Roscommon People - 18 September 2026 by RossiePeople

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18 September 2026

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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TraceyComer-Burke PAUL HEALY in conversation with drama enthusiast Tracey, who is PRO of Glenamaddy Players, also PRO of Glenamaddy Theatre Festival, and also PRO of Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre! Describe your childhood in three words… Fun, busy, crisps. If you were Taoiseach, what’s the first positive change you’d like to make? Make it easier for people to get planning for one-off houses in rural Ireland! What makes you happy? To see my kids laugh. Life is busy but to hear that giggle makes it all worthwhile! Favourite social media app and why? Instagram all the way for myself, I run ﬁve pages… however for the Drama, Facebook gets more interaction! What is your favourite sport? Soccer of late… ﬁrst game with Glen Celtic Senior Ladies this weekend! An alien arrives from space. Describe Glenamaddy to them in three words… Roads, Drama, SuperValu.

Cost is no issue… where would you like to holiday for a fortnight? Nashville… I turned 40 last year and had an idea to go there but we decided in the end to go to New York, the best trip! So someday Nashville… maybe for my 50th!

wonder will I get selected this weekend… if not, I will be there to cheer my team on.

What is your best quality? I feel I’m an outgoing person!

What is a special memory? The moment this year when Glenamaddy Players were crowned All-Ireland Conﬁned Drama winners. The atmosphere and excitement is something I will never forget. It really did feel so special.

A personal goal? Some day to get ‘Interiors by TCB’* off the ground! *Instagram plug!

What has Glenamaddy Players got coming up? Autumn show ‘Play On!’ by Rick Abbott is on Fri 2nd, Sat 3rd, Sun 4th, Fri

Which famous person would you least like to be stuck in a lift with? Conor McGregor.

A song, film or book that you will never forget? Film – The Green Mile – the best by far!

Glenamaddy Players had an amazing year. Remind us… 2026 will be one to remember for years to come! We won the AllIreland Conﬁned Drama Finals after 54 years! It was amazing to be part of this and I loved every bit of the PRO work required at such an exciting time!

9th & Sat 10th of October in Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre. Booking via Eventbrite. Opens Friday 18th of September (see page 22). Also, our 2027 circuit show (the ﬁrst one in the open section) will be revealed soon… WATCH THIS SPACE! What has life taught you? Live each day as if it’s your last. Things can change so fast. Don’t sweat the small things – and go see live theatre!

Tracey Comer-Burke

Someone who has been a big influence on you? My husband David… cheesy I know, but I always look up to him for advice, etc. You have to spend one week on a desert island with an Irish celebrity. Who is it? Celebrity chef Edward Hayden – it would be some craic, and he can do all the cooking! What skill/talent that you don’t feel you possess would you like to have? I’d like to have more skill at soccer. On that note, I

Coman Keaveny (Director) celebrating Glenamaddy Players’ All-Ireland win in April. Photo: Donal Healy Photography

Don’t sweat the small things – and go see live theatre

It’s been a GOOD week for… Irish golfer Shane Lowry, who coasted to victory in the Amgen Irish Open, winning the tournament by eleven shots in a welcome return to form The campaign for a United Ireland, with US President Donald Trump declaring his support for Irish unity during his visit here last weekend

It’s been a BAD week for… The general public, with interest rates being increased and energy prices continuing to rise

PIC OF THE WEEK: Boyle U-8s having fun at the Roscommon LGFA Senior Championship quarter-final between Boyle and St Ciarán’s at Abbey Park last Sunday. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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Biggest ever International Pike Festival takes place this month on Lough Ree It has been announced that the 2026 Lough Ree International Pike angling festival, on the full body of the lake, will have its largest field of competitors yet – with an additional prize fund added to make it one of the most lucrative events in Europe this year for pike anglers. The event, previously known as the Pike Classic, is now rebranded as the ‘King of the Lake International Pike Festival’, after supports from Fáilte Ireland, Roscommon County Council, Longford County Council , Ciaran Mullooly MEP, and Inland Fisheries Ireland. The festival will open with an official launch in Ballyleague on Friday, September 24th, to be followed by two days of competitive fishing on the entire lake of Lough Ree between the Bypass Bridge in Athlone and the lock at Tarmonbarry in Roscommon as the search for the 2026 ‘King of the Lake’ begins. The prize fund has also been extended to over €13,000, with new sponsors coming on board, more cash prizes, and the opportunity to win a prestigious International title. “We are delighted with the huge entry for the competition”, said Philip Gordon of Lough Ree Angling Hub. “This is what pike anglers have been looking for. It’s a vast lake from Athlone town to Tarmonbarry, but hundreds of anglers from all over Ireland and abroad want to come here and compete so from now on, there will be no frontiers.” The Lough Ree Angling Hub has also paid tribute to Roscommon and

Longford county councils and MidlandsNorth-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly for their additional support for the festival this year. “We have been supported to promote the festival as one of Ireland’s finest events – and that’s what it is” said Philip. This year’s festival begins with a launch event on Friday, September 24th, in Ballyleague. Competitors will be able to moor their boats safely and successfully at the Waterways Ireland marina in Ballyleague overnight on Saturday night, September 25th, as there will be a professional security firm in attendance at the venue. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, competitors can launch their boat from either the old harbour slipway in Lanesborough (just south of the duck pond) or from the Waterways Ireland marina in Ballyleague, but each competitor must come to the marina in Ballyleague to collect their pack and measuring board, as well as the very latest edition of the rules. The entry fee is €200 per boat, with just four rods allowed on each boat. A full copy of the rules and details of registration is available from Laith, the festival officer administrator, at loughreeanglinghub@gmail.com. To enter, call Joe on 086 8623838 or email Laith at loughreeanglinghub@ gmail.com. Special thanks has been paid this year Frank Casey and the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club for their support in assisting in the safe running of the festival.

King of the Lake organisers Philip Gordon, Joe McDermott, and Laith pictured with the sponsors of this year’s festival: Cllr Mark Casey (Longford County Council), Cllr Larry Brennan (Roscommon County Council), and Ciaran Mullooly MEP. Pic: Syl Healy

Ciaran Mullooly MEP Always here to help you E mail: ciaran.mullooly@europarl.europa.eu Constituency Office 04333 21734 Ballyleague Office open: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm. Phone: 043 332 1734 Pictured are Cllr Mark Casey (Longford County Council) and Cllr Larry Brennan (Roscommon County Council). Pic: Syl Healy

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY. WEEKLY CLINIC EVERY THURSDAY At The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302

Reconnection and recollection of Bord na Mona and ESB Saturday week, September 26th, will prove to be a powerful day (pardon the pun) in the community, as former workers and their families are welcomed back to Lanesboro for a Bord na Mona and ESB Reconnection and Recollection Day. The committee has been gathering memories of past glory days and all will be on display in the parish hall. Former workers and their families and students of the local primary schools of Lanesboro, Fermoyle, Cloontuskert, Ballyleague, Ballagh, Curraghroe, Cloontagh and Lanesboro Community College (formerly Lanesboro Vocational School) of BnM and ESB that lived and

gave so much to the community and the wider area will be welcomed to meet and catch up with former workers or indeed former schoolmates. Many apprentices in the community were also welcomed and housed as they completed their training at Lanesboro Vocation School, now Lanesboro Community College, and they are welcomed back to relive their memories in Lanesboro. Lanesboro, Ballyleague, and the surrounding communities feel very fortunate to have BnM and ESB power station in the community, and equally

newsbriefs Roscommon Garden Club resumes The Roscommon Garden Club will resume at 8 pm on Monday, September 28th, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. The upcoming meeting will see Jules and Dave from Esker Farm deliver a talk on bulbs. Membership is €30 for the year and admission is €10 per night for non-members. All are welcome to come along!

Regari College Wellbeing Workshops Regari Recovery College Wellbeing Workshops will be held during Autumn/Winter. On September 22nd, the topic will be: ‘Building Healthy Boundaries’. The location is Roscommon Town Library. Contact 087 9684352 for more information.

Roscommon SPCA collection in Boyle The Roscommon society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (Roscommon SPCA) will be holding a door collection in Boyle for one day only on Friday, September 25th. The collection will be held at the following premises in Boyle: SuperValu, Cooney’s Garage, and Motor Works Garage. The Roscommon SPCA is run completely by volunteers, who give up their free time to fundraise and work tirelessly each weekend to gather enough funds to cover bills. Any and all support is greatly appreciated, with every donation, big or small, going directly towards animal welfare in the county.

fortunate in the calibre of people that came to work and live, who are still fondly remembered to this day. It is amazing that people from all over the country that came from the very outset are still being quoted and mentioned with a great fondness and respect. There is a general and wide invitation to everyone and their families to visit the hall between 10 am and 4 pm and enjoy the company of former workers and old friends. This is a wonderful opportunity for everybody to come to the hall for the exhibition and welcome the people back to the community.

Claire Feeley from Roscommon pictured with daughters Rachel (8) and Ruth (16) at RTÉ Lyric FM’s Marty in the Evening with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at the Bord Gais Theatre. Pic: Andres Poveda

Free neurological Information Fair in Roscommon People living with MS and other neurological conditions are being invited to a free Information Fair in Roscommon later this month. The event takes place at the Abbey Hotel on Thursday, September 24th from 10 am to 2 pm. Organised by MS Ireland Community Worker Jackie Keogh, the fair will bring together statutory, voluntary and community organisations. Visitors will be able to speak directly

to service providers, ask questions and ﬁnd out more about supports available to people with neurological conditions and their families. Ms Keogh said the aim was to make information more accessible by bringing a wide range of organisations together in one place. Admission is free and tea and coffee will be provided. Further information is available from Jackie Keogh on 087 250 2031.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was…

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

FRIDAY Then and now… In Longford for the Joe Finnegan Show, where I join Deputy Cathy Bennett and Cllr Paddy O’Rourke to discuss fuel prices, the Trump visit, the 9/11 anniversary and the GAA integration row. Growing up in Rooskey, Longford was the ‘go-to’ town for us; it had a certain glamour to it! Nowadays, any visit to the Shannonside studio gives me an opportunity to go down memory lane in the form of a nostalgic walk through Longford Town. This usually involves browsing in Newsround, a coffee and a stroll. Today, I reflected – not for the first time – on how much the shopfronts have changed, even if some landmark premises from my youth are still there, such as the Longford Arms Hotel, the post office, the quirky Denniston’s shop (and many more). But the old Odeon Cinema, where I watched the James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only (1981), with Sheena Easton singing the haunting title track, has long since been succeeded by the ultra-modern four-screen Omniplex. Across the street, Mollaghan’s shop on the corner, a favourite when we were children back in the day, now lies dormant. Keogh’s traditional pub, buzzing with humorous chatter when my father and I called in on a Friday afternoon in the late 1970s, stands silent now, where conversation once ebbed and flowed to the rhythm of everyday life. Familiar old solicitors’ offices (the solicitors themselves not necessarily old) also evoke memories. As I continue my walk, a woman emerges from a house in a dressing gown, accepts a package from a delivery driver – the engine still running – and does a code confirmation on her iPhone. These are three things we didn’t do – receive deliveries, wear dressing gowns outside, or live by iPhones – when Roger Moore was in his pomp as Bond in For Your Eyes Only.

Like the seasons, all towns change, the passage of time unrelenting.

FRIDAY 25 years after 9/11 It’s hard to believe that 25 years have gone by since the event that shook the world – the 9/11 attacks in the US. The grotesque audacity – and scale – of this barbaric act of terrorism was without precedent. 2,966 people lost their lives in the attacks that fateful day, while an estimated 6,000 more have since died from 9/11-related illnesses. It was a day that changed the world, most obviously in terms of security, international travel and the way we perceive the threat of terrorism. In Roscommon, throughout Ireland, and across the world, people watched in horror. This weekend’s commemorations, including in Ireland, are poignant and fitting events. It is so important that we continue to remember the victims, their loved ones, and all those whose lives were forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001.

SATURDAY

An eerie coincidence

It was a small thing, but a strange thing. In 2014, I experienced a somewhat eerie coincidence in the vicinity of Ground Zero. Having spent some time visiting the 9/11 Memorial – a very moving experience – we popped into one of the many shops nearby. After browsing for a while, I bought a few items. I handed the assistant a $50 note. The assistant handed me my change: nine dollars and eleven cents. $9.11. Nine Eleven. Of course, it was a simple coincidence, but it was striking. I gather there is even a word for our propensity to see meaning in things like this: apophenia – the human tendency to perceive meaningful connections, patterns or messages in random or unrelated events. And that was what it was. A coincidence. Nothing more. Millions of people visit Ground Zero, and over the course of a week, thousands of purchases are made in the surrounding shops. While the odds of it happening are apparently about 1000 to 1, sooner or later somebody was bound to hand

over $50 and receive $9.11 back. The funny thing is that knowing all this doesn›t make the moment any less memorable. For a few seconds, standing there with nine dollars and eleven cents in my hand, it felt as though the universe had made a tiny, perfectly timed reference to the place I had just been visiting. It hadn›t, of course. It was a small thing – but it was a strange thing.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY Trump visit Well, the sometimes surreal visit of President Trump was a great success… especially if you’re an Irish Whiskeyexporting, staunch Irish Republican who backed Shane Lowry to win the golf…

MONDAY Names and faces… It’s small things that end up frustrating you. Today, it appeared that a man in the distance was giving me a friendly wave, so I waved back. It then struck me that I didn’t know him. Worse

still, it dawned on me at that exact moment that he mustn’t have been waving at me at all. Presumably he was waving at someone else. My embarrassment was minimised as this quite tall man proceeded to get into a quite small car and drive off, our brief bonding moment mercifully spared any further exposure. This reminded me of the other day, when I met a man whose name I know, but couldn’t think of on the spot. Fortunately, as we chatted on the street, I realised – with pleasure, I must admit – that he seemed to be struggling to think of my name too. This meant we were essentially involved in a tense scoreless draw. As we chatted, I discreetly raced through an imaginary file of names in my head, hoping to land on his. Frustratingly, his name never came to me, so I couldn’t get the upper hand. Thankfully, he didn’t think of my name either, and we both bluffed to the end, finishing our conversation with some mutual mumbling along the lines of ‘Good chatting to you’. When he was gone, I raced through the alphabet in the hope of inspiration, and finally his name came to me, like an oasis materialising in a desert. Needless to say, I’ve been obsessively keeping an eye out for him ever since.

TUESDAY Quoting Groucho… After all this understandable talk of 9/11, we need some humour. So I’ll end by randomly quoting the great Groucho Marx (again). In A Night at the Opera (1935), Groucho, as the irascible Otis B. Driftwood, is on a dinner date with the wealthy socialite, Mrs Claypool (played by Margaret Dumont). The date hasn’t been going well – not that Groucho has any self-awareness about that. Mrs Claypool is showing remarkable patience, but is clearly relieved when the waiter arrives and hands Groucho/Otis the bill. Groucho/Otis looks at the bill, then at Mrs Claypool: “$9.40? That’s an outrage! If I were you, I wouldn’t pay it!”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

NewsPeople

Criminal justice system in Roscommon ‘under significant pressure’ New figures from the Courts Service show a dramatic reduction in the number of criminal legal aid certificates being granted by the Roscommon District Court office following the introduction of the new Criminal Legal Aid Scheme in July. In Roscommon, the number of certificates granted fell from 51 in July 2025 to 1 in July 2026. In a recent letter to the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan, the Law Society has called for the appointment of an independent mediator to help resolve the impasse over the new Criminal Legal Aid Scheme. The figures provided to the Law Society of Ireland show that 702 criminal legal aid certificates were granted nationally in July 2026, compared with 10,277 in July 2025 – a 93% reduction of certificates. The figures cover legal aid certificates granted in the District Court, District Court appeals, and matters sent forward for trial. Importantly, the July 2026 figures include certificates granted under

both the old and new Criminal Legal Aid Scheme. The scale of the reduction is reflected in courts across the country. The Law Society says that the figures reflect the impact that the current dispute about the new Criminal Legal Aid Scheme is having on access to justice, and demonstrate the need for the scheme to be re-examined. Minister for Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration Jim O’Callaghan has said that the criminal courts are operating “effectively”, despite the ongoing dispute over the new legal aid scheme. The new scheme came into effect on July 1st 2026. The Law Society has consistently said that reform of criminal legal aid is necessary and overdue, but that the new model does not adequately reflect the reality, complexity or duration of criminal cases. The Law Society has identified two targeted changes which it believes would address the principal remaining concerns with the scheme: ensuring that separate

Roscommon resident appointed as programme manager at See Her Elected See Her Elected has announced the appointment of a new programme manager, with Jill Mellor, who lives in Roscommon, to take up the role, after Dr Michelle Maher retired from the post. See Her Elected works to remove barriers to women’s participation in politics across rural Ireland by providing training, support and networks for women who want to influence decision-making in their local communities. CEO of Longford Women’s Link Tara Farrell said she is delighted to welcome Jill as the new Manager of the SHE Project. “Jill brings a wealth of experience and insight from her work in the political world, along with a strong passion for making a positive difference in the community. We are thrilled to have her join the team and look forward to the energy and expe-

rience she will bring to SHE.” Jill, who has a background in journalism, law, politics, and special needs and disability advocacy, said she is looking forward to the challenge ahead. “I am honoured to take up the role of Manager with See Her Elected. Women play a vital role in the life of rural Ireland and it is vital that women’s voices are represented where decisions about our communities are made. I am looking forward to bringing my political experience to this role in encouraging and supporting women to seek election to local authorities.” Jill has BAs in journalism and law, and is finishing an MA in comparative criminology and criminal justice. She worked in journalism provincially, at the Roscommon Champion and also nationally as a freelancer, before taking up position as a Parliamentary Advisor to Denis Naugh-

Jill Mellor has been elected as the new programme manager at See Her Elected.

ten TD from 2007-2025. Jill also worked with Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland 2025-2026 as Support & Engagement Liaison working on the roll out of a new occupational therapy programme for children with Dyspraxia/DCD as part of a waiting list initiative. Jill is a mum of two and an avid Manchester City fan. She is married to a farmer and lives in rural Ireland, in Roscommon.

Family fun at Ballyforan Fair this Saturday Traditional livestock and horse classes, a dog show, children’s competitions and a new scarecrow contest will all feature when Ballyforan Fair takes place this Saturday, September 19th. Ballyforan Fair returns on Saturday, September 19th, with organisers promising a great day out for all the family – and admission is free. The long-running fair will bring together its traditional agricultural attractions with a packed programme of family entertainment throughout the day. Livestock, the horse fair and sheepdog trials will run from 10 am to 2 pm, with sheep judging from 10.30 am and horse judging beginning at 11 am. A wide range of horse classes will cater for

everything from Irish Draughts and Sport Horses to Connemaras, cobs, ponies and donkeys, while young handlers will also get their chance to take centre stage. One of the highlights will be the Best Foal in Show, with the Paul Kelly Shield and €400 in prize money on offer. There will also be an extensive programme of sheep classes, including categories for rams, breeding ewes, hoggets, lambs, fleeces and goats, along with young handler and pet lamb classes. Younger visitors will have plenty to enjoy too. Children’s baking and craft competitions begin at 11.15 am, while Bernardo the Magician will entertain from 12 noon to 2 pm. Amusements and facepainting will continue throughout the day.

and distinct criminal cases are treated separately where appropriate, and providing an additional certificate where a case extends beyond ten court appearances. Seán Mahon, President of the Roscommon Bar Association, said, “The figures provided by the Courts Service are deeply concerning and demonstrate the scale of the reduction in criminal legal aid certificates since the new scheme came into effect. As a direct result of the new scheme introduced by the Minister for Justice, the criminal justice system in Roscommon is under significant pressure. “Access to legal representation is a fundamental part of ensuring that the criminal justice system operates fairly and effectively. Solicitors in Roscommon are seeing first-hand the impact that the new scheme is having on the provision of criminal legal aid, leaving many without access to justice. These figures should prompt an urgent review of how the scheme is operating in courts across the

country. We would encourage the Minister and the Department of Justice to listen to the experience of practitioners on the ground and to take practical steps to ensure that access to justice is protected. “The Law Society remains available to engage with the Minister and the Department of Justice on the announced review and on practical measures which could make the scheme workable in the interim.”

Castlecoote Tidy Towns Annual Duck Race

Castlecoote Tidy Towns is delighted to announce its annual Duck Race is taking place this Sunday, September 20th at 4.30 pm. Come along and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon in our beautiful, awardwinning village. The picturesque River Suck provides the perfect setting for this much-loved event. There will be plenty to enjoy on the day, with children’s activities, food and the Duck Race itself!

We are very grateful to all our dedicated volunteers whose hard work throughout the year helps to keep Castlecoote looking so beautiful. A sincere thank you also to Roscommon Sub Aqua for their help on the day and to Castlecoote Stores, Dalton’s Pub Fuerty, The Old Stomping Ground, Castlecoote Lodge and Farrell’s Mill for their continued support. We look forward to seeing you there!

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Information seminar to support civic participation Free Even t among new Irish communities in Roscommon Free Ballaghaderreen event will offer practical information on local government, voting and community participation Roscommon County Council, in conjunction with See Her Elected (SHE) and Roscommon Women’s Network (RWN), has announced a free information seminar in Ballaghaderreen to support people from diverse and new Irish communities to engage more fully with local government, active citizenship and civic life. The seminar will take place at Ballaghaderreen Community Resource Centre, The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen, F45 EW98, on Thursday, September 24. Tea and coffee will be served from 7 pm, with the seminar beginning at 7.30 pm. Delivered in partnership with See Her Elected, the workshop will support migrant women and communities to learn more about local government, active citizenship and democratic participation. It will include an overview of Roscommon County Council and its services, practical guidance on

registering and exercising the right to vote, and a panel discussion with local community champions sharing their experiences of civic participation. Members of Roscommon County Council will also be invited to address attendees, offering firsthand perspectives on community involvement and representation. Representatives of Roscommon County Council’s Integration Support Team will also attend to provide practical support to participants. Director of Services with Roscommon County Council, Caitlín Conneely, encouraged women from diverse and new Irish communities across the county to attend the seminar. “This is a welcoming and practical opportunity for people from new Irish and diverse communities to learn more about local government, meet others involved in community life and find out how

their voices can help shape the future of County Roscommon. “I warmly encourage anyone with an interest in participating more fully in community and civic life to come along on the night, ask questions and take part,” Ms Conneely said. Megan Dixon of See Her Elected said the seminar forms part of SHE’s ongoing collaboration with Roscommon County Council: “People of all backgrounds in County Roscommon are determined to play a more active role in shaping their communities. I am confident this will be reflected at our seminar in Ballaghaderreen later this month,” Ms Dixon concluded. The events are part of the wider ‘Supporting Women and Diversity Through Engagement with Local Government’ campaign, funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Further campaign events are planned across the county this autumn.

LOUGH FUNSHINAGH CLIMATE ADAPTATION PROJECT PUBLIC CONSULTATION EVENT NO. 4 –EMERGING PREFERRED CORRIDOR Roscommon County Council wish to invite the public to the Lough Funshinagh Climate Adaptation Project Public Consultation Event No. 4 (Emerging Preferred Corridor) to be held on Monday 21st September 2026 in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Hodson Bay, Athlone, N37 XR82 from 16:00-20:00 hrs. The meeting is open to all members of the public where representatives from the project team and Roscommon County Council will be in attendance. Submission can be accepted at the event or from Monday 21st September 2026 until Monday 19th October 2026 via https://consult.roscommoncoco.ie Mark Keaveney Director of Services Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Free Even t

Future growth of Roscommon Town mapped out in new plan A new Settlement Plan for Roscommon Town forms a major part of the proposed variation to the Roscommon County Development Plan. Under Variation No. 1, the existing Roscommon Town Local Area Plan 2024-2030 would be reformulated and incorporated into the County Development Plan as a Settlement Plan. The change comes as Roscommon County Council seeks to significantly increase the amount of land available to accommodate future housing growth across the county. Roscommon Town is designated as

a Key Town and County Town and is identified as one of County Roscommon’s principal locations for future population, housing, employment and economic growth. Council planners earlier this year indicated that Roscommon Town was among the locations receiving the largest increase in residential zoning provision under the revised Core Strategy. The wider planning strategy for the town places an emphasis on compact and sequential development, towncentre regeneration and improved

links between residential areas, services and employment. The proposed Roscommon Town Settlement Plan is being considered alongside zoning and mapping changes arising from revised national housing-growth requirements. The Council received a number of submissions relating to the proposed County Development Plan variation during the public consultation process, including submissions from Roscommon Town organisations, residents and landowners.

