Roscommon People - 19 December 2025

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The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

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GARDEN NEILAN’S EQUIPMENT ROCKFIELD, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 N510 Tel. (090) 662 7460 • Email: neilanelectrical@gmail.com

Book Your Winter Service Now Garden Blowers & Hedgecutting Equipment in stock

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie 19 December 2025

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 968

• Mountfield Ride-ons • Cramer Battery equipment & Blowers

TOMMIE KELLY ELECTRICAL

Winter Flu & Covid Vaccination

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

Outdoor Tiles now in stock

Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE

Do you need your domestic appliance repaired?

If so contact us!

McGUINNESS

090 66 34465 tommiekelly.ie

Pharmacy

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

Frances’

A very Happy Christmas to all our customers and best wishes for the New Year

Finishing Touches

Christmas Gifts In Store Contact Frances on 087 6500931 Open 9.30 - 6.00 pm

The Square, Roscommon

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931

Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores

* SHOP OPEN SUNDAY 1-5 *

Flu Vaccination Service

Ward's

Adults and Children No appointment needed

Tel. 090 663 7602

Kieran Healy from Croghan and his children, KJ, Koda, and Mia enjoying the Music Generation Roscommon performance at the Christmas Market, at Market yard, Carrick-on-Shannon. Pic: Brian Farrell

CASEY’S

Goff Street, Roscommon.

T. 090 6630831

GIFT SETS still available

ROSCOMMON

Green Diesel

96.9c per litre

wi th

Kerosene

89.9c per litre (Prices correct at time of going to print)

Finn Electrical Goff Street, Roscommon

Tel. 090 66 25573

Call to store

– loads of Christmas Specials

SEE BACK PAGE FOR OFFERS

Learn to drive with

SATURDAY, 17th JAN 2026

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

SPECIAL GUEST:

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ALLPERSONAL PERSONAL INJURY MATTERS: ATHLONE ALL INJURY MATTERS: ALL PERSONAL INJURY MATTERS:

Road Traffic Accidents, Workplace Accident, Road Traffic Accidents,Child WorkplInjury ace Acci dent,Claims Child Injury Claims Road Traffic Accidents, WorkplaceinAccident, Injury Claims Accident PublicChild Places, Medical Accident in Public Places, Medical Accidents, Injury Board Applications Acci d ent i n Publ i c Pl a ces, Medi c al Acci d ents, Inj u ry Board Applications Accidents, Injury Board Applications Road Traffic Accidents, Workplace Accident, Child Injury Claims

ALL PERSONAL INJURY MATTERS:

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ROSCOMMON BYRNE CAROLAN CUNNINGHAM LLP SOLICITORS BYRNE CAROLAN CUNNINGHAM LANESBOROUGH DRIVING BYRNE CAROLAN CUNNINGHABYMRNELCALRPOLLP LSANOCSOLICITORS ULNINCINIGTHAOMRLLSP SOLICITORS GALWAY When Experience Matters SCHOOL Standing up for the small farmer on CAP

Accident in Public Places, Medical Accidents, Injury Board Applications lukeming lukemingflanagan lukemingflanagan lukeming.flanagan@europarl.europa.eu

CONTACT: 087 2295551

When Experience Matters

LANESBOROUGH MOATE GALWAY

LANESBOROUGH Phone: 090-6478433 • Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie • Web: www.bccsolicitors.ie

*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

GALWAY When Experience Matters 9:30am - 4:30pm When Experience Matters 094 962 2710 | 094 962 2244 | 086 368 5680 Phone: 090-6478433 • Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie • Web: www.bccsolicitors.ie Constituency Office: Priory House, Barrack St, Phone: 090-6478433 • Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie • Web: www.bccsolicitors.ie *In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a Castlerea, Co.*InRoscommon contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Phone: 090-6478433 • Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie • Web: www.bccsolicitors.ie

of orany award or settlement *Inpercentage contentious business, or a solicproportion itor may not calculate fees other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

e l p o e WATCHING P With PAUL HEALY

AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

090 647 8433

Defective www.bccsolicitors.ie Product

A defective product liability claim arises when a person suffers an injury because of a product design or manufacturing error. Any products produced or sold in Ireland should not cause an injury, provided the product is used correctly and as instructed. If you have received a personal injury because of a faulty, damaged, or incorrectly advertised product you may be entitled to compensation. d Any products manufactured, assembled, or imported into the European Union are governed by EU Directives to protect consumers from injury. In Ireland, the Liability for Defective Products Act, 1991 provides that the manufacturer of a product will be held responsible for any injury or property damage caused by a product defect.

There are a number of defects which may make a product unsafe to use. The most common are: Manufacturing Defects A manufacturing defect can occur when defective components are used in the manufacture of a product. Alternatively, poor workmanship or poor quality, cheap materials may have been in the construction of the product.

Marketing Defects Companies are obliged to warn consumers about known hazards and dangers surrounding the use of their products. Any such failure to warn may give rise to a product liability compensation claim. This is one of the most common types of product defect.

CYCLING ACCIDENT

Last chance… or Last Supper?

If you were involved in a cycling accident contact

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Is Willie happy?

Huh? Willie O’Dea! Is he happy?

Eh… You do know that the Fianna Fáil report is out?

Yeah, of course I know that! I’m clued into everything and anything that moves politically!

Indeed!

Actually, I received one or two leaks from the report over recent days!

Really? From what source?

Now you know that a good journalist never reveals their sources! Or a good columnist!

So in that case…

All I’ll say is I knew what was in that report before Micheál Martin did!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to watch the World Darts, and discuss the previous night’s Man Utd-Bournemouth thriller) So… is Willie happy?

Huh? Micheál Martin HAS to keep Willie happy!

If he can’t, then the Taoiseach’s in trouble!

Nah, Willie’s not the political force he once was!

My friend, don’t underestimate the power and influence of that moustache!

So let’s go over it all again…

Oh dear, must we?

Micheál Martin wanted Jim as his candidate.

That’s the former Dublin football manager…

Yes, yes! Then the vetting began…

How thorough was the vetting?

Eh… they asked Jim if he had any skeletons in the cupboard, so to speak!

(They pause to re-read the 28-page report, with Boyo 1 playing the theme music from Jaws on Spotify)

AND? And, he probably said ‘Nothing in the cupboard only seven replica Sam Maguire cups!’

Huh! Anyways, you were asking?

The vetting?

Oh yeah, well, the real game-changer was when a journalist emailed FF HQ and started mentioning… an issue with a tenant!

Not just any journalist! It was Fionnán

Design Defects This occurs when a product design is inherently dangerous. This may include a scenario where the risks of using a product outweigh its benefits e.g., drug side effects.

So… is Micheál Martin safe?

Not sure!

Is Willie happy?

Not sure!

Is Billy Kelleher happy with the report?

Not sure!

Timmy Dooley?

Timmy’s happy, he’s all over the radio again!

By the way… you mentioned Peter’s denial of Jesus three times… and Jim Gavin’s alleged five denials…

Yeah?

If I was Micheál, I might be a bit worried… that all happened around the time of the LAST SUPPER!

☺

It’s been a GOOD week for…

One very lucky Irish lotto player, whose EuroMillions ticket, bought at a Lidl near Cavan, hit a €17m jackpot days before Christmas!

LEGAL ADVICE If you suffered an injury because of a defective product contact us today in the strictest confidence on 090 6478433. Our expert team of Solicitors are on hand to speak with you. Your call will be dealt with in a sensitive and confidential manner.

Luas Green Line users, as services “gradually” started to resume this week after a power outage caused the tram to be suspended during the rush hour commute last week, the disruption lasting a full day

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

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

☹

It’s been a BAD week for…

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who is facing renewed public scrutiny this week following the publication of Fianna Fáil’s review of the party’s botched presidential campaign

SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

LOCALLY OWNED AND IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY!

Sheahan! Are you sure he emailed his query, or did he get his chauffeur to deliver it by hand?

Leave Fionnán alone! Now, back to the thoroughness of FF’s internal modus operandi!

Oh please, less of the Latin! So how thorough were the FF backroom people?

Er… based on Fionnán’s teasers, they asked Jim if there was any outstanding historical issue with a tenant, any rent owed, etc!

AND? He said no… five times!

FIVE times?

Yes, five times he denied the arrears…

Huh! Like in the bible, and Simon Peter denying the Lord three times?! That Jim Gavin must have thought he was God! (Editor: Enough! This is getting ridiculous!)

PIC OF THE WEEK: Pictured at last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green were Creggs supporters Ivan, Conan and Ruth Kelly.

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

The BBC, who have been handed a $10-billion lawsuit from US President Donald Trump in response to the editing of a speech he made before the 2021 attack on the Capitol

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP Solicitors appoint new partner Award-winning law firm Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors has promoted one its senior solicitors to the position of partner within the firm.

Tina Dolan joined the practice in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in the areas of conveyancing, wills, probate, and estate planning.

Tina specialises in all property transactions to include purchases, sales, mortgages, re-mortgages, farm and site transfers, and advises clients comprehensively in the preparation and drafting of wills, estate planning, and probate applications.

Tina is from Knockcroghery, County Roscommon and has over 20 years’ experience assisting local clients. She is a keen GAA fan and is involved in many local committees.

Brian O’Brien (partner) said that, “Tina’s knowledge and expertise together with her client-centred approach have been a huge asset to the firm, and it is our pleasure to have her now progess to the position of partner.”

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors have enjoyed continued success this year, earning the title of Leinster Law Firm of the Year at the prestigious Irish Law Awards, in addition to the award for Leinster Property

Bridge club results The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Margaret Egan & Olive Fahy; 2nd: Valere & Pat Finneran; Gross: Maurice Buckley & Larry Shine.

Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Judy Adamson & Veronica McManus; 2nd: June Halliday & Tommie Murphy; Gross: Maurice Buckley & Larry Shine.

Ballymurry Bridge Club. (Christmas Prizes). 1st: Peggie Kelly & Anthony Mahony; 2nd: Jill Farrell & Pat Lyons; Gross: Ann Shine & Kathleen Corcoran; 3rd: Jane Hunt & Annette Gaffney.

Kilbride Bridge Club – (North/South) 1st: Brid Gillooly & Frances Keane; 2nd: Jane Hunt & Annette Gaffney. (East/West) 1st: Anne Igoe & Margaret Mullen; 2nd: Pauline Donoghue & Martina Fallon.

Don’t miss 2025’s last Courtyard Market!

TOP: Leading law firm Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors recently promoted one of its senior solicitors to the position of partner within the firm. RIGHT: Pictured is Tina Dolan, who was recently made partner at Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors.

Law Firm and Leinster Medical Negligence Law Firm. They were also most recently recognised at the Athlone Chamber of Commerce Awards as Professional Service Provider of the year in the medium to large firm category, in addition to being named Legal Firm of the Year

at the Midlands 103 Customer Service Award.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP have offices at Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. To contact them, phone their central line on 090 6478433 or email info@bccsolicitors.ie to contact any of the team.

Gift the Beauty of Plants Beautiful indoor and outdoor plants Seasonal containers for instant colour Gift Tokens and much more Open Christmas Eve 9am-3pm Café closed from 23rd Dec (Reopens 3rd Jan)

Quality•Value •

Ardcarne Garden Centre

newsbriefs

Wishing you and your family a very

Happy Christmas

Choice • Advice

We’re here to help

www.ardcarne.ie

At two great locations: Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Rd., Roscommon Town Tel: 090 662 7700 Open Monday to Saturday 9-6pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-6pm

Discover amazing local produce, gifts, treats, and more for Christmas at the Courtyard Market in Boyle this Saturday, December 20th – the last market of the year!

The market will run from 10 am to 2 pm at the King House Grounds (F52 FW01). It promises to be a great day, packed with delicious bakes, organic food, handmade crafts, natural skincare, art, gifts, and festive inspiration – plus live music and family-friendly fun. Don’t miss out!

Lisnamult Indoor Market on Sunday

The Lisnamult Indoor Market will take place on Sunday, December 21st, in Lisnamult Community Centre, Lisnamult (F42NN72), Roscommon from 11 am to 3 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Christmas Day Service at St Coman’s Church

‘Hark the herald angels sing!’ – Christmas Day Service will be held at 11.30 am at St Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon Town. All are welcome.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

GIFTS FOR HIM THIS CHRISTMAS Open Sunday 1.30 – 5.30 pm FREE PARKING IN ROSCOMMON TOWN

www.donnellan.ie | 090 6626334

New 10-year license for RosFM RosFM has been awarded a new 10-year broadcasting license by Coimisiún na Meán which will secure the future of the county’s only community radio station until at least 2035.

RosFM began broadcasting in 2004 and has been in operation ever since. The station now broadcasts from its new studios at The Cube building on the Lanesborough Road, Roscommon. The current manager of the station is David Creighton.

Representatives from RosFM, led by board chairperson Bernie Kearney, were in Dublin on Monday to sign the new contract.

Speaking this week, Bernie Kearney said that it was a great day for the station and for everyone who had worked so hard to keep it going over the years.

“I want to thank everyone who has helped us so much over the years at the station and particularly the volunteers who have kept the station going through thick and thin.

“I also want to thank all the agencies like Coimisiún na Meán (formerly BAI), Pobal, and groups such as Roscommon LEADER, Roscommon County

Council, CRAOL (Community Radio Ireland) and many others who have been so co-operative over the years. We are delighted that we will be able to offer a service to the local community

over the next ten years” he concluded.

RosFM broadcasts Monday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm on the 94.6 FM frequency and online at www.RosFM.ie

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas from all at

The Harrison Centre Roscommon town

Roscommon community radio station RosFM signed a new 10-year broadcasting license earlier this week. Front row: Broadcasting Commissioner, Aoife MacEvilly (Coimisiún na Meán), Bernard Kearney (Chairperson of RosFM), Martina Dockery (Secretary of RosFM). Back row: Elaine King (Coimisiún na Meán) and Niamh Loftus (RosFM).

La st ch a n ce to m eet S a nt a th is S at u rday 19th & S u n day 20th from 11 a m to 5 p m

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

FRIDAY

TUESDAY

No offence

‘I have my full support’

For a couple of minutes this morning, our dog was barking relentlessly – as she always does when somebody calls.

By the time I got to the front door to investigate, the callers were gone.

Having picked up the literature they’d dropped into our letter box, I realised it was two Jehovah’s Witnesses I’d missed.

To clarify, our dog’s silly barking exhibition should in no way be construed as an anti-religious protest.

She barks just as persistently when the postman calls… every morning.

And he’s never engaged our dog in religion-themed conversation (that I’m aware of).

The Taoiseach has expressed confidence in himself as leader of Fianna Fáil. In a dramatic statement, he revealed: “I’ve had extensive talks with myself over recent days, and while this has been a frank and at times robust engagement, I am satisfied that the talks were constructive and it is now very clear to be that I am the best person to lead the party going forward. I have full confidence in myself. I have my full support. Jim who?”

TUESDAY Back to Bruno…

SATURDAY Dancing dross!

Out of habit, I dip in and out of the various categories on the RTE website (news/sport/entertainment, etc).

Sadly, this means I’ve occasionally ‘discovered’ who the latest ‘celebrity’ to join the new series of Dancing with the Stars is. The silliness starts on January 4th (I won’t be watching).

Here’s my latest betting odds – and not on who might win. Chances of a presenter ad-libbing: 500 to 1.

Likelihood of contestants making hand gestures to resemble dialling a phone: 1/50. First clichés to be uttered? 1/3: ‘Out of my comfort zone’; 1/1: ‘You really nailed it’; 2/1: ‘You remind me of a young Fred Astaire’; 1/33: ‘Please! Pass the remote control!’ (me).

SUNDAY Bondi Beach I endeavour to keep this column humorous, satirical, even occasionally absurd (humour-wise). But the world can be a dark place, and sometimes that darkness seems to overshadow everything else.

Today’s appalling news from Sydney has really resonated with Irish people. We have a long affinity with Australia… stretching over

centuries, and reinforced in recent decades with thousands of Irish people having moved there.

Many Roscommon People readers have been to Sydney – and to Bondi Beach. Many families from this region have relatives living there. No wonder the horrific terror attack at Bondi Beach today has struck a chord locally, as across Ireland.

15 people died after two gunmen targeted a Jewish celebration. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones.

SUNDAY Calling to Cryan’s Following a trip to Longford today, we took a long way home via Carrick-onShannon.

I recall Frances Cryan being an Olympian back in 1980 (obviously I was extremely young). Living in Rooskey, I remember the excitement on realising there was a local Olympian (Frances, a rower, was placed seventh in the single skulls event at the Moscow Olympics).

Subsequently, as Olympics fever gripped Leitrim, Frances went into the hospitality business. As the decades have passed, Cryan’s Hotel/Restaurant has become a very popular premises.

Today, we dropped into the renowned establishment in Carrick-on-Shannon.

As ever, there was a great buzz. The food served in the bar carvery was very enjoyable.

Coming back through Elphin, with a diversion into Strokestown, I was very impressed by the Christmas lights in both towns. In (loose) rowing parlance, these communities are clearly pulling together.

MONDAY Bruno: Hero or villain?

If Manchester United’s sporadically sulky star Bruno Fernandes was an actor, he’d more often than not be cast as the villain. Rightly so. He plays the part with seemingly effortless ease.

An exasperating man he is. If Bruno boarded a bus and an old lady didn’t give her seat up for him,

I think he’d whinge and wave his arms about in protest – and self-pity.

I’ve found it easy to dislike him, and yet, tonight I had an epiphany of sorts. Maybe I just got carried away with the twists and turns of a Premier League epic.

Manchester United were trailing Bournemouth 3-2, less than 15 minutes remaining in a Monday night Sky Sports thriller. That’s when the mercurial Fernandes produced a goal of such simplistic beauty, it almost took the breath away. It was a stunning free-kick – a marriage of precision and poetry.

In the moment – the Portuguese star stepping up when the Old Trafford devotees needed him – I couldn’t but admire ‘Bruno’. He may be prone to pettiness, but Fernandes illuminates the Premier League.

Part-icon, part-villain, he has star quality. And, to use a popular vernacular, he has balls of steel. That breathtaking goal made it 3-3. It ended up 4-4. Long live the beautiful game.

Last week, I gave the kiss of death to Ruby Wax. This week, it’s Bruno Fernandes. I see the Manchester United star, to whom I most graciously offered the hand of friendship on Monday evening, has now gone and had a right go at his club, taking a leaf from Mo Salah’s notvery-modest handbook.

What’s up with Bruno? He hasn’t even been dropped. It seems he’s annoyed that his club – Manchester United – allegedly wanted him to leave last summer, at a time when there was speculation that he might go to the Saudi Pro League. Now that he’s in full saviour form – undoubtedly having a good season for an erratic team – Bruno has chosen to speak out, no doubt to remind people of his worth.

Is he a real leader, or a great talent – with a brittle temperament – who cannot always be relied upon? I fear it may be the latter. For now, take it that I am withdrawing my short-term membership of the Bruno fan club!

WEDNESDAY Christmas Week edition A Christmas Week issue of the Roscommon People will be published on Monday next, December 22nd. News, sport and advertising copy will therefore need to be submitted to our office by 11 am on this Friday, December 19th. Thank you!

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

Christmas Edition Our next edition will be distributed and online on Monday 22nd December 2025.

Deadline for all copy for this edition is Friday 19th December at 11 am.

Our first edition of 2026 will be distributed and online on Thursday 8th January.

Council approves scheme to apply rates on vacant properties Roscommon county councillors have unanimously approved a new scheme aimed at tackling dereliction by imposing rates on long-term vacant commercial properties, with implementation delayed until 2027 to allow property owners time to respond.

The initiative seeks to discourage prolonged vacancy in business premises and encourage owners to bring properties back into active use. By applying rates to these vacant sites, the council hopes to prompt owners to release them onto the open market for rental or sale, boosting business growth through higher occupancy rates.

A further benefit highlighted during the presentation at the council meeting on Monday, December 15th, is the potential to remove properties from

the list of vacant commercial premises if they are no longer suitable for commercial purposes. This could free up sites for alternative uses, such as residential or community projects, providing greater flexibility for owners. However, it was stressed that the primary objective of the scheme is to stimulate uptake in vacant units and drive activity in town centres, rather than to delist properties.

The proposal, which received broad support, includes an additional proposal put forward by Cllr John Keogh. It calls for discretion to be exercised in cases involving owner-occupied properties that appear vacant, such as ground-floor retail units in mixed-use buildings where the owner lives upstairs. The council will now prepare detailed guidelines ahead of the scheme’s rollout in 2027.

Upcoming events in Keadue area

Music Generation Roscommon recently performed at the Christmas Market, at Market yard, Carrick-on-Shannon. Izzy Boucher gives a blast of Slade’s Christmas classic ‘Merry Xmas Everyone’. Pic: Brian Farrell

The annual Keadue 5K run/walk will be held on New Year’s Day, January 1st, at 12.30 pm.

In other news in Keadue, the SkreenDromard Drama Group from Sligo are set to stage a hilarious three-act comedy – ‘One Wife Too Many’

by Jimmy Keary – in the New Year.

The play will be performed in the O’Carolan Centre, St Ronan’s Hall, Keadue, on Saturday, January 10th 2026.

Doors open at 7.30 pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS

Community Monuments Fund 2026 Roscommon County Council in conjunction with the National Monuments Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage are inviting applications for the “Community Monuments Fund 2026”.

The Community Monuments Fund is prioritised for private owners and custodians and community groups for the care, conservation, maintenance, protection and promotion of archaeological monuments.

The core aims of the Fund are the conservation, maintenance, protection and presentation of archaeological monuments. It will: • enable conservation works to be carried out on monuments which are deemed to be significant and in need of urgent support; • build resilience in our monuments to enable them to withstand the effects of climate change; • encourage access to monuments and improve their presentation.

The Community Monuments Fund has 3 Streams: Stream 1 is aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation of archaeological monuments Stream 2 is for development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports/Assessments and detailed Specification of Works aimed at identifying measures for conservation and maintenance of archaeological monuments.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL HEADQUARTERS ÁRAS AN CHONTAE, ROSCOMMON TOWN, BOYLE, ROSCOMMON AND ATHLONE AREA OFFICES The offices are closed from 3.00pm on Tuesday 23rd December 2025 to Thursday 1st January 2026 inclusive.

The Motor Tax Office will close at 1.00pm on Tuesday 23rd December 2025.

Offices will reopen on Friday 2nd January 2026 Public Hours are 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Motor Tax Office is open 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday.

For emergencies please contact 090 66 37100.

LIBRARIES

Stream 3 is for enhancement of access infrastructure, interpretation projects and small scale emergency conservation works at archaeological monuments.

• Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Roscommon and Strokestown Libraries will be closed from 3pm on Tuesday 23rd December 2025, reopening Friday 2nd January 2026.

How do I apply?

Scheme information and Application Forms are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie or by contacting the Heritage Office on 090 6632513 or heritage@roscommoncoco.ie Applications shall be marked “Community Monuments Fund 2026” and submitted by email to heritage@roscommoncoco.ie before 5.00p.m. on Friday 30th January 2026.

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 ROADSROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 RoscommonCounty County Council has decided close road in the schedule hereunder Roscommon Council has decided toto close thethe road setset outout in the schedule hereunder for forperiods the periods andreason the reason specified. the and the specified.

Road Reference R369 Bellanagare to Elphin

Townland Cartronagor and Kilvoy

Closure duration 19th January 2026 – 10th April 2026.

Mark Keaveney Mark Keaveney Director of Services Director of Services Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Section of Closure

Proposed Diversion

Length of closure 570m and 350m, to run nonconcurrently.

Closure starting from the LS-5601 Junction with the R369, and finishing at the LS-60231 Junction with the R369

Diversion will be via the N5, onto the N61 at Tulsk.

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

• The final Mobile Library service stop of 2025 will be in Boyle on Monday 22nd December from 11am – 3pm.

The service will resume on Friday 2nd January 2026, where it will be in Boyle from 11am-3pm.

• Library Services will continue to be available online.

Visit https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/community/ library/ict_resources_in_libraries_/

CIVIC AMENITY SITES Christmas and New Year Opening Arrangements for Roscommon, Boyle, Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea Civic Amenity Sites are as follows: o Open Saturday 20th December 2025 o Open Monday 22nd December 2025 o Open Saturday 27th December 2025 o Open Monday 29th December 2025 o Open weekly from 8:00am – 4:00pm on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays (closed for lunch 1pm – 1:30pm) o Roscommon Civic Amenity Site open through lunch.

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE: MOTOR TAX OFFICE 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday.

ALL OTHER SERVICES are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday.

PHONE SERVICES AVAILABLE from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Phone: (090) 6637100 Email: customerservices@roscommoncoco.ie

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS - OPEN 7DAYS 4 Days Only 18th - 21st December

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49c EACH

ONLY WITH YOUR REAL REWARDS CARD/APP

1 Week Only 18 24th December th

SuperValu Irish Brussels Sprouts 500g - 98c/kg was €1.69

Paddy’s Share Irish Whiskey 70cl ONLY WITH YOUR REAL REWARDS CARD/APP

Fyffes Gold Supersweet XL Pineapple 1pce was €2.99

SuperValu Irish Parsnip Bag 500g - 98c/kg was €1.49

NON REAL REWARDS PRICE

99c EACH

SuperValu Irish Grown Carrots 1kg was €1.29

€27.50

SuperValu Yellow/Galia Melon 1pce was €2.49, Cantaloupe Melon 1pce was €2.29

SuperValu Signature Tastes LemonGold® Net 3pce was €1.45

HALF PRICE

NON REAL REWARDS PRICE

€22.39

REAL REWARDS PRICE

Now €16.95/kg SuperValu Fresh Irish Striploin Steak (Butcher Counter Only) was €33.99/kg

SuperValu Fresh Irish Smoked/ Unsmoked Ham Fillet ONLY €10 1.8kg - 2kg, €5.56/kg - €5/kg ONLY €14 2.9kg - 3.2kg, €4.83/kg €4.38/kg

1 Week Only 18th - 24th December Now €4.94 SuperValu Smoked Salmon 300g - €16.48/kg was €9.89

HALF PRICE

Heineken Lager Bottles 20 Pack 330ml Non Real Rewards Price: €3.79/ltr Real Rewards Price: €3.39/ltr

was €9.89

Fleming’s

(Details In-store or Online)

SHOP IN-STORE & ONLINE

Main Street, Roscommon

Offers valid from Thursday 18th - Wednesday 31st December 2025. Prices correct at time of Print Offers Are Exclusive To Stores Listed And May Not Be Available In Other Stores. Offers Subject To Availability. Pictures For Illustration Purposes Only. Enjoy alcohol responsibly. *Deposit applies to drink containers featuring the Re-Turn logo. 15c for 150ml - 500ml and 25c for 501ml - 3ltr.

Progress on new psychiatric unit for Roscommon Hospital Significant steps forward have been confirmed for the longawaited replacement of the acute psychiatric unit at Roscommon University Hospital (RUH), following direct intervention by local Fianna Fáil TD Dr Martin Daly.

The current 24-bed Department of Psychiatry at RUH has faced repeated criticism from the Mental Health Commission for being outdated and unfit for purpose, with issues including poor repair, inadequate privacy, and

non-compliance in areas such as premises and staffing.

On December 15th, it was revealed that a design team will be appointed by March 2026 to begin planning a new 50-bed acute inpatient psychiatric unit.

This development came after Dr Martin Daly, a GP from Ballygar who is a TD representing Roscommon-Galway, sought clarification directly from HSE CEO Bernard Gloster on the project’s status.

Dr Daly has been a vocal ad-

Roscommon University Hospital (RUH).

vocate for the upgrade, previously describing the planned 50-bed facility as a “gamechanger” for mental health services in the region. In October, he emphasised that the new unit, which includes provisions for a multi-storey car park, would modernise facilities, improve staff retention, and better serve patients and families across the West.

In November, during a Dáil debate, Dr Daly highlighted ongoing pressures on the existing unit, noting that up to a third of its beds are occupied by patients who could be supported in community settings if adequate resources were available. He also raised concerns about long waiting times for mental health assessments in emergency departments.

The project has seen several revisions, evolving from initial proposals for 35-40 beds to the current 50-bed plan, reflecting future population needs. Dr Daly has firmly opposed any suggestions to relocate the unit, insisting it remain at RUH to avoid further delays.

Beannachtaí na Nollag agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise do chuile duine Agriculture Committee: Championing Irish Agriculture & Fisheries International Trade Committee: Opening New Markets & Promoting Competitiveness Housing Committee: Reforming EU State Aid Rules & Cutting Red Tape To Accelerate Local Delivery.

Barry

COWEN MEP for the Midlands North-West

This is a political advertisement on behalf of Barry Cowen MEP. Published

by Barry Cowen MEP, European Parliament, Rue Wiertz 60, Brussels 1047.

Visit fiannafail.ie/transparency. Scan the QR code for further information.

10

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

ROBERT FLYNN

THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: 094 9620028 Offer you again the best value in town this Christmas

ROBERT FLYNN DOWN TO THE LAST OF OUR TOP CLASS

700ml Jameson ............................€23.00 See the best selection in town of Christmas Cakes, Plum Puddings, 700ml Hennessy...........................€24.99 THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: 094 9620028 Boxes of Chocolates, Tins of Biscuits, 1lt Smirnoff ........................€24.99 OfferVodka you again the best value in town thisChristmas Christmas Lights, Fibre Optic Trees, 700mlJameson Dunphy’s Whiskey ..............€17.99 LonginRed Candles ............................€23.00 See the best selection townChristmas of 12700ml x 1 Pint Bottle Smithwicks ........................... €38.00 COUGHS OR COLDS Christmas Cakes, Plum Puddings, 700ml Hennessy ...........................€24.99 See selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird 12 x 1 Pint Bottles Smithwick’s ....€29.99 Boxes of Chocolates, Tins of Biscuits, 1lt Vodka ........................€24.99 12 x Smirnoff 1 pint Bottles Guinness ............................. €38.00 Tryour our new Local Honey Christmas Cages, Lights, Fibre Optic seasons Trees,DogCastlerea Aquariums, Collars, Dog Leads, 700ml Whiskey ..............€17.99 Red Christmas Candles 1 Dunphy’s Pint Bottles Guinness .........€29.99 412x x 500ml Dutch Gold ............................................ €5.99Long Dog (limited amount).

Cushions, Dog Flea See our selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird Collars, Pony & Horse 12 x 1 Pint Bottles Smithwick’s ....€29.99 Cages, Aquariums, Dog Collars, Dogspecial Leads, cough bottle and x 500ml Dutch Gold.....................€4.99 1 Pint Bottles Guinness .........€29.99 6412x Italian Bottles of Red/White Wine .................Dog €35.00 Also try our Head Collars.

Wormers Cushions, Dog Flea Collars, Pony & Horseand Flea treatments x 500ml Dutch Gold.....................€4.99 Collars. Wormers and Flea treatments 64 Italian Bottles of Red/ Bottle Red/White Wine ..........................................Head €5.99 Woodwards Water & TCP. for catsGripe and dogs 6 Italian Bottles of Red/ for cats and dogs 100 DogWine Biscuits ......................................................Only €2.99 COUGHS OR COLDS White ..................................€29.99 White Wine ..................................€29.99 COUGHS COLDS ••• Poitín OR Available ••• Try our new season Castlerea local Bottle Red/ White Wine .................€5.99 50 Daffodil Bulbs.............Only or 20 cents each Honey (Limited Amount).

Try our new season Castlerea local Bottle Red/ White Wine€7.99 .................€5.99 2x2lt. Cider ..................................€10.99 Also try our Special CoughOld Bottle & strong Iodine time Tulips ...................................... buy 2 bags get one Free 24 Cans Coca Cola .........................€9.99 Woodwards GripeHoney Water. (Limited Amount).

2x2lt.

Cider ..................................€10.99 Cadburys Selection Boxes ..............€1.99 Jackets, Jumpers. tryFabric our Dyes Special Cough Bottle & 1lb JarDog of Chews 100% pure Honey ................................ €3.99 Large Range of Also Shoe Camouflage & 100Cans ..............................€3.99 Camouflage Jackets,Woodwards Jumpers, 24 Cola .........................€9.99 Water.

Work ShirtsGripe only €16.99.

Rashers perCoca lb ........................................................... €3.99 Cotton Work Shirts Only €16.99, Tins of Roses/ Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Cadburys Selection Boxes ..............€1.99 ........................2 for €9.99 Only €2.99 Rainwear, Socks, Boot&Socks, 15Quality Eggs Street. ............................................................

Wellingtons, Hats.

Large Range of Shoe FabricWaders, Dyes Tins of USA Biscuits ARCHERY: Childrens and Adults Archery Bows, 100 Dog Chews ..............................€3.99 Wellingtons and Leather Hats.

60 ........................................................... €3.99 Targets, ArrowsCamouflage Jackets, Jumpers, and Strings & Firelighters Afternoon Tea .............................€9.99 THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON TEL: 094 9620028 Chicken Duck Hen Feed etc.

1lb Jar of 100% pure Honey .............€3.99 ARCHERY: Childrens and adults Archery Bows, Cotton Work Shirts Only €16.99, Tins of Roses/ Empty Jam & Honey Jars in Stock Bird Seed in bulk, Canary, Budgie, Rashers - per lb ..............................€1.99 Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Wildbird, etc. Peanuts, 25kg, Rabbit Feed, Offer you again the best in town this Christmas Targets Arrows and Strings.

25kg of Peanuts only ................................................. €55value Quality Street. ........................2 18 Eggs ................................

ONLY €1.69for €9.99 Hamster etc. Fox Repellent, Wildbird Feeders, Wellingtons, Hats.

Moth Balls (OldFeed: Time), Bird Chicken, Duck, Hen feed etc, 60 Firelighters................................€2.99 Tins ofJameson USA selection Biscuits 700ml ............................€23.00 See the best inArchery town of Golden Frisky Maverick by the bagselection ARCHERY: Childrens and Adults Bows, Large of watches, wall, orbird by the Pound seed in bulk, Canary, Budgie, Wildbird etc.

Christmas Cakes, Plum Puddings, Large gents cuckoo, windselection bell alarm of clocks andwatches 700ml Hennessy ...........................€24.99 Targets, Arrows and Strings & Afternoon Tea .............................€9.99 Boxes of Chocolates, Tins of Biscuits, mantle clocks at affordable prices IDEAL GIFTS 25kg, Rabbit Feed, Hamster etc.

Peanuts 1lt Smirnoff Vodka ........................€24.99 from €25, wall, cuckoo, wind bell, Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, Christmas Lights, Fibre Optic Trees, Homepure Cured Bacon Chicken Duck Hen Feed etc.

1lb Jar of 100% Honey .............€3.99 Peterson Pipes, Binoculars, etc.

Maglites, Wildbird Feeders, Moth Balls (Old Time) Sausages €1.99 700ml Dunphy’s Whiskey ..............€17.99 Long Red Christmas Candles Victorinox Knives, LedBird Lensor, Indur Ladies & Canary, Seed in bulk, Budgie, alarm clocks and mantle clocks Olde Time of Black Pudding Gents Wallets, Old See Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton Rashers - per lbRings ..............................€1.99 Golden Frisky the Bag orHutches, by the Pound our selection of Rabbit Bird 12 x 1 Pint Bottles Smithwick’s Whole Caraways, Whole Cloves,....€29.99 Shirts only €14.99, Pajamas, Tights buy by 2 get 1 Wildbird, etc.

Peanuts, 25kg, Rabbit Feed, affordable prices.

Fresh Duckat and Hen Farm Eggs Aquariums, Dog Collars, Dog Leads, free watches Cages, at reasonable prices. Fiddles 18 Eggs ................................

ONLY €1.69 12x 1 Pint Bottles Guinness .........€29.99 Hamster etc. &Fox Repellent, Wildbird Feeders, (Violins) Half, Three Quarter Full size.

Cushions, Dog HIGH GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, Ideal present Dog for children.

Full selection ofFlea Blue Collars, Pony & Horse 460 x 500ml Dutch Gold.....................€4.99 TABLE LAMPS AND LANTERNS FROM €12.99 Moth Time), Collars.

Wormers and Flea treatments Firelighters................................€2.99 Willow Delph.Head Epsom salts for feet orBalls baths (Old Home Bacon €1.99 per lb, Briquettes, FirelogsFrisky (4for for cats €5), Coal, 6 Italian Bottles ofCured Red/ and dogs Golden by the bag CHRISTMAS TREES & Repair Kits Maverick in-store Large cut, selection of watches, Bicycle wall,Tyres, Tubes, Pumps IDEAL GIFTS Freshly allof sizes.

White Olde Wine ..................................€29.99 Time Rings Black Pudding, or by theOR Pound COUGHS COLDS SOME UNWELCOME cuckoo, wind bell alarm clocks and FRESH HOLLY AND CHRISTMAS TryVISITORS? ourand new season CastlereaFishing local Rods, CHRISTMAS Bottle Red/ Wine .................€5.99 Bird Tables feeders, Aquariums, WholeWhite Caraways, Whole WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSOCloves.

Rats and mice - try our one dose bait GIFTS Honey (Limited Amount). mantle clocks at RANGES affordable prices IDEAL 2x2lt.

Cider BLUESTONE FOR SOOT IN Mouse Traps.

Mink Traps, Purse Rechargeable Lamps, Peterson Pipes, Binoculars Fresh..................................€10.99 duck and hen farmBacon eggs. Rat Traps, Also try our Special Cough Bottle & Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, Nets, Goose Grease, Sulpher NOW IN STOCK Cured 24 AND CansCHIMNEYS Coca Home Cola .........................€9.99 Woodwards Gripe Water. etc, Victorinox Knives, LED Lensor, Indur ladies Recycling Centre Tickets Peterson Pipes, Binoculars, etc. Maglites, Sausages €1.99 Cadburys Selection Boxes ..............€1.99 25kg Gritting Salt Lotto Victorinox Knives, LedShoe Lensor, IndurAlmanac, Ladies Large Range of & Fabric Dyes & 25kg Granular Salt for Dishwashers and gents wallets, Old Moores HIGHDog GRADE PARAFFIN OIL HEATERS, OldeCLEAR Time Rings of Black Pudding 100 Chews ..............................€3.99 25kg Cube SaltWallets, forCamouflage Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, Stamps, Jackets, Jumpers, Gents Old Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton and Iron Cast Frypans Photocopying Service Tights (buy 2 get one free) Whole Caraways, Whole Cloves, Cotton Work Shirts Only €16.99, TABLE LAMPS AND LANTERNS Tins of Colour Roses/ Shirts only €14.99, Pajamas, Tights buy 2 get 1 Watch Batteries, Watch Straps andFROM €25.00 Shotguns, Rifles and Air Rifles In Stock Rainwear, Socks, Boot Socks, Waders, Car Key Batteries Replaced Fresh Duck Hen Farm Shot Gun Cartridges, Bulletsat - Eley, Quality Street. ........................2 for Eggs €9.99 free watches reasonable prices. Fiddles WICKS ANDand MANTELS Remmington - all top brandsWellingtons, stocked.

Hats.

25% OFF ALL Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, (Violins) Half, Three Quarter & Archery Full size.Bows, Cartridge Belts, Decoys, Cleaning Kits Tins ofGRADE USA Biscuits FullChildrens selection of Blue Willow Delph.

Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, ARCHERY: and Adults HIGH CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, - Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon Ideal present for children.

Full selection Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Available Targets, Arrows and Strings of Blue &Flys Afternoon Tea .............................€9.99 TABLEKEY LAMPS AND LANTERNS CHRISTMAS TREES CUTTING SERVICE - FROM €12.99 Licenced Firearms Dealer Willow Delph.

Epsom salts for feet or Epsom Salts for feet or baths Chicken Duck Hen Feed etc.baths 1lb Jar of 100% pure Honey .............€3.99 No Longer Want To Licence Your Firearm?

HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER KEYS Freshly cut, all sizes. €1.99 per Briquettes, Firelogs (4 for €5), Coal, Birdlb, Seed bulk, It For A in Small Fee Canary, Budgie, MORTICE, CAR ETC.TREES We Can Store It Or Destroy RashersCHRISTMAS - per lb ..............................€1.99 (€1.99 per pound).

Wildbird, etc.

Peanuts, Rabbit Feed, Bicycle Tyres, Tubes, & Repair Kits in-store See our selection of House Safes valid until December 14th Pumps 25kg, Fresh Holly and ONLY €1.69All pricesHamster 18 Eggs ................................ etc. Fox Repellent, Wildbird Feeders, Freshly cut, all sizes.

Christmas Wreaths available.

SOME UNWELCOME Firelogs.

Moth Balls (Old Time), 60 Firelighters................................€2.99 FRESH HOLLY AND CHRISTMAS Golden Frisky Maverick by the bag May thank our Customers Large selection of watches, wall, Also Bluestone for soot we in ranges andyou chimneys CHRISTMAS VISITORS? by the Pound Bicycle Tyres,or Tubes, Pumps and Repair Kits in WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO cuckoo, for wind alarm clocks and your business during the year Rats and miceAdult - try bicycle our one€250. dose bait NOW INbell STOCK store. mantle clocks at affordable prices IDEAL GIFTS BLUESTONE FOR SOOT IN RANGES Rat Traps, Mouse Traps.

Mink Traps, Purse Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, and we wishCured you aBacon Happy and Holy Christmas Home Nets,Pipes, Goose Grease, Sulpher Peterson etc. tin Maglites, AND CHIMNEYS NOW€1.99 IN STOCK Real leather mensBinoculars, hats and belts, whistles, Sausages LOTTO Victorinox Knives, Led Lensor, Indur Ladies & Recycling Centre Tickets Olde Time Rings of Black Pudding Stanley flasks (lifetime warranty).

Gents Wallets, Old Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton Whole Caraways, Whole Cloves, Shirts only €14.99, Pajamas, Tights buy 2 get 1 25kg Gritting Salt Laminating, fax,and stamps, Fresh Duck Hencolour Farm Eggs free watches at reasonable prices. Fiddles 25kg Granular SaltCHRISTMAS for Dishwashers SOME UNWELCOME VISITORS? (Violins) Half, Salt Three & Full size. service. batteries 25kg Cube forQuarter Watersoftners HIGHphotocopying GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, Laminating, Fax,Watch Stamps, Ideal present for children.

Full selection of Blue Rats and Mice; try our one dose bait.

TABLE LAMPS AND LANTERNS FROM €12.99 and Iron Cast Frypans Photocopying Service watch Colour straps and car key, batteries replaced.

Willow Delph. Epsom salts for feet or baths €1.99 per lb,Mouse Briquettes, (4 In for €5),Nets, Coal, Rat Traps, Mink Traps, Purse Watch Batteries, Watch Straps and Shotguns, RiflesTraps, and Firelogs Air Rifles Stock CHRISTMAS TREES Bicycle Tyres, Tubes, Pumps & Repair Kits Car Key Pike Batteries Replaced Shot GunGoose Cartridges, Grease,Bullets Sulphur- Eley,in-store Freshly cut, allspinning sizes.rods, fly Fishing tackle, Rods, SOME UNWELCOME Remmington - all top brands stocked.

FRESH AND 25% OFF HOLLY ALL Fishing Rods, Rods, Reels, Spinners, FlysTackle, – CHRISTMAS largestPike selection in CHRISTMAS VISITORS? Recycling Centre Tickets Kits Cartridge Belts, Decoys, Cleaning WREATHS AVAILABLE Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels,ALSO Spinners, Rats and mice - try our one dose bait County Roscommon.

BLUESTONE FOR SOOT INRoscommon RANGES Rat Traps, Mouse Traps.

Mink Traps, Purse Flys - Largest Selection in Co. 25kg Granular Salt for Dishwashers Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Available Nets, Goose Grease, Sulpher ANDKEY CHIMNEYS NOW IN STOCK CUTTING Licenced Firearms Dealer 25kg cube salt for Water Softeners KEY CUTTING SERVICE – SERVICE house keys, -locker Recycling Centre Tickets No Longer Want ToGritting LicenceSalt Your Firearm?

25kg HOUSE Keys, KEYS, LOCKER mortice, etc. KEYS Lotto Shotguns, Rifles andfor AirDishwashers Rifles in stock.

25kg Granular Salt We Can Store It OrSalt Destroy It For A Small Fee See our selection of house safes.

25kg Cube for Watersoftners MORTICE, CAR ETC. Laminating, Fax, Stamps, Shotgun Cartridges, and Iron Cast Frypans Colour Photocopying Service See ourBoxes selection of House Safes All prices valid until December 14th of chocolates, Watch Batteries, Watch Straps and Bullets –Rifles Eley – and all top Shotguns, Airbrands Riflesstocked.

In Stock Car Key Batteries Replaced Shot GunBelts, Cartridges, Bullets - Eley, tins of biscuits, Christmas lights, fibre optic trees, Cartridge Decoys and Cleaning Kits Remmington - all top brands stocked.

25% OFFlong ALLred Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, Christmas candles.

Cartridge Belts, Ireland Decoys, Cleaning Kits Inland Fisheries Permits available Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, PETS See our selection of Rabbit Hutches, Bird Flys - Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Licenced Firearms DealerAvailable cages,KEY Aquariums, dog collars, Dog Leads, CUTTING SERVICE - Dog Licenced No longer wantFirearms to licenceDealer your firearm?

No Longer Want To Licence Your Firearm?

HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER KEYS Cushions, Dog Flea Collars. can storeItitOrorDestroy destroy It it for WeWe Can Store For aAsmall Smallfee.

Fee CARfor ETC. WormersMORTICE, and flea treatments cats and dogs.

CHRISTMAS TREES – DON’T BE TOO LATE!

ROBERT FLYNN

Laoise and Ala pictured at the Elphin Christmas lights switchon. Photo: Michael Finan

Callum and Dylan pictured with Treasa Hennessy at the Elphin Christmas lights switch-on. Photo: Michael Finan

Lotto

May we thank you our Customers for your business during the year and we wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas

See our selection of House Safes

All prices valid until December 14th

CHRISTMAS on your doorstep KIDS ARTS & CRAFTS

May we thank you our Customers for your business during the year and we wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas

A Christmas Carol – update from Solstice Choir

with

Festive Fashion

The ever-popular and award-winning Roscommon Solstice Choir have been performing their series of Christmas concerts in Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon.

On Friday, December 5th, the choir performed in St Mary’s Church in Westport. This was followed on December 12th with a concert in the Church of the Sacred Heart and St Barry in Whitehall, County Roscommon to show appreciation for recent fundraising events in support of Cloonfour National School.

On Sunday, December 14th, there was a very successful concert in Ballinaheglish Church, held in support of all the churches in Oran, with a ‘full house’ present. The choir finished their tour with a concert in St Joseph’s Church, Geevagh, County Sligo, to assist with refurbishment. Incorporating a wide range of music into their repertoire, the choir sings a blend of well-known Christmas songs and carols both old and new.

After a very successful year, the choir would like to sincerely thank all who have supported them, and wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a prosperous, peaceful New Year.

you’ll need this Christmas

Gorgeous Gifts

Christmas Characters

Multi Store Gift Cards

Sat & Sun 1-4pm

w w w. a t h l o n e t o w n c e n t r e . c o m

Michelle and Sinead Shiel pictured at the Elphin Christmas lights switch-on. Photo: Michael Finan

11

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople newsbriefs

Christmas all wrapped up for you at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

Tractor & Truck Drive in Frenchpark

Step into a world of nostalgia and tradition with our warm open fires and friendly smiles, where our dedicated staff will make you feel right at home in the lead up to Christmas.

In Frenchpark area, the annual Tractor & Truck Drive in fond memory of Michael Creighton will take place on New Year’s Day, kicking off at the Saddlers Inn at 1 pm sharp.

Registration from 11.30 am, €20 per tractor/truck.

All proceeds to Croí and the National Breast Cancer Research Institute Ireland.

St Stephen’s Day Walk/Run in Ballymoe The Ballymoe FC annual St Stephen’s Day Walk/Run will start from Fr Flanagan Memorial Centre, Ballymoe at 12 pm with registration from at 11.15 am. Proceeds to go to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

Boyle GAA & LGFA table quiz A Boyle GAA & LGFA table quiz will take place on Sunday, December 28th in St Joseph’s Hall at 7.30 pm.

Entry is €10 per person; €5 for students. Great prizes.

All are welcome for a Christmas night out.

Christmas Bingo in Ballinaheglish Christmas Bingo takes place at 8.30 pm this Friday, December 19th, in Ballinaheglish Community Centre.

There will be lots of extra spot prizes up for grabs, and a raffle on the night.

Profits from the event will go towards the upkeep of the centre, so your support would be greatly appreciated.

Indulge in our pre-Christmas lunch and dinner offerings and of course our hugely popular Festive Afternoon Tea is available priced at €30 pp. Our new season lounge food menu is now

served daily until 9p.m with a variety of new dishes on offer including our seasonal mince pies and Christmas Pudding.

And don’t forget the perfect stocking filler, our Christmas gift vouchers for the Abbey Hotel and Abbey Health & Fitness ” added Geraldine Grealy, PR & Marketing Manager at the Abbey.

Let our family take care of yours this holiday season. There are also lots of live acts coming in the new year ( See details on Advert) why not treat your friend to a ticket to one of our live concerts.

We are now taking bookings for New Year’s Eve dinner in our restaurant with a complimentary glass of bubbly for our diners.

Booking is essential. Tel 090 6626240 or email restaurant@ abbeyhotel.ie. Why not ring in the new year with us with live entertainment in our front bar with local musician Michael Banahan from 10.30 pm. Make a

night of it with special overnight rates available.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY – Our winter wedding fair will take place on Sunday January 11th from 2-5 pm with complimentary glass of bubbly and light refreshments served for all newly engaged couples. Please register by email to weddings@ abbeyhotel.ie Wishing all our patrons all the joys of the Christmas Season and every good wish for 2026 from the Grealy family and all our staff at the Abbey Hotel and Abbey Health and Fitness.

We wish to thank you for your custom throughout the year and look forward to your continued support in 2026.

Enquiries 090 6626240. Follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram X and TikTok for further updates.

Santa on way to Ballaghaderreen!

Santa Claus is coming to town and will be checking his list at Ballaghaderreen Library on Thursday, December 18th at 6 pm. The winner of the 2025 mini masterpieces colouring competition will also be announced.

Live entertainment in our front bar with local musician Michael Banahan from 10.30 pm on New Year’s Eve night.

12

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Heroes who give hope Our columnist Frank Brandon talks about heroic acts committed by ordinary people, the different ways in which rural Ireland is being revitalised, the decline of the ‘shop Santa’, and more!

It’s Sunday evening as I write, and on account of the wild, wet, windy day, my television has been on the blink. Almost every station was af-

fected, and I literally could watch nothing at all.

However, the wind died down by the time it got to the six o’clock news, and on that particular bulletin I was privileged to watch two completely different acts of heroism.

Over in Sydney, where so many of our youth are now living and where Bondi Beach is such a huge attraction to thousands of young people every weekend, we had the horrific murders of 15 people in a terrorist incident which targeted the Jewish community.

As the news of the deliberate coldblooded murders was breaking, I met a local man whose daughter is in Sydney. He told me how relieved they were that she had texted home to say she herself and all the Irish friends she knew were all safe.

As the horror unfolded, there was one hero waiting for his chance. As we have now probably all seen, he ran out from behind a car, overpowered one of the two gunmen, and took the terrorist’s weapon. The Australian Prime Minister has said this man – 43-year-old Ahmed Al Ahmed – was a true hero whose ac-

tions doubtlessly saved many lives.

It took some guts for him to do what he did, and he will definitely be remembered for all time in Australia’s history.

Closer to home, the news broadcast also had footage of a dramatic rescue of 14 fishermen who were airlifted to safety after their trawler ran aground on rocks near Dingle Harbour. Despite terrible weather conditions, Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue 115 managed to safely airlift all 14 fishermen.

The skill level of the pilots and winchman must be extraordinary.

A young team of percussionists entertained the crowd before kick-off in last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green in Creggs. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

An innovative move towards rural revival It’s funny how when I’m watching the news sometimes none of it seems to sink in. If you asked me, maybe even before the weather forecast, I wouldn’t have the foggiest idea as to what news I had just seen.

And yet, during yesterday’s news (I am writing this on Monday evening), I must have been fully awake, because along with the stories about the heroes in Sydney and Dingle, there was a very interesting and inspiring report about how two small, rural communities are fighting back against the terrible and seemingly unstoppable decline of rural Ireland.

Down in County Offaly in the village of Pullough, for almost eight years now they have had a community shop, which some kind person has let them have rent-free. The shop, which opens every day of the week, is staffed entirely by unpaid volunteers. In recent times, the shop has expanded to include a community place called The Hangout where the younger generation can study, chat, or even have a game of pool.

For the 250 or so residents of the village, the community shop is much more than just a shop – it is a place where people can meet for a chat, and means they don’t have to travel the 12km to

Ferbane for their basic grocery necessities. It is now the heartbeat of the community.

Further south, in the village of Kilteely in County Limerick, there is another inspiring story about 20 people who each put up €15,000 in order to buy the last remaining pub in the village and keep it open.

Obviously all of those people were prepared to risk their own hard-earned money to keep one pub in the village, and while they are all aware that the whole thing could go belly-up, all’s gone well so far – in fact business is booming!

In the five months since they opened, their local community has really bought into the idea and the pub has hosted birthday parties, charity events, and even Christmas parties.

In each of those instances, small rural communities have decided to help themselves and not wait for anyone else to help them. Maybe selfhelp is the key to keeping rural Ireland alive?

As I thought about rural Ireland, I thought of the All-Ireland ladies senior club football final, when that extraordinary team from KilkerrinClonberne cemented their place in the history books as one of the all-time great teams – if not the greatest – by winning the title for the fifth

year in a row.

A team from a small area of East Galway beat Antrim club Moneyglass – a team from an even smaller area with a population of just 103 people – and the achievements of those two clubs are something that we all should be proud of.

The Galway girls have stayed the course for six years (they lost their first final six years ago) with unbelievable dedication and commitment to the cause, while Moneyglass beat the great Kilmacud Crokes in the semi-final. Bearing in mind that the Crokes have more than 5,000 members, it just proves that (in sport at least) rural Ireland is alive and well!

Out here in Creggs on Saturday afternoon, our little rugby club hosted Dromore from County Down in an All-Ireland junior cup semi-final, and while our lads lost out, it’s fair to say that the many visitors from the north could hardly believe the facilities that Creggs now has!

And so as I reflect on all of these different types of stories, the one common denominator seems to be to get up off your butt, put in the hard work, stop waiting for others to help you, and just go and do it yourself. There’s still a lot to be proud of out in the country!

Rough seas, high winds and poor visibility were all debilitating factors in the rescue, but like the man in Sydney, the crew of the helicopter were prepared to take huge risks in order to save other people’s lives.

As we despair at all the bad things that are going on in the world, particularly in Gaza, Ukraine, and Syria, it is comforting to know that there are still humans out there who are willing to risk their own lives to save others. Heroes all, the crew of Rescue 115 and Ahmed Al Ahmed – well done to ye all.

Claus for concern?

A friend of mine, whose kids (now adults) are much the same age as my own, asked me a very simple question yesterday – but one I’m not sure I have the answer to.

She asked: “Where have all the Santas gone?”

– and reminded me (although I didn’t fully remember) that back in the days when our respective children were young, every second shop would have its own Santa.

All the multinationals would have one, and lots of the smaller ones too. But now, apart from appearances at the turning-on of the various towns’ lights or other such public community events, Santa seems to be exclusively the property of places like Elf Town or Santa’s Cabin in Galway.

My friend tells me that visits to these places can be hugely expensive and people can be queuing for ages, which can be hard work with young children, so maybe there is a case to be made for bringing back the ‘small shop’ Santa!

As I said, on this one I am not a hundred per cent sure of my facts, but that’s what I’m told and it couldn’t do any harm!

And finally…

Fair play to our old friend Twink, who, after years away from the limelight, is making her panto comeback at the age of 74.

The unfortunate death of the parrot (Timby) she had for 26 years – during rehearsals for Cinderella – proves the old saying that there is no such thing as bad publicity. Because Twink and her deceased parrot have featured on nearly every newspaper over the last few days. The secret to being a success in showbusiness is to make sure you are in the public eye, and as an old pro she was always able to generate publicity.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, is the big premiere of the show. My daughter Tara has been invited by Twink to go to see it, and I’m sure she’ll enjoy it!

As for me, all I can do is wish Twink luck – while she may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it takes guts to take on such a big challenge at the age of 74. I too am 74, but I wouldn’t even go to it, never mind star in it!

‘Til Saturday night, bye for now!

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

Members of the Carroll family pictured at the Elphin Christmas lights switch-on. Photo: Michael Finan

Calling ‘foul’ on dog fouling in Athleague It has been brought to the attention of the Athleague Tidy Towns committee that there is quite an amount of dog fouling in the village area.

There are several metres of safe, well-lit footpaths in the village for people to use that are currently affected by this. Many people do car-

ry a bag and clean up after their dog, and we acknowledge this.

The Athleague Tidy Towns committee would ask those who do not do so to please do so, and respect other path-users – you wouldn’t like dog fouling on your own path or boundary.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople

Paddy Joe encouraging people to send a Christmas card to those living alone Roscommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador Paddy Joe Burke is calling on local people to send a Christmas card this holiday season to someone in their life who’s living alone.

Speaking to Ocean FM during the week, Paddy Joe fondly recounted how popular the practice of sending Christmas cards used to be in Ireland: “When we were young, we’d have a whole heap of Christmas cards every year; mam would have them (strung up) on a line across the kitchen.

“It’s a lovely tradition that has dwindled away over the passing of time”, he noted, adding that he fully understands how this has come to be – “stamps are dear, cards are dear, and people busy”.

“The only suggestion I’m making to people – and it is a suggestion – would be to consider

sending just one card or two to someone living alone this Christmas.”

Explaining the inspiration behind this idea, Paddy Joe recounted an experience he had with a customer while working as a barber in Roscommon town.

“It was one of the saddest interactions I had in my 52 years as a barber”, he shared, explaining that it all began when a regular customer of his came into the barbershop in early January one year.

“He came in for a ramble, he didn’t need a haircut”, he said.

“As the two of us were sitting, he turns to me and says, ‘Do you know what happened to me this Christmas? I never got one card’. And with that, he broke down crying.

“This is a man in his mid to late 70s, and I looked at that man and felt guilty, because I hadn’t got-

ten him a card. I thought, imagine how big the impact was that you find yourself crying at the barber’s in January. I sent him a card every year after that.”

Again acknowledging that “times have changed” since the days of card-giving being a more widespread practice, Paddy Joe emphasised that he is “only suggesting sending one or two cards”.

“People who live alone, that’s who needs them the most. The rest of us who have someone else in the house are okay, but for someone living alone, that could make a huge difference.”

“Loneliness is an epidemic that’s sweeping the western world”, Paddy Joe highlighted, referring to WHO’s 2023 declaration that loneliness is a global public health concern. “And you don’t have to be alone to feel alone – you could feel alone at

Paddy Joe Burke… Roscommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador is calling on local people to consider sending a Christmas card to someone in their life who’s living alone.

Ex-Roscommon football star helping homeless in London at Christmas < SEAMUS DUKE

Michael Finneran (pictured), originally from Ballinagare in West Roscommon, runs Mannion’s Prince Arthur Pub in Tottenham.

an All-Ireland final at Croke Park.

“But something as simple as a Christmas card, as the postman coming around, can put a bright spark in someone’s dark day, and make a tremendous impact on people living alone.”

As Age-Friendly Ambassador for Roscommon, Paddy Joe highlighted that in many cases, older people are the ones most affected: “I’m sure we can all think of a person who was particularly nice to us when we were young – maybe even a neighbour that lived up the street that might be in a nursing home now or just no longer out in the community. They were kind to us when we were young, and kindness has a long memory.

“It’s our time now to think of them, and send one or two Christmas cards if we could”, he concluded.

A former Roscommon Gaelic football star who has been a well-known publican in London for many years will once again be providing a special Christmas Day Dinner for homeless people.

Michael Finneran (pictured), originally from Ballinagare in West Roscommon, runs Mannion’s Prince Arthur Pub in Tottenham. Along with his wife Rose, Michael will continue the tradition of opening the doors of his premises and providing a Christmas Dinner to those who have nowhere else to go on the big day.

Michael, who won an All-Ireland U-21 title in 1978 and played for Roscommon the All-Ireland senior final in

newsbriefs Fundraiser in aid of Hospice This Friday, December 19th, the Ballaghaderreen Ukulele and Cathedral folk groups will be singing from 11.30 am at Duffy’s SuperValu to raise funds for the new children’s Sunflower Hospice, which is due to start in Castlebar in 2026, and the Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice.

All support will be greatly appreciated.

Christmas Day fun at Erritt Lake This Christmas Day, there will be a Swim, Sauna and Coffee Morning at Erritt Lake (F45 EK28) from 10 am12 pm. All proceeds in aid of Pieta.

You are also invited to add a ribbon, bow, or small memorial item to our Christmas Memorial Tree in loving memory of those no longer with us. We will come together to honour and remember them at 10.45 am on Christmas Morning.

1980, is often described as one of the most skilful players to have ever played for the county. With the Roscommon team, he won four Connacht senior football titles, gracing the game with his stylish play.

Michael told the Irish Post last week that he emigrated to London in 1985 and began working in the building trade. He went on to work in the pub industry before advancing to running bars himself.

“I ran a pub called the Railway in Finsbury Park for 11 years. I met Mr Mannion who offered me the chance to run one of his pubs, called ‘The Connaught’, which I did. Then in 2005 he offered me the lease of this pub, ‘Mannion’s The King Arthur’ here in Totten-

ham and I have been here for 20 years” he said.

Over the years Michael and Rose have earned a reputation of giving back to the local community. On St Patrick’s Day they open their doors and give everyone who comes in a free dinner.

Michael says that the idea of offering free Christmas dinners started about ten years ago.

“It started with about 20 people, but now we are up to 60 or 70. We give them turkey, goose, bacon and cabbage” he said.

He adds: “Not everyone can just turn up. We invite you in… this is to ensure that those in most need get a place.”

Michael says that he remembers the bad times himself.

“In 1986 I was on the Holloway Road and I hadn’t a penny in my pocket. I found a pound coin on the road and bought a bag of chips and a can of coke and that was my Christmas Dinner.

