17 January 2025 - Roscommon People by RossiePeople

The quest for justice for Liam Farrell SPECIAL REPORT INSIDE

Daly tipped to join

in junior minister ranks

Dr Martin Daly TD, Fianna Fáil’s newly-elected representative for Roscommon-Galway, is tipped to be appointed as a junior minister following the formation of a new government next Wednesday.

There are high expectations locally that the well respected Ballygar doctor will be appointed a Minister of State, with some speculation about a potential cabinet role.

Next Wednesday, January 22nd, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin is expected to be elected Taoiseach, marking the formation of a new government. Reports from Government

Buildings late on Tuesday evening (January 14th) conﬁrm that a deal has been reached for a Programme for Government.

The agreement will see the Regional Independent Group of TDs and the Healy-Rae brothers from Kerry joining Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael in exchange for several sub-cabinet ministerial positions.

Fianna Fáil is set to take up eight of the 15 senior cabinet positions, with Fine Gael ﬁlling the remaining seven.

Deputy Martin is expected to serve as Taoiseach for three years, with Fine Gael leader Simon Harris TD starting out as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs before

returning as Taoiseach for the ﬁnal two years of the government’s term.

Galway East Independent TD Sean Canney and Galway West Independent TD Noel Grealish are set to take up ‘super junior’ ministries, allowing them to attend cabinet meetings but without voting rights.

Sligo-Leitrim Independent Marian Harkin is expected to take a junior ministry, likely in Higher Education, while Athlone TD Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran will return to his former role as Minister of State for the Ofﬁce of Public Works, a position he held in the 2016 to 2020 administration. See more on page 8.

Paul Healy, Editor of Roscommon People and Dr. Martin Daly (Fianna Fail) in conversation during a recording of Roscommon People #GE24 Podcast last November.

Additional Needs Payment

I would like your help if possible, please. I am a pensioner, and my sole income is my State pension. I am worried about having very high heating bills as a result of the recent bad weather. What happens if I cannot meet the bills?

I would advise you to contact your local Community Welfare Ofﬁcer at your local Department of Social Protection ofﬁce and enquire about a welfare payment called Additional Needs Payment. This payment is designed to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income such as increased fuel or electricity costs.

You may get an Additional Needs Payment if you are currently receiving a social welfare payment, or if you are working and on a low income. However, there is also provision to qualify for this this payment even if you are not receiving a social welfare payment.

When you apply for the payment, your income and circumstances will be assessed to ﬁnd out if you qualify.

You can get the Additional Needs Payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income such as increased Fuel or electricity costs; Essential repairs to property, including, replacing household appliances and furniture; Funeral costs; Deposits for private rented accommodation; Bedding and cooking utensils, if you are setting up home for the first time; Food, clothing and shelter after an emergency event such as a fire or flood; Recurring travel costs to hospital for appointments, or for visiting a relative in hospital or prison; Prams, buggies, cots, or essential child safety equipment. This list is not exhaustive, other expenses can be covered too.

There is no set rate for an Additional Needs Payment amount. The amount you receive will depend on your circumstances and what you need help with.

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

In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

The boyos have NOT been sacked. Neither have they resigned. These are mischievous rumours, presumably started by jealous peers, that’s if the boyos have any peers.

But the boyos’ weekly column on Page 2 didn’t appear in the ﬁrst two issues of 2025, you might say. Maybe so, but have you considered that the boyos might have been on holidays, skiing down stunning slopes in a breathtakingly beautiful mountain range in Austria, before sipping sublime cocktails at night? Fair enough, they weren’t, but did you consider it?

The rumours

Of course there has been much speculation as to who might have spread rumours that the boyos had been sacked, or submitted their resignation in a ﬁt of pique (while pouring Guinness over the Editor’s head as a particularly wild Christmas night out descended into chaos).

Completely chilled about the rumours, the boyos – through their lawyers – wish to make it clear that they bear no ill will towards those responsible, and will be happy to consider all offers of ﬁnancial compensation.

The ‘jealous columnists’ theory

One thing the boyos want to make clear is: they do NOT subscribe to the scurrilous suggestion that a jealous columnist

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

might have spread the rumour that Page 2 of the Roscommon People is about to become free.

“The guys who write for the People and the Herald are above suspicion” the boyos said in a statement posted on X/Twitter under 273 posts by some sad attention seeker called Elon Musk.

“All of our rival, er, fellow column-

We weren’t sacked, we didn’t resign, we’re still here… Happy New Year!

ists in the People and the Herald are dedicated professionals of the highest integrity… yes, they might be slightly envious of us, but they’d never stoop so low as to betray the unofﬁcial columnists’ club!”

The gossip

While the boyos are back on Page 2, there is still speculation that all is not well between them and the Editor. Yes, threats to replace the boyos with Joe Brolly have eased, but that’s only because the Editor has gone off Brolly himself. The truth is that the Editor has been bouncing names of possible replacements off friends.

There’s talk of Declan Nerney being signed up, talk of the Healy-Raes being spread over pages 4 and 5, a bizarre suggestion that Brian McFadden might be enlisted, even a claim that Vincent Browne could be coaxed out of retirement.

One source insists the Editor has conﬁded that he intends to get rid of the boyos in 2025 and elevate the content of the column by drafting in Jedward.

Update

Just before we went to press, the Editor issued a statement: “The Board of the Roscommon People has full conﬁdence in the boyos”.

Boyos: “Oh dear!”

It’s been a GOOD week

for…

Kerry sisters Ciara, Saoirse and Laoise Murphy, with the pupils from Presentation Secondary School in Tralee being announced as winners of the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (congratulations to all local winners and participants here in Co Roscommon)

Cuala and Errigal Ciarán, the two clubs that have qualiﬁed for this year’s AllIreland Club Football ﬁnal

It’s been a BAD week for…

Patients, with local hospitals experiencing severe overcrowding due to a spike in people attending with ﬂu and other respiratory-related complaints

PIC OF THE WEEK: Action from Creggs v Corrib RFC in the BOI Connacht Junior Cup last weekend. A smiling Shane Purcell (Creggs) on a mazy run, evading opponents! Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Local beautician prepares for busy and exciting London trip with Repêchage

Louise Conneally-Dowd of Louise’s Beauty Studio in Roscommon town is busy preparing for a jam-packed three-day trip to London with renowned skin care brand Repêchage.

The trip will take place at the beginning of March, and will see the local award-winning beautician attend two major events; the 2025 Professional Beauty London exhibition and Repêchage’s 2025 Day of Empowerment.

The Professional Beauty London exhibition, described as Europe’s biggest beauty event, will take place across two days: March 2nd and 3rd 2025.

This exhibition, which runs annually, draws industry professionals from across the world to attend educational sessions and workshops and interact with different brands.

Louise explains that she will be attending both days of the exhibition, during which Repêchage is set to launch new treatments, products, and some advanced trainings.

The third day of the trip, March 4th, will feature

what Louise calls the “main event” – Repêchage’s 2025 Day of Empowerment, with the Roscommon woman being a guest speaker this year.

The event, which aims to celebrate “success at every level”, will also hear from other accomplished speakers, such as Shiri Sarfati (partner and Chief Marketing Ofﬁcer of Repêchage), Yolanda Amador Origel (skin care specialist and spa director founder of Spa

Business & Solutions in Mexico), Angela Noviello (owner of Medi Spa in Italy and OTI Italian director and educator), and Lydia Sarfati (founder and CEO of Repêchage).

The event will take place at the Lincoln Plaza London Curio Collection by Hilton. In addition to providing an opportunity to hear from and be inspired by guest speakers, Repêchage’s Day of Empowerment will give

attendees from across the world the chance to network with other industry professionals, attend an interactive retail workshop, and learn tips to help them elevate their own business.

Louise explained that there’s some “busy weeks” in store for her at the moment as she undergoes preparations, including Zoom meetings with the Repêchage team in New York. The award-winning beautician explains that this busy schedule extends beyond daytime business hours, with the local business woman set to attend a series of events each night of her trip as well: “We will have a press photocall on the ﬁrst night, followed by a cruise on the Thames by Repêchage Ireland on night two, and night three is a drinks reception by Repêchage USA”.

To keep up to date with Louise ahead of her attendance at the 2025 Professional Beauty London exhibition and Repêchage’s 2025 Day of Empowerment, follow Louise’s Beauty Studio on Facebook and Instagram.

Mullooly calls for new full Garda investigation into death of Liam Farrell

Special report: Pages 16 & 17

MEP Ciaran Mullooly has renewed his call for transparency and accountability from An Garda Siochana regarding the unresolved circumstances surrounding the death of Liam Farrell, of Rooskey, County Leitrim, who died under suspicious circumstances in January 2020.

Speaking after meeting with the Farrell family last Sunday at the unveiling of a memorial plaque at Mr Farrell’s home in Rooskey to mark the ﬁfth anniversary of Liam’s death, MEP Mullooly expressed his deep concern over the lack of progress in the case.

“I met with the Farrell family at this moving ceremony and listened to their heartfelt appeal for answers,” said MEP Mullooly. “They have made it very clear to me that there is still a total lack of clarity about the circumstances surrounding their father’s death. While I understand a Garda review of the investigation is underway, I do not believe such an internal inquiry will bring any meaningful closure to the family. Their legitimate concerns must be addressed.

“The family remains convinced that a third party was involved in Li-

am’s death,” MEP Mullooly stated. “It is shocking that ﬁve years later, they still feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed by the authorities. This ongoing uncertainty is unacceptable”.

MEP Mullooly raised several critical questions about the original Garda investigation. He queried why no nationwide appeal for information was conducted at

the time and why a re-enactment of the incident was not featured on RTE’s Crimecall programme to generate public awareness. He also questioned how the blunt force injuries identiﬁed during Mr Farrell’s inquest align with Garda conclusions.

“On Sunday, the family of Mr Farrell invited me to personally examine the photographic evidence

taken after the death and the scene of the incident.

“My only conclusion after this distressing experience is that the Garda Commissioner must now appoint a senior ofﬁcer to carry out an entirely new inquiry into the death of Mr Farrell and the Minister for Justice must ensure this happens immediately,” MEP Mullooly added.

MEP Ciaran Mullooly (centre) pictured with brothers Peter (left) and Brendan Farrell at the unveiling of a plaque in memory of the late Liam Farrell in Rooskey on Sunday. Photo: Michael Finan

Knowledge seekers needed for 2025 Credit Union Schools Quiz

Roscommon Credit Union is inviting schools in County Roscommon to participate in the 2025 Credit Union Schools Quiz. The local round will be held on Sunday, 9th of February 2025, at 3 pm in Kilbride Community Centre, Four Mile House.

This annual quiz, the largest of its kind in Ireland, engages over 25,000 students and runs from February to April, culminating in a national ﬁnal on April 6, 2025, at the RDS Dublin.

The competition is divided into two age categories: under 11 and under 13, with teams consisting of four members. Schools can enter a maximum two teams – one from each category (eight students per school).

Participants will tackle questions covering geography, history, music, literature, and sport.

Schools interested in joining the challenge can contact Roscommon Credit Union to register for the local round.

Community mourns tragic passing of Róisín Cryan

The communities of Carrickon-Shannon and Ballina are in mourning following the untimely passing of Róisín Cryan, whose body was recovered from the River Moy in Ballina on Saturday morning. Originally from Attyrory, Carrick-on-Shannon, Róisín had been living and working in Ballina at the time of her death. She was in her late 20s.

Described as “a beautiful person, inside and out,” and “a beautiful soul,” Róisín’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from family, friends, and the wider community.

A mourner on RIP. ie expressed their sorrow, writing, “Róisín was such a kind and lovely person”.

Another paid tribute to her kind-hearted nature, noting, “I was extremely lucky to have met and worked with Róisín. She was a beautiful girl”.

Róisín was the cherished daughter of Joe and Marguerite Cryan and the loving ﬁancée of Conor Loftus, a Mayo footballer and member of the Crossmolina

Deel Rovers team. Conor’s team was due to compete in the All-Ireland Club Intermediate Championship ﬁnal at Croke Park on Sunday, but the match was postponed as a mark of respect.

In a statement, the Cryan and Loftus families expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received during this difﬁcult time.

Local councillor

Enda Stenson extended condolences to Róisín’s loved ones, calling her passing “a devastating loss for the community”.

Róisín reposed at The Heritage Centre, Chapel of Rest, Church Lane, Carrick-onShannon, on Monday, 13th of January. The removal took place to St Mary’s Church, Carrick-on-Shannon, on Tuesday evening. Funeral Mass on Wednesday was followed by burial in Drumlion Cemetery.

Róisín is mourned by her parents Joe and Marguerite, her sisters Annmarie, Clare, Ruth, and Maeve, her ﬁancée Conor Loftus, and a wide circle of relatives, friends, and colleagues. She is predeceased by her grandparents William and Mai Cryan, Bernard and Annie Donohue, her cousin Michael, her aunt Mary, and her uncle Hughie. The community will remember Róisín as a kind and warm-hearted individual. Her tragic passing has left a deep void in the lives of all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

Training underway for 2025 Roscommon Community Challenge

The Roscommon Community Challenge will take place this year on Friday night, March 7th with a 5 and 8km walk or run under the beautiful moonlight in Roscommon Town. This will be followed on Saturday, 8th of March by a 70km cycle.

The organisers have been in touch with the Roscommon People with some details. This will be the 13th annual such event.

The Moonlight Run/Walk/Jog training commenced on Monday (13th) and will continue every Monday and Wednesday evening until the main event on Friday, March 7th.

Training will start each evening at 7 pm sharp from Roscommon Community Sports Park (F42KP86). Cost for the eight-week, twice weekly session is €30. Register for the event on Eventbrite (online only) https://www.eventbrite. com/e/1080453398199

In a press statement, the organising committee said: “We are hugely indebted to Noel and his staff at Roscommon Sports Partnership. Without their help we would not be able to provide quality training by fully qualiﬁed tutors.

“So, if you are a complete beginner, or an experienced athlete, if you are a walker, a jogger, a runner or indeed if you want to set yourself a challenge to improve your health and ﬁtness, this is the place for you. Children (must be accompanied by an adult), grannies grandads, etc… everyone is welcome to what is a fun and challenging experience. No matter what level of ﬁtness you are currently at there is a place for you on our training programme.

“So, register now to be part of something special, improve your health and ﬁtness and at the same time know that you are helping a wonderful cause in Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Community Sports Park”.

Further information is available by calling 086 1721181.

THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT

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System 10 – helping local people achieve their health and weight loss goals!

The System 10 weight loss plan, which aims to offer participants the chance to potentially lose up to two stone in ten weeks, has been helping lots of local people with achieving their health and wellness goals.

The plan focuses on three ‘keys’ to genuine weight loss: diet, exercise, and metabolism correction. According to System 10, the latter is the most crucial, the ‘switch’ that controls the effectiveness of diet and exercise. System 10 runs programmes for

both men and women, with weekly clinics taking place every Wednesday at the Hive, Dublin Rd, Carrick-onShannon, and every Thursday at the Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon (F42 DX61). Booking is essential and can be done by calling 086 3846302. For more information, visit system10weightloss.com.

Testimonial from Edward and Margaret Molloy (Sligo)

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a year ago, and in that time it has completely transformed our lives. We had some health issues, mainly brought about by carrying some excess weight, but inside a few weeks, the change was incredible – and has continued up until the present day. Our lifestyle has become so much different in many ways, as difﬁcult tasks beforehand have now become much easier to undertake. This is due to not just the weight loss, but also the exercises – and even more so the conﬁdence gained by the superb

Appeal to Boyle public to conserve water

Uisce Éireann is appealing to customers in Boyle and surrounding areas to conserve water and protect supply.

The company says it is working to maintain water supply for the 7,000 customers served by the Boyle/Ardcarne Regional Water Supply Scheme following operational issues at Rockingham Springs Water Treatment Plant in recent days. This has resulted in reservoir levels depleting signiﬁcantly.

While reservoir levels recover and pressure builds in the water network, some customers in Boyle, Ardcarne, Grangemore, Croghan, Cortober Village and surrounding areas, may experience low pressure or interruption to supply.

In a press update issued on Tuesday, Uisce Éireann’s Ger Greally explained: “We regret any in-

convenience as a result of this issue and thank the local community for their patience as we work to restore normal supply. We are appealing to all customers in the impacted areas to conserve water during this time, as the reservoirs replenish. This will help prevent additional strain on the local supply”.Meanwhile, Uisce Éireann said on Wednesday that it is also working to restore water supply for customers on the North East Regional Water Supply Scheme following operational issues at Grange Water Treatment Plant.

These issues resulted in reservoir levels depleting signiﬁcantly and some customers in Elphin, Strokestown and surrounding areas have been experiencing disruption to their supply or low pressure.

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Testimonial from local woman Ita

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THURSDAY

On thin ice

It’s a PR company’s dream (well, not really; it’s just a quiet afternoon in the ofﬁce).

Today, as people who aren’t walking like penguins (as advised recently by RTE) continue to slip and slide in those parts of the country most affected by the much-hyped snow and frost, a press release arrives into the Roscommon People from one of the many PR companies engaged in trying to maximise media coverage for clients.

‘Dancing on Ice returns to Virgin Media Television this Sunday’ reads the headline. What wonderful timing!

Meanwhile, Micheál Martin and Simon Harris continue to woo Michael ‘Kingmaker’ Lowry, dismissing questions about the controversial Tipperary TD’s character.

It looks like FF and FG are about to do business with Lowry and his Regional Independents Group, with no government role on the cards for our own Michael Fitzmaurice and Independent Ireland.

Dancing on ice… or skating on thin ice?!

FRIDAY

Bunsen burner

Congratulations to all local students who participated so imaginatively in the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. In my day, there was none of the ingenuity we marvel at these days! We got very excited when a Bunsen burner was introduced into our class (early 1980s), but I think our notably memorable science/chemistry exposure more or less peaked at that.

FRIDAY

If the cap ﬁts…

Now it emerges that Deputies Michael and Danny Healy-Rae are in the ‘Government formation’ talks zone. Having previously met with Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin, the duo have now held talks with

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

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

the Taoiseach, Simon Harris. Could Ireland be about to have its ﬁrst ever (permanently) cap-wearing minister?

SATURDAY

Lough Funshinagh

I was pleased to hear positive news on the Lough Funshinagh issue. The affected residents have been living through a dreadful ordeal.

