Roscommon People - 27 August 2026 by RossiePeople

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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RitaOates

to decide to use my art to make greeting cards, so people could use them to tell others that they were valued and important to them.

LIAM DONOHUE DUNNE in conversation with with acclaimed local artist Describe your childhood in three words… Eventful, creative and unusual.

walk in New York or London and see people wearing their jerseys. It gives people a sense of identity.

What makes you happy? Doing art. I love doing art; it brings me to a quiet place inside myself. But it would be with my children and my grandchildren that I would be at my happiest.

An alien arrives from space. Describe Roscommon to them in three words… Faith, rural and home.

Favourite social media app and why? Instagram, because it’s the only one I really know well, and I suppose I have to use it for my business. As for the others, I don’t want to get dragged down any more black holes than Instagram! What is your favourite sport? Probably GAA, particularly because of all the movement. It’s so exciting. I can’t understand why people love soccer – there’s no excitement, not like hurling or football. It has also done an awful lot for my family when they’ve been abroad. There’s such a community around it and a community space. I love the fact that you can

Cost is no issue… where would you like to holiday for a fortnight? Well, if cost is no issue, I’d like to take a trip along the whole Wild Atlantic Way, top to bottom. I’d stay in nice hotels, enjoy nice food and be with all my family, my children and grandchildren, and really experience and appreciate the Wild Atlantic Way. Three people (living or historical) you’d invite to a dinner party? Nelson Mandela, John Hume and Mary Robinson. A song, film or book that you will never forget? The ﬁlm The Color Purple, and also Mary Poppins. They’re at two different ends of the spectrum – one is so serious and one is so wonderful – but it’s funny,

Rita Oates

Listening, caring, being there for each other… they’re both about children and childhood and are quite similar in a lot of ways, yet one is so tragic and the other is so magical. Someone who has been a big influence on you? A teacher I had in school called Sister Veronica. She really affected my life. I felt she believed in me and saw whatever talents I had, and she gave me conﬁdence in them.

She greatly influenced my art too, because I wrote to her years later to thank her and tell her that she had influenced my whole life by believing in me. She wrote back saying that she had taught for 40 years and I was the first person who had told her that she had made a difference, and that one letter made her whole teaching career worthwhile. That interaction led me

You have to spend one week on a desert island with an Irish celebrity. Who is it? I thought about this a lot, and my ﬁrst reaction was to pick someone to do with music, like Mary Black or Christy Moore. But I’ve been reading Land by Maggie O’Farrell, and it is beautiful. I’ll pick her because of an interview she gave where she spoke about turning down an OBE. She didn’t want ‘British Empire’ as part of her name and also referred to Charles Trevelyan, who was given a knighthood after describing the Famine as an act of God. In this day and age, you think of the doors an honour like that could open for somebody, but she refused it and showed such integrity and principles. So I’d pick her, even though I’d love a musician too. What skill/talent that you don’t feel you possess would you like to have? I’d love to be able to sing, or I’d love to be able to play an instrument, because I know music can bring such joy, passion and excitement to life.

What is a special memory? I’m American-born, and when I was nine we came home to Ireland. My father hadn’t been home in 23 years. Everyone on that plane was Irish, and most of them hadn’t been home in years either. The emotion of all those people looking out the window – they were in tears. Which famous person would you least like to be stuck in a lift with? Any of the Kardashians. Anyone really that’s like that... What is your best quality? I suppose something along the lines of determination, focus and patience. You need a lot of it in my ﬁeld of work – and you need a lot of it with six kids! A personal goal? My goal would be to keep my values and to face every situation with conﬁdence and integrity. What has life taught you? Life has taught me how important it is to listen to all sides – both to understand everyone else’s point of view and to follow my own instincts.

It’s been a GOOD week for… Galway train passengers, who can once again enjoy the almost-forgotten luxury of buying tea, coffee and snacks as the catering trolley returned to Dublin–Galway services on Friday. One Kerry lotto-player, with a EuroMillions ticket bought in Killarney winning €1,005,00 during last Friday’s draw.

It’s been a BAD week for… Electric Picnic campers, with forecasts pointing towards rain and possible thunderstorms for the Stradbally weekend. Dolly Parton fans, as the legendary 80-year-old singer passed away this week, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy including a beloved music career spanning decades, and a number of philanthropic efforts including the Imagination Library, which gifted hundreds of millions of books to children. PIC OF THE WEEK: Fiadh Higgins, Sadie Jordan, Rebecca Doherty, Aoife Doherty and Zoe Doherty pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College Photo: Michael Finan

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Charity match raises €15,197 for Mayo-Roscommon Hospice A charity football match held in memory of the late Colm Doyle has raised €15,197.46 for the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation. Colm, a keen footballer, passed away at Roscommon Hospice in November 2025 at the age of 40. Following his passing, his friends from football, Sean Mangan and Brian O’Neill, approached Colm’s father, Gerry Doyle, with the idea of organising a charity match in his memory. The fundraiser took place at Genex FC on May 9th, followed by a function and raffle at The Mill Bar, where music was provided by Paddy Mullane.

All proceeds from the event were donated to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, with the funds recently presented to Roscommon Hospice. The Doyle family said they were deeply grateful to everyone who supported the fundraiser. “Colm played a lot of football, so after his passing his friends Sean Mangan and Brian O’Neill suggested to Colm’s father, Gerry, that they organise a charity football match in his memory. “The family were delighted for this to take place, and it was decided to also hold a function and raffle afterwards in The Mill Bar, with all funds raised going to Mayo

Roscommon Hospice. “We will never be able to thank everyone enough who contributed in any way to the amazing success of both the football match and the evening event.” Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has provided palliative care services to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across Mayo and Roscommon for more than 30 years. Its palliative care teams have supported more than 25,000 patients and their families to date. Both Mayo Hospice and Roscommon Hospice were developed through fundraising, at a combined cost of €15.3 million.

Pictured at the cheque presentation at Roscommon Hospice are (l-r): Brian O’Neill, Martina Jennings, Gerry Doyle and Sean Mangan.

River Jiggy cleaning works continue Cleaning works are continuing along the River Jiggy in areas surrounding Roscommon town as part of efforts to reduce flood risk. The works involve removing potential obstructions from the river, including fallen trees, plastic and other debris which could restrict water flow. Local councillor Marty McDermott welcomed the continuation of the programme, saying the maintenance was important for the protection of Roscommon town and surrounding lands.

“These works are so important in relation to flood prevention to protect our beautiful town and surrounding lands,” he said. Cllr McDermott said he had raised the issue since his election in 2019, recalling the flooding experienced in Roscommon town in 2011 and the potential impact of flooding on businesses and residents. He also thanked Roscommon County Council for supporting the works and praised Neary Construction for their work on the river. Minnie Mouse with Indie and Nicola Lyster at the Athleague Festival Family Fun Day last Sunday. Photo: Michael Finan

Siobhan Ryan, Étáin Ryan, Audray Keane, Elish Keogh and Mia Keogh pictured at the Athleague Festival Family Fun Day. Photo: Michael Finan

Vivienne David and Méabh Mannion pictured enjoying the Family Fun Day as part of the 2026 Athleague Festival. Photo: Michael Finan

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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The late Gerry Rushe truly ‘seized the day’

 PAUL HEALY

The term ‘larger than life’ could have been invented for Gerry Rushe. The gregarious, charismatic Galway-mad Mountbellew man was a force of nature. A natural ‘people person’, he formed friendships effortlessly (and extensively), moving with his distinctive ‘joie de vivre’ through agricultural,

community and sporting circles. Over many decades, he built a tapestry of friendships across the west of Ireland and way beyond it too. The untimely passing of Gerry Rushe (73) last Sunday cast a pall of sadness over the world of Galway GAA. While he loved many sports, Gerry is being rightly remembered this week as a Galway GAA ‘superfan’. He simply loved following the footballers and hurlers of his native county, the success of Galway teams at provincial and particularly All-Ireland level bringing him great joy. His conviviality on the occasion of big games was legendary. I met him ﬁrst in or around 1990, when Gerry and friends from the Mountbellew area would call into the Lyons’ Den pub (and other establishments) in Roscommon Town on the occasion of big Connacht Championship games at Dr Hyde Park. It was immediately obvious that this man was a great character, and an infectiously enthusiastic sports fan. What’s more, he didn’t just talk the talk; he walked the walk, in that he followed not just Galway, but also Irish teams on their adventures abroad.

This included attending World Cups during the Jack Charlton era, other international matches (whether in Dublin or abroad), not to mention travelling to Aintree, Cheltenham and elsewhere to indulge his love of horse racing – particularly when it involved local participation (as, memorably, it sometimes did). I became friendly with Gerry, which was easy to do, as he had the gift of making people smile. A great wit, Gerry was a raconteur with an apparently neverending treasure trove of stories to share. While he was often the centre of attention in company, he was also adept at having a quiet word with people, offering a helping hand, showing his natural empathy, kindness and generosity of spirit. He took a genuine interest in people, and that is a great quality. For many years, Gerry worked with the Department of Agriculture, in which capacity he also made lifelong friendships. In Mountbellew, he was always supportive of positive community events. Tributes this week noted that his likes will never be seen again in that region. In a statement posted on Facebook, his local GAA club said: “Everybody at Mountbellew/Moylough GAA is deeply saddened by the passing of Gerry Rushe, one of our ﬁnest sons, one of our greatest supporters, and without doubt one of the greatest

characters ever to walk among us”. Gerry Rushe, of Tuam Road, Mountbellew, County Galway, died peacefully on Sunday last, August 23rd in the care of the nursing staff of St Joseph’s Ward, University Hospital Galway, surrounded by his loving family, after a short illness. He is mourned by his wife Carmel, brothers Seamus, Frank, PJ and sister Marion, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, neighbours and large circle of friends. He was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Aggie Rushe, parents-in-law Maureen and Michael Lally, niece Frances Rushe and brother-inlaw TJ Lally. Following reposal on Tuesday, Removal took place to St Mary’s Church, Mountbellew. Funeral Mass on Wednesday was followed by burial in the New Cemetery, Tuam Road, Mountbellew. I extend sincere sympathies to Carmel and the entire family. A devoted husband, sports fan par excellence, proud community man and largerthan-life character, Gerry Rushe was a one-off. A man of great personality who had that special gift for forming friendships, he lived life by the Latin maxim, Carpe Diem (‘Seize the day’). What days he had, and what memories he leaves. Rest in peace, Gerry.

newsbriefs Roscommon Active Retirement Active Retirement Roscommon Town resumes on Tuesday 8th September at 2.30 pm in the Hyde Centre, Athlone Road, Roscommon. All are welcome.

Rahara Graveyard Committee The Rahara Graveyard Committee is very grateful to all those who contributed so generously to the collection held at Cemetery Sunday Mass on August 9th. The amount raised was €1,872. This money is used for the ongoing maintenance and enhancement works in the graveyard. The committee extends a thank you for everyone’s support.

Pride march held in Roscommon town A Pride march took place in Roscommon town on Saturday, with participants making their way through the town centre. Participants gathered at the Quad Youth Centre before the parade set off at 2.30 pm, travelling through the town to Loughnaneane Park. The event brought together gay and bisexual people, along with family members and friends. Joanna O’Reilly, who has worked with young people

in County Roscommon through Foróige and was involved in establishing the event locally, served as Grand Marshal for this year’s parade. The march formed part of a programme of events held in Roscommon during the week.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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43% rise in number of Funding allocated for planning children supported by work at Roscommon Courthouse National Childcare Scheme The number of children who benefited from a National Childcare Scheme (NCS) subsidy through providers in County Roscommon rose by almost 43 per cent between 2023 and 2025, according to figures supplied to the Dáil. Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said 2,522 unique children benefited in Roscommon in 2023. This increased to 3,090 in 2024 and 3,595 in 2025. The 2026 year-to-date figure stood at 3,242 on July 16th, already 90 per cent of the full 2025 total. Roscommon’s 2025 total was 61 per cent higher than Leitrim’s 2,237 and 67 per cent above Longford’s 2,149. Galway recorded 17,187, almost five times the Roscommon figure.

Nationally, the number increased from 182,523 in 2023 to 246,998 in 2025, a rise of just over 35 per cent. Roscommon’s increase was therefore about seven percentage points higher than the national rate. The ﬁgures were provided in a written answer to Clare TD Cathal Crowe and relate to the county in which the childcare provider is based. Ms Foley said the 2026 total was expected to rise before the end of the year. The answer also noted that county ﬁgures may not add precisely to the national total because a child can have claims with providers in more than one county. Such children are counted once in the overall total.

Roscommon Garda unit involved in drugs seizures worth over €2m The Roscommon Garda Drug Unit was involved in a multi-agency operation which seized more than €2m worth of controlled drugs during July, according to a parliamentary exchange. Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan said personnel from the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, Revenue, and drug units based in Roscommon, Longford, Mayo, Kildare, and Drogheda participated. In a written answer to Louth Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú on July 28th, O’Callaghan said a separate Garda and Revenue operation

at Dublin Port had resulted in the seizure of cannabis estimated at €7.84m. The combined estimated value of drugs seized in the two operations exceeded €9.84m. O’Callaghan said An Garda Síochána continued to implement Operation Tara, its enhanced national anti-drugs strategy. The operation targets drug trafﬁcking networks at international, national, and local level, including the importation, distribution, cultivation, production, sale, and supply of controlled drugs. The minister said the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau led efforts

against drug trafﬁcking, with inter-agency and international co-operation remaining central to the response. O’Callaghan also said drug-related intimidation remained a high priority. Garda inspectors are available nationwide through the Drugs Related Intimidation Reporting Programme to assist victims. *If you or anyone you know is being intimidated or subjected to violence due to drug activities, you can call Castlerea Garda Station on 094 9621630 and ask to speak to the local Detective Inspector responsible for the programme.

Man in his 30s dies in Roscommon town Gardaí were alerted to the sudden death of a man in his 30s at a residence in Roscommon town on Sunday, August 23rd. The Coroner has been notiﬁed and the man’s body was removed to Roscommon mortuary, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course. A ﬁle will be prepared for the Coroner.

Funding has been allocated to progress preparatory and planning work for the redevelopment of Roscommon Courthouse. The Courts Service has conﬁrmed that funding is in place for work necessary to inform the business case for the future development of the historic courthouse, although a ﬁgure for the allocation has not been published. The courthouse in Roscommon town has been closed since December 2022 due to health and safety concerns, with court sittings subsequently moved to temporary accommodation at the former Fairyland Ballroom on Racecourse Road.

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The temporary facility has attracted criticism over issues including its single courtroom, limited parking and facilities for court users. The need for improved courthouse facilities in Roscommon has been included in the National Development Plan, and the Courts Service has said it remains committed to the future development of the courthouse. The latest funding represents an initial step towards establishing the scope and cost of a potential refurbishment.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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froam

DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE A column by Emma Healy

Roscommon People contributor Emma Healy considers serious topics affecting life on a micro and macro level through analogy to help explore things from a different perspective

The season when everyone starts again EMMA HEALY on why September is the real turn of the year – and why the instinct never leaves you Every August, without fail, I end up buying a notebook I don’t strictly need. There’s nothing wrong with the ones I already have. But a new one turns up anyway — decent paper, good weight in the hand, the kind you’d only buy if some part of you believed September was a genuine chance to start over. It’s not really about the notebook. January gets the fireworks, the countdown, the resolutions that don’t survive the third week. But if you want to know when the year actually turns over for most people, it’s not the first of January. It’s the last week of August, when the light changes, the evenings start closing in earlier, and somewhere a school uniform is being tried on for size. That’s when the year really begins again. Schools reopen. Clubs restart training. GAA fixtures shift into a different gear. Work calendars – quiet for the summer – suddenly fill up with meetings nobody wanted. People who haven’t thought about routine since June start talking about routine again, usually while buying new runners. There’s a reason for that “back to school” feeling refusing to fully leave you, even decades after you last owned a schoolbag: your body still remembers September as the month things start. We measure our years in calendars, but we live them in seasons and routines — and a seasonal reset, it turns out, is a genuinely useful thing. January asks you to change everything at once, cold turkey, in the bleakest weeks of the year, powered by nothing but willpower and a gym membership. September is gentler and cleverer. It doesn’t ask you to reinvent yourself. It just nudges you back into a shape you already know — earlier nights, some kind of structure, a routine that was there all along and just needed the season to bring it back. There’s also a decent logical case that September is the true new year, and January is really just the imposter with better PR. The

Irish state’s own ﬁnancial year only became the calendar year in 2001 — before that, like the UK, it ran April to April. Even now, the Budget itself — the government’s planning document for the year ahead — is delivered in October, not January. The academic year, which shapes a child’s life for years between primary and secondary school, and quietly goes on shaping the adults they become, has always run September to June. Go back further again and you’re into harvest time, and into Samhain — the old Irish new year, its roots at Rathcroghan and the Cave of the Cats not far up the road in Tulsk, signifying a time when the harvest was in and one turn of the year gave way to the next. Long before anyone in Ireland had heard of January the 1st, the year was already understood to turn with the seasons, not the calendar. January the 1st only became the ﬁxed start of the year because Julius Caesar decided as much, over two thousand years ago, and various countries took their own time adopting it — England, for one, didn’t move its new year to January until 1752. It’s a fairly arbitrary line, in other words, and it doesn’t correspond to anything happening in the natural world, or in most people’s actual working lives. September does. That’s presumably why the “back to school” feeling never quite goes away — it’s not nostalgia so much as your body correctly identifying the real turn of the year.

What the ordinary jobs teach you If September is the season of starting again, it’s worth remembering that an awful lot of people are starting their working lives around now too — not careers in the LinkedIn, five-year-plan sense, but actual jobs. Behind a till. Behind a counter. Waiting tables, driving a van, stacking shelves, answering phones, cleaning up after other people at the end of a long shift. These jobs don’t get written about much, because they don’t photograph as well as the notebook does. But they teach things that no amount of career planning does. They teach you to show up on time even when you don’t feel like it, because someone is relying on you to be there. They teach you how to deal with people who are having a bad day and aren’t especially interested in being polite about it. They teach you the shape of a community — who comes in every Tuesday, who’s regular as clockwork, who needs a bit of patience today, who just wants to be served quickly and left alone. There’s a real sort of education in a quiet Tuesday afternoon behind a counter, watching the same faces come and go, learning who takes their tea a certain way or who’s had a hard week without a word being said about it. Nobody puts “learned to read a room” on a CV, but it’s arguably more useful than half of what does end up there. A person who’s worked a counter or a till knows how to de-escalate an awkward complaint without losing their temper, how to keep going through a shift that’s dragging, how to be pleasant to someone who isn’t being pleasant back. That’s not a soft skill picked up in a seminar. It’s the kind of thing you only really learn by doing it, badly at first, for not very much money, usually as a teenager or in your twenties, often in that first September job that comes with starting college or leaving school. Starting again doesn’t announce itself Broaden it out further and September is full of quiet beginnings that don’t look like much from the inside. A four-year-old starting preschool for the first time, unaware that this is, in its own small way, one of the bigger days of their life

so far. A Leaving Cert student packing the car and heading off to college in another county, already half-homesick before the car’s out of the driveway. Sports seasons shifting up a gear, club training resuming on wet evenings that will get wetter before they get lighter again. And it’s not just individuals. Businesses start planning for Christmas around now, which feels absurd in late August and completely sensible by October. Committees reconvene after the summer, half-heartedly discussing the same three items as last September. County councils and local groups get back into their autumn rhythm. Government itself does the same thing — the Dáil returns after the summer recess and the whole apparatus of the state quietly resets into a new working year. A news publication — this one included — starts planning the autumn’s stories. None of it feels like a fresh start while you’re in it. That’s the thing about new beginnings — they rarely announce themselves with ﬁreworks. They look like a new copybook, a changed bus timetable, a slightly earlier alarm. You don’t usually notice you’re starting again until you’re well into it, notebook half full, routine already back under your feet. Which might be exactly why September works so much better than January. Nobody’s watching. Nobody’s counting down. You just quietly begin.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Tel. 116 123 Athlone & Midlands

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€28m Beef Welfare Scheme opens On-board catering to Roscommon suckler farmers returns to GalwaySuckler farmers across County Roscommon are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 Beef Welfare Scheme, with applications now being invited under the €28 million programme. The scheme, announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon, provides payments of up to €75 per eligible calf where farmers complete all of the required and optional actions. Payments can be claimed on a maximum of 45 calves, giving participating farmers the potential to receive up to €3,375. Eligible calves must have been born on the applicant’s holding between July 1st, 2025 and June 30th, 2026. The main element of the scheme is a mandatory meal-feeding action aimed at supporting animal welfare and performance around the weaning period. Farmers who complete this requirement will receive

€35 per eligible calf. Two further actions are optional. Farmers who undertake the vaccination action can receive up to €15 per calf, while a further €25 per calf is available for completing either faecal testing or forage testing. A new addition for 2026 allows farmers participating in the vaccination measure to vaccinate eligible animals against bluetongue virus serotype 3, or BTV-3, which is currently circulating. Teagasc has reminded farmers taking part in the scheme of the importance of retaining the relevant documentation. Receipts for meal purchased for the mandatory feeding measure should be kept, along with receipts relating to vaccinations and testing where the optional measures are selected. Farmers must also maintain the required records and make them available to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the

Marine if requested. The scheme follows a high level of participation in 2025. More than €28 million in payments began issuing last December to 24,214 farmers, covering almost 451,000 calves nationally. The Beef Welfare Scheme is aimed at improving animal health and husbandry on suckler farms while also supporting the economic efficiency of the sector. Applications for the 2026 scheme must be submitted online through the MyAgFood portal by 5pm on Wednesday, September 23rd. There will be no provision for late applications, with the closing date intended to allow sufficient time for applications to be validated and payments processed before the end of the year. Farmers who require assistance with their application can also contact their local Teagasc office.

Dublin trains

An appeal over plans for a new Lidl supermarket in Monksland is due to be decided by An Coimisiún Pleanála by December 15th. Lidl Ireland lodged an appeal on August 12th against Roscommon County Council’s decision to refuse planning permission for the proposed development. The application relates to a 1.21-hectare site on the L-7596-0 in Monksland, immediately south of the Joe Duffy car

showroom. Plans include a singlestorey Lidl food store with a gross ﬂoor area of 2,358 square metres, including an off-licence sales area. The proposed development also includes a separate 145.8 square metre café/restaurant with sheltered outdoor seating and a 145.4 square metre retail unit. Other elements include car parking, electric vehicle charging facilities, cycle stands, landscaping, a taxi set-down area,

roof-mounted solar panels and a footpath and cycle path along the western boundary of the site. Roscommon County Council refused permission on July 17th. The case is now before An Coimisiún Pleanála, where Lidl Ireland is listed as a ﬁrst-party appellant. Mark Francis and Samuel Norris are also listed as active thirdparty appellants. A decision on the case is currently due by December 15th.

walk, jog or run 5K in Castlerea this October in support of Croí Heart & Stroke Charity. The Croí Night Run will take place on Friday, October 9th, with participants meeting at Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea. The family-friendly event is open to people of all ages and ﬁtness levels and is not chip timed, with the emphasis on participation, exercise and fundraising. Funds raised will sup-

An on-board catering service has returned to selected Galway-Dublin trains as part of a new six-month pilot by Iarnród Éireann. The trolley service began on Monday, August 24th, and is operating on three services in each direction daily on the Dublin Heuston-Galway route, which serves Athlone. The pilot is being operated by Irish company Sambos.ie on a commercial basis, without Public Service Obligation funding, and will be used to assess the viability of providing catering more widely across the Intercity network. From Monday to Saturday, trolley services are being provided on the 7.35 am, 9.25 am and 11.30 am departures from Heuston, and the 11.05 am, 1.05 pm and 3.05 pm departures from Galway. The 7.35 am Heuston service operates on Fridays only, with a change at Athlone. Three services in each direction are also covered on Sundays. Card payment only is accepted on the pilot trolley services. On-board catering in recent years had been limited to the Dublin-Cork and Dublin-Belfast routes. Iarnród Éireann said the pilot could be extended to additional services or routes during the six-month period.

Croí Night Run coming Lidl appeal over Monksland store to Castlerea People in Roscommon port Croí’s work in heart due for decision by December are being invited to and stroke prevention, health checks, education, rehabilitation and support for patients and families. Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí, said the Night Run was “a wonderful example of the power of community”, adding that every participant and volunteer helps support people affected by heart disease and stroke. Further information and registration are available at www.croinightrun.ie.

newsbriefs Samaritans to hold volunteer information meetings Athlone and Midland Samaritans will hold information meetings on Sunday, August 30th at 11 am and Tuesday, September 1st at 7 pm at their centre at 3 Court Devenish, Athlone. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer, or finding out more about the work of Samaritans, is welcome to attend. For further information, call or text John on 087 717 6168 or email athlone.branchrecruitment@ samaritans.org. Samaritans provides 24-hour emotional support on Freephone 116 123.

Roscommon SPCA to hold annual fundraising collections Roscommon SPCA will hold its annual fundraising street collection at various locations throughout Roscommon town on Friday, August 28th. The organisation will also hold three church gate collections over the weekend of August 29th and 30th. Roscommon SPCA has thanked the public for its continued assistance and support.

ICA Roscommon Town Guild meeting The ICA Roscommon Town Guild will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 1st, in Vita House at 7.30 pm. New members are very welcome to attend.

Family Tree Healing Mass in Curraghboy A Special Family Tree Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, on Monday, September 7th, commencing at 8 pm. Fr John Walsh will be the celebrant. Confessions will be available from 6.30 pm, with the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet recited at 7.30 pm. Fr John will bless holy water and religious items before Mass. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and individual blessings for healing will take place afterwards. Refreshments will also be served. All are welcome to attend. The Eircode for the Prayer Centre is N37 W704.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Working to make Roscommon your county of choice COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL SECTION 38 OF THE ROAD TRAFFIC ACT 1994 (AS AMENDED) PUBLIC NOTICE The following works will be undertaken under Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 (as amended). Under Section 38 of the 1994 Road Traffic Act, a Road Authority may in the interest of the safety and convenience of road users provide such traffic calming measures as it considers desirable in respect of a public road in its charge. Works proposals under Section 38 may be carried out by a Roads Authority with the approval of the Chief Executive. This is a non-statutory consultation to invite submissions from the public to inform the decision making of the Chief Executive. The purpose of this non-statutory consultation is to provide notice of Roscommon County Council’s intention to undertake a Bus Stop Enhancement Project on the R325 at Loughglinn Townland, Loughglynn, Co Roscommon. Main Street, Loughglynn Bus Stops Enhancement Project, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon The aim of this project is the provision of enhanced bus stop facilities on Main Street, Loughglynn. The measures aim to support sustainable travel through improved safety, comfort, and accessibility for public bus users. The project involves: • Site clearance works • Construction of a bus stop hardstand with footway build-out and bus shelter and the provision of bus cage road markings on the northern side of the R325 • Construction of a bus stop hardstand with bus shelter and the provision of bus cage road markings on the southern side of the R325 • Other ancillary works including road drainage An Appropriate Assessment screening report and Environmental Impact Assessment screening report in respect of the development have been carried out and are available for inspection. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required, and that the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment. In accordance with Article 120 (3), as amended by S.I. No. 296 of 2018, a person may, within four weeks beginning on the date of the publication of this notice apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. Such a submission should be addressed to the Secretary, An Bord Pleanála, 64, Marlborough Street, Dublin, 1. Plans and Particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased (at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy) for a period of four weeks from the 28th August 2026 during public opening hours at the offices of Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98. Plans and particulars may also be viewed online on the Roscommon County Council’s Public Consultation Portal at Home | Roscommon County Council’s Consultation Portal A submission or observation in relation to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated may be made before 24th September 2026 via the Council’s Public Consultation Portal or alternatively in writing or email marked “Main Street, Loughglynn Bus Stops Enhancement Project” and submitted to: Roscommon County Council, Roads and Transportation Department, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98 or email roads@roscommoncoco.ie

Voter.ie An Bealach Éasca chun Do Ghuth a Dhaingniú Clár Toghthóirí Chomhairle Contae Ros Comáin Déan iarratas ar líne ag www.voter.ie Má tá tú cláraithe le vótáil cheana féin, seiceáil go bhfuil do shonraí, lena n-áirítear Dáta Breithe, Eircode, Uimhir Theagmhála agus UPSP, cothrom le dáta. Tá sé seo chun a chinntiú go bhfuil Clár Toghthóirí cruinn ann. Is ortsa atá an fhreagracht a chinntiú go bhfuil do shonraí cothrom le dáta agus ceart Téigh i dteagmháil lenár n-oifig ar: 090 663 7147 franchise@roscommoncoco.ie

Signed: Mark Keaveney Director of Services Economic, Planning and Physical Development Date of Notice: 28th August 2026

Do you know? The public can stay informed about road closures and roadworks within County Roscommon with MapAlerter, a free service delivering alerts straight to your phone or email. To register for free SMS and email alerts use the link https://www.mapalerter.ie/signup

An raibh a fhios agat? Is féidir leis an bpobal fanacht ar an eolas faoi dhúnadh bóithre agus faoi oibreacha bóthair i gContae Ros Comáin le MapAlerter, seirbhís saor in aisce a sheachadann foláirimh díreach chuig do ghuthán nó chuig do ríomhphost. Chun clárú le haghaidh foláirimh SMS agus ríomhphoist saor in aisce, bain úsáid as an nasc seo: https://www.mapalerter.ie/signup

OPENING HOURS IN ÁRAS AN CHONTAE: MOTOR TAX OFFICE 9.30am to 1.00pm only Monday to Friday. ALL OTHER SERVICES are open 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday. PHONE SERVICES AVAILABLE from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

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

@RoscommonCountyCouncil @roscommoncoco

www.roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

HOUSEHOLDERS AND BUSINESSES: KNOW YOUR OBLIGATIONS UNDER ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL WASTE PRESENTATION BYE-LAWS 2019

ARE YOU WASTE

COMPLIANT? COMPLIANT?

