independent Ireland’s candidate for member of the European Parliament (MEP) in the Midlands-North-West constituency, has called for the urgent reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate for small, independent restaurants and cafés.

As closures of vital community businesses continue at an alarming rate of two per day across the country, Mullooly has urged the Irish Government to leverage the updated EU VAT Directive to provide immediate relief.

For nearly a year, the debate over

whether to split the VAT rate to allow the hospitality sector’s food element to return to 9% with the accommodation element remaining at 13.5% has overshadowed the critical need for action.

Mullooly has argued that a lack of basic understanding of EU VAT law is now harming the hospitality industry.

“The updated EU VAT Directive allows for Member States to apply different VAT rates to restaurant and catering services versus accommodation services, offering the flexibility needed to reintroduce a

9% VAT rate specifically for foodled businesses,” the Independent Ireland candidate said.

“The EU VAT Directive provides a clear legislative pathway for differentiating VAT rates within the hospitality sector,” he added.

“The Irish Government is in a position to lower the 9% VAT rate for restaurant and catering services while maintaining the 13.5% rate for accommodation services. This is necessary to save our struggling small businesses.

“Our hospitality sector is integral to the fabric of Irish society. By

taking advantage of the flexibility offered by the EU VAT Directive, we can ensure that our local restaurants and cafés not only survive but thrive,” Mullooly stated.

“It cannot be stressed enough that the current crisis facing our hospitality sector is not just an economic issue but also a social one.

“Our communities are being deprived of the local restaurants and cafés that serve as essential meeting places for socialising, working and celebrating significant milestones. It’s beyond time that the Irish Government takes decisive action”.

Casey: Use Defence Forces to stop illegal immigration

Peter Casey, an independent candidate in the European parliamentary elections for the Midlands-North-West, has proposed deploying the Irish Defence Forces to address what he describes as an escalating refugee crisis.

Casey cites a recent poll indicating that 74% of people believe Ireland needs a tougher approach on immigration.

Both Fine Gael as a party and Fianna Fáil candidate in Midlands-North-West, Barry Cowen, have also called for stricter enforcement of immigration laws in recent days.

“A recent poll has revealed that 74% of people believe Ireland is a soft touch on immigration

and they want a tougher approach,” Casey said. Casey argues that the Garda Síochána are unable to manage the situation alone: “It is obvious that the Garda Síochána are unable to put out this fire on their own”.

He pointed out that the Irish Defence Forces have previously assisted the Gardaí in combating crime, referencing operations in 2023 targeting organised crime in Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary: “The Garda Síochána were assisted by the Irish Defence Forces when raiding homes and making arrests as part of an investigation into organised crime in Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary, targeting

67 properties and making several arrests in 2023”.

Mr Casey has faced criticism from others running in the election for allegedly conflating illegal immigration and rising crime, having said in recent debates: “If someone broke into your home, you would not offer them a tent and suggest they set up camp in your back garden – but that is exactly what is happening here with the ongoing tent crisis on the Grand Canal”. He also calls for expedited processing of asylum applications, advocating for decisions to be made within days rather than the current months and years that the process is taking.

Domnick Connolly, a Fine Gael candidate in the local elections in the Athlone LEA

Minister Heather Humphreys symbolically turns the sod for the Monksland Public Park last Thursday. Amongst the amused public gures observing were

MEP Maria Walsh, Cllr John Naughten, Cllr Laurence Fallon, Senator Eugene Murphy, Cllr John Keogh, Senator Aisling Dolan, Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council) and Deputy Denis Naughten. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Former Taoiseach Cowen drops in to lend support to Brennan bid

Former Taoiseach Brian Cowen called in to Down The Hatch in Roscommon Town on Friday evening to wish Larry Brennan well in the forthcoming local elections.

Mr Brennan, who is co-proprietor of the popular pub with Seamus Hayden, is a Fianna Fáil candidate in the Roscommon LEA.

“As an old friend of his, I was absolutely delighted that Brian called in to wish me the best of luck. He was in great form, and chatted freely to customers about his two

main passions… politics and sport, particularly the GAA”.

During his visit, Mr Cowen endorsed Larry Brennan’s candidature: “I would encourage people to come out and support Larry in the local elections; he is a decent man who has his apprenticeship well served, and I wish him all the best on June 7th”.

Mr Cowen also called in to The Coachman’s Inn, where he met with customers and Fianna Fáil party personnel.

Chambers welcomes consideration of move to 9% VAT rate for hospitality

Senator Lisa Chambers, a Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-North-West, has welcomed the recent confirmation by Minister for Finance Michael McGrath that moving to a 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector will be considered ahead of Budget 2025.

Speaking at The Global Economic Summit in Killarney, Minister McGrath indicated that all tax heads will be reviewed in preparation for the upcoming Budget. He highlighted the need to prioritise available resources to address various economic needs

while cautioning that not all demands could be met. Nevertheless, he confirmed that the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector would be on the table for consideration.

Senator Chambers recently facilitated a business breakfast at Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, attended by Minister McGrath. At this event, hospitality businesses unanimously raised concerns about the VAT rate.

“I am delighted to hear that the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector will be considered ahead of Budget 2025, especially given how vocal business-

es were about it at the event in Castlebar,” Senator Chambers said.

“This is an essential measure for supporting our hospitality industry, which plays a crucial role in our economy, particularly in regions like the Midlands-North-West that rely heavily on tourism.

“The hospitality industry has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years. Maintaining the 9% VAT rate is vital for helping businesses stay afloat, protecting jobs, and encouraging further investment in this key sector,” she stated.

Crosby wants new disability card for equal access in EU

Roscommon county councillor Tom Crosby, right, has supported calls for a new disability card to be introduced that would ultimately ensure that those with disabilities, (including from Ireland), would have equal access to special conditions and necessary supports anywhere in the EU.

As things stand, the recognition of disability varies across all EU member states, so unfortunately people living with disabilities from Ireland who travel within the European Union cannot access the same resources they are entitled to.

“However”, stated Cllr Crosby, “a European Disability Card and European Parking card such as that mentioned would permit cardholders’ appropriate and equal access to special conditions and preferential treatments anywhere in the EU, as well as guaranteed use of parking spaces and facilities reserved for persons with disabilities in all EU countries.

“This”, he stressed, “is their absolute right and we should fight for such on their behalf,” stressing that such cards would complement – and not replace – the national disability recognition programmes.

Cllr McDermott receives warm welcome on visit to Ballagh NS

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott praised the Ballagh National School community in Kilrooskey this week, following a recent visit there, where he spoke with staff and students about the positive atmosphere at the school and the great facilities on offer.

“I called out to Ballagh National School in Kilrooskey recently”, said Cllr McDermott. “I received a warm welcome from principal Ruth O’Connor and all the staff and students. I was given the opportunity to tour the school and explore all that it has to

offer. This charming school is not just a place of learning – with small class sizes, each child receives the individual attention they deserve, fostering an environment where their unique strengths are nurtured and their voices are heard”.

Ballagh NS was recently awarded extra STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) funding from the Department of Education, which was used to purchase LEGO robotic kits and iPads.

Complimenting the facilities at the

school, Cllr McDermott said: “It was evident from my visit that the students are safe and happy. They have a sensory room where children can retreat to a calm space, devoted to relaxing and developing the senses”.

Fianna Fáil candidate Seán Moylan (Boyle Municipal District) handing in his nomination papers to Caitlin Conneely, Local Elections Returning O cer, Roscommon County Council. Also in picture (back row, l-r): Patsy Feehily, Roscommon Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil; Rita Moylan and John Murphy, Chairperson, County Roscommon Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fianna Fáil councillor Marty McDermott pictured with sta and students at Ballagh National School in Kilrooskey recently.

Former Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, dropped in to Down The Hatch Bar in Roscommon Town on Friday evening, to meet local publican Larry Brennan, a long-term party activist, and a Fianna Fáil candidate in the forthcoming Council elections in the Roscommon Municipal District. Larry is also Chairperson of the Roscommon Town Team. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured in Down The Hatch on Friday evening were Larry Brennan,

former Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Seamus Hayden and Sean Mahon.

Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured in Down The Hatch on Friday evening were (back, left to right) Adrian Leddy, Eamonn Smith, Christy Grogan and Tom Kilroe; front, left to right: Larry Brennan, former Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Michael Finneran. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Senator Lisa Chambers, a Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-North-West

MGF Electrical a winner at AEW awards

MGF Electrical Roscommon scooped the award for ‘Most Improved Branch’ for lighting recycling at Ireland’s second Association of Electrical Wholesalers (AEW) awards in Dublin recently.

Sponsored by Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland, the awards celebrated the best performers in lighting recycling across AEW’s 130 members in Ireland last year.

MGF Electrical Roscommon was recognised for its green, sustainable business practices for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in 2023.

“We are thrilled to be recognised for our commitment to recycling waste lighting from our customers,” said Eugene Fleming of MGF Electrical Roscommon.

“This award is a significant morale boost for our team and reaffirms our dedication to making a positive environmental impact, no matter how small”.

Local SME featured at Google’s You’re the Business Winners event

Peter Kilmartin, founder of the Roscommon-based video production company Spicy Dog Media, recently attended Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin, after Spicy Dog Media was selected as one of 21 SMEs to receive a customer digital support package for their businesses as part Google’s You’re The Business initiative.

You’re the Business is a digital upskill programme. It is a Google initiative developed in partnership with EI and the LEOs that delivers on-demand training online, e-learning courses, and tools and other resources to SMEs in Ireland. The winners will receive a digital support package from Google, which includes €1,000 Google ads credit, as well as one on one consultations with experts that will help them to further develop and grow their business.

For further information on the winners and the You’re The Business initiative, please visit g.co/yourethebusiness.

Ballinasloe Community Development celebrates 25th anniversary

New enterprise hub opened

Ballinasloe Area Community Development (BACD) proudly celebrated its 25th anniversary and the grand opening of the state-of-the-art Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub (BEH) on Society Street on May 23rd, 2024. The event marked a significant milestone in the community’s ongoing efforts to support local businesses and create economic activity in the area.

The Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub is a €1.6 million project made possible through the support of many stakeholders and funders.

Key contributors include the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, which granted €490,000 under the 2020 National Just Transition Fund, in addition to €250,000 from the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2022 via Galway County Council, and €35,000 from Galway Rural Development Company Ltd.

BACD also contributed over €800,000 of their own resources, backed by Ballinasloe Credit Union.

The hub is part of the Siro/Vodafone Gigabit Hub Initiative.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Hum-

phreys TD, officially opened the Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub (BEH) and addressed the large crowd in attendance. She remarked, “State-of-the-art facilities like the Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub embody the core goals of ‘Our Rural Future’.

“They help create more vibrant town centres and make our rural communities better places to live,

work, and raise a family. Remote working is key to this objective as it allows people to work within their own communities, avoiding long commutes to cities.

“I want to congratulate the entire team in Ballinasloe and thank them for collaborating with my Department to make their vision a reality”.

Seamus Duffy, Chair of BACD

CLG, acknowledged the many esteemed guests in attendance, including numerous past and present company directors, dedicated volunteers, and key stakeholders. BACD was officially formed as a registered company in 1999, when like-minded individuals and groups in the town united with the goal of revitalising the area’s economic fortunes.

Skillnet Ireland supports over 23,000 SMEs through upskilling

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD, and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, attended a gathering last week at the Absolute Hotel in Limerick, to acknowledge the commitment to upskilling and lifelong learning of small to medium-sized enterprises throughout the country.

SMEs recognise the importance of lifelong learning, with the majority having upskilled their staff within the past 12 months. However, 51% reported difficulties in recruiting staff with the necessary skillset. Cyber security, financial management, and marketing and sales were identified as the muchneeded skills for SME business growth and 33% of SMEs have highlighted that cost is a barrier to upskilling.

