Roscommon People - 08 November 2024 by RossiePeople

 EMMETT CORCORAN

After months of speculation as to his intentions, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has announced that he will seek re-election in the Roscommon-Galway constituency.

Meanwhile, his Independent Ireland colleague Cllr Declan Geraghty has conﬁrmed that he will contest the General Election as a candidate in Galway East constituency.

The news came just as Taoiseach Simon Harris conﬁrmed that it is his intention to call the General Election this Friday, with polling on Friday, 29th of November.

Conﬁrming his choice of constituency to the Roscom-

mon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice said he is “not running from a challenge” and has in fact made the hard choice.

“I’m not running from a challenge. I’m standing by the people who stood by me over the past ten years,” he said. “From Roscommon to Galway, and South Leitrim before that, the support I’ve received has been nothing short of humbling. I have worked hard to deliver for

these communities and will continue to do so, whatever the result”.

Councillor Declan Geraghty, meanwhile, will run for Independent Ireland in Galway East. A Williamstown native with deep business roots across County Galway, Cllr Geraghty says he knows what the people of Galway East need in order to thrive.

Of Cllr Geraghty’s candidacy, Deputy Fitzmaurice

said: “The people of the West deserve dedicated representatives who know their needs, and Independent Ireland is giving them that option. Declan, like the rest of our team, brings ﬁrst class knowledge of local issues and a strong commitment to our communities”.

Deputy Fitzmaurice laid his cards on the table on the issue of Government negotiation talks, saying he isn’t going to sell his soul for a top job, but that if the formula for Government is right, he intends on being at the cabinet table.

“As a sitting TD for the party and spokesperson on Agriculture, if I am lucky enough to be re-elected by the people of Roscommon-Galway, I have every intention of going into Government – provided our policies are adopted by coalition partners”. More on page 8.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice Cllr. Declan Geraghty

(090)

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

MAKING A WILL

Creating a will is usually a straightforward matter and leaves you with the peace of mind and knowledge that your loved ones are looked after and your assets are divided in accordance with your wishes, after your death.

What is a will?

A will is a legal document setting out directions on how the property of the person making the will (the “Testator”) shall be distributed upon his or her death Who can make a will?

In order to make a will one must be aged at least 18 years and be of sound mind.

I have not made a will. What happens to my property if I die?

If you die without having made a will, you are said to have died intestate and your property is divided in accordance with the rules of intestacy as set out in the Succession Act, 1965. The rules must be applied strictly regardless of the needs or ﬁnancial circumstances of your next of kin. This can mean that adequate provision is not made for certain loved ones and that your property is not divided in accordance with your wishes. I am the parent of young children, is it important for me to make a will?

It is VITAL that you make a will if you have any children under 18 or if you have any long term dependents. Making a will allows you to appoint a testamentary guardian to care for your children after your death ensuring that custody of your children is granted to the individuals you prefer.

I made a will several years ago, can I change it now? Yes, you can make a new will as often as you like. In fact, it is a good idea to review your will on a regular basis to cater for any changes in your or potential beneﬁciaries circumstances.

If I leave my property to someone in a will am I then precluded from selling it?

No, your will only takes effect on your death. Your property remains yours to do what you wish with it during your lifetime.

Does remarriage or divorce affect my will?

A marriage will revoke any will previously made whereas a divorce will not revoke any will previously made. In both situations testamentary arrangements should be reviewed.

God save the King! Wow! WHAT?

I had no idea you were such a royalist! I mean, I like Charles, but… Huh?

You said ‘God save the King’! I take it you mean King Charles? No! JOHN KING! That CNN graphics guy!

Oh yeah, the guy with the magic wall! The guy who works out how the presidential candidates are doing in the various states! He was great on Tuesday night! He’s some boyo for percentages, and maps, and numbers! He sure is! Speaking of which, how did you get on?

How did I get on? Well, at 1 am I was on course to make it through the night… I had a clear pathway to the morning!

Very good!

But by 2 am, it was turning into a cliffhanger…

As to whether or not you’d be able to stay awake for the all-night coverage? Exactly!

I must admit I was having the odd snooze myself…

By 3 am, it was down to one or two marginals… could I stay up the entire night? Could I really take another coffee? Could our dog put up with any more of my channelhopping? AND?

By 4 am there was a big swing… towards bed!

Thebarstoolboyos

(They pause to watch analysis of Donald Trump’s remarkable comeback)

That’s what we need… effective today! What?

Our own John King! That’s IF we’re going to contest the General Election! Well, we’re going to have to decide this weekend!

Trump, John King… and the boyos’ possible pathway to the Dáil! Endangered Species

If we do run, we need a strategist like CNN’s John King… who can map out a pathway for us to the Dáil!

Okay…

Some person with a keen knowledge of Roscommon-Galway…

Go on…

We get them to draw up a map of the constituency, then every night – without fail – they show us our pathway to the Dáil!

You’re an idiot!

NO! It’s an exercise in visualisation! I can hear them… ‘So boyos, if you take Strokestown, it’s worth x amount. And there’s a huge dividend if you can take Castlerea. Next, I need to see you guys sweeping all along this southern border, from Ballyforan right into Ballinasloe, and soon you’ll be reaching the magic quota!’

A bit like John King’s magic wall?

Our very own magic wall… to the Dáil! By the way, I thought the original plan was for me to run… and for you to be my Director of Elections?

We might opt for a two-candidate strategy. Imagine… two boyos in the Dáil! We’d never look back!

Brilliant! Vote 1 & 2 for the Boyos! Yes! We stand up for farmers, for business, for better living standards, and…. Both: For releasing the plastic tops on the plastic bottles! Free the plastic lids!

(Editor, to himself: ‘With any luck, they’ll get elected, and I’ll be done with them!’)

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Roscommon GAA (and the public here), with the news that the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence project is to receive €5.5m in funding

Donald Trump, who will be the next President of the United States of America, this after he won Tuesday’s election

Shelbourne FC, this after manager Damien Duff guided the famous Dublin club to a ﬁrst League of Ireland Premier Division title in 18 years

It’s been a BAD week for…

Kamala Harris, who was defeated in Tuesday’s US Presidential election

Manchester City, with Tuesday night’s 4-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon meaning they’ve lost three games in a row for the ﬁrst time since April 2018

PIC OF THE WEEK: Brea y’s Daragh Connor extends his hand to a disappointed Dean Casey of ElphinBallinameen at the nal whistle in last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final (Brea y won by 3-15 to 2-5). Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Magical Christmas party nights at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

Join us for the ultimate Christmas party night experience at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon this festive season. Owing to popular demand a third party night has been added on December 20th.

Enjoy an unforgettable night lled with live music, a DJ, and a late bar to keep the festive spirit alive.

In addition to our fantastic festive o erings, we are excited to announce that we will feature a talented magician to add a touch of magic to your evening! Plus, all our party goers will enjoy complimentary Paddy’s sel e mirrors ensuring that you capture all the fun and memories with your friends and family.

Your

“Booking is essential, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to kick o the

in style! For more details, or to request our party

brochure, please contact the hotel events o ce directly at 090 662 6240 or email us at

Christmas Cookery Demonstration at the Abbey

Don’t miss your chance to attend our Christmas Cookery Demonstration with Chef Alison Crean at the Abbey Hotel on Tuesday 19th November. The doors will open at 6.30pm. The demonstration starts at 7.15pm sharp. Tickets priced at €25 each are on sale at hotel reception. €5 per ticket sold will go to Down Syndrome Ireland (Roscommon Branch). Tel: 090 6626240

Christmas Party Nights at the Abbey Hotel

Owing to popular demand a third party night has now been added on Friday 20th December. Party nights on the 13th and 14th December are now sold out. Tel: 090 6626240 or email events@abbeyhotel.ie

Bingo Loco

Bingo Loco will be held at the Abbey Hotel on Saturday 21st December. Tel: 090 6626240

Foster & Allen at the Abbey Hotel

Foster & Allen will be celebrating 40 years of hits with a live concert in

the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Saturday 28th December. Doors open at 7p.m. Show commences at 8p.m. Tickets are 35 euro. Available from Abbey Hotel reception or via Ticketmaster. Tel: 090 6626240.

Women’s Little Christmas Afternoon Tea

Women’s Little Christmas Afternoon Tea will take place on Saturday 4th January at 3p.m. Part proceeds of ticket sales will go to Mayo Roscommon Hospice. This is a perfect Christmas gift idea. Contact events@abbeyhotel.ie or tel: 090 6626240.

Winter Wedding Fair at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon

The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon will hold a Winter Wedding Fair on Sunday January 5th 2025 from 2-5pm. All newly engaged couples are invited to register. Enjoy some complimentary refreshments on the day. Lots of wedding inspiration and fantastic offers from our local wedding suppliers on the day. Enquiries to weddings@abbeyhotel.ie Tel: 090 6666211.

Chef Alison Crean

National Hot Air Ballooning Championships returning to Boyle

Roscommon County Council in association with Lough Key Forest & Activity Park and the Irish Ballooning Association are delighted to announce the return of the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships to Lough Key, Boyle.

Details of this exciting collaboration were announced on Thursday, October 31st at a special reception in Lough Key Forest Park and Leisure Centre, Boyle. The venue served as the ofﬁcial launch site for the 53rd Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships, taking place from the 20th to 26th September 2025.

The spectacular event features up to 30 Hot Air balloons and their crews, typically from USA, Ger-

many, France, Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland. The event will aim to fly twice daily, morning and evening, creating an amazing and colourful spectacle for all to see as the balloons inflate and fly overhead.

Next year’s Championships make a welcome return to Boyle after a near 30-year break since the championships were last held in the county.

The championships were an integral part of the cultural and social life of the North Roscommon area. The event attracted many visitors to the county to marvel at the spectacular event, which could be viewed for miles outside the immediate Boyle area.

Dermot Beggan, General Manager of Lough Key

Forest and Activity Park expressed his delight at the return of the championships to Lough Key. “I am thrilled to have played a part in the return of The Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships to Lough Key Forest and Activity Park and the Boyle area. It is a joy to bring this nostalgic and awe-inspiring spectacle back to our beautiful region”.

Tourism Ofﬁcer with Roscommon County Council Lisa Joy said the local authority were delighted to support the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships and secure Lough Key Forest and Activity Park as the launch site for the 2025 event. The news, she said, was a major vote of conﬁdence not only for Boyle but also for the county’s tourism sector.

Martin Shanagher, Shanagher Hearing, Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Pictured at the launch of the National Hot Air Ballooning Championships in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle on Thursday were Anita Hanmore and Fabian and Ferdia Connolly.

Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at the launch of the National Hot Air Ballooning Championships in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle on Thursday were Fionn and Oran Murtagh, Carrick-on-Shannon. hoto: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at the launch on Thursday of the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships which will return to Boyle next September, 2025 were (back row, l to r): Lisa Joy, Tourism O cer, Roscommon County Council; Dermot Sheerin, Boyle Town Team; Dermot Beggin, Manager, Lough Key Forest Park. Front row (l to r): Dympna DalyFinn, Arigna; Deputy Frank Feighan; Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council; Mark Keaveney, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council & Una Ní Chuinn, Senior Executive O cer, Community and Enterprise section, Roscommon County Council. Photo: Gerard O’Loughlin

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Senator Eugene Murphy has left Fianna Fáil after nearly ﬁve decades of membership of the party. The former TD and current senator is to pursue an Independent bid for the Dáil, following the party’s decision not to add him to their General Election ticket in Roscommon-Galway. The move comes after a tight contest at the party’s selection convention, where Murphy lost to Dr Martin Daly by eight votes.

In recent weeks, Fianna Fáil General Secretary Seán Dorgan conﬁrmed to Murphy that the party would proceed with a single-candidate strategy in the constituency, effectively closing the door on Murphy’s hopes of reentering the Dáil under the party banner. Murphy, who has been a steadfast Fianna Fáil member since his teenage years, expressed both disappointment and frustration at the party’s decision, viewing it as a failure to represent the diverse communities within Roscommon-Galway.

He said: “Fianna Fáil are refusing to give the people of Roscommon a choice… from one end of the county to the other”.

Dissent

There is anecdotal evidence of signiﬁcant disquiet among Fianna Fáil delegates in North Roscommon on foot of the decision by HQ not to add Senator Murphy as a candidate. One Strokestown delegate, who prefers not to be named, conﬁrmed to the Roscommon People that he has a “lifelong membership” with Fianna Fáil and would have “more reasons than most not to be a Murphy ally”; however, he told to us this week that ‘even he’ believes Fianna Fáil have made a “massive tactical error” in not adding Murphy to the General Election ticket.

Separately, speaking to the Roscommon People this week, long-time Murphy ally and Fianna Fáil activist, Bernie Kearney, claimed up to 50% of Fianna Fáil delegates in North Roscommon could defect and join Murphy’s Independent campaign.

“I have no issue really with Fianna Fáil, I’ve supported them my whole life, but I do have an issue with how they have treated Senator Murphy. I do have a problem with how they’ve done things here”.

Independent

Murphy’s history with Fianna Fáil is long-standing. Entering politics as a councillor at the age of 24, he maintained his seat consistently over the years and then

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secured a Dáil seat in 2016 at a time when Fianna Fáil faced challenges in the constituency. Having lost his seat in 2020, he was subsequently successful in Seanad elections.

As he prepares to stand as an Independent, Murphy acknowledged the signiﬁcance of his departure, particularly given his deeprooted ties to grassroots of Fianna Fáil in Roscommon.

His decision to run independently reﬂects his belief that the constituency deserves broader representation than a single-candidate approach can provide. As Murphy stated previously: “It’s not the end of the world for me, but it’s crucial for the people of Roscommon to have a choice in the upcoming election”.

In terms of future Government formation talks, Senator Murphy said that if elected, he will talk with everyone and do what is best for Roscommon.

Aontú candidate for General Election

Aontú has conﬁrmed that Cormac Ó Corcoráin will contest the Roscommon-Galway constituency in the upcoming General Election.

Ó Corcoráin, originally from Galway City, previously ran in Galway West during the 2020 General Election, securing 1,058 ﬁrst-preference votes. He recently contested in the Galway City East local elections, receiving 154 ﬁrst-preference votes.

Aontú, led by Deputy Peadar Tóibín, positions itself as a socially conservative party, advocating for issues such as pro-life policies, support for rural communities, and the protection of traditional industries, including turf-cutting.

Ó Corcoráin has highlighted his involvement in ﬂood relief efforts and his support for the rights of turf-cutters as key components of his campaign.

Senator Eugene Murphy

THURSDAY

David Davin-Power

I was sorry to hear of the passing today of David Davin-Power. RTE’s Northern Editor for many years, he was a giant of Irish broadcasting (TV and radio) for over four decades. Aged 72, his death follows a short illness.

An accomplished journalist and commentator, his eloquent tone was a nightly backdrop in living rooms around the country for many years. Well informed, articulate and measured, his was a trusted voice during what were often turbulent times.

There was usually a twinkle in the eye too, and a quirky turn of phrase… little wonder that those who knew him say David Davin-Power was great social company. Gone too soon, he will be missed and fondly remembered.

FRIDAY

Cringe update

Beware those celebrity love-ins, more pertinently the silly talk that some people involved in the showbiz luvvie-type world go on with. According to the latest issue of Phoenix magazine (and I accept there are marginally more important things happening in the world), former Irish rugby international turned ‘TV star’ Donnacha O’Callaghan recently said of Today FM’s Ian Dempsey: “Like. I look at Ian Dempsey and I feel like genuﬂecting. Anyone that sees this man should hug them. To have done what he has done (presenting breakfast shows) for well over 30 years is amazing”.

This maximum cringe was rightfully included in the Phoenix’s ‘The Hot Air Brigade’ column. I mean, I know a local plumber who’s being doing his job (very well I might add) for over 40 years. Should we all line up to genuﬂect/hug him?

Apart from the cringe factor, it’s worrying language from a supposed onetime ‘hard man’. This is like Julius Caesar complimenting ushers in The Colosseum on their timekeeping and general appearance.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

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

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

On Netﬂix

In keeping with my commitment to occasionally make or pass on TV/ streaming recommendations to readers, a word in favour of the true crime drama ‘A Confession’ which is now on Netﬂix.

Having received a recommendation, we watched it over recent days. ‘A Confession’ is a six-part dramatisation of an investigation into the murder of Sian O’Callaghan in Swindon in 2011.

A second murder is also covered, and there is a strong suspicion (at least on the part of one senior police ofﬁcer) that the main suspect could be a serial killer.

That police ofﬁcer (Chief Superintendent Steve Fulcher) is played by the always excellent Martin Freeman (it may be unfair to keep referencing him as ‘Tim from The Ofﬁce’ because he has arguably gone on to greater things). Good and all as Freeman is in this series, there’s a stand-out performance from Imelda Staunton, who plays Karen, mother of one of the murdered

women. Meanwhile, Siobhan Finneran (an English-born actress with Roscommon connections) also stars. It’s excellent.

MONDAY

Murphy’s move

So, after over 40 years together, Fianna Fáil and Eugene Murphy have gone their separate ways.

The turning point in their relationship relates to the fall-out from the party’s recent Selection Convention. Grassroot members narrowly voted for Dr Martin Daly as their General Election candidate, but there was an expectation that Murphy – a sitting senator and former TD – would be added on, making a two-member team. It didn’t happen.

Faced with the resulting dilemma, Murphy diagnosed what the problem was, and has now come up with his own proposed remedy. He’ll run as an Independent. Safe to say it’s not what the ‘doctor ordered’ – or wanted – that doctor being Martin Daly.

Leaving the medical terminology aside (to readers’ relief), today’s an-

nouncement by Senator Murphy adds a new dynamic to the campaign now kicking off in Roscommon-Galway.

Dr Martin Daly has certainly got ahead of the posse in recent weeks, and the view is that he will poll very well. Eugene Murphy and others have ground to make up, but the campaign is only ofﬁcially starting this week.

For Murphy, who argues that Roscommon has been badly let down by Fianna Fáil HQ (in not offering a Roscommon candidate/sufﬁcient choice), getting elected as an Independent is a tall order. But he’s an experienced operator, is known throughout the constituency, and will thrive on the challenge.

With regard to the Dáil chamber, it remains to be seen if there will be a (new) ‘Doctor in the House’, or a Murphy Masterstroke. Or both.

TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY

Man gets job back

The dog and I both stayed up half the night to watch coverage of the US election. Actually, the dog began snoring at 1.30 am, but then she probably doesn’t

have my patience/tolerance for wafﬂing TV panellists.

You could almost see the blood drain from the faces of the CNN crew – as it dawned on them that years of antiTrump bias had yielded nothing.

It’s easy to demonise Trump – and some of his behaviour is indefensible – but a shamelessly biased media and an inept Democratic Party grossly underestimated him over recent years.

After Trump’s defeat to Joe Biden in 2020, he persisted in launching a new White House bid, but his critics wrote him off. To them, he was yesterday’s man.

That Trump could withstand so much – political attacks, impeachment, multiple court appearances, assassination attempts, and an almost universally hostile media – and win today’s election, is a testament to his resilience. And greatly to his credit. I can say that, without remotely approving of the man’s morals, etc.

