‘The Grinch’ gift-wraps ‘Cindy Lou’ at the launch of the Roscommon Christmas Festival and Enchanted Christmas Trail 2026. (Characters played by Anne-Marie O’Sullivan, Caoimhe Murray and Damien Loughnane). Photo: Brian Farrell
Car Accident Injury
I was injured in a car accident recently, but I am nervous about bringing a claim as I do not know what to do. Please explain the procedure to me. Claims involving personal injuries can be a lengthy but not necessarily complicated procedure. A good Solicitor will guide you through the process and help you secure appropriate compensation.
Your solicitor will require details of all your injuries and symptoms (physical, psychological or emotional). Medical reports from your GP, medical consultants etc. will form an essential component in determining the extent and implications of your injuries.
All out of pocket expenses must be calculated including loss of earnings if you were out of work as a result of your injuries, medical expenses, travelling expenses etc.
It is not enough to show that you were involved in an accident or to have suffered injury in order to obtain compensation. You must demonstrate that the party or parties you are suing were to blame for the accident and the injuries that you have suffered.
Under the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act anyone seeking compensation for a personal injury must make an application to a body called The Injuries Resolution Board before legal proceedings may be issued. However, the alleged negligent party must agree to have the matter assessed before The Injuries Resolution Board.
The Injuries Resolution Board does not determine liability (who is at fault) and will not make any finding regarding fault or negligence. Its role is limited to valuing claims and making awards. If the award is rejected by either party, then the injured party may issue legal proceedings in the usual manner. Your Solicitor will expertly guide you through the process.
Singer-songwriter Mickey Joe Harte joined members of the Roscommon Town Team, Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr John Keogh, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan, Tourism Officer Lisa Joy, and sisters Ella and Grace McGarry for the launch of the Roscommon Christmas Festival and Enchanted Christmas Trail 2025. Roscommon Christmas Festival returns with festive magic, music and community spirit on December 6th and 7th, featuring bustling markets, lights, illuminations, live music performances, street theatre and more.
Photo: Brian Farrell
Singer-songwriter Mickey Joe Harte joins Caoimhe Murray playing Cindy Lou (from ‘The Grinch’) and sisters Ella and Grace McGarry and Eamonn Gleeson at the launch of the Roscommon Christmas Festival and Enchanted Christmas Trail 2025. Photo: Brian Farrell
Singer-songwriter Mickey Joe Harte joins Anne-Marie O’Sullivan, Damien Loughnane and Caoimhe Murray playing characters from ‘The Grinch’ at the launch of the Roscommon Christmas Festival and Enchanted Christmas Trail 2025. Photo: Brian Farrell
Christmas sale in Athleague
A Christmas sale is set to take place from 10 am to 3 pm on Sunday, November 23rd, at the Athleague Community Centre. The sale is being held in aid of TNR Roscommon, who help homeless cats in the area. There will be lots of greats items for sale, including bags, shoes, household goods, toys, jewellery, beauty sets, free refreshments, and more! There will also be some exciting raffle prizes up for grabs. Please come along on the day to show your support and buy some great items.
Western Alzheimer’s coffee morning
Western Alzheimer’s Voluntary Committee would like to remind everybody that their annual coffee morning will take place at Roscommon Golf Club on Friday, November 28th, and are encouraging as many as possible to attend and support. The coffee morning kicks off at 10 am and runs until 1 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to support a very worthy cause and to meet friends and neighbours again in advance of the Christmas season.
This year, the committee are delighted to announce that Dr Martin Daly TD will launch the annual St Stephen’s Day Charity Walk at 12 noon on the day. All proceeds of both the coffee morning and the Stephen’s Day Walk will contribute to the funding of the new proposed Daycare Centre in Hawthorne Drive. The committee are looking forward to seeing everybody there!
Launch of ‘Roscommon’s Forgotten Heroes’
Local military enthusiast and historian Danny Tiernan has just published a book listing the Roscommon men who fought and died during World War.
The book contains a list of over 550 people killed from all over the county of Roscommon. The book tells stories of people who volunteered at home to help the soldiers at the frontline.
The book will be launched on Saturday, November 29th at 2 pm in the Una Bhan craft and gift shop in the grounds of King House, Boyle, Co Roscommon.
Mullooly wants Mercosur court opinion
Midlands-North-West
MEP Ciaran Mullooly has accused European Parliament services of imposing “a political blockage dressed up as procedure” after they refused to allow the tabling of a crossparty motion requesting an opinion from the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) on the legality of the EU-Mercosur trade agreements.
“This is an outrageous move by the Parliament management to effectively gag over 145 MEPs who are quite entitled to seek a vote on this issue under the existing Parliament rules next week in Strasbourg,” Mullooly said.
“I will fight this all the
way. If this is the type of move that faceless European officials want to take against Irish farmers, denying us our rights, then we will fight it all the way and we will win. But this is about more than agriculture. It is about the European Parliament’s right to ask the Court of Justice for a legal ruling before any final vote. Blocking that right undermines the Parliament itself.”
The proposed motion, supported by MEPs from several political groups, seeks a CJEU opinion on whether the Commission’s decision to split the Mercosur package into a mixed Partnership Agreement and an EU-only Interim Trade Agreement
complies with the EU Treaties.
“Parliament’s rules are clear: we may seek a court opinion any time before Parliament votes,” Mullooly stated.
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has criticised Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and Governmentsupporting Independents for declining to state opposition to the Mercosur agreement during a Dáil debate on a Sinn Féin motion calling for Ireland to reject the deal.
“The Mercosur trade agreement is a bad deal for Irish agriculture, it’s a bad deal for Irish and EU consumers and it’s a bad deal for the environment,” she said.
Roscommon SPCA Church gate collections
The Roscommon society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (SPCA) will be holding Church gate collections at the following churches this weekend.
Collections will be held on Saturday, November 22nd, at St Baothin’s Church in Tibohine, and on Sunday, November 23rd, at the Church of The Sacred Heart in Fairymount. Roscommon SPCA is run by a team of dedicated volunteers, with all money donated going directly towards animal welfare in the county. If you would like to learn more about Roscommon SPCA please visit roscommonspca.ie.
Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy
A Special Healing Mass for the Holy Souls will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre in Curraghboy (N37W704) at 8 pm on Friday, November 21st
The celebrant will be Fr John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm, and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Fr John will bless Holy Water and all religious items before Mass. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass.
Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome to attend.
Christmas Carols in St Coman’s Church of Ireland
St Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon, which is celebrating its 250th anniversary, presents Christmas Carols with Athlone Choral Society and special guest Daren Lane, in St Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon on Sunday, November 30th 2025 at 6 pm. Donations at the door. All proceeds in aid of Church Restoration Fund.
Martin Shanagher Audiologist
Claire Shanagher Audiologist
Feighan appointed as Minister of State as Donohoe off to World Bank
Boyle native Frank Feighan has been appointed Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, with special responsibility for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment.
The surprise development follows a quick Cabinet reshuffle necessitated after it was announced on Tuesday that Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe was resigning with immediate effect to take up a new role with the World Bank.
Speaking after his appointment by An Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris, Deputy Feighan said: “I was delighted to meet with An Tánaiste… when he informed me that he proposed to appoint me Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure. I was honoured to accept this important portfolio and return to a Minister of State role within the coalition government.
“I now look forward to driving the Programme for Gov-
ernment under the headings of public procurement, digitalisation and eGovernment.
“I am proud to represent the people of Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal,” Deputy Feighan continued. “I received an enhanced mandate in 2024 to continue to deliver for this region. As a Minister in Government I will continue to highlight the much-needed infrastructural improvements for the North West and hopefully I can do more to deliver those ambitions.”
Commenting on the resignation of Paschal Donohoe TD as Minister for Finance, Deputy Feighan paid tribute: “Paschal Donohoe’s decision leaves a huge void in Fine Gael and in Irish politics. He served with distinction across multiple portfolios and hands over an economy in robust shape. I wish him every success in his new role as Managing Director of the World Bank.”
Deputy Feighan previously served as Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy from 2020 to 2022.
Every time you choose public transport, you’re playing your part in reducing Ireland’s transport emissions.
Since 2022, the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan has introduced over 180 new or enhanced bus routes across the TFI Network.
8 million journeys were made along these routes last year, connecting towns and villages near you and supporting communities around Ireland to make sustainable choices. It all adds up.
Wherever you’re going, your journey counts.
Samaritan Christmas Concert in Athlone
The 35th annual Samaritan Christmas Concert takes place on Thursday, December 11th, at SS Peter and Paul’s Church in Athlone at 8 pm, featuring the Army Band of the 2nd Brigade, Conductor Capt. William Chester, Tenor Paul Linehan, Athlone A Cappella Choir, Athlone Pipe Band, and Compere Joe McCarrick.
Tickets cost €20 and can be purchased
from Mulligan’s on Roscommon Road, Cunningham’s on Dublin Road and in Monskland, Whyte’s Pharmacy in Arcadia, and Athlone Printing on St Mary’s Street.
The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on freecall at 116 123 for anyone who is lonely, troubled, or just needs to talk to someone in confidence.
Frank Feighan has been appointed Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform
FRIDAY
On Knock Airport…
“Did a priest build Knock Airport?” one of our children asked as we began a weekend trip to Liverpool today.
A Monsignor, we clarified. The billboard on the approach to the airport (now ‘Ireland West’) with the big image of the late (and great) Monsignor James Horan is an evocative, enduring reminder of the man’s vision, ambition, and determination.
I was reminded of attending a musical on the ‘Miracle of Knock’ some years ago in the TF Royal in Castlebar. ‘On a Wing and a Prayer’ was a very entertaining show. There were up to 1,500 people in the auditorium the night we attended (the proceeds were going to charity).
While ‘Monsignor Horan’ and ‘Charlie Haughey’ got big cheers when they came on stage, a special Mayo hurrah was reserved for local ‘favourite’ Pee Flynn (played with gusto and flair by Frank Forde).
One of the biggest smiles of approval was on the face of the man sitting to our left, directly beside me. Yes, of the 1,500 in attendance, I’d ended up sitting next to the ‘real’ Pee Flynn himself!
LATER ON FRIDAY
Back to The Cavern
We arrived in Liverpool John Lennon Airport at around 2 pm, checked into our accommodation, and ventured out later this evening.
Despite a three-hour flight delay, it hadn’t really been a hard day’s night, but we ended up revisiting The Cavern Club, this time to show it off to our children. The Beatles played there almost 300 times. There were a couple of great bands performing live tonight. What a place… every downward step into ‘The Cavern’ a step into history.
SATURDAY
Fawlty Towers: The Play The highlight of our weekend, well, at least until The Miracle of Budapest… was attending ‘Fawlty Towers: The
PAUL HEALY’S WEEK
A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie
Play’. This trip was a birthday present for yours truly, and the entire family made the journey. (It hasn’t escaped their notice over the years that I am arguably Ireland’s No 1 Fawlty Towers fan).
Adapted by John Cleese (who cowrote the TV series with Connie Booth), the stage version of the classic sitcom was first performed in Australia a few years ago, making its UK premiere in 2024. As regular readers may know, I’ve hailed Cleese as a comedy genius since his trailblazing (‘This is an ex-parrot’) days with the Monty Python team.
The impressive Liverpool Empire Theatre is one hundred years old this year (Fawlty Towers itself arrived 50 years ago).
We didn’t know quite what to expect of Fawlty Towers: The Play The first thing one notices is the extraordinary set design. Here in front of us, with remarkable likeness to the TV series, is the famous hotel reception, dining room, and even a bedroom, the latter perched above the main set entirely to facilitate a wonderful exchange between ‘Basil’ and the impossibly difficult and hard-of-hearing Mrs Richards (“This is Torquay” an exasperated
Basil says to his demanding guest, “… may I ask what you expected to see out of a Torquay hotel bedroom window?
Sydney Opera House, perhaps? The Hanging Gardens of Babylon? Herds of wildebeests sweeping majestically across the plain?”.
Cleese merged three episodes together for this play – The Hotel Inspectors, Communication Problems, and The Germans
The theatre was packed with people ‘of a certain age’, most there for nostalgic reasons, I guess. After all, a lot of us knew the script and the slapstick very well indeed. The two biggest cheers of the night were for Manuel’s “I know nothing… I am from Barcelona” and Basil’s priceless response when a German guest asks him to stop talking about the war.
Basil: “You started it!” German guest: “We did NOT start it!” (meaning the mentions of the war).
Basil: “Yes you did! You invaded Poland!”
Whatever occasional lulls there were in the preceding 90 minutes, the finale was simply wonderful, the whole production a thoroughly entertaining trip
down memory lane.
The performances by the cast were magnificent. Danny Bayne stole the show as an uncannily brilliant Basil, but Mia Austen as Sybil, Hemi Veroham as audience favourite Manuel, sitcom stalwart Paul Nicholas as ‘The Major’, Greg Haste as obnoxious spoons salesman Mr Hutchinson, Jemma Churchill as Mrs Richards, and Joanne Clifton as Polly, were all superb (the supporting cast also excelled).
Me? I was in my element. And I never mentioned the war.
SUNDAY
That sporting moment
After two morning ‘hop-on hop-off’ bus tours – one of Liverpool’s general attractions, the second specifically a Beatles-themed tour – we found an Irish pub for the Hungary-Republic of Ireland game, joining the action a half hour in.
Utter joyous chaos erupts as that moment comes. Kelleher’s precise lob forward, a perfectly judged header by Scales, then time seems to briefly stop as an emerging national hero writes another unlikely chapter in
his fairytale week.
Balance, timing, intelligence, athleticism, instinct, all combine… and some timeless beauty is born. The pub erupted! Irish and English alike.
We will all remember where we were when it happened… always.
MONDAY
Back home…
Back to the wonderful Knock Airport, after a very enjoyable break in Liverpool. It’s not quite where everyone knows your name, but it’s pretty much where everyone loves the Irish.
TUESDAY
Paschal’s new job
According to reports, Paschal Donohoe will be paid an annual €600k or more – tax-free – in his new job at the World Bank. Nice work if you can get it. The tax-free bit, I don’t quite understand!
Meanwhile, the sudden resignation of the Minister for Finance has had an interesting ripple effect locally, with Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan (from Boyle) promoted to the junior ministerial ranks in the reshuffle necessitated by Donohoe’s exit. What happens at the World Bank can affect Boyle!
LATER ON TUESDAY
Great Scots
The Scots have almost stolen our thunder! I got in from a late evening at work to discover that Scotland’s World Cup qualifier with Denmark was tied at 2-2 with four minutes to go.
Confident that after Troy Parrott’s heroics on Sunday a second helping of late drama was unlikely, I went to make a cup of tea.