Each year, over 23,000 SMEs make use of the supports provided by Skillnet Ireland, through their 70 Skillnet Business Networks and nationwide initiatives to provide meaningful career paths to their employees and to help businesses to build competitiveness through skills.

A recent research report

from Skillnet Ireland revealed that 49% of small and medium-sized enterprises are confident

about the future, with almost half of them viewing their economic outlook as ‘very strong’.

Paul Healy (Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland) said, “The dynamism and innovation represented in the 23,000 companies that worked with us last year speaks to the possibilities that upskilling and talent development have for business”.

Eugene Fleming of MGF Electrical Roscommon (left) pictured receiving the ‘Most Improved Branch’ award from CEO of WEEE Ireland, Leo Donovan (right).

Pictured recently at Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin were Cera Ward (Managing Director, Large Customer Sales, Google Ireland), Peter Kilmartin (founder of Spicy Dog Media), and Enda Cannon (Local Enterprise O ce, Roscommon).

Pictured are Senator Maria Byrne, Minister Peter Burke TD (Minister For Enterprise, Trade and Employment), Paul Healy (Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland), Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD (Minister for Further and Higher Education Research Innovation and Science), and Laura O’Brien (Sales & Marketing Manager, Absolute Hotel).

Minster Heather Humphreys pictured with BACD Board members and sta celebrating BACD’s 25th anniversary and the o cial opening of Ballinasloe Enterprise Hub. Pictured (back row, left to right) are Martina Flanagan, Pearse Keller, Joe Lyons, Claire Gibbons, Brian King, Cllr Michael Connolly, Eoghan Kenny, and Kevin Broderick. Front row, left to right: Seamus Du y, Minister Heather Humphreys, and Lyn Donnelly.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

Roscommon Solstice Choir wow audience at Vienna recital

50 members and friends of Roscommon Solstice Choir recently travelled to Vienna in Austria from May 1st to 6th 2024, on the latest ‘world tour’ organised by the local choir.

The itinerary for the week included a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace (the opulent summer residence of the Habsburg rulers), a boat trip on the blue Danube with a visit to Melk Abbey included, lots of shows and visits to various attractions, and a very successful musical recital in St Stephen’s Cathedral on the Friday.

After hearing the choir practice, the local musical director moved the group from the normally-used side stage to the main altar, and from centre stage,

upwards of 200 visitors to the church from Austria, Germany, France, the US, and many other countries, listened enthusiastically to the choir perform. Many people came up afterwards to have photographs taken and to congratulate the singers on their wonderful musical harmonies.

Back home now, the choir is refreshed and ready to go again with their 2024 Summer Concert programme!

The choir will be in Abbeylara Parish Centre in Abbeylara, Co Longford, at 7.30 pm on June 9th, in St Brigid’s Church in Ardagh, Co Longford, at 8 pm on June 16th (along with guest artist Frankie McDonald), and in Our

Some

Lady of Lourdes Church in Derrane, Co Roscommon, at 8 pm on June 21st. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before each concert.

Tickets are available locally, so be sure to come along and enjoy a great night of entertainment – all for a good cause!

For videos from the

recital in St Stephen’s and for more information on the choir please visit the choir’s Facebook page (facebook.com/roscommon.solstice.choir).

Roscommon Solstice Choir members and friends pictured visiting Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, the opulent summer residence of the Habsburg rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

members of Roscommon Solstice Choir pictured in St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna after a very successful musical recital on Friday, May 3rd

One of the musicians from Music Generation Roscommon performing in concert at Kilbride Community Centre recently. Over 80 young musicians were drawn from the Boyle Music Hub, the Roscommon String Ensemble, St Comán’s Wood Primary School and Ballybay Central NS. Pic: Brian Farrell

Fionn Higgins and Ava Brown from Lecarrow performing at the recent Music Generation Roscommon concert at Kilbride Community Centre. Pic: Brian Farrell

Some of the musicians from Music Generation Roscommon performing in concert at Kilbride Community Centre recently. Over 80 young musicians were drawn from the Boyle Music Hub, the Roscommon String Ensemble, St Comán’s Wood Primary School and Ballybay Central NS. Pic: Brian Farrell

One of the musicians from Music Generation Roscommon performing in concert at Kilbride Community Centre recently. Over 80 young musicians were drawn from the Boyle Music Hub, the Roscommon String Ensemble, St Comán’s Wood Primary School and Ballybay Central NS. Pic: Brian Farrell

Performers and presenters pictured with Scoil Naisiunta Choilm Chille pupils at the launch of ‘Amuigh 24’, a one-day Irish language festival in association with Cruinniu na nÓg and Cúla4, being held on June 15th. Pic: Andrew Downes, Xposure

GOING OUT

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A dozen Roses!

Roscommon Rose of Tralee Selection is this Saturday All roads lead to the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon this June Bank Holiday weekend where the 2024 Roscommon Rose of Tralee Selection will take place on Saturday, June 1st. 12 Roses from across County Roscommon will be seeking the coveted title. Hot Press Readers Poll Radio DJ (National) Winner 2024, radio presenter Fergal D’Arcy, will be compere on the night.

Chairperson of the Roscommon Rose Centre and coordinator Yvonne Donohue said: “There is a great buzz about this year’s Roscommon Rose of Tralee Selection. I can honestly say it is a very strong competition and the judges will have their work cut out for them!

“Whichever Rose is selected will do us proud at the International Rose of Tralee Festival 2024 and will be a great ambassador for Roscommon”.

Special guest on the night will be the 2022 Roscommon Rose winner Bernie Ryan (Donnelly) who will hand over the crown to the 2024 winner.

This is a ticket-only event. To buy tickets/for further information, please visit the Roscommon Rose Facebook page or email roscommonrosecentre@roseoftralee.ie

Enya Reilly (Kilteevan)

Ellen Kelly (Kilrooskey)

Karen McManus (Croghan)

Lydia Clayton  (Athleague)

Rachel Hastings (Ballyforan)

Tara Muldowney (Castleplunkett)

Mikayla Martin  (Roscommon)

Lisa Kelly  (Athlone)

Megan Gaughan (Tulsk)

Serena MacDermott (Frenchpark)

Niamh McNamara (Castleplunkett)

Niamh Fannon (Kilteevan)

Ann O’Rourke, Geraldine O’Brien and Orla Fleming pictured at the recent Creggs RFC awards night in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Steve Fahey

Creggs senior women’s players Shannon Haugh and Sharon Donoghoe pictured at the recent Creggs RFC awards night in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Steve Fahey

Creggs senior women’s players Grace Hanley, Nadine Fitzmaurice, Jennifer Morris and Rachael McDonald pictured at the recent Creggs RFC awards night in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Steve Fahey

Senator Eugene and Rian Murphy pictured at the most recent meeting of Roscommon Races. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Races recently were Michelle Keane and Orla Cox. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Friday 31st May @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks 17 Pens on o er

Also, Dry Cows and Heifers

Friday 7th June @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers

Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Tuesday 4th June @ 5 p.m.

Please Note: Tuesday Weanling Sales will recommence in August – Until then weanlings will be sold on Friday’s in conjunction with usual sales for Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows

Lambs & Cast Ewes

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

Saturday 1st June @ 11a.m.

Machinery Auction

For Bookings or Enquiries Call Damien: 085-1861165 or John: 086-3077091

Saturday 8th June @ 12 Noon

Organic Cattle Sale

Bookings now being accepted

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Ban on below-cost purchasing needed now – IFA President

IFA President Francie Gorman is calling on Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to recognise the need for additional legislative powers for the AgriFood Regulator and the need for additional measures in the EU Unfair Trading Practices Directive (UTP) to strengthen the position of farmers in the agri-food chain.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently made comments that farmers should be given increased protection from buyers and dominant food buyers should not be permitted to purchase agrifood products below the cost of production.

Francie Gorman welcomed the recent announcement of the establishment in July of a new EU Agri-food Chain Observatory that aims to bring increased transparency on prices, structure of costs and distribution of margins in the supply chain across all EU member states.

“Our own Minister can do more immediately with our

national legislation to protect the livelihoods of farmers,” Mr Gorman said.

“Ireland is one of the only EU member states which did not add additional legislation to the EU UTP’s Directive to help stamp out practices which are putting farmers out of business, such as below-cost buying from farmers and below-cost selling by retailers,” he said.

“The dominance of big food buyers including large retailers operating in Ireland today means they have a dominant position over farmers in the food supply chain and the current legislation does not go far enough to level the playing pitch for farmers,” he added.

IFA says that the establishment of An Rialálaí Agraibhia (The Agri-Food Regulator) last December was a positive first step in addressing the imbalance of power in the food supply chain in Ireland, but that this office must be given significant powers to tackle the big food buyers and strengthen the position of farmers.

IFA calls for reduction in diesel price to be passed on

IFA Farm Business Chair Bill O’Keeffe

has said it’s vital that any fall in wholesale diesel prices is immediately passed onto the end user.

“We are entering into one of the busiest times of the year in terms of machinery work both for farmers and agri contractors.

Given how tight cashflow is on farms at the moment, it’s critical that any reductions in wholesale diesel prices are immediately

Cattle: There was a smaller entry of stock on o er at last Friday’s special sale of heifers on May 24th. Heifers fetched an average of €3.06 per kilo up to €3.98.

passed onto the end users,” he said.

The price of a barrel of Brent crude oil has fallen by almost 10% over the past month, with markets relatively stable currently.

“Farmers and contractors need all the help they can get at the moment. Given that diesel is such a large part of input costs, any reductions will have a positive impact. Any benefits need to be seen in reduced prices without delay”.

There was also a good entry of dry cows, and they made an average of €2.48 per kilo up to €3.04 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active. Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.48 per kilo up to €3.04 per kilo. Sample prices: 1X CH -930kg -€2,600 -€2.80 per kg, 1X CHX- 785kg- €2,240- €2.85 per kg, 1X LMX -715kg- €1,730- €2.42 per kg, 1X AAX -690kg -€1,970- €2.86 per kg, 1X LMX-600kg- €1,670€2.78 per kg, 1X LM- 575kg -€1,750- €3.04 per kg, and 1X LMX-540kg-€1,140- €2.11 per kg.

Heifers ranged from an average of €3.06 per kilo up to €3.98 per kilo. Sample prices: 1X CHX-720kg€2,030- €2.82 per kg, 1X CHX- 695kg- €1,980- €2.85 per kg, 1X CHX-600kg- €1,980- €3.30 per kg, 1X LMX-

Sale on 23/5: Over 500 lots presented for sale on Thursday last which included a Dispersal sale of Dairy cows. Trade and prices were on par with previous weeks with demand remaining strong with farmers, exporters and Northern demand and feeders anxious for stock. Both the bullock and heifer rings reported good clearances. The weanling rings witnessed the bulls peak at €4.55 a kilo while the heifer weanlings reached €4.70 a kilo. Dry cows topped out at €1960 while cows with calves at foot made up to €2560. Calves with reduced numbers on o er met a ne trade while the dairy sale recorded a top price of €2180 with an excellent clearance taking place.

SAMPLE PRICES

BULLOCKS: AAx 495kgs €1600 Ch 425kgs €1520 Ch 405kgs €1400 Sim 545kgs €1740 AA 505kgs €1680 AA 555kgs €1700 AA 620kgs €1760 Ch 640kgs €1750

€1590 BBx 450kgs €1480 Ch 625kgs €1960 Ch 570kgs €1860 Lm 590kgs €1770.

DRY COWS: Lmx 690kgs €1960 Ch 680kgs €1950  Lmx 670kgs €1910 Lm 665kgs €1680 Lm 555kgs €1460 Fr 630kgs €1240 Sim 515kgs €1280. Cows with calves at foot made from €1090 to €2560 for a Limousin cow and her bull calf at foot. Springers made from €1240 to €1260. Dairy cows made from €940 to €2180. CALVES: Smaller numbers presented last week with excellent demand on o er, resulting in a good clearance. RUNNERS: Lots made from €300 to €1100.

