1 December 2023 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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www.bccsolicitors.ie ACCIDENT AT WORK

I was injured in an accident at my workplace about two weeks ago. Thankfully I was not seriously injured but my work colleague told me afterwards that I should have reported the incident to management. Is this true? I would be interested in your opinion as to what a person should do if they were involved in a workplace accident. If you have suffered an injury at work, there are certain steps you should follow: 1. Report the injury to your employer: Inform your employer as soon as possible of the injury and how it happened. Your employer should record the injury in the accident book and give you a copy of the entry. 2. Seek medical attention: If necessary, seek medical attention for your injury. Your employer should pay for any medical treatment you need as a result of the injury.

e l p o e WATCHING P With PAUL HEALY

Topics to avoid? Bah! The Editor’s trying to get us to quit this page! So, my friend, what will we talk about this week? What can we talk about? That’s the problem, isn’t it? Did you see that list the Editor sent on? Unbelievable! YES! That’s why I asked! I’m still reeling after reading it! Marked ‘To the Boyos… TOPICS TO AVOID’. Cheek of him! CYCLING Well, he isACCIDENT the Editor, I guess! But it was a bit much. So much for a free press! He’s to muzzle If youtrying were involved in a us! cycling I suppose argument is… he’s the Ediaccidenthis contact tor… so he gets to have a big say in what Byrne Carolan goes into ourSolicitors column… Cunningham Do you think he gives directives like that to Frank Brandon? I dunno! Word is that Frank is protected from any editorial interference, they call it the ‘Creggs clause’! That figures! Anyway, cheek of him! What a list to send us! (They pause to browse through the Editor’s list, tut-tutting away as ‘Fairytale of New York’ plays in the background) He’s turning the screw… Exactly! Putting the squeeze on us! He’s trying to force us to resign! I suspect he wants us gone by the New Year! He has Brolly lined up – for once and for all! Ah, don’t panic! He might just have been in a mood when he sent that email! Another mood?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Actually I ran into him recently. I was out for a walk, next thing he pops out of the bookies, looking flustered… Really? Yeah, he was blushing like mad, seemingly someone had seen him put a tenner on Leeds to win the Championship… Hilarious! We had a slightly awkward conversation. I reminded him we need to agree

on a new contract… that our negotiations have been moving slowly… Eh, since 2020… He mumbled something about getting back to me. So I’m, er… confident! Nah, this list is all about testing our patience! He’s trying to force us to quit! Wow, you really are stressed about this ‘topics to avoid’ list! Fancy telling us what we can’t write or talk about! Well, it’s his ‘considered advice’… It’s a threat! Let me read it out… SO… he doesn’t want us commenting on… Go on… (rolls eyes). The far-right. Fair enough. The far-left. Mmnn… Ryan Tubridy. Marty Morrissey. Miriam O’Callaghan. That guy has friends in high places in the media! Elon Musk. Mickey Harte. The Government. The Healy-Raes. Roy Keane. Culture wars. Daniel O’Donnell… Yeah… … Dermot Bannon. This is PURE CENSORSHIP! RELAX! I’m telling you, he wants us to jump, so he won’t have to push us! Why would we jump… over this list? On journalistic principle! Ha! NEVER!

It’s been a GOOD week for…

If your injury prevents you from working for more than 3 days, you should report the injury to the Injuries Board. Your solicitor will assist you with this process if you wish. Your solicitor will also advise you is you are entitled to claim compensation for your injuries and any out-of-pocket expense to include loss of earnings if you are out of work for a period as result of your injury.

☺

Castlerea St Kevin’s, who were crowned Connacht Intermediate Football champions following a memorable victory over Monivea-Abbey last Saturday

It is important to note that if you have suffered an injury at work, you should act quickly to protect your rights. The deadline for making a claim for compensation is 2 years from the date of the injury.

Irish boxing superstar Katie Taylor, who is the new undisputed super-lightweight champion of the world following her thrilling win over defending champion Chantelle Cameron in the 3Arena on Saturday night

Please feel free to contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Litigation Department if you would like further advice. Our specialist Personal Injury Solicitors will be happy to advise you.

Patrick Kielty, with the new Late Late Show host receiving extremely positive reviews after presenting his first ever Toy Show

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

TV viewers, with the aforementioned Late Late Show proving to be a timely tonic after the shocking events in Dublin over the previous 24 hours

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

Irish writer Paul Lynch, who won the Booker Prize for his novel ‘Prophet Song’

It’s been a BAD week for…

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PIC OF THE WEEK: Nathan Bligh of Castlerea St Kevin’s celebrates at full-time after his secondhalf goal helped his team win the Connacht Intermediate Football final last Saturday in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

☹

Ireland, following the terrible events in Dublin last week, where multiple stabbings at a school were followed by a riot in the city centre

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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IN THE AFTERMATH OF TRAGEDY: A call for unity and understanding With our national spirit fragmented, it’s time for a return to the core values that define us as a nation, writes EMMETT CORCORAN In the wake of last Thursday’s harrowing incident in Dublin, where innocence was violently shattered, our nation stands at a crossroads. The attack on children and their caregiver, followed by the chaos that swept through our streets, has left us with more than just the debris of riots; it’s left us with a fragmented national spirit, yearning for healing and understanding. The Government’s response, though well intentioned in its effort to tighten hate speech laws, feels like a misstep. It’s a solution that, while arguably necessary in its own right, doesn’t quite touch the heart of our current crisis. We’re grappling with a problem that legislation alone cannot solve. Our challenge is deeper, rooted in the very way we communicate and connect as a nation. The violence and the vitriol that followed have exposed a bitter truth: we have become a nation divided, not just by ideologies, but by our inability to engage in genuine, empathetic dialogue. The extremists, on both

Chaos in Dublin last Thursday night.

sides, are loud and their rhetoric is divisive, but they do not speak for all of us. Their voices, filled with anger and fear, drown out the quiet majority who still believe in the values of empathy, respect, and understanding. In the midst of this turmoil, let’s not

forget the acts of bravery and humanity that shone brightly. The heroes who stepped in to stop the attacker were not defined by their nationalities but by their courage and compassion. Their actions remind us of the fundamental goodness that exists within us, a

goodness that transcends borders and backgrounds. Now, more than ever, we need to nurture this goodness. We need conversations, not confrontations. We need to sit down with our neighbours, listen to their worries and their

hopes, and find common ground. Our discussions should not be about winning arguments but about understanding each other’s perspectives. We cannot change what has happened, so let us try to turn this tragedy into a catalyst for change. It’s time to rekindle the spirit of community that Ireland is known for. Let’s create spaces, both physical and digital, where people can come together to share, learn, and heal. Let’s celebrate our diversity, not as a source of division, but as a wellspring of strength and richness. As we rebuild the damaged streets and fix the smashed windows, let’s also mend the broken lines of communication. Let’s replace hate with empathy, fear with understanding, and division with solidarity. Our path forward is not through further polarisation but through collective efforts to understand and respect each other. In conclusion, this is not just a call for unity but a plea for a return to the core values that define us as a nation. It’s a reminder that in the heart of every crisis lies an opportunity for growth and renewal. Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and emerge stronger, more united, and more compassionate than ever before.

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie bout in the 3Arena. And with Katie being 37 years of age, many of us wondered if she really could roll back the years against such an accomplished champion. Taylor’s win – after 10 thrilling rounds – silenced all doubters, and enhances a reputation that is already peerless. What a sportsperson she is. Avenging her defeat to Cameron earlier this year and becoming an undisputed world boxing champion at two different weights just elevates our superstar to even greater heights, and leaves us… searching for superlatives.

THURSDAY A horrifying day A horrifying day… one that has left us shocked, shattered, and sad. The vicious attack on innocence happened at around 1.30 pm, with three children and a creche worker stabbed outside Gaelscoil Cólaiste Mhuire in Dublin. With this shocking attack allegedly carried out by an Algerian national, far-right activists reacted with a violent protest. Our capital city came under attack, initially orchestrated by those far-right elements. At the height of a terrifying breakdown in law and order, the Gardaí were overpowered, Dublin suddenly in the control of a mob. An evening of mayhem slowly and starkly stole our freedom. Carnage reigned, until calmness eventually returned. It seemed that every available young thug in the city centre had joined in with relish, burning buses and Garda patrol cars, damaging properties, looting shops, delivering terror to the streets. One video on social media, which showed an isolated Garda being physically attacked by a gang of louts, was particularly shocking. Those of us of a certain age wondered how a Garda could ever be met with such hatred. (These blackguards should be shown zero tolerance. Being made to do a day’s work would probably be the greatest punishment they could be subjected to). It was a horrifying day, followed by a night of shame. What happened at the school was horrific. What happened later, in our streets – our streets – was shameful. As for our immigration policy, I believe there are legitimate issues that should be addressed. But there is no justification for thuggery, for wanton destruction, for imbecilic violence against the custodians of our republic, against citizens, or property. Our country is turning on itself. We are better that this; certainly we were.

SUNDAY Christmas kick-off!

Can we step back from the precipice? Probably not. It’s more likely to get worse.

FRIDAY Billy’s birthday And now for something completely different… a random few words on legendary Scottish comedian Billy Connolly, because mention of his name might remind us to smile or laugh (prompted by the Internet informing me that today is his 81st birthday). I was disappointed that he didn’t feature particularly highly in recent online polls on ‘Greatest ever comedians’. Of course these are subjective exercises which carry no factual credibility. One person’s Richard Pryor can – bizarrely – be another person’s Jimmy Carr. Those of us who saw Billy in his prime will never forget the experience of seeing him for the first time (and enjoying him in subsequent years). He was exhilarating: a force of nature on stage, a wonderful storyteller, authentic and hilarious. For many of my generation, Connolly first came to notice through now

legendary appearances on the late Michael Parkinson’s BBC chat show. Later, broadcasts of his live shows introduced his genius to millions of TV viewers. Connolly’s illness (he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease many years ago) eventually brought forward his retirement. In occasional documentaries, we see its debilitating impact on him, but also how courageously and stoically he is coping. New heroes emerge in comedy, as in all entertainment and sporting genres. But for millions worldwide, Billy Connolly cemented his place in the Comedy Hall of Fame a long time ago. Happy birthday to a much-loved genius.

FRIDAY Uplifting Toy Show I was concerned that the appalling events in Dublin the previous day – when three children were victims of a shocking attack – might cast a huge shadow over a night that is aimed at them and their peers. Instead, host Patrick Kielty began tonight’s Late Late Toy Show with well chosen words which spoke for a

nation’s empathy for the children (and their families) impacted by Thursday’s terrible event. And in the hours that followed, the show was pitched perfectly, with a tone and dignity that lifted the national mood, while remaining respectful of the emotional backdrop arising from the previous day’s tragic events. This was a very slick production and a triumph for Kielty, who did a fine job in his first Toy Show outing.

SATURDAY NIGHT Katie’s greatest feat? When it comes to Katie Taylor – whether with the written word or in conversation – I think we’re all grasping for new superlatives now. Icon. Legend. Superstar. They’ve all been used many times, and still we breathlessly observe her ever-growing greatness. Was tonight’s win over Chantelle Cameron the greatest of Katie’s incredible career? Almost certainly. After all, it was Cameron who had inflicted the first defeat of her professional career on the Bray boxer. Cameron was herself unbeaten as a professional going into tonight’s

There was a great turnout for the annual Roscommon Town Christmas Lights switching-on ceremony today, which happily could proceed despite ongoing works in the Square. For the umpteenth year in a row, Santa Claus prioritised Roscommon in his pre-Christmas calendar, loyalty on his part which is clearly attributable to two things: (a) the great time he has for the children of Roscommon and (b) his appreciation for the tremendous voluntary work put in year after year by the members of the Christmas Lights committee.

MONDAY Castlerea crowned The celebrations are ongoing this week after Castlerea St Kevin’s continued their great championship odyssey of 2023 with a magnificent Connacht title triumph in Tuam on Saturday. This was a great achievement by a proud club which has a very distinguished history and a tradition of producing top inter-county players. Congratulations to the Castlerea players and management. The sleeping giant is wide awake!

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Local student on UCD team Klassic Cleaners launching Ireland’s first satellite Ireland’s first satellite is due to launch into orbit this week. Designed and built by a student-led team at UCD, EIRSAT-1 will carry three experiments into space and report data back to a command centre on the Irish campus. Gabriel Finneran from “the Roscommon side of Athlone” is a member of the UCD team which aims to make history when the EIRSAT-1 satellite is launched by rocket into space. Gabriel’s role in the team has been focused on developing operational procedures and testing the satellite to ensure it will survive in space. Gabriel said, “This has been a truly amazing project to work on. Our team in UCD is the first in the country to design and build a satellite that will be launched into orbit and then operated from Ireland. Having started on this project as a student, and worked on it for so long, it is extremely exciting to now be this close to launch date!”. Gabriel is a PhD student

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Roscommon man, Gabriel Finneran (far right) with fellow UCD EIRSAT-1 team members and a life-sized replica of the satellite. Photo: Andres Poveda

in the UCD Space Science group. His research focuses on the link between supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. He graduated from UCD in 2020 with a BSc in Physics with Astronomy and Space Science.

Throughout the project, Gabriel and his EIRSAT-1 teammates in UCD have worked with the European Space Agency (ESA),’s ‘Fly Your Satellite programme’, to receive outstanding training,

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industry or academia. The satellite’s three experiments will test new space technologies developed in Ireland, including an advanced instrument that will probe the early Universe.

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Exit of Leyden and Shanagher has blown election race wide open ELECTION EYE EMMETT CORCORAN

PART TWO: Roscommon Municipal District In part two of this special Roscommon People series looking ahead to next year’s local elections, Election Eye takes a closer look at the ‘lay of the land’ in the Roscommon Municipal District (MD). The basics

This MD is home to Roscommon Town, Castlerea and Ballyleague along with all their respective hinterlands. The sitting councillors are Orla Leyden (Fianna Fáil, Castlecoote); Paschal Fitzmaurice (Fianna Fáil, Castlerea); Marty McDermott (Fianna Fáil, Roscommon Town); Nigel Dineen (Independent, Knockcroghery with ties to Ballintubber/Castlerea), Anthony Waldron (Independent, Ballintubber), Kathleen Shanagher (Independent, Roscommon Town). Of these well-known players, two have announced their intention not to contest next year’s local elections: Orla Leyden and Kathleen Shanagher. Both these withdrawals from the race see the Roscommon Town area blown wide open for newcomers, putting approximately 2600 first preferences up for grabs. Despite not contesting the 2019 local elections, Roscommon Town’s Larry Brennan is back on the campaign trail following the Fianna Fáil selection convention earlier this year. He will be in with a great shot of holding the seat for his party. Nigel Dineen will be looking to make up some ground with Cllr Shanagher’s 1400-plus votes coming into circulation. A popular auctioneer, Dineen is a recognisable name across the MD. Originally from the Ballintubber area, Cllr Dineen now lives in Knockcroghery and has historically pulled a respectable vote across the entire geographic spread of the local electoral area.

Fallout

The Roscommon ‘Central’ MD has been the site of a great amount of political upheaval over the past decade

(and a bit), beginning with the closure of Roscommon Hospital’s A&E in 2011, by Enda Kenny’s Fine Gael-led Government. This move resulted in poll-topping TD, Denis Naughten, losing the Fine Gael party whip. Subsequently, the Fine Gael organisation was decimated in the locality, with many supporters following Deputy Naughten into the independent ranks. Two elected representatives followed suit. They were Councillor Laurence Fallon and Councillor Domnick Connolly. Connolly was re-elected in 2014 but failed to retain his seat in 2019 (Cllr Fallon serves in the Athlone area). In 2019, Gerry Coffey made a valiant effort (843 first preference votes) to take a seat for Fine Gael, but faced an uphill battle with stiff opposition from established players on his doorstep in West Roscommon. Coffey hung in until the fifth and final count before being eliminated.

Revival

Fine Gael has, in the last week, seen a revival of its fortunes with popular local men Gareth Scahill (Castlerea) and Robbie McConn (Athleague, with plenty of active interests in Roscommon Town) getting the nod to run for the party next June. Mr Scahill will undoubtedly take a big vote in Castlerea town. He runs his family’s hardware business in Castlerea and has been a very active member of the community over the past number of years. A founding member of Castlerea Town Team, Mr Scahill will be a formidable candidate. Mr McConn, from Athleague, but living in Roscommon Town, is a well-known community figure who is prominent in sporting circles. Active

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ROSCOMMON

“struck the right kind of balance” in terms of gender. However, in June of 2022, Ms Flanagan left the party, stating: “The Social Democrats is not the party”. Commenting on X (formerly Twitter) Ms Flanagan elaborated on her comments to the Sunday Independent: “Some personal news. Being in a party should empower you but it was sucking the life out of me. I would never stay in a party I don’t truly believe in, that would make me a hypocrite. This isn’t the end of me being politically active, it’s the start of a new beginning for me”. Ms Flanagan would be a fresh face in the race. Coming from a political dynasty would undoubtedly give the young candidate a head start. Her father, Luke Flanagan, has enjoyed an illustrious career in independent politics as a county councillor, TD, and MEP. The politically savvy younger Flanagan would be a serious contender should she decide to run.

Sinn Féin approach

ATHLONE in the GAA at a club and county level, he is a member of the Roscommon GAA County Board. Also a director of Roscommon Racecourse, he was recently elected vice-captain of Roscommon Golf Club for 2024. If I were a betting man, I would say Gareth Scahill’s entry to the race will place significant pressure on Fianna Fáil poll-topper Paschal Fitzmaurice. Cllr Fitzmaurice won 1,962 first preference votes in 2019. While Cllr Fitzmaurice can afford to shed the best part of a thousand first preferences and still comfortably get elected, he will face local opposition he didn’t have to contend with in 2019. Of the two newcomers to the Fine Gael ticket, Robbie McConn has the considerably more difficult body of work ahead of him. The populace remains split on the Roscommon A&E debacle. But Mr McConn is a fresh face and should be able to win back a good portion of the Fine Gael gene pool voters for the party in the vicinity of Roscommon town.

Independents day

I observed the 2019 local election count from my bed in the Mater Hospital, as I awaited the start of my chemotherapy treatment. What I will always remember from that day is

Ballintubber’s Seamus O’Brien has been a regular contestant in local elections for Sinn Féin over the years. Despite numerous close calls, Sinn Féin has never managed to get a candidate over the finish line in this locality. Given that Sinn Féin are in a poll position coming into the local elections next year, perhaps Mr O’Brien, or another, will fancy their chances in 2024.

Conclusion

the massive amount of votes taken by independent candidates across Roscommon. Nowhere was this more true than in the Roscommon MD. In 2019, Kathleen Shanagher took 1,460 first preference votes, followed by Tony Waldron with 1,333 and Nigel Dineen securing 1,002. It would probably be safe to assume that with Cllr Shanagher bowing out of next year’s election, Cllr Dineen and Cllr Waldron will have a slightly easier job of securing re-election. But with the entry of Mr Scahill and Mr McConn to the race, nothing can be taken for granted by these two seasoned contenders. Their job could be made somewhat more difficult by the possible entry of Isabelle Flanagan, daughter of Independent MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan into the race. In 2020, Ms Flanagan joined the Social Democrats. In February 2021, she stated that she felt the party

In the grand scheme of things, charismatic Fianna Fáil councillor, Marty McDermott, seems like a safe seat. The popular local man who works with local draper, John Corcoran (no relation), earned 1,173 first preferences on his first outing in 2019. With a solid base in Roscommon Town, and with the exit, for now, of Orla Leyden from local politics, Cllr McDermott looks like the safest incumbent. There are still plenty of unknowns as the local election race heats up. As you look toward Ballyleague in East Roscommon and Cloonfad in West Roscommon, these communities – while not massive population centres – could be forgiven for feeling under-represented on the council. If I were to call the election today, I could plausibly see the Roscommon MD returning three Fianna Fáil councillors, two Independent councillors and one Fine Gael councillor. Given that the lay of the land in this local electoral area is significantly different than it was in 2019, how the chips will ultimately fall is anyone’s guess.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Carrick-on-Shannon Community School HT G I N N E OP Years

g First dians n i m o c n For I arents/Guar P & their

Thursday, 7th December 2023

Online Information Meeting 29th November, 2023

There was a fantastic crowd in Roscommon town on Sunday evening for the turning on of the Christmas lights. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Gardaí appeal for information on Castlerea carjacking incident Gardaí have now issued a public appeal for information in relation to the theft of a vehicle on Williamstown Road, Castlerea, County Roscommon which occurred on Tuesday, 21st of November 2023 at approximately 5.30pm (as reported by the Roscommon People last week). In what has been described as a carjacking incident, it is understood that the driver of the vehicle was briefly dragged along the road as the thief drove off in her car. The man had al-

legedly approached the driver in a carpark and claimed that he had a flat tyre. In a statement on the ordeal experienced by the driver of the vehicle, the Gardaí said: ‘A woman in her 70s was injured during the course of this incident and later received treatment at Sligo University Hospital. ‘No arrests have been at this time but Gardaí are following a definite line of enquiry with regards to this investigation. A family liaison officer has been appointed’.

