Roscommon People - 7 March 2025 by RossiePeople

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

TREES

I want to cut a tall tree that sits between my neighbours property and mine. I always worry that it will fall and cause damage. The roots are on both of our properties. Can I cut it down or do I need to ask my neighbour’s permission?

If a tree’s trunk stands directly on the boundary between your property and your neighbour’s, it is generally considered jointly owned. In this case, you cannot remove the tree without your neighbour’s consent.

You are permitted to trim branches or roots that encroach onto your property, but only up to the boundary line. However, you cannot carry out such works that would cause harm to the overall health of the tree. If your pruning leads to the tree dying, you could face:

1. A legal claim for damages – Your neighbour could take civil action against you for the cost of replacing the tree or any damage caused.

2. Fines or penalties – If the tree was protected under a Tree Preservation Order or located in a conservation area, you could be ﬁned.

3. Liability for property damage – If the tree falls and damages property (yours or theirs), you may be responsible for the repair costs.

It is always advisable to inform your neighbour before doing any work so as to maintain good relations and avoid disputes.

Additionally, ensure that any tree work complies with local regulations, such as checking for Tree Preservation Orders with your local authority.

Importantly, from March 1 to August 31, cutting or destroying vegetation is generally prohibited to protect wildlife.

award or settlement

Now THAT was TV gold!

I know, but uncomfortable all the same…

But you couldn’t take your eyes off it! There was some tension in the room!

It was pretty amazing… the most tense meeting I’ve seen in years!

It started off ﬁne… then the macho stuff kicked in!

Suddenly the body language changed, and you could cut that tension with a knife! All that talk about ego… Eh, yeah…

It must have been a strange experience for the folks with the cameras, ﬁlming it…

Not to mention for the rest of us looking in from our living rooms… our jaws on the ﬂoor!

It’s not often you see such an awkward public stand-off between two men. Well, THREE if you count Vance… Huh?

Zelensky, Trump AND Vance… like, there were three egos at play!

HUH?

I’m just saying there were three involved… Trump and Vance, and to a lesser degree Zelensky…

Trump and Vance? And Zelensky? THAT awkward exchange? Oh no… I’ve been talking about Tommy Tiernan v Chris Eubank!

(They pause to watch a recording of last weekend’s Tommy Tiernan Show in which former boxer Chris Eubank made bizarre

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

statements while also challenging his very patient host when questioned about ego)

Well… that was short notice… What? That gathering in the local on Sunday night…

Awkward TV moments… and those Gaelic football rule changes

Oh yeah, it was good craic…

In our WhatsApp group, Casey called it an emergency meeting… I think he billed it ‘Rules and stools’…

It could have been worse… he could have gone with ‘Rules and fools’… Indeed! So, to explain to our readers… Casey invited a few of us to the local to sit on our barstools and discuss the debate that has arisen about the new Gaelic football rules…

Do you think Casey panicked a bit?

Huh?

I mean, we beat Cork by 14 points on Saturday, I think those new rules are suiting us! I know! But there was some resistance suddenly voiced to them at the weekend, and Casey felt we should review them ourselves… over a pint or two!

It was funny when he started the role play in the bar!

Yeah! He had me as a goalkeeper… and asked you to time my imaginary kickouts!

Then the pub bore asked those lads from Oran to demonstrate the ‘3 up’ rule… I felt the barman was getting frustrated when we began to use barstools as midﬁeld players...

Deﬁnitely! Why do you think we didn’t get a late drink?!

Remind me?

Because the barman played us at our own game… he sounded a hooter 10 minutes after closing time!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Olivia Costello, with the Roscommon Town golfer reaching the ﬁnal of the Women’s Spanish Amateur Championship, only losing out in that decider on the last hole

Roscommon senior footballers, who got their bid to gain promotion back to the league’s top division back on track with an excellent win away to Cork last Saturday

It’s been a BAD week for…

Dignity (and diplomacy) in politics, with American President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance engaging in a public row with President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky

PIC OF THE WEEK: My ball! A scramble for possession during last Sunday’s Allianz Hurling League Division Three game between Mayo and Roscommon in Tooreen. Mayo won by 3-25 to 1-12. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

‘Rental rates’ cited as reason for impasse over Ballaghaderreen PCC

Senator Gareth Scahill (Fine Gael) received an update from the ofﬁce of Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill this week concerning the development of a new Primary Care Centre (PCC) in Ballaghaderreen.

The update conﬁrmed that the HSE had terminated its agreement with the previously selected provider after the developer failed to commence work within the required three-month window.

According to the email, seen by the Roscommon People, the developer subsequently informed the HSE they could no longer proceed at the agreed rental rates which they committed to in their tender submission.

According to a spokesperson for the minister, three options are under consideration to move the project forward. The options being considered by the HSE are purchasing the proposed site with planning permission from the previous preferred provider at market value and the HSE would either tender works directly or run a ‘sale leaseback’ operational lease model with the site; purchasing an alternative site or building, if available, and the HSE would design and tender the works directly, or the HSE would re-advertise operational lease offering to the market.

The minister’s ofﬁce says that ofﬁcials in the Department of Health are “engaging with the HSE” to determine the best course of action to deliver the facility as expediently as possible.

Based on the recent developments as conﬁrmed by the Health Minister, the future of the long-

delayed Ballaghaderreen PCC is uncertain.

Fianna Fáil councillor Sean Moylan (Boyle MD) had previously sought an update on the PCC at the Regional Health Forum. First proposed in 2012, the plan for the new centre, located on Convent Road, included a modern two-storey facility with a GP suite, pharmacy, and a range of medical services across 13,300 square feet.

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill.

Reunited: Lost family photos find their way home

Big response to People appeal

A collection of old family photographs which were found on Battery Road in Longford Town over Christmas has been reunited with its rightful owner, thanks to the efforts of a kind stranger and eagle-eyed readers of the Roscommon People

Last week, we published a selection of the photos along with a short appeal, sparking a wave of responses from readers – some even recognising their younger selves. The appeal led to the discovery of the owner, Catherine Carrig, who was “100 per cent delighted” to have them back.

Ms Carrig explained that the photos, belonging to her late mother, Lena Carrig (nee Mannion), were lost from her father’s car while in Longford to buy a car light.

“Around New Year’s, somebody put up a few on Facebook. I got those back, but I assumed the rest were lost for good,” she said.

Thanks to the ‘Good Samaritan’ who found them and posted them to this newspaper, the treasured photos have now been safely returned. We are contacting the finder to let them know their efforts were a success.

The only clue to their origins was the photographer’s mark, ‘M.A. Farrell, Roscommon’. Despite this, readers helped trace them to the Mannion family of Ardkeel, Roscommon, and with a little detective work, they finally made their way home to a very thankful owner.

Ms Carrig concluded: “I cannot thank the person who found them and all those who helped reunite them with me enough.”

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

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Community Challenge begins on Friday

Events over two days

The ﬁnal countdown is on as we approach the start lines for the 2025 Roscommon Community Challenge!

There is huge interest in this twoday event, which is taking place on Friday evening, March 7th, with a choice of a 5 or 8km walk or run, and continues on Saturday, March 8th, with a 70km leisurely cycle around Roscommon and East Galway. Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Sports Park are this year’s chosen charities. This community event is for everyone – walkers, runners, joggers, and cyclists of all abilities. If previous years’ Challenges are anything to go by, and with the level of interest in this year’s one so far, organisers are predicting that this could be the biggest one yet. There has been a huge response from members of the public who signed up for the associated training plan with 130 people joining

in on the ﬁrst night of the year. Cycling clubs locally are using this spin out as their ﬁrst event of the 2025 season, so all in, all the weekend promises to be one of fun and community.

The event will kick off with the choice of either a 5k or 8k walk or run, starting at 8 pm sharp from Roscommon Community Sports Park. A warm-up will be led by personal trainer Liam Hannon. After your walk and run, it’s back into the sports park for some delicious post-event treats. You will be musically entertained throughout the night by resident DJ Ashe as she belts out the tunes.

As with last year, the last mile of this run will be dedicated to the memory of the late Maire Allen, a lady synonymous with Roscommon Special Olympics and indeed many other voluntary groups. Maire passed away in September 2023 but her legacy and good work in the area of special needs and disability will never be forgotten.

Saturday’s schedule

On Saturday, March 8th, the leisurely cycle will depart from the sports park at 9 am to enjoy 70km of mainly ﬂat road that will see a tour of the general RoscommonEast Galway area with a refreshment stop in Kilkerrin. Then it’s back to the clubhouse to meet up for some fabulous post-cycle food from old friend Paddy Paella. Join in later on that evening for a postevent gathering in Foxe’s Pub in Roscommon Town.

Participants for both days are encouraged to register in advance on Eventbrite/Roscommon Community Challenge.

Without doubt, none of this would be possible without the encouragement and professionalism received from Roscommon Sports Partnership and organisers are extremely grateful to CEO Noel Feeley and his staff David Brady, Atalia Tavares, John Joe Nally, and Noelle Carling. A very special word of gratitude to Martin Hannon in the ofﬁce.

Check out Roscommon Community Challenge’s social media for further information.

Alan to exhibit at RHA Dublin…

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

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the roads set out in the schedule

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Greg O’Donnell Acting Director of Services TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the roads set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

THURSDAY

The genius of Gene Gene Hackman was probably my favourite movie actor. He is unquestionably in the pantheon of greats, up there with Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, Marlon Brando, Anthony Hopkins, Morgan Freeman, Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, and many others, not forgetting the best of the stars of earlier eras such as James Stewart, Humphrey Bogart, etc.

Others, like Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, were great personal favourites of mine, but I can honestly say that Hackman was probably the actor who most captivated me. There was a period in the 1990s when he seemed to dominate our screens, producing consistently brilliant performances, often across varying genres. Amongst his greatest roles were those in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and the chilling Mississippi Burning. I only discovered recently that he had a terriﬁc cameo appearance (well worth checking out on YouTube) in the Mel Brooks comedy, Young Frankenstein.

A wonderful actor with an electrifying screen presence, Gene Hackman was undoubtedly one of the greatest ﬁgures in movie history.

Hackman (95) and his wife, Betsy Arakawa (65) were found dead at their home today. An investigation is underway. May they rest in peace.

FRIDAY

Oval and out

An otherwise normal Friday evening has just been hijacked by events ‘stateside’. Everyone’s talking about the row in the White House. President Trump and Vice-President Vance have humiliated Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky during extremely tense exchanges in the Oval Ofﬁce. It made for very unpleasant viewing. Within minutes, Zelensky had departed.

I can recall seeing American presidents, going back to the era of the late Jimmy Carter, welcoming world leaders to the White House, and such

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

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

events were always conducted with dignity and diplomacy, regardless of how strained relations might actually be.

What just happened in the Oval Ofﬁce is unprecedented, not that I can agree with glum political commentator Larry Donnelly (reacting on Today FM’s The Last Word as I write), who seems to think it’s the end of civilisation (well, almost).

The meeting between Zelensky and Trump/Vance in front of the media was actually going ﬁne for about half an hour. Then Zelensky to some degree ‘poked the bear’ in its own cave.

When the Ukrainian president started presenting his historical perspective of Russia’s treatment of Ukraine, and then challenged the vice-president on what he meant by diplomatic measures, it sparked a disproportionately ﬁerce response from Vance. Trump took his cue from Vance’s outburst.

The reservations – indeed personal enmity – both Trump and Vance have when it comes to Zelensky unleased a tirade of abuse.

It’s clear that Trump has lost patience with what he depicts as freeloading by Zelensky, while Vance unconvincingly implied that the Ukrainian president is not sufﬁciently grateful for US support

(the evidence suggests otherwise). These differences of opinion should have been articulated behind closed doors. Did they deliberately trap their guest in public? Perhaps. Zelensky was combative, but he was treated as no Head of State should be. This public dressing down was an example of low standards in high places.

SATURDAY

Pat Ingoldsby (RIP)

I was sorry to hear of the passing today of the unique poet/children’s TV presenter, Pat Ingoldsby. He was 82. Known for his quirky writing style, he was a free spirit who often seemed to view the world through the eyes of a child. His poems and books were usually humorous, but many were poignant and moving too.

Growing up in Rooskey in the 1970s and ‘80s, I was always drawn to Pat Ingoldsby’s columns in the Evening Press, knowing that I would be reading some ‘off-centre’ view of the world. He lifted hearts and put smiles on faces.

At his peak, there was a heart-warming zaniness to his observations that was reminiscent of Spike Milligan.

Here, in full, is an Ingoldsby threeliner on death:

DYING

‘If it was good enough for Johnny Cash it’ll do me’

SATURDAY

The ego has landed

Former champion boxer Chris Eubank was a guest on The Tommy Tiernan Show tonight. It was a pretty extraordinary appearance.

Courteously told by the show host that he was coming across as egotistical, Eubank seemed startled, and huffed that he had been invited on to the show (“Your team asked me to come and see you”).

Always a bit on the eccentric side, Eubank appeared to be in full attention-seeking mode in this outing, regularly referring to himself in the third person as he spoke (at length) about spirituality (and what most viewers would consider his strange interpretation of it). Tiernan displayed commendable patience. Mind you, I still ﬁnd Eubank likeable; people like him add variety to life.

While it felt like the most awkward chat show interview I’ve seen in years, somehow it managed to be only the second weirdest ‘TV moment’ of the week…

SUNDAY

The Oscar goes to…

The Oscars are a hard watch, so I can’t watch… all of the annual ceremony. No chance. But credit where it’s due, ﬁrst-time host Conan O’Brien was excellent.

MONDAY

Rudest ratings

Reﬂecting further on Oval Ofﬁcegate, it strikes me that an unquestionably rude Donald Trump was actually only the third rudest person in the room! I’d give the runner-up spot to smug reporter Brian Glenn, who saw the way the wind was blowing and decided to have his own populist pop at President Zelensky.

Sneering Glenn had the cheek to pitch in with: “Why don’t you wear a suit? You’re at the highest level in this country’s ofﬁce, and you refuse to wear a suit. Do you own a suit?” Rudest person in the room on the day? That ‘accolade’ undoubtedly goes to the insufferably arrogant JD Vance. The vice-president was more annoying than President Trump, and much of the blame for the unseemly episode can be laid at his feet.

TUESDAY

Morning, Jim!

When I tuned into Morning Ireland (RTE Radio 1) midway through a discussion between Darren Frehill and Jim Gavin on the new Gaelic football rules, the atmosphere between them seemed ever so slightly strained. At one point a polite but ﬁrm Jim said: “You’re the journalist”, following up with “You obviously haven’t read the data…”

Happily, they seemed to get back on track. Then Darren wrapped up the interview: “Our thanks to Jim… McGuinness.”

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Nine nights of excellent drama coming up at 61st Glenamaddy Festival

After the excitement of hosting such a successful milestone 60th annual Theatre Festival last year, Glenamaddy Theatre Festival are celebrating their 61st festival this year.

The festival will run from Friday, 21st of March to Saturday, 29th of March in Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre. Nine nights of excellent drama will take place in the beautiful Town Hall Theatre.

The Festival programme provides a range of fantastic theatre over the nine nights. The line-up is as follows: Friday, 21st of March: Big Guerilla Productions (non-competitive) ‘Indigestion’ by Seamus O’Rourke; Saturday, 22nd of March: Coroﬁn Dramatic Society, Co Clare (OPEN) ‘The Weir’ by Conor McPherson; Sunday, 23rd of March: Cornmill Theatre Group, Co Leitrim (OPEN) ‘A Whistle in the Dark’ by Tom Murphy; Monday, 24th of March: Phoenix Players, Co Sligo (CONFINED) ‘Translations’ by Brian Friel; Tuesday, 25th of March: Flavour of the Month Productions, Co Kerry (CONFINED) ‘The Beauty Queen of Leenane’ by Martin McDonagh; Wednesday, 26th of March:

Glenamaddy Players, Co Galway (CONFINED) ‘CLASS’ by Iseult Golden & David Horan; Thursday, 27th of March: Clann Machua Drama, Co Mayo (CONFINED) ‘The Snapper’ by Roddy Doyle; Friday, 28th of March: Kilmeen Drama

Group, Co Cork (OPEN) ‘The Wasp’ by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm; Saturday, 29th of March: Ballyduff Drama Group, Co Waterford (OPEN) ‘The Blackwater Lightship’ by Colm Tόibín (adapted by David Horan). This year’s adjudicator is Paula Dempsey ADA. The shows will commence at 8 pm sharp each night, except the ﬁnal night where the show will start at 7.30 pm sharp.

Nightly tickets priced at €15 (+ booking fee) went on sale on Thursday, 6th of March. Please keep an eye on our social media for updates – ‘Glenamaddy Theatre Festival’ on both Instagram and Facebook.

Glenamaddy 61st Annual Theatre Festival 2025

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Upcoming seminars on attracting more women into politics

Roscommon County Council, in partnership with See Her Elected (SHE), has launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging greater female participation and engagement from diverse backgrounds in local government.

The campaign, which is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, seeks to empower individuals by increasing awareness of how local government works and how people can become actively involved.

Information seminars

Three information seminars will be held across the county, introducing participants to the workings of local government, the role of county councillors, and how citizens can engage with public participation networks (PPNs) and other committees. The free two-hour sessions will feature interactive discussions, video content, and a Q&A segment.

The first seminar takes place on Wednesday, March

A roadshow was held in Abbey Community College, Boyle earlier this week as part of this campaign. Pictured at the event were (left to right) Clare Noone (teacher), Cllr Leah Cull, Darragh Kelly (Communications Manager, Roscommon County Council), and Mairead O’Shea (Communications Manager with See Her Elected).

12th in the Council Chamber in Roscommon town at 10 am. A second session will be held in King House, Boyle, on Wednesday, March 26th at 10.30 am, while the final seminar is scheduled for the Athlone Springs Hotel, Monksland, on Tuesday, April 8th at 7.30 pm.

A free shuttle bus service will be available for each seminar, subject to demand.

School roadshow

In addition to the public seminars, a school roadshow will take place in four secondary schools across the county throughout March and April. Workshops will include interactive discussions, video content, and anonymous online engagement through Menti. com to encourage student participation.

Roscommon students take home STEMtacular awards

St Paul’s BNS in Castlerea are overall winners

On Thursday, February 27th, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim was transformed into a hub of innovation and excitement as over 500 primary school students gathered for the highly anticipated STEMtacular, which powered by Analog Devices, saw several students from Roscommon winning top awards! The event, a dynamic showcase of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, brought together schools from across Leitrim, Roscommon, Cavan, Longford, Sligo, Mayo, and Fermanagh.

Students from these regions presented their own STEM projects, tackling a wide range of intriguing questions. Each group was eager to explain their findings to a panel of esteemed judges from both industry and education, who engaged with the students, asking insightful questions and offering encouragement.

The event saw many winning students from Roscommon being awarded top prizes. The University of Limerick Best School award went to St Paul’s BNS (Castlerea, Co Roscommon). St Michael’s Special School (Castlerea, Roscommon) received AbbVie Special Class Awards, with award one going to the team of Thomas Adcock, James Burbridge, and Keelan Coyne, and award three

Roscommon-born nun marks

40 years of missionary work

A Roscommon-born nun is celebrating four decades of service in Brazil, where she has dedicated her life to supporting people living with HIV and AIDS.

Sr Margaret Hosty, originally from Cloonfad, Co Roscommon, moved to Brazil in 1985 with the Sisters of Saint Louis. In 1995, she co-founded the AAVE Group in Goiânia, an organisation offering support and advocacy for people affected by HIV and AIDS. Goiânia is located approximately 210 km southwest of Brasilia, the country’s capital.

“It’s hard to believe I’m 40 years in Brazil already,” Sr Margaret said, continuing: “I feel privileged and blessed to have worked here for so long. It’s been a challenge, but a challenge I’ve enjoyed. Living and working among the poor with HIV has contributed greatly to making me who I am today.”

Growing up in a family of 12, Sr Margaret knew from a young age that she wanted to work in Latin America. She left home in 1967 to join the Sisters of Saint Louis in California, where she later trained as a teacher.

When the opportunity arose to move to Brazil, she seized it, first teaching English and later working with washerwomen to establish a syndicate protecting their labour rights.

Her work in a parish on the outskirts of Goiânia led her to meet her first friend with AIDS: “I myself knew almost nothing about AIDS at the time.

“Seeing the discrimination my friend suffered, I realised that so many others were also ill-informed, leading to fear and stigma. After his death, I felt

I needed to do something about this, and that was how I got into working with and for people living with HIV and AIDS and founded the AAVE Group.”

The AAVE Group (which stands for AIDS, Assistance, Life, Hope) provides counselling, hospital and home visits, legal support, and vocational training to help people with HIV/AIDS become financially self-sufficient. The organisation also engages in community outreach, providing education on HIV prevention and encouraging early testing.

Funded by donations and grants, including support from Misean Cara, an Irish NGO backed by Irish Aid, the AAVE Group continues to provide crucial services. In recognition of her work, Sr Margaret received a Human Rights award from the State of Goiás in 2023.

Misean Cara is an Irish international development organisation made up of 77 missionary member groups working in over 50 countries. Misean Cara members work with some of the most vulnerable and excluded people around the world.

Reflecting on her journey, Sr Margaret said: “One thing I’ve learned from these people is that they have hope, they need hope, and they live in the present. As people with a serious illness, they don’t have the certainty of tomorrow. I think my work with people living with HIV/AIDS has helped me to live more in the present.”

A special ceremony was held last month at the AAVE Group Centre in Goiânia to mark the Sister’s 40 years of service in Brazil.

going to the team of Rachel Moran, Vanessa Piko, and Mariah Mongan. The Engineers Ireland ‘Engineering’ Award went to Clonown NS (Roscommon) for their project, ‘How do aeroplanes fly?’. The Expleo ‘Best Communicator’ award went to Ciara O’Neill of Clonown NS (Roscommon).

The event culminated in an awards ceremony, where students were recognised for their hard work and creativity. St Paul’s Castlerea emerged as the overall winning school, earning an exciting prize – a trip to the University of Limerick’s Chemistry Department, where they will get to engage in some fun science experiments at one of Ireland’s top institutions.

The University of Limerick Best School award went to St Paul’s BNS in Castlerea, Co Roscommon, at this year’s recent STEMtacular event.

Cloonfad, Co Roscommon native Sr Margaret Hosty is marking 40 years of missionary work in Brazil.

newsbriefs

Bridge club results

The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Mary and Pearse Mellett; 2nd: Kitty Dowd and Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; Gross: Tresina and Tommie Murphy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club –1st: Phil and Seamus Cooney; 2nd: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro; Gross: Chris and John McGrath. St Coman’s Bridge Club (Teresa Doyle Memorial) – 1st: Ann Flynn and Mary Dermody; 2nd: Geraldine Hoban and Maureen Fallon; Gross: Rita Roughneen and Josephine Devaney. (26th February) – 1st: Mary McDermott and Anne Kildu ; 2nd: Rita Roughneen and Josephine Devaney; Gross: Maria Hickey and Gertie Spillane. Ballymurry Bridge Club (Section A) –1st: Maria Delaney and Anne Mooney; 2nd: John O’Gara and George Bannon; Gross: Ann Shine and Kitty Gately. (Section B) – 1st: Marian Byrne and Paula Whyte; 2nd: Fiona Neilan and Kitty Blighe; Gross: Mary Law and Susan Farrell. Coffee morning in aid of Daffodil Day

To launch Da odil Day 2025 fundraising in Roscommon town, a co ee morning will take place in JJ Harlow’s, Roscommon Town, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm on Friday, March 7th. Your support would be much appreciated.

Athleague Indoor (& outdoor) Market

The next Athleague Indoor and Outdoor Market will be held on Sunday, 9th of March from 10 am to 3 pm at Athleague Community Centre. For more information contact 087 9136692.

Praying for peace and healing

Athleague, Co Roscommon

Dear Editor,

If readers google the Promises of Christ, given to Sister Mary Martha Chambon, they will nd a Treasury of Graces. In this Treasury of Graces you will nd eternal help for the Holy Souls, help for healing and help for conversions to the Catholic faith everywhere, and to stop wars in their tracks.

Yours faithfully, Chris O’Gara

Strokestown marks third anniversary of war in Ukraine with community ceremony

On Wednesday, February 26th, Strokestown Tidy Towns Association hosted a “poignant ceremony” to mark the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, inviting members of the local Ukrainian community to raise their national ﬂag on the community ﬂagpole.

Speaking at the event, Jonathan Cassidy, chair of Strokestown Tidy Towns, expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian residents for their contributions to the community since their arrival.

“In 2022 we held our annual Club and Community Clean Up Day.

The newest residents were out in force that day.

“It was fantastic to see kids from Strokestown United, Strokestown LGFA alongside their parents, genuine members of the community who actually care about the town and its approach roads working alongside our new neighbours.”

That clean-up effort saw over 80 people take part, followed by a barbecue with food generously donated by Cosgrove/McGuinness SuperValu and prepared by Philip Gordon of The Melting Pot. Tidy Towns treasurer Mark Chilvers commended the collaborative spirit of local sports clubs, stating: “80 hours work in an hour. It is hard to get that anywhere else. The soccer club and Strokestown LGFA

should be very proud of their members’ efforts.

“The epitome of a community is the upkeep of the facilities that we have for the future of our towns, villages and their hinterlands.”

Beverley Rodgers acknowledged the vital role of the Strokestown Women’s Shed and Green Hub Gardening Club in enhancing

the town’s green spaces: “Some of our committee admit to not knowing a weed from a butterﬂy so the knowledge that myself and Catherine bring is important from an understanding of what plants work well together, a bit like ourselves. We have a laugh and for a little bit of effort the results are very easy to see when you arrive in and leave Strokestown.”

The Ukrainian ﬂag-raising event was attended by members of the Strokestown Tidy Towns Association, including Jonathan Cassidy, Beverley Rodgers, and Eileen Beirne, alongside Olena, Sergi, and other members of the Ukrainian community who now call Strokestown home.

Is proud to be the ﬁrst law ﬁrm in Ireland to join the four-day working week

Last week Strokestown Tidy Towns Group Association a ceremony to mark the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, inviting members of the local Ukrainian community to raise their national ag on the community agpole. The event was attended by members of the Strokestown Tidy Towns Association, including Jonathan Cassidy, Beverley Rodgers, and Eileen Beirne, alongside Olena, Sergi, and other members of the Ukrainian community who now call Strokestown home.

Roscommon Town

‘Integrated Urban Strategy’ survey closing on March 7th

Roscommon County Council held a consultation event on Thursday, February 27th, at Gleeson’s Townhouse regarding the Roscommon Town Integrated Urban Strategy.

At this meeting, which was very well attended by the public, Roscommon County Council sought public input to shape the Integrated Urban Strategy. The public is also being asked to consider how a historic space could be used to address community or other town centre needs.

In January, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien announced this year’s THIRVE funding.

“I very much welcome the launch of the new €85m THRIVE call under the ERDF Regional Programmes.

“This funding gives local authorities the tools to bring Ireland’s heritage buildings into the 21st century, not only preserving and protecting these important heritage assets but

also ensuring their sustainable re-use for future generations.

“I look forward to seeing the regeneration beneﬁts that will arise out of this funding, which will strengthen the vibrancy of towns and cities throughout Ireland.”

THRIVE funding is available to support the redevelopment of historic properties owned by Roscommon County Council to assist in the future prosperity of Roscommon Town. The council has been asking the public to complete a questionnaire to determine which building should be selected – the former National Bank property on Abbey Street, or Edenville House (also known as Black’s House/former Roscommon Military Barracks) in Lisnamult.

The eleven-question survey is available for completion until March 7th. Those who wish to respond to the questionnaire can access it on the roscommoncoco.ie website.

Shape your future with Moate Business College

Are you looking to ﬁnd a pathway to the degree course you are interested in? Do you wish to change your career path? Moate Business College, one of the largest providers of further education in the Midlands, offers a variety of courses which will provide pathways to new career opportunities and give you access to degree programmes throughout Ireland and the UK. We can help you prepare for the future!

Offering fulltime courses in the areas of Business, IT, Media, Art, Sport, Healthcare, Childcare and Social Care, Moate Business College has over 30 years’ experience in providing quality education and training for students, supporting them in moving towards their chosen career. With affordable fees, Susi and other funding eligibility, ca-

reer guidance services and learning support, students can gain a quality education in a supportive learning environment, with all courses comprising an essential communications component. Programmes also include a professional development module or practical work placement, while selected students are also

Concerns raised over rehab unit’s omission from HSE capital plan

Local Fianna Fáil TD, Dr Martin Daly, has raised concerns in the Dáil over the exclusion of a long-promised rehabilitation unit at Roscommon University Hospital from the Health Service Executive (HSE) Capital Plan 2024, despite years of planning and commitment.

Deputy Daly highlighted the project’s omission during a parliamentary debate, stressing that a €7.8m investment for 20 dedicated rehabilitation beds was ﬁrst pledged in 2015. While the project advanced through design phases in recent years, it was notably absent from the latest capital plan.

“The people of RoscommonGalway deserve a transparent explanation as to why this critical infrastructure appears to have been mothballed,”

Deputy Daly said. He noted that the west of Ireland faces a signiﬁcant shortfall in neurorehabilitation beds, with availability varying widely across the country –from 6.4 beds per 100,000 people in some regions to 45 per 100,000 in others.

Daly argued that patients in the west are forced to seek specialist rehabilitation in Dublin, leading to delayed access, unsuitable care settings, and increased long-term dependency. Citing economic concerns, he said specialist rehabilitation has been proven to reduce costs over time, stating that early intervention recoups costs after only 16 months and is a “proven, evidence-based solution.”

In response, Minister of State at the Department of Health

Kieran O’Donnell (Fine Gael) conﬁrmed that the rehabilitation unit remains part of the updated spatial plan for 2024-25. He stated that infrastructure projects must undergo thorough review processes before being included in the capital investment programme.

O’Donnell outlined that a new spatial review of Roscommon University Hospital commenced in 2024 to assess site ward expansion, the replacement of existing facilities, and the possibility of locating a replacement acute adult mental health unit.

Deputy Daly remained sceptical, pointing to what he described as ongoing neglect of Roscommon University Hospital following the controversial 2011 reconﬁguration. While acknowledging the hospital’s success as a model 2 facility – with a well-utilised medical assessment unit, endoscopy services, and a minor injuries unit – he stressed that commitments made during reconﬁguration must be honoured.

given the opportunity to undertake a fully-funded 3-week placement in another EU country under the ERASMUS + programme. The college has an excellent reputation and longestablished links with third level colleges in Ireland and the UK, and our courses provide pathways to a wide range of degree programmes. Courses also give students the opportunity to gain meaningful employment in their chosen ﬁeld.

Moate Business College will host our Open Days on Thursday March 13th from 5pm to 8pm and Friday March 14th from 10am to 2pm, where the public may visit the college and speak to our staff. Please contact us on 090 6481178 or info@ moatebc.com for further information, or visit us on moatebusinesscollege.com

Edenville House, in Lisnamult, Roscommon town, is a protected structure which dates from 1702, when it was built as a Cavalry Barracks.

Fianna Fáil TD, Dr Martin Daly

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

My first visit to a barber in almost half a century wasn’t

as

hair-raising as I’d feared!

Our columnist Frank Brandon on visiting the barbers for a beard-trim for the first time in years, some important NCTrelated advice for motorists, and Creggs’ new digital storyMap…

It’s Thursday morning, and I have to admit that my nerves are at me as I head into Roscommon to have something done that I haven’t had done professionally for more than 40 (nearer to 50) years.

The thought of sitting in the big black chair with my head held back fills me with dread, and I wonder how I will be when the job is done. The last time I sat in such a chair I was a very young man still playing rugby and football on the respective fields of Connacht and Roscommon, and the recently-retired Paddy Joe was just on the start of his journey to become, like Carlsberg, probably the best (certainly the best-known) barber in the country, if not the world.

By now you will have figured that I wasn’t going to the dentist, but rather to a barber, because over the last half-century or so Carol took on the mantle as my barber, and more importantly, my beard regulator.

Now we always agreed that my hair could more or less grow wild, but my beard needed to be kept relatively tidy. And so last week, after my adult children told me I looked like a monkey – with so much facial hair that you couldn’t see my face (not a bad thing) – I gave in and went to town to get the offensive beard trimmed.

Jose Mourinho, the famous soccer manager, recently got into bother for claiming some members of an opposition bench were jumping up and down like monkeys, so I hope I have not insulted any of the primate (monkeys are primates) family by comparing myself to one of them.

Anyway, off I went, with no idea as to which of the many town barbers I would go to. I simply decided that I would go to the first one I would see, and was on my way to ask my son Mark for his advice when I spotted A1 Barbers and went in.

There was a middle-aged man getting his hair cut when I walked in, which gave me a good feeling about the place, and he was so happy with the finished product that I lost all my fears and nerves. Mind you, when the very friendly proprietor asked me to take off my glasses, I wondered if he didn’t want me to see what he was doing.

But I needn’t have worried – he did a wonderful job, took loads of time with me, treated me to hot towels on my face (which I only ever saw in movies), and left me with the nearest thing to a designer beard that I have ever had.

Sunny, a native of Pakistan, had worked in Sligo for a number of years before taking the huge step of opening his own very impressive barber shop five months ago, and he tells me that things are going very well for him. He opens seven days a week, and Sunday is a really busy day.

Now I know there are lots of barber shops in Roscommon and I have no doubt they are all very professional and equally good, but I have to say that my experience of A1 Barbers was very positive and I can only hugely recommend it. I will be back when next I look like a monkey

‘No cert, no cover’

As I looked up the phone number for the NCT centre to book a retest for my (mostly) trusty old Passat, I came across a post from a driver that I have to say surprised me. He was unlucky enough to have an accident, and then when he made a claim his insurance company refused to pay because he didn’t have a valid NCT cert.

To clear matters up in my own head I rang Axa, whom I am insured with, to find out what the story is, and they confirmed that you are not insured if your car has no NCT cert. I asked them if that meant you were not covered from the time your car actually fails the test, but they said you are covered to drive home, and you will be covered to drive back to the test centre on the day of your retest. You are not covered any other time, so the ridiculous situation is if you have to go to a garage (as you almost certainly will) to get things sorted, you are not covered. You simply cannot

drive your car except to bring it back to the test centre.

Oftentimes cars only fail the test on visuals, such as a missing bulb or something small, but according to Axa, it seems to make no difference what it fails for. It can be the most minor of things, but you are treated the same as if the car is falling apart and totally unroadworthy.

That seems unfair to me, and although it was said that Gardaí and insurance companies would take a more lenient look at things (mainly because people are experiencing long delays in getting dates for their tests), Axa were quite clear to me that “no cert, no cover” is the way it is.

I have to admit that I was unaware that that was the position, so in case other companies have different criteria, if you have an expired NCT cert, give your insurance company a ring – it might save you a lot of stress, and more importantly, money.

And finally…

Out here in Creggs, a new digital storyMap showcasing the heritage and history of the area will be launched at an event in the local National School on Friday, March 14th.

The event will feature material from the podcasts and films that were created as part of the digital storyMap as well as traditional music and song to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. There are three podcasts and two videos and it will be an opportunity to celebrate all who have contributed to the history and heritage of the area, and to introduce everyone to the 15 points of historical interest in the parish.

Two men who contributed greatly to the podcasts, Seamus Keane and Paddy Lohan, have sadly since passed away, and the event will celebrate their contributions to the podcast and the wider community on the night.

There is so much to write about regarding this event that my editor, Paul Healy, would have a seizure – so all I can say is get to the National School in Creggs at 8 pm on Friday, March 14th! Admission is free, and the areas of historical interest in the locality will be truly brought to life through the podcasts and short films. Don’t forget!

‘Til next week, Bye for now

Western Gaels GAA Club had a presentation night for their U-20 county title winning team in Farrell’s pub in Frenchpark. Pictured were Cathal Cregg and Eilish and Tom Freyne. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel are Ray Gilsenan (MD, Euro Accessories), recipient of the Overall Winner award, with his wife Niamh and son Dara. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured are the Taughmaconnell U-13 girls soccer team who were crowned Roscommon champions last Saturday following a 4-2 win over St John’s Athletic at Strokestown.

The price of speaking out – the unjust treatment of SA victims in Irish courts is systemic

Let’s talk about

The punishment of SA victims

In 2018, almost 400 women staged a march to Cork Courthouse, where underwear was symbolically laid on the court steps in protest over comments made during a rape trial that the teenage complainant’s choice of underwear – a lace thong – implied consent.

“Does the evidence out-rule the possibility that she was attracted to the defendant and was open to meeting someone and being with someone?”, the accused’s senior counsel, Elizabeth O’Connell, asked during closing arguments.

“You have to look at the way she was dressed. She was wearing a thong with a lace front.”

This scandal was among the most infamous incidents to occur in recent memory regarding the treatment of sexual abuse victims in Irish courts, and caused outcry across the country. Under the hashtag #ThisIsNotConsent, Irish women posted photographs of their underwear in all shapes, colours, and materials to protest the use of such techniques in court. Supporters gathered at the Spire in Dublin, where a ‘washing line’ was strung between lampposts displaying women’s underwear, with others also gathering in protest in Limerick, Galway, and Waterford. In a now famous moment, Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger brandished lacy underwear in the Dáil to raise awareness of the controversy.

“It might seem embarrassing to show a pair of thongs here in this incongruous setting”, she said at the time. “How do you think a rape victim or a woman feels at the incongruous setting of her underwear being shown in a court?”

There was a twofold argument being made in protest of the incident. Principally, the egregiously unjust way in which the underwear had been treated as implied consent; it should go without saying that a person’s clothing can never overwrite their consent, and hence justify their abuse. But the outcry also sought to highlight a more general problem within the Irish court system; the relentless and systemic shaming of victims of sexual assault, and disrespecting of the privacies they should be entitled to – an issue which has been criticised for effectively retraumatising the victims the courts are (supposedly) there to provide justice to.

Many think of this controversy in 2018 as being a watershed moment or turning point, however, while it indeed caused a significant spike in conversation and awareness, the truth of the matter is that subsequent victims have not been saved from similar experiences.

Just last week, a young woman who was

raped by her 62-year-old landlord described the showing of her underwear in court during the trial as being an “out of body experience.”

But beyond underwear, this shaming persists. In recent days, jurors in a rape trial taking place in the Central Criminal Court were shown video footage of a sexual encounter between the complainant and a man not on trial, in an attempt to evidence the defence’s claims that the complainant’s word was unreliable, and to imply promiscuity.

The complainant, who had taken issue with the footage being played and chosen not to be present in court for it, took to the witness stand to continue cross-examination afterwards.

Under questioning from the defence’s Padraig Dwyer, the complainant confirmed that she was saying that she had been raped by both the accused man and the second man seen in the video, which was taken on the same night.

“The reason I’m asking you about the second man is to show that your word is not reliable in relation to what is rape,” defence counsel said.

“There’s a big difference between the incident with the first man and the second man,” the woman replied. “One rape can be very different from another rape.”

The full picture when it comes to the systemic nature of victim blaming and shaming within Irish courts extends beyond these more publicised cases, but the patterns seen across them amount to a certain – if harrowing – indication of the overall situation.

Defence strategies frequently rely on discrediting the survivor’s character, focusing on their sexual history, appearance, or personal choices rather than the alleged actions of the accused. Survivors are often cross-examined in ways that leave them feeling violated once more, a process that can deter others from reporting sexual crimes altogether.

In addition to cultural attitudes, outdated legal structures continue to enable these practices at a systemic level. Calls for legislative reform have been made repeatedly, yet little has changed in practice, with there being perhaps no better example than the issue of victims’ counselling notes being used as evidence.