By the way, the media bias against Trump is rampant in Ireland, where some reputable broadcasters have been guilty of obnoxiously smug and sneering coverage over recent years. All this unbalanced media coverage (and lazy caricaturing) played into Trump’s hands. As I wrote last week, he is brilliant at tapping into what matters to people. Trump won this election because of immigration, and the economy. He won it by going on podcasts, by ‘working’ in McDonald’s for a day (both showing him in a great light to ordinary people) – and because he was demonised by media and opponents, many of whom are out of touch with the public. Plus, Kamala Harris turned out to be a very average candidate.

Trump’s win is a phenomenal achievement (and some kicking for his critics). As to what the next four years will hold, only time will tell. It would be nice to think that, fresh from completing his extraordinary comeback, Trump will now try to be a unifying force. We might not hold our breath on that one (I think I see our dog nodding). We live in volatile times. We live in the age of Trumpism. There will be drama, but there will be pragmatism too.

Temporary relocation of Athlone air ambulance is ‘unacceptable’

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway, Claire Kerrane, has criticised the National Ambulance Service (NAS) decision to temporarily relocate the Athlone-based air ambulance to Dublin this month, calling the proposed move “unacceptable”. The air ambulance, which serves as a critical response service for emergencies in Roscommon and surrounding areas, will be moved for six to eight weeks while structural repairs are carried out on the hangar in Athlone.

According to Deputy Kerrane, this decision will signiﬁcantly impact emergency response times for the region. She stated: “Since my election in 2020, I have consistently highlighted issues in the ambulance service in Roscommon. A functioning and properly resourced ambulance service is absolutely critical to a county like Roscommon, which has no Emergency Department”. She added that relocating the air ambulance to Dublin would erode the main beneﬁt of the service for Roscommon: speed.

“It takes about 30 minutes to ﬂy from Dublin to Athlone, which undermines the purpose of the air ambulance in emergency cases,” Deputy Kerrane noted.

According to Kerrane, NAS ofﬁcials had previously committed

to exploring alternative options to avoid lengthy relocations, such as using facilities at Knock Airport or Galway, after a similar relocation last year extended from an expected six to eight weeks to three months.

Kerrane urged the NAS to reconsider these options and warned that the decision points to a worrying trend in NAS management decisions impacting local emergency services. The TD also expressed frustration over previous cutbacks to emergency services in Roscommon, including the removal of 24/7 Advanced Paramedic cover.

“I am getting more and more concerned as to the decisions being made at management level in the

NAS. I will not allow the NAS to do any of this quietly, and I will not stop highlighting these issues,” she concluded.

Senator Eugene Murphy also voiced concerns over the NAS’s approach, stating that he had contacted the NAS directly to address what he described as poor planning and an unsatisfactory response from the service.

“The NAS’s response on this matter has been inadequate,” Murphy said. “This is an urgent issue, and the people of Roscommon deserve better. I am calling for the NAS to prioritise this and explore alternative locations like Knock Airport to ensure minimal disruption to emergency services”.

Monster auction in Tisrara Community Centre, Four Roads

Tisrara Community Sports Park Committee is ﬁnalising preparations for their Monster Auction, which will be held from 2.30 pm on Sunday, November 24th , in Tisrara Community Centre, Four Roads, Roscommon (F42FT91). Items galore will be presented for auction, including agricultural products/services, household utensils and goods, hotel spa and meals vouchers, Smyths Toys vouchers, hampers, beverages, livestock, animal feed and lots more. It is the ideal opportunity for stocking up for Christmas. There’s sure to be something for every age, taste and need, with some fabulous bargains in store. So come early and you won’t be disappointed!

Donations are welcome up to 5 pm on Saturday, November 23rd, by calling to the Community Centre.

Carrick-on-Shannon Community School

ONLINE INFORMATION MEETING

Wednesday 13th November 2024

See www.carrickcs.ie for details

OPEN NIGHT

For Incoming First Years & their Parents/Guardians

Thursday, 28th November 2024 from 7pm – 9 pm

Full details visit: www.carrickcs.ie

Closing date for Applications: Friday, 29th November 2024

Carrick-on-Shannon Community School

Learning at the heart of our Community TELEPHONE: 071 962 0880

APPLICATION TO ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FOR A WASTE FACILITY PERMIT

NOTICE OF RENEWAL OF WASTE FACILITY PERMIT

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Articles 7 and 8 of the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007, as amended, that Christy Connolly intends to apply for a Waste Management Facility Permit at Cloonkeen East, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon for the reception, storage and recovery of end-of-life vehicles and waste vehicles (other than end-of-life vehicles). The application for a waste facility permit will be made to Roscommon County Council within 10 working days of the date of this notice.

The Classes of Activity at the site, as speci ed in the Fourth Schedule of the Waste Management Act 1996 as amended, is as follows:

Class R4. Recycling/reclamation of metals and metal compounds.

Class R5. Recycling/reclamation of other inorganic materials, which includes soil cleaning resulting in recovery of the soil and recycling of inorganic construction materials.

Class R13. Storage of waste pending any of the operations numbered R 1 to R 12 (excluding temporary storage (being preliminary storage according to the de nition of ‘collection’ in section 5(1)), pending collection, on the site where the waste is produced)”.

The principal activity will be Class R13.

The Classes of Activity at the site, as speci ed in the Third Schedule, Part I of the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations, 2007 as amended are as follows:

Class 2. The Reception, storage (including temporary storage) and recovery of waste vehicles (other than end-of-life vehicles) having regard to the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 282 of 2006). Class 4. The reception, storage and recovery of scrap metal, including scrap metal arising from end-of-life vehicles, waste vehicles (other than end-of-life vehicles) and WEEE where scrap metal from – (1) end-of-life vehicles shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery in accordance with the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 282 of 2006) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility, and as appropriate, (2) waste vehicles (other than end-of-life vehicles) shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery having regard to the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 282 of 2006) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility, and as appropriate, (3) WEEE shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery in accordance with the provisions of articles 20, 21 and 22 of the Waste Management (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 340 of 2005) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility. Class 12. The collection and storage (including the temporary storage) and the appropriate treatment and recovery of end-of-life vehicles in accordance with the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 282 of 2006). The principal activity will be Class 12.

A copy of the application for

Fitzmaurice ‘staying put’– Declan Geraghty declares for Galway East

EMMETT CORCORAN

After months of speculation as to his intentions, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has announced that he will seek re-election in the Roscommon-Galway constituency.

Meanwhile, his Independent Ireland colleague Cllr Declan Geraghty, a well-known local businessman and public representative, has conﬁrmed that he will contest the General Election as a candidate in Galway East constituency.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Deputy Fitzmaurice, who ﬁrst secured his Dáil seat in the 2014 Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election, emphasised his loyalty to Roscommon and Galway communities and his resolve to deliver for Rural Ireland.

Fitzmaurice stands ﬁrm

In making the choice to remain in RoscommonGalway, Deputy Fitzmaurice says he is “not running from a challenge” and has in fact made the hard choice.

Geraghty for Galway East

Cllr Geraghty said that he is committed to tackling key issues such as rural crime and dwindling Garda numbers, agriculture, housing, and economic development, and is energised by the opportunity to bring fresh, inde-

pendent representation to Galway East.

“I know the constituency and I know the issues people face every day,” Geraghty said. “I’m honoured to step forward for Galway East and to work for sustainable growth, for our rural communities, and for the values we share across the West”.

Commitment

Both politicians says they remain resolutely focused on strengthening the social and economic fabric of Rural Ireland.

Deputy Fitzmaurice pointed to his track record as an advocate for farmers and rural communities. “From the outset, my work has been about giving a voice to Rural Ireland — whether that’s the farmer in Roscommon or Galway or any part of Ireland, the small business owner, or the hardworking families in every town and village in between. I’ve fought for them since 2014, and I’m not stopping now,” he said.

Of Cllr Geragthy’s candidacy, Deputy Fitzmaurice said:

“The people of the West deserve dedicated representatives who know their needs, and Independent Ireland is giving them that option. De-

clan, like the rest of our team, brings ﬁrst class knowledge of local issues and a strong commitment to our communities”.

Government ambition

Fitzmaurice laid his cards on the table on the issue of Government negotiation talks. While many critics say Fitzmaurice is not seriously interested in going into Government, the straighttalking TD made his position clear, saying he isn’t going to sell his soul for a top job, but if the formula for Government is right, he intends on being at the cabinet table.

“While I know the prevailing notion among many of my critics is that I’ve been to the Government negotiation talks on two occasions and failed to make it into Government, the fact of the matter is that Independent Ireland is a party with policies on every pillar issue from agriculture to housing and crime to rural development.

“As a sitting TD for the party and spokesperson on Agriculture, if I am lucky enough to be reelected by the people of Roscommon-Galway, I have every intention of going into Government – provided our policies are adopted by coalition partners”.

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be holding Church gate collections at local churches over coming weekends.

Collections will be held at St Nathy’s Cathedral in Ballaghader-

reen on both Saturday, November 9th, and Sunday, November 10th

A collection will also be held at St Michael’s Church in Croghan on Sunday, November 10th

Meanwhile, there will be a collection at St Peter and Paul’s Church

in Athlone on both Saturday, November 16th, and Sunday, November 17th.This collection is a great opportunity to raise much-needed funds for animal welfare work and also to raise awareness of the RSPCA’s mission and vision. If you

would like to learn more about the RSPCA, please visit roscommonspca.ie or call 087 0505594. Your support would be greatly appreciated, with all donations received going directly towards animal welfare in the county.

PUBLIC NOTICE



Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice Cllr. Declan Geraghty

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

In awe of devotion of Hospice staff

Following the recent passing of his beloved wife Carol, our columnist Frank Brandon pays tribute to the ‘unbelievable kindness’ shown to his family at their time of grief…

Perception is a peculiar thing. It is only when you experience something yourself that you can know if your original perception was right or wrong.

For me, I have long known about the Hospice Foundation and have had an idea about the great work they do; any time

I was asked, I would make a donation. But over the last week or two, my perception of the Hospice movement has changed totally. Now I am totally in awe of all they do to help mostly very sick people.

A couple of weeks ago, I brought my wife Carol down to Castlebar Hospice, for what we thought would be a few days treatment, after which we would be bringing her home. Sadly, she never made it home and passed away in the Hospice on Saturday night, October 26th.

From the moment we arrived, there was nothing they wouldn’t do for Carol –and indeed for all of us. The wonderful care they gave her was absolutely ﬁrst class.

Everyone was so attentive, so sympathetic, and so caring,

and I couldn’t speak highly enough of all the staff. They were so compassionate and empathetic that I believe they must all have been hand-picked, because their devotion to their profession was something to behold.

On top of all that, we as a family were made to feel so welcome that it never felt like being in a hospital set-up at all, and everything was laid on for us. Even though Carol was in her last few days, she was totally at ease almost right up to her last breath. And so, despite it all ending so sadly for us, I can honestly say that I never knew the Hospice could be such a welcoming and amazing place. As well as the wonderful staff, the facility itself was an absolute credit,

with beautiful rooms for the patients and a superb canteen where we could partake of the superb food. On two occasions, Carol was even able to actually join us while we ate.

And so, the original perception that I had of the Hospice Foundation, while acknowledging the good work they do, was way off the mark – I really had no idea of the extent of the care that they provided for the patients and their families and I have to sincerely express our total gratitude to all who helped to make Carol’s ﬁnal days so comfortable. I know that none of us want to have to put any of our loved ones into a Hospice, but I can assure you that after our experience, they couldn’t be in a better place.

So grateful for community support

It’s Monday evening as I write, nine days since I lost my beloved wife Carol, and I am reﬂecting on an event that we already know will sadly change all of my family’s lives forever.

However, in the midst of all the sadness and grief, there were several happenings for which we will be eternally grateful. Chief among them was the overwhelming support we received from our neighbours, friends, and the local community.

I had always heard it said that Irish people rallied round when someone was in trouble, but I really don’t think we were prepared for the unbelievable kindness and generosity we were shown by everyone. From the time the news of Carol’s passing broke, the number of friends, neighbours and relatives arriving at the door with tray upon tray of beautiful sandwiches, pots of soup, dinners, every kind of goodie imaginable and even an odd drop of the quare stuff, along with offers of help, was extraordinary. We cannot thank them enough for their unwavering support.

So many people came with food offerings that we lost total track of who brought what, and there are loads of trays, plates and heating dishes in our house that certainly don’t belong to us. So don’t be shy, call over some time and we will be delighted to give you back your belongings.

On Monday evening of last week, so many people queued at Smyth’s Funeral Home to pay their respects that we were a bit overawed by it all. The ceremony on the Tuesday, performed by our own PP, Fr Donal Morris, was really beautiful, and was

made even more special by the fabulous musical performance of my good friend, the wonderful singer Annette Grifﬁn, who was accompanied on the guitar and keyboard by John Staunton.

I don’t deny that I was quite stressed by everything that was going on, but Pat Smyth of Smyth’s Undertakers literally took care of everything, for which I can’t thank him enough.

And yet again my local neighbours came up trumps when they helped Brian O’Rourke, who did a really lovely job, with the closing and tidying up of the grave.

After all that, we adjourned to Mikeen’s, where the excellent local Maloney lads (Delicious Catering) supplied a superb dinner to us all. And, as Carol wanted, we celebrated her life for a few hours with family and friends. Since then, there have been many messages of condolence posted on RIP.ie, while a large number of people have gone to the trouble of sending Mass Cards and letters of sympathy to our house.

This is not our ofﬁcial thank you to everyone, but just my reﬂection on the week that was. There are so many others to thank – including doctors, nurses, Creggs GAA and rugby clubs, and loads of individuals –who performed miracles to get to Carol’s funeral – and we will hopefully get to acknowledge everyone at a later date. But for now, at time of writing nine tough days (and nights) later, we are just so grateful to you all. You have helped to make our suffering a little more bearable.

Annual Memorial Mass in Derrane

County Roscommon Disability Support Group CLG, (RSG) is celebrating their Annual Memorial Mass for all service users, sta and family members in the Dale Centre, Derrane (F42 WK 60) on Friday, 8th of November 2024 at 12 noon. Families and friends of the deceased (RIP) are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served afterwards. All welcome.

Mega Autojumble in Glenamaddy

A Mega Autojumble will be held by North Galway Vintage & Heritage Club on Sunday, 10th of November (starting at 9 am) in Glenamaddy Equestrian Centre (F45VP66).

Up to 50 Autojumble stands will be present. Indoor and outdoor spaces. Catering provided on the day. For more, contact Danny on 087 2510622 or 086 8510445 or Paul on 086 4088466.

Candlelight Rosary and prayers for the Holy Souls

The candlelight Rosary and prayers for the Holy Souls will take place in the Creggs/Glinsk area at 6 pm every Friday evening for the month of November – every alternative week at Kilcolumb (November 8th and 22nd) and Ballinakill (November 15th and 29th).

Refreshments will be served on the last evening (November 29th) in Dowd’s Lounge. All are welcome to attend.

People are invited to light a battery or outdoor candle in memory of their family and friends.

Historical Society lecture on Arigna 1919-23

A meeting of the Co Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will take place at 8 pm on Tuesday, 12th of November at the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Tulsk.

Following the meeting at 8.30 pm (sharp) a lecture will take place entitled ‘The Arigna Valley through Revolution and Civil War’ which will be given by Oisin O’Driscoll. All are welcome.

Lisnamult Indoor Market on Sunday

The next Lisnamult Indoor Market will be held at Lisnamult Community Centre in Roscommon Town on Sunday, 10th of November from 11.30 am to 3 pm. Eircode is F42 NN72. Tables still available. Tel 086 3147053 for more details.

Bridge Club

The following are the latest results from local Bridge Clubs: Roscommon Bridge Club (Hurley Cup) – 1st: Mary & Vincent Brennan; 2nd: Tresina & Tommie Murphy; 3rd: Maurice Buckley & Larry Shine. 1st Session: Chris & John McGrath; 2nd Session: Mary & Terry O’Kee e. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Mary & Terry O’Kee e; 2nd: Olive Fahy & Judy Adamson; Gross: Tommie Murphy & June Halliday.

St Coman’s Bridge Club – 1st: Kitty Dowd & Celia Ansboro; 2nd: Theresa McDermott & Mary Lennon; Gross: Maura Moran & Agnes Murray. Ballymurray Bridge Club – 1st: Evelyn Curley & Judy Adamson; 2nd: Ann Igoe & James Walsh; Gross: Rita Roughneen & Maria Hickey. Kilbride Bridge Club (North/South) – 1st: Eileen Dowling & Margaret Scott; 2nd: Bridie & Tom Moran. (East/West) – 1st: Brid Gillooly & Frances Keane; 2nd: Pauline Leonard & Margaret Mullen.

Athlone councillors seeking injunction to halt plans for 1,000 more asylum seekers

 EMMETT CORCORAN

Councillors from Athlone and Moate have announced plans to seek a legal injunction to halt the construction of temporary accommodation for 1,000 male asylum seekers in Athlone.

The decision, made unanimously at a special meeting on Wednesday, 30th of October, follows concerns that the Department of Integration approved the project without consulting the local community.

The proposed accommodation site in Lissywollen would house applicants from the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS). However, Athlone Municipal District councillors argue that the development could have adverse effects on public health, local amenities, and trafﬁc in the area.

Councillor Paul Hogan explained, “We made the decision based on our concerns and the community’s concerns about public health; about the impact on local amenities and the impact on trafﬁc on any road in the vicinity”.

The councillors plan to use their authority under the Local Government Reform Act 2014 to block the development, asserting that the Act grants local authorities powers to control the construction of temporary dwellings. They believe this authority challenges the Department of Integration’s reliance

on Section 181 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, which was recently amended to allow asylum accommodation developments to bypass standard planning permission requirements.

Last week, Midlands-NorthWest MEP for Independent Ireland, Ciaran Mullooly appeared on the Tonight Show on Virgin Media supporting the decision by local councillors. He asserted that the decision to house 1,000 single males in an area that had seen migrant families living peacefully for 20 years without any consultation should not be allowed happen, noting that despite the Government’s rhetoric in recent months the lack of proper consultation has continued. “They have learned nothing” he said. MEP Mullooly also noted during the TV show that the decision by councillors in Athlone is a unanimous one taken by Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, Labour, Independent, and Independent Ireland councillors in the Municipal District. When the legal action proceeds, it will mark the ﬁrst time a local authority has contested a State decision on asylum accommodation on planning grounds. The outcome could set a precedent for other municipal districts facing similar developments without local consultation.

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

Cllr Paul Hogan.

Ballaghaderreen residents rally over crime fears and Garda numbers

Action demanded after tense week

 EMMETT CORCORAN

A crowd of over 400 people gathered in Ballaghaderreen on Sunday, 3rd of November last to voice alarm over increasing crime in the area, a response prompted by an alleged serious assault on a 15-year-old boy in the town in the early hours of Friday morning.

Sunday’s protest began at 5 pm in the car park of St Nathy’s Cathedral, with attendees holding a candlelit vigil as they walked to the local Garda station, demanding immediate action and an enhanced Garda presence.