An Bord Pleanála has now approved an application by Roscommon County Council for the development of an interim ﬂood relief scheme to pump water from the lough and discharge it to the Cross River, within the townland of Carrick.

Roscommon Council and politicians across the political spectrum are welcoming this development, with the local authority saying it paves the way to provide much-needed relief to properties affected by the ﬂooding. In the meantime, efforts will continue to achieve a permanent solution.

SUNDAY

Famous birthdays

A glance at the ‘This week’s birth-

days’ section in the Sunday Independent is usually oddly satisfying. This weekend, it begins with a Roscommon man (Chieftains’ ﬂautist Matt Molloy celebrates his 78th birthday today).

As per the concept, there are many notable entries. Matt shares his birthday (12th of January) with former UK chat show host Michael Aspel, now a ripe old 92. I was surprised at how relatively young golfer Ronan Rafferty (61 on Monday), and snooker player Stephen Hendry (56, also on Monday) still are.

It’s interesting to see which celebrities share birthdays. Actor James Nesbitt, Claudia Winkleman (currently presenting Traitors on BBC One) and music promoter Pete Waterman all have their birthday on January 15th.

January 16th is also interesting: listed are singer Sade, model Kate Moss, radio presenter Ian Dempsey, snooker’s Cliff Thorburn, GAA star Denis ‘Ogie’ Moran, soccer’s Matt Doherty and James May (of Top Gear renown). Well, Dempsey is allegedly 64, but he is of course ageless. There’s another Roscommon music connection (kind of), as singer Paul Young celebrates his 69th birthday

on January 17th. Last summer, Paul married Roscommon woman Laura Kelly, who hails from Tarmonbarry. Love of the (Ros)Common People… sorry.

The ‘Wherever I Lay My Hat’ singer shares a birthday with both Michelle Obama and Jim Carrey (how is the latter now 63?).

Speaking of ‘How are they that age?’ type musings, if one-time youngestever Taoiseach Leo Varadkar turns 46 this Saturday (as he does), it’s a sobering reminder that we are all getting older.

Then again, if Samantha Mumba is only 42 this Saturday (as she is), it almost feels like we are all getting younger, or at least ageing more slowly than we thought!

MONDAY

In pursuit of justice

I went to Rooskey yesterday to attend the unveiling of a plaque at the residence of the late Liam Farrell, the nature of whose death in 2020 remains a mystery.

I’m originally from Rooskey. Liam was a family friend, and one of nature’s gentlemen. His family have been

through a harrowing time since his passing, with numerous unanswered questions concerning what happened in the early hours of January 12th, 2020.

Liam (87) was found dead outside the back door of his residence. His family are convinced that his death is suspicious and that their father was attacked by a third party.

There was a great turnout in Rooskey for Sunday’s ceremony as the people of the area came out in support of the Farrell family. A highlevel Garda review of the original investigation is now underway. The Farrell family, and the local community, must get the answers – and justice – they deserve. We have a special report on pages 16 & 17.

TUESDAY

Tony Slattery

It’s sad how many great comedians have ‘demons’ – the latter probably not a very PC word to use in this context. Be that as it may, I was saddened to hear of the passing today, aged 65, of British comedian Tony Slattery.

I read an interview in one of the British Sunday papers a year or two ago in which Slattery spoke about his mental health struggles. At the time, he spoke optimistically of a career comeback. It was well underway. He launched a podcast just last October and had a tour planned.

Readers who recall the popular Channel 4 show ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ – it ran from 1988 to 1999 – will remember Tony Slattery, then in his prime. He was a regular on the very popular improvisational programme along with fellow comedians such as Stephen Fry, Rory Bremner and Paul Merton.

Gifted, and very highly regarded by his peers, Tony Slattery had many struggles in latter years, and it is very sad that he has died just as he was going back on tour. As a pioneering comic talent, he shone very brightly. And he was loved. May he rest in peace.

Transform your home with Mark Lohan Kitchens

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New government set to be formed next Wednesday

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Next Wednesday, January 22nd, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin is expected to be elected Taoiseach, marking the formation of a new government. Reports from Government Buildings late on Tuesday evening (January 14th) confirm that a deal has been reached for a Programme for Government.

The agreement will see the Regional Independent Group of TDs and the Healy-Rae brothers from Kerry joining Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael in exchange for several subcabinet ministerial positions.

Fianna Fáil is set to take up eight of the 15 senior cabinet positions, with Fine Gael filling the remaining seven. According to sources involved in the government formation talks, Fine Gael leader Simon Harris TD will move into the role of Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs. This arrangement is to last for three years, after which Harris is expected to become Taoiseach for the final two years of the government’s term.

Sligo-Leitrim Independent

Marian Harkin is expected to take a junior ministry, likely in Higher Education, while Athlone TD Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran will return to his former role as Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, a position he held in the 2016 to 2020 administration.

Michael Healy-Rae, often regarded as the de facto monarch of Kerry, is expected to assume a junior ministry in agriculture, potentially focusing on forestry. His brother Danny Healy-Rae is also due to support the deal.

Several Independent TDs, including veteran Michael Lowry and newcomers Gillian Toole and Barry Heneghan, are anticipated to support the government from the backbenches as part of the proposed deal. In total, about 95 TDs are now set to support the next Government.

Local impact

Locally, the arrangement will leave Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitz-

maurice and Sinn Féin TD

in opposition. Deputy Fitzmaurice did attend Government formation talks for a couple of hours last week, but his party will not be involved in the new administration.

Dr Martin Daly TD, Fianna Fáil’s newly-elected representative for Roscommon-Galway, is tipped for a junior ministry.

The well respected Ballygar doctor could be appointed a Minister of State, with some speculation about a potential cabinet role. However, it is rare for a first-time TD to be appointed to cabinet without prior experience as a backbencher or junior minister.

Programme for Government

The Programme for Government was set to be published as the Roscommon People went to print. Early reports suggest it includes changes to VAT rates for food businesses, reducing them from 13.5 per cent to 9 per cent.

Other key measures include abandoning the 2:1 infrastructure spending split favouring public transport over roads – previously insisted upon by the Green Party – and advancing the Occupied Territories Bill.

Galway East Independent TD Sean Canney

Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitzmaurice

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane

Claire Kerrane

23 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula Hospital

There were 23 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe on Friday of last week, according to ﬁgures provided by the INMO (Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation).

Most hospitals nationwide are experiencing some level of overcrowding at present, exacerbated by a spike in ﬂu and other respiratory conditions.

On Friday, 10th of January, there were 23 patients on trolleys in Portiuncula; ﬁve in the emergency department and 18 in wards elsewhere in the hospital.

That same day, there were 43 on trolleys in Sligo University Hospital, 54 on trolleys in University Hospital Galway, and just six in Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar.

RSPCA Church gate collections

The Roscommon Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (RSPCA) will be holding its annual church gate collections at the following churches next weekend.

Collections will be held on Saturday, January 25th, at Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Aughrim, and St Michael’s Church in Drumlion.

This collection is a great opportunity for the RSPCA to raise much-needed funds for animal welfare work and also to raise awareness of their mission and vision.

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

Pictured are pupils of Ballyforan NS. An Open Evening will be held at the school on Monday, January 27th next. All welcome! See details on advertisement on this page.

Seanad Elections 2025: the local names to watch

(And a little bit of clarity on the complex electoral system)

EMMETT CORCORAN holds his hands up to one erroneous statement, one ambiguous statement… and takes a second pass at explaining the Seanad in briefer and more digestible terms!

With the 2025 Seanad elections approaching, there are five local candidates vying for seats in the next Seanad.

So, who is in the race locally?

Putting aside the fact that Seanad constituencies are designed to not be geographically based, instead electing members to university panels, vocational panels and allowing for 11 appointments by the Táoiseach… in Ireland, all politics is ultimately local.

NUI candidates

So, with respect to the university panels, political newcomers Hilary Beirne (Boyle) and Mairead Kenny (Donamon) are both new Seanad candidates seeking a seat on the National University of Ireland panel which is voted for by degree graduates of that institution.

Established NUI senators Ronan Mullen and Michael McDowell also have tangential links to Roscommon with the McDowell family owning a holiday home outside Rooskey.

Meanwhile, Mullen has strong ties to Ballinasloe and East Galway having been born and raised in Ahascragh, Co Galway.

Familiar faces

When it comes to the vocational panels, this is usually where we see the ‘familiar’ political faces competing on over-subscribed panels, often against the odds.

This time around, Eugene Murphy is contesting the Seanad’s Agriculture Panel with an outside nomination. While all Seanad candidates are technically ‘non-party’, Eugene is contesting the seat this time without the endorsement and affiliation of his former political party of well over 40 years, Fianna Fáil.

In recent weeks, Murphy has heavily emphasised his 40-year career in politics and points to having given up his music promotion and landscaping businesses when he was elected as a Fianna Fáil TD in 2016. He is on the record essentially saying that if he is unsuccessful in securing a Seanad seat it will mark the end of his political career, shy of retirement age, which has spanned 40 years.

Aisling Dolan is a prominent Fine Gael politician and will also be contesting the Agricultural Panel. She too has an outside nomination. A two-time General Election candidate for Fine Gael (in 2020 and again in 2024), Dolan finished 5th in 2020 and 4th in 2024.

In this competitive three-seater, Dolan has proven popular among her political party colleagues but her electoral performance and chances of taking a Dáil seat for Fine Gael appear to be entering last chance territory.

If I was to guess, given that Dolan has seen an improvement in her finishing position in the consecutive elections, and in light of her ability to toe the party line, I would imagine that if Dolan is successful in retaining a seat in the Seanad she will have a strong running mate in the northern part of the Roscommon-Galway consistency at the next General Election.

Eugene Murphy is based in Scramogue and Dolan is based in Ballinasloe. Additionally, former Fianna Fáil TD for Longford-West-

meath and Lanesboro native, Joe Flaherty is contesting the Cultural and Educational Panel with an inside nomination.

A little clarity?

Here is a clear and concise guide to how Ireland’s upper parliamentary house is structured. This article explains the vocational panels, university panels, and Taoiseach’s appointees in plain terms, focusing on how candidates qualify and seats are filled.

It is also worth noting that all candidates for the Seanad, whether affiliated to a political party or not, appear on the ballot paper without any party affiliation noted.

That’s unlike in Dáil and local elections where the registered political party the candidate is competing the election on behalf of is listed on the ballot paper (a legal requirement). Perhaps an indication of Dev’s great vision for the Seanad being “independent but not too independent”, and you’ll have to read my explainer in Roscommon People issued dated 3/1/25 to truly appreciate this comment.

Seanad panels

The Seanad’s panels were created under the 1937 Constitution to represent specific sectors of society. However, the details of how

they operate – including their composition, candidate eligibility, and voting procedures – are defined by statute, particularly the Seanad Electoral (Panel Members) Act, 1947 and Seanad Electoral (University Members) Act, 1937.

There are five vocational panels with a total of 43 seats. Each panel has seats reserved for candidates nominated by two groups: Oireachtas sub-panel (inside nominees): Candidates nominated by sitting TDs and senators. Nominating bodies sub-panel (outside nominees): Candidates nominated by independent organisations registered with the Clerk of the Seanad. Some panels also have ‘floating’ seats, which can be filled by candidates from either sub-panel.

Breakdown of vocational panels

1. Administrative panel (7 seats)

Inside nominees: 3 (at least)

Outside nominees: 3 (at least)

Floating seats: 1

(Represents public administration and social services)

2. Agricultural panel (11 seats)

Inside nominees: 4 (at least)

Outside nominees: 4 (at least)

Floating seats: 3

(Represents agriculture and fisheries)

3.Cultural and educational panel (5 seats)

Inside nominees: 2 (at least)

Outside nominees: 2 (at least)

Floating seats: 1 (Represents education, the arts, and Irish culture)

4. Industrial and commercial panel (9 seats)

Inside nominees: 3 (at least)

Outside nominees: 3 (at least)

Floating seats: 3

(Represents industry and commerce, including engineering and architecture)

5. Labour panel (11 seats)

Inside nominees: 4 (at least)

Outside nominees: 4 (at least)

Floating seats: 3

(Represents organised and unorganised labour)

Voting process

The electorate for vocational panels consists of members of the incoming Dáil, outgoing Seanad, and city and county councillors. Voting is conducted using the single transferable vote system via postal ballot. Each candidate must meet specific nomination requirements,

Mairead pledges to focus on ‘real solutions’

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Mairead Kenny, an independent candidate from Donamon, Co Roscommon, has been nominated for the NUI panel in the upcoming Seanad election. A Program and Project Management Consultant, Kenny is focusing her campaign on tackling critical national issues such as housing, homelessness, and commuting.

Kenny brings over 20 years of professional experience to the race, including extensive work in housing advocacy for renters and homeless people. She is a graduate of UCD (Electrical & Electronic Engineering), TUS Athlone (Computing), and TUD (Law LLB). She also holds PMP® certification in project management and has completed additional Law Society of Ireland examinations. Kenny’s career spans both the private and public sectors, with her independent consultancy work commencing in 2015 after a long tenure at Ericsson Ireland and International.

Describing her approach, Kenny said her diverse work background in Ireland and abroad equips her with the skills needed to implement evidence-based policy changes that benefit communities across Ireland.

Campaign priorities

At the core of Kenny’s campaign are policies aimed at addressing housing, affordability, commuting and public transport, alongside broader concerns about what she refers to as the cost and waste associated with “unnecessary election campaign leaflets” and the lack of regional representation in the Seanad.

Kenny advocates for fairer treatment of renters, including amendments to legislation affecting large investment landlords, and opposes additional costs such as “parking license fees” and additional charges for “pet rent” for renters already paying “exorbitant rent”. She also supports expanding financial assistance for buyers, including the vacant property refurbishment grant.

For more on Mairead’s campaign, see www.roscommonpeople.ie

and a quota ensures minimum representation from both inside and outside sub-panels.

University panels

In addition to the vocational panels, six senators are elected by two university constituencies:

National University of Ireland (NUI): 3 seats

University of Dublin (Trinity College Dublin): 3 seats

Candidates for these seats are not required to be graduates of the university they wish to represent; however, they must secure a proposer and seconder from registered voters in the constituency. In addition, they must secure eight additional ‘assentors’ who are registered voters from the same constituency. Only registered graduates of the respective universities are eligible to vote.

Taoiseach’s appointees

The Taoiseach nominates 11 senators after a general election, once a new government has been formed and a new Taoiseach is elected by the Dáil. These appointments are typically used to secure a government majority in the Seanad or to represent underrepresented groups. This flexibility allows for diverse voices in the chamber. In recent times, it has become a common trend that the Taoiseach of the day will appoint a prominent member of the Northern Ireland community and/or a member of the prominent member of the Irish diaspora in the United States. In efforts to forge ties with these communities and the Republic of Ireland, this trend has been broadly welcomed by the political establishment.

A constitutional framework defined by statute

The 1937 Constitution established the Seanad as a vocational body, but the practical details of its operation are set out in legislation. The Seanad Electoral (Panel Members) Act, 1947 governs the vocational panels, while the Seanad Electoral (University Members) Act, 1937 oversees the university constituencies.

This dual structure balances representation from political insiders, independent organisations, graduates, and appointees, ensuring the Seanad remains a key forum for legislative review and debate.

What to expect in 2025

As the 2025 Seanad elections draw near, the Clerk of the Seanad is overseeing nominations and compliance with statutory requirements. Deadlines for candidate nominations across the panels have been set, with the election process expected to follow established procedures.

*Clarification on the report published on page 14 of the January 3rd edition of the Roscommon People.

Seanad election candidate Mairead Kenny, from Donamon, Co Roscommon, pictured outside Gleeson’s in Roscommon with fellow Seanad candidate, Hilary Beirne, a native of Boyle, Co Roscommon.

ST. CIARAN’S

National School

Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

Are now accepting enrolments for 2025/26

Come along to our

Open Evening

on Wednesday 29th January from 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm.

Meet the teachers and see our great facilities. Application forms available on the night or by contacting the school on:

TELEPHONE : 090-6663433

Email : infofuertyns@gmail.com

Supervision from 8.30 am STEM, Music, Sport, Coding, Drama, German, Golf & Irish Dancing Arts & Crafts

Homework Club

After-school activities

Collection for after-school care

School bus available Green School

Bilingual

morning 25th January at Gaelscoil de

Gaelscoil de hÍde, the only Gaelscoil in the county, is holding an open morning on Saturday, January 25th from 10.30 am to 12 noon. Parents and children interested in enrolling in the school for September 2025 or 2026 are welcome to attend and learn what the Gaelscoil offers.

The open morning provides an ideal opportunity to explore the school and its facilities ﬁrst-hand, meet the principal and other members of the school community, and includes a formal address at 11 am.

*All mainstream subjects including German

Located at Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon town, Gaelscoil de hÍde was founded in 2000 and is growing from strength to strength throughout the years. This is a very exciting time for the Gaelscoil as our new Gaelscoil is in the design stage and we look forward to the completion of this large-stage project.

The Gaelscoil operates under the rules and regulations of the Department of Education and Science. It is a Catholic school. Irish is the medium of teaching in the school and it is also the means of communication between the teachers, children and Board of Management. The ethos of the school is to create a learning environment where the uniqueness of each child is nurtured.

Gaelscoil de hÍde offers:

*A mixed school with boys and girls being taught together from junior infants to sixth class

*Interactive whiteboards in all the classrooms and a fully equipped computer room and class iPads

*Two buses serving the school

*Sports - football, hurling, camogie, rugby, basketball and swimming.

*Debating and quizzes

*Student Council and Coiste na dtuistí

*Children prepared for Fleadhanna, Scór na bPáistí, The Big Sing, Féile Ceoil, Carol Service and Christmas concerts

*A large number of after-school activities e.g. Sport, golf, arts and crafts, music, STEM, ukulele and Irish dancing.

*Creative Ireland and Green Schools’ Programme

*Supervision in the school yard from 8.30 am every morning

*An afterschool homework club supervised by school staff

Gaelscoil de hÍde would like to welcome you along to our open morning on January 25th to hear about the school and consider for yourself if it suits your needs. Email eolasgaelscoildehide@gmail.com or phone Orla at 090 66 28860 for further information.

Táimid ag súil le bualadh leat ag an maidin oscailte.

Roscommon County Council presented its Greener Spaces Awards recently. In the Community Spaces category, Athleague Tidy Towns won the ‘Community Spaces’ award.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Highway(men) to country music Heaven

You will know by now that I like country music and when I can find it I like to watch Paul Claffey and Gerry Glennon’s music show on Sky TV. The problem is that the channel it’s on seems to change fairly often, although at the moment it’s to be found on Channel 588.

