Are you aware of any tax reliefs or otherwise available to students or parents of students who are facing high student fees and accommodation costs? Any guidance would be appreciated.
In Ireland, you can get 20% tax relief on student tuition fees. It does not cover registration fees, administration charges or exam fees. The course must be an approved Undergraduate or Postgraduate course. The first €3,000 (for full-time) or €1,500 (for part-time) of fees does not qualify each year. Example: If your tuition fees are €5,000, minus the first €3,000 = €2,000. You get 20% of that back = €400 tax relief.
Other reliefs are also available.
The Rent Tax Credit of 20% of rent paid, up to the limit of €1,000 per individual or €2,000 per jointly assessed couple is available for 2024 and 2025. Parents who pay rent on behalf of students are also entitled to claim this benefit.
The SUSI maintenance grant is a meanstested grant, with two types of student grants for undergraduate study available through SUSI. These are maintenance grants and fee grants. The maintenance grant contributes towards a student’s living costs while they are at college. This can include college fees and support with accommodation and other costs. The fee grant will cover all or part of the student contribution and costs of essential field trips.
The Student Accommodation Assistance Fund, created for Traveller and Roma students as well as care-experienced young people can contribute up to €6,000 per academic year towards accommodation costs. Applications should be made through the student’s institution.
The Student Assistance Fund (SAF) offers broader support for students experiencing financial hardship. It can cover rent, bills, food, and essential living costs. This fund is administered directly by higher education institutions, and students must apply through their access or support offices.
In certain circumstances, students on social welfare may qualify for additional supports. The Back to Education Allowance (BTEA), and in some cases Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) or rent supplement, can be available. These supports usually apply to those combining welfare entitlements with education.
WATCHING People
With PAUL HEALY
CYCLING ACCIDENT
First I contacted JD, then Jim…
If you were involved in a cycling accident contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors
Oh, what a week!
HOW SO?
I’ve become embroiled in the presidential election!
You’re not still on about that, are you?
Huh?
About running? You’re not serious about trying to get a nomination to contest the presidential election? I mean, I know you have your contacts and so on…
Yes, I do have my contacts! Michael ‘Fitz’ has been known to take my advice! Remember that time I had a long conversation with him at a public meeting?
Well, I remember that time he very patiently listened to you at a public meeting! Anyways, what’s up?
I’ll tell you what’s up! I’ve become embroiled in this election! That’s what’s up!
I feel like Brian Lenihan in 1990 all over again!
(They pause to gasp as Armenia go 2-0 up against Ireland in a World Cup qualifier that’s slowly turning into Nightmare on Street-in-Armenia)
Will I tell you?
I expect you will!
First, I made contact with JD.
JD Vance? Wow, you aim big! What, an email asking the US vice-president for advice?
No, not that JD! Our own JD!
Our JD?
Yes… Joanna Donnelly. The former weather presenter!
Oh, didn’t she hastily withdraw from the
Endangered Species
Thebarstoolboyos
presidential election the other day? Er… yes. And it may or may not have had something to do with my intervention.
Huh?
I sent Joanna an email… offering to assist with her campaign. I had all these wonderful weather puns lined up. Super soundbites! I offered to meet her to discuss a launch. Unfortunately, she went on the Tonight Show with Kieran
Cuddihy before I got talking to her. That was the end of Joanna’s campaign! Oh dear! Are you sure she received your email?
Well I can’t be sure, but Joanna’s gone now anyway!
So…
So, next I called Jim Gavin. Or rather, I called a mutual friend.
Seriously?
Yes! You know I wrote to him several times over the GAA rule changes?
So you said…
So the other day, I contacted a friend of Jim’s, just offering to head up his team. AND?
I haven’t heard anything back yet, but it’s early days!
So, is that the extent of your presidential election ups and downs?
Well, I still haven’t ruled out seeking a nomination myself! I’ve left messages with a number of Roscommon councillors.
What are they saying?
Er… they’ve to get back to me!
(They pause to try to come to terms with Ireland’s defeat to Armenia)
Hey my friend, what about this World Cup disaster for the Irish team?
Well, I did say at the time that Hallgrimsson wasn’t the right man for the job.
An unknown manager?
Yeah, but he’s also a dentist… I knew from day one we might find this… a little bit painful!
Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie
It’s been a GOOD week for… ☺
Rory McIllroy, who won the 2025 Amgen Irish Open at the K Club over the weekend, defeating Joakim Lagergren in a dramatic play-off
Music fans, as the MTV VMAs returned on Sunday with record-breaking viewership and headline-grabbing performances
Jim Gavin, who won the Fianna Fáil nomination to become that party’s candidate in the forthcoming presidential election
It’s been a BAD week for…
The Republic of Ireland soccer team, with their World Cup qualifying hopes effectively already dashed, following disappointing results against Hungary (a draw) and Armenia (a shock defeat on Tuesday night)
This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.
PIC OF THE WEEK: A happy junior infant pictured on her first day at school at Cloontuskert NS recently.
Photo: Michael Finan
Roscommon councillors to hear from Áras hopefuls
< EMMETT CORCORAN
Roscommon County Council will host a special meeting on Monday next, September 15th, at 11 am to hear from Independent presidential hopefuls seeking support for their nomination. Each candidate will be given ten minutes – five for a presentation and five for questions – to make their case to elected members. Under the Constitution, a presidential candidate must be nominated by either 20 Oireachtas members or four local authorities.
15 prospective candidates have so far expressed interest in addressing the Roscommon meeting. Roscommon County Council has 18 elected members, and the controlling group of the council consists of five Fianna Fáil councillors, four Fine Gael councillors and three Independent councillors. Fine Gael councillors nationwide have been directed not to support Independent nominations, with Heather Humphreys already selected as the party’s candidate. Fianna Fáil has yet to issue guidance; however, if the votes in other councils
are indicative of a national trend, it is not likely that Fianna Fáil councillors will facilitate an independent candidacy.
In Mayo, a motion from Aontú councillor Deirdre Lawless to nominate barrister Maria Steen was defeated by 19 votes to five. Meanwhile, Kerry became the first council to host formal pitches, with 14 speakers appearing. A vote on nominations there has been deferred until next week.
The presidential election takes place on Friday, October 24th.
3 pm on Saturday, September 13th. Mass will be celebrated in Ardcarne Graveyard at 12 noon on Sunday, September 14th. A collection will be taken up at Ardcarne Graveyard on the day, with proceeds going towards the cost of lighting the church and graveyard. Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Pilgrimage to Knock
A Pilgrimage to Knock, organised by the Legion of Mary, is set to take place on Tuesday, October 7th 2025. If you are interested in travelling, please contact 087 2445753 or 086 3861954.
Preparing for Life Programme
The Preparing for Life Home Visiting Programme, based in Ballaghaderreen and surrounding areas, is offering free support to pregnant women and families until their children are school-ready. This free, evidence-based, voluntary programme provides developmental items at various stages and focuses on empowering women, children, and families by building on their strengths, and recognising them as experts of their own lives. For more information, contact the Family Resource Centre.
Meeting on Rahara Graveyard upkeep
A meeting will be held in Rahara School at 8 pm on Monday, September 15th, to discuss future maintenance/development works in Rahara graveyard. All are welcome.
Roscommon Girl Guides
The Roscommon unit of Irish Girl Guides will hold its registration evening on Wednesday, September 17th from 7 pm to 8 pm in the Girl Guide Cottage, Mote Park. Registration is for Ladybirds aged 5-7, Brownies aged 7-10, Guides aged 10-14, Senior Branch aged 14-30, Leaders 18 +. All welcome.
Roscommon Drama Group members presented a cheque to committee members of Western Alzheimers (Roscommon Region) earlier this week. The monies were the proceeds from recent charity Drama Group events. Pictured on the occasion of the presentation were (front row, left to right): Bernie Maher, Chairperson, Roscommon Drama Group; Sarah McGahon, Margaret Madden, Mairead F Nally, Chairperson, Western Alzheimers voluntary committee (Roscommon Region). (Back row, left to right): Joe Brady, Joanne Hone, Sylvia Kilcline, Kieran Madden.
THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT
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OUR WEIGHT LOSS PLAN INCLUDES:
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WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.
WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY
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WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY
At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302
Four arrested over ‘violent disorder’ in park
Gardaí investigating an incident of violent disorder in Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon, on July 27th 2025 have arrested four people.
Two residential properties in Co Longford were searched on Monday, September 8th, 2025, and four people were arrested (a male in his 30s, a female in her 20s and two juveniles). They were detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at stations in the Garda North Western Region.
Gardaí have appealed to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward, including anyone with camera footage from the Loughnaneane Park area on July 27th 2025.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Roscommon Garda Station on 090 6638300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. Investigations are ongoing.
Legal wrangle stalls hopes for Rooskey hotel revival
A long-running legal dispute over the ownership of the former Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey has cast further uncertainty over efforts to bring the property back into use. At a recent Leitrim County council meeting, Cllr Sean McGowan called for the building to be added to the derelict sites register, saying the hotel was once “the focal point of Rooskey” but had now become “an eyesore”, noting it has been fenced off and idle for 15 years. He described the site as being “caught in a legal
quagmire” and claimed its owner, James Kiernan, “never had any intention of running it as a hotel.”
A report from Leitrim County Council confirmed the existence of a High Court case over the title, with a Lis Pendens filed since 2017 and a full hearing now set for January. Senior planner Bernard Greene explained that “Mr Kiernan did not enter into a contract with the Department of Justice; he had a lease signed with another entity and then (that entity) entered
into another contract – a 12-month contract with the Department of Justice and that’s the reason why the sale of the property fell through. Those three parties are now embroiled in a legal dispute in the High Court since 2017. The most recent case was submitted in 2019 and is due for hearing in the High Court in January.”
Mr Greene said the structure itself did not currently meet the criteria for dereliction, but that the council would continue to engage with the registered owner.
Discover psychology – a journey of mind and meaning
Have you ever wondered about why we think and behave the way we do? About how understanding psychology can illuminate our lives? Well, Vita House Roscommon’s Level 7 Certificate in Psychology offers much more than an academic qualification –it is an invitation to reflect, question, and explore the human experience in a safe and supportive learning environment.
This course nurtures both the study of psychological theory and the deep-
ly personal exploration of ideas that shape how we see ourselves and the world. For many, it becomes more than education – it’s a transformative journey into self-awareness and understanding.
The course will begin in October and will take place from 7.30 pm to 10 pm on Monday evenings, with an additional five in-person Saturday workshops also taking place. The course totals 20 credits, which may be used towards degree programmes.
Open to adults aged 21 and older. Whether your goal is to pursue further studies or to enrich your personal growth, this course offers a space where learning and reflection meet. Vita House Roscommon works hard to create a trusted, open environment, where you can engage with both the science of psychology and the questions that matter most to you. For more information or to request an application form, call 090 6625898. Limited places are still available.
Race-goers enjoying a recent meeting of Roscommon Races. Photo: Colin Gillen, Framelight Studio Productions
FRIDAY
What might have been Ah well… at least if Bertie Ahern, Joanna Donnelly, Michael Flatley, Tony Holohan and Sean Kelly ever find themselves stuck in a lift (together) they’ll have something to talk about.
SATURDAY
Back to ‘The Skeff’
Over 30 years ago, ‘The Skeff’ reigned supreme in Galway. It probably still does! It’s certainly still buzzing, judging by the crowd that was there today when we called in for a bite to eat. But while ‘The Skeff’ is no doubt still a thriving, landmark premises, it’s obvious that many more equally fashionable and attractive bars have emerged in Galway over the decades… in keeping with the City of the Tribes’ inexorable evolution into a much-loved cultural and social location.
Prominently located on Eyre Square, ‘The Skeff’ – or The Skeffington Arms Hotel – was our ‘go to’ place when we made annual visits to the Galway Races back in the 1990s. In those days, we were drawn in by the music, the buzz, the convivial chatter… today, over 30 years on, I thought the early evening live music was just a touch too loud, and the relentless clamour of voices just a touch off-putting! Oh well. Actually, it was grand once we got seated, and the food in the famous ‘Skeff’ was very nice. When we were leaving – it was only 7 pm – the live band were in full flow, the atmosphere building. We’ve long loved Galway… this beautiful city that has such a rich culture and fascinating history, and which is synonymous with music, the arts, and a vibrant social scene.
SATURDAY
World Cup woes (1)
Misery as the Republic of Ireland go 2-0 behind against Hungary in our World Cup qualifier this evening (I recorded the game and watched it back, unaware of the outcome). To the credit of the players, we eventually fight back and earn a 2-2 draw (see also ‘Tuesday’).
PAUL HEALY’S WEEK
A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie
SATURDAY/SUNDAY
Bob and me
It’s true that we rarely remember our dreams. Sometimes we forget them in their entirety, even as we desperately try to salvage something from them within the first minute or so of waking up. Sometimes we’ll remember segments of our dream(s), very occasionally we might have a vivid memory. Mine seem to have become stranger ever since Covid, or maybe it’s just a reflection on my not being a great sleeper. A latest odd one came overnight, when I spent time in the company of Bob Geldof (in my dream). Yes, just me and Bob. When I awoke, my (clear) recollection was of being in awe of him at the beginning, but as the dream progressed we were chatting away quite comfortably, Bob being Bob – tall, confident, dashing in his unkempt way, restless. Still, we were hitting it off. I was just about to ask him if he’d seen the recent Live Aid (40th anniversary) documentary, but thankfully I woke up just before posing such an obvious question. There wasn’t a word about the speculation around him running for the presidency (well, not that I can remember!).
SUNDAY
Rory’s story
On a day trip to Dublin (our youngest daughter returning to college), we stopped off for what was a fine lunch in The Gregory Inn in Enfield. Later, returning home, I followed the golf on radio and X/Twitter (I wasn’t driving).
Once Rory McIlroy sunk putts of 38 and 42 foot on two early holes, I was confident he would bridge an overnight 4-shot deficit and win The Irish Open. As we were passing a turn-off for the K Club (where the tournament was taking place), it was getting very exciting, McIlroy requiring an eagle on the 18th to force a play-off against Joakim Lagergren, who had stormed into the lead with a stunning finish. McIlroy may be infuriatingly inconsistent, but he’s box office because of his star quality, a genius for conjuring up magical shots being a big part of the attraction. It was no major surprise when he sunk another monster putt, secured the play-off, and went on to win. Brilliant!
MONDAY
Bob and me
Not a single word from the great Bob
Geldof since… but then I suppose he, er, doesn’t really like Mondays.
TUESDAY
Surely not?
There are unconfirmed reports that a man in South Roscommon succeeded in cutting his grass today without having to (a) almost tear his hair out due to intermittent showers; (b) turn the lawnmower upside down several times to remove ‘clamped’ grass; (c) swear blind that he is purchasing a ‘robot’ lawnmower before next spring. (As I say, these reports are unconfirmed, with serious doubts being cast on any suggestion that one can successfully mow a lawn at present).
