Roscommon People 22nd May 2020 by RossiePeople

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

We are now open

Please follow all HSE Covid-19 Guidelines

Local nursing home confirms two deaths linked to Covid-19 < PAUL HEALY

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

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Cloverhill Nursing Home in County Roscommon has confirmed that two female residents who had been ill for some time have sadly passed away due to Covid-19. Another resident is being treated in Roscommon Hospital. The Manager of Cloverhill Nursing Home said everyone at the home was very upset at the news and wanted to extend their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the residents who had passed away. Last week, Cloverhill Nursing Home confirmed that 22 residents and 16 staff members had tested positive for Covid-19.

On Wednesday evening, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre said it had been informed that a total of 11 people with Covid-19 had died in Ireland in the previous 24 hours. There have now been a total 1,571 Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland, and 24,315 confirmed cases. Meanwhile, a Dáil debate will take place today (Thursday) on the scale of Covid-19 infection within the meat processing industry. Deputy Denis Naughten says three Cabinet Ministers will be held accountable in a single Dáil session on the scale of Covid-19 infection in the meat processing industry.

Roscommon-Galway Constituency

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Eugene

Murphy

Pictured at Miland’s Garden Centre in Mountbellew were sisters Clodagh, Aisling and Neasa Raftery. Picture: Michael McCormack.

“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”

No 2: Orla Leyden

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, Roscommon Townavailable Co. Galway reassured that I am Co. Roscommon at all times if you have any  087 435 3834  071 963 3000  090 662 5722 concerns or issues

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PERSONAL INJURY Contact our dedicated Personal Injury Department in

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Real Solutions for Rural Ireland

Eugene Murphy Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

Circular Road, Roscommon town Tel. 090 6626172

Megan Flynn and Ruby the dog enjoying some exercise during the pandemic. Picture: Michael McCormack

 eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

MOBILE: 087 1668775

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

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

e l p o e WATCHING P 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 No Seatbelt and Personal Injury*

I was involved in a car accident a few months ago. My friend was driving his car, much too fast in my opinion, when he skidded and crashed into a wall. I was a back seat passenger in the car at the time. I was not wearing my seatbelt. My other friend who was a front seat passenger told me that he has been to his solicitor to investigate a personal injury claim for him. Does the fact that I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt prevent me from claiming for my significant injuries? The fact that you were not wearing your seatbelt does not prevent you from pursuing a personal injury claim. It would appear that your friend was driving his car negligently and some of your injuries can be attributed to his actions. In such a scenario your solicitor would pursue a personal injury action on your behalf against your friend’s car insurers. However, it is essential that you advise your solicitor that you were not wearing your seatbelt at the time of the accident. Your solicitor will advise the other side of this and then your claim will carry on as usual. The legal term for this is contributory negligence and simply means that you contributed to your injuries, but not to the actual accident itself. Your friend’s car insurers will seek to reduce your compensation claim on the basis that some of your injuries were exacerbated by reason of you not wearing your seat belt.

CYCLING ACCIDENT

With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Those dreams…they’re a nightmare!

Which are they? If you were involved in aDreams cycling or nightmares? accident contactwhat I mean… Well, you know

Byrne Carolan honestly, I’ve been having some very Cunningham Solicitors strange dreams ever since this Covid-19

started… So you say! I’m twisting and turning in bed, it’s like I’m marking one of the Murtaghs! VERY strange dreams… Go on… Well, the other night, I was a member of the Cabinet… Wha’? In the dream. I dreamt I was in the Government! We had a Cabinet meeting… Really? What was it like? What did ye talk about? I shouldn’t really say…you know, Cabinet confidentiality. Oh for God’s sake, IT WAS A DREAM! Okay, calm down. Well, being a dream, it was a bit silly. Leo was there, and the two Simons, but then there were some strange ministers, who shouldn’t have been there… You, for starters… Well, not just me. Others… Shane Ross? No…Marty Morrissey was a minister! And Daniel O’Donnell! And Joe Brolly! I see what you mean…strange dreams. How did the Cabinet meeting go? Well, we discussed Covid, then we got on to the GAA, and Brolly took over. He stood on the table and started lecturing Leo, telling him he knows nothing about sport, nothing about the GAA… What did Leo say?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Leo never flinched. He said he knows the GAA inside out, then he looked straight at Brolly and said ‘By the way, who are you?’ It was priceless… Anything else of note? It doesn’t sound THAT strange… Oh no, it was. The door opened at one stage and Micheál Martin burst in, accusing us of starting without him. Then Dickie Rock and Johnny Logan rolled into the room, wrestling they were, having a right good scrap… Oh dear, I heard about their row. How did it all end up?

Oh I think Johnny had Dickie in a headlock, Brolly was trying to break them up… No, I mean how did the meeting end? Well, it went on for hours, but then Daniel starting singing, and we began to break up fairly quickly… Had there been any big decisions made… you probably can’t remember… Oh yes! Seeing as Micheál Martin had gatecrashed, there was a bit of a tense debate about who would be the first revolving Taoiseach when Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael finally get together… Boy, you remember a lot of that dream… Yeah, I remember Marty Morrissey making a very statesmanlike speech… he talked about their respective strengths, talked about the civil war, the weight of history… Wow… And on and on it went…Brolly was vocal too… I’ll bet! So, in the end, did they do the right thing? Did the old foes make up? Were the troubles of the past binned, in the national interest? Were differences cast aside? Did our two heroes step up to the plate…shake hands, and divvy out the top two jobs? YES to all those questions! They kissed and made up! They cast their historic differences aside! We got a deal! Two mighty men they are! Ah fair play to Leo and Micheál… NO! Not them! Johnny & Dickie made up! Johnny Logan will be Tánaiste for the first two years, and Dickie Rock will be Taoiseach!

What we liked…

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.

There are signs of significant progress in the national effort to curb Covid. Tragically, we continue to lose people to the virus, many are suffering (and mourning), and our heroic frontline workers are under pressure. But thankfully there are strong signs that our collective effort is having a positive impact. We need to continue to adhere to all guidelines…

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

What we didn’t like…

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

In a weekend interview, Nell McCafferty on her former partner, the late Nuala O’Faolain: “…I don’t know was she the love of my life or the liar of my life. I can’t say what she lied about but enough people knew about it”. To which one might respond: ‘Better that you said nothing at all Nell… not know, not in public, not when Nuala isn’t around to defend herself’.

What PEOPLE are talking about ... PIC OF WEEK: Izzy Butler and ‘Ranger’ out and about in Cortoon, Ballaghaderreen during the week. Picture: Michael McCormack Pictured at Miland’s Garden Centre, Mountbellew were Kayla and Sharon. Picture: Michael McCormack.

The reopening of selected businesses, including garden centres, has lifted morale, as has the fact that golf can now be played again. GREEN shoots, on the double…

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

STAY SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

A diary of the times that are (part 10) There is, no question about it, increased activity in Roscommon town. More vehicles, more people…and that has been a trend in the past fortnight or so. An increase this week was to be expected. Monday wasn’t so much D-Day as PDay…phase one of an embattled country’s slow reopening. I take a walk around our great county town most days. By day, it’s definitely showing small signs of normality; by evening, the eerie atmosphere resumes. But, day or night, the shadow of Covid looms. We’re ten weeks or so into lockdown, and most shop/office windows are still displaying posters and signs with the now familiar opening sentence: ‘Due to…’ (You know the rest). On the door of one premises, the sign, like our world, is upside down. On Monday, garden centres and a handful of other businesses reopened. That will explain the steady flow of traffic. But it’s nothing like a normal May, and most businesses, sadly, remain closed for now. There’s been a significant increase in wearing of masks. It’s remarkable, this new normal. Soon, very soon, we won’t even notice it. For now, it’s still a shock to the system, seeing the people of Roscommon going about their business with face masks on. It is where we are. This is life under Covid. This is how things must be. While people remain friendly – and philosophical about this bombshell that 2020 has brought us – there is undoubtedly a wariness in the air. Fear might be too strong a word. People say hello, some chat, but many just want to move on. You see it in the shops, and again, it’s entirely understandable. This too is life under Covid. On Monday, the weather wasn’t quite on a par with previous weeks, but it’s still a blessing. There is evidence of many people having had the paint brushes out. Lockdown has brought opportunities too! I meet one of the great gentlemen of the town. He is tending to some plants in his garden. We exchange greetings, chat…and move on. Three people sit on a wall near the castle, all three wearing masks. A man I haven’t

“

A man I haven’t seen before is selling tomatoes and plums on the street. Presumably as a marketing ploy, he has a big Roscommon flag stuck into a traffic cone

The county town can be eerily quiet during lockdown: Church Street at 8.45 pm on a recent Monday evening.

seen before is selling tomatoes and plums on the street. Presumably as a marketing ploy, he has a big Roscommon flag stuck into a traffic cone. (There is no suggestion that either the flag or the cone are for sale!). At the mart, no animals, just a few cars. At the roundabouts, steady traffic. There are lots of people out walking. Even at the bus stop, people are being advised to stay at home. ‘Save lives, stay at home’ is the message on

a large sign beside where the buses normally pull in. A large Guinness sign prominently placed in the window of a pub catches my eye. ‘The Three Degrees’ had a hit with ‘When Will I See You Again?’ So say all us who are occasionally drawn to a drop of the black stuff (Draught)… Walking back down Main Street, I’m struck too by the empty coffee shops and cafes.

People are desperately missing the simple pleasure of popping into such places. Also closed, the barbers and hairdressers, which, until further notice, should be renamed ‘The Promised Land’. The familiar flow of life has been abruptly and shockingly interrupted, like a river current mysteriously stalled. Anyone I meet has much the same perspective; it’s difficult, but it’s worth it. And there’s a long road ahead. But we must do our bit for ourselves, our families, our neighbours. This, random joys apart, is the lost summer, or maybe the different summer. A summer we will never forget. And uncertain times still ahead. We must continue to try to save lives. There has been too much heartbreak already, including in our community. We must be responsible, all of us. In the window of the wonderfully quaint Times Pieces – always one of the reassuring sights in our great town – there is a stone ornament, on which is carved a quote from the philosopher Plato, who clearly knew his stuff. “Be kind. Every person you meet is fighting a difficult battle”.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Garden Centre, Florist and Capolatte Cafe

NOW OPEN

One of the best Garden Centres in the West is now open to the public

We are stocked with the most fabulous plants, bedding, shrubs, perennials, fruit trees, trees and lots lots more

Call to see the fantastic range in Milands! We would like to thank everyone for their patience and support while we remained closed to help flatten the curve

We will remain open 7 days a week for the forseable future

Opening Hours Mon – Sat: 9am – 6pm Sunday: 12pm – 5pm

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople ROBERT FLYNN THE SQUARE, CASTLEREA, ROSCOMMON - Tel: (094) 9620028

MAKE GOOD USE OF THE BEAUTIFUL WEATHER ... Spraying Potatoes for blight ... Weed, Dithane, Curzate, Bluestone, Washing Soda. Selection of vegetable plants still available; Onion Sets; Lawnseed, Grass Seed, Acres and 1/2 Acres Fishing Season is in full swing at the moment – see our largest ever range of Spinning Rods, Baits, Spoons, Worms, Spinners, Hooks, Flies, Fly Rods, Landing Nets, Reels, etc 2020 Fishing Permits Special offer: 5ft Rod Reel, complete with line, only €35 Do you have a firearm you no longer require? We can store it or destroy it for a small fee

Fred Kilmartin Ltd. reopens See pages 18 & 19 Based on the recent announcement by the Government, Fred Kilmartin Ltd. reopened on Monday last, 18th of May. For the safety of customers, social distancing guidelines are being enforced. Customers can avail of their online booking service on www.fredkilmartinltd. ie – just click BOOK ON LINE tab and follow the instructions. They are also offering collection and delivery service where customers are unable to travel. Speaking to the Roscommon People on the recent reopening, a spokesperson said: “The health of our customers and their vehicles are of the most concern to us, and with this in mind, before a customer collects their vehicle, all vehicles having work carried out in our workshop will have

their vehicle sanitised by the state-of-the-art SANY CAR system. “SANY CAR is the ideal device to sanitise and deodorise both the interior and whole air-conditioning system of every type of vehicle: cars, campers, SUVs, minibuses, ambulances, medical cars, vans, trucks and little crafts. SANY CAR is light and easy to be carried and it is powered with electric energy through a normal socket. It’s provided with a simple and intuitive display with three pre-set working programmes, different for the duration of the treatment and the quantity of ozone to produce. Each one is planned to expressly guarantee the best result in the shortest time possible, depending on the type of vehicle. “Its exclusive ’Safe System’ allows reconverting the residual ozone in oxygen in a safe, quick and completely automatised way. Thanks to this device, it is possible

to deliver and re-use the vehicle just after the end of the treatment, giving our valued customer peace of mind and a cleaner vehicle”. “We would like to thank all our customers for their patience during these difficult times. As a nation, when Ireland called we all answered and did what we do best; supported our neighbours and friends in these difficult times. As we now gradually loosen the reins and try to get used to this new norm, we have now a new place in our hearts for all frontline workers from the local grocery, Gardaí, nurses, doctors, paramedics, postal workers, and charities, to everyone else who supported the fight against this pandemic. Thank you for your support”. To arrange an appointment or for further information contact 090-9630800 or log on to www.fredkilmartinltd.ie.

Large range of Bullets, Cartridges & Guns in stock

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION

Flower power! Milands Garden Centre in Mountbellew reopens…

Sunday, 24 May 2020 In today’s First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, St. Luke gives the surprising news that there is more of the story to be told. The story did not end with the empty tomb, or with Jesus’ appearances to the Apostles over the course of forty days. Jesus’ saving work will have a liturgical consummation. He is the great high priest, and He has still to ascend to the heavenly Jerusalem, there to celebrate the feast in the true Holy of Holies. The truth of this feast shines forth from the Letter to the Hebrews, where we read of the great high priest’s passing through the heavens, the sinless intercessor’s sacrifice on our behalf (see Hebrews 4:14–15). Indeed, His intercession will lead to the Holy Spirit’s descent in fire upon the Church. Luke spells out that promise in the First Reading for the feast of the Ascension: “in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1:5). The Ascension is the preliminary feast that directs the Church’s attention forward to Pentecost. On that day, salvation will be complete; for salvation is not simply expiation for sins (that would be wonder enough), but it is something even greater than that. Expiation is itself a necessary precondition of our adoption as God’s children. To live that divine life we must receive the Holy Spirit. To receive the Holy Spirit we must be purified through Baptism. The Responsorial Psalm presents the Ascension in terms familiar from the worship of the Jerusalem Temple in the days of King Solomon: “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord” (Psalm 47). The priestking takes his place at the head of the people, ruling over the nations, establishing peace. The Epistle strikes a distinctively Paschal note. In the early Church, as today, Easter was the normal time for the baptism of adult converts. The sacrament was often called “illumination” or “enlightenment” because of the light that came with God’s saving grace (see, for example, Hebrews 10:32). Saint Paul, in his Letter to the Ephesians, speaks in terms of glory that leads to greater glories still, as Ascension leads to Pentecost: “May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened,” he writes, as he looks to the divinisation of the believers. Their “hope” is “his inheritance among the holy ones,” the saints who have been adopted into God’s family and now rule with Him at the Father’s right hand. This is the “good news” the Apostles are commissioned to spread – to the whole world, to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem – at the Ascension. It’s the good news we must spread today. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Pictured are Aileen Hogan and Yvonne Miland Pictured are Aileen Hogan and Yvonne Miland (proprietor). Picture: Michael McCormack. (proprietor). Picture: Michael McCormack.

Pictured is Phil Reddington, Dunmore. Picture: Michael McCormack.

Pictured are Pat Hynes and Gerry Lawless. Picture: Michael McCormack.

Pictured is Yvonne Miland (proprietor). Picture: Michael McCormack.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople About Sean… Sean Murray is the CEO of Snap, a company passionate about providing end-to-end marketing solutions. Snap partner with companies helping them promote their brand. Originally from a farming background in Lanesborough, Co. Longford, Sean started his early career in Advertising Sales with Shannonside Northern Sound Radio, which then progressed into a long-term career in Dell Computers (lasting c.17 years). From there he worked as General Manager in ATA Group for five years, with additional responsibility for leading a sizeable UK acquisition integration. His time and experience in ATA Group led Sean to his current role as CEO of Snap. Sean’s leadership experience spans industries such as Communication, IT, Manufacturing and Marketing. He holds an MBA from TUD and more recently completed the Trinity College Scaling Programme, along with purchasing the Snap Ireland business in December 2018.

Advertorial

How to approach working life in the future As we all work through the Government’s phased road map on the return to work, combined with the Health and Safety Authority now having the ability to shut down non-compliant workplaces, companies must consider how they can adapt to working in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The introduction of the Government’s Restart Grant will be well received by small businesses. The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety. When approaching the easing of lockdown restrictions, SEAN MURRAY, Snap Ireland CEO, suggests a structured approach, establishing a plan for your business to operate successfully in these changing times. Areas to consider Nominate a Covid-19 Employee Representative (as stated in Government’s Safety Protocol), staggered working hours, temperature checks, a ban on handshakes, contact tracing logs, social distancing measures, office modifications which make hygiene top priority, directional signage, communicating with a remote workforce, sanitising stations, and the use of PPE if required. In time, with advances in technology, who knows, we could see contactless offices. 1: Social Distancing Adhering to HSA guidelines on staffing capacity and behaviour by reducing shared working spaces and introducing Perspex Panels (sneeze/cough guards) in key areas. Snap provide a bespoke Perspex partition offering which is a low-cost, high-impact approach, giving greater comfort. 2: Keep it personal As sharing will not be permitted, consider the importance of providing personalised pens, stationery, water bottles and mugs. Some businesses may need PPE such as face masks that can carry a company brand or key message. 3: Signage Implement directional signage that suits your business. As safety signage is not a one solution fits all, quite often companies require a bespoke solution for their particular needs or building. E.g. posters, banners, floor and wall

graphics, window decals, all of which can be developed with a complimentary virtual site visit by Snap. 4: Sanitising Stations Installing sanitising stations at key points within your premises that meet health regulations is highly recommended. Of equal importance is the quality and legality of the sanitising liquid used. 5: Working from home This new way of working can present challenges for employees and businesses. Keeping remote-based employees engaged and part of the team is critical for business success. Video conferencing is now widely used by organisations to communicate with their team and customers. Snap can help complement working from home with a bespoke virtual backdrop for video conferencing, combined with a branded webcam cover for extra security when not in use. Recognition and appreciation for the work your remote employees do is a great way to show you care about them, but so many companies fall short in this area. Consider a personalised care pack, with branded collateral such as a bag, notebooks and pens, sanitising liquid, facemasks, etc. Hand sanitisers Sanitisation measures will be an ongoing requirement for all businesses, for the safety of your employees and customers. Firstly, it is important that the product is legal for sale and use in Ireland, and secondly that it has the desired sanitising effect. When it comes to an important purchase such as sanitising liquid, used by employees/ customers, Sean warns: “act in haste, repent at leisure”. Snap advises to only consider products which are formulated to the World Health Organisation’s formulations for Antimicrobial Hand rub, as these have been developed over many years and are proven by WHO to be effective. * Snap is a network of 16 centres across Ireland offering essential marketing services to businesses of all sizes. To find out more about our Safety at Work Essentials offering visit snap.ie/essentials. Our experienced team can provide a solution to meet your needs.

