Roscommon People

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

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL

Spend LOCAL

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633

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

Keep it local!

10 July 2020

The Local Paper iles and athrooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

We are now open

Please follow all HSE Covid-19 Guidelines

VOLUME: 689

Christy Connolly Recovery

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CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

TEL. 094 9620793 MOB. 086 2505325 / 087 2505325 E: connollychristy@eircom.net

Roscommon store now open for business

• Approved recyclers of end of life vehicles • Destruction certs issued • 24/7 recovery service available nationwide

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090 6634465

CASEY’S Frances’ Finishing Touches

Large range of Bedspreads reduced to €50 New opening hours 12 to 4pm

For orders and enquiries contact Frances on 087 6500931 The Square, Roscommon

Tel.: 090 6626270 or 087 6500931 Email: francesfinishingtouches@gmail.com

€10 Off Red Mills Leader Supreme 12kg Bag Was €39.95

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Roscommon-Galway Constituency

Wards

Eugene Contact 090 66 38000 Vótáil Deliveries from 3pm to 8pm daily

Murphy

Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

POIGNANT: Shane and Gordon Morley, sons of the late Detective Garda John Morley, speaking to Marty Horkan, father of the late Detective Garda Colm Horkan, at a commemoration ceremony to honour the memory of Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn on Tuesday. See pages 14-15. Picture: Michael McCormack

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland “I am committed to helping to improve the quality of life for people in rural Ireland which has largely been left behind- we need to build a future where people can live, work and enjoy the many benefits of rural living”

You know us, We’re LOCAL! For all your Home Heating & Fuel Needs

Jason McEvoy: Tel: 087 1888114 Eugene Murphy

Joe McEvoy: Tel. 087 1888115

Matt Devane: No 2: Orla Leyden Tel. 087 1882288 Aidan Casey: Elphin Street, Tel. 087 4006004

Senator

Eugene Murphy

An Ireland for all In the present difficult

Fighting back on behalf of the people of Roscommon/Galway Constituency Offices:

cirumstances, please be Ballinasloe, Market Square, Strokestown, reassured Roscommon Townavailable Co. Galway that I am Co. Roscommon Co. Roscommon Kevin Ireland: at all times if you have any  087 435 3834 Tel. 087 2216127  071 963 3000  090 662 5722 concerns or issues  eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

MOBILE: Working with your local Fianna Fáil team: Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cllr John Keogh, 087 1668775 Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Murphy

Finn Electrical Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

Large selection of Home Appliances

GREAT DEALS ON OFFER Washing Machines, Fridges, etc.

New Pharmaton Advanced Fizz

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McGUINNESS

Pharmacy

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

ATHLON E Ι M OATE LANESB OR OU GH Ι GA LWAY * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie

MOTOR ACCIDENTS If you were involved in an accident that was not your fault contact

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

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

Michael Fitzmaurice TD

Mob.: 086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

New Very Rose Cleansing Collection

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON Driving School MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA

087 2295551

With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Welcome back to all our customers!

Appointments any time and walk ins on Fridays

Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Please call Helen 087 6833053

People WATCHING

TIME TO GET PREPARED FOR YOUR DRIVING TEST DATE!

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 CREDIT RATING ERROR

I was recently refused a bank loan because I have a poor credit rating. I was quite surprised so I took up a copy of my credit rating report.

It suggested that my payments on another loan were not paid. This is incorrect. How do I arrange for my credit rating to be corrected?

The Irish Credit Bureau cannot change your credit report unless a lender requests it to be amended.

This request must be in writing.

By law, financial institutions must ensure that information they hold or give to anyone else about you is correct and up to date. Accordingly, you may insist that they correct any inaccurate information about you.

If your bank made a mistake, you should write to your bank and ask them to write to the Irish Credit Bureau with details of the amendment required.

You should also ask for a copy of this letter.

If your bank genuinely made an error, they should immediately correct any mistake and amend your credit report without delay. In the event that your bank delays or refuses to correct matters for you, you should consider making a formal complaint by referring the matter to the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.

If your bank did not make an error and your credit rating report is correct they may not change or remove unfavourable details from your report.

All lenders must provide an honest and truthful report of your loan repayment history.

It was a magical day…historic!

July 4th? Independence Day? You’re a closet yank?

NO! But what a day…I was in tears.

Has Marty Morrissey got ANOTHER show? At home with Marty? Out and about with Marty? Life on Planet Marty?

NO! Please, stop interrupting me!

I’m still not over the emotion of the day…it was wonderful. A moment in time!

WHAT IS IT? TELL ME, MY FRIEND! Last week, something truly beautiful happened in my life. Maybe not quite historic, but definitely emotional, definitely a milestone of sorts, something so special, it almost lifted all the CYCLING gloom ofACCIDENT recent months…

TELL ME! If you were involved in a cycling Myaccident friend…brace yourself…I went to contact the barbers!

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

(There’s a pause on the line) Are you still there?

YES! So that’s your milestone…your big day…your emotional experience?

THAT’S IT?!

Well…yes…and I don’t apologise. It was pretty special. I felt like a new man afterwards.

How did it go?

Oh, highly dramatic. I got to the barber shop at 10 am on Friday…

Nice… …and I scanned the street for any

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

potential Guerrilla attacks….

WHAT are you talking about? Is there a circus in town? Was there a gorilla on the loose?

No! Guerrilla attacks! It’s tense… near the barber’s! Are you not aware of the reports on social media? Hairy men wandering near barber shops, looking shifty….

Really?

Yeah, it’s a ‘thing’ now…hairy men, like snipers in a ditch, watching every move…desperate to see when the barber shop is empty, or even down to two or three customers!

Really? This is happening?

Yes, according to Facebook.

What we liked…

Throughout County Roscommon, there’s a ‘controlled surge’ in sporting activity, with social distancing and all Covid-related guidelines being implemented. It’s great, in particular, to see children returning to the playing fields, under the guidance of dedicated local volunteer coaches in the various sports…

Must me true so!

IT IS true, apparently!

Hairy men ‘keeping watch’ beside barber shops…why don’t they just GO IN? They’re waiting for when the barber’s goes quiet, when the crazy demand eases! Plus, some barbers are only allowing three customers in at a time…it’s mayhem out there!

So they wander up and down the street, looking around…

Yes! Mind you, some of them can’t see much, their hair has grown so long…! They wander up and down, then they pounce when the moment is right!

How did it fare out for you?

Well, I had a good look around, and lucky enough the street seemed to be empty, so I just went for it!

You got in?

Yes, very fortunate! There were just two customers inside! I dived into a chair, kept my head down, and began small-talking to the barber!

You WERE lucky! In and out in an hour?

Eh…five hours.

FIVE HOURS?!! Why did it take so long to get a haircut?

Half an hour waiting…20 minutes in the chair…and four hours waiting inside before it was safe to go out!

Safe to go out? I don’t get it?

Do you know what it feels like to emerge from a barber’s, hair nicely trimmed, when the faces of four hairy men are pressed tight against the window?!!

What we didn’t like…

Reports of large crowds congregating on city streets – socialising outside pubs – were worrying, but frankly not surprising.

What PEOPLE are talking about ...

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

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

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

PIC OF WEEK: Alin Curmie, Sara and Diana Pirlog in Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon. Picture: Michael McCormack

What was the nation talking about last week? Let’s see… new Taoiseach Micheál Martin is still beset by misconduct and rebellion within his own party (Fianna Fáil); Sinn Féin on the defensive over allegations that party members flouted Covid-19 regulations at the funeral of an IRA man; the slow but very welcome return of sport… exciting matches in the Premier League all week, plus more success for the Aidan O’Brien horse racing ‘stable’; Ivan Yates is to retire (mmnn…we’ll miss him…a bit)…and the weather… no prize to first person who says ‘I think we’ve had our summer’…

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

INTERIORS Change of opening hours from August 1st:

Monday: CLOSED. Tuesday to Saturday: 9.30am to 6pm. Sunday: 2pm to 6pm.

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m a e r d r u o y g ‘Maki n ’ e l b a d r o f f fur nit ure a

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

04

NewsPeople

New roles for Kerrane, Murphy

Editor Mikey Monaghan

Booklet €15

1

Clooneycolgan Booklet goes on sale!

Editor Mikey Monaghan

Booklet €15

1

The Clooneycolgan social committee have compiled a pictorial history of Cloonycolgan Community Centre, which was Lisaniskey School from 1896 to 1969.

The Clooneycolgan Commemorative Booklet, edited by Michael

Monaghan, will be on sale in the centre on Thursday, 16th of July from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. The booklet is €15. It is a 120-page pictorial history of the school, centre and surrounding townlands.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has been appointed to Sinn Féin’s front bench as part of what she called “a strong team from the West”.

Speaking following her appointment as the party’s spokesperson on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands, Deputy Kerrane said: “I am very proud to be appointed to a strong Sinn Féin front bench team as the lead Opposition party in Leinster House. I am hugely passionate about our rural towns and villages. It’s where I was born and it’s where I live. We need to work to make it thrive and we have much to do.

“I have been the party’s advisor on Social Protection since 2016 and that role has given me a real knowledge of our Social Protection system and the need for it to work for those who need it most. This will be particularly important as we now try to build as a society emerging from Covid-19.

“I am excited for the challenge ahead and I am proud of the strong team put forward by my party from all regions. I have always been immensely proud to come from the West and I look forward to the challenges ahead in this brief and to holding Minister Humphreys to account every step of the way”.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has been appointed by the Taoiseach to the Rural and Community Affairs portfolio in Seanad Éireann.

Senator Murphy said: “I was delighted to accept the offer. The Taoiseach spoke about the importance of delivering the programme for Government to the people and as the sole Government representative in County Roscommon and one of only two Government representatives in Roscommon/Galway, I will endeavour to use every opportunity to work and deliver to rural communities but also acknowledging the fact that my role is also to deliver to the wider region”.

The Fianna Fáil Senator went on to say that he would be working closely with Social Protection, Community and Rural Development Minister Heather Humphreys and the Government Chief Whip Dara Calleary to make sure that there was a specific emphasis on economic recovery in the West in the aftermath of the Covid-19 fallout.

“The West in particular will bear the brunt of the fallout in the aftermath of Covid-19 and it is vital that the July jobs stimulus package places particular emphasis on recovery for this region,” said Senator Murphy.

Superintendent Thomas Colsh

Garda promotions

An Garda Síochána has confirmed a number of promotions, allocations and transfers which have taken effect between the 2nd and 8th of July 2020.

Assistant Commissioner Anne Marie Cagney is appointed to the Dublin Metropolitan Region.

Locally, the following Superintendents are assigned responsibility following promotion: • Superintendent Mary Gaynor has been assigned to Carrick-on-Shannon District • Superintendent Christopher Grogan to Baltinglass District • Superintendent Padraic Burke to Ballymote District • Superintendent Thomas Colsh (pictured in Loughglynn on Tuesday, when he attended the 40th anniversary commemoration event for murdered Gardaí John Morley and Henry Byrne) to Castlerea District.

Garda Superintendent Goretti Sheridan, a native of Rathmullan, Co. Donegal, leaves the Castlerea Garda Division this week to take up a new position in the Sligo Garda Division.

Our current opening hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm ( open through lunch) with priority to our over 70’s and vulnerable members from 10am to 11am daily.

3 Church Street, Longford Phone: (043) 3346440 Fax: (043) 3346020 Email: info@connellansolicitors.ie

Connellan Solicitors LLP has announced the appointment of a new partner to the firm. Brendan Noone has been appointed as a partner to the firm and will serve as a partner with Mark Connellan and Gerard Carthy. Prior to joining Connellan Solicitors LLP Brendan worked in a large Dublin law firm where he specialised in dealing with corporate entities and private individuals in both commercial and residential developments. Brendan is also a keen litigation solicitor and deals regularly with matters that come before the District Court all the way to the High Court.

Brendan deals in all areas of the law. However, he has a particular interest in litigation, probate, wills, administration of estates and real estate which includes the acquisition and disposal of residential and commercial property. Brendan is a member of the Law Society of Ireland, Medico-Legal Society of Ireland and is secretary of the Longford Solicitors Bar Association. He is also qualified to act as a solicitor in England and Wales and holds a specialised certificate in conveyancing from the Law Society of Ireland. He has also had an article published in a leading legal publication for solicitors in Ireland. He is originally from Creggs, Co. Galway and now lives in Westmeath with his wife Aisling and daughter Kate.

Connellan Solicitors LLP is one of the largest and well-established firms in Longford and the surrounding Counties. Connellan Solicitors LLP has over 13 staff and deals in all areas of the law. It has a varied client base ranging from private individuals to large corporate entities. The firm has invested heavily in its technology and has a state-of-the-art legal case management system together with voice dictation technology. The firm and its clients have benefited from this technology throughout the COVID lockdown as it meant that the firm could easily deal with clients and colleagues via video conferences and remote access throughout the lockdown. The firm has been around in one form or another since 1914 and its longevity and success is in no small part due to the excellent staff that the firm has. The firm was nominated as a finalist for Leinster law firm of the year in the Irish Law Awards 2019.

If Brendan or any of team at Connellan Solicitors can assist you with any matter please do not hesitate to contact us on 043-3346440 or at info@connellansolicitors.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

4H Abbey Hotel Galway Road, Roscommon Tel. 090 6626240 • Email: Events@abbeyhotel.ie www.abbeyhotel.ie

Abbey Hotel, Roscommon reopens this Friday!

The Grealy family and staff at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon look forward to reopening and welcoming back all our valued customers and guests on this Friday, July 10th.

Our Carvery will be open this Friday from 12.30 pm to 3 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 12.30 pm to 4 pm. Early Bird menu available daily from 3 pm, with some delicious new additions to the menu. New cocktail menu coming soon.

We are now taking bookings for all functions and special occasions and early booking is advised. Email events@abbeyhotel.ie or call 090 6626240 (all our menus are available to download from our website on www.abbeyhotel.ie).

To celebrate our reopening, follow us on Facebook for a chance to win a Hamper from Java Coffee! Gift vouchers can be purchased online on our website or at hotel reception. Meanwhile, it’s our intention to reopen Abbey Health & Fitness on July 20th next.

At the Abbey Hotel, we have really missed you all over the past few months and we hope you and your families have stayed safe and well.

We have a Health & Safety Charter in place, reflecting the fact that

Re-opening THIS FRIDAY July 10th your health and safety will be at the forefront of our minds. (All Abbey Hotel staff have received additional appropriate training to ensure best practises and standards are met).

Weddings/conferences For all wedding enquiries, please email weddings@abbeyhotel.ie. We will have a special 10% discount offer on all new wedding bookings for 2021/22 but couples are advised to register for their appointments as there are limited dates available for 2021.

For all conferences, meetings and other events, please email events@ abbeyhotel.ie.

Remember to book direct for the best available rates via www.abbeyhotel.ie or call 090 6626240.

Owned and Managed by the Grealy family since 1963

A staycation?

For guests wishing to avail of a well deserved summer staycation, we have 10% off all B&B for a limited time. Simply use AbbeyHotel10 to book on our website www.abbeyhotel.ie. * Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Roscommon receives ‘Historic Towns’ funding

Child poverty estimates ‘alarming’ – Kerrane

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection Claire Kerrane TD has warned that families must be protected to ensure they are not forced into poverty due to the economic crisis.

Her comments follow the publication of figures by the Economic and Social Research Institute estimating that child poverty could increase sharply unless there is some economic recovery this year.

Deputy Kerrane said: “This report serves as a stark warning of the serious and far-reaching repercussions of the economic crisis. These estimates are deeply alarming and highlight how ordinary workers and families must be protected to ensure that they are not forced to shoulder the burden of austerity in the months and years ahead.

“The current child poverty rate is already far too high at 16%. Projections by the ESRI that this figure could rise to 21% by the end of this year are deeply concerning.

“No child should be subjected to the indignity and distress of a childhood in poverty. Children cannot be allowed to become collateral damage in the economic crisis.

“The Government must act urgently and robustly to ensure that vulnerable families receive sufficient financial support to protect their incomes in the difficult time ahead”.

Multi Award Winning Hotel, Restaurant, Conference Leisure Facilities

Joe Newton out and about in Castlerea. Picture: Michael McCormack.

The Heritage Council, along with the new Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, has announced that six historic towns will share €1m funding under the Historic Towns Initiative 2020.

The €1m in capital funding will help to provide jobs and economic stimulus through heritage-led regeneration and will aid the rebuilding of local economies with heritage as a focal point.

The Historic Towns Initiative is a joint initiative between the Department and the Heritage Council and this year’s scheme follows on from highly successful programmes in both 2018 and 2019. The towns receiving funding in 2020 are: Tralee, Co. Kerry; Ramelton, Co. Donegal; Ballina, Co. Mayo; Roscommon, Co. Roscommon; Sligo, Co. Sligo; Clones, Co. Monaghan.

The six towns were selected following a competitive process inviting local authorities to propose projects for heritage-led regeneration in one historic town in their area, with the selection process completed in February 2020, but delayed in line with public health restrictions.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Wednesday Who Do You Think You Are? – like any Louis Theroux programme, or repeats of Fawlty Towers – never disappoints.

(Mind you, I sometimes suspect that the tears/emotional reactions on discovering – for example – that your great-great-grandparents lived in a hut with a family of 15 or 16, can be a bit ‘put on’ for camera).

Anyways, tonight’s episode (I’ve since discovered it was a repeat, and was made a couple of years ago) featured the English pop star Boy George.

We’ve always been aware of George’s Irish roots (his mother, Dinah O’Dowd (nee Glynn) was born in Ireland). Now this programme revealed fascinating aspects of his Irish family’s history.

His grandmother, Bridget Kinahan, spent a number of years in St. Vincent’s Industrial School, Goldenbridge, having effectively been snatched off the street by the authorities.

Most movingly, one of his relations (Thomas Bryan) died by hanging in Mountjoy Jail, alongside Kevin Barry.

Watching Boy George sing the iconic Kevin Barry (with some Irish singers in a Dublin bar) was quite a highlight of a fascinating programme.

As an aside, the regular references to Kevin Barry reminded me of an early childhood memory. My family opened the Kon Tiki Bar & Lounge outside Rooskey in 1970.

Just about every night, there was a sing-song. And ‘Kevin Barry’ and ‘The Men Behind the Wire’ featured prominently. Those were the times that were.

Friday Driving past a barber shop in a town near Roscommon, I could not resist when I saw just one customer inside. “I’m still ‘shopping’ local” I reassured myself, as I parked the car with haste. The walk back to the slightly mysteriously quiet barber’s (mind you, it was only 11.30

Frown) was up like Usain Bolt, or maybe like a Bat out of Hell. Me? I emerged back into bubble of the afternoon, my hair cut, and, for this moment in time at least, all well with the world.

Saturday

And if all dogs are not kept on leads, you’ll be answerable to me! A bird ‘on duty’ at Roscommon’s fabulous Loughnaneane Park.

Picture: Mick McCormack

am) was undertaken with some apprehension. Sure enough, when I got there, two more customers had arrived!

The barber was a Polish lady. Her expression on my arrival suggested I was (just about) welcome to step inside.

Customer One was in the chair; Customer Two, immersed in his phone, was lounging on a bench, like he owned it.

Social distancing in mind, I had no option but to join Customer Three, on a second bench in the centre of the salon.

Customer Three – a carefree man of 65 years or more – was, all due respect, etc., very dishevelled. He had a long, dirty coat, two sandals and no socks.

Neither of us spoke. Dishevelled Man was looking at the floor, perhaps musing about the 3.50 at Kempton Park, or life itself.

Somewhat frustrated by the less than perfect social distancing, I just looked at his sock-less feet. With no maga-

zines or papers in barbers’ just now, there wasn’t even an article about Harry and Meghan to browse through.

An older man opened the door. The Polish barber asked him to close it and stay outside. She varied between allowing three and four inside at the one time. As luck would have it, Customer Two, up to now commanding Bench One, decided to call it a day. Maybe his phone ceased! He left, and the older man came in. He had a plastic bag and a frown.

Customer One, sitting in the chair, was a young Irish man, glorying in his primacy. He chatted happily with the barber, while we patiently waited for the first haircut of the pandemic.

When Customer One was done, the Polish lady gave Dishevelled Man the nod. I tightened further into the bench as he reached close to me to hang his dirty coat on a rail.

“What can I do for you?” she asked.

“Average” Dishevelled Man replied.

“Average?”

“In between, in the middle”.

In fairness, I knew what he meant.

Meanwhile, Man With Frown (Customer Four) was on edge. In fairness, I could empathise with him too. It seemed too good to be true. We were so close. After four months, we were on the verge of the elusive haircut.

Just when I thought my moment had come, Dishevelled Man had to spring a surprise. Mr. ‘Average, please’ (the irony!) suddenly wanted his eyebrows tended to. Oh for God’s sake! Go and buy some socks, if you’re so appearance-conscious!

When it finally happened, it was glorious. I think Meatloaf was singing on the radio in the barber’s shop. Dishevelled Man was gone, and I wish him well. Customer Four (Man With

We are Leeds, but we daren’t believe. Not quite, not yet.

There has been too much hurt over the years, too many close calls, too much heartache.

Since falling out of the top flight sixteen years ago, the once-great Leeds United have been through the sort of sporting hell that perhaps only snooker’s Jimmy White and Mayo footballers can identify with.

Leeds (who beat Blackburn today) are marching on, at the top of the Championship table, with the Promised Land very definitely within reach. In many seasons past, they’ve made it to the playoffs, only to collapse with the finishing line in sight. Last season, as a previously impressive Leeds ran out of steam, I wrote here that the only way they could return to the Premier League would be via one of the two automatic promotion places. I wasn’t convinced then (and haven’t changed my view) that, given the pressure and weight of expectation, they are psychologically in a position to come through the play-offs’ minefield!

It’s a very nervous time for the many Leeds fans in Roscommon.

All around me, people say Leeds are on the cusp of The Big Return, but I am loathe to tempt fate just yet.

It would be particularly poignant if Leeds were to go up in the year in which the club lost two legends.

Norman Hunter and Trevor Cherry both passed away in 2020. Wonderful footballers, their handprints on our history.

Hopefully the great Leeds United are within weeks of promotion.

Who wouldn’t want the club of Giles, Bremner, Clarke, Gray, Madeley, Lorimer, Hunter, Charlton, Reaney and others, back where they belong?

07

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Informed social & cultural discussion of Ireland today

The conversations continue. . .

The12th Annual Percy French Festival

Time for a French Revue Michael Fitzmaurice TD Maria Stein

Dr Fáinche Ryan Jayne Barry

Kevin Myers Vincent Pierse

Mary Kenny Michael Banahan

Prof. Patricia Casey Fraiser Hickland

Prof. Ray Kinsella Eileen Coyle

Prof. Gerard Casey David Larkin

lectures Poii, Th, and Thoogy: Convaion wih Hannah And D Fáinh Ryan Th Dah of Jonaim Kvin My Jonaim, a Dpid Ca? May Knny Py Fnh and h Changing Fa of Iand Pofo Paiia Cay Thi im i ay i diffn: Why w nd o bid an anaiv o Gobaizaion Pofo Ray Kina How F Shod F Sph B? Pofo Gad Cay Th Sad Dmi of h Moda Man Maia Sin Iih Waoo Jayn Bay

errces Fom Coonyqin o h Coghbin Vinn Pi A Viion of Iand, Sopano & Piano Ein Coy & Fai Hikand A Fnh a Dyan Miha Banahan & Find

Wih a Too on h F and a Twidd on h Fidd David Lakin

Castlecoote House, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon Wednesday 22nd–Friday 24th July 2020

Each Whole Day €35 • Individual lectures €10 each • Afternoon recitals €14 each • Whole Festival €100

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Guided tours of House & Gardens: 17th March–31st October (excluding Festival) . Daily 2pm–6pm . Afternoon tea in The Old Ballroom

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H E A T I NG

08

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

Callaghan welcomes CLÁR programme

Details of the CLÁR programme for 2020 have been announced and application forms are available from Roscommon County Council.

Cllr. Liam Callaghan has encouraged community groups, schools and health and wellbeing organisations to consider how the programme may help their local areas.

This year’s programme is under three headings: 1. Support for schools and community measures; 2. Community recreation; 3. Community Wellbeing Support, comprising of meals on wheels and mobility Cancer Care Transport.

Cllr. Callaghan has encouraged groups to take the time to apply (as the closing date is the 17th of July) and to contact him personally if any further advice is needed.

Work on Creagh footpaths welcomed

Roscommon County Council began work last week on a new footpath and lighting between Glentaun junction and Dolan’s Service Station on the old road from Ballinasloe to Athlone. The laying of another new footpath on the Shannonbridge road at Suckfield will also begin shortly.

Creagh Community Council welcomes these developments which have been made possible by it acquiring €100,000 under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme.

Creagh Council treasurer P.J. Lenehan said: “This is great news for the people of Creagh and South Roscommon. Creagh Council was in the happy position – with generous financial support from Dolan’s Service Station – of providing the required matching funds.

“When both projects are completed, the many walkers, joggers and pedestrians/shoppers will feel a lot safer and hopefully a lot more people will begin to avail of the wonderfully healthy exercise facilities in Creagh”, Mr. Lenehan concluded.

Clear plan for schools vital – Murphy

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has stressed that a clear plan for the reopening of primary and secondary schools in September is urgently required.

He says he has been contacted by anxious and worried parents throughout his constituency in relation to the lack of certainty about when students will be able to return to school.

“There seems to be widespread confusion amongst parents, students, teachers and staff as to what exactly is happening in relation to a return to schools this September.

“The Minister for Education, my Fianna Fáil colleague Norma Foley, has only been in the post for a short time and I am confident that, along with all the relevant sectors/ stakeholders, she will come forward with a solution to ensure that students commence going back to school in September as it is vital for the economic recovery of the country,” concluded Senator Murphy.

20 years after his death, memories of the ‘reluctant politician’ Every picture tells a story

I

t is, on one level, an ordinary enough scene.

It could be an ordinary man, walking down the street, suit in hand…perhaps going to the airport, or for a weekend break, or maybe to attend an important function.

But while the man in this photograph would have insisted that he was very much an ordinary man, in some ways he wasn’t.

Well, maybe what I need to say is that he was an ordinary man…who made an extraordinary impact.

This is a photograph of the late Tom Foxe, taken in Roscommon town, near his public house (the pub is still there, still Foxe’s). The photograph was taken by well-known local photographer Gerard O’Loughlin on a summer’s day in 1989.

It is – particularly now that Tom is deceased – an enduring, nostalgic, evocative image of a very popular man. We’ll come back to the photo later…

Many readers will know the ‘Tom Foxe story’ – many more of you may not. In short, he was a publican, community activist, raconteur and a popular resident of Roscommon. Tom was also very well known in agricultural and sporting circles; in particular, he was a very knowledgeable boxing enthusiast.

In 1989, his life took an unexpected turn. Some weeks before that year’s General Election, Tom was approached to run for the Dáil. The approach came from the HAC (Hospital Action Committee), of which Tom was a member. Tom considered the invitation…and decided against accepting.

Although he was passionate about the health services in Roscommon – and the future of the County Hospital was in some doubt at the time – Tom didn’t think he was the right candidate for the HAC. He didn’t see himself as a politician.

But then Tom had a rethink, and agreed to run.

He knew, and we knew, it still wasn’t really his thing…but the hospital issue was simmering, and liable to boil over.

Not many people outside of the HAC gave Tom Foxe a chance. Certainly the national media saw him as a complete outsider. But, sensationally, he was elected as an Independent (HAC) TD for Roscommon. Within weeks he had hatched the ‘Foxe Deal’ with Charles Haughey, in return for supporting the Fianna Fáil leader as Taoiseach.

That deal is credited with transforming the fortunes of Roscommon Hospital. Foxe turned out to be a canny politician. He never lost his common touch. No fear of that. He was re-elected in 1992, before losing the seat in 1997. He died on the 8th of February 2000, having bravely battled illness.

20 years on from his untimely passing, Tom Foxe is fondly remembered by those who knew him. A bench outside Roscommon Hospital, engraved in his honour, is a reminder to all who pass or pause there, of the man’s legacy.

So too is Gerard O’Loughlin’s memorable and timeless photograph. It shows Tom Foxe setting

off from his premises in Roscommon to travel to Dublin for his first day as a member of Dáil Éireann. It was first published in the Roscommon Champion. It’s a good photo for many reasons: it’s nicely proportioned; there’s the eye contact between Tom Foxe and the photographer; plus it just beautifully captures the start of an unexpected new chapter in the life and times of an ordinary/not really ordinary man.

In my book ‘Nothing About Sheep Stealing’, I described this photograph thus: ‘…he holds his jacket in one hand, and a second suit is draped across his shoulder. Now he strides towards his car on the Athlone Road, ready to merge into the city traffic before taking his seat in our parliament, across from Charles J. Haughey, in whom he now must trust. There is no turning back now.

The people have spoken. The publican offered himself to the people, so precious was the cause.

In a strange way the journey must have been both lonely and exciting. The reluctant politician, the man who loves Ali and Foreman, is off to do his people’s bidding, off to meet his own destiny’.

– Paul Healy

* Photograph courtesy of Gerard O’Loughlin

* This is an occasional series. If you’d like to submit a photograph that’s special to you for consideration for publication in this section, please email to paul@ roscommonpeople.ie and/or post to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. Please include a short message about the photograph and the circumstances in which it was taken.

Please include contact details.

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

09

Roscommon County Council

Covid-19 Business Restart Grant

The Covid-19 Business Restart Grant for micro and small businesses is a tool to support businesses in our County, impacted by Covid-19, to reopen their doors and reconnect with the market place.

Qualifying Criteria • Subject to qualifying criteria, any business can apply that has a COMMERCIALLY RATEABLE PREMISES or where rates are paid on your behalf and attributable to the business premises you occupy.

• The business must have a turnover of less than €5m and have 50 or less employees.

• The business must have suffered a projected 25%+ loss in revenue from 1st April to 30th June 2020.

• The business must commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed.

• The business must also declare the intention to retain employees that are benefitting from the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS).

Businesses Not Eligible Multiple chain stores, i.e. a business that is a non-financially independent branch of a group of chain stores which is owned and managed by a single entity, are not eligible. Non-commercial organisations such as community and sporting premises (including charity shops and community and sporting premises with a bar) are not eligible. Businesses that do not operate from commercially rateable premises (tradesmen, service providers, etc.) are not eligible. Premises that were vacant prior to the Covid-19 emergency are not eligible for the grant.

How Much?

The grant will be the amount of your rates demand in respect of calendar year 2019 only, subject to a minimum of €2,000 and a max of €10,000.

How can I use the grant?

The grant is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grant could be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, e.g. utilities, insurance, refurbishment or for measures to ensurem employee and customer safety.

How to apply?

Applications can be made online via www.roscommoncoco.ie from Friday 22nd May 2020. Click on My Online Services, register as a user and complete the online form – Covid-19 Business Restart Grant.

Covid-19 Restart Grant Help with the costs of reopening your business following COVID-19 closure

Closing Date: The closing date for receipt of completed online applications is 31st August 2020.

Tel: 090 6632555 – Monday – Friday during offices hours.

Email: restartgrant@roscommoncoco.ie Register for My Online Services at www.roscommoncoco.ie Martin Lydon Director of Services Roscommon County Council

Údar Loca

10

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Don’t stand so close to me…

I think we can all agree that facing lockdown was pretty scary.

However, for many people, coming back out again can prove to be even more worrying. I mention this because it seems there’s a certain section of society that appears to think that now many of our restrictions have been lifted it’s a free for all, giving them a licence to totally disregard the social distancing rules.

I mean, how annoying is it when you’re waiting in a queue inside a coffee shop, you place your order, stand back – because you respect the rules – and a couple of eejits walk in and sandwich you to such an extent you can smell their bad breath? Yeah, happened to me during the week!

Look, I get it, this is the first real bit of freedom we’ve had since lockdown began, and while

thankfully life is beginning to return to normal, and it’s great to get back into the office and visit the shops/pubs/restaurants, etc., there’s still the need to remain cautious. There’s still the necessity to shield ourselves from a killer virus that’s likely set to stay with us for a long time.

It’s my opinion that what Roscommon really needs right now is for its people to adopt a common sense approach. As our local businesses face what are clearly reopening uncertainties – with management and staff trying hard to adhere to the government’s and the HSE’s public health advice and guidelines – it’s up to us to behave ourselves.

It’s up to us to ensure that when we enter a business owner’s premises that we help them and their staff to apply these regula-

tions as best we can. Remember, they’ve been working hard in the background, carrying out readiness assessments, identifying risks and training staff; their explicit goal being to make sure customers/clients are as safe as is reasonably possible. We need to help them by respecting their efforts… not hindering them!

To be honest with you readers, at this stage of our national health crisis, I’d have thought I wouldn’t feel the need to have to police other people’s behaviour along with policing my own. I’d have reckoned on the majority of individuals having a bit of cop on. Clearly I was wrong! Clearly it’s the biological destiny of some morons to play Russian roulette with others’ lives. Wouldn’t it be great if supermarkets stocked cop on in a can? You could buy it

in bulk, open it up, heat it in the microwave, garnish it with manners and drink it once a day!

I’m not backward about coming forward. However, I admit I’ve gone from my puckering-up-myeyes-into-squints look, to smiling and politely asking offenders to please stand back a tad, to doing what I did this week and, despite having paid for my coffee, I walked out of that café so fast I had G-Force cheeks! Why did I give in so easily? Well, because it appears empathy’s in short supply these days and reacting can run the risk of you being verbally abused by the ignoramus who broke the rules, thus taking the chance of an argument escalating; something which won’t make a stressful situation any more bearable. Simples!

My disgust at Cowen’s cop-out

Dr. Tony Holohan

Sending my best to the Holohan family

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His voice provided a steadying, calming influence in almost every home across the country during the height of our coronavirus health scare…except mine! I cannot and I will not forget that, (despite his terribly sad personal situation), the State’s most senior health advisor once gave a directive against a review of the CervicalCheck screening programme the day after Vicky Phelan called for an investigation into the process.

I will not forget that CervicalCheck – although I believe it saved me – failed Vicky Phelan and Emma Mhic Mhathúna, (37) who was affected by the controversy and who passed away nearly two years ago, leaving behind five children.

I will not forget the women of the 221 Plus Cervical Check Support Group and the fact that Dr. Holohan ‘strongly’ ad-

vised then Health Minister Simon Harris to ‘not commit to a review of CervicalCheck arising from the recent court case,’ adding the ‘appropriate way forward’ was to ‘state that you have asked me to provide a report on the matter, including whether further actions or steps are required’.

This direction was delivered following the revelation that others had smears incorrectly read, and hadn’t been told of an audit which discovered the errors. Thankfully, Simon Harris ignored Tony Holohan’s advice and ordered a review.

That said, I do sincerely send my prayers and very best wishes to the Holohan family during this extremely sad and stressful time, and most especially to his wife Emer Feely, as she bravely battles a terminal illness.

When someone gets behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol, receives a drink-driving ban, then fobs off the incident as being a “terribly stupid, stupid mistake” my reaction will always be…what a load of bull!

I’m talking about Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen, an individual whose pathetic excuse for his actions leads me to believe he’s possibly in danger of drowning in a puddle of his own selfishness!

As the granddaughter of a darling beloved man killed by a drink-driver, I find Mr. Cowen’s declaration of “shame” to be an insult. Indeed, given An Taoiseach’s “I am disappointed that I learned about it in this way and have made that clear to him,” statement, it appears Michéal Martin’s more perturbed at being in the dark regarding this incident, than he is about the fact he’s promoted an egocentric man to ministerial level! But that’s just my opinion.

Who’s sweating now Andrew?

Anyone remember Prince Andrew’s “I have a peculiar medical condition…I didn’t sweat at the time because I had suffered what I would describe as an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War when I was shot at, and I simply…it was impossible for me to sweat,” comment?

He made it during a BBC interview while dismissing allegations levelled at him by Virginia Giuffre relating to his friendship with alleged serial sex offender/trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. However, on foot of the recent arrest of his close pal Ghislaine Maxwell, who’s accused of grooming underage victims for sexual abuse by Epstein, I have to ask…who’s sweating now Andrew?

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

11

NewsPeople

Gardaí in appeal to father of missing toddler Gardaí are still searching for a toddler who was reported missing from her home in Ballaghaderreen last Friday.

Gardaí believe 23-month-old Jasmine Arshad is in the company of her father, Arshad Shiraz (38 years old). Both Jasmine and Arshad went missing from their home in Ballaghaderreen on Friday, 3rd of July 2020 at 5.30 pm.

Gardaí are satisfied that Jasmine and Arshad travelled from Ballaghaderreen to Dublin via public transport at approximately 1.35 pm on Friday, 3rd of July 2020, and disembarked in the city centre at approximately 4.30 pm.

An Garda Síochána are not aware of Jasmine’s whereabouts at this time. Gardaí are appealing to anyone with any information on Jasmine’s whereabouts to contact Castlerea

Garda Station on 094 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Gardaí are also appealing to Jasmine’s father, Arshad Shiraz, to urgently make contact with An Garda Síochána.

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

Public warned of TV licence scam Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher is warning people to be aware of a scam whereby people are being falsely advised by email and text that their TV licence is due for renewal. Cllr.

Shanagher said: “I received three such emails with a green

An Post logo advising me to click on a link to renew my subscription.

“I contacted An Post to make them aware of this scam. They subsequently put a notice on their official An Post website advising people

that An Post do not send out emails reminding people to pay their TV licence and if they send emails to people they will always include the person’s name and address within the body of an email,” she advised.

KERRANE TD

Main  :Street, 087Ballaghaderreen.

194 5254 Tel. 094 9861688

 : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

The

G

D News page

The residents of The Walk, Blackstick Road and Sliabh Ban View estate recently came together and collected money from local residents to purchase and commission a defibrillator which is now fitted and ready for use at The Walk, Roscommon. Pictured are Martina O’Gara, Helen Dempsey, Michael Fry, Alec Dempsey, Catherine Beirne, Paula McNamara, Kathleen McDermott and Anne Murphy. Picture: Michael Burke

Cluain Ard Bake Sale raises almost €600 for Children’s Hospital

Aisling Faughnan presents a lemon drizzle cake to the raffle winner Holly Harkins at the recent bake sale in Cluain Ard in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Also pictured are James Doyle, Ronan O’Donnell, Darragh O’Donnell and Catherine Doyle and neighbourhood dog ‘Snowy’.

Gleeson’s Roscommon win another prestigious award Gleeson’s Roscommon has just been awarded the Hotels Combined Recognition of Excellence Award for 2020. This award is a recognition for consistently achieving the highest standards of customer satisfaction worldwide.

The boutique townhouse hotel achieved an outstanding score of 9.1 out of 10 based on customer reviews from the Australian-based hotel price comparison website.

“We are absolutely thrilled with this news”, said Cait Gleeson, General Manager and daughter of founders Eamonn and Mary Gleeson. “We pride

ourselves on giving a really personal service to our guests and an award like this, based on guest reviews, is a wonderful endorsement of our staff”.

“We are thrilled to be working with the best hotels in Ireland.

Gleeson’s Roscommon has proven its place among them with this award and its commitment to providing high quality services to all guests,” said Melinda Balazs, Hotel Awards Programme Manager at Hotels Combined.

Gleeson’s now joins an elite group of hotels around the world that have been awarded the Hotels Combined Recognition of Excellence.

Covid-19 has brought many challenges but it has also helped to bring out the best in communities and a group of children from the Cluain Ard area of Ardsallagh in Roscommon Town made the most of their time in lockdown by organising a charity fundraiser.

The children managed to raise almost €600 for Crumlin Children’s Hospital through a recent bake sale in their neighbourhood with family, friends and neighbours all turning out to support their heart-warming efforts.

James Doyle (9), Catherine Doyle (7), Aisling Faughnan (11), Ronan O’Donnell (9) and Darragh O’Donnell (7) decided to make the most of their time in lockdown by doing something to help others.

The children and their families made a wonderful selection of cup cakes, scones, and lemon drizzle cake, coffee

cake, cookies and brownies and they sold the items through a stall in Cluain Ard. Neighbours and friends also baked a number of items for the bake sale and there was a terrific turnout as the entire neighbourhood pitched in to make donations in aid of this worthy cause.

Social distancing guidelines and sanitation guidelines were adhered to and the event was a great success.

A raffle was held at the end of the bake sale with Holly Harkins from Cluain Ard being selected as the lucky winner of a beautiful lemon drizzle cake.

The children plan to send a cheque and a handwritten letter to Crumlin Children’s Hospital outlining details of their efforts. Thanks to the Cluain Ard and Ardsallagh neighbourhood for turning out to support the children.

Roscommon actor Jarlath Tivnan stars with Paul Mescal!

‘Drifting’, a new short film written and directed

by Robert Higgins and Patrick McGivney, will have its world premiere at this year’s Galway Film Fleadh.

The film stars Paul Mescal (Normal People), Dafhyd Flynn (Michael Inside), Roscommon actor Jarlath Tivnan, Lorcan Cranitch, Simone Collins and Oisin Robbins. Electronic producer Daithí has created an original score for the film.

The 32nd Galway Film Fleadh will be an online only event due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.

‘Drifting’ will be available to view from Saturday, the 11th of July at 5 pm, as part of the ‘Irish Talent: New Shorts Six’ programme and tickets for the screening will be limited to 400. Tickets are available from the Galway Film Fleadh website.

‘Drifting’ tells the story of Cian and Pat, best friends who have been joined at the hip since they were kids and have the run of their small town in the midlands. Cian is content to coast through a life of booze and casual hook-ups, while Pat has grown weary of his surroundings. The film takes place over 24 hours where Cian’s erratic behaviour pushes Pat to breaking point. The film is an exploration of the effects of emigrations and the unspoken tenderness in male friendship.

The short was filmed in Longford last year with assistance from Creative Ireland Longford and was produced by Longford natives Chris Higgins, Tomás Devaney and Jason Gaynor. The film was shot by award-winning cinematographer Simon Crowe.

13

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

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VW Golf TDI 5Dr €21,950 VW Golf 1.0 5DR Petrol €19,500 VW Golf TDI 5DR €20,500 VW Golf TDI 5DR €16,500 VW Golf TDI 5DR €13,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150HP C/L €28,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €24,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €21,000 VW Passat 2.0TDI 150HP H/L €22,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €16,500 VW T Roc 1.6 TDIDesign €24,500 VW T Roc 1.0 5DR Petrol Design €24,000 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP Allspace 7 Seater €37,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP Extras €31,000 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €27,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP A/T €30,500 Vw Tiguan 2.0TDI 150HP C/L A/T €24,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI “R” Line 4X4 A/T €22,500 VW Golf 1.6TDI €18,500 VW Jetta 2.0TDI C/L €18,500 Ford Fiesta 1.1 5DR €12,500 Ford Kugo A/T €24,500 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €14,500 Renault Megane 1.5DSL €16,500 VW Polo 1.0 5DR €13,000 Ford Kugo 1.5DSL 5 Seater Crew Cab €11,950 + VAT Hyundai I40 1.7DSL €18,000 VW Jetta 2.0TDI C/L A/T €13,950 Hyundai Tuscon 1.7DSL €20,450 VW Caddy Maxi Life DSL 7 Seater A/T €19,500 Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab €22,500 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL ST line €13,500 Hyundai Tuscon 1.7DSL €21,000 Citroen Grand Scenic 7 Seater €13,500 Mazda 2 1.5 Petrol €12,950 VW Polo 1.4TDI €12,450 Toyota Avensis 1.6DSL Estate €14,500 Ford Mondeo 1.5DSL €15,000 Opel Insignia 1.6DSL 138HP Extras (25Kms) €14,500

Year 161 161 161 162 161 161 161 152 151 2015 2014 2014 2014 141 2013

Make & Model VW Golf 1.6 DSL 5Dr VW Golf 1.6TDI Van Mazda 6 2.2DSL VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150BHP VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports Leather VW Caddy Maxi Life DSL 7 Seater Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab Mitsubishi L200 Crew cab VW Jetta 1.6TDI C/L VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L Hyundai I40 1.7DSL VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L Mazda CX5 2.2DSL A/T Audi A4 2.0DSL SE VW Passat 1.6TDI H/L

Price €13,950 €10,500 + VAT €14,950 €13,500 €18,500 €16,500 €18,500 €16,500 €13,000 €14,500 €12,500 €11,950 €14,500 €14,500 €10,500

COMMERCIAL RANGE 171 152 192 191 181 172 161 192 191 191 181 181 171 161 141 131 2011 2008 191 171 161 151 2012 2010 171 151 2009

VW Amarok V6 Automatic Extras €28,500 + VAT VW Amarok 2.0TDI 4 Motion €16,500 + VAT VW Caddy 2.0TDI 150HP €15,855 + VAT VW Caddy 2.0TDI 150HP €12,750 + VAT VW Caddy 2.0TDI Trendline Automatic €15,000 VW Caddy TDI 102HP €13,000 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €12,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB €23,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP SWB €23,600 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 150HP €25,000 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 150HP LWB €20,750 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €19,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 4X4 €18,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB €18,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI €12,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €10,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €9,500 VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB €6,500 VW Crafter 2.5Ton 140HP MWB €27,500 + VAT VW Crafter MWB €17,500 + VAT VW Crafter MWB €15,000 + VAT VW Crafter MWB €11,000 + VAT VW Crafter LWB €8,500 + VAT VW Crafter LWB €7,500 + VAT VW Shuttle 9 Seater €28,500 VW Shuttle LWB 9 Seater €21,000 VW Shuttle 9 Seater Bus €7,500

GOLF VANS 181 161 151 142

VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.6TDI

€17,500 €10,170 + VAT €9,350 + VAT €8,540+ VAT

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14

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

Loughglynn hosts a poignant 40

th

< SEAMUS DUKE

The shocking events of the 7th of July 1980, when Gardaí John Morley and Henry Byrne were shot dead at Shannon’s Cross outside Loughglynn after a bank raid at the Bank of Ireland in Ballaghaderreen, were recalled at a special memorial ceremony held on Tuesday at the location where the tragedy happened.

A crowd of over 300 people attended this 40th anniversary event. Those present included

members of the Morley and Byrne families, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, Bishop of Elphin Kevin D2oran, Roscommon County Council CE Eugene Cummins, senior gardaí, and representatives of Roscommon and Mayo County Councils and Roscommon and Mayo GAA, the Red Cross and the Civil Defence. Representatives of the family of the late Detective Garda Colm Horkan, who was shot dead in Castlerea last month, were also present.

Frances Morley, wife of the late Detective Garda John Morley, with her extended family at a commemoration ceremony to honour the memory of Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn on Tuesday. Picture: Michael McCormack

Anne Byrne, wife of the late Garda Henry Byrne, with her extended family at a commemoration ceremony to honour the memory of Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn on Tuesday. Picture: Michael McCormack

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Frances Morley, wife of the late Detective Garda John Morley, speaking to Marty Horkan, father of the late Detective Garda Colm Horkan and Anne Byrne, wife of the late Garda Henry Byrne speaking to Dermot Horkan, brother of the late Detective Garda Colm Horkan at a commemoration ceremony to honour the memory of Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn on Tuesday.

Picture: Michael McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

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anniversary tribute to slain Gardaí Following the official blessing by local parish priest Fr. Liam Devine, wreaths were laid at the monument to the two men by members of both families, the Garda Commissioner and Roscommon and Mayo GAA. Addressing the crowd, Garda Commissioner Harris stressed that it was very important that the memory of Detective Garda John Morley and Garda Henry Byrne was honoured.

“The two men showed bravery and courage as they protected the community, their colleagues and the State. We also remember today the late Sergeant Mick O’Malley and Garda Derek O’Kelly who were with the two men on that fateful day.

“Gardaí keep people safe every day, but there are times when they put themselves at extraordinary risk in the exercise of their duty, and that is the definition of courage.

“It is a heavy burden for them to carry and an even heavier burden for the families of our fallen colleagues. Tragically we have had to face that reality once again in the past month with the tragic killing of Detective Colm Horkan and we also remember him and his family today.

“The memorial committee who are responsible for the monument here and the book they published three years ago have done superb work.

It has taken us behind the uniforms and helped to understand their impact as husbands, fathers, friends,

colleagues and members of the communities that they lived in.

“I want to thank the local community for their remembrance of the sacrifice made by Garda Henry Byrne and Garda John Morley, and I know that will endure for many generations” he concluded.

Paul Byrne (son of Garda Henry Byrne) spoke on behalf of the Byrne family and thanked the local community for their efforts in providing the memorial which was unveiled three years ago, and for organising the 40th anniversary event.

Shane Morley, speaking on behalf of the Morley family, paid tribute to the strength of character shown by his mother Frances over the years since the tragedy. He also paid a warm tribute to the local community in Loughglynn and the local organising committee for their work over the years.

Bishop Kevin Doran said that the Gardaí had given great service to the country since the foundation of the State. “The Gardaí have served the people of this country largely as an unarmed force and I have always admired that. The Gardaí are a community-based organisation and that is coming through again as both men (being) remembered here today were so well respected in their communities”.

Master of ceremonies was the chairperson of the local organising committee, Mr. Brendan Gordan.

Pictured, top left, Garda Superintendent John Lawless (Oran) and Garda Inspector Kieran Hanley (Knockcroghery); top right were Fionn Sweeney, Kevin Morley, Aiden Morley and Darragh Morley, grandsons of the late Detective Garda John Morley, and on right Frank and Hilda McNulty at a commemoration ceremony to honour the memory of Garda Henry Byrne and Detective Garda John Morley at Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn on Tuesday last. Pictures: Michael McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

Garda donates kidney to fiancée as transplant programme resumes It was a case of third time lucky when a 29-yearold Midlands Garda came to the rescue to give the ultimate pre-wedding gift to his ailing fiancée, a soon to be qualified art teacher, when he donated a kidney to her on Monday, 22nd of June.

The couple are sharing their good news to offer hope to the hundreds of other families with loved ones in organ failure on transplant waiting lists as the kidney transplant programme has resumed at Beaumont Hospital following its suspension in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Five years ago when Briona Reynolds discovered she had kidney disease, she could never have known that her boyfriend, Shane Hunter, from Athlone, would ultimately give her the gift of life.

Briona no longer has to undergo three times weekly haemodialysis treatment at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Tullamore. The couple can now look forward to a bright future together as they are now recovering following their successful living donor transplant operations at the home they share in Briona’s native Tubber in Co. Offaly. They are now turning their attention to planning for their wedding in July 2021 at the nearby Mount Druid.

Beaumont Hospital had already suspended transplant operations before the country went into lockdown on 27th of March – including Briona and Shane’s operations, scheduled to take place on 23rd of March. This would be their second disappointment, as a previous date for transplant (3rd of

February), had also been cancelled due to safety concerns as a result of Shane’s blood results showing irregularities at the time.

By February, Briona’s kidney function had almost fully declined and she then had no option but to commence haemodialysis treatment in order to keep her alive.

Speaking from his home, eleven days post-surgery, Shane commented: “For the last number of years I’ve seen Briona struggle with the complications of having kidney failure and so when I was given the opportunity to get tested for kidney donation I was eager to help but also nervous that I might not be a match. Thankfully, both of us are doing great and recovering well”.

Briona said: “I was so grateful when both Shane and my mam went forward to be tested to be living donors knowing that not everyone gets this opportunity and many are reliant on the uncertainty of a deceased donor kidney becoming available.

I honestly don’t think it has fully sunk in yet that Shane has donated his kidney to me and I’ll never know how to fully thank him.

“I’d like to thank Shane’s parents, Norman and Sharon Hunter, who now live in Dysart, Co. Roscommon and my mam and dad, Gina and Frank Reynolds, for their loving support throughout my health journey”. * Organ Donor Cards can be obtained by phoning the Irish Kidney Association on 01 6205306 or Free text the word DONOR to 50050. Shane Hunter, from Athlone and Briona Reynolds.

The older people will tell you what a difference there is in the town now compared with fifty years ago Before his death in 1953, George N. Geraghty wrote extensively about his memories of life in Roscommon Town (and environs) in the early years of the 20th century…the Roscommon People is pleased to serialise these fascinating memories

ROSCOMMON AS IT WAS ~ George N Geraghty ~

School days The Ballroom was used as a Boys School for a good many years.

Prior to this the boys school was situated at the end of McDonnell’s Lane, (also known as Chapel Lane) in the ruins of the old Catholic Chapel. This was built in the Penal Days; it was built there because the people could not get any other site in the town.

The boys were removed from Chapel Lane to the Ballroom and from the Ballroom to the then new National Schools at the end of P.C. Mitchell’s yard.

I attended this school and my physical recollections of it are anything but cheerful. We had no steam-rolled roads in those days. The approach to the school from the Market Square in wintertime was covered with mud and the schoolroom inside was like a big barn. There were three open fireplaces along one side wall. Some days you might see a few sods of turf for a fire, and as for sanitary arrangements, they were as bad as could be – no water to flush and a rotten outlet to a filthy cesspool. Whoever was responsible for selecting the site had something to account for.

Mr Thomas Larkin was then principal teacher. He has long since retired. And those of us who knew what conditions he had to contend with often wonder how he managed to turn out so many brilliant students, who in after years occupied some of the best positions in the ecclesiastical, professional and commercial world. ‘Tom’ Larkin is still in good health, and good luck to him!

I hope the boys attending the C.B. Schools will appreciate the comfort they are afforded in the present lovely schools.

Harrison Memorial Hall The Harrison Hall was formerly Roscommon’s Court House.

When the present Court House was built the parish priest got possession of the old Court House and it became the parish church and so it remained a church, until the late Monsignor McLough-

Pictured is Main Street, Roscommon.

Picture courtesy of Pat Hughes

lin conceived the idea of building a new church. Those who knew Monsignor McLoughlin with his big heart and his big mind were not surprised when they heard that the plans for a splendid church were prepared. At first the people were asking why such a big church for Roscommon and where will the money come from to pay for the building? Well the Church was built and the money was found to pay for the building of it. But Roscommon people must never forget that the late Dean Cummins was responsible for collecting most of the money. He travelled North and South America, England, Wales and Scotland, and he never gave up this hard task until it could be said that he had accomplished what his former parish priest Monsignor McLoughlin set (out) to do for the people of Roscommon – that was to build and adorn a church which is one of the finest in Ireland.

When the Blessed Sacrament was transferred to the new church the work of removing the remains of two priests (Rev. Fr. Madden, P.P.

and Rev. Dr. Phillips, P.P.) was started. They were buried in front of the high altar and are now interred under the grotto at the back of the new church. The bell was then taken down from the old belfry and it now rings out the time from the clock in the tower of the new church. Some short time after, the stone cross that surmounted the dome of the old belfry fell on to the roof of the old church; it got held in the rafters and it is now set over the crown of the arch of the grotto at the entrance of the new church.

The high altar, which was a timber structure, was taken to Ballyleague (Lanesboro) Church.

The older people of Roscommon will tell you what a difference there is in the town now compared with fifty years ago. Today the town is clean and bright looking. The new buildings are up to date and it can compare well with any other Irish town of its size.

Now to my mind this change for the better was brought about through the building of the new church. The shadow of its splendid spire could no longer be cast down on lowly thatched cabins.

Something had to be done to bring the streets into keeping with the lovely church and so we have today a very clean town reflecting a glorious House of God. The same influence did its good work on the population of the town. As witness the congregations attending the devotions in the church, all well dressed and notice in the absence of crime in and around the town – all in strong contrast with the Roscommon of half a century ago.

Water Supply The laying of water supply to the town fulfilled a great need.

Heretofore the people had to depend on the town pumps. There were several pumps, one before and one behind the Harrison Hall; one at the end of Henry St., one in J. Caulfield’s yard, one in Luke Hayden’s yard, one in each of the old jails, one at the back of Jack Naughton’s and several others. Most of them went dry in summer, so donkey carts and barrels were used to bring the water from Carrowroe well and ‘Mike’ Monahan’s well. The members of the Old ‘Board of Guardians’ had many heated debates at their meetings before it was decided to proceed with the lying of the water supply and some very hard-fought elections took place over the same work.

(Series continues in coming weeks)

17

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Roscommon Town We are opening our doors again ...

Looking forward to welcoming you all back again ...

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL LOCAL The local paper

Newsround

Established: 1986

Main Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 662 5049 Open: 8 am-8 pm (Monday to Saturday) and 8.30 am to 7 pm on Sunday

See our re-vamped Stationary Section

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18

ChamberPeople

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

The local paper

Brick versus click: Why we should avoid Like most people, I’ve fully embraced technology. However, despite the fact that without any prior warning, the coronavirus pandemic forced many retailers and consumers alike to adapt their selling/purchasing habits – meaning a surge in transactions taking place online – I’m still championing the bricks and mortar shopping experience. Here’s why ... < MIRIAM KERINS

1

Reopening Roscommon: Pictured is Paddy Joe Burke giving Tom Sexton a haircut. Picture: Michael McCormack

There’s no better feeling than going into a boutique with your friends, spending time choosing different outfits, trying them on (once restrictions around this have been lifted), getting their opinions and afterwards, heading for a coffee and a chat regarding accessorising your new purchases. In short, I appreciate human interaction and I thrive on the whole physical aspect of perusing through rail after rail, and shelf after shelf of ‘stuff’.

I enjoy the browsing, the lingering and the singing along to those cheesy 80s tunes so necessary for the whole immersive experience!

2

Shopping online can often be confusing, especially if you’re someone who can’t make up your mind and rely heavily upon other buyers’ recommendations, etc. In addition, given the amount of online scams doing the rounds, isn’t it better to walk into a ‘bricks and mortar’ shop and buy in person from a local business owner who’ll help and advise you because they genuinely want to make sure your shopping experience is so positive that you’ll return?

3

The products, whatever they are, nearly always seem to look better, brighter and of superior quality in the online picture than they do up close in real life.

Restaurant

Main Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 662 7665

Delighted to be welcoming all our customers back in our restaurant – TAKE-AWAY SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE –

19

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

ChamberPeople

Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Spend LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

The local paper

becoming victims of the ‘Amazon affect’ 4

It has been my experience, (when buying clothing), no matter what body shape you are, the online size chart is never going to work. Why? Because it’s never accurate and the online model looks nothing like you! This means returns are more than likely going to be an inevitable part of your shopping experience! How tedious is that? I mean, who has time to wreck their heads with the whole ‘exchange and refunds’ process? Not me! Besides, how can you be sure if that pair of jeans is going to look fab on you if you don’t try them on and get the advice of your friends and the sales person? This is why the interactive overall

face-to-face, personal opinion of ‘no, that top doesn’t go with that skirt – but we have one that’s just perfect, and it’s in your size, here try it on,’ is so undeniably important. It’s called customer service, folks!

5

Ever been asked to pay premium price for ‘next day delivery’ only to receive your item a week later?

Me too. It’s for this reason I believe nothing compares to the physical act of walking into a shop, seeing the item you want, paying for it and taking it home there and then. No time wasting, no waiting, no handling and postage fees and, most importantly, no crying

MOLLOY’S MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512. E. dnmolloymainstreet@eircom.net

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over damaged packages, etc. In short, the personal, walk-in, face-to-face shopping experience is a no-brainer!

When it all comes down to it, the tactile nature of the ‘bricks and mortar’ shopping encounter versus the online click will, for me, always win hands down.

Why? Because the knowledge, the experience, the smile and the customer service provided by the local management and staff of our wonderfully resilient Roscommon retailers is quintessentially customer-focused. This means the welcome and the service they proRoscommon: Catherine Hanly, Margo Smolinska and Liosa Kilcline vide to you will always be far superior Reopening pictured at work in Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacy, Roscommon. Picture: Michael to that of any of their online rivals!

McCormack

# Shop local! # Resilient Ros! A Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People initiative To avail of special discounted advertising rates for Roscommon Chamber members, and inclusion in this section, call the Roscommon People on 086 805 4227 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The Roscommon People newspaper and Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, as part of our joint response to the Covid-19 crisis, is appealing to the public to continue to exclusively shop locally as the huge challenge of mounting an economic recovery gets underway.

Paul Healy, Editor of the Roscommon People: “It’s great to see so many businesses reopening. Here at the Roscommon People, we want to wish the very best to all involved. And we’re urging our thousands of readers to continue to support local businesses and service providers by shopping locally”.

Brendan Allen (Chamber President): “Local

businesses need your support more than ever. Local businesses, most of which have been closed for months – an unprecedented situation for them – are desperately trying to salvage and maintain employment levels.

Every euro spent locally will help keep people in employment.

“The members of Roscommon Chamber – and all local businesses who are not members are invited to join us now – are deeply grateful to our local customers for their support. Key to our recovery will be Roscommon’s great community spirit. We can do this – together. Adhering to a ‘shop local’ philosophy will be key. Let’s get Roscommon moving again!”

ABBEYTOWN, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 6625940. Email: info@molloysbakery.ie • Website: : www.molloysbakery.ie

COFFEE SHOP RE-OPENING MONDAY 13th JULY

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You can book a table in advance by calling – 090 66 25940 Opening Hours subject to change

Ask about our Daily Special’s with Great Taste and Great Value…

20

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday, 12 July 2020 Today’s readings, like last week’s, ask us to meditate on Israel’s response to God’s Word – and our own.

Why do some hear the word of the kingdom, yet fail to accept it as a call to conversion and faith in Jesus? That question underlies today’s Gospel, especially.

Again we see, as we did last week, that the kingdom’s mysteries are unfolded to those who open their hearts, making of them a rich soil in which the Word can grow and bear fruit.

As we sing in today’s Psalm, in Jesus, God’s Word has visited our land, to water the stony earth of our hearts with the living waters of the Spirit (see John 7:38; Revelation 22:1).

The firstfruit of the Word is the Spirit of love and adoption poured into our hearts in Baptism, making us children of God, as Paul reminds us in today’s Epistle (see Romans 5:5; 8:15-16). In this, we are made a “new creation” (see 2 Corinthians 5:17), the firstfruits of a new heaven and a new earth (see 2 Peter 3:13).

Since the first humans rejected God’s Word, creation has been enslaved to futility (see Genesis 3:17– 19; 5:29). But God’s Word does not go forth only to return to Him void, as we hear in today’s First Reading.

His Word awaits our response. We must show ourselves to be children of that Word. We must allow that Word to accomplish God’s will in our lives. As Jesus warns today, we must take care lest the devil steal it away or lest it be choked by worldly concerns.

In the Eucharist, the Word gives Himself to us as bread to eat. He does so that we might be made fertile, yielding fruits of holiness.

And we await the crowning of the year, the great harvest of the Lord’s Day (see Mark 4:29; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 1:10) – when His Word will have achieved the end for which it was sent.

– Scott Hahn Ph.D., wwwsalvationhistory (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Back on the sports beat...

Wind, rain or anything else couldn’t stop our man Frank from getting down to pitch-side as some local sporting action resumed…

It’s Sunday morning, and as I awake from my alcohol-free slumber I can hear the wind howling round the back of the house and the rain banging off the windows of the bedroom. A few weeks ago I told you how my fairly big dog run – three metres by three metres of some

kind of metal – had proven no match for the wind at that time, and had taken off (as my neighbour told me later) like a paper bag, crossed the busy Creggs to Glinsk road, and ended up in bits on top of a roadside hedge.

Thank God it had not hit any person, car, tractor or bicycle as it flew through the air, so the first thought that came into my head was to check up on the replacement model and see was it still where it should be. I was happy enough to see it still standing out the back, although the canvas-type roof had got a bit loose. But even though it was flapping like an agitated cock in the wind, it was still in position and a couple of cable

ties and a bit of rope had it back together again as good (well, nearly) as new.

We had learned a little bit from the first experience, and had attached a few six-inch blocks plus a few other miscellaneous weights to the structure, so in truth it would have been a big disappointment if it had once again taken to the airways. Anyway, all was well, and I could now concentrate on the big event that was due to take place later in the afternoon.

After nearly four months of total inactivity on every sporting front, Gaelic football was back and at 2 pm Creggs were due to play St. Brendan’s, Ballygar/Newbridge in a challenge

match.

Now I am the first to admit that normally, while I would probably go to such a game, it wouldn’t excite me that much.

But on Sunday, I could hardly wait to get to the pitch and see the action. As it turned out, despite occasional torrential rain and strong winds, we were treated to a very entertaining, competitive match that I’m told Creggs won by a single point.

My personal calculator must have been slightly off, as I had it down as a drawn game.

Anyway, signs that we had had such a long lay-off was the fact that a match that would usually only draw a few hardy souls and a dog attracted a great crowd

(properly social distancing) and I have to say that it was great to have it back. On Wednesday evening we have another challenge, this time against our near-neighbours Fuerty, and I am already looking forward to that.

As I’ve said before in this column, it’s hard to beat following your local team. Whether it’s football, hurling, rugby, soccer or tiddlywinks, it brings out all the tribal instincts that spend a lot of time hidden, (which mightn’t be a bad thing) and gives us more fun and craic than maybe we’ve realised. So here’s to the resumption of all competitive sports. I can’t wait.

Leave it to Mr O’Brien

Aidan O’Brien

I am the first to admit that I know nothing at all about horse racing, but not even a caveman (if they still exist) could be oblivious to the amazing success story that is Aidan O’Brien and his ever more successful dynasty. That’s a dynasty which includes his four children, all of whom were jockeys before the two lads, Joseph and Donnacha, followed their father into the world of racehorse training.

For years I thought Aidan was the son of the famous Vincent O’Brien, whose Ballydoyle Stables he now operates from, but they are no relation at all. Aidan O’Brien’s father Denis was a farmer and small-scale horse trainer in Co. Wexford, and the present all-conquering trainer learned his trade at PJ Finn’s stables in Co. Kildare, and later at Jim Bolger’s in Co. Carlow. He started training in 1993, and this weekend he saw his horses win both the Oaks

Memories of Glinsk Song Contest…

It’s funny how people and their tastes change through the years and in my case the television show Killinascully is a prime example. Between 2004 and 2008 the Pat Shortt creation was a regular feature on our television screens, and to tell the truth – although there were more than thirty episodes, along with a number of Christmas specials – for some reason I never warmed to the show at all.

I would say that I only ever bothered to have a look at a handful of the original shows, so I am pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying the present re-runs so much, and I actually look forward to 8 pm on Sunday evenings when Dan, Dieter, Timmy, Jimmy, Willie Power, Pa Connors and all the rest of the characters appear in our sitting rooms with the sight of a live pub (Jacksie’s) bringing back fond memories of life before lockdown.

However, it was what happened after Killinascully last Sunday that caught my attention, when Pat Shortt’s look at music on the telly was on, and lo and behold there

was the Glinsk Song Contest with Marty Ward being interviewed at length and James Shevlin singing his own composition about going home to Glinsk.

It’s hard to believe that for 25 years in a tiny rural East Galway village one of the biggest, if not the biggest, song contests in the country was taking place, with famous songwriting names like Charlie McGettigan, Denis Allen and Niall Toner taking the honours through the years, while Una Healy of The Saturdays’ fame was successful there on two occasions.

I have to say it was great to see the piece about the song contest from the village of Glinsk, a place that has always had a wonderful community spirit. It is a pity it came to an end in 2012. Sadly, as a budding songwriter (I never actually budded), I put in a couple of what I thought were really wonderful entries, but I am still waiting for my call-up. I don’t suppose I’ll hear from them now.

and the Derby at Epsom. His son Donnacha trained the winner of the French Oaks in Chantilly, and while all that was taking place the family still managed to win two races here at home in Ireland.

Between the three big winners the O’Briens collected more than one and a half million euro in prizemoney, and it is amazing that when we talk of all the massive world ranked sportspeople that Ireland has, no one ever mentions Aidan O’Brien.

We hear of Rory, McGregor, Katie, and Bertram Allen, but seldom of O’Brien; surely the young lad who grew up on a small farm in rural Co. Wexford deserves to be mentioned in the same league as such exalted company. He seems to be such a humble, unassuming man, and what he has already achieved is almost unbelievable. Well done Aidan, and all your family…you are some credit to this island of ours.

And finally…

Finally for this week, I have to admit that I am getting fed up with the way Dublin dictates everything that happens in Ireland.

The news today that the way hundreds of inconsiderate fools congregated with no social distancing in Temple Bar and its surrounds over the weekend could have an effect on pubs around the rest of the country reopening is both appalling and totally unfair.

By all means close the pubs that made no effort to control their clients, but why should the rest of us pay for the reckless actions of a few dunderheads?

‘Till next week, bye for now

21

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

NewsPeople

Strokestown Courthouse, burned in 1920.

Plaque in memory of James Daly at St Croan’s Church Ballymoe

War of Independence in Roscommon – and Connacht Rangers mutiny 100 years ago

James Joseph Daly, Ballymoe executed for his part in the Connacht Rangers Mutiny 1920

By the summer of 1920, the War of Independence had escalated at both local and national level, with ambushes and burnings. The unsavoury behaviour of Black and Tan/Crown forces in Ireland had repercussions that gained an international dimension when it sparked off a mutiny in India, while at home in Roscommon the RIC suffered their first casualty of the war in the county.

In the spring of 1920, the British government had introduced a new force to Ireland. This force was recruited to augment the Royal Irish Constabulary, which at that stage had come under severe pressure because of the retirements and resignations of many of its members and also due to a fall-off in recruitment.

The new force was officially called the RIC Special Reserve, but they were to become known in Ireland as the infamous ‘Black and Tans’. The unusual name for the hastily recruited special reserve came about because its members were attired in a hybrid outfit of dark police uniforms and army khaki.

The Black and Tans were mainly recruited from the thousands of soldiers that were demobilised after the Great War in Europe and were a battlehardened and quite aggressive group, quickly making a name for themselves for their violence and brutality. For the duration of the troubles the Black and Tans were guilty of many cold-blooded murders in Ireland.

County Roscommon also suffered the wrath of the Black and Tans, as will be recounted in further articles of this series. In July 1920, the RIC was again bolstered by yet another new force known as the Auxiliary Division of the RIC. They were also recruited from exBritish army WW 1 veterans and they were made up of the officer corp. The Auxiliaries (or ‘Auxies’) were a feared force and were noted for their extreme brutality and violence.

Here we will digress a little from the local scene to illustrate how the actions of the Black and Tans had far-reaching

Black and Tans searching civilians

effects in far-off places. By the summer of 1920, reports of Black and Tan atrocities in Ireland began to trickle to the outside world.

News of the violence even travelled as far as the Indian Punjab where a British army regiment, the Connacht Rangers, were stationed. The regiment’s members were mostly recruited from counties in the west of Ireland. When news of the brutality at home reached the ears of Irishmen serving in the British army in India, it propelled some of them to action. As a result of hearing of the atrocities back at home, a few members of the regiment organised a protest in India by refusing to obey orders from their superior officers.

On 28th of June 1920, five men from C Company of the first battalion based at Wellington Barracks Jalandhar in the Punjab instigated the protest against

martial law in Ireland. The mutiny spread to the city of Solon where the rangers were also stationed. When the authorities at Solon learned of the mutiny they placed all rifles under lock and key in the armoury.

On 1st of July (just one hundred years ago last week) a group of fifty mutineers armed with bayonets attempted to break into the British army weapons store at Solon. The soldier who led the attack was a man called James Joseph Daly who was born in Ballymoe in the parish of St. Croan’s on the Roscommon/Galway border. His family later moved to Westmeath. British troops opened fire on the mutineers, killing two and wounding others. After a few days, outnumbered and overpowered, Daly and his men were forced to surrender.

The protest in India led to the ar-

rest and court-martial of many of the mutineers and harsh sentences being carried out. Fourteen men were sentenced to death, but the only person executed was James Daly, who was considered to be the ringleader of the mutiny. James Daly was executed by firing squad in Dagshai Prison in northern India on the morning of 2nd of November 1920 and his body was buried in the prison yard. He was just a month short of his 21st birthday. Fifty years later, on November 1 1970, Daly’s remains were repatriated from India to Tyrellpass, Co. Westmeath, where his family had settled. Six thousand people attended the funeral and the Tricolour that draped his coffin was the same flag that had draped the coffin of Terence MacSwiney in 1920. After James Daly’s remains were laid to rest, an IRA firing party delivered a final salute by firing a volley of shots over his grave.

Meanwhile, back in Roscommon, the summer months saw an upsurge in activities and the war was moving up a gear. RIC men had come under fire in Kilglass and Curraghroe, but there were no casualties. However, on 12th of July, the first police casualty in County Roscommon occurred when an ambush took place at Moneen Cross about three miles from Ballyleague on the road to Roscommon town. Men of the third Battalion South Roscommon Brigade lay in wait for the two-man bicycle patrol that was approaching from Lanesborough.

The volunteers thought the two police would surrender their weapons without a struggle, but after being called on to halt the RIC men pedalled faster to get away. The attackers fired on them and the result of the clash was one RIC man killed and the other escaping without injury. Rifles and revolvers were captured.

Also during July, volunteers from the third Battalion North Roscommon Brigade decided to burn the courthouse in Strokestown, using petrol and paraf-

fin as combustibles. Petrol at that time was an uncommon substance and the men were not familiar with its use. It was even ordered by IRA headquarters that petrol, due to its highly explosive nature, was not to be used by volunteers in their operations. However, in the Strokestown operation, the floors of the courthouse were saturated with the stuff.

Then someone struck a match prematurely and the entire interior of the building became a fireball. The four men inside tried frantically to escape by exiting the ground floor and scaling the ladder to get to the street outside.

They managed to escape the inferno but not without suffering severe burns to their hands and faces. Three of the injured were initially spirited to the Strokestown Infirmary where local doctors attended to them.

Later, two of the men had to be brought to Dublin for skin grafts and over a period of time and with special treatment all of the injured men fully recovered from their burns. Subsequently, one of the courthouse attackers was charged with the arson attack and received a ten-year jail sentence. He was released after the truce.

The month of August saw further attacks on the RIC. The barracks at Loughglynn, which had been occupied

by British army and police, was evacuated when they moved to the Castlerea fortress.

An order for the destruction of the building was given to the local volunteers, and as was the common practice, the building was burned on the night after the evacuation. At the end of August volunteers from the fourth Battalion South Roscommon Brigade set up an ambush at Knockcroghery rail crossing. They opened fire on a twoman RIC bicycle patrol that was coming from the Athlone direction, killing one member. The other constable escaped without injury.

More articles later (An Staraí Áitiúil)

22

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

FarmingPeople

Factories have to ‘stop driving farmers out of business’ IFA President Tim Cullinan says factories have to “stop driving farmers out of business” and give an immediate beef price increase.

“The market has clearly improved, yet factories continue to try and hold back the price. The factories need to increase prices immediately,” he said.

IFA National Livestock Chairperson Brendan Golden said that all of the market facts point to a rising market. He said it is very clear the factories can pay more.

“We have been in contact with some of the main processors this week and we made it very clear to them that they can’t hold back on a price increase any longer”.

Lamb prices rising as supplies tighten – IFA

Keep your dog on a lead or face the consequences – IFA IFA Sean Dennehy said Garda statistics showing nearly 50 dog attacks on sheep since March proves that dog owners continue to act in an irresponsible manner.

“These statistics highlight two clear issues – irresponsible dog ownership and the magnitude of the problem of dog attacks on sheep”.

Despite repeated appeals, he said dog owners refuse to take responsibility for their pets.

“IFA has a detailed protocol

on this issue. Farmers are fed up with the casual approach of some dog owners who will not accept the damage their pets can inflict on sheep,” he said.

“While we encourage flock owners to report attacks, this may not even be the full picture. The injuries inflicted on sheep are horrific and farmers may be too upset or traumatised to report to the Gardaí what has happened,” he said.

Sean Dennehy reminded dog

owners that sheep farmers are entitled under law to defend their livestock and if their flock is threatened, the law does allow them to shoot the dog.

IFA has repeatedly asked the Government to put serious resources into a single database on microchipping and an adequate dog warden service, but it hasn’t happened.

“We will be making fresh proposal to the new Government and expect to see some action in this area” he said.

Dry cows, heifers and bullocks, Friday, 3rd of July 2020: There was a good-sized sale for the time of year with a strong trade for all classes. Again this week, online bidding proved very popular with both buyers and sellers.

Bullocks fetched from an average of €2.12 per kilo up to €2.84 per kilo. Heifers

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

SALE ON FRIDAY Friday, 10th of July at 12 noon – 61st Anniversary Sale for bullocks, heifers and dry cows.

Intake from 7.30 am up to 9.30 am. Viewing by appointment from 10.15 pm to 11.45 pm.

Limited access to the ring

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

TEL: (090) 96 88606

(090) 96 88830

(090) 96 87651

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

Friday July 10th @ 12 Noon

61st Anniversary Special Sale for Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows Yard opens at 7.30 a.m. All cattle must be penned by 9 a.m.

2 Rings in operation – with online bidding in both rings -----------------------

Tuesday July 14th @ 4 p.m.

61st Anniversary Special Sale of Weanlings

Yard opens at 12 Noon All cattle must be penned by 1 p.m Included in sale 45 Top quality Char & Lim Bulls & Heifers born in 2020 – 350 to 400 kgs Also 9 Cows with Calves at foot -----------------------

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday 9th July -----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Yard open at 8.30 a.m. All stock must be penned by 10 a.m.

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

Saturday July 11th @ 1 p.m.

Irish Vendeen Sheep Society Premier Sale - Rams & Ewes

Please note that online bidding facility is available for this sale --------------------

PLEASE NOTE

All animals must be pre-booked for sales – Buyers must register for viewing Limited Access to Sales Ring for Buyers only Cattle may also be purchased online – by downloading the LSL App or livestock-live.com Please contact the Mart if you require any assistance with the setting up of the App

MART WATCH averaged from €2.24 per kilo up to €2.73 per kilo while dry cows made from an average of €1.69 per kilo up to €1.98 per kilo.

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Photos on our website/face book page Also Suckler Cows

IFA National Sheep Chairperson Sean Dennehy said lamb prices are rising as factories struggle to get supplies to meet strong demand.

“Factories and agents would bite the hand off you to get lambs this week. Prices of €5.60/kg have been paid and farmers are holding out for more.

“The facts are factories cannot get lambs at their low quoted prices and are having to pay a lot more, up to 30c to 40c/kg in places”.

Sean Dennehy said lambs are very scarce in some factory lairages this week.

“Weekly disposals have been high and a lot of lambs have moved. Nationally the kill is up 63,911 and the spring lamb kill is 45,182 ahead of last year”.

Roscommon Mart Report

(Proudly serving farmers for over 60 years)

for buyers only. Also online bidding facility with LSL. Gates close at 10 am.

Dry cows ranged from €1.69 per kilo up to €1.98 per kilo.

Sample prices: Char X 885 kgs €1530, Lim X 740 kgs €1470, Lim lx 810 kgs €1390, Char X 775 kgs €1360, Char X 785 kgs €1340, Lim X 680 kgs €1310, Simm X 740 kgs €1290, Char X 680 kgs €1240, Simm X 635 kgs €1180, AAX 660 kgs €1200, Simm X 635 kgs €1180, Char X 490 kgs €960.

Heifers ranged from €2.24 per kilo up to €2.73 per kilo.

Sample prices: Char X 660 kgs €1700, Char X 730 kgs €1520, Lim X 640 kgs €1450, Char X 590 kgs €1380, Lim X 545 kgs €1360, Char X 460 kgs €1120, Char X 420 kgs €1080, Lim X 455 kgs €1060, Char X 395 kgs €980, Char X 410 kgs €1020, Char X 415 kgs €1030, Char X 355 kgs €960.

Bullocks ranged from €2.12 per kilo up to €2.84 per kilo.

Sample prices: Char X 695 kgs €1570, Char X 655 kgs €1480, Char X 625 kgs €1470, Char X 620 kgs €1420, Lim X 590 kgs €1390, 3 Char X 418 kgs €1190, BBX 570 kgs €1310, 2 Lim X 565 kgs €1290, 2 Char X 347 kgs €950, Lim X 375 kgs €880, Char X 470 kgs €1080, Lim X 600 kgs €1360.

SHEEP SALE Sheep Sale, Wednesday, 8th of July 2020: There were increased numbers on offer this week with an improved trade in particular for store lambs.

Spring lambs made up to €118 for 47.60 kgs. Stag ewes made from €65 up to €126 per head. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Our next Sheep Sale is next Wednesday, 15th of July. Sheep to be penned by 10 am on day of sale.

Cast ewes made from €65 to €126 per lot.

Castlerea Mart Report There were 430 cattle on offer at Castlerea Mart on Thursday last and a very strong trade prevailed for all categories of stock on offer.

Smaller store cattle have attracted price increases in the last week with increased demand on offer both from the ringside and online. Dry cows and breeding stock reported good clearances on the day while the quality store bullock and heifers have featured price improvement also.

Sample prices – bullocks: Ch 465kgs €1100, Lm 360kgs €930, Lm 430kgs €1020, Lm 505kgs €1270, Lm 585kgs €1320, Lm 670kgs €1490.

Heifers: Lm 370kgs €1070, Sax 370kgs €1020, Lm 370kgs €1000, AA 495kgs €1160, Lm 480kgs €1140, AAx 760kgs €1550, AA 575kgs €1240, Lm 520kgs €1200.

Dry cows: Lm 795kgs €1570, Lm 720kgs €1520, Lm 730kgs €1380, Six 685kgs €1170, BA 690kgs €1090.

Cows with calves at foot made from €970 to €2060 per head.

Calves/runners: Calves made from €205 to €340 with runners making from €400 to €700.

Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs €770, Ch 265kgs €730, Lm 250kgs €630, Lm 420kgs €960, Lm 440kgs €990, Ch 455kgs €1110.

Weanling heifers: Chx 270kgs €810, Lm 290kgs €740, Lm 340kg €1010, Ch 340kgs €920, Lm 395kgs €1050, Ch 260kgs €700.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday the 9th of July with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 - see Facebook or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS. • YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. • ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED. • ALL STOCK TO BE PENNED BY 10 A.M. • ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. LIVE AUCTION WILL TAKE PLACE AS WELL AS ON-LINE WITH MARTBIDS.IE

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Vist Our Website For Details.

23

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PropertyPeople

John Earley’s land sale of the week at Tulsk John Earley (FIPAV), of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of a prime roadside holding of lands containing approximately 15.25 acres located at Rathmoyle, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon for “a very satisfactory price”.

John described the property as a “prime quality parcel of lands located in a renowned farming district of Tulsk”. Solicitors with carriage of sale were Joan H. Devine & Co., Strokestown.

John 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 contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@propertypartners. ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

2, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon.

Quality Stonecourt Earley’s require agricultural unit available lands for sale following sales with Earley’s John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is this week offering new to the market a “self-advertising” commercial unit located at 2, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon.

John describes the property as “a primely located commercial unit of approximately 700 sq. ft. (formerly East West travel agents) located in the busy Stonecourt development on the Town Square and benefiting from ample free car parking fa-

cilities at the rear and on the Square. The said unit would suit various commercial pursuits due to its size and location and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers above €80,000 to sell.

BER: C2”.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Following on from a number of successful farm sales in the region over the past number of weeks, Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are now urgently seeking lands in all areas for cash clients and disappointed underbidders.

John Earley (FIPAV) commented: “We have experienced a busy period of farm sales over the past number of weeks with a good volume of

PROPERTY PARTNERS

agricultural properties being sold or reaching sale agreed status. We are now seeking lands in all areas for cash clients.

“We offer a comprehensive premarket analysis, valuation service, and one of the largest databases of potential purchasers in the region to our clients.

We advertise in all local and national media and include all our

ipav

property on three main websites to include www.daft.ie, www.propertypartners.ie and www.myhome. ie”.

For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie.

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

NEW TO THE MARKET

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

A PRIME ROADSIDE PARCEL OF LANDS CONTAINING APPROX. 20.8 ACRES located at

A PRIME 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX 1,800 Sq. Ft, STANDING ON APPROX. 3.26 ACRES OF LANDS located at CARROWMORE, KILTEEVAN, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 FY89.

POLLRANNY & DRISHAGHAUN WEST, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON

Price Guide: €90,000 the entire

(The said lands and residence can be sold independently should market interest dictate)

A most attractive holding of lands located in a renowned farming district close to Kilmurray church and Castleplunkett village. The sale of these said lands offers an excellent opportunity for local farmers to increase their existing holdings and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

A prime parcel of lands on which stands a 4 B/R residence in need of moderisation conveniently located just of the main Roscommon/Athone Route (N61) The said lands and residence can be sold independently should market interest dictate and are set out as follows: • Residence standing on approx. 0.6 of an acre – say €70,000. • Lands containing approx. 2.66 acres – say €20,000. The Auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale.

Legal: Roddy McCrann, Messers Thomas V McCrann & Son, Roscommon.

NEW TO THE MARKET

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

A MOST ATTRATCIVE 2 B/R SEMI-DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 750 SQ.FT located at

A PRIMELY LOCATED 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 1,350 SQ.FT located at “BEECHLAWN”, THE WALK ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 YY02.

2 ESSEX GROVE, OFF CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 RT91.

Price Guide: €115,000

A quality semi-detached bungalow residence offering spacious and mature gardens to front and rear located in a sought after residential area. The property has been carefully maintained and is presented for sale in good condition throughout within walking distance of the local shops, Roscommon town centre and all amenities. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: D1

Price Guide: €90,000 A most attractive 4 B/R bungalow residence located in a select residential area close to Roscommon town center. The said property offers spacious living accommodation throughout and stands on a generous site area.

The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries, viewings and all offers to sell. BER: D1.

Legal: Messers Peter H Jones & Co, Roscommon.

090 66 26925.

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

24

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PropertyPeople

Idyllic country living in Loughglynn An impressive three-bedroomed two-storey detached residence in the Aghaderry area of Loughglynn is on the market with Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke. This family home is beautifully presented throughout and is on the market with an asking price of €140,000.

Ideally located at Aghaderry just outside Loughglynn, this property is on a large site of circa one acre, with excellent views of surrounding countryside, (Eircode: F45H319).

The property consists of three large bright spacious double bedrooms (one with built-in wardrobes), and a fully tiled and fitted modern bathroom. The ground floor of the house features a fully tiled entrance hall. To the right of the hall is the beautiful large kitchen/ dining room with a fitted kitchen, tiled floor and solid fuel stove with back boiler. There is also a fully tiled and fitted utility to the rear with bathroom

(also fitted and tiled) just off. To the left of the entrance hall is a large living room with open fireplace and a real homely feel.

The property also features a large shed to the rear which would be ideal for a workshop, etc. Its gardens boasts mature flower beds surrounded by large ash and sycamore trees to the side and rear of the property. The property has a Building Energy Rating of C1.

This house is centrally located between the towns of Castlerea and Ballaghaderreen on the outskirts of Loughglynn, while Ireland Knock Airport in only a short distance away.

Loughglynn is surrounded by no less than six lakes and gets its name from one ‘Loch Glinne’, which is of great ornithotogical interest and is very important to wild fowl.

For further details or to arrange a viewing contact David at Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke, Goff St., Roscommon. €29,000

CO. ROSCOMMON

Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors

SHEEHAUN, CARRAGHROE, CO ROSCOMMON NEW TO THE MARKET

Main Street, Ballygar.

Tel 090 6624531 087 2786664 Email: moranandco.ie PSRA no. 001472

Garraun, Creggs

Killeroran Road, Ballygar

The property which requires some work has the potential to be a delightful home and is located just a short distance from Creggs. This is an opportunity not to be missed.

Location – Location – Location • Property requires refurbishment • Large Garden c. 0.75 acres Rare find so close to the town.

Bungalow For Sale

Call 090 662 7200

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Find out more at mysherryfitz.ie

CO. ROSCOMMON CURRY, BRIDESWELL, CO. ROSCOMMON

P.O.A. NEW TO THE MARKET

• 2 Bedroom cottage on c.1 acre close to the river Shannon.

• Hayshed and 2 Lean-to sheds on the property.

• Located 5 minutes drive from Lanesboro and Ballyleague.

• A great purchase for a DIY lover.

• Sitting at the foot of Sliabh Bawn in a wonderful rural setting.

BER : Exempt CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200

CO. ROSCOMMON

€75,000

BALLINLOUGH, CO. ROSCOMMON

Main Street, Ballygar

• Approximately 8.13 acres or thereabouts of good agricultural land.

• Located on the main street in Ballinlough town on the main route to the west.

• Conveniently located approximately 4 km from the village of Brideswell.

• Sitting on circa 0.75 acres of land with great potential for further development.

• A opportunity for adjoining neighbouring landowners to increase their existing holdings.

• On the main route to Knock Ireland International West Airport.

• Great potential with a large site to the rear.

• Immediate viewing and offers invited.

CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200

Semi-Detached Cottage

Prime Residential Investment Property

• A great purchase for a DIY lover.

BER : exempt CALL DAVID FLYNN : 090 6627200

It’s not just about property. It’s about people.

PSRA No. 001316

1 no. 2 Bed. Semi-Detached & 1 no. 3 Bed Semi-Detached This is an excellent investment opportunity.

Can be sold in one or two lots.

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY SERVICES

25

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence: 001350

l

PROPERTY SALES

l

LETTINGS l VALUATIONS

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 • www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET

Four Bedroom Residence at

Five Bedroom Residence at

MOTE PARK, ROSCOMMON F42 FK26

• Very attractive four bedroom two-storey residence in excellent condition boasting spacious living accommodation throughout • Located in much sought after residential area “Mote Park Demesne”, c. 2 miles from Roscommon Town • The residence stands on a c. 0.5 mature private site and has commanding views of the surrounding countryside • The auctioneer invites enquiries and offers for immediate sale To arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

NEW TO THE MARKET Residence on c. 15.4 Acres at

ARDOSLOUGH, GLENAMADDY, CO. GALWAY F45 DW68

FEAMORE, KILTOOM, CO. ROSCOMMON N37 PE00

• Attractive five bedroom detached country residence in excellent condition standing on large mature private grounds • Located in much sought after residential area, c. 5 miles from the Dublin to Galway Motorway and Athlone Town • Boasting spacious living accommodation throughout • With commanding views of surrounding countryside • Viewing comes highly recommended and is strictly by appointment only.

To arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

WANTED WANTED

Bungalows in ROSCOMMON TOWN for awaiting clients with funds in place

• Four bedrom residence on c. 15.4 Acres • Located c. 2.5 miles from Glenamaddy Town, just off the Kilkerrin Road • Residence in need of renovation • Extensive range of outbuildings adjacent To arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and bank holidays also accommodated

Call Ivan on 090 666 3700 ALL ENQUIRIES IN STRICTEST CONFIDENCE

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No: 003201

New to the Market: Carrawbawn Stud on c. 36 acres

CARROWEIGHTER, DONAMON, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 TX46

Prime 36 Acre Stud Farm with private accommodation located in the centre of Ireland, only 30 minutes from Athlone, offering excellent quality limestone lands set out in 11 grass paddocks and 6 horse walker together with 20 boxes and all ancillary facilities. Residential accommodation comprises imposing 3 bedroom farm house.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a state-of-the-art equine property which has been carefully developed by its present owners.

PRICE REGION: Offers in excess of €600,000.

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New to the Market: -

17 DUN ARD, KNOCKCROGHERY CO. ROSCOMMON F42 DY23

Spacious 4/5-bedroom two storey residence located in the picturesque village of Knockcroghery, located just 15 minutes to Athlone town centre.

The property is finished to a very high standard by its present owners with a host of extras including cobblelock drive, manicured grounds, water filtration system to name but a few.

Accommodation includes entrance hallway, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility and guest W.C., five bedrooms (Master ensuite) and family bathroom.

Price Region: €275,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New to the Market: -

BINMUCK, LECARROW CO. ROSCOMMON F42 E180

Stunning 4-bedroom dormer style residence situated on an elevated site with exceptional views of the surrounding countryside. Located in a quiet country setting yet only 10 minutes from Athlone Town Centre.

This residence comprises: entrance hallway, sitting room, open plan kitchen/dining room with conservatory off, utility with guest WC. There are 2 large bedrooms on the ground floor and a further 2 bedrooms on the first floor together with bathroom on both levels.

Price Region: €275,000.

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New to the Market: -

CAGGLE, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 HP78 Elegant 4 bedroomed residence offering circa 1700 sq. ft. on ground floor and a further 800 sq. ft. floored out accommodation on the first floor. c. 1.35 acre site with views over Lake Caggle.

Attractive feature cut stone walling to front together with maintenance free exterior boasts part brick finish. Spacious accommodation includes 4 bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility with WC and family bathroom. Outside, tarmacadam drive with impressive large mature garden area to front and rear.

Price Region: €249,950.

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

Lanesboro Road, Roscommon

‘Corriga’ – new to the market with Oates Auctioneers Oates Auctioneers are pleased to advise of ‘Corriga’, an execptional five-bedroomed detached family home for sale new to the market, standing on large private mature gardens within walking distance of Roscommon Town.

Located at Lanesboro Road, Roscommon (Eircode: F42 X018), it comprises of c. 4000 sq. ft. with an additional 1200 sq. ft. of garage/shed space on c. 2.5 acres site.

Spacious accommodation includes entrance hallway, kitchen, dining room, sitting room, living room, conservatory, office, utility, five large bedrooms, two ensuites, a family bathroom and a large balcony overlooking the front gardens. Price region: POA. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact the office on 090-6627878 or e-mail: info@oates.ie

Roscommon house prices fall by 6.6% In Q2 2020 the average house price in County Roscommon was €135,280, which is 6.6% lower than a year previously. Sale prices fell by an average of 3.3% in the year to June, according to the Daft.ie Housing Market Report, released this week.

The new monthly report gives key figures on the health of both sale and rental markets, with figures showing a 0.2% rise in rents nationwide in the year to June 2020. The average listed sale price nationwide in June was €253,868, while the average monthly listed rent was €1,402.

Most parts of the country show similar trends, with a modest annual fall in sale prices – ranging from 2.9% in Leinster to 4.9% in Munster – and largely stable rents. In Dublin, rents rose by 0.5% year-on-year, while in Leinster outside Dublin they rose by 1.2%. In Connacht and Ulster, however, rents are down 2% year-onyear, while sale prices are up modestly on average (by 0.7%).

Figures for the number of properties posted for sale or to rent during June indicate a sharp recovery in market activity in June, compared to April and May, particularly in the sales segment. There were over 5,200 properties listed for sale in June, compared to roughly 2,000 in both April and May. Whereas those two months had seen activity collapse by three-quarters, the number of homes advertised in June was just 15% lower than in the same month in 2019.

In the rental segment, there were 38% more homes advertised to rent in June 2020 than a year previously –

with Dublin driving this trend.

Commenting on the report, Ronan Lyons, economist at Trinity College Dublin and author of the Daft Report, said: “Market activity rebounded strongly in June, perhaps reflecting an element of pent-up demand carried over from April and May. This is particularly the case for sales, where over 5,200 homes were listed for sale during the month, compared to roughly 2,000 in both April and May. Nonetheless, the figure remains below the total for June 2019.

“In the rental segment, however, significantly more homes were listed in June this year than last.

The concern remains that policymakers see this as the underlying problem solved.

“While the new government may want to favour the construction of owner-occupied homes, the fundamental shortages are in the social and market rental segments and it is those segments that must be the focus for policymakers over the coming years”.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

PropertyPeople

Final offers now invited for quality family home

On the market with REA Seamus Carthy is Emlaghkeadue Lodge, a stunning four-bedroomed period family home with fine traditional stone outbuildings set on a mature 1.55 acre landscaped site. Majestically set amid beautiful gardens and woodlands, the property is encircled with rich history including beautiful walled gardens and a central courtyard separating this most select house from the very fine traditional stone outbuildings.

Located on the outskirts of the award-winning village of Castlecoote and formerly the hunting lodge to Castlecoote House, the said property also benefits from complete refurbishment, offering the character and traditions of the past whilst also offering a modern family home presented to the highest specification both internally and externally. Internally the property comprises of a large feature hallway, open plan kitchen and dining room, utility, a feature double height living room, sitting room, cloakroom and showerroom at ground floor with four bedrooms (one ensuite with family bathroom), mezzanine and showerroom at first floor.

Final offers are now invited for this most select property. Contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town today on 090-6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie.

NEW TO THE MARKET – FINAL OFFERS ON OR BEFORE 30th JULY

NEW TO THE MARKET

THINKING OF SELLING?

Galway Road, Roscommon Town, F42 XW96

Carrowbehy, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45 WA46

WE HAVE BUYERS!

A most select residential family home majestically set on a large mature 0.6 acre site with 3 No. outbuildings. In need of modernisation, an excellent opportunity now exists to buy a quality family home in the very best of locations. All offers are now invited above €150,000.

Guide Price: €150,000

SELLING PROPERTY 24HRS A DAY

Quality 4 Bedroom Detached Dormer Bungalow presented in excellent condition, set on a 0.5 Acre picturesque Site, offering Countryside living yet within close proximity to the Towns of Ballyhaunis, Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea. Seamus now invites immediate enquiries and offers for immediate sale.

Guide Price: €165,000

Personal – Qualified – Experienced

Contact: 090 66 30001 www.reacarthy.ie | info@reacarthy.ie

ONLINE AUCTION 30TH JULY 2020 DETACHED BUNGALOW ON C.11.86 ACRES

Gurteen, Williamstown, Co. Galway, F45 XD80

Unrivalled online auction platform for selling your property Check out BidNow.ie, securing excellent results for our clients.

ROSCOMMON TOWN

3 Bed Detached bungalow on c. 11.86 acres of good Agricultural land with associated farm outbuildings situated thereon. The said house is newly renovated, modernized, fully dry lined and heavily insulated. The land itself is considered good agricultural land and immediate enquiries advised Guide Price: €170,000

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Classifieds

Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

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

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

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

Department of Health Approved

Cloonchambers, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

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

CHIROPRACTOR

COUNSELLING

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

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

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

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

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

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

NO FIX NO FEE

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

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

Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

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

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

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:

Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

COUNSELLING

DRIVING LESSONS

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School

FARMING BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • 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 Reg No: EL000083

< ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: 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: Fullbred Aberdeen Angus Bull. Ready for service.

Tel. 086 0605050.

Telephone:

090 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs.

Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING

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

• 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.

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193 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

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

l

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

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: Modern 4-bedroom cottage to let beside River Suck, Athleague. All mod. cons. OFCH. References required. Tel. 086 8356280.

€4,200

< TO LET: 1-bedroom ground floor apartment to rent immediately. Close to Roscommon town. No texts please! Tel. 086 1581296.

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

H&S Adviser available for all your H&S needs

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Waldron Lawnmowers

Tel. 086 7866774 GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc.

Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428 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

Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults.

Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

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

Can we help you?

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

Risk Assessments & Safey Statements, etc.,

Tel. 086 8562040

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

(Close to Boyle and Carrick on Shannon areas).

Ideal for storing belongings for personal or business reasons. Short or long term contracts.

Keen rates. Available from late September 2020.

Tel. 087 6591787.

Evo Roofing & Guttering Experts CONNAUGHT AREA

Call on 091 734122 or 085 1240639

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

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.

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:

086 2437376

evoroofingandguttering.com

• All types of roof repairs • Gutter cleaning from €49 • PVC fitted • Roof moss removal • Chimney repairs • Power washing • Ridge Piping • Lead valley repair • New tiles • Quality work, guaranteed

No job too big or too small

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

< TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

PLANNINGS

Storage facility available in Ballyfarnon

USEFUL SERVICES

Farm, Factory, etc.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

USEFUL SERVICES

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 < GOOD QUALITY 10’x6’ loads of turf. Can be delivered. Also bags of turf. Tel. 086 3776948.

SITUATIONS VACANT < RAMUNE’S HAIR & BEAUTY: Fully-qualified hairdressers required for full-time and part-time work. Please contact Ramune on 085 1600663. < CHILDMINDER WANTED, max 4 days per week to mind 3 children ages 2,5,8 in minder or childrens home must drive as pick up from school a necessity.

Please contact Nichola on 0876674161. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to look after two children (1 & 3) in Four Roads/ Mount Talbot Area 4 days per week in Children’s own home. School Term only starting end of August.

Own car essential. For more information contact 086 3609008. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED for 1 child, (1-yearold), in minder’s own home.

School term only. Starting end of August. Fourmilehouse area. Tel. 086 8888492. < HONEST, RELIABLE person required to assist lady with shopping and light housework 1 to 2 days per week. Must be car owner and help with minimum personal hygiene. Frenchpark area. Te. 087 4574257. < KIND, RELIABLE carer required to care for elderly lady in lady’s own home in the Creggs/Athleague/Ballygar area. Applicant must be eligible for Carers Allowance, funded by Dept. of Social Protection. References required. Apply to PO Box no. 2019, c/o Roscommon People newspaper, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < CLEANER REQUIRED 3 evenings a week (Mon/ Weds/Fri) to clean busy dental surgery in Roscommon Town. Must have impeccable attention to detail, bring own equipment and have good references. Please call 085 2106998.

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Smyth, intend to apply for planning permission for development at this site at Sunset Cottage, Cloonfree, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42 YX92. The development will consist of the change of use from a Gym associated with an existing dwelling house to a bedroom.

Signed: Michael Smyth.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Breda Grenham, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect a dwellinghouse, garage, install a waste water treatment unit with soil polishing filter and to construct all ancillary site works to facilitate same at Cloonillan, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

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

SIGNED: Breda Grenham.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Paul Hynes and Rachel Mullen, hereby give notice that we applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to (i) demolish existing front and rear extensions (ii) to extend and renovate existing dwelling house and (iii) install a new septic tank system and percolation area and all associated site works at Leamore, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited, Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. Mobile:086 8551835 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, CARROLL CONSULTANCY, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Desmond Mullarkey for planning permission for development for construction of a silage walled slab along with all associated site works at Spring Gardens, Ballinlough, 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 opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, FERN Architectural Studio, intend to apply for permission on behalf of the Board of Management, for development at this site, Ballymurray National School, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the relocation and upgrade of the existing waste treatment system, car parking spaces, one direction driveway with set down area & footpaths, a new opening to the public road and ancillary works.

The development will also consist of the demolition of an existing concrete shelter.

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

SIGNED: Enda Fallon, FERN Architectural Studio (RIAI Registered Practice), Roscommon Phone (Enda): 089 4439458.info@ fern.ie, www.fern.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, D. Fallon, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Onagh, Taghmaconnell, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of construction of dwelling house & effluent treatment system, together with associated site works.

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

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

Signed: Michael Gillespie, Big Red Barn, PND Business Park, Lagcurragh, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Tel. 094 900 2931.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ciaran & Maryrose Walsh, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for Construction of a Dwelling House, Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, Connection to Services, Access onto the Public Road and associated site development works at Aghacarra Td, Corrigeenroe, Boyle, Co Roscommon.

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 the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority.

Signed: Michael Hennessy, Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd., Dorrary, Carrick on Shannon, Co Roscommon. Tel 086 1701549

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sarah Beirne and Patrick Kenny are applying to Roscommon Council for planning permission to construct dwelling house, domestic garage, and to connect to existing main sewer along with all ancillary site development works at Lisanahoon, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon 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 the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority.

Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd, Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0878228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie; Web:www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. B.M. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine.

Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. M.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past, I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication. Never known to fail. J.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past, I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days and promise publication. Never known to fail. L.M. A PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power.

O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times) Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (3 times). C.K.

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

FAMILYNOTICES

APPOINTMENTS 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.

KILMARTIN Joseph

TYRE FITTER / LIGHT MECHANIC WANTED Full-time position available in busy Roscommon town centre outlet for immediate start Forward C.V. to Roscommon Tyre Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon town.

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO ROSCOMMON

Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844

Curradrehid, Fourmilhouse, Co Roscommon Who died June 4th 2020

CHY 12629

Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

EARLY YEARS TEACHER FULL-TIME FIXED TERM CONTRACT ESSENTIAL CRITERIA: • Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE • Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times • Experience planning child-centred activities • Experience working as part of a team • Good oral and written communication • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours • Garda Vetting required DESIRABLE CRITERIA: • QQI/Fetac VI in ECCE or higher qualification/equivalent • Experience working with different ages of children from babies to toddlers, to preschool to after school • Strong Knowledge in High/Scope Curriculum & Síolta • Current First Aid Certificate, Children First Training, Manual Handling, and any other certificates relevant to Early Childhood Education and Care.

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

Canvassing will disqualify.

Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest and CV no later than Friday, 10 July 2020 5pm to: The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 Telephone: 090 662 9844; cuanbhride@outlook.com Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

As the sun sets and night falls and stars twinkle above.

We look for the one that sparkles brighter than them all.

We know that’s where you are, Thinking of you always, dad.

There are not words big enough. There is not a hug strong enough. There is not a smile wide enough.

All we can offer is thank you.

Thanks for all the thoughts prayers and acts of kindness.

• From neighbours and friends many offers of food and drink.

• From the beautiful bouquets sent to brighten our day.

• The many thank you cards, personalised notes and R.I.P messages.

• The astounding and overwhelming support by those who stood by us in grief as dad took his last journey from his home to a better life.

They have been a comfort to us during this difficult time; your kindness is appreciated and will not be forgotten.

From all the Kilmartin family.

Goodbyes are not forever Goodbyes are not the end.

They simply mean we miss you, Until we meet again.

Joes’ First Anniversary Mass will be offered in St Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse, Co Roscommon on Saturday 11th July at 7.00pm

Notice re.

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

or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon 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.

The local paper!

31

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Eamon

KELLY Elsie

McGARRELL Eithne

Pound Road, Ballygar.

(7th Anniversary) Died 8th July 2013

Tobberavaddy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (7th Anniversary away from home 15th July, 2020)

(née McDermott)

May the winds of heaven blow softly ...

And whisper in your ear How much we love and miss you And wish that you were here.

Sadly missed by your loving wife Anne, Daughter Leanne, Sons David, Alan, Eamon, Ivan & Ronan, Daughters-in-law and Grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 11th July 2020 at 7.30p.m. in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar

COYLE Thomas Sleaveen, Roscommon.

(11th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, who died on the 5th of July 2009

We know no day will ever pass, No wind will blow through mountain grass, No foot will tread on morning dew, That will not bring a thought of you.

Always loved and sadly missed by his wife Mary and loving family.

Rest in Peace Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday the 11th of July at 10am, which will be broadcast on Local Radio 105.9FM.

On this your seventh anniversary it is so hard to believe where that time has gone, from sunrise to sunset we miss you.

Memories can never be forgotten or erased from our minds and hearts, you are always with us in everything we do.

We must keep going and keep living in order to honour you for your life.

It is not easy and so many things remind us of you and your love, but we always try to be the best you wanted us to be.

Our memories of you will forever remain a blessing to all of us.

No one know how much we miss you, No one knows the bitter pain We have suffered since we lost you Life has never been the same.

In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweetly tender, fond and true.

There is not a day, dear Mam, That we do not think of you.

Also remembered and loved always, our dear father Pat, and our dear brothers, Frank and Paddy from the Kelly family.

Anniversary mass will be celebrated in Castlecoote Church on Sunday, 30th August, 2020

Late of Lucan, Co. Dublin and formerly Rahara, Co. Roscommon, (1st Anniversary) Who passed away on July 13th, 2019.

Remembered with Love

When tomorrow starts without me, And I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me.

I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too.

When tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, For every time you think of me, I’m right there, in your heart.

Loved and missed beyond words by her husband Eugene, children Karen, Gerard, Sandra and Marie, grandson Seán, brother Dermot and extended family and friends.

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

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

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.

MARTIN Niall

KELLY Bartley

New Ballagh, Knockcroghery (2nd Anniversary) Who died on 9th July, 2018

Northyard, Scramogue

July comes with sad regret It brings a day we will never forget.

You closed your eyes without goodbye Sweet memories of you will never die.

The hardest thing in life to bear Is to want your son when he’s not there With a broken heart we whisper low Rest now, Niall, We miss you so.

Fondly remembered and forever loved by your Mam and Dad, brothers and sister, extended family and friends.

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

Always loved and sadly missed by his wife Lily and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Sunday, 12th of July at 10.15am.

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

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

DALY Jason Cullen, Dysart (12th Anniversary)

KEARNEY Martina Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

No special day is needed For us to think of you You are always in our thoughts No matter what we do.

You’re more than a precious memory From whom we had to part You are the light that burns within us In the centre of our hearts.

Sadly missed by her husband Danny, daughter Rita, son David, son-in-law Robert, daughter-in-law Mary and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will be held in private on Monday, 13th July at 11am.in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

(Dromod) In loving memory of our dear son and brother Jason, who died on the 5th of July 2008 The month of July comes with regret.

The day, the month we will never forget.

Deep in our hearts Jason, you will always stay Loved and remembered every day.

God knows best why you had to go.

As for us, we will never know.

But we’ll meet one day to part no more, When God chooses to reunite us all at heaven’s door.

Always remembered and sadly missed by Dad, Mam, Michelle and Cathal.

Anniversary Mass on Friday, 10th July at 7.30pm. in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart.

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

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 Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

32

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

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

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

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

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Window and Door Repairs BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

• 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

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

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

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

087 2596055

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING PHONE: 086 8229606

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (inc. public sector) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (inc. competency-based) PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (e.g. retirement, new job, separation etc) * FIND YOURSELF STUCK IN A RUT? - (take back control and explore options!)

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS

EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE/MAKE A BETTER MORE INFORMED DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

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

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

While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

The Right Vet for your Pet

GlenamaddyVeterinary Clinic F45 F430 Office: 094 9659428 Mobile: 087 2543722 24 Hour Service

New clients welcome Established 1990

l l l l l

Vaccinations Pet Passports Pain Management Neutering & Dentals Digital X-ray

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

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

www.glenamaddyveterinaryclinic.ie

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

LOCKSMITH

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Chris’s Locksmith Service

RECYCLING

l

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures l 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

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

DRILLING SERVICE Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

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

LIFE COACH

VETERINARY

WINDOWS/DOORS

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

Call John 087 610 8499

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday • Saturday Clinic 10am - 3pm Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

6621220

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

FARMING

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

33

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

Sports PEOPLE

Reeling in the Archives Short putts

Exciting club ties confirmed! < SEAMUS DUKE

There are some cracking ties down for decision when the Roscommon football championships get underway on the weekend of the 25th and 26th of July.

In the Hodson Bay Hotel SFC, Roscommon Gaels take on Western Gaels while old rivals Clann na nGael and St. Brigid’s meet – as

will neighbours Elphin and Strokestown.

Michael Glavey’s will face Tulsk and St. Croan’s will play Fuerty in the games fixed for Saturday, the 25th of July. There is one SFC game due to be played on Sunday (26th) and it’s the mouth-watering clash of Boyle and defending champions Padraig Pearses.

In the Mulryan Construction IFC, champi-

onship favourites St. Faithleach’s open their campaign against St. Aidan’s. Kilbride will face Creggs while St. Barry’s will take on St. Dominic’s on the 25th. On Sunday (26th) Ballinameen take on Shannon Gaels, Kilmore face Oran and Conor Cox’s Eire Og will meet Castlerea St. Kevin’s. A full list of the fixtures can be seen on the Roscommon GAA website.

Earley casts doubt on merit of running an All-Ireland this year < SEAMUS DUKE

Former Roscommon All Star and senior team manager Paul Earley says that he is “not convinced” by the need to run inter-county GAA championships this year.

The former Michael Glavey’s man also says that the fact that his older brother Dermot is still remembered so fondly ten years after his passing is a major consolation to his family.

Speaking to the Roscommon People at the weekend, Paul, who now lives in Co. Kildare and is a prominent GAA analyst on Sky Sports, says that the GAA’s handling of the pandemic has been good.

“There was criticism over the first couple of months that the association were slow in reopening their facilities but they adopted a ‘safety first’ attitude and that was the right way to go.

There are so many people involved in the association of all ages that they had to be very careful about reopening their facilities” he said.

Paul says that the association were right to resume games with club action. “It is great that the clubs are back in training and will be soon to be able to play (competitive) matches. 100% of GAA players are club players and

Roscommon GAA Supporters Club Dinner Dance 2013: Brian Carroll of Roscommon GAA Supporters Club and Kevin McStay, Guest of Honour, pictured making a Club Rossie presentation to Paul Earley in recognition of his status as a Roscommon player who won an All Star. Picture: Andrew Fox

they definitely should have been given priority” he said.

The former Roscommon star is however not certain that there is a need to play All-Ireland Championships this year. “I am still not convinced that we need to play an inter-county championship this year. If it works out it will be great, but playing big championship games in October and November in poor weather

and in front of very small crowds – or none – will be very strange and I am not sure how that will work, to be honest. Let’s see how the club championships work out first”.

Mr. Earley is currently the manager of the Celbridge Ladies Senior team and he has seen huge enthusiasm since the players returned to training.

He maintains that the GAA should be able to shoulder

the huge financial loss this year – as long as things can return to normal.

“The association will just have to deal with the (financial) situation as best they can. I would say that the decision to run the intercounty championships is partly based on financial considerations. But as long as this situation lasts for just this year, the association should be able to weather the storm.

“The Government will have a role to play too. The GAA is a massive community-based organisation that has done marvellous work over the decades. We have seen that especially during the pandemic and hopefully there will be funding there to support that work to enable the association to move forward” he said.

Paul says that the Earley family are uplifted by the continuing warmth which is constantly shown to the memory of his brother Dermot, who passed away ten years ago last week.

“It is remarkable that it is ten years since Dermot passed away and there is hardly a day goes by that I don’t hear another story about him and the way he touched people in different ways. A lot of those stories come from outside the GAA as well.

“He was such a hero and role model for so many people and it is humbling to know that so many people have such respect for his ideals and his values. It certainly doesn’t seem like ten years since he passed away.

“It is fantastic to see the enduring respect that people have for him, not alone in Roscommon and in the GAA, but in all walks of life – and throughout the country and beyond” he concluded.

(News from local golf clubs)

Roscommon As competitions return at Roscommon Golf Club a reminder to all to please book your time on the BRS for all competitions (including seniors) and ensure that you have sufficient money in your purse on BRS to pay for competitions. Download Master Scoreboard in order to input your score as it is not permissible under the current guidelines to exchange score cards.

Our Men’s beginner golf competition takes place on Monday evenings.

Great news this week when it was confirmed by the Golfing Union of Ireland that interclub competitions will commence during the summer.

We look forward to following our Senior and Junior Cup teams and our Pierce Purcell and Jimmy Bruen teams over the next few weeks.

Lady Captain’s Prize dates are as follows – Monday, 13th of July: 9-hole qualifier (Stableford format).

Tuesday, 14th of July (day 1): 18hole stroke format. Saturday, 18th of July (day 2): 18-hole stroke format.

Thursday, 16th of July: Lady Captains Prize to Seniors.

Boyle Next Sunday’s competition for the men is the PGA Tankard played as an 18-hole Stableford, with the James Shivnan Memorial competition taking place the following Sunday, the 19th of July.

The keenly anticipated ‘Voucher’ competition takes place on the last Sunday in July, the 26th. The winner of ‘the Voucher’ gets a free single membership for the year.

Castlerea The members of Castlerea Golf Club were delighted to return to Club Competitions this week. The Ladies played two competitions and the pending results for Tuesday, June 30th are – 1st: Maura Tully (37 pts); 2nd: Laura Griffith (36 pts); 3rd: Valerie Callaghan (36 pts). Tuesday’s competition was kindly sponsored by Kelly Henry Medical Centre.

The pending results for Thursday, July 2nd are – 1st: Ruth Sullivan (38 pts); 2nd: Laura Griffith (35 pts); 3rd: Valerie Rabbitt (35 pts). Thursday’s competition was kindly sponsored by Sonas Beauty Clinic Castlerea.

The men also began their competition season on Saturday and Sunday, the 4th and 5th of July. This competition was kindly sponsored by Kelly Henry Medical Centre and the results will be posted later.

34

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

SportsPeople

Back in action at Community Sports Park! < DAN DOONER

At first glance, it doesn’t seem like much has changed at the Roscommon Community Sports Park in Lisnamult. That is until you realise the prefab changing rooms are now locked and there’s a new sign-in book at the entrance to the AstroTurf pitches.

Before players can lace up and take part in weekly 5-a-side games, there are also a number of protocols that must be adhered to.

First and foremost, those with any of the symptoms of Covid-19 must stay away while match-fit players must take part in a number of new warm-up rituals. The sharing of water bottles is now forbidden, as too is the use of bibs – so players are urged to sort teams and team colours prior to arrival.

Once at the venue, players must then sign in and provide their phone number for tracing in the event of a Covid-19 case. Hand sanitiser is also provided at the entrance and players are urged to use it ahead of kick-off.

Chairperson of Roscommon Community Sports Park, Liam Stephens, says it’s a case of ‘so far, so good’ since reopening last week.

“Our sign-in book and hand sanitiser is working fine so far. It’s amazing how quickly everyone got used to these new regulations and taking the precautions.

Like most sporting venues and businesses, we were a little bit nervous reopening but it’s gone very well.

“We haven’t had any big groups booked in yet so we have no problem with numbers. We’ve had no real issues with fivea-side but things might be different when clubs get back into full training.

“It’s great to see it back open and we’re delighted to see so many groups making use of it as always. For many it’s a critical social event each week as well as a great way of keeping fit. The vast majority of those who use it will respect the new guidelines and hopefully everyone will stay safe,” he said.

In a further bid to keep everyone safe, the Roscommon Community Sports Park committee have teamed up with bookapitch.com so players and teams can now book and pay for slots online.

While committee members and players alike remain cautious, there was a palpable relief following the reopening of the venue last week. A number of players told this out of breath reporter of their need to get back on the pitch following a long and draining period of lockdown. The general consensus was that a weekly fix of five-aside was not only a vital social outlet and a way of getting back in shape, but also offered welcome respite from the stress associated with Covid-19.

The Roscommon Community Sports Park committee as well as the many casual and not-so-casual weekly footballers will now be hoping the new protocols keep everyone safe, which, in turn, will make sure the popular facility remains open.

Horses by Tom Red for Courses

Bolivar runs away with the colts and geldings maiden

Today’s action is on the level at Navan at 1.05pm. Tomorrow evening the action over jumps is at nearby Kilbeggan first race at 4.55pm and features the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National and on the flat at headquarters on the Curragh away at 4.45pm. Saturday flat racing is at Leopardstown at 2.35pm and on Sunday there are 2 more flat cards with racing at Cork at 3.10pm. and on the all-weather at Dundalk at 3.30pm. On Monday jump racing returns to Lenebane and Killarney provides action on the level at pm.

On Friday evening Kilbeggan start with a mares maiden hurdle followed by 2 divisions of a colts and geldings maiden all 3 races over 2m 3f. The fourth race is a conditions hurdle over the same distance and the final hurdle race on the cards is a 3m handicap. Next up a Beginners Chase over 2m 3f followed by the feature Midlands National Handicap Chase over 3m the 6th on the card. Racing concludes with a 2m bumper for 5, 6 and 7-Y-O’s.

In today’s Dante Stakes at York Aidan O’Brien sends over Cormorant, winner of the Derrinstown House Stud Derby Trial where he will be ridden by James Doyle and meets 5 opponents. Michael Stoute’s odds on fav the unbeaten Highest Ground, Kevin Ryan’s 2000 Guineas fifth Juan Elcano, Richard Hannon’s unbeaten Al Madhar, the John Gosden-trained Encipher and Thunderous from Mark Johnston’s stable. He also sends Dawn Rising and Swiss Ace to Newmarket today where Ryan Moore rides.

There is racing live on RTE on Friday from Kilbeggan and the Curragh from 7.00pm to 8.00pm presented

by Hugh Cahill regular pundits Jane Mangan, Ted Walsh and Ruby Walsh. There is also racing on Saturday from Leopardstown and on Saturday from Cork and Dundalk, both days 5.00pm to 6.00pm.

Racing in Roscommon on Tuesday opens with a 2m apprentice maiden hurdle sponsored by JP McManus’s Adare Manor followed by a 2m conditions hurdle dedicated to all our frontline workers. Racing over the minor obstacles finishes with a 2m 3f handicap. The first of 3 chases on the card is a conditions race over 2m followed by the 2m Larry O’Farrelly Memorial Handicap sponsored by Helen Mee of Four Roads and a 3m 1f Beginners Chase. Racing closes with a 4-Y-O Bumper confined to amateur riders.

The Group 1 Darley July Cup takes place at Newmarket on Saturday with 2 Irish trained runners, Denis Hogan’s Sceptical is on a retrieval mission following Royal Ascot and Aidan O’Brien’s Southern Hills. Ballydoyle send over Battleground, ante post fav, and Hudson River for the Group 2 Superlative Stakes.

Review of the Week In heavy going the Listed Lenebane Stakes, the feature race on Tuesday’s Roscommon card, was won the Joseph O’Brien trained Pondus. The 4-Y-O was ridden by Wayne Flashback to 2018: Aaron Bruno Alves in control of possession as he enjoys the facilities at Roscommon Community Sports Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Lordan and beat Camphor and Helvic Dream by 2¼l and 1¾l. O’Brien was completing a double having won the John and Helen Earley sponsored Property Partners Earley Apprentice Handicap with the Mickey Sheehy ridden Isotope. The trainer of Camphor, Jessica Harrington, had some compensation completing a double, winning the opener with No Speak Alexander and the closing race with Yulong Pearlisland both ridden by Shane Foley. Fozzy Stack trained the winner of the 3rd race, a 7f handicap, with Chris Hayes in the saddle. Nenagh trainer Michael O’Meara trained his first winner when Declan McDonagh won on the fav Noble Music in the 1m 2f fillies maiden.

The German bred 4-Y-O had been 2nd over course and distance last month. The colts and geldings maiden was easily won by the 3-Y-O Bolivar trained by Paddy Twomey with Billy Lee aboard.

Ballydoyle completed an Epsom Derby and Oaks double last Saturday. In the Oaks O’Brien’s filly Love, English 1000 Guineas winner, beat stable mate Ennistymon with Frankly Darling 3rd. The winner was ridden by Ryan Moore, the runner-up by Seamie Heffernan and the third was trained by John Gosden with Frankie Dettori aboard.

In the Derby Ballydoyle trained 5 of the 16 that went to post but it was their 25/1 outsider Serpentine, who only won his maiden at the end of last month, that won and gave 21 year old Emmet McNamara his first classic winner. Jockey Tom Marquand, who had been jocked off English King for Frankie Dettori, finished 2nd on Kalifa Sat at 50/1 beaten 5½l and William Buick finished 3rd on Amhran Na Bhfiann at 66/1, a stable mate of the winner.

Aidan O’Brien has now trained a record 8 Epsom Derby winners.

On Sunday there were 7 runners in Sandown’s Eclipse Stakes John Gosden’s super filly Enable had to play 2nd fiddle to Godolphin’s Ghaiyyath on her seasonal debut over a 1m 2f. Trained by Charlie Appleby and ridden by William Buick made every post a winning one and when he kicked for home 3 down the race was over in a couple of strides with 5¼l separating him from Enable.

Ballydoyle’s Japan and Magic Wand finished 3rd and 4th another head and 1½l away.

John Gosden got a little compensation as Mishriff won the Prix du Jockey Club, the French Derby, at Chantilly on Sunday beating The Summit and Victor Ludorum by 1¾l and a neck. Aidan O’Brien had 2 runners with Seamie Heffernan incurring a 22-day whip ban for his ride on Order Of Australia who finished 7th and Saturday’s hero Emmet McNamara finished 15th on Fort Myers. Fledgling trainer Donnacha O’Brien, at 21, won his first classic, the Prix de Diane, with Fancy Blue beating Jessica Harrington’s Alpine Star, the fav., and his father’s Peaceful by a short neck and a head to complete an Irish 1, 2, 3. Raabihah was another head away in 4th. Father Aidan trained his first classic winner, the Irish 2000 Guineas with Desert King, at 28 and

35

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY

Ooh Aah Paul McGrath … a national hero!

quarter-final stage. Yet McGrath was selected on the Team of the Tournament…as a midfielder.

That tells you how great a player he was.

When he left Villa in 1997, McGrath joined Derby, playing superbly for 24 games, before the club reluctantly decided to move the now injuryravaged veteran on. Perhaps the end was nigh.

Sheffield United, playing in the First Division (now The Championship) came calling, and McGrath lined out 12 times for the Blades, playing until he was almost 38 years of age, before finally hanging up his boots at the end of the 1997/98 season. Even warriors wilt!

At every club where he played, the fans still talk of the quiet, shy Irishman with the deceptively laid-back style, who simply demolished – and demoralised – opponents with his extraordinary positional sense, his wonderful timing, and his great tackling and heading. McGrath had speed in his day, but he didn’t really have to outpace opponents; he was just in the right place before they were. McGrath read the game effortlessly; at times the ball seemed to be drawn to him.

Watching him dominate games from the back was a joy. To this day, he is remembered with reverence at those clubs he graced.

HEROES

REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS

‘And what can we say about Paul McGrath?

In his long career he has never been more brilliant. He took the ball with every part of his foot: instep, side, heel and at times even sole.

He looked as casual as if playing with his two small boys in the back garden. He was doing things that surely had Jack Charlton demented because our Jack likes things plain and simple.

Our Paul is a law unto himself. You cannot regulate genius. We were seeing the gospel according to Paul’.

– Con Houlihan on Ireland v Italy in Italia ’90 Paul McGrath was brilliant in that 1990 World Cup quarter-final against tournament hosts, Italy. Ireland lost 1-0, ending a first and memorable participation in the World Cup finals.

Four years later, McGrath lined out against the Italians again, this time in the 1994 World Cup, in the USA. He was now 34 years of age, his body battered by injury. McGrath produced arguably the most celebrated performance of his career, as Ireland defeated the Italians 1-0, courtesy of that strange, looping Ray Houghton shot.

The great gentle giant of Irish football famously barred Italy from the Irish goal on that memorable day, like a quiet, utterly unreasonable bouncer refusing to let a cocky regular through the nightclub door on one of the biggest nights of the year.

McGrath’s epic performance in the Giants Stadium in New York can be ranked as one of the most acclaimed of his career – it was certainly a wonderful confluence of footballing prowess and occasion – but we cannot assume that it was his best day in a football jersey.

Two weeks ago I wrote about all the sensational George Best performances that were never recorded on film. We end up enthusing about the great Best goals we saw, while unaware of many others that no medium ever preserved.

I appreciate that much more of McGrath’s career was filmed than Best’s, but I’d still make the point that there were numerous stunning displays by the former that never came to widespread attention.

Ask fans of Derby County or Sheffield United.

Or ask the fans of Aston Villa, where McGrath is hero-worshipped to this day. We all know about McGrath’s time at Manchester United, and his great displays for Ireland – in fairness, his Villa years were well documented too – but the sheer class of the man is underlined by the noble beauty of his playing swansong.

It was the late-1990s, and McGrath was then with Sheffield United. By now, he was a 37-year-old veteran plagued by injury and battling alcoholism. Every Monday for a few months, I bought one or more of the English tabloids. Much of their coverage of soccer was hyped, silly, gushing…a print version of Sky Sports at its worst (or best?) – but there was what was then a novelty: the tabloids’ football correspondents had around that time begun to rate the performance (out of ten) of every player in every game.

The reason I can vividly remember checking those Monday morning tabloids is down to one astonishing pattern: game after game (almost without exception) Paul McGrath was Sheffield United’s best player, usually attaining an 8 or 9 out of 10, frequently being chosen as man of the match.

He was a supremely gifted footballer, and – for all Paul’s demons – it is to his great credit that he bravely and brilliantly squeezed everything possible from his body and career as the clock ticked ominously.

He squeezed, and he delivered. Best only played at the highest level up to the age of 27; the great Paul McGrath was still producing those man of the match performances at club level as a 37-year-old!

World football marvelled at his brilliance in the Giants Stadium in 1994. But it really was ‘ever thus’.

Paul didn’t have to face players as good as the mercurial Roberto Baggio every run of the mill weekend back in the UK, but week on week he calmly dispensed with superstar or elbow-leading journeyman, or the guys in between. McGrath generally mastered them all, whether at Old Trafford, Villa Park or on a wet night in Sheffield.

The Giants Stadium was special because of where and when it was – and certainly the stakes were higher than on most Saturdays – but it really was business as usual for football’s shy, gentle giant.

Charlie Walker: ‘I went across for that game. It was the first time I was ever taken into the VIP lounge at Old Trafford. Who comes across to me after the match? Only the famous Matt Busby. And in his Scottish accent he says ‘That’s one hell of a lad you’ve sent us there’’ – From ‘Paul McGrath: Back from the Brink’ (2007) Shy, gentle, troubled, brilliant. There are, no doubt, many different sides to Paul McGrath. At times, he has been a deeply sad, tortured man. He has admitted that he let people down – loved ones, people in football too. As the blurb of his biography, the superb work of Irish Independent journalist Vincent Hogan, put it: “…behind the implied glamour of life in the employ of great English clubs like Manchester United and Aston Villa, McGrath wrestled with a range of destructive emotions that made his success

in the game little short of miraculous”.

Demons certainly shadowed Paul, who had a very tough upbringing – and this writer won’t be delving much into those personal torments, least of all passing any judgements…rather I’d prefer to honour an exceptional footballer and a much-loved man.

A great career He started out with St. Patrick’s Athletic, moving to Manchester United in 1982. After seven years and some success there, he was sold by Alex Ferguson, apparently largely because of McGrath’s excessive drinking. At Aston Villa, the late Graham Taylor (manager) was a caring and compassionate fatherlike figure for McGrath.

Over several seasons at Villa, McGrath was consistently brilliant. Not only was he the club’s player of the year season after season, he was also the PFA Player of the Year in 1992-93.

While starring a club level, McGrath also became a magnificent warrior in the heart of the Irish defence, where manager Jack Charlton – like Taylor – showed commendable man management skills.

McGrath, for a long time unbeknownst to the wider public, had slipped into a chronic dependence on alcohol. It led to him missing training and matches, and testing the patience of loved ones and his football colleagues. But he was and is an immensely likeable person. That, coupled with his extraordinary ability to play to a high standard – despite his hard lifestyle and developing knee problems – meant that managers did everything to get him on to the field, and teammates happily turned the proverbial blind eye to the way in which McGrath was indulged.

It really is amazing how brilliantly McGrath could play when you take into account his drinking, his injuries and the mental strain he was frequently under.

I hope it is not patronising to suggest that happiness for him, during those years, was most likely only to be found on the football pitch.

Let’s get back to the football: another memory I have of the 1990 World Cup tournament is of reading of the journalists’ Team of the competition. Jack Charlton was playing Paul McGrath in midfield, which of course was not his normal position (he was a central defender). Ireland bowed out at the

‘He’s the best defender I’ve ever played with.

Without doubt. Absolutely world class. I mean he was probably only playing at seventy-five to eighty per cent of his ability. So taking that into consideration, he was absolutely awesome’ – Gordon Cowans, English international and Villa teammate

Ooh Aah… Here in Ireland, we’ll remember Paul for his long and relatively successful club career in England, but even that was surpassed by his magnificent service in an Irish shirt.

He won 83 caps for the Republic of Ireland. On a bad day, he was very good; most days, he was sensational, sometimes out of this world.

He oozed class, in defence or midfield, and he played his heart out every time he took to the field for Ireland. McGrath became a folk hero, a national treasure. I will refer you to the ‘Ooh Aah Paul McGrath’ chant, itself now part of football folklore, indeed of Irish culture.

It is no exaggeration to say that Paul McGrath was worshipped by Irish fans – in his playing days, and still. I hope this modest man, historically so prone to self-doubt, realises just how loved he is. I hope he’s doing well.

He will always be loved by Irish people, always be a national hero. Ooh Aah Paul McGrath indeed!

The series so far…

1: Tony Currie & Trevor Brooking 2: Steve Davis, Jimmy White & Ken Doherty 3: Con Houlihan 4: Eamonn Coghlan 5: Bjorn Borg 6: Muhammad Ali 7: Dermot Earley 8: Liam Brady 9: Tony Ward & Ollie Campbell 10: Seve Ballesteros 11: Sonia O’Sullivan 12: George Best 13: Alex Higgins 14: Paul McGrath For previous columns, see www.roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 10 July 2020

36

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