The demonstration was organised by Ballaghaderreen Concerned Citizens, led by chairperson Sharon Byrne Murphy, who expressed frustration over what the community views as inadequate Garda resources.

Local Independent councillor Micheál Frain and Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane joined the protest, both emphasising the need for more visible policing in the area.

In a stark incident on the night before the protest, a group of between 20 and 40 individuals, reportedly wearing balaclavas, caused damage to two proper-

A crowd of over 400 people gathered in Ballaghaderreen on Sunday, 3rd of November last to voice alarm over increasing crime in the area. Photo courtesy of Cllr Paul Lawless Facebook page

ties in Ballaghaderreen. Gardaí are currently investigating that incident and the alleged assault on Thursday night/Friday morning, the latter an incident that greatly heightened tensions in the area.

Byrne Murphy, who founded the Concerned Citizens group in March, indicated that these tensions have been brewing for some time.

“We believe the assault last Thursday/ Friday could have been avoided,” she said, while also highlighting increases in shoplifting and other anti-social disturbances as signs of a broader problem.

Deputy Claire Kerrane, who represents Roscommon/Galway, raised these concerns with An Taoiseach in the Dáil, urging the Government to prioritise Garda allocation in rural areas like Ballaghaderreen. Deputy Kerrane expressed pride in her community’s unity, noting, “There is a level of fear in the community, but in Ballaghaderreen, there is deﬁance and unity for positive action”.

She highlighted that despite ofﬁcially allocated Garda numbers, residents rarely see ofﬁcers on the beat, which

she argued affects community morale and safety. The TD stressed that this is not the fault of Gardaí themselves, whom she said “are under pressure and stretched”.

Independent Ireland’s Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has also weighed in, publicly calling on the Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice to restore “common-sense community-based policing” in the area. Deputy Fitzmaurice stressed that a consistent Garda presence is vital to address these issues and prevent further incidents.

Councillor Michéal Frain voiced his concern over a lack of fully staffed Garda services, especially given the town’s recent population growth. Frain recounted a tense exchange during Sunday’s vigil, where he challenged a heckler, whom he accused of stoking divisions, stating “Ballaghaderreen is a tight-knit community. While we may have differences, we stand united on serious issues like this”.

The protest underscored Ballaghaderreen’s demand for immediate action, with community leaders and residents alike hoping that their uniﬁed message will prompt Garda HQ to prioritise the town and consider a dedicated rural policing plan.

According to Cllr Frain, Gardaí have had a “good solid” policing plan in place since the unrest of the past weekend; however he noted a permanent solution is needed, sooner rather later. On social media, Gardaí posted a notice stating that there was “a signiﬁcant degree of misinformation in circulation online” and clarifying that their investigation into the alleged assault on a 15-year-old boy “does not involve anyone seeking international protection”. Further developments on this issue may unfold in the coming days as local representatives continue to advocate for a more robust response from the Garda Commissioner and the Government.

Building a brighter future for sport in Roscommon

Earley Centre of Excellence

project granted €5.5m

Roscommon GAA this week described as “a significant milestone” the news that the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence will receive €5.5 million in funding from the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) 2024.

In a statement, Roscommon GAA said: “This funding represents a major boost for our community, paving the way for a world class facility that will further develop Gaelic games in Roscommon and serve as a proud home for our players, supporters, and the wider community.

“The €5.5 million allocation will be directed towards developing essential facilities at the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence, including a modern clubhouse, gym, training pitches, and a dedicated training area. Additionally, floodlighting will be installed, enabling us to maximise the use of the facilities throughout the year”.

Roscommon GAA said this support “marks an essential step forward in realising our vision for a comprehensive development that will meet the needs of current and future generations of boys and girls, men and women”.

The GAA continued: “We would like to thank our public representatives who have supported us throughout this journey. A special word of

thanks to all of the volunteers who contributed to this project to date, Roscommon County Council, Connacht GAA, Croke Park, the various schools in the region and the National Governing Bodies who have given their unwavering support to the funding application.

“As part of a broader allocation of €173.25 million across 35 facilities in Ireland, the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence stands as a testament to Roscommon GAA’s commitment to building a premier space for sports and community. While this funding lays a strong foundation, we remain committed to seeking additional resources to fully realise our ambitious plans for the Centre of Excellence.

“We look forward to continuing this journey

Design team appointed for new sporting facilities

Contracts have been signed for the appointment of an architect-led design team to progress a major new community sporting facilities in the heart of Roscommon town.

McAdam Design have been appointed as design team lead for the new community sports facility, with works to commence immediately on the preliminary design and statutory consent phase of the project. Subject to planning approval, an application for funding to progress the project through the construction phase will be made by Roscommon County Council.

The initial design concept proposes the creation of an indoor four-court sports hall, two multipurpose studio spaces and changing facilities, a grass pitch, an outdoor fitness park and play park, and an outdoor, multisport, multi-lined, and floodlit artificial

pitch. The development also proposes a perimeter trail enabling recreational walking along with ancillary services for both indoor and outdoor facilities.

The proposed pitches and trails will be located on the Convent of Mercy Secondary School sports grounds, currently managed by the school and owned by the Educena Foundation, who are the key stakeholders and joint applicants in Roscommon County Council’s application to the Department of Transport Tourism and Sport Large Capital Infrastructure programme.

Speaking following the announcement, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan said the development would be a major boost to the county’s sporting and leisure infrastructure.

“This news is a very positive step

in the provision of modern, top class sporting facilities in Roscommon”, he said. “These facilities will be enjoyed, not just by local sporting organisations but also by community groups and children attending our local schools.

“The new complex, when complete, will make Roscommon and its hinterland the envy of many other counties for the sporting facilities it will have to offer”, said Mr Tiernan.

Speaking following the announcement, Principal of Roscommon Convent of Mercy Secondary School Miriam Hunt remarked, “We are delighted to be associated with this project and look forward to continuing our collaboration with Roscommon County Council and the site owners, the Educena Foundation, on behalf of the Roscommon Convent of Mercy Secondary School”.

with our community, and we are grateful for the ongoing support that makes these dreams possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for sport in Roscommon. This facility will be a superb resource for Roscommon and the wider regional area from both a social participation and economic perspective”.

Dolan expresses delight at news

Welcoming the funding, Fine Gael senator Aisling Dolan said the project will have a very positive impact in County Roscommon.

“Well done to Roscommon GAA, Chairperson Brian Carroll and the Executive Committee. I know it’s the result of such hard work.

“A new ‘use it or lose it’ rule is being implemented to ensure there will be timely delivery of these projects, guaranteeing that Roscommon will benefit in the near future.

“This funding will help everyone in the region to access high-quality sports facilities, regardless of background or ability.

“Everybody deserves to have the opportunity to feel the benefits of sport, and I am pleased to see there was a particular focus in these applications on ensuring equal access for men and women as well as those with a disability”.

Senator Dolan added: “Large scale projects like these become crucial hubs of towns and villages, and communities in Roscommon will also benefit from the economic and social boosts that will come from their delivery.

“I have worked closely with sports clubs across Roscommon and if elected to Dáil Éireann will make sure their value continues to be recognised at a national level”.

Pictured at the signing of the design team contract were (front row) Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council), Cllr Larry Brennan (Leas Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council), and Barry Kane (Design Team Lead, McAdam Design). Back row: Neal Geraghty (Senior Executive Engineer), Mark Keaveney (Director of Services), Miriam Hunt (Principal, Convent of Mercy Secondary School, Roscommon), and Enda Mulryan (Acting Senior Engineer, Roscommon County Council).

Over-60s ‘climate programme’ now underway in Ballygar

A free six-week programme aimed at supporting the over60s population in reducing their carbon footprint has commenced in Ballygar Courthouse.

Having started last Tuesday, it will continue (from 10 am to noon) on the following dates: November 12th, November 19th, November 26th, December 3rd, and January 7th. The workshop is being hosted by Jacinta Barrins, CEO of the 60+ Climate Drive.

This programme offers participants a friendly space to learn about and discuss climate change, with a focus on how to calculate one’s carbon footprint, what actions have a high/medium/low greenhouse gas impact, the positive changes that can be made, and the supports available to do just that.

If you are interested in taking part in the programme, please contact Nuala McDonagh of Ballygar Tidy Towns on 086 3636007 or via email at mcdonaghnuala56@ gmail.com, or any member of Ballygar Tidy Towns. Contact Jacinta Barrins at CC60PLUS@outlook.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

‘Try a little prayerful kindness’

Athleague, Co Roscommon

Dear Editor,

Our Lord Jesus Christ made 19 promises to Mary Martha Chambon, from Chambery, Savoie, France (18411907) for devotion towards his Holy wounds. His 14th promise is .. “This aspiration must often be repeated near the sick…” “My Jesus, pardon and mercy through the merits of thy holy wounds’”. This prayer will solace soul and body.

This aspiration can be repeated often to help people we meet in our daily lives who need God’s help with their health.

We may not know what help they need, but we can say this prayer as we pass them by. This aspiration repeated often can help people in our villages, towns, cities, everywhere, and help people recover in nursing homes and hospitals everywhere.

Yours faithfully, Chris O’Gara

Three males arrested in connection with recent burglaries

As part of an ongoing investigation into organised criminal activity and burglaries in Mayo, Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath and Sligo, Gardaí arrested three males in the Dublin Metropolitan Region this week.

The operation involved the search of four properties in the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) where North Western Region personnel were assisted by members from the Armed Sup-

port Unit, DMR West and DMR South along with DMR Regional support and members from Athlone. It was part of an investigation into 29 burglaries in counties Mayo, Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath and Sligo.

During the course of the searches, property was seized which is believed to be the proceeds of organised criminal activity, which included a Rolex watch, designer handbags and shoes, and substantial amounts of cash. Other property recovered included mobile phones, multiple car keys, and log books of vehicles.

Three males (aged 26, 21 and a juvenile) were arrested on Tuesday and taken to Garda stations in the Mayo/Roscommon/Longford Division, where they were detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007.

Daly calls for ‘fair pay’ for carers

General Election candidate Dr Martin Daly has called for an end to means-testing for the Carer’s Allowance in Ireland.

In a press statement, Dr Daly advocates for moving to a universal payment system that would provide ﬁnancial support to all fulltime carers, regardless of income, recognising the vital role they play in supporting loved ones and alleviating pressures on the healthcare system.

“The current means-tested system creates unnecessary obstacles and financial strain for many carers who are already carrying a significant burden,” Dr Daly stated. “By moving to a universal Carer’s Allowance, we can simplify access, reduce the stress of financial assessments, and ensure that all carers receive the support they deserve.

“This requires careful planning to balance the increased costs, but

Public meeting in Castlerea on mooted indoor swimming pool

A public meeting will be held tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm in Tully’s Hotel, Castlerea, to discuss plans for the provision of a heated, indoor swimming pool.

Councillor Anthony Waldron, who has arranged the meeting, has long advocated for such a facility, having previously submitted a proposal to include it as an objective in the County Development Plan.

Cllr Waldron believes that Castlerea and its surrounding areas now have the population to support the project, which he sees as a positive step for community health and wellbeing.

the value that carers bring to society is immeasurable,” Dr Daly emphasised. “It’s time we recognise their contributions without subjecting them to unnecessary ﬁnancial scrutiny”.

Dr Daly’s proposal highlights the

critical role of carers as integral to both families and the healthcare system. He is pledging to advocate for this and other measures that would bring meaningful change to the lives of carers and their families across Ireland.

“More people are becoming healthconscious, and swimming is proven to beneﬁt the body,” he noted, adding that such a facility could also make Castlerea more attractive to investors by providing an important amenity for the local workforce.

On Thursday last, the Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign A airs and Minister for Defence Michèal Martin spent some time canvassing with the party’s

General Election candidate Dr Martin Daly in Roscommon and Castlerea.

Pictured at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were the Tànaiste, Abbey Hotel management, the party’s candidate Dr Martin Daly and members of Mr Daly’s canvassing team. Photos: Pete Daly

Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire brings ‘Abba

Mia’ to life in a spirited school production

< EMMETT CORCORAN

When our Editor Paul Healy handed me the assignment to cover Abba Mia, Coláiste Mhuire’s latest school production – to be staged at the Mattie McDonagh Centre in Ballygar – I initially saw it as just another story. But from the moment I arrived with my colleague Michael (photography and videography), I realised this production was something special.

The hall was quiet at first, with around 20 students dotted about, returning from their lunch break.

Within minutes, the space flooded with nearly 80 students from all year groups, buzzing with energy and anticipation.

Ms Carmel O’Shea, the Musical Producer, greeted us warmly as students milled around, chatting in groups and gearing up for their interviews and photoshoot. Ms O’Shea, who recently retired after 32 years of service at Coláiste Mhuire, explained that this would likely be her last production, a statement met with good-natured scepticism by colleagues who insist her talents will be in demand for years to come. Eamon Madden and John O’Leary are the two

remaining members of the original production team, alongside Carmel O’Shea, since the school’s first musical production in 1995”

This year’s show, running from November 14th to 16th, marks the school’s first musical production in six years, a gap largely due to the disruptions of recent pandemic-related years.

Ms O’Shea and the faculty have been focused on helping students regain their academic footing since then, but the school felt it was finally time to bring a musical back, sparking excitement among students and staff alike.

With nearly 80 students from first to sixth year involved, this production has become an entire school community effort. Ms Eilish Beirne, the Director, shared that the entire faculty has pitched in: woodwork teacher John O’Leary has built the set, the home economics team took on costume creation, and the art department, led by Miriam Cuddy and Elaine Ryan, transformed

the space with their setpainting expertise. Miriam and Elaine also worked tirelessly on preparing promotional posters (designed by Alyssa Galvin, a fifth year art student). Tom Hannon, the school’s caretaker, and secretary Anna Burke have also played essential roles, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Special thanks also go to Teresa Clogher for her work on the musical booklet. In addition, the support of the school management made it possible for the core production team of (along with Eilish) Carmel O’Shea, Danny Arnold, Emily Staunton, Emma Healy, Laura Murray and Thelma Cunniffe to work with the students to focus on the musical.

Participation in the production was open to all students, which led to an intensive two-month process of auditions and rehearsals, ultimately allowing students across year groups to bond in unique ways. Shane Beirne from Creggs, who plays Sky,

shared that the experience, though new for him, was “good craic” and a rewarding step out of his comfort zone. Aaron Delaney, a third-year who plays Pepper, is carrying on a family tradition. In fact, Aaron revealed that his mother had played one of the leading roles in the school’s first musical, Oklahoma, in 1995, a fact that highlights just how deep these traditions run at Coláiste Mhuire.

During our conversation, Aaron proudly demonstrated his new skill of ‘clicking’, a jazzy finger snap that became an inside joke during rehearsals. Aaron’s excitement mirrored the large sense of pride in the hall as Ms Beirne spoke of the students’ growing confidence, evident in every corner. From the choir to students changing into vibrant 1970s disco costumes, the enthusiasm was infectious, even if a few of the cast were initially hesitant about sporting their platform shoes.

Pictured back, left to right are: Carmel O’Shea, Emily Staunton, Laura Murray and Eilish Beirne. Front, left to right: Thelma Cunniffe, Danny Arnold and Emma Healy. Pictures: Michael Finan.

Members of the cast of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’ .

Members of the cast of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’

Members of the cast of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’ .

As I was talking with the teachers, students poured in for photoshoots in Hawaiian shirts that would make Derek Trotter jealous, a thought that probably ages me more than I would like to admit.

Sixth years Adam Kenny and Harry O’Sullivan, key cast members in their final school year, admitted they were juggling a lot. But both noted that being part of Abba Mia has actually improved their focus and time management, a balance they’re proud of, especially as role models for younger students. Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of the production, as they encourage their peers to give their best.

Laura Murray shared how seeing students embrace both the discipline and the fun of the production was one of the most rewarding parts of the process.

When asked about highlights, Thelma Cunniffe and Emma Healy recom-

mended the song ‘Does Your Mother Know?’ for its energy and spirit. Assisted by choreographer Triona Mulryan, these teachers have worked intensively with the students, predominantly transition year pupils, who naturally had more time for dance practice. The team confirmed that after such a long pause, the entire school community shared an eager “hunger” to see the musical return, a sentiment they felt physically resonated in the room.

After a nearly two-hour photoshoot, capped off with a ‘bualadh bos’ for cast, crew, and faculty, students dispersed, some returning to classes and others staying for further rehearsals. The faculty members, meanwhile, had their minds on the evening’s parent-teacher meeting, yet another layer of dedication on display. Wrapping up the day, Ms Beirne emphasised the team effort that makes this production pos-

sible, expressing her hope that everyone, from the cast to the community, will look back with pride.

Reflecting on my time there, I was struck by how the pandemic years had impacted Coláiste Mhuire, especially with an entire student body that had never been part of a school musical. Yet, rather than diminishing social cohesion, the pandemic seemed to strengthen the bonds

among students, whose enthusiasm for Abba Mia is a testament to their resilience. Ms O’Shea’s quiet pride and her pivotal role were unmistakable, even as she credited her colleagues for the success of the production.

This year’s Abba Mia is not just a musical, it is a celebration of community, commitment, and the unmatched joy of performance.

Members of the cast of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’ .

Members of the cast of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’

Members of the choir of Ballygar’s Coláiste Mhuire production of ‘Abba Mia’ . Pictures: Michael Finan.

Maintaining focus on the real issues… why Ballaghaderreen community

is to be commended

Let’s talk about

There’s an unfortunate situation we’ve generally come to expect when we hear news of a protest in a rural town these days.

After all, time and time again we’ve seen similar news stories devolve into the same situation; a rural community attempting to call attention to genuine issues in their area have their protests so completely derailed by disruptive opportunists and far-right agitators, that this is what the entire story becomes about. The voices of the affected are quickly muffled out, their problems endure or worsen, and the situation repeats. Last weekend in fact, we very nearly saw this exact situation play out in one of our own local towns: Ballaghaderreen.

It will be little news to regular Roscommon People readers that crime in Ballaghaderreen, as well as in a number of other local rural towns and villages, has been on the rise. And the heightened occurrence of a number of incidents, from burglaries and anti-social behaviour to vandalism and violent attacks, coupled with the continued perception that the Government has failed to give this problem adequate attention (never mind properly address it), has prompted a slew of public demonstrations.

We have seen communities, activists, and certain local politicians making keen and admirable efforts to protest against the increase in rural crime and lack of Government action in response. And given the current climate, this is something that now must be done in tandem with staying conscious and vigilant of how such activism could be easily derailed by those looking to engage in mob-like anti-social behaviour, or to frame it in a way that fuels a hateful political agenda.

As mentioned, Ballaghaderreen is among a number of local areas which has been suffering from a lack of resources and experiencing rising crime levels. There are quite a few examples to point to from across recent months, but perhaps none capture the level of the severity associated with the ongoing situation better than what occurred in the town last weekend. It was reported nationally last weekend that a serious violent assault had been carried out against a teenager on the town’s Main Street, shortly after midnight. And matters only intensified on Saturday, when a group of up to 40 people (allegedly in balaclavas) took to the streets of Ballaghaderreen, prompting even more fear for residents and leading to damage to two properties.