Housing targets ‘should not be viewed as caps’ – Council planner Housing targets set out under proposed changes to the Roscommon County Development Plan should not be viewed as a ceiling on future development, councillors have previously been told. Senior Planner Mary Grier made the clarification when the revised housing growth requirements were presented to members earlier this year. Ms Grier said planning authorities are required

to monitor and report on housing delivery, but stressed that suitable proposals which comply with planning policy can still be considered on their individual planning merits. The proposed variation would increase overall settlement housing allocations across County Roscommon from 1,726 to 3,012 units. Council planners have also sought to clarify that meeting the increased

housing requirements does not necessarily mean relying on significantly higherdensity development. Ms Grier said Roscommon County Council’s approach differed from authorities which relied heavily on increasing residential densities to reach housing targets. Instead, she said density standards would be applied in a way which reflected the character and context of individual towns and settlements.

Director of Services Mark Keaveney previously said the revised plan would provide capacity for more than 3,000 housing units to 2031, equivalent to well over 500 units per year. He added that decisions on residential zoning also had to take account of infrastructure, market demand, economic viability and the likelihood that lands would actually be developed.

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Zoning was key – Brennan

Photo courtesy of Damien Hogan Birds Eye View Photography

Welcoming the funding, Cllr Larry Brennan acknowledged the work of all involved in the Edenville House campaign. Cllr Brennan said that recent agreement on rezoning of the site had been key. According to Cllr Brennan, the land-use zoning status was switched from ‘Community Infrastructure’ to ‘Outer Core’, meaning the property is eligible for future use as a technology or innovation hub. He says this decision was central to securing the funding, adding that the Edenville House campaigners were to be commended for agreeing to this rezoning. Thanking Minister James Browne for committing the funding, Cllr Brennan said he also wished to acknowl-

edge the input of Roscommon County Council, the Roscommon Town Team, and many community groups. He noted that in the six years that he was chairperson of the Town Team, the development of Edenville House had always been high on the agenda. In particular, Cllr Brennan said he wished to acknowledge the great work of former councillor, Orla Leyden. “Over her time as an elected councillor and through her central involvement with those campaigning on the Edenville House project over many years, Orla was always very committed to this issue. I want to commend all associated with this very important project.”

€9m boost to transform historic Edenville House A landmark former military barracks in Roscommon Town is set to be transformed into a major community, cultural and enterprise facility following the announcement of €9m in Government funding. The funding has been approved for the redevelopment of Edenville House under the new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund. A further €150,000 has been allocated to Roscommon County Council to develop a regeneration masterplan for the former mart site on Circular Road, bringing the total investment announced for Roscommon Town to €9.15m. Built in 1702, Edenville House – also known locally as Black’s House – is a three-storey former cavalry barracks located close to Roscommon railway station. The historic building has remained vacant for a number of years. The proposed re-

development will conserve the historic structure while transforming it into a multi-purpose public facility supporting creative, cultural, community and social enterprises. The Edenville project has been approved under Category 1B of the national fund. This category supports projects capable of proceeding to the construction stage by September 2027. Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan said the redevelopment would deliver substantial social, community and economic benefits for Roscommon Town and the wider county. “We now look forward to progressing this exciting redevelopment project and working with our partners to realise the adaptive reuse of this important heritage asset,” he said. “The project will ensure the conservation and preservation of a building of considerable

historical significance while transforming it into a vibrant and sustainable innovation, economic and community resource that meets the evolving needs of Roscommon Town and county.” Mr Tiernan acknowledged the work of local and Oireachtas members, council staff and Government officials in bringing the project forward. Former county councillor Orla Leyden described the announcement as the culmination of a long-running campaign to return Edenville House to public use. “What is critical here is that it will become a space for public use – a multi-purpose community facility for creative, cultural, community and social enterprises,” she said. “This allocation will bring Edenville back into the heart of the community and provide social, cultural and economic

benefits to Roscommon Town and county.” Ms Leyden also highlighted the building’s strategic location beside the railway station and acknowledged the local organisations involved in developing the project. These included Friends of Edenville, Roscommon Town Team, Roscommon Transition Town, Roscommon Town Sustainable Energy Community, Roscommon Women’s Network, Lisnamult Residents’ Association, Roscommon Heritage Group and Roscommon Drama Group. Nationally, €409m has been approved for 120 projects across every local authority area under the first round of the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund. The separate €150,000 allocation for the Circular Road site will finance a masterplan exploring the future regeneration of the former Roscommon Mart lands.

Cllr Larry Brennan pictured with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the recent Fianna Fáil centenary celebrations in RoscommonGalway constituency.

More political reaction Local politicians have welcomed news of the funding. Cllr Marty McDermott described it as a significant investment with the potential to deliver major benefits for both the town and county. “It is a huge benefit to the town and to the county,” he said. “It could be the jewel in our crown here.” Cllr Ruth Conboy said the €9.15m investment would help transform Roscommon Town while bringing vacant and underused properties back into productive use. “We all want to see regeneration in our own communities and to provide spaces that are safe and attractive for people from all generations to gather and enjoy,” she said. Cllr Conboy paid tribute to Roscommon County Council, local community groups and social enterprises that worked together to develop the proposals.

Renewed pressure for action at ‘dangerous’ Oran junction Cllr Marty McDermott has called for a right-turn slip lane, additional luminous signage and improved road markings at a junction on the N60 at Oran amid continuing concerns over road safety. The Cathaoirleach of the Roscommon Municipal District said he was “very disappointed” with the latest response from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) on the matter, which was considered at Monday

morning’s Municipal District meeting. Cllr McDermott said this was now the third occasion on which he had requested Roscommon County Council to write to TII regarding safety concerns at the junction. Cllr Marty McDermott has called for a right-turn slip lane, additional luminous signage and improved road markings at a junction on the N60 at Oran amid continuing con-

cerns over road safety. He said the junction is located on a steep incline, which he believes further increases the danger for motorists approaching or turning at the location. “As chairperson of the Roscommon Municipal District, I was very disappointed with the response from Transport Infrastructure Ireland at this morning’s meeting in relation to a very dangerous junction on the N60 at Oran,” Cllr

McDermott said earlier this week. “This is the third letter I have requested to be sent from Roscommon County Council to TII and again it is a very unsatisfactory response.” TII told the Council that it would not meet councillors specifically in relation to the junction and stated that the current road signage at the location complies with the relevant regulations. The junction forms part

of the N60 at Oran, where the €14m Oran Road Realignment Project was completed in 2020. Cllr McDermott thanked Roscommon County Council for its assistance in raising what he described as a “very serious issue”. He added that he would continue raising the issue until additional measures are introduced at the junction.

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From Castro to The Curlew’s Cry! AFTER THE OCCASIONAL ‘WALK ON THE WILD SIDE’ IN HIS YOUTH, TOM O’BRIEN LAUNCHES DEBUT NOVEL

“

ery that exposes a secret buried for almost thirty years. As forensic scientist Eve Kelly searches for answers, the trail leads back to London in the 1970s and to a hidden history that challenges everything she believed about her family. Moving between London, Dublin and rural Roscommon, the novel explores family, identity and inheritance, and the enduring question of whether character is shaped more by nature or nurture.

< PAUL HEALY

When I was about 21, I wrote to Fidel Castro offering to join his revolutionaries.” I don’t usually discuss the famous Cuban communist revolutionary on Friday afternoons, so this casually delivered comment early into my interview with Tom O’Brien was a slightly surreal soundbite. It was, however, to set the tone for an enjoyable chat, while also offering an early insight into Tom’s idiosyncratic nature. It was last Friday afternoon, and I was meeting the Creggs native to talk about his unlikely foray into fiction – a journey made possible, at least in part, by his retirement from engineering and one which has now culminated in the publication of his first novel, The Curlew’s Cry. The offer to join Fidel Castro’s revolutionaries was just one of a number of fascinating anecdotes that peppered the interview. ‘The Garbally Liberation Front’ Tom O’Brien grew up in a large family in Creggs village. His parents, Tom and Brid, raised eight children. Both were teachers, and Tom was taught by them during his early school years. He was something of a rebel throughout his youth. “I did well in school and I was good at rugby and athletics, but I was a bit wild. When I went to Garbally College in Ballinasloe, I rebelled!” It was an era when teenage boys wore their hair long, a stylistic approach which was frowned upon by the priests in college, one of whom arranged to have a barber call every Thursday, then selecting a few students and marching them off to have their hair made more respectable. Unimpressed with authority, Tom and two friends set up what they memorably called ‘The Garbally Liberation Front’. An early act of resistance saw them cut down a tree to block the entrance to the college. Much more militant action was to follow. The year he turned 16 years of age, Tom and two friends – let’s just say they were founder members of The Garbally Liberation Front – made a crude pipe bomb (weedkiller was involved). “We went back to the college during the winter break. Before going to the school, we managed to get a few pints in Ballinasloe. “So then we decided we were going to set the pipe bomb off at

“I always liked the idea of writing, and retiring made it possible.” Retired engineer and well-known Creggs RFC activist Tom O’Brien pictured at his home on Wednesday. Photo: Michael Finan

the front of the school. On our arrival, we heard a car coming. It was the school president. We hid in the bushes… he didn’t see us, drove on, and obviously went to bed. Then one of the lads suggested putting the pipe bomb in the back of the car, which we did. It went off… the car was destroyed. The Gardaí and the army came. I think they thought it was the UVF.” Meanwhile, the young rebels had made a hasty escape. Roadblocks were set up and house-tohouse enquiries made. Eventually, after Gardaí had spoken to local publicans, they traced the tearaways. Tom recalls being “interrogated” by two Gardaí in the Garbally College President’s office. When he was granted permission to go to the bathroom, he made his escape, and was “on the run” for two days. The escapade made the national newspapers.

‘Tom recalls being “interrogated” by two Gardaí in the Garbally College President’s office. When he was granted permission to go to the bathroom, he made his escape, and was “on the run” for two days’

After three months of being unable to find a school that would take him, Tom’s parents finally got their son into CBS Carlow. “I had a mighty time in Carlow, but I had broken my parents’ hearts” he says, possibly with understatement. Later, after graduating from UCD, Tom sent that letter for the attention of Fidel Castro, c/o The Cuban Embassy, Paris. He wanted adventure, craved travel. “Yeah, I was quite the radical” he reflects now. “I had a copy of Mao’s Little Red Book – although I didn’t read it!” A career in engineering Tom O’Brien may not have joined Castro’s revolutionaries, but he certainly got to travel. As a young man in his 20s, he says he “couldn’t wait to get away from Roscommon.” Initially working in engineering with Irish Cement, he would spend time in Denmark, Taiwan, Tanzania and Zambia. When he had got the travel bug out of his system, he happily returned to Roscommon, first working with Manton in Boyle. Years later, he set up his own business – Tom O’Brien Consulting Engineer – initially based in “our front room in Creggs”, later moving into Roscommon Town. Working as a consultant forensic engineer, he was frequently required to give evidence in court, an experience which would provide some inspiration for his decision to pen a novel.

This bring us to The Curlew’s Cry, Tom’s first book, which is now available. Proceeds will go to The Sunflower Children’s Hospice charity. Now a youthful 70, his retirement from engineering in 2021 has been key to him realising his ambition to write the book. “I always liked the idea of writing, and retiring made it possible. I used to do rhyming handmade picture books for my grandchildren, but I eventually took it more seriously and began writing a novel.”

Secrets and suspense The Curlew’s Cry is quite the thriller. Set between London, Dublin and rural Roscommon, the novel is a contemporary Irish family saga, exploring a long-buried crime, hidden family secrets and the enduring question of nature versus nurture. When a discovery in a west of Ireland bog exposes a secret from the 1970s, its consequences reach across generations. The book begins with a discov-

Support of family Chatting with Tom last week, it was obvious how much he loved writing the book. Reallife experiences partly informed his writing, including the sudden death of his father in 1975. His Dad, who was only 68, had just finished loading cattle for the mart. “He came into the house for breakfast. He had a sudden heart attack and died instantly.” Tom’s mother lived for a further quarter of a century. It’s clear that both his parents were a great influence on Tom. The Curlew’s Cry, moving from rural Arigna to London, with a fantastic series of twists along the way, is an enterprising debut. “Being retired gave me the time to do it” Tom says, before quipping “I’ve enjoyed it greatly, although my wife Geraldine is heartily tired of it now!” In fact, Geraldine – currently the President of Creggs Rugby Club, a role which Tom himself previously held – has been a great support throughout the project. One’s partner is almost inevitably the first person an author runs their manuscript by, and Geraldine, along with other family member and friends, has given Tom great encouragement throughout the process. Tom O’Brien has realised a long-held ambition. The onetime rebel has a new passion. Fidel Castro never wrote back to Tom. You could say that Cuba’s loss was Creggs’ gain.

Proceeds to Sunflower Children’s Hospice

Tom’s wife Geraldine has been a great support to him as he realised his ambition of writing a novel. Photo: Michael Finan

Tom has pledged all proceeds from sales of the book to The Sunflower Children’s Hospice. A public launch will be held early in October (details to follow). Currently, the book can be ordered online – go to https://www.thecurlewscry.ie – and is available in Fleming’s SuperValu in Roscommon, and in local Hospice book stores. It will also be stocked in a number of other local outlets.

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ATHLEAGUE BINGO

newsbriefs

– NEXT BINGO – Tuesday 22nd September

€1,000 heritage bursaries open until Friday

at 8.30pm (Eircode: F42 P440)

Students carrying out postgraduate research relating to County Roscommon have until this Friday to apply for the county’s Heritage Research Bursary. Roscommon County Council is offering two bursaries worth up to €1,000 each. Eligible projects must be at MA, MSc or PhD level and the research topic or site must be located in, or have a relevance to, County Roscommon. Applications close at 5 pm this Friday, September 18th.

JACKPOT €3,500 (on 45 numbers)

25 Card Drive (Double Hand) Every Monday night at 8.30pm

Roscommon to host National PPN Conference Roscommon Public Participation Network is preparing to host representatives from across the country later this month. The 2026 National PPN Conference will take place at the Hodson Bay Hotel on Thursday, September 24th and Friday, September 25th. The annual gathering brings together Public Participation Network representatives and community voices from local authority areas around Ireland. It will be a significant event for Roscommon PPN, with the county having successfully secured hosting rights for the national conference.

Members of the Whyte family supporting St Ciarán’s against Boyle in the Roscommon LGFA SFC quarter-final last Sunday (at Abbey Park). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Water upgrades may be required at Golf Links Road housing site Water and wastewater infrastruc-

ture provides another example of the issues that can affect the development of residentiallyzoned land in Roscommon Town. During preparation of the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan

2024-2030, Residential Site No. 7 at Golf Links Road was changed from Tier 1 to Tier 2 in respect of water supply and wastewater following a technical assessment by Uisce Éireann. Councillors were told that Tier 1 sites had services avail-

able, while Tier 2 sites could require potential upgrades and engagement with Uisce Éireann depending on the nature of any proposed development. Senior Executive Planner Brian Farragher stressed, however, that the Tier 2 classification would

have “no negative consequences from a planning point of view”. The classification illustrates how infrastructure and servicing requirements can influence how quickly zoned residential land progresses towards development.

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FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Still a waiting game Dressed Our columnist Frank Brandon battles Galway traffic, calls for respect for disabled parking spaces, looks ahead to a big night of fashion in Creggs, and reflects on a mixed weekend of sporting fortunes (and misfortunes) It’s Monday morning, and I find myself heading off to Galway, where I have an eye appointment at half past ten in the Maldron Hotel – the one (almost) beside the big Dunnes Stores. I have to be chauffeured, because they will be putting drops into my eyes that will make them sting a lot and cause them to be blurry, and therefore I cannot drive home. It seems that if I did and had an accident, I would have no insurance cover. Anyway, we headed off in loads of time, assuming that we would miss the heavy traffic that is always going into Galway until after the 9 am rush. Sadly, for some reason Monday turned out to be very different; once we hit the Tuam road heading for Claregalway, the traffic was backed up the whole way.

The motorway, when it opened, was supposed to alleviate a lot of the traffic problems that Claregalway has always been noted for, but it doesn’t appear to have worked. If anything, it’s as bad as it ever was. You would have to wonder about the decision to open a new Lidl supermarket right in the heart of the village, obviously increasing the number of cars that come into Claregalway. I know Lidl and Aldi have revolutionised the grocery industry here – and indeed have made the cost of living that bit cheaper for everyone, so they would be welcome in any place – but surely they could have got a site slightly out of town? Whatever the cause (and I’m told an accident on the Headford Road didn’t help), it was a very slow journey, and I arrived into my appointment with only a couple of minutes to spare. I needn’t have worried in any case, as our eye doctor told us she too got held up by the Headford Road incident, had to detour through Claregalway, and was almost an hour behind schedule! Despite that, she put the boot down after arriving and got through her tailback pretty quickly. Whatever she discovers in my examination will reach me in a couple of weeks, so I’ll wait and see (a terrible pun).

to impress Onto local matters: I want to give you more details about the huge fashion show that is taking place in the school hall on Friday, October 2nd, with Celia Holman Lee and the Holman Lee Agency. Sheila Beirne tells me that the shops attending include Fusion Moycullen, Marian’s Boyle, Canella Lane online boutique, Josephine’s Castlerea, Satara Roscommon and Next Athlone. Our own awardwinning milliner Majella Lennon, originally from Friaryland but now Galway-based, will be there, while Faizie Maizie from Roscommon will be showcasing jewellery and accessories. Being a fashion icon myself, I know a stellar line-up when I see it, and this is certainly one! Doors open at 7.15 pm for a drinks reception, and the show starts at 8 pm sharp. Tickets are only €30 and it’s all in aid of the local rural development group and the new Children’s Hospice in Castlebar. So all you ladies, young and old, this is the night you’ve been waiting for – your fashion night awaits! Get your tickets now from O’Rourke’s Spar in Creggs or from Sheila Beirne on 087 8372944.

Parking pet peeve

Boyle U-8s pictured at last Sunday’s Roscommon LGFA Senior Championship quarter-final between Boyle and St Ciarán’s. See page 40. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

VAR from convincing In sport, one of the things I have always been open about is my support for Manchester United, and along with thousands of others I have suffered as the club went into serious decline after the great success of the Alex Ferguson era. And so, we all learnt to deal with several false dawns and false hope. As we deal with the recent sad loss against our neighbours, Manchester City, the one thing I can’t be accused of is sour grapes – and yet, in an era when the Premier League is an actual business where there are millions of pounds at stake, the decision to allow the Erling Haaland winner borders on the unbelievable. For a number of years now, we have the VAR system in place to protect all teams and players from the terrible refereeing decisions

that once marred the games. And yet it seems that VAR has only made things worse! I won’t go into all the specifics as to how the VAR interventions cause so much disruption to so many matches, but how they can make so many obvious mistakes beats me – and Sunday’s defeat to City still rankles. The fact that the Referees Association have apologised for the mistake makes it even worse, although I also have to admit that we played very poorly. However, the fantastic golf victory on the same day of Shane Lowry in the Irish Open, and of Leona Maguire as part of the Solheim Team who beat the US, helped to ease the pain – but not totally!

Talking of being on the road, the other day I was sitting in my car outside a supermarket when a car pulled into the disabled driver’s space. If anything makes my blood boil, it’s to see able-bodied people take up these spaces, so I waited to see who would get out of the parked car. Sure enough, three people emerged – two men (one reasonably elderly and the other quite young), along with a young woman – and they all walked unaided into the shop. To make matters worse, there were plenty of regular spaces available all around the carpark and I have to admit it made me wonder: why could they not have used those available spaces and left the only disabled spot that I could see to someone who might actually need to use it? Anyway, it’s one of my pet hates, so please respect disabled parking spaces – it’s not too much to ask!

And finally… A gentle reminder that myself and my family are holding a coffee morning on Saturday, September 26th, from 10 am to 1 pm in the school hall in Creggs for the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. You will know by now that, as a family, we experienced the support, kindness, and care of all at the hospice during my wife Carol’s stay there in her final days, almost two years ago. None of us will ever forget how good they were to both us and her. back, and so we invite you all to come along on that Saturday morning, enjoy a chat and a cup of tea or coffee, along with a nice bun or pastry, and if you can, make a small donation to the local hospice movement. It’s a truly wonderful cause. We look forward to meeting you all there! ‘Til next week, bye for now

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Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 invites employers to free business growth workshop ADVERTORIAL

Roscommon employers interested in developing a more inclusive workplace are invited to a free business workshop through Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028. Driving Business Growth with Purpose will take place on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, from 9.30am to 1.30pm at The Cube FlexiSpace on Lanesborough Road in Roscommon Town. Delivered by Insight HR, the four-hour session will explore inclusive workplaces, employee engagement, career progression, responsible leadership, community impact and sustainable business performance. A Certiﬁcate of Attendance will be provided, and businesses can book a free place by calling 086 791 2561. The November workshop forms part of a wider programme of support for local employers. It follows a Disability Awareness Training session held on Wednesday, 16 September in partnership with the Irish Wheelchair Association, which covered equality legislation, disability etiquette, perceptual awareness and mental health in the workplace. Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 also works directly with employers to identify suitable roles, arrange work placements to help establish a good match, support inclusive recruitment and interviews, and assist with workplace integration and retention. The team can help employers make workplace information clearer and more accessible, including through the development of Easy Read materials. Practical support is also available, including guidance on the Wage Subsidy Scheme and the Work and Access programme, which provides supports towards workplace equipment, adaptations and other measures that can help a business bring new talent on board. A further area of support for employers is developing awareness of the EU AI Act and the responsible use of artiﬁcial intelligence. The Act came into force on 2 August 2024 and is being applied in phases. It takes a risk-based approach, with different requirements depending on how AI is being used. This is particularly relevant to employers as AI is increasingly being used in areas such as recruitment, employment, training and workplace decision-making. Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 can support local employers to build their understanding of this developing area through information sessions, training and access to relevant expertise. This can help businesses consider how AI is currently being used within their organisation, understand different levels of risk, consider issues such as transparency and human oversight, and build

AI literacy among staff. The aim is to help employers and employees understand AI and use it appropriately and responsibly in the workplace. The programme is also celebrating the achievements of Martina Ryan, Caroline McHugh, Declan Mooney and Killian O’Gara, who were recently presented with QQI Major Awards in Employability Skills at a ceremony in Strokestown Park House. Minister Dara Calleary TD congratulated them on the work involved in earning the qualification. Dr Martin Daly TD also attended, continuing his support for the programme. Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 is led by Martina Earley, CEO of Roscommon LEADER Partnership, and supports people with disabilities across the county to build confidence, develop practical skills, and move towards education, training, work experience, volunteering, employment or self-employment, with each person’s plan built around their own needs and ambitions. Progress looks different for every participant. One person may begin by exploring their interests or building confidence, while another may be ready to gain a qualification, try a workplace or prepare for employment. Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 supports each person to take realistic steps towards the goals that matter to them. Support on offer includes one-to-one guidance, confidence building, CV and interview preparation, job-search help, work placements and certified or practical training — with courses ranging from QQI Employability Skills, Media Expression and Computer Literacy to ASDAN programmes and industry training such as Manual Handling, HACCP, Barista Skills, Safe Pass, customer service and IT, chosen with an eye on what local employers actually need. Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 is open to people with disabilities aged 16 and over who may be distant from the labour market or not yet workready, as well as to employers interested in a more inclusive workforce. For more information, visit www.rosleaderpartnership.ie/programmes-supports/ other/work-links-roscommon, call Roscommon LEADER Partnership on 090 663 0252, or contact Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 Project Manager Mary Guihen on 086 600 2218. This project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, through the Department of Social Protection, and the European Union.

Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 participants and guests with Maria Walsh MEP at a programme event highlighting tailored training and in-work supports for people with disabilities progressing towards sustainable employment.

Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 participants, guests and supporters with Minister Dara Calleary TD and Dr Martin Daly TD at the QQI Major Awards presentation in Strokestown Park House.

Work Links Roscommon 2024-2028 and SICAP teams with Roscommon LEADER Partnership CEO Martina Earley, Fiona Ní Chuinn, Senior Executive Officer at Roscommon County Council, and David Callaghan, Development Coordinator at Pobal.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival

Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival to celebrate 70 and 80 years of Ferguson tractors M

id-Roscommon Vintage Club is promising a packed programme of vintage machinery demonstrations, music and family entertainment at the upcoming Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival. The third annual festival is set to take place on Sunday, September 20th, at Lismehy, Strokestown, in the scenic setting of the foothills of Sliabh Bán (F42 VN82). With a packed programme of vintage machinery, demonstrations, traditional crafts, music, and family entertainment, organisers are hoping this year’s festival will be the biggest and most interesting yet! A special focus this year will be on Ferguson tractors, with 2026 marking 80 years since the manufacture of the first grey TVO Ferguson 20 in 1946. It also marks 70 years since the introduction of the grey-and-bronze Ferguson FE 35, popularly known as the ‘Copper Belly’, which was first manufactured in 1956 and predated the red and grey MF 35 tractor that was a common model on Irish farms through the 1950s to the 1970s. Owners of all other Ferguson tractors, both vintage and more modern, are being encouraged to bring their machines along to mark these important milestones. Other makes of vintage tractors and machinery are also very welcome.

Vintage engines and machinery

O Dylan Marsh will be back making horseshoes at the upcoming Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival 2026.

ne of the festival’s regular attractions is the display of vintage stationary engines, including some fascinating examples from Kevin Foley’s collection. Among them is an engine that powered the last motorised barge to operate on the Royal Canal, in use up to the 1960s. Making its debut at the festival this year will be a 12-tonne steam traction engine, owned by Anto Kiernan of Ballinalee. Manufactured by William Marshall & Sons in 1904, the impressive machine was originally used to power threshers, corn mills and crushers, as well as for haulage. Billy Stuart from Kilashee will also demonstrate his vintage log-sawing mill.

Traditional threshing and corn-grinding

he Rathcline Threshing Team (JJ Donlon, Timmy Nolan, John Fallon and Noel Kearney) will carry out the traditional threshing of oats using a Ransomes thresher dating from before the Second World War and is at least 86 years old. For the first time, some of the grain produced during the threshing will be processed into oatmeal using a vintage corn grinder; the grinder was manufactured by Harrison, McGregor & Co. more than a century ago, the belt-driven machine is owned by Padraig Lennon of Tulsk. Padraig will power the grinder with his vintage Fordson Super Major, formerly owned by his late father, Mick Lennon of Clooneybeirne. Mick was an agricultural contractor who ploughed, reaped, threshed and ground corn during the war years and continued in the business until the 1970s. The straw from the threshing will be baled using a vintage Welger square baler owned by John Fallon of Cullentra, Rathcline, which remains in perfect working order. There will also be a blacksmith on-site, and farrier Dylan Marsh will demonstrate the shoeing of a horse, while Willie Creaton will showcase the traditional craft of wood-turning. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a range of tools and implements from a bygone era.

Horse-carriage, vintage vehicles and traditional skills

One of the vintage stationary engines at last year’s Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival.

at Murray will travel from Ballina with his horses and jaunting car and will offer free horse-and-carriage rides around the fields.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival

Home-made butter being churned at Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival 2025. Donegal Tom will also be attending with his collection of miniature animals, while visitors can enjoy a range of other attractions, including a sheaf-tossing competition, weight-guessing and a traditional haymaking demonstration. The vintage vehicle display will feature tractors, trucks, vans and cars. Among the highlights will be a Ford Model T dating back more than 100 years, owned by Gerry Bratton of Killoe and still in full working order. Visitors will also be able to see the traditional art of butter-churning, while a marquee will host boxty-making, refreshments and other treats.

Music and family entertainment

here will be plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, with a funfair and a range of food and trade stalls, including an ice-cream stall, coffee shop and burger van. Live music will be provided by Billy Garvin, with a dance area available for anyone who fancies a waltz, jive, foxtrot, or quickstep. Ros FM will also be broadcasting live from the festival throughout the day. Attendees will also no doubt be rushing to get their hands on tickets for the raffle taking place on the day, to be in with a chance to

win the impressive load of turf that will be on display during the event. A portion of the proceeds from this raffle will be donated to Pieta House. The Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival is the only event of its kind in Roscommon, and promises a nostalgic and entertaining day for all ages – combining the machinery and skills of rural Ireland’s past, with a full programme of family entertainment. The field will open to exhibitors, traders, and craftspeople from 8 am, with the festival officially getting underway at 12 noon. Organisers are asking all traders, exhibitors, and craftspeople to be in position before the official opening. The Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club committee wishes to thank Joe Bosquette for allowing the use of his land for the festival, as well as all sponsors who have provided financial support and the many workers and volunteers who have given their time to make the event possible. To get there from the N5, take the Kilrooskey Road approximately one mile east of Strokestown. And to get there from the N63, take the L1425 approximately three miles east of Roscommon town and follow the signs for Strokestown. The date for the diary is Sunday, September 20th – a great day out for vintage enthusiasts, families and anyone with an interest in the machinery, skills, and traditions of rural Ireland!

Threshing in full swing at last year’s Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival.

JOHN’S of Doughill Best wishes to Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival

Phone: 087 2608829 Pauline Lavin – All-Ireland loy champion – pictured showing her skills at Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival 2025.

All parties catered for

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

NewsPeople

HEROES OF THE GREEN

Lowry delights in Doonbeg < MATTHEW HEALY

The first professional golf tournament that I’ve been to turned out to be a great experience. Last Sunday morning we left Roscommon shortly after 8 o’clock in the morning for the long drive to Clare and the coast. Our destination was Doonbeg and the Irish Open. Despite heavy traffic, we arrived at the Park ‘n’ Ride site shortly after 10.30 am. There was no general parking available at or in the vicinity of the golf course. Access to the event was via bus transfers from the Park ‘n’ Ride sites only. With US President Donald Trump attending, there was an airport security-style search and scanning for all fans before anyone was allowed on to the buses. After a short ride on the bus you were then at the main area, where there were plenty of attractions, including live music, countless places to get food and drink, and different shops. A number of charities were also present. The weather was calmer than expected for a links course, the conditions perfect for the eagerly awaited final round. Once we walked on to the course we encountered Sergio García teeing off on the 4th hole. What a start to our day… seeing a US Masters winner tee off just as we arrived. We then moved onto the 16th hole where we saw numerous different golfers tee off. We remained there for around 25 minutes for one real reason – the man himself, Rory Mcllroy. We were right beside Rory when he teed off on

the challenging par 3. Initially he had sat on the box-shaped tee box while waiting for the group ahead to finish on the green. Rory seemed to be in good humour, joking with his playing partner, Rafa Cabrera-Bello. He hit a typical McIllroy tee shot and as he set off down the fairway was followed by a big contingent of fans. As for us, we headed to the refreshments area. As expected, the food was expensive. It cost €15 for a 10inch pepperoni pizza. We brought our pizza back onto the course and sat down around the 4th green and ate it there while waiting for Shane Lowry to arrive. Shortly before Lowry emerged, we got to see Ryder Cup legend Patrick Reed. Then the crowd began to get louder as Lowry approached. The Irish fans cheered him on with fervour. There were many people wearing Offaly jerseys to support their county man. Lowry just missed out on his birdie putt. Next, we made our way to the 7th tee box. There is a narrow climb to the top of the hill, which gives spec-

‘There was a great eruption of applause and cheering when Shane hit his drive onto the middle of the fairway. Everyone was now at the 18th, including Donald Trump, watching from the stands’

tators a good view of each golfer’s tee shot. Some children slipped every now and then on the Doonbeg dunes. A little while on, after a few tee shots by other groups, the crowd erupted once again in response to the presence of Shane. He hit his tee shot to around 45 feet, leaving a difficult putt. We followed him down to the green and witnessed his magnificent putt to birdie the hole. For such a long putt it always looked like it was going to drop. Much later on the day, when it was clear that Lowry was going to win, a huge crowd gathered at the 18th. There was a great eruption of applause and cheering when Shane hit his drive onto the middle of the fairway. Everyone was now at the 18th, including Donald Trump, watching from the stands. Once Shane hit his approach (quite close to the hole), the crowds gathered behind him on the fairway. The scene was exhilarating. There was a great buzz, with the big crowd enthusiastically supporting their hero. His final putt, confirming his easy win, had the crowd roaring. A great moment for Shane and his fans. A buoyant Donald Trump delivered his speech and the fans gave the US President a mixed reaction. Attending the Irish Open in Doonbeg, with a home hero winning and the US President also there, was a great experience. A day to remember. *Matthew Healy, a Transition Year student at Roscommon CBS, is on work experience with the Roscommon People

Shane Lowry celebrates winning the Irish Open in Doonbeg last weekend.

Parrott the real deal at Real Betis < OSCAR MULLALLY

Republic of Ireland striker Troy Parrott.

Republic of Ireland striker Troy Parrott has had a year he won’t soon forget. In November of 2025, he scored five goals in two games for the Republic of Ireland (including his famous hat-trick away to Hungary). Since then, the interest around Parrott grew and grew until on August 20th of this year, he signed for Real Betis. Since signing for them, he’s scored two goals in four games (at time of writing). In August 2023, Parrott joined Dutch club Excelsior Rotterdam on loan from Tottenham. During this season-long loan period he scored an eye-catching 17 goals in 29 appearances, impressive enough for one of the biggest clubs in The Eredivisie, AZ Alkmaar, to sign him for €8m in July of 2024. In his two seasons at AZ, Parrott netted 51 goals in 97 appearances, with 31 of those coming in his second campaign at the club (the 2025-26 season). Noteworthy as Parrott’s excellent club form during the 25-26 season

was, it was his performances for the Republic of Ireland that really put his name into the wider public sphere. On November 13th 2025, Portugal travelled to Dublin, with Ireland needing a positive result to stay in contention for the World Cup play-offs. It seemed hopeless. There was a near-unanimous feeling that this was the end of the World Cup road for the Boys in Green. However, Troy scored twice before the half-time whistle, and those goals plus a strong second-half defensive display, saw a shock 2-0 Ireland win. But there was no time to dwell on this success as to qualify for the play-offs,

‘In the 81st minute Parrott took advantage of a goalkeeping error to make it 1-0 and announce himself to Spain. It would prove to be the winner, against the great Real Madrid’

Ireland then had to beat Hungary away from home. Hungary took the lead in the fourth minute of the game, but the man of the moment Troy Parrott buried a penalty just over ten minutes later. Hungarian striker Barnabás Varga unleashed a super strike before the break to restore Hungary’s lead. The score stayed at 2-1 until the 81st minute, meaning Ireland needed two goals. Then, a lifeline. When Finn Azaz played a ball over the top of Hungary’s backline, Parrott was on hand to finish. Then, just when it seemed as if Ireland would make an honourable exit, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher played a last-minute ‘Hail Mary ‘ ball up the field which was headed on by Liam Scales and finished beautifully by Troy (for his hat-trick) – sending the country into hysterics. Despite Ireland losing in the subsequent play-offs (which Parrott also scored in), no one in the country will forget his performance over those two games. These displays for club and

country saw Troy at the top of several clubs’ shopping list, with West Ham coming very close to getting him before Spanish club Real Betis landed the emerging star on a five-year deal, with €20m going the way of AZ Alkmaar. He has continued his goalscoring form this season, netting the winner against Lille, marking his first ever Champions League goal. Even more impressive was his first league goal for Betis. Real Madrid came calling on September 4th. In the 81st minute Parrott took advantage of a goalkeeping error to make it 1-0 and announce himself to Spain. It would prove to be the winner, against the great Real Madrid. Troy Parrott has long been regarded as a player with huge potential. He is now really living up to these expectations – to the delight of Ireland and Betis fans alike! *Oscar Mullally, a Transition Year student at Roscommon CBS, is on work experience with the Roscommon People

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Roscommon

Official opening of Serendipity lingerie and underwear store

For Louise Jameson, opening Serendipity in Roscommon Town has been a long time coming. More than three decades after first considering opening her own shop, Louise has finally taken the leap – and says she is now “living my dream”. Serendipity specialises in underwear, lingerie, shapewear and nightwear for women across a wide range of ages, from teenagers buying their first bra right through to customers in their 80s and 90s. The shop opened on April 24th, with the official opening taking place on Saturday, September 26th next (12.30 pm). That gala day will feature the official ribbon cutting, raffles and prizes. Make sure to call in! Serendipity is located at Unit 2, Chapel Lane, Roscommon (just past Donnellan & Co, around from SuperValu). While opening the business was daunting, the reaction since April has reassured Louise that she made the right decision. She describes the support from customers and neighbouring businesses as overwhelming. “To put it into words, I’d actually get upset. It’s very humbling,” she said. “It’s exceeded all of my expectations. It’s better than I ever could have thought it would be.” See more on pages 18-21.

Serendipity Lingerie

Serendipity Lingerie BOUTIQUE

BOUTIQUE, ROSCOMMON

The boutique’s official launch will take place on

SATURDAY, 26TH SEPTEMBER AT 12:30PM with spot prizes and celebrations on the day Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Unit 2 Chapel Lane, Roscommon, F42 EY62 Tel: +353 86 810 4944

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique

@serendipity_lingerie_boutique

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Roscommon Best wishes to Serendipity from

SPECIALISTS IN GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS Fine Jewellery, Diamond Engagement rings, Wedding rings Silver, gold and Designer Costume Jewellery Antique clocks, Art paintings and prints Irish ceramics and so much more... Uniquely Time Pieces Main Street, Roscommon www.timepieces.ie Tel. 090 66 25408

Best wishes to Serendipity from P. and all the staff at P. Burkes. GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON T. 090 662 7200

GANNON’S Furniture, Carpet And Timber Flooring

Best of luck to Serendipity

Athlone Road, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 65998

Best of luck to Serendipity from

Here’s to a business that is a perfect fit! Wishing Louise, family & staff the best of good luck as you lift, support & inspire your customers. We know your new lingerie venture will be an absolute success! From Gabriel & All the Team @ Lynch Flooring Lynch Flooring, Golf Links Road, Roscommon T: 090 666 6006 | W: www.lynchflooring.ie

Finding the perfect New Roscommon lingerie and underwear store is the fulfilment of a dream more than 30 years in the making For Louise Jameson, opening Serendipity in Roscommon Town has been a long time coming. More than three decades after first considering opening her own shop, Louise has finally taken the leap – and says she is now “living my dream”. Serendipity, located at Unit 2, Chapel Lane in Roscommon Town, specialises in underwear, lingerie, shapewear and nightwear for women across a wide range of ages, from teenagers buying their first bra right through to customers in their 80s and 90s. The shop opened on April 24th, but the story behind it stretches back much further. “I’ve always wanted to do this,” Louise said. After finishing school more than 30 years ago, she remembers first thinking seriously about opening a shop of her own. At the time, however, the idea was quickly knocked back. “I came back and thought I was going to open the shop, but they nearly laughed at me,” she recalled. Without the experience or financial backing she needed at the time, Louise put the ambition aside – but it never completely disappeared. Retail remained a constant thread throughout her working life. She spent 11 years with Satara, later worked in Tesco when the company was developing its ladieswear offering, and also worked in office-based roles. More recently, she spent six and a half years working part-time in Donnellan’s Lady ladieswear retail – an experience she says reignited her interest in the industry and reminded her just how much she enjoyed it. “Retail has always been in me,” she said. When the opportunity arose to reconsider the dream she had parked years earlier, Louise knew that this time she had to take it. “If somebody else did it, which I’m sure they would have by now, I’d have regrets,” she said. “Life’s too short to have regrets.” Opening her own business has not been without its difficult moments. Louise says that getting Serendipity from an idea to an operating shop has involved stress, uncertainty and plenty of emotion. “There’s been a lot of tears and a lot of laughter,” she said. “It’s very stressful, but I have no regrets. Best thing ever. And I love it. I’m passionate about it.” That passion is evident when Louise talks about the importance of properly fitted underwear and the difference she believes the right fit can make. For her, it is not simply another piece of clothing. “It’s the foundation for everything,” she said. “If your underwear isn’t right, nothing is right.” Louise says one of the biggest parts of the service at Serendipity is taking the time to find the right product for each individual customer. Body shape, age, hormonal changes, pregnancy, motherhood and menopause can all mean that a woman’s size or fitting requirements change over time. Louise also stresses that measurements are only part of the process. “The tape is only a guide,” she explained, pointing out that sizing and fit can vary between different

manufacturers and different styles. That means someone who believes she has worn the same size for years can sometimes discover that a completely different size or shape suits her better. Louise wants Serendipity to cater for that individual experience rather than simply selling products from the rail. “I’d never sell something to somebody because your underwear has to be 100 per cent right,” she said. “If I don’t have something, I’ll order it in for you.”

‘Somewhere safe, fun and loving’ There is another side to Louise’s vision for Serendipity which goes beyond retail. From the beginning, she wanted the shop to feel like a comfortable place where women could come in, take their time and feel at ease. “One of the things I wanted mainly was a safe space for a lady to pop in,” she said. “They don’t have to always be buying something.” Louise has already seen that aspect of the business develop naturally. Some customers call simply to browse or

talk, while several women have become regular visitors. “There are three ladies that come every Friday and it’s a cup of tea and a biscuit and it’s a chat,” she said. For Louise, that is every bit as much a part of Serendipity as the products on its shelves. She wants customers to feel they can let their guard down, particularly when dealing with something as personal as underwear ﬁtting. “I wanted somewhere safe, fun, loving,” she said. “All us women should stick together and mind each other and keep lifting each other up.” That approach is particularly important as the business develops its mastectomycare service. Louise says Serendipity is now registered with the HSE to provide mastectomy care, an area in which privacy, sensitivity and individual attention are especially important. She wants women coming through illness or surgery to have somewhere comfortable and welcoming to visit. “I want a woman to feel good about herself,” she said. “Make it feel private, but also appreciate her and love her for what she is and what she’s going through.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Roscommon

fit at Serendipity Support beyond expectations While opening the business was daunting, the reaction since April has reassured Louise that she made the right decision. She describes the support from customers and neighbouring businesses as overwhelming. “To put it into words, I’d actually get upset. It’s very humbling,” she said. “It’s exceeded all of my expectations. It’s better than I ever could have thought it would be.” At the beginning, Louise admits she wondered whether she would even have enough stock to fill the premises. Now, the problem is almost the opposite: “I thought when I took on this unit, ‘How am I going to fill it?’ Now I’m running out of space.” Customers are also travelling significantly further than Louise initially expected. She says women have visited from Boyle, Castlerea, Claremorris, Kildare and elsewhere, with some customers even travelling to Roscommon by train. One recent group travelled from Kildare and spent much of the day in Roscommon after visiting the shop. It is something Louise believes demonstrates the wider benefit that independent retail can bring to a town. Someone who comes to Roscommon specifically for one shop may also stop for coffee, have lunch or visit several other businesses while they are here. But Louise is equally aware that independent shops ultimately depend upon people continuing to use them: “If people don’t keep coming in to me, I won’t be able to stay open,” she said. “People have to shop local and appreciate what’s here – and come in and see who’s behind the business and get a sense of the place.”

A family achievement The official opening of Serendipity will also be a family occasion. Louise’s husband Gary, who is a carpenter, played a major part in transforming the premises. “I had the idea and he did every bit,” Louise said. Her parents, children and extended family have also shared the journey, making the opening particularly meaningful. Louise is mum to two teenagers, Ellie Mae and Philippa, and hopes that pursuing her own ambition later in life has also taught them something. “At 52 years of age, I’m now living my dream,” she said. “I think I’m showing them that life can throw you curveballs and life can go off on a tangent – but this has been the best thing I have ever done, and I’m so glad I’ve done it.” For Louise, taking that chance has already brought opportunities she could scarcely have imagined when she opened the doors in April. She has been put forward for an industry award and expects to travel to London in November, while she is also due to showcase underwear on television in October as part of a collaboration. Those opportunities are exciting, but her enthusiasm continually comes back to the shop itself and the women walking through its door.