Talk to Snap about safety signage and related products to keep your customers and staff safe. Go to www.snap.ie to view our Essentials Safety Range or phone 091 767 626 to get a quote.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Local nursing home confirms CLAIRE two deaths KERRANE linked to Covid-19 TD Cloverhill Nursing Home in County Roscommon has confirmed that two female residents who had been ill for some time have sadly passed away due to Covid-19. Another resident is being treated in Roscommon hospital. The Manager of Cloverhill, Shirley Larkin, said everyone at the home was very upset at the news and wanted to extend their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the residents who had passed away. She said their thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased – and with all residents and families – at this very difficult time. Last week, Cloverhill Nursing Home confirmed that 22 residents and 16 staff members had tested positive for Covid-19. Ms. Larkin said that while the current crisis was placing a huge burden on residents, their loved ones, and staff members, residents are continuing to receive the best quality of care possible from a dedicated team.

“Cloverhill is a very close-knit community. Many of our healthcare assistants have worked in the centre for a long time; they come from the same areas as our residents and have established great friendships with them and with their families over the years. As you can imagine, there is a real sense of sadness and loss at this news. “We are caring for our most vulnerable citizens and sadly these are the very people which are most at risk from this virus. We would like to thank the residents and their families for all their support and to pay tribute to our hard-working staff for the tremendous care they are providing to residents. “They really have gone above and beyond during this crisis, so we would like to thank them sincerely for their amazing work, as well as our local doctors, the outbreak control team, ambulance service personnel and the staff at Roscommon University Hospital”.

If you require any assistance during this difficult time, please do not hesitate to get in touch anytime

Tel. 087 1945254 Email: claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

Ministers to be quizzed today on infections in meat plants

The Kepak factory in Athleague. There are unconfirmed reports that up to 100 staff at the facility have tested positive for Covid-19. Kepak has thus far declined to comment publicly on these reports.

Naughten: ‘We must address flaws in Covid protections in meat industry’ Deputy Denis Naughten has claimed that some staff in meat plants who were tested for Covid-19 returned to work before receiving the results of their tests. The Roscommon/Galway TD said that when it comes to the meat industry, it is clear there have been flaws in terms of social distancing and a lack of clear information on Covid-19 and particularly on self-isolation. “There have been numerous reports of staff who were tested for Covid-19 going back to work before they received their results – due to delays in lab results – when clearly there was a problem with infection in the meat plants concerned. In such instances, negative results are worthless, as due to the delays in receiving results the staff could have

been infected by other staff who were positive but showing no signs of infection (asymptomatic) in the intervening period. “Part of the system failure has been the ongoing delays is issuing test results and fundamental problems with contact tracing. These failures in the system have resulted in new infection clusters in communities across the country which up to now had low levels of Covid-19 infection”. Deputy Naughten said that if these issues are not addressed immediately, the risk of a second spike in Covid-19 infections becomes greater. “After such heroic efforts by every citizen in the State to stop the spread of this virus we cannot allow a second wave of infection under any circum-

stances. So while we must remain cautious in how we relax restrictions, we must also learn to live with Covid-19 which will be with us for a considerable time to come,” he said. Deputy Naughten expressed deep concern about the contact tracing system and also said there are long delays in informing people of their results. “For example, I could not understand that if there was such a swift turnaround in testing, as outlined to TDs by the HSE, why meat plants were not closed by public health officials until the Covid screening results came back. “But clearly the reason for the current management of clusters is because of the inordinate delays in providing results through the contact tracing system”.

A Dáil debate will take place today (Thursday) on the scale of Covid-19 infection within the meat processing industry. Deputy Denis Naughten secured the support of the members of the Dáil Business Committee to bring in the Minister for Agriculture to explain how several meat processors across the country have seen a large proportion of their employees contract Covid-19. Deputy Denis Naughten says three Cabinet Ministers will in fact be held accountable in a single Dáil session on the scale of Covid-19 infection in the meat processing industry. “Thursday evening (today) will now see the Minister for Agriculture answer for the 250 veterinary and technical staff involved in supervising and regulating the operations of 56 slaughter plants; the Minister for Health will answer for the public health & HSE management of the clusters of infection; and the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation will answer for the Health & Safety Authority which is responsible for the protection of workers. “I believe there has been a systemic failure across all three Government Departments which has resulted in 600+ staff, including up to half of the workforce in at least one meat plant, who have become infected. “This is now resulting in a jump of Covid-19 cases in communities which had very few positive cases to date and this is undermining the great efforts made to date by every citizen in the State to stop the spread of this virus”.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Service Matters in Roscommon town took the initiative and worked with its Irish-based manufacturer to create these reusable masks.

Managing Director Vincent Collins

Fighting Covid: Order your reusable masks ROSCOMMON COMPANY SERVICE MATTERS SUPPLYING MASKS, SANITISERS AND OTHER HYGIENE PRODUCTS

A Roscommon company is to the forefront in supplying reusable masks, sanitisers and other hygiene products as the country begins the process of ‘reopening’ during the Covid-19 pandemic. Service Matters took the initiative and worked with its Irish-based manufacturer to create these reusable masks. Managing Director Vincent Collins says: “Supplying reusable masks provides an alternative solution which doesn’t impede

the supply chain of disposable masks to our health service”. The company is also supplying other hygiene products such as hand sanitiser/sur-

REUSABLE

face sanitiser/plastic aprons and Covid-19 logo mats. Products are 100% cotton, reusable and machine washable. In business over 22 years, Service Matters’ HQ is at Golf Links Road, Roscommon, while the company also has depots in Dublin, Limerick and Tyrone. Service Matters employs over 100 people. They are experts in floor mat solutions and washroom services, and also on workwear and specialised laundry requirements across many industries.

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GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN | Tel. 090 662 7477 | E: info@servicematters.ie | W: www.servicematters.ie

3 for €15 (Red Mask) – 3 for €16.50 (Blue Mask) Product facts: • 100% Cotton • Reusable & Machine Washable at 60C

For orders contact our Shop on 090 66 27477 ALSO SUPPLYING OTHER HYGIENE PRODUCTS

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Normal People, Dana and me… If the TV programme ‘Normal People’ is the new normal nowadays, it’s a long way removed from the memories that I have of my secondary school days… The world and its mother (so we’re led to believe) are totally hooked on the new TV sensation, Normal People – a series which explores the sexual exploits of two young secondary school students. If that is the new normal nowadays, it’s a long way removed from the memories that I have of my secondary school days in the all-male boarding school of Cistercian College, Roscrea. It was 1963 when I made my first very tentative steps up the big stairs in Mount St. Joseph, as it was called. Amazingly, 57 years later a number of us – most of whom I wouldn’t recognise, and a lot of whom I haven’t seen in more than 50 years – have a WhatsApp group set up. This week, one of the lads reminded us that the biggest excitement we had was to be allowed to watch an occasional film in the rec (recreation centre), usually a western, but more especially to be let watch the Eurovision Song Contest, 1965-1968. Three of our top showband stars – Butch Moore, Dickie Rock and Sean Dunphy – took part in those early years, and although they didn’t win, the fact that we were let watch it copperfastened its importance in my mind. When Dana, the beautiful, young Rosemary Brown from Derry City, won it for Ireland for the first time, it still stands out for me as one of the great nights in Irish entertainment history. And so it was with a certain amount of sad-

ness that I watched a riveting documentary on the same Dana the other night, because somewhere down the line I had lost sight of what a beautiful looking girl and what a beautiful singer she was. It was only in revisiting her career that I remembered what a big star she was in the 1970s and ‘80s. The Eurovision win in Amsterdam was totally unexpected, and she revealed how the whirlwind success left her feeling overwhelmed and lonely, and that she tried to run away from it all one night, only for the local milkman to bring her back. She was right up there with the best of them, but while we never forgot the success of the likes of Terry Wogan, Eamonn Andrews or Val Doonican, it is my belief that Dana slipped out of our memories. In my opinion, that should never have been allowed to happen. The documentary touched on her venture into Irish politics in 1997 when she ran for the Presidency and finished in third place behind Mary McAleese, and how some time later she was elected as an MEP for Connaught Ulster. It also touched on how, despite attempts to ridicule her for her stand on abortion, and her Christian views, she was one of the first independant female politicians to take on the big parties and win. In 2011 she ran again for the Áras, but this

Great community spirit, GAA to the fore

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Back to the real world, and one of the great outcomes of this worldwide pandemic is the renewal of community spirit that has emerged everywhere and the tremendous response of local clubs – GAA, rugby and loads of others. Members of such bodies have been very active in supporting charities and helping vulnerable people during this very testing time. Here in Creggs, more than twenty footballers each ran 10k – in isolation of course, and mindful of all the restrictions – to raise funds for Join Our Boys, while similar efforts have taken place all over the country. However, as I watched Martin Logan’s programme ‘The Irish in the UK’ last week, it was interesting to see that GAA clubs all over England are doing the same thing. He visited four clubs in Birmingham that had come to-

gether to try and help the vulnerable people in their communities. As was pointed out in the programme, these clubs would fight hammer and tongs on the pitch in normal times but in these exceptional times, they all joined together to try and do what they could, and every Saturday morning they met up, took in mountains of food, which their volunteers then distributed to the needy. I often think the GAA doesn’t treat the English and American set-ups as seriously as they should, but the efforts of the Birmingham clubs showed that the Irish everywhere can be relied on to help when the chips are down, and no matter where they are they never forget where they came from, and always remember the traditions they grew up with. Well done, Birmingham.

time, allegations of sexual abuse against a family member emerged, and even though he was found not guilty and was duly acquitted, the effect it all had on Dana was profound. Indeed it is doubtful if she has got over it yet. At times the media have portrayed the original ‘Derry Girl’ as an almost a comic figure, and to my shame I was taken in by it all. However, seeing her story (so far) the other night has made me realise what a beautiful, talented woman she was and still is, and, ‘All kinds of Everything’ seems to sum up everything that has been thrown at her over the years. However, it is still a wonderful song that changed the way the Eurovision is viewed in Ireland, and paved the way for the success of people like Johnny Logan and Linda Martin. All I can say is well done Dana, may you carry on for many more years. I wonder do they still get to see it in Roscrea, or have they graduated to Normal People?

The long road back… Staying in the real world…and I am writing this on Monday morning as the first easing on restrictions takes place. Garden centres, hardware shops and other places are reopening, and judging by a video my wife, Carol, sent me as Ardcarne Garden Centre (where she works) opened at nine o’clock, they are in for a busy time. Let’s hope we don’t get over-excited, keep doing all the right things and please God we may some time see a return to something approaching normality.

And finally… Finally for this week, I come to number three on my top sporting memories, and this time it is an athletics one. Back in 1978 a slip of an Irish lad, John Treacy, surprised the world when he won the World Cross Country Championships in Glasgow, but it was the defence of his title the following year in Limerick that will live forever in my memory. The best ever field that had been assembled for such a race gathered in Limerick Racecourse, in conditions that would have tested even the toughest of horses, with mud and muck up to the runners’ knees. But despite a fall early on – and John being so slight that you would think a good gust of wind would blow him over – the young Waterford lad overcame everything that was thrown at him and retained his title in front of almost 100,000 ecstatic supporters. Seeing him, with his tiny frame, battle through the horrendous conditions, puts him right up there with my all-time sporting memories. He’s well worth his place in the top ten.

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Women’s Entrepreneurship Empower Programme to roll-out across West and North-West from June Programme will be delivered fully online due to college closures and physical distancing EMPOWER, the women’s entrepreneurship programme due to be delivered this month in the iHubs on GMIT, IT Sligo and Letterkenny IT campuses will now be delivered fully online from June, in line with the continuing physical distancing restrictions around Covid-19. The programme has been running in the Galway and Mayo GMIT iHubs since 2017 and expanded to counties Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal in 2019 under the Connacht Ulster Alliance (CUA). Funded by the Department of Justice and Equality and the European Social Fund, the application deadline has been extended to Friday, 29th of May 2020. All participants will need to have access to a device (PC or laptop) and have good broadband. Selected participants will engage online in-group discussions and in one-to-one mentoring sessions. Role models will also be introduced along with new modules on Leadership and Sales. Maria Staunton, EMPOWER Programme Manager, says: “The EMPOWER Programme is helping so many women build confidence, assess skills to implement ideas or scale busi-

nesses, and deliver market opportunities. Over 64 women in the West have completed the programme since 2017 and 146 people are currently employed by the businesses full-time and another seven part-time. “Labour force participation rates for women in Ireland remain low by international standards despite rising wages and more career opportunities and this EMPOWER programme aims to help redress that imbalance” explains Ms. Staunton. “CSO figures indicate that while the gender differential in the participation rates between men and women here is falling, it remains wide – 68.4 per cent for men compared to 56 per cent for women even though women make up over 50 per cent of the population. Women’s participation in the economy is vital if we are to get the economy on track again especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. In Ireland, female-led businesses remain an underdeveloped source of economic growth and jobs. “As part of a drive to increase the number of female entrepreneurs in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, GMIT Innovation Hubs set out in 2017 to increase participation with the launch of EMPOWER, expanding to Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal in the past year. Bringing more women entrepreneurs into the economy will help improve economic growth and stability and is particularly needed in the rural and peripheral West and North-West of Ireland.

“The women I have worked with on this programme have shown tenacity and determination to get their business up and running. Whilst I have observed high levels of ambition, some lack confidence and have low perceptions of capability. Sometimes aversion to debt and a conservative approach to risk-taking can hamper ambition. Often entrepreneurship is seen as providing more flexibility for

women, however work-life balance still remains a challenge, particularly so during this Covid-19 lockdown. The ‘guilt’ factor often comes into play amongst women as they spend time on their business whilst having other responsibilities. They face numerous challenges in terms of work-life balance something, which shouldn’t and cannot be overlooked by policy makers. Women often choose

self-employment for lifestyle reasons, particularly when the children are young, while men, to a larger extent, are driven by pecuniary motives. “One interesting observation is that these women are paving the way for future entrepreneurs. I often remark that female founders teach their children (boys and girls) all about entrepreneurship as they often have to have the kids beside them when on telephone calls, or have to bring them to meetings. I know some who involve their kids in helping to pack orders. One person on the programme even brought her four-week old son along on some occasions as she was breastfeeding him. It’s important for us on the programme to ensure there are no barriers put in place. In the future the bigger impact – apart from job creation – may be the impression they leave on their children. We talk about implementing entrepreneurship in schools but what better way to learn about entrepreneurship than listening to and being involved with your parents on topics such as new ideas, ordering stock, money, etc. This might be the bigger impact supporting women entrepreneurs has on the economy”, adds Ms. Staunton. The EMPOWER programme is funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund as part of the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020. The Local Enterprise Offices are also very supportive of the programme locally.

ARE YOU A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR LOOKING FOR SUPPORT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Applications are open for the EMPOWER GROWTH programme.

This is a free business development and mentoring programme designed for female entrepreneurs in business 18+ months.

Apply online: www.empowerher.ie Closing date: Friday, 29th May.

NewsPeople Urgent drainage works to commence – McDermott Cllr. Marty McDermott, left, has said he is delighted to confirm that pipe drainage works on the L6637 from Kenny’s pub to Emlaghmore will commence next week. “This is very welcomed as it has been a major concern and very dangerous for motorists and pedestrians due to the high levels of water in the drains. “This is one of the issues that I have been working on. I am delighted it is now being addressed and I would like to thank the Council,” Cllr. McDermott said.

Knockcroghery native wins €2000 Mary Mulvihill Award The Mary Mulvihill Association is delighted to announce that Jame Hayes, of Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon, who is a student of mathematical science at NUI Galway, is the winner of the 2020 Mary Mulvihill Award, a science media competition for third-level students. Each prize winner will also receive a copy of Ingenious Ireland, Mary’s county-by-country exploration of Ireland’s scientific and industrial heritage, which Four Courts Press republished last year. To mark the book’s republication, this year’s competition invited entries on the theme of ‘Our scientific heritage’.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Proposal to name ‘Casey’s roundabout’ after the late Dermot Earley Councillor Anthony Waldron has proposed that Roscommon County Council should name the roundabout known as ‘Casey’s roundabout’ in Roscommon Town in memory of the late Lt. General Dermot Earley. Cllr. Waldron said: “County Roscommon has historically had a number of famous sons who became figures of national significance such as Dr. Douglas Hyde, our first President, Percy

French, who became nationally and internationally famous as a songwriter, author and painter, and of course the county is the seat of the O’Connor Don family, probably the oldest royal pedigree in Europe. Also, Fr. Edward Flanagan (of Boystown renown) and Fr. Michael O’Flanagan too. “However, in modern times the county has been home to an outstanding military and sporting

figure in the person of the late Lieutenant General Dermot Earley. Lieutenant General Earley had a stellar sporting career in gaelic football. He was considered to be one of the greatest footballers not to have won an All-Ireland; in fact, he was considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. “In relation to his military career, he reached the highest rank and appointment as Chief of Staff (COS) of the Defence Forces. Lieutenant

General Earley’s untimely passing was a great tragedy, not only for his family, but for Irish society in general”. Councillor Waldron feels that Roscommon County Council should honour Dermot Earley’s memory by naming the roundabout in his honour. Councillor Waldron proposes actively pursuing this idea with the Council and seeking cross-party support for his initiative.