AVOID A CE TYANOTI L A N ID E P O D AV E €75 FIXE YENOTIC TT LS GNW AA N I E Y P A T D S E YIX €75BF NTWASTE IAG YLIN AP OTM BYCS NT COMPLIA

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH THESE BYE-LAWS?

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO DO?

HAVE A CONTRACT IN PLACE WITH AN

SEGREGATE YOUR WASTE CORRECTLY

AND

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH THESE BYE-LAWS?

HAVE A CONTRACT INWASTE PLACE WITH AN AUTHORISED COLLECTOR AUTHORISED WASTE COLLECTOR OR

DEMONSTRATE USEAN OF AUTHORISED AN AUTHORISED DEMONSTRATE USE OF WASTE FACILITY WASTE FACILITY

Find out Findmore: out more: www.roscommoncoco.ie www.roscommoncoco.ie www.mywaste.ie www.mywaste.ie

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO DO?

SEGREGATE YOUR WASTE CORRECTLY AND

KEEP THAT YOU AREARE DISPOSING OF YOUR KEEPPROOF PROOF THAT YOU DISPOSING OF YOUR WASTE IN A RESPONSIBLE AND LEGAL MANNER WASTE IN A RESPONSIBLE AND LEGAL MANNER

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

Church Street reopens as major public realm works continue across Roscommon town Church Street in Roscommon town has reopened following the completion of a major phase of public realm works, providing the first clear indication of the finished streetscape as an extensive programme of works continues across several other areas of the town. The newly completed street includes upgraded and widened footpaths, resurfacing and other public realm improvements, while attention has now moved to other sections of what is a substantial town-wide project. Works are currently taking place in a number of areas, including along the Circular Road/N61 and Athlone Road, with further works planned for Goff Street and Henry Street. The scale of the programme has inevitably caused disruption for businesses, motorists and pedestrians. Speaking to the Roscommon People, local traders reported difficulties around access, parking and footfall, although there was also a frequent acknowledgement that the finished improvements have the potential to benefit the town. Traders feel impact of works Miranda Connolly of Jorena Health & Gift Shop said the

‘The Bee Lane’ on Allée de Chartrettes, one of Roscommon town’s public realm features.

had affected the business. “From the time the roadwork started, turnover dropped,” he said. “Not dramatically, but it did drop. We could notice the drop in footfall.” At the time he spoke to the Roscommon People, Mr Molloy said the absence of final road markings in the area was creating confusion for some motorists. He stressed, however, that he is supportive of efforts to improve Roscommon town. “I’d love to see the town improve,” he said, adding that he believed the previous enhancement of the Square had helped modernise the town. His principal concern is ensuring that accessibility and parking remain central to future development, particularly in a rural town where many customers continue to depend on their cars.

The covered civic space at Roscommon Market Square, completed as part of the town-centre regeneration works and unveiled in 2024. The structure was designed by Dublin-based GKMP Architects.

construction period had affected her business significantly. Many of her customers are older, she explained, and some have found parking further away from the shop difficult. “Regular customers are coming in and saying, ‘I was trying to get in for a few days, but I just couldn’t park’,” she said. She also highlighted the impact of noise and dust during construction and said that, for some older customers, simply parking in one of the larger car parks and walking to their destination was not always a straightforward alternative. The disruption, however, is only one side of her experience. With the work on Church Street now completed, Miranda said she was happy with the finished result. Declan Molloy of Molloy’s Bakery said it was principally the work taking place immediately outside his own premises that

“They don’t want cars on our streets,” he said, adding that he was unsure whether that policy direction was coming from local or central government. “I definitely don’t agree with that in rural Ireland.” He said accessibility for older people and the continued availability of convenient parking should remain an important consideration as the town develops. Mr Molloy described Roscommon’s continued availability of free parking as a major advantage and said he hoped this would be retained. “We’ve had an awful lot of people come into the town over the last number of years based on the quality of the shops, the small businesses that are in the town,” he said. “The free parking is a huge, huge benefit.” Mixed views from the public Members of the public who spoke anonymously to the Roscommon

People also expressed differing views. One woman said she was unhappy with the amount of construction taking place simultaneously around the town and described driving and finding convenient parking as difficult. She said she often has to park further away and walk to her destination. Walking itself, however, was not a problem for her. “I like walking,” she said, although she added that it was understandably less appealing in bad weather. She also saw some merit in the new cycling infrastructure being introduced, particularly if it is properly used, and suggested it may appeal particularly to younger people. Another person took a more positive view of the timing of the works. While acknowledging that nobody particularly enjoys roadworks, he said the summer months were preferable to carrying out major construction approaching Christmas or during poorer winter weather: “I think this is the best time of year to do them”. He also felt Roscommon remained relatively convenient for parking compared with some other towns, particularly because motorists can use the larger central car parks and walk a short distance to businesses. Their main concern related to the narrowing of some roads and junctions and how this could affect larger vehicles and future traffic movements. Council aiming to complete key streets before Christmas In correspondence with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Roscommon County Council outlined the planned sequencing of the Athlone Road and Goff Street works. The temporary road closure programme runs on a phased basis between July 27 and November 20. Athlone Road has been allocated an estimated ten-week construction period, with the Athlone Road/Goff Street junction initially remaining open to normal two-way traffic on Goff Street. The Council says that from around early September, the junction is scheduled to close to allow the new junction works to begin. Lower Goff Street works are also due to commence during

this period. The intention is to have the Athlone Road section, including the Goff Street junction, substantially completed by early October, allowing two-way traffic to return to Athlone Road and Upper Goff Street. Lower Goff Street would then remain under construction into early November. The advertised closure period to November 20 incorporates an additional two-week allowance for unforeseen delays. According to the Council, deliberately overlapping the works on Athlone Road and Lower Goff Street is intended to reduce the overall duration of the programme and allow both key routes to reopen ahead of the Christmas shopping period. Works are then planned to move to Henry Street over the Christmas period, allowing normal traffic movements through the principal town-centre routes, while works on Upper Goff Street are proposed for early in the new year. Why are several areas being worked on at once? The number of simultaneous construction areas has been one of the issues raised locally. Roscommon County Council told the Chamber that having more than one active work area is necessary in order to maintain continuity for the different trades involved in the project. The Council said that they are aware of the importance of completing Athlone Road and Lower Goff Street ahead of the Christmas period and that the areas are to be resourced accordingly. The Council also acknowledged that the original timescale provided for the Church Street works proved overly optimistic and that issues encountered during construction extended the duration of that phase. It said the experience gained on Church Street has been taken into account in planning the programme for Athlone Road and Goff Street. The Council has also raised the issue of construction vehicles occupying public parking spaces. While some construction parking is required to maintain access to tools and equipment, the contractor has agreed to keep this to a minimum. The Council has further agreed to review the demarcation of time-limited parking in some areas following concerns raised by local businesses. It acknowledged that works of this nature result in unavoidable inconvenience and said they would continue to work with individual businesses in relation to practical matters including deliveries and access. With Church Street now reopened, traders and the wider public have an opportunity to see one completed part of what remains a considerable project across Roscommon town.

For businesses that have endured disruption during construction, the hope will be that the longer-term improvements justify the temporary difficulties. What is planned around Roscommon Town? The wider “Putting the Spokes Back in the Wheel” public realm project covers a substantial area of Roscommon town and is intended to improve streets, pedestrian connections, cycling facilities, parking and the overall town environment. Circular Road / Roscommon Arts Centre / Dunnes area The approved proposals include a new linear park and cycleways along the N61/Circular Road, running between the Lanesboro Street and Athlone Road roundabouts, together with additional pedestrian crossing points. The scheme also provides for the redevelopment of the parking area beside Roscommon Arts Centre and improved connections between this part of town and the historic centre. Dunnes Stores and Centre Point Retail Park form part of this wider Circular Road area, with the project designed to improve pedestrian and cycling connections between these major destinations and the town centre.

The ‘Poetry Laneway’ on Chapel Street in Roscommon town.

Athlone Road and Brogan’s Lane Public realm and cycling improvements are planned along Athlone Road and Brogan’s Lane, alongside road, footpath and parking works. Athlone Road is one of the principal areas currently under construction. Goff Street Public realm and cycling improvements are planned along Goff Street from Church Street to the N63/Circular Road junction. Lower Goff Street is due to be tackled alongside the latter part of the Athlone Road programme, with Upper Goff Street planned after Christmas. Church Street The Church Street section, running from the Goff Street junction towards Abbey Street, has now undergone its principal public realm upgrade and reopened to traffic. Henry Street Public realm improvements are also planned for Henry Street, with the current programme indicating that work will move into this area over the Christmas period. Chamber invites feedback from local businesses Businesses affected by the ongoing public realm works who wish to raise practical concerns, observations or issues relating to access, deliveries, parking or the operation of the works can contact Roscommon Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber will collate matters raised by local businesses and, where appropriate, bring them to the attention of Roscommon County Council and Coffey Construction. Email roscommonchamber@outlook.com or message Roscommon Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.

‘Held Together’, the sculpture on Market Square by Simon Carmen and Dr Helen Sharp.

Tesco connection Improved pedestrian connectivity is planned from the N61/ Circular Road through the Tesco car park towards Main Street, creating another link between the outer commercial areas and the town centre.

‘The Mosaic Laneway’, created by Chris Judge and Triskill Design.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

Almost one third of Roscommon planning applications ruled ‘invalid’ < EMMETT CORCORAN

Almost one in three planning applications made in Co Roscommon were declared invalid in 2023, placing the county among the highest in the State and well above the national average. Figures published by the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR), based on Department of Housing planning statistics, show that 31.6 per cent of applications in Roscommon were invalidated in 2023, compared with a national rate of 20.5 per cent. Roscommon’s rate was also considerably higher than in neighbouring counties. In 2023, 24.5 per cent of applications in Leitrim were declared invalid, compared with 22.7 per cent in Galway County, 21 per cent in Longford, and just 9.1 per cent in Mayo. An invalid application is not a planning refusal. It means an application has failed to meet preliminary statutory requirements, such as those relating to

documentation, public notices, drawings or other particulars, and is returned before its planning merits are considered. The disparity between Roscommon and the national average has persisted for a number of years. Roscommon’s invalidation rate stood at 23.9 per cent in 2019, 22.5 per cent in 2020, 26.2 per cent in 2021, 29.2 per cent in 2022, and 31.6 per cent in 2023. The corresponding national rates were 16.4 per cent, 17.1 per cent, 15 per cent, 17.5 per cent, and 20.5 per cent respectively. The OPR’s statutory review described Roscommon as one of the local authorities with the highest invalidation rates nationally. Across the five years from 2019 to 2023, the published figures show Roscommon’s rate ranged from 22.5 per cent to 31.6 per cent, compared with between 15 per cent and 20.5 per cent nationally, placing Roscommon among the authorities with the highest rates in the State. More recent figures presented

to Roscommon County Council in July 2024 indicated an improvement. The Chief Executive reported that the invalidation rate had fallen from 37 per cent to 21 per cent, compared with a national average of 18 per cent at that point. The Council also reported that 88 per cent of planning applications had been approved during the first six months of 2024. Figures for actual planning refusals present a less pronounced picture. In 2023, Roscommon County Council granted 88.1 per cent of applications on which it made a grant or refusal decision, compared with a national grant rate of 88.7 per cent. This equates to refusal rates of approximately 11.9 per cent in Roscommon and 11.3 per cent nationally. Roscommon’s refusal rate was 10.1 per cent in 2019, 13.4 per cent in 2020, 12.6 per cent in 2021, and 14.2 per cent in 2022, showing fluctuation rather than a consistent upward trend. The OPR said the main reason identified by the Council for re-

Applications open for Roscommon Heritage Research Bursary Roscommon County Council has opened applications for its 2026 Heritage Research Bursary. Two bursaries, worth up to €1,000 each, are available to support MA, MSc or PhD-level research involving a topic or site located in, or relevant to, County Roscommon.

The bursary aims to encourage and support research into the county’s heritage and is open to eligible postgraduate researchers. The closing date for applications is 5 pm on Friday, September 18th.

Members of Roscommon Town ICA pictured at their stand at the recent Roscommon Agricultural Show: Cathrina O’Brien, Martina Hanley, Helen Early, Majella Hunt, Margaret Tiernan and Phil Killilea.

fusals involving unserviced rural dwellings related to the safe treatment and disposal of wastewater and compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) code of practice. Rural settlement policy and the siting and design of houses were also cited. One-off housing nevertheless accounts for a significant proportion of residential development in Roscommon. The OPR found that more than half of residential units granted permission in the county during 2023 were one-off or single dwellings. Roscommon-Galway TD Dr Martin Daly raised the issue in a parliamentary question to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage on July 9th. Dr Daly sought the number of applications for one-off rural dwellings received by Roscommon and Galway County Councils between January 1st and July 1st 2026, together with the numbers granted and refused. As the Roscommon People went to publication, no reply to the question had been posted on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Roscommon-Athlone bus service for school and college students

CASEY’S, Roscommon

DEPARTS

at 08.00 hrs., Monday – Friday STOPPING AT

• BALLYMURRAY • KNOCKCROGHERY • LECARROW • KILTOOM • HODSON BAY Evening study catered for with departures from Athlone at 16.00 hrs. and 18.00 hrs. BUS SERVICE FOR ROSCOMMON TOWN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Starting in Curraghroe, Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Ballyleague and surrounding areas.

For further information please contact Pat Naughton on 087 4105449 or 090 66 61058 or Martin 087 9144445

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

From full Irish to ancient Ireland Our columnist Frank Brandon discovers a hidden gem close to home, recalls one of snooker’s great characters, and looks ahead to a fashionable night in Creggs. It’s a beautiful Sunday morning, and my daughter Lisa, along with my two grandchildren, Riley and Hayley, have arrived up from Castlebar, and we’ve decided to head up to the cafe in the rugby club to have the breakfast. For some reason, the two girls are picky enough about their breakfast at home, but to be fair to them, they both eat all round them up in the rugby club – and this day was no different. As always, my full Irish was top class, and when all was done, the children made a bee-line for the sensory/ playroom. The truth is that it is a magical place for them to spend some time; there are all kinds of activities for them to do there and I have to say it is a great addition to the local area. Anyway, we then headed out to the Green, where we kicked around a football for a while before we all headed back down home – by which time, after my full Irish and the exertions on the Green, I was almost ready to go back to bed! Sometime later, they headed back to Castlebar, and having resisted the temptation to have a lie down, that evening myself and my son Paul decided to go for a walk. For a change, we headed down to Stoneham’s Lough. Now, to my eternal shame, I have lived around here for a very long time and yet was unaware of the hidden gem that is the beautiful walk around Stoneham’s. The pathways have all been gravelled, there are seats dotted along the walks where you can rest yourself, and the silence and tranquillity of the forest was just so beautiful and peaceful. I thoroughly enjoyed it. On our way round, we met local historian Larry Kilcommons, who was there with his wife Eilish and other members of his family. One of the girls told us that they had come down to see the Stoneham Crannóg,

The catwalk comes to Creggs Out here in Creggs, Sheila Beirne tells me of a massive event that’s coming up in the school hall on Friday, October 2nd, when a fashion show will be taking place. Celia Holman-Lee, surely Ireland’s best known and respected stylist, and the Holman-Lee Agency will be there, and there will be a wonderful night’s fashion and modelling tips for you all from the expert herself. Now, you will know that I am a renowned fashion guru myself, so it will be no surprise that I am very aware of the Limerick lady Celia Holman-Lee, so it’s some coup for Sheila and the gang to have her come to Creggs. So put it in your diary – October 2nd in the school hall! There will be more details to follow, but tickets are already on sale in O’Roarke’s or by phoning Sheila on 087 8382944. There will be styles from loads of boutiques, along with an award winning milliner from the local area, and jewellery and accessories will also feature on the night. This promises to be one of the great occasions in the locality, so don’t miss it!

which was now visible due to the lowering of the water level, as a result of the long dry spell. I have to admit that I had forgotten what a crannóg was, but I did remember going with my wife Carol to see some many years ago down in Kerry, near Kenmare. Now those ones looked like little huts, built of brushwood, timber, and stone, and they reminded me a bit of the igloos you would see up in the Arctic Circle. However, crannógs can also be man-made little islands in the middle of lakes or rivers, with little huts on top to give people protection from both enemies and animals. And so, myself and Paul made a U-turn and headed over the bridge to the fishing area of the Lough, where there were a number of young people fishing, and sure enough the crannóg was visible in the middle of the lake. It was obviously a man made structure, but bushes and trees had grown over it so if there were a house or a hut on it, we couldn’t actually see it. When I left my house on Sunday evening, I had no real idea as to what Stoneham’s Lough had to offer, no idea that it had the historic significance of having a crannog in its middle. But as I returned home, I felt I had discovered a real treasure! It will definitely be on my walking schedule in the future. For any fishermen wondering what might be on offer in the lake, we were told by those there yesterday that they were fishing for trout, pike, bream, perch, and rudd. Whether they caught any of them or not, I haven’t a clue, but obviously all of those fish (and maybe some more) are possible to be found in the depths of Stoneham’s Lough. The last time I went fishing could be fifty years ago, when myself and Jim Roarke used to fish for bream down in the Suck near Donamon. The Gunner (Jim’s nickname) used to feed them with loaves of bread, but it seems he fed them so well that they had no interest in our baits, so we packed it in after several long weary nights catching nothing except a cold. Sarah Roarke was often left wondering how they were out of bread so often in the shop in Creggs… little did she know that her loaves were feeding the fattest bream in Ireland – none of whom had any interest in being caught. Anyway, that short episode was the end of my fishing, and despite being tempted by the tranquillity and peacefulness of the fishing area in Stoneham’s, I will not be reviving my very unsuccessful career.

Pictured at last Thursday’s Boyle v Northern Harps RLGFA U-16’s Semi-Final in Ballinameen. Northern Harps supporters Terry and Elaine Shanley. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Pictured at last Sunday’s Shannon Gaels v Boyle RLGFA Senior Championship match in Croghan. Eloise Hennessy, Emer Healy, Louise Kennedy and Emer Spellman spectating together. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Cue the tax relief It’s now Monday morning, and on Morning Ireland, they are talking about the upcoming budget. Some financial expert is telling us that the Government shouldn’t postpone their planned increases in excise duty on petrol and diesel in order to keep the price down, and that they should help the less well-off with income tax reliefs. As I heard about the tax reliefs, for some reason I thought of Big Bill Werbeniuk, a Canadian snooker player from the seventies to the nineties, who famously got six pints of lager before every game treated as a tax deductible expense. Big Bill had a medical condition, which caused him to have a tremor in his hand, and doctors advised him to drink a few pints before every game to settle the tremor, so he was given tax relief on that expense. However, he didn’t stick to the six pints; he used to have another pint for every frame and was estimated to drink between forty and fifty pints every day! Among his legendary drinking bouts was the time he drank 76 cans of lager during a match with John Spencer in the 70’s (Spencer was a very slow player). He also downed 43 pints during a game with Scotland’s Eddie Sinclair, and when the Scotsman passed out after himself consuming 42 pints, Big Bill announced he was going for “a proper drink”. In 1990, he did 28 pints and 16 whiskies during a game with Nigel Bond, and after losing, drank a bottle of scotch to drown his sorrows. Funnily enough, despite all of that, he was a reasonably good professional snooker player, who was ranked eigth in the world at one time and was a three-time quarter finalist in the World Snooker Championships. Sadly, he ended up living back in Canada with his brother and his mother after being declared bankrupt, and died

from heart failure in January 2003 at the age of 56. It appears that the heavy drinking played a part in his early demise. Nowadays there doesn’t seem to be any bad boys playing snooker on the world stage any more. Sometimes you’d like to see the likes of Big Bill (maybe not drinking as much) or Alex Higgins – each of whom broke the mould, courted controversy, and, in Higgins’ case, totally disrespected officials, who nonetheless made snooker one of the most popular television sports of their era. These days, the game seems to have lost its huge appeal. The truth is I hardly know any present day player except Ronnie O’Sullivan, another player who doesn’t totally conform. Anyway, as we all look for tax deductible expenses, very few can say they got their drinking subsidised by the Government – but Big Bill Weberniuk did!

And finally… I wish to send my heartiest congratulations to my nephew David and his wife Olivia on the birth of their first child, a bouncing baby boy! It’s a momentous week for our family, as along with Billy and Kate becoming grandparents, my younger brother Duff is also celebrating a big birthday this Saturday, August 29th. Now I won’t give his age away as that wouldn’t be nice, but from Saturday on, he won’t have to pay for the train! So congrats all round and happy birthday, Duff! ‘Til next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Church Street transformation completed as part of Roscommon Town regeneration Coffey has completed the Church Street element of Roscommon Town’s Public Realm Enhancement and Cycleway Project, upgrading one of the county town’s oldest and most recognisable streets. Stretching from Goff Street to Abbey Street, the scheme forms part of the wider Putting the Spokes Back in the Wheel regeneration programme. It was designed by Tobin Consulting Engineers and funded through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with match funding from Roscommon County Council. The project has delivered a safer, more accessible and more attractive environment for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, residents and local businesses. A new oneway traffic system on lower Church Street, between Main Street and Henry Street, has improved traffic management and created additional space for public realm enhancements. Coffey’s works included the

reconstruction and widening of footpaths, new kerbs, drainage infrastructure, ducting and public lighting. Improved pedestrian crossing facilities, high-quality paving, landscaping, signage and street furniture have further enhanced the streetscape. Parking arrangements and access for residents and businesses were also addressed, while improved connections now link Church Street more effectively with the town centre and nearby public facilities. Together, these measures support walking and cycling, improve accessibility and create a calmer environment. The completed works have created a more welcoming and people-focused Church Street, with wider footpaths, improved crossings and a fluent one-way traffic system. These changes enhance accessibility, support active travel and create a more attractive setting for local businesses, residents and visitors. Given Church Street’s location within a historic urban environment, the works were

carried out with appropriate archaeological monitoring. This helped protect the area’s heritage and archaeological significance while enabling the delivery of modern infrastructure designed to serve the town for many years to come. For Coffey, the project reflects the value of combining engineering expertise, careful planning and collaboration to deliver improvements that benefit communities. The completed scheme contributes to road safety, urban accessibility, sustainable transport and the long-term vitality of Roscommon Town. Coffey is continuing to grow its teams across Ireland and has current opportunities for Civil Estimators, Commercial Managers, Mechanical Design Engineers, BIM/CAD Technicians, Senior Group Payroll Specialists and Site and Senior Engineers at various levels. Roles are available in Athenry, Clare, Cavan, Donegal, Dublin and Monaghan. To learn more about careers with Coffey, visit www.coffeygroup.com/ careers.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Chasing totality Let’s talk about. . . The solar eclipse Alannah Ita Healy Roscommon People columnist Alannah Ita Healy was in Tres Cantos, Spain, this month as thousands gathered to watch the sun disappear for 36 remarkable seconds – experiencing first-hand what makes a total solar eclipse unlike the partial version seen back home. A fortnight ago, on the outskirts of the Spanish town of Tres Cantos, there was, perhaps, a couple thousand of us gathered under pockets of tree shade in Valdeloshielos park. From about half six, glancing from the hotel balcony, we had seen a steady procession of people descending across a temporarily-pedestrianised bridge towards the park; families, couples, friend groups – many with plastic bags full of snacks, and coolers full of waters and soft drinks to beat the thick heat that was persisting into the evening. Up until recently, there was to be no need for these BYOprovisions. Before its official cancellation, the Ayuntamiento de Tres Cantos had planned a major public celebration (complete with food trucks, live music, and educational workshops) in this patch of parkland, hoping to safely host the usually large crowd who had populated the town that night. However, following an exceptional dry summer, the wildfire risk was deemed too great. Nevertheless, with a handful of areas remaining open to the public, crowds still turned up in droves to the satellite town – Tres Cantos sitting in the rather narrow overlap of a geographical Venn diagram: within easy reach of Madrid, yet just inside the path of totality for August 12th’s solar eclipse. In the days preceding, officials had estimated that as many as 6 million people would flock to that 200kmwide band crossing Spain where the full spectacle would be visible, from A Coruña in the northwest to the Mediterranean island of Mallorca. It was Spain’s first total solar eclipse in over a century, and excitement was

palpable. Everyone – locals, tourists, and eclipses-chasers alike – seemed to be looking forward to the cosmic event, and some were more prepared than others. For those of us less prepared (…including yours truly), the morning had been spent on an eclipse glasses scavenger hunt. Evidently, you should not wait until just a few days before a country’s “oncein-a-lifetime” eclipse to get supplied, and if you do, you may be relegated to spending the first half of eclipse day itself (originally intended to be a morning of sightseeing and wandering around Madrid) popping into over a dozen pharmacies, where shop after shop, the kind person behind the till gives a sympathetic smile, tells you they don’t have any glasses, and to try such-and-such pharmacy a few minutes away… rinse, repeat. At one point, we popped into a pharmacy whose windows were covered in big posters: “WE HAVE ECLIPSE GLASSES” (an encouraging sign). Upon entering, a woman greeted us at the door, and told us there were “some” left (another encouraging sign). And then upon getting to the till, we watched the man sell the last three pairs to the three customers ahead of us (the end of the encouraging signs). In the end, however, after waiting an hour outside a pharmacy expecting a noondelivery of the “gafas”, we were set, and headed off to catch the train to Tres Cantos with the rest of the eclipsetourists.

parts of North Africa and the Middle East, and another the year after that. For those sufficiently determined (and sufficiently well-funded) eclipse chasing can become an almost regular fixture in the calendar. But the operative word there is somewhere. The thin shadow cast by the moon traces a different path each time, and for any one patch of Earth, finding yourself directly beneath it is a rare – often “once-in-a-lifetime” – privilege. Last Wednesday, for example, was the first total solar eclipse visible from central or western Europe since 1999. Still, even outside that strip of totality, much of Europe got an unusually good consolation prize; though the sun never disappeared completely in Ireland, the 94-96% coverage seen across much of the country was still enough to put on quite a show… at least in the areas where the clouds didn’t do their own eclipsing, of course. The distinction of a partial versus total eclipse, of 95.5% in Roscommon versus 100% in Tres Cantos, may feel a tad academic. For much of the evening, after all, the spectacle in Spain felt equivalent to what must be going on back home. A hurry for glasses or homemade projectors, watching as every few minutes the sun transformed a little further, whittling down to

an ever-narrower crescent. But as 8.32pm approached in Valdeloshielos park, the difference between almost-total and total began to make itself known.

Going, going, gone The light, which had been ebbing for some time, was disappearing noticeably quick and not in the familiar way of an evening drawing to a close. Instead, the park seemed to acquire a strange, washed-out quality; the landscape around us was not in darkness per se, but rather looked noticeably desaturated. And the heat, which had persistently stubbornly all evening, suddenly eased. For those who didn’t manage to get their hands on the glasses, the view through them is much less that of a strong pair of sunnies; absolutely everything through them is black except for the sun. So, watching through them, as slowly as that crescent shape continued to shorten in length and thin into an arc, there was still no mistaking the moment of full coverage. When the remaining sliver of sun vanished altogether, there was a collective reaction: “oohs” and “ahhs” and “oh my gods”, and the crowd, which had universally hushed in the last few minutes, endearingly began to applaud. Well done, moon. And once the view through the glasses went

“Once-in-a-lifetime” It is little wonder why eclipses generate so much excitement from people. And part of the drama, of course, is the sense of rarity. In fact, we have all doubtlessly heard the same phrase countless times in the leadup to last Wednesday’s eclipse – a description that has perhaps begun to generate a certain degree of cynicism: “once-in-a-lifetime event”. After all, the pedant might object. On average, total solar eclipses occur every 18 months. There will be another next August, sweeping across

The total solar eclipse, as seen by Roscommon People columnist Alannah Ita Healy in Valdeloshielos park in Tres Cantos, Spain.

completely black, for the brief 36-second window of totality, they were allowed to be taken off to look directly at the main event. It was spooky. Where the red sun had been, there was now a black disc, surrounded by the ghostly white glow of its corona. And around us, the landscape had fallen into an eerie twilight, while along the horizon remained the warmer colours of sunset. I suppose everyone knows what an eclipse is supposed to look like, but it still felt remarkable to see it right before you in the sky, like something out of a sci-fi. At the moment totality hit, a grandfather beside us began frantically reassuringly his young grandson to take off his glasses. The boy (doubtless having spent the previous hours being told over and over that under no circumstances was he to do exactly that) must’ve hesitated, as his grandfather promised to keep his own glasses on, forgoing a direct look at the once-in-alifetime spectacle so he could tell him exactly when it was time to cover his eyes again. And sure enough, almost as suddenly as it had disappeared, a brilliant point of sunlight broke from behind the moon and the glasses went back on. The light returned for another couple hours before the true sunset arrived, the heat along with it. The birds, confused, performed an evening morning-song. And the crowd of us, with now-empty bags and coolers, headed our way back across the bridge into Tres Cantos. It is funny, really, all the preparation and fuss that went

ahead of such a brief event, but it really was a remarkable 36-seconds. The eclipse itself, as one would expect, was a spectacle to behold, but perhaps unexpected was how affecting the wider experience of it all was. There was something strangely communal about thousands of strangers gathering in a field to watch the sky, collectively falling silent as the light disappeared, and then cheering and applauding when it did. It was humbling, too, to think of the sheer cosmic scale and coincidence that allows for such events; the mechanics of the solar system, usually something rather abstract, suddenly playing out right in front of your eyes.

Save the date... Perhaps inevitably, after being Spain for those 36 seconds, you start wondering when you might get the same thing closer to home: what of Ireland’s own “once-in-alifetime” moment? For that, there is still some waiting to do. Our next total solar eclipse takes place September 23rd, 2090. And just as thousands descended on places like Tres Cantos, the path of totality will once again dictate the destination – this time, across parts of Cork and Kerry. As for anyone curious about when we in Roscommon might expect a total eclipse, that wait is longer again… after a quick search through NASA’s website, it appears the Rossies can expect totality on May 5th, 2600. At least we’ve lots of time to sort out the glasses.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Afternoon Tea at the Abbey The Abbey Hotel is offering traditional Afternoon Tea, providing an ideal setting to catch up with friends, celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy an afternoon treat. Afternoon Tea is priced at €30 per person, with the option to add a glass of Prosecco.

Booking is advised and 48 hours’ prior notice is essential. For bookings, email events@ abbeyhotel.ie or call 090 66 26240, Ext. 4. Afternoon Tea gift vouchers are also available to purchase online or from hotel reception.

Pictured at Roscommon Racecourse recently were members of the Roscommon Ladies Intermediate All-Ireland Championship-winning football team, who were invited to enjoy an evening at the races, proudly displaying the Mary Martin Cup. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured enjoying the Family Fun Day at Roscommon Races recently were Lena and Valerie Gunning. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured enjoying his first race meeting at Roscommon Races was Kazu Tonegawa from Japan, with Terry Leyden. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Racing resumes on Monday We are back racing at Roscommon next Monday the 31st of August for an all-ﬂat card and the recent bit of rain has been very welcome for what has been a particularly challenging dry spell for everyone. But the good weather has resulted in a wonderful summer of racing at Roscommon, with lots of new racegoers coming through the turnstiles. As we approach the end of our season, we are keen to keep up that momentum, so do check out our social media pages and website for offers on admission prices. As we have alluded to all season, the Jockeys Championship looks like going down to the wire with very little separating our top

three riders, namely last year’s Champion Dylan Browne McMonagle, Colin Keane who has won the title six times and Billy Lee. The latter is enjoying his best every season numerically and has put himself in a great position to land a ﬁrst Jockey’s Championship. But you get the feeling that Dylan may have too much ﬁrepower come the end of the season and he is favourite with all bookmakers to gain back-toback titles. All three were here on the 18th of August, when Colin and Dylan rode a winner apiece and we are anticipating that all three will be back here on the 31st of August. Our race sponsors include the Irish EBF and Lldan while

our Best Turned Out prizes are kindly sponsored by Casey Lawnmowers, Fuerty Co Roscommon. We will have entertainment here at the Racecourse after the last race and we have a ‘special offer’ on admission prices. Adults get in for just €10 and it is just €5 for OAP’s and students. A list of remaining ﬁxtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on our website roscommonracecourse. ie. Enquiries: contact@ roscommonracecourse.ie or Phone: 087 2203288 Come for the Racing: Stay for the Craic.

Roscommon Race Course CLG.

MONDAY, 31ST AUGUST, 2026 FIRST RACE: 4.50PM

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Music after 2nd Last Race with Billy Garvin SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL ADMISSION PRICES ADULTS: €10.00 OAP/STUDENTS: €5.00

– COME FOR THE RACING – STAY FOR THE CRAIC! Cash and Card Payments accepted at the gate ALL ENQUIRIES: (087) 2203288 • E-Mail: contact@roscommonracecourse.ie For updates log into www.roscommonracecourse.ie or follow us on

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Passing on the baton of volunteerism

Pictured at this year’s Roscommon Agricultural Show launch in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon were Pamela Cassidy (Vice-Chairperson and Secretary), Tracey Hanlon Owens (Treasurer), Christy Tully (President) and Claudia Gormley (Chairperson). Photo: Michael Finan < EMMA HEALY

Few counties in Ireland can match Roscommon when it comes to volunteering. But recent figures, together with the experience of some local organisations, point to a quieter challenge: ensuring a new generation is ready to take the reins when long-serving volunteers eventually step back. Sports clubs, festivals, Tidy Towns committees, charities, heritage groups and local events — so much of what happens in County Roscommon happens because someone, somewhere, is giving their time for free. But when the people who have kept those organisations going for years eventually decide to step back, who takes over? Census figures put the picture in context: almost 11,600 people in Roscommon — around one in six residents — volunteered in some form in 2022. Sport accounted for close to 4,900 of them, community work for roughly 4,400, and social or charitable causes for over 2,800. The biggest single group of volunteers — 4,717 people — were aged 45 to 64. Another 2,267 were 65 or older. By comparison, just over 1,000 volunteers were aged 15 to 24. CSO figures from the second quarter of 2025 found 17.8% of 45-to-64-year-olds volunteering, and 17.2% of those aged 65 to 74 — versus 13.9% of 15-to-24-year-olds. The 65to-74 age group also put in the most hours of anyone. None of this means volunteering itself is fading. Quite the opposite — the West of Ireland, taking in Roscommon, Galway and Mayo, posted the highest volunteering rate in the country in that same

CSO survey, at 19.4%. The issue, then, is not simply enthusiasm, but succession — making sure the know-how, contacts and sense of responsibility built up over decades are passed on when a long-serving organiser finally calls it a day. Roscommon Agricultural Show Treasurer Tracey Hanlon Owens said the distinction is particularly evident around show time. “You can get people to come for a day, but it’s trying to get people to commit,” she said. While the public sees the show itself each August, Tracey said preparations begin just after Christmas — and the work does not stop once show day is over. In the weeks afterwards, judges’ books have to be checked, exhibitors paid, invoices processed and reports submitted to funding bodies. “People don’t realise how much goes on in the background,” she said, describing the organising work at times as feeling “like a full-time job”. That makes succession particularly important. Tracey said the show has long-standing older committee members whose experience has been built up over many years, while she, the secretary and assistant treasurer are among its younger organisers. The aim is to bring new people in alongside experienced members so that they can gradually learn what is involved rather than suddenly finding themselves responsible for an entire section. “We’ve been doing it for years, trying to get people in behind them to try and teach them what needs to be done step-by-step,” she said. “You can’t throw anyone in at the deep end.” Time is another factor. Tracey

said the committee now makes a conscious effort to keep its meetings to around an hour, recognising that volunteers also have work, homes and families outside the organisation. She also praised Roscommon Volunteer Centre for supplying volunteers on show day, many of whom return to the same roles year after year. Roscommon Gaels Chairperson Seamus Carthy said the town club has been fortunate in continuing to attract new volunteers while retaining the experience of people who have served for much longer periods. “We’ve always been very, very lucky over the years to

get an influx of new people, whilst also having the established, longer-term volunteer,” he said. That combination, he believes, allows the club to benefit both from people capable of taking a longer-term view and from fresh involvement year after year. But volunteering in sport increasingly involves more than simply turning up to coach a team. Seamus pointed to requirements such as Garda vetting and coaching courses, particularly for those working with children. People taking on voluntary roles now have to be willing not only to give their time, he said, but also to complete the processes and procedures associated with the role. For Roscommon Tidy Towns Chairperson Kathleen Shanagher, meanwhile, one answer to the volunteering question is to make clear that getting involved does not necessarily mean signing up to a major weekly commitment. Many of the group’s members have been involved for more than 20 years. Others have joined for several years before moving on, while new people continue to come along. Kathleen said the group would always welcome more members, but deliberately tries to keep volunteering informal and flexible. “There’s no pressure on anybody to be out,” she said. When the group meets, a message is simply sent out to members and whoever is available comes along. For Kathleen, the rewards go well beyond litter-picking or

Pictured is Seamus Carthy of REA Seamus Carthy, Chairperson of Roscommon Gaels.

planting flowers. Volunteers get exercise and fresh air, meet other people and can see a visible result from the time they have given, while the wider town benefits from painting, planting and other improvement projects. Kathleen believes volunteering itself needs to be understood much more broadly. Someone who cannot commit to joining a committee could volunteer at a single event.

Pictured is Kathleen Shanagher, Chairperson of Roscommon Tidy Towns, which retained its gold medal in the 2025 SuperValu TidyTowns competition, following Roscommon Town’s success as Ireland’s Best Kept Town in 2024.

Someone unable to attend every Tidy Towns evening could come when they are available or simply take responsibility for looking after their own area. “You don’t really have to be on the committee if you don’t want to,” she said. “Give your time at the events when you’re required, and that’d be great.” The county does not appear to be short of community spirit. The figures — and the sheer number of clubs, shows, festivals and community organisations operating here — make that clear. The challenge may instead be ensuring that volunteering can fit around increasingly busy lives, giving people manageable ways to get involved while also identifying those willing to gradually take on greater responsibility. The knowledge accumulated by someone who has organised an agricultural show, coached generations of young players or worked on a community committee for 20 or 30 years cannot simply be replaced overnight. As Kathleen puts it, the first step for a potential volunteer can be very simple: “Find your tribe,” she said. “You’re giving of your time freely and you enjoy it.” For the organisations that depend on that time, encouraging people to take that first small step may be the best way of making sure there is eventually someone ready to take the next one.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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YOU ARE IN ITED TO OUR

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Pictured (l-r): Dave McCourt (Lough Ree RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager), Ciara McCarth, Kathleen McCarth, Vincent Rafter (Lough Ree RNLI Station Fundraising)

Lough Ree RNLI honours former colleague Volunteers past and present, members of the local community and the family of the late Tony McCarth gathered at Lough Ree RNLI Boathouse in Athlone on Tuesday, August 18th, to remember a volunteer who made an immense contribution to the charity and the area. Tony was a member of Lough Ree RNLI for more than ten years until his untimely passing last year. He served the charity in a number of roles,

Pictured is the late Tony McCarth.

most notably as volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager from 2017 to 2021. During a period of major change, he oversaw the delivery of the new RNLI boathouse at Coosan Point and helped guide the station’s volunteer crew through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the crew’s weekly training session, Tony’s family, friends and fellow volunteers gathered for a special ceremony at which the station slipway was officially named the ‘Tony McCarth Slipway’, in recognition of his dedication, friendship and leadership. In July 2025, Tony was presented with a special RNLI Certificate of Service acknowledging his 11 years with the charity. The certificate noted that during that period Lough Ree RNLI had “saved or aided 1,452 lives” on Lough Ree and the River Shannon. Speaking at the naming ceremony, Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Dave McCourt welcomed Tony’s family and friends back to the station, particularly his wife Kathleen and daughter Ciara, and thanked them for the support they had given Tony throughout his time with the RNLI. He said: “Tony will be remembered as someone who led by example, who was a welcoming and supportive presence at the Lifeboat Station, and as someone who always cared about every volunteer, especially younger members of the crew.”

Mundy to perform at The Dock Irish singer-songwriter Mundy will perform at The Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon on Saturday, September 5th. Born Edmond Enright in Birr, Co. Offaly, Mundy moved to Dublin at the age of 18 and became part of

the city’s busking scene. During that period, he wrote a number of songs that would feature in his early career, including Gin & Tonic Sky and Life’s A Cinch. He later signed with Epic Records and Warner Chappell

Music, and released his debut album Jelly Legs in 1996. International attention followed with To You I Bestow, which featured on the soundtrack to Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet. Over the course of his career, Mundy has shared stages with artists including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Emmylou Harris, R.E.M., Oasis, The White Stripes and The Pogues. He has also performed at the White House as part of St Patrick’s Day celebrations. Mundy has released a series of albums through his independent label Camcor Records, founded in 2000. His album Raining Down Arrows reached number one in the Irish charts. He also won the 2009 Meteor Music Award for Most Downloaded Song for his version of Galway Girl with Sharon Shannon.

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Family carers invited to have their say ahead of Budget 2027 Family carers across Roscommon are being invited to attend a town hall meeting ahead of Budget 2027. Organised by Family Carers Ireland, the meeting will take place at Hannons Hotel, Roscommon, on Thursday, September 10th at 11am. The event will give carers an opportunity to discuss the challenges they face and the supports they need with local TDs and senators. Issues expected to be raised include financial pressures, access to respite, the impact of caring on health and wellbeing, and future care planning. Family Carers Ireland’s latest State of Caring report found that 71% of carers surveyed struggle to

Lip Sync Battle at Glenamaddy Summer Festival Meatloaf & Cher and the Spice Girls, winners of the Lip Sync Battle at the recent Glenamaddy Summer Festival.

make ends meet, while 75% have never accessed respite and almost half experience severe loneliness. Bernie Dowling, Carer Support Manager for Roscommon, said the meeting would give elected representatives an opportunity to hear directly about “the realities of caring and the changes needed to better support carers and their families”. Among the measures being sought are the abolition of the Carer’s Allowance means test, an increase in weekly carer payments to €325, a higher Carer’s Support Grant and improved access to regular respite. Family carers can register to attend online.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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How much does it cost a year to live in County Roscommon?  LIAM DONOHOE DUNNE

In 2026, the median price of a home sold in County Roscommon stands at approximately €240,000, according to up-to-date figures from HousePrice.ie. Go back a decade and the picture was very different. CSO figures published in early 2017 put the median price paid for a home in Roscommon over the preceding 12 months at approximately €75,000. The figures should not be treated as a formal measure of house-price inflation, as the mix of properties sold changes over time. But they illustrate a wider point: the cost facing someone trying to establish a home in the county has changed dramatically over the space of a decade. So, with this in mind, how much could it cost a couple or family to buy and run a home in County Roscommon today? Assuming a couple want to settle down in Roscommon and purchase a house for €240,000, they would generally need a minimum deposit of 10 per cent, or €24,000.

For ﬁrst-time buyers, Central Bank mortgage rules generally allow borrowing of up to four times gross household income. A couple seeking the remaining €216,000 would therefore need a combined gross income of at least €54,000, subject to the lender’s own affordability assessment. For second and subsequent buyers, the limit is generally 3.5 times gross income, meaning the income requirement would be higher. And that is only to access the credit needed to buy the house. Assuming a €216,000 mortgage over 30 years at an interest rate of around 3.5 per cent, repayments would amount to approximately €970 a month — or about €11,640 a year. Then come the costs of actually running the home. Using typical national electricity and gas consumption as a rough guide, household energy bills can add more than €3,000 a year. The precise ﬁgure will vary greatly, particularly in Roscommon, where many homes are heated by oil, electricity or solid fuel rather than natural gas. That brings the rough mortgage-

and-energy bill for our €240,000 example to almost €15,000 a year. And even that is far from the full cost of living in County Roscommon. It does not include food, transport, insurance, Local Property Tax, home maintenance, childcare or the many other expenses faced by a household. Go back to 2016 and the picture was markedly different. Taking a €75,000 house price as a simple comparison, a 10 per cent deposit would leave a mortgage of €67,500. Applying the same 30-year term and 3.5 per cent interest rate would result in repayments of approximately €303 per month, or about €3,640 a year. CSO ﬁgures show that the median residential electricity bill in Roscommon in 2016 was €913, while the median gas bill for households connected to the gas network was €759. On that illustrative basis, the combined mortgage-and-energy ﬁgure would have been approximately €5,300 a year, compared with almost €15,000 in our present-day example. It is not a formal cost-of-living

index, and the ﬁgures depend heavily on the type of house, mortgage, heating system and household involved. But they give some indication of the scale of the pressure now facing people attempting to buy and maintain a home. So what has driven the increase? A major factor is the continuing imbalance between demand for housing and the supply of suitable homes. Ireland’s population has grown, employment has remained strong and demand for housing has increased, while the supply of homes in many areas has struggled to keep pace. When more buyers compete for a limited number of properties, upward pressure on prices follows. It is not all doom and gloom, however. Increasing the supply of housing remains one of the clearest ways of easing that pressure. That means examining barriers to construction, the planning process, infrastructure and the viability of new developments, while ensuring homes are built where they are actually needed. There are lessons from the past too. Ireland’s pre-2008 experience

Cluster of missingFour in ten drivers person appeals delay applying for involving teenage girls A series of Garda missing-person appeals involving teenage girls has continued in recent weeks, with girls aged between 13 and 17 featuring in public appeals during July and August. On August 5th, Gardaí issued appeals for 17-year-old Elisabeta Milosiu, who had been reported missing from Letterkenny since August 2nd, and for Kelsey Kenny and Tabarak Ramadan, both aged 17, who had been reported missing from Tralee since August 3rd. Elisabeta was subsequently located. A further appeal was issued on August 18th for 13-year-old Ella Rose Mooney, who had been reported missing from Emyvale, Co. Monaghan since August 14th and was last seen at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre in Dublin. Another appeal issued on August 1st concerned 16-year-old Megan Brock, who had been missing from Shankill, Co. Dublin since July 3rd. She was subsequently located. The August cases followed a signiﬁcant number of similar appeals during July. A review of An Garda Síochána’s published appeals shows that at least 11

different girls under the age of 18 featured during that month. They included Amelia Evans, Stephanie Fehervari, Aliyah Smyth Donnelly, Marion McNamara, Nicole Brennan Soltys, Vitoria Chagas, Amber Lynch and Diana Maria Cirimpei during the first ten days of July. Later in the month, appeals were also issued involving 15-yearold Abbie Reid, 16-year-old Sonya Kosykh and 16-year-old Julia Tache. Some appeals were subsequently stood down after the young people were located. The figures relate only to cases where Gardaí issued a public appeal and do not represent the total number of children reported missing. They also do not establish that the individual cases are connected or that there has been an overall increase in missingchild reports. As of Wednesday, August 26th, the Garda missing-persons list continued to include Ella Rose Mooney, Kelsey Kenny, Tabarak Ramadan and Sonya Kosykh. The Roscommon People has sought figures from An Garda Síochána on missingchild reports in recent years.

driving test More than four in ten drivers in Connacht and Ulster have delayed applying for their driving test, according to new research. A survey commissioned by insurance broker Gallagher found that 42% of respondents in the region had put off applying for their test, slightly above the national ﬁgure of 40%. Connacht and Ulster recorded the highest rate of delayed applications of any region surveyed. Lack of motivation was cited by 15% of respondents in the region as a reason for delaying their test — also the highest ﬁgure recorded nationally. Across Ireland, cost was the most commonly cited barrier, at 11%, followed by nerves and lack of motivation, both at 9%. Younger motorists were particularly likely to delay. Half of drivers aged between 25 and 34 said they had postponed taking their test,

while 45% of those aged 18 to 24 had done so. By contrast, 71% of respondents aged over 55 said they applied for their test as soon as they became eligible. Only 4% nationally said difficulty securing a driving test appointment was the main reason they delayed applying. Geraldine Kelly, Head of Personal Lines Insurance at Gallagher, said the findings suggested personal and financial pressures were proving a greater obstacle than test waiting times. “What stands out from the research is that the barriers are not necessarily what many people might expect,” she said. “Instead, the findings point more towards personal and financial pressures, with cost, nerves, lack of time and motivation all emerging as key factors.” The research was based on a survey of 900 drivers nationwide.

demonstrated the dangers not simply of building houses, but of allowing a credit-fuelled property bubble, speculative development and excessive exposure by the banking system to take hold. The challenge now is different: increasing housing supply in a sustainable way, without repeating the mistakes of the previous property boom. Hopefully, with the right balance, the tide can begin to turn.

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

Deadline approaches for Electronic monitoring pilot to begin this year Biodiversity Action Plan People across County Roscommon have until this Saturday, August 29th, to contribute to the first stage of consultation on the county’s first Biodiversity Action Plan. Roscommon County Council is currently developing the plan, which will set out a framework for protecting, managing and enhancing biodiversity across the county. The first round of consultation is focused on a discussion paper, with submissions accepted until 5 pm on Saturday. The consultation is being carried out in two stages, with the current phase intended to gather views from members of the public, community organisations and other interested groups before the plan is finalised. An in-person consultation event was held at the Council’s Boyle Area Office last Friday, August 21st, as part of the process. The development of a county Biodiversity Action Plan is also includ-

ed as a commitment in Roscommon County Council’s Corporate Plan 2024-2029, which states that the local plan will help implement the National Biodiversity Action Plan 2023-2030. Work on the Roscommon plan has been underway for some time. Earlier this year, the Council reported that a discussion document and a number of draft actions were being developed, while a Biodiversity Working Group was being established with representation from NGOs and community interest groups. Local biodiversity plans typically identify important habitats and species and set out practical actions aimed at conserving or improving them. Previous Roscommon biodiversity work has highlighted the role such plans can play in identifying areas of ecological value, improving habitats and increasing public awareness of local wildlife and the natural environment.

The county’s rivers, lakes, wetlands, peatlands, grasslands, hedgerows and woodland areas mean biodiversity policy can intersect with a wide range of local issues, from agriculture and development to recreation, tourism and community projects. The current consultation gives residents an opportunity to identify the habitats, species and biodiversity issues they believe should receive particular attention in the new county-wide plan. Copies of the discussion paper are available through Roscommon County Council’s public consultation portal or from the Council’s Biodiversity Officer. Submissions can be made online through the consultation portal or by post to the Biodiversity Officer at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon town. The deadline for submissions in this first stage is 5 pm on Saturday, August 29th.

A 12-month pilot programme for the electronic monitoring of certain offenders is set to begin later this year. Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan has signed a contract with Allied Universal Electronic Monitoring for the project, with electronic tagging expected to commence by the end of 2026. The pilot will have capacity to monitor between 90 and 150 people over the 12-month period. The Government says electronic monitoring will be considered for speciﬁc categories of offenders, with factors including the individual’s proﬁle and the nature, type and seriousness of the offence

taken into account when assessing suitability. Minister O’Callaghan said electronic monitoring is used in a number of other jurisdictions as an additional tool in the management and monitoring of offenders. The measure forms part of a Programme for Government commitment and is also intended to help alleviate pressure on prison capacity while maintaining public safety. A total of €2.1 million was allocated in Budget 2026 towards stafﬁng, procurement and other set-up costs associated with the project.

Roscommon leads country for new forestry planting 335 hectares of new forest planted in county during 2025 County Roscommon recorded the highest level of new forestry planting in Ireland last year, according to new figures published by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. A total of 335 hectares of new forest was created in Roscommon during 2025, putting the county ahead of Cork, where 276 hectares were planted. The Roscommon figure represented approximately 13 per cent of all new forestry planted across the country during the year. The figures are contained in the newly published Forest Statistics Ireland 2026 report, which provides an overview of Ireland’s forestry sector and trends in afforestation, ownership, harvesting and investment. Nationally, 2,527 hectares of new forest were created during 2025, an increase of al-

most 1,000 hectares on the 1,573 hectares recorded in 2024. Roscommon has featured prominently in recent afforestation figures. The county also recorded the highest level of new planting in Ireland in 2023, when 189 hectares were afforested. The latest report shows that broadleaf trees are also making up an increasing proportion of new forests. Some 66 per cent of the area planted nationally during 2025 consisted of broadleaf species. Farmers accounted for 54 per cent of the land afforested during the year, with non-farmers accounting for the remaining 46 per cent. Minister of State with responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture Niall Collins welcomed the increase in planting, saying improved financial supports under the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 and greater efficiency in the licensing process had contributed to the rise. He described forestry as a potentially “at-

Presenting a cheque for €4,540 to Mayo Roscommon Hospice on behalf of the Roscommon GAA Golf Society, representing the proceeds of a recent fundraiser, were (from left): Marty McDermott, Secretary; John O’Callaghan; Pat McNeill, Captain; Mike Smith, Mayo Roscommon Hospice; and Ollie Dooley, President.

tractive and viable alternative” for farmers and landowners and encouraged landowners to consider incorporating forestry into their farm enterprises. Despite the rise in planting, Ireland remains one of the less heavily forested countries in Europe. Forest currently accounts for 11.6 per cent of the State’s total land area. The report also highlights the signiﬁcant impact of storms on the forestry sector during 2025. An estimated 27,400 hectares of forest were affected by severe wind damage, with approximately 10 million cubic metres of timber impacted. As a result of increased salvage harvesting, roundwood removals rose by 18 per cent, from 4.4 million cubic metres in 2024 to 5.2 million cubic metres last year. Overall, the Department spent €79 million on forestry activities during 2025, including afforestation supports, annual premium payments, maintenance grants and grants for forest-road infrastructure.

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

How your TDs voted: the patterns behind Roscommon-Galway’s Dáil votes Roscommon-Galway sends three TDs from three different political groupings to Leinster House — and their voting records show that the constituency frequently divides two to one when major questions come before the Dáil. An examination of selected recorded divisions involving Fianna Fáil’s Martin Daly, Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane and Independent Ireland’s Michael Fitzmaurice shows one combination occurring particularly often: Daly recording one vote, with Kerrane and Fitzmaurice recording the other. But that is not the case on every issue. There have also been votes where Daly and Fitzmaurice have recorded the same position while Kerrane voted differently, as well as occasions when all three Roscommon-Galway TDs voted the same way. The differences can be seen across issues including housing, planning, cost of living and immigration-related measures. Housing One clear two-to-one division came during a debate on vacant council housing in June 2025. An amendment sought a number of measures, including reducing the av-

erage turnaround time for vacant local authority homes to two months and allowing councils to apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant for vacant council properties. Kerrane and Fitzmaurice voted in favour of the amendment, while Daly voted against. It was defeated by 87 votes to 69. When the Government’s amended housing motion was subsequently put to the Dáil, the positions were reversed: Daly voted in favour while Kerrane and Fitzmaurice voted against. It is an example of a voting pattern that has recurred during the current Dáil, with the Fianna Fáil TD recording the Government position and the Sinn Féin and Independent Ireland representatives recording the opposite vote. Immigration and accommodation The same numerical split emerged in May 2025 during a vote relating to the Accommodation Recognition Payment for people providing accommodation to Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection. An amendment was put forward in response to the Government proposal to reduce the monthly payment from €800 to €600.

Kerrane and Fitzmaurice voted for the amendment, while Daly voted against. It was defeated by 101 votes to 41. The fact that two TDs record the same vote does not necessarily mean they take the same broader position on an issue. A Dáil division records support or opposition to the specific question before the House, rather than providing a complete account of a deputy’s views on the wider subject. Planning provides a different split The pattern changes on some votes. During consideration of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2026 in July, Daly and Fitzmaurice both voted in favour of section 62 remaining part of the Bill, while Kerrane voted against. The section was carried by 82 votes to 65. That vote is notable because it produced a different two-to-one combination from several of the earlier divisions: Daly and Fitzmaurice recorded the same vote, with Kerrane recording the opposite position. This demonstrates why the voting record cannot simply be reduced to a permanent Government-versus-Opposition split. Sometimes all three agree

There are also significant issues on which Roscommon-Galway’s three representatives have recorded the same vote. Daly, Kerrane and Fitzmaurice all voted in favour of the final passage of the Critical Infrastructure Bill 2026 in May. The Bill passed by 132 votes to 15. All three also voted against the Animal Health and Welfare (Ban on Hare Coursing) Bill when it came before the Dáil in July, when the proposal was defeated by 125 votes to 24. So while two-to-one divisions are common among the constituency’s representatives, they are far from universal. What matters to voters? The voting records can also be viewed against the issues voters have identified as particularly important. A RED C poll published in May 2024 found that cost of living was regarded as “very important” by 56 per cent of respondents, followed by immigration at 50 per cent. Health services and hospitals were cited by 34 per cent, housing and planning by 30 per cent, and crime, policing and antisocial behaviour by 26 per cent. The poll provides a

snapshot of the issues occupying voters during the period leading into the current political cycle. Not every issue produces a neat vote – some issues or variation in opinion concern amendments, individual sections of legislation or amended motions rather than a straightforward vote for or against an entire policy. What the record does provide is an objective account of how RoscommonGalway’s representatives voted when divisions were called. Across the examples examined, Daly has frequently recorded one position while Kerrane and Fitzmaurice have recorded the other. But there are exceptions, including votes where Daly and Fitzmaurice have matched and votes where all three representatives have agreed. All three were elected to represent Roscommon-Galway, from different political parties and backgrounds and with different areas of focus. The three deputy’s voting records show different approaches across a range of national issues — sometimes producing a twoto-one split and, on other occasions, a common position across all three representatives.