On Sunday, over 400 residents gathered in the town for a vigil/crime protest, demonstrating against the lack of resources and adequate policing in the town, as well as publicly displaying the community’s solidarity – not just with the young victim

allegedly assaulted a few days before, but also as a community as a whole.

And as well as successfully holding a large-scale protest to bring attention to the issues being experienced in the area, Sunday also saw the community of Ballaghaderreen successfully sidestep the same pitfall that so many other rural towns have been unable to avoid when holding their own protests in recent months. Because again, as we have (unfortunately) come to expect, Ballaghaderreen residents were not the only attendees fighting to make a point at the recent demonstration.

The assault alleged to have taken place in the early hours of last Friday morning had, within the couple of days, caught the attention of far-right commentators, as well as some agitators online, eager to spin the story away from the central issue of rural crime and into a blanket (and utterly unfounded) condemnation of the non-Irish members of the community. Blatant misinformation was espoused, from referring to the assault as a “gang rape” to claiming the perpetrator(s) responsible were refugees, to the point where Gardaí had to put out a misinformation notice to shut down these false claims. As is their pattern, some of these agitators then turned up to last Sunday’s protest. Their intrusion at this event had the potential to obscure the reality of the very real problems Ballaghaderreen has been fighting to have addressed for so long, and to spark divide between residents in the community by placing the blame squarely on a subsection of

that same community. But fortunately, such efforts were largely quashed.

Following the protest, several videos cropped up on social media, depicting farright agitators’ interactions with residents. Clips taken by these agitators themselves show exchanges with residents wherein they unsuccessfully attempt to present the situation as being monolithically the fault of the town’s immigrant population – as if these residents don’t have an infinitely better idea of what is going on in their own town, and as if this isn’t the community whose open embrace of its newer, non-Irish neighbours has seen the town held up as a model of integration nationally. One particularly viral video showed notorious outside agitator Philip Dwyer attempt to disrupt proceedings by interrupting local councillor Micheál Frain during his speech at the event.

“You’re a mouthpiece and we know you are,” Frain shot back, eliciting cheers from the local crowd. “You’ve been going around the length and breadth of the country stirring hatred. The people of Ballaghaderreen will stand together as they have always done”. It is widely felt that these people do not have any real interest in the welfare of towns like Ballaghaderreen or their residents. And it is only more evidenced by their approach at last Sunday’s event, by their attempts to divide a community particularly known for, and proud of, standing in solidarity with each other –Irish or non-Irish.

Ballaghaderreen is an area where enormous

efforts have been made to make sure theirs remains an open and inclusive community while taking in a huge influx of new residents over the years. But Ballaghaderreen’s openness and community spirit – while enduringly commendable, and only more so amid recent rising tensions – can only go so far to ensuring a rise in population that drastic doesn’t have significant negative knock-on effects.

An increase of the scale Ballaghaderreen’s population has experienced puts enormous pressure on a town’s resources. A ramping up of resources needs to happen in tandem when such influxes occur. But this has not been realised in Ballaghaderreen – in fact in some areas, such as Garda coverage and presence, resources have been ramped down. There is a lack of appropriate housing, educational resources, doctors… the list goes on.

The people of Ballaghaderreen have done their part; they have welcomed new residents with open arms, they have identified and highlighted to their representatives what more they need for the town, and they have swiftly and resolutely shut down those who would happily hijack their plight for their own baseless and fear-spreading agenda. Maintaining focus on the real issues in a situation like this is something that has become increasingly difficult these days, but this is what the Ballaghaderreen community has done and they should be commended for it. It is essential now that authorities listen to the community’s demands for more protection and take strong, effective steps to ensure meaningful action.

Alannah Ita Healy

(A student’s perspective)

Ballaghaderreen

Pictured at last Sunday’s protest in Ballaghaderreen.

Ballincollig takes TidyTowns honours

Success for Roscommon entries

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD announced Ballincollig, Co Cork as Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2024 on Friday.

Over 600 TidyTowns volunteers were present at the SuperValu TidyTowns awards ceremony at Croke Park in Dublin with the event live-streamed to many more online.

This year, 904 towns were competing for the prestigious awards demonstrating the continuing huge national interest in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition, which has been running since 1958.

Ballincollig, Co Cork was named as Ireland’s Tidiest Town as well as Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre. Minister Humphreys also presented the Young Person in TidyTowns award to Ballyphehane TidyTowns, Co Cork as well as the ‘Town Centre First National Award’ to Carrickmacross TidyTowns, Co Monaghan recognising their tremendous efforts to address vacancy and dereliction in line with the Government’s ‘Town Centre First‘ policy.

Some of the other big winners on the day included: Ballinahown, Co Westmeath was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Village; Blackrock, Co Louth was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town; Westport, Co Mayo was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Large Town; Ballincollig, Co Cork was awarded Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre.

In County Roscommon, Keadue was gold medal winner in Category A with 384 points. Castlecoote took silver with 378 points with Ballintubber in third, just one point back.

In Category C (for small towns) Tarmonbarry won a bronze medal, while Roscommon Town won gold in the ‘large towns’ category.

Keadue wins County Roscommon award

Keadue won the County Roscommon award and a 14th Gold Medal with 384 marks, up 11 marks on their 2023 result and only 2 marks behind overall winner Ballincollig (Co Cork).Keadue Tidy Towns would like to thank the entire community, volunteers, Scoil Cill Ronain, and all

the local committees for their ongoing support. “Thanks also to our RSS worker Shane, Roscommon County Council, and our local SuperValu”. Pictured are members of Keadue Tidy Towns along with Carrick-onShannon Tidy Towns members (County winners in Leitrim).

Pictured at the 2024 SuperValu TidyTowns competition awards ceremony in Croke Park were (centre) Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of SuperValu; Tom Butler, Chairperson, Ballincollig Tidy Town Committee; and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, along with members of the Ballincollig Tidy Towns Committee (overall national winners). Pic: Naoise Culhane

Members of the Ballintubber and Roscommon Tidy Towns committees celebrate at the award ceremonies in Dublin where they both received two awards.

Pictured at the 2024 SuperValu TidyTowns competition awards ceremony in Croke Park were (centre, from left) Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of SuperValu; Helen Conneely, Chairperson, Ballinahowan, Co Westmeath Tidy Towns Committee; and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, along with members of the Ballinahowan, Co Westmeath Tidy Towns Committee. Pic: Naoise Culhane

Cllr Tom Crosby, Secretary of Tarmonbarry Development & Tidy Towns Association with his wife Pauline pictured receiving the bronze award on behalf of the Tarmonbarry Tidy Towns Association from Minister Heather Humphreys on Friday morning last in Croke Park. Tarmonbarry increased their total this year by 11 marks to 367 and are now just 19 marks behind the national winners, Ballincollig in Co Cork (at 386 marks).

FarmingPeople

ICMSA cheesed off as Dutch cheese included in State school meals

The President of ICMSA, Denis Drennan, has said that reports that cheese supplied to children under the School Meals Programme operated by the Department of Social Protection is, in some cases, Dutch cheddar is “surreal” and was nothing less than an “insult” to Ireland’s hardpressed 18,000 dairy farmers.

Drennan said we were now in a situation where the Irish dairy sector and promotional agencies were going around the world proclaiming the beneﬁts of our

unrivalled dairy products, while our own children –including the children of dairy farmers – were being given Dutch cheese by our own Government. The ICMSA President said that the whole episode came under the ‘You Couldn’t Make It Up’ category.

“We received a complaint from a member whose primary school going child was given some Dutch cheddar under the auspices of the School Meals Programme operated by the Department of Social Protection”, he commented.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Cattle: There was a large entry of stock on o er at last Friday’s special sale of bullocks (November 1st).

Bullocks fetched an average of €3.22 per kilo up to €4.36 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.31 per kilo up to €2.93 per kilo. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active.

Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.31 per kilo up to €2.93 per kilo. Sample prices: two CHX -897KG -€2450 -€2.73 per kg, CHX765KG- €2180- €2.85 per kg, SIX -655KG€1740- €2.66 per kg, AAX -770KG -€1930€2.51 per kg, CHX-755KG- €1990- €2.64 per kg, CHX-655KG -€1920- €2.93 per kg, and LMX- 635KG- €1600-€2.52 per kg.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €3.22 per kilo up to €4.36 per kilo.

Weanlings

ICMSA welcome review into ACRES

Speaking following the announcement by the Minister of Agriculture Food and the Marine that there will be a review into the ‘ﬂagship’ ACRES environmental scheme for farmers, the Deputy President of ICMSA welcomed the move.

Eamon Carroll, who also chairs the association’s Farm and Rural Affairs Committee, said there is a real lack of conﬁdence in ACRES at present and that trust and belief in the scheme needs to be instilled or the scheme will not only ‘ﬁzzle out’ in the coming years but erode the enthusiasm of farmers for participation in future schemes.

“ICMSA acknowledge the ‘bandwidth’ that the ACRES scheme is covering, and we have tried to be positive about the scheme from the start”, he said. “But the undeniable facts are that the scheme has underperformed and has fallen well short of what was going to be require, both in terms of administration and payments.

“It’s just been wholly inadequate and has never really established itself as the kind of ‘ﬂagship’ agri-environmental scheme it was meant to be – and which farmers would have welcomed.

“If ICMSA is going to participate in such a review – and we would be happy to do so – then we’ll want an assurance that all the recommendations arising from such a review will be implemented: the Department cannot ask us all for diagnose what’s wrong with ACRES and then pick and choose the solutions to the problems identiﬁed”, said Mr Carroll.

There was a large entry of quality weanlings on o er at our sale held on Tuesday evening, November 5th, with a strong trade for bulls and heifers. Our next sale will be held on Tuesday, November 12th Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.56 per kilo up to €4.93 per kilo, heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.70 per kilo up to €9.71, and cows made an average of €3.54 per kilo up to €4.33 per kilo. There was a very good attendance of

“We obviously cannot give any identifying details beyond saying that the particular area concerned is one of the most traditional and famous milk-producing districts in the State, and the fact that an Irish Government Department could not – or would not – be bothered to source Irish cheese speaks volumes about the real attitude that hides behind all the lip service and platitudes”.

Noting that Irish dairy products were scientiﬁcally proven to involve lower

customers ringside with online buyers also active.

Bull weanlings ranged from an average of €3.56 per kilo up to €4.93 per kilo. Sample prices: CHX- 345KG -€1700 -€4.93 per kg, BBX- 350KG- €1600- €4.57 per kg, CHX325KG- €1580- €4.86 per kg, LMX- 295KG€1350- €4.58 per kg, LMX- 370KG- €1300€3.51 per kg, LMX- 430KG- €1510- €3.51 per kg, CHX- 340KG-€1670- €4.91 per kg, and LMX-350KG- €1590- €4.54 per kg.

Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €3.70 per kilo up to €9.71 per kilo.

Sample prices: BBX-350KG -€3400- €9.71 per kg, LMX -335KG-€2000-€5.97 per kg, LMX315KG- €1800-€5.71 per kg, CHX- 300KG€1460- €4.87 per kg, BBX-410KG- €1990€4.85 per kg, LMX- 460KG- €1500- €3.26 per kg, and CHX-375KG-€1390- €3.71 per kg.

Sheep

We had a similar number of sheep on o er at our weekly sale of lambs and stag ewes on November 6th, when compared to the previous week. Prices for spring lambs made up to €186 while stag ewes topped out at €226.

Our next sheep sale takes place on November 13th. 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 livestock-live.com.

Castlerea MART WATCH

Large numbers of stock presented for sale on Thursday last. Trade and prices were on par with previous weeks and the heifer ring reported some very fancy prices for quality lots with strong northern demand and buyers anxious for stock.

The weanling rings witnessed the bulls peak at €4.40 a kilo while the heifer weanlings topped out at €5.58 a kilo.

Dry cows made up to €2360 while breeding stock made up to €2260. The runner ring like the dry cow ring noticed increased lots on o er with demand for quality lots very noticeable.

Sample prices

Heifers: Lmx 415kgs €1700 Lm 425kgs €1590

Ch 410kgs €1460 BBx 430kgs €2140 Lm

490kgs €1760 Lm 445kgs €1640 Ch 700kgs

€2040 Ch 610kgs €2010 Ch 540kgs €1990 Lm

545kgs €1980 Lm 515kgs €1970 Ch 475kgs €1670.

Dry cows: Lm 880kgs €2360 Lm 730kgs

€2120 Ch 785kgs €2090 Lm 770kgs €2020 Lm

730kgs €1970 Six 490kgs €1020 Lm 480kgs €1400 Her 775kgs €1920.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1400 to €2200. Springers made from €1200 to €2260.

emissions than their Dutch counterparts, Drennan wondered what sustainability considerations were brought into play for these Government contracts.

“We are told that sustainability and environmental impact should be the paramount consideration in all our decision-making. What’s the point of us acting on that and being so guided if our own Government – the ones pushing through regulation after

regulation compelling us to do just that – are going to buy less sustainably produced dairy to give to Irish school children?”

Calling for the Government to immediately review the sourcing of food for the School Meals Programme, the ICMSA President said that he didn’t think it was an unreasonable ask for the Irish Government to source Irish-produced food where possible.

Runners – lots made from €170 to €1040 for continental lots.

Weanling bulls: BBx 295kgs €1220 Lm 275kgs €1210 Ch 285kgs €1180 Lm 290kgs €1140 Lm 350kgs €1400 Lm 360kgs €1460 Ch 445kgs €1470 Lm 390kgs €1520 Ch 405kgs €1560.

Weanling heifers: Ch 285kgs €1050 Ch 275kgs €1010 Lm 295kgs €1000 Ch 270kgs €970 BBx 315kgs €1760 Lm 325kgs €1220 Ch 325kgs €1200 Ch 315kgs €1100 BB 280kgs €940.

Bullock sale (Monday, 28th of October): Over 300 lots presented and a very sharp trade prevailed for all categories on o er. Top quality stores made up to €3.90 a kilo while heavier lots made up to €2250. Sample prices Ch 485kgs €1740 Lm 490kgs €1680 Ch 425kgs €1620 Ch 425kgs €1620 Lm 530kgs €1950 Ch 505kgs €1920 Lm 525kgs €1680 Ch 550kgs

Business

Local business honoured at All-Ireland Sustainability Awards

Local agri-business Swarms.ie, based in Roscommon, walked away with a coveted category win at the All-Ireland Sustainability Awards, held last week at the La Mon Hotel and Country Club in Belfast.

Recognised as leaders in environmental stewardship, Swarms.ie was crowned winner of the Biodiversity Initiative of the Year for its promotion of bee conservation and enhancing local ecosystems.

NIE’s Randal Gilbert was named as the inaugural winner of the Green Legacy Award, while Sustainable Business of the Year 2024 was awarded to Dublin-based social enterprise FoodCloud.

Now in its second year, the awards recognise businesses who have an unwavering commitment to sustainability across Ireland, in a diverse range of industries, including tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, technology, social enterprise and more.

With sustainability high on the agenda for all business, the awards received a record number of entries from across Ireland. The local Roscommon company Swarms.ie has demonstrated a commitment to creating a more sustainable future, driving innovation and positive environmental impact.

Organised by Triterra, and supported by ClimeAction, the All-Ireland Sustainability Awards recognise organisations that are setting ambitious goals and ﬁnding innovative ways to deliver sustainable solutions.

Commenting on this year’s awards, Director of Triterra Danielle McCormick

said, “We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Swarms.ie whose dedication to sustainability sets a high standard across the agri-sector. Swarms.ie exemplify how a business can lead the way in implementing innovative, eco-friendly practices while still delivering exceptional quality and service.

“By championing environmental responsibility, they are not only helping to protect our planet but also inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Congratulations to Swarms.ie for their well deserved recognition”.

Launch of new Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy

Skillnet Ireland, the national talent development agency for businesses, in partnership with Wind Energy Ireland, Ireland’s leading renewable energy representative body, have launched a new national initiative, Skillnet

Offshore Wind Academy.

The initiative will support professionals through a career switching model, which aims to rapidly create a pipeline of skilled workers for businesses operating in offshore

wind services. The Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy will focus on mid-career professionals interested in a career within the industry.

Announcing the launch of Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD, said, “It is a key priority for my Department to ensure that we have a talent pool ready and able to meet the requirements of developing our offshore wind resources.

“The importance of renewable energy for Ireland cannot be understated; as well as contributing to our energy security and lower carbon emissions, it will also create new jobs and produce cost savings for consumers. Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy will play a crucial role in ensuring the sector has the skills and expertise necessary to meet its climate action goals and in helping to make Ireland a world-leader in offshore energy.”

Paul Healy (Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland) said, “Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy will provide new opportunities for skilled workers from a range of industries with transferable skills, to upskill and become future leaders for the offshore wind sector. Offshore wind energy presents a unique opportunity to secure a supply of sustainable, indigenous energy, that will contribute to our energy economy in a meaningful way, for generations to come. Skillnet Ireland is committed to supporting this important sector to address its skills and workforce requirements and develop a pipeline exceptional talent”.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibreto-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has said that over 3,700 properties in its Castlerea deployment area can now avail of a high-speed ﬁbre broadband connection. This includes the rural areas and townlands surrounding Frenchpark, Ballinlough and Castlerea.

19,000 premises in Co Roscommon are included in the State’s Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools. As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electriﬁcation, Co Roscommon will receive €76m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.

National Broadband Ireland is calling on people living nearby to visit nbi.ie/map/and enter their Eircode to see if they are ready to connect. There are 14,194 homes, businesses, and farms in Co Roscommon that can order or pre-order highspeed, reliable broadband with 3,896 connections made to the NBI™ network so far.

Build works continue across Co Roscommon as over 1,800 premises near Curraghboy are due to be connected to NBI’s ﬁbre broadband next year.

NBI update on ﬁbre broadband rollout locally Wedding Awards recognition for Abbey Hotel

The four-star Abbey Hotel in Roscommon Town has been named as ﬁnalists in four categories of the prestigious weddingsuppliers.ie National Wedding Industry Awards.

“It’s an absolute honour for us to be ﬁnalists in four categories”, commented Geraldine Grealy, marketing and publications manager for the Abbey. “A huge heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for us. We are so looking forward to attending the awards on February 4th!”

The Abbey Hotel have been nominated in the following four categories: castle wedding venue of the year, country house wedding venue of the year, hotel wedding venue of the year, and wedding venue co-coordinator of the year – for the Abbey Hotel’s wedding manager, Lisa Butler. The winners will be announced in February 2025 at a gala black tie event.

“It’s such a tremendous boost for all our amazing team here at the hotel to be recognised alongside industry peers at these prestigious awards”, continued Ms Grealy. “As a long-standing familyrun wedding venue here in the Irish midlands, we are truly grateful to all our lovely couples who took time to vote for us.

“Your support means so much to all of us at the Abbey!”, she concluded.

Pictured are Abigail Shannon (co-founder of Swarms.ie), Declan O’Gorman (country director of Groundcontrol, award sponsors) and Stephen Gallagher (founder and national coordinator of Swarm.ie).

