08 July 2022 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

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e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Hey, it’s my A-Z of self-help tips (but what to do about ‘Z’) So, my friend…exciting news! Huh? I’ve big plans for a self-help book! Brilliant! To read one? No! To write one!

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

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I would like to burn some overgrown hedgerows on my land but I am anxious not to fall foul of any law prohibiting this. I understand that I cannot burn vegetation at certain times of the year but I am not sure what dates are restricted. Please advise me. Section 40 of the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012 prohibits the cutting, grubbing, burning or destruction of vegetation, with certain strict exemptions, from 1 March to 31 August during the nesting and breeding season for birds and wildlife. Vegetation such as hedgerows and scrub is important as wildlife habitat and needs to be managed in the interests of both farming and biodiversity and therefore a review of the current legislation was initiated to ensure that it remains both effective and balanced. Farmers may be considered ineligible for payment under Department schemes, including Basic Payment Scheme, GLAS and other area based schemes if vegetation on land is found to have been burned outside of the legal season. The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has initiated many prosecutions in recent years relating to individuals for breaches of section 40 of the Wildlife Act for the burning of gorse and vegetation. Fines were imposed in all cases and said fines ranged from €50 to €600. In some cases, those prosecuted were ordered by the court to pay legal costs and expenses. Members of An Garda Síochána are also authorised officers to prosecute breaches of the Wildlife Acts. Further, under Section 39 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, if you intend burning within one mile of a forest which you do not own, you must notify your local Garda Station and the forest owner, who has the right to object by counter-notice, at least seven days in advance, in writing. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in you being held responsible for the loss of a neighbouring plantation. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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(Editor rolls his eyes, checks for Boris updates on phone)

CYCLING ACCIDENT

My A-Z of self-help tips! REALLY? If you were involved in a cycling Yep! Everyone’s into self-help these days! contact Andaccident self-development! Byrne Carolan And you’re seriously writing a book on it? A Cunningham book on how Solicitors to help yourself? Yes…if you’ll help me! Oh dear! Can you guess what A is for? I fear this is going to be a long day… These are all based on my life experiences… Even worse than I thought… So, A is for…An… Analysis? Analyse what area of your life you’d like to improve, write out a list… No, AUNTS! Be kind to your aunts, they’re pearls of wisdom! Oh dear… B is for br… Bravery? Brazen…it pays to be brazen sometimes! C is for… Courteous? Confidence…believe in yourself! D is for do… Do nice things for people and they’ll do nice things for you?

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

I think this is getting ridiculous… (Editor to self: First sensible thing that’s been said in the entire column; I need to talk to Brolly now!) F is for… I’m not sure I want to know… Fa… Family? Fame! Everyone wants a bit of fame! It’s the modern world! Haven’t you heard of TikTok?! Sorry, still researching the complexities of Facebook…anyways, you’re obviously having me on…any other news? There is no other news! This is big! The cost of living crisis is big! The weekend hurling was big! Boris is in big trouble (checks to see if he’s gone yet)… Can we move on to G?! No! I can’t believe I’ve put up with so much of this already… (Editor to self: You and me, boyo…)

Donations. In this case, I’ll be looking for donations in order to self-publish. Can I put you down for a grand? E is for…em… Empathy? No, just em…I can’t remember what e is for. Oh yes, entitlement. Oh no, that’s from the first draft. Sorry, this is still a work in progress. Anyways, what do you think?

There’s only 20 more letters to go… That’s what Boris Johnson’s secretary said to him… Good one! Seriously, can we talk later? I’m home for the evening. Maybe connect with me on Zoom! (Sarcastically) Brilliant! Thanks so much! Huh? That’s it! You’ve given me my final tip! Embrace Zoom! I had no idea how I was going to fit ‘Z’ in!

PEOPLE writing headlines… Sajid Javid & Rishi Sunak This time it must be the end of Boris Johnson’s days as UK PM after the rapid-fire (clearly orchestrated, despite denials!) resignations of Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Tuesday… these were followed by a string

PIC OF THE WEEK: Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Emma Tilson, Liam Fleming, Isobel and William Tilson. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

of lower profile resignations, all of which must signal the end for Johnson (as we go to press on Wednesday night he’s hanging on, metaphorically imprisoning himself in a wine cellar at the back of the private quarters in Number 10)…

Micheál Martin The Taoiseach travelled to Kyiv

on Wednesday to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the war in Ukraine continues

for Manchester City (for around €49m) and Gabriel Jesus left the champions (that’s City) to move to Arsenal in a €52.5m deal

Kalvin Phillips & Gabriel Jesus

Michael O’Leary

As the Premier League offseason transfer activity gathers momentum, Phillips left Leeds

O’Leary is “annoyingly the voice of reason” on the Dublin Airport woes according to Shane Ross in the Sunday Independent

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

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Chamber President calls for new members ahead of AGM

< DAN DOONER

Roscommon Chamber President Brendan Allen has called for prospective new members to put their names forward ahead of the group’s AGM on Wednesday next (July 13th). “This is a new post-pandemic era for the Chamber and so it’s important to get off on the right foot as

Roscommon continues to recover from the effects of Covid-19 lockdowns,” Brendan said. “With this in mind, we are calling on local business representatives to get involved in the Chamber in the hope of getting fresh views and ideas as well as a renewed energy. “The Chamber will establish two sub-committees this year and they will be

involved in various initiatives around the town. “This is an exciting new era for the Chamber and those who would like to be part of it are welcome to attend next Wednesday’s AGM which takes place at Gleeson’s Restaurant and Rooms, starting at 8 pm”. Brendan also welcomed confirmation that the AllIreland Minor final between Galway and Mayo

will take place at Dr. Hyde Park this Friday evening (July 8th). “The local hospitality sector is the main beneficiary of that and it certainly deserves it after what local businesses went through during the pandemic,” he said. “Most people will say that when matches are on in town it’s a bumper day for local businesses and of

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course for the town itself. That’s one of the great things about the GAA; when Roscommon supporters travel they spend money in other towns so it’s great to be able to host such a big match here. “Also, it will be great to see Mayo and Galway people coming into the town and enjoying Roscommon because it’s a good town for days like this”.

newsbriefs Brideswell Pattern Festival celebration Brideswell Pattern Festival are pleased to welcome the Pattern Mass back to Brideswell village. The Mass, taking place at 12.30 pm on July 31st, will be concelebrated by Bishop Kevin Doran. Following Mass, the Brideswell National School Parents Association has invited the public to the marquee for tea, coffee, and cake. There will be free kids’ entertainment and a kids’ tractor run (bring your own), as well as marquee entertainment and our first Parish Fittest Family competition. All are welcome to attend, so come along on the day to join in the fun. For more information, find Brideswell Pattern Festival on Facebook.

Kilcooley Cemetery Mass Kilcooley Cemetery Mass will be celebrated at 11.30 am on Sunday, July 10th. All are welcome to attend.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Fundraiser for Mulhern Park this Saturday This Saturday sees the Fuerty Executive Committee, led by chairperson Gerry Wynne, organise a giant fundraiser for the continued development of Mulhern Park. The fundraiser will be held in Dalton’s Bar and Restaurant from 9 pm. The fundraiser, which will follow an ‘80s music theme,

promises to be a huge night for the local community. A giant auction will take place, supported widely by the local businesses, and there will be food available on the night. If you cannot make it on the night, pre-bids on the auction items can be made by calling 086 7380118 or 087952 4866.

Pictured at Roscommon Races Ladies’ Day were Best Dressed Lady Catherine Ryan from Athlone, Judges Leonie Morelli and Hailey Coleman, Shane Fleming, Anthony Cahill, Padraig Glancy and Bernard Keane of SuperValu Roscommon (Ladies’ Day sponsors). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Ardcarne Garden Centre Ardcarne Garden Café is located in the Boyle branch of Ardcarne Garden Centre and provides a range of healthy, homemade lunches, snacks and desserts, as well as a selection of beverages. Indoor and covered outdoor dining options are available in a relaxing cosy setting.

Ardcarne Garden Café

(Boyle & Roscommon Town) Since it first opened in 1986 Ardcarne Garden Centre has become a byword for all things gardening. Located just off the N4, between Boyle and Carrick on Shannon, the garden centre has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the country’s top garden centres, thanks to the vision of owner Ronan O’Conghaile and General Manager Mary Frances Dwyer. Spreading this passion for gardening, a second branch opened in Roscommon Town during 1998 and is a much-loved oasis of horticultural expertise and inspiration in the bustling county town. Whether you are new to gardening, a green fingered expert or simply want to improve your outdoor space, you will always find much to enjoy and inspire during your visit to Ardcarne Garden Centre.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Friday-Sunday When we arrived at Rossaveel port in Connemara for our ferry crossing on Friday evening, the man on parking duty stooped and looked in our car window, then readjusted his cap, before asking: “Are ye going abroad?” That greeting alone was enough to have you lamenting much that we were denied over the past two years or so. 20 minutes later, and having joined up with friends, we were sailing to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, armed with happy memories of our last trip there, in 2019. After checking into our lovely B&B (Port Aran House), a nice walk brought us to Joe Watty’s Bar & Restaurant on the edge of Kilronan Village, where we had a beautiful meal and a very enjoyable night. It was lovely over the following 40 hours or so to see such vibrancy on the island, with large numbers of tourists again exploring and enjoying the peacefulness, beauty and heritage of this entrancing place. The warm sunshine on Saturday was a nice bonus. We took a tour of the island with one of the many friendly local men who have diversified and become knowledgeable tour guides. Inis Mór boasts many ancient site and ruins, as well as stunning landscape, including beautiful beaches and spectacular views. A climb to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa – located on a high cliff – is recommended. On Saturday evening, we enjoyed a lovely Dinner in the Bayview restaurant, and then had to call to the atmospheric traditional pub, Joe Mac’s, before ending the night back in our Inis Mór local, Joe Watty’s. After two ‘lost summers’ that must have been so hard on the 800-strong community – for whom tourism is critically important – I was delighted to see hundreds of visitors cycling, walking, and enjoying the bus tours or horse & cart trips. As on our last visit, the locals were very friendly and welcoming. The island is a beautiful, relaxing place to visit. Nature is showcased in all its majesty, and you have the time to appreciate it. That’s because life slows there, and one is all the better for that. Adrift from the mainland, the islanders still appear to have all they need in order to be self-sufficient. Well, either they have it or they have the plan in place to get it in! The history and ongoing story of these islands and the generations of families who’ve inhabited them is fascinating. After a lovely weekend, we disembarked at Rossaveel at about 4.50 on Sunday afternoon. When I drove up to the ‘exit station’ and presented my ticket to make the payment, the

Champion jockey Rachael Blackmore pictured at Roscommon Races on Monday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

same twinkle-eyed man in the cap who was there on Friday was on duty again. “Well, who’s winning the match now?” he asked, “Limerick were a point up a minute ago”.

Monday/Tuesday Apart from binging on some Netflix shows, I also enjoyed quite a lot of the JP McManus Pro-Am at Adare Manor (on Virgin Media). This was great entertainment, with the world’s top golfers in very relaxed form as they teamed up with amateurs from the worlds of showbiz, sport, business and local golf clubs. This was a success on many fronts…for local charities, for golf fans, and for Limerick and the Mid-West region. The Pro-Am was also aired on The Golf Channel and online, and the sensational shots of Adare Manor will ensure significant tourism dividends. The commentary team – which included the phenomenon that is Paul McGinley – showcased the location and region at every opportunity (Adare Manor Golf Club has already been selected to host the 2027 Ryder Cup). As an advertisement for Irish golf and for Ireland as a tourism location, this was spectacular. What was most enjoyable for viewers was the interaction between the golfing superstars, celebrities and spectators. Once again, it was the aura of the great Tiger Woods that elevated a great event to even greater heights.

sound to my right. Yes, there’s a bee in the room. There really is a bee in the room. The reason I’m on column duty at this very late hour is because I couldn’t work on Monday, as I was still recovering from a 48-hour bug. Instead of working, I took a very rare day off. “Watch some Netflix, take it easy” was the kind advice from my family on Monday morning. So I did… watch some Netflix and take it easy. Before family members went their separate ways, I asked for a Netflix recommendation. Two of our daughters were in no doubt. “Watch what we watched at the weekend…we think you’d love it!” Therefore, a while later the credits roll for Man vs. Bee, the latest venture involving veteran

British actor-comedian Rowan Atkinson. It’s a nine-part Netflix series, each episode just ten minutes long. The title, and Atkinson’s involvement, will tell you it’s silly and slapstick, comedy of a type that doesn’t appeal to all. But it’s comedy of a type that appeals to millions of people! I’ve been a fan of Atkinson’s since his breakthrough on Not the Nine O’Clock News (which first aired in 1979). Later came the superb sitcom, Blackadder, followed by Mr Bean, and Johnny English. As for Man vs. Bee, it is ‘what it says on the tin’. Atkinson stars as a man who is hired to house-sit for an extremely wealthy and rather pompous couple. Once left alone in their stunning, luxury home, he becomes obsessed with an annoying (and remarkably resilient) bee. The battle between man and bee begins – and the results are predictably chaotic. While seven episodes might have been enough, I thought it was well-paced, and most importantly, it was often very, very funny. Atkinson is in peak form. Readers might like to check it out. Back in our house, it’s 12.25 am, and the bee appears to have disappeared. Mind you, Rowan Atkinson thought the same on more than one occasion…

Wednesday The bee came back… Later today, being busy with the paper, I didn’t get a chance to check in on news here or across the water. I expect it was a quiet enough Wednesday in Westminster? Maybe Boris is gone on holidays, in a manner of speaking?

Tuesday I’ve just sat down to type more of my column, even though it’s midnight on Tuesday. I’m alone in the kitchen…well, except for that buzzing

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Michelle Finn (who represented Ireland in the 3km steeplechase at the 2016 Olympics in Rio), Niamh Moore, and Lizzy Lee (marathon runner who ran in the 2016 Olympics in Rio). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople Funding approved for traffic lights at dangerous Frenchpark junction < DAN DOONER

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has this week given the goahead for traffic lights to be installed at a dangerous junction in Frenchpark. Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane, who had been campaigning for safety measures at the junction, which has been the site of a number of accidents in recent years, welcomed the news on Tuesday. “The junction at Frenchpark has been a safety issue for as long as I can remember and the need for action has been talked about for decades,” Deputy Kerrane said. “There have been several incidents at this junction over many years. I am proud to announce that Trans-

port Infrastructure Ireland, who I have been engaging with about this junction since my election, have approved funding for traffic lights”. The announcement comes following a feasibility study which was undertaken by Roscommon County Council. The Sinn Féin TD has now called on the local authority to carry out works as soon as possible. “It is now over to the council to prepare the design and advance the project to construction. “I urge Roscommon County Council to design the necessary plans for this in consultation with residents and businesses near the junction to ensure construction can go ahead as soon as possible and at long last,” Deputy Kerrane concluded.

Family of seriously ill teenager thank public for support

Roscommon Solstice Choir concert this Friday Roscommon Solstice Choir are hosting a free concert in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town, on this Friday, July 8th, starting at 8 pm. The concert is titled ‘There are no strangers in this house. A concert of reflection and hope’. With guest artists Eimear Reynolds, Paul Hennessy, Johnny Car-

roll, Fr. Kevin and members of the Ukrainian Community in Donamon all taking part, a great night of entertainment is guaranteed. Voluntary donations can be made at the door if desired, with all proceeds to the Ukraine Red Cross. All are welcome to attend, so please come along and show your support.

Archie Naughton

The family of a Roscommon teenager, who remains seriously ill in the Mater Hospital, have this week issued a heartfelt thank you to the public for its support. Archie Naughton’s (16) mum and dad, Paula and Padraic Naughton, expressed their gratitude for the public’s support and prayers for the youngster who remains in a critical condition with heart failure. Members of the local community took part in a candlelit vigil at the Sacred Heart Church in Roscommon on Saturday evening. Archie was just six-years-old and his twin brothers, George and Isaac, just two and a half when all three boys were diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in 2012. DMD is a catastrophic muscle wasting disease which impacts on the boys’ ability to walk and use their limbs. Those who live until their late teens are likely to become totally paralysed and will eventually die of respiratory and or heart failure. Archie, George, and Isaac are all paralysed and in wheelchairs and

are now struggling to use their arms. The ‘Join Our Boys Trust’ was set up in 2014 with the aim of completing a purpose-built house for the boys as well as funding research into the disease with the hope of ultimately finding a cure. An update from the Join Our Boys Trust read: “Archie has been very unwell over the past couple of months with things taking a turn for the worst in the last two weeks and Archie being hospitalised initially in Galway University Hospital and now in the Mater Hospital, Dublin. “The family cannot thank both hospitals enough for the care and love they are providing to Archie. At this point the family asks you to pray for a miracle for their brave, beautiful and courageous son, Archie”. Archie has received well wishes from around the world including encouragement from TV presenter Piers Morgan to “keep fighting”. Those wishing to help Archie, George and Isaac can do so by donating to Join Our Boys Trust at https:// joinourboys.org/donate.

Thank You

The Molloy family would like to sincerely thank all our loyal customers near and far for supporting us over the past 100 years. We are very proud to serve the local community with crusty bread and delicious cakes daily. We look forward to the beginning of the next century, helping you taste the happiness. Declan, Mary T, Mark, Jackie-Ann Molloy And the entire Molloy team

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

‘Historical revisionism at its Machiavellian worst’ Boyle, Co Roscommon

Dear Editor, The character assassination on page 18 of the Roscommon People issue dated July 1st 2022, which purports to be a type of ‘history’, is tantamount to historical revisionism at its Machiavellian worst. To suggest without one iota of proof that an officer of our Free State Army was ready to jump to the Anti-Treaty maverick’s is mind-boggling. That this is about a man who had risked his life regularly for our Independence is undeniable. To claim the word ‘Local History’ as indemnity is incomprehensible. History contextually requires a few basics – i.e. a primary source, secondary source, etc.

If we are to continue on this road, we accept that St Patrick was a Druid! That Cromwell was a ‘Land Commissioner’! The nameless scribe (sheltering behind anonymity) suggests a postmodern revisionist on speed! My late dad Tom (RIP, 1904-1978) and his lifelong friend Tommy Fox (RIP) were members of our Irish National Army. They were on duty in Boyle workhouse that day and they knew who shot Mick! The ‘password story’ is an invention to ameliorate a shocking truth, that the man who fired the fatal shot knew him well. Bad enough to be assassinated in 1922, without adding insult to injury a 100 years later! Yours sincerely, Christy Brady

NewsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 01

July 2022

Civil War breaks out 100 years ago – and Roscommon suffers its first cas ualty

On June 28th, 1922, Irish Free State troops attacked the republican garrison in occupation of the Four Courts building in Dublin. In the early hours of the morning, the troops, who were using field guns on loan from the British army, began bombarding the Four Courts with 18-pound artillery shells. The shelling of the building caused a fire to break out resulting in a massive explosion, and as a result of the fire, priceless centuries-old documents held in the Public Records Office went up in smoke. The battle lasted three days until the republican garrison surrendered. The attack on the Four Courts signalled the start of the Irish Civil War. Back in Roscommon, the town of Boyle was the setting for the first encounter of the civil war in the county. In the period before June 28th, the situation in Boyle was very fluid, with both antiand pro-treaty troops sharing possession of the town. Boyle barracks had originally been occupied by anti-treaty Republican The Four Courts building in Dublin forces until April 1922, when the pictured in 1922 after the bombardmen building was taken over by pro- gained t. control of the barracks Republican treaty troops and the Republicans and, Divisional Flying each evening and discuss the were arrested and placed under left strangely, a gun had been Column stationed in the miliunattended, which aided the tary day’s lock and key. However, at a later anti-treaty barracks at Boyle, and Mick courseproblems and the general of events in the country. stage the Republicans gained pro-treaty takeover. By June, Dockery commanded the ProYears later, Grealy stated that he troops had occupied Treaty troops control again, and the govern- the in the workhouse. was always of the opinion that as ment troops fled to a new head- so Union building in Boyle, and Commandant Grealy met with the town was then garrisoned Brigadier a result of those face-to-face disquarters in Strokestown. Dockery and they ar- cussions by two diverse forces. Overtures he had with Dockery, ranged for joint patrols of proBrigadier Michael Dockery, for peaceful coexistence were and the who commanded the govern- made anti-treaty men to go out and turn brigadier was arranging to the entire Boyle operation, ment troops, had been absent cers by the commanding offi- patrol the town each night keepbuildings included, over to the of the opposing sides. from Boyle when the republicans ing law and order. Grealy and Johnny Grealy was O/C of the Republicans – “lock stock and Dockery would meet for an hour barrel”.

Gospel Reflection

Sunday July 3rd Jesus has a vision in this week’s Gospel: Satan falling like lightning from the sky, the enemy vanquished by the missionary preaching of His Church. Sent out by Jesus to begin gathering harvest of divine judgment (see Isaiahthe nations into the the seventy are a sign of the continuing27:12–13; Joel 4:13), mission of the Church. Carrying out the work of the seventy, the Church proclaims the coming of God’s kingdom. blessings of peace and mercy to every She offers His “every town and place He intended to household on earth, visit” Our Lord’s tone is solemn today, for in the . preaching of the Church “the kingdom of God is at hand,” decision has come for every person. Those the time of receive His messengers will be doomed who do not those who believe will find peace and like Sodom. But and nourishment in the bosom of the mercy, protection Church, the Mother Zion we celebrate in this week’s beautiful “Israel of God” Paul blesses in this week’s First Reading, the The Church is a new family of faith (see Epistle. which we receive a new name that will Galatians 6:10) in Isaiah 66:22), a name written in heaven.endure forever (see In this week’s Psalm, we sing of God’s “tremendous deeds among men” throughout salvation history. works of God, none has been greater than But of all the what He has wrought by the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Changing the sea into dry land was but an anticipation for our passing over, for what Paul calls and preparation the “new creation.” And as the Exodus generation was protected in a wilderness of serpents and scorpions (see Deuteronomy has given His Church power now over “the 8:15), He full force of the enemy.” Nothing will harm us as we make our wilderness of this world, awaiting the way through the awaiting the day when all on earth willMaster of the harvest, Lord and sing praise to the glory of His shout joyfully to the name. -Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

Killina NS Communion class pictured with their teacher Natalie Fallon. Photo: Mary Lane

Tulsk NS Communion class pictured

The phoney war between the anti- and pro-treaty sides in the country ended on June 28th, 1922, when the Free State army attacked the Four Courts, which was the headquarters of the Republican forces in Dublin. A few days later, on the night of July 2nd, Mick Dockery approached the Republican position in Boyle to meet with the leaders there, as was com-

Castleplunkett NS Communion class

with their teacher Sinead Parker.

mon procedure at the time. This was just four days after the first shots of the Civil War had been fired. The sentry on duty challenged the man in the dark; Dockery uttered a previously agreed password, not knowing that the password had been changed since July 1st. The sentry, not recognising the password, fired at the supposed intruder. Dockery was hit by the bullet and fatally wounded. This unfortunate quirk of fate, this ill-fated case of misadventure by the brigadier, resulted in his regrettable death. One has to ask the question: why did a Free State officer such as Mick Dockery choose to approach a hostile group on his own, a group that was on high alert in the early days of the civil war? Observers and comrades of the brigadier claimed that Dockery had been plotting to defect to the Republican side and surrender Boyle over to them. The actions of Mick Dockery on that tragic night have remained a mystery down through the years, and at this stage it’s a mystery that will never be solved. Brigadier Dockery was the first casualty of the civil war in Roscommon. A few days, later his funeral took place in Ballinderry Cemetery, Fourmilehouse. More articles at a later date. An Staraí Áitiuil (The local historian)

pictured with their teacher Deirdre

newsbriefs Local burglaries being investigated Roscommon Gardaí appealing for witnesses following a break in at Roscommon Golf Club on Wednesday morning last (June 29th). It’s understood that entry was gained through a window and a quantity of cash was taken during the incident which occurred at approximately 1.30 am. Gardaí are also investigating a burglary which took place at a home in Ballygill, Creagh last month in which a number of items were taken. It is believed the incident took place between 5 pm and 6 pm on June 23rd, and anyone in the area who may have seen something and has not already contacted Gardaí should do immediately on 090-6638300.

Hannon. Photo: Mary Lane

Photo: Mary Lane

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Catherine Gallagher and Rosarii Dunne. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Corina Keady and Anne Marie Cawley. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Revised Public Opening Hours Our public opening hours have been revised effective from 4th July 2022 in respect of our headquarters in Áras an Chontae, Roscommon town and the Boyle, Roscommon and Athlone Area Offices:

• Our Public Counters will be open from 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm Monday to Friday • Our Motor Tax Office is open from 9.30am to 1.00pm only on Monday to Friday • You can contact us by phone at 090 6637100 from 9.30am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 5.00pm.

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Sinead Whitelaw and Joan Flynn. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Many of our services can be accessed online on our ‘My Online Services’ portal via https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com/ Signed Caitlín Conneally A/Director of Services Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were John Costigan and Derek Long. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

The

D News page

Tibohine Fly-In to raise vital funds for two important charities

Isobel Cullinan from Roscommon, who has had cancer, is looking forward to this year’s Tibohine Fly-In in aid of Cancer Fund for Children and Roscommon/Mayo Hospice.

The annual Tibohine Fly-In, a staple in the flying and community calendar, will take place this Saturday and Sunday (July 9th and 10th), with all proceeds going to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation and Cancer Fund for Children. The event, which is run by James Morrisroe and members of Tibohine Flying Club, has raised approximately €40,000 for a number of charities over the years. Speaking about the air show, James Morrisroe said: “We are delighted that we can hold the Fly-In this year and raise money for our chosen charities Mayo and Roscommon Hospice and Cancer Fund for Children. “This year we have teamed up with Cancer Fund for Children as they are raising funds to build Daisy Lodge, a new therapeutic short break centre for children across

Ireland diagnosed with cancer and their families which will be built on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, County Mayo. “We feel believe this new facility will have a massive impact in providing emotional support to families dealing with childhood cancer diagnosis from the Frenchpark and Ballaghaderreen area and the greater west. “The flying community has always been hugely supportive of this event. We have worked hard to make it a safe outdoor environment for visitors, so we look forward to welcoming everyone”. Martina Jennings CEO of Mayo and Roscommon Hospice Foundation, said that community support during Covid has been vital to the organisation’s work. “The Fly-In has raised significant funds for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation for over 11

years now and we are very grateful to be one of the chosen charities again this year. Thanks so much to James for his unwavering support over the last number of years,” she said. Neil Symington, Director of Services for Cancer Fund for Children, noted that funds raised at Tibohine Fly-In would allow the charity to continue its work in the region. “Every month around 30 children and young people (aged 0-24) are diagnosed with cancer in Ireland. Since 2014 we have been able to offer a limited number of families therapeutic support at our centre in Co. Down but the reality is that for every family we can support there are another six we cannot,” he said. “A new Daisy Lodge in Cong will help enable us to more than double the number of children and

parents we support from 1,800 to 4,000, ensuring that no family in Ireland faces childhood cancer alone. Support from Tibohine FlyIn will not only help raise vital funds towards our capital project, it will also help to raise awareness of Cancer Fund for Children throughout the west”. Admission for spectators and families is a minimum donation of €5, all of which goes to the two chosen charities. Tibohine Airfield is located in Tibohine not far from Frenchpark Co. Roscommon. The organisers have worked hard to ensure that social distancing procedures will be in place both for visiting pilots and visitors on the ground. There will be a BBQ on both days and lots of fun for all the family over the weekend from 1 pm – 6 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday.

Cllr Peter Keaveney raises over €31,000 for Galway Hospice Glenamaddy native and Galway County Councillor Peter Keaveney and his team raised a hugely impressive €31,045.60 for Galway Hospice, with the funds generated from his Mayoral Charity Ball. The event took place in the jampacked Ard Ri House Hotel in Tuam, and marked Cllr. Keaveney’s last act as Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, and he was delighted to go out on such a high. Mary Tierney and Padraig Walsh received the funds of behalf of Galway Hospice and were hugely appreciative of the much-needed boost to their organisation. Cllr. Peter Keaveney said: “The generosity of local businesses to the Mayor’s Ball was phenomenal, I am delighted to be involved with the great success we all enjoyed on the night. Galway people are kind and giving, and are always on hand to help out a worthy cause. Many thanks are due to the organising committee from Glenamaddy. I want to say massive thanks for the energy, care, and enthu-

Glenamaddy native and Galway councillor Peter Keaveney and his team raised a hugely impressive €31,045.60 for Galway Hospice, with the funds generated from his Mayoral Charity Ball. Mary Tierney and Padraig Walsh received the funds of behalf of Galway Hospice and were hugely appreciative of the much-needed boost to their organisation.

siasm they dedicated to my final event “My heartfelt thanks to my wife Breda, Joe Ryan, Maggie Keaveny, Fr. Paddy Mooney, Dolores Heneghan, Kathleen Ward and my family. “Thanks is due also to Carol Walsh and Elizabeth Hoffman in Corporate Services in Galway County Council for all their help and co-operation. I want to express my sincere appreciation to Glenamaddy man John Mulligan who was an absolute pleasure to work with, and was so fantastic as our MC on the night”. This year the Cathaoirleach’s Community Awards were held in conjunction with the Cathaoirleach’s Ball and Cllr. Keaveney congratulated the winners and said great credit was due to Mary McGann, Community Development in Galway County Council for organising this section of the evening. “A huge thanks to all who donated spot prizes, gave donations, sold tickets and helped out in so many ways. The staff and management of the Ard Ri House Hotel were so efficient, cooperative and served a beautiful

meal. The welcoming entertainment was provided on the night by Niamh O’Flanagan, Aoife De Burca and the Glenamaddy Community School ensemble group which created a lovely atmosphere for everyone on arrival,” he added. Later in the evening those in attendance were entertained by Glenamaddy Sean Nos dancers Ethan Collins and Jennifer Maye and musicians Patrick and Katie Murray. Guests then took to the dance floor for the evening with music provided by Michael Cunningham and Matthew O’Donnell. “Many thanks are due to the sponsors, the organising committee and ultimately the 300 people who attended the event. Many thanks to the staff of Galway County Councill, my fellow Councillors, Senators, TDs, my good friends in Glenamaddy, businesses who sponsored tables and those who made a huge effort to attend. We’ve received so much positive feedback, and were really pleased with how the evening went,” Cllr. Keaveney concluded.

Kilteevan NS Communion class pictured with Fr. Beirne, Ms. Whyte, Ms. O’Connor, and Mrs. Brennan, school principal.

Local men ‘sail around Ireland’ in aid of Lecarrow Benevolent Fund Two local men were part of a crew who completed a sail around Ireland this week in aid of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund. Owen O’Connor and Mossie Reilly were joined by Paddy Shryane and Paddy Mons onboard a 38-foot boat from Wild West Sailing on Monday last (June 27th) in a bid to circumnavigate the island of Ireland. Their planned voyage launched from Dun Laoghaire on Monday morning last

before returning to the same harbour nine days later. The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund was established in 2001 to assist groups and individuals in difficulty. It has since raised over €400,000 for worthy causes. A GoFundMe page has been set up and over €2,100 has been raised so far. To donate, visit www.gofundme.ie and search ‘The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund’ which was set up by Mossie Reilly.

Fr Kevin’s single available on Spotify and national airwaves! A new song by local parish priest Fr. Kevin Fallon is now available on Spotify and by request on local, regional, and national radio stations. Recorded by Paul Gurney at Real World Stu-

dios, ‘Sweet Philomena’ was written in memory of the priest’s beloved late mother and follows the release of Fr. Kevin’s successful first album, ‘Twice the Catch’. The new single featured

on Steve’s Country Show on Spotlight TV (Sky channel 365) last night and is now available to request from Shannonside FM, Midwest Radio, and a number of national stations.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

West side of new-look Square reopens to one-way traffic < DAN DOONER

The new Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Municipal District has defended Monday’s reopening of the west side of Roscommon’s new-look Square to one-way traffic and car parking spaces. Cllr. Marty McDermott said the opening of the west side of the Square to one-way traffic had always been part of the plan and it would be of huge benefit to elderly visitors to the town and those with mobility issues. “I walk up and down that town every day and I know how difficult it is to access the post office and Bank of Ireland for those with mobility issues. The reopening of the west side of the Square was subject to Part 8 and we have to honour that. There was ample time for members of the public and local businesses to make submissions,” he said. “I have also secured one-hour parking on the east side of the Square and there is also a new taxi rank next to the bank. I believe that those changes along with the reopening of the west side for access to the post office will make all the difference”.

Derek Fetherstone captured these bird’s eye views of Roscommon’s new-look Square recently. Photo courtesy of Derek Fetherstone

Cllr. McDermott said both he and fellow councillors, Kathleen Shanagher and Orla Leyden, had worked

hard to include the public throughout the planning and development stage.

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“I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues in the Roscommon Municipal District especially Cllr.

Shanagher and Cllr. Leyden, but also Cllrs. Tony Waldron, Paschal Fitzmaurice and Nigel Dineen for their support throughout this process. “Recent objections to this reopening are just too late. Those late objectors didn’t come forward at the time (of the public consultation) but now they want it kept closed. There was a full public consultation during the planning phase and submissions should have been made then,” he said. Cllr. McDermott said recent calls from some local business owners to keep the west side closed to traffic had cast aspersions on the word of local councillors, who remained adamant that a reopening was always part of the Council’s plan. “As public representatives, we gave our word to the people during this process, and we had to honour that word. Our word is our bond to the people of Roscommon, and if we don’t have that then we have nothing,” he said. Cllr. McDermott thanked Director of Services Majella Hunt and engineer Ciaran McAlary for their assistance and support throughout the process.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

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FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Out of touch motor racing giants speeding down the wrong road Our man Frank on a bad week for some major names in motor racing; Welcoming new arrivals in Castlecoote…and more reflections on Galway v Armagh… As readers must know by now, I have a big interest in and follow a fair number of different types of sport. However, there are a lot of sports that do nothing for me. The likes of basketball, cricket, baseball and American football, among lots of others, are sports I would never dream of watching. Also included in this list is motor racing. I cannot understand how hundreds of thousands of people go to Formula One races all around the world just to watch cars fly around on a racetrack for what appears to be hours on end. And yet, despite never actually watching any of these Formula One races, I will admit I’ve always had an interest in the sport. Back

in the day, I would have been very familiar with legends like Jackie Stewart, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill, and the incomparable Michael Schumacher. There was also Nelson Piquet, a three-time world champion who was revered in his native Brazil. However, in the last few days, footage has emerged of Piquet seeming to make both racist and homophobic remarks about Lewis Hamilton – who apparently is one of the nicest, humblest, and most generous drivers on the planet (as well as being the best and most successful currently). The Scot, Jackie Stewart, also had uncomplimentary words to say about the young Englishman, prompting Hamilton to suggest that old legends of the game should keep their comments to themselves. As long as I can remember, billionaire Bernie Ecclestone has controlled everything in the world of Formula One. He too has also done untold damage to the sport having recently defended his friend Putin and the latter’s outrageous attack on Ukraine. Ecclestone declared that he would “take a

Players like Shane Walsh need more protection

bullet” for the Russian president. Funnily enough, the British Grand Prix is taking place in Silverstone as I write today (Sunday). A friend of told me her husband has been a race marshal there for years, and said that of all the drivers to ever take part in the race, Hamilton is the one who always makes a point of talking to all the marshals and thanking them for their work. At a time when he is struggling a little on the track, the last thing he needs is old-timers having a go at him, so maybe he is right in asking them to shut up! Many years ago, I too was in Silverstone – but not on the racetrack. My truck broke down on the motorway just beside the village when the alternator went in it. We had no lights, but Ralph (my brother-in-law) said he would keep the engine running until morning. And so, our former neighbour Ludovic and I went for a few pints in one of the local pubs. Ludovic, a Dutchman who was about six foot six inches tall, looked a bit like Marv in Home Alone. He was wearing big wooden clogs that were riddled with woodworm and you could hear him from miles away (maybe a slight

exaggeration). I will never forget the looks we got from the regulars when we walked in. Anyway, we had a few pints, waited ‘til morning (not in the pub), got going again at daybreak, and never saw Silverstone again. And yet today, I know all four of our children will be glued to the action on the racetrack, as they all have been bitten by the bug that I missed. I hope they get a hugely exciting race (Editor: They did; it was won by Carlos Sainz, with Lewis Hamilton in third). Many years ago I sold a beautiful Ford Capri to one of my good friends (at least he was until I sold him the car). I always reckon it was that car that turned Mickey Maloney into one of the most passionate Formula One followers you would wish to meet. For me, rugby, football, and hurling are my main sporting passions, but only for the hurling today I might just have cast an eye on the happenings in Silverstone. Anyway, whatever about anything else, Bernie Ecclestone did the sport no good with his ridiculous statement supporting the murdering dictator Putin.

I wish to make just a fleeting return to the Armagh-Galway All-Ireland SFC quarter-final, and the fall-out from the huge brawl at the end of normal time. From what I hear it was no surprise that the melee happened, Tommy Murphy, Tom Flynn and Angela Flynn pictured at an event held on Sunday to welcome as the treatment dished out by some of the Armagh players American visitors to Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project. Pic: Mick McCormack during the game was appalling. Apparently Shane Walsh was the subject of some extremely unwelcome attention by the Armagh backs. What I can’t figure out is what exactly do linesmen and umpires do? It’s obvious that the referee can’t see everything, but he has six assistants who are surely meant to serve some purpose. The number of incidents that happen off the ball – but in plain view of linesmen and umpires – is amazing, as is the complete failure of anyone to do anything about them. In the lead-up to the game, I predicted that Walsh would be targeted, and gave the opinion that it was quite possible he would not finish the game. If I knew that, surely the officials should have known it. It’s time talented players like Walsh received proper protection. The other thing that surprised me about that game is the large number of Mayo supporters who were cheering Armagh on! I know there is inter-county rivalry in Connacht, but surely if you can’t support another Connacht team, the least you should do is keep your mouth shut and not shout against them! As long as I can remember I have always cheered on Connacht teams (even the Rossies) when they are playing any ‘outside’ counties, so I find it hard to understand Dan Cearley, Siobhan Boyd, Professor Chad Gifford, Dr Niall Brady and Professor Sam Connell why some of our neighbours would cheer for Armagh. I won- pictured at an event held on Sunday to welcome American visitors to Ballintubber for the Castles in Communities archaeology project. Pic: Mick McCormack der are there many Derry flags in Mayo?

And finally… It’s Saturday night, and for the first time since Covid changed the face of life for everyone all over the world, Carol and I find ourselves in Leyden’s Dáil Bar, a couple of miles over the road in Castlecoote. It’s funny how time flies by, but thankfully Leyden’s hadn’t changed a bit. There was a big crowd, a great atmosphere, and most importantly, excellent porter. The truth is it was great to be back. Terry and Mary were in attendance, greeting their customers. They very kindly invited us to a big christening on Sunday afternoon, when two new arrivals, a boy and a girl, were due to be named. However, there was a slight difference to the normal christening, as in this case they were christening two new donkey foals! As it happens, we couldn’t make it on Sunday, but I am reliably informed that the ceremony took place and that we now have Bobbins and Jack (another Jack-ass) roaming the fields behind the ‘Castlecoote Dáil’. Many would say there are plenty of asses already roaming ‘round the real Dáil, but that’s for another day! Anyway, it was a pleasure to be back in Leyden’s, and while we missed the big christening, it was great to meet up with some old friends and enjoy the craic. I must remember to bring a carrot or two with me for the donkeys the next time we go back. ‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Support for Kilmore Garda injured in Limerick hit-and-run < DAN DOONER

The community of Dangan in Kilmore has continued to rally around the family of a Garda Inspector injured while out cycling in Limerick last Thursday. Last night (Wednesday), a special Mass took place in St. Brigid’s Church in Dangan for Kilmore native, Niall Flood, who was discovered with serious injuries on the R522 near Newcastle West in Co. Limerick at 7.15 pm last Thursday night. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses after the hit-and-run incident in which the offduty Garda sustained multiple injuries. He was airlifted to Cork University Hospital and remains in a serious but stable con-

dition. Gardaí have this week confirmed that a woman (20s) arrested as part of the investigation was released without charge and a file was being sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions. Gardaí are continuing to appeal to any person who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users who were travelling on the R522 between Dromcollogher and Feohanagh at the time of the incident with camera footage (including dash cam) are asked to make this available to investigating Gardaí. Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on 061212400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666111, or any Garda Station.

Pictured at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Donnie Brennan, Phelim Henry, Anthony Cunningham and Sean Mockler. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Advertorial

Customers told to switch before bank withdraws Ulster Bank is continuing to write to its current and deposit account customers on a phased, rolling basis, to give them six months’ notice to choose a new provider, move their balances and transactions and switch their accounts. Ciaran Coyle, Managing Director of Retail Banking, Ulster Bank said: “We understand that choosing a new banking provider can take time and we want to ensure that customers in vulnerable situations and anyone that requires additional assistance gets the support they require as early in the process as possible. We have

been proactively engaging with these customers to ensure they have all the help they need. “We have scaled up our resourcing of our unit to support customers in vulnerable situations in preparation for the increased demand and have deployed trained staff in each branch for those in need of additional assistance. “If any customers in vulnerable situations are unsure of their next steps and would like to discuss their needs with us, they can contact us on 1800-656001, lines are open 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days a week, or review our

comprehensive customer FAQ on our website www.ulsterbank.ie”. After Ulster Bank customers receive their first communication (letter/email), they will be reminded at various times over their six-month notice period, through text messages, prompts on Ulster Bank’s mobile app and internet banking as well as follow-up letters, emails and calls. If at the end of this six-month period a customer has not moved their account, the account will be frozen and within a month a cheque will be issued for the account balance, less any fees, stamp duty, etc. payable.

In need of extra support? Our Vulnerable Customer Line is open. Call us. As we close, we recognise some customers may need extra assistance moving and switching their accounts. If you or a loved one need extra financial help or support during this time, please call our dedicated team.

Call 1800 656 001* 8am to 8pm, every day. * Call costs may vary and calls from mobiles may not be free. If you do call us please be patient as we may be experiencing longer than usual call wait times. Alternatively, you can call into any of our branches.

Ulster Bank Ireland DAC is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

If you want that tailored, personal, hand-holding experience…shop local! A series of articles highlighting the ‘seven months pregnant’ Today FM broadcaster Paula MacSweeney’s ‘horrible experience’ in a store which describes itself as ‘a global home furnishing brand’ last week, have been doing the rounds in many national publications. Describing how she was left “crying”, Paula, who’s expecting her third baby, recounted how her trip to this store was soured when “several employees observed me struggling to load very heavy boxes onto my trolley in the warehouse. They were laughing in groups, and many were on their phones”. This must have been a very distressing experience for the poor woman. Wow, for a company whose website declares it’s “a huge, welcoming

team working to make a positive impact on millions of people around the world”, this global enterprise clearly needs to up its game when it comes to customer support and care. Having only ever shopped in this establishment once in my life – an activity which occurred while I wasn’t pregnant – I can safely say I won’t ever be darkening their doors again. Before I go on, let me add I don’t blame this emporium for my own disappointing experience, I mean it’s not their fault I don’t go for the pared-down, minimalist, Scandinavian aesthetic (even though like everyone, I’m living on a strict budget, and probably should be veering towards the uncomplicated and the affordable). However, despite the fact it’s hugely

Ryan must end our headline-making PR travel mess

For weeks we’ve been hearing horror stories regarding the shenanigans happening at Dublin Airport, ranging from the DAA’s inability to deal with a surge in holidaymakers desperate for a postCovid adventure, leading to stark scenes of queues snaking outside the terminal, to cancelled flights and large piles of luggage going AWOL. However, just as it appears things may be on the up, with proposals to have the army on standby to help curb further chaos for fed-up holidaymakers, security staff at the airport have indicated they’ll ‘refuse to work alongside (or even help train) soldiers drafted in to Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan work’ with them. How odd. Am I missing something here? Surely this type of obstinate behaviour will only serve to defy logic, never mind adding to the wider sense of utter frustration and anxiety being experienced by passengers. Then again, perhaps they have a valid reason for not wanting members of our Defence Forces to help alleviate the pressure on them in the event it’s needed. Is it any wonder that given the utter chaos, a Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks opinion poll has shown the plan to bring in the troops has the support of 64% of the survey’s respondents? While I wasn’t one of the poll-ees (and I often wonder whose opinions are represented because neither myself, nor anyone I know, has ever been polled), if I had been, my answer in this instance would be that Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan needs to do whatever’s necessary to end this horrendous, international headline-making, PR mess – because we’ve become a laughing stock and the buck stops firmly with him. On the subject of PR, and ahem, nightmares; as irate passengers bombard Aer Lingus with complaints regarding cancelled flights and missing luggage (rightly so, I’d be fuming), is it just me or is anyone else concerned that Michael O’Leary – a man who thrives on controversy – isn’t sticking the boot into our national flag carrier?

popular with anybody who loves ready-to-assemble products, as a woman who hates anything ‘flatpacked’, going into “meltdown” (hubby’s words) if bits are missing from the box, places like this store, though apparently ‘revolutionary’, are definitely not for me. Besides, browsing for furniture in what looks like a massive, characterless warehouse (‘holding areas’ at Dublin Airport spring to mind), chock-full of people in a hyper-shopping state, pushing trolleys overflowing with basic, bland looky-likey plastic kitchen utensils and smelling of Swedish meatballs is not my idea of a happy shopping experience! On the other hand, as a woman who likes to spend time browsing, I will admit that this large store is certainly

ideal for that. However, if I have a query (and I always have a query, although hubby calls it nit-picking), or if a shopper needs help (à la Paula), I prefer the hand-holding type of customer service I get at a local, familyrun, Roscommon business. The type of tailored, personal attention, which is, I believe, only possible from people who’re passionate about the service they provide, people who’ll go that extra mile to help you find what you need, as opposed to allegedly responding to a heavily-pregnant woman’s request for help that “it’s self-serve only, get it yourself”! Disgraceful! That would never happen in a Roscommon store. Why? Because in this finicky nit-picker’s experience, Roscommon storeowners are not only receptive to their

customers’ needs, they also produce authentic products, as opposed to mass-produced black, white or uninspiring, unfinished wood items. I’m no medical professional and I most certainly don’t wish to sound patronising, but as it’s considered a general rule that pregnant ladies shouldn’t lift heavy items (and a definition of ‘heavy’ would differ from person-to-person), I’d like to make a suggestion for Paula, and it’s this: the next time she’s embarking on a shopping trip to purchase ‘a new nursery’ that involves hauling ‘nine boxes on a trolley’, maybe it’d be a good idea to have someone like, oh I don’t know, her husband or a friend, go along with her to help with the heavy lifting? I wish both mother and baby well.

National Famine Museum Curator Martin Fagan (right) pictured leading a tour of guests from the local and wider community for a preview of the newly-developed museum ahead of its July opening. Pic: Brian Farrell

Strokestown proudly showcases new Great Famine experience Following its €5 million refurbishment initiative, the state-of-the-art National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park House & Gardens has finally reopened, and as someone who brought my granddaughter (when she was younger) to visit their enchanting Victorian Christmas Experience, I for one cannot wait to visit again.

When people ask me why I chose to relocate from my beloved Dublin to Roscommon, I’ve often replied that I feel so lucky to be living in a county that offers peaceful, natural, seasonal, and above all, unaltered and unexploited resources and attractions. For me, the facilities at Strokestown Park House tick all of those boxes…and more!

Well done to everyone involved in this important tourist initiative. I’m looking forward to bringing my now history-loving, sociallyconscious teenage granddaughter back to experience the devastating effects of An Gorta Mór, which, in my opinion, is one of the most painful and defining periods of our nation’s history.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople Gospel Reflection Sunday, July 10th

Minister of State with responsibility for the Gaeltacht and Sport Jack Chambers pictured with members of Athleague GAA Club and local public representatives in Athleague recently.

Minister Chambers visits as Athleague GAA nets funding! The Athleague GAA Club community was delighted to welcome Minister of State at the Department of Sport Jack Chambers to their club grounds recently. The club has received €81,000 in provisional funding from the Sports Capital Grant for a community walk/ runway and a community play area. Minister Chambers said he was delighted to see the use of the 2017 grant in a new hurling Ball Wall supplied by Banagher Concrete and an AstroTurf area supplied by local company Class Grass. A large group of young players came out to greet the Minister as well as members of the club executive and local public representatives. Athleague GAA has expressed its gratitude to local Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy for helping to facilitate the visit.

Minister of State with responsibility for the Gaeltacht and Sport Jack Chambers pictured with members of Athleague GAA Club and local public representatives in Athleague recently.

newsbriefs Fundraisers for RSPCA A number of fundraising events are taking place across the community in the coming weeks in aid of the Roscommon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). A car boot sale will take place on Saturday, July 16th, at Casey’s in Roscommon Town (F42 RY88), and on July 16th and 17th, the RSPCA will hold their annual church gate collection at Clooneycolgan, Cloverhill, Brusna, and Derrinacartha churches. As always, your support is greatly appreciated.

Learn to support nature with Kilteevan Tidy Towns Kilteevan Tidy Towns is committed to supporting nature and biodiversity, and they are encouraging others to get involved too. With the support of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Kiteevan Tidy Towns is hosting free biodiversity events on Saturday, July 16th, and Saturday, July 23rd. The events will run from 10 am to 1 pm, meeting at Cloonlarge Loop Car Park. The events aim to help participants learn how to become actively involved in recording wildlife and sharing the details, be it in your own garden, your neighbourhood or in the wild. Michael Bell of Nature Learn will help participants get started with learning about birds, insects, butterflies, moths and more. So come along to the event to walk, talk and learn. Participants are encouraged to wear walking shoes and bring water if they wish. No prior knowledge is necessary.

We are to love God and our neighbour with all the strength of our being, as the scholar of the Law answers Jesus in this week’s Gospel. This command is nothing remote or mysterious – it’s already written in our hearts, in the book of Sacred Scripture. “You have only to carry it out,” Moses says in this week’s First Reading. Jesus tells His interrogator the same thing: “Do this and you will live”. The scholar, however, wants to know where he can draw the line. That’s the motive behind his question, “Who is my neighbour?” In his compassion, the Samaritan in Jesus’ parable reveals the boundless mercy of God, Who came down to us when we were fallen in sin, close to dead, unable to pick ourselves up. Jesus is “the image of the invisible God,” this week’s Epistle tells us. In Him, the love of God has come very near to us. By the “blood of His Cross” – by bearing His neighbours’ sufferings in His own body, being Himself stripped and beaten and left for dead – He saved us from the bonds of sin and reconciled us to God and to one another. Like the Samaritan, He pays the price for us, heals the wounds of sin, pours out on us the oil and wine of the sacraments, and entrusts us to the care of His Church until He comes back for us. Because His love has known no limits, ours cannot either. We are to love as we have been loved, to do for others what He has done for us, joining all things together in His Body, the Church. We are to love like the singer of this week’s Psalm – like those whose prayers have been answered, like those whose lives has been saved, who have known the time of His favor, have seen God in His great mercy turn toward us. This is the love that leads to eternal life, the love Jesus commands today of the scholar and of each of us: “Go and do likewise”. -Scott Hahn PhD, salvationhistory. com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

NewsPeople Views from the floor… Cllr Emer Kelly “No one wants to damage the local environment but we need to put people first. What happens if we’re sitting at a (similar) meeting in ten years’ time…are we going to have to relocate those people too? “In the west of Ireland we need to stand up and make our voices heard. Lough Funshinagh is no longer a Special Area of Conservation…there is nothing there to protect anymore”.

Cllr John Keogh “This is an Irish issue…and if it’s required to change designation then it’s up to the Irish Government. About 60 per cent of turloughs in Ireland no longer operate as turloughs. The pipe is the solution; it has to be put in. When laws are failing people, they have to be changed”.

Cllr. Joe Murphy “Everyone at Roscommon County Council, including my colleagues, has worked tirelessly on this issue. The Minister at the OPW (Patrick O’Donovan) has kept good contact and tried to do everything he can. The pipe in the ground is the solution…but the recent High Court judgment has called into question everything a local authority can do”.

Padraig Beattie (resident) “I’m in one of the homes about to be flooded. There is a pump outside and it will still be outside this winter because I know the pipe won’t be done. It will be done at some stage but this winter that pump will have to be filled with diesel and turned on”.

Maria Carney (resident) “My dad has farmed on the shores of the lake like my granddad before him. You can have plans A, B, C or D but there may be other people who may be unhappy or afraid that they themselves will be flooded (due to pipe at Lough Funshinagh). We don’t want the solution to our problem to be a cause of a problem for someone else”.

Willie Gacquin (resident) “The turlough’s designation was a flawed decision. It doesn’t meet the criteria. It emptied out every ten years or so but never actually fully emptied out. For years in school, my geography teacher was adamant that it was not a turlough, but a ‘solution lake’”.

Helmut Hickler (resident) “The whole issue raises questions…what mistakes/ misjudgments (has) Roscommon County Council made? EU legislation (did not) fall from the sky but it was underestimated or ignored. It’s not helpful insulting or blaming courts or judges, people or organisations. “Also, comparing the situation with the war in Ukraine was a mistake (referring to previous comments made by Council CEO Eugene Cummins)… it will not (help) public opinion. We must be cautious with strong words. I love this lake…but when I go down to the lake I feel sad…I don’t let my dog in the water (anymore)”.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Hundreds attend Lough Funshinagh meeting Murphy: Taoiseach to visit the area this summer < DAN DOONER

Hundreds of people attended a public meeting in Lecarrow on Monday night to discuss the future of those communities directly affected by ongoing flooding at Lough Funshinagh. The meeting was chaired by former IFA President, Joe Healy, and included a panel of local Oireachtas members including Independent TDs Denis Naughten and Michael Fitzmaurice, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane and local Senators Eugene Murphy and Aisling Dolan. During the meeting at St. John’s Community Centre, Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy told those in attendance that Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue would visit the area “before summer was out” and said a “serious review” of the planning process was taking place with results expected by the autumn. Earlier, Matthew Beattie, whose elderly parents were forced to move from their home last year, called on the State to take urgent action following letters of support from both Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for the OPW Patrick O’Donovan. He told those in attendance that residents were not going to accept relocation “now or at any time”. Geraldine Murray, a resident of Lisphelim, provided a detailed overview of the situation at Lough Funshinagh, and said the lake had doubled in size in recent years. “It was always known as the ‘disappearing lake’ but now it is no longer disappearing…it was 600 acres and now it’s 1,300 acres. Since 2015 it has become infamous for doing the opposite of draining,” she said. Ms. Murray said pumps had been in operation at the lake since 2016 and roads have been raised as high as six feet in places. She also provided a brief recap of the legal issues around the lake and said that the High Court decision to stop works this year “left communities absolutely devastated”. Ms. Murray also highlighted turlough flood relief measures at Ballyvelaghan in Co. Clare as a possible way forward for Lough Funshinagh. Cllr. Laurence Fallon said water levels around

There was a full house at Monday’s public meeting at St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow to discuss the future of Lough Funshinagh communities. Pic: Mick McCormack

Lough Funshinagh haven’t receded since 2020 and that while the local authority were committed to protecting homes, if the water was to reach higher levels that would be impossible. He questioned whether democracy was working when it came to protecting those around the lake and highlighted how every power Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins had sought to use had been shut down. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice told the meeting that “diggers and a pipe” was the only way to solve the situation but that de-designation of the lake as a Special Area of Conservation could take up to three years. He said a plan was in place to bring the relevant parties together but that there would be objections throughout the process of laying a pipe. The Independent TD also explained that a pipe with a sluice valve “works like a sink” and would therefore not pose a threat to homes and land in other areas. Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane said Lough Funshinagh “was not how an SAC should look or be treated” and said the National Parks and Wildlife Service had questions to answer. “We need to work together for a solution once and for all. We need a temporary solution because we need urgent action but we also need a long-term solution,” she said.

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan called on the National Parks and Wildlife Service to take action around the status of turloughs and said a scientific argument was needed to challenge some of those designations. Independent TD Denis Naughten called for all relevant bodies to be “locked in a room together” and said progress on the matter would “be at the rate of the most reluctant participant”. He had earlier stated that it was imperative to change existing laws in order to allow local authorities to carry out emergency works in the future. Meanwhile, a number of farmers’ representatives including Macra na Feirne President John Keane, Teagasc advisor James Kelly, Connacht IFA Chairperson Pat Murphy, and former IFA Roscommon Chairperson Jim O’Connor raised the plight of farmers affected by flooding in the area. The impact on food production, loss of land and the added stress placed on farmers were among a number of topics raised (see this week’s farming section). All Oireachtas members present pledged to work together to ensure that a solution was found. It was agreed that this would involve the de-designation of the lake’s status as a Special Area of Conservation.

Keeping your ‘Friends’ close…

It was suggested at Monday’s public meeting that the environmental group, Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE), would have to be part of any long-term solution at Lough Funshinagh. A representative of MEP Colm Markey, who earlier this week raised the possibility of de-designating the turlough as an SAC, encouraged those in attendance to reach out to the FIE in order to solve the problem. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice said he had no problem with contacting FIE Director Tony Lowes, while Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said he had “kept lines of communication open” with the group. There was widespread agreement among those present that all bodies involved in the ongoing situation at Lough Funshinagh must be brought together with the aim of finding a long-term solution.

Hundreds of people attended Monday’s public meeting at St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow to discuss the future of Lough Funshinagh communities. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Eveni gBar&BistroMenu 3 -9

Pictured at last Monday’s public meeting at St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow to discuss the future of Lough Funshinagh communities. Pic: Mick McCormack

National Parks and Wildlife criticised There was criticism of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at Monday’s meeting on the future of Lough Funshinagh’ communities with a number of public representatives calling on the body to do more to resolve the situation. Local councillor Laurence Fallon, who lives close to the lake,

accused the service of “disappearing” when the problem became a climate issue. He called on Oireachtas members to demand a study of the turlough and called into question its status as a Special Area of Conservation. Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy added: “We need better from them (NPWS)…they

newsbriefs Update on visitor access at hospital Access for visitors to Roscommon University Hospital has resumed. However, visiting to all wards is strictly by appointment only. Visits must be pre-arranged by family members/visitors, who should contact the relevant ward or unit in advance. Contact St Bridget’s Ward on 090 6632214/15, St Teresa’s Ward on 090 6632253/30, and St Coman’s Ward on 090 6632223/25. Children should not visit the hospital at this time unless it has been agreed upon in advance with the ward manager on compassionate grounds. Visitors will be required to follow public health guidance, including wearing a surgical mask and performing good hand hygiene regularly during their visit to the hospital. Anyone planning to visit the hospital is asked to delay their visit if they have any symptoms of Covid-19 (such as a temperature, dry cough, fatigue, sore throat or headache), or have been in contact with anyone with Covid-19.

Athleague Active Age Group returns Athleague Active Age Group are delighted to announce that we will be returning to meeting in-person on Monday, July 18th, at 7 pm in the Athleague Community Centre. All members are welcomed back, and new members are very welcome to join.

need to take heed of what people are saying”. Meanwhile, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane was also highly critical of the NPWS, and called into question claims made by the EU Commission that the body had already been in contact with local communities. “I’m not sure if anyone in this room would agree with that,” she said.

Hundreds of people attended Monday’s public meeting at St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow to discuss the future of Lough Funshinagh communities. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

See Naples…eventually: The weary journey through Dublin Airport After weeks of listening to the personal and painful accounts of others in the long and testing queues at Dublin Airport, last week our own turn came to experience the current ‘joys’ surrounding the state of our capital city airport. A family wedding in Italy meant we had occasion to travel to the runways there last Thursday and attempt a visit to the city of Naples in southern Italy. With up to 50,000 people a day travelling through it at peak times, the terminals in north Dublin are simply thronged way beyond capacity, and like everyone else, we were well warned to get up at the crack of dawn in anticipation of a challenging day. The first practical issue that hits you before you even head to the airport nowadays is the parking situation there. I should admit firstly that I have never been a great fan of parking at Dublin Airport anyway. As a first-time holiday maker in my early 20s, I absolutely hated just how far away one had to park a car there to get some sort of a reasonable price rate, and then traipse back at all hours of the day or night by bus from the very long-range, long-term stay car park in search of a terminal. “We’re parked on the way into Drogheda” was an oft-heard whinge in our house as we flew away!

Parking headache The omens for last week were not good from the outset. On the first google search, the price for five nights and five days in that attractive concrete jungle was coming in at over €140 – enough to extend a wedding trip to a sixth night if one really wanted to do so. By the Wednesday, there appeared to be no parking spaces at all left in the airport, but at that stage I had already long made the decision to abandon the parking lots altogether, instead seeking refuge in a nearby residential area where a good family friend kindly agreed to give us shelter in their drive. This bit of Christian charity and good luck should have set the tone for what was shaping up as a potentially most enjoyable break away from Ireland’s damp and miserable summer weather, but I’m afraid that tone changed dramatically after arriving at the airport for our flights. The days of using the ramp for arrivals or departures are long a thing of the past now. With all access to the main terminal ramps now solidly blocked off, we were carefully steered to the back of the short-term parking lot building and the bus and coach drop-off slots to start our weary journey into the airport. I’m not sure how many readers of this column have actually been inside that external building recently, but in the old days, there was just a shop and a cafe in the mall of the small centre, where one walked through the aisle before passing the parking payment machines, crossing the road, and just heading straight into the departures area of the ‘real’ airport ahead. Nowadays, that entrance route is firmly cut off, I’m afraid. Instead of letting you walk in the back door, one is steered towards the back of one of the bus shelters outside and onwards through a newly knocked-out hole in the wall of the building,

which in turn brings you into the ground floor of what used to be the indoor short-term car parks.

Airport tours On Thursday last, that car park was providing the holding area for the first of the queues one was about to experience. Crash barriers guided the lines over and back across the parking lot, before finally bringing the lucky passengers back onto the route of the old building’s central aisle and onto an escalator that transported us on up to the top floor of the same building. During all of this time, remember one is still not actually inside the main building. In fact, when one arrives at the top of the escalator, the next diversion sends the lucky flyers out onto the roof of the short-term car park, where the next queue has already formed. The striking thing about the layout up here is the presence of several newly-erected marquees on the roof – clearly installed to offer shelter to the poor people queuing in a typical Irish summer. But their route is still blocked to the main terminal 1 building by a number of staff, who seemed to be operating a stop-and-go system of letting

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During all of this time, remember one is still not actually inside the main building. In fact, when one arrives at the top of the escalator, the next diversion sends the lucky flyers out onto the roof of the short-term car park, where the next queue has already formed

blocks of flyers out of the car park and finally across the road bridge into the check-in building. We took our place at the start of the first queue at 3.10 pm on the way onto this first building. We reckoned it had taken us just twenty minutes to get through the first set of queues outside before we finally emerged onto the airport proper, but I’m afraid it was here the real trauma begins. Going into the terminal building, the plane passengers are divided into two different queues, with those having to drop off luggage for the hold being steered to a queue on the right and the people with just carry-on luggage heading left onto a somewhat longer queue going inside the same building. To be honest, the queue for the automated selfservice bag check-in area was not long at all. With the bag tags now safely stuck onto our luggage and the bags dropped, we turned around again and headed for the other end of the terminal. There was trouble ahead…

Cheery mood It seemed at one stage on Thursday that the queue for the main security check-in departure gates was now covering just over 50% of the total area available on this floor. Areas best known for check-ins with other airlines seemed to have been taken over purely for queuing line purposes, and over the next hour, we began our ‘worm-like’ trawl and trail around every inch of the terminal building, in a queue that – to be fair – was moving most of the time, while stretched out as far as the eye could see. The mood among most of passengers was surprisingly good. Most of the flyers we encountered were not giving out or moaning, but playing their part instead in keeping the queues moving. From time to time, that positivity was shattered by the sight of a single passenger or sometimes a couple emerging in a fluster from behind us in the queue and ducking and diving through the lines in an apparent bid to jump to the top of the queue, all the while extending apologies towards those blocking their way and lamenting the fact they were very late and about to miss their flight. In the course of the 80-minute journey from the

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outside car parks into and past the security checks on Thursday, I think we only saw one person responding in a rude or unpleasant way to any of these late passengers, or indeed any staff in their way. Most travellers were pleasantly understanding of the situation, and delighted to hear that while this new queuing system was indeed slow, it was still a long way better that the absolute chaos witnessed in the same airport three weeks ago, when the entire building was clogged solid over three days, leading to hundreds missing their flights and onward connections to many exotic corners of the world. Not all was good in the experience on Thursday, but there was clearly a plan in place to avoid the chaos of recent weeks. We witnessed security check-in zones that were still closed and unmanned on part of our journeys, toilets and areas that had clearly not been cleaned up, and weary staff who were clearly under pressure as they tried to do their job. But we also met people with smiles on their faces, showing courtesy when very few around them were doing so, and many who were doing their utmost to help fellow passengers. We arrived safely in Naples airport at 10.45 pm on Thursday night, and were most relieved to have survived the crowds and queuing ordeals that were going on. One wonders if some of the airlines dealing with the scramble in the skies could not have done more to relieve the numbers by offering alternative routes and time slots to those who were prepared to wait, or perhaps travel instead on connected flights through Shannon, Cork, or even Knock Airport to get them out of the external queue that awaited them in Dublin. But above all, we wondered had anything really changed in the mad, mad world of international tourism and travel after the pandemic. It is clear from news reports worldwide that what we witnessed in Dublin Airport last week is in fact happening all over the world. Three years of restrained holiday-making has clearly come to an end after Covid-19, and it seems that half of Ireland is now making up for all those missed sun holidays by taking them all at the one time this summer. If you’re heading the same way soon, prepare for the above, because it’s not going away. Bon voyage!

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Letters to the Editor

Send your letters to: Abbey Street, Roscommon Town. Fax: (090) 66 34303 or email: news@roscommonpeople.ie

Abortion: Readers respond to columnist Miriam, letter in last week’s issue, and ‘Friends for Life’ advertisement Rooskey, Co Roscommon Dear Editor, With respect to the ‘advertisement’ sponsored by ‘Friends for Life’ on page 15 in your July 1st edition: The Roscommon People is no place for this image sponsored by the so-called ‘Friends for Life’. The sponsored image has no call to action, nothing to sell or any purpose other than to shame and hurt people who access necessary reproductive health services. I ask that you consider rejecting such sponsored images in the future. Fifty-three women from Roscommon accessed terminations of pregnancy between January 1st 2020 and December 31st 2020, according to an annual Department of Health report. I ask you to think of how they feel seeing these sponsored images when enjoying ‘People Watching’ or Frank Brandon’s ‘Unique Take on Life’. In the lead-up to the 8th Amendment referendum in 2018, I volunteered for Together for Yes and canvassed my local community in Rooskey. I heard personal stories from local women about how hurtful and damaging such advertisements can be. The toxic and hurtful language in this image such as ‘death by abortion’ is loaded with judgement. Even the statement ‘Pondering her baby with joyful thoughts’ is loaded. From speaking to women, be that locally or at the annual March for Choice in Dublin, I know that unwanted pregnancy is far from joyful. Rooskey, like the majority of Roscommon, showed compassion in voting yes to allow access to necessary reproductive healthcare. I note that to the left of the hurtful image, a large text in ‘Miriam’s Musings’ asks: ‘Please stop shaming people for wearing their face masks’. Miriam is in agreement that we should not be shamed for exerting autonomy over our own healthcare decisions. I ask you, the editor, please stop allowing advertisements that shame women who undertake the hardest decision. Please consider your obligation to your readers and their wellbeing when choosing to include images such as this. Please don’t accept this sponsored image going forward. As a local community newspaper you should prioritise the wellbeing of your readership over revenue from organisations that seek to shame those seeking necessary healthcare. Yours sincerely, Emmet King Editor’s response: It is never the intention of the Roscommon People to cause hurt or distress to any reader. As a community newspaper we believe we have an obligation to accommodate all views (whether a letter, opinion column, etc.) an approach clearly evidenced by our coverage of the abortion issue. We are satisfied

US Supreme Court justices found that the US constitution did not, in fact, contain an unwritten right to abortion (reversing the 1973 decision) and this leaves each state to make its own laws on abortion. Your columnist Miriam Kerins laments this return to the normal practice of making laws in a democracy, preferring a diktat handed down by seven ‘stale, pale, males’ in 1973, which allowed abortion up to birth. She clearly is a woman of compassion, as evidenced by her veganism, but sadly her compassion doesn’t seem to extend to the 63 million preborn children whose lives were lost to abortion in the USA since that decision. The reversal of Roe-v-Wade does not, in fact, ban abortion outright, but it goes some way towards allowing protection of the right to life of unborn children in the US, albeit on a state by state basis. Yours sincerely, Siobhan Nic Cathail

that it was proper to accept the particular advertisement referred to. Suffice to say the content of this (or any) advertisement cannot be presumed to represent the views of the Roscommon People. -Paul Healy, Editor. Athlone Dear Editor, The Roe v Wade decision and the whole abortion debate begs one fundamental question: Is the unborn human? If the answer is no, then the proabortionists have a strong case. If the answer is yes, then they have no case. Yours sincerely, J. Keane Galway Road, Roscommon Dear Editor, As one of that “sneaky, insidious, hypocritical and exploitative brigade” lambasted by she-of-witand-wisdom, columnist Miriam Kerins (Roscommon People, July 1st), I had to laugh when I read her article proclaiming to be prolife while advocating abortion availability for every woman. She rightly states all sentient beings, both human and animal, deserve to be loved, respected, and above all, protected, but obviously fails to extend this protection to unborn children. It made me wonder what species Ms Kerins places unborn children in! I suggest Ms Kerins cools her intemperate language against prolife folk, considering 33.6% of us voted ‘no’ to abortion in 2018. Surely it’s preferable to engage in

genuine discussions about tackling the root causes that drive women towards abortion, and demanding better practical supports for women, thereby creating a society where fewer abortions happen. Yours sincerely, Zoe McDermott Leitrim Village, County Leitrim Dear Editor, In the interest of balance and to inform some readers (who may have been misled by Miriam Kerins last week in her article entitled ‘No woman should ever be forced to submit her body to a pregnancy she’s unable to carry’), may I point out some of the support offered to women with crisis pregnancies by pro-life people, people Ms Kerins called “the members of that sneaky, insidious, hypocritical and exploitative anti-choice brigade”. ‘Gianna Care’ provides pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, home visits, companions for hospital appointments, midwifery lead support, one-to-one counselling with qualified psychotherapists, maternity and baby equipment, a 24-hour telephone support line, and post-abortive support groups, etc. ‘Community Connect’ is a support hub where parents-to-be can access material support (clothes, buggies and essential supplies for mother and baby). ‘Every Life Counts’ provides support and resources to parents who have received a diagnosis of a life-limiting condition for their baby to help them cherish whatever limited time they may have with their little loved one.

This is but three organisations who provide all of this support voluntarily, without a cent of Government funding, while GPs receive a ‘bounty’ of €450 for every abortion carried out, courtesy of you and I, the taxpayers. Perhaps Ms Kerins would like to detail some of the support and actual choices that the so-called pro-choice people provide to women with crisis pregnancies, other than the ‘choice’ to abort their babies? The vitriol in her language says much, as she continues, calling pro-life people “these bannerbrandishing, bible-bashing, antichoice folks”. Yours sincerely, Sinéad Tracey Mói n Uachtair, Ráth Ara, Contae Ros Comáin Dear Editor, A 2020 article in the Journal of Medical Ethics found that fetal pain in a gestational window of 12-24 weeks is not impossible, based on the neuroscience (Derbyshire SW, Bockmann JC, Reconsidering fetal pain, Journal of Medical Ethics 2020;46:3-6.). This review of medical literature, written by two researches with very different views on the morality of abortion, is just one example of the expansion of medical knowledge about the life of the unborn baby in the womb since the Roe-v-Wade was handed down in the US in 1973. In the light of increasing knowledge of the development of the child in the womb, I am not at all surprised that a majority of

Tully, Ballygar, Co Galway Dear Editor, In his letter re: Roe v Wade (Roscommon People, 1/7/22), Richard Cunningham mentions abortions taking place since the dawn of humanity, but we don’t know what supports were there in the past for women and men suffering trauma, remorse and grief as a result of abortion. Nowadays, there are organisations like Gianna Care and Rachel’s Vineyards, who reach out to and offer support and healing. Yours sincerely, Michael Nolan Ballymoe Dear Editor, Regarding Richard Cunningham’s letter about Roe v Wade in the Roscommon People issue dated July 1st, 2022, Richard asks the question…what compassionate solutions do the pro-life community offer pregnant women? To start with, Richard, ending the life of an innocent baby is never the answer. Abortion is a permanent and deadly response to a temporary crisis. There are many wonderful pro-life organisations helping and supporting women in crisis pregnancies. ‘Gianna Care’ provide a complete package of care for women in unplanned pregnancies – i.e. services such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, baby equipment and materials, counselling, doctor referrals, financial support, and more. This is all free of charge. Freephone 1800 111141 or visit giannacare.ie. Yours sincerely, Mary Cuffe

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

• Visual Arts • Music • Theatre • Words • Film • Comedy • Family Events • Workshops & More

14th – 23rd July 2022

Best of luck to the Boyle Arts Festival from

Marians Mega Summer Sale Bridge St, Boyle, Co. Roscommon P: (071) 966 2031 W: www.marians.ie Best of luck to the Boyle Arts Festival from

Chapel Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52 PW63 Phone: 071-9662318 Email: info@seancartycars.ie Best wishes to Boyle Arts Festival 2022 from

Minister Frank Feighan BRIDGE STREET, BOYLE AND PEARSE ROAD, SLIGO Email: frank.feighan@oir.ie Contact my office on:

0719149444

Best wishes to the Boyle Arts Festival from

Drumderrig House Nursing Home Ltd

Boyle Arts Festival is back! After a three-year absence due to Covid, the Boyle Arts Festival has returned, kicking off with an official opening on Thursday, July 14th, and continuing until Saturday, July 23rd. With almost 50 events in store – including an impressive mix of live music, visual art, drama, comedy, interviews, workshops, storytelling, children’s events, poetry, science, readings, presentations and much more – the 2022 Boyle Arts Festival really is back with a bang! The festival will be officially opened by Roscommon-native Hilary Beirne at 8 pm in King House, Boyle, on July 14th. The evening will be celebrated with a parade, which will feature performances

by Music Generation Ireland and participants of the children’s craft, dance, and percussion workshops (which are running July 5th-8th, July 11th-14th, and July 11th-14th respectively as part of the festivities). All are welcome to attend. Boyle Arts Festival is a ten-day celebration of the arts, including visual arts, music, drama, spoken word, and comedy. The festival was founded over thirty years ago. Run by a dedicated voluntary committee, the Boyle Arts Festival is committed to the provision of the performing and visual arts, aiming to present a culturally enriching schedule of visual arts, music, literature, drama and family events, featuring exponents of national

and international significance. The festival seeks to make the arts more accessible to a broad range of people, to give prominence to young, emerging Irish artists, both visual and performing, and to link with local arts groups in programming and organising events. The full programme of events being run as part of the 2022 festival is extensive, and can be found on the festival’s website, boylearts. com. With musical performances by renowned Irish musicians and accomplished theatre groups, as well as a myriad of art exhibitions and spoken word events, there really is something for everyone. The festival also offers a host of events for children – outside of the

workshops and opening parade, there will be also be a flea circus, storytelling with Louise Shanagher, and lots more. Tickets are available for many of this year’s events and can be booked online via boylearts.com. As a number of events are already heavily booked, organisers strongly advise people to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. For more information, please visit boylearts.com, phone 089 9830448, email info@boylearts. com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Boyle Arts Festival is supported by the Arts Council, local sponsors, Roscommon Co. Council and Fáilte Ireland.

Drama, comedy and spoken word programme

Abbeytown, Boyle, Co, Roscommon Tel: (071) 9662561 Email: paula@drumderrignursinghome.com Website: www.drumderrig.com

Cllr. Michael Mulligan

& Family

The Square, Ballaghaderreen Contact me on (087) 7799781

Mezzo soprano Sharon Carty will be joined by pianist Jonathan Ware at Church of Ireland, Boyle on Saturday, July 23rd at 8 pm.

The 2022 Boyle Arts Festival kicks off next week with an official opening on July 14th, and as ever, this year’s festival boasts a wonderful programme of drama, comedy, and spoken word events. As part of this year’s programme, a number of drama and comedy performances will take place, with Beezneez Theatre Company presenting John McDwyer’s ‘Unforgiven’ in St. Joseph’s Hall on July 20th, Ollie Grace presenting ‘The Hidden Folklore of Ireland’ in the Open Table on July 24th, and comedians Sharon Mannion and Ian Coppinger presenting a hilarious night of stand-up in King House on July 16th. As always, a strong programme of spoken word events form the backbone of the BAF calendar and one of the highlights this year will be the latest in Carole Coleman’s ‘In conversation’ series, which will feature Hilary Beirne, in King House, on July 22nd. King House will also host spoken word events by Julian Vignoles; Paul Kelly; Oliver Fallon; Dr Eve Campbell; Paula Barrett, Daniel Curley and Steve Larkin; authors Brian Leyden and Una Mannion; and Prof Eilis Dowd, Prof Amanda Clifford and Dr Orfhlaith Ní Bhriain. Author John Mulligan will also launch his latest book

‘Black Friday 13’ in King House during the festival, with the help of singer/songwriter Charlie McGettigan (more details on this book launch in next week’s issue). There are also two literary-themed workshops this year, both taking place in St Joseph’s Resource Centre. Author Brian Leyden will conduct a Writing Craft Workshop on July 16th, and author and poet Gerry Boland will explore contemporary Ukrainian and Russian poetry on July 17th. Meanwhile, on July 23rd, Tony Conboy will look at ‘Boyle’s Chequered Past’ with a walk around the town and river, and on July 17th, Gerry Boland invites people to take a stroll around the Pleasure Grounds to enjoy some poetry. The full programme and tickets are available on boylearts.com and people are urged to buy their tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Please note that there is a capacity limit at some of our venues, and in the event of sold out performances, only ticket holders will be admitted. For more information on Boyle Arts Festival 2022 and the full programme of drama, comedy, and spoken word events, please visit boylearts.com.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

• Visual Arts • Music • Theatre • Words • Film • Comedy • Family Events • Workshops & More

Pictured are musicians John Carty and Mike McGoldrick who will be performing the headline traditional concert as part of the Boyle Arts Festival.

Festival to feature headline concerts by renowned musicians The Boyle Arts Festival will feature a wonderful music programme that covers the classical, jazz, and traditional genres. The music programme will feature headline concerts by renowned Irish musicians, including Lisa Lambe, The Wolfgang Ensemble, Lynda O’Connor, John Carty and Mike McGoldrick. One of Ireland’s best-known singers and performers, Lisa Lambe will perform a headline concert as part of the festival at 8 pm on Friday, July 22nd, in the Church of Ireland. This year’s headline classical concert will be performed by The Wolfgang Ensemble and Lynda O’Connor. Taking place at 8 pm on Thursday, July 21st, in the Church of Ireland, this is set to be one of our most eagerly-awaited classical concerts. The headline traditional concert for this year’s festival will take place at 8 pm on Friday, July 15th, in St Joseph’s Hall,

Pictured is singer/song-writer Lisa Lambe, who will be performing a headline concert as part of the Boyle Arts Festival.

and will see master musicians John Carty and Mike McGoldrick come together for a highly anticipated performance.

Tickets for the headline concerts and all festival events are available now on boylearts.com and eventbrite.ie.

Pictured is Lynda O’Conner and the Wolfgang Ensemble, who will be performing the headline classical concert as part of the Boyle Arts Festival.

14th – 23rd July 2022

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

• Visual Arts • Music • Theatre • Words • Film • Comedy • Family Events • Workshops & More

14th – 23rd July 2022

Visual Arts will be prominent

Roscommon-Galway Constituency

Eugene

Murphy

Hilary Beirne. tions for Rural Ireland

Cllr. Valerie Byrne

ted to helping to quality of life for al Ireland which has eft behind- we need Lisduff, Elphin, ture where people and enjoy the many Co. Roscommon. al living”

urphy

den

eet, wn, mmon

3000

Available for consultations M: 086 8887897

An Ireland f o r all Senator

cllrvbyrne@roscommoncoco.ie

Constituency Offices:

Eugene Murphy Market Square, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

 090 662 5722 on Fighting back behalf of the people of  eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie Roscommon/Galway

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

 087 435 3834

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

Wishing Boyle Arts Festival every success

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Over the years, the Boyle Arts Festival has earned its place as one of Ireland’s most anticipated summer celebrations when it comes to the visual arts – and this year is no different. This year, the main visual arts exhibition is entitled, ‘Past, Present, Future’, and will feature the works of many established and emerging Irish visual artists. This is one of the most important exhibitions of contemporary Irish art in the country, and it serves as the jewel in the crown of a jam-packed multi-disciplinary ten-day arts event, in the most gracious of surroundings of King House. The exhibition has once again been curated by Paul McKenna of the McKenna Gallery in Omagh. The 2022 Exhibition will

feature 140 artists in different media, concentrating on painting, sculpture, drawing and photography. This year’s participating artists include Robert Ballagh, John Behan, Diarmuid Breen, Michael Canning, Sian Costello, Stephen Doyle, Mollie Douthit, Alan Freney, Martin Gale, Graham Gingles, Tim Goulding, James Hanley, Pat Harris, Stephanie Hess, Patricia Hurl, Aimee Melaugh, Miseon Lee, Salvatore of Lucan, Geraldine O’Riordan, Michael Quane, John Rainey, Ciara Roche, Neil Shawcross, Mark Shields, Donal Teskey, Vadim Tuzov, Chanelle Walshe and Colin Watson. Entrance to all exhibitions is free. For more information, please visit boylearts.com.

Classical, jazz and traditional music events

A strong programme of classical, jazz and traditional music is one of the cornerstones on which Boyle Arts Festival was founded over thirty years ago, and this year, the festival will showcase some unique performances, featuring many of the finest musicians in the country. With headline concerts by renowned Irish musicians such as Lisa Lambe, The Wolfgang Ensemble, Lynda O’Connor, John Carty and Mike McGoldrick, this year’s festival boasts an impressive music programme. For fans of classical music, there will be performances by Irish mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty and

pianist Jonathan Ware on July 23rd, violinist Phoebe Pan and pianist Darusia Oslizlok on July 15th, soprano Bláthnaid Nicholson and tenor Stephen Walker on July 19th, harpist Kara Lord Bissett on July 20th, guitarist Fraser Newton on July 21st, pianists Tiantian Gao, Ai Lin Sun and Mickey Glen Tomas on July 22nd, and local pianist Lenny Chen on July 16th. Comfortable in all genres from classical and folk to Irish and pop, Matthew Gilsenan, James Nelson and Daryl Simpson will perform together as The Celtic Tenors in St. Joseph’s Church on July 17th. Meanwhile, for jazz and classi-

cal aficionados, the second annual King House Piano Commission will see the premiere of a brand new suite entitled ‘Rath Cruachan’ in King House, on July 18th. This new five-part suite by Ronan Guilfoyle was commissioned by Roscommon County Council and is inspired by the ancient history and the geography of the county. Ronan will be joined by pianist Conor Linehan and noted jazz musicians, guitarist Phil Robson and clarinetist Matthew Berrill. Matteo Cullen will perform a range of original songs on piano and guitar in a variety of genres during a unique lunchtime concert in King House on July 23rd.

He will be joined by guitarist Alan Jordan and David Stone, who plays uillean pipes, flutes and whistle. For fans of Irish traditional music, Irish band Mules & Men (featuring Luke Coffey on banjo, Lily Sheehan on guitar, ‘Paahto’ Cummins on mandolin and Niall Hughes on double bass) will be performing as part of the festival on July 19th. On July 20th, the always popular Singer’s Night will take place in Dodd’s Crescent bar, when the Boyle Singers will be joined by special guest Barney Murphy from Co. Fermanagh. Tickets for all events can be purchased online at boylearts.com.

TAKE A BREAK

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

NewsPeople

Young Roscommon man receives Gaisce Gold Award A young Roscommon man was among 79 people from across Ireland to be commended for their outstanding commitment to personal development and contribution to society at the Gaisce Gold Award ceremony, which took place at Áras an Uachtaráin last Tuesday. President Michael D Higgins delivered the Gaisce Gold Award to each recipient, during what was the first ceremony to take place in three years. Michael Macken represented Ro-

scommon at the ceremony with the Roscommon Integrated Development Company. The Gaisce Gold Award, founded in 1985, is the nation’s highest recognition of a young person’s initiative, achievement, and voluntary contribution to society. CEO of Gaisce, Yvonne McKenna said: “Gaisce – The President’s Award is unique in the sense that it encourages young people to set their own personal development goals within a framework that

allows them to achieve them and contribute to their communities in their own way. “Every single day, I am inspired by the courage, the energy and the commitment of young people doing their Gaisce Award, and I am so thrilled we are getting to celebrate the breath of their achievements, from tackling global challenges like biodiversity to local supports for neighbours in need, young people Michael Macken pictured receiving his Golf Medal from President Michael D are consistently push themselves for Higgins. Michael represented Roscommon at the Gaisce Gold Award ceremony others”. with the Roscommon Integrated Development Company.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Malcolm Browne, Jonathan Little, Tara Malone and Gideon Kimasop. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Tom Hanks (American actor, will be 66 on Saturday)

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Nikita Cassidy, Ken Leonard and Sinead Heaney. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Ringo Starr (English musician, turns 82 on Thursday)

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Sinead Bracken, Sinead Hegarty and Edel Doyle. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were Corey Jinks, Erudite Barzina and Niall Cassidy. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Jaden Smith Sofia Vergara (American rapper (Columbian actress, and actor, turns 24 on celebrates her 50th Friday) on Sunday)

“

The things people say… Behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes -Jim Carrey

For updates, check our social channels

Pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10 Mile Road Race on Saturday were organisers Helen Ely, Loretta Lyons Dowd, Aine O’Connor, Mary Beirne, Scott Bennett, Brenda Hegarty, Pat Fitzgibbon and Brian Farrell. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

It’s been a GOOD week for… The battle-hardened hurlers of Kilkenny and Limerick, who advanced to the All-Ireland senior hurling final after semi-final wins over (respectively) Clare and Galway Strokestown and the county

as a whole, with the opening of the €5m new-look stateof-the-art National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park

Roscommon Harriers, who hosted a very successful 10 Mile Road Race in the county town on Saturday

Roscommon Races, with Ladies’ Day making a welcome – and glamorous – return last Monday after a two-year absence due to the pandemic

It’s been a BAD week for…

Charities in Ireland (primarily but not exclusively in the Limerick region), with the star-studded JP McManus Pro-Am raising millions of euro

Boris Johnson, with the UK Prime Minister hanging to his position by the proverbial thread after a succession of

quick-fire resignations (of his own ministers) Clare hurlers, who, given their excellent form and momentum, were favourites to win Saturday’s All-Ireland senior hurling semi-final against Kilkenny, only to come unstuck against very tenacious ‘Cats’… The Irish rugby team, who lost the first test of their New Zealand tour, a disappointing display ending in a 42-19 defeat to the All Blacks

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

GOING OUT

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

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Fiona and Laura Scott. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Bernie Egan and Bridie Ryan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Joanne Regan and Collette Campbell Cullen. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

The Louth, Roscommon, Sligo, Monaghan, Cavan, Kerry, Donegal, Kerry and the Galway Roses pictured at Roscommon Races Ladies’ Day on Monday on Monday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Rose and Declan Dillon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Orla and Lisa Fleming. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were John Donnelly and Roscommon Rose Bernie Ryan (Bernie is sponsored by Roscommon Racecourse). Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

GOING OUT

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

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Lisa Lavin, Linda Mullaney and Amanda Kelly. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Caroline Fahy, John Tobin and Caroline Quirke. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Linda Doorly and Mary Rose McNally. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Jennifer McCabe and Nicola Finnegan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Judges Leonie Morelli, Yvonne Donohoe and Hailey Coleman. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Rita Moylan and Lorraine McGarry. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Erin Corroon and Shannon Whitlow. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Pictured at Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Races on Monday evening were Laura and Alex Doolin and Bríde Hanlon. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

FarmingPeople

IFA Farm Safety event in Mountbellew The five IFA Connacht Counties are launching Farm Safety Week (Monday, July 18th to Friday, July 22nd)) with a farm safety evening demonstration in

Mountbellew Agricultural College on Tuesday evening next (July 12th) from 7 pm – 9 pm. The event will highlight the main causes of farm accidents which unfor-

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tunately lead to fatalities and serious long-term injuries as a result of day-to-day farming activities. The demonstrations will involve machinery

livestock, heights and sprays. There will also be a feature on First Aid and Wellness on the evening, followed by refreshments. Roscommon IFA Coun-

ty Chairman Pat Leonard said that while farm safety week will highlight the seriousness and prevalence of farm accidents, any accident on any farm can occur 24/7

ICMSA President, Pat McCormack, has accused the Minister of Agriculture of “selling out” local dairy farmers. Speaking following a meeting with Minister Charlie McConalogue, Mr. McCormack said the Minister’s plan to reduce cow number on family dairy farms, under a measure agreed by the Department with the EU Commission, brought into question the Government’s commitment to family farms. “While the Government claim to support family farms and the leaders of the two main parties stated that they do not support herd reduction, the reality is that family farms - the backbone of rural Ireland - are now facing herd reductions under a rule that will have little or no impact on water

quality,” he said. “Actions speak louder than words and the Minister’s policy is going to hammer families, many of whom have been dairy farming for generations. A dairy farmer with 40ha milking 112 cows under the current rules could end up having to reduce cows numbers by 29 under the deal agreed between the Minister and the EU Commission. “The reality is that these family farms will be forced out of business, and we’ll see an industrialisation of dairy farming unless it is changed”. Mr. McCormack told the Minister that there is an unacceptable policy bias against family dairy farms and the dairy sector in general. He claimed there had

been no consultation with ICMSA on the matter of reducing from 250kgs of N to 220Kgs of N and the vagueness in this agreement will not only have an impact on dairy farmers, but the wider dairy sector in terms of milk supply. “We met with the EU Commission recently, and it is quite clear that the strategy of the Department was to target derogation farmers. This included, for example, the Department proposal to ban ploughing of grassland from June 1st each year,” he said. On the Dairy Vision group, ICMSA very clearly stated to the Minister that the target for agriculture must be realistic, and this meant a 22 per cent reduction target while also addressing the necessary supports needed to make this reduction.

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the farm,” he said. Mr. Leonard has urged all to attend on Tuesday evening next, July 12th from 7 pm to 9 pm in Mountbellew Agricultural College.

Local dairy farmers facing up to 33% herd reduction – ICSMA

Contact

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

and 365 days of the year. “While only serious accidents are reported and heard in the media, there isn’t a day that goes by that an accident doesn’t occur of some degree on

Lamb price not reflecting increased production costs – IFA Sheep Chair IFA Sheep Chairman Kevin Comiskey has said factories are reluctant to pass €7.90/ kg for lambs for next week, with prices from €7.70/kg to €7.90/kg the general run. He said cull ewe prices are holding firm, with prices ranging from €4 to €4.30/kg. “Spring lamb numbers remain low on the ground and demand for sheep meat will increase as the Eid al Adha festival approaches on 9th July,” he said. The Sheep Chairman said lamb prices have come under pressure in the UK and to a lesser extent in France in recent days. These markets should improve with the increased demand for sheepmeat for the upcoming festival. He said while lamb prices are still over €1/kg ahead of this time last year, in reality input costs have eroded all of this gain

and low-income sheep farms do not have the capacity to absorb this level of cost increase. “Factories must stand firm in the market place to maximise returns to sheep farmers through higher lamb prices to offset these costs,” he said. The IFA Sheep Chairman has also questioned the on-going practice by sheep factories of importing lambs from Northern Ireland when prices are under pressure here while also pointing out the risks given the recent FMD concerns in the UK. “Factories must do more to support sheep farmers at this time and ensure increased production costs on sheep farms are reflected in prices,” Mr. Comiskey concluded.

ICMSA President, Pat McCormack

In addition, ICMSA asked the Minister to clarify the position in relation to TAMS grants for dairy farmers and he committed to a quick response quickly on this matter. The association also asked the Minister to review the Fodder Scheme to include dairy

farmers in the interests of fairness and to remove the clear bias against dairy farmers in this scheme. Concluding, Mr. McCormack said that he was “extremely concerned about the direct – or lack thereof – of current Government policy”.

Castlerea MART WATCH 400 cattle presented for sale on Thursday last with prices and trade similar to the previous week with a good attendance of buyers present resulting in a good clearance. The weanling rings noticed the strongest demand with the bulls hitting €3.45 a kilo while the heifer weanlings topped out at €3.73 a kilo. The dry cow trade remains strong with lots making up to €2,540. Cows with calves at foot made from €850 to €2,600 for a Limousin cow and her Charolais heifer calf at foot. Springers made from €1,380 to €1,500 per head. Young calves made from €25 up to €560 for continental lots. Runners made from €480 up to €850 for continentals. Sales continue at Castlerea Livestock Mart on Thursday, July 7th with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Sample prices for bullocks: BBx 490kgs €1630, Ch 410kgs €1400, AA 465kgs €1370, Ch 545kgs €1500, Lm 530kgs €1480, Lm 585kgs €1700, AA 590kgs €1690, BBx 625kgs €1740, Lm 660kgs €1870, AAx 635kgs €1600, Ch 600kgs €1650. Heifers: Lmx 415kgs €1290, BBx 365kgs €1260, Ch 420kgs €1240, Ch 380kgs €1210, Lm 410kgs €1120, Lm 485kgs €1440, Ch 465kgs €1400, Sim 430kgs €1300, Sim 590kgs €1800, Ch 640kgs €1800, Ch 615kgs €1680, Lm 555kgs €1630. Dry cows: Ch 885kgs €2540, Lm 880kgs €2350, Lm 725kgs €2140, Sim 775kgs €2090, AAx 705kgs €1940, Lm 725kgs €1980, Lmx 440kgs €1040, Fr 460kgs €600. Weanling bulls: BBx 375kgs €1280, Lm 415kgs €1280, Lm 330kgs €1140, Ch 375kgs €1000, Lmx 285kgs €750, Lm 340kgs €950. Weanling heifers: Lm 225kgs €840, Lm 285kgs €810, AA 265kgs €740, BBx 340kgs €1080, BBx 395kgs €1270, Ch 315kgs €1010, Lm 320kgs €1030, Ch 360kgs €1140.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

FarmingPeople

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Saturday, July 8th at 11 a.m.

63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Bullocks 35 pens of Bullocks on offer Also Heifers, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows ----------------------

Saturday, July 9th at 1 p.m.

Show & Sale of Pedigree Vendeen Sheep 55 Males & 17 females on offer Show at 10.30 a.m. Viewing time 12.15 p.m. to 12.45 p.m. ----------------------

Plight of Lough Funshinagh farmers raised at public meeting < DAN DOONER

The plight of farmers living and working close to Lough Funshinagh in south Roscommon was raised at a public meeting in Lecarrow on Monday night to discuss the future of communities close to the beleaguered lake. The meeting was chaired by former IFA President Joe Healy, who praised local farmers for coming to the aid of their neighbours during the worst of the flooding. Teagasc advisor James Kelly had earlier raised the issue of lost land due to rising water levels since 2016. Accusing the Department of Agriculture of not focusing on the issue, he said: “Farmers have taken a hit on the loss of farmland and on top of that there is stress as well. Farmers have been losing year on year…the issue needs to be ad-

dressed with any committee going forward”. Independent TD Denis Naughten accused the Department of Agriculture of “turning their backs” on those impacted by the flooding. He said the only way to ensure a practical, implementable solution was by getting everyone around the table. “Speaking privately to (Minister of the OPW) Patrick O’Donovan, he believes that’s what is needed too,” he said. Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said the problem at Lough Funshinagh needed to be solved as quickly as possible and that Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue would visit the area. “Every week (Minister for Agriculture) Charlie McConalogue gets it in the ear from me and he will be down here as well,” he said. The Connacht Chair of the IFA,

Pat Murphy, said the association had stood with farmers to ensure they were not losing out but called on all parties to solve the issue as quickly as possible. Former Roscommon IFA Chairperson, Jim O’Connor, said the hinterland of Lough Funshinagh “is effectively dead” and that no food was being produced in the area. He added that under the Irish Constitution every citizen should be treated equally but that the Lough Funshinagh residents’ rights “had become subservient to EU legislation”. Mr. O’Connor called on the Government to do whatever needs to be done “as a matter of urgency”. He warned residents they had an “enormous fight ahead of them” but it was one they would win because they were a “strong, united and resilient community”.

Macra na Feirme President John Keane said had visited the farms of Cllr. Laurence Fallon and local resident Padraig Beattie and the the evidence he saw spoke for itself. Addressing the public representatives at the top table, he asked: “What right does someone who lives 100 miles away have to object (to flood relief works)”. He added that this is the reality of what rural Ireland is facing and that young people wanted to live here but faced major deterrents around planning and other issues. The meeting also heard from local residents and farmers who highlighted the impact the flooding was having on local farms and homes. There was also agreement among those present that a solution at Lough Funshinagh shouldn’t create problems for communities elsewhere.

live.com. Sample prices for dry cows: Simm X 860kgs €2420, Lim X 830kgs €2340, HEX 830kgs €2320, Lim X 825kgs €2320, Lim X 780kgs €2280, Lim X 810kgs €2260, Char X 740kgs €2140, Char X 755 kgs €2120, Lim X 735kgs €2080, He 720kgs €1870, AAX 735kgs €1800, Lim X 620kgs €1860. Heifers: Simm X 850kgs €2160, Char X 700kgs €2000, Char X 745kgs €1900, Char X 670kgs €1860, Lim 550kgs €1860, AAX

655kgs €1780, Lim X 515kgs €1650, Char X 450kgs €1630, HEX 580kgs €1600, Char X 490kgs €1550, AA 585kgs €1460, SAX 475kgs €1460, Char X 380kgs €1220, Char X 380kgs €1300, Lim X 325kgs €1140, SAX 430kgs €1100. Spring lambs: 55.20kgs €166, 50kgs €165, 51.20kgs €165, 48.50kgs €161, 47kgs €160, 45kgs €152, 43.90kgs €150, 38.60kgs €144, 35kgs €116, 34kgs €120, 39.30kgs €130, 38.80kgs €132.

Roscommon MART WATCH There were similar numbers on offer at this week’s cattle sale with a strong trade for all classes. Heifers made from an average of €2.68 per kilo up to €3.62 per kilo while dry cows ranged from an average of €2.53 per kilo up to €3 per kilo. There was an excellent clearance with only seven cattle unsold. This Friday (8th), the mart will host its 63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Bullocks as well heifers, weanlings, suckler cows and dry cows.

There were increased numbers on offer this week with a better trade for spring lambs. Lots ranged from an average of €145.75 per kilo up to €166 per head. Stag ewes fetched from an average of €159 per head up to €204 per head. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. The next sheep sale for lambs and cast ewes is on Wednesday next (July 13th) at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-

Tuesday, July 12th at 4 p.m.

63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Weanlings Also Suckler Cows Included in the sale 65 Super Quality Weanling Bullocks – & 60 Excellent Quality Weanling Heifers Approx. 400 + kgs born in January 22 Photos of stock on our Facebook/Website pages Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 7th ----------------------

Friday, July 15th at 11 a.m.

63rd Anniversary Special Sale of Heifers Also Bullocks, Dry Cows, Weanlings & Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, July 11th ----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Learn to drive with

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551 KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Business

Visitors pictured checking out exhibits at the newly-renovated National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park House. Pic: Colin Shanahan, DigiCol Photography

Doors open at ‘transformed’ Strokestown Famine Museum

€5m investment in popular tourist site The new state-of-the-art National Famine Museum and Strokestown Park opened its doors to the public last Friday following a €5 million investment which has transformed the popular Roscommon attraction. The investment, via Fáilte Ireland and Westward Holdings Ltd in partnership with the Irish Heritage Trust has created a unique visitor experience, telling the complete story of The Famine. The new visitor experience includes a ‘3 in one’ ticket offering the enthralling new National Famine Museum, the historic walled gardens and woodland walk at Strokestown Park and the Palladian House with its original furnishings and features. The house re-opens for tours later in July once conservation works have been completed. The not-for-profit Irish Heritage Trust has managed the property since 2015 and oversaw the development project. A self-guided audio tour is on offer, available in six languages, with a mixture of imaginative scene setting and innovative audio-visuals and touch screens. Visitors will be able to explore the

tenants’ experience of hunger, eviction and exile through voluntary and assisted migration while engaging with the landlord’s perspective, his power, his dilemma and controversial assassination and gain insight into a cataclysmic disaster that changed Ireland forever. Visitors can also enjoy the six-acre walled gardens and Strokestown Park’s lush mature woodlands. A brand new bright and modern Woodland Café is the icing on the cake. Commenting on the opening John O’Driscoll, General Manager at The National Famine Museum/Strokestown Park, said: “We are delighted to reopen our doors to welcome visitors to a brand new experience and we offer a wide a range of things to do for all ages. We have created a series of enjoyable and enriching trails for our younger visitors in the new Museum as well as in the beautiful walled gardens and woodland walk. “We are also looking forward to welcoming back visitors who may have been here before and driving visitor numbers further for the tourism industry right across Roscommon and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands”.

Pictured are the grounds of Strokestown Park House, where the newly-renovated National Famine Museum is located. Pic: Colin Shanahan, DigiCol Photography

Irish Water launches new Experience Based Accreditation Scheme Irish Water has launched a new Experience Based Accreditation Scheme that will be available for experienced contractors in County Roscommon. The scheme will accredit contractors to deliver new water services infrastructure in public roads for housing developers. It follows the successful rollout of Irish Water’s self lay in the public road programme, whereby developers can deliver water and wastewater infrastructure in the public roads to service new housing developments. The new scheme is aimed at recognising contractors’ adherence to Irish Water’s codes of practice and quality assurance procedures. Welcoming the self-lay programme and the new accreditation scheme, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien said: “This latest initiative from Irish Water is another fantastic step forward in ensuring housing developments are completed efficiently across the country. I’m delighted to see such support for my Department’s Housing For All strategy, and to see Experienced Contractors across Ireland support the efficient

delivery of homes. Irish Water listened to industry calls and responded quickly. Yvonne Harris, Irish Water’s Housing Programme Director, said: “We are committed to supporting the Government’s drive in developing more homes across the country and ensuring these homes can be completed efficiently. We’ve launched our new Experienced Based Accreditation Scheme following calls from industry where, following a series of webinars with industry members, many highlighted the need for self-lay of water services infrastructure in public roads for new housing developments. “We have ensured our Experience Based Accreditation Scheme is easy and hassle-free to register for, and we’ve already seen strong interest from applicants. It ensures safe and reliable water services will continue to be provided to new home buyers and existing residents, now and into the future”. Commenting on the scheme, James Benson, Director of Housing, Planning & Development with CIF, added: “CIF welcomes this excellent initiative by Irish Water which will

Yvonne Harris, Irish Water’s Housing Programme Director.

facilitate us to deliver housing in a timely and efficient manner. Our members are committed to meeting the highest standards in the construction of housing and associated infrastructure”. Shane Carty of Carty Contractors, a contractor who participated in the pilot self lay programme, said: “We welcome the proposal by Irish Water to establish an accreditation scheme that will recognise the positive engagement by Contractors with Irish Water’s requirements since 2014”.

Local TD Denis Naughten pictured with Roscommon native and Managing Director of Tier3Tech, David Waldron, following the company’s announcement of 30 new jobs at its operations in Roscommon and Dublin recently.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

PropertyPeople

Cormac 086 3519492

PSRA Licence No. 004420

Cathal 086 1409158

DUE TO CANCELLATION

NEW TO THE MARKET

PRIME QUALITY LANDS APPROX. 23.8 ACRES LOCATED AT

4 BEDROOMED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE

CARROWNALASSAN & CARROWBOY, FOUR MILE HOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON

MONEYMORE, KNOCKCROGHERY F42 F660 AMV: €200,000

OFFERS INVITED

Prime quality lands located just off the N61 comprised in folios RN13719 and RN1816. The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming area between Roscommon and Tulsk. Offers invited. Legals: Billy Brandon Solicitors 090 6626245 of Patrick J. Neilan Solicitors, Roscommon The Auctioneer now invites viewings and all offers to sell.

A quality 4 bedroomed bungalow residence of approx. 1800 sq.ft. standing on a site area of approx. 0.54 of an acre comprising briefly of entrance hallway, kitchen/living room, utility 4 bedrooms in all with Master on suite and family bathroom. Services oil fired central heating, mains water and septic tank. Externally the property has a large private garden area. Located 8km from Roscommon Town and 3 km from the award winning tidy towns village of Knockcroghery. The auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

NEW TO THE MARKET

4 BEDROOMED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE

PRIME LANDS OF APPROX 41.98 ACRES WITH RESIDENCE STANDING THEREON

CORRISLIRA, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42CK81 AMV: €275,000

CORBOHILL, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 PF70 AMV: PRICE ON APPLICATION

Prime quality lands set out in one lot comprised in Folios RN21810F and RN41327F with cottage style residence standing thereon

A wonderful opportunity to acquire a fine family home of approx. 1312 sq.ft. with the ability to work from home or operate a food business with the property already producing various fruit and vegetables in the Permaculture areas and tunnels. This prime property is located in a rural setting and comes complete with extensive outbuildings, an arena and number 13 stables previously used for breeding of draught horses and set on an immediate 4.05 acres approx. There are 4 well appointed bedrooms, a sitting room, lounge, dining room, a lovely kitchen and a sunroof opening onto a beautiful private and tranquil courtyard. Corraslira, Strokestown has an abundance of natural amenities including country walks, boating, fishing and bird watching and is a much sought after address, only minutes drive from Strokestown. The property presents itself with fantastic lake views and a south western aspect to avail of the best of sunlight and also comes with benefit of approx 8 acres of rewilding land with lake access. The auctioneer now invites immediate viewings and strictly by appointment.

Prime farm located just off the R368 Four Mile House to Strokestown Route offering quality lands in one holding. Standing on said farm is compact 2 bedroomed slated residence in need of modernisation, together with stone barns set to side. All land is set out in approx. 12 paddocks with stock proof fencing and handling facilities. Regarded land location adjacent to the Scramogue River. Services include water, ESB and cattle holding pen The sale of these said lands must offer all farmers a great opportunity to acquire lands in this regarded farming district.

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

PropertyPeople Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 (office (office)) Mob: 087 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net PRSA no. 001821

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY

22 Ashwood, Knockcroghery Co. Roscommon Sean Naughton Auctioneers is delighted to offer “New to the Market” a spacious four bedroom semidetached residence built to a very high standard in the much sought after location in the picturesque village of Knockcroghery. Accommodation briefly includes four bedrooms (one ensuite) and bathroom, sitting room, kitchen/diner and utility. Price Reduced to €225,000.00 Joint Selling Agents: Ivan Connaughton, Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague, Co Roscommon F42 TW70 -------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE

Dundonnell Taughmaconnell Athlone Co. Roscommon Sean Naughton Auctioneers is delighted to offer “New to the Market” Circa 90 acres of Good Quality Land at Dundonnell, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon. Land can be sold in Lots to suit. Price on Application -------------------------------------------------------------------

Gannon’s Bar up for lease with Bradley Homes Available for lease with Bradley homes is Gannon’s Bar, a fully licensed public house of approximately 2,000 square feet with a large car park and outdoor undercover smoking area, located in the village of Creggs, Co. Galway. The location of this pub is excellent, being on the border of Galway and Roscommon, and situated on a large corner site fronting onto Main Street and the Glenamaddy Road. The pub is ready to go and fully compliant with fire regulations. The internal floor area includes a main bar (approximately 1,000 square feet) and the Cottage Bar (approximately 300 square feet). The property has been decorated to a superior standard both internally and externally, with no expense spared. The bathroom facilities are excellent, with three toilets comprising of a ladies, gents and disability bathroom. There are two entrances, one from each road, and a large tarmacadamed car park. There is also an underground cellar area for kegs and stock as well as ample storage behind the bars with additional space Steeped in history, this premises has been in operation for over seventy years. Originally owned by the Kearns family who operated two pubs in the village, it changed hands over to the Fetherstones in

the 1950s. The current owners purchased the premises in 1999 and undertook huge development and modernisation of the building, constructing additional out houses and an adjoining premises on the main street. The pub has been a staple of the village down through the years and is popular meeting hub, servicing not only the village but the large surrounding hinterlands. Across the road is the renowned Creggs Rugby Club, which was founded in 1974 and is undergoing huge development currently with the addition of changing facilities and gym. The towns of Glinsk, Ballygar, Athleague, Fuerty and Castlecoote are all within a five to ten-minute drive. Serviced well by taxis from Roscommon Town, the village is notoriously warm and welcoming and contains a supermarket, post office, takeaway restaurant and a host of local clubs and societies. Under ten miles from the town of Roscommon and nine miles from Glenamaddy, Gannon’s Bar offers huge potential to an experienced operator who can tap into the unlimited potential of this historic business. To make an enquires in confidence, contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 0861713417 or email sales@bradleyhomes. ie.

LAND FOR LETTING

at Ballagh, Kilrooskey

Circa 12 Acres of Top Quality Lands suitable for Hay or Silage. Well Fertilized. Price on Application

Gannon’s Bar, Creggs

For further details on any of the above please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080/6625864 Mobile: 087 2479486

Four-bedroomed Knockcroghery residence for sale by private treaty New to the market with Sean Naughton Auctioneers is a spacious four-bedroomed, semi-detached residence, located at 22 Ashwood, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Built to a very high standard, the residence is situated in the picturesque village of Knockcroghery in a much sough-after location. Accommodation briefly consists of four bedrooms (one ensuite), a bathroom, sitting room, kitchen/dinning room and utility room. The BER rating for this property is C2 and the price has been reduced to €225,000. The property is being put on the market with joint selling agents Ivan Connaughton, Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (F42 TW70). For more information, contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom. net.

No 32 Glenview, Roscommon town

Four-bedroomed house with garage at Glenview, Roscommon

New to the market with Bradley Homes at No 32 Glenview is a four-bedroomed, three-bathroom, semi-detached house with a large, detached garage (20’x10’) to the rear, located within walking distance of shops, schools, and all amenities on offer in Roscommon Town. Glenview is a popular, well maintained estate of forty-nine houses, with a mix of detached and semi-detached properties. Number 32 is located to the back end of the estate, with agricultural land to the rear. This property has the benefit of dual heating – both oil-fired and solid fuel range with back boiler. The addition of the garage is of benefit and a bonus to this family home. Ground floor accommodation includes a reception hallway and sitting room with open fire and double doors, leading into the large kitchen/dining room with utility room off. There is a discreet guest WC off the reception hallway and the rear garden can be accessed via the double sliding patio doors off dining area or via the utility room. On the first floor, there is a main bathroom and four bedrooms (master with ensuite bathroom), all with fully fitted wardrobes and laminated wood flooring. This property has many additional extras both internally and externally, such as the addition of the solid fuel ‘Stanley’ range, with back boiler in the kitchen/dining room. The detached garage has a roller door to the front and side access door with electricity supply and sockets. The exterior of the property is well fenced, with a tarmacadamed driveway and concreted patio area. There are uninterrupted views of green fields at the back of the house, and the gardens are well maintained with wooden fencing to side boundaries. The location is convenient, desirable and appealing to a variety of markets – from first time buyers to investors to the older generation who wish to move closer to necessary amenities to make life easier and more pleasant. Roscommon town also offers excellent transport links between Athlone, Dublin and Galway City, and the train station is only a fiveminute walk away. Viewing is advised and by appointment only. For full details, contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 086-171 3417 or email sales@bradleyhomes.ie

Final offers invited for bungalow residence at Rattinagh, Strokestown Cormac Sheehy of RE/MAX Team Earley is now accepting final offers for an extremely impressive four-bedroomed, detached bungalow residence of 2,100 square feet, set on approximately 0.79 of an acre, at Rattinagh, Strokestown Co Roscommon (F42 H339). The property boats spectacular views over Grange Lake and the surrounding countryside. The house features a large, open-plan kitchen/ dining area. The kitchen has built-in units with polished stone worktops, and is tiled entirely

with the benefit of a utility and WC off. There is a marble floor entrance hallway opening into large living room, featuring double doors with hand crafted glass as well as a full surround sound system. There are solid oak wood doors, architraves, and skirtingboards throughout. This property is served by four large double bedrooms one of which has an ensuite with an enclosed shower pod. The main bathroom is tiled throughout and has a jacuzzi bath and shower. The attic is laid out for further devel-

opment (SPP). All exterior walls featue white sand and cement finish. The BER rating for this property is C2. Viewing comes highly recommended and the auctioneer invites all viewings and offers. This is a must view property. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt Roscommon, on 090-66 26579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact auctioneer Cormac directly on 086-3519492.

Top-quality land for sale Top-quality land is available for sale and for letting with Sean Naughton Auctioneers. New to the market are approximately 90 acres of good quality land located at Dundonnell, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon, which can be sold in lots to suit. Sean Naughton Auctioneers also have 12 acres of topquality land available for letting at Ballagh, Kilrooskey. These lands are well-fertilised and would be suitable for hay or silage. For more information, contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090-6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom. net.

Rattinagh, Strokestown Co Roscommon (F42 H339)

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Property/NewsPeople

ROSCOMMON & GALWAY

NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR LEASE

Built on Experience & Trust PSRA Licence No: 004430

NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR SALE FOUR BED SEMI DETACHED HOUSE WITH GARAGE

32 GLENVIEW, ROSCOMMON

• Detached garage (20’ x 10’) with roller door and electricity supply & sockets • Dual heating, both oil fired and solid fuel “Stanley” range with back boiler • Good BER rating of C2 Viewings strictly by appointment only

GANNON’S BAR, CREGGS, CO. GALWAY F42 K802

For further details and to arrange a viewing contact

Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 086 171 3417 or E: sales@bradleyhomes. ie www.bradleyhomes.ie

• Fully licensed Public House c. 2,000 sq. ft. with large car park • Great location adjacent Creggs Rugby Club & c. 9 miles from both Roscommon & Glenamaddy • Representing fantastic potential for the experienced operator

For further information & to arrange a viewing contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 086 171 3417, E: sales@bradleyhomes.ie

THIS WEEK...On The Political Beat This week on the political beat, local public representatives highlight the ‘significant challenge’ of long-Covid, announce funding for community groups, and welcome new ‘Back to School’ measures…

‘4,000 people unable to work due to long-Covid’

Independent TD Denis Naughten said the impact of long-Covid posed a significant challenge as he revealed that up to 4,000 people are in receipt of a disability payment from the Department of Social Protection and are unable to return to work. Deputy Naughten said that while the Government had yet to release figures on the incidence of long-Covid, the health service was under pressure to manage and treat the impacts associated with the illness. “There was a sharp rise in the number of people in receipt of an illness payment experiencing Covid-19 in excess of 12 weeks over the winter period,” he said. “As these figures are released, 180 frontline health staff who are out

process in the coming days. The portal will be closed for a short period to facilitate this. Families will be notified when the portal reopens. Normal eligibility criteria will apply and tickets will be allocated accordingly”.

of work for months as a result of long-Covid are facing into their first week without the financial support provided under the special sick pay scheme for Covid that finished on June 30th”. The Independent TD said the figures are indicative of a much higher rate of long-Covid and warned that many people were ineligible for such welfare payments. He concluded: “Despite these very worrying trends, the HSE is only now ‘scoping out’ a patient registry for long-Covid. So how can we manage this medical condition when we are not even measuring it?”

Funding available for community groups

Murphy welcomes ‘Back to School’ measures Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed the commencement of a number of measures aimed at helping families schoolgoing children this September. Senator Murphy said the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is being increased by €100 (€260 for ages 4 to 11 and €385 for over 12s). “It is estimated that some 151,000 families will benefit from this measure in respect of over 262,000 children. This is a one-off measure for 2022 to assist families with

Independent TD Denis Naughten addresses Monday’s meeting on the future of Lough Funshinagh communities at St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow. Pic: Mick McCormack

back to school costs in the current year,” he said. Senator Murphy also highlighted the extension of the School Meals Programme to accommodate an additional 310 schools and the waiving of fees under the School Transport Scheme for the coming academic year.

“Families have already applied for their tickets for the school year and these will be processed in the usual way, but without a fee being charged,” he said. “Families will need to go onto the payment portal to verify they still wish to be considered for a ticket and further information will issue on this

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan has urged local community groups and organisations to apply for a new round of funding for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, which was recently announced by Minister Heather Humphreys. Speaking this week, Senator Dolan said: “The fund will provide grants of between €10,000 and €300,000 for the upgrade of community facilities. “Funding is available for capital works such as improvements to communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities, energy retrofitting, new windows, doors, heating systems, works to address safety concerns and works to improve disability access. “I would strongly urge local groups and organisations in Roscommon to register online at www.gov.ie before July 14th. Registration must be completed prior to submitting a formal application. Applicants can also register to attend an information session”.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Classifieds

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

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

ACCOUNTS

CHIMNEY CLEANING

First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala

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

BOUNCY CASTLES

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

087 2798704

Creighton Chimney Cleaning

087 2223368 CHIMNEY CLEANING

CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Chimney CCTV Inspection OIL BOILERS SERVICED Burners Repaired CARPETS CLEANING Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

COUNSELLING

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns

CHIROPODIST

Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc. Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required. Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss. Fully Registered. Call Dave on

085 8888833

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey

Construction l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV Inspections l Chimney Repair - Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE • Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers

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

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available

094 96 20099

All sprayers tested in 2016/2017 are now due re-test Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com Reg No: EI000083

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Trailor 10x6 steel, good condition also 5ft transport box with weed lick for rushes. Phone: 087 7733181 < FOR SALE: Steel bunk bed with one mattress, Strokestown area. Phone: 086 0604021

FENCING/GATES

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

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Mobile:

086 8936012

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

Phone:

D.A.F.M. Approved

Telephone:

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

VHI and Laya Covered

Online counselling available. 085 2514394

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

CHIROPRACTOR

Are you experiencing difficulties in your life?

FARMING

l l

For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail l

Tel: 087 2172281

087 2721193

Mop & Mow

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

Ballaghaderreen Garden & Property Services l Grasscutting l Strimming/ Brushcutting l Hedge cutting l Weeding/spraying l Light chainsaw work l Cleaning l Pressure washing Husband and wife team offering the help you need at a price you can afford Email: mopandmow@ icloud.com Telephone: 085 868 4169

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

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GATELY GARDENING

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

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries. Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Damien McDonnell intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention and completion of works to unauthorised development to existing single storey structure revised site boundaries, new waste water treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Lisheenanierin, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 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 planning 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 We, Paul McGarry and Gail Beckett are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the following: 1. Permission to construct extension to rear of existing house. 2. Carryout alterations to elevations of existing house. 3. Construction of a domestic garage. 4. Upgrading existing treatment system and percolation area. 5. Widening and alterations to existing site entrance and all ancillary site development works at Cloonakilla More, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42W254. 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: 0878228529 E: james@jlce.ie & aaron@jlce.ie Web:www.jlce.ie Architectural Designs – Consulting Engineers

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Noel Cunniffe and Maggie Moran, intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Corramore, Kiltoom, Athlone, Co Roscommon. The development shall consist of the following: planning permission for the construction of a new dwelling, septic tank and percolation area, new road entrance, new garage, and all ancillary site works.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Aidan and Penny Higgins intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct part single storey and part storey and a half dwelling domestic garage, effluent waste water treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Corramore, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Annelot and Stephen Harte, are applying for Retention Planning Permission for the following - 1. For alterations to the existing dwelling house to that which differs from planning granted under PD/03/817, the alterations include an increase in roof height to accommodate an attic conversion with the addition of 5 no velux windows and 2. For alterations to the site layout to include the relocation of the wastewater treatment system and percolation area and the construction of a timber post and rail fence along the roadside boundary with all associated site development works at Cloondacarra Beg Td, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 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 planning 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, James Boyle, am applying for permission for retention of alterations to a house previously granted under PD/01/810 and all associated site works at Keelty Td., Ballinatubber, Co. Roscommon. The primary alterations to the house as constructed consist of: 1. An attic conversion to habitable space, 2. Addition of one window on the first floor of the front elevation, 3. Addition of a door at ground floor and two windows on the first floor to the rear elevation, 4. Addition of two windows on the ground floor and three rooflights to the west side elevation, 5. Exclusion of one window and addition of one rooflight to the east side elevation and, 6. Exclusion of one chimney.

This planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed: Brandon O’Brien Ltd. (Agent) Consulting Engineers 11 Abbey Street, Roscommon Tel: 090 6625005

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Pamela and Kevin Hoey, intend to apply for permission for the following; (a) the demolition of a two storey annex, a boiler house with chimney and outdoor toilet building to the rear of an existing dwelling (b) to carry out internal renovations and elevational changes to the existing dwelling together with the construction of a two storey extension to the rear and side of the existing dwelling house (c) to increase the height of the front boundary wall (d) along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works at Roosky Townland, Main Street Roosky, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 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 authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:

Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 W: www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Kiernan, intend applying for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for permission to demolish and dispose of existing structures on site consisting of 21 no. Mushroom Houses and an office building and store rooms and full planning permission is sought to construct 26 no. two storey houses, (consisting of 10no semidetached 3 bed houses, 16no terraced units made up of 10no 2 bed houses and 6no 3 bed houses) construct service road and connect water and sewage (the sewage will be connected to a pumping unit) to existing mains supply and ancillary site works at Ballyleague Td., Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and 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 planning authority of the application and such submission or observations will considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant the application. Signed: Michael Hetherton Arch & Eng. Services Ltd, Cogan Street, Oldcastle, Co. Meath Tel: 049 8542911

Submit your Classified online

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Darragh Kenny and Estefania Vázquez, intend to apply for permission for development at this site; Culliagh, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of construction of dwelling house and effluent treatment system along with associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Big Red Barn Ltd. www.bigredbarn.ie Office: 094 900 2931

or alternatively call 090 66 34633

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

< TO RENT: Two bed house to rent in Ballyleague/ Lanesboro. Phone Pat: 086 3223976

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

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

086 3482387

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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 –

087 2982214 Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Classifieds

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

TAROT READING

USEFUL SERVICES

< TAROT READING: Would you like to know what your future holds for you, all questions answered. Have a Tarot reading with Kerry Lee, based near Glenamaddy. Tel: 089 4256426

Carpenter Available

HOME MAINTENANCE

PROFESSIONAL KITCHEN CABINET PAINTER AVAILABLE

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Doors Floors l Stairs l Wall Panelling Glenamaddy/ l

Roscommon area Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < FOOTED PLOTS OF TURF FOR SALE: Orders taken for loads and bags delivered. Tel: 087 6175160

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

083 0684011 WANTED:

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

086 2437376 < TURF FOR SALE: Top quality black turf for sale. Delivery available to Creggs, Fuerty and Roscommon Town area. Contact Mark: 087 3453560

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

086 8934576

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

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

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE Power Washing l Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc. l

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Call Mike

087 2478609 < HANDYMAN SERVICES: Do you need odd jobs doing around your home/ yard? Don’t have time to do them yourself? Don’t want to contact a specialised tradesman to carry out these tasks? l Gardening l Stonework l Clean up/ Tidying l Concrete repairs l Fence repairs l Pointing / Repointing l Cutting / Chopping firewood. Honest Service Provided at a Reasonable Rate. Phone: 071 9633964

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

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

Midwest Painters l ROOFS

washed and painted l DRIVEWAYS washed and sealeed l AGRI/FARM SHEDS washed and painted All work guaranteed Fully insured

Telephone 083 2070158

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 Plumbing & Maintenance • Bathroom planning and design to suit you • All aspects of plumbing and maintenance • Boiler Servicing • Heating Installation • Call for FREE QUOTATION

Contact Luke on

085 7359120

The company that can do all them small jobs

C&G Quarries

FROM

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

ALL BEING WELL

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Supplied & Fitted From

094 9373445 087 9100477

TARMACADAM

AtYourService

FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Aluminium

€190

USEFUL SERVICES

Williamstown, Co. Galway

Tel: 087 2601639

READYMIX CONCRETE

Suppliers of Maintenance - Pea Gravel - 804 l Broken and Round Stone l Drainage Chip l Washed Sand

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

LIFE COACH

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

COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815 <SOCIAL DANCING: Every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music from 9.30pm til late. This Friday night Matt Leavy. Dance class with Matt from 8.30pm. Tel. 087 9809432

086 8229606

CAROLINE BURKE Career & Life Coaching

GUIDING & COACHING TOWARDS SUCCESS CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (INCLUDING PUBLIC SECTOR) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (INCLUDING COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS) CHANGING JOB / GET THAT PROMOTION!

PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (E.G. RETIREMENT, NEW JOB, SEPARATION, ETC)

For appointment call me on 086 8229606

OR email your enquiry to cburkecoaching@gmail.com (FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS OR ON-LINE/TEAMS)

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

086 4679798

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

087 9795226

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

FARMING

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

F42 W294

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds.

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

(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

Daily collection

Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

Spare Parts Counter in our Showroom where we stock most brands of PVC Window & Door Parts. Hinges, Handles, Locks, Seals, Door Cylinders, Shop Door Parts

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

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

Chimney Problems

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

Do you want to increase the security of your home? l Enhance the look of your home and garden? l Keep pets and children secure and safe? Western Side Gates are specialists in manufacturing and fitting side gates and shed doors. All our gates are pressure treated and made to last. l

ROSCOMMON Driving School

Call Bernard on: 085 2274806 Email: westernsidegates@gmail.com Or vist: www.westernsidegates.com

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

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

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

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

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

GENERAL SERVICES

Patios l Decking Houses l Vehicles l Driveways l Caravans l Walls l Gutters l Domestic Cleaning l Roof Cleaning l All Types of Algae Treated l

Full & Mini Car Valeting (we come to you) Furniture Removal & Collection l Garden Maintenance l Painting Service Fully Registered & Insured Phone John:

085 2113317

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

Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA

VETERINARY

Mountbellew, Co. Mountbellew, Co. Galway Mountbellew, Co.Galway Galway

info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 0879818153 9818153Co. Galway info@mhla.ie Mountbellew, 091 380900 380900 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie www.mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 Dip in Loss Certified Dip DipCertified in Loss Loss Certified in Adjusting Adjusting Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Loss Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting

info@mhla.ie

ApprovedProduct Product Member of the PSAB-GI Approved Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Advisor Product Advisor by the Central Advisorwww.mhla.ie Regulated Regulated by Regulated by the the Central Central Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Member of Insurance Bank Member ofofthe the Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute

Approved Product Advisor

POWER BRUSH

Loss Assessor Services

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

Member of the PSAB-GI

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

CARS

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055 You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal

Tel: 087 0944027

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

6621220

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

INSULATION

Phone 087 2295551

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064 Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

DRIVING LESSONS

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

Contact Pat Hanley on

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Western Side Gates

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway 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.

Tel: 090

GATES

www.roscommonwindows.ie roscommonwindows@hotmail.com

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

Lowest price guaranteed

Telephone: 090 66 33026

Chris’s Window Service

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

TEL: (090) 96 88606

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

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

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

Power Washing

Please ring to make an appointment for the small animal clinic.

Contact Dave:

087 751 3774 RECYCLING

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

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES BEIRNE Ita Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon In loving memory of Ita, who died on the 6th July 2017, RIP (5th Anniversary)

LEAHY Christopher (Christy)

BRACKEN Alice

MARTIN Niall

Fuerty, Roscommon Who passed away on the 19th March 2022.

Grange, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of our dear mother Alice who passed away on the 8th July 2019 R.I.P. (3rd Anniversary)

New Ballagh, Rahara, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary) 9th July 2018

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

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

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

Always remembered and loved by your husband, Seamus.

~~~~~~~~ A beautiful nature, a heart of gold, your loss to us can never be told. A special mother we can never replace. No verse, no flower no tears can say, how much you are loved and missed every day.

Loved and remembered by your children Fiona, Alan, Sinead, Grainne, Ronan, Eilish, their partners and your grandchildren. ~~~~~~~~ Beautiful memories, silently kept, Of someone we loved and will never forget.

Sadly missed by the Reynolds and Beirne families. Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan at 7pm on Friday, 8th July, 2022.

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

We, Christopher’s family- parents, Tony and Phyllis, brothers and sisters, Anne-Marie, Claire, Sean, Mary, Anthony and Peter, would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported us and sympathised with us following the sudden and heart-breaking loss of our Christy. To our wonderful neighbours, friends and relatives, with a special mention to the Fahys, Curleys and both Keaveney families, thank you for your unending kindness, love and support. A special word of thanks also to those who lined the lane and “lit the path” as Christy made his final journey home. We are forever grateful for this moving tribute and to those who organised it. Thanks to everyone who reached out to us during our sad loss, those who visited our home, prepared food for us, travelled long distances, sent flowers, mass cards, letters and messages of condolence and to those who gave of their time to prepare Christy’s final resting place with great care and attention to detail, we are extremely grateful. Our heartfelt thanks to Fr. Christopher Edebianga, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and to Kevin McGeeney for guiding and supporting us through this difficult time. The kindness and understanding you have shown to us will never be forgotten. Thanks to all who participated in the Funeral Mass, especially Christopher’s friends and the beautiful musicians and singers. To Pat Smyth, thank you for your kindness and compassion and for taking such good care of our Christy. A special word of thanks also to everyone at Fuerty GAA, Athleague Hurling Club and to Roscommon United Football Club. Sport was an important part of Christopher’s life and all of your support has meant so much to our family during this painful time. To Christy’s friends and colleagues at Callington’s, we are truly grateful for all you have done for Christy and for us. To those who participated in the wonderful Guard of Honour that made Christy’s final journey to Fuerty Cemetery so special, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you! Thank you for the many stories, photographs, videos and memories of Christy you shared with us on the days leading up to and after the funeral. We will cherish these more than you will ever realise. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Mass will be offered on Tuesday, July 12th at 10am in Athleague Church. “The care-taker called and said...take care!” Christy Leahy

Cherished memories of our beloved son and brother Niall who passed away on the 9th July 2018. Rest In Peace

There’s magic in a mother’s touch, and sunshine in her smile. There’s love in everything she does to make our lives worthwhile. We can find both hope and courage, just by looking in her eyes. Her laughter is a source of joy, her words are warm and wise. We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

Always remembered and greatly missed by your loving family. Anniversary Mass will be offered in St. Brigid’s Church, Four Mile House, on Friday, 8th July at 8pm.

Life is not the same without you, the Sun still rises in the East and darkness falls at night. But nothing seems quite the same, each day is not as bright, the bird’s sing, the flowers grow, the breeze still whispers, too. But it will never ever be the same world without you. It’s so sad that you had to go, your leaving caused such pain, but you were so very special and our great loss is Heaven’s gain.

Fondly remembered and forever loved by your Mum and Dad, brothers and sister, extended family and friends. Fourth Anniversary Mass will be offered on Sunday, 17th of July in Mary Immaculate Church, Rahara at 10am.

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

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The local paper!

MONTH’S MIND MASS O’REILLY Batty Tremand, Roscommon Who passed away on the 11th June 2022

Batty’s family, wife Maura, sons Brian and Patrick, daughter Mary, daughter-in-law Edel, grandson Cian, sisters Breda and Maura, brother John, brothers-inlaw, nieces and nephews would like to deeply thank you all for the kindness and support shown to us all throughout the removal, Funeral Mass and burial. Thank you all for the lovely condolence messages on RIP.ie and the mass cards. We will be forever grateful. A special thank you to all our friends and neighbours who supported us through our sudden and sad loss. Thanks to all who took the time to form a beautiful Guard of Honour for Batty’s final journey. We are blessed with all the love and support. Thank you to Fr. Eugene and Fr. Kevin for all the prayers and guidance. Thank you to Pat Smyth of Smyth’s Funeral Home for your utmost professionalism in guiding us through organising Batty’s funeral. Once again to everyone who was involved in any part of Batty’s funeral we cannot thank you all enough. May Batty’s soul Rest In Peace. Batty’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 9th of July at 7pm.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. S.O’L. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE My St. Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with our Lord Jesus Christ, succour me in this hour of affliction and despair my St. Expedite, you who are a Holy warrior, you who are the Saint of the afflicted, you who is the Saint of the desperate, you who is the Saint of urgent causes, protect me, help me, give me strength, courage and serenity. Hear my plea. (Make request). Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you. My Saint Expedite, help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency, bring me back to that state of peace and tranquillity, my Saint Expedite, I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering when your desire is granted. Amen. Say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and make the sign of the cross. Be sure to provide the offering you promised, if Saint Expedite grants your petition. Thank you so much for everything, for hearing and answering my prayer. Amen. M.H.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MORGAN (nee Watchorn) Betty Oran, Donamon, Co. Roscommon Who departed this life on 11th July, 2021 (1st Anniversary)

Betty’s husband and family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all who offered their condolences, consoled and supported us on our very sad loss. We were very touched by the outpouring of support shown to us by leaving messages on RIP.ie, Oran Facebook page, text messages, phone calls, mass cards, enrolments, sympathy cards and visits to our home. Deepest appreciation to our extended family, neighbours and friends who called with food, supported us and shared memories of Betty. Our deepest gratitude to all those who assisted with such kindness and sensitivity. A sincere thanks to Fr. Pravin for celebrating Betty’s Requiem Mass and to Ann Corcoran for her lovely singing. A special thanks to all those who lined the roads and attended Betty’s Funeral Mass and burial. A special thanks to Pat and Gillian Smyth for their support, guidance and compassion in carrying out the funeral arrangements. We trust this acknowledgement will serve as a token of our thanks and appreciation to all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Betty’s Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Clooneycolgan on Sunday, 10th July at 9.30am.

GUNNING Patricia Ballymacurley, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who passed away on the 4th July 2017.

A special place within our hearts is set aside for you. As long as life and memories last, we will love and remember you.

Fondly remembered and greatly missed by your loving family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, July 10th at 11am.

HANLON (nee Hamill) Irene St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon & Cloonslanor, Strokestown 8th July 2020 (2nd Anniversary)

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

Loved and always remembered by her husband Noel, children Nicola, Tómas and Catherine and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Thursday, 21st July at 11am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

COX Laura Anne

BEIRNE Denis

KELLY Bartley

WARD Teresa (Tess)

Strokestown and Curraghroe (7th Anniversary) Who passed away on 6th July, 2015

Lus Leana, Roscommon formerly Fearmore, Derrane, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

Northyard, Scramogue

Keelogues, Williamstown (7th Anniversary)

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

A ray of sunshine came and went a beautiful treasure only lent in God’s keeping quietly sleeps this daughter and sister we loved but could not keep.

Sadly missed by Mammy, Daddy, James, Shane, Daniel and Zoe. Laura’s 7th Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday, 24th of July at 10am in St. Cecelia’s Church, Curraghroe.

REGAN KIELY George Cappagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Who died on 15th July 2021 R.I.P.

On the first anniversary of George’s death, his wife and family would like to thank everyone that sympathised and supported them at this sad time. We would like to thank our neighbours, friends and relatives who sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy, to those who telephoned and sent online condolences and to all those that travelled long distances to attend the Funeral. Thanks to George’s colleagues and friends in Enterprise Ireland at home and abroad. Special thanks to the N.U.J. and all staff for their ongoing support. Our deep appreciation to the doctors, nurses and staff of ICU Sligo. Thanks to Fr. Brian Conlon, Sligo General Hospital and Colette Furlong – Deacon. Thanks also to the Family Care Roscommon for their support and understanding. Sincere thanks to Roscommon Ambulance Service, Air Corp Medical Service 112. A special thank you to Pat and Marion McHugh, Funeral Directors for their support and compassion in carrying out the funeral arrangements. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions.

THANKSGIVINGS NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Blessed St. Jude, Glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus. The name of the traitor has caused you to be forgotten by many, but the Church honours and invokes you as the Patron of Hopeless Causes, of matters despaired of. Pray for me, who is so miserable. I implore of thy particular privilege to bring visible and speedy help where help is most despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need, that I may receive the consultations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and suffering, particularly (request). That I may bless God with thee and all blessed throughout eternity. I promise thee, O Blessed Judge, to be ever mindful of this great favour and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful Patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen. Thank you, St. Jude. Say for nine days and publish. B.M.

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In loving memory of Denis Beirne who passed away on July 15th, 2013 Deep in our hearts your memory is kept, to love, cherish and never forget. Will those who think of him today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Always loved by Willie, Mairead and extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass for Denis in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday, 9th July at 7pm.

Always loved and sadly missed by his wife Lily and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Anne’s Church, Scramogue on Sunday, 10th of July at 10am.

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here.

Sadly missed but never forgotten by your family.

MONTH’S MIND MASS BANAHAN (née Donnelly) Betty

Cappagh, Curraghroe Who passed away on the 29th May 2022

MANNION Josephine (Josie) Roselawn Drive, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who passed away on the 7th July 2020. (2nd Anniversary)

YOU GAVE US LOVE You left this world so quickly, we still wonder why. For the saddest part of all, you never said goodbye. You left us so many memories, to us you were so dear. No matter when we needed you, we always found you near. You gave us all you had to give, gifts both big and small. But most of all you gave us love, the greatest gift of all.

Always remembered and forever loved by her family, extended family, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Saturday, 9th July at 7.30pm.

The family of the late Betty Banahan wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised, consoled and supported us on the sad loss of Betty. We are grateful to all our relatives, neighbours and friends who have shown support by phone calls, leaving condolences on RIP.ie, sending mass cards and texts. Thanks to Betty’s GP Dr. Valerie Morris for her care and kindness over the past number of years. Heartfelt thanks to Roscommon Disability Support Group and carers that looked after Betty we are grateful to you all. Thanks to all the staff at Mullingar Regional Hospital for their professionalism and exceptional care they provided Betty in her final hours. Sincere thanks to Fr. Dan for celebrating the beautiful Funeral Mass. To the singer Fred Mulryan and everyone who prepared the church for the ceremony. Deepest appreciation to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for their professionalism, compassion and support they have shown to the family during this time. A big thank you to the grave diggers and everyone that stood out for the Funeral Cortège. As it is impossible to thank everybody individually, we hope that you will accept this notice as an expression of deep gratitude and appreciation. Predeceased by her loving husband Johnny, sadly missed by her sons, daughters and extended family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam. Betty’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church Ballagh, Killrooskey, Co. Roscommon on Saturday, July 16th 2022 at 8pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

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Appointments

FAMILYNOTICES .... THANKSGIVINGS UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Say for nine days and publish. B.M. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. S.M.

Roscommon & District Football League Community Employment Scheme

Local Service Business located near Roscommon Town requires a Part-Time Office Assistant. l Applicants must have excellent communication skills, be computer literate, proficient in MS Office and be able to carry out basic accounts. l Knowledge of Sage Line 50 is preferable. l Hours/days flexible. l 2 years experience and references essential. Apply with CV to: PO Box 3035, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, Roscommon.

RDFL Community Employment Scheme are looking to recruit Soccer Coaches for Primary Schools throughout the County and surrounding catchment areas. l 19.5 hours weekly. l No experience necessary, full training provided for coaches. l Excellent opportunity to retrain or upskill by availing of a variety of accredited courses. l Own transport required. l Garda Vetting will apply. l Eligibility to participate on CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups. Applicants should contact the case office in the local Intreo office to confirm eligibility.

WE ARE RECRUITING! We need cleaning staff in the following areas Roscommon, Boyle & Carrick on Shannon Part-time & Full-time positions Full training given

For further details please contact: 089 4811577

For further details please email: roscommonsoccer@yahoo.co.uk or write to: Roscommon & District Football League CE Scheme Culleen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

OFFICE ADMIN ASSISTANT

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Required in Roscommon Town, this is a part - time position. Applicants must have fluent English and a THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN professional phone manner. COUNTY ROSCOMMON! Must also be proficient in Microsoft Word Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre andCLG Excel. Four Mile House Community Playgroup Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Four Mile House, Co Roscommon Contact: 087 7496334

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com between 9.30am - 5.30pm Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House, CoBeing Roscommon Relief Staff Panel Created!

Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844

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

Jack and Jill Community Playgroup CLG CHY 12629

Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Essential Criteria:

• Created! Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE Relief Staff Panel Being •

Ability to ensure the health and safety of children at all times

Essential Criteria: • Experience planning child-centred activities • Minimum QQI/Fetac V in ECCE • Experience working as part of a team • Ability to ensure the health and safety of and children at communication all times • Good oral written • Experience planning child-centred activities • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours • Experience working as part of team Vetting required • a Garda • Good oral and written communication jackandjillplaygroup@gmail.com • Ability to work on own initiative, willing to work flexible hours Jack and Jill Community Playgroup, Ballinlough are currently • Garda Vetting required looking for a Room Leader to join our team. Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form. Job description available upon • A minimum of Fetac level 7/8 Childcare Award request. A panel may be formed which vacancies may be filled, including relief work. • Ability to work on own initiative andfrom as part offuture a team. Canvassing will disqualify. • Support and assist in providing an enriching learning environment that promotes Subject to Garda Clearance. Please call for a blank Garda Clearance Form. Job description available upon our emergent, based curriculum, children’s holistic development. request. A panel may be formed fromplay which future vacancieswhile may promoting be filled, including relief work. Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance Form with letter of expression of interest knowledge of Childcare Regulations. Canvassing will disqualify. • A good • Knowledge and Siolta and CVof noAistear later than Friday 30 April 2021 5pm to: • Caring, with a genuine love of working Form with young children. Interested applicants should send in completed Garda Clearance with letter of expression of interest • Preferable, up5pm to date and Child Protection Training. The 2021 Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon F42W326 and CV no later than Friday 30 April to: FAR

Ballinlough Co Roscommon 086 198 2036

Email or call for Sample Pack

090 662 9844

cuanbhride@outlook.com

Hours of Co. work 8.45 – 2.15pm Mon – Fri The Manager, Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Four Mile House, Roscommon F42W326 Very competitive salary (dependent on qualifications & experience) 090 662 9844 cuanbhride@outlook.com Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are also seeking candidates for a position of an Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer. AIM Support Worker • A minimum of FETAC Level 5 Childcare Award • Enthusiastic, caring, reliable and energetic person to join our team

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

Hours of Work 8.45 – 12.30pm Salary from €13 per hour We are also seeking candidates as Assistant Early Years Educators x 2 19.5 hours per week. Applicants must be in receipt of a SW payment. These are Community Employment positions and Full ECCE training is provided. Garda Clearance and/or Police Vetting are required for all posts We are an equal opportunities employer

Interested candidates should apply with a cover letter and CV: jackandjillplaygroup@gmail.com Closing date is Wednesday 13th July

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

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Part-Funded Scheme by the Irish Government Subvention andUnion part-financed by the European Part-Funded by the Irish Government Subvention and part-financed by the Scheme European Structural Funds underUnion the Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013 National Development Plan 2007-2013

E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com

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Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

Sports PEOPLE

Tight marking Feargus Lennon pictured trying to stop Killian Cox during Saturday’s O’Rourke Cup semi-final match between Boyle and Clann na nGael in Rockfield. See page 44. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

GAA Results

GE Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One Semi-Finals Boyle 1-8 Clann na nGael 0-10 Western Gaels 3-8 St. Brigid’s 0-16 Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two Fuerty 5-13 Shannon Gaels 0-5 Kilmore 7-9 Clann na nGael 1-7 Oran 1-11 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-7 Éire Óg 1-16 Kilbride 2-10 St. Brigid’s 3-11 St. Croan’s 2-11 Atlantis IPS Tansey Cup Division Three Creggs 1-13 Kilglass Gaels 2-8 St. Barry’s 0-10 Ballinameen 0-9 Pádraig Pearses 2-13 St. Dominic’s 0-7 St. Michael’s 0-17 St. Aidan’s 2-7 Strokestown W/O Castlerea St. Kevin’s Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Tremane 4-16 St. Dominic’s 0-14 Four Roads 0-21 Roscommon Gaels 0-10 U-21 Hurling Championship Athleague-Tremane 2-23 Roscommon Gaels 3-12

GAA Fixtures

Friday, July 8th Leydon Bros London O’Gara Cup Division Two At Rockfield: Oran v Fuerty. 8 pm Saturday, July 9th AFL Division Four Final At O’Rourke Park: Oran v Western Gaels. 3 pm AFL Division Five Final At Mulhern Park: St. Brigid’s v Michael Glavey’s. 7.15 pm IPS Atlantis Tansey Cup Division Three At Creggs: Creggs v Strokestown. 7.45 pm Sunday, July 10th GE Warehousing New York O’Rourke Cup Division One Final At Ballinameen: Western Gaels v Boyle. 1 pm Kepak Senior Hurling Championship At Woodmount: St. Dominic’s v Four Roads. 2 pm At Woodmount: Athleague v Pádraig Pearses. 3.30 pm At Woodmount: Roscommon Gaels v Tremane. 5 pm

Kilteevan rider books place at Dublin Horse Show

Kilteevan rider, Ita McDermott, secured her place at the Dublin Horse Show following an impressive performance at a qualifying even held at The Meadows Equestrian Centre in Belfast recently. The German judges gave Ita a score of 166 out of a possible 200 as she and ‘Dunard Lady Dominator’ topped a field of 69 combinations to qualify for the four-year-old division at the RDS in August. Dunard Lady Dominator is by Dominator 2000 Z which was bread by Colm Cuffe. It was a double celebration for Ita, who also qualified her own six-year-old mare, ‘Emoe Pixie’ for the Ballsbridge show which runs from August 17th to 21st this Kilteevan rider, Ita McDermott, secured her place at the Dublin Horse Show following an impressive performance at a qualifying even held year. at The Meadows Equestrian Centre in Belfast recently.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople

s t t u p Short Athlone

There were two worthy winners of last Sunday’s President’s Prize (Sam Delaney) following a 9-hole play-off. Kenneth Martin (97.5 nett) was best of the Gents while Helena Lennon (105) won the Ladies’ prize. The Junior prize was won by Gearoid McCarthy (68 nett). In the Gents’ competition, Thomas O’Connor took gross (70); Michael Downes was runner-up (102 nett), and Willie Owens finished third (102.5). Rhona Fitzgerald (108.5) was runner-up in the Ladies; Celeste O’Regan (85) took gross; and Siobhan McGrath (109.5) was third. In the 9-hole competition last Tuesday, Cathryn Mannion was the winner with 38 points while Kevin Dowling topped the Wednesday Open leaderboard with 40. The AWGS was won by Rod Tierney with 31 points and Olive Dolan was victorious in the 97 Club competition with 27.

Boyle

Open Week returned to Boyle this week for the first time since Covid-19 restrictions and today (Thursday) sees an 18-hole strokeplay and 9-hole Stableford for the Men. The big event is tomorrow (Friday) which features a 9-hole social scramble and prize presentation at the clubhouse. Well done to Liam Whyte (40 points), who took the James Shivnan Cup on Sunday, June 26th. Mark Feehan took the Thursday competition on June 23rd with 27 points, beating Paul Connolly and Pat Conroy respectively on a count back. Last Thursday’s competition was won by Michael Reid with 27, just edging out his playing partner, Michael Simon (26).

Carrick

Carrick’s Mixed Foursomes team had an excellent

(News from local golf clubs)

4-1 win over Ballina and will now play the winners of Ballinamore and Tubbercurry in the next round. The Pierce Purcell team had an impressive 4-1 win over Boyle in the second round on Saturday last and are also safely through to the next round. The Voucher competition last weekend was won by Kyle Flynn, who shot a 72 nett 64. Cathal Dowd (65 nett) was second, and Albert Hogg (65) was third. Nathan Flynn took gross with 75. Jim and Mary King are leading the Gents’ and Ladies’ Golfer of the Year sections respectively. Mary has 68 points and is eight points ahead of Dolores Mulvey while Jim (34 points) is seven ahead of Keith Tighe. The winners of the Seniors’ competition on Thursday last were as follows: Overall winner: John O’Mahoney (43 points); Cat 1: Gerry Emmett (37); Cat 2: Mick Foley (38); Cat 3: Seamus Mulhern (39); Front Nine: Leo Mulvey (20); Back Nine: Sean McMonagle (19).

Castlerea

Jean Timothy won the McKeon Memorial Cup on June 21st with Kathy Burke second and Dympna McDonnell third. Ruth Sullivan (20 points) won the Ladies’ competition on June 30th, while Dympna McDonnell came runner-up (also 20). The annual fundraising Club Classic was another great success and the winning team on the day comprised of three generations of the same family! Congratulations to Maureen Claffey, her son Geoffrey Claffey and Maureen’s 13-year-old granddaughter, Isobel Kenny. Their 94 points was enough to take home first prize. Other results: 2nd: G. Bruen, J. Mannion and D. Silke; 3rd: E. Curley, M. Ward, M. Kenny; 4th: T. Meaney, E. Devine, D. Towey; 5th: K. Burke, M. Creaton, L. O’Malley; 6th: P. Gorham, P. Doory, E. Flanagan; Longest Drive (Men): P. Kelly; Longest Drive (Ladies): T. Meaney; Nearest The Pin: S. O’Connell.

Roscommon The club hosted another successful Open Week last week. Thanks to our sponsors Catherine Waldron, P&G Cards, Ollie and Joan Hannon, Casey’s Londis, Timothy’s Londis and George Bannon Sports. Results – Ladies’ 18-hole Stableford: 1st: Geraldine Relihan (38); 2nd: Margaret Brennan (35); 3rd: Yvonne Waldron (33). Men’s and Ladies’ 18-hole Stableford: 1st (Ladies): Margaret Brennan. 1st (Men): Simon Walker (43); 2nd: Michael Connaughton (41); 3rd: Karl Powderly (40); Gross: Jamie Colgan (36). Senior Men’s and Ladies’ 18-hole Stableford: Ladies - 1st: Una Gleeson (35); 2nd: Margaret Brennan (34); 3rd: Kay Ruane (34). Men - 1st: James Ryan (40); 2nd: John Cunningham (39); 3rd: Charlie McDonnell (38); Gross: Michael Connaughton (25). Men’s Fourball Betterball: 1st: Dessie Timbs and Michael Jennings (Strandhill) (44); 2nd: Daniel Watts and Seamus Conneally (44); Gross: David and Allan Hill (43). Scotch Foursomes: 1st: Pat O’Connor and Patrick O’Connor (Castlerea) (63 nett); 2nd: Willie Doyle and Jackie Somers (64.5 nett); Gross: Robert and David Hill (76). Men’s 18-Hole Stableford and Ladies’ 9-Hole: Ladies - 1st: Patricia Keane, 2nd: Linda Maxwell, 3rd: Evelyn Bruen. Men - 1st: Richie Evans (40); 2nd: Noel Sharkey (40); 3rd: Albert O’Connor (39); Gross: Mario Costello (39). The Lady Captain’s Prize (Ruth Kilduff) now takes place on Tuesday and Saturday, July 19th and 23rd. Our Mixed team was unfortunately beaten by Portumna last Wednesday as were the Ladies’ Junior Cup team, who fell to Galway Bay on Sunday. On a more positive note, the club has three teams through to the Connacht finals in Castlebar on July 16th and 17th. The Men’s Barton Shield and both Senior Cup teams.

Pictured is Maura Tully, Tully’s TotalHealth Pharmacy presenting first prize to Isobel Kenny, Maureen Claffey, and Geoffrey Claffey (missing from photo), and Greg Bruen, Captain.Castlerea Golf Club owes a huge debt of gratitude to Tully’s TotalHealth Pharmacy, who have been main sponsors of the annual fundraising classic for an impressive 38 years. The club also thanks Declan Cunningham of GolfStyle Galway and Philip Murphy of Murphy Sweeney Golf School for their generous sponsorship. Thanks also to the clubs from near and far who donated green fees.

The Ladies’ ‘Get Into Golf’ sessions at Boyle Golf Club concluded this week with a very successful Scramble competition with each team consisting of an experienced member with two beginners. Pictured are the winning team of Kate Connelly, Ina Warden, and Liz Dwyer.

Horses for Courses Irish racing this evening is on the flat in Leopardstown at 5.30 pm, featuring the Group 3 Irish Stallion Farms EBF Stanerra Stakes with Gavin James providing the music in the Bulmer’s Live series. Racing over the sticks is at Limerick, off at 5.15 pm. Tomorrow (Friday) sees a national hunt card at Cork, away at 5.05 pm, and another evening national hunt card at Kilbeggan outside Mullingar starting at 5.20 pm. On Saturday, there is a flat meeting at Navan, opening at 1.37 pm. Sunday sees racing on the level at Fairyhouse at 1.55 pm and over the sticks at Sligo at 1.35 pm. On Monday, the five-day Killarney Racing Festival starts with an evening meeting from 5.15 pm on the level, and continues with flat evening meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday before finishing with two national hunt cards on Thursday and Friday. Today there is television coverage with four races from Newmarket. Tomorrow there are four from Newmarket including the Group 1 Falmouth Stakes and two from York and on Saturday there are five races from Newmarket, including the Group 1 July Cup, four from York, and two from Ascot.

hurdle over 2m 3f with a full complement of 16 runners and three reserves. The second race is the Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle over 2m 3f, again with 16 runners and three reserves followed by a handicap hurdle over a similar distance. The Writech Handicap Hurdle over 3m has 14 runners and the 3m 1f beginners chase is sponsored by Irish Stallons Farms EBF has nine going to post. The penultimate race is the jewel in the crown of Kilbeggan racing year, The AXA Insurance Midland National, now a Grade B chase, with a full field of 14 runners and three reserves. Racing closes with a bumper over 2m 3f for amateur riders only and 16 entries. The field for the Midlands National is headed by Gordon Elliott’s Battleoverdoyen with the 2020 winner Freewheelin’ Dylan next in the weights. Elliott’s best chance looks to be Hardline with Shane Fitzgerald claiming 3lbs but don’t rule out Hurricane George with stable jockey Jack Kennedy in the plate. Paul Townend rides Augusta Gold for Willie Mullins and must be respected but Mark Walsh is one of the best riders around this track and he is on Iliktdwayurthinkin for Gavin Cromwell and owner JP McManus and appeals as an e/w bet.

In Newmarket’s Group 1 July Cup over 6f there are three Irish horses entered, Aidan ‘Brien’s Cadamosto, Edward Lynam’s Romantic Proposal and Michael O’Callaghan’s Twilight Jet among the 16 runners. The favourite is the Richard Fahey trained Perfect Power, winner of Ascot’s Group 1 Commonwealth Cup, at 7/4 and will take all beating. In the Group 1 Eclipse Stakes last Saturday in Sandown, Jean-Claude Rouget’s supplemented Vadeni made the journey from France pay off in the hands of Christophe Soumillon. Soumillon settled his horse at the rear of the field and came from last to first at the 2f marker before holding the late challenge of David Egan on Mishriff, looking back to his best, by a neck with Native Trail a head away in third. Soumillon got a 12-day ban for careless riding after the horses passed finishing post for which he is appealing the severity.

Racing returned to Lenebane with a national hunt card last Monday with the Gavin Cromwell trained She’s Some Doll, 11/4 favourite, winning the claiming hurdle under Luke Dempsey by 5½l from Sicario with Breffni Brave third another ½l back. The opportunity hurdle, one of the sponsored Adare Manor Series, went to the Shane Nolan trained Mister Beeton ridden by Shane Fitzgerald. The SuperValu Novice Hurdle was won by the Gordon Elliott trained favourite Salvador Ziggy at 5/6 from Dovlator and Desert Friend by 1¼l and 4½l. The 6-Y-O has won two from two since joining Elliott and Jack Kennedy did the steering both days. In the Larry O’Farrelly Maiden Hurdle Elliott and Kennedy completed a double with the second favourite Amir Kabir at 15/8 who beat the 6/4 favourite Hisnameis Mrdevitt and Freddie Robdal. The 2m RE/MAX Team Earley Handicap Hurdle was won by the Ronan McNally trained, the gambled on 7/4f, Petrol Head, backed from double figures in the morning, and ridden by Keith

Racing News

Kilbeggan Preview

Racing at Kilbeggan tomorrow opens with a mare’s maiden

Roscommon Review

by Tom Red

Donohue. The horse won by 2¾l and ½l from Presenting Lad and Makfils. The punters were out of luck in the Roscommon Herald Handicap Hurdle as the 18/1 outsider, Well Polly, came home. Trained in Limerick by Jennifer Lee, her first winner under rules, the 8-Y-O mare was partnered by Darragh O’Keeffe. The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Pro/Am Mares Bumper for lady riders was won by Rockstown Girl trained by Anthony McCann in Monaghan and ridden by Aine O’Connor from Phil’s Choice and Toucan Do. The 4-Y-O won easily by 6l and 3l and at 18/1 sending the layers home happy.

Racing News

The legendary trainer Kevin Prendergast turned 90 on Tuesday and celebrated the occasion by playing 18 holes of golf on Monday. His most recent Group 1 victory came courtesy of Awtaad in the Irish 2,000 Guineas Classic in 2016. His main hope for fame this year is the 4-Y-O Mehnah, a winner of two out of only three runs. This will be the thirteenth consecutive year in which Tote will sponsor the Tote Galway Plate for the thirteenth time with a value of €270,000, one of the richest jumps races in Ireland. The Tote, who sponsor the rest of the card will also offer the Tote Guarantee at the Galway Races for the first time. The Tote will match the SP if it’s higher than the Tote Win pool payout on all win bets. Tote Guarantee was first launched at Irish racecourses in March at Fairyhouse.

Competition Time

John Michael Ahearn, Ballinalack, Marie Keane, Ballymurray and James Kelly, Fuerty won tickets for Ladies’ Day and the Midland Grand National at Kilbeggan on Friday, and the answer was Kyrios won the Ascot Gold Cup. Don’t forget to collect your tickets in the office. Second and last chance to win tickets for Kilbeggan on July 15th. Tell us who rode Westover to win the Irish Derby? Answers as usual please on a postcard to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@ gmail.com by 5 pm, Wednesday, July 13th. As always, do not forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries. As usual all tickets will have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople Darts

Camogie

Fleming strikes first!

The Roscommon U-16 camogie panel.

U-16s off to a flier! Following months or preparation, the Roscommon U-16 camogie team commenced their campaign recently in a difficult group which includes Armagh, Wicklow, Kerry, and Down. The opening game saw the girls travel to Argmagh in what was a tough encounter. The first half was tit-for-tat but the Rossies found themselves a goal up at the break. Sean O’Brien and Colm Kelly’s charges made a good start to the second half and ran out fivepoint winners on a scoreline of 2-12 to 2-7. Roscommon continued their good form in the second round against Wicklow in Ballyforan last Sunday. The hosts ran out easy win-

ners in a match played in lovely conditions. Round three sees Roscommon travelling to Kerry this weekend, confident that they keep their current form going. U-16 panel: Andrea Fallon (Oran), Deborah Finneran (Four Roads), Eve McNeill (Roscommon Gaels), Anna Hussey (Oran), Grace Geraghty (Roscommon Gaels), Hannah Murray (St. Dominic’s), Aideen O’Brien (Athleague), Katlin Egan (St. Dominic’s), Lilly Murray (St. Dominic’s), Alannah Sutton (Roscommon Gaels), Hazel Kelly (Oran), Síofra Hession (Roscommon Gaels), Emma Connaughton (St. Dominic’s), Tara O’Brien (Athleague), Celine Gacquin (Four Roads),

Online Shop... Club clothing is available to purchase now in the Shop section of our website (www.roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie).

PEEL it...

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer) In association with the

Last week, we spoke about IDEAL coaching. Another way to coach a skill is to PEEL it. P - What is the purpose of the exercise/drill? E - Explain the drill. E - Allow the players to experience the drill/exercise. L - Look and listen to the players practicing the drill. What did they learn? What did you learn? Always take into account the age and stage of development of the player, especially with regard to their technical and physical ability. Increase the difficulty and complexity of the drill as players progress. Creative coaching leads to creative players.

On the field...

While the boys’ U-18 and girls’ U-16 teams had no games, the boys’ U-16s were in action twice in the space of a few days. Their first game was a league fixture away to St. Cuan’s United. Tommy Naughton’s free-kick rattled the crossbar but it was the home side who went ahead in the first half through a deflected free-kick. Town, however, came good in the second period. Naughton levelled proceedings before the same player set up Josh Limo to put Town ahead. A string of fine saves from the Cuan’s goalkeeper kept his side in the hunt but Town gained the three points. The lads then turned their attention to the cup final on Sunday last but were beaten by Glen Celtic. The absence of players didn’t aid their cause but they did well to reach the final. Tommy Naughton scored twice for the Town. The three boys’ U-14 teams played each other in a round robin series in the opening evening of the Sevens se-

The Hollywood Bar Superleague made a welcome return to Roscommon last weekend and it was Sean Fleming who claimed victory on opening night. Fleming beat Jason Owens 3-0 in the last 16 before overcoming the challenge of Mark Finneran by the same scoreline in the quarter-finals. In the last four, he saw off Martin Fleming 3-1 to book his place in the decider against Mick Egan. Egan, for his part, had beaten Alan Tobin 3-2 in the last 16 before a 3-1 win over Ken Turkington in the quarter-finals and a 3-0 victory against Thomas Concannon in the semis. The final itself was expected to be a close affair and so it proved with both players on form. Fleming rallied in the first to take a 1-0 lead before an 18dart leg from Egan tied matters up in the second. Not to be outdone, Fleming responded with his 18-dart leg to take the third before Egan responded once more to level at 2-2. The fifth and final leg was probably the best of the night as Egan started strongly with scores of 100, 180 and 140 to put Fleming under pressure. The Ballaghaderreen man responded in style however, and some clinical finishing sealed a very hard fought 3-2 win. Meanwhile, top finishing on the night came from Paul Carton (100 and 112) and Sean Fleming (110 and 112). However, it was David Cafferky who came out as top finisher with a 116 checkout. This week’s Superleague will continue on Friday night with the draw at 8.45 pm and first darts at 9 pm. Contact David on 086-0823180 for more details.

Caoimhe Walsh (St. Dominic’s), Ciara Killeen (Roscommon Gaels), Iona Hanly (St. Dominic’s), Emma O’Farrell (Roscommon Gaels), Maria Bolger (Four Roads), Emma Hough (Roscommon Gaels), Mia Kilcline (St. Dominic’s), Shauna Walsh (Roscommon Gaels), Orla Conroy (Tulsk), Grace Killion (Athleague), Anna Kiernan (Roscommon Gaels), Niamh Dawson (St. Dominic’s), Lorna Cruise (Pádraig Pearses), Eve Connaughton (St. Dominic’s), Shauna Mc Dermott (Oran). Management: Joint Managers: Sean O’Brien and Colm Kelly and selectors Kevin Rogers, Teresa Hession and Bernie Mulry.

ries. There were no games for the boys’ and girls’ U-12 sides. The boys’ U-11 sides played each other in the latest round of fixtures. Advik Kumar, Ethan Hanratty and Jayden Treacy scored in the EL game while in the CL game, Daniel Byrne (2) and Dominic Jacob hit the net with Town I prevailing in both games. A gentle reminder to parents to indicate player availability for matches ASAP through WhatsApp especially during this period of the season when people are on holidays. This enables our coaches to plan appropriately.

Player Profile... Name: Noah Feely Team: U-12 Position: Centre back Three words that describe me: Fast, Funny, Friendly Skill strength: Defending Skill weakness: Kick ups Favourite team: Liverpool Favourite player: Virgil van Dijk Favourite Irish player: Gavin Bazunu Best stadium in the world: Aviva Messi or Ronaldo or Neither: Ronaldo PlayStation or Xbox or Neither: PlayStation Favourite film: Fast and Furious Favourite food: Pizza Favourite book: Skulduggery Pleasant What makes me happy: Playing with friends

Person you admire the most: Virgil van Dijk Why I play soccer: To get better

Winner Sean Fleming (right) pictured with runner-up Mick Egan following the opening night of The Hollywood Bar Darts Superleague last weekend.

Pool

First Division Two title for Rosie’s Rosie’s Bar, Ballyleague, who play out of Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro, captured their first Division Two title recently following a 10-8 win over The Cosy Bar from Castlerea. Rosie’s faced at uphill battle at home in the second leg after The Cosy Bar had taken a 5-4 lead into the second leg following a stirring comeback in front of their own supporters. The scene for the second leg was Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro and Rosie’s were slow to get off the mark, Mick Higgins beating Darren Dunne to give the Castlerea side a 6-4 aggregate advantage. Rosie’s were not going to lie down, however, and soon clicked into gear with Noel Moran and Sean Moran defeating Niall Finneran and Patrick Sharkey respectively. Rosie’s then took the lead for the first time in the leg when the doubles pairing of Noel Moran and John Costello won a tactical battle against Niall Finneran and Jason Joyce. While The Cosy Bar won the next two doubles matches thanks to Joe O’Malley and Justin Dowd and Mick Higgins and Gus Greene, Rosie’s cam storming back to take the final three singles with Michael Lane, Alan Killeen and captain Fintan Duffy sealing a memorable win for the Ballyleague/Lanesboro team.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople On the ball: Evan McGrath pictured in action against Cathal Shine during Saturday’s O’Rourke Cup semi-final between Boyle and Clann na nGael in Rockfield. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

O’Rourke Cup

Western Gaels and Boyle in derby date The 2022 O’Rourke Cup Final will be contested between Boyle and Western Gaels in a North Roscommon derby showdown. The clubs qualified for this weekend’s title decider and a chance to win the famous Division One league trophy by virtue of hard-fought semi-final wins last weekend over Clann na nGael and St Brigid’s respectively. Josh Lennon hit seven points for a battling Clann, but it wasn’t enough as a very dogged Boyle secured the win in rain-soaked conditions, county star Donie Smith striking a

decisive 1-3, all from placed balls (the goal a penalty). Final score: Boyle 1-8 Clann na nGael 0-10. Meanwhile, Western Gaels edged out St. Brigid’s’ young guns, the Frenchpark club winning by 3-8 to 0-16. Ben O’Carroll scored 0-9 for the Kiltoom club but Western Gaels did enough to win, withstanding a late O’Carroll scoring burst from placed balls. This weekend’s final will be played on Sunday at Ballinameen, with Boyle and Western Gaels chasing O’Rourke Cup victory from 1 pm.

IN THE FRAME Weekend GAA in photos

Tommy Gill pictured trying to get possession of the ball during Sunday’s O’Rourke Cup semi-final between St Brigid’s and Western Gaels in Kilbride. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

James McDonnell makes his case to the referee (out of picture) during Sunday’s O’Rourke Cup semi-final between St Brigid’s and Western Gaels in Kilbride. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

We’ve done it! Western Gaels’ backroom team members pictured celebrating a job well done following their win over St Brigid’s in Sunday’s O’Rourke Cup Young Clann na nGael supporters pictured at Saturday’s O’Rourke Cup semifinal between Boyle and Clann na nGael in Rockfield. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell semi-final in Kilbride. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople Hurling

Niall nails it on the opening day Four Roads, Oran and Tremane all got off to winning starts in a goal-shy opening round to the 2022 Kepak Senior Hurling Club Championship in Athleague and Ballyforan on Sunday last. Tremane netted four times in their win over St Dominic’s, but oddly enough, the five teams in action apart from Tremane contributed a mere one goal between the five of them! Tremane’s 4-16 to 0-15 win over the Knockcroghery club was a decisive first outing, with dual star Niall Kilroy a hattrick with 3-5. Kilroy did most of the damage in the second half as Tremane eased to victory. Oran began their campaign with an impressive 1-23 to 0-12 win over Athleague, Paddy Fallon scoring 0-10 in a fine team display. Meanwhile, Four

Roads began the championship with a solid 0-21 to 0-10 win over a game Roscommon Gaels. *Round 2 of the Kepak Roscommon Senior Hurling Championshop takes place on this Sunday, 10th of July at Woodmount. At 2 pm Four Roads will be favourites against a St Dominic’s team who will be anxious to make amends for an opening day defeat. This is followed at 3.30 by Athleague taking on Padraig Pearses, a massive challenge for the former after their defeat last Sunday to Oran. Roscommon Gaels also face a daunting task, as they take on a confident Tremane. That said, all the underdogs will hope to upset the odds and there’s all to play for in this weekend’s round 2. Oran have a bye this weekend.

Action from the Kepak SHC match between Athleague and Oran. Pic: Mick McCormack

IN THE FRAME Weekend GAA in photos

Basil Jones on scoreboard duty for the Kepak SHC match between St. Dominic’s and Tremane. Pic: Mick McCormack

Action from last weekend’s opening round of Kepak SHC matches in Athleague. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople

One step from Croker!

Ladies hoping to bridge 21-year All-Ireland final gap TG4 All-Ireland Intermediate Ladies Football semi-final: Roscommon v Wexford at Crettyard, Co. Laois on Sunday at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Fiona Tully (pictured in action against Wexford in the NFL Division Three final) has been in impressive form this year. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon Ladies footballers are 60 minutes away from an AllIreland Intermediate final appearance as they travel to the Laois/ Kilkenny border to face Wexford in the semi-final on Sunday next. This has the makings of a fascinating clash, as Wexford will be highly motivated for the contest because not only were they defeated in last year’s final by Westmeath, they went down to Roscommon in the NFL Division Three final earlier this year too. It has been generally a very good year for Roscommon. Promotion in the league and a bit of silverware was always welcome in preparation for the championship, and Ollie Lennon and his management team have done a very good job with the panel this year. A superb display against Kildare has been the highlight so far

with some marvellous football on display in what was a ‘must win’ game. The win against Louth in the quarter-finals was a completely different type of performance with a really disciplined and very impressive all round team display which resulted in a comfortable victory. However, it must be said that there have been a few bumps in the road too. A very disappointing defeat to Leitrim in the Connacht final left many scratching their heads, while a late fade out in the match against Longford (the result didn’t matter) was also a warning to the team that they cannot afford to drop their guard. Roscommon will be hoping to build on an excellent defensive showing against Louth. Helena Cummins has loads of experience between the sticks and is one of Roscommon’s most important players and leaders. Sinead Kenny, Rachel Fitzmaurice and Rachel Brady were tenacious and in control against Louth and the full-back line is almost certain to have Caroline Conway in front of them as sweeper. The experienced Ballyboden club player was excellent against Louth and she will play a huge role once again this Sunday.

‘There’s more to come from us!’ – Fleming < SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon captain is St. Ciaran’s player Laura Fleming, who led by example in the quarter-final against Louth, scoring six points from midfield. She is looking forward to the Wexford clash on Sunday with optimism. “There is a great mood in our squad this year. We have a great bond at training and we have been working really hard in preparation for this semi-final. We know that it will not be easy but we are determined to leave no stone unturned,” she said.

Laura says that a win in the semifinal will be built on a solid defensive display: “Our defence has been good all year really but they were excellent against Louth. They played with such intensity and it was a great boost to the rest of the team”. Laura says that the league final clash will have no bearing on what happens on Sunday. “We beat them in the league final but both teams will admit that they didn’t play well that day and that’s why we are looking forward to Sunday’s game because we know that there is far more

in our team, and I would say there is much more in Wexford too. They will be determined to get back into another All-Ireland final but it’s our job to stop them,” she said. Laura says that to play in an All-Ireland final in Croke Park is what every player in Roscommon wants to do. ”The reason we play county football is to play in All-Ireland finals and to play in Croke Park too and that is the primary motivating factor for us as we prepare, and we will be doing everything in our power to make that happen,” she concluded.

Roscommon captain Laura Fleming pictured in action against Longford earlier this year. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

SportsPeople

Roscommon Ladies face Wexford in this Sunday’s TG4 All-Ireland Intermediate Ladies Football semi-final. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roisin Wynne, Aisling McAulliffe and Niamh Feeney have all been playing well in the half-back line and Wynne and Feeney will get forward as often as they can. Roscommon are very strong in the middle of the field where Lisa O’Rourke and captain Laura Fleming have both been outstanding this year. The midfield clash will have a huge bearing on Sunday’s result. Up front, Roscommon’s ace in the pack is Aisling Hanly, but outside her Jenny Shine has been playing some of the best football of her career at centre

half-forward. The leadership she has shown this year has been invaluable. Natalie McHugh is back to her best after being plagued by injuries in recent years while her younger sister Michaela, and Fiona Tully are improving with every outing. With Caroline Conway almost certain to be deployed in defence, Natalie McHugh and Aisling Hanly will play closest to goal, and Roscommon will hope that they will have the space to get the scores. Roscommon have been impressive off the bench too: Rosie Lennon,

Niamh Shanagher, Kate Nolan, Ellen Irwin and Sarah McVeigh have all appeared regularly and it is so important to have a strong panel for these championship games. Wexford will be very dangerous opponents. They were in a four-team group and won all of their games, beating Offaly, Wicklow, and Leitrim on their way to the quarter-finals. In the last eight, they faced Tyrone and won by 3-14 to 3-9. With five minutes left in that game it was 3-13 to 2-5 and a late surge from Tyrone that yielded 1-4 disguised what was an easy win

for the Model County. Their defeat in the All-Ireland final in 2021 will be a huge motivating factor for them. They were heavily beaten by Westmeath that day and they will be anxious to erase those memories this year. They have some outstanding players such as Ciara Banville, Aisling Murphy, Amy Wilson, Roisin Murphy, Aisling Halligan, and Sherene Hamilton. They are managed by well-known former camogie player and coach Lizzy Kent. and they will go into the game confident that they can get to the final.

When the sides met in the league final earlier in the year in Birr neither side played well and Roscommon scraped home by a point. That match and result will have very little consequence on Sunday. There is a huge prize on offer and it is 21 years since a Roscommon ladies team played in Croke Park on AllIreland final day. If Roscommon can display the same intensity as we saw against Louth and get the scores that we saw against Kildare, this is a game that can definitely be won. Prediction: Roscommon.

Ollie: ‘We can compete with anyone’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Ollie Lennon’s biggest test since becoming Roscommon ladies manager will come on Sunday. The popular Clann na nGael man and his management team have engendered a very positive mindset amongst the players this year and the mood in the camp is extremely upbeat. “We won’t be changing too much for Sunday. The principles will be the same. We know that we can compete with any team in this championship and this match against Wexford is the same,” Lennon told People Sport this week. Roscommon and Wexford clashed in the league final earlier in the year with the Rossies winning by a point, and Ollie says that they will be formidable opponents. “They have had four wins in the championship so far so they will come in with momentum. They also had a great win against Tyrone who were fancied to beat them. They were beaten in the All-Ireland final last year and were beaten by us in the league final so they will be smarting from those defeats so they will be highly motivated to get back into the final,” he said. Ollie says that the positive mood in the Roscommon camp is a big plus as they prepare for the semi-final. “It is great to have all the girls with such a positive mindset. It’s very important for players to be enjoying playing and training and that’s what we have here. They are all in great form and they have done everything we have asked them to do in terms of training and tactics. They are a very honest bunch and we cannot ask any more from them. “We have players in our squad who have had heart-breaking defeats in All-Ireland semi-finals in the past and I am hoping that the hurt they felt will motivate them on Sunday as they don’t want to experience that again”.

Ollie Lennon (second from left) and his management team will be hoping to mastermind another victory over Wexford this Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

An appearance on the biggest day of the year in Ladies’ Gaelic football in Croke Park on Sunday, July 31st is what it’s all about. “Look there is no denying it: every player wants to play in Croke Park on All-Ireland final day and anyone who tells you anything different is not telling the truth. This bunch of

girls is no different, and they are 60 minutes away now. It will be tough but we are capable of winning,” Ollie added. Finally, Ollie has called for a big Roscommon crowd there to cheer the team on. “Ladies’ football is a very attractive game

to watch, in fact there are many who say that it is a far more attractive game to watch than the men’s game at the moment. We hope that anyone who can, will come out and support the girls on the day. They certainly deserve it and it would be a big boost to them on Sunday,“ he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 08 July 2022

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