WEANLING BULLS: Ch 275kgs €1080 Ch 235kgs €1070 Lm 270kgs €1050 Lm 250kgs €980 BBx 265kgs €900 AA 280kgs €760 Ch 300kgs €1190 Ch 310kgs €1190 Ch 395kgs €1290 Lm 415kgs €1500 Lm 408kgs €1460. WEANLING HEIFERS: BBx 270kgs €1270 Shx 255kgs €1020 Ch 280kgs €910 Lmx 370kgs €1400 Lm 345kgs €1300

580kg- €1,930- €3.33 per kg, 1X SAX- 545kg- €1,890€3.47 per kg, 1X LMX- 480kg- €1,660- €3.46 per kg, 1X LMX -420kg- €4,420- €3.38 per kg, and 1X LMX -435kg -€1,530- €3.52 per kg. Weanlings

There was a smaller entry of quality weanlings on o er at our sale held on Tuesday evening, May 28th, with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.02 per kilo up to €3.97 per kilo, and heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.16 per kilo up to €4.00. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active.

Sheep

We had a smaller number of sheep on o er at our weekly sale of sheep on Wednesday, May 29th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €218 while hoggets topped out at €220. The tops for stag ewes fetched €292. The next sale of lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday, June 5th. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Spring lambs, sample

Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €3.02 per kilo up to €3.97 per kilo. Sample prices: 1X-LMX- 655 kg -€1,930 -€2.95 per kg, 1X-LMX- 615 kg- €1,840€2.99 per kg, 1X-LMX- 575 kg- €1,670 -€2.90 per kg, 1X-LMX -520 kg- €1,710- €3.29 per kg, 1X-LMX -465 kg- €1,440 -€3.10 per kg, 1X- CHX -420 kg -€1,460 -€3.48 per kg, 1X-AAX- 335 kg -€1,330 -€3.97 per kg, and 1X -CHX-330 kg-€940- €2.85 per kg. Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €3.16 per kilo up to €4.00 per kilo.

IFA President Francie Gorman

Ballydangan Bog Red Grouse project is thriving after 15 years

At a time filled with major concerns about biodiversity loss and the impacts of climate change, one project in Roscommon is an excellent example of community-based conservation.

The Ballydangan Bog Red Grouse Project, a National Lottery Good Cause, was established in 2009 after the local community became alarmed at the severe decline of ground-nesting birds in the bog where they had spent their youth.

“I’m a member of Ballydangan Game and Conservation Club”, said Pat Feehily, who manages the project on a daily basis.

“Back in 2009, Pat Dunning and I were in Ballydangan one evening, discussing the grouse that used to be there when we were young lads. We were saying it was a terrible thing to see the grouse dwindling away”.

Coincidentally, Pat Feehily, who is a Community Employment supervisor, received an email at the time from the employment and training agency FÁS (now Solas), saying they were looking for a unique project to support.

A team of like-minded local conservation enthusiasts emerged and applied for funding to develop the Red Grouse project at Ballydangan.

“We were awarded four CE scheme places,” said Pat. “So we could put four participants working on the project to help us out with the work that had to be done on it.

“One of our committee members,

Dr David Scallan, prepared a management plan, and we learned from him what had to be done to get Ballydangan in shape for sustaining grouse on it”.

The committee, comprised of members of Moore Game and Conservation Club and the local community, with additional support from local farmers, successfully approached the landowner Bord na Móna for an initial five-year lease on the 800-hectare bog. David Fallon, an ecologist working with Bord na Móna at the time, helped the group and has remained involved with them since.

“It’s been slowly gathering speed ever since”, continued Pat. “We realised that the work involved in looking after Red Grouse was also helping other ground-nesting birds. We noticed that we had two Curlews living on the site, coming in springtime

and rearing chicks, and we looked after them as well. Now, we’re up to seven breeding pairs. We also have Snipe, Lapwing, and Meadow Pipit; all the smaller birds are multiplying down there.

“It has worked very well. We’re getting results with chicks on the ground. That’s basically the pay-off for us – seeing young chicks and seeing them develop. Our grouse population is small but stable, but we’re hoping to translocate a couple of pairs of grouse from another area into Ballydangan to improve the bloodlines”.

Between nest protection, cutting heather (the mainstay of the grouse diet) to ensure its rejuvenation, providing grit stations to aid their digestion, and maintaining walkways and footbridges for visiting tours, work on the raised bog is year-round.

Supported by National Lottery Good Causes funding through the Heritage Council, the project has also developed long-standing partnerships with Moore District Community Employment Scheme, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Bord na Móna and Roscommon County Council.

“As the years progressed, we decided that education and letting people know what we were doing down here in Ballydangan would be essential to the project, so we started inviting school and college tours, and they are keeping us busy, too.

“We’re very focused on raising awareness of the project because there’s still way too many people who don’t understand the importance of what we’re doing, but we’ll get there. We have strong local support and motivation and have been successful in receiving support from several organisations/agencies. Ballydangan is now a core Irish raised bog site for breeding Curlew and Red Grouse,” says Pat.

Today the project is managed by Moore Community Council, Moore Game Club, Roscommon Regional Game Council in conjunction with Bord na Móna, the National Association of Regional Game Councils, Solas/Department of Social Protection, the Heritage Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Roscommon County Council. The project has been also supported by the Local Agenda 21 (Environmental Partnership) Grant Scheme.

Members of the Ballydangan Bog Red Grouse Project Joe Burke, ecologist David Fallon, and manager Pat Feehily, pictured with Diane Kompansky (UN Environment Programme).

Auctioneers & Estate Agents

Main Street, Ballygar. Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664

Email info@moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472 moranandco.ie

Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway.

LANDMARK 7 DAY LICENSED PREMISES, RESTAURANT & FUNCTION ROOM ‘An tobar ’

This landmark premises has a prime town centre location fronting the Main Street. It also benefits from public road access to the rear. The premises have a gross floor area of c. 500 sq. mts. (5,380 sq. ft.) and there is a large yard at the rear with a smoking area and sheds c. 144 sq. mts. and 18 sq. mts. The premises, which was purpose built in 2006, has a very attractive stone facade, a hollow core first floor and is well finished throughout. There is an inviting front bar with a woodburning stove, a front lounge, a rear lounge and restaurant area, a spacious light filled function room, a well-equipped kitchen, toilets, cold room, etc. There may be an option to purchase the adjoining private residence if required. This could also add the possibility of a B&B. This sale offers an excellent opportunity to purchase a business with unlimited potential. Ballygar is on the busy Roscommon to Galway route It has schools, shops and services. It is home to the annual Ballygar Carnival and the annual Ballygar Truckin. It is on the Ireland Way and Suck Valley walks. ‘An tobar’ is ideally located to take full advantage of all the business this generates throughout the year. Inspection is highly recommended. Viewing strictly by appointment with the sole agents. Full details from David Moran, MSCSI MRICS.

Five vacant and derelict Roscommon

properties granted

approval under URDF Call 3

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD has updated Cabinet on the third call under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF).

The third round of URDF was announced in January last year and was specifically targeted at addressing long-term vacancy and dereliction across cities and towns and at the provision of residential accommodation.

The recent update provided by Minister O’Brien shows that 1,224 vacant and derelict properties in URDF areas have been identified and approved under the scheme, and that the

estimated residential yield from these properties is 5,406 homes. In Roscommon, five vacant and derelict properties have been identified and approved, and the estimated residential yield from these properties is 55 homes.

The fund is available to all Local Authorities to cover the purchase price of properties (residential and commercial) and any minor works required to make the property more suitable for sale e.g. improving access, tidying up, opening up to facilitate inspections etc.

Acquired properties are then offered for private sale to those who in return will commit to bringing the property back into residential use. Purchasers of these properties are also able to defray the costs of returning them to use by accessing the Vacant and Derelict Property Refurbishment Grant, the SEAI energy efficiency grants or the Repair and Leasing Scheme subject to eligibility. To date, €142.5million has been allocated across all 31 Local Authorities under Call 3.

Property owners welcome proposals to abolish Rent Pressure Zones

The Irish Property Owners Association (IPOA) has welcomed the recommendations outlined in the Housing Commission’s recent report, advocating for the abolition of Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) in Ireland. The report, which critically examines the current state of Ireland’s housing market, suggests replacing the RPZ system with a more effective regulatory framework.

The RPZ system, which has now been in place for eight years, restricts rent increases to inflation or a maximum of 2 per cent, whichever is lower. Among the key recommendations in the report concerning RPZs are noting that the RPZ system is no longer

fit for purpose and has contributed to a twotier rental market, and also that the methodology used to extend RPZs to new areas is inconsistent and inequitable.

The report recommends that all policy measures and interventions should be assessed against their impact on housing supply whereby Regulatory Impact Assessments (RIAs) are performed on all such interventions. The IPOA agrees with this, as to date, there has been a negative impact of over-regulation on the supply of rental properties.

Chairperson of the IPOA, Mary Conway, stated, “We welcome the Housing Com-

mission’s recognition of the flaws in the current RPZ system and their recommendations for a more balanced approach to rent regulation.

“On the back of this Report’s recommendations on RPZs, which were first introduced as a temporary measure, we would like to see government action in motion, with the implementation of the RPZ related proposals. This should see these unnecessary rent control interventions removed.

“There is ample evidence across Europe that they simply do not work, and only serve to exacerbate an already dysfunctional property rental market”, she concluded.

sale by private treaty or auction later, a prime residential farm containing approx. 31 acres located at Ussey, Glinsk, Co Galway (F45 CC82) comprised in Folio No: GY12294 (being the Estate of the late Kathleen Quinn). Note: Residence, lands and boglands can be sold independently should market interest dictate.

Nestled in the serene countryside just 1km from Glinsk Village, this exceptional property offers a rare opportunity to embrace a quintessential rural lifestyle. Set upon a sprawling expanse of approximately 24.25 acres of prime agricultural land, coupled with an additional 6.75 acres approx. of bogland, this idyllic setting presents endless possibilities for

farming, recreation, or simply basking in the tranquillity of nature.

At the heart of this estate stands a charming twostorey detached residence boasting five bedrooms and two bathrooms, spread across 1,875 sq. ft. approx. of meticulously crafted living space.

A testament to timeless elegance, the home welcomes you with warmth and comfort at every turn.

The interior features a seamless blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, with highlights including a cosy solid-fuel stove, oil-fired central heating, and a commendable D2 BER rating.

Immaculately maintained and presented in turnkey condition, this residence offers the perfect canvas for creating cherished memories with family and friends.

Complementing the main dwelling is a versatile

three-bay hay barn, complete with a two-bay leanto, providing ample storage for agricultural equipment or livestock.

Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or an aspiring hobbyist, these outbuildings offer invaluable utility and convenience to support a variety of pursuits.

This property is available in lots, as follows:

Entire property (31 acres approx.): Includes a five-bedroomed residence, and 24.25 acres approx. of prime agricultural lands and 6.75 acres approx. of bogland.

23.25 acres approx. with outbuildings: Excludes the residence but includes outbuildings; ideal for agricultural operations or storage purposes.

Five-bedroomed residence on 1 acre approx. with storage shed: A picturesque oneacre plot featuring the five-bedroomed resi-

dence; includes convenient storage sheds. Boglands (6.75 acres): A stand-alone parcel comprising bogland. Potential for conservation or development opportunities. Also holding potential of wind turbines being developed in this said area in the future.

The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire a residential farm in this regarded farming area of Glinsk, Co Galway.

Legals: Eimear O’Callaghan Solicitor, Castlerea (094 96 20008).