Full details visit: www.carrickcs.ie Closing date for Applications: 15th December, 2023

Carrick-on-Shannon Community School Learning at the heart of our Community

In their press statement, Gardaí appealed for anyone with information on this incident to come forward to them. In particular, they would like to hear from anyone who may have information regarding the whereabouts of a 08 RN registration red Volkswagen Fox hatchback. Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí at Castlerea Garda Station 094 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station. Investigations are ongoing.

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Hospice launches 2023 Christmas Cards project Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation have officially launched their Christmas Cards 2023 project with CEO Martina Jennings and singer John McNicholl. Totalhealth pharmacies are the sponsor for the Christmas cards each year and the Hospice is very grateful to them for the support. In a press statement, Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation said: “Our Christmas cards are available in all totalhealth pharmacies in Mayo and Roscommon and in our 12 Hospice shops and also online at hospice. ie. “John McNicholl will be singing at our tree-lighting ceremony on Sunday, December 3rd at 6 pm at the Plaza in Knock following the Memorial Walk (at 5 pm) around Knock”. Since its inception, the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has been dedicated to funding, supporting, developing and providing palliative care services to individuals and their families facing life-limiting illnesses. Martina Jennings, CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, said: “By buying our Christmas cards, you are supporting the work that we do at Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation. That is ensuring pa-

Bank of Ireland Roscommon

Coffee Morning on Thursday 07th December Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation CEO Martina Jennings and singer John McNicholl

tients with life-limiting illnesses from Mayo and Roscommon have the best possible facilities, where they can be cared for with dignity and respect and that their families also receive the support they require.

“All of the funds raised throughout this event will go towards sustaining and expanding these vital services in our hospices and the community”. For more information or to buy cards, see www.hospice.ie.

in Roscommon Branch from 10am – 1pm

All proceeds in aid of local Roscommon Hospice THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) - Part 8 Applicant: Roscommon County Council Location: Unit B1, New Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon, F45 K763 Proposal: Pursuant to the requirements of the above, notice is hereby given of … A proposed development consisting of: Change of use of the unit for use as CLASS 10 (c) Use as a public library or public reading room, from its current use of CLASS 2- Use for the provision of— (a) financial services, (b) professional services (other than health or medical services), (c) any other services (including use as a betting office), as granted under PD/07/2180. An appropriate assessment screening report and environmental impact assessment screening report of the proposed development has been completed and is available for inspection with this development. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required, and that the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 appropriate assessment. Where any person considers that a development proposed to be carried out would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, he or she may, at any time before the expiration of 5 weeks beginning on the date of publication of the notice referred to in Article 81(2), apply to An Bord Pleanala for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such effects. Plans and Particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy for a period of 4 weeks from 01/12/2023 during public opening hours at the offices of the Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council or Boyle Municipal Office, Cootehall Street, Boyle Co. Roscommon. Plans and particulars can also be viewed online on the Roscommon County Council website at the following link: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/About_Us/PART-8-Local-Authority-Own-Developments/ A submission or observation in relation to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made, in writing or via email before 4pm on 26/01/2024, marked “Ballaghaderreen Library” and submitted to: Housing, Culture and International Protection, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. F42 VR98 Or lflynn@roscommoncoco.ie

Signed: Fiona Ní Chuinn, Acting Director of Services

Date: 01/12/2023

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Toy Show fun a stark contrast to previous day’s thuggery Our man Frank on the shocking lawlessness in Dublin last Thursday; In praise of Toy Show star Sheamie; In awe of Katie Taylor; Some local events… and Castlerea’s great win It’s Friday evening, and unusually for me, I’ve decided to stay at home for the Late Late Toy Show. For the last few years, despite everyone talking about how good the shows were, and how wonderful Ryan Tubridy was at presenting them, I have headed to the pub for a few quiet pints on Toy

Show night, more or less to escape from all the razzmatazz. This Friday however – I suppose because it was Patrick Kielty’s first Toy Show – I decided to watch, and I have to say that overall I enjoyed it. I can’t say it was riveting entertainment but, considering it was his first one, I would say he handled it all very well. The reaction on both social media and mainstream media seems to be pretty favourable, and (as seems to be the norm with the Toy Show) we discovered quite a character, in this instance a young Clare lad called Sheamie who absolutely stole the show, and who will surely be a TV star of the future. Sheamie (aged just 7) and boasting a highly questionable mullet hairstyle, was hilarious as he told some of his family secrets, chatted like an auld fella with Patrick Kielty, and charmed the hundreds of thousands of people who were watching all over the

world. Sheamie was such a hit that umpteen viewers said he should have a show of his own, and I have no doubt that some day he will. The icing on the cake for Kielty was the fact that more than €3.3m was raised for charity, so all told I would say he can look back on a very successful maiden Toy Show presentation. It’s funny how television can throw up such happiness and enjoyment on a Friday night, only hours after showing us some of the most appalling scenes ever witnessed in our capital city, when thugs, criminals or scumbags – or whatever you want to call them – took over the streets of Dublin, causing terror and mayhem to most of its population. As we all saw, they looted several shops, burned buses, Garda cars, and a Luas Tram, attacked our Gardaí with all types of weapons, and for a number of hours lawlessness reigned

Amazing Katie is box(ing) office

Sometimes I never seem to watch the telly at all during the week, while other times I seem to spend all week looking at it – and this was one of those weeks! On Saturday night, only two days after watching the terrible violence in our capital city’s streets, I watched another hour or so of more unrelenting violence on a pay per view channel, DAZN. However, this time it was ‘legalised violence’ as Katie Taylor went to war with Chantelle Cameron in a boxing contest that ranks as one of the best and most brutal fights I have ever seen. Ten absolutely riveting rounds of boxing with no quarter asked or given between two totally committed and focused fighters ended with Katie reclaiming all her world title belts, but – even more importantly for her – avenging the one blemish on her professional career, and restoring her position as the undisputed champion of the world.

It’s remarkable how there are still dissenting voices out there about women’s sport, but right across the board – in horse racing, rugby, football (gaelic and soccer), camogie, boxing, tennis and golf, and many more sports – women are making their mark and providing huge entertainment to millions of people all over the world. I have mentioned present-day world class heroes such as Katie, Rachael Blackmore, Leona Maguire, and Ciara Mageen before, as well as trail-blazers like Sonia O’Sullivan and Catherina McKiernan, and all I can say is how extraordinary it is that our little country could have produced such wonderful talent. What a pity the thugs who disgraced themselves on Thursday night in the same city where Katie did us proud wouldn’t put their excess energy into some type of positive activity, and instead of destroying their own city make a contribution that would be of

on our Dublin city streets. The socalled far-right claim it’s all about our immigration policy, but the truth is that most of those rioting in Dublin had only one goal – and that was to cause as much mayhem as they could. They couldn’t care less about immigration policy, or any other policy. A friend of mine who is in the army told me that there was a sizeable unit of specially trained officers on standby in Dublin on the night, and all I can say is they should have been called into action, as they would have sorted the thugs out in ‘jig time’. From time to time we have seen trouble on the streets of Paris, while those of us who are old enough can remember vehicles being set alight during the troubles in the North, but in my lifetime I’ve never seen anything like what happened on Thursday night anywhere in the Republic of Ireland. Minister for Justice Helen McEn-

benefit to the nation as a whole. I won’t hold my breath! As for Katie, I would hope that she would retire now and get out on top after what was probably the greatest win of her life, but of course there is no chance of that. The warrior in her will want to do it all again, and in a hugely-awaited third fight against Cameron, Katie will want to dispel any lingering doubt (if there is any) about who is the best female boxer on the planet. The debate will always go on as to who is, or was, our greatest ever sportsperson, and there are several worthy contenders. I can’t definitively say that Katie is or isn’t, but I can tell you that every time the debate comes up in any bar in the country, her name will be mentioned. For her to be in the mix at all pretty much says everything about her career. Well done, Katie. As you said afterwards, why did we ever doubt you?

tee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris need to get their act together and make sure nothing like this ever happens again. I am not on Twitter or Facebook or any of those media sites, but my friends tell me there was loads of stuff being posted that should have set alarm bells ringing. Anyway, the bells obviously didn’t ring loud enough, and our guardians of the peace were caught unawares. As they say, once bitten twice shy, so they should never be caught unawares again. As for the thugs from last Thursday night, who seem to have no regard for anything or anybody, I would say throw the book at them, take away all their privileges in prison, and leave them plenty of time in isolation to reflect on their actions. It’s over to Helen and Drew, and hopefully we will never ever see a repeat of last Thursday night’s mayhem.

Creggs celebrations Out here in Creggs on Saturday evening, the community came together at a ‘do’ in the school hall to celebrate the recent achievement in winning The Pride of Place 2023 award. Dignitaries from Galway County Council, as well as a myriad of local politicians attended the festivities, and I’m told it was a great occasion. I had been in Dublin earlier in the day, and after getting back a bit late in the evening, I watched Creggs’ second team produce some scintillating rugby in defeating Our Lady’s Boys Club in a league match on the 4G pitch. In many years of watching club rugby (firsts or seconds), I don’t remember an attacking performance like it. The great thing about it was the number of young players who were part of the performance. Despite the very cold evening, I went home with a very warm feeling. The future of Creggs RFC looks to be in good hands. Sunday afternoon saw me up in Galway, where the first team, despite what I would consider to be a patchy enough performance, proved too good for an NUIG team that – despite a very misleading 38-7 scoreline in Creggs’ favour – were quite a handful.

And finally… Congrats to Castlerea on winning the Connacht Club Intermediate football final last Saturday, by beating Monivea-Abbey on a 2-4 to 0-8 scoreline. It’s a great achievement for the club, and I imagine my good friend, Danny Burke, might have downed a pint or two on Saturday night! I spent a few very happy years working in Castlerea in my younger days and have always had a soft spot for the town and its people, so well done to Dara Bruen (manager) and everyone involved! Bring home the All-Ireland now and I might even make it down for a pint myself!

for now ’Til next week, bye

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Call for Proposals to Assist Roscommon Volunteer Centre in Developing a Strategic Plan for 2024-2030 1. Introduction

3. Key Deliverables

Roscommon Volunteer Centre (RVC) is an independent organisation affiliated to Volunteer Ireland and was established in 2020. It is a registered charity and a Company Limited by Guarantee. RVC provides a county-wide service to people who wish to volunteer some of their time to non-profit organisations, and to non-profits in sourcing volunteers to help them pursue their aims.

A finalised Strategic Plan, which should be included in the tender response: 1. Initial fortnight, scoping exercise, and reporting back on same. 2. In close consultation with RVC, conducting the strategic planning process and documenting, reporting mid-way and when nearing completion, sending a draft of the plan to RVC and its board for final consultations, and on approval of the final draft, sending the finalised plan to RVC and its board. 3. Development of a consultation process to reach a wide range of relevant stakeholders such as VIOs, other Volunteer Centres, Volunteer Ireland, volunteers, as well as organisations that engage with RVC such as Roscommon Leader Partnership, Roscommon County Council and Roscommon libraries; 5. Geographic spread and representation of external stakeholders across the following regions of Roscommon: Strokestown, Castlerea, Roscommon Town, Ballaghaderreen, Monksland, Boyle. May include streetside interviews, focus groups and/or one-to-one conversations. 6. The Plan should take into account the DRCD’s National Volunteering Strategy 2021 – 2025 and Volunteer Ireland’s latest strategic plan and should take stock of changes in volunteering trends locally, nationally and internationally.

Our Vision: to support the people of Roscommon in further enhancing its places and ways of living as flourishing, vibrant communities, with volunteering at its heart. Our Mission: to promote the value of volunteering and to increase the range and quality for the benefit of the people of County Roscommon. Our Values: Respect, Belonging, Empowerment, Courage, Transparency, Equality and Diversity, and Collaboration. RVC works with a network of other volunteer centres across Ireland to implement a robust local volunteering service which supports the actions outlined in the National Volunteering Strategy 2021-2025 of the Department of Rural and Community Development. Our aim is to support community groups and to ensure that everyone who wants to volunteer, can volunteer. We do this in a variety of ways: a) Volunteers and volunteering We promote and celebrate volunteering in Roscommon by participating in campaigns such as National Volunteering Week and hosting a local Roscommon Volunteer Awards Ceremony. We utilise I-VOL, the national volunteering database, to connect volunteers to volunteering opportunities hosted by community groups. b) Charities and not for profit organisations We support regional volunteer involving organisations (VIOs) through training, resources, advice and consultancy. We help these organisations think through their volunteering programme, identify where volunteers can be a resource, and support them in drafting and posting volunteering roles. c) Garda Vetting RVC is registered with the National Vetting Bureau and has trained staff to act as Vetting Liaison Officers to support community groups in processing their Garda Vetting applications using the e-vetting platform. d) The national volunteer network We liaise with 28 other Volunteer Centres across the country and utilise our network for information-sharing and best practice on volunteer management. e) The national volunteer network We work closely with Volunteer Ireland who provides support to all 29 regionally-based volunteer centres in areas such as branding, campaigns, policy development, and implementing programmes such as the Community Volunteers Programme.

2. Background and Methodology Roscommon Volunteer Centre works to implement the Roscommon Volunteer Centre Strategic Plan 2020 - 2023 which is due to come to an end in December 2023. We are now looking to develop a new strategy plan for 2024 – 2030. We are inviting proposals from suitably qualified individuals to help us to develop a strategic plan for the next six years. The successful candidate(s) will have relevant experience, excellent research and engagement skills, sectoral expertise, tried and tested methodologies, group facilitation skills and a willingness to challenge the status quo and assumptions. The new strategic plan will be based on a review of the current strategic plan, consultations with board and staff members and interviews with key stakeholders including the public, volunteers, volunteer involving organisations, the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and other strategic partners.

4. Duration of the Project The project should commence in early 2024 and be completed preferably by Spring 2024. In order to ensure the best possible strategic plan, we can exercise a degree of flexibility with this timeline.

5. Submission of Tenders Experienced facilitators are asked to submit a proposal that should include the following: 1. Background information with C.V.; 2. Evidence of prior experience in delivery of similar projects with particular emphasis on experience of working with the community sector; 3. Relevant references; 4. An outline of the proposed methodology; 5. Quotation in Euros and inclusive of VAT, showing a timetable with breakdown of days required to deliver the project and including all costs associated with the work such as preparation time, travel expenses and any other expenses as required. Roscommon Volunteer Centre shall not accept any responsibility for any expenses or loss, which may be incurred in the preparation of a Tender.

6. Selection Criteria Proposals will be evaluated against the following criteria: Criterion

Max. Score Available

Qualification, Relevant Experience, Track Record

30%

Methodology, Understanding of the Brief: accuracy, focus, interpretation

50%

Cost of successful project delivery and value for money

20%

Total Maximum Score Available 100% Failure to comply with the above selection criteria will result in disqualification from the tendering process.

7. Submissions Interested parties should submit a brief, fully costed proposal to deliver the work outlined above, by 5 p.m. on Friday, 15th December 2023. Please submit proposals electronically to: manager@volunteerroscommon.ie Please note that late submission of tenders will not be accepted.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

NewsPeople

NEW LOCAL HISTORY BOOK

THE ELUSIVE MRS. WALCOTT An 18th century Entrepreneur and the Rookwood Estate

Aughagad Aghagower

Athleague West District Electoral Division (D.E.D.)

ROSCOMMON CIVIL PARISH (37)

FUERTY CIVIL PARISH (36)

Corderryhugh

Creggs Village

KILBEGNET CIVIL PARISH COUNTY GALWAY (43)

(Half-Barony Ballymoe, Galway)

Lisnatea Tobberavaddy

Farranykelly

Cloonyourish

Bellanacarrow

Rocksavage Demense

Knockadangan

Mount Mary

Slievemurry

Mallyree

Attifarry

Coalpits

Gorteenclough or Corramore

Easterfield or Cornacask

Gorteenruckaun

Monsternalea or Abbeygrey

Killeroran D.E.D.

ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY GALWAY (16)

ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY ROSCOMMON (33)

Araghty

Barony Athlone

Aghrane or Castlekelly

Killeroran Parish

Toberkeagh or Blindwell Carrowreagh

Keenagh (Clanrickard) Corra Beg

Clooncannon

land Athleague Parish

town

Clooneen

Athleague Village

Athleague West District Athleague Electoral Division (D.E.D.)

Coolaspaddaun

Curraghbaghla

Knockaunarainy

Split

Cloonykelly Glebe

Rookwood or Bellagad

Ballaghdacker

Hollygrove

Barony Killyan

TISRARA CIVIL PARISH (30)

Cloonruff

Aghrane or Castlekelly

KILLERORAN CIVIL PARISH (37) Srahaunnagort or Thornfield Garreer

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ON SALE NOW AT

Newsround, Roscommon Keane’s Centra, Athleague Holmes Centra, Ballygar Strokestown Park Bookshop Charlie Byrne’s, Galway

Roscommon & East Galway history at its finest. Land agents, attorneys, ambitious farmers, stalwart businesswomen and small tenants are all seamlessly woven into this meticulously researched book.

Fundraising tractor run and auction for this weekend In aid of Special Olympics and local psychiatric unit

Award for Maura!

Pictured is Maura Dervin from Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon, who recently received an award from the Mayor of Mullingar, Cllr John Shaw, in recognition of her achievement in representing her club and country at international level in athletics. Maura has been a member of Mullingar Harriers since 1990.

Strokestown Area Senior Citizens Party

Strokestown Area Senior Citizens Party takes place at The Silver Eel, Grange, Strokestown on Friday, 8th of December, commencing with Mass at 5.30 pm. Full Christmas Dinner will follow, plus music with Gerry Keenan. Admission is free and attendees can bring a family member if you wish. Book your seat now by contacting 087 9078846 or 086 0596004. This promises to be a great night!

Loughglynn Senior Citizens annual Christmas Party

Loughglynn Senior Citizens annual Christmas Party will take place in Creaton’s Lounge, Loughglynn on Sunday, 17th of December at 1 pm. The committee extends a warm welcome to all our senior citizens. A hot meal will be served, followed by live music, dancing and entertainment. Please leave your name with Katie in Creaton’s or Tina in The Village Inn if you can join us for the party. Alternatively you can contact Una on 086 8526805 or Mamie on 087 7857285.

Annual Ballinaheglish Christmas Party

The annual Ballinaheglish Christmas Party will take place in McDermott’s Lounge on Sunday, 10th of December. Dinner will be at 7 pm followed by music at 9 pm with Bill Haugh. There will also be lots of spot prizes and a raffle. The organising committee would love to see a good turnout on the night.

A weekend of fundraising for the Psychiatric Unit at Roscommon Hospital and Roscommon Special Olympics will be held in Glenamaddy on December 2nd and 3rd, with a charity auction and a tractor and truck run set to take place in memory of the late Sean Donelon. Roscommon Special Olympics team members

meet twice a week for Bowling Club and Swimming Lessons on Tuesdays and Thursdays – the funds being raised at this upcoming event are to help keep that going. They will also be used for an Indoor Gym and Games Room in the Psychiatric Ward in Roscommon Hospital. The upcoming charity fundraising auction will be held in Divilly’s Bar, Glenamaddy, on Saturday, December 2nd, at 8.30 pm. Entry is free and music will

be provided by the popular Danny Byrne Band. To donate items for auction, contact Claire on 086 0720533 or Kate on 087 6921355. Then on Sunday, December 3rd, there will be a charity tractor and truck run. Registration will be in Glenamaddy Equestrian Centre from 10 am-11.45 am, with roll-out at 12 noon sharp. There is a €20 entry fee per truck or tractor. Be sure to come along on December 2nd and 3rd, and show your support!

Athleague Community Centre Christmas Draw tickets on sale

Tickets are now on sale for the upcoming Christmas Draw for Athleague Community Centre, with over €2,000 in prizes. Tickets are just €5 each or €10 for 3. First prize is €1,000, sponsored by Ross Engineering (Fergus Naughton). Second prize is €500, sponsored by Hamrock’s Bar & The Bridge House. Third prize is a €250 hamper, sponsored by Keane’s Centra. Fourth prize is a €250 voucher, sponsored by Town & Country Interiors. Fifth prize is €100, sponsored by Paddy & Mary Purcell. The draw will take place at Athleague

Bingo on Tuesday, 19th of December. Tickets are on sale at Weekly Bingo, Centra Athleague, Conlon’s Chemist, Jones XL Filling Station, Les Petites Tartres, E-Clips Hair Studio, Town & Country, The Bridge House, Hamrock’s, & Connaughton Auctioneers. Local teams will be selling throughout the village over the coming weekends. Your support would be appreciated. If you would like to support the draw you can also call Shirley on 087-4903667 or email athleaguecommunitycentre@gmail. com.

Christmas Craft and Food Fair

Castlerea Enterprise Hub will once again host the annual Christmas Craft and Food Fair, on Sunday, December 3rd, 2023. This year, craft and food producers are coming from all over Roscommon and the neighbouring counties to showcase their wares. Come along to the Food and Craft Fair any time be-

tween 10 am and 4 pm on the day and browse through the 70+ stands. There will be paintings and photographs, knitwear and jewellery, ceramics and sculptures, candles and soaps. You can purchase or order your Christmas Wreaths or handmade decorations. There will be hot food and lots of baked goods avail-

able to have with your coffee. The Christmas Craft and Food Fair is also a fundraiser, with all money raised going to the future development of the Hub. So please call down to The Hub (eircode: F45AC96) on Sunday, December 3rd, and keep your local business in business. Entry is free!

