Roscommon People - 28 August 2025

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Boyle ready for return of world class Hot Air Ballooning

Roscommon County Council, in association with Lough Key Forest and Activity Park and the Irish Ballooning Association, is proud to announce the return of the 53rd annual Hot Air Ballooning Championship and Festival to Lough Key Forest and Activity Park in Boyle this September 20th to September 26th

This world class event, also known as ‘The Irish Meet’, is the longest-running of its kind and has not been held in Roscommon since 1991. Now returning to Boyle after more than 30 years, the championships are the latest highlight of Roscommon County Council’s ongoing outdoor recreation campaign, ‘Breathe in Roscommon’ – a celebration of the county’s natural beauty, historic landscapes, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

First established in 1971, the championships have grown from hosting a handful of hot air balloons to more than 40, featuring pilots from England, Scotland, Wales, France, Germany, Chile, and Ireland competing in weeks of challenges to determine the overall winner. The championship has been hosted in counties including Waterford, Longford, Offaly, Kilkenny, Meath, and Cavan.

Now, this year, the championships will call Lough Key Forest and Activity Park in Boyle home for the duration of the festival. The championships, when last held in Boyle, were an integral part of the cultural and social life of the North Roscommon area. The event attracted many visitors to the county to marvel at the spectacular event, which could be viewed for miles outside the immediate Boyle area.

Those wishing to spectate at the championship can do so at 7 am and 4.30 pm for the morning and afternoon takeoffs. While flights within the balloons are not open to the public, there are, as always, a variety of thrilling activities available in Lough Key Forest and Activity Park to participate in.

WATCHING People

To describe August as a ‘month of heartbreak’ for the Barstool Boyos might be an exaggeration – but it has certainly been a pretty rough time.

HOW IT BEGAN… Endangered Species

some sort of dig? But they weren’t paranoid, not even when they saw people whispering about them on the street.

Yep, five weeks of frustration and trauma. Perhaps not as traumatic as Nixon’s downfall in ’74, Scotland’s notoriously ill-fated World Cup campaign in 1978, the marathon Brexit saga, or Eamon Dunphy’s chat show reign. But something similar…

Rather like the emergence of Mrs Brown’s Boys, it came without adequate warning. The boyos were caught off-guard.

Their column appeared as normal on page 2 in the Roscommon People dated July 18th – but after that, the lights suddenly went out (not literally).

Issue dated July 25th simply didn’t include their column, a detailed piece of work which focussed on bar customers who shamelessly tear up beer mats as they talk. (The boyos had put four or five weeks into preparing that particular column). They were devastated when it didn’t appear.

Still, their column had been left out before. The odd time. In truth, tensions between the boyos and the Editor had been growing for months. They knew he might ruthlessly drop them once in a while, but they had no inkling of the nightmare that was to come: A trend

How it continued…

The first week of August had begun just like any other week. Deputy Matt Carthy was on the radio, the papers were obsessed with rugby, Vogue Williams was on every TV ad break, and the boyos were instantly recognisable local celebrities… unable to walk down the street without being mobbed by the Pub Bore and two codgers they owe a few quid to.

Imagine their shock when they checked the People (dated August 1st) and discovered their column had been left out again. Imagine! Just imagine it.

Ready to continue?

Okay, now there was a... trend. The nightmare was only BEGINNING. Week after week, the boyos’ column went unpublished.

Thebarstoolboyos

Suddenly, they were journalistically homeless. In a normal week, they hated it when readers shouted at them (and occasionally threw old bananas) as they walked downtown. Now – during this barren late July/August period – they hated not being shouted at.

What was the Editor thinking? (Thinking which wine he should opt for in France, it turned out). While they had followed his instructions to email their weekly column directly to him during August, they thought better of disturbing his holidays (at least that was the legal advice they received). So the boyos simply sucked it up, this forgettable, unforgettable August.

At no point did they hold it against Emmett Corcoran that he was now in their page 2 spot – with his ‘Summer Satire’ column. They weren’t paranoid. Mind you, summer satire? Huh! Was that meant as

No, Mr Corcoran’s sudden takeover of their page never remotely annoyed them, even if there is a recording doing the WhatsApp rounds which purports to be the boyos crying into their pints in their local one Saturday night. In the recording, they can (allegedly) be heard shouting out (while frenetically tearing up beer mats) – ‘Writing about Mark Twain? That Corcoran guy’s really turning the screw! He’s as bad as Healy!’ As the torture continued, the boyos thought of all that had been lost. Lost: Their AllIreland final column. Lost: Their ‘Presidential election speculation’ column. Lost: How they bumped into half of Oasis in a Dublin pub, and why Noel Gallagher was non-committal on their suggestion that the band should play Hyde Park next summer. As for their critique of the Rose of Tralee not appearing in print, there are no words. Literally. No words. Even more devastatingly, also lost: Their fees and expenses.

What now?

The Editor swanned back into the office last week, singing the praises of France and acting as if nothing had happened. Word is, this column – this summary of what actually really happened – might be published. As for the overall saga, there is tentative talk of talks about talks, but that might only be talk. In any case, the boyos’ solicitor – while rolling his eyes – has on their instructions drafted a long email to the Editor. In it, he seeks a guarantee that their column will ALWAYS be published “in order to preserve their journalistic integrity, their credibility, and their ability to have a few pints each week”. He signed off as follows: “Thank you for your attention to this matter.” Watch this space. The boyos certainly will!

*There is no suggestion that Watergate (i.e. the Nixon scandal) or the Brexit saga have been remotely as traumatic for the public as Mrs Brown’s Boys.

PIC OF THE WEEK: Roscommon Gaels defeated Tremane by 1-17 to 3-8 in the Kepak Roscommon SHC at Lisnamult last Sunday. Tremane’s Shane McAndrew with a spectacular diving block which denied Richard Walsh a probable point. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin
Image courtesy of Lough Key Forest and Activity Park.

Louise’s Beauty Studio celebrates 22 years in business

Louise’s Beauty Studio in Roscommon will celebrate 22 years in business on this Friday, August 29th. Louise, proprietor of the very popular business, says: “The time has absolutely flown by! I’ve seen so many changes and a few challenges, but mainly have been so lucky in business. Lots of new treatments were added to the salon over the years to keep up with all the new trends.

“I’m extremely lucky with the amazing brands I stock, especially the world-renowned Repechage brand, which has won me awards and also the chance to travel to various parts of the world for trainings and launches – including getting to speak as their guest in London earlier this year about my business here in Roscommon, to attendees from eighteen countries around the world.

“Like everyone who is self-employed, the hours are long, with not a lot of time off... but this is only possible due to my amazing clients who have supported me so much since day one! I’m so lucky.”

In 2021, Louise trained in oncology aesthetics, and is now providing safe treatments and products for clients going through or post cancer treatments, in addition to her other various services.

“The salon is extremely busy now all year round, as my regulars have pre-booked their appointments well ahead, and bridal appointments bring me all around the county and beyond.

“Next month I will travel to Poland for the training and launch of the most advanced facial to hit the world from Repechage, and this facial and new products will be available in the salon from October.”

loyal support and friendship.

“I’m so grateful to all my clients, and my family and friends, for their support to me over the past 22 years”, Louise concluded. “Hopefully there’s lots more to come for Louise’s Beauty Studio.”

For more, visit louisesbeautystudio.com, call 090 6637939, or email info@louisesbeautystudio.com.

Keep up to date with Louise’s Beauty Studio on social media by following @ studiolouisesbeauty on Instagram and Louise’s Beauty Studio on Facebook.

Thanks to all my amazing clients for their support over the last 22 years

Having worked as a model for 12 years, Louise has gained vast knowledge of the beauty & skincare industry. Her experiences spurred her to become a leader within the beauty industry offering superb customer care, confidentiality & advanced anti-age treatments

Residents to leave Ballyleague centre as owners rule out IPAS use

< EMMETT CORCORAN

The Roscommon People can confirm that residents currently living at the former Costello’s Nursing Home in Ballyleague will be moved to alternative accommodation later this week.

A letter issued by the Department of Justice on August 25th, and seen by this newspaper, confirms that transfers are scheduled for Friday, August 29th. Residents will be transported around midday to their new residence, the former Park House Hotel in Edgeworthstown, Co Longford.

The correspondence further states that the Ballyleague property is “no longer under consideration” for use as an International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre. It advises residents to bring their belongings with them and outlines arrangements for those with medical or special accommodation needs, who may apply for support through official Health Service Executive channels.

On Tuesday, property owners Shay and Sarah Costello issued a statement to clarify their position. They confirmed that they have not and will not be making any application for the building to be used as an IPAS centre in the future. “At this stage we do not know when the residents will be moving but we are liaising with the company who are running the centre,” the statement said.

The Costellos added that Harveydale

Local politicians welcome clarity on Ballyleague centre

Local politicians have welcomed confirmation that the former Costello’s Nursing Home in Ballyleague will not be converted into an IPAS centre.

Cllrs Larry Brennan and Sean Mimnagh, Senator Gareth Scahill, Cllr Nigel Dineen and Midlands-North-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly issued a joint statement on Tuesday in response to community concerns.

They pointed to the Department of Justice letter dated August 25th, which confirmed the building “is no longer under consideration” for international protection use, and to the Costello family’s public assurance that no such application will be made.

The public representatives stated: “These are the facts surrounding the future use of the centre. Despite speculation to the contrary, we do not anticipate the opening of any IPAS centre at this location.”

The confirmations – from the Department of Justice, Harveydale Ltd, and the property owners – follow a public meeting in Ballyleague on Monday night, where about 90 people gathered to raise concerns over speculation about the building’s future.

Ltd – the company managing the property for emergency Ukrainian accommodation – had informed them it will cease operations once residents are moved. They also noted that Roscommon County Council determined the premises was not suitable for IPAS use under Section 5 planning law. It is understood that approximately 10 staff at the centre received their 10-day termination notice recently.

It is understood that the protest group Ballyleague-Lanesborough Says No to IPAS are organising a protest with respect to the future use of the property, but this publication has it on good authority from sources familiar with the matter that the subject property will not be utilised for the purposes of an IPAS centre in the future.

They said that any future proposal would require planning approval, health and safety certification, and local consultation, none of which have taken place. “If there is any change in these details in the coming months we will immediately come back to all local people and neighbours with a further update,” they added.

The joint statement followed a public meeting in Ballyleague on Monday evening, where about 90 people gathered to express concern at the speculation.

Louise wanted to take this opportunity to express her heartfelt thanks to everyone for their
Pictured is Louise of Louise’s Beauty Studio.
The residence in Ballyleague, formerly Costello’s Nursing Home.

Edenville House approved for new €7m community role

In what is seen as a major milestone for Roscommon Town and the wider community, Roscommon County Council unanimously approved Part 8 planning for the development of Edenville House (formerly Black’s House) into a multi-purpose community facility. The decision was confirmed on Monday of this week.

This €7m project will preserve the building’s rich heritage while creating a valuable resource for the Roscommon community and visitors alike.

Cllr Larry Brennan, a member of the Roscommon Town Team and former official of same, expressed his enthusiasm at the development.

“As a member of Roscommon Town Team and former officer I’m thrilled that this project has been progressed to this stage. It was identified at one of the earliest meetings of Roscommon Town Team as a long-term project that would be of huge value to the community if its fabulous and so valuable heritage and history could be preserved and used as a facility for the entire community.”

Cllr Brennan praised the efforts of his colleagues, saying, “Well done on the perseverance of my

colleagues in Roscommon Town Team and the wider Edenville sub-group for sticking with their vision.”

He singled out former councillor Orla Leyden, noting: “I have to say a huge well done to former councillor Orla Leyden who has been the major driving force behind this project for at least 20 years. Orla had a vision for this project and was single-minded in seeing it to fruition.”

Cllr Brennan added, “I was de-

lighted to propose the Part 8 at a Roscommon Municipal District Meeting and it was passed unanimously. I have believed for many years that the history and heritage of this building is priceless and will be of huge value to the community.” He also commended the Council, stating, “Well done to Roscommon County Council for seeing the huge potential in this building and buying into and supporting the project.”

newsbriefs

Roscommon SPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (Roscommon SPCA) will hold Church gate collections across three local parishes over the weekend of August 30th and 31st, 2025. Collections will take place on Saturday, August 30th at St Mary’s Church, Gortaganny. On Sunday, August 31st, volunteers will be present at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Ballinlough, and St Patrick’s Church, Granlahan. Roscommon SPCA is a volunteer-led organisation, with all funds raised going directly to animal welfare services in the county. Further details about the charity’s work can be found at roscommonspca.ie.

Monster Bingo in Lecarrow for Brazilian Mission Fund

Get your markers ready for a night of bingo in aid of the Fr Pat Brennan Brazilian Mission Fund, happening on Friday night, the 29th of August. The first bingo call will take place at 8.30 pm sharp. Books are priced at a half book for €5, full book for €10, double book for €15, flyer €2 or 3 for €5. St John’s Community Centre is located adjacent to the public harbour in Lecarrow village, with ample parking facilities available. For

Kilcroan Cemetery committee’s thanks

A big thanks to everyone who attended the annual Cemetery Mass in Kilcroan Cemetery on Sunday. Attendees were again blessed by a lovely day. Thanks are extended to Fr Pat and Fr Julian for

Martin Shanagher Audiologist
Claire Shanagher Audiologist
The Roscommon Military Barracks (Edenville House/Black’s House) was built in 1702.

NewsPeople

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21 Gardaí for north-west, but Roscommon misses out – Scahill

The recent Gardaí attestation ceremony welcomed 154 new Gardaí at the Garda College in Templemore. Comprising 122 men and 32 women, these probationer Gardaí will be assigned to divisions across Ireland, with a strong emphasis on strengthening staffing in regions outside Dublin, particularly in the Southern and North-western areas.

This marks the largest deployment to non-Dublin areas in the past year, with 66 Gardaí assigned to the Southern Region (including 20 each to Limerick City and Cork City) and 21 to the North-western Region. The Dublin Metropolitan Region will receive 45 new Gardaí.

Local Fine Gael senator Gareth Scahill welcomed the 21 new Gardaí allocated to the North-western Region but expressed disappointment over the lack of additional re-

sources for Co Roscommon.

“A visible Garda presence is vital for safe communities, and while I’m de-

lighted for the North-west, I’m disappointed that Roscommon, including Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, and Roscommon Town, has not

received additional manpower despite strong cases made over the past year,” Senator Scahill said. He reiterated the effective-

ness of increased Garda numbers in preventing crime and thanked the new recruits for their commitment to public service.

Roscommon ICA meeting

The Roscommon Town ICA guild would like to welcome all members back after the summer break. The next meeting will take place in Hannon’s Hotel on Tuesday, September 2nd, at 8 pm. The guild is always open to new members, who can avail of the many offerings, including interesting and informative speakers each month, as well as various workshops, activities, and outings. Looking forward to seeing you all there, refreshed and ready for the year ahead!

CCÉ Ros Comáin to host set dancing classes

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Baile Ros Comáin is hosting set dancing classes with Karen Feerick, starting Wednesday, September 17th

The lessons will be held at the junior site of St Coman’s Wood, with children classes (age 7+) from 7 pm to 8 pm, and adult classes from 8 pm to 9 pm. The first class is free of charge, with the remaining term (six weeks) costing €30 for children or €40 for adults, with a family rate of €70 per term. To book your place, contact Patricia on 087 9316673.

Pictured at the Roscommon Races were John Gilmore, Pat Rogers and John O’Rourke. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Anthony Cahill and Ann and Martin Dowd. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at last Saturday’s Roscommon Pride March were Senator Gareth Scahill, Cllr Liam Callaghan (Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and Cllr John Keogh. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

THURSDAY

Memories of ‘The Leaving’ I liked Home Economics from day one – even before learning how to make French toast in class.

That culinary leap was certainly a highlight for me. This was a subject I could warm to. It was wide-ranging, practical… everyday stuff brought to life.

Still, being obsessed with sport, and tending to only fully concentrate in English and History classes, I settled into pass level Home Economics… in between daydreaming, playing football and generally whiling the time away.

Like just about every principal’s office, the one in Newtownforbes was intimidating. If a student wasn’t in that daunting room on an errand, it was usually to receive a dressing-down, maybe even a few sizzling cracks of an ash rod on the rapidly reddening palm of your hand.

The day I went back to school to receive my Leaving Cert results, I felt some trepidation – but also a sense of liberation.

We had a friendly chat, Sr Immaculata and I. She gave me some tips for adulthood (I didn’t reciprocate, not being confident enough to tell a Reverend Mother how to live her life).

When she handed me my results, I suddenly remembered the strange thing I did the day the Home Economics exam papers were being handed out. In a TV quiz, you sometimes see a contestant gamble when given a choice of questions, opting for the much harder one because the cash prize is greater. My version of that happened on the fateful morning of the Home Economics exam. In a rash act, I asked for the Higher Level/Honours paper, even though I’d only studied the ‘pass’ course.

Now, a couple of months on, a glimpse at my results revealed my gamble had backfired. I kept the grim details to myself (there was no point in disappointing the principal as well).