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

Ussey, Glinsk, Co Galway (F45 CC82) comprised in Folio No: GY12294 (being the Estate of the late Kathleen Quinn).

Classifieds

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

ANONYMOUS:

Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor).

CHIROPRACTOR

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

● Groundworks

● Renovations

Telephone: 086 8433433

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Complete Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and ues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

Mobile Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm. Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie Kathleen’s

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone: 087 2798704

● Chimney CCTV Inspections

● Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

 NEW AND PARTWORN TYRES FOR SALE; 195/65/15 tted at €50, 205/55/16 tted at €50. Van tyres 205/65/16 tted at €65. Jeep tyres 265/65/17 tted €90. All other sizes available to order. Call for details. Phone: 083 2012390

 DOUBLE BED FOR SALE: As new. Selling cheap. Tel. 087 965 7933 or 090 66 33084.

FENCING/GATES

FENCING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

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

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

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test

Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

shaped

● Wood Chipping

● Fully Insured Contact Alan on 087 6558597 www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GRINDS/TUITION

 MATHSGRINDS:

All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible.

Call/Text/Whatsapp

Coman: 085 706 3536

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Kenneth & Annmaire

Kelly are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following:

1) Planning permission to construct rear extension, new front porch and other alterations to existing dwelling house, such as removing existing chimneys, alterations to roof and windows; 2) Planning permission to upgrade existing septic tank to a Tertiary Treatment system with percolation area; 3) Planning permission to de ne a new site boundary by installing boundary fence with hedge and all site ancillary development works at Carrownabrickna, Co Roscommon F42 HN47. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road

Roscommon, F42 C982.

Ph: 090 6634365

Mob: 085 1299470

E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie

Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

Design Consultation

Planning Applications

New Build, Extend, Renovate

Bespoke Design

Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Seamus Golden, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a new agricultural entrance on to the public road and all ancillary site development works at Chapel Road, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Jack Keegan.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Shane and Rebecca Regan intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct part single storey and part two dwelling domestic garage, waste water treatment systems and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Clooneenbaun, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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.

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

CHAZEY PROPERTIES:

We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

PLANNINGS PLANNINGS PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON

COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Patrick Noone, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for Retention of Sun Room Extension to the side of the dwelling House, Retention of Patio Doors to Rear Elevation of Dwelling house, Retention of Domestic Garage and Retention of Change to Site Boundary from that permitted under Grants of Planning PD01/1123 & PD/04/651 with associated site development works at Woodlawn, Moyoran Td, Leitrim PO, Carrick on Shannon, Co Roscommon N41 FX04.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission..

Signed: Michael Hennessy

Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd, 15A North West Business & Technology Park, Castlecarra Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim. Tel 086 1701549

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Derek & Lisa Allen, are applying for Planning Permission to construct a single storey extension to the rear of an existing dwelling, and to construct a new porch to the front with upgrade of the existing Wastewater Treatment System and all associated site development works at Coolteige Td, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile:(086) 8167365

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Solveig Kuhse,intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for Change of use of School to Residential use, demolition of store to the rear, alterations to façade of building, and to provide sewerage system and a treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works, at Derryhanee, Termonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within a period of 5 weeeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Solveig Kuhse.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Thomas O’ Dowd, intend to apply for permission for development at Kilmacroy Td., Ballyfarnon, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of 1) proposed demolition of the existing single storey detached garage and additions to the rear (North East) of the existing dwelling; 2) proposed storey and a half type extensions to the front (South West) façade and single storey extension to the rear (North East) of the existing dwelling; 3) proposed conversion of existing attic space which, combined with the proposed extensions, will accommodate 2 no. bedrooms and ancillary accommodation; 4) proposed remodelling of all facades of the existing dwelling; 5) proposed construction of new Garage and carport canopy to the rear of the dwelling; 6) proposed revisions to the front boundary wall and vehicular entrance; and 7) associated site works & services.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Enda Mc Kiernan, Mc Kiernan Architects Ltd., Unit 3 The Old Presbytery, Main St., Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim.

APPOINTMENTS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Jonathan and Catriona Quinn intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for alterations and extension to existing dwelling house at Knockcroghery, Roscommon. The proposed alterations consist of

A. Erection of two storey extension to rear of the existing house

B. Close up window openings to side elevations of existing house

C. Demolition of existing rear extension

D. Revision to existing access to site

E. Erection of new domestic store to rear of building

F. All ancillary development works.

Signed Jonathan and Catriona Quinn

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within a period of 5 weeeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Ursula & Jonathan Canavan intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of extensions & alterations to existing dwelling house, proposed domestic garage/ store, upgrading existing septic tank & soakpit to proprietary treatment system & percolation area and associated works at Castlesampson, Bealnamulla, 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 o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within a period of 5 weeeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect Trihill, Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 090 6624681 / 087 635 8949 / stephen@sbarchitect.ie

4/5 days per week

- Good computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft O ce package

- Previous accounts experience preferable (VAT and payroll experience would be an advantage)

- Ability to work on own initiative desirable

Apply with CV to: rac.job1990@gmail.com

Full Time Forecourt Attendant O ce/Accounts

WE ARE HIRING

Top Oil Roscommon is recruiting for a Part-Time Forecourt Attendant Candidates must be available to work on weekends mainly. Interested? Drop your resume to the Depot or email

Full Time Forecourt Supervisor Interested? Drop your resume to the Depot or email careers@top.ie

We look forward to hearing from you!

 TRACTOR DRIVER AVAILABLE for summer work. Tel. 086 128 5953. EXPERIENCED CARER AVAILABLE

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

THANKSGIVINGS

For evening hours and every second weekend. Ballygar/Athleague area. Reply to Box No: 3108, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

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. Many thanks. I.M.C.

3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O, most beautiful ower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. P.S.

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. Many thanks. B.F. PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST

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 glori ed for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, 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. Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. L.S.

PODIATRIST

Tullys

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon

Physical Therapy Clinic

Movement Matters

20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy

Medical Dry Needling

Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

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

● HSE Trained and Approved

● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons)

Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

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

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK • 20 years experience

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available

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

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON –MOLLOYS PHARMACY

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

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

Dylan Byrne DIP CHFP (Monday - Wednesday)

Tel: 089 2551716 or Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP (Thursday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed?

If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 66 33084

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

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

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

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

KEAVENEY

Padraic and Betty Athleague, Co. Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear parents, Betty who died on 28th May 2004 and Padraic, who died on 31st May 2004

Gone are the days we used to share but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close We miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret we who love you, will never forget.

remembered

and Evan. Masses o ered.

OWENS

Michael and Mary

St. Theresa’s Road, Lisnamult, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Michael, who died on 5th June, 2021 and Mary who died on 15th May, 2010

(3rd Anniversary)

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, there will always be a spcial place in our hearts for ye. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 8th June at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

STEPHENS

Michael (Mickie)

Church Park, Tremane, Roscommon

(2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mickie who passed away on 3rd, June 2022.

We miss you now, our hearts are sore, As time goes by we miss you more, Your loving smile, your gentle face, No one can fill your vacant place.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by the Stephens family.

Mickie’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Saturday 1st June at 10am

FALLON

Anthony Lisnasillagh, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.

In memory of a loving Dad and great friend to many who died 1st June, 2019. (5th Anniversary)

On losing a dad As time drifts on, I stop to think about it all. The absence of a dad, gone forever more. a strong warm hand, a safe secure hug. A broad wide smile, a short trip away. Those times well spent, those days never lost. I am sad that you are gone but I am glad that you were always there.

A Dad, my Dad. I am longing for you forever more.

Sadly missed by your son Michael, sisters Mary, Nancy, Monica and all extended family members.

An Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 2nd June at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

BEIRNE

Mary

CARROLL

Michael Rathcline, Lanesboro, Co. Longford (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael who passed away on 30th May 2020.

Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day. No longer in our life to share, but in our hearts he’s always there.

Always remembered by your family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Lanesboro on Sunday, 2nd June at 11am.

McDERMOTT

Billy

Clooneenbane, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Billy, a devoted husband, father and grandfather who passed away on 1st June 2019

There is a home not made by hands beyond its golden door awaits the one who’s now away. Not lost, just gone before. And in that home not made by hands the Master will prepare a place for us, and when he calls we’ll meet our dear Billy there. Rest in Peace, Billy Your kind and gentle soul has passed, but you will forever remain in the hearts and minds of your loving wife Ann, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Friday, 7th June at 7.00pm.

Farragher, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 28th of May 2019 (5th Anniversary)

It’s been the hardest thing to lose you, you meant so much to us.

But you are in our hearts and that’s where you’ll always be.

We know that God called you, but we wish you could have stayed, at least the memories we have of you, they will never fade.

We did not want to lose you, but you did not go alone, because part of us went with you when God called you home. So just remember one thing, we are not apart, you’re with us in our memories and in our broken hearts.

Sadly missed but never forgotten by husband Paddy, sons, daughters and extended familhy.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, 2nd June at 11am.

LOHAN

(Edward) Eddie

Racecourse Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Eddie, who passed away on the 6th June 2023, R.I.P. (1st Anniversary)

think of you and think of how you died.

To think you could not say goodbye before you closed your eyes. The blow was hard, the shock severe, to part with one we loved so dear. Our loss is great, we’ll not complain, but trust in God to meet again. Two tired eyes are sleeping, two willing hands are still. The one who worked so hard for us is resting at God’s will.

Fondly remembered by his wife Mary; sons Edward, Stephen, Gerard and daughter Claire; daughters-in-law Suzanne, Margaret, Michelle and son-in-law Mark; extended family and friends.

Grandad, What we’d give if we could say “Hello, Grandad” in the same old way. To hear your voice and see your smile, to sit with you and chat awhile. So, if you have a Grandad, cherish him with care. For you’ll never know the heartache, until you see his empty chair.

Lovingly remembered by all your grandchildren, Sophie, Tómas, Emily, Jessica, Roisin, Senan, Tadgh, Maeve and Amelia.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 2nd June in St. Bridget’s Church, Four-Mile-House at 11am.

www.brianmurraystone.com

GRIFFIN

Thomas (Tommie)

Clooncullane, Creggs, Co. Galway.

(5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tommie who passed away on May 30th 2019.

You were so very special and had the nicest ways, you did so much in life and never asked for praise. You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of gold. You left the sweetest memories, the world could ever hold.

Dearly loved and sadly missed by his wife Frances, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy on Saturday, June 1st at 7pm. and St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, June 9th at 10am. Masses will be broadcast on Church Radio.

Also remembered at Masses

Rian Sheridan Renvyle/Four Mile House. Rest in Peace.

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

FULLARD

Gerry Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon 20th Anniversary - 29th May

Just a prayer from those who love you, just a memory ever true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you. Always remembered by your daughter Sharon, son-in-law Eamon and your grandson, Eamonn Gerard. Masses will be o ered.

McGUIRE

Ronnie Clooneigh, Elphin (8th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 1st June, 2016

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

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Catherine, daughters, Rachel, Nicola, Rebecca, grandchildren and extended family and friends.

Always

by Richard, Rosie, Dylan, Michelle, Pauric, Darragh, Niamh, Liam, Liamog, Caoimhe

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

KELLY

Frank

Ballybride, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Frank who died on 27th May 2016

We don’t know why it happened

No reason could suffice

But those who’ve served their purpose

Are called to Paradise

To us it seems so senseless

But God, He had a plan

We’ll never understand it

For that’s the curse of man

It’s faith we must hold on to

That’s how our spirits grow And even though we miss you

We’ve got to let you go

You’ll always be here with us

No matter where we roam

So cherished and remembered

Within our hearts, you are home

You would want us to be happy

To live and laugh and love

You know we won’t forget you

You are watching from above

Proudly we shall speak your name And sweetly reminisce

Share the stories of your life

Then send you up a kiss.

