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12 January 2024
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*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement
02
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
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AT H L O N E Ι M O AT E L A N E S B O R O U G H Ι G A LWAY In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate DOLORES*GACQUIN – SOLICITOR fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie any award or settlement
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CONSUMER www.bccsolicitors.ie RIGHTS
I bought a coat which cost me €200. I really don’t like it now and I returned it to the shop last week and asked for a refund. I kept my receipt which proves that I paid €150 for it. The coat is now on sale for €80 and the store manager would only refund me the reduced amount of €80. Please advise me. Your consumer rights in sales are the same as at any other time of the year. You are entitled to expect goods to be of merchantable quality, fit for purpose and as described. If they are not, you are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund. If a shop is prepared to offer a refund, rather than a repair or replacement, then your entitlement is to a refund of the full price and not the reduced sale price. However, if you simply change your mind about a purchase a shop is not obliged to take the item back or refund you your money. Some stores may have a policy which offers refunds in respect of “change of mind” items but if so you are only entitled to the reduced sale price and not the original price paid. Such a policy is entirely a gesture of goodwill and not a legal requirement on the shop.
e l p o e WATCHING P With PAUL HEALY
Oh you fickle man! Don’t tell me you’re suddenly playing darts! I heard you were in our local the other night! So? Well, it’s just you said you were doing Dry January! So? But I heard you were in the pub! Besides, we should be doing these life-affirming CYCLING ACCIDENT things together! I can still be in the pub, even if I’m not having a pint! Pubs are also for people who don’t If you were involved in a cycling drink alcohol, you know! accident contact SoByrne you’reCarolan NOT having a pint during January? Cunningham Solicitors Actually, I am… But you said you were going to do Dry January! You’re so weak! I couldn’t do it unless you signed up too – after all, we’re a team! Huh! (They pause to fondly remember Franz Beckenbauer and JPR Williams, respective legends of football and rugby, both of whom sadly passed away earlier this week) So, if you ARE having a pint, why didn’t you give me a call? Oh I knew you wouldn’t be interested… Since when? Well, I mean, it was just me and a couple of the younger lads… Yeah? … and the board… The board of the pub? Our pub has a board of directors?
Endangered Species The barstool boyos
NO! The dart board! And I knew from our previous chat that you wouldn’t be interested in THAT! Oh you fickle man! Don’t tell me you’re suddenly playing darts! YES! Why not? SO FICKLE! I mean, Luke Littler takes the darts world by storm, and suddenly you’re going around with the young fellas, trying to relive your youth! Well…
I see Eddie the Eagle is appearing on Dancing on Ice. Does that mean you’ll be taking up skating? (Editor: Surely you mean skiing?) NO! Please don’t trivialise this conversation! So, how did it go? The darts? Excellent! I had a 26-dart finish in one game, clinically rounded off with a double one! See you in the Ally Pally next year, pal! (They pause to check if the TV programme ‘Traitors’ is a real-life political drama; it isn’t) Fair play to Luke Littler, but Luke Humphries actually won the darts! True! What a start to the sporting year it was! Then St Brigid’s beat Castlehaven! Yes, a great win! But Castlerea, who deserved to win their semi-final, just lost out! Yes, hard luck Castlerea, but they can be proud of their exploits. By the way, I’m only teasing you about your darts comeback! Enjoy rolling back the years, it’s just not for me! Ah, thanks! I’m from the era of Eric Bristow and John Lowe! I honestly think I could make the current Roscommon team if I practice enough! Well, you do remind me of the late Jocky Wilson just a little… Gifted? Clinical? Super-cool? Nah, nothing to do with darts… you’re fond of a pint, and a likeable character!
It’s been a GOOD week for…
☺
This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway.
St Brigid’s, with the Roscommon and Connacht champions defeating Castlehaven to qualify for the All-Ireland Club SFC final
A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement
Irish actor Cillian Murphy, who won the Golden Globe for Best Actor on Sunday night, this for his lead role in the Christopher Nolan-directed Oppenheimer
Byrne Carolan Cunningham
London senior footballers, this after their shock win over Mayo in the FBD League last Sunday
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☹ PIC OF WEEK: A very happy Donie Hamrock celebrates after St Brigid’s’ victory over Castlehaven in last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Many hospital patients, with hundreds of people being confined to trolleys as they await access to beds in hospitals nationwide
03
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
See Her Elected to host a ‘How to Run for Election’ event in January and February Can you see yourself as a candidate in the 2024 local elections, but don’t know where to start? If you have made up your mind to run for election and want to have a practical toolkit covering everything you need to have a strategy/plan, then sign up for a free in-person event from See Her Elected in January and February 2024. Since 1925 there have only ever been 11 women elected to Roscommon County Council. There are currently four women out of 18 county councillors, but sitting councillors Orla Leyden and Kathleen Shanagher recently announced that they are not seeking re-election in 2024. See Her Elected has called on women all over County Roscommon from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect the communities they serve to put themselves forward for the next Local Elections in June 2024. ‘How to Run for Election: Your Campaign Toolkit, in a Day’ will take place on Saturday, January 20th and will be repeated on Saturday, February 24th in Longford Women’s Link from 11.15 am to 3 pm. Free childcare and free transport from Longford Train/Bus station is being provided as part of See Her Elected’s commitment to removing barriers to women participating in politics. Please
election so please get in touch or attend the free events planned for 2024,” said Mairead. For more information on the January and February events please visit www.seeherelected. ie and register your interest or phone 086 0320455.
Guest speakers
Mairead O’Shea, Communications Manager with See Her Elected, will be one of the guest speakers at ‘How to Run for Election: Your Campaign Toolkit, in a Day’ event taking place in Longford in January and February.
get in touch to register your interest. Refreshments/lunch will also be provided on the day. Saturday, January 20th is now fully booked and a cancellation list is in operation but there are still places available for Saturday, February 24th. Roscommon’s Mairead O’Shea, Communications Manager with See Her Elected, explained that the event is open to women from all over Ireland who are planning to run as candidates in next year’s local elections. “If you want to learn how to become a county council-
lor then come along and meet our panel of experts to get you election-ready. Learn how to put your election campaign team together, election canvassing, campaigning, communications strategies and the all-important confidence and resilience factor to give you the edge. “Longford Women’s Link operates an early year’s childcare service and a mobile creche which means free professional, Tulsa registered childcare services are also available on the day for those who require them. “We are also delighted to be
Programme Manager with See Her Elected, Dr Michelle Maher, will be MC for the ‘How to Run for Election: Your Campaign Toolkit, in a Day’ event taking place in Longford in January and February.
Kathryn McGrath from www. abccoaching.ie will be one of the guest speakers at ‘How to Run for Election: Your Campaign Toolkit, in a Day’ event taking place in Longford in January and February.
able to offer free transport to and from Longford Train/Bus station if required. Refreshments and lunch will also be provided on the day and it’s all completely free of charge”. Independent Cllr Emer Kelly from Ballyforan, became one of the youngest councillors in the country when she was co-opted onto Roscommon County Council in April 2021 at just 21 years of age to fill the vacancy created when Cllr Ivan Connaughton resigned his seat. Cllr Kelly is seeking to be returned to the chamber this year when she goes
to the electorate while sitting Cllr Valerie Byrne will also be seeking re-election. “We are appealing to women all over County Roscommon to consider running for election. The first woman ever elected to the county council was Fianna Fáil’s Teresa Gavin in 1928 for the Roscommon Town area but since 1925 there have only ever been a total of 11 women elected to Roscommon County Council. That’s 11 women in almost 100 years which is a desperately low number! See Her Elected is here to help support women seeking
Speakers for the ‘How to Run for Election: Your Campaign Toolkit, in a Day’ event include Kathleen O’Meara, Mairead O’Shea and Kathryn McGrath. Kathleen O’Meara is a public affairs consultant and a former journalist and politician. She was a member of Seanad Eireann, North Tipperary County Council and Nenagh Town Council before taking up roles in the not-forprofit-sector. Mairead O’Shea is the Communications Manager for See Her Elected. A former journalist and media/PR consultant, Mairead is a former Deputy Editor of the Roscommon Herald. She has vast experience in the political arena and elections, having previously worked as a Parliamentary Assistant for a TD. Kathryn McGrath from www. abccoaching.ie is a Resilience Coach, Trainer and Facilitator who collaborates with See Her Elected.
Roscommon native to run for Senate In an interview on Friday on Shannonside Radio’s flagship Joe Finnegan Show, Boyle, Co Roscommon native, US-based Hilary Beirne, announced he will be seeking a nomination to Seanad Eireann in the National University of Ireland (NUI) constituency. On the show, Hilary spoke passionately about the urgent need for increased political engagement of Irish nationals, particularly those living abroad. “After speaking at the Global Irish Civic Forum in Dublin Castle last year, where I discussed Seanad reforms and the need for better engagement of Irish citizens living abroad, I have been approached to run for Seanad Eireann”, he revealed. In the past year, Hilary has spoken concerning Irish political engagement at the Global Irish Civic Forum, the Inter-Celtic Business Forum in Brittany in France, the Tangible Ireland conference in Lim-
Boyle, Co. Roscommon native, US-based Hilary Beirne.
erick, and at the Golden Bridges award ceremony in Boston. Educated at NUI Galway and NUI Dublin, he holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science and a master’s degree in environmental and occupational health sciences. He also attended Atlantic Technology University (ATU) Mountbellew, formerly the Franciscan Agricultural
College in Mountbellew, Co Galway. He is also a member of the Irish Ad Hoc Committee to protect the Good Friday Agreement in Washington DC, a chairman and founder of the St Patrick’s Day Foundation in NYC, and a member of the executive board at Votingrights.ie, as well as a member of a number of other Irish organisations.
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor
paul@roscommonpeople.ie
THURSDAY Tabloid wars The so-called ‘tabloid press’ isn’t remotely as influential as it used to be, but I still bristled on seeing the large headline in one of the morning papers in a shop in town today. Yesterday it emerged that a man injured in the shooting incident in a restaurant in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve has died, the second fatality arising from that shocking gangland-related attack. This morning, the ‘Irish Sun’ front-page headline read: ‘NOW IT’S WAR’, the paper dramatically alluding to the possibility/likelihood of reprisals. ‘NOW IT’S WAR’ was, I think, an ill-judged, provocative headline; such incendiary-like front pages can create fear and heighten tensions, while unnecessarily giving the criminals the public gangster status many of them thrive on. These days, social media is a bigger problem than hype-loving ‘red tops’ – but this was lamentable and irresponsible journalism.
FRIDAY Remembering David We loved ‘The Rockford Files’, ‘Columbo’ and ‘Kojak’ – and others of the genre too – but ‘Starsky & Hutch’ seemed to capture our imagination in a whole new way. Could the business of catching bad guys be any more exciting? I’m not sure how often – if at all – we daydreamed of being Lieutenant Frank Columbo or Detective Lieutenant Theodopolus (‘Theo’) Kojak. We certainly quoted their catchphrases endlessly: ‘Just one more thing’ (Columbo) and ‘Who loves ya, baby?’ (Kojak). Starsky & Hutch were different. Hooked from the moment we saw that breathtaking opening sequence, we wanted to be them (daft as that may sound). Whatever
about imagining ourselves in their roles, we could not wait to see the show every week, aired (the combination was magical) on the same night as Match of the Day. That opening mesmerised us – our heroes in a car chase through city sidestreets, papers swirling in the air (Starsky finally rolling across the bonnet before overpowering a villain); scrambling down a flight of stairs, falling out of a burning car… David Soul, who died yesterday, played Kenneth Hutchinson (‘Hutch’) while Paul Michael Glaser played his colleague, David Michael Starsky. Soul went on to have considerable success as a singer (‘Don’t Give Up on Us’ and ‘Silver Lady’ stood out). Starsky & Hutch was TV gold. As the closing credits roll for David Soul, his place in TV’s Hall of Fame is assured.
SATURDAY Super Salthill… It’s hard to be within close proximity of Salthill and (if time permits) not pay a call to the quaint old place. And so, having dropped our daughter back to Gal-
way today, I couldn’t resist a quick trip down memory lane… Salthill changes, but Salthill doesn’t change. I largely ignore the minimal changes, instead preferring to pick out favourite old haunts… the distinctive, charming bars, casinos, restaurants and assorted premises’ that have changed very little over the past 40 years. CJ’s is still there, so too Lonergan’s and Killorans (we watched Michael Carruth winning gold at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics in the latter premises). The small casino (near O’Reilly’s Bar & Restaurant) where I naively lost quite a few bob on roulette in my youth, is still there. So too is the landmark Galleon Restaurant (beside the Church), although the boat in the front window, oddly, is gone. Across the road, on the corner of the street, stands Salthill’s biggest casino, ‘Seapoint Leisure’. I popped in for old time’s sake, not because I used to gamble there, but because Fiona and I often took the kids there when they were small, to enjoy the innocent fun activities such as trying to win cuddly toys in the ‘claw machine’. “Can I just have one more euro please?’ is a phrase many parents will be familiar
with from such visits. Today, I note that the casino is now largely dominated by modern-day ‘onearmed bandits’/fruit machines, all very sophisticated now relative to the 1980s and ‘90s. I take a quick walk through… there are many middle-aged and elderly men and women engrossed in their afternoon gambling. Each to their own, I guess! Back outside, a quick walk along the promenade, in front of the majestic sea, as always provides the special feeling one gets in Salthill. It is timeless.
SUNDAY Brigid’s march on Onward then St Brigid’s march, after another quality performance earned them a four-point win over Castlehaven to secure a place in the All-Ireland senior club final for the first time since 2013 (when the Roscommon club so memorably won the title). In the stands in 2013 were daydreaming young boys watching club heroes on the pitch evolve into legends. Could they really have dreamed of perhaps emulating them?
Just over a decade on, and the boys of 2013 are the men of 2024, a beautifully balanced team led by a calm manager in Jerome Stack (who was most impressive in his various media interviews after Sunday’s win). St Brigid’s started brilliantly on Sunday, outplaying Castlehaven to move six ahead. Thereafter, the Roscommon and Connacht champions had a worrying 22-minute spell without a score, that famine partly down to hasty decision-making and loss of composure, while also reflecting the fact that a dogged Castlehaven were growing into the game. Mercifully, St Brigid’s steadied the ship just as the storm was raging at its fiercest – the Cork team closing to within a point. A John Cunningham point was a welcome settler, followed by Paul McGrath’s score, then the penalty award (Ben O’Carroll wisely took a point) that confirmed the win. See our coverage on pages 35 & 38-39.
MONDAY
€1000 Giveaway… Thank you to the hundreds upon hundreds of Roscommon People readers who took the time to enter our popular pre-Christmas ‘€1000 Giveaway’ draw (organised in conjunction with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce). Once again we had a fantastic response. The ten lucky winners – each of whom will receive a €100 shopping voucher – will be selected and contacted over the coming days (with results published in next week’s edition).
TUESDAY Joanna calls it… “It’s cold” said weather forecaster Joanna Donnelly on RTE One (TV) after The News tonight, adding that “the high pressure will stay in charge”. At the end of her broadcast, she announced “Staying cold!” In between, there was some technical talk, but we’d got the message…
07
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
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AY 1 IC D IN RS E, X6 CL THU UB 2 D C F4 Y E R HE N EV T T MO A M CO
THE RENOWNED SYSTEM 10 WEIGHT LOSS PLAN RETURNS TO ROSCOMMON LOSE UP TO 2 STONE IN 10 WEEKS
WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY. WEEKLY CLINIC STARTING FROM THURSDAY, JANUARY 25TH AT The Cube FlexiSpace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon F42 DX61 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. TEL MARTINA: 086-3846302
Fairytale weddings at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon DON’T MISS THEIR JANUARY 14th WEDDING FAIR THIS SUNDAY Let us help you plan the wedding day of your dreams at the Abbey Hotel with the help of our experienced wedding and banquet team. Catering for large and more intimate ceremonies with our luxurious ballroom, private function room upstairs and our idyllic secret walled garden. As a fully licenced civil ceremony wedding venue we cater for romantic outdoor ceremonies with some
dates still remaining for summer 2024. We also have special offers for select 2025 dates. T&C apply. We have been proudly hosting weddings through the generations here at the Abbey Hotel for over 60 years, so you know your
wedding day is in safe hands. A member of the Grealy family will be there to oversee all parts of your wedding day, giving you that added reassurance. Book your wedding showaround today with
our dedicated wedding coordinator Lisa on 090 6666211 and avail of our limited special offers. Let our family look after yours on the most important day of your life. Join us on Sunday 14th January for some complimentary refreshments and meet our recommended suppliers who will have special offers and giveaways on the day! Newly engaged couples are invited to register now to be included in our free wedding fair draw to
Wedding Day style etiquette for Mother of the Bride < …WITH FASHION AND LIFESTYLE BLOGGER GERALDINE GREALY
As Public Relations and Marketing Manager for our family business (the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon), I have watched with great interest the various changes in trends and styles of the many mothers of Abbey brides down through the years. Choosing the perfect outfit is, without doubt, one of the biggest ‘mother of the bride’ responsibilities you are likely to have, so you are best advised to do your research carefully in advance. You may need some guidance before you start the shopping process… COLOUR MATCHING WITH THE BRIDAL PARTY Find out if the bride has a specific theme or preferred colour in mind for you. Some brides like to have the mothers of the bride and groom coordinate with the bridesmaids. Be sure to ask the bride in a discreet way if she has any colour or style preferences for your outfit. Likewise, find out if there are any colours that the bride may want you to avoid. White and vanilla tones are often considered a no-no to wear as they could take away from the bride. Consider the colour choice and how it will look with the wedding party overall. You don’t want all colours of the rainbow in the wedding photo line-up!
CONSIDER WHERE CEREMONY IS Is it at home or abroad, is it an outdoor or indoor ceremony? If it’s an outdoor ceremony, be sure to take a warm, stylish shrug or classic throw to keep you warm. I have often seen mothers of the bride change into a less formal outfit for the later part of the wedding celebrations, and often the stylish high heels are ditched in favour of a more comfy dancing shoe. At the end of the day, it is so important to be comfortable by wearing something that reflects your own individual style and personality. Matching the shoes, bag and headpiece is still a much-practiced piece of etiquette (even for wedding guests) and clever matching of accessories will always enhance the look effectively. Personally, I love pearls – they are a classic and timeless piece of jewellery that give an elegant finish to complete any look. WHY NOT GO FOR NEUTRAL TONES? When in doubt, neutral colours are a great and very safe choice. If the bridesmaids are in blue, then pewter and grey look stunning. If the dresses are blush pink or midnight blue then Metallic neutrals like pewter, copper, matte gold, and matte silver, coordinate well in most situations, without washing you out with traditional dusty rose and powder blues. Reds, silver tones and burgundy shades are probably a fitting colour for a winter or Christmasthemed weddings.