(L-R) Jim Breslin, Chairperson, Renewable Energy Ireland; Liz Thomas, Strategic Projects, Skillnet Ireland; Paul Healy, CEO, Skillnet Ireland; Noel Cunni e, CEO Wind Energy Ireland.

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

Exhibition inspired by Roscommon poet’s work ongoing at Dublin Castle

Roscommon writer Jane Clarke’s poetry has inspired a major art exhibition in Dublin Castle.

‘ROOTS: A Dialogue in Textile and Poetry’, which is being exhibited at the Coach House Gallery at Dublin Castle until January 19th 2025, comprises the work of fifteen artists, who have created new textile and multimedia artworks to give visual expression to the quiet, powerful words of the Roscommon poet, which echo throughout the exhibition as a sound installation.

The exhibition speaks to the eternal human concerns of living, loving and dying – “opening doors”, says Jane Clarke, “into memory, emotion, ideas and possibilities”.

Visitors find the combination of the poetry and art work very moving, and many recommend it to friends or return themselves to see it again. The Director of the Arts Council, Maureen Kennelly, who launched the exhibition, remarked that it is a perfect example of “how something new, miraculous and magical can be made by artistic collaboration”.

Entrance to the exhibition is free. For more information about the exhibit, visit element15.ie/exhibitions/, email element15textile@gmail. com or find the ‘element15 Contemporary Textile Art Collective’ (the group behind the exhibit’s artwork) on Facebook and Instagram at element15textile. For more information about Roscommon poet Jane Clarke and her work, email janeeclarke302@gmail. com or visit janeclarkepoetry.ie.

Talking music…

Music Generation hosted a National Gathering at The Galmont Hotel, Galway last week. The National Gathering brings together over 250 Musician Educators from across Ireland to celebrate their role in transforming young lives through music.

Established in 2010 by Music Network, Music Generation is cofunded by U2, The Ireland Funds, the Department of Education, and Local Music Education Partnerships, where Education and Training Boards and Local Authorities play a lead role.

*Photo shows old friends Noel Carberry (a Music Generation Longford educator) and Bernard O’Flaherty (a Music Generation Roscommon educator), meeting at the event. Photo: Brian Farrell

Mining interviews to reconvene at Arigna Mining Experience

Interviews of former miners who worked at Arigna Coal Mines are set to continue in the coming weeks, as part of an ongoing local tourism project.

Several interviews have already taken place, and the film crew conducting these interviews wish to thank everyone who have helped out so far. The interviews will provide the opportunity for tourists that visit the Miners Way and Historical Trail to enjoy the experiences of past miners through audio and visual experiences.

The project is being funded by The Department of Rural and Community Development under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme 2023 (ORIS) and implemented by Roscommon LEADER Partnership.

The aim of the project is to enhance visitors’ experience of the popular walking trail by having QR codes dotted along the route of the Miner’s Way & Historical Trail, which will redirect the walkers to a webpage where they can hear stories from the men that worked in the mines or had family members employed in the mines.

Already, sixteen incredible interviews have been recorded that give a unique insight into life in the mines. These interviews will also be available to watch in the Arigna Mining Experience. The crew have advised that it is vital that as many stories as possible are recorded from the people in the community who worked in the mines or had family members involved in mining. You can contact the crew by emailing arignaminingmemories@ gmail.com. Or you can text or call 086 8534610.

The next batch of interviews will take place on November 13th and 20th. People are currently being lined up for interview and if you are interested or would like to have a family member interviewed, please feel free to get in contact.

Photos from the Halloween Fun Walk at Mote Park last

Pictured is Roscommon poet Jane Clarke.

GOING OUT

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre were Manager of Roscommon Arts Centre, Catherine Lee (left) pictured with some or the exhibiting artists: Matthew Gammon (Roscommon), Joanne Hopkins (Longford), Kathy Raftery (Roscommon), Aaron Dees (Leitrim), Curator Eamonn Maxwell, Sheila Hough (Offaly), Eileen Fair (Galway), Gary Robinson (Longford), Susan Mannion (Roscommon) and Margo McNulty (Mayo/Westmeath).

Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre were exhibiting artist Joanna Hopkins and Richard Dunne. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre was Roscommon Arts Officer, Rhona McGrath pictured with Roscommon Arts Centre manager, Catherine Lee. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre were exhibiting artists Margo McNulty and Joanna Hopkins. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre is artist Sheila Hough pictured with her niece Alison. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre is Roscommon Arts Officer, Rhona McGrath pictured with artists Eileen Fair and Gary Robinson and curator, Eamonn Maxwell. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre was Sinead Cooney pictured with exhibiting artists Matthew Gammon and Susan Mannion. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre were exhibiting artist Bundoranbased Aaron Dees and Anna Savage. Photo: Brian Farrell

Pictured at the opening of the ‘Hivernal’ exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre is exhibiting artist Gary Robinson pictured with his wife Rosie and their children Faela, Ciadh and Hollie. Photo: Brian Farrell

5.36

AND RESIDENCE CAN BE SOLD SEPARATE SHOULD MARKET INTEREST DICTATE LOCATED AT STONEPARK, ROSCOMMON F42 YT53

Remax Team Earley close sale of residence in Scramogue

Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a spectacular fourbedroomed home situated on a spacious 0.3-acre plot at 2, The Rookery, Scramogue, Co Roscommon.

The Rookery is a charming, high-end small residential estate in Scramogue, close to the towns of Strokestown and Lanesborough, and a short drive to the lakes in Kilglass. The quality of this owner-occupied home is evident from the moment you ﬁrst see it, with a tarmacadam driveway and well-maintained lawns.

Remax Team Earley would like to advise that they are urgently seeking residences in the Strokestown/Scramogue area for disappointed underbidders.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley. ie, or contact one of the auctioneers directly by phoning Cormac on 086 3519492, Cathal on 086 1409158, or Keith on 086 0848590.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, has published the latest ﬁgures relating to the vacant property refurbishment grant, which show that in Roscommon, €1.6m has already been paid out in relation to the refurbishment of 29 homes.

Overall, since the launch of the grant just over two years ago, there have been 346 applications, 184 approvals and 29 grants issued in Roscommon. The ﬁgures, which outline applications, approvals and payments under the scheme up to the end of September 2024, also show the exponential increase in the rate of grants issued to homeowners following completion of work. The grant is paid out upon completion of all the works involved and as the scheme continues, more and more completions are coming on stream. Nationally, in Q3 2024, 336 grants were paid out; this compares to 226 in Q2 2024 and 146 in Q1 2024. Overall, throughout the 31 local authorities, there have been 10,097 applications, 6,713 approvals and 867 grants issued.

Under the vacant property refurbishment grant, you can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or building into your permanent home or a rental property.

The Rookery, Scramogue, Co Roscommon.

PropertyPeople

TO THE MARKET 24 Glenview, Galway Road, Roscommon Co. Roscommon F42 TD81

Superior 4 bedroom family home located within walking distance to Roscommon Town Centre in this established sought after residential area.

Spacious accommodation includes entrance hallway with w.c. o , large sitting room with bay window, open plan kitchen/dining room with patio doors to rear garden, and spacious utility, 4 large bedrooms (master ensuite) and family bathroom.

Outside tarmac drive, maintenance free front garden and large south facing garden to rear.

Viewing is a must.

Price Region: € 250,000 BER Rating: C2

NEW TO THE MARKET

Oldtown, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon N37 K8R6

Charming 3 bedroom cottage in need of restoration, located on c. 0.6 acre mature site, 10 minutes from the Towns of Athlone and Ballinasloe in a quiet countryside setting.

This residence has been vacant for a number of years and is eligible for the vacant house refurbishment grant, (interested parties should make their own individual enquiries in relation to same).

Accommodation includes entrance hallway, kitchen/ dining/living room, utility, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. Outside, laid lawns with secure storage container included in sale.

NEW TO THE MARKET

Woodberry Court, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

Superb 4 bedroom residence under construction in Roscommon’s premier residential location overlooking Roscommon Golf Course. This property is being constructed with Insulated Concrete Formwork. As demands for super Insulated and airtight building grows, ICF is rapidly growing in popularity as a method of construction. It o ers excellent insulation and airtightness performance with remarkably low heating costs. This property has an anticipated completion date of March 2025 and will be ‘A’ rated with air to water and heat recovery heating system. Accommodation includes entrance hallway, large

BARGAIN OF THE WEEK

c. 7.5 acres elevated site with Derelict Residence

Prime elevated land c. 7.5 acres comprising folio No. MY59207F with exceptional views of the surrounding countryside including Croagh Patrick. These lands have the bene t of a derelict cottage standing thereon which will enhance it planning potential. The lands are located only 10 minutes from Knock International Airport and c. 3km from the village of Caracastle in a quaint countryside setting. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a generous plot of elevated lands, ideal to build a replacement residence thereon subject to planning permission First €80,000. Secures

Luxury residence located close to great amenities

Oates Auctioneers are delighted to offer for sale an extremely attractive four-bedroom residence with attached garage at Rahara, Co. Roscommon, F42 ET04.

The property was built in 2010 and is nestled on a mature and private 2/3 of an acre, situated only 9 minutes from the picturesque village of Athleague, 14 minutes from Roscommon, 15 minutes from Athlone and only a 5-minute walk to the local primary school and church.

The property is presented for sale in excellent condition and

boasts many attractive features including solid oak kitchen, solar panels, oil ﬁred central heating, marble surround ﬁreplace in the living room and jacuzzi in the Gym Room, while externally the vehicular driveway extends right around the property.

Ground ﬂoor accommodation comprises of entrance hall, living room, large open plan kitchen/dining room, sunroom, gym, utility room, W.C. and attached garage.

On the ﬁrst ﬂoor there is a master bedroom with ensuite

and built in wardrobe, 3 double bedrooms, hot press and family bathroom.

Front and rear gardens surround the house with manicured lawns, mature hedging, shrubs and trees making this a tranquil rural idyll to work from home.

Overall, this property must be viewed to fully appreciate all it has to offer. Price Region: €450,000. BER: B3 For more information, contact Oates Auctioneers on 0906627878 or email info@oates.ie

Minister announces plans to purchase island on Lough Ree for strategic management of breeding waders

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, has announced his intention to purchase Clawinch Island on Lough Ree in order to protect threatened wading birds.

Lough Ree is a designated Special Protection Area and a Special Area of Conservation, and was recently identiﬁed as the most important site in Ireland for breeding waterbirds.

TEL:

The 50-acre island, which is located around 500m from the western shore of the lake, has been identiﬁed as a key site by the National Parks and Wildlife Service as it is home to breeding curlew, lapwing, oystercatcher, redshank, ringed plover and snipe, as well as various duck, gull and tern species.

This announcement adds to the footprint of lands already being managed for nature by the NPWS on Lough Ree, following last year’s acquisition of the nearby Black Islands, and will help to ensure that their vulnerable breeding wader populations can be secured.

Minister Noonan said: “Under this Government, we have invested heavily in the National Parks and Wildlife Service, increasing its funding by 170%. We have created two new National Parks and have invested in the strategic acquisition of key sites of ecological importance. We have also continued to fund and support targeted conservation projects such as the Breeding Waders EIP, a €25 million project, co-funded by the NPWS and the Department for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

“In 2023, I also announced a pledge of an additional €5 million to drive targeted conservation measures and strategic acquisitions for Breeding Waders. Today, I am proud to announce my intention to further increase the State’s portfolio of landholdings for nature to include the acquisition of the beautiful island of Clawinch.

“The opportunity to purchase an island site like this is rare, and it’s particularly valuable for breeding waders. These birds nest on the ground and are particularly vulnerable to predators. Because it’s an island, Clawinch is something of a haven for them. I’d like to thank the current owner for his willingness to see this site conserved for its ecological importance into the future”.

Lough Ree is also an important migratory stopping point and wintering site for many other species, with golden plover, whimbrel, dunlin, turnstone, common sandpiper and both black-tailed and bar-tailed godwit consistently using the site for feeding and roosting. Clawinch island, meanwhile, has some wonderful wet-grassland habitat. Otters are also regularly recorded in the waters around the island.

Many of the larger islands on Lough Ree became uninhabited in the mid to late 1900s and, on certain islands, this has seen the level of agricultural activity decrease. Ownership of Clawinch will allow the NPWS and the Breeding Waders EIP to implement measures to restore habitat where necessary.

Four-bedroom residence with attached garage at Rahara, Co. Roscommon.

Classifieds

ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS

If you WANT to stop gambling ... and REMAIN stopped ... you CAN!

GAMBLERS

ANONYMOUS MEETING every Monday at 8.45 pm at St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Athlone (N37 W7P3).

CHIMNEY CLEANING

COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES

CHIMNEY CLEANING

• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open res

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Telephone: 087 2798704

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING

Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess)

- Open re - Stoves - Ranges

Chimney CCTV Inspection

OIL BOILERS SERVICED

Burners Repaired

CARPETS CLEANING

Satellite and Digital

TV Installation

All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851

cleaning.com

MCFHP, MAFHP

Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

● Groundworks

● Renovations

● Chimney CCTV Inspections ● Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

FARMING

 FARM REPAIR SHOP

– Roscommon/Lanesboro area. Tel 087 2755738.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE - Hohner 2 row button accordian. 2915 Pokerwork, BC Tuned, refurbished, new straps and bag. €725 or nearest o er. Tel 094 9633718.

FOR SALE: 10’ x 6’ Tipping Trailer; 8’ x 5’ Cattle Trailer; Viking Fertiliser Shaker. Tel. 087 7733181.

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com NO JOB TOO BIG OR

COUNSELLING

& HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/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

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

• Sprayers tested on owners premises

• Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock of parts available and can be tted on sprayers

All sprayers tested in 2020/2021 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069

e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

FOR SALE: Stanley Stove with back boiler. In good condition. Also Fridge Freezer. Tel. 087 6216890 or 094 9860491.

FUEL FOR SALE

 FOR SALE: Turf and rewood for sale. Tonne bags. Excellent quality turf and rewood at €50 per bag delivered. Call Tom 086 2628439.

TRAILERS

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

Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

GARDENING

Fully insulated (4” all around) and nished to high standard both inside and out.

Fitted kitchen, 1 double bedroom (en suite), 1 single bedroom, family bathroom.

All electrics tted, painted interior, double glazed PVC windows and doors.

€35,000 – without trailer • €40,000 – with trailer

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission is being sought by Byron Distributors Limited for the following:

a) To retain the existing building, associated yard, and parking spaces on a revised site boundary to that permitted under planning reference PD/06/1126,

b) To retain the use of an adjoining yard space as ancillary storage and parking area, and permission is also sought to enclose this area in a new roofed building. The development will be accessed via the estate road to the southwest of the building and yard, which is located at Roscommon Business Park, Ballypheasan Td, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected at the oﬃces of the Planning Authority at Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon during oﬃce hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to, or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Paul Feeney Consulting Engineers, Unit 1, Riveroaks Centre, Claregalway, Co. Galway.

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT to let in Ballymoe village. All mod. cons. OFCH.Furnished or unfurnished. Newly refurbished. Tel. 087 2363745.

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

Acceptance of an

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Application is being made to Roscommon County Council for Permission to demolish existing outbuilding, formerly serving a dwellinghouse, which had previously been demolished and to construct 99 No. dwelling units and a Creche facility.

The development will consist of 6 No. 2 storey x 2 Bed units (composed of 2 blocks x 3 No. units), 2 No. x 2 Bed apartments over the Creche facility, 36 No. 2 Storey x 3 Bed Semi-detached units, 34 No. 2 Storey x 4 Bed semi-detached units, 21 No. 2 Storey x 4 Bed detached units.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Sean McNeill, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house along with domestic garage, Connection to services, and all ancillary site development works at Lisnamult Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Unit 5, 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

The Development will also include the installations of a Foul Sewerage Pumping Station, Surface-water Attenuation Tanks and all necessary ancillary siteworks and services at Monksland, Athlone.

Signed: Pat Donoghue

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Keith Hogg and my partner Alison Reynolds, intend to apply for permission for development at this site Oakport Road, Cootehall, Co. Roscommon, Ireland.

The development will consist of: Planning permission is sought for the renovation of the two-storey detached house with rear ground and rst- oor extensions and a septic tank upgrade. The scope includes an open-plan kitchen and dining area, front porch replacement, selective partition removal, oor upgrades with under oor heating, and replacement of all doors and windows. A rear ground- oor extension with a at roof and Velux roof-lights and a rst- oor extension with a pitched roof will be added. Exterior work features timber cladding and a patio for improved outdoor connectivity, integrating smoothly with the existing structure.

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Keith Hogg.

Dated: 06/11/2024

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Retention Of Existing Single Storey Extension Servicing Existing Single Storey Type Dwelling House Together With The Proposed Installation Of A Proprietary Wastewater Treatment System With Polishing Filter And All Ancillary Site Works At Smutternagh Townland, Corrigeenroe, Boyle, Co. Roscommon For Mr. Joe Simon.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, James Hunt intend to apply for planning permission for development at Ardsallagh More, Roscommon. The development will consist of – (a) Demolition of an existing hay shed; (b) Construction of a solid oor sheep house with penning and store; (c) Installation of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on roof of sheep house including inverter and controller + Solar PV rechargeable battery; (d) Construction of an e uent storage tank; (e) Conversion of an existing shed to a xed sheep handling unit with dip tank; (f) Construction of a 3-bay slatted shed & associated siteworks.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the oﬃces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.Ph- (087) 2222874

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael O’Brien intend to apply for planning permission & retention permission for development at Carrownderry, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of – planning permission for the construction of a light engineering workshop at an existing farmyard, waste water treatment system & associated siteworks & retention permission for an existing machinery shed.

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors.

2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St, Roscommon.Ph- (087) 2222874

WARD

Bríd

Friaryland, Creggs, Co. Galway

In loving memory of Bríd, who passed away on 8th November 2015

Beautiful memories are treasured ever, of happy days when we were together.

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

Rest In Peace, Bríd Missed each day and remembered by her family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 10th November 2024 at 11.30am.

FLANAGAN

David

Clooncoose North, Castlerea

In loving memory of David who passed away 09 November 2022 (2nd Anniversary)

Lonely is the home without you, life to us is not the same. All the world would be like Heaven to have you here again.

Sadly missed by your family.

Anniversary Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Castlerea, Saturday 9th November 2024 at 8pm.

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

MORGAN

Tom

Bracklagh, Williamstown, Co. Galway

In loving memory of Tom, who passed away on 6th November 2023. Rest in Peace. (1st Anniversary)

The tears in my eyes I can wipe away. The ache in my heart will always stay.

Lovingly remembered by his loving wife, Bridie.

Anniversary Mass Saturday 9th of November at 6pm in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe.

MORGAN

Tom

Bracklagh, Williamstown, Co. Galway

In loving memory of Tom, who passed away on 6th November 2023. Rest in Peace. (1st Anniversary)

Your spirt lives on within us, forever guiding, forever loved.

Sadly missed by your son Stephen, Norrie, Ryan and Rebecca.

MORGAN

Tom

Bracklagh, Williamstown, Co. Galway

In loving memory of Tom, who passed away on 6th November 2023. Rest in Peace. (1st Anniversary)

One year has gone and not a day passes without us thinking of you. Your love and the memories we shared remain our strength. We miss you beyond words.

Loved and sadly missed by his son Kenneth, grandchildren Kayden and Ross.

MULHERN Paddy

Athleague, Co. Roscommon

We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. So rest in peace dear loved one, and thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and remembered every day, your wife Peggy.

In loving memory of Dad It’s so strange that those in need and those we love the best, are just the ones God called away and took them home to rest. But every time I think of Dad I seem to hear God say: “have faith and trust my promise, you’ll meet again some day”.

Missing you, love Trish, Jeremy and Niamh.

May there always be work for your hands to do. May your purse always hold a coin or two. May the sun always shine on your window pane. May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain. May the hand of a friend always be near you. May God ﬁll your heart with gladness to cheer you.

Love Lorraine, Sébastien, André, Théo and Léon.

In sickness and in health, you set a wonderful example. We miss you every day.

Love Olivia, Niall, Mia and Dara.

In life I loved you dearly, in death I love you still. In my heart you hold a place, that no one could ever ﬁll. With love Pat, Ruth, Ruairc and Éabha.

Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, we who love you will never forget.

You are always with us. Love Joe, Tara, Saoirse and Oisín.

Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday 10th November at 10am.

UNFAILING NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideals. You who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank you for everything and con rm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your Perpetual Glory. Amen. Mention your request. While making the request, promise to either publish this prayer to circu¬late the favour. Say prayer for three days. After the third day, the request will be granted.

A.H.

NOVENA TO ST MARTIN DE PORRES

Most humble St. Martin, whose burning charity embraces all, but especially those who are sick, a icted, or in need, we turn to thee for help in our present di culties and we implore thee to obtain for us from God health of soul and body, and in particular the favour we now ask … (pause to ask favours). May we, by imitating thy charity and humility, nd quiet and contentment all our days, and cheerful submission to God’s holy will in all the trials and di culties of life. Amen. A.H.

MOTHER TERESA’S QUICK NOVENA Pray The Memorare Ten Times. Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who ed to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this con dence, I y unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen. Say this prayer ten times. Never known to fail. M.C. 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 so when your father sees it, it will become your own favour, not mine. Say three times a day, for three days, promise publication. C.S.

CRAVEN

Michelle

Knockcroghery, Roscommon / Roscommon Town, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Loving daughter, much missed sister, adored aunt, every day we miss and remember you. Just like the sweetest rose the petals fell too soon, but the love you planted in our hearts will never cease to bloom. Still loved and missed by all.

The family of the late Michelle Craven, who passed away on November 9th, 2023, would like to express our deep appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us and supported us at the time of our sad bereavement.

Our heartfelt “thank you” to the wonderful relatives, neighbours, and friends who visited, brought food and refreshments, attended the Removal, the Requiem Mass, and the cremation.

Thank you to everyone who telephoned, sent Mass Cards, Sympathy Cards, messages of condolence online and oral tributes, and to those who travelled long distances to be with us.

We extend our deep appreciation to the Doctors, Nurses and sta in Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, Galway University Hospital, and Roscommon Hospice, Ardsallagh Beg, Roscommon, for the wonderful care and attention you gave to Michelle throughout her illness, and to us, her family as well.

Thank you to Fr. Donal Morris for celebrating Michelle’s Funeral Mass so beautifully and eloquently, and sincere gratitude to all who participated in the Mass on the day, most especially, the beautiful choir, and to Marie Doorly for her fabulous Mass booklets. Also, our gratitude to Fr Ray Milton who celebrated Michelle’s Month’s Mind Mass, and the burial of her ashes in St John’s Cemetery afterwards. Míle buíochas to Michelle’s uncles and cousins for preparing her nal resting place.

A special word of thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism and sensitivity in handling the arrangements.

As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep and heartfelt gratitude to all who helped us in any way. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Michelle’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday November 9th at 7.00 pm in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

CARR

Thomas, Mary & Michael

Mote Park, Roscommon

Thomas (22nd Anniversary) Mary (5th Anniversary)

Michael (34th Anniversary)

Remembering our parents Thomas and Mary and our brother Michael on their anniversary.

Words and times we can no longer share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday 8th November at 7pm.

CURLEY

Elaine Gurrane, Creggs, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Elaine, who died on 6th November 2011

Aged 19 years. R.I.P.

The day you left and gained your wings, our hearts broke in two. We wished you could have stayed with me, but Heaven needed you. You left us with the memories, and we love you dearly still. You were a very special person, with kindness in your heart and the love we had together grows stronger now we’re apart. We know we cannot bring you back, although we wish it everyday. But a piece of us went with you the day you went away.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed by Mammy, Daddy, Aisling, Kieran, Noel, nieces and nephews. xxxxx

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday 10th November at 11.30 am.

DUFFY

Jerry 12th Anniversary occurs on the 26th October 2024

Your life was one of kindly deeds, a helping hand to others needs, sincere and true in heart and mind, beautiful memories left behind.

Lovingly remembered by Julia and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday 15th November at 7.30pm

www.brianmurraystone.com

WARD

PAULINE

Corbo, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Pauline, who passed away on 9th November, 2023

Remember Me

Speak of me as you have always done. Remember the good times, laughter, and fun. Share the happy memories we’ve made. Do not let them wither or fade.

I’ll be with you in the summer’s sun and when the winter’s chill has come, I’ll be the voice that whispers in the breeze. I’m peaceful now, put your mind at ease. I’ve rested my eyes and gone to sleep, but memories we’ve shared are yours to keep. Sometimes our ﬁnal days may be a test, but remember me when I was at my best. Although things may not be the same, don’t be afraid to use my name. Let your tears last for just a while, comfort each other and try to smile. I’ve lived a life ﬁlled with joy and fun.

A loved one’s touch, a kiss, a sing-song, these things too I will miss. Live on now, make me proud. Don’t think of me as gone away, my journey has just begun.

Pauline you are deeply missed, loved and always remembered by your niece, Margaret Callaghan, and all the extended members of the Ward family.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 9th November in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane at 7pm.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

RATTIGAN (KENNEDY) Helen

Remembering Helen on her birthday on 7th November.

Loved and sadly missed by Amy, Margi, Donal and families Helen’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 9th November in St Mary’s Church, Ballagh at 7.30pm

HANLEY

Mary

9 St. Coman’s Park, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

You can only have one mother, patient, kind and true; no other friend in all the world will be the same to you.

When other friends forsake you, to Mother you will return; for all her loving kindness, she asks nothing in return. As we look upon her picture, Sweet memories we recall of a face so full of sunshine and a smile for one and all.

Sweet Jesus take this message to our dear Mother up above; tell her how we miss her and give her all our love

With love from Sonny, Dorothy, Paula, John, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon, on 19th November at 8.00 am.

COYLE

Anne (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Anne who passed away 14th November 2022.

A wife, a mother, a granny too, this is the legacy we have from you.

You taught us love and how to ﬁght, you gave us strength, you gave us might. A stronger person would be hard to ﬁnd, and in your heart, you were always kind. You fought for us all in one way or another, not just as a wife not just as a mother. For all of us you gave your best, now the time has come for you to rest.

So go in peace, you’ve earned your sleep, your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep.

Loved, remembered and sadly missed each day by all her family.

Anniversary Mass will take place in The Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Sunday, 10th November at 11am.

• New Headstones

• New Inscriptions

• Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments

• Wall Plaques and Name Plates

• Grave Maintenance Service

Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723

E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

DWYER

(née Hannon)

Catherine Goﬀ Street, Roscommon. (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Catherine who died 12th November 2021

Silent memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our thoughts and hearts, you still live on.

Lovingly remembered by your husband Paddy.

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

To walk and guide us through our lives, until we meet again.

Always remembered by your sons and daughters-in-law, Marcus, Niall, Yvonne, Rachel and grandchildren, Ella, Sophie, Hayley and Freya.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 9th November at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

DOYLE

Clare 11 St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Town.

In loving memory of my dear Mother who died on the 22nd November 1965

R.I.P.

Time can never take away the memories we have, you may be unseen and unheard, but you are always in my heart where I hold you tight, always.

You were such a good mother and always did what you could for me, you can only have one mother to cherish, I was lucky to have you as mine.

I love you always mum sadly missed always by your loving daughter Bridie, grandson James, daughter-in-law Joanne and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass for Claire in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 14th November at 11am.

Mam, I have always loved you.

WHYTE

Frank and Christy Castlestrange House, Athleague

Christy

Will those who think of them today, a prayer to Our Lady of Knock, please say. Always remembered with love by Shirley and family. Mass has been o ered.

In loving memory of CRUISE

Richard Derrycahill, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 8th November 1994

R.I.P. (30th Anniversary)

The hands of time keep turning, as the years they pass away. But in my heart and memory, you are with me everyday.

Always remembered by your daughter Rosaleen.

NEILAN

Mary & Thomas (Jnr) Castlecoote, Roscommon (34rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary who died on 5th November 1990. Also her son Thomas (52nd Anniversary) who died on 16th November 1972.

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

Always remembered by all your family.

CURLEY

Tom

Muﬀ, Castlecoote, Roscommon Who died on 4th November 2012 (12th Anniversary)

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts is always kept for you. Loved and remembered by his family.

LYNCH (née Flanagan)

Mary Kate

Corlis, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary Kate who passed away on the 11th November 2021 in her hundreth year. Also her husband Patrick who passed away on the 22nd December 1998. R.I.P.

Beautiful memories are wonderful things, they last till the longest day, They never wear out, they never get lost and can never be given away. To some you may be forgotten, to others a part of the past, but to us who loved and lost you, your memory will always last. Forever in our hearts.

Sadly missed, always loved and remembered by her daughters Mary, Helena and Patricia, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren, neighbours, relatives and many friends.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Sunday, 10th November at 12 noon.

SHANNON JOHNNY

Carane, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

The wife and family of the late Johnny Shannon, who passed away on 19th November, 2023 wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with us and supported us on our sad loss.

Thanks to all those people that attended the reposing, removal and Funeral Mass, some who travelled long distances. Thanks also to those who viewed the Requiem Mass via live stream, sent Mass cards, messages, phone calls, online condolences and oral tributes.

Thank you to Fr George Agger SVD and Fr Pravin Dhason for their kindness, support, prayers and for making the Funeral Mass so meaningful. Thanks to everyone who helped and participated in the Mass and helped to prepare the church.

A special word of thanks to Nicola and Pat Mc Donagh for their professionalism and support with the funeral arrangements. A sincere expression of gratitude to our wonderful neighbours who prepared Johnny’s nal resting place with such attention, care and respect.

Thank you to the wonderful sta in Roscommon University Hospital for their care and kindness to Johnny.

We are eternally grateful to the angels working in Mayo Roscommon Hospice for the fantastic care they gave both to Johnny and our family during his nal illness. We cannot thank them enough for everything they did for all of us to ease his passing.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually please accept this acknowledgment on his rst anniversary as an expression of our deep appreciation and thanks.

First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 11am on 10th November at St Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish

Frank

etc.

Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV CHECK IF REQUIRED.

Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrick-on-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss.

Fully Registered. Call Dave on 085 8888833

GARDENING

www.westsidegardening.ie

GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House, Co Roscommon

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG

Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844

Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House, Co Roscommon

Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Staff Panel Being Created!

Four Mile House, Co Roscommon

CHY 12629

Relief Staff Panel Being Created!

Essential Criteria:

Relief Staff Panel Being Created!

• Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre’s New Management Team is seeking applicants for the following position:

Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Roscommon town. Tel. 090 6626152.

•

• Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times

•

Essential Criteria:

EARLY YEARS EDUCATOR

We have vacancies for:

• Experience planning child-centred activities

• Experience working as part of a team

• Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE

• Good oral and written communication

• 40 hours Permanent Contract

• Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours

• 9am - 6pm Monday – Friday

• Garda Vetting required

• Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times

• Competitive Pay rates

• Experience planning child-centred activities

• Experience working as part of a team

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Interested

• Good oral and written communication

• Minimum QQI/Fetac 5 in Early Years Education and Care

Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form. Job description available upon request. A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled, including relief work. Canvassing will disqualify.

• Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours

• Ability to always ensure the health and safety of children

The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com

• Garda Vetting required

• Experience planning child-centred activities

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

• Experience working as part of a team

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest and CV no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to:

• Good oral and written communication

• Ability to work on own initiative

The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com

• Garda Vetting required

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Canvassing will disqualify.

Childcare Practitioner

Full time (39 hours)

Essential Criteria:

Apply by letter or email including a CV to cuanbhridechildcare@gmail.com or by post to

The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 Application deadline is Friday 15th November 2024.

CV no later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to:

House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer, and canvassing will disqualify.

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest

Part-Funded by the Irish Government Subvention Scheme and part-financed by the European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

Minimum FETAC level 5

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work as part of a team

Understanding of Pre-school regulations

Understanding of Síolta & Aistear Desirable but not essential: 1 years’ experience in a similar role

• Child protection training

• FAR training

After-school Assistant

Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com

(school term only) Part time, 1:30-5:30, Mon.-Fri.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Essential Criteria:

Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

StepIn Supported Living Networks supports people with intellectual disabilities to live independently in their own homes in the heart of the community.

We are recruiting a person to ll the role of

SUPPORTED LIVING FACILITATOR

The role includes 12 hours per week direct support to network members and 7 hours per week coordination/administration

RATE OF PAY:

19 hours per week at an hourly rate of €16.27 per hour i.e. €16,074.76 per annum subject to ongoing availability of funding.

The post is based in Roscommon town.

To apply for the position please send your Curriculum Vitae and a cover letter outlining why you are interested and suitable for the post to louise@stepin.ie

SHOP/GENERAL ASSISTANT

required for part-time position. 18/20 exible hours per week. Fluent English essential. Email replies to connaughtdrycleaners@gmail.com

MAN AVAILABLE

 LABOURER AVAILABLE to do fencing, concreting foddering, tidying – any odd jobs. Tel. 087 9235745.

the Irish Government Subvention Scheme and part-financed by the European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

Please contact louise@stepin.ie for a detailed job description if required.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm on Wednesday 20th November 2024.

Applications by email only.

• Experience with school age children

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to work as part of a team Desirable but not essential:

• FETAC level 5, however training can be provided

• 1 years’ experience in a similar role

• Child protection training

• FAR training

Bene ts applicable to both roles

• 22-24 days annual leave

• Starting salary €15 - €16.50 per hour

• Uniforms provided

• Annual Christmas bonus

• Continuous professional development provided and lieu time given

• High adult to sta ratio’s in all rooms

• Flexibility

Interested applicants should send their CV & cover letter to manager@green eldschildcare.com or by post to Lisa O’ Neill, Manager, Green elds Childcare, Lisnamult, Co. Roscommon

Closing date is November 22nd @ 5pm

Sports PEOPLE

In-form Pearses ready to take battle to Coroﬁn

SEAMUS DUKE



One of the most interesting games in the entire senior club football championship this winter is set for Tuam Stadium this Sunday when one of the all-time great teams of modern club fare, Coroﬁn, face the recently crowned Roscommon club champions Padraig Pearses.

Coroﬁn, the aristocrats of Connacht club football, are seeking their 11th provincial title this year while Pearses are chasing only their second, to add to their memorable success in 2021.

The sides met in the final of 2019 at the same venue with Corofin coming out on top on that occasion, however the Roscommon champions are a much more seasoned outfit now and will be looking forward to Sunday’s encounter.

Coroﬁn will start as the favourites but many shrewd judges are giving Pearses a great chance of upsetting the odds

and Frank Canning’s men have all the attributes to win a big championship game at this time of the year.

Pearses came through Roscommon after a tough campaign and most people will agree that their season turned the day they defeated All-Ireland ﬁnalists St Brigid’s in the Roscommon quarterﬁnal. It was the draw that Pearses wanted and they delivered on the day too.

They were given a tough examination by Roscommon Gaels in the county ﬁnal but came through that after a scare or two. Pearses have a super blend of experienced and younger players to call on.

The news that Eoin Colleran is unlikely to play because of a shoulder injury is a big blow to the Roscommon champions as he has been having a very productive championship campaign so far. He was outstanding in the county ﬁnal, earning the man of the match award. But Pearses

have plenty of talented players to step in, such as Emmet Kelly, Sean Canning and Conor Lohan.

Pearses are a team that are very difﬁcult to beat on the big championship day. With the four Daly brothers in their setup – led by Niall, who has been having another great year for the club – and Davy Murray and Niall Carty at the heart of the action, Pearses have a very solid base. When you add in the likes of Gavin Downey, Paul Carey and Paul Whelan –who have been there a number of years – it’s an impressive line-up.

But the addition of younger players has been the key this year. Lads like Declan Kenny, Caelim Keogh, Conor Ryan, Adam McGreal and Jack Tumulty, not to mention Eoin Colleran, have given a wonderful balance to Peareses which is a real positive as they face into this weekend’s challenge.

Coroﬁn retained their Galway title two

weeks ago when they beat Moycullen in the ﬁnal (2-9 to 0-9). They have a very familiar looking team. They have proven winners in every line and will be hoping to make home advantage count on Sunday.

Bernard Power, who has seen plenty of action with the Galway seniors, is still in goal. Other very well-known names that have starred over the years for the club include Liam Silke, new 2024 AllStar Dylan McHugh, Kieran Molloy, Michael Farragher, Michael Lundy, Darragh Silke and the evergreen Gary Sice.

Indeed Sice scored 1-2 as he won his 14th Galway senior championship medal against Moycullen, and he remains an

integral part of this Coroﬁn set-up. Big football matches at this time of the year are usually low-scoring with possession of the ball being key. Both sides have loads of experience and the match-ups on the day will be fascinating to see.

Pearses are a super championship team with plenty of proven match-winners in their midst. However if they have to line out without the very talented Eoin Colleran this test might just be beyond them.

I am expecting a very tight match that will go all the way but Coroﬁn look to have the edge and I give them a hesitant nod to advance.

Prediction: Coroﬁn.

The final scoreline might suggest that Corofin won this provincial final with something to spare – however the reality was that it was only in the last few minutes that the Galway champions pulled away. Pearses had won their first ever Roscommon championship and were contesting their first provincial decider. The opening half was a dour affair. Corofin were slightly the better side and they led by 0-5 to 0-2 at half-time.

Pearses played their best football of the game in the third quarter and the teams were level at 0-6 each by the 40th minute with Niall Daly and Paul Carey getting some vital scores for the Roscommon champions. But Pearses would come to rue missing a golden goal opportunity in the 35th minute, Ronan Daly shooting wide when clean through on goal.

The key score of the game came in the 42nd minute when Daithi Burke set up Liam Silke for the only goal of the game. It was the score that broke the Pearses resistance and Coroﬁn went on to win their fourth Connacht title in a row.

Coroﬁn: Bernard Power; Cathal Silke, Kieran Fitzgerald, Liam Silke (1-0); Daithi Burke, Conor Cunningham, Dylan Wall (0-1); Kieran Molloy, Ronan Steede (0-1); Gary Sice (0-2, frees), Michael Farragher (0-2), Jason Leonard (0-3, 1 free); Ian Burke, Martin Farragher, Michael Lundy. Subs: Dylan McHugh for Cunningham (28), Darragh Silke for Lundy (44), Colin Brady (0-1) for C Silke (44), Gavin Burke for Wall (56), Dylan Canney for Steede (59), Ciaran McGrath for Martin Farragher (60), Dean Hynes for Michael Farragher (64).

Padraig Pearses: Paul Whelan; Shane Carty, Anthony Butler, Mark Richardson; Gavin Downey, David Murray, Ronan Daly (0-1); Niall Carty, Conor Daly; Paul Carey (0-3, 2 frees), Lorcan Daly, Niall Daly (0-1); Emmet Kelly (0-1, ’45), Hubert Darcy (0-1, free), Conor Payne. Subs: Tom Butler for N Carty (20), Seanie Fahy for Kelly (53), Alan Duffy for S Carty (54), Shane Mulvey for L Daly (63), James Kelly for Payne (63).

Referee: Eamonn O’Grady (Leitrim). Connacht Club SFC ﬁnal: Coroﬁn 1-10 Padraig Pearses 0-7

Sean Canning of Padraig Pearses is pursued by Brian Murtagh (St Faithleach’s) in the recent Roscommon SFC semi- nal. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Padraig Pearses’ manager Frank Canning. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses by

This weekend’s racing action

Racing today (Thursday) is over the sticks at Powerstown Park in Clonmel featuring the Grade 2 Clonmel Oil Chase with a 12.20 pm start.

Tomorrow (Friday) sees racing on the all-weather under lights in Dundalk, stalls for the ﬁrst opening at 5 pm.

Saturday sees racing at Gowran Park, ﬁrst race being at 12.27 pm. On Sunday racing over the sticks is at Naas at 11.50 pm featuring the Grade 3 Barberstown Castle Chase and the Listed Brown Lad Hurdle, with no racing scheduled for Monday.

TV coverage starts on Friday with ITV showing four races from Exeter including the Grade 2 Haldon Gold Cup Handicap Chase. On Saturday, ITV cover 11 races, ﬁve from Wincanton including two Grade 2 races, the Rising Stars Novice Chase, and the Elite Hurdle, three from Aintree, including the Grand Sefton over

the national fences, and three on the ﬂat from Doncaster.

Recent racing action

In the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal on Saturday, Henry de Bromhead’s Envoi Allen emerged victorious by ½l after a ding-dong battle with the Shark Hanlon trained bargain Hewick in the closing stages of the race. Darragh O’Keeffe rode the winner, with Jordan Gainford on the runnerup. Gordon Elliott’s Gerri Colombe was the 8/11 favourite in the ﬁrst Grade 1 of the season, ﬁnished a disappointing 3rd. The winner could be seen next in Kempton’s King George Chase over the Christmas or at Leopardstown. Elliott had some compensation, training eight winners over the two-day meeting.

City Of Troy just did not perform on the dirt at Del Mar and was very disappointing on Saturday night. Ireland had two winners at Del Mar on Friday when the Ger Lyons trained Magnum Force was carried to victory by Champion Jockey

Tom Red

Colin Keane, and O’Brien’s Lake Victory under Ryan Moore won the Juvenile Fillies Turf to remain unbeaten.

Gavin Cromwell was pleased with Fiery Lucy who ﬁnished 4th (beaten 3l). O’Brien and Moore completed a double when Henri Matisse won the last, giving O’Brien his 20th Breeders Cup winner, equalling the record held by American trainer D Wayne Lucas.

On Tuesday morning Knight’s Choice and Irish jockey Robbie Dolan won the Lexus Melbourne Cup at 90/1, the complete outsider, as the European raiders failed to ﬁre in the Flemington ‘race that stops a nation’. Ireland and Britain had a strong challenge for the twomile contest with Sea King and Onesmoothoperator joined by Willie Mullins’ pair of Vauban and Absurde. All four disappointed as Knight’s Choice and Japanese runner Warp Speed battled it out in the dying strides, with Irishman Dolan and Knight’s Choice prevailing by a short head. Absurde fared

best of the European runners in ﬁfth, improving on last year’s seventh place, while Vauban was 11th, Onesmoothoperator 12th and Sea King 14th of the 23 runners.

Dolan rode in Ireland, and was attached to Adrian Keatley’s stable, for a couple of seasons and had three winners before moving to Australia in 2016. His grandfather was Peadar Matthews who rode two Irish

Classic winners, the 1962 Irish St Leger on the Paddy Prendergast trained Arctic Vale and the 1963 2,000 Guineas on Linacre for the same trainer.

More racing news

The season ended at the Curragh last Sunday with Colin Keane being crowned, Keane’s sixth jockey title. He ﬁnished the year on the 103-winner

Short putts

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

SENIORS: The overall winner on Thursday, the 24th of October was Chris Lowe with a score of 40 points. Category one winner was Albert Hogg with 34 points; Category two winner was Robbie Donaldson with 34 points and Category three was won by Seamus Mulhern with 38 points.

The front nine was won by Michael Keville with 20 points and the back nine was won by Gerald Fitzgerald with 17 points.

Last Thursday’s overall winner was Michael Keville with 40 points; Pat Gannon won category one with 39 points; Category two was won by Kevin O’Rourke

with 36 points and category three was won by Charlie Farrell with 33 points.

The front nine was won by Chris Lowe with 20 points and the back nine was won by Leo Kavanagh with 19 points.

The winner of the Barry Donnellan sponsored matchplay was Michael Keville. Golfer of the Year was won by Albert Hogg. The next away outing is to Strandhill on Monday, the 11th November. Tee off will be at 11 am.

CASTLEREA

Winners of the Bank of Ireland sponsored competition were – 1st: James Egan (39 pts); 2nd: Padraig Casey (37 pts); 3rd: Adam McDermott (37 pts); 4th: Donna Hannelly (37 pts); 5th: Seán Kilkenny (36 pts); 6th: Anthony Mahony (36 pts).

Winners of Ladies Hi Low club competitions were Mamie Creaton/Ann Breslin and Rose Callaghan/ Deirdre Hawkshaw. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to Ann Marie Beirne of Bank of Ireland for their sponsorship. Results of the Cosy Bar sponsored competition were – 1st: Aidan Fleming with 36 points; 2nd: Emmet Patton with 34 points; Cat. 1: Jimmy Joyce with 29 points; Cat. 2: Gerry O’Gara with 34 points; Cat. 3: Tony Reilly with 32 points.

mark eight ahead of Billy Lee. The apprentice championship went right down to the ﬁnal day with James Ryan’s tally of 33 winners leaving him two ahead of both Wayne Hassett and Adam Caffrey, a double at Dundalk on Wednesday (of last week) securing him the title. Aidan O’Brien landed a record 27th trainer’s title with 131 home winners and over €6.5m in prize-money.

(News from local golf clubs)

Four Roads supporters Abbey, Lauren, Marie and Chloe Kelly pictured at the recent Connacht IHC quarter- nal between Tooreen and Four Roads. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Envoi Allen and Darragh O’Kee e, in red, leads Hewick at Down Royal.

First prize winner in the Bank of Ireland competition, James Egan, receiving his prize from Ann-Marie Beirne, Manager, Bank of Ireland (sponsors).

SportsPeople

Pearses claim junior camogie crown

Padraig Pearses lifted the County Junior camogie title when they beat Four Roads by 0-11 to no score at Ballyforan last weekend.

In this unusually low-scoring game, Pearses were on top for most of the proceedings, their victory never really in doubt.

After a notably ordinary first half, Pearses went into the dressing room leading by 0-3 to 0-0.

Sarah Dooley was in excellent form at midfield for the winners, scoring 0-6 in a player of the game performance. Amongst her teammates, Kate Doyle and Grainne Lohan were particularly prominent.

Note: This Saturday sees the RosGal Assessors Junior B football final take place as neighbours St Aidan’s and St Brigid’s meet at Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm.

Tricks and treats at the Oche

The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League continued last weekend with the following Round 3 results: McDermott’s 8 Cosy Bar 1 (22 to 5 on legs); Flanagan’s 8 Village Inn 1 (21 to 9 on legs); Dalton’s 3 Sportman’s 6 (12 to 17 on legs); An Bothar Rua 9 Tower Bar 0 (24 to 0 on legs). The game between The Hollywood and The Holly Tree was postponed due to a bereavement. This weekend’s fixtures are as follows: Round 4, 8th of November – Tower Inn v Hollywood; Dalton’s

v An Bothar Rua; Flanagan’s v Sportsman’s; Village Inn v Cosy Bar; Holly Tree v McDermott’s. Youths Academy: Roscommon Youth Darts Academy continued last Saturday morning with a big turnout of young players. Boys and girls from 8 to 17 years of age were in attendance, with the standard showing Roscommon darts is in a very healthy place. Any boy or girl aged between 8 and 17 is very welcome to join. Enquiries to Martina on 086 3691604, or Tommy on 086 1088798.

League title play-off Best wishes to our 18s girls who play their league title play-off against Castlerea in Lecarrow on Friday evening. KO 7.30 pm. Good luck girls.

Well done

Congratulations to Olimpia who received her UEFA C Licence certificate in Dublin on Saturday. Oli is a committed coach in the club, giving her time for others as a valuable volunteer.

SFAI Trophy

On Saturday, we have two teams involved in the SFAI Trophy. Our boys U-16s are away to Arrow Harps of Sligo while our 14s play away to Colga of Galway. We wish them well.

Boys U-11s

The curtain has come down for five of our six boys U-11 teams this season. CL2 and CL3 celebrated their success recently. Our EL3 side had a good year also as they reached the final. Our CL1 side are due to play their final shortly. Well done to the players and their coaches and thanks to the parents for their support on and off the pitch this season.

What is success?

St John’s advance to fourth round of FAI Junior Cup

St John’s Athletic are through to the fourth round of the FAI Junior Cup following a 2-1 win over the Sligo Super League side Carbury FC at Lecarrow.

Boyle Celtic were beaten 3-0 away to the Mayo Super League side Ballyheane. The scoreline was not a true reflection of the game as Ballyheane only scored their first goal after sixty-six minutes and the other two came well into time added on at the end of the game.

The remaining game between Cloonfad United and Castlebar Celtic was postponed due to a bereavement in Cloonfad. The last couple of months have been terrible for the people of Cloonfad and Cloonfad United. The League extends their heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families and Cloonfad United FC.

In the Connacht Shield, Division 1 side St Cuans/Ahascragh United travelled to Ballisodare but were beaten 3-0 by the home side.

Castlerea Celtic kept their hopes of winning the Premier Division very much alive when they beat title holders Ballaghaderreen 3-1 at

Ballaghaderreen. Jay McCartney gave the winners a 1-0 lead at half-time and Cathal Dineen added a second early in the second half. Liam Frain pulled one back for a young Ballaghaderreen side and they had claims for a penalty turned down near the end. With Ballaghaderreen going all out for a winner Ronan Curran sealed a win for Castlerea Celtic with a long-range volley into an empty Ballaghaderreen net.

Castlerea Celtic are a point behind Moore United but with a game more played. Boyle Celtic are three points behind the leaders but with a game in hand.

Shiven Rovers drew 0-0 with Castleplunkett side CP Ajax at Newbridge. Both teams were hoping to move up the table with a win but had to settle for a point each.

In the only fixture in Division 1 Ballinasloe Town beat Dunmore Town 2-1 at Dunmore. Cameron O’Leary and Musadique Fayaz Choudhry scored. Tom Byrne replied for Dunmore Town. Ballinasloe Town are a point clear of Skyvalley

Roscommon & District League

Oscar Traynor Cup Round 2

The Roscommon & District League take on the Sligo/Leitrim League this Sunday at the League grounds, Lecarrow with a kick-off time of 2 pm. This is a game the home side will probably have to win if they are to advance to the knock-out stages of this national competition.

While they were beaten 2-0 away to the Galway League in their first round, they could take many positives from the game. They were outplayed early in the game but once they settled they held their

own against a very good Galway League side. The home side have very talented players in Rion Carpenter, Charles Nevin, Dan Connolly, Paul Mee Richard Thompson, Damien Goggins, etc, and with home advantage they have a really good chance of picking up all three points.

Manager Robbie Shine has put a lot of work into the team and he is confident they can produce the goods. Members of the League wish the team and management well.

Rovers at the top of the table but the Taughmaconnell side have a game less played.

St John’s Athletic’s second side are top of the Division 2 table, one ahead of Kilkerrin United, following a 4-0 win over neared challengers Kilkerrin United at Kilkerrin.

Cam Celtic/Dysart kept their promotion hopes alive with a 6-1 win over Roscommon United at Dysart. Gareth Mulligan and David Cunniffe scored two each with Jamie Curley and John Why adding one apiece. In the Reserve Division Dunmore Town beat Boyle Celtic 6-0 at Dunmore. Castlerea Celtic beat Ballaghaderreen 9-3 at Ballaghaderreen.

In the Women’s League Ballaghaderreen FC beat Castlerea Celtic 3-2 at Castlerea. It was a very even game and Castlerea Celtic were unlucky not to get a point.

All five goals were scored in the first 30 minutes. Grace McDermott scored in the 1st and 12th minutes for the winners with Lannagh McGreal getting what turned out to be the winner.

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Wise Words

‘If

Girls U-16 team.

Elphin-Ballinameen supporters Emma Dwyer, Grace Cullen and Aloma Orobitg (visiting from Spain) pictured at last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs triumph over Tuam

Creggs 1st team travelled to Tuam to take on the locals in the Bank of Ireland J1A league match. The game was quick to get going with Tuam kicking an early penalty to go 3-0 ahead.

Creggs quickly responded with a ﬁne try. It started when Lee Kilcoyne made a break, releasing Mickey Dunne to score. Tuam responded quickly with two tries of their own.

Creggs however did not lie down and swiftly responded with a try in the corner after the pack worked a great maul. From the restart Creggs gathered the ball and played out of their own 22 and ran home, scoring a try from 80 metres out with Mark Kilcommons making the touchdown.

Creggs’ defence was on top all throughout the game and from a dropped ball by Tuam, Shane Dowd was able to capitalise and get in for a try which was converted by Shane Purcell.

The second half saw Creggs’ defence getting stronger, starting with Mark Kilcommons making a crunching tackle, releasing the ball for Mark Dowd to kick through, scoring another try (converted by Shane Purcell).

Tuam would not lie down and scored a try from a maul of their own, closing the gap. Creggs however will feel they left a few tries behind them in the closing stages, but overall it was a great result and great defensive effort by the team. Final score: Creggs 31 Tuam 20.

J1B LEAGUE: Sunday afternoon saw visitors Ballinrobe RFC visit Creggs to play our Seconds. The ﬁrst 20 minutes was really tight, being played between both 22s. Mike Feeley was playing a leading role making a number of breaks through the Ballinrobe defence. In the 28th minute the on-form Mark Brandon scored with a penalty from just inside the 10.

Ballinrobe won a penalty on the Creggs 10 which their out-half converted. From the kick-off Creggs won another penalty which Brandon slotted over to push Creggs 6-3 ahead. With only minutes to halftime Ballinrobe won a penalty from a

Creggs scrum inside the 22. The pack took it on in a maul scoring 7 points to lead 10-6 at the break.

Ballinrobe went 13-6 in front early in the second half. Creggs responded with some huge forward carries from Ronan Cahill, Mike Feeley and Nato Kiripati who moved out to the back row with the introduction of Danny Arnold. The pack started driving the heavier Ballinrobe pack, winning penalties. One of these was kicked into the 22 where Feeley took clean in the lineout, leading to a maul getting Eoghan Cahill in for 5.

The score was now down to just two and Creggs were dominating in all areas. It looked like a win was very possible but unfortunately a yellow card to Ronan Dowd with only eight minutes left made the struggle harder. Ballinrobe ﬁnished strongly with late scores to win 25-11.

WOMEN’S LEAGUE: Creggs senior women’s rugby team got their league campaign off to a winning start on Sunday in Creggs with a victory over University of Galway on a scoreline of 41-7.

Tries came from Jemima Adams Verling, Merisa Kiripati and Lisa O’Rourke which had Creggs 24-0 up at half-time. Further tries from Seren Grifﬁths and Shauna Walsh in the second half secured the victory. This was a great team performance. Well done ladies.

U-16 BOYS: On Saturday Creggs Boys U-16s travelled to Galway to take on Galwegians/Galway Bay in the final round of the league. In our first meaningful attack we were intercepted deep in our opponents half and this eventually led to the first try of the game. We had a try chalked off for a high tackle just before the break in what was becoming a heated game. Half-time: Creggs 0 Galwegians/Galway Bay 5.

The second half started positively and after a dangerous high tackle we were awarded a penalty under the posts which Sam Walsh knocked over to reduce the gap to two points. With 20 minutes to go another wayward pass was picked up by the Galwegians/Galway Bay scrum-half and he ran in under the posts. This

was followed up by another score from the home side from the kick-off. Before the end we conceded another try to leave the ﬁnal score: Creggs 3 Galwegians/Galway Bay 29. Creggs must now await other results to see if they have made the knockout stage of the league.

U-15 BOYS: Creggs U-15 Boys played their round 4 league match versus Carrick-on-Shannon early on Sunday morning. The home team got off to a very strong start, despite early injuries to Aydin Odemis and Austin Smith. The home side dominated the first half with tries from Darragh Connaughton and Tom Óg Reddington and Calvin Beckett adding the two conversions but Carrick struck back with a breakaway try to leave the half-time score 14-7. Creggs showed a lot more aggression in the second half and pushed on to score further tries from Mark Naughton and Noah Feely, Cathal Nerney adding a penalty to leave the final score at Creggs 27 Carrick-on-Shannon 7. Creggs now await to see who their quarter-final opponents will be. The team wish Aydin Odemis a speedy recovery, while the

management team would just like say how proud they are of all the squad for the effort they are putting in at training, resulting in the performances the lads are producing on the ﬁeld.

U-14 GIRLS (LEAGUE): Creggs U-14 girls played Ballina away on Saturday and came away with a good win. It was a great team performance.

Tries came from Eabha Finneran, Clodagh Finneran, Muireann Mulry, Amy Hannon, Saoirse Scott, Kate Thompson and Kayla Walsh. Conversions by Eabha Finneran, Darcy Thorose and Kayla Walsh. Well done team. Their next game is away to Westport next weekend.

U-13 BOYS: Creggs Boys U-13s played their near-neighbours Dunmore in a non-competitive league game on Saturday. Dunmore were

victorious. Creggs have their next game at home again this weekend, against Tuam RFC.

MINI RUGBY: Creggs Mini training looked like Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ with all kinds of monsters turning up for training on Saturday morning. Coaches took on a pivotal role getting involved in the fun where everyone received treats afterwards. Each group had a best dressed winner selected for extra surprises.

Well done parents. You make our little club a place of safety for our children to enjoy weekly supervised exercise involving fun.

LOTTO: Last week’s lotto was not won. The jackpot rises to €2800. The lucky dip winner was Susan O’Reilly. The lotto is used to fund our weekly teams. Please join to support the club.