Deeply missed and forever loved and remembered by his family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in Four-Mile-House Church on Friday 14th June at 7pm

DONNELLY

Teresa (Tessie)

Funshinagh, Four Roads, Roscommon. who passed away on 6th June 2023. (1st Anniversary)

The beauty of a memory is that its always there. Like a penny in your pocket, you can take it anywhere. And when your heart is heavy and your eyes are filled with tears, you can focus on a memory, and travel through the years. Your heart can visit happy times when laughter filled the air, and the presence of your loved one, will lessen your despair.

So, as you travel on in life take comfort as you go. In a lifetime of “sweet memories”, of one who loved you so. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all her family.

Tessie’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in The Church of Christ the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Friday 7th June at 7.30pm.

McCORMACK

J.J.

Cartron, Four Mile House, Roscommon Who passed away on 3rd June 2020 (4th Anniversary)

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

We do not need a special day to bring you to our minds. The days we do not think of you are very hard to find. Our thoughts are always with you, your place no-one can fill. In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

Forever loved and deeply missed by your heartbroken wife, Chris and family

J.J.’s 4th Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House on Sunday 16th June at 11am

DAVIS

John

4 Plunkett Ballygar, Co. Galway.

In loving memory of John who passed away on 4th June 2023. (1st Anniversary)

God looked around his Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful he always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, he knew you were in pain.

He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road was getting rough and the hills were hard to climb.

So, he closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace be thine” It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone.

For part of us went with you the day God called you home.

Always loved and sadly missed by his wife Peggy; sons Gerry and John; daughters Marie and Carmel; daughters-in-law Carol and Ann; sons-in-law Paul and Eoghan and missed the most by his grandchildren Shane, James, Cathal, Lauren, Rian, Niamh and baby Jack.

John’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday 1st June at 7.30pm.

FALLON

Mary

Galway Road, Roscommon Who passed away on 29th May 2020 (4th Anniversary)

Sadly, missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day, No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts, you are always there. Always remembered by your Family.

Mary’s Anniversary Mass will be o ered in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 1st June 2024 at 10.00am

CRUISE

David Knock, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon and Ballinasloe, Co. Galway (3rd Anniversary)

If we could visit Heaven, even for a day, maybe for a moment the pain would go away. We’d put our arms around you and whisper “We love you”. Living life without you is the hardest thing we do. No matter how we spend our day, no matter what we do, your memory is our keepsake, of which we’ll never part. God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts. “No longer by our side, forever in our hearts”.

Lovingly remembered by your mum Pauline, sister Evelyn and brother-in-law John.

Uncle David We think about you and we always talk about you too. We have such precious memories but we wish we still had you. Those special years will not return when we were altogether, but the memories that are in our hearts will stay with us forever.

Forever loved Evan, Kayla and Ryan. David’s 3rd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday 2nd June, at 11 am.

Submit your Classified online

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

MURPHY

Tom Sheehaun, Curraghroe, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tom who passed away on 28th May 2020

How we miss the welcome footsteps of the one we loved so dear. Often we listen for his coming

Fully sure that he is near.

Thou are gone but not forgotten

Fresh our love will ever be

For as long as there is memory We will always think of thee.

Sadly missed by Marian, Stephen and Abbey

From sincere hearts and minds, Wonderful memories you left behind Sadly missed by his brother, sister and families.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh, Co. Roscommon on Saturday 8th June 2024 at 8.00 p.m.

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

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Roscommon bidding to end long wait for home win over Mayo

All-Ireland SFC (Group 2, round 2):

Roscommon v Mayo at Dr Hyde Park on Saturday at 5 pm

 SEAMUS DUKE

For the third time this year, Roscommon face Mayo in a big game when the sides meet this Saturday. Roscommon will be hoping that it is a case of third time lucky because Kevin McStay’s men have come out on top in the two games played to date, i.e. the league fixture in Castlebar, and the Connacht semi-final in Dr Hyde Park last month. There were positive signs for Davy Burke’s men in Croke Park last Saturday. While that group B opener ended in a 12-point defeat to Dublin, the Roscommon attack looked very sharp.

Conor Cox had his best game in a Roscommon jersey, while Daire Cregg

and Diarmuid Murtagh were also very good. Ben O’Carroll got back on the pitch in Croker too (as a sub) and if he is a little sharper by now he may well start on Saturday. A fit Ben O’Carroll has a lot to offer the Roscommon team. Roscommon have problems further out the field. The midfield area struggled last Saturday. When the Dubs ran at the Roscommon defence late in the game, it totally ran away from the Connacht side.

Mayo aren’t at Dublin’s level, and are eminently beatable. They didn’t overly impress when they defeated Cavan two weeks ago and they faded out of the Connacht final against Galway. Mayo are very dependent

on Ryan O’Donoghue for their scores and attacking creativity. Roscommon will need to devise an effective plan to limit his impact. Yes, Tommy Conroy and Aidan O’Shea will be a threat, but Donoghue is the main man. In addition, the loss through injury of Paddy Durcan is huge for Mayo. Playing at Dr Hyde Park should be a major advantage to Roscommon, yet the facts are that they have not had a home win over Mayo in the championship since 2001. Surely the sight of the Mayo jersey will rouse the Roscommon players in the way it did in their win over the ‘red and green’ in Castlebar last year.

A Roscommon victory would be a huge boost to the team and supporters ahead of the Cavan game, and would leave the home side odds-on for a quarter-

final place. It would be a big lift for the county.

There were signs in Croker that Roscommon are playing with more positivity than in previous weeks and I hope that adjustment is in evidence again on Saturday. If Davy Burke’s men get ‘stuck in’ they can run Mayo all the way.

However, it is hard to see Mayo not winning this encounter. They seem to travel to Hyde Park confident that they can win. Kevin McStay and his team will be looking for a morale booster ahead of their upcoming meeting with Dublin. I am predicting a narrow Mayo win.

Prediction: Mayo.

Best wishes to Roscommon against Mayo on Saturday …

From loyal Rossie Owen McManus in Wexford Come on

Ladies face Wexford in championship

 SEAMUS DUKE

The long road to Croke Park begins in the south-east in Wexford (McCauley Park, Bellefield) for the Roscommon ladies intermediate football team on Sunday next at 2 pm.

Facing Wexford is a tough opener for Ollie Lennon’s side, but with a home game against Antrim coming up the following weekend, there is an expectation that Roscommon will make it to the intermediate quarter-finals. Roscommon have beaten both Wexford and Antrim already this year in the league, so they will be confi-

dent that they can do well in this group.

That said, Roscommon are missing a number of players for this match. Lauren Shanagher, Aisling Feely, Caoimhe Lennon, Millie Hagan and Erin Hagan are all injured. However, the good news is that Lisa O’Rourke is expected to be available for the game.

With two teams qualifying from a three-team group, it is reasonable to expect that Roscommon will be preparing for the knockout stages of this year’s championship. They should start with a win on Sunday.

Feeney pictured at the launch of the 2024 TG4 AllIreland Ladies Football Championships in Dublin on Tuesday. Roscommon face Wexford in the opening game of the Intermediate Championship this Sunday. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sports le

Roscommon ladies football captain Niamh

Roscommon’s Enda Smith in action against Dublin’s Niall Scully during their All-Ireland SFC round one match last Saturday in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Epsom Derby takes place this Sunday

Horses for Courses

There are two classics being ran in Epsom this weekend with the Oaks on Friday and the Derby on Saturday.

There are twelve declared in the Oaks on Friday with four Irish-trained fillies, three of whom head the betting.

Aidan O’Brien’s Ylang Ylang, daughter of Frankel, and Ryan Moore is the 15/8 favourite with stablemate Rubies Are Red and Wayne Lordan second favourite at 7/2 and Dermot Weld’s Ezeliya is 4/1.

Ralph Beckett has the best English hope, Cheshire Oaks winner Forest Fairy, one of four he has declared.

The other Group 1 race, The Coronation Cup, has five runners with Luxembourg the Coolmore entry, the sole Irish runner, hoping to dethrone last year’s victor, the Gosden’s Emily Upjohn.

There are 20 colts left in the Epsom Derby at the 5-day forfeit stage with one being supplemented at a cost of £75,000, Tabletalk, trained by Tom Clover.

Aidan O’Brien has a half a

by Tom Red

dozen headed by City Of Troy, who shares the market lead with another O’Brien runner, Los Angeles. He is hoping to atone for his Newmarket disappointment. O’Brien will probably run Euphoric as well and have three runners in the race.

Adrian Murray trains outsider Dallas Star for AMO Racing in Rathowen, Co Westmeath. He will be ridden by David Egan who has connections outside Roscommon Town.

This weekend’s racing Irish racing this week starts this evening (Thursday) with a national hunt card at Limerick off at 5.15 pm and a second meeting on the flat at Fairyhouse –stall for the first opening at 5.30 pm.

There are two evening meetings again tomorrow (Friday), flat racing at Downpatrick at 5.30 pm and national hunt at Tramore.

Racing on Saturday sees the second day of Tramore, a national hunt evening meeting away at 5.10 pm. On the flat there’s the first of a 3-day meet-

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

ing at Listowel. Stalls for the first open at 2.25 pm.

On Sunday, Listowel races again on the flat at 2.07 pm and national hunt racing at Kilbeggan is away at 1.45 pm.

On Bank Holiday Monday, Listowel stages a flat card at 2.20 pm and there is also flat racing at Gowran Park with first away at 2.05 pm.

Curragh review

The English trainers had some revenge on the flat for Cheltenham, winning four races including a Classic double. They had three on Saturday. Richard Hannon’s Rosallion got up under Sean Levey in the 2,000 Guineas to beat his stablemate Haatem under Jamie Spencer by a neck.

Spencer got compensation earlier as Charles Hills’ Mitbaaty won the Group 2 Grenland Stakes and William Haggas’s Candleford won the Dubai Orby Stakes with Ryan Moore aboard.

Moore had a treble, winning the first and last on Aidan O’Brien’s Henri Matisse and Jan Brueghel. Adrian Murray and David Egan won the Group 3 Marble Hill Stakes with Arizona Blaze for AMO Racing.

The 1000 Guineas on Sunday was won by Karl Burke with the favourite Fallen Angel ridden by Daniel Tudhope.

The Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup was won by White Birch from the John Joseph Murphy stable with Colin Keane in the plate from the favourite Auguste Rodin.

Racing news

Horse Racing Ireland has announced that the Gowran Park meeting, lost on May 22nd, has been rescheduled for Monday, June 17th with an afternoon start

against an evening National Hunt meet in Kilbeggan.

Competition Corner

Winners of the tickets to Kilbeggan on Sunday are Cian Healy, Fuerty, John Egan, Ballinlough and Brenda Clogher, Ballinasloe.

This week we have tickets for Roscommon on the 10th of June.

To be in with a chance of winning, please tell us who won the Irish 2000 Guineas last weekend?

We also have tickets for Kilbeggan on the 17th of June and

we want to know in what county is Kilbeggan Racecourse? Answers as usual please on a postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@gmail.com by 5 pm on Wednesday, 6th of June for Roscommon and the 13th for Kilbeggan. Don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Short putts Derry bidding to get campaign back on track

The Carrick-on-Shannon Club Classic 2024 takes place over this June Bank Holiday weekend, May 31st to June 3rd It is an important fundraiser to help maintain and invest in the club. Entry for a four-person team is €200 (this includes a meal).

Congratulations to the Carrick-on-Shannon mixed team who played and defeated Enniscrone 3-1 in the Golf Ireland Mixed Fourball competition last weekend.

Well done to Teresa Duignan who won the Divino Restaurant-sponsored ladies competition with 37 pts last weekend. The club had a very successful senior outing to Castlerea Golf Club on May 20th. The winning team members were John Moffat, Sean Martin and Sean Gilmartin, with 42 pts. Last Thursday’s overall winner of the club’s senior competition was Chris Lowe with 37 pts.