The admissibility of victims’ counselling records has been widely condemned for some time, further emboldened by the fact that those of the alleged perpetrator are not admissible. It is a particularly perverse invasion of privacy; to take the details shared in confidence to a professional about

a traumatic experience, and then make those details public in a courtroom and open them up to possible misrepresentation and manipulation by defence counsel.

Survivors who go through with the trial process are effectively being forced to evaluate whether the treatment of their mental health and trauma is worth the ‘risk’ of having this counselling experience used against them. The start of the year saw Susan Lynch, a woman who was raped by her former partner, say in her victim impact statement that she did not receive any counselling because she thought the notes from the sessions would be used against her; she is one of a countless many.

And yet, it was reported last month that a previous government commitment to ban outright the use of rape survivors’ counselling records as evidence is likely to be rolled back. With just a fraction of rape/assault cases being taken to court, and an even smaller fraction resulting in prosecutions, a substantial ‘justice gap’ already exists regarding the handling of sexual crime in Ireland. And the more we hear about how victims are allowed to be treated in court at a systemic level, the more it becomes evident that the barriers to justice extend far beyond social and cultural constraints, to the legal framework itself.

Alannah Ita Healy

in Irish courts

Rooskey company is overall winner in 2025 County Enterprise Awards

< EMMETT CORCORAN

National Enterprise Week began with a flourish in Roscommon on Monday, as the County Enterprise Awards took centre stage at the Hodson Bay Hotel. Hosted by Roscommon Local Enterprise Office (LEO), the event celebrated some of the county’s most innovative and ambitious businesses across various industries.

Winners were announced in four categories –Outstanding Contribution, Smart Business, Growth and Ambition, and One to Watch – alongside the coveted Overall Winner award.

In his address at the ceremony, CEO of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, commended the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in sustaining the local economy, praising Roscommon LEO for facilitating the creation of over 1,000 jobs in the sector.

“The businesses honoured here today epitomise the qualities of innovation, resilience, creativity, and ambition that are necessary to create employment and wealth for communities across the county,” Mr Tiernan said.

He acknowledged the current global challenges, including inflation and geopolitical uncertainty,

but expressed confidence in the county’s business community. “The spirit of entrepreneurship in Roscommon remains strong and enduring,” he added.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, noted that the awards, now in their 26th year, form part of a wider programme of events taking place throughout National Enterprise Week. Addressing those in attendance, he said: “Your businesses and those of similar business are the economic heartbeat of the county.”

Celebrating success

The title of Overall Winner at the 2025 County Enterprise Awards went to Euro Accessories Sales Ltd, based just outside Rooskey. Managing Director Ray Gilsenan accepted the award, accompanied by his family.

Speaking to the Roscommon People following the event, Mr Gilsenan credited the LEO’s support for his company’s growth, which started in his garage before expanding to a team of ten employees in Rooskey.

“We had an old Chinese machine and the production was quite slow,” he explained. However, with the assistance of the LEO, his production capacity

“tripled.”

The Ambition and Growth Award was presented to FarmLab Diagnostics, based in Elphin. Represented by John Gilmore and Dr Mikhail Nosov, the company specialises in the analysis of animal samples to

monitor disease and overall animal health. Since its foundation in 2012, the business has expanded significantly.

The award for Outstanding Contribution went to Patricia O’Flaherty of Naomh Padraig Handcrafts. Based in Cloonshee, Strokestown, Ms O’Flaherty previously worked with the Sliabh Bán Handcraft Co-Operative before establishing her own business 30 years ago. The handcraft business produces all manner of traditional Irish crafts and exports twothirds of its products to the USA.

The One to Watch Award was won by Healthy Bake Ltd, an artisan bakery founded by Timea Kovacs. The company, known for its ‘Best FREE FROM’ range, aims to make inclusive meals without compromising on quality.

“I absolutely love the support,” Ms Kovacs said of the LEO: “They are probably sick of me because I have been on for every kind of support they offer.”

The Smart Business Award was presented to Fergal Cormican of Cormican’s, a long-standing family business on Abbey Street in Roscommon Town.

Originally a school book supplier, the business has expanded over its 44-year history to include an extensive wholesale operation, an online store, and a range of arts, crafts, and office supplies.

As National Enterprise Week progresses, further events and workshops will highlight the support available to local businesses looking to grow and develop.

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel were all the category winners. Back, left to right: John Gilmore (FarmLab Diagnostics), Ray Gilsenan (Euro Accessories), Timea Kovacs (Healthy Bake), Dr Mikhail Nosov (FarmLab Diagnostics), and Fergal Cormican (Cormican’s Office, Art and School Supplies).

Front: Patricia O’Flaherty (Naomh Padraig Handcrafts). Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel were Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan and Cathaoirleach Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice with Dr Mikhail Nosov and John Gilmore of FarmLab Diagnostics, winner of the Ambition and Growth award. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel was Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan and Cathaoirleach Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice with Ray Gilsenan (MD, Euro Accessories), winner of the Overall Winner award, and his son Dara Gilsenan. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel were Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan and Cathaoirleach Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice with Timea Kovacs of Healthy Bake Ltd, winner of the One to Watch award. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards in the Hodson Bay Hotel were Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan and Cathaoirleach Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice with Fergal Cormican of Cormican’s Office, Art and School Supplies, winner of the Smart Business award. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at this week’s County Enterprise Awards are Roscommon County Council CEO Shane Tiernan and Cathaoirleach Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice with Patricia O’Flaherty of Naomh Padraig Handcrafts, winner of the Outstanding Contribution award. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Kerrane critical as Roscommon renters ‘hit with rent hike’

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon-Galway Claire Kerrane has criticised the Government for rising rents in County Roscommon, claiming that renters are paying the price for housing failures by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Her comments follow the latest Daft.ie report, which shows that rents in Roscommon have increased by 8 per cent over the past year, bringing the average rent to €1,361 per month.

Deputy Kerrane warned that renters are being forced into an unsustain-

able private rental sector due to a failure to deliver social and affordable housing. She also criticised government discussions “to allow landlords to hack up rents even further to attract institutional investment,” calling such a move “a disaster for renters.”

She added: “Renting has never been more expensive or insecure,” while urging immediate action to increase housing supply and prevent further rent hikes.

Kiltoom Community Alert extends votes of sympathy

Sympathy was extended to a number of individuals and families resident in the Kiltoom Parish catchment who had bereavements in recent months at the quarterly meeting of the Kiltoom Community Alert Group in the Parish Hall, Ballybay, on Monday night, February 10th last.

They were the Finneran family, Curnaseer, and the Warby family, Lisbane, on the death of Mrs Denise Collins, Rooskey, Bealnamullia; Martin Collins, Kiltoom, on the death of his mother Mrs Carmel Collins, Ballinasloe; the Hannon family, Gortacoosan, on the death of Mrs Antoinette Hannon; the Murray family, Lisbrock, on the death of Noel Murray; the Martin family, Curramore, on the death of Don Martin, Dublin; the Higgins family, Barrybeg, on the death of Joe Higgins; the Kelly family, Curnaseer, on the death of Mrs Bernadette Staroscik, Bochum, Germany; the extended Corcoran family on the death of John Corcoran, Ardmullen; Mrs Phyllis Killion, Upper Curramore, on the death of her sister Mrs Valerie Murtagh, McCormack Park, Athlone; Mrs Muriel Dolan, Ballybay, Kiltoom, on the death of her mother Mrs Elizabeth Price, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow and Ballybay; Mrs Teresa Hand Campbell, Lisbane, Kiltoom, on the death of her cousin Mrs Mary Margaret Burke, Boston; Joe and Nell Mannion, Lower Ardmullen, on the death of their son Derek; Mrs Carmel Nally, Ballybay, on the death of her brother Mickie Mullen, Bastion Street, Athlone; Mrs Lisa Murray, Purts, on the death of her mother Mrs Nora McGonagle, Wolfe Tone Terrace, Athlone; Mrs Fiona Connolly, Bogganfin and Mrs Karen Dempsey, Carrownderry, on the death of their father Paddy McLoughlin, Roscommon Road, Athlone; Mrs Maureen Kenny, Corroclough, on the death of her sister Mrs Frances Brogan, Navan; the Gleeson family, Barrymore, on the death of Mrs Cora O’Donoghue, Walderstown; the Killion family, Upper Curramore on the death of Ms Marie Killion; Mrs Caroline Curran, Carrick, Kiltoom, on the death of her brother Aidan Duffy, Collinstown; Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, Bogganfin, and Mrs Grainne Smith, Hodson Bay, on the death of Mrs Mary O’Rourke; the Butler and Derwin families on the death of Mrs Peggy Butler, The Berries; John Derwin, Curnaseer, Joe Finglass, Barrybeg and Mrs Marie Ryan, Curramore, on the death of their uncle Francis Derwin, Kenmare; the Mannion and Levy families, Hill of Berries, on the death of Noel Mannion, Baylough, and formerly of the Hill of Berries; Frank Harney, Hill of Berries, on the death of his brother Paddy Harney, Old Tuam Road, Monksland; the extended Morris family, Purts, on the death of Sean Boyne, Ballinea, Mullingar and the Barry family, Bogganfin, on the death of Sean Barry.

Western Gaels GAA Club had a presentation night for their U-20 county title winning team in Farrell’s pub in Frenchpark. Pictured were Liam McGarry, Nathan O’Connor, Cillian Harrington and Daniel Carney. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Claire Kerrane, Sinn Féin TD

Special

Microﬁnance Ireland loans to Roscommon farmers among lowest in region

EMMETT CORCORAN



Friday 14th March @ 11 a.m.

Fatstock Sale of Heifers

Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Monday 10th March @ 5 p.m.

Friday 21st March @ 11 a.m.

Fatstock Sale of Bullocks

Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

Bookings

Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes

Continues

Since the scheme began in 2013, Roscommon farmers have received some of the lowest levels of Microfinance Ireland (MFI) support in recent years, with just three loans approved, amounting to €52,499. The figures, released in response to a parliamentary question by Fianna Fáil TD Albert Dolan, highlight a significant regional disparity in the disbursement of funds to agricultural enterprises.

Neighbouring counties recorded higher allocations, with Galway receiving €193,500 across ten loans, while Mayo saw €241,300 distributed across 15 loans.

Leitrim had six loans totalling €105,999, and Sligo recorded €78,900 over the same number.

Longford farmers received the least support in the region, with a single loan amounting to €14,000. Since its inception, Microﬁnance Ireland has disbursed a total of €3.25m in loans to farmers, with

Castlerea MART WATCH

Large numbers of stock presented for sale on Thursday last. There was a large attendance of buyers present trying to source stock, which resulted in a very strong trade and an excellent clearance. Bullocks hit €2510, heifers peaked at €2440 while the weanling rings with exceptional demand witnessed bulls peak at €5.76 a kilo. Meanwhile, the heifer weanlings hit €5.92 a kilo.

Dry cows made up to €2660 while breeding stock made up to €2790. The calf ring reported an excellent clearance with excellent demand on o er as calf numbers continue to grow.

Sample prices

BULLOCKS: Lm 490kgs €2070 Lm 485kgs

€1980 Lm 460kgs €1870 Her 540kgs

€2250 Lm 525kgs €2100 Ch 500kgs

€2040 Ch 560kgs €2300 AA 555kgs €2010

Lm 645kgs €2510 Lm 640kgs €2500

AA 615kgs €2300 Ch 645kgs €2450 Lm 635kgs €2450.

HEIFERS: Lm 420kgs 41880 AA 395kgs

€1790 Ch 365kgs €1780 Ch 470kgs €2210

SA 435kgs €1890 Ch 670kgs €2440 Lm 560kgs €2370 Lm 550kgs €2300 AA 590kgs

per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.04 per kilo up to €3.96 per kilo. Dry cows ranged from an average of €3.04 per kilo up to €3.96 per kilo. Sample prices:

LMX -700KG -€2,770 -€3.96 per kg, LMX660KG- €2,580- €3.91 per kg, LMX -835KG€3,180- €3.81 per kg, LMX -655KG -€2,450€3.74 per kg, CHX-635KG- €2,280- €3.59 per kg, and AAX- 700KG- €2,120-€3.03 per kg.

Heifers ranged from an average of €3.81 per kilo up to €5.30 per kilo. Sample prices:

LM-660KG- €3,500- €5.30 per kg, LMX680KG- €3,380 - €4.97 per kg, BA-730KG€2,950- €4.04 per kg, LMX- 725KG- €2,920€4.03 per kg, CHX-710KG - €2,900 - €4.08 per kg, LMX-620KG - €2,860- €4.61 per kg, and LMX- 655KG - €2,740- €4.18 per kg. Weanlings There was a large entry of quality weanlings on o er at Tuesday evening’s show and sale of weanlings (March 4th) with a strong trade for bulls and heifers. Class 1 was Best Weanling Bull, and Class 2 was

dairy enterprises receiving the highest share at €642,749. Other cattle enterprises received 28 loans totalling €455,900.

Mixed farming operations were also well supported, securing €344,000 across 21 loans. At the lower end, just one loan of €15,000 was granted to pig farming, with a similar amount allocated to tree fruit and nut farming.

MFI provides ﬁnancial assistance to small enterprises unable to secure loans from commercial banks,

€2290 Ch 525kgs €2240 AA 495kgs €1960. DRY COWS: Lm 475kgs €1500 Ch 470kgs €1470 Lm 715kgs €2660 Lm 800kgs €2640 Ch 770kgs €2590 Lm 740kgs €2590 Ch 770kgs €2590 SA 790kgs €2430. Cows with calves at foot made up to €2790. Springers made from €1350 to €1380. CALVES/RUNNERS: Calves made from €40 to €390 with excellent demand especially for the well presented stock. Runners made from €380 to €1150 for continental lots.

WEANLING BULLS: Lm 295kgs €1540 Ch 295kgs €1540 Ch 260kgs €1500 Ch 250kgs €1260 Ch 425kgs €1810 Lm 360kgs €1550 Ch 325kgs €1580 Lm 385kgs €1680 Ch 440kgs €2120 Lm 405kgs 1790. WEANLING HEIFERS: Ch 275kgs €1630 Ch 260kgs €1350 Ch 220kgs €1270 Ch 250kgs €1270 AA 280kgs €1170 Ch 340kgs €1770 Lm 310kgs €1510 Lm 305kgs €1360 Lm 355kgs €1780 Ch 315kgs €1660.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursdays with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am with three rings in operation.

Best Weanling Heifer. The next sale takes place on Tuesday, March 18th, at 4 pm.

Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €4.27 per kilo up to €5.62 per kilo. Heifer weanlings made from an average of €4.00 per kilo up to €4.97. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active. Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €4.27 per kilo up to €5.62 per kilo. Sample prices: BBX- 315KG -€1,770 -€5.62 per kg, CH- 835KG- €3,420- €4.10 per kg, CH - 720KG€2,780- €3.86 per kg, LMX- 520KG- €2,530€4.87 per kg, LMX- 480KG- €2,460- €5.13 per kg, and CHX- 485KG- €2,450- €5.05 per kg.

Sheep

There was a small number of sheep on o er at the weekly sale of hoggets and stag ewes on Wednesday, March 5th. Prices for hoggets made up to €212 while stag ewes topped out at €260. There was also a good entry of ewes in lamb, making up to €350, while ewes with lambs made €410. The next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, March 12th. 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

with loan limits increasing from €25,000 to €50,000 in September 2024.

Then-Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke noted that 78 percent of all microenterprise loans approved in 2023 were for businesses outside Dublin.

He says the scheme remains a key funding source for rural and agricultural enterprises, particularly in sectors struggling with access to traditional credit.

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

FORTHCOMING SALES: MONDAY 24th MARCH: BULLOCK SALE

PLEASE NOTE AS AND FROM MONDAY 24TH MARCH BULLOCK SALE WILL RESUME ON MONDAYS. •

Roscommon MART WATCH

Kerrane raises downgrading of ambulance cover

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane raised the “further downgrading” of ambulance cover in Roscommon in the Dáil on Wednesday, describing it as “unacceptable”.

Speaking having secured a debate on this issue, Kerrane said: “The ambulance service in Roscommon is being downgraded.

“It started with the use of a paramedic on the advanced paramedic roster despite a commitment for a rapid response vehicle with 24/7 advanced paramedic cover in Roscommon following the closure of the A&E.

“Now the latest is the removal of the rapid response vehicle on Thursdays, which removes this viral emergency service once a week in Roscommon. I want the 24/7 roster restored at Roscommon and this needs to be done urgently.

“We are seeing the downgrading of the emergency ambulance service, where we have no A&E and we are further away from our next nearest A&E. We are also still without the same access to the air ambulance when the majority of calls for it come from County Roscommon. It was due to return in January, it is now March and we are still waiting.”

In response, the minister advised that options for filling the two vacancies are being examined.

newsbriefs

Celebrating St Patrick’s weekend in Glenamaddy

Glenamaddy will be celebrating St Patrick’s bank holiday weekend with a parade on Sunday, 16th of March from 2 pm. All are welcome to participate. There will be cash prizes on the day. There will be live music on the street and also in local pubs. All are welcome. More details in next week’s Roscommon People.

Celebrating World Day of Prayer in Lanesboro

A service celebrating World Day of Prayer will be held in St John’s Church of Ireland, Lanesboro on Friday, 7th of March at 7.30 pm.

World Day of Prayer is an international, ecumenical organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers.

The Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer in native languages travels throughout the world — through Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas – before finishing in American Samoa some 38 hours later. It truly is a worldwide wave of prayer.

Lough Ree RNLI Table quiz

This coming Thursday night (6th of March) Lough Ree RNLI hosts its annual Table Quiz in The Bounty at Buccaneers RFC, Athlone. Tables of four cost €40 and the quiz begins at 8 pm. This event was postponed due to inclement weather earlier in the year and public support for the fundraiser would be most welcome.

Over €2.5m for greenways and travel projects in Roscommon

Roscommon County Council is set to receive over €2.5m in funding for greenway and active travel initiatives.

The allocation, announced by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, will support multiple projects designed to enhance connectivity and promote active travel throughout the region.

News of the funding has been welcomed locally by Deputy Frank Feighan and Cllr Liam Callaghan.

Under the national scheme, Roscommon Co Council has been granted €2,295,000. This includes €500,000 for the Athlone to Lanesborough greenway, €400,000 for the Lough Key to Carrickon-Shannon greenway, and €300,000 for the Lough Ree greenway.

Additionally, nearly €1.5m will fund active travel improvements in villages bypassed by the N5, benefiting local

pedestrians and cyclists. These developments are part of a broader effort to link major tourist destinations across Ireland through greenways.

The funding announcement has been welcomed by local representatives.

Deputy Frank Feighan highlighted the €400,000

allocated to the Lough Key to Carrick-on-Shannon greenway, a project poised to bolster both transport links and tourism. Feighan noted that this investment will help advance the greenway, which promises to connect Lough Key, Carrick-on-Shannon, and Boyle town.

A second public consultation on the Lough Ree Greenway will take place on Tuesday, March 11th, from 3 pm to 8 pm at the Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone, where route options will be presented, and public feedback sought.

Niall Morrissey, Senior Executive Engineer with

Roscommon Co Council, encouraged participation, stating, “We are seeking to continue engagement at the public consultation, and I urge everybody with an interest to attend.”

Feedback forms are due by April 2nd, 2025, with more details available at www.loughreegreenway.ie

Creggs celebrates St Patrick’s weekend with digital storyMap launch

A new digital storymap showcasing the history and heritage of the Creggs area will be launched at an event in Creggs NS on Friday evening, March 14th, at 8 pm.

The event will feature material from the podcasts and films created as part of the digital storymap, as well as traditional music and song to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

The creation of the digital storymap was made possible through funding from the Heritage Council Community Grants Scheme and support from Galway County Council Heritage Office and Heritage Officer Marie Mannion.

The project was overseen by Zena Hoctor, who also worked on the Creggs Heritage Audit launched in 2018. Christy Cunniffe was also involved in the Heritage Audit in 2018 and features on two of the videos, one on the Streetscape of the Village and the other on Ironworks in the Creggs Area. The third video focuses on biodiversity in the Creggs area and the great work that is ongoing in the village and surrounding areas in this regard.

Three podcasts were recorded on a Sunday morning in June 2024. One explores the connection between Parnell and Creggs, and an-

Comans swimmers impress at home gala

What a performance from the Comans Aqua Sprint Team, who put on a spectacular show in their home gala against Trident. The team’s energy, determination, and sportsmanship were on full display, making for an unforgettable competition.

A huge thank you to all our swimmers, coaches, and supporters for their incredible effort and enthusiasm. Every race was packed with excitement, and we couldn’t be prouder of how our team performed. Keep up the fantastic work, Comans. Let’s keep pushing forward and making waves!

CIARA EXCELS

A huge congratulations to Comans Club swimmer Ciara Lally, who has been selected for the U-15 Connacht Water Polo Team and played at the Interpros at the NAC.

Ciara’s hard work, dedication, and swimming skills have truly paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder of her achievement. Keep up the amazing work, Ciara!

other looks at the epic march of Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beare and how he and his band of followers came across Mount Mary in the winter of 1603. The third podcast featured a ‘Kilbegnet Rambling House’, which brought together some stories and reminiscences of the Kilbegnet area.

Sadly, two of those who contributed on that Sunday morning last year, Seamus Keane and Paddy Lohan, have since passed on to their eternal reward, and their contributions to the podcast and to the wider community will also be remembered and celebrated on the night.

The Comans Aqua Sprint Team put on a spectacular show in their home gala against Trident.

Rossies meet up in Manchester… pictured enjoying the corporate facilities at the Devils Bar in Old Trafford on the occasion of the recent Manchester United v Ipswich game were Damian McGreevy, Noel D. Walsh and Conor McGreevy, all from Ballaghaderreen.

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Let the drama begin… 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival starts on Friday

The 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival was launched recently in Áras an Chontae by the LeasCathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Larry Brennan. The festival will run at Roscommon Arts Centre from this Friday, March 7th to 15th. A large crowd was in attendance for the festival launch and to see the presentation of prizes in the children’s short story writing competition. This has attracted entrants from all the 5th and 6th class primary schools in the area, with the standard going from strength to strength over the years. Children were invited to write a short story based on any one of the following plays in the programme: The Wasp, Woman and Scarecrow, The Beacon, and A Whistle in the Dark. (Full coverage of the children’s short story writing competition in our next issue).

In her opening address, Mairead Nally (chairperson of the festival) welcomed the Leas-Cathaoirleach, his fellow councillors, members of the press and the parents, teachers, and children present. She extended a very special welcome to the winners of the short story competition, their families, and teachers.

“You have enormous talent and we are delighted to be able to acknowledge that here tonight”, she told the children, who were welcomed as “special guests” at the event.

“Our festival”, Mairead said, “was re-established in 2007 and has gone from strength to strength since then.”

She also acknowledged the governing body of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland who gave invaluable support to drama festivals throughout the country.

The chairperson noted that the groups participating came from all over the country and this, she said, “was testimony to the popularity of our festival on the circuit and a reward for all the hard work done by everyone involved”.

“No doubt”, she noted, “these performances will provide us with a feast of drama, which will touch on all of our emotions in the course of the eight

nights.”

Mairead went on to thank the venues who provided the festival clubs, and all the businesses who support the festival through sponsorship and advertising. She thanked the County Council Chief Executive Officer Mr Shane Tiernan and the staff of

the County Council – in particular Sean Carty and Siobhan Regan – who helped to organise and host the event.

Thanks were also extended to Declan Molloy of Molloy’s Bakery and Fine Foods for providing the refreshments and to Cormican’s, who sponsored the

story writing competition. A special word of thanks was extended to Catherine Lee and the dedicated staff of the Arts Centre who “played a big part in the success of the drama festival.” The local media was also thanked.

Let the drama begin!

St Nathy’s does it again: Harvard comes to Ballaghaderreen!

Get ready for a dazzling transformation as St Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen, becomes the illustrious halls of Harvard University!

The transition year cast of 2024/25 are all set to take to the stage with the original musical ‘Illegally Blonde’, directed and produced by Peter McLoughlin. Adding extra sparkle to the production are the choir under the baton of music teacher Olivia Stack, while the creative dancing is the brainchild of choreographer Emma Coleman.

Although entertainment is the order of the day, there are a few life lessons to be learned along the way, with this modern story addressing the timeless themes of love, friendship, racism, self-discovery and teamwork.

The story follows the glamorous and ever-optimistic Elle Woods, whose world seems picture-perfect… until her boyfriend, Warner Blake IV, abruptly dumps her to focus on his future at Harvard with his new love Vivienne. Heartbroken but determined, Elle makes a bold move: she follows her friend Meagan Davis to Harvard, aiming to win Warner back. But can she

prove she is more than just a blonde Beverly Hills fashion queen? Does she have the brains, drive, and resilience to succeed in the Ivy League – and even outshine Warner himself?

There is only one way to find out! Grab your ticket to Harvard and join Elle’s journey at St Nathy’s College from Thursday, March 13th, to Saturday, March 15th.

Principal Fr Martin Henry praises the show as a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the transition year students: “Transition year in St Nathy’s is all about teamwork, and these students have really worked as a team from building and painting the set to accessing props and costumes effectively building on the success of last year’s production, ‘Mama Mia, Papa Mia!’.”

The curtain rises at 8 pm sharp each night, with tickets available at the school office, Imelda Towey’s, and online at stnathys.com.

Do not miss this unforgettable night of music, comedy, colour, cheeky dancing, song, and showstopping performances!

Members of the cast pictured at St Nathy’s gates.

Roscommon Drama Festival Committee members pictured with Cllr Larry Brennan, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council and Cllr Sean Moylan at the launch last week of this year’s Roscommon Drama Festival. Back row, left to right: Caroline Egan, Bernie Maher, Tom Costello, Jimmy Hoban, Cllr Sean Moylan, Joe Nally, Marie McCrann. Front row (l to r) Mary Finn, Cllr Larry Brennan (Leas-Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), Mairead Nally (Chairperson, Roscommon Drama Festival), Deirdre Kelly, Canon Eugene McLoughlin, and Brigeen Fitzmaurice. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

ENTERTAINMENT Culture&ARTS

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This year’s line-up at Roscommon Drama Festival

On opening night (Friday, March 7th), Roscommon Drama Festival will welcome Kilmeen Drama Group from Cork with their presentation of ‘The Wasp’ by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm. This play has been described as a gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller.

Saturday night (March 8th) sees the Brodan Players from Leixlip on stage with ‘Little Gem’ by Elaine Murphy. In this play, three generations of Dublin women narrate several months of emotional turmoil that they have experienced.

Night three (Sunday, March 9th) will feature Newtownstewart Theatre Company from Tyrone with ‘The Remains of Maisie Duggan’ by Carmel Winters – described as a “captivating exploration of intimate family turmoil”.

On Monday, March 10th, the festival welcomes St Patrick’s Drama Group from Westport with their interpretation of ‘Woman and Scarecrow’ by well-known Irish dramatist Marina Carr – described as “potent, bittersweet and darkly funny”.

On Tuesday, March 11th, the Cornmill Theatre from Carrigallen,

Co Leitrim showcases ‘A Whistle in the Dark’ by Tom Murphy, which is set in Coventry among a brawling, hard-drinking gang of Irish immigrants. The play has been described as “one that will haunt you long after you leave the theatre.”

There is no play on Wednesday, March 12th, but Thursday, the 13th sees Corofin’s Dramatic Society on stage with Conor McPherson’s ‘The Weir’. This is a “haunting play that will take the audience to an otherworldly dimension.”

On Friday, March 14th, Bunclody/Kilmyshall Drama Group take to the stage with ‘The Beacon’ by Nancy Harris. This play about prying into the past will “leave some people searching for a light and others avoiding its glare”.

Finally, Saturday, March 15th sees the return of Kilmuckridge Drama group from Wexford with ‘Juno and the Paycock’ by Sean O’Casey. Set in Dublin during the traumatic period of the Irish Civil War, it has been described as “a mesmerising mix of comedy and tragedy”.

In his address at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival, Cllr Larry Brennan, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Council, began by acknowledging the support of Roscommon County Council’s Arts Officer Rhona McGrath and Tourism Officer Lisa Joy, who “with their colleagues, do wonderful work to promote and nurture local arts.”

Cllr Brennan went on to say that Roscommon Drama festival is a leading fixture on the country’s amateur drama circuit: “It attracts the cream of talent in both the open and confined sections. This is further testimony to the tireless efforts of groups who really love performing and staging top quality drama.

“What is wonderful about a festival of this nature is the sense of vibrancy and excitement it brings to the town. This is so visible in our pubs, restaurants and other retail outlets who are supported by the large influx of people to our county town during the festival.”

Cllr Brennan noted that the festival showcased “not just classic performances”, but also supported new emerging playwrights and dramatic societies.

“Classic work by Tuam’s Tom Murphy and younger playwrights like Conor McPherson compete for the audience’s attention along with performances such as Sean O’Casey’s ‘Juno and the Paycock’.”

Cllr Brennan commended the service provided by Catherine Lee and the staff of the “wonderful” Arts Centre who do their utmost to promote all forms of the arts. He noted the inclusion of the Vincent Mahon Memorial award

in the festival, which he said “honours a man who left an immense legacy in drama”.

“I have no doubt”, Cllr Brennan concluded, “that the festival will provide us with the tonic we need. I wish the committee every success, with full houses, great drama, and groups who are willing to ‘break a leg’ each night.”

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival at Áras an Chontae were committee members Mairead Nally (chairperson), Tom Costello, Brigeen Fitzmaurice, and Caroline Egan. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival at Áras an Chontae were Lana and Qona Cox. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival at Áras an Chontae were Martina, Róisin, and Tony Carlos. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival at Áras an Chontae were Catherine Lee (Manager, Roscommon Arts Centre), and Mairead Nally (Chairperson, Roscommon Drama Festival). Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the recent launch of the 2025 Roscommon Drama Festival at Áras an Chontae were Cllr Larry Brennan (Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council) and Bernie Maher. Photo: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Farm Machinery AUCTION

Also leasing with the benefit of:

4 bay Back to back slatted shed incorporating 3 service passages, 1 no. drystock shed, cattle crush and pen, yard and silage slab, private pump water supply, ESB on site CCTV Camera system in sheds, I grain storage cabinet unit Suggested Term: 5

selection of tools

‘Unmissable’ farm machinery auction in Fourmilehouse on Saturday, March 5th

Farmers, contractors, and machinery enthusiasts –mark your calendars for an unmissable auction event taking place on Saturday, March 15th, at 12 pm at Michael Earley’s farm, Rathconnor, Fourmilehouse, Co Roscommon (F42HC65).

This highly anticipated auction, hosted by RE/MAX Team Earley, will feature a wide range of quality farm machinery, equipment, and tools, with viewing available

from 10.30 am on the day of the sale.

Among the stand-out lots, the highlight of the auction will be a 1991 Ford tractor with loader, a highly soughtafter machine that is sure to generate keen interest.

Also going under the hammer are an 8ft mower, 12ft livestock trailer, 8ft livestock trailer, Tuffmac trailer, rainbow tipper trailer, and a selection of essential farm implements, including a fer-

tiliser spreader, dung spreader, chain harrow, and quad sprayer.

In addition to farm machinery, the auction will offer topquality tools and equipment, including a Mosa diesel generator, Milwaukee impact gun, Stihl consaw, and a tractor power washer.

Whether you are looking to upgrade your equipment or secure a great deal, this auction provides an excellent opportunity to invest in reliable

machinery and tools.

Don’t miss out! This is a fantastic chance to acquire quality farm equipment at competitive prices. Whether you’re an experienced farmer or a machinery enthusiast, there’s something for everyone at this auction.

For further details, contact Remax Team Earley on 090 66 26579, or auctioneer Keith on 086 0848590 today. Remax Team Earley look forward to seeing you there!

Classifieds

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TOO

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 ALCOHOLICS

FENCING/GATES

FOR HIRE

< FOR HIRE: Tractor and Low Loader. Bales etc. Reasonable rates. Tel. 087 2929365.

FOR SALE/FARMING

< FOR SALE: Round Bales of hay, small quantity. Knockcroghery area. TEL 087 2385378.

< FOR SALE: 140 bales of Silage, bale lifter, topper, roller, sprayer, hay lifter, calving jack, 2 calf taggers, dehorner and 4 x 8 ft. troughs. Tel 087 4219596.

< FOR SALE: 2004 Kia Rio Car 1.4L. 130,000 km. Very easy on petrol. Silver Metallic in colour. Price –€400. Tel 089 4145833.

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PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Fionnuala and Seán McGuinness, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission for:

(A) Construction of 1 new single storey domestic dwelling, WWTS to EPA CoP 2021 EN 12566-3 with tertiary treatment system, (B) new site entrance, construction of new entrance piers, roadside drainage, (C) construction of new domestic garage & all other site works as required to my site at Cloonfad, Leitrim Village, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the oﬃces of the Planning Authority during the public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, 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.

Signed: Vincent Durkin (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie ; Architectural Design & Engineering solutions. Tel: 086 83 72 933

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

1 am seeking planning permission on behalf of Patrick Donoghue concerning a housing development in Monksland, Athlone. The original planning permission for the development was granted under planning permission PD/19/348. Some variations to the original planning permission were approved under PD/21/455 Now permission is being sought to retain the following developments :-

(A) To retain and complete the construction of a pair of four bed semi-detached houses (Type B) instead of the pair of three bed semi detached houses (TypeA) granted under PD/19/348 and amended under PD/21/455. The relevant houses are houses 41 & 42

(B) To retain and complete the construction of a block of four terraced houses (namely houses 43/44/45/ 45A) instead of the block of three terraced houses (Type C ) granted under PD/19/348 and amended under PD/21/455 (Houses 43/44/45) The new houses to be constructed as three bedroom houses.

The site is located at Lus na Greine, Monksland Athlone, Co Roscommon.

This application may be inspected or purchased at the planning oﬃce of Roscommon County Council, County Hall, ,Roscommon. during it’s oﬃce hours -Monday to Friday. . A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing, on the payment of €20.00, within 5 weeks of receipt of the application by the planning authority. Such submissions / observations will be considered by the planning authority in making their decision on the application. The planning may grant the application with or without conditions or it may refuse the grant the application . Signed: Mark Fahy & Associates, Consulting Engineers, Quarry Road, Menlo, Galway. Tel: 091 760034.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Ursula and Jonathan Canavan, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing dwelling house and domestic sheds, to construct new replacement house and domestic garage, to install upgraded treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Castlesampson, Bealnamulla, Athlone, Co Roscommon, N37 C3K6. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces 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 C982. Ph: 090 6634365. Mob: 085 1299470. E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie; Web: www.jlce.ie; Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

THANKSGIVINGS

FINANCIAL BLESSINGS PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL, ST. GABRIEL AND ST. RAPHAEL

Light 3 white candles on a white plate and put sugar all around it.

Place a glass of Water next to it. Ask the archangels for 3 wishes: one for business, one for impossible and one for love. Do this petition for three days.

On the third day publish this prayer.

Prayer: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael, please be with me today.

Please hear and answer my prayers with your divine grace, intervention, and kindness, love you all, please help me so that my prayer requests all come true quickly, Amen. Mention your request here. Heavenly Father, you have given us archangels to assist us during our pilgrimage on earth. Saint

Michael is our protector, ask him to come to my aid, ght for all my loved ones, and protect us from danger. Saint Gabriel is a messenger for the Good News, I ask him to help me clearly hear your voice and to teach me the truth.

Saint Raphael is the healing angel, I ask him to take my need for healing and that of everyone I know, lift it up to your throne of grace and deliver back to us the gift of recovery. Help us

O Lord to realize more fully the reality of the archangels and their desire to serve us. Holy Angels pray for us. Amen Thank you for answering my prayers.

A.K

NOVENA TO ST. RITA, SAINT OF THE IMPOSSIBLE

O powerful St. Rita, rightly called Saint of the Impossible, I come to you with con dence in my great need. You know well my trials, for you yourself were many times burdened in this life. Come to my help, speak for me, pray with me, intercede on my behalf before the Father. A.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. A.K

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask you for this special favour. (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. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossibe. S.C.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

K.McL.

UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY

Design Consultation Planning Applications

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info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

NOVENA TO ST. RITA, SAINT OF THE IMPOSSIBLE

O powerful St. Rita, rightly called Saint of the Impossible, come to you with con dence in my great need. You know well my trials, for you yourself were many times burdened in this life. Come to my help, speak for me, pray with me, intercede on my behalf before the Father. J.B.E.

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE for urgent need...

Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want and ask him to nd a way to get it to you. May I receive your blessings and favours. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh owers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also place an ad in the newspaper thanking Saint Expedite, so that his name and fame will grow.

J.B.E.

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. Mira¬cles 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 sym¬pathy, 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. M.H.

FINANCIAL BLESSINGS PRAYER TO

ST. MICHAEL, ST. GABRIEL AND ST. RAPHAEL

FAMILYNOTICES

Roscommon Town 20th Anniversary occurs on the 9th of February

In memory of a Cockney taken before his time,

From The Tea-Caddies and The Monday Night Club.

CLOGHER Pat

Ballyglass, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

WALSH

Colette & Joe

Hyde Court, Roscommon. (5th & 3rd Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Colette who passed away 26th March, 2020 and Joe who passed away 12th March 2022. R.I.P.

Your lives were one of thoughtful deeds, a helping hand to others needs. Sincere and true in hearts and minds, wonderful memories you both have left behind. Your lives touched so many others, and will be remembered forever more, to leave the world a better place, than it had been before.

- With love from all of your family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 15th March at 10 am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

CUNNINGHAM

Maura Galey, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

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.

Mira¬cles 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 sym¬pathy, 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. F.H.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

THREE DAY

MIRACLE PRAYER TO OUR LADY

Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me you are my Mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity. P.S.

Light 3 white candles on a white plate and put sugar all around it. Place a glass of Water next to it. Ask the archangels for 3 wishes: one for business, one for impossible and one for love. Do this petition for three days. On the third day publish this prayer. Prayer: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael, please be with me today. Please hear and answer my prayers with your divine grace, intervention, and kindness, I love you all, please help me so that my prayer requests all come true quickly, Amen. Mention your request here. Heavenly Father, you have given us archangels to assist us during our pilgrimage on earth. Saint Michael is our protector, ask him to come to my aid, ght for all my loved ones, and protect us from danger. Saint Gabriel is a messenger for the Good News, ask him to help me clearly hear your voice and to teach me the truth. Saint Raphael is the healing angel, I ask him to take my need for healing and that of everyone I know, lift it up to your throne of grace and deliver back to us the gift of recovery. Help us O Lord to realize more fully the reality of the archangels and their desire to serve us. Holy Angels pray for us. Amen

Thank you for answering my prayers.

J.B.E.

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 o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

You were a loving husband and friend, so good and true. A better husband never lived, your equals are but few. Sadly missed by his loving wife Peg.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 9th March in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan at 10 am.

CARROLL

John

Buckﬁeld, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. (19th Anniversary)

A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for someone special in God’s care. Will those who think of him today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Fondly remembered by his wife Annie, sisters-in-law Margaret and Kathleen, brother-in-law Paddy. Mass will be o ered at a later date.

Send your Family Notices to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

In loving memory of Maura who died on 3rd March 2023 May she Rest In Peace.

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, still very dear.

Loved and sadly missed by her son Tommy, daughter-in-law Carmel and extended family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 7th March at 7pm.

CONNAUGHTON

Michael Curagh, Castlecoote (15th Anniversary)

We think of you with love each day, the things we used to do and say that brings a smile, sometimes a tear but always a wish that you were here.

Always remembered by Anne Mae, Kay, Marie, Sean and extended family.

MANN Ken

GROGAN

Ger-Michael

Who passed away on the 10th March 2002

R.I.P. (23rd Anniversary)

Twenty three years, seems a mighty long time, since you went away. Really its only like yesterday.

Will those who think of Ger-Michael today, a little prayer to Jesus and Mary say. Forever in our hearts and minds from his parents, brother, sister, sister-in law, nephews, niece, aunts, uncles, relatives and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 8th March at 10am.

CARTY Eileen

(3rd Anniversary)

Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Co. Longford.

Eileen, quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget. No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Loved and always missed, Mike, Ena and family.

CHAMBERLAIN

George

St. Brendan’s, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who passed away 6th February 2025

The family of the late George Chamberlain wish to express their appreciation for your kind thoughts and expressions of sympathy.

To all our relatives, neighbours and friends who called to the house offering help and support, those who brought refreshments and those who visited George in Portiuncula Hospital, University Hospital Galway and St. Francis Nursing Home, Kilkerrin, sincere thanks.

To those who attended the Funeral, sent Mass Cards and left messages of condolence on R.I.P.ie, thank you.

Thank you to Fr. Louis and Fr. Doug for the lovely Mass and Bernie Moran for the beautiful music.

To Mattie and all the staff of St. Francis Nursing Home, Kilkerrin for providing George with the most excellent care and attention we are forever grateful.

A special word of thanks to Creggs RFC who remembered George in their meetings. The staff and pupils of Ballaghlea N.S. who held a beautiful and touching guard of honour. Sincere thanks.

Thank you to David Moran, Funeral Director, for your compassion, guidance and support. Thank you to the gravediggers who did such a wonderful job with George’s final resting place.

George’s Month’s Mind will be celebrated on Tuesday 11st March in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm

KENNY (née Gavigan)

Rita

Stonepark, Roscommon Who died on 18th March 2024

On the 1st Anniversary of Rita’s passing, Frank and family, Paraic, Mary, Coman and Bríd and grandchildren Karl and Anna, along with brother Joe Gavigan would like to thank all those who helped us in so many ways.

Our thanks to those who called to express their sympathy and share with us all the good deeds she did in life.

We thank those who attended her Wake and Removal from Smyth’s Funeral home.

A special thanks to the medical care people who called and provided medical assistance.

To her fellow members of The Legion of Mary and the Apostolic Workers we extend our thanks.

Our thanks go to Fr. Kevin Fallon, Fr. Raul Cino to Deacon Willie Gaquin and Fr. Michael Shortall.

We thank our wonderful neighbours who were so helpful and consoling.

Thanks to Pat Smyth and the Smyth’s Funeral Home team, along with the gravediggers.

There is no way of putting into words what all of this means to us as a family.

We now know, and feel, how truly good people can be.

Rita’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Sunday 16th of March at 11:30 am.

RIDLEY

Julia

Srah, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Who joined the Angels on Saturday 18th January 2025

We, the family, Julia’s dad John, her sisters Kristen and Sara and her brother Paul, together with the extended Ridley family, would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who sympathised with us on our recent heartbreaking loss. We wish to thank our wonderful relatives, friends and neighbours who called to our home, brought food, telephoned, sent messages of sympathy, sent sympathy cards, made a donation and left condolences on RIP.ie

We wish to sincerely thank all those who attended Julia’s removal and Funeral Mass. A special thank you to those who travelled long distances, including from abroad to attend her Funeral.

A special thank you to the staff, past and present, of the Brothers of Charity Services Castlerea and Roscommon for taking such care of Julia throughout her life. Also to the health care staff of the Primary Care Centres, Castlerea and Roscommon who looked after Julia’s needs.

Also to the staff of Sligo University Hospital who cared for Julia in her last days and the ambulance staff who brought Julia to hospital.

To Fr. Ray Milton for his kind words, understanding, prayers and for celebrating such a lovely and meaningful Mass for Julia. You brought us great comfort.

We will be forever grateful to Dave, Noel and the Knockcroghery Church Choir, of whom Julia often joined for Mass, for the beautiful singing and music that made Julia’s Mass so special. You were wonderful. Thank you to Susan for the beautiful booklets for the Mass

A heartfelt word of thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth and John Smyth, your help, kindness, attention to detail and professionalism will never be forgotten.

Also to the staff of Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan for all of your help and kindness.

A special thank you to the ladies who prepared the Community Centre, Knockcroghery and helped to serve all who joined us following Julia’s Mass, your help was greatly appreciated.

Thanks also to Lauren and the staff of Nana Ann’s, Knockcroghery for the beautiful food provided after Julia’s Mass.

Thank you also to the men who organised traffic management.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone who helped us individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Loving you was easy

We do it every day

Missing you is a head ache That never goes away

Loved and missed every day by your heartbroken family.

Julia’s Months Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 8th March at 11am in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

HYNES

Vincent

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

Lorraine, family and extended family of Vincent wish to express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support, kindness and generosity shown by family, friends and neighbours on our sad loss.

A sincere thank you to all who sent Mass Cards, messages of condolence and those who brought food to our home.

Above all thank you to those who travelled long distances to be with us, visited our home, attended the Reposing and joined us for the Funeral and Burial. Your presence and support meant more that words can express.

Also sincere thanks to Fr. Julian for a beautiful Mass and prayers at our home. A special word of thanks to the staff in I.C.U. Portiuncla Hospital for their care and kindness to Vincent and also the Kitchen staff who treated us as a family to refreshments and for their patience.

To. Niall Flanagan Funeral Undertaker for your compassion and professionalism. Thank you to the gravediggers Gerard, Tommy and E.J. who prepared Vincent’s final resting place with such care. Thank you to Damian Garvey and staff and to Eileen Flynn Catering for the lovely food.

A particular big thank you to each and everyone that carried out farming duties during, after and since Vincent’s passing.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all.

Vincent’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in Ballymoe Church on Sunday 9th March 2025 at 10 am.

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

KELLY

Anthony (Tony)

Palmers Green, London and formerly of Crouch End, London and Ballyforan, Roscommon

Who died peacefully on 9th February 2025, aged 94, at the Nazareth House Care Home in East Finchley in the company of his loving family.

Tony will be fondly remembered by his beloved wife, Lucy, their children, grand children, great grand children, relatives, neighbours and friends.

The Funeral Mass will take place at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, Palmers Green on Monday 10th March at 11.30am, followed by Burial at 1pm at New Southgate Cemetery.

MULLEN (née O’Rourke)

Mary (May)

Rathbrennan, Roscommon.

As we lovingly remember May on her Month’s Mind Mass, we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the kindness, support and sympathy on May’s passing.

To everybody who sent Mass and sympathy cards and who left condolences on RIP.ie, those who attended Mass and the graveyard, and people who travelled long distances for the Funeral ceremony.

Thank you to Fr. Raul C.C. for the consoling words and touching ceremony.

The beautiful hymns and music by Aileen O’Connor.

Pat and Gillian Smyth and John Smyth, Smyth’s Funeral Directors, for the care and respect shown throughout the Funeral.

Thank you to the Abbey Hotel and sta for their hospitality.

To those who helped in any way, your contributions made the loss more bearable.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept our deepest gratitude.

May’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 9th March at 11.30am.

Send your Family Notices to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

M cCARTHY Noreen

Cloghan, Mount Talbot Co. Roscommon. In loving memory of Noreen McCarthy who passed away on 8th March 2024 (1st Anniversary)

Those we love don’t go away

They walk beside us everyday Unseen, unheard but always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear

From your loving son Joe, Therese, grandchildren and great grandchild.

------ oOo ------

In loving memory of Noreen McCarthy

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.

From your loving son Mike, Elenor, grandchildren and great grandchildren

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 9th March at 11am in Tisrara Church.

NOLAN (née Greally)

Bernie Cloonlyon, Ballygar. (1st Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a dear wife and mother, who died on 7th March 2024

A loving nature, a heart of gold, The very best this world could hold. Never selﬁsh, always kind. These are the memories you left behind.

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

Deeply missed by your husband Michael, son Peter, daughter Sinéad, son-in-law Shane and granddaughter Isla.

------ oOo ------

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

Sadly missed by your brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 8th March at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church Ballygar.

MULLEN

Mary Castlestrange, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon. (26th Anniversary)

Just a prayer from those who loved you, just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you. We have loved her in life let us not forget her in death.

Sadly missed by her husband Frank, Rebecca, Kieran, Fiona and families.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 8th March at 10 am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

SHALLY

Paddy (James)

Tonlagee Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Paddy who passed away on 06th March 2022. (3rd Anniversary)

Special memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way, have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of Paddy today a little prayer to Jesus say.

BURKE

Ultan

Pollalaher, Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Though your smile is gone forever and your hands we cannot touch, still we have so many memories of the one we loved so much

The memories are our keepsakes with which we’ll never part. God has you in His keeping and we have you in our hearts.

Sadly missed by your wife, Bernadette and family, Sandra, Colm, Ruadhán and Seoidín, Nicola, Dermot, Róise, Neasa and Diarmuid, Alan, Ruth, Eibhlín and Iarlaith.

Anniversary Mass for Ultan will be o ered in St. Bridget’s Church, Curraghboy, on Friday, 14th March, 2025 at 7.00 pm

NEARY

Willie & Una Grange, Four Mile House.

(30th Anniversary)

(7th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear parents Una who died on 6th March, 2018 and Willie who died on 15th June 1995

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by his loving wife Mary, family and grandchildren.

We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain. To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. So Rest in Peace dear loved ones, and thanks for all you’ve done. May God grant you the place, you have truly won.

Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House on Sunday, 09th March at 11am.

Always remembered and sadly missed by their loving family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House on Friday, 2nd May at 7pm.

BRENDAN DOOLIN Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Mobile: 086 8115928

REPAIRS

GARDENING: Lawns mowed

Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding

Excellent quality

Phone: 083 0684011

• Boiler Servicing

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• Call for FREE QUOTATION

Contact Luke on 085 7359120

Tullys

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

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

● HSE Trained and Approved ● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

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

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle

Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

Physical Therapy

CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you?

Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009

Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com

1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902 GROUND WORKS

● Landscaping

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

(Monday - Saturday) Tel: 087 2982214

• Addiction counselling for substance and behavioural addictions

• Online and in person therapy

• Abstinence and harm reduction approaches

• Relapse Prevention

• Mental Health assessment and rst aid

• Mental Health interventions and education

• Anxiety and stress management

• Supportive psychotherapy Call John 087 2239095 Email - wynnejoh@gmail.com @reiteach_counselling

Paving & Kerbing

LIFE COACHING

CAROLINE BURKE CAREER & LIFE Coaching 086 8229606

www.carolineburke.ie

CAREER COACHING:

* CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS

* APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC/CIVIL and PRIVATE SECTOR COMPETENCY BASED APP FORMS

* INTERVIEW MASTERING (including competency-based questions)

* EDUCATION & PERSONAL COACHING

For more details check www.carolineburke.ie For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com

(FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)

TAR & CHIPPINGS

GreenFrame is an o site construction company that designs, manufactures, and installs light gauge steel frame structures for use in residential and commercial projects throughout Ireland and the UK.

Due to continued growth, we have the following vacancies based in Ballyforan, Co. Galway.

Experienced Quantity Surveyor

Senior Design/BIM Coordinator

BIM/CAD Technician

To join an innovative and fast-growing company contact us on 091 790340 or send your cv to careers@GreenFrame.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Anthony McGowan, intend to apply for Retention Permission and Permission for the following; Retention Permission is sought to retain an existing walled grain store as constructed. Permission is sought for the construction of a new underground slatted tank, along with all other ancillary site works. At: Corramagrine Townland, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a speci c 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.

Thompson Butler Steel Ltd

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon T: +353 94 9860187 www.thompsonbutlersteel.ie

We’re Hiring

Be part of something bigger—help communities in County Roscommon thrive with volunteering at their heart! We champion volunteering across the county, connect communities, organisations, and we support people in nding meaningful ways to give back.

At RVC, we are a passionate and innovative team that fosters a supportive work environment where every team member is important. We value our team as much as we value our volunteers! Enjoy 24 days of annual leave, (pro-rata) plus a bonus day o for your birthday—because your special day should be celebrated. Join us and make a di erence!

We have two exciting positions available in our team.

VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT OFFICER

PERMANENT, PART-TIME MON-WED 21 HOURS PER WEEK

EVENTS CO-ORDINATOR

FIXED TERM, FULL-TIME MON-FRI 37 HOURS PER WEEK

YOU WILL

• use your creativity to run engaging social media campaigns that inspire people to volunteer

• bring enthusiasm for the community sector by helping connect people with opportunities that make a real di erence

• have strong IT skills, experience in MS O ce

• be a positive, adaptable and approachable team player and

• have strong communication skills with a good eye for detail.

APPLICATIONS

Excited to be part of our team? Send your CV and cover letter, clearly outlining the position you are applying for to manager@volunteerroscommon.ie by 12 noon, Wednesday 19th March. Interviews will be held on Thursday 27th March. Full job description on www.volunteerroscommon.ie

CLEANER REQUIRED for an elderly gent in South Roscommon. Monday to Friday, 2 hours a day. Meal prep, cleaning duties and bringing gentleman to appointments in Roscommon Town. References required. Call 086 1940861, after 4.30 pm.

company with a good employment record, seeking a person with a D1 Driving Licence and to do some manual work. Good weekly wage. Phone: 086 2437376

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Play-off win for Creggs Seconds

Creggs Seconds travelled to Monivea last Sunday for the first game in the J1B league bottom 4 round-robin playoffs and came away with a hard-earned 19-13 victory.

With the Creggs J1A team getting a welcome break from competitive action, some members of that squad were eligible to play in this vital game, and they contributed handsomely to the win.

Callum Fahey put the visitors ahead with a 9th minute penalty, and he extended the Creggs lead to 6-0 when Monivea were penalised on the half hour mark, after a period of sustained pressure inside their 22.

Creggs were awarded a penalty try in the 35th minute when Mattie Curley was held up illegally near the try-line before Monivea broke downfield and almost scored on the resumption of play as Creggs momentarily switched off. However, staunch defence kept Creggs 13-0 ahead at half-time.

Monivea scored a try in the opening minute of the second half when their full-back Kevin Maher found a gap up the right touchline and touched down in the corner as Creggs were once again caught off guard. Boosted by this score, Monivea struck again shortly afterwards with a well-worked try following a clever chip over the Creggs defence.

A successful close-range penalty by Callum Fahey left Creggs ahead by 16-10 before a great break by Mark Kilcommons led to another opportunity for the sure-footed Fahey to nudge his side nine points ahead.

With tension mounting and errors increasing, Creggs conceded a penalty with a high tackle to leave just six points between the sides heading into the closing stages. Monivea threw everything into attack but Creggs held firm to deny them any potential late match-winning chances.

The entire Creggs squad performed very well on the day, with the bench making a significant contribution. A similar display will be needed against Ballyhaunis on Sunday next in Creggs in the second of the play-off games.

SENIOR WOMEN’S TEAM: The Creggs senior women’s team’s season came to an end on Sunday when they lost away to Sligo RFC in the semifinal of the Women’s Senior Cup.

After a very strong first 20 minutes when the scrum was on top and Creggs were held up just short on a couple of occasions, a breakaway score from Sligo seemed to knock the stuffing out of the Creggs ladies. Hard as they tried they never got their rhythm in attack and Sligo scored again just before halftime to take a 10-0 lead into the break.

Playing with the wind in the second half, Creggs had some cause for optimism but again mistakes proved costly and halted any momentum.

Sligo got in for a score to lead 15-0 with over 25 minutes remaining.

Creggs continued to try their best but even positional changes just couldn’t provide sufficient spark on the day and Sligo ran in two further tries to win 250.

After an excellent league campaign, the Creggs ladies can look back favourably on the season after coming on so much from when they started last year.

U-16 BOYS: Creggs U-16 boys travelled to Athlone to take on Buccaneers in a rearranged round 1 game of the U-16 Cup last Saturday.

A poor start saw Creggs under pressure and a Buccaneers centre evaded three tackles to score in the corner. Creggs regained composure and after a couple of decent moves they gained a foothold in the opposition 22. Unfortunately, an intercept allowed the home side to get upfield and good hands from their backs saw their winger score under the posts. The conversion left the score at Creggs 0 Buccs 12 after just 12 minutes.

Creggs got more territory and better possession up until half-time but couldn’t break through a quick and aggressive Buccaneers defence leaving the half-time score at 12-0.

The second half saw the Creggs players express themselves better but a series of strong carries close to the Creggs line saw the hosts extend their lead by another seven.

Creggs continued to play good rugby and were rewarded after a good maul led to Conor Flynn crossing the line.

Harry Waldron added the conversion to narrow the gap. The game was still alive but Buccs ensured they would see out the win with another try scored after good play from their strong pack.

Final score: Creggs 7 Buccaneers 24.

Creggs RFC would like to wish Cathal Mulry well after he picked up a knee injury just before half-time. Thanks to those from both clubs who helped Cathal at the time. Next week they play Castlebar in round 2.

Panel: Cathal Mulry, Matthew Donnelly, Conor Hanson, Oisin Connolly, Andrej Anic, Kian Hughes, Joseph McSharry, Robbie McArdle, Sean Richardson, Harry Waldron, Sam Walsh, Domink Mrozek, Conor Flynn, Luke Hayes, Brian O’Connor, Callum Clarke, AJ Tully, Davy Fetherstone, Patrick Conneally, Patrick Zwierkcyz, Patrick Murray, Jamie Finneran. U-13 BOYS: Creggs U-13 boys had their second game in the group stages of the cup last Saturday when they hosted Corinthians.

The visitors couldn’t have asked for a better start when they crossed over the line for an easily converted try to lead 7-0 after three minutes. The Creggs

lads didn’t let that start faze them and they got right back into the game. It was tighthead prop Rian Davis who carried strongly to cross for five points. Unfortunately Rian had to go off with a bruised shoulder not long after.

Rian’s replacement Kyle Maloney was awarded a penalty try when he was illegally stopped short of the line. The score at half-time was 14-12 to Corinthians. As much as Creggs tried in the second half, they couldn’t add to their tally. A bigger, more athletic Corinthians squad added three tries to win the game 35-12.

Despite the scoreline the Creggs boys never gave up and showed great character and discipline. Next game up is away to Dunmore this weekend (7/8th of March).

BLITZ: Creggs hosted the 2025 U-11s Connacht Festival last Saturday. There were 16 teams from 13 clubs across the province with about 250 children

partaking in the event.

The kids really enjoyed meeting our special guest, Connacht player Santiago Cordero who gave some words of wisdom and indeed Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins who was also in attendance.

LOTTO: There was no winner of last week’s Creggs Lotto which now stands at €4,500. The lucky dip winner was Anita Fannon. Please support Creggs Lotto. This week’s bonus prize are tickets to the Connacht v Cardiff URC game with the following week’s lucky dip prize being tickets for the sold out Connacht v Munster game in MacHale Park.

To be in with a chance of winning while also supporting the club, please contact any Creggs committee member for details on how to enter the draw or please check www.creggsrugby.ie or any of our social media channels for further details.

The Creggs senior women’s team.

The Creggs U-16 boys.

The Creggs U-13 boys.

Creggs hosted the 2025 U-11s Connacht festival last Saturday. The kids really enjoyed meeting special guest, Connacht player Santiago Cordero who gave some words of wisdom. Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins was also in attendance.

Costello pipped on final hole after scintillating run in Spain

< SEAMUS DUKE

Young Roscommon Town star Olivia Costello produced the best golf of her career to date to qualify for the final of the Women’s Spanish Amateur Championship last week at the Real Club de Golf El Prat, Barcelona.

However there was heartbreak for the Roscommon golfer in the decider against Nagore Martinez Salcedo of Spain when she was beaten on the very last green having been 3 up with 12 holes played.

Competing against the top players in Europe, Olivia played some scintillating golf throughout the week. After a gruelling week of competitive action in which she played no less than nine rounds she has shown that she

can compete with and indeed beat the best.

Olivia finished in the top ten after two days of qualifying on the Tuesday and Wednesday, with the top 64 players going on to match play.

On Thursday the Roscommon Golf Club member eased through her first round match against Carmen Gonzalez Garcia of Spain, winning 4&3.

On Friday she won two matches, against Italian Alemendra Campoverde Martin, and England’s Charlotte Naughton, thus qualifying for the quarter-finals.

On Saturday in a tight match Olivia came through (1 up) against Louise Uma Landgraf of France. Then in the semi-final she played her best golf of the week as she defeated another French player, Sara Brentcheneff

(4&3). Costello was four under after seven holes in that match.

In the final Olivia got off to a great start. She was 3 up after 9 and 3 up again after 12, but her Spanish opponent, Nagore Martinez Salcedo won the 13th, 14th and 16th holes to draw level. On the final hole the home player hit a wonder shot into three feet for a birdie to close out the victory by the narrowest of margins.

For Olivia it was a heartbreaking way to lose but when the dust settles she can reflect on further evidence that she is able to mix it with the best players in Europe. When you consider that she is only 16 years old it shows what talent she has. Securing a major victory would appear to be only a matter of time. A very bright future awaits.

Jeremy O’Connor Longford Arms Hotel Stages Rally 2025

A festival of motorsport was held in Longford over last weekend. The Jeremy O’Connor Longford Arms Hotel Stages Rally 2025 was called after the late Jeremy O’Connor, of Gallowstown, Roscommon, a popular rally enthusiast who is greatly missed.

The rally started on Saturday evening with an autograph signing with Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy. Josh and Eoin, who compete in the World Rally Championship, were a huge attraction for all the many young rally fans that attended rally HQ in the Longford Arms.

The action started in earnest on Sunday morning, when the cars left St Mel’s College car park and took to the stages around Co Longford. Many drivers reported very slippery condition, but overall the stages were drying out.

Josh McErlean, who was running first on the road, took an early lead if only by the narrowest of margins to Matt Edwards from Wales in a Hyundai R2. Josh Moffett and Keith Moriarty were lying in third place with local favourite Shane Quinn, who was competing for the first time in a Fiesta R2 with Stephen Reynolds calling the notes. Unfortunately this was the last stage Shane would see as he did not make it to stage 4 due to engine problems. Another local, Tommy Doyle, who was competing in a Hyundai R2 suffered a similar fate following a promising start in his local rally.

As the roads cleared of surface debris from the early runs through the stages, it was clear there the outcome would go right down to the wire with Josh McErlean and Matt Edwards swopping the lead from stage 7, 8, and 9, when Matt had a .03 second lead going into the final stage. But Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy did enough on the final stage to

regain the lead, taking the win by .05 second.

Midland Motor Club member Paul Rowley, who travelled from the USA to compete in his home event, was delighted with his run finishing in 26th position overall. Other midland crews that finished well were Keelan Grogan from Carrick-

on-Shannon who ended the day in 40th place and second in class. Stephen Faughnan from Longford with Patrick Brides on the notes were happy with their second place finish in class 13 in a Mk 2 Escort. Colin Flanagan from Boyle, Roscommon, finished third in class in his Evo 9 while Enda and

Liam McCormack, who travelled from the USA to compete, had a good run in their Fiesta R2. Ronan Quinn and Kevin Heffernan from Moydow had a consistent run all day in their Mk 2 Escort, while Mick McCormack and Sean McCaffrey from Co Roscommon finished third in class in their Focus. Declan and Shane Hagan from Drumlish had a fine run and won class ten in their Escort. Sean Og Cahill and Liam Hughes moved to a Twincam for the rally while Stephen and Niall Healy, also in a Corolla, finished one place behind. Enda Gerety and Eoin Kenny finished in their Honda Civic while Eamon and Sean Brady finished in a Civic. Brother and sister duo Darragh and Marie Kelly from Roscommon had a good run in their Civic. Amy Faughnan and Jane Collins, who were out for the first time, won the ladies award after an eventful rally. Booby Cooper and Elaine Ni She had car problems from stage four, but managed to finish the event.

Seniors relegated, but U-20s in hunt for title

Buccaneers suffered a demoralising defeat when losing 35-19 to Banbridge in their Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A game at Dubarry Park on Saturday. Although trailing narrowly by two points in an evenly contested affair, the Pirates were given a real opportunity to secure their first victory of the campaign when Banbridge had a player sent off with 12 minutes remaining. Yet it was the Co Down team who added to their tally in the final furlong, notching a brace of converted tries to secure a bonus point win whilst leaving the home side disappointingly empty-handed yet again. Defeat means Buccaneers will ply their trade in

Division 2B next season.

U-20s: Buccaneers and Blackrock College served up a cracking contest in their JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 ‘Super Six Group One’ clash at Dubarry Park on Sunday when Buccs came out on top 33-28 in a thriller. In doing so, the Pirates have put themselves in pole position to claim the title whilst they also retained the Ray McLoughlin Cup.

at Trinity’s grounds at Santry, Dublin, with a 3 pm kick-off.

SECONDS: Buccaneers Seconds were well and truly outgunned by Dunmore when the teams met in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1A League at Dunmore on Sunday with the Co Galway side prevailing by 68-5.

and led by 19 points to no score at the break thanks to a hat-trick of tries from Will Browne. Final scoreline was Buccaneers 48 Ballina 0. Well done to the squad and coaches. Next up is an away trip to Ballinrobe in a few weeks.

recorded a 35-12 friendly win over Newbridge.

U-18 GIRLS: Corinthians got the better of Buccaneers U-18 girls in the Connacht Cup, winning 27-15 despite great determination shown by our girls.

U-17s: Buccaneers got off to a flying start in their Bank of Ireland Connacht U-17 Cup match against a strong Sligo side at busy Dubarry Park on Sunday, with our lads winning 35-24.

The prime fixture this weekend is Buccaneers’ joust with Dublin University in a rearranged JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 game on Sunday. This vital match for Buccs, who are in contention for the title, takes place

U-16s: On Saturday Buccaneers opened their Connacht U-16 cup campaign against neighbours Creggs who had held the upperhand in recent meetings.

On this occasion Buccaneers won 24-7.

Creggs boys U-14s.

U-14s: Buccaneers U-14 boys hosted a spirited Ballina side in their third group match of the Connacht Cup on Sunday.

The home side dominated the first half

U-13s: Buccaneers U-13s lost 19-5 at Ballinasloe. The lads played really well and the scoreboard at the end didn’t reflect how tightly matched it was.

Cillian Coughlan scored Buccs’ try.

U-18.5s: Buccaneers U-18.5 side

MINIS: On Saturday, our U-11 boys took part in the Connacht Blitz held at Creggs RFC, showing great skill and teamwork! Meanwhile, our U-12 girls proudly represented the club at the Connacht v Benetton half-time show. What a proud moment! And while that was happening, our U-9s had a funfilled trip, heading to the Aviva Stadium to watch Leinster v Cardiff. Future rugby stars in the making!

Finalists Olivia Costello (right) and Nagore Martinez Salcedo (left). (Credit: RFE Golf)

Winners Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy pictured alongside Vincent Collins (Deputy Clerk of the Course) and Lara Furey (National Rally Championships) following the Jeremy O’Connor Longford Arms Hotel Stages Rally last weekend. Pic: Barry Molloy

Colin Flanagan from Boyle finished third in class in his Evo 9 at the Jeremy O’Connor Longford Arms Hotel Stages Rally last weekend. Pic: Barry Molloy

All eyes on Cheltenham next week

Horses for Courses

Starting on Tuesday is the world’s greatest national hunt racing festival, especially in the eyes of national hunt followers in Ireland.

For four days every March, the normally silent hills of the Cotswolds will ring out with a cacophony of cheers, song, and some (but very few) tears. The festival opens with seventeen entries, only two British runners, in Supreme Novice Hurdle, honouring the late Micheal O’Sullivan. Willie Mullins trains odds-on favourite Kopek Des Bordes at 8/11 followed by Gordon Elliott’s Romeo Coolio, his stablemate Salvator Mundi and Dan Skelton’s The New Lion.

I fancy Romeo Coolio to give Jack Kennedy a winning start to the festival in a race with a good record for Irish runners.

In the Arkle 9 go to post and Marjborough at 8/13 looks a good thing to get JP McManus off the ground in what should be a double for Mullins.

There are 49 still in the Ultima Handicap chase where they go 8/1 the field and this is best left alone. Nicky Richards’ Famous Bridge, in the Trevor Hemmings green and white quarters will have an e/w chance. There are fifteen in the Mares Hurdle where Mullins has the market leaders in Jade De Grugy and Lossiemouth. Nicky Henderson’s Joyeuse has been supplemented at a cost of £4,800 and JP McManus’s horse must be considered.

I opt for Lossiemouth (who is also in the Champion Hurdle) if she runs here. If not, Joyeuse. Home side is best represented by Jeremy Scott’s Golden Ace and Joyeuse.

In the big race of the day, odds-on Constitution Hill at 4/6 heads the 8-runner field with the rest headed by 3 Irish trained horses. Gordon Elliott’s Brighterdaysahead, who is missing

the Mares to run here, looks the main danger at 2/1 with the WP Mullins’ trained pair Lossimouth who is still in the Mares, 11/2, and State Man, 10/1 also to be considered.

In a race with four of the best horses around taking each other on, Constitution Hill will have to be at his very best to repel the Irish challenge the best of which looks to be Elliott’s charge, who could give Jack Kennedy a dream return to the saddle.

The Juvenile Handicap Hurdle has still 47 left in, 22 Irish trained, and is another to stick a pin in the paper. I like the look of Joseph O’Brien’s Beyond Your Dreams if he runs.

There are 29 in the National Hunt Challenge Cup for amateur riders, 11 Irish. Cromwell runs Now Is The Hour, the favourite. An Irish trained outsider with a chance is 14/1 shot Sa Majeste trained by Mullins for McManus.

My e/w Yankee selection for opening Tuesday is Romeo Coolio, Famous Bridge, Golden Ace, and Sa Majeste.

On Wednesday, there are 52 in the opening Turners Novices Hurdle.

Dan Skelton’s The New Lion is 15/8 favourite, and the only home trained horse in the betting under 14/1 with four Irish trained horses behind him, three trained by Mullins and one by Elliott. The New Lion to break Ireland’s stranglehold on this race.

Of the 23 entries in the Brown Advisory Novice Chase thirteen are trained in Ireland with seven of the leading the betting headed by WP Mullins’ Ballyburn at 13/8, with stablemate Dancing City 7/2, 8/1 bar.

Paul Townend’s selection to win.

This race is followed by the Coral Cup, a handicap hurdle, with 96 entries, 46 trained in Ireland, and with only 26 runners, this is normally best left alone.

Dan Skelton’s Be Aware heads the betting at 7/1 from Clouston’s Kopeck

De Mee at 8/1 12/1 bar two. Kopeck to win for owner JP McManus but an Irish outsider that catches the eye if he gets a run is Lorna Fowler’s Colonel Mustard who never runs a bad race.

The Glenfarclas Cross Country handicap Chase has 30 entries, 15 Irish trained but there are only 16 runners allowed. Gordon Elliott runs Galvin but the Gavin Cromwell’s Stumptown having won a handicap over the course in November is seeking a four-timer and should win here.

In this year’s Queen Mother Champion Chase with 19 entered, 12 from Ireland, Nicky Henderson’s Jonbon is one of JP McManus’s hot pots at 5/6 with 5/1 bar. He will get plenty to do from Barry Connell’s Marine Nationale and Mullins’ Energumene. Joseph O’Brien’s Banbridge, on his King George run, has a great e/w chance at 20/1. The Grand Annual Chase has 46 entries, limited to 20 runners, and is wide open, and the advice is to leave this race alone. Evan Williams’ outsider Dr T J Eckleberg who is a big price and rarely runs a bad race, is a live chance if he gets in.

There are 33 entered in the Wetherby’s Champion Bumper, 18 of them Irish trained with WP Mullins having 8 and Elliott 5. With 7 of the Irish horses unbeaten there should be an Irish winner of this race again, but maybe not either of the big 2.

Gavin Cromwell, a very successful raider to Britain this season, has Champagne Jury, a winner at Nass in January and had a warm-up race over hurdles where he finished second to the odds-on Honesty Policy at Leopardstown earlier this month. Keep an eye out for top Irish amateurs riding on the card for British trainers; they would have been booked well in advance.

My e/w Yankee selection for

Wednesday is Kopeck De Mee, Jonbon, Dr TJ Eckleburg and Champagne Jury.

Here’s wishing all you punters a successful week. There will be a detailed look at next Thursday and Friday’s racing in next week’s edition when all fields will be finalised before assessment unlike this week.

Upcoming meetings

Racing takes place this afternoon (Thursday) at Thurles, with first race at 2.30 pm. Tomorrow evening there is flat racing on the all-weather at Dundalk, away at 4.55 pm.

On Saturday, Irish racing takes place at Gowran Park featuring the Shamrock Handicap Chase and Tetratema Cup Hunters Chase for point-to-pointers, with first race at 2.10 pm. On Sunday, racing will be at the punters graveyard Naas where the card is sponsored by Bar One Racing featuring the Leinster National, a handicap worth €100,000, off at 2.10 pm.

Racing review

At Navan last Saturday, the Grade 3 Flyingbolt Novice Chase was won by the Willie Mullins trained and Paul Townend ridden Champ Kiely at oddson. No such luck for the connections

with El Fabiolo, 4/11, who was beaten by 50/1 shot Senecia in the Grade 2 Webster Cup Chase.

Racing news

Watch out for the Gilligan family from Craughwell in Co Galway, as four members of the family could be in action at the festival.

Trainer Paul sends over three horses and sons Danny, Jack, and Ollie could have rides in Cheltenham.

Danny is one of Gordon Elliott’s jockeys, Jack will ride his father’s horses, and Ollie, a young amateur claimer, could ride his father’s horse Tradonthebay in the bumper. A fourth brother Liam trains point-to-pointers at home in Craughwell. Paul trained a festival winner with his first festival runner in 2017 when Bertie’s Dream won the Albert Bartlett, ridden by Andrew Lynch.

Gabriel Leenders’ French trained Gold Tweet will not run at the Cheltenham Festival next week.

The 8-Y-O was a surprise winner of the Cleeve Hurdle on Festival Trials day in 2023 and finished 8th in the Stayers’ Hurdle at the Festival. He was in three races, the Ultima, the Coral Cup and the Stayers’ Hurdle, for a second time.

Glaveys stars shine as Ballyhaunis eye final

The excitement is building as Ballyhaunis Community School prepares for their Lidl All-Ireland PPS Junior C Championship semi-final on this Friday, March 7th, 2025.

Among the talented squad set to take the field against Scoil Mhuire agus Íde, Limerick, are 14 outstanding representatives from the Michael Glaveys GAA Club, who have played a crucial role in the team’s journey to this stage.

The road to the semi-final was paved with determination and resilience, highlighted by a thrilling Connacht Final victory over Glenamaddy Community School.

The weather provided the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating match, as the BCS Junior girls started strong with three early goals, establishing a commanding lead going into the second half. Glenamaddy mounted an impressive comeback, equalising with ten minutes to go, but the BCS girls held firm and secured a last-minute goal to clinch the win. The final score was BCS 6-7, GCS 5-6. This win

secured their place in the All-Ireland semi-final. Congratulations to their management team – Mr Folan, Ms McGuire, and to all the players.

The Michael Glaveys contingent includes: Emma McGuire, Ruby Coggins, Caoilagh Kelly, Vivienne Gannon, Erin Hibbet, Robyn Keane, Aoife Burke, Leanne Burke, Rachel

Lawless, Rachel Fleming, Emily Gormley, Sarah Ryan, Meabh Scally, and Chloe Hurley.

Guiding the team from the sidelines is coach Caroline McGuire Falls, another proud Michael Glaveys representative, whose expertise and leadership have been pivotal in preparing the players for the challenges ahead.

This semi-final appearance represents a fantastic achievement for Ballyhaunis Community School and an incredible moment for the young stars of Michael Glaveys. Their presence on the squad is a testament to the strength and depth of underage football in the club, highlighting the dedication of players, coaches, and mentors who have helped develop these talented athletes.

Local support will be vital as Ballyhaunis Community School aims to book their place in the All-Ireland final. With a strong connection to their club and community, these players will no doubt give it their all as they strive for victory. Best of luck to all involved!

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Tom Red

Honesty Policy, yellow, gets up to beat the grey Champagne Jury and Keith Donoghue at Leopardstown.

BCS Connacht Champions

Roscommon win major darts title

In darts, the annual INDO Inter-counties was held in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, County Kerry last weekend. Roscommon had both ladies and men’s teams competing. What a weekend it turned out to be!

Our men faced a daunting task in their group, which included Kerry, Meath, Limerick and Longford. A narrow 8-5 loss to Kerry (wins for Sean Fleming (twice), David Concannon, Mick Egan and Kieran Mullen) was followed by a 9-4 defeat to Limerick (Mick Egan, Sean Fleming, Aaron Blaides and Padraig Kearney with the Roscommon wins).

A victory was needed to keep hopes of a last 16 berth alive, and an 8-5 win over neighbours Longford was just what was required.

Wins for David Concannon, Kieran McCormack, Thomas Concannon, Darren O’Brien, Mick Egan, Padraig

Kearney, Kieran Mullen and Aaron Shannon ensured Roscommon stayed in contention.

Roscommon needed to beat Meath in their final game, but despite wins for Darren O’Brien, David Concannon, Aaron Blaides, Mick Egan, Kieran McCormack and Padraig Kearney, a 7-6 loss meant that Roscommon would progress to the shield event on Sunday. Roscommon received a bye to the quarter-finals, where they would yet again meet Longford. A 7-5 win for Roscommon was built on wins for David Concannon, Darren O’Brien, Thomas Concannon, Sean Fleming and Mick Egan before Aaron Shannon hit the winning double to secure a semi-final place.

A tough Westmeath team awaited. Despite losing the first two games, Roscommon regained composure to take

a 3-2 lead thanks to wins for Padraig Kearney, Sean Fleming and Thomas Concannon. Games were exchanged back and forth, as Kieran McCormack, Aaron Blaides and Darren O’Brien all played their part with wins. However, with the score tied at 6-6, it would go to a final game. Sean Finan showed great determination in overcoming a 1-0 deficit to win 2-1 to send Roscommon to the Shield Final.

In that final, Roscommon’s opponents were an experienced Carlow outfit. Roscommon were slow out of the traps, Carlow taking a 2-0 lead. Roscommon rallied, wins for David Concannon, Thomas Concannon, Sean Fleming and Mick Egan putting them 4-2 ahead. Games were exchanged on two occasions from here, with wins for Padraig Kearney and Aaron Blaides putting Roscommon 6-5 in front.

Next up was Darren O’Brien who held his nerve superbly in his first year playing county darts with Roscommon, recording a 2-1 win and sealing a national title for Roscommon on a 7-5 scoreline.

Congratulations to all players who put in the work both this year and over previous years. Special thanks to our management team of Tommy Beirne and Brendan Mullarkey for all their preparations over recent months. Meanwhile, it was a momentous occasion for our ladies team, who after forming last year competed in the event for the first time.

Laois, Donegal and Galway awaited in an extremely tough group. A 6-1 loss to a hugely experienced Galway team (Barbara Victory with the Roscommon win), was followed by 5-2 defeats to Donegal (wins for Katie Walshe and

Roscommon camogie team maintain unbeaten start

Roscommon’s unbeaten start to their National Camogie League Division 3A campaign continued last Saturday when Mary Grehan’s charges drew with Kildare (Roscommon 0-13 Kildare 1-10) at Hawkfield.

It was a very competitive match all through. Roscommon started well and with Tara Naughton and Sarah Dooley playing well, the visitors forged ahead. They led by 0-6 to 0-1 after 20 minutes but late in the half the home side got into the game. At half-time Roscommon led by 0-7 to 0-5. Roscommon continued to lead throughout the third quarter with Rachel Fitzmaurice and Sally Bolger also prominent. Kildare got in for a goal inside the final ten minutes to edge ahead, but two points from

Rachel Fitzmaurice saw Roscommon go in front close to the end of the game. Then a late converted free from Kildare’s Lara Sutton brought the sides level at the final whistle. Roscommon’s next league fixture is away against

on March

scorers were as

Elaine Hannon) and Laois (wins for Barbara Victory and Jane King). Valuable game time and experience on the main stage was gained throughout the group stages, while the ladies progressed to the Shield event on Sunday. A bye to the quarters paired them against a strong Louth outfit. Despite going 2-0 down, the ladies showed great resolve, as wins for Katie Walshe, Elaine Hannon and Barbara Victory put them 3-2 ahead and only one point from victory. However, it was not to be as Louth edged it on a 4-3 scoreline. Well done to out ladies team on a highly successful year. Thanks to the players and manager Martin King for all their efforts throughout the year.

Finally, as always, we extend special thanks to Hannon’s Hotel for their continued sponsorship of darts in Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON

It was a momentous week for club member Olivia Costello who reached the final of the Women’s Spanish Amateur Championship last Sunday and was only beaten on the very last green (see separate story in this issue).

Simon Walker competed in the R&A Student Tour Series in Portugal (representing Maynooth University) last weekend where he finished in the top 15.

LADIES: Winner of the 9-hole re-entry competition (18th to 24th February) was Sinead Healy with a super score of 25 points.

This week the 9-hole re-entry continues, playing holes 1 to 9. Spring League draw has been done with four teams of eight and three reserves. March is the month for foursomes with all team captains getting their pairings ready for an exciting month ahead.

SENIORS: Latest results: Winner: Peter Geraghty (30 pts); 2nd: Jackie Kilroy (26 pts); 3rd: Michael Dolan (26 pts). 26 played and Peter Geraghty had the only deuce of the day. MEN’S COMPETITIONS: Last weekend’s results (15hole) were as follows… 1st: Michael Sharkey; 2nd: Mark Cunniffe. Our first sponsored club competition of the year was last weekend. The 17-hole re-entry event was sponsored by John Corcoran Menswear. The results were: 1st: Tony McManus (39 pts); Category 1: Brian Cleary (37 pts); Category 2: Tom Og Reddington (37 pts); Category 3: Ger Broderick (38 pts); Gross: Cian Duggan (34 pts).

This weekend’s competition on Saturday and Sunday (17hole) is kindly sponsored by Topline Wards.

JUNIORS: The Junior Committee will be at the clubhouse this weekend to assist with registration for the year ahead, as follows: Friday, 7th of March from 6 pm to 7.30 pm; Saturday, 8th of March from 10 am to 11.30 am. New junior members welcome.

Laois

22nd. Roscommon’s

follows: Tara Naughton (05, 1 free, ’45), Sarah Dooley (0-3), Rachel Fitzmaurice (0-3), Sally Bolger (0-2).

Roscommon players pictured prior to their Very National Camogie League Division 3A game against Kildare last Saturday. Photo: Austin Crowe Photography

Pictured is the Roscommon team (and management), winners of the Shield final in the INDO Inter-counties event held in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, County Kerry last weekend. Left to right: Michael Egan, Gary Concannon, Sean Fleming, Thomas Concannon, Brendan Mullarkey, Aaron Blaides, Darren O’Brien, Aaron Shannon, Kieran McCormack, David Concannon, Sean Finan, Jason Owens, Mark Concannon, Kieran Mullen, Tom Beirne, Martin Fleming and Padraig Kearney.

Aaron Shannon, the youngest player on the Roscommon team, pictured with Sean Finan, the oldest member of the team.

SportsPeople

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

Cork sunk as Roscommon back on track

Roscommon senior footballers got their promotion push back on track with a convincing win over Cork in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh last Saturday. While Cork got off to a good start (leading 0-5 to 0-3 after 20 minutes or so), once Roscommon settled into the game a series of scores before half-time laid the foundation for a big win. On another day the margin might not have been so substantial. Cork did miss a lot of chances, and struck the crossbar twice with goal attempts. But Roscommon were good value for their big win. It was good to see the attack flowing again, good too to see Roscommon being ruthless.

This was a performance which essentially banishes the memory of an unsatisfactory outing in Navan, where Roscommon lost to Meath. Whether it’s akin to the setback of Navan or the commanding display of last weekend in Cork, there will, as Van Morrison sang, be days like this.

The main thing is that the trend is good. It’s now four wins from five for Roscommon in Division Two. A real positive of this league campaign to date is the breadth of options now available to Davy Burke, with new players doing really well and established first-teamers returning in fine form.

Introducing… the ‘Meath Mourinho’

Meath senior football manager Robbie Brennan has a colourful, straight-talking style. His team is flying. Last Sunday, Conor Duke scored a controversial late goal (allegedly it came three seconds after the hooter had sounded) to secure a win over Westmeath.

Here’s what Brennan had to say about the finale to the game when asked by LMFM Radio: “I don’t know… I was giving out to the linesman like I was for most of the half so I didn’t actually see it, all I know is when Dukey rattled the net I was gone off like Jose Mourinho down the line like a mad man.”

The ‘Meath Mourinho’ was just as open when saying this of the new rules: “My own honest opinion is they’ve lost the run of what we’re trying to do. The whole idea here was to try and protect the game and we’re not doing that. That’s not Gaelic football… you turn your phone on and it’s 17-0 to somebody, it’s a joke to be honest with you the way it’s gone. It’s a mix of outdoor basketball with a breeze, soccer-style defending with eleven behind the ball in zonal stuff, and a bit of rugby thrown in for a few scrums around the middle –God forbid we forget our rugby brethren”. Brilliant!

Wishing CBS well on Sunday

Roscommon CBS is a school with a proud sporting tradition. For decades, that was primarily in GAA terms, but like other schools in the region, Roscommon CBS now excels across a range of sports.

This Sunday in Longford, the current CBS Gaelic football team is on the cusp of greatness. After a fine campaign during which they have grown in confidence – impressing more and more in each outing – they enter an All-Ireland final with every

chance of success. It won’t be easy however. Patrician High School (County Monaghan) have their own proud tradition, their own impressive journey this season to inspire them, and their own legitimate dreams of glory this weekend.

It’s likely to be close. It seems certain that the title will go to the hungriest team, provided they have a bit of luck on their side too. All of County Roscommon is behind the CBS. We wish the players, management and all at the school every success on Sunday. (See our preview on pages 3844).

Don’t forget your ladder (five years ago)

Five years ago this month, then-Taoiseach Leo Varadkar addressed the Irish people on the immediate threat posed by the emerging Covid-19 pandemic. The main concern then, and in the perilous months that followed, was for the health and welfare of our people. It was a health crisis, and very soon it was an economic one, and a wider societal nightmare.

Very quickly, sport was impacted greatly. The sporting world as we knew it came crashing down, with hundreds of sports forced to cancel competitions.

Massive international events such as the summer Olympics and Paralympics of 2020 were postponed and ultimately not held that year.

At first, the absence of competitive sporting action was a terrible blow for supporters. The only consolation was that TV companies, radio stations and podcast presenters stepped in with some creative ideas.

Suddenly, watching Alan Shearer (yes, even Alan Shearer) and Gary Lineker and other pundits such as Ian Wright and Micah Richards select their ‘Top 10s’ (players, matches, goals, etc) was a saviour for fans bereft because of the abrupt absence of live action. Suddenly, Aan Shearer was Billy Connolly (well, not quite).

Then there was a limited amount of live sport being played ‘behind closed doors’, i.e. with no spectators present. This was very welcome, although the lack of atmosphere undoubtedly took from the viewing experience. Still, we were grateful for some competitive sport to enjoy.

When GAA club games resumed, the novelty of an Irish solution to an Irish problem brought some amusement, with photos appearing of innovative

Championship, underlining her class.

After a fantastic run in earlier rounds, Olivia reached last Sunday’s final, where she met Nagore Martinez Salcedo of Spain.

The Roscommon golfer went two holes up after four, and led by three after the first nine. However, the home golfer began to rein Costello in, finally making it all square after 15. The duo shared holes 16 and 17 before the Spaniard won the 18th, taking the title by the narrowest of margins.

This was a wonderful performance (all week) by Olivia Costello. It was a magnificent achievement to finish runner-up in this tournament, having defeated several top players in a high-quality field.

Serial winner Higgins spanning the decades

When John Higgins won his first professional snooker tournament (1994), it was the year of OJ Simpson’s arrest, Bill Clinton was US president, the first episode of Friends was released in America, and Tony Blair was elected leader of the Labour Party in the UK.

Last weekend, Higgins became the oldest winner of a ranking tournament in 43 years, just short of his 50th birthday (in May).

Higgins defeated Joe O’Connor 10-6 in the final of the World Open, played in China. He did it in style too, winning the decisive frame with a century break.

supporters (a handful at least) bringing ladders to venues and catching some of the action by glimpsing over walls. One fan even placed a ladder against the wall in St Coman’s cemetery so that he could view a game in Dr Hyde Park! Yes, it’s not a dream… we lived through such times.

The name game…

I see that Cusack Park in Clare is to be renamed ‘Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg’. Our thoughts are with our colleagues in the local media in Clare; we are here for them at this difficult time.

Costello shines in Spain

Olivia Costello’s tremendous progress continues. The Roscommon Town golfer had a sensational week at the Women’s Spanish Amateur

Higgins is now the second-oldest winner of a ranking tournament in snooker history; the distinction of being oldest winner still lies with the late Ray Reardon, who was 50 when he won the Professional Players’ Tournament in 1982.

Playing to the crowd!

Here’s an annoying thing that some soccer players do (I’m sure readers will agree).

It’s a home game. Let’s say their team has been under pressure for 5/10 minutes… basically they’re being outplayed. Player X makes a good defensive tackle, or perhaps an average run forward which wins a throw, or a corner.

Then, in order to draw attention to the fact that it was their play that broke the other team’s momentum – however unspectacularly – Player X simply (but prominently) gestures to the crowd with their arms. It comes across as a rallying gesture, demanding more vocal support from the stands, while ensuring to convey the message that it was Player X who has suddenly lifted the whole team.

I’m sure there are times when this type of thing is totally genuine and heartfelt, but there are also times when it’s self-serving, opportunistic attention-seeking!

Ben O’Carroll of Roscommon in action against Tommy Walsh of Cork during the Allianz Football League Division Two match between Cork and Roscommon at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Flashback to 2020: Eamon O’Rourke watches St Brigid’s v Boyle from St Coman’s Cemetery – overlooking Dr Hyde Park.

Hurlers need a win this weekend

Allianz Hurling League Division Three Mayo 3-25 Roscommon 1-12

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon hurlers suffered their heaviest defeat of their league campaign in Tooreen last Sunday when they went down by a whopping 19-point margin to Mayo in what was a one-sided match, especially in the second half.

This result means that Kevin Sammon’s side will have to win at least one of their remaining games against Cavan or Sligo to stay in the division.

Roscommon competed reasonably well in the opening half with the wind at their backs and Cathal Kenny’s early goal gave the visitors a boost. But Roscommon were struggling to build up a lead, and after Mayo knocked over six points without reply a half-time scoreline of Mayo 0-11 Roscommon 1-6 did not bode well for the visitors who had to face the elements in that second period.

As it was, Mayo ran riot in the second half, with fullforward Cormac Phillips lethal in front of the posts, scoring 2-8 on the day. Liam Lavin scored the third Mayo goal. In fact Roscommon’s best player on the day was their goalkeeper Enda Lawless who prevented

an even heavier defeat with several excellent saves. Roscommon now face a ‘must-win’ game against Cavan in the league this Saturday at 2 pm at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park.

Mayo: Bobby Douglas (0-1, free); Conor Murray, Oisin Greally (0-1), Conal Hession; Simon Thomas, David Kenny, Mark Phillips; Danny Huane (0-1), Kevin McDermott (0-2); Joe Burke, Sean Kenny, John Heraty; Liam Lavin (1-3), Cormac Phillips (2-8), Shane Boland (0-6, frees). Subs: Ryan Duffy (0-2) for S Kenny (14), Jack Trench for M Phillips (43), Matt Farrell (0-1) for S Kenny (52), Eoin Heraty for John Heraty (64).

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Darragh Finn, James Dillon, Tom Gilmore; James Donnelly, Conor Cosgrave (0-4, 3 frees, ’65), Micheal Hussey; Ryan Conlon, Jack Dowling (0-1); Jack McGahon, Conall Kennelly, Cian Murray (0-3); Ben McGahon (0-1, free), Conor Mulry (0-1), Cathal Kenny (1-2). Subs: Brian Lawlor for J McGahon (h/t), Eoin Kiernan for B McGahon (h/t), Brendan Mulry for Kenny (h/t), Matthew Comerford for Cosgrove (54), Trevor Fallon for Conlon (61).

Kilkerrin claim Division 2 title

Congratulations are extended to Kilkerrin United who sealed the Division 2 Championship following their 2-0 win over St John’s Athletic at Lecarrow on Sunday. With ten wins and just one loss Kilkerrin were worthy winners.

The Kilkerrin side got off to a great start and were 1-0 up with just six minutes played. Enda Keane got on the end of a corner kick and he finished with a neat volley. With 20 minutes played a fine solo goal from Darragh Nolan gave his side a two-goal advantage.

The Norio’s Premier Division is finely balanced with just three points separating St John’s Athletic, Boyle Celtic and Castlerea Celtic. All three have just four games left to play and that’s not forgetting Moore United who are four points behind the leaders but have a game less played.

It’s going to be a thrilling finish to the Premier Division with all the top teams playing teams from the top section before the end.

The big game of last weekend was the clash between Moore United and St John’s Athletic at Moore on Friday night. St John’s won 3-1. Castlerea Celtic travelled to Newbridge where they played a Shiven Rovers side who are just above the relegation area. It turned out to be a close contest, Castlerea winning 3-2.

Boyle Celtic had a convincing 5-2 win over Ballaghaderreen at Ballaghaderreen. Skyvalley Rovers had a valuable 3-0 win over Cloonfad United at Cloonfad. They are now competing with Ballinasloe Town and Moylough for the Division 1 title.

Ballinasloe Town were held to a 1-1 draw away to the Glenamaddy side Glen Celtic.

Roscommon United had an impressive 6-2 win over Moore United’s second side at Falty Park, Moore on Sunday.

In the preliminary round of the DK Shield St Cuan’s/Ahascragh United edged out Rahara Rovers in a game played at Ahascragh. This game went all the way to penalties after finishing 2-2 at the end of extra-time with St Cuan’s/Ahascragh winning the shootout 4-3.

Women’s Shield

In the Connacht FA Women’s Shield Dunmore Town beat Shiven Rovers 1-0. Siobhan O’Grady scored what turned out to be the winner with just six minutes played.

Kilkerrin United were unlucky to be beaten on penalties away to the Mayo side Manulla. The game ended 1-1 with Samantha Fahy scoring for Kilkerrin but they were beaten 4-3 in the penalty shootout.

Boyle Celtic suffered heartbreak in last weekend’s FAI Cup U-18 Boys quarter-final when losing 3-2 after extra-time (2-2 at full-time) to Castlebar Celtic (in Boyle). Our photograph shows a dejected Ronan Guckian (Boyle captain) at the final whistle. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from Mayo v Roscommon in the Allianz Hurling League Division Three last weekend: Oisin Greally and Conor Mulry in a race for possession! Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon squad members line up before the start of last Sunday’s Allianz Hurling League Division Three game against Mayo. Mayo won by 3-25 to 1-12. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon re-set with impressive win over Cork

< SEAMUS DUKE

After a miserable day in Navan six days previously, Roscommon footballers put their promotion bid firmly back on track with an impressive and comprehensive win against Cork at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday night last.

A tentative enough first-half display from Davy Burke’s men was followed by a superb secondhalf performance as Roscommon were razor-sharp up front, looking dangerous whenever they were on the attack. Ben O’Carroll was back in the starting line-up and he looked back to his best, scoring 1-3. Meanwhile, Conor Hand continues to enhance his reputation.

Enda Smith was once again commanding around the middle of the field while Diarmuid Murtagh was unerring from the placed ball

and Shane Cunnane turned in a fine display all through. It was also good to see Niall Daly back on the field (as a late sub). He weighed in with his customary long-range point in the final seconds. In contrast, Cork were very wasteful and although they had plenty of possession they missed many chances over the course of the match. Their total of 13 wides to Roscommon’s three tells its own tale. In truth they were well beaten in the end.

Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a magnificent venue. After the drama of the Cork/Kilkenny hurling match that was on beforehand there was a low-key start to this game. Cork were competitive in the opening quarter and by the 16th minute they led by 0-5 to 0-3. Those scores for the home side came from Mark Cronin with four points (one twopointer) and Conor O’Mahony.

A Robbie Dolan score, a cracking point from Ben O’Carroll, and a converted ’45 from Conor Hand kept Roscommon ticking over before the visitors had a purple patch, scoring six points with reply. A mark from the excellent Shane Cunnane, four points from Diarmuid Murtagh frees (one two-pointer) and another smart point from Ben O’Carroll saw Roscommon lead by 0-9 to 0-5

after 29 minutes.

Diarmuid Murtagh (free) and Mark Cronin exchanged twopointers, and when Conor Hand pointed in the final seconds it meant Roscommon were ahead by 0-12 to 0-8 at half-time.

Roscommon were much more assured and clinical in the second half. Points from Ultan Harney, a two-pointer from the lively Conor Hand, and another Ben O’Carroll

score helped them into a 0-16 to 0-11 lead by the 43rd minute.

In the 48th minute Ciarán Lennon was tripped in the Cork penalty area and Enda Smith converted the resultant penalty and now Roscommon were eight points to the good. Another excellent two-pointer from play from Hand extended the lead in the 54th minute, and the two league points were in the bag at that stage.

Cork did have plenty of possession but they missed chance after chance. Indeed they hit the crossbar twice late on. Sub Sean Powter’s shot went over after hitting the woodwork in the 58th minute while Brian O’Driscoll’s effort struck the crossbar and went out wide in the 65th minute.

Roscommon punished those misses ruthlessly. In the 64th minute Rory Maguire attempted to pass the ball back to his goalkeeper (not allowed under the new rules) and when the ball was pinched by Ben O’Carroll he made no mistake from close-range for Roscommon’s second goal.

There was a welcome sight late on as Niall Daly returned to action from the bench and the last play of the game saw the Padraig Pearses man shoot over from long-range (he was denied a two-pointer as Cork goalkeeper Doyle got a hand to the ball as it headed over).

This was a very satisfying win for Roscommon who now face Cavan at home and Westmeath away in their final two league games. A win in one of those fixtures should guarantee promotion and a place in the Division Two final.

Putting up a big score again will have pleased manager Davy Burke and his selectors and with the likes of Brian Stack, Conor Daly and Eddie Nolan still to return, the squad is taking shape ahead of the championship which is now only a few weeks away.

Note: This was the first time I had been to SuperValu Páirc Uí

Chaoimh since it was refurbished. It is a superb venue with excellent facilities for supporters and the media alike.

Teams & scorers

Scoring key: tp = two-pointer from play; tpf = two-point free

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Pearse Frost, John McManus, Niall Higgins; Shane Cunnane (01, mark), David Murray, Robbie Dolan (0-1); Enda Smith (1-0, pen), Keith Doyle; Ben O’Carroll (1-3), Ultan Harney (0-1), Conor Hand (0-6, 1 tp, 1 ‘45); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-7, 2 tpf, 2 frees), Cian McKeon, Ciarán Lennon. Subs: Ciaráin Murtagh (0-1, free) for McKeon (35); Ronan Daly for McManus (46), Eddie Nolan for Harney (52), Niall Daly (0-1) for Dolan (67).

Cork: Patrick Doyle; Sean Brady, Daniel O’Mahony, Neil Lordan; Brian O’Driscoll, Rory Maguire, Mattie Taylor; Ian Maguire, Colm O’Callaghan (0-1, free); Paul Walsh (0-1), Tommy Walsh (0-1); Sean McDonnell; Mark Cronin (08, I tpf, 1tp, 3 frees, 1 mark), Chris Og Jones, Cathal O’Mahony (0-1). Subs: Sean Powter (0-1) for Walsh (43), Ruairi Deane for O’Mahony (45), Sean Walsh for McDonnell (59), Conor Cahalane for Paul Walsh (60), Hugh O’Connor for Chris Og Jones (68).

Referee: Johnny Murphy (Limerick).

Stat Attack

Wides: Roscommon 3 (2, first half); Cork 13 (4, first half)

Red cards: 0

Black cards: 0

Yellow cards: Roscommon 1 (John McManus); Cork 0

Attendance: 5,000 (approx Man of the Match: Enda Smith (Roscommon)

Enda Smith of Roscommon in action during the Allianz Football League Division Two match between Cork and Roscommon at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

John McManus of Roscommon in action against Paul Walsh of Cork during the Allianz Football League Division Two match between Cork and Roscommon at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Burke pleased with impact ‘off the bench’

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Davy Burke was very pleased with his side’s 14-point win against Cork.

“Cork went short with their kickouts in the first 10 minutes and they got three points from that, but once we pushed up and forced them to kick long we got into it well.”

The manager was very happy with the attitude and application of his side.

“We certainly turned up here tonight and I was delighted to get some of the lads back. Niall Daly came on and we had Davy Murray starting. We are getting our squad back thankfully.”

Burke paid tribute to a number of players who excelled on the night.

“I thought Shane Cunnane was absolutely outstanding. When the heat was on he won several great balls. We had great impact off the bench as well with the likes of Ronan Daly and Eddie Nolan.

“We started Ben (O’Carroll) tonight and he adds another dimension to our side. There are a few more who haven’t got into the team yet but I was very happy with the forwards tonight. We need to add threats up front and that’s what we are doing.”

The Roscommon manager says that it was satisfying to win in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

“It was great to come down here and get over the line. We were here a few years ago and we threw away a seven-point lead. But we pulled away well tonight and our bench made a big difference.”

He emphasised that winning away from home is not easy.

“I’m not sure that the general public know how hard it is to win on the road. But I just want to say that I thought the referee Sean Lonergan was excellent tonight. He was very fair and two sides got a fair crack of the whip which was great.” Looking ahead to the final two games in the campaign Burke says that two wins will mean promotion.

“Cavan first now and we will welcome them to Hyde Park next day up. They will be looking to win four in a row so there is nothing easy” he concluded.

Reviewing the rules

While there have been no major issues with the new rules in games involving Roscommon, cracks are beginning to show in some of the new regulations after the action around the country over the past few rounds of the league. Last weekend there were at least five games where there was major controversy with aspects of the new rules such as the hooter, the 20-second kickout rule, the dissent penalty of 50 metres, the way referees are starting and stopping the clock (amongst other matters). Many of the new ‘enhancements’ have been positive, but the authorities will have to pay attention to the problems that have arisen on a number of fronts – and address them. After all, the championship is starting in a few weeks’ time, and locally here in Roscommon, the club leagues commence this weekend. There is a review of the new rules underway this week. We await the outcome with interest.

Classy Cork ease past Roscommon

Roscommon’s first ever outing at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh ended with a 14-point defeat last Saturday, and although the margin would suggest a very one-sided match, Finbar Egan’s charges performed admirably on a cold but dry day down by the River Lee. Cork had just too much class, particularly up front. Indeed, in a very open first half, the Rebelettes scored four goals. It could have been even more, but Roscommon can be thankful to goalkeeper Helena Cummins who made a number of excellent saves to keep her side in the contest.

These are the games that will bring Roscommon on in preparation for later in the year. They will be encouraged by having competed well with teams such as Cork, Galway and Donegal, and with matches to come against Tipperary and Westmeath it is entirely possible that Roscommon can stay in this division. Cork had the ball in the Roscommon net after just 25 seconds when Elizabeth Coppinger sliced through the Roscommon defence, and points from Abigail Ring and Kate Quirke saw the home side ahead by five after only four minutes.

Roscommon were dangerous on the break, and in the 7th minute Aisling Hanly stole in behind the Cork cover to shoot low past Sarah Murphy. Cork were on the goal trail again just a minute later when Emma Cleary converted a penalty after a foul on Elizabeth Coppinger. Play was held up for over 10 minutes because of an injury to Orla O’Neill (a ligament problem), and when the action

resumed Roscommon scored their second goal. A long ball from Laura Mannion in the 29th minute flew all the way to the net, reducing the margin to just two.

The home side were to strike for three-pointers twice in the remaining minutes of the first half, Emma Cleary and Elizabeth Coppinger scoring their second goals of the match in the 35th and 39th minutes respectively. Halftime score: Cork 4-6 Roscommon 2-5.

Cork kept Roscommon at arm’s length in the second half as both sides ran their respective benches to give their full panels game time. Cork comfortably maintained their lead and knocked over some impressive points late on when the game was over as a contest.

For Roscommon, Helena Cummins was outstanding between the posts while Laura Mannion, Aisling Hanly, Rachel Brady and Caoimhe Lennon were very prominent all through.

For Cork, Laura O’Mahony had a superb game, popping up to good effect all over the pitch throughout. Emma Cleary, Abigail Ring, Katie Quirke and Elizabeth Coppinger were also excellent for the home side on the day.

Player of the match

Laura O’Mahony (Cork)

Note: A couple of weeks ago we highlighted the problem some supporters were having in trying to make out the numbers on the backs of the senior men’s jerseys. That was cleared up very well by the powers that be. There is a similar problem now with the ladies jerseys. Several people

(including members of the Cork media) spent most of the game asking us to help identify Roscommon players. It is certainly very difficult to make out the Roscommon players’ numbers. Over to you, Roscommon LGFA.

Teams & scorers

Cork: Sarah Murphy; Melissa Duggan, Shauna Kelly, Anna Ryan; Emma Cleary (2-1, 1-0 pen), Sarah Leahy, Roisin Ni Chorcha (0-1);

Maire O’Callaghan, Abigail Ring (04); Abbie O’Mahony (0-1), Shauna Cronin, Aimee Corcoran (0-2); Laura O’Mahony (0-1), Elizabeth Coppinger (2-0), Katie Quirke (0-6, 4 frees). Subs used: Emma Hurley, Orlaith Roche, Siobhan Callinan, Amy McDonagh, Laura Cleary, Sabh McCormack, Katie Horgan, Leah Hallinan (0-1). Roscommon: Helena Cummins; Rachel Brady, Ellen Irwin, Megan McKeon; Orla O’Neill, Saoirse Wynne, Ria Lennon; Abby Curran,

Caoimhe Cregg for McGuinness (40), Roise Lennon for C Lennon (40), Marian Nolan (0-1) for Hanly (51), Megan Kelly for Brady

Amy Malone for Watson (53), Aine O’Meara for O’Rourke (57), Lauren Shanagher for Fitzmaurice (67).

Referee: Barry Redmond (Wexford).

Conor Hand of Roscommon in action against Colm O’Callaghan of Cork during the Allianz Football League Division Two match between Cork and Roscommon at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Niamh Watson; Shannon McGuinness, Laura Mannion (1-5, 2 frees), Lisa O’Rourke; Aisling Hanly (1-1), Ella Thompson (0-1), Caoimhe Lennon (01). Subs: Niamh Feeney for O’Neill (22),

(52),

Libby Coppinger of Cork in action against Ellen Irwin, left, and Megan McKeon of Roscommon during the Lidl LGFA National Football League Division Two match between Cork and Roscommon at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

‘Players are focused and ready’ – Moran

 SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon CBS team are jointly managed by Noel Moran and Eoghan Coll. Coll was the manager back in 2019 when the CBS won the All-Ireland title, beating Rathmore of Kerry by a point in the final at Croke Park, while Moran was a selector on that occasion. Looking ahead to this weekend’s final, Noel Moran says: “It’s super to be in a final, not only for the school but for the local community as well. We had great support in Abbotstown for the semi-final. We outnumbered Dunboyne on the day and the venue was only a few miles away from them. We got great support from the various clubs and the public in general, and that was a big boost to us.”

Moran says that bringing the players back down to earth after the semi-ﬁnal was important.

“We got them back training on the Tuesday after the semi-ﬁnal and they seem to be well focused now and they know what’s ahead. Our job is to keep them on the straight and narrow and hopefully they will rise to the occasion on Sunday.”

The joint manager reﬂected on what he says was a tough campaign to get to the ﬁnal.

“Connacht was tricky. We played Headford and St Nathy’s and we had a really tough game against a very strong Oranmore side (CBS won by a point). When we came through that test we felt that we were in with a chance.

“We settled down for the Connacht ﬁnal against Strokestown

and we had to work hard to win that match. In the semi-ﬁnal we had a great battle against Dunboyne.

“We have had great buy-in all year from this group of lads. We started with a panel of 40 and then whittled it down to 32. We put a tough programme in front of them. We did 35 or 40 training sessions and played eight or nine challenge games against strong teams. You can’t beat hard games in preparation.”

Noel says that Pearse Park in Longford will be an excellent venue for the decider.

“We were delighted with the choice of venue. We wanted to play the ﬁnal in a recognised county ground. You saw what happened in the semi-ﬁnal with the match played in Abbotstown. It’s great

for these young lads to be playing in Longford and the fact it’s not too far away will mean that we should have a good following on the day.”

So what does Noel know about the opposition from Carrickmacross?

“We know that they have come through a very difﬁcult Ulster campaign. We also know how tough football is in Ulster and we are expecting that they will be a physical side. We might not be the most physical in the world so that is something we will be working on. They defeated a very strong Tyrone side (Carrickmore) to win Ulster after a replay and that’s a good sign for them. They won the All-Ireland semi-ﬁnal easily so we know what’s ahead. No All-Ireland title is easily won is one thing we can say” he concluded.

Roscommon CBS players pictured in action on Tuesday, training ahead of their All-Ireland nal this weekend. Pic: Michael Finan

Roscommon CBS management personnel pictured during a training session on Tuesday. Left to right: Sean Adamson, Noel Moran, Eoghan Coll and Gerry Lohan. Pic: Michael Finan

Coll hoping to revisit glory of 2019

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Eoghan Coll has plenty of experience at this level. In fact he was the manager when Roscommon CBS won the All-Ireland title by a point in dramatic style at Croke Park in 2019.

He says that having been there before means that it makes preparations a little easier.

“The logistical side of things are certainly not as difﬁcult. That end of things takes a little time but we have most of that offﬁeld stuff looked after and we can concentrate on the important stuff now.”

Coll says that to have a strong panel is probably the most important aspect of their preparations. The selectors made a few changes during the campaign in terms of the starting 15 and they have paid off so far.

“There is not a lot between the players on the panel ability-wise, and we are telling them that all the time. There is no point preaching to them that there is competition for places and then picking the same 15 for every match.

“The team is picked on performance and on training and that bit of competition between them drives them all on. We would have a few players who are strong and would be ﬁrst choice but there are a lot of lads chomping at the bit to get into the team for the next day and that’s very healthy.”

Eoghan says he is expecting the ﬁnal to be a much different game to the semi-ﬁnal.

“There was a lot of space up front in the semi-ﬁnal and I wouldn’t envisage that there will be too much space in that regard in the ﬁnal so we will have to plan for that.

But we have done that all year and you have to take it game by game.

“From what we have heard we expect Carrickmacross to go quite defensive and we are going to have to ﬁgure a way around that. We have to make sure that we ﬁnd the space and make the chances on the day.”

Eoghan says that Roscommon CBS will have to be tactically aware on the day.

“We have to be clever with our use of the ball. There is no point kicking a ball into a crowded area because it will come straight back. We have to be pragmatic about it and mind the ball, and then work the space when we can.”

The joint team manager says that for young lads on a big occasion such as Sunday’s, it’s all about how they handle it.

“You can try as much as you can to prepare them. Some lads will handle it ﬁne and then other lads not so much. It’s all about chatting to them. It’s important that they enjoy it but that they understand what they have to do. The build-up and the craic in the school is great but you cannot let that dominate too much.”

Finally, Eoghan says that it is a huge boost to Roscommon GAA to have a team in an All-Ireland ﬁnal. “It’s great for underage football in the county. Strokestown were very good this year too and for our lads it’s brilliant because they are being dragged in all directions between club teams, county minor and U-20s.

“We have such a narrow window in schools football. It’s far too tight in my view but that’s for another day. Remember too that these lads are in school to study for their exams so it all has to be factored in” he concluded.

Eoghan Coll issues instructions during Tuesday’s training session. Pic: Michael Finan

Eoghan Coll pictured when CBS Roscommon won the AllIreland title in Croke Park in 2019.

SportsPeople

Damien Lohan & Co

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One of the most experienced coaches and selectors on the GAA circuit is Sean Adamson, who has been involved with teams from around the country for many decades. He was also involved with the CBS in 2019 and is now enjoying his role with the school team in 2025.

Sean says that the team has improved since the season started, admitting he wasn’t overly conﬁdent about their prospects at the beginning of the campaign.

“As the year has gone on they have got better

and better. They have sprung to life as the campaign has gone on and it’s been great to see it.”

Sean echoed the thoughts of joint manager Eoghan Coll when he says that there are too many demands on these young players.

“The players are being pulled in many directions. There is club and county minor, and club and county U-20, so it’s very hard to handle all that… and you have to be conscious of that.”

So does Sean see a team that can win an AllIreland title this year?

“Yes, we have a team that can win it. We had teams in the past that may have had more

About Patrician High School… Adamson delighted with ‘team ethic’

skilful players but there is a great team ethic this year. They have a great chance. The Monaghan side will be good for sure and we will have to stop their main players on the day.”

Adamson says that it is easy to see the bond that has formed within the group of players on the panel.

“That’s very evident. It helps that this is a small school. They are studying together, they are training together, and playing together so that’s a huge factor and hopefully that will tell in the ﬁnal” he concluded.

Roscommon CBS’s opponents, Patrician High School from County Monaghan, caters for about 400 boys. On the GAA front, it has a great record in the Ulster and All-Ireland ‘B’ championships, having won ﬁve Ulster titles and one AllIreland crown.

That All-Ireland title was won in 1997 at Croke Park. Their opponents that day were none other than Roscommon CBS, with Patrician High School winning by a point, 0-15 to 1-11. One of the CBS stars that day was current team selector

and coach, Gerry Lohan.

The Monaghan side came through a very tough Ulster campaign this year, defeating Carrickmore of Tyrone 1-10 to 0-12 in a provincial ﬁnal replay, having drawn 0-13 to 1-10 in the ﬁrst encounter.

In the All-Ireland semiﬁnal they defeated Munster champions Cashel Community School by 1-11 to 0-3, pulling away impressively having led 0-5 to 0-3 at half-time. They are a strong, physical side. The likes of Conor Mulligan, Joseph McArdle, Tom Maguire, Fergal

McEneaney, Oran Connolly and Joe O’Farrell have been very prominent for them in this campaign so far.

The Carrickmacrossbased side are managed by Dylan McEnaney and their selectors are Dylan Finnegan and Sean Raftery.

Roscommon CBS players pictured in action on Tuesday, training ahead of their All-Ireland nal this weekend. Pic: Michael Finan

‘These players are always willing to listen and learn’

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One of the great side stories in the build-up to this All-Ireland ﬁnal is that CBS selector and coach and former Roscommon senior star Gerry Lohan was an integral part of the Roscommon CBS team when they were defeated by Patrician High School of Carrickmacross – this Sunday’s opponents – in the All-Ireland Colleges ‘B’ ﬁnal of 1997. Gerry recalled that day when he spoke to People Sport “I can remember it well. They beat us by 0-15

to 1-11 and they scored a free in the dying minutes to win it. It was tough to take at the time. A heartbreaking defeat in Croke Park.”

So how does Gerry rate this year’s CBS team?

“We have a very good side. We are strong defensively and we have a good panel up front too… we don’t have any weakness in the team.

Any one of the players on the panel from number one to number 24 can come in and do a job. They are a great bunch to coach and they are always willing to listen and learn. They are very hard-working on the ﬁeld.”

As for Carrickmacross, he had this to say:

“They are a very good side by all accounts. They will be very defensive but they break at pace and they like to kick scores from distance.”

Gerry says that it’s a massive achievement for the CBS to be in the ﬁnal, noting that the ages of the players involved range from 15 up to 18.

“They might never get another chance to play in an All-Ireland final. That’s the reality. In the Connacht final only five 6th years started and in the All-Ireland semi-final only four started so it’s a very young team.”

Gerry Lohan issues instructions during Tuesday’s training session. Pic: Michael Finan

Roscommon CBS can bring the ultimate prize home

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Memories of great days in 2011 and 2019 will come ﬂooding back as CBS Roscommon face into another All-Ireland ﬁnal this weekend. They meet Patrician High Schoool of Carrickmacross on Sunday in Longford.

Memories of those two glory days (when CBS won All-Ireland titles) are sweet, but this team has a chance to write their own names into the Schools GAA history books on Sunday.

Joint managers Noel Moran and Eoghan Coll and their selectors and coaches have presided over a very successful campaign so far. After the win against a very strong Oranmore side in the Connacht semi-ﬁnal, the prospect of a long run in this championship beckoned – and so it has materialised.

A solid but unspectacular display against Scoil Mhiuire, Strokestown secured a Connacht title and then a superb performance in the semi-ﬁnal against Dunboyne now sees the Roscommon town school back in the national ﬁnal. Not having seen Carrickmacross in action, it is hard to say what their form is like – but you can rest assured that they will be a top class side having emerged from the Ulster Championship which is always highly competitive. They defeated Carrickmore of

Tyrone after a replay in the Ulster ﬁnal so they will be battle-hardened. They have a number of top class

performers such as Conor Mulligan, Tom Maguire, Fergal McEneaney and Joe O’Farrell, and will travel to

Longford with conﬁdence. CBS will be hoping that their main players like Michael Gillooly, Eoghan

Carthy, Colin Murray, Owen Rogers, Sam Hannon and Cian Duggan can lead by example on the day and produce the scores that will be required if victory is to be achieved.

That said, a huge work rate all over the ﬁeld will be needed if Roscommon CBS are to win this title. If they can invoke the spirit of Mullingar in 2011 and Croke Park in 2019 they will be halfway there. There is a history between these teams as Carrickmacross defeated Roscommon CBS in the 1997 All-Ireland ‘B’ ﬁnal in Croke Park by a single point (0-15 to 1-11). One man who will want to see that result reversed is present-day CBS coach and selector Gerry Lohan who was one of the CBS stars that day 28 years ago. Lohan of course went on to have a distinguished senior inter-county career with Roscommon.

The fact that Roscommon CBS are improving in every outing is a very positive sign ahead of Sunday’s match. There is little doubt that this game is set to be tight, hard-fought and very intense. The CBS will have a big following in Longford and hopefully that will be a positive factor too. Roscommon CBS have momentum. If they get the breaks on the day they can win the title. Prediction: Roscommon CBS.

Roscommon CBS players Seamie Carthy, David Cox, Aidan Coyle and Colm Fitzgerald pictured on Tuesday at a training session. Pic: Michael Finan

Pictured at training on Tuesday were Sam Hannon, Seanie McDermott and Ivan Bikoi. Pic: Michael Finan

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‘Those lads are heroes in my eyes’

SEAMUS DUKE

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A very proud Leitrim man is Kevin Scollan, who is the principal of Roscommon CBS. He spoke to People Sport about this weekend’s ﬁnal.

“The excitement around the school is phenomenal. It is an honour and a privilege for me to be the principal of the school at such a special time.”

Kevin was full of praise for the team and the management.

“They are fantastic. It is great to be in the school long enough to remember Eoghan (Coll) being involved. I can’t recall Noel (Moran) playing because that was just before my time but the bunch

of lads that are there are absolute gentlemen.

“You meet one who is so mannerly and you meet the next one who is even more mannerly! They are products of their environment. They come from great homes and their parents should be very proud of them.”

So what would a win mean to all associated with the school?

“To win this ﬁnal would be the cherry on top of the cake for us. As I said to the lads earlier – win, lose, or draw, those lads are heroes in my eyes. They are role models for the whole school with the younger lads looking up to them. We wish them the very best of luck.”