Pictured at the 2024 Challenge Interpro U-17s game between Connacht and Munster, played in Creggs last Thursday, were former Creggs RFC President Adrian Leddy and Creggs players Dan Kelly (injured), Cian Kiernan and Kaylum Curran. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Creggs 2nds team. Photo: Steve Fahey

Creggs boys U-15s. Photo: Steve Fahey

The Creggs women’s team. Photo: Steve Fahey

Buccaneers host Ballymena and Greystones

Buccaneers square up to Ballymena in the Energia All-Ireland League at Dubarry Park on Saturday afternoon. This crunch Division 2A match between two winless teams kicks off at 2.30 pm.

This time two seasons ago Buccs were leading the pack in 1B but are now propping up 2A after a dreadful run of results, with an unprecedented amount of injuries not helping their cause. They are surely due some good fortune, albeit the injury list is unlikely to improve much ahead of this weekend. The northerners are undoubtedly low in confidence too so it may well boil down to who has the greater desire on Saturday. Hopefully, that will be the Pirates.

Meanwhile, Buccs U-20s have greatly improved performances and results in recent outings and they entertain Greystones in the JP Fanagan Leinster Premier League 2B at Dubarry Park on Sunday. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm.

LEINSTER LEAGUE PREMIER 2B:

Buccaneers and Galwegians served up a very entertaining, high-scoring JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2B encounter at Crowley Park on Sunday when the visitors reversed their Connacht League result with an excellent 47-28 bonus point victory. Buccs were a different proposition on this occasion and were full value for their win.

SECONDS: On an unseasonably mild night, Buccaneers Seconds came away empty-handed from their Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1A League meeting played under the Dubarry Park floodlights on Saturday. Connemara won by 31-0. Buccaneers welcomed Nenagh Ormonde to Dubarry Park on Sunday. It finished 29-26 to Buccs with Murphy, Herron and Rourke best up front and Movill, Donohue and Hughes strongest in the backs as Buccs gave their whole squad valuable game time.

U-14 BOYS: Buccaneers U-14 boys Division 2 team headed to Ballinasloe on Saturday hoping to bounce back from last week’s Connacht League defeat to Monivea. Buccs won 57-5.

Although it was a day of scores for the Buccaneers backline, this win was built on a huge performance by all their forwards who never allowed Ballinasloe to gain any momentum.

WOMEN’S TEAM: On Friday evening, Buccaneers senior women travelled to Tullamore RFC to play a friendly. Buccs were bolstered on the pitch by the addition of some Tullamore women, with all concerned playing extremely well together. Our women put in some huge tackles, made some great kick and run plays,

rucked and jackalled at every opportunity and put it up to a formidable Tullamore side.

On the scoreboard it wasn’t our evening but on the pitch Buccaneers women did themselves proud. Coaching for women’s players continues on Friday evenings from 7 pm. New players, including beginners, very welcome.

INTERNATIONAL ACTION: Congratulations to Buccaneers’ young trio – Andrew Henson, Kailin Blessing and Sean Glennon – who all played twice in Ireland U-18s clubs team against Italy last week.

Good luck to Robbie Henshaw, Dave Heffernan and Finlay Bealham ahead of the upcoming quartet of Autumn Internationals, beginning with the hugely anticipated game against New Zealand on Friday night.

CONNACHT SESSION: Connacht will hold an Open Training Session in Dubarry Park on Wednesday, November 20th. Full details to come.

TOUCH RUGBY: Congratulations to Old Wesley Touch team who were crowned 2024 ITA Men’s League champions on Saturday after an exciting encounter in Dubarry Park.

Buccaneers started strongly and led 2-1 before Old Wesley got into their stride to lead 4-2 at halftime. Despite a Buccs fightback in the second half, Old Wesley finished well to win 7-4.

Alex Connor got all four tries for Buccs while Rory Silke, Paul Gavin, Dara Irwin and Feidhlim Byrne all put in massive shifts in defence.

Well done to Old Wesley on their victory. They topped the league all through the season and are worthy champions.

For Buccaneers, it was a fine achievement to reach the final of the competition as they finished second in the table ahead of nine other teams.

Buccaneers: Paul Gavin, Dara Irwin, Nigel So, Alex Connor, Feidhlim Byrne, Colm McNally, Alex Connor, Ryan Copelin, Finn Copelin, Rory Silke.

Fashion Show a big success

Buccaneers Rugby Football Club’s Fashion Show, staged at Athlone’s Radisson Blu Hotel and sponsored by Carraig Donn, proved a hugely successful and enjoyable event, with a wonderful array of fashion from the top stores in Athlone and indeed further afield.

Mandy Maher was MC for the occasion and her fabulous Catwalk models strutted in style. They had hot competition from Buccaneers players who also took to the ramp like they were born for it! The Girls U-16 players also took to the catwalk.

Stylist Kelly McDonnell selected the Most Stylish ladies, sponsored by Wineport Lodge and Strawberry Hill, with two awards this year. Maureen Flynn from Athlone and Clara’s Elizabeth Fleming were the fashionable winners.

Mary’s SuperValu and The Bounty sponsored the Prosecco reception on arrival when those attending were treated to fine music by Ray O’Loughlin & All That Jazz. Later during the show there was a surprise appearance by The Galway Tenors who had the venue hopping.

Buccaneers RFC thanks all the stores who provided style for the models and is also grateful to those who took stands at the event. The Radisson Blu Hotel is thanked for again hosting the club’s Fashion Show and already we are looking forward to the next one! The club is very thankful for

But the ‘runway’ success of the Fashion Show did not happen simply by pure chance. Here

Coman’s swimmers shine at Longford Gala!

What an incredible day it was for St Coman’s Swimming Club at the recent Longford Gala! On a very busy day, with 32 swimmers representing us, the energy and enthusiasm were unmatched. Here are some stand-out results. Individual highlights: Scott Carroll secured 2nd place in U-9 breaststroke. Shay Lally took 3rd in U-9 breaststroke. Ava Kiernan won 2nd in the 100m backstroke, 200m free and 200m in her age group. Callie Hanly claimed 3rd place in U-9 100m backstroke. Aoife Lavin impressed with 1st in U-15 100m backstroke and 3rd in U-15 100m freestyle. Both the O-16 boys and O-16 girls relay teams brought home bronze medals.

The club said: “A huge congratulations to all our swimmers for their hard work and achievements. Your dedication and competitive spirit make us proud every time. Thank you to our amazing coaches, parents, and supporters who cheered on the team tirelessly. Well done, Coman’s team! Here’s to more outstanding results in the future”.

St Coman’s Club swimmers had great success at the recent Longford Gala.

all who attended the event, which had a super entry prize of B&B at Dublin’s Charlemont Hilton Hotel.

Buccaneers RFC is hugely indebted to the organising by not one but two Geraldine Kennys, aided by their support team including Claire Moore, Ann Marie Reid and Susan Carty. Well done ladies, and thank you.

Organisers of the Buccaneers RFC Fashion Show (l-r) Claire Moore, Ann Marie Reid and Geraldine Kenny pictured with stylist Kelly McDonnell.

Buccaneers players who modelled at the club’s Fashion Show (l-r) Atrio Abono, Corey Reid, Lucca d’Ambola Riera, Ross Murphy-Sweeney and Jared Brady.

St Coman’s Club swimmers had great success at the recent Longford Gala.

Congratulations to Old Wesley Touch team who were crowned 2024 ITA Men’s League champions on Saturday after an exciting encounter against Buccaneers in Dubarry Park.

SPORTS DESK

Paul Healy

Positive news for future of Roscommon GAA

The news that €5.5m has been granted to Roscommon GAA for the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence is very welcome. This is a fantastic and very exciting project. Roscommon GAA said this week that conﬁrmation of the funding will pave the way for a world class facility that will further develop Gaelic games in our county. In a statement, Roscommon GAA said: “The €5.5 million allocation will be directed towards developing essential facilities at the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence, including a modern clubhouse, gym, training pitches, and a dedicated training area. Additionally, ﬂoodlighting will be installed, enabling us to maximise the use of the facilities throughout the year”.

Roscommon GAA also made it clear that further funding will be required to ensure that the ambitious plans for this facility are fully realised.

It’s a positive milestone on this journey for a project that will be a force for positivity from a sporting, economic, social and indeed health perspective.

Strokestown Show, the new car, and Captain Con Power…

Captain Con Power. Those three words immediately evoke memories… memories of a golden era for Irish showjumping, of a time when the sport had a huge following around the country (which is not to say that it’s not still popular).

Con, who died last Sunday at the age of 71, was one of a famous sporting quartet. Ireland’s brilliant foursome of Paul Darragh (RIP), James Kernan, Dr Con Power and Granard-born superstar Eddie Macken graced showjumping for many years, coming to major prominence nationally and internationally in the 1970s.

The four won the Aga Khan trophy three years in a row (1977-’79), while individually they amassed many more victories. If you remember Con Power in his pomp, you’ll probably remember his famous horses too – Coolronan, Castlepark, and Rockbarton. There is a famous story linking Captain Con and County Roscommon. At one stage in the 1970s Con won a Chrysler car (sponsored by Jim Callery of Westward renown) at an event at Strokestown Show. However, because Con was an army rider, he was not allowed to ﬁnancially beneﬁt, and therefore could not accept the prize.

I’ve heard a few versions of this episode over the years, the best of which has it that the competition organiser, Strokestown man Ado Kenny (a giant of Irish showjumping, who died earlier this year) solved the dilemma by gifting the car to Con and his bride Margaret as a wedding present!

I was sorry to hear of the great Captain Con Power’s passing this week at just 71 years of age. He was a supreme horseman who thrilled audiences and TV viewers for many years. May he rest in peace.

Fond memories of magical Matt

Sky Sports doesn’t half put its vault of historical footage to use, constantly repeating old (well, Premier League era) games, interviews and highlights as part of its boundless output. Frankly, if you’re watching a repeat of a Premier League game from the mid-1990s, you’re probably watching too much TV! Still, just occasionally… I succumb to soccer nostalgia street. ‘Gary Neville’s Soccer Box’ is a simple idea, wherein the former Manchester United and England star turned pundit sits on a comfy couch with a top player from the past and looks back at footage of their career. Clips of goals/runs/tackles are interspersed with chat and some reminiscing on former playing colleagues and opponents alike.

I very rarely tune in, not because it isn’t an entertaining half hour, rather because life is busy and there’s more than enough media to be ‘consumed’.

But last weekend, on seeing that an episode on Saturday night featured a certain Southampton legend, I just had to watch. These days, in troubled modern-day Britain, Matt Le Tissier is a controversial ﬁgure. Labelled a conspiracy theorist by many, he is seen as an outspoken maverick. Be that as it may, he was one of the most gifted footballers of recent decades, and one of the best I’ve ever seen. The fact that he won just eight caps for England, stayed his entire career at Southampton, and never won a major trophy, merely adds to the fascination many football fans have for him.

At his best, he was simply breathtaking. Ofﬁcially a midﬁelder, he excelled at making match-winning interventions by (leisurely) strolling forward and scoring spectacular long-range goals. Le Tissier spent his entire career at Southampton (16 years), scoring 161 goals in 443 appearances. Many of those goals were sensational in their quality; only a handful (penalties apart) were ordinary. There was a period (around 1993-’94) when Le Tissier was a real-life Roy of the Rovers, scoring beautiful goals week after week. I

remember going on holidays to Majorca in ’94 and thinking ‘I’ll miss the soccer when we’re away’. I need not have worried. On our ﬁrst evening in the resort, we popped into an English bar and there on the TV was live coverage of the Premier League, Le Tissier sidestepping defenders before shooting past a powerless goalkeeper from 25 yards or so. In Southampton and Majorca, all was well with the world!

Here’s one you might have missed…

The FA Cup still has a touch of the old romance! 3,866 people turned up on a mild November day to watch Hednesford Town (from the eighth tier of English football) take on Gainsborough Trinity (from the seventh tier) in the FA Cup ﬁrst round on Saturday. These are English football’s modest but proud competitive backwaters.

Hednesford were the lowest ranking side going into the FA Cup ﬁrst round. The day before the game, they had sacked their manager, Steve King. This was due to a “breakdown in the relationship” between the club and Mr King. Not ideal timing.

In Saturday’s cup tie, Hednesford got off to a dream start, going a goal up after four minutes. By the 49th minute, they were 3-0 ahead, and on the cusp of some welcome cup joy.

But Gainsborough fought back, Declan Howe scoring twice before Will Lancaster equalised in the fourth minute of stoppage time. Turns out where there’s a Will there’s a way. 3-all, extra-time. Plucky Hednesford went back into the lead, only for Gainsborough to draw level again, in the second period of extra-time. 4-4. Penalty shootout.

Naturally, the Gods were against the home team… that’s Hednesford, the lowest ranked team in the competition, managerless going into the game, 3-0 ahead after 49 minutes. Sport can be ruthless. Gainsborough won 5-4 on penalties, with ‘keeper Dylan Wharton making three saves.

They all trudged back into their dressing rooms, heartbroken and ecstatic in equal measure. The fans meandered away from the ground, fulﬁlled by the magic of the cup, even at this low level. Away from the sometimes soulless world of the multimillionairepopulated top ﬂight, these honest pros (in some instances semi-pros or amateurs) had delivered, for themselves, and their loyal fan base. In many ways, this is the real beating heart of English football.

Five football All-Stars for Galway

All-Ireland ﬁnalists and Connacht champions Galway had ﬁve players selected on the PwC Football All-Star team for 2024, which was announced last week.

All-Ireland champions Armagh led the way with six players. In all, five counties are represented. Galway have five players included across defence, midfield and attack.

GPA CEO Tom Parsons said: “A remarkable year for Armagh is capped off with six players being named on the PwC All-Stars Football Team. Congratulations to each member of the Orchard County squad who have been selected. To have Sam Maguire and a PwC All-Star award to your name for 2024 is something to be very proud of. And Galway pushed them all the way once more with ﬁve players awarded. It reﬂects what was for them also a fantastic season”.

The PwC All-Stars were chosen by a panel of Gaelic Games correspondents from across print, radio, TV and digital media.

The PwC Football All-Stars for 2004 are: Niall Morgan (Tyrone); Johnny McGrath (Galway), Barry McCambridge (Armagh), Peadar Mogan (Donegal); Dylan McHugh (Galway), Aidan Forker (Armagh), Craig Lennon (Louth); Paul Conroy (Galway), Ben Crealey (Armagh); Rian O’Neill (Armagh), John Maher (Galway), Oisín Conaty (Armagh); Robert Finnerty (Galway), Oisín Gallen (Donegal), Conor Turbitt (Armagh).

Referee E Dolan in conversation with four Brea y players during last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final against Elphin-Ballinameen.

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Breaffy a step too far as a great campaign ends for Elphin/Ballinameen

< KEVIN EGAN AT THE CONNACHT COE

A remarkable journey for Elphin/Ballinameen U-17s didn’t get the fairytale ending that the North Roscommon club would have hoped for on Friday evening, as the combination club ran aground against a Breaffy side that simply had far too much athleticism and scoring power in what turned out to be a one-sided Connacht final at Bekan.

“You can see the spread of players they had on the field, their use of space, they were a step above. We never mind accepting that we were second best when you’re just beaten by a better team” said Frank Egan, who was stepping in as manager in place of the absent John Kelly.

Elphin/Ballinameen succeeded in throwing down the gauntlet to their opponents, who qualified for this competition by virtue of winning Division Two out of six tiers in Mayo – a far cry from Roscommon, where there were just two tiers overall.

Brothers Gordon and Dean Casey, members of the Roscommon minor team in 2024 and students in St Nathy’s College kicked things off with two excellent points, and when Ben McGarry’s shot for a point dropped short and was spilled over the line by Breaffy goalkeeper Cillian Curley, Elphin/ Ballinameen were five points to the good and poised to threaten an upset.

Within five more minutes, the sides were level, Breaffy’s goal coming from a Daniel Rabbitte penalty.

By half-time, they had conceded 1-7 in succession with only a Tadhg Morris free before the break stemming the flow, and that was how it continued in the second half as well. Full-forward Shay Golden was a constant threat and he brought his tally to 1-3 for the game with a point after ten seconds and a shot for goal that looped over Lorcan Beirne into the top corner, and with 42 minutes gone, it was 2-11 to 1-4 and Elphin/Ballinameen were visibly shattered from trying to stem the relentless flow of Breaffy

attacks.

In a move of sheer defiance, Dean Casey carried the ball at pace through the Breaffy defence and was dragged to the ground, only to spring up and catch the defence unawares with a shot for goal from nearly 25 metres out that went the whole way through.

Once again, Breaffy’s reply was exemplary. Golden split the uprights with a fine kick from an attacking mark, Rian Fallon added a third goal, and while the

scores dried up in the closing minutes, Breaffy were still full of running right up until the final whistle.

“Credit to the lads, even though we didn’t win Division Three in the league, they asked to be regraded into Division Two, which we did” said Egan afterwards.

“We didn’t feature in that either, but we hit a nice vein of form in the Roscommon U-17 blitz, which is a great innovation from the Roscommon Minor Board.

“Those lads will always be the first team to put their name on that shield for the first time, and they came on from that to win a tight game against the Leitrim champions by a point, then had a good outing in the semi-final and came in on a positive note into today, but we just met the best team that we played all year”.

Breaffy: Cillian Curley; Evan Mulchrone, Eoghan Murray, Adam Jennings; James Curran, Daniel Rabbitte (1-0, pen), Daniel Matthew; Ronan Loftus, Ross Connolly (0-2); Daragh Connor, Oisín Costello (0-7, 0-5f), Conor Loftus (0-1); Callum Masterson (0-1), Shay Golden (1-3, 0-1m), Rhys Neary (0-1). Subs used: Rian Fallon (1-0) for Masterson (51), Darren Casey for Matthew (51), Ryan Fadden for Jennings (58), Mark Mulchrone for Golden (59), Brian McDonnell for Neary (60+1). Elphin/Ballinameen: Lorcan Beirne; Gavin Kielty, Setanta Gleeson, Donnacha Higgins; Jack Mollahan, Gordon Casey (0-1), Frank Hassett; David Maciag, Cathal Enright; Eoghan Keaveney, Dean Casey (13, 1-2f), Owen McNamara; Tadhg Morris (0-1f), Cronan McLoughlin, Ben McGarry (1-0). Subs used: Tadhg Duignan for Hassett (half-time), Mikey McTeigue for Higgins (42), Paddy Murray for McLoughlin (51), Tadhg Clarke for McGarry (58), Aodán Sharkey for Keaveney (60).

Referee: Eamonn Dolan (Leitrim).

STAT ATTACK

Red cards: Breaffy 0; Elphin/Ballinameen 0 Yellow cards: Breaffy 2 (Murray 29, Curran 54); Elphin/ Ballinameen (Gleeson 56) Wides: Breaffy 5; Elphin/Ballinameen 6 Player of the Match: Conor Loftus

Action from last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final: Elphin-Ballinameen’s Jack Mollahan gets past his opponent. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final: Cathal Enright of Elphin-Ballinameen and Breaffy’s Ross Connolly compete for the ball. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Action from last Friday’s Connacht Minor B Football Championship Final: Elphin-Ballinameen’s Dean Casey in action against Breaffy’s Daniel Rabbitte. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell