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THUMBS UP! St. Faithleach’s’ AIB Connacht Intermediate Football Championship heroics got the seal of approval from these young supporters at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday last. See match report on page 63. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Home Heating Oil 75.9c per litre end of life vehicles SolicitorsBookings now Available MEDICAL ACCIDENTS If you were injured in a cycling accident that ATHLONE Ι MOATE Ι LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY certs • Destruction McGUINNESS Hynes Pharmacy issued was not your fault Green Diesel Pharmacy • 24/7 recovery service Castle Street, Roscommon. Main Street, Roscommon 83.9c per litre available nationwide Contact T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789 Tel. (090) 66 34147 ATHLONE Ι MOATE Ι LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY

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ATHLONE Ι O MOATE Ι ΙLANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY ATContact HL N M ODepartment AT E Ι L AinN E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LW AY ourEProperty

Byrne CarolanCarolan Cunningham Solicitors ATHLONE Ι MOATE Ι LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY Byrne Cunningham LLP Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP Byrne AT HCarolan L E Cunningham M O AT E Solicitors Ι L AN E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LW AY If you were involved in sales an accident that was ATHLONE Ι O MOATE Ι ΙLANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY for advice onN property and purchases for advice on property sales and purchases Solicitors notSolicitors your fault contact

Byrne Carolan Solicitors * In contentious business, aCunningham solicitor may not calculate fees or other Dedicated Medical Negligence Department PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS * In contentiousMedical business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other Dedicated Negligence Department charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

McGregor, Bono, Mick Jagger … and The Fairytale of New York! Let’s not mention the C word this week… PLEASE! Not mention Christmas? You’re such a Grinch! NO! NOT Christmas! I’m guessing you mean Cov… DON’T MENTION IT!

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

090 647 8433

Christmaswww.bccsolicitors.ie Shopping Advice

1. Remember your consumer rights Under the Sale of Goods Act you are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund if an item is faulty, not fit for its purpose or not as described. 2. Keep receipts If an item is faulty it is much easier to get redress if you can produce proof of purchase. 3. Gift receipts If buying a gift ask for a gift receipt. It will not state the price of the item but will provide the recipient of the gift with proof of purchase if a fault arises. 4. Gift vouchers If buying a gift voucher check for an expiry date and ensure that the person receiving it will be able to use it in the required time. Keep the gift voucher safely as shops are not obliged to replace lost vouchers. 5. Check the item when you get home If an item is faulty it is important to act quickly, so always check that products are working as soon as you get them home.

(They pause to remember the good old days,

CYCLING ACCIDENT otherwise known as January 2020)

Let’s talk aboutinother stuff… If you were involved a cycling What else is there to talk about? accident contact

Are you for real? Byrne Carolan Well, there is SOME other stuff… Cunningham Solicitors Mmnn… I mean, Christmas isn’t exactly cancelled, it’s still happening. Yeah, true… We need to embrace it, spend time with family, create happy memories… Not easy in this climate, but I agree! It’s a time for joy, happiness, reflection, presents! (They pause to listen out for the day’s first playing of ‘Fairytale of New York’…and are obliged within a minute or two) What’s it all about? Life? I often wonder… No, NOT LIFE. That song… Fairytale? Yeah… It’s about two people who were very close but they argue from time to time…and I think they’re partial to the odd drink. Bizarre! Huh? Two people who like the odd drink and are generally very close but are prone to the odd disagreement? Doesn’t remind me of anyone! Well… I mean…seriously!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Oh right, I see where you went with that, well you and I get on most of the time! We’re hardly the stuff of a Christmas classic though! Anyways, what did you think of that force of nature? Yeah, pretty dramatic! Some guy said it would hit the country like a freight train, come out of nowhere! Yeah! Wild, destructive, causing havoc… Yeah, Storm Barra was formidable… Storm Barra? I meant Conor McGregor! Huh? He’s back in the news! He’s a force of nature, he’s wild, he’s destructive! What’s he up to now? He wants Ireland to leave the EU! What does he know about politics and international affairs?

Well it never stopped Bono! (They pause to check if there’s any update on McGregor’s call for Ireland to exit the EU) He’s a dirty street fighter, you know! Well it’s competitive in the music business, to be fair… Huh? I know there were rumours that he got into a bunfight with Mick Jagger backstage at a charity concert, but they’re unconfirmed! WHAT? And I certainly don’t believe that story about Bob Geldof having to hold Bono back while Joe Elliott kept Jagger in a headlock! These stories get exaggerated! WHAT ARE YOU ON ABOUT? You said Bono is a dirty street fighter, I’m standing up for him! Showbiz can be tough, competitive! I WAS TALKING ABOUT McGREGOR! HE’S a dirty street fighter! Oh, sorry! (They pause to desperately try to get the image of Joe Elliott holding Mick Jagger in a headlock out of their minds) So would that be called a McGrexit? Huh? If Ireland left the EU at the behest of a Conor McGregor-led campaign? You know…McGrexit? Yeah, I know…anyways, he has no credibility, not on those issues at least! I agree! Mind you, a good fighter… Yep! But controversial, divisive… Yep! Think I’d prefer a pint with Bono! Yep! So Conor’s off our list too? Huh? Another ‘C’ word we need a break from!

6. Online shopping In addition to your basic consumer rights, online shoppers are entitled, in most cases, to return an unwanted item within seven days of receipt for a no-quibble refund. Postage and packing charges are not usually refundable however. Always check that the seller is reputable.

What we liked… The Christmas lights have been switched on in most towns and villages across the county in recent days, adding welcome colour, sparkle and positivity in these tough times. Congratulations to all the fantastic volunteers in our community who make this happen every year!

7. Health & Safety Look out for the CE marking when buying toys and electrical items. The mark shows that the item conforms to essential EU health and safety requirements. 8. Watch out for scams If offered toys or other gifts at a ‘knock-down price’, check if the items are authentic. You have no comeback if the item is counterfeit.

What we didn’t like… Storm Barra…come on, we’ve had more than enough doom and gloom!

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

What PEOPLE are talking about…

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

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

Pic of the Week: Erin and Isla Coyle pictured at the Santa Experience at Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea last weekend. Pic: Mick McCormack

Storm Barra; Renewed Covid-19 restrictions; Face masks for kids; Clampdown on NPHET’s access to media; GAA county finals; 100 years on from signing of The Treaty…

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

The

D News page

St. John’s Vintage Run raises €2k for Western Alzheimer’s The St. John’s Lecarrow Vintage Run on October 31st experienced a great turnout with tractors and machinery as well as classic cars of all makes and models taking part on the day and a total of €2,000 raised for the

Western Alzheimer’s Association. Deirdre Walsh gratefully accepted the cheque from organiser Brendan Donnelly on November 26th on behalf of the Western Alzheimer’s Association.

Picture is Deirdre Walsh accepting a cheque for €2,000 on behalf of the Western Alzheimer’s Association from organisers of the recent St. John’s Lecarrow Vintage Run.

The recent St. John’s Vintage Run was a great success with tractors and classic cars of all makes and models taking part.

Ballygar NS wins first prize in 3M Smart Earth Challenge! Ballygar National School has won €575 in prize money as the winners of the science-based technology company 3M’s Smart Earth Challenge poster competition. Fifth and sixth class pupils, Alex, Dominik, Saibhe, and Simone designed the winning entry, a pedal-powered iPad and heated seat, for the new sustainability poster competition for schools. The winning idea involves a desk and chair with pedals connected to a generator. Pedal power is converted into energy, with a socket to plug in and charge electronic devices and a switch to heat the seat. The judges were impressed with how creative and practical the invention was and how it could be used reduce the school’s carbon footprint. A total of 29 entries, involving 65 pupils, were received for the Ireland pilot of the 3M Smart Earth Challenge from three schools close to 3M’s manufacturing facility in Athlone. They were judged by members of 3M’s European Sustainability team against criteria based around the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, including concepts such as recycling, energy conservation and climate action. Speaking about the winning entry, Siobhan Heanue said: “This is such a clever idea! It’s also a great fit with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of sustainable energy and wellbeing. Congratulations Alex, Dominik, Saibhe and Simon”. Commenting on the award, Ballygar principal Helene Hanley said: “The 3M Smart Earth Science competition was a fantastic initiative which immediately engaged our students given the issue of climate change. “Both students and parents alike showed a tremendous interest in the challenge and we look forward to entering again next year. In the meantime, while planning how to allocate the 3M prize money we will continue to raise awareness for sustainable energy. My thanks go to class teachers, Orla Cormican and Elizabeth McManus, for helping with and encouraging such wonderful entries from our pupils”.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

Storm Barra leaves almost 2,000 Roscommon homes without power Almost 2,000 incidences of power outages were reported to have taken place in county Roscommon on Tuesday as a result of Storm Barra. Storm Barra hit the country in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and continued to cause disruption into Wednesday evening. Almost 60,000 homes and business across Ireland lost power due to the

storm, with schools in particularly affected counties being closed and several areas experiencing flooding, damage, and travel disruption. According to the ESB Network’s powercheck.ie, which gives a live account of power outages in the country and restoration times, almost 2,000 businesses across County Roscommon lost power on Tues-

Heartiest congratulations to Lisa and the Cuddy family on their outstanding performance at the weekend in RTE’s ‘Fittest Family’ Lisa Cuddy is photographed here modelling one of Rita Oates Artist latest scarf creations, available online or instore at ETL, Roscommon town

day, with Boyle experiencing the most outages (over 1,300) and further outages in areas such as Cloonfad, Castlerea, and Roscommon town (over 400). Disruptions to power service continued overnight for some home and business owners, with restoration work being undertaken on Wednesday to repair the damage done by Storm Barra.

Ward wants handball champion Siobhan honoured by Council Cllr. Tony Ward (Independent) has called on Roscommon County Council to formally recognise the achievements of handball champion Siobhan Treacy by honouring her at their next Civic Reception. Siobhan, of Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon, recently won the delayed 2020 60x30 Girls U-17 All-Ireland Handball title, defeating Kilkenny’s Lauren Power in the final. Cllr. Ward received unanimous support when he made this proposal at a recent Athlone Municipal meeting. Siobhan followed up on her 60x30 win with victory in the 40x20 category, meaning

Phone: 090 66 24078

she collected two All-Ireland titles in recent weeks. Cllr. Ward: “This is a stunning achievement. I feel it’s so important to acknowledge the wonderful commitment of our young people in sport, and across other areas of life too. Specifically in sport, there is so much commitment given by players, parents, coaches, – it really is a great credit to all concerned. “I am delighted to confirm that my call to have Siobhan’s success formally recognised received unanimous support and I look forward to her inclusion soon in a Civic Reception hosted by the Council”.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday

Lineker presenting a show (which, thanks to Google, I now know to be called ‘Sitting on a Fortune’) on ITV/ Virgin Media. I was even more surprised to see his occasional Match of the Day colleague Ian Wright presenting a show (‘Moneyball’), also on Virgin Media. What next? Bowls with Alan Shearer (recommended for insomniacs)? Mastermind with David Beckham?

An unusual headline in The Guardian addresses one of the key issues of our time: ‘Boris is no clown and this is not a circus’. The article references the response of readers to a diplomatic row between the UK and France, amid reports that French President Emmanuel Macron allegedly called British PM Boris Johnson a “clown” and a “knucklehead”. One letter to the Editor of the Guardian is from a French man who takes issue with the translation of what may or may not have been said; he helpfully suggests that ‘cirque’ should not be translated as ‘circus’ and that ‘shambles’ or ‘madhouse’ would be more appropriate. Meanwhile, a reader from Brighton wrote in to say that Macron calling Johnson a clown was “grossly insulting to clowns… They are engaged in a serious profession; Johnson isn’t”. Nobody seems to have the appetite or expertise to address the ‘knucklehead’ claim.

Friday Another Friday, another long walk…from freedom. Yet again a Taoiseach descends those steps – glum-faced, and clasping another speech of sober tidings. The public, some of them at least, wearily wait for the gloomy leaks of previous days to be confirmed, the overworked speechwriters having scrambled again to re-heat past speeches and somehow skilfully flavour them with new qualifications and aspirations, desperately trying to bridge the gaps between despair, reality and credible hope. Micheál doesn’t have quite the same gravitas and self-assurance as his predecessor, Leo, but the current incumbent does just fine on these now familiar showpiece occasions. I imagine the ‘scares from the stairs’ attract a lot less viewers than in the early days. 21 months into this shocking saga, the public is extremely weary, some people are no longer listening, and in any event, every big announcement has been well leaked before being delivered. This really isn’t how it was meant to be. Micheál hasn’t whipped another lockdown out of the hat – they probably wouldn’t dare – but it’s still a step back into the recent past. Some will feel that the Government is over-reacting, others will accept the argument that this is a wise pre-emptive move.

Monday

Young supporters pictured at Dr. Hyde Park recently for the AIB Connacht IFC Semi-Final between St. Faithleach’s and St. Farnan’s. Pic: Mick McCormack

The returned restrictions are a massive blow to the nightclub industry, with implications too for others in the hospitality/entertainment sectors. Clearly the aim is to reduce Covid-19 cases numbers, minimise the pressure on hospitals, and reduce social interaction at a time when there is both concern over and a lack of knowledge about the Omicron variant. Somehow, within these confines, businesses have to try to stagger on, while a fatigued public works on having as fulfilling a Christmas as the current climate facilitates. It is regrettable that there is still a degree of resistance to vaccination in the community, nor is it helpful that some people are brazenly disregarding the advice which society has been asked to follow.

Saturday On a lighter note: As is now tradition, yesterday an RTE reporter naturally had to be interrupted in mid-sentence by a newsreader announcing that the Taoiseach was about to begin his address. Mícheál Lehane didn’t even get to be the interrupted reporter this time; the honour fell to Mary Regan. (Maybe it’s the same on Virgin Media, I tuned in to RTE). Having enjoyed different experiences in my time on the media scene, I’ve now decided that one of my remaining ambitions is to have

a spell as the reporter who always has to be interrupted by an RTE news anchor on a very important occasion. Yesterday, before she was interrupted, Mary Regan was already telling us what NPHET had been telling Micheál and Leo and Eamon before they told Cabinet colleagues before they told drained spin doctors before someone told the media before someone else told the dogs in the street before Micheál formally told us…what we already knew. Analyse that, Mícheál Lehane.

Saturday ‘JINGLE HELL!’ screamed one of the tabloid front pages today, in reference to another dash of Christmas spirit- dampening by our masters. ‘Jingle Hell’ might be a bit extreme, but at least one tabloid sub-editor is happy!

Sunday I read that smug comedian Romesh Ranganathan is to present a new version of the once very popular quiz show The Weakest Link (presented in its prime by Anne Robinson). To which, as per Anne, I say… Goodbye! Speaking of quiz show presenters, I was surprised earlier last week to see Gary

Sports fans, there’s a basic truth I need to share with you all. It could be that Marcelo Bielsa, second-season jitters notwithstanding, remains a wonderful, eccentric and oddly charismatic newcomer to the Premier League with Leeds. It could be that Joe Brolly, while a good writer in the Sindo, can sometimes ‘cross a line’. It could be that Ronnie O’Sullivan can sometimes be just as infuriating. It could even be that although his passion can elevate his commentaries to a very high level, RTE’s rugby man Michael Corcoran can be annoyingly partisan (I know, not a popular view). I could go on. But this week, the truism I want to declare to the world is one I presume all sports fans who consume and appreciate quality media coverage will agree with. It is this: Joe Molloy (Off The Ball, Newstalk) and Virgin Media rugby anchor, is no longer ‘just’ the rising star of Irish sports broadcasting: He is the best, the outstanding sports’ broadcaster/ presenter in Ireland. The very best. Magnificent. That’s it.

Tuesday Storm Barra is raging and it’s definitely not wise to be out driving, walking, etc. Even in inland Roscommon, it’s pretty wild as I write (9 pm). An evening for the TV, for sure. Meantime, on my laptop, after checking emails and doing a few bits for the paper, over a cup of tea I dive back into the ‘This is Your Life’ archives which I’ve been enjoying on YouTube lately. It’s 1973, and Eamonn Andrews has managed to snare the unpredictable and brilliant Spike Milligan. Each time Eamonn reads a short snippet from his famous big red book, a new guest appears on the stage to surprise Spike. Eamonn: “It’s 1939 now, and over the water, your future adversary, Adolf Hitler, has plans that are soon to see you in a new job…” Spike: “He’s not here tonight, is he?”

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

Council pressed to remove ‘dangerous’ bend at Cam Roscommon County Council is to seek funding to remove what has been described as a “very dangerous bend” at Cam, Brideswell. The Council confirmed its position after concerns were raised by Cllr. Tony Ward at a recent Athlone Municipal meeting. Cllr. Ward had called on the Council and TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) to remove the “very dangerous” bend on the regional road R363 at Cam, Brideswell, Athlone. He said there are “nine or ten” accidents at the location every year and locals are fearful for pub-

lic safety. He said it is essential that the bend is removed. Cllr. Ward has also signalled his intent to explore the Active Travel programme to further enhance facilities for people in the area. The Council responded: “RCC will apply for a Low Cost Safety Scheme in 2023 to the Department of Transport to remove the bend, subject to a land agreement being in place”. The Council added that the TII no longer has a function in relation to roads adjacent to Cam, Brideswell, Athlone.

McDermott voices concern over road safety on Racecourse Road Fianna Fáil Councillor Marty McDermott has highlighted safety concerns on the Racecourse Road at the junction of Corrib Oil, Horan’s restaurant, and the Paddocks housing estate, having been approached by local residents about the problem. “I have requested that Roscommon County Council send a letter to the (TII) Transport Infrastructure Ireland,” Cllr. McDermott said. “I did suggest that driver feedback signs be erected to slow the speeding traffic approaching Roscommon town. “I have been approached by concerned residents in the area and I believe these measures would help the situation. There have been several serious accidents recently at this junction,” he concluded.

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Fianna Fáil Councillor Marty McDermott has highlighted safety concerns on the Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Roscommon County Council | Tel. 090 6637100 | Email: info@roscommoncoco.ie | www.roscommoncoco.ie All offices of Roscommon County Council are now open to the public by prior appointment 9.30am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday

ROSCOMMON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2021 – 2027 Planning and Development Acts 2000 (as amended) & Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) & Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004-2011

Notice of Proposed Material Alterations to the Draft Roscommon County Development Plan 2021-2027 Notice is hereby given that the Members of Roscommon County Council, having considered the Draft Roscommon County Development Plan 2021–2027 and the Chief Executive’s Report in respect of submissions received, have resolved in accordance with Section 12 (6) and (7) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), that the Draft Development Plan be amended. The proposed amendments constitute Material Alterations to the Draft Roscommon County Development Plan 2021-2027. The likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the proposed Material Alterations have been assessed. Public Display: A copy of the proposed Material Alterations to the Draft Roscommon County Development Plan 2021–2027, the determinations in accordance with Section 12 (7) (aa) of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the information on the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the proposed Material Alterations will be on display from 7th December 2021 until 14th January 2022 inclusive and may be viewed in the following ways: Online

• On the dedicated Roscommon County Development Plan website: www.rosdevplan.ie

And

Community Monuments Fund 2022 Roscommon County Council in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage are inviting applications for the “Community Monuments Fund 2022”. The Community Monuments Fund will enable conservation works to be carried out on monuments which are deemed to be significant and in need of urgent support; build resilience in our monuments to enable them to withstand the effects of climate change; encourage access to monuments and improve their presentation. The Community Monuments Fund has 3 Streams: Stream 1 is aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments Stream 2 is for development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports that are aimed at identifying measures for conservation of archaeological monuments and improving public access. Stream 3 is for enhancement of access infrastructure and interpretation (including virtual/ online) at archaeological monuments. Scheme information and Application Forms are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie or by contacting the Heritage Office on 090 6637228 or heritage@roscommoncoco.ie All applications shall be marked “Community Monuments Fund 2022” and submitted by email to heritage@roscommoncoco.ie before 5.00p.m. on Monday 14th February 2022. Majella Hunt Director of Services Roscommon County Council F42 VR98

Roscommon County Council Offices (during public opening times)

• Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon

Submissions/Observations: Roscommon County Council hereby invites any interested parties to make submissions or observations regarding the proposed Material Alterations, the associated SEA Screening Determination and SEA Environmental Report (which includes information on the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the proposed amendment) and the associated AA Screening Determination and AA Screening Report, in writing / electronically via the website, to the Planning Authority between the 7th December 2021 and 14th January 2022 (both dates inclusive). Children or groups and associations representing the interests of children are entitled to make submissions or observations regarding objectives and policies to deliver an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the development plan. All observations or submissions (relating to the proposed material alterations) received during the above time period will be taken into consideration before the making of the Roscommon County Development Plan 2021-2027. Submissions or observations may be made either: (a) In writing to: Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. (Correspondence to be marked ‘Material Alterations on the Draft Roscommon County Development Plan 2021 – 2027’) or (b) In electronic format on the dedicated website at www.rosdevplan.ie Please note submissions or observations that are emailed cannot be considered and will be returned. The deadline for receipt of all submissions is 5.30pm on 14th January 2022. Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or via the website. Please note that submissions that do not relate to a proposed amendment cannot be taken into consideration. Submissions should quote the relevant material alteration reference number(s). Data Protection In accordance with Section 12(8A) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, written observations or submissions received by Roscommon County Council shall be published on the Council’s website within 10 working days of their receipt. All submissions should include your name and a contact address, and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent. To assist Roscommon County Council in complying with data protection legislation, you are asked to provide this information on a separate sheet. This processing of your personal data is lawful under Article 6 (1)(e) of the GDPR regulations. The Council’s Data Protection Policy, is available at http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Freedom_of_Information/Data%20Protection/Data-ProtectionPoliciesProcedures-Corporate-Data-Protection-Policy.pdf The policy is also available in hard copy upon request. Signed:

Shane Tiernan Director of Services - Roads and Transportation, Active Travel, Emergency Services, Building Control, Planning and Boyle MD Area Manager

Date: 7th December 2021

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) - Part 8 Applicant: Roscommon County Council Location: Ardnanagh Td, Lisnamult, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon Proposal: Pursuant to the requirements of the above, notice is hereby given of … A Proposed Residential Development at Ardnanagh Td., Lisnamult, Roscommon. The proposed development will consist of: The construction of 11 no. new residential units and conversion/extension of existing house to 2 no. apartment units with an overall proposed units of 13 in two separate sites no. 1 & 2. Site no. 1 will consist of the demolition of dwelling house, side and rear boundary walls, storage sheds and construction of (a) 4 no. 2 bed terrace units (House Type A). (b.) 2 no. 1 bed Duplex Apartments (House Type B and B1). (c.) 2 no. 1 Bed Duplex Apartments (House Type C and C1) with 2 parking spaces to rear. (d) conversion of existing two storey detached house no. 4 to north to 2 no. Units of 2 bed Duplex Apartments, new shared parking area to rear for 7 parking spaces and 1 disabled parking space. Site no. 2 will consist of 3 no. 2 bed terrace units with altered access and 3 no. off-street parking spaces with all associated site development works including construction of access roads, footpaths, public & private open spaces, car parking spaces, boundary wall/fence, street lighting, ducting for utilities, hard & soft landscaped areas, diversion, and formation of new connections to existing foul/surface water drainage and existing utilities. An appropriate assessment screening report and environmental impact assessment screening report of the proposed development has been completed and is available for inspection with this development. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required, and that the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 appropriate assessment. Where any person considers that a development proposed to be carried out would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, he or she may, at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks beginning on the date of publication of the notice referred to in Article 81(2), apply to An Bord Pleanala for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such effects. Plans and Particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy for a period of 4 weeks from 10/12/2021 during public opening hours at the offices of the Housing Department, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon. Plans and particulars can also be viewed online on the Roscommon County Council website at the following link: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/About_Us/PART-8-Local-Authority-OwnDevelopments/Housing/ A submission or observation in relation to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made, in writing or via email before 4pm on 04/02/2022, marked “Ardnanagh Housing Development” and submitted to: Housing Department, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon. Or Housing@roscommoncoco.ie Signed; - Majella Hunt, Director of Services 10th December 2021

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople galway to athlone

Public consultation no. 3

Emerging Preferred Route Corridor Project Vision

The vision for the project is to develop a world class trail, from Galway to Athlone, that will complete the Galway to Dublin route, which is of a scale and singularity that will allow Ireland to tap into the growing tourism market for cycling. It will be scenic, sustainable, be a strategic link, with lots to see and do, be substantially segregated from motor traffic and welcome a wide variety of users. It will be developed in co-operation with local communities and offer real benefits to them.

PROGRESS TO DATE Public Consultation No. 2 was held in January 2021. Once Covid-19 restrictions eased in May 2021 Project Liaison Officers met with landowners to explore route options and discuss any issues or concerns. The feedback received was considered to develop the Emerging Preferred Route Corridor. The route corridor is well defined where routing appears clear, for example through state-owned lands such as Coillte forestry tracks and Bord na Móna railways. Elsewhere the corridor is wider and future discussions with landowners will form the basis for developing a route within the corridor.

We welcome your local information The Emerging Preferred Route Corridor can be viewed online in the Virtual Consultation Room which will be live on the project website (www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com) from the 08th December 2021 and will run until the 31st January 2022.To help finalise the Cycleway route within the corridor, we would like to hear any additional information you have about the Emerging Preferred Route Corridor that may not be on a map or already known by the project team. This local information is vital to help our project team to finalise their studies and design work. (iii) DO NOT SCALE, use figured dimensions only, if in doubt ask.

(iv) Hard copies, dwf and pdf will form a controlled issue of the drawing. All other formats (dwg etc) are deemed to be an uncontrolled issue and any work carried out based on these files is at the recipients own risk. RPS will not accept any responsibility for any errors from the use of these files, either by human error by the recipient, listing of the un-dimensioned I01 11.01.21 measurements, compatibility with the recipients software, and any errors arising when these files are used to aid the No. Date recipients drawing production, or setting out on site.

Checked

Approved Date

C M SM

For Information

Amendment / Issue

GALWAY TO ATHLONE CASTLE NATIONAL CYCLEWAY

CMcG

11.01.21

All Levels refer to Ordnance Survey Datum, Malin Head.

Scale 1:200,000 @ A3

App

Job No.

Title

PUBLIC CONSULTATION ROUTE CORRIDORS

This drawing is the property of RPS Consulting Engineers, it is a confidential document and must not be copied, used, or its content divulged without prior written consent.

D C rn. hk.

(i)

(ii)

MGT0525

File Ref.

MGT0525RO0000

Drg. No.

RO0000- 01

Rev.

D01

Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence No. EN0005020 © Ordnance Survey Ireland/Government of Ireland

If your property is within the Emerging Preferred Route Corridor, we would encourage you to contact us with any information that would inform the project team. We can be contacted through the online virtual consultation platform on the project website, where you may book an appointment to talk to the project team, or by calling the Cycleway Project Office in Ballinasloe at 091 509267. Project Liaison Officers will be available to meet by appointment, in compliance with the applicable COVID-19 protocols. Further information and updates on the project are available on www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com

You can make submissions or observations by: Email: info@galwaytoathlonecycleway.com Website: www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com Phone No: (091) 509267 Project News and Updates will be available on: www.galwaytoathlonecycleway.com

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 (as amended) CONTAE ROS COMÁIN PLANNINGCOMHAIRLE & DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (as amended)

Kelly seeks playground facilities for Curraghboy/Brideswell

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000DEVELOPMENT (as amended) NOTICE IN RELATION TO SPECIFIED PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 (as amended) Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of Section 179 of the Planning and DevelopNOTICE IN RELATION TO SPECIFIED DEVELOPMENT

Cllr. Emer Kelly has called on tourists with children to stop in Roscommon County Council on their way through the village. to provide support in obtaining “Since the onset of the Covplayground facilities in the Cur- id-19 pandemic, people appreraghboy and Brideswell area. ciate amenities that are close to Speaking to the Roscommon their homes. I think even now ment Act 2000 (as amended) and Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations People this week, the Inde-(as as we are seeing an increase in given pursuant to the provisions of Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 2001 (as amended) that Roscommon County Council proposes carrying out the following pendent councillor said: “There the number of people working icle 81 ofworks: the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) that County from home and wanting to be at are Roscommon currently no playground facilities in this area which is home, the availability of these arrying out the following works: unusual as most villages, even resources and amenities locally Provision of Car and Boat Trailer Parking Area at Lackan Townland, small ones have some form of are going to become increasplayground facilities. They are ingly important and increasPortrunny, Co. Roscommon to include: n Outdoor Performance & Public Space at Somers Park, Castlerea to include: an amenity regularly used by ingly sought after in our towns local families and children. I and villages. • Provision of apath paved ways parkingwith area with defined parking spaces to Paved hard surface and landscaping. see it here in my own village “I think there is a large void in accommodate cars and Covered Performance Space, toboat be trailers. covered with a canopy type Structure. and surrounding villages, the this area without a playground playgrounds are aways full with and I have been approached Permanent Seating toofaccommodate approx. additional persons • Extension existing public footpath along100 front persons, boundary ofwith families and children, and act as by residents in the area seek proposed parking area with the public road. a meeting and social point for ing this facility. While I underto be accommodated with temporary Seating. families. They also act as a point stand playground require large of attraction for visitors and amounts of funding, equipment Cabling and •power points for 3-phase power lighting. Provision of roadside stone boundary wall,and site perimeter fencing, public lighting & height restriction barrier at access points to the Fully accessible picnic benches. proposed parking area.

All associated Site & Ancillary Works.

Rooskey man and Doras CEO John Lannon will lead a special anniversary sessment screening report and Environmental Impact Assessment screening report in respect of the event online this An Appropriate Assessment screening report and Environmental Impact Assessment screene been carried out and are available for inspection. The reports concluded that a (Thursday, full EIAR is not evening ing report in respect of the development have been carried out and are available for inspecDecember 9th) the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment. tion. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required and that the development does not to mark the 21st considers that a development proposed to be carried out would be likely to have significant anniversary of the effects need to proceed to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment. national migrant nt, he or she at any timethat before the expiration ofcarried 4 weeks beginning of publication Wheremay, any person considers a development proposed to be out would be likely on the and date refugee organisation. have significant on the he or she may, at any time before thedetermination expirared to intoarticle 81(2),effects apply toenvironment, An Bord Pleanála for a screening as to whether the

• All other associated site and ancillary works.

tion of 4 weeks beginning on the date of publication of the notice referred to in article 81(2), d be likely to have such effects. apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such effects.

ons Apply 19 Restrictions Apply ars of theCOVID proposed development will be available for inspection (in the front windows only) at the Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection (in the mon County Áras Chontae, Roscommon Town. and particulars will be available for front Council, window only) at thean offices of Roscommon County Council, Áras anPlans Chontae, Roscommon. Plansthe and particulars will becost available purchase a (atcopy) a fee notfrom exceeding the reasonanot exceeding reasonable offormaking 14th December 2021 to 18th January ble cost of making a copy) from 9th December 2021 to 13th January 2022 inclusive, during ring office hours (subject to prior agreed appointment for collection due to Covid 19) at the offices office hours (subject to prior agreed appointment for collection due to Covid 19) at the offices Enterprise, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Áras Chontae, Roscommon of Community and Enterprise, Roscommon County Council, an Chontae, Roscommon Town – telephone 09066 Townof – telephone 09066 37100. Plans and particulars of the proposed developmentfor will also particulars the proposed development will also be available inspection online on the RCC be available for inspection online on the RCC website using the following link: following link: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/!46ZYA3 http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/!4GWPU3

Roscommon man leads special event to mark 21 years of Doras

Rooskey man, John Lannon, is is very much a community, and leading the proceedings for a we belong to the community. special anniversary event, tak“Most importantly, we are here ing place online this evening to serve and protect the rights (Thursday, December 9th). The of migrants, refugees, and asyevent marks the 21st anniversa- lum seekers, who are among ry of Doras, a national migrant the most vulnerable in our sociand refugee organisation, while ety today. They are always front also reflecting on twenty-one and centre in everything we do, years of the Direct Provision and they are also our inspiration. system and theplanning campaign to end the challenges that they bservations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with the proper and Seeing Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with the it. face every day, and all they have proper andwhich sustainable development of the areawould in which be the development Rooskeyinman and former opment of theplanning area in the development situated, would may be made writing toSt. the had to overcome to be here, it Mel’s student, John Lannon, powers us on. be situated, may be made in writing to the undersigned on or before 5pm on 28th January before 5pm on 1st February 2022. first got involved with the or“Ireland has a rich history of 2022. ganisation as a volunteer back migration across the world. We in 2006, and is now the CEO. left these shores in our droves Signed: - Majella Hunt He says the 21st anniversary is and it’s so important we do all ajella Hunt a hugely important milestone: we can to support those who Director of Services rector of Services “We feel it’s important to hon- come to these shores seeking Áras an Chontae our the vision and dedication refuge, protection, and a better as an Chontae Roscommon Town of the original founders of the life”. organisation, and all those who Doras is appealing for ongoing Town Email: mhunt@roscommoncoco.ie oscommon have worked so hard to get us funds, as well as asking people Date of Notice: 9th December 2021 to where we are today. Doras to support its Christmas Appeal. mail: mhunt@roscommoncoco.ie Date of Notice: 14th December 2020

Cllr. Emer Kelly

and resources and the process takes times, there does appear to be interest in the project. Roscommon County Council has informed me these projects are generally community driven, and CLÁR funding may be available to help support the project if it develops”.

newsbriefs Transition Year students on RosFm! Students from Roscommon Community College transition year took to the airwaves on Tuesday as they produced and recorded their own show as part of RosFM’s policy of working with second-level students. Students from Roscommon CBS and the Convent of Mercy will produce similar programmes before the end of the school year.

St Vincent de Paul make annual appeal Today in Ireland, it can still take just one small problem, such as an unexpected illness or bill, to tip many people into crisis and poverty. However, St. Vincent de Paul know that a little help at the right time can halt the domino effect that leads to a family experiencing prolonged hardship. Many of you regularly support our work. Without this help, we simply would not be able to support those struggling. This Christmas, please support St. Joseph’s Conference Boyle’s Annual Appeal. Our collection will take place in St. Joseph’s Church on the weekend of December 11th/12th, where envelopes will be available in the porch. Envelopes received through the post may also be returned to the church. Alternatively, you can donate directly to the Boyle Conference at svp. ie/boyleannualappeal, or donate by phone to 0818176176.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

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Jack Horgan-Jones @JackHoJo Happy restrictmas everyone -There’s always one wise guy James Oh Brien @mrjamesob Having Christmas parties when they were not permitted & now not having Christmas parties when they are permitted

Student Enterprise Programme (SEP) National Enterprise Awards (NEA) • Showcase • Food Academy National Ploughing Championships • Local Enterprise Week (LEW) National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) •

WISHING BUSINESSES IN CO. ROSCOMMON A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A PROSPEROUS 2022

www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon E: localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ...

Anton Savage @AntonSavageShow Just when you think 2021 can’t get any odder, you wake to discover news of the bomb squad called out to assist a man attending Gloucestershire A+E with a WW2 artillery shell lodged in his fundament. And there’s still four weeks left. -We’ve heard of being shellshocked, but this is ridiculous…

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Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town. T: 090 6626263 / 090 6637100

Fergus Finlay @fergusfinlay The entire first half of the 9 o’clock news tonight - up to the break - was about the fact that it was really really windy in Ireland today. At 9.23 they devoted a minute to the possibility of an invasion of Ukraine. Thank goodness we’re maintaining perspective. -Man Gets Out Of Bed On Wrong Side

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ADVICE

perfectly sums up the ‘clarity & leadership’ provided by Downing Street throughout the pandemic. -Roll up! Roll up! The Boris Circus is still in town!

Danny Baker @prodnose I have not attended a march since shaping up with Rock Against Racism in the They Shall Not Pass protest in Lewisham 1977. But if there is a mass meeting against this government’s disgusting behaviour anytime soon, old as I am, I will be there. -The comedy writer/DJ/ broadcaster seems to have had quite enough of Boris & Co…

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE SOCIETY Notice is hereby given that the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the above-named Society will be held at the Society’s Registered Offices, Circular Road Roscommon on Wednesday 29th December 2021 at 8 p.m.

Ruth Medjber @ruthlessimagery I’ve woken up to an inbox full of cancellations. It feels like March 2020 again. Our industry being sacrificed without much thought when so much else could be done. -Ruth on realities for the hospitality industry… Seamus O’Rourke @seamus_orourke Would they ever put midnight mass back to midnight (in light of no other craic) -Seamus with a very radical proposal!

ROSCOMMON CO-OPERATIVE LIVESTOCK MARTS LTD Circular Road, Roscommon.

AGENDA 1. Minutes 2. Chairman’s Report 3. Adoption of Accounts & Auditors Report 4. Appointment of Auditor 5. Declaration of Election Results 6. Declaration of Dividend (if any) 7. Any other Business incidental to the Meeting. By order of the Board: Maura Quigley-Secretary

Anton Savage

Roscommon Drama Festival 2022 The Roscommon Drama Festival is set to make a welcome return to the Arts Centre next year. It will run from Friday, March 4th, until Saturday, March 12th. This festival, which showcases the very best in Irish amateur drama, has become synonymous with sell-out crowds, top-quality Drama and entertainment of the highest quality. The adjudicator of the Festival is Geoff O’Keeffe, a theatre director and actor as well as a drama adjudicator, who has worked extensively on the Irish circuit. Drama groups from all over Ireland will be participating as they attempt to make it to the All-Ireland Drama Finals. We are promised nine great nights of dramatic entertainment. Tickets are on sale from December 2nd at a cost of €95 (all nights), €60 (any five nights), or €15/€13 (individual nights). The festival is supported by Roscommon Leader Partnership.

St Coman’s Church of Ireland Carol Service

Danny Baker

St. Coman’s Church of Ireland on Henry Street in Roscommon town will play host to a Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas on Sunday, December 12th at 7 pm. Please observe current Covid-19 guidelines.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Italian man ‘chances his arm’ with vaccine Our man Frank on the lengths an Italian man went to in order to obtain a ‘Green Pass’, Michael’s book of hope for Haitian orphanage, living with the currrent restrictions, and golfing pigs in Yorkshire… Covid has thrown up challenges to many people over the last eighteen months or so, and we’ve gotten used to a lot of new elements in dealing with the virus. For most of us here in Ireland (despite the

Michael’s book in aid of Haitian orphanage

different strains of Covid that have kept on coming), the vaccinations and the booster vax have given us a certain degree of confidence in our ability to deal with whatever new challenges may come our way. Obviously there are people out there who do not believe in being vaccinated, and to some degree that is their right – though in my opinion, not if they are putting other lives at risk. However, very few of them will have gone to the lengths that an Italian man went to last week to escape actually having the jab. As we know, Italy was hit very hard in the early weeks and months of the pandemic, but now, with

I told you last week that I had plans in place to put up the Christmas tree. Like all plans, things didn’t work out just right and there was a delay of a couple of days, but as I write this on Tuesday afternoon, the tree is done! The tree is up, all the baubles and lights are in their place, and Christmas of 2021 is on the way. All the Christmas songs are now in full swing, and everywhere around we hear The Pogues with their Fairytale of New York, George Michael, Slade, and all the other artists who have had massive Christmas hits down through the years. One of my all-time favourites is David Essex’s ‘A Winter’s Tale’. As I listened to the words of that song – “Why would the world take notice” – I thought for some reason of all the people in the Third World who have nothing at all to look forward to except poverty, sickness, and exploitation. Then I thought of people like Michael Nolan from Ballygar, who actually do something to help those who are in desperate need. Michael has been out to the terribly unfortunate island of Haiti, where everything from earthquakes to rioting, gang violence, kidnappings, and extreme poverty have made life almost intolerable. Huge numbers of children are being orphaned and abandoned, and he has actually physically helped out in Our Little Brothers and Sisters Orphanage for weeks at a time. He also found time to write and publish a book, ‘Memories of Haiti and other stories’, the proceeds of which all go towards the upkeep of the orphanage. He has asked me to remind you all that the book is available in many shops in both Galway and Roscommon, and also from Michael himself at Tully, Ballygar, Co. Galway, F42 WR88. The cost is €5 or €7 by post. So this Christmas, let the world take notice, and maybe life could be made that bit better for all those who really have nothing to look forward to.

85 per cent of the population vaccinated, the country as a whole is faring better than most of its neighbours. After being heavily criticised early on for their lack of action, recently they have been making every effort to keep the country as safe as possible. As of last August, anyone who wishes to eat indoors, in a restaurant, go to cinemas, theatres, museums, or to sporting events, must carry a ‘Green Pass’ to show they are vaccinated, have a negative test, or have recently recovered from Covid-19. However, as of Monday, December 6th, the negative test no longer counts. Only proof of vaccination or proof of recovery

from the virus will allow a person to do all these things in the immediate future, and the Green Pass is being replaced by a Super Green Pass. Up in Biella in the northwest of the country, a gentleman in his fifties – who obviously liked dining out, his trips to cultural events, and going to the odd sporting event – came up with a way to avoid the jab, but nonetheless, still get himself a Green Pass. When he arrived at the vaccination centre, he presented the health workers with a fake arm, which unsurprisingly, was spotted by the alert staff. Where he hid his real arm during all this I’m not sure…or did he tell them he had an extra one? Either

way, he failed to get through, and was reported to the local police. A spokesman for the regional government said: “This case would border on the ridiculous if it were not for the fact we are talking about a gesture of enormous gravity in view of the huge sacrifice the entire community has paid during the pandemic in terms of lives lost, and the social and economic cost”. What punishment the faker will get has yet to be decided, but you have to admire the lengths he went to in order to avoid having the jab. I still can’t figure out how he thought he’d get away with it, but you have to admit that this was one man who was really chancing his arm!

Finally for this week…

Time to live with Covid … while adhering to guidelines You probably know by now that I like to have an odd quiet pint, but since the arrival of Covid, you could count the number of times I’ve been out on one hand…well, maybe on my two hands – unlike the fellow in Italy, there’s definitely no need for a third one! The sad thing is that every time I ventured into a pub, I would always feel guilty and wonder was I doing the right thing. The truth is that Covid has taken away the enjoyment out of practically

every possible social activity. I am doubly vaccinated, have got the booster jab, and I have now decided that I am going to live with the virus, as there seems little doubt that it is here to stay. As such, I will obey the rules whatever they are, but if stuff is given the Ok by NPHET and the Government, then taking all precautions necessary, I will try to live the rest of my life as well as I can. And so, last Saturday night, I ven-

tured back to the village, sat on a high stool, kept my distance from those around me, and enjoyed a few delicious pints of Guinness. I followed all the rules, and hadn’t the slightest guilty feeling about my return to social life. It’s here to stay, whether we like it or not, so let’s try to live alongside it. As long as it’s allowed, I will have a few quiet pints over the Christmas, and if you keep your distance, you can come too!

You would think that golf is a pretty safe sport – apart from the risk of being hit by a stray golf ball there usually isn’t much to worry about. In fact, in all my years on various golf courses, I have never suffered from anything other than sore muscles and occasionally a bruised ego. However, last week over in Lightcliffe Golf Club in Yorkshire, two large pigs stormed one of the greens and knocked over a couple of golf bags, injuring one poor golfer on the leg. That was on the Sunday, and having been declared the winners of that day’s competition, the pigs returned again on Tuesday for another round. This time they injured a green keeper who tried to remove them from the course as they hadn’t paid their membership and they disliked his attitude. Sadly the police later arrested the pair of pigs and it seems as if their golfing days are over. They are due to appear in front of the golf club committee to plead their case, and (excuse the awful pun) to try and save their bacon! ‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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Lisa Lyons launches new streetwear brand! Advertorial

Roscommon designer Lisa Lyons, Bracknagh, Ballymurry has recently launched a new streetwear brand called ‘Lyoness’, a premium line of luxury athletic wear for women which is inspired by vintage sports and vintage fashion. The 27-year-old former Convent of Mercy student attended the Roscommon School of Art and has studied Textile Surface Design at the National College of Art & Design, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree. She has also studied at the Dublin Institute of Design where she earned a diploma in Fashion Buying. Currently working full-time in the Fashion Buying industry, Lisa told the Roscommon People that she was thrilled to be launching her very own line of fashion. “I’m so happy to finally launch my very own clothing brand called ‘Lyoness’. This is something that I’ve been working on for nearly two years now in my spare time. I built and designed this brand

from start to finish,” she said. “Having studied Fashion Textile Design and Fashion Buying in college I always knew I wanted to have my own brand one day. “I picked the name ‘Lyoness’ after my second name because I wanted it to mean something to me. “The logo represents a Lion’s head, and this was created using geometric lines – I wanted to create a subtle abstract logo that represents the fearless energy, confidence and passion, which the Lyoness brand represents. “Lyoness is a women’s premium streetwear brand that

focuses on ‘Luxury Athleisure’ for an everyday active lifestyle. My first collection called “Fear Less, Dominate More” launched on Saturday last and consists of sweatshirts, sweatpants and beanies. “To celebrate the launch of Lyoness, I’m running a really exciting competition over on our Instagram page @lyoness_ official_, the winner will receive a full Lyoness cream tracksuit. There’s still lots of time to enter!” For more information or to follow Lisa’s new start-up fashion brand, see lyonessofficial.com or follow on Instagram @lyoness_official_ or Facebook: @lyonessofficial

“Luxury athleisure, designed to make you feel fearless”

LYONESSOFFICIAL.COM

Roscommon designer Lisa Lyons www.lyonessofficial.com

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Time for this Covid culture war to come to an end! At the time of writing, our country had confirmed one case of the new Omicron variant of Covid-19, which according to a study from South Africa, has ‘a substantial’ ability to cause reinfection ‘in people who have previously’ had the virus. What the study didn’t say however, was how this variant would behave when spread in a highly vaccinated population such as ours. Nor did it say if it can break through the barriers provided by the protection currently being offered by our vaccines. Despite this (thankfully), people, desperate for some level of protection, are flocking to vaccination centres to avail of either their first/second jab, or to seek a booster. Myself and himself feel extremely grateful and relieved to have been offered our boosters last week, and I’d like to say thank you to Dr. Barry

Cosgrove and staff at the Boyle Primary Care Centre for giving us the opportunity to add this extra layer of protection. Given there have been complaints from around the country regarding people left queuing in the cold for hours to get a jab, I must say your appointment system works both efficiently and effectively. We were given a timeslot, to which we arrived five minutes early, and were checked in at the clinic’s clearly marked window. We were then directed to another clearly marked entrance, where we signed in, filled in a short questionnaire, got vaccinated, retreated to a waiting area for fifteen minutes’ observation, and went home. Structured, professional, friendly, and methodical. Well done to all! In the wake of this more contagious variant, fears are being

expressed that hospitals will become overwhelmed. Therefore, I’d like to address the ‘proudly unvaccinated’ and tell them the time has now come for this childish Covid culture war to end. Why? Because you’re losing! If the results of a nationwide Kantar opinion poll are anything to go by, it appears that ‘a comfortable majority believe the Covid-19 unvaccinated should face greater movement restrictions’. To that end, it’d be really helpful if you and your posse of cheerleading conspiracy theorists could back off, stop spewing your misinformation, and find your way to a vaccination centre! I’m hoping the person who stopped me last week, cigarette dangling from their lips and hands waving dramatically in the air for effect, insisting through a series of wheezes and rasps that their ‘strong immune

system’ is ‘protecting’ them from the virus, gets themselves some protection. I should probably apologise for rudely laughing while you loudly bellowed your unsupported and misinformed ‘anti-vax’ propaganda, while simultaneously wagging your nicotine-stained finger at me. But I won’t! Criticising personal freedom doesn’t sit well with me whatsoever, because I believe we all have autonomy over our own minds and bodies. However, my patience is wearing thin with the anti-vaxxers, anti-maskers, and Covid-deniers. Why? I may be going out on a limb here, but I believe they’re being selfish. They don’t care about how their behaviour is impacting on everyone else’s quality of life. I didn’t want to get two vaccines or a booster, yet, to protect myself and my loved-ones, I did. I hate wearing

The most insidious forms of domestic violence are those that can’t be seen!

24hr National Freephone Helpline

1800 341 900

In a bid to raise awareness of intimate relationship abuse, Women’s Aid have been running their ‘Too Into You’ campaign, aimed at young women aged between 18-25 years. Running in conjunction with the annual 16 Days of Action opposing violence against women, the campaign places a focus on helping the 50 per cent of young people who are ‘not aware of specialist supports (available) for intimate relationship abuse’. This is very sad for the simple reason that it means many young people may be suffering in silence. We all know that the most insidious, most prevalent forms of violence are those that can’t be seen, and due to the Covid-imposed restrictions around Christmas, leading to us having to curb our activities, conditions in homes/relationships affected by domestic abuse will not just worsen – in many situations they’ll become intolerable. Behind all of these ‘situations’ are the bruised and battered faces and bodies of our fellow human beings. While these human beings may not be our sisters, our daughters or our mothers etc., they are someone else’s family members. These are the women and children in our communities who, when they reach out to us, will not just need our help and our support to escape their private hell, they’ll also need to receive specialist survivor-centred care, understanding and compassion!

Many victims of domestic violence don’t always identify the signs straight away themselves. Remember, emotional, psychological, sexual and physical abuse is never the victim’s fault. Therefore, to those who may be feeling vulnerable and unsure of their personal situation, let me outline below what I believe to be just a few of the lesser recognised tactics of a malicious abuser. If any of them are happening to you, please don’t be afraid to reach out and seek help. If your partner insists on going everywhere with you, using the excuse they “love you so much they can’t bear to be without you”. The truth? What they ‘love’ is the power to dominate and isolate you from everyone else, making you reliant only on them. If they ‘gaslight’ you, making you question your own reality and in short, try to confuse you, making you question your own thoughts and your own mental health. They may even accuse you of reacting out of proportion to what is (they’ll insist), otherwise normal circumstances. Following an attack, whether emotional, physical or sexual, an abuser may also attempt to ‘love bomb’ you by buying you an expensive gift, making dramatic promises to never ‘lash out’ again! It’s a lie! If you need help, please contact the Women’s Aid 24-hour national helpline today on 1800341900 or in an emergency do not hesitate to dial 999!

a mask, but because of the antivaxxers, I still am! Let me be clear – I am not targeting those who are medically unable to get vaccinated. My heart goes out to you. Our entire country, at every level, and in every occupation, is facing a set of health and economic challenges, yet the majority of us who bit the bullet and got vaccinated and ‘booster-ed up’, are still quite literally living like sitting ducks. Why? Because sadly, despite this virus being with us nearly two years now, the anti-vax sentiment among many remains strong! From conversations I’ve had with certain ‘deniers’ and ‘anti-vaxers’, it’s clear to me they fall into one of two categories. A, they’re deluded narcissists, believing they’ve got a higher level of critical thinking than the scientists, or B, they’re extremely selfish!

Delusional much Harry? Over-privileged prat…sorry Prince! Harry that is. The spoiled royal-turned-lifecoach has advised anyone ‘stuck in jobs that don’t bring them joy’ to resign! This stinking-rich, publicity-seeking junkie who’s slumming it (not!) in a $12 million mansion, paid for by his $50 million Netflix deal and his role as ‘chief impact officer’ with US start-up BetterUp, must surely be suffering from a serious dose of let-them-eat-cake-ism! Perhaps if I’d inherited a trust fund as severance pay when I quit my roles at granny’s ‘firm’, I too could place a focus on finding a job that ‘brings me joy’. Until then, I’ll stick with the one that brings me food, electricity, heat, the ability to pay my rent, and my vet’s bills etc.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

GOING OUT

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

Laura O’Hara and Jack Morgan pictured in Creaton’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Matthew Towey and Mark Kilgannon pictured in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Mary Claire Morgan, Tom Morgan, Jennifer Ryan, Thomas and Michelle Morgan, Will Cammack and Bertie Cox pictured in Creaton’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Tom Haran, Mary McDermott and Ann Solan pictured in Solan’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Thomas, Patricia and Anna Creaton, John O’Grady, John and Breege Naughton pictured in Creaton’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Phil Robson, Christine Tobin and Steve Hamilton pictured in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Paul O’Grady, Mary Claire Morgan, Anna Creaton, Colman Lynch Snr, and Thomas Creaton pictured in Creaton’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

James and Tina Tully pictured in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Christopher Dunne, Daniel Morgan and Noel Deery pictured in Creaton’s Pub, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Jim Corry and Johnny Towey performing pictured in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Matthew, Sarah, Don and Marie McDonagh pictured in Spells Bar, Ballaghaderreen. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

CIARAN MULLOOLY On The Back Benches

Tourism projects offering new hope for BnM communities – but will they deliver? I am studying for a postgraduate diploma in the field of tourism at the moment and decided recently to try and analyse the scale of investment going on, not just here in Roscommon, but specifically in the rather beautiful twin towns of Lanesboro and Ballyleague on the Shannon. Despite a multi-million euro investment in all sorts of projects in the area in recent times, half the people in the town, or indeed perhaps even more, have no idea what is actually going on in terms of the future development of the place and how it may well look by the time their sons and daughters have grown up, taken control of its destiny and settled down – if they can there – with their own families in the years to come. Behind the scenes now for nearly five years, there has been an absolutely incredible amount of economic planning and activity underway in this community which has undoubtedly suffered with the demise of peat harvesting and the closure of the local power station. Some of this is coordinated between different agencies and bodies, county councils and third parties, but there is an awful lot going on at the moment and last week the ESB held its first online consultation with the people of the town to discuss their own plans for the future of the area. With a decision apparently made to demolish the old power stations, the ESB has started the process to seek strategic infrastructure status with An Bord Pleanála so that they can speed up the planning process and try to get on and build a new battery energy storage system (BESS) and synchronous condenser at both of the old sites in Lanesboro and Shannonbridge. These developments have huge implications for the local area. I presume it’s the same premise as the battery storage system already operated privately in Shannonbridge where the batteries are charged while the wind is blowing and then feed into the national grid when the turbines have stopped turning. It is not clear how many actual jobs they will create when they are up and running but decisions on the planning for these applications are due by April 1st. Returning to the tourism theme, I have decided to outline as much as I can here in this column over the next two weeks to explain to people what is going on behind the scenes and the potential for change that is coming. Last week Minister Heather Humphries kick-started the newest chapter when she announced details of the latest allocation of €200,000 for a major project on the west bank of the river in Ballyleague. Sometimes when these announcements or briefings are being made public, only

The magnificent River Shannon in picturesque BallyleagueLanesboro.

a few lines of general description comes with them in the newspaper or on a website and most people have no clue at all where the project actually is located or what is entailed until the planning process arrives much later. But, at a time when people in that area need some reassurance about the future viability of the town, I felt it might be a good idea to flesh out each of them here and list every plan and proposal that has actually been launched for the town in recent times and let people see for themselves how they fit into the big picture unfolding. Let’s start with that move when Heather Humphreys announced that Ballyleague would receive €200,000 to help to develop a high quality visitor destination amenity on the River Shannon. The plan was drawn up by Roscommon County Council after consultation with the village renewal

Bressie (Niall Breslin) pictured at the new outdoor amphitheater in Kilkenny. A similar development is planned for Ballyleague-Lanesboro.

committee in Ballyleague and the people behind the Lough Ree Access for All centre. It is really all about linking up these key sites on the same trail along the river front where a fantastic promenade was put in during the first ten years of this new millennium. It’s the type of shiny new development one often sees nowadays around the country in tourism towns like Westport and will really enhance the experience for people getting off the boats or just visiting the area for fishing or boating. I live just a stone’s throw from the site and I know the amount of people who already walk that promenade from 6 am in the morning to 11 pm at night so I can really imagine the boost this terrific new destination project is going to bring to the area. On top of this move there’s an even bigger project already in the planning directly across the river on the eastern shore of the Shannon in Lanesboro. The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) is behind this one and the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) has already approved funding of some €468,700 for a project on the enhancement of the attractiveness of Lanesboro as a tourism destination – so between the two developments on the tourism destination theme, this really is ‘joined up thinking’ of the highest quality. I understand this money is being spent on the progressing of a really exciting visitor centre project to be developed in the area best known locally as the 1st and 2nd quarries which are located at the bottom of the car park near the old harbour on the duck pond side of the Shannon. The

In association with: LOUGH REE ACCESS FOR ALL

money is being spent on preparing planning drawings and environmental assessments for the development of the centre there in a bid to attract greater tourism to the area. It’s a lot of money for just plans and designs, but (in brief) I believe the islands of Lough Ree will be a key feature of the actual visitor centre if and when they build it and we already know that an outdoor theatre area – similar to the one pictured on this page in the Kilkenny area – is part of the great plan for that area. On top of these developments there are a plethora of ongoing Just Transition Fund (JTF) projects underway in the general Ballyleague-Lanesboro area. The cash for these is coming from the fund set up by the Government to try and re-start local economies after the loss of jobs in Bord na Mona and ESB. A lot of them are tied into ongoing feasibility study work on infrastructure – tourism-related and otherwise – and it is to be hoped that, when they are finished, real economic development will follow on with new jobs in the areas. I am going to brief readers about just one more of these projects this week and another five in next week’s column. Longford County Council are at the top of the list exploring options for the establishment of a tourism hub in Lanesboro, which is supposed to drive a suite of projects to build on the tourism infrastructure already in the area and make Lanesboro/Ballyleague a more attractive tourism location in line with the offering of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. This project has been allocated €212,500 by the Just Transition Fund and is believed to include measures like exploring the installation of a brand new business ‘relief’ road at the back of the main street that would free up traffic in the town a bit more for tourists and visitors. Appointment of consultants to carry out a scoping document was done a long time ago and the appointment of consultants to carry out a feasibility study and come up with a preferred project identification of a sustainable tourism project was supposed to be done last summer. According to the JTF website, the preliminary design and environmental assessments are supposed to commence in the second quarter of 2022, so let’s see what comes out of it. Next week we will look at the exciting plans for a new transport museum near Cloontuskert, a new boardwalk in Ballyleague, and the first just transition fund project which is already creating jobs in the area.

WRITE TO CIARAN!

Email People Columnist Ciaran at ciaranmullooly@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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Lisa’s moment of tooth! Cuddys book semi-final spot with show of grit < DAN DOONER

The Cuddy family from Roscommon staged a remarkable comeback to book their place in the Ireland’s Fittest Family semifinals with a show of true grit last Sunday. Reeling from a disappointing performance in the ‘Pontoons of Pain’ challenge, the Cuddys, featuring mum Bernie, her son James and daughters Lisa and Emma, were forced to ‘Hang Tough’ to extend their stay on the hit RTÉ show. The first event had started well for the Roscommon family but took a turn when Lisa Cuddy chipped her two front teeth when attempting to

cross a balance beam. Lisa said it was a worrying moment for the family: “Sometimes the unexpected can happen…normally my balance would be quite good but the nerves seemed to get to me for that event. We are really good at team events but I just felt a bit outnumbered standing alone on the balance beam,” she said. “I was fairly battered and bruised afterwards but I was lucky I was wearing Invisalign otherwise I would have lost my two front teeth! “Nothing was going to be enough for me after ‘Pontoons of Pain’ and I felt I had an awful lot of making up to do,” she said. The Cuddys were fac-

ing the dreaded Eliminator ahead of their second event, ‘Hang Tough’, but Lisa showed remarkable resilience to hang on for over three minutes and pull her family through to this Sunday’s semi-finals. “I was actually disappointed after ‘Hang Tough’…I wanted to get to four minutes! “I wasn’t too happy with it but thankfully it worked out. We had to move on quickly after the first event and we were delighted to make the semi-finals,” she said. Asked what was going through her head as she dangled from a crane high above the Fittest Family set, Lisa said: “Not much to be honest! ‘Take A

Chance On Me’ by Abba was actually playing in my head…I was trying my best to keep it chill!” The Cuddys will once again have the whole county behind them this Sunday as they look to book their place in the finals of Ireland’s Fittest Family on RTÉ One at 6.30 pm.

The Cuddy family from Roscommon are through to Sunday’s Ireland’s Fittest Family semifinals on RTÉ

LET’S STEP UP TOGETHER For us 2,000 steps is a walk, a hike, a stroll. But for many in the developing world it takes thousands of steps to simply get water, get to school or even reach a hospital.

Lisa Cuddy was forced to ‘Hang Tough’ on last Sunday’s episode of RTÉ’s Ireland’s Fittest Family.

Roscommon prisoners were released 100 years ago today 100 years ago today (9th of December), prisoners were released – many of them from Co. Roscommon – following the historic signing of the AngloIrish Treaty, the centenary of which is being commemorated this week. Noting the milestone, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice said that there were a number of Castlerea men amongst the prisoners released from Ballykinlar internment camp in Co. Down on the 9th of December 1921. The prisoners were brought on special trains to Dublin before making their way home from there. They included Cllr. Fitzmaurice’s grandfather, Jack Cassidy, 17-years-old at the time. Jack was a son of ‘Nurse Cassidy’ of Main Street, Castlerea. Another well-known prisoner was Michael O’Doherty from Henry Street in Roscommon Town. Cllr. Fitzmaurice: “I just feel it is important in this historic week that we re-

member these men and their loved ones. The signing of The Treaty was a very big part of Irish history. It was a very significant time and I think it’s appropriate to acknowledge the role of so many Roscommon people and the significance of this particular date in relation to the historic release of those prisoners as part of the agreement”. (Right) Jack Cassidy (one of the prisoners), grandfather of Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice.

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Irish Republican prisoners in Ballykinlar Camp…they were released 100 years ago today.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous birthdays ... this week

Bill Nighy (English actor, turns 72 on Sunday)

Hailee Steinfeld (American actress and singer, turns 25 on Saturday)

Raven-Symoné (American actress and singersongwriter, turns 36 on Friday)

Judi Dench (English actress, turns 87 on Thursday)

For updates, check our social channels

It’s been a GOOD week for…

Pictured at the switching on of the Ballaghaderreen Christmas Lights last weekend. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon Drama Group return to Arts Centre stage Roscommon Arts Centre and Roscommon Drama Group spent the summer months working on a project called ‘Playing On The Radio’, which brought members of the drama group together with well-known Roscommon actor Enda Oates. The group worked with IFTA winning actor Enda, who plays Pete Ferguson in RTE’s Fair City, both virtually and in person at Roscommon Arts Centre on two new productions – JM Synge’s ‘The Tinker’s Wedding’ and Lady Gregory’s ‘Spreading the News’ – which will now be performed live as a “staged reading” at the Arts Centre this Sunday, December 12th, before being broadcast next year. The Tinker’s Wedding tells the story of Sarah Casey, a young tinker woman and the beauty

of Ballinacree, who makes a bid for respectability by marrying with Michael Byrne, father of her children and companion on the roads for many years. She attempts to inveigle the local priest to marry them but things don’t quiet go to plan. Tom Holian, Con Connolly, Mary Cox and Marie Conroy star in this performance. Spreading the News is a short one-act comic play by Lady Gregory, which she wrote for the opening night of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, December 27th, 1904. This one-act comedy of rumour and misinterpretation is set in a small town in rural Ireland where gossip is prevalent and stars Tom Holian, Dermot Cox, Con Connolly, Mary Cox, Kevin Woods, Steve Gregory, Marie Conroy, Margaret Madden, Majella

Flanagan, Aidan Flanagan and Leo Walsh. Enda Oates’s theatre, film and television career spans over twenty years. From his role of Reverend George Black in Glenroe to appearances in films like Veronica Guerin, The Secret Scripture, and stage roles in Juno And The Paycock in The Gate Theatre and Big Maggie at The Abbey, Enda is no stranger to audiences and Roscommon Arts Centre is delighted to work with Enda on this project. Playing on The Radio is a Creative Ireland Project in association with Roscommon Drama Group. Staged readings will take place this Sunday, December, 12th at 8 pm. Tickets are €15 and are on sale now from the arts centre on 090-6625824 or at roscommonartscentre.ie.

St Faithleach’s, with the Roscommon Intermediate football champions defeating St Farnan’s in extratime to qualify for the Connacht Intermediate Football Final Late Late Toy Show star Pádraig (Paudie) O’Callaghan, with the Limerick boy getting the opportunity to interview Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar in Government Buildings Cristiano Ronaldo, with the veteran superstar becoming the all-time highest scorer in men’s football after netting career goals 800 and 801 in Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal

It’s been a BAD week for… Parts of the country, in terms of countryside, houses, buildings, etc., with power outages, damage to properties and vehicles, after Storm Barra bared its teeth… Sections of the hospitality/entertainment industries, with renewed restrictions involving the closure of nightclubs until January 9th and the halving of capacity numbers in other venues UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, on the back foot over claims that a Christmas Party which is likely to have been a breach of Covid-19 restrictions was held in 10 Downing Street last year, this controversy competing for media attention with reports that French President Emmanuel Macron recently branded Johnson a ‘clown’ and a ‘knucklehead’…

Pictured at the Innovation in Politics Awards in Brussels on Thursday were Sheila Reilly (Steering Group Committee, See Her Elected), Mairead O’Shea (Communications Consultant, See Her Elected), Tara Farrell (CEO of Longford Women’s Link), Joan O’Flynn (Ireland Representative of the Innovation in Politics Institute), Michelle Maher (See Her Elected Programme Manager), Peter Burke (Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage), and Helfried Carl (Founder and Managing Partner at the Innovation in Politics Institute). Pic: Innovation in Politics Institute/Elias Pargan

See Her Elected crowned winners at Innovation in Politics Awards On Thursday night, December 2nd, See Her Elected (SHE) were crowned winners of the 2021 Innovation in Politics Award in the Democracy category at the

Innovation in Politics Awards in Brussels. It is the first time Ireland has won this prestigious award. SHE is a feminist, community-led, rural

initiative to support women into politics in the Midlands and NorthWest. For more information on SHE, visit seeherelected. ie.

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THIS WEEK...On The Political Beat This week, local public representatives raised concerns over Brexit funding, welcomed capital funding for social enterprises and schools, as well as extra staffing for Roscommon County Council’s Housing Department…

Brexit funding exposes ‘warped priorities’

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane says the allocation of €70 million from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to meat processors is “illustrative of where farmers stand in this Government’s warped priorities”. Deputy Kerrane was speaking following confirmation of funding under the Capital Investment Scheme for the Processing and Marketing of Agricultural Products, which was initially announced last December. “For months, I have been seeking information from the Department of Public Expenditure as to how this fund is to be allocated, to no avail. Yet, meat processors have confirmation that they will receive significant BAR funds, while our farmers have no idea what, if any, supports will be available to them. “Bizarrely, the reported rationale is that Brexit has yet to impact on beef prices. The basis of the funding to processors is to allow them diversify – by the same logic it would be entirely appropriate to support our suckler farmers, or indeed fishermen. “This ludicrous situation is compounded by the fact that these funds appear to have been provided to processors without any conditionality. It is unthinkable that this government would provide any funds to farmers or fishermen on such terms. “The government decision to allocate substantial funding from the reserve to processors before farmers sends a message that will be heard across every family farm,” the Sinn Féin TD concluded.

Feighan welcomes extra Housing staff

Local Minister of State Frank Feighan has welcomed the Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien’s recent announcement that 200 new posts will be allocated for local authority housing teams across the country. The announcement has seen six such posts approved for the Housing Department at Roscommon County Council under the Government’s ‘Housing For All’ programme. “With the approval of these new posts, we are ensuring that our local authorities in this constituency have the capacity to deliver the scale of social housing delivery required,” Deputy Feighan stated. “It is vital that our local authorities are well resourced to deal with the high demand for social housing and I want to thank Minister O’Brien for providing the funding for this initiative”.

€822k for schools across Roscommon

Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan says the allocation of €821,386 for 88 primary schools and nine post-primary schools across County Roscommon means more inclusion and equality of access to digital services. Welcoming the news this week, Senator Dolan said: “This funding of over €820,000 for schools in County Roscommon means more inclusion and equality of access to digital devices. Teachers can develop their school’s digital learning plans, schools could

Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien visited the county recently to open three new housing developments at Douglas Drive and Cluain Fraoigh in Roscommon town and Meadowbrook in Ballyleague.

provide more access through loan schemes to support families and these funds will also drive students innovation and creativity. “The world is moving at such speed and we need our students to be able to engage with technology and to have the supports in place so no-one is left behind. Digital transformation is really gathering pace especially since the Covid-19 lockdown when teaching staff, students and parents adapted to teaching and learning online. We also know that children without devices did not have the same learning opportunities”.

Murphy welcomes funding for local social enterprises

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has welcomed what he describes as “substantial funding” for social enterprises in the Roscommon area. Speaking this week, Senator Murphy said the funding will assist local groups in carrying out repairs and renovations to their premises while allowing for the purchase of items such as canopies, playground and kitchen equipment, and devices such as iPads and laptops. “The beneficiaries of this funding are key local service providers that have a hugely positive impact in their local communities. These include Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre which will receive €3,500 for refurbishment work, Lough Ree Access for All CLG which will receive €7,000 for the repair of their tourist boat, and the Una Bhan Tourism Cooperative will be supported to carry out building repairs with a grant of €2,442,” Murphy said. “In addition, the Roscommon Women’s Network will receive €7,000 towards a workshop and training room. Cloontuskert Development and Tidy Towns Association will be supported in developing a community allotment with €2,850, and The Melting Pot Community Society will receive €2,404 towards equipment and food transportation”.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021 ADVERTISEMENT

Another path to world peace “Mary is Queen of the Universe” On Saturday afternoon, November 27th 1830, while sister Catherine Labouré was at meditation with the other religious sisters in the chapel at Rue De Bac in Paris, she heard the same sound she’d heard on the wonderful night of July 18th 1830, the eve of the feast day of St Vincent De Paul – the rustle of silk. There, standing close to a picture of St Joseph upon a shining globe was the Blessed Virgin Mary! How beautiful she was! Even more beautiful than on her first visit! Her simple flowing dress resembled the colour of the sky at dawn – a radiant white, shot through with shimmering gold. A white veil covered her head, falling gracefully to her feet, and in her hands she held a small gold ball, surmounted with a cross, which she pressed lovingly to her heart. Sister Labouré gazed in ecstasy at the marvellous sight, quite heedless of the other sisters around her. Then suddenly, she noticed that the Virgin’s fingers were glistening with numerous brilliant rings. The stones in these rings sent forth such dazzling rays that one could scarcely bear to look upon them. Indeed, they enveloped the blessed Virgin Mary in so much splendour that neither her feet nor her robe could be seen. And yet, some of these precious stones were not sending forth any rays… what did it mean? Sister Labouré did not even try to understand – it was enough that the Blessed Virgin Mary had come again, that she was standing only a few yards away, her eyes lifted to heaven with an expression of indescribable love. Then suddenly, she lowered her eyes and looked at Sister Labouré. Though her lips did not move, there was no mistaking the sound of her voice: “The globe which you see represents the world, especially France, and everyone in it. The rays are the symbol of the graces I shed on those who ask me for them.” Then, after a pause: “The stones which send forth no light represent the graces for which people forget to ask me.” Suddenly, the gold ball that the Blessed Virgin Mary was holding vanished. The Immaculate Conception medal apparition has since become known as the apparition of the miraculous medal that happened immediately after this, which I will relate to later. Time passed uneventfully. Then, on April 25th, 1865, when she was fifty-nine years old, a trial that she had been dreading for a long time overtook Sister Catherine. Fr Aladel, her trusted friend and confessor, fell ill and died. Now there was no one in the whole world to whom she could speak freely about Our Lady’s apparitions or the promotion of the miraculous medal, for she had been told by Our Lady herself some thirty-five years before to only discuss these matters with the one who had charge of her soul. In 1870, Sister Catherine’s heart was heavy. What a dreadful time it was, with so much suffering and bloodshed. Nor were matters improved in 1871, when a group of vicious men made a sudden attempt to overthrow the government and stamp out all religion. Once again Paris was under siege, and the streets of the city filled with the dead and the wounded. Priests and nuns were murdered in cold

blood, churches were desecrated, and one religious community after another was forced to close their doors. Catherine remembered Our lady’s words: “Come to the foot of the altar. There, graces will be showered upon you and all who ask for them, whatever their rank or position.” After the revolution was over in May 1871, a new anxiety was tugging at her heart. She had received another message from Heaven: “Our Lady wants a statue made.” The statue was to show her as she appeared on her second visit on November 27th, holding a golden globe in her hands with a little cross on top –representing the world and everyone in it to her heart – offering it to God and interceding for its sins. The statue was to be placed on the apparition site in Rue De Bac, Paris. By 1876, Sister Catherine Labouré was becoming anxious about getting the statue made, because she knew she would not live to see 1877. So, when at meditation one morning, she heard Our lady’s voice, giving permission to confide in her Mother Superior. How good it was for her to know that the responsibility for having the statue made would

no longer be hers alone. Sister Catherine related everything to her Mother Superior. She had not seen Our Lady since the apparitions in the chapel of the motherhouse, but she had heard her voice hundreds of times while at prayer. “You will see about the statue, Mother? That it’s made right away and put on an altar at the place of the apparitions? It’s so very important! And it’s caused so much worry!” Sister Catherine said the statue was to show her in another light, as constantly pleading for the world and begging God’s mercy upon every sinner in it. Then she began to describe how the statue should be made: “It ought to show Our Lady as of middle-age, smiling motherly, yet not too joyful. Her dress and veil should be golden white – something like the colour of the sky before dawn – and beneath her feet she should be crushing a green serpent with yellow spots. That’s the devil, Mother. Oh how he’s tried to keep me from having this statue made! “You see, he cant bear the idea of thousands of people coming to pray before it, of their

still having another way in which to think about the Blessed Virgin Mary.” Sister Catherine Labouré made many predictions that came true. She also confirmed the predictions of St Louis De Montfort about the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 1876 when she was seventy – the final year of her life on earth – St Catherine Labouré said the same thing that St Louis De Montfort had said throughout his lifetime (he lived between 1673 and 1716): “When the Blessed Virgin Mary is called, Mary is Queen of the universe. We will have peace, joy, and good fortune that will last long. Her image will be carried on banners and standards throughout the world and she will make a tour of the world. The children and everyone will proclaim everywhere: Mary is Queen of the Universe.” So, now it is time to propagate Mary is Queen of the Universe as another title for the Virgin of the Globe as she had been known since 1876/1877. It is now time for her to also be known as Mary is Queen of the Universe. It is time to fulfil St Catherine Labouré’s wish after 145 years, and St Louis De Montfort’s wish after 305 years to proclaim everywhere: Mary is Queen of the Universe. Please keep a copy in the family home and relay this on all social networks. We should all make world peace our goal and spread this message everywhere. Seeing that this article is going to print on Wednesday, December 8th, the feast day of the Immaculate Conception, I just wanted people to know what the Blessed Virgin Mary said to St Catherine Labouré on November 27th, 1830. St Catherine Labouré experienced the end of the second apparition as the gold ball vanished, and then the third apparition began. Mary stretched out her arms in a compassionate gesture, and from her fingers, rays of light fell upon the globe at her feet. An oval frame then formed around her, with golden lettering that read, “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us all who have recourse to thee.” She again heard the voice speaking: “Have a medal struck after this model. All who wear it will receive great graces. They should wear it around their neck. Graces will abound for those persons who wear it with confidence.” After St Catherine Labouré passed away on December 31st, 1876, word quickly spread about her being identified as the seer of the miraculous medal apparitions. Crowds converged on the motherhouse at Rue De Bac, Paris. St Catherine Labouré was buried in a vault beneath the chapel. Almost immediately, accounts of miracles at her tomb began to circulate following the healing of a paralysed boy who was lowered by ropes into the vault. By this time, it was estimated that more than one thousand million medals had been distributed worldwide. If schools, offices or anyone else would like to buy miraculous medals by post, they can contact Virgo Potens office, Daughters of Charity, 10 Henrietta Street, Dublin 1, D01VP11 (01 8583063). – Chris O’Gara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, Ireland. 086-22-55-029

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Castlerea

Castlerea: Looking forward to a busy Christmas and bright New Year! < DAN DOONER

Castlerea is shining brightly once again this year with the town’s Christmas Lights switched on at a virtual event on Friday last (3rd) and local businesses preparing for a busy festive period. Indeed, the town has been a hive of activity in recent months and local Councillor, Paschal Fitzmaurice, believes more good things are in store in 2022. “We would be encouraging people to support local shops again this Christmas and there is already a positive vibe in the town with the regeneration of build-

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice

ings and the lease and sale of formerly derelict buildings which means they are now occupied,” he said. “The town is busy with the local mart and businesses and I’d encourage shoppers to support the businesses on Main Street as they are the life and soul of Castlerea and first to support local groups”. There are two exciting projects in development for the town including the redevelopment of the green space at Somers Park and extra funding for the extremely successful outdoor swimming pool. “The development at Somers Park will feature an outdoor entertainment area and arts space and will allow outdoor theatre and concerts with a permanent dome,” Cllr. Fitzmaurice added. “I was also delighted to secure additional funding from Roscommon County Council for Castlerea Swimming Pool which was a huge success last

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com THURSDAY 9th DECEMBER:

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year with record crowds. “These are two major projects which is quite positive for the local community and both will progress rapidly in the

coming months,” he said. “Castlerea is a great town for families and children to visit with the 600-acre park, the swimming pool during the summer and

our fairy village. There is a great buzz around the town right now and we look forward to a busy Christmas and an exciting New Year,” he concluded.

Castlerea.ie wants your Christmas videos!

Castlerea.ie, the website putting Castlerea on the world stage, is calling on those at home and abroad this year to send Christmas greetings to friends and loved ones. Secretary of Castlerea Town Team, Susan Gaynor, says the initiative is already proving popular. “With Covid-19 and the fact

Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

that people were sitting at home alone we decided to invite people from the area to submit 30-second clips with greetings for loved ones and friends. The videos will be put together and we will be showing them on Christmas Eve,” Susan said. Castlerea.ie has grown in popularity over the past year with people from as far away as

the United States, Australia and the Middle East logging on to receive updates from home. “We started back in January with our weekly round-up which features birthday messages, and updates from the local community. The whole idea was to promote businesses in Castlerea so we give shout-outs and promote new businesses in

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the town,” Susan added. This Christmas, Castlerea Town Team is inviting you in wishing loved ones a Merry Christmas whether you’re home or away! Simply send your 30-second clip directly to Castlerea.ie, by email to castlereatownteam@gmail.com or by WhatsApp to Secretary Susan Gaynor on 086-0740421.

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Castlerea

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This year, they are looking for your help again in donating items such as selection boxes, packets of biscuits, pasta/rice, tinned foods, soft drinks, soups, tea and coffee

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Christmas comes early for local Lotto player! Christmas came early for one lucky Lotto player in Castlerea recently. While the biggest prize in Lotto history remained up for grabs following the draw on Wednesday, December 1st, a customer in Lidl Castlerea claimed €29,345 by matching five from the winning numbers 1, 8 14, 33, 38, 40 and the bonus ball 30. Winners are advised to sign the back of their tickets and contact the Lottery prize claims team on 1800-666222 or email claims@lottery.ie.

Enterprise Castlerea’s call: ‘Try Town First’ this Christmas!

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

If you would like to donate, please contact Martina on 086-1711394 or Aisling on 086-4615537. As always, your support is greatly appreciated.

Pictured at the Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea recently for the visit of Santa Claus. Pic: Mick McCormack

Christmas People Tell us a bit about yourself… I’m a working artist based in Castlerea in County Roscommon and I officially set up as a business in January 2020. This came after a long number of years of being creative. Lockdown is when it really took off with pet and personal portraits. I’m also studying art full-time in GMIT – so it’s all go! How will you be celebrating Christmas this year? (Laughs)...very quietly probably! Honestly, I’m looking forward to taking a break from work and assignments. One Christmas you’ll always remember? Any of the Christmasses I received art-related

with Ellen Susan Igoe

Some years ago, a County Cork town adopted the slogan ‘Try Town First’, in order to highlight the need to support local towns and now Castlerea Town Team is echoing the call to keep it local this Christmas! The slogan ‘Try Town First’ is even more appropriate in this current climate, where the cost of fuel is rocketing, local businesses are trying to recover from Covid-19 related closures, and we the consumers are being asked to curtail our interaction with others in order to get control of this virus. So shop local and support the businesses in your community this year!

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presents really. Years ago, my parents bought me an easel and I still have it all these years later! All I want for Christmas is… Apart from a bit of peace and quiet, I’m just hoping for some positive news or a bit of light that things will be better next year in terms of Covid-19. That and I hope everyone remains safe. Ellen Susan Igoe is a working artist based in Castlerea, who recently launched her new ‘Spideog’ collection of Christmas cards and poster prints, which feature an iconic image of a robin perched on a branch, in aid of Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

2016

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Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and Happy New Year

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Castlerea

Louise gives back with ‘Little Blessings Box’ < DAN DOONER

Sitting outside the home of Louise O’Sullivan and her two young daughters, Bella (2) and Lily (1), is a plastic box filled with all sorts of food, toiletries, colouring books and crayons, and even Elf cameras. Louise (22) calls it her ‘Little Blessings Box’ and it’s her way of repaying the kindness that she herself experienced when things weren’t quite so good. “I’m originally from Cas-

tlerea but left home when I was just 17-years-old,” Louise explains. “We lived in a run-down flat in Kilkelly…it was scary at times but I learned valuable life lessons from the experience”. Louise was pregnant with her eldest daughter at this time and life had become increasingly difficult, forcing her to rely on a local food bank. “There was a charity shop close to where we lived and there was a box left outside

it every Tuesday with food for those in need and we had to avail of it. I realise how lucky we are now but when we needed help it was there and so I want to offer something back,” she said. Louise, who reached out for help from her dad Jim, now lives in a beautiful home in Castlerea with her two daughters. “I was lucky enough that I could call my dad and he came straight away and took us out of that situation. He’s a rock and he showed noth-

ing but love through it all,” Louise said. Now, one year on, and in a much better place, Louise and her two girls are paying the kindness forward. “Our Little Blessings Box will be left just outside our front door on Patrick’s Street in Castlerea from 8 am to 7 pm each Tuesday. I didn’t think it would be noticed as much as it has been. I was shocked by the reaction. People have been amazing and all donations, including from local businesses are

always greatly appreciated,” she said. “The box will be there until the second Tuesday in January because I know that December and January are the hardest months for people. At least there will be something there for them until they can get back on their feet”. Louise says she’s delighted to be in a position to give something back and appealed to those in difficult situations to reach out and seek help this Christmas.

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Season of Goodwill: Louise O’Sullivan is repaying the kindness once shown to her by leaving a ‘Little Blessings Box’ outside her home in Castlerea.

Pictured at the Castlerea Christmas Market in The Hub last weekend. Pic: Mick McCormack

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Freshly cut, alllanterns sizes. from €12.99 SOMEAquariums, UNWELCOME table lamps and IdealIDEAL present for children. Lamps, Fishing Rods,GIFTS Rechargeable clocks at affordable FRESH mantle HOLLY Home AND CHRISTMAS Cured BaconpricesCHRISTMAS VISITORS? Peterson Pipes, Binoculars, etc. Maglites, Full selection of Blue Willow Delph. Aquariums, Fishing Rods, Rechargeable Lamps, WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO Sausages €1.99 Home Cured Bacon Rats and mice try our one dose bait Victorinox Knives, Led Lensor, Indur Ladies & CHRISTMAS TREES Epsom Salts for feet or baths Peterson Pipes, Binoculars, etc. Maglites, BLUESTONE FOR SOOT IN RANGES Olde Time Rings of€1.99 Black Pudding Rat Traps, Mouse Traps. Mink Traps, Purse Sausages Gents Wallets, Old Moores Almanac, 100% Cotton Victorinox Knives, Led Lensor, Indur Ladies & Nets, Goose Grease, Sulpher Freshly cut, all sizes. holly and (€1.99 per pound). AND CHIMNEYS NOW IN Fresh STOCK Whole Caraways, Cloves, Olde Time Rings ofWhole Black Pudding Shirts only €14.99, Pajamas, Tights buy 2 get 1

Pictured waiting for Santa Claus at the Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea last weekend. Pic: Mick McCormack

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year from Benny, Madeline and staff

Bennys deli Home Bakery, Delicatessen & Restaurant

Main Street, Castlerea

t. (094) 96 20575 bennysdeli.com facebook.com/bennysdeli

@Bennysdeli

Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year from

Mick’s Motors

Barrack Street, Castlerea

T: 094 96 20987 M: 083 8478531

All repairs and servicing carried out

Gents Wallets, Oldfirelogs Moores(4Almanac, 100% Cotton Centre Tickets Fresh Duck and available. Hen Farm Eggs Recycling Christmas wreaths Briquettes, forprices. €5) and coal. free watches at reasonable Fiddles Whole Caraways, Whole Cloves, Shirts only Pajamas, Tights buy 2 get 1 25kg Gritting Salt€14.99, Lotto (Violins) Half,Tubes, Three Quarterprices. & Full size.kits in Also Bluestone forDuck soot in ranges chimneys tyres, pumps and repair Fresh and Hen and Farm Eggs 25kg Granular Bicycle Salt for Dishwashers free watches at reasonable Fiddles HIGH GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, 25kg Cube Ideal Salt forpresent Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, for children. Full selection of Blue NowStamps, in stock FROM store. Adult bicycle €250. (Violins) Half, Threesalts Quarter & Full TABLE LAMPS AND LANTERNS €12.99 and Iron Cast Frypans Colour Photocopying Service HIGH GRADE CLEAR PARAFFIN, OIL HEATERS, Willow Delph. Epsom forselection feet or size. baths Ideal present for children. Full of Coal, Blue WatchLAMPS Batteries, Watch Straps and FROM €12.99 Shotguns, Rifles and per Air Rifles In Stock €1.99 lb, Briquettes, Firelogs (4 foror€5), TABLE AND LANTERNS Willow Delph. Epsom salts for feet baths CarCHRISTMAS Key Batteries Replaced TREES Shot Gun Cartridges, Bullets - Eley,Pumps LOTTO SOME UNWELCOME Tyres, Tubes, & Repair Kits€5), in-store €1.99 lb, Briquettes, Firelogs (4 for Coal, RemmingtonBicycle - all topper brands stocked. 25% OFFCHRISTMAS ALL Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, Freshly cut, allTREES sizes. Cartridge Belts, CHRISTMAS Decoys, Cleaning Kits Bicycle Tyres, Tubes, PumpsVISITORS? & Repair Kits in-store Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, SOME UNWELCOME HOLLY AND CHRISTMAS Laminating, fax, stamps, colour andAvailable mice; try our one dose bait. Flys Stationery: -FRESH Largest Selection in Co. Roscommon Freshly cut, all sizes. Inland Fisheries IrelandRats Permits CHRISTMAS VISITORS? SOME UNWELCOME KEY CUTTING SERVICE Licenced Rat Firearms Dealer photocopying service. batteries traps, mouse traps, mink traps, purse nets, WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO FRESH HOLLY ANDWatch CHRISTMAS RatsCHRISTMAS and mice - try our one dose bait No Longer Want To Licence YourGoose Firearm? VISITORS? HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER KEYS watch straps and car key batteries replaced grease, sulphur BLUESTONE FOR SOOT IN RANGES Rat Traps, Mouse Traps. Mink Traps, Purse WREATHS AVAILABLE ALSO We Can Store It Or Destroy It For A Small Fee MORTICE, CAR ETC.spinning rods, fly RatsNets, and mice try our one dose bait Fishing tackle, pike rods, Recycling Centre Tickets GooseTraps. Grease, Sulpher AND NOW IN RANGES STOCK All prices validRat See ourCHIMNEYS selectionFOR of House Safes IN BLUESTONE SOOT untilTraps, December 14th Mouse Mink Traps, Purse Rods, reels, spinners, flys – largest selection in 25kg gritting salt, Recycling Tickets Nets, GooseCentre Grease, Sulpher AND CHIMNEYS NOW IN STOCK County Roscommon. 25kg granular salt forSalt dishwashers 25kg Gritting Recycling Centre Tickets 25kg Granular Salt Dishwashers KEY CUTTING SERVICE – house keys, locker 25kg cube salt forfor water 25kg Gritting Saltsofteners 25kg Cube Salt for Watersoftners Laminating, Fax, Stamps, Keys, mortice, car etc. Iron cast frying pans 25kg Granular Salt for Dishwashers and Iron Cast Frypans Colour Photocopying Service 25kg Cuberifles Saltand for Watersoftners See our selection of house safes.and Laminating, Fax, Stamps, Shotguns, rifles in Watch Batteries, Watch Straps Shotguns, Rifles and Airair Rifles In stock. Stock and Iron Cast Frypans Colour Photocopying Service cartridges, Key Batteries Replaced See theCar best selection in town of Christmas Shot Gun Shotgun Cartridges, Bullets - Eley, Watch Batteries, Watch Straps and Shotguns, Rifles and Air Rifles In Stock Bullets – Eley, Remmington Remmington all top brands stocked. cakes, plum puddings, boxes of chocolates, 25% OFF ALL Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, Car Key Batteries Replaced Shot Gun Cartridges, - Eley, –Belts, all topDecoys, brandsBullets stocks. Cartridge Cleaning Kits tins of biscuits, Christmas lights, fibre Spinners, optic trees, Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Remmington - all top brands stocked. 25%- OFF ALLred Fishing Tackle, Pike Rods, Cartridge belts, decoys and cleaning kits Flys Largest Selection in candles. Co. Roscommon long Christmas Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Available Cartridge Belts, Decoys, Cleaning Kits Spinning Rods, Fly Rods, Reels, Spinners, InlandLicenced FisheriesFirearms Ireland Permits PETS - KEY See our selection ofin rabbit hutches, CUTTING SERVICE - bird Dealeravailable Flys - Largest Selection Co. Roscommon Inland Fisheries Ireland Permits Available Dealer cages, aquariums, dog LOCKER collars, dog leads, No LongerLicenced Want To Firearms Licence Your Firearm? HOUSE KEYS, KEYS KEY CUTTING SERVICE - dog Licenced Firearms Dealer No longer to licence your cushions, dogCAR flea collars. We Can Store Itwant Or Destroy It For A firearm? Small Fee MORTICE, ETC. No Longer Want To Licence Your Firearm? HOUSE KEYS, LOCKER KEYS We can store and horse head collars. SeePony our selection of House Safes AllStore pricesItvalid until December 14th We Can Or Destroy It For A Small Fee it or destroy it for a small fee. CARforETC. WormersMORTICE, and flea treatments cats and dogs. See our selection of House Safes All prices valid until December 14th

Lotto

May we thank you our Customers Lotto for your business during the year and we wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas

May we thank you our Customers May we thank youduring our Customers for your business the year your the year and wefor wish youbusiness a Happyduring and Holy Christmas and we wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

NewsPeople

‘Girlboss’ feminism and buzzword activism en in the workplace is not as simple as girlboss culture makes it out to be. Girlboss feminism teaches women that their career goals can be achieved through the personal determination and hard work they put in, entirely disregarding the outside factors (A student’s perspective) and structures that continually hinder women’s careers. In doAlannah Ita Healy ing so, girlboss feminism does a great disservice to the same The term ‘girlboss’ (first nearly every successful busi- women it tries to inspire. By failing to acknowledge coined by Nasty Gal CEO nesswoman who popped into Sophia Amoruso in her 2014 the news, featured constantly issues such as how patriarchy book) describes a woman in the tags of female entrepre- plays a part in establishing a “whose success is defined in neurs’ posts, and, as with any woman’s role in the workplace, opposition to the masculine buzzword that falls into popu- and by completely sidestepbusiness world in which she larity, was quickly capitalised ping the different challenges swims upstream”. Though on – sold as a slogan on note- faced by women who aren’t some initially criticised the pads, t-shirts, water bottles etc. cis, able-bodied, and/or woman term for being infantilising At its core, the term ‘girlboss’ of colour, it quickly becomes and creating an unnecessary revolved around a way of apparent how shallow the endistinction between female thinking that suggested wom- tire concept is. Girlboss femiand male bosses (boybosses?), en could pursue and attain nism roots itself in this ‘girl the term was largely celebrat- workplace power and equal- power’/’women can do everyed for empowering women ity by relying on how driven thing’ idea and hangs onto it for in business. It soon grew in and hard-working they could dear life, refusing to acknowlpopularity, with the concepts be. Indeed, for some people, edge the realities of how sexof girlboss culture and girl- the term itself, coupled with ism affects different people in boss feminism becoming the stream of stories about a real sense, leaving it entirely mainstream in the media. In successful ‘girlboss’ CEOs, unequipped to deal with the ismore recent times however, did serve as a beneficial form sue at all. The girlboss approach to femias its use became more and of inspiration. After all, since more widespread and people the vast majority of women nism doesn’t work, due to how began analysing it more criti- have experienced some form it fails to acknowledge intercally, girlboss’s standing as a of direct sexual discrimination sectionality and how much of an progressive, feminist concept in the workplace (as well as onus it puts on women to overquickly began to fall away. having to face systemic sex- ride the challenges of existing The initial rise in popular- ism), the idea that such hurdles sexism, as opposed to encourity of the term girlboss made could be overcome through aging all people to work to dissense. The idea behind it personal actions was a very al- mantle sexism in the first place. In the last year or two, the seemed rooted in the em- luring one. powerment and celebration Of course, the very thing that public perception of girlboss’s of working women, and the made the concept so invit- validity as a feminist term/conconcept itself tied in well with ing would also be the thing cept took a turn. Now the term the ongoing hustle culture that, with a more critical eye, is more often used in an ironic that had already been rife for would reveal how demon- sense, poking fun at a buzzword quite some time. In the years strably false the philosophy that managed to gain so much unwarranted popularity. after the term was first coined, around girlboss culture was. The rise and fall of the term it was being used to describe The path to success for wom-

Let’s talk about ... ‘Girlboss’ feminism

Sophia Amorus.

girlboss is another in a long list of buzzwords that occupied the public consciousness for far too long before being dismissed as hollow. There seems to be a consistent eagerness within the media to hop onto the newest ‘woke’ buzzword and use it to bottle down complex issues into easily digestible jargon. However, devoid of the nuance these issues require, there is no space for them to actually be solved. These buzzword terms like ‘girlboss’ – even when well intentioned – don’t have enough substance or thinking behind them to represent the issues they claim to, and because of this, they are destined to fade away into irrelevancy (or in this case, become a meme!).

Galway ring road is a lost opportunity Plans for the construction of a ring road bypassing Galway city were approved by An Bord Pleanála this week, to a host of controversial opinions. Obviously the project would be very helpful in terms of reducing traffic and improving cyclist / pedestrian safety, however, given the cost, backlash, and environmental implications, the project’s approval was surprising. Galway city certainly has a traffic problem, but it is one that would be much better solved if the funding went towards public transport. Improved public transport, or perhaps a light rail system, would not just reduce traffic for residents and those passing through, but it would also benefit the environment – something the current plan (given the predicated emissions the road’s traffic will produce) will do the opposite of. This decision represents a missed opportunity, and it is wholly unsatisfying to see – especially given all the recent talk about the government’s commitment to climate action.

New climate action programme to be launched in Cloontuskert this Saturday Workers’ Villages is a commemoration of architect Frank Gibney’s legacy and an exploration of what we can learn from the exemplary Bord na Móna villages he designed in the 1950s as we move towards a sustainable future for the region. On Saturday, December 11th at 12 pm, the project will kickoff in Cloontuskert in County Roscommon with a festive feast and family treasure hunt. There will be music, mulled wine and Christmas cheer as architects Evelyn D’Arcy and David Jameson display archival images and maps and invite residents to share their memories, thoughts and visions for the village. In 2022, Workers’ Villages will start working with residents of Lanesboro, County Longford and Kilcormac, County Offaly. Right now communities around the midlands are com-

ing to grips with the impact of Ireland’s move away from peat harvesting. They are affected not just by job loss but also a loss of identity and community. As we grapple with the real challenges of climate change and the biodiversity crisis, we risk leaving behind the workers and their communities who once brought light into our homes and created power sovereignty for our young country. With support from Creative Ireland’s Climate Action Fund, communities at the centre of this change are looking to the legacy of one architect, Frank Gibney, for inspiration for the future of their villages. Tania Banotti, Director of Creative Ireland, stated: “We are very excited to be supporting this project, which speaks to the heart of Just Transition. Frank Gibney was an architect with a progressive vision for a mod-

ern rural Ireland. By looking to him, and to the communities he formed through his designs, we can ensure those whose labour served us all have a voice in the changing rural landscape, and perhaps even find an innovative blueprint for sustainable rural development”. Shauna O’Neill, Chairperson

of the Cloontuskert Development and Tidy Towns Association, added: “Cloontuskert’s selection for the Workers’ Villages project is testament to the collective vision shared by the many families who travelled from all over our island to make Cloontuskert their home in the early 1950s. From this, life was

given to many future generations, making the community of Cloontuskert what it is today. We are so excited for the journey that Workers’ Villages will bring for Cloontuskert, including giving our community an important voice in sharing our memories, thoughts, and visions for the future. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone involved in this project”. Spearheaded by the Irish Architecture Foundation and environment organisation Global Action Plan, Workers’ Villages will see architect-led teams of designers and researchers examine Gibney’s vision and legacy and explore how his design values can be applied to the changing environment, in particular as Bord na Móna moves away from the use of peat for energy production. This will be a creative process

with a focus on co-design and placemaking led by the local communities involved, while partners Pure Designs Studio from Roscommon will create a film documenting the process. Students and researchers from the School of Architecture in UL will provide valuable research underpinning for this project. The Workers’ Villages project is part of the Irish Architecture Foundation’s Reimagine programme. Reimagine works with communities across Ireland to co-create and co-design solutions to problems or opportunities they’ve identified in their locality. Reimagine is made possible by Creative Ireland’s National Creativity Fund and additional funding through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. To stay up to date on this project, visit www.reimagineplace.ie.

#Roscommon Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

€1,000

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

TEN €100 VOUCHERS

to be won by ten lucky readers! Courtesy of the Roscommon People and Roscommon Chamber of Commerce

Roscommon Chamber & Roscommon People

VOUCHER COMPETITION

ENTRY FORM

Answers to competition (Find the Roscommon Chamber Crest)

The crest appeared in following advertisements: Week One 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Two 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Three 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Four 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________

ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON -------------------------------

Name: Address:

__________________________ ________________________

____________________________________

How to enter

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

Find the crest… To enter, name all eight advertisements in which the Chamber crest is ‘hidden’ – that’s two each week. Only submit your entry after Week 4 of the campaign (Roscommon (Roscommon People issue dated December 24th, 2021). Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher competition’ by 2 pm on Thursday, December 23rd. Please make sure to include your name, address and contact number – and all eight answers (see entry coupon)! Entries by post or hand to the Roscommon People, People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. We will accept entries by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Ten winners will be selected, with each winner receiving a €100 voucher Vouchers redeemable with businesses that are members of Roscommon Chamber.

____________________________________ ____________________________________

Submit this entry form AFTER Week 4

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Unique gifts with a Roscommon flavour Handmade gift ideas

Christmas lanterns by www. michellemadethis.com

Shannonbridge Pottery Tea Time In Roscommon Mug €10.95. Available at ETL, Roscommon town.

For fans of DIY and homemaking, Michelle Made This (www.michellemadethis.com) boasts a range of handmade goods including a number of beautiful Christmas creations. The creations are the brainchild of Michelle Fallon, who designs and makes adorable gifts, accessories, homewares, and dolls from her charming cottage, ‘An Teach Bán’ in Corbo, Co. Roscommon.

Festive foodies!

Looking for Christmas food inspiration? Well, here in Roscommon we are lucky to have a number of award-winning companies who specialise in the very best of local produce. The Waldron family in Brideswell (www.waldronmeats.ie) offer a range of hampers featuring everything from home cured rashers, homemade pudding, handmade sausages, and roast in the bag maple

Castle St., Roscommon. Tel.: (090) 66 26041.

Email: info@skincarehairspa.com • Web: www.skincarehairspa.com

Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year

CHRISTMAS GIFTS NOW IN STOCK Giftsets & Gift Vouchers Available

Baked Ham (in a Maple & Mustard Glaze) from Waldron Meats.

joints. A delicious gift for the foodie in your family for a stress-free start to the Christmas shopping!

Creativity in aid of Hospice

Looking for something creative? Castlerea-based artist, Susan Ellen Igoe (www.ellensusanigoeart. com), has just launched her ‘Spideog’ collection ahead of Christmas. Featuring gift cards and prints with the iconic image of a robin perched on a branch, they are

the perfect way to send Christmas wishes while supporting Mayo-Roscommon Hospice foundation, which receives 50 per cent of profits.

Take a break!

Take a break from the festive rush with the ‘tea time’ range from Shannonbridge Pottery (available at ETL Roscommon). This range offers colourful ‘Tea Time in Roscommon’ teapots and mugs. The perfect gift for those who love a cuppa!

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

• Church Street, Roscommon • Telephone: 090 6626097

Complete range of Knitwear from Clipper, Boston, Kessler, Gilt Edge, Zazzi & Belika – up to 6XL Shirts from Martinique, Zazzi, Open all day SUNDAY Seison Sticker – up to 6 XL from 9. Coats by Magee, SS4 – up to size 60 Slacks – up to size 58 – in short, regular and long

Late opening Christmas week

30am til 6pm

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL TELEPHONE: 087 2295551

Lions Club church gate collection The annual Roscommon Lions Club church gate collection will take place this weekend (December 11th and 12th). This year’s collection will go towards the upkeep of the town’s defibrillators and Lions Club charities. Please support generously.

Gifts to&Enjoy Treasure Indoor Plants and Free Gift Wrapping Stylish Christmas Décor and Homeware Gifts for Gardeners and all the Family Gift Tokens

Quality•Value • Choice • Advice

Ardcarne We’re here to help Garden Centre

www.ardcarne.ie

At two great locations: Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Rd., Roscommon Town Tel: 090 662 7700 Open Monday to Saturday 9-6pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-6pm

ARDCARNE GARDEN CAFÉ (Boyle branch) Open 7 days

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Advertorial

Christmas all wrapped up for you at the Abbey Hotel Enjoy the build-up to the festive season in style at the Abbey. Carvery and lounge food is served daily, as well as a delightful festive à la carte menu, serving festive Christmas puddings and mince pies. Why not experience the culinary delights of the MultiAward Winning Chefs at the 4* Abbey Hotel Roscommon, for a dining experience where casual elegance and sophistication meets in a timeless relaxed atmosphere. County Winners of the RAI Best Chef & Best Hotel

Restaurant Award 2019. The 4* Abbey Hotel in Roscommon offers a varied range of dishes prepared from only the freshest of locally sourced produce and served with great care and attention to detail, therefore making it the perfect setting, whether dining in Roscommon for business or pleasure. The hotel offers an extensive Seasonal Bar Food Menu for those wishing for a less formal experience. Lounge Food is served daily from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m. Afternoon Tea is available and cost is €25 pp (with prior booking essential) there is also a takeaway Afternoon tea option. It is advisable to make dinner reservations as our restaurant and lounge areas can be very busy at weekends and during the busy peak seasons especially with busy mid terms coming up. With the current COVID restrictions, all those wishing to dine in the Lounge and restaurant area must pre book their table. We also have a new Pizza Menu available to eat in or take out.

After dinner guests can relax by the open fire in the luxurious newly refurbished lounge areas or in the Abbey Hotel Bar. There is an extensive drinks and ‘Wines of the World’ menu to choose from and a range of Cocktails are also served including the RAI award-winning ‘Apple of my eye’ Martini. We also serve an extensive range of craft beers, whiskeys, and liquors. The Abbey Hotel is renowned for it’s Sunday Lunch with Carvery Lunch served from 12.00pm 4.00pm. We also serve a FourCourse Lunch Menu in our award-winning Restaurant. Dinner is served from 6pm - 9pm each evening with Seasonal Bar Food served from 4.30 - 9.00 p.m daily. Samples of our menus are all available to view on our website. Gift Vouchers are available to purchase on our website www.abbeyhotel.ie or direct from hotel reception. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook Instagram and Twitter.

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions

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

Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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

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

With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358

info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

WiW sih ggaallll off o ouurrcc uts oe m er sihn in us otm rs asMa erM ryerry ChC rh is m aa ssaan ap ppp nd yw ny ee w rt is tm nd dh ha yyaa nd heh ae lta hlyt h ne aryear

C hristmas People

with Rachel Garvey What’s the one gadget you’d really like this Christmas? I would really like the Google Nest Hub. It has speakers and a screen and you can ask it questions. It would be great for putting together the shopping list and I could listen to music so it would be really handy to have around the house. One Christmas present you’ll always remember… My husband Niall and I got engaged at Christmas in 2016 so an engagement ring was a really good present to get! We got married in 2019, thankfully before the arrival of Covid-19. All I want for Christmas is… I really want us to move into our new house before Christmas this year. We’ve had all the Covid-19 lockdowns while it was being built so it would be great if it was all finished before then. Kilteevan native Rachel Garvey is the lead singer with Gatehouse, who will be performing at the Roscommon Christmas Festival in Roscommon town on Saturday, December 11th.

Christmas Christmas Draw now Draw now on!on!

Opening hours: Opening hours: Monday Friday: 9am 9am ––6pm Monday –– Friday: 6pm Saturday: 9am––4:30pm 4:30pm Saturday: 9am 090 6625900 090 6625900 info@vsr.ie info@vsr.ie Veterinary Supplies Supplies Veterinary Ros Ros

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Merry Stressmas everyone: How to survive the most wonderful time of the year! < MIRIAM KERINS

It’s meant to be a time of peace, joy, goodwill to all, and spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, despite the fact Christmas is called ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, many will contradict you, telling you that for them, it’s actually the most stressful time of their lives. Add in a pandemic, financial concerns, domineering relatives, the bore who drinks too much alcohol, and the idiot you’ve managed to avoid the other eleven months of the year, visiting your home, sure is it any wonder our mental health and wellbeing comes under enormous amounts of stress? Therefore, for those of us who’ve decorated, shopped ourselves silly, written and posted piles of cards, and panicked as we checked our dwindling bank balance, here are my top tips for protecting our emotional wellbeing this festive season. Recognise your feelings and accept that they are valid. Therefore, if you’re anxious and feeling overwhelmed, try not to feel pressured into doing/attending/cooking/visiting anything or

anyone outside of your comfort zone. Try to remind yourself that Christmas is really just one day a year, so celebrate it and observe it, exactly how you choose to! When you’ve recognised those feelings, set expectations for yourself (and everyone in your circle) by explaining how you’d like Christmas to look and how you’d like it to go. Please remember to ask them how they’d like their day to go too. If a situation turns up and you feel it threatens to spoil the preparations you’ve

strived so hard to put in place, please don’t be afraid to say so; and importantly, don’t be afraid to set boundaries and say “no” to someone you don’t want on your guest list. Now that we’ve set our expectations and our boundaries, it’s time for ‘control freaks’ (like me), to come to terms with the fact we cannot manage everything that happens on the day. We cannot restrict what our parents/relatives say after too much wine; nor can we control our moody teenagers’ bad attitudes. However, as we obsessive compulsive perfectionists absolutely must maintain control over something, why not take control of our own thoughts and our own actions and let everyone else worry about theirs. Try to get as much sleep as possible. We all know that sleep deprivation can result in our emotions going into overdrive. Therefore, instead of partying hard or staying up late four nights in a row to binge on Netflix, prioritise yourself and go to bed early. Remember, a good night’s sleep not only helps reduce our stress levels, it also helps boost our immune systems, something which is very important during these uncertain Covid-infused times.

Main Street, Roscommon SOCIAL DISTANCING MEASURES IN PLACE More privacy/more Comfy corners

order on line www.comfycafe.ie

OPEN FOR TAKEAWAY Now open from 8.30am

PHONE: 083 4844333

Also find us on Facebook/thecomfycafe

Circular Road, Roscommon | Tel. 090 66 27600 www.toplinewards.ie

Bring festive spirit to your home with our Christmas decoration ideas

Large Selection Of Christmas Trees, Lights, Wreaths, Garlands, Decorations and Gift Ideas to choose from

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

1 Week Only 9th - 15th December 1 Week only 9th - 15th Dec

HALF PRICE

SuperValu Signature Tastes Christmas Pudding/Cake Bar/ Christmas Cake Selected Range 100g - 1.3kg (Details In-store or Online) (Supplier of Signature Tastes Round Christmas Cake: O'Hara's Bakery Ltd)

€40 EACH

49c EACH

SuperValu Onion Net 1kg was 59c, SuperValu Carrot Bag 1kg was 99c, SuperValu Parsnip Tray 500g - 98c/kg was 99c, SuperValu Brussels Sprouts Net 500g - 98c/kg was €1.49, SuperValu Yellow Melon 1pce was €1.69, Fyffes Gold Supersweet Pineapple 1pce was 99c, SuperValu Lemon & Lime Net 3pce was €1.10

Fleming’s

Now €14.73/kg SuperValu Fresh Irish Lamb Loin Chops was €21.99/kg

1 Week Only 9th - 15th December

SAVE 33%

€6.67 per bottle

Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc 6 Pack 75cl RRP €75/Torres Sangre de Toro 6 Pack 75cl RRP €68.94

Main Street, Roscommon Ph: 09066-26196

Now €15.40/kg SuperValu Fresh Irish Striploin Steak (Butcher Counter Only) was €22.99/kg

ORDER YOUR HALF PRICE IRISH TURKEY Talk to us in-store, we will be glad to help.

SuperValu Real Food, Real People

Offers valid from Thursday 9th December - Wednesday 15th of December 2021, unless otherwise stated. Offers Subject To Availability. Pictures For Illustration Purposes Only.Enjoy alcohol responsibly.

Santa Hat Walk and Fun Run!

Roscommon Athletics Club are hosting a Santa Hat 5k charity run/walk from Hannon’s Hotel in aid of Cancer Support Services in Vita House on Sunday, December 12th at 1 pm. A kids’ fun will take place at 11 am on the day while the adults’ run takes off at 11.30 am. There will be spot prizes on the day and all donations are appreciated.

Sean, Grace and Ella McGarry pictured in Roscommon town recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Seamus Duke book event in Dublin At the launch of Seamus Duke’s book ‘Dukie: The Game of Life’ in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon last month were Seamus Duke with his wife Teresa and their daughters Maeve and Caoimhe. Photo: Mick McCormack

Seamus Duke will be in Dublin to sell copies of his book ‘Dukie: The Game of Life’ on Tuesday, December 14th from 7.30pm at The Roselawn Inn, Blanchardstown. All welcome on the night. There is plenty of parking outside and people can come and go as they please. Well-known Dublin-based Rossies like Seamus Scally and former Roscommon manager Marty McDermott, will be there on the night. RTÉ presenter Damien O’Reilly will also be in attendance. The book is available to purchase at a number of shops locally including John

Corcoran Menswear, ETL, Casey’s, SuperValu Roscommon, Newsround, Mulvey’s, Carrick-on-Shannon, Timothy’s Londis, O’Brien’s, Lanesboro, Dawn Till Dusk, Strokestown, Cahill’s SuperValu, Castlerea, Kelly’s SuperValu, Boyle, Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghandereen, Burgess Bookshop, Athlone, Naughten’s, Ballydangan, SuperValu Monksland and Sammon’s Ballinasloe. You can also contact Seamus Duke on 086-8335380. Available nationwide from Padraig Kelly through PKSupplies.ie.

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

090 66 26664 / 087 6339548 / 087 8512921 email : info@connaughtonfuels.ie

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#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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Getting that work-life and home-life balance right this Christmas < MIRIAM KERINS

It’s Christmas, and for those of us working from home, it’s fair to say, trying to strike that balance between our worklife and our family-life is about to get challenging in a way it never has before. Those of us who work from home most of the week will tell you that productivity and organisation are key. However, as crèches/schools/colleges etc., will be closing for the festive season, and a partner (also working remotely) constantly gets under your feet, it won’t be long before your home-life, your Christmas preparations and your work-life are going to overlap...causing absolute chaos! But don’t despair. I’ve been a working parent since the age of 18 and I know all about prioritising and balancing my work/family duties. It’s with that thought in mind, I’ve put together some tips which I hope will help you to manage your expectations and, ahem, save your sanity.

Have a heart-to-heart with your boss. Explain that while you’re totally committed to your job and your career (after all, you’ve worked hard to get where you are), that this working from home situation may throw up a few minor obstacles.

Don’t, whatever you do, make the assumption your partner is going to take on half of the duties…you may

be very disappointed! Talk to him/her, and let them know if you need more support. Remind them that your particular established relationship norm is no longer going to function during these pandemic enforced restrictions.

If you’re a working dad, can I mention that, very often, due to the gender bias faced by working mothers, bosses may (wrongly) believe that you’ve got fewer responsibilities at home…you don’t! Make sure work knows that you’ve got to step up and deliver and collect kids from sporting activities, attend nativity plays, change nappies, cook meals and help shop for Christmas gifts etc.

Ask a trusted friend or relative to take the kids for a day and spend that time with your partner to shop for gifts, festive food and anything else that needs to be purchased. While you’ve escaped the laptop and the home, treat yourselves to a meal at a local restaurant and use that time to reconnect with each other. Sometimes parents tend to forget that before the kids came along, they were a fabulous, fun, carefree couple.

Try to get some ‘me’ time. At the end of the work day, switch off the laptop and choose rest. Watch an episode of your favourite TV programme, have a bath, or treat yourself to a cheeky little snack over replying to emails that can wait until tomorrow!

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Top reads for sports fans this Christmas! Books are the Christmas gift that keeps on giving, so ahead of the festive rush, Elliot Grealy has a few winning suggestions for the sports fan in your life… ‘Devotion: A Memoir’ by Micky Harte (with Brendan Coffey) Devotion is a collaboration between Mickey and author Brendan Coffey. It’s the story of the Harte family’s decadelong struggle to come to terms with an almost unimaginable loss. The book is a study in how sport and faith can sustain us in our most difficult moments. And, finally, it’s a portrait of one of Irish sport’s true icons.

‘Dark Blue’ by Shane Carthy Shane Carthy writes frankly and eloquently about his journey over the last five years. He details the

downward spiral which just days after producing a man-ofthe-match display in Dublin’s 2014 Leinster U-21 final win over Meath, saw him wake up in St. Patrick’s Hospital in Dublin. Carthy also explains how he got himself back on track and how he wants to show people that there is light at the end of the tunnel

‘Unbroken’ by Aidan O’Mahony Former Kerry defender Aidan O’Mahony shares his experiences dealing with asthma while competing at the highest level. From the failed drugs test at the height of his career, to an on-pitch incident that would

have him question who he was, to the life-changing decision that enabled him to discover a sense of peace.Unbroken is an account of how the control we think we have can be shattered in a split second and that real strength lies in being able to ask for help.

‘Crossing The Line’ by Willie Anderson Irish rugby has produced many charismatic largerthan-life characters over the years. None more so than Willie Anderson, a man remembered for his defiant stance in the face of the All Blacks’ Haka. Crossing The Line is the story of Willie’s life which has been challenged by sectarianism, addiction, and personal tragedy.

‘Fight or Flight’ by Keith Earls (with Tommy Conlon) Rugby international Keith Earls

has kept a low profile throughout his career. Here, for the first time he talks in depth about the inner turmoil that went unseen by teammates, friends and fans. A story of the pain that was a constant companion to the glory days.

‘Outside of the Right’ by Frankie Dolan (with Dan Dooner) A one-time Roscommon maverick shares his story of life with and without Gaelic football. From where it all began back in Athlone Community College to winning an All-Ireland medal in the green and red of his beloved St. Brigid’s, this autobiography is an honest and humorous account of an

Newsround

Established: 1986

often controversial career. A mustread for all Roscommon GAA fans and supporters of Gaelic football in general as Frankie tells his unique story.

‘A Nation Holds Its Breath’ by George Hamilton A Nation Holds Its Breath is a lyrical journey through the key moments of popular broadcaster, George Hamilton’s life and career. A voice so familiar to millions is present on every page, as he charts his formative days in Belfast, early career in London and eventual arrival in Dublin and RTÉ. The ‘Voice of the Nation’ has his say on his own glittering career. *Elliot Grealy is a transition year student at Roscommon Community College, who recently completed work experience with the Roscommon People.

Main Street, Roscommon 8am - 6pm (Monday to Saturday) and 9am to 6pm (on Sunday)

There’s nothing quite like a good book at Christmas ... wonderful range of latest releases at Newsround now .... Also: Newspapers/magazines; greeting cards; gifts; toys; stationery & school books

Thank you to all our customers for their support in this difficult year. Wishing you all a very happy and safe Christmas and every good wish for the New Year

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Wishing you all a very happy and safe Christmas and thank you for your custom

FINBAR O’REILLY & CO. LTD. Chartered Accountants

Abbey Street, Roscommon

Tel: 090 6630760

Classic Cutz

Church Street, Roscommon Prop: Joan Tully Treacy

Wishing all our clients a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

Bookings now being taken for Christmas appointments

Telephone: (090) 6627607 Mobile: 087 7671148 Find us on

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Crean & Co

Accountants & Tax Consultants

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6626680 Email: info@creanaccountants.ie

Roscommon Drama Group finish third at All-Ireland One-Act Drama Festival!

Tom Holian wins ‘Best Actor’ Last weekend, the Roscommon Drama Group and their supporters travelled to Ennis to take part in the All-Ireland One Act Finals, having qualified in fifth place in the qualifying league. After a long and arduous season of readings, rehearsals, and qualifying, they finally took to the stage on Sunday afternoon. With a magnificent performance of Geraldine Aron’s ‘A Galway Girl’, Bernie Maher and Tom Holian, under Mary Cox’s direction, climbed the mountain and gained third place in the overall standings. Tom Holian took the All-Ireland Confined Best Actor Award. The Phoenix Players from Tubbercurry were the overall winners with ‘The Plaza Suite’ and the runners up were the Navan Theatre Group with ‘Normal’. For the Roscommon Drama Group, in only their fourth year on the circuit, it was a fabulous result to finish in the frame. Well done to all the team, including the backroom team who are nearly always forgotten – Edwina Holian (stage manager), Seamus Maher (transport), Sean Cox (lighting), and everybody

Thomas A Murray’s Traditional Pub

Roscommon Drama Group director Mary Cox pictured at the All-Ireland One-Act Finals in Ennis last weekend.

Tom Holian pictured with his All-Ireland Confined Best Actor Award in Ennis.

who helped in any way. Thank you also to the supporters who travelled to Ennis and round the circuit. The group return to the local stage on Sunday night, when they will give an unusual perfor-

along with many other members of the group live on stage. Due to Covid-19 and to keep the group active, the group had been preparing these plays for recording as radio plays. Under Enda, the group adapted

mance of two one act plays in the Arts Centre – ‘The Tinkers Wedding’ and ‘Spreading The News’, both directed by local renowned actor Enda Oates. This is a chance for you to see Bernie, Tom, and Mary,

GANNON’S

Furniture & Carpets

them to stage. Sunday night’s programme is a novel performance of the recording of the plays on stage, and a great night’s theatre is assured for all. Numbers are still limited due to Covid and booking is recommended.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year. Thank you for your support throughout the last year.

Donal Keigher and Co. SOLICITORS

Castle Street, Roscommon gs from Christmas greetin . all at Murray’s Bar

ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

Wishing all our customers a very happy and safe Christmas. Adrian, Tim & Jillian

Thank you for all your support throughout the year. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year

Town Agents, Pearts, 24/26 Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin 7

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

NORIO’S CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON

Fast food with a smile!

Telephone (090) 66 30532

TEL: (090) 66 65998

Castle Street, Roscommon (by appointment). Tel/Fax: 090 66 26124 Northgate Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Tel/Fax: 090 64 77707 -------------------------------------------------Donal Keigher, Solicitor

• Wills and Probate • Conveyancing • Litigation • Accidents • Defamation/Libel

Painting & Decorating Contractor Gift Vouchers Available

WALLPAPER HANGING AVAILABLE

KEEN RATES – No job too big or too small

(090) 66 25643 • (087) 6396667 KILTEEVAN, ROSCOMMON

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Some holly, jolly Christmas cocktail suggestions for you to enjoy! EGGNOG

Are you fed up with your bog-standard mulled wine and boring mimosas? Yes? We know how you feel. We also know that, while Christmas is a time for celebration, the thing is, due to Covid, the advice we’re getting is to keep everything low-key (again); meaning our merry and bright activities may need to be confined to our social bubbles. However, there are still plenty of reasons to push that boat out. With that in mind, I’ve put together three of my personal favourite holly, jolly festive-inspired Christmas cocktails. I hope you enjoy them – Miriam Kerins

POINSETTIA COCKTAIL

MISTLETOE MARTINI

Back in the day when I worked at RTÉ, I booked celebrity chef Nigella Lawson as my guest on The Afternoon Show, and she gave me this delightful (and in my opinion lipsmacking) Poinsettia cocktail recipe (featured in her Nigella Christmas book), assuring me that it was “satisfyingly quaffable”. She didn’t lie and I’ve been making it ever since. Here’s what you need. A bottle of prosecco, 125 millilitres of Grand Marnier or Cointreau (I favour the Cointreau), 500 mililitres of cranberry juice and ice. Mix together in a large jug, chill in the fridge and pour into champagne flutes as soon as your guests arrive.

A mistletoe martini is the perfect way to kick off the festivities; and, while there are plenty of variations of this Christmas classic, I think you’ll like my easy to prepare version. All you need is ice, 1.5oz vodka, .75oz cherry brandy, sugar, raspberries, the juice of a fresh lime, a sprig of fresh rosemary to garnish and a martini glass. Fill your cocktail shaker half way with the ice and pour in your alcoholic ingredients. Shake…don’t stir, and strain the mixture into your martini glass. Serve garnished with the sprig of rosemary and a couple of raspberries.

(Vegan version)

We all know that the classic Christmas eggnog recipe can be a real crowd pleaser, but what if one of your guests is vegan? Don’t panic, we’ve got you sorted; just substitute your dairy ingredients with cashew nuts, a smidgen of mixed spice, pitted dates, apricots and sweetened almond milk. Soak everything, (except the almond milk) overnight in brandy. Next day, blitz everything into a blender, and then add the almond milk, pour into glasses, add ice and a touch of nutmeg to garnish.

Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for all your support in 2021

Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and New Year

James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd, Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 C982 Ph: 090 6634365 Mob: 087 8228529 Email: james@jlce.ie or aaron@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Architects – Consulting Engineers

Lanesboro Rd Rd,, Roscommon. Roscommon. T. 090 66 34671 / 086 8769291 Email: info@hanlymotors.ie • www.hanlymotors.ie Thank you for all your support throughout the year.

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for your support during 2021

Noel Carr + Co.

Chartered Accountants Castle Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 26073 Fax: (090) 66 25023 Email: noelcarr@noelcarr.ie

Abbey Meats

Prop. John Igoe

Quality Butcher

Abbey Street, Roscommon Telephone: 086 3120819 Now taking orders for Christmas Season’s greetings to one and all from all at

CLASSIC Security Solutions Ballybride, Roscommon

Suppliers of all security requirements • Mobile: 087-2287100 • Email: niall@classicsecuritysolutions.ie PSA & EQA Registered The Original – and still the best!

•

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Happy Christmas from Albert and staff at

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

CONLON

Consulting Engineering Ltd

• Building Regs Supervision • Planning Permissions • Cert of Compliance • Map Marking • Building Site Surveys & Inspections • Independent Engineering Reports • Snagging of Construction Projects •

CHARTERED ENGINEERS

Tel: 090 6665341/087 9580659 Email: info@conlonconsulting.ie Web: www.conlonconsulting.ie

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Assumpta’s Beauty Salon GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Late opening until 9.30 pm Tuesday – Friday

Athlone Road, Roscommon. (opposite Roscommon Hospital). Tel. 090 6626111 Follow us on Facebook for new treatments now avilable

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

A LETTER FROM SANTA…

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

(Serving Farmers for over 62 years) Property Services Providers (Licence No. 001373)

Christmas Cracker Special Sale of Heifers Friday, December 10th at 11 a.m. 50 pens on offer-2 Rings Also Dry Cows & Bullocks ----------------------

Final Sale for 2021 of Bullocks and Heifers

Dear children of Roscommon, Hello boys and girls! I trust you’re all keeping safe and doing your very best to stay on my ‘Nice’ list this year. December is finally here and things are getting pretty crazy up here in the North Pole! The elves are busy in the workshop, doing excellent work as always. We had to build an extension to the workshop this year to allow for social distancing but the elves were very patient while the work was going on. The reindeer are keen to get going too and we have had a few practice flights across Europe over the last few weeks, passing Ireland on the night of your famous Toy Show! The skies were very quiet so I’m sure you were all at home watching Ryan Tubridy (Nice list) and all the wonderful children involved in the show. Mrs. Claus (Nice list) and I decided to put up our Christmas decorations early this year, as the nights up here in Lapland can be cold and dark. Untangling the lights for the tree is the one Christmas job that makes me grumpy… so I paid the elves a Christmas bonus to do it this year! While I don’t like untangling the lights, I do love switching them on…and so I was delighted to be asked to flick the switch for Roscommon town recently. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there in person but due to Covid restrictions, the reindeer and I must isolate before making our worldwide trip this year.

Speaking of Covid, I know that this has been another difficult year and that some of you have had to miss out on school and sports, and visiting family and friends. You are not alone…I have received letters from all over the world from boys and girls who are worried too. Let me tell you that Mrs. Claus (Nice list) and I are so proud of how brave you have all been, and the reindeer and I are looking forward to visiting you on Christmas Eve. Also, before I forget, for those of you who haven’t done so yet, don’t forget to post your letters! You can even send them in to the kind people at the Roscommon People (Mostly ‘Nice’ list) and they will pass them on to me and maybe even publish some of them! You can send them to ‘Letters for Santa, The Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon’ or you can even email them to news@ roscommonpeople.ie. I’m sure, just like me, you can’t wait for Christmas to come around. I must say that you have all been very good these past months so keep up the great work! Keep doing your homework, helping around the house, and being kind to family and friends…and I’ll be there before you know it! See you soon, Santa Claus P.S. Mrs. Claus (Nice list) has me on this special diet so that I can fit into my suit. But she’s staying at the North Pole this Christmas Eve…so please leave out plenty of cookies!

Thank you for your support throughout the last year.

Wishing you all a very Happy and Safe Christmas and New Year from all at

Anchor Lifting Services Ltd Tel. 090 6625679

www.anchorliftingservices.com Supplier of: • Tying down chains and load binders. • Breakaway Trailer Chains • Tow Chains • Ratchet Straps • Slings Convent Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. F42 CX81 Tel: 00353 90 6625679. Mobile: Tom 086 8237856 www.anchorliftingservices.com

Email: anchorliftingservices@gmail.com

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for all your support in 2021

Castle Street Tyres Castle Street, Roscommon Telephone: (090) 66 25331

Friday, December 17th at 11 a.m. Also Dry Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Monday, 13th December ---------------------Tuesday, December 14th at 5 p.m.

Final Sale for Weanlings & Suckler Cows Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 9th Also

Special Entry of 10 excellent Quality Springers

In calf to PB LM bull - Due Feb/March & 6 Top Quality in Calf Cows (3rd Calvers up) In calf to Easy Calving Char Bull (Pirate) due end of January onwards ----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

FINAL SALE – Wednesday, December 15th at 11 a.m. ---------------------Friday, December 10th at 7 p.m.

Lisullane Charollais Pedigree Registered In Lamb Hogget Ewes- scanned in lamb

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

GAYNOR ARCHITECTURAL + DESIGN SERVICES LTD ARCHITECTS

Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Tel.: 090 66 26974 Fax: 090 6627353 Mobile: 086 8115449 Email: gaynorarchitects@eircom.net

Stockist of all leading brands of tyres Bridgestone, Firestone, Dunlop, Good Year Hankook, Budget brands 4-WHEEL ALIGNMENT & BALANCING Thank you for your support throughout the last year. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS FROM

Satara Boutique

Health Food Store GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON

Deposits now taken for Christmas Unit 2, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon, 0906627099

(090) 66 30492

Tattie Hoaker Directors: Maureen Brosnan, John Brennan and Aidan Gillan

Find us on facebook

Bridgestone Award Winners

Find us on facebook.com/TattieHoaker • Website: www.tattiehoaker.com

Abbey Street Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626520 Sean Costello Street, Athlone Telephone: 090 64 75232 Website: www.cormican.com Email: info@cormicans.com

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Klassic Cleaners

Church Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6625995 Dry Cleaning:

Suits, pants, coats,

jumpers, shirts, casual/formal dresses, etc.

• Ironing/pressing service 8 shirts for €10 (prepaid) Single Bedset €6.50 (4pc) (prepaid) FULL LAUNDRY SERVICE, including; Blankets, Duvets, Throws, Team Kits, etc.

ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS

Large selection of face masks in all sizes

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from all at

Happy Scissors

MOLLOY’S

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

Hair Studio

090 6665683 OPENING HOURS: Mon-Wed .... 9.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Thurs - Fri .... 9.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Saturday .... 9.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Offers available from 2nd December to 2nd January, unless otherwise stated. E&OE. While stocks last.

• CURTAINS A SPECIALITY

Opening hours: 9.00 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Saturday

Mural on Castle Street

Find us on Facebook

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Paul, Claire and

all the team at...

JJ HARLOW’S ––– THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON –––

Finance Available

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER®

6 Roscommon West Business Park Circular Road Roscommon 09066 30700 087 8299628

Wishing all our clients and friends a very Happy Christmas and thank you for all your support in 2021

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training & mentoring 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 or (086) 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

Roscommon artist Joe Caslin recently produced this stunning mural near to the Castle Street entrance of Loughnaneane Park in Roscommon town. This piece was commissioned by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and funded by Roscommon County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development. The mural depicts the resilience of Roscommon people.

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Christmas Festival this weekend! The Roscommon Christmas Festival takes place this Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th in the new-look Square in Roscommon town. The festival will feature well-known

local bands and musicians as well as street entertainment, food stalls, and a Christmas Market. As part of the festival, an 18-foot Crochet Christmas Tree has been designed

by students of the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon. The festivities will take place from 3 pm to 7 pm on both days with MC Seamus Duke.

The People’s Christmas Selection Box AIB sponsors ‘Best Christmas Window’

Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

For great homecooked food you can’t beat Horan’s family run restaurant.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year Thank you for your support during the year

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from all at

RESTAURANT & TAKE AWAY Castle Street. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 30503 BUSINESS AS USUAL

AIB are once again sponsoring the ‘Best Christmas Window’ display amongst the members of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce. Adjudicators will be visiting local premises anonymously over the festive period and the winners will be announced before Christmas. Roscommon Chamber thanks AIB for their continued support, the initiative adds to the festive spirit around the town.

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year. Thank you for your custom in

Time Pieces

MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON

RosFM’s Christmas Cracker Competition RosFM are organising a draw in the run up to Christmas. The first prize is a €100 fuel voucher for Connaughton’s Fuels which includes free delivery. There are also two Super Ser heaters, a hamper, and some beautiful Newbridge Glass as well. The RosFM Christmas Cracker will be in twelve different shops and businesses around Roscommon Town, one every day in the build up to Christmas. There will be one winner per shop and to find out where the cracker is you have to tune in to RosFm or check out Facebook and Twitter for clues. The draw will be made on Friday, December 24th at 3.15 pm on The Rossie Way programme.

HORAN’S RESTAURANT

Tel. 090 6625408

Lilli Mae, Holly Grace and John Paul McDermott pictured out in Roscommon recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

A big ‘thank you’ to the Christmas Lights committee

The Roscommon Christmas Lights committee has once again worked hard on their own time in order to brighten the town this Christmas. All Rossies are indebted to them every year for the effort they . make to bring the town to life There are too many volunteers to name individually so let us just say a very big ‘thank you’ to all involved!

info@timepieces.ie www.timepieces.ie (Follow us on Facebook)

Roscommon town SVP Appeal

tings ’s Gree Season

As a result of ongoing Covid-19 safety measures, St. Vincent de Paul Roscommon Town Conference will not be holding their annual church gate collection this year. Blue donation envelopes are available in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Credit Union and all local banks. Donations can be dropped in our post box: 15 Castleview, Roscommon. Anyone who wishes to contact the local St. Vincent de Paul for assistance can do so at 086-0741352 or by post to the above address. Your ongoing support is gratefully appreciated and it allows the Conference to help those in need at Christmas and throughout the year.

Lanesboro St., Roscommon Tel: 090 66 30444 www.futureflowers.ie Find us on facebook

Thank you for your custom in 2021

Hampers made to order

Celebrating 50 years in business

Thank you for all your support throughout the year. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

Season’s Greetings Thank you for your custom in 2021

Ballymurray, Ballymurray, Tom: (086) 81Roscommon 645 83 Roscommon Ballymurray, John: (087) 76 758 42 Roscommon Roscommon Office Phone: (090) 66 61047 Dublin Office Phone: (01) 525 2029 web www.tomcreanandson.ie e-mail: info@tomcreanandson.ie

Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Domestic, Heritage, Commercial, Industrial Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Domestic, Commercial, Industrial

& The Lilac Rooms

Great Christmas Gift Ideas

Charlie O’Brien and all at Rosmed Pharmacy would like to wish all our customers a very Happy Christmas and thanks for their custom in 2021

Rosmed Pharmacy

Golf Links Road, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 27007 • Fax: 090 66 27027

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

ry Happy Wishing you a ve st wishes be d an as Christm from for the New Year

Vita House Services Update

We're Open Vita House Services Update

Vita House Services Update We're Open

We're Open

Vita House Services Update

We're Open

Bernie Dowling & Staff of F.C.I. 19 Abbey Street, Roscommon

Vita House counselling, psychotherapy and family therapy remain open at Level 5 of the government's House counselling, psychotherapy and family roadmap ofVita COVID restrictions.

therapy remain open at Level 5 of the government's

FAMILY CARERS IRELAND

roadmap of COVID restrictions. Subject to strict adherence to public health guidelines, Vita House counselling, psychotherapy and family the redtherapy door remains open.to ask visitors acthealth guidelines, remain open atWe Level 5that of the government's Subject strict adherence to public responsibly androadmap within guidelines. If you have of COVID restrictions. the red door remains open. Weany ask that visitors act questions or concerns, please call office before If you have any responsibly andthe within guidelines. questions pleaseguidelines, call the office before visiting. or Subject to strict adherence to concerns, public health

Mob: 086 8099494 Tel: 090 66 44020/21

Email: bdowling@familycarers.ie Web: www.familycarers.ie

the red door remains open. We ask visiting. that visitors act

responsibly and within guidelines. If you have any Remote support will continue by phone or online for Vita House counselling, psychotherapy and family Remote support will bybefore phone or online for questions concerns, please call continue the those remain who doopen not or wish to visit the centre at office this time. therapy at Level of the those5who do government's not wish to visit the centre at this time. visiting. roadmap of COVID restrictions.

Vita House Services Update

We're Open

Remote support will continue by phone or online for

Subject to strict adherence to public health guidelines, orFahy 090 66(SVP 25898 or 090 66 25898 Pictured at the launch in Ballyhaunis were Maureen Mitchell (SVP Regional President), Mark Larkin (SVP Ballinlough), Jarlath Ballyhaunis), Mary those who doopen. not wish to that visit the centre time. the red door remains We ask visitors act at this Jessop (SVP Dunmore), Jeanne Gaffney (SVP Ballinlough), and Sally Higgins (SVP Ballyhaunis). responsibly and within guidelines. If you have any

SVP West region launch annual appeal Vita House Services U as national calls reach record levels We're Open questions or concerns, please the office before Contact us call at info@vitahouse.org visiting. or 090 66 25898

y Happy Wishing you a ver t wishes Christmas and bes for the New Year

Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498

F: (090) 6665590 E: info@liddyneilan.ie Practice areas include: • Conveyancing • Family Law • Probate, Wills & Estate Planning • Personal Injury Claims and Litigation* *in contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas

ROSCOMMON LEISURE CENTRE

090 66 28219 For further updates please go to roscommonleisurecentre.ie or see us on facebook For further details contact

Thank you for all your support throughout the year.

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year

In launching its annual appeal recently, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) said that calls for help this year will be at the highest level in its history, and could reach almost 200,000 by the end of December. The SVP Annual Appeal theme ‘Impossible Choices’ has again been chosen to reflect what those struggling financially face every day. Regional President Maureen Mitchell said that she was delighted to launch the appeal in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, with volunteers from nearby conferences from the three counties (Galway, Mayo and Roscommon). She noted the importance of the annual appeal to all the local conferences in the region as donations received are used to help vulnerable families in local communities. “Donations received are used to help people who are struggling in every community, and without the generosity of the general public, we would not be able to help,” she said. “The main assistance SVP provides is through our home visitation. With donations received, we are able to offer practical and financial support towards day-to-day essentials like food, heating and energy costs. Our volunteers are

Remote support will continue by phone or online for those who do not wish to visit the centre at this time. South Roscommon Family Resource Centre South Roscommon Family Resource Centre Work continues behind closed doors at South Contact us at info@vitahouse.org Roscommon FRC. Work continues behind closed doors at South or 090 66 25898 Roscommon FRC. Vita House counselling, psychotherapy and family South Roscommon Familyand Resource Centre While our groups workshops have had to be put on therapy remain open at Level 5Work of thecontinues government's behind doorstoatbeSouth hold at Level 5, closed we continue available for support to While our groups and workshops have had to be put on roadmap of COVID restrictions. anyone who needsFRC. it. If you are feeling isolated or lonely, Roscommon hold at Level 5, we continue to be available for support to you are struggling with parenting or any other issue, Subject to strict adherence to public healthifguidelines, anyone who needs it. If you are feeling isolated lonely, youopen. aWhile very Happy Christmas and if you need a safe space toor chat, please our groups andjust workshops have had to be put onget in touch. the red Wishing door remains We ask that visitors act South Roscommon Resource you arefor struggling with parenting or any other issue, to wishes Year fromto beCentre responsibly best and if within guidelines. IfNew you have any hold at the Level 5, Family we continue available for support Work continues behind closed doors at South Contact at familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org questions or concerns, call the office before if you please just need a needs safe space to us chat, pleaseisolated get in touch. anyone who it. If you are feeling or lonely, visiting. Roscommon FRC. or 090 66 28621 if you are struggling with parenting or any other issue,

also involved in educational and youth initiatives and work directly with the elderly in the community”. Maureen also noted the generosity of Contact us at need familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org if youby just safe space to chat, please get in touch. local donors in the region and asked Remote supportWhile will continue phone or aonline for our groups and workshops have had to be put on 090time. 66 28621 do not wish to visit the centre or at this that where possible, they remember those who Abbey hold at Street, Level 5, we Roscommon continue to be available for support to Contact us at familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org anyone needs it. If you are feeling isolated or lonely, SVP this Christmas. Contact us at who info@vitahouse.org Tel. (090) 25898 or 090 66 28621 if you are 66 struggling or 090 25898 with parenting or any other issue, There was also a special word of if you just need a safe space to chat, please get in touch. Vita House counselling, psychotherapy and acknowledgement for local SVP voluntherapy remain open at Level 5 of the govern Contact us at familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org teers who she said “will work tirelessly or 090 66 28621 roadmap of COVID restrictions. this Christmas, and indeed throughout the year, to support the most vulnerSubject South Roscommon Family Resource Centreto strict adherence to public health gu Work continues behind closed doors at South the red door remains open. We ask that visit able”. Roscommon FRC. While groups and workshops for all Vita House Services are ha responsibly and within guidelines. If you National President Rose McGowan currently suspended, counselling support are still available, CRO Number: 475518 CHYquestions Number:19275 Reg. and No.: 20075385 or Charity concerns, please call the office said the fact that the society has call 090 66 25898 for more information While our groups and workshops have had to be put on visiting. hold at Level 5, we continue to be available for support to received more calls for help nationally Number: 475518 CHY Number:19275 anyone who needs it. If you are feeling isolated orCRO lonely, than at any other time in its history and groups and workshops for all Vita House Services areby phone or on Charity Reg.continue No.: 20075385 support will if you are strugglingWhile with parenting orRemote any other issue, ers tomthe suspended, counselling and support are still available, groups and for all Vita House Services are centre at th cus my still managed to provide help is testi- if you just need a currently g all those who do not wish to visit safe spaceWhile to chat, please getworkshops in touch. hin Wis currently suspended, counselling support are still available, call 090 66 25898 for moreand information as mony to the dedication of its volunteers istm Chr ppy Ha y call 090 66 25898 for more information ver a Contact us at info@vitahouse.org and staff and the incredible support of Contact us at familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org CRO Number: 475518 CHY Number:19275 or 090 66 28621 for the hes wis090 t or besNumber:19275 and While groups and workshops for all Vita House are 66 25898 CRO Number: 475518 CHY Services Charity Reg. No.: 20075385 the Irish public. currently suspended, counselling and support are20075385 still available, Charity Reg. No.: fro r New Yea m You can donate online at svp.ie, by call 090 66 25898 for more information phone on 0818-17676, or by cheque CRO Number: 475518 CHY Number:19275 Sinead O’Grady to SVP, West Region, Ozanam House, Charity Reg. No.: 20075385 St. Augustine’s St, Galway (cheques made payable to Society of St. Vincent South Roscommon Family Resource Cent de Paul West Region). Otherwise, keep The Hair Boutique Work continues behind closed doors at Sou an eye out for special blue envelopes 2 Church St. Roscommon Roscommon FRC. that will be in newspapers, churches Tel: 087 348 9922 and delivered to homes throughout theWhile groups and workshops for all Vita House Services are While our groups and workshops have had to b Email: sineadogrady2@gmail.com currently suspended, counselling and support are still available, country. hold at Level 5, we continue to be available for s

Vita House

call 090 66 25898 for more information

anyone who needs it. If you are feeling isolated o struggling with parenting or any oth if you just need a safe space to chat, please get i

CRO Number: 475518 CHY Number:19275 if you are Charity Reg. No.: 20075385

Academy House, Goff Street, Co. Roscommon, F42 XH51 Telephone: 090 6628347 Email: info@rachelmckennaaccountants.ie

McKenna Accountants offer a comprehensive range of professional accountancy services. We focus on our clients’ needs and strive on providing a high quality, customer-focused service to all of our clients.

While groups and workshops for all Vita House Ser currently suspended, counselling and support are stil call 090 66 25898 for more information

TOP: Pictured is Roscommon Men’s Group’s model train set.

CROGriffin Number: 475518in the CHY Number:19275 LEFT: Model train enthusiasts Paul Coyle and Pat pictured Charity Reg. No.: 20075385 Harrison Centre, Roscommon, on Sunday for the Roscommon Men’s Group Model Train Show. Pic: Mick McCormack

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Where is ROSS THE ELF? Win €100 voucher for Gleesons, Roscommon! Over the next four weeks, the Roscommon People’s friendly elf – Ross – will be embarking on a tour of the county! We’re asking readers to try and identify where he is each week! Readers will have a chance to win a prize... every week!

See our Facebook page to enter this great competition! This week’s prize: A €100 voucher to spend at Gleesons, Roscommon Kindly sponsored by Gleesons, Roscommon

The winner of last week’s competition was Fiona Tiernan. Congratulations, Fiona! You will receive a prize of a €100 Shopping Voucher from Duffy’s Supervalu, Ballaghaderreen

Stepping in for Santa Claus!

James Cooke still remembers the day his father, James Snr., stepped in to help Santa Claus in Roscommon town… “I remember one Christmas back when I was a teenager and Santa Claus was due to visit what was then known as ‘the clubhouse’ beside the Sacred Heart Church in Roscommon town. “Unfortunately, Santa had to delay his visit due to an emergency in The North Pole, but my father James Snr. agreed to step in and became one of his helpers just for one day. “My father was always a great lover of Christmas and always got on really well with children so he was only too happy to help Santa out that day. “It was a very proud day for our family, including myself and my sister Jackie. It was great to see the joy in all the faces of the children as they

queued up to meet our Santa Claus. It was all the kids from the locality and they each received a little gift after meeting Santa’s helper. “Christmas was always big in our house…the tree had to go up on December 8th not before then or after and we always had relatives visiting from the UK. The Galtee rashers and sausages came out on Christmas morning and dad, who was on holidays from the factory, would always have the fire lit. “He absolutely loved his day as Santa Claus and he still talked about it in later years. It was one of his fondest memories and something that has always stayed with us”.

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year from

Speciality Coffee Abbey House, Abbey St, Ballypheasan, Roscommon town, F42 Y098. Telephone: (090) 663 4801 Open from 8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays

The Peppermill RESTAURANT Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

Tel. 090 6634980 or Sean 087 9074637

•

E. sean.peppermill@gmail.com OPEN 6 DAYS:

Monday - Saturday 9am – 4pm Closed Sunday – Outdoor catering specialists – Thank you for all your support throughout the year. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year

Christmas at

Hynes’ Pharmacy

Castle Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 34147

Gift Baskets made-to-order Gift Vouchers (no expiry date) Wishing all our customers a wonderful Christmas and thank you for your support during the year.

We stock all the TOP BRANDS Michael and Fintan Kilroe pictured with their mother Pat and Santa Claus, James Cooke Snr. (RIP) in Roscommon town in the 1970s. Picture courtesy of James Cooke.

Shop online @ www.hynespharmacy.ie

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Go, go Gadget gift ideas!

McNeill’s

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

C hristmas People

with Alannah Somers and Kirsten Dunican

FOODSTORE

Abbey Street, Roscommon

Ahead of the busy Christmas shopping period, Elliot Grealy takes a look at some nifty gift ideas for the gadget lover in your life…

Tel.: 090 66 26481 Come and get your Lotto

Apple Watch Series 7 (€429) Apple have released their brand new Apple Watch just in time for Christmas. The watch has a number of new features including a 20 per cent increase in screen size to optimise viewing. It also charges a lot faster and the battery life has increased to 18 hours. This is a perfect gift for those who love their fitness or just like to answer their calls and texts without having to use their phone!

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for all your support in 2021

Crystal Clear • Soft wash Red+Green Algae removal • Power Washing Driveway/footpaths • Window Cleaning • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Apple Airpods 3rd Generation (€199) Apple have also released the third version of their Airpods. Previous models have been very popular worldwide and so this Christmas, Apple have introduced a new model to the collection. They are a mix between the Airpods Pro and the original Airpods model. Although they don’t feature noise cancellation, they are now water resistant and last up to 8 hours, which is two hours more than the more expensive Airpods Pro.

Google Nest Mini (€24.99) Just like the original Mini, the Google Nest Mini is compact, discreet, and has the very helpful Google Assistant built in. This time round, the Nest Mini has bigger, richer sound with 2x stronger bass and improved voice recognition. The Google Nest Mini can be asked anything and will respond in seconds. Catch up with the latest news, weather forecast or listen to your favourite music!

CANON PIXMA TS3355 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer (€49.99) With so many laptops and PCs on the market, a wireless printer is a great accessory. This particular model connects via Wi-Fi, which makes it as easy as can be to print whatever you like. It is most suited to students who may need to print off notes or other documents to help with their studies. There are many different models out there on the market but this one is very good for its price.

Tel. 086 4087492 or 086 3645037 You Call – we clean it all!

Kirsten and Alannah

Tell us a bit about yourself… Alannah: I managed to get away with not doing the traditional Leaving Certificate! I repeated fifth year and then got the first Covid-19 predicted Leaving Cert grades. I went on to do a PLC course in Moate Business College and now I’m the manager at District Speciality Coffee in Roscommon town. How will you be celebrating Christmas this year? Kirsten: I will be celebrating at home with my family this year. We usually spend time cooking, watching mov-

ies and playing with our dogs! One Christmas present you’ll always remember? Kirsten: I’ll always remember getting a Tweety Bird and Sylvester blow-up couch when I was three-years-old! All I want for Christmas this year is… Alannah: My two front teeth! Alannah Somers (Manager) and Kirsten Dunican (Assistant Manager) work together at the popular District Speciality Coffee on Abbey Street in Roscommon town.

Alannah Somers recommends 5 festive refreshments… 1. Hot Chocolate with all the fixings 2. Spiced Chai Latte 3. Gingerbread Cappuchino 4. Irish Coffee 5. Hot Toddy

*Roscommon Community College transition year student Elliot Grealy recently completed work experience with the Roscommon People.

St. Alban Place, The Square Roscommon F42 PW28 Tel. 090 66 25939 / 6630485. Fax: 090 66 27573 Email: law@charlow.ie

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year from all at

Hollytree Pub Abbey Street, Roscommon Town

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year. Thank you for your support.

Naughton Farm Machinery Ballyboughan Business Park, Racecourse Road, Roscommon Tel. 090 6627645

BW Men’s Chunky Knit Led Torch Hat (€20) A perfect gift for those who love to stretch the legs on those cold winter nights! Whether you’re out for a walk in Mote Park, or even on a cycle around town, this hat will lead you in the right direction. It will also keep you safe on the roads as darkness falls that bit earlier in these winter months.

We wish everybody a Blessed, Peaceful, Restful and Enjoyable Christmas and New Year - Conleth, Elianna, Rian, Patricia and The Harlow Family

Sales • Service • Parts

Broadcasting on 94.6 FM & online http://rosfm.ie - from 9AM Monday-Friday Available for sponsorship of programmes and advertising at keen rates.

RosFM 94.6 Community Radio, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town F42 AX24 Tel: 090 66 28161 Text/WhatsApp: +353 (0)83 859 9748 Email: info@rosfm.ie Facebook: facebook.com/RosFMRadio Twitter: twitter.com/rosfmradio1

Main Kuhn, Sip, Sulky, Kverneland, NC & Major Main Dealer DAFM Approved Sprayer Testing Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year. Thank you for your support.

Eddie Naughton Agri Supplies Athlone Road, Roscommon. Tel. 090 - 66 25127 FEEDS - FERTILIZER SEEDS – SPRAYS * Bulk Fertilizer Spreading Available *

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Strokestown

Christmas Market hailed a festive success!

< DAN DOONER

Last weekend’s Christmas Market, which saw large crowds descend on the town over three nights, has been hailed as a success by the Strokestown Town Team Committee. In a statement to the Roscommon People this week, the committee thanked those involved for helping to spread some much-needed Christmas cheer. “The Christmas Market Committee of Strokestown Town Team welcomed a large crowd over three nights last weekend starting with the switching on of our Christmas lights on Friday night last. “Our hard-working volunteers and those who attending the event helped to spread some festive cheer after what has been a long and difficult year. We can now face into 2022 with renewed hope in our hearts. “Strokestown experienced a weekend full of entertainment including an amazing line-up of local bands and musicians as well as on-street entertainers. We also had our carnival carousel, and a fantastic display from the local emergency services as well as two touching outdoor Christmas movies. “We were delighted to welcome a vast array of vendors from both near and far as well as transition year students from Scoil Mhuire who hosted their own market village, selling everything from baked goods, Christmas decorations, and jewellery. “Our food vendors, offering everything from crepes, waffles, burgers and pizzas to delicious hot chocolates and mulled wine, ensured everyone was kept well fed and warm throughout the weekend! “None of this could have happened of course without the help and assistance of the many residents and business owners on Bawn Street. We would like to offer a huge thank you to them for

Season’s Greetings from

Elphin Street, Strokestown • Tel: 071 9634 222 • Mob: 087 7793 455

Beautiful Christmas Arrangements & Gifts Now In Stock

Happy Christmas to all my customers and thank you for your support in 2021 Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from Pictured enjoying all the fun at Strokestown Christmas Market last weekend. Picture: Mick McCormack.

their continued support and cooperation, without which it would not be possible to bring this event to the community. “The Strokestown Town Team committee recognizes now more than ever in these challenging times that community matters. “We would also like to acknowledge Roscommon County Council and the Department of Tourism for funding which helped the Town Team to host this fantastic event. “Thank you also to Strokestown GAA, the local Women’s Shed, Strokestown Community Centre and Roscommon Sports and Classic Car Club for the use of their equipment”.

The committee also acknowledged the Strokestown Lights committee, which it said, had “worked through wind and rain” to help prepare the town for last weekend’s event. “Due to the community’s generosity, we have been able to add to the lights this year, further enhancing the wonderful Christmas show,” the committee added. “Finally, a huge thank you to the many volunteers who gave up their free time to help set up the marquee, chalets, gazebos, and our Christmas tree. “Please stay and shop local this year and support the many wonderful businesses and services on our doorstep”.

Cut N Edge Hair Design

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

086 1649570 Follow us on Facebook

Season’s Greetings from

Jazel HAIR CARE

Church Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Telephone:

071 9634750 Seamus would like to thank everyone for their business throughout the year. Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

Seamus Croghan

Groundwork and Concrete Specialist SPECIALISING IN THE FOLLOWING

l Civil Engineering l Site Clearance & Site Layout l Raft and Strip Foundations

l Pipework and Septic Tank insulation to E.P.A. standards. l Brick & Block paving and Kerbing

086 8720720

At Strokestown Christmas Market! Strokestown Christmas Market proved to be a festive success story last weekend as visitors braved the cold to enjoy live entertainment, food stalls and the Strokestown Christmas lights. Pics: Mick McCormack

P: email: seamuscroghan58@hotmail.com

Free Quotations and Advice offered

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Strokestown

Seven seasonal, yet sustainable Christmas hacks! < MIRIAM KERINS

It’s beginning to look a lot like… last Christmas, as in, once again, we’re being asked to ‘pull together’ and curb our movements as well as

our merriment with restrictions being put in place from December 7th right through until January 9th. Bah humbug! Therefore, as we’re busy cutting back on our excessive socialising, it

Thank you for your support in 2021 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Tom Crosby Strokestown/Boyle Electoral Area MOBILE

086 6005530 www.tomcrosby.ie

facebook.com/ tomcrosby twitter.com/cllrtomcrosby

Silke Cut Hair Fashions

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Proprietor: Breege Silke

For appointment contact: 071-9633241 Thank you for your support in 2021 Looking forward to a Healthier and Happier 2022

might also be a good time to take a long, hard look at some of the other festive excesses we tend to engage in at this time of year. For example, bulk buying food and wasting it, splashing out on unnecessarily expensive gifts and running up a massive energy bill to name but a few. All of these are examples of how Christmas, although a magical time, can take its toll on our environment; and on our bank balances. With that in mind, while I’m no tree hugger, I’d like to share my own top tips for having an ecofriendly, sustainable and upcycled Christmas! Oh Christmas tree: I love a real tree, always favouring it over an artificial one. Real trees are not just environmentally friendly, as in, you can pot them or plant them in the garden after Christmas to give them an extended life; but a real tree will give off a beautiful pine-y aroma; something which I’ve always associated with the spirit of the festive season. There’s nothing I love more than receiving that first Christmas card through the door! However, while I’m not saying you shouldn’t send cards this year; I would advise that, instead of throwing last year’s in the bin to make room for new ones,

A very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for your support in 2021 from

Strokestown, Co Roscommon Specialists in the fabrication and erection of industrial and farm buildings CE Certification to EN1090-1 FPC-EX.C.2

P h o n e 0 7 1 9 6 3 3 11 9 F a x 0 7 1 9 6 3 3 9 0 0 w w w. r e g a n s t r u c t u r a l s t e e l . c o m Email: info@reganstructuralsteel.com

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank your support in 2021 from “It’s Our Service That Set Us Apart” 41 years of producing and supplying Ireland’s purest ground limestone throughout the entire Midlands, West and Northwest.

LARAGAN LIME

071 9630000 www.hanlygroup.com 3 Dept of Agri Certified 3 Licenced Seller 3 Neutralising Value 98% 3 Network of Lime Spreaders

Strokestown has been illuminated ahead of the busy Christmas period. Pic: McCormack

you could instead recycle them, turning them into gift tags to attach to your presents. If you’re anyway handy, why not consider giving that eco-friendly family member or neighbour a bespoke, thoughtful, homemade gift? Roscommon’s landscape is dotted with art and craft shops, Christmas fairs, farmer’s markets and local family-run businesses, all selling unique and quirky luxurious items, perfect for that ethical, yet renewable pressie. For that animal lover in your life, why not donate to a local animal welfare/rescue charity in their name; that way, you’re really giving them a meaningful gift close to their heart. Before you shop for festive food,

why not make a list…and check it twice to ensure you really do need every item on it. Do try to steer clear of pressure-buying traditional festive fayre that nobody likes. You know you’ll only throw it away a week later. When you do go shopping, shop local, they always have the freshest veggies and the best Christmas cakes, mince pies and puddings etc., With food in mind, this week, make space in your freezer for any leftovers that you can use again. Better still, get creative and whip them up into soups, stews, sandwiches or curries. Another idea would be to offer your guests a ‘doggy bag’ to take home with them and freeze for later.

A very Happy Christmas and New Year from

The Hub Community Cafe & Hub of Treasure Shop Thank you all for your support and looking forward to seeing you in our new premises in 2022

Strokestown

Tel.: 087 9308 945 A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank your support in 2021 from Josephine, Gary and staff

Dead & Worn -Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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

Strokestown

Christmas People

Thank you for your support in 2021 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Councillor JOE MURPHY

with

Peter Bennett Tell us a bit about yourself… My name is Peter Bennett. I’m from Whitehall, Tarmonbarry in County Roscommon and I am 24-years-old. I have three brothers. I attend Midway Day Service in Strokestown five days a week. Everyday we do different activities like swimming, comedy club and even film making courses. I recently started a job in Boyle with the tennis club. How will you spend Christmas 2021? I will spend Christmas 2021 with my family. I have a young nephew called Eddie so this Christmas will be very exciting. I am really looking forward to Christmas dinner! One Christmas/

Cathaoirleach Roscommon County Council

Telephone:

0861052197

Thank you for all your custom during the year. Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from all at

Skin 22 Aesthetics

Peter Bennett pictured with his nephew, Eddie.

Winter Wonderland! Pictured at the Strokestown Christmas Market on Sunday last. Pic: Mick McCormack

Christmas present you’ll never forget. Probably the Christmas I received my tablet…it’s great for playing games!

Keep it Strokestown this Christmas!

All I want for Christmas 2021 is... Health and happiness…and maybe a surprise!

The local Town Team is urging shoppers to keep it local and stick to Strokestown for Christmas shopping this festive season. With a variety of shops and services located conveniently on your doorstep and the bright Christmas lights creating a real Christmas buzz, Strokestown is the place to be this year!

McHugh’s

Gift Shop Wishing all our customers and friends a Happy Christmas and Health and Happiness for the New Year. Thank you for your continued support.

Please give to Strokestown SVP Due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, the Strokestown St. Vincent de Paul Conference will be unable to hold its annual church gate collection this year. Donation envelopes are still available in all churches and can be returned to the local presbytery. Anyone who wishes to contact the local St. Vincent de Paul for assistance can do so at 086-1013537.

Open Sunday 19th December

Phone: 071 96 33010 GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and New Year and thank you for your support in 2021

All telephone and email queries will be dealt with as usual during our regular opening hours of 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday

Stay Safe and Take Care

TELEPHONE: 0719633174 Email: info@mannioninsurance.ie Bawn St, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Christmas Karaoke in Strokestown!

ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

TELEPHONE: (071) 96 34 825

BUSINESS HOURS: • CLOSED MONDAY; • TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 10.00AM6.00PM; • THURSDAY 10.00 AM - 8.00PM • FRIDAY 10.00 AM - 7.00PM • SATURDAY 9.30AM - 5 PM. OUT OF HOURS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

The Sportsman’s Inn will host a Christmas Karaoke Night in Strokestown on Saturday, December 18th from 9 pm. Those attending are reminded to wear a Christmas jumper on the night!

Thank you for all your custom during the year. Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from all at the

Percy French Hotel Strokestown • 071 - 9633300

FOOD S E RV E D ALL DAY

Food served daily from 9am to 8pm Looking forward to seeing you over the Christmas

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

FarmingPeople -ADVERTORIAL

Teagasc highlight the benefits of forests

‘Planting and Managing New Forests’ webinar next Monday (13th) < BY NOEL KENNEDY (TEAGASC FORESTRY ADVISOR, ROSCOMMON)

Now more than ever, individuals and society are questioning ‘the meaning of life’ and seeking answers. Now, new native woodland in Roscommon is offering a reconnection with nature. In the quiet, gently rolling limestone fields of south Roscommon, Hillside Holistic Farm offers a helping hand to people looking for guidance towards wellbeing and fulfilment. Since 2004, the farm has been run as an organic beef farm and holistic centre by Sean and Helen Butler. Described as “a unique family farm with a holistic approach to farming and life”, the synergy between farm, recently planted native woodland, holistic healing, and life mentoring, is palpable. Sean describes himself as an energy healer and organic farmer, with a mission “to help people to find peace

with themselves”, and is the fifth generation of the Butler family to work the land. Helen is not from a farming background, and “brings a different type of thinking” to the enterprise. Concerned by increasing animal health issues and dependence on medicines in conventional intensive farming, the Butlers looked for a more natural approach. In 2001, they began a two-year conversion to an organic system that created a less stressful environment for the animals and produced healthier meat. Unexpectedly, the move to organics also brought welcome health and lifestyle benefits for Sean and Helen. Wishing to share these positive health and lifestyle benefits with others, they also developed their interests in alternative therapies. Today, Hillside Holistic Farm is a working organic farm and a recognised hub for holistic healing, youth and project mentoring and social farming. With a ded-

icated therapy room, which can be used by groups and therapists, the farm itself provides a calming backdrop and unique opportunity to re-connect with nature. Sean has long harboured a desire to plant a broadleaf forest to complement the farm environment and offer additional therapeutic benefits. In addition to the many positives for biodiversity and water quality, he and Helen also noted wider wellbeing benefits of spending time with trees. In 2019, the Butlers dedicated eleven hectares to planting a new native woodland. To accommodate the new trees, they made the difficult decision to get out of sheep and concentrate on the suckler herd. Liaising with a registered forester from Western Forestry Co-Op, a Native Woodland Establishment (NWS) grant application was submitted in 2019. A grant approval was issued by DAFM in early 2021

with planting completed in March - during National Tree Week! The Butlers’ new native woodland has three main species – pedunculate oak, Downey birch and hazel – all supporting a rich biodiversity as they grow. Other minor species include wild cherry, hawthorn, holly and scots pine – an iconic native conifer. The woodland was planted and will be maintained by the Western Forestry Co-Op until the trees are established and the annual forestry premium will yield €7,500 for fifteen years. All grass control is manual and no herbicides will be used to establish the trees. The Butlers already see many opportunities for the new woodland, not least the therapeutic potential for energy healing and facilitating social farming initiatives with vulnerable groups. Of particular interest is the Japanese concept of Shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing”, which allows

Sean Butler (Hillside Holistic Farm, Brideswell) pictured in his newly planted native woodland with Noel Kennedy (Teagasc Forestry Development Officer).

people to take time out, slow down and connect with nature. Hillside Holistic Farm also facilitates social farming, which Sean says “has given us the opportunity to share the benefits of farm life with others”. As we slowly recover from the impacts of the pandemic, the unique

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skills, services and facilities offered by Hillside Holistic Farm maybe sought after as never before. More information on Hillside Holistic Farm is available at hillsideholisticfarm. ie. To learn more about planting Native Woodlands and other forestry planting options go to teagasc.ie/forestry or contact

Noel Kennedy (Teagasc Forestry Advisor, Roscommon) on 087-9090504, or Liam Kelly (Teagasc Forestry Advisor, Longford) on 087-9090495. Noel and Liam will be holding a webinar on December 6th at 8 pm on Zoom, titled ‘Planting and Managing New Forests’. Register at bit.ly/ RNLDzoom.

Castlerea MART WATCH Good numbers presented for sale this week with trade and prices holding extremely well especially for the quality lots on offer as we enter the final weeks of trading. The heifer ring, with similar numbers on offer, saw prices peak at €2.85 per kilo with a good clearance taking place. In the weanling rings, the bulls peaked at €3.56 a kilo while the weanling heifers peaked at €3.40 a kilo with strong demand from farmers this week. The dry cow trade remains firm with lots making up to €1,870. The runners reported an excellent clearance with farmers and agents anxious for lots this week. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,050 to €1,520 with springers making from €880 to €1,640. Young calves made from €20 to €200 with runners making from €340 to €750 for continental types. There were 200 bullocks on offer at our recent sale with an excellent clearance taking place quality stores peaked at €2.97 a kilo while the heavier lots made up to €1,720. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday 9th) with our weekly sale of heifers, cows,

calves, runners, and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am. Sample prices for heifers: Lm 415kgs €1160, Ch 425kgs €1130, Lm 410kgs €1070, Lm 490kgs €1400, AA 455kgs €1170, Lm 440kgs €1130, Lm 610kgs €1660, Lm 650kgs €1560, Lm 580kgs €1480, Ch 570kgs €1450, AA 625kgs €1430. Dry cows: BBx 830kgs €1870, Ch 825kgs €1830, Sim 850kgs €1830, Lm 785kgs €1730, Lm 750kgs €1700, Sh 655kgs €1310, Fr 610kgs €860, Hex 560kgs €830. Weanling bulls: Chx 275kgs €870, Ch 250kgs €860, AA 295kgs €800, Sim 285kgs €800, Lm 345kgs €1150, Lm 320kgs €1140, Ch 385kgs €1080, Lm 315kgs €1070. Weanling heifers: Lmx 285kgs €890, Ch 250kgs €850, Ch 255kgs €840, Ch 245kgs €800, Ch 330kgs €1100, Lm 345kgs €1000, Ch 310kgs €870, Ch 310kgs €840. Bullocks: Ch 485kgs €1340, Lm 440kgs €1310, AA 460kgs €1280, Ch 528kgs €1430, AA 565kgs €1460, Ch 605kgs €1470, Ch 650kgs €1720, AA 700kgs €1600, Ch 660kgs €1580.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

FarmingPeople

ICMSA: Science not sentiment must decide animal transport regulations

The President of ICMSA, Pat McCormack.

Commenting on the report produced by the ANIT Committee in the European Parliament, the President of ICMSA said that while respecting the right of the Committee to set out its view on animal transport, it is essential that decisions taken in relation to animal transport legislation have a strong scientific basis and are not based on sentiment or pre-defined political views “Farmers accept the need for strong animal welfare legislation, but that will have to be based on science and veterinary advice. We’re not going to accept people with pre-defined views and with little or no understanding of farming proposing legislation based

on sentiment, not science, that will seriously and negatively impact Irish farmers here in the only foodproducing island in the EU,” said Mr. McCormack. The ICMSA President pointed out that animal transport is already “hugely regulated and the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine places a very strong emphasis on compliance”. He also said that live exporters have invested heavily in state-of-the-art facilities with a strong emphasis on animal welfare and operate very professional businesses to a high standard. Live exports were hugely important to Irish farmers and played a

central role in providing competition for cattle. It was supremely important that Ireland was not disadvantaged given our off-shore position relative to our main markets in the EU. “The reality is that some members of the ANIT Committee joined the Committee with a pre-defined view and with the intention of stopping live exports. We are not convinced that they even want to hear scientific evidence – much less take it into consideration. We are even less convinced that they understand the potential consequences of their proposals for the trade in food products. “As its stands, it is likely that the EU Commission will bring forward

IFA: Revised TAMS costings must be implemented without delay IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has said that it’s unacceptable that the revised costing won’t be available to farmers who apply to Tranche 25 of TAMS in January. At a recent Charter of Rights meeting, the Department of Agriculture confirmed to IFA that the review of the TAMS reference costs for grant-aided work will be finalised by early next week. However, it’s unlikely the revised costings will be implemented for Tranche 25, which is due to open for applications from January 15th to April 8th 2022. “If the revised costings are not implemented, farmers will be forced to work with reference costs which were compiled nearly a year ago, in March 2021,” Mr. Biggins said. “They are completely out of date due to the extremely high level of price inflation of steel, timber and other building materials. Failure to adopt the updated reference costs will place these

farmers at a significant financial disadvantage. “In 2021, and especially in the last six months, we have witnessed an unprecedented rise in inflation, meaning the price of building materials such as steel and timber has soared. The current costings, which were updated in March, are completely out of line with the price of materials today, making it impossible for farmers to begin their projects”. The IFA Rural Development Chairman said the impact of a delay in updating reference costs means that farmers will also not receive an accurate rate of grant that is reflective of the actual cost of investment incurred. “I’m calling on the Minister of Agriculture Charlie McConalogue to ensure that the revised reference costs, which are due to be completed by the Department of Agriculture next week, are implemented before Tranche 25 is opened for applications”.

Strategic Plan, ILDN Chairman Jim Finn said: “We are calling for the allocation of a sustainable minimum of €389 million (€77.8 million annual average) for the LEADER Programme 2023-2027 to drive ‘bottom-up, community-led’ investment to create and maintain enterprise in rural Ireland, to enhance the rural environment and support

Lecarrow Vintage Run

Pictured at the recent St. John’s Lecarrow Vintage Run which raised €2,000 for the Western Alzheimer’s Association.

IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins

ILDN call for sustainable LEADER Budget and a reversal of cuts to rural funding Irish Local Development Network (ILDN) representing Ireland’s LEADER providers have called for a reversal to successive cuts to Rural Development funding under the LEADER Programme since 2007. Commenting ahead of the closure of the Department of Agriculture Food & Marine’s Public Consultation on the draft CAP

proposals will in 2023 and that body, together with the EU Council and EU Parliament, have to make any decision based on the science and the full economic and agricultural consequences of their proposal – both predictable and unintended,” he said. The ICMSA President said that Ireland has a strong record on live exports and the actions of a few in other EU countries should not lead to unfair and unscientific regulation being imposed on Ireland. He said that cattle can be traded safely within defined regulations and this should be the objective of the EU when these new regulation are examined, drafted and proposed.

climate change mitigation initiatives in rural communities. The proposed Budget of €36 million per year to 2027 down from €50 million annually from 2016 to 2020 comes as a major blow to Rural Communities”. Mr. Finn continued “Representing 1.8% of Ireland’s total CAP Budget, an indicative Budget of €180 million has been

allocated for LEADER 2023-2027. “The Budget for the 2007-2013 Programme stood at €425 million (€85 million annual average) with the successor Programme that operated from mid-2016 to 2020 reduced to €250 million (€50 million annual average). This marks a significant downgrading of the LEADER Programme

and Rural investment over successive programming periods. “The continued erosion of the LEADER Budget will deprive rural communities of critical capacity building supports and funding for vital enterprise, tourism, and community-led development (more than 5,000 projects supported in the most recent Programme period)”.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

PropertyPeople

PSRA Licence No: 003201

NEW TO THE MARKET

Carrownurlar, Ballyforan, Co. Galway H53 FW30 Quality 4 Bedroom Bungalow situated in a quiet countryside area located one mile from Four Roads Village and twelve miles each from the towns of Athlone, Roscommon and Ballinasloe. Situated on a landscaped three quarter acre site, this fine property is finished to a high standard by its present owners. Accommodation comprises of 4 large Bedrooms, (master en-Suite), Sitting Room, Kitchen, Dining Room with solid fuel stove, Utility and family Bathroom. Outside Tarmac Drives and Landscaped Grounds with a wide variety of Shrubs and Trees.

Price Region: € 220,000 BER Rating: D1

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NEW TO THE MARKET

8 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesborough, Co. Longford N39 WR13 Superb family home presented for sale in excellent condition on the outer leaf of this established development. Located within walking distance to all town amenities including schools, shops, marinas etc., Lanesboro has become a very popular area to reside being only 20 minutes to Longford Town center and 30 minutes to Athlone Town center. Accommodation consists of entrance porch, reception hallway with WC off, open plan kitchen/ dining room with patio door to large rear garden and french doors to sitting room, utility with door to side garden. Upstairs, 3 large bedrooms master ensuite and family bathroom. Viewing advised by the Auctioneers. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

The Walk, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 HP93 Superb 4 bed detached residence on a large landscaped site situated on the Walk Road within walking distance to all town amenities. This property is furnished to the highest specification with exceptional finish throughout and comprises entrance hallway, sitting room, living area, open plan kitchen dining room and large utility with w.c. off. First floor, 4 large bedrooms master ensuite and family bathroom. Large mature grounds with wide variety of shrubs and plants together with mature hedging and trees. Viewing strictly by prior appointment.

Price Region: € 315,000 BER Rating: C3

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NEW TO THE MARKET

Carrigans Park, Donamon, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 AH51

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

New to the market this week with Oates Auctioneers are approximately five acres of top-quality lands at Emlagh, Fuerty, Roscommon. The lands offer generous road frontage and site potential – subject to planning permission being granted. Standing on the lands is a quality building, comprising of ten stables, a tack room, and a storage

area. The property is located in a quiet country setting, approximately two miles from the picturesque village of Castlecoote, and seven miles from Roscommon town centre. The price region for this property is €125,000. For more information, contact Oates Auctioneers on 090-6627878, email info@oates.ie, or visit oates.ie.

RE/MAX Team Earley close sale of Cloverhill farm

Price Region: € 150,000 BER Rating: C3

Charming 4 bedroom bungalow presented for sale in excellent condition on a large landscaped site with exceptional views of the surrounding countryside. Located adjacent to Donamon Castle on the banks of the River Suck famed for its excellent fishing and boating, this residence is located 10 minutes from Roscommon Town Centre. Accommodation consists of entrance hallway, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom and utility/sunroom to rear. Outside, large site area with tarmac drives and excellent gardens with a wide array of shrubs and plants together with vegetable garden and 3 large outbuildings. Viewing highly recommended

New to the market: Five acres with ten stables

Price Region: € 115,000 BER Rating: G

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

This week, RE/MAX Team Earley are pleased to advise that they have closed the sale of a prime farm of lands, containing approximately 30.81 acres located at Lisagallon, Cloverhill. Situated adjacent to Roscommon Town (just off the main N60 Roscommon/Castlerea route), this is a most attractive farm of top-quality lands, set out in one manageable lot. The lands are in permanent grass and are located in a renowned farming district. We are now seeking similar sized farms in all areas for disappointed underbidders. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, or log onto teamearley.ie. Contact auctioneer Cormac directly on 086-3519492.

RE/MAX Team Earley seeking properties for Dubai Convention RE/MAX Team Earley are planning to showcase local, one-off properties at RE/MAX’s Dubai Convention in January. This week, Cormac Sheehy (MD of RE/MAX Team Earley, with offices in Athlone, Roscommon, Galway and Limerick) is seeking commercial and residential properties to bring to the convention to sell. There has been a strong growth in the resident Irish community in the UAE in recent years and there are now over 10,000 Irish citizens of-

ficially resident in the Emirates. A large portion of them would love to dip their toes back into the Irish property market, and where better to do it than at the first-ever property exhibition in the UAE. RE/MAX has over 123,000 agents in nearly 100 countries, a greater worldwide presence than any other real estate brand and Cormac hopes to capitalise on this vast network to achieve the best price for all vendors.

Cormac said that he is excited to make the trip away to fly the Irish flag (subject to Covid restrictions). There are some cracking properties already on the books, and hopefully by the time the convention rolls around, many more properties. If you are looking to sell a property in 2022, maybe this is the way to get it moving. Get in touch with Cormac by phoning 086-3519492, or emailing cormacsheehy@remax.ie, or contact the office on 090-6626579.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

PropertyPeople Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 Email: teamearley@remax.ie Licence No. Web: www.teamearley.ie PSRA004420

NEW TO THE MARKET 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

COGGLEBEG, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON F42 WR63

PROPERTIES WANTED URGENTLY

AMV: €245,000

Cormac Sheehy

An immaculate 4 Bed Bungalow of approx. 1840 sq ft standing on a mature elevated site area of approx. 1.2 acres of landscaped gardens with beautiful views of the countryside. The accommodation comprises briefly of: Hallway, Sitting room, Living room. Kitchen, 4 large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, utility and boot room, Conservatory set to Solid Timber flooring throughout and tiles in kitchen and Utility areas. OFCH This home is both private and quiet as well as being within touching distance of both towns.

Cathal Meares

FOLLOWING ON FROM A NUMBER OF SALES PROPERTIES REQUIRED FOR DISAPPOINTED UNDERBIDDERS – IN ALL AREAS

The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE

NEW TO THE MARKET

COMMERCIAL PREMISES OF APPROX 6,000 SQ FT FORMERLY KNOWN AS

‘MIDAS NITE CLUB’ BALLYHAUNIS TOWN

4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE

LOCATED AT

MOUNT PLEASANT, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 WR63

AMV: €150,000 A great opportunity to purchase a commercial unit of approx. 6,000 sq. ft in the heart of Ballyhaunis Town and formally known as Midas Nite Club. Located adjacent to active businesses including; Midwest Radio & Dawn Meats. A commercial space on approx. 0.27 acres. Adjacent to thriving businesses on either side of this property offering a high level of exposure to the public on a busy street in Ballyhaunis town. Also, there is an opportunity to purchase the adjoining site on approx. 0.31 acres. This property offers huge potential for use, centrally located in the thriving town of Ballyhaunis, which benefits from a large passing trade and growing population in the town and surrounding areas.

The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

A beautiful 4 bed bungalow on the outskirts of Strokestown. Set on a mature site area of 0.86 of an acre, this home is in turnkey condition. The accommodation comprises briefly of four large double bedrooms, a lovely modern kitchen/diner, sitting room and an ample utility. Located 15km from Roscommon and 4km from Strokestown on the Four-Mile-House Road. This home is both private and quiet as well as being within close distance of both towns.

The Auctioneer now invites viewings – by appointment only.

WE OFFER A COMPREHENSIVE FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL PRE-MARKET ANALYSIS OF ALL PROPERTIES TOGETHER WITH AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIRTUAL TOUR TECHNOLOGY IN ALL MARKETING.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Business

Roscommon woman named as Ireland’s Inspirational Hero in Gala Retail Awards Following a nationwide search to uncover Ireland’s most inspirational people, Katie Heneghan from Ballyforan is celebrating after being named an Inspirational Hero in the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards. Established to shine a light on those individuals who make Ireland a better place with their selfless acts and inspirational deeds. Katie was diagnosed with a very rare condition and had to travel to Germany for life-saving surgery. Despite her ill health, she was determined to live a normal life. She won Scór na nÓg All-Ireland titles

for storytelling and an All-Ireland U-16 Camogie title with Roscommon. She also wrote an award winning booklet for siblings of special needs, completed the Dermot Early Leadership Award and has continued with school work despite being very ill. Inspirational people from across Ireland were nominated for the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards, with 26 inspirational county heroes being named from the hundreds of entries received. Commenting on the quality of the entries, Gary Desmond, CEO

of Gala Retail comments: “Now in their third year, the Inspiration Awards pay homage to people from all across Ireland who play their part creating a better country for us all. Operating in communities throughout Ireland, Gala Retailers have seen first-hand some of the great work that people have been doing and we are proud to have been able to recognise some of these inspirational individuals. “We were overwhelmed by the level of nominations we received and Katie along with the fellow inspirational heroes are true examples of people who are making

Ireland a better place for us all”. 2021 marks the third year of the Gala Retail Inspiration Awards created as a way of celebrating the selfless acts and inspirational deeds of people in Ireland who are making the country a better place. Marian Mattimoe from Mayo was named as Overall Inspirational Person at the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards. Gala Retail has gifted €26,000 of prizes to the winners with the 26 county winners being awarded with €1,000 hotel getaways across Ireland. For further information, see www.gala.ie.

Ballyforan woman, Katie Heneghan, has been named one of Ireland’s Inspirational Heroes at the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards.

73% say eating out was their most missed social activity as a result of Covid-19 €448m

Institutional

€2,330m

Limited Service Restaurants

What is Foodservice? Foodservice or ‘Out of Home’ is the term used to describe all food and drink consumed and prepared out of home. It includes everything from restaurants, pubs, hotels and coffee shops to workplace, hospitals and education catering.

€746m

Hotels & Accommodation

9% 45%

Ireland’s Foodservice Market

€5.1bn

€143m

3% 8%

Coffee Shops & Cafés

11%

14%

€517m

Other Commercial

€397m €564m

Full Service Restaurants

10%

Pubs

bordbia.ie Source: 2021 Irish Foodservice Market & Consumer Insights Report

Balance in

€1.4bn or 27.5%

Majority of spend is taking place in ROI

Critical Factors shaping the Future of Foodservice in Ireland

€3.7bn or 72.5%

‘Big Three’ barriers to growth

Ongoing restrictions

Return of international travel

Off-Premise initiatives

Eating out Experiences

Workforce remains unsettled

Changing consumer priorities

Future consumer demands

2022 PREDICTED GROWTH RATE: The value split between Commercial and Institutional Channels is

91% : 9%

52.9% from €5.15BN to €7.86BN

According to Bord Bia’s 2021 Irish Foodservice Market Insights Report, a whopping 73 per cent of people said eating out was their most missed social activity as a result of Covid-19 lockdowns. This makes eating out the most missed social activity, compared to shopping for leisure (59 per cent), concerts, sports and live events (57 per cent) and spending time with colleagues (45 per cent). The report also revealed that there remains a degree of caution around eating out, especially among older

Connacht businesses face €47k in crime costs A new survey on how crime affects businesses has found that for 88 per cent of those impacted by criminal activity since January 2020, the cost to the business was an average of €47,000. For another 5 per cent of those companies who were the victims of crime the cost was in excess of €500,000. Of the 50 Connacht/Ulster businesses included

in the survey, 35 per cent were among the victims of crime since January 2020. This compared to, Dublin 56 per cent, Rest of Leinster 31 per cent and Munster 48 per cent. The main concerns of the Connacht/Ulster businesses in terms of criminal activity, excluding cyber security were, burglary/robbery 67 per cent, vandalism

41 per cent and fraud 12%. The survey also found that insurances and public liability requirements influence security arrangements for 82 per cent of Irish businesses. The survey by Amárach Research for Netwatch was carried out to determine the type of crime, costs and the importance of security among Irish businesses.

Key among the findings is that 63 per cent of Irish businesses believe security has become more of a consideration with business interruption, health and safety and security breach ranked as the top three risks. 60 per cent report that their business now gives security management essential or high priority.

Pictured at the launch of this year’s GOAL Mile (proudly partnered by AIB) is Luke Fitzgerald, AIB staff member and former international Rugby Player. AIB is helping reach vulnerable communities already suffering deeply from the impact of crises, poverty and climate change. Complete the GOAL Mile by registering at goalmile.org and taking just 2,000 steps in any place, at any time during the month of December. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

demographics, and that full recovery in the sector is not expected until 2023 at the earliest. Despite a widespread view that there are adequate Covid-19 safety measures in place, for 6 in 10 diners (61 per cent), there is some degree of nervousness about eating out. Maureen Gahan, Foodservice Specialist, Bord Bia said: “It is encouraging to see growth in 2021, but we still have a way to go to returning to pre-pandemic levels given that the Irish foodservice market was severely impacted last year. Certain segments of

the market such as limitedservice restaurants and coffee shops have been less impacted and will recover quicker in 2022. “However, others such as restaurants, hotels, pubs and workplace catering will continue to be impacted not only by Covid-19 public health restrictions, but also by other broader sector challenges. These barriers to growth include labour shortages, supply chain disruption and rapidly rising inflation – all of which are complex issues being faced at a global level, which will require global solutions”.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

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

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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

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FARMING 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 All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations. Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@ gmail.com

D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

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

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FOUND < FOUND: Sum of money found in Rathcroghan area. Replies to PO Box No 3002 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

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

087 2721193 GATELY GARDENING

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

Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387

< HOME REPAIRS: Repair walls, plasterboard, painting, fascia, tiles, plinths, ceiling, wallpaper, parquet floors etc. Phone: 083 3369829

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER

facebook.com/moleskinarch

< MOBILE HAIRDRESSER: Kathleen’s Ladies and Gents hairdressing services. Mobile hairdresser available, also Indian head massage for appointment. Tel: 085 8514270 or 094 9643286

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Jennifer Higgins intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct two storey dwelling, domestic garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and percolation area, associated site development works and services at Taylorstown, Cloonown, Co. Roscommon.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters

• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

< LAUNDRY SERVICE: Washing, ironing, best prices, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, open 10.00 am - 5.30 pm, Monday to Saturday. Tel 083 3369829

Phone:

HOME REPAIRS

GARDENING SERVICES

LAUNDRY SERVICE

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

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.

. e

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Amy Cousins and Leo Cox, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, the installation of a sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works at Dooslattagh Townland, Kilglass, 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 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, FERN Architectural Studio, intend to apply for permission on behalf of Peter and Mary Gavin, for development at this site, Crancam, Drum, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of a single-storey, threebedroom dwelling, comprising of open plan kitchen and dining room, living room, evening room, accessible bathroom, w.c. and utility areas, new waste water treatment system and ancillary 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 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: Franco Magliocco Ba(Hons)Arch. DIP.ARCH. MRIAI.RIBA

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission for retention of domestic storage shed to rear of dwelling house at 54 Castle Manor, Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon NOTICE OF FURTHER INFORMATION Name of Applicant; GMC UTILITIES GROUP Ref number of the application: PD/21/380 The development applied for consisted of full planning to raise levels of land by circa 0.8m with imported clean soil and stone and carry out all associated site development works at Slevinagee Td., Roscommon.

Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at the offices of the Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information or Revised Plans may be made in writing to the planning authority within the statutory time limit. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation. Signed: James Lohan

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 Designers – Consulting Engineers

PLUMBING

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 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

PODIATRIST Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI at

Tullys

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: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK

• 20 years experience

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

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available l

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

For any of your foot issues call:

094 9620009 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

The Galway Podiatrist FOOT AND ANKLE CLINIC

Aoife Reilly BSc Pod, MChSI, SCPI (registered with VHI, AVIVA, LAYA & GloHealth)

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED

REFLEXOLOGY

< COTTAGE TO LET: In the Castlecoote area, 3 bedroom, oil and solid fuel heating, quiet country area. References required. Tel: 086 8693154

REFLEXOLOGY

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 < AVAILABLE TO RENT IMMEDIATELY: Immaculate New House in Elphin, €800 per month. Contact 0871873786 for details.

REFLEXOLOGY Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI)

Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment. Through massage of the feet reflexology can: • Rebuild energy levels in the body • Assist in relieving stress • Encourage relaxation • Improve general wellbeing Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body. Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212

Gift vouchers available. For Bookings Contact:

College Road, For Bookings Contact: Mountbellew,

(087) 707 5803

Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

(087) 707 5803 (Saturday & evening appointments available)

Co Galway H53 D7W8

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 Open under Goverment + HSE Guidelines

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

• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

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

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Reflexologist Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

l General Reflexology l Baby Reflexology l Special Needs

Reflexology l Hoppi Ear Candling l Indian Head Massage

Phone Diane

086 4061401 TUITION

Christmas LCHL Revision Course l Wed 29th Dec

l Thurs 30th Dec

l Roscommon Town Venue l Booking deposit

required

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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!

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

083 0684011

< FOR SALE: Small truck loads of Turf, size 9x5, 14 inch box, 3 rows of reeking over the box and a heap on top, delivered. Tel: 087 6280483 < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Net bags of seasoned firewood only €3 per bag, buy 20 bags get 1 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf only €35 per bag. Half tone bags of Ash/Beech only €35 per bag. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 or Tony 087 7055800 < W O O D / F I R E W O O D : High quality seasoned split hardwood timber, suitable for stoves and open-fire. Available in 500kg bulk bag and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 086 3312411 after 6pm. < TURF: Top quality well seasoned black hopper turf, delivered in large trailer loads also bales of hay for sale. Tel: 086 3903120 or 086 2544294

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

Also bulk loads of Cattle and Peat bedding (delivered)

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Classifieds USEFUL SERVICES

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

USEFUL SERVICES

Aluminium

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

The company that can do all them small jobs

HANDY MAN AVAILABLE

FROM

www.oddjobsolutions.ie

Power Washing l Gutters Cleaned l Fitting Shower Doors l Bathroom Accessories l Tiling and Timber Flooring l Flat Pack Furniture Assembled l General Gardening Maintenance and Clean-up etc.

Established since 2005

NO JOB TOO SMALL

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

087 2478609

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS

Supplied & Fitted From

€190 094 96 31880 087 9100477

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small. Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

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!

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:

QUIGLEY Eileen

Runnabracken, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

Creevy, Roscommon (22nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear father and grandfather Martin (Matt) Judge, Runnabracken, Donamon, Co. Roscommon, who died on 6th December 2010

In loving memory of Eileen Quigley, Creevy, Roscommon, who died on 14th December 1999. R.I.P.

BREHENY Patrick (Pat) Glanduff, Kiltoom, Athlone. (5th Anniversary)

Mary Harlow – Applicant

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that Application will be made at the same time in accordance with the provisions of Section 30 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1927, as amended for the TRANSFER of the said Licence freed and discharged from any endorsements against or records of offences with reference to the said Licence.

Phone:

JUDGE Martin (Matt)

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF ON-LICENCE.

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

Electrician Available

IN THE MATTER OF THE LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT, 1833, SECTION 6 & SECTION 30 OF THE INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT, 1960 & THE LICENSING ACTS, 1833 TO 1995 AS AMENDED.

WANTED:

Call Mike

PAINTER & DECORATOR

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

District No. 4

TAKE NOTICE THAT Mary Harlow of Saint Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, intends to apply to the District Court Sitting at The Courthouse, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town in the County of Roscommon, on the 21st of December, 2021, at 10.30 a.m. (being the Annual Licensing District Court for the said District Court Area of Roscommon) or as soon as possible thereafter for the TRANSFER to her of the Licence attached to premises known as “The Central Bar”, situate at The Square, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon, in the Court Area and District aforesaid, which said premises are presently licensed in the name of Paul Carthy at Market Square, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

086 4679798

PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT District Court Area of Roscommon

086 2437376

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Dated the 12th. day of November, 2021. SIGNED: Conleth Harlow & Co., Solicitors for the Applicant, Saint Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon. TO: & &

The Superintendent, An Garda Siochana, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon. The Fire Authority, Roscommon Fire Service, Roscommon County Council, Circular Road, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon.

You were so very special and had the nicest ways you did so very much in life and never asked for praise.

Sadly missed by his daughter Carmel, her partner Andrew and grandchildren Colm and Blake. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Nothing on earth can ever replace the sound of your voice. No verse, no flowers no tears can say how much we miss you everyday.

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

Loved and always remembered by your sons, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

MEE Bernadette and Frank

Always remembered by his daughter Martina, son-in-law Brendan and grandchildren Kevin, David and Caoimhe. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday, 12th December at 11am.

Feevagh, Dysart and Hawthorn Drive, Co. Roscommon Bernadette who died on 11th December 2016 (Bernadette 5th Anniversary)

KENNY Maureen

Frank who died on 6th February 2006 (Frank 16th Anniversary)

Lisnaville, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary) In loving memory of Maureen who died on 9th December 2017

The District Court Clerk, The Courts Services, Government Buildings, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon.

Will those who think of Bernadette and Frank today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered by their family, friends and relations. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at a later date.

087 9657933

or 090 6626752

In loving memory of Patrick (Pat), who passed away on the 15th December 2016 Silent memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our thoughts and prayers, you still live on.

Sadly missed by his sister Kathleen, nieces and nephews. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 12th December at 11.30am.

NAUGHTON Annie (33rd Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Annie Naughton late of 5 St. Theresa’s Tce Roscommon, who died on 15th December 1988 R.I.P. A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for someone special, in God’s care.

Always remembered by her loving family. Anniversary Mass for Maurice and Annie will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday, 15th December at 11am.

THANKSGIVINGS

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

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

There are no words to tell you what losing you has meant, but now each day brings memories of happy years we spent. You’d want us all, to smile again and that’s just what we do everytime we reminisce, with loving thoughts of you.

Sadly missed and always remembered by her loving family. Anniversary Mass has been offered.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail) O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother (make request). O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mother, I place this cause in your Hands (3 times). Thank you for you mercy towards me and mine. This prayer must be said for three days and after that the request will be granted (will never fail). This prayer must be published immediately. M.L. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.L.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McKEAGUE Pat Creggs, Co. Galway (4th Anniversary) In loving memory of Pat who died on 14th December 2017 Aged 60 years May Pat’s gentle soul Rest in Peace.

COSTELLO Róisín

Killeglan, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Who sadly passed away on 16th December, 2020.

BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS

KELLY Kenneth Lanesborough/Boston USA (6th Anniversary)

• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Pat’s beloved dog Crystal HIS JOURNEY’S JUST BEGUN Don’t think of him as gone away, his journey’s just begun. Life holds so many facets - this earth is only one. Just think of him as resting, from the sorrows and the tears, in a place of warmth and comfort, where there are no days and years. Think how he must be wishing, that we could know today, how nothing but our sadness can really pass away. And think of him as living, in the hearts of those he touched, for nothing loved is ever lost, and he was loved so much.

Sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Teresa, Pat’s beloved dog Crystal, brothers Micheál, James, Gerard and his sister Maria, nieces, nephews, aunt Eileen (U.S.A.), cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, friends and neighbours. Pat’s Fourth Anniversary Mass takes place in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 12th December at 11.30am.

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

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

We, Roisin’s heartbroken parents Tina and John and her brothers Sean and Keelan, along with our extended family, would like to acknowledge and convey our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the overwhelming support, compassion and kindness shown to us on our devastating loss of our beautiful daughter Róisín. To our family, neighbours and friends who helped in our home and brought food and refreshments and continue to support us, we will be forever grateful to you. A sincere thank you to those who sent flowers, mass cards, sympathy cards, phoned, texted, messages of condolence and memories on rip.ie. We also thank the grave diggers who prepared Róisín’s final resting place. We thank our friends and neighbours who lined the road to St. Ronan’s Church and the cemetery, a special word of thanks to Róisín’s school friends and staff of Scoil Mhuire, Ballygar and to the staff and pupils of St. Ronan’s National School for doing a Guard of Honour on the day of Róisín’s funeral. To the emergency services and the staff of Portiuncla Hospital we thank you for all your efforts and care given to Róisín. To Fr. Sean Neylon, thank you for celebrating Róisín’s Funeral Mass and for the prayers in our home. We thank Donie and staff of Hamrock’s Funeral Services for their professional help and kindness shown to us. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation for your compassion, support and kindness. Róisín’s First Anniversary Mass will take place on Saturday, 18th December, 2021 at 11am in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell. Roisin will be forever missed and will live in the hearts of all who cherished and loved her.

JUDGE Mary (nee Conlon) An Graig, Athleague (Formerly Runnabracken, Donamon) (4th Anniversary) Who died on 13th December 2017

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

The local paper!

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

Who died on the 23rd December 2015 Loved and remembered by family and friends, Lanesboro and Boston. Mass has been offered.

DONLON Timothy (Timmie)

MOTHER MARY I come to Thee, my Mother, to lay before Thy feet, my fears, my hopes, my longings, my bitter hours and sweat. O take them Mother Mary and place them by God’s throne, your hands will give them value, they’re worthless on their own. As I kneel before you, speak to your Son for me, though poor and small my offering, I know ‘tis dear to thee, for you your Son at Cana, changed water into wine, the needs of bride and bridegroom, were small compared to mine. And so, my Mother Mary, I lay before Thy feet, my fears, my hopes, my longings, my bitter hours and sweat.

Sadly missed by her son Martin and daughters. Mary’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday, 12th December at 9.30am.

DOWD Thomas (Joseph) Corrspark, Glinsk, Ballymoe, Co. Galway (5th Anniversary)

St. John’s, Lecarrow Co. Roscommon Who died 14 December 2009 (12th Anniversary)

In memory of Thomas (Joseph) who passed away on 22nd December 2016.

There is a love, a special love that is for you alone. There is a place, deep in my heart that only you can own. You are not just a memory or part of my past you are part of my life for as long as it shall last.

Lovingly remembered by Elizabeth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ We’ll remember all you taught us, we’re heart-broken but won’t be sad because you’ll send us down the answers and you’ll always be our Dad

Sadly missed by Regina and Martha.

You gave us years of happiness then sorrow came with tears you left us lovely memories We will treasure through the years.

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

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

Loved, remembered and sadly missed by your loving wife Celia, son Tom, daughters Marian, Sandra and Martina, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 12th December at 10am. May he Rest in Peace.

REILLY Paddy Aughmaghree, Kilteevan (11th Anniversary)

GATELY (nee Morrissey) Mary Bredagh, Dysart (8th Anniversary)

Remembered with love and affection by John J, John, Margaret, Madonna, sister Delia, grandchildren and family.

KIERNAN Sandra Ruane, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Sandy who passed away on the 12th December, 2014.

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

Sandy, you are always loved and forever missed by all your family and friends. Anniversary Mass will take place on Friday, December 10th at 7.30pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass.

PADDEN Michael J. (Jody) Celtic Avenue, Roscommon and formerly of Ballina (22nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Paddy who died on 11th December 2010 Special memories keep you near, as time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way, have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of him today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered always by his wife Phil and family. Mass has been offered.

In loving memory of Jody, who passed away on the 2nd December 1999. R.I.P. Deep are the memories, precious they stay no passing years can take them away.

Sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen and family. Masses have been offered

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES O’GRADY Margaret (Gretta) & Thomas Doorty, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Margaret who died 12th April 2014 and Thomas who died on 7th December 1980

They were parents so very rare, content in their home and always there, On earth they toiled, in Heaven they rest, God bless my parents they were the best.

Sadly missed by their loving family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 12th December at 11am in St. Bridget’s Church, Four Mile House, Roscommon.

MONTH’S MIND MASS FINNERAN Frank

Feevagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on 12th November 2021

We the family of the late Frank Finneran wish to express our heartful thanks and appreciation to all those who sympathised and supported us on the sad loss of our dearly loved Frank. Thanks to all who visited our home, sent mass cards, letters, phoncecalls, text messages and left messages of condolences on R.I.P.ie. Your kind and supportive words and actions gave us great comfort. To Frank’s good friends, neighbours and family who called to visit him during his long illness. Frank certainly enjoyed reminiscing, sharing memories and seeing you all. Thanks to all who cared for Frank, Dr. Martin Daly and staff, Portiuncula, Roscommon and Sligo Hospitals, Sacred Heart Home and North West Hospice. To our wonderful carers, Dodge, Linda, Eileen, Brian and Tomás who gave us great support. Also Public Health Nurse, Áine Burns and Cunningham’s Pharmacy. A special word of thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for his spiritual support during Frank’s long illness and celebrating his beautiful Funeral Mass. Also Liam, Marion and Maura for the beautiful music and singing and Michael Carty for streaming the Mass. Thanks to Michael Dempsey for his total professionalism in arranging Frank’s funeral. The grave diggers who prepared Frank’s final resting place. Thanks to Dysart Hall Committee and Sean Mulry for the lovely meal. We hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our gratitude and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Frank’s Month’s Mind Mass, will be held on Saturday, 11th December at 10.30am in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart. Forever loved Lily and the Finneran family.

THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (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. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. B.F.

REGAN (nee Carey) May

Ishlawn, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon and formally of Kilmurray, Martinstown, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick Who passed away on the 10th December 2020.

LYNCH Eamon and Kathleen Motepark, Roscommon (22nd and 9th Anniversaries)

Softly the leaves of memory fall, gently we gather and treasure them all. Unseen, unheard, you are always near, so missed, so loved, so very dear. As we lovingly remember May on her First Anniversary her husband and family wish to express our sincere gratitude and deep appreciation to all who showed us kindness and provided support from the time Mam took ill to the time of her passing and for their continued support in the past year. We would like to express a heartfelt thanks to the ambulance crew who attended to our home on the day Mam took ill, Jimmy, Michelle and Michael your true kindness and compassion to Mam meant so much to Mam and us all. Also, a heartfelt thanks to the Nurses and Support staff, Doctors, Palliative Care Team and the Chaplin in the A & E and ICU of MUH Castlebar who truly cared for Mam, and for the support given to us as a family and for the care provided to our Dad in such difficult circumstances. We thank everyone who lined the roads and streets as Mam made her final journey to St. Nathy’s Cathedral. For all those who formed the Guard of Honour in the Cathedral grounds and onwards to Kilcolman Cemetery to Mam’s final resting place, thank you. Our sincere thanks to Fr. Joseph Gavigan for visiting Mam over the years to sit and chat and pray with Mam in our home, and especially for calling to pray with Mam while she was in hospital; this really meant a lot to her. Thank you for the wonderful support you have given our family, for the prayers offered while Mam was reposing at home, for officiating at Mam’s Funeral Mass and burial and for giving a very fitting homily recounting Mam’s life and for saying Mam’s Month’s Mind Mass in the most difficult of circumstances when no one could be in attendance due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. We also thank Fr. Paul Kivlehan for concelebrating Mam’s Funeral Mass. A special thanks to Shane Giblin and Brendan Nugent for the live streaming of Mam’s final journey and Funeral Mass. This was a great comfort to the family, friends and relations who could not attend due to the Covid-19 restrictions that were in place. Thank you to everyone for observing these restrictions in very difficult circumstances. Thank you to the Sacristan John Frain for preparing the church, to Anne Carmody, Anne O’Brien and Megan O’Hara for their excellent singing and music in the church which enriched the Mass, to Eunice Moran who sang so beautifully at Mam’s graveside and to Garda Martin Coyle for his assistance during this difficult period. A special word of thanks to Tommy Sharkey and the staff of Sharkey Funeral Directors, Ballaghaderreen who handled the funeral arrangements in a very professional manner while also demonstrating real compassion and sensitivity to our family. Thank you to the grave diggers, the Bell brothers, for their hard work in preparing Mam’s final resting place with such dignity and care. To Bernie and all the staff at All Seasons Flowers for the beautiful floral arrangements. A sincere thank you to all who sent warm wishes via phone calls and text messages, get well cards, Mass cards, those who prayed for Mam and lit candles during Mam’s short illness. Mam was so grateful and appreciated each and every good wish. We have been comforted by the volume and sincerity of condolences we have received. We thank all those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, enrolments, letters, emails, text messages, telephone calls, flowers, funeral wreaths, made charitable donations in Mam’s name and those who posted messages of sympathy on RIP.ie, Midwest Radio and other social media forums. To those who shared precious memories of our beloved Mam and speak so fondly of her, we thank you for taking time to remember the wonderful person Mam was and this will always be remembered. We would like to thank all who brought food to the family home, with a special thanks to Suzanne, Saoirse and Jennifer, for their help and support over the weeks of Mam’s illness. A special thanks to Nora for your loyal friendship and support to Mam throughout the years and to all our neighbours, friends and relations who have been a great source of happiness and joy to Mam throughout her life; a sincere thank you. Thank you to all who have kept Mam and our family in their thoughts and prayers during the year. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Two tired eyes are sleeping, two willing hands are still, the one who worked so hard for us, is resting at God’s will. Your life was love and labour, your love for your family true, you did your best for all of us, we will always remember you. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. So dear Wife, Mam, Grandmother, Sister and Aunt Rest In Peace and thanks for all you’ve done, we pray that God has given you, the crown you’ve truly won. Forever loved and missed by your loving husband Noel, sons John, Bartley, Noel and Nathy, daughter Mary, grandchildren Seán, Kevin, Conor, Aisling, Jack, Ciarán, Luke, Oisín, Katelyn, Anna-Mai and Noel, daughters-in-law Patricia, Colette and Joanne, sisters Nora (Kelly), Eileen (Sullivan), Breda (Tierney), brothers Andy and Pat and their families. First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen on Sunday, 12th of December at 10 am.

Always remembered by your loving family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday, 13th December at 7pm.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

Sports PEOPLE

Manager Wally Burke and his players celebrate at the full-time whistle following St. Faithleach’s’ extra-time in over St. Farnan’s in the AIB Connacht IFC Semi-Final at Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday last. See page 63. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pearses can have final say! AIB Connacht Club SFC Semi-Final: Pádraig Pearses v Mountbellew/Moylough on Saturday at Dr. Hyde Park at 1.30 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Pádraig Pearses, under the wily Pat Flanagan (pictured), will want to put their stamp on the provincial championship this year. Pic: Mick McCormack

A two-week hold-up because of Covid has meant that this eagerly awaited Connacht semi-final will now probably be played in far worse weather conditions than would have been the case when the fixture was due to have gone ahead. Nevertheless for both sides the prize is a big one, a place in the provincial decider against Knockmore in early January. With the worst of the winter weather coming over the past week or so, the chances are that this will be a low-scoring and hard-fought match that will go right to the wire so don’t be surprised if it takes extra-time to produce a winner. Having won the first senior title in their history just two years ago, it was probably understandable that Pearses didn’t make progress in Connacht given that to win the Fahey Cup in 2019 was their primary objective. But this time around the situation is different. Pearses look a very solid side with plenty of experience, and under the wily Pat Flanagan they will want to put their stamp on the provincial championship this year. Pearses have been very solid all year and with Anthony Butler, Ronan Daly and Davy Murray outstanding in defence, the Galway champions will have to be at their best to cause problems up front, although Pearses would be well advised to minimise the amount of scoreable frees they give away as Barry McHugh is a top-class operator from the placed ball.

Hubert Darcy will have a huge role to play at full forward and his ball winning ability will be another vital component for Pearses. Paul Carey, Emmet Kelly and Conor Payne will be hoping to continue their best form from the Roscommon campaign. Mountbellew/Moylough will provide very stern opposition. Having pushed Corofin all the way on a number of occasions in recent years, they finally saw them off in the Galway final three weeks ago to win their first senior title since 1986. Not only that, but they recovered from being seven points down against Leitrim champions Ballinamore to qualify for this semi-final with a storming second half. The longer break after the Ballinamore match could be a help to them, although one does not know the extent of the Covid problem that caused this game to be re-fixed in the first instance. Under the guidance of former star Val Daly, the Galway champions have several very talented players, not least John and Michael Daly (sons of the manager), Barry McHugh, Eoin Finnerty, Colin Murray and Paul Donnellan. Their midfield combination of Michael Daly and Matthew Barrett looks especially strong, and Pearses will have to be ready to compete fiercely in this sector. But with Conor and Niall Daly there, I expect that Pat Flanagan’s men will at least able to get a share of the spoils in this vital area. There will not be much between these teams. The conditions alone will determine that. Mountbellew/ Moylough got a searching test from Ballinamore and that will stand to them. But this Pearses team look settled, experienced and ideally placed to make a serious assault on the provincial championship after a six-week break since they won the Roscommon title. I expect them to win here by a couple of points and get to the final against Knockmore in early 2022, but it will be close. Prediction: Pádraig Pearses

Dates set for Connacht championships The dates for the Connacht football championship fixtures have been confirmed. In the senior football championship, London will face Leitrim and Sligo will play New York on Sunday, April 17th. The winners of the Sligo and New York game will meet Roscommon on May 1st. The other semi-final between the winners of Leitrim and London and Galway and Mayo will be on May 8th. The Connacht final will be played on the 29th May. In the U-20 championship, Roscommon will play Sligo in the semi-final on April 13th with the final being played on April 20th.

GAA Results

O’Rourke Cup Division One Semi-Final Pádraig Pearses 1-15 Michael Glavey’s 0-3 Tansey Cup Final Oran 0-12 Shannon Gaels 0-7 AFL Division Five Semi-Final Kilmore 0-12 St. Dominic’s 1-7 Fuerty 5-8 St. Barry’s 1-7 Junior B FC Final Strokestown 0-11 Éire Óg 1-7 U-20 FC Division One (Group A) Pádraig Pearses W/O Castlerea St. Kevin’s U-20 FC Division One Semi-Final Pádraig Pearses 0-15 Clann na nGael 1-9 U20 FC Division Two Semi-Final Strokestown 1-11 St. Ciaran’s 2-6 St. Dominic’s 4-10 Michael Glavey’s/Éire Óg 0-4 U-20 FC Division Three (Group A) Kilmore/Shannon Gaels 1-11 St. Aidan’s 0-4

Fixtures

Sunday, December 12th U-20 FC Division One Semi-Final At Dr. Hyde Park: St. Brigid’s v Oran. 2 pm U-20 FC Division Three (Group A) At Mulhern Park: St. Aidan’s v St. Faithleach’s. 1 pm

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Dominant Creggs win in Sligo!

Connacht League Division J1A: Sligo RFC 5 Creggs RFC 18. Creggs enjoyed another impressive Connacht League win last Sunday as they eased passed Sligo away from home. This result was further evidence of Creggs’ strength in depth, with over 40 players taking the field so far this season and eight changes made from the side which beat Westport the previous weekend. This Sunday, Creggs are in Cawley Cup final action against Castlebar RFC in Crowley Park, Galway at 4.30 pm. Creggs will be hoping to continue their four-year unbeaten run in this competition and win their third cup in a row.

Youth Rugby Connacht Girls U-18 League Division 1: Claremorris RFC 15 Creggs RFC 21. Creggs’ U-18 Girls are Connacht Division One champions for the first time following a thrilling win over Claremorris in Dunmore last Saturday. Creggs were the better team in the early exchanges but it was Claremorris who took the lead, and after a break from the base of the scrum, they found a gap and made the line to take a 5-0 lead. The Creggs girls recovered well and were rewarded when Sarah Purcell made a line break before off loading to Megan Donohue, who touched down under the posts. Eabha Dowd converted for a 7-5 half-time lead. After the break, Claremorris began very well and although some excellent defence from Mary Anne Jordan, Ciara Boyle, Eadaoin Walsh and Caoimhe Walsh kept them at bay early on, their pressure paid off and they eventually regained the lead (12-7). The game was certainly in the balance at this stage and the Creggs girls had the much better of the territory after that. After a period of pressure, Jemima Adams Verling got in for a try after picking from the base of the ruck and diving over from close range. Eabha Dowd again landed the conversion to put Creggs 1412 in front. After a long kick downfield, Claremorris gathered the ball and only for some heroic defending from Megan Donohue and Sarah Purcell in the corner a score looked likely. Claremorris were awarded a penalty from that play, which they converted for a 15-14 lead with only four minutes left on the clock. To their credit, Creggs kept fighting and were rewarded a scrum for a forward pass shortly after the restart. The Creggs

pressure intensified at this point and they were rewarded a penalty, but declined the option to kick. Their patience was rewarded following four more phases of play which resulted in Jemima Adams Verling powering over for the winning try from close-range. Eabha Dowd kicked the extras as Creggs celebrated their first provincial title in style. U-18.5 Connacht League: Sligo RFC 5 Creggs RFC 7. A depleted Creggs side travelled to Sligo last Sunday and came away with a dogged two-point win. The first half remained scoreless before Creggs gained a foothold after the interval. Ciaran Purcell made the break before off-loading to Lee Kilcoyne who went over. DJ Hession converted to give the visitors a 7-0 lead. Creggs lead was short-lived however as a missed tackle in midfield allowed Sligo in for a try, but the conversion was missed and Creggs managed to hold out for a narrow win. This Saturday, Creggs U-16 Girls will compete in the Connacht Division League Final against Ballina in Claremorris at 1 pm. The U-14 Girls host Tuam RFC also on Saturday while the U-18.5s travel to Ballinasloe in Connacht League Division One. The U-17 Boys, meanwhile, are home to Loughrea RFC and the U-14 Boys host Corinthians on Sunday at 11.30 am. The U-13s are also home on Sunday, against Sligo at 1 pm. Please check updates at www.creggsrugby.ie for the latest news.

A recent meeting of Roscommon & District Football League heard plans for a Roscommon Women’s League for next year. Chairman Niall Kelly and Secretary Gerry Davis called on clubs to express their interest in joining the league and the response so far has been encouraging. Clubs interested in joining the league are asked to contact the RDFL committee.

Draw for FAI Junior Cup

The draw has been made for the fifth round of the FAI Centenary Cup with Roscommon & District Football League sides, Ballinasloe Town and Boyle Celtic, scheduled to play on January 16th of next year. Ballinasloe Town entertain Mayo side Ballyheane AFC while Boyle Celtic face a difficult trip to Waterford to take on Villa FC.

Soccer results

Mini Rugby A very successful Mini Rugby Blitz against teams from Ballinrobe RFC and Claremorris RFC took place last Saturday with almost 350 children taking part. New players (Boys and Girls) always welcome to come along and join Creggs Mini Rugby in any of the age-groups Creggs second row Brian Donohue goes high to secure possession from Maurice Buckley’s throw against Sligo away last Sunday. from U-7s to U-12s.

Winner of first Creggs RFC monthly draw Simon Spellman from Roscommon town was the first winner of the Creggs RFC monthly draw for four tickets to the Ireland v Wales Six Nations game next year. The December draw will take place just after Christmas, and the fabulous prize will be an unique certified €5,000 diamond ring. The exciting new Creggs Rugby fundraiser for the

RDFL calls for expressions of interest for Women’s League

dressing rooms and gym offers top prizes for each of the next four months as well as the that super €50,000 top prize. Buy your €20 ticket today and be in for all remaining draws including the top prize of €50,000 or a Toyota Hi Lux Invincible or Volkswagen Electric ID.4 SUV. See www.WIN50000euro.com to buy your tickets.

Connacht FA Cup Cloonfad United 1 Ballyheane 3 RDFL Premier Division Moore United 0 Boyle Celtic 2 Kilkerrin United v Castlerea Celtic, postponed. Moylough ’79 v Ballymoe FC, postponed. Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Ballinasloe Town 3 RDFL Division One CP Ajax W/O Dysart FC Ballinagare Manor United 2 Shiven Rovers 1 Dunmore Town v Skyvalley Rovers, postponed. Ballinasloe Town 2 Roscommon United 2 RDFL Division Two Moore United B 1 St. John’s Athletic B 2 Ballymoe FC B v Ballaghaderreen FC B, postponed. Rahara Rovers 1 Dunmore Town B 0 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United 1 Boyle Celtic B 0 Roscommon United B 2 Cloonfad Celtic B 3 Cam Celtic v Skyvalley Rovers B, postponed.

Soccer fixtures Friday, December 10th RDFL Division One Glen Celtic v Ballinasloe Town B. 8 pm RDFL Division Two Ballymoe FC B v Ballaghaderreen FC B. 8 pm Saturday, December 11th RDFL Premier Division At Lecarrow: Ballaghaderreen FC v Moore United. 8 pm RDFL Division One Skyvalley Rovers v Shiven Rovers. 8 pm

Creggs U-18 Girls are Connacht Division 1 League champions for the first time after a thrilling encounter against Claremorris RFC in Dunmore last Saturday.

Sunday, December 12th RDFL Premier Division Moylough ’79 v Ballymoe FC. 11 am Cloonfad United v St. John’s Athletic. 2 pm RDFL Division One Dunmore Town v CP Ajax. 11 am Roscommon United v Ballinagare Manor United. 2 pm RDFL Division Two Cam Celtic v Skyvalley Rovers B. 2 pm

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

Shor t putts (News from local golf clubs)

Rachael Blackmore, leading jockey at Cheltenham including Honeysuckle in the Champion Hurdle, won the Grand National on Minella Times and has received a nomination in the World Sport Star category in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.

In a very quiet week of racing in Ireland, today’s meeting is the rescheduled Tramore meeting, which was cancelled due to poor weather last Tuesday with a 12.35 pm start. There is a flat card on the all-weather at Dundalk tomorrow, off at 4 pm. The Fairyhouse race is on Saturday at 11.30 am. Terrestrial TV racing begins on Friday on ITV with four races from Cheltenham, including the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase. On Saturday, they are covering seven races, with four from Cheltenham and three from Doncaster.

Review of the Week

Tiger Roll may not have sparked at Aintree, pulling up after the 11th, but Gordon Elliott really sparkled on Saturday in Navan. Willie Mullins won the opening maiden hurdle with Whatdeawant, ridden by his nephew Danny, but that was it. Gordon Elliott took centre stage after that, winning all seven of the remaining cards. The Goffer won the second division of the maiden hurdle at 10/1 under Jody McGarvey. Elliott’s Fantasio D’alene was the favourite and fell under Davy Russell. Russell missed the ride on Ginto who scored in the Grade 2 Novice Hurdle under replacement jockey Jamie Codd at 11/8 for favourite. In the feature of the day, the Grade B Bective Stud Handicap Hurdle, the outsider Commander won at 40/1 under Shane Fitzgerald. Denis O’Regan became the fourth jockey to win for Elliott on the hot favourite (1/4), with Riviere Detel in the Grade 3 Klarion Davis Novice Chase. Kevin Sexton became the fifth jockey to win, partnering Farouk D’alene (9/2). In the sixth race, Shane Fitzgerald brought up a double in the penultimate on Conflated at 9/4, and Jamie Codd completed his double in the bumper on the favourited Isthatwhatunitesus at 10/11. Elliott’s weekend did not end there, and he had an across-the-board treble on Sunday, with Davy Russell riding a double, Top Bandit and Party Central, in Punchestown. Denis O’Regan won on Iberique Du Seuil in Cork. What a weekend for the trainer! The John Durkan Memorial Chase provided WP Mullins with a 1, 2, 3 as Alloha (7/2) under son Patrick beat Jandil (22/1) and Melon (50/1), as Envoy Allen finished a disappointing sixth of ten. In Cork, Willie Mullins and Sean O’Keeffe won the Grade 2 Mares Novice Chase with Concertista and in the Grade 3 Stayers Novice

Hurdle, Kilworth based Sean O’Brien’s outsider Nells Well won at 25/1, ridden by Mark McDonagh.

Racing News

Rachael Blackmore, leading jockey at Cheltenham including Honeysuckle in the Champion Hurdle, won the Grand National on Minella Times and has now received a nomination in the World Sport Star category in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards. Other nominations include tennis superstar Novak Djokovic, American Football great Tom Brady, boxer Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, Formula One star Max Verstappen and Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah. Aidan O’Brien is hoping for another slice of history by winning one of the few Group 1 showpieces that has eluded him. Japan, very aptly named, spearheads the Master of Ballydoyle’s charge for Sunday morning’s prestigious Japan Cup, with a €2.4 million prize pot on offer. An Irish raider hasn’t won in Tokyo since the Frank Dunne-trained, Brian Rouse-ridden Staneera won by a head in 1983 to become the first European and Irish winner. Irish jockeys Michael Kinane on Michael Stoute’s Pilsudski in 1997, and Oisin Murphy on the Yashsushi Shono-

trained Suave Richard in 2019, have kept the tricolour flying. Leopardstown had hoped to allow 10,000 spectators at each day of its Christmas festival, but this is most unlikely due to changes in Covid regulations for indoor seating and 4,000 to 6,000 appear to be a more realistic figure. Under the new protocols, indoor facilities can operate through table service only, with a metre between each table with no more than six people at each table.

Point-to-Point News

No racing on Saturday in the north again this weekend but there are two meetings down south on Sunday, with racing at Borris House on the Carlow/Kilkenny border with 195 entries, and at Boulta, Ballynoe in Co. Cork with 169 runners. With the large entries racing scheduled to begin at 12 pm, the starting time is now 10.30 am at both meetings. Spectators still must preregister to be allowed access to point to points. One can preregister with p2p.com and get an access QR code to present before entering the venue. Registration will open at 9 am on any Friday in advance of each weekend’s racing on p2p.ie. All attendees, industry participants and spectators will have to register.

ROSCOMMON Roger Hynes won the Men’s weekly competition on November 28th with 39 points. Matt Farrell (37) was second and David Hill (29) took the gross prize. The Ladies’ 9-hole was won by Fen Thompson with 21 points, Marie McManus (20) was second and Colette Glynn third (19). The Men’s Senior results for Thursday last were as follows: Winner: M. O’Connor (36); Cat 1: D. Browne (35); Cat 2: M. Dolan (32); Cat 3: K. Doherty (35); Over 80: T. Farrell (28), and deuces: M. Farrell, O. Dempsey and S. Brennan. The Ladies’ Senior competition was won by M. Lalor while J. Moran and F. Thompson were second and third respectively. S. Kelly finished fourth. CASTLEREA Castlerea Golf Club’s AGM took place recently, with outgoing officers Mary, Kathy and Michael thanked for their dedication and hard work over the past year. Best wishes were extended to club officers for 2022 including Club President Tony Brophy, Captain Gregory Bruen, Lady Captain Catherine Collins, and to member Kay O’Loughlin, who becomes the first female President of Golf Ireland. CARRICK Ciaran Cafferky was the winner in week one of the Gent’s Winter League with 25 points. Oliver Duignan won weeks two and three with 21 points on both occasions. The Men’s Club AGM took place on Thursday last via Zoom. The following officers have been elected for 2022: Captain Eoin Gibney; Vice-Captain Brendan Boyle; Men’s Secretary Chris Lowe; Competitions Secretary Paul Kelleher; Handicap Secretary David McDermott; Men’s Committee members: Darren Conlon, Damien Duignan, Niall Loftus, Cian Harman, Tom McGuinness, Keith Tighe, Sean Mulvey, Gordon Kavanagh, and John Coffey. Incoming Captain Eoin Gibney nominated Tommie Mulvey for the position of Club President. All outgoing officers and committee members were thanked for their work over the last year, and we wish new officers and committee members good luck for 2022. ATHLONE Denise Lally won the Ladies’ 12-hole competition recently with 27 points. Deirdre Connolly was second with 24 points while Anna Walsh was third with 23. Ann Geoghegan was fourth with 22. The 97 Club Hamper competition on December 2nd was won by Lily O’Sullivan with 26 points. Class winners were as follows: Class A: Anna Walsh (26 points); Class B: Eleanor Larkin (25); Class C: Bernie Stapleton (22); Class D: Mary Jo Farrell (22); Class E: Marie O’Donoghue. The Men’s 12-hole competition was won by Declan Corcoran (31 points). Other results were as follows: Class A: Adrian Kelly (28); Class B: Martin Fitzgibbon (30); Class C: Denis Earley (28); Class D: Bernard McConnell (26). AWGS results: 1st: F. Sheeran (26 points); Class 1: J. Costello (20); Class 2: P. Lennon (25); Class 3: T. Carmody (24); Class 4: R. Tierney (23).

Kilbride hoping to break into Underdogs 15

Gordon Elliot’s horses completed a 37,204-1 seven-timer at Navan last Sunday.

Kilbride footballer, Fiona Tully, will be hoping to secure a starting spot when the TG4 Underdogs take on All-Ireland champions Meath at DonoughmoreAshbourne this Saturday. Tully made the final ‘Underdogs’ panel following trials under the watchful eyes of former Kerry captain and manager, Mickey Ned O’Sullivan, former Donegal and Gaoth Dobhair legend, Kevin Cassidy, and former Waterford player, Michelle Ryan. The panel is made up of players who have yet to play at junior, intermediate or senior inter-county championship level.

Kilbride footballer, Fiona Tully, is one of the hopefuls hoping to make the cut on TG4’s GAA reality series ‘Underdogs’.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

SportsPeople

Rossies book final spot with Sligo demolition!

The Roscommon Intermediate Ladies team pictured at Kiltoom ahead of their match against Sligo in Sunday’s TG4 Connacht Intermediate clash. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

TG4 Connacht Ladies IFC Semi-Final Roscommon 3-21 Sligo 0-3 The Roscommon Ladies footballers are through to the Connacht Intermediate Football Championship Final following a convincing win over Sligo at Kiltoom last Sunday. Leading by 3-11 to 0-3 at halftime, thanks to wonder goals from Laura Fleming (2) and Lisa O’Rourke, Ollie Lennon’s charges never looked in danger and they extended their lead further after the interval. Roscommon had started in blistering fashion and were off the mark within seconds as Rebecca Finan opened the

scoring. Leah Duffy replied for Sligo before points from Lauren Shanagher, Aisling Hanly, Rebecca Finan (3), and goals from Fleming and O’Rourke had the Rossies firmly in control by the first water break (2-7 to 0-1). Finan and Laura Fleming then increased the lead in the second quarter with Fleming’s second goal ending the game as a contest. Further points from Aisling Hanly, Finan, and Fleming gave the Rossies a seventeenpoint lead at the interval. Sligo did show signs of improvement early in the second half and Laura Foley forced a fine save from Helena Cummins as Roscommon struggled to get out of their own half. The visitors were unable to capitalise on this, however,

and Finan relieved the pressure with her third free of the day. Aisling Hanly scored a peach from play as Roscommon took total control of the fixture. Further points from Finan, Louise Brady and Ellen Irwin were to follow as Lennon’s side booked their final place in style. Roscommon: H Cummins; N McNamara, S Kenny, A McGrath; R Fitzmaurice, R Brady, S Timon; L Fleming (23), L O’Rourke (1-0); L Shanagher (0-1), C Conway (0-1), N Feeney; R Finan (0-9, 4 frees), A Hanly (0-3), E Irwin (0-1). Subs used: A Curran for Timon, L Brady (0-3, 1 free) for Shanagher, S Hanly for Kenny, S McGuinness for Hanly, K Colgan for McGrath. Referee: Kevin Corcoran Roscommon’s Niamh Feeney in action against Sligo’s Laura Foley during Sunday’s TG4 Connacht Intermediate clash. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh (Mayo)

Mitchels too strong for St. Dominic’s Connacht Club LGFA IFC Semi-Final Castlebar Mitchels 1-13 St. Dominic’s 1-5 St. Dominic’s Connacht adventure came to an abrupt halt in Castlebar on Saturday last as they were well beaten by a strong Castlebar Mitchels side in the Ladies’ IFC semi-final. A somewhat fortuitous goal from Grainne Flynn gave Mitchels the lead after seven minutes and they could have been further ahead but for some wastefulness in front of the posts shortly after.

Dominic’s hit back through Savannah Cassidy before further Mitchels points from Sarah Prendergast and Niamh Hughes put them firmly in control at the first water break. Further points from Flynn and Hughes extended the Mayo side’s lead to six at the interval and the Knockcroghery club had it all to do in the second half. They restarted well, however, and two points from Aimee O’Connor (one free) hauled them back into contention early on before two Hughes’ points reinstated Mitchels’ six-

St. Dominic’s’ Connacht adventure came to an abrupt halt in Castlebar on Saturday last as they were well beaten by a strong Castlebar Mitchels side in the Ladies’ IFC semi-final.

point cushion. This time, it was Dominic’s’ turn to benefit from a rub of the green as Niamh Watson’s effort found the back of the net before the

second-half water break. Any hopes of a grandstand finish were quickly snuffed out by Mitchells, however, as the Mayo club finished strongly to book

their place in the Connacht final. Scorers for St. Dominic’s: A O’Connor (0-4, 3 frees), N Watson (1-0), and S Cassidy (0-1).

Finneran takes Lake County reins Former Roscommon footballer and ladies’ team manager, Michael Finneran, is crossing the Shannon to take the reins of the Westmeath Ladies team, who compete in LIDL Ladies National Football League Division One. Finneran’s appointment was announced at a Westmeath LGFA meeting last week and he will take over from outgoing manager Sean Finnegan, who stepped down following the Lake County’s All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship success. The St. Dominic’s club man will be joined by Marie Kelly as team administrator and Shane Monaghan as strength and conditioning coach.

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

SportsPeople

Strokestown survive late scare to take Junior B title King and Moffatt Roscommon Junior ‘B’ FC Final Strokestown 0-11 Éire Óg 1-7 < SEAMUS DUKE

Strokestown captain Cian Gibbons receives the Gavin Lee Cup from the Lee family at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. (Pic: Roscommon GAA)

The Strokestown team which won the Roscommon Junior ‘B’ title at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. (Pic: Strokestown GAA)

This may have ‘only’ been the junior B final, but Strokestown and Éire Óg provided the small crowd at Dr. Hyde Park with arguably the most exciting club football game of the year last Sunday. In the end, Strokestown were just about the deserving winners but Éire Óg had a glorious change to win it in the fourth minute of injury-time when Shane Jordan fisted Aaron McLoughlin’s pass against the post. Played in perfect weather conditions, scores were hard to come by in the opening half. Strokestown opened up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead by the 15th minute with Evan Moran, Gerry Collins, Robert Regan and Kealan Flanagan on target.

Barry Nolan was the only Éire Óg scorer in the opening quarter. But Strokestown went out of it towards half-time, and points from Shane Jordan and Barry Nolan meant there was only a point between the sides at the break (0-4 to 0-3). Indeed Éire Óg’s cause was not helped when Aaron Woods was black carded by referee Tony Brennan in the 20th minute. The second half was very lively. Barry Nolan levelled the scores on the restart but Strokestown took over after that and scored three points on the bounce by the 42nd minute. But with Paul Freeman winning plenty of possession around the middle sector, Éire Óg were never really out of the game. Barry Nolan pointed in the 44th minute, and with ten minutes to go they scored a super goal. Freeman made a great catch at midfield and he fed Vinny Hannelly, and his excellent pass was converted with aplomb by Shane Jordan. Then in the 52nd min-

ute, when Niall Flanagan scored an excellent point it looked like it would be Éire Óg’s day. But then Strokestown sub Richard O’Beirne took centre stage. He kicked three super points, all from play, to put his side back into the lead by the 59th minute. Strokestown’s best player on the day, Evan Moran, then struck a magnificent free from almost 50 metres to increase the lead in injury-time. Vinny Hannelly reduced the gap to the minimum in the 63rd minute and a minute later Jordan’s fisted effort struck the post and Strokestown had survived to take the title in dramatic fashion. Best for Strokestown were Cian Gibbons, Oisin Cusack, Evan Moran, Robert Regan and ‘supersub’ Richard O’Beirne, while for Éire Óg, Shane Quinn, Paul Freeman, Vinny Hannelly, Shane Jordan and sub Aaron McLoughlin were best. Strokestown: Cathal Feehily; Brian Neary, Robbie Gibbons, Kevin Curley;

Timmy Gibbons, Cian Gibbons, Dylan Owens, Oisin Cusack, Andrew Fahy; Kealan Flanagan (0-1), Evan Moran (0-2, 1 free), Niall Moran; Dan Rogers (0-1), Gerry Collins (0-3, 2 frees) Robert Regan (0-1). Subs: Conor Dolan for Fahy (40), Aaron Convey for Moran (46), Richard O’Beirne (0-3) for Flanagan (49), David McDonnell for Curley (52), Frank Convey for Regan (59). Éire Óg: Jason Horan; James Walsh, Shane Quinn, Sean McDonnell; Aaron Woods, Conor Coleman, Patrick Loftus; Ciaran Lavin, Paul Freeman; Jimmy Flanagan, David McNulty, Padraig Doory; Vinny Hannelly (0-1), Shane Jordan (1-1), Barry Nolan (0-4, 2 frees). Subs: Aaron McLoughlin for McNulty (45), Niall Flanagan (0-1) for J Flanagan (48). Referee: Tony Brennan Man of the match: Evan Moran (Strokestown)

Powerful Athleague conquer Clarinbridge

2020 Connacht Intermediate Camogie Championship Final Athleague 2-6 Clarinbridge 0-6 < BY CIARA DOWD IN CLARINBRIDGE

Athleague became Connacht Intermediate champions for a second time when they overcame the home side in Clarinbridge on Saturday last. Since defeating St. Dominic’s to win their second county final in a row in October, Athleague had been looking forward to testing themselves against top-quality opposition outside of the county. They were deprived of this opportunity in 2020 when Covid led to the postponement of this fixture but finally grasped their chance with both hands last weekend. From the throw-in, Athleague were sharp, energetic, and dominated the early exchanges. Tara

Naughton opened the scoring with a well-taken free in just the second minute. However, Clarinbridge responded well with a free from centre forward Carrie Dolan who proved to be their standout player. Shortly after, Dolan punished Athleague for a series of wides with a long-range free to give the home side the lead with ten minutes played. Athleague’s Rebecca Brennan stood up when needed and levelled matters with a classy score from 40 metres before the first water break. The second quarter saw increased physicality from both sides with Athleague’s midfield partnership of Laura Fleming and Éala Coyle gaining a foothold which resulted in a well-taken 45’ from Tara Naughton. Naughton made a number of important blocks and tackles in the minutes that followed as the visitors upped their workrate. Rachel Fitzmaurice then popped up in midfield to set up Laura Fleming for

Athleague became Connacht Intermediate camogie champions for a second time when they overcame the home side in Clarinbridge on Saturday last.

her first score of the afternoon on 25 minutes. A few minutes later, the crucial score of the game arrived when quick thinking from full-back Niamh Farrell saw the sliotar dispatched to Fitzmaurice and she sent a long, accurate delivery into the Clarinbridge goalmouth. Full forward Fiona Connell-Jones was first to pounce, striking to the net. Carrie Dolan responded with another free for the home side on the stroke of half-time, leaving the score Athleague 1-4, Clar-

inbridge 0-3 at the break. The second half was scrappy in parts but Athleague showed their class with points from Laura Fleming and nifty wing forward Jane Horan within six minutes of the restart. Athleague’s second goal duly arrived in the 45th minute. A Niamh Farrell free found Fleming on the run and she sent a long delivery towards the Clarinbridge goal. Emma O’Rourke reacted quickest to goalkeeper Anna Kilduff’s parry to boot the

ball to the net, sealing Athleague’s victory. Consolation scores from Clarinbridge centre-back Ciara Murphy and another free from sharpshooter Carrie Dolan followed but by that stage, Athleague were home and dry. The final whistle led to joyous celebrations as captain Niamh Conway received the Fr. Lawless Cup on behalf of Athleague. In what was an outstanding team performance it would be difficult to single

out any player but Rachel Fitzmaurice, Laura Fleming, Éala Coyle, Niamh Brandon, Tara Naughton and ‘Player of the Match’ Rebecca Brennan all deserve special mention. Athleague will now take on Kerry’s Clanmaurice in the All-Ireland semi-final on the weekend of December 18th/19th. Athleague: P Daly; N Brandon, N Farrell, C Carr; N Conway, M Tiernan, C Whyte-Lennon; L Fleming (0-2), É Coyle; R Fitzmaurice, R Bren-

nan (0-1), J Horan (0-1); T Naughton (0-2, 1 free, 1 45’), F Connell-Jones (10), E O’Roarke (1-0). Subs used: S Conneely for E O’Roarke (57), J McCormack for J Horan (60). Clarinbridge: A Kilduff; A Byrne, R Bannon, H Keogh; A Hoban, C Murphy (0-1), L Butler; N Murphy, É Niland; E Kennedy, C Dolan (0-5, all frees), C Connolly; S Boland, J Long, N Niland. Subs used: A Whyte for J Long (HT), C Kennedy for S Boland (51).

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

SportsPeople

Faithleach’s go the extra mile to book final spot! AIB Connacht Club IFC Semi-Final St. Faithleach’s 1-12 St. Farnan’s (Sligo) 1-11 (after extra-time) < SEAMUS DUKE

Supporters of St. Faithleach’s have been put through the emotional ringer in no uncertain terms in 2021, and that trend continued at Dr. Hyde Park last Saturday when Wally Burke’s men had just a point to spare over Sligo champions St. Farnan’s in a dramatic but low quality encounter played in bitterly cold and windy conditions. Faithleach’s won their Roscommon semi-final against Fuerty by a point after extra-time and it was the same story in the final against St. Dominic’s so it was no surprise when last Saturday’s

encounter went the same way. But in fairness to Faithleach’s, they responded well in extratime after a splendid goal from the game’s best player, Patrick O’Connor, looked like it would decide the outcome. But important contributions from subs Jonathan Hussey and Darragh Hussey and a couple of excellent points from Diarmuid Murtagh were enough to see them through to the final where they will face either Mayo Gaels or Galway champions Leitir Mór. Playing with the strong wind at their backs in the opening half, Faithleach’s started very well and by the 11th minute they led by 1-3 to 0-1. Conall Kennelly, who was posted at full forward, kicked two marks, Stephen Walsh weighed in with a point from play and in the 11th minute Ciaráin Murtagh stole in to fist Dave Rooney’s high kick to the net. But instead of kicking on, Faithleach’s lost their way after that

Action from the AIB Connacht Club IFC Semi-Final between St. Faithleach’s and St. Farnan’s at Dr. Hyde Park last Saturday. Pic: Mick McCormack

and they were not to score again for 22 minutes. The outstanding Patrick O’Connor began to exert a growing influence on the game for Farnan’s and he kicked two fine points by the 25th minute. Faithleach’s’ plight was not helped when Dave Rooney was black carded for a pull-down in the 23rd minute, and the Roscommon champions were down to 14 men for a ten minute period. In the 28th minute, Farnan’s corner forward Stephen Mulligan pulled first time and the ball flew over the Faithleach’s crossbar when it seemed easier to score a goal. Then in first-half injurytime, Ciaráin Murtagh pointed a long-range free to send the sides in at half-time with the Roscommon men leading by 1-4 to 0-4. With the wind at their backs, the Sligo champions were the better side in the second half. O’Connor kicked three further points in the third quarter (all frees) to help his side into the lead (0-8 to 1-4) before a Diarmuid Murtagh free signalled Faithleach’s first score of the second half in the 52nd minute. Then, as the final whistle came closer, Faithleach’s struck the front when Rooney pointed after a great ball from Cathal Gunn, but O’Connor ensured the game went into extra-time when he pointed from 30 metres in the 57th minute. Playing into the breeze, the Sligo men were handed a great boost O’Connor made a super run into the heart of the Faithleach’s defence and blasted home a great goal in the 62nd minute. But all credit to Faithleach’s; they responded brilliantly. Diarmuid Murtagh hooked over a brilliant point from a difficult angle in the 65th minute and the same player was on target with a free two minutes later, and just before half-time, sub Darragh Hussey scored an excellent point to tie up the scores once again (1-9 apiece) with one period of extra-time to go. Faithleach’s were finally play-

St. Faithleach’s players celebrate at the full-time whistle following last Saturday’s AIB Connacht Club IFC SemiFinal between St. Faithleach’s and St. Farnan’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

ing better football and Diarmuid Murtagh (free) and Mikey Dunne pointed to edge them in front. Finnian Cawley pointed a 30-metre free for the Sligo side, but with a minute to go another sub, Jonathan Hussey, pointed from 25 metres out and the gap was two once again. The Sligo men pressed forward for the goal they needed but all they could manage was a point from David Hallinan in the 82nd minute and Faithleach’s had survived. For Faithleach’s, Adrian Murtagh, Paddy Farrell, and Darren Nerney were best in defence while Dave Rooney did well at times in midfield. Faithleach’s’ best player on the day was Conall Kennelly while there were glimpses of class from Ciarán and Diarmuid Murtagh and subs Jonathan Hussey and Darragh Hussey both made vital contributions. For the Sligo men, Patrick O’Connor was head and shoulders ahead of any of his teammates while Gavin Connolly, Shane O’Brien, Finian Cawley and Stephen Mulligan were also prominent.

Teams and scorers St. Faithleach’s: Michael O’Donnell; Karl Nerney, Mikey Cox, Adrian Murtagh; Paddy Farrell, Darren Nerney, James Browne; Dave Rooney (0-1), Kevin Farrell; Diarmuid Murtagh (0-4, 3 frees), Ciaráin Murtagh (1-1, 1 free), Cathal Gunn; Mikey Dunne (0-1), Conall Kennelly (0-2, marks), Stephen Walsh (0-1). Subs: Brian Murtagh for Walsh (h/t), David Harrison for Farrell (46), Stephen Ormsby for K Nerney (51), Jonathan Hussey (0-1) for Dunne (55), Darrgh Hussey (0-1) for Cox (e/t), Mikey Dunne for B Murtagh (e/t). St. Farnan’s: Fergus Hargadon; Mattie Lang, Shane Molloy, Gavin Connolly (0-1); Mark Devaney, Finnian Cawley (0-2, 1 free), Eamon Kilgannon; Trevor Kilgannon, Kevin McGee; Martin Mulligan, Ciaran O’Connor, Shane O’Brien; Conor Gordon, Patraick O’Connor (1-6, 3 frees), Stephen Mulligan (0-1). Subs: Fionn Connolly for S Mulligan (44), Iarlaith Connor for Mulligan (55), Thomas Cawley for C O’Connor (60), David Hallinan (0-1) for E Kilgannon (62), Martin Mulligan for Lang (e/t), Ronan Molloy for Devaney (e/t). Referee: Michael McGirl (Leitrim)

Stat Attack Red cards: St. Faithleach’s 1 (Mikey Cox – Second yellow 62 mins) St. Farnan’s 0 Black cards: St. Faithleach’s 1 (Dave Rooney 22 minutes) St. Farnan’s 0 Yellow cards: St. Faithleach’s: 7 (Karl Nerney, Mikey Cox (2), Darren Nerney, Conall Kennelly, Cathal Gunn, Brian Murtagh) St Farnan’s 3 (Mattie Lang, Eamon KIlgannon, Patrick O’Connor) Man of the Match: Patrick O’Connor (St. Farnan’s)

Ciaráin Murtagh gets his shot away during last Saturday’s AIB Connacht Club IFC Semi-Final between St. Faithleach’s and St. Farnan’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

St. Faithleach’s manager, Wally Burke, celebrates at the full-time whistle following last Saturday’s AIB Connacht Club IFC Semi-Final between St. Faithleach’s and St. Farnan’s at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 10 December 2021

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