CONSIDER THE LENGTH OF DRESSES Typically, the mothers of the bride and groom should match the length of the bridesmaids’ dresses. Obviously if the bridesmaids are wearing shorter style of dress, then you have the option to go with an above-the-knee skirt, knee length, midi/tea length, or full-length dress. If the bridesmaids are in full-length gowns, then your dress should be floor length, too. A dressy pantsuit is always a good alternative if you are a fuller shape and would rather not have your legs visible. Long coatdresses with bell sleeves are very flattering and stylish, especially on taller ladies. Trends and styles change, and most Irish bridal boutiques are well equipped to advise and style you accordingly. At the end of the day, I advise my clients to factor comfort and practicality into choosing the outfit, and allow their own personality to shine. Tight fitting underwear or ill-fitting headpieces and uncomfortable shoes will only contribute to you not enjoying the day in the way you should. Buying an outfit from a reputable store or boutique is advised, as alterations (if required) can be easily done on site or from a recommended dressmaker. * For further advice, personalised style consultations, or collaborations contact fashion and lifestyle blogger Geraldine Grealy at Geri’s Closet on 086 3276584. You can follow Geraldine at @ggrealy on Instagram.
win a hamper plus some wedding supplier goodies. Email: weddings@ abbeyhotel.ie to register. T&C apply. Free admission on the
day from 2-5 pm with complimentary make-up trials for brides to be. Meet our team of award-winning chefs and experience first hand why the Abbey Hotel remains
one of Ireland’s premier family run hotels and leading wedding venues in the Midlands. Follow us on facebook, instagram and twitter.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
In memoriam: Eddie O’Connor – A giant of both public and private enterprise EMMETT CORCORAN has been looking back on the career of the Elphin native… The renewable energy sector in Ireland and across the globe mourns the loss of Roscommon man, Eddie O’Connor, a trailblazer in the field. Mr O’Connor passed away last weekend, at the age of 76. As the Roscommon People looks back on his remarkable life, his visionary leadership and indelible contributions to the advancement of renewable energy are celebrated and remembered. Hailing from Elphin, Co Roscommon, Eddie O’Connor’s journey was one of passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to sustainable energy. He was a proud alumnus of Elphin Grammar School and later of University College Dublin, where he obtained his degree in chemical engineering and a master’s in industrial engineering, later complementing these with a doctorate in business administration. His academic achievements were the rock-solid foundation for a career that redefined Ireland’s energy landscape. Tributes have been extended across the country and the world, reflect-
ing on Mr O’Connor’s extensive legacy. Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, expressed deep sadness at Mr O’Connor’s passing, lauding him as a true pioneer in the development of renewable energy and a visionary who was always ahead of his time. Bord na Móna to Airtricity In the late 1990s, Eddie O’Connor made a significant career shift, moving from his role as CEO of Bord na Móna to champion renewable energy in the private sector, a decision that marked the beginning of a new era in sustainable energy development in Ireland. He founded Airtricity, which under his leadership became a beacon of innovation, establishing Ireland’s first offshore wind farm. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there; he went on to co-found Mainstream Renewable Power and SuperNode, further cementing his status as a visionary and leader in the niche business sector. Mainstream Renewable Power, under his guidance, grew into a global powerhouse in renewable energy with projects across five continents. His work with SuperNode was equally groundbreaking, focusing on cutting-edge technology to efficiently connect offshore wind production with markets over long distances.
Elphin roots
The late Eddie O’Connor, R.I.P.
As reported by the Irish Times, John Fitzgerald, Chief Executive of SuperNode, captured the essence of Mr O’Connor’s character and contributions, describing him as an: “... amazing person with great intelligence, vision, vitality, courage and resolve”. Mr Fitzgerald continued to remark that everyone at the company was “devastated” by the loss of Mr O’Connor.
Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act, 1998 as amended
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF DRAFT TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION PROGRAMME 2025 - 2029
Section 6 (1) of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1988, (as amended by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009) requires that Housing Authorities for the purposes of preparing a Traveller Accommodation Programme in their functional area, make an assessment of the accommodation needs of Travellers who are assessed under Section 20 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 as being qualified for social housing support, including the need for sites. In accordance with Section 8 of the Act, Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice of our intention to carry out an assessment of the need for Accommodation for Travellers, prior to preparing a draft Traveller Accommodation Programme, 1st January, 2025 to 31st December, 2029. In this regard, you are invited to submit details of any persons, known to you, who are in need of such accommodation from Roscommon County Council or details of the need for sites. Submissions are invited from anyone wishing to be involved in the preparation of the Draft Programme and /or the assessment of housing needs for Travellers including the need for sites. If you or your organizations wish to make a submission please do so in writing or email housing@roscommoncoco.ie, or address to: Ms. Ann McHugh, Senior Executive Officer Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42VR98 on or before Thursday 1st February, 2024 Fiona NiChuin, A/Director of Services, Housing, Culture and International Protection
Locally, Mr O’Connor’s roots in County Roscommon were a source of pride, and his connection to his home town of Elphin remained strong throughout his life. In reading the innumerable tributes being paid to Mr O’Connor, it becomes evident that his dedication to renewable energy was not just a professional pursuit but a personal mission, deeply ingrained in his belief in a sustainable and energy-independent future. Former Midlands correspondent with RTE News, and current author, community worker and newspaper columnist, Ciaran Mullooly said this on the passing of Mr O’Connor: “Eddie O’Connor was a visionary – even in his early days working in the power station in Lanesborough. “I often wonder if Bord na Móna would have started the true process of just transition two decades earlier if he had not left so early. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family.” Eddie O’Connor’s legacy is not merely in the businesses he created or the projects he spearheaded. It lies in the path he blazed towards a greener, more sustainable world. His work inspired a generation of environmentalists and entrepreneurs, and his vision of a renewable future
continues to guide the industry. In paying tribute to the late Mr O’Connor, Minister Eamon Ryan took to X (formerly Twitter) to say: “So saddened to hear of the death of Eddie O’Connor. He was a visionary and pioneer of the renewable energy industry here and across the wider world. His legacy will include all the work he did promoting a European #Supergrid and on the #Supernode. #RIP”. Minister Pippa Hackett also paid tribute to Mr O’Connor, noting his role with Bord na Móna: “Joining the many voices paying tribute to Dr Eddie O’Connor. His work was relevant to the Midlands, through his transformative role with Bord na Mona but it’s his work on the Supergrid concept that will be his lasting legacy. Thank you Eddie. RIP”. The late Eddie O’Connor of Roebuck, Dublin is mourned by his wife Hildegard, children Lesley and Robert, brother, sisters, grandchildren, and a community of colleagues, friends, and admirers. The impact of his life’s work resonates far beyond the shores of Ireland, leaving a lasting legacy in the global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. Eddie O’Connor’s memory will live on, a testament to his extraordinary contributions to environmental stewardship and renewable energy.
Roscommon town loses ‘Clean’ status in 2023 IBAL rankings The final litter survey of 2023 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) shows that Roscommon town has lost its ‘clean’ status and is now categorised as ‘moderately littered’. It is ranked 31st in the ranking of 40 towns and cities nationwide. Longford town is in 27th while Carrick-on-Shannon is ‘cleaner than European norms’ in 8th spot. Maynooth in Co. Kildare claimed top spot and for the first time since surveys began 20 years ago, no area was deemed ‘seriously littered’. IBAL says the impending Deposit Return Scheme will improve cleanliness levels further but is calling for action on coffee cups. The An Taisce report for Roscommon stated: ‘With a number of heavily littered sites and one litter blackspot, Roscommon has fallen down the IBAL league compared to a number of years ago. Some of the poorer sites have been highlighted in previous surveys and yet there has been little notable improvement’.
While litter levels rose slightly nationwide, over 60% of towns surveyed were deemed clean in 2023, with Maynooth edging out Mallow and much improved Sligo to take the title of cleanest town. A surprise finding of the IBAL study was the rise in coffee cup litter, which is now close to peak-Covid levels. Coffee cups were found at over 30% of the 500+ sites surveyed. “We are concerned at potential
delays in introducing a coffee cup levy,” says Conor Horgan. “We believe this action is needed to stamp out a product which is out of step with the circular economy. Irrespective of how recyclable or compostable takeaway cups are, these statistics show too many of them are ending up on our streets”. IBAL says Killarney has benefited from having banned single-use cups last year, a move embraced by the community.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
ST. ANNE’S National School CASTLEREAGH, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45 WN59 PHONE: (094) 962 0482
NOW ENROLLING FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 Our Enrolment Form can be downloaded from our website stannesns.com For further enquiries email: principal@stannesns.com Telephone: 094 96 20482
Crosby welcomes pension scheme announcement
A new flexible pension scheme that will give people the option to work until they are aged 70 in return for higher payments, and which came into effect last week, has been cautiously welcomed by Roscommon county councillor Tom Crosby who says it shows “respect and value” to those who still want to contribute to society in their later years. Announced recently by Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys, the move will see the State pension age remain at 66 years old but will allow workers to defer claiming it and continue working in return for a higher pension of about 5% each year after 66 if they so wish. From this month, the basic weekly rate for the contributory State pension, for someone who has made their full PRSI contributions, will be €277.30 – however, the new system means that a person who continues working until the age of 67 would receive an additional €13 each week, bringing their pension to €290.30 a week. Under the new conditions, 68 year olds will receive €304.80 a week, 69 year olds will receive €320.30 and those aged 70 and over will receive €337.20. Cllr Crosby said: “We are talking here about men and women who have worked their whole lives and enjoyed what they have done – for many, working is not just a way to pay the bills, but it benefits them socially too and is in the case of others their reason to get up in the mornings. “In addition, I believe that forcing people to retire at 66 is failing to recognise the many skills that such a large proportion of our older population still have to offer in their communities and that would be very unfortunate and in fact an insult to these individuals. “Therefore this flexible move which will not only allow people to carry on in employment but also allow those who have not built up enough contributions to receive a full pension to carry on working in order to reach it, is most welcome,” said Cllr Crosby in conclusion.
Callaghan raises road safety and speed concerns on N5 at Lisroyne
Keadue remembers late Rory Lynch
Rory Lynch was born in Arigna and moved to Keadue when his parents bought a bar and grocery business, which is now the O’Carolan Bar. The family business was sold, and they moved across the road to a house belonging to the Regan family just beside St Ronan’s Hall. Rory moved to Shannon, Co Clare, where he set up a very successful Transport and Haulage business. He never forgot his association with Keadue; when the International O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School was founded, Rory contributed generously every year towards sponsorship. In later years when St Ronan’s Hall needed major refurbishing, we appealed once again to Rory for financial help. Again, he was not found wanting and contributed generously. On his recent passing, we wish to pay tribute to a kind and generous man, and we would like to extend our deepest sympathy and to acknowledge our grateful appreciation to Rory’s family. Ar dheis Dè go raibh a anam.
Pictured is the late Rory Lynch.
Quiz invitation to primary schools in Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union area Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union is inviting primary schools in the Athlone and Castlerea area to join our Credit Union Schools Quiz 2024. To participate, contact the credit union to register for the local knockout stage happening at TUS, Athlone Campus on the 28th of January 2024. The winning teams will advance to the regional stage in early March. In this nerveracking clash of wits, they will go head to head with other formidable teams, creating an exhilarating competition. The goal is to reach the Grand Final at the RDS, Dublin in April 2024. Speaking about the quiz, Michael Evans, CEO of Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union said: “The CU Schools Quiz is more than a chance to win prizes – it is an unforgettable journey of teamwork and lasting memories.
Represent your school with pride as you advance from local to regional and national levels, bolstered by the unwavering support of your local community and credit union. The event is also a wonderful opportunity for the children to make friends outside of their schools. “Questions will cover a wide range of topics including geography, history, music, literature and sport and we have no doubt that school children in the Athlone and Castlerea areas will rise to the challenge”. Registration for the 2024 Schools Quiz is now open and local schools and children interested in participating can contact Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union for entry forms and for further information. Closing date for entries is Friday, 19th of January 2024.
At a recent JPC (Joint Policing Committee) meeting, Cllr Liam Callaghan raised the issue of road safety and speed concerns on the N5 at Lisroyne, Strokestown, with the Fine Gael councillor calling for the deployment of a Garda speed van in the area. Cllr Callaghan said he has received numerous calls from residents in relation to speed and road safety on the Tulsk road exiting Strokestown. “The section of road is very built up, with two housing estates, a narrow footpath, and local schools in close proximity. There appears to be total disregard to road signage, in relation to speed and overtaking”. Cllr Callaghan has asked the Roads Policing Unit to consider having the speed van located in the area to help improve safety and control speed. He has also been in contact with the Road Safety Officer requesting flashing speed lights on this section of road. “Anything that would prevent a serious accident should be urgently considered”, concluded Cllr Callaghan.
Thanks from Ballymoe FC
Ballymoe FC would like to give a huge thanks to everyone who so generously supported our annual Christmas Auction. To all who sponsored lots for the auction, everyone who bought items, all the committee who helped organise and worked on the night, thank you. Thanks also to Adrian, Majella and Mairead in Mahon’s Bar for hosting us. And of course a big thanks to the best auctioneer in the world, Seamie Connolly, who gets the best out of everyone and added to the enjoyment of the night. Your support for our club is very important and much appreciated. Massive thanks also to everyone who came out and supported our Run/Walk in Ballymoe on St Stephen’s Day in association with the Roscommon Mayo Hospice Foundation. Thanks to all who helped out with the planning and preparation, to all the stewards who manned the stations, and all that helped with tea and refreshments. Thanks also for the use of the Fr. Flanagan Community Centre. It was a great success, and your support as always is greatly appreciated. We would like to wish everyone a very happy, healthy and successful 2024.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
‘Women in the home’ referendum (ironically) feels more like spring cleaning than real progress which the common good cannot be achieved and (the State) shall strive to support such provision”. At a glance these two statements read incredibly similar, the only major change being the genderneutral language used. And while such a change is progress in the overdue, admin-y, cleaning out the junk press way, the wording used (or rather the wording that wasn’t used) is indicative of a missed opportunity to have this referendum enact actual, significant progress. This part of the current article (and the proposed 42B) quite importantly and explicitly recognises the value of care – however only in a symbolic way. The 2021 Citizens Assembly sought to amend this by recommending the new proposed version outline that the State is obliged to take reasonable measures to support such care. However, the closest the proposed wording gets to this is saying the State will ‘strive’ to support this care, the word ‘strive’ conveniently side-stepping the Government having to take on an actually constitutional responsibility to support care, side-stepping the option of having a tangible standard for State support that carers could rely on in the courts. It is telling that the Assembly’s recommendations went ignored in this regard. It is telling that in discussing this referendum, the State and politicians conflate the significance of what the change would do for women, when a much more significant change would be to ensure State support for family members that provide care – who, overwhelmingly, are women. Because despite progress in societal attitudes on paper, women in general still perform the vast majority of domestic familial duties – in Ireland, 65% of women in opposite-sex relationships have main responsibility for household chores, and are also expected to act as the primary caregiver for children… in addition to working as much as their male partners.
Let’s talk about ... THE ARTICLE 41.2 REFERENDUM (A student’s perspective)
Alannah Ita Healy
For each of us, there no doubt exists a closet space, a press, or a corner in the back of the shed that is piled up with crap, that is long overdue getting sorted and the things in it dispensed with. You can imagine the litany of random items you would find in there, the little relics from years gone by; an Xtra-vision DVD you never returned, someone’s old primary school copybook, a dusty VHS player, an exercise mat from that phase a couple years ago where you swore, really swore, that you were going to get into Pilates. In all the hustle and bustle of keeping an entire house in order, there’s bound to be a couple of forgotten corners that get overlooked, that escape the general upkeep that sweeps through the rest of the home. Over the past several months, as discourse unfolds around the referendum on Article 41.2 regarding ‘women in the home’, this idea – of a house being upkept and evolving over the years but a few areas being forgotten about somewhere along the way – sort of reminds me of how the outdated constitutional clause has kept its place for so long.
Women in the home
Article 41.2 proclaims that “mothers shall not be obliged by economic necessity to engage in labour to the neglect of their duties in the home”, a clause which has understandably been criticised for perpetuating (and indeed constitutionalising) gender stereotypes; establishing domestic duties as a mother’s designated first priority and main responsibility, while making absolutely no reference to the duties of the father. As such, the upcoming referendum, which seeks to change this constitutional clause, is being represented as a big win for women. One need look no further than considering the day voting has been (re)scheduled for – March 8th, International Women’s Day – to see this. But in reality, as much as any constitutional declaration that a woman’s place, by default, in the home is an outdated one, this referendum feels far from groundbreaking. In practice, this is not a clause that routinely affects women in the workplace today in the same way other clauses it copperfastened in the past, like the marriage bar, consistently did. Women’s rights and general support for gender equality have marched on so monumentally since the time of that article’s writing, so much so that even despite its retention over the years, the lived experience of a woman in today’s Ireland is one
which, in practice, benefits from a level of equality miles removed from Article 41.2’s implications. As undeniably problematic and antiquated as it is, Article 41.2 has become a dead letter, and in that sense, the referendum to change it feels sort of like admin, like finally getting around to clearing out that junk press after all these years – except instead of realising you never did return that Xtra-vision copy of The Lion King, it’s realising you never did take back that declaration saying woman belong in the home and not the labour force… oopsies? But in any case, because of how essentially unimplemented the Article is anyways in modern society, a significant amount of women, and people in general, have suggested the upcoming referendum is placatory. And I see where this is coming from. As mentioned, I do think it’s been overexaggerated how big of a ‘win’ this would be for gender equality given the dead letter Article 41.2 has effectually become, and I am suspect of how much certain politicians are presenting it as such, when in reality, while necessary, changing the article is more long overdue than anything – you don’t get points for finally clearing out the back of the press when you were the one who
neglected to do it for (almost ninety) years. Even more so when you consider how vocal opposers of Article 41.2 have been – all the way back when it was written in 1937 through to more recent times, with the Constitutional Convention in 2013, the Citizens’ Assembly in 2021, and the Oireachtas Committee on Gender Equality in 2023. And even more so again when you consider how even now, now that something is finally being done, vital recommendations given by that 2021 Citizens’ Assembly were effectively ignored while drawing up new wording with regards to another key part of Article 41.2.
Recognising the value of care
In addition to the bit about prioritising women’s duty to the home, Article 41.2 also outlines that “within the home, woman gives to the State a support without which the common good cannot be achieved”. The upcoming referendum proposes this be deleted and instead a new article, 42B, be inserted that says care given by family members “gives to society a support without
Upcoming referendum
As much of a pity I find it that the State neglected to listen to the proposed wording with regards supporting care, and as much as I am weary of how much the removal of a dead letter is being touted as a big win or new progress, I do not wish to be misunderstood: come March 8th, I will be voting Yes. The sentiments of Article 41.2 are reflective of an older Ireland, a less equal one – an Ireland in which gender roles and family dynamics were rigid, unshakeable, and founded on totally antiquated, patriarchal ideals. Over the years, it has become a bit of a dead letter, but nevertheless it’s retention in our Constitution is simply not acceptable and certainly not reflective of the ideals of the more progressive Ireland we live in today and the ideals we’re continuing to strive towards. Orla O’Connor, director of the National Women’s Council, perhaps said it best when she commented that a Yes vote “won’t change women’s lives” but “a No vote would be truly retrograde” – if Article 41.2 is an old relic in the back of the closet of the Irish Constitution, perhaps it’s time for some spring cleaning and for the State to fulfil their “duties to the home”.
Is our sleep affected by screen time?
5th class Glenamaddy Community School student Michaela Gillooly is exhibiting her project at the BT Young Scientist competition this week.
Is our sleep being affected by the amount of time we spend on devices? That’s the question posed by 5th year Glenamaddy Community School student Michaela Gillooly who is exhibiting a project in the individual category of this year’s national BT Young Scientist Exhibition. Michaela’s project is titled ‘Sleep EIGHT Feel Great’ and is an ongoing, year-long study to investigate whether our sleep is being affected by our screen time. “I realised the negative effects screen time has had on my own sleep, so I wanted to see if other
people were experiencing the same thing as me” commented Michaela. “Last year, I entered a competition called ‘SciFest’ with this project, running as a group with another student, Evelyn Geoghegan, and we successfully placed first in the senior category”. “I felt so passionate and motivated about the project that I decided to enter it into the BT Young Scientist competition as an individual”, explained Michaela. “My partner chose to not move forward with this particular project and has since successfully qualified for the national final with another entry”.