A couple of nights ago, purely by accident I chanced upon a concert by The Highwaymen which took place in 1990 –and I can only say it really blew me away.

For those who don’t know this, The Highwaymen consisted of four absolute superstars of American country music, namely Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash. The concert that I found was over two hours in length and featured each of those four at their very best.

I have to admit that I would be less familiar with Jennings than with the other three, but obviously he is a major figure in country music and hugely impressive on stage. The thing that came across from the show was the great camaraderie that seemed to exist between the four of them. A bit like our own Three Amigos, they all seemed to thoroughly enjoy what they were doing and were having great fun while they did it.

Back in 1990 they were all relatively young, but in the meantime three of them have headed off to Nashville in the sky. Remarkably, Willie Nelson – who has lived a very colourful life – is still going strong at 91 years of age. As a man who is well known for his use of marijuana and for the fact that at one time he used to smoke two or three packets of cigarettes a day, Willie has had some health problems through the years, but at 91 he continues to perform and is still one of the great characters of country music. Anyway, it was great to chance upon The Highwaymen the other night, and if it’s repeated I’d recommend that you have a look. You won’t be disappointed as they sing a lot of the huge hits each of them had over the years. Kristofferson, who only left this world in September, seemed to be the leader of the group, but all four contributed individually quite a lot, and it all added up to two and a half hours of incredible entertainment.

A sporting Sunday

It’s Sunday evening as I write and I have just had my sporting batteries recharged as our local rugby lads have finally played a game after nearly a month’s idleness. I cannot deny it was great to get back on to the sidelines (to either support or give out to our victorious lads).

They were playing Corrib in a last sixteen Junior Cup round, and even though it wasn’t a perfect performance we won well and now face Ballinasloe in the quarter-final this Sunday.

The good thing was that the severe weather of the earlier part of the week had disappeared and the roads were passable and all our pitches were playable.

Actually, getting away from the sport for a minute, one of the gripes a lot of us had out our way was that the very treacherous hill outside my house wasn’t treated at any time last week. Several times I saw cars fail to get up the hill, while I also know of a load of people who failed to take the turn coming down the hill to Donamon, and had to keep going straight on down to Bernadette Kearney’s old shop.

Now I know the Councils can’t grit every place, but for years everyone knows that this particular hill is a nightmare in frost, and surely such places should get priority treatment. Hopefully the next time we get orange or red

frost alerts for Roscommon the powers that be will send the gritter out to Crosswell.

Anyway, having got my rugby fix earlier in the day, as a long-suffering Manchester United supporter the recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool gave us all a bit of a lift and so after getting home from Creggs, I tuned into Utd versus Arsenal in the FA Cup.

Once again, for the second week in a row, the much-maligned players produced a performance of grit and determination to get a great result against the London club. After going down to 10 men with half an hour left they dug deep and got through the remaining period plus another half hour of extra-time to win the tie on penalties.

Now life has been so terrible for all of us reds for so many years that we are well aware we have seen some promising signs before, but at last this team appears to have rediscovered what it is to play for Manchester United and are at least putting in some effort.

My late wife Carol used to deplore the way the United players showed so little heart and commitment in earning their massive wages, but if she were still here, I think she might finally have seen proper effort and work ethic from these extremely wealthy players. We’ll see what follows on from this but for the first time in a long time there may be hope.

Where there’s smoke, there’s warmth…

Our columnist Frank Brandon on the security of being able to heat your home ‘by fireplace’ given recent power outages, revisiting the music of superstar country band The Highwaymen, enjoying Creggs RFC’s latest win, an upturn in the fortunes of Manchester United… and the world of scratch cards and lotto luck!

The house I live in is more than 40 years old. There is no doubt that if I was to build it now it would be very different. The four bedrooms should really be only three – as they are too small – the separate kitchen and dining room should have been all one, the sitting room is sort of away from the kitchen, and the back kitchen is also a bit on the small side. However, I am also aware that if I was selling it, which I am not, I would be selling a fourbedroomed detached two-storey house, with mature gardens on an idyllic site with unrivalled views of the surrounding countryside adjacent to the parish church and less than a mile from the thriving village of Creggs. It is convenient to the towns of Roscommon, Glenamaddy and Ballygar, all of which have top class second level schools, while the national school in Creggs is renowned as one of the best and most progressive in the entire country.

Actually, it now sounds so good I’d nearly buy it myself!

It all depends on how you would look at it. When you compare my house to the fantastic modern buildings that are being built nowadays, you would have to admit that they are vastly superior to look at, and yet as I drove around the area today, the thought crossed my mind that I wouldn’t swap mine for any of them. And the reason is very simple.

As the country struggles under the present arctic spell (as I write), and as temperatures are promised to go down to minus 9 degrees (at time of writing), I wondered how people who live in these modern chimney-less houses would heat their homes if the electricity was to go. I’m sure they all have underfloor heating and all kinds of gadgets that didn’t exist in my time, but as I walk into my 1980’s building I have fires in three rooms that I can light regardless of whether we are out of either water or electricity. All I have to do is make sure I have enough firewood to get me through this very cold spell.

Now I know it’s all about the environment and Europe tells us we can’t build houses with chimneys any more, but apparently there are areas where people have had no water or electricity for days now. What would they give to be able to light a fire and relax in front of it? Even if they couldn’t watch TV, at least they would be warm.

Anyway, I am now about to put my feet up, thankful that we still have electricity but safe in the knowledge that if it is to go, my chimneys are the key to keeping me nice and warm.

And finally…

It’s hard to believe that the first scratch cards in the Irish Lotto were sold in March 1987, while the weekly lotto draw started a year later in April 1988. Since then I would shudder to think how much money I have spent on buying scratch cards, doing the Lotto (now twice a week) and the EuroMillions, also twice a week. It must run into many thousands of euro.

Many is the time I said to myself I would give it up. Unfortunately, I do the same numbers every draw since it started and so I simply can’t stop doing those numbers because they would surely come up as soon as I did (cease to play).

However, over there in Connecticut a lucky lottery player proved that it is possible to beat the odds when he or she won on two scratch cards in the same store in the space of four days. On day one, they won $200,000. Four days later they won $750,000 – the odds on doing this apparently being one trillion to one.

And so I am encouraged to keep going. Despite never having had any decent win in almost 40 years, just maybe I too can beat the odds and get myself a big win. If I do, the first thing I’ll do is tell you all!

Action from Creggs v Corrib RFC in the BOI Connacht Junior Cup last weekend. Creggs’ Brian Diffley gets past Eric Flynn of Corrib RFC and charges towards the line. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Late Sr Christina Dufﬁcy was dynamic, talented and caring

 MIKE LENNON

Sr Christina Dufﬁcy, who died on December 14th last in the Mater Hospital, is remembered as being very talented with a wonderful personality who gave great leadership and service wherever she served. Her joyous and caring disposition was expressed in self-giving and dedicated commitment to her calling as a Mercy nun. She was blessed with beautiful qualities that she shared so generously with others right up to the end of her life, a life that had many brushes with death and required pioneering medical intervention to preserve it.

Christina was born on the 17th of December 1937 to Richard and Sarah (née Lennon) Dufﬁcy of Clooneigh, Tulsk. She was educated in Tulsk National School and the Convent of Mercy Secondary School in Roscommon.

Following in the footsteps of her older sister Alicia (Sr Richard), she was received into the Mercy Order in Sligo by Bishop Vincent Hanly in July 1957 along with her neighbour, Josephine Breslin (Sr Stephanie). She took the religious name of Sr Mary Bernadine but changed it soon after to simply Sr Christina.

No stranger to the local dances and carnivals before entering the convent, her ﬂair for music was recognised with a course at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, after which she went on to teach music in Athlone for three years. In a career change, Christina spent three years in Belfast studying nursing before being assigned to St John’s Hospital, Sligo where she nursed for four years. She next went to Drogheda on a two-year midwifery course.

In September 1972, Sr Christina joined the staff of the Sacred Heart Home in Roscommon which at the time had 250 patients. She was appointed matron of the Home in 1974. As the chaplain to the Home at the time, the celebrant of her funeral Mass, Fr Eugene McLoughlin said, “It was long before the Fair Deal was ever mentioned, but they got a very fair deal in the love and care they received from Sr Christina and her staff”. She developed cardiac problems in the mid-1980s and underwent heart bypass surgery in 1987. However, this was only a temporary solution, and she was put on a heart transplant waiting list in September 1990.

The tragic death of an 18-year-old girl from Kilmacthomas, Co Waterford in a

horse-riding accident in January 1992 and the donation of her organs for transplant provided the heart Christina was waiting for. The eight-hour operation was performed by the famed surgeon, Maurice Neligan in the Mater Hospital, Dublin. Recovery was slow and she was given ﬁve years to live. That timeline did not stop Christina getting on with things and, as we now know, her new heart allowed her to lead an active and fruitful life over the following 32 years.

Fr McLoughlin remembers Christina telling him that meeting the mother of her young donor was the most emotional moment of her post-transplant recovery. She requested that her surgeon and donor be especially remembered at her funeral Mass.

Just six months after her transplant, Christina was cleared physically to participate in the European Transplant Games in Enschede, Holland. She won a gold medal in the ﬁvekilometre walk and secured a silver medal in the golf tournament where she was the only female among nineteen men. Her caddy was her sister Alicia (Sr Richard) who, unfamiliar with golf jargon, asked the following day what a ‘dogleg’ was. In an interview with the Roscommon Champion, Christina said that medals never entered into it; “the message is that there is life after a transplant”.

After leaving the Sacred Heart Home, Christina studied pastoral care at the Mater Dei Institute in Dublin, which led to a spell in Breeogue as a pastoral assistant with responsibility for the pastoral care of the sick in the Elphin diocese nursing homes. Her

next assignment was as part of the Mercy Order leadership team for three years in Ballinasloe.

From her base at McAuley House, Roscommon, she took up her last appointment in 2002 as a pastoral assistant in the parish of Athleague & Fuerty. Over the following 20 years, Christina was involved in visiting the sick, preparing children for the sacraments, organising youth and adult choirs and serving on the Boards of Management of the local schools.

The former parish priest, Fr McLoughlin vouched for the great service she gave and how she endeared herself to the parishioners. She acted as organist and director of the Strokestown Church choir for some years, and also used her musical talent to entertain at old folks’ parties and functions to raise money for good causes.

Just three days short of her 87th birthday, Sr Christina’s heart ﬁnally gave way to the malign cancer that she bore with bravery and dignity while carrying on as normal up to the end. She now joins her parents, Richard and Sarah, her baby brother Michael, her brother Jerome and her sister in religion, Alicia who predeceased her by eleven months. She is survived by her brothers Richie and MJ (both in Limerick), her sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, grand-nieces and a large circle of cousins and friends. She will be especially missed by the Mercy sisters in McAuley House and throughout the order’s Western Province.

Sr Christina’s funeral Mass was celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon by her lifelong friend, Fr Eugene McLoughlin along with concelebrants Fr Kevin Fallon, Fr Raul Cino, Fr Joe Fitzgerald, Fr Michael Breslin, Monsignor Gerard Dolan, Fr Michael O’Brien, Fr Francis Glennon, Fr Vincent Brennan SMA, Fr Francis Beirne, Fr JJ Gannon and Fr George Agger SVD. Her Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11.30 on Sunday next, January 19th.

The ﬁnal words Sr Christina left to be spoken at her funeral were written by Seamus Heaney and aptly apply to her life: “Here on earth my labours were stepping-stones to upper air; lives that suffer and come right are backlit by immortal light”.

The late Sr Christina Du cy (on right) pictured with her sister, Alicia, known as Sr Richard, who died a year ago (RIP).

Roscommon car registrations decline slightly as electric vehicle sales dip nationally

New car registrations in Roscommon fell slightly in 2024, with 1,124 vehicles registered compared to 1,141 in 2023, representing a 1.5% decrease. The county also saw a drop in new electric vehicle (EV) registrations, with 88 registered in 2024 compared to 123 the previous year, a decline of 28.5%.

In Westmeath, new car registrations increased by 2.5% to 1,698, while new EV registrations dropped by 28.6% to 197. Leitrim saw a modest increase in overall registrations, up 8.5% to 487, though EV registrations dropped significantly, from 58 in 2023 to just 32 in 2024 (-44.8%). Meanwhile, Galway recorded 4,708 new car registrations, a 2.3% decline, with EV sales falling by 39% to 506.

National trends Nationally, 121,195 new cars were registered in 2024, a 1% decrease from 2023. Electric vehicle registrations fell sharply by 23.6% to 17,459. Despite this decline, EVs accounted for 14.4% of the market, with petrol remaining the most popular engine type at 30.3%.

Used car imports surged by 21.4%, reaching 61,583, while Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) registrations rose by 7% and Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HGV) registrations increased by 8%. The Hyun-

dai Tucson was Ireland’s top-selling car model for the year, with Toyota leading the brand rankings.

SIMI Director General Brian Cooke commented:

“While EV sales declined overall, there were signs of recovery towards the end of 2024, and we anticipate growth in 2025. The start of the new registration period is an optimistic time for the motor industry, with strong incentives and offers available to customers”.

The hatchback remained Ireland’s top body type, and grey continued its reign as the most popular car colour for the ninth consecutive year.

Proactive vehicle maintenance is a year-round responsibility

NCT ‘is not a diagnostic tool’

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has called on vehicle owners to embrace yearround responsibility for maintaining their cars, rather than relying on the National Car Test (NCT) to identify faults.

Customer satisfaction surveys have continuously highlighted the disappointing culture of vehicle owners using the NCT as a diagnostic tool, contributing to inefficiencies in the system and increasing risks to road safety.

KENNY

NCT: A roadworthiness test, not a diagnostic service

The NCT is designed to ensure vehicles on the road are roadworthy and safe at a point in time when the test is undertaken. However, many vehicle owners are presenting their cars for testing without addressing known maintenance issues. The service tested over 1.7 million vehicles in 2024 –an increase of 144,000 vehicles compared to 2023. To ensure that the growing demand is met, it is important that well maintained vehicles are presented for testing.

“Maintaining your vehicle is a yearround responsibility. We use our vehicles for work and to transport our families, so ensuring our vehicles are maintained to a high standard should be a year-round focus not something to focus on only before your NCT,” said Brendan Walsh, Chief Operations Officer with the RSA.

“Regular upkeep ensures your car is safe, roadworthy, and operating efficiently at all times. Proactively addressing known

Michelin

introduces new primary

5 car tyre

Michelin has announced the introduction of its new Primacy 5 car and SUV tyre designed for improved lifespan, rolling resistance, comfort and noise reduction.

Suitable for combustion engine, hybrid and electric vehicles, the Primacy 5 is said by the French manufacturer to offer an increased lifespan of 18% when compared to its predecessor, Primacy 4+, equating to an approximate 7,000 km worth of additional driving.

issues before your test improves your chances of passing and helps the NCT system operate more efficiently, freeing up capacity for others”.

Increase in ‘Fail Dangerous’ results: A cause for concern

In 2024, 7.4% of vehicles received a ‘Fail Dangerous’ result following the NCT, up from 6.9% in 2023. This concerning increase poses a direct and immediate risk to road safety. It is an offence to drive a vehicle with dangerous defects on public roads.

Tyres are the leading cause of ‘Fail Dangerous’ results, often due to tread depths below the legal limit of 1.6mm. Other significant causes include issues with the chassis/underbody and brake lines/hoses. The RSA reminds vehicle owners of the critical importance of regularly checking and maintaining these components to avoid serious safety risks.

What happens when a vehicle receives a ‘Fail Dangerous’ test result?

Vehicles that receive a ‘Fail Dangerous’ result are subject to the following actions:

A ‘Failed Dangerous’ sticker is affixed to the vehicle, with legal information provided on the reverse.

Vehicle owners are advised verbally and in writing not to drive the vehicle until the defects are repaired.

The vehicle’s details are shared with the National Vehicle and Driver File (NDVF) and the Gardaí, who have direct access to this information for enforcement purposes.

Other improvements include enhanced braking performance by 4% on wet surfaces when new, 5% less rolling resistance, 10% increase in groove rate, and a 6% reduction in environmental impact, according to the tyre life cycle assessment (LCA).

Available now in Europe in 64 sizes, this will increase to 149 dimensions by mid-2026.

The Best Loan Interest Rate on the Market!

As we kick off the New Year, many of us are looking to start fresh and upgrade our car. Whether you’re in the market for a reliable starter car, upgrading to a spacious family car, or treating yourself to something a bit more luxurious, having the right ﬁnancing options is crucial. At Roscommon Credit Union, we understand that, and we’re proud to present our exclusive car loan promotion with a fantastic interest rate of just 5.9%.

But don’t wait—this limited-time offer runs ONLY until the end of February.

Why Choose Roscommon Credit Union?

Ownership from Day One

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Build Equity with Every Payment

As you pay off your loan, you’re simultaneously building equity in your vehicle. This can help your ﬁnancial standing if you decide to sell the car down the line or even serve as collateral for future loans.

Fixed Payments for Easy Budgeting

Your monthly payments won’t ﬂuctuate so you’ll know exactly what to expect each month, allowing for straightforward budgeting and peace of mind.

Streamlined Application Process

Getting your loan is as easy as visiting our website and sending an enquiry. Alternatively you can apply through our mobile app, calling us, or stopping by one of our branches. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

The Smart Choice: Credit Union Car Loan vs. Car Finance

When you choose a car loan from Roscommon Credit Union over Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or Hire Purchase (HP), you’re opting

for more freedom and autonomy:

• No Mileage Limits: Drive as much as you need without restrictions.

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When considering a new car, it’s important to compare different lenders, to look at the total cost of the loan including interest and consider how the monthly payments fit into your budget. Also, ensure you understand the terms regarding early repayment or refinancing if your financial situation changes. We have done the comparison for you, and our current limited-time interest rate beats national banks, financial institutions, fintechs, other credit unions, and all other car finance options on the market.

Based off information retrieved from source on 10/01/2025

You won’t see a better offer anywhere else!

How to Apply for Your Loan

• Call: 090 66 26657

• Email: loans@roscommoncu.ie

• Website: www.roscommoncu.ie

• Download the ‘Roscommon Credit Union’ app in your App Store

• OR visit us in branch (Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Strokestown, Elphin)

If you’re short on time but would like to enquire, scan this QR code to get in touch

What do I need to apply?

If loan amount is between €3,000 and €20,000, you will need to provide 2x payslips and 3 months bank statements.

If loan amount is over €20,000, you will need to provide 3x payslips and 6 months bank statements.

If you’re self-employed, you will need to provide a recent set of audited accounts. Below are some examples of how loan repayments would work out at this current promotional interest rate. Use our loan calculator at www.roscommoncu.ie to see what repayments would ﬁt into your budget.

Figures correct as of 10/01/2025

Once you have submitted your application and provided paperwork, our team will shortly be in touch to guide you through the next steps.

Ready to Hit the Road?

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Make 2025 the year you take control of your nances and drive towards your goals! Roscommon Credit Union – you’re trusted ﬁnancial partner.

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This current promotional rate beats national banks, financial institutions, fintechs, other

If you’re not a member yet, now’s the perfect time to join. Just bring your

The quest for justice

Special report

PAUL HEALY

Gentle giant

Reynolds’ pub, invitingly positioned across the bridge, has long been a landmark premises on the edge of Rooskey village. For a long time, it was ‘The Widow’s’, so-called when Peter Reynolds’ late mother, Elizabeth, presided there (from 1961 into the late 1980s). Nowadays, for decades by now, Peter and Marian and their family run the bar. Reynolds’ – like the village’s other pubs – takes us through prosperous times, recessions, life, death and everything in between.

I’d occasionally meet Liam Farrell there. He only ever seemed to have a couple of pints, not being a big drinker at all. The bar counter in Peter’s, as in most country pubs, tended to be the domain of men of a certain age. They were usually farmers, but not always. Then again, even those who weren’t farmers probably dabbled a bit in the land.

At different times of year, there was an influx of English anglers. They loved the village, marvelling at the atmosphere in Reynolds’ bar. In summertime, tourists from various countries in mainland Europe would call in, taking a break from spending the evening on one of the many cruisers berthed beside Rooskey bridge.

On many nights, the bar counter would be the jurisdiction, at least for an hour or so, of five or six locals, usually men. Their focus almost always seemed to be on the past, on happy memories, on stories worth retelling, yarns and characters recalled.

Liam Farrell was a hard worker all his life… on his farm, and in Hanley’s factory, where he was very popular. An hour in the pub was all about social interaction for him. He and my late father were friendly. Very friendly in fact; as the 21st century took hold, they became elder statesmen of the village. When I was in their company, what I noticed about Liam – what everyone noticed – was how he carried himself, how he conducted himself. He was always, without fail, a dapper dresser. He was unfailingly polite. He had a great smile. He was courteous, humble, easygoing, by nature unruffled.

I am pretty sure I never heard him swear even once. He just didn’t do it. This trait seemed to go against logic. A big, handsome, distinguished man, a man of the land, he just didn’t swear… or say a bad word about anybody.

This is how he was. It’s why everyone in Rooskey thought ‘Gentle giant’ and ‘One of nature’s gentlemen’ when Liam Farrell appeared in a room, or if his name came up.

Last Sunday

The people of Rooskey were there for the Farrell family last Sunday. It was an unusual occasion, draped in deep sadness, but with space for hope to peer through.

For all the changes in the village over recent decades – cultural, imagined, actual – Rooskey remains a closeknit village. This is a beautiful part of the country. It’s my own neck of the

woods. I grew up there. I think of it as being ‘Roscommon’, but Leitrim quite rightly has a claim too, at least to an extent.

The Farrell residence is at Aughamore, on the Longford Road, across the bridge, up from those charming adjoining pubs, Reynolds’ and The Weir Lodge.

Last Sunday, a big crowd gathered. The people were there to show solidarity with the Farrell family, five years (to the day) on from their father’s mysterious death.

Yes, Consultant Pathologist Professor Paul Hartel concluded some time ago that Liam Farrell’s death in January 2020 was as a result of a heart attack. But questions that persisted for the family then have now morphed into a conviction that something untoward, violent and criminal happened the night their father died. It feels as though there are now more unanswered questions

than ever. So much so that the Garda Commissioner recently bowed to pressure and agreed to instigate a review into the original Garda investigation.

Outside the wall of the garden of the home in which he grew up, Brendan Farrell welcomed the family’s neighbours, friends, and the significant media presence. He called on his brother, Peter, to address the attendance. Moments later, Peter unveiled a plaque commemorating their late Dad, which also serves as a ‘prompter’ for anyone with information to contact the Gardaí.

Chatting to locals, I quickly gauged the mood of the community. They had listened in respectful silence as Fr Seamus O’Rourke, then Brendan Farrell, then Peter, spoke. Now, the formalities over, people broke into small groups, offering support to the Farrell family, chatting too about what brought us together.

It was easy to gauge the mood of

locals on Sunday. Every single person I spoke to expressed concern over those unanswered questions. MEP Ciaran Mullooly, Deputy Martin Kenny, Senator Eugene Murphy and Cllr Sean McGowan were amongst the prominent figures present. There was a real sense of a community at one with a family that’s hurting. A clear sense of a community that’s uneasy, at very best. People believe that the death of Liam Farrell is suspicious, that he may well have been attacked on the night he died. That his death must be fully investigated again. That his family, and his community, need answers. And justice.

What we know

On Saturday night, 11th of January 2020, Liam Farrell followed his usual weekend routine. The 87-year-old farmer, who lived on his own a few hundred yards up the road, set off for Reynolds’ pub. It’s a walk that took him five or

six minutes. It was a familiar walk for Liam, a widower since the death of his wife, Maureen.

Publican Peter Reynolds recalls that Liam was in his usual good form that night. After a while – again following routine – Liam moved next door to The Weir Lodge where again he was said to be in good spirits.

He left The Weir Lodge at around ten past midnight, waved at a local taxi driver, then began walking towards his home, where his beloved dog (Marley) was waiting. Mystery surrounds what happened next. Approximately 15 hours later, at 3.30 pm on the Sunday, Liam’s daughter, Ann, called to check on her Dad. She found him slumped on the ground outside the back door of the house. His shoes and socks were missing. He was “covered in blood”. He had bruises on his body. His watch was missing. This appeared to have all the hallmarks of an assault, an attempted

Last Sunday’s unveiling of a plaque in memory of the late Liam Farrell was attended by a large crowd of people. An appeal was issued for anyone with information concerning the circumstances of Liam Farrell’s death to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Photos: Michael Finan

for Liam Farrell

burglary perhaps. Liam’s family now claim that he was beaten and tied up in his hayshed, before being dragged to the back of the house.

When Gardaí were called, they declared the site a crime scene. Liam Farrell could not be revived. His body was taken to Sligo Hospital for a postmortem.

His family were distraught, the community shocked. The popular local man was laid to rest the following Thursday in Cloonmorris Cemetery, after Funeral Mass in St Michael’s Church in Bornacoola.

A Garda investigation into the circumstances of his death resulted in a file being submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. But no prosecution was recommended.

Questions, opinions

It’s been a horrendous ordeal for the family. Liam’s son, Brendan, has

led a campaign for the justice they believe has been denied. Five years have passed. Five years, both long and short. The unanswered questions loom large.

Anne Vaughan, of The Weir Lodge, noted that an unfamiliar man was seen speaking to Mr Farrell in the pub on the night he died. Did that person approach the farmer after he left the pub? Why were Mr Farrell’s shoes and socks removed? Why was his watch missing? How did the bruising happen?

Brendan Farrell has consistently expressed a belief that his father was attacked.

Last September, an inquest into Liam Farrell’s death was held at Carrick-onShannon Coroner’s Court. Professor Hartel, who previously concluded that the Rooskey man had died due to a heart attack, now says if he’d known that Mr Farrell had been discovered under suspicious circumstances or that a crime

scene had been established, he would have declined to perform the autopsy, as such cases require a forensic pathologist.

Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan, on reviewing Professor Hartel’s report, outlined two possible scenarios: Mr Farrell either suffered a heart attack, fell, and sustained injuries in the process, or another party was involved, triggering a stress-induced heart attack. According to Dr Mulligan, the injuries incurred were consistent with both possibilities.

Dr Mulligan stated that the involvement of another person could not be ruled out entirely.

Professor Jack Crane, former State Pathologist for Northern Ireland (who was hired by the Farrell family), suggested that Mr Farrell’s injuries were consistent with an assault. His view was that Mr Farrell had likely been confronted by an intruder

coldest of winter conditions before finally passing away some 15 hours later”.

Peter Farrell says there is photographic evidence to back up these assertions. (Blood was discovered in the hayshed last September by a private forensics team which was engaged by the family).

There is a dramatic further claim on the plaque: “We believe our father was betrayed by persons close to him and continues to be by the deafening silence of those who know the truth”.

The direct language begs the question: Are there people in the locality who have information that should be immediately conveyed to An Garda Síochána?

What now?

Following the inquest in September, and with pressure mounting, the Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris, directed a senior officer of An Garda Síochána to conduct a peer review of the original investigation. That officer has already engaged with the family, and listened to their views. Brendan Farrell says that the review now being carried out has the scope to follow any new leads that might arise.

The family believes that there are persons in the community who could provide such vital leads. They talk of previously volunteered information having (allegedly) been retracted, hinting at silence where there should be sharing. They believe their father was viciously assaulted, and are appealing for people to help ease their pain.

Last Sunday, both Brendan and Peter Farrell appealed to anyone with information concerning their father’s death to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

Goodness

There was an air of decency about this man that was striking… an air of family values, of goodness, a quiet charisma too. A daily Mass-goer, he was a humble man of great faith.

Last Sunday, Eoghan Young-Murphy from Shannonside Radio asked locals for their memories of Liam Farrell. They spoke of a person of stature, of a “lovely, lovely man”, and “a great neighbour”.

outside his home, struck in the face, and (then) attempted to make his way back inside. He described an eye injury sustained by Mr Farrell as being typical of blunt force trauma.

The inquest into Liam Farrell’s death recorded an ‘open verdict’, which can be taken to mean that the evidence did not fully or clearly explain the cause and circumstances of death.

‘Betrayed’

At the plaque unveiling last Sunday, new claims emerged. Unexpectedly, the text on the plaque states that Liam Farrell was “brutally attacked behind his house and in the hayshed”… “where he was tied with a rope and severely beaten”.

It adds: “He was subsequently dragged from the hayshed to the back door of the house…”

The text continues: “Our father lay dying outside the back door in the

You could feel the emotion in the voice of a former co-worker of Liam’s as he simply said: “He was a beautiful man”.

As a teenager over 40 years ago, and being friendly with the children, I was occasionally in the Farrell family home. As an adult, I often sat with my now late father at the bar counter, always noting and appreciating Liam Farrell’s warmth and humility as stories and laughter drifted across the barstools. The late Larry Lenihan, another great gent, was often in our company.

A hard-working family man, Liam Farrell was happy with a couple of drinks on such occasions, that and the social interaction they brought… the yarns and the laughter.

I remember the warmth and camaraderie between Liam and his neighbours and local characters, how comfortable they were together… how the gentle giant made people feel. Liam Farrell deserves justice.

Members of the Farrell family pictured at the unveiling last Sunday. An appeal was issued for anyone with information concerning the circumstances of Liam Farrell’s death to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Photos: Michael Finan

Local students shine at BT Young Scientist

< EMMETT CORCORAN

Local students delivered an exceptional performance at the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin, securing seven awards across various categories.

This year’s exhibition, held at the RDS, showcased Ireland’s brightest young minds, with 1,065 finalists presenting innovative projects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is one of the most prestigious events of its kind in Europe. It was established in 1965 by Dr Tony Scott and Fr Tom Burke and has been under the custodianship of BT Ireland for the past 25 years. The exhibition not only promotes STEM but also celebrates creativity and innovation among students aged 12 to 19.

Local top achievers

Among the local successes, Victoria Geraghty, a Leaving Certificate student from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, won first prize in the senior individual category of Health and Wellbeing for her project, ‘Analysing the relationship between first-year students’ perceived stress and social connectedness: a mixed-method approach’. Victoria’s work also earned her a special award from the Tackle Your Feelings initiative.

In the Intermediate Group Technology category, students AnnMarie Mullan (Ballybay), Bláithín Moran (Rahara), and Aideen Derwin from Our Lady’s Bower, Athlone, took first place for their project, ‘The Mould Busters’.

Meanwhile, Ryan Casey, a transition year student from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, claimed top honours in the Intermediate Individual Technology category for his AI-based project, ‘Apollo: A novel network anomaly detection system’.

Other Roscommon students recognised included Alicia Nic an Bháird and Julia Kuczwalska from Roscommon Community College, who won third place in the Intermediate Group category of Social and Behavioural Sciences for their project, ‘Words Without Walls: Exploring the emotional impact of language barriers on students’.

Additionally, Athénias Selve from Coláiste Chiaráin, earned third place in the junior Health and Wellbeing category for her project, ‘Grip Strength: A good biomarker’.

Liam Egan of Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar was third in the Intermediate Individual in Social & Behavioural Sciences for his project: ‘Carbon Cut: An Intelligent Way to Cut Your Carbon Footprint’.

Michaela Gillooly, a sixth year student from Glenamaddy Community College highlighted a very important topic as part of her project at the BT Young Scientist Competition. The leaving certificate student explored how the menstrual cycle impacts on sports performance – and how can we address the stigma around it?

Her project entitled: ‘Own your cycle, own your game’, featured highly last week and despite not taking an award at this year’s BTYSTE, Michaela’s project won a top award at the national SciFest competition, last year.

National winners

The overall prize was awarded to a team from Presentation Secondary School in Tralee, Co Kerry. Ciara (17), Saoirse (15), and Laoise (12) impressed judges with their project, ‘ACT (Aid Care Treat): App-timising emergency response’. Their app aims to streamline medical assistance during emergencies, integrating cutting-edge technology to improve outcomes.

As part of their win, the team will receive €7,500 and the prestigious BTYSTE perpetual trophy. Additionally, they will represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) in Riga, Latvia, in September, and attend the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, later this year. Minister for Education Norma Foley congratulated the winners: “This win is testament to their creativity, dedication and hard work. It has been a privilege to see the innovation and enthusiasm of all participants at this year’s exhibition”.

Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, praised the exhibition’s impact: “This year’s finalists have showcased boundless energy and ingenuity across topics such as AI, mental health, and sustainability. BT is proud to have played a role in evolving this globally renowned exhibition”. Local politicians including Dr Martin Daly TD (Fianna Fáil, Ballygar); Michael Fitzmaurice TD (Independent Ireland, Glinsk) and Ciaran Mullooly MEP (Independent Ireland, Ballyleague) attended this year’s awards and paid tribute to local students and projects on social media.

BT‘s legacy in STEM

The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition continues to be a vital platform for fostering interest in STEM subjects among Irish students. As local students celebrate their achievements, their innovative projects highlight the county’s commitment to education and forward-thinking solutions to societal challenges.

With the exhibition now in its 61st year, the event remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that Ireland’s young people are at the forefront of global scientific and technological progress.

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Dr Martin Daly TD, Lucy Coyle, Niamh Hoey, Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD and Caitlin Kelly (Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin: Ciaran Mullooly MEP with Ronan Lyons (Lanesborough Community College).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Dr Martin Daly TD with Caoimhe Molloy and Megan Crehan (Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Moya, Eleanor and Julia from Elphin Community College with Michael Fitzmaurice TD.

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Dr Martin Daly TD and Michaela Gillooly (Glenamaddy Community School).

Exhibition with seven awards secured

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Siobhan Beattie, Mattae Cox (Scoil Mhuire gan Smal Roscommon) and Dr Martin Daly TD.

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Let’s Talk Trash teacher and student team, Scoil Mhuire Strokestown, with Dr Martin Daly TD.

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD with pupils representing Coláiste Chiaráin Athlone along with Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice TD (Project title – Gumshields: Fit or miss?).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin: Ciaran Mullooly MEP with Michaela Gillooly (Glenamaddy Community School).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Riley Davis and Alanna Cleary (Roscommon Community College) with Ciaran Mullooly MEP.

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Alicia Nic an Bháird (Roscommon Community College), Michael Fitzmaurice TD and Julia Kuczwalska (Roscommon Community College).

At the 61st BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) in Dublin (left to right): Caoimhe Molloy (Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar), Michael Fitzmaurice TD, Megan Crehan (Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar).

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

‘Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival’ for Arts Centre

Jaw-dropping true story set on the Coral Sea, Australia

What begins as a thrilling adventure which soon spirals into a harrowing tale of survival against all odds comes to the Roscommon Arts Centre for one night only on Thursday, January 30th at 8 pm. Tickets are currently on sale at www. roscommonartscentre.ie.

Trawled is a one-man biographical drama set on a prawn trawler. 25 years after his life-changing experience, Wexford man Eoin Ryan brings the wild waves of the Coral Sea, Australia to life in this authentic story about surviving suicide.

Eoin Ryan’s narrative unfolds as he recounts his brush with destiny, delving deep into the heart of his battle for survival against the spectre of suicide. From his audacious bid to join the trawler crew to the harsh realities of life at sea – rife with backbreaking toil, rugged sailors, and the ever-present threat of danger – Ryan’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Trawled was given a five-star review by acclaimed website Theatre Thoughts, being described as follows: ‘Set against the meticulously crafted backdrop of a realistic stage, Trawled is a sixty-minute tour de force of storytelling that unfolds with the cinematic intensity of a blockbuster film. ‘Trawled – When Adventure becomes Survival’ is a story of epic proportions. And it’s true’.

Written, produced, and acted by Eoin Ryan, Trawled was first published as a book in 2019. In 2022 Eoin performed the story as a TEDx talk. Eoin’s motivation for going on stage and touring is to share the important universal message – “to ask for help”.

“Having never done anything in theatre before

Evening of songs and stories with Sandy and Marc

2023, I still felt compelled to bring this play and message to life” he said.

Trawled is a raw distillation of life where unforeseen circumstances, fragile relationships and shifting motivations create an unbearable

Sandy Kelly will perform with special guest Marc Roberts, in the Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen, Co Sligo (F56TF88), at 8 pm on Thursday, February 13th. Together with Sandy’s live band, the show is set to deliver a very special, intimate evening of new songs, old songs and life stories.

In October 2023, Sandy Kelly released her self-penned autobiography ‘In My Own Words’, published by The O’Brien Press. The deeply personal memoir dived into Sandy’s life growing up in a show business family and the trials she has endured continuing on the family tradition, which still sees her perform widely today.

On this concert tour, Sandy will give audiences a first-hand peek into some of her life’s stories, intertwined within a stunning set of all her classic hit songs and new songs from her recent album released in tandem with the autobiography.

Sandy’s very special guest, Marc Roberts, represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest and came a credible second with ‘Mysterious Woman’.

Tickets for the upcoming performance cost €30, and can be booked via 071 9182599 or colemanirishmusic.com.

‘perfect storm’ for the protagonist. Infused with the irrepressible spirit of Irish humour, where every twist and turn of fate brings them closer to the heart of his remarkable story.

Are you ready to come on board…?!

Rita Oates to unveil new collection at Showcase 2025 this weekend

Contemporary Irish artist Rita Oates will debut her latest collection at Showcase 2025, taking place at the RDS Dublin from January 19-21st.

Following her retirement from a 40-year career as director of ETL Craft & Giftware, Roscommon, Rita now dedicates herself fully to her first love: art.

Her collection includes designer scarves, framed prints, and greeting cards – all infused with her signature themes of positivity, connection, and the power of the human spirit.

Already featured in over 40 retail outlets nationwide, her work is celebrated for its heartfelt imagery and stories that inspire and uplift.

Each piece reflects Rita’s commitment to sustainability. Greeting cards are printed on FSC-certified paper with recycled envelopes, and her framed prints use ecofriendly materials. Designed and produced in Roscommon, her work highlights the best of Irish craftsmanship.

Visit Rita’s exhibit at Showcase 2025 to explore her art – a celebration of life and kindness.

Roscommon Arts Office announces Drama League of Ireland Scholarship

The Arts Office of Roscommon County Council has introduced a new support for amateur drama this year in the form of a scholarship to the popular Drama League of Ireland Residential Summer School which takes place at the University of Limerick from 19th to 26th of July 2025 (dates subject to confirmation by DLI).

The Drama League of Ireland (DLI) is the national representative body for amateur drama groups, societies and individuals.

Arts Officer Rhona McGrath outlines that “the Summer School facilitates the participant’s artistic development by furthering their knowledge and experience under the guidance of Irish and international theatre professionals. Places are highly sought after”.

There are many courses on offer at this year’s summer school for actors and directors, designed to cater for a wide variety of interests and levels of experience. The scholarship, valued at €600, will cover the cost of a residential place at the Summer School and includes tuition, accommodation and meals. Further information on the DLI is available at www.dli.ie.

Amateur members of drama societies in County Roscommon are invited to apply for this scholarship.

Guidelines and application forms are available for this Roscommon scholarship by emailing artsofficer@roscommoncoco.ie. The deadline for receipt of all applications is Friday, 7th of February at 5 pm.

€169,900

in funding for Roscommon Arts Centre

Roscommon Arts Centre is to receive €160,000 in funding in 2025 as part of a €68.5 spend by the Arts Council.

The news come as the Arts Council announces its first round of funding decisions for 2025, awarding 175 arts organisations, arts centres and arts studios grants amounting to €68.5 million. These grants will support arts organisations and centres to support and develop the arts nationwide. Roscommon Arts Centre will receive €169,900 in Arts Centre funding for 2025.

A total of 104 arts organisations received grants through the Strategically Funded programme, totalling €57.7 million. This funding programme is for organisations who make a significant impact to arts infrastructure in Ireland and have a national or regional reach. These organisations support a variety of art forms including music, literature, theatre, dance, film and much more.

41 arts centres were awarded a total of €10 million in this round of funding, which will support the running of each centre. In addition, 30 Art Studio Spaces will receive €746,000 in funding grants, providing a workspace for 1,117 Visual Artists in 15 counties.

Applications for funding to the Arts Council are continuing to rise with an unprecedented amount of grant support sought, now at 245% that of 2019 levels. The gap between the amount of funding offered and the amount requested is also at a record level.

In its 2025 awards, the Arts Council will prioritise support to the arts organisational infrastructure, while continuing its investment in individual artists, focusing on those not previously supported by the organisation in line with its inclusion objectives.

Women’s Little Christmas event in aid of charity

The recent Women’s Little Christmas Afternoon Tea event at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon was a great success.

Geraldine Grealy, Marketing Manager at the Abbey Hotel said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the generous sponsors and to all those who made the day a huge success, especially our staff and all those who worked so hard behind the scenes.

“It really was a day for women to gather and celebrate Nollaig Na mBan whilst also supporting a worthy charity who work tirelessly to support our community and families affected by cancer.

“A special thank you to Social & Personal Magazine for sponsoring our main prize of a luxury lifestyle hamper (which was won by local lady Anne Hardiman) plus their generous sponsorship of complimentary magazines for all attendees.

“Other sponsors of raffle prizes on the day were Radiant Beauty Kiltoom, Hairport in Knockcroghery, Clare Frances Photography, AYU Cosmetics, Steve Butler Construction, Bagira Nails & Beauty, Abbey Hotel, Roscommon and Fiona Newell Events. A special word of thanks to Roscommon Academy of Irish Dance and Aoife Ganley for providing the entertainment”.

A presentation of cheque proceeds will be published on the Abbey Hotel social media in the coming week.

Photos by Clare Frances Photography

Temporary flood relief measures approved for Lough Funshinagh

< EMMETT CORCORAN

The long-running crisis at Lough Funshinagh in County Roscommon has reached a significant turning point as An Bord Pleanála has granted planning approval for a temporary flood relief scheme.

The development, spearheaded by Roscommon County Council, involves pumping excess water from the turlough to the Cross River in Carrick townland, offering a much-needed reprieve to a community besieged by flooding for nearly a decade.

This interim measure, expected to be in place for up to 24 months, aims to stabilise water levels and protect the surrounding homes,

farmland, and infrastructure. The decision has been widely welcomed by residents, public representatives, and advocacy groups after years of mounting frustration and damage caused by increasingly severe flooding.

Background: years of flooding and delays

Flooding at Lough Funshinagh has been a growing problem since 2016, with homes and farmland repeatedly submerged. A 2021 attempt by Roscommon County Council to install a flood-relief pipe was halted after Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) successfully challenged the project in court, citing non-compliance with EU

environmental regulations.

Since then the crisis has deepened, with storms such as Storm Kathleen in 2024 leaving vast areas of land underwater and cutting off families and farms.

The situation has also highlighted broader concerns about the balance between environmental protections and urgently needed public infrastructure.

Temporary solution

The newly-approved scheme will pump water out of the turlough in a controlled manner, helping to manage flooding risks while a permanent pipeline to the River Shannon remains under development.

Speaking about the decision, Senator Aisling Dolan called it “an immense relief for families who have endured years of hardship,” adding that the controlled pumping measures “will protect homes, livelihoods, and farmland, while also addressing the environmental significance of the lake”.

Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW), Kieran O’Donnell, also welcomed the news, saying: “I know at first-hand what this decision will mean for the community. I, along with my OPW officials, will be engaging with Roscommon County Council to ensure delivery of the interim flood relief scheme as quickly as possible”.

FarmingPeople

The project, however, is still subject to environmental safeguards. Mark Keaveney of Roscommon County Council emphasised the council’s commitment to implementing the scheme “in accordance with the conditions of the decision” and highlighted ongoing work towards a permanent solution.

Environmental opposition

A notable aspect of the current plan has been the conditional support from FIE, a group that previously opposed flood-relief measures at Lough Funshinagh. FIE Director Tony Lowes acknowledged that this application addressed previous legal concerns, stating: “The basic issue with the previous efforts was the attempt to bypass European Environmental Directives – that appears to have been addressed by the new application”.

FIE has committed to closely monitoring the implementation phase to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, particularly concerning the Lough Funshinagh Special Area of Conservation.

Community pressures

While the approval is a significant step forward, local representatives have stressed the urgency of

implementing the measures before winter flooding takes hold.

Independent councillor Laurence Fallon, a long-time advocate for action at Lough Funshinagh, warned that any delay could lead to further devastation: “Without immediate action to lower the water levels, we’re looking at even more widespread damage this winter”.

Brendan Golden, chair of the Irish Farmers’ Association Flooding Project Team, also highlighted the toll on farmers and residents.

“This crisis has pushed people to breaking point,” he said, urging authorities to ensure the temporary measures are operational as soon as possible.

Looking ahead

In September, the temporary flood relief scheme was expected to be implemented within three weeks of final approval, according to Minister O’Donnell; however, it is largely accepted by local representatives that if a solution was implemented by April, it would be a significant achievement.

The community remains keenly aware that the longer-term solution – a permanent pipeline – is still years from completion. For now, the focus will be on executing

the interim measures efficiently and ensuring that families and businesses can begin to rebuild their lives.

Taoiseach Simon Harris, who has visited the area and witnessed the impact of the flooding, praised the collaborative efforts behind the approval. “Today’s news is very welcome,” he said on Friday, January 10th, continuing: “We will continue to work with the OPW and Roscommon County Council to ensure these works are done quickly”.

Roscommon-based MEP Ciaran

Mullooly has spoken publicly this week highlighting that while the temporary solution is welcome, sight must not be lost with respect to the long-term permanent solution: “The relevant authorities must keep the pressure on now to conclude the works”.

As Roscommon County Council begins the implementation phase, the people of Lough Funshinagh are cautiously optimistic. The hope is that this temporary solution will not only alleviate the immediate crisis but also pave the way for sustainable, long-term progress.

Roscommon farmer to feature on Ear to the Ground

Roscommon farmer Declan Miley is to feature on RTÉ’s Ear to the Ground today (Thursday, January 16th) at 7 pm, with the episode also set to be repeated on Sunday, January 19th, at 1.10 pm. The episode sets out to explore the topic of sheep dispersal, with the show depicting presenter Ella McSweeney’s visit to Roscommon Mart to speak to the local farmer. Declan Miley has

spent thirty years of his life breeding pedigree Charolais sheep, but family pressures mean he has taken the hard decision to sell his prize-winning flock. The episode will also explore tree farming, by focusing on Meath man Paddy Mangan, who saw the ash trees on his farm begin to die as a result of the fatal tree disease, Ash Dieback. Ear to the Ground is produced by indiepics for RTÉ.

Pictured are RTÉ Ear to the Ground presenters Stephen Robb, Ella McSweeney, and Darragh McCullough.

The scene at Lough Funshinagh last year after an unprecedented amount of rainfall.

Castlerea Mart held its rst sale of 2025 on Thursday last, January 9th. Numbers presented were small due to the recent cold snap and hazardous road conditions.

For those who braved the elements, an excellent clearance took place with trade and prices on par with pre-Christmas.

Sample prices

Bullocks: Lm 465kgs €1410 Hex 520kgs €1580 Lm 585kgs €1980 AA 580kgs €1930 AA 623kgs €1980.

Heifers: Lm 480kgs €1610 Ch 460kgs €1510

There were a big number of sheep on o er at Roscommon Mart’s weekly sale of hoggets and stag ewes on Wednesday, January 15th. Prices for hoggets made up to €232 while stag ewes topped out at €282. The next sheep sale takes place on Wednesday, January 22nd. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can

Ch 455kgs €1480 Lm 555kgs €1540 Hex 345kgs €950 Hex 390kgs €1060.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1550 to €1610.

Dry cows: Lm 645kgs €2040.

Weanling heifers: Ch 325kgs €1040 Ch 230kgs €810 Ch 205kgs €720 Ch 280kgs €810 AA 143kgs 520.

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

be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Hoggets, sample prices: 68kgs-€232-€3.41 per kg, 60kgs-€229- €3.82 per kg, 57kgs€230-€4.04 per kg, 52kgs-€215-€4.13 per kg, 49kgs-€210-€4.29 per kg, 47kgs- €192€4.09 per kg, and 44kgs-€172-€3.91 per kg. Cast ewes, sample prices: 92kgs- €282€3.07 per kg, 89.1kgs-€260-€2.92 per kg, 84.4kgs-€238-€2.82 per kg, 79.3kgs-€220€2.77 per kg, 73.5kgs- €194-€2.64 per kg, and 70.6kgs-€178- €2.52 per kg.

WHO EWE LOOKING AT?: Photographer Michael Finan took this beautiful photograph when he was out and about in County Roscommon earlier this week.

Pictured at Roscommon Mart Sheep Sale last Wednesday. Picture: Michael Finan.

€24.2m

paid to more than 7,000 forest owners –Hackett

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for forestry, Senator Pippa Hackett, has welcomed the issuing of annual taxfree forestry premium payments for 2025. The payments issued to forest owners who applied for their payments through the Department’s Online Services website: www. agfood.ie.

Annual forestry premiums totalling €24.2 million were paid in this January 2025 bulk payment run in respect of over 7,000 applications.

Minister Hackett said: “I very much welcome this signiﬁcant payment to forest owners. Over 19,500 farmers are already enjoying the beneﬁts that forestry brings to their farm enterprise. I would strongly encourage farmers who might be thinking about planting trees to speak to neighbours who have already done so, and to get in touch with a registered forester or a Teagasc Forestry adviser.

“The current Forestry Programme pays at the highest payment rates ever available to forest owners, and there is now an unprecedented range of planting options available: from small-scale native woodlands, to agroforestry, to continuous cover forestry, among many other forest types. There are valid afforestation licences currently available to plant more than 5,000 hectares and over 3,400 felling licences were approved in 2024, and I am conﬁdent that licensing ﬁgures will continue to improve throughout 2025”.

Forest owners who have not submitted their online applications so far, can still apply online for their forestry premiums through the Department’s Online Services website (www.agfood.ie).

New food business comes to Castlerea Enterprise Hub

Castlerea Enterprise Hub, supported by Roscommon County Council, is delighted to welcome its newest business to the town.

The board of An Chistin Food Hub have also expressed their delight at new business Nice Ice Cream taking space at the local Food Hub and have been working hard to help attract clients to the space.

Nice Ice Cream, a premium Artisan Ice Cream is a family-run business specialising in the production of 100% natural, artisan ice cream of exceptional quality.

Nice Ice Cream is committed to supporting the local economy by working with nearby producers to source high-quality, eco-friendly ingredients, including organic mint and other seasonal specialties, organic milk and cream.

Nice Ice Cream would like to acknowledge the support of Castlerea Enterprise Food Hub, An Chistin Food Hub, Roscommon County Council, and the Local Enterprise Ofﬁce in Roscommon for their invaluable support in providing a space to turn this dream into reality.

The product is the culmination of years of passion for using natural ingredients, artisan techniques, and uncompromising quality. Founded in 2019, the brand’s journey began in Ukraine, where co-founder Alexander Kuzminova, an ice cream enthusiast, struggled to ﬁnd a product that met his high standards.

Together with Juliya Kuzminova, an expert in production technology, they now bring their dream to life in Castlerea.

Head of Enterprise of Roscommon Local

Mullooly calls for clear deﬁnition of ‘fair income’ for farmers

Speaking at this week’s Agricultural Committee meeting in Brussels, MEP Ciaran Mullooly raised critical questions about the recommendations outlined in the draft of a report to be sent to the European Commission ahead of its 2026 agricultural budget.

The discussion focused on ensuring adequate funding for farmers and promoting the sustainability of the EU’s agricultural production system.

In his address, MEP Mullooly emphasised the need for clarity when discussing a ‘fair income’ for farmers in this draft report to be submitted to the Commission, urging policymakers to deﬁne this concept in practical terms.

“We need to be clear on what a fair budget means,” he stated. “If we don’t know what a fair income is, how can we aim to achieve it for family farms?”

Mullooly posed a series of pointed questions to the committee, asking:

- Is it the national average?

- Is it the EU industrial wage?

- Is it a rate per hour worked by the farmer?

- Does it take into consideration the appalling conditions our farmers sometimes work in?

He stressed that these questions must be addressed to ensure the future viability of the EU agricultural production system.

“I believe we need to set out a plan to ensure the future viability of the EU agricultural production system is worked out properly,” he added.

The Midlands-North-West MEP also voiced strong support for measures aimed at promoting generational renewal in the agricultural sector, highlighting that fair income levels are essential to achieving this goal.

“There is one certain and sure way to achieve this,” he remarked. “This is to have an income that justiﬁes the commitment, the dedication and the expertise that is required to meet the ever-increasing cost of food production”.

Pictured following con rmation of Nice Ice Cream’s location to the Castlerea Enterprise Hub were (l to r): Sean Mullarkey, Director of Finance, Roscommon County Council; Alexandar Kuzminova of Nice Ice Cream; Juliya Kuzminova of Nice Ice Cream; Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council; Benny O’Connell and Brian Stenson, Enterprise Castlerea.

Enterprise Ofﬁce (LEO) Louise Ward has warmly welcomed the arrival of Nice Ice Cream to Castlerea. “This is an exciting

development and further evidence of Castlerea Food Hub’s potential to attract new and exciting food industries to Castlerea”.

Remax Team

Earley: Stunning three-bedroom residence

Keith McLoughlin of RE/ MAX Team Earley is delighted to present to the market 21 Watervale, Rooskey, Co Roscommon, a truly stunning three-bedroomed semidetached home that exudes modern elegance and comfort. Meticulously renovated to an exceptional standard, this property features new windows and doors, upgraded radiators, beautifully refurbished bathrooms, and impeccable interior design throughout.

Nestled near the tranquil River Shannon and within walking distance of local amenities, it seamlessly combines a picturesque setting with unmatched convenience.

Inside, the home boasts a bright and welcoming hallway adorned with stylish panelling, coving, and new floor tiles, complete with under-stairs storage. The kitchen is a masterpiece of functionality and style, showcasing a new shaker-style design with floor-to-ceiling units, tiled floor-

ing, and French doors leading to the garden.

The sitting room offers a warm and inviting space, with a sleek wooden floor, vertical radiator, marble fireplace, and elegant

ceiling details. A chic downstairs WC, featuring brass fixtures, a heated towel rail, and eyecatching tile work, completes the ground floor.

Upstairs, the three bedrooms

are thoughtfully designed to maximise comfort. The master suite features wall panelling, sliding wardrobes, and a luxurious ensuite with premium fixtures, a large shower cubicle, and a raindrop shower.

The second double bedroom offers generous storage and new wooden flooring, while the single room is versatile enough for use as an office or study. The family bathroom is a standout, showcasing a herringbone-tiled feature wall, his-and-her sinks, a freestanding bath, and a chrome heated towel rail. BER C1.

Externally, the property includes off-street parking and a beautifully landscaped rear garden, offering a private outdoor haven.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon on 090 66 26579, call Keith on 086 0848590, email teamearley@remax.ie or log onto www. teamearley.ie

The livingroom at 21 Watervale, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

21 Watervale, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

21 Watervale, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon.

Tormeys announce Barra Flynn Memorial Scholarship 2024

Tormeys Solicitors LLP, one of the longest established and largest legal firms in the Midlands, were delighted to announce the winners of the Barra Flynn Memorial Scholarship 2024 following a presentation at their offices recently.

By way of brief history of the scholarship, Tormeys Solicitors provide an annual scholarship to Leaving Certificate students from the Athlone, Moate, Ferbane, Ballymahon, Roscommon, Ballinasloe and Tullamore school areas.

The fund is awarded to students that attain the highest Leaving Certificate points and whom have chosen to pursue a legal pathway at a third level institution.

This is the 32nd annual presentation of the scholarship and whilst there are now a number

of scholarships presented by corporate bodies in the Athlone area, Tormeys Solicitors are proud to have been the first to embrace this incentive to encourage young adults to study law.

The scholarship fund in total is valued at over €2,500, awarding prizes to first, second and third placed students. In 2000, to commemorate the Millennium, Tormeys Solicitors introduced the presentation of the perpetual trophy to the school with the highest culminative points for law students within that year. The winner of the 2024 school prize was the Athlone Community College.

For the first time in the scholarship’s history, we recognised joint first place winners with Aiveen Curley, formerly of Athlone Community College and now studying in

Trinity College Dublin and Brendan Murphy, also a former student of Athlone Community College, now studying in UCD, sharing this prestigious award.

Alexandra Kinahan, formerly our Our Lady’s Bower, Athlone and now studying in UCD, took the final prize.

Tormeys Solicitors would like to thank all the applicants who participated in the scholarship and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

On a separate note, Tormeys Solicitors were delighted to be awarded Employer of the Year at the recent Athlone Business Awards and we would like to thank all our past, present and future clients for their loyal and continued support and we look forward to many years of continued success.

Athlone/Castlerea Credit Union agree merger with St Jarlath’s

The members of Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union and St Jarlath’s Credit Union have agreed a merger of the two credit unions to create a stronger and more efficient credit union to serve the combined membership across the wider catchment area. The combined credit union will have assets of over €440 million and 80,000 members. Chair of the Board of Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union, Emma Sammon commented, “I am confident that the decision to join forces with St Jarlath’s Credit Union is the right one and will allow us to continue to provide an efficient and effective service to all our members.

“Experiences of mergers have shown that our members and our local communities’ benefit, as they can be part of a stronger, more efficient credit union which can provide enhanced loan and saving facilities across the local catchment area. St Jarlath’s Credit Union share our ethos and ambition to deliver modern financial services for members and this merger will provide a larger membership base for a stronger credit union which can better serve our combined membership”.

Chairperson of the Board of St Jarlath’s Credit Union, Peter Fallon said, “This combination is an extremely positive move for members of both of our credit unions. It makes perfect

sense not only from a financial and member service perspective but also an administrative one in the current regulatory environment”.

In a press statement, Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union said that members’ savings and loan accounts will be unaffected by the merger. Members in both credit unions will see no change in the day to day operations of the credit union.

The statement concluded: “The strategic merger is a welcome development for both credit unions who will now focus on working together to grow and meet the increasing demands of members for a wider range and reach of services in their local communities”.

‘Ireland West’ records highest ever numbers

2024 has proven to be the busiest year on record at Ireland West Airport. Passenger numbers increased by 2% to 834,000, surpassing the previous record of 817,000 passengers achieved in 2023.

The airport now serves 22 international destinations and is served by three of Europe’s major international airlines: Aer Lingus, Lauda Europe, and Ryanair.

Ryanair recorded its busiest ever year for passenger traffic at the airport, with record numbers using its services to the likes of Liverpool and London Luton. Aer Lingus also recorded its busiest ever year for passenger traffic at the airport, with its London Heathrow service going from strength to strength in 2024.

In 2024, the number of passengers travelling on services to and from the UK totalled 667,732, an increase of 1% compared to 2023. The number of passengers travelling on services to Mainland and Continental Europe hit a new high for the airport, with 165,500 passengers travelling to and from Alicante, Barcelona, Faro, Majorca, Malaga, Milan, Cologne, Lanzarote, and Tenerife, representing a 9% increase on 2023 figures.

The passenger growth forecast for 2025 looks positive following the announcement of a new inbound Tourism service from Groningen, Netherlands, which commences in June with leading Dutch Tour Operator BBI Travel.

In addition, Ryanair will increase capacity at the airport by approximately 10% in 2025, adding capacity to popular services to Alicante, Malaga, and Faro.

Commenting on the 2024 performance, Arthur French, Chairman of Ireland West Airport, said: “We are delighted to report a record year for passenger numbers at the airport, the second consecutive year of record passenger traffic. Demand for our routes and services from right across the region and from overseas continues to grow and this is reflected in achieving record passenger numbers in 2024”.

Work fatalities hit record low in 2024

Ireland recorded its lowest ever rate of work-related fatalities in 2024 according to provisional data published by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). The fatality rate per 100,000 workers has fallen from 2.7 to 1.2 in the ten-year period from 2015 to 2024, marking the fewest work-related deaths since the establishment of the Authority in 1989.

A total of 33 people lost their lives in work-related incidents in 2024, a reduction of almost a quarter on 2023 fatalities. The construction sector, in particular, saw a significant decline from 10 fatalities in 2023 to 5 in 2024, a decline of 50%, while the agriculture sector saw a decline from 20 fatalities in 2023 to 12 last year, a decline of 40%.

Pictured at the scholarship presentation is Lisa O’Kennedy, principal of Athlone Community College, accepting the perpetual trophy and prize money from Patrick Flynn, son of scholarship founder, Barra Flynn.

Pictured at the scholarship presentation are scholarship winners Aiveen Curley, Brendan Murphy and Alexandra Kinahan alongside Declan O’Flaherty, Senior Litigation Partner in Tormeys Solicitors and Patrick Flynn, son of scholarship founder, Barra Flynn.

Arthur French, Chairman, Ireland West Airport.

Classifieds

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

 ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor).

Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

CHIMNEY CLEANING COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Telephone: 087 2798704

Advertise with us to have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week!

Telephone: 086

Stephen Casey Construction

● General Building

● Extensions & Roo ng

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● Chimney CCTV Inspections ● Chimney Repair

Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

 FOR SALE: • 2008 Citroen Picasso, 7 seater, silver in colour, timing belt, water pump and new turbo tted. Clean car. Needs some small work done for NCT. • 2010 Citroen Picasso, 7 seater, silver in colour, timing belt and water pump tted some months ago. Mileage: 200,149. Good car, small work needed for NCT. Can be sold separately or both together. Tel 083 8828882.

TRAILERS

TRAILER SERVICING & REPAIRS

• Certi ed Arborists

• Tree Surgery

• Dangerous Tree Removal

• Wood Chipping

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie Kathleen’s Mobile

COUNSELLING

& HYPNOTHERAPY

Are you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

FENCING/GATES

For all your fencing needs.

● GLAS Fencing ● Grant Fencing

● Post Rail Tel: 087 2172281

 FOR SALE: S easoned hardwood logs. Tel. 086 8237630.s

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

Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

GARDENING

• Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member. Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459

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

Are you experiencing di culties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having di culties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you? Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on 085 2514394 email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Val Mulvhill, intend to make an application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for change of use from previous Medical Centre to residential use. The residence: Loughglynn Demense, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon F45 FW52. It is understood that the property was originally used as a doctor’s residence and has been vacant since 2004. Planning permission is sought for change of use only. No additional extensions or alterations are proposed.

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

Signed: Val Mulvhill.

Design Consultation

Planning Applications

New Build, Extend, Renovate

Bespoke Design

Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Michael Butler, apply for Outline Permission for bathroom, dining and kitchen extension to my cottage at Kilgarve, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed: Gerry Hynes MRIAI Architect, White Cottage, Doon, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon F42DF10 E. gerryhynes01@gmail.com Web. www.gerryhynesarchitect.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Thomas Treacy, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of small o ce unit, (area 30 sq metres), at Treacy Décor, Athlone Road, Roscommon.

Signed: Thomas Treacy.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd, on behalf of our client: Ronan Cooney, intend to apply for Permission for this site, located at: Laragh & Ross Td, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon F45 PA07. The Development (Permission) consists of:

• The construction of a single storey extension to the side of the property.

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

Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd (Agent) on behalf of Ronan Cooney.

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

CHAZEY PROPERTIES:

We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one o fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732

The local paper!

SITUATIONS

VACANT

SHOP/GENERAL ASSISTANT required for part-time position.

• 18/20 exible hours per week.

• Fluent English essential. Email replies to connaughtdrycleaners@gmail.com

 CARE ASSISTANT - PART TIME: Mon-Fri (1pm-5pm) and/or (8.30am-10am). Dromod, Co. Leitrim. Elderly male. To assist with mobility, personal care, meals, medication in a welcoming and well equipped home. Previous experience preferred. Valid drivers license necessary. Contact: 086 8043138 .

MAN AVAILABLE

 LABOURER AVAILABLE to do fencing, concreting foddering, tidying, cleaning drains and chopping rewood – any odd jobs. Also, repair works to stone walls. Tel. 087 9235745.

APPOINTMENTS

ROSCOMMON TOWN Are continually expanding and now require

Roscommon Town Are continually expanding and now require Handyman/Plasterer

Skimming and making good after the installation of windows and doors. Be able to work on own initiative and highly motivated. Might suit the candidate 3 or 5 days per week

To arrange your interview please contact

To arrange your interview please contact 090-6626753

090-6626753

Specialists in uPVC, Aluminium & Hardwood windows, Doors, Patio doors, Conservatories and Shop Fronts www.seandoylewindows.ie

• Premium for Sundays and Bank Holidays. • Free meals, tea and co ee. • Paid lunchbreaks.

• Pension Scheme facilitated.

• Cycle to work scheme available.

• Care Assistants will assist in the provision of care and work as part of a team to achieve required standards.

Experienced candidates invited to apply Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (071) 965 8667 Apply with cv & cover letter to be emailed to: o ce@shannonlodgenursinghome.ie or contact: 071 965 8667 Garda vetting and references will be required. We require the following:

require

Operatives

required to work in a Timber Manufacturing Facility in Ballyleague, Lanesboro 40 hours per week, 2pm nish on Fridays. Overtime available, no experience necessary but candidates need to be able to work on their own initative and as part of a team. Candidates need to be physically t as the role involves lifting and loading machines. Please forward CV by email to info@irishpallets.com or by post to Irish Pallet Systems, Ballyclare, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon. No call out to factory – post or email only please.

DOOLIN

Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Mobile: 086 8115928

Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

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

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PODIATRIST

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

HANNON

(née Cusack)

Breege St. Brendan’s, Ballygar, Co. Galway

Who passed away on the 23rd Jan 2024. (1st Anniversary)

We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. But all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your resting place we visit and put ﬂowers there with care.

But no one knows the heartache as we turn and leave you there.

Always remembered by her husband John; sons Michael, Seamus and Keith; daughter Linda; daughter-in-law Darina and grandchildren.

Breege’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday 25th January at 7.30 pm.

HENNIGAN

Anne (Nancy)

Castletanna, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Anne who passed away on 14th January 2015. Also remembering at this time her husband, Cornelius (Sonny), who passed away on 26th August 1976

I lost a mother with a heart of gold

How much I miss her can never be told She shared my troubles and helped me along

If I follow in her footsteps I will never go wrong.

Always remembered by her son Tommy Joe.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 19th January at 11am in St. Bridget’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

GATELY

Dara

Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon (13th Anniversary –24th January)

In loving memory a dear son

No special day is needed for us to think of you. You are always in our thoughts no matter what we do. You’re more than a precious memory from whom we had to part.

You are the light that burns within us in the centre of our hearts.

Always loved and remembered by his family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Fuerty Church on Sunday, 19th January at 11.30am.

REGAN

Ann

Liscoﬀey, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (20th Anniversary on the 21st January 2025)

Twenty years have quietly passed, yet your presence lingers near. So many moments you have missed, yet in our hearts, you’re ever dear. Through each triumph and each tear, your love still lights the way. We remember you with grateful hearts, missing you with each day. Though time and life have carried on, We hold your memory fast — forever part of all we are, and cherished to the last.

Missed always by James, sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and all your grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday, 18th January at 7pm.

MANNION

Martin

Toberroe, Glinsk Co. Galway. who passed away on 22nd January 2021. (4th Anniversary)

No morning dawns, no night returns but that we think of you. Those left behind are very good but none replaces you. Many a silent tear is shed when we are all alone. The one we love so very much, the one we call our own.

Loved and missed always by his wife Anne, daughters Christina & Bernadette, and son Damien, his mother Mary, his brothers, his sisters and extended family.

Martin’s Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday 19th of January 2025 in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk at 10.00 am.

COYLE

Niall

Correal, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon (15th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a loving brother, who passed away 28th of January 2010

If we could have a lifetime wish and one dream come true, we would pray to God with all our hearts just to see and talk to you. A thousand words won’t bring you back, we know because we’ve tried, and neither will a thousand tears we know because we’ve cried. You left behind our broken hearts and precious memories too, but we never wanted memories, we only wanted you.

Loved dearly and never forgotten and deeply missed by Irene, Fiona, Ena, Kieran, Noelle, Brian, Edel, Aine and Niamh, brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Tisrara on Sunday, 19th January at 11am.

TRIMBLE Harry

Cloonageeragh, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon

We, the family of the late Harry Trimble, who passed away on the 20th of January 2024 would like to thank most sincerely those who sympathised and supported us in our sad and sudden loss.

To all our neighbours, relatives and friends who called to our homes to o er their help and support, your kindness is very much appreciated.

To those who sent Mass Cards, Sympathy Cards, sent messages and to those who left online condolences on RIP.ie

We appreciate your kindness and are very grateful.

We deeply appreciate the large numbers who attended Smyth’s Funeral Home and the Mass of the Resurrection at Ballagh Church to sympathise with us and a special word of thanks to those who travelled to Cavan with us.

Our sincere thanks to Fr Daniel who celebrated Harry’s Funeral with kindness and compassion.

Thanks to Teresa Costello for the beautiful music and singing in the church.

A special word of thanks to Pat and Gillian of Smyth’s Funeral Directors, for your kindness, support and professionalism shown to us over the days of the funeral we are sincerely grateful.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our appreciation.

Harry’s First Year Anniversary Mass will take place on Saturday 18th January 2025 in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh at 7.30pm.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

HAMILL

Tom

Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Whose birthday occurs on 18th January 2025

A smile for everyone, a heart of gold, the very best this world could hold. Never selﬁsh always kind, these are the lovely memories you left behind.

Always remembered by your loving daughter, Kathleen, son-in-law John and grandsons David and John.

R.I.P. Grandad

DELANEY

Johnny

Drinane, Ballygar, Co. Galway (7th Anniversary) Who passed away on 30th January 2018

Just a prayer from the family who loved you, just a memory fond and true.

In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you.

Loved and sadly missed by his wife Ann and family.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 18th January at 7.30pm.

www.brianmuraystone.com

TANSEY

The family of the late Michael Tansey R.I.P., who died on the 14th of April 2024, wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who sympathised with and supported us on our very sad loss.

A sincere thank you to all who attended the Removal, Requiem Mass and Burial; to those who sent Mass Cards, Letters, Sympathy Cards, on-line condolences and made donations.

A special word of thanks to Fr. George Agger and Fr. Patrick Tansey for the beautiful Funeral Mass. Sincere thanks to the concelebrating Priests at the Mass and those who attended the Funeral Home – Fr. Pat Hogan, Fr. Vincent Twomey, Fr. Tom Kearney, Fr. Gerry Lanagan, Fr. Peter McHugh and Fr. Joe Delaney.

Sincere thanks to Fr. Pravin for visiting Michael at Home and for celebrating his Month’s Mind Mass. We o er our sincere thanks to Dr. Brendan Crosby and sta . Thank you to the Drs., Nurses and Sta at University Hospital Roscommon and to the Stroke Unit, University Hospital Galway for the wonderful care given to Michael.

Sincere thanks to the Public Health Team and to Donna Browne and all the Home Help Carers.

A special thank you to our wonderful neighbours, who took such great care in digging and preparing Michael’s nal resting place . Thank you to all at Smyth’s Funeral Undertakers, Roscommon, for your professionalism and kindness in managing the Funeral Arrangements.

A special thanks to Owen Kenny for the beautiful music and to Anne Corcoran and the Cloonycolgan Choir for singing at the Mass.

Sincere thanks to the Manager and sta at Glesson’s Restaurant for the lovely food they provided.

As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this Acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude to all who helped us at this di cult time.

The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass has been o ered for your intentions.

Michael Oran, Co. Roscommon

IN MEMORIAM NOTICE NEARY

Kathleen and Seán

Late of Clooncullane, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (2nd and 8th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Kathleen (nee Burke), who died on 21st January 2023 and Seán, who died on 2nd November 2016.

Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our hearts, you still live on.

A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for two special people in God’s care.

Always remembered and sadly missed by their family.

Anniversary Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Elphin on Sunday, 19th January 2025, at 11.30a.m.

MULLANEY

John and Mary Jo Rathconnor, Four Mile House (36th and 10th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear father John who died on the 14th October 1988 and our dear mother Mary Jo who died on the 19th January 2015

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. Sadly missed by their daughters, sons, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Four Mile House Church on Sunday, 19th January at 11am.

KENNY

Darragh

Late of Gort, Lecarrow (12th Anniversary) Died 15th January 2013

In loving memory of Darragh Kenny DARRAGH You left us quietly your thoughts unknown but left us memories we are proud to own. So treasure him Lord in Your garden of rest because here on Earth he was one of the best.

Sadly missed by Liam, Fidelma, Catriona, Sarah, Michael and Ciara. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 19th January at 11.30am.

TIERNAN Margaret

Late of Cartron, Kilrooskey (14th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Margaret, who passed away on 14th January 2011

No matter how life changes no matter what we do a special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

Always remembered by your loving daughter Kathleen and family. xxx

O’BRIEN Kathleen Milltown, Kiltoom, Athlone. (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Kathleen who passed away on the 21st January 2017

Sadly missed by Tom, Helen, children and grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.

R.I.P.

Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 19th January at 10am.

SHANAGHER

Teresa Tonlagee, Four Mile House, Roscommon formerly, Ballooney, Tulsk. Who died on the 15th of December 2024 (R.I.P.)

We, the family of the late Teresa Shanagher, wish to express our gratitude for the kindness and support shown to us by friends, neighbours, and the wider community during our recent sad loss of our beloved Mother.

A sincere thank you to all those who sent refreshments to the house, sent wreaths, Mass Cards, left condolences on RIP.ie and sent messages of support. Your words of comfort are very much appreciated. We extend our gratitude to those who attended our home, the Funeral Home and joined us for the Funeral Mass. Your presence and support meant more than words can express.

We want to thank Mam’s Doctor, Dr. Valerie Morris, her sta , and McGuinness’s Pharmacy who looked after Mam so well over the years.

To Emer, the Advanced Paramedic and Ambulance Crew who attended to Mam on the morning of her passing and to the medical sta in Portinuncla Hospital who looked after Mam so well during her nal hours.

To Mam’s Carers – Vanessa, Ana, Marna, Celina and Mary – we would like to thank you for the wonderful company and care you gave to Mam over the years.

To Pat and Gillian Smyth, Funeral Directors and John Smyth for their professionalism, kindness, attention to detail and support, thank you.

To the grave digger, Peter, thank you for preparing Mam’s nal resting place.

Thanks to the sta of the Abbey Hotel for the meal provided following the funeral service.

Fr. Victor Samugana, and Deacon Willie Gacquin for celebrating Mam’s Funeral Mass so beautifully. Fr Victor, your homily and lovely words about Mam were so comforting and captured our Mam so accurately, thank you. Aoife and Niamh thank you for the lovely music and singing which made the Mass so special. Karen for preparing the Mass Booklet and Eucharistic Minister Kitty Burke.

Finally, a special word of thanks to our family, neighbours and the community who formed Guards of Honour for Mam on her nal journey. It was very thoughtful and meant so much to us.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for all your intentions.

Our thoughts are always with you, Our memories never fade, We treasure all the things you did, And all the love you gave.

Teresa’s Months Mind Mass will be celebrated on Friday 17th January in St Brigid’s Church Four Mile House at 7 pm.

Church

COSTELLO Pat

We, the family of the late Pat Costello, would like to express our sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us on our recent heartbreaking loss.

We would like to thank all those who attended Pat’s Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. We would like to thank those who o ered online condolence, sent Mass Cards, phone calls and text messages.

Our sincere thanks to Fr. John Gannon for the beautiful Funeral Mass and for all of his support during his house visits. We also wish to thank Tulsk Choir for the wonderful music and singing. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Funeral Mass.

Our sincere thanks to our friends, neighbours and relatives for their wonderful help, support and food they provided.

We are especially grateful to Dr. Silvie Blazkova and the sta of the Oncology Department in Portiuncula University Hospital, Dr Geraldine Colleran and sta at Elphin Health Centre, Marie and sta at Elphin Pharmacy, also the Public Health Nurses, Cait and Breda. Thanks to Cathal and Mary Brady, Funeral Directors, for their support, guidance and professionalism. Our gratitude extends to the gravediggers who prepared Pat’s nal resting place. Thanks to The Friary Restaurant and sta for the lovely meal.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our sincere thanks and deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Pat’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 19th January, at 11.30am in Sts. Eithne and Fidelma Church, Tulsk.

Road, Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

FAMILYNOTICES

BROOKS Enda

(21st Anniversary)

Antrane

FINNERAN Paddy

(13th Anniversary) Onagh Taughmaconnell

In loving memory of Enda and his grandad Paddy

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

Loved and remembered by all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday, 19th January at 11am.

KEEGAN Paddy

Beechwood, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Paddy who passed away on 21st January 2019 (6th Anniversary)

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

Lovingly remembered by Kathleen, Maura, Bernie, Richard and Eric Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 19th January at 10am.

Andrew Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon

Who passed away on the 19th January 2021

My mind still talks to you, my heart still looks for you. But my soul knows you are at peace, I miss you every single day Andrew. Masses offered.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. I.W.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in 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 succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.S.

CORBETT James (Jimmy)

Mount Prospect Roscommon. (8th Anniversary)

A dear Husband and Father Jimmy we love and miss you so much God bless. “Our hero.” Veronica, James and Martin.

CURLEY

Josie Castlestrange, Fuerty, Roscommon Whose 11th Anniversary occurs on 18th January 2025

In loving memory of our beloved mother Josie Curley, Castlestrange, Fuerty, who passed away on 18th January 2014

R.I.P.

As each day dawns we think of you As each night falls we pray for you and in between no matter where deep in our hearts You’re always there. Always loved and remembered by all your loving family.

NewsPeople Council hosts successful Age Friendly Christmas Festival

Roscommon’s Age Friendly Christmas Festival took place in Kilbride Community Centre. The initiative saw a large number of groups and individuals from all over Roscommon in attendance, activity engaging in the wide range of activities on the day.

A range of guest speakers addressed the event which included Amanda Scanlon, Roscommon’s Healthy Age Friendly Homes Coordinator and Sergeant Damien Bartley, who spoke on the concepts of safety and security in the home.

Other speakers included Kathleen Shanagher of Roscommon Lions Club, who spoke about the Message in a Bottle initiative for persons who may be vulnerable or living on their own. Proceedings concluded with an address by Paddy Joe Burke, Roscommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.B.

UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY

Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K.

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE

For urgent need...

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

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For urgent need...

The event was compered by Roscommon County Council’s Communications Officer, Darragh Kelly who began by informing those present of the many information stands available. He also cited the presence of a Croí nurse conducting free health checks and free eye health screening, in conjunction with Vision Express.

The event was a very enjoyable affair full of information, nostalgia, chat and laughter. The organisers would like to thank Kilbride Community Centre for the use of their excellent venue and for ensuring the event was organised meticulously on the day.

The organisers would like to acknowledge Roscommon GAA and Roscommon’s Civil Defence for providing the transport as the ‘Club Rossie’ and Civil Defence buses were provided free of charge on the day.

Thanks are extended to the staff from Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board and Roscommon County Council. Thanks are also extended to Jimmy Kearney and Terry McGowan for providing musical entertainment.

Following the speakers, light refreshments were served. The event concluded with music and dancing and the presentation of a number of spot prizes before musical proceedings were brought to a close by the playing of the national anthem.

HANLEY

Organisers and speakers pictured at the recent Age Friendly Christmas Festival in Kilbride Community Centre. Back row: Linda Devine (Roscommon LEADER Partnership), Darragh Kelly (Communications Officer, Roscommon County Council), Cathriona MacCarthy (Administrative Officer, Roscommon County Council), Sergeant Damien Bartley (Roscommon Longford Crime Prevention Officer), Kathleen Shanagher (Roscommon Lions Club), Sheila Coyle (Age Friendly Programme Manager, Roscommon County Council). Front row: Bernie Kearney (Chairperson, Roscommon’s Older People’s Council), Amanda Scanlon (Roscommon’s Healthy Age Friendly Homes Coordinator), Paddy Joe Burke (Roscommon’s Age Friendly Ambassador) and Majella Dodd (Vice Chairperson, Roscommon’s Older People’s Council). Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured is Billy Hanmore from Boyle who sang at the recent Age Friendly Christmas Festival in Kilbride Community Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Mary Morris (Ballinlough) pictured with Rose Moran, Mary Cunnane and Madeline Egan (Ballintubber) at the recent Age Friendly Christmas Festival, which took place in Kilbride Community Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Eric McGrath (Carrick-on-Shannon) and Edward Quinn (Boyle) pictured at the recent Age Friendly Christmas Festival in Kilbride Community Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Michael Scally and Padraig Moran, both from Ballaghaderreen, pictured with Jackie Cosgrove (Croí) at the recent Age Friendly Christmas Festival in Kilbride Community Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Successful weekend for Creggs RFC

Creggs Firsts defeated Corrib in the opening round of the Connacht Junior Cup on the Creggs 4G pitch on Sunday. The Headford team arrived in Creggs as underdogs but they started impressively, leading 5-3 after 15 minutes before Creggs settled into the game.

The opening exchanges were frantic with Shane Purcell scoring a penalty after six minutes before Corrib responded with a well-taken try after a strong run by winger Daniel Afeau was halted just short of the line.

Shane Dowd crossed for a Creggs try in the 28th minute but a Corrib penalty levelled the score at 8-8 shortly afterwards. A sweeping backline move created an overlap for Darren Gately to touch down in the right corner in the runup to half-time.

Turning around 13-8 ahead, Creggs added another try in the 46th minute from flanker Lee Kilcoyne after a strong drive by his pack. Prop forward Mattie Curley then produced some slick footwork to dive over for another Creggs try which Shane Purcell converted from the touchline.

Even though currently in Division 1C, Corrib continued to carry the fight to Creggs and were rewarded with a second try from close range after good work by their forwards.

A brilliant try by Shane Dowd put Creggs ahead by 30-13. Corrib scored a third try in the 72nd minute with the conversion leaving Creggs ahead by 12 points. Corrib couldn’t close the gap any further but they deserve a lot of credit for a wholehearted and skilled display which bodes well for their hopes of gaining promotion back to 1b next season.

Creggs will be well aware that an improvement is necessary if the team is to finally bring the Junior Cup back to the village.

Creggs: Shane Dowd, Ronan Dowd, Mark Purcell, Eoghan Coyle, Darren Gately, Shane Purcell, Mark Dowd, Tom Farrell, Nato Kiripati, Mattie Curley, Ciaran Purcell, Xavier Woodhouse, Lee Kilcoyne, James Brandon, Brian Diffley, Eoghan Cahill, Sean Óg Higgins, Michael Feeley, Cormac Dolan, Mikey Dunne.

GIRLS U-14s: Creggs RFC 38 Buccaneers RFC 0. Creggs RFC U-14 girls played Buccaneers RFC in the very first playing of an U-14 competitive league final. The final was played on Saturday at Ballinasloe RFC as a neutral venue.

The girls were unfazed by the occasion and put in a dominant display from start to finish. From the start the attack was ferocious and the defence even better. Going in with a healthy lead at half-time the girls were advised to keep up the intensity.

The second half saw an even better display from all the team and they came away with a very impressive and well deserved win. Try scorers on the day were Clodagh Finneran, Saoirse Scott and Sophie Dwyer with Darcy Thorose kicking the conversions. The presentation was made by Vice-President of Connacht Rugby, Tom Horgan who handed the perpetual shield to captain Isabelle Boyle and vice-captain Leah Connolly. This was a great effort by the team and coaches to get a big panel of players ready. The club are very proud of your special achievement. Creggs panel: Isabelle Boyle, Keeva Glennon, Afia Darby, Kate Thompson, Clodagh Finneran, Melissa Tansey, Mia Dolan, Leah Connolly, Ailbhe O’Connor, Maisie Holmes, Ella Finneran, Eabha Finneran, Kayla Walsh, Muireanne Mulry, Darcy Thorose, Soairse Scott, Lily Higgins, Lily Richardson, Julianna

Gaynor, Dearbhla Gregg Haugh, Sophie Dwyer, Ellie May Jameson, Grace Tighe, Megan Kilroy, Laoise Flaherty, Ali Farrell, Carrie Killian, Lana Cox, Emer Timon, Sarah King.

U-14 BOYS: Creggs RFC 19 Carrickon-Shannon RFC 17. The U-14 Boys Connacht League final was postponed from last weekend with frozen pitches throughout Connacht and was eventually set for Creggs on Saturday. In a game befitting a final and between two good sides, it was an epic battle, won by Creggs.

It’s a great testament to the team and management after a long first half of the season with training and matches. Congrats from the club on another Connacht title. The coaches want to thank the parents for travelling and following the team to each game this year. Also a big thanks to referee Kieran Cooney who did a difficult but impressive job on the day. The presentation was made by Adrian Leddy, representing the Connacht branch.

Creggs: Leo Geraghty, Ronan Loughrey, Ryan Sharkey, Adam Farrell, Jack Crean, Bobby Harpur, Harry Feeley, Ryan Hegarty, Harry Trimble, Callum Kilcommons, Eoin Callaghan, Charlie Madden, Niall Kelly, Harry McDermott, Peter Watts, Shane Smyth, Ruairi McNeela, Ben Payne, Dara Cummins, Cian Featherston, Ewan Devine, James Doyle, Noah Costello, Jonah Harrington, Pierre Ward, Jack Jordan McDermott, Conor Donoghue, Dylan Connaughton.

U-16 BOYS: On Saturday, Creggs Boys U-16s travelled to Dangan to play Galwegians/Galway Bay in a play-off game to decide cup seedings. Having lost to the same side in November Creggs were determined to get one over the hosts this time out. Creggs ran out nine-point winners on a scoreline of 21-12.They now await the cup draw with the win giving a higher seeding position.

Creggs panel: Cathal Mulry, Matthew Donnelly, Connor Hannon, Darragh Killeen, Oisin Connolly, Kian Hughes, Andrej Anic, Robbie McArdle, Sean Richardson, Harry Waldron, Sam Walsh, Dominik Mrozek, Conor Flynn, Jamie Finneran, Brian O’Connor, AJ Tully, Callum Clarke, Patrick Murray, Patrick Conneally, Patryk Zwierczyk, Joseph McSharry.

U-16 GIRLS: Creggs Girls U-16s had a comprehensive win over Ballina in their seeding game before the cup draw. This game was played on Sunday in Creggs with the visitors coming up against a well-oiled, highly functional side. Creggs scored 11 tries and five conversions in all as Ballina failed to score as a result of a comprehensive defence by the Creggs side.

Try scores were Ella Dwyer x 2, Emily Kelly x 3, Sarah Mitchell, Chloe Coyne, Isabelly Sassuarna, Ella Gannon, Abbey Keane and Amy Hannon. Conversions were kicked by Ella Dwyer, Chloe Coyne and Abby Kane. It’s now hoped that the win will give a good seeding for the upcoming cup draw.

U-17 BOYS: Creggs Boys U-17s welcomed Monivea RFC to Creggs for a pre-cup seeding game on Sunday. Creggs won 22 to 19. The next competitive outing for this group will be the first round of the cup.

LADIES: Congrats to our Creggs RFC ladies who played again on Saturday last in Virgin Media Park, Cork with the Clovers team in the Celtic League. Ivana Kiripati and Jemima Adams Verling were both selected to play with Jemima also scoring a try during the game. Congrats ladies, you are making our little club very proud.

MINIS: Creggs minis travelled to Buccaneers RFC on Sunday in huge numbers. Our U-6s travelled for the first time and trained with their hosts. Buccaneers were great hosts and had treats for the kids after the blitz. Thanks Buccaneers RFC for the great day out.

LOTTO: Our club lotto jackpot was not won and now increases to €3800. The lucky dip winner was Jimmy Conneely. Please check to see if your membership of the lotto has lapsed. To support the running of our teams please join online at www.creggsrugby.ie

THIS WEEKEND: Creggs 1st and 2nd teams are out again this weekend in the cup and the plate. The first team has been drawn to play Ballinasloe RFC away on Sunday and our Seconds have received a tough draw against Galway Corinthians’ 2nd side at home. This will be a tough challenge against an AIL club’s second side but Creggs will be up for the challenge. No kick-off times at time of going to press.

The Creggs squad pictured prior to kick-off in their BOI Connacht Junior Cup fixture against Corrib RFC last weekend. Creggs won 30-18. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Creggs Boys U-14s… Connacht League winners last weekend.

Creggs Girls U-14s… Connacht League winners.

SportsPeople

Fairyhouse kicks off this week’s action

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Racing this week in Ireland starts this afternoon (Thursday) at Fairyhouse with a 12 noon start. Flat racing is on the all-weather tomorrow evening at Dundalk away at 4.15 pm and at Cork outside Mallow at 12.30 pm. Navan racing is on Saturday at Proudstown Park with the highlight the Navan Handicap Hurdle – first race at 12 pm. On Sunday two Grade 2 races form the highlights at Thurles, the first Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase and the Horse and Jockey Hotel Chase, away at 12.20 pm.

Cross-channel, the Berkshire Winter Million Weekend, run over two courses, starts on Friday at Windsor, continues at Ascot on Saturday, and returns to Windsor for the final day on Sunday. Friday’s highlight is the Grade 2 Novice Chase, Saturday’s is the first British Grade 1 of the year, the Clarence House Chase, and on Sunday the Grade 2 Novice Chase takes place.

Willie Mullins has Energumene in the Clarence House, where he will meet Nicky Henderson’s Jonbon in what looks like a two-horse race. Preference is for Jonbon who has won his last four outings, including three Grade 1s. Energumene has won his last outing, a Grade 2, after a long layoff of over eighteen months. Mullins also has Kargese in the Grade 2 Novice Hurdle.

Racing continued to be hit by the

BUCCANEERS RFC

weather last week as Saturday’s card at Kempton and Wetherby joined Warwick. Kelso was called off on Sunday, and even the all-weather at Lingfield was abandoned. The meeting at Plumpton on Tuesday also fell to the weather, leaving only all-weather racing at Southwell, Newcastle and Dundalk. Racing on the track in Ireland survived but the point to point at Turtulla outside Clonmel in Co Tipperary was abandoned and is refixed for next Saturday.

There will be plenty of racing on terrestrial television this weekend starting tomorrow with eight races, four from Windsor, three from Market Rasen and one from Newcastle, all on ITV. On Saturday, ITV cover seven races, four from Ascot and three from Haydock, and on Sunday, six races with four from Windsor and two from Fakenham.

Racing review

On Saturday, racing went ahead at Fairyhouse after an inspection and Gavin Cromwell trained a four-timer starting with Sixandahalf in the maiden hurdle, The King Of Prs in the Grade 3 Dan and Joan Moore Handicap Chase, Noble Birth in the novice chase and De Temps En Temps in the bumper. Willie Mullins continued his form with a double – King Alexander and Mistergif

ridden by JJ Slevin, following up with a treble in Punchestown on Sunday with Lecky Watson, Salvator Mundi in the Grade 2 Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle, and Kappa Jy Pyke, and Magic McColgan made it six for the weekend, the rest were ridden by Paul Townend.

Racing news

Welsh jockey James Bowen went through the lows and highs of national hunt racing in ninety minutes at Ffos Las on Saturday, from being trapped under Saunton Surf, over half ton of horse, when he fell at the final flight in a handicap hurdle, to winning on Keep Running in his next ride over an hour later – racing was delayed for over half an hour.

Bowen said the thought of not taking his next ride never crossed his mind.

After the fall, he was trapped under

Saunton Surf’s hind quarters and eventually a decision was made to lift the hind quarters and drag Bowen out. This involved sedating the horse to ensure he could not cause damage with his hind legs flailing, to either Bowen or those helping. Saunton Surf was only winded in the fall. Looking ahead, there are 16 entries in the Cheltenham Hurdle headed by the favourite, Nicky Henderson’s Constitution Hill, one of six British entries. Willie Mullins has six entered, headed by the exciting Lossiemouth, including State Man, Kargese and Anzadam, who is an unknown quantity. Lossiemouth and Kargese are both in the Mares’ Hurdle. Gordon Elliott’s Brighterdaysahead is 2nd favourite in the ante post market and is joined by stablemate King Of Kingsfield. Vincent Halley’s outsider Senecia completes the Irish entry of seven. All The World was a surprise Japanese entry, the first from that country since 1930. Trained by Kazuya Nakatake, the 8-Y-O was third in the Tokyo High Jump, one of the country’s leading jump races.

Ten of the 24 entered in the Mares’ Hurdle on the Tuesday, and 20 of the 36 in the Stayers’ Hurdle on Wednesday are trained in Ireland. The first five in the betting for the Mares are trained in Ireland, headed by Brighterdaysahead at 2/1 with Kargese and Lossiemouth at 3/1. The 20 Irish entries in the Stayers’ Hurdle are headed by Elliott’s Teahupoo, hot favourite at 6/4, 9/1 bar one.

Short putts

ROSCOMMON

Our young star player Olivia Costello finished second in the Andalucia Cup in Spain last weekend. Olivia led after the first round when she posted a five under par 66. As the weekend progressed more difficult conditions meant scoring wasn’t as good as on the opening day.

Rounds of 75 and 74 on Friday and Saturday respectively left Olivia as joint leader going into Sunday’s final round.

However Spanish player Nagore Martinez Salcedo coped best on Sunday, carding a two under par 69 to finish on level par (284), winning the tournament by five strokes. Olivia had a 74 on Sunday to finish on five over (289). Her achievement in finishing second in such a high quality tournament with a field of over 100 players bodes well for the rest of 2025 and we wish Olivia the very best as the golfing year evolves over the coming months.

Club member Thomas Higgins was in Chile last week to represent Ireland in the South American Championship and while he was down the field overall, he finished with an excellent two under par round of 70. There has been no action on the course over the past week because of the bad weather, however the ongoing thaw should see a return to normal this week.

The 2025 Drive-in will take place on Sunday, 9th of February at 1.30 pm. More details over the next few weeks. New members always welcome. For more details, contact Paulie Hoare on 0862986765.

It’s Navan next for Buccaneers Firsts

Buccaneers make a first competitive visit to Balreask Old where they will square up with Navan in the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A on Saturday. Kick-off at the Dublin Road venue is 2.30 pm. Buccs made a sluggish start at home to the Co Meath outfit in early December and cannot afford to let the Hoops build up another head of steam this time round. The Pirates, helped by some returnees after injury lay-offs, put in their best showing of the season last week against Corinthians. If they can extend the effort and endeavour that they put in for an hour and eliminate errors, the midlanders are capable of upsetting home expectations.

U-20s: Buccaneers U-20s are home to De La Salle Palmerston in the JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 Super Six Group 1 on Sunday. Buccs will be keen to make a winning 2025 start to this section when the action kicks off in Dubarry Park at 2.30 pm.

FIRSTS: Galway Corinthians moved to the top of the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A following a hard-earned 42-19 victory over Buccaneers at a well attended Dubarry Park on Saturday. This contest was very much in the balance until the three-quarters stage when a home yellow card and penalty try awarded to the visitors sealed the win for the westerners.

SECONDS: Buccaneers Seconds were on the back foot right from the start in their Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup game against Ballinasloe at Moher Road on Sunday.

Buccs were the east Galway outfit’s nemesis last season but the Pirates are a much weaker crew this term and the in-form westerners savoured their 68-0 victory. Buccs were not able to match the hosts despite the best efforts of del Olmo in the forwards exchanges and Cormac McDonagh at fly-half.

GIRLS: The impressive Connacht Division 1 League campaigns for Buccaneers Girls U-14 and U-16 teams came to an end on Saturday.

The U-14s reached the First Division League final against a very well drilled Creggs in Ballinasloe on Saturday last on a very sticky, heavy pitch. Creggs won 38-0. Despite the result Buccaneers are so pleased with the league campaign and acknowledge the significant achievement of securing a Connacht U-14 Division

1 League silver medal which will be presented at the season end.

Following the match all the girls enjoyed a post-match meal back at the club where the mood was lifted by the congratulations and genuine affection and support that this team and Girls Rugby has within the club.

Buccaneers U-16 Girls secured 3rd place in the Connacht League against Tuam/ Oughterard in perfect conditions at Tuam on Saturday morning. The final score 52 (8t 6c) to 22 (4t 1c) did not in any way

flatter our girls who simply took the opponents apart with forward dominance allowing the backs do their thing.

This was particularly pleasing as Buccs had suffered a 25-points defeat to the same opposition in Oughterard back in October. The result earns a third seeding for Buccaneers.

NIGEL OWENS LUNCH SOLD OUT:

Nigel Owens is proving hugely popular with Buccaneers supporters and patrons as the club’s annual Business Networking

Lunch, which takes place in Athlone’s Sheraton Hotel on Friday, February 28th, is already fully booked! There are also some bookings on a waiting list for the event which is super news for the club and reflects commendably on the organisers.

CONGRATULATIONS: Congrats to Bounty staff member Sarah Rockett who has broken the Irish J16 indoor metre record and the indoor 6km records. Rower Sarah is granddaughter of Buccaneers treasurer Michael Kiely.

The Buccaneers Girls U-14 squad, pictured last weekend.

Jonbon and Nico de Boinville wins his second Shloer Chase at Cheltenham for trainer Nicky Henderson.

SportsPeople

SPORTS DESK

Pay per view: World sport’s highest earners

According to recent figures (published by Forbes in 2024, and relating to 2023), the highest earning athlete in the world is a 39-yearold veteran footballer who is no longer playing in one of the elite leagues. Take a bow, Cristiano Ronaldo.

I was surprised to read that the modest maestro is out-earning younger superstars from the worlds of American football and basketball – not to mention golf’s current top players – but then this is clearly the ‘Saudi factor’ at play.

Ronaldo earned $200m on the pitch and a further $60m off it, giving him a 2023 income of $260m, or €253m. That’s about €4.8m every week!

He may not be playing in England, Germany, Spain or France, but his move to Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League had the lure of that astonishing $200 million annual salary.

Ronaldo has been delivered the goods too, with his usual prolific goal-scoring, lots of player of the match performances and an aura that continues to woo spectators/followers – and satisfy sponsors.

Spanish golfer Jon Rahm was placed second, with on-field earnings of $198m and off-field income of $20m. Rahm’s move to LIV Golf was obviously a big factor in his march up the rankings.

In another boost for the older sports star, Lionel Messi came in third, the 36-year-old soccer legend having earned $135m in 2023.

Perhaps surprisingly, there were only three Americans in the top ten: Basketball star LeBron James is fourth, on $128m, Stephen Curry (also basketball) ninth on $102m, and Lamar Jackson (American Football) tenth on a mere $98.5m.

The other placings are: 5: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece, basketball) $111m; 6: Kylian Mbappé (France, soccer) $110m; 7: Neymar (Brazil, soccer) $108m; 8: Karim Benzema (France, soccer) $106m.

There were no female athletes in the top ten. The highest earning female athlete in the world in 2023 was Polish tennis player Iga Świątek, on $23.9m. In 2024, fellow tennis player Coco Gauff moved ahead of Świątek, earning $30.4m.

A cold goodbye to Sean Dyche…

Sean Dyche’s heart was no longer in it, according to reports. The gruff, likeable Dyche was sacked as Everton manager last week, the club’s new owners – the Friedkin Group – moving quickly.

Having promised to act “through actions, not words” the new owners, who only took over in December, certainly haven’t hesitated in revealing a ruthless, decisive streak.

Dyche was unceremoniously relieved of his duties just three hours before Everton’s midweek FA Cup tie against Peterborough (which the Premier League side went on to win 2-0). There are reports that Dyche told his new bosses last week that he felt he had taken the club as far as he could. If that’s true, you’re in ‘Signing one’s own death warrant’ territory. That said, it’s almost certain that his fate was sealed before Christmas when the takeover was being finalised, i.e. a ‘New owners, new start, new manager’ mindset.

That’s business, but it was disheartening to read the wording of the Everton FC statement confirming Dyche’s exit, which bluntly stated that he “has been relieved of his duties as Senior Men’s First Team Manager with immediate effect”.

There was no further reference to Dyche in that club statement. No a single word. No thanks were expressed for his service in recent seasons, no good wishes issued to him for the future. It was cold, odd… virtually without precedent too. Everton have now turned to former manager David Moyes, who was appointed on Saturday. Moyes had a very good spell at Everton from 2002-2013, and now returns just over a decade on, having managed Manchester United, Real Sociedad, Sunderland, and West Ham (twice) in the interim. Moyes is a good manager, but it remains to be seen if he can lift Everton (16th in the Premier League as I write on Tuesday, and one of six clubs never to have been relegated since its inception in 1992) and indeed meet the expectations of the new owners.

In other Premier League management news, Graham Potter is back in the game, having been appointed as the new manager of West Ham. Potter had a torrid time as Chelsea manager, having previously enjoyed a very positive period in charge of Brighton. He has a lot to offer, and it looks like a good appointment by the Hammers.

Mary steps in…

Ken’s quip…

I thought it a little strange that GAA HQ issued Best of luck to Mary Grehan, member of a very well-known Roscommon GAA family, who has been appointed manager of the Roscommon junior camogie team.

A former footballer and camogie player of note – who also has impressive coaching pedigree –Mary has been given a three-year term.

Humiliating Hansen…

Naturally, it wasn’t enough for rugby’s URC to impose a six-game ban (three weeks suspended) on Connacht’s Mack Hansen… of course they had to add a layer of humiliation too.

His ‘sin’ was to speak out about the standard of refereeing. Perhaps that outburst was out of line, but the punishment was nauseating, not least for the patronising (and public) nature of it.

Hansen was ordered to apologise to the referee and warned as to his future conduct. Then came the humiliation, disguised as being ‘helpful’.

I quote: “The player must undertake an appropriate course (related to match officiating)… with the learnings to be disseminated with his team-mates at Connacht Rugby” and “Connacht Rugby must run an education session with their players about how to conduct themselves in post-match media sessions and interactions with the media”.

I totally agree with Gary Doyle (Irish Mirror) who wrote: “It sounded like the kind of note a headmaster would send home with a naughty child. Except this was not directed at a fiveyear-old. Instead it was towards a rugby club and its best player, the extremely personable and talented Mack Hansen.

“Only in rugby would you hear this kind of guff. Words and phrases like learnings and sticking to the process are patronising jargon, stolen out of a cheap coaching manual”. It really was obnoxiously patronising. Beware the egotistical ‘suits’ in sport. Is it any wonder that the late Brian Clough so despised football directors! I am reminded (a little) of the disdain for the ‘men in suits’ who had such control over players that was so memorably exhibited by eccentric English footballer Len Shackleton (a star from the 1940s onwards).

In his autobiography, Len included a chapter famously titled ‘The Average Director’s Knowledge of Football’ – that chapter title was followed by a single blank page!

The following exchange drew some laughter from the audience during the Masters Snooker last weekend:

Dennis Taylor (on commentary): “Oh… there’s a fly on a red ball”. Co-commentator, Ken Doherty: “Dennis, did you open your wallet again?”

Murray staying with Connacht

County Roscommon native Niall Murray has signed a new two-year contract with Connacht Rugby. Niall, from Brideswell in South Roscommon, has agreed a two-year extension that will keep him at Dexcom Stadium until at least 2027.

Murray came through the ranks at Buccaneers RFC and the Connacht Academy, before making his debut in the Champions Cup tie against Gloucester in December 2019. He was named in the URC Dream Team for the 2022/23 season, reflecting his brilliant performances at the time. He has played 26 times for the province so far.

GAA appoints new ‘Head of Hurling’

The GAA has announced that William Maher has been appointed as the new National Head of Hurling. From Tipperary, Maher is a native of the Ballingarry club and has the unique distinction of being captain of his county when they won the All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship in 1996, before later managing the Tipperary minors to secure the same title in 2012. He has been involved as a coach and team manager at club and county levels in Tipperary, Waterford, Dublin, Laois and Kilkenny.

Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns said: “I am delighted that a person of the calibre and experience of William Maher is to be our new National Head of Hurling. This is a crucially important post that will be at the heart of our strategy to protect the game where it thrives and promote it where it needs to be nurtured and developed. Hurling is our national sport, acknowledged internationally by UNESCO. “We are committed to ensuring that William and the HDC have the ability to make a significant impact and to give as many people as possible the opportunity to play and enjoy this national treasure”

Lee Kilcoyne scores Creggs’ third try in their 30-18 win over Corrib RFC in the BOI Connacht Junior Cup last weekend. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Paul Healy

Giannis Antetokounmpo… earned $111m

Cristiano Ronaldo… 2023 income of $260m

Coco Gauff… earned $30.4m in 2024

Sports PEOPLE

Neilan to referee All-Ireland club final

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St Faithleach’s club man Paddy Neilan will referee this Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland Club Senior Football final between Errigal Ciarán and Cuala.

The football final will throw in at 3.40 pm. It’s a further honour for the Roscommon man who was a linesman at the All-Ireland senior final between Armagh and Galway in 2024, and who refereed last year’s All-Ireland U-20 final, contested by Tyrone and Kerry.

The hurling decider between Na Fianna and Sarsfields of Cork will be refereed by Liam Gordon from Galway who has managed the Athleague camogie side in recent years.

Grehan is new camogie manager

Mary Grehan has been appointed as the new manager of the Roscommon camogie junior team. Mary is a former dual player, having played football and camogie for Roscommon.

Mary has managed Roscommon camogie teams at underage level and was in charge when the U-16 team won an All-Ireland title in 2019.

The new manager comes from a well-known sporting family. Her brothers Tommy and Francie were prominent Roscommon senior footballers for many years, with Francie winning an All-Star in 2001. Mary’s father, Frank has been involved in many inter-county and club teams over the years too.

Joining Mary in the backroom team will be Mairead O’Beirne, Liam Murray, and Barbara Hannon. Roscommon will play in Division 3A of the National League this year and the season will start in March.

Egan announces first panel

New Roscommon ladies football manager Finbar Egan has finalised his panel ahead of the Lidl National League which starts on Sunday week. There are 15 clubs represented on the panel, with county champions Clann na nGael having five players on the list while runners-up St Brigid’s have four. Roscommon will play in Division Two and their

campaign will start with a home game against Monaghan in Johnstown on Sunday week, January 26th. Clare, Galway, Donegal, Cork, Westmeath and Tipperary are also in Division Two.

The 2025 panel is as follows: Boyle: Caoimhe Cregg, Megan McKeon, Saoirse Wynne; Castlerea St Kevin’s: Lisa O’Rourke; Clann na nGael:

Caoimhe Lennon, Ciara Quinn, Megan Kelly, Orla O’Neill, Roise Lennon; Kilbride: Aisling Hanly, Aisling Shanagher; Michael Glaveys: Helena Cummins; Northern Harps: Lauren Shanagher; Padraig Pearses: Caitlin Malone, Grainne Lohan; St Barry’s: Shannon McGuinness; St Brigid’s: Abby Curran, Caoimhe O’Reilly, Marian Nolan, Ria Lennon; St Ciaran’s: Laura Fleming Mannion, Rachel Fitzmaurice, Shauna Fitzmaurice; St Croan’s: Amy Malone, Ella Thompson; St Dominic’s: Aine O’Meara, Aimee O’Connor, Niamh Watson; St Faithleach’s: Ellen Irwin; St Mary’s, Tulsk: Niamh Feeney; Thomas Davis (Dublin): Rachel Brady; Western Gaels: Saoirse Timon.

CREGGS RFC ON A ROLL

- see page 37

Explained… the new Gaelic football rules

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When Gaelic football fans flock to GAA grounds around the country later this month for the start of the new season, they will encounter the biggest changes that the game has ever seen in terms of the playing rules.

The Football Review Committee, under former Dublin manager Jim Gavin, spent almost 12 months devising what changes needed to be made to a sport which had become an increasingly poor spectacle in recent years due largely to negative tactics. So what can the public expect to see? There are seven core changes that will come into force. They are as follows: *The throw-in at the start of both

halves will now be contested by only one player from each side. The other two midfielders will take up a position on opposite sidelines and will come on to the field after the throw-in.

*Kickouts will take place from the 20 metre line but must travel outside a new 40 metre arc. Players can stay inside the 20 metre line for the kickout as long as they are more than 13 metres from the ball. Goalkeepers will still be allowed to come out the field, but they can only take a pass from a teammate if they are in the opposition half.

*Solo and Go: A player who is fouled has the option of tapping the free to himself and continuing to play on.

*Teams must keep a minimum of three outfield players in each half of the

field at all times. There will be a broken line across the field at the halfway point to ensure that rule is enforced.

*The existing advanced mark will be scrapped and will be replaced by a mark awarded if the ball is kicked from outside the 45 metre line and caught inside the 20 metre line.

*A new ‘scoring arc’ will be introduced at each end of the field extending outwards from the existing 20 metre line. Successful shots from outside the arc will be worth two points. 45s will still only be worth one point if scored. A two-point score will be indicated when an orange flag is waved by the umpire.

*If a player tries to stop a free being taken by an opponent the ball will

be brought forward 50 metres by the referee. This punishment also applies when there is dissent aimed at a referee. If team officials aim abuse at the referee the referee can award the opposing team a 13 metre free. There are some other changes too.

The only player on a team that can seek clarity from a referee on any decision is the team captain.

In terms of time keeping, a public clock and hooter similar to the system used in ladies football will be used where it is available.

The rules with regard to any melee that breaks out have also been strengthened and any player who is seen to be contributing to a melee will receive a straight red card.

Action from Creggs v Corrib RFC in the BOI Connacht Junior Cup last weekend. Brian Diffley is grounded just short of the try line by Orin Burke. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell