14 May 2021 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

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Brighter Days! Enjoying the sunshine in Ballyleague this week were Geraldine Horohoe, Harper and Willow Horohoe and Patricia McGann. Pic: Mick McCormack Real Solutions for Rural Ireland

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Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

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People WATCHING With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

No Istan-bull, here’s a plan to see the game (not involving ladders)…

DNA Testing of Dog Waste I read your recent article noting that dog owners are obliged to remove dog waste from public areas. Is it true that DNA testing may be carried out to identify the offending dog and therefore their owner? The Litter Pollution Act, 1997 (as amended by the Waste Management (Amendment) Act 2001 and the Protection of the Environment Act 2003), governs litter pollution and introduced heavy penalties in Ireland to help combat the problems of litter pollution more effectively. The definition of ‘litter’ under this legislation is quite wide and extends from casual pieces of paper or cigarette ends to anything large or small that is, or is likely to become, unsightly. It also includes dog faeces. Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997 indicates that it is an offence to allow a dog under your control to foul a public place. This means the owner/person in charge of the dog is required to remove dog faeces and dispose of it in a suitable, sanitary manner. Failure to do so may result in an on the spot fine of €150 or a fine of up to €3,000 if convicted in the District Court. Your local authority is responsible for implementing the litter laws in your area. This means it is responsible for the prevention and control of litter and has the power to take enforcement action against people who contravene these laws. Leitrim County Council are to be commended for being the first local authority to bring in DNA testing of dog faeces to help identify offenders who fail to pick up their dog waste from public places.

Can’t wait! Huh? The big game! Oh yeah! The mighty, all-conquering Blues take centre stage! Yeah… Taking on the gritty underdogs! Yeah…who’d have thought…Manchester City – the Sky Blues – meeting Chelsea in the Champions League Final! No! Not THAT game….the other Blues…the Dubs play the Rossies this Sunday!

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to savour the prospect of the return of Gaelic football) We have to be there… Huh? At the game. We have to go… Istanbul? But it’s in Turkey! It’s just not realistic… No, not to the Champions League Final! NOT TO ISTANBUL! We have to go to the Hyde… We can’t! There’s still a ‘no spectators’ rule… But what if we’re imaginative… Huh? (They pause to ponder on the challenge of trying to be imaginative…) Seamus Duke. Huh? He’ll be there for the People, we could try and get in with him…have you a number for Dukie? No! Look, he’ll have a press pass, like the rest of the media… Willie? Yes, HE WILL! No…I mean Willie Hegarty… Go on… Maybe we could get in as co-commen-

(They pause to pour two drinks)

tators? You know, Willie could switch to us…‘And now, over to the Barstool Boyos for a fans’ perspective on that opening 20 minutes…’ I could even throw a pen to liven it up… Nah, Shannonside have a panel of experts to call on, they’re not going to take on amateurs… DRINKS? I’d love one, but it’s a bit early… No, I mean we could bring drinks on… to the players. Act as runners! I’ll call Anthony. Forget it, we’re not going to the match! We have to! It’s the Dubs and Roscommon! I have to think of something! (A rather undistinguished pause ensues) I have it! Oh dear… You know the way Dublin manager

The easing of a number of Covid-19 restrictions, effective from Monday last, has lifted public morale, is a boost to businesses and hints at better times to come.

What we didn’t like…

Overall progress nationally in the fight against Covid-19 notwithstanding, it was a bad week in relation to case numbers in County Roscommon. We need to continue to follow the guidelines and remain vigilant.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

What PEOPLE are talking about…

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Okay, it’s got to be the men in white coats… Now that’s drastic, plus I doubt if it’s a politically correct term any more. I won’t have any talk of men in white coats… No, I mean we go as umpires! Huh? MEN IN WHITE COATS. UMPIRES! That way we get to see the game! Look, the umpires are already appointed. We’re not going! But…what about my innovative ideas? They’re a load of Istan-BULL! Oh alright…by the way, I’ve just heard Istanbul is off! The venue is being switched! So be it, we’re not going to the Champions League Final either, even if it’s moved to the Hyde! Okay… Let’s just be glad the football’s back! We’ll welcome the Dubs, raise a glass to the Rossies, and watch it on TV… Oh I didn’t realise it’s on TV…sure that’s grand so!

What we liked…

Not only is dog faeces unsightly, but it also poses a risk to human health, especially young children. Dog owners should also be mindful of vulnerable members of their community including wheelchair users, visually impaired people and those who use buggies and prams. One can expect other local authorities to follow the example set by Leitrim County Council.

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

Dessie Farrell is banned…due to that secret lockdown training… Yeah…but Dessie’s a good guy… I know, but listen to my plan! We find out where the Club Rossie bus picks up the players… Yeah… Then we plant a friend. Let’s call him our DESSIE DOUBLE. He wears a Dublin top, a mask and that familiar Dessie cap….then he walks past the Club Rossie bus, and we go: ‘Hey, it’s Dessie Farrell…spying!’ Yeah… Then, with the Roscommon players distracted, we hop on the bus when they’re not looking! Eh…I think we’ll have that drink…

PIC OF THE WEEK: A horse and foal pictured on the banks of Lough Ree at Ballyleague earlier this week. Picture: Mick McCormack

Positive developments on the pandemic front; the Lions’ squad for the tour of South Africa is selected, with Johnny Sexton a notable omission; Eoghan Harris is dropped by the Sunday Independent; anti-social behaviour on some city streets; the return of inter-county GAA…and Rory’s winning again!

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Covid cases continue to rise in Roscommon < DAN DOONER

Roscommon now has the fourth highest rate of Covid-19 cases in the country following confirmation of eleven new cases in the county yesterday (Wednesday) and twelve new cases on Tuesday. The latest news means that there have been a total of 126 new cases confirmed in Roscommon within the last 14 days, putting the county’s incidence rate of 195.2 per 100,000 of the population just behind Kildare, Donegal, and Dublin. A primary school in the county remained closed this week after 19 members of the school community tested positive for Covid-19. The National Public Health Emergency team has been monitoring the situation in counties like Roscommon and Donegal following the recent spike in the number of positive cases.

Nationally, the Department of Health was yesterday notified of eight additional deaths related to Covid-19 and 448 new cases. As of 8 am on Tuesday, 109 patients were hospitalised with the disease, of which 34 are in ICU. There were twelve additional hospitalisations in the previous 24 hours. Meanwhile, the Department of Health has confirmed that as of Monday (10th), 2,331,800 vaccines had been delivered to Ireland and 1,882,635 doses administered with over 35% of the population aged 16 years and older having received at least one dose. Moderna Inc. has requested that 50% of its vaccine is held back for second doses and similarly, an appropriate buffer amount is held back for all vaccines to ensure availability of second doses the following week.

Main Street to reopen on June 11th Main Street in Roscommon town will reopen to oneway traffic on Friday, June 11th following confirmation from Roscommon County Council that the main pipelines have been completed and road construction has commenced this week. The street had been closed due to Public Realm Enhancement works, which are set to continue on The Square in Roscommon until the end of the summer. Works will also continue on footpaths on each side of Main Street until June 11th when the road reopens to traffic in a south to north direction and around the west side of The Square. According to the local authority, the majority of Main Street works will be completed by Jume but some work on footpaths may continue for a short time after. From June 11th, the east side of The Square will be closed for works which will be ongoing until August.

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Works begin on old Royal Hotel in Boyle Roscommon County Council has confirmed that refurbishment works have commenced at the old Royal Hotel site in Boyle this week. The works will be funded under the Rural Regeneration Development

Fund and Roscommon County Council. The project will see the full refurbishment of the old hotel into an exhibition space and enterprise centre as well as the enhancement of the exterior to the building to include an

and public investment into Boyle town as envisaged in the Boyle 2040 Framework. Part of the statement read: ‘Roscommon County Council looks forward to realizing the project over the next 12

months with local stakeholders including Boyle Town Team and Boyle Chamber of Commerce. The contractors are Elliott Properties Limited under the supervision of De Blacam and Meagher Architects’.

Emer Kelly becomes Roscommon’s youngest councillor

newsbriefs AILG role for Cllr Anthony Waldron At a special meeting of Roscommon County Council on Tuesday, Independent Councillor Anthony Waldron was unanimously appointed to the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) to replace Councillor Ivan Connaughton, who retired recently. Speaking following his appointment, Cllr. Waldron thanked his fellow councillors and promised to promote the county at every available opportunity in his new role.

21-year-old Ballyforan native, Emer Kelly, was officially co-opted to Roscommon County Council on Tuesday, following the resignation of former councillor Ivan Connaughton, making her one of the youngest councillors in the country. Emer Kelly’s election means that there are now four women on the council of 18 members. The new Independent councillor has this week called for immediate action on theory tests, which remain suspended. Cllr. Kelly said she

was aware of a number of young people in the south Roscommon area who have been waiting to sit their theory test for the past number of months. “One particular teenager has been rescheduled six times, with still no clarification on a secure date,” she said. “Many teenagers and young adults tend to seek work in the agricultural sector during the summer months, working for local agricultural contractors and farmers. The delay in theory tests will result in loss of employment for these individuals, who would otherwise obtain insurance to drive

tractors and machinery with the allocation of their provisional license. This in turn will lead to increased financial strain on younger people saving for college and rent, impacting their mental health tremendously”. Cllr. Kelly said the situation also had the potential to impact local farmers and contractors and farmers with many under pressure to meet the demands of farmers in summer and autumn months. She claims the situation is nearing crisis point for many and called for the reintroduction of testing to relieve strain on those affected.

not serving food. Responding, Minister Martin said: “Under one strand of this scheme, grants for outdoor seating and accessories are available to a range businesses selling food for consumption on their premises. Work is underway to ex-

amine how pubs that do not serve food can be similarly supported. “The Government will soon be publishing a National Economic Recovery Plan outlining how we will help people return to work and support sectors which have been disproportion-

ately affected by the pandemic. “Government will consider more targeted measures to help reboot those sectors, such as tourism, which face particular challenges during the recovery phase when the economy reopens,” she said.

< DAN DOONER

New support for local volunteers Roscommon Volunteer Centre will officially launch its services on Monday next (17th) in conjunction with National Volunteering Week (May 17th-23rd). According to the centre’s manager, Shannette Budhai, Roscommon Volunteer Centre will offer information and guidance to both people who wish to volunteer and local non-profits. A database of local volunteering opportunities is available at www.volunteerroscommon. ie. For local organisations, Roscommon Volunteer Centre will advertise volunteering vacancies and provide a free volunteer referral service. The centre also provides advice, training, and consultancy on a range of issues. For more information, contact Shannette Budhai (Manager) on 089-2199930, email manager@ volunteerroscommon.ie, or visit volunteerroscommon.ie.

outdoor civic space and river promenade. According to a statement from Roscommon County Council, the project was made possible through Ireland Project 2040 and will be a catalyst for future private

21-year-old Ballyforan native, Emer Kelly, was officially coopted on Roscommon County Council on Tuesday.

Covid supports will be available for ‘wet pubs’

< DAN DOONER

Supports will be made available for pubs which do not serve food as they look to reopen later this summer, according to Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin. Responding to a parliamentary question from Sinn Féin TD, the Minister said the Government would soon be publishing a National Economic Recovery Plan to support sectors which had been disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Deputy Kerrane had asked whether grants, similar to those under Fáilte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme, would be available to pubs

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

NewsPeople

Westcare Homecare: 50 new jobs for Roscommon < DAN DOONER

There was a major jobs boost for Roscommon this week as homecare provider Westcare Homecare announced 50 new jobs for the county as well as a new office in Roscommon town. The announcement was part of 70 new jobs in Roscommon and Galway over the next 12 months and the opening of two new offices to support Westcare in the delivery of care to older persons within the local community. Director of Westcare Homecare, Sharon Carter said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our new Roscommon and Tuam offices. We look forward to recruiting our team from the local community to provide care to the elderly whilst helping them remain in their own home for as long as possible. “We offer flexible and rewarding employment opportunities for healthcare staff and are delighted to announce our latest expansion plans. “The mission of Westcare Homecare Services is to provide person-centred care to their clients and their families and this is done in a dignified and professional manner”. Minister for Business, Employment and Retail Damien English described it as a “good day” for Roscommon and Tuam while Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said it was a vote of confidence in Roscommon and Galway. “Roscommon has one of the highest percentages of older people in the country and figures show that the number of people over the age of 65 is expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040, or about 23% of the total population. “It is most welcome to see that the Government is committed to policies which support the choice of older people to live in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

Minister Damien English and Senator Aisling Dolan pictured following the announcement of 50 new jobs in Roscommon with Westcare Homecare.

“I must also commend Westcare Homecare for their vote of confidence in the Roscommon and Galway region with the creation of these 70 new jobs which will bring a welcome boost to the area,” Senator Murphy said. Meanwhile, Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said the company was building on its strong local base. “This is tribute to the two women who started this company, Sharon Carter and Geraldine Casserly, and it is a poignant time for the Casserly family following Geraldine’s recent sad passing. “The expansion of Westcare Homecare and job creation in Geraldine’s home county is a fantastic legacy for her and her family to have. There is a strong local base which the company has developed to enable it to reach today’s milestone,” she said.

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Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday

Sunday

Warren Gatland, who announced his Lions squad today, is a serious man…who generally sports a serious expression. It’s Dour Central with our Warren! He’s one of those ‘You either love him or hate him’ type of guys who add spice to our sporting lives. In public, Gatland’s direct, uncompromising, utterly charmless. I have no doubt it’s a different story off-camera. He’s a serious rugby man with a proven record as a world class coach. Good for Warren. I guess if we want laughs we should switch from those postmatch interviews and browse the channels for a comedian. I digress. In his much-anticipated selection, Gatland has included eight Irish players in a 37-strong Lions’ squad for the tour of South Africa. There is surprise at the omission of James Ryan, disappointment too at the exclusion of Johnny Sexton. For what it’s worth, I can understand why Sexton didn’t make the cut. While his experience would have been very beneficial – including off the field – it’s hard to argue with the coach’s blunt view that the now 35-year-old injury-battered star might have struggled to play a number of games over a short period. In these parts, as anywhere in the world where rational people are to be found, we welcome the inclusion of Athlone’s Robbie Henshaw, who has been in sensational form. It promises to be an interesting tour. If the Lions fall short, Gatland’s choices will be unsparingly revisited. If they triumph, his shrewd leadership, singlemindedness and aversion to sentimentality will be acknowledged, enthusiastically by some, grudgingly by others. Either way, he’ll maintain that steely expression, the look of a man whom you should cross at your peril!

Tonight, Northern Irish sporting superstars take over the TV. The first episode of ‘Gods of Snooker’ (BBC2) featured the late, great Alex ‘Hurricane’ Higgins. It was a thoroughly enjoyable nostalgia trip, even if many of us have seen much of the footage before. Even with Alex thrilling and tormenting from the past, and with GAA match highlights back on RTE, the absolute ‘mustwatch’ of the night was the Wells Fargo Championship, where another Northern Irishman was the star turn. Rory McIllroy – born seven years after Higgins won his second world title in 1982 – ended a very poor run of form with a fine victory. Part of McIllroy’s appeal is a swashbuckling style that can see him destroy a golf course when he is inspired, while also being prone to occasionally self-imploding. This man is so blessed by the golfing Gods, a return to the winner’s enclosure was inevitable. Of course, as so often with McIllroy, there was drama. He’s programmed to thrill. Leading by two on the last, it should have been a green-tinted victory stroll in front of his adoring American fans (now back on the course). But McIllroy conjured up a dreadful tee shot, finding deep rough near a creek. Potential calamity awaited. Genius prevailed, McIllroy arrowing the ball past hazards on to the embrace of the green. Rory’s return, coinciding with bigger crowds being allowed to attend, was a dream for golf, its sponsors and the TV companies. So too were the images of Rory celebrating with his wife Erica and their baby daughter, Poppy. Watching, I was struck by how fitting a finale this family celebration was to a great night’s TV viewing. Just an hour earlier, the ‘Gods of Snooker’ documentary had ended with the iconic moment when an emotional Alex Higgins hugged his wife Lynn and their baby daughter, Lauren at the close of the 1982 World Snooker Final. Similar heartwarming images, almost forty years apart. Another Northern Ireland sporting God is now strutting again in front of the watching world.

Later on Thursday Tonight, in an unexpected late-night thriller for Twitter fans, Eoghan Harris is exposed over his involvement with a fake social media account. Pugnacious Eoghan has been a naughty boy online. The so-called ‘Barbara Pym’ Twitter account – now suspended – frequently tweeted praise of Harris, while attacking other journalists. The Sunday Independent has now dropped the veteran columnist. I’m not keen on kicking a man when he’s down, and I detest the cancel culture. That said, it’s clear that Harris – whose column is often more bizarre rant than reasoned argument – is at the very least guilty of hypocrisy.

Mote Park, just outside Roscommon town. A haven for walkers in the locality.

It’s dubious enough that a high profile columnist was a party to this anonymous account and its often vitriolic content; when that columnist has a history of writing about ethics within the media, the hypocrisy is self-evident. (In subsequent days, Twitter suspended a further eight accounts which the company says had links to the Barbara Pym account; Harris has admitted involvement with ‘Barbara’ but denies having anything to do with the other accounts).

Friday At around 9.10 on this beautiful morning – school run done – I went to Mote Park for a walk. From what I could gather, I was the only person there at that time. Just me, thousands of bluebells and hundreds of chirping birds. As I’ve noted here before, it’s a beautiful, calming web of walks. If you aren’t familiar with the magnificent, stunning Mote Park, I highly recommend that you visit. This is nature in all its glory, with beautiful trees, delightful walks, and varied animal life nestling in the forest. The bluebells add a gorgeous dash of colour. The red squirrel is celebrated. There is quaint, unimposing signposting, a picnic area, benches on which to relax. In Mote Park, the bluebells and trees and the singing birds are immune to wars and pandemics, to inequality and misery, to greed and turmoil. The insects and birds aren’t on Twitter. This is an untainted world, natural and timeless. By 9.30 am, walkers are emerging in the

sunshine and shadows. Cheery ‘Good mornings’ circulate. A man briskly walks his dog. A middle-aged couple turn into the Crofton Trail with two dogs alongside. A mother passes with her toddler in a buggy, the kid twirling a twig and savouring the surrounds. When I return to my car just after 10 o’clock, there are eleven or twelve vehicles parked, the occupants merging into the maze of trails. The cheery sound of a radio broadcaster seeping from one woman’s headphones is the only challenge to the beguiling chorus from the trees. Serenity reigns. Mote Park is a glorious treasure on our doorstep.

Saturday 4.30 pm on a May Saturday, and Main Street in Roscommon is almost entirely deserted. The innards of the street remain exposed as the current major renovation project continues. On my walk, I meet only a handful of people. Many premises’ are closed. Some are open, but footfall is almost non-existent. It’s eerie. In the newly-created crater/valley, an assortment of JCBs and diggers stand dormant. It must be particularly strange late at night, although I am reminded of that scene in Toy Story when the motionless toys suddenly come to life! I chat with a local trader. He raises a question that had also crossed my mind. Why can’t work be ongoing in the ‘crater’ on this dry, pleasant Saturday? Surely it would be a big momentum driver (and of some reassurance to traders) if the works could continue on Saturdays, indeed at every available opportunity.

Monday/Tuesday Real progress now, with more and more people – of varying ages – sporting broad smiles after an appointment is confirmed on the phone. Hour by hour, men and women walk into those rooms, are offered a seat, and before they know it they are looked after. The roll-out of haircare by barbers and hairdressers shows no sign of slowing down.

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McDermott welcomes removal of phone box and ESB pole A very familiar landmark in Roscommon Town will be removed as part of the ongoing Roscommon Public Realm project. The phone box in the centre of the Main Street is to be removed next week. Meanwhile, an ESB pole which is located on Goff Street will be removed over the coming weeks. In a press statement, Fianna Fáil

councillor Marty McDermott has welcomed these decisions, stating that the phone box and pole were both the subject of some concern for locals. “They were considered to be unsightly at this stage and in fact some traders said they were an obstruction”. Cllr. McDermott met with a Council engineer on the issue of the pole

and also raised the issue of the phone box, as did other councillors. Following discussions with the Council a decision was taken to remove both structures. Cllr. McDermott has welcomed the news, and thanked Roscommon County Council and Lydon Construction for their help on this matter. He has also acknowledged the input of fellow county councillors.

Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets! John Cleese @JohnCleese Make time to laugh today. Laughter will save the world. #besilly #laugh -Some timely advice from the comedy genius Sinéad Hussey @SineadHus The painful memories of Garth-gate brought back on #reelingintheyears He’ll come back one day won’t he?! -Well, he might come back ONE day…but will he stay for three concerts, or five, or…oh, we’re bored already! Paul Reid @paulreiddublin The end of a really strong week on completed vaccines, approx 230K administered. 35 vaccination centres & GPs did super work. A positive week ahead with a further opening up of society, the economy & a planned increase again on vaccinations. We’re getting there @HSELive

fun on ‘Lions squad announcement’ day… Wexford GAA @OfficialWexGAA Clarification that it was Mikie Dwyer that scored both first half goals even though he was wearing the wrong numbered jersey. Tweeting error due to old age and lack of food and was brought to our attention by 150 phonecalls from Fethard. -Nice tweet to signal return of inter-county hurling and all that goes with it! Steve Doherty @SteveDoherty1 I really need a “what have I seen him in?” app for watching tv. -Yep, we can identify with this; and surely an ‘Is she the actress from…’ app too? Chris O’Dowd @BigBoyler First weekend without the family in 15 months. Gird your loins, this guy’s about to to watch an OBSCENE amount of sport. -Chris was so excited, he used an extra ‘to’ in this tweet…

-Reassuring and welcome words from the HSE chief

Estebantz @ActingTheGom

Amy Huberman @amyhuberman

Move over Maria Bailey, we have a new worst interview ever on RTE. #EoghanHarris #drivetime

He’s not answering his phone. Did BOD get in? -The actress wife of Brian O’Driscoll has some

Amy Huberman

-Joe Jacob (former Minister of State) reportedly considering an appeal…

Garth Brooks

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

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Bealach Nua webinar on Wednesday, May 26th Pictured during the Indian Ambassador’s visit to Roscommon Town to thank Indian healthcare workers working in Roscommon are Selbin Babu (CNM, Sacred Heart Hospital), Sumathi Priya Ganesh (Senior Physiotherapist Sacred Heart Hospital), Sreenivasan Mohanavelu (Senior OT, Roscommon Disability Services), Ajay Kumar (Senior OT, Roscommon Primary care), and Sandeep Kumar (Indian Ambassador).

SALE OF SITES Roscommon County Council has 11 serviced sites at Forest View, Boyle for sale to persons who wish to construct a dwelling house for their own occupation. Purchase Price is €10,000 per site. Consideration will be given to persons in the following categories: (a) A person whose application for local authority housing has been approved by the local authority. (b) Tenants or tenant purchasers of local authority dwellings who wishes to build a house for his/her own use and return his/her present house to the local authority. (c) A tenant for more than one year of a house provided by a voluntary body under the Rental Subsidy Scheme & Capital Advance Leasing Facility Scheme who wishes to build a private house and return his/ her present house to the voluntary body. (d) A member of a co-operative or non-profit housing group of which at least 75% of the members are either tenant/tenant purchasers or persons whose applications for local authority housing have been approved by the local authority. (e) A person availing of a group or shared ownership project sponsored by a local authority or a building co-operative. (f ) Single Income Household – applicants whose gross household income in the previous tax year multiplied by 2.5 is €100,000 or less. Two Income Household – applicants whose gross income of principal (greater) earner in the previous tax year multiplied by 2.5 plus the gross income of the subsidiary (lesser) earner in the last income year is €100,000 or less. Applications will not be considered from persons who now or previously owned their own house or site, save in exceptional circumstances. Further particulars including application forms are available from: The Housing Business Unit, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. F42 VR98 Tel (090) 6637100. E-mail Address: housing@roscommoncoco.ie Or on the web at www.roscommoncoco.ie Applications should be submitted before 4.00pm on Friday, 28th May, 2021. Martin Lydon Director of Services – Housing, ICT (incl. Digital Transformation), Planning, Head of Finance and Roscommon MD Area Manager

Bealach Nua, which means New Way in English, is the suitably titled name of an innovative service for families and friends of people with mental health difficulties. First established in 2015 in Mayo, the service has now expanded to Roscommon and Galway. An interesting aspect of this service is the support it offers families in challenging times, which in turn lends support to loved ones experiencing mental health difficulties. Bealach Nua will host an informative Zoom webinar on Wednesday, May 26th from 10 am to 2 pm.

Guest speakers included Noel Feeley (Roscommon Sports Partnership), who will discuss the benefit of nutrition and exercise for our mental health; Loretta Bracken (Psychotherapist), and Peter Livingstone (Clinical Nurse Specialist). Join Bealach Nua on the day gain an increased understanding of taking care of your and your family’s mental health and learning the signs of when and how to seek help. To register for this free event please contact Mary by phone at 087-3725891 or by email at Mary.OConnellGannon@hse.ie.

Sacred Heart Church: Mass arrangement station areas The parish areas for this weekend (May 15th and 16th) are as follows: 7pm (vigil) on Saturday at Stonepark North/Wilson Close/Lisadurn/Turville, 9 am on Sunday at Henry Street/ Circular Road/Riverside Avenue, and 11.30 am on Sunday at Hawthorn Drive. Thank you for your cooperation with this arrangement.

newsbriefs Roscommon CEP funding welcomed Community Enhancement Programme funding of €133,301 has been welcomed for Co. Roscommon. The funding will provide small grants designed to assist in the reopening of facilities such as community centres, men’s, and women’s sheds, parish halls and youth centres. Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy said the funding was most welcome and urged all interested groups to contact their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said it had been a tough year for clubs but this funding would allow them to get back up and running after lockdown.

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council intends to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified. Road to be closed: L7066 Coolroghaun, Kilbegnet, Co. Roscommon Period of Closure: 14th to 18th June 2021 Alternative Routes: L7065/L1820/L1821 Reason for Closures: Road Opening Objections in respect of the proposed closure may be made in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department or e-mailed to roads@roscommoncoco.ie to arrive not later than 5pm on Friday 21st May 2021. Shane Tiernan Director of Services

Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021 The Town and Village Renewal Scheme is part of a range of measures to support the revitalisation of rural towns and villages throughout Ireland. The programme is funded under Project Ireland 2040 as part of ‘Our Rural Future – Ireland’s Rural Development Policy 2021-2025.’ Roscommon County Council is now seeking expressions of interest from towns/ villages and will select proposals for development into detailed applications to be submitted to the Department. Selection of projects under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme for 2021 will be by means of a competitive process. In order to facilitate community groups to prepare an Expression of Interest Roscommon County Council will host a webinar on 19th May 2021 @ 7pm. Please email regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie to request a link. Details of the scheme can be accessed at www.roscommoncoco.ie and the Expression of Interest will be available for completion after the webinar. Expressions of Interest must be submitted via My Online Services at: https://roscommon-self.achieveservice.com Closing date for receipt of Expressions of Interest is 4th June 2021 @ 5pm. Any queries relating to the application process or eligibility for the scheme can be emailed to regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie Majella Hunt, Director of Services

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Halcyon Group wins Facilities Management The Company Halcyon Group, Roscommon CSR Initiative of the Year Awardwins Facilities

Founded in 2004, Halcyon Group now employs 600 part-time and full-time staff and boasts a broad client base across manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, retail, money without hospitalit y, heal thcare,compromising on us theGov end result” and vario ernm ent added Ms Meakin. Departm ents. Crosby has recently HalcyonVicky is a high ly joined the group as the CFO specialise d clea ning Financial Officer) services(Chief compan y providing “I’m the expe rtisedelighted , skills andto be joining theeGroup atnica a time knowledg on tech l when plans the expansion are cleaning requfor irem ents from advancing and clea in particular ventilatio n-extraction ning theazar group survive throughtotosee bioh d clea ning covid-19 byrol. innovating and infec tion cont Halcyon and also carrdiversifying ies Professiotheir nal product I’m looking Indemniofferings, ty insuranc e mea ningforward working withthey all the team” that anytoduct cleaning said Ms Crosby. do is TR19 -cer tified , which is essential for fire-safety Creating theceeco circle and insuranc e complian certificate. “Although Halcyon has a strongwe have Corporatinnovative e Social products and insour Responsiservices bility etho andexisting suite ofe offerings, we takes prid in deliverin g realised that in order for Halcyon sustainable, environm entally to grow, we need immerse friendly prod ucts to and servicesourselves in research that not only benefit and the development, environmboth ent, of butnew alsoproducts support and of waysities of doing the local new commun in things” said Mr Kirwan “so, we’ve which they ope rate . The mul ti looked at two award winn ing com pankey y is areas where Halcyon can make committed to driving the anda impact: green agen in the sustainability hygieneandstry, investing in our local services indu with man y To address both innovativecommunity. products and of these issues we will be services offe rings.

H Management CSR Initiative of the year Award

alcyon Group, based in Roscommon town, has won Ireland’s Facilities Management Awards 2021 in the category of alcyon Social Group, Responsibility based of mind to staff, customers Corporate in Roscommon Town, visitors alike. Initiative of the Year, as well asand comhas won Ireland’s “This ing in second place in the category of award goes to Facilities Management everyone on our team who Covid-19 Crisis Response Award. Awards, in theof category of annual have worked tirelessly over The2021 winners the eighth Corporate Social Responsibility last year especially our Facilities Management Awardsthe were Initiative of the as digital ‘front line heroes’ who are out revealed inyear frontasofwell a live coming in second place in theApril 29th. there doing the hard work. audience on Thursday, category of Covid-19 Crises It is wonderful to have our Launched in 2014, the Facilities Response Award. efforts acknowledge in this Management Awards is the premier On Thursday, April 29th, way as we look forward to awards programme recognising thecountry reopening and 2021, the winners of the the excellent work carried out by Ireeighth annual Facilities brighter days ahead” said Mr land’s facility and property manageManagement Awards were Kirwan. ment in teams revealed frontand of companies. a live The CSR Award was given in digital audience. Launched The Company recognition of Halcyon’s generosity in 2014, the Facilities during theAwards Covid-19 crisis, offering Management is the Founded in 2004, Halcyon hospital-grade infection-controlGroup fog- now employs 600 premier awards programme in recognising thebusinesses excellent in County part-time and full-time staff ging to small work carried out free by Ireland’s Roscommon of charge. and boasts a broad client facility and property base across manufacturing, “We realise the financial burden the management and on businesses pharmaceuticals, retail, pandemic teams has placed companies. healthcare, in Roscommon, and those thathospitality, have The award wasneed in the extra and various Government hadCSR to close don’t exrecognition Halcyon’sbefore they Departments. Halcyon is a pense ofof disinfection get Pictured iscleaning Peter Kirwan, CEO of Halcyon Group. generosity the said Peter Kirwan, highly specialised back to during business,” COVID-19 crisis, offering services company providing Halcyon Group CEO. hospital-grade infectionthe expertise, skills and our ‘frontline heroes’, who are viruses – including coronavirus. The this certificate can be displayed on “This is our way of giving back to control fogging to small knowledge on technical out there doing the hard work. It disinfectant remains active for three the premises to provide peace of our community”. business in County cleaning to requirements is wonderful to have our efforts four weeks, giving businesses mind to staff, customers and visitors To decontaminate an area, Halcyon Roscommon Free of Charge. from ventilation-extraction acknowledged in this way as we peace of mind. alike. a fogging process with hospital“Weuses realise the financial cleaning through to biohazard look forward to the country reopenIn addition, Halcyon carries “This award goes to everyone on grade disinfectant that’s proven burden the pandemic has cleaning and infection ing and brighter days ahead,” Mr. Professional Indemnity Insurance our team who have worked tireeffective against bacteria, fungicontrol. and Halcyon also carries placed on businesses in Halcyon Group CEO; Peter Kirwan. Kirwan concluded. allowing them to certify their work lessly over the last year, especially Roscommon and those that Professional Indemnity

expanding our operations into have had to close don’t insurance meaning that any green initiatives is the floorfryers and serve food that retailers and so on. There are manufacturing and safety need the extra expense of duct cleaning they do is TR19refinishing service and the meets EU safety standards, ways to renovate these floor education. We have plans in disinfection before they get certified, which is essential Zeco oil-filtration system. which they can measure using and make it look like new by place to manufacture these back to business,” said Peter for fire-safety and insurance Halcyon Zeco: This the system’s tester probe. The taking off the old seal and oil-filtration machines in Kirwan, Halcyon Group CEO compliance certificate. system addresses a key Zecomost alsorecent delivers an system’s added testerrelaying Roscommon Town, thereby Two of Halcyon Group’s probe. a new seal. RecentThe financial saving is also a big “This is our way of giving Halcyon strong the company issuehas in the safety are advantage: the system shown that incentiveinvesting in the Halcyon Group CEO Peter Kirwan sayshas thataalthough a sustainability successful green initiatives its The Zeco alsostudies delivers have an added safety for businesses: “Incommunity, fact, the back torange our community.” Social challenge: reduction is anand enclosed kitchen thethe saving your carbonsaving amounts creating and contributing of innovative productsCorporate and services, in order for it to experience fur- wastefloor-refinishing service the Zecounit, soadvantage: system is anon enclosed to jobs around 90% of the To decontaminate Responsibility and and development. by reducing the use of from to a 92% to reinvigorating this part oil-filtration system.porters are protectedunit, so kitchenfootprint– porters areequates protected cost of replacing a floor excluding the ther growth, thean business must immerse itselfethos in research Halcyon Zeco is a system that burns from from accidental burns from cost of downtime. youWhere replaceina area, Halcyon a fogging takeswhere prideHalcyon in delivering cooking accidental hot-oil saving” saidhot-oil Linda Meakin, of rural When Ireland “We’veuses looked at two key areas can make an impact: sus-oil by extending addresses a key issue in theSome 61% of worker’s spills. Oil burnsSales typically cause some tedious that requires process with hospital-grade sustainable, environmentally its life through filtration, spills. Director at Halcyon.floor, it’s athe earlyprocess years pursuing tainability and investing in our local community,” he said. sustainability challenge: waste 61% of worker’s compensation claims is also days of shutdown. By extending the disinfectant that’s proven friendly products and services thereby reducing waste compensation claims in The financial saving a eco-friendly options came “To address both of these issues, we will be expanding our operations into reduction by reducing the useare of typicallyincaused kitchens. big incentive for businesses. life of floors, Halcyon helps businesses effective against bacteria, that not only benefit the production and minimising kitchens at a premium, enhanced manufacturing and safety education. We have plans in place to manufacture cooking oil by extending its life Extending the life of floors by reduce their carbon footprint and save fungi and viruses, including environment supports the environmental impact. by oil burns. “In fact, the saving amounts technologies and cleaning through filtration, thereby reducing refinishing is another of Halcyon’s money without compromising on the these oil-filtration machines in Roscommonbut town, therebythe investing in the coronavirus. The disinfectant local communities in which Studies have showed to around 90% of the cost end of result, techniques help wastethat production and minimising the sustainability offerings is commercial ” added Ms. that Meakin. community, creating jobs and contributing to reinvigorating this part of rural remains active for three to they operate. The multi the Halcyon Zecoenvironmental can reduce impact. Extending the life replacing a floor excludingVicky the Crosby, businesses waste and floorof renovation. who hasreduce recently joined Ireland. four weeks, giving businesses award winning company is oil consumption by up tohave showed that floors by refinishing ofyou downtime. the life of Financial assets and Studies the Halcyon “The standardcost floors see in When you the groupextend as the CFO (Chief inaddition, the early years, committed pursuing eco-friendly came60%. at a Its pre-proven effective Zeco can reduce oil consumption schools, nursing homes,aretailers anda tedious Officer), said: “I’m delighted tomean be that peace of“Where mind. In to driving options the at replace floor, it’s consumables now mium, enhanced technologiesgreen and cleaning that help businesses by up to 60%. It’s proven effectiveofatHalcyon’s so on, there areprocess ways to that renovate group at a time when Halcyon carries Professional agenda techniques in the hygienefiltering oil and removing Another requires daysjoining the going green saves money. “It’s reduce waste andallowing extend the services life of assets and consumables mean that filtering contaminants these it look like plans for not the expansion arecan advancing Indemnity Insurance industry, with manynow contaminants such as oil and removing sustainability offerings is floor andofmake shutdown. Bynew extending a matter of you afford such as carbon and commercial the carcinogenic by taking off the seal relaying to see the group going green saves money. them to certify their work this innovative products and carbon and the carcinogenic floor renovation. theold life ofand floors, Halcyon and in particular to be sustainable,” said Mr compound acrylamide. This helps a new seal. Recent studies have survive Covid-19 by innovating and “It’scan notbe a matter of whether you can afford to beTwo sustainable,” Mr. Kirwan acrylamide. This certificate displayed on services offerings. of compound you see reduce their Kirwan, “It’s can you afford kitchens run cleaner“The fryersstandard and serve floors shown that thehelps savingbusinesses on your carbon diversifying their product offerings, I’m said, “It’s can you afford be?”most recent successful the premises to provide piece not to their helps kitchens run schools, nursing homes, carbon footprint not to?” foodcleaner that meets EU in safety standards, footprint equates to a 92% saving,and ” sayssavelooking forward to working with all the which they can measure using the Linda Meakin, Sales Director at Halcyon. team”.

Creating the ‘Eco Circle’

Sustainability with Halcyon Group

info@halcyongroup.ie

| Tel: 090 663 4880

| www.halcyongroup.ie

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

The

D News page

Roscommon Arts Centre’s gallery space reopens with new exhibition < DAN DOONER

There was good news for local art lovers this week as Roscommon Arts Centre’s Gallery space reopened to the public on Tuesday with a new exhibition of work by Barbara Knežević as part of the 2021 Visual Art Programme. ‘Scapes: Rose Quartz’ is a sculptural work that is comprised of an array of crystals, plants, ceramic coiled vessels, a single channel video work and silicone surfaces that are carefully arranged on clear acrylic display plinths.

In this iteration of the work produced specifically for Roscommon Arts Centre, ‘Scapes: Rose Quartz is exploded and amplified in scale and materials. For this presentation, a large steel form that duplicates and emulates the more intimate body-sized ceramic gizzard-like forms sits centrally in the space. Crystal printed lycra panels are suspended from the ceiling, repeating and amplifying the shape, colour and form of the crystals in the displays below. Barbara Knežević is an Aus-

tralian-born artist, living and working in Dublin. Her work is primarily object based and sculptural in form, appearing as complex, networked aggregations of objects and digital moving images. Roscommon Arts Centre’s 2021 Visual Art Programme is curated by artist Naomi Draper, who is Curator in Residence for 2021. The programme she has developed will merge her research interests around studio and educational practices looking at areas of play, materialism, and craft. Naomi is interested in the po-

tential of relationships between humans and other matter, and the role processes of production plays in this negotiation and transaction. Developing a range of exhibitions and events the programme intends to engage a variety of artistic disciplines and practices including; installation, sculpture, craft and making practices. Roscommon Arts Centre’s Gallery will be open to the public Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm. For more information, check out www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

Roscommon Arts Centre’s Gallery space has reopened this week with a new exhibition ‘Scapes: Rose Quartz’ by international artist Barbara Knežević.

Roscommon brother and sister star in ‘Dragon’ Clooncagh NS Spring Clean! Students of Clooncagh NS were busy recently, collecting litter on the roads adjacent to the school as part of our annual Spring Clean. While the student love collecting litter, they would prefer if there was none to be collected! They remind everyone: ‘Litter is a sin, so throw it in the bin!

Roscommon brother and sister, Ruadhán and Molly Mew, starred in comedy musical ‘Dragon’ by Fizz and Chips Productions at last weekend’s Galway Theatre Festival. Both have roots in Roscommon County Youth Theatre, managed by artistic director Catherine Sheridan. Actor, musician, and Karate instructor Ruadhán Mew began playing guitar at six years of age. He went on to perform with Pickles Theatre Company touring Europe where he co-founded Fizz and Chips Productions and now lives in Dublin teaching Karate in Hombu Dojo. He wrote the entire musical score of Dragon. Molly has recently graduated from Technological University of Dublin’s

Community spirit: A very big well done to all those who took part in the recent Roadside Spring Clean in Slatta, Co. Roscommon! Roscommon brother and sister, Molly Mew and Ruadhán Mew, performing in Dragon.

Conservatoire of Music and Drama with a Bachelors degree in Drama (Performance). Dragon marks her debut theatre performance since graduating. She has also starred in Fizz and Chip’s Irish language

short film Fatíos which will be screened in film festivals later this year. Dragon follows the life of Setanta, an Irish man in his late twenties who loves Tinder, coffee dates, and talking about dragons.

Nature walk: Fabienne Doherty, Cootehall, pictured enjoying Bluebell Forest earlier this week.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Business

Roscommon business owners invited to AtlanTec Festival Members of the Roscommon business community are being invited to learn more about how they can thrive through digital transformation as part of this year’s itag AtlanTec Festival from May 17th to Friday 21st. In its seventh year, the free online festival will feature leading business and

technology speakers and will cover a diverse array of topics such as networking in a changed world, needs for a digital workplace, artificial intelligence, drone technology, quantum computing, data and analytics, and the use of digital voice assistants. Last year over 3,000 people participated in the festival.

All talks are free to attend and accessible remotely. Anyone from Roscommon who wishes to participate just has to register in advance via www. atlantec.ie. Among the guest speakers will be former Twitter VicePresident Bruce Daisley, Microsoft’s Sarah Armstrong, Marek Zmuda of Intel and

many more. Caroline Cawley, itag CEO, says the festival will highlight what can be achieved by embracing digital transformation. “As anyone in the Roscommon business community will have witnessed over the last 14 months, we are increasingly

moving towards digitally enabled business and corporate environments,” she said. “What was already a trend has taken a major step forward driven by pandemic necessity. It means that more and more businesses in Roscommon and beyond are having to use digital technology to continue to operate in these remote

working, socially-distanced times. “We hope that people from Roscommon will take advantage of this top-class line up of speakers and topics and will register to attend these free talks which will run for a week beginning next Monday (17th),” Ms. Cawley concluded.

‘EU funding shows Europe is working for Roscommon’ - Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs Thomas Byrne says Roscommon has benefitted from EU funding.

Roscommon broadband update welcomed

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company in charge of rolling out the new high-speed fibre broadband network under the Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP), recently announced that build works in Roscommon are well underway. The latest update was welcomed by Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan, who said the roll-out of broadband across the county can’t happen fast enough. “This year, so many people have been trying to work from home, farmers are navigating online marts and application forms, students have been doing their best during lockdown and it hasn’t been easy,” she said. “The National Broadband Plan is about giving equal access to broadband for children in our schools to reach their full potential as well as our businesses so that they can compete in local, national and global markets. “It’s good to hear from National Broadband Ireland that 3,5000 premises have been surveyed and initial works have started in townlands around Roscommon town. We now need to ensure accelerated progress as we emerge from lockdown to build on Government investment of €76 million for the roll-out of high-speed broadband in County Roscommon”.

Speaking on Europe Day 2021 last Sunday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Thomas Byrne said the estimated 700,000 jobs created in Ireland since joining the European Union is 1973 showed that Europe continued to be crucial to the country’s development. “According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, an estimated 700,000 jobs have been created in Ireland since joining the EU,” Minister Byrne said. The Minister added that the benefits could also be felt in County Roscommon. “I have seen the value of European funding all across Roscommon. About 60km of aging and leaking water mains were upgraded in Roscommon by Irish Water, in a €8.9 million project co-financed by the European Regional De-

Cora Systems in Gartner ‘Magic Quadrant’

Carrick-on-Shannon based Cora Systems, a leading provider of enterprise project and portfolio management software solutions, was recently included by industry analysts Gartner in its annual ‘Magic Quadrant for Strategic Portfolio Management’ software. Cora Systems is one of only eleven global tech companies who made the cut, with many more unsuccessful providers failing to meet the analyst’s rigorous evaluation criteria. It is a major boost for the Leitrim-headquartered firm which has managed to grow their new customer base by 20% in the past year. The Gartner report is written by a team of industry analysts, who carefully monitor emerging trends and technologies. Leading companies across a range of sectors rely on the report’s advice so they can make informed buying decisions for their project management challenges. Commenting on the news, Cora Systems’ Founder and CEO Philip Martin, a native of Drumlion, Carrick-on-Shannon, said: “This is a game-changer for us. We’ve worked incredibly hard over the last couple of years to get to this position – to be able to eat at the table with the best project and portfolio management providers in the industry. This acknowledgment is reward for that effort. “We’ve always had a simple philosophy: we want to help our clients to get their portfolio selection right – and to manage those projects properly so they can make better investment decisions. Cora PPM delivers that ability”.

Cora Systems founder and Drumlion native, Philip Martin.

velopment Fund. Also, funding of €6.3 million from the EU regional development budget supported the redevelopment of Lough Key Forest and Leisure Park. “Erasmus+ is the EU programme for education, training, youth and sport, providing funding and support for organisations and individuals for projects that encourage exchange, co-operation and learning. The Creative Communities Igniting Change initiative funded by Erasmus+, has provided training and career mentoring for a number of creative entrepreneurs in the Ignite Creative Pod in Ballaghaderreen,” he added. Europe Day kicked off Europe Week and a series of events this week aimed at highlighting the importance of Ireland’s membership in the EU.

Local solicitors take part in Law Society conference

Over fifty solicitors from Roscommon, Leitrim, Longford and Sligo took part int the Essential Solicitor Update 2021 on Tuesday last. Organised by Law Society Finuas Skillnet in association with the Bar Associations of Roscommon, Leitrim, Longford and Sligo, the conference provided an opportunity for local solicitors to stay up to date in areas of law relevant to their daily work. President of the Sligo Solicitors Bar, Michael Monahan, said: “There have been limited opportunities for colleagues to meet over the last twelve months, virtually or otherwise, so this conference was a welcome chance for solicitors to come together and discuss the challenges and changes we have faced in practice”. Mr. Monahan said the conference allowed local solicitors to review key issues such as data protection and bank charges, including the campaign waged by the Law Society last February against the introduction of negative interest rates. For more information on the Law Society Finuas Skillnet Conference, check out the Law Society website www.lawsociety.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

NewsPeople

FRANK

FRANK BRANDON’S

BRANDON

unique take on life ...

Let’s never ban inter-county travel again! Our man Frank on a Monday morning visit to Knock, getting back into the swing of things, and Daisy’s big adventure… It’s Monday morning, and after what seems like an eternity, inter-county travel is back and myself and Carol are heading off to Knock, to fulfil a promise that we made to friends of ours a month or so ago. Our friends, who live up above in ‘The Pale’, are having a few on-going problems and, knowing our fondness for the Marian Shrine, they asked us to go and say a few prayers for them. As the couple live many miles away in the eastern side of the country, they would find it very difficult to make the journey themselves, and to tell you the truth, we were more than delighted to head for the Mayo village. We left early enough despite the slightly inclement weather and when we eventually arrived in Knock, the first thing we noticed was that even though travel was back, there were very few pilgrims walking around. Although the churches - all of which had been closed except the beautiful parish church - were now open for mass, the normal hustle and bustle was sadly missing. Having said a few prayers for anyone we could think

of, including our friends, we decided to see if the shops selling religious goods were open. Sadly, all were still closed, as were the restaurants in the vicinity, except for a couple doing takeaways. It was as if time was standing still. On the main street, two lonely camper vans were parked, a delivery van was slowly driving through the village, and not a dog or a cat was stirring. After one more lap of the mostly deserted carpark, we headed back to the car and headed for home. The strange thing was that even though it was a very unusual experience, Knock always gives a sense of peace and tranquillity. This time was no different and we were just delighted to have been there. When we arrived home, we called our friends in Dublin, told them we had done as we were asked, and felt pretty good about ourselves. Please God, after receiving our second vaccine, we will make it up there (if the car doesn’t break down) to visit our new granddaughter, and at long last life might feel somewhat normal again. Once upon a time, going to Knock - or anywhere else for that matter - was such a simple task. Not anymore unfortunately, so to get back there this week was a wonderful treat. May the lifting of restrictions continue and may we never have to ban inter-county travel again!

Knock Basilica.

Back on course… but I’m no Rory! Back to nicer and more normal things: on Saturday morning, my son Paul and I, after what seemed like an eternity, made our comebacks on the beautiful golf course in lovely Roscommon town. Even though our performances didn’t quite match that of Rory McIlroy, we really enjoyed our return, and hopefully we will have a nice summer where we can play golf, or football, or swim, or even just lie out in the sun. Speaking of Rory, on Sunday night he held us all enthralled when he won the Wells Fargo tournament in America, thereby winning his first tournament since December 2019. Typically, he nearly blew it all with a horrendous drive at the last hole, but despite that, he managed to win by one stroke. The reception he got from the full house only served to remind us of how popular he is with the Yanks. He freely admitted afterwards that he needs the crowds to fuel his adrenalin, so now that they are back who knows what he can achieve – maybe that elusive fifth major may not be that far away at all. As for me, I am definitely the complete opposite to Rory – I play

Roscommon Golf Club.

better without any crowds (well not really better, maybe less badly). If anyone is even within sighting distance of me, I am guaranteed to have a mishit, slice, shank, or even a complete fresh-air swing. But no matter how badly I play, it was just great to be back, and I look forward to many lovely outings over the coming months.

The great thing about golf is you can always hope that you will play better next time, so you never have time to dwell on how bad you really are. Also, the truth is that the likes of me couldn’t care less as to how good or bad we are – it’s all about the fresh air, the freedom, and the sheer enjoyment of having a stroll in a beautiful rural setting – is there anything better?

And finally… I have a heart-warming story to finish with this week. Last Saturday evening, Daisy, a very young dog belonging to a friend of mine, managed to get rid of her harness, and escape from her owner in the general vicinity of Corinthians Rugby Club outside Galway city. From there, she took off across unfamiliar countryside, leaving behind her a distraught and very upset owner. Obviously, being very frightened and not really knowing the area, there were fears for the poor dog’s safety, but to say that everybody rallied round in an effort to find her would be an understatement. Having alerted as many of the residents in the area around Corinthians and its immediate surroundings as she could, my friend was delighted to find that they all put out food for Daisy, looked out for her, and really took it upon themselves to help. All Saturday night she was missing, but two people rang to say they had seen her - one at 6 am on Sunday morning, and another just after 7 on the same morning. The good news was that, thankfully, the dog seemed to have

stayed close by, and later on that evening she was reunited with her delighted owner. Many people – friends, acquaintances, and complete strangers – had spent hours searching fields, gardens, outhouses and sheds looking for the lost pet, and my friend was just so thankful to them all. After her all-nighter, Daisy was shattered and went for a long sleep in the comfort of her own bed. Following a full night out in the open, I’m sure she was very glad to get back to her home comforts, and hopefully she will think twice about making another dash for freedom! As for her owner, she can’t thank everyone enough for their efforts to rescue Daisy, and says it just shows how many good people there are out there – especially around Corinthians and surrounds. Having played rugby for them back in the day (along with Jack the Higher, and my brothers the Rasher and Kieran), I think it must have been the good Karma we left behind that led to Daisy’s safe return! True or not (probably not), many thanks to all who helped bring about a happy ending to what could have been a very sad story.

‘Till next week, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

NewsPeople

TAKE A BREAK The column that smiles through lockdown!

Hair we go: a good week… now let’s click & collect locally < PAUL HEALY

This, most people will surely agree, is a good week in our very traumatic shared journey. Day 4 (Thursday) – and everyone wants to be voted out of the house! Hair care: Personally, I plan to wait until the rush is over, that’s if my patience (and vanity/pride) holds! The anecdotal reports locally suggest a hair-raising frenzy of calls are being made to barbers’ and hairdressers as people seek the new ‘Golden Ticket’…a hair appointment. Congratulations to all Roscommon People readers who have thus far successfully secured appointments in hair salons and indeed with beauticians, etc. It’s all positive, although we are wondering if the traditional

“

chit-chat in such places can possibly be reaching the standard of old! After all, here’s just a handful of ‘Things you can usually say in the hairdressers/barbers which you can’t say just now’…1: Any holiday plans? 2: Were you on holidays yet this year/were you anywhere nice? 3: Off to a wedding, are you? 4: Are you going to the game? 5: Were you in Rockford’s at the weekend? 6: Were you out lately? (You get the picture)… Return of inter-county travel: We feel like celebrating by taking a drive to Donegal or Kerry, or both. Well, maybe we’ll wait until the hotels are open! Still, weekend breaks and longer staycations aside, the freedom to now move between counties is a big boost in a practical

sense, and psychologically too. For many people, it’s a pathway to connecting with loved ones again. Meeting in the garden: The ‘Where are we at with the guidelines now?’ part of our lives can be hard to follow, but here in ‘Take a Break’ land, we gather that a maximum of three households can now meet outdoors in gardens. The good news is this is a development of great potential; the bad news is we need to get that garden sorted! Religious services resume: This is great news…places of worship offer comfort, solace, hope, not to mention some social engagement. I’m sure all local churches are looking splendid and have all required precautions taken. One I’m familiar with over the past week or so is the

church in Rooskey, which I popped into a couple of times while out walking. I was hugely impressed by the superb attention to detail in terms of being ‘Covid-conscious’. It really was most impressive…the cleanliness of the church, the provision of cleaning materials/information, etc. Rooskey Church radiated an air of welcome. It just struck me as a beautifully maintained building, a credit to the local priest and to those in the community who assist him. (Some) businesses reopen: Trust me, bewildered business people are heroes of this most unwelcome of visitors, Callous Covid. According to Leo Varadkar, who knows these things, about 12,000 businesses reopened this week. I

salute all of them. I hope they’re experiencing a good start. It will get better. Let’s make sure to support SMEs. Which reminds me…in the week that also saw the return of ‘Click and collect’…let’s all do as much of our clicking and collecting locally as possible. Don’t worry about the multinationals, they’ll be grand. If ordering online from businesses abroad/those you don’t know, just do it sparingly/if there are no alternatives. Make every effort to click and collect with THE LOCALS. Support our own. Trust in local. And remember, positive and all as this week is, it’s not over. But we are definitely getting there. It’s getting better, much better. Hey, we might even beat the Dubs!

The things people say… Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new – Albert Einstein

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO… Famous birthdays today

(May 13, 2021)

Throwback Thursday! Stevie Wonder (Singing superstar, 71)

Romelu Lukaku (Footballer, 28)

Stephen Colbert (Comedian and TV host, 57)

Debby Ryan (American actress, 28)

Here’s another fascinating photograph from the past…it’s Main Street, Boyle. This photograph is understood to date from around 1900. All feedback to paul@ roscommonpeople.ie very welcome! (Watch out for #ThrowbackTuesday on our social media platforms). Photo credit: The Irish Historical Picture Company

Feedback on MA Farrell shop photo (Castle Street!) There was a big reaction to our recent publishing of this photo (also posted on Facebook). It’s of the MA (Mickcie) Farrell shop in Castle Street, Roscommon (not Church Street, as we erroneously stated). Aidan Farrell kindly confirmed the following: “That was my uncle’s shop, MA Farrell (Mickcie) in Castle Street. Eamonn Curran is in the doorway. Eamonn worked for the ESB. He went on to be president of the GUI (Golfing Union of Ireland)”. Thank you also to David Molloy, Frank McManus, Benny Mulhern and others

who got in touch to gently advise that this shop was in Castle Street, not Church Street. A number of other People readers also commented on Facebook, thank you. Unfortunately, as of now, we don’t have any information as to the identity of the other people in the photograph. As to when the photo is likely to have been taken, the speculation is that it dates from some point from the mid or late 1940s to the early 1960s. We’re guessing 1950s! (Photo from Mickcie Farrell Collection, courtesy of Pat Hughes & Sean Browne).

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Laura Whitmore would benefit from eating a generous slice of humble pie!

Laura Whitmore

I’ve got a question readers. Is it Ok for a run-ofthe-mill TV presenter and occasional pyjama model to post a candid photograph of herself lying in the bath showcasing her baby bump to 1.3 million Instagram followers; then launch an aggressive online attack on a journalist requesting the now newborn’s name? Absolutely not, in my opinion! As far as I’m concerned, it’s hypocritical and it’s two-faced; especially when that mediocre mannequin/TV presenter/so-called author is Laura Whitmore, a woman who has made a career and a lot of money out of being in the public eye. You see the journalist making the request, (from a well-known Irish newspaper), obviously believed that, as celebrity rag, sorry mag, ‘Hello’ carried a story featuring Laura, claiming she’d shared a photo where she ‘breastfed her daughter while her makeup was being done,’ that it was Ok to query the baby’s name! Evidently it wasn’t, with the innocent query, which was seeking a reasonable comment, generating an undeserved online attack from Ms. Whitmore who accused the poor girl of being ‘vile’. I wouldn’t mind readers, but the journalist in question followed protocol, respectfully

putting her request through the holier-than-thou Laura’s agent. She did not contact the presenter directly herself. Forgive me if I’m wrong, but is this the same Laura Whitmore who has built a career out of enjoying the perks of being a so-called celebrity? Is this the same Laura Whitmore who, only recently, was so parched for publicity, she was itching to talk to newspapers in a bid to desperately flog her self-help manifesto, ‘No One Can Change Your Life Except For You?’ And is this the same Laura Whitmore who was happy to share ‘unseen’ photographs from her ‘private’ wedding to some comedian? In addition, is this the same Laura Whitmore who herself travelled the world, hungry to nab interviews with singers, bands and movie stars? Yep, it is! For the record Laura, while I wish you well, your life is of absolutely no interest to me. And, while I’m delighted you’ve given birth to a healthy baby – a precious new life entering the world is always a joyous occasion - I’m not in the slightest bit curious as to what you’ve named your child. What I am curious about however, is why you’d believe it’s Ok to screenshot a fellow journalist’s

I’ve been ‘vaxxed’! Readers may notice that lately, when they log onto their social media accounts, instead of seeing the usual images of home-baked banana bread, or some Marie Kondo wannabe clearing their home of clutter, they’ll see a slew of ‘vaxxies,’ i.e. selfies of people receiving their Covid-19 vaccine! Well, last Friday I received mine, and, as many readers have stopped me and messaged me to ask my personal opinion regarding the vaccine, I thought I’d join the ‘vaxxers’ brigade and post a pic. I did this for two reasons. One, I believe that spreading a positive health message regarding the benefits of being vaccinated may go some way towards building people’s confidence in the roll-out, thus ridding this country of the virus. Two, I was so impressed with the way in which our family doctor’s practice rolledout the entire process; I feel they truly deserved a mention. It all began when he-who-wasalso-vaccinated got a call asking us both to attend the clinic at the Boyle Primary Care Centre last Friday. When we arrived, as someone who is not so much organised, but who was born with the ‘organising gene’ - I actually love making ‘to do’ lists and then ticking things off using fluorescent markers - I was super impressed with Dr. Barry Cosgrove’s system. You see, it’s down to this prac-

tice’s highly efficient and professional, not to mention friendly and welcoming approach, that your Trypanophobia suffering columnist, who once fainted having a blood test, managed to not just come to grips with being vaccinated, but who actually enjoyed the experience. By the way, Trypanophobia is a fear of needles! In addition, I was very worried about the much publicised sideeffects associated with the jab, meaning I not only viewed the entire process with a sense of impending anxiety and doom; I practically had my nails bitten up to my elbows at the thought of it. However, upon arriving at the Boyle Clinic, I found they were not so much on top of things; they’d actually put in place the perfect strategy that, in this hyperorganised patient’s opinion, saw them deliver a safe and effective roll-out programme to the people of Roscommon. Well done to doctors Barry and Claire, to practice nurse Ann, to receptionist Nicky and to the two other lovely ladies who, due to this drama queen being so giddy at the thought of being vaccinated and surviving the procedure, I forgot to get your names. One of you checked me in, and one of you watched over me to make sure I suffered no adverse reactions afterwards. Oh, I forgot, it’s not all about me…hubby’s fine too!

email request, that you’d publicly name them, accuse them of ‘pressuring’ you to talk to them, and that you’d be sanctimonious enough to add insult to injury by labelling them as being ‘vile’. Kind of smacks of an average TV presenter pot - who has been chasing after snippets of gossip their entire professional life - calling a kettle black! I’m sure you’re really a very nice person Laura, and I’m hoping that your knee-jerk reaction to this journalist’s innocent request was due to you being distracted or tired or even preoccupied with something else. For that reason, I’m going to offer you, the woman who confessed ‘I got my big break with a competition that I won by fluke,’ a bit of friendly advice, and it’s this hon: When your good fortune runs dry, when the phone stops ringing, when you’re no longer being splashed across some low-rent red-top, that, in a bid to claw your way back into the public eye, and garner a few column inches, you swallow a slice of humble pie and ring that journalist. I hope she has enough backbone to refuse your calls! By the way, never consider calling me love; I don’t do meaningless drivel; but I do send you my best regards and my sincere congratulations to you and your new family.

Discriminatory heteronormative values have no place in society!

Roscommon People columnist, Miriam Kerins, received her Covid-19 vaccination at Boyle Clinic on Friday last.

I’m delighted Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman, right, has moved to outlaw the horrific and inhumane practice of gay conversion therapy in this country. Thank you Minister. My reason for raising this issue is due to the jaw-dropping discussion which took place on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM last week. Let me explain. Ireland AM invited Mike Davidson, a gentleman who claims being gay is, wait for it…”not the best way to go,” further admitting he’d personally undergone gay conversion therapy to rid himself of ‘unwanted same sex attractions’. I don’t know how my former colleague Alan Hughes - himself a lovely gay man - held his composure throughout the exchange. Had I been the one conducting the interview, I’d have become so infuriated during the process; the producer would have been forced to cut to an ad break! How is it that, in a progressive Ireland, there still appears to be a throng of creepy, pray-away-the-gay cretins lurking among us? Why is it these uneducated, boorish individuals actually believe that a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression is not so much up for debate, but that through ‘therapy’ or ‘prayer’ they can be ‘cured’. It’s about time these constipated prats understood their abhorrent, prejudicial, poisonous and highly discriminatory heteronormative values are not just detrimental, they’re also scorned upon by every credible medical and mental health professional and right thinking person in this country!

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Martin Connolly

Milltown Castleplunkett Co. Roscommon

Telephone: (094) 9651160 (086) 2341041 Precision Chop Silage, Slurry Spreading, etc.

Rural Crime: Watch out for your neighbour! < DAN DOONER

armers are being urged to

look out for each other and be aware of what cover their insurance policies provide following a spate of recent thefts in Counties Roscommon and Galway. Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has this week spoken out following a number of thefts in Co. Galway of farm machinery, trailers, power tools and garden machinery. Deputy Fitzmaurice said it was vital that farmers became aware of what their farm insurance policy covers.

“While it may cover them for public liability etc., there might not be any cover when it comes to the theft of machinery,” he said. “There have been a worrying number of reports of farm machinery, particularly trailers, being stolen of late – with power tools and garden machinery also taken. “For peace of mind, I would encourage farmers to approach their insurance providers and find out exactly what their policy covers,” he said. On the recent increase in thefts, Deputy Fitzmaurice called on farmers and those living in rural areas to remain vigilant of any

Castlerea MART WATCH Good numbers of stock presented for sale again last week with trade and prices holding for the quality lots on offer with plainer quality lots tending to be a little easier. In the weanling bull rings, the quality lots peaked at €3.63 while the heifer weanling ring reported a steady trade with a top price of €1,310 paid for a 370kgs Limousin heifer. Breeding stock numbers continue to rise with €1,920 paid for a 9-year-old cow and her limousin bull calf at foot. The dry cow trade remains very strong with a top price of €1,840 paid for a 660kgs Belgian Blue dry cow or €2.78 a kilo. The heifer ring reported a good clearance with breeding lots peaking at €2.90 a kilo or €1,600 for a 550kgs BBX heifer. Calf numbers remain strong for the time of year with demand holding firm also. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,000 to €1,920. Springers made from €910 to €1,280. There were 120 bullocks on offer at our sale on May 3rd with a steady trade reported with the quality lots peaking at €2.73 a kilo with heavier lots making up to €1,700. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday, May 13th). Please note that bullocks will be sold on Thursday with heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings. Sample prices for heifers: Lm 490kgs €1280, AA 495kgs €1150, Lm 395kgs €960, AA 400kgs €950, Lm 430kgs €1160, BBx 550kgs €1600, Lm 640kgs €1460, BBx 545kgs €1370, Ch 520kgs €1290, AA 580kgs €1380. Dry cows: BBX 890kgs €1960, BB 660kgs €1840, Lm 775kgs €1670, Lm 750kgs €1640, Lm 725kgs €1620, Fr 485kgs €660, Sim 470kgs €800. Calves: AA bull €270, Ch bull €450, Hex €220, BB hfr €390, Lm hfr €240, Fr bull €90, Lm bull €150. Weanling bulls: Ch 275kgs €1000, Ch 280kgs €900, AA 240kgs €780, Ch 260kgs €780, AA 260kgs €770, Ch 445kgs €1220, Lm 470kgs €1190, Ch 395kgs €1170. Weanling heifers: Lm 270kgs €740, Lm 260kgs €690, Lm 370kgs €1310, Lm 335kgs €950, Sa 365kgs €930, Lm 445kgs €1160, Ch 435kgs €1030. Bullocks: Chx 495kgs €1280, Ch 410kgs €1120, Ch 525kgs €1380, Lm 540kgs €1280, Lm 585kgs €1510, Ch 605kgs €1460, AA 755kgs €1700, AA 705kgs €1640.

suspicious activity. “Farmers and people living in rural Ireland need to continue looking out for one another and report any suspicious activity in their area to the Gardaí. “It is very sad that every farm gate or shed door now needs to be locked tight for fear of items being stolen,” he said. “It appears as if the thieves are getting information locally or extensively scouting areas out before making their move, as you would not believe where some of the thefts have been carried out. “I would encourage anyone with information on any robberies to

make contact with the Gardaí. As has been the case for generations, farmers and others living in rural Ireland need to look out for one another. “Putting distinguishable marks on machinery and trailers is recommended, as well as being part of the local community watch groups who often circulate information of suspicious activity in an area. “A regular Garda presence and community engagement are needed to thwart these thieves, who are cherry picking items which people have worked hard to purchase,” he concluded.

The Bank House, St. Patrick’s St., Castlerea Email: ggreene@gats.ie

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 or (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Cllr. Laurence Fallon

CATHAOIRLEACH, ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Supporting far mers in these difficult times.

Sinn Féin launch survey of rural ROSCOMMON communities TYRE CENTRE Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 090 6488232 M: 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie

Shop local, support local, stay local, stay safe!

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Development Claire Kerrane TD and MEP for Midlands Northwest Chris MacManus have launched a rural survey aimed at gathering the views of people living in towns, villages and rural communities. They have invited those living in rural Ireland to take part in the online survey and allow their voices to be heard on the future of their communities. Roscommon TD Claire Kerrane said those in living in rural areas are in the best position to offer guidance on the future of their communities. “As someone who

lives in a rural area and wouldn’t live anywhere else, I know that those who live in rural areas are best placed to tell us what is needed in order to develop and sustain their communities,” she said. “So I am inviting everyone living in towns, villages and across rural Ireland to take part in our survey and make your voice heard. We want to hear from you about the future you want to see for your community, and where investment is needed in your local area to make this a reality. “Rural Ireland has so much potential to thrive, but government inaction

has left many communities feeling abandoned and lacking investment. We want to hear from you about what needs to change, where investment is needed in your area and what you want to see the government do. We will be using these results to inform our policy proposals on a plan to support rural Ireland, which will be published this summer”. Deputy Kerrane said the survey’s findings would be raised in both Dáil Éireann and the European Parliament. The survey can be accessed through https:// www.surveymonkey. com/r/GL8JK9Q.

Roscommon Tyre Centre provides clients all across the greater Roscommon area with a professional tyre repair and tyre replacement service. Along with providing an efficient and competitively priced puncture and tyre service, we also offer clients a:

All brands of Agricultural Tyres catered for Full range of Tractor Batteries Delivery and Collection Service Battery Replacement Battery Diagnostic Testing Replacement parts for Exhaust and Catalytic Converters

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086 3694795 (Colin)

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING C & G Quarries Williamstown, Co. Galway

Tel: 087 2601639

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

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Crean & Co

Accountants & Tax Consultants

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

Dead & Worn -Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment, tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice@oireachtas.ie

FCI calls time on TikTok farming videos! < DAN DOONER

he Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) has called on all contractors to take a zero-tolerance approach to the sharing of TikTok tractor motion videos on social media sites ahead of this year’s silage harvest. The association has warned that using hand-held mobile phone devices while driving is against the law and could result in penalty points for the driver. FCI Chief Executive, Michael Moroney, said contractors needed

concentration of the drivers at all times”. Mr. Moroney said some videos had portrayed professional operations while others showed a lack of driving skills and safety awareness. “FCI recommends a zero tolerance approach where drivers who behave in this way should be sacked from the contractor’s team with immediate effect,” he said. FCI has so far messaged over 1,200 contractors on its database and through its WhatsApp groups and email system in order to encourage them to take strong action in dealing with the issue.

Creggs GAA rearing to go for new season! Creggs GAA Club is rearing to get back into action in the coming weeks so much so that the club has endeavoured to raise forty-five calves as part of their on-going major fundraising drive to develop facilities! The ‘Raise a Calf’ fundraiser comes hot on the heels of the club’s recent monster prize draw, which chairman Sean Brandon described as “magnificent, and a credit to all involved”. Sean added: “The support of the local community and surrounding parishes for our prize draw was outstanding,

Michael

Fitzmaurice TD Mobile:

086 1914565

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

to give clear guidance to their teams before the start of the busy silage period. “At FCI we are aware of videos being posted to various social media outlets which seem to portray contractor operations during silage harvesting as some form of entertainment,” he said. “This behaviour undermines the seriousness and operational risks associated with the skill of using high output modern machinery in farm contracting operations. Silage harvesting is a serious business. It functions around high output machines that demand the full

Pictured are Enda Conneran, Suzanne, Kate and Jack Hanley.

and puts the club in a great position as we begin the full redevelopment of our playing pitch”. Club secretary Eugene Hanley said of the ‘Raise a Calf’ fundraiser: “Creggs is a strong agricultural area, with some of the best farms and farmers in the country. “It was important that we sourced the calves locally, and we spoke to local dairy farmer Brian Hanley about it before Christmas. Obviously Brian and the Hanley family are very close to the GAA club, with Brian’s father Noel, who we sadly lost last year, being one of the greatest clubmen we ever had. “Brian had a batch of his cows calving to Hereford, Angus and Aubrac bulls in early March, and these would fit the bill for what we needed. “To make things even better, Brian offered to raise the calves until weaned off milk (18 months), which would save the host farmers a lot of work and hassle feeding milk replacer. The deal with Brian was agreed, and we are currently in the process of matching the calves to their host farms”. The calves will be placed with host farmers at the end of May, who will then raise them to 18 months when Creggs GAA sells them. Eugene added: “We are working to place the rest of the calves locally, and appeal to anyone interested to get in touch with Creggs GAA. The money raised will go directly to improving the facilities at the GAA club. We plan to bring a bit of fun into it for the host farmers too, with a summer BBQ and Christmas night out just some of the ideas we have in mind”.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING

Fitzmaurice ‘frustrated’ following BNM meeting I

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

(Proudly serving farmers for over 61 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Friday, May 14th at 11 a.m.

Special Bealtaine Sale of Heifers

“They prefer to highlight the supposed insignificance of the quantity of turf cut on Bord na Móna bogs, to downplay the number of households this decision will impact and to reiterate that people with turbary rights will not be unaffected. “But the fact of the matter is that a couple of thousand households cut turf on Bord na Móna bogs each year who do not have a turbary right, many of whom have done so for years. “I am of the opinion that it would be possible for Bord na Móna to sell portions of bog to community groups in order to allow people who traditionally cut turf there to continue, even just for a few short years. “We must remember that many farmers and landowners had to sell bog to Bord na Móna historically as a result of compulsory purchase orders. It is time now for Bord na Móna to return the favour,” Fitzmaurice concluded.

ianna Fáil Senator

----------------------

Friday, May 21st at 11 a.m.

Special Bealtaine Sale of Bullocks Also Heifers & Dry Cows Bookings accepted up until 5 o’clock on Monday, 17th May ----------------------

Tuesday, May 18th at 4 p.m.

Mid May Special Sale of Weanlings Bookings accepted up until 5 o’clock on Thursday, 13th May ----------------------

Lambs, Cast Ewes, In Lamb Ewes & Ewes with Lambs at foot - Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. Gates close at 10 a.m. ----------------------

Saturday, May 22nd at 1 p.m.

Irish Limousin Cattle Society Pedigree Sale 61 Bulls & 8 Heifers Viewing from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Find us on facebook

Market Square, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

 071 963 3000

 090 662 5722

Cllr Marty McDermott,

From

Constituency Offices:

Elphin Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Eugene Murphy has welcomed the return of buyers to mart rings from next Monday (17th) on. “Buyers may attend the sales ring and view stock in pens. However, this must be done by prior appointment with the livestock mart. Buyers who wish to be present at ringside must wear face coverings and adhere to strict social distancing,” Senator Murphy said. “The move to online

trade only last October allowed trade to continue and it proved to be a very effective way of trading cattle and sheep but now we will see a return to buyers in the mart ring in conjunction with online sales which will continue. “I must commend farmers and mart management for their sterling efforts over the past number of months as their co-operation has helped to keep down Covid numbers while also seeing trade

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy

continue and we look forward to an effective mixture of online sales and the return of in-ring buying,” concluded Senator Murphy.

The numbers on offer at our cattle sale on Friday last (May 7th) were slightly back on the previous week, with a steady trade for all classes. Bullocks fetched from an average of €2.30 per kilo up to €2.88 per kilo, dry cows averaged from €1.91 per kilo up to €2.34 per kilo, and heifer numbers were small due to next week’s special sale, with lots making from €2.41 per kilo up to €2.85 per kilo. This Friday (14th) we will host a special sale of heifers as well as a general sale of bullocks and dry cows. There were similar numbers on offer at Tuesday’s weanling sale, with a firm trade and a good demand for both bulls and heifers. Weanling heifers fetched from an average of €2.58 per kilo up to €3.24 per kilo, and weanling bulls made from an average of €2.47 up to €3.19 per kilo. Our next weanling/suckler cow sale takes place next Tuesday (18th) at 4 pm. Bookings will be accepted up until 5 pm today (Thursday 14th). Dry cows: Simm 925kgs €1890, Char X 865kgs €1880, Simm 760kgs €1670, Char X 740kgs €1590, Lim X 755kgs €1580, AAX 715kgs €1560, Lim X 680kgs €1490, Simm X 630kgs €1370, Lim X 655kgs €1260, Char X 645kgs €1250, Lim X 570kgs €1080, Lim 480kgs €940.

Heifers: Lim X 500kgs €1180, Char X 490kgs €1160, Lim X 480kgs €1130, Char X 485kgs €1100, 2 Lim X 340kgs €970, Char X 380kgs €1000, 3 Char X 300kgs €770, Lim X 375kgs €1060. Bullocks: Char x 725kgs €1710, Char X 645kgs €1700, Lim X 680kgs €1690, 2 Char X 685kgs €1660, 2 Lim 557kgs €1470, AAX 675kgs €1530, Char X 575kgs €1640, Lim X 415kgs €1180, Char X 425kgs €1160, AAX 480kgs €1060, Lim X 405kgs €1070, Hex 685kgs €1580, Char X 360kgs €1040, Char X 370kgs €1010, Char X 595kgs €1690. Weanling heifers: Char X 330kgs €1070 - €3.24 per kilo, 2 Char X 385kgs €1060 - €2.75 per kilo, Char X 340kgs €980 €3.14 per kilo, Lim 310kgs €940 - €3.03 per kilo, AAX 300kgs €700 - €2.33 per kilo, Char X 305kgs €810 - €2.65 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €890 - €2.87 per kilo, Lim X 265kgs €820 - €3.09 per kilo Weanling bulls: BBX 490kgs €1220 €2.48 per kilo, BBX 500kgs €1110 - €2.22 per kilo, Char X 420kgs €1090 - €2.59 per kilo, BBX 425kgs €1090 - €2.56 per kilo, Char X 375kgs €1080 - €2.88 per kilo, BAX 360kgs €870 - €2.41 per kilo, AAX 300kgs €630 - €2.10 per kilo, Char X 310kgs €900 - €2.90 per kilo, Char X 275kgs €810 - €2.94 per kilo.

B C

 0

 eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

Leas-Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council Working with your local Fianna Fáil team:

Cllr Michael Connolly, Cllr John Cummins, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Marty McDermott, Cllr Joe Mur

Tel. 087 3466064

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Creggs, Co. Galway Tel: 086 2538169

Roscommon MART WATCH

Also Suckler Cows

No 2: Orla Leyden

Gannon Agri Murphy welcomes Monday’s Contractors return to mart rings F

(On line sale only) 54 pens of Heifers on offer Also Bullocks & Dry Cows

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

ndependent TD Michael Fitzmaurice says he was left frustrated following a meeting with Bord na Móna officials and other public representatives to discuss potential solutions to allow people who traditionally cut turf on BNM bogs to continue doing so this year. The follow-up meeting included public representatives from across the midlands and western region and included personnel from across all the major parties. Speaking following the meeting, the Roscommon-Galway TD said: “During the initial meeting just over two weeks ago to discuss this matter, a number of valid proposals were put forward in an effort to come to a satisfactory resolution for all concerned. “However, it is regrettable that Bord na Móna and its hierarchy are seemingly uninterested in finding a workable solution for the people affected.

An Ire fo

Eugene Murphy

Stay Local - Shop Local Support Local

SLYMAN Plant Hire & Groundworks Conor: 087 7726301 Michael: 087 2490146

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel: 090 662 6898 AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING DURING THESE DIFFICULT WEEKS YOU MUST CALL IN ADVANCE TO ORDER REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment. We ask that all payments be made by card if possible and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. While on the premises we ask all customers to observe the 2m rule at all times.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

FARMING & RURAL LIVING Property Services Providers Licence No. 002249

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

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. VIEWING AT 10 A.M.

For Enquiries Please Contact Mart Office Or Visit Our Website For Details.

Fridges, beds and sofas…Coillte reveals extent of ‘lockdown’ illegal dumping < DAN DOONER

oillte, the State-owned agency

which manages approximately 7% of the country’s land, has this week revealed the extent of illegal dumping in its forests during Covid-19 ‘lockdowns’. Household appliances such as washing machines, fridge/freezers, as well as items like tyres, beds and sofas are amongst the most common items dumped illegally on Coillte lands. “Illegal dumping and fly tipping remain a serious issue for the nation’s forests,” said Mick Power, Coillte’s National Estates Manager.

“The vast majority of visitors are respectful and bring all their litter home, which Coillte and staff on the ground appreciate enormously. “There is a small number of people who make the public roads and entrances to our forests unsightly, some of the rubbish is foul smelling, attracts vermin and is a health and safety hazard for families, their children and their dogs,” he added. Coillte says it has spent almost €2 million to remove illegally dumped waste from its forests over the past five years. Illegal dumping causes serious environmental problems including damage to habitats and biodiversity,

and the pollution of soils, rivers, and even drinking water. Coillte says it takes the issue of illegal dumping extremely seriously and works closely with the Gardaí and the local authorities to ensure offenders are prosecuted. In known blackspot areas, Coillte has increased its surveillance by deploying remote cameras to monitor illegal dumping activity and to help seek prosecutions. The forestry body also encourages the public to report instances of illegal dumping to the relevant local authorities or to contact Coillte directly via its confidential forest security hotline on 1890-800455.

Joe Mulvihill

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

AGRI CONTRACTOR

• Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock of parts available and can be fitted on sprayers All sprayers are required to be tested every 3 years according to Dept. of Agriculture regulations. Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved Reg No: EI000083

Corbane, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Phone: 086 1925031 l Mowing l Bailing l Wrapping l Agitaling l Spreading Slurry

with dribble bar/splash plate

HARRY MURRAY Harry Murray Agri Contractor AGRIForCONTRACTOR all your contracting needs For all your contracting needs

Drawing ofDrawing wrapped Slurry Spreading of wrapped Slurry Spreading Bales (Keltec) (Dribble & Splashplate) plate) Bales (Keltec) (Dribble bar bar & Splash

MART BUILDINGS, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 6625900

Leader Dog Food 12kg

€10 OFF Also provided: Also Provided: Reseeding/cover crops/tillage with a variety of Reseeding/cover crops/tillage with a variety of ways of cultivating, ways of cultivating, Lime supplied & spread, stone Lime supplied & spread, stone raking, spraying,dung raking, spraying, dung spreading, precision pit spreading,precision pit silage,round baling,drawing & stacking. silage, roundTedding baling, drawing & stacking. also provided. Tedding also provided. Mobile: (087) 2323933 Harry

while stocks last

OPEN: Monday - Friday 9-6pm Saturday 9 – 4.30pm

Quality Used Tractors & Equipment

Mobile:: (087) 2323933 Harry (087) 7966039 John (087) 7966039 John Knockcroghery, Co.Roscommon Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

New and Ex Demo MF round balers in stock. Ex Demo 17 knife c/w auto greaser 900 bales €37,500 inc VAT. Beat the price increase, pre order your New MF round baler today and avail of a better price.

New MF 6 Rotor 776 Tedder in stock (same as Lely 770) Limited number of machines in stock. Stabilo Headstock and Hook Tines – be quick and order yours today! New MF Disc mowers starting from €6,950 inc VAT

Johnston Farm Equipment Ltd, Athlone Road, Longford Phone: 043 33 41951 l www.johnston.ie

Waldron Lawnmowers Tel. 086 7866774

HERE’S LOOKING AT MOO! Cattle pictured in sunny Strokestown earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

Harry 17” Lawnmowers c/w €199

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

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

NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY – 16 ST CIARAN’S PARK ROSCOMMON

PSRA Licence No: 003201

NEW TO THE MARKET

F42 KH27

Sean Naughton is delighted to offer “New to the Market” a semi detached residence at St Ciaran’s Park Roscommon. Situated in the heart of Roscommon town, quiet residential area convenient to all local amenities. Much sought after area, rarely a property comes on the Market in this residential area. Residence in pristine conditition throughout. Viewing is highly recommended. Price €185,000 Carriage of Sale for this property is Marie Conroy Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP, Market Square, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42 V382.

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FINAL OFFERS NOW BEING ACCEPTED – FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY – FOUR ROADS, ROSCOMMON

Sale agreed on three-storey commercial building in Athlone Sean Naughten Auctioneers are pleased to announce that they have reached ‘sale agreed’ status on a three-storey commercial building located on Mardyke Street in Athlone. The building comprises

briefly, 750 square feet of ground floor space with apartments and similar space on the other two floors. Contact Sean Naughten Auctioneers on 0906625080, or email seannaughton@eircom.net.

F42 V186

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11.76 Acres of Good Quality Land

Good location convenient to Athlone & Roscommon Excellent opportunity to local farmers to increase their existing holding. Copy of Maps available on request Offers in the region of €84,000 Final offers now being accepted.

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– FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY – Prime Development Lands at

CORNAMADDY ATHLONE (Opposite Dept. of Education)

Sean Naughton is delighted to offer to the Market 15 acres of Development Lands. Comprising Circa 15 Acres convenient to Athlone Town Centre. Lands Zoned for Residential and Social amenities Copy of Maps on request Offers in the region of €800,000 Carriage of Sale for both this property is Hugh J Campbell & Co, Shannon House, Custume Place, Athlone, Co Westmeath. Tel 09064 72015 For Viewing & Information of the above properties contact the Auctioneer Sean Naughton M.I.P.A.V. The Square, Roscommon. Commissioner for Oaths, Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents PSRA License No: 001821 Tel: (090) 6625080 Mob: 087 2479486 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net

Approached via a curved driveway this stunning 4 bedroom 2 storey residence is located in a quite country setting 2 miles from Kilconnell Village, 10 minutes to Ballinasloe 30 minutes to Athlone Town and only 40 minutes to Galway City. Built to a high standard and well maintained by its present owners this residence comprises entrance hallway, Appro sitting room, living room, open plan kitchen/dining room and utility. First floor residence is located in a quite country se - 4 large bedrooms (master ensuite) and family bathroom. 30 minutes to Athlone Town and only 40 Outside a large detached garage, attractive Built to a high standard and well mainta decking and large private garden.

Appro residence is located in a quite country s 30 minutes to Athlone Town and only 4 Built to a high standard and well mainta hallway, sitting room, living room, open bedrooms (master ensuite) and family b Price Region: €299,750 hallway, sitting room, living room,attrac open Outside a large detached garage, Ber rating. C2 bedrooms (master ensuite) and family b --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Appro a large detached garage, attract NEW TO residence THEOutside MARKET is located a quite country se Price Region: Region:in€299,750 30 minutesStreet to Athlone Town and only 40 Lanesborough Price Region: Region: €299,750 Built to a high standard and well mainta Roscommon, Co.hallway, Roscommon CD45 sitting room, F42 living room, open High profile bungalow style residence in bedrooms (master ensuite) and family b need of restoration. Situated in a unique most sought after residential area just 100m meters to theOutside a large detached garage, attract town centre, this property is suitable for a variety of uses and would make an excellent residential home, investment Price property or retail/office unit. It is rare that a property of this calibre comes to the market at this location and Auctioneer invites viewings and offers.

3 Bedroom Traditional 2 Storey Residence on 0.5 acre Site. Tranquil setting with mature gardens offering complete privacy. Conveniently located 20 mins to Athlone and 15 mins from Roscommon. Offers over €120,000 Final offers now being accepted.

– FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY – KILLIAGHAN & GORT CO. ROSCOMMON

Cappagh Bridge, Kilconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway H53 AY94

New to the market:

Landmark Church Street property Oates Auctioneers are offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a landmark Roscommon town property, which has traded successfully for the past 115 years. Situated on Church Street, this hallmark property was completely refurbished and renovated in recent years, and offers huge potential for many different types of uses, including residential. The property consists of a ground floor retail unit, of-

fices and kitchen area, with the first floor consisting of an open plan showroom. Externally, there is a large, private and enclosed garden at the rear. The property enjoys a prominent position on Church Street, a mature retail/residential parade that enjoys a high level of passing footfall. Price region: €190,000. Contact Oates Auctioneers on 090-6627878, email info@oates.ie, or visit oates.ie for more information.

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!

Region: Region: €299,750

High High pp Situate Situat Price Region: € 185,000 meter --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------meter uses and would make an excellent reside would make an excellent resid NEW TOuses THEand ItMARKET is rare that a property of this calibre co It is rare that a property of this calibre c viewings and offers.Boyle, Cartron, Knockvicar, Keadue, viewings and offers. Co. Roscommon F52 YY51 Price Region: € 185,000 High p Stunning 6 bedroom (4 ensuite) residence located on a large elevated c. 1 acre site close to Lough Key Forest Park, Kilronan CastleRegion: Hotel and Keadue Village famed for Price € 185,000 Situat its National Tidy Town awards on numerous occasions. Knock International airport is located 40 minutes away with the scenic meter towns of Carrick on Shannon and Boyle within 6 miles. uses and would make an excellent resid An exceptional property, it boasts a most expensive fit out including Italian marble It is rare that a property of this calibre c flooring, solid handmade oak kitchen with granite worktop and breakfast bar. Solid viewings and offers. oak stairway together with solid oak doors, skirting and architrave throughout with tastefully decorated plaster coving.

Price Region: € 375,000 Ber rating C1

Price Region: € 185,000

Stunnin to Lough famed for its National Tidy T NEW TO THEVillage MARKET International airport is locatedStunni 40 mi Donamon, Roscommon elevated c. 1 acre site6 miles. close to Lough and Boyle within Village for its National TidymoT An famed exceptional property, it boasts Co. Roscommon F42 WY49 Exceptional 2 storey residence built onInternational an elevated hillhandmade side site with spectacular solid oak kitchen with airport is located 40 gra mi views over the surrounding countryside. Situated just off the N60, 15 minutes from together with solid oak doors, skirtin Roscommon Town centre, this is a rareand opportunity to acquire a property of this Boyle within 6 miles. calibre which was built to the plaster coving. highest standard with no expense --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------elevated c. 1 acre site close

An exceptional property, it boasts m Stunni solid handmade oak€ 375,000 kitchen with gra Price Region: elevated c. 1 acre site close to Lough together with solid oak doors, skirtin Village famed for its National Tidy T plaster coving. International airport is located 40 mi Price Region: € 275,000 and Boyle within 6 miles. Ber Rating C3 Price Region: € 375,000 An exceptional property, it boasts mo Church Street, Roscommon town, Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, solidThe handmade oak kitchen with gra CO. ROSCOMMON CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 together TEL: 090 6477500 FAX:oak 090 6477546 with solid doors, skirtin E-mail info@oates.ie E-mail athlone@oates.ie plaster coving. Website: www.oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie spared. Accommodation consists :- entrance hallway, sitting room, living room, large kitchen with arch to dining area. Utility with w.c. off and office/playroom. First floor:- 4 large bedrooms all with built in wardrobes and master ensuite together with family bathroom.

Price Region: € 375,000

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

PropertyPeople PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS

We are now seeking quality family homes in all areas. Reply in confidence to REA Seamus Carthy on 090 6630001.

VIEWINGS NOW AVAILABLE

12 ANTOGHER ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 FN77

17B GLENVIEW, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 CD60 4 bedroom family home presented in good condition and convenient to all amenities in Roscommon Town. The said residence also benefits from a tarmacadam driveway, large and private rear garden with garden shed. Guide Price: €150,000

Quality 4 bedroom detached family home with adjoining former pre school facility. This most select property offers the ideal work from home environment whilst also offering further opportunities given the said accommodation mix. Enquiries are now invited. Enquiries now invited.

NEW TO THE MARKET SHANKILL, ELPHIN, CO. ROSCOMMON c.12.5 acre of prime land, attractively set adjacent to Elphin Town along the R369 from Tulsk. The said lands offer quality agricultural land on an elevated and mature setting benefiting from 2 No. Stone outbuildings situated thereon offering attractive setting for a dwelling subject to planning. Substantial road frontage on the outer suburbs of Elphin Town. Enquiries invited.

VIEWINGS NOW AVAILABLE

NEW TO THE MARKET

10 PARKVIEW, LISNAMULT, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 AV21

CLOONARRAGH, DERRANE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Quality 3 Bed Semi-Detached residence with detached fuel store situated within walking distance to all amenities in Roscommon town. The subject property is presented in good condition and benefits from a garden to the front and rear. Guide Price: €125,000

c.16 acres of prime agricultural land on a mature setting offering potential. Enquiries now invited.

VIEWINGS NOW AVAILABLE 37 GLENVIEW, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, F42 K773

4 bedroom family home presented in good condition. Benefiting from a tarmacadam driveway, large and private rear garden with garden shed all set in a convenient and sought after location in Roscommon Town. Guide Price: €150,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

PSRA Licence No. 002782

REA Seamus Carthy selling Bridge House Apartments today by online auction

Traditional bungalow on 2.5 acres with stone outbuildings On the market with REA Seamus Carthy is this traditional, three-bedroomed, detached bungalow sitting on approximately 2.5 acres of land. Situated in Ballyglass, Ballinagare, the property also includes two traditional stone outbuildings and a two-bay hay shed with enclosed lean-to. The house is presented in excellent condition, and comprises of a front porch,

living room, sitting room, kitchen, three bedrooms and a family bath/shower room. The quality residence is attractively set amongst fine outbuildings, all sitting on 2.5 acres of land. Enquiries and viewings are now invited. For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy today 090-6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie.

Today (Thursday, May 13th), REA Seamus Carthy are selling six apartments situated within the sought-after Árd Clár Residential Scheme in the heart of Claremorris Town. The apartments comprise of two one-bedroomed apartments and four twobedroomed apartments, available in one lot. Árd Clár is a residential development comprising of a mix of detached properties. The subject property is the only apartment development in the estate, making this an excellent investment opportunity. REA Seamus Carthy are market leaders in online auctions, and even if you are not interested in these quality apartments, Seamus is inviting anybody who is considering either selling or buying to follow today’s auction of these six apartments in Claremorris. “Why not follow along with the auction and get the opportunity to see how it works,” commented Seamus. “Simply log on be-

tween 12.30 pm and 1 pm via reaseamuscarthy.bidnow.ie/lot/details/41324 to follow the auction”.

For more information, or for anybody who is considering selling, please do not hesitate to contact REA

Seamus Carthy on 09066 30001, or email info@ reacarthy.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

PropertyPeople

Final offers for prime Strokestown lands This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is inviting final offers after €25,000 for a prime parcel of lands containing approximately 5.3 acres, located at Cloonfree, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. John describes the lands as: “Prime roadside lands, located in a renowned farming district close to Strokestown”. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €25,000 to sell. Legal: Messers Joan Harrington and Co, Strokestown, 071-9634608. For further details or to arrange a map, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

New to the market Earley’s close sale of prime at Taughmaconnell On the market with Connaughton Auctioneers is this attractive, threebedroomed bungalow residence, standing on 0.5 acres with a detached garage to the rear, situated in the townland of Killeglan, Taughmaconnell. The property, which has just arrived on the market, is in excellent condition. The residence boasts spacious living accommodation throughout and is located convenient to the towns of Athlone and Ballinasloe. Accommodation includes a large reception hallway with tiled flooring, with airing cupboard off and Stira folding stairs to attic area with ample stor-

age. The sitting room is located to the right, featuring wooden flooring, a marble fireplace and a window overlooking front gardens. The kitchen/dining room is situated at the rear of the property, with fully fitted kitchen units, tiled flooring, solid fuel Waterford stove with back boiler and beautiful brick surround. There are French doors to the side of the house, and the utility room is off, complete with tiled flooring, splashback, fitted units, sink and counter top. There are three bedrooms in total, all with wooden flooring, and the master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom. The main bath-

room is fully tiled, and is complete with a Jacuzzi bath, toilet, wash hand basin and shower with unit. There are a host of extra features, including the large detached garage (18’ x 15’) to the side. Additionally, the property is wired for an alarm, and the driveway is stoned and kerbed and extends to the rear, with feature traditional stonewall to the front. This property is a must for viewing. Contact the office on 090-6663700, email info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie, or contact Deirdre on 086-1713417 for further details and to organise a viewing.

Corraun Village residence This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a primelylocated residence at 3 Corraun Village, Racecourse Road, Roscommon town

for a very satisfactory price. John described the property as “An exceptional twostorey, detached residence, located in the exclusive Corraun Village development. This quality property offers

spacious living accommodation throughout, and has been carefully designed and tastefully finished by its present owners. The property is located within a short walk from Roscommon town

centre and all amenities, and offers an unrivalled location, quality finish and comfortable living”. John added: “We have experienced a very busy selling period, with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed under bidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. For further details, or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto propertypartners.ie.

Five-bedroomed cottage in Kilbegnet, Creggs Substantial Strokestown

property available at Earley’s

On the market with Connaughton Auctioneers is this five-bedroomed cottage with outbuildings to the front on approximately 0.61 acres of land. Located on the Roscommon/Galway border, this property is an ideal project for someone who wishes to renovate and complete a residence with character to their own specifications. The property is situated in a scenic, rural area, with unrivalled views of the surrounding countryside, on a quiet country road outside the village of Creggs. Creggs

village is a central location, with the towns of Roscommon, Castlerea, and Glenamaddy within 15 to 20 minutes’ drive. Accommodation includes the reception hallway, living room, kitchen/dining room, back hallway, five bedrooms and the bathroom. This property represents huge potential for the discerning buying. Contact Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700, email info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie, or contact Deirdre on 086-1713417 for further details and to organise viewing.

This week, John Earley of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is offering to the market a substantial eight-bedroomed (all ensuite), dormer-style residence of approximately 3,100 square feet, located at ‘Cairn House’, Curry, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as: “A stunning and substantial eight-bedroomed (all en-suite), detached, dormer-style residence, finished to the highest of standard throughout. “This imposing property stands on a beautifully mature and elevated site area of approximately 2.37 acres with unobstructed views of the rolling green countryside to the front. “Offering approximately 3,100 square feet of spacious living accommodation throughout, this

fine property is ideally positioned to operate as a guesthouse, or indeed a substantial family residence”. The auctioneers highly

recommend immediate viewings and all offers are invited for immediate sale. For further details, or to arrange a viewing, contact John Earley (FIPAV) of

Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto propertypartners.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY PARTNERS

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION ON THURSDAY 27TH MAY 2021 FROM 10 am (unless previously sold). To register, pay deposits, bid and download legal packs in advance, log onto www.propertypartnersonlineauctions.ie

A MOST ATTRACTIVE 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 1,850 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

BUMLIN, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 N990

A QUALITY 2 B/R SEMI-DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF APPROX. 846 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

(standing on approx. 2.37 acres of lands extending onto the famous Scramogue River and located directly opposite Strokestown Golf Club).

2 OAKWOOD RETIREMENT VILLAGE, HAWTHORNE DRIVE, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 F683

Reserve: €199,000

Reserve: €100,000

UNIT 2 STONECOURT, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 KV80 Reserve: €48,000

Auction 10:30am – 11:30am. Auction 10am – 11am. An impressive 4 B/R bungalow residence. Standing on a substantial site area of approx. 2.37 acres. Running onto the famous Scramogue river. Located directly opposite Strokestown Golf Club only a few minutes from the centre of Strokestown. BER: C1. Legal: Frank Aron Murphy Solicitor, Buncrana, Co. Donegal. 086 374 2847 A MOST ATTRACTIVE 2 B/R FORMER SCHOOL PROPERTY FORMERLY KNOWN AS “CARNISKA NATIONAL SCHOOL” LOCATED AT

CARNISKA, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 FK07

Auction 10:15 am – 11:15am. Situated in the exclusive Oakwood Retirement Village. Beside Roscommon town, Roscommon University Hospital and all local amenities. Presented for sale in turn key condition throughout. Spacious living accommodation. Peaceful setting with ample parking facilities. BER: E2. Legal: Sean Mahon, Messers Mahon Sweeney & Co, Roscommon. 090 66 26012. FORMER RESIDENTIAL LICENSED PREMISES LOCATED AT

ELPHIN STREET, STROKSTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON F42 V329 Reserve: €75,000

Reserve: €75,000

A primely located commercial unit of approx 700 sq.ft. (Former East West travel agents) Located in the busy Stonecourt development on the Town Square. Benefiting from ample free car parking facilities at the rear and on the Square. The said unit would suit various commercial pursuits due size and location. BER: G. Legal: Marie Conroy, Messers Mahon Sweeney & Co, Roscommon. 090 66 26012. A 3 ROOMED RESIDENCE LOCATED AT

WILLSGROVE, BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON. Reserve: €15,000.

Auction 10:45 am – 11:45am. Standing on a beautifully mature site area of approx. 1 acre. The said property has been carefully redesigned as a family residence. Offering spacious living accommodation. Maintaining many of its original charms and schoolhouse features throughout. Planning permission has been granted for the installation of a new septic tank system under planning reference PD/21/51. BER: Exempt. Legal: Thoma Queally, Messers Michael F Butler & Co, Longford. 043 33 41118.

Auction 11:30 am – 12:30pm. Former licensed premises. Former bar cum lounge area with ladies and gents toiletes, kitchen and coldroom servicing. 4 bedrooms in all on the 1st floor with sitting room and bathroom. Garden area and storage shed set to the rear. BER: G. Legal: Hanahoe & Hanahoe Solicitors, Naas, Co. Kildare. 045 897784.

Auction 11:45am – 12:45pm. Standing on a site area of approx 0.660 of an acre. Water and Electricity services at roadside A much sought after location and approx 2 km to Ballintubber Village on the Castleplunkett Road. Offering a redevelopment opportunity in a select location close to the village and the local GAA grounds (St Croans). BER: Exempt.

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Fax: (090) 6625405 PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

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085 1503353 086 8538404

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Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

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087 2798704

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Fergal 086 1016899 CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

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

Co Galway H53 D7W8

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

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic Movement Matters 20 years experience treating babies to adults. Everyday aches & pains to sports injuries.

CHIMNEY SWEEP

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

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

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

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?

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

Paul McStay

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

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

GARDENING

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

Please call Glynis on

DRIVING LESSONS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

FENCING/GATES

l l

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

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

LIFE COACH

Mindset Life Coach Online

l Personal

Development/Life Coaching l Membership Club l Workshops l Retreats CONTACT

Emer Watchorn

BSc. Arch Tech, HDip Executive & Life Coaching

087 7718842 website:

emerwatchorn lifecoach.com

• 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.parklawntreeservices.

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 GATELY GARDENING

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

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI)

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds GARDENING

ALL ABOUT THE GARDEN

• Roscommon Town • Grass and Hedge Cutting • Rotavating • Strimming

CONTACT KEVIN:

090 6630879 or Mobile

087 2835742

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

< WANTED LAND: 15 – 20 acres of land wanted. To rent or lease for 3 – 5 years. For grazing for horses/ponies. Preferably with older barns/cottage or buildings. Near Sliabh Bawn Mountain: Doughill, Curraghroe, Ballagh, Kilteevan or Kilrooskey areas. Contact: Melissa 087 2512877

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Shane and Una McGuinness, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for construction of a dwelling house, domestic garage, on site wastewater treatment system, access onto the public road and associated site development works at Clooncoose Td, Cootehall, Co. Roscommon.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the planning authority. Signed: Michael Hennessy Advanced Planning & Design Services Dorrary, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon Tel: 086 1701549

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon NOTICE OF FURTHER INFORMATION Name of applicant: Laragan Dairies Ltd. Location: Lisduff Td. & Cregga Td., Elphin, Co. Roscommon. Reference number of the application: PD/20/493 The development applied for consisted of: i. Milking parlour including handling yard, feed storage silo and milk storage tank. ii. Agricultural shed consisting of cubicle area and concrete aprons. iii. Silage slab with concrete apron iv. Slurry lagoon and underground slatted slurry tank v. Connections to services and all other associated site works.

Significant Further Information in relation to this application have 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. A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and 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: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090) 6634421 Fax: (090) 6634423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Authority Notice Curlew Energy Limited intends to apply for a five year planning permission for development in the townlands of Leam, Ballybaun, Harepark, Ardoorooran, Carrownageeragh, Grange Beg, Knockadoobrusna, Ballytrasna, Cashelfinoge and Greatmeadow, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of 2 No. wind turbines (maximum turbine tip height 160m) with associated foundations and crane hardstand areas and all associated development including 1 No. substation control building, 1 No. Permanent Meteorological Mast (80m height) and associated foundation, hardstand area and ancillary main crane hardstand area, 1,304m of new internal site service roads, underground electric cabling systems between turbines within the wind farm site, 3.75km of overground electric cabling system and 1.53km of underground electric cabling system between the wind farm site and connection point at existing 38 kV ESBN substation in Boyle, 1 No. new site access/ entrance off the L-1248 local road at the western boundary to facilitate construction and access, 1 No. temporary construction site compound (750m2), 4 No. peat /spoil deposition areas for storage of excess excavated peat materials, associated surface water management system, tree felling to facilitate site development, temporary works on sections of the public road network along the turbine delivery route (including hedge or tree cutting, relocation of powerlines/poles, lampposts, signage and local road widening) and all associated site works. A Natura Impact Statement and Environmental Impact Assessment Report has been prepared in respect of the application.

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying on behalf of Roscommon Gaels G.A.A. Club for planning permission for development comprising erection of new spectator stand, with provision for storage area and club room at club grounds, Lisnamult, Roscommon.

PLANNINGS

eagle blueprint A Home for LIfe

Planning a new house or extension? Free consultation on your design needs.

Signed: Theresa Hession, Affordable plans/drawings with 40 years experience. Chairperson. The planning application may be www.eagleblueprint.com 087 2605 695 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 ROSCOMMON COUNTY ROSCOMMON COUNTY hours. A submission or observation in COUNCIL COUNCIL relation to the application may be made Warren or Drum, Boyle, I, Brian Flanagan, intend in writing to the planning authority on Co. Roscommon. Eagle Blueprint Business Cards.indd 1 12/05/2021 to apply for planning payment of the prescribed fee of €20 We, Mulryan Construction permission for development within the period of five weeks beginning Ltd., intend to apply to on the date of receipt by the authority of at Knockalaghta, the application, and such submission Roscommon County Council Ballintubber, Co. or observation will be considered by the for retention permission for Roscommon, F45 F586. planning authority in making a decision porch to front of the existing The development will on the application. The planning Abbey Haven Care Centre consist of: authority may grant permission subject and Nursing Home together 1) Demolition of 10 sq.m of to or without conditions or may refuse to with all ancillary site works non-original rear porch; grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Take notice that we, Ballaghaderreen GAA Club, intend to apply for planning permission for development at Knockanaconny Townland, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the decommissioning and removal of existing floodlights and the installation of new floodlights as follows: • Main Pitch – Installation and commissioning of LED floodlighting, to provide maximum 500LUX, erected on 6 no. 20m maximum height columns. • Training Pitch - Installation and commissioning of LED floodlighting, to provide maximum 350LUX, erected on 6 no. 20m maximum height columns. The development will also include all ancillary site works, upgrades and connection to necessary services.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20. within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such 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: Ballaghaderreen GAA Club

and services at the above address.

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 at Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority, on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Mulryan Construction Ltd.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of The Board of Management of Feevagh National School to construct an extension to the existing school consisting of: 1. Therapy room and associated WC facilities. 2. Alterations to school entrance to include automatic entrance door and creation of canopy, 3. Alterations to site entrance and formation of wheelchair accessible/ assisted car parking spaces & associated site works at Feevagh Beg, Dysart, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Registered Surveyors and Building Design Consultants. Tel: (090) 6623417 Mob: 086 - 8546035 The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such 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.

2) Demolition of 29 sq.m turf shed; 3) Construction of 87 sq.m of domestic extension to the rear and side of the existing dwelling along with associated internal and external alterations and renovation works to the existing dwelling; and all associated site works and services relating to the above.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Stonepark, Keadue, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. I, Paul Regan intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for development consisting of the construction of a new dwelling house, entrance and wastewater treatment system together with all ancillary site works and services at the above address.

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

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

086 3482387 11:29

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for Planning Permission on behalf of Mark Dolan to Construct Slatted Sheep Shed and Permission to Retain 1) Existing Slatted Shed and 2) Existing Sheep Shed together with all associated site works at Annaghmore, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon Tel: 0862328484

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for Planning Permission on behalf of Pio Tully to construct Slatted Shed together with all associated site works at Ballinaboy T.d. Kilteavin , Co. Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds

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

USEFUL SERVICES

CARS

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

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

Tel: 087 0944027

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

USEFUL SERVICES

Phone Paul 086 2553153 or 090 666 3053 or Email p0862553153@ gmail.com.

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 < TURF PLOTS: Plots of turf to let, Castlerea, Ballinagare area. Contact Chris 086 4100508

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

086 2437376

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas) < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 < TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011 < TURF PLOTS: In Donamon area, cut three weeks, ready to foot. Tel: 086 1654790

OPMS

Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

Handyman and property maintenance services

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Good quality top soil and clean fill, Glenamaddy area. Tel: 086 1683470 < FURNITURE FOR SALE: 4 display cabinets - suitable for jewellery, glass, ornaments etc. Reclining arm chair, table suitable for bed or elderly use. Tel: 089 9884131

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715 < LIME: Lime delivered and spread. Conor Beirne, Elphin. T: 086 8981210

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: WCP - MO - 09 - 0267 - 01

Inter-county travel! Tom and Roisin Tobin, from Virginia, Co. Cavan enjoyed a Shannonside picnic in Ballyleague recently following the lifting of restrictions. Pic: Mick McCormack

y t n u o C e h t d n u o r A

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS:

NO JOB TO SMALL

Call 0874357682 for a quote today! < HANDYMAN SERVICES: Do you need odd jobs doing around your home/yard? Have no time to do them yourself? Don’t want to contact a specialised tradesman to carry out these tasks? l Gardening l Stonework l Clean up/Tidying l Concrete repairs l Fence repairs l Pointing/Repointing l Cutting/Chopping firewood. Honest Service Provided at a Reasonable Rate. Phone: 087 2176205

USEFUL SERVICES

P’Nuts Powerwashing Service • Driveways • Cobblestones • Slatted Sheds • Footpaths • Patios • Yards NOW DOING Drain Cleaning and Unblocking

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Call Padraig

086 602 7509

WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie

Luke Duffy pictured enjoying the good weather with mum Jennifer in Ballyleague recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Mrittika and Dinesh Narain, Ballyleague, pictured enjoying the fine weather recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

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

087 9657933

or 090 6626752 Aimee and Cathal Brady, Elphin, pictured enjoying the good weather recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

PAINTER & DECORATOR

For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079

Raymond and Agnes Dunne, Elphin, pictured enjoying the good weather recently. Pic: Mick McCormack

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES WARD John James & Mary

FUREY Sean

Cornaveagh, Creggs, Roscommon (7th and 4th Anniversaries) In loving memory of John James who died on 12th February 2014 and his wife Mary who died on 2nd June 2017

Vesnoy, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. (1st Anniversary)

RIDLEY (Nee Egan) Winnifred

Srah, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 17th May 2020.

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Scrine, Athleague, www.brianmuraystone.com Co. Roscommon E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com Time may pass and fade away, but silent thoughts and memories stay. Our wish is just a simple prayer, God bless and keep you both in his care.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by their son Seamus, daughter Annette, son-in-law Seamus, grandchildren Aidan, Amanda and Laura and great-grandson Jarlath. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 16th May 2021 at 11.30am.

CONNOR Carmel (5th Anniversary occurs on 15th May) Tuam, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon

RYAN JIM Creevy, Roscommon (17th Anniversary) In loving memory of Jim who died on 14th May 2004

Our special memories of you will always bring a smile. If we could only have you back a while, have our mug of tea laugh at yarns and listen to new engines, I talk to you everyday and ask why you went away. Until we meet again, you will always be in our hearts.

Love your sister Mary and Seamus. --------Freshly cut grass will never smell the same, our love for engine’s it will always remain, you were my friend, my uncle, my teacher, you will always remain in my head and my heart until we meet again Sean.

Love John Paul. Partings come and hearts are broken, loved ones go with words unspoken. Deep in my heart there’s a memory kept, for a wife and mother I’ll never forget

Loved and missed, Jerry

There is a place in our hearts which is yours alone, a place in our lives no one else can ever own, we hold back tears when we speak your name, but the ache in our hearts remains the same.

Always remembered Mam, love Sacha, Ann-Marie, Vanessa, Caryl, Steve, Gerard and their extended families. x

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!

You always had a smile to share, a laugh, a joke and time to care. A wonderful nature, warm and true, those are the memories we have of you.

Forever in our thoughts and prayers, sadly missed by your neighbours and friends.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

O’CONNOR Gerry 3 Aran Court, Galway Road, Roscommon Happy Birthday Gerry 21st May

--------Sean, days will pass and turn into years. Your smile, your wit your laugh will always remain in my heart.

Love Anne Marie, Simon and Callum. --------I have so many memories of our time together, I miss your laughter so much, you always made a dark day brighter.

Everyday in my thoughts, love you dearly Sharon, Lucas and boys.

LUNT Gerry (21st Anniversary)

We, the family of the late Winnifred Ridley, wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us on the sad loss of a wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. To all the medical professionals involved in Mam’s care over the years. The Wellstone Clinic, Galway, Dr. John Keenan, Charlie O’Brien, Rosmed Pharmacy and most especially Dr. Claire Quinn who’s care of Mam in her last days went beyond anything we could have hoped for and meant and so much to us as a family. To Noel and Lorraine from Medical Ambulance Service who ensured Mam got home to us safely at the end. Thank you all. A special word of thanks to the taxi drivers that ensured Mam got to her dialysis each week especially Pat Leonard and Siobhan and Padraig Behon. They became great friends to Mam and the support and encouragement they showed her meant the world to us. To Pat and Gillian Smyth, Funeral Directors, we thank you for your professionalism, respect and sensitivity in the handling of Mam’s funeral. You were a pillar of strength to us during a very difficult time. To Fr. Ray Milton, for anointing Mam in her final days and for celebrating her Funeral Mass, making it so meaningful and personal. To the staff in Lakeside Crematorium for their professionalism and care. To Andrew and Eimear Reynolds for the beautiful singing and music in the church, we thank you. A special word of thanks for all our neighbours and friends who lined the route from our home to the church, and stood outside the church in line with covid restrictions. Your presence was very much appreciated. To all who sent mass cards, sympathy cards, wrote letters, made phone calls, left messages on RIP.ie and food and refreshments to our door, we thank you. To the staff in the Brothers of Charity, Ballintubber, for caring for Julia during this very difficult time. To all who made donations to the Irish Kidney Association, Thank You. As it would not be possible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our gratitude and appreciation to all. Mam’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday 17th May at 7pm. Winnifred is sadly missed by her heartbroken family and friends. Gone but never forgotten.

BARRY David and Breda

REGAN Teresa (nee Gavin) Killerr, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear wife and mother who died on 17th May 2016 R.I.P.

God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be so He put his arms around you and whispered “come to me”. With tearful eyes we watched you and saw you pass away although we loved you dearly we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating hard working hands to rest God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.

Fondly remembered and missed dearly by Teresa’s loving husband Tom, her daughters Pamela, Colette, Evelyn, Ita-Marie and her sons Thomas and John-Paul.

With love to a very special Nanny Teresa ... If we could have one lifetime wish a dream that would come true We’d pray to God with all our hearts for yesterday and YOU. In life we loved you dearly in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place no one else can fill. You left behind our broken hearts and happy memories too ... but we never wanted memories Nanny we only wanted YOU.

Loved, cherished and remembered by your eighteen grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber on Saturday, 15th of May at 8 pm.

Abbeytown, Roscommon

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still missed, still loved and always dear.

Always loved and remembered, love Mum, Dad, sister, brothers and extended family.

In loving memory of a dear husband and father, who died on May 14th, 2000. b Always loved and sadly remembered by his loving wife Josie and family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 15th May at 11am.

(33rd Anniversary)

(25th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear Mum and Dad, Breda and David, David who died on the 10th April 1988 and Breda who died on 19th May 1996 Lord grant them eternal rest.

Loved and sadly missed by your family.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES O’ROURKE Brian Ballindrimley , Castlerea (40th Anniversary) Who passed away on 15th May 1981

RUSHE Maureen (née Mullen) Clooneen, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on 15th May 2019. (2nd Anniversary)

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Gone yet not forgotten, although we are apart your spirit lives within us forever in our hearts. You never said you were leaving, you never said goodbye, you were gone before we knew it and God only knows why. Separated by death but together through love.

Always remembered by his wife Lily, daughter Gráinne, sons Brian Óg, Dan and their families. His sister Maureen (Sr. Elizabeth) and all the O’Rourke family.

MANNION Joe Carnalasson, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (14th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Joe, who died on 18th May, 2007 You always had a smile to share, time to give and time to care. A loving nature, a heart of gold, those are the memories we will always hold.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving wife Ann and family. Masses offered.

If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, we would walk right up to heaven and bring you back again. No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why. Our hearts still ache in sadness, and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you, no one will never know. But now we know you want us to mourn for you no more. To remember all the happy times, life still has much more left in store. Since you’ll never be forgotten, we pledge to you today a hallowed place within our hearts, is where you’ll always stay.

Sadly missed and always loved and remembered by her husband Ferdie, son Gérard, daughters Sandra and Deirdre. Sons-inlaw Jason and Chris and extended family and friends. Maureen’s Anniversary Mass will be offered.

DONLON Pat Portrun, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 18th May, 2018. RIP (3rd Anniversary)

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. B.C.

CORCORAN Gerry

Donamon, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on the 13th of May 2020.

On the First Anniversary of Gerry’s death, his wife Anne and family would like to thank everyone who supported them at that sad and difficult time. We would like to thank those who sent mass/sympathy cards, and the moving tributes and messages of sympathy on RIP.ie and Facebook. Thank you also to those who brought gifts of food and flowers to the house. Thanks to all the friends and neighbours who stood along the route from Smyth’s Funeral Home to Oran Cemetery for a moving Guard of Honour as Gerry made his final journey. With thanks to the involvement of Oran G.A.A. and Roscommon County Council. Thanks to Fr. Irek Kuzmicki for celebrating Gerry’s Funeral Mass. Thanks to Fr. Jerry Lanigan SVD who called to Gerry in his final hours. Thanks to Dr. Blazkova and all the nurses in the Oncology Department who looked after Gerry throughout his treatment. Also the Palliative Care Nurses, especially Ursula. To the gravediggers who prepared Gerry’s final resting place. Sincere thanks to Pat Smyth of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for his professionalism, care and respect in the handling of Gerry’s funeral arrangements. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually. We hope that this acknowledgement conveys our sincere thanks and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of Mass will be offered for your intentions. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all his family. Mass offered.

KENNY Brian

GILLOOLY Paul

Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Who died on 9th May, 2019 (2nd Anniversary)

Culleen, Kilteevan, Roscommon Called to his eternal Home on 9th May, 2011 (10th Anniversary)

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

Lovingly remembered by his brothers Joe and Sean, sisters Sandra and Maudie.

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

“Love” always Mom, Dad and family.

THANKSGIVINGS

Sadly missed and forever remembered by family and friends.

MONAGHAN Carmel and Paddy

The Walk, Roscommon In loving memory of Mary who passed away peacefully on 14th May 2017 (4th Anniversary)

Cargins, Tulsk (8th and 25th Anniversaries)

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts, is always kept for you. Your lives were full of kindly deeds, a helping hand for others needs, sincere and true in heart and mind, beautiful memories left behind. As we see you in the rainbow, in the moon and stars of night, we feel you close beside us, you are our shining light. And as the blossoms bloom in May, that lonely day God took you home. Our pain and loss won’t go away, til we can see your smile once more.

Lovingly remembered by all their family. Anniversary Mass will be held in the Church St. Eithne & Fidelma Tulsk, on Sunday, 16th May at 11.30am.

Loved dearly and missed every day by Mam (Maura) John and Emma, Peter, David and Paul. Anniversary Mass for Mary will be held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Friday, 14th May at 11am. Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

CARBERRY Johnny (Sean)

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Cloontuskert, Lanesboro. (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Johnny (Sean) who passed away on May 12th 2020 Email or call for Sample Pack

Anniversary Mass will be held in private.

No matter how life changes or what we do a special place within our heart’s is always kept for you.

COMISKEY Mary

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 and thanksgiving to the Sacred Heart for favours received. L.M.

We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain. To walk with us throughout our lives. So Rest In Peace dear loved one and thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and dearly missed by his wife Imelda, children, grandchildren, brother, sisters, nieces, nephews and extended family. Anniversay Mass for Johnny will be held in Ballyleague Church on Saturday, 15th May 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: anthonymurrayandsons@gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

9673336 2678350

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BLINDS

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

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

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

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Telephone: 090 66 33026

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

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WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

INSURANCE CLAIMS

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: 090 66 30521 Mobile: 086 8115928

INSULATION

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Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE TEL: (090) 96 88606

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PUBLIC NOTICE S.I. No. 174 of 2009

Chris’s Window Service

Gerry Martin:

Send your Classified

FARMING

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C astlerea ELV Recycling Ltd ., Cloonkeen, Castlerea Kevin & Martina Keenan Tel: 094 96 21250 Mob: 086 2522231

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

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Call John 087 610 8499 DRIVING LESSONS

ROSCOMMON Driving School Phone 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Luke Mee as the nominee for Mees Knockcroghery Limited TAKE NOTICE that the above named applicant Luke Mee as nominee of Mees Knockcroghery Ltd of Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, Galway intends to apply to the Court at Roscommon District Court on the 1st day of June 2021 at 10.30 am. for a certificate to hold a WINE RETAILER’S OFF LICENCE in respect of the premises situate at Knockcroghery, Roscommon in court area and district aforesaid. Dated this 6th May 2021 Signed Liddy Neilan Solicitor for Applicant Liddy Neilan Solicitors Abbey Street Roscommon To: The Superintendent of the Garda Síochána, Roscommon Garda Station, Roscommon To: The District Court Clerk The Courts Service, Golf Links Road, Roscommon

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds

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

APPOINTMENTS

J KEANE & SONS (ROS) LTD are recruiting for the following roles: J. Keane & Sons are the main Volkswagen retailer for County Roscommon. A family run business on the same site since 1974. We strive constantly to deliver the best possible experience to all of our valued customers for both sales and service.

SALES EXECUTIVE

SERVICE ADVISOR

Due to continued growth, we currently have an opening for an energetic and enthusiastic candidate to join our sales team.

We are currently recruiting for a Service Advisor to join our Aftersales Team. The successful candidate will be required to work within the Service Team to deliver the highest level of satisfaction to our customers.

Key responsibilities include: • Deliver exceptional customer service. • Maintain excellent product knowledge. • Sales of new, used and electric vehicles. • Sale of financial service products. • General sales administration. • Deliver results in a target driven environment. • Work closely as part of a team.

Key responsibilities include: • To manage all service enquiries • Agree with the customer a date and time for the service/repair to be carried out • Agree with the customer the work to be carried out and after a vehicle health check - and any extra work to be carried out. • Carry out a handover with the customer after the service/repair explaining exactly what work has been carried out on their vehicle.

Requirements: • Excellent communication skills. • Excellent attention to detail. • Well presented, professional appearance and approach. • Full clean driver’s license is essential. • Previous sales and/or motor trade experience would be a distinct advantage.

Requirements: • Ability to work in a team and on own initative. • Experience working in customer service. • Good IT and administration skills. • Be professional in appearance and manner. • Full drivers licence.

If you believe you are the right candidate for this job, please forward your CV and cover letter to john.keane@vwjk.ie Closing date for applications is 14th May 2021

SUNFLOWER MONTESSORI REQUIRE

Full-time/Part-time

CHILDCARE ASSISTANT Must have FETAC Level 5 Apply with CV to:

sunflowermontessori@outlook.ie SITUATIONS WANTED < RELIABLE LADY AVAILABLE: For housekeeping, cooking, shopping and general duties. Full clean driving licence and has own transport. Reference available on request. Roscommon / Leitrim area. Contact 087 2856845

SITUATIONS VACANT < LABOURER REQUIRED: For both domestic and commercial sites. Working 4 days a week. Good rate of pay. Safe Pass required. Clean Driving licence a benefit. Call Mark 086 830 2183 < WELDER WANTED: Welder trainee or improver, part-time, full driving licence required. Tel: 086 8267966 < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: Experienced, caring, responsible, childminder required to mind 2 children, 9 months and a 2 year old. Monday to Friday from August. Roscommon Town/Castlecoote/Athleague area. Apply to PO Box No 2066 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

If you believe you are the right candidate for this job, please forward your CV and cover letter to micheal.keane@vwjk.ie Closing date for applications is 14th May 2021

We are recruiting!

We need cleaning staff in the following areas Roscommon, Boyle & Carrick on Shannon Part-time & Full-time positions Full training given Apply with CV to: Appointments page Box No: 2065 c/o Roscommon Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021 People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

We’re hiring! RECRUITING FOR:

Full & part-time SALES POSITIONS in Footwear Department Retail experience preferable Contact: accounts@donnellan.ie

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The local paper!

TELEPHONE:

090 66 34633 EMAIL:

advertising@ roscommon people.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Classifieds

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

APPOINTMENTS

CURRENT VACANCY

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN NIGHT SHIFT

ELECTRICIAN/FITTER - €18 per h ….…… JOB PROFILE…...... (Kent-Athlone Pharma Group – Ath

(Kent-Athlone Pharma Group – Athlone)

We are currently looking for a Maintenance Technician to join our team in Athlone.

….…… JOB PROFILE…......

Purpose of the Role: provide Maintenance presence on the night shift and carry out all assigned duties. l Must not be allergic to Penicillin. l Be able to work on one’s own initiative, and also take instruction. l Must be able to work in a GMP environment. l Must have mechanical aptitude. Experience in this field is desirable, but not essential as training will be provided. l Be able to complete all necessary documentation in real time and accordance with GMP. l To

We are currently looking for a ELCTRCIAN/FIT

team in Athlone on a Shift Basis

Email: sonya.sabatini@kent-athlone.com Closing date for applications 21st May 2021 CURRENT VACANCY

ELECTRICIAN/FITTER - €18 per hour

Purpose of the Role

(Kent-Athlone Pharma Group – Athlone)

• To provide electrical and mechanical mainten Purpose of the Role: ensuring that equipment asset performance is To provide electrical and mechanical maintenance support to ensure that equipment asset performance is maximised. A high maintenance standard is a must as is adherence high maintenance standard is a must as is ad to quality standards and safety To have a trade cert Electrician/Fitter or hold a 3rd level qualification in Mechanical or Electrical engineering.standards and safety quality Install new electrical systems to required standard and to maintain those systems while upholding safety guidelines and complying with codes and regulations. • Toandhave aintrade Electrician/Fitter or hold Knowledge experience high speedcert automatic lines necessary. Email: sonya.sabatini@kent-athlone.com qualification in Mechanical or Electrical engine Closing date for applications 21st May 2021 • Install new electrical systems to required stan maintain those systems while upholding safet complying with codes and regulations. Be member of our Kobelco service and team providing pre and after sales supportin to the Kobelco excavator range. • a keyKnowledge experience Solving Undercarriage Needshigh speed aut ….…… JOB PROFILE…......

We are currently looking for an ELECTRICIAN/FITTER to join our team in Athlone on a Shift Basis.

l l l

McSharry TRACK are the exclusive dealer for Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. We are now recruiting to fill these different roles.

ARRABAWN DAIRIES are seeking candidates for a

We keep machine downtime to a minimum by carrying the largest stock of undercarriage parts in Ireland. We are the exclusive dealer for Berco (Italy) and a range of other OEM manufacturers.

position in the Athlone Region:

RESPONSIBILITIES: This role is a and front-line position between our head office in Four Mile the service wemoving provide. House and customer locations throughout the country. Be a keyofmember of the ourproduct Tracks team the sales of underIt involves all aspects supporting rangesupporting (mini – heavy line excavators) from pre-delivery to after sales support. carriage parts to our broad base of customers throughout Ireland. SUPPORT: You will be provided with a service van, phone and diagnostic tools. You will receive ongoing training and support. EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: We are looking for a qualified fitter with considerable experience of working with excavators. This person should have a proven track record demonstrating their ability to meet the varying demands this role. ROLE: of Learn all about undercarriage parts so that you can SALARY: Negotiable

eeking candidates for a Van Sales Driver position inFULL-TIME theOurAthlone Region: CONSTRUCTION Van Sales Driver success is based on the qualityPLANT of the partsFITTER

Dairies have a vacancy for an experienced Van Sales acancyArrabawn for an experienced VanOperating salesoutDriver to operate in the Athlone Driver to operate in the Athlone region. of our Athlone depot, the successful candidate must have a full clean POSITION: ur Athlone depot, successful candidate must have a fullSALES cleanENGINEER C-licence C-licencethe and up to date CPC training. advise customers on their best options to stay on track. g. Key duties and responsibilities associated with the role are: POSITION: Armed with this knowledge the role involves dealing with APPRENTICE CONSTRUCTION FITTER • Servicing Arrabawn customers with Arrabawn branded and own branded customer enquiries, identifying parts andPLANT solving their lities products associated with the role are: undercarriage needs. omers• Ensuring withthatArrabawn branded and own branded products You will be working in the Tracks team that consists of sales orders are delivered and merchandised as required other office and workshop members. You will liaise with other members to organise jobs and deliveries. s are• Monitoring delivered and merchandised as required and managing returns, stock levels and cash collection. EXPERIENCE & SKILLS: • Completing all requiredlevels documentation g returns, stock and cash collection. This is a starting position. Experience of plant machinery and parts is an advantage though not absolutely necesThe successful candidate must be customer and consumer focussed and be able sary. On the job training will be provided. Good commudocumentation SEND CV / nication CONTACT: to work on own initiative. Handheld device experience would be an advantage. skills including computer skills are required. The QUALIFICATION: The Craft of Construction Plant Fitting approved by Solas and EU

RESPONSIBILITIES: Learn to become a construction plant fitter who services, diagnoses and resolves technical concerns in mobile construction equipment. EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: This is an ideal opportunity for someone who has finished school and would like to learn an apprenticeship. We like positive people and we are looking for someone to make a positive contribution to our team. We are looking for that person to show good problem solving skills and communication skills. We also like people with good work practices including time keeping, personal presentation and safety awareness.

If you are interested in this role, please apply with a CV and Cover Letter to:

McSharry, McSharry role has variedNiall demands so the ability toTRACK, cope with these Old Brick Site, Four Mile House, Co. and Roscommon demands including planning, organising working Tel: + 353 90 6629500 independently and as part of a team are essential. Email: niall@mcsharrybros.com RENUMERATION: NegotiableI www.mcsharrybros.com www.mcsharrytrack.com

recruitment@arrabawn.ie must be customer and consumer focussed and be able to work on own citing Vansales Athlone experience would be an advantage. SEND CV / CONTACT:

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

Sports PEOPLE

No support cast as Dubs arrive at the Hyde! Allianz National Football League Division One (South): Roscommon v Dublin at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday at 1.45 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

When we left Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday, November 8th after a disappointing defeat to Mayo in the Connacht semifinal, little did we know what lay ahead: six months of lockdown in the depths of winter with no GAA to sustain us or help us cope with the grinding boredom and 24-hour diet of doom and gloom. Thankfully, the games are back, and while the supporters are still not allowed to attend, at least there is something for GAA folk to talk about again! Roscommon’s NFL campaign starts this Sunday at Dr. Hyde Park against the six-ina-row All-Ireland champions Dublin and under normal circumstances this game would have generated huge interest. However, while it won’t be the same without supporters, this promises to be a fascinating opener. Roscommon have flipflopped between Divisions One and Two in recent seasons, but a prolonged stay in the top tier and regular matches against the best teams would aid the development of the team…and that’s exactly what we have at the Hyde this Sunday. Normally Dublin are slow league starters, but with a shorter campaign and a knockout championship to

follow, the champions will come to Roscommon looking to put down a marker. A defeat would put them under pressure with Kerry next up in the fixtures. It’s also an important game for Roscommon. Anthony Cunningham has shaken up his backroom team and it will be interesting to see what effect the arrival of coach Stephen Poacher will have on Roscommon’s style of play. Predicting the line-ups is probably a futile exercise given the lack of match practice for both sides, but Roscommon did manage to play two challenge games at the weekend against Cavan

and Sligo (winning both), and that would have given the management a better idea of their starting fifteen for Sunday. Remember too that there are seven subs allowed in the league this year, which will give players more of a chance of some game time. I predict Colm Lavin will start in goal and that David Murray, Niall Daly, Sean Mullooly, Niall Daly, Brian Stack, and David Neary will all see action in defence. At midfield, Tadhg O’Rourke, Eddie Nolan, and Cathal Compton will be in contention while up front, Conor Cox, Ciaráin and Diarmuid

Murtagh, Cathal Cregg, Enda and Donie Smith, and Niall Kilroy will all be involved at some stage. I expect Dublin to field a strong team including household names like Stephen Cluxton, Jonny Cooper, Philly McMahon, James McCarthy, Brian Fenton, Dean Rock, Con O’Callaghan, Eoin Murchan, and Ciarán Kilkenny. It will be interesting to see how the rule changes affect the game, with warnings from many observers that the ‘advantage rule’ is set to be controversial. At the start of every season, teams and supporters are full

of hope and expectation, and I feel that Roscommon are set to have a good year given the strength of their panel and their strong management team. To win the Connacht championship is definitely a very achievable goal but the season starts here, and the challenge could not be more difficult. It’s hard to call anything other than a Dublin win, but I am hopeful that the home side will make it uncomfortable for them. Prediction: Dublin Note: In the other game in Division One (South) on Saturday, Kerry play Galway in Tralee at 3 pm.

Kick-out strategy: Colm Lavin is expected to start in goal for Roscommon this Sunday.

3 things to watch out for… Keepers of influence

Kick-out strategies are such an important part of the game now so the pressure on Colm Lavin and his Dublin counterpart will be huge this Sunday. Possession is vital, and with the likes of Brian Fenton and James McCarthy sure to be playing around the centre for Dublin, Roscommon will have to have to get it right.

‘Rock’ steady from frees

One thing that hasn’t changed in the game over the years is the value of a good free taker. If Dean Rock is playing, any Dublin free inside the 45-metre line will be converted. Roscommon will have to develop a couple of players who are dependable from the placed ball. It could make the difference between winning and losing – not just on Sunday, but also in the games ahead.

New rule changes

Flashback to Croke Park in 2019! Supporters might be unable to attend but there promises to be plenty of excitement this Sunday as Roscommon take on Dublin in National Football League Division One (South) at Dr. Hyde Park. Pic: Mick McCormack

The changes to the ‘advantage rule’ look like they will lead to some confusion. In the hurling last weekend, we saw a plethora of frees associated with the changes. Most of those frees were converted but in football, frees from over 45 metres out are seldom pointed. In another change, any goal scoring opportunity inside the 20-metre line or the ‘semi-circle’ that is denied by a foul will result in a penalty. Like all other rules, it will be down to the interpretation of the referee. Sunday’s ‘man in the middle’ is Derek O’Mahony of Tipperary.

Cunningham: ‘Essential to stay at this level’ < SEAMUS DUKE

In his third year in charge of the Roscommon footballers, and with one Connacht title already under his belt, Anthony Cunningham’s league focus this year must be to stay in Division One, in order to ensure top-class opposition on a regular basis. “For the development of the players and the team, it is essential that we are playing at the top level,” he told People Sport this week. “I would have preferred to have had a few more weeks to prepare, but it is what it is now

and we have to just get on with it. We are delighted to be back. We are all a bit rusty, but that was to be expected. “The players have worked hard on their own, but being involved with a team is different. Our new strength and conditioning coach Gary Flannery has been great, and I have to praise the attitude of the players. They are super athletes and are very professional about their approach. They all want to get better and are looking forward to the game against the Dubs”. The Galwayman is relishing the chance to play against the All-Ireland champions but

admits it’s disappointing that there will be no supporters at the Hyde. “We couldn’t ask for a bigger challenge than playing the Dubs at home in our first game of the year, but the biggest disappointment is that there will be no supporters there. You cannot replace the fans, who are the ones that really count. Having said that, the Roscommon supporters will be there in spirit, and hopefully we will give them something to shout about on Sunday,” he said. Player rotation will be crucial for all teams this year and Cunningham says Roscommon will be no different.

“There are three league games in quick succession and then a play-off game, so we will be looking at as many players as we can this year. We are allowed seven subs in the league so that’s a help, and it will mean game time for players,” he said. While the league campaign is important for development, the main focus is still the championship clash with Galway on July 4th: “That’s the big game, and we are hopeful that there may be some supporters allowed to attend that game. But that’s a long way off, and we are getting ready for the Dubs now this Anthony week,” he concluded. Cunningham Cunningham’s

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

SportsPeople ‘Must win’ Mayo showdown for Keane’s troops Allianz NHL Division 2B (Round 2): Roscommon v Mayo on Saturday in Dr. Hyde Park at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

After the disappointment of last Sunday’s loss to Donegal, Roscommon hurlers face a ‘must win’ game against old rivals Mayo on Saturday. There are were some positives for manager Johnny Keane to take out of Sunday’s defeat and with a couple of players returning to the squad, the Galway native will be hoping for a good display and a brace of league points this time around. Team captain Jason Kilkenny looks likely to be available for selection and Adam Finnerty will also be back. Roscommon will need to provide more support for Cathal Dolan and spread the scoring among more of the attackers. Mayo will come to Dr. Hyde Park encouraged by their excellent win against Derry last Sunday and the return of Keith Higgins to their ranks is a major boost. Higgins is a class act and with the likes of Cathal Freeman and Shane Boland not far behind in terms of ability, this will be a very stern test for Roscommon. With Derry (away) and Kildare (home) on the horizon, Roscommon want to stay in this division and build on the good work that has been achieved in recent years. There is never much between these two sides but this is a huge challenge for Roscommon. Home advantage might just be enough to win it by a point or two. Prediction: Roscommon

Late heartbreak for hurlers in league opener Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B (Round One) Donegal 1-13 Roscommon 1-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

It was great to be back but that feeling was tempered by the result at O’Donnell Park in Letterkenny last Sunday when Donegal scored 1-2 in injury-time to deny Roscommon an opening league win. Despite some encouraging signs from Johnny Keane’s men, the reality is that with tough matches ahead against Derry and Kildare, next Saturday’s clash with Mayo assumes a ‘must win’ status for Roscommon in terms of staying in Division 2B. Roscommon looked sharper in the first quarter and Cathal Dolan was unerring from frees and blasted home a penalty in the 14th minute after a foul on Conor Mulry which gave Roscommon a 1-7 to 0-7 half-time lead. However, Donegal should have been level as their talisman Declan Coulter was wide with a penalty in injury-time as the rain poured down. Five minutes into the second half, after Donegal had reduced the margin to one, Roscommon were awarded a penalty of their own when Dolan was fouled by Gavin Browne but Luke White made a fine save from Dolan’s low effort. Cathal Kenny knocked over two fine points from play to leave Roscommon three points to the good entering time added on but after a goalmouth scramble in the 71st minute Ronan

Roscommon manager Johnny Keane was encouraged despite defeat to Donegal in Allianz NHL Division 2B last Sunday.

McDermott goaled from close range for the home side to level the scores. Then sub Niall Cleary and Declan Coulter were on target from long range to seal a dramatic win for the home side and leave Roscommon to make the long journey home empty handed. Roscommon manager, Johnny Keane, was encouraged despite the result. “That’s a game we left behind us but we had some very good displays

out there today from our young lads. I thought that Sean Trundle and Jack Lohan were outstanding. We did a lot of things right and it was disappointing to let Donegal in for that goal. “We have only done six sessions and we have a lot of work to do. The lads will learn from that but we have to be able to hang on to a lead and that was a harsh lesson today. “The match against Mayo is a must

New era dawns as Browne takes charge

Littlewoods National Camogie League Division Four (Round One): Roscommon v Mayo on Saturday in Ballyforan at 2 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon Camogie enters a new era when Frank Browne takes charge of his first competitive game of the junior side against his native Mayo in Ballyforan this Saturday at 2 pm. The appointment of the vastly experienced Browne is certainly a bold one by Roscommon Camogie, and a statement of determination that they intend to challenge for promotion in the league and make substantial progress in the championship after a few years of stagnation. The popular Ballyhaunis man comes with an excellent CV, having managed the Mayo ladies footballers, the Dublin senior camogie team and the Longford senior hurlers. Frank has brought back several well-known Roscommon players like Kelley Hopkins, Caroline Connaughton, Claire Curley, and Niamh Coyle, who will captain the team. He made no secret of the fact that promotion from Division Four is one of his main aims this year. “I don’t think Roscommon should be in Division Four. We are good

The vastly experienced Frank Browne is set to take the reins of Roscommon Camogie for the first time this Saturday.

enough to get out of this division. “I have a few players back on the panel who, for various reasons, were not involved over the past couple of years, and they will bring their experience. We also have younger girls who have had success at underage level, so it’s now a matter of blending youth and experience.

“There are some great people involved here who love camogie. I know that things were at low ebb… but our aim is to try to put things right,” he said. Frank is expecting a spirited challenge from his native county on Saturday. “Mayo will be full of running and confident going into the match,

but we intend to make our blend of youth and experience count, and bring the challenge to them. “The sliotar moves at 110 miles per hour, and nothing will compete with that, so we have been focussing on the basic skills of the game like striking, hooking, blocking and scoring. “With a new management team in place, it might be a chance to get a few wins, get confidence going, and get a Division Four title on the board. That would give us momentum for the championship later in the year. “I hope that the championship is played straight after the league but that’s for another day. At the moment, we want to get off to a winning start on Saturday,” he concluded. Hurling people west of the Shannon and much further afield will know of Frank Browne and his ability of get the best out of the many teams that he has managed over the years. His appointment should signal an exciting year ahead for the Rossies! Prediction: Roscommon

win game for us to try and survive in this division. We hope to have Jason Kilkenny and Adam Finnerty back for that. We looked at a lot of players today. It was good to see Darren Fallon and Shane Naughton back and they will only get better. “We are disappointed but we will pick ourselves up and we’ll be ready,” he concluded. Things don’t get much easier for Roscommon as Mayo with Keith Higgins, Shane Boland and Cathal Freeman arrive at Dr. Hyde Park this Saturday for what will be another tough assignment. Donegal: Luke White; Gavin Browne, Stephen Gillespie, Mark Callaghan; Christopher McDermott, Sean McVeigh, Michael O’Donoghue; Declan Coulter (0-9, 5 frees), Ciaran Matthewson; Danny Cullen, Richie Ryan, Jack O’Loughlin; Bernard Lafferty, Ronan McDermott (1-1), Gerry Gilmore. Subs: Conor O’Grady for Matthewson (55), Padraig Doherty for Donoghue (58), Ciaran Grant for Lafferty, Niall Cleary (0-1) for Ryan (68). Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Paul Dolan, Darren Fallon, Sean Trundle; Darragh Heavey, Peter Kellehan, Eoin Coyle; Ben McGahon, Cathal Dolan (1-5, 1-0 pen, 3 frees); Oisin Kelly (0-1), Cathal Kenny (0-3), Naos Connaughton; Jack Lohan, Conor Mulry (0-1), Gearoid Egan (0-1). Subs: Conall Kennelly for G Egan (35), Cillian Egan for Kelly (44), Shane Naughton for Coyle (62), Trevor Fallon for Kenny (72). Referee: Colm Cumming (Antrim) Man of the Match: Declan Coulter (Donegal)

Short passes

No relegation for clubs

There will be no relegation from the adult club football leagues this year. All divisions will be divided into two groups with five teams in each. The top two teams will play in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, the club hurling championships will start on the weekend of August 7th with the football championships starting the weekend of August 21st. The 2020 JFC ‘A’ final will be played on the weekend of June 25th/26th.

Minors take on Kerry

The Roscommon minor footballers will play Kerry in the 2020 All-Ireland semi-final on the weekend of July 10th/11th. Roscommon’s U-20 footballers play Leitrim in the Connacht championship on Tuesday, July 6th while the minors face Mayo in the 2021 championship on July 23rd/24th.

‘Win A New Campervan’ sold out!

Éire Óg GAA Club announced on Sunday that they have sold all 12,995 tickets in their ‘Win A New Campervan’ draw. The Loughglynn club launched their fundraising campaign on March 19th. Hugh Lynn, Éire Óg PRO, said: “We are extremely excited to announce that, 52 days after launching our #WinANewCampervan fundraiser, all 12,995 tickets are sold out! To everyone who was lucky enough to get one, thanks for the support and best of luck! “Our draw was due to take place on August Bank Holiday Monday, August 2nd, but to ensure the lucky winner gets to enjoy the full summer in it, we’ll be having the draw sooner! Details to follow”.

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Racing this weekend starts this evening over the jumps at Clonmel, off at 4.05 pm. There are two meetings tomorrow, over the jumps at Kilbeggan in the afternoon at 4.10 pm and on the flat in the evening at Leopardstown at 2 pm. Racing on Saturday is at Navan with racing on the level starting at 1.55 pm. Sunday sees two meetings with national hunt at Wexford away at 1.55 pm and on the flat at Naas racing starts at 1.55 pm. Action returns to the west with flat racing at the Cleveragh in Sligo on Tuesday. ITV4 starts it coverage this weekend on Friday with four races from York and one from Newbury. They are covering four races from Newbury and three from Newmarket on Saturday. Saturday racing is also Virgin Media 1. This week there were meetings lost in Britain with a flat card at Chepstow on Tuesday waterlogged and a national hunt card at Newton Abbott yesterday abandoned after torrential rain on Tuesday afternoon. The Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown on Sunday was won by Bolshoi Ballet trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore beating stable mate Lough Derg and Fernando Vichi, trained by O’Brien’s son Donnacha, by 6l and ½l. The winner is now 7/4 ante-post favourite for the Ep-

som Derby. The jockey/trainer combination were completing a double having previously won the Group 3 Irish 1000 Guineas Trial with Joan Of Arc and they went on to make it a four-timer with Sir William Bruce and The Mediterranean in the final two races. Rachael Blackmore registered a treble at Killarney with Cavalry Master and Gin On Line for Henry de Bromhead having won earlier for John Halley on Mr. Tambourine Man. Blackmore has now four for the season and is making good use of champion Townend’s spell on the side lines to launch her attack on this season’s jockey’s championship. Riding honours at Roscommon on Tuesday went to Declan McDonagh who rode a treble, starting with Lord Dudley for trainer Kieran Cotter, going on to ride a double for Joseph O’Brien on Max Mayhem and Vultan. Kevin Manning had a double with Cool And Clever for his father-in-law, Jim Bolger, in the opener and Soaring Monarch for Peter Fahey. Wayne Lordan was aboard Arthur Moore’s Me Too Please and Shane Foley won the finale for Jessica Harrington’s Social Distance. The going was soft, soft to heavy in places. O’Brien enjoyed an acrossthe-board double with Bright Idea and Empathic Answer winning in Killarney, both rid-

den by Shane Crosse. Champion jockey Colin Keane completed a treble here for three different trainers, on Probe in the opener for Dermot Weld, for John Murphy on Fall For A Kiss and on Ger Lyons on Chiricahua in the finale

to help support each other and potentially save a life. Ohana is a voluntary organisation that provides online training to the public to help identify

those who may be suicidal and direct them to resources that will assist them. Having a conversation with somebody who is struggling

Racing News Jim Bolger’s Poetic Flare and Jessica Harrington’s Lucky Vega, first and third in the English 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, head the market for the Irish 2,000 Guineas on May 22nd at 3/1 joint favourites. Aidan O’Brien’s Newmarket 1000 Guineas winner Mother Earth is only 11/4 with stablemate Joan Of Arc 2/1 favourite. Joseph O’Brien’s Pretty Gorgeous, who missed the English race scoping badly, divides them at 5/2. Trainer Jessica Harrington has been prohibited from attending a racecourse by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board for two weeks and has been fined €3,500 after contravening Covid-19 restrictions during Aintree’s Grand National meeting by not staying in the ‘Irish Bubble’ set up for the duration of the meeting at Haydock racecourse. She will be able to attend at the Curragh for the 1000 Guineas as her suspension starts on the May 24th, the day after the Guineas Festival. Rich Ricci has retired three of

his loyal servants from racing. He confirmed the retirement of Faugheen, Douvan and Benie Des Dieux who have run their final races. Faugheen is one of the most popular National Hunt horses of the modern era, winning the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown and back-to-back victories in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. The 13-Y-0 won 17 of his 26 starts and was placed third in his final race at Cheltenham, the Marsh Chase. He won over €1 million for his connections. Douvan, unbeaten in 13 runs, won 14 of his 17 races including the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and the Arkle Trophy at Prestbury Park. He won his last race at Clonmel in November 2019. Benie Des Dieux won eight of her ten races including the 2018 Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and the French Champion Hurdle at Auteuil. Probably her best run was when she was touched off by Honeysuckle in the Grade 1 2020 Mares Hurdle in Prestbury Park.

Lord Dudley and Declan McDonogh win in Lenabane.

This weekend there is a twoday meeting at Necarne outside Irvingstown in Co. Fermanagh on Friday, 84 entries, and Saturday, 66 entries, starting at 2 pm both days. There are two meetings on Sunday with 153 entries at Ballindenisk in Co. Cork and

128 at Stradbally in Co. Laois with both meetings away at 2 pm. Unfortunately, racing is still behind closed doors and will probably stay that way until at least the opening of the autumn season in September. Jamie Codd announced his retirement from riding in the point-to-point ranks on Sunday. He rode Supreme Gift to victory at Tattersalls on Sunday for Denis Murphy. The Wexford rider began his career at his local track at Lingstown in

can help break the stigma associated with mental health, according to Su Carty, director of Ohana Zero Suicide Awareness.

As a member of the World Rugby Council and IRFU committee, who has been in sports administration since 2009, Carty put her hand up to return

Point-to-Point News

2000 and has ridden 972 winners since and is 2nd on the all-time list to Galway native Derek O’Connor. He reached the 800th winner milestone at Rockfield in 2016 on Sizingdowntherhine for Jim Dreaper. He won the leading champion rider on 2 occasions, in 2014 and 2016. He will remain riding on the track. He also works for Tattersalls on whose land he had his final winner between the flags.

Ladies footballers complete Ohana ZERO training Roscommon’s Intermediate Ladies team and management recently completed Ohana ZERO suicide training, equipping themselves with the skills

Pictured are the Roscommon Intermediate ladies and management that participated in the Ohana ZERO suicide training. You had to be over 18 to complete.

Ballymoe Community Fundraising Draw Tickets are now on sale for the Ballymoe Community Fundraising Draw on Sunday, July 4th with proceeds going towards Ballymoe Community Centre, Ballymoe Football Club, and Ballymoe Tidy Towns. The first prize is a pedigree Limousin heifer and one tonne of meal worth €2,000 or €1,500 cash alternative, second prize is €1,000 in cash, third prize is an Apple iPad plus loads more! An Early Bird prize draw will take place on Sunday, May 23rd with a mountain bike valued at €600 up for grabs. Tickets cost €20 for one, €50 for three, and €100 for seven. Tickets can be purchased from committee members and online at https://pay.myeasypay. com.

to her former job when the government made their ‘Be on Call for Ireland’ appeal for healthcare workers as the first wave of Covid-19 swept across the country. The training programme was designed by suicide prevention experts for the UK’s Zero Suicide Alliance, with Carty and the crew in Ohana – a Hawaiian term which means ’family’ – helping to adapt it for Ireland. What an amazing initiative by our ladies, especially in Mental Awareness Month. Visit ohana. ie/resources for mental health resources.

LGFA kit van sponsored by Conor Cassidy Cars Roscommon Ladies Gaelic Football is delighted to announce that Conor Cassidy Cars, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon are sponsoring a kit van for the Roscommon Intermediate Ladies football team. Moving a county team around the country requires a lot of logistical support, and this sponsorship will ensure that the team's equipment and supplies will travel in style! It is heartening that even in these difficult times, Conor was willing to step up and support our team's preparation. Roscommon LGFA confirmed the news on Tuesday, as they gear up for the start of the Lidl National Football League on May 23rd with a home game to Fermanagh in Dr. Hyde Park.

Pictured are Aisling Hanley, Conor Cassidy, Sinead Kenny, Niall Heaney, Diane O’Hora (Roscommon Intermediate Ladies Manager), Brendan Cregg (Roscommon LGFA Chairperson), Laura Fleming and Declan Walsh (Roscommon LGFA U-16 Manager).

Roscommon People Friday 14 May 2021

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< SEAMUS DUKE

In any conversation about the best Roscommon footballers over the past 25 years Frankie Dolan would have to be near the top or indeed at the top of those rankings. The St. Brigid’s and Roscommon forward was a brilliant player for club and county and he had a wonderful playing career. But it is only when reading his autobiography ‘Outside of the Right’ (written with the assistance of Roscommon People journalist Dan Dooner) that one remembers just how colourful a career it has been both on and off the field. There are many great stories about some of the biggest days in Roscommon and St. Brigid’s’ football history over the past quarter of a century and some off the field incidents too, which makes it a very memorable memoir. Frankie’s breakthrough in Gaelic football arrived in 1997 as part of a St. Brigid’s team which won its first senior championship in 28 years. “We won the minor in 1996 and myself and John Tiernan and a couple of others were brought into the senior squad,” he told the Roscommon People this week. “The club brought in John O’Mahony as manager and it was a great appointment. We beat Clann na nGael in the final by a point. We were lucky enough in the end. Paul McManus was injured for Clann and it was probably fitness that got us through that day but it was a huge win for the club”. One of Roscommon’s most memorable wins in the last 25 years was the dramatic last-minute victory against Mayo in the Connacht final in Dr. Hyde Park in 2001. In ‘Outside of the Right’, Frankie details how the Roscommon players walked to Dr. Hyde Park from the Abbey Hotel on the day of the final. “It was great craic to be honest. We walked out the Golf Links Road. There was great banter from the supporters and I think it made the players more relaxed. I think it was a great idea but you wouldn’t see it happening today!” 2003, under Tommy Carr, was Frankie’s best in a Roscommon jersey. He scored twelve points against Offaly and thirteen against Kildare as the Rossies went on a sensational run through the qualifiers. Many saw Frankie as a shoo-in for an All Star that year but one never materialised. He was disappointed but is philosophical about it today: “We had a good year as a team and I played well but it was just one of those things”. Frankie says that mental health is a

Gay Sheerin

Another interesting feature in Frankie’s book is his admiration for Gay Sheerin, who he says was the best Roscommon manager he played for during his career. “I was so sorry the way his tenure finished up (championship defeat to Leitrim in 2000). We should have been 12 to 15 points up at half-time that day but we collapsed in the second half. That loss was certainly not Gay Sheerin’s fault. It was down to us players on the field. We let him down. He took the blame for that defeat and it was very unfair. “Gay just wanted the best for Roscommon football…unlike some of the other people that managed Roscommon over the years, who probably wanted the best for themselves. I know that you always have a soft spot for the manager who brings you in to the county set-up, but Gay was a great Roscommon man”.

Frankie on… All-Ireland glory Frankie Dolan.

huge issue for players and maintains that thankfully there is help available for players now, which wasn’t the case during his playing career. “In 2002, there was absolutely no help out there at all (after the ‘naked pool’ incident). If that happened now it would be a totally different situation and there would be plenty of people there to help. At that time myself and Nigel (Dineen) really suffered and it was very unfair. There was no one there to give us advice or to chat to us about it at all. We were totally hung out to dry. “I left the country as a result of what happened because I couldn’t put up with the hassle. I never realised what I was going through until I spoke to someone about it. I went to a counsellor and it really helped me I have to say and I was able to move on afterwards. People’s mental health is a very important issue,” he said. Needless to say, Frankie is not content

to slip into the background over the next few years. He is involved in the development of a revolutionary new sports aid called the ‘Ball Hive Pro Rebounder’, which can be used as a training aid by teams playing any kinds of ball sports. He has teamed up with Fergal Kelly for this new venture. “There has been huge interest in the rebounder and we have had interest from a couple of Premier League clubs in the UK and we are hoping to develop the product for use in the UK and USA as well as in Ireland. The Covid-19 situation has held us up but we are hoping to get back on track soon”. Frankie continues to ply his trade as a very popular postman and lives in Roscommon town with his wife Caroline and their sons Ryen and Jack. He says he decided to write the book to give people an insight into what the real Frankie Dolan is like.

“A number of people including my wife Caroline said it to me…about writing my story. It’s not something that I was ever interested in but when the lockdown came I thought it might be a good way of passing the time. A lot of people have a perception of what sort of person Frankie Dolan is but people that know me know what I’m like and with this book I try to set the record straight,” he concluded. What’s included in this article barely skims the surface of what is a cracking good read. If you have been a follower of Roscommon club and county football and want a different perspective told with striking honesty and clarity then I recommend this highly. * ‘Outside of the Right’ the Frankie Dolan autobiography by Frankie Dolan and Dan Dooner is available to pre-order from bookshops now, priced at €20.

On winning the All-Ireland club title in 2013 Frankie says that the team were building every year in terms of experience and the All-Ireland semi-final win against Crossmaglen in Mullingar that year was one of the most intense championship games he was ever involved in. “That was the day when we really won that All-Ireland. They (Cross) were such a great team and that was some game. There was everything in it: great play, rows, hard hits, great scores, a huge crowd and incredible intensity. It was brilliant stuff and probably the best big game that I ever played in. “To beat Crossmaglen and then beat the Dublin champions (Ballymun Kickhams) in the final was some achievement and one that I am very proud of,” he says.

‘Naked pool’ incident: ‘We got no support afterwards’ Frankie’s story would not be complete without a reference to the infamous ‘naked pool’ incident in Derry which made national news at the time and which led to the disbandment of the senior football panel. An incident, he says, which

was poorly handled by the County Board “Look, it is something that should not have happened, but having said that I have seen things a hundred times worse over the years. What we did

was probably stupid but it was harmless. But the full blame was heaped on just two players (Frankie and Nigel Dineen) and we didn’t get any support at all. “I didn’t go to the meeting when they disbanded the team but I

knew what was coming. It was an easy way out for the County Board to blame the players. That whole thing really annoyed me. “I was injured then after that and needed an operation (shoulder) and was really down in the dumps.

I was unemployed and I went off to Australia for six months in 2002 and it was the best thing I ever did. I cleared my head, I did a bit of training and I was ready for action when I came back for 2003 and I had the hunger back”.

Roscommon People Friday 14th May 2021

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