“So I didn’t want that happening to anyone else. It was my wife Rose who played a huge part in the idea to help people on Christmas Day” he concluded.

Michael’s pub will offer warmth, a hot meal, and a friendly chat on Christmas Day for people who would otherwise be alone – and in many cases would be hungry too.

That generosity of spirit makes a big difference to the homeless people in question.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

NewsPeople Sean Doyles Christmas

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Ballymore Group invited to Roscommon Council meeting to outline plans for Athlone < EMMA HEALY

Cllr Larry Brennan has proposed that the Ballymore Group be invited to meet with Roscommon County Council to outline its plans for a major development in Athlone and to discuss the potential benefits for Roscommon.

The proposal was made at the most recent meeting of Roscommon County Council on Monday of this week, during discussions arising from the minutes of the council’s Budget meeting.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Brennan referenced earlier discussions around infrastructure upgrades and the scale of the proposed Athlone development.

“On the basis of matters arising from the minutes of the Budget meeting, including a proposal by Cllr (Tony) Ward in relation to upgrading a road from here to Athlone, and mention of the proposed

Athlone Town Bridge.

large-scale development in Athlone which has been alluded to here over the past number of months, it is of a scale that will have a hugely positive impact on our area,” he said.

The Athlone plan, championed by Ballymore’s Sean Mulryan – a native of County Roscommon – has been described in recent months as a masterplan to transform the Midlands town into a sustainable city of up to 100,000 people by 2040. The concept – which has been shared with senior policy makers and sector stakeholders – envisages a modern ‘15-minute city’ built around education, infrastructure, green transport and sustainable housing.

Proposals outlined include the expansion of the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) campus, a 5,000-bed eco student village, 20,000 zero-carbon homes, new community facilities and enhanced transport networks, all aimed at supporting long-term regional growth.

Cllr Larry Brennan

In further comments following the meeting, Cllr Brennan said the scale of the project makes early communication essential.

“The plans and the scope of the proposed project are so vast that it can have huge, positive im-

plications for the whole county of Roscommon and the Midlands region,” he said. “I think it’s important that councillors and the executive of the council hear first-hand what the plans are, so that we can work in a positive way with Ballymore to help ensure the proposals become a reality.”

He added that advance planning would be crucial if the development proceeds.

“It’s vitally important that we, as a county, have the proper infrastructure and facilities in place in advance to cater for such a significant growth development,” he said.

Cllr Brennan proposed that early in the New Year, and “at the convenience of Ballymore Group”, the developer be invited to attend a meeting with councillors to outline its plans for the Athlone development and to discuss potential positive impacts for Roscommon and the wider county. The proposal was seconded by Cllr Michael Holland.

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

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OUT& OUT &ABOUT Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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

Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club ends year on a high Drawing of prizes in the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club Raffle took place on Saturday night last in Compton’s Central Bar, Bridge Street, Strokestown.

First prize, a Honda 50 motorcycle, was won by Shane Farrell, Curraghroe. Second prize, a stay at the Clew Bay Hotel, Westport was won by Tommy J. Hennigan, Fourmilehouse. Third prize, a meal at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon was won by Edel Cox, Rooskey and fourth prize, €100, was won by Peter Convey, Strokestown.

Meanwhile, the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club hosted a screening of video coverage of the 2025 Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival in Compton’s Central Bar in Strokestown recently. Photographer MICHAEL FINAN was there for the Roscommon People, and photographed some of those who attended.

The club wishes to thank all involved in the organising of the draw and extends to all our supporters a very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Strokestown Harvest Festival committee members and videographer Joe McGrath pictured at the recent event in Compton’s Central Bar in Strokestown.

Michael Farrell (secretary), John O’Connor (chairperson), Joe McGrath (videographer) and Henry Owens (PRO) pictured at the Strokestown Harvest Festival video screening in Compton’s Central Bar in Strokestown.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Busy Ballaghaderreen is sparkling this Christmas!

This Christmas, Ballaghaderreen is set to sparkle once again as its much-loved Christmas Lights display transforms the town into a festive landmark in the west of Ireland.

For over 30 years, a small group of dedicated local volunteers has quietly worked behind the scenes to create the now-famous canopy of lights that stretches across the town.

What began as a simple idea has become a cherished tradition.

This year, more than 60 illuminated stars, designed by local craftsman Cyril McGuire, hang proudly from businesses and homes, linked together by strings of lights that crisscross the streets and welcome visitors from every approach into the town.

Each year, a team of 10-15 volunteers spend long, cold, frosty evenings checking cables, repairing bulbs, and installing the displays to ensure Ballaghaderreen shines at its

best for the festive season.

Their work culminates in the town’s stunning illuminated Christmas tree on The Square, designed and built by Robbie Foley and the volunteer crew – a true focal point and favourite photo spot for families and visitors alike.

At the top of the town, outside the barracks, the much-loved traditional crib completes the scene, offering a quiet reminder of the spirit of Christmas amid the twinkling lights

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2025 from all at

and busy streets. A huge thank you is extended to all the volunteers for their hard work and to all the businesses who support this important project every year.

The Christmas Lights are just one sign of a town on the up. Ballaghaderreen, a traditional market town and gateway to the west, offers an impressive selection of small gift and artisan shops, along with a wide range of family-run businesses.

Shoppers can expect a warm welcome, personal service, and plenty of unique Christmas gift ideas.

There is a real sense of momentum in the town of Ballaghaderreen at the moment as works on the new Public Realm are progressing and a number of important community projects are also underway.

Among these initiatives is the Ballaghaderreen. ie and Ballaghaderreen Shop Local, a new website and social media presence showcasing local retailers and services, making it easier than ever to browse what the town has to offer.

Construction of the new

Emily and Rebecca O’Hoare at their stall at the Ballaghaderreen Christmas market held at the Ballaghaderreen Community Resource Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

childcare facility commenced this year. When complete, the new facility will be a modern childcare centre for the town which is due for completion in the New Year.

Meanwhile, refurbishment works at the Library at Dillon House have been completed. Located in the town’s historic Dillon House, this space is now host to a modern, spacious library with an extensive range of services, blending heritage with contemporary community use.

There are many other reasons why Ballaghaderreen should be a destination of choice this Christmas, not least the availability of extensive free parking at the Cathedral car park on Church Street or Pound Street and another car park on Barrack Street allowing visitors to park safely and access all parts of the town centre with ease.

Seasonal experiences and events In conjunction with the Ballaghaderreen Town Team, Roscommon Coun-

ty Council is encouraging people to visit Ballaghaderreen this festive season: stroll under the stars, enjoy the spectacular lights, explore the many independent shops, and relax in one of the town’s friendly cafés or bustling eateries.

To keep up to date with what’s happening, follow the Ballaghaderreen Town Team and Ballaghaderreen Shop Local on social media. For a full listing of events and activities in Ballaghaderreen this Christmas, visit visitroscommon. ie.

THE SQUARE, BALLAGHADERREEN, Tel. (094) 986 0305 • Email: info@durkins.ie

Bookings are now open for the Christmas season – call 094 9860305 to reserve a table or room Updates and further details can be found on the Durkin’s Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse Facebook page or website

Tetiana, Atika and Daria at their stall at the Ballaghaderreen Christmas market held at the Ballaghaderreen Community Resource Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & New Year and thank you for your support in 2025

The 4th annual Lisacul Festive Fair was held in Lisacul Community Centre. All proceeds from this enjoyable event go to Lisnamult Community Development and Brightsparks Preschool.

Photos: Michael Finan

The Hatch Bar

Live music nightly over the Festive season

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Rooted in Community, There for You. Jackie (Pots, paws and bags) at her stall at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

Wishing all of our members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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Ava and Georgia at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre.

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Phone Derek Phillips 087 9796767 Crenane Wishing all our customers a very Ballaghaderreen Happy Christmas and New Year & Co. Roscommon thank you for your support in 2025

For all your servicing requirements l Timing Belt Replacement l Electric Diagnostics l Clutch Replacement l Headlight Alignment All NCT & DOE work carried out

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year Mary and Emily Hopkins at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

Brian Mulligan & Co. Main St., Ballaghaderreen.

Mikey and Annie at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre.

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Find the perfect gift at Mulligans this Christmas

Tel.: 094 9860387 Emily and Mason Hopkins at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

Demchuk and Alla at their stall at the recent Lisacul Christmas markets held at the Lisacul Community Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas & New Year from

Martin Towey (Ballaghaderreen Ltd)

• Newsagents • High-class Confectionary • Grocery and Fruiterer • Tobacconist • Petrol • Oils • Briquettes • Coal supplies • Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Daily

Haulie Grady book launch

Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Telephone: (094) 98 60076

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year

Haulie Grady recently launched his autobiography – titled ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – in Gortaganny Hall. Pictured is Eamonn, getting his copy signed by the author. Photo: Michael Finan

No. 6 Mill Business Park, Dublin Road, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. F54 T860 Phone: 094 98 60358/ Email: info@firstclassoffice.ie

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2025

McHugh’s Wholesale Main Street, Ballaghaderreen

Tel. 094 98 60092

Senator Gareth Scahill and Cllr Valerie Byrne pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2025

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Kathleen Ward, Nuala Creighton, Maura Doory and Una Conway pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

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Lung, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel: 094 98 60801 Mobile: 087 2968746

Trish and Alan Grady pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall.

Photo: Michael Finan

Paula Conway, Shane Ganley, Emily Ganley and Gary Conway pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive s g n i t e e r g from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen Wishing all our customers, staff and neighbours a very Happy Christmas from all in

Molly’s Bar Ballaghaderreen. Tel. 094 9877923

Guests pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

Guests pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

Open Mic with ROBBIE Sunday 21st December

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DJs most nights over Christmas Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2025

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Telephone: 087 1366482

Supply and installation of Carpets,Vinyl, Laminates, LVT and Wood Flooring l

Haulie, Carmel, Carol, Declan and Alan Grady pictured at the launch of Haulie’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

Guests pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

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Telephone 094 987 7520

Carmel and Haulie Grady pictured with some of their grandchildren at the recent launch of Haulie’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

James and Kathleen Creaton pictured at the launch of Haulie Grady’s book – ‘I wonder if I had turned Right’ – which took place in Gortaganny Hall. Photo: Michael Finan

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Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive s g n i t e e r g from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Old Dublin Road, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon Tel. 0 94 9861116 – E-mail: shop@toweystopoil.com

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Liam Callaghan Athlone Local AVAILABLE Electoral Area TO ALL Please support your Roscommon County Council local businesses

Contact me on 086 3325839

Duffy’s SuperValu installs machine for bulk Re-Turn recycling Duffy’s SuperValu in Ballaghaderreen has launched a bulk Reverse Vending Machine, allowing customers and local clubs and charities to conveniently recycle larger quantities of plastic containers and aluminium cans.

Supported by Re-Turn, the machine will enable customers in the Roscommon, Mayo and Sligo areas to recycle a full bag of containers at once, processing up to 100 containers per minute. Located just off the N5 from Westport to Dublin, the store offers commuters a convenient location to do their recycling. The store has also introduced designated disability parking next to the machine, ensuring all members of the community can access the service with ease.

Duffy’s SuperValu customers have recycled over two million containers since the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme in February 2024, and the installation of a third machine further demonstrates Duffy’s SuperValu’s commitment to sustainability and the local area.

Lorna Duffy, owner of Duffy’s SuperValu Ballaghaderreen, said: “I’m delighted to announce that we have installed our very first high-capacity bulk reverse vending machine, which represents a real win for our community. This machine enables customers to return a larger number of containers in a single visit, making recycling more convenient while promoting sustainable habits.

Joe Duffy pictured trying out the machine for the first time.

“The installation marks an important step forward in achieving our sustainability goals, with the capacity to now process over 3.5 million containers annually.

What makes this milestone even more meaningful is the benefit it brings to local clubs and charities, who can now return containers at a faster rate, raising much needed funds.”

Ciaran Hope, Chief Operating Officer of Re-Turn, said: “It’s inspiring to see Duffy’s SuperValu Ballaghaderreen taking another step forward in sustainability with the launch of their new bulk reverse vending machine in County Roscommon, and we’re proud to support this initiative.

The new machine is wheelchair-friendly to use and has dedicated disability parking beside it.

The new machine makes recycling easier for customers across Roscommon and neighbouring Mayo.

“Retailers like Duffy’s SuperValu play a vital role in driving Ireland’s circular economy, and the continued growth of the Deposit Return Scheme highlights the strong commitment of communities and businesses to reducing waste and protecting our environment for future generations.”

As part of a significant invest-

ment last year, Duffy’s SuperValu prioritised environmental responsibility through a store revamp. The upgraded store features energy efficient refrigeration, LED lighting, solar panels and an electric vehicle charging point.

Since the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme initiative last year, over 424 million containers have been recycled across 577 SuperValu and Centra stores, making Musgrave the largest retailer participating in the scheme.

Email: cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie

Murphy’s PHARMACY The Square, Ballaghaderreen Telephone: 094 9861967

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year Thank you for your support in 2025

Katelyn Cummins, Margaret Mahon, Mary McDermott and Grace Coleman from the Ballaghaderreen Knitting group at their stall at the Ballaghaderreen Christmas market held at the Ballaghaderreen Community Resource Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

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Festive greetings from

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

GERRY COFFEY AUCTIONEER | VALUER | ESTATE AGENT

Students support Team Hope Appeal….

Main Street, Williamstown, Co. Galway

Telephone: 094 964 3600 Mobile: 086 385 6050

Email: info@gerrycoffey.ie Wishing our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

www.gerrycoffey.ie Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Beez Kneez

Early Educational Preschool & Creche

TY students in Glenamaddy Community College organised the collection of 62 shoeboxes for the annual Team Hope Appeal. Well done to everyone who donated a shoebox. Also in the picture is Ms. M. Griffin & Ms. C. Doherty (with some 1st year students).

Festive countdown at Tommy Dillon Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Farm Buildings Glenamaddy, Co Galway Tel. 086-3030827

A very happy Christmas & New Year from

Kilkerrin Road Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

Telephone: 094 9659187 Mobile: 087 2616955 Happy Christmas and a happy New Year from

GARVEY’S Pharmacy Glenamaddy

Tel. (094) 9659012 Open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 5pm

Pictured in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy earlier this week were Tom Cunningham, Pat Mulivhill, Paddy Cunnigham and Ja O’Neill. Photo: Michael Finan

Tommy Harte and Michelle Collins pictured in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel, Glenamaddy. Photo: Michael Finan

WISHING OUR CUSTOMERS A HAPPY CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR FROM

Sophie Raftery, Padraig Raftery, Michelle Collins and Marion Raftery, on duty in Raftery’s Oakland Hotel in Glenamaddy on Tuesday.

Photo: Michael Finan

Festive greetings from

25

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Christmas Draw in Coffey’s

Season’s greetings to one & all from Auriol, Sarah Jane & all in

Coffey’s

Traditional Irish Country Pub and Grocery

A Christmas Draw will take place on Tuesday, December 23rd in Coffey’s Bar, Lecarrow.

Tickets are available in the shop and the bar.

Prizes include bottles of spirits (Jameson, Hennessy, Bombay gin, etc), drink vouchers, and a top prize of a €100 voucher for Coffey’s Bar & Grocery.

There will be prizes for best dressed on the night, and music and Christmas carols. One ticket is €2 or you can get three for €5

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon • Phone: 090 6661118 • Email: Coffeysbarlecarrow

Christmas Draw on Tuesday 23rd – with music & Christmas Carols afterwards

Ring in the New Year with DJ Michelle Slattery

See Matt & the Jazz Cats!

Swing into Christmas with Matt & the Jazz Cats, playing at Murray’s Bar, Knockcrogery on Friday, December 19th from 9 pm. No cover charge. Donations to Roscommon Hospice on the night. All are welcome.

Pictured at the recent Christmas Sale in Athleague Community Centre. Photo: Michael Finan

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2025 from

Corskeagh Lounge Don’t miss out on our

Annual Christmas Party on Sunday 21st at 7 pm Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon Santa pictured with children from the Loughglynn area at the recent Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in the village. Photo: Michael Finan

Members of the Regan family pictured at the recent Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in Loughglynn.

Photo: Michael Finan

Pupils of Scoil Mhuire Lourdes, Loughglynn pictured at the recent Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in the village. Photo: Michael Finan

Rebecca and Declan Flanagan pictured at the recent Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Christmas Disco for playschool A Christmas Disco will take place in aid of The Jack & Jill Community Playschool on Monday, December 22nd at Campbell’s Bar, Ballinlough from 5 pm-7 pm. €5 entry fee. There will be a raffle and spot prizes.

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2025 from

TEL.: 086 3447073

Wishing all our Customers a Very Happy Christmas

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Festive greetings from

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Wishing our customers a Happy Christmas & New Year from

MIKE KELLY STONE

Limestone Building Materials

Bracknagh Ballymurray, Roscommon

M: 087 2996181 P: 090 663 4381 www.mikekellystone.com

Funeral Directors and Cremation Chapel.

Serving the community with dignity and understanding for more than a century.

Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

Church Street, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon.

Main Street, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon.

Phone: 094 98 60031 Mobile: 086 822 4235 Email: info@sharkeyfuneraldirectors.ie Happy Christmas and New Year Happy Christmas and New Year from

Junior pupils of St Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery pictured on Tuesday at rehearsals for the junior Christmas play, ‘The Christmas Factory’. Photos: Michael Finan

Senior pupils of St Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery, pictured on Tuesday at rehearsals for the senior Christmas play, ‘Olivia’ (an adaptation of the musical ‘Oliver’).

Photo: Michael Finan

Festive greetings from

27

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from

MEE’S

MEE’S

KNOCKCROGHERY

FRESH PIZZA MEE’S NOW AVAILABLE

Opening hours: Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday

06:00 - 22:00 07:00 - 22:00 08:00 - 22:00

KNOCKCROGHERY

KNOCKCROGHERY SEE IN-STORE FOR MORE OFFERS

Opening hours:

Opening hours:

F

N

SIP

€5.50 & SAVOUR Mon - Fri 06:00 - 22:00 WINE OF THE MONTH 07:00 - 22:00 ONLY 06:00 -Saturday 22:00 €12 Sunday 08:00 - 22:00 EACH

Mon - Fri Saturday Mee’s Daybreak Sunday Address:

BRANCOTT SAUVIGNON BLANC

07:00 - 22:00 08:00 - 22:00

Glebe, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

All offers valid from 04/07/2021 - 31/07/2021 unless otherwise stated.

Products are subject to availablility. Available while stocks last in participating stores.

A very happy Christmas and New Year from SEE IN-STORE FOR MORE OFFERS

Address:

SEE IN-STORE FOR MORE OFFERS

SIP &

WIN THE

BRAN SAUV BLAN Glebe, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Mee’s Daybreak Address: Pupils of St Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery, pictured on Tuesday at rehearsals for their Christmas plays. Photo: Michael Finan

Mee’s Daybreak

Glebe, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Wishing you a happy Christmas and New Year from

Coyle’s Pub Four Roads, Co. Roscommon F42 D298 Phone: (090) 662 3315

St Francis Nursing Home, Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway H53 DC 84

Wishing our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Email: info@stfranciskilkerrin.ie Website: stfranciskilkerrin.ie Telephone: (094) 96 59230 / 086 603 7434

All offe

Produc

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Festive reetings g Christmas om frPARTIES

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages

local SMEs and shop local this Christmas U n w r a p t h e M a g i c o f C Please h r i s t m asupport s at Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry!

Christmas

Happy Christmas & New Year from Keenans of Tarmonbarry Unwrap the Magic of Christmas at

PARTIES

Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry!

Christmas

Live Music Every Weekend in December!

PARTIES

Book Your Christmas Party for 2024 Now! Unwrap the Magic of Christmas at Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry!

Live Music Every Weekend in December!

Contact us at info@keenans.ie Book Your Christmas Party for 2024 Now!

Wishing C o nyou t aacvery t u Happy s a t Christmas i n f o @ kand e eNew n a nYear s . i from e

Live Music Every Weekend in December!

Book Your Christmas Party for 2024 Now!

Contact us at info@keenans.ie

Village Inn Christmas Party In Loughglynn, the Village Inn Christmas Party will take place this Saturday, December 20th at 9 pm. Live music by Mary Rose & Enda.

A Christmas jumper party will take place in Creighton’s on Saturday, December 27th, and a 25 card night will be held at the same venue on December 30th.

The Great Glinsk Tractor Run The Great Glinsk Tractor Run will take place at Glinsk Community Centre (F45 PX24) on Sunday, December 28th at 1 pm, with registration starting at 11.20 am.

In the Glencastle Lounge, there will be music and song with Roscommon Men’s Choir at 8.30 pm, followed by Bill Haugh at 11.30 pm.

Kevin Rabbitte and Marjorie Clifford, staff of Garvey’s Pharmacy, Glenamaddy. Photo: Michael Finan

TELEPHONE: 09066 27907

Website: www.doortec.ie • Email: doortecsales@gmail.com A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2025 from

JOHN’S of Doughill Phone: 087 2608829 All parties catered for

Glencastle Lounge GLINSK

FRIDAY 19TH DEC 25 Card Drive and Pool Competition

MON 22ND DEC 25 Card Drive

Peters-Brady family members pictured at the recent Ballymoe Christmas markets held at the Fr Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe.