TUESDAY
World Cup woes (2)
Misery as the Republic of Ireland go 2-0 behind against Armenia in our World Cup qualifier this evening (I recorded the game and watched it back, unaware of the outcome). Evan Ferguson got us back into it, but we lost 2-1 (to the 105th ranked team in the world). Afterwards, I tuned in to see if RTE’s
veteran reporter Tony O’Donoghue would launch into another of his attention-seeking, combative interviews. He did, Irish manager Heimir Hallgrimsson getting the same treatment so many of his predecessors have received from O’Donoghue. Hallgrimsson is almost certainly out of his depth, and there’s nothing much to be said in his defence following this four-day debacle. But O’Donoghue’s interviewing approach can be unnecessarily provocative, rude too.
By the end of an awkward exchange, Hallgrimsson looked at his inquisitor with a mixture of resignation and disdain. It doesn’t look as if the Hallgrimsson era is going to end in glory (by the way, he appears to be an absolute gentleman). I suspect the habitually inept FAI is already thinking ‘Who’s next?’ I’m sure Tony is!
WEDNESDAY
Micheál & Jim
If Taoiseach Micheál Martin was hoping to give the impression that there’s chemistry between himself and Jim Gavin, he got off to a bad start yesterday.
Gavin defeated Billy Kelleher (unconvincingly) to secure the Fianna Fáil nomination to contest the presidential election. Within minutes, the new candidate was paraded in front of the media. Gavin was doing fine until the Taoiseach became decidedly nervous about the questions being fired at his candidate. At one point, Gavin seemed startled by Martin’s muttering in the background. The Taoiseach also signalled with his hand for a journalist to ease up on the questioning. It was a strange episode. Micheál Martin is surely going to have to trust his chosen candidate to face the media without ‘having his hand held’.
Meanwhile, Gavin, Heather Humphreys (Fine Gael) and Catherine Connolly (Independent) can start dusting their wellies down in preparation for attending the farming sector’s Electric Picnic… the upcoming National Ploughing Championships.
Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.
Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified
Frenchpark 15th to 21st September 2025
Road Reference Townland Closure duration Section of Closure Proposed Diversion R361 Frenchpark to Castlerea
Length of closure 400m. Closure starting 800m southwest from Frenchpark Crossroads, and finishing 1200m from Frenchpark Crossroads
From Frenchpark, head west on the N5, turning off for Ballaghaderreen on the old Dublin Road, L1244. In Ballaghaderreen, head southbound on the R293 for 3.3km, to turn left and head southeast on the R325 as far as junction with the R361
Reason for Closures: : To facilitate N5 Road Project
Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project
Mark Keaveney Director of Services
Mark Keaveney
Director of Services
Economic, Planning and Physical Development
Economic, Planning and Physical Development
Junior infants pictured recently on their first day at school at Gaelscoil de hÍde, Roscommon. Photos: Michael Finan
H
H
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Junior infants pictured recently on their first day at school at Cloontuskert NS. Photos: Michael Finan
Liam Dunne (18) remembered for his kindness, humour and love of sport
The people of Ballyleague and Roscommon Town, his former classmates and sporting colleagues came together over recent days to mourn the untimely passing of a popular young man whose sudden death has left his family and the wider community devastated.
Liam Dunne, from Ballyleague and formerly of Antogher Road, Roscommon Town, is being remembered as a kind, joyful and deeply loved young man.
Liam, who was just 18 years of age, had recently qualified as a Football Association of Ireland (FAI) referee and had secured his first-choice college offer to study electrical
engineering at the University of Limerick. A gifted footballer, he was actively involved with Roscommon Gaels GAA Club and Roscommon Town FC and was known for his commitment, team spirit and quiet leadership.
CBS Roscommon, where he had completed his Leaving Cert this summer, described Liam as “a vibrant presence who brought warmth and joy to our school community.”
In a statement, the school said that he “embodied the values that CBS Roscommon strives to instil – respect, compassion and a zest for life.”
His sister Clara, speaking on behalf of
157th Strokestown Show this Saturday
The 157th Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show takes place this Saturday (September 13th) on the grounds of Strokestown Park House, with organisers expecting over 5,000 visitors.
One of the country’s leading agricultural events, this year’s show features a prize fund of more than €80,000 across cattle, equine and other classes. Highlights include the Irish Angus All-Ireland Finals, with €15,000 in prizes, and sev-
eral other All-Ireland championship events. Alongside livestock competitions, attractions will include a 23-class dog show, sheep section, artisan produce displays, and the return of the popular food fair ‘Flavours from the Heart of Ireland’, with cookery demonstrations by celebrity chef Shane Smith.
Commercial exhibits, amusements for children, and a wide range of family entertainment will also feature.
Thanks are extended all
the family during Liam’s funeral Mass last Saturday, recalled her brother’s “contagious laughter” and “beautiful blue eyes that could light up a room.” She spoke movingly of his love for the pitch and the friendships he built through sport, saying: “The people he shared it with meant the world to him.”
Roscommon Town FC posted that words could not express the shock and sadness felt among their members, describing Liam as “a mannerly and genuine young man.” St Faithleach’s GAA and Roscommon Gaels also paid tribute, along with CBS Roscommon and many others from
across the sporting and local community. Liam’s parents, Roisín and Gary, were praised by Clara for their unwavering devotion. “They went down every single possible avenue looking for answers to Liam’s condition,” she said, adding that their care and love had been “unmatched.”
Liam is mourned by his parents, Roisín and Gary, his twin brother Rory, his sister Clara, extended family, and many friends. He was laid to rest in St Coman’s Cemetery on Saturday. He will be remembered not just for his achievements, but for his spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to those who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Victory.
Successful Age Friendly Walkability Audit
An Age Friendly Walkability Audit took place at Roscommon Hospital on August 28th 2025. It began with a briefing session facilitated by Declan Gaffney, Age Friendly Ireland’s Technical Advisor. There were 28 participants on the day who took on two specific walking routes. The Age Friendly Hospital Steering Committee sought to involve people with a mixture of abilities, with a focus on identifying barriers at the hospital for older adults, people with disabilities and those with sensory or mobility challenges.
Following the walk, participants gathered for a debrief session where feedback was shared and discussed. The feedback and pictures will now be compiled into a formal report as Roscommon Hospital moves forward in its quest for Age Friendly accreditation.
The Age Friendly Hospital Steering Committee extends sincere thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to this meaningful initiative.
Further information on the Age Friendly Programme in Roscommon can be obtained from agefriendly@roscommoncoco.ie or by calling 087 1508511.
The late Liam Dunne. May he rest in peace.
who supported the Martin Kelly Memorial Darts competition, which was held recently in The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon. Pictured presenting €750 to the CEO of the Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation Martina Jennings (second left), are Ciaràn Hickey, Barbara Victory, Marie Victory, and Hannah
Pictured are participants at Roscommon Hospital’s Age Friendly Walkability Audit (l to r): Mary Guihen, Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Christine Rohan, Roscommon Hospital, Margaret Mulligan, Roscommon OPC, Paddy Joe Burke, Age Friendly Ambassador, Sheila Coyle, Age Friendly Programme Manager, and Linda Devine, Roscommon LEADER Partnership.
Roscommon man’s hike for Gaza
On Saturday, September 27th, Roscommon man John Hunt – along with Frank Barry and Paddy Flahive – will be taking on the Caher Valley Loop Walk from Fanore for the ‘Hike for Gaza’ charity challenge. Everyone is welcome to join on the day. This fundraiser is to raise money for families in Gaza, where over half a million people are facing catastrophic hunger, and access to even basic drinking water has almost vanished. By supporting, you’ll be helping Concern World-
wide deliver life-saving aid – including clean water, food, and essential supplies – to communities who need it most.
Please consider sponsoring today and stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza. Together, we can help save lives. Any donations, big or small, are welcome for this worthy cause on fundraise.concern.net/t/hikeforgaza.
Invitation to Public Consultation Meetings on New National Volunteer Strategy 2026–2030
The National Volunteering Strategy 2021-2025 is coming to an end this year and the Programme for Government, Securing Ireland’s Future, includes a commitment to publish a successor to the National Volunteering Strategy. On behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Roscommon Volunteer Centre is organising a consultation process over the next few weeks.
All are welcome to attend, whether you are an active volunteer, inactive volunteer, part of a community group, or have an idea for a community project that could be developed with volunteer support. The spirit of the Meitheal is still a vital thread in the fabric of Roscommon life and we would love to hear your thoughts on how to protect and sustain this.
Roscommon Volunteer Centre is holding three open meetings in the locations below;
Venue: Gleesons, Roscommon town
Date: Tuesday 16th September
7:00 p.m. (tea, coffee, and scones served on arrival).
Venue: Athlone Springs Hotel, Monksland
Date: Monday 22nd September
7:00 p.m. (tea, coffee, and scones served on arrival).
Venue: Elphin Day Care Centre
Date; Wednesday 01st October
7:00 p.m. (tea, coffee, and scones served on arrival).
These events will provide an open forum for discussion, ensuring that the voices of local people and community organisations in Roscommon are heard as part of the groundwork for this new strategy. Contributions from participants will help guide the development of a framework that supports, strengthens, and celebrates volunteering nationwide.
For further information or to confirm your attendance, please contact: info@volunteerroscommon.ie Call: 089-219-9930 or book on Eventbrite.ie/roscommon-volunteer-centre
Pictured are John Hunt, Frank Barry, and Paddy Flahive.
FRANK BRANDON
FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...
Pay, perks, and perils of power
Our man Frank on the pros and cons to being a politician, Rory McIllroy’s performance in the Irish Open, the rising prices in the hospitality sector, and more!
It’s Sunday afternoon as I write, and not for the first time I am wondering why anyone would willingly enter the world of politics.
Now I know that our TDs and ministers are very well paid, with TDs now on a salary of almost €117,000 along with lots of different expenses, junior ministers getting almost €46,000 each year on top of all that, and ministers getting almost €100,000 on top of the salary for a TD, along with a multitude of additional expenses. So by any standards, our public representatives get extremely well looked after.
And yet, is it actually worth it? Apart from the constant requests for help with medical card applications, fuel allowances, pension applications, and all the many other social welfare benefits, our elected public representatives seem to be fair game for all types of abuse, especially online abuse, and every member of the person’s family can be targeted.
During last year’s local elections, there were 36 reported incidents of abuse – between both physical and online threats – made against candidates, and onethird of all those who stood for election said they were fearful for their own safety.
On today’s Sunday World, we are told about a Longford man who received a five-month suspended sentence for sending a string of messages threatening Fine Gael TD Micheal Carrigy, his wife, children, and even the family home. A few months later, the same man got another three-month suspended sentence for threats he made against Government Chief Whip, Mary Butler.
As we now hear of different threats being made against Tánaiste Simon Harris and his family, surely the time has come for much more stringent measures to be taken against all of these people and to put the message out there that such behaviour will not be tolerated. Suspended sentences do not send out the right signals, particularly in cases where disgusting and disturbing threats are made against women and children.
In Simon Harris’s case, a woman in her 30s was arrested after threatening to kidnap his children, but she is back on the streets while a file is sent to the DPP. The chances are that even if she is prosecuted, she will get a suspended sentence, which is no punishment at all. And so, even though I know the office of the President is supposed to be non-political, as the race heats up it’s fair to say that every skeleton in everyone’s closet will come out. I cannot understand why anyone would put themselves out there, while knowing full well that they are fair game for whatever dirt that can be dug up.
On second thoughts, maybe the salary of €330,000, free accommodation in the Áras, plus free admission to all big matches in GAA, rugby, soccer, and other sports, among many other perks, would make it worthwhile! I wonder am I too late to put my name into the hat?
Talking of names in the hat, though some high profile wannabee presidents have seen sense and pulled out of the race, I have just watched Conor McGregor’s video requesting our support in helping to get him on the ballot paper. The truth is that if I didn’t know the type of individual that he is, I might have been impressed by all he said, but that is not the case. According to a poll today, only 2% of voters (which seems a bit high to me) would want his name to come before us.
Let’s hope our councils, who have the power to decide who can go forward, have enough cop-on to keep him where he is; the thought of him swanning around Áras an Uachtaráin is enough to make me sick!
the dearest was The G Hotel at €495 with breakfast included. If you went out a bit to the Glenlo Abbey Hotel, it was €569, also including breakfast, and all the rest that I came across were between three and four hundred euro a night.
Glory for Rory
I suppose we will never agree on who is Ireland’s greatest ever sportsperson, but when it comes to the question of who has given us more heartbreak, more joy, more drama, and more excitement, there really can be only one winner – Rory McIlroy.
I am writing this on Sunday evening, after watching him yet again pull off a truly remarkable win, this time in the Irish Open. The amazing putt that he had to make to force a play-off was one of Irish sport’s great moments.
To see the reaction of the crowd as the ball went into the hole was simply incredible, and despite a very brave effort by the Swede Joakim Lagergren, there was only ever going to be one winner in the play-off.
Over the years, for those who follow sport at all (not even necessarily golf), McIlroy has given us everything from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, but his resilience despite so many heartbreaking nearmisses has been great to see. I have to say that, certainly in my lifetime, he has to be the sportsman that gave us the most remarkable rollercoaster of emotions. Well done Rory – you are my number one!
One of the great subjects for debate among lads at the bar (outside of sport) is the high cost of everything to do with the hospitality sector in this country. We hear of what appears to be outrageous overcharging for everything from the humble pint to tea and scones, from evening meals to the cost of a bed for the night. And so today (Monday, September 8th), just out of curiosity, I decided to find out how much it would cost me to book a single room for myself in a hotel in Galway city tonight – and the result was very interesting. In the city, the cheapest hotel that I found was the Ardilaun at €229 without breakfast, while
As for the pint, the average price is about €5.75 in rural Ireland, but it can be much higher in the cities, with one customer complaining that he paid €11.35 for a pint in Temple Bar. Of course Dublin pubs, restaurants, and hotels can almost charge what they like, as the city gets every major event that takes place during the year – all the big concerts, the rugby and soccer internationals, the big games in the GAA, the Dublin Horse Show, and the St Patrick’s Day Parade, among other major events, all bring huge crowds to the city, and as demand far outstrips availability there is no limit to what they can charge.
That brings me to JD Wetherspoons in Camden Street, a pub a friend of mine was in a few weeks ago, where two pints of their own-brand beer and a pint of non-alcoholic
drink cost the staggering total of just over €8. In case you need to do a retake, you read that right – slightly over €8 for three drinks. And I suppose that begs the question – how can they do it? Although it was not Smithwick’s or any of the other branded beers, the pints were perfectly good. And apparently they also do reasonably priced food, so maybe if you really wanted to keep prices down, you actually could!