Speaking about coming up with the idea, Michaela said, “I realised since making the transition from Primary to Secondary school that my sleep has drastically changed. My school (Glenamaddy) is very technologically advanced, so this interested me and I set about trying to see if screen time is having a negative impact on our sleep. “In short, I wanted to see if sleep patterns were affected by screens”, she explained. Michaela exhibits her project this week at the BT Young Scientist Competition, running from January 10th to 13th.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
NEW LOCAL HISTORY BOOK
THE ELUSIVE MRS. WALCOTT An 18th century Entrepreneur and the Rookwood Estate
Aughagad Aghagower
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FUERTY CIVIL PARISH (36)
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Creggs Village
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Killeroran D.E.D.
ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY GALWAY (16)
ATHLEAGUE CIVIL PARISH COUNTY ROSCOMMON (33)
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Funding boost for Isaac! AN amateur athlete based in County Roscommon has received a €1,000 uplift courtesy of Kingspan, a global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions. The Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund launched last year, with support from Irish professional golfer, Shane Lowry, to provide support for grassroots level athletes and community sports clubs, and has already awarded a total of €90,000 to successful applicants across Ireland. As part of the fund, Isaac Oliver, Ballinasloe, has been awarded €1,000, which will help to provide sporting equipment, training and other necessary resources, alongside offering assistance with any campaigns that are currently underway. Playing golf since he was two-years-old, Isaac has a string of accolades to his name, including Munster U-16 champion, Connacht U-14 Order of Merit, and is currently part of the U-16 high performance panel. With a desire to continue progressing in his sporting career, Isaac is planning to use the funding to pay for lessons, travel expenses, equipment and strength and conditioning sessions.
Isaac Oliver, Ballinasloe, who was a recipient of the Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund.
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newsbriefs Christmas Giving Tree event in Castlerea
Happy Feet Childcare After School Club are holding their Christmas Giving Tree event on Sunday, January 14th, in St Patrick’s Church, Castlerea, from 9 am to 1 pm. People are being asked to bring along any unwanted Christmas gifts – chocolates, sweets, toys, etc – for donations, which will be made to St Vincent de Paul and Castlerea Family Resource Centre. For more details, please contact Ashling on 085 8680678. Donations may also be dropped directly at the afternoon club, located at Tarmon NS.
Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy
A Special Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy, Athlone, on Thursday, January 11th, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr Joseph Ukut. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome to attend.
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12
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
FRANK
BRANDON
FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...
Chatting about the ‘good old days’ at the start of a new year Our man Frank on a nostalgic chat with some fellow ‘old-timers’; A close call for airline passengers; In praise of Tommy Fleming… It’s Saturday night as I write, and a few of us older gentlemen – all bar one of us being in the pension-plus bracket – are having a quiet pint in Mikeen’s. As can often happen, talk drifts back to what we old-timers like to call the ‘good old days’. Now I have sometimes mentioned the fact that Creggs literally had everything that anyone could want in those days of the 1950s and ‘60s, but as we talked on Saturday night I realised just how much our little village actually had.
Pat Cunningham’s shop literally was a one-stop shop! On the ground floor, there was a hardware, a grocery and a pub, while upstairs was Creggs’ answer to Brown Thomas, with a very exclusive ladieswear department, where only the very best of up to date fashion was available. Out the back you could buy all kinds of farm feed, briquettes and bags of coal, and if you were heading off to the great world up in the sky you could even get fitted for your coffin. There used to be a saying one time that you could get everything from a needle to an anchor in old hardware shops and there is no doubt that in Cunningham’s shop you pretty nearly could. And the funny thing is that they weren’t alone – Chrissie Kilby, John Featherstone , Hansberry’s and Mick Roarke all had shops that sold much more than groceries alone, while
Lizzie Connaughton’s shop was more a sweet and ice cream one, and Maureen Pigott’s and Mrs Tommies were more or less out and out public houses. For a young child of that era, I have three outstanding memories. The first was the six-penny ice cream that Baby Boyle would give us when she worked in Lizzie Connaughton’s! There was more than half a block of ice cream in each one. Across the road in Roarke’s, Sarah would (for some reason) take pity on me and supply me with loads of free sweets – and up in Chrissie’s there was no end to Tommy Healy’s generosity when it came to doling out the penny sweets. And as we talked about old times and customs, we once more touched on the long forgotten art of thumbing. Every one of us had stories of adventure, drama and near-disasters
to tell. I realised that I had travelled the length and breadth of the country by thumb, from Listowel, Dundalk, Westport and Galway (among other places) back home to Creggs. The truth is we wouldn’t think twice about heading off for anywhere with just a thumb to get us there. There were no mobile phones back then, but we were undeterred, and I suppose it was the accepted way to travel. One late night in Galway I discovered that my chauffeur was otherwise occupied, and when he hadn’t turned up after two o’clock, I decided to thumb home. I walked out as far as Loughgeorge and just as I was about to head off towards Turloughmore and Abbey, the Johnny Flynn Showband van pulled up and offered me a lift to Tuam, where the band was based. They were on their way home from playing at a dance in
Limerick and as there wasn’t much traffic about at that hour, I gratefully took the lift. Sadly, that was the last lift I got, and, having gone through the soles of my shoes as I made my way down Checker Hill outside Dunmore, when finally I stumbled and limped in through the door of our house on the Sunday morning, my father was headed out to second Mass at 11.30 am. It had taken me about nine and a half hours, but despite that ordeal, it didn’t put me off. I was to clock up many, many more miles around our country’s roads before I eventually had to ‘hang up’ my thumb. Nowadays people are afraid to thumb at all, and even if they did, drivers would be fearful of picking anyone up, so the thrill and excitement of the journey will never be experienced by any of our modernday youth – more’s the pity.
Talented and humble: in praise of Tommy
Last week a Japan Airlines Airbus collided with a Coast Guard aircraft
Airline disaster averted For as long as I can remember, Japan has been at the cutting edge of technology. Everything to do with the modern world of computers seems to have originated in that Eastern Asia country. And so it is all the more extraordinary that in a country of such technological brilliance, the potentially disastrous air crash last week on the runway of Haneda Airport could occur. In case you had yourself cut off from all world news, a Japan Airlines Airbus collided with a Coast Guard aircraft as the bigger plane came in to land, and, remarkably, while five of the six people on the smaller Coast Guard plane were killed, all 379 passengers and crew of the JAL jet escaped, even though their craft was com-
pletely burnt out. It seems that the amazing discipline of the passengers (most of whom were Japanese citizens), as they obeyed the instructions given by the crew and left the plane in an orderly fashion, contributed to the unbelievable escape, but it also goes to show that no matter how perfect the systems are, human error can still cause maximum damage. It appears that the pilot of the Coast Guard plane had been told to hold his position and not taxi for take-off, but he inadvertently ventured into the flight path of the packed airliner and could have caused a disaster of a monumental scale. A couple of days later over in Portland, a huge part of the fuselage of an eight-
week-old Boeing 737 Max blew out of the plane at a height of 16,000 feet. That incident remarkably resulted in no loss of life; it seems that the fact that the plane had a long way to go to its cruising height may have prevented another potential catastrophe. Anyway, while I’m sure there will be umpteen investigations into the cause of the blow-out, I would suspect that human error will also come into it. I would hazard a guess that some lad forgot to tighten a few rivets and left something loose, but if ever there is a lesson in something, it is that nothing anywhere is safe from human error – fasten your seatbelts and hope all the bolts are properly tightened!
A few years ago, Carol and myself took a day trip to the beautiful Co Sligo seaside town of Enniscrone, and after walking a while on the beautiful, windy and sandy beach, we called into a supermarket at the top of the town for a little something from their lovely deli department. We got our stuff and headed to the coffee machine where there was a little queue, and as can happen in small towns, Carol got into a chat with the fellow who was ahead of us. As it happened, the fellow in question, who was a thoroughly nice guy, was singer Tommy Fleming. Over the Christmas just gone by he was literally popping up everywhere. I don’t know how many times he was on the telly over the last couple of weeks, but I saw at least four totally different concerts including one from the lovely Belleek Castle near Ballina. There is no doubt that Tommy is one of the best singers we have in Ireland and it’s obvious that he is in huge demand for concerts in every conceivable type of arena. I have to say that as we talked to him that afternoon in Enniscrone, you would never have known that he was such a superstar. And that is the biggest compliment I can pay him as a person.
As a singer, he is supremely talented and has a hugely committed and enthusiastic following – and after hearing him so often recently, I am now one of them.
And finally… Out here in Creggs we are fortunate to have a brilliant historical society – the Kilbegnet Historical Society – who are constantly bringing different events to the beautiful heritage centre in the village. Larry Kilcommons, who has been involved in it for what seems like donkey’s years, tells me that on Friday January 19th, Mairtin O’Dufaigh (Udar) will give a talk on the life and times of the Great Emancipator Daniel O’Connell, starting at 8 pm. One of the great figures of Irish history, O’Connell is one of the most important and interesting of all our leaders. If you have any interest in history at all, be in Creggs in the Heritage Centre, on Friday, January 19th, at 8 pm sharp!
for now ’Til next week, bye
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
NewsPeople
The Four Courts Explosion in 1922 – putting the record(s) straight For over a hundred years now, the general myth still prevails that the public records held in the Four Courts were destroyed by the anti-Treaty garrison by deliberately detonating a large mine in the Public Records office before they surrendered in June 1922. This false narrative was propagated by the Free State authorities immediately after the Four Courts buildings were surrendered by republicans and taken over by government troops. Historians, academics and frustrated family researchers have believed this story for generations; that the archival material was meticulously mined with explosives and purposely detonated, thereby destroying centuries of census records and other data. To correct this version of events that led to the destruction of the archives, one must first be familiarised with the layout of the Four Courts. The site is enclosed in an area of roughly six acres, sided by Chancery Street to the north, King’s Inn Quay and the Liffey to the south, Chancery Place on the east and Church Street on the west side. The complex actually comprises four separate buildings; the building with the familiar facade fronting onto the Liffey contains the main entrance, the dome and the east and west pavilions. Immediately to the rear of this building, running parallel in an east-west orientation, is another building of similar size, and this is where the anti-Treaty garrison had their headquarters. Again, to the rear, and close to the headquarters block, was a much smaller building and this unit contained the Land Registry Office. To the west of the last two buildings mentioned and facing on to Church Street, was situated the Public Records Office. This is where the census data and treasury records were stored.
What really happened The purpose of this article is not to argue the rights and wrongs of the initial occupation of the Four Courts in April 1922 by Rory
O’Connor and the anti-Treaty Republican forces. But the forensic details of what really happened to the public records during the siege of the buildings in the last days of June 1922 needs to be explained. The object of the following study is to counter what Michael Fewer called ‘Free State propaganda’ in his article ‘What caused the ‘great explosion’?’ in History Ireland, July/ August 2019. The anti-Treaty garrison set up their headquarters in the north block; this was the building to the rear of the main front structure. It was also in this area that they stored their stock of explosives, as it was felt this was a more secure site in that it wouldn’t be in the line of artillery fire. In the Public Records Office, the garrison had established their engineering section for the manufacture of military ordnance; it was here also that munitions were stored. The bombardment of the Four Courts by Free State forces commenced at 4.15 am on the morning of June 22, 1922. Initially the front of the courts building was the target of the gunners, but later a battery at the west end of Hammond Lane began shelling the west facade of the Public Records Office. As a result, the wall and railings along Church Street were smashed and the whole side of the building suffered severe shelling from the 18-pounder gun. The continued pounding of shells against the exterior wall of the Records Office caused a large breach to be made and on day two of the siege, troops entered and took possession of the building. The stock of munitions held there was removed by the soldiers. The shelling and firing of rifle grenades into other parts of the complex caused fires to break out. The north block of the Four Courts, which was the headquarters of the anti-Treaty garrison, had caught fire, and the flames were spreading towards the west part of the building, where the stash of explosives was stored. The intense heat from the fire
when it reached the stash caused the gelignite to deflagrate. This resulted in the explosion that damaged the west end of the HQ block and caused the big fire that spread to the adjacent, but separate, building that held the Records Office, destroying all the priceless records. The Dublin Fire Brigade, although ordered not to enter the complex, could have fought the blaze in the Records Office from Church Street and Chancery Street. If the fire had been fought, a sizeable amount of records could have been saved.
Misinformation The actual setting off of this explosion has been the centre of misinformation and falsehood since 1922. The official version of events at the time related that a huge store of explosives was deliberately detonated in the cellar of the Public Records Office, thereby blowing the archives sky-high over Dublin. This story is untrue as the explosion didn’t happen in the Records Office, but in the block where the garrison had their headquarters. If what was claimed – that the huge stock of gelignite was electrically detonated – the blast would have demolished the Records Office and all the other buildings in a large area around it. The Records Office, although gutted by fire, was almost intact structurally, which proves that the explosion didn’t happen there and it wasn’t set off deliberately. The question now has to be asked: who is to blame for the explosion – was it the Republican garrison that stored the matter in their headquarters, or was it the forces that shelled the building? Some observers are quick to put the blame on the anti-Treaty forces. Looking at the situation now a hundred years later one has to say was there not another way to end the occupation. It has been suggested that Churchill had threatened the Provisional government that the British would dislodge the garrison if the Free State didn’t do
The dome after the roof collapsed.
it. But he was overruled by wiser counsel who warned that to do this would unite the pro and antiTreaty elements in the country. This is where the British bluff should have been called and the Four Courts occupation could have been sorted by other means and so preventing the destruction of the public records. As a matter of interest, the census records destroyed in the Four Courts dated from 1821 to 1851.
The census records of 1861 and 1871 were destroyed in 1877 by order of the UK government. The later census records of 1881 and 1891 were pulped during WWI when there was a scarcity of paper! The 1901 and 1911 census records survived and were released early and are available now to view online. As there was no census data gathered from 1911 to 1926, this author is of the opinion that a little
bending of the rules should apply now and have the 1926 data released early, at the end of 2024. While it would be a bold move, it would not have the impact of the destruction of the 1861 and 1871 files or the pulping of the 1881 and 1891 papers, or indeed wouldn’t be as explosive (no pun intended) as the 1922 Four Courts fire. An Staraí Áitiúil (The local historian)
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Business
RHS Home Care announces 490 job vacancies, expands into Leitrim & Sligo As part of exciting expansion plans for 2024, local company RHS Home Care has announced it has 490 immediate job vacancies due to a significant surge in demand for its services. Established in 1996, RHS Home Care is a not-for-profit cooperative which has been providing home support services for 28 years in the West of Ireland. Due to increased demand for its services, RHS is now expanding into counties Sligo and Leitrim as part of its home-first approach to care. Already, the
company provides its service to counties Roscommon, Galway and Mayo. General Manager Patrick Towey said that the company has experienced a significant surge in demand for its services across the counties it provides services in. Accordingly, he added, “we are delighted to be adding 490 new roles in order that we continue to provide the highest standards of care to vulnerable people and support them to remain at home”. Home is proven to be the best and safest place for someone to remain as long at the correct
supports are in place to assist them in maintaining a comfortable safe place. Mr Towey added: “Our recruitment drive for communitybased care assistants will be completed throughout Roscommon, Mayo, Galway, Sligo and Leitrim over the course of 2024”.
Specifically, the company has 100 immediate vacancies in Roscommon, 120 in Galway, 120 in Mayo, and a combined 150 in counties Leitrim and Sligo. Mr Towey said: “When RHS Home Care was established in 1996 it was not envisaged that the project would grow to employ nearly 400 people.
Initially, the Cooperative trained 30 people through start-up funding. “To date, the Cooperative cares for nearly 1000 clients across three counties and we are the only home care cooperative of our kind in Ireland. “The priority of RHS Home Care is the client. Since the
beginning, it has always been about quality care and not financial gain – that is what sets RHS Home Care apart from commercial home care companies. “Over the last 28 years of providing care and compassion in the community we know we offer the best model of home support services – second to none. We enable people to maintain their independence in the comfort of their own homes within their communities”. *For more on these job vacancies, see www.rhshomecare.ie or email: jobs@rhshomecare.ie
Record-breaking year for Ireland West Airport in Knock < EMMETT CORCORAN
US President Joe Biden pictured arriving at Ireland West Airport in Knock in 2023.
‘New routes mean huge spin-off for County Roscommon’ Fine Gael TD, Frank Feighan, a representative of Sligo-Leitrim, which includes a large amount of North Roscommon, welcomed the good news: “On a personal level, I use Knock Airport quite a bit to travel to the UK for work and further afield on the occasional holiday with my family. “We in Government are very proud of the entire team at Ireland West Airport (Knock). In particular, Joe Gilmore (MD) and his team have to be commended on their continued commitment to delivering more for our regional airport. “I’m confident that the required investment will continue to be allocated by the Government to help the airport grow and achieve its goals. The continued hard work of all stakeholders including management, staff, local authorities and the Department (of Transport) alongside airlines and customers, etc. will ensure success for the airport into the future”. Councillor Liam Callaghan (Fine Gael, Castelrea/Tulsk) said: “I am delighted to see passenger numbers increase at Ireland West Airport to the record numbers released this week. “Ireland West Airport is proving very popular with passengers travelling to and from the region, particularly in County Roscommon. The new routes mean there is a huge spin-off to County Roscommon and the wider region”. According to Councillor Callaghan, over 60% of inbound passengers travelling through Knock visit Roscommon either on business or tourist-related activity. Concluding his remarks, Councillor Callaghan said he was and is delighted that in 2015 “Roscommon County Council joined with six other County Councils to acquire a 17% equity share in the airport which is offering a major economic stimulus and service to County Roscommon and the wider North West region”.
2023 has emerged as a landmark year for Ireland West Airport (Knock), marking its highest passenger traffic ever recorded. With a 13% increase in passenger numbers – reaching 818,000 – the airport surpassed its previous 2019 record of 807,000. This growth reflects the airport’s expanding influence, now connecting to 21 international destinations through three of Europe’s major airlines: Aer Lingus, Lauda Europe, and Ryanair. UK routes a major driver A significant driver of this growth was the UK routes, which accounted for 665,000 passengers. In a press statement, the regional airport explained that these figures were bolstered by Aer Lingus’s new daily service to London Heathrow, offering connections to over 80 global destinations. Ryanair also recorded its busiest year at the airport, carrying over 730,000 passengers – a 3% jump from 2022. Key routes contributing to this
growth included Liverpool, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Manchester. Destinations on the rise The airport witnessed a surge in traffic to cities across Europe, with 148,000 passengers travelling to destinations like Alicante, Barcelona, Faro, Majorca, Malaga, Milan, Cologne, Lanzarote, and Tenerife. This represents a 7% increase over 2022, underscoring the growing appeal of European leisure destinations. When compared to the previously busiest year of 2019, short-haul traffic to the UK soared by 19%, while trips to European sun and city destinations rose by 16%. Operational highlights and efficiency August stood out as the busiest month last year, with over 102,000 passengers. The airport experienced its busiest day on August 29th, with 4,500 travellers. Over the course of 2024, the airport managed over 6,000 flights, with less than 10 flights affected by adverse weather – the lowest figure in its history.
Executive insight Arthur French, Chairman of Ireland West Airport, expressed delight at the robust recovery and record-setting performance in 2023: “We are delighted to have seen such a strong recovery in passenger travel in 2023, which has resulted in a record year for the airport, which is great news for tourism and job creation, both at the airport and in the wider economy”. Also noting the significance of the successful visit to the airport of US President Joe Biden in 2023, Mr French extended gratitude to government representatives, customers, airline and tour operator partners, stakeholders, tourism groups, and local authorities for their support. He also commended the airport staff for their dedication and diligence: “We will continue to work with our stakeholders and airline partners over the next 12 months as we strive to further grow our suite of routes from the airport whilst continuing to invest in our airport transformation programme”.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
FARMING & RURAL LIVING
Roscommon property prices fall by €2k in Q4 2023 Property prices in Roscommon dropped by €2,000 during the last quarter of 2023, according to the latest MyHome.ie Property Price Report. The report for Q4 2023, in association with Bank of Ireland, shows that the median asking price for a property in the county is now €167,000. This means prices overall have risen by €2,000 compared with this time last year. Asking prices for a threebedroomed, semi-detached house in the county rose by €2,500 over the quarter to €152,500. This means that prices in that segment have risen by €7,750 compared to this time last year. Meanwhile, the asking price for a four-bedroomed, semi-detached house in Roscommon rose by €31,000 over the quarter to €200,000. This price is up by the same amount compared to this time last year. There were 153 proper-
ties for sale in Roscommon at the end of Q4 2023 – a decrease of 25% over the quarter. The average time for a property to go sale agreed in the county after being placed up for sale now stands at nearly two and a half months. Speaking about the report’s findings nationally, the author of the report, Conall MacCoille (Chief Economist at Bank of Ireland) said, “If asking prices were under pressure at the start of the year as the market adapted to a new interest rate environment, the picture at year end was very different. “Continuing supply issues meant that the market heated up again and by year end, we saw once again that asking prices nationally were up over 4% over the year as a whole. Furthermore, we are seeing properties being sold for 4% over asking prices compared with 1% at the start of the year, indi-
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cating a more competitive market. “Ireland’s buoyant labour market has meant that high interest rates have not had a negative impact on property prices. Indeed, Revenue estimates that there has been a 50% rise since 2022 in the number of tax units (single or
jointly assessed couples) with incomes exceeding €100,000. “As for 2024, our view is that the most likely outcome is another single digit rise in house prices over the course of the year. There will again be competing pressures on prices coming from elevated rates
of interest on the one hand and continuing supply shortages on the other. If anything, the rise may be sharper given the supply issues and the possibility – despite mixed signals from policymakers – of interest rate reductions happening at some point during the year”.
Housing asset management system launched in Roscommon All roads led to Castlerea recently as Roscommon County Council became the first county in Ireland to pilot a new state-of-theart software programme, which will accurately record the Council’s housing stock conditions and also support a Housing Asset Management and Private Rental Inspections system. The system is developed
Martin Connolly
by the company +Addjust, whose CEO, Clareman Padraig Neylon, was on site for the initial pilot. Also at the pilot launch was Tipperary man David Whelan, Housing ICT project lead with the LGMA who will be overseeing and rolling out the project to all 31 local authorities over the coming two years.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
FARMING & RURAL LIVING COUNCILLOR
ANTHONY
WALDRON
Email: anthonywaldron@mail.com
SUPPORT LOCAL – BUY LOCAL
Cllr. NIGEL
DINEEN INDEPENDENT
BALLINTOBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Email: nigel.dineen@hotmail.com
CLLR. LIAM CALLAGHAN
LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR BOYLE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT Contact me with any issues on 086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie
Tourism Ireland launches 2024 marketing plan
Tourism Ireland launched details of its marketing strategy and plan to promote the island of Ireland overseas in 2024, at a recent event attended by Tourism Minister Catherine Martin and around 550 tourism industry leaders from around the country. Tourism Ireland aims to increase the overall economic value of overseas tourism to the island of Ireland, growing revenue by an average +5.6% per year over the next six years to 2030. The organisation will also sustainably support the economies of communities across the island, growing revenue to our regions outside of the peak season by an average +6.5% per year to 2030. This year, Tourism Ireland will roll out an extensive and targeted programme of activity with a marketing budget of €70 million. Tourism Ireland believes that 2024 offers significant opportu-
nity for overseas tourism. Ireland has an award-winning tourism product, a committed industry, and there are excellent relationships in place with the international travel trade. There are opportunities to grow revenue, especially outside of the peak season when there is capacity ready to be filled. And there are lots of exciting and inspiring stories to tell potential overseas visitors – particularly about offseason events such as Halloween, which originated on the island of Ireland around 2,000 years ago. Tourism Ireland will play a vital role in 2024 to meet these opportunities. Using data-driven marketing, the organisation will remain nimble, serving the right message to the right audience at the right time – thus stimulating demand from high value overseas tourists and matching demand to supply. Tourism Ireland will fo-
cus on tourists with ‘value adding tourism traits’ i.e., those people who have funds to travel, who prize memorable experiences and tend to travel around regions and across seasons. Speaking at the launch, Tourism Minister Catherine Martin said, “The Government remains fully committed to this vitally important industry and to strengthening tourism as a fundamental part of our economy for the long-term. Budget 2024 has maintained additional funding of €10 million for overseas marketing of Ireland as a leading holiday destination. “Tourism Ireland’s work overseas supports, and is supported by, other areas within the remit of my Department. For example, the portrayal of culture and sport in Tourism Ireland marketing communications overseas can play an important role in helping potential visitors to envisage and
appreciate some of the unique aspects of a holiday on the island of Ireland and recognise the island as a top location for sporting events. “My Department is progressing the development of a new national tourism policy framework that will mainstream sustainability – environmental, economic and societal – across the entire tourism sector. The framework will shape how our tourism industry develops into the future. In this regard, while I want to see the sector grow, I want it to do so in a manner that is consistent with our broader sustainability targets and ensures that Ireland will be a brand leader in sustainable tourism. “I am delighted that sustainability underpins Tourism Ireland’s strategy in keeping with the objectives of our new Tourism Policy direction”.
Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice@oireachtas.ie
Michael
Fitzmaurice TD Mobile: 086 1914565
Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie
Cllr. Laurence FALLON
Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.
Shannon Basin Cllr. John Radio Club AGM KEOGH
M: 086 8575512 E: cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie Shop local, support local, stay local, stay safe!
Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council
Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 6440534 cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie
Shannon Basin Radio Club held its 2023 AGM on Friday, December 8th, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. The club is an amateur radio club affiliated with the Irish Radio Transmitters Society. Club members are primarily from Roscommon, the west, and midlands of Ireland, but membership is open to all. The vibrant club activities cover a wide range of amateur radio-related areas – examples include attempting to make as many contacts
as possible from hilltop locations using a temporary radio station that is set up on the day and communicating via satellites. The club also help teach scouts and other groups about wireless communications. The club’s work involves a blend of fun activities and demonstrates how science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics come together to make radio communications possible. At the recent AGM, the club was delighted to host Enda Broderick, President of the Irish
Radio Transmitters Society, as guest of honour. The elected club officers are Patrick O’Connor (Chairperson), Owen O’Reilly (Secretary), Anthony Dolan (Treasurer), Keith Nolan (PRO), Marty Grady and Daniel McDowell (Youth Officers), and Tom Nevin (Safety Officer). Anyone interested in the hobby and Shannon Basin Radio Club are more than welcome to contact the club and learn more at sbrc.ie. Further information about the national society for Ireland may also be found at irts.ie.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
FARMING & RURAL LIVING
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Alice Mansergh (Chief Executive Designate of Tourism Ireland, left) and Tourism Minister Catherine Martin pictured at the launch of Tourism Ireland’s 2024 marketing plan in Dublin. Pic: Damien Eagers, Coalesce
‘Our aims for 2024’
Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive Designate of Tourism Ireland, said, “2023 was the first full year of trading for tourism since the pandemic. Tourism Ireland was active throughout the year, with an extensive and targeted programme of activity marketing the island of Ireland around the world. “In 2024, our aim is to increase the value of overseas tourism to the island of Ireland, sustainably supporting economies, communities and the environment. We
will do so by inspiring overseas visitors and strengthening strategic partnerships. Our message is that the island of Ireland has so much to offer across regions and seasons. We will be showcasing iconic reasons to travel here, expanding people’s bucket lists from best-known spots to our hidden gems. It’s an exciting year ahead, as this year marks the 10th anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way, providing Tourism Ireland with another great hook to showcase
the iconic route. “Whilst there is positive trading post-Covid, we know the recovery in our industry is not evenly spread and tourism continues to face headwinds. Tourism Ireland will remain flexible and agile to face the changing environment of the future. We will work to mitigate any challenges as we shape demand to fill available capacity right across the island and throughout the year. Through enhanced consumer targeting and
messaging, we will win the hearts and minds of potential overseas visitors and grow the value of overseas tourism. “Our strong partnership with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism NI is foundational, pairing product development with our overseas marketing and collaborating on key projects and activities like the 10th anniversary of the Wild Atlantic Way, Home of Halloween, Business Events and sustainability certification”.
ALL CREATURES
Veterinary Clinic & Shop
Lanesboro Street, Roscommon
Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY
087 2596055
Pictured at the recent AGM were (back row) Anthony Dolan, Andy McCarthy, Allyn Hanlon, Mark Condon, Fergus Millar, Marty Grady, Mark Chapman, Tom Nevin, Owen Reilly, and John Walsh, and (front row) Pádraig Naughton, Joe McCormack, Keith Nolan, Paul Raftery, Enda Broderick (IRTS President), Patrick O’Connor, and Cyril Moriarty.
For the best care for your animal, large and small.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
FARMING & RURAL LIVING 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 tested in 2016/2017 are now due re-test
Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083
Crean & Co
Accountants & Tax Consultants
Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6626680 Email: info@creanaccountants.ie
DEAD & WORN-OUT ANIMALS
Ireland’s lethal complacency TOM ROGERS on the roads – urgent Your LOCAL Collector – Guaranteed lowest price wake-up call is needed Contact Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344
Reilly& Co. Chartered Certified Accountants
Book Keeping l Accountancy l Taxation l
T: 094 9620920 – E: reillyacca@gmail.com Barrack St., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon
ROSCOMMON
AGRICULTURAL
SHOW Will be held in Hannon’s Grounds, Athlone Road, Roscommon
THE SHOW WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, 17th AUGUST 2024 Classes for Horses, Cattle, Ponies, Sheep, Dogs, etc.
Best Dog Section in the County - 2 free classes Under 12 years: 1-Boys 1-Girls
• TROPHIES FOR ALL CLASSES
Big Section + Free Kids events on the day Phone Damien Hannon on: (086) 8509845 or Christy Tully PRO (086) 2209338 for further details
OPINION
< EMMETT CORCORAN
For years, we in Ireland had been marching forward in the battle against road deaths. It seemed we were on the right track, turning the tide on drinkdriving through successful road safety campaigns. To many of us, including myself, the thought of driving after a few drinks was alien. In my home town of Strokestown, a few pints meant a walk home or a call to a trusted hackney. Driving wasn’t an option. But today, something is amiss on Ireland’s roads – there appears to have been a dangerous shift in mentality, especially among the younger and older generations.
The statistics The latest figures from An Garda Síochána are a cold splash of reality. In 2023, until December 27th, we witnessed 181 fatalities on our roads, a grim increase from 154 in 2022 and 140 in 2019. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about lives lost and families devastated. And folks, the numbers are heading in the wrong direction. The opening days of 2024 have been stark too in terms of
fatalities on our roads. As a nation, we seem to have regressed, and been lulled into a dangerous complacency. The ‘It won’t happen to me’ attitude is back with a vengeance. Some younger and, indeed older drivers, perhaps feeling invincible, are pushing the limits, treating drink-driving laws as mere suggestions. This mentality, coupled with a growing trend of drugdriving, is a ticking time bomb on our roads. In the most literal sense of the phrase. The stats are clear: most fatalities occur on rural roads, at night, and involve young men. This isn’t about pointing fingers, but acknowledging a worrying pattern. The idea of ‘nursing it home’ after a few drinks might seem harmless until it isn’t. The risks are real, and the consequences are often fatal. And let’s not forget drug-driving – an unspoken scourge that flows as freely as the drinks in our bars and clubs. I’m not here to preach or claim moral superiority. I, too, have made my fair share of youthful mistakes, but driving under the influence was never one of them. The truth is, when inebriated, our decisionmaking faculties falter, risks seem trivial, and
the potential for disaster skyrockets. It’s time for a collective introspection. If 2024 is to be the year we tackle this issue head-on, we must start by addressing the prevailing attitudes towards drink and drug driving. This isn’t just about the individual – although it begins with accepting the personal responsibility associated with the actions we take or fail to take – it’s a societal issue that demands a societal response.
The human cost Let’s consider the human cost – not just the fatalities, but the survivors, the families left to pick up the pieces. The trauma of road accidents, minor or major, leaves lasting scars. And for what? A momentary lapse in judgment? The convenience of avoiding a taxi fare? The language around road incidents has evolved from ‘accidents’ to ‘collisions’ for a reason. It’s about responsibility. This isn’t, in and of itself, about total sobriety – though one could argue for it – but about using a shred of common sense. The question we must ask ourselves before getting behind the wheel is, ‘Is it worth the risk?’. It never is.
In rural Ireland, the challenges are unique, but they’re not insurmountable. The absence of taxis isn’t an excuse for risking lives. Friends, family, community – they’re our safety net. This isn’t about harming the local pub culture; it’s about safeguarding our community. The advent of zero alcohol products which take the form of their alcohol-enriched counterparts has made it easier for those who want to socialise without the risk on the road and the inevitable hangover that will be induced by overconsumption, to go out and patronise a pub without the associated inebriation. And, for the most part, it masks any stigma associated with being the ‘designated driver’ on the pint of water along with the pioneers – not that there isn’t virtue in selected sobriety. Sure, one might argue that drink-driving laws and their enforcement have perhaps over-corrected. But the intent behind these laws is clear: to save lives. If the worst-case scenario you can imagine is a checkpoint arrest, it’s time to recalibrate your perspective. The real worst-case scenario is far grimmer – it involves the loss of life, your own – or someone else’s.
Conclusion This year, let’s challenge ourselves to make smarter choices. Let’s not rely on luck or test our guardian angels’ speed. The nuances of this debate are many, but the underlying truth is simple: human error, often exacerbated by alcohol or drugs, is a significant factor in road collisions. And while sober drivers aren’t immune to mistakes, the risks multiply under the influence. In conclusion, as we navigate our way into and through 2024, let’s strive for a safer, more responsible approach to road safety. It’s about individual responsibility, yes, but also about a collective commitment to change. Let’s not be another statistic, another heartbreaking story. Instead, let’s be the generation that redefines road safety, not through laws alone but through a fundamental shift in our attitudes and behaviours. Because in the end, the life you save could be your own and the sentence you would carry for being the cause of taking another life and surviving yourself, well… it’s a life sentence, one you will bear long after the courts have had their way with you.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
FARMING & RURAL LIVING
M
ulhern Bro Agri Contractors Ltd.
S
Kilmore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Telephone: Tommie: (087) 9009067 Michael: (087) 1422312
Ivor: (083) 845 2049
Digger now available with Flail Head All digger work carried out
(Proudly serving farmers for over 64 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373
Pictured is Irish Olympian and co-founder of the workplace wellbeing platform SAOL, Derval O’Rourke, who has put together her top five tips for employee wellbeing in 2024.
Olympic hero Derval’s top tips for employee wellbeing in 2024 As people consider life changes at the start of the new year, Irish Olympian Derval O’Rourke has put together her top tips to help boost staff morale in 2024. It comes as research from the ‘Healthy Ireland at Work, A National Framework for Healthy Workplaces in Ireland 2021-2025’ shows that only a third of businesses in Ireland have a formal health and wellbeing strategy. The three-time Olympian and co-founder of the workplace wellbeing platform SAOL is highlighting ways in which employees can improve their own wellbeing and that of their colleagues. She says this will help to support businesses to connect, engage and retain people. Derval’s top five tips are as follows: First is prioritising mindfulness and mental wellbeing. The New Year is a time when employers
need to be extra aware of their employees’ mindset. Now is the time to promote mindfulness, stress reduction and mental health awareness. This can be a difficult area for workers to navigate and SAOL will be hosting a number of initiatives in January including a Q&A with Cognitive Behavioural psychotherapist, Emily Murphy, and a workplace wellbeing live session called Burnout, Sleep & Selfcare. Second is financial wellbeing support. Post-Christmas finances can be a real source of stress for most people but there are lots of experts available to answer questions and offer advice on financial management, budgeting, and planning for the future. Financial expert and qualified financial advisor Tom Grant will be hosting a SAOLTalks session in January, which will feature a live Q&A on finances and financial health.
Third is career development opportunities. Employers need to invest in their employees’ growth by offering training, skills development programmes, or mentorship opportunities. There are lots of programmes available to workers which offer in-person and online training and it’s important to talk to engage in those that best suits a person’s own needs. SAOL has a number of experts available who can answer questions on how to acquire a transferable skill set and more. Fourth is work/life balance. Getting the right work/life balance has been a major factor in worker satisfaction in recent years and that trend is set to continue. It’s important for workers to switch off when they’re not on duty and reading is a fantastic way to do this. Finally, the fifth tip is goal setting. After setting goals – be they financial, fitness or food – it’s im-
portant to follow them through. It can be tough to stick to your goals so maybe pair up with a friend or colleague and you can share motivational tips and encouragement as you continue on your journey. You can follow programmes such as SAOL’s January JumpStart Challenge, which helps people form a new habit in 21 days. Derval said, “The new year is a great opportunity to reset but it can also be a time of anxiety, for all sorts of reasons. Small adjustments to your habits and mindset can make a big difference to your mental, physical and financial wellbeing but support from those around you can help keep the momentum going. At SAOL, we’re really excited about our January JumpStart Challenge and programmes like this can be really useful for everyone”. For further information please visit saol-app.com.
Roscommon MART WATCH We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €162. The tops for stag ewes fetched €179. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. Next sale of lambs
and cast ewes is next Wednesday, January 17th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-live.com. Sample prices for finished lambs: 56kgs
€162, 55.6kgs €161, 59kgs €160, 49kgs €159, 51kgs €149, 52kgs €155, 48.5kgs €155, 47kgs €151, 46kgs €141, 45 kgs €139. Store lambs: 40gs €128, 42kgs €125, 38.5kgs €112, 38kgs €106, 34.5kgs €101. Cast ewes made from €35 to €179 per lot.
January Sales 2024 ----------------------
Friday, 12th January at 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers & Bullocks Also Dry Cows
----------------------
Friday, 19th January at 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Heifers Also Dry Cows and Bullocks
Bookings accepted until Monday, 15th January at 5 p.m. ----------------------
Tuesday, 23th January at 4 p.m.
Opening Sale of Weanlings Including Special Entry of 30 In calf Cows Bookings accepted until Thursday, 18th January at 5 p.m. ----------------------
Friday, 26th January at 11 a.m.
Special Sale of Bullocks Also Dry Cows and Heifers
Bookings accepted until Monday, 22th January at 5 p.m. ----------------------
Lambs & Cast Ewes
Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m.
ENQUIRIES 090 6626352
Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie
Find us on facebook
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Entertainment, Culture & Arts
Pupils Katelyn, Michael and Danny Hamilton, students of Cootehall National School pictured with (from left): Catherine Martin, Joan Tiernan and Paul Dwyer at the launch of the new sensory initiative ‘The Happiness Programme’ which was held by Roscommon Library Services in Boyle Library recently.
To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
James and Katelyn Hamilton, students of Cootehall National School, enjoying the launch in Boyle Library of ‘The Magic Table’ – part of ‘The Happiness Programme’ which was launched in Boyle Library recently.
Pictured at the launch of ‘The Happiness Programme’ in Boyle Library were (l to r): Kieran Shaughnessy, Acting County Librarian; Marina Bruen and Eithne McDermott, Staff Librarians, Boyle; Cllr. John Cummins, Leas Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council (who launched the initiative) and Fiona Ni Chuinn, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council.
Boyle Library brings whole new world of happiness to residents Roscommon County Libraries have recently brought a bit of magic to Boyle by rolling out a new interactive light projector to provide inclusive, sensory stimulation to the neurodiverse community, including those with autism or additional needs, which will further enhance the library’s age-friendly services. Provided in Boyle thanks to Dormant Accounts funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development, the projector is designed by Social-Ability and manufactured in the UK. The Happiness Programme uses interactive games to connect library users with each other. Research shows the concept improves the wellbeing of people living with dementia and
other cognitive challenges. Using interactive light projections, the Happiness Programme, which can be played independently or in a group, stimulates movement by inviting participants to take part in all sorts of different fun activities. Among the activities are ‘popping bubbles’, playing the piano, colouring in pictures, sweeping leaves or interacting playfully with fish. Games are rich in colour, movement and detail, and allow people of all ages to play in a safe and comfortable environment. The Happiness Programme is portable so it can be used wherever those using it feel most comfortable to do so. It can be projected onto floors,
ceiling and walls and allows for a range of games that change seasonally. Its portability also means Roscommon Library will also have the option to bring the projector to various outreach and community events. Speaking following the launch, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. John Keogh commended library staff and the many stakeholders who have collaborated to ensure delivery of the programme. “I am thrilled to announce the distribution of the Happiness Programme across the local library service here in Boyle. It is fantastic to see an investment of this size to reach the most isolated in society and improve wellbeing.
“The Happiness Programme will progress the mission of our library service in sparking laughter and happiness, not just here in Roscommon but nationwide. “I look forward to hearing the wonderful stories and care outcomes that are achieved through the Happiness Programme which can make a real difference in people’s lives and those of their families”, said Cllr. Keogh. Social-Ability works together with innovative care providers and libraries across the UK and Ireland. Readers can find out more about Social-Ability by visiting their website: www.social-ability.co.uk.
Brideswell NS and Dangan NS in national art competition final on Wednesday
Dangan National School was Senior County Winner (Roscommon) with its ‘Anyone can be Anything’ entry under teacher Derek Gannon.
Brideswell National School and Dangan National School are celebrating being named Junior and Senior County Winners respectively of the prestigious national art competition, Someone Like Me, which will see them join 46 other schools to compete for the national title at the national awards ceremony to be held at Dublin City Hall next Wednesday, January 17th. Now in its eighth year, the Someone Like Me art competition, which is organised by the National Disability Authority, attracted more than 2,200 entries from national schools across the length and breadth of the country. The competition was created as part of the National Disability Authority’s work to nurture more positive attitudes towards persons with disabilities and, to date, it has seen more than 17,500 children take part in lesson plans and pupil activities designed to challenge our young people to appreciate and respect similarities and differences in people. Congratulating Brideswell National School and Dangan National School on being named County Winners, Minister of State with responsibility
Brideswell National School was Junior County Winner (Roscommon) with its ‘Disability Detectives’ entry under teacher Orla Fogarty. Brideswell National School was Junior County Winner (Roscommon) with its ‘Disability Detectives’ entry under teacher Orla Fogarty.
for disability, Anne Rabbitte TD said that the number of entries this year is a tribute to the commitment not just of the National Disability Authority, but also to Ireland’s primary school teachers, who continue to play an important part in helping to create an ever-more inclusive Ireland. Brideswell National School and Dangan National School will now go on to compete with 46 other schools from around the country for the over-
all national Someone Like Me award which will be announced at the national awards ceremony to held at Dublin City Hall on Wednesday, January 17th. The competition, which offers a range of prizes up to the value of €1,250, was open to all primary school pupils from junior infants to sixth class and more than 2,200 entries were received from individual pupils, class groups and whole schools right across Ireland.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
GOING OUT
To feature in this section, call 090-6634632 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
St Brigid’s supporters Aisling Gilligan, Cillian Grehan and Conor and Derek Gilligan pictured at last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Cheering St Brigid’s on…
Darina and Marcus O’Dwyer cheering for St Brigid’s at last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
St Brigid’s supporters Aoife, Fionn and Barry Nolan and Emily Martin pictured during last Sunday’s AIB AllIreland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Eugene and Cait Mannion supporting St Brigid’s at last Sunday’s AIB AllIreland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Chris and Gerry Martin supporting St Brigid’s during last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Supporting Castlerea all the way! Members of the Greene and Harte families supporting Castlerea St Kevin’s in last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Castlerea supporters Isaac and Mary Lafferty pictured at last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final between Castlerea St Kevin’s and Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Ciara & Mary O’Connell with Delma O’Rourke, Eugene O’Connell and Breffni O’Rourke supporting Castlerea St Kevin’s in last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Castlerea supporters Nicola Scahill and Clodagh Creaton pictured at last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final between Castlerea St Kevin’s and Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Daniel Connelley, Ethan Doyle and Bobby Lyons cheering on Castlerea St Kevin’s in last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
PropertyPeople
Licence Number 003900
For Sale By Private Treaty Non Residential Farm
Cloonree, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon l c.57 Acres with Farm Building
in Two Sections
l Large 6 Bay Slatted Shed l Good Road Frontage l Old Stone Cottage and
Ancillary Buildings
SERVICES OFFERED l Sales in Residential, Commercial & Land l Full Property Management & Letting Service l Valuations l Specialist Auctioneers in Forestry
Land for Sale and Lease For Lease c. 30 acres to lease at Kilglass, Co. Roscommon (Available until the 31st of December) c.20 Acres to lease at Cloonkeen, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (Available to 31st December) For Sale c. 21.5 Acres at Termon More, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon c.30 Acres at Ballyfarnon, Boyle, Co. Roscommon c. 13.2 Acres at Kilroddan, Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon
WANTED l Residential Properties in all Areas for Clients with funds in place l Rental Properties for Fully Vetted Tenants l Forestry or Land Suitable for Forestry
Paul Lafferty Ltd.
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
PropertyPeople
Five-bedroomed residence with Paul Lafferty Ltd
Convent Court, Roscommon Town
Convent Court house new to market at Remax Team Earley
Roisin Rooney of Paul Lafferty Ltd is delighted to present to the market an exquisite five-bedroomed, detached residence in pristine turnkey condition, located at 5 Tarmon Manor, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. This property is finished to the highest of standard and specification by its current owners. It offers contemporary, modern family living and is located in a highly sought after area within walking distance of Castlerea town centre. Ground floor accommodation briefly consists of a downstairs hallway, open plan kitchen/dining/living area, sitting room, conservatory, office, utility, WC, games/ den, and storage area. On the first floor,
there are four regular bedrooms, a family bathroom, and the master bedroom, which boasts a large ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. Externally, there are landscaped manicured lawns and garden areas with planted shrubbery to the front, side, and rear. There is a large south-facing paved patio area to the rear. Rarely would a property of this nature come to the market and viewing is strongly advised, strictly by appointment with sole selling agents Paul Lafferty Ltd. For further enquiries, please contact Paul Lafferty Ltd on 094 9620540 or at paullaffertyltd@gmail.com.
This week, Keith McLoughlin of Remax Team Earley is proud to present to the market a three-bedroomed bungalow, primely located in Convent Court, Roscommon Town (F42 XE89). This property is situated close to all amenities in a peaceful estate, and is in walk-in condition. It is very rare for a bungalow residence of this calibre situated in Roscommon town to come on the market. The accommodation comprises briefly of a spacious sitting room with a cosy open fire, a family bathroom, a kitchen, and three bedrooms, with one benefiting from an ensuite. The BER rating is C3. Outside, the property features a tarmacadam driveway, a garden to the front, and an enclosed rear garden with a garden shed. Bungalows of this exceptional quality are very rare on the market and the auctioneer highly recommends viewing of this excellent property. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley of Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax. ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.
Cormac 086 3519492
PSRA Licence No. 004420
NEW TO THE MARKET 7 ACRES APPROX OF PRIME AGRICULTURAL LANDS LOCATED AT
BALLINAGARE, CO. ROSCOMMON (Folio RN1502F)
AMV: €50,000
Circa 60-acre Castlerea farm for sale with Paul Lafferty Ltd This week, Paul Lafferty Ltd is delighted to bring to the market a circa 60-acre non-residential farm with a six-bay slatted shed and derelict cottage at Cloonree, Castlerea, Co Roscommon. For sale by private treaty, the land consists of two sections. The first is circa 52 acres with a road front, which has a six-bay slatted shed that was constructed in 2007 to grant specifications. The shed has six pens and has a capacity of housing up to sixty adult cattle with water troughs and diagonal feed barriers. This section also includes a stone walled derelict cottage and several old stone outbuildings. The second parcel of land has circa 5.2 acres of good quality land with good road frontage. For further enquiries, please contact Paul Lafferty Ltd on 094 9620540 or at paullaffertyltd@gmail.com.
Cathal 086 1409158
Keith 086 0848590
NEW TO THE MARKET 2 B/R COTTAGE STYLE RESIDENCE IN DERELICT CONDITION LOCATED AT
NEW TO THE MARKET 5 B/R DORMER STYLE BUNGALOW LOCATED AT
AMV: €50,000
AMV: €340,000
CASTLEPLUNKETT VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 TD61
CRUBY HILL, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON F42 Y959
Stone Court Centre, The Square, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796. Mobile: Cormac 086 3519492 or Cathal 086 1409158 • Email: teamearley@remax.ie • Web: www.teamearley.ie
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds
Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS < ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor). Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CHIROPRACTOR
ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:
• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN
Telephone: 086 8433433
Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor
BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland
COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.
NO FIX NO FEE
PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie
VHI and Laya Covered
Complete Chimney Services
CONSTRUCTION
Stephen Casey
Chimney Cleaning
• Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires
• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowls and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:
087 2798704
Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare
Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.
Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner
Construction l General Building
l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV
Inspections l Chimney Repair
- Insurance Claims
Strokestown, Co. Roscommon
087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com
GARDENING
COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY
Des Kelly Fencing
FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD
Are you affected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com
DRIVING LESSONS
Paul McStay
DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon Telephone:
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
COUNSELLING
COUNSELLING Are you experiencing difficulties in your life? Such as depression, anxiety, life or spiritural crisis. Are you having difficulties in relationships at work? Have you experienced sexual abuse or abuse and need counselling to help you?
Send your Classified advertisement to
Online counselling available.
advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie
085 2514394
or alternatively call 090 66 34633
FENCING/GATES
EDT Lessons Available
086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie
Submit your Classified online
COUNSELLING
Please call Glynis on
email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk
web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com
094 96 20099 Mobile:
086 8936012
This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation
Over 30 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • 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
l
l
087 2346364
Tel: 087 2172281
< ROSCOMMON PATIOS AD FENCING: Patios, fencing we also supply patio slabs. Mobile: 087 4394142
JOE HEALY
FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 1 Foldable Sports Massage bed for sale, used once, headrest etc. €100 o.n.o. Excellent condition. Phone: 087 3179254 after 7pm. < FOR SALE: Opel Insignia 2012, timing belt and water pump done, 205,500km, new tyres, brakes, steering joints, tax til 30 May 2024, NCT to 30 May 2024. 2 bicycles, mans Huntleigh Racing bike 18 gears, Ladies Raleigh green. Phone: 083 8828882
GARDENING
GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available
Phone John on
087 2860428
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in County Roscommon! The local paper!
l
For all your fencing needs. GLAS Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail
GARDENING
CORBETT
TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING
General Maintenance Dangerous Tree Removal l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped l Wood Chipping l Fully Insured Contact Alan on l
l
087 6558597
Tree Services
www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com
• Hedge Cutting • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Fully Insured Phone:
Tommy’s Trees & Hedging
087 2721193 GATELY GARDENING
Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496
• Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.
Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com
FOR SALE We supply all types of trees and hedging, Laurel, Beech, Whitethorn, Oak, Elder Birch, Dog rose, Gelder Rose, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Holly. Suitable for ACRES & GLAS Scheme and REPS Scheme. Can be delivered Card payment accepted. Phone: 087 4177148
GRINDS/TUITION < MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible. Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536 < QUALIFIED PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER available for home tuition. Five years teaching and tuition experience teaching all classes levels at different stages. Also have experience tutoring Leaving Cert students with Irish Oral preparation. Please contact 0872796972 for more information.
26
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
PLANNINGS
PLANNINGS
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Luke Flanagan intends to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Taghnoose TD, Carrowbehy, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 NP93. The development will consist of decommission existing septic tank and percolation area serving existing dwelling house and replace with a new wastewater treatment system and tertiary polishing filter and all ancillary site works. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the application.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Further information. Applicant: Amy Kelly. Location: Bredagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon. Planning Reference Number: PD/23/309 Significant “Further Information/Revised plans” in relation to the application has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours.
Signed: Coyle Environmental Limited Agents for Luke Flanagan. 1st and 2nd Floor Kilmurry House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 DK58
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Bas Scheffer, am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment filter system and polishing filter and all ancillary site development works at Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon, F42VF62.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers
A submission or observation in relation to the “Further Information or revised plan” may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and the site notice by the Planning Authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Surveyors, Project Managers & Building Consultants. Lisduff, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sean Kelly, am applying for Planning Permission to upgrade the existing on-site Septic tank system with a proposed new Wastewater Tertiary treatment system with infiltration/Treatment Area to replace the existing and to construct a new Storage shed with all associated site development works at Carrownabrickna Td, Co Roscommon, F42 WV80.
Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in county roscommon!
The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 6PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time
TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Paul Woods am applying to Roscommon County Council for retention planning permission for the following: 1) Retain treatment system and soil polishing filter and all ancillary site development works at Cloonmaul, Loughglynn, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, F45VX83.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Karen Moran and Jeremy Delanoue, are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission: 1. To upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment system and polishing filter and all ancillary site development works at Toberavaddy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon, F42DC96. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed:
Unit 5, Ballypheason House, Circular Road Roscommon, F42 C982. Ph: 0906634365 Mob: 0851299470 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers
THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, All-Star Shredding Ltd., intend to apply for permission for Retention and Permission for Change of use of an existing industrial unit for the following; (1) Permission for Retention is sought for the additional floor area within the workshop area of the building and the addition of office space to front of building. (2) Permission for change of use is sought for the entire building to provide two separate areas for the following uses (a) use as a storage facility for medical device tools (b) for the collection, dismantling, processing and preparation for onward transportation of disused computer components for purpose of recycling. (3) All associated ancillary and site works associated with the above At Teevnacreeva Td., Tibohine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090)6634421 Fax: (090) 663423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL The Board of Management of Kilteevan National School intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Cloontogher TD, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon, F42 YY76. The development will consist of decommission existing wastewater treatment plant and percolation area serving existing school buildings and replace with new wastewater treatment system and Ter 3 Packaged Tertiary Unit and all ancillary site works. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the application. Signed: Coyle Environmental Limited Agents for Board of Management of Kilteevan National School. 1st and 2nd Floor Kilmurry House, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. F45 DK58
PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, the Board of Management of St. Coman’s Wood Primary School, intend to apply for Permission and Permission for Retention for the following: (i) Permission is sought for the construction of a connecting singlestorey school extension, containing a 2No. Classroom SEN Base, 1 No. Mainstream Classroom, together with all associated ancillary educational spaces, circulation area, additional car parking spaces, pedestrian footpaths and all other associated site works, including the demolition of an existing caretakers shed, 16 sqm. (ii) Permission for Retention is sought for a temporary prefabricated classroom, 78 sqm, to the rear of the existing school as previously granted under PD/19/231, for a period of five years or until the completion of (i) above, whichever is sooner. At St. Coman’s Wood Primary School (Senior), Ballypheasan Td., Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 X275
The
Business Directory
.ie
! E V I L W NO
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090) 6634421 Fax: (090) 6634423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
www.lookitup.ie
27
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds PROPERTIES TO LET/ RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Tel: 086 8212732
TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
USEFUL SERVICES PLANNINGS
Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural
086 3482387
083 0684011
< FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Excellent quality hardwood, Birch, Ash etc. 8x5 car trailer loads, tractor trailer loads and bags also available. Size cut to order. Also turf available. Call after 5pm 085 7848606
WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone:
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 PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS
086 2437376
or email michaelkilroe123@gmail.com for all your tiling needs.
Hydraulic Cylinder Repair and Testing l Hydraulic Hose Repair l Oil/Grease Lubricants l OEM Hydraulic Components and Spares l
PODIATRIST
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, verruca, orthotics, diabetic assessments and treatment.
Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic
For all foot ailments
Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.
Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233
Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.
SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK
Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes
FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY
Can we help you? Call us today to enquire 090 663 0009
• 20 years experience
(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed
Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com 1 Castleview, Roscommon F42 C902
Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business
LOFT LADDERS Aluminium
Supplied & Fitted From
The company that can do all them small jobs
FROM
€190 094 9373445 087 9100477
www.oddjobsolutions.ie
Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Call Owen for ground work
086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting
085 226 4664
Electrician Available
SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED
Safe Electric Registered. Domestic and Industrial, All work considered. No Job too small.
DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED
Phone Paul 086 2553153 or email: p086255315 @gmail.com
Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring:
PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01
COVERING ROSCOMMON AREA TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815
TREE SHEARING
087 9657933
or 090 66 33084
Established since 2005
GRINDS
By Appointment Only –
087 2982214 Tel:
Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP
REVISION COURSES Junior and Leaving Cert HL
REFLEXOLOGY
For further information
• Fertility Reflexology • Antenatal Reflexology • Baby/Child Reflexology • Special Needs Reflexology • Menopause Reflexology • Cancer Care Reflexology
Benefits:
• Relaxation • Stress & Pain relief • Improves circulation, digestion, sleep • Lowers blood pressure
Gift Vouchers Available
Tel: 087 2264951
l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling
l Dangerous Tree Removed
(Commercial & Domestic)
Harpur Bros, Castlecole,
Castlerea, Co. Roscommon
Contact by phone/text:
Lorraine 086 3688302
Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to the reflex points of the feet/hand to trigger the natural healing power of the body
Tar & Chip Driveways
Tyres - Car, Van and 4x4 l Wheel Balancing l 4-Wheel Alignment l Batteries l Adblue l Accessories l
094 9620009
Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon
Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at
Kilroe Tiling
CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays. l HSE Trained and Approved l Home visits available For any of your foot issues call:
Phone: 086 - 8944363 or 086 - 0872166
Marina Furey B. Sc. (MNRRI) (Hons)
Professional Tiler available
USEFUL SERVICES
Ballintober, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45Y320
Reflexology
TILER
USEFUL SERVICES
Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd
Sarah Fleming
facebook.com/moleskinarch
10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone:
Tullys Podiatrist/Chiropodist
info@moleskinarchitecture.com
TOP QUALITY TURF
USEFUL SERVICES
PODIATRIST
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com
<SOCIAL DANCING: Continues every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music. This Friday night 12th January with Ally Haran and Marion Curry, dance 9.00pm til late. Tel. 087 9809432
Locally owned ... in the heart of the community
28
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES
CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION
KEEN RATES
Tried & Trusted Since 1993
Phone JOHN
083 8838022
The
Richie Dooner
PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING
ROOFING
Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon
1st and 2nd fix Panelling l Sliding Wardrobes l All general construction l Media wall units sprayed painted or skimmed l l
Commercial & Residential
Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie
ROOFING
Roof Repairs
PMC Painting Contractors
24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroof repairs l Dry Verge Repointing l Package deal on Roofing restoration, cleaning, moss removal, replace broken tiles l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Chimney Repairs, Lead Flashing repairs l Patio Services, Powerwashing, Drains and Footpaths l Painting & Decorating l Renovations, Porches, Walls & Garden Design l Barn repairs & farm painting
Tel: 087 6117326 ROOFING Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates < 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.
Phone:
089 9899912
10%
Discount with this advert.
• Cleaning & Painting Roofs of Houses, Sheds and Barns • Roofs Repairs • Cleaning & Sealing of Driveways/Tarmac • Fully Insured and work guaranteed for 5 years
CALL MICHAEL ON
089 966 1849
APPLICANT FOR GARDA SIOCHANA INTERESTED IN BEING AN APPLICANT FOR AN GARDA SIOCHANA? THE 2024 GARDA RECRUITMENT GARDA CAMPAIGN IS DUE TO BE ANNOUNCED ON JANUARY 15TH 2024.
Alan O’Toole
WINDOW CLEANING
Window Protection Ireland Commercial/Domestic Registered and Insured All areas covered Also protecting windows during construction see windowprotection.ie GUTTER CLEANING ALSO AVAILABLE Telephone
087 9795226
I am a retired member of An Garda Siochana since November 2023 having spent twenty years in internal Garda Training and Student / Probationer advancement. Training and Education can be provided by us in the following: l Preparation of initial application form. l Stage (1) Application (online) l Stage (2 ) Application (At Public Service Commission) l Interview preparation for final assessment. l Assistance with Physical testing on Stage 4 l Blended learning on training both online and classroom. l Top class venue available for classroom training. l Available on details listed below during competition on a seven day 24 hour basis. l Ongoing advice and mentoring.
Company website
nashvilleroofing.ie
Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at
email: roofingcontractors96@gmail.com
Phone: 083 1479301
! E V I L W NO
Submit your Classified online Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
GROUND WORKS
GF Ground Works l Landscaping l Paving & Kerbing l Foundations l Footpaths l Drainage & Septic tanks l Driveways l Fully insured l References available
Telephone Ger: 086 8745180
Qualified and experienced Roscommon based Training Provider. This a private training provider and is not associated with any State Body
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!
For all your decorating needs
THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!
086 4679798
NASHVILLE ROOFING
.ie
Call or contact (087) 6339725 Gerry or gergac@eircom.net
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR CONTACT JOHN
Business Directory
The local paper!
OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY
We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: EMAIL:
090 66 34633
advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
www.lookitup.ie
29
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
AtYourService BLINDS
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE
DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE
Chris’s Window Service
SHOWROOM:
Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294
BRENDAN DOOLIN
Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Mobile:
We SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories
WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE
Telephone: 090 66 33026
086 8115928
W: roscommonwindowsanddoors.com E: roscommonwindows@hotmail.com
CHIMNEY REPAIRS
CARS
ROOFING
Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder and lock supplied l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.
l
Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4
email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com
FARMING
Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606
- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed
- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt:
Tel: 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie
(090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection We buy any CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS all types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal
Tel: 087 0944027
CARPENTRY & FITTED FURNITURE
INSULATION
Aodhgan Cashin
Ballybride, Roscommon F42 EC59
• Fitted Kitchens • Bedroom Units • Sitting Room Units • Timber Flooring • General Carpentry
Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness Bonded Cavity & Wall Insulation NewBead Buildings Retrofit Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, Call in SIGA or contact us for free Airtightness advice and quotes New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free
andfrom quotes Unit advice 2,Grants Ballybrit Industrial €1,214 to Estate, Galway
€3,500
091 768 768
Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2,info@ecowise.ie Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway H91 P5k5 Block 12, Galway www.ecowise.ie
091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie
www.ecowise.ie
To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in Co. Roscommon!
Tel: 086 6082597 E: aodhgan.cashin@gmail.com
CLEANING
S tephen H oare
David Duffy 087 9662678 Alan Duffy 086 3992382
• Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • WINDOW CLEANING • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’
l Slate roofs l Tiled roofs l Flat roofs, using all type of materials l Roof windows l Lead replacing l Pointing work l Leak detection l All roofing repair work
Mobile: 086 8874576 Email: info@alpharoofing.ie Web: www.alpharoofing.ie SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED
SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE
Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 or Kenneth on 086 8044030 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd.
Tel: 090 6621220 WELDING & FABRICATON
www.westsidegardening.ie GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal. CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available C2 Registered & Insured. Free Quotations
INSURANCE CLAIMS
Martin Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Martin HibbittAPA-PL, APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA LA Martin Hibbitt CIP, CDIP
Martin Mountbellew, Hibbitt APA-PL, CIP, CDIP LA Mountbellew, Co. Co.Galway Galway Mountbellew, Co. Galway
info@mhla.ie 091 380900 | 087 9818153 info@mhla.ie 091 || 087 info@mhla.ie 091 380900 380900Mountbellew, 087 9818153 9818153 Co. Galway www.mhla.ie
www.mhla.ie
www.mhla.ie 091 380900 |Approved 087 9818153 Certified Dip in Loss Product
Cleaning Services • Roscommon Certified Certified Dip DipAdjusting in Loss Loss in
info@mhla.ie
Member of the PSAB-GI
Advisor Product Approved Product Member of the the PSAB-GI PSAB-GI Approved Member of Regulated by the Central Adjusting Member of the Insurance Bank of Ireland Adjusting Loss Assessor Services Advisor Advisor Regulated www.mhla.ie Regulated by by the the Central Central Institute of Ireland Loss Member Bank Loss Assessor Assessor Services Services Member of of the the Insurance Insurance Bank of of Ireland Ireland Institute of of Ireland Ireland Institute
Certified Dip in Loss Approved Product PROPERTY Advisor Adjusting Loss Assessor Services
Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland
Member of the PSAB-GI
Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES
M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892
DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE
DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE
Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows
Submit your Classified online
Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish
REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on
086 6002721
The local paper!
GARDENING
ALPHA ROOFING
to discuss your requirements NO CALL OUT CHARGE
Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com
Locally owned ... in the heart of the community
Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@rosommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633
30
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McNAMARA Finbar (Finney) Bookla, Ballymoe, Co. Galway (1st Anniversary)
FALLON Elizabeth (Betty)
CAHILL Seamus
Culleen, Knockcroghery
St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon
Who died on the 2nd January 2023
Who passed away on the 17th January 2017 (7th Anniversary)
(1st Anniversary)
BRIAN MURRAY MEMORIALS
O’BRIEN Kathleen Milltown, Kiltoom, Athlone. (7th Anniversary)
• Superior Quality Headstones • Restoration work carried out • New Inscriptions added
CONTACT HAZEL
087 6758874
www.brianmuraystone.com Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com In loving memory of Finbar (Finney) who passed away on the 11th January 2023 There is no night without a dawning, no Winter without a Spring, and beyond death’s dark horizon our hearts once more will sing. For those who leave us for a while, have only gone away. Out of a restless, careworn world, into a “Brighter Day”.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his wife Maureen, his children Ann, Cyril, Monique, Finbarr, James (J.J.) and Niall, his sons-in-law, daughters-inlaw and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday, 14th January in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe at 10am.
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On the First Anniversary of Betty’s passing, we her family, would like to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who sympathised and supported us on our great loss. Sincere thanks to our wonderful neighbours, relatives and friends who provided food and refreshments, organised lighting and traffic management and supported us in any way during this difficult time. Thanks to the many people who called to her home and attended the Funeral Mass and Burial and to all who travelled long distances to pay their respects. To those who sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, letters of sympathy, Perpetual Enrolments, messages of condolences and floral tributes, thank you. Thank you to the many neighbours and friends who prepared mam’s final resting place with great care and attention. Thank you to the Culleen Hall Committee for the use of the hall and its facilities, it was much appreciated. A very special word of thanks to Fr. Ray Milton for his kindness, help and support in preparing final details and for prayers at her home and for celebrating the beautiful meaningful Mass. Heartfelt thanks to Aileen O’Connor and Ellen Costello for the beautiful music and singing which added so much to the Funeral Mass. Sincere thanks to Pat Smyth and family for their invaluable advice, guidance, professionalism, and kindness throughout. Thank you to Adrian Greally and staff of the Abbey Hotel for providing a beautiful meal after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.
We lost a mother with a heart of gold, how much we miss her can never be told. She shared our troubles and helped us along, if we follow in her footsteps we will never go wrong. She was a mother so rare, content in her home and always there. On Earth she toiled, in Heaven she rests, God bless you mother, you were one of the best. We miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air. Your vacant place no one can fill, we miss you mother and always will. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her daughters Margaret and Breda, daughterin-law Sheila, sons-in-law Johnny and Gerry, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Betty’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Friday, 12th January 2024.
Patrick (Paddy) Who died on the 11th January 2013 (11th Anniversary)
Deep in our hearts your memory is kept to love, to cherish and never forget. May Seamus Rest In Peace. Sadly missed by his loving wife Máire and the Cahill family. Seamus’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday, 17th January at 11am.
In loving memory of Kathleen who passed away on the 21st January 2017
Loved and sadly missed by his family. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Friday, 12th January 2024.
FINNERAN Paddy
(20th Anniversary)
(12th Anniversary)
Antrane
Onagh Taughmaconnell
Sadly missed by Tom, Helen, children and grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.
In loving memory of Enda and his granddad Paddy
R.I.P. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 21st January at 10am.
O’BRIEN Matthew Farbreagues, Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon Who passed away on the 17th of January 2023 (Aged 16 years old)
Will those who think of them today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Loved and remembered by all the family. Anniversary Mass in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday, 14th January at 11am.
THANKSGIVINGS
On the First Anniversary of Matthew’s passing, Matthew’s parents Richard and Patricia, his siblings Abigail, Isabelle and Rion and extended O’Brien and Macklin families would like to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude for all the prayers, support and presence of family, friends and neighbours throughout Matthew’s illness and at the time of Mathews passing. The outpouring of care and support from all members of the community near and far has been both humbling and heartening. No act of kindness has gone unnoticed. Our sincerest gratitude to the local school communities and St. Dominic’s GAA who provided a Guard of Honor at Matthew’s Funeral Mass and to Enda and the local men who provided a tractor tribute as we journeyed to Matthew’s final resting place. Our sincere appreciation to Fr. Ray and Fr. Ali Joe, for their care and support throughout Matthew’s illness, attending our home, celebrating his Funeral Mass and your ongoing support. A special word of thanks to Fr. Vincent for traveling and joining in the Funeral Mass. As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression or our sincere appreciation and gratitude and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Matthew’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Saturday, 13th of January 2024.
Many memories keep you near as time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, but in our hearts, you will always live on.
BROOKS Enda
THANKSGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. L.F.
UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.M.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.B. 3 DAY NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. G.
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31
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McDERMOTT Mairead Tarmonbarry & Strokestown Co. Roscommon Treasured memories of Mairead who passed away on January 12th 2020 (4th Anniversary)
GATELY Alan Fearbreagues, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon (17th Anniversary) Treasured memories of a very special son, brother, uncle and best friend, who died tragically on January 11th 2007
HEGARTY Jack Glinsk, Castlerea, Co. Galway (10th Anniversary)
In loving memory of Jack, who went to Heaven on the 14th January 2014
We miss you more than anyone knows, as time goes on the emptiness grows. We laugh, we talk, we play our part, but behind our smiles are broken hearts. Precious memories, tears unseen, wishing your absence was only a dream. Simple words, yet very true, we will always love and remember you. And the songbirds are singing, like they know the score, and I love you, I love you, I love you, like never before.
Sorely missed and loved by Paul, Ali, mother Mary, Sharon, Sandra, Tracey, Noel, Ronan, Barry and their families. Relatives and many friends.
Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day. Out of our lives you may be gone, but in our hearts you still live on, with a sweet remembered smile. Always remembered and loved by his heartbroken parents Jimmy and Chrissie, brother David, sister Tara, sister-in-law Sandy, Ken, nephews, relatives and many friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 19th January at 7pm.
MULLOOLY James Curramore, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)
Anniversary Mass will take place in Strokestown Parish Church on Sunday, January 14th at 11.30am. R.I.P
CORBETT James (Jimmy) Mount Prospect Roscommon. (7th Anniversary)
In loving memory of James Mullooly who passed away on the 13th January 2019 If it seems that I am far away, just open your heart and know its true, that I am still right here with you. Remembered, loved and missed everyday by his family.
A dear Husband and Father Jimmy we love and miss you so much God bless. “Our hero.” Veronica, James and Martin.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 14th January at 10am.
We are sending a Dove to Heaven, with a parcel on it’s wings. Be careful when you open it, its full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs. To say how much we miss you and send you all are love. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain. To walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again. Loved and missed every day, from Mammy and Daddy. xx ~~~~~~~~~~ May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, How much I love and miss you and wish that you were here. Sadly missed by your brother Patrick. xx ~~~~~~~~~~ We will forever miss the smile and laughter of our beloved grandson Jack, a shining star, who left this world too soon. Sadly missed by your grand parents Patsy, Brian and family. xx ~~~~~~~~~~ Today it would be wonderful, to see you play and smile. But Heaven lent you to this world for just a little while. Always loved and remembered by your grandmother Kathleen and family. xx ~~~~~~~~~~ Also at this time we remember Jack’s twin brother Thomas, who is also with the Angels. ~~~~~~~~~~ 10th Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Donamon Castle Church on Sunday, 14th January at 10am.
HENNIGAN Anne (Nancy)
HANLEY Sally Ann
Castletanna, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon
(7th Anniversary)
GALVIN PADDY & PAULINE Late of Araghty, Athleague, Co. Roscommon.
(9th Anniversary)
Who passed away on the 13th January 2017 In loving memory of Anne who passed away on 14th January 2015. Also remembering at this time her husband, Cornelius (Sonny), who passed away on 26th August 1976
Gone from our hearth but forever in our hearts. Always in the thoughts of Pat, Andrew and Matthew.
HANLEY Sally Ann I lost a mother with a heart of gold How much I miss her can never be told She shared my troubles and helped me along If I follow in her footsteps I will never go wrong. Always remembered by her son Tommy Joe. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 14th January at 11am in St. Bridget’s Church, Fourmilehouse.
BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE
HAMILL Tom Cloonslanor, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon
Whose birthday occurs on 18th January 2023 A smile for everyone, a heart of gold, the very best this world could hold. Never selfish always kind, these are the lovely memories you left behind. Always remembered by your loving daughter, Kathleen, son-in-law John and grandsons David and John. R.I.P. Grandad
LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
(7th Anniversary)
(1st Anniversary) (30th December, 2022)
(2nd Anniversary) (22nd February, 2022)
Loving memories never die as years roll on and days pass by, in our hearts a memory is kept of the ones we love and will never forget.
Forever loved and fondly remembered by all your family, friends and neighbours. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday 20th January at 7pm. Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance
MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed
Email or call for Sample Pack
SISTER Although I’m sad without you and wish that you were here, within my heart your lovely smile still shines bright and clear. I treasure all those memories, of growing up with you, the secrets we would share, the childish things we’d do. And as the years passed quickly, we grew closer still. I miss you dearest sister and you know I always will. Love always Bernie Reynolds and family.
Though your smile is gone forever and your hands we cannot touch still we have so many memories of the one we loved so much. The memories are our keepsakes with which we’ll never part God has you in His keeping and we have you in our hearts. Always remembered by Seán and Breda and family. xxx Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Saturday, 13th January at 7pm.
Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Third generation Monumental Sculptors specialising in: • New Headstones • New Inscriptions • Restoration and Cleaning of Monuments • Wall Plaques and Name Plates • Grave Maintenance Service Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: info@anthonymurrayandsons.com www.anthonymurrayandsons.com
FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
32
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
Classifieds
To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MORAN Patrick (Paddy)
APPOINTMENTS
CRONIN
< OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR/ RECEPTIONIST: A full-time position is now available for a busy office in Strokestown with an immediate start. You will be responsible for providing excellent customer service, answering calls, emails and dealing with queries in a professional manner. Ad hoc administrative duties, invoicing, accounts. Previous experience desirable. Please send enquiries to: P.O. Box 3097 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.
Start 2024 with a fresh and exciting opportunity!
Mote Park, Co. Roscommon
Riverside Avenue, Roscommon Who passed away on 5th January 2023 (1st Anniversary)
Holmes Centra Ballygar seeks a
Deli Manager
Michael (Sonny) (2nd Anniversary) 15th January 2022.
We the family of the late Patrick (Paddy) Moran would like to sincerely thank all those who sympathised with us on our recent sad loss. Thank you to all our neighbours, relatives and friends for your kindness and generosity and to those who attended Paddy’s Removal and Funeral Mass. We are deeply moved by the volume of online tributes, Mass Cards, sympathy cards, condolences, letters and floral tributes. A sincere thank you to Fr. Raul Cino and Fr. Donnelly in celebrating a beautiful Mass, also to Hazel Murray for the beautiful hymns and music. Thank you also to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for taking care of arrangements with such professionalism, dignity and attention to detail and the gravediggers for preparing Paddy’s resting place so beautifully. There were so many gestures of kindness and goodwill that we as a family deeply appreciate, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deep gratitude. So many things have happened since you were called away, so many things to share with you had you been left to stay. Every day is some small way, memories of you come our way, though absent, you are ever near, still missed, loved and always dear. And now we pause to remember, let us all fondly recall how dearly each of us loved you, and oh, how you loved us all. Paddy is sadly missed by his loving wife Moira, sons Hal, Patrick, Justin and Thomas (Tom) R.I.P., his daughter-in-law Caroline, grandchildren Sophie, Sasha, Shannon and Ardan and extended family. First Anniversary Mass for Paddy will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, January 14th at 11.30am.
FARRELL Matthew (Mattie) & Mary Clooneyourish, Athleague (18th and 13th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Mattie, who died on 30th December 2005 and Mary, who died on 13th January 2011
Many a lovely moment, many a silent tear, but always treasured memories of parents we loved so dear. We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Always remembered by Seamus, Kieran, Marie and Sean, relatives and friends. Masses offered.
Margaret (24th Anniversary) 6th April 2000
Deep are the memories, precious they stay, no passing of time, can take them away. Will those who think of them today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Sadly missed by your son Padraic, daughter Marie, son-in-law Padraic and family, daughter Vera, son-in-law Gerry and family, daughter Josephine, son-in-law Tommy and family. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Friday, 26th January at 7pm.
MONTH’S MIND MASS MORRIS Micheal Mount Plunkett, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 12th of December 2023
Micheal’s son John along with Sandra, Sonya, Luke and his sisters Anne and Bridie, brothers-in-law, sister-inlaw, nieces, nephews and extended family, Kathleen and Charlie in U.S.A. wish to thank most sincerly all those who expressed their condolences on the sad passing of Micheal. We would like to thank the Ambulance crew for their kind and professional help also An Garda Siochana and Dr. Keenan. A special thank you to Bernadette for her help. A thank you to close friends and relatives for all their help and support, for all the food that our kind neighbours delivered personally. To all who called to our home and Funeral Home, who attended the Funeral Service, sent Mass Cards and offered kindness and support to us on our sad loss of Micheal. To Fr. Ray for his support and help and wonderful Funeral Service. To Pat Smyth and his team at Smyth’s Funeral Directors a sincere thank you, for all their help, kindness and professional assistance. A word of thanks to our grave diggers for all the work and care they took in preparing Michael’s grave. Grateful appreciation to Aileen and choir. Thanks to Micheal Tyrells for his catering. To Gleeson’s Restaurant for the refreshments and deliveries. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your kind intentions.
to run and develop it’s busy Deli and Bakery Department The Ideal candidate will have experience of either the Deli or the catering business, will be capable of managing colleagues, stock and waste and above all the general standards within these critical areas of the shop. Other opportunities also exist within our Deli and Bakery Sections so if you have an interest in a fresh start for 2024 contact Ollie on 0906624078 or 0876414752 Or email oholmes1974@gmail.com
BURKE’S GARAGE Clashaganny, Tulsk Co. Roscommon
Required: Motor Mechanic At Burke’s Garage Clashaganny
SITUATIONS WANTED
Also Required:
Mechanic with minimum 2 year’s experience Contact Michael on 086 2535559
< CLEANING: House cleaner available, Roscommon/Castlerea and surrounding area. Please send enquiries to: P.O. Box 3096 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.
Applications are invited from suitability qualified candidates for inclusion on a panel for the positions of:
Arts & Culture Venue Manager (Grade VI) 1.
Roscommon Arts Centre
2.
Boyle Arts Venues including:
• King House (Boyle) • An Ríoga (Boyle) • Douglas Hyde Centre (Frenchpark)
The positions are based on 35 hours per week and will include nights and weekends. Candidates can apply for positions in one or both venues provided they meet the relevant essential qualifications and experience.
Micheal’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 13th January at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.
Application form and candidate information booklet setting out full details in relation to these positions are available by logging onto the Job Vacancies section on Roscommon County Council’s website at www.roscommoncoco.ie
FAMILY NOTICES
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 4.00 p.m. on 18th January 2024
• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance
Canvassing will disqualify.
Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie
Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fóstóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Roscomaín
Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
33
London calling on Saturday as Rossies eye place in FBD final FBD League quarter-final Roscommon 1-21 Sligo 0-15 < SEAMUS DUKE
Roscommon senior footballers started their 2024 competitive campaign with a comfortable win against a very disappointing Sligo side in the Connacht GAA Air Dome last Friday night. On the positive side for Roscommon manager Davy Burke and his selectors is the fact that they gave five players – Luke Glennon, Caelim Keogh, Declan Kenny, Senan Lambe and Jack Duggan – their debuts. All five did well, with Duggan, a recent recruit from Longford, scoring two excellent points. However, Roscommon manager Burke would have learned little about his side’s prospects for this season given the poor quality of the opposition and given the nature of these games, played as they are indoors on an astro turf pitch. Roscommon did all the damage in the first half when they were totally dominant. Niall Daly and Enda Smith were in control at midfield while Cian Connolly was outstanding as a link man between defence and attack. Up front, Daire Cregg looked very sharp and Diarmuid Murtagh, Donie Smith and the returning Cathal Heneghan were also very prominent. Roscommon cruised into a 0-5 to 0-1 lead after 10 minutes with Daire Cregg (2), Diarmuid Murtagh (2), and Jack Duggan on target. With the score at 0-8 to 0-3 in the 19th minute, Cathal Heneghan was clean through on goal but was hauled down by Sligo full-back Evan Lyons who got a black card for his efforts. The flood-
New season, new dreams: Roscommon players pictured at The Dome last Friday night (photo courtesy of Roscommon GAA).
gates opened between that point and half-time as Roscommon outscored their opponents by 1-6 to 0-1. The game’s only goal came in the 26th minute, a brilliant score manufactured and finished in Boyle. Enda Smith made a strong run down the right and crossed in low and hard. Daire Cregg came steaming in and flicked the ball to the net soccer-style. Mo Salah or Erling Haaland would have been proud of the finish, which helped Roscommon into a 1-13 to 0-4 lead at the break. Both sides ran their benches in
the second half and it has to be said that Sligo were much better in that period. However, the game had already gone from them, and Roscommon could always keep the scoreboard ticking over with the arrival of players like Ronan Daly, Conor Cox, Eoin McCormack and Davy Murray. Roscommon will now look forward to a semi-final against London (surprise winners over Mayo) this Saturday night (7 pm). That game will surely be a more searching test for Davy Burke’s team as they continue preparations for the big league
opener against Tyrone at the end of the month. Best for Roscommon on the night were Caelim Keogh, Declan Kenny, Cian Connolly, Daire Cregg, Enda Smith and Cathal Heneghan, while the presence of so many new players on the panel will give the management and supporters plenty to be enthusiastic about as the year takes shape. Teams & scorers Roscommon: Colm Lavin; Senan Lambe, Evan Flynn, Luke Glennon; Caelim Keogh, Colin Walsh, Declan Kenny; Niall Daly, Enda
Smith (0-1); Daire Cregg (1-3, 3 frees), Donie Smith (0-5, 2 frees), Cian Connolly (0-1); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-5, 4 frees), Cathal Heneghan (0-2), Jack Duggan (0-2). Subs: Niall Higgins for Keogh (33), Ronan Daly for Cregg (33), Conor Hussey for Walsh (h/t), Conor Cox (0-2, frees), for Murtagh (41), Eoin McCormack for N Daly (48), David Murray for Flynn (52), Paddy Gavin for Glennon (56), Dylan Ruane for D Smith (63). Sligo: Aidan Devaney; Luke Casserly, Evan Lyons, Paul McNamara; Dylan Walsh, Canice Mulligan, Mark Walsh; Patrick
O’Connor, Joe Keaney; Cian Lally, Alan Reilly (0-1, free), Keelan Cawley; Oisin Flynn, Daire Boyle (0-1, free), Lee Deignan (0-4, 1 free, ’45). Subs: Brian Cox for Casserly (33), Luke Towey for Walsh (33), Eoghan Smith for Flynn (33), Jack Lavin (0-1) for Mulligan (33), Peter Laffey (0-1) for O’Connor (33), David Quinn (0-2) for Cawley (33), Conan Marren (0-1) for Keaney (h/t), Oisin McCann for McNamara (h/t), Mikey Gordon for Lally (h/t), Alan McLoughlin (0-4, 3 frees) for Reilly (h/t), Keelan Harte for Devaney (46). Referee: Declan Corcoran (Mayo).
Burke delighted with debutants < SEAMUS DUKE
Roscommon manager Davy Burke expressed his dissatisfaction with a new rule this year which restricts the amount of substitutions that can be made in the FBD League. Traditionally, in ‘pre-season competitions’ of this nature, multiple substitutions are the norm, as
managers try out new players and work on selections and systems ahead of the National League. However, in 2024, teams are restricted to six substitutions per half. Burke appeared to favour a more casual subbing approach, noting that “when there’s a raft of subs between the two teams, it’s very disruptive”. Stating that the new rule needs to be looked at, he said that last Friday
(against Sligo), Roscommon “had to make a few subs in the first half to make sure we got everyone on the field”. As to the victory on the evening, Burke was very happy with his charges and agreed that the first-half display was the deciding factor. “I thought that we started very well and we put the game to bed very early. These games tend to fall apart then
and they turn into glorified challenge games. But I felt that we were good for the guts of 35 minutes”. Burke praised the contribution on the night of Cian Connolly of Roscommon Gaels. “Cian is a very good player. I’m delighted for him because he had a very quiet year by his high standards last year. He’s putting it together now. He’s putting a massive shift in and he’s going to be a
big player for us”. The Roscommon manager also praised the efforts of his young defence on the night. “For five of our six backs, it was their first time out in a Roscommon jersey. People shouldn’t forget that. That’s massive for us. We are looking ahead now to next weekend (FBD semi-final) and another match in preparation for the season”.
34
Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
SportsPeople
Darts news
The Roscommon Masters will be held this Saturday, January 13th, for men, women and youths (while continuing preparations for intercounty events). The venue is The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon, with names to be submitted by 3 pm on Saturday for games starting at 3.30 pm. This competition is confined to Roscommon players and Roscommon League players. Our county teams continued their preparations for the upcoming West Coast Challenge with a challenge game against Galway in Clonberne recently. Our Men’s A and B teams competed, while for the first time in many years, our Ladies team also took to the oche. Closely contested games were played across the day, with valuable experience gained by all players. Practice intensifies as attention turns to the West Coast Challenge being held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon from 19th-21st January. For more information on the West Coast Challenge or Roscommon Darts, please check the Roscommon County Darts Facebook page.
tts u p t r o h S (News from local golf clubs)
ATHLONE Congratulations to Maeve Holmes (16) who won the MMA Architects & Acumen sponsored Women’s New Year 12-hole Open which took place on the 29th, 30th, 31st of December and the 1st of January. Despite the rain and frost closing the golf course for play, it didn’t dampen the spirits of the ladies who came out in force to celebrate Nollaig na mBan. Lady Captain Yvonne welcomed all the ladies, with all guests then enjoying a delicious meal at the clubhouse.
CARRICK-ON-SHANNON Last Saturday night the club’s New Year’s party was held in the clubhouse. The club would like to thank all who supported this wonderfully organised event and thanks also to the catering staff that provided an excellent meal. The lotto jackpot is €1,950. This week’s winner of €30 was Niall Roche. If you would like to join the lotto please contact Sheila Carney or Ann Cox. The results of the Christmas 50/50 Draw are as follows – winners Frank Duffy, Summerhill and Liam Costello, Ballinamore. The club would like to thank Hugh Gralton who organised the draw and to all who supported it.
Soccer fixtures Friday, January 12th RDFL First Division Ballymoe v St John’s Athletic B. 8pm Saturday, January 13th RDFL Reserve League CP Ajax v Dunmore Town. 12 pm Moore Utd v Roscommon Utd. 12 pm Ballinagare Manor Utd v Boyle Celtic. 12 pm Sunday, January 14th CFA Women’s Shield Shiven Rovers v Castlerea Celtic. 2 pm RDFL First Division Moylough ‘79 v Glen Celtic. 11 am Dunmore Town v Skyvalley Rovers. 11 am RDFL Second Division Rahara Rovers v Cam Dysart. 11 am Cloonfad Utd v St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh. 11 am Kilkerrin Utd v Roscommon Utd. 11 am RDFL Women’s League Ballaghaderreen v Cam Celtic. 2 pm St Cuan’s Utd/Ahascragh v Kilkerrin Utd. 2 pm Boyle Celtic v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm
Creggs RFC Report
THE GAIN LINE
Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from
The Creggs U-13s Boys team pictured ahead of their game against Galway Bay last Saturday in Creggs. Pic: Steve Fahey
Creggs firsts face Galway Corinthians in Junior Cup Creggs’ first team will take on Galway Corinthians this Saturday in the Junior Cup at 6.30 pm at Corinthians. Creggs seconds will play a league game on Sunday at 2.30 pm v Carrick-on-Shannon in Creggs. Girls U-14s play at home against Buccaneers in the league on Friday evening at 7 pm. Girls U-16s play away to Ballinasloe on Saturday in a league semi-final with a 12 pm kick-off. Boys U-13s play at home at 1 pm on Sunday v Galwegians. Boys U-14s play away to Corinthians in a league semi-final next Saturday at 2.30 pm. Boys U-16s play at home to Sligo in a league semifinal at 1 pm on Saturday. Boys U17s play away to Buccaneers in a league semi-final on Sunday at 12 pm. U-13 Boys: Last Saturday was a cold day but a great one for rugby as Creggs U-13s boys welcomed
Galway Bay to Creggs. Both teams hit the new year running with an exciting end to end game. Creggs had the opening score but Galway Bay bounced back with a burst of speed from their centre to go in unopposed under the posts. The visitors struck again shortly afterwards with another well finished score but Creggs came back again to level it. Creggs pushed on from there with some great attacking rugby and scored two more tries without reply. Galway Bay again applied pressure for the next period but Creggs manged to get the next score. Galway Bay eventually got the try they had been working for when their superb centre dodged and evaded the Creggs tackles to score under the posts. They went over again in the closing minutes
to leave the final score 33-24 in favour of Creggs. This was a great outing after the Christmas break for this team who now move on to play Galwegians at home next Sunday at 1 pm. Girls U-18s: The Creggs U-18 girls returned to action last Saturday after the Christmas break with Ennis RFC visiting Creggs. A great game of rugby was witnessed with both sides intent on all-out attack from the kick-off. Ennis were unbeaten this season and started on a very positive note, leading 19-5 before Creggs came back into the game. It finished in a Creggs’ victory on a scoreline of 36-24. This team go into a league semi-final versus Tuam/Oughterard later this week. Mini Rugby: Creggs minis returned to training last Saturday morning. Santa had obviously
done his job as lots of new rugby gear was on display! Happily, the numbers turning up hasn’t lowered since the Christmas break. Next weekend Carrick-on-Shannon RFC come to Creggs for a blitz. Lotto: The jackpot has still not been won and now stands at €11,600. The lucky dip winner was George Chamberlain. Please join in support of the club. Operation Transformation: As part of our ‘Stay Healthy’ awareness campaign, Creggs RFC are having a weekly walk at 7 pm every Wednesday on our floodlit walkway. The walks will start at 7 pm (until 8 pm) but whether you walk one lap or more is your own choice. Just a reminder that the pathway is suitable for buggies, prams and wheelchairs. No scooters, bicycles or dogs allowed.
BUCCANEERS RFC
Buccs play Blackrock on Saturday The Energia All-Ireland League resumes on Saturday afternoon when Buccaneers have a highly attractive Division 1B fixture against Blackrock College at Dubarry Park at 2.30 pm. Buccs, giving their best display of this season’s AIL, surprised third-placed Blackrock at Stradbrook just before Christmas and the Dublin side will be smarting from that defeat. They will surely be highly determined and more organised for their trip to the midlands where the Pirates will need to replicate the commitment, discipline and enterprise shown in that morale-boosting victory.
Buccaneers defeat Corinthians: Buccs advanced to their third successive BOI Connacht Senior Cup final by virtue of a hard-earned 27-15 victory over Galway Corinthians at a bright, crisp Dubarry Park last Saturday. Buccaneers Seconds: Buccaneers Seconds’ Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup fixture away to Monivea last Sunday fell victim to the harsh weather. Buccaneers U-16s: Buccs U-16s travelled to Mullingar last Sunday morning to play the local team. Buccs started strongly but were guilty of ill-discipline and poor ball retention throughout the game and
Pictured are the first three runners home after the Buccaneers New Year’s Day Fun Run (l-r) Ross Mulvihill (3rd), Sean Purcell (1st) and Eddie Lynch (2nd).
went 25-22 behind before eventually conceding two more tries. Buccaneers U-15s: Buc-
caneers U-15s travelled to Corinthians last Saturday. Buccs started well against last year’s league and cup
winners but alas it was not to be for Buccs despite showing great heart and determination. New Year’s Day Fun Run: Buccaneers second New Year’s Day Fun Run saw hundreds of runners and walkers of all ages and abilities brave wet weather conditions at its new venue on the trail at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre. The club thanks everyone who participated, supported or helped organise the event. Funds generated saw a big increase from last year and the proceeds will again be shared equally between Buccaneers RFC and St. Hilda’s Services.
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Fastorslow could meet Galopin Des Champs in Gold Cup
Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from
Horses for Courses Martin Brassil’s Fastorslow could meet Galopin Des Champs in the Irish Gold Cup over 3m at the Dublin Racing Festival, but Brassil is also considering the shorter, two-mile-one-furlong, Ladbrokes Dublin Chase at the same fixture to avoid a hard race should there be testing conditions with the Gold Cup on in March.
This weekend’s racing After a very quiet week on the racing front, we have a busy weekend ahead, weather-permitting. Today (Thursday) racing is at Clonmel in Co Tipperary, off at 12.25 pm. Tomorrow, Friday, there is the rescheduled NH racing at Naas, lost last Sunday due to fog. They’re away at 12.42 pm, with free admission. There is flat racing in the evening on the all-weather at Dundalk,
starting at 3.37 pm. On Saturday the action is at Fairyhouse, featuring the Grade 3 Dan and Joan Moore Chase, first race at 12.12 pm. Sunday sees the first of a twoday meeting at Punchestown in Co Kildare featuring Grade 2 Moscow Flyer Hurdle and the Grade 3 SkyBet Novice Chase – off at 12.35 pm, and again on Monday, with racing at 12.55 pm. The weather continues to affect racing on both sides of the Irish Sea with the meeting at Sandown last Saturday lost to a waterlogged track. Having survived the wet conditions on Sunday, six of the seven races at Naas fell to fog. British meetings at Ayr on Monday, Exeter on Tuesday and Fontwell today (Thursday) have also been lost. Today’s (Thursday) meeting at Clonmel is subject to an early morning inspection as is tomorrow’s meeting at Wincanton.
by Tom Red
Naas Tomorrow at the Naas refixed card, Gordon Elliott’s Firefox and WP Mullins’ Ile Atlantique are joint favourites at 7/4 and face five opponents in the Lawlor’s Of Naas Hurdle. Mullins also runs Chapeau De Soleil, Lecky Watson and Readin’ Tommy Wrong, Elliott runs Croke Park and Henry de Bromhead completes the field with An Tobar, who is 13/2 with 8/1 bar. Firefox has won another bumper and maiden since beating Ile Atlantique in a bumper at Fairyhouse. Despite Ile Atlantique winning over flights at Gowran Elliott’s horse is taken to confirm placings.
Racing on TV On Saturday ITV Racing is covering four races from Warwick including the Grade 2 Hampton Novice Chase.
Trainer Martin Brassil, jockey JJ Slevin, and owner Sean Mulryan with Fastorslow.
They’ll cover three from Kempton including the Grade 2 Silviniaco Conti Novice Chase with two Irish entries, Joseph O’Brien’s Banbridge and WP Mullins’ Janidil, and the Grade 2 Towton Novice Chase from Wetherby, which has three Irish entries.
Racing News Gordon Elliott’s Conflated will bid to win the Irish Gold Cup at the Dublin Racing Festival. He won it in 2022, before joining Team Elliott for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham. William Hill are the first
champions, and have senior club football to look forward to. Most of all, they have brought great pride to their club, to the town, and indeed to Castlerea people all over the world. Congratulations to manager Dara Bruen, his management colleagues, the superb players, and all at the club.
SPORTS DESK Paul Healy
Discovering Beckenbauer Looking back, I don’t think the locals in the Crew’s Inn Bar in Rooskey (which my family ran at the time) were massively interested in the 1974 World Cup final. But I could be mistaken; I was very young. Anyways, if the locals were casual enough about West Germany v Netherlands on that July Sunday almost 50 years ago, being a cosmopolitan village, we had our own branch of German soccer supporters present in the bar to create their own atmosphere. In those days, pubs closed on Sunday afternoons for a ‘Holy Hour’ – it was actually two hours – between 2 pm and 4 pm. The four big German men who arrived in off a cruiser on the Shannon – desperate to see their country compete in the World Cup final – were oblivious to this potential threat to their plans. My father happily granted our guests a ‘lock-in’, and so, suitably relieved, they settled in for pints and West Germany’s date with destiny. I can’t remember if we had any Dutch visitors that day (the Dutch were regular holidaymakers on the River Shannon in that era). It was my first sight of Franz Beckenbauer, the super-cool, versatile star of that German team. He was graceful, poised, an artist who played the game
at his own pace. Beckenbauer was a pioneer, credited with creating the role of sweeper/ libero. On the opposite side that afternoon was the genius that was Johan Cruyff, who won a penalty in the first minute to give the Dutch the perfect start. West Germany came back to win 2-1, Beckenbauer captaining them to their second ever World Cup success. ‘Der Kaiser’, who died earlier this week at the age of 78, went on to become one of football’s all-time greats. He won the World Cup both as player and manager, was European Footballer of the Year twice, won the European Championship (as a player), and captained Bayern Munich to three European Cups. Apart from the trophies and medals, it was the way he played that will live in the memory. Back in Rooskey in 1974, in a positive development for the fish swimming under the nearby bridge, our ecstatic German friends stayed on to celebrate after the final whistle. They enjoyed their afternoon watching West Germany win the 1974 World Cup in the Crew’s Inn in Rooskey, with the curtains pulled and the pints flowing as ‘early closing’ was red-carded. Meanwhile, the local after-Mass customers had sportingly remained on the premises during the unexpected ‘lock-in’ to offer their
bookmakers giving ‘no run no bet’ terms for all 28 Cheltenham races from the 1st of January. They are also offering five places in all handicaps. These are major boosts for the ante-post punter. How about a few more bookmakers giving punters these breaks?
The boy can play…
St Brigid’s’ goalkeeper Cormac Sheehy and joint captain Paul McGrath pictured with some young fans after their victory over Castlehaven in last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
support for our friends of Franz.
All-Ireland final countdown Congratulations to St Brigid’s on their tremendous achievement in reaching another AllIreland Senior Club Football final (the Kiltoom club won the title in 2013). St Brigid’s had a rocky spell for over 20 minutes of Sunday’s semi-final, but a superb start and a strong finish ensured they deservedly defeated Castlehaven (Cork) and will now face Glen of Derry in the final on Sunday week. The whole county will be rooting for Jerome Stack and his team. We’ll have an extensive preview of the final in next week’s issue. Watch out too for our online posts in support of St Brigid’s.
Following in the footsteps of great Rossie forwards What a pleasure it is to watch
Ben O’Carroll do his thing. Six minutes into Sunday’s AllIreland Club SFC semi-final, and the ball landed in front of O’Carroll, his back to goal. He wants to make things happen, to take responsibility. He rides an opponent’s tackle, almost using the physical contact to propel him nearer the target, to give him momentum. Completing another beautiful balletic intervention, O’Carroll points. In the 12th minute, a flowing St Brigid’s move gathers impetus when the ball is transferred to a goalbound O’Carroll. Castlehaven defenders surround Ben, forcing him to swivel; O’Carroll juggles the ball, his brain assessing how to mine gold from this situation… at just the right moment, he releases to teammate Brian Derwin – freed by the frantic attention devoted to O’Carroll – and he nets the game’s only goal. On 26 minutes, O’Carroll receives a lovely weighted pass, moves with familiar intent, plays a one-two then takes the return and lofts a drooping shot
over the bar. In these moments, I am reminded of so many great Roscommon forwards over the years, in whose footsteps this dancing dynamo follows. We keep producing them – they link the generations with their enduring class – and it’s a joy to observe.
Castlerea so close… The consensus is that Castlerea were very unlucky to lose last Saturday’s All-Ireland IFC semi-final, in which they were pipped by a single point by Cill na Martra of Cork. There’s a lingering sense of heartbreak – mixed with pride – in Castlerea this week. Losing a semi-final by a point is always a sickener. On this occasion, there’s a real sense that Castlerea were the better team on the day, and would have been very worthy finalists. It wasn’t to be, but Castlerea leave the stage with their heads held high, having graced this All-Ireland series. They are county and provincial
Luke Littler’s ability is remarkable; what is at least as remarkable is the fact that he could play such sensational darts under pressure, with over 3,000 fans in the Alexandra Palace venue most nights during the recent World Darts Championship, and millions more watching on TV. It’s one thing to be so brilliant – so young – as a player, but to be able to produce the standard of play he did against seasoned professionals, with the world watching… that quality points to a champion in the making. I played in quite a few pool finals over the years – sometimes in front of a (mere) few hundred people – and in that environment, you inevitably felt a level of pressure that made some shots harder. Imagine therefore what it’s like as a 16-year-old, trying to hold your nerve in front of an audience of millions of people! Littler-mania aside, it was his opponent in the final, Luke Humphries, who actually won the title. It was a brilliant final, Humphries collecting the Sid Waddell trophy with a 7-4 win. Exciting times ahead on this scene, including in Dublin, which will host a starstudded Premier League Darts night in March.
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SportsPeople Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from
The Castlerea St Kevin’s squad pictured ahead of last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra in Portlaoise. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Out, not down – battling Castlerea just miss out on place in final AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final Cill na Martra (Cork) 2-10 Castlerea St Kevin’s 0-15 < SEAMUS DUKE
A magnificent, battling display from Castlerea St Kevin’s fell agonisingly short as they went down by a single point to Cork champions Cill na Martra in a thrilling All-Ireland intermediate semi-final at Laois Hire O’Moore Park on Saturday last. Two goals within 30 seconds in the 10th minute of the second half turned this tie on its head. The Munster champions looked set for a comfortable win after those scores, but Dara Bruen’s men refused to lie down. They laid siege to the Cill na Martra goal in the final 10 minutes and were very unlucky not to draw level or indeed claim a winning
goal which they would have deserved on the balance of play. The conditions were perfect for football on what was a cold but fine day, and a big crowd created a great atmosphere. The Cork side probably had more of the possession in the first half, especially early on, but Castlerea were always in contention, and they had some magnificent performers throughout an engrossing battle. Shane Keenan was a colossus all through for Castlerea. He won an ocean of ball and carried it cleverly, and was the best player on view. Adam McDermott was always a threat up front while the wily Darren McDermott turned back the clock with a superb performance. Further back, Thomas Callaghan was magnificent in defence while Jack Keane and Padraig Joyce came to the fore in that second half. It was score for score in the opening half. Castlerea looked to have been dealt a severe blow when team captain Michael Conroy was black-carded for a
pull in the 18th minute. Shortly after that incident, the Cork side went 0-5 to 0-3 ahead, but Conroy’s teammates buckled down and points from the two McDermotts (Adam and Darren) brought the Roscommon club level. Then, after a point from the Cork side, Keenan scored a brilliant point in injury-time to send the sides in level at half-time, 0-6 apiece. Castlerea were the better team on the resumption and it was the Cork side who suffered the loss of a player in the 36th minute when Anton Ó Cuana was given a black card for a pull on David Quinn. Castlerea looked like they were going to take advantage of the extra man when the two McDermotts pointed again to leave them ahead by 0-9 to 0-8 after 38 minutes. Then came those two crucial scores within 30 seconds. Cill na Martra put together a fine team move that saw full-forward Micheal Ó Deasuna fist a goal home in the 40th minute. Then David Farrell’s miscued
Castlerea’s Jack Keane tries to get around Christóir Ó Meachair of Cill na Martra during last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
kickout only went as far as Maidhci Ó Duinnin who played in Daniel Ó Duinnin and he made no mistake from closerange. Now, from a point behind, John Evans’ side suddenly led by five points. The Munster champions were to score only two more points in the game as Castlerea set about retrieving the situation. Points from Darren McDermott, Padraig Joyce and Shane Keenan reduced the margin to just two by the 48th minute, and from there to the finish it was a frantic affair as Castlerea pressed forward and the Cork men grimly tried to hang on. With the margin at two points, Castlerea had plenty of chances late on. Shane Keenan’s effort for a goal was saved in the 56th minute. The sides exchanged points to leave two in it again by the 58th minute. Then the Cill na Martra half-back Danny Ó Conaill was shown a red card (after a second yellow) in the 59th minute. In injury-time there was a major scramble in the Cill na Martra penalty area.
Eoghan O’Connell’s shot on goal was blocked. Then Jack Keane’s shot was forced out of play after a long-range effort had hit the post and referee Brendan Cawley awarded the Corkmen a free out for a ‘square ball’. A late pointed free from Adam McDermott narrowed the gap to just one in the 65th minute but the final whistle rescued the Cork team and Castlerea had been denied in the most cruel of circumstances. This was a game that Castlerea did not deserve to lose but when the dust settles they will realise that they have had a magnificent year. Dara Bruen and his management team have done a fantastic job with this group of players. In the space of a year they have been transformed from being also-rans in Roscommon to getting within a kick of a ball of an All-Ireland intermediate club final. They will be looking forward to their senior championship campaign later this year on the back of those super performances at Roscommon, provincial and now All-Ireland level.
Michael Conroy, captain of Castlerea St Kevin’s is challenged by Cill na Martra’s Antóin Ó Cuana during last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
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Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from
Castlerea’s David Quinn in action during last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final against Cill na Martra. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Shane Keenan of Castlerea St Kevin’s looking for options as Cill na Martra’s captain Gearóid Ó Goillidhe closes in during last Saturday’s AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Stat Attack
Teams & scorers Cill na Martra: Padraig Ó Criodan; Colm Mac Lochlainn (0-1), Tadhg Ó Corcora (0-1), Finen Ó Faolain; Danny Ó Conaill, Sean Ó Forredh, Ciane Ó Forredh; Antoin Ó Cuana, Gearoid Ó Goillidhe; Daniel Ó Duinnin (1-1), Ciaran Ó Duinnin, Damien Ó Hurdail (0-2); Maidhci Ó Duinnin (0-1), Micheal Ó Deasuna (1-3, 3 frees), Finbarra Ó Healaithe. Subs: Shane Ó Duinnin (0-1) for M Ó Duinnin (52), Daire Ó Lochlainn for C Ó Duinnin (56), Cristoir Ó Meachair for Ó Hurdail (62), Alan Ó Mochain for Ó Deasiuna (62).
Wides: Cill na Martra 6 (4, first half ); Castlerea St Kevin’s 3 (all second half ) Red cards: Cill na Martra 1 (Danny Ó Conaill, 58); Castlerea St Kevin’s 0 Black cards: Cill na Martra 1 (Antoin Ó Cuana, 35); Castlerea St Kevin’s 1 (Michael Conroy, 18)
Castlerea St Kevin’s: David Farrell; Eddie Creaton, Jack Keane, Thomas Callaghan; Padraig Joyce (0-1), Sean Joyce, David Quinn; Jonathan Hester, Michael Conroy; Shane Keenan (0-2), Eoghan O’Connell, Donal Brennan; Darren McDermott (0-6, 4 frees), Adam McDermott (0-6, 5 frees), Peter Farrell. Subs: Niall Connaughton for P Farrell (45), Michael Kelly for Conroy (45), Nathan Bligh for P Joyce (49), Ronan Curran for Brennan (49), Seamus Stenson for Hester (62).
Yellow cards: Cill na Martra 3 (Antoin Ó Cuana, Danny Ó Conaill x 2); Castlerea St Kevin’s 1 (Jack Keane) Attendance: Approx. 2,500 Man of the Match: Shane Keenan (Castlerea St Kevin’s)
Jonathan Hester of Castlerea St Kevin’s collides with Cill na Martra captain Gearóid Ó Goillidhe during last Saturday’s AIB AllIreland Club IFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Referee: Brendan Cawley (Kildare).
A journey that was ‘good for the soul’ < SEAMUS DUKE
Castlerea manager Dara Bruen was understandably heartbroken as he accepted the good wishes of the hundreds of supporters out on the pitch after the game. Bruen was enthusiastic in his praise of the players who had come so agonisingly close to reaching an AllIreland final. “The players have been unbelievable again. I don’t know what the score was when the second goal went in, but did anyone doubt that they’d keep going? I certainly didn’t. “We created the chances at the end and we had the ambition to take the
shots. It just went the wrong side of the post. They’re the tight margins, the further on you go, the better the opposition becomes. If you make mistakes, you’ll get punished. But you could not say enough about that group of players, they have been absolutely super”. Bruen says that the success of the team has lifted the whole community in Castlerea over the past 12 months. “The journey has been just unbelievable. It has been so refreshing and enjoyable. It has been good for the soul, not just for us. The town is buzzing. “There are people here today that
haven’t been at a game in 30 or 40 years. People are at a stage in life where maybe things aren’t going that well. People are struggling a small bit, and this has given something for people to latch onto. To be part of that has been great. It has driven us on too”. The manager says that the team will use the experience of the campaign when they take their place in the senior club championship later this year. “When the dust settles, we’ll take a lot of pride from that performance. It will stand us in good stead going forward into the senior championship” he concluded.
A fan commiserates with Castlerea manager Dara Bruen after a heartbreaking one-point defeat to Cill na Martra in the AIB All-Ireland Club IFC semi-final last Saturday. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
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Brigid’s into final as Derwin goal sets up storming of ‘Castle’
Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from
AIB All-Ireland Club SFC semi-final St Brigid’s 1-11 Castlehaven 0-10 < SEAMUS DUKE
A brilliant display in the opening 20 minutes was the key as St Brigid’s reached their first All-Ireland senior club final in 11 years when they had four points to spare in a deserved victory against Cork and Munster champions Castlehaven at FBD Semple Stadium last Sunday. Opening up a five-point lead by the 20th minute, the Roscommon side went out of the game for a while at the end of the first half and in the third quarter. They then picked up the pace again towards the end of the game and ran out the worthy winners. On a bitterly cold but fine day, the Semple Stadium pitch was just about playable after a night of heavy frost. It was St Brigid’s who were on top in the early stages. Points from Bobby Nugent (2) and Brian Derwin inside the opening four minutes set the tone as the Connacht champions played some delightful football. Castlehaven’s best player, Brian Hurley, opened their account with a point in the 6th minute but less than a minute later Ben O’Carroll restored Brigid’s’ three-point advantage with another well-taken point. Brigid’s may have been dominating, but Castlehaven’s cause was not helped by Brian Hurley missing two very scoreable frees early on. Those proved costly misses as the game progressed. In the 12th minute a sweeping St
Ben O’Carroll of St Brigid’s being tracked by Castlehaven’s Johnny O’Regan during last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Brigid’s move involving Eddie Nolan and Conor Hand set Ben O’Carroll free. When his way to goal was blocked, he found Brian Derwin who made no mistake from close-range for the only goal of the game. St Brigid’s followed up with a Ciaran Sugrue point in the 17th minute and the margin was now six. The Cork side improved towards half-time and in the 21st minute Cathal Maguire’s shot came back off a post and Cormac Sheehy bundled the ball away at the expense of a ’45. When Brian Hurley and Ben O’Carroll exchanged points in the 23rd and 26th minutes, the gap was still six (1-7 to
0-4), but Castlehaven were doing much better, and it would be 22 minutes before Brigid’s scored again. Brian Hurley and Cathal Maguire scored late points to send the teams in at half-time with Brigid’s leading by 1-7 to 0-6. Castlehaven continued in the ascendancy after the break, although Brigid’s had a golden goal chance in the 34th minute, but Paul McGrath lost control of the ball when clean through. Then Michael Hurley and Brian Hurley pointed to reduce the margin to two by the 40th minute. In the 42nd minute the west Cork side missed a gilt-edged chance to take the
The St Brigid’s squad ahead of their AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final against Castlehaven last Sunday in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
lead in the match when Rory Maguire was put through by Brian Hurley, but the full-back’s thundering shot crashed against the crossbar and the danger was cleared. It was a wake-up call that Brigid’s heeded. John Cunningham came on as a sub and he played a major role as the Roscommon champions came good once again, Robbie Dolan ending the scoring drought with a point in the 47th minute. Brian Hurley, always a thorn in the side of St Brigid’s, was on target with two pointed frees to reduce the margin to one with eight minutes to go. The second of those frees was a very soft one as it appeared that it was Brian Stack who was fouled and not Hurley. But St Brigid’s would not be denied. Cunningham kicked a mighty point from 35 metres in the 54th minute as the Roscommon champions surged for home. In injury-time (63rd minute), Paul McGrath steered over a point from close-range. Then with the Castlehaven players up the field looking for an equalising goal, the ball broke to Brigid’s and after Robbie Dolan was hauled down Ben O’Carroll chipped the resultant penalty over the crossbar for the ‘insurance point’. It was an excellent display from Jerome Stack’s side. They had some marvellous performers on the day. Pearse Frost, Ruaidhri Fallon, Eddie Nolan, Conor Hand, Brian Derwin and Bobby Nugent were excellent and a special word too for sub John Cunningham who made a huge contribution when introduced in the 44th minute. St Brigid’s will now face Glen of Derry in the final in Croke Park on Sunday week. While the Roscommon champions will be the underdogs, this young
team have sparkled on the big occasion many times this year and will go into the final with a real live chance. We all remember 2013 and that magnificent victory for Brigid’s in the AllIreland club final against Ballymun. Now it’s time for the class of 2024 to write their own bit of history. Don’t rule them out.
Teams & scorers St Brigid’s: Cormac Sheehy; Alan Daly, Brian Stack, Pearse Frost; Ruaidhri Fallon, Ronan Stack, Paul McGrath (0-1); Eddie Nolan, Shane Cunnane; Conor Hand, Ciaran Sugrue (0-1), Robbie Dolan (0-1); Ben O’Carroll (0-3, 0-1 pen), Brian Derwin (1-1), Bobby Nugent (0-3, 1 free). Subs: John Cunningham (0-1) for Derwin (44), Mark Daly for Cunnane (53), Conor Gleeson for Nugent (60). Castlehaven: Darragh Cahalane; Johnny O’Regan, Rory Maguire, Ronan Walsh; Thomas O’Mahony, Damien Cahalane, Mark Collins; Conor Cahalane, Andrew Whelton; Ciaran O’Sullivan, Brian Hurley (0-7, 3 frees, 1 ‘45), Sean Browne; Cathal Maguire (0-2), Jack Cahalane, Michael Hurley (0-1). Subs: Conor O’Driscoll for Browne (h/t); James O’Driscoll for O’Sullivan (58), Michael Maguire for Conor Cahalane (60). Referee: David Coldrick (Meath).
Stat Attack Wides: St Brigid’s 7 (1, first half ); Castlehaven 4 (2, first half ) Red cards: 0 Black cards: 0 Yellow cards: St Brigid’s 3 (Conor Hand, Eddie Nolan, Brian Stack); Castlehaven 1 (Michael Hurley) Attendance: Approx. 3,350 Man of the Match: Conor Hand (St Brigid’s)
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‘It’s a dream come true’ – Hand < SEAMUS DUKE
Paul McGrath, joint captain of St Brigid’s, gets the ball away as Castlehaven’s Jack Cahalane closes in during this phase of play in last Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
Conor Hand, one of the young guns that have propelled Brigid’s into the All-Ireland final, was superb on Sunday… carrying the ball forward numerous times and setting up many attacks during the game. He was ecstatic after Sunday’s final whistle. “To be in the final is class. We grew up watching the team of 2013 (when St Brigid’s won the All-Ireland) and we went to all those matches. Now to be playing in a final is a dream come true”. Conor agreed that Brigid’s’ good start was key to their victory. “We played really well in the first 15 minutes and I suppose that we caught them on the hop. In fairness to Castlehaven they were a different team in the second half and we had to really dig deep to come through. The extra bit of training that we have done over the past few weeks stood to us today and we stuck together as a team. “We had great subs off the bench again and you saw John Cunningham coming on and scoring a great point and that settled the game down for us again”. Conor says that reaching this All-Ireland final will revive memories of the club’s 2013 exploits. “I remember being at that game (the final). I was only 10 at the time and we were looking up to those lads… to think that we are now there and young lads are looking up to us is unreal. It’s a class feeling and we are looking forward to it already”.
‘Biggest emotion is relief’ – Stack < SEAMUS DUKE
Jerome Stack, manager of St Brigid’s, was a relieved man in the aftermath of the game, forwarding the view that it had actually been a patchy performance from his side. “The biggest emotion now is relief! I am absolutely delighted for the players and delighted for the club and everybody involved with it. When we look back on the game there will no doubt be parts of it, particularly in the first half, that we’ll be very happy with, and there’ll be parts in the second half that we’ll need to try and address, and to find the reasons why things played out like they did” he said. The Kerry native was asked how did it happen that the team were playing so well and then went over 20 minutes without a score? “I think it’s an impossible question to answer with any certainty, but you can throw different things into it. Castlehaven coming into the mix and how they went about things in the second half, there was our shot selection at times, and if we had got a bit of momentum there, that could have changed
things. I don’t think it was confidence, but momentum is a big thing in football”. Did he agree that Brian Stack was under pressure on Sunday from Brian Hurley, who scored 0-7? “What Brian Stack has done this year has been unbelievable and I would have said that he did very well today too, but we didn’t give him the protection that we have in other games, and maybe that’s something we need to look at. Then you throw into it that Brian Hurley is a top class inter-county forward who I rate extremely highly. You have Michael Hurley and Jack Cahalane up there as well, so in one way I see the positive that we were still able to hold things within reason and win the match”. And the prospects for the All-Ireland final? “It’s still only a game of football, and it’s a game that only two clubs in the country get to play and we’re one of those, so we’ve already earned the right to do that. It’s a final, there’s two teams in it and as far as I’m concerned, that’s a fantastic chance, and we’ll give it our best shot” he concluded.
Jerome Stack pictured during Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell
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Roscommon People Friday 12 January 2024
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