Letter to the Editor

Reader responds to article on ‘The Natural Prevalence of God’ Eileen Fahey and Zofia Szewczuk examining invertebrates in a water sample

Participants enjoying Water Heritage Day in Kilteevan pictured with Cllr Domnick Connolly, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, launching the brochure Protect our Local Rivers and Streams.

Suzanne Stroker, Janet Laffey and Mary McDermott examining a Flattened Mayfly.

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Water Heritage Day marked in Kilteevan Water Heritage Day was marked in Kilteevan on August 23rd with the launch of a new leaflet and a citizen science event focused on local rivers and streams. Cllr Domnick Connolly, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, launched the leaflet, Protect our Local Rivers and Streams, which was produced by Kilteevan Tidy Towns with support from the River Basin Management Service Small Grants and Events Scheme. Cllr Connolly said the leaflet highlighted the importance of riparian zones — the margins along rivers and streams which help protect waterways and provide habitat for wildlife. He also welcomed the inclusion of local memories connected with the Cloneigh River, saying they helped people reconnect

Participants enjoying Water Heritage Day in Kilteevan.

with nature and with their local area. A citizen science event was also held, with Community Water Officer Janet Laffey providing information on the Citizen Science Stream Index programme. Participants then took part in a practical workshop at the local slipway, where they learned how to monitor the health and quality of local watercourses. A number of aquatic invertebrates were identified and

recorded during the session. Eileen Fahey, Chairperson of Kilteevan Tidy Towns, thanked Janet Laffey and previous Community Water Officers for their support, and said this type of training helped build local knowledge and capacity. Kilteevan Tidy Towns also thanked those who contributed memories, photographs and design work to the leaflet.

Dear Editor, The Natural Prevalence of God by Emma Healy in your edition of August 13th raises a question worth considering, but I’m not convinced intuition can bear the weight she places on it. Certainty is a feeling, not a guarantee of truth. People have been utterly convinced of things that later proved false, from the belief that the sun orbited the earth to the idea that illness was divine punishment. That we sense something strongly may tell us more about our own minds than about reality itself. Her wonder at the universe being understandable to us does not necessarily require a divine explanation either. Our minds are products of this universe, shaped over generations to detect the kinds of patterns that mattered for survival. It is not surprising that a mind shaped by nature is good at reading nature — that is an expected outcome, not necessarily a mystery. The DNA argument, too, echoes a familiar history. Thunder, disease and the movement of the planets were all once explained by reference to God, until natural explanations emerged. Each time, the explanation arrived and God receded to the next unknown. Insisting that deeper understanding only deepens the mystery does not break this pattern; it risks making the claim unfalsifiable, which weakens it rather than strengthens it. There is a further gap worth noting. Even granting every step of Emma’s argument — that pattern and order in the universe point to something behind them — that still would not establish the specific God she has in mind. Order could just as easily suggest a deist God who set the universe in motion and then stepped back, uninvolved in daily affairs. Pattern and order in nature might support that broader claim, but they cannot, on their own, close the distance to the narrower one. None of this settles whether God exists. But being amazed by how something works is not proof of who designed it — it is simply what understanding feels like from the inside. Name and address with Editor.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

Have we allowed a generation to give up on owning a home?

A QUESTION WORTH ASKING With EMMETT CORCORAN There are certain statistics that should cause a government to stop whatever it is doing and ask whether something has gone seriously wrong. One published this week falls firmly into that category. According to PTSB’s latest Reflecting Ireland housing research, 52 per cent of people under the age of 35 believe they may never be in a position to buy their own home. Think about that for a moment. Not that buying will be difficult. Not that it might take them a little longer. Not that they may have to compromise on location, size or the garden. More than half of the younger adults surveyed believe they may never own a home at all. The same research reports that 61 per cent of under-35s are considering social housing, while 55 per cent are considering long-term renting. There is nothing shameful about either. But that is not really the point. The question is why generations growing up in one of the wealthiest countries in the world increasingly believe that buying an ordinary home on an ordinary working income may simply be beyond them. For years we have discussed housing in terms of output. How many houses were commenced? How many were completed? How many social homes were delivered? That obsession with supply is justified. We plainly need to build far more homes. But perhaps we have neglected another measurement: how many people actually believe they have a realistic prospect of obtaining one. The PTSB housing research is national and should be understood ac-

cordingly. Almost half of prospective first-time buyers, 49 per cent, expect some form of assistance from family through gifts, loans or inheritance. That sits rather uncomfortably beside separate PTSB research on financial planning and inheritance. Its survey of 1,000 adults found that 39 per cent of those aged 25 to 34 were reliant on inheritance to achieve longer-term financial goals. Among those aged 18 to 24, the figure was 41 per cent. Put those findings together. Many younger adults believe they may never buy a home. Others are contemplating social housing or permanent renting. Almost half of prospective first-time buyers expect family help. Large numbers say inheritance matters to their financial future. What exactly are we creating? For generations, there was a fairly understandable route through adult life. You got a job. You saved. You borrowed. You bought a modest house. You spent a substantial portion of your working life paying for it. Eventually it became yours. That route was never effortless. Previous generations struggled with unemployment, mortgages and, at times, crushingly high interest rates. But the destination at least appeared attainable. For many younger people today, the destination itself seems to have disappeared over the horizon. The Central Bank permits firsttime buyers generally to borrow up to four times gross income and requires a deposit of at least 10 per cent. Those limits exist for good reason. We know where reckless

mortgage lending can lead. The answer cannot simply be to allow ever greater borrowing to chase ever more expensive houses. That turns an affordability problem into a household debt problem. Mortgages of 30 or 35 years are now commonplace. There is nothing inherently improper about a long mortgage where repayments remain affordable. But somebody entering the market in their 30s may be contemplating repayments extending into their 60s. The problem is the relationship between income, deposits, rents and house prices. Someone paying substantial rent is expected simultaneously to accumulate a large deposit. Having achieved that, he or she must earn enough to satisfy mortgage lending limits on the balance. For couples on two decent incomes, particularly outside the most expensive parts of the country, ownership remains attainable. For others it plainly is not. For a single person, the arithmetic can become particularly brutal. Perhaps that explains why family wealth is becoming so important. If your parents can give you €20,000 or €30,000 towards a deposit, you occupy one housing reality. If they can provide a site or eventually leave you a house, you occupy another. If your parents rented all their lives or simply have nothing substantial to pass on, you occupy a very different one. Inheritance has always mattered. But surely we should be uncomfortable with a society in which the ability to own a home increasingly depends upon which family somebody happened to be born into. There has been much discussion about Ireland moving towards a more continental or supposedly “Nordic” attitude to renting. I have no ideological objection to longterm renting. If somebody prefers to rent, enjoys security of tenure and can save adequately for retire-

ment, why should the government tell him or her otherwise? But that is very different from renting permanently because ownership has become financially impossible. And European comparisons only work if we also import the conditions which make long-term renting secure such as adequate supply, tenant protection and stability. If we are genuinely moving towards a society in which far more Irish people will rent for life, then we must confront an even bigger question: what happens when they retire? A person who reaches retirement having paid off a mortgage possesses an extraordinarily valuable protection: They have a roof over their head without a continuing market rent. A lifelong renter does not. That person requires retirement income capable of meeting housing costs for as long as he or she lives. Yet the separate PTSB financialplanning research found that only 23 per cent of adults had a clear long-term financial plan. Nearly half were not confident they could afford their desired lifestyle in retirement. Two-thirds said a proper financial plan would make them less anxious about the future. Housing policy and pension policy therefore cannot be treated as unrelated things. If home ownership declines substantially, the State eventually inherits another problem: how future pensioners are to meet market rents from retirement incomes. There is a human cost long before any of that happens. Housing insecurity means adults remaining with parents, people unable to settle where they work and renters living with the possibility that the home around which they have built their lives may cease to be available. One does not require a psychological study to understand why uncertainty about where you are

going to live produces worry, to say the least. Housing is not merely another market. It is where people sleep, raise children, care for parents, keep the dog, plant the garden and imagine getting old. The old saying that ‘a house is just a building; emotion makes it a home’ holds a strong sense of truth. Successive governments have announced housing targets, revised housing targets, missed targets, launched schemes and replaced schemes. Some policies have worked. Thousands of people buy homes every year and we should not pretend that nobody can buy. But neither can we continue to limp from one housing disappointment to another while asking younger generations indefinitely to retain faith that everything will eventually come right. Building more homes remains indispensable. It is simply no longer sufficient as the only measure of success. We have to bridge the gap between constructing a house and making that house realistically attainable. Otherwise we may arrive at a peculiar Irish housing settlement in which those fortunate enough to inherit receive their foothold from family, those who qualify seek assistance from the State and those caught somewhere between the two spend decades paying rent while wondering whether ownership will ever come. Perhaps the most disturbing finding in the latest research is not that 52 per cent of under-35s think they may never buy a home. It is that after years of housing plans, targets and solutions, so many young people apparently find that outcome entirely unavoidable. At what point does a housing crisis stop being measured in houses and start being measured in the loss of expectation?

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

NewsPeople

REGARI Recovery College Mental Health and Wellbeing Workshops Mental health is a cornerstone of overall wellbeing, impacting every facet of our lives from how we think and feel to how we handle stress and relate to others. Good mental health promotes resilience, enabling individuals to cope with challenges and setbacks. Conversely, poor mental health can lead to a decline in physical health, strained relationships and diminished quality of life. Recognising the importance of mental health encourages a proactive approach to seeking support and resources, ultimately leading to a healthier and more fulﬁlling life. Here at REGARI Recovery College, our unique service aims to support, maintain and promote positive mental health in the

community and to foster hopeful and positive conversations about human distress and the challenges associated with poor mental health. Our mission is to advance personal recovery through vibrant adult education. Based on the grounds of Roscommon University Hospital the service has emerged as a signiﬁcant social and educational initiative since its inception in 2015. REGARI Recovery College community workshops on Mental Health and Wellbeing are being run in Roscommon County Library for a total of 9 weeks starting: Tuesday, 8th Sept ‘26 until Tuesday 10th Nov ‘26, (2-5 pm). Some of the workshops for the

autumn/winter semester include: “Building Healthy Boundaries”, “The Patterns we Keep”, “Fuelling a Healthier You” and “From Anxious to Anchored”. For more information or to book a place please contact Amanda Hunt on (087) 9684352 or email: regarirecoverycollege@gmail. com . You can also register at any of the 9 workshops. So come along and together we’ll pinpoint various supports to effectively manage our mental health and wellbeing while connecting with like-minded individuals. Registration is €5, then all workshops are free to attend. These workshops are for people aged 18 and over. Light refreshments served. All welcome!

Castlerea community rallies behind Kathy Burke’s ‘Play in Pink’ fundraiser

y Collegee Wellbeingg Workshopss Regarii Recovery Autumn/Winter Semester 2026 Roscommon Roscommon Town To T own Library Library To To Register: Register: Phone Phone 087 087 9684352 9684352 or or email: email: regarirecoverycollege@gmail.com regarirecoverycollege@gmail .com Date

Time

Venue

Module

08/09/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

From Anxious to o Anchored Anchor

15/09/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

The Patterns we Keep

22/09/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

Building Healthy y Boundaries

29/09/2026 29

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

Roots and Relationships tionships

06/10/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon Town T wn Library To

Click, Share, Connect...or Disconnect- (Social Media)

Break

20/10/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

A Somatic Approach to Wellbeing

27/10/2026

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

Exploring Individuality Through Clay Modelling

03/11/2026 0 3/11 11/20 /2026 26

2-5 pm

Roscommon Town T wn Library To

Music and Wellbeing

10/11/2026 26

2-5 pm

Roscommon T wn Library To Town

Fuelling uelling a Healthier Y You

*Registration fee of €5 (Payable at any workshop) All modules are then free to attend.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

50 Years of Castlerea Mart

Trade, tradition and community since 1976 — celebrated by

12 page supplement

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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50 years of farming, business and community F ifty years on, Castlerea Mart remains a place where business, farming and community come together — and for Mart Manager Brendan Egan, reaching the milestone is a source of pride. “Since the Mart was established in 1976, we’ve maintained it, developed it and enhanced it,” he says. “It started off with one ring and today we have three.” Brendan has been part of that story for more than four decades. He joined Castlerea Mart in November 1981 and became manager in 2012. In that time, he has seen enormous change in agriculture and in the way livestock is bought and sold. The Mart draws buyers and sellers from a wide catchment area, supplies cattle across all four provinces and also serves as an assembly point for cattle exported to Northern Ireland. “We’ve had a very loyal customer base, both sellers and buyers, since the Mart was established,” he says. “Over that period the Mart has grown and the customer base has grown as well.” Perhaps the biggest change came during Covid, when restrictions accelerated the move towards online livestock sales. “Before Covid, everyone was in attendance and you had huge crowds around the rings,” Brendan says. “There may be fewer people physically attending now, but a lot more stock is being bought online. It has changed the way business is done.” Yet the Mart has never been simply a place of commerce. “It has always been a meeting place,” he says. “Some people come in even if they haven’t livestock to sell. They come to observe the trade, have a look at the stock, meet people and maybe have a bit of lunch. There is a social aspect to it too, and in rural Ireland that is very important.” That continuity can be seen in generations of families who have passed through Castlerea Mart. “Some families have been coming here for three generations,” Brendan says. “They keep coming back, and it is great to see young people taking up farming and showing an active interest in it, because it can be a tough occupation and it is ever-changing.”

He is particularly conscious of the work done by suckler farmers in the region. “These are people working early mornings and late nights, putting huge time and effort into their farms and producing quality cattle,” he says. “They deserve great credit, and hopefully they are rewarded with a good price for their stock at the end of the day.” The Mart also has an impact beyond its gates. “It is a huge economic benefit to the town. People come here to trade livestock, but they also use the local shops, restaurants and other outlets. It brings people into Castlerea.”

“It has always been a meeting place” As the Mart marks 50 years, Brendan is keen that the milestone recognises all those who built and sustained it — from the founding members and boards of management to staff, auctioneers, buyers and sellers.

“It has always been a team effort,” he says. “An awful lot of people have dedicated years of their lives to Castlerea Mart, and I’ve been very fortunate to have a great network of people working with me and supporting me.” Looking to the future, Brendan believes viable family farms will remain essential to rural Ireland. “Without people farming and producing stock, marts won’t survive,” he says. “It is vital that the next generation is supported and that smaller farms remain viable.” The anniversary will also be Mass of Remembrance at Castlerea Mart on Tuesday, September 1 at 7 pm, marked with afittingly held “where it all began”. Anyone with a connection to Castlerea Mart, past or present, is warmly invited to attend. For Brendan, the occasion is about recognising those who made the Mart what it is today. “It is important that we remember the people who were brave enough to get the Mart up and running in 1976, and everyone who has contributed to its success since then. This anniversary is a mark of respect to all of them.”

Patricia Casey, Castlerea Mart manager Brendan Egan, Stephanie Feely and Siobhan Earley pictured during another busy Thursday sales day at Castlerea Mart. Photo: Michael Finan

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

The Mart was in our Fitzmaurice house all the time’ Cllr. Paschal

Michael Sweeny Jr reﬂects on his father’s role in establishing Castlerea Mart and how the Mart became woven into the life of the Sweeny family

or Michael Sweeny Jr, Castlerea Mart’s 50th anniversary is not simply the story of a local institution reaching a milestone. It is part of his family story. Michael was 15 years old when the Mart opened in 1976, and he clearly remembers the years of work that preceded it — particularly the long winter evenings when his father, Michael Sweeny, was frequently away from home, travelling with fellow committee members to raise the money needed to get the project off the ground. “I remember the long winter nights and they’d be on the road constantly,” Michael says. “He was never at home for quite a number of years, trying to collect money to establish the Mart with his friends and colleagues at the time.” Among those he particularly remembers from those early years are Richard Finan and Eamon Connally, who, together with his father, he describes as being at the “engine room” of what was to follow. The commitment inevitably affected family life too. With Michael Sr giving so much time to the fledgling Mart, his wife took on additional work at home and on the farm, including milking cows in his absence. “Don’t underestimate the amount of time and work and energy it took,” Michael Jr says. Michael’s memories echo the account his father later wrote of the work involved in establishing Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Market. Michael Sr recalled how, as business at Castlerea’s traditional Fair Green declined, local farmers increasingly had to travel to marts elsewhere to sell their livestock. In 1973, the decision was taken to establish a mart in Castlerea. A local committee was formed, advice was sought from the IFA and ICOS, and the enterprise was established as a co-operative, with money raised through share capital. There was no grant aid available to build the Mart and an enormous fundraising effort followed. For Michael Jr, however, his father’s motivation was straightforward: he wanted local farmers to have a better and fairer way of selling their stock. “It meant absolutely everything to him,” Michael says. “He had a big grá for farmers and, at that time, farmers were fighting to be able to market their own product in a fair manner.” Michael remembers the old Fair Green system himself — cattle being driven into Castlerea early in the morning, held there for much of the day and sold in conditions very different from the organised mart system that would follow. “What he was trying to achieve was a place where farmers would come and sell their cattle safely and in a proper manner, and get the best marketplace for their cattle,” he says.

That ambition became reality in 1976. Building work began on March 1 and Noel Moran was appointed manager on September 10. Castlerea Livestock Cooperative Mart opened for business on September 30, 1976, with Michael Sweeny Sr serving as chairman of the founding committee. For his son, what followed became inseparable from family life.

speed with which cattle can be moved through the Mart are a long way removed from its earliest days. “It’s an incredible achievement,” Michael says. “From where it came from … to now have three rings and be finished as quick as we are during the day. “Without a doubt, it’s one of the top marts in the country.” The Mart’s place in Castlerea has also grown beyond livestock sales.

“Without a doubt, it’s one of the top marts in the country” “The Mart was in our house all the time,” Michael Jr recalls. In its early decades, the Mart’s annual dinners and dances were major social occasions, while the Mart itself remained a regular subject of conversation in the Sweeny home. Whether his father was serving as chairman or not, the connection remained. “It became part of our lives,” Michael says. “It was definitely there in our lives.” Half a century later, he looks at what grew from those years of fundraising and planning with considerable pride. Today’s three-ring operation, improved walkways and safety measures, and the

Michael points to the relationship between the Mart and other local organisations, its support for community causes and the business generated in the town on sale days. But for the Sweeny family, the roots of the story remain in those long evenings 50 years ago: farmers and community members giving their time, raising money share by share and working towards an idea they believed Castlerea needed. What began as a determination to give local farmers a fair marketplace became an institution that would remain part of the Sweeny family’s life for generations.

Councillor for Roscommon LEA

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Email: cllrpﬁtzmaurice@roscommoncoco.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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How Castlerea “I was there Mart began from day one”

Founding member Richard Finan recalls the determination, fundraising and hard work that turned an idea for a local livestock mart into reality 50 years ago

hen Castlerea Mart opened its gates in September 1976, it marked the end of several years of planning, fundraising and persistence by a small group of local farmers who believed the town needed a livestock mart of its own. Richard Finan, Carramore, was there from the beginning. “I was there from day one. I was one of the original founder members,” he recalls. The idea began to gather momentum in the early 1970s, at a time when the traditional livestock fairs were declining and increasing numbers of local farmers were travelling elsewhere to sell their cattle. For farmers in the Castlerea area, that frequently meant a journey to Roscommon Mart — and during the difficult cattle trade of 1974 in particular, Richard remembers just how demanding those days could be. “You’d be leaving Castlerea at one o’clock in the morning and queuing for four or five hours to get into Roscommon,” he says. “It was a real hard trip.” There were nights when committee meetings in Castlerea would finish around midnight, only for farmers involved to begin loading cattle immediately afterwards for the journey to Roscommon. Experiences such as those strengthened the belief that Castlerea needed a mart of its own. Richard recalls that the proposal was not universally welcomed. There was considerable scepticism about whether another mart in the West of Ireland could succeed. “We came up with a lot of opposition at the time,” he says. “They were saying there were too many marts in the West and that it wouldn’t be a viable project.

“But we didn’t give in.” Instead, the group continued to investigate and promote the idea, encouraged by growing support among farmers in the locality. Michael Sweeny, who became chairman of the founding committee, later recorded that the Castlerea branch of the IFA decided in 1973 to proceed with plans for a mart. A local committee was established and advice was sought from the IFA and the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society. The decision was taken to establish the business as a co-operative, with the money required to build it being raised through share capital. The minimum share purchase was £25. There was no grant aid available for construction, and the committee decided that work would not begin until at least £50,000 — the projected cost of the development — had been raised. By the end of 1973, £17,000 had already been secured. Richard remembers the fundraising effort as one of the defining parts of those early years. There were frequent meetings to review progress, while committee members travelled throughout the surrounding countryside seeking support. At first, some farmers were understandably cautious. “We didn’t even have the site secured,” Richard recalls. But as planning progressed, the Fair Green site was secured and people began to see that the Mart could become a reality. “We did a second collection, so people topped up,” he says. “They might have given the £25 share initially and then, when they saw the Mart was going ahead, people came back and gave more.”

Roscommon

Best wishes from the management and staff at Bank of Ireland, Co. Roscommon. Bank of Ireland is regulated by Central Bank of Ireland.

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Best wishes to Castlerea Mart on their 50th Anniversary

Brendan Egan, manager of Castlerea Mart; Richard Finan, a founding member of the mart in 1976; and Seamus Mannion pictured during last Thursday’s busy sales day at Castlerea Mart. The co-operative livestock mart celebrates 50 years in operation this year. Photo: Michael Finan

The Bank House, St. Patrick’s St., Castlerea Email: info@gats.ie

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

From the Fair Green to a new Mart

he site itself already had a long A licence to operate had been authorised by association with livestock trading. the Department of Agriculture that July, and Michael Sweeny Sr recorded that on September 10, Noel Moran was appointed Castlerea’s Fair Green had been as the Mart’s first manager. established in the early 1900s after being Richard was involved in that appointment. He relocated from Knockroe. It became a busy remembers around nine or ten applications centre for livestock trading, with some being received before Noel was chosen for animals transported by rail to Dublin before the position — a decision that proved hugely being shipped to Britain. significant in the years that followed. Noel By the 1950s and 1960s, however, marts would remain manager until the end of 2011. were increasingly replacing the traditional Castlerea Livestock Co-operative Mart finally fairs as the preferred way of selling livestock. opened for business on September 30, 1976. For Richard, one of their greatest The response demonstrated just how strong advantages was transparency. At the old the appetite for a local mart had become. fairs, livestock changed hands through “The first sales were big — really big — and individual deals and it could be difficult for the crowds were big,” Richard remembers. For other farmers to know exactly what prices many people in the locality, simply coming were being achieved. in to see cattle being sold by auction was “At least at the Mart you could stand at something new. “You could see the demand ringside and know how the beast was was there,” he says. going,” he says. The stock was weighed, the bidding took place openly and farmers could see the trade for themselves. “It was a special way to sell cattle,” Richard says. “It was the way to go.” Securing the site was only one part of the challenge. The committee had to negotiate a lease of the Fair Green with Castlerea Town Trust, obtain planning permission and work with planners, engineers, financial institutions Success was not automatic, however. Richard remembers trade becoming difficult and legal advisers. Michael Sweeny Sr recalled meetings during the first few months, particularly in taking place monthly — and at times more the run-up to Christmas 1976. “We struggled frequently — throughout the development for the first six months or so,” he says. “We process. By March 1976, contractors had really struggled.” Then came a sale early in the new year submitted tenders, a main contractor had been appointed and a lease of the Fair Green which Richard still remembers as helping to build confidence in the fledgling Mart. had been agreed. One farmer from the Ballintubber area Construction began on March 1, 1976. By brought September, the new Mart was taking shape. Wishing all of our customers a Merry eight or nine cattle for sale. The

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cattle sold well and, later that evening, the farmer went into a local pub carrying his Follow us on suesboutiquecastlerea sale tickets. FBD-Ad2258-Support-Roscommon-71x50-Jul26-v1.indd 1 14/07/2026 17:19 Pleased with the prices he had received, he passed the tickets around the bar so others could see for themselves how well Main Street , Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45 Y4N8 the cattle had sold. Tel. (094) 962 1234 Richard laughs at the memory. “It was as good as Facebook now,” he says. Word spread quickly. “That type of thing promoted it.” Trade strengthened during the spring and the Mart began to establish itself. Over Open: Monday- Saturday, 10am to 6pm the decades that followed, it continued to grow: additional rings were built, new sheds and facilities were developed and the business expanded far beyond the original operation envisaged by the founders. For Richard, one of the greatest achievements remains the fact that the people behind the project managed to get Contact it built in the first place. BALLINASLOE The share capital raised by local farmers TEL: (090) 96 88606 • (090) 96 88830 • (090) 96 87651 meant that the Mart was substantially funded before it opened its doors. “The Lowest price GUARANTEED Mart was paid for,” he says. “It was a great Daily collection achievement in itself.” Fifty years later, the scale of what Best wishes to Castlerea Mart those founders created is perhaps best demonstrated by the fact that Castlerea Mart remains a major centre for livestock Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from sales and an important part of the economic and social life of the town. What began with late-night meetings, £25 shares and a determination to give local farmers a better way to sell their stock became an institution that has endured for half a century.

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

A day at Castlerea Mart Fifty years after Castlerea Mart ﬁrst opened its doors, sale days remain a familiar ﬁxture in the life of the town and surrounding farming community.

hese photographs capture a typical day at Castlerea Mart as it marks its 50th anniversary — the people, livestock and activity that continue a tradition established in 1976.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

The road to opening day Early 1900s

Castlerea Fair Green is established after being relocated from Knockroe and becomes an important centre for livestock trading.

1950s–1960s

The growth of livestock marts elsewhere leads to a decline in the traditional Fair Green trade.

1973

The decision is taken to pursue the establishment of a livestock mart in Castlerea. A local committee is formed and the project is structured as a co-operative.

End of 1973

£17,000 has been raised through share capital. The minimum share purchase is £25.

1974–1975

Fundraising continues while the committee progresses planning, engineering, legal and ﬁnancial work. No grant aid is available to build the Mart.

March 1, 1976

Construction begins on the Fair Green site.

July 16, 1976

A licence to operate is authorised by the Department of Agriculture.

September 10, 1976

Noel Moran is appointed as the ﬁrst manager.

September 30, 1976

Castlerea Livestock Co-operative Mart opens for business.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

The People behind Castlerea Mart

COUNCILLOR

NIGEL

DINEEN

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MOBILE:: 086 2130723 MOBILE cllrndineen@roscommoncoco.ie Best wishes to Castlerea Mart

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As Castlerea Mart marks 50 years, the contribution of the people who have kept the Mart running day after day is central to its story.

ehind every sale at Castlerea Mart is a team responsible for keeping a busy livestock business moving. Among those who have played an important part in that work are Siobhán Earley, Seamus Mannion and John Cribbon, along with their colleagues across the Mart. Long-serving staff members Siobhán and Seamus spoke to the Roscommon People about the changes they have witnessed, the characters and generations who have passed through the gates, and what it has meant to be part of Castlerea Mart.

PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

Please ring the Constituency Ofﬁce in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.ﬁtzmaurice@oireachtas.ie

Michael Fitzmaurice TD 11 Castle View Terrace , Castle Street, Roscommon. F42Y181 090-6626824 / 090-6628479

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Licence Number 003900

‘There is no other ofﬁce job like it’

Siobhán Earley has worked at Castlerea Mart for 45 years and has watched the business change enormously. “When we started here first, there was only one ring,” she recalls. On the busiest days, sales could run well into the early hours. The addition of a second and later a third ring transformed the working day, while technology has changed almost every part of the office operation. On a busy sale morning, Siobhán and the

Congratulations and continued success to Castlerea Co-Op Livestock Mart

office team are in from around 7.30 am, setting up and testing the online systems before cattle begin arriving. Cards and animal information are processed so buyers can view details before the three sales begin at 11 am. For all the changes, however, she says the people are what have made the job special. “It has been very, very hard work, but it has been very rewarding too,” she says. “The camaraderie between buyers and sellers — there is no other office job like it.” She also sees first-hand the Mart’s social importance. While online bidding is now part of the business, the rings remain busy with people who come as much for the company and conversation as for buying cattle. For some farmers, particularly those living alone, Thursday is an important weekly outing. “My God, Thursday is their day,” Siobhán says. “They’ll have their lunch out, their breakfast out. It’s a great social outing.” Reaching the 50-year milestone, she says, is a source of pride for the staff and the wider town. “It has been a privilege to be part of the Mart and to have reached this 50-year mark.”

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

From opening day to online bidding

Seamus Mannion’s association with Castlerea Mart goes right back to its beginnings. Before the Mart opened, he helped with the effort to raise share capital, travelling with members of the fundraising team around the wider area. Then, aged 21, he worked on the first sale day in 1976. Seamus remembers arriving at around six o’clock that morning, with first manager Noel

Moran organising the staff and experienced mart workers brought in to help the new team find their feet. The crowds were enormous. “It was like county final day,” Seamus recalls. Many cattle were still walked into town, while others arrived in the simple tractor-and-trailer arrangements of the time. The first sale was so busy that it continued until two or three o’clock the following morning. Seamus has since witnessed every major stage in the Mart’s modernisation. Imperial weights gave way to kilograms, blackboards

and chalk were replaced by digital displays, punts changed to euro and, eventually, online bidding became part of everyday sales. “You have to keep with the times,” he says. Today Seamus works as an auctioneer’s clerk, but the social side of the Mart remains as familiar to him as the changes in technology. He has also seen generations of the same families return through the gates. In his own family, he can now count four generations connected with the Mart — from his father, to Seamus himself, to his son and grandchildren. “Four generations,” he says. “It’s nice to see it.”

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DEAD & WORN-OUT ANIMALS Keeping things running smoothly on sales day were Castlerea Mart staff members Patricia Casey, Stephanie Feely, Patrick Rogers and Siobhan Earley, pictured at the mart last Thursday. Photo: Michael Finan

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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS! FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

PLEASE NOTE Bullock Sale will resume on Monday 14th of September

Forthcoming Events: In conjunction with our 50th Anniversary A Mass of Remembrance will be held in Ring One on Tuesday the 1st of September at 7 p.m. All are invited and refreshments will be served afterwards.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2015

CLAFFEY GANNON Mart great Nicola‘A proving funeral business & CO SOLICITORS is no longer male-dominated! boost’ to Castlerea Women In Business & Public Life

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McDonagh Funeral Directors, Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2015 45 Roscommon May 2015 He saidPeople theFriday eff22ect extended beyond ocal councillor 45 legal advice in the Offering specialist Castlerea, is a family-run Paschal Women In Business & Public Life those actually buying or selling Fitzmaurice has described Women In Business & Public Life following areas: • Personal Injury Litigation business, operated by siblings livestock, with people coming to Castlerea Mart’s 50th anniversary Pat and Nicola McDonagh • Conveyancing • Probate • Employment Law

Castlerea funeral to watch the trade, meet • Criminal Law • Family Law Nicola proving business others, eat locally and do their CONTACT US TODAY FOR A shopping. isIno longer male-dominated! COMPETITIVE QUOTE Cllr Fitzmaurice also highlighted the

as a major achievement says fusing conceptand for children, I take great interest in supporting chilits successn has benefi town. 2006, the business ted was the dren asentire I can understand from my passed down from their fa- childhood that children like adults ther, Dick McDonagh, who need closure equally. He said thesuddenly Mart has“Ifcontinued to passed away last Nowe don’t give the children the vember. closure which is age and stage apattract farmers and buyers from across Nicola said: “Traditionally, the propriate, it can make grieving for McDonagh Funeral Directors, funeral business was taken forDirectors, all involved more difcult. McDonagh Funeral Roscommon and neighbouring granted as been aa male-dominated Castlerea, is family-run “I am acutelycounties aware that bereaveCastlerea, profession. is a family-run is a life-changing event for business, operated by ment siblings and has gone “from strength to strength” “However, in recent decades, this loved ones left behind. While business, operated by siblings notionNicola has been challenged by the every loss is individual, each is Pat and McDonagh Pat and Nicola McDonagh growing number of females enter- unique and different.” over the years. ing the profession. Nicola deals with each death in a “Their presence has undoubtedly sensitive manner. Cllr Fitzmaurice enhanced the service provided and has “My side fi ofrst-hand the business is to added a new dimension in terms provide an environment to asexperience the economic impact ofand of empathy,of support and detail. sist all families in reecting “Since taking on the role of fu- celebrating the life of their loved neral directors, we have overseen mart days, having previously one, in orderoperated to provide a funeral the upgrade of the funeral home service of remembrance that is as a custom-designed funeral uniqueclose as the individual who has a fruit into and vegetable shop to the facility.” passed,” she said. She added: “We provide a 24/7 “This is essentially what sets us Fair Green. funeral service all year round. I apart. take personal pride in our atten“I feel honoured to be given the tion to detail. “Farmers who were inopportunity selling cattle by families to take “I have introduced many new in- care of their loved one during this novations to the business, includ- produce sad time.” came out and bought off me, ” ing personalised Mass booklets and our“It annual memorial he recalls. was a service huge “We benefi t toa 24/7 me, provide for the deceased and their loved funeral service all but alsoones.” to the other shops.year ” round. Dealing with death can be a parI take Eoghan Young Mprhy

Eoghan Young Mprhy fusing concept for children, I take Eoghan Young Mprhy fusinginterest conceptin forsupporting children, I chiltake great n 2006, the business was great as interest in supporting dren I can understand fromchilmy n 2006,down the from business passed theirwas fadren as I can understand from my childhood that children like adults passed down from theirwho father, Dick McDonagh, childhood that children like adults need closure equally. ther, Dicksuddenly McDonagh, passed away last who Noneed closure “If we don’tequally. give the children the passed away suddenly last November. “If we which don’t give the children the closure is age and stage apvember. Nicola said: “Traditionally, the closure which ismake age and stage appropriate, it can grieving for Nicolabusiness said: “Traditionally, funeral was taken the for propriate, it can make for all involved more difgrieving cult. funeral as business was taken for granted been a male-dominated all more dif cult. “Iinvolved am acutely aware that bereavegranted as been a male-dominated profession. “I amisacutely aware thatevent bereavement a life-changing for profession. “However, in recent decades, this ment isones a life-changing event for loved left behind. While “However, in recent decades, notion has been challenged by this the loved loss onesis left behind. each While every individual, is notion has been challenged the growing number of femalesby enterevery loss is individual, each is unique and different.” growing number of females entering the profession. unique different.” Nicolaand deals with each death in a ing the profession. “Their presence has undoubtedly Nicola deals with each death in a sensitive manner. “Their presence hasprovided undoubtedly enhanced the service and sensitive manner. “My side of the business is to enhanced the service provided and added a new dimension in terms “My side the business to provide an of environment toisasadded a new dimension in terms of empathy, support and detail. provide an environment to and assist all families in reecting of“Since empathy, support androle detail. taking on the of fusist all families in re ecting and celebrating the life of their loved “Since taking we on have the role of funeral directors, overseen celebrating the of their loved one, in order tolife provide a funeral neral directors, overseen the upgrade of we the have funeral home one, in order to provide a funeral service of remembrance that is as the upgrade of the funeralfuneral home into a custom-designed service as of the remembrance as unique individual that whoishas into a custom-designed funeral facility.” unique as thesaid. individual who has passed,” she facility.” She added: “We provide a 24/7 passed,” said. “This isshe essentially what sets us She added: “We a 24/7 funeral service all provide year round. I “This is essentially what sets us apart. funeral servicepride all year round. I take personal in our attenapart. “I feel honoured to be given the take to personal tion detail. pride in our atten“I feel honoured to be given the opportunity by families to take ticular challenge for inyoungsters, tion to detail. “I have introduced many new opportunity by families to take care of their loved one during this “I have introduced many in- aware novations tosomething the business, includcaretime.” of their loved one during this sad Nicolanew is keenly novations to the business, including personalised Mass booklets sad time.” of. ing our personalised Mass booklets and annual memorial service “We provide a 24/7 She memorial said: death can be a conand the our deceased annual service for and“As their loved “We provide a 24/7 funeral service all for the deceased and their loved ones.” funeral service all ones.” Dealing with death can be a paryear round. I take Dealing with death be a particular challenge forcan youngsters, year round. take personal prideI in our ticular challenge forkeenly youngsters, something Nicola is aware personal pride in our attention to detail.” something Nicola is keenly aware of. attention to detail.” of. She said: “As death can be a conShe said: “As death can be a con-

I I

Mart’s wider community role, including making its grounds and facilities available to the Castlerea Rose Festival and Castlerea Agricultural Show. He paid tribute to the original committee whose vision established the co-operative, as well as successive committees, management, staff and farmers who have supported it. “It’s been a huge success, and the town has benefited hugely from that,” he said.

personal pride in our attention to detail.”

Nicola McDonagh at McDonagh’s Funeral Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart on their 50th Anniversary

Nicola McDonagh at McDonagh’s Funeral Home. Picture: Andrew Fox Nicola McDonagh at McDonagh’s Funeral Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

Congratulations and Continued Success to Castlerea Mart from

Dates for your Diary: FRIDAY OCTOBER 23rd

MONDAY NOVEMBER 16th

Autumn Sale – All Breeds Bulls & Heifers Entries Close September 10th

CARRICK on SHANNON WINTER FAIR Show & Sale of Senior Stock & Bull Weanlings

SUNDAY / MONDAY NOVEMBER 22nd & 23rd

FRIDAY DECEMBER 11th Elite Continental Show & Sale

CARRICK on SHANNON WINTER FAIR Show & Sale of Heifer Weanlings

ENTER ONLINE: midlandwesternlivestock.com

email:midlandandwestern@gmail.com

The Demesne, Roscommon TheThe Demesne, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Demesne,Castlerea, Castlerea, Co. Co. Roscommon Tel/Fax: 094 9620216 Email: mcdonaghfuneraldirectors@gmail.com Tel/Fax: 094 9620216 Email: mcdonaghfuneraldirectors@gmail.com Mobile: Nicola 087 9290006 Pat 086 2747813 Tel/Fax: 094 9620216 Email: mcdonaghfuneraldirectors@gmail.com Mobile: Nicola 087 9290006 Pat 086 2747813

Mobile: Nicola 087 9290006 Pat 086 2747813

Congratulations to Castlerea Mart on their 50th Anniversary ACCOUNTANCY | PLANNING | ADVICE

Nicola McDonagh with her brother Pat. Picture: Andrew Fox Nicola McDonagh with her brother Pat. Picture: Andrew Fox

Nicola McDonagh with her brother Pat. Picture: Andrew Fox

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart

More than tax. Ifac work with farmers to plan for their future, from business structure to college fees, succession and retirement.

Whatever you’re facing We’re here to listen Call free day or night on

116 123

samaritans.ie 50 years advising farmers, call us today on 090 662 6599 or visit ifac.ie

Registered charity number 20033668

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

PADRAIC DURKAN & ASSOCIATES Main Street, Elphin, Co Roscommon Agricultural Consultants & Financial Advisors

(Farm Accounts & Financial Planning)

For further information contact OFFICE on 071 9630037 Email: padraic.durkan1@gmail.com

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

Mart has been more than a place of business – Fitzmaurice

ndependent Ireland TD and local farmer Michael Fitzmaurice says Castlerea Mart has made an important economic and social contribution to the community throughout its 50 years. Deputy Fitzmaurice, who worked at the Mart during the 1980s, said it had always been an important part of local life and paid tribute to current manager Brendan Egan and former manager Noel Moran for their stewardship. He believes the Mart’s value extends well beyond the livestock trade. “Castlerea Mart was a ‘men’s shed’ long before they became part of communities

around the country,” he said. He pointed in particular to farmers living alone who come to the Mart each week, not only to follow cattle prices but to have lunch and meet other farmers. “They might be the only people they would meet until the next week,” he said. “It has made a huge positive contribution to the wellbeing of the community in that way, and it is still happening today.” Congratulating everyone associated with Castlerea Mart on its 50th anniversary, Deputy Fitzmaurice said he had no doubt it would remain an important part of the local community for many years to come.

Good luck to the Castlerea Mart from

The Square, Castlerea Tel: 094 96 20028 Your visit to Castlerea would not be complete without a visit to our unique shop! A visit is an experience! Roscommon‘s largest retailer of Fishing Tackle, Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Spinners Spoons, Fly’s Reel’s, Shooting Equipment and Tents. Inland Fisheries Permits, Pocket Knives, Binoculars, Wallets, Watches etc . . . Wellingtons, Waders and Buoyancy Aids. Pet Rabbit, Pigeon, Parrot, Wild Bird Seed and Goldfish Food. Also, Goldfish Aquariums and Bowls, Rabbit Hutches, Bird Cages and Bird Tables etc . . .

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

Suppliers of: Farm Machinery • Lubricants • Tools • Cleaning Supplies and more . . . Ballindrimley Rd, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Tel: +353 86 059 7771 Email: igoeagri@gmail.com Web: www.igoeagri.com Congratultions and wishing every success in the future to Castlerea Mart from Breege, Ollie and all the staff at

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

Hesters Golden Eagle

MICHAEL COONEY & SONS LTD

Homevalue

Brianna Higgins, Michael Higgins and Martin Geraghty pictured ringside during the weekly livestock sale at Castlerea Mart last Thursday. Photo: Michael Finan

Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (094) 96 20101 www.hestersrestaurant.com

Tibohine, Frenchpark Frenchpark: Tel: 094 98 70007

or follow us on Facebook

Elphin: Tel: 071 96 35470 Castlerea: Tel: 094 96 20033 Athenry: Tel: (091) 844174 Crossmolina Rd., Ballina: Tel: (096) 74939 Email: info@cooneys.ie

Bar & Restaurant

John Finnegan, Callum Hayden and Michael Finnegan pictured enjoying the atmosphere at Castlerea Mart during last Thursday’s sales day. Photo: Michael Finan

• Restaurant dining capacity of 140 persons • Bar and restaurant is fully air conditioned • Complimentary Wi Fi • 6 TVs for all the big sporting occasions • Covered smoking area and spacious beer garden • Wheelchair Accessible • Baby changing facilities

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from SHEEP SALES SATURDAYS @ 10am

CATTLE SALES FRIDAYS @ 6pm

Hogget Show & Sale Saturday 5th of September 2026

Categories: Best Pen of 10, Suffolk Cross, Texel Cross & Other Breeds

Ewe Lamb Show & Sale Saturday 12th of September 2026 Categories: Best Pen of 10, Suffolk Cross, Texel Cross & other breeds

Cattle Sales

Resume on Friday 4th September @ 6pm Gates open at 4pm Booking: (090) 967 9660

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

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

Friday 28th August @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers. Also Dry Cows & Bullocks

--------------------------Friday 4th September @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks. Also Dry Cows & Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday 31st August @ 5 p.m. --------------------------Friday 11th September @ 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers. Also Dry Cows & Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Monday 7th September @ 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. Saturday 29th August @ 11 a.m.

Sale of Breeding Ewes and Hoggets

Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m --------------------------Saturday 29th August

Lleyn Sheep Society Sale – at 12.30pm *******************

Irish Vendéen Sheep Society Sale

oscommon IFA extends heartiest congratulations to Castlerea Mart on its 50th Anniversary. This is a wonderful milestone achieved through the hard work, dedication and commitment of management, staff and volunteer committee members and all those who have served the mart over the last 50 years. It is great to see Castlerea Mart go from strength to strength under the stewardship of Manager Brendan Egan, his staff and the hard working committee. Castlerea Mart has grown and developed over the years from the original fair day, which the older generations would still remember, to the establishment of the mart itself and the development of the modern facilities that exist today. Livestock marts are unique in that they offer farmers real time market value for their livestock. Marts guarantee security of payment for the seller which reduces financial risk compared to private sales. Castlerea Mart and others in County Roscommon offer an economic boost to the local towns in which they operate. In addition, marts provide a social outlet for farmers, whether that is to get their breakfast or dinner in the mart canteen on sale day or meeting with friends and neighbours for a chat. Suckler farming is the cornerstone of farming in the west of Ireland. County Roscommon is renowned for producing the best cattle in the country. Suckler farming is continually under pressure from a number of factors including an aging farmer population, income pressure, erosion of support and payments and an enhanced focus on environmental schemes and increased regulation. Castlerea Mart offers a valuable outlet and route to the market for farmers for their livestock. According to Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) studies, every €1 of support invested

Organic Cattle Sale

Wishing all the best to Castlerea Mart on their 50th Anniversary

CASTLEREA VETERINARY CLINIC

Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon in the beef and livestock sector underpins over €4 in output across the broader Irish Tel: 094 962 0061 economy. This emphasises the ongoing Email: castlereaveterinaryclinic@gmail.com IFA campaign for more direct financial support for suckler farmers. I remember attending the mart in Castlerea from a young age with my father. It is wonderful to witness how Castlerea Mart has developed and grown over the decades including the introduction of online bidding most recently. The 50th anniversary celebrations are important to remember and acknowledge all those living and deceased who have been part of the development journey of the mart to the present day. Roscommon IFA continues to work and 01 6184507 gareth.scahill@oireachtas.ie advocate on behalf of farmers. The next @garethscahillfg two years will be foundational in terms of farming and the future of the family farm. The CAP budget and proposed cuts Congratulations to CastlereaMART Mart from the EU, if implemented, will be a DRUMSHANBO big challenge for all family farms. There is a growing global need for high quality, PLC traceable food. The future for farming can be a positive one with Castlerea Mart DRUMSHANBO Auctioneers, Valuers &ValuersMART Auctioneers, being a key facilitator of access to the Livestock&Salesmen market for farmers. Livestock Salesmen PLC Congratulations and continued success to Castlerea Mart from all in Roscommon CATTLE SALES Auctioneers, Valuers & CATTLE SALE EVERY FRIDAY IFA. th Livestock Salesmen Friday 30 August Sep. at 7.00 pm pm Friday 28th at 7.00

Seán Finan, Ballinlough, Castlerea Chairman of Roscommon IFA

Mass of Remembrance As part of Castlerea Mart’s 50th anniversary celebrations, a Mass of Remembrance will be held at Castlerea Mart on Tuesday, September 1 at 7 pm.

– at 2pm --------------------------Saturday 5th September @ 11 a.m.

DRUMSHANBO MART PLC

Ring Dry Cows, Sucklers and CATTLE SALES Ring1:1: Dry Cows, Sucklers andIn-calf In-calfCows Cows Ring 2: Factory and Store Heifers th Ring 2: Weanling and Drypm Heifers FridayHeifers 30 Sep. at 7.00 Ring3: 3: Weanling Bulls andand Bullocks Ring Bulls and Bullocks Ring 1: Dry Cows, Sucklers In-calf Cows

2: Factory Store Heifers **ALLRing ANIMALS MUST and HAVE 2 TAGS TO ENTER THE MART** Ring 3: Weanling Bulls and Bullocks with normal sale AUTUMN SH/SHX SALE in conjunction

SHEEP SALE EVERY THURSDAY AUTUMN SH/SHX SALE in conjunction with normal sale SHEEP SHOW & SALESALE OF LAMBS SHEEP Thursday 27th 12.00 noon Thursday 29th August Sep. SALE at at 12.00 noon Thursday 29th Sep. at 12.00 noon

Sale of Store and Fat Lambs,&Breeding EwesEWES and Rams ANNUAL SHOW SALE OF Sale of Store and Fat Lambs, Breeding Ewes and Rams

Thursday 10th September at 12.00 noon

SHOWS SHOWS& & SALES SALES

thSALE HORSE,BULLS PONY WEANLING BULLS& DONKEY Tue. 2022 WEANLING Tue.4th4Oct Oct 2022 Saturday HEIFERS 29th August at 11.00 am WEANLING WEANLING HEIFERS th & STRONG HEIFERS Tue. 11for Oct sales 2022 Phone the Mart Offi ce to book animals & STRONG HEIFERS Tue. 11thallOct 2022

Drumshanbo Mart PLC

Drumshanbo Mart PLC PSRA Licence No: 003868

Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim K41 KH61 Drumshanbo PLC Drumshanbo Co Mart Leitrim K41 KH61 Phone: 071No: 9641116 /7 PSRA071 Licence 003868 Phone: 9641116/7 Mobile: 086 839 2568 Mobile: 839 2568 Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com Drumshanbo Co086 Leitrim K41 KH61 www.drumshanbomart.ie Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com Phone: 071 9641116/7 Mobile: 086 839 2568 www.drumshanbomart.ie Email: drumshanbomart@gmail.com PSRA Licence No: 003868

www.drumshanbomart.ie

DOWNLOAD THE MARTBIDS APP TO VIEW SALE AND DOWNLOADREGISTER THE MARTBIDS APP TO BID

TO VIEW SALE AND REGISTER TO BID

FOLLOW THE MART ON FACEBOOK

Best wishes to Castlerea Mart from

Castlerea Celtic

The Mass will remember all those who have contributed to the Mart since its establishment in 1976.

Bookings now being accepted

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Roscommon IFA congratulates Castlerea Mart on its 50th Anniversary milestone

Find us on facebook

Anyone with a connection to Castlerea Mart, past or present, is warmly invited to attend.

Tel: 087 337 7700 | 087 337 7700 castlereacelticfc@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

FarmingPeople

IRISH ANGUS CATTLE SOCIETY

IRISH ANGUS

Venue: Strokestown Show

Saturday 12th th of September

Saturday 8 September

All Ireland and YDP Showmanship Awards

st Entries 4th1September Entriesclose Close September

PRIZE €15,000 PRIZEFUND: FUND €11,000

For information contact 

Irish Angus Cattle Society



Tel: 071-962 0253/962 0340



Email: ofﬁce@irishangus.ie

Fodder pressures emerge across West as farmers urged to assess winter supplies

Farmers in Roscommon and across the West are being urged to assess winter fodder supplies following a national survey which found significant variation in feed availability after a prolonged period of dry weather. The latest Teagasc Fodder Survey groups Roscommon with Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal in the Northwest region. In that region, 12 per cent of farms reported a feed surplus and a further 34 per cent were on target for winter requirements. However, 27 per cent had a deficit of less than 10 per cent, while 17 per cent were facing deficits of between 10 and 20 per cent. A further 10 per cent reported deficits greater than 20 per cent. This means 27 per cent of farms surveyed in the Northwest were facing fodder deficits of at least 10 per cent. The position in the West is less severe than in the Southeast, where 40 per cent of farms were in the two highest-risk deficit categories. In the Northwest, the equivalent figure was 27 per cent. Nationally, 42 per cent of dairy and drystock farms were reported to have adequate or surplus

winter feed, while another 27 per cent were within 10 per cent of their target. Nineteen per cent had deficits of between 10 and 20 per cent and 12 per cent had deficits exceeding 20 per cent. Teagasc said farms had an average of approximately 140 days of feed available, although there was significant variation between individual holdings. The survey was carried out in early August, after most planned second silage cuts would normally have been completed. However, drought conditions meant a second cut did not materialise on a number of participating farms. Joe Patton, Teagasc survey co-ordinator, said this year’s results pointed to tighter feed supplies nationally than in recent years. “Our returns show a tighter supply of feed nationally compared to recent years,” he said, adding that farmers should review their individual position in good time. The findings were presented to a meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee on Friday, August 21st. The committee said farmers at risk of a winter

shortfall should complete a fodder budget now and consider how much feed will be required through the autumn and winter housing period. It also advised farmers with limited supplies to identify possible sources of silage, hay, straw or suitable alternative feeds early, while managing autumn grass carefully as growth recovers. The committee also highlighted the need to plan slurry applications following additional summer housing on some farms, and advised farmers facing higher feed costs to consider the potential impact on cashﬂow. Separately, the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association has called for additional Government measures to increase the availability and movement of fodder. ICSA Rural Development chair Edmond Phelan said a new fodder transport scheme should be introduced with a distance threshold of around 20 to 25 kilometres. He argued that reducing the distance requirement used under previous schemes would make it easier to move available fodder between neighbouring areas. The ICSA has also called for support for the production of additional fodder through catch crops and suggested that Teagasc could assist in linking livestock farmers requiring feed with tillage farmers capable of producing it. Mr Phelan also called for consideration of a derogation for some tillage land currently included in ACRES overwinter stubble measures, which he said could potentially be used to grow catch crops for fodder. “We need to look at every practical option now,” he said. “Many farmers are already drawing heavily on their winter fodder and if that continues, supplies could be seriously depleted by Christmas.”

Generational Renewal Week to focus on future of family farms

Michael Doorley, Cloonmurray, Strokestown, pictured with Cloonmurray Boss Man, Reserve Champion in Class B of the Irish Angus Dunleavy Meats Bull Calf Championships at Moate Show on August 23rd, 2026. Also pictured are judge Martin Mulcahy and Gerry Killgallon, President of the Irish Angus Cattle Society.

Farm succession, retirement planning and opportunities for younger farmers will be among the issues highlighted during Teagasc Generational Renewal Week next month. The initiative will run from Monday, September 7th to Friday, September 11th and will include webinars, farm walks and other events. Topics will include farm succession and transfer, education and career opportunities, pensions, business planning, access to ﬁnance and collaborative farming arrangements. Teagasc said the week is intended to provide information for farm families considering the future management and ownership of their businesses.

Roscommon MART WATCH Cattle: We had a good entry of stock on offer at Friday’s sale with a strong trade for both Bullocks and Stripper Cows. Bullocks achieved an average of €4.17 per kilo up to 5.50 per Kilo. There was a good entry of Dry Cows and they made an average of €3.33 per kilo up to €3.80 per kilo. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also very active. Dry Cows ranged from an average of €3.33 per kilo up to €3.80 per kilo – 1X HEX – 845KG - €2880 - €3.41 PER KG – 1X LMX - 740KG - €2780- €3.76 PER KG – 1X CHX – 765KG - €2460 - €3.22 PER KG – 1X PTX – 600KG - €2280 - €3.80 PER KG – 1X IM – 570KG - €1320 - €2.32 PER KG – Bullocks ranged from an average of €4.17 per kilo up to €5.50 per kilo – 2X CHX - 360KG - €1980 - €5.50 PER KG – 1X CHX –770KG - €3390 - €4.40 PER KG – 1X LMX – 575KG - €2700 - €4.70 PER KG – 1X BBX - 490KG €2490 - €5.08 PER KG – 1X AAX - 660KG - €2440 - €3.70 PER KG – 1X HEX -660KG - €2430 - €3.68 PER KG – 1X BAX - 635KG - €2420 - €3.81 PER KG Sheep: We had a super entry of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Spring Lambs and Stag Ewes. Prices for Spring Lambs made up to €188, while Stag Ewes topped out at €260. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Yard opens at 8 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m. Sale can be viewed live on www. marteye.ie – Spring Lambs – 53.5kgs - €188 - €3.51 Per Kg – 53.7kgs - €185 - €3.45 Per Kg – 51.7Kgs - €185 €3.58 Per Kg – 61.0Kgs - €184 – €3.02 Per Kg – 51.1Kgs - €180 – €3.52 Per Kg – 50.1kgs - €180 – €3.59 Per Kg – Cast Ewes – 101kgs - €260 - €2.57 Per Kg – 95kgs - €252 - €2.65 Per Kg – 113.6kgs - €250 - €2.20 Per Kg – 97.7kgs - €250 - €2.56 Per Kg – 96kgs - €248 - €2.58 Per Kg – 100kgs - €224 - €2.24 Per Kg Weanlings: There was a very super entry of super quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday evening with a strong and lively trade for both Bulls and Heifers. Bull Weanlings fetched from an average of €4.78 per kilo up to €6.15 per kilo. Heifer Weanlings made from an average of €4.25 per kilo up to €5.31 per kilo There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active. – Bull Weanlings ranged from an average of €4.78 per kilo up to €6.15 per kilo. 1X CHX – 330KG - €2030 - €6.15 Per Kg – 1X LMX- 430KG - €2390 - €5.56 Per Kg – 1X BBX- 455KG - €2300 - €5.05 Per Kg – 1 X SIX - 390KG - €2050 - €5.26 Per Kg – 1X AAX - 430KG - €1740- €4.05 Per Kg – 1X SAX – 365KG - €1600 - €4.38 Per Kg – 1X LMX - 375KG - €2220 - €5.92 Per Kg Heifer Weanlings ranged from an average of €4.25 per kilo up to €5.31 per kilo. – 1X BBX -320KG -€1700€5.31 Per Kg – 1X CHX -365KG-€1660-€4.55 Per Kg – 1X-LMX – 335KG- €1200 - €3.58 Per Kg – 1X-AUX 310KG- €1000- €3.23 Per Kg – 1X-CHX – 445KG - €1660 - €3.73 Per Kg – 1X-LMX– 350KG - €1640 - €4.69 Per Kg

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

OUT& OUT &ABOUT

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

Michael English at Glenamaddy Festival 2026 Photos: Michael Finan

Mary O’Rourke, Margaret O’Rourke and Patrick O’Rourke pictured at St Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy, ahead of Michael English’s performance at the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday, August 24. Josephine Ward and Kitesy Kelly from Creggs enjoying the atmosphere at Michael English’s concert in St Patrick’s Church during the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday evening.

Teresa Burke and Breda Burke pictured at St Patrick’s Church in Glenamaddy for Michael English’s festival performance on Monday, August 24.

Helen Tully, Saoirse Shanks and Sinead Shanks pictured before Michael English took to the stage at St Patrick’s Church as part of the Glenamaddy Festival. Twin sisters Ann Breheny from Claregalway and Francis Keaveney from Glenamaddy pictured at Michael English’s concert in St Patrick’s Church on Monday evening.

Michael English performing in the unique surroundings of St Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy, during his concert at the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday evening.

Michael English entertaining the crowd at St Patrick’s Church in Glenamaddy as part of the 2026 Glenamaddy Festival programme on Monday, August 24

Fr Manthaiah Pudota addressing those gathered in St Patrick’s Church ahead of Michael English’s performance at the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday, August 24.

Michael English performing in the unique surroundings of St Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy, during his concert at the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday evening.

Andrea Connolly, Angela Cunniffe, Catherine Harte, Padraig Raftery, Michael English, Fr Manthaiah Pudota, Joe Cunniffe and Sarah Raftery, members and supporters of the Glenamaddy Residents and Traders Association, pictured with Michael English following his performance at St Patrick’s Church.

Fr Manthaiah Pudota addressing those gathered in St Patrick’s Church ahead of Michael English’s performance at the Glenamaddy Festival on Monday, August 24.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

OUT& OUT &ABOUT

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

Mountbellew Agricultural Show Photos: Michael Finan

Kayla Flynn and Clara O’Shea pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College

Participants of the Mountbellew Agricultural Show pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday

Pictured on the pony rides at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday

Participants of the Mountbellew Agricultural Show pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday

Cait and Aine Kelly pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College

Kieva Ryan from Ballinsloe, first place in best wool, pictured with the judges of the Mountbellew Agricultural Show, John Grainy and Gerry Killala

Teresa Roche (IFA), Emer Flynn, Olivia McHugh and Olive McHugh

Graine O’Sullivan, Aubrey Daly, Dennis Creghan, Daire Creghan and Rosin Creghan pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College Photo: Michael Finan

Participants of the Mountbellew Agricultural Show young handlers’ class with the judges of the Mountbellew Agricultural Show, John Grainy, Gerry Killala, Teresa Roche (IFA), Olive McHugh

Jodie Byrne 1st place in the 153 working hunter class pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College

Carolyn Roche, JJ Roche, Una Belle Roche and Laureen Murphy pictured at the Mountbellew Agricultural Show last Saturday at Mountbellew Agricultural College

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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

Fire, circus and music Traditional music duo bring ‘Chunky Business’ to Gurteen at Motion Chapel Traditional musicians Gary Curley and Stephen McKee will perform at the Coleman Music Centre in Gurteen, Co. Sligo, on Saturday, September 5th at 8 pm. Admission is €15. The duo combine accordion and banjo and released their debut album, Chunky Business, in 2025. The recording draws on the Ulster traditional music scene while also incorporating influences from across Ireland. Recorded in Gary Curley’s home studio, the album features reels, jigs and hornpipes, including compositions by Vincent Broderick, Liz Carroll, Paddy O’Brien and Máirtín O’Connor. Curley, from Boho, Co. Fermanagh, is a button accordionist and music teacher, while McKee, from Draperstown, Co. Derry, is a multi-instrumentalist best known for tenor banjo. Bookings can be made through the Coleman Music Centre on 071 9182599 or online.

Giant puppetry, aerial circus, fire performance and live music will feature at Motion Chapel in Granlahan, Co. Roscommon, as part of Culture Night Late on Friday, September 18th. The event begins at 9 pm with Ephemera, an outdoor production by Irish spectacle company VolkiDána. The performance combines giant puppetry, aerial acrobatics, dance, fire and procession, and follows the story of an ancient deity awakening for a final journey across the earth. The evening will also include performances from Cikada Circus and storyteller Daniel

Galvin. From 11 pm, the event will move indoors, where disco-punk live-looping artist Death Milkshake will perform. Motion Chapel is a new arts organisation focused on contemporary circus in County Roscommon. Based in a restored monastery in Granlahan, it is developing a year-round space for circus creation, training and performance. Food will be available on the night from MK Bía, while Brewpoint Coffee will also be on site. The event is free to attend, but advance booking is required.

Watercolour class raises funds for animal welfare centre Local artist Mike Taylor raised €240 for the Leitrim Animal Welfare Centre through a fundraising watercolour painting class held on Saturday, August 15th. Taylor hosted two groups on the day, raising

€120 through the painting sessions, with a further €120 generated from the sale of greeting cards featuring his artwork. All proceeds from the event went to the Leitrim Animal Welfare Centre.

Roscommon artist shortlisted for AIB Portrait Prize Roscommon artist Joe Caslin has been shortlisted for the prestigious AIB Portrait Prize 2026 at the National Gallery of Ireland. Caslin, from Ardnanagh in Roscommon town, is among 26 artists selected from hundreds of entries from across the country. His shortlisted work, Seen, is a portrait created using pencil and digital drawing on paper. The shortlist features work across a range of media, including painting, photography, video, pastel and mixed media. The overall winner of the AIB Portrait Prize will receive €15,000 and will also be commissioned to create a work for the National Portrait Collection, receiving a further €5,000. Two highly commended artists will each receive €1,500. This year’s judging panel comprises artist and TU Dublin lecturer Dr Brian Fay; Christina Kennedy, Senior Curator and Head of Collections at the Irish Museum of Modern Art; and art historian Dr Joseph McBrinn of Belfast School of Art. The shortlisted works will go on display at the National Gallery of Ireland from November 14th, 2026, until March 14th, 2027, alongside the shortlisted entries in the AIB Young Portrait Prize. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in the Gallery on December 2nd. Following the Dublin exhibition, the works will travel to Galway Arts Centre from April 3rd to June 27th, 2027, before moving to Limerick City Gallery of Art from July 9th to August 15th. Dr Caroline Campbell, Director of the National Gallery of Ireland, said the shortlist demonstrated “an incredible breadth of Irish artistic talent”, adding that the Gallery was looking forward to presenting the exhibitions later this year. Joe Caslin is an internationally recognised street artist, illustrator and art teacher, known particularly for his large-scale monochrome drawings and public installations.

BUSINESS NEWS Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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

The real cost of keeping a business open in Roscommon < BY KARLA BROWNE

Keeping a business open in Roscommon has always meant keeping a close eye on the books. But for local business owners, the past few years have brought rising costs on almost every front — from electricity and wages to stock, packaging, maintenance and transport. At Molloys Bakery, owner Declan Molloy says the cost of ingredients is one of the biggest pressures, with global events and climate change increasingly affecting what businesses pay. “War and climate change would be the two big ones,” he says, pointing to rising oil and ingredient costs, and the impact of poor growing conditions on future crops. Electricity has always been a major expense, and it continues to place pressure on businesses. At local butchers Maddens Meats, refrigeration is essential, meaning energy costs cannot simply be avoided. “Electricity would be a huge factor, especially running a shop where you’re solely dependent on ESB,” says owner Tom Madden. “Temperatures have to constantly be kept cool.” Even packaging has become noticeably more expensive. Madden says each small tray used by the business can cost an additional 20 cents. “You could buy 200, 300 trays… it all adds up,” he says. Wages are another pressure. Madden says finding staff in the butchering trade is difficult, while higher wages also contribute to the overall cost of doing business. “It’s a hard job. It’s on your feet, it’s long hours, and so it is hard. Plus wages have gone up as well. When the wages go up, people must realise it means that prices go up as well.” At McGuinness Pharmacy, employee wages, electricity and equipment maintenance are among the biggest expenses. “We’ve got to pay for maintenance, that service fee every year, and that’s creeping up as

the years go on.” The business has invested in solar panels to help reduce electricity costs, but rising expenses have also put pressure on its ability to increase pay. “We try not to affect our staff as much as possible,” a spokesperson said. “We haven’t let anyone go. We haven’t reduced hours either.” At Donnellan & Co, the rising cost of stock has meant some price increases have been unavoidable. However, Niall Donnellan says the challenge is no longer simply competing with other local shops. “Trading locally is definitely becoming both harder and different,” he says, pointing to competition from businesses around the country and the growth of online shopping — something that would not have been a major factor 10 years ago. For these businesses, rising costs are therefore only part of the challenge. They are also operating in a market where customers have more choice than ever. Declan Molloy believes small rural businesses are carrying a burden that is often overlooked. “A small business in rural Ireland… has the same legislation and bureaucracy that, I’d say, Kerry Group, which is a massive multimillion group, has. The Government needs to realise that small businesses in rural Ireland are not the same as the big businesses, the multinationals,” he says. “I think it’s quite unfair to the small, local businesses to have to match the same criteria as those big ones.” Despite the pressures, the local connection remains strong, and is something that most bigger companies cannot replicate. Madden says looking after customers is key to competing with larger businesses. “You have to stand out on your own, look after your clients,” he says. “That’s the whole secret at the moment.” Niall Donnellan also believes the VAT burden

on businesses needs to be addressed. “The restaurants and all of them got a bit of help there. They got theirs brought down. We’re still very high at 23 per cent,” he said. Declan Molloy, meanwhile, said he would like to see greater Government awareness of the realities facing businesses outside Dublin, arguing that more direct engagement with rural areas would help policymakers understand the pressures they face. For Roscommon’s small businesses, personal connection may be their greatest asset. But with costs continuing to rise and competition extending far beyond the town centre, keeping the doors open is becoming an increasingly expensive balancing act.

Roscommon designer shortlisted for Irish Made Award Roscommon-based designer Úna Burke has been shortlisted in the 2026 Irish Made Awards, organised by Irish Country Magazine. Úna Burke is among the finalists in the Accessories category of this year’s awards, which celebrate Irish makers, designers and producers. The leather designer returned to her native County Roscommon in 2020 after establishing her business in London. Her distinctive pieces are made using traditional leather-working techniques, with the brand selling to customers in Ireland and internationally. Burke has previously enjoyed success in the Irish Made Awards, winning the Fashion category in 2020 and the Accessories category in 2021. The awards are celebrating their tenth anniversary this year, with finalists selected across a range of categories including fashion, jewellery, home, food, drink and gifts. Public voting is now open, with the winners due to be announced at an awards ceremony at The Johnstown Estate in Co. Meath on Wednesday, September 30th.

Irish exports to US fall 65% in first half of 2026 The value of Irish goods exports to the United States fell by almost two-thirds in the first six months of 2026, according to the Central Statistics Office. Exports to the US were valued at €26.2 billion between January and June, down €48.9 billion, or 65.1%, from €75.1 billion during the same period in 2025. Overall Irish goods exports fell by 30.5% in the first half of the year, from €148.9 billion to €103.6 billion. However, June recorded a year-on-year increase, with total goods exports rising by 7.1% to €18.1 billion compared with €16.9 billion in June 2025. The US remained Ireland’s largest individual export market that month, accounting for €4.3 billion, or 23.8%, of exports.

Accommodation and food sector records strongest earnings growth

Úna Burke with some of her work. Photo: Dylan Vaughan Photography

Average weekly earnings in Ireland’s accommodation and food service sector rose by 7.7% in the year to the second quarter of 2026, the largest percentage increase recorded across the 13 economic sectors measured by the CSO. Average weekly earnings in the sector increased from €470.59 in Q2 2025 to €506.78 in Q2 2026. Across the economy as a whole, average weekly earnings rose by 3.9% to €1,046.88 over the same period. Despite recording the strongest earnings growth, accommodation and food services had the lowest average hourly total labour costs of any sector, at €20.27 in Q2 2026.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

BusinessPeople

Engineering shortages and infrastructure delays putting growth at risk A shortage of engineers and delays in delivering critical infrastructure are putting housing delivery, the transition to low-carbon energy and Ireland’s economic competitiveness at risk, Engineers Ireland has warned. In its Pre-Budget 2027 Submission, the professional body, which represents more than 30,000 members, said Ireland is not producing enough engineering graduates to meet demand across housing, energy, transport and other sectors. According to Engineers Ireland, 10 per cent of Irish third-level graduates qualified in engineering, manufacturing or construction in 2024, compared with an OECD average of 13 per cent. The corresponding figures were 21 per cent in Germany and 19 per cent in Austria. Almost half of engineering employers also reported taking more than six months to fill an engineering vacancy during the past year, while Engineers Ireland estimates that more than 22,000 additional engineers will be required in Ireland over the next decade. The organisation is calling on the Government to expand places on accredited engineering programmes, increase engineering apprenticeships and extend the Free Fees Initiative to cover the fifth year of accredited integrated engineering master’s degrees. It has also proposed a national campaign aimed at encouraging more young people, particularly girls, to pursue careers in engineering.

No date yet for decision on Boyle Aldi appeal There is still no date for a decision on an appeal against planning permission for a proposed Aldi store on Patrick Street in Boyle. Roscommon County Council granted permission for the development in January, subject to 36 conditions, before a third-party appeal was subsequently lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála. The mixed-use development would include a new Aldi supermarket and off-licence, along with the demolition of derelict buildings and structures and the refurbishment of five houses on Patrick Street. Plans also provide for 96 car parking spaces, 10 cycle spaces and a bicycle shelter. A decision had initially been expected by June 22nd, but this was deferred to allow further information to be submitted. An Coimisiún Pleanála has since invited further submissions in relation to the case, with no revised decision date currently listed.

Housing was identified in the submission as the infrastructure issue of greatest concern among engineers. While more than 38,000 homes were completed in the 12 months to the end of the first quarter of 2026, Engineers Ireland said future housing delivery will depend on sufficient water, wastewater and electricity infrastructure. It is seeking faster approvals, more proactive delivery of Uisce Éireann and ESB connections and multi-annual budgets for key infrastructure projects. Engineers Ireland is also calling for annual transport investment increases of more than five per cent over the next decade, alongside accelerated delivery of MetroLink,

DART+ and BusConnects. It has proposed that transport funding be allocated on a 2:1 basis in favour of sustainable transport modes. On energy policy, the organisation said infrastructure investment should precede significant increases in electricity demand associated with artificial intelligence and data centres. It has also called for Ireland’s legal restrictions on nuclear energy to be reviewed, with a view to allowing nuclear power to be evaluated alongside other lowcarbon technologies. Damien Owens, Director General of Engineers Ireland, said Ireland must address its infrastructure deficits if it is to maintain economic growth and continue to attract

foreign direct investment. “If Ireland is to continue to enjoy the growth that has been a feature of much of the last three decades of its economic life, it must swiftly and comprehensively deal with the infrastructural deficits that threaten, not only to undermine the quality of life of those living here, but to drastically reduce this country’s ability to attract foreign direct investment or support a thriving business community,” he said. “Engineers and engineering remain essential ingredients in the strength of Ireland’s economy, and by appropriately supporting the engineering sector in Budget 2027, Government can give Ireland its best chance at continued success.”

Roscommon Credit Union merger proposal falls after North Midlands vote RCU members backed the transfer by 96%, but North Midlands failed to reach the required threshold A proposed transfer involving Roscommon Credit Union and North Midlands Credit Union will not proceed after the plan failed to secure the necessary level of support from North Midlands members. Roscommon Credit Union said its own members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the proposal, with 96% supporting the resolution at a Special General Meeting. However, approval was required from the members of both credit unions, and North Midlands Credit Union did not reach the required 75% threshold. As a result, the proposed transfer will not proceed at this point. Roscommon Credit Union said it fully respects the decision made by North Midlands members and stressed that there will be no impact on day-to-day services. The credit union said members’ savings, loans and services are unaffected, while its three branches will remain open as normal. In a statement, Roscommon Credit Union said the Board will now take

time to consider the outcome and its future strategic direction. It said the transfer process had been pursued because it was seen as an opportunity to strengthen services for members and support the longterm development of the credit union. The statement added that those ambitions had not changed, and said the 96% support from Roscommon members gave the Board confidence as it considers the next stage of development. Roscommon Credit Union also thanked members, staff and volunteers for their engagement throughout the process.

Solar electricity generation jumps 51% in a year Electricity generated by grid-scale solar farms in Ireland increased by 51% last year, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office. Grid-scale solar generation reached 1,101 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2025, up from the level recorded in 2024 and 166% higher than in 2023. Solar accounted for 4% of electricity generated in Ireland during 2025. Renewable sources accounted for half of all grid-scale electricity generation during the year, with wind remaining the largest renewable source at 40% of generation.

Almost one in three commercial units vacant in Boyle Almost one in three commercial units in Boyle is vacant, according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report. The Q2 2026 report puts Boyle’s commercial vacancy rate at 30.1 per cent, the third-highest among the 80 towns and urban areas analysed across the country. Only Shannon, at 34.9 per cent, and Ballybofey, at 34.5 per cent, recorded higher rates. Boyle’s figure has also increased slightly from 29.8 per cent at the end of 2025. The figures contrast sharply with the national trend. Ireland’s commercial vacancy rate fell to 14.5 per cent in Q2 2026, marking the first decline recorded since GeoDirectory began compiling the data in 2013.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

PropertyPeople

NEW TO THE MARKET

PRIME AGRICULTURAL ROADSIDE LANDS 36.35 ACRES APPROX WITH DERELICT RESIDENCE STANDING THEREON LOCATED AT

CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON COMPRISED IN FOLIO RN32443

The property comprises two parcels extending to approximately 14.71 hectares (36.35acres). The first parcel contains six paddocks with piped water, four gated entrances, a three-pen agricultural shed with feeding area and cattle crush, and a vacant slated-roof The Residence requires full renovation. The house may qualify for refurbishment and energy-upgrade grants of up to €100,000, subject to eligibility. The second parcel, located opposite,comprises two paddocks with piped water and two gated entrances.

ONLINE AUCTION THIS FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST 2026 AT 2 PM 21.5 ACRES APPROX OF ROADSIDE LANDS LOCATED AT

BALLYCONBOY, BALLINAGARE, CO. ROSCOMMON

The lands are in good condition, with well-maintained boundary and electric fencing. Recently ploughed and reseeded, they are suitable for a wide range of agricultural uses.

Viewing by Appointment | Contact: Cathal Meares, 086 1409158

PRICE ON APPLICATION

DUE TO CANCELLATION

NEW TO THE MARKET

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY 2 B/R TRADITIONAL SYLE COTTAGE STANDING ON APPROX 1 ACRE LOCATED AT

3 B/R DETACHED TWO STOREY RESIDENCE STANDING ON A LARGE MATURE SITE AREA LOCATED AT

OAKFIELD, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 WD53

SLEVIN, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 XT44

LONG ESTABLISHED AND FULLY OPERATIONAL VILLAGE CONVENIENCE STORE, FILLING STATION AND POST OFFICE, STOP & SHOP LOCATED AT

CALTRA, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY

AMV: €100,000 JOINT AUCTIONEERS: Pat Hughes, Abbey Street, Roscommon

AMV: €250,000

AMV: €295,000

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Property/NewsPeople

112 new homes commenced in Roscommon in first seven months A total of 112 new homes were commenced in County Roscommon during the first seven months of 2026, according to new figures from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. That represents an increase of 58 per cent on the 71 homes commenced during the same period last year. Of the 112 homes commenced in Roscommon, 61 were scheme dwellings, 49 were one-off homes and two were apartments. Nationally, 18,974 homes were commenced between January and July, up 152 per cent on the 7,539 recorded during the same period in 2025. The Department said this was the secondhighest number of commencements recorded for the period since the data series began in 2014. Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne welcomed the figures, but said final delivery remained the key measure. “Commencements aren’t the be all and end all, and in my view the real measure is always final delivery and keys in the

hand of a homeowner or a family supported with housing,” he said. “But commencement rates do mark a critical milestone in development and they also give key insight into the health of the sector and what’s to come in the coming months.” The Department also said that 85,723 homes were commenced across 2024 and 2025 combined, an increase of 43 per cent on the total recorded across 2022 and 2023.

Council seeking sites and properties for social housing Roscommon County Council is inviting expressions of interest from developers, building contractors, landowners and Approved Housing Bodies with property or land suitable for social housing in Roscommon town or Strokestown. The Council is considering land for social housing development, turnkey homes, unfinished developments and vacant buildings. Proposals for multiple units are being sought, with properties expected to be well located within or close to the towns and within walking distance of services. Any purchase of social housing by the Council is subject to approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Average three-bed rent in Roscommon reaches €1,570 The average advertised rent for a three-bedroom house in County Roscommon reached €1,570 per month in the second quarter of 2026, according to the latest Daft.ie Rental Report. The figure was 8.6 per cent higher than a year earlier. Comparable three-bedroom rents stood at €1,460 in Longford and €1,340 in Leitrim. Nationally, market rents increased by 1.4 per cent between March and June. There were just under 2,400 homes available to rent across the country on August 1st, five per cent more than a year earlier, but still well below pre-pandemic levels.

Property of the week at Sheehy Meares Team Earley – two-bedroomed traditional style farmhouse located at Oakfield

Oakwood Retirement Village just minutes from Roscommon town

Sheehy Meares Team Earley close sale on 1 Oakwood Retirement Village Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of this attractive two-bedroomed, semi-detached bungalow, ideally located in the peaceful Oakwood Retirement Village just minutes from Roscommon town. This property came to the market in excellent, turnkey condition, a perfect opportunity to those seeking to downsize, retire in a secure and tranquil setting, or invest in a well-located home. Extending to approximately 79 square metres and built in 2006, the residence is bright, spacious, and well maintained throughout. The accommodation comprises an inviting entrance hallway, a large living/sitting room filled with natural light from generous windows and sliding doors, and a fully fitted kitchen/dining area with ample storage. There are also two well-proportioned double bedrooms and a main family bathroom. Externally, the property offers a neat, lowmaintenance finish that blends seamlessly with the landscaped surroundings of the development. The Oakwood Retirement Village provides a peaceful and secure environment with well-

maintained communal green areas, creating a strong sense of community. Ideally positioned close to all amenities in Roscommon Town, the property is within easy reach of shops, cafes, restaurants, medical facilities, and leisure options, making it both convenient and highly desirable. This was an excellent opportunity to acquire a quality home in a sought-after and quiet residential setting, suitable for both owneroccupiers and investors alike. Sheehy Meares Team Earley would like to extend their congratulations and best wishes to the new owners. Sheehy Meares Team Earley would also like to advise that they are urgently seeking similar-type bungalow residences in the Roscommon town area for disappointed underbidders. For further details or to book a free presales valuation, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 6626579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, or log onto sheehymeares.ie, or contact one of the auctioneers directly by phoning Keith on 086 0848590 or Cathal on 086 1409158.

Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team Earley, in joint agency with Pat Hughes Auctioneers, are presenting to market due to cancellation a charming traditional-style farmhouse residence, standing on approximately an acre, located at Oakfield, Strokestown, County Roscommon. Situated in a peaceful and private rural setting, this stroey-and-a-half property offers well-proportioned ac-

commodation throughout, and retains the character of a traditional Irish farmhouse. The residence is accessed via cul-de-sac off the public road. Ground floor accommodation comprises an entrance hallway with a sitting room to the right, as well as a living room and a kitchen area to the rear. Upstairs consists of two bedrooms and a main bathroom. The property stands on

Oakfield, Strokestown, County Roscommon.

approximately an acre, offering ample space for gardening, recreation, or further development potential subject to the necessary planning permission. This is an ideal opportunity for those seeking a countryside residence with character and potential, while still being within easy reach of Strokestown and surrounding amenities. Viewing is highly recommended and strictly by ap-

pointment. Current offer is €110,000. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, or log onto sheehymeares.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590. Joint agent Pat Hughes Auctioneers (Abbey Street, Roscommon) can be contacted on 090 6627003.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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PERSON AVAILABLE  MAN LOOKING FOR WORK: Man in his 60s (retired) looking for 2/3 days a week part time van driving or taxi work. Full clean driving licence and small P.S.V Licence. Give me a call please on 089 451 3669. If I do not answer leave me a message and I will get back to you.

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

DOG  COLLIE: 2 year old Collie Dog. Free to good home. Tel: 087 690 1910

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SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE

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

PAINTER & (Commercial & Domestic) DECORATOR Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon AVAILABLE • 10% discount with for all your painting Stan Carey – draft 1-column ad for the Roscommon People this advertisement. Tar & Chip Driveways needs, keen and • Fully insured and work guaranteed Size: 64 mm × 34 mm competive prices. Harpur Bros, Castlecole, for 5 years l Dangerous Tree Removed

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

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Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds

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086 4679798

Podiatrist/ Chiropodist

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

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

ITA BETTS

ALTERATIONS/ REPAIRS

Klassic Cleaners ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS

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

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

● Sliding Wardrobes ● Kitchen/Utility/bedroom units

Any Grant work sought

Phone: 083 1628531

Email: richie689dooner@gmail.com

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE – including Service Washing:

Blankets, Duvets, Throws, Team Kits, etc.

GARDENING

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

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

ANY FITTING REQUIRES APPOINTMENT

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

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

Don’t be alone!

SOUL MATES

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

PODIATRIST

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

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

Mobile:

086 8115928

● Luxury Bathroom Renovations

WINDOWS AND DOORS

Tel: 087 9216302 or 087 7720250

BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

• Dept. of Health Approved • CORU Registered

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

Richie Dooner

TEL. 090 6625995 Church St., Roscommon.

BSC (HONS.) PODIATRY MCHSI, RGN

For all aspects of footcare in Roscommon, Castlerea & Boyle

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803 Co Galway

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

H53 D7W8

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

Our deadline is STRICTLY 2pm on Tuesday We cannot guarantee publication after this time

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Dylan Byrne

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Tel: 089 2551716

Telephone: 090 66 33026

DIP CHFP

For Bookings Contact: College Road,

WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Tel: 087 2982214

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

KEARNEY’S CHEMIST Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment, phone: (089) 4142233

• 20 years experience •

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

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community 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.

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

TILER

Professional Tiler available Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

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

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds INSULATION

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

GARDENING

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

€1,214 to Estate, Galway €3,500

091 768 768

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

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

C2 Registered & Insured. FREE QUOTATIONS

www.ecowise.ie

WINDOWS, DOORS & REPAIRS

TUITION

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

MATHS REVISION COURSE 2026 Junior Cycle HL Maths Leaving Cert HL Maths

Where: JACKSON’S, The Square, Roscommon

WIN 2 TICKETS to The SCRIPT

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

Lorraine Kenny

086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommon mathsgrinds@gmail.com

Keen Rates

Over 20 years in business

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

Covers West of Ireland

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

HOME & GARDEN

• Bathroom planning and

SERVICES EXPERT

PAINTING - GARDEN MAINTENANCE POWERWASHING - ROOF CLEANING ROOF SPRAY PAINTING – TILING CALL US NOW

For a FREE quote

089 4101609

Grass cutting from

€50 onwards

www.wmmaintenance.ie

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Cllr. Valerie Duffy

GF Ground Works ● Landscaping ● Paving & Kerbing ● Foundations

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

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

Contact LUKE

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

AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT NO. 86 PUBLIC DANCE HALLS ACT, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ROSCOMMON DISTRICT NO. 4 ANYA GREALY AS NOMINEE APPLICANT TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Anya Grealy as nominee of Abbey Hotel Roscommon Limited of Abbeytown, Roscommon, Roscommon, Ireland intends to apply to the District Court at Roscommon District Court on the 15 Sep 2026 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence at The Ballroom, Abbey Hotel Roscommon, situate at Roscommon, Roscommon, Roscommon in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

To:

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

Caramore Electrical Ltd.

WE DO ANYTHING

• Domestic • Commercial • Agricultural

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

LMC

Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Signed: MAHON SWEENEY SOLICITORS LLP (Solicitor for Applicant) Market Square, Roscommon, Roscommon

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

LMC PLUMBING & MAINTENANCE

Electoral Area: Athlone Roscommon County Council

Dated this 25 Aug 2026

USEFUL SERVICES

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

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

on 085 735 9120 APPOINTMENTS

LEGAL NOTICE

GROUND WORKS

USEFUL SERVICES

• House Clearance • Shed and Garage Clearance • All Household Furniture

LMC Plumbing & Maintenance

Professional & Fully Insured

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

Booking Deposit Required

First Choice Rubbish

PLUMBING & HEATING

DAVID DUFFY 087 9662678

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit

MAINTENANCE

Registered Electrical Contractor

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

Tel. 087 905 3870

The Garda Superintendent, at MR.Roscommon.CE@Garda.ie, Roscommon Garda Station, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 HN32

To:

The Fire Officer, at fire@roscommoncoco.ie, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon, Roscommon, F42 VR98

To:

The Co Council Official, at info@ roscommoncoco.ie, Church Road, Roscommon Town, Roscommon, F42VR98

To:

The District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court

Laltec Electrical Contractors Mountpleasant, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Email: info@laltec.ie | Web: www.laltec.ie Laltec Electrical has immediate vacancies for the following:

ELECTRICIANS 2nd & 3rd YEAR

APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS • Must have Safe Pass and Manual Handling

Suitable candidates should send their CV to: nlally@laltec.ie  VACANCY. Counter assistant required for busy pharmacy, experience desirable. To apply: PO Box No 3140, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town

TO RENT

Locally owned in the heart of the community

 ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT (UNFURNISHED) with all mod cons to rent 3 miles from Lanesboro in the countryside. Would suit a couple. References essential. Viewing by appointment only. €895.00 pm. Tel: 086 327 6584

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES LEYDON Seán

WHYTE Nollaig

Roscommon Town (and formerly Keadue, Roscommon) (1st Anniversary) In loving Memory of Seán who died 29th August 2025.

Coolmeen/Castlestrange, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary) Who sadly passed away on 4th September, 2024

In loving memory of

MacLEAN

(née Kilmartin)

Dolores Marie Lisnigerra, Athleague, Roscommon (3nd Anniversary – Died 9th Sept. 2023) Rest in Peace

As we remember Seán on his First Anniversary, his beloved wife Ríona, eight children Aisling, Aonghus (recently deceased February 2026 RIP) Máire, Toirealach, Nollaig, Seán Óg, Tomás and Ailbhe, sons and daughters in law, grandchildren and extended family wish to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the many acts of kindness love and support shown to us during our sad bereavement. A quiet, gentle and unassuming man who loved his family, his faith and all things farming. Seán was a much loved husband to Riona, Dad to his eight children and proud grandfather to his cherished 16 grandchildren.

In our hearts your memory lingers, sweetly tender, fond and true. There is not a day, dear Nollaig, that we do not think of you. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her mother Margaret; sister Eileen; brothers, Sean, Tommie and Gerard; nieces, Mairéad, Shóna and Karen; nephews, Gearóid and Luke; sister-in-law, Noreen. Anniversary Mass will take place on Friday, 4th September in St. Patrick’s Church Athleague, at 7p.m.

HARNEY Michael (Mickie) Muckloon, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

Our sincere thanks to all those who offered condolences, took the time to write letters, sent many Mass cards and sympathy cards, to those who called to our home with delicious and nourishing home baked food, and supported us in any way during this sad time. We are deeply grateful to all those who attended Seán’s removal and Requiem Mass in such large numbers to celebrate his wonderful life. Heartfelt thanks to Fr. Kevin Fallon PP and Fr Pádraig Devine who co-celebrated the Funeral Mass and Burial. Having shared in his friendship, their presence, thoughtful reflections and personal tributes to Seán honored his life in a very special way. To the Roscommon Folk Group for singing so beautifully which enhanced the liturgy and memorable celebration of his life. A special word of thanks to his GP Dr Brendan Crosbie and staff at Castle Street Surgery for their years of dedicated care, kindness and attention shown to Seán.

We thank our family, friends, relatives and neighbours who visited our home, called to the wake, attended the Funeral, sent Mass cards and letters, or helped and supported us in any way.

To McGuinness’ Pharmacy Main Street who obliged us always.

Thanks to Dr. Martin Daly and staff of Ballygar Health Centre, who cared for Michael through the years.

To the staff on John Paul II Ward of the Galway Clinic who cared for him so passionately and with such dignity in his final days.

We are truly grateful to the management and staff of Mountbellew Nursing Home for the kindness, care and compassion shown to Michael throughout his final years in their care.

To Pat and Gillian Smyth and John Smyth of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their leadership and professionalism throughout the Funeral arrangements. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgment as a sincere expression of our family’s heartfelt appreciation for all the kindness, support, and friendship shown to us following the loss of Seán. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Seán’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, the 29th of August at 7:00pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance PHONE: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

We thank the gravediggers, Michael’s neighbours, for the thoughtfulness and dignity shown in preparing his final resting place. A sincere word of thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for his comforting prayers, the beautiful Funeral Mass and his support and kindness throughout this difficult time. We thank Michael Dempsey, Funeral Director for the compassionate and professional manner in which the funeral arrangements were conducted, and Liam, Marian and Maura for their beautiful singing and music which added so much to the celebration of Michael’s life. Thank you also to the management and staff of Gullane’s Hotel for looking after us so well following the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we trust that this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our heartfelt and sincere appreciation. Much loved and sadly missed every day by his wife Ellen; his daughter Deirdre; his sons Stephen, Dermot, Darragh and Colm; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sons-in-law Paul and Jason; his daughters-in-law Mary, Sarah and Fiona; his sister Breege; his brother Joe; and his nieces, nephews and extended family. Michael’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 30th August, at 10.00am in St Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan. May Michael rest in peace.

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

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

DOLAN Evan We have loved her in life, let us not forget her in death. All I ask is that you will remember me at Mass and Holy Communion Fois shiorruidh thoir dhi o Thighearna agus solus nach dibir a dearsadh orra. Amen Sadly missed by her loving husband John, Carolann, Rosemary, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephew, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 6th September at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague

As we mark the Month’s Mind of Michael, we, his family, would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation for the sympathy, kindness and support we received at the time of Michael’s passing and throughout the weeks since.

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

QUIGLEY Michael Creevy, Roscommon (21st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael, who died on 28th August 2005 May he Rest In Peace Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, still very dear.

(10th Anniversary) In loving memory of Evan who fell asleep on 31st August 2016

When the stars shine up in the sky, we miss you When the sun rises and sets every day, we miss you. When the rain falls and everything looks bright and beautiful, we miss you. Every day, every hour in every way, in everything we do, we miss you.

Your loving parents, Robbie and Marian; your brother Cian and sister Aoife. Anniversary Mass for Evan will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday, 31st August at 11am.

DOLAN Evan (10th Anniversary) 31st August In loving memory of Evan

A beautiful memory, dearer than gold, Of a grandson whose worth can never be told. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, So loved, so missed, so very dear.

Loved and missed Granny and Grandad. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Your memory in our hearts this day, Means more to us than words can say. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Loved, remembered and ever dear.

From Barbara, David and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The years may pass, but still you stay, As near and dear, as yesterday.

Loved and sadly missed by your sons, daughters, sonsin-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Always loved Brenda. xx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11am on Friday, 28th August.

Always remembered Ailish and Aidan. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IS TUESDAYS AT 2.00pm

To us you were someone special, What more is there to say. Wishing with all our hearts, That you were here today. Of all the gifts in life, However great or small, To have you as my nephew, Was the greatest gift of all. I look up to the sky, When it’s a starry night, And know that you’ll be there, The biggest star shining bright.

Loved and always remembered, Noelle. x

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES RYAN

NOLAN Kevin & Josephine

(née FAHY)

Della Moore North, Ballydangan, Athlone.

Hermitage,Ballygar In loving memory of Kevin and Josephine Nolan

SHAUGHNESSY (née Carley) Dympna Corbohill, Strokestown Died 26th August 2025

(2nd Anniversary)

Just a prayer from the ones who loved you. Just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you. Always remembered and sadly missed by her loving family. 2nd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 30th August at 11.30am in St. Mary’s Church, Moore.

GERAGHTY Michael (Mickey) Mount Mary, Ballygar, Co. Galway (15th Anniversary – 1st September)

Kevin Nolan who died 30th July 2020 (6th anniversary)

Josephine Nolan who died 20th September 2022 (4th Anniversary)

Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on Cherished memories never fade Because one loved is gone Those we love can never be more than a thought apart For as long as there is a memory They live on in our hearts Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Rosemarie, Carmel, Damian, Fidelma and Eimear, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass for Kevin and Josephine will be held in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 29th August at 7.30pm.

COSTELLO Patrick 16 Circular Road, Roscommon. Who died 31st August, 2001

(25th Anniversary)

DOORLY Heather Ashbrook, Scramogue, Co. Roscommon. (17th Anniversary) Treasured memories of a dear wife and mother, who passed away on August 28th 2009. R.I.P.

In loving memory of my dear dad Patrick

Time slips by and life goes on, but from our hearts you’re never gone. Memories are our greatest treasure, to have, to hold, to keep forever. Always remembered by Mary, Kelly Ann, Val & family, Philip & Ellen Anniversary Mass St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar Tuesday, 1st September at 7.30p.m.

The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you shall never pass away.

Loved and remembered by your daughter Martina, Jimmy, Jude and Sinéad. ~~~~~~~~~~~

COSTELLO Patrick

Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday. It’s the heartache of losing you that will never go away.

Loved and remembered by your son Noel, Kathy and family.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

A heart too gentle, a mind too deep, a beautiful soul, forever asleep. Eyes full of sparkle, a heart full of love, now shining brightly from Heaven above. Will those who think of Heather today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Dearly loved and missed every day by husband Michéal, daughters Rachel and Rhona, sisters Sharon and Lorna, family and friends. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 30th August at 10am in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue.

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IS TUESDAYS AT 2.00 pm

On the first anniversary of Dympna’s sad passing, her son Damien, on behalf of her sister May, brother Johnny and the extended Carley and Shaughnessy families, wishes to express sincere gratitude and deep appreciation to all who cared for Mam and supported me during those difficult days. To the doctors, nurses and staff of Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe and the ambulance staff who brought her there, I thank them for the tender care Mam received during her final days. A special word of thanks to Kathy Higgins and the Hospital Pastoral Care Team along with Fr. Bernie Costello and Fr. Colm Allman who looked after Mam’s spiritual needs. I would also like to mention Dr. Ciaran Regan and McDonnell’s Pharmacy who took excellent care of her over the years. Sincere thanks to Pat and John McHugh and Michael Carlos for arranging to bring Mam home to Corbohill for her wake and for carrying out her Funeral Arrangements, including the live stream of the Mass, with your usual quiet dignity and professionalism. Thank you Paul Fahy for preparing Mam’s last resting place beside her beloved Micheál. A special word of thanks to Fr. Eamon O’Connor who attended her wake and offered prayers at McHugh’s Funeral Home before Mam’s removal to Carniska Church where she was received by a guard of honour and local ladies who kept a vigil with her. I thank them all for their show of love to Mam. For celebrating her Mass with hope, thanksgiving and solemnity, I sincerely thank Fr. John Joe Gannon and his concelebrants Fr. Ciaran Whitney, Fr. Micheál Donnelly, Fr. Vincent Atueyi and Fr. Douglas Zaggi. For those who assisted at the Mass, including Sacristan Teresa Barrow and the beautiful singing by Carmel McLoughlin, your participation enhanced its meaning. I am very grateful to Fr. Vincent for delivering the final commendation by the graveside in very inclement weather conditions. Thanks to the staff of the Percy French Hotel for the lovely meal that they provided afterwards. I was, and still am, deeply touched by the outpouring of sympathy, love and support I received after Mam’s death. To my family, especially Mam’s tremendous nieces and nephews, close friends and neighbours who stepped in immediately to look after everything, I cannot thank you enough for your words of comfort, acts of kindness and practical deeds. A special word for the ladies who catered non-stop during the nights of Mam’s wake. The large number of Mass cards, flower bouquets, phone calls, RIP.ie and text messages were greatly appreciated. To all those who called to the house, travelled a long distance, sympathised in the Funeral Home and attended the removal and Mass as a show of respect and affection for Mam, your presence was a great comfort. I thank all my present and former work colleagues as well as farming friends and acquaintances of mine and my late Dad’s who came to extend their condolences. I trust this acknowledgement will be accepted as my message of thanks, appreciation and gratitude to all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. They say there is a reason They say time will heal; Neither time or reason Will change the way I feel. Gone are the days we used to share, But in my heart you are always there. The gates of memories will never close; I miss you more than anybody knows. Love and miss you everyday Till we meet again always and forever. Loved always, Damien Dympna’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Carniska Church on Sunday, 30th August 2026 at 10am.

McGOWAN Padraic Carrownabrickna, Roscommon

O’REILLY (née Cunniffe) Nora “Nonie”

(21st Anniversary)

Glasgow, formerly of Liswilliam Who died on the 21st July 2026

In loving memory of Padraic, who died on the 27th August 2005. Will those who think of Padraic today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Lovingly remembered by his family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Whitehall on Sunday, 30th August at 11.30 am.

A Memorial Mass for Nonie will be celebrated on Saturday 29th August at 7.30pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart. May she rest in peace.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries The local paper! If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

or call us on 090 6634633

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds

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

FAMILY NOTICES

PLANNING NOTICES

TIGHE Vincent

NAUGHTON Tommie

HARTE Eileen

Cloonfad, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon (Acknowledgement and 1st Anniversary)

(14th Anniversary) In loving memory of Tommie Naughton, Tully East, Ballygar, Co. Galway, who died on 23rd March 2012

QUINE Agnes and Michael

Birmingham and formerly Tully East, Ballygar, Co.Galway

(11th and 5th Anniversaries) In loving memory of our dear parents Agnes and Michael late of Oran, Donamon, Co. Roscommon who passed away on 20th September 2015 and 1st July 2021.

who passed away on 31st August, 2025 Predeceased by his beloved wife Maura on 22nd November, 2022 As we lovingly remember Vincent (Nissie) on his first anniversary, his sons Séamus and Vincent, daughters Assumpta, Marie, Kathleen and Angela, brother Desmond, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren wish to express our sincere thanks and deepest gratitude to our extended family, our wonderful neighbours and many friends for the kindness and support we received following Nissie’s passing. A sincere thank you to Dr Annette Rogers, Dr Nuala Hardiman and Dr Eugene Hardiman for the excellent care and kindness shown to Vincie throughout the years. Thank you to those who called to Angela’s house, travelled long distances to attend Vincie’s reposing, funeral and burial, those who sent floral tributes, text messages, letters, cards and online condolences. You provided much strength and comfort during this time. We would like to acknowledge our neighbours and friends who erected lights and managed traffic at the house, brought food and helped with refreshments. Thanks to Fr. Willie and Fr. James McKiernan for their spiritual guidance during this difficult time. The Funeral Mass was enhanced by soloist Eimear Reynolds and organist Fintan Farrelly who provided beautiful music. Thanks to Cox’s Steakhouse for the lovely food after the Burial. A special thanks to Joe Rogers, Funeral Director, for his professionalism and guidance throughout and also Hughie O’Brien for his assistance in ensuring the funeral ran smoothly. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our most sincere gratitude. Think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched…. For nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much. Nissie’s first anniversary mass will be held in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Rooskey on Sunday, 30th August at 11.30 am.

RATTIGAN Thomas and Annie

Time goes by, life goes on, but in our hearts you are never gone.

Of all the gifts in life, however great or small, to have you as our parents was the greatest gift of all. Please put your arms around them Lord and treasure them with care, for you have in your possession parents beyond compare. Your gentle nature, your kindly ways leave golden memories of bygone days. Never selﬁsh, always kind, what happy memories you left behind. Will those who think of mam and dad today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Sadly missed by family and friends.

Lovingly remembered by their son Francis, daughters Cathy and Michelle, daughter-in-law Mary, son-in-law John, grandchildren Emma and Jamie and extended family.

Though absent, you are very near. Still loved, still missed and very dear. Sadly missed by his wife Mary, son Michael and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, August 29th at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

NAUGHTON Geraldine Tully East, Ballygar, Co.Galway (14th Anniversary) In loving memory of Geraldine Naughton who died on 25th August 2012.

Quietly today your memory is kept, No need for words we will never forget, When thoughts go back as they always do, We treasure the memories we have of you. Sadly missed by her mother Mary, brother Michael, family and friends. Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 29th August at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

Thomas 6th May 2010 (16th Anniversary)

(2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Eileen Harte, Birmingham and formerly Tully East, Ballygar, Co. Galway, who died on 4th September 2024.

Annie 30th August 2023 (3rd Anniversary)

THANKSGIVINGS

Memories are precious They don’t fade away We remember you both always Not just today Although we sadly miss you We never feel alone For you are watching over us From a place you now call home RIP Always remembered by your family Marie, Catherine, Paraic, Sean, Tomås, Michael Anniversary Mass in St Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 30th August at 11.30am

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

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, August 29th at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 29th August at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill.

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

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

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

KEAVENEY Liam

MURPHY Gerry

Roundforth, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Ros-Ria, The Walk, Roscommon

(4th Anniversary) Who passed away on 2nd September 2022.

(13th Anniversary) In loving memory of Gerry Murphy who passed away on 2nd September 2013.

We hold you within our hearts, and there you shall remain. To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. So Rest in Peace dear Liam and thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won. He is sadly missed by his wife Margaret, his three children Michael, Enda and Lisa, Enda’s partner Carretta, his son-in-law John, grandchildren Mia and Jack, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives, friends and neighbours. Liam’s 4th Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 29th August at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

or call us on

090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

I remembered you well within my heart You were always the best, that will never part On a winter’s morn, looking out into the wood Recalling your face, your unyielding love Sat on a bough, in his best dress Was the little brown bird with a red breast I can’t deny that you are gone But within that robin I know you live on For every time I hear his tiny wings I remember you and your quirky things Sometimes he lands on my windowsill And with a wink of his eye I know you’re with me still Loved and remembered by his wife Paula and The Murphy Family, forever missed by daughters Donna, Sheena and son Aaron, son-in-law Joe grandchildren Joshua, Adam and Evanna xxxxx Mass has been offered.

Submit your Classiﬁed online Send your Classiﬁed advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Classifieds

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

PLANNING NOTICES

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 (AS AMENDED) NOTICE OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT BY ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Project Name: Hodson Bay Waterfront Park Pursuant to the requirements of Section 175(4) and Section 177AE (4) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Roscommon County Council is seeking the approval of An Coimisiún Pleanála for the development of a waterfront park and marina development over an area measuring approximately 9.0 hectares (ha) at Hodson Bay, Townland of Barrymore, Co. Roscommon. The proposed development consists of the following elements: 1. Water Sports Pavilion Development: This includes: • Demolition of the existing water sports building and adjacent public toilet block • Temporary relocation of the existing Water Sports Facility during the construction period of the Water Sports Pavilion • Construction of a new ‘Water Sports Pavilion’, which incorporates the following elements: o 1 no. 1-storey café o 1 no. 1-storey Water Sports Pavilion building consisting of a briefing/mixed use space, staff canteen, office, storage spaces, changing facilities, showers and toilets o 1 no permanent Plaza Canopy Structure o 10 no. seasonally dismountable marquee structures providing for changing facilities during the peak tourism season, and multifunctional uses as required during shoulder season o 1 no. 1-storey maintenance building o External showers and bin stores o An enclosed plaza space which can be closed off by 3 no. gates or left open to the public. 2. Marina Redevelopment and Extension: This includes the redevelopment of the existing Waterways Ireland operated marina at Hodson Bay comprising an extension to the existing breakwater and the creation of a jetty extension for boats to berth. The redevelopment and extension consists of: • Expansion of the existing marina providing for a new floating breakwater secured by guided piles and connected to the existing breakwater structure by a gangway • Upgrades to the marina utilities to include provision of electricity hook-up, potable water and foul water pump-out for marina users • Provision of improved access for non-motorised recreational water activities such as canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding • Provision of c. 29 no. additional berths, resulting in a total capacity of hosting c. 59 berths for cruisers and visiting watercraft • Provision of a 1-storey marina pavilion with toilets and showers. 3. Public Realm Upgrades: This includes: • Construction of a playground, nature observation space, picnic areas, benches, bicycle storage & service areas, sauna pods, wellness meadow, swimming canopy and events spaces • Development of a continuous promenade pathway along the lakeshore along with secondary connection path • Provision of extensive natural landscaping to ensure the proposed development integrates with the natural environment, including planting of native trees and shrubs throughout the site • Provision of a flexible public space to accommodate programmed activities and events while serving a functional amenity for waterfront activities • Provision of a waterfront promenade pathway to facilitate public access to the waterfront at key public areas with viewpoints incorporating rest area, secondary pathway and suitable public lighting designed to minimise disturbance to wildlife. 4. Active Travel and Site Access Improvements: The proposed development includes: • Alterations and upgrades to the L2020 Local Road to provide for a 3m wide shared cycle / pedestrian pathway along the length of the L2020 from the N61 National Road junction to the Hodson Bay Marina. Works will include: i. Reduction of the existing road carriageway width at locations along a section of the L2020 to facilitate the provision of a shared cycle / pedestrian pathway ii. Widening & repurposing of the existing footpath along a section of the western side of the L2020 to form the shared cycle / pedestrian pathway iii. Widening & repurposing of the existing footway along a section of the eastern side of the L2020 to form the shared cycle / pedestrian pathway iv. Upgrade of existing public lighting scheme along the L2020

v. Provision of new road & pedestrian signage to include regulatory, warning, directional, wayfinding & information signage vi. Provision of new road marking vii. Provision of 2 no. bus set down locations adjacent to the Water Sports Pavilion. • Implementation of traffic calming measures along the L2020 Local Road accessing the site including vertical deflection ramps & raised crossings at key pedestrian crossing locations • Creation of a pedestrian priority environment resulting in the relocation of 57 no. car parking spaces from the lakefront areas to improve landscape and visual context of the site • Alterations to existing car parking & provision of new car parking at Hodson Bay to include the following: i. Provision of 151 no. additional car parking spaces to increase the number of parking spaces to 504 no. spaces. ii. The provision of 30 no. EV (Electric Vehicle) spaces, 28 no. accessible parking spaces, 3 no. bus parking bays, and 3 no. boat trailer parking bays. iii. Provision of safe pedestrian connection to & from car park areas. iv. Upgrade of existing & provision of new public lighting to car park areas. v. Provision of signage & road marking to car parks. 5. Ancillary works: The proposed development includes all associated and ancillary development and works including: • Site clearance, boundary treatments, associated public lighting, bin storage, hard and soft landscaping, site drainage upgrades including SuDS measures, connections to existing utilities to include foul and surface water drainage, water supply, electrical & telecommunications networks. • Boundary treatments involve upgrades to the existing golf course boundary safety netting (between 3m to 20m in height) and fencing in sections where the boundary is altered to accommodate the proposed development and maintain public safety. An Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) have been prepared in respect of the proposed development. The application documentation, including the EIAR and NIS, (which more comprehensively describe the nature and location of the proposed development), may be inspected free of charge, or purchased on payment of a specified fee (which fee shall not exceed the reasonable cost of making such copy), during public opening hours from 2nd September 2026 to 16th of October 2026 at the following locations and times: • The Office of An Coimisiún Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902 (between 9.15am and 5.30 pm Monday to Friday). • Áras an Chontae Roscommon, County Roscommon, F42 VR98 (between 9.30 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 3.30 pm Monday to Friday). • The application (including EIAR and NIS) may also be viewed/ downloaded on the following website: https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/tourism/eujtf-projects/hodsonbay-waterfront-park/planning-documents/ Submissions or observations may be made on payment of the prescribed fee of €50 (with the exception of certain prescribed bodies). Prescribed bodies can make their submissions/observations by hand/post, or by email to laps@ pleanala.ie. Submissions/observations can be made by hand/post to the offices of the Commission (An Coimisiún Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902), or through the Commission’s website through the following link: https://online.pleanala.ie/en-ie/sid/observation, during the above-mentioned period. All submissions / observations should be received by the Commission on or before 5.30 p.m. on the 16th of October 2026 - relating to: (i)The implications of the proposed development, if carried out, for proper planning and sustainable development in the area concerned, (ii) The likely effects on the environment of the proposed development, if carried out, and (iii) The likely significant effects of the proposed development on a European Site(s), if carried out. An Coimisiún Pleanála (the Commission) may give approval to the application for development with or without conditions or may refuse the application for development. For completeness, it is noted that Section 177AE (15) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) provides that: “Where a proposed development to which this section [s.177AE] applies is also required to be submitted to the [Commission] under section 175, it shall be sufficient for the applicant to make one application to the [Commission] provided that the applicant complies with this section and section 175 and in such a case the [Commission] shall issue one decision in relation to the application under this section and section 175.” A person may question the validity of any such decision by An Coimisiún Pleanála by way of an application for judicial review under, inter alia, Order 84 and Order 103 of the Rules of the Superior Courts (as amended) (available at www.courts.ie), pursuant to, inter alia, the requirements of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (as amended) - see, inter alia, Part 9 and s.303A of the said 2024 Act (as amended) (noting, inter alia, that s.303A was introduced by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2026 and was commenced on 12 August 2026 - pursuant to Commencement Order SI 414/2026). Practical information on the judicial review mechanism can be accessed under the heading Legal Notices – Judicial Review Notice on the An Coimisiún Pleanála website www.pleanala.ie or on the Citizens Information website www. citizensinformation.ie. Offices in Galway and Dublin +353 (0)91 735 611 | mkoireland.ie | info@mkoireland.ie McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Ltd. t/a MKO. Registered in Ireland No: 462657. VAT No: IE9693052R

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, Full Planning Permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for the retention of existing onsite septic tank system with pump together with seeking permission to install a suitable polishing filter to service same in accordance with the EPA Code of Practice 2021 and all ancillary site works which services existing dwelling house at Ardlawn Lodge, Corskeagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42 XW66 for Malcom Green.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Proposed Replacement Of An Existing Septic Tank System With An Onsite Sewerage System With Polishing Filter In Accordance With EPA Code of Practice 2021 To Service An Existing Dwelling House And All Ancillary Works At Cloongreaghan, Cootehall, Co. Roscommon For Owen McGovern.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, We Gorthaganny Community Development Co Ltd are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission for the construction of a safe deck board walk on Carrowbehy /Caher raised bog at Gorthaganny and Carrowbehy, Co. Roscommon, and for which a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared.

The planning application and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority 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:

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, I, Vincent Costello intend to apply for retention permission for development at Onagh, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. The development consists of an – (a) Outdoor horse arena for private use, (b) 6 no. flood lights & associated siteworks at rear of existing dwellinghouse.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon. Ph- (087) 2222874.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, I, Damien McDonnell intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for Retention Permission to retain and complete refurbishing works to existing premises, planning permission to construct waste water treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Lisheenanierin, Strokestown, 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 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. Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue Roscommon Phone 090 6626974 or 086 811 5449

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL, I, Eamon Leonard intend to apply for Planning Permission to Roscommon County Council to Construct a New 4 Bay Slatted Cattle Shed, together with all Associated Site Works at Srahauns Td., Kiltoom, Athlone, Co Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application 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 condition, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: P Durkan & Associates Telephone: 071-9630037 Mobile: 086-1600385 Email: padraic.durkan1@gmail.com

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

Strong showing for Midland Motor Club crews in Galway

Midland Motor Club competitors enjoyed a strong showing at the Galway Summer Stages Rally, held around the Ballinasloe area on Sunday. Keelan Grogan, from Carrickon-Shannon, and navigator Ayrton Sherlock produced an excellent result in their Ford

Fiesta, finishing third overall. Roscommon’s Vincent Collins and Jane Collins finished second in class, while Castlerea pair Bobby and Michele Cooper came home seventh in class in their Toyota Corolla Twincam. Photos: Barry Molloy

C’mon The Town

Tip Top Thomas Triumphs The annual Martin Kelly Cup took place in the Hollywood Bar, Roscommon Town, last Friday, with an impressive 52 players taking part. Thirteen youths competed in the youth section. Two top semi-finals saw Paul Kelly better Daniel O’Connor, while Dean Hoare edged Senan Shannon. A tight final saw Dean emerge the winner on a 2-1 scoreline. The adult section saw 39 entries compete in a round-robin format. The trophy for top lady went to Elaine Hannon, who impressed throughout the night. Top checkout went to David Concannon with a 160 finish. The final on the night saw two seasoned contenders battle it out. Thomas Concannon recorded wins over Sean Fleming and Krystof Wesolowski before a semi-final victory over Arron Blaides booked his place in the decider. On the other side of the draw, Martin Fleming recorded a last-16 win over Ken Turkington, before following up with a quarter-final victory over Robbie Dolan Winner Thomas Concannon with Runner Up Martin Fleming and a semi-final win over Paul Carton. The final itself was a highly entertaining affair. Concannon started the stronger, with some strong scoring seeing him take a 1-0 lead, before Fleming struck back to level the contest at 1-1. Fleming went ahead for the first time in the third leg to lead 2-1, before a 109 finish helped Thomas level the game at 2-2. A tight final leg saw both players open with scores of 100 from their first three darts. Fleming’s consistency – three scores of 85 – was met by a crucial 140 from Concannon, setting him up on a finish of 16, which he took out at the next opportunity. Well done to Thomas and hard luck to Martin. Many thanks to all the players who entered on the night and helped create such a high standard. A raffle held on the night raised €670 for Roscommon/ Mayo Hospice. Many thanks to those who supported the raffle and donated prizes. Finally, many thanks to the Hollywood Bar for its sponsorship of the event and continued support of darts within the Dean Hoare presented with the Youths Evan Dolan Memorial county. Trophy by Robbie Dolan

In association with the

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer) FINALS: Best wishes to our teams who are playing in the RDYSL Finals this weekend in Shiven. The players and their coaches have put in a lot of effort to reach these finals. Come out to support the Town, if you can. Thanks to Padraic Clarke (RDYSL) for coordinating and to Shiven Rovers for hosting the finals. SOCCER CAMP: Town hosted a soccer camp earlier this month in the Sports Park. Thanks to Damon and his coaching team at Match of a Lifetime Football Coaching for leading our

players during an enjoyable, energetic and educational week. We hope to have more camps in the future. GALWAY UNITED: Senan Lohan will be progressing to League of Ireland football with Galway United. He has had many good days in the Town colours and we are delighted to see him progress further. Best wishes, Senan! BEST WISHES: We extend our best wishes to our older players who are now choosing the next phase of their lives – work, study or travel – after

receiving their Leaving Cert results last week. As in a match, decisions have to be made. We hope those decisions work out well for you. We also send our best wishes to our players who are making the move to secondary school and to those returning to school after the summer break. Work hard, listen, learn and enjoy your time with your friends. ROVERS RETURN: Rory Gaffney from Shamrock Rovers visited the club in March. As a follow-up to this event, we were delighted to welcome

Ste Carrick, Community Manager with Shamrock Rovers, to the Sports Park. Players, parents, coaches, sponsors and others came along to get a photo with the League of Ireland trophy and FAI Cup. It was a positive, informal social event. Thanks to those who took the time to attend. Hopefully, it provided some inspiration for our players to take into the closing weeks of the soccer season here in Roscommon. THANK YOU: Sincere thanks to Gerard Dervin & Co. Ltd Builders for sponsoring training tops for our U11 boys CL3 squad. It is very much appreciated. BE SOUND: All club members subscribe to our respective codes of conduct – on and off the field. Play the game. Respect the referee. Trust the coach. Encourage your team. Be sound in person and online.

WISE WORDS: “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” – George Bernard Shaw REMEMBERING LIAM: We remember Liam Dunne. His first anniversary is next Wednesday, September 2nd. Thinking of his family and friends at this time. Eternal rest grant unto him. CLUB STORE: Check out our website, roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie, to browse and buy club clothing and other items. There are several price reductions at the moment. OLLY IN ENGLAND: Olly Ryan from our U11s was a match mascot for the Lincoln City v Portsmouth match last weekend. A great experience and a great day. Well done, Olly!

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

SportsPeople BUCCANEERS RFC

Roscommon Masters reach All Ireland Shield final

The Roscommon Masters football team have reached the All-Ireland Shield final following their 2-13 to 2-8 win against Monaghan in Edgeworthstown last Saturday. Roscommon will face Meath in the final at a date and venue yet to be confirmed.

Buccaneers captain Lorna Stuart-Trainor opening the refurbished dressing room facilities in the clubhouse.

Buccaneers set for season opener

RUGBY SEASON KICK-OFF: The Buccaneers rugby season kicks off with a home fixture this Thursday, August 27th, when they host Galwegians in the opening round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League. The action commences under the Dubarry Park floodlights at 7.30 pm. Head Coach Darin Claasen, assisted by Garreth Halligan, remains at the helm for the Pirates who, it looks like, will field a youthful and much-changed squad. Meanwhile, the Christy Reid Cup fixture between the two clubs’ Seconds sides has been rescheduled for a noon kick-off on Sunday, September 20th. Electric Picnic was apparently an influence on the change of dates for both matches! MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS: Annual membership subscriptions are now due and can be paid via SportLoMo, where all the various types and rates can be checked. Payment can be made in up to four instalments. Check the club’s website for more information to see which type suits you or your family best. Players are reminded to ensure they secure their own appropriate insurance cover. MINIS COACHING COMMENCES: Coaching for Minis players aged six and upwards commences on Sunday, September 6th, at 10 am. We look forward to seeing all our youngsters from last season, as well as beginners, for these weekly sessions. REFURBISHED DRESSING ROOMS: In advance of the new 2026/2027 season, the dressing rooms and toilet facilities at Buccaneers RFC have been refurbished and given a long-awaited facelift. The Buccaneers clubhouse, including the dressing rooms, was built at a time when women’s rugby was in its infancy in Ireland. The new facilities have now been unveiled to great acclaim ahead of the upcoming season. This is the second phase of a 10-year development plan which will incorporate the installation of all-weather training facilities at the Buccaneers ground, the building of further dressing rooms and a gym, as well as an allpurpose meeting and community facility at the club. The developments will cater for future expansion as Buccaneers seeks to further integrate into the local community. The club is extremely grateful to the IRFU for a €50,000 grant. Thanks also to all the members who supported the Your Club Your Country draw, which raised €35,000 to inject into the total budget of over €150,000. Having availed of nearly €100,000 in government funding to upgrade the floodlighting last year, the focus now is on securing further grant aid in the next round of Community Sports Facilities Funding. The club development group would welcome input from any member who would like to get involved in future development projects. Anyone interested can contact club President Sean Flynn or group chair Eoin Reid as Buccaneers continues to play a vital part in the development of facilities for rugby and other sports, as Athlone moves towards city status, providing a centre of excellence in the Midlands and a community home at the heart of the town. CONDOLENCES: Deepest sympathy is extended to Martin Joyce and family on the passing of his father-inlaw, Edward Whyte.

Roscommon Masters football team with their supporters after their semi-final win last week in Edgeworthstown.

s t t u p t r o h S CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

CONNACHT SHIELD RESULTS: Congratulations to our Connacht Shield team who recorded a good win over Strandhill. Captain John Coffey’s team was: Home – Niall Keaney and Cathal Dowd, and Niall Loftus and Padraig Mac Shera, who won on 18. Away – Aaron Gibney and Keith Tighe lost on 18, while Alan Ffrench and Alan Forde halved their match. Last weekend the team lost 3-1 to Tubbercurry. The team was: Home – Alan Ffrench and Alan Forde, Niall Keaney and Paul O’Brien. Away – Niall Loftus and Padraic McShera, Damien Quigley and Cathal Dowd. Thanks to Captain John and the team for their efforts. QUALIFIER RESULTS: The winner will represent Carrick-onShannon Golf Club in the 3T’s National Final alongside Men’s Captain, Lady Captain and ladies’ competition winner Ann Louise Bohan. The final will be played at either Mount Juliet Estate or The K Club Palmer North Course, with entry fees going directly to 3T’s suicide prevention activities. Gents results: 1st: James Conners (43 pts); 2nd: Kevin Gilboy (41 pts); Gross: Charlie Boyle (35 pts); 3rd: Shane Kelly (41 pts). O.B.N SERIES: Results of the fifth O.B.N. Series, sponsored by Kevin Ward of Wynne’s Bar, Boyle: Cat. 1: Niall Loftus (39 pts); Cat. 2: Pat Gannon (47 pts); Cat. 3: Sam Boyle (43 pts); Cat. 4: Frank Mulvey (44 pts); Gross: Daniel Egan; Visitor: Dermot McDermott. There was a record entry for the CORA Systems Competition. Results: Cat. 1: Damien Quigley; Cat. 2: Devin Hanley; Cat. 3: Sam Boyle; Cat. 4: John Reynolds; Gross: David McDermott. The Grand Final takes place on September 5th. LADIES SCRAMBLE: Winners with 27 nett were Ann Keenan, Geraldine Conlon and Mary Maguire; 2nd: Noeleen Moffatt, Mary Blake and Trisha Doherty (30 nett); 3rd: Mary O’Rourke, Helen Lavin and Patricia Fitzgerald (32 nett); 4th: Eithne McGuire, Kathleen Martin and Mary Maguire (34 nett). PLAY IN PINK RESULTS: Around 200 golfers took part in a fantastic week of golf in support of NCBI. Gents winner: Paddy Duffy. Ladies 9-hole: 1st: Mena Doherty; 2nd: Veronica Sheeran; 3rd: Mary Layden. 18-hole: 1st: Carmel Stritch; 2nd: Mary Blake; Visitor: Liz Hogan. SENIORS RESULTS: Results from the Slieve Russell: 1st: Michael Kelly, Paddy Duffy, Mick Blak and Paddy Dillon (46 pts); 2nd: Damien Duignan, Dermot Conlon, Michael Duignan and Gerry Garvey (46 pts); 3rd: Robbie Donaldson, Kevin O’Rourke, Barry Donnellan and Pat Gannon Kilmore (44 pts). The overnight outing to Kells, Co. Meath, takes place on September 28th and 29th, with two rounds at Headfort Old and New courses, bed and breakfast and evening meal.

CASTLEREA CAPTAIN’S PRIZE: Captain Anthony Kelly’s competitions concluded on Saturday, August 22nd. Congratulations to Captain Anto, also Course Manager, on a great week of competitions on a

(News from local golf clubs)

wonderfully presented course. Ray Joyce won the men’s 36-hole stroke competition. Runner-up: Barry Finnegan; Gross: Dara Bruen; 3rd: Eddie Campion; first 18: Gerry McLoughlin; second 18: Eugene Flanagan. Yvonne Hanbury won the ladies’ 9-hole competition. Michael MacDermot won the men’s beginners putting competition, Ann Greene won the ladies’ beginners putting competition and Clive Kelly won the visitors’ prize. SPONSORED COMPETITIONS: Gary Greene Accounting and Taxation Services-sponsored ladies’ 18-hole competition: 1st: Ann Breslin; Runner-up: Margaret Waters. LOTTO: The winning bonus ball number for August 19th was 43. Winners Anthony Cahill, Tom Callaghan, Michael Clarke, Nigel McHugh and Paddy Mannion each received €100. Thanks to all who support the club lotto.

ROSCOMMON MEN: Open Friday sponsored by GoToFinance: 1st: Harry Gordon (46 pts); 2nd: Senan Kilbride (43 pts); 3rd: JP O’Gara (41 pts). Weekly competition sponsored by Class Grass: 1st: Padraig Walshe (47 pts); Cat. 1: Padraic Cuddy (41 pts); Cat. 2: Gerry Finn (43 pts); Cat. 3: Frank Beattie (45 pts); Gross: Alan Connaughton (40 pts). WOMEN: Gala Day sponsored by Kathleen Kearney Kelly. 18hole: 1st: Fen Thompson (43 pts); 2nd: Martina Glennon (43 pts); 3rd: Dolores Keane (41 pts). 9-hole: 1st: Paula Whyte (27 pts); 2nd: Cliona Baker (20 pts); 3rd: Marian Connolly (20 pts). SENIOR MEN: Sean Hanly Cup winner: Charlie Brennan (41 pts); Cat. 1: Matt Farrell (36 pts); Cat. 2: Des Bruen (34 pts); Cat. 3: JT Finn (33 pts); Cat. 4: Tommie Murphy (34 pts). Deuces: Matt Farrell, Michael Sharkey, Declan Browne, Michael Healy and Pauric Dervin. SENIOR WOMEN: 1st: Mary O’Keeffe (23 pts); 2nd: Paula Whyte (22 pts); 3rd: Marie Keane (20 pts); 4th: Bernie Maher (20 pts); 5th: Maura Quigley (19 pts). PARENT AND CHILD: There was a huge entry for the annual parent and child competition, sponsored by the MacGuigan family. Seven-hole winners: Clodagh Whyte and Rian Murray; 2nd: Richie and Luke Evans. Nine-hole winners: Daniel and Gerry McNulty; 2nd: Liam and Milo Casey. Thanks to everyone who supported the event. STEPHEN HESSION FUNDRAISER: The annual Stephen Hession Memorial fundraiser for Mayo Roscommon Hospice takes place this Saturday, August 29th. A raffle and auction will be held in the clubhouse after the golf and everyone is welcome. OLIVIA COSTELLO: Olivia plays in the KPMG Irish Open at the K Club this week. Many club members will travel to see her in action and we wish her the best of luck. THOMAS HIGGINS: Thomas begins his quest to reach the European Tour at qualifying school in Bristol this week. Forty players will progress to stage two in Spain next week. We wish Thomas the best of luck. INTER-CLUB: Our Jack O’Sullivan team defeated Loughrea last week and will now face Portumna in the next round.

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Kepak Roscommon SHC Round 5 Round-Up < BY SEAMUS DUKE

Four Roads 2-17 Oran 1-18

Four Roads sealed their place in the semi-finals with a hard-fought two-point win against Oran at Woodmount. There was never much between the sides and it took a Liam Óg Coyle goal in the 55th minute to bring Four Roads level, with Conor Morris grabbing the winning points late on. Oran started best and, with Paddy Fallon on song from frees, they led by 0-9 to 0-3 after 19 minutes. Four Roads hit four points on the bounce to get back into it, but in the final minute of the half Shane Keane got a stick to Paddy Fallon’s long drive to divert it into the Four Roads net. Then, in the last minute of injury time, Liam Óg Coyle was fouled in the large square. Noel Fallon’s penalty was saved by Jerry Fallon, but Conor Morris was following up and he fired home to leave the score Oran 1-11 Four Roads 1-9 at the break. Twice Oran led by four points in the second half, but Four Roads kept the scoreboard ticking over. Liam Óg Coyle’s well-taken goal in the 55th minute levelled the scores and, in the final minutes, a brace of points from Conor Morris (one free) saw the champions over the line. Teams and scorers Four Roads: Noel Fallon; Johnny Meares, James Dillon, Jimmy Hoey; Rory Coyle, Tommy Morris, James Cunniffe; Conor Kelly (0-1), Adam Kenny; Conor Morris (1-9, 7 frees), Jack Donnelly, Brian Mannion (0-1); Liam Óg Coyle (1-1), Conor Mulry (0-4), Adam Donnelly. Subs: Oisin Finneran (0-1) for Mannion (42), Trevor Fallon for Kenny (42), Cormac Mulry for C Kelly (56). Oran: Jerry Fallon; Michael T McCormack, Declan Leonard, Kevin Crehan; Paul Kenny (0-1), Eamon Kenny, Darragh McCormack; David McDermott, Seamus Hussey (0-1); Shane Keane (1-1), Paddy Fallon (0-8, 2 ‘65s’), Eoghan Grady (0-1); Joseph Henry (01), Micheal Hussey (0-1), Cathal Kenny (0-4). Subs: Rory Connolly for McCormack (45), Paddy McCormack for Henry (52), Thomas Fallon for Crehan (60), Brian McGann for M T McCormack (62). Referee: Francie Kelly.

Athleague 2-18 St Dominic’s 4-11

Athleague needed to win this clash to be certain of their place in the knockout stages and they did just that, but it was a real rollercoaster of a game that could have gone either way. Dominic’s will wonder just how they managed to lose this game. They shot 17 wides, dropped at least five more short and wasted a couple of goal opportunities too. However, all credit to Athleague, they were economical in attack and made the opposition pay for their squander mania. Dominic’s had goals on the board in the first half from Gavin Staunton after nine minutes and Jack Lohan after 18 minutes. But Cormac Kelly and Cian Murray were keeping Athleague ticking over in terms of points from play and frees, and at half-time it was St Dominic’s 2-6 Athleague 0-9. Noel Watson rattled home goal number three for Dominic’s on the restart and, just when it looked like Dominic’s would pull away, Athleague came back into it again. In the 42nd minute Tadgh Lyons scored an opportunist goal at the second attempt. But only four minutes later Dominic’s were in for a fourth goal when Ronan O’Meara fouled Connell Kennelly and Mickey Joe Egan blasted the resultant penalty to the Athleague net. It was score for score after that. Late points from Gavin Staunton and Jack Lohan looked to have secured a draw for Dominic’s, but Athleague had the final say, with Cian Murray on target to give his team the narrowest of victories. Teams and scorers Athleague: Ronan O’Meara; Eoghan O’Brien, Darragh Heavey, David Delaney; James Murray, Eoghan Coyle (0-1), Niall Connolly; Tadgh Lyons (1-0), Cormac Kelly (0-9, all frees); Cathal Crehan, Daniel McCormack, Naoise Coyle; Thomas Clayton (0-1), Cian Murray (14), Colin Murray (0-2). Subs: Gary Fallon (0-1) for McCormack (48), Adam Beckett for Clayton (60). St Dominic’s: Mark Miley (0-1, free); Mikey Moran, Mike Feely, Fergal Hoare; Ronan Kilcline, Micheal Byrne, Nathan O’Connor; Pauric Halpin, Ethan Connaughton; Jack Lohan (1-2), Johnny Murray, Connell Kennelly (0-1); Mickey Joe Egan (1-6, 1-0 pen, 2 frees), Noel Watson (1-0), Gavin Staunton (1-1). Subs: Colm Lyons for Murray (38), Sean Kilcline for R Kilcline (49). Referee: Eadhainn Mac Suibhne (Mayo).

Action from the recent Roscommon Gaels V Four Roads match in Lisnamult. Rory Coyle (Four Roads) in action. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from the recent Athleague v Pearses match in Lisnamult. Cormac Kelly (Athleague) bursts through the attack from Matthew Comerford and Daniel Mooney (Pearses). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Tremane 1-16 Pádraig Pearses 0-16

Tremane finished top of the group table and remain unbeaten in the championship after this hard-fought three-point win against a wasteful Pádraig Pearses side at Woodmount on Saturday evening. Pearses hit a total of 17 wides over the hour and, despite that, looked the better team in the opening half. At half-time they led by 0-9 to 0-5. Tremane were much better on the restart and,

when Evan Murray scored a fine goal in the 40th minute, it set them on their way. Peter Kellehan was once again a massive presence for Tremane as they eased into the last four of the championship. The play-off situation Tremane and Four Roads are now through to the semi-finals. In the quarter-finals, Oran will play Pádraig Pearses, while Athleague will meet St Dominic’s.

Four Roads crowned U-21 hurling champions < BY SEAMUS DUKE

Four Roads captured the Beirne Auto Repairs U-21 Hurling Championship title when they defeated Pádraig Pearses by 3-27 to 2-16 in Athleague on Saturday evening. Four Roads laid the foundation for their win in the opening half as they led by 3-16 to 0-5 at half-time. The goals came from Liam Óg Coyle, who scored two, and Tommy Morris.

Pearses were much better in the second half and, while they never looked like overhauling their neighbours, they had consolation goals from Daniel Mooney and substitute Joe Johnston. Four Roads captain Liam Óg Coyle was his team’s star performer with a personal tally of 2-8. Conor Morris contributed 0-9, including five frees, while Adam Kenny and Brian Mannion scored 0-3 each.

Action from the recent St. Dominic’s v Oran match in Knockcroghery. Joseph Henry (Oran) in action. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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Club Championship Previews Hodson Bay Hotel SFC < BY SEAMUS DUKE

Game of the Weekend Michael Glavey’s v Western Gaels on Sunday in Ballinlough at 4 pm (Group A)

Of all the senior games this weekend, this is the only real ‘knockout’ game. Put simply, the winners will progress while the losers will enter the relegation play-off battle. Michael Glavey’s will go into the game as favourites. They have not played as well this year as they have done over the past two seasons, but they have a lot of talented players in their ranks. Conor Hussey, Dylan Ruane, Darragh Heneghan, Niall Heneghan, Caoilean Fitzmaurice, Rob Heneghan, Daniel Hagney and Cathal Heneghan are all experienced and talented club players and Glavey’s will be hoping they can find their best form on Sunday. Western Gaels would dearly love a win here to avoid another relegation battle. They are relying on most of the tried and trusted from the past decade and a half, with Seanie McDermott, Finbar Cregg and Cathal Cregg still flying the flag proudly for their club. The Gaels will surely put up a major battle, but looking at both sides, it would be a big surprise if Glavey’s don’t pick up a first win of the campaign. Prediction: Michael Glavey’s

Group A Strokestown v St Brigid’s on Sunday in Strokestown at 4 pm

A very interesting meeting of the current Connacht senior and intermediate club football champions, and a chance for both sides to assess how they are fixed going into the play-offs. Brigid’s have been doing enough to keep their unbeaten run going, while Strokestown have been impressive in both their games so far. This will be a step up for them though. Brigid’s should have more than enough to prevail here. Prediction: St Brigid’s Group B

Roscommon Gaels v Boyle on Friday in Lisnamult at 8 pm

A very interesting clash that will decide who finishes second and third in the group. The Gaels will be cocka-hoop after their fantastic win against Clann na nGael in round two and will be hoping to continue that second-half form here. Boyle were poor against Pearses and will want to return to the form that saw them win the league final and beat Clann na nGael in recent weeks. Enda Smith may well return to the Boyle side, which would be a big boost to them. A hard game to predict. Maybe at home the Gaels might just have the edge. Prediction: Roscommon Gaels

Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses

Unfortunately, this is a ‘dead rubber’, with Clann already heading for the relegation play-offs. Pearses, who

finished top of the group table, have been excellent so far and should continue their winning run. Prediction: Pádraig Pearses Group C

Oran v Castlerea on Saturday in Castlerea at 6 pm

Oran are unbeaten and they have a chance to finish on top of the group table here. They were outstanding against Elphin but struggled at times against St Faithleach’s. Castlerea have a couple of outstanding young players like Dara and John Curran and, of course, their talisman Adam McDermott has also been playing well. This could be a very competitive match, but Oran should have enough to win their third game on the trot. Prediction: Oran Elphin v St Faithleach’s on Saturday in Elphin at 6 pm When these two teams met in the O’Gara Cup final, Elphin won very easily. However, the tables have turned since the championship started. The Murtaghs are back with Faithleach’s, while Elphin have been short a number of players. Elphin will fight ferociously because they know a defeat plunges them into the relegation picture. However, Faithleach’s look the better bet. Prediction: St Faithleach’s

McNulty Furniture IFC Group A St Dominic’s have been playing well with two wins, and they will meet St Barry’s in Strokestown on Friday night at 8 pm. Barry’s need a win but they are unlikely to get it here, as Dominic’s look too strong. Tulsk got their act together in round two and they will expect another win when they face St Brigid’s second team in Ballyforan on Friday night at 8 pm. Liam McNeill’s team should have a bit to spare in this one.

Action from last Friday’s Hodson Bay Group Senior Football Championship match in Strokestown. Jack Tumulty (Pádraig Pearses) under pressure from Mark Dwyer and Niall O’Donnell (Boyle). Photo: Bernire O’Farrell

Group B Creggs have been doing well and will be hot favourites to defeat Pádraig Pearses’ second string at Creggs on Saturday at 5 pm. Home advantage should see them through. St Michael’s and Shannon Gaels looks the game of the weekend in the IFC. It’s in Cootehall on Saturday at 5 pm. Local pride is at stake here and Michael’s get a hesitant vote to secure the bragging rights. Group C The clash of Éire Óg and Kilmore on Sunday in Castlerea at 2 pm is a very interesting one. Kilmore upset Fuerty in the last round, while Éire Óg looked back to their best against St Croan’s. Éire Óg should win this by five or six points. St Croan’s meet inconsistent Fuerty at Enfield at 2 pm on Sunday and this could be a very competitive affair. Fuerty get a hesitant nod, but don’t be surprised if Croan’s win on their home patch.

Action from last Friday’s Hodson Bay Group Senior Football Championship match in Rockfield. Liam Finneran (Castlerea) braces himself for the imminent tackle from Evan Gunn (Elphin). Photo: Bernie O’Farrel

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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No let-up as club championship action resumes LGFA round-up < KEVIN EGAN

There will be little time for reflection and recovery after the weekend’s games in the various Roscommon LGFA club championships, as the players are back in action tonight (Thursday) in most grades, following a decision by the county executive to avoid a clash with the Electric Picnic festival. That means there will be a festival of football across the county, and without doubt the headline act will be the meeting of Boyle and St. Brigid’s at Abbey Park. Both teams are in tremendous form with back-toback wins, and St. Brigid’s tally in their 5-19 to 6-9 win over St. Barry’s was the most scored in a single game by any team in the John Keane Kia Senior Championship for two years. Edel Beirne (St. Barry’s) and Lucy Sheffield (St. Brigid’s) both hit hat-tricks in a game where St. Barry’s started well, but Sheffield’s three green flags gave the home side a 3-8 to 2-4 interval lead at Kiltoom. Georgia Gerrity hit 1-5 from midfield for the Tarmonbarry club with Cara Cox and Emer Callaghan also on target with green flags. St. Brigid’s always had a more balanced threat up front in a fast-paced game however, and they racked up the points before clinching the win with two fourth quarter goals from Marion Nolan. Shannon Gaels kept their neighbours from Boyle at bay a lot longer in Croghan and when Sarah Meghan netted five minutes into the second half on what was her senior championship debut, there was just three points between the teams, 0-9 to 1-3. The introduction of the LGFA’s August ‘Player of the Month’ proved to be a turning point however as Saoirse Wynne came on for Suzie Keenehan after 36 minutes and she was pivotal to a run of 3-6 unanswered for the winners.

Shannon Kerins, Megan McKeon, and Isabella King led a stalwart defensive effort for the 2023 county champions while Caoimhe Cregg (14), Aisling Feely (1-3) and Katie Conroy (1-1) led the scoring in a 3-13 to 1-4 win for Boyle, a margin that could have been greater but for crucial defensive interventions from Niamh O’Beirne and goalkeeper Aisling Egan. Éire Óg are also riding high after they accounted for Clann na nGael at Johnstown, taking the biggest steps towards their 3-9 to 0-9 win shortly after half-time when Alannah McGreal and Rebecca Finan goaled in quick succession for the West Roscommon side. Clann were without Áine Connaughton and the presence of the county full-back might have made life tougher for Finan, who ended the game with 1-5. As it was, two points from returning emigrant Sinéad Farrell and 0-6 from Róise Lennon, as well as an impressive performance from county minor Christina Waldron, were among very few bright spots. Clann meet St. Dominic’s on Thursday, also in Johnstown, and the Knockcroghery club are also in the doldrums after succumbing to a 3-13 to 2-11 defeat to St. Ciarán’s. Ciara Dowd (2-6), Laura Mannion (1-3) and Shauna Kilroe (0-3) scored all bar one point for the winners, who were two points in front at half-time, then overcame a surge from the hosts at the start of the second half through Dowd’s second goal, scored from the penalty spot. Pearses and Harps make the early running Pádraig Pearses and Western Gaels experienced very different fortunes in 2025 in the Hannon’s Hotel IFC and it was no surprise then that it was one-sided fare in Frenchpark when the two sides met on Sunday. Teenagers Laura Glennon and Esmae Halpin were to the fore in Pearses’ 8-23 to 0-5 win, while Gráinne Lohan also weighed in with a second-half goal.

Aileen Hunt (Northern Harps) and Katie Conroy (Boyle) battle for the ball with Laoise Higgins (Northern Harps) as back-up. Northern Harps had tougher questions to Niamh Feeney, but overall the women in maroon answer in Kilbride but they came up with the just had that little bit more balance and quality, solutions they needed, and two goals apiece from with Michelle Rogers, Fiona Jones, Grace Jones Ciara Cunningham and Lauren Shanagher – not and Louise Brady catching the eye, their goals to mention crucial fourth-quarter goal saves coming from Emma Jones and Kate Murray. from Annette McDermott and Emma Gormley Four Roads are well in the hunt as they took – powered them to a 4-9 to 3-6 win over Ollie advantage of St. Faithleach’s rustiness in Lennon’s side. Ballyleague. The Shannonsiders were making By far the most competitive game of the day their first appearance of this championship, but in the intermediate championship was at Enfield, they fell short by 2-5 to 0-8, with Síofra and where Shannon Hibbitt struck 1-1 late on to give Clodagh Finneran getting the crucial goals for Michael Glaveys their first win of the Summer, Four Roads. 2-7 to 1-9 over St. Croan’s. O’Rourke Park played host to the other game in The early form in the Castlerea Vehicle this grade, with Castlerea eventually overcoming Recycling JFC hinted that Sunday’s local derby St. Michael’s/St. Ronan’s by 2-14 to 1-11, in no in Tulsk was a potential preview of the county small part due to a fantastic performance from final, and the quality of play in St. Mary’s 3-10 Lisa O’Rourke. to 1-12 win over Oran added further weight to At Junior B level, Boyle had a big win over that view. Michael Glaveys, Roscommon Gaels beat Orla Connolly put in a display of real leadership Pearses by 2-11 to 2-3, Kilbride edged a tight for Oran while Chloe Coyne marked herself out game against St. Dominic’s and St. Brigid’s as a potential future star by holding her own in exploited their goalscoring edge to beat Shannon a ding-dong one-on-one contest with county star Gaels by 7-6 to 1-5.

Pictured at last Thursday’s RLGFA U-16’s Semi-Final in Ballinameen. Colette Coyle (Boyle) looks to get Action from last Sunday’s RLGFA Senior Championship match in Croghan. Niamh O’Beirne (Shannon past Lauren Gillagan (Northern Harps). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell Gaels) with a tackle on Aisling Feely (Boyle). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 28 August 2026

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