Roscommon People 10 April 2020

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The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

Contacting THE PEOPLE

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

on If you have enquiries t a story advertising, or wan 54227, email covered, call 086-80 people.ie or paul@roscommon monpeople.ie advertising@roscom

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie

Tel. (090) 66 34633

10 April 2020

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 676

Tell the world about resilient Roscommon!

Public urged to celebrate Easter with ‘Virtual Parade’ Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the Roscommon People are inviting the people of the county to celebrate Easter – and Roscommon’s resilience in the face of crisis – with a communal social media initiative this Sunday.

With the annual Easter Parades in Roscommon and Strokestown cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic – and with the people of the county urged to remain in their own homes this Easter and beyond – a novel ‘virtual parade’ is being proposed.

While the county’s streets will be deserted over the Easter, it doesn’t mean that Roscommon people cannot celebrate Easter, and indeed express solidarity with one another. That’s why the Roscommon People newspaper and Roscommon Chamber of Commerce are inviting all Rossies to

a virtual parade at 12 noon on this Easter Sunday.

Brendan Allen, President of Roscommon Chamber said: “Who is in this parade, you might ask! Well, we want everyone to join in. At 12 pm this Sunday we are asking businesses, community groups, sports clubs and individuals to create a post on social media with the hashtag ‘ResilientRoscommon’. Share what you want. It could be photographs from previous years’ Easter Parades, which would be great. Or just general, positive goodwill messages at this difficult time. Be sure to also tell the world about Roscommon and how we will bounce back”.

Mr. Allen said this is an opportunity for Roscommon people to post on social media a proud message showing the world how we live in one of the best communities around. “Even in a virtual world we can create the magic of Easter in Roscommon!” #ResilientRoscommon

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Catching up: Phyllis McCormack from Ballaghaderreen, mother of our renowned local photographer Michael McCormack, chats to her granddaughter, Niamh, earlier this week… while observing social distancing restrictions.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople

HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

From our home to yours!

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH & DINNERS Take-aways and Deliveries on Easter Sunday Now taking pre-orders up to Sunday 12th April at 12 o’clock For menu, please ring 086 8538519 or see our Facebook page

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519

AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie Spouse Inheritance Rights

My husband passed away recently. I understand that he made a will prior to his death and he left his large farm to his nephew. The farm was in his name only. Our home was also in his name and he left me with just a life interest in my home and after my death it will also pass to his nephew. I am very disappointed and I feel ill-treated. Is there anything I can do?

The law governing wills, namely the Succession Act, 1965, provides unique protection for spouses of the deceased in Ireland.

You refer to a will and I am assuming that your late husband’s will is valid. You are entitled to onehalf of your late husband’s estate if he died having made a valid will and he had no children. You are entitled to one-third of your late husband’s estate if he died having made a valid will and he had children.

This entitlement is called a legal right share. The legal right share ranks in priority after the rights of creditors of the deceased and ahead of any other beneficiary.

You do not have to go to court to get your entitlement as the executor of his estate is obliged to grant this share to you where applicable. You should contact your Solicitor immediately to obtain legal advice as strict time limits apply in respect of claiming your inheritance share.

I should also mention that a surviving spouse may cease to be entitled to a legal right share in a number circumstances to include legal separation or divorce. It would be usual for a spouse to renounce their legal right share as part of the terms of a divorce or legal separation agreement following the dissolution of a marriage.

People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

So, what do you miss the most?

That’s easy…the football.

Yep! And apart from the football, what else? From the big stuff…the national and international events that have been cancelled…I mean, it’s such a strange year, like a year that’s almost been deleted, edited…

Well, here’s a guilty pleasure! I kind of miss all those people prancing about in colourful costumes, all that dodgy singing and relentless music…

Yeah, but the St. Patrick’s Day Parades HAD to be cancelled…

No, I’m talking about the Eurovision Song Contest!

Oh, right…and you miss IT? Like I said, guilty pleasure…

Wow! It gave us Johnny Logan and Dana and Charlie McGettigan and Sandie Shaw…

And Lordi…

Wha’?

The madACCIDENT Finnish group! Don’t you CYCLING remember…hard rock…and they were all dressed up as monsters!

If youIncredible! were involved in a cycling accident contact Well, it also gave us Bucks Fizz and…

Byrne Abba, soCarolan there!

Cunningham Yeah…andSolicitors Dustin the Turkey, and what do you call that annoying pair of brothers with the erratic hair…

The Healy-Raes were never in the Eurovision!

Ha ha! I mean…Jedward!

I’d almost forgotten about Jedward! But the point is…it was fun! Escapism! A tradition, ever year!

(There’s silence on the line) I wonder what became of those idiots in their mad costumes…

Jedward?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

No! Lordi!

Oh, they’re probably in the Finnish Government now, a lot of entertainers go into politics.

Do they?

Well, Dana did! And Frances Black!

And didn’t a poet become President of Czechoslovakia… …and our President is a poet!

And Donald Trump…TV star to President!

Less said the better…

Arnold Swas…Arnold Schwarz…

Arnold Schwarzen…the guy with the muscles…

The Terminator!

Yeah, that guy…he became a Governor.

I still doubt if Lordi ever went, eh…

mainstream. They’re probably reduced to appearances on Finnish reality TV shows…

You never know! I might Google them after this call…

We really have a lot of time on our hands if we’re Googling Lordi!

I wonder how the brothers would do for Ireland in the Eurovision?

Jedward? They had their chance…

No! The Healy-Raes!

Oh we don’t even know if they can sing!

That didn’t stop us sending Jedward!

Think about it. The Eurovision is no longer a singing competition…it’s about presentation, about…choreography! You could start with the camera zooming in on Michael. He’s on the stage on his own, sitting on a high stool…

Like the lads in Westlife?

More like Michael Bublé. He’s on the stool, one leg thrust forward, cap tilted on his head, broody expression, then suddenly he stands up and begins a mournful ballad…

I’m liking it…and Danny?

No, wait…so Michael’s now working the stage. He walks around in a circle, never straying too far from the stool, singing this plaintive ballad…hand on cap…and then…

And then?

The song suddenly goes uptempo, and Danny bursts on to the stage on the back of a lorry, playing the accordion at a furious pace, wearing a climate change denying t-shirt and yahooing…

It’s different, but don’t think it would win…

Maybe not, but it would go down a treat in Kerry!

Oh Lordi, we really do have too much time on our hands…

What we liked…

Paddy’s story. Ballinameen man Paddy Joe Lynch contracted coronavirus but has made a full recovery. The 82-year-old has been hailed as an inspiration to others.

What we didn’t like…

Some of the social media trolling of politicians and others who are leading the battle against Covid-19 is disgusting. (Thankfully the vast majority of people are decent).

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

What PEOPLE are talking about

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

THE WHOLE MOON IN HER HAND: This striking photograph of Tuesday night’s ‘Pink Moon’ shows Dr. Fred Henry (Castlerea) outside her house. Photograph taken by her daughter (also) Fred Henry.

Covid-19 (24/7)…including (with an eye cast across the water)…

Boris going into intensive care; The Queen’s Speech; also…

Mick McCarthy stepping out and Stephen Kenny stepping in.

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

03

NewsPeople In these challenging times, there is a need for positive thinking…for hope… and for kindness.

The advice to people is to try and stay calm.

To eat and sleep well. Exercise. Be kind.

It is important, during this Covid-19 health crisis, to look after ourselves, but also to look out for the welfare of others.

Looking after our collective mental health is so important now, more than ever.

At a time when making personal contact is not advised, there are other ways in which we can support one another, including by phone and through social media.

Sending a card or a gift is another thoughtful way of letting a loved one, a friend, a vulnerable or lonely neighbour, know that you are thinking of them… and that they are not alone.

Due to the Covid-19 health crisis, and in the interests of the health and welfare of our staff and customers, we are temporarily closed

Local artist Rita Oates specialises in artwork which is positive, hopeful, uplifting. Her collections of personalised greeting cards and prints and frames reflect the beauty of nature, the positivity that is all around… as well as hope and kindness.

Take a moment to view her inspirational work on www.ritaoatesartist.ie. Rita says: “I wish all who view my work the gift of positivity”.

Please follow all HSE guidelines and stay safe Main St, Roscommon Telephone: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie – Web: www.etlgifts.ie

www.ritaoatesartist.ie

The Eclipse

Believe

There is always light, no matter how dark…

This image of a solar eclipse is intended to inspire hope in the viewer that there is always light after darkness.

Believe, Believe, Believe… in Kindness… in Hope… in Miracles…

This image of candles represents the Irish tradition of lighting a candle for one’s own and others’ intentions.

It focuses on our innate need to feel the warmth of someone’s kindness; to believe in hope, to believe in miracles. It is often kindness and hope that sustains us.

Wishing you all a very Happy Easter Children, we know there are no Easter Parades this year and the Easter Egg Hunt will have to take place in your homes. So, to keep you busy(!), we have published an image alongside. If you would like to colour in the picture and send it to us, we will publish a selection in our forthcoming issues of the Roscommon People! Also, we invite all our young – and also not so young – readers to send us your favourite photographs of you and your family at home this Easter. Have fun!

Our address is: Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or email: news@roscommonpeople.ie or WhatsApp 087 7737063

Name: __________________________ Age: _______

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

04

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

A diary of the times that are (part 4) Thursday The ‘World News Journalist of the Year’ may well be the man or woman who unearths a major story that is not Covid-related. There is nothing else…

Most of us dip into the Internet a few times a day for news, sport or entertainment/trivia updates…but even that simple pleasure has been infected by the virus. We’re told (with good reason) to limit our Covid coverage intake, but it’s not that easy. Unless you go on to YouTube or some version of life BC – before Covid – there are very few websites you can access that aren’t carrying never-ending coronavirus references.

Up to a few weeks ago, when I browsed ‘Sport’ on the BBC or RTE websites, I got sport. These days, what purport to be sporting ‘stories’ are just more angles on Covid-19. The Olympics deferred. Speculation about how the English soccer season will be wrapped up. The Mick McCarthy/Stephen Kenny conundrum (since resolved). The consequences for the GAA season. There is virtually no respite.

When, out of boredom/Covid excess, I dipped into ‘Entertainment’ on the BBC website, the lead story was the death of the entertainer Eddie Large…from coronavirus. (Only readers of a certain vintage are likely to remember when Eddie’s star shone bright – Saturday night box office!).

I liked him a lot. He rose to stardom in the 1970s as part of a double act with Syd Little.

Little and Large were…well, ‘big’ back then.

Inexplicably, so were Cannon and Ball. Of course the superstars of the double act genre were Morecambe and Wise and The Two Ronnies.

Personally, I found Cannon & Ball very irritating, about as funny as those party political broadcasts that used to be slipped in before the Nine O’Clock News for five deeply tedious minutes.

By the mid-1980s, the Little and Large Show was a massive TV success. Syd Little’s role was as straight man, with Eddie Large wisecracking and doing some very decent impressions. He was a man of considerable talent, the main reason why their weekend specials attracted up to 18 million viewers. At their peak, they were major stars, in an era when Saturday

night telly was all about family entertainment in the form of sketches, dance routines and repartee between middle-aged men. Truth is, this type of comedy has not aged very well (cue a double-take from the ghost of Eric Morecambe). A lot of what we watched then would make us cringe now, but Eddie Large was a very talented entertainer who brightened our lives in those far-off days.

Friday The figures are rising in Ireland, to over 4,000 now. And yet, there is a real sense that we may be managing this crisis well. All we can do is compare ourselves to other countries, observe our own trends. And when we do that, we have to take some encouragement. The Taoiseach had, after all, speculated about there possibly being 15,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland by the end of March, and we are a long way from that tally. Of course we need an increase in testing in order to get a fuller picture. (Also, many peope may have already had coronavirus, but with minor symptoms).

But social distancing is clearly having a positive impact. The roads are much, much quieter, our towns and villages stripped of whatever vibrancy they had. This is good and necessary, albeit devastating for small businesses.

A Roscommon man has unexpectedly emerged as a symbol of hope. Paddy Joe Lynch from Ballinameen is on the front of the Irish Independent, and also featured on the RTE News and in other media. Paddy Joe (82) contracted the coronavirus and recovered from it, his discharge from Sligo Hospital a rare and inspirational good news story.

Saturday In our house we hoard newspapers; well, I hoard newspapers. I can’t resist buying them, particularly on Saturdays and Sundays. Then they pile up, parts of them unread, but not unloved, bulging sections of beautiful print. Sometimes I hoard them for two or three months. Then I blitz the pile on a Saturday or Sunday morning, flying through page after page, reluctantly binning some, retaining others in the hope that I will find time to read articles of particular promise.

Today, it’s a bit surreal to read headlines from be-

fore the virus went worldwide. The papers were focussed on the election outcome, on Sinn Féin and Mary Lou, flooding too…and of course the sports pages breathlessly reported on the Premier League, the Six Nations and the GAA leagues. So much has changed in the weeks since. It’s even strange to see photos of people in close proximity to one another. Meanwhile, the travel sections in the glossy magazines (from February/early March) tempt us to travel to far-off places for holidays or weekend breaks. The hoarded newspapers of February are like a window on a different world, one that’s not now open for business.

Sunday That was no tame finale to Sunday. First, Queen Elizabeth addressed her people. A little while later, breaking news: the UK PM Boris Johnson was admittted to hospital, his Covid-19 symptoms requiring tests. It was reported that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (formerly a doctor) will rejoin the medical register to help in the fight against the virus. And Scotland’s chief medical officer had to resign after making two trips to her second home during the coronavirus lockdown. Quite a Sunday evening…

Boris was barely in the ambulance and the Twitter trolls were gleefully relishing the opportunity to spread some more hate. There was an entirely predictable and nasty reaction on social media.

However, there were more than enough decent and caring sentiments to maintain one’s belief that the trolls are merely a pathetic minority, no proper reflection of society.

The Queen, in her 94th year, made a timely and highly impressive address to a wounded nation.

She is remarkable. It must have lifted the spirit of a people who are hurting.

Monday Everybody says we’ll be changed people when this is all over. Changed – and hairier.

We need to keep our sense of humour in these difficult times. We may also need to keep our hair. Either that, or join the ranks of people who are moving into DIY mode and getting their hair done at home!

Without the option of popping into the barber or

hairdresser, we fear a return to the hairstyles of the 1970s and ‘80s. Will we end up looking like The Bee Gees?

Or will we resemble those sheepish looking long-haired youngsters queuing outside dole offices in that footage from Reeling in the Years?

Tuesday Boris Johnson is in intensive care. The British people are in shock as news of their Prime Minister’s serious health deterioration suddenly races around the world.

This really is playing out like a movie, a dark thriller with a far-fetched plot. Problem is there are no ad breaks, the lights aren’t going up in this cinema. Not yet. Somewhere out there, frustrated scriptwriters with drafts marked ‘Mystery virus brings world to a standstill’ are tearing up their scripts/deleting their plot ideas.

But this won’t last. We need to keep following the guidelines and look out for one another. At some stage we’ll return to the sports’ pitches and the coffee shops and bars, with smiles on our faces. With a good deal more appreciation of how we need to appreciate the simple things in life. With a good deal to reflect on. And probably with a good deal more hair. Take care.

“

But social distancing is clearly having a positive impact. The roads are much, much quieter, our towns and villages stripped of whatever vibrancy they had. This is good and necessary, albeit devastating for small businesses.

05

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

#ResilientRoscommon

ROSCOMMON RESPONDS Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon

Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon

Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people Supporting and communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to People and Communities in Roscommon know that we are working on a range of community supports and measuresRoscommon while weLEADER are Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports and include…

Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communities facing with righttheacross Roscommon duein to Covid-19.

We want youPeople to A Roscommon Chamber of Commerceare initiative, support County of Roscommon Leader, and association with The Roscommon know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those inAs isolation/living To the people of Roscommon: a community, we need to respond to the Covid-19 crisis. Our health is the extending current services alone/elderly offeringmany a friendly voice from trained volunteers. to reach the wider community. These supports include… know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are

extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include…

Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of need and working with existing similar service providers in the Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of county. need and working with existing similar service providers in the county.

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

paramount concern. We must also keep Roscommon Town ‘moving’ to ensure that we can live as normally as possible.

For many years you have come to townExtending toinformation shop. services Now, with Roscommon Responds, the town will come to you!

Extending our supports under the volunteer our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

Extending our supports under the volunteer information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

need andResponds working with existing similar service providers in the Roscommon participant list ...

During the full lockdown essential services have full priority and county. in busy periods the vulnerable, cocooned and isolated are serviced first. and working in collaboration with Government Departments and Please note that all non-essential businesses listed are We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & available for emergencies and or essentials that you require.

Please call the business direct to discuss your requirements.

All products supplied and delivered from businesses will comply with current working in collaboration with Government Departments and the self employed including additional admin support. otherduring Agencies in Co.19.

Roscommon to carry support the restrictions unemployed for & delivery through this system (i.e. cigarettes alcohol), discuss this directly with the individual businesses.

HSE regulations/guidelines COVID Some items strict the self employed including additional admin support.

Category

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Products/services

All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Contact

Telephone: 090 6630252

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Meat

Gail: 086 8532915

McGuiness’ Total Health

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Chemco Pharmacy

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Hynes’ Pharmacy Pharmacy, Health, & Best for Baby Baby

Tattie Hoaker Health Store

Tomás: 086 0460176

Molloy’s Pharmacy

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Category Business Gail: 086 8532915 Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living Currently closed but available for urgent requests ESSENTIAL SERVICES alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Telephone: 090 6630252 All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices.

Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Pharmacy

We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision

Butcher shop

086 6052505

and Beauty

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We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision

Gannons Farm shop Poultry, Eggs & local produce 087 2526195 Learning, art, Cormican’s Office, School and Art Supplies

086 3277941 and working in collaboration with Government Departments and090 6626520 craft, office, Frances’ Homeware 087 6500931 Fruit and Veg Fullard’s Fruit and Veg Fruit and veg 086 1032341 Supporting People and in Roscommon other Agencies Roscommon toCommunities support the unemployed & Household Finishing Touches

086 8149510 in Co. Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people Sports Roscommon Sports

Sports workout gear 086 6091660 Bakery Molloy’s Artisan Bakery Freshly baked breads, cakes, the

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Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people

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087 7827171

087 9678432

needguidelines and working with existing similar Distancing service providers Practices. in the All activities will beservices carried out withcommunity. strict These adherence and compliance with HSE and Social Roscommon extending many current reach the wider supports include…

Timothy’s Londis Grocery, Deli, to Lotto, newsagents 090 6626809 county.

LEADER Partnership is here to help you through thisareas crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional of McNeill’s Grocery, Deli, Lotto, newsagents 090 6626481 need and working withplease existing similar service us providers in theof the following numbers: on any of our existing services contact on any Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living county.Western Union, Molloy’s Carry-out Off-licence, 090 6626120

Strict delivery terms apply to alcohol Telephone: 090 6630252 Tomás: 086 0460176

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

esponds’ ‘RoscommonnwilR l come to you! alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Gail: – 086fo 8532915 r now

e towInformation: Mena 086 0499394 thVolunteer

Extending our supports under the volunteer information services

to existing groups andto giving advice to We are looking for all businesses in Roscommon town that programme want to getvoluntary involved contact: volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

Extending our supports under the volunteer information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

Brendan Allen – 087 2231202 president@roscommonchamber.com Cait McConn – 086 0859275 secretary@roscommonchamber.com We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support.

Thank you – and stay safe

All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support.

All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

(please follow HSE guidelines re: Covid-19) Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

www.localenterprise.ie/response

If your business is being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, your Local Enterprise Office can help Businesses across Co Roscommon are currently in uncharted waters due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Many are facing critical challenges, including not trading temporarily, cash flow and financial difficulties, staff continuity options and an uncertain future.

Local Enterprise Office Roscommon is available to support local businesses in addressing these challenges and help ensure they’re in the strongest possible position in the face of unprecedented situation.

The Department of Business, Enterprise & Innovation has put a package of business supports in place, some of which are available through LEO Roscommon.

While all upcoming training events and face to face meetings have been postponed in the interest of public safety, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon remains open to assist local businesses with any queries they may have during this very difficult time.

FREE REMOTE MENTORING & TRAINING Local Enterprise Office Roscommon has arranged remote mentoring and training to support businesses in the county on the following: MENTORING: • BUSINESS/FINANCE/BANKING SUPPORTS & ADVICE • BUSINESS PLANNING • DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGY ONLINE TRAINING: • ORGANISE YOUR WORKPLACE FOR PRODUCTIVITY INCORPORATING COVID-19 GUIDELINES

Thursday, 9th April; 11am – 12.30pm

• MANAGING CHANGE WITH LESS STRESS Tuesday, 14th April; 2pm – 3.30pm

• TOOLS & TECHNIQUES FOR REMOTE TRAINING & CONSULTANCY Over 2 sessions, as follows: Tuesday, 14th & Thursday, 16th April; 9am – 10.30pm

• COVID-19 ACTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS Over 4 sessions, as follows: Tuesday, 14th April; 12pm – 12.40pm &Thursday, 16th April; 12pm – 12.40pm Tuesday, 21st April; 12pm – 12.40pm & Thursday, 23rd April; 12pm – 12.40pm

• WEBINAR FOR FOOD PRODUCERS WITH LEO MAYO Thursday, 16th April; 4.30pm – 5.30pm For full details and to book your place on any of the above listed mentoring/training: Visit: www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon

BUSINESS CONTINUITY SUPPORTS Local Enterprise Office Roscommon can also help you access supports for your business: • • • • •

BUSINESS CONTINUITY VOUCHER TRADING ONLINE VOUCHER SCHEME MICROFINANCE IRELAND LOAN SCHEME CREDIT GUARANTEE SCHEME €200M SBCI COVID-19 WORKING CAPITAL SCHEME

Please check back regularly for online training & supports on offer by visiting: www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon

Contact details: 090 6637267; 090 6637280; 090 6637278; 090 6637302; 086 805 1366

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople

Frank Feighan TD

Thank you for playing your part in an exceptional national effort to ‘Flatten the COVID19 Curve and to protect lives!

We need to continue; to stay at home, to respect social distancing and to practice good hand hygiene.

If you or your family need any help or assistance at this time, drop me an email to my Office at frank.feighan@oireachtas.ie.

Frank Feighan T.D. Constituency Office, Pearse Road, Sligo & Bridge Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon: 10AM - 4PM, Monday to Friday.

Tragedy in Tulsk as boy (5) dies in farm accident The tragic death of a five-year-old boy in a farm accident near Tulsk on Sunday last has stunned the community.

Conor (Joseph) Campbell from Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident occurred when the boy fell on farmland at Carrowgarve, Tulsk, just outside the village.

Emergency services were called to the scene just after 5.30 pm on Sunday. Air ambulance personnel were present. The boy was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was

taken to Roscommon University Hospital where a postmortem was subsequently held.

Conor was son of Joe and Emma Campbell of Corryard Wood, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim. He is mourned by his parents Emma and Joseph, brothers Mark and James, grandparents Maureen, Anthony, Kathleen and Jim, uncles, aunts, cousins, further relatives and friends.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private family funeral was held yesterday (Wednesday, 8th of April) in St. Patrick’s Church, Drumshanbo.

May he rest in peace.

Will these illegal dumpers pay heed?

Actions branded ‘a disgrace’ A person or persons recently reacted to illegal dumping in the Mount Talbot area by picking up the ‘offending items’, putting them in a bin and leaving a message for whoever was responsible for the offence.

A reader sent us this photograph, explaining: “I took this photograph on a road in the Mount Talbot area. The

people who put the sign up obviously recovered the rubbish out of the drain.

Indeed more rubbish has been placed in bags beside the sign.

“Rubbish is constantly being dumped on this road, which is a disgrace. It is a busy enough road with pedestrians, farmers, etc. As the message on the bin says, this is indeed a disgrace. We hope that by the Roscommon People publishing this photograph and exposing this behaviour, the offenders might think twice before doing it again”.

STAY SAFE

and follow HSE guidelines

Deputy Michael

FITZMAURICE

I would like to thank the community for working together in these difficult times.

Please continue to do so in the weeks ahead as this will benefit everybody towards a better future If you have any issue or concerns, mobile: 086 1914565 or email michael.fitzmaurice @oireachtas.ie

Declan Gordon, MVB, MRCVS.

Glenamaddy Veterinary Services Creggs Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

• M: 087 2543722 • Normal opening hours/24-hr service • No children allowed • Only one customer at a time

T: 0949659428

• Calf ear notch collections weekly as usual – please have ready in sealed bags with payment inside Please adhere to all HSE Guidelines www.glenamaddyveterinaryservices.com

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

Abbeytown, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6625940. Email: info@molloysbakery.ie • Website: : www.molloysbakery.ie

IT’S EASTER WEEK Place an order for YOUR special treat this weekend as stocks will be limited

Baking at home?

Flours (Cream, Strong & Wheatmeal) Yeast and Gluten Free flour available and in stock.

We are open for Fresh Bread on Easter Sunday and

Easter Monday from 9am until 2pm

We wish you all a Happy Easter

– Molloy family #staysafe

We are eternally grateful to all front-line workers and we continue to be thankful to our incredible team who are working so hard to keep us baking and serving our loyal retail and wholesale customers.

We are now partnering with a great team from Roscommon Leader and other local businesses to make life easier for our customers with home deliveries in and around Roscommon town Please continue to do your part in maintaining social distancing while shopping and keep your loved ones safe.

To help anyone who needs it, we will now offer home delivery within 5km of Roscommon Town.

Orders can be placed by: Website: www.molloysbakery.ie with a cut off time of 3 p.m. for next day delivery Email: info@molloysbakery.ie or telephone: 090 6625940

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Coronavirus Notice

For the safety of our valued customers and staff, our offices will be closed for this lockdown

Perhaps now would be a good time to have a financial review of your Pension, Life Cover or Income Protection Contact Aengus by email at aengus@oates.ie or by phone on 086 2573358

Cllr. Marty

McDERMOTT Tel. 087 3466064 Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184

A message from Councillor

Marty McDermott I know this is a very challenging time for people. Please observe all HSE guidelines and stay safe When exercising, make sure to observe social distancing guidelines We all need to look out for older people and those who are vulnerable I am available to personally deliver goods to people – call me at any time Please do not worry – this will pass PLEASE NOTE COMMUNITY SUPPORT HELPLINE –

FREEPHONE 1800 200 727

This Easter weekend ...

Stay Home – Stay Safe

Wishing you all a very Happy Easter from all at

The local paper!

Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel. 086 8054227 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie | news@roscommonpeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Conor leaves a legacy that will live for all time The sudden, unexpected death of Creggs native and former Roscommon footballer, Conor Connelly… hit us all like a bolt of lightning

It’s hard to believe it, but it’s over three weeks since we closed the doors of our pubs and clubs. As we departed from Mikeen’s with a bit of a singsong and a night of craic, nothing could have prepared us for the seismic shock that was coming down the line for the people of, not only Creggs, but the entire county of Roscommon, and large chunks of other counties all around the country.

The sudden, unexpected death of Creggs native and former Roscommon footballer, Conor Connelly, less than two weeks later, hit us all like a bolt of lightning. In my lifetime it is hard to recall any other passing that had such a profound effect on our little village – and indeed on so many other different communities all over the country.

It was always obvious that Conor was a talented footballer – that he was destined to make his mark on the gaelic football fields of Ireland – but I have to admit that it is only since his passing that I have come to appreciate the absolutely massive impact he had in so many clubs, and on so many people. That impact was made from Creggs to Ballinlough, to St. Jude’s and UCD in Dublin, to Ballycumber in Offaly, and of course with the county footballers of Roscommon.

His influence on the journey to

The late Conor Connelly pictured with his wife, Claire and their three children.

Roscommon’s Connacht final win in 2001 has been well documented. That year, in my opinion, he was one of the finest players in the land. One of the great ironies of being from Creggs is that a lot of us support the maroon and white of Galway, and there is no doubt that Conor absolutely loved to beat us – and through the years he often reminded us of the many times the Rossies got one over us.

Back in 1993 I was manager of Creggs Junior team, and as a county minor Conor was a key member of our side. It was

obvious even then that he played his football on the edge, and it would be an insult to his memory to gloss over the fact that he at times could test referees’ (and team managers’) patience.

However, his career is testament to his considerable prowess as a footballer, and all the way from colleges to club to intercounty he featured at the highest level and leaves a legacy behind him that will live for all time.

However it was as a person that Conor shone the brightest. It is true to say that despite his enormous success – both professionally and sporting-wise – he never changed, and never lost interest in Creggs. When talking to him you would never guess that he had achieved all that he had in his all too short life. In fact he always made everyone feel that they, not he, were the real football stars, and he was always available to give advice and tips to anyone that wanted them.

The Covid-19 disaster meant that we couldn’t even go to pay our respects to his heartbroken family, but in fairness to our own parish and the wider Roscommon football community, the send-off that Conor got will live long in our memory.

The flying of Roscommon flags all the way through Athlone and beyond as the devastated Connelly family made their way to Ballycumber for their final farewell must provide them with some measure of comfort.

All I can do is express my sincerest sympathies to all the Connelly family and to Conor’s wife Claire and their three heartbroken young children. May he rest in peace.

We are blessed with our small country roads…

For a good number of years now I have told you all about the huge benefits of living in the country. If ever I was to be proved right, it has to be since we – along with the rest of the country – went into lockdown, and life as we know it effectively ground to a halt.

The term ‘lockdown’ almost suggests that we are prisoners in our own homes, and maybe in some larger towns that could be the case, but here in Crosswell, outside Creggs, nothing could be further from the truth, as we are blessed with loads of little country roads where we can walk safely and without any danger of ignoring social distancing or self-isolation regulations.

In fact in the three weeks

since Covid-19 closed the country down, I have not missed a single day’s walking, averaging five to six kilometres a day. If I get any fitter I could line out for Creggs again this summer – that is, of course, if there is any club football at all this year.

The other great advantage of rural walks is that you will meet the odd farmer out herding his cattle or keeping an eye on his new-born lambs, and, even in these times, you can have the odd chat. I have to admit that as I am no longer let out to do the shopping I look forward to the chat, even if we have to keep our distance – thankfully not a problem

in rural Ireland. And so I confess that I am quite okay with self-isolation. I believe the people in charge of our Covid defences are doing a very good job, our own population is following the advice we are getting from the health and medical people, and hopefully in time we will all slip back into normality. Although we might well ask will anything ever be normal again?

The other huge development in my life is that I have become a baker of fancy buns, and my iced queen cakes have become a favourite in Crosswell over the last few weeks. Pat the Baker watch out – Frank the Baker is coming after you.

And finally…

Finally for this week, I have found myself watching more television than normal, and this evening I came across a programme called ‘The Test’, which follows drivers as they prepare for (and take) their driving test.

Lo and behold, among the people featured was our own Creggs rugby player, Danny Arnold. Danny, a student, and a well-known local musician, was seen driving round the town of Roscommon before and during his test, and the good news is that he overcame an early minor hiccup and successfully came through it. I have to say it was great telly. I really enjoyed it and will watch it again.

In the meantime, congrats Danny, happy and safe motoring, and you have no excuse now to miss any of Creggs’ future rugby matches.

‘Till next time, bye for now, keep obeying the health experts – and stay safe.

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

STAY SAFE

11

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople

Reeling in the ARCHIVES

News, views and something to amuse…

5 YEARS AGO What happened when Gerry came knocking at FG door < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Colourful by-election candidate Gerry O’Boyle (Independent) made an unexpected appearance at a Fine Gael meeting last Friday – but not for long.

Fine Gael hosted the Roscommon-Galway AGM in Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon, on Friday night. Events took an unscheduled turn when Mr. O’Boyle, a candidate in last October’s Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election, turned up.

He told the Roscommon People that he did so with a view to potentially joining the party. “I went along because there was an article in The Irish Times last Wednesday, where Finance Minister Michael Noonan said he was leaving the door open for Independents to go into coalition with them (Fine Gael) after the next election”.

Mr O’Boyle, who has previously said he will contest the next general election in the Mayo constituency – as an Independent – says he wasn’t made very welcome by his would-be Fine Gael suitors.

He said: “When I turned up at the meeting…I was told I was not a member of Fine Gael. I said that I knew I wasn’t a member of Fine Gael, but when I get elected in Mayo next year, I want to know who I am getting into bed with…I said I would pay my membership, but they refused to take it off me”.

Mr. O’Boyle alleged that a party officer and an elected representative accused him of hijacking the meeting and promptly ‘threw him out’ – (not literally).

(From 6 March 2015)

10 YEARS AGO From Frank Brandon column

You will have seen on all the papers that Harrod’s in London was sold this week, supposedly to members of the Qatar Royal family. Don’t believe a word of it, because after our recent visit there when we were at the rugby match, I can now proudly reveal that myself and Johnnie Whyte are the new owners. It was only €1.6 billion so I gave Mohammed Al Fayed a cheque and told him not to cash it ‘til the weekend!

(From 31 May 2010)

From Seamus Duke column

The events of the past week have shown once again just how much of a disconnect there is between politicians at the top and ordinary people.

It has been my firm opinion for a long time that the vast majority of Oireachtas members have not got a clue about what it’s like for a lot of families at the present time. What a lot of people do not realise is that the savage budget that we saw in December is only part one of four. God himself only knows what the country will be like after part four.

It’s not that a Fine Gael/Labour government will improve things much either, but they deserve their chance after 14 years of almost non-stop FF Government. Maybe a new Government would produce people with new ideas. I doubt it, but they deserve a chance at least. (From 26 February 2010)

Pictured at the launch of the 2010 Roscommon Drama Festival were Marie McCrann, Mary Cox, Con Connolly, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Mary Finn. Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

Oops, think I found the Easter Bunny! Jemima Reynolds with Mister Bunny Hop at Frenchpark & Districts Childcare’s 10th anniversary celebrations in 2015. Picture: Michael McCormack.

Marta Kaminska pictured at Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon in 2008.

Angelina Jolie for Boyle? Surely not!

As exclusively revealed in the Roscommon People a number of weeks ago, Boyle man Paul Young is in contention for an Oscar following the news that an animated film which he produced – ‘The Secret of Kells’ – had received a nomination in the Best Animated Feature category.

The Oscars take place on March 7th next. Paul is son of Sean and Ann Young from Boyle and we liked this reference to the whole happy episode in the Boyle GAA Club notes this week: “Oscar mania has struck Boyle and Sean and Ann will be rubbing shoulders with the Hollywood glitteratti as they support Paul as he bids to win an Oscar…we wish them every success. Rumour has it that Angelina (Jolie) will be invited to the opening of our new clubrooms!”

(From 26 February 2010)

12 YEARS AGO Dawn and out The Ballaghaderreen area was dealt a huge blow on Friday evening last when it was revealed that Dawn Meats is to close its meat factory in the town, with the loss of 200 jobs to the town.

Discussions on redundancy packages and a timescale for the plant closure involving both Dawn

Meats and trade union representatives, took place yesterday (Wednesday) but little progress was reported and another meeting is scheduled for next Wednesday.

Local representatives this week expressed their shock and disappointment at the announcement and called on the IDA and the Government to find replacement jobs for Ballaghaderreen. 80 workers will lose their jobs and the remaining 120 will transfer to a sister plant in Ballyhaunis.

(From 11 January 2008)

From Marta Kaminska ‘Musings’ column

When I was in Poland I occasionally co-operated with our Polish TV. We made a documentary movie about people who experienced problems at work. I had really good fun and I was really surprised that I got paid for this good fun. After five years, I have in my head my own movie.

I am lucky because I live in a time when with average equipment, a few ideas and hard work, using my home computer, I can create a movie.

Still, we hear fantastic stories about amateur film makers who, for small money, make movies and put to shame huge Hollywood productions. It’s a fact that the most important thing is the idea and not just an idea for the topic, but also an idea for its cheap realisation. It’s also like that with my movie, which I decided to make in Roscommon.

For two years I have been observing the town and it has surprised me in many ways. First of all, it surprised me how many different nationalities and

cultures live side by side. From one side, Roscommon is a one hundred percent Irish town with tractors, a mart, wellingtons and Guinness. Alternatively, you can meet people from the other side of the world. Before, I thought that Dublin was an amazing great place where a cultural mix can live side by side. But the city has lost its true roots along the way and the modern community wants to be super European. Roscommon and its inhabitants is a really interesting idea for the movie.

My main characters are three normal people living in a normal Irish town. One Polish, one Irish, one Brazilian, three different roots, three different way of thinking, living in one town, shopping in one place, drinking in one pub. How did it happen that they found a common language…no longer think about English language? I know how this usually starts. We are fascinated with different cultures, really curious, very fast at making friends, but how does this look on a normal day when surrounded by the simple everyday problems, when difference, which before was fascinating, now starts to reveal little problems? My story starts at this point.

Now with me as director and operative and my boyfriend as photographer and co-director, we are fighting with misfortune, trying to make our dream become a reality. We really want to make this movie and we can do it. We have an expression when something looks impossible to do, that you are taking on the sun with a hammer – and sometimes I think that it’s like that with our project. But the world is moving because of dreamers and mad people...

(From 11 January 2008)

conduct business with us over the PHONE or ONLINE.

And just as we’ve helped members NewsPeople through adversity in the past, we will do everything that we can to be sure that

Roscommon Credit Union – HERE2HELP

we are here to support you.

or more info on Covid-19 related updates, please visit our website at Important update for members roscommoncreditunion.ie.

In the face of the incredible challenges

brought on by Covid-19 we have seen ordinary people going to extraordinary lengths to help others. And just as we have helped our members through adversity in the past, we will do everything that we can be sure that we are here to support our n Credit Union to Limited d by the Centralmembers.

Bank of Ireland.

As of this week we have introduced three significant new measures to best support, protect and serve all our members, our dedicated staff and the communities we value and serve. These measures include: Amended opening hours in our Roscommon office; special attention to our cocooning members; introduction of a new Covid-19 Here2Help loan.

Amended opening hours (Roscommon office) We would like to reassure our members that we are still open should you need to use our services. We advise those who can, to use our online or phone services wherever possible.

In light of the evolving situation and in the interests of public safety, we have taken a decision to temporarily amend our Roscommon office opening hours. Effective Monday, April 6th our Roscommon office will now be closed on Mondays, until further notice. Our office will open Tuesday-Friday, 10 am to 3 pm and close for lunch daily from 12-12.30 pm.

Our Elphin and Strokestown offices remain temporarily closed. Members who transact in these branches can avail of services in our Roscommon office. We would encourage members to only visit our office for necessary transactions and where possible transact via phone, email and online. The staff of Roscommon Credit Union are available to deal with member queries via phone (090 6626657) and email (info@roscommoncreditunion.ie).

In addition, members are reminded they can continue to access their accounts via the credit union’s online and mobile banking service CU247. We have temporarily suspended the opening of new member accounts, enabling us to focus all our efforts on serving the needs of our existing members.

We understand that this will inconvenience many of our members but we believe it is in the best interest of all our members, staff and the communities which we serve.

Please visit our website and social media channels to keep up to date with our opening hours and possible further Covid-19 service restrictions and/or updates.

Special attention to our cocooning members We wish to reassure our cocooning members that we are here to help in whatever way we can. Cocooning members will not be left without. If members need to access their account while cocooning at home, we have introduced a new member authorisation facility. This facility enables our cocooning members to grant authorisation to a person of their choosing to withdraw funds from their account up to the value of €300.

To download a Member Authorisation Form, please visit our website www. roscommoncreditunion.ie (in particular our Covid-19 update), download and complete

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

Roscommon Credit Union the form. Member authorisation forms can then be submitted to our Roscommon office where funds from the member’s account will be given to the authorised person.

We also offer an Express Lodgement facility for members wishing to avoid physically visiting our office, but who want to lodge funds to their share and/or loan account. Members can simply place their money in an envelope, clearly marked with their name, account number, address, date, telephone number and instructions as to where they wish the funds to be directed.

Envelopes can be dropped into our Express Lodgement secure post box located on the exterior of our Roscommon office (to the left of the main door). We also have express lodgement envelopes and paying in slips available for collection in the foyer of our Roscommon office. Members are free to take as many as they need.

If members wish to receive an account balance at any time, they can request a statement free of charge by contacting us on 090 6626657. Alternatively, email info@rosocmmoncreditunion.ie.

Here to Help You We’d like to let our members know we are still open should they need to use our services – and that they can also conduct business with us over the PHONE or ONLINE. And just as we’ve helped members through adversity in the past, we will do everything that we can to be sure that

we are here to support you.

For more info on Covid-19 related updates, please visit our website at roscommoncreditunion.ie.

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon Credit Union

NEW Here2Help Loan At Roscommon Credit Union we understand that many of our members will face unexpected hardship through unemployment and other events associated with Covid-19. We have developed a special loan in response to Covid-19 – our ‘Here2Help’ loan.

For more information on our Here2Help loan please contact Roscommon Credit Union on 090 6626657, email info@ roscommoncreditunion.ie or visit our dedicated Here2Help loan page at www. roscommoncreditunion.ie.

Are you experiencing financial difficulty?

We are urging members experiencing financial difficulty at this unprecedented time to contact us either by phone, email or online, to discuss possible flexible arrangements regarding their loans over the coming months. We can assure members they will be treated fairly and with empathy.

We are also aware of moneylenders continuing to target people in our local community in recent times. If our members find themselves in financial difficulty, we would ask that they speak with us first.

Bernie Moran, Manager, Roscommon Credit Union says: “We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our members for their continued support, understanding and cooperation at this difficult time. We will endeavour to support our members in whatever way we can. Please stay safe”. * For updates please follow us on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/LinkedIn. To contact us…

Tel: 090 6626657 Email info@roscommoncreditunion.ie

Members of An Garda Síochána on duty in Ballaghaderreen earlier this week.

All telephone and email queries will be dealt with as usual during our regular opening hours of 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday

Stay Safe and Take Care

TELEPHONE: 0719633174 Email: info@mannioninsurance.ie Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A as Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople “This is an extremely difficult time for everyone but it will pass and there will be better days ahead. Stay safe and be responsible.”

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

COVID-19

INFORMATION

Wash your hands Practice social distancing Don’t be afraid to ask for help Check in on elderly neighbours Be kind

IF YOU NEED ANY HELP OR ADVICE DO NOT HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME

 : 0871945254  : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

Over 6,000 cases of Covid-19 confirmed The number of deaths in the Republic of Ireland linked to Covid-19 has risen to 235, as of Wednesday afternoon. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre reported on Wednesday that 25 more people (15 males and 10 females) diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland have died. Thirteen deaths were located in the east, eight in the north, two in the south and two in the west of the county.

The median age of reported deaths is 80, and eighteen of those who died were reported as having underlying health conditions. As reported at 1 pm on Wednesday, 8th of April, there were 235 Covid-19 related deaths to date in the Republic of Ireland.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre reported a further 365 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland, bringing the total as of Wednesday to 6,074 confirmed cases.

The HSE is now working to identify any contacts the patients may have had to provide them with informa-

tion and advice to prevent further spread.

As of midnight, 6th of April, the data from the HPSC reveals: * 46% are male and 53% are female, with 299 clusters involving 1,288 cases * The median age of confirmed cases is 48 years

* 1,472 cases (25%) have been hospitalised * Of those hospitalised, 224 cases have been admitted to ICU * 1,568 cases are associated with healthcare workers * Dublin has the highest number of cases at 3,268,

(55% of all cases) followed

by Cork with 431 cases (7%) * Of those for whom transmission status is known: community transmission accounts for 67%, close contact accounts for 23%, travel abroad accounts for 10%

Sharon, Courtney and Keith Egan out for exercise near their home in Ballinameen, Co. Roscommon on Monday. Photograph: Michael McCormack

Dan Dooner

Seamus Duke

Lions Club’s radio initiative in response to Covid-19 Roscommon Lions Club has launched a special project in conjunction with RosFM community radio station – a radio show aimed at lifting people’s spirits during the Covid-19 crisis.

‘The Rossie Way’ is a new one-hour afternoon radio show which will be presented by Seamus Duke and Dan Dooner.

It will air at 3 pm Monday to Friday (on 94.6fm).

Listeners in the Roscommon town area and on the Internet can look forward to hearing some of the positive things going on at the moment in the community. The intention is to offer an alternative to the ongoing Covid-19 coverage and focus instead on topics that will bring a little cheer.

The Lions Club are very grateful to the Manager of Tesco, Stephen Corrigan, for sponsorship of 50 transistor radios which will be delivered to residents who are cocooning in Roscommon town. An Post has offered to deliver a radio (set on the dial 94.6fm) to people who have been identified by members of the Lions Club.

This service will also be available in nursing homes and care institutions.

The new show will include news, sport, gardening, cookery, health tips, interviews, comedy and a daily quiz with prizes which will include free shopping vouchers from Fleming’s SuperValu (Roscommon) and Keane’s SuperValu (Athleague and Lanesborough).

President of Roscommon Lions Club Dermot Cox said: “We are a small Lions Club but we have been looking at ways in which we can still make a difference at this very difficult time.

“A lot of people are confined to their homes and the daily diet of TV and radio news on the Covid-19 outbreak can be a little overpowering sometimes. So the Lions Club members came up with a way in which people can get a little boost when they turn on the radio and look for something else to hear about or talk about”.

For more details, please contact any member of Roscommon Lions Club or email roscommonlionsclub@gmail.com.

opportunities for off farm employment and no unfair advantage for forestry compared to farming.

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople

Health is wealth

â&#x20AC;˘ I fully support the implementation of SlĂĄintecare and among my priorities will be to ensure significant investment in Homecare packages, incentives to recruit and retain rural GPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, an upgrade of Mental Health Services and employment of more frontline staff.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION For Sunday, 12th of April Jesus is nowhere visible. Yet todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gospel tells us that Peter and John â&#x20AC;&#x153;saw and believedâ&#x20AC;?.

What did they see? Burial shrouds lying on the floor of an empty tomb. Maybe that convinced them that He hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been carted off by grave robbers, who usually stole the expensive burial linens and left the corpses behind.

But notice the repetition of the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;tombâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â seven times in nine verses. They saw the empty tomb and they believed what He had promised: that God would raise Him on the third day.

Chosen to be His â&#x20AC;&#x153;witnesses,â&#x20AC;? todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Reading tells us, the Apostles were â&#x20AC;&#x153;commissioned . . . to preach . . . and testifyâ&#x20AC;? to all that they had seen â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â from His anointing with the Holy Spirit at the Jordan to the empty tomb.

More than their own experience, they were instructed in the mysteries of the divine economy, Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s saving plan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to know how â&#x20AC;&#x153;all the prophets bear witnessâ&#x20AC;? to Him (see Luke 24:27,44).

Now they could â&#x20AC;&#x153;understand the Scripture,â&#x20AC;? could teach us what He had told them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that He was â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Stone which the builders rejected,â&#x20AC;? who, todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Psalm prophesies, will be resurrected and exalted. (see Luke 20:17; Matthew 21:42; Acts 4:11).

We are the children of the apostolic witnesses. That is why we still gather early in the morning on the first day of every week to celebrate this feast of the empty tomb and give thanks for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christ our life,â&#x20AC;? as todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Epistle calls Him. Baptized into His death and Resurrection, we live the heavenly life of the risen Christ, our lives â&#x20AC;&#x153;hidden with Christ in God.â&#x20AC;? We are now His witnesses, too. But we testify to things we cannot see but only believe; we seek in earthly things what is above.

We live in memory of the Apostlesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; witness, like them eating and drinking with the risen Lord at the altar. And we wait in hope for what the Apostles told us would come â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â the day when we too â&#x20AC;&#x153;will appear with Him in gloryâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Brexit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not over

â&#x20AC;˘ Even the most favourable Brexit deal will have 15 a disproportionate impact on the North West and border regions, adequate Government and EU support to vulnerable sectors must be put in place where necessary.

Marian Harkin

Promised North West Growth Centre

â&#x20AC;˘ One of my priorities will be the delivery of the necessary investment and infrastructure to develop Sligo as a Growth Centre as this will To help stop the spread of coronavirus the entire Housing and Homelessness (COVID-19)benefit Northasked West, including; everyone has been to stay at â&#x20AC;˘ It is vital that Local Authorities are properly home until April 12th.

Further upgrading of the N4 through Leitrim, financed are properly financed to deliver on Roscommon to Sligo; Social housing needs. Land hoarding should During this time, I am unable Delivery of high-speed broadband to the A further POEM FOR EASTER taxed to incentivise private house building. to meet you personally but I entire region; am contactable through my Fr. C.A. Mullaney Email is best.

Caring about Carers Completion of theoffice.

Technological University Christ is Risen â&#x20AC;˘ As chair of the carers group in the European project for Sligo I.T., Letterkenny EMAIL: I.T. with GMIT Out the sepulchre He comes the cause of Carers Parliament I championed which will support indigenous businesses and marian@marianharkin.com Christ in all His Glory Clad, leave,countenance proper respite care and the recognition attract investment.

Fulgent the sun-light or Nigh bedims strength it had marian.harkin@oireachtas.ie of the hugeand contribution Family Carers make to ourissociety and economy.

I will continue to care Pensions Night past and bondage broken Telfor (071) Death the price of ransom paid, â&#x20AC;˘ The age of qualification the 9132105 Old Age Pension about Carers.

Resurrection through His anguish should revert to 65.

Life redeemed the way is laid KEEP SAFE

An INDEPENDENT with a proven track record Vote

HARKIN

Marian Harkin â&#x20AC;˘ INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ HARD WORKING â&#x20AC;˘ EXPERIENCED â&#x20AC;˘ COMMITTED No 1 TO YOU

Balmed breath the earth is breathing Purity its host divine Self-same body as that mangled Raises He our Lord benign

For all up to date information on Covid 19 contact:

Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faith no longer falters Stauncher grow disciples all, He who promised to be with them Failed them not nor ever shall

www.hse.ie or www.gov.ie Email: marian@marianharkin.com May we sing the truth this Morn

Listen to His gentle call, We may hope in God our Father In Him who notes the sparrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fall

@marianharkin

Roscommon People.pdf 1 06/04/2020 16:37:07

www.facebook.com/marianharkin

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16

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

POLITICAL PEOPLE

Castlecoote man Paul Hickey (34) works as an economist in Ireland’s pharmaceutical industry.

He is a former employee of the Roscommon People and has a keen interest in politics.

Guest columnist: PAUL HICKEY

Charlie Hopkins brought hope to his own people Good leaders set out not to lead, but to make a difference. Charlie Hopkins, who died on April 1st, was such a person.

Twice chairperson of Roscommon County Council, Charlie Hopkins was famous as leader of the beleaguered Arigna miners. He used those positions to provide representation, remedies and renewed hope for a community that was in despair.

Life was tough around Lough Allen in the 1980s and ‘90s. When the Arigna Mines closed in 1990, 214 local people lost their jobs. The impact was devastating. By 1996, unemployment in the area was 64% – higher than anywhere else in Ireland – and 45% of affected workers had not been able to secure new jobs.

He leaves an extensive legacy. As a politician in the ‘90s and 2000s, Charlie Hopkins secured resources that led to new employment and renewed hope underneath the Iron Mountains. Arigna Fuels employs 55 people today. The Arigna Mining Experience is now a busy tourist attraction. The O’Carolan Harp Festival is a national event.

Keadue was, uniquely, national winner of Ireland’s Tidy Towns competition twice during his political tenure.

Earlier, as a union leader in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Charlie Hopkins achieved improved working conditions for miners at a time when ‘Stardust Ireland’ didn’t place much emphasis on health & safety for workers. Recently, as an activist in the National Coalminers Group, he secured recognition and supports for ex-miners who are afflicted by diseases caused by working underground for long periods.

Frenchpark’s John Connor, Dáil Deputy for Roscommon in the ‘80s and 90’s, introduced Charlie Hopkins to Fine Gael. Mr. Hopkins was a Fine Gael county councillor from 1991-2009 and continued to be active in his party until his death.

As a politician, he enjoyed remarkably strong local support, regularly polling more than 70% in polling stations in Arigna, Ballyfarnon, Keadue and Corrigeenroe. He had good intelligence, understood clearly the financial circumstances of local households, and was well liked.

He had excellent political judgement and a strong political organisation in North Roscommon.

Charlie Hopkins was a dealer in hope. Those who wish to understand the scale of Arigna’s economic and social problems in that grey era should read Denise McMorrow’s excellent “Is there light at the end of the tunnel” 1998 paper, which is available online.

Terry Leyden crosses line of 46-year political marathon Congratulations to Terry Leyden, who retires this spring after a 46-year political career that spanned 16 years in in Dáil Éireann, 22 years on Roscommon County Council, 18 years in Seanad Éireann and tenures in two ministerial departments.

Democracy in an independent Ireland began in 1922, 98 years ago. Terry Leyden, in public life for almost half of the time that has passed since then, must be regarded as a pillar of democratic politics in our country.

He is a living link to a distant past.

Stamina, optimism and colour are some of his notable political characteristics. His political career has been sustained also by the support of his wonderful wife Mary and his loyal family. His courtesy, generosity and good humour are valued by all who know him.

He believes deeply in Fianna Fáil, and he respects other views. The Leydens are a nice family.

An hour with him in the family’s Castlecoote Lodge is always enjoyable and educational. Wishing Terry and Mary many happy years.

Decline of big parties – Irish democracy will be different now

Charlie Hopkins ... “good leaders set out not to lead, but to make a difference”.

Tommy Waldron – a famous Athleague hurler in his youth and nowadays a familiar figure around Roscommon town and local farming circles – taught civics (CSPE – civic, social & political education) to junior cert students at Roscommon CBS around the time of the dawn of the new millennium.

Delivering one lesson in an upstairs classroom that overlooks Abbeytown and the Dublin-Westport railway line, he talked about Ireland’s two-and-a-half party political system (FF, FG, Lab). Mr. Waldron explained, that in western democracies, “major” parties gather voter interests and translate those interests into cross-cutting policies that serve the common good.

The recent Irish general election proves that, 20 years after Mr. Waldron’s classroom lesson, Ireland doesn’t have major, ‘big’ political parties anymore.

People in this country are using a kind of meitheal consciousness to confront the unfolding Covid-19 crisis. This collective action feels very reassuring. It is an Irish response to a global problem.

Multiple small political groupings, each representing a small share of the Irish people, means that in future our Dáil may be less collective in its work.

Whatever the future holds, let’s hope that voters and politicians will value consensus and the common good, over sectional interest. Ní neart go cur le chéile – there is no strength without unity.

Creggs people everywhere should be proud of Conor Connelly The sudden death of Conor Connelly has shocked and distressed many people.

I grew up 3km from Creggs village. I am 10 years younger than Conor Connelly. As children growing up on a local farm in the 1990s,

we used to love to go with our father to Jimmy Connelly’s garage on a Saturday.

My father would need to buy shear pins, a grease cartridge, or a drum of engine oil or whatever. We, as children, relished the chance to meet

and chat with the famous footballers, older than us, who worked hard in that garage for their father.

In those years Conor Connelly, with his impish looks and personality, was making national headlines as an exciting footballer for Roscom-

mon and UCD. Conor’s brother Darragh is another great character who was a tremendous footballer also.

The GAA, in our locality back in the 1990s, did not have the resources or facilities that it has

today. Conor Connelly was a source of pride, motivation and inspiration.

The Connelly family and Creggs people everywhere should be proud of him, his achievements and his impact.

17

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Who’s saying what on TWEET STREET… Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan So, at the end of this, we will emerge outdoors, younger, fresher, just like Bobby emerging from the shower in Dallas? If you remember Bobby and Dallas!

– We do remember Bobby and Dallas Michael, and if only, if only…

James O’Brien @mrjamesob I see no reason ever to mention Jeremy Corbyn again. Please remind me of this tweet if I ever falter.

– Not a fan then? (In the UK last weekend, Labour replaced Jeremy with a new leader, Sir Keir Starmer) Philip Nolan @philipnolan1 It’s hard to remember a moment in my life when I’ve been this terrified. So afraid of what tomorrow might bring. So paralysed with fear I’m not sure I want to wake up.

Yep, I’m going into the junk room... Wish me well.

– The popular Irish Dail Mail columnist and prolific tweeter took us hook, line and sinker with this tweet (using a technique not unknown to this writer) Simon Harris TD @SimonHarrisTD At this difficult and challenging time for all in our country, Paddy Joe’s story gives us hope. Thank you Paddy Joe for your positivity and sharing your story.

I know we all wish you so well. Thanks to @rtenews for this video #coronavirus #Covid19 – The Minister for Health joins in the plaudits for Ballinameen man Paddy Joe Lynch, whose recovery from coronavirus was seen as an inspiration to everyone

Philip Quinn @Quinner61 Mick McCarthy leaves the ROI job for the second time, at his own choosing, falling on his contract sword of July 31 to spare any hassle with the FAI or his successor, Stephen Kenny. A manager of integrity to the end.

– One of Mick’s biggest media fans was in quick with this tweet once news broke of McCarthy’s departure…

Maïa Dunphy @MaiaDunphy With hindsight, Brexit was a bit of craic really wasn’t it?

– Well, maybe not a bit of craic, but we see where Irish tv broadcaster Maia’s coming from…

Val @magnumlady It was great watching Johnny Logan on #KeysToMyLife he was like the Irish Patrick Swayze back in the day and seems like a really nice guy – We were watching, and we loved it too.

Johnny Logan? Let’s put it this way… #Gentleman&Eurovisionlegend

Garry Ó Súilleabháin @garrysull I would really love to know what the miserable cranks criticising the Taoiseach for helping out medically one day a week are doing to fight the pandemic themselves.

Other than sitting on their ass at home behind a keyboard spreading misery on Twitter – News that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar may be donning his doctor’s garb again (to help in the Covid-19 response) predictably attracted some cynicism on Twitter. We’re with Garry on this one…and we love his expression ‘Other than sitting on their ass at home behind a keyboard spreading misery on Twitter’. Well said, Garry!

Longford Town FC @LongfordTownFC An incredible journey and story. From Strokestown Road to the Aviva Stadium.

Gave Town fans amazing memories, took us into the Premier Division, an FAI Cup Final and into Europe for the first time.

Huge congrats to Stephen Kenny, the new Republic of Ireland manager! #COYBIG – Our friends in Longford Town FC rightly celebrate the rise of one of their former managers to the position of manager of the Republic of Ireland!

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Brendan Courtney met up with Eurovision legend Johnny Logan in RTE’s programme ‘Keys To My Life’

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL CIVIC AMENITY SITES Please Note EASTER 2020 Arrangements

OPEN  Thursday 9th, Saturday 11th & Tuesday 14th April, 2020 CLOSED  Friday 10th (Good Friday) & Monday 13th April (Bank Holiday) Open 8.00am – 4.00pm ROSCOMMON OPEN THROUGH LUNCH

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 In order to facilitate the carrying out of the 2020 Road Works Scheme, Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice that it will close various roads for periods of three to seven working days on dates between April and October 2020. Alternative routes will be signposted locally. Every effort will be made to accommodate local traffic. Specific locations can be viewed on the Council’s website www.roscommoncoco.ie. Roscommon County Council regrets any inconvenience.

Shane Tiernan Director of Services Roads and Transportation Department Roscommon County Council

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople

Frances puts finishing touches to knicker elastic!

Frances Heaney, proprietor of Frances’ Finishing Touches in Roscommon, has never been one to shy away from a challenge; and in these unprecedented times, the innovative entrepreneur, although having to temporarily close her business due to the restrictions, is coping with curtailment by keeping busy providing a public service to our frontline heroes. < MIRIAM KERINS

What’s that public service, Frances?

Well I’m sitting here in the shop measuring knicker elastic! I have twentyeight bags of knicker elastic with twenty metres in each bag that I’m posting to a woman in Dublin who makes face masks for healthcare workers.

How has Covid-19 af-

fected your business?

I have no business, it’s that simple. However, Roscommon LEADER has been very good in delivering wool and household sheets, etc., to people who are looking for them. It’s a great way for boosting the spirits too during this alien situation.

There’s a lot of goodwill locally and I’m grateful for that. I’m in here for a few hours a day on my own and if anyone wants to get in touch they can

call me on the mobile on 087-6500931. And sure the paper (Roscommon People), is great too, there’s something nice about (getting) the paper because you can always look back on it and read it again, so well done for keeping it going.

How are the kids coping with your home-schooling skills?

Oh the homework is being done but unfortunately, my kids now realise

‘We cannot be complacent’ Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice is the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. We asked our first citizen a few quick-fire questions on how we’re coping with Covid-19 < PAUL HEALY

How do you think the people of Roscommon are doing in terms of being disciplined about the restrictions?

We’re fortunate I suppose in that we’re a fairly rural county. So it’s probably easier to successfully implement social distancing. But from what I can see, people are being very responsible. Go into any town or village in the county during the day or at night and it’s very, very quiet in terms of traffic and footfall.

Shops and other businesses have been admirably proactive in terms of putting measures in place…would you agree?

Yes, I made that point at a Covid-19 meeting, speaking both as a shopkeeper and a councillor. I mean, if a number of shopkeepers were to become ill, it would affect supply of food. But businesses

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice is the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council

have been very good in terms of putting in measures to do with protecting staff and customers.

How has the 24-hour community response helpline been going?

Well you have different groups in the community taking up the mantle from early on in this crisis, which is great.

That helpline (being managed by the Council and Gardai) is a big help, and it means the response can be co-ordinated.

So people are ringing in and then being directed to community groups and so on.

Not everyone is Internet-friendly, a lot of people still want to phone for assistance.

Have you noticed a big change arising from the fact that we are all spending more time at home/not moving from place to place?

People’s lives have changed over this period. For people who were particularly busy, this is a new experience…spending extra time at home. They are experiencing more family time. For all of us, there is the realisation that time with loved ones is what’s important.

Are you confident that we will get over this in the coming weeks?

Well, we can’t be sure how long this will go on for. I’m very encouraged by the low number of cases in Roscommon, but we cannot be remotely complacent.

Even if the numbers are small, you could become one of those numbers. Some people who have contracted Covid-19 have been very lucky, and some have been very unlucky.

I am very hopeful that sooner rather than later we might see restrictions lifted in some counties that have low numbers.

In that scenario a number of businesses might be able to reopen, with ongoing restrictions on them in terms of social distancing, etc. But we cannot lift restrictions too soon and above all we have to adhere to the guidelines. Hopefully we will see light at the end of the tunnel soon.

how thick I am! (Laughs).

Although we are doing a lot of baking and they enjoy that. We’re making the most of it all and sometimes, when you’re caught up in this whole thing, you need to realise and remind yourself that we don’t have the virus and we’re safe and well and lucky to be living in the countryside with this lovely weather.

What do you miss most during these restrictions?

I miss the family’s comings and goings; I miss going swimming with the kids.

What’s the first thing you’ll do when the restrictions are lifted?

Go swimming! The kids want to go to the cinema.

Frances Connaughton pictured in her shop, Frances’ Finishing Touches.

COVID-19

How are

The view from frontline Elisa Bridgeman is Clinical Nurse Manager 2, Urgent Care Centre, Roscommon University Hospital.

Can you describe what you do?

I am a Clinical Nurse Manager in the Urgent Care Centre in Roscommon University Hospital where we deal with a wide range of injuries for adults and children over five in the Injury Unit. I also work in the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) where patients who are referred in from their GP are seen and treated by the Consultant/Registrar on call and in the Medical Day Service where patients who need regular infusions/transfusions or bloods for their medical conditions are treated.

How is Covid-19 impacting on you at work?

All guidelines and recom-

mendations are being followed from a national level and all policies are in place. We have daily meetings and updates to ensure all staff are up to date with this evolving Covid-19 pandemic.

Social distancing is being maintained between staff.

We use the appropriate PPE when dealing with patients with Covid-19 or suspected cases. We ensure that high hand hygiene standards are maintained. A reduced number of patients are currently allowed into the Injury Unit at one time to adhere to social and physical distancing. We are asking all patients to telephone the Injury Unit before presenting so that we can check for any symptoms of Covid-19, recent travel history and contact history with suspected cases. That way, when the patient arrives, we are prepared in advance and can take the necessary infection control precautions, if required.

This is an unprecedented situation. How is your morale and that of your colleagues?

Since the arrival of Covid-19 staff have been understanding and supportive of the measures as a lot of staff have changed their roles (short-term) and have been deployed to other areas in order to prepare for the worst in the hope that it will never occur.

Naturally as with every person in the nation we are all worried about the ‘fear of the unknown’.

Presently there is PPE in the country which is very reassuring as this means that all precautions are taken when dealing with suspected or positive Covid-19 patients. This also helps reduce staff levels of anxiety, and the worry of carrying infection into our homes. Prior to leaving work we have the opportunity to shower and change clothes.

Has the public been cooperative?

Yes the people of Roscommon and surrounding counties have adhered to government regulations regarding Covid-19. They have been extremely supportive to health care workers in a time where we all share the same fears. I would like to commend everyone for their support. We have received many calls from the public to see if they are suitable to be seen in the Unit prior to just arriving. This makes our job much easier in ensuring patient safety. I cannot stress enough the importance of washing hands – it is of the upmost importance for everyone to help contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

From a personal perspective, what impact are Covid-19 restrictions having on you?

Personally both my husband and I are both

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

19

NewsPeople

‘We seem to be doing exceptionally well’ Brendan Egan is Manager of Castlerea Mart and a well-known GAA/ community activist.

When I rang Brendan on Wednesday, he was just in from cutting the grass… and we asked him these quick-fire questions! < PAUL HEALY

Brendan, I know Castlerea Mart is closed, but is there some limited activity for essential services?

We are taking a few enquiries from farmers and trying to

arrange some sales. But we are closed. On Easter Thursday every year we would normally have a very big Easter Sale, this is the first Easter that won’t happen.

Do you feel that people in this area are observing all the HSE/Government guidelines?

Absolutely. As far as I can see people throughout Castlerea, Ballymoe and countywide are being very disciplined. You’d really notice it. There are very few people out and about.

How do you think, as a nation, we are managing this crisis?

We’re managing a very difficult situation well, I think. In particular, we seem to be doing exceptionally well in County Roscommon.

Since the mart closed, you’ll have been spending your days at home. Many people are adjusting to spending their days cocooned in their homes.

What are your thoughts?

Oh the whole landscape (of life) has changed completely.

We have two children who are due to sit important exams this year (Junior and Leaving Certificates). They’re at home all day every day, so it’s a huge change for everybody every-

where. And there’s no football, no sport…but I find that people are being very neighbourly and are really looking out for others. There’s great volunteerism in evidence. It’s great to see it.

Are you hopeful that the restrictions will end soon?

We just have to await direction from the Government. I think it would be optimistic to suggest that the lockdown will be over in two or three weeks. We have to do what we have to do. As they say, ‘no pain, no gain’.

What’s important is that people stay healthy. I advise everybody to follow the guidelines and I wish everybody well.

This Easter weekend, due to the coronavirus ‘lockdown’ restrictions, the people of Ireland are stuck at home. Therefore, if readers were wondering how fellow Rossies are coping with the curtailment of movements, and what they’re doing to survive, not only the virus itself, but ahem, how they’re sustaining themselves while being cooped up with each other, we caught up with a few of our fellow citizens. Here’s what they had to say…

we coping? at Roscommon Hospital at work, therefore life is much busier with four children at home. Home schooling is an extra challenge and on my days off it consists of making sure homework is done and ensuring adequate food supplies are in and preparing dinners where possible.

Extra preparations are also required going and coming home from work with regard to uniforms and showering prior to leaving the hospital grounds. My own parents live in Limerick and I haven’t seen them so it’s important I communicate with them via phone and other means of communication, e.g. video calls.

Has spending more time at home given you an opportunity to indulge in more hobbies, etc?

Life has never been busier for those who are working parents. However, with sport and other activities cancelled it can

cause increased boredom for children but it is less stressful not to be on the road every evening as a parent.

What do you miss most about life before the current Covid-19 pandemic?

Home life is a routine that I miss and there is the extra responsibility of home schooling. Covid-19 is putting so much pressure on families who are not in the position to see some of their family members

and especially if they are over the age of 70 and cocooning. Due to home circumstances changing due to Covid-19 our age profile has changed for the injury unit, the majority of our service users

before were injuries from children. Since Covid-19 we are treating more adults sustaining injuries from the garden and house repairs (jobs that were put on the long finger prior to Covid-19).

On the frontline in a health crisis: Pictured in Roscommon University Hospital Urgent Care Centre were Elisa Bridgeman, Clinical Nurse Manager 2, Urgent Care Centre; Dr. Sri Gowda, Principal Medical Officer, Medical Assessment Unit; Fiona Hamrock, Staff Nurse, Urgent Care Centre and Marie Lalwani, Staff Nurse, Urgent Care Centre, Roscommon University Hospital. Photograph courtesy of Roscommon University Hospital

Brendan Egan is Manager of Castlerea Mart

Missing cuddles, but Claire is busy helping cocooning constituents < MIRIAM KERINS

Newly-elected Galway/ Roscommon TD Claire Kerrane (SF) who’s busier than ever, tells us her selfisolating strategies at her home Tibohine are working out quite well.

How are you all coping?

I’m at home with mam and dad and my brothers. My sister had a baby five months ago and we miss him. He’s called Tadgh Earley and it’s difficult not being able to hold and cuddle him, but this is a life and death situation, and I count myself lucky because we are all safe and well.

How are you occupying your time during ‘lockdown’?

I’ve been going out doing a bit of shopping for the family and for my neighbours who are cocooning. It’s hard for them not being able to get about and I’m happy to help them out. I’m not on the frontline, and all we are being asked to do is stay at home (in an effort) to help our frontline healthcare workers to do their jobs.

I’m also dealing with queries from constituents who need help filling in Covid-19 payment applications and it’s great that people are able to reach out and ask for help; nobody should be stuck. I’m dealing with queries from people who’ve had their Covid-19 tests, but who haven’t yet received their results; so I’m keeping busy because I’m working on my own without any support staff; and I’m delighted to be able to help.

How are you relaxing?

Oh I’m watching Money Heist on Netflix, and I’m going for my walks twice a day…keeping within the 2km restrictions. I’m reading Graham Norton’s book, it’s called ‘A Keeper’ – and as we have a farm with cows calving and ewes lambing, we’re kept busy. My dad has never had so much help; and he’s delighted, especially as he’s been given the ok to cut turf, so he appreciates the extra assistance!

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

NewsPeople LEADER update Paul Clabby of Roscommon LEADER Partnership provides the following update on the agency’s ongoing response to Covid-19, and also on the ‘Roscommon Responds’ initiative, launched in conjunction with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the Roscommon People (see page 6). “Roscommon LEADER Partnership staff have been dealing with additional queries for our wide range of services from people, agencies and organisations across the county.

“We have also received numerous referrals through the new centralised community response call system that is being led by Roscommon County Council and we are pleased to report that these referrals receive our assistance within 24 hours.

“In terms of the Roscommon Responds Initiative that we are working on in conjunction with the Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People, we have seen a steady increase in the demand for this assistance and it’s great to see additional businesses availing of the initiative in the town”.

Naughten’s advice on saving on bills

Denis Naughten has urged families to use some of the time in Covid-19 isolation to shop around for the best offers available for electricity, phone, broadband, TV and gas – which he says could save them up to €1,000 per year. “Shopping around and switching provider could not be easier with approved comparison sites such as switcher.ie or bonkers.ie. Not only will they identify the best deal for your family but will do the switching for you as well,” stated Denis Naughten.

“There are significant savings to be made. For example, in switching supplier a customer could save, consuming an average amount of energy, up to €148 on an annual electricity bill and up to €118 on an annual gas bill, while a customer of a single dual-fuel supplier could save up to €300.

“In the case of mobile phone packages customers could say up to €300 if they have not shopped around in a while. In the case of mobile offers people should check the mobile coverage in their area before switching.

This can be checked at comreg.ie/coveragemap”.

Fitzmaurice welcomes clarity

Clarity has been secured in relation to the cutting of domestic turf during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Liaising with the Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) and the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association (TCCA), the Roscommon-Galway TD was involved in the submission of a proposal in relation to the cutting of domestic turf in the coming weeks.

Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “Over the last number of days a detailed submission regarding the turf cutting situation was put together, addressing the many challenges presented by the Covid-19 outbreak.

“We would like to thank the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) who took responsibility for liaising with us on this matter and resolving an issue where there was some ambiguity of late.

“The detailed submission outlined how the cutting of domestic turf could proceed in a safe and effective manner, without any risk to public health.

Moving forward, we would ask that all contractors adhere to the criteria that has been agreed upon”.

Farmers advised: ‘Controlled burning’ is not permitted

Roscommon County Council has issued a statement confirming that controlled burning by the farming community is not permitted at this time.

The Council said: “In light of the ongoing Covid-19 emergency, as a measure to reduce non-emergency calls to Fire Service calls centres, controlled burning by the agricultural community (i.e. fires on grasslands, forests and peatlands, etc.) is not permitted in County Roscommon until further notice.

“All notices informing Roscommon County Council of controlled burning will not be accepted for the duration of this emergency and persons must refrain from all forms of controlled burning at this time.

“If a 999/112 call is received relating to any controlled burning event on property, the Fire Brigade will be mobilised to attend and extinguish the fire. All the costs associated with the attendance of the Fire & Rescue Service will be invoiced to the property owner. Thank you in advance for your anticipated co-operation with this measure”.

For further advice on this matter please contact 090 6637100 or email environment@roscommoncoco.ie.

Roscommon overlooked for job creation – Kerrane

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has said that Roscommon continues to be overlooked when it comes to job creation – criticising the continued lack of IDA visits to the county in 2019.

Deputy Kerrane said: “Last year, over the entire twelve months there were just three IDA visits to County Roscommon, out of a total of 700. This accounts for just 0.4% of national IDA visits.

“County Roscommon received the second lowest number of visits by the IDA in joint second last place with Longford, Leitrim and Mayo.

“These figures are simply not good enough. The IDA are not doing their job when it comes to creating employment in the West of Ireland. If we want to see our towns and villages in counties like Roscommon sustained then we need a focus on infrastructure to compete with other parts of the country where broadband, for one is available.

“The Covid-19 crisis has taken priority for us all and will for the foreseeable future, but after this we need to see a focus on sustaining our rural towns and villages, ensuring that families can live and work here – and that means proper engagement from State bodies such as the IDA”.

Students at the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon pictured making face-shields for those who are working on the frontline during this Covid-19 pandemic.

Roscommon Convent responds to Covid-19 PPE crisis < MIRIAM KERINS

On a sunny Easter weekend, as most Rossies prepare to enjoy the good weather, (while respectfully adhering to social distancing guidelines), technology teacher and Kilteevan native Garrett Spellman is figuring out how to help others.

Armed with his ‘tech tools,’ this self-effacing, yet hugely inspirational gentleman, who teaches students at the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon, is selflessly using his skills to help meet a shortage of faceshields for those who are working on the frontline during this Covid-19 pandemic.

Securing the support and backing of his School Principal Miriam Hunt, and fellow teachers and colleagues, Garrett is working around the clock to avail of the convent’s recently renovated technology room, (rebranded as a state-of-the-art-design lab), to manufacture and distribute vital life-saving personal protective equipment (PPE).

“We only opened the lab in February and a lot of work has gone into it. It’s a huge initiative for this all-girls’ school to have entered into, and they’ve created a wonderful environment that is both welcoming and educational for the students,” says Garrett.

Taking inspiration from fellow technology teachers, who issued a call-to-action to those in possession of a 3D printer, and an email thread in which he was involved, Garrett set his plan in motion.

“A fellow technology teacher was looking for other teachers to contribute filament for a 3D printer or for those with 3D printers, and I decided to get involved,” says Garrett.

However, there was a drawback, as Garrett explains: “The drawings they sent me took three hours to make a face shield”. Seeing this as an obstacle, and using his unique skills and creative mind, following a lot of research Garrett discovered a way to produce this vital equipment in half the time.

But this resilient Rossie didn’t stop there.

“I have a laser cutter which is really fast for cutting material and I found a University in Atlanta (USA), who were doing the same thing and they gave me the drawings and now I can cut out these masks in one and a half to two minutes. My friend has a laser cutter, I got in touch, we made a prototype and have manufactured about 500 already.

It’s now become like a domino effect and we’ve sent it out to a load of people. My mate in Tipperary has created 1,300 face shields and we can produce about a hundred a day”.

Although he has spearheaded this whole project, Garrett is extremely humble and wants to point out he is simply trying to help those working at the coalface. Modestly shunning praise and refusing to take

Garrett Spellman and the interior of the state-of-the-art-design lab at Convent of Mercy in Roscommon town.

all credit due to him, Garrett wants to thank everyone who has helped him in his quest.

“I want to thank Fergal Cormican, Cormican Office Supplies, who has donated front visors, and Fintan Kilroe of XLNT Signs for helping us out. It has been a wonderful community effort. I want to thank Deputy Principal Sinead Tiernan who has helped me source visors and all the school staff who got in touch offering help and donations. The response has been phenomenal,” says a very grateful Garrett.

Roscommon Hospital, along with hospitals and frontline personnel across Ireland, are currently overwhelmed by not just the spread of coronavirus, but by the severity of it, and Garrett’s public-spirited initiative is much appreciated by this communityfocused newspaper and its readers. Indeed, these crucial pieces of equipment, made right here in a local Roscommon school,

have also been deployed to the UK! “We have the facilities and when Miriam (Hunt) said by all means use the school to make them, we ran with it,” said Garrett.

So, this weekend, as many of us fear the world is going to pieces, and the gloom of ‘lockdown’ hangs over us, the generosity of one man, supported by his Convent of Mercy friends and colleagues – along with the local community – stands out. Garrett Spellman’s creativity, generosity and innovation will not just serve to help keep our frontline heroes safe; it will also help to kick this virus where it hurts! We salute you Mr. Spellman!

If readers wish to donate, or can offer help to Garrett’s cause, please email him at gspellman@rosconvent.ie or at the school’s design lab Instagram account on designlab_ros, or on Twitter on @desingmakeit.

Students at the Convent of Mercy in Roscommon pictured with their teacher Garrett Spellman making face-shields for those who are working on the frontline during the pandemic.

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

21

NewsPeople

Anne Tiernan Paddy’s granddaughter, ut her abo ok ebo Fac on posted Covid-19, grandfather’s recovery from ry which sto s new d goo a in ng resulti needed. was just what the nation

Paddy Joe Lynch pictured at home in Ballinameen with his daughter Nicola. Picture: Mick McCormack.

‘I feared the worst for myself, but thanks be to God I got through it’ A week on from emerging as a symbol of hope in the fight against Covid-19, Paddy Joe Lynch and family thank people for amazing support < PAUL HEALY

When Paddy Joe Lynch went for a walk around his sun-kissed garden with his daughter Nicola earlier this week, it must have felt like he had received a new lease of life. Which he has.

Paddy made national and international headlines last week, much to his bemusement, you suspect. “I’m not one for the limelight” Paddy told the Roscommon People on Wednesday.

But when Paddy’s granddaughter Anne Tiernan – bursting with pride – put a post on Facebook about her grandfather’s recovery from Covid-19, the resulting good news story was just what the nation needed.

Paddy is an 82-year-old native of Ballinameen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. A father of seven, his wife, Mary, passed away in 2015.

By now, most people will have heard his inspirational story. Paddy, who has underlying health issues, was hospitalised on March 21st. He tested positive for Covid-19. Given his age, and those underlying health factors, it was a deeply worrying situation for Paddy and his family.

“To be honest, I feared the worst” Paddy says.

But Paddy rallied, and, helped by the “wonderful” staff of Sligo University Hospital, he was discharged after ten days…emerging as a great symbol of hope at this time of uncertainty. Paddy was billed as the 82-year-old who ‘beat’ Covid-19.

Lots of people of his age and older will beat it too (if they contract it), but Paddy’s story was particularly timely, heartwarming and undoubtedly inspirational.

I spoke with Paddy and his daughter Nicola on Wednesday.

Paddy is getting stronger day after day, his appetite returning. “I’m in good form” he reported, “I’m beginning to eat a bit more every day!”

A keen gardener, he is now taking a daily walk in his garden and around his house, at Doneen, Ballinameen.

Nicola was upbeat about her dad’s recovery, and overwhelmed by the response the family has received.

“People have been wonderful. We have been inundated with cards, many of them from people we don’t know at all. We are getting loads of them!

“Yesterday, we went to buy a bed for Dad, to help with his breathing, as he has COPD. We were chatting to the man who was selling it, and Dad’s story came up…the man insisted on not charging for the bed, he wanted to donate it as a present!”

Paddy Joe Lynch takes a walk with his daughter Nicola. Picture: Mick McCormack.

The media interest has been relentless.

Paddy has taken it in his stride, “as long as there’s someone with me…to talk!”

Nicola says her father’s story was featured in newspapers in the UK, Poland and Switzerland, and in God knows

how many other countries. Again, she emphasises how good people have been, thanking their neighbours for all their support.

Before I leave Nicola and Paddy to continue the return to normality and

maybe to another walk in the Wednesday afternoon sunshine, I have another word with the man himself.

It’s clear that, despite those health issues, he’s a very active man for his age.

Still driving, still doing a bit of work as a caretaker at two local schools (Ballinameen and Kingsland).

Most of his working life was spent in the building trade. In retirement, he’s indulged his many hobbies, including reading, writing and gardening. (He writes poetry when he gets a chance, and will read “any type of a book” – most recently he read Mick Clifford’s book on Sergeant Maurice McCabe).

I ask Paddy has he ever seen anything like this Covid-19 pandemic, and its worldwide impact.

“Never. Never in my life did I expect to see anything like it either. When I was in that hospital bed, I feared the worst for myself, but thanks be to God I got through it. Thank God I survived it.

And we can get through it…as long as people do what’s asked of them. So my advice to people is to do what they’re told. And not to watch too much of the TV coverage!”

Before we finish our chat, Paddy wanted to thank the staff in Sligo General Hospital. “They were fantastic”.

The sun is shining again for Paddy.

He’s taking it one step at a time. And he’s in good hands. He’s smiling, and wishing everyone the very best at this difficult time.

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

22

PropertyPeople

FINAL OFFERS NOW INVITED MULLYMUX, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

QUALITY FAMILY HOMES IN ROSCOMMON TOWN REQUIRED.

ROXBOROUGH, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Attractive parcel of roadside land, recently all reseeded and containing 14.80 hectares/36.5 acres. Direct road frontage onto the N61, the said lands are situated in the renowned farming district of Mullymux, within close proximity to Roscommon Town.

Seamus now invites immediate viewing and final offers

ROSCOMMON TOWN

PROPERTY REQUIREMENT

TO LET

c.29 acres of agricultural land now available to lease contained within folio RN36493.

FARMLAND REQUIRED IN ALL AREAS

Situated within close proximity to Roscommon Town.

Reply in confidence to auctioneer REA Seamus Carthy 086 8035538

Enquiries now invited.

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

REA Seamus Carthy’s upcoming online auction REA Seamus Carthy are offering in their upcoming auction, a traditional two-storey stone building, set on the banks of the Boyle River.

Riverwalk, Boyle was formerly a retail unit and the said property offers enormous potential, given its attractive town centre location. The subject property will be sold by online auction on Friday, 10th of April.

Offering excellent value for money with a guide price of €25,000. Viewing come highly recommended.

Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090-6630001 or info@reacarthy.ie for more information on how to register for the auction.

No. 30, The Maples, Strokestown

Impressive residence with REA Seamus Carthy REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present for sale a most impressive four-bedroomed detached two-storey family home, situated within the highly sought after residential estate of The Maples, Strokestown. No. 30, The Maples is presented in excellent condition both internally and externally. The subject property is set within walking

distance to all amenities in Strokestown including supermarkets, schools, etc.

This is a quality family home in an exceptional and sought after residential estate. Guide price: €199,000. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090-6630001 or info@reacarthy.ie for more information.

REA Carthy’s Sale of the Week REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to confirm they have successfully negotiated the sale of 4, Springfield, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The subject property is a three-bedroomed home situated within close proximity to all amenities in Castlerea Town.

Due to demand we are seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of selling, contact our office for a free sales appraisal on 090-6630001, 086-8035538 or info@reacarthy.ie.

Exceptional four-bedroomed residence in Roscommon Town For sale due to cancellation is this very spacious four-bedroomed detached residence. The property is located on the doorstep of all of Roscommon Town’s amenities in our ever-growing county town and is on the books of Connaughton Auctioneers. In excellent condition, the residence offers spacious living accommodation with large concreted yard to the rear and detached garage.

The entrance hall is bright, modern and inviting with two large reception rooms on either side.

Reception one is being used as sitting/living room and has wooden flooring and a solid fuel stove inserted into feature fireplace.

Across the hallway is reception two which also has wooden flooring, is similar in size and is currently being used as a playroom but can be a second living room, office or indeed the fifth bedroom on the ground floor.

The large kitchen/dining room is located to the rear of the house and affords plenty of light. Fullyfitted good quality kitchen units, integrated cooker and lighting, double doors to rear to mention just some of the features.

On the first floor of this spacious two-storey resi-

PSRA Licence No: 003201

CORONAVIRUS NOTICE For the safety of our valued Customers and Staff, our offices will be closed for the duration of this lockdown.

However, we can be contacted by email on info@oates.ie and by phone on

086 2573358 - Aengus dence are four double bedrooms all with wooden flooring. Master bedroom has a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with shower and built-in wardrobes.

Main bathroom is located at the top of the stairs.

It’s fully tiled floor to ceiling, has a large jacuzzi bath and separate shower with enclosure.

This residence offers all that may be required for modern living in today’s market.

Contact the office for further information and to arrange an appointment on 090-6663700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

and

087 4196055 - Brendan Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500 FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY PARTNERS

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

LEADING THE WAY IN PROPERTY SALES, LETTINGS AND VALUATIONS… • Commercial properties.

• Residential properties.

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086 2551380

OUR RESULTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

WHILE OUR OFFICE IS CLOSED, WE ARE STILL AVAILABLE TO CONTACT Please call John on 086 2551380 or email: jearley@propertypartners.ie – Keep safe and well from the team at Property Partners Earley .

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Fax: (090) 6625405

John Earley’s Land Sale of the Week at Lanesboro John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of prime agricultural lands containing approx. 18.5 acres located at Lehery, Lanesboro, Co. Longford for a very satisfactory price.

John says: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas.

“Due to demand, we are now seeking lands in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Northgate Street, Athlone

Diffley’s Sale of the Week

Two-bedroomed apartment in Athlone

David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of quality threebedroomed bungalow residence located at ‘Pondarossa’, Creevy Road, Roscommon town for a very satisfactory price.

David described the property as “a primely located threebedroomed bungalow residence of approx. 1,200 sq.ft, which stands on a beautifully mature site area of approx.

1.08 acres”.

David further commented: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”.

For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please

This large two-bedroomed apartment has arrived on the market for sale in the much sought after area of Athlone Town centre, adjacent to the Radisson Hotel on Northgate Street. It’s on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers.

This property comes to the market with the addition of an underground private car parking space.

Located on the third floor with lift access, this apartment consists of reception hallway, kitchen/living/dining room, two double bedrooms and main bathroom.

Within walking distance of all amenities on offer in Athlone, the property is in excellent condition and is ideal to either the

Lehery, Lanesboro, Co. Longford

contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

investment market or indeed first-time buyer market. Management company in place with reasonable yearly fees.

Features include wooden flooring throughout, electric storage heating, fully-fitted wardrobes, fully-fitted kitchen including dishwasher and washing machine, intercom and fully-tiled bathroom.

Recently redecorated, No. 65, Silver Quay is a must for viewing.

Viewing available on weekends, evenings and bank holidays by prior arrangement after lockdown.

For further details contact the office on 09066 63700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

PropertyPeople

SportPeople

Horses for Courses General News The English 1,000 and 2,000 Guineas set for the 2 and 3 of May and the Derby and Oaks set for 5th and 6th of June have been postponed. Jockey Club Racecourses, which owns both Newmarket, which hosts the 1000 and 2000 Guineas, and Epsom, the home of Derby and Oaks, has announced the fixtures will not take place on their scheduled dates in May and June and will not be rescheduled until racing resumes. Also, it was announced this week that the Royal Ascot meeting in June will be held behind closed doors, if it goes ahead.

Following on the loss of the Aintree Grand National the Irish Grand National will not take place on its traditional day next Monday, Easter Monday. However, for racing afficionados, on Saturday evening at 7.15pm TG4 is showing The Irish Grand National-Chasing A Dream. The Bankos Tales Production, first broadcast in 2017 on RTE, is a history of the great race on what would have been its 150th anniversary.

Hopefully the IRHB can fit into the schedule, as planned, later in the year.

Saturday’s Virtual Grand National, the 4th such race, was won by 18/1 chance Potter’s Corner who won the Welsh National at Chepstow last year. Walk In The Mill was second and Any Second Now third, Tiger Roll finished 4th. The race raised over £2.6 million for the NHS in the UK and Red Cross in Ireland with all the major online bookmakers pledging their profits from the race to the charities. The race which was run at 5.15pm, the same time of the race, and was broadcast on ITV. nd

rd

The champion conditional jockey is Darragh O’Keeffe, amateur jockey Patrick Mullins, who hopes to keep riding until 40 like his father, and leading lady rider is Lisa O’Neill.

Cross channel the 34-year-old Co Armagh born Brian Hughes was confirmed on Monday the new champion jockey for the first time winning by 19 from Richard Johnson champion for the last 4 seasons. In the other championship categories, Nicky Henderson was named champion trainer, Jonjo O’Neill jnr was crowned champion conditional and JP McManus was named champion owner.

The Irish point to point awards were also announced this week with Barry O’Neill champion rider on 46 winners 22 clear of Jamie Codd. Leading handler was Wexford’s Colin Bowe.

In the lady’s championship there was a three-way tie between Liz Lalor, Moira McElligott and Cheltenham heroine Maxine O’Sullivan on 3 winners apiece, The leading horse was the David Christie trained Eddie’s Miracle with 4 open wins.

Season 2019/20 Award Winners

Following the early end of the national hunt season Willie Mullins has won the leading trainers’ award for the 14th time, his No 1 jockey Paul Townend is champion jockey for the 3rd time and Gigginstown House Stud is once again the champion owner.

by Tom Red

Potters Corner jumping during the virtual race last Saturday

Covid update from Roscommon Golf Club Roscommon Golf Club is encouraging its members to make contact with other members who may be living alone during what it described as “these challenging and unprecedented times”.

In a statement, the club wished all members and their families well.

“It is so important that we stay at home, much and all as we would like to play a few holes! We would like to send our solidarity and support to all our members and staff who are working at the frontline of the Covid-19 emergency and to those who are working to provide essential services and indeed any member who has been adversely affected by the pandemic.

“We are aware that we do have a considerable number of members in the ‘cocooning’ at-risk group – with some living alone – and we hope you are doing okay”.

The Golf Club statement advised members who are living in Co. Roscommon that the County Council are operating a 24hour Community Support Response Helpline at 1800 200 727 (from 8 am to 8 pm, with An Garda Síochána operating it from 8 pm to 8 am). Services provided include collecting groceries, collecting prescriptions or other errands, or just the offer of a helping hand or a friendly voice at the other end of the phone.

“We would also like to encourage our members to maybe consider making contact with some members who you know may be living alone if you haven’t done so already and if any member would like to get in touch for assistance please email roscommongolfclub@gmail.com and we will endeavour to help”.

The club extended sympathy on behalf of all members to the family of the late Billy Connaughton.

“Billy was a very popular member of our community, with his big smile and welcome for everyone. He will be greatly missed.

To the Connaughton family, please be assured of our prayers and support at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace”.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

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Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Grace O’Reilly B.Sc. Psych., B.Comm., H.Dip. in Ed., MBPS & PSI Registered Occupational Psychometrician Assistance with: • Interview Preparation • CAO & UCAS Course Application • Subject & Course Choice • Study Skills / Exam Preparation

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

Email: grace@finbaroreilly.ie Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly

Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Mark Kilgallon B.Sc Podiatry (Hons) M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

EVERY FRIDAY St. Joseph’s Resource Centre, Boyle For appointment

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone:

087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

CHIROPODIST FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain.

Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

CHIROPODIST

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

COUNSELLING COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis.

Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?

Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

• Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided.

• Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Dept. of Agriculture regulations.

From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal.

Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance.

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

Reg No: EL000083

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

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

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction General Building l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Paul McStay

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver.

GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

l

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424

FARMING

FARRIER < QUALIFIED FARRIER AVAILABLE: 25 years experience, fast and reliable service. Tel: 086 8770711

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs.

Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

l

Tel: 087 2172281

Des Kelly Fencing Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Lic. Ac.

Galway Road, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626023

< FOR SALE: Top quality round bales of silage. Curraghaboy area. Tel: 086 3488373. < FOR SALE: Falabella miniature horse, almost a year old. Brown/gold in colour. Contact: 090 6624821. < HAY AND SILAGE for sale. 5 miles east of Roscommon town. Tel: 087 2320483. < for sale: 13 bales of silage. Strokestown area. Tel. 086 0736387.

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured

Phone:

087 2721193 GARDENING GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

087 2860428

ACUPUNCTURE Michael Lennon

< A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715 < FOR SALE: Round bales of well saved hay for sale in Roscommon town. Ring Padraig on 087 2965494

Phone John on

CHIROPODIST Traditional Chinese Medicine

FARMING

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people everyweek advertise with us! the most read newspaper in county Roscommon!

The local paper!

26

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

General Maintenance l Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on l

087 6558597 GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798 • Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

WALTER BEGLEY

Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873 < GARDENING SERVICE: Overgrown shrubs and hedges, cut back and mulched. Contact 086 2437376

HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 FOR ALL YOUR PAINTING & DECORATING NEEDS Internal & External Powerwashing, window, gutters cleaning etc. And all about the home and garden maintainance QUALITY PROMPT WORK GUARANTEED.

Contact Seamus Donoghue

086 8368031 PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank.

We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property.

If not no fees are payable.

Tel: 086 8212732

< TO LET: 2-bed apartment and also a 3-bed apartment.

Fully furnished. private parking, brand new, first letting. Roscommon town.

Tel. 086 8538519

PERSON WANTED < CLEANER REQUIRED: Ballymoe town. Good quality cleaning and hoovering expected. Must be reliable and honest. Tel: 089 2158395.

PEAT BEDDING

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Can we help you?

Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902

Tom Kilduff Cabs Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503 Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

PLOTS OF TURF

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

KELLY’S EYE PHONE:

087 2727888

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

Selection of marquees available for any occasion; • Parties • Weddings • Communions/Confirmations • Corporate/Charity Events • Agricultural Shows • Special Occasions • Funerals We also have a selection of tables & chairs, bar facilities and stages.

For any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tel: 087 2829226 Email:

manormarquees@ gmail.com

USEFUL SERVICES

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

< ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe Electric Registered.

Domestic and Industrial, All work considered - No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

Taxi and Minibus hire.

Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

Now taking bookings for 2020

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

(All areas)

Padraig Healy

MARQUEE HIRE Manor Marquee Hire

JOHN BEATTIE

086 2721812

Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free.

• 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 < FOR SALE: Large lorryloads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders for this year’s turf taken now. Tel: 086 7236301

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed?

If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752 < SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring.

All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329

USEFUL SERVICES

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

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

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 96 31880 087 9100477

PLANNINGS

Morris Lohan

Consulting Engineers Castle Street, Roscommon Phone: 090 66 27950 • HOUSE/EXTENSION DESIGN • PLANNING APPLICATIONS • ASSIGNED DESIGN & CERTIFIER ‘New Building Regs’ • BER RATINGS ‘Domestic & Commercial’ • STRUCTURAL & CONDITION SURVEYS • FIRE DESIGN CERTIFICATES

www.morrislohan.ie

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

REMOTE Secretarial Services HR Selection and Recruitment, Policy and Procedure drafting and Commercial Debt Collection.

Day and hourly rates available.

Virtual PA Ltd Sue McMillan

087 7957190 www.virtualpa.ie

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural

Every office needs an angel at some time

086 3482387

WINDOW CLEANING

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

< WINDOW CLEANING: Competitive rates. All areas covered. Also gutters/ fascias. Contact John: 087 2291931

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, FERN Architectural Studio, intend to apply for permission on behalf of Maureen Devaney and Shane O Connor, for development at this site, Ardkeenagh Townland , Tulsk , Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a storey and a half extension to the side of an existing dwelling including kitchen, dining and living areas and a central entrance hall including the relocated front door. Demolition of front porch and flat roof rear extension. Also, minor amendments to the existing house layout and elevational amendments to front and rear, relocation of existing site boundaries and ancillary site works.

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

Signed: Enda Fallon, FERN Architectural Studio, Roscommon. Tel. 089 4439458; info@fern.ie; www.fern.ie

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brendan Farrell, intend to apply for Permission for (a) revised house plans from that previously granted under planning ref: PD/18/233 (b) amend planning condition no.2 under planning ref: PD/18/233, along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works.

At: Corraun Td, Whitehall, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the 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: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

W S fo o a d A T T w c a th d k li e

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Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

uPVC Window and Door Locksmith We are the only Licensed Window and Door Locksmith in Roscommon

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Block 12, Galway H91 P5k5 Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

Window And Door repairs • Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

DRILLING SERVICE

Chasing / Core Drilling Service Domestic & Commercial Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

Call John 087 610 8499

S tephen H oare

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

6621220

LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

CLEANING

l

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder replacement l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Lock replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4

Cleaning Services • Roscommon • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’ KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892 RECYCLING

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site l l

FARMING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231 VETERINARY

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

TRUCKS WANTED

Trucks wanted Daf CF75,CF85 Tractors units. Box body, Curtain sider, Cab & chassie, Tipper 6 & 8 wheelers Daf XF 95 tractor units up to 2005 Volvo FL6 18, any body type, Box body Tipper etc.

Merc 814, Merc SK 2824 and bigger Any old truck considered Mitsubishi Canter 7.5 ton up to 2001 Toyota Hilux , Dyna, Nissan Cabstar up to 2005 BOUGHT FOR EXPORT AND RESALE

Tel. 087 1922154

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

Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper.

Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

PLEASE FOLLOW OUR NEW GUIDELINES WHEN VISITING OUR CLINIC – We are only taking appointments for essential treatment and emergencies.

You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions/flea worm treatments/food.

Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment.

We ask that all payments be made by card only and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food.

When in the YARD all customers must leave at least 2m distance between themselves, other customers and members of staff at all times due to social distancing guidelines.

28

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES CONWAY James and Peggy

CONNAUGHTON Catherine

Racecourse Road, Roscommon (15th and 2nd Anniversaries) In loving memory of our parents James who died on April 15th, 2005, and Peggy who died on April 4th, 2018, late of Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Athleague (12th Anniversary) In loving memory of our mother, Catherine Connaughton who died on 13th April, 2008.

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT QUIGLEY: 087 7799076 PAUL O’CONNOR: 086 6052649

• Headstones • Kerbed Memorials • Grave Site Care • Headstone Cleaning • Monument Levelling • Gravestone Repair

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

(Dromod) In conjunction with Cox’s Funeral Directors (Rooskey) Serving the people of Dromod, Rooskey and surrounding areas for the past 35 years Full range of coffins, caskets etc. in stock, together with our personally owned fleet of funeral vehicles

For further information contact

086-2561023/087-2318176 or 085-8643968

Visit our website www.mcgowanfuneraldirectors.ie Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Those we love must someday pass beyond our present sight Must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light.

But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place more perfect, more divine.

And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright.

Our loved ones live forevermore in God’s eternal light.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your daughters, Maureen and Sinéad; sons, Gerard, Carl, James, Cormac and John; grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will take place at a future date.

MANNION Anne Lus Leana, Roscommon (1st anniversary) Who passed away on the 14th of April 2019

On the first anniversary of Anne’s passing we the family would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss.

We thank all those who called to our home , attended the funeral home , and burial mass , those who travelled long and short distances to be with us and to those that phoned, sent mass cards and messages of sympathy.

A sincere word of thanks to all the staff at Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon especially St. Joseph’s Ward who provided such excellent care for Anne and thank you for your professionalism and care during Anne’s final days. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

Thank you to Fr. Breslin for his prayers at the house and for his beautiful funeral mass and his prayers in the graveyard. To the mass servers, readers, to Bernie Moran, Chloe, Belle and Mikayla for the beautiful music.

We thank David Moran undertakers for his professionalism, the grave diggers and all who helped prepare Anne’s final resting place.

We extend huge thanks to Pete and Maureen Kenny for the fabulous refreshments and to Tierney’s Bar, Ballygar.

A very special thank you to Anne’s friends who visited her regularly. This meant so much to her.

It would be impossible for us to express thanks and appreciation to everyone. Please accept this acknowledgment as a gesture of our profound appreciation and gratitude.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

Due to the current situation Anne’s first anniversary mass will be said in private with a public mass to be said at a later date.

Your life was love and labor, your love for your family true, you did your best for all of us, we will always remember you.

Sadly missed by your loving family.

Memory drifts to scenes long past, Time rolls on, but memories last; Sunshine passes, shadows fall, Love’s remembrance outlasts all.

Greatly missed by your family and your beloved grandchildren, Emily, Abbi and Evan and Vovo in Heaven to Mila and Luca.

Anniversary mass for our mother and father, Brodie Connaughton, on Sunday 24th May, 10.00am at St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague, subject to Covid-19 restrictions.

THOMPSON John The Pines, Ballinasloe and Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) In loving Memory of John, who died 10th April 2019.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss you most of all.

CRAVEN Michael Abbeyville, Roscommon and Knockcroghery (7th Anniversary) Who died on 10th April 2013

We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Sadly missed by his family and friends.

HEVICAN Patrick Joseph Lisnamult, Roscommon (23rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear brother and uncle, Patrick Joseph, who died on 8th April 1997. RIP Our hearts are full of memories, With pride we speak your name, Though life goes on with out you, It will never be the same.

Your memory is very special, Your presences missed so much, You will always be remembered and loved by all off us.

If we follow your example, we will never go wrong.

Remembered and never forgotten by his sister Philomena and all the family.

Sadly Missed and Lovingly Remembered by his wife Yulia, The Thompson, Kelly and Why Families.

McGOWAN Michael John Lack, Whitehall, Roscommon (5th Anniversary) Who died on 23rd of April 2015

Your life was love and labour Your love was your family true You did your best for all of us We will always remember you.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his wife, son and daughters.

KELLY Thomas Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Will those who think of Thomas today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and missed by his wife Kitty and family.

-----------------------

KELLY Thomas (Tom) Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) Your memories are precious Your presence is missed.

You will fondly be remembered By all of us.

Phil, Donald and family.

Mass offered at a later date.

MANNION Pat Joe Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who died on 9th April 2015 (5th Anniversary)

Mass will be celebrated at a later date.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

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

A smile for all A heart of gold The very best this world could hold.

Never selfish, always kind Those are the memories you left behind.

Those who think of Pat Joe today Say a Rosary in his name.

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card.

We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

Always remembered by his brothers, sisters, brotherin-law, sister-in-law, nieces and nephews.

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or call us on090 6634633 or 086 8054227

29

Roscommon People Friday 10 April 2020

Sports PEOPLE

Reeling in the Archives

5 YEARS AGO Gallant St Croan’s fought to end against classy Kerry side AIB All-Ireland IFC Club Final Ardfert (Kerry) 1-14 St Croan’s (Roscommon) 0-9 < SEAMUS DUKE

St Croan’s dreams of All-Ireland glory were dashed by a very impressive Ardfert side in this entertaining and well-contested All-Ireland intermediate club final played in perfect weather conditions in Croke Park on Saturday evening last.

Croan’s were heroic to the final whistle but when they reflect on the game this week they will realise that they could have no complaints and were beaten by a better team on the day.

There was great hope after the opening 10 minutes when St Croan’s more than matched their opponents, but once Shane Smyth was denied what looked like a certain penalty in the 12th minute, the wind seemed to go out of the sails of the Roscommon men and Ardfert marched on to establish a winning position for themselves.

Croan’s did come with a late burst of scoring but the game was over as a contest by the end of the third quarter.

(From 20 February 2015)

St. Croan’s players pictured before the 2015 All-Ireland Intermediate Club Football Championship Final.

Johnny Kiernan scores ‘greatest ever goal in league’ Roscommon & District League Premier Division leaders Ballinasloe Town were beaten 2-1 at home

by Castlerea Celtic. The home side were on top in the first half but failed to score. With fifteen minutes played in the second half Darragh Concannon converted a free-kick to give Ballinasloe Town the advantage.

The lead only lasted for seven minutes before Ronan Curran replied for Castlerea with a left-footed volley. For the remainder of the game Castlerea Celtic were the better side and Shane Heneghan scored their winner following a free-kick.

Ballaghaderreen are the new leaders after a 5-1 win over bottom side Fohenagh. Cloonfad United and Dysart drew 3-3 at Cloonfad United. This game will forever be remembered by the people present for the best-ever goal scored in the Roscommon & District League, if not in the country.

The Dysart player Johnny Kiernan was the player who scored the goal. With his back to goal he flicked the ball over his own head and his marker, before volleying to the Cloonfad net.

(From 20 February 2015)

Mark’s maestros win a Connacht classic Eirgrid Connacht U-21 FC Final: Roscommon 3-14 Galway 3-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

The statistics will show that Roscommon won their 9th Connacht title at this grade after beating Galway in Tuam last Saturday night. Indeed a fourth provincial title at this grade in six years is a tremendous achievement, but long after the scoreline is forgotten the memory of this game will live on for those of us who were lucky enough to be there to see one of the finest exhibitions of Gaelic Football seen at this or any other grade for many years past.

Put simply, this was spellbinding entertainment.

The soothsayers who have been signalling the end of the game of Gaelic Football in recent weeks forgot to tell these two wonderful teams who provided the spectators with a breathtaking spectacle

St. Croan’s reached the All-Ireland Intermediate Club Football Championship Final in 2015. Michael Holland takes a shot at goal. Picture: Andrew Fox

Paul and Cathal Kenny celebrate after the final whistle after Roscommon won the Connacht U-21 Football Championship Final in 2015. Picture: Andrew Fox

of scintillating football, supreme skill, huge will to win and desire, bravery, incredible tension and crackling excitement from the first whistle to the last. When football is played like this there is truly no other game to touch it. What a pity it doesn’t happen often enough.

At the end of it all Roscommon deservedly emerged victorious. But they were tested to the limit by a superb Galway team who came to Tuam to continue their good record against The Rossies at this grade. But at the end of the day Roscommon had the firepower to get them over the line.

Roscommon: Shane Mannion; Niall McInerney, Sean Mullooly, Denis Barron; Conor Hussey, Cathal Kenny, Ronan Daly; Cathal Compton (1-0), Tadhg O’Rourke; Shane Killoran (0-2), Ultan Harney (0-3), Jack Earley (0-1); Diarmuid Murtagh (1-7, 6 frees), Enda Smith, Paul Kenny (1-0). Subs: Evan McGrath for Hussey (25), Kieran Kilcline (0-1) for Killoran (36), Noel Gately for Earley (41), Kevin Finn for Harney (50), Thomas Corcoran for O’Rourke (54), Diarmuid McGann for P Kenny (58).

(From 10 April 2015)

of positives for the team management and fans to take from this display as they prepare for the national league campaign which starts against Cavan in Hyde Park on Sunday next.

Roscommon looked very solid at the back where Michael Kilillea and Ian Kilbride played very well at full-back and centre half-back respectively. Stephen Ormsby and Niall Carty also played very well in defence, as did goalkeeper Geoffrey Claffey (as usual). Mark O’Carroll worked very hard at midfield alongside Michael Finneran.

Up front Roscommon were less than impressive and are struggling to score, given the possession that they are getting in recent games.

Enda Kenny was the pick of the attack and sub Kevin Higgins also did well…

However, it must be remembered that there are a number of players that will be back in contention for the game against Cavan, including Donie Shine, Peter Domican, Cathal Cregg and David O’Gara, while Senan Kilbride and Karol Mannion are still on the injured list.

(From 5 February 2010)

10 YEARS AGO

12 YEARS AGO

‘Old enemy’ win but plenty of positives for Roscommon

The other Enda Kenny outpolls his Roscommon colleagues!

FBD Connacht League: Mayo 1-9 Roscommon 0-8

FBD League: Sligo IT 1-15 Roscommon 0-13

< SEAMUS DUKE

This four-point defeat at Ballinlough ended any lingering hopes that Roscommon had of reaching the FBD league final this year, but there were plenty

< SEAMUS DUKE

John Maughan’s Roscommon team made a losing start to 2008 when they went down by five points to a lively Sligo IT outfit (who are the defending champions) in this opening round FBD

League game played in bitterly cold weather conditions at Ballinode last Sunday.

Despite the defeat there is nothing to be too alarmed about for the blue and gold supporters because of the huge amount of Roscommon players that were on duty for Third Level colleges in the various competitions, not alone in Connacht but also in Leinster and other provinces.

Last week we alluded to at least 15 players on the Roscommon panel who would not be available to play for John Maughan in the FBD League and when you add in the fact that Seamus O’Neill, Frankie Dolan and Paddy O’Connor all had to cry off the Roscommon panel for this game because of sickness or flu, it wasn’t a bad effort from those who did play.

The Roscommon full-back line looked porous throughout, which is a worry – however the good news is that the man who did most damage for Sligo IT was Castlerea St. Kevin’s’ own Enda Kenny, who was the best player on view and who laid down a marker to the selectors.

Doing well for Roscommon were David Hoey, who had a great game at centre half-back, Martin Reynolds of St. Faithleach’s, who made some very good catches in the middle of the field on his debut, Mark O’Carroll, who came on as sub and played well, and Conor Devanney, who kicked a couple of fine points.

Roscommon: Mark Miley; Stephen Ormsby, Anthony McDermott, Robbie Kelly; John Tiernan (0-1), David Hoey, Richard Dooner; Michael Finneran, Martin Reynolds; David O’ Gara, Karol Mannion (0-3), Ross Nolan; Conor Devanney (0-3, 1 free), Senan Kilbride, Johnny Dunning (0-3, 1 free). Subs: Mark O’Carroll for Nolan, John Collins (0-3, all frees) for O’Gara, John Rogers for Ormsby.

(From 11 January 2008)

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SportsPeople

No games, but GAA members at heart of community response < PAUL HEALY

Flights and hotel rooms in London have been cancelled, dressing rooms around the county remain locked, pitches lie empty in spring sunshine… that’s the reality of the GAA landscape in Roscommon in early April 2020.

The postponement of the Connacht Championship game between London and Roscommon – which was due to take place on May 3rd – was inevitable, and thankfully announced in good time. The postponement follows the suspension of all GAA activities until further notice, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

There may be no GAA action of any kind nationwide, but many GAA personnel throughout the country are actively involved in helping others at this very challenging time.

I contacted Roscommon County Board vice-chairperson Brian Carroll on Monday to get an update on what’s happening – or not happening – in the Roscommon GAA world.

London v Roscommon

The Connacht Championship opener was to take place on Sunday, 3rd of May next. While the Covid-19 lockdowns currently in place in the UK and Ireland may be over by then, the GAA took the decision to postpone

the London-Roscommon game last week, being cognisant of the fact that thousands of supporters had made, or were making, travel plans.

County Board vice-chairperson Brian Carroll, who had been organising the logistics, told the Roscommon People on Monday that all team-related flights, hotel bookings, etc. had been cancelled. “Flights and hotel rooms, etc. were all booked in November and have now been cancelled. The hotels were very understanding and cooperative” he said.

Future of this season’s competitions

The cancellation of all GAA activity has led to speculation about the implications for the remaining rounds of the

National Football League, and perhaps more so for the 2020 All-Ireland Championship.

Brian Carroll: “I know there has been speculation about a shorter All-Ireland campaign, different formats, etc.

Realistically, it’s just too early to say what will happen. We do not know for how long the restrictions will be in place. That is not a priority; the priority now is everybody’s health. Let’s get through this safely and then we can think about (the games)…”

The GAA response on the ground

Brian Carroll said there has been a massive response by GAA clubs in County Roscommon in relation to assisting people at this difficult time.

“The response has been fantastic. Our GAA clubs have put plans in place to help people in their parishes…in our towns and villages. The response has been terrific, and has placed the GAA at the bedrock of our communities.

Many other organisations are also putting their shoulders to the wheel.

“What is important now is that people get through this crisis, that we look out for the health and wellbeing of everyone in our community. The GAA is there to help. On behalf of the GAA, I want to wish everyone well.

We appeal to everyone to adhere to the HSE guidelines and do not hesitate to contact your local GAA club if you need assistance”.

‘Win a Home in London’ competition deferred At this unprecedented time, Roscommon GAA and Club Rossie have taken the very difficult decision to defer the ‘Win a Home in London’ competition until the 30th of December 2020.

In a statement, Club Rossie said: “We firstly want to thank those who have supported this competition so far and reassure them that this competition will definitely go ahead. However, during this exceptionally difficult time for people in Ireland, the UK and beyond, we want nothing to distract from the important task of defeating Covid-19 so we are suspending the promotion and marketing of the apartment in London City Island.

“Secondly, our own volunteer team need to focus on their own loved ones and also their own businesses in the short term as we too are faced with challenges over the coming months.

“Finally, we don’t believe we will be able to host a suitable event for the competition on 10 May 2020 due to Covid-19, given Government guidelines in Ireland, including guidelines on physical distancing and maximum number of people allowed at public events.

“Additionally, a key component of our marketing plan to promote this competition was our presence in London in the weeks leading up to the Roscommon v London GAA match. This

match has now being postponed and we don’t have clarity as to when it will be played.

“Since we launched the competition on 10 December 2019, we have sold over 8,560 tickets and we sincerely thank all those who have entered so far. The €856,000 raised is held in a ringfenced account for this competition which is being independently observed by PWC. “We are glad to say we have now covered all costs, including the apartment, and also marketing costs, and have a surplus generated which ultimately will go towards the redevelopment of Dr. Hyde Park and the development of the Dermot Earley Centre of Participation.

“While tickets are still available to purchase on winahomeinlondon.com we will pause marketing the competition until the worst of Covid-19 has passed. We wish all supporters of Roscommon GAA and all those in Ireland, the UK and in the 30 countries globally who have purchased a ticket entry the very best through these unprecedented times.

“We look forward to normality returning and having a special night on the 30th December when one lucky person will win a luxury, Ballymore developed, apartment in London City Island”.

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SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY Screen and heard…

On Newstalk (Off The Ball) John Giles picked his best ever Manchester United X1. Unlike with his Liverpool selection the previous week, there was an abundance of Irish men: Tony Dunne, Denis Irwin, Roy Keane and George Best.

The full line-up was: Peter Schmeichel, Denis Irwin, Nemanja Vidić, Jaap Stam, Tony Dunne, Roy Keane, Peter Scholes, Bobby Charlton, Cristiano Ronaldo, Denis Law, George Best.

I was pleased that Eric Cantona didn’t get a look in. Understandably, Giles gave honourable mention to Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs. No place for Beckham either (which I agree with). Bryan Robson was squeezed out too, likewise van Nistelrooy.

I would agree with every single selection from midfield up – Keane, Scholes and Charlton in the middle, Ronaldo and Best out wide, Law at centre-forward.

Giles was selecting players from his era – early 1960s onwards – so Duncan Edwards and other ‘Busby Babes’ weren’t considered.

It’s quite a team, but they may have needed three balls: one for Best, one for Ronaldo, and one between the other nine!

Farewell Mick (again)… you did the state some service!

There are rumours that the term ‘no nonsense’ was in use before Mick McCarthy emerged from a maternity ward in Barnsley all those years ago – but they’re unconfirmed.

He’s not a man to mess with, well, not unless your name is Roy Keane. Certainly if I was in a lift and the door was closing and I saw ‘Big Mick’ even ten paces away, I’d be holding that door open.

Mind you, age appears to have mellowed him. In his second term as Republic of Ireland manager, Mick always seemed to be in good form – philosophical and relaxed too – very much like a man who had learnt

how to appreciate good times when you’re living through them.

He’s a quirky chap, is our Mick.

The ‘blunt Yorkshireman’ has a quick and irreverent wit. Sometimes his comments at press conferences/ in media interviews were downright odd, and he could certainly be belligerent from time to time. But often they were very funny. And he was certainly a lot more relaxed this time around.

The no nonsense/gruff/blunt (take your pick) Barnsley lad turned out to be a great Irishman. Like us all, he had his faults, but he certainly did the state some service. I won’t mention Saipan, not this time (other than

to say I don’t think it was Mick’s finest moment, though I’d certainly have some sympathy for him).

His second term as Ireland manager has been cut short, due to the chaos visited on us by Covid-19 (Mick led us to the Euro 2020 playoffs, but due to scheduling issues arising from the pandemic, he’s stepped down early and his successor, Stephen Kenny, is now in the hot seat).

The Barnsley lad’s done good.

Mick owes us nothing. In fact we owe him our thanks, and best wishes. So all the best Mick, again.

Thanks for the memories. And good luck to Stephen.

Mick McCarthy

‘Our relationship came to be defined by two men: Trevor Brooking and Tony Currie’ HEROES REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS (a series by Paul Healy) It was just another Sunday in mid-1970s Ireland. Black and white all over…

My brother Gerard put the newspaper in front of his siblings. We were about to be introduced to the wonderful world of English soccer.

He drew our attention to the First Division League table…and revealed his plan. Each of us were to take it in turns to put on a blindfold, then randomly ‘pick’ a team by scrolling a pin over the league table. Gerard got West Ham. I got Leeds…

Heading for half a century on, I’ve still got Leeds. Still got Leeds. Back then, Gerard and I had three or four great years, the usual teenage brotherly silences punctuated by the teasing and taunting of our developing Leeds United-West Ham rivalry.

He was four years older than me. We were typical teenage brothers. Didn’t talk that much…quite a bit of grunting! We absolutely got on, it’s just that communication was minimal enough. Four years is a significant enough age gap when you’re in your teens, isn’t it? All that changed after that spontaneous blindfolded shaping of our football-supporting destinies.

There were no mobile phones, no social media, the video recorder hadn’t been invented.

Looking back, I recall playing marbles on the carpet in our long, narrow hallway in Roos-

Tony Currie

Trevor Brooking

key; regular kickarounds in the garden, and a mutual obsession with any televised sport.

Once we’d signed up to West Ham and Leeds, there was a new dynamic…for those three or four years. Gerard, being older, was way ahead of me in terms of football knowledge, and was just more into it than I was. When he got some work in Hanley’s factory, he even sent off a subscription to Upton Park to get the match programme from every West Ham home game posted to Rooskey.

Those glossy programmes made our soccer daydreams come to life. The tantalising covers and inside content were savoured…by both of us.

Billy Bonds, Frank Lampard (Senior), Alan Devonshire…and, most of all, Trevor Brooking.

Suddenly the exotic world of the English First Division had arrived in Rooskey.

Our relationship, in some strange way, came to be defined by two men: Trevor Brooking and Tony Currie. Brooking was West Ham’s suave, stylish midfielder. Ever-graceful, he moved slowly across the pitch with the superior air of a

prince who had reluctantly agreed to mingle with commoners.

At Leeds meanwhile, the fans’ hero was Tony Currie. Slightly paunchy, undoubtedly moody and lazy, he was a gifted, mercurial player… wonderfully enigmatic.

Smitten by our respective superstars, Gerard and I began to live our lives through a Trevor Brooking/Tony Currie narrative. Gerard marvelled at the brilliance of Brooking, I at the class of Currie. We teased one another about their respective merits. We all need heroes.

Leeds, then in transition/decline after the great Don Revie years, plodded along now, mostly in mid-table. West Ham were relegated in 1978. Humiliation for Brooking, but he remained loyal. In those days, West Ham’s team was almost entirely made up of Englishmen, all quaintly devoted to the London club’s tradition of playing with style and flair, usually to their cost.

With an entire division between him and the idealistic but now downgraded Brooking, Tony Currie kept rescuing Leeds, spraying fabulous passes around, while (slowly) joining the attack to guide

wonder goals past the opposing ‘keeper. Presumably at full-time he then headed off to the bookies/pub, cigar in hand and admirers in pursuit!

Nothing really stays the same. In August of 1979, to my absolute dismay, Leeds sold Currie to Sheffield United. Meanwhile, the stylists with the brittle backbone – West Ham – were adapting to life in Division Two. Things were changing.

When my brother Gerard co-founded Dynamo Rooskey (while still a teenager) and began playing for them, it turned out that he could spray a tidy pass around too. Happy days. Shortlived days.

When he died in a drowning accident in December 1979, aged 19, time seemed to stop with a crushing suddeness, before callously then stuttering on without us.

The early months of 1980 were a blur. Then, in May, West Ham, playing their ‘Enigmatic stylists’ card from down in Division 2, reached the FA Cup final against mighty Arsenal. Five months after Gerard passed away, his Hammers stunned the overwhelming favourites, winning the FA Cup. Trevor Brooking – my late brother’s hero – produced the winner, probably the only time he ever scored with a header. I cheered him on.

For many years, Dynamo Rooskey held an annual tournament for the Gerard Healy Memorial Cup. We won it one year. I played in the final, grasping the cup and something of the past.

For some time after Gerard’s passing, the West Ham United match programmes kept arriving in the post, with Billy Bonds proud and strong on the cover, and all that magical content inside, that scent of this wonderful, hypnotic world of English soccer. A world that could bond in many ways.

(Series continues next week).

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