ATHLEAGUE BINGO – NEXT BINGO – TUESDAY 05 Dec. at 8.30pm Eircode: F42 P440

Jackpot €2,200 (on 47 numbers) BOYLE CONCERNED LOCALS ARE HOLDING A

MEETING

Friday, 1st December at 8pm in St. Joseph’s Hall SEE DETAILS ON FACEBOOK PAGE Roscommon SPCA annual Church Gate collections Roscommon SPCA will hold their annual Church Gate collections over coming weekends (as follows): On the 2nd and 3rd of December a collection will be held at St Joseph’s Church, Boyle. On the 9th and 10th of December a collection will be held at St Croan’S Church, Ballymoe.

Business

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Pharmacy Technicians from Roscommon were amongst the recent graduates at the Irish Pharmacy Union’s Pharmacy Technicians Graduation 2023 which took place in the RDS, Dublin. Pictured, left to right, are: Dermot Twomey (President, IPU), Jackie Halvey of Tully’s totalhealth Pharmacy in Castlerea, Leeanne Smyth of McGuinness’ totalhealth Pharmacy in Roscommon, and Derek Reilly (Acting Secretary-General, IPU).

Pharmacy Technicians from Roscommon were amongst the recent graduates at the Irish Pharmacy Unions Pharmacy Technicians Graduation 2023 which took place in the RDS, Dublin. Pictured, left to right, are: Dermot Twomey (President, IPU) with Maeve Beirne, Elphin Pharmacy, Co. Roscommon and Derek Reilly (Acting Secretary-General, IPU).

Bullying and racism prevail in workplaces – study Disparaging remarks, verbal abuse, exclusion from work gatherings all problematic 38% of workers in Ireland believe bullying in the workplace is an issue, a new survey by Matrix Recruitment has found. The 2023 Workplace Equality Survey found that almost three in four workers have witnessed or been the victim of bullying at work. Of those, 39% said they were bullied directly.

Now in its sixth year, the survey of more than 1,400 adults covers a wide range of workplace issues including workplace bullying, discrimination and racism. Bullying In terms of the types of bullying or harassment that was reported, almost half (45%) said it involved openly harsh criticism in front of work colleagues and a third said it involved being blamed for something without justification. Other forms identified by respondents were: Disparaging remarks made about appearance, race, sexual orientation, and/or gender (29%); Extra work piled on to create stress (27%); Ex-

clusion from work gatherings (25%); Verbal abuse including profane, threatening or disrespectful language (23%). Of those who witnessed or were the victim of bullying, more than half (56%) said that the bullying took place in a physical workplace setting, while one in five experienced bullying in a virtual work setting. Asked if they had ever report discrimination, bullying or harassment at work, over half (59%) of respondents said they had. Of those, a third of respondents (32%) felt that the issue was not dealt with promptly, seriously, and discreetly enough by their workplace. Racism The Matrix Recruitment 2023 Workplace Equality Survey also found that almost two-thirds of employees in Ireland (63%) believe racism is a problem in the workforce here. On top of this, nearly half of workers in Ireland (46%) perceive that ethnic minorities have fewer promotional opportunities than their colleagues. The majority of respondents (80%) said their employer advocates for diversity, equality and inclusion in their workplace and most respondents (89%) believe that employers have a responsibility to their staff to offer training on issues relating to equality and discrimination. However, there is a slight disparity between intention and execution, with 63% of Irish workers reporting to have had training in this area.

ATU Innovation Hub (Galway) wins Sustainability Award

Pictured at the presentation of the award were: Turlough Rafferty, Operations Manager, ATU iHub; Eveanna Ryan, President, Galway Chamber; George McCourt, Head of Innovation & Enterprise, ATU.

The Atlantic Technological University’s (ATU) Innovation Hub (iHub) Galway was the winner of the Sustainability Initiative Award at the Galway Chamber Business awards recently, sponsored by the Shannon Airport Group. ATU is committed to sustainable development. As part of their strategic plan they’ve implemented a number of sustainability measures in their new extended iHub, which includes energy-efficient LED lighting, low carbon producing condensing boilers, installation of a large solar array on iHub roof (which generated over four thousand kilowatt hours of renewable energy in 2022), two EV charging stations, and six nest boxes for critically endangered Swift integrated into the rear of the new building.

Over 20 tourism businesses from Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands were given the opportunity to promote their offerings to 22 Irish-based tour operators at a Fáilte Ireland workshop in the Tullamore Court Hotel last week as part of Fáilte Ireland’s business-to-business (B2B) roadshow ahead of the 2024 season. Pictures: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fáilte Ireland showcases Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands to tour operators Over 20 tourism businesses from Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands were given the opportunity to promote their offerings to 22 Irish-based tour operators at a Fáilte Ireland workshop in the Tullamore Court Hotel last week as part of Fáilte Ireland’s businessto-business (B2B) roadshow ahead of the 2024 season. The tour operators also visited some of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands most iconic attractions, including the Tullamore Dew Distillery and Birr Castle Demesne. Irish-based incoming tour operators play a vital

role in delivering increasing international visitor numbers, contributing valuable export earnings into the national economy, and sustaining jobs in all regions across the country. Director of Demand Development with Fáilte Ireland Niall Treacy said: “We are grateful that so many Irish-based tour operators took the time to meet tourism businesses across our four regional experience brands. 2023 has been yet another good year for Irish-based tour operators, with international visitor number and spend with Irish tourism businesses continuing to grow”.

#Roscommon Together Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

€1,000

TEN €100 * VOUCHERS to be won by ten lucky readers!

Roscommon Chamber & Roscommon People

VOUCHER COMPETITION ENTRY FORM Find the Roscommon Chamber Crest The crest appeared in following advertisements:

Week One 1: ___________________________________________ 2: ___________________________________________

Courtesy of the Roscommon People & Roscommon Chamber of Commerce

Week Two 1: ___________________________________________ 2: ___________________________________________

How to enter

The #RoscommonTogether promotion will be published in the Roscommon People between now and Christmas. That’s four issues, including this one! Each week of the campaign we’ll ‘hide’ the Roscommon Chamber crest in TWO of the advertisements published as part of the #RoscommonTogether promotion.

Find the Crest

To enter, name all eight advertisements in which the Chamber crest is ‘hidden’ – that’s two each week. Only submit your entry after Week 4 of the campaign (Roscommon People issue dated December 22nd, 2023). Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher competition’ by 2 pm on Thursday, December 21st, 2023. Please make sure to include your name, address and contact number – and all eight answers (see entry coupon)! Entries by post or hand to the Roscommon People, People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. We will accept entries by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie * Ten winners will be selected, with each winner receiving a €100 voucher

Week Three 1: ___________________________________________ 2: ___________________________________________ Week Four 1: ___________________________________________ 2: ___________________________________________

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Members of the Cunniffe and Hanley families pictured at the turning on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon town on Sunday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Katie a finalist in ‘Ireland’s Best Dressed Debutante’ DEBSireland.COM is delighted to announce the successful hosting of ‘Ireland’s Best Dressed Debutante Final 2023’ which took place on November 15th at Slane Castle. This week, Fiona Long from Carlow was revealed to be the winner. Throughout the debs sea-

son, DEBSireland.COM organised a competition to find Ireland’s Best Dressed Debutante 2023. At each debs event, two debutantes were selected as ‘Best Dressed,’ with their photos added to the website www. debsireland.com/bestdressed for public voting. This year, the response

Lisnamult Annual Christmas Raffle

The Lisnamult Residents and Tenants Annual Christmas Raffle will take place on Tuesday, 19th of December. Great prizes up for grabs. Book of 3 tickets is only €5. A sincere thanks to all the local businesses for their continued support with sponsoring prizes. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please call 0906626152 or Anthony on 087 2125684 or Una on 086 8033503. Your support is greatly appreciated. Prizes range from a €500 voucher (first prize) to multiple further prizes of vouchers/cash to values ranging from €200 to €100.

was phenomenal, with over 130,000 views and a collective 100,000 votes for the top 10 on the ‘Best Dressed’ page. Katie Heneghan, who won Best Dressed at the Convent of Mercy (Roscommon) Debs, was one of the 10 students to make it to the final. On the day of the photoshoot, the 10 finalists were looked after by the incredible glam team consisting of renowned make-up artist and influencer Emma Kearney, skilled hair stylist Amy Donoghue, and a representative from The Grafton Barbers, ensuring each debutante looked their absolute best. This year’s winner, Fiona Long, will receive an unforgettable holiday for two to New York along with an exciting modelling contract with Assets Model Agency.

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Roscommon ICA’s final 2023 meeting Roscommon Town ICA Guild will hold their final meeting of 2023 on Tuesday, December 5th, at 8 pm in Hannon’s Hotel. New members, as always, are welcome. Best wishes to all for Christmas and for the New Year.

Katie Heneghan

Co. Roscommon Ploughing Association

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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Members of Concannon family from Roscommon pictured at the turning on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon town on Sunday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

‘We have one of the best towns in the west of Ireland’ ALANNAH ITA HEALY reports on a festive journey into the heart of Ballaghaderreen

With the much-anticipated switchingon of the Christmas lights set to take place this Sunday, the Roscommon People travelled to Ballaghaderreen this week to get a sense of the festive spirit building in the town ahead of this year’s holidays. Our visit began in the landmark Towey’s Spar Express, where we spoke with owner Pat Towey, and with staff member Anita Nicholas. Under the tree at Towey’s Spar, the holiday ambience is already evident, with the shop very nicely done up for the festive season with garlands and other Christmas decorations. Speaking to Pat and Anita about what it’s like in Ballaghaderreen at Christmas, the idea of the holidays being a time of homecomings was immediately emphasised as a significant factor in enhancing the town’s atmosphere at this time of year. “It makes for a great Christmas vibe when you see people that have been away coming back and spending time with their families and loved ones”, said Pat. “It’s important to have the diaspora coming back. People do make the effort and it’s good to see them return. It’s very important”. Anita seconded this sentiment, adding that for her, part of what makes Christmas in Ballaghaderreen so special is the fact that it’s her home town: “I live local, I work local, and so it’s nice to see the people come back to Ballaghaderreen”, she said. Pat also highlighted the importance of reaching out during the holiday season, saying, “Christmas can be a very lonely time for some as well, and a simple gesture like saying ‘Hello’ and ‘Happy Christmas’ can go a long way to feeling like you are part of Christmas”.

A Christmas treat at Edmonstown House Additionally, Pat Towey spoke to us about all the different groups and people holding events across the area to mark the festive season, from carol services and charity events to concerts and plays. One such event is a theatre production which is taking place over 8-10th of December, and so after we finished up in Towey’s Spar, we travelled over to Edmonstown House (also commonly referred to as Bishop’s Palace), where preparations were underway for their upcoming production of Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’. The three-person play, which is set on Christmas Eve, is being directed by

Tony award-winning David Grindley, and stars the very talented cast of actor/playwright Genevieve Hulme Beaman, Denis Conway of ‘Brooklyn’ and ‘Michael Collins’, and Killian Filan of ‘Normal People’. We had a chance to sit down with the director and cast, who, among other thing, had glowing comments to make about Ballaghaderreen’s Edmonstown House as the setting for the eagerly anticipated festive production. David Ewings, who runs Edmonstown House with his wife Chloe, spoke to us about how great it was to have such a calibre of talent performing a show locally. (To read more about Edmonstown House and the upcoming production of ‘Dublin Carol’, see overleaf.) After finishing up our conversations with everyone at Edmonstown House, we thanked Mr Grindley and let him and the cast get back to their preparations, while we travelled back across town and over to Duffy’s SuperValu. There, we spoke to Lorna Duffy about how the store is preparing for the holiday season.

Local traders “We are very much looking forward to Christmas here at Duffy’s”, Lorna said. “We feel lucky to be working in the shop as we get to see lots of friends and families who return home for Christmas. With the arrival of our Christmas trees this week, the mayhem will truly begin!”. Lorna also spoke about the exciting atmosphere building in Ballaghaderreen ahead of the various festive events taking place: “There is a real buzz around town this Christmas, with the Ballaghaderreen Players kicking off the season on the first weekend of December, touring their show ‘Big Maggie’ in Westport. Then we hope to go to the turning on of the lights at the square, St Nathy’s’ carol singing, Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ at Edmonstown House, and Bingo Loco in The Brusna Inn, to name a few events. I think when it’s all over, I’ll go for a nice relaxing sauna at Errit Lake – and a cold dip!”. After our call to Duffy’s, we checked out the town centre, where there is already evidence of the mammoth effort that has been put in over the last number of weeks by local volunteers on the lights committee. In addition to the lanterns and strings of fairy lights draped along the streets, the town Christmas tree is to be found standing in the centre of the square, ready for the official switch-on this weekend, which will see Santa Claus himself visit to do the honours.

The structure in Ballaghaderreen town square, which will represent the Christmas tree, will be all lit up on Sunday, December 3rd. Pic: Kieran Croghan

The effort put in by local volunteers ahead of the big switch-on is something that has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated by the town’s residents. Speaking to Imelda Towey of M Towey’s (newsagents), this was something she made sure to give specific mention to, commending and thanking the volunteers “for all the great, hard work they do”. While there, we also spoke to Imelda about Ballaghaderreen town itself and the festive spirit that builds within the community at this time of year. “We have one of the best towns in the west of Ireland”, she told us. “Ballaghaderreen has everything you’re looking for”. Imelda spoke about all the things that

the town has going for it, commenting that the community boasts “excellent employment” and adding that this time of the year really exemplifies how the town has been able to successfully regain a sense of busyness “after the pandemic”. The atmosphere in Ballaghaderreen was something she highlighted as well, describing the “real excitement” building in the community, and the sense of “peace and quiet” the town experiences around the holiday season. While popping into local businesses in the town centre to get a further sense of this building excitement, we made sure to call into JJ Egan Jewellers to speak to Aidan Egan of the Ballaghaderreen

Christmas Lights Committee. In addition to the increased traffic his own business experiences over the Christmas period, Aidan has spent recent weeks working with the rest of the committee to ensure that the town lights are up and looking well in time for this weekend. He spoke of the dedicated volunteer crew who, yet again this year, have put in hours and hours of their free time over countless wet and dark evenings to make sure that the town is ready for the holidays. “It really adds to the atmosphere (to have the lights up)”, he said, encouraging everyone to come along to the big switch-on at 6 pm this Sunday.

Shane and Brian Mulligan of Mulligan’s Furniture Store (Brian Mulligan & Co) in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Ozanam Day Care Centre During our visit, we also got in touch with Mary Quinn of the Ozanam Day Care Centre in Ballaghaderreen. The charity group is a prime example of how the Christmas spirit of giving and of coming together is valued in Ballaghaderreen, with the group holding several festive events this year in addition to the usual services they provide for the community. Looking out for the elderly, those dealing with isolation, and anyone in need in the community, forms the key component of the Day Centre’s objectives, with a number of services such as laundry facilities, a meals-on-wheels service, and community events among the many positive things the centre provides in Ballaghaderreen. And this spirit of giving and bringing together is only being further prioritised as we move into the holiday season, with one key example being the big Christmas Party set for December 21st, which will see a Dinner being provided, as well as a visit from Santa and gift-giving, followed afterwards with some music.

Festive displays One of the last stops on our visit was Mulligan’s furniture, homeware, and giftware store (Brian Mulligan & Co), where we spoke to father-son duo Brian and Shane. Even before entering the store, which was decked out in Christmas decorations and wares throughout, you could get a taste of the festive spirit just by looking at the beautiful, intricate holiday displays set up in the store windows. Brian and Shane spoke about how busy the Christmas period always is in the store, with the push to start selling decorations, etc. beginning before Halloween is even over. The store remains open right up until Christmas Eve, as “you inevitably get the few people in panic buying” for last-minute gifts. Like many of their fellow residents, the festive spirit and atmosphere that the town experiences each year was a particular focus for the Mulligans when talking about Christmas in Ballaghaderreen. “You’d notice over the last couple of weeks that there’s more people around”, said Brian. “It’s definitely getting busier”. Once again, local appreciation for the lights committee was expressed, with Brian and Shane commenting how it was “so good to see the Christmas lights going up” over the past couple

Wishing all our customers, staff and neighbours a very Happy Christmas from all in

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Imelda Towey, of Towey’s Shop on Main Street in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

of weeks, and that it helps “generate a buzz” and excitement for the holiday season. They also gave mention to the various festive events set to take place locally over the coming weeks, including the annual Ronan Regan Memorial Tractor Run, as part of the Ballaghaderreen Christmas Cracker Weekend in December. After finishing up our conversation in Mulligan’s, we rounded off our visit at The Fiddlers Elbow, where we enjoyed a tasty bite to eat before heading back to Roscommon town. Heading out of Ballaghaderreen as the sun began to set on the town square, it was easy to imagine the place all lit up with lights come Sunday evening, or thronged with people come the town’s Christmas Cracker weekend. The sense of anticipation for the upcoming holidays, and appreciation locally for the buzz the season adds to the town, was palpable from every resident we spoke to. What was perhaps even more striking however, was the deep local appreciation for certain community-based aspects of Christmas: the idea of loved ones returning home, the idea of bringing people together with festive events, the idea of making small gestures and hosting community gatherings specifically to make sure no one feels isolated or alone during the holidays. Even little things like the scale of the appreciation for the local lights committee was testament to a theme that rang true with every person we met: that community, coming together, and the people around us is what makes the Christmas period so enjoyable – both in Ballaghaderreen and beyond.

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Pat Towey, proprietor of Towey’s Spar Express in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Wishing all my customers a Happy Christmas & New Year

Neuromuscular Therapy by Elizabeth Cummins A wonderful Christmas display in the window of Mulligan’s Furniture Store (Brian Mulligan & Co) on Main Street in Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

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Pictured is Killian Filan, who is playing Mark in next week’s production of Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ in Edmonstown House.

Pictured is David Grindley, who is directing the upcoming production of Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ in Edmonstown House next week.

Pictured is Denis Conway, who is playing John in next week’s production of Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ in Edmonstown House.

‘Dublin Carol’ at Edmonstown House features top talent < ALANNAH ITA HEALY

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Phone: (094) 986 2599

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Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ comes to Edmonstown House, Ballaghaderreen (at 7.30 pm) from December 8th, 9th, and 10th, with some top talent involved in presenting this production across the three-night run. Directed by Olivier and Tony award-winner David Grindley, McPherson’s haunting tale of loss and redemption is set on Christmas Eve, when a Dublin undertaker is visited by his estranged daughter, who urges him to confront his past. Fresh from starring in Martin McDonagh’s ‘Hangmen’ at the Gaiety, Denis Conway will play the lead role of undertaker John Plunkett. Conway’s recent work includes the Netflix series ‘Bodkin’, and starring alongside A-lister Danny DeVito in ‘A Sudden Case of Christmas’. He has previously starred in acclaimed films like ‘Brooklyn’ and ‘Michael Collins’. Also in the cast is Sligo native Killian Filan, who, in addition to his other credits on screen and stage, is perhaps best known for playing Jack in the immensely popular RTÉ series ‘Normal People’. In this production in Edmonstown House, Filan plays the role of Plunkett’s young apprentice, Mark. No stranger to stage and screen both in Ireland and the UK is the cast’s third member, Genevieve Hulme-Beaman. Not only does HulmeBeaman’s career include impressive acting credits, she is also an accomplished playwright, with her debut play ‘Pondling’ winning an Edinburgh Fringe First Award and the Stewart Parker Award. In the upcoming production in Ballaghaderreen, she plays Mary, John’s estranged daughter.

Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, David Ewings of Edmonstown House, who organised the upcoming production, spoke about what prompted him to want to stage the play in the first place: “I’ve always wanted to do a Conor McPherson play”, he said, “I think he’s probably the best contemporary Irish playwright out there”. He spoke about how all the parts came together and how everyone got involved, emphasising the calibre of the talent behind the upcoming production: “We’ve got a superb cast and director, extremely well regarded, and really it’s amazing to have an event like this happening in Ballaghaderreen”. The play will take place in the Dining Room in Edmonstown House, which is being set up as an intimate theatre space ahead of the show’s run. The decision to stage the production without creating a big set, predominantly using what’s already in the house and with minimal outside props being brought in, is something director David Grindley described as having an intentionality behind it. Speaking to the Roscommon People, he said, “What I wanted to do, and what I hope the audience is able to really buy into, is this sense that the story is emerging from the house itself, as if these characters are really people existing in this space… that the story is unfolding and we’re just getting caught up in it”. His sentiments were shared by lead actor Denis Conway, who told the Roscommon People this week, “I think this (production) is really important because I think theatre needs to find itself again. This is the type of thing people used to do, it goes back to our storytelling days. And that’s what’s special and important about this (produc-

tion), it’s just the actor and the words”. He described the play itself as “dark, but funny” and “beautifully written”. There is a limited amount of remaining tickets available, so to book your seat now, visit buytickets.at/edmondstownhouse/1040448. Dinner will also be available in Edmonstown House across all three days, with the option of dining before or after the production. Tickets cost just €20 per person, with an additional cost of €55 if opting for Dinner. For more information and to keep up to date with any future events, find Edmonstown House on Instagram and Facebook.

Pictured is Genevieve Hulme-Beaman, who is playing Mary in next week’s production of Conor McPherson’s ‘Dublin Carol’ in Edmonstown House.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

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Martin’s Drycleaners and Launderette 4 New Street, Ballaghaderreen Tel. (094) 9877741 E. martinsdrycleaners@gmail.com www.facebook.com/martinsdrycleaners

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Thank you for your support in 2023 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Cllr. Michael MULLIGAN

& Family

The Square, Ballaghaderreen Contact me on (087) 7799781 Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

CONNOLLY CARPETS & FLOORING Pound Street, Ballaghaderreen

Telephone: 087 1366482

Supply and installation of Carpets,Vinyl, Laminates, LVT and Wood Flooring l

Domestic l Commercial

MASSIVE RANGE TO CHOOSE FROM Available for collection or delivery in 2/3 days

Edmondstown House in Ballaghaderreen is the unique location for an intimate performance of the Conor McPherson play ‘Dublin Carol’ which will take place on the 8th, 9th and 10th of December. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Call-out service also available Contact us and we will call out with samples

Over 40 years fitting experience in the trade

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

JOHN HENRY Lung Autos Motor Repairs • NCT Preparation • DOE Testing • Diagnostics Specialists

Lung, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel: 094 98 60801 Mobile: 087 2968746

KELLY T.V. AND ELECTRICAL

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel.: 094 98 62233 • 094 98 62222

KEEPING YOU IN THE PICTURE ALL YEAR ROUND Sales & Service 6 days a week

Over 50 years experience in the business Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas & New Year

SHOP LOCAL

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year

SUPPORT LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

CLAIRE KERRANE TD WORKING HARD FOR YOU

 claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie  Main Street, Ballaghaderreen  094 9861688  Bridge Street, Ballinasloe  090 9644901

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Festive greetings from Please support local SMEs and shop local this Christmas

Ballaghaderreen

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year

molloys

lifestyle pharmacies & health stores

< ALANNAH ITA HEALY

Ballaghaderreen

Telephone 094 987 7520 Phillips Garage Phone Derek Phillips 087 9796767 Crenane Wishing all our customers a very Ballaghaderreen Happy Christmas and New Year & Co. Roscommon thank you for your support in 2023

For all your servicing requirements l Timing Belt Replacement l Electric Diagnostics l Clutch Replacement l Headlight Alignment All NCT & DOE work carried out Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

McHUGH’S WHOLESALE Main Street, Ballaghaderreen

Tel. 094 98 60092 Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

Morelli’s Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

(094) 98 77933

OPENING HOURS:

7 Days a week Mon-Sun: 12.00pm - Late • CALL AND COLLECT • FAST FOOD ALWAYS FRESH Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year & thank you for your support in 2023

Live music from December 24th December 31st l

The Hatch Bar

Don’t miss Ballaghaderreen Christmas Cracker Weekend

Ballaghaderreen T: 089 485 4897

#seeyouthisweekendatthehatch

A ‘cracker’ of a weekend is set to take place in Ballaghaderreen from December 15th to 17th inclusive, when the town will be treated to a ‘Christmas Cracker Weekend’, organised by the Ballaghaderreen GAA Club. The fun begins on Friday, December 15th, when the Danny Byrne band perform at The Brusna Inn. From a few miles outside of Newry, the three-man band is known for their highenergy modern folk music, and currently travel the UK and Ireland regularly to perform. Their performance kicks off at 9 pm, and the band will be followed by a DJ on the night, who will play until late. Tickets are on sale for just €20 online at bit.ly/46m3cen, in The Brusna Inn, or directly from any of the committee members. Following on from the music on Friday, the next evening, Saturday, December 16th, will see another exciting night take place at The Brusna Inn, with the Brusna Bingo Bonanza kicking off at 8 pm. Described as the “ultimate

Christmas party night”, the event sets out to provide attendees with the opportunity to have fun and dance the night away at your table, all as you mark your bingo card off! The tickets for this event are limited, so be sure to book in advance to secure your attendance. The event is also strictly Over-18s only. Tickets are on sale now for €25 at bit. ly/47GG37s, in The Brusna Inn, or directly from any committee member. The final event taking place as part of the Ballaghaderreen Christmas Cracker Weekend this year is the Ronan Regan Memorial Tractor Run, being held on Sunday, December 17th. The run will start at 1 pm, with a cost of €20 per entry. Registration will take place on the day, with tractors, bikes, vintage vehicles, and trucks all welcome. Also, at 5.30 pm, a children’s tractor run will take place, during which the local kids get a chance to share in the fun and take to the streets in their bikes, trikes, etc. Proceeds from the Friday and Saturday event will go towards Ballaghaderreen GAA Club, but the money raised on the Sunday will

A beautiful winter sunset over Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Kieran Croghan

also go towards Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, the children’s cancer charity. Speaking to the Roscommon People this week, David McHugh of Ballaghaderreen GAA Club said that it promises to be a “lively” weekend. The tractor run in Ballaghaderreen has become an annual event for the town ever since the first one took place to great success in December 2021. The event was renamed ‘Ronan

Regan Memorial Run’ last year following the passing of local man Ronan Regan shortly after the first run, with the recipient charity being chosen by Ronan’s family. “But this is the first time the other events are happening”, said David. “We thought we would do something different, something to bring a bit of life to the weekend and to the town around Christmas. “Hopefully, there will be a

good amount of people who want to come out and show support. It should be a great weekend”. Finally, on behalf of the GAA club, David wished to express a big thanks to Kathleen Horan and all at The Brusna Inn for accommodating the club and for helping to make sure the events go ahead smoothly. For more information and to keep up with updates, find the Ballaghaderreen GAA Club on Facebook.

Wanted: Proposals on how to spend €432,000… for benefit of Ballaghaderreen Members of the public in the Ballaghaderreen area are being urged to have their say on how €432,000 in funding – raised in the past for a public swimming pool project which will now not proceed in the town – should be used for the benefit of the area going forward. The ‘Ballaghaderreen Pool Fund’ held its AGM on Monday night, November 13th in the Community Park, where former committee members stepped down and were replaced by a new committee. The retiring committee were thanked for its tireless efforts and dedication. An important acknowledgement was also made

to the late Brian Kelly, who was involved in the Swimming Pool Fund from the very beginning and who was key to raising the funds and making the investments that have led to the substantial fund available, currently at a total of €432,216. Members of the public in the Ballaghaderreen area are now being urged to attend upcoming public meetings (dates not yet set) to discuss how to invest this €432,000 in funding. The new committee says it now has the “exciting prospect” of finding ways to invest the large amount of money in an amenity or

worthy charitable investment that will serve the entire community. The new chairperson of the committee, Gary Conway, said: “We will have to have public meetings to decide what to do with the money, but people need to come… we have to get the numbers at these meetings up. This has to be a ‘whole town’ decision. This is a good news story. We’re starting with €432,000. Other small towns have created wonderful things for their towns, we can do that too”. The newly-formed committee is seeking ideas from local residents on how to use the substantial sum of money, which was originally

raised to build a public swimming pool in the town. Following ongoing discussions with local and national government for over ten years, it has been decided that the original project will not now go ahead. This, the committee says, is “due to the high costs associated with both building a pool and the yearly running costs”. There had been attempts to use the funding to buy or lease the pool block located in the EROC Centre (formerly the Abbeyfield Hotel) in the town, but the committee says “unfortunately these efforts were unsuccessful”.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

NewsPeople

Return of ‘The Rambling House’ ALONE event in Ballintubber A Rambling House-type gathering – aptly called ‘The Rambling House’ – will be held in Ballintubber on Sunday, 10th of December next. This unique community event is the brainchild of Cllr Anthony Waldron and has the full backing of renowned charity ALONE, which caters for people who are living in isolation and/or experiencing loneliness. The ‘Rambling House’ event will feature an Ecumenical Prayer Service, followed by all the traditions associated with Ireland’s famous rambling houses of bygone years – including music, storytelling, and craic. There will also be a serious, supportive aspect to proceedings, with representatives from ALONE addressing attendees to outline the services and supports that are available locally. The day’s activities will begin with an Ecumenical Prayer Service which will be held at 2 pm in St.

The Rambling House The Rambling House was a traditional place in Ireland, where locals entertained with stories, song and dance, long before modern technology came along

Vincent Pierce

Gerard Burke

Bride’s Church, Ballintubber. This will be followed by the ‘Rambling House’ event in Garvey’s Bar in Ballintubber (from 3 pm), featuring local musicians and storytellers. All are welcome. Amongst the special guests will be local man Gerard Burke – who has been trending on social media in the pre-publicity for this event – and renowned seanchaí, Vincent Pierse. A number of other guest musicians and singers will also perform. Born in North Kerry, Vincent Pierse inherited his gift of telling stories and yarns from storytellers of his locality. He grew up listening to stories made famous

by characters like the late, great seanchaí Eamon Kelly. A renowned storyteller himself, Vincent has performed at festivals all over Ireland, the UK, in the US and Canada. He has hosted his own show on Shannonside Northern Sound (called the ‘Open Door’). He is a member of the South Roscommon Singers Circle where is regularly spins yarns to attentive audiences. Cllr Waldron noted that ALONE founder Willie Bermingham’s wife, Mary (Marie) Kelly, was a native of Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, meaning the area has a proud link with the highly respected charity.

Please join us on Sunday 10th December, 2023 2pm: Ecumenical Prayer in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber 3pm onwards: Our Rambling House in Garvey’s Pub, Ballintubber

In partnerships with the following sponsors

Bring a story, a song or your dancing shoes. All are very welcome!

newsbriefs

Christmas events in Ballintubber on Sunday

Roscommon Garden Club Gala Night

Ballintubber is once again lighting a Christmas tree for ‘Shine a Light for Hospice’ in the grounds of St Bride’s Church, Ballintubber. ‘Shine A Light’ cards (for Mayo/Roscommon Hospice) can be purchased from Joan Healy on 086 3175801, Marie Finan on 087 9402036, Eileen Kenny on 087 2308895, in the local Post Office and Kenny’s shop. The lighting of the tree will take place on this Sunday evening, 3rd of December at 5 pm. All are welcome. The Christmas lights will also be switched on. There will be carol singing, and a visit by Santa! Santa will have treats for all the children, and there will be complimentary teas and festive bites in Kenny’s, followed by the Development Association’s Sustainable Living draw.

Upcoming fundraisers For St Ronan’s Hall

At a recent meeting of St Ronan’s Hall fundraising committee, it was decided to organise two fundraisers in order to match funding for the ‘Community Centres Grant’ to insulate, rewire, and build a porch/foyer at front of hall. It was decided to have a Carol Service at the erection of the crib at O’Carolan Heritage Park at 3.30 pm on the 3rd of December, followed by a cake sale, raffle, visit by Santa Claus, and children’s disco in St Ronan’s Hall. Tea and coffee will be served. Also, the annual 5k Fun Run/Walk will be held at 12.30 pm on New Year’s Day (January 1st 2024) with registration starting at noon. All support greatly appreciated.

Christmas Carols at St Coman’s Church of Ireland Christmas Carols with the Athlone Choral Society and Special Guest Daren Lane will be presented in St Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon Town on Sunday, 3rd of December at 6 pm. Donations at the door, if desired.

Pictured at Monday night’s Fine Gael Selection Convention for Boyle Municipal District (held in An Bóthar Rua, Elphin) were the two candidates chosen on the night, Cllr. Liam Callaghan and Dympna Daly-Finn.

Pictured at last week’s Fine Gael Selection Convention for Roscommon Municipal District (held in Kilbride Community Centre) were newly-selected candidates Gareth Scahill and Robbie McConn, with Senator Aisling Dolan.

Fine Gael unveils new candidates

Fine Gael held two Selection Conventions over the past week as preparations continue for next year’s local elections. As highlighted in last week’s Roscommon People, the party has chosen new candidates Gareth Scahill and Robbie McConn to run in Roscommon Municipal District, while another new candidate, Dympna Daly-Finn, has been chosen to run in Boyle, alongside sitting councillor Liam Callaghan. The Athlone convention will follow at a later date. The Roscommon convention was held in Kilbride Community Centre last Thursday night, with the Boyle convention being held in Elphin on Monday evening. Welcoming Ms. Daly-Finn on to the ticket, sitting councillor Liam Callaghan said that the Boyle convention was attended by 60 delegates and chaired by Sligo Fine Gael activist Gerry McGunn. The convention in Kilbride, which was also very well attended, was chaired by Longford Senator Micheál Carrigy. Fine Gael Roscommon-Galway Senator Aisling Dolan congratulated the four candidates this week. Senator Dolan said: “Congratulations to Robbie McConn and Gareth Scahill who are putting their names forward to represent communities in Ro-

scommon and Castlerea. There was a lot of excitement with family and friends present in Kilbride Community Centre. “Both Robbie and Gareth are extremely active in their local communities and I know their focus is on funding and investment for local clubs and community groups. I look forward to working with them on key projects in Roscommon town and Castlerea”. Also congratulating the two candidates selected in the Boyle area, Senator Dolan said Cllr. Callaghan has a lot of experience of representing his region on Roscommon County Council and a track record of working with local groups to secure funding for projects. “Dympna is a new candidate from Arigna with lots of enthusiasm and a vision of all she would like to achieve for communities in North Roscommon. She has a background in healthcare and takes an active role as a parent in her local school’s board of management. “All of these candidates want more for their local communities, and that voices in towns across Roscommon are heard at local government level. It is great to see new people coming forward to be public representatives. We have a strong team to go forward for the local elections in 2024!”

Roscommon Garden Club will hosts its Gala Night on Thursday, 7th of December at 8 pm in Hannon’s Hotel. Patricia McCallog will give a Christmas-themed floral demonstration. Proceeds from the night will go to Roscommon Hospice. Tickets are available from Pat on 086 0774017/090 6625694, Hannon’s Hotel, Total Health Pharmacy, Roscommon or members of the committee.

Activities at Cloonycolgan Community Centre As we head into Christmas there are lots of events going on at Cloonycolgan Community Centre. The annual Christmas Craft Fair will take place in the centre on Saturday, December 16th, from 12.30 pm to 3 pm. We are asking local people to support us by buying a table where you can sell your crafts. Santa Claus will also be dropping by on the day on his journey from the North Pole. You can meet and greet the great man for a nominal fee of €3. Bring the family and relax before the Christmas rush with a cup of coffee and a piece of cake! Meanwhile, the annual Christmas Bingo and Bazaar will take place in the centre on Monday, December 18th, at 8 pm. There will be lots of prizes to be won to enhance your Christmas this year, so please come along and support your local community centre.

Rahara Community Christmas Lighting Party

All are welcome to the turning on of the Rahara Community Christmas Lights at Rahara Old Church (beside Rahara NS) on Sunday, 3rd of December at 4.30 pm. This will include children singing Christmas songs and will be followed by festive refreshments and a Big Christmas Raffle in Rahara NS. Raffle tickets can be purchased on the night or via Revolut. Text Orla at (086) 6036432 for more information.

Special Family Tree Healing Mass A Special Family Tree Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone on Friday, 1st of December, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr. John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and individual blessings for healing will take place after Mass. All are most welcome. Refreshments afterwards. Eircode is N37W704.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

GOING OUT

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

Roscommon’s recent All-Star recipient Enda Smith is interviewed by RTE’s Darragh Maloney during the Club Rossie ‘An evening with Jim Gavin’ event held in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photograph: Bernie O’Farrell

Former Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin is interviewed by RTE’s Darragh Maloney during the Club Rossie ‘An evening with Jim Gavin’ event held in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photograph: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon manager Davy Burke chatting to RTE’s Darragh Maloney during the Club Rossie ‘An evening with Jim Gavin’ event held in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photograph: Bernie O’Farrell

Liam McNeill and Albert Looby pictured at ‘An Evening with Jim Gavin and Special Guests’ which was hosted by Club Rossie/Roscommon GAA in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photography: Bernie O’Farrell

Guests pictured at ‘An Evening with Jim Gavin and Special Guests’ which was hosted by Club Rossie/Roscommon GAA in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photography: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

GOING OUT

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

Guests pictured at ‘An Evening with Jim Gavin and Special Guests’ which was hosted by Club Rossie/Roscommon GAA in the Hodson Bay Hotel last Friday night. Photography: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Entertainment, Culture & Arts

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

All set for series of Roscommon Solstice Choir concerts… Pictured at a recent meeting in Derrane Resource Centre are members of the Roscommon Solstice Choir with representatives of the organisations involved in their forthcoming concerts in Glenamaddy, Claremorris, Knockcroghery and Arva (Co. Cavan). The concerts will take place on the following dates: Glenamaddy (Sunday, 3rd of December); Claremorris (Friday, 8th of December); Knockcroghery (Sunday, 10th of December) and Arva (Sunday, 17th of December).

Ciara releases new single – with love! Singer-songwriter and RosFM host Ciara Lawless has just released her new single, ‘With Love’ ahead of her debut album release next year. Ciara is one to watch for 2024, having just performed at the famous Brown Thomas fashion Autumn/ Winter Collection event in Galway, and appeared on the cover of the October issue of N magazine, a publication available in the national gallery of Ireland which showcases Ireland’s best creatives. Experiencing a steady rise on the Irish music scene, Ciara is making waves after a successful run on the national festival circuit and the re-

John Ralph from Ballygar pictured performing his poem ‘Journey Back to the Promised Land’ which earned him the title of ‘Bard of Connacht 2023’ at a recent event in Creggs organised by Kilbegnet Historical Society as part of Creggs Harvest Festival.

lease of her first two singles, ‘Half The Man’ and ‘I Am Your Healer’. She sharpened her stage skills over the summer, performing at various festivals including the Mná Festival at Dun na Sí in Co. Westmeath, the Lovestock Festival in Tuamgraney in Co. Clare, the Healing Spirit Festival in Co. Cavan and the Hidden Hearth Festival in Co. Carlow. Her music would be of particular interest to those who are already fans of the likes of Kate Bush, Florence and The Machine, Tori Amos, and Amy Lee. In ‘New Irish Songs To Hear This Week’, Hot Press described Ciara as “a promising artist capable of delving

into difficult themes about the human experience, all the while turning them into melodic pieces of beauty”. According to Ciara, “The new song, ‘With Love’ is about the transformative power of love and positivity in one’s life”. The single, which is available to listen to now on Spotify, is being released ahead of her debut album, ‘Where Am I Supposed To Go With This Love?’’, which is due to come out in April 2024. To learn more about Ciara and her music, find her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube (all at @CiaraLawlessHQ).

Westmeath Artists’ Exhibition at Luan Gallery opens today Luan Gallery, in collaboration with Westmeath Arts Office, is set to present Sa Lár, Westmeath Artists’ Awards Exhibition, featuring works by 30 Westmeath artists that have been selected by guest curator Emer McGarry, Director of The Model, Sligo. The Westmeath Artists Awards Show is a collaboration between Luan Gallery and Westmeath Arts Office aiming to celebrate, showcase and support the development of Westmeath visual artists’ practices and careers and is supported by the Arts Council of Ireland. Over 40 works by 30 artists will be showcased in the exhibition, with several of the artists exhibiting for the first time in Luan Gallery. The launch takes place on Thursday, November 30th at 6 pm and all are welcome to attend. The exhibition will continue until Thursday, February 8th 2024, with seasonal closures from the 20th to the 27th of December inclusive. Admittance to Luan Gallery is free and guided tours are available to all at no cost. More information on the exhibition and upcoming events can be found at athloneartsandtourism.ie/luan-gallery/ and on Luan Gallery’s social channels.

Finalists pictured at the Bard of Connacht event in Creggs. Pictured left to right are Frank Brandon, Ger Duffy, Rosanna Myles, John Ralph (Bard of Connacht 2023), Mary Whyte (who read the poems on behalf of two finalists who couldn’t be present), Henry Hudson, Anne Byrne, and Mike Hutchinson.

Ballygar man claims title of Bard of Connacht 2023 John Ralph from Ballygar is the 2023 Bard of Connacht, following an event at Creggs Harvest Festival. Poets from all over the island gathered in Creggs for the second annual Bard of Connacht, which has a prize fund of €1,000. Earlier in the day, Emma Hosty, a student from the Mountbellew area, was named as the Junior Bard of Connacht, and Amelia Dermich, a student in Colaiste an Chreagain, Mountbellew, took second prize.

The finalists for the Bard of Connacht were as follows: Frank Brandon from Creggs with his poem ‘Epic Journey’, Anne Byrne from Boyle with ‘Inhale’, Greg Carey from Shannon with ‘Leaving’, Niamh Cooper from Clonakilty with ‘The Promised Land’, Michéal Coughlan from Sligo with ‘The Journey of Us’, Ger Duffy from Tramore with ‘Doolough’, Henry Hudson from Dublin with ‘Burren’, Mike Hutchinson from

Williamstown with ‘Terra Repromissionis Sanctorum’, Rosanna Myles from Monaghan with ‘Epic Journey’, and finally John Ralph from Ballygar with ‘Journey Back to the Promised Land’. Fourth place and a prize of €100 went to Anne Byrne, third prize and a prize of €150 went to Mike Hutchinson, Niamh Cooper won second prize and €250, and the top prize, €500 plus the Vincent Keaveny trophy went to John

Ralph with ‘Journey Back to the Promised Land’. His poem was a powerful plea to go back to nature, to treat the earth with respect and to stop using harmful chemicals in our everyday lives. Welcoming guests to the event, Sean Beirne of Kilbegnet Historical Society spoke of the importance of poetry as a medium of expressing emotions and thanked all who took part in this year’s event for taking the time to put pen to

paper. Over 70 entries were received. He also thanked the three judges who took the time to adjudicate on each entry and determine the finalists and eventual winners. Larry Kilcommins of Kilbegnet Historical Society thanked the many sponsors of the event and hoped that some of the students who took part in the Junior Bard competition would feature in the Bard of Connacht event in years to come.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Unit 6, WestPoint Business Park, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, Ireland. N37 E3W9

An electrical Switchgear, engineering, manufacturing and design company located inand the heart of the Midlands,located An electrical Switchgear, engineering, manufacturing design company Athlone are lookingare to expand itsto manufacturing the Midlands, Athlone looking expand its team. manufacturing team. We currently h We positions currently have the following positions available: following available.

(5x) Electrical Assembly Technicians General Operative Hours - 4 Day Work Week (Monday - Thursday, 7.30am – 5.30pm) CNC Operator

The company requires technicians to join this quality focused team responsible for the following tasks: l Assemble electrical components per a detailed electrical/ mechanical design package.

Mechanical / Electrical Assembly Technician

l Wire up internal components including ACB’s, MCB’s MCCB’s, RCBO’s as part of an inclusive skid. l Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guide lines.

Full training will be given to the ideal candidate.

This is a great opportunity to join a fast-paced expanding engineering company with fu offer to the ideal candidate.

(5x) Mechanical Assembly Technicians Hours - 4 Day Work Week (Monday - Thursday, 7.30am – 5.30pm)

Please apply with your CV directly to HR@centralswitchgear.ie or call 0906498112

The company requires technicians to join this quality focused team responsible for the following tasks: l Assemble mechanical components per a detailed mechanical design package. l Build, punch and form copper busbar components. l Assemble mechanical enclosures. l Execute QAQC checklists as part of the internal quality guide lines.

Full training will be given to the ideal candidate.

Accounts Secretarial Post

Part-time Accounts Secretary (32 hours per week). Qualifications required for the position include: Experience with the Microsoft Office suite and other software packages including Sage and Accounts Payable duties.

Please forward a CV together with two written references to

Central Switchgear at: hr@centralswitchgear.ie The closing date for receipt of applications is January 10th, 2024 Short listing may apply.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

FarmingPeople Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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

THURSDAY 30TH NOVEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS MONDAY 4TH DECEMBER:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY 7TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS

INCLUDING SALE OF 15 SPRINGING SUCKLER COWS, MOSTLY ANGUS, SCANNED IN CALF TO PB AA BULL DUE JAN ONWARDS, MOSTLY YOUNG COWS, GENUINE STOCK. MONDAY 11TH DECEMBER:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY 14TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

Castlerea MART WATCH Sale on 23/11/23: Over 600 lots presented for sale on Thursday last. Trade for all classes of stock remained firm and in some cases prices were improved with strong northern demand, feedlots, agents and farmers anxious for stock. The heifer ring reported an excellent clearance with one local customer obtaining €2980 for his 610kgs limousin heifer, or €4.88 a kilo. Overall, heifer prices were improved on previous weeks. The weanling ring had a similar tone with bulls peaking at €3.96 a kilo while the heifer weanlings topped out at €3.86 a kilo. The dry cow trade has witnessed strong turnout the last few weeks and prices peaked at €2500 for the heavier lots. Cows with calves at foot made up to €2290 while the runner ring reported a good trade also. Sample prices – heifers: Chx 415kgs €1360 Ch 410kgs €1250 Ch 385kgs €1220 Lm 485kgs €1440 Ch 450kgs €1350 Ch 385kgs €1220 Lm 485kgs €1440 Ch 450kgs €1350 Lm 470kgs €1440 Lm 610kgs €2980 Ch 605kgs €1800 Sim 595kgs €1680 Lm 595kgs €1650 Lm 475kgs €1400. Dry cows: Au 925kgs €2500 BBx 840kgs €2300 AA 875kgs €2130 Ch 820kgs €2040 BBx 690kgs €1890 Fr 480kgs €740 AA 710kgs €1740 AA 610kgs €1460. Cows with calves at foot made from €1040 to €1770 per head. Runners/calves: Young calves made from €120 to €330 while the runners made from €270 to €900 for continental lots. Weanling bulls: Ch 285kgs €1130 Lm 295kgs €1030 Lm 290kgs €970 BBx 355kgs €1300 Ch 285kgs €900 AA 240kgs €830 Lm 315kgs €1160 Ch 325kgs €1150. Weanling heifers: BBx 295kgs €1140 Lm 280kgs €1090 Ch 255kgs €860 AA 265kgs €730 Ch 315kgs €1210 Ch 350kgs €1120 Lm 310kgs €970 AA 190kgs €550. Bullock Sale, Monday, 20th of November: There were 300 lots on offer with quality stores making up to €3.35 a kilo while heavier lots topped out at €2140. Overall a good clearance took place as demand and prices remained firm. Sample prices: Ch 495kgs €1660 Lm 473kgs €1490 Lm 443kgs €1490 Ch 520kgs €1720 Ch 520kgs €1680 Lmx 525kgs €1560 Lm 570kgs €1800 Lm 625kgs €1670 Ch 810kgs €2140 AAx 690kgs €1840 Ch 660kgs €1700. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday (today) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

ICMSA: Meeting with EU Commissioner on Nitrates was ‘useful’ The President of the ICMSA Pat McCormack has said that last week’s meeting with EU Environmental Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevicius on the Nitrates issue was “useful” and had clari-

fied several questions. Chief amongst those clarifications was the Commissioner’s concession that if water quality stabilised then Ireland could keep its Derogation. Mr McCormack

said that he had no doubt whatsoever that the incidence of water problems rightly or wrongly attributed to farming would fall – he said that trend was already apparent and would continue.

A more pressing issue was what he described as the State’s hopeless position on deteriorating water quality caused by its own inaction and indifference. The ICMSA President

said that the recent publication of untreated discharges at multiple locations all under the direct supervision of agencies of the State was as scandalous as it was revealing.

Dairy farmers ‘losing patience’ as market improvements still not reflected in price The current bounce in milk markets across the globe is a welcome and ongoing development according to ICMSA Dairy Chairperson Noel Murphy, but he warned that Irish milk suppliers are losing patience as the bounce fails to materialise in their farm gate prices. Mr Murphy noted that 2023 had seen significant falls in spot markets from the high of 2022, with resultant falls in farm gate prices of 20cpl or higher in the first half of the year. The falls in price some farmer experienced were in some cases higher than the total price received by some as recently as 2016. The ICMSA chairperson said that when markets turned positive for the duration and to the degree we had seen recently, then farm gate prices simply had to follow. Mr Murphy said that this demonstrably

had not happened for October prices, when some co-operatives decided that there was still time for deductions. The Ornua PPI is running at 36.1cpl for October, but there are many falling up to 3cpl short of that amount and that gap needs to be narrowed and eliminated in the coming months if farmers are to have confidence in their milk purchasers. “Since the lowest ebb of Dutch dairy quotes in late August, the industry standard butter and skim milk powder mix are up almost 10.5cpl and the whole milk powder returns have increased almost 8cpl. This is a threemonth-long sustained increase unprecedented in 2023 and shows conclusively that there is increased confidence in the market. “That confidence and level of trade must be reflected in higher prices to farmers supplying

Noel Murphy, Chairperson of ICMSA Dairy.

those co-ops. It’s worth drawing attention to the fact that those farmersuppliers have endured a miserable year where cost of production have

not eased back to original level and are currently hovering around ‘breakeven’ with the prices being paid by their co-ops. That has to change and

we know – I repeat, we know – that the co-ops are getting better prices than their payments to their farmer-suppliers would indicate”.

Roscommon MART WATCH Cattle sale: There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s special heifer sale (November 24), with 347 lots on offer. Heifers fetched an average of €2.71 per kilo, up to €3.37 per kilo. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €2.11 per kilo up to €2.82 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active. Dry cows ranged from an average of €2.11 per kilo up to €2.82 per kilo. Sample prices: Lim X 735 kg €2,070, Lim X 790 kg €2,140, BBX 845 kg €2,240, Char X 835 kg €2,120, PTX 775 kg €2,010, Lim X 770 kg €1,890, Lim X 710 kg €1,970, Char X 860 kg €2,050, and Lim X 750 kg €1,780. Heifers ranged from an average of €2.71 per kilo up to €3.37 per kilo. Sample prices: Char X 415 kg €1,400, Char X 425 kg €1,360, Char X 590 kg €1,930, Char X 575 kg €1,910, Char X 565 kg €1,890, Char X 560 kg €1,820, Lim X 570 kg €1,840, Char X 490 kg €1,550, Char X 450 kg €1,500, Char X 380 kg €1,210, Char

X 380 kg €1,170, and Lim X 365 kg €1,160.

Weanlings There was a large entry of top quality weanlings on offer at our sale held on Tuesday, November 28th, with a very strong trade for both bulls and heifers. Bull weanlings fetched from an average of €3.05 per kilo up to €4.20 per kilo, while heifer weanlings made from an average of €3.24 per kilo up to €6.50. There was a very good attendance of customers ringside with online buyers also active. Heifer weanlings ranged from an average of 3.24 per kilo up to €6.50 per kilo. Sample prices: LM X 320 kg €2080 - €6.50 Per KG, Char X 320 kg €1080 - €3.37 Per KG, BB X 315 kg €1290 - €4.09 Per KG Char X 280 kg €1000 - €3.57 Per KG, Char X 350 kg €1,170 €3.34 Per KG, and Char X 265 kg €970 - €3.66 Per KG. Bull weanlings ranged from an average of 3.05 per kilo up to 4.20 per kilo.

Sheep We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly sale of lambs and cast ewes on Wednesday, November 29th. Prices for finished lambs made up to €157 and the tops for stag ewes fetched €148. Our next sale of lambs and cast ewes is next Wednesday, December 6th, at 11 am. The yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on livestock-live.com. Finished lambs, sample prices: 55.2kgs €157, 54kgs €156, 52.2kgs €155, 52.8kgs €155, 54.5kgs €149, 50kgs €149, 51.8kgs €149, 49kgs €146, 47.4kgs €145, and 48.9 kgs €143. Store lambs, sample prices: 38.8kgs €120, 42.1kgs €118.50, 39kgs €112, 39kgs €110, 37.5kgs €110, 35.1kgs €104, 39.7kgs €100, 38kgs 97, and 36.5kgs €90. Cast ewes made from €40 to €148 per lot.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

FarmingPeople

NewsPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 64 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, 1st December at 11 a.m.

Public meeting in Boyle on ‘large increase’ in refugee numbers < PAUL HEALY

Special Sale of Bullocks

60 Pens on offer Also Dry Cows and Heifers -------------------------Friday, 8th December at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers

Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Monday, 4th December at 5 p.m. ---------------------------Tuesday, 5th December at 4 p.m.

A group of ‘concerned locals’ have organised a public meeting in Boyle this Friday night to highlight their concerns over what they claim is a “large increase” in the number of refugees being accommodated in the town. The group will hold their meeting on the same day on which a ‘welcome’ event is being planned for refugees who recently arrived in the town, having sought ‘international protection’. Describing themselves as “concerned locals invested in the wellbeing of Boyle”, the group say

they are not aligned to any political party and “are not driven by fear, racism or prejudice”. The group say that a significant number of refugees are currently being accommodated in Boyle, with “secretive” plans for further arrivals. The group states: “Recently, we have all observed an increase in the establishment of International Protection Accommodation within the town. As a community, we have been more than welcoming to the large number of people that have moved to Boyle in the past couple of months to make a new life. “While we recognise the impor-

tance of providing refuge to those in need, we cannot ignore the potential strain that International Protection Accommodations and the unexpected rise in population places on our town”. The organisers of Friday’s meeting say they have a genuine worry about Boyle’s capacity to cope, given what they say is an existing shortage of essential facilities such as doctors, dentists, schools, housing and other “crucial amenities”. They have also raised safety concerns, claiming there is not a visible Garda presence on the streets. The group added: “We feel that, as a community, we de-

serve to know what International Protection Accommodations are planned for Boyle. We feel that local landlords and outside developers have a responsibility to let our community know what buildings are being occupied…” They say they should be able to talk about their concerns without being branded “far-right racists”. “We’re saying that migration is a good thing for Boyle, but there’s only so many additional people that our town can manage given the current lack of housing and facilities”. This Friday night’s public meeting will be held in St Joseph’s Hall, Boyle at 8 pm.

Sale of Weanlings --------------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m. ---------------------Friday, 1st December

Western Region Texel Club

Female Show and Sale

Show at 6pm. Sale at 7pm. -----------------------------------

Also Friday 1st December

Dispersal Sale of the entire Lisgobbin Flock of Pedigree Registered Blue Texels At Roscommon Mart

Sale will commence at 9 p.m. approx. (Immediately after West Region Texel Club Female sale)

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

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TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

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

Your LOCAL Collector GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICE

Pictured are members of the Comans Swim Club in Roscommon.

Comans Swim Club hosts ‘Home Swimming Gala’ this Sunday < NEVILLE MCCORMACK

This Sunday, December 3rd 2023, all roads lead to the Roscommon Leisure Centre as Comans Swim Club eagerly anticipates the convergence of swimming enthusiasts from across Connacht for their home swimming gala. The event promises a thrilling display of talent, camaraderie, and a festive spirit that will make a splash in the local swimming community.

What to expect The Roscommon Leisure Centre will transform into a hub of aquatic excitement starting at 9 am, as swimmers from various clubs dive head-first into a series of challenging swimming stroke events. From freestyle

sprints to elegant butterfly strokes, the competition is sure to keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Adding to the anticipation, the gala will feature relay events that showcase the teamwork and synchronised skill of participating teams. Comans Swim Club is geared up to present a full squad of 19 swimmers, ranging from the talented young group to our seasoned senior athletes, promising a dynamic and diverse display of swimming prowess.

Community involvement In the true spirit of community, Comans Swim Club has organised a shop at the venue, providing spectators with an opportunity to grab a tea or coffee and some goodies. Additionally, a local raffle will be held, offering attendees a chance to win delightful Christ-

mas treats. The raffle will contributes to the festive cheer in the lead-up to the holiday season.

Stay informed For those unable to attend the event in person, a comprehensive report on the gala, including highlights of stand-out performances and the overall atmosphere, will be featured in the upcoming edition of the local newspapers and on our social media pages. Don’t miss the chance to relive the action and celebrate the achievements of our local swimmers. As we gear up for this spectacular event, Comans Swim Club extends a warm invitation to the community to join us at the Roscommon Leisure Centre for a day of thrilling competition, community spirit, and holiday festivities. See you at the poolside!

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

NEW TO THE MARKET 53.5 ACRE RESIDENTIAL ROADSIDE FARM

RAVEEGE, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 XW77

NEW TO THE MARKET 5 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

14 SLIABH BAN VIEW, THE WALK, ROSCOMMON F42 FW99

Keith 086 0848590

Cathal 086 1409158

FOR SALE VIA ONLINE AUCTION (LSL PLATFORM) ON FRIDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2023 AT 12 PM 19 ACRES APPROX OF ROADSIDE LANDS LOCATED AT

RINNAGAN, LECARROW, CO. ROSCOMMON

SOLD AMV: PRICE ON APPLICATION

AMV: €400,000

AMV: €145,000

Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796. Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 • Email: teamearley@remax.ie • Web: www.teamearley.ie

Investment property in Ballyleague is new to market with Remax Team Earley Remax Team Earley are proud to present to the market a mixed-used investment property in the heart of Ballyleague village. The property is on approximately 1.5 acres of land. The main property comprises commercial units on the ground floor and residential area on the second floor. The property comes complete with vacant possesson of fully licensed substantial trading Shannonside Bar & Beer Garden. The commercial units comprise of functioning public house with front and large ‘back bar’ with toilets and outside area, a fast food takeaway, antique shop and restaurant space with fitted-out kitchen. There is also a separate building which contains a dog grooming business. On the second floor of the property, the residential area comprises of six bedrooms, all of which are ensuite. While the residential section is in need of refurbishment, this property offers excellent potential for investors. The tenants are not affected from this sale and it is offering a fantastic yield. The auctioneer highly recommends viewing of this excellent investment opportunity (for sale by private treaty, or auction later). For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or Cathal on 086 1409158 or email teamearley@remax.ie or log onto www.teamearley.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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

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.

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

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PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

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CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey

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COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

< FOR SALE: Fodder Beet, washed and delivered also Round Bales of Hay. Phone: 087 2781024

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

Paul McStay

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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

Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www psychotherapy Vouchers glynisdowney.com

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< FOR SALE: Top quality, dry silage bales, Castlerea area. Phone: 086 7351912

FENCING/GATES

Des Kelly Fencing

Tree Services • Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured Phone:

087 2721193

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

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087 2346364

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JOE HEALY

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086 8936012

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Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

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GATELY GARDENING

Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available

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087 2860428

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

CORBETT

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

087 6558597

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Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

GRINDS < GERMAN GRINDS: For Junior and Leaving Cert. Years of teaching experience, based in Roscommon, grinds focused on exam requirements, 4 one-hour sessions per month online, €120. Email: michael@germangrinds.ie or call Michael on 085 745 3472 < MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible. Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Catherine Gaffey, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for Retention of storage shed on revised site boundaries and all associated site works at Ballyglass, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. F42 DR53. Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. Mobile: 086 8551835 The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Patrick Diffley, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of 1 No. dwelling and associated site works at Farnbeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

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

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

086 3482387

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Damien Flannery am applying for planning permission for 1. The Conversion of an Existing First floor derelict residence above an existing Commercial Unit into 2 no 1 bedroom apartments 2.The Demolition of an existing partially collapsed outbuilding and the construction of a new two storey 2 bedroom apartment with 2 no car parking spaces and storage shed to the rear and all associated site development works at Ballaghaderreen Td, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Damien Flannery That the planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of the receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ciaran Lennon and Shauna Hawthorne, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic dwelling house along with domestic garage, new treatment system and percolation area and all ancillary site development works at Carrowgarve, Tulsk, Castlerea, 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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School

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Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Martin Lambe, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To refurbish derelict house to include alterations to elevations and construct rear extension to existing house, 2. To demolish existing rear extensions, 3. To construct new boundaries to north, east and south of site, to include new realligned front boundary wall (which already accommodates a domestic and agricultural entrance). To construct new post and rail fence, which will define the garden space associated with the building unit and relocate the pedestrian gate along the new front wall, 4. To carry out all ancillary site development works at Ballinagard Rd, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Sean and Bernadette Mulry intend to apply to Roscommon County Counci for planning permission for erection of extension to dwelling house and for all ancillary development works at Carrownabrickna, Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Clann na nGael GAA Club together with the Board of Management of Colaiste Chiaran, Summerhill, Crannagh Td., Athlone, are applying to the above Authority for Planning Permission for development at Colaiste Chiaran, Summerhill, Crannagh Td., Athlone The development will consist of: 1. To develop a 4G full size GAA Pitch with 1.4m High Metal Fence surrounding and 2 No 13m High Ball Stops 2. To erect 6 No 21.34m high poles to provide flood lighting of 350 Lux Standard 3. To construct a 2m wide walkway around the boundaries of the pitch together with all ancillary siteworks.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Patrick Varley, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following 1. To refurbish derelict house to include alterations to elevations and construct new extension 2. To construct new domestic garage, 3. To install upgraded treatment system and percolation area, 4. To construct new boundary wall and form new entrance along front boundary, also form new boundary with post and rail fence to sides and rear, to define the garden space associated with the building unit, and carry out all ancillary site development works and all ancillary site development works at Emlaghmore, Donamon, Co. Roscommon.

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 085 1299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Cathal Dunning, intend to apply for Permission for development. The development will consist of the importation of inert fill material for agricultural improvement purposes, including all other ancillary site work and services at Cloonown Townland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €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: Cathal Dunning

Signed: Sean and Bernadette Mulry 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 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Roadstone Ltd. intends to apply for permission for development at: Knocknanool Townland, Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The development, within an application area of 6 Ha., will consist of: • Use of up to 190,000 tonnes of imported inert natural materials, principally excess soil, stones and/or broken rock to partially fill and restore a disturbed landform created by previous extraction of sand and gravel. The development will be completed within 9 years (which includes a restoration period of up to 2 years); • Proposed infrastructure including, site office, staff welfare facilities, weighbridge, wheelwash, hardstand areas, waste inspection and quarantine facility and covered shed; • Temporary stockpiling of topsoil and subsoil pending re-use as cover material for final restoration of the site; • Restoration of the excavated landform (including placement of cover soils and seeding) to natural habitat and grazing. The planning application will be accompanied by an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR). The Planning application, and Environmental Impact Assessment Report, 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: Gerard Pettit (Chairman Clan Na nGael) That 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 five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon County Council Planning Permission is sought from Roscommon County Council for the following development: To upgrade existing septic tank and percolation area to rear of existing dwelling and provide mechanical effluent treatment unit and percolation area including all ancillary site works necessary to complete the development. Planning application Reference No.: PD/23/60002 currently in progress in relation to extension to the above dwelling at Sroankeeragh Td., Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon for Enda Heslin. 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 a fee of €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: Tony McTiernan (Agent) Lower Annagh Dowra, Co. Leitrim. Tel: 086 3410377

Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 085 1299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in County Roscommon! The local paper!

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

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

USEFUL SERVICES TAXIS

Padraig Healy Wheelchair Accessible

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(086) 2714879

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

TOP QUALITY TURF 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone:

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< FIREWOOD + TURF: High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire. Turf also available in bulk tonne bags. Call 086 3312411

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

086 2437376 < THIS WEEKS SPECIAL OFFER: 20kg bags of coal suitable for stoves, range, open fires only @14 per bag. Tonne bags of seasoned black turf €50 per bag. Tonne bags of seasoned firewood €50 per bag. Contact: 086 2628439

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

RECYCLING

ROOFING

CAREERS

Eithne Jarrett

M.Ed. Adult Guidance & Counselling Cert. Psychology. Cert. Assistive Technology. Cert. Psychometric Assessment Member of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors

Vita House Family Centre, Abbey Street, Roscommon Appointments: Tel: 085 7322261

Providing Professional Career Guidance and Counselling to those aged 16+ Assessment of interests and aptitudes. l Career Planning - CAO options, Guidance with Subject Choice for Leaving Cert and Career Implications. l Career change/development – supporting decision making, exploring additional training/educational requirements. l Job applications, CV’s, Cover Letters, Presentations, Interview skills. l Support for adults returning to education, college course applications, study skills, academic writing, career progression. l Support with assistive technology requirements in educational and workplace settings for individuals with a disability.

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

ALPHA ROOFING

l Slate roofs l Tiled roofs l Flat roofs, using all type of materials l Roof windows l Lead replacing l Pointing work l Leak detection l All roofing repair work

Mobile: 086 8874576 Email: info@alpharoofing.ie Web: www.alpharoofing.ie ROOFING

Richie Dooner Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

1st and 2nd fix Panelling l Sliding Wardrobes l All general construction l Media wall units sprayed painted or skimmed

VETERINARY

l l

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroofs repairs l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Demolition work & new builds l Chimney repairs l All major ground works, driveway insulation, footpaths, tarmacadam & drain services l Plastering & Skimming l Painting & Decorating l Patio Services & Powerwashing l Renovation, extension, porches, walls & garden design

Tel: 087 6117326

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

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie GUTTER CLEANING ALSO AVAILABLE Telephone

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? The local paper!

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

087 9795226

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

086 4679798

Locally owned and in the of the community

💙

The local paper!

ROOFING

NASHVILLE ROOFING

Roof Repairs

ALL CREATURES

Veterinary Clinic & Shop

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

Company website

nashvilleroofing.ie

Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at

email: roofingcontractors96@gmail.com

Phone: 083 1479301

Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates

For the best care for your animal, large and small.

Phone:

089 9899912

KITCHENS

Focus360 KITCHENS • SUPPLY AND FIT • REMODEL/UPGRADE • 3D PLAN • KITCHENS TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET

Call/WhatsApp DAVID 083 069 5820

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

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Classifieds USEFUL SERVICES Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:

087 9657933

or 090 66 33084

TILER

Professional Tiler available Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

Kilroe Tiling

or email michaelkilroe123@gmail.com for all your tiling needs.

TREE SHEARING

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

PODIATRIST

Tullys Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

HEALTH CARE

Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment.

What do your eyes say about you?

Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only – l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling

l Dangerous Tree Removed

087 2982214 Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole,

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

REFLEXOLOGY

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

The most read newspaper in County Roscommon!

Marina Furey B. Sc. (MNRRI) (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to the reflex points of the feet/hand to trigger the natural healing power of the body

• Fertility Reflexology • Antenatal Reflexology • Baby/Child Reflexology • Special Needs Reflexology • Menopause Reflexology • Cancer Care Reflexology

Benefits:

• Relaxation • Stress & Pain relief • Improves circulation, digestion, sleep • Lowers blood pressure

Gift Vouchers Available

The local paper!

PMC

Ballintober, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45Y320

Tel: 087 2264951

Phone: 086 - 8944363 or 086 - 0872166

Painting Contractors

10%

Discount with this advert.

• Cleaning & Painting Roofs of Houses, Sheds and Barns • Roofs Repairs • Cleaning & Sealing of Driveways/Tarmac • Fully Insured and work guaranteed for 5 years

CALL MICHAEL ON

089 966 1849

083 377 7204 Email

Contact Luke on

denisegcoyle@ gmail.com

085 7359120

Mobile

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Hydraulic Cylinder Repair and Testing l Hydraulic Hose Repair l Oil/Grease Lubricants l OEM Hydraulic Components and Spares l

• Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance • Boiler Servicing • Heating Installation • Call for FREE QUOTATION

Denise Coyle Iridologist, Honor Member IIPA

USEFUL SERVICES

Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd

Plumbing & Maintenance Appointments available locally

USEFUL SERVICES

HOME MAINTENANCE

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:

For all foot ailments

USEFUL SERVICES

PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

The company that can do all them small jobs

FROM

€190 094 9373445 087 9100477

Tyres - Car, Van and 4x4 l Wheel Balancing l 4-Wheel Alignment l Batteries l Adblue l Accessories l

Electrician Available Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p086255315 @gmail.com

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

MASSAGE TREATMENTS

Gift Vouchers

www.oddjobsolutions.ie

ALSO AVAILABL E

Established since 2005

GRINDS

Movement Matters

Christmas Maths Revision Courses

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

Junior Cert HL Tuesday, 2nd January Leaving Cert HL Wednesday 3rd and Thursday 4th January Jacksons, The Square, Roscommon

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

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

Tar & Chip Driveways

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Owen for ground work

086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

GROUND WORKS

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

GF Ground Works l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways l Fully insured l References available

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:

090 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Mobile:

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Telephone: 090 66 33026

086 8115928

W: roscommonwindowsanddoors.com E: roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CARS

PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION

Chris’s Window Service

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

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

FARMING

- CCTV Camera Inspection

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:

Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal

Tel: 087 0944027

CARPENTRY & FITTED FURNITURE

INSULATION

Aodhgan Cashin

Ballybride, Roscommon F42 EC59

• Fitted Kitchens • Bedroom Units • Sitting Room Units • Timber Flooring • General Carpentry

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

andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway

€3,500

091 768 768

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School

Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Tel: 086 6082597 E: aodhgan.cashin@gmail.com

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

GARDENING David Duffy 087 9662678 Alan Duffy 086 3992382

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090 6621220 WELDING & FABRICATON

www.westsidegardening.ie GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal. CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available C2 Registered & Insured. Free Quotations

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP

Martin Mountbellew, Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Co.Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co. Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900Mountbellew, 087 9818153 9818153 Co. Galway www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie

www.mhla.ie 091 380900 |Approved 087 9818153 Certified Dip in Loss Product

Cleaning Services • Roscommon Certified Certified Dip DipAdjusting in Loss Loss in • Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’

Registered Heating & Plumbing Contractor l SEAI Registered Air To Water Heap Pump Installer l €6,500 SEAI Grants available for Heat Pump Upgrades l Registered Gas Installer l New Builds and Renovations l

Contact Pat: 086 8115339

TEL: (090) 96 88606 - Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

McCormack Plumbing & Construction Ltd.

info@mhla.ie

Member of the PSAB-GI

Advisor Product Approved Product Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Regulated by the Central Adjusting Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Advisor Advisor Regulated www.mhla.ie Regulated by by the the Central Central Institute of Ireland Loss Member Bank Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Member of of the the Insurance Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

Certified Dip in Loss Approved Product PROPERTY Advisor Adjusting Loss Assessor Services

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

Submit your Classified online

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

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@rosommonpeople.ie

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES FINNERAN

In loving Memory of Brian Finneran whose 6th Anniversary occurs on December 2nd and his father Frank whose 2nd anniversary occurred on November 12th.

Brian

Frank

(6th Anniversary)

(2nd Anniversary)

WARD Patrick (Paddy) Friaryland, Creggs, Co. Galway In loving memory of Paddy, who passed away on 1 December 2017

JONES Kitty Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

May Paddy Rest in Peace

May the winds of Heaven blow softly, and whisper in your ear, how much we miss and love you, and wish that you were here. Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Máire, daughters Méabh, Ella and Eabha, his mother Lily, sisters Maria and Anne and extended family.

Death leaves a heartache, no one can heal, love leaves a memory, no one can steal. Sadly missed by his loving wife Lily, daughters Maria and Anne, daughter in law Máire, sons in law Mohamed and Fernando, 9 grandchildren and extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 3rd December in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart at 10am.

DONLON Tom & Theresa Moher, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon

Time cannot steal the treasures, that we carry in our hearts. Nor ever dim the shining thoughts our cherished past imparts. For the memories of the ones, we loved still cast a gentle glow. To grace our days and light our paths, wherever we may go.

Missed each day and remembered by his family. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on 3rd December 2023 at 11.30am

FULLARD (nee Devlin) Sadie Tom, who passed away on 13th December 2022

Theresa, who passed away on 24th November 2012

Glenview, Galway Rd, Roscommon Town and Donegal

You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide and though we cannot see you you are always at our side. Sadly missed by your loving daughter Marcella, loving son Basil and daughter-in-law Fiona. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Friday, 1st December at 8pm.

COSTELLO Elizabeth 16 Circular Road, Roscommon

(4th Anniversary)

Fondly remembered and forever loved by all your family, neighbours and friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in memory of Tom and Theresa in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Sunday, 3rd December at 11am.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

I MISS YOU I cried when you passed away, I still cry today. Although I loved you dearly, I could not make you stay. Your golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke my heart to prove to me, he only takes the best Loved and sadly missed by your daughter Sharon, son-in-law Eamon and your grandson Eamonn. Anniversary Mass for Sadie will be held in Donegal.

(6th Anniversary) In loving memory of Joan – much loved wife, mother and granny who passed away on December 3rd 2017.

So much in life has changed, so much in life is new. But one thing never changes is the love we have for you. Each of us in our own special way have loving thoughts of you today.

Loved and remembered by Martina, Jimmy, Jude and Sinead. ~~~~~~~~~~

COSTELLO Elizabeth Out of our lives, you may have gone, but in our hearts you will always belong. Time passes, memories stay never forgotten especially today.

Loved and remembered by Noel, Kathey and family.

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS • Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com

MONAGHAN Denis and Mary (17th and 8th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Denis who died on the 6th December 2006 and Mary who died on the 28th December 2015.

Your memory is our keepsake, with which we’ll never part. God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts. Your life was love and labour, your love of family true. You did your best for all of us, we will always remember you. Loved and remembered every day by husband John, daughters Deirdre and Emer, sons John and Niall, son-inlaw Brian and grandchildren Senan, Ruan, Emilia and Zara. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 11 am on Sunday, 3rd December in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish.

BRENNAN Micheál In loving memory of my dear mother Elizabeth

Who died on 1st December 2019

Ballinaheglish, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Kitty, who died on the 3rd December 2011. Also remembering her husband Jeremiah who died on 18th August 1989.

May they Rest in Peace Each morning when we awaken, we know that you are gone and no one knows the heartache, as we try to carry on. Our hearts still ache with sadness, and many tears still flow, what it means to lose you both, no one will ever know. Our thoughts are always with you, your places no one can fill, in life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. There will always be a heartache, and often a silent tear, but forever precious memories, of the days when you both were here. If tears could make a staircase and heartaches make a lane, we’d walk the path to Heaven, and bring you home again. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. Our family chain is broken now, and nothing will be the same, but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

GARVEY Joan

Mount Mary, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on the 8th December 2017 (6th Anniversary)

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts is always kept for you. You’ll never be forgotten and every year we’ll shed a tear but its only because we love you and wish you were still here.

Always fondly remembered by Ita, Tomás, Kate and extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 8th December at 7.30pm.

God looked around the garden and saw two empty spaces He then looked down upon the earth, and saw your tired faces He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest God’s garden must be beautiful for He only takes the best. He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb, so He closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace be thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone; for part of us went with you both, the day God called you Home. Lovingly remembered by their son Denis, daughter-in-law Vera and grandchildren Amy and Shane. Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday, 3rd December at 10am.

REYNOLDS Pat and Martha Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon (16th and 14th Anniversaries) Whose anniversaries occur at this time

Treasured memories of Pat and Martha, beloved parents and grandparents who died on 20th December 2007 and 2nd November 2009. RIP. We can remember them That they have gone Or we can cherish their memory And let it live on Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Adrian, Yvonne, Niall and families. Anniversary Mass on Friday 1st December at 7pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. May they Rest In Peace

REYNOLDS Pat and Martha Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon (16th and 14th Anniversaries) Beautiful memories, silently kept, Of ones that we loved and will never forget. Sadly missed by all the Reynolds family.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES JOYCE Margaret Ballymoe, Co. Galway (37th Anniversary) In loving memory of our dear mother who passed away on December 4th 1986

Mam You always had a smile to share, time to give and time to care, a loving nature, a heart of gold, one of the best this world could hold. Deep are the memories precious they stay, no passing of time can take them away. Our wish is just a simple prayer, God bless and keep you in his care.

Sadly missed by her sons Mickie, Sean, Stephen and Cyril and her daughters Chrissie, Eileen, Carmel and Sheila, her sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family members. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Also remembering our brother

Paddy Who passed away on July 4th 2012 A silent memory keeps you near, as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our hearts you still live on.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Remembering our brother

Tommy Who passed away on July 13th 2021 Your life was one of thoughtful deeds a helping hand to other’s needs. Sincere and true in heart and mind, wonderful memories left behind.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Remembering our sister

Maureen Who passed away on February 25th 2023 Will those who think of her today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

May they Rest In Peace. Always remembered and sadly missed by their loving family.

TULLY (neé Kelly) Mary Who died 29th November 2022

COLLIGAN Stephen Scramogue, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

MURRAY MURRAY Mary Mary Lissavruggy, Newbridge Lissavruggy, Newbridge, 6th Anniversary Co. Galway (8th Anniversary)

BRENNAN Seamus Grange, Four Mile House (10th Anniversary). In loving memory of a dear dad, grandad, husband, brother and friend.

PADDEN Michael J. (Jody) Celtic Avenue, Roscommon and formerly of Ballina (24th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Stephen who passed away on the 3rd As we lovingly remember Mary on her First Anniversary, Treasured memories of December 2019a cherished wife, mother and nana who passed away on 29th November 2015. her husband Michael, her sons Fergal, Niall and Micheál In loving memory of Mary, a beloved wife, mother In loving memory of and daughters Siobhán, Aoife and Fiona, son-in-law Silent memories and nana who died Jody, who passed away and daughter-in-law and her grandchildren, would keep you near, on 29th November on the 2nd December Dad like to express our heartfelt appreciation to all those as time unfolds 2015. We did not know that morning, Years fly by 1999. who sympathised, supported and comforted us on the another year. like Autumn leaves, What sorrow the day would bring, heartbreaking loss of Mary. Out of our lives R.I.P. but heartache and you may have gone, When a heart of gold stopped beating, Thank you to our immediate family, Kellys and Tullys, ~~~~~~~~~~ tears remain. but in our thoughts for all your help and support. A special thank you to And we couldn’t do a thing. All we have left We once had Also remembering his and hearts, Roxboro N.S. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our are precious memories something special, loving wife you still live on. neighbours and friends for all the kindness and support It broke out hearts to lose you, of you for today, that money couldn’t buy, you have provided and continue to offer. We truly But you go alone, Loved and missed by your for tomorrow and until Kathleen we didn’t had a special appreciate everything you do for us. wife Ursula, children and our lives are through. For partwife of us went with you, who passed away on and mother, We will be eternally thankful to all our extended family, grandchildren. The day God you home. the 27th November butcalled we had neighbours and friends, who called to our home,

Always and forever in our Anniversary Mass in St. 2023. to say good bye. travelled long distances to attend and to those who thoughts Karen, John, Aidan, Anne’s Church, Scramogue We never fail to still thinkache of you, Our hearts sent Mass cards, flowers, condolences and letters. James and Cathal. on Sunday, 3rd December with sadness, We never ceaseour to secret care, To all the people and businesses who brought at 10am. tearswe still flow,go home, We only wish could refreshments and those who organised the traffic, we Anniversary Mass on Sunday, foryou whatwaiting it meant thank you most sincerely. 3rd December at 11am in St. And find there. to lose you, We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the Bridget’s Church, Four Mile will ever know. sons Michael Doctors and Nurses who cared for Mary. House.& Andrew, daughters Elaine Missed, loved andJUDGE remembered every day byonly herwe husband Michael, A word of thanks to the gravediggers who prepared & Amanda, son in law Donie Martin (Matt) Mary’s final resting place with great care and to those Lovingly remembered Runnabracken, Donamon, who formed a Guard of Honour. and missed every day by FITZMAURICE Co. Roscommon To Pat Smyth and family for all their help, professionalism your Michael, Ofhusband all the gifts in life, Patrick (Patsy) and guidance over those difficult few days, thank you. (13th Anniversary) sons Michael and Andrew, However great or small, We want to convey our appreciation to Fr. Kevin Fallon, Curraghmore House, Athleague, daughters Amanda To have you as ourand nana, Fr. Pravin Dhason and Fr. Eugene McLoughlin who Co. Roscommon Elaine, Donal. Was theson-in-law greatest gift of all. celebrated Mary’s Funeral Mass and for all their help Who passed away 3rd in making the Mass so memorable. A special thanks NANA Loved and remembered everyday by her grandsons Daniel, Noah & Sean, granddaughters Leah, Lucy, Izzy & of December, 2021 to Rachel, Aoife and Mary and Roxboro N.S. for the ~~~~~~~~~~ Nana, your wings beautiful music on the day and for creating such unique Jane. (2nd Anniversary) Also remembering their were ready, and heartfelt songs. Thank you also to Michael who son but ourNewbridge hearts were Anniversary Mass in St Patricks Church, onnot. Sunday 28th November at 11.30am delivered a touching, heartwarming and sentimental We miss you. eulogy. The special words you spoke about Mary will Oliver remain forever in our hearts. A heartfelt thank you to Forever loved and who passed away on Jacinta, Mary’s Forever Friend, for everything you’ve remembered by 18th March 2020. done and the ongoing support. grandchildren, Danny, Leah, Finally, as it would be impossible to thank everybody Lucy, Izzy, Noah, Seán and In loving memory individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a Jane. token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. Your of a dear father Anniversary Mass offered support over the past year has been invaluable and we and grandfather in Knock. will be forever grateful. Martin (Matt) Judge, Runnabracken, Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anniversary Mass will be offered for Mary on Donamon, Co. h-anam dílis. Two years has passed Saturday, 2nd of December in Our Lady of Lourdes Roscommon, who since that sad day, Church, Derrane at 7pm. died on 6th December you closed your eyes

2010

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

You were so very special and had the nicest ways you did so very much in life and never asked for praise. Sadly missed by his daughter Carmel, her partner Andrew and grandchildren Colm and Blake. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Nothing on earth can ever replace the sound of your voice. No verse, no flowers no tears can say how much we miss you every day. Always remembered by his daughter Martina, son-in-law Brendan and grandchildren Kevin, David and Caoimhe. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, 3rd December at 11am.

and slipped away. You left so quietly without a fuss and broke the hearts of all of us. In thought we see you just the same, with love and pride we speak your name. The time goes by but still you stay as near and dear as yesterday.

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Loved and missed every day by Nuala, Breedge, Sheila, Tommy and their families. Patsy’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Sunday, 3rd December at 10am.

Sadly missed by his wife Marceline, son Alan, daughter Laura, brothers and sisters, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. ~~~~~~~~~~ Also remembering their son

Walter who passed away on 2nd November 2023 Deep are the memories, precious they stay no passing years can take them away. Sadly missed by all the family.

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McCORMACK Brian (Thomas)

KELLY Lindsey

Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Brothers of Charity Roscommon and formerly Ballinagard Road, Roscommon Town

Gortgallon, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon. (2nd Anniversary)

Who died on 5th December 2022

In loving memory of a dear husband, father, and grandfather, who left this world on the 2nd of December 2021.

Cois na Coille, Galway and formerly of Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) 6th December 2020

LOFTUS Tom

We the brothers and sisters of the late Tom Loftus wish to acknowledge all those who sympathised and offered support at Tom’s time of passing. We would like to thank neighbours and friends from Cloonslanor and Roscommon, those who sent Mass Cards messages of sympathy floral tributes and condolences online and also those who telephoned us. We wish to thank all Tom’s carers in Cloonslanor, Strokestown for all their help and support over the years shown to Tom and taking time for visits, outings every week. Big thank you. Thank you to Pat and Gillian Smyth and family for all their support and kindness given to us and for organising Tom’s Funeral. We would like to thank Tom’s dear friend and house mate John, with whom he shared plenty of good times. A special thank you to all the staff at The Brothers of Charity Roscommon for their care and support of Tom. We would like to thank Fr. Kevin for the beautiful Homily and Fr. Larry for the beautiful way they celebrated Tom’s Funeral Mass and Burial. To the Mulryan brothers for the lovely music and also to Hannon’s Hotel for the beautiful food after the Funeral. Thanks also to John and Brian for preparing Tom’s final resting place with care and attention to detail. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our thanks and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Tom’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 2nd December in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 7pm.

KELLY Helena Ballyglass,Dysart (10th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 1st December 2013

A wife, a mother, a grandmother too, this is the legacy we have from you. You taught us love and how to fight, you gave us strength, you gave us might. A stronger person would be hard to find, and in your heart, you were always kind. You fought for us all in one way or another, not just as a wife not just as a mother. For all of us you gave your best, now the time has come for you to rest. So go in peace, you’ve earned your sleep. Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep. Loved always Goretti, Malachy and family. Mass offered.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same. We have to hide our heartache, when someone speaks your name. Sad are the hearts that love you, silent are the tears that fall. Living here without you is the hardest part of all. You did so many things for us, your heart was kind and true and when we needed someone, we could always count on you. The special years will not return, when we are all together, but with the love in our hearts, you walk with us forever.

Our darling Lindsey May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear how much we love and miss you and wish we had you here.

Forever loved, forever missed. Mam, Dad, Ashling, Martin, Jason and Daisy.

HARRINGTON Declan Cloverhill, Roscommon (20th Anniversary)

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.

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NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for 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 favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. M.V.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

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Mass offered.

MONTH’S MIND MASS

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BRENNAN Margaret (Maggie) Clooncroff, Kilteevan Who died on 25th October 2023

Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 2nd of December at 7pm in Holy Rosary Church, Ballyleague.

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Deeply loved and missed by Mum, Colette, Peter, Neil, Fergal, Martina and their families.

Loved and remembered always by Maura, Neville, Rachel, Breiffni, Mary, sonsin-law, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.

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THANKSGIVINGS

Maggie’s son Hugh and daughter Mary, together with our families wish to express our gratitude most sincerely to all who supported us on the recent sad loss of our much loved mother and grandmother. We would like to acknowledge the excellent care and support mum received in Innis Ree Nursing Home, we will be forever grateful to the management and staff for the care and kindness shown to our mother. Special thanks to our extended family, neighbours and friends who supported us and provided us with strength and comfort and for all the food that was delivered to our home, we are very thankful. Thank you to all who called personally to our home and attended the Reposal, Funeral Mass and Burial, to those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, posted online messages, phone calls and floral tributes and those who travelled long distances to be with us we are eternally grateful. We wish to offer special gratitude to Celebrant Rev. Fr. Sean Beirne, Marie Spellman (Eucharistic Minister), Eyna Reilly (Soloist) and all who contributed to the beautiful celebration of mum’s Funeral Mass. To the grave diggers who prepared mum’s final resting place with such love and care, your work did not go unnoticed and is very much appreciated. We can never forget the Homecare Assistants for the exellent care shown to mum over the years, thank you. To Pat and Gillian Smyth, thank you for the professionalism and kindness shown to our family and the considerate way in which your carried out your work. As it would be impossibe to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude.

Maggie’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 3rd of December at 10am. May she Rest In Peace.

Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

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Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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APPOINTMENTS

Applications are invited for the post of

Member Services Officer

Member Services Officer (Full-Time Permanent Position)

Summary of Role: The Member Services Officer will be accountable to the Head of Operations of Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union in carrying out a range of administrative and operational activities, that contribute to the effective running of the credit union and providing a quality service to members. This position will be primarily based in our Castlerea branch but may on occasion require the need to travel to our branches in Athlone. Key knowledge, skills and experience required; ·Certificate or Diploma in Business Studies, Secretarial or equivalent course is essential ·Cash handling experience ·Excellent administration skills and attention to detail ·Excellent communication and interpersonal skills ·Good working knowledge of I.T ·Proficient in reporting with some financial analysis skills ·Ability to use discretion and sensitivity in dealing with members ·Demonstrate self-initiative while working within the ethos of the credit union The successful candidate will be pleasant, courteous and trustworthy and will be able to demonstrate a commitment to member service. A relevant qualification in the financial service industry would be an advantage. Please forward your application by email to include curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing how you meet the requirements of the job specification to recruitment@accu.ie Closing date for Applications

Friday 15th of December 2023 Short listing may apply based on written applications against the criteria set out above. This is an entry level position. Canvassing will disqualify. Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union Ltd is an equal opportunities employer. Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland A copy of our recruitment policy is available by emailing recruitment@accu.ie

The Roscommon AC U-13 Girls team of Maria Godzic, Ciarra Keane, Juliette Fallon, Sarah Kelly, Chloe Ttouuli and Aimee Ttouuli.

Rossies ready for big Athletics Championships this Sunday The123.ie Athletics Ireland AllIreland Uneven-Ages Cross Country Championships will be held in Navan Racecourse, Co. Meath on Sunday, 3rd of December. Roscommon athletics will be well represented at the event by some of the county’s finest young talent, all of whom qualified via the corresponding Connacht Championships, held in Ballymote, Co. Sligo on November 5th. Up to 200 individual athletes are expected to compete on this prestigious occasion. At the U-13 girls age grade, Roscommon will be represented by the team who placed 3rd in Connaught. The team includes Juliette Fallon (Roscommon AC) who placed 6th individually in Connacht, claiming a place on the provin-

cial team, and who will pursue national honours in the girls’ event over 2500m running along with teammates Sarah Kelly, Ciarra Keane, Maria Godzic, Aimee Ttouuli, Chloe Ttouuli (all Roscommon AC), Ella Trayers, Muireann Mulry, Emily Gately (Suck Valley AC) and Heidi Crean (Reeside AC). The Roscommon AC Club team claimed 4th place in the provincial finals, also qualifying the

club for a chance to compete in nationals. An in-form Beth O’Mahony of Suck Valley AC will compete in the U-15 girls’ event over a 3500m course, and will also represent Connaught as a provincial finalist. At U-17 level Eamonn Coyle will represent Reeside AC, taking on the 4500m course. Best of luck to all our young athletes representing themselves, their club, county and province.

SHANNON LODGE NURSING HOME Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

We require the following staff:

l NIGHT NURSE (Part-time)

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TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

l CARE ASSISTANT

(Part-time/Full-time) l HOUSE KEEPER (Part-time)

Heidi Crean (Reeside AC)

The Roscommon County U-13 Girls team of (back) Ella Trayers, Emily Gately and Muireann Mulry, and (front) Sarah Kelly, Juliette Fallon and Ciarra Keane.

• Premium for Sundays and Bank Holidays. • Free meals, tea and coffee. • Paid lunchbreaks. • Pension Scheme facilitated. • Cycle to work scheme available.

Applications, including CVs can be emailed to: office@shannonlodgenursinghome.ie Garda vetting and references will be required.

SITUATIONS WANTED LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

< RETIRED GENERAL NURSE: Looking to provide part-time home care. For further information contact Angela 0044 7778997117

Beth O’Mahony (Suck Valley AC)

Eamonn Coyle (Reeside AC)

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

The St Brigid’s team and subs, pictured on County Final day against Boyle, now have their sights set on defeating Corofin in this Sunday’s Connacht Club final in Dr Hyde Park. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Great final in prospect as St Brigid’s face revitalised Corofin AIB Connacht Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Corofin on Sunday in Dr Hyde Park at 1.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

A mouth-watering Connacht Club senior final brings together two clubs who have enjoyed great success in this competition over the past 15 years, with St Brigid’s of Roscommon meeting Corofin of Galway. Corofin will go into the match as the deserved warm favourites after an impressive return to the top table in Galway football this year. Between them, these two clubs have won no less that 11 Connacht club titles since 2006. They have five All-Ireland titles between them too (four to Corofin), so we are dealing with club football royalty here. Corofin are back on the glory trail after winning the Galway title for the first time since 2019. They have had a tremendous campaign so far, defeating defending champions Moycullen by two points in the Galway final before overcoming Ballina Stephenites by four points in the Connacht semi-final. A number of their players from the multiple All-Ireland titlewinning glory years have retired, but there are still a few familiar faces on their team. Bernard Power is an excellent goalkeeper who has loads of inter-county experience with Galway. Liam Silke has returned from his travels this year and has been superb in every big game throughout the season. Their captain, Dylan McHugh, is also an outstanding performer

in the half-back line while Ronan Steede looks certain to start at midfield. It will be interesting to see if Corofin pick the vastly experienced Daithi Burke in that sector. He has returned to the panel recently which is a huge plus for them. The main man up front is

39-year-old Gary Sice – who has been having a superb championship – while Darragh Silke and Tony Gill are also very dangerous attackers. On the bench there are very familiar names like Michael Farragher, Michael Lundy and Martin Farragher, all of whom bring huge experi-

ence to the table. St Brigid’s will be praying this week that Brian Stack’s injury has been overcome. Stack is a huge inspiration for St Brigid’s and he will be needed to tag Gary Sice. They will need another great performance from Cormac Sheehy between the posts, and once again

3 big head to heads!

to ensure that Ben O’Carroll is not isolated and Ciaran Sugrue, Robbie Dolan, Bobby Nugent and Conor Hand will need to be ready to take their scores when opportunity arises. Of course midfield will be crucial and Shane Cunnane and Eddie Nolan will have to be at their very best to hold Corofin and put their side on the front foot as much as possible.

‘We’re ready for this test’ – Jerome Stack interview, page 46

Brian Stack v Gary Sice If Brian Stack is one hundred per cent fit then there will only be one winner of this match-up, but he is returning from a serious looking knee problem and everyone connected with the St Brigid’s club will be hoping he is firing on all cylinders. To be fair to Sice, he has been having a phenomenal championship and is arguably Corofin’s best player at 39 years of age. If Sice can be held, Corofin’s chances will be much reduced. It’s a huge clash.

Ronan Steede & Patrick Egan/Daithi Burke v Shane Cunnane & Eddie Nolan As always the midfield battle will be crucial. It will be interesting to see if Corofin go with the multi-talented Daithi Burke, who has just returned to their team. Eddie Nolan and Shane Cunnane have been very effective for St Brigid’s this year but will have to be at their best on Sunday.

Liam Silke v Ben O’Carroll It remains to be seen if Corofin will detail Liam Silke to mark the St Brigid’s dangerman, Ben O’Carroll. Silke has been having a superb championship on his return this year but has been playing further up the field despite having number two on his back. Needless to say St Brigid’s will need the very talented O’Carroll to be on song in what promises to be a titanic struggle.

his kick-outs will be crucial. The Brigid’s half-back line of Ruaidhri Fallon, Ronan Stack and Paul McGrath will also have huge roles on Sunday, not just in terms of defending, but also in bolstering their attack when it’s needed. The Brigid’s attackers will have

Eddie Nolan has been a rock in midfield for St Brigid’s all season and will hope to make a big impact in the Connacht Club final on Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Some pundits have been predicting that Corofin will win this game easily, but that’s not going to happen. Football at this time of the year is a bit of a slog, generally low-scoring, with defences on top. It would be foolish to ignore Corofin’s impressive return to this stage of the competition, given their record and the free-flowing football that they like to play. St Brigid’s will have to adapt and they may have to defend in numbers at certain stages of Sunday’s game. I am predicting a very close match. St Brigid’s have every chance, but Corofin’s edge in experience may just swing it in their favour. Prediction: Corofin.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople

‘We have been in tight games, but there’s learnings in that as well’ Reflective and calm St Brigid’s manager Jerome Stack relishing ‘two-horse race’…. < SEAMUS DUKE

Jerome Stack, the Kerry-born manager of St Brigid’s, knows that his side have a big task ahead of them when they face Corofin in the provincial decider on Sunday. He agrees that his charges have not been perfect in the Connacht Championship this year, but the bottom line of course is that they are on a winning streak and in the final on merit. “We would have been very happy with a lot of what we did in the Coolera-Strandhill match from an accuracy point of view. We had a breeze in the first half and we used it very well. That’s not as easy as people think. A lot of people make judgements from outside the wire of how hard it is to play with or against the breeze. A lot of people making those judgements have never played with or against a breeze, or never had to make that decision. “We could have done better in the second half of that game, in terms of the way we managed it. But the bottom line with a lot of these games is that there will be moments when the opposition gain control, either through a bit of momentum, a bit of luck, or simply by playing well. “Against Mohill, the weather conditions were more difficult, for both teams. To be fair to Mohill, they went about their business in a way that made it difficult for us. But it’s not the first time that’s happened this year. “We have been in tight games, but there’s learnings in that as well. You get used to being in situations where it’s not a foregone conclusion. There’s a certain mental skill in that in terms of becoming acclimatised to that sort of environment. You can talk about it

as much as you want, but unless you go through that, you can’t really learn how to deal with it. “I wouldn’t be happy with everything we’ve done this year but the bottom line is that once you come out of the game and you’re through to the next round, I’ll accept it,” he said. Stack says that St Brigid’s’ preparations will not change despite the fact that it is the mighty Corofin that they face on Sunday. “Every game we’ve played this year – from the very first game – there are obviously certain things that we want to do, and that we’ve tried to do. Every game we’ve played, whatever the opposition, we’ve talked about who we’re playing and take into account how we approach things relative to the opposition. “That won’t change for Corofin. They’re just another opposition, obviously a very good opposition. But it’s the same process. You’re digging around seeing can you find something here or there or can you exploit something, or if you can protect something. Every team have got the same preparation and respect from us. It’s not as if Corofin are going to get any more than anybody else, they’ll get the same”. Finally, despite the fact that this is a young St Brigid’s side, the manager is not looking to the future; he wants to win this final on Sunday. “It’s a two-horse race. We’ve earned our right to be in this final and so have Corofin. As far as I’m concerned, we are going out there to win this final. If you’re talking about potentially being in a final in two of three years’ time, I’m not having that. We’re in the final this Sunday and we’ll be doing our very, very best to win that final,” he concluded.

Mullin to succeed Murray at low-key GAA Convention

The annual Roscommon GAA Convention will be held this Monday (4th of December) at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. There is just one position on the executive available and that is the role of secretary as Valerie Murray of Michael Glavey’s is stepping down. The outgoing secretary will be replaced by Brian Mullin of St Croan’s, who is the current assistant secretary. There is only one motion down for discussion which is on a procedural matter. Given the lack of motions and the lack of nominations for officer positions, the meeting is expected to be a short one.

It’s Davy v Jim on the 17th It will be Davy Burke against Jim McGuinness as Roscommon play Donegal in a senior football challenge game in Ballyshannon, County Donegal on Sunday, 17th of December at 1.30 pm. The proceeds of the game will go to the North West Hospice. The Roscommon senior team returned to collective training last weekend.

GAA results AIB Connacht Club Intermediate Football Final Castlerea St Kevin’s 2-4 Monivea-Abbey 0-8

GAA fixtures Sunday, December 3rd AIB Connacht Club Senior Football Final At Dr Hyde Park: St Brigid’s v Corofin. 1.30 pm

Darts

Darts League gathers pace Jerome Stack, manager of St. Brigid’s, is hoping his team can overcome the challenge of Corofin and win the Connacht title on Sunday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

The Hannon’s Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Darts League continues with no let up in the pace across the county. Here are some of our recent results: Round 5: McDermott’s 4 Holly Tree 3 (14 to 13 on legs); Sportsman’s 2 Cosy Bar 5 (9 to 18 on legs); An Bothar Rua 4 Flanagan’s 3 (5-3 on bonus points – 14 to 12 on legs); Village Inn 3 Dalton’s 4 (13 to 13 on legs); Hollywood 2-5 Spells (2-6 on bonus points – 18 to 9 on legs).

Christmas Singles

Castlerea fans ready to welcome the new Connacht Intermediate champions back home after Castlerea St Kevin’s defeated Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Maura Conroy, Katelyn Flanagan, Maggie Birmingham and Jemma Flanagan flying the flag for Castlerea after St Kevin’s defeated Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

It’s that time of year again with the Annual Christmas Singles Competition being played in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on this Sunday, 3rd of December. This competition is open to Roscommon League and Youth players, or those who have played in the league previously, with a €10 entry fee for adults and €5 entry for youths. Names are to be in by 3.15 pm sharp, with the draw at 3.30 pm and games to begin at 4 pm sharp. Prize money will be Money In/Money Out plus €200. There will be an open draw after every round and the format is best of 9x501 up to the board finals. Quarter-finals and semi-finals are best of 11x501. Final is best of 13x501. All are welcome to one of the most enjoyable darts events of the year!

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople Soccer fixtures Friday, December 1st RDFL Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round One Kilkerrin Utd v Skyvalley Rovers. 8 pm RDFL Premier Division Shiven Rovers v CP Ajax. 8 pm Moore Utd v St John’s Athletic. 8 pm

Saturday, December 2nd RDFL Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round One Cam/Dysart v Dunmore Town. 7 pm

Sunday, December 3rd RDFL Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Round One St John’s Athletic B v Ballymoe. 11 am Ballinagare Manor v Roscommon Utd. 11 am St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh v Cloonfad Utd. 2 pm Glen Celtic v Ballaghaderreen B. 2 pm RDFL Women’s Challenge Cup Round One Shiven Rovers v St Cuan’s Utd/ Ahascragh. 2 pm Cam Celtic v Ballaghaderreen. 2 pm Castlerea Celtic v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm RDFL Premier Division Ballaghaderreen v Castlerea Celtic. 11 am Ballinasloe Town v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm

Short putts

THE GAIN LINE Good win for Creggs 1sts

Creggs RFC Report

University of Galway 7 Creggs 38: The scoreline suggests this was a simple victory for Creggs 1sts in the Connacht J1A League last weekend, but in fact the home side dominated possession for large periods of the match. Creggs started strongly in perfect playing conditions with a try from Mark Purcell which was converted by his brother, Shane. They soon crossed the line again through front row forward Tom Farrell after good support work by teammates James Brandon and Tom Callaghan. Shane Purcell converted, but the college side sprung into life and dominated the remainder of the first half. The Creggs defence stood firm with good tackling from Danny Arnold, Eoghan Coyle, Brian Diffley and Tom Farrell. Then a turnover from the home team saw Mark Dowd pass to Shane Purcell who released Mark Purcell down the right wing. The centre linked with Ojani Lalogafu who expertly cut inside and left defenders in his wake for our third try. Shane Purcell converted, leaving Creggs 21 points ahead at half-time. The second half saw the Galway city side finally rewarded when some weak defence allowed University of Galway to score under the posts. However, Creggs responded with a

great team try from Kieran Purcell after good link play by Ronan Dowd, Chris Duignan and scrum-half Cormac Dolan, the latter making an impression on his debut for the first team. Creggs made some further changes and prop forward Tommy Curley made a huge impact off the bench, charging over the line for two further tries with support from players such as Mikey Dunne, Ronan Cahill and Chris Duignan. It left the final score at 38-7. Creggs now look forward to a home game v Tuam on the weekend after next. J1C League: Creggs 2nds 53 Our Lady’s Boys Club 12. A blistering first-half display laid the foundations for Creggs’ emphatic victory over OLBC in a highly entertaining game at Creggs. Creggs played some brilliant rugby. Creggs have a break this weekend before two games against Carrick and Tuam which will provide a serious test for this rapidly improving group. Squad: Ger Comer, Michael Dunne, Padraig Geraghty, Jack Fleming, Michael Farrell, Mark Brandon, Cormac Dolan, Matthew Curley, Enda Tully, Tommy Curley, Eoghan Farrell, Luke Divilly, Leon Doyle, Lee Kilcoyne, Eoin Kelly, Mike Sampier, Luke Meehan, Sean O’Roarke, Aodan Kelly, Darren

Gately, Michael Holland and Gearoid Egan. Boys U-13s: Creggs RFC U-13s travelled to Westport on Saturday. Creggs opened the scoring with an Eoin Callaghan try, converted by Harry Trimble. Westport responded with a try but Creggs got back on track with Harry McDermott getting across the line twice. Creggs led 17 to 10 at half-time. Creggs’ dominance showed in the second half with tries from Harry Feeley and Ryan Sharkey and conversions from Harry Trimble and Charlie Madden helping them to a 57-15 win. Girls U-14s: The U-14 girls travelled to Ballina on Saturday for a league game. Our scorers on the day were Ella Gannon, Ally Hegarty, Isabelly Sassuarana, Clodagh Finneran, Mariah McSharry, Lily Richardson, Emer Timon and Darcy Thorose. There were conversions from Alice Featherstone and Claire Featherstone. This team continues to improve. Well done, girls. Boys U-16 Division 2: Creggs boys U-16 Tier 2 team played their final league game on Saturday, 25th of November, at home against Loughrea RFC. Creggs played some great rugby but just lost out, 25-20. This again was an improved

performance by the Tier 2 U-16 team who are learning all the time. Well done, boys. Mini Rugby: Creggs minis welcomed Westport RFC Boys U-9s, U-10s, U-11s and U-12s to Creggs on Saturday. Over 100 travelled and played a few games each. The other Creggs minis had a training session. Thanks to all parents and families for attending. Congratulations: Congratulations to our U-13s Boys coach and committee member, Kenneth Loughrey (also a Connacht referee), who graduated from University of Galway with a Bsc in Science and Technology. Lotto + membership: The club’s lotto jackpot was not won. Our lucky dip winner was Liam Callaghan. Next week’s jackpot is €11000, a nice Christmas present! Please support the club by joining the lotto. Members of the club get a reduction of 30% annually once they pay membership. Membership is open until this Thursday (30th) and can be done online. If membership is not paid by that date you are no longer allowed play or train. If you have any issues online contact your coach or committee member who will assist https://creggsrfc.clubforce.com/ products/membership

(News from local golf clubs)

ATHLONE Women’s results – 12-hole Club Stableford Competition (Saturday 18th, Sunday 19th and Tuesday, 21st of November 2023) – 1st: Jean McGowan (34) 21 pts; 2nd: Kathleen McDonnell (26) 19 pts (Bk9); 3rd: Yvonne Walsh (14) 19 pts (Bk 9); 4th: Angela Veldon (27) 19 pts. ‘97 Club results (Thursday, 23rd of November) – 1st: Angela Veldon 24 pts (Bk6); 2nd: Anne Egan Farrell 24 pts.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON The AGM of the Gents club was held on last Friday night. The outgoing Captain thanked all the various officers and committee and members for their support and help over the past year. He also wished the incoming Captain Paul Reid and his team good luck for 2024. The following officers and committee were elected for the coming year – Captain: Paul Reid; Vice-Captain: Hugh Gralton; Secretary: Paul Kelleher; Competitions Secretary: Chris Lowe; Handicap Secretary: Alan Ffrench; Junior Convenor: Paul O’Brien; Gents Committee: David McDermott, Leo Noone, Frank Duffy, Gerry McDermott, Gordon Kavanagh, Tom McGuinness, Brendan Boyle ex-offico. Lotto results: The Lotto jackpot is €1525. This week’s winner of €30 was Dylan Beirne. If you would like to join the lotto please contact Sheila Carney or Ann Cox. Parent Club AGM: The Parent Club AGM will be held on Friday, December 1st at 8 pm in the clubhouse. Can all members please try to attend.

The Creggs’ girls U-14s, who played Ballina recently.

BUCCANEERS RFC

Buccaneers play Naas on Saturday

Buccaneers head to Forenaughts this Saturday where they square up to Naas in the seventh round of the Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm. Nothing less than one hundred per cent industry and discipline will suffice if Buccs are to make it three wins in a row. Loughrea 17 Buccaneers 36: Buccaneers Seconds remain in top spot of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1B League following a 36-17 victory away to Loughrea on Saturday. Another bonus point win was achieved but it was not as clearcut as the final scoreline suggests.

Loughrea may be anchored at the bottom of this division but they really made a match of it in the opening half when the Athlone side were perhaps complacent. But once the Pirates got over their sluggish start, they took control of the proceedings to fashion a merited win against the luckless hosts. U-20s: Buccaneers U-20s slipped to another avoidable defeat when losing 33-24 to Dublin University’s second string in their JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 fixture at a cold but dry Dubarry Park on Saturday. This has been a frustrating cam-

paign to date for the young Pirates, who have consistently let opponents off the hook. Although missing a raft of players, this was another occasion when they should have collected more than the try bonus point secured. Seconds: Buccaneers Seconds and their Corinthians counterparts renew rivalry in the final of the Curley Cup at Ballyhaunis this Sunday. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm. This should be a really competitive decider as there is little between the teams. U-20s: Buccaneers U-20s host Wanderers in the JP Fanagan

Leinster League Premier 2 division at Dubarry Park on Sunday with a 2 pm kick-off. U-14 Girls: Buccaneers U-14 Girls faced a tough challenge in chilly Westport on Saturday morning. A 54-27 win for Buccaneers was a very pleasing result against one of the best tier 1 clubs in Connacht. This weekend we are away in Ballina. We will all be buzzing at training in anticipation of another superb team performance – and have got one new legendary supporter in Paul O’Connell!

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople

Weekend Grade 1 racing at Fairyhouse on Sunday Horses for Courses Racing this weekend begins this afternoon (Thursday) over the jumps at Thurles in Co. Tipperary, with tapes away for the first at 12.10 pm. Tomorrow evening (Friday) racing on the allweather at Dundalk starts at 5.30 pm. On Saturday, the first of a 2-day Fairyhouse Winter Festival takes place with an 11.45 pm start on

Willie Mullins will be hoping Impaire Et Passe (4/6 favourite) can deliver in the Hatton’s Grace at Fairyhouse on Sunday.

by Tom Red

the Saturday, featuring the Listed EasyFix Equine Chase and the Grade 3 WillowWarm Hurdle. On Sunday, racing starts at 11.55 pm with three Grade 1 races: the Royal Bond Novice Hurdle, the Drinmore Novice Chase, and the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, on a card which is fully sponsored by Bar One Racing. The going at Fairyhouse is soft at the moment but fresh ground will be available each day. There are seven horses left in the Hatton’s Grace on Sunday and it looks to be a 2-horse race with Willie Mullins’ Impaire Et Passe (4/6 favourite) and Gordon Elliott’s Teahupoo at 2/1 (8/1 bar). The Royal Bond has nine entries, with Henry de Bromhead’s An Tobar and Gavin Cromwell’s Encanto Bruno trading at 9/4 joint favourites, while de Bromhead also trains the 3rd favourite, Slade Steel. An interesting entry here is Paul Gilligan’s Cheltenham winner last weekend, Buddy One (if he runs). Elliott trains three, WP Mullins two and Tom Mullins one. The Drinmore is also an open race with Cromwell’s Letsbeclearaboutit favourite at 7/4, WP’s Sharjah 9/4 and Elliott’s Found A Fifty at 11/4. Only three stables have runners (Elliott 3, Cromwell and Mullins 2 apiece). Elliott’s American Mike, fresh from his win at Navan last weekend, might have found his way at long last and has a squeak at 8/1.

Mulryan’s winner

In the John Durkan in Punchestown last Sunday, Sean Mulryan’s Fastorslow, trained by Martin Brassil, confirmed the potential shown in the Punchestown Gold by beating WP Mullins’ Galopin Des Champs who only managed 3rd, with his stablemate Appreciate It dividing the pair. Hopefully the Rossies will be represented in next year’s Gold Cup. It was another successful weekend for Elliott who trained four winners on Saturday and three more on Sunday at Punchestown.

Racing on TV

Terrestrial television coverage on Saturday is from Newbury and Newcastle, with four races from Newbury and two from Newcastle including the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle on ITV. RTE 1 is covering Fairyhouse on Sunday.

Racing news

The recent threat of wind and rain has passed, but now racing is threatened by ‘Jack Frost’, with the cards at Newcastle and Newbury on Saturday in danger. History was made in British racing this week as the Pam Sly-trained Mixedwave became the first winner to be disqualified under the new whip rules after Alex Edwards used his whip 16 times at Market Rasen last week – that’s nine above the permit-

Roscommon native Sean Mulryan’s Fastorslow won the John Durkan in Punchestown last Sunday.

ted level (seven is allowed in NH racing). Legendary course bookmaker David Hyland passed away this week, aged 67, following a battle with cancer. Hyland was a fearless layer who loved to take on the big-hitting punters with regularity before the advent of online betting. He is survived by his wife Collette, brothers Francis (also a course bookmaker), Robert and John and his sister Marguerite. RIP. Galway native Graham Lee continues to make progress in hospital. He has been moved to the Spinal Unit at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough where he will be much nearer his home. While he is making progress, his recovery will be a long rehabilitation process. We wish him a speedy recovery.

SPORTS DESK Paul Healy

Terry – likeable cross between Del Boy and Brian Clough By 1996, the stain on English football’s reputation created by hooliganism had largely been removed. That year, England hosted the European Championship, something the authorities would never have allowed a few years earlier. I have a clear memory – not distorted by a romantic view of times past – of Euro 96 being an enjoyable tournament, one that certainly created a huge feelgood factor in England, as least as long as the home team’s exciting march towards possible glory continued. Even in Ireland, where historically we’ve always been very adept at willing England to fall flat on their face, it was possible to like the team of ’96. Paul Gascoigne probably had a lot to do with that; so did Terry Venables, England’s ‘wide boy’ manager who seemed to be some likeable cross between Del Boy, Brian Clough, and the wise-cracking guy down the pub. Not everyone liked Venables, but I did, mainly because of his cheeky chap persona – there was an edge to him, an arrogance that was charming. He had a sense of humour, a

glint in his eye. In later years, a whiff of controversy was never too far away, with ‘El Tel’ often in trouble with the authorities. But it was easy to have a soft spot for him. At club level, he managed a number of teams in different countries, making his name with Crystal Palace, and having notably successful spells at Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur. He even had the honour of being Leeds manager for a while. There were times when his confidence morphed into cockiness, but so be it. He was one of English football’s greatest characters for many years, but behind all the Del Boy-like image much loved by the tabloids, it’s important to acknowledge that Terry Venables was a gifted manager and coach, an original thinker, an innovative football man who was ahead of his time. Back in 1996, my brotherin-law and I sat in a pub in Sligo and watched Venables’ exciting England team play Germany in the European Championship semi-final. England had great momentum then, with Gascoigne and Shearer amongst their stars. I wanted them to make the final, and they came so close, taking the lead (Shearer) before Germany equalised and brought the game to extra-time, during which Gascoigne missed a

great chance and Darren Anderton hit a post. The Germans won the resultant penalty shootout, with current England manager Gareth Southgate missing from the spot (as any player can). It was not to be for England. This was the tournament of the ‘Football’s Coming Home’ anthem, written by comedians Frank Skinner and David Baddiel. But football didn’t ‘come home’ in 1996. Terry Venables had gone as close as anyone else to returning England to something like the status of 1966. After ’96, Venables never reached the management heights of the previous 20 years or so (he was only 33 when appointed Crystal Palace manager). I was saddened to hear of his death last Saturday, aged

80, which followed a long illness. A bright light has been dimmed with his passing. He was colourful, and also gifted and inspirational, as the warm tributes to him indicate. May ‘El Tel’ rest in peace.

Super Saturday for Castlerea heroes

Congratulations to Castlerea St Kevin’s, proudly standing at the summit of Connacht (Intermediate) Club football following a great win against Monivea-Abbey in last weekend’s provincial final. Castlerea’s exploits this season have been followed with great interest by GAA supporters countywide, and I know that other clubs throughout the county are delighted with their

success. Castlerea’s Connacht title win is of course first and foremost a source of great pride to all at the club and in the wider Castlerea community. Manager Dara Bruen, his management colleagues and the players, all deserve great credit after notably disciplined and single-minded county and provincial campaigns. They’ve come through close games, showing impressive resilience along the way.

Exciting Premier League race

Whisper it… but could this season’s Premier League title race turn out to be much closer than the pundits expected? And maybe not the two-horse race many foresaw? Before the season began, most experts felt that obvious

favourites Manchester City – winners of five of the last six titles – could potentially win it in a canter. Arsenal, runnersup last season, were seen by many observers (not all) as the only likely challengers to City. One-third of the season in, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting race. Arsenal are top (30 points), followed by Manchester City (29), a resurgent Liverpool (28), Aston Villa (also on 28 points, and performing sensationally for a second year in a row under Unai Emery), with Tottenham Hotspur back in fifth, on 26 points. Even Manchester United, finally finding some consistent form, are arguably not out of contention, just six points behind the leaders (on 24 points). Realistically, it’s probably between Manchester City and Arsenal, with Pep’s men still the favourites, and Liverpool in the role of dark horses.

Brilliant Katie bounces back

Congratulations to Katie Taylor, who lifted the national mood (yet again) with a stunning victory over the previously undefeated Chantelle Cameron in a predictably bruising world title fight in the 3Arena on Saturday night. What a phenomenon this woman is. Now aged 37, she has bounced back from losing to Cameron earlier this year to sensationally make it 1-1 in their head to heads, while in the process becoming a world champion at two different weights. More of my views on Katie in my column on page 6.

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople

Danny’s delight

Bruen hails ‘backs to the wall’ heroics

The management team/coaches from Castlerea St Kevin’s pictured with the cup after winning the Connacht Intermediate Football final last Saturday in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

< SEAMUS DUKE

Amidst the joyful mayhem of the celebrations on the field after the final whistle, Castlerea manager Dara Bruen spoke of his pride at the manner in which his side had battled on the day. “What a ‘backs to the wall’ performance that was. Again, the goals were crucial. Every time we scored a goal or two in 2023 we went on to win the game and that happened again today. But our defence

was also fantastic in the second half. We dealt with everything they threw at us, we rode our luck too, but you need a bit of luck to win a final. We are absolutely thrilled”. Bruen agreed that it has been a momentous year for the club. “We won the Division One U-16 title, Division Two minor, are county intermediate champions and now Connacht champions. All I can say is that this club is going in the right direction.

“There is a lot of work being done by people who are never mentioned at all. I am just the one that talks to the likes of ye (the local media) but those people are the ones who deserve the credit for days like today”. In that vein, the Castlerea manager paid tribute to his management team and the job they have done this year. “I couldn’t praise my management team highly enough. There are ten or eleven of us who have put in a massive effort. We

are all volunteers here and it’s great to see the club progressing”. The manager also stressed that it was some of the lesser known players on the team that had stepped up to the plate to help secure the victory. “Everyone was so committed to the cause there today and I am thrilled for those lads. To a man they fought so hard for the cause and they deserve their success. I am delighted for them” he concluded.

The last time that Castlerea St Kevin’s won a Connacht club football title was in 1968 and the manager then was none other than club legend Danny Burke. Danny was never going to miss this latest prospect of a historic win for Castlerea, so needless to say he was in Tuam Stadium to cheer the club to victory 55 years after that 1968 win. Speaking to the Roscommon People in Tuam, Danny said: “It’s fantastic to see this here today. I was the manager of the Castlerea team who won the Connacht senior title in 1968 when we beat Ballinamore in the final. “It was great to be here today. We made a lot of mistakes but we kept going and it was mighty to win it. We are all delighted”. Danny is thrilled to see his beloved club on the rise after a number of years in the doldrums. “It’s great to see the club going well again and hopefully we will continue to improve over the next few years” he concluded.

Ruairi and Eoghan O’Connell from Castlerea St Kevin’s pictured with family members and the Connacht IFC cup last Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

(Above) David Finneran of Castlerea St Kevin’s celebrates with some young fans after St Kevin’s defeated Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

(Right) Ollie Finneran, one of the Castlerea St Kevin’s coaches, pictured with Mick O’Donnell after St Kevin’s defeated Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

David and Ollie Finneran pictured with fans after St Kevin’s defeated Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople Michael Conroy, captain of Castlerea St Kevin’s, pictured holding the Connacht Intermediate Football Championship cup and his Man of the Match award after last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final victory. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Jack McDermott, Padraig Joyce and Frank Hester from Castlerea St Kevin’s celebrate after defeating Monivea-Abbey in last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final in Tuam. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Castlerea’s Connacht glory Stat Attack Wides: Castlerea St Kevin’s 3 (2, first half); MoniveaAbbey 7 (3, first half)

Timely goals and great defending key to historic win AIB Connacht Club IFC final

Red cards: 0

Castlerea St Kevin’s 2-4 Monivea-Abbey 0-8

Black cards: 0

< SEAMUS DUKE

Yellow cards: Castlerea St Kevin’s 4 (David Quinn, Nathan Bligh, Shane Keenan, Peter Farrell); Monivea-Abbey 1 (Caelum Murray)

A fantastic year for Castlerea St Kevin’s ended with another fantastic victory, this time at Tuam Stadium last Saturday afternoon when the Roscommon representatives won the Connacht Intermediate

Man of the Match: Michael Conroy (Castlerea St Kevin’s) Attendance: Approx. 2,000

football title following a titanic struggle against Galway champions Monivea-Abbey. Once again goals were key for Dara Bruen’s side, with strikes from Eoghan O’Connell and Nathan Bligh early in each half proving crucial. Such timely three-pointers in winter conditions meant Castlerea would be very hard to overcome on the day, and so it proved. But there was more to

this remarkable victory than those golden goals. Castlerea withstood a fierce onslaught from Monivea-Abbey in the final ten minutes, during which they defended heroically to a man. Most notably, their goalkeeper David Farrell made a spectacular save with three minutes to go to keep his side ahead. It was nerve-racking stuff but Castlerea emerged victorious after a fierce battle.

On a cold but dry day (with very little wind) the big crowd created a great atmosphere in Tuam. It was Castlerea who started best, a goal in the 4th minute being the first score of the game. After making a tremendous run, Adam McDermott released Eoghan O’Connell at just the right time, and the latter shot low and hard into the bottom corner. When Adam McDermott added a 7th minute free

The Castlerea St Kevin’s bench pictured during the very tense final moments of last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final against Monivea-Abbey in Tuam Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

it was just the start that Castlerea would have been hoping for. Monivea-Abbey got going after that, and with Cathal Cooley particularly impressive, they had much more possession as the half wore on. Points from Cooley and Lee Kenny narrowed the gap to two by the 13th minute. Castlerea’s dangerman Adam McDermott kicked a super point from play a minute later,

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

SportsPeople

The Castlerea St Kevin’s panel and management celebrate with the cup after winning the Connacht Intermediate Football final last Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

before Glen Kelly pointed a long-range free to leave the margin at two again (1-2 to 0-3) by the 16th minute. Monivea-Abbey were having lots of possession but Castlerea were defending well and scores were hard to come by for both sides. Then in the 26th minute Adam McDermott burst through, and was one on one with the goalkeeper. Another Castlerea goal looked a certainty, but the Monivea-Abbey custodian Denis Farragher made a super save at the expense of a ’45. As it was, McDermott pointed a 28th minute free and the sides went it a half-time with Castlerea ahead by 1-3 to 0-3.

There was much more urgency from the Galway champions on the resumption of play. They tacked on two points within three minutes, the scores coming from Fionnan Garvey and Glen Kelly. Now the margin was just one. Then, just when Monivea-Abbey were looking dangerous, Castlerea struck for another goal. Sub Nathan Bligh kicked long and high from the right touchline. Unfortunately for him, Monivea-Abbey goalkeeper (Farragher) misjudged the flight of the ball and it flew into the top corner. Now Castlerea has re-established a decent lead (2-3 to 0-5)

and had something to hold on to and defend. Monivea-Abbey, who were winning more of the ball now, edged closer with points from Niall Mannion and a Glen Kelly free, meaning that by the 42nd minute it was 2-3 to 0-7. Darren McDermott pointed a nerve-settling Castlerea free from 20 metres in the 43rd minute, a score which was

to prove to be Castlerea’s last of the game. Thereafter, with Castlerea three in front, MoniveaAbbey laid siege on the Roscommon champions’ goal. It may not have been open, attacking football but it was fascinating stuff as Castlerea defended with their lives. Jack Keane, David Finneran, Sean Joyce, Niall Connaughton and team captain Michael

Conroy were particularly heroic as they repelled the Galway men time after time. All Monivea-Abbey had to show for their efforts during this tense phase was a converted free from Glen Kelly, the gap now down to two. Then, with three minutes to go, David Farrell was the Castlerea hero. Darragh Burke’s deflected shot looked like it was head-

ing for the top corner, but somehow Farrell was able to dive full-length and claw it away at the expense of a ’45. When that happened, you really sensed that it was going to be Castlerea’s day. St Kevin’s duly held out for victory, the final whistle sparking scenes of great celebrations as hundreds of Castlerea supporters joined their heroes on the field at

Teams & scorers

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Tuam Stadium. The last time that Castlerea St Kevin’s won a Connacht club title it was at senior level, back in 1968. After the tremendous momentum of recent months – marked by great determination and considerable quality – the hope will now be that the exploits and success of 2023 will be the start of another golden era for the club.

Adam McDermott from Castlerea St Kevin’s celebrates a score during last Saturday’s Connacht Intermediate Football final against Monivea-Abbey in Tuam Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Castlerea St Kevin’s: David Farrell; David Finneran, Jack Keane, Thomas Callaghan; Padraig Joyce, Sean Joyce, Niall Connaughton; Michael Conroy, David Quinn; Eoghan O’Connell (1-0), Adam McDermott (0-3, 2 frees), Donal Brennan; Darren McDermott (0-1, free), Shane Keenan, Peter Farrell. Subs: Nathan Bligh (1-0) for P Joyce (34), Adam McDermott for P Farrell (43), Sean Carroll for Brennan (51), Jonathan Hester for D McDermott (61). Monivea-Abbey: Denis Farragher; Fionnan Garvey (0-1), Caelum Mulry, Keith O’Reilly; Darragh Burke, Cathal Cooley (0-1), Cian Dolan; Trevor Mullins, Paul Flaherty; Niall Mannion (0-1), Lee Kenny (0-1), Phil Muldowney; Paddy Mullins, Matt Cosgrove, Glen Kelly (0-4, 3 frees). Subs: Brian Flaherty for Dolan (31), Daire King for P Mullins (51), Jamie Collins for Cosgrove (61), Jamie Burke for Garvey (63). Referee: Michael McGirl (Leitrim).

Roscommon People Friday 01 December 2023

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