As for my overall Leaving Cert, I was happy with how I’d done.

As we made our way along the dusty, drab corridor one last time, my friends and I began planning our night of cele-

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was… paul@roscommonpeople.ie

brations. An era had ended. Bright rays of sunshine were symbolically flowing in through the windows, ushering us towards a new world.

Just as freedom beckoned, I spotted my Home Economics teacher. Mrs Corkery was actually one of my favourite teachers. Straight away, I knew that… she knew. She had just found out about my ill-judged self-promotion to an Honours paper on the day of the exam.

Frowning, grimacing indeed, she chastised me for my foolhardiness. I remember that nice woman’s (justifiable) glare to this day.

It crossed my mind to thank her for teaching me to make French toast so well, but I thought better of it.

*Congratulations to all students who received their Leaving Certificate results today.

FRIDAY

In praise of books

A great book – even a very good one – tends to stay with you for life. Wuthering Heights was the first great book I read. There have been

many more. Losing oneself in a book is one of life’s great pleasures. But will it remain ever thus?

On Today FM this evening, Matt Cooper and guests were discussing the decline in reading of books. There was reference to a 40% fall-off in ‘reading for pleasure’ in recent years. In one country, purchases of book have fallen to an astonishingly low average of 0.5 books per person per year. In Ireland, we still buy on average about 2.5 books per person per year.

It’s not hard to work out why this very worrying downturn exists. Social media/smartphones have taken over. These days, we are so obsessed with our phones, we simply don’t have the time – or the attention span – to commit to a book. We want instant gratification/entertainment, submitting ourselves to the altar of algorithms.

For those of you who feel you’ve fallen under the spell of your phone – at the expense of reading books – my simple tip is: set aside a day of the week, or maybe even a week of the year, during which you commit to reading a book

I always try to catch up with books on holidays and over Christmas. Re-

cently, I (finally) read Paul McGrath’s powerful autobiography (ghost writer: Vincent Hogan), Michael Harding’s I Loved Him From The Day He Died, two books on World War II, and George Orwell’s Down and Out in Paris and London

My favourite read of the holiday was the late Hugh Leonard’s brilliantly evocative memoir of growing up in Dublin in the 1940s and 1950s, ‘Home Before Night’

I would strongly encourage people to keep reading books, and parents to persuade their children to do so!

SATURDAY

Heather & Sean

You like the things children say? What about the things politicians say? They can be just as endearing!

Last October, Heather Humphreys –then a Fine Gael TD – announced she would not be contesting the General Election.

She explained: “This is something I’ve thought long and hard about and the reason is very simple. I’ll be 65 next year and if I ran again I’d be

nearly 70 by the end of the next Dáil term and I’m just not physically able to keep going for that long.”

Fair enough. Heather had made her position clear. She didn’t feel she had the stamina for five more years in public life.

Naturally, I immediately dismissed the Monaghan lady from my Fantasy President considerations.

In July of this year, Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly, who is about as media-shy as Kim Kardashian, ruled himself out of the upcoming presidential election.

There were tears in my eyes (not really) as I read his statement: “When I look at it deeply, it’s a largely ceremonial role and you don’t have that much power and influence ... I like to be involved politically.”

It wasn’t easy, but I erased Heather and Sean from my mind. After all, if Heather couldn’t face five more years as a TD, she was hardly going to commit to a potential seven-year stint as President! And if Sean felt as recently as July that he’d prefer to be “involved politically” because the presidency is “a largely ceremonial role”, he was hardly going to change his mind!

But life is strange. After Mairead McGuinness pulled out of the presidential race on health grounds, imagine my shock when Heather and Sean both announced they would be seeking the Fine Gael nomination after all. Now Heather’s “tank is full” – while Sean says “the time is right.” I should never have doubted the heroic commitment to public service that’s out there!

My head is reeling from The Touching Tale of Heather & Sean, but I’m not sure I’ve ever been so moved, so excited (to be continued, no doubt).

SUNDAY/MONDAY Premier League

As usual the hype is ridiculous –but it’s good to have a new Premier League season underway. Highlights so far: Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes in classic ‘whinge’ mode – and 10-man Newcastle’s epic comeback against Liverpool, thwarted in the last minute (Liverpool winning an absolute classic 3-2).

Dysart Church marks 200 years of faith and community

Last Sunday, August 24th, St Patrick’s Church in Dysart, south Roscommon, celebrated its bicentenary with a vibrant gathering of parishioners, clergy, and visitors from as far as Boston.

The momentous occasion, marking two centuries of Catholic worship, was led by Bishop Kevin Doran, who presided over a concelebrated Mass of Thanksgiving alongside Fr Francis Beirne, Fr Ray Milton, and Fr Liam Devine.

The church, part of the united parishes of Ballyforan, Dysart, and Tisrara, stands as a testament to the enduring faith of this rural community. Built in 1825, St Patrick’s emerged during a time of hardship, as Ireland grappled with the aftermath of the Penal Laws.

Originally a modest barn-like structure, the church has evolved into a striking colonnaded lime-

stone edifice, adorned with magnificent stained-glass windows. For two centuries, it has served as a spiritual haven, weathering historical challenges like the Famine, revolution, and emigration. Each pew invites families to come together in prayer, to kneel, worship, listen, and offer their glory and praise to God.

The celebrations began with

the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at the church entrance, followed by refreshments and entertainment at Dysart Community Centre.

A souvenir booklet, tracing the history of Christianity in Dysart from Patrician times to today, was launched, featuring photographs and stories of the community’s past and future

aspirations of this close-knit community. Visitors from the USA and beyond joined locals, reflecting the global reach of Dysart’s faithful. The event highlighted St Patrick’s as a beacon of hope and unity for another century and celebrated the community’s deep Christian identity and gratitude.

Pictured are members of the Kelly family from America, with Deacon Tom Burke, Bishop Kevin Doran and Fr Francis Beirne.
Photo: Clare Frances Photography
Pictured at the recent bicentenary celebrations of Dysart Church were Adrian, book publisher of the souvenir booklet, Bishop Kevin Doran and Fr Francis Beirne. Photo: Clare Frances Photography
Richie Gormley from Boston pictured with Bishop Kevin Doran at the bicentenary celebrations for Dysart Church last Sunday.
Pictured are Fr Ray Milton, Deacon Tom Burke, Bishop Kevin Doran and Fr Francis Beirne, celebrating the bicentenary of St Patrick’s Church in Dysart. Photo: Clare Frances Photography

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION

Roscommon County Council is seeking expressions of interest from Hoteliers, owners of Guest Accommodation, B&Bs and self-contained own door units who wish to have their facility or rooms included in the Councils’ list of Emergency Accommodation for homeless families and individuals. The accommodation must be located within County Roscommon and have reliable public transport connections, offering frequent services.

An Expression of Interest Application Form can be downloaded on Roscommon County Councils website at: https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/ services/housing/homelessness/

Forms should be returned for the attention of the Administrative Officer at housing@roscommoncoco.ie

Deadline for submission is Wednesday, 10th September at 4.00pm

Roscommon County Council

Housing Business Unit

Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Date: 29th August 2025

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 the provision of a type B pedestrian crossing on the R 366 at Castle Street, Cloonbrackna and Ballypheasan Townlands, Roscommon Town

Provision of a type B pedestrian crossing on Castle Street, Roscommon Town

The proposed development consists of a new footway build out to provide forward visibility of pedestrians, new linear drainage channel with new road gullies, new type B zebra pedestrian crossing along with zebra pedestrian crossing sign.

The project involves:

• Site clearance works

• Construction of a raised table pedestrian crossing.

• Construction of new footpaths

• Surface water drainage works

• Installation of new road signage to alert motorists and enhance overall safety in the area

• Other ancillary works including the provision of road markings

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ORAL HISTORY COLLECTOR!

BECOME AN ROSCOMMON ORAL HISTORY COLLECTOR!

COLLECTOR!

Want to help preserve Roscommon’s stories for future generations?

Want to help preserve Roscommon’s stories for future generations?

Want to help preserve Roscommon’s stories for future generations?

Join our free volunteer training sessions with oral historian Dr Tomás Mac Conmara:

Join our free volunteer training sessions with oral historian Dr Tomás Mac Conmara:

Join our free volunteer training sessions with oral historian Dr Tomás Mac Conmara:

• In-Person: Sat 6 Sept 2025, 10am–1.30pm, County Library, Roscommon

• In-Person: Sat 6 Sept 2025, 10am–1.30pm, County Library, Roscommon

• In-Person: Sat 6 Sept 2025, 10am–1.30pm, County Library, Roscommon

• Online: Wed 10 Sept 2025, 6.30pm–9pm (via Teams)

• Online: Wed 10 Sept 2025, 6.30pm–9pm (via Teams)

• Online: Wed 10 Sept 2025, 6.30pm–9pm (via Teams)

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 29th August 2025 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

Learn how to record oral histories, ensure ethical practice, and support the Roscommon Oral Heritage Collection.

Learn how to record oral histories, ensure ethical practice, and support the Roscommon Oral Heritage Collection.

Learn how to record oral histories, ensure ethical practice, and support the Roscommon Oral Heritage Collection.

Places are limited. Registration required: email: heritage@roscommoncoco.ie

Places are limited. Registration required: email:

Places are limited. Registration required: email: heritage@roscommoncoco.ie

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS

ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Road to be closed: L6144 Scramogue. Length of Closure 150m. L6144

Closure starting 100m from the N5 Junction with the LS-6144 and finishing 250m from the same junction

Period of Closure: 26th August to 17th October 2025 26th

Alternative Routes: Via the R371, and back onto the LS-6144 in Scramogue Village

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Mark Keaveney

Director of Services

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

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 26th September 2025 via the Council’s Public Consultation Portal or alternatively in writing or email marked “Provision of a Type B pedestrian crossing, Castle Street, Roscommon Town” and submitted to: Roscommon County Council, Roads and Transportation Department, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98 or email roads@roscommoncoco.ie

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Date of Notice: 29th August 2025

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Road Reference Townland Closure duration Section of Closure Proposed Diversion R361 Frenchpark to Castlerea Frenchpark 22nd September to 3rd November Length of closure 400m. Closure starting 800m southwest from Frenchpark Crossroads, and finishing 1200m from Frenchpark Crossroads

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Mark Keaveney

Director of Services Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Mark Keaveney Director of Services Economic, Planning and Physical Development

From Frenchpark, head west on the N5, turning off for Ballaghaderreen on the old Dublin Road, L1244. In Ballaghaderreen, head southbound on the R293 for 3.3km, to turn left and head southeast on the R325 as far as junction with the R361

Roscommon hosts

all-flat card on Monday

Following on from a very successful Family Day last week, Roscommon Racecourse is all set to race again for an all-flat card on Monday, September 1st

The race for the Jockey’s Championship is really heating up, and Colin Keane and Dylan Browne McMonagle – who are at the top of the table – were involved in a very tight finish to the feature last week, with Keane’s mount Check This Out winning the race by an inch, over the well supported Giovanni Girogio.

The winner is trained by Noel Meade, who is enjoying a fine season with his flat runners, and those two riders and all the main flat yards will be represented at Roscommon Racecourse on September 1st Between now and then, it would be great to get a good drop of rain – Roscommon Racecourse has their own water supply, which has served the course very well all summer. The jockeys have been very complimentary about the ground all year; hopefully the ‘Heavens will open’ at some stage, as it’s a labour-intensive job to get the track right. The ground staff have done a marvellous job all year.

The race sponsors are LIDAN and EBF. The best turned out prizes in each race are spon-

sored by Casey Lawnmowers of Fuerty, County Roscommon. Roscommon Racecourse has had a great year so far, and attendances have remained very consistent. Roscommon Racecourse would like to thank their loyal patrons for their continued support.

There will be special admission prices on Monday, September 1st – €10 for adults, and €5 for OAPs and students. Ticket offers are available, so do log onto roscommonracecourse.ie and

keep up to date with all news and lots more on Roscommon Racecourse’s social media channels.

A list of remaining fixtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can also be found on roscommonracecourse.ie. For enquiries, email contact@roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288.

Roscommon Racecourse: come for the racing, stay for the craic!

At the Roscommon Races last week were Owen Gavin, Stella Gaco, Brooklyn and Ken Kennedy.
Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Among the crowds at Roscommon Races last week were Dylan Kelly, Carmel Sharkey, Chloe Donnellan and Thomas Byron. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Sally Towey and Ella Bailey. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Keith, Lorraine, and Frankie McDonald for Eugene Murphy Cabaret Show

The Eugene Murphy Summer Cabaret Show is thrilled to have Keith, Lorraine, and Frankie McDonald back at the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown this Tuesday night, September 2nd The group, who appeared earlier this year at the venue, are hugely impressive, and their knowledge and professionalism in relation to the world of music is second to none.

The great Frankie McDonald is a legend, and his long association with the Joe Dolan Band, where he was a key member, endeared him to a huge cohort of music lovers. Frankie’s incredible musical talent still lives on as good as ever, and he is recognised to this day as one the top artists in the business.

His son and daughter Keith and Lorraine have carved out a very popular career in the live mu-

sic scene, and are both outstanding performers and musicians. Lorraine has followed her Dad into trumpet playing, which is a hugely popular part of her show in addition to her popular singing voice. Keith makes up the trio with a great singing voice, and is, like his sister, a tremendous instrumentalist.

This is a must-see show for all, no matter what genre of music you follow. Doors open at 8 pm, and the show commences at 8.30 pm, with two solid hours of non-stop live talent. The show will commence with 20 minutes of local talent.

Meanwhile, Eugene Murphy has indicated this week that he intends to make a major announcement, hopefully next week, in relation to the extension of the Cabaret Show and other music-related matters.

River Hind/Jiggy clean-up underway – McDermott

Clean-up operations for the Riv-

er Hind, also known as the River Jiggy, officially commenced this week in Roscommon town and surrounding areas, marking a significant step forward in improving flood defences in the Roscommon area.

In a press statement, Cllr Marty McDermott, a vocal advocate for local infrastructure improvements, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its critical role in preventing floods that may impact the community.

McDermott, stating that he is “deeply passionate about safeguarding Roscommon’s waterways” says he has long campaigned for enhanced flood-related measures, emphasised the works’ importance for residents, landowners, and businesses alike.

Many people have suffered severe impacts from past flash flooding and storms, with landowners particularly affected by water damage to agricultural lands and properties.

“This is also very important for the residences, landowners, and businesses in the area that have been affected badly in the past by flash flooding and storms,” Cllr McDermott outlined.

Keith, Lorraine, and Frankie McDonald
Cllr Marty McDermott pictured at the location of the clean-up operation.

Slimming World

Slimming World

Tuesday 5:30pm and 7:00pm

Breanne – 086 0867377

CASTLEREA

O’Rourke GAA Centre, The Demesne, Castlerea, County Roscommon

Saturday 9:30am

Trish – 087 8581325

Wednesday 7.30am and 9.30am 5:30pm and 7:00pm Pauline – 087 1878701

STROKESTOWN

Sports & Community Centre, Lisroyne, Strokestown, County Roscommon

Saturday 8:00am and 9:30am Breanne – 086 0867377

Back to school, back to you – and a fresh new look for Slimming World groups

The summer holidays are always a busy time, filled with family meals, days out, and keeping children enter tained. Now that the new school term has begun, many parents are finding the perfect opportunity to take a little time for themselves. Slimming World is in viting them to do just that by joining their local group – which has recently been given a fresh new look.

The updated groups have been de signed to make every slimming jour ney more inspiring, more supportive, and more enjoyable than ever before. At the centre of this refresh is ‘Opera tion Joy’ –Slimming World’s way of celebrating the positives along the way and finding fun in the journey. Whether it’s members noticing clothes feeling more comfortable, feeling more ener getic, or enjoying delicious food while still working towards weight-loss goals, every win is celebrated.

Here’s what members can now look forward to in Slimming World’s newlook groups: more time for members (the old ‘one by one’ approach has been replaced with a more flexible format, giving everyone the chance to join in if they wish, without any pressure to do so), even more inspiration (groups are filled with fresh ideas, tips, and recipes, shared by both consultants and fellow members), personalised support (encouragement is tailored, whether someone is celebrating a milestone or returning after a challenging week), and a relaxed

Family Day for Palestine in Strokestown

Roscommon/Palestine

Solidarity Campaign are having a Family Day event in Strokestown Park on Sunday, August 31st, from 12 pm to 4 pm.

Both Irish and Palestinian culture will be celebrated at the event, with music, food and storytelling in store. There will also be children’s entertainment, African drumming, jewellery making, and more!

Attendees are invited to bring a picnic to enjoy on the day – tea, coffee, and ice cream available on site. This event will be indoor and outdoor to allow for weather conditions. Entry is free. Donations can be made to the Irish Red Cross, in aid of Gaza. All support greatly appreciated.

OWNED AND IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY!

SLIMMING GROUPS ARE HERE TO STAY!

Weight loss drugs can’t replace the power of group support for lasting weight loss

bers are free to share if they choose, or simply sit back, absorb the ideas, and enjoy the uplifting, supportive environment).