On my return, Scotland had scored twice and were into the World Cup for the first time in 28 years. I may have missed it, but what a magical night!
Also, Wales hammered North Macedonia 7-1, and are into the playoffs. Congratulations to our Celtic cousins.
The Runaway Poets –free poetry event in Boyle
The Runaway Poets – a band of Scottish poets who run away to Ireland regularly to tour the country with Jessamine O’Connor – are set to visit Boyle later this month.
This November, the roaming poets are Charlie Gracie and Martin Goldie. Charlie’s books include ‘Belfast to Ballieston’, and ‘Tales from the Dartry Mountains’, as well as a novel, ‘To Live With What You Are’.
Jessamine O’Connor’s most recent publications are ‘The Opposite of Grieving’, and ‘Silver Spoon’, published by Salmon Poetry. Her debut novel ‘Somewhere’ is out with Lilliput Press in May 2026.
The three writers will be at the New Art Gallery in Boyle at 6 pm on Friday, November 28th – sharing poetry, signing books, and having chats. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free and refreshments will be provided.
Martin came to poetry recently but already has one collection, ‘A Kist of Treasure: John MacLean’, and a new collection coming in 2026 with Drunk Muse Press.
Pictured at the Public Art launch of ‘The Mosaic Laneway’ in Roscommon Town is Liam Stephens and his father, Paraic (who worked with Irish Mosaics). Photo: Brian Farrell
PPN to host Major County Community Networking Event in Abbey Hotel
Roscommon Public Participation Network (PPN), the primary link between Roscommon County Council and local communities, will host its County Plenary Meeting and Community Networking Event on Wednesday, November 26th, from 7–9pm at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town.
The PPN plays a vital role in empowering community groups to engage in local decision-making, access Local Authority funding, and strengthen their capacity through tailored initiatives. This upcoming event offers both new and existing member groups an opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping the future of community engagement and local development in Roscommon.
In addition to the customary plenary proceedings, the event will feature a distinguished line-up of speakers. A keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Maura Farrell, lecturer at the University of Galway in Rural Development, Agriculture, and Geography. Her presentation will explore the social, cultural, and economic changes shaping rural communities.
The evening will also mark the official launch of the PPN Strategic Plan 2025–2030, setting out the network’s vision for the years ahead. A roundtable discussion with community groups will be facilitated to help shape the PPN’s workplan and actions for 2026.
Attendees can expect updates on the latest local funding opportunities, as well as the formal ratification of community representatives to Roscommon County Council Policy Committees.
The theme of this year’s event is “Together for Sustainable, Inclusive and Informed Communities.” The focus is on equipping community groups with knowledge of available supports, building stronger capacities and encouraging strategic thinking for long-term sustainability.
The evening will conclude with a Networking Showcase, featuring information stands from a wide range of local supports and agencies, including Roscommon County Council, Roscommon
LEADER Partnership, Roscommon Sports Partnership, Community Finance Providers, An Garda Síochána, and many more.
This free event provides a valuable platform for community groups to network, share information, and strengthen collaboration. Refreshments will be served, and all potential new members are warmly encouraged to attend.
Please note that registration in advance of the event is essential. You can register for the event online via Eventbrite (https://tinyurl.com/yc7ux33j ) via email info@roscommonppn.ie or by calling the PPN Team on 0860478616.
newsbriefs
AGM of Ballymoe Development
The AGM of Ballymoe Development will be held at 8 pm on Thursday, November 27th, in the Fr Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe. All people from within the community of Ballymoe are invited to attend.
Bridge club results
The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows:
Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Kitty Blighe & Mary McDermott; 2nd: Margaret Egan & Veronica McManus; Gross: Tresina & Tommie Murphy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Chris & John McGrath; 2nd: Mary McDermott & Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; Gross: Tresina Murphy & Larry Shine.
Ballymurry Bridge Club – (Harvest Competition). 1st: Marie McSharry & Paraic Brennan; 2nd: Kitty Blighe & Fiona Neilan; Gross: Mary Law & Susan Farrell; 3rd: Kitty Gately & Mary Naughton.
Kilbride Bridge Club – (North/South). 1st: Jane Hunt & Gertie McDermott; 2nd: Sheila Macken & Margaret Scott. (East/West). 1st: Bernie Fallon & Phil MurrayO’Brien; 2nd: Mary Kelly & Kitty Burke. (4th November, ‘25 – North/South). 1st: Annette Gaffney & Gertie McDermott; 2nd: Martina Fallon & Margaret Scott. (4th November, ‘25 – East/West). 1st: Margaret Mullen & Pauline Leonard; 2nd: Frances Keane & Jane Hunt.
Celebrating the Feast of Christ the King
To coincide with the Eucharistic Procession in Derry City on Sunday, November 23rd there will be a celebration of the Feast of Christ The King in Roscommon Town on that day. Venue is the ‘Tesco carpark’ and the celebration will begin at 1 pm and continue until 1.30 pm. All faiths/all beliefs welcome. Saint Patrick’s Choir will be present.
Roscommon Garden Club annual Charity Gala Night
The Roscommon Garden Club is holding its annual Charity Gala Night in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Thursday, December 4th 2025 at 8 pm. Anya O’Dwyer will give a Christmas Flower/Wreath demonstration on the night. Wine and finger food will be served. Tickets are €25 each and can be purchased from the Abbey Hotel and McGuinness’ totalhealth Pharmacy, Roscommon.
Loughglynn Senior Citizens Annual Christmas Party
The Loughglynn Senior Citizens Annual Christmas Party will take place in Creaton’s Lounge in Loughglynn at 2 pm on Sunday, December 7th. The committee extends a warm invitation to all senior citizens to attend.
A hot meal will be served, followed by live music, dance, and entertainment.
Please leave your name with Katie in Creaton’s or Tina in the Village Inn if you can join us for the party. Alternatively, you can contact Mamie on 087 7857285.
Lights saga: Council puts spotlight on ESB
Concerned residents of busy estates in the general Lanesboro Road vicinity in Roscommon Town have expressed frustration that an assurance from Roscommon County Council on restoration of street lighting has not been delivered on. However, the Council has moved to clarify that the physical repair work is complete – adding that it’s up to the ESB to now activate the lighting.
In late September Roscommon County Council said the repair works had commenced and “should be finished in the coming days”.
But two months on, residents say the lights still aren’t working and they have reiterated their concern for the safety of pedestrians and motorists.
In a statement to the Roscommon People this week, the Council said the physical repairs works had indeed been completed by early October, with the subsequent delay since then now the responsibility of the ESB.
The affected area is the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon where street lighting has been out of order since a vehicle struck a lamp post last January.
Residents from Cluain Fraoigh, Greenfield and other housing estates – and residents of Creevy Road – have spent months raising alarm over the situation, warning of growing risks for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers – especially at the busy Creevy Road junction.
Residents raised the matter with the Roscommon People in mid-September, claiming at the time that the Council had assured them the issue would be resolved by September 1st.
Contacted by this newspaper at the time, Ro-
scommon County Council said the works had commenced at the end of September and would be completed within days.
This week, the residents have highlighted the fact that two months on, the lights are still not working. A resident said: “Matters are compounded by (recent) road closures on the Creevy Road. It is dangerous now from 5 pm onwards for pedestrians in particular but for all road users too. Pedestrians crossing at the junction of the Lanesboro Road and Creevy Road are taking their lives in their own hands. The lights out now since early this year. It’s a disgrace… it needs to be resolved urgently in the interest of road safety.”
In a new statement to the Roscommon People this week, the Council said: “The public lights along Lanesboro Road were damaged earlier this year due to an impact from a passing HGV.”
The Council went on to say that the resulting repair works required significant electrical upgrades in order to ensure compliance with the updated ESB Networks National Code of Practice (Version 5, April 2021), which was enforced nationwide after a public-lighting safety stand-down in February 2023.
“Roscommon County Council, supported by our public lighting maintenance contractor, completed the works required in early October 2025.
“What remains is for the new lights to be energised by the ESB. Roscommon County Council has made all the necessary applications to the ESB to facilitate this. The timeline for outstanding works (i.e. energisation) is a matter for ESB Networks.”
‘Cut From The Same Cloth’ was launched in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, November 14th and runs until December 20th. Pictured are Ursula Ledwith (left) of RosFM (who officially opening the exhibition) and textile artist Frances Crowe. Photo: Brian Farrell
Roscommon Christmas Lights switching-on ceremony this Sunday at 5 pm
Everyone’s invited!
Roscommon Christmas Lights switching-on ceremony this Sunday
Join the people of Roscommon as dusk falls on Sunday, November 23rd, when at 5 pm, Santa and his helpers will switch on the lights at a public ceremony to which all are welcome.
It is the traditional start of the festive season in Roscommon and a wonderful community event, as the twinkling lights are switched on and transform the town core. Everyone in the family enjoys a feelgood, traditional Christmas ritual and the Christmas Lights Committee invite everyone to come along and enjoy the experience. It is all about making memories. You can also listen to the switch-on live on rosfm.ie/ live/.
This year, the Roscommon Lights Committee are celebrating its 32nd year erecting and maintaining the Christmas lights for the town. The committee are proud that the county town is renowned for an amazing festive display of Christmas lights that would not look out of place in any major city. This is only possible because of the dedicated volunteers who make it all happen. The joy and cheer the Christmas lights bring to all, both adults and children, cannot be underestimated and it truly transforms the town for the festive season.
This year, Roscommon will have a fabulous 11-metrehigh eco-friendly Christmas tree with a green garland effect and warm white LED lights. This is a natural progression of the eco-friendly plan that began two years ago to reduce energy costs by retrofitting the lighting system, bringing it up to NEC standards by replacing old wiring, junction boxes, column motifs, curtain lights and features. It is going to be a wonderful festive focal point for the town this Christmas. This is yet another strong and positive message to send out about our town. The festive display is expected to draw shoppers in from a wide hinterland to enjoy the yuletide atmosphere. However, between upgrades to the lights, new features, and ongoing repair, it still costs a lot to put the Christmas lights in place for the season.
The committee are asking as many ‘Rossies’ as possible to make a small contribution for the greater good of our town and county. It is easy to do for anyone, anywhere in the world, who wants to share a little goodwill this Christmas. Every donation, no matter how small, helps. Please rise to the challenge and donate today on idonate.ie/fundraiser/RoscommonChristmasLights2025
“This is a really rewarding committee to be involved with,” said Gerry Dervin, Chairperson of the Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee. “We have a great bunch of people and their enthusiasm is infectious. We are always looking for new members and volunteers to get involved so please get in contact if you would like to help.”
The Roscommon Christmas Lights Committee would like to wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas.
Tricia Henriques pictured preparing the fabulous crochet Christmas tree in Roscommon Town square ahead of the annual turning on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon this Sunday. Photo: Michael Finan
Obituary: The late Peter (Pete) Kenny
Pete Kenny was a man who touched every life he met – with kindness, generosity, and that familiar smile that could brighten anyone’s day.
Born in Derreen in 1937 to John and Nora Kenny, Pete was the second youngest of three boys. When his father passed away in 1954, Pete was only 16. Times were hard, but Pete stayed to work the family farm and care for his mother. The neighbours in Derreen were always there to lend a hand with turf, harvest, or the killing of the pig, and Pete never forgot that sense of community.
It was a value he carried throughout his life – always helping others, quietly and faithfully.
Pete often said that the best day of his life was the day he met Maureen, the love of his life. “I won the lotto,” he’d say. The two were married for 53 years and together raised six children
Yvonne Meares, Cait
Kenny Finneran, Linda Gacquin, Marie Kenny Dolan, Martin, and James – and were blessed with ten grandchildren. He often said he was just as lucky with his parents-inlaw, Malachy and Nonie Grehan, who treated him like their own son.
Although the Kenny boys had no sisters, Pete would smile and say that when Maureen arrived, the brothers gained a sister with Maureen, and he gained sisters in Kay, Martina, Vera and Maura.
Pete began working alongside Maureen in their shop in 1983, and together they became a cornerstone of the Ballyforan community.
An early riser, Pete was out to the shop each morning, shutters up by 7 am, ready to greet every customer with his warm welcome, a chat, and that unmistakable smile.
He had great faith and a deep connection to the church where he was baptised as Peter Joseph in
1937. He attended Mass faithfully every weekend and loved to help with renovations or usher when crowds gathered.
For years, he provided what he jokingly called a “taxi service” to Mass for his “golden ladies” – sometimes in two rounds, because they’d argue over who got the front seat!
Pete was a lifelong member of the Pioneer Association, promoting moderation and temper-
ance by quiet example. He also gave endlessly to the local and wider community – serving on many committees, working tirelessly for the Tidy Towns, and helping make Ballyforan a better place to live, work, and visit.
At home, Pete was a devoted husband and a calm, gentle father – the kind who never raised his voice, even as footballs, sliotars, and golf balls found their way through the windows, or as cars mysteriously gained ‘black eyes’. His patience and good humour never wavered.
Pete loved farming, and even after years in the shop, the land remained close to his heart. He could fix anything with a piece of twine, and the fields of Derreen, Ffrenches and Flynns brought him peace. He took joy in simple things – turning the hay, bringing home the turf, and seeing his grandchildren grow.
He was known for his sayings, each one delivered with that twinkle in his eye:
“Hup hup.”
“Well, well, how do?”
“Don’t be talking.”
“Yes siree.”
And his favourite – “Suffering ducks!”
Though a Galway man at heart, Pete proudly adapted to supporting Roscommon when his children and grandchildren donned the blue and yellow jerseys.
To those who knew him, Pete was the very definition of a true gentleman – humble, faith-filled, and endlessly kind. He lived a life of service, laughter, and love, giving far more than he ever received.
Pete was truly unique – there’ll never be another quite like him.
May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace.
*Peter (Pete) Kenny, Derreen, Ballyforan. Born August 20th 1937. Died October 27th 2025.
The late Peter (Pete) Kenny
‘The Grinch’ stole singer-songwriter Mickey Joe Harte’s guitar at the launch of the Roscommon Christmas Festival and Enchanted Christmas Trail 2025 (but later returned it!). Also pictured are Shane Tiernan (Roscommon County Council CE), Cllr John Keogh (Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), AnneMarie O’Sullivan of Enchanted Croi Theatre, Caoimhe Murray and Ella and Grace McGarry. Photo: Brian Farrell
FRANK BRANDON
FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...
Stormy start, sporting finish
Our columnist Frank Brandon discusses his recent journey to Dublin to attend Sporting Club Ireland’s inaugural event, reflects on a hugely exciting weekend for Irish sport, local events, and more
It’s Wednesday of last week and I am due to catch the mid-afternoon train to Dublin, but (unusually for Irish Rail) it’s behind time, and ends up being more than half an hour late by the time it arrives in Roscommon.
Now I am always telling you of my very pleasant journeys by train to Dublin, and once again from the time we got on it was most enjoyable. However, having to wait outside in the cold and wet for so long meant we were all pretty well frozen by the time the train arrived. Maybe Irish Rail could erect some sort of sign to keep passengers informed as to how the service is running.
We eventually got to Heuston, but as luck would have it, Wednesday evening was one of torrential rain in the city, and when I got off the train there wasn’t a taxi to be had.
I took the Luas to close to the city centre, and from there I set off on foot to try to find my ‘good value’ hotel. Despite having got directions from my son Mark, I managed to get totally lost, and it took me ages to find it, by which time I was like a drowned rat. I could only wonder what the receptionist thought of the apparition that appeared before her!
Anyway, after the obligatory shower, I got myself dolled up and ready for the night. As the rain was still pelting down, I asked the receptionist could she get a taxi for me, and while I was waiting I overheard a couple complaining about the ants in their bed. As I said, my hotel was good value, so I wasn’t expecting it to be the Hilton… but thankfully the ants hadn’t got into mine.
After a little while my taxi arrived, and in the torrential rain we set off to Makenzie’s Restaurant on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay. My driver was a ‘true blue’ Dub and a lovely fellow, but he hadn’t a clue where Mackenzie’s was, so we did a tour of the south city before we found it.
Nevertheless, just after seven o’clock I arrived into the first event that Sporting Club Ireland, the brainchild of my son Mark and his wife Aoife, were hosting. As I walked in the door I could hear the buzz that was in the room, where a big number of people had gathered for a few drinks, dinner, and an evening with the legendary Northern Irish football figure Martin O’Neill.
I suppose the fact that he had recently been brought back as the interim manager of Celtic Football Club would have helped with his current popularity, and we were all delighted to line up and have our photos taken with Martin.
After those formalities we all sat down to dinner, and remarkably, I found myself sitting beside O’Neill! The truth is he was just so natural and so easy to talk to. At no stage would you think he was such a giant in the footballing world, having won two European cups and a First Division title with Nottingham Forest as a player, and seven titles with Celtic along with two league cups with Leicester City as manager.
As manager of the Republic of Ireland, he brought us to the European Championship finals in 2016, while he played 64 times for Northern Ireland and captained them to a famous World Cup victory over Spain in 1982. That is a game I will never forget as it took place the evening before my brother, The Rasher (Declan), got married, and we watched it in a pub somewhere in west Cork.
After a couple of minutes you would swear I knew him all my life, and we had a great chat over the lovely three-course dinner (though I suppose I had a fourth course as I managed to get a second dessert).
However, when the special guest took to the stage to be interviewed for about 40 minutes, he surprised me even further, because he was the most entertaining interviewee ever, with some hilarious stories about his footballing life, mixed in with some serious reflections on some of the surprise turns his life had taken. The MC on the night was Ian Stafford, the man who originated the Sporting Club concept in England, and who now oversees its development all over the UK and Ireland. Before Martin took the stage, Ian had a few words with the former Kerry footballer turned fashion guru Paul Galvin, as well as with the ex-Ireland rugby international Dave Kilcoyne, both of whom also went down well with the very appreciative audience.
Green, white, and goals
For anyone with any interest in sport, the few days gone by have to be among the most dramatic that we have ever experienced.
There was the amazing night at the Aviva on Thursday when our soccer team beat the superstars of Portugal, followed by an even more amazing last-second win away to Hungary in Budapest on Sunday.
In all my years following the Republic’s footballers, the last-minute heartbreaking defeats far outweigh the victories, so to score two goals in the last ten or twelve minutes against the Hungarians to keep our World Cup qualification dreams alive was just unbelievable. That goal in the last seconds to win the game will be shown on Irish TV for ever more.
We all knew a bit about Troy Parrott before this, but his five goals in the two games – two against Portugal and three against Hungary – will ensure that his status as an Irish legend will forever be enshrined. His name alone is a gift for all budding headline writers, and of course you will see and hear that ‘Hungary are sick as a parrot’ line many times – but my personal favourite came from The Mail on Monday, who called it ‘The Late Late Troy Show’!
What a difference a few days make. Before Thursday hardly anyone believed we could still make the play-offs. Today we are in them and anything is possible.
Then in the rugby we had a hat-trick hero when the returning Mack Hansen scored three tries in the impressive defeat of Australia. As with Parrott, Hansen has the x-factor, and with both of them in top form we have exciting times ahead!
On the local front, our Creggs rugby team went to Limerick on Saturday to play St Mary’s in the quarter-final of the All-Ireland junior cup, and came away with a hugely impressive win on a scoreline of 60 points to 28. Sadly I couldn’t be there, but by all accounts it was a terrific performance against a highly-rated St Mary’s outfit. After a stuttering start to the season, maybe we are finally ready to rock!
Tyrone footballer Conor Meyler, ex-international rugby player Mike Ross, and former British and Irish Lion Paul Wallace were other well-known sporting personalities in attendance, and overall it turned out to be a superb evening’s entertainment.
Martin O’Neill was a huge hit with us all, and everyone who was there really enjoyed it. For Mark and Aoife, it was a great success. The next big Sporting Club event is with Johnny Sexton on January 15th, and I am already looking forward to that one. I might not be lucky enough to get sitting next to Johnny, but you never know! That event is also in Dublin, so I must find out what room the ants were in before I rebook the same hotel…
Anyway, some time around midnight, everything wound down, and as I reflect on it now a few days later, I can only say it was one of the great nights. I really had great craic at the table with both O’Neill and Dave Kilcoyne, so roll on January 15th!
Christmas coming early to Kilbegnet
Onto local matters: Mary Kelly tells me that the senior citizens’ Christmas Party is taking place in Kilbegnet Hall on Sunday, December 7th at 2 pm. People who wish to attend are asked to put their names on lists that are left in both parish churches, as well as in Roarke’s and Dowd’s shops. The organisers need numbers for the caterers so put your names down as soon as possible.
Carol singing will kick it all off at 2 pm, followed by the meal and music with Joachim and friends. There will be a raffle on the day for two hampers and several other prizes.
Also, the local rural development group are having a big draw for a €500 voucher for Sweeney Oil, a couple of cash prizes, and a €60 voucher for O’Roarke’s Spar! Tickets are only €5 (or five for €20), and the draw takes place on December 5th.
You can buy tickets in O’Roarke’s, and by doing so you will be supporting your own local community. Also, the DVDs and USB sticks of the Martin Logan shows from Creggs are now on sale and they will make lovely Christmas presents for anyone with local connections.
And finally…
As the country basked in the elation of the footballers’ surge in form, reality hit with the horrific car crash in Louth on Saturday night which claimed the lives of five young people.
The devastation that such a tragedy has caused is almost impossible to comprehend.
So many families, along with their neighbours and friends,
will have had their lives torn apart in a matter of seconds. Nothing anyone can say will do anything to ease the pain, so all we can do is keep the victims and their families in our prayers.
There are still three people in hospital, and they too need all the help, support, and prayers they can get. It seems that in life tragedy and triumph are never too far apart.
‘Til next week, bye for now
Our columnist Frank pictured with Guest of Honour Martin O’Neill at last week’s event (see column).
Pictured at the launch of ‘Sculpture on the Square’ and ‘The Mosaic Laneway’ last Saturday were Deputy Martin Daly and Cllr Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. Photo: Brian Farrell
MOLLOY’S
Girl Guides to host event in Lanesboro for Oíche na hÓige
Christmas Fair in Granlahan
Cill Tulach ICA are hosting a Christmas Fair in Granlahan Community Centre (F45 T285) on Sunday, November 30th, starting at 11.30 am.
There will be craft and plant stalls, tombola, a cake sale and a variety of raffle prizes including food, drink,
Schools receive funding for climate action works
Schools in Roscommon will benefit from funding as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme, Fine Gael Senator Gareth Scahill has said.
As part of Oíche na hÓige 2025 – a new national celebration of youth work and young people taking place across Ireland – members of Irish Girl Guides units will be in St Mary’s Hall, Lanesboro, from 5.30 pm to 8 pm on this Friday, November 21st. The evening will feature activities led by young people, supported by their Leaders, showcasing the fun of Girl Guides meetings. Leaders will be available to share information about Irish Girl Guides, how to join a unit, and become a volunteer. For more information, contact Mary Lillis on 087 9625890 or Francesca Pawelczyk on 0878373162, or email WCMRDO@irishgirlguides. ie.
and children’s hampers, and a beautiful king-size patchwork quilt made by a group of the ICA ladies. Refreshments will be served on the day.
Senator Scahill said: “I’m delighted to see funding for schools in Roscommon as part of the rollout of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.
“This scheme has allowed schools to undertake measures such as insulation upgrades, LED lighting installation, EV charger provision, bike-rack
facilities to support active travel and other climate-focused works alongside traditional maintenance.
“In particular, I’m delighted to see funding for Fairymount NS, St Mary’s Primary, S N Baile Ui Fhidhne, St Cóman’s Wood Primary School, CBS Roscommon, St Nathy’s College, and Roscommon Community College. I know the entire school community will benefit from this funding. Across the country, 297 projects have been approved, with €30m of total fund-
ing ring-fenced for refurbishment of science labs.This scheme has really prioritised investment in science laboratory refurbishment. This will help support the rollout of the new Leaving Certificate curriculum which aims to ensure that students have the skills they need to thrive after they finish school. I want to congratulate all schools in Roscommon that received funding and look forward to seeing the completed works,” concluded Senator Gareth Scahill.
Christmas all wrapped up at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon
festive menu for all our customers and guests, with tasty festive offerings and mouthwater-
ing Christmas desserts.
We are now taking bookings for pre Christmas lunch and dinner for small and large groups in our award winning restaurant. Our Christmas lunch and dinner menu is available from December 6th right through until 6th January.
“Ladies, you can also enjoy a delightful Festive Afternoon Tea in the cosy setting of our lounge with the welcoming open fires providing the perfect setting to ease yourself into the festive season. It is priced at €30 pp with 24 hour advance booking required," explained
Grealy, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at the Abbey Hotel. Gift Vouchers available to purchase online or from hotel reception. Enquiries to events@ abbeyhotel.ie or Telephone 090 6626240. Follow us on social media for updates.
Geraldine
Celebrating on the occasion of Strokestown’s recent victory in the Roscommon IFC final.
Photo: Michael Finan
ENTERTAINMENT Culture&ARTS
To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
Opening of ‘Cut From The Same Cloth’…
‘Cut From The Same
is an art/science collaboration engaging with women in minority communities. This unique exhibition, funded by Research Ireland, merging art, science, and community was launched in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, November 14th as part of a nationwide tour. It runs until December 20th. The multimedia exhibition is the culmination of a project curated
On Saturday, November 15th, Councillor Liam Callaghan (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and Roscommon Arts Office welcomed the public to the Public Art launch of ‘Sculpture on the Square’ and ‘The Mosaic Laneway’. Pictured are County Council personnel and guests. Photo: Brian Farrell
Pictured at the ‘Held Together’ structure are Kathleen Shanagher (Roscommon Town Team), Cllr Liam Callaghan (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council) and Chris Flynn (Director of Services). Photo: Brian Farrell
On Saturday, November 15th, Councillor Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, and Roscommon Arts Office welcomed the public to the Public Art launch of ‘Sculpture on the Square’ and ‘The Mosaic Laneway’. Picture shows artist Chris Judge with his children Joey and Juno and some of the mosaic work in ‘The Mosaic Laneway’. Photo: Brian Farrell
Pictured are Councillor Liam Callaghan (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council), Arts Officer Rhona McGrath, artist Rhona Byrne (who developed the Living Laneways concept) and Mary Smith, Public Art & Engagement Coordinator (pictured in The Mosaic Laneway). Photo: Brian Farrell
Cloth’
by artist, Lorna Donlon in partnership with women in minority communities across Ireland and biomedical researchers from UCD Conway Institute in University College Dublin (UCD).
Pictured at the launch of ‘Cut From The Same Cloth’ at Roscommon Arts Centre were Catherine Lee (Manager, Roscommon Arts Centre), Prof. Amanda McCann (the UCD Conway Institute), Elaine Quinn (UCD Conway Institute), artist Lorna Donlon and Rhona McGrath (Arts Officer, Roscommon County Council). Photo: Brian Farrell
‘Cut From The Same Cloth’ is an art/science collaboration engaging with women in minority communities. This unique exhibition was launched in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, November 14th and runs until December 20th. Pictured are Majella Flanagan, Anna Doyle, Mary Margaret McDonagh and Maria Amosu, all of whom participated and are pictured with photographs of their fabrics. Photo: Brian Farrell
Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm opens €100,000+ Community Benefit Fund for Applications
November 2025: Sliabh Bawn Power DAC is pleased to announce the opening of the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm 2025 Community Benefit Fund. Community and voluntary groups, non-profit groups, or organisations with a charitable status are encouraged to apply for funding. The fund aims to support local projects that make a positive contribution to communities adjacent to the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm with applications encouraged across six categories including Recreation, Social Sustainability, Culture and Heritage, Environmental Sustainability and Tourism. The application window will remain open until Friday, 30th January 2026.
The Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm is a joint venture between BnM, Coillte and Greencoat Renewables, and the Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund is administered by SECAD Partnership.
Making the announcement on behalf of Sliabh Bawn DAC, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at BnM Alison Tilley outlined: “We are delighted to launch the 2025 Community Benefit Fund for the local community adjacent to the wind farm. Community investment is a central pillar of BnM’s 5GW renewable energy pipeline, which is directly supporting Ireland’s National Development Plan. The fund will support community organisations and locally led projects, enabling them to continue providing valuable services to people in the area. This year the Fund is valued at over €100,000 and is open for applications until the 30th January 2026, but we strongly urge community groups to apply ahead of the deadline where possible. We look forward to continuing to support local organisations and initiatives adjacent to the wind farm”
Elaine Barrett, Community Benefit Fund Coordinator on behalf of SECAD Partnership, stated: “SECAD Partnership as fund administrator, are looking forward to supporting the communities near Sliabh Bawn, for any assistance
they may need with their projects and applications. We look forward to seeing the continued benefit of the Sliabh Bawn Community Benefit Fund to the local communities, ensuring the funding has a positive and lasting impact.”
A portion of this year’s fund value has already been committed to projects in the community through multi annual awards made through previous funding rounds. These projects include: Curraghroe Church Car Park Committee and Ballyfeeney National School. Other projects supported by the 2024 Sliabh Bawn Community Benefit Fund include:
• Kilgefin Womens Group / Shed
• St. Mary’s Primary School Strokestown
• Ballagh National School
• Cloontuskert Development and Tidy Towns Association CLG
• Strokestown GAA Club
• Strokestown International Poetry Festival 2025
Among the groups supported by the overall Community Benefit Fund in the past are local schools, sports clubs, development associations, first responder schemes, community facilities, scout groups, local athletic clubs and community support services and outreach programmes.
Applications will be reviewed, assessed, and scored by both Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm DAC and a local committee consisting of representatives from the communities adjacent to the wind farm.
For further information on the Community Benefit Fund (including fund guidelines) and how to apply for funding, please visit: https:// www.communitybenefitfunds.ie/ sliabhbawn
Should you have any queries please contact SECAD on 021 461 3432 / info@secad.ie. Closing date for receipt of entries to the 2025 Fund is the 30th January 2026.
The 2025 Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (the “Fund”) opened for applications on Tuesday 18h November 2025.
The 2025 Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (the “Fund”) opened for applications on Tuesday 18th November 2025.
The 2025 Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (the “Fund”) opened for applications on Tuesday 18h November 2025.
The Fund is open to community and voluntary groups, not for profit groups and organisations with charitable status. The Fund will prioritise projects and initiatives that will benefit the area surrounding Sliabh Bawn, subject to them meeting the Fund criterion.
The Fund is open to community and voluntary groups, not for profit groups and organisations with charitable status. The Fund will prioritise projects and initiatives that will benefit the area surrounding Sliabh Bawn, subject to them meeting the Fund criterion.
The Fund is open to community and voluntary groups, not for profit groups and organisations with charitable status. The Fund will prioritise projects and initiatives that will benefit the area surrounding Sliabh Bawn, subject to them meeting the Fund criterion.
The Fund Guidelines and Application Form are available on: https://www.communitybenefitfunds.ie/sliabhbawn
The Fund Guidelines and Application Form are available on: https://www.communitybenefitfunds.ie/sliabhbawn. The closing date for applications is Friday 30th January 2026.
The Fund Guidelines and Application Form are available on: https://www.communitybenefitfunds.ie/sliabhbawn. The closing date for applications is Friday 30th January 2026.
The closing date for applications is Friday 30th January 2026.
Should you have any queries please contact SECAD Partnership CLG on 021 461 3432.
Should you have any queries please contact SECAD Partnership CLG on 021 461 3432.
Should you have any queries please contact SECAD Partnership CLG on 021 461 3432.
FarmingPeople
Castlerea MART WATCH
The recent downturn in weather conditions saw large numbers of stock presented for sale at the general cattle sale on Thursday, November 13th. Some sections have noticed a dip in the quality on offer with prices slightly easier for some lots, but quality lots remain unchanged with strong demand across the board as buyers source stock. The heifer ring recorded €7.20 a kilo paid for a breeding heifers, with a good clearance taking place. Dry cows made up to €3910 cows, while calves at foot made up to €3350 and springer made €2880. The weanling rings reported a stronger trade this week with bulls hitting €7.23 a kilo, while heifer weanlings peaked at €7.17 a kilo. The runner and calf section recorded bigger numbers this week, with a great clearance taking place.
There were 180 bullocks on offer at the bullock sale held on Monday, November 10th, with top quality stores making up to €5.95 a kilo, heavier lots making up to €3330, and an average price of €4.49 a kilo paid.
Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Mondays with the weekly bullock sale and on Thursdays with the weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.
Roscommon MART WATCH
Cattle: There was a very large entry of stock on offer at Friday’s general cattle sale and special sale of bullocks on November 14th, with trade remaining strong for both bullocks and stripper cows.
Bullocks fetched an average of €4.65 per kilo up to €6.30 per kilo. There was a large entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.26 per kilo up to €4.28 per kilo. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.
Dry cows, sample prices: LMX - 745KG€3190 - €4.28 per kg, BBX – 725KG - €2680 - €3.70 per kg, CHX – 680KG - €2480- €3.65 per kg, SIX - 630KG - €2400 - €3.81 per kg, HEX - 735KG - €2360 - €3.61 per kg, SIX675KG - €2230 - €3.30 per kg.
Bullocks, sample prices: CHX - 835KG€4000 - €4.79 per kg, LMX - 815KG - €3900€4.79 per kg, Ø 1 SIX – 755KG - €3200 - €4.24 per kg, Ø 1 CH – 545KG - €3000
- €5.50 per kg, PTX - 495KG - €2700 - €5.45 per kg, and BBX - 475KG - €2680 - €5.64 per kg.
Weanlings
There was a good entry of good quality weanlings on offer at the sale held on Tuesday, November 18th, with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active.
Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €5.33 per kilo up to €7.78 per kilo. Heifer weanlings made from an average of €5.52 per kilo up to €7.00 per kilo. The next sale will be held on Tuesday, November 25th, at 4 pm.
Bull weanlings, sample prices: CHX – 370KG-€2880 - €7.78 per kg, two LMX397KG -€2240 - €5.64 per kg, BBX- 450KG -€2200 -€4.89 per kg, SIX - 315KG-€2000€6.35 per kg, AAX - 275KG-€1780-€6.47 per kg, CH - 340KG - €1320 - €3.88 per kg, and HEX - 265KG - €1100 - €4.15 per kg.
Heifer weanlings, sample prices: LMX -320KG -€2240- €7.00 per kg, CHX -355KG€2140-€6.03 per kg, two-CHX – 317.5KG€1920 - €6.05 per kg, CH - 290KG- €1640€5.66 per kg, and LMX - 335KG - €2140 - €6.39 per kg.
Sheep
There was a good entry of sheep on offer at the weekly sale of lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, November 19th. Prices for lambs made up to €180 while stag ewes topped out at €218. The next sheep sale will take place on Wednesday, November 26th. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a
Friday 21st November @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks
Friday 28th November @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Bullocks Also, Dry Cows and Heifers Bookings accepted until Monday 24th November @ 5 p.m.
Friday 5th December @ 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers Also, Dry Cows and Bullocks Bookings accepted until Monday 1st December @ 5 p.m.
Sale of Lambs
and Cast Ewes Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m. Tuesday 25th November @ 4 p.m. Sale of Weanlings Bookings now being accepted Saturday 29th November @ 11a.m. Organic Cattle Sale Bookings now being accepted
Pictured at the recent Glenamaddy Ploughing & Agricultural Show. Photo: Michael Finan
Ian Conlon Tractor Run…
The Ian Conlon Tractor Run was held recently. The event, held in memory of the late Ian Conlon, began in Roscommon and finished in Ballintubber. The event was a big success again this year. Photos: Michael Finan
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Claire Hoare, Tara Giblin, Edel Quigley, Mags McGoldrick and Megan Gaughan.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Esme Finnerty, Shauna McGrath and Eve O’Rourke.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Joshua McCormack and Aisling Shanagher.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Shauna Francis and Paddy Mulheir.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Simon Mulvey and Rebecca Rogers.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Michael and Aisling O’Connor.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Sean Og and Grainne Higgins.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Caoimhe O’Reilly and Claire Grehan.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Ella Thompson, Sinead Kenny, Aisling Tarmey, Ellie Mae Coen, Natasha O’Rourke, Ava Malone and Amy Malone.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Dermot and Chloe Donnelly and Laura and JJ Leonard.
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were Kevin Egan (local journalist), Declan Walsh (Roscommon LGFA Chairperson) and Pat Heneghan (Roscommon LGFA Vice Chairperson).
Photos: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were the Senior Team of the Championship. Front (L-R): Ava Gavin (Clann na nGael), Aine McGrath (St Brigid’s), Aoife Gavin (St Dominic’s), Claire Grehan (St Brigid’s), Aine O’Meara (St Brigid’s), Abby Curran (St Brigid’s). Back (L-R): Ciara Dowd (St Ciaran’s), Mia Macken (Clann na nGael), Megan McKeon (Boyle), Caoimhe O’Reilly (St Brigid’s), Kate Nolan (St Brigid’s), Aisling Feeley (Boyle), Shauna Bannon (Clann na nGael), Lilly Murray (St Dominic’s). Missing from photo: Aine O’Brien (St Brigid’s).
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were the Intermediate Team of the Championship. Front (L-R): Niamh Toolan (St Barry’s), Erica Jordan (St Barry’s), Edel Beirne (St Barry’s), Aisling Hanly (Kilbride), Laura Glennon (Pádraig Pearses), Ella Thompson (St Croan’s). Back (L-R): Emma McGreal (Pádraig Pearses), Holly Rogers (Pádraig Pearses), Lorraine Kenny (Pádraig Pearses), Helena Cummins (Michael Glaveys), Amy Malone (St Croan’s), Sinead Kenny (St Croan’s), Aisling Shanagher (Kilbride). Missing from photo: Shannon McGuinness (St Barry’s) and Sheila Brady (Michael Glaveys).
Pictured at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday were the Junior Team of the Championship. Front (L-R): Katie Murray (St Faithleach’s), Ellen Irwin (St Faithleach’s), Anna Carty (Northern Harps), Aisling Callaghan (Northern Harps), Shauna McGrath (Northern Harps), Shona Hanly (St Mary’s). Back (L-R): Rachel Gormley (Northern Harps), Rebecca Coyle (Kilglass Gaels/Kilmore), Natalie McHugh (Kilglass Gaels/Kilmore), Hannah Moylan (St Mary’s), Sandra Keane (St Mary’s), Ciara Cunningham (Northern Harps), Grace Finnerty (Northern Harps), Sarah Gunn (Northern Harps), Lauren Shanagher (Northern Harps).
Pictured are St Faithleach’s All-Star recipients Ellen Irwin and Katie Murray at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night.
Lauren Shanagher (Northern Harps) is presented with her All-Star Award by Roscommon LGFA Chairperson Declan Walsh at the Roscommon LGFA AllStar Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday evening.
Aisling Hanly (Kilbride) is presented with her All-Star Award by Roscommon LGFA Chairperson Declan Walsh at the Roscommon LGFA All-Star Awards Night in the Abbey Hotel on Friday evening.
Photos: Michelle Hughes Walsh
< CORMAC SHEEHY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SHEEHY MEARES
REAL ESTATE
Sheehy Meares Real Estate has had a landmark year. The independent agency, with offices in Roscommon, Athlone, Ballinasloe, Galway and Dublin, has been shortlisted for the prestigious KPMG Irish Independent Property Industry Excellence Awards in the Small Agency category.
For Managing Director Cormac Sheehy, the nomination is more than industry recognition. It is a reflection of a team who have worked tirelessly
to build a modern, service-driven estate agency rooted in trust and community.
“We set out to create an agency that genuinely prioritises service and accountability,” Cormac explains. “The property industry is built on relationships. People need straight answers, clear communication and professional guidance from someone they can trust. Being shortlisted for this award shows we are on the right path.”
Since establishing the Sheehy Meares brand, the team has continued to expand its services and refine its processes. Today the agency supports clients across residential sales, agricultural land, valuations, lettings, commercial property and development consultancy. Their approach is built on a combination of strong local knowledge, experienced staff and a commitment to operational excellence.
Central to the firm’s success are two long-standing and highly respected consultants: John Earley and Michael McCullagh, both household names in the region for their extensive experience, market insight and trusted reputations.
“John and Michael bring decades of expertise and integrity to the business,” Cormac says. “Their understanding of the market, especially in land, agricultural and residential sectors, is invaluable. They continue to mentor our teams and contribute to complex sales and valuations. Having senior consultants of that calibre sets the tone for the entire company.”
Cormac also highlights the importance of investing in people and internal structure. The team includes licensed auctioneers, sales negotiators, property managers and administrative specialists
who work across multiple offices under a shared standard of service.
“We’ve been very focused on training, systems and consistency. Every client should feel supported from instruction to completion, whether they’re selling a family home, negotiating probate, or managing a rental. Our strength lies in our team and the culture we’re building”, said Cormac.
The shift to an independent brand has been transformative. With more flexibility and control over marketing, technology and internal processes, Sheehy Meares Real Estate has introduced new initiatives in digital advertising, CRM systems, compliance, social media strategy and client communication.
“It has allowed us to modernise quickly and respond to what clients really need,” Cormac adds. “Strong presentation, accurate valuations, proactive communication and genuine professionalism. These aren’t extras for us. They’re the foundation.”
The team remains focused on its dayto-day work: supporting clients, growing the business and strengthening their footprint across the Midlands and West.
“Our aim is to become the most trusted and service-led agency in the region,” Cormac says. “This nomination is a milestone, but it’s also motivation. It reinforces why we do what we do – for our clients, our team and our communities.”
For valuations, confidential sales advice or rental guidance, call Sheehy Meares Real Estate on 090 6626579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, or visit sheehymeares.ie. Stay up to date with Sheehy Meares Real Estate by following them on social media.
• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires
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Sarah
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deadline is STRICTLY 2pm on Tuesday
NERNEY
James Fairvalley, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) (20 November 2024)
A silent house, an empty chair. Someone missing everywhere. Life goes on, we know that’s true, but it’s not the same since we lost you. Your memory is so precious. Your presence missed so much.
You will always be remembered and loved by all of us.
Forever loved and deeply missed by your wife Breege, family and friends.
James 1st Anniversary Mass on Sunday 23 November at 10.00am in St Cecilia’s Church, Curraghroe.
In loving memory of dear Eileen who passed away on the 23rd November 2022.
TIGHE
Maura Cloonfad, Rooskey (3rd Anniversary)
In loving memory of Maura Tighe who passed away on 22nd November 2022.
Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday.
Unseen, unheard but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.
Sadly missed by her loving sons Seamus and Vincent; daughters Assumpta, Marie, Kathleen, Angela, extended family and friends Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Rooskey on Sunday 23rd November at 11.30am.
THOMPSON Padraig
Scramogue, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)
In loving memory of Padraig who passed away on the 25th November 2023
Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear.
Lovingly remembered every day by her husband Tommie, children Mairead, Rachel, Emma, Joseph; grandchildren Amy, James and Maisie; sons-in-law; sisters Patricia and Anne; and brothers Mickey, Paddy and Gerald and all the extended family.
Anniversary Mass in St Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 23rd November at 11.30am
A silent house, an empty chair. Someone missing everywhere. Life goes on, we know that’s true, but it’s not the same since we lost you. Your memory is so precious. Your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and loved by all of us.
Sadly missed by his wife Maire, son Michael; daugher Siobhan; daughter-in-law Helena, son-in-law Ollie; Grandchildren Rachel, Laragh, Michelle, Éabha and Mikey, relatives and friends.
Anniversary Mass in Scramogue Church on Sunday 28th December at 10am
DOLAN
Patricia (Patsy)
Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 24th October 2025.
We, the family of the late Patricia (Patsy) Dolan, Darena, John, Paul, Aidan, David and our families, her sister Kathleen, brothers Tom and Martin and her extended family wish to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all the kindness and support shown to us on our heartbreaking loss.
Sincere thanks to the staff in Mullingar Hospital, Roscommon Hospital and Roscommon Mayo Hospice who looked after Patsy with such care, dignity and compassion during her short illness. Thank you to the staff of Elphin Medical Centre, Castle St Surgery and Hynes Pharmacy for their care of Patsy over the years. We are grateful to everyone who offered their condolences, visited our home, brought food and shared warm words and fond recollections of Patsy which have given us such comfort and evoked great memories of her life. We wish to acknowledge friends, relations and work colleagues who attended the removal and funeral, many of whom travelled long distances to be with us. We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who sent Mass Cards, enrolments, messages of sympathy and online condolences remembering Patsy over the years. Thanks to Cathal and Mary Brady Funeral Directors for their professionalism, sensitivity, and attention to detail in managing the funeral arrangements. Thanks to Pat Smyth, Roscommon for facilitating the removal. Thanks to Julie Dolan for the beautiful flowers and thanks also to our wonderful neighbours who prepared her final resting place beside Gus in Caldra cemetery.
Thank you to Fr. Victor Samugana and Fr Kieran Whitney for celebrating the Funeral Mass so beautifully. We are grateful to have had the beautiful voice and music of Carmel McLoughlin which made the ceremony so special. Thanks to Kitty Burke for all her help and the altar servers who assisted at the ceremony A special word of thanks to our family, neighbours, staff past and present in Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown and the community who formed Guards of Honour for Patsy on her final journey, it was very thoughtful and meant so much to us.
Thanks to Adrian Greally and the staff of the Abbey Hotel for the hospitality and wonderful meal following the funeral service.
As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude and deepest appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions.
We miss your smile, your gentle grace, no one can take your special place. Your love still lights our hearts so true, forever near in all we do.
The Month’s Mind Mass for Patsy will be celebrated on Friday 21st November 2025 in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House at 7.00pm.
In loving memory of lives so beautifully lived, and hearts so deeply loved.
Loved and remembered by all the family.
CONNOLLY Treasa (26th Anniversary)
In loving memory of Treasa, late of San Francisco, Glinsk, and Roscommon who died on the 15th November 1999
A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for someone special in God’s care. Always remembered by Michael, Lisa, Shane and Marc and grandchildren Nathan, Nora, James, Pence and Tessa.
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.
Carrowmore, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon Who died on 7th October 2025.
The family of the late Lionel Simpson wish to extend our heartfelt thanks for the many expressions of sympathy and kindness shown to us following Lionel’s passing. Thank you to all who called to the Funeral Home, attended the Funeral Service, sent Mass Cards, sympathy cards, and messages of condolences on R.I.P. ie Thanks to the kind neighbours and friends who called to the house, brought food and sat with him as he was waked at home.
We would like to thank Canon Ed Smyth for conducting the Funeral Service, the readers, Canon Edward Yendall for providing the music and those who managed the parking round the Church. Thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their guidance, support and professionalism and to those who prepared Lionel’s resting place. Thanks also to the Abbey Hotel for provided beautiful food afterwards.
A special word of thanks to Dr. Valerie Morris and all the Doctors and Nurses in UHG, Merlin Park Hospital, Roscommon Hospital and the various clinics who treated Lionel over many years and especially to the staff in the Wellstone Clinic for the wonderful care and kindness shown to Lionel in his final months.
We wish to thank David Hynes and staff in Hynes Pharmacy for all their help. A big thank you to Kevin Bishop for driving Lionel to Galway and looking after him so well on the journey.
Finally thanks to everyone who made donations to the Irish Kidney Association in Lionel’s memory. Your generosity is gratefully appreciated.
FARRELL
Seamus
The Clump House, Kilrooskey, Co Roscommon Who died on 22nd October 2025.
We, the family of Seamus Farrell would like to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who sympathised and supported us on our recent bereavement.
Our thanks to all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass, Burial and sent cards. A special thanks to all the dedicated and caring staff of Portiuncula Hospital. Thanks to Fr. Daniel for the meaningful mass and to Eleanor Hanley for the beautiful music. A sincere thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism.
Months Mind Mass: Saturday 22nd November in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh at 7:30pm.
MCDERMOTT
(née Farrell) Bridie
Tonlagee, Roscommon and Ballymacurley, Roscommon. 23rd November 2024 (1st Anniversary)
The family of the late Bridie McDermott would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us following the passing of our dear mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Sincere thank you to the many people who called to the house to pay their respects, and to those who 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 Doctors, Nurses and Carers who looked after Mammy during her long life, especially the Staff of the Sacred Heart Hospital for the excellent care given to Mammy during her stay with them.
We thank Fr. Sean Beirne CC, Chaplain Sacred Heart Hospital and Fr. George Agger, SVD who was with Mammy prior to her passing. To Fr. Victor Samugana, MSP P.P., Fr. Jerry Lanigan, SVD and Fr. Ultan Naughton SSCC for celebrating her Funeral Mass.
We extend our thanks to Michelle Beirne and Caroline Cusack for providing beautiful music at the Mass. Thanks also to the Altar Society who had the church looking so well and to the gravedigger who prepared Mammy’s final resting place.
Our thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth, John Smyth, Smyth Undertakers for their professionalism and attention to detail in managing the Funeral arrangements. Thank you to the Abbey Hotel who provided a beautiful meal following the burial.
As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.
First Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday 23rd November 2025 at 11.00am in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House. Rest In Peace Mammy.
CURLEY
Peter and Molly
Thomastown, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon
In loving memory of Peter who passed away on 19th October 2008 and Molly who passed away on 24th November 2018 (17th and 7th Anniversaries)
As each day dawns, I think of you. As each night falls, I pray to you. Always lovingly remembered by your daughter, Mary. Mass offered.
Submit your classified online
Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
HOLMES
Gerry
Bon Bon, Main Street, Ballygar Co. Galway and formerly of Ballymachola, Co. Mayo (6th Anniversary)
To be back together in the same old way, would be my dearest wish today. We miss your smile, your happy ways, we wish we could return to those good old days. But here we are remembering you, hoping your dreams and prayers come through.
Always in our hearts, always on our minds, Julia and family.
Anniversary Mass for Gerry will be celebrated on Friday 21st November in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30 pm.
HAUGHEY
Noel Correal, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)
In loving memory of Noel who died on 23rd November, 2015.
What he suffered he told but few, he did not deserve what he went through, tired and weary he made no fuss, but tried so hard to stay with us.
Loved and remembered by Margaret and family.
Anniversary Mass in Church of Assumption, Fuerty on Sunday 23rd November at 11.30 am.
M cLOUGHLIN Eileen
Frenchpark, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
In loving memory of Eileen who passed away on November 27th, 2024 (1st Anniversary)
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.
A greatly missed Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, and lovingly remembered by all your family, neighbours and friends. United now forever with her beloved husband, Pat and son, Tomás.
Eileen’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church Boyle on Sunday November 23rd, at 9.30am
CLARKE
John
Galway Road, Roscommon town and formerly Fairymount. (1st Anniversary)
Treasured memories of a dear husband who passed away on 22nd November 2024
A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for a special person in God’s care.
Dearly loved and sadly missed by his wife Margaret and extended family.
Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday 23rd November at 11.30 am.
MURRAY
John Joe
Oran, Donamon, Roscommon
Who died on the 25th November 2019 (6th Anniversary)
HALLIDAY
Jack
Circular Road, Roscommon Who passed away on 20th November, 2022. (3rd Anniversary)
Loving memories never die as years roll on sad days pass by.
In our hearts a memory is kept of ones we loved and will never forget.
Loved and very sadly missed by his wife Anne and extended family members. Masses offered.
TULLY (neé Kelly)
Mary
In loving memory of Mary, Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon, who passed away on the 29th November, 2022 (3rd Anniversary)
The Day God Took You Home. In tears we saw you sinking, and watched you pass away. Our hearts were almost broken, we wanted you to stay. But when we saw you sleeping, so peaceful, free from pain, how could we wish you back with us to suffer that again? It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, for part of us went with you, the day God took you home.
Forever loved and deeply missed by her devoted family and dear friends.
Anniversary Mass for Mary will be held in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane, on Saturday, 13th December at 7.00 pm.
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.
You can only have one Father.
Patient, kind and true.
No other friend in all the world will be the the same to you. When other friends forsake you, to Father you will turn. For all his loving kindness he asks nothing in return.
As I look upon his picture sweet memories I recall, of a face so full of sunshine, and a smile for one and all.
Forever remembered by your daughter, Karen.
Leo Golf Links Road, Roscommon (5th Anniversary) Who passed away on 24th November 2020.
Time moves on but love remains. Five years have passed, yet nothing’s changed. Still missed, still loved, still thought of too. Forever in our hearts – that’s you.
Always loved and remembered by his wife Kathleen, Orla, Damian, Michelle and Alan, their partners and grandchildren.
Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 22nd November at 10am.
MONAGHAN
Denis and Mary (19th and 10th Anniversaries)
In loving memory of Denis who died on the 6th December 2006 and Mary who died on the 28th December 2015.
God looked around the garden and saw two empty spaces He then looked down upon the Earth, and saw your tired faces He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest God’s garden must be beautiful for He only takes the best. He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb, so He closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace be thine.”
It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone; for part of us went with you both, the day God called you Home.
Lovingly remembered by their son Denis, daughter-in-law Vera and grandchildren Amy and Shane.
Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday, 30th November at 10am.
HUNT
THANKSGIVINGS
THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER
Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it).
Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. B.D.
THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER
Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it).
Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. S.F.
M cDERMOTT
Nancy & Peter Cloonart Beg, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon
Nancy who passed away on the 19th November 2020.
Peter who passed away on the 27th December 2016
Will those who think of them today a little prayer to Jesus say.
Loved and remembered by all your family, neighbours and friends.
Mass has been offered.
DINEEN
(née Cahill) Breege
Cloonbard, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon,
- In loving memory of our wonderful wife and mother whose Fourth Anniversary occurs on November 25th 2025
Mother
We think about the fleeting years too quickly gone for good. It seems like only yesterday. I’d go back if I could.
A time when Mam was always there, no matter what the weather.
Always strong when things went wrong. She held our lives together.
She taught us that hard work pays off, you reap just what you sow, She said if you tend your crops, your field will overflow.
Mam dwells among the angels now, she left us much too soon. She glides across a golden field, above the harvest moon.
We see her in the summer rain, she rides above the wind.
And when our path is beaten down, she picks us up again.
A Prayer for the Forgotten Dead O Merciful God, take pity on those souls who have no particular friends and intercessors to recommend them to Thee, who, either through the negligence of those who are alive, or through length of time are forgotten by their friends and by all.
Spare them, O Lord, and remember Thine own mercy, when others forget to appeal to it.
Let not the souls which Thou hast created be parted from thee, their Creator. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Always loved and fondly remembered by Christy, Lisa, Nigel, Lorraine, Olivia, baby Vanessa, Cathal, Danielle, Christopher and Declan.
Breege’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 23rd November at 10am in St. Paul’s Church, Kilmurray. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace that she so richly deserves.
SNYPE
Mike & Gretta (née Madden)
Hollywell, Derrane, Co. Roscommon
(23rd Anniversary) Mike who passed away on 26th February 2002
(24th Anniversary) Gretta who passed away on 18th July 2001
Cherished memories of our dear parents. You always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care, a wonderful nature warm and true, those are the memories we have of you.
Always remembered by your family, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Masses have been offered in Knock. May they Rest In Peace.
In loving memory of our parents who passed away 24th October 2017 (Mary), and 05th February 2021 (Patsy)
Though your smiles are gone forever And your hands we cannot touch Still, we have so many memories Of the ones we loved so much
Your memories are our keepsake With which we’ll never part God has you in His keeping And we have you in our hearts.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all of the family.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated for Mary & Patsy in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow, on Friday 28th November at 7pm.
MORRIS
Thomas and Noreen Carrowroe, Roscommon
In loving memory of Tom, who died on October 13th, 2019 and Noreen, who died on January 5th, 2020.
In our hearts you will always stay, loved and missed every day.
Thomas and Noreen’s Sixth Anniversary Mass will be celebrated with others in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town at 10.00 am on the morning of Saturday, 6th December.
Due to continued growth, we are seeking to recruit motivated individuals across a range of skillsets for roles at our factory and our on-site installation teams
• Qualified Carpenters
• Experienced Plasterers/ Painters
• Experienced General Operatives
Excellent pay, benefits and pension available to successful candidates
Please forward your CV to jobs@lidan.com with your experience and references
Lidan Limited, IDA Business & Technology Park, Racecourse Road, Roscommon
SITUATIONS VACANT
< PART-TIME BAR STAFF REQUIRED for pub in Roscommon town. Must be available for weekend work. Experience desirable. Apply with CV to doorly196@gmail.com
< PERSON REQUIRED for busy office in Ballaghaderreen area. Two days per week. Invoicing and general office duties. Contact PO Box 3129 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.
< DOG MINDER REQUIRED two days per week in Roscommon town. Contact PO Box 3130, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. Deadline for advertisements is 2.00 pm on Tuesday
PLANNING NOTICES
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Molly Fallon, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house, new Treatment system and percolation area, and all ancillary site development works at Ross Beg, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
I, Paul Brooks, 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 Culliaghamy, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.
The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
Signed: Paul Brooks.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
We, Conor Mc Garry & Mairead Guckian intend to apply for planning permission to construct a dwelling house, entrance by boundary wall and install a septic tank and percolation area at Dower Td., Callow, Co. Roscommon.
This planning application may be inspected , or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. 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 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, Bernadette Crowe, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of dormer type extension to rear of existing dwelling, domestic garage to side of dwelling, associated site works and services at Manor, 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 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, Peter Beirne, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following:
1. To demolish the existing attached outbuilding.
2. To refurbish derelict house to include alterations to elevations and construct new rear extension.
3. To install new treatment system and percolation area.
4. To construct a new entrance along the front boundary, to form new boundary fencing where required to define the garden space associated with the building unit, and to carry out all ancillary site development works at Aghamuck, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon, F42 EE73. 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
We, Karen Moran & Jeremy Delanoue, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following
1. To demolish existing rear extension, and front boundary wall, 2. To refurbish derelict house to include alterations to elevations
3. To construct new rear extensions to same, 4. To upgrade treatment system and percolation area, 5. To form a new site entrance and construct new boundary wall along front boundary, and carry out all ancillary site development works at Toberavaddy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, F42 DC96. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
We, Michael & Maureen Kilboyle, intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the development of construction of a slatted shed with underground slurry storage tank along with all associated site works at Grange, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon.
The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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
to grant the application.
Signed: Michael and Maureen Kilboyle.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL
I, John Beirne, am applying to Roscommon County Council for: • retention for a rear roof and dormer, • confirm waste water connection to Irish Water network, • planning permission to construct detached garage and single story extension; and all ancillary site development works, at Srah, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, F42 K667. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of 20euros within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grand permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
I, Thomas Dowd, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for development consisting of construction of a new slatted shed and underground slurry storage tanks along with all associated site works. at Carroweighter, Donamon, Co. Roscommon, F42 TX46. 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 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 submission 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 the application.
Racing this afternoon (Thursday) is at Thurles, with a national hunt card starting at 11.45 am, featuring the Red Mills EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle. Tomorrow afternoon the postponed card at Fairyhouse (from last Tuesday week) goes ahead at 12 pm.
Saturday afternoon sees day one of a two-day festival meeting at Punchestown featuring the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle, starting at 11.30 am. Sunday’s card features the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle, off at 11.43 am. There is also racing at Cork on Monday featuring the Kevin McManus Bookmaker Handicap Chase, away at 11.30 am. Coverage on TV starts on Saturday with coverage of four races from Haydock and four from Ascot including two Grade 2 races, the Ladbrokes 1965 Chase and the Ladbrokes Ascot Hurdle on ITV and Virgin Media 1. They also cover the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle from Punchestown. On Sunday, RTÉ 2 cover four races from Punchestown
BUCCANEERS
including the Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase and the Grade 2 Craddockstown Novice Chase.
Navan on Saturday was postponed to Monday where five horses ran in the Lismullen Hurdle, with Lorna Fowler’s outsider 12/1 shot Colonel Mustard beating Gordon Elliott’s The Yellow Clay, odds-on favourite. The Fortria Chase also had five runners, with Elliott getting compensation when 5/2 Found A Fifty beat WP Mullins’ Dinoblue, 11/8 favourite. On Sunday, Kalypso’chance gave Elliott and Kennedy a double at the meeting, beating The Big Clubman in the Monksfield Novice Hurdle.
There were 19 runners in the Troytown Chase won by 11/1 chance Answer To Kayf, trained by Terence O’Brien and ridden by 3lb claimer John Shinnick. O’Brien has the Paddy Power at Leopardstown or the Welsh National at Ayr in mind for his star, but it is dependent on the going being guaranteed soft.
In the Beginners Chase, Mullins produced Final Demand, first time
by Tom Red
over the major obstacles, and he produced the best performance of the afternoon to easily beat 11 opponents winning by 13l under Paul Townend. Oldschool Outlaw won the bumper in the hands of Harry Swan to give Elliott a treble.
Hopefully this is not a sign of things to come, but the first race meeting of the season was lost to snow at Hexham yesterday, Wednesday. The meeting had been subject to an early morning inspection following heavy rain, which turned to snow on Tuesday and left the track unraceable.
Punchestown preview
On Saturday, the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle has attracted nine runners, five from Closutton, and they provide the first three in the betting with Anzadam the evens favourite, 3/1 bar.
On Sunday, there are only six in the Novice Chase with Andrew Slattery’s Fleur In The Park, 11/10, disputing favouritism with WP Mullins’ Westport Cove at 6/4 and
Buccaneers get taste of ‘Budapest blues’
Buccaneers and the Hungary soccer team had much in common last weekend, both going down to last-ditch scores after looking the better sides for much of their encounters.
At wet and windy Holmpatrick on Saturday, a final-move try by Ronan Mulcahy dashed Buccs hopes in their Energia All-Ireland League Division 2B game with the hosts pipping the midlanders 25-23. A second yellow card to the Pirates skipper Corey Reid with 23 minutes remaining was arguably the decisive incident in a well-contested encounter.
With the scores tied at 20-20, the Shannonsiders edged ahead with a 72nd minute McDonald penalty. Four minutes later the referee blew for a knock-on to award a scrum to Buccs, not playing advantage as MacFarlane was making promising strides down the right flank.
Then in the final move of a compelling encounter, a tired tackle fell off Harry Cole and he drew the final defender before sending Mulcahy over near the right corner for the winning try.
So heartbreak for Buccaneers who deserved far more than their losing bonus point for they looked the better outfit for much of this lively contest. They just ran out of steam in the testing conditions when being a player short.
Cooper, up against Kiwi U-20 Alex Hewitt (son of All-Black Norman), was Buccs’ most impressive performer with Sam Meecham and Oisin Dolan also putting in sterling efforts. Half-backs McDonald and MacFarlane kept Buccs on the front foot for large swathes of the match.
While the result was ultimately disappointing, the overall performance was a vast improvement on last time out and had discipline been better then the outcome would surely have gone in favour of Buccaneers.
WOMEN’S TEAM: Buccaneers women’s
team went down 48-0 to Southeast Galway Warriors in their Bank of Ireland Connacht League game on Sunday. The club thanks Ballinasloe RFC for hosting this fixture.
U-20s: Our U-20s fixture against leaders Queen’s University fell victim to the weather. Their next fixture is their rescheduled JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 game away to Seapoint on Sunday when the action kicks off in Kilbogget Park, Killiney at 2.30 pm.
‘YOUR CLUB YOUR COUNTRY’: All teams should have received their ‘Your Club Your Country’ Grand Draw tickets by now.
There is a super array of prizes on offer. The club keeps all funds raised from ticket sales so please sell, sell, sell. Meanwhile, our busy Administrator Geraldine has to enter every ticket onto the IRFU website for the draw so kindly get sold tickets to her by next weekend. The draw takes place on November 28th.
U-15 LEAGUE: Buccaneers travelled to Ballyhaunis for the next round of the Connacht U-15 League.
Sean Norton scored two tries and tackled relentlessly. Oscar Killeen also had a good game as had Luke Ward in a 43-31 win for Buccs.
U-14s: Buccaneers U-14s travelled to Creggs on Sunday for an early-morning friendly. A tough game with a good performance by a team who are improving week on week. Buccs emerged as the eventual winners on a final score of 34-22. Thanks for all the travelling support.
BEST OF LUCK: Congrats and best of luck to our nominees in the Westmeath Independent Community & Sports Awards… Andrew Henson, Buccaneers U-17s team, Michael Silke and Anna McGann.
CONGRATS: Congrats to Tommy Conlon on a significant birthday and well done to Robbie Henshaw on scoring a super try in Ireland’s win v Australia.
The John Durkan has 11 entries with Fact To File at evens and Gaelic Warrior 11/4, both trained by WP Mullins. They will not have it all their own way as Fastorslow makes his seasonal debut for Henry de Bromhead.
The 2024 Punchestown Gold Cup winner was fourth in this race last year and Sean Mulryan’s 9-Y-O hopes to add to his win in this race in
Short putts
ROSCOMMON
SENIOR MEN: Overall winner was John Earley (40 pts). Cat. 1: Noel Sharkey (34 pts); Cat. 2: Kieran Madden (36 pts); Cat. 3: Michael Tierney (28 pts); Cat 4: JT Finn (30 pts). There were four deuces (Kieran Madden, Willie Doyle, Noel Sharkey, Jackie Kilroy).
MEN’S RESULTS: Weekly 15-hole competition overall winner was Tom O’Farrell with 35 pts. Gross: Simon Walker (38 pts, off +5); Cat. 1: Alan Craven (33 pts); Cat. 2: Michael Healy (36 pts); Cat. 3: Liam Bagnell (34 pts).
AGMS: The Men’s, ladies and parent club annual general meetings were held last weekend. The new men’s captain is Padraic Cuddy. He has appointed Enda Daly as his vice-captain. The new lady captain is Una Clay and she has appointed Marina Cribbon as her vice-captain.
At the parent club AGM, outgoing president Johnny Walker announced that Marie McManus would be the incoming president for 2026. The new registrar will be Deirdre Judge who will take over from Paulie Hoare.
Tributes were paid to John McHale and Paulie Hoare who are stepping away from their positions. The treasurer’s post is still vacant. The club will be looking for someone to fill that position.
The management committee for 2026 will be: Deirdre Judge (Registrar), Rosemary O’Brien
Racing news
Marine Nationale’s seasonal debut will have to wait until Leopardstown at Christmas with Barry Connell opting not to run him in the rescheduled Fortria Chase at Navan last Monday as the ground was too testing for his star.
At the weekend AGM Olivia Costello was awarded honorary life membership of the club in recognition of being chosen on the Irish women’s team during the year. A presentation will be made to Olivia in due course.
A presentation will also be made to Sinead Benedetti who was selected on the Irish senior international team in 2025.
(NEWS FROM LOCAL GOLF CLUBS)
4/1 bar.
2023. De Bromhead’s horse seems to keep his best for Punchestown and is e/w value at 5/1.
No racing at Hexham!
(Hon. Secretary), Annie Timothy, Enda Daly, Billy Donnellan, Una Clay, Padraic Cuddy. Treasurer to be appointed.
New Roscommon Golf Club Men’s Captain Padraic Cuddy and outgoing captain Robbie McConn pictured at the recent Roscommon Golf Club Men’s AGM.
Pictured at the recent Roscommon Golf Club Ladies AGM were vice-captain Marina Cribbon, incoming captain Una Clay, and outgoing captain Una Gleeson.
Creggs
RFC Report
THE GAIN LINE
Creggs into All-Ireland semi-final after stunning win
All-Ireland Cup Quarter-Final: Creggs RFC 60
St Mary’s RFC 28. Following an excellent win over highly-rated Munster Junior 1A league leaders Kilfeacle in the previous round, Creggs made the journey to Limerick city to face St Mary’s in a novel All-Ireland Junior Cup quarterfinal pairing last Saturday afternoon.
Spurred on by a large home support, St Mary’s were dominant in the early exchanges against a Creggs team hoping to reach the semi-final of this prestigious competition for the first time.
Creggs scored in the 7th minute when the backs broke from deep to release winger Mikey Dunne for a wonderful team try. Moments later Creggs extended their lead with another excellent try by full-back Shane Dowd after Mark Purcell and Eoghan Coyle made the initial inroads. Purcell landed a superb conversion for a 12-0 lead.
Remarkably, Creggs scored two more tries in a blistering spell of attacking play with Shane Dowd scoring his second under the posts before scrum-half Cormac Dolan raced clear for another scintillating try for the Connacht representatives. Ronan Dowd extracted maximum advantage with two well-judged conversions for a 26-0 lead after just 18 minutes of non-stop action.
St Mary’s hit back with a well-worked try by their full-back Paul Loughlin which Adam Guerin converted to narrow the gap. St Mary’s added another converted try in the 33rd minute. Creggs hit back with another remarkable try by winger Dean O’Reilly who glided through the Mary’s defence for a superb solo try to put Creggs ahead 31-14 with half-time approaching.
St Mary’s hit back immediately for their third try by no. 8 Ruairi O’Donnell which Guerin converted to leave the visitors 10 points ahead at the end of a breathtaking half.
The second half started in a similar fashion with Creggs winger Dean O’Reilly charging down an attempted clearance and touching down in the left corner.
Moments later a fine break by Mikey Dunne resulted in powerful centre Mark Purcell crashing over for a seventh try with Ronan Dowd landing an exquisite conversion for a 43-21 lead.
A brilliant crossfield kick by Mark Purcell led to another try by Dean O’Reilly in the 66th minute which was converted by Purcell from the touchline.
O’Reilly scored his fourth try of the afternoon in the closing stages after great work by Dunne. A notable feature of this outstanding victory is that all ten tries were scored by the backs with the platform laid by a totally committed forward unit.
St Mary’s kept going to the end and deservedly crossed for a try by full-back Loughlin before Creggs’ Chris Duignan closed out the scoring in a quite amazing game of rugby.
Creggs now advance to the All-Ireland Junior Cup semi-final and await the draw with Athy,
Dromore and Seapoint or Wicklow still in the mix for a cup final spot.
Creggs have been drawn against Dromore RFC from Northern Ireland in the semi-final of the All-Ireland Cup. The fixture is set as a home game for Creggs on Saturday, December 13th. This will be a huge occasion for the club and big support will be needed on the day.
SENIOR WOMEN: Creggs senior women travelled to Ballinrobe RFC last Sunday for Round 5 of the Women’s Senior League and came away with a bonus point victory.
Creggs came out of the blocks with a welltaken try from Shannon Haugh after a fine break from Eabha Dowd. They couldn’t add to the score until the last play of the half when Shannon Haugh went over again after Shauna Fitzmaurice made a great break. Eabha Dowd converted for a 12-0 lead.
In the second half Haugh got in for her third try of the afternoon after excellent carries from Gabrielle Kilcommons and Sabina Egan. Eabha Dowd then scored and secured the bonus point after excellent work down the wing by Jennifer Morris and Megan Donohoe set her free.
Shortly afterwards, a fine carry by Rachel Kilcoyne and then Shauna Fitzmaurice breached the home defence and Shauna off-loaded to Isabelle Quinn who touched down, Eabha Dowd converting for a 29-0 lead. Creggs continued to attack and when Stacey Corbally gathered a clearing kick she ran back and released Shannon Haugh for her fourth try of the day which Eabha Dowd converted again for a 36-0 lead.
The home team never gave up and were rewarded for their play when they scored a try from close-range which they converted with time almost up. It was Creggs who had the last play
when they carried into the opposition 22 where Seren Griffiths spotted a gap and glided through. Eabha Dowd converted with the last kick of the game to leave the final score at 43-7.
U-16/U-18 GIRLS: Creggs U-16 and U-18 girls had an early start on Saturday morning, travelling to Garryowen RFC in Limerick for a couple of friendlies.
The U-16s had a tough game against the hosts. Creggs had the pace out wide while the hosts had the power through the middle. Both teams scored in the first half to leave it 7-7 at half-time. Creggs ultimately won 19-14.
The U-18s played a great spirited game of rugby with a great display of attack and defence from both teams. Every single girl walked off the pitch with a huge smile.
It was a great day for all the girls, not least from a bonding perspective. Thanks also to the parents for all.
U-15 BOYS: Creggs U-15s had their third outing of the league at home last Sunday morning in a repeat of last year’s league final against Carrickon-Shannon RFC.
The first try came shortly after the 10-minute mark. Creggs kept the foot on the gas and almost immediately scored another 7-pointer. A third try had them 21-0 up after 20 minutes. Carrick pressed hard and came back into the game to score seven points before half-time.
The second half started with Carrick on the front foot and they got their reward with a welltaken try to leave it 21-14 with 25 minutes to go.
A massive Creggs defensive shift saw them hold on for a 21-14 win.
U-14 BOYS: Creggs RFC U-14s had an early start when they welcomed Buccaneers to Creggs for a friendly game on Sunday morning. It was
Buccaneers who took an early 12-0 lead before the local side settled and drew level with tries from Ethan Coyne and Harris Curran. Curran also converted his own try.
Buccaneers added on two more tries and Creggs followed with two more scored by Harry Dolan and Tighe Duignan to level at 22-22 going into the last 20 minutes.
It was all to play for at this stage. Buccaneers upped their game to bring their score to 34 with two tries and a conversion. The game finished 34-22 to Buccaneers. This was a good workout for both sides. Creggs U-14 squad are out again this Sunday morning at 10.30 am for a home match against Sligo.
MINI RUGBY: Mini rugby training went ahead on Saturday morning. This weekend training remains at Creggs whilst the U-10s head off for a blitz.
CONGRATS: Congrats to Joseph McSharry, Dan Kelly and Callum Curran who represented Connacht at Clongowes Wood at U-18 and U-19.
MEN’S U-20s: The inaugural Connacht U-20s game was held at Creggs on Friday night last. Connacht Rugby in conjunction with some clubs organised a 3-match series to keep the link from U-18 to senior team rugby. Two regional sides were selected with North Connacht represented by Westport, Claremorris, Ballina and Sligo, while South Connacht was selected from Creggs, Ballinasloe and Loughrea.
This was a fantastic night’s rugby with only one score between the sides at the finish. Congrats to all involved.
LOTTO: The Lotto jackpot was not won and now goes up to €8,200. The lucky dip winner was Anita Fannon.
The Creggs Boys U-15s, who played Carrick-on-Shannon last weekend.
The Creggs Firsts, who had a great win over St Mary’s.
The Creggs senior women’s team line up prior to playing Ballinrobe.
Grace Shaughnessy and Grace Kelly (Creggs U-18 Girls).
Heartbreak for St Croan’s
AIB
Connacht Club
JFC
semi-final
Kiltimagh 2-11 St
(Kiltimagh won 3-2 on penalties, after extra-time)
After a dramatic rally that saw them come from six points down with ten minutes to go in normal time, Roscommon junior champions St Croan’s were denied a place in the Connacht final in the cruellest way possible as they lost a penalty shootout in Ballyforan last Sunday to Mayo champions Kiltimagh.
It was a hard-fought contest all through. Kiltimagh were marginally the better side in the opening half, and a goal from Paul Kelly helped them into a 1-6 to 0-5 half-time lead.
Croan’s were better on the restart and three points without reply had them back to within a point. But when
Fionnan Burke scored a second goal for Kiltimagh the Roscommon team were in trouble, now down 2-8 to 0-8.
Injured stars Ross Timothy and Greg Grogan were on the field and the Roscommon champions refused to surrender. Keith Muldoon pointed a free and then substitute Callum Pacey bundled home a goal to reduce the margin to two with six minutes left.
A point from play from Ger Connaughton and a converted free from Keith Muldoon in the 7th minute of injury-time saw the sides level at 2-8 to 1-11. With the teams level on fulltime, the game went to extra-time. Mike Holland, who had a superb
Magic dust bypassed Roscommon!
For Ireland’s huge football fan base, last weekend will be a time never to be forgotten after two stunning performances by the Republic of Ireland – with the senior team qualifying for a World Cup play-off and our U-17s advancing to the World Cup via a historic penalty shootout win against Canada. Congratulations to both teams and their managers and well done to all supporters who made the long journeys to the relevant venues.
Locally, the Roscommon & District League team bowed out of this season’s Oscar Traynor Cup competition when beaten 5-2 by the Sligo/Leitrim League at McSharry Park, Sligo. To be fair to the Roscommon side the scoreline in no way reflected the way they played with the deciding goals coming late in the game.
Roscommon & District League started well in fact and after coming close to scoring on a couple of occasions they were in front with 14 minutes played. A great ball over the defence by David Flanagan reached Tommy Hurley and the St John’s player beat the opposing ‘keeper to score.
The home side were level with 23 minutes played as Shane Rooney broke clear and gave Conor Cooke no chance with a close-range shot.
Two minutes later Ryan McManus gave the home side a 2-1 lead from the penalty spot after a handball. It was 3-1 shortly afterwards. The Roscommon goalkeeper made a good stop from Stephen Fallon but the ball broke to Israel Ayorinde who finished from close-range.
game for the Roscommon champions, made two excellent saves in extra-time before converted frees from Muldoon and Aidan Brogan saw St Croan’s move ahead by a point at the break.
St Croan’s led into injury-time at the end of extra-time but Thomas Keegan’s point from play for the Mayo side levelled the scores again, meaning the outcome would have to be decided by the dreaded penalty shootout.
St Croan’s scored their first two penalties – with Ger Connaughton and Alan Conroy on the mark – but the Roscommon men missed their next four spot-kicks and it was Fionnan Burke who put his side through to the
Croan’s 1-14
final against Aughavas of Leitrim.
St Croan’s: Mike Holland; Ryan Hanley (0-1), Brendan Pacey, Ger Connaughton (0-1); Alan Conroy (0-1), Mark Kilcommins, Richie Thompson (0-2, 1 ’45); Adam Bracken, Eoin Collins; Adrian Collins (0-1), Freddie Kelly, Cathal Connelly; Keith Muldoon (0-5, 4 frees), Aidan Brogan (0-3), Kevin Lambert. Subs: Callum Pacey (1-0) for Kelly (27), Greg Grogan for Lambert (39), Ross Timothy for Connelly (51), Robbie Keenan for Timothy (64), Cathal Connelly for A Collins (71), Kevin Lambert for C Pacey (75), Brian Mullin for Keenan (80).
Daly calls it a day…
In a statement released on Friday evening Roscommon GAA announced that Niall Daly has confirmed his retirement from inter-county football following a 15-year career in the county colours at senior level.
Niall made his senior championship debut in 2011 against Tyrone at Croke Park in an All-Ireland qualifier, marking the beginning of a distinguished inter-county career.
Throughout his career, Murtagh made 149 appearances for Roscommon, scoring two goals and 52 points, and establishing himself as one of the county’s
For Ireland’s huge football fan base, last weekend will be a time never to be forgotten. Hero of the week was Troy Parrott (pictured in Budapest on Sunday) who scored five goals in two games to guide Ireland to the World Cup play-offs.
The Roscommon & District League got back in the game just before half-time when Charles Nevin was fouled after receiving a Cian Kelly pass. Nevin converted the penalty to make it 3-2.
The visitors piled on the pressure in the second half with Cathal Horan, Jay McPhilbin and Stephen Murray causing plenty of problems for the home defence. However, with the visitors committed to going forward Sligo/Leitrim made it 4-2 through Stephen Fallon with ten minutes left to play. In time added they won a penalty which was converted by Ashton Conlon.
Roscommon players on the day: Conor Cooke, David Flanagan, Keith Murphy, Jack Higgins, Rian Carpenter, Cathal Horan, Jay McPhilbin, Cian Kelly, Tommy Hurley, Stephen Murray, Charles Nevin, Danny Connolly, Shane Carroll, Jayden Tumulty, Aidan Fallon.
St Dominic’s pipped at the post
Roscommon champions St Dominic’s were defeated by the narrowest of margins by Galway’s Killimor in the Lawless Cup final played in Knockcroghery last Sunday. Killimor edged a tense encounter, during which defences were on top, by 0-6 to 0-5. St Dominic’s were the better side in the opening half and they went in at the break ahead by 0-4 to no score. Those St Dominic’s scores all came from frees with Nimah Fitzgerald and Lilly Murray on target with two points each.
The Galway side were the better team in the second period with St Dominic’s scoring just one point in that half, another free from Fitzgerald.
In tense closing exchanges the game looked set to go to extra-time but Niamh Horan popped up to convert a free in injury-time to claim the win and deny St Dominic’s.
most consistent and influential performers.
Roscommon GAA said: “A natural leader both on and off the pitch, Niall’s professionalism, commitment, and resilience earned him immense respect within the dressing room and among supporters across the county.
“His contribution to Roscommon football has been immense, and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and integrity.”
Niall joins Donie Smith and Ciaráin Murtagh who have announced their retirements in the past two months.
The Roscommon champions still have lots to look foeward to however and will now turn their attention to an All-Ireland junior semi-final against St Peter’s, Dunboyne on a date (over the coming weeks) yet to be confirmed.
GAA action this weekend
This weekend there are three county football finals down for decision. On Friday night at Ballyforan at 8 pm Michael Glaveys face St Dominic’s in the RosGal Assessors Junior B Championship final.
Then on Saturday at Lisnamult, St Croan’s/ Oran play Kilbride in the U-20 Division Two Football final at 4 pm, while in Strokestown, Kilglass/St Barry’s play Tulsk in the U-20 Division Three Football final at 5 pm.
All square after top of table thriller!
SOCCER: Glen Celtic and Ballyboro, currently the top two teams in the Killeen Sports Grounds Division Two, clashed at the League grounds, Lecarrow on Friday night. After a six-goal thriller the game finished level. Three times the Glenamaddy side were in front only to be reined in on each occasion.
Aaron Comer gave Glen Celtic the lead after nine minutes, with David Rooney equalising seven minutes later. Glen regained the lead when Ethan O’Dowd scored but Aidan Dooney levelled with two minutes played in time added on at the end of the first half.
Michael Heneghan made it 3-2 for Glen with 51 minutes played but David Rooney got his second goal six minutes later. Both teams had chances to win the game but overall a share of the spoils was a fair result.
Rahara Rovers drew 1-1 with Lough Harps in an entertaining game at Rahara. The visitors got off to a good start with Eamonn Phillips scoring. Rahara were better in the second half and a Daniel Crehan lob was saved by the alert Lough Harps goalkeeper. With 65 minutes played Darren Donnelly levelled the game with an excellent volley into the top corner of the net. Overall this was a fair result with both teams fielding many
young players.
Roscommon United’s A side had a hardearned 1-0 win over St Cuan’s/Ahascragh United at Roscommon. The only goal of the game came with ten minutes of play remaining when Gustavo Araujo scored. Ballinagare had a comfortable 7-3 win over Cloonfad’s second side at Cloonfad. Aaron Dowd opened the scoring for the winners after nine minutes of play but Jack Sullivan scored two quick goals for Cloonfad within three minutes. Sam French, Aaron Dowd and Jack McDermott added three more for Ballinagare before the break with Aaron Dowd completing his hat-trick before John Stokes and Jack McDermott added two more. Cloonfad’s third came by way of an own goal.
Moore United B beat Roscommon United 6-1. Shane Lacey gave Moore an early lead and Macken, Kenny, O’Hanlon, Whelan and McManus added five more before the end. Aidan Taylor replied for the losers.
Women’s League In the only game played in the Women’s League, Dunmore Town beat Kilkerrin United 2-1 at home. Lily Concannon and Erika Diskin scored for the winners and an own goal gave Kilkerrin hope.
Niall Daly in action for Roscommon during the Allianz Football League Division 2 Final match against Galway at Croke Park in April 2022. Photo by Ray McManus/ Sportsfile
Connacht IFC final: Strokestown v Kilmeena (Mayo)
Goals sink Gaels as Strokestown advance to final
SEAMUS DUKE AT KING & MOFFATT DR HYDE PARK
Goals in the first half from Mikey Kavanagh and Diarmuid McGann proved the decisive scores as Strokestown earned a place in the Connacht Intermediate Football final following this hardfought six-point win against Leitrim champions Allen Gaels at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park last Saturday.
The men from Drumshanbo pushed Strokestown all the way, and there was only a point between the teams with eight minutes to go. The Roscommon side came good in the final few minutes with points from sub Seanie McDonnell (a two-pointer), Shane McGinley (2) and Keith Murphy and that saw them over the line.
On a cold, breezy day, Allen Gaels played with the elements in the opening half. It was a very competitive contest all through. The sides were level at 0-4 apiece after 14 minutes. The Strokestown points had come from Colm Neary, Kevin Finn (free),
Diarmuid McGann (free) and Shane McGinley.
A worry for Strokestown at that stage was that Allen Gaels were on top at midfield, where Radek Oberwan was dominant. Nevertheless, the Roscommon champions delivered the first of their two goals in the 16th minute. Diarmuid McGann, who was very sharp in attack, made a great run and sidestep, setting up Mikey Kavanagh who made no mistake from close-range.
But the Leitrim men were always in contention, and in that opening half they kicked four twopointers, three of them after that first Strokestown goal, scores which kept them very much in the game. With the score at 0-9 to 1-6, Strokestown got in for goal number two in the 28th minute. This time it was McGann who took advantage of a poor clearance to rifle home.
In first-half injury-time Allen Gaels kicked another two-pointer (a free) from ex-Roscommon Gaels man Kieran Kilcline, and a fisted point from McGann sent the sides in at the break with Strokestown leading by 2-7 to 0-11.
With the aid of the strong wind Strokestown started the second half well with points from Kevin Finn and a two-point free converted by McGann. But the Roscommon men struggled after that and Allen Gaels came storming back into the game. Kieran Kilcline was warming to the task at corner-forward as Allen Gaels pinned Strokestown back, and between the 40th and 52nd minutes they outscored the ‘Town by 0-5 to 0-1.
Kilcline kicked three of those points (two frees), and with eight minutes left on the clock there was just a point between the sides, 2-11 to 0-16. But Strokestown brought on a number of subs who helped to steady the ship in the final few minutes.
Shane McGinley kicked a super point from
a difficult angle to set Strokestown on their way, and that was followed a minute later by another fine point, this one from Keith Murphy.
In the 55th minute, substitute Seanie McDonnell kicked a booming two-pointer and now the black and amber were set fair for the Connacht decider.
Shane McGinley completed the scoring in injurytime. The final margin of six points was flattering from a Strokestown point of view because they were made fight hard all the way, but they just about deserved their victory on the balance of play.
Timmy Gibbons was once again outstanding in the Strokestown defence while David Neary and Sean Mullooly also did some solid defensive work. Colm Neary showed some glimpses of his class at times but midfield remains a problem for Pearse McGinley’s men. Up front, Diarmuid McGann won a lot of ball and was very accurate from play and frees, while Keith Murphy and Shane McGinley also performed well.
For the Leitrim champions, Adrian Sorohan, Radek Oberwan, Ciaran McMorrow and Kieran Kilcline all did well on the day.
Strokestown will now face Mayo champions Kilmeena on this Sunday in the Connacht final at MacHale Park in Castlebar (1.30 pm).
Strokestown have plenty of top class performers in their team but they know that they will have to play their best game of the year to beat what looks a strong Kilmeena side. However, it is a game that Strokestown are well capable of winning if they can iron out their problems at midfield, and their supporters will justifiably travel with realistic hopes of provincial glory.
Strokestown: Niall Curley; Dillon Casey, Dylan Owens, Timmy Gibbons; Ciaran Regan, Sean Mullooly, David Neary; Colin Compton, Fionn Cusack; Mikey Kavanagh (1-0), Kevin Finn (0-2, frees), Colm Neary (0-1); Diarmuid McGann (1-7, 1 2pf, 3 frees), Keith Murphy (0-1), Shane McGinley (0-3). Subs: Evan Moran for Kavanagh (45), Seanie McDonnell (0-2, 2p) for Cusack (45), Cian Corcoran for Mullooly (53), Luke Kelly for Finn (55), Andrew Jordan for Murphy (57).
Allen Gaels: Daniel Egan; Adrian Sorohan, Mark Gunning, Martin Raftery; Arek Oberwan, Kyle Flynn, Karl Foley; Brian Mulvey, Radek Oberwan (0-2, 2p); Thomas Mulvey, Caleb Duffy (0-3, 1 2p), Shane Walsh; Kieran Kilcline (0-5, 1 2pf, 2 frees), Ciaran Walsh (0-2, 2p), Ciaran McMorrow (0-4, 2 frees). Subs: Jake Tobin for Raftery (46), Emmet Moran for S Walsh (40), Alan Wynne for C Walsh (56).
Wides: Strokestown 5 (3, first half); Allen Gaels 9 (3, first half)
Man of the Match: Diarmuid McGann (Strokestown)
Action from
Saturday’s Connacht IFC semi-final at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park in which Strokestown defeated Allen Gaels by 2-16 to 0-16. David Neary (Strokestown) beats Kyle Flynn to the ball. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Connacht IFC final: Strokestown v Kilmeena (Mayo)
Strokestown have the quality to surprise favourites
AIB Connacht Club IFC final: Kilmeena (Mayo) v Strokestown on Sunday at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar at 1.30 pm
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Strokestown will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Elphin, Western Gaels, St Croan’s, Michael Glaveys, St Faithleach’s and Castlerea St Kevins in Sunday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Castlebar as Roscommon winners of the provincial championship since it began in 2003.
Even the most partisan Strokestown follower will admit that their team has not played to their potential so far in this campaign, but they are getting the job done week on week, and that resilience will stand to them when they take to the field on Sunday.
In the opposite corner will be an impressive Kilmeena side who breezed through the Mayo championship before easily accounting for the Sligo champions Coolaney/Mullinbreena in the semi-final. But their win in the quarter-final
after extra-time against the Galway champions Caltra is the performance that many observers feel makes them favourites to lift the title on Sunday.
Strokestown have been struggling in the middle of the field all through the championship. In the county final Éire Óg were on top in that sector and last Saturday Allen Gaels were also the better side around the middle. This time around Pearse McGinley and his selectors will have to formulate a plan to deal with the Kilmeena pairing of Jack Carney and Kevin Ryder who have been magnificent in the middle of the park all year for the Mayo side.
But Strokestown have many other strings to their bow and the team is laced with top class performers who won’t be intimidated by the big occasion. Niall Curley, Timmy Gibbons, Davy Neary and Sean Mullooly have been very solid in defence all through the campaign.
McGinley praises role of subs
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When Strokestown manager Pearse McGinley spoke to the Roscommon People after the game he was just happy to have got through it with a win.
“It was a tough game. Fair play to Allen Gaels, they brought their A game today, they really put it up to us. We had the bit of quality at the end to get us across the line. The two goals came at just the right time, but Allen Gaels fought back well.”
He acknowledged the contribution of his subs late in the game.
“We have three or four lads coming off the bench making the difference in every game. They’re just as good as what’s coming off the pitch. It was getting nervy there for a while.”
As to the prospect of a Connacht final against the Mayo champions Kilmeena, he was under no illusions about the scale of the challenge.
“It’s going to be a tough game. We watched Kilmeena last week. They’re a very good team and we’ll have our work cut out. But we’ll be prepared for them and we’ll give them a good game.”
Fionn Cusack and Colm Neary will have to try to win enough ball in midfield. If they succeed in doing so, the likes of Colin Compton, Kevin Finn, Keith Murphy, Shane McGinley and Diarmuid McGann are all capable of working the scoreboard operator.
Kilmeena are a very impressive side. In defence, Ciaran Kilcoyne, Stephen Staunton and Colin Hastings have been excellent in this campaign. Up front, John McGlynn, Jack Mulchrone, and Darragh Slattery, with Mayo senior star Jack Carney operating at midfield alongside Kevin Ryder, have been very prominent.
Home advantage will give Kilmeena an edge. On form they are probably the favourites to take the title, but if Strokestown can deliver their best performance of the campaign, they have the players to upset the odds. I think they can win it by a point or two.
Prediction: Strokestown.
‘We can throw shackles off’
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Strokestown’s experienced goalkeeper, Niall Curley is looking forward to Sunday’s match in Castlebar. When he spoke to the Roscommon People after last Saturday’s win against Allen Gaels, he first reflected on his team’s latest performance.
“We played well in the first half. We had two goals on the board at half-time so we were happy enough at that stage. But in the third quarter we gave away the ball a lot and the turnovers were killing us. But our work rate was excellent. But look, Allen Gaels were well set up and we were delighted to come out winners in the end.”
He paid tribute to the subs that came on late in the game.
“We have almost everyone back on the panel now and that’s crucial. You saw Seanie McDonnell coming on and scoring a two-pointer and that’s what pushed us on in the end.”
Niall says that winning in Roscommon was so important for the team and now they can look forward to Sunday’s provincial final.
“We were under serious pressure to win in Roscommon and now we are out of the county we can throw the shackles off. I am convinced that we have not clicked totally in terms of our performance and hopefully we can do that on Sunday in Castlebar. We are looking forward to the challenge now” he concluded.
Strokestown players lined up prior to last weekend’s Connacht IFC semi-final at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park in which they defeated Allen Gaels by 2-16 to 0-16. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Brigid’s blitz Ballina
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Those of us who suspected that St Brigid’s would blossom once they had escaped the bear pit that is the Roscommon SFC were proven right at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park last Sunday when they produced a sparkling display of superb attacking football to overwhelm Mayo champions Ballina in the provincial semi-final.
This display by St Brigid’s was not without its flaws though as they kicked ten wides and a number of other good chances were dispatched into the opposition goalkeeper’s hands. Perhaps more worryingly, they also conceded three goals, at least two of which were of the soft variety. But overall it was by far the best display of the championship to date from Anthony Cunningham’s men.
Their movement off the ball and the speed with which St Brigid’s transferred possession from defence into attack was a joy to behold as they laid siege to the Ballina goal for most of the game. With eleven different players getting on the scoresheet it was a superb team performance from the Roscommon champions.
On a bitterly cold, breezy day there was a dramatic start to the game, Ballina going 1-1 to no score ahead after only five minutes. Frank Irwin’s long delivery was fisted to the St Brigid’s net by Dylan Thornton in the 3rd minute with Irwin following up with a smart point two minutes later.
But it was very much a false dawn for the Mayo men as St Brigid’s took control at midfield and set about their task with relish. Points from Shane Cunnane and Bobby Nugent set them on their way and then in the 8th minute disaster struck for Ballina. Defender Sean Regan passed straight to Senan Kilbride and the veteran made no mistake, blasting the ball past David Clarke. Ben O’Carroll added to the Brigid’s lead two minutes later with a well-taken point.
Ballina were back in the game briefly after a
bizarre goal in the 17th minute. Once again Irwin was the creator, finding Evan Regan in the danger area. With his back to goal the team captain managed a spectacular bicycle kick to lob the ball over Conor Carroll and into the net to give his side a 2-1 to 1-3 lead.
From there to half-time St Brigid’s played some mesmerising football, scoring nine points without reply. With Brian Stack and Ruaidhrí Fallon driving them on from the half-back line, and Eddie Nolan and Shane Cunnane on top at midfield, the Brigid’s attackers ran riot with the ball sailing over the bar from a variety of angles and distances. Everything was done with lightning pace and it was super to watch.
Ben O’Carroll, Brian Derwin and Conor Hand were especially prominent as the Roscommon champions pulled away. By half-time it was St Brigid’s 1-12 Ballina 2-1. Indeed it could have been even more as Brigid’s kicked a number of bad wides in that third quarter.
One thing that the St Brigid’s team management is likely to be concerned about is that they conceded soft goals. The third Ballina goal arrived four minutes into the second half when Mike Murray and Sam Callinan set up Ben Thornton to shoot to the net.
St Brigid’s dusted themselves down and continued to dominate. By the 48th minute they led by ten points, 1-18 to 3-2. In fairness to Ballina they stuck to their task and in the final quarter they outscored Brigid’s by 0-6 to 0-3. Of course the outcome of the game had been decided long before then.
Brigid’s emptied their bench in the final quarter and Charlie O’Carroll and Ronan Stack both got on the scoresheet for the Roscommon champions before referee Barry Judge brought proceedings to a halt after four minutes of injury-time.
It was a superb display from St Brigid’s, but they will know that much stiffer tests lie ahead. But on this evidence it will take a very good team to beat them if they can perform like this.
Action from last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final in which St Brigid’s defeated Ballina Stephenites by 1-21 to 3-8 (at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park). Ben O’Carroll protects possession when challenged by Sam Callinan.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Action from last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final in which St Brigid’s defeated Ballina Stephenites by 1-21 to 3-8 (at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park). Senan Kilbride fends off the challenge of Sean Regan. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
‘Still room for improvement’
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St Brigid’s team manager Anthony Cunningham was a very happy man when he spoke to the Roscommon People after the game.
“There were some brilliant passages of play from us, but there are loads of areas we can improve on for the final.”
Anthony said that while the concession of the three goals was a worry, it was a super display from his charges.
“You’d always be disappointed to concede three goals. We’ll look at that and we’ll have to be better in that regard the next day. But you’d have to acknowledge that some of the play from the guys was outstanding. I felt we really kicked on from the two great matches against Pearses.”
Anthony then looked ahead to the upcoming Connacht final clash with Maigh Cuillin.
“For us, we’re delighted to be coming back here to the Hyde for a final. You can’t beat matches. At this time of year, conditions are tough. It’s hard to train.
“Maigh Cuillin are a formidable side. They’ve been brilliant over the last number of years, so we’ll have to be as sharp and generally better than we were today” he concluded.
‘It didn’t feel like a comfortable win’
One of the outstanding St Brigid’s performances on the day was that of team captain Paul McGrath. He said after the game that although they won easily it never felt that way.
“It didn’t feel like a comfortable win. They’re a dangerous team. We always felt they could come back. They did their best at the end but thankfully we held out. We’ll have to look at the source of those three goals and try and clean that up for the final.
“I thought we were really good at times. When we won the breaks, we just broke off them. The subs coming in were class, which was a huge boost.”
Paul says that once St Brigid’s got out of Roscommon they felt that they could open up a bit more.
“Pearses would have said the same thing last year, that when you get out of Roscommon, you play teams that you don’t really know, and they don’t know you. It’s really open, and you can go out there and express yourself a bit more.”
The last word he had was on the upcoming Connacht final.
“Maigh Cuillin are a serious outfit. We know that. That will be another massive challenge. Still, we’re really looking forward to it” he concluded.
Stat Attack
Red cards: 0
Black cards: 0
Yellow cards: St Brigid’s 0; Ballina 2 (Conor McStay, Dylan Thornton) Wides: St Brigid’s 10 (7, first half); Ballina 6 (2, first half)
Attendance: Approx. 2,000
Man of the Match: Ruaidhrí Fallon (St Brigid’s
to set up final date
From a defensive perspective, the concession of those three goals will be worry, but on the positive side Ruaidhrí Fallon, Brian Stack and Paul McGrath were outstanding in the half-back line. In the middle of the park, Eddie Nolan and Shane Cunnane had their best outing for some time. Up front, Ben O’Carroll, Brian Derwin and Conor Hand stood out, but every Brigid’s attacker contributed to this performance, with subs Charlie O’Carroll and Ronan Stack also getting in on the scoring act.
For Ballina, who were well beaten on the day, Sam Callinan, Mike Murray, Frank Irwin and Evan Regan had their moments but they never really looked like they could win this match after their positive start was surpassed by the Brigid’s’ response.
*The AIB Connacht Club SFC final will take place on Sunday week in King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park between St Brigid’s and the Galway champions Maigh Cuillin, who easily defeated Leitrim Gaels in the other semi-final last Sunday. St Brigid’s: Conor Carroll; Rúairí Smith, Séan Trundle, Robbie Dolan; Ruaidhrí Fallon (0-4, 1 2p), Brian Stack, Paul McGrath (0-2); Shane Cunnane (0-2), Eddie Nolan; Bobby Nugent (0-2, 1 free), Ciarán Sugrue (0-2), Conor Hand (0-1); Senan Kilbride (1-0), Ben O’Carroll (0-3, 1 free), Brian Derwin (0-2). Subs: Eoghan Derwin for B Derwin (42), Charlie O’Carroll (0-2) for Nugent (42), Ronan Stack (0-1) for Smith (46), Mark Daly for Cunnane (51), Eoin Sheehy for B O’Carroll (56).
Ballina Stephenites: David Clarke; Liam Golden, Luke Jordan, Ciaran Boland; Sam Callinan (0-1), Sean Regan, David Tighe; Mike Murray (0-3, 1 2p), Frank Irwin (0-1); Dylan Thornton (1-0), Pauric O’Hora, Niall Feeney; Evan Regan (1-3, 2 frees), Luke Doherty, Conor McStay. Subs: Ben Thornton (1-0) for Boland (30), Ciaran Treacy for Tighe (47), Luke Feeney for N Feeney (59). Referee: B Judge (Sligo).
Action from last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final in which St Brigid’s defeated Ballina Stephenites by 1-21 to 3-8 (at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park). Player of the match Ruaidhrí Fallon assesses his options.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Anthony Cunningham and members of his backroom team heading into the dressing room at half-time during last Sunday’s Connacht Club SFC semi-final at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