‘Unjust’ treatment of women returning from maternity leave Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy says it is “discriminatory” and “unjust” that women on maternity leave have been disqualified from the operation of the Covid-19 wage subsidy scheme. Senator Murphy has called on the Government to introduce changes to ensure that women who are returning from maternity leave are not treated in a less favourable manner than others.

Roscommon Mart Report Online sale of weanlings: There was another good entry of weanlings at our second online sale. There was a brisk trade for weanling heifers with lots averaging from €2.45 per kilo up to a high of €3.34 per kilo. There was a firm trade for weanling bulls with prices fetching from an average of €2.39 per kilo up to €3.38 per kilo. Again, this week buyers bid both on site and remotely. Online sales continue each Tuesday for weanlings. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, 21st of May. Please note that all stock must be penned by 1.30 pm. Stock arriving late will be not be accepted. Online sale commences at 4 pm. Viewing time for buyers from 2.15 pm to 3.45 pm. Weanling heifers made from an average of €2.45 per kilo up to €3.34 per kilo. Sample prices: Char X 445 kgs €1210 - €2.71 per kilo, Lim X 390 kgs €1120 - €2.87 per kilo, Char X 405 kgs €1070 - €2.64 per kilo, Char X 390 kgs €1060 - €2.71 per kilo, Char X 310 kgs €890 - €2.87 per kilo, Char X 310 kgs €900 – €2.90 per kilo, Char X 245 kgs €820 €3.34 per kilo, 2 Lim X 262.50 kgs €790 - €3.00 per kilo Char X 245 kgs €820 - €3.34 per kilo. Weanling bulls made from an average of €2.39 per kilo up to €3.38 per kilo. Sheep Assembly Sale, Wednesday May 20th: There was a larger entry of sheep on offer at Wednesday’s sheep assembly. Spring lambs made up to €136 for 48.6kgs. Stag ewes made from €75 up to €124 per head. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Our next sheep assembly is next Wednesday, 27th of May. Bookings for sheep is on Tuesday, 26th of May from 11 am to 1 pm. Sheep to be penned by 10 am on day of assembly. Sample prices: Spring lambs: 48.6kgs €136, 50kgs €135, 56.5kgs €135, 45.5kgs €133.5, 48.4kgs €133.5, 47.3kgs €133, 45.3kgs €131.5, 44.2kgs €130.5, 43.2kgs €129.5,42.5 €127, 42.4kgs €124. Cast ewes made from €75 to €124 per lot. Ewes with one lamb at foot made up to €208. Ewes with two lambs at foot made up to €260.

Michael McGarry and Seamus and Patrick Gaynor busy at work at Ratra, Tibohine, Co. Roscommon earlier this week. Picture: Michael McCormack

Hidden connections Grace Robinson Carroll, a student of the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon, made an interesting discovery recently… < GRACE ROBINSON CARROLL

It is strange how you can go through your life day by day and there are amazing things that you do not know about yourself and the world around you, how there are… hidden connections. This story is a prime example. My mother (Samantha Robinson Carroll) took a DNA test and also had a paper trail done to try and uncover our family tree and see whom we are related to. My mother had come across many people that we are related

to – cousins, etc. – and then we came across an amazing discovery. The photograph alongside shows former President of America, John F. Kennedy, with three other people. The amazing discovery that we have made is that we are third cousins to JFK. Allow me to explain how. The lady standing directly behind JFK is one of my family members. Her name was Margaret Bernice ‘Bunny’ Fitzpatrick and she married Rose Kennedy’s brother, Thomas Acton Fitzgerald. Margaret’s spouse was JFK’s uncle and his two children are first cousins to JFK. John Fitzpatrick was a brother of my greatgrandmother, Eliza Fitzpatrick. Now back to the photo: the lady who’s standing behind JFK is Margaret, and the other lady was Margaret’s mother-in-law, Josephine Hannon Fitzgerald. The man on the right was Tom Acton Fitzgerald. Margret is related to us through my

mother’s side.This is truly an amazing discovery – to find out that we are related to one of the most iconic people in history. My family – mother (Samantha), brother (Jack Robinson Carroll), myself and my grandparents (Patricia and Michael) are very excited and happy about this discovery. So, as you can see, you can have a hidden connection and potentially go through life not realising it. I am just glad that my family has discovered ours! One of our Kennedy cousins has written some very interesting books. His name is Brian Kennedy. He is truly a wonderful man. We are in touch with our Kennedy cousins, which is truly wonderful, as we are getting to know family members that we were not aware of before having this wonderful experience. We are very proud of our newly-discovered connections!

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Phase 1 Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our lives. Now, thanks to your patience and sacriﬁce, we are taking the ﬁrst steps on a 5-phase reopening of our country. It is important to be aware of Public Health restrictions and guidance:

Work from home if you can. Bear in mind that most workplaces, especially offices, remain closed.

The 5km limit applies to outdoor exercise, social visits and visits to public amenities.

Social distancing, hygiene measures and coughing and sneezing etiquette must always be observed. Wash your hands regularly.

Stay home and self-isolate if sick.

Older and vulnerable people who are cocooning should stay indoors, apart from brief outdoor exercise.

These are some of the things that change from Monday, 18th May:

Community Health

Education & Childcare

Economic Activity & Work

Retail, Services & Commercial Activity

Cultural & Social

Transport & Travel

Small groups of up to 4 people – family or friends – may meet outdoors within 5km of home.

School and college buildings may reopen for teachers and staﬀ for the organisation and distribution of learning materials, related activities and essential administration

Construction workers where it is safe to do so can return to work.

Certain essential retailers and service providers may reopen – see below.

Non-essential overseas travel should be avoided.

Farmers’ markets, gardeners and other outdoor workers return to work: social distancing requirements continue to apply.

Garden centres and other retail outlets that are primarily outdoors may reopen.

Outdoor public amenities and tourism sites, e.g. carparks, beaches and mountain walks may reopen provided social distancing can be maintained.

It is recommended that face coverings be worn in public places such as shops and on busy public transport — go to gov.ie for guidance and advice on face coverings. Always maintain social distancing.

The purpose of school and college opening is solely to facilitate remote learning.

Exercise must take place within 5km of home.

Remote working continues for all others that can do so. The Return to Work Safely Protocol is the operative guide for employers and employees.

Remote working continues for all who can do so. The Return to Work Safely Protocol is the operative guide for employers and employees.

Outdoor public sports amenities, e.g. playing pitches, tennis courts and golf courses may reopen provided that social distancing can be maintained. Outdoor sporting and ﬁtness activities, either individually or in groups of no more than four people, are permitted provided that social distancing can be maintained and there is no physical contact. Note that the 5km from home restriction applies to all outdoor activity.

The following are the main retail activities that may operate from 18th May for essential supplies and services:

Food, beverages and newspapers (retail and wholesale) Household consumer products for safety and sanitation of homes and businesses Pharmacies and retailers providing pharmaceuticals or dispensing services Opticians/Optometrists outlets providing hearing test services, selling hearing aids and appliances Retail of medical and orthopaedic goods in specialised stores

Please stay the course, and please continue to save lives by staying apart. Details of the phased reopening of our country are available on gov.ie/phase1

Fuel stations and heating fuel providers Retailers involved in the sale, supply and repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and bicycles and related facilities Essential items for health and welfare of animals Laundries and Drycleaners Banks, Post Oﬃces and Credit Unions Safety items e.g. work clothes and Personal Protective Equipment

Hardware stores, builders’ merchants and stores selling supplies and tools essential for gardening, farming and agriculture Oﬃce products and services Electrical, IT and phone sales, repair and maintenance services.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Reeling in the ARCHIVES

News, views and something to amuse…

9 YEARS AGO From Paul Healy column

Show-time, sunshine and a good time

The world might be turning on its head – the euro in peril, world economies in disarray, banks transformed from safe havens to sives – but there was a reassuring sense of tradition in evidence on Saturday last where Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show was staged. The sun, as elusive as a Government Minister in August, turned up for the day and its arrival set the tone for a lovely, relaxed show during which participants and spectators could bask in rare sunshine and soak up the atmosphere and tradition, the reassurance that some things do not change. The world might be turning on its head but there were still tarts to be made. There was a good crowd from early morning and a high standard of entry in the various (and numerous) competitions. When the Roscommon People arrived it was mid-afternoon. At the entrance the friendly face of Micheal Gleeson (one of many dutifil volunteers), whose thoughts were beginning to turn just a little to that evening’s Roscommon Gaels v Elphin game. After a greeting there, we moved into the heart of Hannon’s field and savoured the atmosphere, inhaled that great tradition. On our left, kids had their photographs taken at an exhibition that depicted how life was in the ‘olden days’. Further on, there was a great assortment of dogs patiently taking part in the dog classes, all shapes and sizes and some in very fetching attire (including one as ‘Posh’ Beckham, though there was no Claudine or Robbie Keane entry). There seemed to be less stalls than in the past, no doubt a reflection on the economic landscape, but there was a great sense of community, this event a wonderful example of voluntary effort and a happy occasion all round. Sean Beirne looked like the epitome of contentment as he ‘mceed’, commentating and commenting in relaxed, knowledgeable manner, at ease with the microphone – watch out, Eugene Murphy! Various horse sections were still attracting great interest and earlier in the day the cattle classes had done likewise. Meanwhile there was much interest in the bonny baby competition and indeed in the quest to be most glamorous granny! Well done to the organising committee – and here’s to next year! (From 26th August 2011)

It’s a big day for Ballintleva NS!

The Bishop of Elphin Most Rev. Christopher Jones will bless and officially open the recently refurbished and greatly enlarged Ballintleva School building and grounds on Sunday, 25th of September at 4 pm. All parents, current and former pupils and everybody associated with the school and the wider community is invited to attend this special ceremony. (From 16th September 2011)

Kilrooskey woman’s thanks!

Michelle Leonard from Corry, Kilrooskey has thanked everyone who supported her recent pub quiz fundraiser & raffle in Roscommon last month, which raised just over €3,300 for Trocaire’s work on the east Africa famine. Michelle was overwhelmed by the support she

From 2018: A lone Roscommon supporter is pictured among Dublin fans on Hill 16 in Croke Park during the opening round of All-Ireland SFC Super 8s (Quarter-Finals phase) matches last Saturday. Roscommon now have a new ‘hill to climb’ – they face Donegal this Saturday in the Super 8s. Picture: Michael McCormack

From 2016: Looking the part! Hazel Murray and Ruairi Tiernan are busy rehearsing ahead of The Convent of Mercy’s production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Picture: Andrew Fox

received from local businesses. “The important thing is how much money we raised, which will help families in east Africa to cope with the devastating drought there”. (From 7th October 2011)

7 YEARS AGO Fourmilehouse Community Centre a hub of activity < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Fourmilehouse Community Centre has thrived since it first opened its door on June 6, 1997 – the day Bertie Ahern was first elected Taoiseach.  Bernie Kearney, chairperson of the community centre’s committee, explains how it has flourished since the very beginning. “Long before 1997, we held meetings first to see what exact type of centre we wanted”, he said. “Now, the community centre is busy four or five nights a week; Monday to Friday is totally booked all the time. It’s also fairly well placed in the middle of the county”. A diverse range of events are now held at centre – including political, sporting, entertainment and educational events. (From 20th December 2013)

From 2016: It’s a dog’s life: Cassie watches on as the Roscommon senior footballers overcome Sligo IT in the FBD League at St. Croan’s grounds, Enfield on a scoreline of 1-20 to 0-10. Picture: Andrew Fox

4 YEARS AGO From Paul Healy’s column

Why we’ll always watch Wilder…

When we were in Boston last year, I was able to pick up a few books that you might not come across over here. They included a biography of Johnny Carson (the late, great chat show host) and Gene Wilder’s autobiography. I recently read the Carson book. I’m glad I haven’t opened the first page of the Wilder book yet, and am not looking forward to closing the last page. If you love great comedy acting, you had to be wild about Wilder. Some weekend tributes to Gene Wilder, who died last week, noted that he wasn’t that funny ‘in real life’. That’s irrelevant. He wasn’t a comedian. He was an acting genius, also a gifted comedy writer, and, by all accounts, a really lovely man, untouched by the Hollywood/showbiz madness. In fact I would go as far as to say he surely deserves to be remembered as one of the most compelling and brilliant comedy actors of all time. Wilder fans know the body of work…The Producers, Young Frankenstein, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Blazing Saddles, Stir Crazy, See No Evil, Hear No Evil and others. In Blazing Saddles, Wilder’s character (Jim) is

telling the new sheriff (Bart) how he used to be the fasted gunslinger around… until he got too fond of whiskey. Jim: ‘Look at my hand’. (Raises right hand and holds it level). Bart: ‘Steady as a rock’. Jim: (Raises left hand, which is shaking violently). ‘Yeah, but I shoot with this one!’ Gene Wilder will brighten the lives of generations to come for years to come. I think we will watch his finest films with renewed joy and nostalgia in the future. (From 9th September 2016)

Strokestown Choir strikes super silver!

All the right notes were struck on Saturday morning in the dome at the Athlone Institute of Technology as the Strokestown Community Games Choir recorded a first award for the Strokestown area in the choir competition. The girls won silver medals and were just pipped to the gold medal by Clare. This choir represented Roscommon earlier this year at a New Year’s Day celebration in the Convention Centre, Dublin to commence Ireland’s 1916 celebrations. The girls are all pupils of St. Mary’s Primary School, Strokestown and choir leader, Norma, is a member of staff in the school. (From 19th August 2016)

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

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Blueprint Autos is now open for business! Tommie from Blueprint Autos explains some of the common problems occurring with vehicles parked up during lockdown and how these can be avoided.

Tommie from Blueprint Autos

It is often assumed that a parked vehicle will not require any maintenance this unfortunately is not true. Doing little or no mileage in your car can be as detrimental to your vehicle’s health as doing high mileage or overworking it. Covid 19 restrictions have caused most vehicles to be either parked up or only driven for short trips. The most common problems arising from this are flat batteries, sticking or noisy brakes, flat tyres, diesel particulate filters blocking up and even suspension springs collapsing. Below we have outline some of the causes and solutions to these issues.

Flat Batteries This is the most common issue we are seeing. There are several reasons your vehicle’s battery will become flat. Firstly, the most obvious reason is that your battery is worn out and needs to be replaced however it is wrong to assume that this is the only reason. Simply starting your vehicle regularly and travelling short distances can slowly reduce the charge in your battery as it does not get enough time to fully recharge. Secondly, we have also seen issues where a vehicle’s electrical system can drain a battery due to a fault causing a consumable to stay running while the vehicle is parked. This can often go unnoticed when the vehicle is in regular use. Thirdly, your car’s security system and computers use a small amount of current even whilst parked which, over time can flatten your battery. We advise having your battery charged and tested before replacing it. It could save you the cost of a new battery. It is also particularly important to point out that jump starting modern vehicles can be risky and should be avoided where possible. Sudden spikes in your vehicle’s electrical system can cause costly damage. Modern batteries do not take kindly to being over charged and should ideally be charged using a modern smart battery charger or of course where possible taken on a long drive. Noisy & Sticking brakes The most common braking issue we are seeing is noisy brakes

which can be caused by corrosion built up on the surface of the brake discs. In most cases a drive will clean up the discs with more severe cases needing the discs and brake pads to be replaced. In more severe cases rust and corrosion caused by moisture build up in old brake fluid or dirt getting in past worn out rubber protectors can cause your brakes to stick on or seize up. This corrosion process can be accelerated by lack of heat and movement in the braking system while your vehicle is parked up. In this case

the only solution is to strip down and repair. It is also important to change your vehicle’s brake fluid on time and keep your brakes well maintained. Flat Tyres Tyres can deflate over time when not in use for several reasons. Slow punctures, faulty valves and when not in use the seal between the wheel rim and the tyre can leak. Regularly checking tyre pressures is important but can be overlooked while your vehicle is parked up. Storing a foot pump in

• Sales • Service • Repair • DIAGNOSTIC SPECIALISTS • 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT • HYBRID and EV SERVICING • AIR CON SERVICE & REPAIRS • TYRES CONTACTLESS COLLECTION AND DROP-OFF SERVICE AVAILABLE WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS ~ Finance available on new and used vehicles ~ Winner Independent Workshop of the Year 2020

your car boot may help avoid having to change a flat tyre just when you need your car most. Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) Blocking With the current travel restrictions most cars are only doing short trips, and this can be problematic for the DPF system. The diesel particulate filter is a filter in the exhaust that catches soot particles from the engine. In a process called regeneration this soot is then burned off during drives approximately 15kms or more. We can manually start this process using a diagnostic tool however in more severe cases we may have to use a chemical process to clean the particulate filter. The best prevention is of course to drive the vehicle to keep the DPF clean. BChips and scrapes on the springs coating caused by grit and stones from the roads can allow rust or corrosion to get into the springs metal. This causes the spring to fail eventually. This process can happen over time even when the vehicle is in use but like with the brakes rust can thrive while your vehicle is parked up for long periods and cause spring failure to accelerate. If you are having any of these issues or any other issues with your vehicle, why not contact us now. We have reopened and are offering a free collection and drop off service, so you won’t have to leave the house.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

‘Commun-athon’ raises over €9,000 for charity 29 children who took part in a ‘Commun-athon’ on what should have been their First Holy Communion day last Saturday have raised over €9,000 for charity! The children, all 2nd class pupils in St. Coman’s Wood Primary School in Roscommon, were meant to be receiving their First Holy Communion on the day, but that big event was of course postponed due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Goretti Dwyer, whose daughter Juliette was one of those involved, explains how the novel fundraiser came about. “We wanted to mark the Communion Day in some way, so we came up with this idea. I mentioned it to a number of parents, and the response was great”. Initially, the parents were planning to ask the children to run one marathon between them. In fact, they ran the equivalent of two! The event started at 12 noon on Saturday, with each child walking or running 3 km (from their own home). Many of the children wore communion dresses or suits. Some children who are not due to receive First Holy Communion also took part in the event. Goretti: “It was a fantastic day. The kids have raised so much money. Our initial target was €500, but by Wednesday (yesterday) we had passed the €9,000 mark, with €9,076 raised!” All proceeds are going to the Irish Cancer Society. Goretti: “People have been wonderful. We are overwhelmed by the response. On the day itself, neighbours came out (in their respective areas) and cheered the children on. Some had bunting up, while motorists hooted car horns. It created a lovely positive atmosphere, which is so badly needed at this time”. The First Communion Class of 2020 in St. Coman’s Wood will always remember this special event. “This was a way of showing them the impact they can make with a single act of kindness. And they will of course have their First Holy Communion day in the future. They have that to look forward to. In the meantime, they have made a real difference through this Commun-athon” concluded a delighted Goretti Dwyer.