The results are already speaking for themselves. Groups that have begun running under this new format are seeing fantastic weight-loss achievements.

Members are finding themselves feeling more motivated, more engaged, and more successful than ever before.

Many are reporting steady, sustainable weight losses – proving that the new structure is helping people feel empowered to stay on track and reach their goals.

this week, Slimming World believes now is the perfect time for parents to put themselves first again. The organisation remains committed to helping members feel healthier, happier, and more confident. With the new group structure and ‘Operation Joy’ at the heart of every session, members are leaving each week not only lighter on the scales, but also feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take on the week ahead.

Slimming World warmly welcomes anyone who would like to come along and experience the difference for themselves.

Summer round-up and the Drive for Five – Roscommon Special Olympics

Roscommon Special Olympics are a thriving club based in Roscommon Town. They have a membership of 60 athletes, who vary in age from very young to adults in their late 60s. The club provide year-round sports training and social activity, where athletes receive continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships with their families, other athletes from a range of sports codes, and the wider community.

It has been a very busy summer for members of the club. With the help of Roscommon Sports Partnership, they were able to take part in weekly badminton and tennis lessons. The club is very grateful to tutors Charlene Hussey, David Brady and Ronan Flanagan for sharing their knowledge and skills. All their sessions were thoroughly enjoyed.

The club moved to Roscommon Golf Club later in the season, and under the guidance of PGA golf professional David Byrnes, members learnt all about the skills required to make a good golfer. Members had a wonderful time with David and the club volunteers, and are really looking forward to the golf scramble out on the course in a few weeks’ time. Members also really enjoyed all the delicious refreshments there, which were specially prepared by Michael and his staff.

Whilst all of the above was going on, the club was also taking part in swimming qualifiers for the national games under the guidance of the club’s number one swimming coach, Maire Keane.

The success of club comes down to its wonderful athletes, and equally wonderful club

volunteers, who guide and encourage members at all sessions. Also, the brilliant parents, family members, and carers who bring the athletes to the various sessions.

Of course, the club couldn’t operate without finance and would like to express their sincere gratitude to Roscommon Sports Partnership, Roscommon Golf Club, and Roscommon Community Sports Park for investing in them. Earlier this year, the club also received a very generous donation from Rachel Hastings, the current Roscommon Rose, who presented the club with a very kind donation using the proceeds from her Easter Camp. The club wish to sincerely thank Rachel and her family for the generosity.

Now it’s time to roll on to one of the most favourite events on the club calendar over the last few years: The Big Rematch 2025! Will Roscommon Special Olympics attain their drive for five, or will the Roscommon Town Garda Selection spring a surprise and pull off a shock win? Time will tell!

So put the date Friday, September 5th, at 7.30 pm into your diary and come out to what is the most exciting and fun sporting event of the year in Roscommon! The club’s athletes and the members of Roscommon Garda Station put huge effort into this event, so all supporters are encouraged to join in on the night.

The club is very proud to be playing for the Maire Allen Memorial Cup, a friend of the club who is fondly remembered and missed very much – she would be so proud of all the athletes.

May the best team win, and remember, the Drive for Five is Alive!

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

A turnover for the better

Our columnist Frank Brandon on the Irish women’s rugby team going from strength to strength, a mistaken celebrity encounter in Claremorris, taking part in the recent golf classic at Roscommon Golf Club – and much more!

For a long time (way too long), women in sport were nearly looked on as second-class citizens – but thankfully in recent years the exploits of some of our top Irish sportswomen have lifted them into the rarefied category of superstars. Katie and Rachael and Leona, among others, have become international and global celebrities.

However, despite a huge improvement in team sports like Gaelic football and camogie, the women’s rugby team actually went backwards, and after making the semifinals of the World Cup in 2014 they failed to qualify at all for the last one in 2022. And so the whole thing was in a complete mess – so much so that more than sixty players

sent a letter to the Irish Government in 2021 highlighting numerous deficiencies in the system and stating they had lost all trust and confidence in the IRFU’s (Irish Rugby Football Union) leadership of the women’s game.

Fast-forward four years and the difference is extraordinary – things have dramatically improved all around, but none more so than on the pitch. This Irish team, which last weekend beat Japan convincingly, is playing really good, attractive, attacking rugby. Some of the play was right out of the top drawer, with solid tackling, hard running, accurate passing and good timing being a feature of the performance, and while the fully professional juggernaut that is the English team may prove unstoppable, this Irish team, with a very strong West of Ireland connection, is more than capable of performing very well.

After the shambles of very recent times, fair play to the players and coaches – particularly head coach Scott Bemand – for turning it around so quickly and giving us a young and hugely improved team. Who knows how far they will go – they sure look like a side that could cause a shock or two!

15 minutes of fame in Claremorris

Fast-forward to Sunday afternoon, when we had decided to have a family lunch in the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris – a venue that is pretty central to us all.

Sadly my son Mark couldn’t make it, as he was being interviewed by John Mulligan of Galway Bay FM about his new venture, Sporting Club Ireland (‘The Sporting Club’). However, three of my children, two of their partners, two of my grandchildren, and I all made it to the lunch and it was a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining couple of hours.

The place was quite busy, the food was lovely, and we all agreed that it is something we should do more often. We will try to meet up at least once a month.

My day was made when I got talking to an elderly couple who were at the table beside us, and they thought I was a famous movie star! I never got to find out exactly who they thought I was, but I imagine it would be George Clooney or maybe Brad Pitt! They were a bit disappointed that I was who I was (and so was I), but for a fleeting moment I got to feel like a famous person. I suppose it’s too late now…!

Long walks and short putts

It is exactly 11 am on Monday morning as I sit down at my kitchen table to put this piece together, and I am reflecting on the beautiful weather we have had for most of the summer, and on the fabulous warm breeze I encountered this morning on my (almost) daily walk.

The wind was quite strong, so strong that when I got home the clothes I hung out early today were bone dry – but because of the heat that was in the breeze you could be forgiven for thinking you were in Spain or France or some other warm Mediterranean country.

By now I had done five laps of the rugby club complex accompanied by my brother Kieran, and after that I took Carol’s pride and joy, her little Jack Russell Hopey, for her stroll up Lenamarla. After all of that, my very unreliable iPhone 8 tells me I have walked for seven kilometres.

It’s funny how animals can be very like humans in their ways of going on, and just like me after a late night –or maybe when I’m just a little bit off and not feeling too well – Hopey was extremely reluctant to go walking at all this morning, and spent nearly all the time trying to turn back. I kept her going for the guts of a half hour, but eventually I gave in and brought her home. As I am writing this now, I can hear her snoring her head off in the sitting room, so maybe while I was asleep last night she might have been out on the town!

Talking of out on the town – I didn’t get to Athleague over the weekend, but my sources (I sound like a real journalist, or maybe a detective now) tell me that the place was packed for all the music acts and the various activities, and that by all accounts the festival was a huge success!

As you probably know by now, I

like to go out on a Friday night, but last Friday I had myself an early one as I wanted to be fit and well for my appearance on Duff’s (my brother) team for the Creggs RFC Golf Classic in Roscommon Golf Club. Duff, James Gavin, Richard Smyth, and I were due to tee off at 9 am, and I wanted to get there in good time to make sure I was ready to play my part in our expected challenge for the title.

Sadly the wet morning went against us, as we are a renowned fine weather team, and despite Duff’s words of encouragement, we, for the umpteenth year in a row, didn’t need to go back to the clubhouse for the presentation.

However we did make it to the clubhouse after our round for the grub, and I have to say the lunch was delicious – three of our team had the bacon and cabbage, while our late replacement Richard had a scrumptious chicken curry and chips. During the lunch, we wondered if a change of captain for the future might help, but despite our lack of success

And finally…

for several years now we decided that for his enthusiasm and commitment to detail, we will stick with Duff. God willing, we will be back again next year… I don’t mind how we play but please have the bacon and cabbage on again!

As an aside, in our own internal competition, the duo of Duff and Richard pipped myself and Jimmy, with Duff winning the game on the very last hole. His winning seven was a great score under enormous pressure and there were no complaints from Jimmy and myself. I was unfortunate that I needed a barrow and spade to get out of the bunker, or things could have been very different.

Anyway, by all accounts the whole thing was a great success, with over 40 teams taking part and the Luke Daly memorial trophy being won by a team of Eddie Keane, Seamus Fallon, Andrew Prior and Jackie Dempsey. Deputy Martin Daly, brother of the late Luke, presented the winning team with the trophy. Well done to them, but beware – we will be back!

As we welcome our new parish priest Fr Pravin Dhason to the parish, spare a thought for the people of Kiruna in Sweden, where their church, weighing nearly seven hundred tons, had to be moved five kilometres across the city.

Despite narrow roads, the entire church was moved in two days on giant trailers. A very large ore mine, which is continuously expanding, was the cause of the move, as it was feared it would have literally swallowed the whole structure. In fact, nearly all the town is being relocated to allow the mine to expand, and to alleviate fears of massive structural damage due to the unstable condition of the land above the huge mine. The church has safely arrived at its new home, but it will not reopen to the public until 2026.

Thankfully Fr Pravin need have no such fears as St Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet is solidly built on top of a hill and is definitely going nowhere. We wish him well amongst us – hopefully he will be here for a long spell! ‘Til next week, bye for now

A performer entertains spectators with a hula hoop at the Roscommon Pride Parade on Saturday. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured in Lisnamult last Sunday for the Kepak Roscommon SHC double bill –supporting Roscommon Gaels – were Taylor Kelly, Amy Fitzmaurice, Andrea Fallon and Erin and Ollie McDermott. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

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Green card candidate: questions arise as Sheridan seeks Áras

In politics, as in life, admissions of past opportunism tend to fall into two categories: those made with humility, and those made with the casual ease of someone who sees no reason to regret what he’s just said. Gareth Sheridan’s recent confession – that he married early to obtain a US Green Card – falls squarely into the latter.

Shortly after launching his campaign to become Ireland’s youngest-ever President, the Dublin-born millionaire told journalists that his initial wedding in the US was “more of a means to stay together – more I would get my Green Card, essentially.” Pressed on whether that was the sole reason, he replied simply: “Yeah, exactly.”

Let’s be clear: there’s no law against marrying young. But to present marriage so bluntly as a vehicle for legal convenience –particularly when speaking as a would-be head of State – is jarring. It wasn’t framed as a loving decision, expedited due to life circumstances or immigration systems, but as a calculated step to secure residency.

That may be the business world’s way of doing things. But the presidency is not a business.

Sheridan says he will retain his American citizenship if elected, making him the first dual citizen to serve as President since Éamon de Valera. Of course, de Valera came to the role after decades of public service, revolution, imprisonment and nationbuilding. Sheridan, by contrast, is arriving with a pharmaceutical fortune, a PR campaign, and what appears to be a growing desire for recognition – not representation.

That is the crux of the problem. He speaks with passion about “energy,” “encouraging younger generations,” and “bringing people along,” but has yet to offer any serious rationale for why he wants this role, beyond the symbolic potential of youth and profile. There is, so far, no record of public service, no long-standing civic engagement, no track record in advocacy or governance. There is just Gareth.

It begs the question: is this a presidential bid or a personal branding exercise?

Because “youngest-ever presidential candidate” is an excellent line on a CV – particularly for someone with business inter-

SUMMER SATIRE

ests, international ambitions, or long-term plans to move in elite circles at home and abroad. Whether or not the campaign succeeds, the title sticks. The global exposure does too.

That kind of leverage might explain the timing. After all, Sheridan has already found significant commercial success through Nutriband, the US-based pharmaceutical firm he founded, sold, and later reacquired. In 2018, both he and a business partner were fined $25,000 each by the US Securities and Exchange Commission for providing misleading information about their products’ regulatory status. The SEC found that Nutriband issued filings which wrongly suggested certain products were categorised as dietary supplements, rather than medical devices requiring FDA approval. They settled the matter without admitting or denying the findings.

This isn’t an attempt to litigate a past business decision. But when someone seeks high office – particularly one where personal integrity and symbolic leadership are paramount – the record matters. Decisions, partnerships, and public statements are fair game.

Asked whether he properly vetted his business partners at the time, Sheridan replied: “Well, I don’t know.” That may be an honest answer. It is not a reassuring one.

The role of President demands a certain seriousness of character – not in the stuffy or sanctimonious sense, but in the sense of knowing that one’s actions, words and decisions carry weight. That includes how one speaks about marriage, how one treats the public trust, and how one responds to legitimate questions about judgment.

To put it plainly: there is, to date, no evidence that Gareth Sheridan is seeking this office out of a deep commitment to the State

or to its people. That does not make him sinister. But it does make him unconvincing. If there is a noble call to public service behind this campaign, it has not yet been articulated.

He has admitted he has no answers to the housing crisis – the very issue he claims is central to his campaign. He has offered no clear vision for the office beyond “encouragement” and engagement. He has no political experience and no public service background. And yet he seeks the highest constitutional role in the land.

Why?

That question remains unanswered. And in a year when the very legitimacy of the presidency is already being tested by celebrity candidates and populist threats, it’s not an idle one. When the presidency is already being warped by celebrity pretenders and internet campaigns, with Conor McGregor – fresh from talking about bypassing the Constitution – casting his shadow across the race.

In that context, Sheridan’s candidacy feels less like a breath of fresh air and more like a continuation of the slow Americanisation of Irish political theatre. No grounding in politics, no service in the public interest — just a high-profile man seeking a higher-profile platform.

If Ireland is to maintain the dignity and integrity of its head of State, we must ask those who seek it to explain, clearly and credibly, why they are doing so.

Sheridan may be a skilled entrepreneur. He may even be sincere. But a Green Card marriage, a vague campaign, and an ambiguous vision do not add up to a compelling candidacy. Not yet. And possibly, not ever. But hey, that’s just my honestly held opinion. I could be wrong. And this might be what the people want to see in their President.

Kenny’s of Ballygar to mark 175 years at the heart of community life

One of the country’s longestrunning family pubs, Kenny’s of Ballygar, will mark a significant milestone this September with a Trad Fest weekend to celebrate 175 years of continuous business.

Founded in 1850 by the Kenny family, but with a lineage of hospitality dating back to 1825 under the Feeneys, the iconic pub has been a fixture in the town’s cultural and social life for nearly two centuries.

Now under the stewardship of Maria Kelly, the bar remains in family ownership, with her parents, Mary and Declan Kelly, continuing to play a central role.

Maria’s uncle, Tom Kenny – who ran the pub for more than 40 years – remains closely involved, offering mentorship and passing on decades of experience as part of the pub’s living tradition.

The celebration weekend, taking place from September 5th to 7th, will feature traditional Irish music, storytelling, and what Maria describes as “a living piece of history” in full voice.

“This is more than just a pub,” she said. “Generations of families, friends, musicians, and sporting heroes have walked through our doors. We’re honoured to celebrate 175 years, and what better way than with music and community.”

Located just west of the Roscommon border in the wellknown East Galway town, Kenny’s has long drawn custom from across the region and has held a special place in the local imagination. Its

unique cultural footprint extends far beyond the bar counter.

In the 1990s, the pub became an unlikely haunt for international stars such as English guitarist Eric Clapton and world billiards champion Ray Edmonds, who were drawn to the area while fishing the River Suck. Previous decades saw visits from American boxer Floyd Patterson (1974), Irish revolutionary and Fianna Fáil politician Éamon de Valera (1927), and, most recently, businessman JP McManus (2024).

Kenny’s has also played host to sporting history: the Sam Maguire Cup arrived in the 1960s with Mattie McDonagh, followed by the Liam MacCarthy Cup in 1980 with Sean Silke.

In 1985, coming off the back of a win by his horse ‘Forgive n’

Forget’ – Ballygar native Tim Kilroe returned triumphant from Cheltenham with the Gold Cup.

And in the ‘90s, Fulham FC based their pre-season training camp out of the bar.

Despite the weight of legacy, the

family-run establishment, now in its fifth generation, continues to evolve while holding fast to its heritage. Maria said the festival is as much about looking forward as back: “We’re inviting musicians from near and far to join us – it’ll be a celebration of culture, music, and the people who’ve made this place what it is.”

The Kenny’s 175th Trad Fest runs from Thursday, September 5th, to Saturday, September 7th. Everyone is welcome to join in the truly landmark celebration.

Proprietor Maria Kelly pictured behind the counter on Tuesday of this week. Photo: Michael Finan
Kenny’s Bar in Ballygar… celebrating its 175th anniversary. Photo: Michael Finan

Coffee morning for Parkinson’s Ireland

Kenny’s Bar in Ballygar will mark 175 years in business this September with a special weekend of music, community and celebration.

Festivities begin on Friday, September 5th with a ‘Lights Out –Let’s go back to 1850’ night, when the modern trappings of WiFi, television, lights and jukebox will be set aside. Instead, music and conversation will fill the bar – much as they would have done in the mid19th century.

On Saturday morning, September 6th, a coffee morning will be held in aid of Parkinson’s Ireland (Galway branch). The event, which runs from 10 am to 1 pm, is in support of a cause close to the Kenny and Kelly families, as Mary Kelly (née Kenny) lives with the condition. All proceeds will go directly to the charity. The Trad Fest will continue across the weekend. On Saturday evening, from 7 pm, locals and visitors alike are invited to join family,

friends and musicians in raising a glass to 175 years of Kenny’s. All musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and take part in an evening of traditional music and craic.

The celebrations will draw to a close on Sunday evening, September 7th, with a Buíochas Session featuring Aoibhinn and Shaun. A raffle in aid of Parkinson’s Ireland (Galway branch) will also run throughout the weekend.

Photograph outside Kenny’s in 1950 includes Nonie Kenny, Tommy Kenny and Kitt Kelly (Nora’s sister).
The warm and inviting interior of landmark public house, Kenny’s of Ballygar. Photo: Michael Finan

Kenny’s Pub, Ballygar celebrates 175th anniversary

A pub with a

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Kenny’s of Ballygar has been a landmark in east Galway for generations – a place where market town commerce met Irish social life, and where the past still lingers behind the bar counter.

Owned by the same family since the mid19th century, Kenny’s has operated as a hostelry for longer than the state itself has existed. A rare feat in a country whose pubs are closing at an alarming rate.

The story of Ballygar itself dates back further. It was in the early 1800s that the village began to evolve into a key market town in the region. In 1820, a toll market was established by Denis Henry Kelly near the main entrance to Castle Kelly.

Kelly, who owned more than 13,000 acres of surrounding land, oversaw a period of economic growth in the area. By 1840, Ballygar’s market was second only to Athlone’s in terms of trade volume. The census of 1841 recorded a population of 5,300 living on the estate. As the market swelled, so too did the demand for housing and shops – many of which were built by Kelly and leased to tenants.

Among those drawn to the growing town was the Kenny family, who arrived around 1850. They would go on to shape and sustain one of Ballygar’s best-known public houses.

In 2009, this paper reported that Kenny’s of Ballygar was to feature in a radio documentary about the place of pubs in Irish life. The programme, Have You No Homes

to Go To?, was broadcast on Newstalk 106108 FM and profiled pubs across the country that had become part of their communities’ DNA.

Speaking to the Roscommon People at the time, Tom Kenny shared memories of the bar and its evolution through the decades.

“My great-grandfather came here in 1850. There were 16 pubs in Ballygar at one stage. Now I think there’s only seven. All the pubs were general stores – they weren’t just pubs. You went in and did your shopping, bought your bacon and your flour, your beef dripping, your groceries. Here, the butcher’s shop was actually part of the bar. I remember seeing the lambs hanging here, up in the front part, and fellas drinking at the bar.”

Photographed outside of Kenny’s Bar, Ballygar are Nonie Kenny and her uncle Michael Kelly with Tommy Kenny and son Tom in 1952.
Photographed in 1970 are Tom Kenny, Billy Kelly (Boston) and Nonie Kenny pulling pints in Kenny’s Bar.

Tom recalled carnival times in the town, when Kenny’s held a special licence that allowed them to slaughter a cow at the butcher’s block near the front counter. The community would descend, and to this day does, on the premises during festivals and the famous Ballygar Carnival.

In the 2009 interview, Tom also recalled the traditional skill of bottling stout – a weekly chore during his schooldays. “My job always when I was going to primary school was to bottle a firkin of stout every week. A firkin was a small barrel, 64 pints, 128 bottles. I can still count every one of them half-pint bottles.

steeped in water to make them soft. There was a machine for fitting the bottles and then you had to bring the Guinness into the house – usually the kitchen – and they were stacked there for 10 days.

Sometimes you’d hear the cork flying off one of the bottles – then it was ready, it was mature.”

During the War of Independence, the upstairs room above the bar became a covert meeting place for IRA volunteers. On one occasion, Tom said, three lorry-loads of Black and Tans pulled up outside and took over the bar.

“The fellas thought someone had spilt the beans, and they got ready for a shootout. It

that sometimes the officer in charge ensured all officers paid for their drinks, and sometimes they didn’t – they simply commandeered the place, as they were known to do across the country during those brutal years.

After the conflict ended and the Irish Free State took shape, the Kenny family pub saw another significant visitor. During the 1927 general election campaign, Eamon de Valera visited Ballygar – and according to Maria Kelly, he called into the pub while in town. De Valera would go on to serve as both Taoiseach and President of Ireland.

Photographed behind the bar in Kenny’s in 1975 are Tom and Nonie Kenny.
A young Tommy Kenny photographed bottling out the back of the Kenny’s Bar in 1927.
Pictured at Kenny’s Bar on Tuesday of this week were Mary Kelly (nee Kenny), Declan Kelly, Maria Kelly and Tom Kenny. Photo: Michael Finan

Congratulations to Kenny’s celebrating a record 175 years in business.

Wishing our wonderful neighbours and friends for 113 years the very best for the future from all the Moran’s. August

From Eric Clapton to billiards ace Edmonds, angling reeled celebrities to Ballygar!

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Speaking to the Roscommon People week, Tom Kenny fondly remembered his mother’s time running Kenny’s Pub and its associated bed & breakfast nearly half a century ago.

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“Coarse fishing was a massive draw in the ‘80s and ‘90s. They came from all over the world to fish the Suck, in Ballyforan and Hollygrove Lake. I remember my mother would host English fishermen and French fishermen here – but they came from everywhere.”

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Among those drawn to Ballygar’s waters was Ray Edmonds, the world billiards champion, who visited annually during the 1990s. On one occasion, Tom recalled, Edmonds took part in a friendly tournament with the local snooker club, which later made a presentation to him. The atmosphere that night must have been electric for the local snooker and pool enthusiasts.

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Widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music, Clapton was ranked second in Rolling Stone’s list of the ‘100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time’.

Maria Kelly recalled that while Clapton did not stay at her grandmother’s bed & breakfast, he would nonetheless call in each year with a gift. “He used to bring her a bottle of whiskey and call in,” she said.

Between the visiting anglers, the occasional celebrity, and the steady trade of locals, Kenny’s of Ballygar became a hub where world fame and small-town hospitality met. The fishing may have been the lure, but it was the welcome that made the place memorable. One such memorable occasion was when American Boxing legend Floyd Patterson called in

to the bar with “another man” in 1974. Patterson was an American professional boxer who competed from 1952 to 1972, and twice reigned as the world heavyweight champion between 1956 and 1962. At the age of 21, he became the youngest boxer in history to win the title and was also the first heavyweight to regain the title after losing it. Next door to Kenny’s Bar lived a well-known shoemaker and boxing enthusiast, Paddy Kenny (no relation). Realising the magnitude of the visitor to his neighbour, Tom sent for Paddy to call in, and Floyd bought him a pint of Guinness on that occasion. Yet another example of the rich history that Kenny’s enjoys and another testament to the importance of the public house to Irish social life and community.

A photograph of Tom Kenny outside Kenny’s Bar holding a 34lb fish in 1995.
Photographed are Declan and Mary Kelly with Mary’s brother Tom on the reopening of the pub after Covid in 2021.
But Edmonds was not the only renowned figure to spend time in Ballygar during those great angling years. Eric
Clapton – the worldfamous English rock and blues guitarist, singer and songwriter – also visited the town regularly.
Sporting memorabilia displayed on a wall in Kenny’s Pub. Photo: Michael Finan

St Coman’s Church 250th anniversary celebrations

2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the building of St Coman’s Church as we know it today. St Coman’s is situated on the original site of the abbey, named for St Coman in 742.

The 2025 National Heritage Week theme, Exploring Our Foundations, was a wonderful way to celebrate this important milestone. The church was opened to visitors each afternoon for several days and was well attended. Wednesday evening marked the launch of ‘Aspects of the History of St Coman’s Church’, written by local historian Albert Siggins. Roscommon One Town One Voice Community Choir began the evening with selection of uplifting music. This was followed by Albert Siggins’ presentation about his new book, covering the history of St Coman’s from 742 to the present day. Attendees were greatly impressed by the breadth of knowledge that Albert has on the subject. Church musician Lesley Denniston played a medley of sacred music on the early 19th century Telford organ.

The book was then launched by Andrew Clarke, a former parishioner who originally hails from Fuerty – as does the author. Andrew thanked Albert for his scholarship and dedication to recording history in County Roscommon that might otherwise be lost. The evening was capably moderated by The Very Reverend Gerald Field. It was a wonderful opportunity to launch this important history during Heritage Week, when the church was open to visitors with a well-curated exhibit of documents and pictures. Special thanks to Susan Compton for her assistance in making this event happen.

On Sunday, the closing event at St Coman’s Church was a presentation by Andrew Clarke about the Cross of Cong and its close association with Roscommon town, as well as its patron the High King Turlough O’Connor. More events marking the anniversary are planned.

Albert Siggins and Andrew Clarke, who both gave talks at St Coman’s Church over the course of Heritage Week, pictured on Sunday at St Coman’s Church.
Attendees pictured at St Coman’s Church for National Heritage Week 2025.
Pictured taking part in last Saturday’s Roscommon Pride March. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
A popular member of Castlerea Brass & Reed Band, which took part in last Saturday’s Roscommon Pride March. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Parade favourite Gerry Jago pictured greeting the crowd at Saturday’s Roscommon Pride Parade. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured taking part in last Saturday’s Roscommon Pride March. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
South Roscommon Family Resource Centre representatives pictured taking part in last Saturday’s Roscommon Pride March. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Roscommon Pride March on Saturday were Lorraine Doyle and Nora Doyle, Charlene McGlynn, Eileen McLoughlin, Amy McGlynn, Emma Doyle and Paddy Gilmartin. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Pictured at the Roscommon Pride March on Saturday were Ruadhán O’Gráda, Julia Ni Gráda and Seanán O’Gráda. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Renowned pub celebrates 25th

Celebrations take place on Saturday, September 6th

< EMMETT CORCORAN

A much-loved Roscommon public house will mark a special milestone next weekend as John’s of Doughill celebrates 25 years of stewardship under local man John Leckey.

Located in the townland of Doughill, near Curraghroe, the historic pub first opened its doors in 1890. But while it has long served as a focal point for gatherings and celebrations, Saturday, September 6th will mark another key chapter in its story – the anniversary of the night John Leckey came to own the bar (September 1st, 2000) that would become both his family’s pride and a pillar of community life.

To mark the occasion, the Leckey family will host a night of traditional celebration, with music provided by local talent and food laid on for all in attendance. As with so many nights at the venue, the emphasis will be on warmth, welcome and a healthy helping of ‘good craic’ – the currency of any proper Irish pub.

John’s pride in family

For John Leckey, running John’s of Doughill is very much a family affair. “It’s just myself and the family,” he said, noting that his children and grandchildren pitch in behind the bar when needed.

One video shared on the pub’s Facebook page shows his

granddaughter, Holly, pouring a pint of Guinness with confidence and ease. The post was captioned ‘Holly’s of Doughill’ – a gentle nod to what may be a future generation of stewardship.

Indeed, John’s pride in his family is unmistakable. A father to eight

children – five sons and three daughters – he is now grandfather to 16 and great-grandfather to one. “Baby John Joe,” he told the Roscommon People, “he’s the fourth John,” adding that the name runs strong through the line.

That generational continuity

echoes the longer history of the pub itself. Since 1890, every license holder has had the initial J in their name – among them Johnny Farrell, Jim Farrell, Jim Walsh, John Shiels, and now John Leckey. It’s a curious tradition, but one that John notes with affection.

Publican John Leckey pictured in his renowned bar on Tuesday of this week. Photo: Michael Finan
John’s of Doughill… the famous pub will be celebrating its 25th anniversary under the proprietorship of John Leckey with a gala event on September 6th. Photo: Michael Finan

John’s of Doughill celebrates 25th anniversary

‘John’s of Doughill’ anniversary

Yet the story of how John came to own the bar is one that might well have ended differently. Speaking to the Roscommon People, John recalled the events of that fateful evening in 2000 with his trademark humour and clarity.

“I went to Longford with ‘Eoiny’ Farrell and Martin Parker,” he said, explaining that the purpose of the trip was to buy a tractor. “There was 20 pounds between what I was willing to give and what the farmer was willing to let it go at. And neither of us were budging.”

No deal was struck for the Massey Ferguson. But the evening was far from over. “Between the jigs and the reels, we ended up in Doughill and I struck the deal to purchase the pub for 200 thousand pounds – who knows, if I had bought the tractor I might never have bought the pub.”

And so began a chapter that would see the bar not only maintained, but transformed into one of the rare rural pubs that continues to serve as a true beating heart of its community.

Over the past quarter-century, John’s of Doughill has become synonymous with gatherings of all kinds – from birthdays and bonfire nights to family reunions, wakes, and holidays such as Christmas

and St Patrick’s Day. The venue plays host to the annual Bonfire Night each summer, a tradition that continues to draw people from far and wide for music, laughter and the unmistakable sense of place that only a pub like John’s can offer.

In more recent years, the pub has also become the home base for the Sliabh Bán Horse Ride – an annual charity event that has raised thousands for causes such as the Mayo-Roscommon Hospice.

The pub’s colourful past also includes a lesser-known claim to fame. During the 1960s, under the ownership of Johnny Farrell, John’s of Doughill may well have been the only pub in Roscommon to double as an informal aviation outpost. Farrell, one of the few pilots in the region at the time, flew a Tiger Moth light aircraft – a feat of personal passion and local legend. According to John, the same aircraft now resides in Buffalo, New York. It was recently visited by retired school teacher and pilot, Pat Gibbons of Curraghroe, who made the journey across the Atlantic to see it in its modern-day home.

The enduring strength of the bar lies not only in its stories and its history, but in its ability to adapt and remain relevant. In an era that has seen the decline of many

rural pubs, John’s of Doughill continues to thrive, anchored in the values of community, welcome and familial pride.

The celebration on Saturday, September 7th will be more than just an anniversary party. It will be a tribute to tradition, resilience and the kind of quiet, enduring leadership that keeps a place alive across generations.

And if things had gone a little differently that night in Longford, the story might never have begun. But as John himself might say – between the jigs and the reels – it all worked out rightly in the end.

The warm and inviting interior of the renowned John’s of Doughill. Above: Pool is very popular in the premises. Photos: Michael Finan

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Ciara Lawless return with new single ‘Je Suis’

Fresh from an 8/10 Hot Press review for her latest album Divine Intervention, local artist Ciara Lawless returns with Je Suis, a bold new standalone single releasing on September 5th.

Running at two and a half minutes, Je Suis is a shimmering pop anthem celebrating individuality and self-belief. Over a pulse of pop hooks, Ciara sings, “Je suis whatever I want to be”, delivering a track that’s both liberating and impossible to resist.

“This song is about stepping fully into yourself without apology, not waiting for permission, not shrinking to fit”, Ciara says.

The single follows the release of Divine Intervention in May, an album praised for blending uplifting, empowering songwriting with ’80s-inspired soundscapes. This summer saw Ciara sing to festival audiences across Ireland, the UK, France and Portugal, with Je Suis now marking the way for her upcoming headline show in The Soundhouse in Dublin on September 26th.

ARLENE to perform at Electric Picnic Knockcroghery’s Philip Dolan to accept award at Kansas Festival

From headlining venues like Dublin’s Whelan’s, to appearing on Virgin Media’s television show ‘The Secret Headliner’ alongside Cian Ducrot, and even featuring in Guinness’ nationwide social media campaign, ARLENE (Arlene Feeley) of Kenny’s Bar and Lounge in Ballintubber has been steadily making her mark on the Irish music scene. Now, the Ballintubber native has earned her biggest stage yet — performing at Ireland’s most iconic festival, Electric Picnic.

At just 26, ARLENE has already built an impressive track record. Her latest single ‘racing minds’ was recently named ‘Track of the Week’ by SPIN SW presenter Katie Sheehan, further cementing her as one to watch. Her breakout single ‘Send Me Any Sign’ gained both national and

international recognition, earning her a place in ‘BBC Radio Introducing’s’ ‘Top 5 Artists of the Week’. The follow-up, ‘Somebody else’, propelled her momentum further, securing ‘Artist of the Month’ titles across Irish stations including Cork’s 96FM, Q102, LMFM, and Limerick’s Live 95. After taking time to refine her craft, ARLENE returned in 2024 with ‘Longshot’ – a bold new release that has already received strong radio support in both the UK and Canada.

Fans can catch ARLENE live at Electric Picnic on the ‘Artlot Stage’ on Sunday, August 31st, at 3 pm.

Listen to ARLENE’s latest single ‘racing minds’ now on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and YouTube, and follow her on social media, including Instagram and TikTok (@arlene__music).

Tulsk History Society unveil famine memorials

For Heritage Week 2025, Tulsk History Society unveiled two memorials in the parish to remember those locals who suffered, emigrated, and died during the Great Irish Famine of 1845-49.

A new book was also launched by the society on the day, which documents an array of letters sent from Tulsk parish to Dublin Castle for famine relief during that time. Joining the society for the event were their four local county councillors – Sean Moylan, Ruth Conboy, Nigel Dineen and Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Liam Callaghan. All played a part in the unveilings and launching of the book.

Fr Liam Devine blessed both memorials – at Tulsk and Baslick cemeteries – making the event one to remember.

The Kansas City Irish Fest, set for August 29-31 at Crown Center, will launch its first Excellence in Film Award, celebrating Irish cinema with a special nod to Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon, native Philip Dolan. The award will be presented to the film ‘That They May Face the Rising Sun’, directed by Pat Collins, during the Labor Day weekend festival.

Irish Fest President Matt Scanlon will present the award to Dolan, who stars in the film, at 3 pm on August 30th in Crown Center’s Ruby Room Theater, followed by a screening. A Culture Ireland grant made Dolan’s attendance possible.

The movie’s director, Pat Collins, was gratified with the award.

“It’s a great honour that our film is receiving this award, and I’m delighted that Philip Dolan is there in person to receive it,” Collins said. “It’s important too that any attention that is shone on our film means that more people get to see it, which is very important to everyone involved.”

Based on John McGahern’s novel,

‘That They May Face the Rising Sun’ captures rural Irish life. The festival will also screen the Irish comedy Rosie & Frank at 3 pm on August 31st in the Ruby Room Theater. Both screenings are free with a festival ticket. For more details, visit Irish Cinema and Kansas City Irish Fest.

Members of Tulsk History Society and public representatives Sean Moylan and Liam Callaghan pictured at the Society’s Famine memorial unveiling at Tulsk Cemetery last weekend.

Minister attends Camp Ability 2025 in Creggs

Hildegarde Naughton, the Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, with responsibility for disability, visited Creggs RFC recently on the occasion of the club hosting a Camp Ability 2025 event there. It was a wonderful occasion. Here are some photos from the event, courtesy of

Alec Silke

Creggs native introduces ‘The Sporting Club’ to Irish audiences

The Sporting Club will host networking lunches and dinners where you can meet your sporting heroes

Creggs native Mark Brandon is the main driving force behind a new concept here in Ireland called ‘The Sporting Club’

– an exciting initiative which affords an opportunity for business people, clubs, sports fans and the wider public to meet sports celebrities and indeed to enjoy a lunch or evening meal in their company.

The primary idea is to promote networking amongst business people and others in a relaxed setting with a sporting theme.

The first such major event will be on Wednesday, September 10th in the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin with special guest, rugby legend Johnny Sexton. Mark Brandon spoke to the Roscommon People earlier this week.

“The Sporting Club is essentially a business members club that brings people together through the power of sport. We all know how much Irish people love sport. This also involves high-level networking at top class events involving the likes of Johnny Sexton and other major sportstars like Padraig Harrington, etc. I think this kind of thing has been missing in Ireland for a number of years.”

So what audience is the concept aimed at? “Well it’s aimed at everyone, to be honest. If you are an individual that wants to promote yourself or your business, the corporates, or indeed anyone who enjoys a good day out and would like to socialise with those sportstars that you would only normally see on television…

“That’s why I got into this myself. I was working in recruitment and attended events like these for about 12 months and I got so much out of it in terms of networking that I decided to bring it to Ireland. There is nothing quite like it

here so we are going to give it a go. I have to say the feedback has been very positive so far.

“Our first main event is in Dublin but we have plans to hold events in Galway, Athlone, Limerick, Cork and Belfast.”

That first major event – ‘Dinner with Johnny Sexton’ –takes place at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin on Wednesday, September 10th.

“We had Ronan O’Gara lined up for that but he is tied up with La Rochelle. But thankfully we have got Johnny Sexton (as a replacement) which is just as good! Ronan will do an event in Cork for us next year.

“We are lucky to have got Johnny Sexton. He normally doesn’t do these events but Bernard Jackman (former rugby international, now a pundit and

leadership speaker) was a great help to us getting Johnny to agree to do it.”

The event will begin with a drinks reception from 6 pm to 7 pm, attended by Johnny Sexton. Individual photos with the rugby legend will be arranged. At 7 pm there is a three-course dinner with wine. Cameo interviews with special guests follows. Keynote conversation with Johnny Sexton will be followed by after-party from 10 pm. Other guests on the night will inclue ex-Wales international Mike Phillips and Bernard Jackman.

Admission for Sporting Club members (for meet and greet, drinks and photos, lunch and after-party) is €125, while for non-members it’s €175. For details on how to join The Sporting Club and all other relevant information, see www.

thesportingclub.ie. There are a lot of benefits in being a member and those are also detailed on the website.

Mark Brandon: “In my experience, being a member of such a club carries many benefits. I was in HR and this opened many doors for me that I would never have access to otherwise. The fact that I love sport too is an added bonus and to meet all these great stars is even better.”

Mark, son of Frank and the late Carol Brandon, still lines out for Creggs GAA Club when he can and of course he is very proud of the fantastic developments at Creggs Rugby Club.

“I lined out in the first couple of rounds of the Intermediate Football Championship this year but at 44 (years of age) I am not sure I’ll be lin-

ing out this weekend against Tulsk!

“With regard to the rugby club, it’s not so long ago that we had half a pitch that was covered in mud… with a couple of lights. Now I can go into the gym at 6 am in the morning and I am in awe of the place. I can look out at the 4G pitch, the walkways and everything else. It is an unbelievable facility to have in such a small village.”

Finally, The Sporting Club will shortly be announcing further events and dates, as Mark confirmed.

“Our sportstars will be from a range of sports. We will shortly be announcing three of Ireland’s biggest sporting personalities for events early next year. We are just growing the business at the moment. Hopefully it will be a success!” he concluded.

New to market: 107 acres of roadside lands at Tulsk

Cathal Meares of Sheehy Meares Team

Earley are delighted to present to the market this exceptional parcel of approximately 107 acres (incorporating 15 acres of forestry) of high-quality roadside agricultural lands, located in a renowned farming area at Slevin, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co Roscommon.

Offered in one block, the lands are of good quality throughout, laid out in well-fenced paddocks and serviced by a central fenced roadway, allowing excellent access across the holding. The property is ideally suited to a variety of farming enterprises including beef, sheep or mixed use.

A key feature of the holding is a circa 15-acre forestry plantation of Sitka Spruce, planted in 2013. This plantation generates an annual premium of €2,500 approx. with seven years of payments re-

maining providing a secure and ongoing income stream. On-site infrastructure includes a two-bay hay shed with lean-tos, a cattle crush, pen and handling facilities. The lands also benefit from a reliable water supply.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial, well laid out and income-generating farm in a strong agricultural location. The property is located just a short drive from both Tulsk village and Castlerea town, offering a balance of rural setting with accessible amenities. Viewings are by appointment only.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or Cathal on 086 1409158, email info@sheehymeares.ie or log onto www. sheehymeares.ie

Johnny Sexton… Irish rugby legend will be special guest at The Sporting Club’s ‘Dinner with Johnny Sexton’ on Wednesday, September 10th
Mark and Aoife Brandon pictured with Ian Stafford (centre), founder of ‘The Sporting Club’.

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FarmingPeople

Local farmers rewarded to help protect water quality

More than a quarter of eligible farmland in west Roscommon and northeast Galway is now part of a major EU-funded programme aimed at improving water quality.

Over 100 farmers in the Islands sub-catchment, which includes areas around Ballinlough and Granlahan in Co Roscommon as well as Williamstown and Ballymoe in Co Galway, have joined the Waters of LIFE pilot in the last six months.

The project, one of five demonstration catchments nationwide, offers resultsbased payments to farmers who implement actions that protect and enhance

Each

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water quality. Farmers are rewarded for work such as fencing off rivers, leaving uncultivated buffer zones, and attending training events.

A riverside habitat scorecard has been developed under the scheme, with payments of up to €2,000 per hectare available for high-quality unfertilised or fenced margins along waterways, capped at 20m wide. Additional actions and supports are available to farmers without river frontage.

“We’ve had more than a quarter of eligible farmers sign up in a number of our catchments,” said Waters of LIFE project manager

Castlerea MART WATCH

Over 400 lots presented for sale on Thursday last (August 21st) with increased numbers of heifers and bullocks.

Bullocks made up to €3620, heifers hit €3480 while the dry cow lots made up to €3530. Cows with calves at foot made up to €4500. The weanling heifer ring witnessed lots making up to 7.44 a kilo while bulls made up to €2520. The runner ring continues to record some very fancy prices with lots making up to 7.94 a kilo.

Sample prices

Bullocks: Ch 440kg €2570, AA 470kg €2540, Lim 400kg €2490, Lim 505kg €2740, Ch 520kg €2770, Ch 580kg €3540, Lim 555kg €2800, Lim 640kg €3080, Ch 710kg €3620, Lim 660kg €3100.

Heifers: Ch 420kg €2480, AA 390kg €2310, Lim 380kg €2080, Ch 445kg €2640, Ch 475kg €2730, Lim 650kg €3170, Lim 615kg €3000, AA 750kg €3480.

Anne Goggin. “But it’s also about the level of interest in what we are trying to do… farmers just want to do their bit for nature and water quality.”

John Kelly, catchment scientist for the Islands area, said: “Lads in these parts of Galway and Roscommon are really tuned into what we’re trying to do… with the payments system up and running, we’re starting to see results.”

Farmers can express interest in Year 2 of the scheme until August 31st, 2025 at www.watersoflife.ie/eoi. Entry for new applicants will begin in 2026.

Dry cows: Her 885kg €3530, AA 800kg €3400, AA 790kg €3200, PTX 660kg €3060, Lim 665kg €3000, Ch 415kg €1740, Shx 715kg €2820.

Cows with calves at foot made from €2340 to €4500 for a 6-year-old Ch cow and her heifer calf at foot. Calves/runners: Young calves made from €590 to €780. Runners made from €580 to €1880 for continental lots.

Weanling bulls: Lim 335kg €1990, Lim 380kg €2000, Lim 385kg €2180, AA 450kg €2520.

Weanling heifers: Lim 295kg €2000, BBx 280kg €1820, Lim 230kg €1330, BBx 305kg €2270, Ch 315kg €2160, Ch 330kg €2010, Lim 395kg €2380.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart every Thursday with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Cattle: There was a good entry of stock on offer at Friday’s (August 22nd) general cattle sale and special sale of bullocks, with 38 pens on offer. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

There was a good trade for all stock.

Bullocks fetched an average of €4.85 per kilo up to €6.27 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.85 per kilo up to €4.35 per kilo.

Dry cows, sample prices: LMX - 790KG€3440 - €4.35 per kg, LMX – 785KG - €3260 - €4.15 per kg, LMX – 750KG - €3,040- €4.05 per kg, AAX - 735KG - €2860 - €3.89 per kg, LMX - 695KG - €2780 - €4.00 per kg, and SIX660KG - €2380 - €3.52 per kg.

Bullocks, sample prices: two CHX - 635KG€3800- €5.98 per kg, CHX - 1015KG - €4300 - €4.24 per kg, two CHX - 635KG - €3,800 - €5.98 per kg, two CHX - 592KG - €3440€5.81 per kg, LMX – 530KG - €2940 – €5.55 per kg, CHX - 490KG - €3980 - €6.08 per kg, and CHX - 330KG - €1980 - €6.00per kg.

Weanlings

There was a good entry of good quality weanlings on offer at the weanling sale held on Tuesday evening, August 26th, with a strong trade for both bulls and heifers. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average

of €5.68 per kilo up to €7.73 per kilo, and heifer weanlings made from an average of €5.22 per kilo up to €6.35 per kilo. The next sale will be held at 4 pm on Tuesday, September 9th.

Bull weanlings, sample prices: CH- 545KG -€3310 -€6.07 per kg, CHX-350KG-€2540-€7.26 per kg, CH-310KG-€2290-€7.39 per kg, CHX-295KG-€2280-€7.73 per kg, CH-375KG-€2240-€5.97 per kg, LMX-370KG-€2040-€5.51 per kg, LM315KG-€2000-€6.35 per kg, and LMX –350KG-€19000-€5.43 per kg.

Heifer weanlings, sample prices: LMX -475KG -€2620- €5.52 per kg, BBX -390KG€23800-€6.10 per kg, CHX-345KG- €2040€5.91 per kg, CH- 360KG- €1800- €5.00 per kg, LMX-315KG-€1600-€5.08 per kg, and BBX-295KG- €1500- €5.08 per kg.

Sheep

There was a large entry of sheep on offer at the annual show sale of lambs and stag ewes on Wednesday, August 27th. Prices for lambs made up to €304 while stag ewes topped out at €288. The next sheep sale takes place Wednesday, September 3rd. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on marteye.ie.

Classifieds

FENCING/GATES

F42 RP21 (1st

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm; Wednesday 1pm to 2pm; Thursday 8pm to 9pm; Saturday 8pm to 9pm; Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm. Ladies Meeting Friday 8pm to 9pm.

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

Chimney Cleaning • Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CAMERA INSPECTIONS

087 2798704

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

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

GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

Landscaping

Timber Decking

Patios

General Maintenance

PODIATRIST

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available

PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –

CHFP (Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p0862553153 @gmail.com

Kilteevan, Roscommon

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 089 4467372 or 090 66 33084

5th & 6th

OSCOMMON COUNTY

POSITION:

POSITION:

Accounts Assistant

COUNCIL

I, Dominic Gillooly, intend to apply for Permission for development at Cloontogher, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon.

The development consists of the construction of a loose cattle shed to

MEMBER SERVICES OFFICER

MEMBER SERVICES OFFICER

RHS Home Care est.1996 are looking for an Accounting Technician for our head office in Roscommon Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Co Roscommon.

The ideal candidate will be good at multi-tasking, work well under pressure and have experience working in an accounts department.

cattle, with

and ancillary

(ie

in

REPORTING TO: CEO CONTRACT: PERMANENT

REPORTING TO: CEO CONTRACT: PERMANENT

Reports To: Finance Manager

Purpose of the Role

Roscommon Credit Union is a community credit union with 4 offices, located in Roscommon, Elphin, Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen. Our values are to serve our members and the community with the highest professional standards and service.

Roscommon Credit Union is a community credit union with 4 offices, located in Roscommon, Elphin, Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen. Our values are to serve our members and the community with the highest professional standards and service.

• Provide essential support to the company’s financial operations.

• To work closely with the Finance Team to ensure smooth financial processes and compliance with regulations.

Requirements

The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a range of operational and administrative duties that will contribute to the effective running of the day-to-day operations of the credit union. They will be required to work primarily from our Roscommon office but work in our other branches may be necessary from time to time.

The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a range of operational and administrative duties that will contribute to the effective running of the day-to-day operations of the credit union. They will be required to work primarily from our Roscommon office but work in our other branches may be necessary from time to time.

Key Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

•To provide a quality service to members at the counter to enable them to make lodgements, withdrawals, loan issues and repayments, Foreign exchange handling

•To provide a quality service to members at the counter to enable them to make lodgements, withdrawals, loan issues and repayments, Foreign exchange handling

•Process direct debits. Standing orders, EFT’s and amend mandates

•Process direct debits. Standing orders, EFT’s and amend mandates

•Accurately and diligently handle cash, reconcile balances and account for any inconsistencies

•Accurately and diligently handle cash, reconcile balances and account for any inconsistencies

•Through training, develop excellence in dealing with member queries to the highest levels of service across diverse areas such as advising of credit union products, services & complaints etc.

•Through training, develop excellence in dealing with member queries to the highest levels of service across diverse areas such as advising of credit union products, services & complaints etc.

•Ensure compliance with existing systems & controls, and policies & procedures.

•Complete other duties as required by the CEO

•Ensure compliance with existing systems & controls, and policies & procedures.

• Experience in Accounts Receivable Essential

• Proven experience in Accounts Administration

• Relevant qualification in Office Administration

• Excellent attention to detail and admin skills

• Exceptional organisational ability

• Ability to work on own initiative but also work as part of a team

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word.

• Working knowledge of Quickbooks and Collsoft (payroll) beneficial.

• Strong communication skills.

Employment Type

• Full time permanent

• Hours of work: Office Hours: (9.00-5pm Mon-Thurs, 9.00-4.30pm Fri)

• Attractive salary

• Training, support and more

Please email your expression of interest in this role including an up to date Curriculum Vitae to Christine@rhshomecare.ie.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Eddie O’Connor & Caoilfhionn Harkin, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following:

•Complete other duties as required by the CEO

•Undertake relevant training as deemed necessary

•Undertake relevant training as deemed necessary

The following experience and/or qualification are desirable but not essential:

•QFA, APA or willing to work towards a qualification

The following experience and/or qualification are desirable but not essential:

•QFA, APA or willing to work towards a qualification

•Strong Communication skills and the ability to demonstrate ‘member service’ credentials and an ability and desire to enhance member service at every opportunity

•Strong Communication skills and the ability to demonstrate ‘member service’ credentials and an ability and desire to enhance member service at every opportunity

•Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and also as a team player

•Cash handling experience

•Good Microsoft Office skills

•Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and also as a team player

•Cash handling experience

•An appreciation and an awareness of the credit union ethos

•Good Microsoft Office skills

•Previous Credit union experience

•An appreciation and an awareness of the credit union ethos

Applications by email only to ceo@roscommoncu.ie

•Previous Credit union experience

Applications by email only to ceo@roscommoncu.ie

Closing Date for receipt of applications; Wednesday 18th September 2025 Short listing will apply and assessment will be done on the basis of the information provided in the application.

Closing Date for receipt of applications; Wednesday 18th September 2025

Closing date for receipt of applications 4th of September 2025.

RHS HOME CARE CO-OPERATIVE – the best in the west!

ROSCOMMON PRIMARY CARE CENTRE

1. To demolish the existing shed, 2. To refurbish the existing house to include removal of chimneys and alterations to elevations, 3. To construct new rear extension to the same, 4. To construct new rear domestic garage and carry out all ancillary site development works at Ballindrimely Rd, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 FP57. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Short listing will apply and assessment will be done on the basis of the information provided in the application.

101 Golf Links Road, Ballypheason, Roscommon F42 HY97 Tel. 090 66 25988 – Email: jobs@rhshomecare.ie

Roscommon Credit Union Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Roscommon Credit Union Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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

Our deadline is STRICTLY 2pm on Tuesday

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SUBMIT A REVISED NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT (NIS)

Planning Reference No.: PD/25/60258

Applicant: Inland Fisheries

Location: Lackan Townland, Portrunny, Co. Roscommon

Date of Application: 29th May 2025

Notice is hereby given, in accordance with the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), that Inland Fisheries intends to submit a Revised Natura Impact Statement (NIS) to Roscommon County Council in relation to a proposed development at Lackan Townland, Portrunny, Co. Roscommon. The proposed development comprises, (a) Construction of a single-storey building with a combination of flat and pitched roofs, to accommodate offices, meeting rooms, a canteen, sanitary and changing facilities, ancillary areas, and storage for boats and associated equipment; (b) Provision of new vehicular access, entrance walls, driveways, car parking areas, and storage yards; (c) Installation of a mechanical aeration unit with polishing filter system, rainwater harvesting system, ground-mounted solar array, site lighting, security fencing, landscaping, and all associated site works.

Following a request from the Planning Authority, a Revised Natura Impact Statement will be submitted in connection with the planning application. The Revised NIS will be available for inspection or purchase, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours at the offices of Roscommon County Council. Submissions or observations in relation to the Revised NIS may be made in writing to the Planning Authority, subject to payment of the relevant fee, within 5 weeks of the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the revised document

Signed: Kevin Kenneally, Kenneally Murphy & Associates, Architects & Engineers, Main Street, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. Tel: 068 51152

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Simon Gilbert, am applying to Roscommon County Council for the following

1. To retain, as constructed, extension to existing cottage and change of use from domestic dwelling to dwelling for shortterm holiday letting.

2. To retain 3 No. Glamping Pods and connection to existing septic tank.

3. To retain utility shed and all ancillary site works, internal roads at Bockagh Farm, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 YN80.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 090 6634365. Mob: 085 1299470. E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, KATIE O’TOOLE, intend to apply for full planning permission for development at Corraun, Termonbarry Co. Roscommon. The development consists of erection of one, two storey domestic dwelling, C/W 8PE

P.I.A Approved wastewater treatment system to EN 12566-3, entrance driveway & partial hedge removal c/w entrance piers/wall, and associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by Roscommon County Council 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.

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 090 6634365. Mob: 085 1299470.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Colette and Joseph Hanrahan, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to install new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Valeview, Lisalway, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45YA26. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

LEGAL NOTICE

THE DISTRICT COURT (AN CHUIRT DUICHE)

LICENSING ACTS, 1833 to 2011

THE LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT, 1833

SECTION 6

As Amended by Substitution in the First Schedule to the Courts (No. 2) Act, 1986

INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT, 1960 SECTION 29

THE DISTRICT COURT RULES, 1997 ORDER 79

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF LICENCE

Ailbhe Costello – Applicant

The Shannon Bar, Ballytoohey, Tarmonbarry, Roscommon – Premises

TAKE NOTICE that Ailbhe Costello of the Shannon Bar, Ballytoohey, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon being the holder of an Ordinary Seven Day Publican’s Licence intends to apply to the Annual Licensing District Court on the 24th day of September, 2025 at The Courthouse, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon for a Certificate of Transfer entitling the Applicant to receive an Ordinary Seven Day Publican’s Licence in respect of the premises known as The Shannon Bar, and situate at Ballytoohey, Tarmonbarry, Roscommon in the Court Area and District aforesaid.

Dated the 14th August 2025

Signed: J Harrington & Co Solicitors for the Applicant Bridge Street, Strokestown County Roscommon

To: The Fire Officer Roscommon County Council Roscommon

To: The Superintendent, Garda Siochana Roscommon

Case No: D:LIC:STRO:2025:008099

Courts Licence No: LIC-10857

Revenue Licence No: RNP157

An Chuirt Duiche

The District Court

Licensing (Ireland) Act 1833

Section 6

Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960

Section 29

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE

District Court Area of Strokestown – District No. 4

SEAN BRADY – Applicant

An Bothar Rua, Main Street, Elphin, County Roscommon – Premises

Case No: D:LIC:ROS:2025:008325

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 Michael Moran as Nominee Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Michael Moran as nominee of Bozdur Limited of Castle Street, Roscommon, Roscommon intends to apply to the District Court at Roscommon District Court on the 16 Sep 2025 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence at The Coachman’s Inn, Castle Street, Roscommon, situate at Castle Street, Roscommon, Roscommon in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 27 August 2025

Signed: Liddy Neilan LLP

Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, Abbey Street, Roscommon , Roscommon

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

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

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

To the District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Sean Brady of Main Street, Elphin, Roscommon, F45 Y8A0 intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Strokestown District Court on the 24-Sep-2025 at 10:30 for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (7-Day Ordinary) licence attached to the premises known as An Bothar Rua and situate at Main Street, Elphin, Roscommon in the court area and district aforesaid.

Dated 25th of August 2025

Signed: Dockery Solicitors. Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

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

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

To: The Health Service Executive Official, at roscommon.peho@hse.ie

To: The District Court Clerk, Roscommon District Court

FAMILY NOTICES

NAUGHTON Tommie (13th Anniversary)

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

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 Sunday August 31st at 10.30am in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

NAUGHTON Geraldine

Tully East, Ballygar, Co.Galway (13th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Geraldine Naughton who passed away 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 Sunday August 31st at 10.30am in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

HARTE Eileen

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

The family of the late Eileen Harte would like to express their sincere gratitude to all those who sympathised with them on their sad loss.

Thank you to those who sent Mass Cards, Perpetual Enrolments, Floral Tributes, and attended her Funeral. Sincere thanks to Fr Douglas for a lovely Funeral Mass and his support throughout. To the choir, and all who assisted in providing a fitting farewell to Eileen. To the gravediggers, our neighbours, relatives and friends who gave of their time and were a great support, thank you.

Thank you to the Funeral Director David Moran, for his help and professionalism.

As there are so many people that paid their respects, it is not possible to thank all of you individually; we hope that this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

First Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday August 31st at 10.30am in St Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

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

FAMILY NOTICES

QUIGLEY

Michael Creevy, Roscommon (20th 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.

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

FLANAGAN

Brendan Cornashinagh, Fourmilehouse (12th Anniversary)

KELLY Nellie

Feevaghmore, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (18th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 8th September 2007

No birthday card to send you, for there is no address, only a beautiful garden where you have gone to rest. A day that’s filled with sadness, returns to us today, to mark the day you closed your eyes and quietly passed away. Nothing can dim the face we loved, or the memory of your smile, the countless things you did for us, to make our lives worthwhile. Our hearts still ache with sadness, our secret tears still flow, for what it meant to lose you no one will ever know.

Loved and remembered always.

Anniversary Mass for Nellie will be held in Dysart Church on Friday, 29th August at 7.30 pm.

COSTELLO

M acLEAN

(née Kilmartin)

Dolores Marie

Lisnigerra, Athleague, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary –Died 9th Sept. 2023)

Her Smile

Though her smile has gone forever, and her hand I cannot touch.

I still have so many memories of the one I loved so much.

Her memory is my keepsake with which I’ll never part. God has her in his keeping I have her in my heart.

Sadly missed by her loving husband John and family; sisters, brothers-in-law, friends and neighbours.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday 6th September 2025 at 7 pm.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF MURPHY

G erry

Ros-Ria, The Walk, Roscommon Who passed away on September 2nd 2013 (12th Anniversary)

R.I.P.

FILAN

Imelda

Tubbermakee, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear daughter and sister who sadly passed away on 30th August, 2024.

A smile for all, a heart of gold, the very best this world could hold. Never selfish, always kind, those are the memories you left behind. Your memories are so precious, your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and missed by all of us.

Lovingly remembered by your parents Nora and Padraig; your sisters Margaret and Elaine; your brothers John and Patrick and extended family.

RYAN

(née FAHY)

Della

Moore North, Ballydangan, Athlone. (1st Anniversary)

COSTELLO

Anne

9 Ardcomain, Henry Street, Roscommon. (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Anne Costello who died 30th of August 2024

Sadly missed but never forgotten by her son James, husband Tommy and extended family.

Anne’s one year Anniversary Mass will be on the 30th of August at 7pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

KENNEDY Mary Creevy, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary who died on the 10th of August 2016

www.brianmuraystone.com

DEANE

Ballymacfrane, Donamon, Co. Roscommon.

(1st Anniversary) John (10th Anniversary)

In loving memory of MICHAEL, who passed away on 27th August 2024. May he rest in peace. Time slips by and life goes on, but from our hearts you’re never gone. We think about you always, we talk about you too, We have so many memories, but we wish we had you.

In loving memory of JOHN, who passed away on 11th September, 2015. May he rest in peace. Your life was one of kindly deeds, a helping hand for others needs. Sincere and true in heart and mind, beautiful memories left behind.

It broke our hearts but you didn’t go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you Home. Those we love must someday pass beyond our present sight, must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place, more perfect, more divine. And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright, our loved ones live forever in God’s Eternal Light.

Forever missed and loved by his wife Mary, sons John and Martin, daughters Jacqueline, Tracy, Elaine, Leonie and Ashling, sons-in-law Ian and Oisin, brother Patsy, sisters Ita, Madeline, Anne and Jean and extended family and friends. Masses offered.

Patrick

16 Circular Road, Roscommon. Who died 31st August 2001 (24th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear dad Patrick

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

Beautiful memories are wonderful things, they last till the longest day, they never wear out, they never get lost and can never be given away.

To some you may be forgotten, to others a part of the past, but to us who loved and lost you your memory will always last. Forever in our hearts.

Loved and missed by his wife, Paula; daughters Donna and Sheena, son Aaron; son-in-law Joseph and grandchildren; your brother Seamus, sister-in-law Elizabeth and extended family and friends.

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 your loving family.

1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 31st August at 11.30 am in St. Mary’s Church, Moore.

A smile for all A heart of gold

The very best this world could hold Never selfish Always kind

These are the memories you left behind Will those who think of Mary today

A little prayer to Jesus say

Loved and remembered by David, Teresa, Maria, Grace and all her family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 31st August at 10am.

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Always remembered by your nephew, nieces and extended family. Anniversary Mass for Michael and John will take place on Sunday 31st August in Clooneycolgan Church at 9.00 am.

KEAVENEY

Liam

Roundforth, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 2nd September 2022 (3rd Anniversary)

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 3rd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 6th September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

Michael

FAMILY NOTICES

KENNY (née DAVIS)

Rosaleen

Cloonlyon, Ballygar, Co. Galway Formerly Breda, Caltra, Co. Galway. Who passed away on September 1st, 2023 (2nd Anniversary)

Lovingly remembered by her son and daughter, Tomás and Áine, ex-husband Tom, her sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Take the love my darling, it’s yours to carry on. Grow that love forevermore and then I won’t be gone.’

– Verse by Donna Ashworth

Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, August 29th at 7:30pm

UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER

TO ST. ANTHONY

Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K.

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. M.B.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

WHYTE Nollaig

Coolmeen/Castlestrange, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Who sadly passed away on 4th. September, 2024 (1st Anniversary)

Remembering Nollaig on this her first Anniversary, her mother Margaret, brothers Sean, Tommie, Gerry, sister Eileen, and extended family, would like to extend our deep gratitude and appreciation to all who supported us in any way following the untimely and sudden death of Nollaig.

Thanks to our wonderful relatives, friends, neighbours, and Nollaig’s many good friends, for their unwavering support and help; and for looking after us during the most difficult of days. Thank you to our kind neighbours who called, brought food, provided car parking, lighting, and assisted with traffic management.

We thank the following for their assistance at Nollaig’s home on the day of her passing; the emergency services, An Garda Síochána and Fr. Breslin.

We wish to also thank Louis Conlon, Chemist, Athleague, for his help to Nollaig.

Thanks to those who attended Nollaig’s removal, Funeral Mass and burial, and those who travelled long distances. Also, thanks to those who sent beautiful messages and letters sharing memories of Nollaig’s life and legacy, those who sent Mass Cards, phoned and expressed condolences on R.I.P. To all Nollaig’s former work colleagues at Leitrim County Council, Roscommon County Council and Department of Education, where Nollaig dedicated so many years of her life, thank you for your letters, tributes, visits and participation in the Guard of Honour, we are most grateful.

DOLAN

Evan

(9th 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 Saturday, 30th August at 10am.

DOLAN

Evan (9th Anniversary) 31st August

In loving memory of Evan

KELLEHER

Frank

High Street, Ballygar (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Frank, who passed away on the 30th August 2019

A whisper on an August day,you heard a gentle call. You took the hand of Jesus and quietly left us all. It’s now your anniversary, you wouldn’t want a fuss, just to be remembered and prayed for by all of us.

Sadly missed by his beloved wife Nora, daughter Jacqueline and son Michael.

Anniversary Mass on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025 at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

THANKSGIVINGS THANKSGIVINGS

We extend our sincere gratitude to Pat and Gillian Smyth and John Smyth of Smyth Funeral Directors, for the professional manner with which they handled the funeral arrangements.

A special word of thanks to our wonderful neighbours who lined the roads of Coolmeen and Castlestrange as Nollaig made her final journey from home to Athleague Church. A sincere thanks to those who took part in the Guard of Honour, as the cortege made its way from Athleague church to the graveyard. Also, to ‘We Are Athleague’, we were most moved by your many tributes to Nollaig, notably the poster thanking Nollaig, situated in the village on the day of the funeral, and latterly the planting of a tree in her memory in the new Circle of Life Park, in Athleague Village. We also thank those who made donations to Athleague Tidy Towns/We Are Athleague.

Thanks to Fr. Ali Joe who concelebrated the Funeral Mass with Canon Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Agger SVD, and Fr. Breslin, enhanced by the beautiful music of Fuerty Church Choir. Thanks also to Teresa Murray, Sacristan, for preparing the church. To our wonderful neighbours who prepared Nollaig’s final resting place with attention to great detail and respect, we are most thankful.

Thank you to Athleague Community Centre for the use of their hall and Delicious Catering for the provision of a lovely meal.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this as an acknowledgement of our heartfelt appreciation for your support which continues to be a great comfort to us. The holy sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

AR DHEIS DÉ GO RAIBH, NOLLAIG.

Nollaig’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague, on Friday 5th September at 7.30pm.

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. Always loved Brenda. xx

To us you were someone special, what more is there to say. Wishing with all our hearts, that you were here today. Always remembered Ailish and Aidan.

As I look upon your picture, sweet memories I recall, Of a face so full of sunshine and a smile for one and 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

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. Thanks to St. Anthony and The Holy Spirt for favours received. F.B.

3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. M.M.

Robert Heneghan (in action against Elphin earlier this month)… will hope to make a significant impact for Michael Glaveys against St

Sports PEOPLE Championship cauldron: Weekend of thrills and spills ahead!

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group A): St Faithleach’s v Clann na nGael in Strokestown on Friday at 8 pm

St Faithleach’s have been very impressive thus far, recording two excellent wins. Having beaten St Dominic’s, Clann lost out to Pearses in a thriller.

I was impressed with St Faithleach’s in midfield and up front against St Dominic’s. This is a battle for top spot in the group. There won’t be much in it and I wouldn’t rule out a draw.

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group A):

Padraig Pearses v St Dominic’s in Ballyforan on Friday at 8 pm Pearses got their championship campaign back on track with a good win against Clann. St Dominic’s will have to win here to avoid a relegation battle.

Keith Doyle was a huge loss to the Knockcroghery club against St Faithleach’s. Eoin McCormack is back in the fold which is welcome news for them. Another close battle is expected here but Padraig Pearses have to get the nod to win by three or four points.

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group B):

St Brigid’s v Michael Glaveys in Lisnamult on Friday at 8 pm

This looks a very attractive fixture with plenty of good players involved. Glaveys have been going well and scoring plenty of goals but it will be a considerable step up in class when they meet Anthony

Cunningham’s men.

St Brigid’s haven’t put a foot wrong so far and they should emerge from this contest with a comfortable win.

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group B): Western Gaels v Elphin in Kilbride on Friday at 8 pm

In terms of its importance, this clash in Kilbride is probably the game of the weekend in the SFC. Neither team wants to be involved in a relegation battle, and that will be the reality for the losers here. Elphin have really struggled so far and will have to play their best game in some time if they hope to win here. The Gaels look to have too much firepower and experience and they should prevail.

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group C): Oran v Boyle in Ballinameen on Saturday at 6.30 pm

A very interesting clash is in prospect between these two clubs. Oran were disappointing against Roscommon Gaels while Boyle were easy winners against Castlerea last time out. The return of Daire Cregg has strengthened Boyle even further in attack and that might give them the edge. But on their day Oran can be very impressive so I am predicting a close game here. Boyle to edge it.

Hodson Bay Hotel Group

Roscommon SFC (Group C):

Roscommon Gaels v Castlerea St

Kevin’s in Enfield on Saturday at 6.30 pm

The town team got back on the winning

Castlerea have been struggling and are very dependent on both Aaron McDermott and Darren McDermott. Their results have been poor. It all points to the Gaels winning this one with a bit to spare.

Ward Brothers Roscommon IFC (Group A): Éire Óg v Kilmore in Frenchpark on Saturday at 6 pm; Fuerty v Padraig Pearses in Ballyforan on Saturday at 6 pm Éire Óg are going along nicely with two wins from two and they should make that three when they play Kilmore in Frenchpark on Saturday evening. They have superior firepower and look too strong for Kilmore. Fuerty and Pearses meet in Ballyforan in what should be a very competitive match. Fuerty were much improved in round two and should have enough to come through.

momentum after their great win against Creggs in round two and they should have plenty in the tank to cope with Barry’s.

Ward Brothers Roscommon IFC (Group C): Shannon Gaels v Kilbride in Kilglass on Saturday at 5.30 pm; St Brigid’s v Strokestown in Ballyleague on Saturday at 5.30 pm

Shannon Gaels will be hoping to record their first win of the championship when they face Kilbride in Kilglass. Kilbride have been really struggling this year and it would be a shock if Shannon Gaels didn’t emerge victorious by at least a few points.

trail against Oran and they look to be coming into form at the right time. With the Carthy brothers and Peter Gillooly back on the panel they look a much stronger outfit now.

Ward Brothers Roscommon IFC (Group B): Tulsk v Creggs in Knockcroghery on Saturday at 6 pm; St Barry’s v St Michael’s in Elphin on Saturday at 6 pm Tulsk have been going great guns, although they suffered a couple of injury blows in their last game. They face Creggs in Knockcroghery. Creggs will be hoping to recover from that surprise defeat at the hands of St Michael’s in round two. Tulsk look a really good side and they should have a bit to spare in the end.

St Barry’s, who have been struggling, meet St Michael’s in Elphin. The Cootehall side will have

St Brigid’s face title favourites Strokestown at Ballyleague. While the Kiltoom club’s second string are a fine side with some very good young players, it would be a shock if Strokestown don’t win this one with a bit to spare.

All you need to know!

*In the final round of matches, the games in each group will be played at the same time, and at neutral venues. The top team in each group will have a home quarter-final. The second-placed teams will automatically qualify for the quarter-finals. Third-placed teams will play off for the final two quarterfinal places. The bottom teams will enter the relegation play-offs.

Scott Oates (on the ball against Oran earlier this month)… can always be relied upon to put his shoulder to the wheel for Roscommon Gaels.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Daire Cregg… in action for Boyle against Castlerea earlier this month.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Brigid’s.
Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

All-flat card in Roscommon on Monday

Horses

for

Courses

There is a flat card at Navan this afternoon (Thursday), starting at 2.30 pm. Tomorrow evening there is a flat card at Downpatrick, away at 4.50 pm, and a national hunt meeting at Wexford, starting at 4.30 pm. Saturday sees a flat meeting at the Curragh featuring the Irish EBF Stakes, the Round Tower Stakes, and Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes – all Group 3 races, away at 1.45 pm. Tipperary sees a flat card on Sunday, starting 2.30 pm and featuring the Group 3 No Say Never Fairy Bridge Stakes. Racing on Monday sees a flat card at Lenebane, off at 4.12 pm. Television coverage this evening is from Southwell with ITV 4 covering all seven races in the Racing League on the all-weather. On Saturday, both channels are covering four races from Sandown, including two Group 3 races, the Atalanta and Solario Stakes, and two from both Beverley and Chester.

This day week, the

Yorkshire Oaks was won by Ballydoyle’s Minnie Hauk. On Friday in the Nunthorpe Stakes, Adrian Murray’s Arizona Blaze ended up favourite, but disappointed, finishing ninth behind Henry Dwyer’s Australian trained Asfoora with Oisin Murphy aboard. Saturday’s Group 1 the City of York Stakes was won by Andrew Balding’s Never So Brave with Oisin Murphy in the saddle.

On Sunday, O’Brien and Wayne Lordan won the Group 3 Prestige Fillies Stakes Goodwood with Precise, 5/2, beating Mark Prescott’s Moon Target, the 13/8f.

There was a sting in the tail with this win for Lordan when he was suspended for ten days by the whip review committee during the week. He will be out from the 9th to the 18th of September, which includes the Doncaster St Leger and Irish Champions weekend – an expensive mistake.

In France, Gstaad, 5/6f, and Ryan Moore was

beaten a neck by Karl Burke’s Venetian Sun in the Group 1 Prix Morny Stakes. In the Prix Jean Romanet Stakes their Bedtime Story could only finish 5th, beaten over 2l.

Curragh review

Aidan O’Brien and Wayne Lordan combined for a big race double at the Curragh last weekend as Constitution River won the Futurity Stakes and Composing the Debutante Stakes, both odds-on. Geryon was runner-up in the Futurity and Evolutionist in the Debutante, both trained by Ger Lyons and ridden by Gary Carroll. It was O’Brien’s 18th win in the Futurity and 15th in the Debutante. Cross-channel, O’Brien’s Exactly and Ryan Moore finished sixth in the Group 1 City Of York Stakes, but in the Ebor Handicap Ethical Diamond, 5/1f, trained by WP Mullins with William Buick aboard gave Mullins his third win in the race. It was an Irish 1, 2, 3

Concannon lands Martin Kelly Cup

In darts news, congratulations to David Concannon, who won the Martin Kelly Cup recently. There was brilliant support for the competition with 40 entries, including 10 ladies and three youths. A raffle on the night raised €750 for Roscommon-Mayo Hospice. On the dartboard, David’s run to the final came via wins over Alan Owens in the semi-final, Mark Finneran in the quarter-final, and Les Rawson in the last 16. On the opposite side Kieran Mullan overcame Aaron Blaides in the semi-final, Paul Carton in the quarter-final, and Martin Murphy in the last 16.

After a brilliant final which featured top quality darts, David emerged winner. Best Youth was Simon Neary, Best Lady was Elaine Hannon and Highest Checkout went to Kieran Mullan. Thanks to the Hollywood Bar in Roscommon for all their support and also to all who helped out on the night – especially Lori, Barbara, Hannah and David Boyle. A massive thanks to all who supported the event.

by Tom Red

with Henry de Bromhead’s Ascending 2nd and Aidan O’Brien’s Queenstown 3rd. The winner will not travel to Australia for the Melbourne Cup due to an old leg injury that probably would not pass the vets down there.

On Sunday, Champion Jockey-elect Dylan Browne McMonagle opened with a treble on Caught You Sleeping for Noel Meade and a double for Michael O’Callaghan aboard Dawn Romance and Fresh Fare. The Irish EBF Ballyogan Stakes went for export to the William Haggas trained 1/1f, Sky Majesty, who beat Vespertilio and Carla Ridge by 1¾l and ½l.

Roscommon preview

Flat racing at Lenebane on Monday next starts with 18 entries in the richest race on the card the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race for 2-Y-Os over 7f. The Elphin Handicap has the largest entry with 39 and the Lidan Handicap with 27 over the

same distance follows.

The Lecarrow Race, a conditions event over 1m 2f, is the 4th race on the card and has 14 potential runners. The last three races, run over 1m 4f, are the 25 entry Racing Here Again on September 29th, Maiden, the Oran Handicap with 33 possibles, and Roscommon Racecourse on Facebook Handicap with 19 entries.

Racing news

There are 15 left in the declarations for the Doncaster St Leger on September 13th, including

10 from Ireland. Aidan O’Brien has eight entered headed by the 1/1f Scandinavia with dual Derby winner Lambourn 6/1 2nd favourite and he is joined by Paddy Twomey with Carmers and son Joseph’s Tennessee Stud, third in the Derby.

Competition corner

Going to Roscommon on Monday evening are Patrick McDermott (Ballintubber), Declan Dillon (Fuerty), and John Henry (Athlone), who all knew Power Blue was trained by Adrian Murray to win the

Buccaneers kick off new season this evening

Buccaneers kick off their season with a double fixture against Galway Corinthians at Dubarry Park with the senior side taking on the westerners in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Senior League in a game that has been brought forward to Thursday night. Kick-off is at 8 pm while the juniors will have a 12 noon start on Saturday to the new Senior Seconds Cup. Buccs have a new coaching team led by Darin Claasen in place and it will be interesting to see how his charges perform. He has a young squad but believes there is serious potential there. He will be focussing on standards, working on the details and creating an environment where the players drive the culture.

WOMEN’S TEAM: The revived Buccaneers women’s team commenced their return to active service with a friendly encouraged by big support at home to Ophir on Sunday. The Buccs girls battled to the end to earn a commendable 26-26 draw against the more experienced Newtownards representatives.

Buccs’ scorers were Charlotte Blackweir (two tries), Siva Malassou (one try and three conversions) and Abbie Murray (try). The Buccaneers senior women’s team are now set to start into the first round of the Connacht Invitational League on September 7th on our home grounds v Westport RFC.

SECONDS FIXTURES: The fixtures list for Buccaneers Seconds has been unveiled, commencing with a trio of Senior Seconds Cup games.

The first of these is on Saturday next at home to their Corinthians counterparts with a 12 noon kick-off. Buccs then have a pair of tricky away league fixtures while, unusually, they will have a quartet of home fixtures in a row midway through the competition.

TRAINING: Time and pitch training slots have now been organised for all teams so players should check our social media for details or contact their relevant management team.

Group 1 Phoenix Stakes. There’s still another chance to win tickets for Kilbeggan on September 5th: to enter, please answer this question: In what country is Kilbeggan? Entries as usual should be made via postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon, or by email to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm on September 3rd. Don’t forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all entries. Tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

MINIS COACHING: Coaching for Buccaneers Minis players begins on Sunday, September 7th. Starting time is a little bit earlier than last season with the one-hour sessions now commencing at 10 am. New players/beginners very welcome to come along and give rugby a try!

MEMBERSHIP: Membership subscriptions are now due and may be paid via Sportlomo on the club’s website www.buccaneersrfc.com

Pictured at the Roscommon Races were Michael and Aoife Tully and Mark Kilcommons. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh
Buccaneers women’s
Marie Victory presents David Concannon with the Kelly Cup.

Short putts

ROSCOMMON

SENIOR WOMEN: 1st: Noreen O’Grady (24 pts); 2nd: Patricia Keane (23 pts); 3rd: Martina Brennan (21 pts); 4th: Pat Lyons (21 pts); 5th: Joan Moran (21 pts).

SENIOR MEN: Overall winner was Ollie Dempsey with 41 pts. Cat. 1: Willie Doyle (37 pts); Cat. 2: Jackie Kilroy (35 pts); Cat. 3: Denis O’Brien (38 pts); Cat. 4: Willie Weldon (36 pts). There were 12 deuces.

LADIES: Ladies Gala Open Day was held on Tuesday, August 19th, sponsored by Kathleen KearneyKelly and Alan Kelly. 18-hole stableford. Overall winner was Joan Hannon (42 pts). 2nd was Nicole Dowd (41 pts); 3rd: Sheila Fallon (41 pts); 4th: Mary Lalor (40 pts); 5th: Sinead Healy (40 pts); 6th: Christina Hogan (Mountbellew, 39 pts). 9-hole stableford winner was Ann Martin with 18 pts.

The Ladies Gala Open Day was a huge success again this year. 54 ladies played in the 18-hole competition and seven played in the 9-hole competition. Our thanks to Kathleen Kearney-Kelly and Alan Kelly for sponsorship of same. Overall winner of the 18-hole stableford played on Friday, August 22nd was Pauline Murray (Ballinasloe, 30 pts).

MEN: Competition on Sunday, August 24th, sponsored by Collins Boyd Engineering. 1st: Darren Beatty (44 pts); Gross: Alan Hill (34 pts); Cat. 1: Paulie Hoare (43 pts); Cat. 2: Declan Browne (41 pts); Cat. 3: Frank Beatty (40 pts). Friday Open 18-hole winner was Clement McCormack with 40 pts.

PARENT & CHILD COMPETITION: Thank you to all who took part in our annual Parent & Child event last Friday and Sunday. There was a huge entry and everyone enjoyed the competition. The competition is sponsored by Ruth Lennon and her family in memory of her parents, John and Mary McGuigan, two wonderful past members of our club. Presentation of prizes will take place in a few weeks’ time.

TEAMS: It’s a huge week for our Barton Shield and Senior Cup teams who travel to Douglas, Co Cork for the All-Ireland finals. Roscommon will play Co Louth in the Barton Shield on Thursday morning at 9 am (in the quarter-finals) while on Saturday morning the Senior Cup team play the same opposition, starting at 11.30 am.

The club wishes captain Enda Daly and his team the very best of luck. A large crowd of club members will travel to the finals. A big thank you to all those who have helped out with sponsorship and donations.

Roscommon Golf Club teams in All-Ireland action

This week (starting today, Thursday 28th) the Roscommon Golf Club senior men’s team will compete in the AIG All-Ireland finals at Douglas in Cork in both the Barton Shield and Senior Cup competition.

Earlier in the year the team, under the captaincy of Enda Daly, won the Connacht Barton Shield and Senior Cup competitions, which was the first time in the history of the club that feat was achieved.

The team will face Co Louth Golf Club

in both competitions this week. First into action will be the Barton Cup team who will play this Thursday morning (today) at 9 am in the quarter-finals. If they are successful, the semi-finals will be played later on Thursday. The Senior Cup team play their quarter-final on Saturday morning at 11.30 am.

A large crowd of club members and supporters are making the journey south for the finals.

Roscommon will be without Thomas Higgins and Cian O’Connor, both of whom have returned to their colleges in the USA.

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)
Roscommon Town 1 U-12
Boys… recently crowned Premier Division League champions.
Roscommon Town 3 U-14 Boys… recently crowned Second Division champions.
Jimmy Joyce was the recent winner of the Captain’s Prize at Castlerea Golf Club. Pictured at an enjoyable presentation ceremony were (back row, left to right): Geraldine Mulrennan, Emmett Patten, Mike Greene, Una McNeill, Sean Naughton, Mary Finan, Cian McLoughlin and Eamonn O’Loughlin. Front row, left to right: Alan Devine (Captain); Jimmy Joyce, winner of the Captain’s Prize; Lady Captain Ruth Sullivan; Club President Jim McDonnell.
Gerry McNulty of McNulty’s Furniture, Roscommon presents a sponsorship cheque to team captain Enda Daly and Men’s captain Robbie McConn ahead of this week’s All-Ireland interclub finals in Douglas, Co Cork in which Roscommon Golf Club teams are participating.

SPORTS DESK

Going local: Dowd era ‘throws in’

With no disrespect to all previous ‘outside’ managers of the Roscommon senior football team – and we will most likely look beyond the county more often than not in the future – I find it refreshing that the County Board has unapologetically placed its faith in home-grown talent this time.

I’m glad that the new Roscommon manager grew up in Strokestown, that he knows our county’s highways and byways, is on firstname terms with the ordinary man and woman in the street, is familiar with generations of our footballers, and is currently coaching a senior club in the county. This feels good, reassuring, interesting… very much worth a try.

He’s not a celebrity, not considered a ‘big name’ by the national media – he’s one of us, embedded in our community, familiar with our GAA culture and heritage.

Last Thursday night, County Board delegates put an official stamp on the appointment of Mark Dowd, mandating the popular Strokestown native to plot the course ahead for the senior football team of this GAA-mad county.

The man chosen to succeed Davy Burke has a coaching CV that certainly justified his inclusion on any shortlist. He’s been involved with titlewinning Roscommon underage teams over many years, stretching back to our memorable AllIreland Minor Championship win in 2006.

I think it’s positive that the County Board decided to appoint ‘from within’. And from what I can discern, supporters seem to be pleased with the appointment. The new manager is a respected figure in GAA circles here, and the ‘go local’ policy appears to have widespread support.

Dowd will go straight into the ‘lion’s den’ in that the heavyweights await Roscommon in Division One. Whatever our fate there (survival would be a tremendous achievement for Dowd & Co) this ambitious football county needs to move to a new level in the championship.

There is significant potential in Roscommon football at present, with a nice mix of established senior players and exciting new, young talent. I think supporters will also want to see a more ambitious and less conservative style of football.

This is of course a significant step up for Mark Dowd, and a great and exciting opportunity for him to pitch his talents against the established top managers in the country.

Time will tell how successful or otherwise Dowd’s tenure in the senior ‘hot seat’ proves to be. Certainly he starts with the goodwill of Roscommon’s passionate supporter base behind him. I wish our new manager and his management team every success.

Fleetwood’s long wait ends

Tommy Fleetwood’s status as one of the most popular golfers on the professional circuit was established a number of years ago.

There’s always been something special about the young Englishman. With his distinctive hairstyle (there’s an Instagram account called Tommy Fleetwood’s Hair), warm and friendly personality and easygoing nature, he’s become a fans’ favourite.

While he’s won a number of tournaments on the

European circuit, Fleetwood’s wait for a trophy on the PGA Tour had become one of the dominant golf stories of the last while, particularly in recent months when he consistently challenged on the final day of events, on occasions squandering a lead when within sight of the elusive breakthrough victory. At times, there were shades of Jimmy White, who famously made it to six World Snooker finals only to finish runner-up in all of them.

As such, it was a relief – and a delight – to see Fleetwood hold off the challenge of 29 more of the world’s top golfers and win the very prestigious Tour Championship in Atlanta on Sunday evening.

His richly deserved first American tournament win landed him a rather tasty ten million dollars first prize (around €8.5m).

Pat Ryan – one of the GAA’s great gentlemen

It’s a pity to see Pat Ryan’s reign as Cork hurling manager end without the Holy Grail being reached.

Ryan is one of the good guys – a thorough gentleman, and a coach who always conducts himself with dignity and sportsmanship.

Any neutral I’ve spoken to over the years was willing this man to lead Cork to an All-Ireland senior hurling title (the Rebels haven’t won the Liam MacCarthy Cup since 2005). Watching him on the sidelines over the years, it was impossible

not to be impressed by his sheer decency. That view was always backed up by his media interviews, whether on the occasion of defeat or victory.

This year it looked as though Cork’s famine might end. 2025 saw Ryan guide his team to a Munster title and a first National League success in 27 years, but a remarkable second-half collapse – coupled with a sensational Tipperary surge – saw their All-Ireland dreams perish.

It is reported that the Cork County Board wanted Ryan to sign up for a new three-year term, and some suggestions that they asked him to change his management team. Whatever the nitty-gritty of the talks, it was ‘no deal’. I think his departure is a big loss to Cork hurling.

Ryan will surely be in demand as a coach in the coming years. Indeed I wouldn’t be that surprised if he made a return with the Rebel County at some point in the future.

New kid on block

You know you’re getting old when… there’s a guy playing in the Premier League who was born on the last day of… 2009.

When Max Dowman came on as a second-half substitute for Arsenal against Leeds last Saturday, he became the second youngest player in Premier League history (the record is held by Ethan Nwaneri, who made his debut (also for Arsenal) at the age of 15 years and 181 days). Dowman was 15 years and 235 days old when he joined the play last weekend.

Entries invited for Roscommon Pool League

After the long summer break, the Roscommon Pool League is back. There are three divisions. All teams are graded and divisions work on a promotion/relegation format. Each team can name a panel of up to 15 players however you only need a minimum of 6 players on the night.

Games are on every Friday night with each team playing home and away against all teams in their division.

All new teams from Roscommon or the border areas are welcome. Closing date for new teams is September 14th. It is very enjoyable and good fun on a Friday night with good prize-money for winners and runners-up of all leagues as well as top players in each division. There was over €8,000 in prizes last season.

New teams interested in entering/any queries, please contact Darren on 087-9332818.

Action from the Airtricity Women’s Premier Division game played last Saturday between Athlone Town and Shelbourne (Athlone won 2-1). Kate McNally celebrates her and Athlone’s first goal with teammates. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell
Leinster pipped Connacht by 17-12 in the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship game played at Dexcom Stadium last Saturday. Pictured in action is Jemima Adams Verling of Creggs. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

St Brigid’s enter a comfort zone!

LGFA update

St Brigid’s will be able to sit back and watch the quarter-finals of the Dermot Hughes Cars SFC in comfort in three weeks’ time, after goals from Kate Nolan and Sarah O’Rourke saw them past the challenge of Éire Óg in what was effectively a group decider at Kiltoom on Sunday.

The visitors were right in the game in the early stages when two Rebecca Finan points and one from Amy Doory had them level at 0-3 apiece.

The Kiltoom and Cam parish side pushed on to lead by 1-7 to 0-4 at halftime, Kate Nolan palming in their goal. Another superb save from the in-form Lily Vickers kept Éire Óg in the game but they needed a green flag of their own and had a great chance to put one on the board when Rebecca Finan cut through the home defence and was brought down. Caoimhe O’Reilly produced an excellent one-handed save to palm away Finan’s penalty however. By early into the second half, St Brigid’s were out of sight.

Alison Nugent kicked two out of three points that were scored in the first 90 seconds after the restart, Sarah O’Rourke found the net for a second goal and with St Brigid’s using their deep bench to good effect, Rebecca Madden’s goal in the 47th minute was only a consolation score in a 2-16 to 1-5 defeat for the West Roscommon club.

Grace Corrigan and Sara Raftery made their debut for Éire Óg, who will now travel to the Abbey Park on September 14th for a testing quarter-final. Boyle will go into that tie in confident form after putting Shannon Gaels to the sword at home, 7-17 to 0-7. The home side were in complete command from the first whistle, moving the ball with fluency and pace and racking up an incredible 4-5 before Shannon Gaels got off the mark in the 20th minute.

Sinéad Glennon (3), Aisling Feely, Emma Duggan and Micheala Ward all raised green flags to give their side a

26-point lead at the interval. Shannon Gaels, to their credit, kept trying with Ciara Dowd their main source of scores. They also improved immensely on the defensive side.

Heather Kerins, Micheala Ward, Grace Flanagan and Aimee Roddy all added their names to the scoresheet after halftime, the seventh goal coming from Roddy, while Natasha O’Grady crowned a tireless and impressive display with two points.

Clann assembling their forces Life won’t get any easier for Shannon Gaels in the quarter-finals, with a trip to a resurgent Clann na nGael side up next. Clann made the short trip to Knockcroghery and came away with a 3-12 to 2-10 win, their goals coming from Kara Earle, Caoimhe Lennon and Susie Kelly.

However perhaps the most encouraging aspect for the county champions was the number of established players that saw their first championship action of the year.

Ruth Finlass, Mia Macken, Kara O’Neill and Áine Connaughton were all part of a star-studded bench for the Johnstown club.

St Dominic’s fared well in the opening half and took a one-point lead into the dressing room. Early in the second half they were handed a huge opportunity when Róise Lennon was sin-binned as she conceded a penalty. Eadaoín Lennon’s save kept the game in the balance and eventually Clann gave themselves a sliver of breathing room, led by Kim Finlass and Shauna Bannon. Four points from teenage inside-forward Hope Glynn was another bright spark for the winners. St Dominic’s will take encouragement from the return of Niamh Fitzgerald, a timely boost ahead of a quarter-final clash with St Ciarán’s.

Pearses’ momentum continues

Pádraig Pearses became the first team to confirm their place in the semi-final line-up in the Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant Intermediate Championship, picking up a 5-12 to 2-10 win over St Croan’s in Enfield.

Pearses had the ball in the net after just 90 seconds through Laura Glennon and were nine points up by the midway point of the first half.

While the scores flowed thick and fast, the full-back line of Róisín O’Sullivan, Emma McGreal and Katie Malone stood firm to ensure St Croan’s trailed by 3-9 to 0-5 at the interval, a lead which was stretched further by a Caitlin Malone goal early in the second half.

Spearheaded by the relentless Natasha O’Rourke, St Croan’s had their purple patch, finding the net through well-taken Sinéad Kenny and Ella Thompson goals to briefly reduce the margin to eight.

Ultimately Pearses were too strong and a late breakaway goal from Glennon sealed the win, their only concern the injuryenforced withdrawal of midfielder Áine Ryan.

St Barry’s aren’t certain of their place in the last four yet but the Division One league finalists took care of business easily at home on Sunday, racking up a 7-22 to 0-4 win over a depleted Western Gaels.

Aoife Tighe (2-3), Cara Cox (2-2), Georgia Gerrity (0-5, 0-4f), Edel Beirne (1-2), Charlotte Trautt (1-1) and Karen O’Boyle (0-3) were among the leading scorers for St Barry’s, who hit the net four times between the 12th and the 18th minute.

Hanly saves Kilbride It was much tighter between Kilbride and Michael Glaveys, the two sides who right now look to be competing for the last semi-final spot behind Pearses, St Barry’s and St Croan’s.

A late Aisling Hanly goal gave Kilbride a share of the spoils, ending their long run of defeats as it finished 2-7 to 1-10 in Kilbride.

Sheila Brady (1-5) and Niamh Fleming (0-3) continued to carry the bulk of the scoring load for Michael Glaveys, who led by the minimum at half-time thanks to Brady’s goal.

Laura McSharry found the net with a superb score to give Kilbride a lead three minutes into the second half and when

Hanly split the posts with a free early in the second half, the home side were three in front.

Glaveys took over from there to score six points in a row, Shannon Hibbitt and Shauna Fleming among the players that helped the Ballinlough club take control.

Another defeat for Kilbride looked likely until Hanly found the net in stoppage time to level the tie and end the club’s run of 15 consecutive losses.

Harps hit the high notes in Tulsk

The quarter-final line-up was also nailed down in the Leydon Brothers JFC, with Northern Harps securing the muchcoveted bye to the last four.

The contests to join them will see St Faithleach’s take on Castlerea St Kevin’s in O’Rourke Park, Four Roads play Kilglass/Kilmore, and the tie of the round should be the meeting of St Mary’s and Oran in Tulsk.

Oran’s local derby clash with Castlerea was a wonderful contest where both sides emerged with credit, Castlerea eventually winning 4-11 to 4-9.

Áine Keenan’s kickouts gave Castlerea a solid base of possession, while Holly Hopkins was strong at full-back in a tight first half that ended with the home side 2-5 to 1-3 in front at O’Rourke Park.

Oran came back strongly after halftime and briefly took a narrow lead, but a Megan Flanagan goal (her second), assisted by a long delivery from her cousin Abi Flanagan, gave St Kevin’s a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

In the Group A table-topping clash at Tulsk, Northern Harps gave themselves

a free weekend when Player of the Match Shauna McGrath (1-7), Ciara Cunningham (2-4), Leah Casey (1-2) and Anna Carty (1-0) scored freely in their 5-13 to 3-13 win over St Mary’s.

Hannah Moylan and Grace Jones were leading lights for the home side who never quite overcame a strong start from the Harps.

There were just three points between the teams in Tisrara Community Park, but St Faithleach’s still looked comfortable for the majority of their 3-10 to 3-7 win over Four Roads.

Ellen Irwin got an early goal while Joan Geoghegan hit 1-7 in the first half for a wind-assisted St Faithleach’s side that led by 3-9 to 1-2 at the interval.

Despite Alison Corrigan and Katie Lawlor adding to Sinéad Scott’s first-half goal and Linda Carty scoring four points, it was only right at the end that Four Roads got back within a single score of the Ballyleague side.

In the Castlerea Vehicle Recycling Junior B & C, there were two games played in Group B. Kilbride put their first win on the board in Knockcroghery, 6-6 to 1-8 over St Dominic’s, while St Michael’s/St Ronan’s finally saw action after receiving a walkover in the first round. Sarah Lee scored 2-2 for the ‘Saints’ in Croghan against Shannon Gaels.

Please see http://roscommonlgfa.ie/ fixtures-2025 for all updated fixtures and results. Roscommon LGFA would like to thank Dermot Hughes Cars, Coachman’s Inn/Harry’s Restaurant, Leydon Brothers and Castlerea Vehicle Recycling for their generous sponsorship of the adult club championships in the county.

The St Michael’s/St Ronan’s Junior Ladies panel and management pictured in Croghan before their championship game v Shannon Gaels.
Captains Danielle Gannon (St Michael’s/St Ronan’s) and Aisling O’Hart (Shannon Gaels) pictured with referee Vivian Hardiman before their game in Croghan on Friday.

Gaels withstand late Tremane rally to advance

Kepak Roscommon SHC

Roscommon Gaels 1-17 Tremane 3-8

Tremane are out of this year’s Roscommon SHC after this threepoint loss to local rivals Roscommon Gaels in Lisnamult last Sunday. This ‘winner take all’ contest came to life in the final quarter and there was a dramatic conclusion as the Gaels edged home in the end.

For most of the way the town team looked on course for a comfortable win, but Tremane staged a desperate late rally that reduced the margin to a point at one stage. Late scores from Finn Killion (2) and Richard Walsh saw Ronan O’Meara’s side over the line in a welter of excitement.

Indeed there was confusion at the venue over the course of the final ten minutes as referee John Rogerson insisted that the scoreboard was wrong and that Tremane had scored an additional point. However no one in the press box could establish that any error had been made and we were all of the view that the final score for Tremane should have been a point less (3-7). In the end, it didn’t matter.

When the dust settled, Roscommon Gaels were deserved winners but they can thank veteran goalkeeper Brendan Quinn for their victory as he pulled off at least three magnificent saves in the final ten minutes when Tremane were looking for matchwinning goals.

There was a brisk breeze blowing towards the town goal, and with that behind them in the first half, the home side took full advantage. Richard Walsh and Finn Killion were sharp up front while further out the field Eoin Kiernan, Ciaran Mulry, DJ Hession and Diarmuid Mulry were also prominent.

The Gaels led by 0-6 to no score after 12 minutes, but then on a rare excursion into attack, Tremane scored an excellent opportunist goal in the 14th minute. Unsurprisingly, it came from their best player, Peter Kellehan. The home side were still on top, and Eoin Kiernan swept home a goal on the rebound after 20 minutes to confirm the dominance of Roscommon Gaels. At half-time he score was Roscommon Gaels 1-10 Tremane 1-3.

Three minutes after the break Tremane struck for goal number two when Kellehan drove a 20-metre free through a forest of legs and into the net. However, points from Killion (2) and Ciaran Mulry saw the Gaels back in business and they looked

good for a comfortable win.

Still, Tremane were improving all the time, and driven on by the outstanding Peter Kellehan, they looked increasingly dangerous as the game went on. Substitute John Brennan fired home a great goal in the 47th minute to keep the contest in the melting pot as the finishing post came into view.

Gaels’ goalkeeper Brendan Quinn then made two marvellous saves from Padraic Brennan and Cathal Mahony before three successive points from Kellehan narrowed the gap to a point. It was then that the referee insisted that Tremane had scored an additional point, this adding to the growing drama, the scoreboard duly amended. It was the Gaels who finished the game the stronger side and points from Finn Killion (two frees) and Richard Walsh settled the issue.

The result now means that Roscommon Gaels will face Padraig Pearses (who they defeated earlier in the championship) in the quarterfinal while in the other quarter-final Athleague will play St Dominic’s. Oran and Four Roads are already through to the semi-finals. Tremane’s championship season is now over.

Roscommon Gaels: Brendan Quinn; Luca Cormican, David Hough, Conor Grogan; Kevin Glynn, Dean Conlon, Diarmuid Mulry (0-1); DJ Hession, Liam Naughton; Eoin Kiernan (1-1), Ciaran Mulry (0-2), Orin Walsh; Kieran Coyle, Richard Walsh (0-3), Finn Killion (0-9, 7 frees). Subs: Tom Beisty for Grogan (51).

Tremane: Kevin Kellehan; Niall Brennan, Cathal Brennan, Shane McAndrew; Cian O’Brien, Michael Kellehan, Niall Keenan; Seamus Lynch, Sean Mahony (0-1); Peter Kellehan (2-7, 1-4 frees, ’65), Joe Brennan, Padraic Brennan; Cathal Mahony, Evan Murray, Kevin Brennan. Subs: John Brennan (1-0) for Murray (18), Aidan Monaghan for Lynch (h/t), John Neilan for C Mahony (h/t), Mossy Tiernan for K Brennan (46).

Referee: John Rogerson.

Man of the Match

Brendan Quinn (Roscommon Gaels)

Note: In the opening game last Sunday Four Roads defeated Oran by 2-14 to 0-14 but with both sides already into the semi-finals the result will not affect either team.

Roscommon Gaels defeated Tremane by 1-17 to 3-8 in the Kepak Roscommon SHC at Lisnamult last Sunday. Evan Murray (Tremane) and David Hough (Roscommon Gaels) compete in the air. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon Gaels defeated Tremane by 1-17 to 3-8 in the Kepak Roscommon SHC at Lisnamult last Sunday. Kevin Glynn (Roscommon Gaels) closes in on Padraic Brennan of Tremane. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

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Roscommon People - 28 August 2025 by RossiePeople - Issuu