Official launch Official launch: Saturday, September 26th, 12.30 pm – ribbon cutting, raffles and prizes on the day. Unit 2, Chapel Lane, Roscommon (just past Donnellan & Co, around from SuperValu – free parking) Open Mon-Sat, 10 am-5.30 pm

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Roscommon Congratulations Louise, on the opening of Serendipity! A fabulous new venture and the perfect fit for you

PROPERTY SALES • LETTINGS • VALUATIONS

With Love from all the ladies at Bradley Homes

Creggs, Co. Galway F42K802 | 090 66 17000 www.bradleyhomes.ie Built on Experience & Trust

Best of luck to Serendipity from

The right foundations From first bras to specialist care, Serendipity owner Louise Jameson wants women to feel comfortable asking for help

Unit 2, The Harrison Centre Roscommon, 090 6627099

Best wishes to Serendipity from

LUXSTYLE LUX STYLE

SUNBED & BEAUTY SALON CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON

087 9935471

MOLLOY’S Main Street, Roscommon. Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512. E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net CONGRATULATIONS TO SERENDIPITY

Buying underwear might be an everyday necessity, but Louise Jameson believes getting the right fit can make a significant difference to how a woman feels in everything she wears. That philosophy is at the heart of Serendipity, her new lingerie, underwear, shapewear and nightwear store at Chapel Lane in Roscommon Town. “If your underwear isn’t right, nothing is right,” Louise says. “It’s the foundation for everything.” Rather than approaching fitting as a simple matter of reading a measurement from a tape, Louise says there are several factors to consider. Different brands fit differently, different styles suit different body shapes and a woman’s size can change significantly at different stages of her life. “The tape is only a guide,” Louise explains. She says experience can often tell her a great deal before measurements are taken, while the measuring process itself can provide reassurance to customers who may not have been professionally fitted in some time. Pregnancy, motherhood, hormonal changes, weight changes and menopause can all alter what feels comfortable and supportive. That is why Louise encourages women not simply to assume that the size they have always bought is still necessarily the right one. She estimates that a very high proportion of the women she sees are wearing an incorrect size, most commonly with a band that is too large. For some customers, discovering the correct fit can be a revelation. Louise says the changes can be particularly noticeable once someone tries clothes over a correctly fitting bra. And while a professional fitting can be arranged, customers do not need an appointment to visit Serendipity. That is one misconception Louise has already encountered. “Most people say to me, ‘I’m sorry, I don’t have an appointment’,” she said. “You don’t have to have an appointment to come in here.” Customers can walk in during normal opening hours, browse the ranges and ask Louise for advice. And anyone who would prefer more time, privacy or one-to-one attention can contact Louise in advance and arrange a dedicated appointment. That flexibility is particularly important for women requiring more specialist support. Serendipity is now registered with the HSE to provide mastectomy care. For Louise, that service is about considerably more than finding an appropriate product. She wants women who may be going through treatment, recovery or major physical change to feel comfortable and respected. “I want a woman to feel good about herself,” she said. Louise deliberately designed the shop to feel welcoming rather than clinical or intimidating. Her aim is to offer privacy where it is needed while still maintaining the warm, relaxed atmosphere she wants throughout Serendipity. That same approach extends to younger customers. Louise stocks products suitable for girls and teenagers buying their first bras,

beginning at around €27, while her overall customer base stretches across generations. At the opposite end of the spectrum, she has customers well into their 80s and 90s looking for familiar, comfortable styles and non-wired options. Coordinated lingerie sets have also proven especially popular among younger customers. For weddings and special occasions, meanwhile, the shop offers bras and shapewear that can be matched to individual outfits. Louise recommends that customers bring their dress or outfit with them where possible. The fabric, neckline, shape and finish of a garment can all influence what should be worn underneath it, particularly where a seamless finish is required. The common thread through all of those customers – whether someone is buying her first bra, dressing for a wedding, navigating menopause or requiring mastectomy care – is Louise’s belief that the fitting should be personal. And she hopes that by creating a relaxed space, women will feel comfortable enough to ask the questions they might otherwise avoid.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique, Roscommon

Something for every generation at Serendipity New Chapel Lane store stocks lingerie, shapewear, nightwear and gifts From a teenager shopping for her first bra to a woman looking for comfort, shapewear or specialist fitting later in life, Louise Jameson wants Serendipity to offer something for every generation. The new Chapel Lane store has been open since April 24th and Louise is continuing to expand its ranges ahead of its official launch. An official ribbon-cutting is planned for 12.30 pm on Saturday, September 26th, with prizes to be won during what promises to be a busy launch day. The core of the business is lingerie and underwear, with Louise stocking a selection of leading brands and fits alongside shapewear, pyjamas, nightwear, dressing gowns and other products. Prices are intended to cover a broad range of budgets, with teenage bras beginning at approximately €27 and some of the premium ranges reaching around €80. Louise says new stock is arriving regularly, allowing her to adapt what is on offer according to customer demand. Winter pyjamas and nightwear are among the latest additions to the rails. One of the shop’s most popular products to date has been a T-shirt bra available in several colours. Louise is also enthusiastic about some of the newer burgundy, skin-tone and seamless styles which have recently arrived. Customers preparing for a wedding or special occasion can also bring in their outfit for a personalised fitting. Gift options are another growing part of the business. Serendipity offers gift vouchers as well as a smaller jewellery selection, with additional jewellery planned. Louise is also working with VMC Candles on a Serendipity scent, with plans for a candle and perfume product. Nightwear and dressing gowns provide further gift possibilities for customers who may not know another person’s exact lingerie size. Customers do not need an appointment to visit Serendipity. The shop is open for walk-ins and browsing, while one-to-one fittings can be arranged separately for anyone who would prefer additional time or privacy. Louise can also arrange collection or postage for customers where required. The response since opening has surpassed her expectations. Repeat

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Wishing Serendipity the best of luck in new Due totheir continued growthventure we currently have the We are a growing accountancy practice based in Roscommon Town providing accountancy and tax consultancy services. following vacancy in the practice

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Qualified Practice Fergus Accountant business has already developed, while Louise says some women are travelling signiﬁcant distances to visit the shop. She has welcomed customers from neighbouring towns and counties and has even had women arrive in Roscommon by train speciﬁcally to shop. It’s a pace of growth Louise didn’t expect so soon after opening – and one she’s determined to keep building on.

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Thank you for your order. Please note: The image above is not to scale and is for information purposes only. This advert is copyright of LANDMARK MEDIA.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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

Old Athlone Society Roscommon culture and heritage to take centre stage presents opening lecture Minister Patrick O’Donovan

Cultúr 2026: Sharing Ireland’s Culture is the official cultural programme accompanying the Presidency. It is bringing the work of Irish artists to audiences throughout the 27 EU member states while also giving communities across Ireland an opportunity to participate. Supported by a €5m investment from Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan, and presented by Culture Ireland, the programme spans theatre, literature, music, visual art, architecture, dance and film. Roscommon’s programme includes events in Strokestown, Boyle, Castlerea, Roscommon Town and Elphin, connecting the county’s cultural traditions with artists, communities and influences from across Europe. The first local event will take place at the Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival in Lismehy, Strokestown, at 12 noon on Sunday, September 20. It will explore the harvest traditions shared by communities across Europe and the different customs associated with the changing seasons and bringing in the harvest. King House in Boyle will host an Irish and Polish collaboration of music and song on Saturday, September 26 at 6 pm.

Presented by Artscope and Creative Connexions Ireland, the performance will feature Simon Morgan and the Richie Buckley Quartet alongside the Emil Miszk Trio from Gdańsk. The musicians will bring Irish and Polish traditions together through contemporary jazz and folk performance. From October to December, Ukrainian Soul: European Neighbours will take place at the Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea. The participatory visual-arts project will bring Irish and EU citizens together to create a large illustrated map exploring everyday life, language, belonging and shared European values. Strokestown Tradfest will take place at Strokestown Park and other venues across the town from October 9 to 11. The festival will celebrate Irish traditional music and dance while also highlighting links with European folk traditions. European and Irish cinema will come together at Roscommon Arts Centre on October 23 and 24 for the Roscommon International Film Festival. European productions will be screened alongside Irish and Irish-language films, encouraging dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. A specially curated Scannáin Ghaeilge programme will be followed by an Irish-language question-and-answer session with participating filmmakers. Later in October, Enchanted Croí Theatre will bring The History of Samhain to Elphin Windmill. Using puppetry, verse and song, the theatrical storytelling event will introduce audiences to figures and creatures from Irish mythology, including the Dearg Due, banshees, ghosts, fairies and Celtic deities of the Underworld. It will explore the origins and continuing cultural legacy of one of Ireland’s oldest seasonal celebrations. Roscommon’s Cultúr 2026 programme will conclude on December 5 and 6 with an Enchanted Christmas Trail at Loughnaneane Park. The event will feature work created through a countywide schools and artists’ lantern project, culminating in a European-themed lantern trail during the Roscommon Christmas Festival. Further information on the programme is available at irelandculture2026.eu.

Oprah Winfrey flies into Knock ahead of property viewings Global media star Oprah Winfrey is understood to have flown into Ireland West Airport Knock on Monday morning, ahead of a series of engagements in the west of Ireland. The American television host, producer and entrepreneur is understood to be viewing property in Cong, Co Mayo, and Ballinlough, Co Roscommon, during her visit to the region.

Winfrey appeared at the 3Arena on Monday night for Up Close With Oprah Winfrey, a special live conversation presented by Pendulum Summit and Front Row Speakers. The one-night-only Dublin event saw Winfrey take part in an intimate conversation hosted by David Meade, with a special musical performance by Niall Breslin also on the bill.

of 2026-2027 series The Old Athlone Society is pleased to announce the opening lecture of its 20262027 programme, ‘Local Government in Ireland: From the Normans to the Present’. The upcoming lecture will be delivered by historian Dr Matthew Potter (FRHistS) in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel in Athlone, at 8 pm on Wednesday, September 30th. The lecture marks the beginning of another season of historical talks organised by the Old Athlone Society. Since its foundation in 1965, the society has provided a valuable forum for historical scholarship, public engagement, and discussion. The opening lecture will explore the development of local government in Ireland from the arrival of the Normans in the 12th century through to the present day. The presentation will examine the evolution of local administration, the changing relationship between local and central government, and the impact of these developments on communities across Ireland over successive centuries.

Dr Matthew Potter is a distinguished historian with a deep commitment to Limerick’s history. He serves as the current curator of Limerick Museum. An accomplished author, researcher and lecturer, he has written extensively on urban history and local government history. Drawing on his extensive research and expertise, Dr Potter will provide a comprehensive overview of the structures and traditions that have shaped local government. Local government has been integral to our public life for over 850 years. This lecture will examine its long and complex history, including the establishment of the canonical 32 counties, the role of city and town councils, and the significance of other important but virtually forgotten local authorities such as palatinates, grand juries and board of guardians. All are welcome to attend what promises to be an informative and thought-provoking evening. For further information, see athlonehistory.ie.

Pictured is historian Dr Matthew Potter, who will deliver the opening lecture of Old Athlone Society’s 2026-2027 programme on September 30th.

Pictured is Belfast City Hall.

Glenamaddy Players set to perform the hilarious ‘PLAY ON!’ Glenamaddy Players are gearing up for their upcoming performance of ‘PLAY ON!’ by Rick Abbott – a hilarious comedy play with a cast of ten actors. The story follows a community theatre that is about to produce a show called ‘Murder Most Foul’ – a new murder mystery play with the same title as an Agatha Christie novel, but with no relation to it whatsoever. The director/theatre manager Gerry thought producing the play was a good idea, since the inexperienced playwright has agreed to let the company perform the show for no charge. Gerry, however, had no idea what disasters awaited her! The show is hilariously amateur. The ‘murder mystery’ plot doesn’t really have a murder, and to top it off, the playwright keeps changing the story and script only two days

The Glenamaddy Players cast who will present ‘PLAY ON!’ by Rick Abbott, directed by Nigel Cassidy.

from its premiere! All of the disasters come to fruition in Act III, when the company performs the actual show with hilarious mishaps at every turn. ‘PLAY ON!’ is a hilarious love letter to community theatre. A great night’s entertainment is in store, and it is certainly not to be missed. You’ll have a laugh-a-minute when Glenamaddy Players perform ‘PLAY ON!’ (directed by Nigel Cassidy) on October 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, and 10th. Shows commence nightly at 8 pm at Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre. Online booking opens Friday, September 18th, via Eventbrite. For more, see Glenamaddy Players’ Facebook and Instagram pages. If you have any issues, please contact the booking phone number – 086 2045896.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

OUT& OUT &ABOUT

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show Where? Strokestown Park When? Saturday, September 12 Photos: Michael Finan

Fergus, Alexandra and Arianna Lavin pictured with their overall champion Texel following a successful day in the sheep section at Strokestown Show.

Abbie and Brooke Gibbons, Laurna Bailey, Amy Owens and Abbey McGlynn pictured enjoying their day out at Strokestown Agricultural Show.

Sean, Elaine, Fia and Shauna Slaman pictured enjoying the 2026 Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show at Strokestown Park.

Harry Hunter, Daniel Dolan, Killian Cox and Jessica Hunter pictured among the crowds at the 2026 Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show.

Killian Cox and Daniel Dolan pictured taking in the sights and sounds of this year’s Strokestown Show at Strokestown Park.

JJ, Joey and Ronan Collins from Ballymoe pictured enjoying a family day out at the 2026 Strokestown Show.

Andrew Jordan and Andrew O’Brien, Strokestown Show committee members and stewards, pictured during the 2026 agricultural show at Strokestown Park.

Romee Dunphy pictured with Claudia Gormley, chairperson of Roscommon Agricultural Show, during the 2026 Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show.

Ivy Broddy and Bridie McIntyre pictured enjoying the atmosphere at the 158th Strokestown Show last Saturday.

Strokestown Show committee members Mary Cox, Margaret Murphy and Maureen Hanly pictured during another successful staging of the annual agricultural show.

Caoimhe Leonard from Tulsk pictured with her dog Stuttie at the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

BallinasloeAgriculturalShow

Saturday 26th September, 2026 & Sunday 27th September 2026

Ballinasloe Show 2026 promises a spectacular weekend of agriculture, horses, livestock and family entertainment Ballinasloe Show is set to return to the heart of Ballinasloe on Saturday, September 26th, and Sunday, September 27th, bringing together two action-packed days of horses, ponies, livestock, dogs, agriculture and rural tradition at Ballinasloe Showgrounds. One of the great traditional agricultural shows, Ballinasloe Show 2026 will feature an extensive programme of competitions for show ponies, ridden ponies, registered Connemara ponies, cobs, horses, young horses, mares and foals, geldings, ﬁllies, loose jump-

ing, working hunters, donkeys, cattle, sheep and dogs. With eight All-Ireland Championships among the weekend’s attractions, the 2026 Show promises outstanding competition alongside a welcoming day out for exhibitors, spectators and families. Saturday – Connemaras, Cobs, loose jumping, donkeys and dogs Saturday, September 26th, will get the weekend off to a busy start, with several major sections beginning from 10 am.

Registered Connemara gelding classes will feature the final of the Easyfix All-Ireland Registered Connemara Pony Gelding of the Future, while the Cob section will culminate in the All-Ireland Niall & Ronan Daly Cob of the Future. The showgrounds will also host the horse and pony loose jumping competitions from 11 am, including the finals of the All-Ireland EquiTrans Horse Transport Loose Jumping Horse Champion and Loose Jumping Pony Champion, with more than €2,000 in prize money advertised across the loose

jumping competitions. At 2 pm, the Gerry Stronge Calving & Security Cameras and John Harney and ISA All-Ireland Donkey Mare and Foal Championship will take place, celebrating another important part of Ireland’s rural and agricultural heritage. Dogs will have their day too, with the Wags ‘n’ Tails Dog Show beginning at 2 pm. The programme includes classes for a wide variety of breeds, the All-Ireland Native Breed Dog Championship, and the Wags ‘n’ Tails Champion Dog of the Show.

Sunday – a huge programme across the showgrounds The action continues on Sunday, September 27th, when an extensive schedule of horse, pony and livestock classes takes centre stage. Show pony classes begin from 10 am and include the Seamus McEvoy Champion Pony, while the ridden pony section features The Pillar House Champion Ridden Pony. Connemara enthusiasts can look forward to a particularly strong programme. Among the featured competitions are the Parkmore Stables Ballinasloe and Fr Christy McCormack All-Ireland Connemara Three Year Old Filly & Mare of the Future, The Donohue Family Champion Connemara Pony, and Grenham’s Bar/Off Licence Champion Ridden Registered Connemara. The horse sections will

also showcase some of the best young and ridden stock at the show. Featured titles include the Noonan Cuddy & O’Neill Champion Mare, the John Harney Champion Gelding and Champion Filly, and the Bernadette & Mark Blehen Memorial Cup for Champion Young Horse. The Irish Draught programme will feature the Jim Derwin International Horse Dealer All-Ireland Irish Draught Colt Foal Champion and All-Ireland Irish Draught Filly Foal Champion. Ridden horses will compete for the Robbie O’Connor Sports Horse Champion, while the main arena will be busy from 9.30 am with Working Hunter classes, including the Garbally Oil Champion Working Hunter Horse and Champion Working Hunter Pony.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

BallinasloeAgriculturalShow NewsPeople

Saturday 26th September, 2026 & Sunday 27th September 2026

A great day out for all the family Ballinasloe Show is about much more than competition. It is a celebration of agriculture, horses, livestock, community, tradition, rural people and rural life, bringing exhibitors and visitors together in the centre of Ballinasloe. With such a broad programme spread across two days, organisers are encouraging families, farming communities, horse and pony enthusiasts, breeders, competitors and visitors from across Ireland to make a weekend of it. Ballinasloe Show 2026 takes place on Saturday, September 26th, and Sunday, September 27th, at Ballinasloe Showgrounds (H53K274) in the centre of Ballinasloe. Free parking is available. For entries and further information, see ballinasloeshow.ie or contact 087 3675757.

Prize winner from a previous Ballinasloe Show. All-Ireland EquiTrans Horse Transport loose jumping pony competition, Ballinasloe Show 2025. Pictured are Damien Griffin (judge), John Carney Snr, Katie Heginbotham (judge), John Carney (sponsor) with daughter Faye, Tommy Duffy (owner) and Shane O’Brien (handler) with winning pony ‘Glenamaddy Lord of Whisper’. Pic: Gerry Stronge

We wish every success to the Ballinasloe Show from all at . . .

Shannonbridge Road, Clonfad, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Tel: 090-9642686 | Mobile: 087-2574979 Web: www.tomrafterycarsales.ie Prize winner from a previous Ballinasloe Show.

Cattle and livestock remain at the heart of the show

Ballinasloe Show’s agricultural roots will be proudly represented throughout Sunday, with a substantial cattle programme featuring commercial and pedigree cattle classes, supported by Liffey Meats. Among the featured cattle competitions is the O’Connor’s Food Hall Best Butchers Heifer. Alongside cattle, the overall show programme also includes sheep and other livestock, ensuring that agriculture remains ﬁrmly at the centre of this long-standing community event.

We wish every success to the Ballinasloe Show from all at

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

FarmingPeople Roscommon MART WATCH Cattle: There was a good entry of stock on offer at the sale held on Friday, September 11th, with a strong trade for both heifers and stripper cows. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also very active. Heifers achieved an average of €4.23 per kilo up to €7.19 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows, and they made an average of €3.50 per kilo up to €4.16 per kilo. Dry cows, sample prices: BAX – 760KG - €3160 - €4.16 per kg, CHX - 805KG - €3230- €4.01 per kg, LMX – 800KG - €3130 - €3.91 per kg, BA – 750KG - €3000 - €4.00 per kg, and SAX – 845KG - €2970 - €3.51 per kg. Heifers, sample prices: LMX 545KG - €3920 - €7.19 per kg, CHX –610KG - €3940 - €6.46 per kg, BBX – 600KG - €2660 - €4.43 per kg, AAX - 690KG - €2560 - €3.71 per kg, BAX - 575KG - €2550 - €4.43 per kg, SAX

Castlerea MART WATCH

-700KG - €2500 - €3.57 per kg, and HEX - 660KG - €2460 - €3.73 per kg. Weanlings: There was a super entry of super quality weanlings on offer at the sale held on Tuesday, September 8th, with a strong and lively 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 €5.00 per kilo up to €6.64 per kilo, and heifer weanlings made from an average of €4.73 per kilo up to €9.42 per kilo. The next weanling sale takes place at 4 pm on Tuesday, September 22nd. Bull weanlings, sample prices: BBX – 420KG - €2790 - €6.64 per kg, CHX- 570KG - €2690 - €4.72 per kg, LMX- 580KG - €2670 - €4.60 per kg, CH - 585KG - €2580 - €4.41 per kg, SAX - 550KG - €2510- €4.56 per kg, BBX – 365KG - €1600 - €5.94 per kg,

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TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS THURSDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER:

CONTINENTAL SHOW AND SALE OF WEANLINGS IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE MONDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER:

CONTINENTAL BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER:

BELGIAN BLUE WEANLING SHOW AND SALE AND CONTINENTAL HEIFER SHOW AND SALE MONDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER:

AA BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER:

AA HEIFER SHOW & SALE

Including Sale Of 14 Continental Springing Heifers (13 Limousins, One Belgian Blue) Due 7th October Onwards To AI Limousin Bull CAN BE VIEWED ON OUR WEBSITE

and three CHX – 661.7KG - €2700 €4.08 per kg. Heifer weanlings, sample prices: LMX -395KG -€3720- €9.42 per kg, BBX -410KG-€2880-€6.83 per kg, CHX – 430KG- €2100 - €4.88 per kg, LM - 465KG- €1980- €4.26 per kg, SAX – 420KG - €1840 - €4.38 per kg, and SIX– 275KG - €1730 - €6.29 per kg. Sheep: There was super entry of sheep on offer at the weekly sale of spring lambs and stag ewes held on Wednesday, September 9th. Prices for spring lambs made up to €200, while stag ewes topped out at €274. Sheep sales continue on Wednesdays at Roscommon Mart. 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.

bulls peaked at €6.16 a kilo while the heifer weanlings hit €5.94 a kilo. Bullocks, sample prices: Ch 445kgs €2360, Ch 410kgs €2180, Ch 405kgs €2160, Lm 465kgs €2100, Ch 450kgs €2090, Lm 540kgs €2480, AA 800kgs €3380, Lm 685kgs €2950, AA 500kgs €2100, Lm 585kgs €2350, Lm 640kgs €2620, and Lm 635kgs €2490. Heifers, sample prices: Sim 410kgs €2260, Ch 417kgs €2150, Lm 380kgs €1800, Lm 445kgs €2350, Lm 465kgs €2260, Ch 435kgs €2180, Sim 510kgs €2860, Ch 605kgs €2550, and AA 685kgs €2430. Dry cows, sample prices: Lm 835kgs €3120, Lm 875kgs €3100, Lm 860kgs €2980, AA 825kgs €2860, AA 785kgs €2680, and BBX 630kgs €1980.

Macra warns over future of Irish horticulture sector Macra na Feirme has career for younger farmers. costs, labour shortages and called for urgent measures The CCAC report iden- international competition to support Ireland’s hortitified low prices, retail among the pressures facculture sector as the numpressures, high start-up ing growers. ber of commercial vegetable growers continues to decline. The organisation highlighted findings in the Climate Change Advisory Council’s 2026 Annual Review which indicate that approximately 83% of fruit and vegetables consumed in Ireland are imported. Macra said fewer than 70 commercial vegetable growers now remain on the island, compared with more than 600 during the DRUMSHANBO MART 1990s. The organisation also PLC pointed to rising costs, saying horticultural input Valuers &Valuers costs increased by 3.9% Auctioneers, Auctioneers, over the past year, while Livestock Salesmen & Livestock Salesmen fruit production costs rose by 7.5% and vegetaCATTLE SALES ble production costs by CATTLE SALE EVERY FRIDAY 4.7%. th Friday 30 Sep. at 7.00 pm Friday 18th September at 7.00 pm Macra President JoseDRUMSHANBO MART Ring 1: Dry Cows, Sucklers and In-calf Cows phine O’Neill said Ireland Ring 1: Dry Cows, Sucklers and In-calf Cows needed to make domestic Ring Factory and Store and Heifers Ring2:2: Weanling Heifers PLC Dry Heifers food production a viable Ring3:3: Weanling Bulls Bullsand andBullocks Bullocks Ring

DRUMSHANBO MART PLC

Auctioneers, Valuers **ALL ANIMALS MUST HAVE 2& TAGS TO ENTER THE MART** Livestock Salesmen AUTUMN SH/SHX SALE in conjunction with normal sale

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

SHEEP SALE EVERY THURSDAY CATTLE SALES Thursday 17th September at 12 noon SHEEP SALE Friday 30 Sep. at 7.00 pm th Sucklersand Special Sale Hoggets Breeding Ring 1: Dryof Cows, In-calf Cows Ewes Thursday 29 Sep. atand 12.00 noon th

Contact

TOM ROGERS

Thursday September at 1.00 pm – Ring 1 Ring 2:24th Factory and Store Heifers

Sale of Store and Fat Lambs, Breeding Ring 3: Weanling Bulls and Bullocks Ewes and Rams

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

ORGANIC SALESALE OFinCATTLE & SHEEP AUTUMN SH/SHX conjunction with normal sale

SHOWS & SALES Saturday 19th September at 12.00 noon Your LOCAL Collector Tue. 4th Oct 2022 SHEEP SALE Guaranteed WEANLING BULLS HORSE, PONY th & DONKEY SALE Thursday 29 Sep. at 12.00 noon lowest price WEANLING SaturdayHEIFERS 26th September at 11.00 am Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Sale of Store HEIFERS and Fat Lambs, Breeding Rams & STRONG Tue.Ewes 11thand Oct 2022

Contact

FORTHCOMING SALES:

JOHN GREENE

SATURDAY WEANLING SALE

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651

FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Lowest price GUARANTEED

SATURDAY 10TH OCTOBER:

Sale on 10/09/26: There were increased numbers of stock presented for sale on September 10th. Prices and trade remain steady, as more customers start to appear, trying to source stock for further feeding. The bullock ring witnessed good demand for quality stores, with the top lots exceeding €5.00 a kilo, while the heavier lots made up to €3350. In the heifer ring, a top price of €5.51 a kilo for a breeding heifer was achieved, while forward lots made up to €2860. Dry cows made up to €3120, cows with calves at foot made up to €3420, and springers hit €2510. Calves and runners remain a very lively trade with a good attendance of buyers both ringside and online. The weanling ring are noticing numbers increase as the

BALLINASLOE

Daily collection

ANNUAL SHOW & SALES

SHOWS SALES Bullocks – 6th& October 2026 THE MARTBIDS APP DOWNLOAD Drumshanbo Mart PLC TO2022 VIEW SALE AND Weanling Heifers – 13th October 2026 WEANLING BULLS Tue. 4th Oct

WEANLING HEIFERS Drumshanbo Co Leitrim K41 KH61 th Phone: 071 9641116/7 Mobile: 086 839 2568 & STRONG HEIFERS Tue. 11for Oct 2022 Phone the Mart Office to book animals all sales Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com FOLLOW THE www.drumshanbomart.ie

Drumshanbo Mart PLC

Drumshanbo Mart PLC PSRA Licence No: 003868

PSRA Licence No: 003868 Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim K41 KH61 Drumshanbo Co Leitrim K41 KH61 Phone: 071 9641116 / 7 Phone: 071 9641116/7 Mobile: 086 839 2568 Mobile: 086 839 2568 Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com www.drumshanbomart.ie Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com www.drumshanbomart.ie

MART ON

DOWNLOAD FACEBOOKTHE MARTBIDS APP TO VIEW SALE AND REGISTER TO BID

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Weanling bulls, sample prices: Lm 250kgs €1570, Lm 250kgs €1310, Lm 255kgs €1300, Lm 420kgs €2210, Lm 355kgs €2190, Lm 435kgs €2190, Lm 430kgs €2150, and Lm 280kgs €1450. Weanling heifers, sample prices: BBX 255kgs €1510, Lm 290kgs €1360, Shx 280kgs €1310, Lm 350kgs €2080, Lm 380kgs €1910, Ch 375kgs €1900, Lm 335kgs €1790, Ch 350kgs €1750, and Lm 345kgs €1600. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart with the weekly bullock sale on Mondays and the weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings on Thursday. Thursday, September 17th will also see the annual show and sale of continental weanlings take place. All sales commence at 11 am.

(Proudly serving farmers for over 67 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday 18th September @ 11 am

Special Sale of Bullocks Also, Dry Cows & Heifers

-------------------------Friday 25th September @ 11 am

Special Breeding Sale of Heifers Also, Dry Cows & Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Monday 21st September @ 5 pm -------------------------Friday 2nd October @ 11 am

Special Sale of Bullocks Also, Dry Cows & Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday 28th September @ 5 pm --------------------------

Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m. --------------------------Saturday 19th September @ 11 am

Sale of Breeding Ewes and Hoggets

Stock must be penned by 9.30 am – Gates close at 10 am --------------------------Tuesday 22nd September @ 4 pm

Sale of Weanling Bulls & Weanling Heifers Viewing from 3pm Sale starts at 4pm Now accepting bookings ---------------------------

- With the Autumn Weanling Sales, up and running we are continuing to advise all farmers to have their stock vaccinated in advance of the sale. Please notify the mart on sale day of this as it will add value to your stock

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

PropertyPeople

Detached Ballyleague residence New Settlement Plan proposed for Boyle new to the market at Sheehy Meares Team Earley Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team Earley is delighted to bring ‘Suaimhneas’ to the market – a three-bedroomed, detached residence enjoying a prime setting in Ballyleague, Roscommon, with beautiful views overlooking Lough Ree. Set on a large mature site and within walking distance of Ballyleague and Lanesboro, this distinctive split-level residence offers approximately 100 square metres of living accommodation, together with a substantial integral garage beneath. Originally constructed in 1976, the property is presented in reasonable condition throughout and offers tremendous potential for a new owner to modernise and create a superb family home in an exceptional location. The split-level layout provides a distinctive and practical arrangement. From the main entrance level, the accommodation comprises a bright and welcoming tiled entrance hallway leading to a spacious sitting/dining room. Dual-aspect windows allow an excellent flow of natural daylight throughout the day, while an open fireplace forms an attractive centrepiece to this generous living space. The kitchen offers ample fitted storage and countertop space, while a fully tiled family bathroom completes the accommodation on this level. A short flight of steps leads to the raised sleeping accommodation, comprising three well proportioned bedrooms, one of which benefits from an ensuite. Positioned beneath the bedroom accommodation is a substantial integral garage extending to approximately 433 square feet. This valuable additional

space provides excellent storage and offers considerable potential for a variety of future uses, including possible conversion or incorporation into the main residence, subject to the necessary planning permission and building regulations. Externally, the property occupies a large mature site with a tarmacadam driveway to the front, complemented by an established lawn with mature plants and shrubbery. To the rear is a particularly generous garden offering excellent scope for further landscaping, outdoor living or recreational use, together with a useful storage outbuilding. Location is a major feature of ‘Suaimhneas’. The property is within walking distance of Ballyleague and Lanesboro, providing convenient access to cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, schools, GAA clubs and a wide range of everyday amenities. The River Shannon and Lough Ree are at the heart of the area and provide an excellent

range of recreational and water-based activities, including boating, ﬁshing, kayaking and scenic waterside walks. The property also enjoys excellent regional connectivity, with Roscommon Town less than 13km away, while Longford Town and Athlone are also within easy commuting distance. With its elevated setting, views towards Lough Ree, mature site, generous accommodation and signiﬁcant potential for modernisation, ‘Suaimhneas’ represents an excellent opportunity to create a superb family home in a highly desirable waterside location. Viewing is highly recommended. The AMV is €250,000, and this property may also qualify for the Vacant Home Grant scheme. For further information or to arrange a viewing, contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, log onto sheehymeares.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.

Sheehy Meares Team Earley close sale on exceptional six-bedroomed Dysart residence Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of an exceptional six-bedroomed, detached residence, located at Grinstead Place, Lisnamucklagh, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Roscommon (H53 DY02). A beautifully presented family home set on an impressive approximately 1.68-acre site in a peaceful countryside setting, this property is ideally positioned in the heart of the Midlands. Sheehy Meares Team Earley would like to extend their sincere congratulations and best wishes to the new owners.

Sheehy Meares Team Earley would also like to advise that they are urgently seeking similar residences in the Roscommon town area for disappointed underbidders. For further details or to book a free pre-sales valuation, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, log onto sheehymeares.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.

Boyle is set to receive a new Settlement Plan as part of proposed changes to the Roscommon County Development Plan 2022-2028. The plan is included in Variation No. 1, which is being progressed by Roscommon County Council in response to revised national housing-growth requirements. The variation will revise the county’s Core Strategy and provide additional capacity for residential development across a number of Roscommon’s main towns and settlements. A new Settlement Plan for Boyle would set out the planning and land-use framework for the town, alongside revised zoning provisions. Earlier this year, councillors were told that the revised countywide Core Strategy would increase overall settlement allocations from 1,726 to 3,012 housing units. The level of development on land already zoned for housing was among the issues examined by planners when preparing the revised strategy. Figures presented to councillors in March indicated that approximately seven per cent of zoned residential land in Boyle had been taken up at that stage. Infrastructure, available services, market demand and the likelihood of land being brought forward for development were among the factors considered when reviewing zoning throughout the county. The Boyle Settlement Plan is being progressed alongside a new plan for Roscommon Town and a separate land-use zoning strategy for Cortober.

JOHN

Kelly Auctioneers Selling and Buying made simple Palace Road, Bishop Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon F45V025

RESIDENTIAL FARM FOR SALE

ON C.37 ACRES WITH TWO STOREY DWELLING HOUSE.

ARDMORE FARM, CROGHAN, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F52 FD70 Folio RN6963F (Plan 21) & Folio RN34901 (Plan 2)

Residential holding on c.37.10 acres of good quality land, all in one parcel. Includes a two storey residence, yard and traditional stone outbuildings with potential for stables, workshop or conversion. Excellent grazing ground currently used for cattle and sheep, equally suited to dairying, tillage or equine use. Private setting with panoramic views, close to Croghan, Boyle, Elphin and Carrick on Shannon.

A strong, versatile farm – early viewing recommended. For Maps and further details please contact the Auctioneer, John Kelly.

T. 086 817 3791 | E. john@johnkellyauctioneers.ie | W. johnkellyauctioneers.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

PropertyPeople

NEW TO THE MARKET

2 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE

IMPRESSIVE 6 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE

3 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE WITH GARAGE ATTACHED

LOCATED AT

NO. 10 OAKWOOD RETIREMENT VILLAGE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN F42 D306

GARDENSTOWN, LANESBORO, CO. ROSCOMMON N39 TF21

‘’SUAIMHNEAS”, BALLYLEAGUE, LANESBORO CO. ROSCOMMON N39 HD98

AMV: : €199,000

AMV: €350,000

AMV: €250,000

NEW TO THE MARKET

3 B/R BUNGALOW STYLE RESIDENCE WITH RESIDENTIAL POTENTIAL TO THE REAR

NEW TO THE MARKET

3 B/R DETACHED BUNGALOW STYLE RESIDENCE

LOCATED AT

KILMURRAY, CASTLEPLUNKET, CO. ROSCOMMON

7 DAY RESIDENTIAL LICENCED PREMISES WITH 5 BEDROOMS ALL ENSUITE ON FIRST FLOOR (All with own direct private access) ALSO SITE POTENTIAL

CASTLEMEEHAN, FOUR MILE HOUSE, ROSCOMMON F42 RH73

AMV: : €335,000

LOCATED AT

AMV: €240,000

LOCATED AT

THE SHANNON BAR, TARMONBARRY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PRICE ON APPLICATION

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Classifieds

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS  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.

CHIMNEY CLEANING

PAINTER

COUNSELLING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES 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

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

Contact Luke on 085 7359120 USEFUL SERVICES 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

083 8838022 TRAILERS

TRAILER SERVICING & REPAIRS to all makes & models (LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.) Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875

Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

www.trailerfix.ie

COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY

FIONA HEALY

Counselling & Psychotherapy ROSCOMMON

Individual and Couples Counselling For further information, please contact

087 7737063

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

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

GARDENING

Tree Care & Plant Hire Residential & Commercial Tree Care

Tree removal Tree crowning ● Site clearance and mulching ● Wood chipping ● Stump grinding ● Fully insured and certified ● ●

Telephone: 087-3477546 Email: kerinsplantcivilsltd @gmail.com

PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

SEPTIC TANKS l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling l Dangerous Tree Removed

FARMING  80-100 ACRES WINTER GRAZING: Available with or without stables. Sand arena, 7 furlong gallops. Quiet hacking transport to show. Tel: 086 215 3747

 MATHS GRINDS AVAILABLE. Junior and Leaving Cert. Experienced Teacher and Exam Corrector, Ballintubber/Ballymoe area. Excellent results recorded. Contact: 086 406 7270

Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered TELEPHONE

087 9795226 ROOFING CONTACTORS

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Tar & Chip Driveways

PERMIT NO: NWCPO - 09 - 03267 - 05

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

• WINDOW CLEANING • GUTTER & FACIA CLEANING • SOFT WASHING

• All leaks, gutters, ridge pointing and valleys of homes • Cleaning and painting roofs • Painting of Roofs, Haybarns and Sheds

Tel: 087 2172281

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Owen for ground work

086 895 3884

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

APPOINTMENTS  FULL-TIME: Deli Assistant and Barista required. Tel: 086 804 0212

POWERWASHING

Alan O’Toole

ALL TYPES OF ROOF REPAIRS

●

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

WINDOW CLEANING

Kerins Plant Ltd

●

–––––––– oOo ––––––––

Accreditated Member of

Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6625521 All types of Footwear Repairs, Shoe Stretching, Orthopedic Shoe Lifts, Dancing Soles replaced (all colours), Shoe Cleaning, Stitching • Stockist of all Shoe Care Products • Handbag Repairs • Watch & Jewellery repairs – watch batteries, straps, mechanics, etc, replaced • Leather Goods – Belts, Purses, Bags, Wallets, Laptop Bags – all colours • Watches, Pendants, Jewellery, etc. for sale and repair

GARDENING

●

MATHS GRINDS

FIONA HEALY

HILL’S Shoe Repairs

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

hello@fionahealy.ie

BSc (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy

SHOE REPAIRS/ LEATHER/ JEWELLERS

Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

–––– Free Quotation ––––

JOE HEALY

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

Phone:

087 2721193

• 10% discount with this advertisement. • Fully insured and work guaranteed for 5 years

Contact Mike 089 9661849.

FOR SALE JUMBO BAGS OF SCREENED TOP SOIL: Good quality Top Soil for sale. €60 per bag, delivered Roscommon area. Tel: 083 867 7996

TO LET/RENT  2/3 ROOMS TO LET: Rooms available to let in Curnalee, Curraghboy Co. Roscommon. Private bathroom and lots of parking available. Tel: 086 215 3747  HOUSE TO RENT: House in Roscommon Town. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Enquiries to: RoscommonHome@ gmail.com

FIREWOOD / COAL/FUEL SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Mixture of Ash and White Thorn, all Hardwood Suitable for stoves and open fires. Excellent quality

Phone: 083 0684011  TONNE BAGS OF HARDWOOD for sale. Well seasoned. Collect or delivered. Tel. 083 8677996.  FOR SALE: Firewood. Tonne bags. Excellent quality firewood. €50 per bag. Also, excellent quality square bales of hay. €4 per bale. Call Tom 086 2628439.  FOR SALE: Quality seasoned hardwood firewood, carefully prepared and ideal for both stoves and open fires, with convenient large bulk bags available for easy storage and handling. Call: 086 331 2411

BOOKKEEPING SERVICES  BOOKKEEPING SERVICES: Professional, reliable bookkeeping for companies, SMEs, sole traders and individuals. Accounts, VAT returns, Payroll, Bank Reconciliations, Invoicing, Financial Administration. Contact PO Box 3139 at Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town.

APPOINTMENTS  FORDE WINDOWS AND DOORS, BALLINLOUGH: Require a person for manufacturing of PVC windows and doors. All training provided. Contact Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon F42 XH58. Ref: PO Box 3142

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Classifieds

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

PAINTER

PODIATRIST

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

Tullys

For all your decorating needs

CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

Podiatrist/ Chiropodist

SARAH FLEMING CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. ● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

ITA BETTS

ALTERATIONS/ REPAIRS

Klassic Cleaners ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS

Including zips repaired or replaced, waist adjustments, hems turned up/let down Fitting Services Available

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed For Professional Advice Contact: Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie athlonechimneyrepairs@gmail.com

● Sliding Wardrobes ● Kitchen/Utility/bedroom units

Any Grant work sought

Phone: 083 1628531

Email: richie689dooner@gmail.com

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE – including Service Washing:

Blankets, Duvets, Throws, Team Kits, etc.

GARDENING

HANLEY WINDOWS AND DOORS LTD S.E.A.I. APPROVED

• Full Retrofit Service • Composite, PVC, Patio, French Doors • PVC Windows in a wide range of styles & colours. • Replacement Hinges, Handles, Locks, Restrictors, Double & Trible Glazed Units • All Repairs and Service Work Carried Out Contact Pat: 086 600 2721 or Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com CLEANING

ANY FITTING REQUIRES APPOINTMENT

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

Tel: 090 6621220 SOUL MATES AREAS WE COVER: • Gardening • Landscaping • Carpentry • Patios • Fencing/ Post & Rail/ Laminate Floors • Power Washing • Concreting

Don’t be alone!

SOUL MATES

Meet that special person for friendship and romance with like minded people. Safe, secure and confidential

PODIATRIST

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON Golf Links Road, Roscommon town F42YX65 (behind Curtain Centre) (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle --------

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

Mobile:

086 8115928

● Luxury Bathroom Renovations

WINDOWS AND DOORS

Tel: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250

BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

• Dept. of Health Approved • CORU Registered

For appointment phone: 086 8630008 E.: itabetts@gmail.com

Richie Dooner

TEL. 090 6625995 Church St., Roscommon.

BSC (HONS.) PODIATRY MCHSI, RGN

For all aspects of footcare in Roscommon, Castlerea & Boyle

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803 Co Galway

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

HOME RENOVATIONS  HOME RENOVATIONS: Carpentry, home renovations, doors, floors, shelving, tiling and painting. Custom fireplaces. All moulding work. Call Marty on 085 772 4663.

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Dylan Byrne

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Tel: 089 2551716

Telephone: 090 66 33026

DIP CHFP

For Bookings Contact: College Road,

WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Tel: 087 2982214

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment CORU Registered

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved

KEARNEY’S CHEMIST Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment, phone: (089) 4142233

• 20 years experience • HOUSE CALLS AVAILABLE

W: roscommonwindowsanddoors.com E: roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

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

TILER

Professional Tiler available Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

or email michaelkilroe123@gmail.com for all your tiling needs.

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 People Friday 18 September 2026

Classifieds INSULATION

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

GARDENING

DAVID DUFFY 087 9662678

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in or contact us for free SIGA Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial

€1,214 to Estate, Galway €3,500

091 768 768

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Block 12, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway Galway H91 P5k5 www.ecowise.ie

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

www.westside-gardening.com GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal. CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available OLD HOUSE RENOVATIONS: All house renovations covered

C2 Registered & Insured. FREE QUOTATIONS

www.ecowise.ie

WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

TUITION

GLM WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS ((uPVC) uPVC) Keen Rates

Over 20 years in business

Junior Cycle HL Maths Leaving Cert HL Maths

Where: JACKSON’S, The Square, Roscommon

WIN 2 TICKETS to The SCRIPT

3 Arena, Dublin, October 31st Follow our Facebook page to enter. For more information & to book your place contact:

Lorraine Kenny

086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommon mathsgrinds@gmail.com

Window and Door Replacement Double Glazing Units Replaced No Call Out Maintenance Carried Out to Existing Charge Windows and Doors

Contact Gerry Martin on 086 2203335 or Luke on 087 9916652 Email: gerrymartin198@gmail.com

GROUND WORKS

First Choice Rubbish • House Clearance • Shed and Garage Clearance • All Household Furniture

Covers West of Ireland

Call Bernie 086 3921255 Permit no NWCPO/15/11595/03

Caroline Burke COACHING

Cllr. Valerie Duffy Electoral Area: Athlone Roscommon County Council

Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Career Coach and Consultant Specialising in Confidence Building

 CONFIDENCE BUILDING  INTERVIEW MASTERING  CV AND APPLICATIONS  CHANGING CAREER

Tel: 086 8229606 Email: cburkecoaching@gmail.com Web: www.carolineburke.ie

TELEPHONE: 087-3995199 Email: cllrvduffy@roscommoncoco.ie

INSURANCE CLAIMS

PLUMBING & HEATING

LMC Plumbing & Maintenance

• Bathroom planning and

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

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

Martin Mountbellew, Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Co.Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co. Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 9818153 Mountbellew, Co. Galway www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | Approved 087 9818153 Product

Certified Dip in Loss Certified in Certified Dip DipAdjusting in Loss Loss

info@mhla.ie

Member of the PSAB-GI

Advisor Product Approved Member of Approved Product Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Regulated by the Central Adjusting Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Advisor Advisor Regulated by the the Central Central www.mhla.ie Regulated by Institute of Ireland Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Member of of the the Insurance Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Loss Member Bank Institute of Ireland Institute of Ireland

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting

Approved Product Advisor

Loss Assessor Services

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

LMC PLUMBING & MAINTENANCE

GF Ground Works ● Landscaping ● Paving & Kerbing ● Foundations

● Footpaths ● Drainage & Septic tanks ● Driveways ● Tree/Hedge Removal ● Fully insured ● References available

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

LMC

Contact LUKE

on 085 735 9120

Booking Deposit Required

USEFUL SERVICES

CAREER COACHING

USEFUL SERVICES

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

Caramore Electrical Ltd.

WE DO ANYTHING

• Domestic • Commercial • Agricultural

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

From ﬁtting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

Registered Electrical Contractor

– All areas covered – No job too small! • Installation of Electric Car Chargers • Installation of ESB Changeover Switches

Tel. 087 905 3870

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? TO HAVE YOUR ADVERT SEEN BY OVER 80,000 PEOPLE EVERY WEEK ADVERTISE WITH US! The most read newspaper in County Roscommon.

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 OR EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES FLANAGAN Peter

GARVEY Ballintubber.

Ballinagard Road, Roscommon Town, Roscommon / Peter Street, Westport, Co. Mayo.

HOARE Gladys and James 21 Circular Road, Roscommon Town

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

(First Anniversary)

As we mark the first anniversary of the late Peter Flanagan, his wife Mary and children Claire, Ronan, Melanie, Sarah, Peter (Jnr.), John and Henry, his grandchildren, great-grandchild, and his sister Mary along with extended family, wish to extend our sincere gratitude to our friends, neighbours and the wider community of Roscommon Town for the love, support, kindness and friendship extended to us at the time of his passing and throughout the past year. Our heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of Roscommon Hospital and Ambulance Service for the compassion and care shown to Peter throughout his illness. We also wish to express our thanks to the medical team at University Hospital Galway, G.P. Fiona Sweeney and the staff at McGuinness’ Pharmacy for the excellent care he received during his sickness. We will be forever grateful to Fr. Pravin for his spiritual guidance and assistance to Peter in his final moments and for his prayers and support to us as a family, along with his help with the organisation of the Funeral Mass. We also thank all those who sent mass bouquets. To Smyth’s Funeral Directors who we thank for their help and guidance throughout the funeral arrangements. Our sincere thanks to Miriam Hunt and the choir for the choice of hymns and the beautiful singing which provided great comfort to us during Peter’s Funeral Mass. To the nurses, staff and volunteers of Roscommon Hospice we will be forever grateful for the care given to Peter in his final hours and for the compassion and support provided to us as a family during his time there. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Peter’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 19th September at 7pm. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. P.M.A.

FALLON Albert (Bert) Coolusty, Athleague (5th Anniversary) 20th September 2021

He lived for those he loved, and those he loved remember. Always loved and sadly missed, by his wife Mary, sons Noel and Adrian, daughters-in-law Martina and Sabrina, grandchildren Cormac, Ethan, Caoimhe, Lauren and Áine. Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday, 20th September at 10am.

THOMAS F (49th Anniversary) NORA (16th Anniversary) THOMAS (17th Anniversary) MARTIN (12th Anniversary) MARY (4th Anniversary) VALERIE (6th Anniversary) TOM F (4th Anniversary) Also remembering John who died 1st September 2026 Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Sadly missed and remembered by all their families. Mass will be offered on Sunday, 20th September at 11.30am in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber.

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Gladys (23rd Anniversary) Who passed away on the 1st September, 2003

James (19th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 6th June 2007

KEANE Audrey (First Anniversary)

You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, and although we cannot see you, you are always by our side. Sadly missed by their daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great -grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will take place on Saturday, 19th September in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 10am.

CARR Noel Aughmagree, Kilteevan, Roscommon / Calry, Sligo. Month’s Mind Mass

We the family of the late Audrey Keane who passed away on the 22nd September, 2025 wish to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported and sympathised with us following the loss of our dear Mother. Sincere thanks to all our relatives, friends, neighbours, and those who attended and travelled long distances to Audrey’s Removal and Funeral. The family would also like to thank everyone who called, sent condolences, Mass cards and floral tributes. Your thoughtfulness and support were greatly appreciated.

MURRAY Noreen Lisphelim, Knockcroghery. Who passed away on September 30th 2005. (21st Anniversary)

Always remembered by your loving niece Geraldine. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 20th September in St John’s Church, Lecarrow at 11.30am.

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

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

In loving memory of a special Aunt

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 place upon her grave may wither and decay, But the love for you that lies beneath will never fade away...

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

We wish to thank Fr. Joe Fitzgerald for celebrating the Funeral Mass also Catherine Byrne, her granddaughter for the beautiful hymns. Music provided by Loftus Harp Duets and all those who took part in the service in any way. God called your name so softly, That only you could hear, And no one heard the footsteps Of Angels drawing near. The golden gates stood open, God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best. As we mark the Month’s Mind for Noel we would like to thank all the staff in Mullingar Hospital for their care of Noel and his Doctor, Elizabeth Sweeney, Roscommon. To Smyth’s and Feehilys Funeral Directors. who we thank for their help and guidance throughout the funeral arrangements. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. Thank you so much for all your kindness and sympathy during this incredibly difficult time. It is sincerely appreciated and will never be forgotten. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Lovingly missed and remembered by his family, friends and colleagues. Noel’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in Calry Church, Sligo on Saturday, 19th September at 12 noon.

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IS TUESDAYS AT 2.00 pm

Thank you to Pat and Gillian of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their help and expertise with the Funeral Arrangements. A very special thank you to the Palliative Team for the care they gave Mother in her final days. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Audrey’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 27th of September at 11.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

ROBERTO Paolo (Pablo) Castlecoote, Roscommon. In Loving Memory of Pablo who passed away on the 21st September 2025 (1st Anniversary)

With gratitude for Pablo’s life and our beautiful time spent together, Orla & Donata Maria and the Roberto, Leyden and Manchisi families. Pablo’s First Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 20th September at 11:30am in the Church of the Assumption, Castlecoote.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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FAMILY NOTICES COMISKEY Seamus & Joan Lisnamult, Roscommon.

CURLEY Bridget

FIORENTINI

Tobberconnor, Rahara

Bridie

(18th Anniversary) 11th September 2008

(nee Curley) Tobberconnor, Rahara and Cheltenham, England

BRENNAN Frank Mount Dillon, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon. In loving memory of Frank, who passed away on 1st August, 2026

(15th Anniversary) 24th September 2011

Seamus Joan (2nd Anniversary) (7th Anniversary) In loving memory of Seamus Comiskey, Lisnamult Roscommon who died on September 20th 2024 and his devoted wife, Joan who died September 13th 2019 A smile for all, hearts of gold, the very best this world could hold, Never selﬁsh, always kind, beautiful memories left behind. Missed and loved and always remembered by your daughters Natasha, Jackie and son James, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandson and extended family. Predeceased by their grandson Aaron. Anniversary Mass will be offered for Seamus & Joan in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 19th September at 10am.

KEANE Michael Turla, Ballymoe, Co. Galway. In loving memory of Michael who passed away on the 26th September 2025 (1st Anniversary)

We miss your smile, your joking ways. We miss the things you used to say, And when old times we do recall, It’s then we miss you most of all. You were always there when we needed you, No task too great or small. With loving heart and willing hands, For us you did it all. You gave us years of happiness, Then sorrow came with tears. You left us lovely memories, We will treasure through the years.

Dearly loved and sadly missed by your loving wife Eileen, son Karl, daughter Susan, sister Nora, daughter-in-law Lorraine, son-in-law John, grandsons Daniel and Lucas, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends. Michael’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St Croan’s Church, Ballymoe, Co. Galway on Saturday 26th September at 12 noon.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

In loving memory of our dearest mother and sister.

Your memory we cherish With thoughts that are dear We think of you often Not just once a year. Always loved and remembered by your daughters Mary, Ann, Veronica and sons-in-law.

Loved and remembered always by your daughter Francesca, sisters Mary, Ann, Veronica and brothers-in-law.

Masses offered. May you both Rest In Peace

GORMLEY (née Hunt) Bernadette Derrane, Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

They say time makes things easier, but some people leave a space that can never truly be ﬁlled. We miss our beautiful mammy more than words could ever say. Two years have passed since we said goodbye, But not a day goes gently by That we don’t think of you and wish you were here, To see your smile and have you near. We miss your voice, we miss your face, We miss the warmth of your loving embrace. We miss your laughter, your caring ways, And all the love you gave us through our days. There are so many times we wish we could say, “Mammy, we need you here today.” To sit beside you, to hold your hand, To hear your voice and know you understand. Life has carried on, as we knew it would, But without you, Mammy, it’s never quite as good. There’s a place in our family that belongs only to you, And no matter how much time passes, that will always be true. We hope you’re somewhere peaceful above, Watching over us and feeling our love. And although we cannot see you anymore, You’re still beside us, just as before. Two years without you feels both long and short, Because in our hearts, you’ve never been apart. Until the day we’re together again, We’ll carry you with us, through sunshine and rain.

Forever loved and missed everyday by Seamus and your loving family. 2nd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 26th September 2026 at 7pm in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane, Roscommon

The family of the late Frank Brennan wish to express their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported and sympathised with us on our recent sad loss. We are deeply grateful to all who called to our home, attended Frank’s Removal, Funeral Mass, Burial, sent cards, letters, messages of condolences and supported us in any way. Thank you to Fr. Dan Udofia and Fr. Larry Behan who visited Frank in his home on a number of occasions during his final days and who officiated at his Funeral and Final Commendation. Thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at Roscommon County Hospital, University Hospital Galway, Galway Clinic and Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe who treated and cared for Frank over the last six years. A special word of thanks to the exceptional Palliative Care Team and Irish Cancer Society Nurse who cared for Frank with such tenderness in his final days and hours. We wish to express our sincere thanks to the neighbours and friends who called to our home on the evening of Sunday, 3rd August 2026 when Frank’s remains returned to Mount Dillon for a final time. Similarly, we wish to express our gratitude to the incredible team of volunteers, neighbours and friends who opened Frank’s grave and prepared his final resting place with such care and attention. Thank you to Pat, Marian and John McHugh for their professionalism, guidance and compassionate support in arranging Frank’s Funeral. Our sincere thanks to Andrew and Emer Reynolds and the members of the Roscommon Solstice Choir who sang so beautifully at Frank’s Funeral Mass. It was a wonderful and fitting tribute to Frank and his love of choral music. We wish also to thank the members of the South Roscommon Singing Circle for over 30 years of friendship and companionship; music and singing were an enormous and important part of Frank’s life. Thank you to the management and staff of the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown for the lovely meal after the Burial. To everyone who helped us in any way, thank you sincerely. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. And the night shall be ﬁlled with music, And the cares that infest the day, Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs, And as silently steal away. Longfellow – the Day is Done

FAMILY NOTICES • ANNIVERSARY REMEMBRANCE • ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS • BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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PLANNING NOTICES ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION AND REVISED PLANS Significant Further Information and Revised Plans have been submitted in relation to planning ref. no. 26/60130 by applicants Gary & Róisín Dunne at Racecourse Rd, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. The development applied for consisted of permission to construct a domestic dwelling house and domestic garage together with connection to public water mains and public foul sewer and all associated site development works at Racecourse Rd, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

Significant Further Information & Revised Plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and are available for inspection or purchase at the offices of the Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation. Signed:

James Lohan Planning & Design Consulting Engineers, Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 085 1756190 Mob: 085 1584081 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. I, Brian Murray, intend to apply for permission for development at Carrowduff Upper, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of: a) construction of a singlestorey extension to the front and left-hand side of the existing derelict dwelling, including the demolition of the existing front porch, rear extension and a gable wall, c/w internal wall modifications and replacement of the existing roof; b) installation of a new wastewater treatment system to EPA CoP 2021, c/w tertiary treatment system on an infiltration bed, and decommissioning of the existing septic tank; and c) modification of the existing site entrance, together with all 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, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Vincent Durkin (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie Architectural Designs Tel: 086 83 72 933

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. Derek Dalton intends to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Foghanagh More TD, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45 NT26. The development will consist of install of new wastewater treatment system and tertiary polishing filter and all 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, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee (E20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the application. Signed: Coyle Environmental Limited Agents for Derek Dalton 1st and 2nd Floor Kilmurry House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 DK58

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Proposed Replacement Of Existing Septic Tank System With An Onsite Wastewater Sewerage System In Accordance With The EPA Code Of Practice 2021 And All Ancillary Site Works At Sliabh Beagh, Derryherk, Knockvicar, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52 YY70 For Craig McCauley.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during it’s Public Opening Hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Cunningham Design & Planning Limited Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. Lisnagavragh, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. I hereby apply to the above authority on behalf of Darren Fallon and Klaudia Lewandowska for planning permission to construct a fully serviced private dwelling house with waste water treatment system and garage / fuel shed to include all associated site works at the above location. A Natura Impact Statement, (N.I.S.) will be submitted to Roscommon County Council as part of the application.

The application and N.I.S. may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 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: Ruane Survey, Design and Planning Ltd. Fohenagh, Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Phone: (090) 9688516. Mobile: (087) 8188596.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. We Cathal & Anne Quinn intend to Apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect Dwelling House, Domestic Garage provide a treatment plant, to provide secondary and tertiary treatment and all associated works, at Elphin Td, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

The Planning Application May Be Inspected Or Purchased At A Fee Not Exceeding The Reasonable Cost Of Making A Copy, At The Offices Of The Planning Authority During Its Public Opening Hours. A Submission Or Observation In Relation To The Application May Be Made In Writing To The Planning Authority On Payment Of The Prescribed Fee Of €20.00. ,Within A Period Of 5 Weeks Beginning On The Date Of Receipt By The Authority Of The Application, And Such Submissions Or Observations Will Be Considered By The Planning Authority In Making A Decision On The Application. The Planning Authority Subject To or Without Conditions, or May Refuse To Grant Permission. Signed: Cathal & Anne Quinn

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. We, Evan Henman & Annabel O’Grady, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish part of the existing structure and construct a single storey rear extension along with a new treatment system and all ancillary works at Rinnagan, Lecarrow, F42 EK83. This application has an accompanying NIS report.

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

Ph: 089 243 6908 Email: evan@henmandesign.com Web: www.henmandesign.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. I, Noelle Harrington, intend to apply for retention permission of development at Culfatha, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, H53 W729. Permission is sought for retention of domestic outbuilding (garage/storage) and alterations to front elevation windows of extension granted under planning permission reference 2100(A)/87.

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: Noelle Harrington

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. Athleague Tidy Towns / We Are Athleague are applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the development of a “Living Landscape Walk” at the townlands of Athleague, Clooneen and Cloonykelly, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of: • Construction of an accessible walking route linking the Circle of Life Park with a new memorial garden, viewing areas and recreational amenities. • Provision of new pedestrian pathways including no-dig pathways, upgraded farm tracks, raised walkways and boardwalk structures. • Construction of a new pedestrian suspension bridge across the River Suck, including bridge supports, abutments, balustrades and associated infrastructure. • Provision of a bird hide, viewing deck, seating areas, interpretation features and visitor infrastructure. • Provision of a memorial garden including landscape works, planting, seating and associated amenities. • Installation of gates, fencing, access controls, wayfinding signage and visitor information throughout the route. • Provision of biodiversity enhancement measures including native planting, habitat creation and ecological mitigation works. • Upgrade works to existing access tracks including resurfacing, drainage improvements and associated accessibility measures. • Associated flood management, drainage, landscaping, site development and ancillary works. The proposed development is located within the River Suck Callows Special Protection Area (SPA) (Site Code 004097) and the Suck River Callows Natural Heritage Area (NHA) (Site Code 000222). The proposed development passes through the recorded earthworks (RO041-048010) and the combined Zone of Notification associated with this and adjacent recorded monuments, comprising a road/trackway (RO041-048009), ford (RO041-048006), graveyard (RO041-048015), mills (RO041-048003 and RO041-048004), church (RO041-048007), castle (RO041-048001), fortified house (RO041-048005), bawn (RO041-048002) and walled garden (RO041-048014). A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development and will be submitted with the Planning Application. The planning application and Natura Impact Statement may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Bernard Keane For and on behalf of Athleague Tidy Towns / We Are Athleague Athleague, Co. Roscommon

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL. I, Pearse Flanagan, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish fire damaged dwelling house and to construct replacement dwelling, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Carrigeenacreeha, Ballinagare, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 X673.

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 Lohan Planning & Design Consulting Engineers, Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 085 1756190 Mob: 085 1584081 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Kevin Roddy, intend to apply for Permission for development at Ishlaun, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. The proposed development will comprise: Agricultural building of 209m2 for storage and maintenance of Farm Machinery. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 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. Signed: Kevin Roddy.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We Stephen Mannion and Carolyn O’ Malley intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect a dwelling house, garage, construct an effluent treatment system and carry out all necessary works to facilitate same at Fearagh, Ballymurray, Roscommon, 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: Stephen Mannion & Carolyn O’ Malley.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Aine Connaughton intend to apply for planning permission at: Cloonark, Athlone, Co.Roscommon for, construction of one new dwelling comprising single storey section and a two storey dormer section, garage, waste water treatment system and the sharing of existing the access off the R446 road. A new setback gate with splayed wing walls will be provided to the existing access, together with all associated and ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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

James Lohan Planning & Design Consulting Engineers, Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 085 1756190 Mob: 085 1584081 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie

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Signed: Aine Connaughton

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I Brendan Kildea intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect a dwelling house and to carry out all necessary site works at Beechlawn Drive, 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: Brendan Kildea.

Deadlines for advertising is strictly 2 pm on Tuesdays

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Dermot and Deirdre Siggins, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission at Castlestrange, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon, F42 RT78 for development consisting of: 1. The change of use of the existing attached garage to habitable accommodation; 2. The construction of a ground floor extension and first floor extension to the existing dwelling; 3. The partial demolition of the existing domestic shed; 4. Alterations to the existing elevations and roof profile; and all associated site development works.

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advertising@ roscommonpeople.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.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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PLANNING NOTICES ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PROPOSED MATERIAL ALTERATIONS OF PROPOSED VARIATION NO. 1 TO THE ROSCOMMON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028 Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of Section 58 (13) of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (as amended) that, having considered both Proposed Variation No. 1 of the Roscommon County Development Plan 2022-2028 and the Chief Executive’s Report on Submissions Received on Proposed Variation No. 1, the Elected Members of Roscommon County Council resolved, at a Special Meeting of the Council held on 7th September 2026, to make modifications to Proposed Variation No. 1. The proposed modifications, which have arisen following the consideration of submissions and observations received during the statutory public consultation process, are material in nature and therefore constitute Material Alterations of Proposed Variation No. 1.

• In writing, and addressed to: ‘Proposed Material Alterations of Proposed Variation No.1 to the Roscommon County Development Plan 2022-2028’, Forward Planning Section, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 VR98

Public Display

The Closing Date for submissions is 4:00pm, Monday 19th October, 2026.

The Proposed Material Alterations, accompanied by the SEA Screening Determination and the SEA Environmental Report (including information on the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the proposed Material Alterations), and the AA Screening Report and the AA Screening Determination, will be available for public display and may be inspected from Friday, 18 September 2026 to 4pm Monday, 19 October 2026 (inclusive) at: (I)

Online on the dedicated Roscommon County Development Plan website at www.rosdevplan.ie (RCDP 2022 2028 – Variation No. 1) Or

(II) Roscommon County Council premises (during normal office hours) • Planning Section Reception, Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, F42 VR98 • Roscommon County Council Area Offices in Boyle and Monksland

Emailed or Late Submissions will not be accepted Please note, only submissions that specifically relate to the Proposed Material Alterations will be considered. Other non-related submissions will not be accepted. Submissions / observations must quote the relevant Proposed Material Alteration reference number(s). Please note: • It is intended that all valid submissions received by the Council shall be published on the dedicated Roscommon County Development Plan website (www.rosdevplan.ie) within 10 working days of receipt. This is an open and public process, therefore your submission will be available to view online. • All submissions should include your name and address, and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent. To assist Roscommon County Council in complying with data protection legislation, you are asked to provide this information on a separate sheet.

• Roscommon County Libraries – Boyle, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Roscommon and Strokestown General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Making a Submission or Observation Written submissions or observations in respect of the Proposed Material Alterations only may be made to the Planning Authority during the period Friday, 18 September 2026 to 4pm Monday, 19 October 2026 Written submissions or observations should be clearly marked ‘Proposed Material Alterations of Proposed Variation No.1 to the Roscommon County Development Plan 2022-2028’ and must be submitted by one medium only i.e. either:

The processing of your personal data will be carried out in accordance with Article 6 (1)(e) of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) regulations. For further information on how Roscommon County Council processes Personal Data, please see our Privacy Statement by clicking the following link: https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/freedom_of_information/data%20protection/privacystatements/parent-privacy-statement-roscommon-county-council.pdf

• Online by visiting: Variation No. 1 RCDP 2022-2028

Mark Keaveney Director of Services 18 September 2026

BUSINESS NEWS

To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie New website launched for Ireland’s Greenways

A new national website bringing together information on Ireland’s Greenway network has been launched by Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien (pictured). Greenways.gov.ie provides information on completed routes, facilities, visitor amenities and travel-planning options across the country. The website was unveiled at the National Active Travel and Greenways Conference in Cork. Minister O’Brien said €360m has been allocated for walking and cycling infrastructure during 2026. Information on individual Greenways will include route details, maps and facilities such as toilets, water fountains and playgrounds, with further routes to be added as the national network expands. The minister said the site was intended to make it easier for people to use Greenways for both travel and leisure.

Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory’s ambitious development plan

Half of US multinationals in West and North-West plan to increase employment

Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory Ltd is progressing an ambitious development project at its existing facility in Magheraboy, Ballaghaderreen, which will see the company establish a dedicated equine slaughter and processing line. Known as ‘Project Equine – Derreen Meats’, the project represents a signiﬁcant step in the company’s strategy to diversify its operations, develop new markets and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the business. The development is being supported through the 2023-2027 LEADER Programme, under the Economic Development and Job Creation theme. The current phase of the project focuses on the installation of specialised equipment required to establish a fully compliant equine slaughter and processing operation. Peter Cunniffe of Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory Limited said, “This investment represents an important milestone for our business. It allows us to diversify our operations, develop a specialist service and create a strong foundation for future growth here in Ballaghaderreen.” Ballaghaderreen Bacon Factory

Half of US multinational companies surveyed in the West and North-West expect to increase employment in the region over the next 12 months. The remaining 50% expect to maintain current employment levels, according to new ﬁndings released by the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland. However, cost pressures are emerging as a major concern, with 83% of respondents in the region identifying cost competitiveness as the main challenge Ireland needs to address to support further expansion.

Ltd. expects the development to provide a unique specialist service within the Irish meat-processing sector and to serve a niche market across Ireland. The investment will allow the company to broaden its existing activities while making more efﬁcient use of its facilities and infrastructure. Tomás Beades, operations manager with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, said, “The development of a dedicated equine processing line represents a

signiﬁcant investment in the future of the business and enterprise development in the region. “The specialist equipment will allow us to establish a safe, efﬁcient and fully compliant processing operation, with animal welfare and traceability at the centre of the development. Projects such as this demonstrate the potential for rural businesses to diversify, innovate and develop new opportunities within their local communities.”

Infrastructure constraints and trade tariffs were each cited by one-third of respondents as risks to continued foreign direct investment. AmCham also highlighted quality of life as one of the region’s strengths, with Roscommon among the Irish counties performing strongly in recent work-life balance rankings. More than 32,500 people were employed by IDA client companies in the West in 2025, according to ﬁgures highlighted by the organisation.

Carrick-on-Shannon man launches DoneNow local jobs platform A Carrick-on-Shannon entrepreneur has launched a new online platform aimed at connecting people who need everyday jobs completed with workers in their local area. Alex Hanly, 25, is the founder of DoneNow, a website where users can advertise jobs and local workers can respond. The service works through a

phone’s web browser and does not require users to download an app. Mr Hanly said the platform has already attracted users locally and is intended to provide a simple way of ﬁnding help for everyday tasks while creating opportunities for people looking to pick up work. DoneNow is available at donenow.ie.

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

Down to business end! SEAMUS DUKE looks ahead to this weekend’s Hodson Bay Hotel SFC quarter-finals Strokestown v Castlerea St Kevin’s in Ballyforan on Friday at 8 pm What a feast of football lies ahead for supporters this coming weekend. This clash could be one of the highlights of the lot as the sides look very well matched. Castlerea are improving with every game. After losing to St Faithleach’s in round one, they recovered well to defeat Elphin and were unlucky not to have got more than a draw against Oran in their final group game. Dara Curran has been magnificent for Dara Bruen’s side while others like Sean Joyce, John Curran, Jonathan Hester and the full-forward line of the three McDermotts – Adam, Darren and Aaron – have been performing well. Strokestown have been very solid in the championship so far. After winning their opening two matches, they pushed St Brigid’s all the way in the final group game, only losing by a point. There are lots of familiar names on the Strokestown team sheet like Niall Curley, Davy Neary (who might not feature), Colin Compton, Colm Neary, Diarmuid McGann and Shane McGinley. The midfield partnership of Colm Neary and the returned former county star Thomas Corcoran have been especially impressive in recent matches. Strokestown look the better bet and I take them to advance by three or four points. Prediction: Strokestown.

Pádraig Pearses v Michael Glaveys in Lisnamult on Saturday at 3.30 pm Another cracking game is in prospect here. Glaveys have yet to play to their potential in this year’s championship and they will need to if they are to win this clash. There are good players in almost every line on this Glaveys team. Conor Hussey, Dylan Ruane, Niall Heneghan, Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Cathal Heneghan, Daniel Hagney, Darragh Heneghan, Tiernan Murphy and Rob Heneghan all have inter-county experience and would get on any team in the county. In my humble opinion Pádraig Pearses have played the best football of the championship so far. Yes, they were defeated by Clann na nGael, but that was a ‘dead rubber’ in that it was a game they didn’t need anything from. Against Boyle and Roscommon Gaels they played some superb stuff with the quick transition from defence into attack and some brilliant accurate

passing features of their play. The platform for them has been their half-back line of Jack Nevin, Ronan Daly and Davy Murray, and when you add in the likes of Caelim Keogh, Declan Kenny, Paul Carey, Jack Tumulty and Eoin Colleran, it all adds up to a potent mix. If Glaveys can raise their game we can anticipate a real cracker here. On the evidence of what we have seen so far Pearses should be good enough to get through to the last four. Prediction: Pádraig Pearses.

Oran v Boyle in Elphin on Sunday at 1.30 pm This is the hardest senior quarter-final to call as there is a strong case to be made on behalf of both sides. Boyle have been inconsistent so far, but on their best day they are a match for anyone. They will have Enda Smith back and that will be a huge boost. Donie Smith, Cian McKeon and Daire Cregg will also have huge roles to play for Fergal O’Donnell’s men in the Boyle attack. The midfield clash of Oran’s Ciaran Lawless and Michael Staunton and the Boyle duo of Roch Hanmore and Niall O’Donnell will also be crucial. Oran have been free-scoring. The likes of Charlie Carthy, Darragh Walsh, Eoghan Murray and James Fitzpatrick have been very impressive so far. Further back the field, Thomas Fetherstone and Colin Walsh have been playing well, but they will have their hands full on Sunday. This promises to be a fascinating duel and could well be a high-scoring affair given the number of talented attacking players on the field. Extra-time cannot be ruled out. I’m giving Boyle a hesitant vote to edge it. Prediction: Boyle.

Roscommon Gaels v St Brigid’s in Woodmount on Sunday at 4.30 pm The Gaels will be rank outsiders here, but that could be their biggest asset on the day. No one will give Decie Hoare’s men any chance of knocking the champions out. The town team will relish the challenge. St Brigid’s have been sailing along in the campaign so far, and while they have not been scintillating, they come into the quarter-ﬁnals unbeaten. They have so many household names that will feature again here, players like Conor Carroll, Brian Stack, Robbie Dolan, Pearse Frost, Conor Hand and Ben O’Carroll, the latter having returned to his best form in this championship.

Colm Neary (in action earlier this season)… a key figure for Strokestown when they take on Castlerea St Kevin’s this Friday evening. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

The champions are missing both their county midfielders, Shane Cunnane and Eddie Nolan. The very experienced duo of Ruaidhrí Fallon and Mark Daly will probably feature in that sector on Sunday. If so, their clash with Senan Lambe and Rory Carthy will be crucial. The Gaels will look on this as a ‘free hit’ on Sunday. They have been inconsistent this year and were well beaten by Pádraig Pearses in round one. They had an excellent win against Clann na nGael, but went down to Boyle in round three, while they had little trouble with North Roscommon in the preliminary quarter-final. Michael Gillooly will be back from suspension, which is a boost for the outsiders. Eoghan Carthy is back fit again and that will add greatly to their chances. John McManus, Senan Lambe, Rory Carthy, Peter Gillooly, Richie Walsh and John McGuinness have all been playing well but the Gaels will have to produce their best display in a number of years if they are to dump St Brigid’s out of the competition on Sunday. I’m expecting the Gaels to make this a close game but Brigid’s look to have too much firepower and experience and they are taken to advance to the semifinals. Prediction: St Brigid’s.

Unfamiliar customers enter ‘last chance’ saloon! Hodson Bay Hotel SFC relegation final: St Faithleach’s v Clann na nGael in Kiltoom on Friday at 8 pm  SEAMUS DUKE

This is a massive game for these two clubs with the losers destined to drop to the intermediate grade in 2027. It’s a shock that both sides are in this situation. St Faithleach’s were oddson favourites to defeat Elphin in their ﬁnal group match but they went down by a point and then they were defeated by Western Gaels by ﬁve points in the relegation play-off. St Faithleach’s are short a number of players – notably Cian Glennon. They will look for inspiration from Ciaráin and Diarmuid Murtagh, Colm Mangan, Darren Nerney, Johnny Hussey and Dave Rooney, amongst others. Losing to both Roscommon Gaels and Boyle is why Clann are in this

position. It’s almost unthinkable that the former kingpins of Roscommon club football could ﬁnd themselves playing intermediate football next year. They will be hoping that players like Darragh Pettit, Paddy Gavin, Ultan Harney, David McManus and Ciaran Lennon can come up trumps. These two teams have been involved in several memorable championship clashes over the years and this one promises to be just as intense given how high the stakes are. Any team with Ciaráin and Diarmuid Murtagh on board cannot be dismissed. However, on form, Clann look the better side and best equipped to survive. Prediction: Clann na nGael.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

SportsPeople

Countdown to Creggs RFC Bragging rights go to Sligo Quid Games Fundraiser BUCCANEERS RFC

Buccaneers and Sligo served up a decent contest in the final round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League played at Dubarry Park on Saturday when the visitors edged the verdict on a 28-21 scoreline. On a warm, dry afternoon, both teams were relatively evenly matched and perhaps a draw would have been a fair reflection on the proceedings. JUNIORS: On a sunny and breezy afternoon, Buccaneers Juniors got their act together in the second half of their Bank of Ireland Christy Reid Cup fixture played at Dubarry Park on Saturday when the homesters ran out 21-5 victors. Buccaneers juniors complete their Bank of Ireland Christy Reid Cup fixtures with a home game against Galwegians at Dubarry Park on Sunday. This match has a 12 noon kick-off and the Pirates will be focussed to secure victory and maintain their top two berth. GRAND DRAW: Return flights, hotel accommodation and the all-important match tickets for two persons for all Ireland’s 2027 World Cup pool games in Australia is the star prize in this year’s ‘Your Club Your Country’ Grand Draw. There are 12 super prizes in the draw, including rugby, golf and racing packages and also a cash prize of €3,000. Tickets are only €10 each and all monies raised by ticket sales in the club goes to the club. It is great value and ‘win win’ all round. Tickets can also be purchased online but please ensure you click on Buccaneers link if buying tickets via Gala Bid. BRUFF UP: Buccaneers commence their Energia All-Ireland League 2026-27 campaign at home to Bruff on Saturday week when the action kicks off in Dubarry Park at 2.30 pm. The club is hosting a pre-match function in The Bounty for this game and all support will be greatly

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON O.B.N. SERIES GRAND FINAL: The club’s third O.B.N. Series Grand Final took place in excellent conditions, with players enjoying a dry and calm day. Thanks to Barry and everyone who erected the signage around the new first tee, Kevin and the course team for presenting the course in excellent condition, Frank Duffy for preparing the scorecards and driving range, and all members and O.B.N. Financial staff who helped with preparations on the day. Thanks also to Carmel Taylor and Murrin O’Boyle for their help throughout the event, and to Deborah, Adam, Erin and Conor for their work before and during the final. Only three players improved their handicaps, with the new first tee adding an extra challenge to the competition. Congratulations to overall winner Mark McShera and fellow prize winners Leo, Sam, Jim and Tom. Thanks also to everyone who attended the after-party at The Tipsy Tailor. GOLF CLINIC: The club welcomed leading amateur golfer Aoife Kelly for a golf clinic on Thursday, September 3rd. Originally from Galway and now based in Dubai, Aoife took up golf just five years ago and currently plays off a handicap of +1.6. The clinic was particularly aimed at junior girls and women who have recently taken up the game or are considering doing so. The evening proved a great success and the club thanked Aoife for giving her time. GOLFER OF THE YEAR: Ladies Gross winner was Ann Keenan (105 pts). 2nd: Phil Emmett (74 pts); 3rd: Siobhan Talbot (66 pts). Ladies Golfer of the Year: 1st: Mary King (59 pts); 2nd: Mary Molloy (44 pts); Joint 3rd: Frances Molloy and Phil McWeeney (40 pts). Gents Seniors: Joint 1st: Francie Foley and Shay O’Connor (381 pts); Joint 2nd: Seamus Mulhern and Tony Woodhead (372 pts). Gents Gross: 1st: Niall Keaney (40 pts); 2nd: Daniel Egan (38 pts); 3rd: Charlie Boyle (38 pts). Gents Golfer of the Year: 1st: Mark McShera (45 pts); 2nd: Kevin Gilboy (27 pts); 3rd: Niall Keaney (26 pts). THOMAS HIGGINS: The club congratulates

James Kelly has been named as Buccaneers senior captain for the coming season. welcomed. Contact our Administrator Geraldine at 086 1732711 to book or for further information. NEW CAPTAIN: James Kelly has been named as Buccaneers Senior Captain for the coming season. The south Roscommon forward is a popular and deserving choice to captain the club. Prop ‘Skelly’ plays with great commitment and passion and will be a well respected leader on and off the pitch. Best of luck, James, in your role in which you will be supported by Vice-Captains Corey Reid and Conor Sheehan.

Creggs RFC has always believed that the strength of its community is measured not only in victories on the field, but in the spirit of unity, generosity, and compassion that brings people together. This October, that spirit takes centre stage with one of their most ambitious fundraisers yet – the Creggs RFC Quid Games Fundraiser – taking place at the Mattie McDonagh Centre, Ballygar, on Saturday, October 10th 2026. Doors open at 7 pm and the games begin at 8 pm sharp. This promises to be a night of entertainment, fun and energy. Contestants will battle it out through a series of light-hearted challenges inspired by the hit ‘Squid Games’ format. The real winners will be the charities, the club and the community the club serves, who will benefit from the funds raised. The club has several projects that the fundraiser will help to support, including the provision of solar panels to provide sustainable energy to the club and includes other essential infrastructure improvements. These new developments will reflect Creggs RFC’s long-term commitment not only to player development but also to inclusion, accessibility and community participation. This Quid Games event carries a strong charitable focus. From the funds raised, over €10,000 will be given in prize money to the winning contestant to give to their chosen charity or club. Speaking about the event, Shane Fleming,

Chairperson of Creggs RFC, highlighted the work of volunteers and the importance of community support. “Events like this don’t just happen – they’re built on the dedication of our volunteers, our sponsors and the local community. Every person involved, whether they’re organising, competing or simply buying a ticket, is helping to make a real difference. “Giving back has always been part of what Creggs RFC stands for and this fundraiser is another way of showing that commitment in action.” The ‘Quid Games’ format has been gaining popularity across Ireland as a unique way for clubs and charities to raise funds while offering great entertainment. Contestants take part in a series of physical and mental challenges, designed to test their teamwork, balance, focus, and nerve – all in good humour. Mr Fleming added that the sense of cooperation among club members and the community has been remarkable. “The response has been fantastic. We’ve had people offering to help in every way possible – from logistics and sponsorships to setting up the venue and selling tickets. It really shows the strength of this community.” Tickets for the night are available through any committee member, the contestants, or in O’Rourke’s shop in Creggs, the cafe at Creggs RFC and other local businesses. For further event details, visit clubspotevents.ie/ clubs/creggsrfc/.

s t t u p t r o h S

Roscommon Golf Club member Thomas Higgins on recently turning professional. Carrickon-Shannon-based company Cora Systems is sponsoring Thomas on his bag. The club wishes Thomas every success as he begins his professional career. SENIORS: Week 37. Overall winner: Pat Gannon (44 pts); Cat. 1: Frank McGrath (35 pts); Cat. 2: Seamus Mulhern (36 pts); Cat. 3: Eamon Costello (35 pts). Front 9: Pat Gannon (19 pts); Back 9: Sean McMonagle (18 pts). KIERAN’S PHARMACY: Thanks to Brendan Kieran of Kieran’s Pharmacy for sponsoring last weekend’s gents competition. 1st: Niall Hanrahan (42 pts); 2nd: Peadar Griffin (40 pts); Gross: Brian Beirne (30 pts); 3rd: Steve Doherty (39 pts). THANKS: Thanks to Carmel and everyone at Lunney’s Filling Station for sponsoring the ladies’ competition. 1st: Patrice Gallagher (41 pts); 2nd: Phil Emmett; Gross: Ann Keenan; 3rd: Frances Molloy. The Lady Captain’s Away Day takes place at Farnham Estate next Sunday. Wednesday Scramble. 1st: Anne McGourty, Anne Guckian and Mary Maguire (32 nett); 2nd: Carmel Stritch, Helen Feely and Ruth Creamer (34 nett). 50/50 DRAW: The 66th draw was held in Taylor’s Bar, Drumsna on September 13th. Philip Lowe, Carrick-on-Shannon, was the winner of €610. Thanks to everyone for their continued support.

Liam Casey (37 pts). LADIES: Tuesday 18-hole. Overall winner: Bernie Maher (37 pts); Cat. 1: Sine Lennon (36 pts); Cat. 2: Joan Hannon (31 pts). 9-hole: Kate Walshe (18 pts). Foursomes 18-hole. 1st: Colette Glynn and Marina Cribbon (67); 2nd: Mary Lalor and Margaret Brennan (67.5); 3rd: Deirdre Judge and Carol O’Donnell (71). Saturday 18-hole: 1st: Marina Cribbon (67); 2nd: Rosemary O’Brien (74); 3rd: Laarni Beattie (77). SENIOR MEN: Overall winner: Maurice Buckley (32 pts); Cat. 1: Jackie Kilroy (32 pts); Cat. 2: Padraig Walshe (30 pts); Cat. 3: John Earley (32 pts); Cat. 4: Tommie Murphy (32

(News from local golf clubs)

pts). Deuces: Frank Nally, Jackie Somers, Noel Sharkey and Michael Oates. SENIOR LADIES: 1st: Anne Varley (23 pts); 2nd: Detta Cox (21 pts); 3rd: Margaret Madden (20 pts); 4th: Cliona Baker (20 pts); 5th: Mary Mullen (20 pts). THOMAS HIGGINS: Well done to Thomas Higgins on his first tournament as a professional at the Amgen Irish Open in Doonbeg last week. Thomas carded rounds of 74 and 71 but finished outside the cut mark. He will now turn his attention to earning a DP World Tour card at qualifying school in Spain next month. OLIVIA COSTELLO: Olivia Costello competes in the French Amateur Open this week. We wish her the very best of luck.

ROSCOMMON MEN: Open Friday sponsored by GoTo Finance. 1st: Tom McGuinness (40 pts); 2nd: John Collins (40 pts); Gross: Richie Evans (37 pts). Weekly competition sponsored by Down The Hatch. Overall winner: Paulie Hoare (44 pts); Cat. 1: Aidan Donnelly (41 pts); Cat. 2: John Carr (40 pts); Cat. 3: Eamonn Smith (38 pts); Gross:

Pictured at the recent inter-county golf tournament in aid of Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre were Gerry Flanagan, Eamon Henry, Joe Hogan, Tony Kenny, and John Newton. The team finished in a very creditable fourth place. The event was held in The Black Bush Golf Club in Dunshaughlin in Meath.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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SPORTS DESK Paul Healy

It’s not me, it’s you: the GAA and McAleese part ways Divorces can be messy. So it was last week when Mary McAleese walked away from the GAA integration process in a blaze of acrimony. Appointed four years ago to chair the board charged with overseeing the amalgamation of the GAA, the LGFA and the Camogie Association, McAleese has now decided to walk away from the project. It is understood the catalyst for her resignation was the GAA’s confirmation that it was not in a position to meet the 2027 timescale for amalgamation. It is now obvious that there were serious tensions between McAleese and the GAA leadership in recent months. Ideally, McAleese would have stayed on and tried to work through the difficulties. Instead, undoubtedly deeply frustrated with the slow rate of progress, she chose to walk away. Whatever their view on the nature of McAleese’s resignation, even her critics would surely acknowledge that the former President of Ireland put four years of work into the role. Of course nobody could say that Mary

McAleese went quietly. In opting out, she did not hold back. She left in anger, while making scathing criticism of the GAA, particularly of the association’s management committee. She also effectively accused the GAA of misogyny. On one level, all of this has catapulted the lack of progress into the public domain, arguably bringing a necessary spotlight to a stand-off that had been festering in private. At the same time, the manner of McAleese’s departure was divisive and damaging. Divisive, because it will heighten tensions between the various stakeholders, damaging, because it may, ironically, contribute to the delay in the planned merger being completed. That remains to be seen. McAleese was entitled to walk away if she felt frustrated with what she saw as a lack of commitment on the GAA’s part. But I feel that a more diplomatic and less divisive resignation would have served the interests of the integration process much better. The concern now is that, after last week’s very public row, a process which has already taken years to advance may have suffered a serious setback – one that could take years to overcome. A period of reflection is now required. The GAA insists it remains committed to integration, but that complex challenges remain. As the GAA sees it, the 2027 deadline was far too ambitious. The message from the GAA seems to be: There is a lot of work to be done, but we are absolutely up for it. Just give us more time. The GAA now needs to convince people that it means what it says.

Not crossing ‘The Bridge’ when they came to it… I’m not really a fan of the horror genre, so

it’s just as well I didn’t see any footage of Chelsea v Leeds in the EFL Cup last week. After a good start to the Premier League season, Leeds faced an imposing challenge in the third round – away to Chelsea. As is the modern-day norm for Premier League clubs in cup competitions, shadow teams were fielded. Still, irrespective of the personnel involved, on checking the score I was thrilled to discover that Leeds were 2-0 up with 50 minutes gone. What could possibly go wrong? Sport is fun, sport is cruel. Chelsea sent the often brilliant Cole Palmer on from the bench, he netted twice in three minutes, and the resurgent home team went on to score six goals in 42 minutes, winning 6-3. For a Premier League team to concede six goals in one half of football was quite bizarre. I consoled myself with a brief ‘It’s only the EFL Cup’ train of thought. We move on. Sport is fun, sport is cruel! *Update: Since I wrote this lament on ‘The collapse at Stamford Bridge’, Leeds have bounced back with a superb 4-1 win over Newcastle in the Premier League. Who really cares about the EFL Cup anyway?

Taylor fight: After the final bell RTE’s coverage of the recent Katie Taylor farewell fight at Croke Park attracted a huge 74% share of the available viewing TV audience. The event had an average audience of 973,000, peaking at a remarkable 1.6m viewers (possibly dipping earlier when Michael Flatley and Marty Morrissey had their silly interaction in which they half-danced; the footage of same is not to be viewed by the faint-hearted). Meanwhile, it’s reported that the event brought a €15m boost to the Capital (or 5% of what

Diarmuid Fallon and Cillian Crehan pictured having fun during the recent Roscommon SHC double bill in Ballyforan. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Flatley is estimated to have amassed during his career).

Amgen Irish Open was a great success The 2026 Amgen Irish Open was a great success. The field was arguably the strongest ever assembled for an Irish Open, the quality of golf was excellent, and tournament winner Shane Lowry delighted the home crowd with a scintillating performance. The presence of US President Donald Trump, owner of the venue, also provided a welcome boost to the tournament’s profile on the world stage.

Higgins makes promising pro start Roscommon Golf Club member Thomas Higgins, who turned professional last week, had a most encouraging ‘pro debut’ while rubbing shoulders with several major winners in last week’s Amgen Irish Open. While Higgins missed the cut, his rounds of 74 (conditions were far from ideal on Thursday) and 71 were very solid initial outings in his professional journey. Moreover, there were flourishes of brilliance during both rounds. It’s not as if his opening-day 74 was just a standard ‘14 pars & four bogeys’ effort. In fact, Higgins made the turn in his first ever professional round in an impressive 2 under, before suffering on the back nine. Indeed Higgins had an eagle on the par 5 8th hole. Overall, this was a very steady first outing at this level for Thomas, and in exalted company. He finished three shots clear of both Padraig Harrington and Tyrrell Hatton, and outscored 5-time major winner Brooks Koepka by one shot on Thursday!

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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Pretenders eye vacant throne LGFA round-up

St Croan’s narrowly miss out on IFC semis

KEVIN EGAN

The semi-final line-up in the Hannon’s Hotel IFC has also been confirmed with Pádraig Pearses playing host to Michael Glaveys tomorrow night (Friday) while Kilbride will travel to Northern Harps on Sunday, September 27th. In an incredibly tight three-way battle for third and fourth place and the semifinal berths that came with them, it all came down to two close-range frees in Kilbride’s home tie against St Croan’s. The West Roscommon club knew they needed a win to be sure of knockout football and they had the better of the contest for long stretches, inspired by Leah Malone (0-4), and Sinéad Kenny, who started in goal but came outfield to kick two crucial second-half points. Kilbride’s doggedness kept them in the game, trailing by two (0-11 to 1-6) going into the last couple of minutes. Aisling Hanly delivered a moment of magic when she fired a 13m free over the heads of half a dozen St Croan’s defenders and into the roof of the net to nudge her side into the lead, and while Ella Thompson had the chance to reply in kind, her effort fizzed over the crossbar to give St Croan’s a draw on the day, but a result that was ultimately of no use. Michael Glaveys knew their fate was in their own hands and they duly took care of business against Western Gaels, prevailing by 7-8 to 2-7 at Ballinlough. The result also means that Western Gaels will drop to the junior grade for 2027.

The crashing noise that reverberated across the county of Roscommon at lunchtime on Sunday was the sound of county champions St Brigid’s crashing out of the John Keane Kia SFC, following their seismic 4-10 to 2-10 defeat to St Dominic’s at Kiltoom in the quarter-final (see report elsewhere in this edition). While St Dominic’s were the winners on the day, the result means that Boyle are now widely seen as the favourites for the Marie McAleer Cup after they negotiated a tricky challenge against a defensive St Ciarán’s team at Abbey Park. Stellar defensive work from Ger Dowd’s visitors helped to curb the threat posed by county star Aisling Feely, but Michaela Ward (0-4) and Caoimhe Cregg (0-2) stepped up to the mark for Boyle, while Megan McKeon oversaw an equally watertight defensive effort. 16-year-old Katie Conroy has delivered some crucial scores for her club this year and her palmed goal in the 45th minute turned a tie that looked like it might go down to the wire, with just two points between the teams at that stage. Instead Boyle finished with five points on the trot to march with confidence into their semi-final clash with Éire Óg on the weekend after next, while St Dominic’s will now play Clann na nGael.

Shannon Hibbitt and Aoife Burke gave Glaveys the dream start with early goals and while Western Gaels hit back with 1-2 to narrow the gap, the contest swung decisively in favour of the home side with three crucial scores in the space of 90 seconds. Shauna Fleming got the ball rolling with a green flag, Aoife Burke added another superb individual goal and a Joanne Daly point kept up the momentum for Glaveys, who led by 4-6 to 1-3 at the turnaround. Pearses will go into that semi-final on the back of a fifth win in a row, though the 2-12 to 0-10 scoreline in their tabletopping clash with Northern Harps was slightly flattering, and it remains to be seen how solid the form is, given that both sides were assured of home semifinals. Lauren Shanagher with 0-6 was the leading light for the home side at Elphin but Harps left a good few scores behind them, and thanks to a first-half goal from Blathnaid Kelly and a late 1-3 from Laura Glennon off the bench, it was last year’s beaten finalists who prevailed.

All roads lead to (Four) Roads One round of group games remains to be played in the Castlerea Vehicle Recycling Junior Championship this coming weekend and the meeting of Four Roads and Kilglass/Kilmore should be the tie with the most significance. The North Roscommon amalgamation

Action from last Sunday’s Roscommon LGFA Senior Championship quarter-final between Boyle and St Ciarán’s. Shauna Fitzmaurice fends off the tackle of Roisín Wynne. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell will need to shake off a poor showing Sandra Keane and Gráinne Cribben got on Sunday in Kilglass where Louise the goals in St Mary’s 7-11 to 0-5 win Brady (3), Niamh Feeney, Kate Murray, over an injury-hit home team. Kate Murray burnished her reputation as one of the county’s leading threats from outside the arc with another twopoint free for a St Mary’s side that will be expected to make it six wins in succession when they host Castlerea St Kevin’s this Sunday. Castlerea are out of contention, after a toothless first-half performance in which they scored just a single point, left them too much to do against St Faithleach’s. It finished 1-7 to 0-5 in favour of the Ballyleague club, who have their fate in their own hands when they go up to play St Michael’s/St Ronan’s. It was another story of so near but yet so far for the Saints, as they were only a goal adrift of a strong Oran team with 40 minutes played, but 0-11 on the spin from Oran left it 2-18 to 1-7 at the long whistle, with Hazel Kelly at midfield and Niamh Walsh up front, scorer of 1-9 in all, the leading lights for Oran. The Junior ‘B’ Championship is also taking shape and it’s the two ‘first’ teams, Roscommon Gaels and Strokestown, who secured home advantage for the semi-finals by rounding off perfect group records with wins. Roscommon Gaels racked up a 4-13 to 0-3 win over Clann na nGael to set up their meeting with St Brigid’s, but it was much tighter in Kiltoom on Friday night where Máire Mullooly made some vital saves in the Strokestown goal, Sarah Dixon controlled midfield for the visitors and Nicole McGinley’s four points were the difference in a 1-13 to 0-12 win for the black and amber.

Action from last Sunday’s Roscommon LGFA Senior Championship quarter-final between Boyle and St Ciarán’s. Boyle’s Katie Conroy palms Aisling Feeley’s pass to the net for the game’s only goal. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Please see https://roscommonlgfa.ie/ fixtures-2026/ for all updated fixtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank John Keane Kia, Hannon’s Hotel and Castlerea Vehicle Recycling for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

SportsPeople

Shock and awe!

St Dominic’s stun champions John Keane Kia Roscommon LGFA SFC quarter-final St Brigid’s 2-10 St Dominic’s 4-10 < KEVIN EGAN AT KILTOOM

St Dominic’s wielded the knife in Kiltoom on Sunday, so the crown will rest upon a new head in Roscommon this autumn. Or to use a more accurate metaphor, St Dominic’s wielded the chloroform rag, asphyxiating their hosts – who simply couldn’t muster up the fighting spirit needed for a game where Kaitlyn Egan’s hat-trick caught the eye – but it was all about St Dominic’s running the highlighter pen over ‘dog’ in the word underdog. The mantle of favouritism in the race to succeed St Brigid’s as champions will now pass to Boyle while Clann na nGael’s experience and guile (not to mention their long track record of knocking over St Dominic’s in semi-finals) will mark them out as the biggest threat to the Abbey Park club, but the

sheer grit that St Dominic’s displayed here means that they look more ideally poised than ever to break through their semi-final ‘glass ceiling’ and to give themselves a chance of winning a first ever senior club title. Hannah O’Connor set the tone with an early turnover win, Áine O’Meara somehow extricated herself from a committee of four St Brigid’s defenders that lacked conviction in the tackle to set up an early goal for Kaitlyn Egan, and the versatile wing-forward doubled her personal tally with a ground shot that crashed into the net via the crossbar in the fifth minute. St Brigid’s successfully put out this fire, hitting back with 1-4 in a row. Kara Gallagher contributed 1-1 while Alison Nugent’s two points could just as easily have been one green flag and one white one, with Áine O’Brien also hitting the crossbar. However, the problem for St Brigid’s against a St Dominic’s side that came into this game on the back of three comprehensive defeats, the most recent by a 15-point margin, was that the can was open and

the worms were everywhere. Aidan Connaughton’s side were now full of belief, and they continued to win the scraps, most notably when Lilly Murray somehow kept an attack alive while surrounded by three players, yielding the penalty that Aimee O’Connor converted to help make it 3-4 to 1-6 at half-time. St Brigid’s weren’t miles off their opponents from general play, but they just couldn’t find a way to address their issues. Kate Nolan was switched to full-forward but they quickly realised that her influence was sorely needed in the middle third where so many other key players were misfiring, and if Kaitlyn Egan ghosting in to score two firsthalf goals was an egregious failure, allowing the same player to net again to start the second half was a capital offence. Without ever looking like themselves, St Brigid’s got a stay of execution, and when Kate Nolan floated in a 30-metre free that took a last-second deflection past Rachel Corcoran, they were back within three points and salvation was at hand.

That was until Ria Lennon’s yellow card a couple of minutes later, and against a side that was already in possession of a clear edge when it came to competitive edge, an extra player was all St Dominic’s needed to tag on the last three points through Michaela Lohan, Aimee O’Connor and Aoife Gavin, emphatically completing their act of regicide as they did so. St Brigid’s: Holly Martin; Áine McGrath, Aoibhe Lennon, Shauna Francis; Ciara Walsh, Ria Lennon (0-1), Sally O’Hara; Marian Nolan (0-1), Abby Curran; Claire Grehan (0-1), Alison Nugent (0-2), Kate Nolan (1-1, 1-1f); Lucy Sheffield (0-2, 0-1f), Kara Gallagher (1-1), Áine O’Brien (0-1). Subs: Aoife Minnock for Gallagher (39), Joanna Hughes for O’Hara (54). St Dominic’s: Rachel Corcoran; Laoise Mahon, Michelle Rogers, Claudine O’Connor; Caroline Dowling, Niamh Fitzgerald, Hannah O’Connor; Anna Campbell, Áine O’Meara (0-2); Kaitlyn Egan (3-0), Aimee O’Connor (1-2, 1-0 pen, 0-1f), Michaela Lohan (0-1); Lilly Murray, Niamh Watson, Aoife Gavin (0-5, 0-2f). Sub: Hannah Murray for C O’Connor (52). Referee: Aaron Clogher (Pádraig Pearses).

Stat Attack Wides: St Brigid’s 5; St Dominic’s 9 Red cards: 0 Yellow cards: St Brigid’s 1 (R Lennon, 53); St Dominic’s 0 Player of the Match Kaitlyn Egan (St Dominic’s)

Fuerty set up Dominic’s date McNulty’s Furniture Roscommon IFC play-off Fuerty 0-15 St Brigid’s 0-9 < KEVIN EGAN AT BALLYFORAN

Action from last Sunday’s Roscommon LGFA Senior Championship quarter-final between Boyle and St Ciarán’s. Rachel Fitzmaurice tries to dislodge the ball from Aisling Feeley. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

GAA round-up In the McNulty Furniture IFC preliminary quarter-final in Ballyforan last Friday night, Fuerty defeated St Brigid’s by 0-15 to 0-9 (see report). In the relegation semi-final in the IFC, St Barry’s easily accounted for Pádraig Pearses, winning by 3-22 to 0-6 in Creggs. Cian Quinn was the scorer-in-chief for St Brigid’s with 2-4, while Eoin O’Connell got the third goal. Pearses now face St Croan’s in the final relegation play-off this weekend. In the King & Moffatt JFC preliminary quarter-final in Strokestown, Boyle defeated St Ronan’s by 1-9 to 0-7. The only goal of the game came late in the second half from Boyle sub Mark O’Donohoe. Boyle will play Kilglass Gaels in the quarter-final this weekend.

Underage GAA In the Connacht Gold Division Two Minor Football final Kilbride continued the revival in the club’s underage fortunes when they defeated Oran/St Croan’s by 3-18 to 1-17 in a decider played in Ballyforan on Saturday last. The amalgamated side scored a goal after 20 seconds through Dan Monaghan but Kilbride recovered quickly and assumed control. Goals from Luke Shally and Thomas Lohan followed and they scored ten points without reply to move into a 2-12 to 1-4 lead at the break. Kilbride went further ahead on the restart and a Harry Trimble goal helped them into a 3-14 to 1-4 lead after 40

minutes. Oran/St Croan’s then surged back. Ultimately Kilbride had more than enough scores in the bank and they prevailed by seven points in the end. In the Division Three final St Brigid’s pulled away in extratime to defeat Boyle in Enfield. Final score: St Brigid’s 5-13 Boyle 1-15. This was a thrilling game with the sides level at full-time, St Brigid’s 3-8 Boyle 1-14. Hugh Loftus got an early goal for St Brigid’s but Boyle were ultra-competitive and a two-pointer from Ryan McPherson and a goal from Kyron Downes saw them lead at half-time by 1-9 to 1-4. Conor Casey kept Brigid’s in the hunt with a fine goal but Boyle looked the likely winners with four scores without reply. Another Casey goal brought St Brigid’s back into it and a late two-pointer from Thomas Carberry sent the game to extra-time. St Brigid’s dominated in extra-time and goals from Casey (his third) and Donnachadh O’Dwyer saw them over the line. A goal from Matthew Fox in the 4th minute of injury-time gave St Brigid’s a sensational one-point victory in what was a thrilling U-14 Division One football final played in Woodmount last Thursday evening. Final score: St Brigid’s 2-13 Clann na nGael 4-6. Clann led for most of the way and were 4-6 to 1-7 ahead after 45 minutes but that late rally – which yielded 1-6 – saw St Brigid’s over the line. In the U-16 Division Two final Kilbride were 0-14 to 0-9 winners against Kilmore/Shannon Gaels in Strokestown.

It felt appropriate that after a turbulent group campaign where Fuerty looked excellent against Éire Óg but a long way short of that in their subsequent contests that on Friday night they laboured heavily against St Brigid’s for most of the first half before finally finding the form they needed to secure a knockout clash with St Dominic’s this weekend. On the form that Fuerty showed over the last 35 minutes of this tie, where they came from 0-5 to 0-2 behind to rack up what proved to be a comprehensive win, they will offer a tough test to the erstwhile championship favourites. If they replicate their sluggish play from the start of the tie, they’ll do well to keep the ball kicked out to the Knockcroghery side. Some credit must of course go to St Brigid’s, who had a dominant half-back line in Davy Cunniffe, Alan Daly and Brian Nestor, and who built on that to establish a strong platform. Nestor and Conor Gleeson kicked the best of their points, but with neither side threatening from outside the arc, points from John Brennan and Colin Murray in the closing minutes left the game finely poised at half-time. The third quarter was more armwrestling, with a needless hold on Cormac Lavin giving Gearóid Ennis the chance to raise the only orange flag of the game from a free. Lavin, Cian Murray and Eoin Ward were starting to grow into the game while Owen Rogers was a constant threat in the right corner, scoring five points in total which included one from play and two frees that were awarded for fouls committed against him.

After missing a couple of scorable chances in the first half, Gearóid Ennis landed a couple of points to give Fuerty some breathing room going into the closing minutes, and while a goal could well have changed the game, St Brigid’s never really threatened to create a good goal chance and ultimately finished the contest with just three points from play. Eamon Cunnane’s black card stacked the deck against the Kiltoom club even further, allowing Fuerty to kick three points in the closing five minutes to see out a deeply forgettable, but eminently valuable victory. Fuerty: Joe Fallon; John Brennan (0-1), Darragh Heavey, Martin Connaughton; Eoin Ward, Philip Neilan, Brendan Mullen; Niall Keenan, Eamon Bannon; Cormac Lavin (0-1), Cian Murray (01), Colin Murray (0-1); Tadhg Lyons, Gearóid Ennis (0-5, 1tpf, 0-2f), Owen Rogers (0-5, 0-4f). Subs: Cathal Crehan (0-1) for Lyons (58), Kenneth McCormack for Bannon (60+2), Keelan Duke for Keenan (60+2). St Brigid’s: Evan Gallagher; Shane Keenan, David Dolan, Ciarán Quinn; Davy Cunniffe, Alan Daly, Brian Nestor (0-1); Daniel Meeley, Eamon Cunnane; Conor Gleeson (0-2), Cathal Dolan, John Cunningham; Daniel Keenan (0-6f), Kian Mulligan, Brendan Murphy. Subs: Conor Quinn for Murphy (49), Paddy Higgins for Meeley (53), Gavin Byrne for Cunningham (57) Referee: Brendan Beirne.

Stat Attack Wides: Fuerty 10; St Brigid’s 6 Red cards: 0 Black cards: Fuerty 0; St Brigid’s 1 (Cunnane, 53) Yellow cards: Fuerty 0; St Brigid’s 1 (C Dolan ,60+1) Man of the Match: Cormac Lavin (Fuerty)

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

SportsPeople

Price proves costly for Gaels as Pearses win thriller Connacht Gold Roscommon MFC Division One final Pádraig Pearses 2-16 Roscommon Gaels 2-12 (after extra-time)

Kevin Egan at Ballyforan The lights in Ballyforan had to go on long before the end of Friday evening’s county minor final, but it felt like there was no need to waste the increasingly valuable kilowatts, because from the very first few minutes this game was illuminated by the brilliance of John Price. The wiry and elusive centreforward, who marked himself out as a hugely promising prospect when he picked up player of the match honours in last year’s Connacht minor final win over Mayo, produced another majestic display of scoring to set Pádraig Pearses on their way to their fifth ever Roscommon MFC title and their first since 2015. Roscommon Gaels had the greater balance, they had impact off the bench, they had more possession and they had a greater array of different ways to attack Pearses, but none of that could compensate for Price’s ability to make something special happen and bend the game to his will; most importantly for his second goal, scored with eight minutes to play in normal time. At this stage Roscommon Gaels were on a run of 1-5 unanswered, with substitute Sam Hannon transforming their fortunes and helping push the town side six points clear. The screw was turning, but one wonderful moment was about to transform this contest. Seán Finneran and Aaron O’Connell both did incredibly well to work the ball up the right-hand sideline from Niall Doran’s kickout, but Price still had three defenders

to beat when he took the ball on at full speed. He kept two very sticky defenders in Daniel Fleming and Eli Okambawa at bay while getting his shot off just as Adam Killian came sprinting across to try and execute a block. From a tight angle on the 13m line, Price’s strike was inchperfect, fired low across Andrej Anic into the bottom corner. Once Aidan Óg Gallagher followed up with the next point, the momentum of the tie had well and truly shifted back in Pearses’ favour. Two Daniel Goode frees, the second of which was awarded for a trip on Price, levelled the game and despite a couple of hairy moments for both defences, extra-time was on the cards. Noah Glennon and Seamie Carthy traded points at the start of overtime but Price once again stepped up approaching half-time in extra-time, striking two frees, one from outside the arc, to give Pearses a little bit of breathing room. The Gaels were unlucky to lose Adam Killian to injury at that stage as the joint captain had been pivotal to their play, but they also can look inwards when they conduct their post-mortem as they just left too many chances behind them, while Pearses also fared much better at addressing the weaknesses that materialised in the opening half. In contrast, the fires that were burning a hole in Roscommon Gaels’ chances of winning were allowed to blaze away. A sensational start where Price

kicked a point off either foot and then intercepted a high-risk lateral sideline ball from Daithi Kelly to slam in a goal gave Pearses five points worth of breathing room, but by half-time it was Roscommon Gaels who led a low-scoring encounter, and they were full value for that narrow advantage. Killian, Darragh Killeen, Daithi Kelly and Michael Byrne were all pulling their weight and more in the kickout battle, with Niall Doran only able to connect with a red jersey when he opted for short restarts. On most occasions when he did that, the ball was turned over before it found its way through to the dangermen at the other end. Cian Kiernan was an excellent ‘out ball’ for Roscommon Gaels close to goal but the real cheat code was the towering presence of David King on the edge of the Pearses square. The attacker, who had deceptively good hands and feet to go with his altitude, scrambled in a goal and generally caused carnage when the right ball was sent his way, and this became one of the problem areas that Pearses had to address. The decision to switch Seán Finneran and Jason Carty worked well in at least stemming the tide as Finneran fared much better on King – albeit the rangy forward still ended up with 1-4 – while Carty helped to balance the scales in the middle when he got stuck into breaking ball skirmishes. Euan Kelly and Donnacha Monaghan were others who were throwing themselves into the

fray to try and give Pearses a bit more possession, and four of the first five points of the second half went the way of the boys in red. Price landed a two-point free that was awarded for a foul on Enda Browne, but while the Roscommon county wing-back showed flashes of his running ability, it was still patently clear that he wasn’t at full strength while he played his first competitive football match since the All-Ireland quarter-final against Derry. Meanwhile Roscommon Gaels kept Sam Hannon in reserve, and once he was introduced, his impact on the game was immediate. Fellow sub Eoin Naughten got the Gaels back to within a point from a tricky angle on the right wing, then Hannon hoisted over a two-pointer before sending in another high ball that yielded a point for King. In the space of 20 seconds Roscommon Gaels turned a save from Andrej Anic at one end into a goal for Hannon at the other, facilitated by Daniel Nerney’s pinpoint long ball and Cian Kiernan’s slick turn and pass to set up the rolling finish. With a six-point cushion, it was going to take something truly special to prevent the Gaels from taking over from Castlerea as county kingpins at this age grade. Fortunately for Pádraig Pearses, a truly special player was on the cusp of delivering a truly special moment that would definitively change the course of this final.

John Price… scored 2-9 in last Friday’s County Minor Football final. File photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Teams and scorers Pádraig Pearses: Niall Doran; Keelan Doran, Jason Carty, Patrick Barrett; Seán Finneran, Euan Kelly, Enda Browne; Emmet Killeen, Jack Brooks; Donnacha Monaghan, John Price (2-9, 2tpf, 0-1f), Aaron O’Connell; Noah Glennon (0-1), Aidan Óg Gallagher (0-1), Daniel Goode (0-5f). Subs: None. Roscommon Gaels: Andrej Anic; William Godfrey, Conor McNeill, Eli Okambawa; Daniel Fleming, Adam Killian, Daniel Nerney; Darragh Killeen (0-1), Michael Byrne; Daithí Kelly, Seamie Carthy (0-4, 1tpf, 0-1f), Cathal Nerney; Cian Kiernan, David King (1-4, 0-1m), Sam Walsh. Subs: Sam Hannon (12, 1tp) for Walsh (37), Eoin Naughten (0-1) for Kelly (42),

Walsh for C Nerney (64), Jack Finn for Killian (HT in ET), Darragh Donoghue for McNeill (79), Ronan O’Donnell for Kiernan (79). Referee: Mark Grehan (St Brigid’s).

Stat Attack Wides: Pádraig Pearses 7; Roscommon Gaels 15 Red cards: 0 Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: Pádraig Pearses 1 (Brooks, 58); Roscommon Gaels 2 (Fleming, 27; Carthy, 74) Player of the Match: John Price (Pádraig Pearses)

This weekend’s IFC and JFC action previewed < BY SEAMUS DUKE Kilmore v St Michael’s on Friday in Strokestown at 8.15 pm Kilmore, the ultimate championship warriors, will be the underdogs when they face St Michael’s in the last eight. Kilmore caused a shock when they defeated Fuerty and then went on to draw with St Croan’s. Talisman Paul Garvey is out with an injury and he will be a huge loss to them. St Michael’s will be looking to Fiachra Henry, Alex Oates and Sean Farrell for inspiration. Kilmore will battle hard but St Michael’s should emerge victorious. Prediction: St Michael’s. Éire Óg v Shannon Gaels on Saturday in Boyle at 6 pm It has taken a while for Éire Óg to get up to

championship speed following their surprise defeat to Fuerty but they are looking sharp again with Conor Cox, Jamesie Greene, Denis Barron and Jason Doory all impressing. Shannon Gaels will be competitive and will be looking to the likes of Nikita Berzins, Darragh O’Beirne, Evan Corcoran and Conor Kelly on the day. Éire Óg look strong and they should prevail. Prediction: Éire Óg. St Dominic’s v Fuerty on Saturday in Kiltoom at 7.30 pm This is a very attractive mid-Roscommon derby in which both sides will fancy their chances. St Dominic’s come into the game unbeaten after three good wins. Eoghan McCormack and Keith Doyle are the main inspirations for them while Mark Miley, Jack Lohan, Daire Keenan, Cian Duggan and Ronan KIlcline are all fine footballers.

Fuerty will be depending on tried and trusted performers like Darragh Heavey, Philip Neilan, Eamon Bannon, Gearoid Ennis and Tadhg Lyons (if fit). St Dominic’s look the better bet. Prediction: St Dominic’s. Creggs v Tulsk on Sunday in Enfield at 3 pm

Another very close encounter is anticipated here. Tulsk, one of the title favourites, have been improving since losing their opening game against St Dominic’s. Evan Flynn, Dylan Gaughan, Tadhg O’Rourke and Kieran Donoghue have been playing well for Liam McNeill’s men and Thomas O’Rourke is prolific up front. Shane Dowd has been the main man for Creggs while James McKeague, Thomas Crean, Mark Dowd, Enda O’Rourke and Darren Gately have been prominent. There

won’t be a lot in it. Tulsk get the nod to advance. Prediction: Tulsk. King & Moffatt JFC quarter-finals The first of the JFC ‘A’ quarter-finals sees the clash of the second teams of Clann na nGael and Western Gaels in Castlerea on Saturday at 5 pm. Clann should have the edge in this one. There is a cracking game in prospect in Tulsk at 6 pm on Saturday when Kilbride face favourites Ballinameen. Don’t rule out a shock Kilbride win here as they are going well. In a local derby in Johnstown on Sunday (1.30 pm), St Aidan’s should be too good for neighbours St Brigid’s, while in Elphin on Sunday (3.30 pm) Kilglass Gaels will be hot favourites to edge out Boyle’s second team. They should deliver.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

SportsPeople

Roscommon Masters in Shield final All-Ireland Masters Football Shield final: Roscommon v Meath in Drumlish on Saturday at 3 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon Masters football team will play Meath this Saturday in the All-Ireland Shield final with hopes high that they can bring silverware home for a second successive season. Roscommon lost the 2021 and 2023 plate (third tier) finals before making it third time lucky with victory in 2025 when they defeated Armagh in the final in Kiltoom (1-15 to 0-10). A powerful second-half performance secured the title for Roscommon, with the Connacht team outscoring their opponents by 1-9 to 0-4 during that period, Paul Gilleran scoring the only goal of the game. With the Plate success memorably achieved last year, Roscommon competed at ‘Shield’ level this season, this being the second tier of Masters football. Last weekend Donegal defeated Dublin in the final of the top tier competition. Roscommon actually reached the senior final two years ago, losing to Tyrone in Cavan, so there is no doubt that the county is building quite a profile at Masters level. The current crowded club fixture list has not helped the Masters’ in the build-up, as team manager Anthony Carroll explains. “I know that there is very little we can do about it but we have a number of players who will be playing for their clubs in the championship this weekend. For instance Senan Kilbride will be on duty for St Brigid’s on Sunday and won’t be available (to us). He is a big loss to us. We have a few others who will be missing as well.” It’s been a good campaign for Roscommon so far, as Carroll confirmed. “We played six group games and we won four. We lost to Donegal who went on to win the All-Ireland last weekend, and we also lost to Sligo. We won all the other games. We beat Monaghan in the semi-final.” So how does he view the team’s prospects against Meath? Carroll admits

that the management team don’t know much about their opponents. “Most of their players used to play for Cavan because they didn’t have their own team, but they have their own side this year and they have the likes of Joe Sheridan playing for them so I presume they will be strong. We are looking forward to the challenge. The lads have been training hard and have put in a lot of work so hopefully we can do enough to win it on the day.” The Roscommon panel includes many well-known players who have played for the county at all levels. Amongst those involved are Sean Purcell (Boyle), Geoffrey Claffey (Castlerea St Kevin’s), Conor Beirne (Elphin), Richard Dooner (Kilglass Gaels), Dermot Foley (Kilmore), Cathal Dineen (Roscommon Gaels), Ian and Senan Kilbride (St Brigid’s), Seanie McDermott (Western Gaels), and Ger Heneghan (Garrycastle). Selector Liam Butler says that interest in Masters football is increasing every year. “When we started out a number of years ago there were just 11 teams but now there are 22 competing and the standard is improving every year. A lot of the players are still playing for their clubs, which is a big help.” Liam says that the new players on the panel this year have all contributed positively. “Aidan Dooney, Darragh Hussey and Seanie Purcell are only in this year but they are performing well. Something unique about Roscommon is that we have three sets of brothers on our panel – the Kilbrides, the Coxs and the McCormacks.” Butler was anxious to acknowledge the support the Masters have received. “We have received great support from our sponsors. We’d like to thank Roscommon County Board, Garvey’s Bar in Ballintubber, GRG Sports in Ballaghaderreen, and Dockery & Gorman Electrical Contractors” he concluded. Celebrating at the final whistle after Roscommon’s recent All-Ireland Shield semi-final win over Monaghan.

The 2026 Roscommon panel

Action from Roscommon v Mayo in June.

The 2026 Roscommon panel is as follows: Sean Purcell, Aaron Sharkey, David Kelly, Mark O’Donoghue, Seamus Keane, Roch Hanmore (Boyle), Sean Ryan, Geoffrey Claffey (Castlerea St Kevin’s), Jason Carney, Conor Beirne (Elphin), Tom Bannon, David Delaney, Niall Connolly (Fuerty), Richard Dooner, Gerry Nugent (Kilglass Gaels), Dermot Foley, Garry Connellan, Paddy McCormack, Damien Tiernan (Kilmore), Paul Foxe, Anthony McDermott (Kilbride), Alan Daly (Michael Glaveys), Sean Fahy, Paul Kelly (Pádraig Pearses), Cathal Dineen (Roscommon Gaels), Terence Kelly (St Adian’s), John Murtagh, Tony Fallon (St Barry’s), Cormac Sheehy, Senan Kilbride, Ian Kilbride, Robbie Kelly (St Brigid’s), Gerry Leech, Joseph Towey, David Hussey, Brian Mullen (St Croan’s), Ultan Kelly (St Dominic’s), Darragh Hussey, Aidan Dooney, Adrian Murtagh (St Faithleach’s), Paul Gilleran, Ronan Beirne (St Joseph’s), Neil Cox, Ronan Cox (St Michael’s), Michael McNama, Eddie Noone (St Ronan’s), Damien Caslin, John McHugh (Strokestown), Stephen McCormack (Tulsk Lord Edwards), Adrian Frayne, Sean McDermott (Western Gaels), David Scahill (Shandonagh), Ger Heneghan (Garrycastle). Manager: Anthony Carroll (Kilmore). Selectors: Damien Garvey (St Croan’s), Declan Woods (Éire Óg), Liam Butler (Elphin).

Roscommon GAA County Board chairperson Thomas Murray and vice-chairperson Frank Egan pictured presenting a set of jerseys to Roscommon Masters captain, Paul Kelly, with vice-captain Michael McNama, players and management also in picture.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2026

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