I know hotels and restaurants have big costs, but even €229 for a night seems high enough for a single person for a bed for a night –and almost €500 is definitely excessive. The tourist people tell us that the number of foreign visitors is falling, and is it any wonder! Are we really killing the golden goose?
I am (hopefully) going to Spain for a week in October, and before I set foot on Spanish soil I know that everything there will, comparatively, be much cheaper than we have to pay here! They keep telling us to do staycations, but the prices are too high – it is definitely RIP-OFF Ireland!
And finally…
Sheila Beirne has given me some more information regarding the upcoming event in the school hall on Friday, October 17th.
Canella Lane, an Irish online boutique, will showcase a variety of their autumn/ winter collection, including some Christmas dresses for young and old. She tells me you might recognise some of the models ,and that more details of the night’s events will follow!
Tickets cost €20, and can be bought in O’Roarke’s Spar or by ringing Sheila at 087 8382944. This promises to be a great night for all you fashion-conscious ladies, so don’t delay! Get your tickets and keep October 17th free in your busy social calendar for a special night’s entertainment!
‘Til
Pictured in Lisnamult at the recent Kepak Roscommon SHC game between Four Roads and Oran were Dermot Fallon, Killian Crehan and Kieran Fallon.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Are we reaching the end of political pluralism?
For a generation of political anoraks, The West Wing served as both entertainment and a kind of ideological primer. Aaron Sorkin’s fictional White House, with its flawed but idealistic Democratic president Jed Bartlet, was a place where politics was conducted in good faith, where reasoned debate still mattered, and where pluralism – however imperfect – was taken as a given.
One episode in particular, Isaac and Ishmael, comes to mind this week. It aired just weeks after the 9/11 attacks and sought, in its own way, to make sense of an event that had no easy explanation. The episode is non-canonical, more public service than drama, and features the cast engaging directly with the audience before turning inward to dramatise the White House response to a terrorist threat. Its message was clear: pluralism – the idea that a society can hold multiple truths, values, and identities at once – is the very thing that fundamentalism cannot abide.
With party headquarters now issuing instructions to councillors to block the nomination of Independent candidates, the space for political
It’s a lofty concept for a television script, but it struck a chord then, as it does now.
This week marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. It also happens to coincide with a rather different political moment: the emerging race for the Presidency of Ireland. And while it would be deeply inappropriate to compare these events in any direct way, one cannot help but notice the ideological uniformity shaping the field of Presidential hopefuls.
plurality in this election appears to be narrowing. There is a real possibility that, for the first time in living memory, the Irish people may be presented with a ballot of candidates whose policy outlooks and ideological leanings are broadly aligned. The kind of creative, contrarian, or even controversial candidacy that once added texture to presidential campaigns seems conspicuously absent.
This is not a call for fringe politics, nor a lament for colourful candidates for their own sake. But if pluralism really is a foundational value of Western democratic society – as The West Wing once suggested it was – then surely it should be reflected in the choices available to voters, even in a largely ceremonial race.
We have not reached the end of pluralism in Ireland, but we may be drifting towards a more curated, cautious kind of politics – one where consensus is not forged, but preselected.
It is worth watching. And worth questioning.
author of Leitrim-Roscommon based novel ‘To Love and Serve’ will present/ sign her book in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown on September 26 @ 7p.m.
Mary would love to meet present and prospective readers.
Samaritans host information meeting
Could you be a Samaritans volunteer? No experience or qualifications are required as training, mentorship and support will be provided.
If you’re interested, please come to an information meeting at the Samaritan Centre (3, Court Devenish, Athlone) at 11 am on Sunday, September 14th, call John on 087 7176189, or email athlone.branchrecruitment@samaritans.org. Samaritans provide 24-hour emotional support on Freecall 116 123.
Mary and James raise almost €5k for Kilglass Sick Children’s Fund
Mother and son duo Mary and James Bennett from Tarmonbarry recently completed the Ring of Kerry cycle (on July 5th), to raise funds for their local charity, the Kilglass Sick Children’s Fund.
Mary is the mother of four adult boys, three of whom have autism, and she took time out of her busy schedule to fundraise for a charity very close to her heart.
Castlerea sisters in action at World Boxing Championships
There have been mixed fortunes for Castlerea boxing sisters Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke at the World Championships this week.
Aoife is guaranteed at least a bronze medal at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool following her hugely impressive victory against Sunniva Hofstad of Norway in the quarter-final at lunchtime on Wednesday.
In the 75kg category, the Castlerea woman won 4-1 on the judges scorecards and she will now meet Lina Wang
of China in the semi-final on Saturday. Aoife’s sister, Lisa, was defeated in dramatic circumstances in the quarter-finals of the 70kg weight category on Tuesday night. Her opponent was top seed, Australian Lekeisha Pergoliti.
The Castlerea woman won the first round but narrowly lost the second. In the third round fortunes went one way and then the other, both boxers feeling they had done enough to win. However Pergoliti was given the verdict on a split decision.
Kilbride No Name Club volunteers
recognised
Kilglass Sick Children Fund is a registered charity that was started a number of years ago by a committee of local ladies from the area to help families who have a child/young person in hospital or with long-term medical needs.
Mary and James would like to thank everyone who supported them in their fundraising, through personal donations and the GoFundMe page. Mary would like particularly to thank Fitness Factory Longford, who ran an in-house competition and raised €500 for her. The total amount raised was an incredible €4,910.
The Presidential Election 2025 will be held on Friday, 24th October 2025. If you are eligible to vote and not on the Register of Electors, you must apply on or before Tuesday, 7th October 2025.
To vote in a presidential election, you must be:
• An Irish citizen; and
• Aged 18 or over; and
• Ordinarily resident in Ireland; and
• Registered to vote.
How to apply:
• On-line on www.checktheregister.ie
• Hard copy forms (ERF1) are available at Roscommon County Council’s Headquarters at the address below. Copies are also available to download at www.checktheregister.ie.
POSTAL VOTE
If your illness or disability or due to your work/service or study reasons will prevent you from attending a polling station on polling day, you may be entitled to vote by post. If entitled to, you must apply for your postal vote on or before Monday, 29th September 2025
Contact Roscommon County Council at 090 6637147 or Email checkthereg@roscommoncoco.ie to enquire about your eligibility to vote by post. Forms to apply for a postal vote can be downloaded at www.checktheregister.ie (See QR code)
All completed forms must be returned by either email to checkthereg@roscommoncoco.ie or by Free Post, Register of Electors FRN3, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42VR98.
Caitlín Conneely Director of Services
Founded in 1978, No Name Club is a national, voluntary youth organisation that empowers young people aged 15 to 18 to socialise in a safe, fun environment – free from the pressures of alcohol and drugs.
Today, the clubs – one of which is held in Kilbride – play a vital role in helping members build confidence, friendships, and life skills while avoiding the risks of peer pressure.
At the No Name Club Annual National Volunteer Conference 2025, held in Tullamore at the weekend, volunteers were celebrated for the vital role they play in clubs nationwide, including dedicated members of No Name Club Kilbride.
To find out more or locate your nearest club, visit nonameclub.ie.
Roscommon Alzheimer’s Memory Walk to take place in Castlerea
County Roscommon will proudly host an Alzheimer’s Memory Walk event this year as part of the nationwide Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva, taking place on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, in honour of World Alzheimer’s Day. The Roscommon event will be held in The Demesne, Castlerea bringing together families, friends, and the local community to walk in solidarity with the 64,000 people living with dementia
in Ireland – and to remember those who are no longer with us. Now in its sixth year, the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a celebration of connection, compassion, and community.
In 2024, nearly 3,500 walkers nationwide raised over €150,000 to support vital services including Daycare, Support Groups, Family Carer Training, Social Clubs, Memory Cafés, and
the ASI National Helpline. Local Champion Michelle Shiel will lead the Roscommon Alzheimer’s Memory Walk, inviting the community to gather at the Green Gates across from the ASI Day Centre in Castlerea for a 2.5km walk through the Demesne, starting at 10 am.
“I am really looking forward to this year’s Castlerea, Co Roscommon Memory Walk which falls on September 21st – World Alzheimer’s Day. People around the world will come together in support of those living with dementia and their loved ones, and here in Castlerea Demesne we will walk together.
“Memory Walk is a chance to share memories and create new ones together and is such a lovely event for everyone who attends.
“I would encourage everyone who can to register now at www.memorywalk. ie to join me this World Alzheimer’s Day – Sunday, September 21st – at Castlerea Day Centre for a 2.5km walk in The Demesne, Castlerea starting at 10 am.”
Dymphna O’Rourke (left) and Stephen Banahan (right) –volunteers with No Name Club Kilbride, Co Roscommon – pictured with CEO Jack O’Brien (middle) at the recent No Name Club Volunteer Conference in Tullamore.
Mary Bennett pictured presenting the cheque to committee members from the Kilglass Sick Children’s Fund. Missing from photo: Noreen Corcoran, Una Compton, and Sheila Lawe.
Walking the walk: The launch of the 2025 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk was held recently. To find out more and to register for the Roscommon Alzheimer’s Memory Walk or another location near you, please visit www.memorywalk.ie
Local students to compete at WorldSkills Ireland 2025
WorldSkills Ireland, Ireland’s leading event dedicated to promoting skills, apprenticeship careers, and workplace opportunities for young people is returning to the RDS, Simmonscourt from September 17th-19th 2025. Now firmly established as a must-attend event in school calendars, it will welcome over 30,000 senior-level secondary students from over 300 schools across Ireland to discover real alternatives to university
and explore exciting, futurefocused career paths. In 2024, 75% of student attendees came to learn about practical, skills-based routes, a clear sign of the growing appetite for apprenticeships and technical careers.
Across the three days, two students from Co Roscommon will put their talents and knowledge to the test when they compete against their peers on the national stage
during the live competitions taking place at the event.
Over 180 finalists will go head to head in a range of skills-based trades, including automotive, construction, creative arts, hospitality, ICT and manufacturing and engineering. Those competing from Co Roscommon include Kyle Hayden (pictured), competing in Industrial Control, and Luca Howard, competing in Architectural Stonemasonry.
Liam Fleming remembered: ‘A life of service and quiet generosity’
Liam Fleming, a well-known Roscommon businessman and community figure, has been remembered with deep affection following his passing last week at the age of 89.
Originally from Ballinlough, Mr Fleming was founder of Fleming’s SuperValu in Roscommon Town, a business he and his wife Lilian opened in 1972. The store, which started out as Fleming’s VG, became a fixture in the town centre and is now run by their son Shane and daughter-in-law Orla. In 2022, it marked its 50th anniversary.
Fr Kevin Fallon, speaking during Funeral Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart on Friday last, described Mr Fleming as “generous, unassuming and com-
passionate”, a man who brought joy to others and took great pride in his family and roots.
In a tribute shared by the business, he was remembered as someone who “dedicated his life to serving the people of Roscommon”, providing opportunities to “countless young people and students, many of whom began their working lives under his guidance.”
Symbols brought to the altar reflected aspects of a full and varied life: a photograph depicting the store’s anniversary celebrations, a bowl of soil to represent Liam’s love of farming, a deck of cards, and a passport to reflect his love of travel. A small statue symbolised his longstanding commitment to community
projects, including his years as treasurer of the local Christmas Light Committee and his involvement in the development of Loughnaneane Park.
Speaking on behalf of the family, his daughter Ríona said: “Our Dad was a man of very few words but what he did say to us carried weight.” She described Liam and Lilian as “a great partnership in life and business”, adding that their 58 years of marriage stood as a testament to that bond.
Mr Fleming passed away peacefully at Roscommon Hospice. He is mourned by his wife Lilian, their six children, extended family members and his many friends. He was laid to rest in St Coman’s Cemetery.
This year’s Terry Fox Run in Boyle
The annual Terry Fox Run in aid of
research will take place in Boyle again this year, with the 2025 event being held on Sunday, October 5th. To celebrate 30 years raising funds for cancer research in Ireland, the event reverts to its original name (from Run Walk n Roll). Local organisers would love to see all our supporters from over the years join us on October 5th. If you have any novel ideas to help make it a particularly special year, we would love to hear from you!
The late Liam Fleming. May he rest in peace.
(Proudly serving farmers for over 66 years)
Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373
Friday 12th September @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers 98 Pens on Offer
Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks
Friday 19th September @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Bullocks
Also, Dry Cows and Heifers Bookings accepted until Monday 15th September @ 5 p.m.
Friday 26th September @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers
Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks Bookings accepted
Castlerea MART WATCH
Numbers presented for sale continue to grow at Castlerea Mart as of the last sale on Thursday, September 4th. Trade and prices were on par with previous weeks and a good clearance took place. Small stock in particular are a very strong trade at the moment, with both ringside and online very active.
The bullock ring witnessed quality stores make up to 6.71 a kilo, while heavier lots made up to €3000. The heifer ring recorded 6.33 a kilo for stores, with lots making up to €3200. Dry cows hit €3540, while cows with calves made up to €3660. Springers made up to €3100, while the runner ring recorded prices up to €2020. Cows with calves at foot made from €2920 to €3660 for a five-yearold cow and her heifer calf at foot.
Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursdays, with the weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Please note that as of and from Monday, September 15th, the bullock sale will resume on Mondays.
Roscommon MART WATCH
Cattle: There was a great entry of stock on offer at Friday’s special sale of bullocks and general cattle sale (September 5th). There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside, with online bidders also active. There was a very good trade for all bullocks and stripper cows. Bullocks fetched an average of €4.84 per kilo up to €8.92 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows, and they made an average of €3.73 per kilo up to €4.35 per kilo.
Dry cows, sample prices: SIX - 860KG€3370 - €3.92 per kg, CHX – 790KG - €3200 - €4.05 per kg, LMX – 755KG - €3,140- €4.16 per kg, BBX - 685KG - €2980 - €4.35 per kg, FR - 780KG - €2820 - €4.47 per kg, and AAX615KG - €1930 - €3.14 per kg.
Bullocks, sample prices: CHX - 880KG€4370- €4.97 per kg, LMX - 725KG - €3980 - €5.49 per kg, Ø 1 CHX – 720KG - €4120€5.72 per kg, SA - 815KG - €3300 - €4.05 per kg, LMX – 420KG - €2600 – €6.19 per kg, Ø
2X CH - 590KG - €2980 - €5.05 per kg, and AAX - 695KG - €2800 - €4.03 per kg. Weanlings
There was a large entry of good quality weanlings on offer at the sale held on Tuesday evening, September 9th, with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active.
Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €5.69 per kilo up to €8.75 per kilo. Heifer weanlings made from an average of €5.59 per kilo up to €8.33 per kilo.
Bull weanlings, sample prices: CHX – 320KG-€2800-€8.75 per kg, BBX- 395KG -€2820 -€7.14 per kg, CHX-330KG-€2700-€8.18 per kg, CHX-335KG-€2560-€7.64 per kg, BBX-340KG-€2460-€7.24 per kg, LMX365KG-€2400-€6.58 per kg, and LMX390KG-€2370-€6.08 per kg.
Heifer weanlings, sample prices: BBX -360KG -€3000- €8.33 per kg, BBX -350KG€2900-€8.29 per kg, LMX-295KG- €2440€8.27 per kg, CHX- 285KG- €1940- €6.81 per kg, two LMX-400KG-€2600-€6.50 per kg, and LMX-325KG- €2100- €6.46 per kg.
The next weanling sale will take place from 4 pm on Tuesday, September 23rd.
Sheep
There was a very large entry of sheep on offer at the weekly sale of lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, September 10th. Prices for lambs made up to €242, while stag ewes topped out at €286. The next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, September 17th. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on marteye.ie.
THURSDAY 18TH OF SEPTEMBER:
MONDAY 22ND
THURSDAY
THURSDAY 2ND OF OCTOBER:
SATURDAY 4TH OCTOBER: SATURDAY WEANLING SALE
SATURDAY 11TH OTCOBER: SATURDAY WEANLING SALE
Pictured at the recent Elphin Agricultural Show Photo: Michael Finan
ABOUT TRUCKING FOR CANCER ...
Trucking for Cancer was founded by Gerry Grennan, James Morris and Stephen Mullen – 3 lifelong members of the trucking community who were personally touched by cancer. The truck run will cover 19 Cancer Support Centres across Ireland within 48 hours. The mission is to raise both awareness and essential funds for these centres, which provide free, life-changing services to cancer patients and their families. The event will culminate in a special Truck Convoy from Athlone to Roscommon on the 21st September. Please support.
ENTERTAINMENT Culture&ARTS
To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
Roscommon hosts Brazilian Day Festival on Saturday
The vibrant colours, sounds, and flavours of Brazil are coming to Roscommon on this Saturday, September 13th, with the Brazilian Day Festival set to take place at Kilbride Community Centre. This exciting event, open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm, promises a day full of cultural immersion, community engagement, and cross-cultural exchange.
The public are invited to join in for a day of celebration, learning, and community building. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Brazilian culture, and contribute to fostering
a more inclusive and integrated community in Roscommon.
The Brazilian Day Festival is a community-driven event aimed at celebrating Brazilian culture, music, gastronomy, and promoting crosscultural understanding. It will provide a platform for cultural exchange, community engagement, and support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Brazilian music, sports, and culinary delights, enjoying live performances, traditional dances, and vibrant music that capture
the essence of Brazilian culture.
Additionally, the festival aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and integration within the local community, promoting mutual respect and appreciation for diverse cultures. Local businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those of Brazilian origin, will be supported through a platform to showcase their unique products and services, offering visitors a variety of stalls to explore. Panels, arts and crafts, cusine, dance and music will provide insights into Brazilian culture, history, and contemporary issues, making the
festival not only entertaining, but also informative. The event will serve as a bridge for community integration, encouraging local businesses to engage with the Brazilian and wider Roscommon community, thereby promoting economic and social cohesion.
Keep up to date on social media for updates and sneak peeks of what to expect at the Brazilian Day Festival, by following @ braziliandayroscommon on Instagram. For more information, please contact braziliandayroscommon@gmail.com.
Gerry’s poetry masterclass at Arts Centre
A familiar name on the Irish literary scene, poet and author Gerry Boland will lead a one-day poetry masterclass at Roscommon Arts Centre from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturday, October 4th. This workshop is aimed at anyone with an interest in poetry – whether you’re just starting out, or have years of writing behind you. With his signature blend of insight, encouragement, and expertise, Gerry will guide participants through a rich and engaging day of reading, discussion, and hands-on writing.
Participants will explore contemporary poems (including a few of Gerry’s own), learn to spot the difference between an average poem and a great one, and come away with brand new work in development – as well as a clearer sense of their own poetic voice.
Gerry Boland is the author of ten books, including three poetry collections: Watching Clouds, In the Space Between, and All That Jazz. His upcoming project (working title AHISMA) – a powerful collection of poems and photographs exploring animal rights – is set for publication in the US in 2027. A former writer-in-residence with Roscommon County Council, Gerry brings years of experience leading poetry, fiction and memoir workshops across the country.
The workshop costs €45. Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. Tickets are available now from the box office on 09066 25824 and from roscommonartscentre.ie.
Launch of West-Midlands Credit Union 2025 Art Competition
West-Midlands Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2025 Credit Union Art Competition and is calling on local artists of all ages to take part in one of Ireland’s longest running and most inclusive art initiatives. The competition invites people from all walks of life to express themselves through creativity, with this year’s theme asking them to reflect on ‘The Future is…’ This year’s theme encourages artists to look ahead with imagination, hope, and curiosity. Participants might explore personal dreams and milestones, a better world for the next generation, or how
change and progress might shape our lives and communities.
Now in its 42nd year, the Credit Union Art Competition continues to support and promote creativity at every stage of life.
The competition is open to entrants across two categories: the general category and the additional needs category. Each category is broken down into five age groups (based on age as of December 31st 2025): 7 years and under, 8-10 years inclusive, 1113 years inclusive, 14-17 years inclusive, and 18 years and over (adult).
Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, and how well the theme is explored. All artwork must be hand-drawn or painted. Digital artwork will not be accepted. Winners, runners-up, and merit award winners at local level will be presented with their prizes by West-Midlands Credit Union and winners will go forward to Chapter for adjudication. Entry forms and competition details are available from the West-Midlands Credit Union website wmcu.ie, or can be picked up from your local WestMidlands Credit Union branch. The closing date for completed entries is Friday, October 10th
The AGM of the Roscommon Drama Festival Committee will take place in Gleeson’s, Roscommon on Monday, September 22nd at 6 pm.
The Drama Festival has become one of the most successful on the circuit with ‘full house’ notices the norm and the very best of Irish amateur drama groups taking to the stage at the Roscommon Arts Centre. The 2026 Festival promises to be one of the best yet. Watch out for details in forthcoming issues of the Roscommon People.
2025.
Artist Darran McGlynn, curator Kate McSharry, and artist Fiachna Quinn pictured recently at the opening of McGlynn’s ‘Oh What A State’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Brian Farrell
Alison Maher and Juley-Ann Collins of Roscommon Arts Centre pictured attending the opening of artist Darragh McGlynn’s ‘Oh What A State’ exhibition. Pic: Brian Farrell
Giovani Cruz (Galway) pictured with artist Darran McGlynn at the opening of his solo exhibition, ‘Oh What A State’, at Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Brian Farrell
Catherine Lee, manager of Roscommon Arts Centre, pictured with artist Darran McGlynn at the opening of his solo exhibition, ‘Oh What A State’. Pic: Brian Farrell
Valeria Ceregini (Athlone) and Joanna Cruz (Galway) pictured at Roscommon Arts Centre for the opening of artist Darragh McGlynn’s ‘Oh What A State’ exhibition. Pic: Brian Farrell
Pictured is poet and author Gerry Boland, who will lead an upcoming one-day poetry masterclass at the Roscommon Arts Centre.
FRIDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 2025
ROSCOMMON
Ballaghaderreen
DILLON HOUSE
6.30-8.30PM
Rambling House at The Parlour, Dillon House with traditional Irish musicians, hosted by Ballaghaderreen Library.
EDMONDSTOWN HOUSE
8.30PM BOOKING
Comedy Night featuring Eddie Mullarkey, Patrick McDonnell and Eve Darcy.
Ballydangan
MOORE COMMUNITY HALL
6-9PM
Exhibition of Local Arts & Crafts featuring Dee McKiernan, Our Crucial Callows Art Exhibition.
6.30-7PM
Creativity and Expression with Readings, Storytelling & Musical Amy Abdullah Barry with Clonown NS Students.
8-9PM
An evening of Music, Song, Dance & Readings.
Boyle
KING HOUSE
4-7PM Community Festival of Fun – King House Courtyard hosted by Boyle Family Resource Centre.
5-6PM BOOKING
Kathy Raftery Films – After the Storm (2025), One by One the Lights Go Out (2024), A Roscommon Snapshot (2023).
5.30-6.30PM
Artist Martin Heron - A Word in your Shell-Like Exhibition and Make Your Own.
6.30-7.30PM BOOKING
Niall Sheerin FilmIn God’s Hands: A Portrait of Artist Michael Sheerin.
7.30PM BOOKING
Duo Lyrica - Flute & Piano Concert with Fionnuala & Kieran Moynihan.
ÚNA BHÁN TOURISM
4-5PM
Trudy Callaghan will read from Rosie’s Happy Place followed by Art Activities for children.
5.30-6.30PM
When Worlds Collide - how art and design shape us. Talk by Rosie Farrell, designer, editor, artist.
NEW ART GALLERY
5-8PM
Late Opening at New Art Gallery, An Ríoga.
BOYLE ABBEY
6PM
Tour of Boyle Abbey with Thomas Campbell.
CREIGHTON’S
7-8PM
The Long Road/An Bother Fada with trio Christine Tobin (vocals), Phil Robson (guitar) and Damien Evans (double bass).
DODD’S
7.30-9PM
Boyle Songwriters Circle – Local songwriters perform their best songs.
BOYLE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
8.15PM-9.30PM BOOKING
Boyle Film Club screening of His & Hers (2009) by Director Ken Wardrop – screening with Q&A.
Castlerea
TRINITY ARTS CENTRE
7-9PM
The Art of Belonging, a Creative Community Exhibition celebrating international voices.
Cootehall
MCGAHERN BARRACKS
6-8PM
A Celebration of Memories in photographs and stories.
8-8.30PM
Reading: Wayne Denniston short story ‘The Orphan’s Club’.
Frenchpark
DOUGLAS HYDE CENTRE
7-8.30PM
Open House with The Creative Co-Op: Emma Donnelly, Therese Hanley, Patricia Lane, Fidelma Curley and friends.
Keadue
ST. RONAN’S HALL
8-11PM
Ceol ó Céideadh - An evening of music, song and dance with members of Keadue CCÉ.
Knockcroghery
CULLEEN HALL
7-9PM
Knockcroghery Pioneer Pipe Band – Instrument display & talk by Mary Dwyer.
MURRAY’S
8:30-11PM
The Rising of the Moon: The songs and the stories of John Keegan Casey with South Roscommon Singers Circle.
Strokestown
STROKESTOWN PARK HOUSE, GARDENS & NATIONAL FAMINE MUSEUM
4-7PM BOOKING
The Joy of Art - Workshop with artist Jacqueline Duignan. All ages and abilities, exploring collage, basic printing and mark making.
7.30-9PM
Echoes of 1916 Exhibition launch by artist Ellen Susan Igoe, Portraits of the Seven Signatories of the Proclamation.
Roscommon Town
FOYER, ÁRAS AN CHONTAE
4-6PM
Exhibition launch by artist Honor FitzGerald, See Saw - A Journey through Nature.
LOUGHNANEANE PARK & TOWN
5-6.30PM
Art in the Open: Culture Night Walking Trail of Roscommon’s Public Art incl 4 new temporary artist commissions in Loughnaneane Park. Starting at Áras an Chontae.
ROSCOMMON ARTS CENTRE
5-8PM
Gallery: Oh What a State, Exhibition by artist Darran McGlynn, curator Kate McSharry.
5-7PM BOOKING
Drama Workshop for Adults with Louise Holian Give it a Go.
5.30-6PM
Noel Molloy Performance Art, The Great Leveler.
8PM BOOKING
Cathal Shanagher presents Comedy Club with special guest Karl Spain & rising stars from the Irish comedy circuit Enda Whitney, Ken Lindsay, Fiona O’Mahoney, Seán Ryan, Julie Gillen.
HANNON’S HOTEL
8-10PM
Creative Open Mic Night for local performers, hosted by Bianca Fachel and Sinead Byrne.
Tulsk
RATHCROGHAN VISITOR CENTRE
8.30-10PM BOOKING
Tírdhreach Oíche filíochta, amhránaíochta & ceol nua-chumtha le Aiteall.
Night of poetry, singing and original music with Déaglán Ò Finnthigheirn & Aoife Bheilbigh.
OÍCHE DÁR SAOL ONE NIGHT FOR ALL ONE NIGHT FOR ALL
Sean Naughton MIPAV
toilet & WHB, storage heating and Group Water Scheme. Second residence is a two-storey derelict building and is in need of complete renovation. Also included is a nice enclosed yard with some
stone buildings which can be easily upgraded. The property is located 10 minutes from Roscommon town and 20 minutes to Athlone. It can be sold as 3 lots depending on demand. Copy of Maps on Request
When it comes to selling property, there is no substitute for experience! If you are thinking of Selling, Buying, Renting or need a Valuation, contact Sean Naughton for BEST Prices, BEST Rates and COMPLETE Privacy Guaranteed. Sean can be contacted at any of the details above and below
Sheehy Meares Team
Auctioneer Sean Naughton is delighted to bring to the market a two-bedroomed, first-floor apartment, ideally situated in the Stone Court Centre in the heart of Roscommon Town. Properties in the Stone Court Centre are rarely available, making this a unique opportunity to acquire a superb home.
Two Roscommon stores honoured at Londis awards
Two Roscommon stores have been recognised among the country’s top-performing retailers at the Londis Retailing Excellence Awards 2025. Casey’s Londis, Athlone Road, Roscommon, and Kennedy’s Londis, Boyle, were named winners at the awards, which took place at the Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort, Gorey, Co Wexford. The event, organised by BWG Foods, owners and operators of the Londis brand in Ireland, was held in partnership with independent evaluators
Solution Management Associates (SMA). Each winning store underwent a detailed assessment to measure standards across fresh food, product range, store presentation, and customer service.
Conor Hayes, Sales Director at Londis, praised the commitment shown by the winners. “Since their launch in 2015, the Londis Retailing Excellence Awards have celebrated retailers who go above and beyond in delivering quality, service, and innovation,” he said.
“These awards shine a spotlight on the passion and professionalism that define our Londis network. I’m proud to acknowledge our Roscommon winners, whose dedication to their customers and communities sets a remarkable standard. Their recognition is richly deserved.”
The awards are designed to highlight best practice across Londis’ nationwide network of community-based retailers.
Roscommon supermarket opens doors as ‘safe place’ for students
Brennan’s Centra in Abbeytown, Roscommon Town, has announced a new community initiative offering its premises as a safe space for students after school.
Located between the town’s main schools, the supermarket will welcome young people who may have missed their bus, are waiting for a lift, or need to use the shop phone if their own device has failed. The move has received widespread praise online, with a post about the service attracting more than 65,000 views within three days.
Owner Darren Brennan, who also runs a Centra store in Athlone, said the idea is rooted in community engagement. “We’ve been doing this for years as part of the Centra brand.”
WDC summit on shaping the future
The Western Development Commission (WDC) brought together over 150 local, regional and national leaders on Thursday, September 4th at The Model, Sligo for the Regional Resilience Summit.
This major event focused on shaping the future of the West and Northwest of Ireland through joined-up thinking, collaboration, and long-term investment. Under the theme ‘Regional Resilience: Building the Future Together,’ the summit convened pol-
icy leaders, entrepreneurs, community innovators, and development partners to address the economic, social, and structural shifts impacting regional Ireland and to spotlight the role of leadership in unlocking collective progress.
Hosted by broadcaster Andrea Gilligan, the event featured high-profile contributions from national and international thought leaders.
Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said “The Regional Resilience Summit in Sligo has shown the strength, ambition, and innovation that exists right across the West and Northwest.
“This region has the talent, the ideas, and the community spirit to thrive and government will continue to support that energy through investment, infrastructure, and inclusive policy.
“I commend the Western Development Commission for leading this vital conversation and for the work it does every day to drive sustainable growth in rural and regional Ireland.”
Throughout the summit, the WDC showcased its strategic role in driving sustainable development, highlighting the impact of the Western Investment Fund, support for innovation and enterprise, hubs, investment in social enterprise, and its leadership in regional policy.
He added that both stores are well placed to serve local schools: “We have a number of schools around each store, so it works really well. Young people can come in and do their homework while they wait for their parents to pick them up.”
Mr Brennan said the store’s seating area is available in the afternoons, explaining that the seating area goes quiet after lunch, and after that, the store is happy enough to let the young people “use it and work away.”
Parents are encouraged to highlight the shop to their children as a safe place to go if needed. “If needed by young people, the shop phone is always there to use. There’s no bother at all, we’re always there to help,” Mr Brennan said.
Tour operators from Australia and New Zealand visit Roscommon
Eight tour operators from Australia and New Zealand have been visiting Ireland in recent days as guests of Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland.
The visiting tour operators are important partners for Tourism Ireland, bringing valuable visitors from Australia and New Zealand to Ireland each year. Tourism Ireland aims to familiarise them with our superb tourism offering, to ensure Ireland features prominently in their programmes.
The tour operators’ itinerary included a guided tour of the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, as well as an
overnight stay in Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa.
Sofia Hansson, Tourism Ireland’s Manager for Australia and New Zealand, said: “We’re delighted these influential tour operators from Australia and New Zealand have taken the time to come and experience Ireland’s superb tourism offering –including our rich cultural and historical experiences – and see for themselves what Ireland has to offer their clients.
“It’s a great opportunity to familiarise them with the destination for consideration in their future programmes”.
Photographed recently at the Londis Retailing Excellence Awards 2025 at the Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort, Gorey, Co Wexford (left to right) are Shane Hopkins, Londis Retail Development Manager; Jim Casey, and Maria Casey of Casey’s Londis, Athlone Road, Roscommon.
The seating area at Brennan’s Centra, Roscommon town.
Australian and New Zealand tour operators at Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, with Viktoria Albrecht, Tourism Ireland (back, right).
Pictured at the summit were Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission and Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Classifieds
< ALCOHOLICS
ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor). Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm; Wednesday 1pm to 2pm; Thursday 8pm to 9pm; Saturday 8pm to 9pm; Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.
Ladies Meeting Friday 8pm to 9pm.
Mobile Footcare
Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.
Chimney Cleaning
• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires
• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods
CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS
• Can be cleaned from the bottom up
• Chimney cowls and crow guards fitted Telephone: 087 2798704
Are you affected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com
FENCING/GATES
For all your fencing needs.
Do you need your garden tidied up for Autumn?
Hedge cutting, pruning, strimming, patios power washed, fenches/sheds treated and general garden maintenance. Roscommon/Strokestown area. Reasonable rates. Tel 085 1086215
GARDENING
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the
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.
Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 089 4467372 or 090 66 33084
Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon
PODIATRIST
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.
l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available
(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –
CHFP (Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214
ROSCOMMON COUNTY
COUNCIL
I, Ciaran Hourican, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a residential development consisting of 14no. dwelling units as follows (a) 1 no. single storey 2 bed detached dwelling (b) 1 no. single storey 2 bed semi-detached dwelling (c) 9no. two storey 3 bed terrace units (d) 3no. two storey 3 bed semi-detached units (e) the construction of a pumping station (f) along with all associated site works including footpaths, access road, car parking, boundary treatments, public lighting, ducting for utilities, connections to existing foul and surface water drainage and all other ancillary site works.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mary Connolly, am applying to Roscommon County Council for Retention Permission to retain as constructed a dwelling house, septic tank, domestic garage and entrances along with all ancillary site development works at Barnacullen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, F42 VK38. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
We, Brothers of Charity Services Ire. Ltd, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for internal and elevational alterations to an existing community dwellinghouse, for amended ramp access and for all associated site development works at 18 St. Ciaran’s Park, Ardnanagh, Co Roscommon.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Padraic Tansey, am applying to Roscommon County Council for Retention Permission to retain as constructed First Floor extension to rear of house and revised elevations which differ to that granted under PD/23/60055 and carry out all ancillary site development works Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon, F45 RC65. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
I, Ruth Keegan, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house along with domestic garage, new Treatment system and percolation area, and all ancillary site development works at Donamon, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
We, WDCY Filling Stations Ltd, intend to apply for Retention Permission for the following; (a) solar panels previously installed on the forecourt canopy and the roof of the existing shop building (b) advertising signs on the west and east gables of the existing shop building (c) Ad Blue storage tank and associated pump (d) along with all other associated site works.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
I, James Craughwell, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect a dwelling house, upgrade the existing access road and carry out all necessary site works to facilitate same at Old Tuam Road, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
Signed: James Craughwell
ROSCOMMON COUNTY
COUNCIL
I, Grainne Brady, intend to Apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to retain Existing Poly Tunnel upgrade existing septic with a new treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works at Rushport, Kilmore, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
Signed: Grainne Brady
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
We, Ballyfeeny Green Energy Limited, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for a ten-year planning permission for renewable energy development at this site comprising the construction and operation of a wind farm and related works in the townlands of Tully and Ballyfeeny (also referred to as Ballyfeeney), County Roscommon.
A proposed underground grid connection will be installed mainly within the public road extending from a proposed onsite 38 kilovolt (kV) electrical substation at Ballyfeeny to where the R371 meets the Sliabh Bawn Substation Road in the townland of Tooreen, passing through the townlands of Pollymount, Bellanamullia, Scramoge, Treanaceeve, Ballyhubert, Co. Roscommon.
Certain details of the proposed development are unconfirmed in the planning application and an opinion on unconfirmed details from Roscommon County Council pursuant to Section 32I of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) accompanies this planning application (Case Reference: DFR/25/1).
The proposed development will consist of:
• The construction and operation of a wind farm consisting of six wind turbines;
• The turbine specification is unconfirmed but will fall within the parameter range outlined by Roscommon County Council and will be one of the following three Options;
o Technology Option 1: tip height of 160m, rotor diameter of 136m and hub height of 92m; or
o Technology Option 2: tip height of 156m, rotor diameter of 133m and hub height of 90m; or
o Technology Option 3: tip height of 159m, rotor diameter of 138m and hub height of 90m.
• Construction of turbine hardstands (including crane and assembly areas) and turbine foundations;
• Construction of approximately 3.9km of new permanent internal site access tracks and the upgrade of 0.5km of existing internal site access tracks;
• Construction of a permanent onsite 38kV electrical substation, including one single story substation building with welfare facilities, Lidar, diesel generator and fuel storage tank, all associated electrical plant and equipment, all associated underground cabling, rainwater harvesting and storage tank, wastewater holding tank, security fencing, gates, signage, and all ancillary structures and works.
• Installation of underground electrical and communications cabling connecting the wind turbines to the proposed onsite 38kV electrical substation;
• Construction, of two temporary site compounds with associated site offices, welfare facilities, car parking, site fencing and lighting;
• Erection of a permanent 30m high communications relay tower;
• Construction access via six site entrances (SE1 – SE6) to include:
o SE1 on the R371, SE2 and SE3 on the L6018, and SE4, SE5 and SE6 on the L60498;
o SE1 and SE6 are temporary and will be reinstated following construction. SE1 may be re-established if required for turbine component repair or replacement. SE2 – SE5 will be retained permanently for operational access;
• Tree felling to facilitate the construction and operation of the proposed development;
• Installation of approximately 5.1km of permanent underground electrical cabling for the grid connection including cabling within the public road corridor, extending from the proposed onsite 38kV electrical substation at Ballyfeeny to end at the junction of the R371 and the Sliabh Bawn Substation Road in the townland of Tooreen;
• All associated site works, including site clearance, landscaping, site drainage, security gates, fencing, permanent and temporary signage and biodiversity mitigation and enhancements, including hedgerow and treeline planting.
The Applicant is seeking a 10-year planning permission and 35-year operational life, initiating from the date of full commissioning of the entire wind farm. The development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive 2023/2413).
The planning application is subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply.
This planning application is accompanied by an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) which have been prepared in respect of the construction, operation and decommissioning of the proposed development, works to facilitate turbine delivery from the port of entry at the Port of Galway to the wind farm site entrance (SE1) at Ballyfeeny, via Lough Atalia Road, College Road, R339, R685, N6, M6, M18, M17, N17, N5 (New N5 Ballaghadereen to Scramoge Road Project) and the R371, and works for a future underground grid connection extending from the R371 along the Sliabh Bawn Substation Road to the existing Sliabh Bawn 110kV Substation in the townlands of Tooreen, Tonycurneen and Bunnageddy (also referred to as Runnageddy).
The Planning application, EIAR and NIS may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, County Roscommon, F42 VR98 during its public opening hours.
A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the 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
Courts Licence No: LIC-10765
Revenue Licence No: RNP012
Case No: D:LIC:ROS:2025:009184
An Chuirt Duiche The District Court Licensing (Ireland) Act 1833
Section 6
Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960
Section 29
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE
District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4
Kieran Finnerty as Nominee Applicant
TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Kieran Finnerty as nominee of Old Stomping Ground Limited of River Road, Castlecoote, Roscommon intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Roscommon District Court on the 16-Sep-2025 at 10:30 for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (7Day Ordinary) licence attached to the premises situate at Castlecoote, Kilrooskey, Roscommon in the court area and district aforesaid.
Dated 05 Sep 2025
Signed Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP
Solicitor for Applicant
The Square, Roscommon, Roscommon
To the Garda Superintendent, at MR.Roscommon.CE@Garda.ie, Roscommon Garda Station, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 HN32
To the Fire Officer, at fire@roscommoncoco.ie, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 VR98
To the Health Service Executive Official, at roscommon.peho@hse.ie
To the District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court
Job Description: Office Administrator
Position: Permanent Role (part time considered)
Location: Roscommon
Responsible for:
• Co-ordinating day-to-day appointments and inspections;
• Proof reading and quality control of reports;
• General office administration.
Key skills required:
• Good people skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues;
• Ability to prioritise duties and liaise with appointment administrators in other offices;
• Familiarity with MS Word, MS Excel and MS Access;
• Strong English language skills;
• Strong eye for and attention to detail.
Applicants for the role should send their CV and cover letter to: Careers@BrandonOBrien.ie
Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.
County Roscommon Disability Support Group CLG Resource Centre, Derrane, Roscommon
JOB OPPORTUNITIES on COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT – 19.5 hrs p/w
RSG has employment and training opportunities for those that would like to work in the Health and Social Care Sector
Eligibility criteria for CE applies.
Current Vacancies for
• PERSONAL ASSISTANTS to people with physical or sensory impairments
• CLERICAL SUPPORT WORKER
• HOME CARE SUPPORT WORKER
• IT SUPPORT
• CARETAKER
• DRIVER
All positions will be based in RSG, Derrane, Co.Roscommon
• Fully funded Training provided in QQI Level 5 and Level 6
• Gain relevant work experience which will enhance opportunities for full time employment
For more information , please contact or email Bernie Connolly on 090 6625852 ext 150 or ce@rsg.ie
BUS DRIVERS WANTED FOR SCHOOL RUNS
• D or D1 Category
• CPC up to date
• Garda Vetting Required
• Tachograph Card
• Extra Work Between School Runs if wanted
Contact 087 137 4931 if interested
• Immediate Start
• 5 days a week
• Experience an advantage but not essential
Apply with CV to –roscommontyrecentre@gmail.com or by post to above address
Jack and Jill Community Playgroup CLG
Ballinlough, Co Roscommon F45 K799 Email: jackandjillplaygroup@gmail.com
Jack and Jill Community Playgroup, Ballinlough and Jack and Jill SAC, Granlahan are recruiting for a dedicated and experienced
MANAGER
A minimum of Fetac level 7/8 in Early Childhood Studies or equivalent
Ensure that both facilities complies with all relevant regulations and standards set forth by the relevant authorities, such as TUSLA, the Child and Family Agency, DES and Pobal.
Execute the efficient and effective day to day management of both services.
Provide leadership and guidance to staff members with the ability to work on own initiative
Support and assist in providing an enriching learning environment that promotes our emergent, play based curriculum, while promoting children’s holistic development.
A good knowledge of Childcare Regulations, Child Safeguarding measures, Aistear and Siolta as well as a good knowledge of the various funding schemes.
Caring, with a genuine love of working with young children.
Preferable, up to date FAR and Child Protection Training.
• Hours of work 8.30 – 4pm Mon – Fri
• Competitive salary (dependent on qualifications & experience) For a detailed job description please email Clare Judge, Chairperson at jackandjillplaygroup@gmail.com
Closing date for applications is Friday 20th September
Funded by the Irish Government
THE MIRACLE PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus in the past have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where our Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. S.K.
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN
O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor 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 succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. E.
THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. E.
THE MIRACLE PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus in the past have asked for many favours, this time I ask You this special one (mention favour). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart, where our Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication and the favour will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. G.F.
THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail I.W.
THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.C.
NOVENA TO ST. JUDE
O Blessed St. Jude, Glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus. The name of the traitor has caused you to be forgotten by many, but the Church honours and invokes you as the Patron of Hopeless Causes, of matters despaired of. Pray for me, who is so miserable. I implore of thy particular privilege to bring visible and speedy help where help is most despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need, that I may receive the consultations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and suffering, particularly (request). That I may bless God with thee and all blessed throughout eternity. I promise thee, O Blessed Judge, to be ever mindful of this great favour and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful Patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen. Thank you, St. Jude. Say for three days and publish. A.C.
GARVEY
Will those who think of them today, a litle prayer to Jesus say.. Sadly missed and remembered by all their families.
Anniversary Mass will be offered on Sunday, 14th September at 11.30 am in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber.
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GAFFNEY
Patrick
Golf Links Road, Roscommon and Ballinphuill, Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo.
In loving memory of Pat who sadly passed away on the 14th of September 2024. (1st Anniversary)
His smiling way and pleasant face are a pleasure to recall. He had a kindly word for each and died beloved by all. Some day we hope to meet him, some day, we know not when, to clasp his hand in the better land, never to part again.
Always remembered and forever loved by your wife Frances, daughters Lorraine, Ruth & Trish, sons-in-law, grandchildren and extended family.
Our heartfelt thank you to everyone for their comfort and support over the past year
Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 14th of September at 11.30 am in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town.
DUFFY
(nee Lohan)
Pauline
Caggle and Manchester
In loving memory of our dear sister Pauline whom God called home on 12th September 2012
(13th Anniversary)
Today recalls the memories of our loved one gone to rest, and those who think of her today, are those who loved her best. The flowers we lay upon your grave, may wither and decay, but the love for you who lies beneath will never fade away.
Forever missed and loved by her sisters, Ita, Teresa, Mary, Bernadette, Imelda and brother Sean.
Anniversary Mass for Pauline is on Friday, 12th September in Strokestown Parish Church at 10.30am.
NERNEY
Kitty & Jack
Elphin, Co. Roscommon (14th and 55th Anniversaries)
Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on the souls of Kitty Nerney, Elphin, who died on September 11th, 2011 and her husband Jack, who died on September 19th, 1970 Sadly missed and fondly remembered by their family.
DWYER
John
Ballymacurley, Ballinaheglish, Co. Roscommon
In loving memory of John who passed away on 11th September, 2024. (1st Anniversary)
A loving husband, father and grandfather too, each one of us thought the world of you. For us you always did your best, God grant your Soul Eternal Rest. Quickly and quietly came the call, without farewell you left us all. A sudden call from God on high, you had no chance to say goodbye. Without farewell you fell asleep, but memories of you we’ll always keep. We did not know that morning what sorrow the day would bring, when a heart of gold stopped beating and we couldn’t do a thing. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home. We never fail to think of you, we never cease to care. We only wish we could go home and find you waiting there.
Sadly missed by your loving wife, Kathleen; daughter Fiona; sons Michael and Robert; grandchildren Lisa, Paul, Mark, Grace and Orla; son-in-law Luke and daughter-in-law Mary.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 14th September at 11 am. in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish.
ACTON
James (Jim)
Derryvode, Williamstown, Co. Galway
(3rd Anniversary)
In loving memory of Jim who passed away 15th September 2022
R.I.P.
Time slips by and life goes on, but from our hearts you’re never gone. Memories are our greatest treasure, to have, to hold, to keep forever
Loved and remembered by his wife Mary, sons Declan and Brian; daughter Caroline, son-in-law Aidan, daughterin-law Fiona, grandchildren and extended family
Anniversary Mass for Jim will take place on Saturday, 13th September at 7.00pm in St. Therese’s Church, Williamstown.
Mary (nee Norton) 18 Greenfield Road, Lisnamult, Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)
Afterglow
I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one. I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun; of happy memories that I leave when life is done
Loved and sadly missed by her husband, John; and daughters Shirley, Valerie and Caroline; grandchildren, extended family and friends.
Anniversary Mass for Mary on Saturday 13th September in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 10.00 am.
CASEY
THOMAS F (48th Anniversary) NORA (15th Anniversary)
VALERIE (5th Anniversary)
THOMAS F (3rd Anniversary)
MARTIN (11th Anniversary) MARY (3rd Anniversary)
THOMAS (16th Anniversary)
O’CONNOR M cGEENEY
Teresa
22nd September 2022 (3rd Anniversary)
On this third anniversary of dear Teresa’s death we have cherished memories of her as a loving wife, daughter-in-law, sister, aunt and an enduring friend to so many people. Each year that passes highlights what a diamond of a person Teresa was. Over the past years she has been remembered at each family occasion and particularly at weddings where she loved meeting family and friends, buying a drink for everyone and then dancing the night away to the music of the band. We, her family, friends and nursing colleagues miss her so much. However, we are blessed to have such wonderful memories of dear Teresa. Memories that fill us with consolation, joy and peace. May you rest with the Angels our darling in the loving arms of Jesus Christ and continue to pray for each of us in your heavenly home. St Clare and St Padre Pio pray for us.
She is gone By David
Harkin
You can shed tears that she is gone or you can smile because she has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left. Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her or you can be full of the love that you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember her and only that she is gone or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, Be empty and turn your back or you can do what she would want: Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.
Teresa’s 3rd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated as follows:
St Patrick’s Church, Athleague, Roscommon on Sunday 14th September at 10am
St Brendan’s Church, Corrandulla on Friday 19th September at 7pm
Curry Parish Church, Curry, Sligo on Sunday 21st September at 11.30am
CURLEY
Bridget
Tobberconnor, Rahara (17th Anniversary) 11th September 2008
FIORENTINI (nee Curley)
Bridie
Tobberconnor, Rahara and Cheltenham, England (14th Anniversary) 24th September 2011
Deep are the memories and there they will stay, no passing of time can take them away. You are in our hearts and there the both of you shall stay.
Loved and remembered by daughters: Mary, Ann, Veronica and sons-in-law.
Loved and remembered always by your daughter Francesca, sisters Mary, Ann Veronica and brothers-in-law.
In loving memory of our darling mother who left us too soon on the 11th September 2021
With that glint in your eye you could light up the room, our wonderful dear Mother, you are gone far too soon. The biggest heart, the warmest smile, a gentle touch, but woe betied!
You loved us dearly, as we do you, and you gave everything you had to your two, and, for this dear Mom, we thank you.
An emptiness grows where you once were.
A stillness and silence within our hearts, forever sore at your sudden depart.
Missed and loved more than words can say Mom, love Donna and Derek and famlies. xxx
KENNY
Denis
Oran, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)
A smile for all, a heart of gold, the very best this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind, those are the memories you left behind. Your memories are so precious, your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and missed by all of us.
Lovingly remembered Sean, Geraldine and family.
GACQUIN
Ellen (Nellie)
Kilderney, Curraghboy
In loving memory of Ellen (Nellie) Gacquin, Kilderney, Curraghboy whose 8th anniversary occurs on 5th September 2025.
Silent thoughts, a secret tear, a constant wish that you were here. No need for words except to say, we love and miss you every day
Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by her son William, daughter Maureen, daughters-inlaw Carmel and Rosaleen, grandchildren Colm, Suzanna and Raymond.
Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 14th September at 10am.
Anniversary Mass for Denis and Ann will be celebrated on Saturday 18th October in Cloverhill Church at 7.00 pm
CONBOY Peggy
St. Theresa’s Road, Roscommon Who passed away on the 9th September 2014 (11th Anniversary)
No birthday card to send you
For there is no address, Only a beautiful garden Where you have gone to rest. A day that’s filled with sadness, Returns to us today
To mark the day you closed your eyes and quietly passed away. Nothing can dim the face we loved, Or the memory of your smile, The countless things you did for us, To make our lives worthwhile. Our hearts still ache with sadness, Our secret tears still flow, For what it meant to lose you
No one will ever know.
Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon
FALLON
Kieran
BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS
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In loving memory of Kathleen, who died on 5th September 2022.
We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain. To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.
Always loved and sadly missed by your husband Pat Joe, daughters Geraldine, Sharon and Fionnuala, sons Michael and PJ, son-in -law Seamus and grandchildren.
In loving memory of Patrick who sadly passed away on the 23rd of September 2021.
Every day, in some small way, memories of you come our way. Though absent, you are always near, still missed, still loved, and ever dear.
Always remembered by your family.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Sunday, 14th September at 10am.
Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
Loved and sadly missed by her son Seamus, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Masses offered.
Anniversary Mass for Kathleen will be held at St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Sunday, September 14th at 11am.
Racecourse Road, Roscommon (17th Anniversary)
Cherished memories of a dear husband, father and brother.
Loved and remembered by his wife Bridie, son Mark and daughter Jacqueline, daughter-in-law Lisa, sonin-law David, brothers and sisters.
May he Rest in Peace
Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Four-Mile-House on Sunday, 14th September at 11am.
COX
R.I.P.
LOHAN Paddy
In loving memory of our dearest mother and sister.
Sports PEOPLE Back to the future?
Tentative vote for Four
Roads
v St Dominic’s rematch
Oran’s Jerry Fallon (pictured in action earlier this season) is one of the more experienced players at the club. Oran face St Dominic’s in Sunday’s Roscommon SHC semi-final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
reproduce his
< SEAMUS DUKE
Kepak SHC semi-final: Oran v St Dominic’s in Ballyforan on Sunday at 2 pm
Oran hurlers have slipped quietly into the semi-finals this year after an impressive campaign, while St Dominic’s have had to battle all the way. However it must be said that there were signs last Sunday (especially in the second half) that Thady Beirne’s charges – runners-up last season – are coming into form at just the right time.
Oran look well capable of progressing if they can hit top form. They have many talented performers throughout the field. The Kennys, the evergreen Jerry Fallon, Micheal Hussey, Shane Keane, Declan Leonard, Joe Henry and Paddy Fallon have all been playing well this year. Paddy Fallon has become a real talisman for Francie Quine’s side from play and frees and St Dominic’s will have to try and curb his influence. He is a match-winner if he gets the latitude.
As stated above, St Dominic’s showed signs of a return to the form of 2024 last Sunday against Athleague. Mark Miley, Mike Feeley, Micheal Byrne, Jason Martin, Jack Lohan, Ruairi Kilcline and Naos Connaughton will all have to perform well again this Sunday if they are to maximise their chances of advancing.
A lot of Dominic’s’ attacking is routed through Naos Connaughton, although Ruairi Kilcline was excellent last Sunday too. St Dominic’s will most likely need to vary their attacking play if they are to win.
This is a very hard game to call. St Dominic’s are desperate to get back into the final this year. It’s been nine years since Oran were in a decider so they have plenty of motivation too.
I am giving a hesitant vote to St Dominic’s to edge home.
Prediction: St Dominic’s.
Kepak SHC semi-final: Padraig Pearses v Four Roads in Ballyforan on Sunday at 4 pm
On the face of it this looks a fairly straightforward win for Four Roads, but looking at it a little closer, Pearses are coming into this match with momentum and with a definite chance of causing an upset.
Pearses have won their last three championship games and are building up a nice head of steam. They will be relishing the chance to take down their illustrious neighbours on Sunday.
While Four Roads are going for four titles in a row this year, they will be the first to admit that they have not been playing that well in the campaign to date. However, they are masters at grinding out wins in big championship games without necessarily always hitting great heights in terms of performance.
Top Class players
Four Roads have plenty of top class players like Noel Fallon, Conor Coyle, Jack Donnelly, Adam Donnelly, Liam Og Coyle, Conor Mulry and Conor Morris –amongst others – and even if the chips are down they frequently manage to find a way to win.
Sean Canning is the Pearses’ talisman and you can be sure that Four Roads will have a plan to try to contain him on Sunday. Eoghan Costello, Karl Feehily, Darragh Finn, Matthew Comerford and Ronan Finn will be hoping that they can carry their good form into this semi-final too.
On balance I am going to give the nod to Four Roads to advance by three or four points and set up a repeat of last year’s final pairing.
Prediction: Four Roads.
Conor Mulry… will be a key figure for Four Roads in Sunday’s semi-final against Padraig Pearses. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Ruairi Kilcline will hope to
superb form of last weekend when he lines out for St Dominic’s in Sunday’s Roscommon SHC semi-final against Oran.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Daniel Staunton… was in action for Padraig Pearses in their win over Roscommon Gaels in last Sunday’s Roscommon SHC quarter-final… and will hope to help lower the colours of champions Four Roads this weekend. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
SportsPeople
Champions Weekend preview
Horses for Courses by
Leopardstown on Saturday sees two Group 1 races – the Matron Stakes and the Irish Champions Stakes. There are thirteen declared for the Matron Stakes, headed by Ballydoyle’s January at 2/1 with Karl Burke’s raider Fallen Angel 9/4. The Champion Stakes has twelve declared, with Aidan O’Brien responsible for five, including the odds-on favourite, Delacroix, 4/5.
The main threats in the betting appear to be Japan’s Shin Emperor at 4/1; Owen Burrows’ Anmaat trained in England at 11/2, as is the Johnny Murtagh trained Zahrann. Shin Emperor finished an unlucky fast finishing third in last year’s race to Economics and Augustin Rodin, beaten less than a length, and could make amends this year if Delacroix is not on his A game.
On Sunday, there are four Group 1 races at The Curragh. There are twelve in the Moyglare Stud Stakes for 2-YO fillies, headed by Ballydoyle’s Composing at 11/8 and Karl Burke’s raider Venetian Sun at 13/8, 7/1 bar. The Flying Five has twenty runners, with English raider Asfoora from Henry Dwyer’s yard heading the market at 11/4, followed by Adrian Murray’s Bucanero Fuerte at 7/1 and 8/1 bar. The National Stakes for 2-Y-Os has ten declared, with the O’Brien trained Gstaad the 8/11 odds-on favourite.
The British raiding party provide the second and third favourites in the Charlie Appleby trained Caba Desert, 4/1, and Eve Johnson Houghton’s Zavateri, 5/1 and 7/1 bar. There are sixteen left in the St Leger, the last of the classics, and Joseph O’Brien’s Al Riffa heads the betting at 2/1 followed by his father’s Illinois at 9/4. The best of the British raiders appears to be Ralph Beckett’s Amiloc at 7/2 with 8/1 bar. An outsider with a chance is Paddy Twomey’s Carmers at 10/1 if he misses the English equivalent on Saturday.
The St Leger across the channel is being run at Doncaster on Saturday with eight runners confirmed, five of them trained in Ireland. Paddy Twomey trains Carmers, 9/2, who is third favourite behind the Ballydoyle pair Scandinavia, 1/1, and Lambourn, 11/4. Aidan O’Brien backs up his hand with Stay True, 8/1, and Sartoga, 100/1. Furthur, trained by Andrew Balding, is the best of the home team in the betting at 11/1 with 25/1 bar five.
Upcoming meetings
Racing this evening (Thursday) is in Powerstown Park, Clonmel, Co Tipperary, with a flat card starting at 3.27 pm. Tomorrow evening there is a national card in the west at Ballinrobe away at 3.55 pm, and on Saturday, the
Tom Red
first day of Champions Weekend is in Leopardstown with two Group 1 races – The Matron Stakes for fillies and the Irish Champion Stakes – backed up with two Group 2 and one Group 3 races, stalls for the first opening at 2.15 pm.
The second card of the weekend is in The Curragh on Sunday and features four Group 1 races – The Irish St Leger, The Flying Five Stakes, The Moyglare Stud Stakes and National Stakes – with one Group 2 race, card starting at 1.30 pm. There is no racing on Monday.
Television coverage this evening is from Doncaster for the next four days, with ITV covering five races today including two Group 2 races, another six races tomorrow including one Group 2 race, five more races on Saturday including the St Leger and two Group 2 races, and five on Sunday including a Group 3 race. They are also covering two races from Chester on Saturday and the four Group 1 races from The Curragh on Sunday. RTE 2 is covering racing from both Leopardstown on Saturday and the Curragh on Sunday.
Racing news
Yesterday, there was no racing in Britain due to the proposed Government imposition of taxes on
racing. The stoppage by the industry is voluntary and even the punters bible, The Racing Post, carried a Black front page in support of the industry. The strike was held in conjunction with a protest held by the industry at Westminster.
With Wayne Lordan losing his appeal, and Ryan Moore out injured, O’Brien’s riding arrangements are not known, but with French-based jockey Christophe Soumillon available, it is difficult to assess his runners until riding arrangements are declared. Also reported available are Dylan Browne McMonagle, William Buick, Colin Keane, and Jack Cleary, the stable’s 5lb claimer.
The point-to-point jockey and trainer Mikey O’Connor passed away on Thursday after taking ill while working in his yard in Liscarroll, Co Cork. Mikey was only 44 and stands
€200k for new Boyle Celtic facilities
Boyle Celtic FC is proud to announce the development of a dedicated multi-purpose community function room as part of ‘The Celtic Community HUB’, following the approval of €200,000 in LEADER funding.
This vital investment will significantly enhance the social, cultural, and civic life of Boyle and the wider north Roscommon region.
The state-of-the-art facility, which will be constructed as an extension to the club’s existing clubhouse, will provide a much-needed venue for meetings, social gatherings, educational events, and civic activities – serving not just club members, but the entire community.
“It’s about giving the people of Boyle – from young people to active age groups, from local
schools to new arrivals in the community – a place to gather, connect, learn, and celebrate.
It’s an investment in inclusion, resilience, and rural regeneration,” said Tomás Beades, Operations Manager of Roscommon LEADER Partnership.
Tomás thanked in particular Mark Keaveney and Cathriona MacCarthy from Roscommon County Council for their support for the project.
The room will be fully digitally enabled, featuring high-speed broadband, a large display hub, and modern infrastructure, making it suitable for a wide range of community and private uses.
“This is a game-changer for our club and the wider Boyle community,” said Aaron O’Connor, Club Chairperson, Boyle
Late rally can’t rescue Buccaneers!
Sligo in their Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League game played at Hamilton Park, Strandhill, on Saturday. The midlanders allowed Sligo ease to a 28-0 lead after 50 minutes before they finally galvanised themselves. Although scoring four tries in the final half hour, the Pirates ran out of
to play Galwegians in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League and Senior Seconds Cup respectively. The league match kicks off at 2.30 pm and is preceded by the cup tie at 12 noon with both matches taking place at Crowley Park.
Buccaneers Women’s team travel to Ballinrobe in Round 2 of the Women’s Invitational Cup. Kick-off at the Co Mayo venue is 1.30 pm on
Sunday. MINIS: Coaching for Buccaneers Minis commenced for the coming season on Sunday. Players and their parents are reminded that the starting time is now a little earlier than last season with the sessions beginning at 10 am on Sunday mornings. New players including beginners are welcome to come along and give rugby a try.
U-15s: Buccaneers U-15s opened the youths season with a 29-5 win on the magnificent AstroTurf pitch in Longford RFC.
fifth in the all-time list of point-to-point winning jockeys with 429 winners – he also rode 90 winners under rules. He trained 27 point-to-point winners and 21 on the track. May he rest in peace.
Competition corner
This week is the first chance to win tickets for Roscommon’s meeting on September 29th – to enter, answer this question: What is the flat race in Australia described as the one ‘that stops a nation’?
Answers as usual should be made via postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon, or by email to tomred17@gmail.com by 5 pm on September 24th. 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.
In the recent shield final of the Hollywood Bar
Sean Fleming defeated Mark
6-3 after an entertaining decider. Roscommon Darts wishes to thank all the players who competed, producing such a high standard of darts in the process. Many thanks also to all those who marked games and to
Darts Summer League,
Concannon
Celtic FC.
Race-goers enjoying a recent meeting of Roscommon Races. Photo: Colin Gillen, Framelight Studio Productions
Pictured are: Niall O’Donohoe (Boyle Celtic FC), Cathriona MacCarthy (Roscommon County Council), Aaron O’Connor (Boyle Celtic FC), Tomás Beades (Operations Manager of Roscommon LEADER Partnership), Leanne Connolly (Boyle Celtic FC), and Sharon Shally (Roscommon County Council)
Runner-up Mark Concannon pictured with winner, Sean Fleming.
SportsPeople
ROSCOMMON
SENIOR MEN: Overall winner in the recent outing in Co Meath was John Earley with 78 pts. Cat. 1: Seamus Byrne (71 pts); Cat. 2: Eugene Finneran (74 pts); Cat. 3: Pat Finneran (72 pts); Cat. 4: Tommy Murphy (72 pts).
Best score at Co Meath course (excluding above winners): Declan Browne with 37 pts. Best score at Knightsbrook course (excluding the above winners): Ollie Dempsey (39 pts).
Thursday, September 4th. Winner was Michael Sharkey with 38 pts. Cat. 1: Terry Benson (35 pts); Cat. 2: Charlie McDonnell (36 pts); Cat. 3: Tommie Gilleran (35 pts); Cat 4: Maurice Buckley (37 pts).
SENIOR LADIES: Thursday, September 4th. 1st: Margaret Brennan (18 pts); 2nd: Martina Brennan (18 pts); 3rd: Teresa Duke (18 pts); 4th: Detta Cox (18 pts); 5th: Jane Hunt (17 pts).
LADIES: 18-hole overall winner was Serena O’Farrell (41 pts). Cat. 1: Annie Timothy (39 pts); Cat. 2: Bernie Maher (33 pts). 9-hole overall winner was Nuala Hughes with 18 pts. Cat. 1: Monica Lennon (16 pts); Cat. 2: Teresa Duke (17 pts).
The Masters Final sponsored by Sandra BlackKelly takes place this Saturday, September 13th with the top 18 ladies playing an 18-hole stroke competition.
MEN: Open Friday results. 1st: Gerard Broderick (39 pts). 2nd: Francie Noone (37 pts). Overall winner of Sunday’s 18-hole competition sponsored by UNIO was Enda Daly (66 pts). Cat. 1: Darren Mears (68 pts); Cat. 2: David Flynn (69 pts); Cat. 3: Padraig Dervin (69 pts).
Short putts
The open Fridays continue this week. This Sunday’s competition is an 18 Stableford sponsored by Down the Hatch. TEAMS: Hard luck to our Connacht Shield team who were beaten by Portumna last Sunday. The Jack O’Sullivan team play Mulranny in the Connacht final in Athlone on Sunday, September 21st.
Congratulations to Sinead Benedetti who played for Ireland in the Women’s Senior Championships in Spain last week.
Nevin nets four as Boyle hit seven
RDFL round-up
Last weekend saw the start of the new Roscommon & District Football League season. Only the Premier Division and Division 1 saw action with the remaining three divisions coming into play over the next two weekends.
Premier Division champions St John’s Athletic took on newly-promoted Dunmore Town at Lecarrow. While the champions picked up all three points it was far from easy as Dunmore Town showed they can compete despite it being their first ever season in the Premier Division. Jamie
Tiernan took up where he left off last season, scoring both goals for St John’s Athletic, winners by 2-0.
Moore United started this season’s campaign with a 7-3 win over Shiven Rovers at the League grounds, Lecarrow. Charles Nevin scored four and Jay McPhilbin added two more and Jack Nevin one for the winners with Franco Lopez, Keith Murphy and Stephen Murray replying for Shiven. Boyle Celtic started their campaign with a 4-1 home win over newlypromoted Skyvalley Rovers. Michael Corrigan netted twice, the second a penalty. The Boyle Celtic ‘keeper made two really good saves to deny the
Taughmaconnell side and then with just over 20 minutes to play Shane Battles made it 3-0. Dean Casey made it four before Eoin Keogh won a penalty for Skyvalley Rovers which was converted by Gary Canavan.
Castlerea Celtic’s first league game of the season didn’t go to plan at home to a strong Ballymoe side. With 27 minutes played Damien Goggins scored a brilliant goal against the run of play and Jack Donnellan added a second for Ballymoe shortly afterwards. Castlerea dominated the second half with Dominic Bligh scoring from about 25 metres on 70 minutes. Jack Higgins and Oisin O’Farrell both rattled the
Ballymoe crossbar. The home side were a bit unlucky not to get an equaliser but on a positive note it was great to see academy players Yani Chiforiuc and Conor Larkin making their debut for the senior team.
In Division 1 Moylough ‘79 lost at home to St John’s Athletic. The home side, who were short a few regulars, were 2-0 down before Marcus Finn pulled a goal back. Charlie O’Beirne converted a free-kick early in the first half, Conor Murphy scoring the second with a fine volley. Finn’s goal gave the home side hope, but despite pressing, an equaliser eluded Moylough. Ballinasloe Town started off on a
winning note when they beat Cloonfad United 4-2 at home. Conor Dowd gave the home side a 1-0 lead after only two minutes. Cian Naughton added two more and Cameron O’Leary converted a penalty. Callum Cleary and Frank Ronayne replied for Cloonfad United. League newcomers Ballinahown travelled all the way to Ballaghaderreen and were rewarded with a 2-0 win. Overall it was a very good game with the Ballinahown side worthy winners. Oisin O’Reilly struck after 37 minutes and added a second goal two minutes later to secure all three points for the visitors. The CP Ajax v Kilkerrin United game was postponed.
(News from local golf clubs)
Deputy Martin Daly (extreme left) presents the Luke Daly Perpetual Trophy to Eddie Keane’s team, winners of the recent Creggs RFC Golf Classic at Roscommon Golf Club. Left to right: Dr Martin Daly, Eddie Keane, Andrew Prior, Seamus Fallon and Jackie Dempsey.
Ballaghaderreen Golf Club was delighted to recently present Mayo-Roscommon Hospice with a cheque for €1,250, the proceeds of fundraising conducted during recent club events. Left to right: Mick Towey, Henry Greevy, Eithne McGarry, Kathleen Rushe (Mayo-Roscommon Hospice), Anne O’Brien, Jo Connolly (Mayo-Roscommon Hospice), Gerry Cooney, Helen Curran.
The Town (Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)
association with the
Congratulations to Roscommon Town 1 U-16s, Cup winners 2025 following their victory over St John’s Athletic.
Congratulations to Roscommon Town 1 U-12s, who are Shield winners 2025, after their victory over Castlerea Celtic.
SportsPeople
St Dominic’s still have new title tilt in sights
Kepak Roscommon SHC quarter-final St Dominic’s 3-20 Athleague 1-12
< SEAMUS DUKE
It may have taken a while for St Dominic’s to get going in this year’s championship, but once they opened up in the second half in their quarterfinal against Athleague last Sunday, there were signs that Thady Beirne’s charges may be capable of going one step further than last year (when they were beaten finalists).
Of course there is a lot of hurling to be played yet, and Oran will fancy their chances too in the upcoming semi-final. But St Dominic’s were certainly very impressive late on last Sunday as they swatted aside the challenge of Athleague to win by a convincing 14 points.
In what was a lively contest, Athleague played with the aid of the strong wind in the opening half. St Dominic’s looked dangerous up front from the outset, with Jack Lohan, Naos Connaughton and Ruairi Kilcline all prominent.
After 22 minutes St Dominic’s led
by 0-8 to 0-4, five different players having scored for them. Cormac Kelly had put over two excellent points for Athleague, Ben McGahon adding two pointed frees.
In the run-up to half-time the intensity levels increased. Ben McGahon and Cian Murray pointed for Athleague to reduce the margin to just two. Then, three minutes before the break Cian Murray showed a clean pair of heels to his marker before beating Mark Miley with a low shot to put Athleague ahead for the only time in the game.
On the stroke of half-time St Dominic’s worked the ball to Ruairi Kilcline who made no mistake for a well-taken goal. At the break St Dominic’s led by 1-9 to 1-7.
While Dominic’s were playing the better hurling and looking more threatening up front, they were at this point struggling to pull away from Athleague. Indeed their total of 15 wides over the course of the game will be a worry for them.
With 10 minutes to go there was
just three between the sides (1-14 to 1-11). Ruairi Kilcline then eased any St Dominic’s worries with a second goal (in the 52nd minute) and they never looked back after that. In fact in the final eight minutes the winners outscored their opponents by 2-6 to 0-1.
In the second minute of injury-time Naos Connaughton blasted a free to the Athleague net when most people present were probably expecting him to settle for a point.
In the end it was easy for Dominic’s, but they will have to reset and go again against Oran and will need to play at least as well as they did in the final quarter last Sunday if they are to make it to another final.
Mark Miley, Micheal Byrne, Jack Lohan, Naos Connaughgton and Ruairi Kilcline were outstanding on the day for St Dominic’s. For Athleague, Darragh Heavey, Colin Murray, Cormac Kelly and Cian Murray were most prominent.
St Dominic’s: Mark Miley (0-1, free); Ronan Kilcline, Mike Feeley, Ethan Connaughton; Nathan O’Connor, Micheal Byrne, Jason Martin; Connell Kennelly, Mikey Moran; Colm Lyons (0-1), Jack Lohan (0-1), Ruairi
Gavin Staunton (0-1),
Connaughton (1-9, 1-6 frees,
Mickey Joe Egan (0-2). Subs: Noel Watson (0-1) for Lyons (50), Pauric Halpin for Kennelly (50), Barry Killion for Egan (55), Sean Kilcline (0-1) for Ronan Kilcline (58), Declan Dowling for O’Connor (59).
Athleague: Niall Connolly; Alan Moore, Darragh Heavey, David Delaney; Colin Murray (0-1), Naoise Coyle, Thomas Clayton;
Classy Canning quells Gaels
< SEAMUS DUKE
Padraig Pearses can justifiably claim to be the most improved team in this year’s senior hurling championship. Indeed their display against Roscommon Gaels in this opening quarter-final in Ballyforan last Sunday very much supports any such assertion. Pearses more than held their own in the opening half against the strong breeze, and when they opened up in the
second half they pulled away to win comfortably.
However it must be said too that Roscommon Gaels were very flat on the day. They never got going at all, especially in attack, and their return of only three points from play over the course of the game tells its own story.
Pearses had some excellent performers, none more so that Sean Canning, who once again turned in an outstanding display. He scored 0-11
and also set up the only goal of the game for Matthew Comerford with a piece of magic that was a delight to behold.
Darragh Finn also had an excellent match for Pearses as did Ronan Finn, Karl Feehily and Matthew Comerford.
The bottom line was that the town team had no one to subdue the influence of Canning and he was the difference between the sides in the end.
On a breezy and showery day the
Gaels had the elements at their back in the opening half. It was a low-key affair early on, with precious little excitement for spectators. Pearses had points from Canning, Matthew Comerford, Darragh Finn and Eoin Canning while the Gaels were totally reliant on the free-taking prowess of Finn Killion. The sides were level at 0-4 apiece after 20 minutes.
Three points on the spin for Canning (all frees) saw Pearses open up a threepoint gap, but by half-time there was just a point between them as Killion and DJ Hession pointed to leave the score at the break at Padraig Pearses 0-7 Roscommon Gaels 0-6.
With the elements in their favour, Pearses were on top from the start of the second half. Four unanswered points from Canning (two frees) opened up a five-point gap within eight minutes.
In the 39th minute Finn Killion was fouled in the large square and referee Francie Kelly awarded the penalty. The Gaels brought goalkeeper Brandan Quinn forward to take it, but his low shot was well saved by Liam Creaton – and in truth Roscommon Gaels’ chances of winning were gone after that.
Ronan O’Meara’s men battled away after that but Pearses could always keep them at arm’s length. In the 51st minute Sean Canning was once again the creator with a superb dummy and pick up. He drew the defence and flicked to Comerford who made no mistake for the only goal of the game.
Referee: Aaron Clogher. Man of the Match Ruairi Kilcline (St Dominic’s)
Canning finished the scoring with three more points as Pearses pulled away in the final few minutes.
Having lost to the Gaels on both occasions that they’ve met in the championship over the past two years, this win was sweet revenge for Pearses. But they will know that they face a huge challenge on Sunday next against old rivals Four Roads. The rate of improvement in this Pearses team will certainly be tested there and their wides total of 17 last weekend is something that they will have to address.
Padraig Pearses: Liam Creavin; Eoghan Costello, Luke Corbett, Joey Kelly; James Burke, Karl Feehily, Ronan Finn; Darragh Finn (0-2), Thomas Carey; Eoin Canning (02), Sean Canning (0-11, 7 frees), Daniel Staunton; Keelan Ryan, Jamie Donoghue, Matthew Comerford (1-1).
Subs: Dylan Ryan for Staunton (52), David Loughnane for Ryan (56).
Roscommon Gaels: Brendan Quinn; Luca Cormican, David Hough, Kevin Glynn; Dean Conlon, Orin Walsh, Diarmuid Mulry; DJ Hession (0-1), Liam Naughton; Eoin Kiernan, Ciaran Mulry, Kieran Coyle; Conor Grogan, Richard Walsh, Finn Killion (0-8, 6 frees). Subs: Dylan Hanley for Coyle (28), Matthew Finneran for Grogan (41), Tom Beisty for Naughten (47), Eoghan Keaveney for Conlon (51), Lochlainn Mulry for Kiernan (56), Gerry Clogher for Hession
Referee: Francie Kelly.
Man of the Match
Sean Canning (Padraig Pearses)
Kilcline (2-3);
Naos
3 ‘65s),
Ben McGahon (0-4, frees), Tadhg Lyons (0-1); Cormac Kelly (0-2), Cathal Crehan (0-2), Cian Murray (1-1); Daniel McCormack, Eoghan Coyle (0-1), Jack McGahon. Subs: David Flaherty for McCormack (h/t), Stephen Kilcommins for Delaney (54), Mossy Connaughton for Crehan (58).
(58).
Naos Connaughton… contributed 1-9 for St Dominic’s against Athleague in last Sunday’s Roscommon SHC quarter-final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Sean Canning of Padraig Pearses caused numerous problems for Roscommon Gaels last weekend. (File photo from a meeting between the clubs earlier in the season). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
St Barry’s are U-19 league champions
< KEVIN EGAN
St Barry’s confirmed their status as the coming force in Roscommon ladies football when they dethroned St Dominic’s in the Family Care Practice U-19 League Division One final last Thursday evening in Kilbride. It took 80 minutes to separate the teams in a thrilling encounter between two rising powers in the county.
No score for the first nine minutes quickly gave way to a free-scoring encounter. Dominic’s found the net in the first half through Katelyn Egan, but three St Barry’s goals from Erin Hagan, Gaby Compton and Player of the Match and captain Erica Jordan left the Tarmonbarry side in the driving seat going into the closing stages with a 3-8 to 1-9 lead.
A couple of top-drawer saves from Rebecca Clarke had kept St Dominic’s within striking range. And strike they did, with two points either side of a superb goal from Mia Kilcline forcing extra-time.
The exertion involved in drawing level proved to be too much for the 2024 champions however, as St Barry’s pushed on to win by 4-12 to 2-13.
Holly Rogers added the fourth goal for a side that had ten different scorers on the night, all contributing to a fantastic team victory. The return to action of Millie Hagan after a long-term injury was a further boost to the club, who will hope to push on from this to challenge for the Intermediate Championship in the coming weeks.
Division Two final
The Division Two final was played at Woodmount following a toss of a coin for home advantage, with Pádraig Pearses going on to record a 5-15 to 2-11 win over St Brigid’s in front of their home supporters.
Despite missing starting midfielder Sarah Dineen to injury, an early Laura Glennon goal gave Pearses a slight edge, boosted further by Jennifer Downey finding the net to make it 2-6 to 0-7 at the break.
The key period was immediately after half-time when Pearses hit three goals in as many minutes. Downey was pulled down to allow Glennon to score the first of the three from the penalty spot, Esme Halpin added a second before
Glennon completed her hat-trick to leave St Brigid’s with far too much to do, crowning an incredible individual performance from the Pearses fullforward.
Goalkeeper Lily Finneran made a handful of fine saves to keep St Brigid’s at bay with Katie Canning performing strongly at midfield to ensure a steady flow of possession, and while centreforward Alison Nugent was the leading light in a St Brigid’s side that continued to battle right up until the end, they struggled to break past a powerful Pádraig Pearses full-back line at any stage.
Division Three final
The Division Three Final, played at the Abbey Park, will have to be replayed after St Croan’s came from behind to secure a 3-7 to 1-13 draw against Boyle.
Aoife Kiernan’s goal helped Boyle to lead by five points at half-time (1-9 to 1-4) while Katie Conroy, Amy O’Donoghue and Gemma Moran all fared well for the home side.
Róisín Conneely’s superb goal in the second half was the key score as St Croan’s twice fought back from five points down to ensure a share of the spoils and a rematch, with a lack of light ruling out extra-time.
Finely poised with one round of IFC to go
The big game next Sunday in the final round of group games in the Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant Intermediate Championship will be the all-west meeting of Michael Glaveys and St Croan’s in Ballinlough, where the home side will need to win while St Croan’s will require at least a draw to be sure of their place in the semi-finals.
Both sides fell just short in good games against the table-toppers at the weekend, with Glaveys in particular taking a lot from their 3-9 to 4-11 defeat to highflying Pádraig Pearses.
Lorraine Kenny and Sarah Dooley found the net to establish an early sevenpoint lead for the visitors and that was out to 4-7 to 2-4 by half-time thanks to two more goals from Kenny, extended even further by 1-1 from Laura Glennon after half-time while Áine Ryan was off the field on a yellow card.
The woodwork and some outstanding goalkeeping from LGFA Golden Gloves winner Helena Cummins prevented any further goals while Sheila Brady and Niamh Fleming chipped away at the lead with scores for the wind-assisted home side. However the Róisín O’Sullivanled Pearses defence held firm to make it
four wins from four starts for last year’s Junior champions.
St Barry’s also confirmed their place in the last four with a 3-11 to 1-9 win over St Croan’s at Enfield. The home side had the wind in the first half and led for most of that 30 minutes, with Sinéad Kenny and Anna Gooney leading the attack.
Orlaigh Tighe and Aisling Tarmey traded goals but a 1-6 to 1-5 interval lead was unlikely to be enough for St Croan’s given the strength of the breeze, and so it proved as two goals in a minute from Edel Beirne and Cara Cox sent St Barry’s on the road to victory.
With Kilbride racking up a big win over Western Gaels to boost their scoring difference, the results leave everything finely poised in advance of next Sunday.
Kilbride will travel to St Barry’s needing a win to be sure of extending their season, but a defeat won’t be fatal to their chances if St Croan’s overcome Michael Glaveys.
Junior B set for knockout rounds
In the Castlerea Vehicle Recycling Junior B/C Championship Roscommon Gaels extended their run of wins with a 2-10 to 0-1 victory over Michael Glaveys on a tough day for the club, many of the
players having been in attendance as club member Liam Dunne (RIP) was laid to rest that morning.
Megan Donoghue, Karen Kennedy, Zara Fallon and Grace Geraghty were among the stars for the Gaels, who will now go straight to a semi-final. Strokestown and Clann na nGael are also into the knockout stages on foot of Clann’s 5-10 to 2-6 win over St Ciarán’s.
Kilbride recorded a minor upset to secure top spot in Group B, Siobhán Martin and Sinéad Clabby’s first-half goals the key scores in a 2-4 to 0-7 win over St Michael’s/St Ronan’s. Danielle Gannon kicked 0-6 (five frees) for the Saints on what was a really tough day for forwards in Kilbride.
St Michael’s/St Ronan’s will now play Clann while Strokestown will take on Shannon Gaels, who retained third spot despite losing out to Pádraig Pearses in an entertaining 4-12 to 3-10 contest in Woodmount on Saturday evening.
Please see http://roscommonlgfa.ie/ fixtures-2025 for all updated fixtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank Dermot Hughes Cars, Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant, Leydon Brothers, Castlerea Vehicle Recycling and Family Care Practice for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county.
Pádraig Pearses, winners of the Family Care Practice U-19 Division Two League.
St Barry’s, winners of the Family Care Practice U-19 Division One League.
Ciara Byrne and Emma Duggan (Boyle) and Natasha O’Rourke and Róisín Conneely (St Croan’s) with referee Vivian Hardiman pictured before the Family Care Practice U-19 Division Three League final at Abbey Park last Thursday.
LGFA update
Flying Finnerty seals deal for Elphin
Elphin, who lost their first two 2025 SFC games, and then won their last two, continued their recovery and momentum surge with a 2-20 to 1-14 win over North Roscommon in Boyle last Sunday.
Elphin maintained their improved form in a win last weekend which was primarily built on a good second-half performance.
Elphin were sharper all through and had an attacking ace in John Finnerty, who scored 2-5. North Roscommon battled well all the way but in the final analysis the jury is out on the future of the amalgamated side playing just one game without a divisional championship being played. That’s an argument for another day.
Finnerty rattled home a fine goal in the 18th minute, and at half-time Elphin led
by 1-7 to 0-6. Then in the early minutes of the second half there was an exchange of points between the teams before Finnerty got in for his second goal in the 38th minute, a score that ensured Elphin were comfortable from that stage on. North Roscommon never gave up the fight of course, Evan Corcoran impressive up front for them, and Adam Dwyer scoring a fine goal with 10 minutes to go, by which time Nigel Dineen’s men were in no danger of not advancing to the last eight.
In the relegation play-off in Ballinlough there was an extraordinary finish to the match when Castlerea St Kevin’s came back from the dead to record a stunning victory against Western Gaels (0-14 to 1-9), a win which preserves the former club’s senior status for 2026.
Ten minutes into the second half Cathal Cregg’s goal saw the Gaels go five points clear. Furthermore, Castlerea were down to 14 men at this point in the game after John Curran had been redcarded.
Led by the inspirational Adam McDermott, Castlerea responded to a gloomy outlook quite brilliantly. The talented attacker scored no less than seven points (including a couple of two-pointers) in the final 10 minutes to rescue his side in the most dramatic fashion.
The result means that Western Gaels have one more chance to avoid relegation as they will now face St Dominic’s on Friday week (September 19th) with the losers of that match going down to intermediate level in 2026.
Cummins and Tyrrell collect Golden Glove and Golden Boot awards
Roscommon goalkeeper Helena Cummins is the winner of the 2025 ZuCar Golden Glove award. Helena’s brilliant save to deny Fermanagh’s Joanne Doonan in the group stages of the TG4 AllIreland Intermediate Championship won the popular vote on the Ladies Gaelic Football Association website.
Helena, from the Michael Glaveys club, was one of five nominees for the prestigious individual honour, along with Eimear Barry (Laois), Robyn Murray (Meath), Dearbhla Gower (Donegal) and Clare Friel (Donegal).
Over 4,600 votes were submitted for the Golden Glove award and Helena’s save accounted for 1,605, clear of her nearest challenger, Laois netminder Eimear Barry (1,227), who was a previous winner of the award (in 2022).
Helena was presented with her award at Croke Park last week by Ladies Gaelic Football Association
President, Trina Murray, and Gavin Hydes, CEO, Joe Duffy Group, on behalf of ZuCar, the LGFA’s Official Performance Partner and sponsor of the All-Ireland U-18 Championships.
Following the conclusion of the TG4 All-Ireland Championships, Dublin’s Hannah Tyrrell was the leading scorer across the Junior, Intermediate and Senior grades.
Hannah’s tally of 6-28 for the TG4 All-Ireland Senior champions ensured that the Na Fianna player
topped the individual scoring charts across the Junior, Intermediate and Senior grades in the All-Ireland
series. Hannah was also present at Croke Park last week to collect her award.
Creggs and Shannon Gaels face off
< SEAMUS DUKE
In the Ward Brothers Roscommon IFC preliminary quarter-final in Castlerea this Saturday, Shannon Gaels take on Creggs (4 pm). Neither side have set the world on fire so far in the championship this season, but they look evenly matched, with a close contest in prospect. Shannon Gaels lost to St Brigid’s and Strokestown before squeezing past Kilbride in their final group game. They depend a lot on the talented Evan
Corcoran up front. Corcoran was prominent for North Roscommon as they went down to Elphin in the senior championship last Sunday. Creggs had a big win against St Barry’s but then followed that up with a surprising defeat against St Michael’s. In their final game they went down narrowly to a fancied Tulsk side, so their form is a bit on the inconsistent side.
There’s unlikely to be a lot between them – however Creggs look to have more firepower and they are the choice to win by three or four points.
Cormac McNally of Roscommon LGFA presents the U-19 Division Two trophy to Pearses captain Kate Moore.
Dr Elizabeth McSharry from Family Care Practice with victorious St Barry’s captain Erica Jordan after St Barry’s won the Family Care Practice U-19 Division One League.
Nessan Lenehan (pictured in action earlier this season against Western Gaels) got on the scoreboard for Elphin against North Roscommon last weekend. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Dublin star Hannah Tyrrell, 2025 ZuCar Golden Boot award winner, second from left, and Roscommon goalkeeper Helena Cummins, 2025 ZuCar Golden Glove award winner, are presented with their awards by Gavin Hydes, CEO, Joe Duffy Group and LGFA President Trina Murray at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