Photo: Michael Finan

Jayden Wrightson pictured at his stall at the recent Ballymoe Christmas markets held at the Fr Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe.

Photo: Michael Finan

SUN 28TH DEC The Great Glinsk Tractor Run 8.30 pm: Music by Roscommon Mens Choir followed by Bill Haugh 11.30 pm: Mega Draw for the Zetor Tractor 6211 and other prizes

SAT 3RD JAN Glinsk GAA Annual Table Quiz at 9.00 pm sharp

All parties & functions catered for Wishing all our customers and friends a Happy Christmas and thanks for your support in 2025 from Tom, Dolores and staff

Lily Healy pictured at her stall at the recent Ballymoe Christmas markets held at the Fr Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe.

Photo: Michael Finan

Lena Ilczuk pictured at her stall at the recent Ballymoe Christmas markets held at the Fr Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe. Photo: Michael Finan

Festive greetings from

29

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Tulsk launches ‘Tulsk to Lapland’ walking challenge The community of Tulsk is gearing up for an ambitious fundraiser, the ‘Tulsk to Lapland’ walking challenge, aimed at collectively covering 2,499 km – the exact distance from Tulsk to Lapland – in just 24 hours!

Organised by St Mary’s LGFA in collaboration with Tulsk GAA Club, the event seeks to clear the remaining debt on a €700,000

development project that includes a new pitch and perimeter walking track at the club’s training ground.

The goal is to enter 2026 debt-free, allowing the facilities to benefit players and the wider community without financial burden.

Preparations are well underway, with club members and fellow locals increasing their steps through regular evening walks

under floodlights on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The main event is a 24hour walking marathon scheduled for December 26th and 27th, where participants will lap the new perimeter track continuously.

The wider community has enthusiastically embraced the initiative, with growing participation numbers highlighting Tulsk’s strong spirit

of volunteerism.

Adding to the fun, a ‘waxathon’ fundraising event is planned for Sunday, December 21st at O’Connor’s Pub in Tulsk, promising entertainment as participants undergo waxing challenges.

For more details or to get involved, follow the club’s social media.

Season’s Greetings to one and all from

Drumderrig House Private Nursing Home Abbeytown, Boyle, Co, Roscommon Tel: (071) 9662561 Email: paula@drumderrignursinghome.com Website: www.drumderrignursinghome.com Happy Christmas & New Year from all at

Noel O’Brien & Associates Surveying, House Design and Planning Mountbellew, Co. Galway Phone: (090) 9679506

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas & New Year

Patrick J. Nugent ELECTRICAL Rooskey, Co. Roscommon T: 071 - 96 38034

086 - 2691050 (Enda); 087 8101502 (Ronan); 087 - 2795179 (Paddy) wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2025 from Tommy and Teresa Cox

O’Meara’s

COX’S BAR

Mountbellew

Telephone: (071) 963 8023

ROOSKEY

Wishing all our customers a very

Happy Christmas WE ARE OPEN

St. Stephen’s Day 10am – 6pm

No. 12, North West Business & Technology Park, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

Tel/Fax: 071 9650999

Email: noonecarpetsandfurniture@eircom.net l

Domestic l Commercial l Industrial FREE MEASURING/ESTIMATES

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your support in 2025

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Festive greetings from

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas & New Year from

Mountbellew Dental Practice Dentist Dr. Ivan Gibbons

B.A.B. Dent. Sc (TDC)

090 9623794

Hygienist Services Maeve O’Brien

Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party

Services: Private and PRSI We offer the full range of dental care including fillings, extraction, crowns, emergency care, dentures, sports guards and whitening treatment

email: mountbellewdental@eircom.net

Martin Mangan and Mick McDermott pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Noel McPartland, Pat Kelly, Paul Cassidy and Martin Freeman pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

From Richard F Gormley Boston, USA Mary Hunt and Bernie Murphy pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year from

MARIANS

Bridie O’Brien, Ellen and Mick McDermott pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Bridge St, Boyle, Co. Roscommon P: (071) 966 2031 W: www.marians.ie

Nuala Creighton and Una Conway pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

KILBRIDE Community Centre

F42N277, Ros Comáin, Ireland Tel. (090) 662 9949 Email: Itakellykilbride@gmail.com Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Committee members Dympna McDonnell, Mamie Creaton, Michael Creaton, Una Conway and Nuala Creighton pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Michael Raftery and Joe Hunt pictured at the Loughglynn Senior Citizens Party in Creaton’s Bar, Loughglynn. Photo: Michael Finan

Festive greetings from

31

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Local towns & villages Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Kilteevan children send their bog butterfly artworks out into the world as postcards

Eileen Fahey (Kilteevan Tidy Towns) pictured with the Kilteevan NS senior class and the postcards of their bog butterfly artwork (Tóchar Stories).

The Kilteevan NS bog butterfly postcard series (Tóchar Stories).

Kilteevan NS pupil Adam pictured with his Common Blue (Tóchar Stories).

Kilteevan NS pupil Zofia pictured her Speckled Wood (Tóchar Stories).

Facelift for Parnell!

The Parnell Monument in Creggs is currently undergoing conservation work as the village prepares to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its unveiling in 2026.

The need for upgrade works to the monument was commented upon by the 2024 Tidy Towns adjudicator when they visited Creggs. This prompted the local community development organisation to apply for a Community Heritage Grant from The Heritage Council to ensure that the

work was done in accordance with various guidelines as the monument is a Protected Structure.

Conservation Archaeologist Gerry McManus drew up a report outlining the necessary work and this was submitted to the Heritage Council and resulted in the grant award. Work on the monument is currently ongoing. This will include repointing the masonry, re-painting lettering and completing the guard wall around the monument.

Creggs was the scene

The Parnell Monument in Creggs is currently undergoing conservation work

of the last public speech given by nationalist leader Charles Stewart Parnell in Ireland, when he addressed over three thousand supporters in the village on September 27th, 1891. He had travelled to Creggs against doctor’s orders, his arm in a sling due to rheumatic pain, and he was visibly ill.

Afterwards, he made his way back to Roscommon and took the train to Dublin before travelling on to his home in Brighton, England, where he died on October 6th in the presence of his wife, Katharine O’Shea.

The revelation that Parnell was having an affair with Katharine O’Shea caused major upheaval in political circles when it was revealed by her husband, who sued for divorce in December 1889. This resulted in a two-day trial in mid-November 1890, during which it was reported that Parnell was the longterm partner of Katharine (‘Kitty’) O’Shea.

This caused a huge split in the Irish Parliamentary Party and during 1891 Parnell travelled to the west of

Ireland, trying to shore up political support. Creggs, as a place synonymous at the time with mass evictions, was a Parnell stronghold and an obvious location for such a speech.

Few who attended the speech in Creggs could have foreseen that this major political leader would die within days at the age of 45, but his untimely death was to lend a significance to his final public speech in Creggs.

In 1946, a committee was formed to commemorate the centenary of Parnell’s birth and money was raised to erect a monument to Parnell in the centre of the village. The monument was unveiled at a well-attended event in the village by the then-Taoiseach Eamon de Valera on December 26th, 1946. Among those present were many people who had attended Parnell’s speech in the village over five decades earlier.

Commenting on the conservation works currently underway on the monument, Seán Beirne, Chairperson of Creggs Rural Development said: “As Creggs prepares to

Kilteevan NS pupil Ruth pictured with her Holly Blue (Tóchar Stories).

Last June, the senior class of Kilteevan NS got the opportunity to work with Tóchar Community Stories and Kilteevan Tidy Towns leader Eileen Fahey on a bog butterfly art project on Cloonlarge Bog. In November, Tóchar Stories returned to the schoolchildren to present them with a newly printed postcard series of their artwork – and a box of stamps – so they could send their bog butterfly cards out into the world!

Acting principal of Kilteevan NS Susan O’Connor said the project had been a wonderful opportunity for the whole school to get to know the local bog and its wildlife better, and for the children to create their own unique artwork – centred on the native butterflies of the bog – and be mentored by Tóchar Stories artist Annie Holland.

Many of the children, like Adam with his Common Blue butterfly, and Zofia with her Speckled Wood, said they were planning to send their cards to their grandparents living overseas. Ruth, with her Holly Blue, said the project had “really got her into nature” and she wanted to find out more and more.

Tóchar Community Stories is a storytelling engagement project under Tóchar Wetlands Restoration, a three-year scheme focussed on wetlands and bog restoration in the Midlands, co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Union under the Just Transition Programme in Ireland. You can contact Tóchar Stories via tocharwetlands.ie/ tochar-stories/.

Happy Christmas & New Year from

celebrate the 80th anniversary of the unveiling of the monument in 2026, it is timely that the monument undergoes conservation work, thanks to funding from the Heritage Council Community Grants Fund.

“As well as celebrating the 80th anniversary of the unveiling of the monument, we will also be celebrating the 180th anniversary of Parnell’s birth and events to mark these occasions will form part of the Heritage Week events in Creggs in 2026.”

KENNY’S of Rockfield

Dec 23rd Christmas Hamper Draw Dec 30th Music with Bill Haugh New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve Party

Tel No. 086 8129635

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Kilkerrin Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway www.west-bake.com

32 DRUMSHANBO MART

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

PLC

FarmingPeople Auctioneers, Valuers &

Livestock Salesmen DRUMSHANBO MART

CATTLE SALES DRUMSHANBO PLC Friday 30 Sep. at 7.00 pm PLC Ring MART 1: Dry Cows, Sucklers and In-calf Cows th

Auctioneers, &Valuers Ring 2: Valuers Factory and Store Heifers Auctioneers, Ring 3: Weanling Bulls and Bullocks Livestock&Salesmen Livestock Salesmen

AUTUMN SH/SHX SALEEVERY in conjunction with normal sale CATTLE SALE FRIDAY CATTLE SALES Friday 19th thDecember at 7.00 pm FridaySHEEP 30 Sep. at 7.00 pm SALE Ring 1: Dry Cows, Sucklers and In-calf Cows

Ring 1: DryThursday Cows,Heifers Sucklers and In-calf 29th Sep. 12.00 noonCows Ring 2: Weanling and at Dry Heifers Ring 2: Factory and Store Heifers Ring 3: ofWeanling and Bullocks Sale Store andBulls Fat Lambs, Breeding Ewes and Rams Ring 3:ANIMALS Weanling Bullocks **ALL MUSTBulls HAVE and 2 TAGS TO ENTER THE MART**

SHOWS & SALES

SHEEP SALE EVERY THURSDAY th normal sale AUTUMN SH/SHX SALE in conjunction WEANLING BULLS Tue. 4noon Oct 2022 Thursday 18th December at 12with Store and Fat Lambs and Breeding Ewes & Rams WEANLING HEIFERS th & STRONG HEIFERS Tue. 11for Oct 2022 SALE Phone the SHEEP Mart Office to book animals all sales th Thursday 29 Sep. at 12.00 noon Drumshanbo Mart PLC Drumshanbo Mart PLC PSRA Licence No: 003868

DOWNLOAD THE MARTBIDS APP TO VIEW SALE AND

BID PSRA Licence No: 003868 Sale of Store and Fat Lambs, Ewes REGISTER and TORams Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim K41Breeding 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

SHOWS & SALES

www.drumshanbomart.ie

WEANLING BULLS WEANLING HEIFERS & STRONG HEIFERS

FOLLOW THE MART ON FACEBOOK

Tue. 4th Oct 2022

New Reconstitution Drumshanbo Mart PLC Scheme for private forest owners affected

by Windblow PSRA Licence No: 003868

Drumshanbo Co Leitrim K41 KH61 Phone: 071 9641116/7 Mobile: 086 839 2568 Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com www.drumshanbomart.ie

Tue. 11th Oct 2022 DOWNLOAD THE MARTBIDS APP TO VIEW SALE AND REGISTER TO BID

FOLLOW THE MART ON FACEBOOK

IFA Farm Forestry Chair Padraig Stapleton has welcomed the announcement of €55 million to be made available for the new Reconstitutions Scheme for private forest owners affected by Storm Darragh and Storm Éowyn.

“Those with the 13,000 hectares of private forestry affected by both storms will be able to apply to the scheme in early 2026 once a valid felling licence is in place,” Padraig Stapleton said. “All conditions attached to the felling licence will continue to apply. The scheme will provide much needed financial support to landowners to restore damaged forests.”

The grant is proposed to be paid in two instalments: 75% of the grant in the year of replanting and the remaining 25% after four years. The grant rates offered vary depending on the replanting species as follows: Native Forests €6,744/ha, Broadleaf, mainly oak and beach €6,744/ha, Diverse Broadleaf €4,314/ha, Continuous Cover Forestry €5,421, Mixed high forests: Diverse Conifer €4,452, Mixed high forests with Sitka Spruce and coniferous high forest €3,858.

“It should be noted the level of support under the Reconstitution Scheme for Windblow depends on whether the forest was insured for the costs of reconstitution at the time of the storms. However, landowners who have already replanted, or are in the process of doing so, are eligible to apply for this scheme in early 2026 retrospectively once they satisfy the qualifying criteria,” the IFA Forestry Chair concluded.

Further details are available on the Department’s website.

Minister Heydon must revisit cuts to Sheep Welfare Scheme Payments – IFA IFA Sheep Chair Adrian Gallagher has said the Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon must revisit the linear cut to the Sheep Welfare Scheme and secure the funding necessary to pay farmers in full the €13/ewe the scheme provided for.

Adrian Gallagher said cutting the payment levels in the national exchequer sheep scheme is a retrograde step and sets a very dangerous precedent for the sector at a critical time.

He said production from the sector has fallen by over 800,000 head in the

past two years with generational renewal within the sector at crisis point.

The IFA Sheep Chair said the minister’s own party in advance of the last general election committed to providing €30/ewe through national and CAP funding, but his first act has been to cut the level of supports that sheep farmers will receive by €1.50/head.

Adrian Gallagher said sheep farming is the second largest farm sector in the country – “our most vulnerable sector” – and carried out in some of the

most difficult terrain and land types that is farmed.

The sector plays a pivotal role in the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the most rural parts of this country, he added.

The IFA Sheep Chair said it will cost just over €2m to pay all sheep farmers in the scheme in full, commenting that the minister can and must find this funding to honour his and his government colleagues’ commitments to sheep farmers.

He said sheep farmers entered the scheme in good faith. “We have carried out

Roscommon MART WATCH Cattle: There was a good entry of stock on offer at Friday’s cattle sale (December 12th), with a good trade for heifers, bullocks and stripper cows. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

Heifers fetched an average of €4.14 per kilo up to €5.25 per kilo, and bullocks fetched an average of €4.41 per kilo up to €5.81 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.51 per kilo up to €4.49 per kilo.

Dry cows, sample prices: LM - 755KG €3120 - €4.13 per kg, two AAX – 832.5KG - €2975 - €3.57 per kg, CHX – 650KG - €2920€4.49 per kg, and BBX - 690KG - €2610 €3.78 per kg.

Heifers, sample prices: CHX - 805KG - €3320 - €4.12 per kg, HEX - 775KG - €3140- €4.05 per kg, CHX – 720KG - €3040 - €4.22 per kg, Ø 1 AAX – 715KG - €2980 - €4.17 per kg, and CHX - 655KG - €2820 - €4.31 per kg.

Bullocks, sample prices: CHX - 825KG €3900 - €4.73 per kg, LMX - 820KG - €3890

- €4.74 per kg, CHX - 825KG - €3780 - €4.58 per kg, AAX - 685KG - €2840 - €4.15 per kg, and LM - 670KG - €2800 - €4.18 per kg.

Sheep: There was a good entry of sheep on offer at the weekly Sale of Lambs and Stag Ewes held on Wednesday, December 17th.

Prices for lambs made up to €177 while stag ewes topped out at €218.

The next sheep sale takes place in the New Year, on Wednesday, January 7th. 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.

Lambs, sample prices: 52.8kgs - €177 €3.35 per kg, 50kgs - €175 - €3.50 per kg, 49kgs - €172 - €3.51 per kg, 48kgs - €170 €3.54 per kg, 48kgs- €170- €3.54 per kg, and 55kgs - €170- €3.09 per kg.

Cast ewes, sample prices: 99kgs - €218 €2.20 per kg, 87kgs - €212 - €2.44 per kg, 100kgs - €164 - €1.64 per kg, 79.3kgs - €152 - €1.92 per kg, 80kgs - €128 - €1.60 per kg, and 56kgs - €86 - €1.54 per kg.

the actions on our farms and incurred the costs.

Sheep farmers do not have the capacity or resources to be shortchanged by the minister in this way.

“The decision to cut the

payments must be reviewed and the funding provided to pay all farmers in full the €13/ewe they expected from the scheme when incurring the costs of participation.”

Castlerea MART WATCH There were over 400 lots presented for sale on Thursday, December 11th. Despite the recent inclement weather conditions and anxiety over Bluetongue, a very good trade was reported, with a large attendance of buyers present trying to source stock. Small stock in particular were an improved trade, while the heifer and cow ring reported a similar trade to last week.

Heifers, sample prices: Lim 420kg €2400, Lim 415kg €2320, Ch 375kg €2100, Ch 365kg €2100, Lim 505kg €2880, Ch 650kg €2620, Lim 500kg €2610, Ch 610kg €2760, and Lim 475kg €2400.

Dry cows, sample prices: Lmx 815kgs €3100, Ch 835kgs €3050, Ch 740kgs €2760, Lm 640kgs €2480, Sim 640kgs €2480, Her 725kgs €2280, Sh 675kgs €2240, and Fr 465kgs €1210.

Cows with calves at foot made from €2500 to €2870, springers made from €1500 to €3580, and runners made from €630 to €1780 for continental lots.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Lmx 295kgs €1940, Lm 270kgs €1640, Lm 215kgs €1450, Ch 320kgs €2000, AA 365kgs €2000, BBx 370kgs €2040, Lm 390kgs €2150, and Ch 350kgs €1930.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 290kgs €1960, Lm 260kgs €1840, BBx 255kgs €1810, AA 240kgs €1200, Lmx 340kgs €2220, BBx 340kgs €2120, Lm 300kgs €1980, and Ch 310kgs €1800.

Bullocks, sample prices: Lmx 435kgs €2480, AA 480kgs €2470, Lm 375kgs €2390, AA 405kgs €2240, AA 395kgs €1950, Lm 540kgs €2700, Lm 500kgs €2630, Lm575kgs €2670, AA 560kgs €2470, and Ch 575kgs €2630.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday, December 18th), with a sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. This will be the final sale of 2025.

Castlerea Mart would like to wish all customers a merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

33

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Farming/NewsPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 66 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

2026 Sales Wednesday 7th January @ 11a.m.

Opening Sheep Sale Friday 9th January @11a.m.

Opening Cattle Sale (Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows) Bookings accepted until Tuesday 6th January @ 5 p.m.

Tuesday 13th January @ 4 p.m.

Opening Weanling Sale Also Springers –

Members of Roscommon PPN Secretariat Committee pictured alongside Roscommon County Council management, staff and guest speakers at the recent County Plenary Meeting in the Abbey Hotel.

Bookings accepted until Thursday 8th January @ 5 p.m. ************************************************************************

The management and staff of Roscommon Mart would like to wish all our Customers, Shareholders and Friends a very Happy, Healthy and Safe Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Thank you for your custom in 2025 and we look forward to your continued support in 2026.

Roscommon PPN’s successful Plenary meeting

Roscommon’s Public Participation Network (PPN) hosted a highly successful County Plenary Meeting and networking event for community groups in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, on Wednesday, November 26th.

The independent network is facilitated and co-funded

by Roscommon County Council in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, alongside the PPN Secretariat. The theme of the Plenary was ‘Together for Sustainable, Inclusive and

Informed Communities’.

The event, chaired by Paul Clabby (PPN Officer with Roscommon County Council), attracted a strong turnout of community groups. Attendees were updated on various network developments, funding opportunities, and the range of local supports and services available.

The importance of community engagement, building resilience, and strategic development were just some of the topics highlighted over the course of the evening. Proceedings opened with an introduc-

tory showcase of local stakeholders, facilitated by Jody Moylan of the Council’s PPN Unit.

Welcoming participants, Vincent Moran (Chairperson of Roscommon PPN), and Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council) emphasised the central role of the PPN in strengthening community capacity and connecting local groups with the Council. They both outlined the importance of communities participating in local decision-making and enabling groups to access Local Authority

funding. Mr Tiernan also commented on how the PPN supports the formulation of key local policies through the nomination of community representatives onto local decision-making structures including Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) and the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).

The event featured a keynote address from Dr Maura Farrell, guest speaker and lecturer with the University of Galway with expertise in Rural Development, Agriculture and Geography. Dr Farrell

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

Find us on facebook

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Pictured in the back row are Paul Clabby (Roscommon County Council/PPN Officer), Maria Hall (CEO, Hub Planning), Niall Croghan (PPN Secretariat), Fiona Ni Chuinn (SEO, Roscommon County Council), Jody Moylan (Roscommon County Council/ PPN), and Cathriona MacCarthy (Community Department, Roscommon County Council). Front row, left to right are Chris Flynn (DOS, Roscommon County Council), Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council), Vincent Moran (PPN Secretariat Chairperson), and Dr Maura Farrell (University of Galway).

delivered a motivational address to attendees, highlighting the importance of community engagement, representation and participation in local development. Dr Farrell also put a spotlight on both the challenges and opportunities facing communities and the need for continued collaboration amongst all community stakeholders.

A highlight of the event was the formal launch of Roscommon PPN’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030, an ambitious five-year roadmap, outlining the network’s goals, vision, and aspirations. The launch was facilitated by Niall Croghan, PPN Secretariat member, together with Maria Hall, Planning Consultant and CEO of Hub Planning, who summarised the plan’s development and officiated its unveiling.

The event concluded with a distinguished presentation honouring County Roscommon’s entrants in the 2025 Irish Pride of Place Awards.

This recognition formally acknowledged the outstanding contributions of local community groups, whose initiatives have significantly advanced social development, strengthened civic engagement and enhanced quality of life across the county.

34

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

PropertyPeople

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY NEW TO THE MARKET 3 NO. 1 BED APARTMENTS TOGETHER WITH OFFICE SPACE

ROSSMORE HOUSE, LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD

OFFERS IN EXCESS OF €300,000

TO LEASE / LET COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE UNIT

LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN

NEW TO THE MARKET 15 ACRES APPROX OF HIGH QUALITY ROADSIDE AGRICULTURAL LANDS

OF APPROX 420 SQ MTRS/4,500 SQ FT

CRANNAGH BEG, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

PRICE ON APPLICATION

AMV:€195,000

(BESIDE ARDCARNE GARDEN CENTRE)

Leasing and letting agricultural land – understanding your options for 2026 ADVERTORIAL

< CATHAL MEARES (SHEEHY MEARES REAL ESTATE)

Many landowners are considering leasing or letting agricultural land as part of their long-term planning. For those who no longer farm directly but wish to retain ownership, a structured lease can provide secure income and clarity while keeping future options open.

Short-term letting may suit landowners who want flexibility for grazing, silage or seasonal use. It provides income without a long commitment and can work well where future plans are not yet decided.

Longer-term leasing offers stability for both the landowner and the tenant. When the agreement is a qualifying lease with a suitable tenant and a defined term,

the landowner may be eligible for income tax relief on the rental income, subject to meeting the required conditions. For many, this makes long-term leasing a financially attractive option.

A clear written agreement is essential. It should confirm boundaries, access, maintenance responsibilities, fertiliser use, water supply and payment terms. Proper paperwork protects both parties and prevents disputes.

At Sheehy Meares Real Estate, we assist landowners with shortterm land letting, multi-year lease arrangements, tenant suitability and checks, agreement preparation, rent collection and record keeping, and guidance on market rates and demand.

If you are considering leasing or letting agricultural land in 2026, our team can help you explore your options, understand the benefits and put clear arrangements in place that support your longterm plans.

For valuations, confidential land advice, or leasing support, contact Sheehy Meares Real Estate via phone on 090 6626579 or email at info@sheehymeares.ie, or contact Cathal (086 1409158) directly.

Houses wanted urgently – Sheehy Meares Team Earley This week, Sheehy Meares Team Earley is looking for properties in all areas due to a high volume of residential sales over the past number of weeks.

Semi-detached and detached properties in particular are required for mortgage-approved and cash clients.

All properties will be considered, and a free appraisal service is provided.

And remember – no sale, no fee!

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax. ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact Keith (086 0848590) or Amanda (086 1408613) directly.

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

35

36

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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

TRAILERS

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

Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875

Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

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

COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY

FIONA HEALY

Counselling & Psychotherapy ROSCOMMON

Individual and Couples Counselling For further information, please contact

087 7737063

hello@fionahealy.ie

–––––––– oOo ––––––––

FIONA HEALY

BSc (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy Accreditated Member of

PAINTER

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper.

Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation

COUNSELLING

FENCING/GATES

GARDENING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

JOE HEALY

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

SHOE REPAIRS/ LEATHER/ JEWELLERS

HILL’S Shoe Repairs

For all your fencing needs.

GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

l

l

Tel: 087 2172281 GARDENING

GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured Phone:

087 2721193 Kerins Plant Ltd

Tree Care & Plant Hire Residential & Commercial Tree Care

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

• Stockist of all Shoe Care Products • Handbag Repairs

l Tree Shearing

• Watch & Jewellery repairs – watch batteries, straps, mechanics, etc, replaced

l Dangerous Tree Removed

l Tree Felling

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

• Leather Goods – Belts, Purses, Bags, Wallets, Laptop Bags – all colours

Alan O’Toole

• WINDOW CLEANING • GUTTER & FACIA CLEANING • SOFT WASHING Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered

TELEPHONE

087 9795226 l

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

PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

• Watches, Pendants, Jewellery, etc. for sale and repair

ROOFING CONTACTORS

ALL TYPES OF ROOF REPAIRS • All leaks, gutters, ridge pointing and valleys of homes • 10% discount with this advertisement.

• Fully insured and work guaranteed for 5 years

• 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

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

Excellent quality

Phone: 083 0684011 <FIREWOOD. High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire.

Available in large bulk bags. Call 086 3312411. <FOR SALE: Firewood.

Tonne bags. Excellent quality firewood. €50 per bag. Also, excellent quality square bales of hay. €4 per bale. Also, Tonne bags of Ash firewood @ €60.

Call Tom 086 2628439. < TONNE BAGS OF HARDWOOD for sale.

Well seasoned.

Collect or delivered.

Tel. 083 8677996.

<FOR SALE: Firewood top quality firewood. Soft wood for sale. Well seasoned available in tonne bags. Covering all Roscommon. Tel. 083 3520332.

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION TO LET

Contact Mike 089 9661849.

TUITION

PLUMBING Plumbing & Maintenance

FIREWOOD / COAL/FUEL

SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Tree Services

l

Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6625521 All types of Footwear Repairs, Shoe Stretching, Orthopedic Shoe Lifts, Dancing Soles replaced (all colours), Shoe Cleaning, Stitching

WINDOW CLEANING

• 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

January Maths Revision Course 2026

Call Owen for ground work

Junior Cycle HL Maths: Friday 2nd January Leaving Cert HL Maths: Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th January Where: JACKSON’S, The Square, Roscommon

Call Padraic for concreting

For more information & to book your place contact:

Tar & Chip Driveways Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

086 895 3884 085 226 4664

–––– Free Quotation ––––

Deadlines for advertising is strictly 2 pm on Tuesdays

Lorraine Kenny

086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommon mathsgrinds@gmail.com

Booking Deposit Required

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION IN THE ALGARVE Albufeira, Portugal Luxury 1 or 2 bed apartments for rent, Sky TV, Shared Pool.

Long and short stays.

Telephone Sean: 087 2371716

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

37

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Classifieds

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

PODIATRIST

Richie Dooner

Tullys

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

l Luxury Bathroom Renovations

Sarah Fleming

l Kitchen/Utility/bedroom units

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

094 9620009

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

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 –

Dylan Byrne DIP CHFP

Main Street, Castlerea

Tel: 089 2551716

For appointment, phone: (089) 4142233

or

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

ELECTRICIAN

• Dept. of Health Approved • CORU Registered

For all aspects of footcare in Roscommon, Castlerea & Boyle

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

Phone: 083 1628531

Email: richie689dooner@gmail.com

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090 6621220 SOUL MATES

Don’t be alone!

DIP CHFP

Tel: 087 2982214

BSc (Hons.) Podiatry MCHSI, RGN

Any Grant work sought

Catriona Byrne

• 20 years experience •

ITA BETTS

l Sliding Wardrobes

SOUL MATES

Meet that special person for friendship and romance with like minded people.

DRIVING LESSONS

LAUNDRY

• EDT • PRE TEST • TEST HIRE • IMPROVER LESSONS

PJ McCormack Driving School TELEPHONE: 087 1406863

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.

CLEANING

Safe, secure and confidential

Tel: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250 Caramore Electrical Ltd.

Registered Electrical Contractor

• Domestic • Commercial • Agricultural

– All areas covered – No job too small!

Installation of ESB and Changeover Generator Switches

Tel. 085 7710856

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.

PLUMBING & HEATING

LMC Plumbing & Heating • Bathrooms/ensuite

LMC planning and design Plumbing • Wetrooms Installed • Shower Units • Oil Boilers and Stanley Boiler Ranges 085 7359120 • Grant Work undertaken

LMC

Call LMC Plumbing on 085 7359120

PROPERTY

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

38

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Classifieds

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

PAINTER

NATUROPATH

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

DENISE COYLE

For all your decorating needs

CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Mobile:

086 8115928

For Professional Advice Contact: Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie athlonechimneyrepairs@gmail.com

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered.

No Job too small.

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

PLANNING NOTICES

DAVID DUFFY 087 9662678 www.westside-gardening.com

Feeling out of balance?

Menopausal?

Lethargic?

ZYTO scan and iridology can help you understand where your body needs support and what your genetic challenges are Tel. 083 377 7204 Email: coylenaturopathy @gmail.com for more information www.coylenaturopathy.com

PLANT HIRE 3 Ton Mini digger and or 3 Ton Dumper for hire WITH DRIVER. Special rates for weekend hire.

All aspects groundworks undertaken, 40+ years experience, trial holes, foundations (dug & poured), blockwork to foundations, floors poured, kerbing, fencing, drainage, footpaths, patios etc.

Percolation areas redone

AREAS WE COVER: • Gardening • Landscaping • Carpentry • Patios • Fencing/ Post & Rail/ Farm Fencing • Power Washing • Concreting

GROUND WORKS

INSULATION

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

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

€3,500

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER Submit your

094 9373445 087 9100477

l Tree/Hedge Removal l Fully insured l References available

091 768 768

www.ecowise.ie

Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc ....

l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations

l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways

Call in or contact us for free

USEFUL SERVICES

0 From €11

GF Ground Works

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

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

SERVICE

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

Tel.: 083 8677996

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

GARDENING

NATUROPATH

PLANT HIRE

BLINDS

GARDENING

Classified online

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

from

Roscommon Driving School Tel. 087 2295551

SHOWROOM:

F42 W294

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Telephone: 090 66 33026

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

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the 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: Waldron & Co. I Architects & Engineers (Agents), The Square, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Tel : 094 9372120 I Fax : 094 9372911 info@waldrons.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Proposed Alteration Of A Previously Permitted Residential Development Which Was Granted Full Planning Permission Under Planning Reference Numbers PD/24/60235 And PD/25/60047 To Now Include For The Proposed Construction Of A Two Bedroom Bungalow Type Dwelling House Together With Vehicular Entrance And Connection To All Existing Services All Of Which Is The Same Design And At The Same Location As What Was Previously Granted Full Planning Permission Under Planning Reference Number PD/17/2 At Lisnaree, Lisroyne, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon For Avenir Homes Ltd. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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

WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS Racecourse Road, Roscommon

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, James McGlynn, intend to apply for Permission / Retention Permission for development at Ballytoohey, Termonbarry, Co. Roscommon, N39 AP94.

The development will consist of: - Permission for the provision of a new pedestrian access.

- Retention Permission for a two-door garage, a tractor storage shed, and the western and southern boundary walls as constructed, together with all associated ancillary site works and services.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Seamus Croghan, intend to apply for permission for development at this site Clooncagh, Strokestown, County Roscommon.

The development will consist of the construction of a machinery shed, a farm office, and associated site works at an existing farmyard.

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: Seamus Croghan.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Colin Flynn, intend to apply for planning permission for demolition of existing derelict ruinous structure & agricultural sheds/stables, proposed dwelling house, domestic garage/store, proprietary treatment system, percolation area, and associated works at Carrowreagh, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its 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 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application by the Planning Authority.

Signed: Stephen Blake, M.R.I.A.I., Registered Architect (Agent), Trihill, Ballinmore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway 087 635 8949 / 090 66 24681 / stephen@sbarchitect.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Cathal Dunning, intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a new four bay slatted shed incorporating feeding passage, concrete apron, water recycling tank, access road and all other ancillary site works and services.

At; Cloonown Townland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the planning authority with the planning application, and the Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority.

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: Cathal Dunning.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ronan and Fiona Kildea intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for a change of house design and relocation of the garage previously permitted under Planning Register Reference Number PD/22/663 (An Bord Pleanala Reference Number ABP-319526-24) and to construct all necessary site works at Corraree and Ballygatta, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

The 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 prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five 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 planning permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant planning permission.

Signed: Ronan and Fiona Kildea.

Our deadline is STRICTLY 2pm on Tuesdays

39

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Classifieds

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

APPOINTMENTS

QUIGLEY Eileen Creevy, Roscommon (26th Anniversary)

In loving memory of

CONLON Doreen Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Church Road, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co Roscommon

St. Patrick’s N.S., Frenchpark

Applications are invited by email to applicationsfrenchparkns@gmail.com

Further detail regarding duties etc, are available on the school website: www.frenchparkns.com Closing date Monday 5th January 2026

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, James Fannon, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to construct a dwelling house and domestic garage and install a septic tank and percolation area and all associated site works at Bushfield, Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Roscommon.

Mobile:086 8551835.

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 publica opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing 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 submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Emma Coyne Intend To Apply For Full Planning Permission From Roscommon County Council For The Proposed Erection Of A Single Storey Modular Type Structure To The Rear Of Existing Two Storey Semi-Detached Type Dwelling House To Be Used As A Treatment Space And All Ancillary Site Works At No. 5 The Paddock, Athleague, 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 and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Agent; Brendan McVeigh – BM Draughting & Design.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Keadue Werner, intend to apply for planning permission to retain single storey extensions to single storey detached dwelling house at Drumlahard, Leitrim Village, Co. Roscommon (Eircode N41 Y542).

The 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 prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five 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 planning permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant planning permission.

Signed: Keadue Werner.

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 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 prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five 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 planning permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant planning permission.

Signed: Stephen Mannion and Carolyn O’Malley.

Our deadline is STRICTLY 2pm on Tuesdays

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com In loving memory of Eileen Quigley, Creevy, Roscommon, who died on 14th December 1999.

R.I.P.

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

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

Loved and always remembered by your sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-inlaw, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mass has been offered.

KELLY Vincent

PLANNING NOTICES

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

Died 17 December 2024 (1st Anniversary)

VACANCY FOR

School Secretary

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

COSTELLO Pat

Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who passed away on the 21st December 2005 (20th Anniversary)

We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

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

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

Remembered with love and affection by her family.

Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 20th December at 10am.

NEARY Tom High Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway (2nd Anniversary ) In loving memory of Tom who died on the 17th of December 2023.

A silent house, an empty chair, something missing everywhere, Life goes on, we know that’s true, but it’s not the same since we lost you.

Your gentle nature, your quiet ways, leave memories of bygone days.

Never selfish, always kind, those are the memories you left behind.

Always loved and remembered by your loving wife Lucy, daughter Ruth, son Paul, son-in-law John, Paul’s partner, Tracy, adored grandchildren Aoife and Sean.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 21st December in St. Eithne and Fidelma Church, Tulsk at 11.30am.

CLYNE (née Dalton) Marcella Stone Park, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

DOWD Thomas (Joseph) Corrspark, Glinsk, Ballymoe, Co. Galway

FINNERAN Michael Glanduff, Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary )

(9th Anniversary)

In memory of Thomas (Joseph) who passed away on 22nd December 2016.

A smile for all, a heart of gold one of the best, this world could hold.

Never selfish, always kind these are the memories you left behind.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed by your loving wife Celia, son Tom, daughters Marian, Sandra and Martina, grandchildren and extended family.

In loving memory of Michael Finneran whose 6th anniversary occurs on 14th December, 2025.

Memories are like threads of gold, they never tarnish or grow old.

Always remembered by Patricia, Laura, Louise, Darren, and the Finneran and Curley families.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on 21st December at 11.30am.

May he Rest in Peace.

GILLOOLY Dan One of the best this world could hold, never selfish, always kind.

Deep are the memories precious they stay, no passing of time can take them away.

A silent thought, a quiet prayer for a special person in God’s care.

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

Loved and always remembered by your sons Noel and Des, daughter Frances, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ballinaboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon Special memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year.

Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you today.

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

Fondly remembered by loving wife Miriam and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church Ballygar on Sunday the 18th of January 2026 at 10.30 am.

Submit your classifieds online or call us on 090 6634633

In loving memory of Marcella who passed away on 17th December 2021

(7th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 24th of December, 2018

It was a sudden parting, those who loved you dearly are the ones who can’t forget.

We often sit and think of you and think of how you died, to think you could not say goodbye before you closed your eyes.

Your life was one of kindly deeds, a helping hand for other’s needs, sincere and true in heart and mind, beautiful memories left behind.

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

Loved and sadly missed by her husband Tommy, daughters Elaine and Lisa and extended family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 21st December at 10am.

CASLIN Albert (9th Anniversary) - Treasured memories of dear Albert, late of Lisroyan, Strokestown, who passed away on Christmas Day 2016.

“In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be remembered”

Always loved and remembered by Teresa, John, Felecia, Peter, Niall and Dominic, son-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

Loved and missed every day by your loving wife Vera and children David, Sinéad, Dermot, Aoife and Siobhán, sons-in-law Martin and Neil, daughters-in-law Rosemary and Leeanne and adored grandchildren Helena, Samuel, Alannah, Cillian, Seání and Faolán

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 21st December at 11.30am in Strokestown Parish Church.

40

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES KELLY Vincent

MURPHY Nicola

Cordrumman, Scramogue,Co. Roscommon

Gortlustia, Scramogue, County Roscommon (Formerly Clooncannon, Ahascragh, County Galway)

EGAN Alan

MULRY Thomas (Tom)

Ballygar, Co. Galway

Jamestown, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon

(2nd Anniversary)

Died 20th December 2024 (1st Anniversary)

Lily, Tom, the late Bridie and family of Vincent Kelly, Cordrumman, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon, wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with us during our recent bereavement. We deeply appreciate everyone who attended Vincent’s repose at his home and those who joined us the following day at his Funeral Mass in St. Anne’s Church Scramogue.

We are sincerely grateful for the many Mass cards, floral tributes, online condolences on RIP.ie, and to all who joined the Funeral Mass through the live stream.

Our thanks to Father Yarrick for his home visit on Vincent’s arrival for repose and for offering prayers with the family. We also thank him for celebrating the Mass of the Resurrection and for officiating at the graveside service. Thank you, James, for the beautiful music, which added greatly to the service. To Vincent’s nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren who took part in the Mass, your contributions made his final journey truly meaningful, and we are deeply appreciative.

Our appreciation to Nicola for arranging the live stream, thank you.

To Vincent’s dear neighbours and friends—well known for their late-night and early-morning rambles with him—thank you for your kindness, compassion, and companionship. We are especially grateful to those who provided food and refreshments for the family, and to those who stayed with Vincent during his repose, sharing stories and fond memories. Your support will never be forgotten.

We extend our thanks to the grave diggers for preparing Vincent’s final resting place with such care.

To Aidan, Vincent’s undertaker and neighbour, thank you for your professionalism, attention to detail, and the compassion shown throughout the Funeral arrangements. Everything was carried out with the utmost respect.

Finally, we offer our deepest appreciation to the staff of the County Nursing Home in Roscommon for the exceptional care Vincent received over the past six years. To Dr. Crosbie and the multidisciplinary team, thank you for your expertise, compassion, and dedication. To the nurses who cared for Vincent daily, we are especially grateful for the comfort you provided him and for always taking the time to update us during visits, despite your busy schedules. Your kindness and support will forever be remembered.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a sincere expression of our appreciation for the kindness and compassion shown to Vincent and his family.

“You left this world, but not our hearts, From us you’re never truly apart.

Your unseen steps are always near— Still loved, still missed, forever dear”.

Vincent’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in Saint Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Sunday 21st December at 10am.

We, the family of the late Nicola Murphy wish to express our sincere gratitude for the kindness and support shown to all of our family during Nicola’s illness and Funeral.

Thanks to all those who sent Mass cards, left online condolences and all who attended our house to pay their respects.

A special word of thanks to all our friends, extended family, neighbours and work colleagues for the unwavering support shown during the Funeral and over the past year.

Thank you to all from the local community and St. Barry’s GAA club who were extremely supportive and generous in giving up their time stewarding and helping out for the days of the Funeral.

A very special thank you to Kieran Leavy who organised everything for the Funeral and made sure Nicola’s final journey was as she would’ve wanted.

We would like to express our gratitude to Fiona and Keen Print for providing beautiful booklets with photos for the ceremony.

Thanks also to Fr. Eamonn O’Connor, Fr. Jarrick and Fr. Larry Behan who celebrated Nicola’s Funeral Mass and thanks to the grave diggers who prepared Nicola’s final resting place. Thanks to the Reynolds family for the beautiful music during the Mass.

Thanks to David, Lisa, Barry and Annette and all the staff in Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry for providing a lovely meal after the Mass.

A special thank you to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease association for their support since Nicola was diagnosed and for providing all the equipment necessary to give Nicola the best ability to live life to the full during her illness.

Lastly, a very special word of thanks to the wonderful staff in the Roscommon Hospice. The care shown to Nicola and the family was extraordinary. The care you provided allowed us as a family to make the most of our last couple of months with Nicola. We will always hold a special place in our hearts for you all.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our appreciation.

“When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little-but not too long, and not with your head bowed low, remember the love that we once shared.

Miss me but let me go.

For this a journey we all must take, and each must go alone.

It’s all a part of the Master’s plan, a step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know.

Bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.

Miss me but let me go.”

Nicola’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Saturday, December 20th 2025 at 11am.

In loving memory of Alan who passed away on 19th December 2023 We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

So rest in peace dear loved one, and thanks for all you’ve done.

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

Love and miss you. Alan, mum, dad, Tara, Hannah and Tyler.

–––––––– Will those who think of Alan today A little prayer to Jesus say Always in our thoughts and prayers, Ann, Michael and family

GILLERAN Martin St. Joseph’s, Kilteevan (28th Anniversary)

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

Lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Thursday, 25th December, (Christmas Day), at 10am.

Who passed away peacefully on 24th November, 2025.

The Mulry family wish to thank most sincerely those who sympathised with us for their kindness, prayers and support on our recent very sad loss. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful family, relatives, friends, neighbours and work colleagues for all their support.

We would like to thank all those who called to our home, who attended the removal, the Funeral Mass, watched online and attended the burial, especially those who travelled long distances. Also, thanks to those who supported with food and refreshments, the many condolences (online and handwritten), floral tributes, mass cards and messages left paying tribute to Young Tom. To Tom’s carers, we thank each and every one of you for the care and support you provided over the years and in the final days at his home.

To the Community Palliative Care Nurses who attended, thank you for the wonderful care, empathy and support you provided. Thanks also to Dr. Martin Daly and staff from Ballygar Medical Centre for all your care.

Our thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for his kindness to our family and for his wonderful words of comfort and support during Tom’s final days, removal and beautiful Funeral Mass.

We would like to thank Michael Dempsey of Dempsey Funeral Directors, Ballyforan for his compassion, guidance and professionalism throughout the Funeral period.

Thank you to the gravediggers for preparing Tom’s final resting place with such care, attention and dignity, and thanks to Fallon’s Bar, Ballygar for the food afterwards.

To Tom’s friends, especially his sheepdog trainer colleagues for sharing memories while visiting him and also welcoming him in your homes.

Thanks to our neighbours for the candle lit guard of honour on return home after the removal, and to the members of the Four Roads Hurling Club for the Guard of Honour on arrival for the Funeral Mass.

To the Kenny Family and staff at Maureen’s, Ballyforan, thank you for providing food and refreshments.

Thanks to Tim and the staff at the Hodson Bay Hotel for the beautiful meal provided after the burial.

On the 4th October 2025, Tom celebrated his 100th birthday and we are very thankful that he reached this incredible milestone in good health, and that his family and especially his 25 grandchildren got to spend so much time with him. For this, we are eternally grateful.

As is it not possible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgment conveys in some small way our family’s deep appreciation for all your support and kindness during this time. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions

Tom’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in the Church of Christ the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Tuesday, 23rd December 2025 at 7.00pm.

“God has you in his keeping now and we have you in our hearts forever”

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

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

41

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES MEE Bernadette and Frank Feevagh, Dysart and Hawthorn Drive (9th and 19th Anniversary)

SHALLY (née McHugh) Anne

MULLEN (nee MURPHY) Mary

MULLANEY Alphonsus (Al)

CONNOLLY Tommy

Ballymoe, Co. Galway

Tonlagee, Roscommon and Elphin Street, Strokestown

St Theresa’s Terrace, Roscommon and formerly of Liverpool

(21st December 2025 – 1st Anniversary)

The Acre, Cloonakilleg Mount Talbot

(6th Anniversary)

(10th Anniversary) 25/12/1953-20/12/2015

Who left us on 23rd December 2022 (3rd Anniversary)

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

Always remembered by family, relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday, 8th February 2026 at 10.00 am.

CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN

CUNNINGHAM Bridie & Michael Meelick, Boyounagh, Glenamaddy

In loving memory of Anne, who died on 18th December 2019 Gone are the days we used to share But in our hearts you are always there The gates of memory will never close We miss you more than anyone knows With tender love and deep regret We who love you will never forget Sadly missed and always remembered by her loving family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 21st December at 11am in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House .

With all the celebrations and Christmas drawing near, what a lovely time we’d have, if only you were near.

We’d spend so many happy hours, the way we did before, Christmas is for loved ones and I couldn’t miss you more.

When I wake on Christmas Day, I’ll look to Heaven above, and I’ll remember every smile and think of you with love.

HANLEY Peg Mount Cashel, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon.

(9th Anniversary)

Nanny & Grandad, When Robins appear, we know you are near.

KIERNAN Mona and Felix Jnr Who died 27th December 2008 and 4th June 2006 (17th and 19th Anniversaries)

DOLAN Caitriona 22 Beechgrove, Ardnanagh, Roscommon Town (9th Anniversary on 19th December 2025)

New Ballagh, Rahara, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

_________________

From your son Alan, daughters Christina, Breeda and grandchildren.

First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe at 7.00 pm on Saturday 20th December, 2025.

EGAN Gerard

_________________

Our minds still talk to you, our hearts still look for you, Our souls know you are at peace, Every single day, we miss you.

Our lady saw you getting tired, And a cure was not to be, So she put her arms around you and whispered, “Come home to me” With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away.

Although we loved you dearly we could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating, hard-working hands at last to rest Our Lady broke our hearts to prove to us, She only takes the best.

No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye, You were gone before we knew it, And only God can tell us why.

Mass has been offered

The family of the late Alphonsus (Al) Mullaney would like to express our appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us following the passing of Al. Sincere thanks to those who called to the house and brought food and refreshments. Thank you to those who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial.

We are grateful for the many Mass Cards, personal messages, online condolences and flowers received.

We thank the staff and management of St. Francis Nursing Home, Kilkerrin for their excellent care of Al and the staff in Portiuncula Hospital, also Dr. Cunningham, Glenamaddy and the Kelly Henry Medical Team, Castlerea.

We thank Fr. Julian Lupo and Fr. Pat O’Toole for the celebration of the Funeral Mass and Annette Griffin and John Staunton for the singing and music.

Our thanks to the gravediggers who made Al’s resting place look so well. We thank Niall Flanagan Undertaker for his professionalism and attention to detail.

We would like to thank everyone in Hestor’s Golden Eagle for catering for us on the day of the Funeral.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this as a token of our appreciation and gratitude.

In loving memory of our dear mother Peg Hanley who died on St. Stephen’s Day 26th December 2016

In loving memory of Gerard who passed away on 21st December 2021 (4th Anniversary)

Also remembering our uncle

Michéal O Neill Cullenoira Who passed away on the 23rd December 2018 (7th Anniversary)

God bless you mother and father in your graves.

God keep you in His care, and may He listen to my heart and hear my fervent prayer.

May you have peace and rest at last, from every care and woe, and may you sleep in comfort from the winds and rains and snow.

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

Sadly missed and always loved by your sons Joe, Martin and Declan, daughter Fiona, grandchildren and families.

From Gerard, Majella, Joe and Emma.

Anniversary Mass has been offered in Knock.

Mass has been offered.

Out of our lives you may be gone, But in our hearts you still live on, No words we write will ever say, How much we miss you every day.

Love always, Marty and Leah x x No length of time can take away, Our thoughts of you from day to day, Quietly today your memory we treasure, Loving you always, forgetting you never

Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you today.

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

Loved and remembered every day by your wife Nellie and family.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday December 21st in the Church of Mary Immaculate, Rahara at 10am.

We’re missing you a little more each time we hear your name.

We’ve cried so many tears, yet our hearts are broken just the same.

We miss our times together, things in common we used to share.

But nothing will ever fill the emptiness now you are no longer there.

We’ve so many gorgeous memories to last our whole lives through.

Each one of them reminders of how much we are forever missing you.

‘Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day’ At peace with his loving wife Veronica, son Tomas and father Mick.

Loved and missed always Your heartbroken daughters Sarah & Brigid Mother Eileen, granddaughters Deirbhle, Clodagh & Niamh, son-in-law Ian, your sisters and brothers and extended Connolly/Cooper family.

Mass will be held for Tommy, his wife Veronica and son Tomas at 7pm on the 19th December in The Church of The Good Shepherd, Tisrara

McTIERAN Bernie Cooltigue, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon.

(17th Anniversary)

Thinking of you today and always, love Pat, Marie, Enda and Roseanne xx

THANKSGIVINGS THREE DAY MIRACLE PRAYER I’m so grateful to take this time to thank my heavenly Father, Son and Holy Spirit for always being there for me through my life. I would especially like to thank you Jesus my Lord Saviour for as you died on the cross you gave me your Mother. My Mother I know in my heart you are my guide to heaven. I would like to thank you with all my heart for mothering me through my life. I have full faith once I publish these prayers my favour will be granted. Thanks be to the lord! Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favors. This time I ask for 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 favor, not mine. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favor will be granted. Never known to fail. M.C.

In loving memory of Bernie

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

Sadly missed by Maureen and family.

Masses offered.

42

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

SportsPeople

Countdown to festive racing Horses for Courses Tomorrow evening (Friday), there is racing on the all-weather at Dundalk at 5 pm. Saturday afternoon sees the last of Irish racing before Christmas at Thurles, starting at 12.12 am, featuring the Racing TV Now Novice Chase.

Then there’s no more racing in Ireland until St Stephen’s Day, when Christmas Racing Festivals start at Leopardstown and Limerick with the Boxing Day meeting in the north at Down Royal. We will look at the festive racing cards in next week’s column on Monday.

Coverage on TV is only on Saturday with four races from Ascot, including the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle, and two races from Haydock including the listed Mares Novice Hurdle on ITV 4 and Virgin Media 1.

Due to expected rain, today’s card at Exeter is subject to an early morning inspection. Ffos Las had an inspection last evening

and there were no results in as we go to press.

The Hunt Family Fund December Gold Cup at Cheltenham was won by a winner of two hurdles and a chase for WP Mullins’ yard, Glengouly, having its first run in over a year. The 9-Y-O under Sean Bowen led from start to finish for trainer Faye Bramley and returned 33/1. Bramley is eyeing a return to Cheltenham on New Year’s Day with Glengouly following his win on the course on Saturday for the £100,000 Betfair Exchange Handicap Chase.

Fairyhouse review Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy continued their good run opening their account for the day with Jacob’s Ladder, 10/3, in the Beginners Chase at Fairyhouse on Saturday.

They quickly followed with The Enabler, 6/4f, in the Novice Chase. Bally Free, 10/3, completed a treble when rallying to win the Fairyhouse Christmas

Action from last weekend’s Oscar Traynor Cup game in Lecarrow in which Roscommon and Mayo drew 2-2. Ryan Larkin (Castlerea Celtic & Roscommon).

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

by Tom Red

Party Maiden Hurdle. Fellow Meath trainer Noel Meade had a double with Ben Hur, 7/4f, and Fierce Handay, 11/10f. The former was ridden by Donagh Meyler and Fierce Handay by Mark Walsh.

At Navan, Elliott won the first on Sunday with Spinola Bay and Sam Ewing at 13/2. In the bumper, Oh My Word added to his win on the track last month claiming the listed bumper for Athlone’s Tom Cleary under Galwegian Derek O’Connor. Cleary describes the horse, his first listed winner, as the best he has trained. There are no plans made but the Dublin Racing Festival or Cheltenham must be in his sights.

On Monday, Naas lived up to its nickname ‘The punter’s graveyard’ with no winning favourite, despite Elliott and Kennedy having another treble with Prends Garde A Toi, 5/1, Open Secret, 5/1/ and Oldschool Outlaw at 3/1.

Trainer Ritchie Morrissey, better known for handling point to pointers, last trained a track winner over twelve years ago, and his It’s Bobsled Time won the Academy Hurdle at a massive 250/1 under Michael Kenneally with the final two flights omitted due to low sun. There are joint holders of the record starting price of 300/1 in Ireland with Luke Comer’s He Knows No Fear at Leopardstown in 2020 sharing it with Conor O’Dwyer’s Sawbuck in Punchestown in 2023.

Racing news Patrick Mullins, who rode Clay Pigeons to win at Catterick on Tuesday for his father, was aboard Road To Home in the Handicap Chase at Newbury yesterday in his quest to ride a winner at every British jumps track. It was his first time to ride at the West Berkshire track, but he could only finish third.

Another Irish-trained

Redwood Queen and Philip Byrnes part company at Wexford.

horse, the William Harvey-trained Daydream Nation, ran in the Amber River Life Landscaping EBF ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle and also finished third.

On Monday, the Irish Horse Racing Board referrals committee convened to hear the circumstances around how Philip Burns was unseated from Redwood Queen in the infamous claiming hurdle at Wexford back in May. The IHRB heard from external

parties and key stakeholders, including discussions with ex-jockey Leighton Aspell, who stated he believed the unseat was ‘deliberate’, while Davy Russell stated it was not deliberate and down to ‘indecision’. A verdict will not be reached until a transcript is available, which is likely to be after Christmas.

An ideal present?

Stuck for a present for a racing aficionado? Well

Roscommon Racecourse offers you its season ticket, now available for 2026 for only €85, which gives access to all ten meetings next year.

If you are an OAP or a student, you can get an even better deal with a season ticket for only €55.

Roscommon Racecourse season tickets are the perfect Christmas present for your racing relations or friends. They are available from roscommonracecourse.ie/tickets/.

Traynor Cup exit after draw with Mayo SOCCER: The Roscommon & District League Representative side bowed out of this season’s Oscar Traynor Cup competition when they drew 2-2 at home to the Mayo League.

With Galway beating Sligo/Leitrim 5-0 and only one team from Connacht progressing to the semi-finals, it means that the home side will have to wait until next season for a chance to progress in this national competition.

This was a hard-fought battle between two evenly matched teams who gave it their all. The Roscommon & District League side got off to a great start with the Shiven Rovers player Adam Farrell giving them the lead after two minutes.

The visitors were level four minutes later when a Ryan Connolly volley took a deflection before ending up in the home net.

Stephen Murray and Cian Kelly had two fine efforts well saved by the Mayo ‘keeper and with half-time approaching the St John’s player Daire Keenan was only inches away from scoring.

With 50 minutes played Tommy Hurley rounded the Mayo ‘keeper, but from a very tight angle his shot came back off the post.

Mark Maloney gave the Mayo side a 2-1 lead with 53 played, but eleven minutes later Stephen Murray had the sides level. Both teams had chances near the end but overall a draw was a fair result.

Division One Elsewhere, only a small number of games were played.

In the PK Trailers sponsored Division One, leaders Ballinahown and second-placed St John’s Athletic B both won their games.

Ballinahown travelled to Cloonfad and came away with a 3-2 win. Shane Allen gave Ballinahown a 1-0 lead after 30 minutes, but Michael McGreal had the sides level with 41 minutes on the clock. Shane Allen struck his second before half-time and Terry By-

rne added a third for Ballinahown just after the restart.

St John’s Athletic B had a 3-2 win over Ballinasloe Town at Lecarrow. Jamie Tiernan scored two and Conor Murphy one for the winners. Neil Morris created an opening for Michael McGarry to score his second for Cloonfad with ten minutes left to play. It cut the deficit to one but they failed to get an equaliser.

Division Two In Division Two, Carrick Town moved into third place in the table with a 6-1 win over Ballinagare at Carrick-onShannon.

Fursey Butler opened the scoring after 12 minutes and Amas Tobi added two more just before half-time. Narada Patrasco, Niall Bambrick and Brandon Boyce added three more in the second half with Tom Ward replying for the losers.

Rahara Rovers were beaten 3-2 at home to Cloonfad United’s second side. A strong wind dictated the play throughout what was a good game.

The visitors played with the aid of the wind in the first half and were rewarded with two Kealan Flynn goals for a 2-0 lead.

In the second half it was Rahara’s turn to dominate play and they were soon level through a David Dowd header and an Evan Donnelly chip over the goalkeeper.

Rahara pushed for a winner, but with six minutes left to play Eoin Heneghan scored to claim all three points for the visitors.

Women’s League In the Women’s League, Boyle Celtic beat Shiven Rovers 2-0 at Boyle. Emma Duggan and Ciara Byrne scored two late goals to secure all three points.

There will be no games over the coming weeks due to the Christmas break.

Wishing everyone a happy Christmas and good health in the New Year.

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Dowd’s ‘debut’ a date with Leitrim < SEAMUS DUKE

Mark Dowd’s first competitive game as Roscommon senior team manager will be an FBD League clash with Leitrim in Elphin on Sunday, January 4th at 1 pm.

A week later, on Sunday, January 11th, Roscommon will host Mayo at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park, also at 1 pm. The FBD League and Shield finals will be held on the weekend of January 17th-18th.

Roscommon seniors play New York in the first round of the Connacht Championship at Gaelic Park on Sunday, April 12th, a fixture that will see a large exodus of Roscommon supporters head stateside. The winners of that game will face Mayo at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park on the weekend of April 25th/26th. The Connacht SFC final will be played on May 10th.

Roscommon’s U-17s are due to begin their Connacht Championship defence with an away game against Sligo on Friday, March 20th.

Roscommon will have home games against

Leitrim and Galway and will travel to Castlebar to face Mayo.

The Roscommon U-20 footballers will start their Connacht campaign with an away fixture against Galway on March 18th. Roscommon will entertain Sligo a week later, then travel to play Mayo in Castlebar in round three, before playing Leitrim at home in the final round.

St Brigid’s, Strokestown fixtures confirmed Roscommon’s two reigning provincial football champions will play their respective All-Ireland semi-finals in the first week of the New Year.

In the AIB All-Ireland Club Intermediate Football Championship semi-final, Strokestown will face Genullin of Derry in Ballyshannon on Saturday, January 3rd at 12.30 pm.

In the AIB All-Ireland Club Senior Football Championship semi-final, St Brigid’s will play the new Ulster champions Scotstown of Monaghan, at Kingspan Breffni Park in Cavan on Sunday, January 4th at 3 pm.

s t t u p t r o h S

Flashback to the recent AIB Connacht GAA Intermediate Football Club Championship Final played in MacHale Park. Liam Moore loses his footing and takes David Neary (Strokestown) down. Neary & Co rose quickly to claim the title! Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

BUCCANEERS RFC

(NEWS FROM LOCAL GOLF CLUBS)

ROSCOMMON

SENIOR MEN: A very successful Christmas social evening was held at the clubhouse on Friday last, December 12th. Thanks to Joe Healy and Terry Benson for supplying the music and to Sean Collins and Michael Oates for their input as well. Usual competitions on Thursdays over the Christmas period, weather permitting.

THE LATE SEAMUS O’REILLY: The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the family of the late Seamus O’Reilly who was a very prominent member of Roscommon Golf Club all his life. He played on many teams over the years and was a regular on the course and in the clubhouse. May he rest in peace.

CHRISTMAS EVENT: The club’s Christmas social evening and a presentation of honorary life membership to Olivia Costello will take place this coming Sunday, December 21st at 7.30 pm. Any outstanding men’s prizes will also be presented on the night. It should be a great social evening. All members are invited to attend.

LADIES PRESENTATION: The final ladies presentation of the year was held last Sunday evening. Sinead Benedetti received a special presentation to mark her selection on the Irish Women’s Senior team in 2025.

COMPETITIONS: Keep an eye on BRS and the WhatsApp service for details of competitions being played over the festive period.

Roscommon Golf Club: Roscommon Golf Club Lady Golfer of the Year Joan O’Gara (right) pictured with 2026 Lady Captain, Una Clay.

Roscommon Golf Club: Sinead Benedetti (centre) with 2025 Lady Captain Una Gleeson (left) and 2026 Lady Captain Una Clay (right) after the special presentation to Sinead last weekend in recognition of her selection on the Irish Senior Women’s team in 2025.

Pirates ambushed as momentum stalled On a bracingly cold afternoon, Clogher Valley proved far too hot to handle for a puzzlingly off-colour Buccaneers in their Energia AllIreland League Division 1B game played at The Cran, Fivemiletown, last Saturday.

The Ulster side played at a sustained tempo that Buccs simply could not deal with as they ran in seven tries in a 43-14 victory that keeps the surprise packets of this division in third place.

Absentees and injuries did not help the midlanders’ cause. Nevertheless, this was a most disappointing display by the Pirates, coming as it did following three fine performances, including back-to-back wins.

Buccaneers have work to do ahead of the rematch on January 10th.

FUNDING AWARD: Buccaneers RFC is proud to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Royal London Championing Women’s and Girls’ Rugby Award, in partnership with The British & Irish Lions.

This recognition celebrates the club’s commitment to developing female rugby, fostering inclusion, and building a vibrant pathway for women and girls in sport.

GIRLS RUGBY: The club is proud of the positive developments in Buccaneers Girls Youth Rugby, which is going from strength to strength.

At the halfway point in their respective leagues, both our U-14 and U-16 Girls are topping Connacht 1A Leagues. We have a long way to go, but are in a nice position! These positive developments are testament to the club’s commitment to female rugby from our Minis Rugby to U-18.5 and Senior Women.

At youths, Buccaneers benefit from our close ties and involvement with Girls Schools Rugby in Athlone

at Colaiste Chiarán, Athlone Community College and Our Lady’s Bower. All three are now fielding Girls Rugby teams. We also have five players who recently won Junior Leinster 7s with Moate CS, namely Mila Fralkova, Kate Mallon, Saoirse Trainor, Emily Galvin and Molly Quinn.

We have eight Girl Youths players who are selected to train with Connacht Provincial Talent squads: Eliza Mallon, Kate Mallon and Jemma Eivers at Connacht U-16, and Chloe O’Connor, Mila Fralkiova, Cora Heneghan, Sally Fleming and Rose Fleming for Connacht U-18s.

We are looking forward to watching this group’s development and having more of our players joining Connacht in 2026 and hopefully following in the footsteps of our international star, Anna McGann!

Buccaneers are always open for new players and it’s a great time to ‘Give Girls Rugby a Try’ – especially girls with a 2012/2013 birth (for our U-14 squad). Training from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays at Dubarry Park training pitch.

We will play two matches – U-15 Development & U-16 level – at home in a friendly v Mullingar. Kickoff times are 11 am and 12.15 pm on Saturday, December 20th. This will round off a very successful year for all involved with Buccaneers Girls Rugby.

FUN RUN: Buccaneers RFC is holding its now traditional 5K Fun Run on New Year’s Day starting at 12 noon at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre. Registration takes place from 11 am. Entry is €10 with a family fee of €20. Proceeds are shared equally between the club and St Hilda’s Services. All welcome on the day.

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Power beats panache Controlled Dromore too strong for Creggs Energia All-Ireland Junior Cup Semi-Final Creggs RFC 21 (Mark Purcell two tries, three cons; Eoghan Coyle try)

Dromore RFC 32 (Dean Dillon, Harry Long (2), Harvey Patterson, Samuel Dillon tries; Jonny Hunter two cons, one pen) < KEVIN EGAN AT CREGGS RFC

A late scoring burst that saw Creggs run in three tries in the final quarter masked the extent of Dromore’s dominance in what turned out to be a one-sided AllIreland Junior Cup semi-final on Saturday afternoon, with the Ulster side crushing Creggs up front while also suffocating the flair and panache of the home side’s back division.

Centres Mark Purcell and Eoghan Coyle found their way across the whitewash in the latter stages but up to that point the Creggs runners were suffocated at source, having to pick their way through packed defences and with little space out wide when the ball was moved that way.

As is often the case, it was Dromore’s control of the set-piece and their ability to slow down the Creggs phases that led to that defensive control. Mattie Curley became the latest prop to be stricken off the availability list when he suffered a leg break in their recent win over Connemara and aside from the brief periods when Paddy Fitzmaurice was on the pitch, the scrum was a steady source of attacking ball and even penalties for the Ulster side.

The lineout was a more even contest

The Creggs players line up prior to last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green in Creggs. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

with both hookers struggling at times to deal with the swirling breeze, however it was at ruck time where Dromore captain and openside Richard Dickson was a constant thorn in Creggs’ side, with Gary Dillon playing his part from the number eight berth.

On the ball, Dillon was unstoppable.

It was his breaking of the tackled that opened the door for Dean Dillon to run in the opening try, and by the 12th minute, Dromore were 12-0 to the good, playing into the wind. Harry Long touched down for the second score off a lineout maul, capitalising on the first attack after James Brandon was issued a yellow card.

The second quarter was much improved from a Creggs perspective, albeit without any score put on the board. Both Nato Kiripati and Shane Dowd found their way

through the Dromore defensive line and had their attempts to offload intercepted, and that failure to eat into the lead proved costly as Dromore cut loose in the third quarter.

Gary Dillon’s 50 metre run to set up an easy finish for Patterson was a moment of real class, but it also involved the number eight bursting down a very narrow blind side channel from a seemingly innocuous scrum on the Dromore 10-metre line.

A stray diagonal kick from Ronan Dowd could be excused as an attempt to try and make something happen when there was no breaking the Dromore line but that too was ruthlessly punished with a catch and chip over the top from Jonny Hunter, setting up an attacking lineout.

Repeating their first-half trick, Matthew McMaster made the catch, the maul got

Action from last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green in Creggs. Mark Purcell grounds the ball to give Creggs their first try, which he then converted. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

rolling and Long was left with an easy touchdown.

To Creggs’ immense credit, they finished strongly and picked off three late scores to give themselves something to hang onto over the Christmas period. The All-Ireland dream may have died, but the domestic league and cup double remains on the table, starting with the first round of the Connacht Junior Cup in a little over three weeks.

Creggs RFC: Shane Dowd; Mikey Dunne, Mark Purcell, Eoghan Coyle, Dean O’Reilly; Ronan Dowd, Cormac Dolan; Tom Farrell, Nato Kiripati, Eoghan Cahill; Aodhán Kelly, Eoin Kelly; Lee Kilcoyne, James Brandon, Brian Diffley. Replacements: Paddy Fitzmaurice for Farrell (36-43), Ronan Cahill for A Kelly (43), Cathal Feely for R

Dowd (53), Ethan Glennon for Kilcoyne (59), Chris Duignan for O’Reilly (60), A Kelly for Kiripati (68), P Fitzmaurice for E Cahill (68), E Cahill for Farrell (80).

Dromore RFC: Jack Dillon; Aaron Stewart, Ethan Patterson, Dean Dillon, Samuel Dillon; Jonny Hunter, Harvey Patterson; Callum Bradley, Harry Long, Matthew Miller; Matthew McMaster, Matthew Thompson; Richard Dickson, Ryan Hughes, Gary Dillon.

Replacements: Rory Stewart for Miller (32-50 mins, 75), Ryan Hanna for Thompson (43), Adam Keating for Long (53), James Rudledge for Dickson (77), Blair McDonald for Dillon (80).

Referee: John Purcell (Munster Association).

Player of the Match Gary Dillon (Dromore)

Action from last Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green in Creggs. Eoghan Coyle goes in to score Creggs’ third try. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

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‘We still haven’t found our form’ REACTION < KEVIN EGAN

Creggs and Dromore had similar lines of form going into last Saturday’s AllIreland Junior Cup semi-final. Both were reigning league champions in their respective provinces, both sides had stumbled a little and lost three games already in their 2025/26 campaigns, outside of their good cup run.

Those similarities ended on Saturday at the Green and there was little that Creggs coach Kolo Kiripati could do but to just draw a line under it and accept that on the day, his side was second best.

“We did well this year just to get to where we did in the All-Ireland Cup. Dromore showed what a quality team they are, they went 18 games unbeaten

Creggs RFC Report

last year. They haven’t been quite as good this year so they definitely had something to prove today to help them get over the line,” the former Buccaneers player and captain said afterwards.

“Their backrows were very dangerous and they caught us off guard and we got punished from it. The lesson is that we can’t afford to switch off, we’ve got to make sure we look after those moments”.

Up front, particularly in the set-piece, Creggs were in trouble all day and the list of forward injuries, most recently Mattie Curley, took a toll.

“We were confident. We have guys that are capable of stepping up to fill in. But we were down two or three props and we were just trying to manage to field a team today. The boys did well, 29-0 down we came back and finished the game off well, the guys never gave up

and if we had started the game the way we finished, we would be in a different position now”.

As it is, the position Creggs are in is with some time over Christmas to regroup, with all eyes now on the first round of their defence of the Junior Cup. Loughrea meet University of Galway in the preliminary round on the first weekend of January, with Creggs set to travel to the winner the following weekend.

“We still haven’t found our form. I know the way my boys can play and I’ve seen them play way better than this,” said the coach.

“We’ve just got that connection right and try to cut down on these handling errors and stop giving the ball away.

Once we fix that we’ll be okay in the league”.

Creggs Head Coach, Kolo Kiripati, pictured at The Green last Saturday where his team were defeated by Dromore RFC in a high-scoring Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

THE GAIN LINE

Cup exit just one feature of busy weekend Energia All-Ireland Junior Cup semi-final: Creggs RFC 21 Dromore RFC 32. Creggs’ first team ended their bid for success in the AllIreland Junior Cup semi-final on Saturday afternoon, having come up against an experienced Ulster side, Dromore RFC, who finished winners by an 11-point margin (see match report).

U-18.5 BOYS: Creggs RFC U-18.5s battled it out in very wet and windy conditions in Galway last Sunday, coming away with a hard-fought draw against a strong Galway Bay side.

Galway Bay started fast, scoring two early converted tries to lead 14-0, before Cian Fitzmaurice got Creggs on the scoreboard with a try, converted by Kaylum Curran, to make it 14-7 at half-time.

Creggs came out firing after the break, with Kaylum Curran scoring and converting to level it at 14-14.

The second half saw both sides trade tries, with Cian Trimble running the length of the pitch for a brilliant solo effort and Cian Kiernan adding another (with both converted by Curran).

Galway Bay responded each time to level the scores, and the game finished 28-28 after a thrilling contest played in great spirit.

This was a strong performance from the Creggs team in what were tough conditions. The result keeps Creggs second in the table heading into the Christmas break.

U-15 BOYS: Creggs RFC U-15 boys welcomed Sligo to the 4G pitch on Sunday. The weather conditions were tough. Sligo opened the scoring after 14 minutes with a try and conversion. Creggs regrouped and fought hard to gain field position and held possession for long periods but were unable to get across the try line.

Sligo showed patience and worked

Eoghan Coyle of Creggs eludes two opponents during last weekend’s Energia All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup semi-final between Creggs RFC and Dromore RFC at The Green. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

the ball around to finally score again before half-time, leaving the score 12-0 to Sligo.

Creggs started the second half with some changes but the effects of a few injuries and the aftermath of the recent flu on the team was taking its toll. Creggs battled on but were not able to take advantage of some good field position and Sligo managed the game out to finish 12-0 winners.

Thanks to all the parents for helping out afterwards and for supplying refreshments for the travelling team.

U-14 GIRLS: Creggs RFC U-14 girls played Dunmore on Sunday in Creggs. The game started brightly for Creggs when Lily Higgins

picked up the ball from the back of a scrum and brushed off a few tackles to score the first try of the game.

Higgins converted her own try to put her team seven ahead.

Creggs scored again when they got a penalty on the Dunmore 22 and Lana Cox took the tap and passed to Mia Dolan who was stopped just short of the line. Keeva Glennon picked up the quick ruck ball and barged over the line for the try.

Higgins converted again. Half-time score: 14-0.

Creggs were growing into the game but Dunmore’s defence was excellent. They held Creggs up over the line on one occasion and due to defensive pressure Creggs had a

knock-on just before they touched down.

15 minutes into the second half all the Creggs pressure paid off when Higgins again picked from the back of the scrum and powered over the line to score her second try of the day. This time the kick against a strong wind proved too challenging.

Dunmore were never going to give up though, and they got a try back with eight minutes left on the clock. The Creggs defence worked hard to try and see the game out but Dunmore got in for one more score.

The game finished with a Creggs win on a 19-12 scoreline.

U-14 BOYS: Creggs Boys U-14s had an early Christmas present last

Sunday when they got their first victory of the campaign, defeating Portumna 29-17 in a friendly game in Portumna.

Creggs started well with a strong wind at their backs. They used it to their advantage and played most of the first ten minutes in the Portumna half. Portumna defended well but the pressure finally told when Harris Curran’s crossfield kick was collected by Daniel Foley who got in at the corner.

From the kick-off Christopher Walsh ran nearly the full length of the field to score in the same corner (as the first try was scored in) to extend the lead to 10-0. Next up was Rian Davis who got over for a real forward’s try, picking up from the back of a ruck and powering over the line. Harris Curran converted to leave the scoreline 17-0 at halftime.

In the second half Portumna struck twice early, closing the match to 17-10. With the momentum in their favour it was not long before they drew level to leave all to play for. Creggs ground out two more tries with a second one for Rian Davis and one for Adam Caulfield (converted by Zac Kelly) sealing a 29-17 win.

Creggs: Ethan Doyle, Donnacha Clarke, Rian Davis, Tadhg Duignan, Kyle Fahy, Sean Keane, Jack Donoghue, Zac Kelly, Liam Fleming, Harris Curran, Daniel Foley, Thomas Kelly, Oscar Brennan, Eoin Connolly, Donnacha Farrell, Christopher Walsh, Adam Caulfield.

LOTTO: The Club lotto jackpot was not won last weekend and for this weekend’s draw it heads to €8600. The lucky dip winner was Mark Keaveney. Please support our club by joining the lotto and giving yourself a chance of the Christmas Bonus.

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Heartbreak for St Dominic’s Torie’s story as Antrim champs prevail

AIB All-Ireland Club Camogie Junior ‘A’ final: Na Brídíní Óga (Antrim) 1-8 St Dominic’s 1-5 < SEAMUS DUKE IN ASHBOURNE

There wasn’t much Christmas cheer last weekend around Ballymurray, Knockcroghery and Lecarrow as a very brave St Dominic’s side lost out to the Antrim team Na Brídíní Óga in heartbreaking fashion in what was a very hard-fought and tense All-Ireland Junior Camogie A final played at the Ashbourne GAA grounds on Saturday afternoon.

The Roscommon champions were second best in the opening half at the end of which the Antrim side led by 1-6 to 0-2. St Dominic’s came storming into the game in the second half and dominated possession.

However they just couldn’t get the scores they needed and the Ulster side held on grimly in the end to get over the line.

When team manager John Haughey, his selectors, and the St Dominic’s players sit down to review Saturday’s game, they will know that despite a monopoly of possession, eight second-half wides and the squandering of another good chance – it dropped short – were to prove very costly.

On the plus side, St Dominic’s showed massive reserves of heart, determination, and courage to fight back in that second half. In the end, it was those missed chances, and the fact that the bit of luck you need to win a major title didn’t come their way, which left them empty-handed.

Lilly Murray and Aimee O’Connor were heroic all through while Kaitlin Egan was tremendous in that second half. They did not deserve to be on the losing side.

On a blustery, cold day, it was St Dominic’s who started best. The sides swapped points inside the opening 12 minutes with freetakers Torie Edgar and Niamh Fitzgerald on target with two frees apiece.

The Antrim side were the better team in the second quarter. Edgar was deadly accurate from the placed ball, two more efforts from her opening a two-point gap by the 19th minute.

Then in the 22nd minute, another long-range free from Edgar struck a post and Molly Woulahan was first to react to whip the sliotar to the St Dominic’s net. Another Edgar pointed free and a fine point from play from wing-forward Sarah Fyfe saw Na Brídíní Óga ahead by seven points at the halfway mark, 1-6 to 0-2.

St Dominic’s were a different team on the restart. Kaitlin Egan was coming into the game strongly at midfield while Aimee O’Connor and Lilly Murray were superb in the halfback line.

In the 36th minute, Dominic’s got the boost they needed when Niamh Fitzgerald’s free went all the way to the net, the gap now down to four.

Edgar pointed a free two minutes later for the Antrim team but the Roscommon champions were on

Action from last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, played at Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA Club. Na Brídíní Óga of Antrim defeated St Dominic’s of Roscommon by 1-8 to 1-5. Brídíní Óga’s Molly Woulahan tackles Michelle Rogers of St Dominic’s. Photo: ©INPHO/Leah Scholes top now, driving forward in search of scores. While they were in the ascendancy, St Dominic’s missed a number of chances from play and frees.

Then in the 46th minute Fitzgerald pointed a 30-metre free and two minutes later Kaitlin Egan scored a magnificent point from distance to reduce the margin to just three.

But Na Brídíní Óga were hanging on. As the final whistle neared, Edgar pointed a close-range free (29th minute) to extend the lead to four.

In the second minute of injury-time Niamh Fitzgerald reduced the deficit to three once again with a pointed free from 30 metres.

Time was running out and St Dominic’s just couldn’t scale the final few metres to the summit. The clock

Action from last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, played at Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA Club.

Na Brídíní Óga of Antrim defeated St Dominic’s of Roscommon by 1-8 to 1-5. Aimée O’Connor (St Dominic’s) is a picture of concentration.

Photo: ©INPHO/Leah Scholes

saved the Antrim ladies who survived to take the title for the second time in three years.

Best for the winners on the day were Jamie Woulahan, Bronagh Laverty, Sarah Fyfe, Torie Edgar and Molly Woulahan, while for St Dominic’s, Lilly Murray, Aimee O’Connor, Kaitlin Egan (second half), Niamh Fitzgerald and Niamh Watson (second half) were most prominent.

As John Haughey said afterwards, St Dominic’s must now start again, and the quest to win the Roscommon championship will be their number one priority. But if they can do that and learn the lessons of last Saturday, they can bring that long-awaited AllIreland title back to the club.

Na Brídíní Óga: Orla Donnelly; Maeve Mulholland, Jamie Woulahan,

Danielle Scally; Erin Coulter, Bronagh Laverty, Emer McCann; Leona Gillan, Orlaith Gould; Shauna McDonnell, Kirsty Laverty, Sarah Fyfe (0-1); Aimee Traynor, Torie Edgar (0-7, 6 frees), Molly Woulahan (1-0).

St Dominic’s: Ellen Cafferky; Sarah Jane O’Connor, Eimer McNally, Michelle Rogers; Hannah Murray, Lilly Murray (0-1, free), Aimee O’Connor; Kaitlin Egan (0-1), Caroline Dowling; Niamh Watson, Niamh Fitzgerald (1-3, all frees), Laoise Mahon; Anna Campbell, Aine O’Meara, Ciara Kilcommins. Sub: Michaels Lohan for SJ O’Connor (39).

Referee: Simon Redmond (Dublin).

Player of the Match Aimee O’Connor (St Dominic’s)

In last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, Na Brídíní Óga of Antrim defeated St Dominic’s of Roscommon by 1-8 to 1-5. Brídíní Óga’s Torie Edgar smiles with the day’s big prize. Photo: ©INPHO/Leah Scholes

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Brídíní Óga’s Torie Edgar lead the celebrations after her team won last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, defeating a gallant St Dominic’s of Knockcroghery and Roscommon. Photo: ©INPHO/Leah Scholes

‘This will hurt… we could be going down the road with the All-Ireland title’ < SEAMUS DUKE

It was an emotional and bitterly disappointed St Dominic’s manager John Haughey who spoke to the local media after the heartbreaking loss to Na Brídíní Óga on Saturday. He didn’t have to be told that his side had enough possession in the second half to have won the match.

“We will have to live with that, but

we’ll have to dust ourselves down and try and see what we can do. We had enough possession, but they’re a good, strong, physical side. We found it hard to get frees there today but our girls dug deep, and you can’t ask for much more.

The panel have been outstanding all year. This will hurt because we know that we could be going down the road with the All-Ireland title.”

John said that the performance of his

team showed that they were well able to compete at a very high level.

“It is a comfort to know that we can compete at this level. We belong here.

We beat St Peter’s by 15 points in an AllIreland semi-final. Then we came here, and there are one or two frees, or one or two mistakes, that swings the game one way or the other.

“That’s sport… this is an All-Ireland final. Mistakes are going to happen.

The girls showed tremendous character in the second half to dig deep and keep going, and get it back to within a puck of the ball for much of the half. I couldn’t speak highly enough of the girls, they’re just outstanding.”

The manager says that he has no doubt that his side will be back again.

“They will be back. They love their camogie. They love that bit of toughness. Some of them will go back

Action from last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, played at Donaghmore/ Ashbourne GAA Club. Na Brídíní Óga of Antrim defeated St Dominic’s of Roscommon by 1-8 to 1-5. Brídíní Óga’s Erin Coulter tackles Kaitlin Egan of St Dominic’s. Photo: ©INPHO/ Leah Scholes

Action from last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Junior A Club Camogie Championship Final, played at Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA Club, Meath. Na Brídíní Óga of Antrim defeated St Dominic’s of Roscommon by 1-8 to 1-5. Lilly Murray (St Dominic’s) in action. Photo: ©INPHO/Leah Scholes

to their colleges, others will go back to the county.

“At the moment, it seems as if we’re as far away as we ever were (from an All-Ireland title) but we’ll gather ourselves next year and see where we go. We know that we can compete and that’s a good starting point. Look, today will be a sore point over the Christmas, but I’ve no doubt about the character and resilience of these girls” he concluded.

48

Roscommon People Friday 19 December 2025

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