Chilling with Derry Girls Set in 1990’s Derry, this sitcom follows the life of four Catholic schoolgirls navigating their teen years during the end of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 98% IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

3 things to do this week .... Write an old fashioned letter to a friend or loved one Take time to send an old fashioned letter to someone you haven’t seen in a while and keep each letter you receive for nostalgic purposes! Yoga and meditation Take time to relax and reflect with meditation or try out new yoga moves to stay active in the summer. Keep a Journal every day Fill up an old diary or journal with your thoughts and feelings and what your day consisted of to look back on in years to come.

Monty Python’s Flying Circus In this time-honoured surreal sketch-comedy series, the Monty Python players make their mark with a winning mix of wit, ingenuity and brilliant timing (and a penchant for mockery and cross-dressing). Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100% IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

Planet Earth II Presented and narrated by Sir David Attenborough, viewers are treated to rich and intimate views of the natural diversity of our planet. Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100% IMDb Rating: 9.5/10

Brownie recipe

Ingredients 1 cup of cocoa powder 2 cups of caster sugar 1 cup of plain flour ½ a cup of butter (melted) 2 eggs 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract Method 1. Mix the cocoa powder and caster sugar in a bowl. 2. Sieve the flour in and mix with a wooden spoon. 3. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until it forms a thick batter. 4. Add greaseproof paper to a tray and add the batter. 5. Bake them in the oven at 175 degrees for 40 minutes. Enjoy!

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

The

Barbara’s virtual quiz raises €2k

D News page

On the 3rd of May, a ‘social distancing’ (virtual) table quiz night was hosted by Kilteevan woman, Barbara Gilleran. Thirty-five teams from across the globe competed for a place on the podium. Roscommon natives connected from the UK and US, as well as people from Ireland, Canada, Australia and the UAE. A total of €2,000 was raised. These funds will be divided between Croi, Heart & Stroke Foundation and Alone (the latter provides support for elderly people who are feeling isolated). Alone recently revealed their helpline is currently fielding 1,100 calls per day. Barbara’s employer, Coupa Software, will contribute $500 to this fundraising event. Barbara says “Go raibh mile maith agat to all who supported and gave so generously”.

Marie and Michael Kelly, their grandchildren Alex, Olivia and Elliot, and (back, left) their son Martin and his wife, Colette. Picture: Michael McCormack Kilteevan woman, Barbara Gilleran.

AIT researcher aiming to help cure walking abnormalities

An Athlone-based PhD candidate is using augmented reality (AR) to help cure people of walking abnormalities which, if left untreated, can lead to ‘wear and tear’, arthritis and serious injuries. Thiago Braga Rodrigues, a Brazilian biomedical engineer studying at Athlone IT, is flipping traditional rehabilitation therapy on its head with an innovative technology-led approach that empowers patients. “Traditionally, patients rely solely on guided feedback which is given in a clinical setting and requires the presence of an expert to inform the rehabilitation or re-training. It also necessitates a patient travelling many times to and from a clinic,” he explains. As an alternative, Thiago is using AR ‘smart’ glasses to help patients correct their walking abnormalities. His goal is to help patients better understand and react to feedback so that they can improve their gait in the comfort of their own home. AR is an immersive mixed-reality technology, synonymous with apps like Instagram and Snapchat, that superimposes static and moving images on a realworld environment. According to the Athlone Institute of Technology researcher, the technology’s potential is only starting to be explored. The PhD candidate, whose research is funded by the Irish Research Council of Ireland, came to Athlone Institute of Technology from Harvard Medical School, USA, where he studied biomechanics and bioinformatics. Soon to be graduating with his doctorate, Mr Braga Rodrigues has taken up a post as a lecturer within the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics at Athlone Institute of Technology.

Pictured is Thiago Braga Rodrigues, a PhD candidate within the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics at Athlone Institute of Technology.

A garden greeting… joint th 85 birthday celebration! Ballygar couple Michael and Marie Kelly, both of whom are celebrating their 85th birthday in May, received a nice surprise last week! Michael and Marie’s grandchildren arranged a surprise joint 85th birthday celebration, with the help of their parents. Observing social distancing and related guidelines, the children made a lovely greeting display which they erected in their grandparents’ garden. Family members then gathered for a brief outdoor celebration, reflecting the Covid-19 climate. Marie, a native of Kilcock, Co. Kildare, and Michael, a native of Ballygar, were both born in May 1935. They met in New York, and married there in 1964. The couple returned to Ireland in 1967. They settled in Ballygar, where they raised five children. Their son, Martin, told the Roscommon People: “Last week’s small gathering was lovely. This time last year our parents hosted a gathering with relatives, friends and neighbours, over 70 people in all. This year, Covid has changed everything for now. It was nice that we were able to acknowledge the fact that they are both celebrating their 85th”. Martin said that both their parents have a wonderful outlook on life and are remaining positive, despite the current pandemic. “Dad longs for the day when sport returns and Mom is looking forward to her favourite restaurant reopening, when she can share a meal and a bottle of wine with her family”. Martin concluded: “We as a family are very proud of Mom and Dad. They want to wish all their relatives, neighbours and friends well, and they look forward to seeing them all soon”.

Back, left to right: Marie Kelly and her husband, Michael; their granddaughter Siafra (Conroy). Front, left to right: grandchildren Alex, Olivia and Elliot. Picture: Michael McCormack

Marie and Michael Kelly, pictured at their surprise joint 85th birthday party last week. Picture: Michael McCormack

Grandchildren Alex, Olivia and Elliot made a special effort in these difficult times to celebrate the joint 85th birthdays of their grandparents, Michael and Marie. Picture: Michael McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

WE’RE HERE Everyone is having to adapt right now. And while we’re all restricted, the team at Fred Kilmartin are doing their best to help you keep life moving.

From May 18th our Service Department will re-open Please contact us in advance on 090 96 30800 or Email service@fredkilmartinltd.ie for your appointment Customers may avail of our on line booking service at www.fredkilmartinltd.ie. We offer a collection and delivery service where our customers are unable to get to us. For the Safety of our Customers Social Distance Guidelines and all Covid-19 Safeguards will be enforced, ALL VEHICLES SERVICED IN OUR WORKSHOP WILL BE SANITISED USING STATE-OF-THE-ART SANY CAR SYSTEM

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ATHLONE ROAD, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY. ATHLONE ROAD, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY. BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY P:090 090963 963 0800 Michael: 0871335921 1335921 0800 Michael: 087 1335921 P:P:090 963 0800 Michael: 087 E:sales@fredkilmartinltd.ie sales@fredkilmartinltd.ie John: 087 4165623 John: 087 4165623 E:E:service@fredkilmartinltd.ie www.fredkilmartinltd.ie www.fredkilmartinltd.ie 086 3489164 www.fredkilmartinltd.ie Micheal: Micheal: 086 3489164

Ballinasloe Ballinasloe Years ServingMotorists Motorists OverOver 50 50 Years Serving Quality pre owned cars - Finance Available

WE’RE HERE

BANK IS WILLING TOAnd LEND - CHECK OUR FINANCE Everyone isOUR having to adapt right now. while we’re allOUT restricted, the teamOFFERS at ustotoday forkeep a Quote Fred Kilmartin are doingContact their best help you life moving.

From May 18th our From May 18thService our Service Department will re-open Department will re-open

FORD C-MAX 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 95PS ..................................... €17,300 2019 2010 2019 2016 2019 2016 2011 PEUGEOT 5008 1.6140HDI SPORT 110BHP 5DR.............. 2015 FORD MONDEO VIGNALE 4DR 2.0 187PS HEV AUTO .......... €40,500 FORD ZETECTITANIUM 60PS (CHOICE) FORD BHP90PS 6G 5DR ............................................ FORD MONDEO ...................................... €40,500 FORD MONDEO VIGNALE VIGNALE4DR 4DR2.0 2.0187PS 187PSHEV HEVAUTO AUTO.................................. €40,500 FORD FIESTA FOCUS1.25 1.5 TDCI 95PS ......................................................... (CHOICE) .....................................€12,950 €15,900 FORD MONDEO FOCUS 1.6ZETEC TDCI STYLE ........................................... 2009 OPEL ASTRA 1.7 CDTI SPORT GTC 110PS ............................. €14,900 FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM DCT 120PS ...................... €27,500 FORD FIESTA 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 75PS ..................................................................€12,900 FOED MONDEO 1.8 TDCI ZETEC 125 BHP 6 SPEED 5DR .................... FORD FOCUS .................................................. €27,500 FORD FOCUS 1.5 1.5TDCI TDCITITANIUM TITANIUMDCT DCT120PS 120PS ............................................ €27,500 FORD FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC 60PS (CHOICE) ................................................. €12,950 PEUGEOT 5008 SX 1.6HDI 5DR FORD S-MAX 1.8 TDCI LX .................................................. 5 SPEED 125PS ................. FORDECOSPORT MONDEO 1.6 TDCI ZETEC 115PS (CHOICE) ................. €17,950 €18,900 2018 FORD 1.5 TDCI ZETEC...................................................................... FORD FIESTA 1.25 STYLE ..................................................................... 2018 2018 FORD FIESTA 1.5 1.5 TDCITDCI ZETEC 75PS .......................................................... €12,900 2010 FORD MONDEO 1.8 TDCI GHIA 5DR 125 .................... FORDC-MAX FIESTA 75PS....................................... €17,300 €POA HYUNDAI IX20 1.4 CRDI DELUXE 90HP ............................... €19,900 FORD 1.5 TDCI ZETEC ZETEC 95PS .................................................................. 2009 HYUNDAITITANIUM IX20 1.4 CRDI DELUXE 90HP ............................................................€19,900 GALAXY 2.0TDCI 150PS PowerShift......................................... €42,100 FORD ECOSPORT 1.5 TDCI ZETEC.............................................................. €17,950 FORD MONDEO ZETEC 140 BHP 6G 5DR .................................... FOCUS 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 95PS (CHOICE) ................................ €14,900 FORD MONDEO 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 120PS (CHOICE) ......... €28,900 2015 FORD S-MAX 1.8 1.8 TDCI LX 5 SPEED 125PS .......................................... FORD MONDEO 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 120PS..................................................... (CHOICE) ..................................... €28,900 HYUNDAI IX20 1.4 CRDI DELUXE 90HP €19,900 FORD C-MAX 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 95PS .......................................................... €17,300 FOED CARSMONDEO TO CLEARTDCI ZETEC 125 BHP 6 SPEED 5DR .............. 2014ASTRA 1.7 CDTI SPORT GTC 110PS...........................................................€14,900 FORD KA ZETEC 1.2 85PS 5SPEED 4DR ............................... €14,885 OPEL FORD MONDEO 1.8 TDCI GHIA 5DR 125.............................................. FORD KA ZETEC 1.2 85PS 5SPEED 4DR ............................................................ €14,885 FORD TITANIUM85PS 120PS......................................... (CHOICE) ................................€16,900 €28,900 FOCUS ZETEC 1.5TDCI 1.4 5DRD4D ...................................................................... €14,900 2011 TOYOTA COROLLA TERRA ........................................ €12,400 FORDMONDEO FIESTA1.5 1.1TDCI TITANIUM FORD MONDEO 1.6 TDCI ZETEC 115PS (CHOICE) .............................................€18,900 FORD FIESTA 1.1 TITANIUM 85PS ......................................................................€16,900 FORD ZETEC 1.2 5SPEED85PS 4DR .................................................... €14,885 2015 CARS TO30800 CLEAR MONDEO 2.0TDCI ZETEC 140PS ................................ RENAULT 1.5 75PS DCI 110 DYNAMIQUE ................ €10,900 FORDKAFIESTA 1.1 85PS TITANIUM ......................................... €16,900 Please contact DCT us in advance on 090CARS 96TO FORD FIESTAMEGANE 1.5 TDCI ZETEC ......................................................................€POA CLEAR FORD FIESTA 1.1 TITANIUM 85PS ......................................................................€16,900 FORD FIESTA 1.1 TITANIUM 85PS ............................................................. €16,900 OPEL ASTRA 1.7 CDTI SPORT GTC 110PS .................................................. €14,900 2008 2008 FORD FIESTA 1.25or ZETEC 60PS (CHOICE) ............................ €13,900for your appointment KA ZETEC 1.2 85PS 5SPEED 4DR .......................................... €14,885 2014 Email service@fredkilmartinltd.ie 2008 2017 2017 FORD MONDEO (CHOICE) ....................................... €18,900 RENAULT SCENIC 1.4 16V ............................................. RENAULT SCENIC 1.4ROYALE 16V ROYALE ............................. 2013 2017 TOYOTA COROLLA1.61.4TDCI D4DZETEC TERRA115PS ....................................................................€12,400 RENAULT SCENIC 1.4 16V ROYALE ...................................................... VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2.0 TDI HIGHLINE....................................................... €22,900 FORD FOCUS ZETEC 115 BHP 5DR ............................. VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2.0 TDI HIGHLINE ................................................ €22,900 FORD FIESTA 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 75PS .......................................................... €POA FORD FOCUS ZETEC 115 BHP 5DR ............................................. VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 1.6 TDI MATCH .................................... €13,950 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2.0 TDI HIGHLINE ........................... €22,900 RENAULT MEGANE 1.5 DCI 110 DYNAMIQUE DCT ............................................€12,900 FORD FOCUS ZETEC 1153DR.......................................................... BHP 5DR....................................................... TOYOTA RAV4 2.0 LUNA 2007 RENAULT FLUENCE 1.5 DCI 90 DYNAMIQUE ........................ €9,900 Customers may avail of our on line booking service at www.fredkilmartinltd.ie. TOYOTA RAV4 2.0 LUNA SPORT .................................€27,900 €27,900 TOYOTA RAV4 2.0D-4D D-4DD-4D LUNASPORT SPORT.............................................................. ....................................................... €27,900 2014 OPEL CORSA SXI 1.2 FORD FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC 60PS (CHOICE).........................................................€13,900 2007 HYUNDAI TUCSON 1.7 .......................................................... KIA CERATO 1.6 CRDI LX ............................................ NISSAN QASHQAI ACENTA DCI 5DR ................................ €13,950 HYUNDAI TUCSON 1.7EXECUTIVE CRDI EXECUTIVE .............................€24,950 €24,950 HYUNDAI TUCSON 1.7CRDI CRDI EXECUTIVE ................................................... €24,950 TOYOTA COROLLA 1.4 D4D TERRA IS ............................................................ €12,400 2007 2013 KIA CERATO 1.61.4I CRDI ...................................................................... FORD MONDEO 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 120PS (CHOICE) ............................................. €18,950 FORD FOCUS 1.4I LX ................................................... FORD MONDEO 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM 140PS 5DR ................. €10,950 FORD MONDEO 1.5 TDCI 120PS (CHOICE) ............... €18,950 FORD MONDEO 1.5 TDCI ZETECZETEC 120PS (CHOICE) ...................................... €18,950 RENAULT MEGANE 1.5 DCI 110 DYNAMIQUE DCT ...................................... €12,900 FORD FOCUS LX LX ................................................................. VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 1.6 TDI MATCH................................................................. €13,950 We off er a collection and delivery service where our customers are unable to get to us. FORD FOCUS 1.4I LX ........................................................................... FORD KUGA 1.5 TDCI ST-LINE 120PS ............................................................... €26,900 2005 FORD MONDEO ZETEC ED ECO SS 115PS ............................. €8,500 FORD KUGA 1.5 TDCI ST-LINE 120PS ................................... €26,900 FORD KUGA 1.5 offer TDCI ST-LINE a 120PS ........................................................ €26,900 FORDservice FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC 60PS (CHOICE) ................................................. €13,900 We collection and delivery our customers are unable to get to us RENAULT FLUENCE 1.5 DCIwhere 90 DYNAMIQUE ..................................................... €9,900 FORD KUGA 1.5 TITANIUM 120PS ............................................................ PEUGEOT 407 4DR .................................................... 2012 FORD KUGA 1.5 TITANIUM 120PS ................................€26,900 €26,900 FORD KUGA 1.5TDCI TDCITDCI TITANIUM 120PS .................................................... €26,900 2013 COMMERCIAL - INCLUSIVE OF VAT NISSAN QASHQAI ACENTA IS DCI 5DR ............................................................ €13,950 COMMERCIAL - INCLUSIVE OF VATSafeguards FORD KUGA 1.5 120PS ............................................................ COMMERCIAL - INCLUSIVE OF VAT FOCUS 1.6 TDCI EDGE 95PS.................................................. €10,900 FORD FOCUS 1.5TITANIUM TDCI TITANIUM 95PS ...............................€26,500 €18,900 FORD KUGA 1.5TDCI TDCI TITANIUM 120PS .................................................... €26,500 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 1.6ofTDI MATCH ......................................................... €13,950 2018 For the Safety our Customers Social Distance Guidelines and all Covid-19 FORD MONDEO 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM 140PS 5DR ..............................................€12,900 For the Safety of our Customers Social Distance Guidelines and all Covid-19 Safeguards will be enforced 2017 FORD FIESTA 1.4 TDCI ........................................................... €8,900 2017 FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDC STYLE 95PS ...................................... €18,500 FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 95PS ............................................................€18,900 FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 95PS .................................................... €18,900 RENAULT FLUENCE 1.5ED DCIECO 90SS DYNAMIQUE ............................................. €9,900 RANGER DBL CAB LIMITED 3.2TDCI 200PS 4WD ...................... FORD MONDEO ZETEC 115PS .......................................................... €8,500 will be enforced, FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI 150PS FWD 4 SEAT COMM ..... TOYOTA AURIS TERRA ............................................ FORD FIESTA 1.25 TITANIUM ................................................ €18,500 €14,900 FORD FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDC STYLE 95PS.................................................................... FOCUS TITANIUM 1.5TDCI 4DR................................................................ €18,900 FORD MONDEO 2.01.4 TDCID-4D TITANIUM 140PS 5DR .......................................€9,950 €12,900 2017 KUGA 2.0 TDCI 150PS FWD 4 SEAT COMM ............................. 2012 2016 2011 FORD C-MAX 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 95PS ..................................... €20,200 2016 FORD FIESTA TITANIUM FORD FOCUS1.25 1.5 TDC STYLE.............................................................................€14,900 95PS ........................................................... €18,500 MONDEO ED ECO SS 115PS .................................................. €8,500 FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI 150PS FWD 4 SEAT COMM ...................... FORD FOCUS 1.6 ZETEC TDCI EDGE 95PS....................................................................€10,900 FORDBE KUGA TITANIUM AWD 150PS COMM............... OPEL ZAFIRA 1.7 CDTI ECOFLEX DESIGN 110PS ................... €6,950 2016 FORD TITANIUM AWD 150PS COMM ...................................... FORD C-MAX ZETEC 95PS ................................................................. €20,200 ALL1.4VEHICLES SERVICED IN OUR WORKSHOP WILL SANITISED USING FORD FIESTA 1.5 1.25TDCI TITANIUM ................................................................... €14,900 2012 FIESTA 2016 KUGA FORD TDCI ........................................................................................ €9,900 2015 FORD MONDEO 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM 140PS AUTOMATIC ..... €10,900 HYUNDAI I30 1.6 CRDI SE BL/DR 110PS 5DR ...................... €14,950 2015 2016 C-MAX 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 95PS .......................................................... €20,200 FORD FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI EDGE 95PS ............................................................ €10,900 FORD KUGA TITANIUM AWD 150PS COMM ............................... 2011 STATE-OF-THE-ART SANY FORDTRANSIT TRANSIT CUSTOM 100PS L/R 4DR .. FORD MONDEO 2.0 TDCI STYLE 115PS ................................. €7,900CAR SYSTEM FORD MONDEO 140PS ............................... €14,950 €21,950 FORD CUSTOM 100PS 270PS L3270PS L/R 4DR L3 .......................... HYUNDAI I30 1.6 CRDI2.0 SE TDCI BL/DR ZETEC 110PS 5DR .................................................... OPEL ZAFIRA 1.7 CDTI ECOFLEX DESIGN 110PS ................................................. €6,950 2016 FORD FIESTA 1.4 TDCI .............................................................................. €9,900 2015 FORD RANGER DOUBLE CAB XLT 2.2 TDCI 150PS 4.. FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI STYLE 109PS ..................................... €6,500 FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM+ 120PS .............................. €21,900 FORD RANGER DOUBLE CAB XLT 2.2 TDCI 150PS 4 ........................... FORD MONDEO TDCISEZETEC 140PS ............................................................ €21,950 FORD 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM 140PS AUTOMATIC .................................€10,900 HYUNDAI I30 1.62.0 CRDI BL/DR 110PS 5DR ............................................ €14,950 2011 MONDEO FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 100PS 270PS L3 L/R FWD 4DR ................... FORD KUGA TITANIUM 2S 2.0 150PS 4DR VAN FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI STYLE 90PS ...................................... €6,500 FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 95PS (CHOICE) ............... €13,950 FORD KUGA TITANIUM 2S 2.0 150PS FWD 4DR VAN......................... FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM 4WD 150PS .................................................. €23,900 FORD MONDEO TDCIECOFLEX STYLE 115PS €8,900 FORD OPEL ZAFIRA 1.72.0CDTI DESIGN 110PSDYNAMIQUE ......................................... €6,950 FORD 2014RANGER DOUBLE CAB XLT 2.2 TDCI 150PS 4 ................... RENAULT FLUENCE 1.5 DCI 90.............................................................. ECO2 .............. €6,900 2016MONDEO 2.0 TDCI ZETEC 140PS .................................................... €21,950 2014 FORD KUGA 2.0 TITANIUM+ 120PS..........................................................€21,900 FORD 140PS140PS ............................................................. FORD 2.0TDCI TDCI 4WD 150PS ........................................... €23,900 MONDEO2.0 2.0TDCI TDCIZETEC TITANIUM AUTOMATIC ...........................€6,500 €10,900 FORD TITANIUM 2S 2.0 150PS 4DR VAN ................. FORDKUGA TRANSIT CUSTOM 100PSFWD 270PS L3 L/R 4DR .. 2010MONDEO FORDKUGA FIESTA 1.25TITANIUM ZETEC 60PS (CHOICE) ............................ €12,950 FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 100PS 270PS L3 L/R 4DR ........................... FORD FOCUS 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM 95PS ............................................................ €16,950 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI STYLE 109PS .................................................................. €6,500 FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM+ 120PS .................................................. €21,900 MONDEO 2.0 TDCI STYLE 115PS ..................................................... €8,900 2014 2012 FORD MONDEO 1.8 TDCI ZETEC 125 BHP 6 SPEED 5DR ...... €6,900 FORD FIESTA 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 75PS ...................................... €12,900 FORD FOCUS 1.5 95PS ............................................ €15,900 FORD 1.6 2.0 TDCI STYLE 90PS ................................................................... €6,500 FORD 1.5TDCI TDCITITANIUM TITANIUM 95PS(CHOICE) .................................................... €16,950 FORD FOCUS MONDEO TDCI ZETEC 140PS ....................................................€6,500 €6,500 FORD 100PS 270PS L/R 4DR ................... KUGATRANSIT ZETECCUSTOM VAN 2.0TDC 140PSL34DR ....................... FORD FIESTA 1.25 STYLE ....................................................... FORDFOCUS ECOSPORT 1.5 TDCI ZETEC ......................................... €17,950

Please contact us in advance on 090 96 30800 or Email service@fredkilmartinltd.ie for your appointment

Customers may avail of our on line booking service at www.fredkilmartinltd.ie

ALL VEHICLES SERVICED IN OUR WORKSHOP WILL BE SANITISED USING STATE-OF-THE-ART SANY CAR SYSTEM

LTD LTD

Ballinasloe Ballinasloe Years ServingMotorists Motorists OverOver 50 50 Years Serving Quality pre owned cars - Finance Available

ROOM WWW.FRE D

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Interested in one of our vehicles? Video viewings by request!

Phone Michael on 087 1335921 John 087 4165623 Michéal 086 3489164

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2014 Mondeo Zetec 2.0 5dr dsl ...................................... €10,950 €7,950 Focus 1.6 dsl Edition 5dr ......................................... €10,500 2013 Opel Merivea dsl Automatic ................................... €8,900 2012 Galaxy 7 seater 2.0 Titanium .................................. €12,950 Vauxhall Astra Exclusive dsl 5dr ............................. €8,000 2011 Toyota Verso 2.0 D4D Luna...................................... €9,950 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dsl ............................................ €8,950

Commercials inclusive VAT 2020 Transit 350 LWB Trend Van ................................... €28,200

2017 Transit Custom 270 SWB Van ................................. €17,500 Fiesta Van 1.5 dsl ..................................................... €10,950 2016 Transit Custom SWB Van ........................................ €15,950 Transit Connect Trend SWB .................................... €12,950 Transit 350 LWB RWD ............................................. €15,950 2015 Opel Combo 2000 Van ............................................ €6,950 2014 Transit Courier Trend Van ........................................ €7,950 2012 Kuga 2.0 Zetec Van.................................................. €8,500

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Roadmap for reopening Roscommon: But will it be business as usual?

No matter what our plans post-lockdown, it’s true that every single Rossie is now looking forward to doing all of those things they once took for granted. And as our government has introduced a roadmap for reopening the country, we thought we’d catch up with some service providers to see how they’re planning to come to terms with the new, and the very necessary, strict suite of measures! MIRIAM KERINS REPORTS…

Magdalena: ‘I want to earn my own money. I don’t want to take money from the government’ The coronavirus pandemic has caused a major upheaval for many SMEs. Roscommon town based Luxstyle, a sunbed and beauty salon, is one of hundreds of SMEs in Co. Roscommon that have been badly affected. I caught up with owner Magdalena Klimczak to find out how she plans to reboot, reset and recalibrate her Church Street business. < MIRIAM KERINS

Your business has been hard hit by these restrictions…how are you coping? I had to close the salon because I can’t work. It’s that simple. I would like to open up again because I am getting the Covid payment, but I want to earn my own living, I don’t want to be living off the government, but that’s not possible at the moment.

Under the government’s plans, you’ll be able to reopen at phase 4, i.e. July 20th; how does that make you feel? I would really like to be able to open earlier. I can take precautions, and I can allow only one client at a time into the salon. My staff will use masks and gloves and the client can use a mask too. What other precautions can you take? I can arrange my workstations so that we can make sure everyone keeps their two-metre social distance from each other, and of course while we always fully sterilise and sanitise our equipment and work stations. I will take extra advice and precautions and extra measures regarding this. I will do whatever is necessary to keep clients and staff safe. Having implemented these precautionary measures, in your opinion, when would you be ready to reopen? Oh I could open at the end of May or beginning of June. 20th July is too late. I want to work; I want to earn

my own money. I don’t want to take money from the government. Some beauty treatments can’t be carried out at a distance of two metres, and sunbed protocols would be pretty difficult (I’d imagine) to adhere to… Oh we probably couldn’t open up our sunbeds just yet. I always take extra measures with our sunbeds at all times, even before this coronavirus. It’s very important. After each client, the sunbeds are always fully disinfected with an antibacterial and an antiviral cleaner, etc. Also, there are other treatments that are pretty much face to face, for example eyebrows and lash treatments, and of course extra precautions would need to be put in place for these, and we will take those precautions for our clients; but we can do nails and pedicures using masks for clients and masks and gloves for the staff, and by only allowing one client at a time into the salon. I am missing my clients so much and I am missing earning my own money; I would like to reopen my business.

Nurture’s Best will do what’s best for the children… Miriam Kerins caught up with Caroilín Callery, owner of Nurture’s Best crèche in Tarmonbarry, an awardwinning childcare facility catering for 130 Montessori children, after-schoolers, babies, wobblers and toddlers…to find out her plans post-lockdown!

Caroilín Callery, owner of Nurture’s Best crèche in Tarmonbarry

The framework allows for crèches, childminders and pre-schools to reopen on 29th June to care for children of ‘essential workers’. What does this mean for you? All of the phases are not yet fully thrashed out in detail. For example, we don’t yet know the definition of what is an ‘essential worker’ and we need to know if the government are going to open up childcare in order to support the opening of the entire workforce.

What intervention strategies have you put in place for a 29th June reopening and, when the time comes, for a full reopening? We have a care team of twenty staff, led by our manager Anne-Marie Tiernan, and we’ve been preparing the past four weeks for this. Our team has been very proactive and Anne-Marie has been excellent. I am so proud of how the entire care team have all adapted to a totally new way of working. As always, they have kept the best interests of the children at heart.

family page; we have storytime every evening at 6.30 pm for our children, and this is very popular and has been viewed by over one hundred every night. We do this to show the children that the world out there is still the same. In addition, we have care room catch-up sessions on Zoom, and our team sings-songs with the children that they’ve sung together in crèche. It has been great for them to see their little pals on Zoom. This is something that’s both very lovely and very important for them.

Give readers a flavour of your crèche’s activities during lockdown… Nurture’s Best has a family page and from the get-go our team went into action in order to ensure the families and the children retained connections, because when everything changes so suddenly it can be difficult for children. We have daily recommendations for activities for parents to do on our

What about future preparations? We’ve been in constant contact with parents and we’ve looked at the building itself, and we’ll now have an external handover by parents. We will make the children fully aware of this before they come back. We have put in place extra sterilisation elements and looked at what we can do in order to further maximise the settings. As an example, staff rooms will be split and groups

will be kept separate, etc. We are waiting on further guidelines, and we are clarifying details all the time. Our parents have been absolutely fantastic. Have your staff been updating their professional skills during lockdown? Yes, the silver lining to all of this – if there is one – is that we have embraced the restrictions in order to use them to improve our services. We used it as an opportunity for our workforce to engage in continuous professional development and they’ve been doing online courses; and in some cases doing them together through Zoom. We have a very strong reflective practice and Anne-Marie is absolutely excellent at implementing these strategies. We are Saolta accredited and we are also recognised as a Centre of Excellence. I’d like to say ‘Hi’ to all of our families and children and tell them we very much look forward to seeing them all again very soon.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

After Covid role, Castlerea building must reopen as fire station – Kerrane

Claire Kerrane

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane, left, has said that the use of Castlerea Fire Station as a Covid-19 testing centre cannot signal the end of a fire service in the town. Deputy Kerrane said: “I welcome the establishment of any Covid-19 test centre as we continue to battle against this virus. Adequate testing facilities and timely test results for

those tested are crucial when it comes to suppressing Covid-19 in our communities. “I know that many Castlerea residents are concerned about the change in the use of the Fire Station building. Some who have contacted me are fearful that this is the final nail in the coffin for a fire service in Castlerea. “While Covid-19 has in many

respects taken priority over many other existing issues, a fire service for Castlerea is an absolute necessity. Such a service in any community can be the difference between life or death in an emergency situation. “Castlerea Fire Station must re-open to ensure the health and safety of those in the town and surrounding areas” Deputy Kerrane concluded.

July Provision news welcomed by Harkin Independent TD, Marian Harkin, warmly welcomed the commitment from Minister for Education, Joe McHugh, who has confirmed that a special scheme for children with severe/profound intellectual disabilities or autism, called ‘July Provision’, would go ahead this year. Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Harkin described this scheme as a lifeline for many families and asked Minister McHugh to contact families as soon as possible to make arrangements for those students who wish to avail of the scheme. “July Provision is an extension of the school year for children and can be either school-based or homebased. Forty hours of extra tuition are provided over a four-week period and students and families alike find this scheme to be of real value”.

Loughglynn Music Festival cancelled The annual Loughglynn Music Festival, which was scheduled to take place on August Bank Holiday weekend, has been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions. Organisers hope to be in a position to host some events later in the year. In a statement, the organisers said: “We look forward to returning for next year’s festival. We would like to thank people for their continued support and their generosity and we extend best wishes to the community during these difficult times. Please observe restrictions to stay safe and keep well”. Social distancing in Donamon earlier this week. Picture: Michael McCormack

Julie O’Donoghue

Greens call on Council to introduce new measures The Green Party has asked Roscommon County Council to consider a number of temporary measures to facilitate social distancing in towns and villages as we move through the planned phased lifting of Covid-19 restrictions. Local Green Party Representative, Julie O’Donoghue, said: “As the evidence suggests that social distancing will be with us for quite some time and at least until the end of the summer, I have contacted Roscommon County Council to ask them to give consideration to a number of measures. I am particularly conscious of vulnerable groups and local businesses who may not have adequate space in their premises to facilitate social distancing. “Some of the measures that could be considered to help residents and local businesses include the use of cones to widen footpaths or temporary or partial pedestrianisation of certain streets to provide adequate space for pedestrians to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Part-reassignment of road space on a temporary basis could also be considered in some areas and at certain times to provide businesses with increased space for outdoor seating or to facilitate queues, for instance. “Now may also be an opportune time for the Council to consider increasing bicycle lanes, bicycle parking and pedestrian crossings, with the support of Government”.

We must address driving test backlog – Fitzmaurice Workable solutions must be found to address the backlog of driving test applications, independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said. The representative for the Roscommon-Galway constituency said that it was unacceptable that over 25,000 applicants for the test are being left in limbo, having already completed the essential training with a qualified instructor prior to the lockdown. Commenting on the matter, he said: “Many of these applicants are depending on this licence to ensure that they can travel to work. As it stands, they have to be accompanied by a qualified driver as they only have a provisional licence. “But this isn’t always possible and some people may have to break this rule if they want to get to and from work, particularly in rural Ireland where public transport isn’t as widely available as it might be in urban areas. “These people are being backed into an impossible decision by the indecision and ambiguity of Minister Shane Ross and his Department. “There has to be a workable solution which can allow tests to go ahead without breaking social distancing guidelines. As has been mentioned, a system simi-

Seamus Beirne of Roscommon Driving School, speaking to RTE’s Six One News last Sunday evening.

lar to the motorbike test could be employed. The applicant could be given a copy of the route and the instructor could follow behind in their own vehicle, while maintaining communication via a headset or bluetooth speaker. “A go-pro camera could be used to allow the instructor view the applicant’s driving abilities, without having to sit in the car while they navigate the route. “Technology is available which can assist with this issue, but we must be willing to take advantage of the opportunity. Otherwise, the backlog is only

going to get worse and applicants will be forced to wait for months on end to get an opportunity to sit the test,” Deputy Fitzmaurice concluded.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice

Crosby hopeful places of worship can reopen soon Cllr. Tom Crosby has welcomed the news that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has met with senior religious leaders to discuss how places of worship across the country can be reopened over coming months. Cllr. Crosby said that people are going through a period of great physical and emotional stress. Cllr. Crosby said that many people, particularly the elderly and most vulnerable, rely on their faith to see them through such tough times.

Murphy wants N5 project protected from Covid fall-out Senator Eugene Murphy has sought reassurances that the Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue N5 project will continue and will not suffer because of any cutbacks that the Government might implement due to the serious economic crisis facing us as a nation because of the coronavirus pandemic. Senator Murphy said: “There must be commitments made to farmers for land purchases, and work on this project must continue without delay as much of the route has been opened up and that work needs to progress”. Senator Murphy has requested a written response from Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport clarifying the situation.

Feighan welcomes free flu vaccine announcement Sligo/Leitrim Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has said that he “welcomes the decision of the Minister for Health Simon Harris to provide this year’s influenza vaccine to every child under the age of 12”. Deputy Feighan said this is “a positive step in the fight against our hospitals being overrun due to Covid-19 and flu season combined later this year”. Deputy Feighan also welcomes the inclusion in this scheme of every person in the HSE-defined ‘at-risk’ groups, aged from 6 months to 69 years as being a common sense but positive development.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Cuisle Centre earlier this week.

Cuisle: Locals unimpressed as items removed… < PAUL HEALY

The country has been in lockdown for several weeks, but that hasn’t stopped the Irish Wheelchair Association from actively dismantling what’s left of its relationship with the Cuisle Centre in Donamon. On a number of occasions over recent weeks – stretching back to April, and continuing up to as recently as this week – removal personnel have called to the Cuisle Centre to remove items. Last November, the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) closed down the Cuisle Holiday & Respite Centre at Donamon, Co. Roscommon. The decision stunned service users, staff and the wider community, and led to a massive outcry locally and nationally. Appeals for the IWA to reverse its decision or at least agree to a ‘stay of execution’ fell on deaf ears. Now, six months on, some local people – while under no illusions about the vexatious ending of the IWA presence in Donamon – are less than pleased to see the process of removing items from the Cuisle Centre taking place during a pandemic, at a time when travel is restricted and when the community is hurting. “It’s insensitive at best” one disgruntled local man told the Roscommon People. “Removal people have

been taking items from the Cuisle building over various days…if you ask me, they’re using the ‘cover of Covid’ in order to do this as discreetly as possible”. Our photographs (taken earlier this week) show a number of men removing items and placing them into the back of a lorry. The items include mattresses, tables and chairs. There is no suggestion that any of this conduct is contrary to HSE Covid-related guidelines. But local people are not impressed. While not specifically referring to items that have been removed in recent weeks, locals have reiterated that the people of Co. Roscommon raised a lot of funds for the IWA over the years. They point out that local IWA volunteers organised numerous fundraisers in Co. Roscommon over the years, and that these events were generously supported by the public. “There’s a lot of ill feeling towards the IWA and the shocking way they have handled this fiasco,” a source said. “The loss of the service for service-users – that’s the big issue. That and the job losses. It also sticks in the craw to see items being removed when we all know how much of taxpayers’ money – and local fundraising – was provided for the IWA when it was here”. On Monday, the Roscommon People attempted to contact the IWA but we were unable to do so.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets! Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Juvenile! Petty row between FF and FG as people struggle with a killer pandemic. Irish politics can sometimes be a sick joke. Literally! – The veteran political commentator takes FF & FG to task

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan The citadel is indeed crumbling. Dublin marathon gone, Puck Fair cancelled. Kerry’s inevitable All-Ireland victory now seems vulnerable. Who is this bitter God? Perhaps religious affairs correspondent Mr Patsy McGarry might tell us. Probably a Rossie. – Now Michael is just playing puck…not fair Kourtney Kardashian @kourtneykardash Need a season two @

normalpeople – That’s it, game over. If ‘Normal People’ hadn’t already been hyped sufficiently (and almost taken over the world) it has now. Kourtney Kardashian has only gone and tweeted about it! amy o’connor @amyohconnor Poor Matt Damon thought he was going to slip under the radar in Dalkey and now we have him recording personalised shoutouts like he’s Ronan Collins. Pretty soon he’s going to be saying a

big hello to Breda McGuckian in Abbeyleix and wishing her a happy 65th birthday. – Yep, the Hollywood star has certainly caused a stir since arriving in Ireland. Meanwhile, Breda McGuckian’s expectations have been dramatically raised… Oisin Langan @oisinlangan If I’ve learned anything from today it is that football behind closed doors is better than no football at all. If safe to do so I’d take a GAA Championship even

without fans.#COVID19 – The ‘Will it? Won’t it?’ debate continues… Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump The Obama Administration is turning out to be one of the most corrupt and incompetent in U.S. history. Remember, he and Sleepy Joe are the reasons I am in the White House!!! – Barack Obama and Joe Biden get the ‘credit’ for electing ‘The Donald’…from the man himself

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

NewsPeople

Wanted – land for forestry purposes Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week urgently seeking lands for forestry purposes to meet a recent order. All holding sizes considered. John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley commented: “To fill a new order just received we are actively seeking lands suitable for plantation in all areas. Our clients will assess the lands and if suitable, cash is waiting for immediate purchase”. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV), Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579 or email: jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Earley’s require agricultural lands for sale in all areas 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 agricultural properties being sold or reaching sale agreed status. We are now seeking lands in all areas for cash clients. “We offer a comprehensive pre-market 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 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 0906626579 or email: jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Carrownvalley, Strokestown

Earley’s close the sale of a quality Strokestown property John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week pleased to advise that he closed the sale of a quality four-bedroomed detached bungalow residence of approximately 2,200 sq. ft. located at Carrownvalley, Strokestown for a very satisfactory price. John 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. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers and clients for their patience and understanding at this difficult time and we hope to resume normal business and

viewings over the coming weeks”. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 0906626579 or 086-2551380, email: jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence: 001350

PROPERTY SALES

LETTINGS l VALUATIONS

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

NEW TO THE MARKET

c. 26.5 Acres at

Ballagh, Rahara, Co. Roscommon • Prime parcel of excellent quality lands • Comprising c. 26.5 Acres • Located in renowned farming district • The lands have extensive road frontage holding huge potential • With sheep shed and pen adjoining • Located just off the Roscommon to Athlone N61 Roadway For further details contact the office on 090-6663700

Three bedroom Residence on

c. 34.9 Acres at

Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon F42 K272 • Prime property comprising three bedroom residence • With c. 3,000 sq. ft of outbuildings to rear • Altogether standing on c. 34.9 acres of excellent quality lands • The residence is need of modernisation • The property is being offered for sale as follows: Lot 1 – Residence and outbuildings on c. 3.5 Acres Lot 2 – c. 31.4 Acres Lot 3 – Entire property – Residence and outbuildings on c. 34.9 acres • For further details contact the office on 090-6663700 Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated

Exceptional residence in Roscommon Town Connaughton Auctioneers (Athleague) are pleased to advise that, for sale due to cancellation, is this very spacious four-bedroomed detached residence. The property is located on the doorstep of all of Roscommon Town’s amenities.

In excellent condition, the residence offers spacious living accommodation with large concreted yard to the rear and detached garage (c. 20’ x c. 16’) with both side entrance and roller door to the front. The entrance hall is

PSRA Licence No: 003201

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

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

bright, modern and inviting with two large reception rooms on either side. Reception one is being used as sitting/living room and has wooden flooring and a solid fuel stove inserted into feature fireplace. Across the hallway is reception two which also has wooden flooring, is similar in size and is currently being used as a playroom but can be a second living room, office or indeed the fifth bedroom on the ground floor. The large kitchen/dining room is located to the rear of the house and affords plenty of light. On the first floor of this spacious two storey residence are four double bedrooms all with wooden flooring. The master bedroom has

086 2573358 - Aengus and

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

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

Roscommon town.

a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with shower and built-in wardrobes. The main bathroom is located at the top of the stairs is fully tiled floor to ceiling, has a large jacuzzi bath and separate shower with enclosure. On the landing there is access to the attic via a ‘stira’ folding attic stairs. This residence offers all that may be required for modern living in today’s market. Viewings strictly by appointment. Weekend and evening viewings are available and booked in advance after lockdown. Contact the office for further information and to arrange an appointment on 090-6663700 or email: info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Apartment adjacent to the Radisson Hotel on Northgate Street

Two-bedroomed apartment (with parking space) in Athlone Connaughton Auctioneers (Athleague) are pleased to advise of this large twobedroomed apartment, which has arrived on the market for sale in the much sought after area of Athlone Town centre adjacent to the Radisson Hotel on Northgate Street. This property comes to the market with the addition of an underground private car parking space. Located on the third floor with lift access, this apartment consists of reception hallway, kitchen/living/dining room, two double bedrooms and main bathroom. Within walking distance of all amenities on offer in Athlone, the property is in excellent condition and is ideal to either the

investment market or indeed first-time buyer market. Management company in place with reasonable yearly fees. Features include wooden flooring throughout, electric storage heating, fully fitted wardrobes, fully fitted kitchen including dishwasher and washing machine, intercom and fully tiled bathroom. Recently redecorated, No. 65, Silver Quay is a must for viewing. Viewing available on weekends, evenings and bank holidays by prior arrangement after lockdown. For further details contact the office on 090-66 63700 or email: info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence No. 002782

ROSCOMMON TOWN. T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

OPEN TO OFFERS

NEW TO THE MARKET

KILLASTER, BALLINAGARE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45 KN81

24 CLUAIN FRAOIGH, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 FW10

3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow with Detached workshop and 3 no. outbuildings on 0.46 acre site, conveniently set within close proximity to Ballinagare Village and the N5 national primary route. Excellent opportunity to purchase a modern 3 bedroom bungalow set in a picturesque rural location. Enquiries now invited.

Quality 4 Bedroom Semi Detached Home conveniently located on the outskirts of Roscommon Town, within walking distance to all amenities. The subject property is presented in good condition. Viewing is highly recommended and immediate enquiries are advised. Guide Price: €149,950

NEW TO THE MARKET 8 OLDWOOD, GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 AX79 Impressive 4 Bedroom Detached Family Home located in the heart of Roscommon Town, convenient to all amenities. Its location adjacent to Mote Park and Roscommon Golf Club creates an ideal base for families. The said property is a modern family home finished to a high specification. The subject property presents itself as an excellent opportunity to purchase a quality family home and enquiries are now invited. Guide Price: €350,000

Naughton Auctioneers confirm sale of Oldwood residence

Sale of the week with REA Seamus Carthy REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to announce the sale of 36, Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon Town this week. This is a quality four-bedroomed two-storey home situated in a sought after residential suburb in Roscommon Town, within walking distance to all amenities. REA Seamus Carthy are pleased to advise the property is now sold. Due to demand REA Seamus Carthy are seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of selling, contact the office for a free sales appraisal on 090-6630001, 086-8035538 or email: info@ reacarthy.ie.

36, Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon Town

Sean Naughton Auctioneers is pleased to confirm that they have completed the sale of 2, Oldwood, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon. Sean was very happy to achieve the guide price and to be able to complete the sale in these turbulent times. While Sean had some very interested underbidders who were disappointed, he is hopeful to be able to accommodate them in the future with similar properties. Solicitor having carriage of sale: Timothy JC O’Keeffe, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Enquiries on properties/lands, etc. to Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email: seannaughton@eircom.net.

TP Walsh Auctioneers announce a large holding on the market in Roscommon

5, Barley Harbour, Newtowncashel, Co. Longford

Unique property overlooking Lough Ree is on the market REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present 5, Barley Harbour, Newtowncashel, Co. Longford to the marketplace. The subject property is a traditional stone three-bedroomed detached bungalow situated on the shores of Elfeet Bay on Lough Ree and considered very much a holiday home given its idyllic location. The subject property comprises of an entrance

hallway, living/dining/kitchen, bathroom, three bedrooms at ground floor and attic room. Barley Harbour is a fine cut limestone harbour offering picturesque views of Lough Ree and the surrounding countryside set literally on your doorstep making it a perfect location for water activities. Barley Harbour is situated within close proximity to the village of New-

towncashel. A unique property with a unique tranquil setting offering breathtaking views over the beautiful Lough Ree is now presented to the marketplace. The said residence is excellent value for money and offers are now invited with a guide price of €100,000. For more information on the property contact Seamus on 090-6630001 or email: info@reacarthy.ie.

TP Walsh Auctioneers are advising that a 119-acre residential farm located near Strokestown is new to the market and is now for sale by private treaty. The main part of the farm includes the residence and 69 acres. The selling agent TP Walsh said that the farm can be sold in one of the following five lots – Lot 1: Residence on 0.5 acres; Lot 2: 69 acres; Lot 3: 31 acres; Lot 4: 19 acres; Lot 5: The entire. Approximately 80 acres of the said farm is good quality fattening lands and the remainder are of marginal quality suitable for grazing. The farmhouse needs renovation. Accommodation includes entrance hall, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, three bedrooms, bathroom and utility. The property is ideally located on the Roscom-

Strokestown

mon/Strokestown road, five miles from Strokestown and convenient to all local marts (Castlerea, Elphin and Roscommon). Mr. Walsh said that he has interested parties from Roscommon, Leitrim, Mayo and Cavan, and he hopes to

conclude the sale within the next few weeks. Offers are now being accepted. Viewing seven days a week by appointment. For further details contact TP Walsh auctioneers on 071-9658652 or email: info@tpwalshauctioneers.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 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

ACCOUNTS

CHIMNEY CLEANING

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

090 66 25818 086 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ROOM 14, 1ST FLOOR ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON EIR CODE: F42YT51 Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Wednesday 1pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

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

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

CHIROPODIST FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

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

CHIROPODIST

PODIATRIST

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

Department of Health Approved

(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

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 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

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233

CONSTRUCTION

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

Construction

Stephen Casey

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

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Department of Health Approved

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you? Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

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

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

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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

< A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

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

< FOR SALE: Good quality top soil. Tel: 086 3776948.

www.parklawntreeservices.

JOE HEALY

WALTER BEGLEY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193 FOR SALE < F O R S A L E : B a t h Used once. Excellent condition. Strong sides. Glass showwer surround, Ultra Image, selection of brown and white kitchen and wardrobe doors; lime remover. Tel: 083 882 8882.

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

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

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN • Roscommon Town • Grass and Hedge Cutting • General Maintenance • Strimming and Weeding • Clean-up/Maintenance

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

CONTACT KEVIN:

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

WALDRON LAWNMOWERS

BALLINTUBBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 HY38

Large range of Lawnmowers in stock including Snapper Tractor Lawnmowers 38”cut 22 hp twin cylinder - €3600 Selection of strimmers, hedgecutters and powerwashers. Complete back up service and spare parts stocked Delivery and pick up service available Please contact Anthony 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 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 < WANTED TO RENT: Dry secure storage space, shed or garage required for Camper Van. Must have 10ft high opening. Roscommon area. Phone: 087 6538538. < TO LET: 1-bedroom apartment in centre of Roscommn town. All mod. cons. Available for viewing. Tel. 087 4634 888. < 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT to let. Athleague village. Tel. 087 7541730.

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

PHYSICAL THERAPY

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

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

FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 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 < PAINTER & DECORATOR AVAILABLE: For all your painting needs, keen and competive prices. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

PAT TREACY • Painting and Decorating • Commercial & Domestic • Spray Painting • Wallpapering • Power Washing

Tel: (086) 8077313 PEAT BEDDING

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

USEFUL SERVICES

PLOTS OF TURF

ADRIAN CUFFE

Powerwashing & Cleaning Services

Movement Matters

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

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

USEFUL SERVICES

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

PLANNINGS

• Slatted Sheds • Yards • Footpaths • Driveways • Fascia & Soffit

086 860 6281 Aughamuck, Kilrooskey. Co. Roscommon < 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.

Property Maintenance & Repairs Damp Proofing, Plastering, Tiling, Roofing, Brickwork, Blockwork Also Gutters and Downpipes

Tel 087 4412649

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

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

086 2437376

FOR SALE: 2020 new season, harvested, screened hopper turf. Delivered in various loads. Tel. 087 1173288. < FOR SALE: Large lorryloads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders for this year’s turf taken now. Tel: 086 7236301

Plots of Turf

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

For Sale & To Let

Castlerea/Ballingarea area Trailers of turf for sale also.

086 3482387

Contact Christopher

083 8893883 PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We intend to apply for planning permission to re-tain 2 no 26,000 lt underground fuel oil storage tanks at Farnbeg, Strokestown, 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 and submissions or observations in relation to the application can be made to the Planning Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, with-in a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Westward Garage Ltd. ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We intend to apply for planning permission to construct a storage shed at Farnbeg, Strokestown, 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 and submissions or observations in relation to the application can be made to the Planning Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within a period of 5 weeks be-ginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Westward Garage Ltd. ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply for Planning Permission for retention of dwellinghouse, garage and sewerage system at Carrowreagh, Elphin, 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 and submissions or observations in relation to the application can be made to the Planning Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, with-in a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Eamon Beirne

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mark Drury, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to erect a dwelling house and domestic garage/store and construct a septic tank system and percolation area and all associated site works at Teevnacreeva, Tibohine, 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 applica-tion 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 are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Terence Kelly for Planning permission for the retention and completion of partly completed dwelling house together with the installation of a waste water treatment system/ percolation area and all necessary site services/ ancillary siteworks previously granted in PD/07/390 and PD/12/3110 at Torpan More, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Registered Surveyors, Chartered Construction Managers, Building Consultants. Tel. (090) 6623417, mob.086-8546035. 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.

TRUCKS WANTED

Trucks wanted Daf CF75,CF85 Tractors units. Box body, Curtain sider, Cab & chassie, Tipper 6 & 8 wheelers Daf XF 95 tractor units up to 2005 Volvo FL6 18, any body type, Box body Tipper etc. Merc 814, Merc SK 1824 and bigger Old Scania and Hino Tippers Any old truck considered Mitsubishi Canter 7.5 ton up to 2001 Toyota Hilux , Dyna, Nissan Cabstar up to 2005 BOUGHT FOR EXPORT AND RESALE

Tel. 087 1922154

THANKSGIVINGS 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) THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, honoured, adored and glorified throughout the world today and forever. Amen. Say 6 times daily for 9 days and your request will be answered. Publication promised. L.F.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 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

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories

AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

087 2596055

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

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

www.roscommonwindows.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor Due to HSE Guidelines we are not undertaking Driving Lessons at the moment

Gift Vouchers Available

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

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

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

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

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

RECYCLING

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

LIFE COACH

VETERINARY

WINDOWS/DOORS

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions/flea worm treatments/food. Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment. We ask that all payments be made by card only and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. When in the YARD all customers must leave at least 2m distance between themselves, other customers and members of staff at all times due to social distancing guidelines.

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

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

6621220

LOCKSMITH RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Chris’s Locksmith Service l

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

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com 08383

FARMING

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

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

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@rosommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES WALTER HALLY, V.S. “Avalon”, Castle Street, Roscommon As we approach the First Anniversary of Walter’s death, his wife, Mai, daughters Margaret, Miriam and Aileen, together with Walter’s extended family, wish to express our very sincere gratitude to all who sympathized with us at the time of his unexpected passing. To the many people who came to the Funeral Home, Requiem Mass and burial we express our great thanks. The words of condolence and anecdotes of Walter’s professional life recounted to us by so many were a source of immense consolation. Sincere thanks to all who had Mass offered for the repose of Walter’s soul, sent Mass Certificates and Enrolments, Sympathy cards, letters and floral tributes. They have been truly valued. To our relatives and friends – your ongoing support of us has meant so much. To the staff of the Galway Clinic, especially the ICU Department – thank you for your kindness and compassion to both Walter and ourselves. We will always remember the thoughtful generosity shown by Fr. John Cullen P.P. in his performing of the ceremonies and thank him particularly for a very moving Funeral Mass, which was of great spiritual comfort to us. We also express our sincere thanks to Fr. William Dalton P.P. who concelebrated the Mass, and to Monsignor Charles Travers and Fr. Frank Mc Gauran for their presence. Thanks to the Priests of the parish, Sacristan, Ministers of the Eucharist, Roscommon Parish Choir and organist for their roles in enriching the Mass. To Tom, Pat and Gillian Smyth, Funeral Directors – Thank you for your sensitivity and professionalism. Thank you to the Gravediggers at St Coman’s Cemetery. To the Greally family and staff of the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, we also express our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for the intentions of all. “Peace is thine and sweet remembrance is ours”

McNAMARA Eugene The Walk, Roscommon In loving memory of Eugene who died on 24th May, 2009 (11th Anniversary)

In God’s care your rest above, In our hearts you rest with love, Never more than a thought away, Loved and remembered every day.

Fondly remembered by Sarah, sons Michael, Francis, James and Patrick, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and extended family and friends. Private Anniversary Mass on Tuesday 27th May, 2020 at 11am which will be broadcast on local radio 105.9FM

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

MacGuigan Mary (First Anniversary) Who died on 25th May 2019

The family of the late Mary MacGuigan, wish to extend their sincere thanks to all those who sympathised with them on their sad loss; those who attended the funeral home, funeral mass and burial and those who sent mass cards, letters of sympathy and prayed for Mary. Thanks to Roscommon Golf Club for their Guard of Honour, to the Abbey Hotel for providing refreshments after the funeral and to all our kind friends and neighbours who comforted and supported us at this difficult time. A special word of thanks to Fr. John Cullen for celebrating the funeral mass which was enhanced by the beautiful singing of the church choir. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of The Sacred Heart Home for their care and attention to Mary in her final weeks. Thanks to Smyths Funeral Directors for their professionalism and sensitivity and to the gravediggers for their care in preparing Mary’s final resting place. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Sadly missed by her family and many friends. 1st Anniversary Mass will take place in private on Sunday May 24th at 12.15pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

O’CONNOR Gerry 3 Aran Court, Galway Road, Roscommon Happy Birthday Gerry 21st May

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

Always loved and remembered, love Mum, Dad, sister, brothers and extended family.

CRUISE Bridget

GATELY Joe

(23rd Anniversary)

Cullawinna, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 21st May 2018 (2nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bridget Cruise, Derrycahill, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, who died on 19th May 1997 R.I.P. Your presence I miss Your memory I treasure Loving you always Forgetting you never.

Always remembered by your daughter Rosaleen.

CARTER Pat (Patricia) Who died 24th of May, 2019 (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother, grandmother and sister God saw you were getting tired, When a cure was not to be, He closed his arms around you And whispered “come to me” In tears we watched you sinking, We watched you fade away, And though our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay, A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest, It broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the best.

Missed every day by her loving husband Noel, daughters Sheila and Shannon and granddaughter Ruby. Sadly missed by her brother Seamus; sisters Lorraine and Michelle; brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews, friends and neighbours. Due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, a mass for Patricia will be at a later date. “Your memories will always keep us smiling”

Softly in the morning You heard a gentle call You took the hand God offered You And quietly left us all You never looked for praise You were never one to boast You just went on quietly working For the ones you loved the most Your dreams were seldom spoken Your wants were very few And most of the time your worries Went unspoken too We miss your smile, your joking ways We miss the things you used to say And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss you most of all The gates of memory will never close We miss you more than anyone knows.

Always loved and remembered by Bridie, Lorraine, Aidan & Mary ~~~~~~~~~~ Your cheerful smile Your heart of gold You were the best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind These are the memories you left behind.

Sadly missed by Liz, Catherine and Padraig.

KELLY Pat and Margaret (Peggy) Derrane, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 17th April 2019 (1st Anniversary)

Who passed away on 25th May 2017 (3rd Anniversary)

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

Loved and missed by their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family.

QUINN Mary Marnellsgrove, Ballymoe and Lisroyan Lodge, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Mary who died on the 23rd May, 2006 R.I.P (14th Anniversary)

On her gentle soul Sweet Jesus have mercy. Time may pass and fade away, But fond memories of you will always stay.

Always remembered by your ever-loving husband Michael and family. Anniversary Mass will be offered in private due to current circumstances.

HANLEY AUDREY (nee Kenny) Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 23rd May 2015 (5th Anniversary)

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

Love Maudie & Andy. Anniversary Mass will be said at a later date due to current circumstances.

DEMPSEY Conor The Walk, Roscommon May 22nd 2012 (8th Anniversary)

Though we wake to your loss, you dwell in that place of our hearts where no storm or night or pain can reach you. Though your years here were brief, your spirit was alive, awake, completed. Though we cannot see you with our outward eyes, we know our souls gaze is upon your face, smiling back at us in everything. Let us not look for you only in memory, where we grow lonely without you. May you continue to inspire us, to enter each day with a generous heart, to serve the call of courage and love. Until we see your beautiful face again in that land of where there is no separation, where all tears will be wiped from our minds and where we will never lose you again.

Forever missed by Mum, Dad, Laura, Alex, Emma, Derek, Ann Marie, Damien, Aaron, Ben, Jack, Rían, Hannah, Daniel & Allie.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Classifieds FAMILYNOTICES

FarmingPeople PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Buckill, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon: We, The Estate of Patrick Finn, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to retain extension to dwelling house and permission to upgrade existing foul treatment system, all as per drawing documentation submitted together with all ancillary site works and services.

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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 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: BK Engineering Design Ltd., Chartered Engineers and Architectural Services, Abbey Street, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo. www.BkEngineeringDesign.com; E. bkengineeringdesign@ gmail.com; PH: 087-7743327 / 0949630030

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Caran, Ballintober, Co. Roscommon: I, Alan Bligh, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to construct a new slatted shed, all as per drawing documentation submitted together with all ancillary site works and services. 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 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: BK Engineering Design Ltd., Chartered Engineers and Architectural Services, Abbey Street, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo. www.BkEngineeringDesign.com; E. bkengineeringdesign@ gmail.com; PH: 087-7743327 / 0949630030

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.

How can I complete my Green Cert in Roscommon? Young Roscommon farmers have three options available to them by which they can complete their Green Cert. All three options lead to the same result and benefits for the Young Trained Farmer. Two of these three options will be available locally in the Roscommon Teagasc Unit shortly and the third option can be accessed from our nearest Agricultural Colleges, (Mountbellew, Co. Galway and Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan). Which Green Cert option is best for me? The three options are outlined below, starting with the choices most suitable to a young school leaver, right up to the choices facing aspiring students in their 30s, 40s and beyond. The most important thing to remember is that there is a route for everyone and the Education staff in the Roscommon Teagasc Unit are always available to guide you in your choices. Green Cert Route 1 This option is offered on a full-time basis in Agricultural colleges. Students must be 17 years of age or over on 1st January following entry to the course. This course is most suitable for school leavers and it would be desirable but not essential to have completed the Leaving Cert cycle in secondary school. The course runs over two years with a combination of formal course work and a period of practical learning experience. This course is also suitable for young people seeking employment on farms. Applications can be made directly to the Colleges or by using the online application via www.teagasc.ie. If applying online, you can apply for a number of colleges using the preference system. There is a Means Tested Teagasc Grant Scheme associated with this option, for more information on this, check directly with the College in question. Green Cert Route 2 This option is called The Teagasc Part Time Green Cert and will be on offer in the Roscommon Teagasc Unit this autumn 2020. Applicants must be over 23 years of age when starting this course, there is no upper age limit applicable. It is desirable but not essential to have completed the Leaving Cert cycle in secondary school. Students must have access to a working farm including the financial details of the same farm. The course duration will be approximately 2.5 years on a part-time basis, generally 1.5 days per week from September to April. The course work is split between practical/skills training and classroom sessions. The course consists of a range of modules such as Farm Business, Principles of Agriculture, Farm Safety, Farm Enterprise Production, Safe Use of Pesticides, etc. Students interested in taking Green Cert Route 2 should contact Therese Hilliard in the Longford Teagasc Office (043-3341021) to put their name on the expression of interest list. Green Cert Route 3 This option is called The Teagasc Distance Education Green Cert (for Non-Agricultural Award Holders). This option will also be available in the Roscommon Teagasc Unit commencing on 18th of September 2020. Applicants for this course must have obtained a Level 6 or higher major award in a non–agricultural discipline. In recent years, plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, nurses and engineers have all been able to avail of this express option. This part-time option extends over a period of 15-

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18 months incorporating at least 28 contact days, roughly two per month. The course work covered is the same as that in Route 1 and 2 above, the main difference is that Green Cert Route 3 students will be doing a ‘fast forward’ type of course. The shorter time span for this route is based on the assumption that students with previous college experience are capable of working on their own initiative to meet the tighter deadlines. Students interested in taking Green Cert Route 3 should contact Caitríona Corcoran or Catherine Divilly in the Roscommon Teagasc Office (090-6626166) for an application pack as soon as possible. What benefit is the Green Cert to young farmers? The Teagasc Green Cert is well known as the course many people starting up in farming complete. While young people are not prohibited from entering farming without it, or its equivalent here are a number of attractive benefits that can be obtained by a young trained farmer. So what are these benefits and why is there such a demand for the Teagasc Green Cert? There are Educational Requirements for certain Department of Agriculture and Revenue Schemes; more often than not these schemes will be of financial benefit to the young trained farmer. Some of these schemes are outlined below. Revenue – Stamp Duty Relief Revenue – Agricultural Stock Relief DAFM – New – Entrant in a Registered Farm Partnership DAFM – TAMS Scheme (60% grant) DAFM – National Reserve DAFM – Young Farmers Scheme (25% top-up) The QQI Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farm Administration (Teagasc Green Cert) is the minimum requirement for all of the above schemes. The DAFM trend in recent years requires applicants to have the course completed at the time of application. With a new CAP package presently being negotiated in Brussels for after 2020, it would be a shrewd move for young farmers to start planning their training now so they will be in a position to maximise their benefits under whatever CAP brings in the future.

GREEN CERT COURSES 2020 Part time and Distance Learning Courses commencing this Autumn In Teagasc office, Roscommon Applications and details from

Part time Course

Distance Learning Course

Therese Hilliard Teagasc Longford Contact: 043-3341021

Catherine Divilly/ Caitriona Corcoran Teagasc Roscommon 090-6626166

Contact

E mail: therese.hilliard@teagasc.ie or caitriona.corcoran@teagasc.ie

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Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Thursday 28th May 2020 Tom Kellegher Regional Manager www.teagasc.ie

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

FarmingPeople

Turf-cutting near Loughglynn recently. Picture: Michael McCormack

‘Farmers are fully engaged in climate action’ IFA expects our key issues to be reflected in the Programme for Government < A MESSAGE FROM IFA PRESIDENT, TIM CULLINAN

Three political parties will attempt to move forward the serious business of working out a Programme for Government. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael had already agreed a Framework document. Now the Green Party has voted to enter talks. It’s over 100 days since the country went to the polls. In normal times, a new Government would be assessed on its achievements in that time. Not so in the situation we have at the moment. If nothing else comes from Covid-19, we should approach significant policy decisions in a mature and measured way. The latest stark warning from the UN World Food Programme is that the pandemic will push an additional 130 million people to the brink of starvation. Undoubtedly, the Green Party will seek to extract concessions in return for participating in the next Government. The task for the two main parties is to avoid travelling down a cul-de-sac in the pursuit of ideology. The economic landscape is vastly different from what existed when we voted in early February. Re-building the public finances and supporting businesses post-Covid-19 will require a Programme for Government that nurtures the economy back to full health. And we have to safeguard the

backbone of our rural economy, which is agriculture. It has been very disappointing to see the debate narrowing to a head count of the national herd. For some in political and media circles, there would appear to be an obsession about reducing the national cow herd. The genesis of climate action, the Paris Agreement, states that emission reductions should not threaten food production. Some commentators simply refuse to accept that important premise. It’s also now clear the way methane from bovines is being accounted for in the climate figures is inappropriate. Climate research continues to evolve. For example, research from Oxford proposes a more accurate method of evaluating the climate impact of shortlived greenhouse gases such as methane, known as GWP*. This is important for Irish agriculture and should result in immediate changes on how methane is accounted for. To achieve this, the EPA, when compiling Ireland’s national GHG inventories, should use the GWP* calculation and Ireland should insist that the GWP* methodology is adopted at EU and UN levels. Neither are farmers getting credit for the carbon they are sequestering. We need to talk about net emissions from agriculture rather than gross emissions. Irish farmers have created and are managing a huge carbon sink through our pasture land, hedgerows and forestry, but farmers are not getting the credit for this. The Government must ensure that the full carbon sink provided by the sector is credited to agriculture. The danger is that we pursue a lazy narrative of cutting the national herd while ignoring the science and international climate policy. If we are to look at this in

a global context, there is increasing demand for the beef and dairy proteins that Irish farmers produce with nature, predominately from grass. Ireland is also one of the most carbon efficient countries in the world to produce food. If it’s not produced here, it will be produced elsewhere with higher emissions. Farmers are fully engaged in climate action. Future action for the sector, as set out by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Climate Action, is based on the implementation of Teagasc’s 2030 climate roadmap. To deliver this, IFA is proposing that: * Teagasc fully cost the implementation of the measures proposed; * A budget from non-CAP resources is created by Government and ring-fenced for farmers to deliver the actions of the Teagasc climate roadmap; * An implementation group, which includes IFA, relevant Government Departments and State Agencies, is established to drive the delivery of the measures proposed. Irish farmers have huge potential to provide renewable energy. However, the Government is focused on designing support schemes which are encouraging large-scale projects. We need an immediate and coherent plan to put farm-scale and communitybased renewables at the centre of Government policy. The Government response in this area has been next to non-existent. If we are to make headway, let’s look at a fundamental re-draw of how the bio-economy can work, not the threat of a land-use policy. The emphasis should be on carbon efficiency, environmental and economic sustainability, not on reducing cattle numbers. IFA will monitor the ongoing discussions and we will expect our key issues to be reflected in the Programme for Government.

New Government must deliver for Irish Farmers During these unprecedented times farming and food security has never been so important. Farmers require an APS and BEAM scheme for all sectors Access to markets is vital both locally and internationally Live exports must be protected to create competition in the market place Environmental considerations must be agreed with farmers, the key stakeholder Easy access to low cost loans

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

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Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

Sports PEOPLE

Reeling in the Archives

5 YEARS AGO Rossies rout the Royals! U-21 Hastings Cup, Round 2 Roscommon 4-12 Meath 0-1 Roscommon U-21s boosted their chances of retaining the Hastings Cup when they recorded a facile victory over Meath in the second round of the competition in Ashbourne on Saturday afternoon last. Taking nothing away from the professionalism of the Roscommon display, one wonders how seriously Meath took the game, as they fielded a very understrength side, which was reflected in the result. In fairness to Mark Dowd’s troops they could only beat what was put in front of them and whilst availing of a gale-force wind in the opening half Roscommon raced into a 3-9 to 0-0 lead, with Diarmuid Murtagh scoring two goals and Henry Walsh grabbing another. The scoring levelled off after the restart but substitute John Gannon added a fourth Roscommon goal in the 33rd minute before Meath’s solitary point in the game came from Shane McEntee after a series of wides from the home side. You have to admire the clinical edge which Roscommon displayed against this under-strength Meath team, but a tougher test of Mark Dowd’s troops’ credentials lies ahead against Cavan this weekend. Roscommon: R. Mannion; P. Neilan, S. Mullooly, D. Barron; T. McKenna, C. Hussey, S. Pettit (0-1); S. Killoran (0-1), T. O’Rourke (0-1); K. Kilcline, D. Pettit (0-2), E. Fallon; D. Murtagh (2-1), N. Connaughton, H. Walsh (1-3). Subs: M. Murtagh for Kilcline, J. Gannon (1-2) for Walsh, C. Brady for Mullooly, E. McGrath for S. Pettit, S. Farrell (0-1) for Murtagh, S. Flynn for O’Rourke. Referee: M. McNally (Monaghan). (From 16th January 2015)

4 YEARS AGO Late surge secures win for Boyle Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC (Group A) Boyle 3-11 Roscommon Gaels 3-9 A late surge from Boyle, which yielded 1-3, propelled the north Roscommon side to an important victory over Roscommon Gaels in a riproaring contest played in Orchard Park, Elphin last Sunday afternoon. In a game that ebbed and flowed throughout, it was Mick Jordan’s side who showed the greater will to win when the game was in the balance with time running out, turning a three-point deficit into a two-point winning margin in sensational fashion. Both teams enjoyed periods of dominance in the opening half but it was Boyle who drew first blood when Darren O’Connor fisted home in the 14th minute, at which point they led the tie by 1-2 to 0-3. The Gaels took nine minutes to reply, with Cian Connolly steering home a penalty in the 25th minute. But again the momentum switched to Boyle and three points on the trot from Kieran Cox, Cian McKeon and Jim Suffin handed them a two-point lead at the break – 1-5 to 1-3. Kieran Kilcline struck for the Gaels’ second goal in the 39th minute following a neat one-two with Cillian Egan, and they took control of the tie with points from James McDermott (0-2), Kilcline and Connolly, to lead 2-7 to 1-7 at the three-quarter mark. But Boyle rose again and substitute Cillian Cox goaled in the 51st minute, leveling matters with five

From 2013: The Fuerty team that won the Connacht Junior Football Championship Final. Picture: Andrew Fox

From 2019: Athleague’s David Delaney was forced to improvise after breaking his hurley as Four Roads’ Johnny Coyne shoots for a point during the Kepak SHC Final in Athleague. Pic: Mick McCormack

minutes remaining. There would still prove to be further twists in the tail as a Connolly goal put the Gaels back in the driving seat. However, it was Boyle who showed the greater desire late on with Mark O’Connor’s fisted effort accompanied by points from O’Connor, East and McKeon sealing victory, in what was one of the most enthralling games of the championship thus far. Boyle: R Kearney; G Gilmore, M Hanmore, C Beirne; D East (0-1), S Purcell, T McKenna; K Cox (0-1), R Hanmore; C Flanagan, J Suffin (0-1), M O’Donoghue; C McKeon (0-5), D O’Connor (1-2), D Callaghan (0-1). Subs used: M O’Connor (1-0), C Cox (1-0), C Goldrick. Roscommon Gaels: J Featherstone; Kevin Kilcline, L McNeela, R Gleeson; P Gleeson, J McManus, K O’Gara; D O’Gara (0-1), B O’Gara; A Duignan, C Egan, Kieran Kilcline (1-1); B Kelly; A Duignan, J McDermott (0-2), C Connolly (2-5). Subs used: O Hannon, R Horan, J Nolan, J O’Gara, J Conteh. Referee: V Hardiman. (From 19th August 2016)

Athleague clinch back-to-back titles Roscommon Camogie Senior Club Championship Final Athleague 0-12 Four Roads 1-6 Athleague made it back-to-back senior titles after a hard fought battle with old rivals Four Roads at

From 2016: Siobhán Tully was the Player of the Match as Kilbride won their first Ladies Senior Football title in Knockcroghery. Pic: Andrew Fox

Rockfield last Saturday evening. Athleague got ahead early in the game and held on throughout. Four Roads closed the gap to a point in the second half but Athleague pulled away again to win deservedly. Niamh Coyle was first to score for Four Roads but the defending champions hit six points without reply after that. Points from Niamh Farrell 3 (2 frees), Rachel Fitzmaurice (who was playing well at midfield) and Leanne Kelly (2). Then Four Roads narrowed the gap with points from Niamh Coyle and a Sarah Kelly free. A longrange free from Kelley Hopkins left Athleague ahead by four points at half-time. Athleague 0-7 Four Roads 0-3. A Rachel Fitzmaurice point stretched the lead to five before Four Roads staged a mini-recovery. Sarah Kelly pointed a free and then in the 44th minute she blasted a free to the Athleague net to leave only a point between the teams. But it was Athleague who finished best and points from Niamh Farrell 2 (one free) and from Rachel Fitzmaurice saw Athleague home safely with a three-point margin. After the game, the ‘Player of the Match’ award was presented to Athleague’s Rachel Fitzmaurice by the Chairperson of the Roscommon Camogie Board, Geraldine Beattie. Athleague: P Daly; N Brandon, E Daly, M Tiernan; N Brennan, K Hopkins (0-1), C Whyte Lennon; R Fitzmaurice (0-3), L Fleming; R Brennan, A McGeeney, N Conway; L Kelly (0-2), N Farrell (0-6), F Connell/Jones. Subs: L Keenan for R Brennan, C Ryan for Conway.

Four Roads: B Mannion; K Lawlor, E Lennon, M Glennon/Kelly; A Fallon, P Lennon, M Lohan; S Fallon, D Kelly; S O’Brien (0-1), S Kelly (1-3), N Coyle (0-2); C Kenny, G Dufficy, N Crean. Sub: L Carty for Crean. Referee: M Ryan. (From 21st October 2016)

2 YEARS AGO Pearses’ remain top dogs! U-21 Hurling Championship Final Pádraig Pearses 0-17 St Dominic’s 0-9 Pádraig Pearses were the masters in this one-sided final in Athleague on Wednesday night last and claimed their fifth county U-21 hurling title in a row. With Daniel Glynn in typically deadly form from the placed ball, Pearses got off to a good start and led 0-6 to 0-1 at the end of the first quarter and by half-time they were ahead by 0-10 to 0-5. Dominic’s never gave up trying but Pearses never released their firm grip on proceedings and they coasted to an impressive win. Scorers: Pádraig Pearses: D Glynn (0-13), K Fehily (0-2), M Comerford and J Donoghue (0-1) each. St. Dominic’s: MJ Egan (0-3), C Kennelly, J Lohan and T Doyle (0-2) each. (From 31st August 2018)

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

SportsPeople

No spectators – but some welcome live sport! Sports fans were thankful for small mercies at the weekend, with some real, live charity golf in Florida, and much interest in everyone’s new favourite soccer league – the Bundesliga. The global welcoming party included SEAMUS DUKE… I had never sat down and watched a Bundesliga game live until last Saturday. But the German League was back and live on BT Sport at the weekend, as Dortmund played Shalke in what is a local derby match. I tuned in. Under normal circumstances there would be a raucous atmosphere and a packed stadium. Watching a game of top class soccer with no spectators was unnerving to say the least – and a little weird. The shouts of the players and the referee’s whistle were the only sounds to be heard (apart from the commentators) and it was strange to see the subs sitting several seats apart, all wearing masks. However, this was live sporting

action, and while it wasn’t a classic, Dortmund were very impressive (they won 4-0). When they scored you could clearly hear the sound of the ball hitting the back of the net. Needless to say, there was no hugging or group celebrations after those goals. A stadium that has an 88,000 capacity was deserted. Still, it was brilliant to see some live sport after nine weeks of a famine. Later on Sunday, the golf was back too. It may only have been a charity challenge, but it was competitive and worth watching. Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson took on young guns Rickie Fowler and Matthew Wolfe. It was played in a very relaxed fashion and the four players involved raised over 5 million dollars for Covid-19 charities. McIlroy hit the winning shot on the play-off hole. It whets the appetite for a return to serious action on the PGA Tour in the coming weeks. An empty Hyde… Meanwhile, in normal circumstances – had Roscommon footballers beaten London in

Ruislip on the first Saturday in May – there would be huge hype and excitement in the county this week as Mayo would be coming to Dr. Hyde Park to face the Rossies on Saturday evening in the Connacht semi-final. After last year’s dramatic win by Roscommon in Castlebar, there would be huge interest in the game, with a capacity crowd, live TV, etc. Alas, the scene in Dr. Hyde Park this weekend will be empty stands and terraces, and perhaps a gentle summer breeze blowing!

“

The scene in Dr. Hyde Park this weekend will be empty stands and terraces, and perhaps a gentle summer breeze blowing!

Pictured at Roscommon Golf Club are Ms. Tresina Smyth (President), Mr. Tommie Grealy Jnr. (Captain) and Dr. Sandra Black Kelly (Lady Captain).

Back on course… President Ms. Tresina Smyth, Captain Mr. Tommie Grealy Jnr. and Lady Captain Dr. Sandra Black Kelly together with the support of the Management Committee and other sub-committees within Roscommon Golf Club have worked tirelessly over the last eight weeks and have left no stone unturned in preparation for the safe return to play on Monday last. The Club are extremely grateful to all club volunteers who

have worked in the background over the last while keeping things afloat. Members are fully aware of their obligations to ensure that HSE and GUI guidlelines are strictly adhered to. On the day the light sprinkling of rain that fell on occasion could not dampen the delight and enthusiasm of the 155+ golfers that returned to the fairways. It was wonderful to have a little buzz (albeit strangely subdued) back on the course.

Roscommon Golf Club would like to acknowledge the many members who continue to work at the frontline of this crisis and those who are providing many essential services: “We want you to know that we are hugely proud of your efforts and hope you get some time in the near future to get out on the course. We are also aware that not every member can make a return to the course in phase one; we look forward to your return when it is safe to do so”.

Horses by Tom Red for Courses

The parade ring which was extended with new presentation area in the centre.

General News

British racing hopes to recommence on next Monday, the 1st June, at Newcastle with an 8-race card on the all-weather. The 2,000 Guineas will be held on Saturday June 6 and the 1,000 Guineas on Sunday the 7th at Newmarket. Intrenational trained runners will only be allowed to compete in the Coronation Cup, 2000 Guineas and 1000 Guineas. Irish champion trainer Aidan O’Brien has won the last three runnings of the 2000 Guineas and three of the last four renewals of the 1000 Guineas. He is also the leading trainer in the Coronation Cup with eight victories. Under current Irish regulations staff returning from Britain with horses would be required to quarantine for 14 days, this could cause problems. Last Saturday’s Lockhinge Stakes at the cancelled Newbury meeting will not be rearranged. The first Group 1 race to fall foul of the Covid-19 in Britain this season. In Ireland it has been confirmed by Government and HRI that horse racing will resume at Naas racecourse, behind closed doors, on June 8th some 21 days earlier than originally expected following extensive lobbying and negotiating by HRI. There are 2 Listed Stakes on the card. The first Group 1 race takes place at the Curragh on Friday the 12th, the 2000 Guineas with the 1000 Guineas on the following day. Most of the Group 1 races in Ireland will be accommodated on the scheduled day and course. The 14-day quarantine period here will also cause problems staff coming over from Britain, especially jockeys. Flat racing at Lenabane is scheduled to start on Monday 15th a date they share with Fairyhouse and a week later on the 22nd, a date shared with Limerick who host the first scheduled national hunt card. Roscommon

The finishing straight looking a million dollars

have their first national hunt card on Wednesday the 24th, a date shared with a flat meeting at Nass. Kilbeggan start their season on the 29th, a date shared with a flat card at Limerick. Roscommon is the only course in the west to receive dates and this is due to the tremendous work of Michael Finneran, his staff and Board of Directors in the carrying out ongoing development on the course and facilities, at considerable expense, over the past few years. The provision of the extra stables, meets the protocol requirement of 1 stable per horse, the drainage to the track etc. over the last number of years is the reason that Roscommon has received the 3 meetings in the first release of fixtures. The track looked in excellent condition yesterday and the parade ring has received an extension and uplift over the winter. Racecourses in the state of New York have been given political clearance to resume racing behind closed doors from June 1. Racing has been suspended since March 19th. New York includes tracks at Belmont Park, Aqueduct and Saratoga, Belmont is the home of the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, which was scheduled for June 6th. Following eight successful days of racing in France the French Government has decreed that it is withdrawing approval for racing in parts of the country where Coronavirus is more prevalent. This includes the area around the Paris which includes a number of racecourses such as ParisLongchamp, Auteuil, Saint Cloud and Chantilly, all who have raced since the resumption of French racing. The new measures will allow racing to continue in Normandy, the south and the west of the country and the card at ParisLongchamp today has been transferred to Deauville.

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY ‘On the GAA pitches of the land, he rose gracefully and carried our dreams with him’ HEROES

REFLECTIONS ON SPORTING INSPIRATIONS

‘Great sporting performances have always grabbed the imagination of the young of all ages as they fantasize about emulating the glorious feats of their heroes. William Butler Yeats exhorted people to go to their graves empty, having not wasted a moment of their lives. Dermot need have no worries on that score. It is given to few mortals to become eternally remembered after their stint in this vale of tears is over, even fewer as a consequence of their achievements on the GAA fields. With the passing years names like Christy Ring and Seán Purcell have an even stronger evocative power: they are a chant, an invocation, a beckoning magic for fans. Dermot belongs in such elite company. He will forever remain a true Roscommon icon’ – From ‘Dermot Earley: An officer and a gentleman’ by John Scally 1977. By the time I was allowed join the wonderful crepe paper-wearing excursions – bundled into modest, rattling cars to travel to Roscommon games, conditioned to expect that the day would only bring joy – his reputation preceded him. He was our Superman; for a few summers we had already been daydreaming that we ‘were’ him. Already, the imprint of his greatness lingered in every part of the country, on modest pitches and in our finest stadiums, where hundreds of thousands of people had inevitably found their county loyalties at least briefly suspended as their senses succumbed to the magnificence of this modern-day chieftain. Discovering Gaelic football as a young boy in the mid-1970s, I realised that ours was a multi-gifted team that could strut with the best in the land, and that its leader and chief – the man who, according to our crepe hats, would lead us to ever-newer heights – was also a role model for footballers everywhere, a symbol of sportsmanship, a man of eminent stature who commanded the respect and affection of the nation. I realised that a burgeoning golden era in Roscommon football was perhaps the happy consequence of a perfect storm…the emergence of a marvellous generation of players, visionary management, and the calming, inspirational presence of a unique man…a Chieftain in football boots. I’m conscious, in writing this, that I missed his many notable feats from his emergence in the mid-1960s through to the beginning of the 1977-80 glory era. I’m no expert on Dermot Earley. Others are. But I must include him in this ‘Heroes’ series, because the Michael Glavey’s man was a true hero to thousands of GAA fans, me included. This man was in the business of sportsmanship and the modest pursuit of excellence. He was much decorated – an All-Ireland U-21 medal, five Connacht senior medals, a National League winner’s medal, two AllStars, accolades aplenty. He was the first player to play county minor, U-21 and senior football in the same year. And yet, inevitably it seems, any profile of or conversation about Dermot Earley will almost certainly categorise him as ‘one of the best players never to win an All-Ireland’…

Dermot Earley pictured with his son and on right pictured in action in 1985.

It matters. Of course it matters. Even now, close your eyes and you can time travel to the wretched broken dreams of 1980. I can’t imagine how raw it might still be for the players. Of course it matters. But Dermot Earley’s football legacy is not dependant on scrutiny of any roll of honour. There was, cruelly, no All-Ireland senior medal on Dermot’s mantelpiece, no such medal in the mythical ‘back pocket’, which, as ‘GAA Man’ would have it, supposedly empowers the bearer to forever more puff his chest out and hold his head above the rest. Dermot could puff his chest out in any company, though modesty dictated he was slow to do so. No, I venture to suggest, that the absence of an All-Ireland senior medal takes nothing from the enduring legend of the man. Certainly it’s unfortunate, for it would have been richly deserved. But we do not measure greatness by the glint of gold. We all know the quirks of sporting fate. Lesser players reached the Promised Land in Croke Park. And good luck to them. Dermot Earley’s legacy is built on our memories of his feats. Think of what we saw and felt when Dermot Earley was on the field, and think nothing much of the medal that never came. Think of the magnificence of his fielding, those powerful runs, his assured free-taking, the inspirational scores, his sportsmanship, his leadership, think of this force of nature who thrilled his people. The medal, close enough in 1977 and 1979, in 1980 especially – when on a fateful day Dermot and his colleagues left 15 of them behind – would have been a fitting prize for a Chieftain. But he was a GAA great who did not really need the affirmation of gold. Walk into a room with three All-Ireland winners to the right of you, and Dermot Earley to your left, and chances are you’d have been drawn to the pride of Gorthaganny. If his name wasn’t Earley, some genius would have come up with some other pun. No need. The hats and flags bore the slogan: ‘Earley to rise’. We clambered into different cars on different days, several kids in the back, all of us hyper with the pulsating promise of the day. It makes no sense to suggest it, but was it always sunny? Flasks of tea and sandwiches for the adults, crisps and minerals for the kids. The crepe hats were basic, but worn with enormous pride. The Hyde was home, other Connacht grounds part of a kingdom which Roscommon ruled. Croke Park was the Holy Grail. At Dorset Street we accepted

our culchie casting in this drama. The excitement was almost overwhelming. The walk along Jones Road….we wanted to get to the stadium, yet we almost feared the moment of truth. Nervous energy they might call it now. If we could stop time then, just as we took our place in the great cauldron, clutching our Roscommon flags – our heroes emerging – we might just have encountered eternal happiness. After the 1977 Connacht final win, the anguish of a rollercoaster semi-final (Roscommon led Armagh by seven, were reeled back in for a draw, the Ulster champions winning the replay by a point). Connacht glory again in ’78, with Earley majestic in the final. Roscommon were hammered by Kerry in the All-Ireland semi-final, but completed a Connacht three-in-a-row in ’79. The gladiatorial-like atmosphere at the 1979 AllIreland semi-final against Dublin remains fresh in my memory. It was the last game I would attend with my brother Gerard, who died later that year. We sat, with friends, high in the Cusack Stand, gripped by the intensity of the combat below, and the thunderous noise around us. So damn close. Dublin, by a wretched point. Roscommon did win the National League Final in ‘79 (hammering Cork). I was there. Jimmy Barry Murphy (held scoreless) presumably wishes he wasn’t. As for the championship, there was always next year. Didn’t Johnny Logan sing What’s Another Year in 1980? 1980 happened, and I won’t pause there again, not this time. Roscommon left the great prize behind, into the barely grateful embrace of the mightiest team the game had ever seen. It was a wonderful Roscommon team, a joyous era, but painstakingly climbing the mountain – only to slip at the summit – had taken its toll. Who knows what despair, regret, perhaps even anger, lurked within our heroes as they togged out in ’81? Decline came earlier than might have been expected. It was over. Earley, with customary dedication and pride, played on, a great servant to the end, completing a remarkable 20-year career on a summer’s day in ’85. 20 years in a Roscommon senior jersey. Magnificent. He was very skilled, certainly, but it was the combination of his qualities that made him the legend he became. He was a leader. One thinks of his motivational speeches over the years, including to the Roscommon minors during their All-Ireland

winning campaign of 2006. Dermot Earley rose within the Irish Defence Forces, reaching the very top (Chief of Staff). Earley to rise. He also had a distinguished career with the UN and played key peacekeeping and diplomatic roles on the international stage. Yes, if he’d never kicked a football, Roscommon people would have been proud of Dermot Earley. But he did kick a football too, as it happens… ‘Men are not judged in my lifetime by the number of honours but by their behaviour in the pursuit of honours. Dermot had the greatest medal of all. He had respect. Wouldn’t that be great to have on your tombstone? “This man had great respect”’ – Jimmy Magee I only met or interviewed him a few times, hardly ever about football. But you don’t need to know your heroes well for them to be your heroes. It’s not as if Muhammad Ali used to ring me every other week. Once, while working for the Roscommon Champion, I rang Dermot, when he was in some foreign land, engrossed in peace negotiations. We proudly published the interview on the front page. Then one year we asked if he’d honour us by launching the Roscommon Association Yearbook, which I was editing at the time. That night in Tom Maye’s in Dublin was my first time to receive one of Dermot Earley’s crunching handshakes. A sore honour, that was. A county, and more beyond, bereft at his untimely death ten years ago this summer. His name will echo through the ages. He commanded respect. A great family man, he stood for the best of values. On the GAA pitches of the land, he rose gracefully and carried our dreams with him. A great Roscommon man. Thanks for the memories, Dermot. Chief, Chieftain, sportsman. A hero forever.

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 For previous columns, see www.roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 22 May 2020