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Roscommon manager Davy Burke with his son Shane pictured after Roscommon’s victory over London in the Connacht FBD League semi-final last Saturday evening in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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I have a Facebook account and I wonder what would happen to my account if I died. I would like for my account to close immediately after my death. Also, I would not like my friends of family to see my name as a “suggested friend” after my death. Do I have to mention this in my will or how should it be dealt with? Please advise me. Most of us now have a Facebook account and the question of what happens our account after our death is something that we don’t often consider. Facebook however offer a number of options to users. Facebook now allows users choose someone who can manage their account after their death. Users can choose a “legacy contact” to post on their page after their death, respond to new friend requests and update their profile picture and cover photo. Alternatively, users can have their accounts deleted. Facebook advises that a legacy contact will not be able to see any of the user’s private messages. If users do not name a legacy contact, but do name a “digital heir” within their will, Facebook will designate that person as a legacy contact. Facebook will also ensure that the account of a user who has died will not appear as a “suggested friend” or in other ways which may upset the person’s loved ones. If the deceased did not select a legacy contact or digital heir then the named executor in a will or closest next-of-kin may contact Facebook and arrange for the account to be deactivated. A special request must be submitted to Facebook including a copy of the deceased person’s birth certificate, death certificate and proof of being the lawful representative of the deceased person, or his/her estate. Google also allow users to select digital heirs for its Gmail accounts and cloud storage.

We’re not Secret Service agents! It’s the local elections! So, who’s going to this meeting? Top secret! You can tell me! I need to keep things tight… You want me to be your Director of Elections! You have to tell me who’s going to the meeting! Tap finger to nose, mysterious wink, keep CYCLING ACCIDENT things tight! We’re not Secret Service agents! It’s the local elections! If you were involved in a cycling accident contact

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

(They pause to check if anyone is within earByrne Carolan shot as they continue their furtive chat) Cunningham Solicitors Are you REALLY going for it? Absolutely! I think! On what grounds? On the grounds that the time has come for decisive leadership, I think! Let me get this straight… you’re going to declare for the local elections, and you’re planning a meeting of your kitchen cabinet? YES! Where? Eh… in our kitchen? And who’s going? Well, I have a special adviser, a close confidant, a trusted colleague, a number cruncher, a strategist… and a dab hand at putting up posters! Impressive! That’s about six people already on board! You’ll hardly need me! Not need you? THAT’S ALL YOU! YOU

are the special adviser/close confidant/ trusted colleague/number cruncher… Okay, I get it! But seriously, you must have other people coming to the meeting? I need to keep my cards close to my chest, but I’ll invite my wife, neighbour number three… What’s their name… neighbour number three?

☺

Arva GAA Club in County Cavan and Cullyhanna GAA Club of Armagh, respectively the winners of the All-Ireland Club Junior and Intermediate Football titles last weekend Ireland rugby coach Andy Farrell, after he was appointed head coach of the British and Irish Lions for their Australian tour in 2025

It’s been a BAD week for…

☹

The Government, under fire over its immigration policy

Byrne Carolan Cunningham info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

Not sure if I can be involved… You HAVE to! You’re my right-hand man! My Director of Elections! We’ll be a dream team! We could be a nightmare team! We can do this! The time is right! Is it? Or is it just an ego trip? No! Ego doesn’t come into it, if I say so myself! One great thing about me is I recognise the importance of not being too egotistical. I’m brilliant on that front! You’re absolutely certain you want to run? It’s not about what I want! Huh? It’s the pressure I’m being put under! I’ve received so many calls from people urging me to run! Oh don’t start! So are you on? I’ll speak to MY people! I understand this is about public service. How much does a Director of Elections get paid? Oh dear! Now are you buying me a pint?

Seán O’Sullivan, overall winner of this year’s BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (the Limerick youth’s successful entry was titled ‘VerifyMe: A new approach to authorship attribution in the post-ChatGPT era’)

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

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

(They pause to draw up a provisional strategy for how to get elected)

It’s been a GOOD week for…

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

SOLICITORS

Dunno, they only moved in two years ago! How do you hope to get elected if you don’t know your neighbours? Relax! Once we get this meeting out of the way, you and I will cover our bailiwick with the speed of a whirlwind! Yeah, and probably as destructive!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Michael Coyne, native of Fairymount, who celebrated his 107th birthday last weekend, pictured with a special birthday card made by his neighbour, Max McDonald, who shares the same birthday as Michael – but is 100 years younger! See page 10 for more. Pic: Brian Farrell

Rory McIlroy (well, relatively speaking), after a poor finish in the Dubai Invitational handed victory to England’s Tommy Fleetwood, perhaps reinforcing a growing view that the Northern Irish superstar is now consistently prone to squandering winning opportunities in the final round of tournaments

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople Claudia Gormley, Ronan McDonnell and Claire Hanley from Noel Carr & Co pictured at the recent Hospice Coffee Morning held in the Bank of Ireland in Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Anne Marie Beirne, Bank of Ireland Roscommon Branch Manager; Pat Compton and Hannah Reynolds pictured at the recent Hospice Coffee Morning held in the Bank of Ireland in Roscommon. Pic: Kieran Croghan

‘Make your own show!’ RosFM invite to local groups Calling all local community groups… RosFM, Roscommon’s community radio station, is planning to provide all voluntary groups in the local area with a chance to come into studio and make their own radio programme to highlight the work they are doing in the community. RosFM will provide the studios and the expertise, but the community group will

decide on the style, music played and the format of the show. It is a great opportunity for community groups to draw attention to the contribution they are making to the local area and to attract new members. For further details, contact The Manager, RosFM, The Cube Flexispace, Lanesborough Road, Roscommon Town, email info@rosfm.ie or call 090-6626181.

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THE TEN LUCKY WINNERS ARE... • Catherine Breheny, St Anne’s Terrace, Athlone • K. Mulhern, Rahara, Co Roscommon • Joan Lynch, St Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon • Olivia Murray, Tulsk, Co Roscommon • Aoife K. Kiely, Beltra, Sligo • Jamesie Greene, Lisacul, Castlerea • Fran Cox, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon • Rebecca Larkin, Curbane, Elphin, Co Roscommon • Sachin Malhodia, Ard Ri, Roscommon Town • Martin Finnerty, Cam, Brideswell, Athlone

*CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS AND MANY THANKS TO THE HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WHO ENTERED THE COMPETITION!

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople

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Meeting in Ballagh House to formalise new Men’s Shed A meeting to formalise the setting up of a new Men’s Shed will be held in Ballagh House in Kilrooskey (F42YN61) at 8 pm on Friday, January 26th. The meeting will be hosted by Pat Towey from the Irish Men’s Shed Association and will wel-

come new members from Curraghroe, Doughill, Cloontuskert, Derrane, Kilteevan, Four Mile House, Clooncah, and the greater Ballagh parish area. Over the past twelve months, the old Parochial House in Ballagh (now Ballagh House) has

been a hive of activity, with the partial refurbishment of the property and its adjoining buildings for community use. Another meeting will be held in the coming weeks to set up a new Women’s Shed and Active Age Groups.

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Hollie Servis-Thorpe and Erin Hayes from Roscommon Community College pictured with Denis Naughten TD at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend.

Works to start on Ballaghaderreen pool next month – Kerrane

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has announced that works on the swimming pool in Ballaghaderreen will take place at the beginning of February. Speaking following further engagement with the owners of the swimming pool, Deputy Kerrane said, “The swimming pool in Ballaghaderreen has now been closed for one year. I am in contact with the owners

weekly and sometimes several times in any one week. “I am annoyed and frustrated that the pool has remained closed for so long. I know locals and the very many people who used the pool are too. “I am conscious that people are seeing such slow progress and I know people are fed up but I committed to provide updates at every stage. I am

advised materials will arrive by the end of this month and works will then take place to be fully completed within two weeks. “As works commence, I will be in close communication with the owners and I will continue to share updates as we have movement to keep the public fully informed”, she concluded.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

FRIDAY Chat show giants

Against my better judgement, I watched some of tonight’s Late Late Show, but I must admit it was actually quite enjoyable, certainly much better than the norm. The credit for that must go to the excellent musicians and the fact that there was – finally – a sense of ‘A list’ guests, with chat show superstars Graham Norton and Conan O’Brien both in the room. Actually, it might have been a good idea to have those two on together. It’s a pity that likeable host Patrick Kielty made the error of judgement of guffawing throughout O’Brien’s heartfelt singing of ‘Too-Ra-LooRa-Loo-Ral’ – which was disrespectful (if not necessarily intended as such).

SATURDAY League countdown

No surprises in Bekan today, where Roscommon defeated London by a nine-point margin to qualify for a 10th successive FBD final. It’s all shadow boxing of course, ahead of what’s to come. The usefulness of these early season tournaments has long been questioned, but I suppose at the very least they provide an opportunity for management to blood new players, albeit not in the most competitive of environments. Roscommon won by 0-21 to 1-9, and the Roscommon People had Seamus Duke and photographer Bernie O’Farrell present (see our sports section). Meanwhile, to continue the boxing terminology, the gloves will be on – or should I say off? – in a mere 10 days’ time, when Roscommon begin their National Football League Division One campaign away to Tyrone. Let the (real) games begin – we can’t wait!

WEDNESDAY ‘Faulty’ Towers?

SUNDAY The whole country?

Half of the front page of the Irish Mail on Sunday is taken up with an image of Ryan Tubridy and a promo for his new column in that newspaper. ‘The new MoS columnist the whole country wants to read’ screams the headline. But I have it on good authority that there’s an old man in Carlow, and quite possibly a lady in Leitrim – those two at least – who don’t want to read it.

SUNDAY Dermotgate

Somehow, the Sunday Independent managed to create a song and dance about the fact that ‘celebrity architect’ Dermot Bannon was granted a private briefing from Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien’s department about a government (vacant homes) grant. It’s a scandal, tweeted one ex-RTE man, while the apparently unimpressed ‘Sindo’ made it their front-page lead. Others took to Twitter to dismiss this as a non-story. On the contrary, I think an immediate

apology is required. No government department representative(s) should have to be subjected to a private audience with Mr Bannon – the celebrity architect should apologise immediately.

MONDAY Lucky escape…

Unexpectedly, a happy ending to ‘Blue Monday’… as on our return from visiting family I flicked on Virgin Media to discover that I had missed Deputy Mattie McGrath’s entire contribution on the Tonight Show. Woo hoo Monday.

TUESDAY How not to govern…

On a more serious note, the scenes in Roscrea yesterday were a further worrying sign of the escalating crisis in relation to housing of asylum seekers. Scuffles broke out between protesters and gardaí as around 17 asylum seekers were being moved into the Racket Hall Hotel. A disturbing pattern has now been established… locals stage protests at locations which are earmarked for accommodating International Protection

applicants. Said protests are then at least partly hijacked by far-right elements in our society who have no association with the area in question. Social unrest ensues, our society becoming more divided. I absolutely believe that racism is driving some of this, but it is also the case that many reasonable people have genuinely-held fears and concerns. I also believe that the Government’s handling of the asylum seekers’ issue has been very poor. The Government can validly make the point that we are living in extraordinary times, but the Coalition has failed to appease public concerns, and stands accused of trying to house large numbers of asylum seekers effectively by stealth. When it comes to accommodating refugees, we do need to do our share, and we should be compassionate. But our Government needs to be more open, transparent and honest in its approach. Any protest that isn’t peaceful is not acceptable (and should not be tolerated). Equally, the Government must now urgently regain control of this situation, as there is a real danger that something tragic could happen at one of these protests. We are crying out for a structured plan. This is now a simmering election issue bubbling dangerously in full view.

On the asylum seekers crisis, the Government is in freefall… stumbling backwards towards its own goal (goalkeeper gone AWOL), tripping over the ball, arms flailing at the injustice of their plight. On Prime Time last night, Thomas Byrne – the Minister of State for Looking Serious – drew the short straw. Presenter Miriam O’Callaghan must have thought she had been handed an overlooked script from Monty Python. Miriam wanted an update on the Roscrea situation, to which Thomas proudly responded that the Government has reached ‘agreement in principle’ on the acquisition of an unused hotel in the town in order to set up a ‘community hotel’. This is Roscrea, where Government policy has led to the closure (as a conventional hotel) of the hotel that was actually a hotel up to earlier this week. Now said Government, under pressure after a week of high profile protests by locals over the housing of asylum seekers in said ‘hotel’, have decided they can unearth a new hotel in the town, pretty much overnight. “What is a community hotel?” Miriam innocently wondered. Thomas did his ‘rabbit caught in headlights’ impersonation. Has the Government actually bought a building in Roscrea, Miriam queried. An agreement in principle has been reached, Thomas replied, terrified of saying what he didn’t know, wisely sticking to the hastily-formed briefing he had been given just before coming into studio. But Miriam was incredulous. “It’s a bungled policy” she said to Thomas, who suddenly looked like he was doubling as Minister of State for Looking Indignant. “The policy is very clear” he protested. Miriam (in vintage form): “What? Close a hotel and then buy another one the next day?” To be continued…

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople

Dublin Hospital apologises over death of Castlerea mother of six in 2017 In September 2017, the Fox family and the extended Castlerea community was struck by the untimely passing of Ms Freda Fox. She died following surgical complications at a Dublin hospital. Almost seven years later, following a protracted legal battle, Ms Fox’s family has received some closure. Last week, following a High Court settlement, St Vincent’s University Hospital extended an apology to the Fox family along with a €200,000 settlement. That settlement was made without an admission of liability. Paula Fox, representing the fam-

ily, expressed their profound disappointment and loss of faith in the medical system. Freda Fox, a mother of six and a respected figure in Castlerea, underwent a Whipple surgery on September 1st, 2017. This procedure, known for its complexity, was performed by two trainee surgeons. According to the world renowned medical facility in the USA, The Mayo Clinic: “The Whipple procedure is a complex operation. It can have serious risks. However, this surgery often saves lives”.

Tragically, Ms Fox suffered extensive blood loss of over 17 litres during the operation, leading to multiple cardiac arrests. Despite the efforts made during the procedure and in the intensive care unit, Ms Fox did not survive the complications. The incident raises critical questions regarding the supervision and involvement of trainee surgeons in complex surgeries. Calls have been made across the political and social spectrum to ensure safeguards are put in place to ensure a tragedy of this nature doesn’t happen again.

The late Ms Freda Fox, R.I.P.

Have your say on County Heritage Plan The County Roscommon Heritage Forum, facilitated by Roscommon County Council Heritage Office, has begun the process of preparing a new Heritage Plan for County Roscommon. Survey forms can also be completed online, by post, or by contacting the Heritage Office on 090 6637136 to request a copy of the survey form. This survey is the public’s opportunity to have their say in the formation of the next plan for 2024 to 2028. The final date to respond to the survey is Friday, February 16th, 2024. County Roscommon Heritage Forum is a heritage partnership between local government, state agencies, development agencies, farming organisations, education and training agencies and the community and voluntary sector – all with an active interest in or responsibility for Roscommon’s heritage. The Heritage Act 1995 states that the national heritage includes: monuments,

archaeological objects, heritage objects, architectural heritage, flora, fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes, seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens and parks and inland waterways. Speaking at the launch of the consultation process, Heritage Officer Nollaig Feeney remarked: “Building from the public consultation carried out last year as part of the preparation of the Roscommon Local Economic and Community Plan, this is another opportunity to let us know the aspects of Roscommon’s Heritage that you value and want to see celebrated and conserved. “We are seeking the public’s input in shaping Roscommon’s Heritage Plan by completing the survey. Information gathered will contribute to the development of a new Heritage Plan for County Roscommon and will assist in prioritising areas for heritage action up to 2028”, concluded Ms Feeney.

All

Emilia and Kieran Kenny from Castlerea supporting Roscommon in the Connacht FBD League semi-final against London in the Connacht GAA Air Dome last Saturday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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Gaelscoil de hÍde, Cnoc na Crúibe, Ros Comáin, F42 TD83 090 66 28860 eolasgaelscoildehide@gmail.com www.gaelscoildehide.ie Gaelscoil de hÍde Ros Comáin

@gaelscoildehide

Maidin oscailte ag Gaelscoil de hÍde (Open morning at Gaelscoil de hÍde) Gaelscoil de hÍde, the only Gaelscoil in the county, is holding an open morning on Saturday, January 27th from 10.30 am to 12 noon. Parents and children interested in enrolling in the school for September 2024 or 2025 are welcome to attend and learn what the Gaelscoil offers. The open morning provides an ideal opportunity to explore the school and its facilities first-hand, meet the principal and other members of the school community, and includes a formal address at 11 am. Located at Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon town, Gaelscoil de hÍde was founded in 2000 and is growing from strength to strength throughout the years. This is a very exciting time for the Gaelscoil as our new Gaelscoil is in the design stage and we look forward to the completion of this large-stage project. The Gaelscoil operates under the rules and regulations of the Department of Education and Science. It is a Catholic school. Irish is the medium of teaching in the school and it is also the means of communication between the teachers, children and Board of Management. The ethos of the school is to create a learning environment where the uniqueness of each child is nurtured. Gaelscoil de hÍde offers: *A mixed school with boys and girls being taught together from junior infants to sixth class *Supervision in the school yard from 8.30 am every morning *An afterschool homework club supervised by school staff *All mainstream subjects including German *Interactive whiteboards in all the classrooms and a fully equipped computer room and class iPads

*Three buses serving the school *Sports – football, hurling, camogie, rugby, basketball and swimming from Second Class *Debating and quizzes *Student Council and Coiste na dtuistí *Children prepared for Fleadhanna, Scór na bPáistí, The Big Sing, Féile Ceoil, Carol Service and Christmas concerts *A large number of after-school activities e.g. sport, golf, arts and craft, tin whistle, STEM and Irish Dancing *Creative Ireland and Green Schools’ Programme Gaelscoil de hÍde would like to welcome you along to our open morning on January 27th to hear about the school and consider for yourself if it suits your needs. Email eolasgaelscoildehide@ gmail.com or phone Orla at 090 66 28860 for further information. Táimid ag súil le bualadh leat ag an maidin oscailte.

EU Just Transition Fund: Community and Enterprise Grants Scheme Grants of up to €300,000 are available to local community organisations and SMEs in the wider Midlands area to support projects that create:

Sustainable Employment A Greener and Sustainable Local Economy Gardaí are investigating the fire at a former convent in Lanesboro.

Fire at former Lanesboro convent earmarked for Ukrainian refugees

A property which went on fire in Lanesboro on Tuesday night had been earmarked to accommodate about 85 Ukrainian refugees over the coming months. Gardaí are investigating the fire at a former convent in the town. No significant damage was caused to the building and there were no injuries. It is understood that the building, which has been vacant for over two years, was recently purchased by a local business man with a view to being converted for the purpose of housing Ukrainian refugees in the coming months.

Two fires began at the front and back doors of the old convent in the popular tourist town at around 9.30 pm on Tuesday night. They were quickly brought under control by the Fire Brigade. There had been a meeting between the developers, local county councillors and executives from Longford County Council at the site on Tuesday afternoon. That meeting was organised in order to inform the councillors of the plans for refugee accommodation and to assess progress and a future timeline for the completion of the work.

Register your organisation on MyPobal now to apply. Closing date for applications: 22 February 2024 Application support webinars will be held on: 22 January, 6 February and 13 February

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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‘We’re not to blame for stalled flood relief works’ Environmental group clashes with Council over Lough Funshinagh < EMMETT CORCORAN

In the latest development over the flooding crisis at Lough Funshinagh, Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) has robustly contested recent claims made by Roscommon County Council, with the group asserting that their legal interventions are not to blame for the stagnation of vital flood relief work in the area. Since 2016, the Lough Funshinagh turlough has been of great concern to the local community, as it has not just impacted on farmlands but also on local residents, on multiple occasions requiring emergency flood relief assistance from the local authority.

FIE’s latest rebuttal follows recent statements by the Council, which attributed the delay in executing comprehensive flood relief measures to the environmental group’s legal challenges. The group insists that the real issue stems from the decision of the Office of Public Works (OPW) not to fund the proposed scheme and the Council’s alleged engagement in “unlawful flood relief activities”. According to FIE, the Council abandoned a legally compliant route for addressing the crisis in early 2021, opting instead for what FIE deems unlawful actions. This shift, FIE argues, led to significant time and public money being wasted, time that could have been used to advance a legal flood relief solution. Faced with these claims, the Council maintains a different perspective. Since 2016, when the issue first surfaced, the Council has been at the

Church gate collection for ‘Sick Children of Ireland’ raises over €1k Thanks to all those who contributed to the recent Church Gate Collection in aid of the ‘Sick Children of Ireland’, which was held in Roscommon Town and Kilteevan last weekend. A total of €1,070.78 was collected, of which €228.05 was collected in Kilteevan.

Classes at Celtic Druid Temple, Castlerea

The Celtic Druid Temple in Castlerea is set to host a six-week course, running each Saturday, which focuses on lost aspects of our indigenous spirituality and culture. The course begins on the 17th of February at 2 pm.The course seeks to help seekers connect with the wisdom and traditions of our ancestors. For more, see the Druid School tab at celticdruidtemple.com, or WhatsApp 089 9855026.

forefront of grappling with the increasingly alarming rise in water levels at Lough Funshinagh. The Council has repeatedly expressed its commitment to safeguarding the local community and properties, despite the legal and environmental challenges it faces. The Council’s latest statement underscores its dedication to providing all possible flood protection measures within the constraints of the legal framework, stating: “The Council is fully committed to providing whatever flood protection measures can be provided and is in regular communication with local residents and public representatives. “However and unfortunately, because of the court order, such measures are limited to localised flood defences and pumping in the immediate vicinity of the affected properties”. “This is especially concerning,” the Council stated, referring to the currently high water levels at Lough Funshinagh, “considering that peak levels are typically seen in early spring, which is still several months away”. The escalating legal and environmental stand-off between FIE and the Council highlights the complexity of balancing legal compliance, environmental conservation, and the urgent need for effective flood management solutions. As the community braces for potential future flooding, the situation at Lough Funshinagh remains a point of contention, with no immediate resolution in sight. The Council and FIE continue to uphold their respective positions, leaving the local residents in a state of uncertainty.

Michael celebrates 107th birthday with family and friends

Fairymount native Michael Coyne (right), who celebrated his 107th birthday last weekend, pictured with his Godson Austin Waldron (centre) and friend Sean Browne at Hester’s Golden Eagle in Castlerea on Sunday. Pic: Brian Farrell

Michael Coyne, native of Fairymount, who celebrated his 107th birthday last weekend, pictured with two of his carers Marion Turner and Tracey Cahill after a special birthday Mass held for Michael last Sunday at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Fairymount, Castlerea. Pic: Brian Farrell

Fairymount native Michael Coyne, who celebrated his 107th birthday last weekend, pictured with his friend Sean Browne after a special birthday Mass held for Michael last Sunday at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Fairymount, Castlerea. Pic: Brian Farrell

THE BRIDGE CLUB The most recent results from the local bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Chris and John McGrath; 2nd: Phil and Seamus Cooney; Gross: Kitty Dowd and Phyllis O’Shaughnessy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: June Halliday and Larry Shine; 2nd: Chris and John McGrath; Gross: Mary and Vincent Brennan. St Coman’s Bridge Club – 1st: Kitty Dowd and Celia Ansboro; 2nd: Mary Lennon and Theresa McDermott; Gross: Nuala Costello and Chris McGrath. Ballymurray Bridge Club – (North/South) 1st: Valere and Pat Finneran; 2nd: Fred Kelly-Henry and Mary Raftery; Gross: John O’Gara and George Bannon. (East/West) 1st: Michael McSharry and Tony McManus; 2nd: Helen Earley and Martina Hanley; Gross: Ivan Moran and Kevin Moran. Kilbride Bridge Club – 1st: Brid Gillooly and Frances Keane; 2nd: Margaret Mullen and Pauline Leonard; 3rd: Pauline Donohoe and Martina Fallon.

Michael Coyne (front row, centre), native of Fairymount, who celebrated his 107th birthday last weekend, pictured last Sunday with Neil McGarry, nephew and carer (front row, left), Fr Michael Donnelly (front row, right), along with (back row) Cllr. Michael Scally; Godson, Austin Waldron and friend, Sean Browne at the Church where Michael was baptised, the Church of the Sacred Heart, Fairymount, Castlerea. Pic: Brian Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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€360k in CLÁR funding for eight Roscommon projects Almost €360,000 in funding has been announced for eight CLÁR projects in County Roscommon. On Friday last, Minister Heather Humphreys announced €6.2 million for CLÁR Measure 1 projects for schools and community projects across the country. Over 150 projects – such as AstroTurf pitches, playgrounds, sensory gardens, walking tracks, nature trails, outdoor performance spaces and community cafés – have been granted funding. In Roscommon, the recipients are as follows: Ballinagare Health & Leisure Centre (€50,000 for internal renovation work in community centre); Ballyleague Hall (€50,000 for internal renovation work in community centre); Ball-

intleva NS (€50,000 for installation of an AstroTurf pitch and ancillary site works); Castleplunkett Development Association (€50,000 for regeneration of the local amenity area); Ballintubber Development Association (€50,000 for purchase and installation of playground equipment); Tulsk National School (€50,000 for conversion of existing training pitch to an AstroTurf pitch); Ballaghaderreen Community Park (€32,760 to install extra drains, slit drains and spread sand on the field playing area); Moore Community Hall (€26,868 to complete the upgrading of car park facilities). Welcoming the funding, Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan said she is delighted to see €360,000 al-

located to community projects and volunteer groups across County Roscommon. Senator Dolan said: “These eight projects will bring so much to people living in these areas and it is fantastic news for so many community groups and their volunteers. I want to pay special thanks to the people who spend hours working on applications and with the team in Roscommon County Council. “Minister Heather Humphreys has made it her priority to ensure communities get a boost and we have won fantastic investment into the county under the Department of Rural and Community Development”. Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has also welcomed the funding.

Senator Murphy said: “It is fantastic that eight local projects in Roscommon have been included in the funding announced under the CLÁR programme. Supporting these projects is a key part of the Government’s policy for rural Ireland, Our Rural Future. “I know that the funding will make a big difference locally here in our communities. In total, there is €359,628 being provided to eight projects. “The funding will be welcomed by local groups that put in so much hard work here in Roscommon and it is important that we continue to support the hard work they are doing to make our communities the best they can be”.

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ST. PAUL’S

National School CASTLEREA • CO. ROSCOMMON IS NOW ENROLLING FOR SEPTEMBER 2024

St. Paul’s School works with boys from second to sixth class. • Highly qualified and experienced staff

• Situated in the town of Castlerea with access to local facilities such as the Demesne, Castlerea Library, Playground • LOW TEACHER-PUPIL RATIO ALLOWING FOR SPACIOUS CLASSROOMS. Sports Leagues, Green School, Active Flag, Digital School of Excellence, visiting artists, quiz teams, Discovery Science Awards, Tidy School winners, DEIS Resources and much more! Follow us on Facebook at stpaulsnscastlerea

Enrolment forms are available on request by Emailing: boysnscastlerea.ias@gmail.com or Telephone: 094 9620566

newsbriefs Parish Youth Mass this Saturday Pictured at last weekend’s Christmas Giving Tree Event, held at Castlerea Church, and organised by Happy Feet Childcare Ltd Afterschool Club, were Ashling Horan (Tarmon Afterschool Manager) – coordinator of the project – with her special helpers Fionn, Eibhlin, Jake, Emily, Aoife, Lauren, Ruth, Lily, Sean and Ignas, and Anita Flynn (owner of Happy Feet Childcare Ltd).

HANNONS HOTEL

Roscommon parish’s youth Mass will be celebrated at 7 pm on this Saturday, 20th of January 2024, in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. This Mass has been especially designed for young people, by young people, and everyone is invited to attend. As we start a new year the theme for our Mass is ‘NEW BEGINNINGS’.

A thank you from St Vincent de Paul St Coman’s Conference St Vincent de Paul St Coman’s Conference, Roscommon Town wish to thank most sincerely all who responded to their Christmas Appeal. Thank you for all monetary donations (both named and anonymous). Thanks to the various businesses and organisations for your support, and a special thank you to the pupils in the local schools who all gave so generously. As the demand for our services continue to grow, all contributions are appreciated. If you are in need of our help, please call 086-0741352, or written requests can be sent to 15 Castleview, Roscommon.

Roscommon LGFA Church gate collection

BEST WISHES TO ST. BRIGID’S GAA

HANNONS HOTEL, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TEL. 090 6637644, hannonshotel@gmail.com

Roscommon LGFA are holding their annual Church gate collection this weekend – January 20th and 21st – in County Roscommon. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople

FRANK

BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Delight at Holly’s return… and dancing with the (rugby) stars! Our man Frank enjoyed some live sports action and some varied TV on Sunday; He responds to a reader’s communication on Galway Cycling Campaign; Muses on Gardaí entry requirements (and Massey Fergusons)… It’s Sunday evening as I write, and I have just come back from watching our Creggs lads defeat Carrick-onShannon in a most enjoyable junior rugby league match up in Creggs. As the evening went on and became colder and colder, I found myself watching a little bit of television. First of all, I tuned into Manchester United against Tottenham Hotspur, and despite my almost lifelong devotion to the Reds (that’s Man Utd), I turned away from the game

after about twenty minutes. Funnily enough it wasn’t a terrible game – although Spurs seemed to me to dominate it (it ended in a 2-2 draw) – and would probably be one of United’s more entertaining performances of the season, particularly as they scored a couple of goals, but after thoroughly enjoying the effort, passion, and excitement of the rugby match in Creggs, I just couldn’t find anything to excite me in the performances of the overpaid, underperforming, socalled soccer superstars. From there, I went to Dancing with the Stars on RTÉ, and hard as I tried, I couldn’t find any stars. Of the eleven big names, I recognised only four – Davy Russell, Rory Cowan, Rosanna Davison and Eileen Dunne – and to call any of them a star, except retired jockey Russell, would certainly be stretching things. Just as with the soccer, I only watched little bits here and there, but

remarkably (considering how little I knew of most of the contestants) I actually enjoyed it. If I am not in Clifden next Sunday for the big cup rugby showdown between Connemara and Creggs (hopefully I will be), I might even tune in to what will be the first show where one of the dancers will be sent home. Then, thanks to the magic of the recording button, myself and Carol had a look at Dancing on Ice on ITV, and for both of us the main interest was to see the return to our TV screens of Holly Willoughby. In case you have lived on Mars or outer space for the last number of months, you may not have known that Ms Willoughby, whom I happen to really like as a TV presenter, took time off from all TV shows after police uncovered a plot to kidnap her. After three months away, this was to be her first appearance back on the big stage. In a simple message to her fans she

Holly Willoughby has returned to TV screens following a three-month absence, to present Dancing on Ice. At the start of the ITV show on Sunday, the presenter gave a “huge welcome” to her new co-host Stephen Mulhern, who replaces Phillip Schofield.

Avoiding Gardaí on the Massey Ferguson… It’s been a long time since I drove a tractor – a Massey Ferguson 135 that my uncle Mikey owned – and as I drove it that time at about the age of nine or ten, the last person I would want to have seen while doing so would be a member of the Garda Siochana. It wouldn’t matter anyway as I only drove it around Mikey’s farm and never on the roads, but as I read today’s papers, I am reminded how things have changed – both for guards and tractors – since those far-off days. Back then, to join the Gardaí, a male had to be at least 5’9”, whereas now there is no height requirement at all, although a new recruit has to be aerobically fit and have a proficiency in either Irish or English. Many is the smaller man who missed out on a career in the Gardaí because they weren’t tall enough, but from today, not only can a small fellow get in, he can also be accepted almost up to his 50th birthday! Mind you, the fact that Guards must retire at 60 might make it unattractive for 50 year olds as they will have only 10 years to pension age.

For women, the height limit of 5’5” has also been abolished, so hopefully we will see a lot more ladies join the force. Anyway, as I avoided the imaginary 5’9” Garda all those years ago on Mikey’s Ferguson tractor, which was powered by some type of a fuel called TVO that was withdrawn in 1974, little did I think that the cow dung that the cattle were depositing all around the place would one day actually power the modern tractor. And yet today, it is reckoned that in ten years’ time farmers will run their tractors on methane which will be harvested from slurry – it may only work for big farmers as it’s estimated you would need to have 700 cattle to produce enough gas to run an average tractor for ten hours every day for a year. However, it all shows how much things change over a person’s lifetime – I can’t begin to imagine what a Garda will look like in another sixty years, or even worse, what kind of dung will be powering our machinery. It doesn’t bear thinking about.

said “and so it begins” – which people are taking to mean she will be back. Anyway, I thought it all went well, and Holly appeared perfectly comfortable with her role along with her co-host and long-time friend Stephen Mulhern… though social media is already focusing on the fact that her voice was “distracted” (whatever that means). But after all she’s been through, I really hope she can get over the kidnap scare and quickly return to our morning TV schedule. As a happily retired OAP, I often find myself throwing an early morning eye on This Morning (that’s the name of her TV show) and I can honestly tell you that Holly’s presence does it no harm at all. As with our dancing show, I only watched bits of the performances, but it was great to see Holly back and I hope it’s not a one-off appearance. Before I leave the rugby match in Creggs, it was a game that was a

credit to two wholehearted teams, and for me the highlight was the intercept try from the halfway line, scored by my veteran (very) son Mark. It’s been many a year since he ran that far, and probably will be again. However, for us in Creggs, it was a great weekend of rugby, with the Junior One team beating Corinthians on Saturday evening by a single point to earn a place in the quarter-final of the Junior Cup, away – as I said earlier – to the Connemara All Blacks this Sunday. There were also underage and girls’ victories which I’m sure will be reported in the sports section of this paper, so all told it was a very successful weekend. The weekend was also notable for the return to our playing colours of Maurice Buckley, who despite living in London, plans to return each weekend to play for Creggs – maybe that’s the spirit that makes our little club such a great place to be part of.

A worthy initiative that can save lives In my piece of a fortnight ago, I told you how I passed out a cyclist on the Tuam road out of Galway, who, on a particularly dark, dreary, wet evening, was all dressed in black while cycling on a bicycle (him, not me) with no sign of any light or reflectors. I really couldn’t believe that anyone could be so careless and so stupid. Normally I would not expect much of a reaction from my reader(s) about such a piece, but it obviously hit a chord with one of them, because he went to the trouble of sending me a piece that he cut out of the corresponding edition of the Galway Advertiser. ‘Reminding people of the need for lights on your bike’ was the headline on the article and it told how the Galway Cycling Campaign were out distributing free lights to passing cyclists on a number of occasions this winter. Councillor Niall Murphy said he had been in meetings where Gardaí and officials had complained about the number of cyclists without lights, and he felt that it was better to give lights to them and to make them aware of their own responsibilities, rather than prosecuting and ultimately

fining them. I didn’t know that there is a law out there that requires a cyclist to have a light after dark (they should have to wear some hi-viz clothing as well), and obviously my Tuam Road cyclist didn’t either, or else choose to ignore it, but I have to say I applaud the Galway Campaign and maybe other counties could follow suit. In the meantime, if you cycle, make sure you can be seen by motorists – particularly during the winter months – wear your proper gear and have front and rear lights, and don’t join the ever-increasing number of cyclists

who are getting knocked down on our roads. Last year in Galway they distributed more than 500 pairs of lights, which, while very praiseworthy, suggests that more than 500 cyclists passed the Campaign Members without any lights. It’s a frightening number, so well done to those members who are giving up their own time to help make the roads around Galway safer, and if they have a spare few moments any time soon, maybe head out the Tuam road and give my friend a couple of free lights. It just might save his life.

And finally… As I see that there will be no 11.30 Mass in Kiltoom next Sunday to facilitate the parishioners who are travelling to the AllIreland final in Croke Park that afternoon, it reminded me of my young days when Fr Lohan was our parish priest. All masses took place at the scheduled time, but if his beloved Galway were playing a big match, you could be sure that Fr Lohan would have you out in less than 15 minutes. Under no circumstances would he miss any bit of the game. I am glad to see that Fr Logan’s legacy still lives on – and all I can do is wish St Brigid’s well and hope they bring home the cup!

for now ’Til next week, bye

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople Best wishes to St. Brigid’s!

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Monster Auction in aid of St Dominic’s GAA Get your bidding arms exercised and prepare to raise your bidding number high, as ‘Air of Mystery’ – aka Ann Murray and John Murray – are hosting a monster fundraising auction in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 27th of January at 9 pm sharp. This is in aid of the St Dominic’s GAA Club Lip Sync fundraising project. With an expected 60/70 lots, including a signed Roscommon jersey, sports vouchers, various annual local lotto tickets, agri supplies, livestock, fuel supplies, beauty and

meal vouchers, kids’ party vouchers and much, much more, it is undoubtedly going to create a great buzz around the village on the night. For anyone wishing to donate an auction lot in advance of the night, please contact Ann Murray on 086 3749149. A credit/debit card machine will be on site on the night to accept payment. All items will be shown on screen on the night, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, enjoy your drink and have a bid for a good cause.

Andrea, Michael, Conáll and Rhea Dooner cheering on Roscommon in the Connacht FBD League semi-final against London in the Connacht GAA Air Dome last Saturday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ballymurray National School is currently accepting enrolments for 2024/25. Enrolment forms are available from the Principal, Tom Gately at principal@ballymurrayns.com The school will hold an OPEN DAY on Thursday, February 1st, between 4 and 6 pm You are welcome to come and view the school and meet the staff Closing date for enrolments is February 27th, 2024

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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Five local community projects shortlisted for prestigious national awards Five local community projects, supported by Roscommon County Council, are among the shortlist of entries for the prestigious All Ireland Community and Council Awards 2024, hosted on behalf of the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA). The five shortlisted groups are ‘Roscommon Water Source’ in the Best Green Sustainable category, ‘Planning Roscommon Together’ in the Best Communications category, Ballyleague Resilience Park for Best Environmental project, Athleague village in the Best Town or Village Regeneration section, and Castlerea Rose Festival in the Best Irish Festival category. Enjoying a fantastic day for Nollaig na mBan at Knock House Hotel – with a nice afternoon tea, some lovely piano music, and some Bingo (plus a celebration of Rita’s birthday) were Maureen Dillon (Hawksford), Stephen Rogers (Deputy General Manager, Knock House), Annie Burke (Ballaghaderreen), and (front) Joy Smalley (Fairymount) and Rita Brunning (Tibohine).

The event, which is sponsored by IPB Insurance takes place on Saturday, February 17th, with a gala reception in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. ‘Roscommon Water Source’ is the umbrella name for an initiative whereby Roscommon County Council in collaboration with the National Federation of Group Water Scheme (NFGWS) engaged in a Source Protection Project over a number of group water schemes within the county. The ‘Let it Bee’ and ‘I’ve planted a tree and my garden is pesticide free’ was used as an education and awareness programme around the use of pesticides, herbicides in farming, the com-

munity and in the domestic gardens. Nominated in the Best Communications category, the ‘Planning Roscommon Together’ project is a unique and innovative initiative. In early 2023, Roscommon County Council brought together key Local Development Stakeholders to contribute to multiple local policies at the one time, including the PPN’s ‘County Vision for Wellbeing’ and Roscommon’s Age-Friendly Strategy. The benefit of rolling out coordinated consultations is that participants only have to contribute on one occasion, but by doing so they get to have their say on multiple local plans and strategies.

Athleague village has been nominated in the Best Town or Village Regeneration section. Supported by Roscommon County Council, the enhancement of the streetscape has delivered a range of benefits from economic development to enhanced community identity and environmental sustainability. The refurbished and improved community centre supports many classes, sports and social groups. The new Circle of Life Park is also having a hugely positive impact on Athleague as a recreational amenity, enabling the community to complete another action in its ‘masterplan’ first published in September 2019.

Recognised in the Best Environmental project, Ballyleague Resilience Park was part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme applied for by Roscommon County Council in partnership with Lough Ree Access For All CLG. €200,000 was allocated with additional matched funding provided by Roscommon County Council and Lough Ree Access For All. Honoured in the Best Irish Festivals category, Castlerea Rose Festival has grown significantly in recent years and is now recognised as one of the most successful and entertaining family festivals in the West of Ireland.

Crosby welcomes funding boost for local communities Councillor Tom Crosby has welcomed an announcement by Minister for Rural and Community Affairs Heather Humphreys that former garda stations, post offices, parish halls, restaurants, public houses, vacant sites and schools are set to be converted for community use under a scheme that will “breathe new life” into towns and villages. Minister Humphreys stated that €4.5m in funding will now be allocated for 24 projects under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, which she says will reduce dereliction and vacancy in rural communities. These buildings will then be developed for a range of community purposes. Councillor Crosby said he is “delighted” with this positive news which will benefit rural communities in particular and help turn rundown buildings into much-needed dwellings nationwide. The announcement represents the second year of investment under the Town and Vil-

lage Renewal Scheme’s Building Acquisition Measure, which is designed to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use in our town and village centres. The 2023 Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) supports the revitalisation of rural Ireland through a renewed focus on town centre economic and social vibrancy and regeneration, including tackling vacancy and dereliction in towns and villages. The scheme is administered through the local authorities, who are required to work closely with local communities and local businesses to develop and implement proposals that can make a lasting impact in revitalising rural towns and villages across the country. Cllr Crosby said this initiative will benefit families all over the country, while increasing tourism, investment and employment at the same time, thus benefiting the economy nationwide.

Roscommon’s Conor Cox pictured with young fans Caroline McDermott and Cathal, Michael and Cillian Greene after Roscommon’s victory over London in the Connacht FBD League semifinal last Saturday evening in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

GOING OUT

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

Joe Leyden pictured with Anastazia and Antonina Pliszka during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with Mary and Terry Leyden during Joe’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Terry Leyden pictured with his granddaughter Donata Roberto, his daughter Orla and Orla’s husband Paolo Roberto at Joe Leyden’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with his daughters-in-law Miranda Leyden (left) and Gill Thrift (right) during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with Eamonn and Mary Gleeson during Joe’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with his sons Paul and Kenneth during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with his brother Jimmy (left) and Jimmy’s wife Jean (standing), his daughter Caroline and son-in-law Keith during Joe’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with his grandchildren Oscar (left) and Sophia (right) during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Kathleen and Michael Neeley pictured with Joe Leyden during Joe’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with friends Nuala and Tom Costello during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joe Leyden pictured with Anthony and Sheila McDermott during his 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

FarmingPeople

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

Friday, 19th January at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers Also Dry Cows and Bullocks ----------------------

Tuesday, 23rd January at 4 p.m.

Opening Sale of Weanlings Including Special Entry of 30 In calf Cows & Heifers Bookings accepted until Thursday, 18th January at 5 p.m. ----------------------

Friday, 26th January at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Bullocks Also Dry Cows and Heifers

Bookings accepted until Monday, 22nd January at 5 p.m. ----------------------

Friday, 2nd February at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Breeding Heifers in conjunction with our Heifer Sale Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

Appeal to support inaugural Wear Our Wellies (WOW) Day Embrace FARM, Ireland’s only support network for farm families, is inviting everyone to join in the inaugural Embrace FARM Wear Our Wellies (WOW) Day on January 31st to raise vital funds for the organisation. Schools, businesses, groups, and individuals are encouraged to wear their wellies wherever they are on January 31st – be it the office, college, classroom, supermarket, or the main street! This unique fundraiser encourages those from both urban and rural communities to raise vital funds to support Irish farm families impacted by serious injury and sudden death. Embrace FARM is a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2014 by hus-

band and wife, Brian and Norma Rohan, following the tragic loss of Brian’s father Liam in a farming accident. From the first annual Remembrance Service in 2014, the network has expanded nationwide and evolved its services to meet the needs of Irish farm families in the aftermath of a serious injury and sudden death. The organisation has engaged more than 400 farm families with its comforting and supportive embrace along with practical support in the aftermath of a traumatic incident. Embrace FARM works with farm families by providing emotional and practical support to help farm families adjust to their ‘new normal’ after a trau-

L-R: Emily Rohan, Liam Rohan and Annie Griffin wore their wellies to launch Embrace FARM’s Wear Our Wellies (WOW) Day which will raise vital funds for the organisation. Groups and individuals are encouraged to wear their wellies wherever they are on January 31st.

matic incident. The funds raised will help Embrace FARM to continue to host events such as the Annual Remembrance Service, family and

widow bereavement weekends, and survivor support groups. It will also ensure that those in need can gain access to a team of mentors who specialise in the areas

Roscommon students learn about benefits of beef at BTYSTE 2024

Bookings accepted until Monday, 29nd January at 5 p.m. ----------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m.

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THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS 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.

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of counselling, legal, financial, and farm business. To register your WOW Day fundraiser, go to https://form.jotform. com/233173261722046

Adam Kane (ABP) and Sean Allen (student at Roscommon Community College, Ardnanagh, Co Roscommon) pictured recently at the ABP stand at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.

Roscommon MART WATCH There was a smaller entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s Sale of Bullocks and Heifers with 63 cattle on offer. Heifers fetched an average of €2.64 per kilo up to €3.19 per kilo and bullocks fetched an average of €2.37 up to €3.32 per kilo. There was also a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €1.15 per kilo up to €2.96 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside with online bidders also active. We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly Sale of Lambs and Cast Ewes. Prices for finished lambs made up to €162. The tops for stag ewes fetched €200. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID Tag set. Next sale of lambs and cast ewes is next Wednesday, January 24th at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am. All stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed live on www.livestock-live. com.

Sample prices for dry cows: LMX 790 Kg €2,340, LMX 745 Kg €2,060, LMX 770 Kg €1,900, CH 830 Kg €2,090, SIX 705 Kg €1,970, HEX 795 Kg €1,700, CHX 780 kg €2,060, CHX 810 Kg €1,900, LMX 765 Kg €1,850. Bullocks: HEX 775 Kg €2,280, AAX 610 Kg €1,550, LMX 465 kg €1,500, CHX 620 Kg €2,060, CHX 520 Kg €1,540, LMX 605 kg €1,590, CHX 560 Kg €1,620, HEX 585 kg €1,530, LMX 500 Kg €1,480. Heifers: LMX 705 Kg €2,250, LMX 690 kg €2,090, SI 575 Kg €1,670, LM 710 Kg €2,250, SIX 610 Kg €1,750, SIX 565 Kg €1,600, CHX 665 Kg €1,970, SI 580 Kg €1,680, CHX 555 Kg €1,500. Finished lambs: 56kgs €162, 58kgs €158, 54.7kgs €161, 55kgs €161, 50kgs €160, 54.7kgs €159, 49.2kgs €157, 49.1kgs €151, 47.3kgs €150, 46.6 kgs €144. Store lambs: 40.1kgs €127 40.8kgs €125, 42kgs €124, 41kgs €122, 38.6kgs €119. Cast ewes made from €72 to €200 per lot.

Students from Roscommon Community College, Ardnanagh, Co Roscommon, recently visited ABP’s stand at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024 at the RDS in Dublin. This marks the tenth consecutive year that the company has been involved in the event. ABP staff were on hand to discuss some of the benefits of beef with visitors. Attendees learned about some of the health benefits of eating beef, which is a source of protein and vitamins. The stand also showcased the sustainability credentials of Irish beef, and how its production supports communities all across the country. This year ABP was sponsoring the new Sustainable Farming Practices category at the exhibition. The company has extensive experience with research in Irish agriculture including its demonstration farm in Carlow, which aims to help beef farmers reduce their carbon emissions.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Farming/NewsPeople

IFA rejects Bord Bia clause on buying from QA farmers IFA Livestock chairperson Declan Hanrahan has said that during the ongoing discussions on the new Origin Green Producer Standard for all sectors, IFA had rejected any recommendation in relation to buying stock from QA farms. IFA’s clear stance on this issue is recorded in the Bord Bia discussion document. The IFA Livestock chairperson said this recommendation was discussed in detail at the TAC meeting in

September last year, where IFA set out its opposition to it and informed Bord Bia that failure to have this removed would result in IFA’s rejection of the entire Producer Standard for QA farms. He said the Origin Green Producer Standard is about action we take on our own farms and can never extend to interfering with the normal functioning of the competitive live market for cattle.

IFA Livestock chairperson Declan Hanrahan

Castlerea MART WATCH Sale on 11th of January: 350 lots presented for our first sale of 2024. Prices and trade were similar to preChristmas with quality lots tending to be improved. A good attendance of buyers were present anxious to source store cattle resulting in a great clearance. Heifers topped out at €2020 with bullocks making up to €1790. The dry cows peaked at €2400. The weanling rings noticed increased demand with the bulls peaking at €3.54 a kilo while the heifer weanlings made up to €3.63 a kilo. A selection of dairy cows made up to €1300, while suckler springers made up to €2520. The first of this year’s calves resulted in a full clearance.

Sample prices Bullocks: Lmx 480kgs €1570 Lm 445kgs €1490 AAx 465kgs €1330 Lmx 520kgs €1630 Lm 525kgs €1520 AA 595kgs €1700 AAx 595kgs €1670 AA 625kgs €1790 Aux 660kgs €1720. Heifers: Lmx 45kgs €1260 Ch 420kgs €1260 Lm 395kgs €1200 Lm 495kgs €1640 Lm 460kgs €1450 Lm 650kgs €2020 Lmx 520kgs €1750 Ch 575kgs €1690 Lm 525kgs €1590. Dry cows: Lm 845kgs €2400 Lm 840kgs €2370 Chx 825kgs €2200 Lm 745kgs €2140 Ch 810kgs €2080 Fr 455kgs €680 Fr 485kgs €700 AA 455kgs €780. Springer cows made from €970 to €2520. A selection of Friesian springing cows made from €880 to €1300. Calves: Young calves made from €200 to €350. Runners: Lots made from €400 to €810 for continentals. Weanling bulls: AAx 180kgs €590 Ch 270kgs €970 Ch 258kgs €930 Ch 215kgs €750 Lm 485kgs €1650 Ch 330kgs €1270 Ch 375kgs €1200 Lm 355kgs €1090. Weanling heifers: Lm 275kgs €1000 Ch 263kgs €850 Lm 265kgs €800 Ch 330kgs €1170 Ch 305kgs €1020 Lm 315kgs €900 Hex 270kgs €640. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday, the 18th of January with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Renters bearing brunt of bad government policies – Kerrane Roscommon-Galway Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has said that new figures from Eurostat illustrate how renters in Ireland are “bearing the brunt of bad government policies”. She said that Irish housing costs – including rents, house prices and utility costs – are the highest in the European Union. Deputy Kerrane said: “Renters and would-be house buyers are being badly let down by bad government policies, as highlighted once again in figures published last week by Eurostat. “Rents in Ireland have doubled since 2010 and housing costs in Ireland are now the highest in the EU. This is a damning indictment of government”. Deputy Kerrane made the point that Fine Gael have been in government for most of the period in question, and “Fianna Fáil have been propping them up for seven years”. She added: “The housing crisis continues to go from bad to worse on their watch; with rents at an all-time high and rising, and the government missing their social and affordable housing targets three years in a row.

Roscommon-Galway Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane

“Many people are losing hope of ever owning their own homes as they can’t put deposits together and house prices spiral further out of control”. Deputy Kerrane claimed that only Sinn Féin has a plan to tackle the housing crisis and stand up for renters by putting a full month’s rent back in every private renter’s pocket and increasing the supply of affordable properties to rent and buy.

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Marie Kilgarriff, Kathleen and Michael Neeley and John Kilgarriff pictured during Joe Leyden’s 85th birthday celebrations in Castlecoote Lodge last Saturday evening. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Local youths receive passes ‘to explore Europe’ Last week, 37 young people from Galway, Mayo and Roscommon received their free travel passes to explore Europe in 2024 under the DiscoverEU programme, the European Commission announced. DiscoverEU gives 18-year-old Europeans from all backgrounds the opportunity to travel across Europe, learn from other cultures, build new friendships with fellow Europeans, and explore

their European identity. 89 Dubliners are the largest group among the 407 lucky Irish winners who will also get a second pass for a friend to accompany them in their European travel adventures. The second largest bunch of Irish winners come from counties Wicklow, Kildare, Meath and Louth – 83, while Cork and Kerry together have 67 young European voyagers. In total, 768 18-year-

olds from Ireland applied for the free travel passes in early October 2023 in the current round of Discover EU. Across Europe, a total of 144 038 young applied and 36,318 of them won travel passes. They will travel mainly by rail between March 2024 and May 2025. The next round of DiscoverEU applications will open in April 2024. To be eligible, young people must be EU citizens or legal residents of the EU.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

NewsPeople

Aoife Shanahan, Sarah Fogarty and Ella Nally from Colaiste Chiaráin in Athlone pictured with their project ‘Fabulous Fodder – The answer is in the ground’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Callum Leech, Eoghan Morris and Jamie Lohan from Roscommon Community College with their project ‘Exploring Adolescent Digital Entrepreneurship: A study of participation on trading apps’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Pictured are Odin Fallon and Brian Geraghty from Roscommon CBS with their project ‘An investigation into the medicinal qualities of Myrica gale commonly known as bog myrtle’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Local students excel at BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024 (Below) Erin Hayes and Hollie ServisThorpe from Roscommon Community College pictured at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024 last weekend in the RDS Dublin with their project ‘Tagged Walls and Teenage Tales: Unveiling the secrets behind graffiti in secondary school bathrooms’. Pic: Fennell Photography

Therese Gunning, Legal Director BT Ireland presents the 1st Senior Individual Award in the Biological and Ecological Sciences Category to Sean Allen from Roscommon Community College for the project ‘Rooting for Sustainability: An exploration of more sustainable grassland nutrient management for a greener future’. Sean also won the Amgen Biological & Ecological Award for his project at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Therese Gunning, Legal Director BT Ireland presents the 2nd Intermediate Group Award in the Social & Behavioural Sciences Category to Callum Leech, Eoghan Morris and Jamie Lohan from Roscommon Community College for their project ‘Exploring Adolescent Digital Entrepreneurship: A Study Of Participation On Trading Apps’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Tadhg Carroll and Darragh Hoare from Scoil Mhuire in Strokestown with their project ‘A comparative study investigating the differences between the wellbeing of farmers versus non-farmers’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Therese Gunning, Legal Director BT Ireland presents the 2nd Senior Individual Award in the Social & Behavioural Sciences Category to Victoria Geraghty Scoil Mhuire in Strokestown for the project ‘A statistical study of the perceived stress levels of first year post primary students during their transition to post primary school’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Pic: Fennell Photography

Eyes on the prize Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen Conor Glass of Glen and Brian Stack of St Brigid’s pictured ahead of their teams’ meeting in the AIB All-Ireland Club Senior Football Championship Final this Sunday at 3.30 pm in Croke Park. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen

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Phone: 087 0664568 Email: cllrekelly@roscommoncoco.ie Facebook/Instagram/Twitter: Cllr Emer Kelly Best of luck to St.Brigid’s from

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St Brigid’s players Ronan Stack, Brian Stack and joint captains Paul McGrath and Mark Daly pictured at the All-Ireland final media night held in St Brigid’s clubhouse last week. Pic: Kieran Croghan

Joint captains Mark and Paul are ready to lead the charge at Croker < SEAMUS DUKE

Mark Daly and Paul McGrath are joint captains of St Brigid’s this season and the duo will be hoping to climb the steps of the Hogan Stand on Sunday and get their hands on the Andy Merrigan Cup. Both men were looking forward to the big day when they spoke to People Sport last week BEST OF LUCK TO ST.BRIGID’S FROM

What are your thoughts on the performance against Castlehaven? P McG: Overall we were happy with the performance. We did well in the opening period but we had a 15-minute lull after half-time and they got back into it. But they played well in the second half. We had a few lads that came off the bench (who made an impact) and we were able to close out the win. … and on the campaign overall so far? MD: I think that the Roscommon championship

Cllr. John

KEOGH

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council

Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 6440534 cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

Best wishes to St. Brigid’s team and management from

Cllr. Tony Ward

Nora and family

Tel: (090) 64 88294 or Mobile: (087) 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net Independent member of Roscommon County Council and a full time public representative.

really sets up teams to be competitive in the AllIreland series because it’s a very hard championship to win. After you win Roscommon you just take every game as it comes and you can take nothing for granted but here we are now in the final. How do you feel about the championship being played off as quickly as it is? P McG: I think it is better to play it off quickly the way they are doing it – from a players’ point of view. There are no long gaps between games. Even those five weeks over Christmas was hard to keep your mind on it. The two-week turnover is perfect, to be honest. How do you rate your opponents, Glen? MD: Ah look, Glen are very formidable opposition. We have been watching them in the championship for the past three or four years and they have been knocking on the door and have some household names in their team. We

will be up against it but we don’t really fear any team either. What are your thoughts on going into the final as underdogs? P McG: It’s a nice way to go into the match. It takes a bit of pressure off and we know that if we play to the best of our ability we have a great chance. How excited are you at the prospect of possibly repeating the feats of 2013? MD: The inspiration that this team have got from 2013 is huge. We all remember going to those matches as 12- and 13-year-olds and it has driven the club on. It’s a great achievement for everyone in the club to be there, and especially the underage coaches who have looked after us up along the way. There is 10 years of hard work done to bring us to this stage and hopefully it will pay off on Sunday.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen Best wishes to St. Brigid’s from

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Best wishes to St. Brigid’s from

Brian Stack of St Brigid’s pictured ahead of the AIB All-Ireland Club Senior Football Championship Final between Glen and St Brigid’s which takes place this Sunday at 3.30 pm in Croke Park. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

‘St Brigid’s have every chance!’ Seamus Duke got the views of four major GAA figures… Seamus Hayden (former Roscommon star) “I am giving St Brigid’s every chance. The powers that be and the bookies are not giving them a chance and that’s a great way to be going into an All-Ireland final. Brigid’s have a good team and as the old saying goes it’s all on the day. “If Brigid’s can play the way they did against Corofin and in the first half against Castlehaven for the entire 60 minutes, they will have every chance of a win”.

Marty McDermott (former Roscommon player & manager) “I am really looking forward to it. I remember well when this young Brigid’s team came to the fore in 2020 when they won the ‘Covid’ championship in Roscommon and they have progressed well since. They will be the outsiders

on Sunday – and deservedly so –but Brigid’s have a great chance with the team they have. “The narrative about Glen is that you have to win one to lose one, but Brigid’s defied the odds against Corofin and they were too strong for a good Castlehaven side so that will give them confidence. “I hope that we have a good day weatherwise because I think the open spaces will suit Brigid’s’ young team but Glen are a fine side with plenty of very strong county players on their side so I am expecting a very competitive game”.

Nigel Dineen (former Roscommon player) “I’m expecting a tight game and it could be a cagey affair early on. St Brigid’s will be up against it this time around. I think Glen will be the best team that they have played this year so far and the Derry side will go in as favourites. “The midfield battle will be crucial and Glen are especially strong in that department. They are also competent in defence and they can score as well so Brigid’s will have to bring their ‘A’ game on Sunday if they want to win it. “Glen will have revenge on their minds after last year so they will be a very hard team to

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overcome. But Brigid’s have had a great year and they are going in with a real chance”.

John O’Mahony (renowned former manager, including of St Brigid’s) “St Brigid’s will be going in as underdogs and anyone who knows me over the years knows that I like to go into a big game in that position. But it must be said that Glen are by far the best team that Brigid’s have met this year. “You just have to admire the transformation that St Brigid’s have made since they played Mohill in the Connacht Championship. They have been excellent in the Connacht final and in the All-Ireland semi-final. “In a final anything can happen, a black card, missed goal chances, or something that no one can predict, so Brigid’s are going in with every chance and I would not write off their chances at all. “Glen have to be the favourites after what happened to them last year and remember too that Malachy O’Rourke turned down the Derry job to stay with Glen so he feels there is unfinished business there. Glen are favourites, and rightly so, but Brigid’s have a chance”.

Kilglass Gaels GAA Club Best of luck to St. Brigid’s from

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen

7 interesting facts about Glen GAA Club

The official name of the Glen GAA Club is Watty Graham’s Gaelic Athletic Club. The ‘Glen’ name comes from the Irish translation. The club is based in and around the town of Maghera. After an amalgamation between two local clubs, the club was formed in 1948. The club is called Watty Graham’s after Watty (Walter) Graham who was a local Presbyterian and who inspired an uprising against English rule. When captured, he was executed in Maghera town on 16th June, 1798.

Glen are only recent guests at the top table of men’s club football within their own county, at Ulster level, and at national level. They have won only three Derry senior football championships (2021, 2022, 2023) and they have also won two Ulster championships (2022 and 2023).

The club are well known as being a ladies football powerhouse in Derry and have won

19 senior championships in the Oak Leaf County. Former notable players for Glen include Enda Gormley, who won an All-Ireland senior title with Derry in 1993, and who also won two All-Star awards. Damien McCusker was the Derry goalkeeper in that AllIreland win in 1993. Fergal McCusker, brother of Damien, was also on that Derry team in 1993. Seamus Lagan won All-Ireland minor and U-21 medals with Derry and also a Hogan Cup medal with St Columb’s College of Derry.

The Glen senior team are managed by Malachy O’Rourke, who is one of the most experienced managers in the game. The Fermanagh man has managed Fermanagh and Monaghan at inter-county level, and also led a number of prominent clubs before moving on to Glen in 2020. Since he took over, the club have won those three Derry titles and two Ulster crowns.

There were four Glen players on the Derry panel that won the Ulster SFC title in 2023, namely Conor Glass, Ethan Doherty, Ciaran McFaul and Conleth McGuckian. Emmett Bradley and Ethan Doherty have also played at underage level for Derry. Conor Glass is the current Derry team captain and he won an All-Star at midfield in 2022. He spent four years playing Australian Rules for Hawthorn where he won the ‘best first year player’ award in 2017. He returned to Ireland in 2021.

Glen were defeated by Kilmacud Crokes in the All-Ireland final in 2023 in controversial circumstances when Kilmacud finished the game with 16 men on the field. Initially Glen appealed the result and the CCCC of the GAA ordered a replay. However Kilmacud appealed that decision and then Glen withdrew their objection to the result and Kilmacud were awarded the title.

Best of luck to St. Brigid’s team and management from all at the

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen Best wishes to St. Brigid’s from

Vita House Abbey Street, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6625898 Email: info@vitahouse.org Best wishes to St. Brigid’s from all at

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Best wishes to St. Brigid’s from all at

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Church Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6625995 Dry Cleaning: Suits, pants, coats, jumpers, shirts, casual/ formal dresses, etc.

Jerome Stack, manager of St Brigid’s, pictured at the All-Ireland final media night held in St Brigid’s clubhouse last week. Pic: Kieran Croghan

‘This team love playing football and that will always carry a team a long way’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Listowel native Jerome Stack has led St Brigid’s into this All-Ireland final in his second year in charge of the Kiltoom-based team. He says that like a lot of the games in which his side have played this year, they have mixed the good with some patchy play – and that was certainly the case in the semi-final against Castlehaven. “Looking back it was a great win (the semifinal) but we have plenty of work to do. In most of the games we have played in this championship there were elements that we were very good at and more that we need to brush up on. But the challenge that we are facing in the final is a step up on anything we have had so far”. Jerome says that the team have come out of the semi-final with no injuries and all involved are preparing well for the big game this Sunday.

“Everyone is very well. It’s great to have no problems in that regard”. St Brigid’s went out of the game for a while against Castlehaven before coming strong again towards the end and their manager agrees that they will not be able to afford any such slackness against Glen. “I would say that while it looked like we were out of the game, we were still creating chances that we didn’t take. Momentum in football is so important and when you miss a few chances it takes away from that. There are plenty of things we can look at to improve, but I wouldn’t be over worried about that”. The fact that the young St Brigid’s team have coped very well with the pressure is a big asset to them as they prepare for Sunday’s game. “The younger players are full of energy, which is great to see. They just want to go out and play

but to be fair I couldn’t ask for any more from them. The one thing I have always said with this team is that they love playing football and that will always carry a team a long way. They want to practice and train and they are always trying to improve”. Looking at Glen, St Brigid’s’ opposition this weekend, Jerome agrees that they are the justified favourites for Sunday’s match. “If you asked any other club in Ireland would they like to be in our position they would take the hand off you. We are delighted to be there and any game we played this year we have had to dig deep and that won’t change on Sunday. It will be a big challenge for us. They (Glen) are probably the best team that we have played this year but that won’t change anything. We will go at it hard and let’s see what happens” he concluded.

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen

St Brigid’s face biggest test – but it’s one they are Cloonakilla NS capable of passing Best of luck to all of the St Brigid’s team and management from everyone here at the

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Conor Hand in action for St Brigid’s during the Roscommon SFC final against Boyle in Dr. Hyde Park last October. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

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It seems strange previewing an All-Ireland final at the end of January, but the players on both sides and the supporters will pass no heed on the timing of the game if they can win the Andy Merrigan Cup on Sunday. Glen – or Watty Graham’s Gaelic Athletic Club, which is their official name – will go into Sunday’s game as the warm favourites, but it may not be as straightforward as some people think. This St Brigid’s team are young and talented and if they can play to their full potential then we are in for a cracking game. The sporting Gods may well be on the side of the Derry men. They were narrowly beaten by Kilcoo in the Ulster final two years ago, and last year they were pipped by Kilmacud Crokes in an All-Ireland final that was mired in controversy. On that basis many will think that Glen’s time has come. But sport doesn’t work that way. If they are to win this All-Ireland they will have to go out and earn it on the day. Make no mistake, this is the biggest test that St Brigid’s have faced in the championship so far. The fact that it is so hard to win the Roscommon championship has stood to Jerome Stack’s men since they won the Fahey Cup by a single point against Boyle. Mohill gave Brigid’s as many headaches as they have faced so far in this championship, but it has to be said that the Roscommon champions were very impressive against Corofin in the Connacht final and indeed for most of the recent All-Ireland semi-final against Castlehaven. Looking at both sides ahead of Sunday’s encounter, the clash that is sticking out for me is the battle at midfield between Emmett Bradley and Conor Glass and Shane Cunnane and Eddie Nolan. Both Derry players are outstanding and Glass is arguably the best midfielder in the country (alongside Brian Fenton). St Brigid’s will have to

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AIB All-Ireland Club SFC final: St Brigid’s v Glen

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Evan Gallagher of St Brigid’s in action during the AIB All-Ireland SFC semi-final against Castlehaven in Semple Stadium. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

formulate a plan for that sector. The brilliant Brian Stack will probably be detailed to mark the Glen top scorer Danny Tallon, but he may also have to shadow the very talented Ethan Doherty, who is another Glen dangerman. While Conor Glass may get most of headlines for Glen, Ciaran McFaul has had a sensational year for them at centre half-back and his inspirational, driving play will have to be curtailed by Brigid’s on Sunday. He is a real leader on the Glen side. Brigid’s will need to be firing on all cylinders on Sunday. They went out of the game for about 20 minutes against Castlehaven, and if that happens on Sunday they will

be in bother. However, I have been really impressed with their young players up front who have stepped up to the mark in the last couple of games. In the semi-final against Castlehaven Ben O’Carroll was not having his usual scintillating impact, and others like Conor Hand, Brian Derwin, Ciaran Sugrue, Robbie Dolan and Bobby Nugent all stepped up to the mark. They will all be needed again on Sunday. Glen are a really good side but they are certainly not unbeatable. If Corofin were there on Sunday everyone would be giving them a favourite’s chance – and yet St Brigid’s beat them relatively comfortably in the Connacht final.

St Brigid’s have a very young team but every one of those lads are talented footballers. They will have to produce their best performance of the season if they are to win this game on Sunday. But they are well coached and have handled the big occasions well so far this year. I think the wide, open spaces in Croke Park will suit them if they can get their running game going. It’s hard to predict anything other than a win for the Derry men, but sport by its nature is unpredictable, and if St Brigid’s really turn up on the day I am giving them a great chance of repeating the heroics of 2013 and taking the cup back to Kiltoom. Prediction: St Brigid’s.

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One of the few playing links with the team that won the All-Ireland in 2013 is Ronan Stack who has been having another marvellous year with the club playing in the centre half-back position. “2013 seems like it’s so long ago now but to be back there with an almost new team is great for me and great for the club too” Ronan says.

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SD: So Ronan, when did you realise that St Brigid’s actually had a chance to go much further than winning in Roscommon? RS: I am not one to think too far ahead to be honest. Roscommon is always a tough championship to win so you can’t ever let your mind wander past that. Once we won in Roscommon you can have a go at the Con-

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very quickly – is that a positive or a negative? RS: Well you don’t have much time to think about it now. There are only two or three training sessions between the semi-final and the final but I think it’s better to keep the momentum going. But you have to switch your focus very quickly. SD: What are your thoughts on your opponents? RS: Glen were there last year (in the final) and they were very close to winning. I have seen a few of their games and they are a very well drilled team. It’s going to be a huge challenge for us. But we were unfancied in a few games already in this championship and we came out on top. We will prepare as hard as we can to put in a big performance in Croke Park. It’s great to be there and we are going up there to win the game on Sunday.

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nacht Championship and it was brilliant for us because we played in Hyde Park in each game. We had different challenges there – against Mohill and Corofin – and after that it was a case of managing Christmas and to try to keep the momentum going for the game against Castlehaven. It has been a great journey and we are at the last stop now. SD: So how did you rate the performance against Castlehaven? RS: I thought we started great and we played very well in the first half and (then) they got a point or two before half-time. We were still creating chances but we didn’t take them and they chipped away at our lead, but really in terms of scores we matched them in the second half and we finished strong which was a good sign of the character of the team. SD: The competition is now played off

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McDonnell relishing ‘buzz’ as spirit of 2013 returns Michael McDonnell, Chairperson of St Brigid’s GAA Club, pictured at the All-Ireland final media night held in St Brigid’s clubhouse last week. Pic: Kieran Croghan

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Being a part of the biggest game of the year is an honour that any club would dearly love to have, but being in a national final also inevitably means plenty of hard work behind the scenes. Chairperson Michael McDonnell has been involved with the St Brigid’s club for many years. “It’s a very busy time for everyone but it’s work that you don’t mind doing when you are in an All-Ireland final. It’s a great achievement to be there and we are very proud to be at that stage. “It’s hard to believe that it’s 11 years since we were in a final before but it’s a great feeling… there is a great buzz around the community and the parish and it’s where every club wants to be”. There are lots of logistics to think about off the field in preparation for the final. “Things like sponsorship, hotel arrangements, looking after the players, etc has to be done and

it’s all condensed into 13 or 14 days now with the new format of the championships. In times gone by you had a gap until mid-February and then to mid-March and you had time to run fundraisers, etc, but that’s gone now. “We had a very successful players’ sponsorship scheme in the run-up to the semi-final. We got great local support for that from here locally and from much further afield too and we have an idonate page running as well. “There is so much goodwill out there. That semi-final win has lifted the whole community and everyone wants to be associated with the team, which is great”. The fact that this is such a young St Brigid’s team that has reached an All-Ireland final reflects very well on the coaching structure in the club, as acknowledged by Michael. “Jerome Stack has mentioned to me many times that so much credit is due to the coaching that the club have done with players on the way up. Their skill levels are very high and we have

worked on that all the way up along. They are a young team but they have a lack of fear, which is great to see. They have been winners all the way up along and remember that a lot of these players will have played in four Connacht minor finals. So they are used to competing at the top level”. Michael agrees that St Brigid’s will be outsiders against Glen but says that there will be a huge support for the team on the day in Croke Park. “We know we will be underdogs. Glen have earned the right to be the favourites. They were narrowly beaten by Kilmacud last year and they have come back to beat them (in the recent semifinal). In fact they are in a similar position to us in 2013. “We eventually got over Crossmaglen and went on to win it after that. We know if we bring what we are capable of to the table we will not be far away. We will enjoy the occasion. We will savour it and hope we are good enough on the day to win it”.

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Frankie Dolan kicks a ‘45’ for St. Brigid’s during the 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC Final against Ballymun Kickhams. Pic: Andrew Fox

Senan Kilbride of St Brigid’s gets out in front of Ballymun Kickhams’ Seán George to gather possession during the 2013 AllIreland Club SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

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Darren Dolan, Karol Mannion and Frankie Dolan pictured celebrating after St Brigid’s won the 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

Basil Mannion and Cathal McHugh from St Brigid’s pictured celebrating after the final whistle of the 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

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The St Brigid’s team pictured ahead of their 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC final clash with Ballymun Kickhams from Dublin in Croke Park. Picture: Pic: Andrew Fox

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Joint captains of St Brigid’s, Gearoid Cunniffe and Darragh Donnelly, pictured lifting the Andy Merrigan Cup after the final whistle of the 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

Ian Kilbride of St Brigid’s repels Ballymun Kickhams’ Philly McMahon after McMahon’s attempted shoulder tackle during the 2013 All-Ireland Club SFC Final. Pic: Andrew Fox

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Business

Eugene Cummins is new Chair of Western Development Commission Former CEO of Roscommon County Council Eugene Cummins is the new Chairperson of the Western Development Commission. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, while also announcing a new board. Mr Cummins previously served as Chief Executive for Roscommon and Monaghan County Councils and has been selected for this role following a State Boards appointment process, which is managed by the Public Appointments Service. Minister Humphreys reappointed five ordinary members to the board – Ms Aisling Meehan, Ms Audrey Crummy, Ms Mary Coyne, Ms Mary McKenna and Ms

Sandra Nolan, and five new members – Ms Breda Fox, Mr Micheál Heaney, Mr Patrick Duffy, Mr Eoin Motherway and Mr Niall O’Donnellan. Mr Edmund Jennings also remains a member until his term expires in August 2024. Making the announcement, Minister Humphreys said: “The Western Development Commission has played an important role in promoting economic and social development in the Western region since it was established in 1999. “Over the past three years in particular, the WDC has established itself as an important contributor to the development of the region, supporting the objectives of Project Ireland 2040 to make Ireland a better country for all.

“The WDC has also made important contributions to the development of policy at national level in areas such as remote working, climate change and rural development. “I am delighted to welcome Mr Eugene Cummins, a former Chief Executive of both Roscommon and Monaghan County Councils, to take up the position of Chair of the Board, and I wish him well in that role”. Minister Humphreys added: “I want to also thank previous Board members, including Mr Gerry Finn, the Chair of the Board for the last three years, for their work in supporting the development of the Western region and their careful stewardship of the WDC over the last three years”.

Eugene Cummins is the new Chairperson of the Western Development Commission

Ireland call for Growth in Roscommon Fáilte Expressions of Interest for Tourism Learning employment openings Network Programme forecast to reach Linda is new Network Ireland 3% in 2024 Linda Codoul

President

Business support specialist Linda Codoul, a native of Kilkenny, has taken up the role of National President of Network Ireland 2024, following the group’s AGM at the weekend. She succeeds Kildare’s Emma Early Murphy and her aim for this year is to promote the growth of the organisation’s seventeen branches around the country. Linda spent ten years working in the banking sector before leaving in 2022 for an administration role with US healthcare company Abbott. She has a Masters in Management, a degree in Finance, and qualifications in Project Management and Relationship Manager Support. She joined Network Ireland in 2017 and was Kilkenny Branch President in 2021.

Employment opportunities are expected to grow by 3% in Roscommon during the course of 2024, according to leading recruitment company FRS Recruitment. This follows a disappointing 2023, when the number of opportunities in Roscommon declined by 6%. The positive outlook for the coming year is in line with FRS Recruitment’s national projections, with 8% growth also forecast for the country as a whole over the next twelve months. They are anticipating particularly strong demand for accounting, insurance, engineering, science, construction, cybersecurity and social care personnel on a national basis for the coming year. It is also expected that upward pressure on salaries in Roscommon and the rest of the country

will continue over the next twelve months, with the economy at full employment and cost of living challenges still being felt by local employees. The analysis is included in FRS Recruitment’s 2023 Review & 2024 Trend Forecast report. In total, over the course of 2023, FRS Recruitment advertised a total of 88,964 opportunities nationally. There was also a strong level of response from potential candidates to the openings that came on market, with FRS recording a 32% rise in the average number of applications received per opportunity. On a county by county basis, 20 of the 26 counties experienced a decline in job opportunities in 2023. Dublin and all the other main urban areas experienced a drop in the number of roles with Limerick

down 20%, Cork down 19% and Galway down 18%. Proportionately, the largest decline was experienced in Monaghan (down 51%). However, six counties did buck the national trend and recorded a rise in the number of opportunities in 2023. There was significant growth in activity in the north-west part of the country in particular, with the largest county by county increases occurring in Donegal (up 43%), Leitrim (up 40%), Mayo (up 36%) and Sligo (up 13%). Additional increases in the number of opportunities were also seen in Tipperary and Wicklow. The 2023 Review and 2024 Trend Forecast report is available on frsrecruitment.com.

Fáilte Ireland has launched an open call for Expressions of Interest for its Tourism Learning Network Programme as part of the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism & Placemaking Scheme for Ireland’s Midlands 20232026. This new Tourism Learning Network Programme is designed to build tourism business’ capabilities to help grow and future-proof their sustainable development. The programme is open to existing and new tourism businesses, public sector partners and individuals located within the EU Just Transition territory. It provides a unique opportunity for participants to benefit from a fully-funded programme of tailored professional development supports that enhances their tourism skillsets and supports the transition from employment in the peat or electricity production to a career in the tourism industry. The programme invites eligible tourism businesses that are just starting up, expanding a current tourism business, managing or working in a not-for-profit enterprise, charity, community or social tourism enterprise, public agency partners involved in recreation and public realm for tourists, and previous employees of ESB Networks or Bord na Móna, involved in electricity production or peat harvesting, planning a new career in tourism. Expressions of Interest for the Tourism Learning Network Programme will be accepted from today until Thursday, 22nd of February 2024. Applications will be assessed by Fáilte Ireland, who will provide guidance on the programme and offer direct support. Applicants can find more information and complete an Expression of Interest at www.failteireland.ie

A full-service current account from Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union ADVERTORIAL

The new Current Account from Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union includes a globally accepted Debit Card with Contactless Payments, Standing Orders, Direct Debits, and the option of an Overdraft facility. Members of the credit union can now open a Current Account online or in any of our offices in Irishtown, Monksland (Athlone) or Castlerea. New members are always welcome

and the Current Account is also available to new members. This is good news for Credit Union members and for consumers in general who have limited choice at present. Credit Unions are seen to offer something different to the major banks in terms of their personal touch and are considered trustworthy. The new Current Account has simple and transparent pricing. A low

monthly fee of €4.00 applies and that covers unlimited euro point of sale and contactless transactions, unlimited mobile and online banking and unlimited standing orders and direct debit processing and up to five ATM withdrawals per month. Students can avail of a fee free current account. Full details of fees and charges are available on www.accu.ie. Speaking about the Current Account

from Athlone & Castlerea Credit Union, Michael Evans, CEO said: “Credit Union members with savings and loans are now able to get a competitive Current Account from their trusted Credit Union, and they will no longer need to go to a bank to get this service. “For the first time, your Credit Union will be able to provide our members with a real choice for their day-today financial needs. And this service,

which will be accessible globally and digitally, will enable your Credit Union to become even more relevant to our members in the ever-increasing digital world”. Information on the new Current Account from your Credit Union is available at www.accu.ie or you can drop into any of our offices in Irishtown, Monksland or Castlerea (see advertisement on page 1).

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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Remax Team Earley close sale on three new homes at Oldwood This week, Remax Team Earley are delighted to announce that they have closed the sale of three two-storey, three-bedroomed, semi-detached residences at Oldwood, Roscommon Town. These said properties offered a BER rating of A2 each and were finished to a high standard throughout. Comprising approximately 1200 square feet, features include a luxurious-style finish throughout.

Kiltoom and Castlesampson lands for Online Auction on 25th of January

Connaughton Auctioneers are holding their first Online Auction of 2024 on Thursday, 25th of January at 3 pm where two properties are offered for sale under the hammer. First up is a prime parcel of lands comprising Lot 1: c. 14.55 acres at Ardmullan, Kiltoom, all being of excellent quality and located in renowned farming district. Situated just off the Kiltoom to Curraghboy road, these lands hold huge potential for building sites (having previously being granted but since expired) and hold commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Standing on the lands are a pen and crush with mains water servicing.

Lot 2 for auction on the day includes c. 1.63 acres of Boglands at Castlesampson, Athlone, comprising a prime turf bank. Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton states: “We look forward to continue our partnership with Livestock Live (LSL) Platform for Online Auctions in 2024. Farmers are very aware of how to use the system and we always assist first-time users with a demo. “The system is very transparent. Bidders must have registered in advance, pay a deposit that is refundable in full if they do not purchase and authorise the auctioneer to sign contracts on their behalf if the successful bidder. “As with all Online Auctions, I highly recommend making contact with our

office before Auction Day to ensure you are familiar with how the Online Auction process works. “The two lots for offer on 25th of January at 3 pm are both top quality with the 14.55 acres at Ardmullan, Kiltoom ideal for local farmers wishing to extend their existing holding and the 1.63 acres of Boglands in Castlesampson ideal for any owner of bog with spread ground at that location”. For all legal enquiries on the Online Auction on 25th of January, contact the solicitor for carriage of sale – Sean Mahon (Solicitor) of Mahon Sweeney Solicitors, Roscommon Town (Tel: 0906627350), or Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700.

These newly-built executive homes qualified for Help To Buy scheme. Watch out soon for the launch of four-bedroomed, semi-detached residences. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact Remax Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090 66 26579, email teamearley@remax. ie, or log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith on 086 0848590.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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“Your Success is Our Business” Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders • Partnerships Specialising in: • Payroll • PAYE & PRSI • VAT • Annual Accounts • Start Ups • Business Mentoring FREE First Consultation

Web: www.mcgowanaccountancy.com Email: nuala@mcgowanaccountancy.com OFFICE: 090 66 25818 MOBILE: 086 0352849

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS < ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42 RP21 (1st Floor). Meetings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Chimney Cleaning

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

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

087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Accounts, Vat, Payroll, Business Services Revenue Returns, Staff Accounts Handbooks, Employee Contracts, Vat Human Resource Policies and Payroll Procedures, Mediation and Coaching. Revenue Returns

CONTACT BREDA ONStaﬀ086 8033783 Handbooks or email: breda@bmjbs.com Employee Contracts www.bmjbs.com Human Resource Policies and Procedures Human Resource Services

Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

CONSTRUCTION

VHI and Laya Covered

Construction l General Building

l Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations l Chimney CCTV

Inspections l Chimney Repair

- Insurance Claims

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

FENCING/GATES

GARDENING

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

Des Kelly Fencing

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

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

Stephen Casey

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

Professional and friendly Media>on and Coaching footcare in the comfort of your ontact Breda on 086 8033783 or email: breda@bmjbs.com own home. www.bmjbs.com

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

NO FIX NO FEE

PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

BMJ BUSINESS SERVICES

Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts.

COUNSELLING

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

Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www psychotherapy glynisdowney.com

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

Over 30 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on

087 2346364

FOR SALE < TYRES FOR SALE: 195/65/15 fitted at €50, 205/55/16 fitted at €50. Van tyres 205/65/16 fitted at €65. Jeep tyres 265/65/17 fitted €90. All other sizes available to order, call for details. Phone: 083 2012390 < FOR SALE: Pale grey material 2 seater reclining settee and reclining chair. Perfect condition, 6 months old, as new (has been kept covered) €750 o.n.o. Phone: 086 7313961 < FOR SALE: 12 x 8 Steel Tipping Trailer, new ram and new wheels also bale slicer, and tonne bag of timber. Phone: 087 7733181

GARDENING

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

Phone John on

087 2860428

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

l l

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

Tel: 087 2172281

GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

JOE HEALY

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

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

Trees & Hedging

Tree Services

087 2721193 GATELY GARDENING

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

Tommy’s

FOR SALE We supply all types of trees and hedging, Laurel, Beech, Whitethorn, Oak, Elder Birch, Dog rose, Gelder Rose, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Holly. Suitable for ACRES & GLAS Scheme and REPS Scheme. Can be delivered Card payment accepted. Phone: 087 4177148

GRINDS/TUITION

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

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

< LEAVING CERT BIOLOGY GRINDS: Experienced Science and Biology Teacher - Roscommon Town. In depth revision of exam topics. Comprehensive revision notes. Exam Question Strategy. Contact: 087 7708169 < MATHS GRINDS: All Levels. Experienced Tutor. 1-to-1 and small groups possible. Call/Text/Whatsapp Coman: 085 706 3536 < QUALIFIED PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER available for home tuition. Five years teaching and tuition experience teaching all classes levels at different stages. Also have experience tutoring Leaving Cert students with Irish Oral preparation. Please contact 0872796972 for more information.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Richard Clements intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct domestic garage/ store to enclose existing front porch, associated site development works and services at Derrane Road, Derrane, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Marie Finneran intend to apply for retention permission for development at Derryglad, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon, N37 EW26. The development will consist of (a) retention permission for an existing septic tank & percolation area, (b) retention permission for a 2 bedroom timber framed house located at an existing dwellinghouse & associated siteworks.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL MSL Ventures Ltd intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to complete phase 3 within existing development to include 8 no semi detached two storey dwellings on sites 7-14, 2 no single storey detached bungalows on sites 15 and 20, associated site development works and services at Srah, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Tom Clyne am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to upgrade existing treatment system by installing new treatment and polishing filter and all ancillary site development works at Cloonfinlough, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, F42 FK28.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Full Planning Permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for a Farm Road on my lands at Turlough T.D. Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John James Greene, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Lakeview Service Station, Ballyclare, Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon, N39 A9T1. The development will consist of: (1) The demolition of existing derelict buildings & forecourt, (2) Decommission existing underground fuel tanks and associated works, (3) Erection of 1no. part single / part two storey commercial building comprising a creche, digital hub/training centre, (4) Alterations to the site layout and all ancillary site works including parking, bicycle stands and landscaping. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Gerard Greene and Bernadette Shortall would like to apply for planning permission and outline permission for proposed development at Barry More, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon. Planning permission is sought for construction of 4no. 5-bed, 2 storey detached dwellings and all associated ancillary site works to include new vehicular and pedestrian site entrance, widening of existing approach road, and connection to the existing services. Outline permission is sought for construction of 17 detached dwellings, 1no. detached guest house and all associated ancillary site works together with a new woodland walkway/ cycleway adjacent to the existing public road.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974. Mobile: 086 8115449

Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St., Roscommon. Phone: (087) 2222874

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Roscommon County Council I, Niamh O’Donohue, intend to apply for permission for development at site at Hodson Bay, Athlone, County Roscommon. The development will consist of erection of single storey dwelling with associated ancillary site works, single storey outbuilding and new proposed site entrance with new gates and piers.

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, Arad an Chontae, Roscommon, County 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 of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt, by Roscommon Country Council, of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. Signed: Niamh O’Donohue

To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us! The most read newspaper in county roscommon!

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974. Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION Name of Applicant: Hubert Maxwell Ref. Number of the Application: PD/23/187 Development at: Drummin, Peak, Tullaghan and Gortnagoyne Townlands, Bellanagare, Co. Roscommon The development applied for consisted of: The extraction and processing of limestone aggregate (quarry extraction area of 1.7 Ha.), to a depth of 83 mOD, for a 7 year period and all ancillary activities. Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development 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.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought from Roscommon County Council for the following development: To construct a single storey dwelling house, provide mechanical effluent treatment unit and percolation area, provide new site entrance and access road including all ancillary site works necessary to complete the development at Dereenavoggy, Arigna, Co. Roscommon for Mr. Michael Cottle. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, within a period of five 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: FM Design, 10 Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1JQ Tel +44 7768 326392 email: fmdesign@btinternet.com

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 6PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

Signed: Michael Beattie The planning application may be

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Chris Hurley intend to apply for permission for development at Culliagharny, Creagh, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, H53 H2V1. The development will consist of the construction of a waste water treatment system & associated siteworks at an existing dwellinghouse. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. 2 Cherryside Business Park, Castle St., Roscommon. Phone: (087) 2222874

Signed: John James Greene c/o Michael Fitzpatrick Architects MRIAI, Main Street, Butlersbridge, Co. Cavan Tel: 049 4365800

The

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such 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: MMKDA Consulting Engineers (A) 7 Main Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 X5K7 (M) 089 213 58 04 (T) 090 649 33 88 www.mmkda.com

Business Directory

.ie

! E V I L NOW

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

www.lookitup.ie

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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

USEFUL SERVICES PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387

083 0684011

< FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Excellent quality hardwood, Birch, Ash etc. 8x5 car trailer loads, tractor trailer loads and bags also available. Size cut to order. Also turf available. Call after 5pm 085 7848606

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

PLUMBING

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 PLANT HIRE & GROUNDWORKS

086 2437376

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

PODIATRIST

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

For all foot ailments

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

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

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

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214 Tel:

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

REFLEXOLOGY

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

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

Ballintober, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45Y320

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

Tar & Chip Driveways

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

086 895 3884 Call Padraic for concreting

085 226 4664

Phone: 086 - 8944363 or 086 - 0872166

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

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

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

Benefits:

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

Gift Vouchers Available

Tel: 087 2264951

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

Electrician Available

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

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

DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

WE DO ANYTHING

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

to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ... From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 9373445 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

PERSONAL NOTICE LADY IN HER 40s – divorced – would like to meet a gentleman – aged between 46 and 57 years old – for friendship/relationship. Must be honest, kind and have a good sense of humour. Genuine people only apply please. Reply to Box no. 3095, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon town, Co. Roscommon

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Contact Mike on 087 2392139 at

USEFUL SERVICES

094 9620009

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

Professional Tiler available

Kilroe Tiling

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

Reflexology

TILER

USEFUL SERVICES

Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd

Sarah Fleming

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

Tullys Podiatrist/Chiropodist

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

TOP QUALITY TURF

USEFUL SERVICES

PODIATRIST

<SOCIAL DANCING: Continues every Friday night in An Bothar Rua, Elphin with live music. This Friday night 19th January with Nigel Livingstone, dance 9.00pm til late. Tel. 087 9809432 <LINE DANCING: In Quad Centre, Roscommon every Friday at 11.15am and Sunday at 6pm also in Four Mile House on Tuesday at 7pm with Jive classes at 9pm. Contact Christopher: 086 8474744

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!

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

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

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

TREE SHEARING

087 9657933

or 090 66 33084

GRINDS

REVISION COURSES Junior and Leaving Cert HL

l Tree Shearing l Tree Felling

l Dangerous Tree Removed

(Commercial & Domestic)

Harpur Bros, Castlecole,

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

For further information

Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 AtYourServiceEXTRA USEFUL SERVICES

CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

FOR ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

KEEN RATES

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022

ALPHA ROOFING

Richie Dooner

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE

Carpentry & Construction Slatta, Kilglass, Roscommon

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

Phone: 083 1628531 Email: richarddooner@yahoo.ie

Roof Repairs

Focus360 KITCHENS

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

ROOFING

KITCHENS

ROOFING

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

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

Call/WhatsApp DAVID 083 069 5820 RECYCLING

PMC Painting Contractors

Commercial & Residential

Our Services: • Sealing all Gutters • Replacing Slates • General Roof Repairs (Leaks) • Sealing and Cleaning Gutters and Facia, Soffits and Timber in Roofs l Free Callout l Good Rates < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802.

Phone:

089 9899912

10%

Discount with this advert.

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

CALL MICHAEL ON

089 966 1849

APPLICANT FOR GARDA SIOCHANA INTERESTED IN BEING AN APPLICANT FOR AN GARDA SIOCHANA?

24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service l New roofs, all roofing & flatroof repairs l Dry Verge Repointing l Package deal on Roofing restoration, cleaning, moss removal, replace broken tiles l Gutters/Facia & Soffitts l Chimney Repairs, Lead Flashing repairs l Patio Services, Powerwashing, Drains and Footpaths l Painting & Decorating l Renovations, Porches, Walls & Garden Design l Barn repairs & farm painting

Tel: 087 6117326 ROOFING

NASHVILLE ROOFING

Alan O’Toole

WINDOW CLEANING

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

087 9795226

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

086 4679798

I am a retired member of An Garda Siochana since November 2023 having spent twenty years in internal Garda Training and Student / Probationer advancement. Training and Education can be provided by us in the following: l Preparation of initial application form. l Stage (1) Application (online) l Stage (2 ) Application (At Public Service Commission) l Interview preparation for final assessment. l Assistance with Physical testing on Stage 4 l Blended learning on training both online and classroom. l Top class venue available for classroom training. l Available on details listed below during competition on a seven day 24 hour basis. l Ongoing advice and mentoring.

Carpenter Available

Company website

nashvilleroofing.ie

THE 2024 GARDA RECRUITMENT GARDA CAMPAIGN IS DUE TO BE ANNOUNCED ON JANUARY 15TH 2024. Our Services: • Roof cleaning • Roof repair • New roofs • Lead valleys • New pvc gutters fascia soffit • Gutter repairs • Chimney repairs Contact Liam at

email: roofingcontractors96@gmail.com

Phone: 083 1479301

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

Doors l Floors l Stairs l Wall Panelling Glenamaddy/ l

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

Roscommon area Over 30 years experience

Phone Tommy

086 8934576

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

VETERINARY

GROUND WORKS

Call or contact (087) 6339725 Gerry or gergac@eircom.net Qualified and experienced Roscommon based Training Provider. This a private training provider and is not associated with any State Body

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

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

Telephone Ger: 086 8745180

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

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

AtYourService BLINDS

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

DOORS/ WINDOWS SERVICE

Chris’s Window Service

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon F42 W294

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Mobile:

086 8115928 CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Telephone: 090 66 33026

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

CARS

LIFE COACHING

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

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

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

FARMING

- CCTV Camera Inspection

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

Tel: 087 0944027

CARPENTRY & FITTED FURNITURE

INSULATION

Aodhgan Cashin

Ballybride, Roscommon F42 EC59

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CLEANING

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Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HOARE Monika 19 Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (15th Anniversary)

NEARY (née Burke) Kathleen

HOARE Jerry

Clooncullane, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. 21st January 2023. (1st Anniversary)

3 Ard Comain, Henry Street, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

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

Treasured memories of a loving wife, mother and sister who passed away on 19th January 2009 You are gone, but thank you for all these soft sweet things you have left behind in our homes in our heads in our hearts. Loved dearly and never forgotten by Harry and daughters Martha and Beth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA Time can not heal the heartache or stop the silent tear. It won’t take away the memories of one we love so dear. Missing you always. Your sisters Mary, Camilla and families. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA Death takes the body, our minds holds the memories, our hearts keep the love, our faith lets us know, we’ll meet again. Loved and missed by your sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday, 3rd February at 10am in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

On Kathleen’s First Anniversary, John, Elaine, Dermot, Coman and Brendan, together with the extended Neary and Burke families, wish to express sincere gratitude for all the sympathy, support, and kindness shown to us following our sad and sudden loss. A special word of thanks to the kind staff of the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon, together with Dr. Robinson and Dr. Crosbie, who cared so well for Mam during her time with them. To relatives, neighbours, friends, and well-wishers, who attended Mam’s Funeral, or watched the on-line Mass, our heartfelt thanks. We are deeply grateful to all who travelled long distances, telephoned, sent cards, floral tributes, and posted on-line messages of condolences, or who paid respects in other ways. Thanks to all those who took part in the Funeral service, especially Fr. Stephen, Fr. Ciaran Whitney and Fr. John Joe Gannon. Also, Carmel McLoughlin, for the beautiful singing, and those who prepared Mam’s final resting place. Sincere gratitude to Cathal and Mary Brady, for their professional and sensitive handling of Mam’s Funeral arrangements. To everyone who helped us in any way, thank you sincerely. As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. A silent thought, a quiet prayer, for a special person in God’s care. Kathleen’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin on Sunday, 21st January 2024 at 11.30am.

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. Never known to fail. Special thanks also to St. Jude, Our Lady, Blessed Michael, St. Anthony and St. Rapheal. K.D.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask you for this special one. (mention favour). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your broken heart so that when your father sees it, it will become your own favour, not mine. Repeat three times daily, for three days, promise publication. I.W.

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

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. J.C.

GRATEFUL THANKS Grateful thanks to Sacred Heart, Holy Spirit, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, St. Anthony, Padre Pio, Fr. Charles, St. Walburga, Holy souls for many favours received. E.L.

My darling husband, when I lost you ten years ago I lost part of myself, but I think you would know I have tried my best to muddle along but it cannot be the same now you’re gone. So on this day as I do every year I hope you can see just how much I care and until we meet again my love just keep watching me from your cloud above.

MALONE Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon

Always remembered and loved by your heartbroken wife Kathleen. Losing our Dad was our rock shattered, we may no longer have been children but oh how Dad mattered. Our foundations are shaky and we wobble and fall. So when this day arrives each year we do our best to show how we still care we hope Dad knew how much he was loved and that he is looking down on us.

Always remembered and loved by his heartbroken children. You made us smile, you made us laugh, it lasted for a while, but now it’s just the past. We see your face and want to cry, our love for you will never die. We care about you in our hearts, we’ll love you always even now we are apart. You gave us sweets, you gave us money, but only your love is sweeter than honey. We love you always as you can see, you’re the best grandad there will ever be.

Kathleen

James (Jimmy)

(4th Anniversary)

(18th Anniversary)

Will those who think of them today, a little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered by all the family. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Church of The Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Saturday, 20th January at 7pm.

MONTH’S MIND MASS Mattimoe Marian Main St, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Died 18th December 2023

Always loved and remembered your heartbroken grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 25th January at 11am.

KENNY Darragh Late of Gort, Lecarrow (11th Anniversary) Died 15th January 2013

In loving memory of Darragh Kenny DARRAGH You left us quietly your thoughts unknown but left us memories we are proud to own. So treasure him Lord in Your garden of rest because here on Earth he was one of the best. Sadly missed by Liam, Fidelma, Catriona, Sarah, Michael and Ciara. Anniversary Mass in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 21st January at 11.30am.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Marian’s brother Patrick, niece Emer, nephews John, Cathal, Barry and Brian, sister-in-law Marion and the extended family would like to express our sincere thanks for the huge outpouring of support shown to the family on the sad occasion of Marian’s sudden passing. Our heartfelt thanks to all those who travelled long distances, telephoned, sent Mass cards, floral tributes, messages of sympathy, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. Thanks to Fr. Jonas Rebamontan and Fr. Gerry Hanly who joined us for the Funeral Mass and Removal and to Michael Harrington for the beautiful music and singing in the Church. Thanks to Michael Sweeney at Sweeney Funeral Directors for his guidance, support and professionalism and to the grave digger Peter Conroy who prepared Marian’s final resting place. Thanks to Gardai Niall Brennan, Seamus Kelly, Tony Brennan, Tania Duffy for their assistance during this sad time. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all of your intentions. Marian’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Boyle on Saturday, 20th January 2024 at 10am.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KEEGAN Paddy

MANNION Martin

Beechwood, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon

Treasured memories of Martin who passed away on 22nd January 2021.

In loving memory of Paddy who passed away on 21st January 2019 (5th Anniversary)

Will those who think of Paddy today a little prayer to Jesus say. Lovingly remembered by Kathleen, Maura, Bernie, Richard and Eric Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday, 21st January at 10am. Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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

MAYOCK (nee Murray) Ann Clare, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

BOSQUETTE MAISIE

MULLANEY John and Mary Jo

Ballyhammon, Strokestown. Who passed away on the 22nd January, 2023. (1st Anniversary)

(35th and 9th Anniversary)

Rathconnor, Four Mile House

(3rd Anniversary)

Toberroe, Glinsk Co. Galway. Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts, you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, we miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, we who love you will never forget. Loved and missed every day by his wife Anne, daughters Christina and Bernadette, son Damien, his mother Mary, his brothers, his sisters and extended family. Martin’s Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday, 21st of January 2024 in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk at 10am.

CURLEY Josie Castlestrange, Fuerty, Roscommon Whose 10th Anniversary occured on 18th January 2024

In loving memory of Ann who passed away on 21st January 2021

It does not take a special day to bring you back to mind. For a day without a thought of you is very hard to find. You were very special, generous, kind and true, you will never be forgotten, we thought the world of you. Loved and rememberd always by your sisters, brother, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Four Mile House, on Sunday, 21st January at 11am. Rest In Peace

TIGHE Philomena Glinsk, Castlerea (24th Anniversary)

We, the family of the late Maisie Bosquette would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the kindness, support and sympathy shown to us on the loss of our beloved mother. Sincere thanks to Fr. J. Carroll, Fr. E. O’Connor, Fr. J. McManus, Fr. C. Whitney, Fr. U. Naughton and Fr. Vincent Atueyi for concelebrating her Funeral Mass. A special word of thanks to Pat and Marian McHugh and family for all their professionalism over the course of the Funeral. Thanks to Dr. H O’Donnell and Dr. C McHugh, and also Mary Parker and her team and the administration staff at Strokestown Health Centre. Thanks also to the McAuliffe Pharmacy and the McDonnell Pharmacy. A word of thanks to Professor Walsh and his team at Roscommon Outpatients Dept.. We would especially like to thank Ms. Claire Keane and William and Margaret Treacy at Roscommon Civil Defence. Thank you to Sligo University Hospital staff and the chaplain Fr. Martin Andama who tended so well to Mammy in her final days. Our thanks to Strokestown Choir and Hugh Collins for his accompaniment at the Requiem Mass. Thank you Coman Shiel for traffic management at Newtown. Sincere gratitude to Martin Lavin for his excellent preparations and marshalling at Bumlin cemetery. Thanks to the teams who carried Mammy’s coffin to the graveside. Also the grave diggers and those who prepared her final resting place. A special word of thanks to Mary and Mike Snype for their beautiful floral arrangements. Thanks too, to the Percy French Hotel for the lovely food provided. We thank those who phoned and those who visited Mammy while she was ill. Thanks to all who visited the house and the funeral parlour, those who sent condolence messages, texts, emails, sympathy cards and Mass cards, those who viewed Mass online and those who travelled long distances. Special mention to those who provided refreshments, the great neighbours and friends. Thanks to all who helped in so many many different ways and those who have contacted us in the past year. Thanks very much to those who made a contribution to Roscommon Civil Defence. As it would be impossible to thank all individually, please accept this acknowledgement of our appreciation and gratitude. Masses offered for your intentions. Maisie’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, the 21st of January, at 11.30am, in the Parish Church, Strokestown. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, So loved, so missed, so very dear.

In loving memory of our dear father John who died on the 14th October 1988 and our dear mother Mary Jo who died on the 19th January 2015 Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. Sadly missed by their daughters, sons, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Four Mile House Church on Sunday, 21st January at 11am.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

BOSQUETTE Ballyhammon, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

In loving memory of our beloved mother Josie Curley, Castlestrange, Fuerty, who passed away on 18th January 2014 R.I.P. As each day dawns we think of you As each night falls we pray for you and in between no matter where deep in our hearts You’re always there. Always loved and remembered by all your loving family.

In loving memory of Philomena who died on the 22nd January 2000

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do, a special place within our hearts is always kept for you. Rest In Peace Always remembered by her family. Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday, 21st January at 10am.

LOCALLY OWNED ... IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

MAISIE

JOHNNY

(33rd Anniversary) (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Maisie, who passed away on January 22nd 2023, and her husband Johnny, who passed away on Feburary 22nd 1991. Also remembering their son Kieran (Aged 9), who died on May 6th 1978. Beautiful memories are wonderful things, they last ‘til the longest day, They never wear out, they never get lost, and can never be given away. To some you may be forgotten, to others a part of the past, but to us who loved and lost you, your memory will always last. Forever in our hearts.... Sadly missed by their loving family.

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

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Classifieds

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Nancy

SHEA Sonny

GATELY Dara

Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on 9th January, 2023 (1st Anniversary)

Lisnaria, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon

On the First Anniversary of Nancy’s passing, we, her family, would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our great loss. Thank you to all our great neighbours, relatives and friends for your kindness and generosity, to those who attended Nancy’s Removal, Funeral Mass and to those who sent online tributes, Mass Cards, sympathy cards, condolences, letters and floral tributes. We thank most sincerely the management and staff at Sonas Nursing Home, Cloverhill, for their outstanding dedication and care. We also thank Drs Martin and Myriam Daly for their care of our mother over the years and more recently, Dr. Brendan Crosby. Our sincerest gratitude to Kathleen Gavin and Rose Maloney, her home helpers for many years. A special word of thanks to Fr George Agger for administering Nancy’s final blessing. Sincere thanks also to Fr. Louis Lohan for his prayers and for celebrating the beautiful, meaningful Mass and thanks also to the choir for the beautiful hymns and music. Special thanks also to David Moran, Funeral Directors for taking care of arrangements with such professionalism, dignity and attention to detail and thanks also to the gravediggers for preparing Nancy’s final resting place. We also thank Fallon’s for providing a beautiful meal after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Who passed away on 23rd January 2021.

(12th Anniversary)

or call us on 090 6634633

Beloved husband of Betty and much loved dad to Peter, Mags, Libby and Tim. He is very sadly missed by his loving family, grandchildren Megan, Ethan, Elsie, Emily, Tadhg, Tomás, Cian and Ellen, relatives, neighbours and many friends. May Sonny Rest In Peace. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Ballyleague Church on Saturday 3rd February at 7pm.

TIERNAN Margaret Late of Cartron, Kilrooskey (13th Anniversary)

You are near, even if I don’t see you. You are with me, even if you are far away. You are in my heart and in my thoughts, in my life, always. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Fuerty Church on Sunday, 21st January at 11.30am.

GERAGHTY Brian Rocksavage House (23rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Margaret, who passed away on 14th January 2011

As we remember Brian with love and affection let the words of this prayer console us.

No matter how life changes no matter what we do a special place within our hearts is always kept for you. Always remembered and sadly missed by your loving family. xxx

HOARE Annie Racecourse Road, Roscommon

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

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

The local paper!

Greenfield Road, Lisnamult, Roscommon

Lanesborough Street, Roscommon Who died on 23rd of January 2023

In loving memory of Dara, who passed away on the 24th January 2012.

Nancy’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30 p.m on Saturday, 27th January, 2024.

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

LANE Frances

(1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Seamus who passed on 27th January 2023

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Gerard, Mary, Raymond and Joanne, her sister Eilish, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

SCALLY Seamus

You gave us all you had to give, gifts both big and small. But most of all you gave us love, the greates gift of all.

Loved and remembered by your family.

Oh! God of power and love, who made Brian not for death but for eternal life, let the splendour of Christ’s resurrection scatter the shadows of death and cause the radiance of eternity to shine on him. Amen. ----------No farewells were spoken, we did not say goodbye, you left that January evening and only God knows why. No one knows the heartache, that lies behind our smiles, no one knows how many times we have broken down and cried. But from your picture you seem to smile and say, don’t be sad! but courage take and love each other for my sake. Always loved and remembered especially in Holy Mass and prayer by Anna, Arthur, Brian, Padraic, Niall, Edward and Ciaran.

They say there is a reason, they say that time will heal, but neither time or reason will change the way we feel. For no one knows the heartache, that lies beneath our smiles, no one knows how many times, we have broken down and cried. We want to tell you something, so there won’t be any doubt, you are so wonderful to think of but so hard to be without. We cannot bring the old days back, when we were all together, the family chain is broken now, but memories live forever. With love from your heartbroken daughter Samantha, sons Padraig and Reza. Grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass for Seamus and his beloved wife Mollie will be held on Saturday, 20th January in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 7pm.

The Lane family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. We would like to thank all those who sent messages, Mass Cards, wreaths, condolences on R.I.P.ie and those who travelled long distances to be with us. A sincere thank you to Fr. Kevin Fallon who celebrated the Funeral Mass and to Deacon Seamus Talbot for his contribution to the Mass and laying Frances to rest at Athleague Cemetery. To Aileen O’Connor for her beautiful singing during the Mass and to the Abbey Hotel for the lovely meal they provided after the Funeral. Thank you to Smyth’s Funeral Directors for the comfort and support they gave us in taking care of all the Funeral arrangements and to those who prepared France’s final resting place where she is now reunited with her beloved husband, Frank. Thank you to the medical team’s in Mullingar Regional Hospital for their care and compassion. A special word of thanks to all the staff at Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague for the love and care they showed to Frances in her last years. As it is impossible to thank everybody individually please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest and sincere gratitude. The Holy Mass will be offered for your intentions. Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared and the love they brought into our lives. Frances’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 28th January 2024 at 11.30am.

HANLEY Andrew Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon Who passed away on the 19th January 2021

McNAMARA Frank Rockfield, Roscommon (15th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 23rd January 2009

My mind still talks to you, my heart still looks for you. But my soul knows you are at peace, I miss you every single day Andrew.

Masses offered.

Will those who think of him today, a little prayer to Jesus say. Remembered by Chris and family.

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

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

NewsPeople

APPOINTMENTS

KELLY Maura Fearagh, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

We are recruiting a

Security System Engineer and a Trainee (apprenticeship). The applicants will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of CCTV, Access Control, Gate Automation and Intruder alarms Send CV to: info@ftsecuritysolutions.ie or call 090 6444334 for further information/job specification

In loving memory of Maura who passed away on the 19th of January 2022 Our hearts are full of memories, with pride we speak your name, though life goes on without you, it will never be the same. Those special days will not return when we were all together, but the love and memories in our hearts, will stay with us forever, until we meet again. Lovingly remembered by Susan, Will, Éile and Karl. Anniversary Mass celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday, 15th January.

Brian Geraghty and Odin Fallon from Roscommon CBS pictured with Denis Naughten TD at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend. Job Description:

Office Administrator

Position: Permanent Role (part time considered) Location:

Roscommon Town

Responsible for: Co-ordinating day-to-day appointments and inspections; Proof reading and quality control of reports; General office administration. Key skills required: Good people skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues; l Ability to prioritise duties and liaise with appointment administrators in other offices; l Familiarity with MS Word, MS Excel and MS Access; l Strong English language skills; l Strong eye for and attention to detail. l

BRADY Robert Hermitage, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. (5th Anniversary) In loving memory of my dear husband Robert, father, son, brother, grandfather and uncle who passed away on the 27th January, 2019

Applicants for the role should send their CV and cover letter to:

Callum Beirne from Roscommon Community College, pictured with Denis Naughten TD at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend.

Kayla Joyce from Roscommon Community College, pictured with Denis Naughten TD at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend.

Careers@BrandonOBrien.ie SITUATIONS VACANT

We thought of you with love today, but that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday and the days before that too. We think of you in silence, we always speak your name, now all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.

< PART-TIME ASSISTANT WANTED: For busy Drycleaners/Laundrette in Roscommon Town. Applicant must be flexible with working hours/ days. Applicant must speak fluent english. Please send enquiries to: P.O. Box 3098 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Ethel and children Bobby, Michelle, Liam, Amanda and Paul, sons-in-law Junior and Eugene, daughters -in-law Breege, Louise, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you, and wish you were still here. Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord. Loved and remembered by his brothers Marty and Timmy, sisters Marion, Stella, Eileen, Tish, nieces, nephews. 5th Anniversary Mass will be held in The Sacred Heart Church Ballinagare on Saturday, 20th January 2024 at 8pm.

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

Sean Allen from Roscommon Community College, winner of the Amgen Biological & Ecological Award at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend, pictured with Denis Naughten TD and Martin Flynn from BT.

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

TELEPHONE: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Joshua Kenny, Stephen Tighe and Michael Lavin from Scoil Mhuire in Strokestown pictured with Denis Naughten TD at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS Dublin last weekend.

Sports PEOPLE Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

Roscommon’s Conor Cox in pursuit of London’s Ciaran McKeon during last Saturday’s Connacht FBD League semi-final in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Ladies up for Down challenge! Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 3: Roscommon v Down on Sunday in Páirc an Phiarsaigh at 12 noon < SEAMUS DUKE

After a turbulent 2023 on and off the field, Roscommon ladies footballers start their 2024 league campaign with a home game against Down in Division 3 on Sunday. Following a major management saga some months ago, Ollie Lennon is back at the helm. The ‘back

in favour’ manager says that he wants his team to develop a winning run after what was undoubtedly a very disappointing 2023. “We have a good panel of players training away and we are looking forward to the season. We have four players in from Clann na nGael which is very positive. Having said that, three of them are injured at the moment, but that’s the way it goes. We have a few players returning to the panel too which is very positive”. Ollie admits that he knows very little about their opponents, Down. “We didn’t come across them last year at all. They were in a different division to us in the league and

they were in the junior championship so we don’t really know what they are like”. The Roscommon manager won’t make any predictions about the campaign, but he is targeting a few wins to build up momentum. “We want to win a few games to get the season going. We would like to win as many games as we can but we will take it one game at a time starting with next Sunday” he concluded. Sunday’s home game is an ideal way to start the year. With home advantage, Roscommon should start their league campaign with a win. Prediction: Roscommon.

GAA fixtures Friday, January 19th Connacht FBD League Final At Connacht GAA Air Dome: Roscommon v Galway. 7.30 pm

Sunday, January 21st Lidl Ladies NFL Division 3 (Round 1) At Padraig Pearses: Roscommon v Down. 12 noon AIB All-Ireland Club SFC Final At Croke Park: St Brigid’s v Glen. 3.30 pm

Roscommon Ladies manager Ollie Lennon hopes his team can get off to the perfect start in the league this year when they face Down on Sunday. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

SportsPeople Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Major darts event in Roscommon this weekend This coming weekend sees one of the highlights of the Irish Darts calendar in County Roscommon as the West Coast Challenge visits the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon Town. The weekend of darts starts with a Mixed Open draw pairs competition on Friday, 19th of January. This will be a relaxed and fun event to get the weekend started, and all players, regardless of experience or ability, are more than welcome to take part. Names will be taken from 5.30 pm-6.30 pm, with games to start at 7.30 pm. Entry is €10 per player.

Saturday sees the main event – the men’s, ladies and youths team events. First darts are at 11 am for all competitions as an expected crowd of 500+ will attend. A men’s event with 16 county teams will be held, with entries from Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Roscommon, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Longford taking to the stage. Ten Ladies teams from counties Clare, Mayo, Cavan, Leitrim, Roscommon, Donegal, Limerick and Galway will battle it out for top honours in the Ladies event and eleven youth teams will compete also, with

Donegal, Westmeath, Mayo, Roscommon, Limerick and Galway all represented hoping to win the West Coast Challenge Youths’ title. Sunday sees the Abbey Hotel-sponsored Roscommon Open take place as Men’s, Ladies and Youths Open singles are played. Names will be taken from 10.30 am-11.30 am, with games starting at 12 noon. Entry fees will be as follows: Men €20, Ladies €15 and Youths €10 euro. A guaranteed top prize of €500 will be sure to bring the cream of the crop of Irish darts players to the county,

with this event open to all darts players throughout the country. Our Men’s teams are managed by Tommy Beirne, Brendan Mullarkey and Martina McKeon. Recent challenge games against Sligo and Galway have seen great promise from both our teams. For the first time in recent memory, our Ladies will take to the oche competitively, hopefully the start of great things to come in Ladies darts within the county. Finally, we can’t forget our Youths team. Youths darts has returned to Ro-

scommon this year with some top class potential showing through in recent practice events. Who knows, the next Luke Littler may be closer to home than we think! So with just a few days to go, the Abbey Hotel will be the place to be this weekend. Whether you’re a player, spectator, or have just caught the bug for darts over the Christmas period, all are welcome. There is no cover charge for the event and all are welcome to what will be a spectacular weekend of darts within the county.

Soccer fixtures Friday, January 19th RDFL Premier Division Castlerea Celtic v Ballinasloe Town. 8 pm Boyle Celtic v Ballaghaderreen. 8 pm RDFL Second Division Kilkerrin Utd v Cam/Dysart. 8 pm

Saturday, January 20th RDFL Women’s League Ballinasloe Town v Shiven Rovers. 8 pm RDFL Reserve League Skyvalley Rovers v CP Ajax. 12 pm Roscommon Utd v Shiven Rovers. 12 pm Dunmore Town v Boyle Celtic. 12 pm Moore Utd v Ballinagare Manor. 12 pm

Sunday, January 21st RDFL Premier Division CP Ajax v Moore Utd. 2 pm RDFL First Division St John’s Athletic B v Ballinagare Manor. 11 am Skyvalley Rovers v Ballymoe. 11 am Glen Celtic v Dunmore Town. 11 am RDFL Second Division Ballaghaderreen B v Roscommon Utd. 11 am Cloonfad Utd v Rahara Rovers. 11 am RDFL Women’s League Castlerea Celtic v Cam Celtic. 2 pm

Ballaghaderreen’s Pauline O’Grady and Robyn Towey hot on the heels of Cam Celtic’s Marian Nolan during their RDFL Women’s League match on Sunday which finished in a 2-2 draw. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

s t t u p t r o h S

(News from local golf clubs)

BOYLE

Chrissie Killian, Sheila Cleary, Sandra Feary, Marian Hendrick and Margaret Bannon pictured at Athlone Golf Club’s Nollaig na mBan lunch recently.

Congratulations to Mark Whelan who won the recent 9-hole club competition with 20 pts, with Mark Feehan coming in second on 19 pts. This Sunday, January 21st, will be the deciding match of the 2023 King Harmon Cup. Lorcan Egan and Terry Canning are the final pairing. Boyle Golf Club expresses its best wishes to Mark Whelan who will be Men’s Captain for 2024. Membership fees are now due. A full list of the fees and payment options are available on boylegolfclub.com The club expresses its sincere condolences to the family and many friends of the late Michael Costello, a member of Boyle Golf Club for several decades. Michael, who was still playing in his Sunday Fourball well into his 80s, was renowned for

his friendly and courteous manner, shown to all he encountered in the club. He will be greatly missed.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON The timesheet is now open for entry to the Flynn’s Bar-sponsored Spring League. A big thank you to Shane Fitzpatrick at Flynn’s for their very generous sponsorship this year again. To enter, please log into BRS, and put your name on the timesheet. Teams will be picked on Sunday, January 28th at 4 pm. Weather permitting, the league will consist of six weekly rounds, commencing Monday, January 29th and ending on Sunday, March 3rd. The format will be 9-hole stableford. With €1000 of prize money on offer, we hope to have a strong entry again this year.

Ber Kenny, Clare Dowling and Lizzie O’Sullivan pictured at Athlone Golf Club’s Nollaig na mBan lunch recently.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

SportsPeople Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Creggs defeat Corinthians by a point Creggs J1A team edged past Corinthians in a tight, tense physical battle by a single point, on a scoreline of 19 points to 18, in Galway last Saturday evening. This was always going to be a close game as the Galway side are currently in second in the AIL 2B. Corinthians opened brightly, scoring an unconverted try in the opening phase, but Creggs responded well, converting a penalty and running in a try, which was subsequently converted, leaving the score 10-5 in favour of Creggs at the break. The second half saw the Galway side dominate the early exchanges, scoring a penalty, but Creggs responded by converting two penalties of their own, one of which was a massive 45 metre kick from Mark Purcell, giving Creggs an eight-point lead. Corinthians responded with a converted try and brought the gap back to a single point to make for a nervy finish. Creggs emerged victorious by the single point and now look forward to a huge clash away to Connemara next Sunday in Clifden in the last eight (2 pm kick-off). Creggs Seconds: Creggs seconds played hosts to Carrick-on-Shannon in their league decider last Sunday, winning the game 34-15. This was a tighter match than the scoreline reflects with both teams playing very good rugby.

Carrick took the lead with a penalty after 15 minutes but Creggs responded with a converted try. Carrick then went over for a try of their own to put them 10-7 up until Creggs broke through for a try just before half-time to leave the score 14-10 at the break. Creggs dominated the second half with some wonderful attacking rugby, scoring three tries, two of which were unconverted, and a penalty, while holding Carrick to a single, unconverted try to leave the final score 34-15. Boys U-17s: Creggs Boys U-17s travelled to Buccaneers last Sunday to contest the league semi-final, a game that Creggs lost 46-12. Creggs got off to poor start, conceding a try within the first two minutes, a setback which shook them. Creggs did respond with a try of their own but the team never fully recovered and went in at half-time 20-7 down. The second half started in similar fashion with Creggs conceding two converted tries in the first 20 minutes of the half. Creggs did their best to come back into the game but in the end it finished Buccs 46 Creggs 12. Girls U-18s: Last Thursday night the Connacht U-18 Girls Division One league semi-final saw Creggs defeat Tuam/ Oughterard to progress to the final in two weeks’ time. The game finished 84-26

BUCCANEERS RFC

Ryan O’Meara is presented with the Audi Athlone Man of the Match award by Buccaneers president Brendan Wilkins after last Saturday’s AIL Division 1B clash against Blackrock.

in favour of Creggs who go into the final knowing they have the ability to play excellent rugby. Well done girls and good luck in the final. Girls U-16: Creggs Girls U-16s played away to Ballinasloe on Saturday in the league. The girls put up a good fight but unfortunately it was not to be their day but they fought a very valiant fight to the end. Boys U-16s: Creggs U16s boys played Sligo at home in the league semifinal on Saturday. It was a very tight match which finished 8 points to 7 to Creggs. The win gives the Creggs boys a place in the league final. Boys U-14s: Creggs U14s boys played away to Corinthians on Saturday in their league semi-final and came away with a 14-7 victory. The team play Ballinasloe in the league final in two weeks’ time with the venue to be confirmed. Girls U-14s: Creggs U14s girls took on Buccaneers last Friday evening. Some brilliant rugby on display from the girls saw them go toe to toe with each other but Buccs went away with the win in the end. A marked improvement can be seen with this team and all their hard work is paying off. Boys U-13s: On a cold but sunny Sunday afternoon Creggs U13s took on Galwegians. Having lost heavily to Galwegians in the opening game of the season the team showed

The Creggs U-16s boys team pictured ahead of their game against Sligo last Saturday. Pic: Steve Fahey

the progress made in the last few months by seeing out a five-point win. Creggs move on to play Sligo away on the 27th of January. Mini rugby: Creggs girls U-10s and U-12s travelled to Ballinasloe RFC for a blitz last Saturday.

They played in a number a games and showed great skill and commitment. Creggs’ mini section welcomed Carrick-onShannon RFC to Creggs on Saturday morning for a blitz. About 300 children from U-6s to U-12s turned out to use all four pitches.

Thanks to Carrick-onShannon RFC and to our Mini coaches and organisers who do huge work for the club in this very busy section. Lotto: This week’s lotto wasn’t won and now the jackpot is €11,700. The lucky dip winner was

Elaine Tighe. As can be seen from this week’s match reports we had eleven teams in action with over 250 minis playing. The lotto generates the money to run all these teams. Please support the lotto on www.creggsrugby.ie

The Creggs U-18s girls team pictured ahead of their match against Tuam/Oughterard last Thursday night. Pic: Steve Fahey

Buccs face Garryowen on Saturday Buccaneers head to Limerick on Saturday where they play Garryowen in the Energia All-Ireland League with this Division 1B clash kicking off at 2.30 pm. Buccs were bitterly disappointed not to have completed a double over Blackrock College last weekend, but if the Pirates can replicate that endeavour and commitment they can put it up to the Munster side. Seconds away to Sligo: Following their win away to Monivea last Sunday week, Buccaneers Seconds’ Junior Cup campaign sees them take on Sligo this Sunday. The action gets underway in Sligo at 2 pm. U-20s home to UCD: Buccaneers U-20s resume action following the festive break with a

home fixture against UCD Seconds in the JP Fanagan Leinster League Premier 2 Division. Kickoff at Dubarry Park on Sunday is at 2.30 pm. Buccs narrowly lose to Blackrock: An Oliver Coffey penalty with the final kick of an absorbing match denied due reward to Buccaneers in a really competitive and exciting Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B game played at Dubarry Park last Saturday. Blackrock got off to the perfect start, scoring a converted try after just eight minutes. They kept the pressure on with a couple of converted penalties but these were offset by two converted penalties for Buccs, leaving the half-time score 13-6 in favour of Blackrock.

Within seconds of the restart, the Dubliners scored again with another converted try to put them 20-6 ahead. That seemed to light a fire under Buccs and on 47 minutes they scored a wonderful converted try followed by an unconverted try eight minutes later. The momentum was now with Buccs who scored a splendid long-range penalty to edge 21-20 ahead with 17 minutes remaining. The teams continued to battle ferociously for the spoils but Buccs conceded a penalty in front of the posts on the 85th minute and Blackrock converted to give them a 23-21 victory. After giving their all, Buccaneers felt the devastating taste of a heart-

breaking defeat. However, they can take commendable pride from their sustained endeavours and luck will surely come their way if they continue to put in similar efforts in the challenges ahead. Buccs U-17s: On a cool but sunny Sunday, Buccaneers U-17s advanced to the Connacht League decider with a 46-12 victory over Creggs at Dubarry Park. Buccs U-16s: Buccaneers U-16s rediscovered some of last year’s form with a good performance against league leaders Galway Bay. Buccs won the game 48-8 playing running rugby, scoring eight tries and four conversions to a penalty and a try. Buccs now progress to the final against a strong Creggs outfit.

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

SportsPeople

Weather continues to impact on racing Horses for Courses Racing this week was to start today (Thursday) at Fairyhouse but the meeting is postponed to next Wednesday due to the freezing conditions. Friday’s evening meeting on the flat at Dundalk’s allweather track starts at 4 pm.

National hunt racing on Saturday is at Proudstown Park outside Navan, away at 12.45 pm, and featuring the listed Navan Handicap Hurdle. Sunday’s fare is at Thurles in Co Tipperary with a 12.30 pm start and opening with

Willie’s 1-2-3! by Tom Red

two Grade 2 chases, the EBF Mares Novice Chase and the Horse & Jockey Chase. If going racing this weekend check to ensure that whatever meeting you are going to is not postponed.

Willie Mullins ran 4 in the Grade 1 Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle and completed a 1-2-3, with the 16/1 outsider of the 4, Readin Tommy Wrong with Daryl Jacob aboard catching the favourite Ile Atlantique and Paul Townend on the line to win by a neck with Leckey Watson and Danny Mullins in 3rd, 7½l further back. Weather continues to affect racing on both sides of the Irish Sea with the meeting at Chepstow and Plumpton last Tuesday, Newbury yesterday and Fairyhouse, Ludlow, Newcastle with Wincanton and Lingfield tomorrow all lost today to Jack Fost.

On TV

Readin Tommy Wrong and Daryl Jacob (Green) jump the last with Ile Atlantique in the Grade 1 Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle.

Terrestrial TV racing coverage was to start Friday with four races from Lingfield, now abandoned, but two from Market Rasen on ITV 3 go ahead. On Saturday ITV Racing is covering four races from Ascot including the Grade 1

Clarence House Chase, three from Haydock and one early morning race from Lingfield all-weather. Willie Mullins sends over El Fabiolo, unbeaten in five runs over major obstacles, to run in the Clarence House at Ascot if racing gets the go-ahead. He will meet Nicky Henderson’s Jonbon, defeated once in six runs over fences, beaten by Mullins’ horse in Cheltenham last March, gaining revenge for his defeat over hurdles in Aintree in 2022. There are two other runners – Elixir De Nutz and Unexpected Party – in the race. Other Irish entries at the meeting include Stuart Crawford’s Ailie Rose in the Mares Hurdle with two in the handicap hurdle, Mullins’ Batman Girac, and Elliott’s Absolute Nonsense.

Racing news

Nico de Boinville is poised to make his return from a broken collarbone at Market Rasen on Friday, subject to medical

De Bruyne puts ‘pep’ back in City’s step

SPORTS DESK Paul Healy

St Brigid’s will relish being underdogs This Sunday’s All-Ireland Club SFC final is beautifully set up for St Brigid’s, which is not to underestimate the scale of the task facing the Roscommon and Connacht champions. I’m no expert on the psychology of sport, but I imagine St Brigid’s must be relishing their status as underdogs, as justified as that label may be on this occasion. Mind you, they are surely underdogs with very realistic hopes of being in contention to win this All-Ireland crown. Glen are favourites with most observers. That’s based on their momentum over recent seasons, last year’s valiant title bid (Glen losing in the final), and the fact that they accounted for defending All-Ireland champions Kilmacud Crokes in the recent semi-final. St Brigid’s, however, have a huge amount going for them entering Sunday’s final. The glow of their wins over Corofin and Castlehaven shines brightly. They were more workmanlike against Boyle and Mohill, but there is a blend within their ranks of youthful exuberance, experience, flair and tenacity that is very impressive. St Brigid’s might need to score two goals – that and produce their finest display of the season – to be within sight of glory approaching the final

clearance today (Thursday) and track being passed fit for racing. He hopes to be reunited with Jonbon in Saturday’s Clarence House Chase. He was injured over the Christmas when falling on Therapist in a juvenile hurdle race at Doncaster. Another law firm has sponsored a race on day 1 of the Dublin Racing Festival, as McCann Fitzgerald FFP join Nathaniel Lacy Solicitors who sponsors the Grade 1 Novice Hurdle, in sponsoring the Grade 1 Spring Juvenile Hurdle, usually a pointer for Cheltenham. It is more than two years since Ferny Hollow, winner of the 2020 Cheltenham Champion Bumper, was last seen on a racecourse – at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting in 2021. Unbeaten over obstacles, the 9-Y-O carries an entry for the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Dublin Chase where his trainer WP Mullins has 8 of the 12 entries including the ante-post favourite, El Fabiolo.

whistle on Sunday. Glen are justified favourites, but this St Brigid’s team are very real contenders, and they could surprise neutrals and win the title. It promises to be fascinating. I wish St Brigid’s every success as they endeavour to follow in the footsteps of their own heroes of 2013.

Genius? Yes, but Ronnie’s rudeness is tiresome! Okay, I know it won’t remotely tarnish his incredible legacy – but it’s a pity to see snooker superstar Ronnie O’Sullivan being so rude about his fellow players! It is now accepted by the vast majority of observers that O’Sullivan is the greatest snooker player we have ever seen (the claims of Stephen Hendry and Alex Higgins notwithstanding). The ultimate genius on the green baize, ‘The Rocket’ also has astonishing career longevity. When he won the Masters final last Sunday night – defeating Ali Carter 10-7 – it was a record eighth Masters title for O’Sullivan, this latest one coming at the age of 48, an amazing 29 years after he won his first. I watched the entire evening session, testimony to O’Sullivan’s box office appeal. In proceeding to voice my ‘rude Ronnie’ views, I

Luke Glennon in action for Roscommon during last Saturday’s Connacht FBD League semi-final against London in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

appreciate that complaining about O’Sullivan’s off-table demeanour is to risk ‘missing the point’ about elite sportspeople – but I still feel it’s disappointing that this incredible sportsman can be as petty and provocative as he sometimes is. I actually buy into the argument that we should pretty much unreservedly celebrate sporting genius and not ourselves be petty enough to point to an individual’s frailties outside their area of sporting combat – Tiger Woods is a classic example – but still, must O’Sulllivan be quite so unpleasant about his peers?

O’Sullivan seems to relish giving awkward interviews, feigning (in my opinion) disinterest in the game, making controversial comments for the sake of it, and often dissing opponents. During last week’s Masters tournament, O’Sullivan was repeatedly dismissive of other players. He said his younger opponents “look old” and “their brains are quite slow”. After coming from 3-6 behind to overpower Carter in the final, O’Sullivan – admittedly perhaps provoked by some whinging from his opponent – really let loose,

launching an expletive-heavy attack. He described Carter as “a f**king nightmare” who “isn’t a nice person”, adding: “You know what he’s like, everybody knows what he’s like. He’s got issues. I don’t give a f**k about any of these snooker players, any of them”. (The rant got even worse). Ronnie is a joy to watch, and he is without question a genius. I would go further: we really are privileged to be witnesses to his extraordinary career. He can be charming and generous at times too, but it’s such as pity that a tendency towards gracelessness sometimes leave a sour taste.

Halfway through the Premier League season, a much more competitive title race than had been expected continues to unfold. The return of Kevin De Bruyne for Manchester City last Sunday is ominous for their rivals. The Belgian ace, back from a lengthy injury lay-off, immediately stamped his class on the game when introduced from the bench against Newcastle, De Bruyne stroking home a goal before setting up City’s late winner in a 3-2 win. If any team can go on a long winning run, it’s City – unsurprisingly, they are the bookies’ favourites to claim the title. Liverpool have been excellent over recent months, and there is every reason to believe they can sustain their challenge. Arsenal need to steady the ship, but are well capable of doing so. Neither Aston Villa (having a magnificent season) or Spurs are likely to stick the pace, Champions League qualification a more realistic goal for both clubs. Of course what would add spice to an already interesting season is if a hearing into alleged breaches of financial rules by Manchester City were to finally proceed. Other clubs have been punished recently, but City – facing more than 100 charges – have yet to face the authorities. If the powers that be happen to come down hard on City, not even Kevin De Bruyne will be able to save them (although a combination of lawyers and accountants might!).

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

SportsPeople

‘We need to do better!’ Best wishes to Castlerea St. Kevin’s from

Comfortable win over London, but Burke wants Rossies to now up their game FBD Connacht SFL semi-final Roscommon 0-21 London 1-9 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Davy Burke says his team will need to improve on their current performance levels if they are to have a chance of securing silverware when they meet Galway in this weekend’s FBD Final. Roscommon senior footballers’ love affair with the FBD League continues into 2024 as a nine-point win over London last weekend ensured a 10th final appearance in a row for the primrose and blue. Roscommon now face Galway in the decider at the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome on Friday night (7.30 pm). However, it must be said that it is questionable if Davy Burke and his selectors would have learned

anything from a low-key encounter last weekend. London were competitive, but the circumstances, conditions, and quality of opposition will be a whole lot different when Roscommon face Tyrone in Omagh on Sunday week in their National League opener. Speaking to the Roscommon People after the win over London, Davy Burke reflected: “We were alright tonight for 20 minutes, but once Daire Cregg went off it all fell apart. I thought that defensively we were miles off the pace. We have a couple of weeks to fix that (ahead of the Allianz NFL). We have players that love attacking but we have to look after the other end of the field”. A somewhat underwhelmed Burke added: “It (the performance) was okay and that’s about the best I can say. We have another run out next weekend against Galway now. We haven’t been playing challenge games so I hope that Galway will bring a decent

side and we will go at it”. As to how Galway are likely to line out, given that the teams will meet two weeks later in the league, Burke said: “It’s hard to know what Galway will do. I’m sure they will be a little stronger (than they were against Leitrim), but we will have to see. It’s another game for us. There is a cup up for grabs. We will turn up and do our best but we will have to do better than we did tonight”. Last Saturday, London matched Roscommon for the opening 12 minutes, by which point it was 0-3 apiece. Roscommon then scored six points without reply to open up a gap that was to prove decisive in the end. London scored a fine team goal in the 30th minute when Ciaran McKeon was on the end of a sweeping move. Burke gave credit to the underdogs’ performance. “In fairness to London, they played well. They were very well set up. Fair

Roscommon manager Davy Burke on the sideline during the Connacht FBD League semi-final against London in the Connacht GAA Air Dome last Friday evening. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon’s David Murray collides with London’s Daire Rooney during last Friday’s Connacht FBD League semi-final in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

play to them, they respected the competition, just like we did. It’s up to other managers what they do”. Still, London’s efforts notwithstanding, Roscommon were in cruise control long before the end, with Diarmuid Murtagh and Conor Cox impressive up front. 0-13 to 1-6 ahead at the break, Roscommon ran their bench in the second half and it was good to see Keith Doyle back in action (his fielding was superb at times). Eoin McCormack and Luke Glennon were also excellent as Davy Burke’s men kept London at arm’s length. Murtagh and Cox kicked some super points but it has to be said that Roscommon never created a clear goal chance in the game. In contrast, London scored one, missed another and had a penalty saved by Conor Carroll in the 50th minute. A plus for Roscommon was the reappearance of Andy Glennon, who kicked two long-range points after his introduction. Finally, we asked Davy Burke how soon he expects the St Brigid’s players – currently focussed on the club’s All-Ireland campaign – back in the squad. “In fairness to the Brigid’s lads they have been in with us as much as they could. Look, if they want to play Division One football they will be back fairly quick, but we will see what happens!”.

Teams & scorers Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Senan Lambe, Luke Glennon, Niall Higgins; David Murray (0-1), Colin Walsh (0-1), Eoin McCormack (0-2); Dylan Ruane, Enda Smith (0-1); Cian Connolly, Diarmuid Murtagh (0-6, 2 frees), Daire Cregg (0-2); Conor Cox (0-6, 2 frees), Ciaran Lennon, Jack Duggan. Subs: Keith Doyle for Cregg (34), Adam McDermott for Connolly (34), Caelim Keogh for Walsh (h/t), Andy Glennon (0-2) for Duggan (45), Evan Flynn for Lambe (45), Declan Kenny for Murray (55), Niall Daly for Ruane (55), Paddy Gavin for Lennon (58).

London: Andrew Walsh; Daire Rooney, Matt Moynihan, Fiontan Eastwood; Oran Kerr, Ciaran McKeon (1-0), Conor Cox; Stephen Doran, Liam Gallagher (0-2, 1 free); Aidan McLoughlin, Daniel Clarke (0-3), Donal Flaherty; Joshua Obahur, Shay Rafter (0-4, frees), Eoin Walsh. Subs: Ryan Tohill for Gallagher (44), Tighe Barry for McLoughlin (48), Sean Tucker for McKeon (55), Ryan O’Connell for Kerr (55), Caolan Mulgrew for Obahur (63). Referee: Christopher Ryan (Galway). Man of the Match Eoin McCormack (Roscommon)

London’s Fiontan Eastwood and Roscommon’s Ciaran Lennon in action during last Friday’s Connacht FBD League semi-final in the Connacht GAA Air Dome. Pic: Bernie O’Farrell

Roscommon People Friday 19 January 2024

INTERIORS • www.alderfordinteriors.ie • BALLYFARNON, CO. ROSCOMMON (beside Kilronan Castle Hotel)

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TELEPHONE: 071 – 9647016

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 to 6pm. Sundays, 2pm to 6pm. Closed every Monday including Bank Holidays