The club’s second registration and information evening for parents of junior golfers will be held this evening, Thursday, the 30th of May (7 pm) in the clubhouse. Junior lessons start on Monday, 10th of June.

The club would like to congratulate Damien Kiloran from Ballyfarnon on winning last week’s 50/50 Draw (€520).

CASTLEREA

Well done to all who took part in the O’Conor Don Cup competition recently. Congratulations to winner Michael Moran (with a score of 66 net). Sean Kilkenny came second with 67 net.

ROSCOMMON

Hard luck to the Roscommon Golf Club Barton Shield team who were beaten by Ballinasloe in the Connacht final on the first play-off hole recently.

Best of luck to our Ladies Senior Foursomes team whose Connacht final will be concluded over this bank holiday weekend.

Congratulations to Sinead Benedetti who won the recent Satara Boutique-sponsored ladies 18-hole club competition with a score of 34 pts. Well done also to Pauline Leonard who won the 9-hole competition with 19 pts.

Championship Watch

SEAMUS DUKE

Football takes centre stage this weekend, and the Roscommon v Mayo game is previewed elsewhere in our sports section this week. In Roscommon’s group, Cavan entertain Dublin at Kingspan Breffni on Saturday night at 7 pm. There will be a big crowd for the visit of the All-Ireland champions, but only one outcome is realistic, i.e. a Dublin win.

The latest team to face Jimmy McGuinness’ Donegal are Cork as the Tir Conaill men make the long trip to Páirc Uí Rinn. Cork will provide a test, but it would be a surprise if Donegal were not to win with a bit to spare.

DARTS

There is a very interesting clash in prospect in Mullingar, with visitors Galway taking on Westmeath. Padraic Joyce’s men were impressive against Derry. It will be interesting to see if Damien Comer plays in this game. Westmeath are not a bad side and they should put up a good show, but Galway will surely win it. The big game of the weekend will be Derry v Armagh in Celtic Park. Derry need a win. They were poor and undisciplined against Galway and Armagh will test them. I am tempted to go for a draw but Derry will probably edge it. Tyrone host Clare in Omagh and they should record their first win without too much difficulty.

Meath are at home to Kerry in Navan. In times gone by this would have been a very

attractive fixture but Meath’s fortunes have dipped in recent years. They were very poor against Louth and will not get too much sympathy from Kerry in this match. Monaghan and Louth meet in Clones and the Leinster side will go there with great confidence after last weekend. They could well turn over the home team.

There is a full round of matches in the Tailteann Cup this weekend, while in hurling, the finals of the Lory Meagher, Nicky Rackard and Christy Ring cups will all take place in Croke Park on Sunday.

Finally, the All-Ireland U-20 hurling final will be contested on Saturday night between Offaly and Tipperary at UMPC Nowlan Park in Kilkenny.

Fleming wins Kelly Cup

The Kelly Cup, the final pre-summer darts tournament within the county, took place on Saturday, May 11th in The Hollywood Bar. There were a number of competitions on the day, with Breanne Concannon taking the title for Best Lady, while Hannah Victory won Best Youth. In all, 32 players competed, with the men’s event attracting the highest entry. The final of this competition saw two of the county’s best players, David Concannon and Sean Fleming, take to the oche.

It was a tight match from start to finish, won by Sean Fleming on a scoreline of 5-3.

A raffle was also held, with €635 raised in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

Top professionals visit: Roscommon will see the cream of the crop of professional dart players visit the county over the coming weeks.

On Sunday, June 2nd, Scott Williams will be in The Sportsman’s, Strokestown (starting at 8 pm). To book a place to play Scott or for further information contact 071

9633518. Friday, June 7th sees two-time world champion Gary Anderson take to the stage in The Coachman’s, Roscommon Town. Contact 087 2063386 for further details.

Date for the diary: A meeting for all associated with Roscommon Darts to plan for the year ahead takes place on Friday, June 14th at 8.30 pm in Hannon’s Hotel. Please support. This meeting could shape a lot going forward in the county and all voices must be heard.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

(News from local golf clubs)

The Martin Kelly Cup is presented to winner Sean Fleming by tournament organiser Ciaran Hickey.

Ylang Ylang, daughter of Frankel, wins the Fillies Mile at Newmarket.

Historic cup win for CP Ajax

Castleplunkett side CP Ajax won the Joe’s Bar-sponsored Roscommon & District League Challenge Cup for the first time in their long history last Sunday. In a thrilling and very sporting game at the League Grounds in Lecarrow, they beat Cloonfad United on a 2-1 scoreline.

Both teams created many chances in a game that could have been won by either side. At the end of the day the game was decided by the smallest of margins with some good saves by the CP Ajax goalkeeper Killian

Higgins and a little bit of bad luck for the Cloonfad side.

Conor Flynn gave Cloonfad United a 1-0 half-time lead with a stunning strike just before the break. The Castleplunkett side levelled the game early in the second half through Pedro Jailes and the same player added a second a few minutes later.

Cloonfad United went all out for an equaliser but it became clear as the game went on that it was going to be CP Ajax’s day and they held out to win the Challenge Cup for the first

time. Congratulations to all at CP Ajax!

Congratulations are also extended to Dunmore Town who earlier in the day at the same venue beat Cam Celtic/Dysart to win the Challenge Shield.

In the RDFL Premier Division, Castlerea Celtic ended their relegation worries when they beat Shiven Rovers 3-1 at Lecarrow.

Shiven will now play Division One runners-up Skyvalley Rovers with a place in next season’s Premier Division at stake.

In the Masters League, Glen

Celtic made it two wins from two when they beat CP Ajax 1-0 and Ballinasloe Town and Roscommon Town drew 1-1 at Ballinasloe.

Soccer Fixtures

Saturday, June 1st

RDFL Premier Division Relegation Play-o Shiven Rovers v Skyvalley Rovers. 6 pm

RDFL Masters League Ballinasloe Town v St John’s Athletic. 7 pm

On the Pitch

On Monday evening, our Town 1 U-14 boys team lost in Newbridge. Town 2 beat St John’s. Samuel Godfrey (3), Dominic Jacob (2), Harry Trimble and Rian Towey all netted for Town.

Despite scoring four away from home through Cian O’Connor, Kaua Alves de Carvalho (2) and Ben McHugh MacRory, Town 3 lost in Moore.

There was a boys’ U-12 double header in Lisnamult on Tuesday as Town 1 and 2 hosted Kilkerrin and Strokestown respectively.

On Wednesday evening, our girls U-12s side welcomed Cloonfad while our U-16s girls played Shiven Rovers.

This Thursday evening, our boys U-16 teams play their second league match. Town 1 are at home to Ballinagare, while Town 2 make the short

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

trip out to Ballymoe. Training and matches continue for our boys and girls U-7s, U-9s and U-11s teams this weekend. Enjoy the beautiful game!

Sponsor Spotlight: Warm n’Cosy Homes

Warm n’Cosy Homes sponsor the Roscommon Town U-16 girls team.

A local company serving the county and beyond, Warm n’Cosy Homes provide a wide range of insulation options suitable for your home. Support them

as they support us. Call Robert on 086 6119709 or email warmncosyhomes@ gmail.com

Wise Words

“Success is not the absence of failure, it’s persistence through failure” – Aisha Tyler

Club Store

Shop now on roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie. Adidas and KCS clothing ranges in stock. Wear the Town. Play

In association with the

for the Town. Support the Town.

Player Profile

Name: Jack Kirwan Team: U-12s

Position: Right midfield

Three words that describe me: Friendly, Caring, Hard-working

Skill Strength: Crossing Skill Weakness: Headers

Favourite Team: Manchester United

Favourite Player: Alejandro Garnacho

Favourite Irish Player: Evan Ferguson

Best stadium in the World: Old Trafford

Messi or Ronaldo or Neither: Messi

PlayStation or Xbox or Neither: PlayStation

Favourite Film: Bend it like Beckham

Favourite Food: Pizza

Favourite Song: Glory Glory Man United

Favourite Book: Harry Potter & The Philosophers Stone

What makes me happy: Playing soccer

People I admire the most: My Dad

Why I play soccer: I love to play it

Hopes for the season: To win the league with my team

Our Community. Our Children. Our Club.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Pictured are the Roscommon Town Girls U-9 Europa League team.

Pictured are the Roscommon Town Boys U-11 Champions League 1 team.

CP Ajax player Pedro Jailes celebrates one of his two goals in Sunday’s RDFL Challenge Cup nal against Cloonfad United in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

RDFL Challenge Cup winners CP Ajax pictured with the cup after defeating Cloonfad 2-1 in the nal last Sunday in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Cappamore calling for camogie team

Roscommon are in a tough group in this year’s junior camogie championship, as they are alongside Cavan, Mayo, Laois and their opponents this Saturday, Limerick.

Roscommon travel to Cappamore for a clash with the Treaty county at 2 pm on Saturday. The Roscommon team is managed again by Eoin Hardiman and Cian Ryan. It’s been nine weeks since their last league game. A number of minor players from last year’s successful team have been added to the panel this year and training has been progressing well, according to all reports.

Roscommon defeated Limerick in the quarter-finals last year, and despite being without the prolific Shauna Fallon this weekend, the Rossies should be able to start their campaign with a win. GAA results

Gaels’ joy with junior hurling title win

The Roscommon Gaels junior hurlers became county champions for the first time since 2013 last weekend, defeating Athleague in the Junior Hurling Championship final by 1-19 to 0-8 in Lisnamult. The game, which was played in less than favourable conditions, was dominated by Roscommon Gaels

from the start, with some wonderful scores and solid defending.

Roscommon Gaels’ Finn Killion received the Man of the Match award, sponsored by The Peppermill Roscommon, for his stand-out performance during the game.

Windmill Wheelers to host major cycling event

The Elphin-based Windmill Wheelers Cycling Club is hosting a major cycling event on Sunday, June 9th

The Windmill Classic is part of the Connacht Cycling Leisure series for 2024 and is one of five events across Connacht this year. It is expected to attract cyclists from all over the province and beyond.

The Windmill Wheelers Cycling Club has grown rapidly over the past two years and currently has over 55 members. Members are from all over north Roscommon and south Leitrim.

The club is open to new members (over 18) at all times and they cater for all abilities with four different group cycles each week.

The Windmill Classic will have two routes, 100km

and 50km, with the 100km route beginning at 9 am while the 50km route begins at 9.15 am. You can register for the event on Eventmaster.ie and the first 60 eventmaster registrations will get a complimentary 750ml ‘Windmill Classic’ cycling bottle. Registration is €20 for club members and €25 for non-club members. Commenting on the event, Jim Keane, Club Chairperson said: “Windmill Wheelers are delighted to host the Windmill Classic as part of the Connacht Leisure Cycling series for 2024. We will be welcoming a large number of cyclists to Elphin on June 9th”. For more information, please contact Damien Devaney (Club Treasurer) on 087 2354374.

CAP

Members of the Windmill Wheelers Cycling Club pictured promoting the upcoming Windmill Classic cycling event in Elphin.

Members of the Roscommon Gaels Junior hurling squad, management and fans pictured with the cup after winning the Junior Hurling Championship final last Sunday.

Andy Hession and his son DJ pictured with the cup after Roscommon Gaels defeated Athleague in the Junior Hurling Championship final last Sunday.

Roscommon Gaels’ Finn Killion receiving his Player of the Match award from Ava Mulry of the Peppermill Restaurant (sponsors).

Roscommon Gaels selector Sean Mulry and player Diarmuid Mulry pictured with family members and the cup after Roscommon Gaels defeated Athleague in the Junior Hurling Championship final last Sunday.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

Tough weekend for Roscommon GAA teams

Last weekend was a tough one for prominent Roscommon GAA teams. In Friday’s Connacht Minor Football final at Dr Hyde Park, Mayo proved just a little too strong for Roscommon, but it was a close and competitive encounter. While they narrowly missed out on provincial honours, our lads are still alive and well in the championship. James Duignan’s team will play Kerry in an All-Ireland quarter-final next month.

Meanwhile, there was disappointment too for Roscommon in the All-Ireland U-20 Hurling B final, played at Croke Park on Saturday. Down took the honours, on a scoreline of 0-20 to 0-11.

Congratulations to the Roscommon players and management on a very fine campaign, and here’s to brighter days in the big games they are sure to feature in in the future.

Also on Saturday, our senior footballers lost their opening game in the All-Ireland Round Robin series. Dublin finished with an unanswered 2-4 for a fully deserved win, although the 12-point margin was far from a fair reflection on how well Roscommon had competed for most of the game. See also Paul Healy’s Week (page 6), and reports and photos from Croke Park elsewhere in this sports section.

‘All Saints Day’ as Leeds falter

What’s another year, as the song says… On returning from the Community Games finals in Gormanston on Sunday evening, I watched full recorded coverage of the Championship play-off final between Leeds United and Southampton, which had been played earlier in the day. The prize awaiting my team (Leeds) and ‘The Saints’ was a place in the Premier League next season – that and an estimated £140 million windfall.

Although the game had ended a couple of hours earlier, I was unaware of my team’s fate, having very impressively avoided updates all afternoon. With my mobile on silent, I left

myself at the mercy of the Gods, and Crysencio Summerville (Leeds’ best player).

Southampton took an early lead. Leeds huffed and puffed, but struggled to find a consistent rhythm, and scoring chances were minimal. Late on in the game, Daniel James’ thunderous volley rebounded off the crossbar. It wasn’t to be for Leeds on the day, and it is Southampton who join the already-promoted Leicester and Ipswich in the Premier League next season.

I was philosophical about Leeds’ latest playoff woes. The team faltered in recent weeks, and didn’t produce their best on Sunday. The Championship is a gripping division, and I expect Leeds to be front-runners for promotion (hopefully automatic) again next season. What’s another year…

(Sheep) Shearer and

the mild savaging of the dignified Ten Hag!

Manchester United surprised most observers (including their own supporters) by winning the FA Cup final. It was an excellent, disciplined and tactically astute performance by them, the win all the more satisfying because it came at the expense of Manchester City, the dominant club in English football in recent seasons.

There has been much comment about how Erik ten Hag was treated by Alan Shearer, when the triumphant manager joined the BBC crew for a post-game interview.

Shearer, a great ex-player who is now a veteran Match of the Day pundit, praised United’s performance in the cup final, but put it to their manager that his players hadn’t shown such commitment – including last-ditch tackling – in the Premier League, therefore finishing a very disappointing eighth. Many viewers felt it was unfair question-

ing of an under-pressure manager who had just led his team to an unlikely cup success.

Whatever one’s views on the BBC line of questioning (and the ‘debate’ is continuing on social media), I found it ironic that the usually very bland Shearer is now being cast as some sort of brave and bold interviewer. While Shearer has improved as a pundit over the years, his style remains largely bland and boring, his delivery mostly monotone, like a bingo caller who regrets not retiring a decade or more ago.

Erik ten Hag, a dignified figure in the game, has expressed annoyance, but he shouldn’t lose too much sleep over ‘Shearergate’. I was reminded of one-time UK Labour Party Deputy Leader Denis Healey’s slightly cruel but funny quip many years ago, when he said that being challenged by the Conservatives’ Geoffrey Howe was like being savaged by a dead sheep!

‘Be kind’ – a grieving family’s simple message

Grayson Murray wasn’t a household name.

Although I’m a fairly keen golf fan – and Sky Sports’ coverage of the PGA Tour is extremely comprehensive – I had never heard of the 30-year-old American, who turned professional in 2015.

I now know that he was an accomplished and relatively successful professional golfer, who rose to number 46 in the world rankings this year, and was a two-time winner on the incredibly competitive PGA Tour.

Last Thursday, Grayson teed off in the Charles Schwab Cup Challenge. On Friday, he withdrew from the competition, having played sixteen holes of the second round.

The following day, his shock death was an-

nounced, stunning the golfing world and devastating his family.

Poignantly, one of Grayson’s two Tour wins came as recently as earlier this year, when he won the Sony Open in Hawaii. That success hinted, outwardly at least, at a welcome upturn in the fortunes of a young man who had spoken in the recent past of his mental health struggles, and a battle with alcohol addiction.

Last Sunday, Grayson’s family issued a statement, in which they confirmed that their son and brother died by suicide. They spoke of how much he was loved and thanked people around the world for their support.

Grayson Murray’s tragic passing at such a young age, and with the potential for such a bright future ahead of him, is a stark reminder of how anyone can suffer from mental healthrelated issues. For the professional golf fraternity, it is a reminder too that elite sport – perhaps particularly when the participants compete on an individual (rather than team) basis – can be a very lonely environment.

In elite golf, despair and self-doubt comfortably co-exist with fulfilment, joy and the acclaim of the public. Murray’s death is a reminder that, both in the public arena and away from it, world class sportspeople are not immune from life’s pressures, or its temptations.

In their statement, his family asked that people might honour Grayson Murray by being kind to one another. I think that was a very apt sentiment. In all walks of life, people suffer, often in silence, or in the shadows.

It is important to reach out to people, to be there for them, to listen, and to give time. Important, as this young golf star’s grieving family say, to quite simply be kind to people. It is a sentiment we should all note in an era when anger and unkindness are too prevalent.

May Grayson Murray rest in peace.

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Two teams representing County Roscommon and Connacht in the National Community Games finals in Gormanston, Co Meath last Sunday came away with silver medals. The Roscommon/

Kilteevan Community Games U-16 chess team, who won the Connacht final in April, were sil-

ver medallists in the national final on Sunday. They defeated Cavan in the semi-final before losing to

Cork in the final. Congratulations to the team and to their coach, Alastair Kerr. Congratulations

also to the Drum/Clonown U-13 chess team who won the silver medal in their national final.

Pictured is the Roscommon/Kilteevan Community Games U-16 chess team, who won the silver medal in the national nal in Gormanston last Sunday.

Pictured is the Drum/Clonown U-13 chess team who won the silver medal in their national nal on Sunday last. Roscommon claims two silver medals in national chess finals

Cloonfad United fans swarm the pitch after Conor Flynn puts them 1-0 ahead against CP Ajax during Sunday’s RDFL Challenge Cup nal in Lecarrow. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Still in the game!

Minors edged out in Connacht final, but All-Ireland quarter-final awaits

Electric Ireland

Connacht MFC Final

Mayo 0-14

Roscommon 0-10

< ELLIOT GREALY

Mayo were crowned Connacht Minor Football champions for the third year in a row after a hard-earned victory over a promising Roscommon team at Dr Hyde Park last Friday.

The home side could have spoilt Mayo’s party, producing a valiant performance which saw them well in the game heading into the final quarter. However, a few Roscommon mistakes proved costly. The home side coughed up possession to the visitors too often late on, and the issuing of a black card to their goalkeeper, Patrick Gaynor, added to their woes. Although Mayo didn’t fully capitalise on these errors, kicking some poor wides late on, they held James Duignan’s men at bay and were deserving of their four-point victory.

After Mayo full-forward Oisin Deane opened the scoring, Roscommon responded with a fine Dean Casey point. The home side kicked direct ball into the full-forward line throughout the first half, which resulted in points for John Curran and Alan Conroy. Mayo kicked some fine scores of their own through Conor Moriarty and sharpshooter Kobe McDonald. The perfect underfoot conditions allowed McDonald to thrive from placed balls as he finished with five converted frees and 0-6 in total. Mayo looked to be heading into the interval one point to the good, but after an excellent turnover further back, Stephen Tighe produced a stunning effort with the outside of his right boot to leave the scores at 0-5 apiece at halftime.

The second half started with a flurry of scores for both sides. John Curran fired over the opening score of the half after a brilliant catch by Shay McGuinness inside. Oisin Deane and Evan Walsh tagged on scores for the visitors, but a classy point from Dean Casey meant there was nothing to separate the sides 38 minutes in. Then errors began to creep into Roscommon’s play, and Mayo took advantage. Scores from

Deane and half-time substitute Andrew Quinn followed a superb 55m free from McDonald.

McDonald was well marshalled throughout the game by Roscommon captain Keelan Kelly, but Mayo’s ace was flawless from placed balls, and he struck another monster free from 50m on 54 mins.

The decisive moment in the contest was when Roscommon goalkeeper Patrick Gaynor received a black card, dragging substitute Joe Forry to the ground after losing possession. Instead of bringing on substitute goalkeeper Cillian Hus-

sey, it was decided that wing-forward Alan Conroy should go in goal. Mayo squandered a couple of late chances but frees from McDonald and Deane kept the Rossies at bay. Mayo now go on to play Cork, and Roscommon will lock horns with Munster Champions Kerry, with both games to be played on the weekend of the 8th/9th June. There were plenty of positives to take from the Roscommon performance, most notably their policy of kicking direct ball into the full-forward line. James Duignan’s team showcased a great brand of heads-up football and

their pace in transition was brilliant to watch. They will certainly go into the Kerry game with confidence, looking to build on a solid provincial campaign.

Mayo: Nathan Roddy; Conor Coghill, Tom Hession, Daithí Butler; David Hurley, Mark Noonan, Mark Sheeran; Josh Moyles, Owen Loughney; Harry McHale, Kobe McDonald (0-6, 5f), Dylan Flynn; Evan Walsh (02, 1f), Oisín Deane (0-3), Conor Moriarty (0-1). Subs: Andrew Quinn (0-1) for Moriarty (half-time), Joe Forry (0-1) for McHale (43m).

Roscommon: Patrick Gaynor; Liam

Duignan: ‘I’m so proud of these players… and it’s not the end!’

< SEAMUS DUKE

Despite Friday evening’s defeat in the Connacht Minor Football final it was a very proud Roscommon manager James Duignan that spoke to the local media after the four-point loss to Mayo.

“I’m incredibly proud of my lads. They absolutely emptied themselves out there for the Roscommon jersey, for themselves and for their families. Mayo got that fourpoint cushion, we got it back to three or

two, and they were able to kick on again with a few points. But I’m just immensely proud of my lads. It’s not the end, we’ve an All-Ireland quarter-final in two weeks’ time and we’re looking forward to that”.

The team manager reflected on a couple of missed goal chances last Friday, before turning his attention to the approaching clash against Kerry in the All-Ireland quarter-final.

“We created two goal chances, one in the first half and one in the second half. We’re

playing Kerry now and we’ll have to get goals. Some days they go in for you, some days they don’t.

“We played Kerry down in Limerick before the championship, and it was a right good battle. We’ll lick our wounds for a couple of days now and we’ll get ready to meet the next challenge head on. These lads are very resilient. I’m just so proud of them. Unfortunately, we didn’t get over the line but we’re looking forward to meeting Kerry”.

Finneran, Gordon Casey, Colin Murray; Eoin Collins, Keelan Kelly, Declan Kennedy; Darragh Devaney, Cathal Enright; Joe McKeon, Dara Curran (0-4, 2f), Alan Conroy (0-1); Stephen Tighe (0-1), Shay McGuinness, Dean Casey (0-1). Subs: Seán McDonnell for McKeon (41m), Martin Connaughton for Kennedy (48m), Samuel Malec-Hannon for Tighe (57m), Michael Brooks for Gordon Casey (58m), Jeffrey Oates for Dean Casey (59m).

Referee: Christopher Ryan (Galway). Player of the Match:David Hurley (Mayo)

Roscommon minor manager James Duignan consoles Eoin Collins after last Friday’s defeat to Mayo in the Connacht Minor Football final at Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon’s Cathal Enright gets away from Mayo captain Tom Hession during last Friday’s Connacht Minor Football final in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

DOWN, NOT OUT… young Roscommon hurlers can have bright future after latest final heartbreak

All-Ireland U-20 B Hurling final Down 0-20 Roscommon 0-11

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon senior and U-20 hurling manager Kevin Sammon says he will reflect on his future with the county over the summer. He was speaking following Roscommon’s defeat in last Saturday’s All-Ireland U-20 B hurling final, in which Down prevailed by a nine-point margin.

There was no suggestion that Sammon isn’t keen to continue to steer the future of Roscommon hurling, merely a standard ‘not-committal’ response from a manager in the moments after defeat in a big game. Sammon told People Sport that he will reflect with his management colleagues over the summer.

As to the progress of the U-20s, the manager was upbeat. Speaking of how Saturday’s final evolved, he said: “After about 40 minutes, Down took over. They were stronger than us on the day. We’ve no qualms, the way it finished. Down were the better team on the day.

“We see it (the U-20 B grade) as a kind of development squad for the seniors. Getting to the final of it is great. We got games during the year to help lads and bring lads on. Underage is great and getting to finals is great but obviously there’s disappointment among all of us because once you get there you want to win. A lot of these lads will go on and play senior for their county in the years to come”.

After 36 minutes of Saturday’s final at Croke Park, the sides were level – with Roscommon very much in the hunt. However, from there to the end of the game it was one-way traffic as a rampant Down side got a grip on proceedings and won comfortably.

On a breezy evening at headquarters, the sides were evenly matched throughout the opening half. James Dillon and Tommy Fleming were very effective in defence for the Rossies, while at midfield Keelan Ryan and Liam Og Coyle were performing well and getting a lot of possession.

Up front, Sean Canning was excellent. He had the beating of his man every time and was setting up attacks and also scoring well. In addition, Paddy Fallon was accurate from the placed ball. The sides were level five times in that opening period and it looked like the outcome would be on a knife-edge right to the finish.

Ben Christie, Shea Pucci and Finn Turpin were playing well for Down, but there was virtually nothing between the teams in that opening half, Down going in at the break 0-8 to 0-7 ahead.

Three Paddy Fallon frees for Roscommon and points from Michael Dorrian and Finn Turpin for Down saw the sides level again by the 36th minute, at 0-10 apiece. Thereafter, Down took over in the middle of the park and they never looked back after that. Roscommon faded badly and were never really a threat for the remainder of the game.

Down outscored Roscommon by 0-10 to 0-1 from that point to the end as they swept to an impressive victory. Indeed they struck the crossbar twice while in on goal, and Roscommon can certainly have no complaints over the outcome.

There are a number of impressive young hurlers on the Roscommon team, players who should easily make the step up to senior level. Paddy Fallon and James Dillon are already there, while Micheal Hussey, Liam Og Coyle, Sean Canning, Ryan Conlon and Conor Morris also look like great prospects.

After an impressive campaign, Roscommon have once again found a team too good for them in this division. Losing a third successful All-Ireland final at this grade is a bitter pill to swallow, but the expectation is that a number of these young players will become established Roscommon seniors in the future.

Teams & scorers

Down: Pearce Smyth (0-1, free); Leigh Morgan, Ben Taggart, Patrick McGarry; Donal Magee, Shea Pucci, Deaglán Mallon; Seán McCarthy (0-2), Odhran Birt (01); Finn Tupin (0-3), Tiernan Connolly, Calum O’Neill; Ben Christie (0-6, 5 frees), Michael Dorrian (0-4), Noah Rogers (0-3). Subs: Rory McCamphill for O’Neill (20), Tiernan Kelly for Connolly (41), Conor Leneghan for McCarthy (54), Adam Rogan for Rogers (61), Cormac Blaney for Birt (62).

Roscommon: Jack Ryan; Jimmy Hoey, James Dillon, Oisin Flynn; Rory Coyle (0-1), Tommy Fleming (0-1), Micheal Hussey; Keelan Ryan, Liam Og Coyle; Paddy Fallon (0-5, all frees), Sean Canning (0-3), Ryan Conlon (0-1); Rory Lyons, Conor Morris, Brian Mannion. Subs: Tommy Morris for Conlon (39), James Connolly for Lyons (44), Gavin Meares for Mannion (53), DJ Hession for Flynn (54), Aidan Hoare for R Coyle (60+1).

Referee: Padraig Dunne (Laois).

The Roscommon U-20 hurlers pictured ahead of their All-Ireland U-20 B Hurling Final against Down in Croke Park last Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon U-20 hurling captain James Dillon

pictured after Roscommon’s nine-point defeat to Down in last Saturday’s AllIreland U-20 B Hurling Final in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Burke looks to positives as mistakes punished by ‘ruthless’ Dublin

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Davy Burke rued a few mistakes made by his side in the second half but in general he was full of praise for the effort his players had put in.

“We are disappointed with the result. It probably didn’t feel like it was a 12-point game but it’s the very, very top level of football here. That Dublin team is absolutely ruthless and if you make a couple of mistakes they go down the field and punish you. Look at the pace in that second goal. It’s hard to live with that. If you give the ball away cheaply they’ll do that to you. Ultimately, a couple of our own mistakes cost us”.

The manager bristled at any suggestion that the team had suffered a second-half fade-out again.

“On 61 minutes, we had a mark with the score at 0-16 to 0-13. A mark about 40 yards out, that against the breeze we probably should have went short (with) and work(ed) a score, and then we’re back to 0-16 to 0-14 and we wouldn’t be hearing too much from you about

the second half, so I wouldn’t agree with you there at all now”.

Referring to the paltry crowd and poor atmosphere, Burke expressed the view that the game should not have been played in Croke Park.

“Coming out here… why is this place open today, like? It doesn’t need to be open today. The crowd could have been packed into Tullamore, packed into Parnell Park, packed in anywhere, you know that kind of way? There would have been a better atmosphere”.

Turning to this Saturday’s game against Mayo, Burke said he will not need to motivate any Roscommon players.

“If any Roscommon man can’t get up to play Mayo in the Hyde sure there’s no point in me travelling down the road” he said, adding that he won’t have to tell the Roscommon players how to play Mayo in the Hyde.

“If we had won today, Mayo were still coming. If we lost today, Mayo were still coming, and if we drew today, Mayo were still coming. Just like next Saturday and Cavan are still coming too” he concluded.

Roscommon manager Davy Burke pictured on the sideline during last Saturday’s All-Ireland SFC round one match against Dublin in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Late goals crush Roscommon

All-Ireland SFC Group B

Dublin 2-19 Roscommon 0-13

< SEAMUS DUKE

The record books will show that AllIreland champions Dublin won this championship game by 12 points, but the final margin was somewhat harsh on Roscommon. Looking at the scoring during the game, Davy Burke’s side were still well in contention with 10 minutes to go, down only three points (0-16 to 0-13). However, a late Roscommon fade-out, which coincided with Dublin really flexing their muscles for the first time in the game, saw the All-Ireland champions march to a resounding victory with two late goals and a flurry of excellent scores.

The game, played in front of a paltry crowd, was largely devoid of atmosphere. The GAA has a huge problem on its hands with this championship format as the public are voting with their feet, but that’s a discussion for another forum. As it was, Roscommon were very competitive for three-quarters of the game but in truth there was a sense of inevitability about it all in the end.

There were plus points from a Roscommon perspective. Conor Cox was outstanding, turning in his best performance in a Roscommon jersey. Not far behind him were Diarmuid Murtagh and Daire Cregg, and indeed the three members of the Roscommon full-forward line accounted for the side’s entire total on the day.

Niall Higgins, Robbie Dolan and Davy Murray were excellent in defence. The small Roscommon crowd present saw a decent effort from the team overall, but in truth they never looked like they were going to win this fixture. Once Brian Fenton and Con O’Callaghan came into the game late on there was only going to be one winner. Another key factor was the outstanding impact made by a number of the Dublin subs as the game went on.

Dublin scored the opening three points of the game, but once Cox, Cregg and Murtagh got going, the Dubs were very much kept within Roscommon’s sights. Cox kicked three great points (one a free) in the opening half, while Diarmuid Murtagh kicked four more (two frees) and Cregg kicked three. The Dublin defence was always under pressure when Roscommon were attacking. One wide in the entire half was an indication of just how efficient Roscommon were in that period.

In the 30th minute, Eoin McCormack was given a black card for a foul on Eoin Murchan. Still, Roscommon did well after that, scoring the final two points of the half (both from Diarmuid Murtagh). At half-time it was Dublin 0-10 Roscommon 0-9.

By the 48th minute there was only

one in it (Dublin 0-13 Roscommon 0-12) but after that point the All-Ireland champions outscored Roscommon by 2-6 to 0-1.

Dublin brought on subs Sean Bugler, Jack McCaffrey and Colm Basquel in the second half, and they all made a significant contribution, with Roscommon now struggling. With his team leading by 0-17 to 0-13, Basquel scored a great team goal after Fenton had handled the ball twice in the build-up. Then, in the final minute of normal time, another incisive Dubs’ move was finished to the net by Con O’Callaghan.

It was a little unfair on Roscommon to have been beaten by 12 points, but the strength of the Dublin panel was there for all to see and their bench had a very positive impact on their performance. Roscommon won’t have long to dwell

on this result as they now face a massive match against Mayo in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday. The biggest job the Roscommon management will have this week is to get the players to forget about this defeat and to look ahead to this weekend’s crucial clash. Not an easy task, but a win on Saturday would give the whole camp a massive boost ahead of their final group game against Cavan.

On this occasion Roscommon were second best but they were competitive for three-quarters of the game and it was refreshing to see the attack showing what they could do. Indeed Ben O’Carroll made a welcome return, albeit as a sub. It was certainly an improved performance from Roscommon. If they can play like this against Mayo they will have every chance of winning.

As for Dublin… they are still the team

to beat, make no mistake about that.

Teams & scorers

Dublin: Stephen Cluxton; Sean MacMahon, Eoin Murchan, Michael Fitzsimons; Brian Howard, Cian Murphy (0-2), John Small (0-1); Brian Fenton (0-2), Tom Lahiff (0-1); Ross McGarry (0-2), Cormac Costello (0-2, 2 frees), Ciaran Kilkenny; Paul Mannion (0-2), Con O’Callaghan (14), Niall Scully (0-2). Subs: Sean Bugler (0-1) for Mannion (45), Jack McCaffrey for Lahiff (48), Colm Basquel (1-0) for Scully (52), Paddy Small for McGarry (52), Theo Clancy for Murphy (63).

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Robbie Dolan, Brian Stack, David Murray; Niall Higgins, Niall Daly, Eoin McCormack; Enda Smith, Tadhg O’Rourke; Dylan Ruane, Donie Smith, Ciaran Lennon; Diarmuid Murtagh (0-5, 2 frees), Daire Cregg

(0-4, 1 free), Conor Cox (0-4, 1 free). Subs: Shane Cunnane for O’Rourke (43), Ultan Harney for Donie Smith (43), Ruaidhri Fallon for Daly (50), Ben O’Carroll for Ruane (55), Keith Doyle for Cox (70). Referee: Derek O’Mahoney (Tipperary).

Stat Attack

Wides: Dublin 5 (2, first half); Roscommon 4 (1, first half) Red cards: 0 Black cards: Dublin 0; Roscommon 1 (Eoin McCormack, 30) Yellow cards: Dublin 0; Roscommon 2 (Diarmuid Murtagh, Keith Doyle)

Attendance: Approx. 14,500 Man of the Match: Brian Fenton (Dublin)

Roscommon’s Eoin McCormack in action during the All-Ireland SFC round one match against Dublin last Saturday in Croke Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell