25 December 2020 Roscommon People by RossiePeople

The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

Christmas Arrangements

The next issue of Roscommon People will be published on Thursday morning, 7th January 2021.

The offices of Roscommon People at Abbey Street, Roscommon, will be closed from 6pm on Tuesday, 22nd December and will re-open on Monday, 4th January 2021.

www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

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The Editor and staff of Roscommon People wish everyone a Happy, Holy and Peaceful Christmas and sincere best wishes for a Healthy and Happy New Year

25 December 2020

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Wishing all our customers a very Happy & Prosperous Christmas and thank you for your support throughout this difficult times. SEE BACK PAGE

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and thank you for your support in 2020

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Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

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

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Mob.: 086

1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

ATHLONE Ι MOATE LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

090 647 8433

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie

Wishing all our clients and readers a very Happy Christmas and peaceful and prosperous New Year.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

A Happy Christmas from the barstool boyos This week last year… Huh? So much has changed since then for the Barstool Boyos… Huh? This week last year…we were in our local on Christmas Eve. Oh, right… Like that classic song says, I remember it well… Go on… We met at 6… We met at 5. CYCLING ACCIDENT I was on time. No, you were late. Ahwere yes, involved I remember it well…we had a If you in a cycling pintaccident with friends… contact WeByrne had a pint alone. Carolan A singer sang a Christmas Carol. Cunningham Solicitors No, the pub bore murdered Fairytale of New York… I remember it well. That magical Christmas snow! There was none that evening. How often I’ve thought of that Thursday… Tuesday. …night, when we had our last Christmas Week rendezvous. We weren’t to know… You walked me home. I walked home with you. Ah yes, I remember it well… Not THAT well if you ask me! I bought out of turn…an extra drink… Yeah, I REMEMBER THAT WELL! (They pause to ponder on the wilted promise of so much of 2020) You’ll forgive me being a little emotional, nostalgic…

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

Of course! I mean, what a year it’s been… We took so much for granted. Yeah, including that weekly visit to our local… I know… Last Christmas Eve, when we had those few pints, little did we know the mayhem that was to arrive into our lives… That’s the thing about the pub bore, you never know when he’ll come in… No, NOT HIM! Covid, the pandemic! We had no idea of the trauma 2020 would bring… I know…we should have had ANOTHER pint. Well, I dunno, it’s important to get

What a year…Dublin win the six-in-arow in December in a deserted Croke Park. Sport was turned upside down. Life was turned upside down. Anguish for so many families. They are in our thoughts. Stress for so many families. They too are in our thoughts. What did we learn? A lot, perhaps. We learnt that there are numerous heroes amongst us. We did indeed. We have a lot to be proud of in this country. We are resilient, we are generous…. Our frontline workers in Roscommon have been heroic. And it’s been difficult for our elderly people, for young people too… Eh… Okay, for middle-aged people too! Our businesses have been resilient… Agreed! We can get through this… We WILL get through this. Roscommon Together! Roscommon Together, Ireland Together, the world Together. Both: Happy Christmas to all our readers, and stay safe!

Roscommon minor footballers had a tremendous win over Galway in the Connacht semi-final.

What we didn’t like… The virus has no emotion or feeling: we might have hoped for a respite over Christmas, but on the contrary, recent developments include: the sobering reality of increased cases of infections nationally, a travel ban (from UK to Ireland), reports of a new strain of the virus, and the demoralising news that there will be a return to lockdown before the New Year.

Best Wishes Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP Solicitors

What PEOPLE are talking about

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

(They pause to compare notes on how they are both faring on buying Christmas presents, leading to a slightly embarrassing silence)

What we liked…

Stay safe and healthy this festive season!

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

home early on Christmas Eve. That’s why we always kept it to an hour or two. Christmas is about family… Agreed. But we should have had another pint back in March, just before the first lockdown!

PIC OF THE WEEK: Natalie got a great surprise when she met Santa in Morelli’s, Ballaghaderreen recently. Picture: Santa’s Little Helper.

An eleventh-hour shock (which is very upsetting for many people) as Covid forces the banning of travel from the UK to a number of countries, including Ireland; Dublin’s six-in-a-row, as the all-conquering Dubs defeat a gallant Mayo in the All-Ireland Football Final. Also, Dublin ladies completed a four-in-a-row with a hard-earned win over Cork. And some people seem to want to talk about Manchester United getting the better of Leeds…Happy Christmas to all!

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople A POEM FOR CHRISTMAS Fr C.A. Mullaney

Good Tidings CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL OFFICES AT ÁRAS AN CHONTAE, ROSCOMMON TOWN AND MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OFFICES • Closed from Thursday 24th December 2020 to Friday 1st January 2021 inclusive. • The Motor Tax office will close to the public at 12.00 p.m. on Wednesday, 23rd December, 2020 • Offices will reopen on Monday 4th January 2021 with the following restrictions: • Public Hours for unscheduled access from 10.00am to 1.00pm, Monday to Friday for Housing, Planning, Motor Tax and Cash Office. Services outside these hours is by appointment.

Fill cherub choirs the twilight An anthem rich and meet Make million little snowflakes A carpet for her feet Beam windows all a welcome A fáilte folk within Shine myriad stars from Heaven Glad torchlights for our King The pageant slowly passes By hollied home and tree And smiling faces greet you Goodwill eternally While baby Jesus bails our way From sin he sets us free!

• For all other services, access is by appointment only. • Athlone, Roscommon and Boyle Municipal District Offices will be open from 10.00am to 1.00pm, Monday to Friday. Services outside these hours is by appointment. • Castlerea, Ballaghaderreen and Strokestown by appointment only. • Telephone 090 6637100 for all appointments. • For Emergencies please contact 090 6637100. LIBRARIES • All Libraries closed from Thursday 24th December 2020 to Monday 4th January inclusive. • Roscommon Town, Castlerea and Boyle will operate the following hours from Tuesday 5th January 2021: Roscommon Town and Boyle Library: Tuesday & Thursday 1pm – 8pm Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm Castlerea Library: Tuesday 1.30pm – 5pm & 6pm – 8pm Wednesday 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 4.30pm Thursday 1pm – 5pm & 6pm – 8pm Friday 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm Saturday 10am – 1pm • Ballaghaderreen and Strokestown libraries remain closed for renovations works, while Elphin library is closed due to COVID restrictions. CIVIC AMENITY SITES • Open Monday 21st December, 2020 – normal opening hours 8am – 4pm • Open Thursday 31st December, 2020 – normal opening hours 8am – 4pm • Open Saturday 2nd January, 2021 – normal opening hours 8am – 4pm Liam Bergin, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98

Carmel Fox Lunt with Lily, Cadhla, Ruairi, pictured at the blessing of the Nativity Scene on Pound Street in Ballaghaderreen recently.

Injury Unit is here for you this Christmas

Nadia Finneran (Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner) pictured with Dr. Bello Musa, (Injury Unit Registrar, Roscommon Injury Unit). Photograph was taken in 2019, pre-Covid.

With winter upon us and Christmas just around the corner, Roscommon University Hospital is reminding people that its Injury Unit is open from 8 am to 8 pm, 365 days per year, to treat a range of injuries which are non-life or non-limb threatening, as an alternative to visiting a busy Emergency Department. The Injury Unit is located within the Urgent Care Centre at Roscommon University Hospital and is staffed by Doctors, Advanced Nurse Practitioners and Nurses. Maggie Mew, Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Roscommon Injury Unit explains: “We are able to see, diagnose and treat a wide range of injuries for both adults and children over five years of age. You do not need a GP referral. We have a walk-in-service and Covid

measures are in place for people presenting to the unit. Our team is experienced in treating people quickly and efficiently; the average turnaround time for seeing and treating patients at Roscommon Injury Unit is less than sixty minutes. “We treat defined groups of people with injuries from shoulder to finger and from knee to toe effectively. We essentially deal with non-life or non-limb threatening injuries and also treat scalds, wound type injuries, minor burns, traumatic wounds, and remove foreign bodies from the eye, ear and nose. “The Injury Unit also deals with eye injuries, and sports injuries such as hand injuries, ankle injuries and fractures. “The Emergency Departments

can be extremely busy at this time of year, and it is important to remember that Emergency Departments are for emergencies only. By visiting the Injury Unit, you will get the care and treatment you need in the most appropriate place and will be referred to specialist care if necessary. “If you are looking for advice on your injury and want to know if you should attend the Roscommon Injury Unit, you can call us on 090 663 2212. “We hope everyone has a safe, healthy and happy Christmas and remember we are here if you need us”. Roscommon Injury Unit serves patients in the vicinity of Roscommon, East Galway, Westmeath, South East Mayo, Longford, South Leitrim and South Sligo.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople

HSE paid Lecarrow testing firm €14.1m for unused ventilators < DAN DOONER

Local TD Denis Naughten has raised concerns regarding medical procurement policies during the Covid-19 pandemic after it emerged that the firm responsible for antigen testing in Roscommon earlier this year was paid €14.1 million by the HSE for ventilators which have failed quality tests. It was reported in the Irish Examiner last week that Roqu Media International Ltd., the company which carried out Covid-19 antigen testing in Lecarrow in October and November, had been paid for the medical ventilators, which have yet to be used due to ‘quality issues’. Roqu CEO Robert Quirke has since said the ventilators required “specific ongoing calibration” and that Roqu had connected the HSE with the manufacturers. Deputy Naughten said: “Deputy Roisin Shortall raised the matter during

Leaders’ Questions (last Thursday)…it raises significant questions across the board in relation to procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic”. Social Democrats Deputy, Roisin Shortall also said that “serious data protection concerns” had been raised over the retention of data from the Lecarrow tests. Deputy Naughten said it was understood that the HSE couldn’t go through the normal procurement process due to the urgency of the developing situation in March. “While the HSE couldn’t go through the traditional routes in terms of procurement, there was still supposed to be a certain amount of due diligence. The Government had brought in Science Foundation Ireland to help with the many unsolicited offers of help at the outbreak of the pandemic. “I myself was contacted by quite a number of businesses with offers of PPE equipment and I advised them to go through the

route the Government had advised with Science Foundation Ireland. “Whether the Roqu group went through this I don’t know but there was supposed to be a mechanism in place to review these offers,” he said. Cathaoirleach of Ro-

scommon County Council, Cllr. Laurence Fallon was involved in facilitating the antigen testing programme in Lecarrow over six weeks in October and November and said that there had been no issues with the Roqu group. “They came to us and

told us what they wanted and asked us if we could supply people for the testing. There were no financial dealings and they carried out the testing independently. “The Parish Council had no real dealings with the Roqu group other than

supplying the grounds (of St. John’s Church) and setting up a rota and stewarding. “They did what they said they were going to do and we did what we said we were going to do and there were no issues whatsoever,” Cllr. Fallon said.

The Roqu Group carried out Covi-19 antigen testing at St. John’s Church in Lecarrow in October.

Council buys 20 acres near Monksland Roscommon County Council confirmed that it has purchased over twenty acres of land in Monksland area, known as ‘The Parkway Estate’ which is seen as a strategic piece of land in the development of the area. CEO Eugene Cummins confirmed the news at yesterday’s (Monday) monthly meeting of the local authority and said that the council had beaten one other bidder to the purchase. The area had been vacant for over a decade and concerns had been previously raised over anti-social activity in the estate. Local councillors welcomed the news yesterday with Cllr. John Keogh describing the purchase as of “critical importance” to the development of the area and Cllr. John Naughten saying it was a good day for Monksland. It is understood that over half of the site is zoned for housing while approximately 8 acres are zoned for recreational use.

ON BEHALF OF TOM HILLAND THE COMMITTEE FORMED TO RESTORE HIS HOUSE AFTER IT WAS GU'ITED BY FIRE ON THE 25TH OCTOBER 2020

We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to the individuals and businesses listed below. Due to their generosity and expertise Tom has been able to move back into his "new" house in good time for Christmas. We also wish to thank the hundreds of people who contributed money to the project, both privately and via the online Go Fund Me platform. A special thank you to Darren [Barney] Hoare and family who had Tom as a guest in their house while work was ongoing. Tom gained two stone in weight over the seven weeks in Darren's house! Thanks also to Tom's neighbours on Henry St and Circular Rd who were most accommodating in everyway while the work was underway. This project illustrates the old Irish proverbs: "Ar scath a ch.eile a mhaireann na daoine" [People live in one another's shadow] and "Ni neart go cur le ceile" [There is strength onjy in uniy] VOLUNTEER WORKERS ON

��

HILL HOUSE RESTORATION

House clearance: Members of Roscommon Fire Brigade,Pat Hoey, Gary Smith, Alan Somers. Patrick Croghan, David Hoare. Enabling works: Keith Donlon, James Hoare,Frank Beatty, Tom Hoare, Wayne Donlon, Dave Gately, Kieran Hoare, Kilan O'Brien, Ciaran Hoare, Vinnie Hoare, Shane Connelly, Eoin Whyte, Kieran Conlon, John Tarpey. Concrete Floor Laying: Frank Loftus, Gerry Loftus, Power Washing: Stephen Hoare, Vinnie Hoare. Plumbing & Heating: Gary and Joey Finneran, Mike McDonagh, Daniel McDonagh. Electrical Installation: Niall Loftus Fitted Kitchen: Mark Lohan Kitchens. Kitchen Appliances: Darren Beatty. Kitchen Fitters: Enda Carthy Fitters. Carpentry Work: Adrian Hanly, Gerry Gately, JP O'Gara, Shane Connelly, Eoin Whyte. David Kelly, Darren Beatty. Fireplace Construction: James Horan. Mantlepiece: supplied and fitted by Jimmy Servis. Plastering:Kieran McConn, Gerry Ryan, Stephen Coyle, Cathal Simpson. Stairs : Stephen O'Connor (Four Mile House). Stair Fitters: Darren Beatty and James Smyth Slabbing and external plastering repairs: P.J Featherstone, Shane Featherstone, Darren Hoare, Keith Donlon, Ciaran Hoare, David Kelly. Floor and Wall Tiling: Brian Hoare, Micky Menton, Liam Finneran, Kevin King, Tomas King. Laminate Floors and Carpet to Stairs: John Donlon. Facia Preparation: Frank Beatty, James Hoare, Ciaran Hoare, Keith Donlon. Fascia, Soffit and Gutters: Farnan Hegarty - [ Materials plus fitting] Painting: Darren Hoare, Tom Crean & Sons, Noel Hoare. Railings and Gate: Kenneth Kelly - Supply and Fitting. Late night Furniture delivery and assembly: Stephen Glynn Electricity Connection during reconstruction: The Good Neighbour. Snag List: Charlie Hunt, Luke Hanley, Luke Hanley Junior, Kenneth Hanley, Owen Hoare, Joe Murray. Catering: Stephanie Donlon, Catherine Hoare, Leonie Beirne, Mary Hoare, Lisa Hoare, Josie Hoare, Saoirse Hoare, Emma Feerick,Rachel Hoare. Catering Supplies: Conor Gill, McNeill's Supermarket. Bank A/C Set up, Jackie MannionPTSB. Social MediaPR campaign: Siobhan Hoare. PR Campaign: RoscommonPeople, Roscommon Herald, Joe Finnegan, Shannonside Northern Sound. DONATIONS OF MATERIALS RM Tool Hire: All plant and power tools required.UPVC Windows & Doors: Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd.Trocal Flat Roof sheeting: McCrann Roofing (Carrick on Shannon). Roller Blinds: JT Blinds (Johnny Tiernan, Derrane/Kilrooskey).Curtains: Carmel Gavin, Roscommon Curtain Centre. Electrical Materials (�nd Fix): Sean Gavin Electrical. Scaffolding supplied and erected by Owen Dervin and Sons. Sanitary Ware:Pat Tully. Household Furniture: Gerry McNulty, Kieran Gannon, Jason Gannon. Microwave: Seamus Naughton. Longford Tiles and Bathroom: €500 voucher. Roscommon Fireplace Centre [Pio Tully]: New Stove FOC. � Electric Shower units+ Shower Enclosure: Chadwicks Roscommon. FOC. Wards Hardware: Voucher €400. New Television: John Finn Electrical. Electrical materials: MGF. Painting materials: Treacy Decor. Satellite Dish, TV connections: Hughie Kedian. New Television: THE INVISIBLE MAN! Hall Table: Marian and Dominic James. Rocking Chair: Dr. David Sharkey. Face Masks: Dee Hamilton@inspired by Ruby, Martin Murray. General Printing: DWMPress Ltd, Donamon.

� //.illJ/4 mite �/4 ui&.

Signed: Charlie Hunt, Chairman,Jaines Hoare, T�, Geny Browne, Secretary, Geny Dervin, Project Coordinator, Frank Beatty, CledcofWor.b, Stephanie Donlon, Catering Manager.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Thursday ‘Christy Ring: Man and Ball’ was a very enjoyable, poignant and welcome documentary on the hurling hero. He was long retired when I was growing up, but his legend was passed from generation to generation. This was an excellent, affectionate and moving documentary. The footage of Ring gave a sense of both his playing ability and his iconic presence on and off the field. Until I saw this documentary (shown on RTE), I wasn’t quite fully aware of the extent of his achievements. Not only did he win eight senior All-Irelands, he was almost a Cúchulainn-like figure to his people. Like too many other superheroes, he departed this world much too soon. His legacy and legend will live on.

Saturday There were times during the first half of Saturday’s All-Ireland football final when Dublin, the invincibles of this era, looked uncharacteristically out of sorts. There were mislaid passes, wides, the odd fumble. Mayo were playing well. It was probably reasonable for the watching TV audience to wonder if Mayo-ites might yet be celebrating (in their homes) like it was 1951. Still, Dublin led by two at the half-time whistle, and were much slicker after the break. It was particularly impressive how they owned the ball for much of the 10-minute period when they were down a man. Mayo battled on impressively, and Celebrities…pictured in Athleague last week! Picture: Mick McCormack going into the last fifteen minutes, they to play it safe. Sean seems to want to say O’Rourke’s contributions now are often were level with the six-in-a-row chasing something controversial or provocative, but embarrassing. Like Paul Merton in Have champions. But Dublin’s grip on the he seldom delivers. It’s like he went to the I Got News for You, the magic is fading. game was growing. Mayo only got one Joe Brolly School of Animated Provocation, Colm is past his punditry peak. I’m not being point in the last 29 minutes of the game, but didn’t really concentrate. ageist. The game has changed, and O’Rourke the Dubs winning with comfort in the The once-great BBC panel show Have I is sounding outdated. end. Got News for You is now tired, arguably past It’s the same with Spillane. If I hear him Dublin weren’t at their best, which is it. It is in terminal decline. A similar fate is pass off any more basic statistics as credible ominous for all the hapless pretenders. revealing itself for the Three Grumpy Men punditry, I’ll despair. We need nuance and Although they never actually looked who once starred with the likeable straight intelligent analysis, not lazy clichés and Pat’s like winning, Mayo did very well, and man, Michael Lyster. annoying obsession with silly stats. Time to James Horan’s latest team could well be a Colm O’Rourke, his old sparring partner Pat ring the changes. stronger force over the next two or three Spillane, and the mischevious Joe Brolly once years. Congratulations to this magnificent formed a feted Sunday Game panel. Maybe Dublin team on their latest recordLater on Saturday we were easily entertained in those days. breaking success. There were times when they were very good, Meanwhile, the RTE panel had a very When friends rang to invite us out for a meal, other nights when they revelled in indulging average outing. I never know what to it felt like we were being asked to step back in hyperbole for the fun of it. expect from Sean Cavanagh. To be fair, in time. Which we were, I suppose. O’Rourke was a great footballer. As a he appears to like the idea of disagreeing And so, the other night, we found ourselves pundit, for many years he was the voice with fellow panellists, of straying from in a restaurant, a party of four. Getting ready of reason as Spillane and Brolly did their consensus. At heart, he doesn’t want to go out felt strange. Being out and about in showboating. The glory days are gone.

a social setting felt strange. It was great to revisit something of life BC (before Covid). There were 25 to 30 customers in the restaurant. It was all a touch muted, yet still very nice. With no background music, we were spared Chris Rea and friends. To our right, five ladies were in great form. When they got quite excited about the arrival of their cocktails, it almost felt like Christmas. By 10.30 pm or so, the staff in the restaurant began to gently ease the night on its way. A little while later, the waitress stopped at our table and chatted (probably playing her ‘Eh…we might wrap up when you’re ready’ card). She was stoic in the face of the pandemic’s cold unreasonableness. There had been speculation over the previous 24 hours about restaurants and hotels possibly closing again later this month. When we sympathised, the waitress smiled a weary smile. All night, the proprietor and staff had done all they could (and they succeeded) to make this an enjoyable experience. Smiling faces (well, behind masks) standing up to the chaos besetting the hospitality industry. As for us, we were grateful for a slice of normality, even if it was symbolised by face masks, a slightly subdued atmosphere, and the knowledge that another lockdown is circling. We thanked our hosts and made a heartfelt wish that the New Year would bring some stability for them. Then we sanitised our hands and stepped into the eerily quiet night, passing the empty pubs and inhaling the stillness of this silent last Saturday night before Christmas.

“

We were grateful for a slice of normality, even if it was symbolised by face masks, a slightly subdued atmosphere, and the knowledge that another lockdown is circling

Win A Home in London ticket competition winners

Pictured with Gabriel Lynch is the week two entry winner of Lynch Flooring’s ‘Win A Home in London’ Facebook competition, Ursula Sweeney.

Gabriel Lynch of Lynch Flooring is running a Facebook draw in which tickets for the Win a Home in London draw can be won. He recently presented the week one and week two winners with their tickets. Best of luck to both in the main draw! Merry Christmas to all from Lynch Flooring.

Pictured with Gabriel Lynch are the week one entry winners of Lynch Flooring’s ‘Win A Home in London’ Facebook competition, Peter and Maeve Mullen.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople Looking for Christmas present ideas?

The Vibes, have teamed up with Grammy-award winning music producer, Greg Wells.

The Vibes team up with Grammy winner! < DAN DOONER

Leitrim band, The Vibes, have teamed up with Grammy-award winning music producer, Greg Wells (‘The Greatest Showman’) after sending the LA-based producer a demo of their new song ‘Christmas Feels Different’. Greg described the song as “stunning” and liked it so much that he offered to produce and mix it free of charge. The Drumshanbo band’s lead singer Leo Logan said: “I wrote the song about how different Christmas will be this year for so many families due to both friends and family passing away from Covid-19, but also because of the people and their fami-

lies who won’t get to spend Christmas together this year due to distance. “We know we have missed all normal deadlines for releasing a Christmas song, but we felt something special seemed to be happening with this song. It has received such emotional responses from anyone who has heard it. So much so, we have decided to just let it out and see where it goes,” he said. The Vibes are: Leo Logan (vocals and guitar); Gerard Bracken (bass); Martin Raftery (drums); Kiev Reynolds (guitar); Ruairi Carty (banjo/mandolin) Joanne Logan (vocals/piano). ‘Christmas Feels Different’ is available now on the all the usual music outlets.

Take a step back in time and revisit some of the magical sporting memories of the past… Paul Healy’s

SPORTING

HEROES On sale in local bookstores

Brexit - if you need to call

As a result of the UK leaving the EU, major changes come into effect on 1 January. Substantial advice is available for businesses and citizens at GOV.IE. For situations requiring urgent and immediate assistance, Government departments and agencies have put in place a number of resources to assist business and citizens for the critical days ahead. Contact details for some of the key services are below. A full list of relevant Government services is available on gov.ie/brexit

Area

Contact details

Opening hours

Customs Clearance Import/Export/Transit Controls (if you already have a declaration reference number).

Tel: 01 738 3685 (Revenue Commissioners)

24 hours

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Advice line for stakeholders in the agri-food and fisheries sector. Queries in relation to import consignments of animals, and products of plant and animal origin should be directed to the relevant border control post of entry.

Tel: 076 106 4443 Email: BrexitCall@agriculture.gov.ie

24 hours

Border Control Posts:

DAFM Dublin Port

Tel: 01 615 7792 Email: BCP.DubPort@agriculture.gov.ie

24 hours

DAFM Dublin Airport

Tel: 01 615 7650 Email: BCP.DublinAirport@agriculture.gov.ie Mon to Fri: 9am - 5:45pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm

DAFM Rosslare Port

Tel: 053 911 4157 Email: RosslareBCP@agriculture.gov.ie

Mon to Sun: 4am Midday and 2pm - 10pm

HSE Dublin Port and Airport

Tel: 01 921 2851, 087 633 6510, 01 897 6140 Email: importcontroldublin@hse.ie

24 hours

Business Supports

Tel: 01 631 2002 (Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment) Email: infobusinesssupport@enterprise.gov.ie

Mon to Sun: 9am - 5pm

Dublin Port

Tel: 01 887 6000

Mon to Sun: 7am - 11pm

Rosslare Port

Tel: 053 915 7929

Mon to Sun: 3.30am - 10pm

Tel: +353 1 613 1769 or call your local Embassy

8am – 8pm: Friday 1 January – Monday 4 (inclusive) January

Freight shipping procedures and timings etc. Department of Foreign Affairs Advice line for Irish citizens overseas requiring Brexit related information or assistance. Callers from Northern Ireland

Tel: 0300 123 1510 (LoCall)

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Sunday 27 December 2020 Why did Jesus choose to become a baby born of a mother and father and to spend all but His last years living in an ordinary human family? In part, to reveal God’s plan to make all people live as one “holy family” in His Church (see 2 Corinthians 6:16–18). In the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, God reveals our true home. We’re to live as His children, “chosen ones, holy and beloved,” as the First Reading puts it. The family advice we hear in today’s readings – for mothers, fathers, and children – is all solid and practical. Happy homes are the fruit of our faithfulness to the Lord, we sing in today’s Psalm. But the Liturgy is inviting us to see more, to see how, through our family obligations and relationships, our families become heralds of the family of God that He wants to create on earth. Jesus shows us this in today’s Gospel. His obedience to His earthly parents flows directly from His obedience to the will of His heavenly Father. Joseph and Mary aren’t identified by name, but three times are called “his parents” and are referred to separately as his “mother” and “father.” The emphasis is all on their familial ties to Jesus. But these ties are emphasised only so that Jesus, in the first words He speaks in Luke’s Gospel, can point us beyond that earthly relationship to the Fatherhood of God. In what Jesus calls “My Father’s house,” every family finds its true meaning and purpose (see Ephesians 3:15). The Temple we read about in the Gospel today is God’s house, His dwelling (see Luke 19:46). But it’s also an image of the family of God, the Church (see Ephesians 2:19–22; Hebrews 3:3–6; 10:21). In our families we’re to build up this household, this family, this living temple of God. Until He reveals His new dwelling among us and says of every person: “I shall be his God and he will be My son” (see Revelation 21:3, 7). – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvastionhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Local cases remain low as new lockdown looms < DAN DOONER

The HSE has called on the people of Roscommon to think carefully about the number of people they see in the run-up to Christmas Day as the county reported six new cases of Covid-19 yesterday (Wednesday). Dr. Breda Smyth, Director of Public Health in the West, said it was “vitally important” for people to limit their interactions ahead of the Christmas period as 727 new cases of the disease were confirmed as of midnight on Sunday “The latest national data highlights that the number of cases is increasing more rapidly than had been anticipated. This increase in cases is particularly worrying in the context of intergenerational mixing over the Christmas period. “If you take a risk today, tomorrow, or over the next few days, then you are putting anyone you see over the Christmas at risk. Think about the impact that being diagnosed with Covid-19 would have on

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tony Holohan

those close to you,” Dr. Smyth said. Meanwhile, the President of Roscommon Chamber, Brendan Allen, said health and wellbeing would always be the number one priority but there was growing frustration among the business community. “There have been mixed

messages around the opening up of the hospitality sector in particular. Restaurants and some pubs were reopened ahead of Christmas but within a couple of days the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tony Holohan, was telling people not to visit them. “Health is the priority as

always and with cases rising we have to lockdown again, but the business community can’t cope for much longer. “There are a number of shops such as clothes shops, gift shops, etc. that are not high risk in terms of transmission (according to the data) so I don’t think

it’s fair to have these blanket lockdowns. “There is a positive, however, that with the roll-out of a vaccine, the end of this is now in sight. Hopefully this is the last lockdown and the last bit of frustration we have to experience before we see the end of Covid-19,” he said.

Senator

AISLING DOLAN WORKING HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

W I S H I N G YO U A N D YO U R FA M I LY A

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A

HAPPY & SAFE NEW YEAR Please phone my office for an appointment

KERRANE TD

Main  :Street, 087Ballaghaderreen. 194 5254 Tel. 094 9861688 Bridge St, Ballinasloe. Tel. 090 9644901  : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie Email:

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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Thank You

I wish to thank all the people who sent me mass bouquets, get well cards and messages of support during my recent illness. They are all very much appreciated. I also wish to thank the staff of Roscommon University Hospital for their excellent care of me during my three month stay. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for the intentions of all.

Signed Helen Healy

Pictured ahead of his first service as Rector of Rathmichael, is Rev. Sean Hanily (right) with Archbishop Michael Jackson, Archdeacon of Dublin David Pierpoint, and Archdeacon of Glendalough, Neal O’Raw.

Roscommon man is Rathmichael’s new Rector Reverend Sean Hanily, a son of John and Pauline Hanily, and who hails from Mullymux in Roscommon, has been appointed Rector of Rathmichael Parish in Shankill, Co. Dublin. Rev. Hanily had been a curate in the Parish of Drumragh and Mountfield in Omagh, Co. Tyrone before taking up his new position in Dublin. The Rathmichael Parish Council took to Facebook to welcome their new Rector: “It is with great pleasure that we announce the appointment of a new Rector of Rathmichael Parish. “Sean Hanily is currently

the curate in Omagh parish in the diocese of Derry. After graduating from Trinity College with a Music degree, Sean worked in St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a number of years before full-time study for ordination. He served as a deacon in Rathfarnham parish before moving to Omagh. ‘We very much welcome Sean and Cherith and their young son Marcus and assure them of our prayers as they prepare to come to Rathmichael’. Rev. Sean Hanily pictured with his wife Cherith and son Marcus.

newsbriefs Christmas Masses at St Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan

The arrangements for the Masses on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan are as follows: Thursday, December 24th (Christmas Eve): Mass at 7 pm; Friday, December 25th (Christmas Day): Mass at 10 am. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 and the need to adhere to Government Covid-19 protocols, admission to Christmas Masses will be by ticket only. This is to accommodate as many people as possible to attend one Mass. Ticket admission will only apply to the two Christmas Masses and not the regular Sunday Mass. We thank you for your support and cooperation.

Murphy welcomes €1m for Elphin housing project

Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy has said that the investment of €1m in the development of six new social houses in Elphin will be a bright start to the New Year. Roscommon County Council made the application and has received approval for four two-bedroomed and two threebedroomed homes on the Windmill Road in Elphin. Senator Murphy said: “This will greatly address a shortage of homes for people on the housing list in North Roscommon. “It’s fantastic news, and a return to the core values of the Fianna Fáil party in terms of the provision of Local Authority housing for local people in local areas. “The Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien has indicated to me that he plans to visit Co. Roscommon and adjoining counties early in the New Year and he is determined to ramp up small social housing developments”. The Fianna Fáil Senator praised Martin Lydon and the Housing Section of Roscommon County Council for their work on the application. “It’s great news for the North Roscommon and Elphin area –there is a huge shortage of two-bedroomed houses in particular, so this development will go some way towards addressing that shortage”.

Grab a ‘Roscommon Voucher’ this week!

The ‘Roscommon Voucher’ has been officially launched in Roscommon town. The Roscommon Chamber of Commerce has partnered with VoucherMe.ie to introduce the voucher to shoppers in Roscommon town and the Chamber President, Brendan Allen, said it has experienced a great first week of sales. It is hoped that the voucher will provide a pre-Christmas lift to the town, encouraging shoppers to keep it local, and will also appeal to large employers who can gift employees vouchers up to the value of €500 tax-free each year. Shoppers will be able to spend the voucher among a large number of the town’s businesses. Brendan Allen has once again called on local businesses to get involved with the voucher by contacting him at president@roscommonchamber.com.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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D News page

Santa Claus pictured studying the map of the Cloonlage Loop.

Twelve Days of Poems for Christmas

Roscommon Arts Centre’s online festive programme will continue over the holiday period this year as they stay engaged and connected with the public through a new poetry event, entitled ‘Twelve Days of Poems for Christmas’. Curated by poet Jane Clarke on behalf of the arts centre, the Roscommon native has extended invitations to eleven other poets to share a Christmas poem that they love with the public and also to read one of their own poems via Roscommon Arts Centre’s Facebook page each evening for the twelve days of Christmas. Christmas Day is considered the first day of Christmas, and Roscommon Arts Centre are delighted that at 7 pm on that evening, acclaimed poet Paula Meehan will take to our virtual stage to open the programme. Each day thereafter, a host of renowned contributors – including Aifric Mac Aodha, Ciarán O’Rourke, Mary Noonan, Elaine Feeney, Roscommon’s Jessamine O’Connor and Gerry Boland, Julie Morrissey, Paul Perry, Chandrika Narayanam Mohan and Gerard Beirne – will add to the festive collection, with Jane Clarke herself reading the final poems on January 5th. In times of turbulence and loss, human beings have always turned to poetry for solace. This year, perhaps more than ever, people in Ireland and all over the world have found that poetry helps them feel connected to each other and gives them the courage to endure. This project seeks to inspire and uplift as we mark the end of a year like no other and look with hope to 2021. Twelve Days of Poems for Christmas has been made possible with funding from The Arts Council of Ireland and is supported by Roscommon County Council. The poems will be streamed via Roscommon Arts Centre’s Facebook Page each evening at 7 pm, with a different poet reading each evening. For further information, visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

Santa pictured giving some zero-waste treats to Alannah Dolan, Daniel O’Connor, Donnacha O’Connor, and Séan Óg O’Connor at the official opening of Lilliput Way, Kilteevan.

The past meets the future on Lilliput Way, Cloonlarge Loop, Kilteevan

On December 18th, Lilliput Way on the Cloonlarge Loop, Kilteevan, was officially opened with a touch of Christmas cheer. Due to government guidelines, only fifteen people attended this outdoor event. The inclement weather did not dampen the seasonal spirits and joy. The road was overgrown and had fallen into disuse in recent years. With the benefit of funding from the Peatlands Community Engagement Scheme 2020 and Roscommon County Council’s Community Enhancement Scheme, Kilteevan Tidy Towns reopened and surfaced the road. A Fairy Trail, signage, seats, and living willow structure were also installed. The road was named Lilliput Way based on the discovery of the remains of a very large Lilliput Turf Cutting Machine on the bog. The group decided to retain remains of the machine as a relic of Kilteevan’s rich heritage and association with turf. Local men Tommy Dolan and Eamon O’Connor, who had worked on the Lilliput Machine, shared their memories with Kilteevan Tidy Towns about working on the machine. The late Johnny and Paddy Dolan were fondly remembered as original owners of the machine. Guests of honour were Tommy Dolan and his granddaughter Alannah Dolan, Eamon O’Connor and his grandsons Sean Óg, Donnacha and Daniel O’Connor. Santa Claus was a totally unexpected surprise guest! Speaking at the opening, Eileen Fahey, Chairperson of Kilteevan Tidy Towns, wel-

Santa Claus pictured chatting with Alannah Dolan at the official opening of Lilliput Way.

comed the guests and described the event as a very special day in the history of the community. She thanked Laura Gallagher, Conservation Ranger at National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), for her continuous support and guidance. She also thanked Niall Cribbon and Cathryn Hannon of NPWS. The positive relationship with Roscommon Council was acknowledged and praised. Eileen thanked Neal Geraghty, Acting Director of Roscommon Municipal District, Anthony McDermott and the staff of Roscommon Co. Council for their support. Eileen went on to say that nothing could be done without the goodwill of Tidy Towns volunteers who spend endless hours giving their time and expertise just for the greater good.

In relation to the Fairy Trail, Eileen said she had to single out Patricia Fox, Youth Liaison Officer for Kilteevan Tidy Towns, for making magic happen. She also thanked Patricia’s husband Mark and their four children Maria, Sean, Mark and Matthew, who spent endless hours working in their bubble on Lilliput Way to ensure it was simply beautiful. The pupils of Kilteevan National School were thanked for the poem Queen Luna’s Plea, which they composed especially for Lilliput Way. Afterwards, Tommy Dolan, Eamon O’Connor, their grandchildren and Santa were invited to cut the ribbon and officially open Lilliput Way. After the cutting of the ribbon, Laura Gallagher spoke about the importance of Kilteevan’s Special Area of Conservation, stating that the area had some of the most pristine boglands in the country. Cathryn Hannon thanked Eileen Fahey and Kilteevan Tidy Towns for their groundbreaking work, and said the group was leading the way nationally in relation to community engagement with peatlands. Following the official opening, Santa, in the interest of equality, paid a very socially distant visit to the gate of Kilteevan National School, where he presented the Principal with a basket of healthy, zero-waste, personalised treats, for every child in the school. Santa explained to the Principal Collette Brennan, that the treats had been quarantined for fourteen days at the North Pole.

Kilteevan NS pupils celebrate The teachers and pupils of Kilteevan National School/ Junior Tidy Towns gathered in the school yard to recite their poem ‘Queen Luna’s Plea’, which they composed for Lilliput Way. As a symbol of the school’s ongoing commitment to caring for the local natural environment,

each pupil was presented with a native Irish woodland tree – holly or rowan – to sow at home! An information pack containing certificates, directions for how to plant our trees, a four-page leaflet on pesticide-free gardening at home, and labels for wheeliebins was also presented to each pupil.

This initiative was in cooperation with National Federation of Group Water Schemes, in partnership with Roscommon County Council. The trees were sponsored by Variety Ireland, a children’s charity, and Sean Mulryan of Ballymore properties. That was not the end of an

exciting day in Kilteevan NS! A fairy door appeared in the front hallway of the school – it didn’t take the pupils long to discover that this was an official portal to Lilliput Way! Then a special guest came to visit the school yard – the one and only Santa Claus (bearing gifts, as ever!).

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Keep Well & Stay Active

Roscommon County Council â€˜Community Callâ€™ in conjunction with Roscommon Sports Partnership are here to give you some great tips and information to Stay Active and Keep Well over the Christmas. Sport and physical activity is essential to our physical and mental well-being, our sense of positivity and our long term health. Physical activity & engagement with nature can further enhance the benefits of physical activity and improves social and emotional well-being. Check out the Sport Ireland #Outdoors for Everyone Infographic (top left) for tips and advice on responsible outdoor recreation. With the easing of travel restrictions within the county over the Christmas why not take advantage of the beautiful scenic Walks & Cycleways that our county has to offer (bottom left).

Remember that we are all In This Together and although we may not have a typical Christmas there is even more reason to get out for some Physical Activity to boost our overall physical health and mental wellbeing.

Visit www.visitroscommon.ie to download the Booklet

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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FRANK BRANDON Wash your hands and stay safe this Christmas FRANK BRANDON’S

Our columnist on the mighty Dubs, good deeds, and enjoying the Christmas period safely… It’s the last Sunday before Christmas, and the truth is that the only thing

that is certain about the next couple of weeks is the uncertainty. Even now, we have no idea who will be here for the Christmas Day dinner or how many, if any, of the family will make it home. During the week, our daughter Lisa, who is a frontline worker, got the dreaded news that one of her patients had tested positive for Covid, and while she was only deemed to be a

unique take on life ...

casual contact, she had to be tested and self-isolate. Thankfully she tested negative, but it really brought home to me how vulnerable all of us are. I also think that because the vaccine is now almost within touching distance, I am more apprehensive about catching the virus, as I suppose it would be terrible altogether to fall victim to it just when a cure seems

on the horizon. And so, I think it is an absolute necessity that we all take due care and follow all the guidelines over the festive season. Having said that, I have no qualms about heading to my two local pubs, Mikeen’s and Joe Dolan’s, for a nice meal and a pint or two over the Christmas and making the most of this unusual festive season. A friend of mine rang me on Friday, having

been identified as a close contact of an infected person, and his message to me was to bring hand sanitiser to the pub, and by continually cleaning my hands I should be safe. So that’s my anti-Covid message to you – keep washing your hands, stay away from house parties, enjoy it as best you can while obeying the rules, and hopefully 2021 will see a return to normality.

Dubs set for seventh heaven? As I said, I am writing this on Sunday morning, and of course all the papers are full of the all-conquering Dubs and their extraordinary achievement of winning six All-Irelands in a row – there can be no doubt that they are dominating Gaelic football like no other county ever has before and, as I wrote last year and the year before, I can see this domination lasting for some time to come. Last year I said it was possible they could do ten in a row, and nothing has happened since to change my mind. What is the most frightening thing of all, from other counties’ perspectives, is the fact that this Dublin team is constantly changing, and new lads are being brought in on a regular basis. The great Kerry team of the eighties had nine or ten players who were there for the entire journey, but not so for the Dubs! They keep evolving each year, and when players like Paul Mannion, Brian Howard, Cormac Costello, and other household names can’t make the starting fifteen, that tells us all we need to know. As for Mayo, yet again they did their county proud, and while it will go down as another failure, they went like the old gunslinger, all guns blazing and died with their boots on. While I’m sure Seamus will have his view somewhere in the paper, in my humble opinion the strength of Dublin’s bench made the difference in the final quarter when the game was there to be won or lost. So yet again, congratulations to Dublin, commiserations to Mayo, and if anyone can stop seven in a row, I’ll eat my (Galway) hat. Talking of Galway, lost in the small print was their victory in the U-20 final on Saturday when they defeated the young Dubs by a point. It was a thoroughly deserved win, although they nearly let a big lead slip, and it was great to see Ballyhard lad, Conor Raftery, having such a positive influence at midfield. All-Irelands are hard to come by (unless you play for the Dublin seniors), so well done Galway, and hopefully I’ll hang on to my hat for a while longer!

Top musicians go ‘Busking for Simon’ The social restrictions that have been brought about by Covid-19, and sadly, the continued closure of so many ‘wet’ pubs, has undoubtedly led to us watching more television. On Friday night last, I found myself, once again tuned in to The Late Late Show, and once again, I was extremely impressed with Ryan Tubridy and his ‘Busking for Simon’ show. For those of us who are lucky enough to live in rural Ireland, and who have, no matter how modest, roofs over our heads, it’s easy to forget the thousands of people who are homeless in this country, who sleep on the footpaths and in the doorways of our towns and cities, and for whom Christmas is no different than any other time of the year, with only loneliness, hunger and misery to look forward to. The Simon Com-

munity has looked out for these people for many years, giving them food, warmth and shelter. Musician Glen Hansard has been involved in ‘Busking for Simon’, and has been performing on Grafton Street in Dublin on Christmas Eve for thirty or so years. This year it won’t go ahead because of the pandemic, and as a result, there will be a shortfall of much-needed funds. However, on Friday night a load of top musical artists, including Imelda May, John Sheehan, Finbar Furey, The Edge and Bono all appeared on the Late Late, sang and played, with all online and phone donations going to Simon. It was great entertainment and great fun, but more than that, it showed the Irish spirit once again, as all the artists who are hav-

ing very tough times themselves (well, maybe except the U2 pair), gave up their time to try to help those who are much less off. By Monday we will know how much was raised, but knowing the generosity of the Irish people, I would say it should be huge. Funny enough, up to Friday night I always thought of Bono as a bit of a self-opinionated upstart who thought he was more important than he actually is, but on Friday night he came across as nearly normal, and was definitely genuine in his concern for the Simon cause. Also Tubridy, while he’s not everyone’s cup of tea as a broadcaster, shows a real feel for good causes, and the Late Late has now become the best fundraising show, probably in the world, so good on you Tubs, and well done.

Michael’s book is out now!

I have just been paid a visit by Ballygar man Michael Nolan, who has become synonymous with fundraising for Haiti, an area that has been devastated in every way possible. He has a beautiful new book out, ‘Memories of Haiti and other stories’; a lovely publication with all sales proceeds going to Our Little Brothers and Sisters’ Orphanage in Haiti. If you see the book in any local shop, put your hand in your pocket, hand over the small sum of €5, and do your bit to help a suffering community.

And finally… Finally for this week and this year, as we look back on a year that left a trail of sadness and devastation everywhere, out here in Creggs we seem to have suffered more than most with so many sad deaths in the community. A lot of families will be glad to say goodbye to 2020, but before we do, enjoy the Christmas, stay safe, support local businesses, be nice to everyone, and as my mother used say, if you can’t do a good deed, at least don’t do a bad one. Please God I’ll talk to you again in the New Year. Thanks to all who read and supported the Roscommon People during 2020.

‘Till next year, bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Days To Go

The Christmas Gift of a Lifetime wina home in london

The Chance to Win a Luxury Apartment on London City Island Worth £695,000! That’s right, on December 30th one lucky person will win a stunning, Ballymore built, two-bedroom home. Widely recognised as an emerging new cultural hub for London, this award-winning development comprises of 1,706 new homes, restaurants, cafes, and more. It’s London’s most connected location, with fast access to Canary Wharf, The West End, The City and beyond.

Happy Christmas From

All this could be yours for just €100. Treat yourself or a loved one to the gift of a competition entry now at winahomeinlondon.com Funds raised will go towards the Dermot Earley Centre of Participation and Dr Hyde Park. In addition you will also be supporting the competition charity partners: The London Irish Centre and Mayo Roscommon Hospice

P.S. You’re in with a chance of winning a fantastic Apartment in London worth £695,000! The Draw will be held on Wednesday December 30th 2020

wina home in london

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In association with

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Enter for €100 at WinAHomeInLondon.com In association with

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman Jesy Nelson (formerly) of girl band Little Mix has decided to part company with the rest of the group explaining, “I find the constant pressure of being in a girl group and living up to expectations very hard”. To be honest, I wondered why this young woman, who was (given recent revelations in her BBC documentary Odd One Out) clearly struggling, left it so long to arrive at this life saving decision. For the past decade, Little Mix have been hailed as the biggest thing since the Spice Girls, however, literally hours after their X-Factor win, every angle of poor Jesy’s body came under scrutiny. According to reports, she received a series of disgusting messages regarding her appearance with one odious creep allegedly writ-

ing “You do not deserve to be in this girl band. You deserve to die”. While I have huge empathy with Jesy, it’s clear that this hugely talented young lady has unfortunately found out the hard way that throughout our lives, we women are constantly and cruelly being evaluated, observed, appraised, criticised and judged solely on how we look. Indeed, if proof were needed, only this September I was personally ‘skinny-shamed’ by a radiographer in a certain hospital (not Roscommon hospital, the staff there are lovely), who insinuated I was to blame for having osteoporosis. In Ms. Perfect’s (far from it) opinion, I was “too skinny”. Not content with the insult, this highly unprofessional ignoramus went on to mutter,

“you look malnourished, but sure what can you expect from a vegan”. Wow… someone was feeling brave. Now I don’t normally engage in a war of words with an unarmed imbecile, and while I won’t tell you what my actual reply was (because it’s unprintable), I do hope this bitter biddy realises her make-up is never going to cover her dim-wittedness. By the way – it is not my weight, height, diet or body shape that has given me, or any other woman, osteoporosis; in my case it’s my early menopause due to undergoing a life-saving hysterectomy. But I digress… apologies. I don’t know Jesy and I’ve never really listened to Little Mix. However, I have brought my granddaughter to one of their concerts (remember con-

certs?) in the 3Arena, and looking at their on-stage ‘antics’ and barelythere outfits, I’d imagine that, like most women, whether in the limelight or not, Jesy sadly fell prey to the social pressures of trying embody society’s version of ‘perfection’. In fact, sadly I’d imagine that from the very day she joined that group, she began living someone else’s life, allowing others to influence and determine her choices. If I were her mother I’d be relieved beyond words that this beautiful, talented and clever young woman has finally refused to allow herself to become a slave to the illusions of shallow husks like the ones who commented on her appearance. However, if I were to offer Jesy, my daughters, my granddaughter and

any other woman reading this column some advice for 2021, it would be that there are so many positives to being a feisty and fabulous female. Here are just a few: We’ll always be escorted off a sinking ship first. We can scare the living daylights out of our husbands, male bosses, Gardaí, (the male ones), male members of the judiciary and just about any other male in our lives the second we mention any manner of gynaecological problems. I’ve found the mere whisper of the word ‘tampon’ can reduce most men to tears. Oh and here’s the best one, ladies: we do not, and never will, feel the need to ahem, rearrange our genitalia in public! Woo hoo! Let’s hear it for the sisterhood!

That feeling you get from a fab haircut – priceless!

Local TNR charity says ‘thank you’ to readers and supporters I’m climbing onto my animal welfare soapbox again… am I ever off it? However, this time it’s for a lovely, festive, feel-good reason. My lovely friends and fellow animal welfare supporters at TNR South Roscommon, a local charity that spays/neuters/provides veterinary care for feral cats, is offering an online ‘thank you’, a gesture of goodwill to everyone who has kindly supported them throughout this hugely difficult year. According to my good pal Orla Hanley, who runs the charity, “the last ten months have

been very challenging for charities. For us, a huge part of getting by this year was our two online charity shop pages, TNR Roscommon online charity shop, and Friends of TNR Roscommon, which is open to all other animal charities to use to raise funds, so we’d like to thank all our supporters by holding this online promotion/competition.” Yes folks, you’ve got it, instead of asking for funds (which they so desperately need and deserve, so please try to donate if you can), TNR South Roscommon are offering a prize of a €30 One for All voucher to those

who like their page, share their post and tag three friends. It’s that simple. If you take two minutes to do this small thing for a very worthy local charity, which, let’s face it, are struggling according to Orla, “you’ll be automatically entered into our competition.” The winner will be selected at random on New Year’s Eve by moi… and I feel so honoured to have been asked to do this, so thank you Orla and the rest of the volunteers for all that you do for the little ferals of this county. Bonne chance everyone!

It’s a fact: the most cheery, merry and bright Christmas marvel that can happen to any vain, fussy woman (who has, since September, been looking like she’s been wearing a sheepdog on her head), is a visit to a hair salon for a cut and a colour. Regular readers will know that recently, my darling daughter, who has been my trusted stylist, has branched into aesthetics, putting hair on the backburner, and so I needed to find a new salon locally. That salon was Aphrodite’s in the town, and from the second I walked nervously through their doors to be met by the wonderful aromas of hair dye, shampoo, gels, waxes and hairspray emanating right across each socially distanced booth, I knew I was in good hands. Thank you to owner Anne for making me feel so relaxed, for sitting down and chatting through my chosen style with me, (an undercut pixie), for being excited about cutting my hair and in general, for being an all-round lovely lady. Big thanks also to colourist Jeanette for doing a super job. Girls, I adore my new ‘do, it makes me feel (and if I say so myself, look) ten years younger. To that end, as I’m in a fab festive mood and feeling giddy and light-hearted, I’d like to inform hubby to ahem, take advantage while stocks last!

And finally…

Wishing every single one of my readers a wonderful, safe, happy and healthy Christmas. See you all in 2021. Thank you for supporting this family-focused, family-run newspaper, and remember to continue to stay local, shop local and look out for each other.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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‘An age-friendly housing technical advisor in every local authority in Ireland’ In Dublin’s Custom House, Minister of State, Peter Burke TD, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, officially launched the local authority-based, age-friendly technical advisors. This launch is an important occasion, representing another substantial development in the joint policy statement, Housing Options for Our Ageing Population, which was launched in February 2019 by both Department of Housing and Department of Health. Minister of State, Mary Butler TD, Department of Health, also attended the launch and spoke about a collaborative approach to Health and Housing for Older People in Ireland. In July 2020, Ireland’s new Programme for Government pledged a mission and vision of an Age Friendly Ireland. The approach taken in the agreed programme for government is to support older people to live in their own homes and communities with dignity and independence, for as long as possible. The programme’s ambition is to enable everyone, of all ages, to live longer, healthier lives in their own homes and communities. This vision is central to the overarching principles of the World Health Organisation’s Age Friendly Framework and core to the joint departmental housing options for our Ageing Population Policy. The aim of the housing policy is to ensure that older people will have greater choice by developing a range

of housing options that are suited to their needs, so they can plan ahead and, insofar as possible, choose the right home for them. Age Friendly Ireland has supported the development and implementation of the policy document and in response to Action 4.13: ‘Local authorities will identify and assign an individual on their housing teams to work with older people in terms of sourcing appropriate accommodation’. All Local Authorities have assigned a staff member to undertake this role so that this resource is available in all of the thirty-one local authorities across the country. A member of staff at the appropriate technical level of expertise has participated in training provided by Age Friendly Ireland to enable them to become the local authority specific age-friendly housing technical advisor. This will ensure that they can provide specialist advice to the authority itself, to private sector interests who want to get involved in providing age-friendly housing and to individuals from the public generally. Speaking at the launch, the Minister said: “The specific Action which brings us here today is Action 4.13, which introduced a novel idea that local authorities should appoint a member of staff as a technical advisor on age-friendly housing with the intent that this person would be a resource for older people, for the local authorities, and indeed for anyone

who wants to access information about age-friendly housing. “In late 2019, my Department wrote to the Chief Executives of local authorities asking them to do this, and, in the wholehearted way in which they have embraced other elements of the Age

Friendly Ireland programme they all agreed to do so”. On behalf of the Local Authority sector, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, host to the Age Friendly Ireland Shared Service said: “Today’s launch is a significant occasion, rep-

resenting another substantial development in the joint departmental housing policy and also acknowledging the sterling work of local authorities, both Departments, the Age Friendly shared service and partner organisations on the Implementation Group”.

C/O Community & Enterprise, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98 Tel.: 090 6637235 / 086 0478616 Email: info@roscommonppn.ie

Roscommon Public Participation Network (PPN) would like to wish all our members a Happy Christmas, a joyful Holiday season, and a fairer 2021 for all. Thank you for your voluntary services to Roscommon county this year

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople

A message from Cllr Anthony Waldron Waldron calls on Rossies When you’re to make a connection! at home in Roscommon this Christmas… …think of how you can help…

SAVE & PROTECT jobs here… and help create more jobs Hundreds of Roscommon people will be returning to Roscommon from different parts of Ireland – and abroad – over the festive season

Independent Cllr. Tony Waldron has called on the people of Roscommon to stand together ahead of the New Year and make a connection with loved ones who are part of the Irish diaspora. Cllr. Waldron said: “Roscommon might be considered a small county but it is one that has very big ideas and a very bright future. “Let’s all stand together this Christmas and into the New Year and work with Rossies

all over the world to make sure 2021 is a brighter year for us all. “Make that phone call to loved ones and friends who can’t make it home this Christmas. Connecting with each other can make a real difference and bring Roscommon closer to other parts of the world. “I’d like to wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas and a let’s hope for a brighter New Year for all Roscommon people, both at home and abroad”.

I am urging these Roscommon people to consider the timely Christmas and New Year gift they can give their county when they are back home Are you purchasing a property or land abroad? • If so, why not engage the services of a solicitor/auctioneer/ insurance broker in Roscommon? • Support local fundraising lotteries during your seasonal stay • Consider making purchases locally before you leave Roscommon to return home

A warm welcome and Happy Christmas to all returning Rossies

Contact: Anthony

Tel. 086 786 6774

Email: anthonywaldron@gmail.com Beautiful Christmas lighting in Lanesboro. Picture: Mick McCormack

Independent Cllr. Tony Waldron

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

8 Athlone Rd, Ballypheasan, Roscommon, Phone: (090) 662 6220.

Out of hours, lunch-time and emergency appointments’ service six days per week

Claddagh Optical – Our focus is on your eye health Claddagh Optical are delighted to formally announce that they recently moved to a new premises at Ballypheasan House, Athlone Road, Roscommon. John Weldon and Claddagh Optical have shown great commitment to eye care in this region over many years. John purchased the practice from the late Colm Hennigan about 20 years ago. Colm, who was so highly respected in the profession and in the wider community, had started his practice in 1969. At Claddagh Optical, John and his staff have become established leaders in their field. Their beautiful new premises (at Athlone Road) is a very welcoming environment. Attentive, well trained and friendly staff put customers at ease and ensure their needs are met. At Claddagh Optical, the ‘focus’ is on providing customers with the best quality service. Indeed the exceptional customer retention levels over the years is evidence of the quality of service provided, with consistent reliability, helpfulness and good communication features of what you can expect at Claddagh Optical. Individual, patient and friendly attention is given to each customer when choosing spectacles. John and his team know that in today’s style-conscious society, spectacles are not just viewed as being an eye aid, they are also a fashion statement. This is why

• Wide range of glasses available (from designer to budget) • Contact lenses specialists for adults and children • Great after-care service for repairs and adjustment • Facebook page appointments which are confirmed over the phone with friendly personal reminders • Out of hours, lunch-time and emergency appointments available six days per week • Fully digital eye examination • Retinal scanning OCT showing any abnormalities – images can be directly shared with hospital consultant by secure email • Onsite digital spectacle glazing with same day service Claddagh Optical provides a wide range of frames, which stretch from “designer to budget”. They also feature new materials such as bio-titanflex top Sunspex MAUI JIM Maui Brilliant, which, according to John has “the lightest weight and the best clarity in the world. It’s also a brand

that has cancer foundation approval for UV protection”. Claddagh Optical also provide a wide variety of spectacle lenses, including UV Blue Filter for computer-related eyestrain, something which is very common for those who stare at screens for long periods. They are also contact lens specialists, providing lenses for “adults and children, including daily disposables for single vision, multifocal and astigmatism”. And, if you’re fed up with your mask steaming up your lenses, Claddagh Optical can help with their extended wear fitting technology. Customers are treated with respect and dignity. All Covid-related guidelines are meticulously adhered to, with social distancing, sanitising, face coverings, etc. ensuring that safety is paramount. There is a huge emphasis on sanitising of equipment, frames, etc. At Claddagh Optical, they understand how important it is to place the client first. As John says: “We always thank the customer for their patronage; we always treat everyone with the respect and the dignity they so richly deserve. We offer assistance to patients to complete forms to arrange a free examination when needed, and where they are eligible under PRSI and GMS schemes”. Claddagh Optical uses the very latest and best equipment, including OCT – ocular coherence tomography – and the highest clinical standards apply. A fully digital eye examination is provided. OCT retinal scanning will identify any abnormalities, with images being directly shared with hospital consult-

John Weldon.

ants (by secure email). Onsite digital spectacle glazing is provided, with same-day service. John is very optimistic for future developments in shared care schemes which he he says will deliver better eyecare when delivered with efficiency locally. He says: “A collaborative inter-disciplinary working between optometrists

Commitment to local community Claddagh Optical’s commitment to the local community was emphasised when they made the move recently to Ballypheasan House. John says: “Apart from the topflight clinical equipment from Topcon, whose Irish operation is based in and serviced from Dublin, all work was carried out by local professional tradespeople”. To that end John and his team extend a huge thank you to the following: • Gerry Kelly (builder) • XLNT Signs • Colm Mahon (electrician) • Cohan Heating and Air conditioning

• Finneran brothers (plumbing) • Roscommon Windows • Xtra Security • Alan Somers • Fire Systems • Tom Rumley • Elphin Fitted Furniture • Paul Foxe & Company Chartered Accountants • Bríd Miller (solicitor) • Stephen McDermott

Edel and Dervila

and hospital consultants has been proven to deliver better sight-saving services, and has massively reduced waiting lists, which will save precious financial resources for the health service”. General eye care and the eye health of the people Roscommon and the region is in very good hands with the team at Claddagh Optical.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

8 Athlone Rd, Ballypheasan, Roscommon, Phone: (090) 662 6220.

Out of hours, lunch-time and emergency appointments’ service six days per week

‘This is my profession, my passion’ A visit to Claddagh Optical is a very pleasant experience. Their new premises is a stateof-the-art facility, warm, inviting and beautifully furnished. Long established in their field, John Weldon and his team at Claddagh Optical use the very latest equipment for eye examinations and subsequent engagement with hospital consultants. “This is my profession, my passion” John says as he takes the Roscommon People on a tour of the new premises. He has risen highly in his field, the affable John now serving as President of the Association of Optometrists Ireland. (An optometrist is a primary health care specialist trained to examine the eyes to detect defects in vision, and potential problems with general health). John is enthusiastic about Roscommon town and the county, and delighted that Claddagh Optical can provide a range of services of such sophistication that it increasingly is assisting with reducing workloads and waiting lists in hospitals. It is evidence

John Weldon.

John is President of Association of Optometrists Ireland John Weldon has acquired an impressive list of clinical credentials. President of the Association of Optometrists Ireland, he is the first person in the State to be awarded a Fellowship for services to the profession. John serves the Department of Health in his roles with CORU, the regulator for the Health and Social Care Professions in Ireland. His enhanced clinical

Edel, John and Dervila.

of how important services can be centralised/based in towns such as Roscommon. He works closely with local hospitals, using the very latest technology at the Roscommon premises. (John has a sister practise in Gort, Co. Galway). Noting that most people in their 40s and 50s are likely to experience some change in the quality of their eyesight, John advises that everyone should make eyecare a part of their regular health check-ups. He also advises parents to be

vigilant about their children’s eyesight, to have them checked regularly. The interior of the new premises is very attractive, stylish with a delightful ambience. When we visited, John and his staff were attending to a couple of customers with the friendliness, courtesy and respect which are trademarks of their patient-driven service. Claddagh Optical is a wonderful asset in our county town, providing a very important service for customers throughout the region.

skills, including paediatric eye care, foreign body removal under topical anaesthesia, therapeutic contact lens fitting, cataract co-management with hospital consultants, and associated prescribing for minor eye conditions. We would like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and looking forward to seeing a brighter new year for everyone.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

FarmingPeople

Cattle export trade to Northern Ireland to continue – IFA IFA President Tim Cullinan has said confirmation by Northern Ireland Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots that the important live export trade to Northern Ireland for slaughter cattle will continue with unfettered access to the UK market, regardless of the outcome of Brexit, is significant. He said IFA has had regular contact with the UFU to ensure the established trade between both jurisdictions can continue to function unhindered. Tim Cullinan said the NI market provides vital competition for Irish beef farmers with finished cattle, and has performed very strongly this year. “Live exports to date this year to NI of over 60,000 cattle are primarily for direct slaughter and is

IFA President Tim Cullinan

up 91% on 2019. Today’s confirmation ensures this vital market outlet will not be affected by Brexit and is predicted to grow further in 2021,” he said.

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IFA launches ‘Be Safe and Secure in 2021’ campaign IFA, together with An Garda Síochána and FBD, has launched a printed information pack for its members across the country, providing tips on how farmers and the rural community can stay safe and secure in their homes, on their farms and online in the months ahead. This initiative highlights the need for vigilance in many areas with practical and straightforward information on safety, security and general wellbeing as well as the importance of looking out for your friends, family and neighbours. IFA Deputy President Brian Rushe said: “When we entered 2020, we never imagined the year that lay ahead of us. Covid-19 has fundamentally changed the way we be-

have at home and on our farms. The team in IFA, including our President, myself, the National Officers and elected County and Branch Officers, have worked hard over the last nine months to drive our ongoing work schedule and get the very best for Irish farmers during this ongoing period of uncertainty. “As we look ahead to 2021, we must continue to prioritise safety on our farms and in our homes and look out for those that may need assistance in our communities. We are proud of the strong relationship that exists between ourselves, An Garda Siochàna, and our insurance partners, FBD. We hope this guide will provide practical information to help and support

you, your family and your neighbours in the months ahead”. An Garda Siochana’s Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman said: “Since my appointment in May 2020, I’m delighted to continue to build on the partnership between IFA and An Garda Siochàna, and we are delighted to

support the IFA’s ‘Be Safe and Secure in 2021’ campaign. As we navigate through the winter period together, I want to reassure you that we in An Garda Síochána are here to help, to work with communities to ensure the support you need is available. “If you need anything,

please do not hesitate to contact your local Garda Station or phone your Local Authority Helpline. With dark evenings and mornings upon us, the need for road safety and ‘Be Safe Be Seen’ is as vital as ever. Whether waking, cycling or driving, preparing for the road trip is essential”.

Initial Brexit fund for farming must be ready to go on January 1st IFA President Tim Cullinan has said that the Government Brexit fund for Irish farming must be ready to go on January 1st. “Brexit contingency funding was set aside in the last two Budgets. It is reported that the Minister for Agriculture is now mobilising €400 million of this to support farmers. When put in the context of a no deal Brexit that would cost the agri-food sector €1.5bn annually in tariffs alone – this fund

won’t go far if we have a no deal,” he said. “Recently, IFA was invited to address the European Parliament’s Agricultural Committee and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture on IFA’s Brexit Emergency Plan. It was clear that there is a good understanding of how severely Irish farming will be hit by Brexit. “We must also ensure that Irish farmers are first in line for the €5bn

EU Brexit fund. “We are still hopeful of a Brexit deal, but even if that happens, there will be non-tariff costs and a risk that Irish product will be undercut by cheap imports to the UK from outside the EU. Irish farmers are already feeling the effects of currency fluctuations. It is clear that immediate support is needed, and needed fast,” he said. Even in the event of a trade deal, Irish farmers in vulnerable sec-

tors such as livestock will require meaningful long-term structural adjustment support from the EU €5bn Brexit Adjustment Fund, the IFA President stressed. “We are also having regular meetings with the Ulster Farmers Union and the National Farmers Union in the UK. It is clear that farmers in the EU and the UK all want a deal, but we also need the Government and the EU to be ready with support,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

NewsPeople

ROBERT FLYNN

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A group of pioneers pictured at Corbo Bog in 1957, saving turf to sell in order to subsidise a trip to the seaside. The turf bank was donated by the Walshe family of Corbo, Roscommon. Front row: Mary Kennedy (nee Walshe), Tommy Ward, Jack Mannion, Mick Walshe, Tommy Hunt, Annie Farrell. Second row: PJ ‘Bird’ Noone, Brendan Madden, Michael Kennedy (child), PJ Ward, Jimmy McDermott, Paddy Healy, Peter Raftery, Joe Finneran, Geraldine Walshe, Seamus Gillooly. Third row: Tommy Raftery, Kieran Gavigan, Paul Raftery, Pa Dowling, Unknown, Michael Hussy, Pat Farrell (with hat), next two persons unknown, Eamon Connor, Fr. Tommy Martin, John Sexton. It is known that all but eight of those in photograph have died. May they rest in peace. The group were members of Derrane/Fourmilehouse PTAA.

ICA’s Christmas gifts for nursing home residents Roscommon Town ICA Guild is an active, vibrant branch of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association. We have thirty-nine members. In the spirit of the ICA, we give to various charities through fundraising, especially at Christmas. This year, our main charitable event is gifting the residents of

the Sacred Heart Hospital with Christmas gifts. The year 2020 will be known as the Covid-19 year. It has affected everyone, but most acutely the residents of nursing homes. With the curtailment of visits, social events, entertainment, etc., we thought it would be a nice gesture to get each

resident an appropriate gift, in consultation with staff. Our members, as usual, were very generous, and this enabled us to buy lovely gifts for the residents. On December 16th, it was our pleasure to deliver the gifts to staff, led by Mary Higgins and residents.

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Late Detective Horkan to be honoured with memorial pitch at local club

Pictured is the late Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Photo: The late Tommy Eibrand

In memory of their late friend and clubmate, Detective Colm Horkan, who was shot dead while on duty in Castlerea earlier this year, Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club are launching plans to develop a new all-weather pitch at Fr. O’Hara Park, to be named ‘The Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch’. The development, which will include new community walkways and facility upgrades, will provide the club with a new state-of-the-art, fully floodlit allweather playing pitch, providing fantastic new facilities for his beloved club and the wider community to enjoy for years to come. The project, which will take three years to complete, will require significant funding, and the club will be applying through various Sports Capital Pro-

grammes and other national and regional funding streams as well as seeking support from the local community and wider diaspora to complete the project. A statement from the club read: ‘As a club and community we are still struggling to comprehend the shocking events of Wednesday, June 17th, when Colm was cut down in the prime of his life while doing the job he loved in the best way he knew how. He touched the lives of many in the communities of Charlestown and beyond, with dignity and regalness characterising his every action and deed. He loved his town, a place where many great friendships and bonds were moulded. ‘Colm, who would have celebrated his 50th birthday on Sunday, December 13th, loved his football and served Charlestown Sarsfields with distinction over

the course of a long, stellar and star-studded career. He donned the green and white jersey with honour and excellence and took centre stage in many of our finest successes in a career that saw him reach some marvellous heights. He played with courage, intelligence and intensity and brought tremendous passion to the fields of play, with O’Hara Park his domain and the scene of many of his greatest performances. ‘He inspired his team and led from the front at all times. His quality and sheer class will forever remain intact and his kindness, modesty and heroism will stay etched in our memories and consciousness for many a long day’. Commenting on the launch of the project, Liam Breheny, Chairperson of Charlestown Sarsfields

GAA Club, said: “As a club, we have been touched by the hundreds of messages and support received since the tragic passing of our clubmate and friend. The goodwill being shown and the offers of support from people, both locally and nationally – as well as from the diaspora around the world – for this project has been heart-warming, and the development of the new pitch and community walkways in his honour will be a fitting legacy for the great man, as well as creating a facility for the community to enjoy for generations to come – something I know he would be immensely proud of”. The club have launched a new website to support this project, so for more information on how you can donate to the project, please visit colmhorkanmemorialpitch.com.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Wishing all of our readers, advertisers and correspondents a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year

The local paper! Abbey Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 34633

E.: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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â€˘ Please note that a contribution is being made to a local charity in lieu of Christmas Cards and Gifts.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Heritage is Nollaig’s passion

A multimedia Christmas campaign

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

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What I do ...

Nollaig Feeney, Heritage Officer, Roscommon County Council

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Where does your day take you? I do the school drop-offs and then it’s back home to my kitchen ‘office’ or into Roscommon town if it’s a day that I am scheduled to be in the Roscommon County Council offices.

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

What do you listen to in the office? I wouldn’t normally listen to the radio as it would distract me from my work. I’ve had Shannonside FM on a bit at lunchtime lately because I’ve been running a #NatureisGoodForYou campaign on it, so I’ve been keeping an ear out for the radio adverts!

Health Food Store GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON

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What do you do for lunch? Dinner is in the middle of the day in my house, so it’s a school pick-up at 2 pm, eat dinner and back to work. Best thing about your job? The variety. No two days are the same. Heritage covers a huge range of things from historic buildings, archaeology, biodiversity, oral history and much more. Meeting people and trying to help them with their heritage queries and projects is what I like best about it. I couldn’t meet as many people as I would have liked this year, but hopefully that will get back to some kind of normal in 2021. Worst thing about your job? I could get a query on absolutely anything under the sun. Thankfully, if I don’t know the answer myself, one of my Heritage Officer colleagues around the country will be able to help me out.

‘Stay Local, Shop Local’ campaign Cathaoirleach Cllr. Laurence Fallon and Roscommon County Council have launched the ‘Stay Local, Shop Local’ campaign, which aims to encourage everyone to shop local this Christmas. Now more than ever it is so important to support your local town and businesses. By supporting them, you are supporting your local community, so Stay Local and Shop Local. In support of the ‘Stay Local, Shop Local’ campaign, Roscommon County Council are holding a competition for all of the loyal

local shoppers out there. To be in with a chance of winning one of three €500 vouchers for a Roscommon shop of your choice, take a picture of your receipt, and send it in to staylocalshoplocal@ roscommoncoco.ie. Receipts must be for non-grocery items of €50 or more (on one item) from a shop in County Roscommon. Receipts must be from December 2020, and one receipt is allowed per entry. The closing date for the competition is December 31st, 2020, and the winners will be announced on January 8th, 2021.

What time do you clock off? I clock off around 6 pm each evening. Who’s at home? My mother-in-law Jo, who has been great company on long days working from home, my husband Seamus, and sons Seán and Caillin. How do you wind down in the evening? I’d like to say I do something wonderful like yoga or meditation to wind down, but the truth is I park myself on a comfy couch in front of the fire and TV! If I manage to get my hands on the remote control then that’s a big bonus!

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

Santa spotted in Roscommon town! < DAN DOONER

Covid-19 restrictions may have dampened some of the Christmas spirit in Roscommon town this year but it certainly didn’t stop Santa Claus from visiting one of his favourite towns last Saturday evening. The North Pole toy supremo had been in touch with his friends and hard-working volunteers in the Christmas Lights committee and agreed to pay a surprise visit to estates around the town last weekend. Local businessman, Eamonn Gleeson, said Santa’s visit had to be top secret. “Normally he would be brought up the town to switch on the Christmas lights but this year, due to the restrictions, we had to keep it low-key. “It was very much a surprise visit but all the kids were delighted to see him as he made his way around the estates, thanks to hard-working volunteers,” Mr. Gleeson said. It is believed that Santa had been in Ireland since last month as he self-isolated for a period of two weeks in accordance with Covid guidelines. The Roscommon People can now reveal that Mr. Claus has been working remotely within the county and has submitted a series of letters to the children of Roscommon via this newspaper. *You can support the Roscommon Christmas Lights committee by going to www.idonate.ie and giving what you can to the Roscommon Christmas Lights Fund 2020

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

A multimedia Christmas campaign

Mahon Sweeney – Modern firm with traditional values Lorraine Miley, office manager, Síofra Mahon, receptionist, pictured at Mahon Sweeney Solicitors in Roscommon town earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

#RoscommonTogether < DAN DOONER

Mahon Sweeney Solicitors is a modern firm with extensive knowledge of the local community and the challenges it has faced this year. The business is run by husband and wife team, Seán Mahon and Marie Conroy, and has offices in Roscommon town and Elphin. It provides services in commercial law, family and divorce law, property, medical negligence, accident claims, and wills and inheritance law. Mahon Sweeney moved to new, modern offices at The

Square in Roscommon town two years ago and Seán says the company hasn’t looked back since. “It’s a customised office too, which makes life much easier in terms of organising dedicated meeting rooms, wheelchair access and of course better staff facilities”. “It also made this year easier in terms of Covid-19,” Marie adds. “The lay-out allows for more confidentiality and access to the (County Council) car park at the back. Clients can be assured of privacy when attending meetings at the office”. As well as the privacy provided by Mahon Sweeney’s new offices, the firm also of-

“

fers Zoom meetings for clients in the ‘at risk’ category in terms of Covid.

“Our staff are excellent and have continued to give 100% even throughout this difficult year. We are a team and we couldn’t keep going without them.”

Solicitors Niamh Mahon and Lorraine Feeney pictured at Mahon Sweeney Solicitors in Roscommon town earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack.

Legal secretaries Eileen Harte, Annie Tarmey, and Aoife Treacy pictured at Mahon Sweeney Solicitors in Roscommon town earlier this week. Pic: Mick McCormack

Mahon Sweeney is very much a team effort – as is evident as soon as you are greeted by staff at the front door – and both Seán and Marie were quick in paying tribute to their colleagues including solicitors, Lorraine Feeney and Seán’s sister, Niamh Mahon. “Our office manager, Lorraine Miley, would have been instrumental in terms of our systems and in setting up our website, which went online last year. “Our staff are excellent and have continued to give 100% even throughout this difficult year. We are a team and we couldn’t keep going without them,” Marie said. Staff members Aoife Treacy, Eileen Harte, Annie Tarmey and Liz Connaughton have certainly played their part in this, the most difficult of years. “Business has obviously been significantly affected with a reduction both in transactions and work in general and now it’s really a question of what comes next year,” said Seán. “The Government supports aren’t going to be continued and so it’s a question of whether the economy picks up. “By and large, it’s down to our own resilience, both in terms of our own business and businesses in Roscommon. It’s also down to people in Roscommon saying: ‘There’s adversity in front of us and we now have to meet it head on’”. For Mahon Sweeney, there has been increased demand for services such as wills and inheritance and other personal services, as Marie explains. “Covid-19 has been an extraordinary event in all of our

Pictured at their Roscommon town office earlier this week were husband and wife team, Séan Mahon and Marie Conroy, partners, Mahon Sweeney Solicitors. Pic: Mick McCormack

lives but it has given people a chance to take stock. Solicitors aren’t a service you use daily unless you’re buying a house or need them for something immediate. But because people were working from home, they may have stood back and decided to take control of something they had put off in the past. “We found there has been an uptake in services such as wills and inheritance and perhaps among farmers hoping to put plans in place for the next generation,” she said.

There has also been an increase in people returning to buy homes in Roscommon, thanks to remote working opportunities and the quality of life on offer here. “People who have traditionally gone away are now staying in the locality and we are very grateful that people who made the move back from Dublin or the UK are choosing a local solicitor. Thanks to our local knowledge; when someone comes into us we are not just looking at the transaction but at the bigger picture,” Marie said.

#Roscommon RoscommonTogether Together

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

A multimedia Christmas campaign

‘We are right behind #RoscommonTogether!’ Addressing the ongoing Roscommon Together campaign, Seán Mahon, who is a former President of Roscommon Chamber, says the town is once again showing its resilience. “The Roscommon Together campaign was thought up by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the actual Chamber name is Roscommon Together Ltd. That was formed seven years ago and that concept of coming together is particularly relevant at the moment. “It’s a fantastic campaign aimed at reminding everyone that every business in this town, just like Mahon Sweeney, is providing an income for a number of families. It’s not just about the name over the door and we hope that by supporting this campaign that we’re reminding people that it’s not just the business you’re supporting but also the people behind it. “The last twenty years have shown that we have survived no matter what has taken place and we can and will

continue to survive as long as we support each other,” Seán added. Seán’s wife and partner at the firm, Marie Conroy, believes Roscommon boasts a variety of shops and services to rival any other town. “If you look around the town you can see the quality of services on offer. We have lovely restaurants and coffee shops and we can be proud of the shops, businesses, and professional services that are available in Roscommon. They are equal to, if not better, than services in larger towns and cities,” she said. Marie highlighted the importance for businesses and people to show willingness to change and adapt to ongoing challenges, and Seán agrees. “There are always going to be challenges in any business or in any town and I think it’s a mark of the town and the community that we are able to rise to the challenges. I have no doubt that we will continue to do that”. Pictured are the offices of Mahon Sweeney Solicitors LLP at The Market Square, Roscommon town. Pic: Mick McCormack

The Management and Staff at Fleming’s SuperValu would like to wish our Customers a Happy, Peaceful and most of all Safe Christmas.

We thank you all for your custom and support during the year that was 2020, and look forward to seeing you all in the New Year. Shane & Orla Fleming

Fleming’s SuperValu Main Street, Roscommon

Real Food, Real People

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Christmas greetings from around Roscommon

Keep New Year’s resolutions achievable < MIRIAM KERINS

As we come to the end of what has been a horrific year, I’ll bet every single one of us is looking forward to welcoming in 2021 as an ideal opportunity to make a fresh start. Therefore, if you’re someone who has decided to use the pandemic as a launch pad to make some meaningful New Year’s resolutions but aren’t quite sure where to start, we’ve got a couple of pointers we

hope you’ll find helpful. On New Year’s Eve, as the clock ticks down, there’s a promise that 2021 will provide us all with a sense of renewal and new opportunities. And, as we look back on a 2020 full of fear and dread, of mask wearing and restricted travel, home-schooling, job losses, and most tragic of all, the loss of loved ones, let me say that if you’ve managed to get this far, you’re a strong, resilient and resourceful hu-

man being. Well done. However, in order to help you navigate the pandemic recovery period of (hopefully) successful vaccines and a return to normality, it’s important to maximise your chances of sticking to your New Year’s resolutions by keeping your expectations not just in perspective, but also keeping them achievable. Sort out your finances: If you’ve got a maxed-out credit card or a large ESB/ gas bill etc., why not con-

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2020 from

Contact Charlie: 087 2725297 Cloverhill, Roscommon. Tel: 090 6627907 Fax: 090 6628928 Email: doortec2@hotmail.com A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2020 from

BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON

TEL: 086 2549815 OR 094 96 55340

STOCKISTS OF CAR, COMMERCIAL AND AGRICULTURAL TYRES AT UNBEATABLE PRICES WE ALSO STOCK YUASA CAR, TRUCK AND TRACTOR BATTERIES. ALL MAJOR CARD TYPES ACCEPTED

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2020 from

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre

Four Mile House Community Playgroup CLG Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon Tel/Fax: 090 66 29844 CHY 12629 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com

Wishing all our local Community a very Happy Christmas and thank you for all your support during 2020 from

Kilbride Community Centre Bernie: 086 6000755 Ita: 086 1636578

Kilbride Community Bus is available to all, card payments are now accepted in Community shop

Astro Turf Pitch Available

Bishop Paul Dempsey, Bishop of Achonry and Noel Gibbons, Kilgarriff Funeral Directors Ballaghaderreen pictured recently at the blessing of the Nativity Scene on Pound Street in Ballaghaderreen.

I ho-ho-hope you have fun with my top five Christmas karaoke picks!

< MIRIAM KERINS

The tree is in position, the drinks have been poured and most importantly, the windows are shut in order to protect the neighbours’ ears… this means only one thing in our house – yep, it’s Christmas karaoke time. Now, while many of you wouldn’t dream of singing in front of a group of strangers, the fact is that once you get a whiff of that Christmas spirit, sure there’ll be no holding back your inner diva. Here are my top five, I ho-hohope you like them! 1. Wham! ‘Last Christmas’: Now while I am always full to the brim with festive cheer, and I do know this song is a touch melancholy, it’s still a great one for everyone to

join in – even the tone-deaf warblers in the family. 2. The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale of New York’: My all-time favourite, and not just because it finds itself under scrutiny year in, year out. I mean come on; the annual arguments around censoring this classic are about as dependable as your Nana becoming intoxicated before dinnertime! By the way, does anyone think Bon Jovi’s cleaned-up version is about as anticlimactic and pathetically clichéd as my mid-life crisis motorbike? 3. Mariah Carey’s ‘All I want for Christmas’: Unless you can perform an impressive range of vocal gymnastics like Ms Carey, then take my advice and do not attempt this seasonal blockbuster’s relentless mix of high notes. I’ve tried

and let me say it didn’t end well. It wasn’t worth the humiliation, shame and regret when the family begged me to make their wish come true and er, shut up! 4. Bing Crosby’s ‘I’ll be home for Christmas’: This one defo has a hint of nostalgia and, given the travel restrictions, will be guaranteed to bring a tear to your eye. Originally written as a moving tribute to the soldiers fighting in the Second World War, this week, as many readers are unsure of what to do about travelling to see their loved ones given the mixed messages from government, this classic’s lyrics are certainly guaranteed to hit home. 5. José Feliciano’s ‘Feliz Navidad’: I love this upbeat bi-lingual yuletide dance hit because it re-

minds me of our Christmas spent in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria (not the Caribbean one, we’re not made of money). Ok I don’t speak Spanish like hubby, but I can certainly join in at the English part. Altogether now…three, two, one…oh, I wanna wish you a merry Christmas, I wanna wish you a merry Christmas, I wanna wish you a merry Christmas from the bottom of my heaaa-aaarrrt!

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Christmas greetings from around Roscommon

– and above all, be kind to yourself! tact your bank or energy supplier on January 2nd to arrange a doable payment plan that won’t impact too much on your family’s budget? Ok it’s not exactly exciting stuff but if you’ve lost work due to the impact of the virus, taking this important step should be seen as a victory and you and your family can continue to build on the progress by perhaps saving in the local credit union. There you are, we’ve sorted 2021’s holiday fund for you! Make it realistic: Keep

your expectations within your grasp; as in assign yourself a set of sub-goals and work towards them. For example, if you’re planning to run a marathon, start out by doing a series of three kilometres a day as opposed to trying to walk/run ten kilometres all in one exhausting go! Be kind to yourself and your loved ones: As you wave goodbye to 2020 and all its stresses, negativity, difficulties and hardships, and as you embark on 2021, do try to resolve to

give yourself a much deserved break. Remember, 2020 has sent every single one of us on a journey of prolonged anxiety and stress. Therefore, if you, like me, can’t cope with not being in control and have a tendency to be over critical of yourself, then use 2021 as a time to pause, to take a few deep breaths and remember and recognise all of the wonderful people and the positive things present in your life. That’s what I’ve resolved to do.

My top five feel-good festive movies < MIRIAM KERINS

Miracle on 34th Street

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Love Actually

Whether it’s Miracle on 34th Street, Last Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life or The Happiest Season (which is apparently ‘the first LGBTQ+ movie from a Hollywood studio’ – due to coronavirus it was diverted online), the fact is, there’s nothing like a feel-good movie to psyche us up for the festive season. Therefore, this week, as readers snuggle down with the family, drink mulled wine, gorge on mince pies and tubs of Pringles, I thought I’d walk you through a few of my own classic yuletide gems. 1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: It has been over thirty years since its release, and today this is still my favourite ‘go to’ feel-good Christmas movie of all time. Why? Quite simply because Clark Griswold and his family are highly relatable! This movie has got it all: Christmas squabbles escalating into murderous tendencies and the possibility of financial ruin in a bid to host that fun, old fashioned family Christmas. 2. Die Hard: Ok, not really relatable because you know what, I’ve never spent my Christmas Eve fighting off a gang of terrorists at the Nakatomi Plaza, but if I’m honest, Bruce Willis as John McClane can defo squeeze my Christmas trigger any time. Oops did I say that out loud? Hubby’s favourite Christmas gem is Gremlins, and as I haven’t been bur-

gled or beaten up by a gang of murderous Mogwais either, I reckon we’re all entitled to a little bit of yuletide escapism, especially given the year we’ve all had. Yippee-ki-yaaay! 3. Jingle All The Way: If you prefer those chestnutroasting, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, rather-stick-ablunt-instrument-in-youreye movies (kids do not do this at home…or anywhere else for that matter), then Arnold Schwarzenegger’s workaholic leave-it-to-thelast-minute-to-buy-presents Howard is your man. Or rather your turbo Man! 4. Love Actually: Yes it’s cheesy, yes it’s cringeinducing, but it’s got Liam Neeson. And yes, I prefer him as the vengeful badass in Taken, which wasn’t even a good movie, but it did propel the gorgeous Liam as Brian Mills into another category of dependable and trustworthy, yet kick-ass cool former CIA operative, so I’ll forgive him for Love Actually! 5. Bad Santa: This cult classic is not one for the kids folks! I repeat, not for sensitive eyes and ears, so put the cherubs to bed, grab a Christmas cocktail and enjoy Billy Bob Thornton’s whiskey-sodden, safe-cracking, meanspirited Willie T Soke as a department store Santa who pukes in the snow and gets jiggy with a customer in the ladies’ loo! Yep, Willie’s more crass than Christmas but this movie made me laugh out loud.

A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2020 from

Naughton’s

Car Sales Ltd.

BALLYDANGAN, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

Telephone: 090 9673411 / 087 232 2230. Fax: 090 9673411. Website: www.naughtonsgarage.ie

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at the

Thank you for your continued support throughout this year Kilduff Construction would like to thank everyone for their custom and support in 2020 and wish everyone a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Glanduff, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Donal Kilduff 086 8579459 e: info@kilduff.ie w: www.kilduff.ie A very Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your support in 2020 from

MICHAEL KENNY CAR SALES Galway Road Athlone Tel.: 090 6437103 Mobile: 086 8187103

ALL MAKES OF NEW AND USED CARS SUPPLIED & SERVICED

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2021

NewsPeople Funding for animal welfare groups Local animal welfare groups received a welcome boost following Wednesday’s announcement that the Government will award €3.2 million to 101 organisations nationwide. Three groups in Roscommon are set to benefit with €22,000 for Castlerea-based Roscommon SPCA, €11,000 for Fairyglen Community Animal Sanctuary in Arigna, and €3,500 for TNR South Roscommon in Mount Talbot. Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice said the funding would provide a timely boost for those involved in animal welfare in Co. Roscommon. “This is great news and very much welcomed. This funding will provide much-needed assistance to those working hard to take care of animals in the county. I know, for example, of the great efforts made by Roscommon SPCA and I’m delighted that these hard-working volunteers have received this funding and that they will put it to good use,” he said. Independent councillor Kathleen Shanagher also welcomed news of the funding. “This is great news because there are a lot of volunteers working with these organisations in County Roscommon. It’s wonderful that they have received this funding which will keep these services open,” she said.

Pictured at ceremony in Elphin which saw the unveiling of a memorial stone and banjo sculpture to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of Percy French were (left to right) Michael Rock, Fr. J.J. Gannon, Finbarr Feely and Barry Feely (Feeleystone), Sean Neary, Cllr. Valerie Byrne, Roscommon County Council CEO Eugene Cummins and Michael John Croghan. Pic: Mick McCormack

Marking the centenary of the death of Percy French…

CEO of Roscommon County Council, Eugene Cummins, addresses those gathered at an event to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of Percy French in Elphin last Thursday. Pic: McCormack

Finbarr Feeley addresses those gathered at an event to mark the 100th anniversary of Percy French in Elphin last Thursday. Pic: McCormack

A banjo sculpted out of steel which was designed by local man, Niall Dockery, and is now situated in the cemetery near the Old Cathedral in Elphin. Pic: Mick McCormack

Weirdest Christmas traditions from around the world!

< AMY CASEY

Christmas is a massive occasion all around the world and is celebrated by over 2 billion people in over 160 countries. We all have our own Christmas traditions but here are some of the weirdest ones in other countries… 1: Japan KFC is a much-loved brand worldwide and is enjoyed daily by many people in Ireland. However, it is tradition to eat KFC for Christmas dinner in Japan. Demand is so high that an online service has even been created to cater for the surge in orders. The Xmas Family Bucket has to be ordered in advance and has to be delivered. Reservations also have to be made in advance in order to grab a table at the fast food restaurant on Christmas Day! 2.Venezuela Many people all around the world go to mass on Christmas morning but not

in the same way that Venezuelans do, where it is tradition to roller skate! It is estimated that nearly 70% of people glide to mass rather than walk. Rollerskating is so popular in the capital, Caracas, that many main streets are closed until 8 am on Christmas morning to give the public a safe passage to travel.

3. Ukraine Putting up the Christmas tree is a special occasion for many people in the lead-up to Christmas, however it’s done a little differently in the Ukraine. Spider webs are hung on the tree every year; a tradition which stems from an old story traditionally told every Christmas. A poor widow and her children had grown a Christmas tree from a pinecone, but once it was big enough to be decorated for the holidays they realized they had no money to decorate this tree. On the night before Christmas, spiders heard her children crying over the lack of decorations on the tree and

so they went to work and decorated it themselves. Hanging spider webs symbolises good luck and has become a long-standing tradition.

4. Netherlands In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas (Santa Clause) comes on the evening of December 5th, the day before St. Nicholas’ day on December 6th. Shoes are left at the windowsill or a fireplace and Sinterklaas delivers gifts to children in their shoes. A knock during dinner may reveal a sack of gifts left on the doorstep that is opened later that night. 5. Germany It is tradition in Germany to have a green glass shaped pickle hung on the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. On Christmas morning, the child that finds the pickle first either receives an additional present or is entitled to open their gifts first. For adults, spotting the pickle is considered good luck.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Business

New Year, new look for Royal Hotel in Boyle! Refurbishment of the old Royal Hotel site in Boyle will begin in the New Year after the contracts for the work were signed at Roscommon County Council offices last Wednesday (16th). The refurbishment, which is funded by the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF) from the Department of Rural and Community Development and Roscommon County Council is due to commence in mid-January. Speaking at the signing, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Laurence Fallon said: “I welcome this project, it is a really important day for the town of Boyle and the members of the council have been very supportive of this project from its outset”. Elliott Properties Limited have been awarded the contract, and DeBlacam and Meagher Architects are the design consultants for the project. The refurbishment will involve the redevelopment of the old Royal Hotel site into a landing space for start-up businesses and exhibition space.

It will also include the development of a riverside promenade and civic space which will completely transform this riverside location in the heart of the town. “We purchased the old Royal Hotel site, with the support of the members, as a statement of our vision for Boyle as outlined in the Boyle 2040 Framework plan. Today marks the next step in realising the ambition for Boyle town and it follows on from a number of initiatives which have begun to transform the town and realise its untapped potential”, stated Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council. Mr. Cummins acknowledged the work of the Regeneration Unit in bringing the project to this stage. He also thanked the Boyle Town Team for their support. This project is the first of many capital investments throughout the county which will commence in 2021 and are made possible through the Project Ireland 2040 investment programme.

Pictured at the signing of the contract for the refurbishment of the old Royal Hotel site in Boyle at Áras and Chontae on Wednesday, December 16th were (front row, left to right): Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council; Cllr. Laurence Fallon, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council, and Paul Elliott, Contractor, Elliott Properties Ltd. Back row (left to right): Adrian Kielty, SEE, Regeneration Unit, Roscommon County Council; Nollaig Whyte, SEO, Regeneration Unit, Roscommon County Council; Majella Hunt, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council; James Kelly and Daryl Cody, DeBlacam & Meagher Architects. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Dolan presses Varadkar on need for investment in Ballinasloe Senator Aisling Dolan met with Tánaiste Leo Varadkar recently to seek an update on the prospects for much-needed investment in the Ballinasloe area. This followed the Tánaiste’s meeting with the West Regional Enterprise Plan’s (REPs) steering group at which the need for investment in the Ballinasloe area was highlighted. The REPs steering group is chaired by private sector business people and comprises of representatives of the Local Authorities, LEOs, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Regional Skills Fora, Higher and Further Education Institutes, enterprise champions and others. Senator Dolan said: “A strong focus of the Tánaiste’s meeting with the West Regional Group was on the urgent need for investment in the Ballinasloe region with the recent loss of jobs with Aptar and Bord na Móna. It is the end of an era with the closure recently of the Shannonbridge Power Station. “Ballinasloe has a great quality of life, great

clubs and schools, easy access to the motorway, and it’s less than an hour and 20 minutes to Dublin Airport. And, with the new Technological University less than fifteen minutes away in Athlone, we have a lot to offer potential employers”. The Senator outlined to the Tánaiste that the Ballinasloe area would be an ideal choice for investment, in particular with availability of the Aptar premises, which measures over 65,000 square metres, and with potential for expansion within the IDA Business Park. Senator Dolan said that while Deputy Varadkar spoke about positive jobs’ news in Diligent in Galway and Harmac Medical in Castlerea, he acknowledged the fact that the region has also suffered job losses. Senator Dolan said that she is committed to driving investment into this region and will continue to work closely with the Tánaiste to achieve much-needed investment and jobs in the Ballinasloe area.

Naughten welcomes commitment on land

Senator Aisling Dolan

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

Deputy Denis Naughten has welcomed a commitment by An Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, to ask the IDA to consider acquiring land from the HSE for industrial investment in Ballinasloe. The Tánaiste was responding to a request in Dáil Éireann from Denis Naughten for the IDA to acquire the fifty acres of land in the town that Minister Varadkar had described as “underutilised” following his meeting with development agencies in the West. “While this engagement by the Tánaiste is very welcome, it should have happened five months ago when the Aptar announcement was first made. I should not have had to take this matter to the floor of Dáil Éireann last month before the meeting finally took place,” said Denis Naughten. “I now hope that something positive can come from what is a huge blow to the town and Aptar employees. I asked the Tánaiste not only to ensure that the IDA secures and develops the fifty acres of land in question, but that it also constructs an advance factory to capitalise on the demand for such lands and facilities across the midland towns”. Responding to Denis Naughten, Minister Varadkar pointed out that the IDA is actively marketing the Aptar plant as well as pointing out the planning that is in place for a further 15,000 square feet plant on the IDA lands in the town. “I also asked the Tánaiste to ensure that we now have a co-ordinated marketing strategy for a unique IDA site with such a large State-owned land holding that has access to gas, water, wastewater and fibre in abundance,” concluded Denis Naughten.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

from your

Local Representatives

Thank you for your support in 2020 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Thank you for your support in 2020 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Cllr. Laurence FALLON

Deputy

CATHAOIRLEACH, ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

‘Please shop local. When shopping online, support local businesses’

Frank Feighan

BRIDGE STREET, BOYLE

Ballagh, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 090 6488232 M: 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie

Clinic Times: 23 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week

086 8331234

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

Contact me on Email: frank.feighan@oireachtas.ie

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2021 Cllr

John Naughten

ARDKEENAN, DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

(090) 6437928 / (087) 9019334

E.: cllrjnaughten@roscommoncoco.ie

Wishing all my family, friends, constituents, CEO and staff of Roscommon County Council a very Happy Christmas and all the best in 2021

SENATOR

EUGENE MURPHY 090 6625722 071 9633000

eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie

Independent member of Roscommon County Council and a full time public representative.

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

Independent Community Councillor

Cllr. Kathleen

SHANAGHER Ard Aoibhinn, Athlone Road, Roscommon

Tel: 086 3726743

• email: cllrkshanagher@roscommoncoco.ie Shop Local, Strengthen Your Local Economy and Invest in Your Community.

Season’s greetings to one and all from

CLLR. LIAM CALLAGHAN COUNCILLOR FOR THE BOYLE AREA

Contact me with any issues on 086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie

Season’s greetings to all from

Cllr. ORLA

LEYDEN Mobile:

087 2819918 “Working with the Community”

cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie Season’s greetings to all.

Hard working and dedicated UM EN B

UM Tel: 087 6829049 EN B E: mconnolly@cllr.galwaycoco.ie W: www.cllrmichaelconnolly.com

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2021

Tel: (090) 64 88294 or Mobile: (087) 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net

Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon 087 6440534

Cllr. Tony Ward Nora and family

Cllr. John Keogh

VOT

Thank you for your support in 2020 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Thank you for your support in 2020 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

VOT

Season’s Greetings

Moyloughmore, Moylough, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway STAY HOME, STAY SAFE CONTINUE TO GET THINGS DONE CONTINUE TO GET THINGS DONE

MICHAEL MICHAEL

CONNOLLY CONNOLLY Please continue your preference for my colleagues

MIKE KELLY & KENNETH O’BRIEN

Please continue your preference for my colleagues

DONAL KILDUFF

MIKE KELLY & KENNETH O’BRIEN

Thank you for your support in 2020 and a very Happy Christmas to all from

Cllr. Tom Crosby Strokestown/Boyle Electoral Area MOBILE 086 6005530 www.tomcrosby.ie

Athlone Local Electoral Area Roscommon County Council

INDEPENDENT Best wishes for 2021

Phone: 086 8579459

Email: cllrdkilduff@roscommoncoco.ie

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

Michael Fitzmaurice TD Mobile:

086 1914565 Thank you for your support in 2020 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from Michael, Maria and family

Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

facebook.com/ tomcrosby twitter.com/cllrtomcrosby Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Cllr. NIGEL

DINEEN INDEPENDENT

CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Many thanks for your support throughout the year, it was greatly appreciated. Season’s greetings to all

Stay Local - Shop Local Support Local

Cllr Marty McDermott,

From

Leas-Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council

Tel. 087 3466064

Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople E-MAIL: ldowdproperties@gmail.com

SOL

D SOL

WEB: www.lorettadowdpropertylettings.com SOL

D No. 19 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro

E SAL ED E AG R

No. 16 Chestnut Grove, Tulsk, Co Roscommon

E SAL ED E R G A

No. 57 The Spinney Roscommon Town

SOL

Foxford, Co Mayo

19 The Fairways, Golf Links Road Roscommon Town

Slevinagee Golf Links Road Roscommon Town

Loretta Dowd wishes to thank all her valued customers both old and new, family and friends for their continued support over the past “nine” years. Loretta would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful 2021!

Thank you for your support in 2020 and looking forward to your continued support in 2021 – Loretta Dowd Properties SOL

No. 4 Corraun Village, Racecourse Road, Roscommon Town

SOL

2020 has been a year of uncertainties due to Covid-19, but thankfully, having reached the end of the year, I am happy to report that 2020 has been a very steady year for residential property and land sales, with strong demand in all areas. However, as the year progressed, stock levels are running low in all areas, especially residential homes in Roscommon Town and county. Loretta Dowd Properties will be celebrating ten years in business this April and I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone that has supported me over the last ten years, it’s much appreciated! Loretta Dowd Properties offers services in residential sales, land sales, site sales and lettings, etc. If you are thinking of selling in 2021, contact Loretta Dowd (MIPAV) on 087 2233223 for free valuation.

For a full listing of properties for sale with Loretta Dowd Properties visit daft.ie/lorettadowdproperties. I would like to wish a Very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year to all my loyal customers, family and friends and I am looking forward to your continued support in 2021. Stay safe everyone.

SOL

No. 13 Woodview Court, Roscommon Town

Loretta Dowd Properties urgently seeking properties in all areas Loretta Dowd Properties is now urgently seeking residential properties and land in all areas.

Ballinagard Road, Roscommon Town

For a no obligation and confidential appraisal, please contact Loretta Dowd on 087 2233223

Auctioneer Loretta Dowd.

Seasonal greetings

would Loretta Dowd M.I.P.A.V.ppy Ha ry Ve a h like to wis s New Christmas and Prosperou ers, tom cus al loy her all to Year looking family and friends and is ued forward to your contin support in 2021. Stay safe everyone x

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

Earley’s: ‘Extremely busy year of selling in 2020!’ Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are very pleased to report an extremely busy 2020 in what they describe as a “an exceptional year of sales considering the restrictions around Covid-19”. John Earley (FIPAV) commented: “I am delighted to report an extremely busy year of sales by our firm with some excellent prices being achieved for various types of properties. “The market was particularly bouyant for commercial and investment properties and for farmland and residential properties, which enjoyed solid demand. This is set against the backdrop of significant resitriction of movement of people in light of the onset of Covid-19. “During 2020 we invested heavily in virtual tour technology and this alleviated the pressure on viewings which could be done remotely. “Indeed, we enjoyed the sale of a significant number of residential properties from overseas and Irish clients from our virtual tour and drone technology”. Commercial Sales Commercial activity was strong with

The Corraun Business Park, Roscommon, which sold in 2020.

some prime mixed-use investment stock coming to the market. The emergence of institutional investors and pension fund clients also helped to strengthen interest and capital values in the region over the past year. This year we successfully completed a deal with Aldi Ireland for approximately 11 acres of strategically located development lands in Ballyhaunis town centre for a very satisfactory price and this will bring around 30 full-time jobs to the area in the future.

The former Sliabh Bawn Hotel and lands in Ballyleague, which sold in 2020.

Land Sales Demand for good quality agricultural lands remained strong during the year with a clearance of all lots offered for sale by private treaty or online auction. Farms of particular demand were for lots over 100 acres but the market was bouyant for all sizes of holdings. Residential Properties Demand for residential properties has continued to outstrip supply in all areas and has led to pent-up demand in most areas. Events in the

Final offers above €200,000 invited for Ballygar residence

Tully, Ballygar, Co. Galway

John Earley of Property Partners Earley is this week inviting final offers above €200,000 for a most attractive four-bedroomed two-storey detached residence of approximately 1,365 square feet located at Tully, Ballygar, Co. Galway, F42 HY88. John describes the property as “a luxury four-bedroomed detached residence of 1,365 squared feet standing on a large and mature site area of approximately 0.59 of an acre. “The property offers a superb location adjacent to Ballygar town on the main N63 Roscommon/ Galway route. Offering spacious living accommodation and all modern conveniences, this is a quality family home that must be viewed to be fully appreciated. “The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €200,000 to sell. Legal: Sinead Neilan, Liddy Neilan & Co., Roscommon. 0906627498”. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

Approximately 11 acres at Ballyhaunis sold to Aldi Ireland.

past year have led people to evaluate their work/life balance and in many cases they have made the decision to work from home and return to their native areas where strong broadband is available. This has led to significant price increases in urban areas of County Roscommon. With fewer new-builds coming on stream, this upward trend is likely to maintain itself for second-hand sales. John Earley concluded: “We look forward to 2021 with great confi-

dence and anticipate that the market will remain bouyant and will continue to improve as the vaccine for Covid-19 comes onstream. “There is still terrific value to be found in the market as purchase prices are still substantially less than construction costs. “People can now make the purchase decision with confidence. We look forward to the year ahead and welcome both vendors and purchasers alike seeking advice in the property market”.

Kilmore Avenue, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

Quality Lecarrow bungalow is new to the market

Property Partners Earley are this week inviting offers above €210,000 for a most attractive four-bedroomed bungalow residence located at Kilmore Avenue, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. John Earley says: “This is a most attractive and modern four-bedroomed bungalow residence standing on approximately 0.78 of an acre. “The property is located in a most select and scenic setting overlooking the famous River Shannon in an area renowned for its natural beauty. Standing to the rear of

the residence is a substantial garage/boat house and the property is situated on a mature and private site area at the end of a cul-de-sac roadway”. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €210,000 to sell. BER: D2. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

‘Cairn House’ and located at Curry, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Eight-bedroomed dormer at Curry, Strokestown

John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering to the market a substantial eight-bedroomed (all ensuite) dormer-style residence of approximately 3,100 sq. ft. called ‘Cairn House’ and located at Curry,

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a stunning and substantial eightbedroomed (all ensuite) detached dormer-style residence finished to the highest of standard throughout. “This imposing property stands

on a beautifully mature and elevated site area of 2.37 acres with unobstructed views of the rolling green countryside to the front. Spacious living accommodation Offering approximately 3,100 square feet of spacious living

Earley’s lease prime premises to BestDrive John Earley of Property Partners Earley is this week pleased to advise that he has leased a prime garage premises located at Lanesboro Street, Roscommon town to BestDrive by Continental on satisfactory lease terms. Commenting on the letting, John said: “This property has been acquired by BestDrive by Continental (formerly Advance Pitstop) as part of their expansion plans for the company. “BestDrive are part of Continental AG and are one of Ireland’s leading independent

car service and maintenance companies. The new BestDrive site in Roscommon will be refurbished to the highest standards in the coming weeks and we have been advised that about five new jobs will be created in these uncertain times for the local community in Roscommon. We wish them the best of luck in their new premises”. For a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

accommodation throughout, this fine property is ideally positioned to operate as a guesthouse or indeed as a substantial family residence. “The auctioneers highly recommend viewings and all offers are invited for immediate sale”.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon, now leased to BestDrive by Continental.

Prime forestry lands available near Creggs

John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market, prime growing forestry lands containing approximately 52 acres located at Aghagower and Aghagad, Co. Roscommon. All offers above €100,000 invited with a view to a sale. John describes the property as “approximately 30 acres of Sitka spruce planted in 1990 and 1994 and approximately 22 acres of clearfell and bare lands located off the main R362 Creggs-Roscommon route 2 km from Creggs village. The balance of lands are clearfell.

“The lands are comprised in folios: RN11927F, RN23656, RN11928F, RN23656, RN24779 and RN11929F”. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €100,000 to sell. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley (FIPAV), Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie. Find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/propertypartnersearley.

1, Árd Rí, Galway Road, Roscommon town

Sale of the Week at Earley’s! David Diffley of Property Partners Earley is this week pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a primely located three-bedroomed townhouse residence located at 1, Árd Rí, Galway Road, Roscommon town, for a very satisfactory price. Solicitors with carriage of sale were Messers Fahy, Neilan & Co. Ballaghaderreen. David says: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas.

“Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

52 acres located at Aghagower and Aghagad, Co. Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PROPERTY PARTNERS

PSRA Licence No. 001481

EARLEY

FOR SALE A Most Attractive Waterside Residential Holding of Lands Containing Approx. 45.3 Acres LOCATED AT

KILMORE AVENUE, LECARROW, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON With valuable and extensive frontage onto the River Shannon (Can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate)

PRICE GUIDE: €595,000 THE ENTIRE A prime waterside residential holding of lands with extensive frontage onto the famous River Shannon. The said property is located in a most select and scenic setting on which stands a quality 4 B/R modern bungalow residence together with a 2 B/R cottage in need of modernisation set to the side. The said property can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate and is set out as follows: Lot 1: The Entire. Lot 2: Modern 4 B/R bungalow residence standing on approx. 0.8 of an acre. Lot 3: Approx. 44.5 acres of lands on which stands a 2 B/R cottage, out buildings and together with extensive water frontage. Lot 4: 2 B/R cottage of say 0.5 of an acre. Lot 5: Lands only containing approx. 44 acres in one or more lots should market interest dictate.

The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell

NEW TO THE MARKET

FOR SALE

A Primely Located Holding of Roadside Lands Containig Approx. 29 Acres Located at CLOONFREE, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Prime New Build at Castlemanor. A Substantial New Build “A” Rated 5 B/R Two Storey Residence Of Approx. 2,002 Sq.ft Located at 38 CASTLEMANOR, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN. All offers after €250,000 to sell

(on the main N5 Strokestown/Tulsk route). A prime roadside holding of lands containing approx. 29 acres in total located approx. 1.6 km from Strokestown which can be sold in one or more lots as set out below: Lot 1: The Entire. Lot 2: Approx. 7 acres. Lot 3: Approx. 9.2 acres. Lot 4: Approx. 12.8 acres.

A superior quality new build 5 B/R detached two storey residence located in the established Castlemanor development on the Racecourse Road. The house is constructed to the highest quality of finish with a stylish designed home offering spacious well proportioned accommodation for modern family life. High energy efficiency and a bright relaxed atmosphere are a priority for this superior home of unmistakable quality and style. The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers after €250,000 to sell. BER A2 Note the property qualifies for the 1st time purchase grant of 10%.

The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Legal: Roddy McCrann, Messers, TV McCrann & Son, Solicitors, Roscommon. 090 66 26269

LAST FEW REMAINING AT KILRONAN CASTLE 3 & 4 B/R Properties Located At CAROLANS COURT, KILRONAN CASTLE, BALLYFARNON, CO. ROSCOMMON. Prices From: €109,500

HOUSE BARGAIN OF THE WEEK A Character Countryside 2 B/R Detached Two Storey Residence Standing On Approx. 0.51 Of An Acre Located At LARAGH & ROSS, BALLYMOE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45 DT99. All Offers After €25,000 To Sell

Located in a secluded corner of the famous west of Ireland, on the grounds of the luxury Kilronan Castle Estate on the banks of the enchanting Lough Meelagh, these luxury properties will not fail to impress. Set on c. 40 acres of breathtaking scenery and with a world class health spa only a 5 minute stroll away, each spacious property has been carefully designed for modern day living and comfort. Purchasers will have the benefit of 2 years membership of Kilronan Castle’s world class leisure centre.

Showhouse viewing by appointment.

BER D2

BER C2

BER C3

A most attractive stone built countryside residence located in a select residential area close to both Ballintubber and Ballymoe villages. The said residence is in shell condition internally, and would make a most rewarding renovation project. Also standing on the said site area is a stone built storage shed (in derelict condition).

BER EXEMPT

OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER AND WILL REOPEN MONDAY 4TH JANUARY 2021 to a close, Property Partners Earley Roscommon wish to thank all our valued customers “As 2020 draws and friends for their continued support over the past year and we wish them a

very Happy Christmas and a prosperous and peaceful new year. We are available for out of office calls over the Christmas period by contacting John on 086 2551380 or David on 086 8952283 ... John Earley FIPAV

”

Property Partners, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon

Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie / www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Fax: (090) 6625405

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

2020 – A record year for Connaughton Auctioneers! Despite Covid-19 restrictions impacting on property viewings and public auctions for the most part in 2020, Connaughton Auctioneers are reporting a record year of property sales, residential lettings and land lettings. Covering Co. Roscommon, east Galway, east Mayo and parts of Sligo, Westmeath and Longford, the team have had a busy year working from home during lockdowns and adapting well to the new requirements for viewings and meeting clients. Continuing to also offer a service of evening, weekend and Bank Holiday appointments for buyers, sellers, renters and those requiring valuations, Connaughton Auctioneers are again delighted with the response from clients in 2020, many of whom find it difficult to get time off during normal working hours. Connaughton Auctioneers work on a ‘No Sale, No Fee’ basis, with free valuations of properties for

Connaughton Auctioneers are calling for all final offers on this fourbedroomed detached bungalow on a large site of approximately 0.61 acres, by 12 noon on January 8th. Located in a scenic area, on a quiet country cul-de-sac, 7km away from the village of Athleague, this residence represents excellent value in today’s market. The accomodation is in need of some modernisation, but it is spacious with a floor area of approximately 1,345 sq. ft. and has all services connected. The original cottage, which was built in the 1950s, has been modernised and extended and offers originality and charm to the prospective buyer, with an array of outbuildings on site including six stables which are near completion. Accommodation includes an entrance porch, which leads into the large living room with open fireplace including feature wooden mantle and surround, tiled flooring and high ceilings.

anyone thinking of selling or letting in 2021. Speaking to the Roscommon People, Ivan Connaughton said: “Our visual appearance on social media, local newspapers and spread of ‘for sale’ signs throughout the region clearly show we are the fastest growing auctioneers in the region. The residential property market has been extremely busy and for the first time in 14 years demand has

exceeded supply. This will continue into 2021 in the midlands and western region, with demand for residential properties in towns, village and the countryside set to increase further. “This is mainly due to prospective purchasers relocating from large urban centres in the UK and Dublin in fear of future lockdowns from Covid-19 and any other related disease. “Land sales and prices have remained steady throughout the year. We would normally offer many land holdings for sale by public auction, but had to do so by private treaty this year. Demand for land for sale and letting exceeded expectations, particularly from adjoining land owners, the dairy sector and farmers from Co. Leitrim. “We already have requests for lands to let in 2021 and with many farmers opting not to continue in Glás, an increase in supply is expected to meet demand. “As in any business, you have

to offer a service to the public and try to grow and adjust your business to suit the needs of your clients. We found in 2020 that we achieved a very positive result by going the extra mile and offering appointments to people outside of office working hours and at holiday periods when people are available. This service will be even more important in 2021, with a large volume of purchasers expected to relocate from the UK. Our new website connaughtonauctioneers.ie is up and running and easy to navigate. “We would like to wish all our clients a Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2021. 2020 will be remembered by all for many reasons and has been a difficult year for many, including myself with the passing of my mother Josephine in October. I would like to thank you all for your understanding and patience during the past number of months. Our team is looking forward to working with you in 2021,” Ivan concluded.

There are three bedrooms off, two carpeted and one with wooden flooring. The kitchen/dining room is to the rear of the property under the extension and is a large room with tiled flooring, kitchen units and ample light. The utility room is to the right and bedroom

four and main bathroom with bath, sink and toilet is to the left. Services include mains water, septic tank, electricity and oilfired central heating. Seldom does a property like this arrive on the market which offers such fantastic potential and value

for money. Viewings are popular and can be arranged by contacting the office on 090-6663700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie. Evening, weekend and Bank Holiday viewings available by prior arrangement.

Ivan Connaughton

Final offers sought on Rahara bungalow

Prime industrial property in Roscommon town Connaughton Auctioneers have for sale a prime property on the Racecourse Road, Roscommon town, comprising of an extensive range of buildings with an overall gross external area of approximately 16,522 sq. ft. altogether, standing on 2.91 acres of strategically located development lands, currently zoned industrial in the Roscommon Town Local Area Plan (potentially being suitable for residential development in New Roscommon County Development Plan 2021). The lands are located adjacent to the IDA Business Park and command an extensive 155 metres of road frontage, on the Castlerea/ Castlebar N60 road and within

walking distance of the town centre. Formerly, the property was used as a sunblind factory and car sales garage/workshop and is suitable

for many uses. Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton told the Roscommon People: “We are delighted to offer this property for sale. It has huge

potential due to its location for a company requiring prime industrial space/warehousing with high visibility. “The lands also have the potential for residential development after the implementation of the Roscommon County Development Plan in 2021. “Overall, these lands would be an ideal investment opportunity as the increase in commercial presence is set to continue in the county town”. Connaughton Auctioneers invite enquiries and viewing is strictly by appointment. For further details and viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700. Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated.

Turners Court B, Athlone

Offers above €1.9m invited for Athlone apartments Connaughton Auctioneers have a prime property new to the market including an apartment block (Turners Court B) comprising of nine apartments (five three-bedroomed, two two-bedroomed, one four-bedroomed and one onebedroomed) with an overall gross internal area of approximately 706 sq.m/c.7,600 sq. ft. and a high rent roll with all apartments currently occupied. The property is in pristine condition throughout with service maintenance area and ample parking to front. Adjacent to rear is approximately three acres of prime development lands zoned residential in the Athlone Town Plan, offering huge potential for future development. Located approximately 500 metres from Golden Island Shopping Centre, and 800 metres from Athlone Institute of Technology and within walking distance of all amenities, this property is an ideal investment opportunity. Subject to market interest, the property can be divided and sold in lots. Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton states: “We are delighted to offer for sale this fine investment property that has a high rental return for the apartment block and approximately three acres of future lands zoned for residential. The property is located just off the town centre and we invite offers after €1,900,000 for immediate sale”. Enquiries in confidence to Ivan Connaughton Auctioneer on 090-6663700. Viewing strictly by appointment with the auctioneer. Viewings at evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays also accommodated.

Connaughton Auctioneers: We need your property in 2021! Relocating, trading up, trading down, accidental landlord? Whatever your reason for wanting to sell or let in 2021, now is the time to act. Here’s why… Turning property into money takes time. You must: Ensure the title is in your name; Get your property valued by a professional; Understand how to maximise the sale value; List your property for sale with an auctioneer/ estate agent, and then sit back and watch the offers roll in! At this minute, demand is strong and supply is limited. There are cash buyers and mortgage-approved customers ready to go. Enquiries from from Dublin, the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia will be at record high levels in 2021. So, what’s your next move? Contact Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie to arrange your appointment for a free valuation of your property. Connaughton Auctioneers work on a ‘No Sale, No Fee’ basis. We also advertise on daft.ie, myhome.ie, rightmoveoverseas.co.uk, connaughtonauctioneers.ie, Facebook and in local newspapers. Our team is available to show your property outside office hours all year round!

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

BUYING

SELLING

LETTING

IN 2021? Go With The Fastest Growing Auctioneers In The Region!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From Ivan & Team!

Athleague, Co. Roscommon - F42 TW70 090 6663700 info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

ROSCOMMON HERALD MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY

mers a Merry ChristmasWishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. w Year.

selling in 2021, et appraisal.

If you are thinking of selling in 2021, contact us for a market appraisal.

urke@sfpburke.ie

T: 090 662 7200 E: pburke@sfpburke.ie

SED

ROSCOMMON TOWN TOWN ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON RETAIL RETAIL PARK, PARK, CIRCULAR CIRCULAR ROAD ROAD ROSCOMMON

LEASED LEASED

CLUAIN FRAOIGH, LANESBOROUGH ROSCOMMON RETAIL PARK, CIRCULAR ROAD ROAD

ROSCOMMON TOWN TOWN ROSCOMMON

LEASED LEASED

ROSCOMMON TOWN

ROSCOMMON RETAIL PARK, CIRCULAR ROAD

LEASED

ROSCOMMON RETAIL PARK, CIRCULAR ROAD

ROSCOMMON TOWN

LEASED

SED

ROSCOMMON TOWN TOWN ROSCOMMON

LEASED LEASED

ROSCOMMON TOWN TOWN ROSCOMMON

LEASED LEASED

ROSCOMMON TOWN

LEASED

ROSCOMMON TOWN

LEASED

OLD

ROSCOMMON TOWN SALE AGREED CO. ROSCOMMON SOLD

WILLIAMSTOWN, CO. GALWAY SOLD SOLD CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

CO. ROSCOMMON

ASE

ROSCOMMON TOWN TOWN FOR FOR LEASE LEASE ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON TOWN

OAD

SHOP UNIT, THE SQUARE ACADEMY HOUSE, GOFF STREET

SHOP AT UNIT, GOFFBRIDESWELL STREET LAND CURRY,

SHOP UNIT, LANE OFFICE SPACECHAPEL AT ROSCOMMON RETAIL PARK

PSRA No. 001316GOFF

BALLYPHEASON HOUSE, ATHLONE ROAD SHOP UNIT, THE SQUARE

11.788 ACRES, LISNAGEERAGH DEVELOPMENT SITE, BALLINAGARE

SHOP UNITS, HARRISON CENTRE CIRCULAR ROAD

STREET, ROSCOMMON • T: 090 662 7200

ACADEMY HOUSE, GOFF STREET

LAND AT CURRY, BRIDESWELL

SOLD

FOR LEASE

OFFICE SPACE AT ROSCOMMON RETAIL PARK

SHOP UNIT, THE SQUARE

CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON SOLD DEVELOPMENT SITE, BALLINAGARE

ROSCOMMON TOWN CIRCULAR ROAD

FOR LEASE

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON • T: 090 662 7200

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PROPERTY PropertyPeople 58

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020 ROSCOMMON HERALD

CO. ROSCOMMON

CO. LONGFORD

CO. ROSCOMMON

MOYNE BALLAGHADERREEN

MONEEN

AGHAKEEL, LANESBOROUGH

NO 13 TARMON HARBOUR & MARINA BERTH, TARMONBARRY

CO. ROSCOMMON

CO. GALWAY

CO. ROSCOMMON

CORBALLY, DONAMON

CASTLEFIELD, WILLIAMSTOWN

LISGALLAN, CLOVERHILL

NO 9 SHANNNONSIDE, BALLYLEAGUE, LANESBORO

CO. ROSCOMMON

WILLSBOROUGH, BALLINLOUGH, CASTLEREA

CO. ROSCOMMON RATHCONOR, FOUR MILE HOUSE

CO. ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON TOWN

CO. ROSCOMMON

AGHADERRY, LOUGHLYNN

NO 2 GRECIAN DRIVE, THE WALK

NO 3 CHESTNUT GROVE, TULSK

CO. ROSCOMMON

CO. GALWAY

ROSCOMMON

CARROWBAUN, TULSK

ISLAND, WILLIAMSTOWN

NO 40 GREENFIELDS, LANESBOROUGH ROAD

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

‘Roscommon benefits from the silver lining of remote working’ – P Burke, Sherry FitzGerald The housing market proved to be particularly resilient with County Roscommon benefitting from a small silver lining of Covid-19 with many remote workers anxious to relocate to rural counties. That’s according to Padraig Burke of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke, who is looking ahead to a Covid-free future and the arrival of a much-awaited vaccine in 2021 which he believes will lead to increased consumer confidence. “There is no doubt that 2020 was a very difficult and challenging year for people, both on a personal and business level, but it is remarkable that the housing market proved to be resilient in terms of both demand and house

prices and we are looking forward to finishing strongly in the last quarter. “We also have to take positivity from the fact that a Covid vaccine is on the horizon in 2021 and this will lead to increased consumer confidence and a brighter future for us all,” said Mr. Burke. Sherry FitzGerald has clocked up over 17,000 property transactions so far this year with over 8,000 homes sold nationally which is no mean feat in the year of a worldwide pandemic. Figures show that over a quarter of all offers were registered on the popular My Sherry Fitz app with 20,500 buyers now registered on the app. Indeed, ‘My Sherry Fitz’ has proved particularly popular during lockdowns this year

Athlone Road roundabout, Roscommon town.

Great demand for commercial space in Roscommon town!

Padraig Burke of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke has said that despite the challenging year of 2020, the local commercial market remained steady. “There is always a great demand for commercial space in the county town as Roscommon is a very attractive place to live and work. We have witnessed this over the last year with businesses such as Dealz, Wag ‘n’ Tails pet shop and the Ahmed Superstore all taking up outlets in the Roscommon Retail Park. “It is great to see these new businesses coming into the county town providing over 20 new jobs and helping to contribute to the local economy,” he said. Padraig also noted that several new leasing arrangements were also secured over the past year including James Lohan Consulting Engineer relocating to Ballypheasan House, Circular Road, Roscommon. A new lease was also secured on the Harrison Centre Coffee Shop. Mr. Burke also noted that Shannon Green Energies had also taken a lease on the first floor of Academy House in the heart of Roscommon Town.

as it was possible to host virtual viewings for many property transactions. P. Burke is a man with his finger on the property pulse as the veteran auctioneer has witnessed many slumps and hikes in the market over the course of his career but even he could never have foreseen the year of 2020. “The first lockdown slowed everything down and many people found themselves out of work and on PUP payments which in turn held up their mortgage applications but once things began to open up again in June, there was a lift in demand for property and we are hoping to finish quite strongly in the last quarter. “Indeed the Daft. ie House Price Report shows that while house

prices fell by 2% nationwide in the second quarter of the year, in the third quarter, prices rose by an average of 4.8% in just three months which was remarkable,” said Mr. Burke. There are several interesting factors at play for this remarkable resilience in the property market according to Padraig. “People who were lucky enough to remain working found themselves with an increase in household savings which had an impact on property prices. Buyer intent also remained strong, as Covid seemed to reinforce the importance of home ownership and the market held steady. “Remote working also allowed many young couples and families to

Pictured are Nicola Beirne, Padraig Burke, Bernie Burke and David Flynn of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke.

relocate out of urban areas like Dublin as they were able to say goodbye to huge rents and childcare costs and the option of owning a home in rural Ireland was now a reality for them. “County Roscommon also has one of the lowest average property values in the country with the average property value in Castlerea just €96,000 for example. “Co. Roscommon really is such an attractive place

Prime retail units to lease in Academy House P. Burke, Sherry FitzGerald has over 3,000 sq. ft. of available office space to lease in the heart of Roscommon town at Academy House. Located at Goff Street, Roscommon town, Academy House is a landmark building in the heart of the county town. Both the ground floor and the top floor of the building are currently available for rent while the first floor is occupied by Shannon Green Energies, a company which specialises in BER certification. Contact auctioneer Sherry FitzGerald, P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon town, County Roscommon on 090-6627200 or pburke@sfburke.ie for more information.

Retail units for lease in Harrison Centre

P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon town, County Roscommon on 090-6627200 or pburke@sfburke.ie for more information.

PROPERTIES WANTED FOR THE NEW YEAR!

Roscommon town business park.

paid tribute to their hard-working staff Nicola Beirne and David Flynn, whose commitment and effort had helped to ensure that the business managed to hold steady through the difficult year of 2020. “We will finish strongly in the last quarter and I am looking forward to a Covid-free 2021 and the arrival of the vaccine which will bring a better and brighter future for us all,” concluded P. Burke.

Harrison Centre in Roscommon town

Three units to lease at Chapel Lane, Roscommon A prime retail opportunity exists with three units currently available to lease in Chapel Lane, Roscommon town. Located just off Main Street, Chapel Lane is in the heart of Roscommon town with regular footfall and ample off-street car parking available. P. Burke, Sherry FitzGerald currently has three units available to lease from 850 sq. ft. to 1,200 sq. ft., which is a great business opportunity in the heart of the county town. Contact auctioneers Sherry FitzGerald,

to live and work and so many young families were delighted to have the chance to relocate back here. Broadband is improving all the time and high-speed broadband should be a reality here by the middle of next year so the property market in Roscommon benefitted from these silver linings of Covid,” explained P. Burke. Padraig is joined in the business by his wife Bernie and the couple

P. Burke Sherry FitzGerald are currently looking for a number of residential and commercial properties as well as agricultural land for the New Year. Sherry FitzGerald has clocked up over 17,000 property transactions so far this year with over 8,000 homes sold nationally which is no mean feat in the year of a worldwide pandemic. Figures show that over a quarter of all offers were registered on the popular My Sherry Fitz app with 20,500 buyers now registered on the app. P. Burke is now seeking residential and commercial properties as well as agricultural land for the New Year. Contact auctioneers Sherry FitzGerald, P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon town, County Roscommon on 090-6627200 or pburke@sfburke.ie for more information.

A number of retail units are currently available for lease in the Harrison Centre in the heart of Roscommon town, offering a fantastic business opportunity. Units from 1,200 sq. ft. are available for lease. All units are pivotally located within the Harrison Centre, a well established mixed retail development, which already includes a restaurant, clothing and fashion shops, pharmacy, coffee shop and public house. The Harrison Centre is also adjacent to major retailers including Tesco and SuperValu and the centre allows access from Main Street to Tesco, with car park area, and benefits from a high volume of footfall on a daily basis. The excellent location of these retail units in the heart of Roscommon town makes it a fantastic business opportunity that cannot be missed. Contact auctioneer Sherry FitzGerald, P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon Town, County Roscommon on 0906627200 or pburke@sfburke.ie for more information.

Modest decline in agricultural land values

The second quarter of 2020 saw a modest decline in agricultural land values but the midlands and west did not witness the same declines as other parts of the country, according to Padraig Burke of P. Burke, Sherry FitzGerald. “The second quarter saw a 0.6% decline nationally in agricultural land values but the midlands and west did not fare out as badly as areas such as the border region. There was great demand for any land which we had available for sale this year but naturally the Covid pandemic did not help the overall picture. “Now that a vaccine is on the way we are looking forward to a Covid-free future and we would expect land values to increase significantly in 2021,” said P. Burke.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople cathal o’brien

estate agents M.I.P.A.V. PSRA NO. 001127

SOLD

THE HOUSESOLD NAME SOLD

SOLD

FARMS SOLD 1. Behy, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Lisalway, Castlerea

Corrastoona, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon

Prime Ballintubber farm for sale

On the market with Cathal O’Brien Estate Agent is circa 18 acres, of top quality, dual-purpose lands, renowned in the locality and featuring extensive road frontage onto two roads. They are located at Corrastoona, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, F45k832. Standing on the said lands is a fine, four-bedroomed farmhouse residence, well maintained and standing on mature site area. The property also includes a range of farm buildings including a hayshed, crush and pen, etc. Overall, this property is an attractive holding to come on the market, located in a good farming district, in a quiet setting just off the Ballymoe to Roscommon Road, fifteen minutes drive from Roscommon Town and convenient to Ballintubber. The property speaks for itself in both location and quality, and will be offered for sale in the following lots by private treaty: Lots 1: The entire farm including the residence, circa 18 acres. Lot 2: The residence and outbuildings, circa one acre. Lot 3: The lands only, circa 17 acres. All viewings and offers are now invited for immediate sale. Interested parties should contact Cathal O’Brien (MIPAV), Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon on 087 2613617, email info@cathalobrien.ie, or visit cathalobrien.ie/daft.ie.

New to the market: Tulsk property for sale On the market with Cathal O’Brien Estate Agent is this spacious, three-bedroomed bungalow, standing on an elevated site area at Manor in a quiet countryside setting at the end of a cul-de-sac lane just off the Tulsk to Roscommon Road beside all amenities. The property offers a large site area of circa one acre with range of farm sheds, a haybarn and yard, etc. Accommodation includes a reception hallway, sitting room, living room, kitchen/dining room, three bedrooms and a bathroom. For more information, contact Cathal O’Brien (MIPAV), Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon, on 087 2613617, email info@cathalobrien.ie, or visit cathalobrien.ie/Daft.ie.

Just off the Tulsk to Roscommon Road beside all amenities

SOLD

2. Beech View, Ballintubber

SOLD

Cloonbonniffe, Castlerea.

SOLD

3. The Oaks, Frenchpark.

SOLD

Kilbeg, Williamstown.

Lisalway, Castlerea.

2. Sli Na Sruthan, Ballintubber.

SOLD

Cloondaharra, Castlerea on C.15 Acres

SOLD

Moyglass, Strokestown.

24. The Oaks Ballaghaderreen.

SOLD

Clooneygrasson, Ballintubber.

SOLD

Creggameen, Castlerea.

2. Emlagh, Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon. 3. Carrowgarve, Tibohine, Co. Roscommon. 4. Ballindollaghan, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Just a sample of property sales at Cathal O’Brien Estate Agents successfully SOLD in 2020 and numerous other properties Sale Agreed and Under Offer. For full property listing visit our website on www.cathalobrien.ie or Daft.ie To get your property sold in 2021 call us immediately for Free Appraisal and Listing. “Wishing all our Valued Customers Health and Prosperity in 2021”

CLEABOY, BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON Mob: 087-2613617 www.cathalobrien.ie / Daft.ie or e-mail info@cathalobrien.ie

‘Covid highlighted the benefits of living here’ We spoke to well-known local auctioneer Seamus Carthy of REA Carthy… to get an end-ofyear assessment and a view to the future! Tell us a bit about REA Seamus Carthy in Roscommon town… We are auctioneers, valuers, estate agents serving all of Co. Roscommon. It’s hard to believe but it will be our 20th year in business next August. Between recessions and pandemics, our business – like everybody else – has been tested to the limit, but we are delighted to be doing what we do best, which is selling, buying, valuing property for our clients. We love what we do, we are passionate about our job and people react well to how we do our business. How has this year been in terms of the property market in Roscommon? In what was a very tough year for obvious reasons, the performance of the property market in our region was exceptional. A ferocious appetite emerged to secure quality family homes at the upper end of the market. This appetite, combined with the solid demand for good investment properties as well as agricultural land, ensured

the market across all aspects performed really well with a shortage of stock becoming the big concern. What lessons has Covid-19 taught us in terms of property use in rural Ireland? Every cloud has a silver lining and I suppose the pandemic highlighted the substantial benefits of living in Roscommon. Albeit limited in supply, we have quality housing stock and quality agricultural land and people can set up an excellent quality of life for themselves and their families given the amenities we have in our region. The major lesson is that we need quality broadband more than ever in order that the ‘work from home’ environment continues long-term. The recession in a lot of ways created a lost generation to overseas but the pandemic, in my view, could have the opposite impact with a rare but very real opportunity to get our friends and families back home and living and working remotely from Roscommon. How can a town like Roscommon benefit from a move to remote working? The domino effect of getting a new family back to Roscommon is huge. The resulting positive impact it has for our shops, schools, sporting clubs is immense. Roscommon

and indeed most importantly a vacant property that’s not being utilised, it’s an excellent time to sell whilst also offering the benefit to the next generation to set up life here in Roscommon.

Seamus Carthy.

is an excellent place to live and work and I know many people over the years, with no immediate connections, who have based themselves here and who have witnessed first-hand the quality of life on offer. Roscommon will benefit for the future as a result of the quality of life it can offer and the ability to work remotely will only fuel this fire. We will need help to meet this demand. Is this an opportunity to draw young families and graduates back to the area? It’s happening and it’s very real. We took a quick snapshot at a stage earlier this year when we had three really good family homes on the market at Galway Road, Ballinagard Road and Oldwood in Roscommon. We had 43 other interested parties in these properties with the majority of this interest from people wanting to return home, so we have a lot of other people to try and sort out but that’s what we enjoy doing. Anybody who may have a property

What approach should the Government support in order to make rural living more attractive? The quality of broadband is very good in certain areas but like everything, we need to get a high quality level consistently across the county. Traditionally, the high-paid jobs were not available in towns such as Roscommon but they are now – remotely. It’s an opportunity for the Government to balance the books and ease the pressure on our larger towns and cities. Get people back working (from their desk) in rural Ireland. The possibilities are endless and exciting and we would like to see our Government acknowledging these real opportunities. It’s a winwin scenario but we need the vision and drive. What is your property market forecast for 2021? I think there is going to be a question mark and ramifications on what has happened in 2020 for many years to come as a result of the emergence of Covid. I think people will be wary of such an event occurring again

and I think what we have witnessed in the last six months in respect of a ferocious appetite for a move from larger cities to more open and rural settings will continue in 2021. I think the property market will continue to perform well and I would urge those considering selling to contact our office in confidence. As supply is so short, we would also ask any people in particular who have properties that are not been utilised and are vacant to contact our office and let’s make new memories for the next generation. * Contact Seamus Carthy at REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town on 090-6630001

Looking to sell? We have buyers! Our services include: • Sales – Sell your home! • Lettings & Rentals • Property Management – We will manage all aspects of your rental property • Valuations – FREE pre-sale valuation No Sale – No Charge Web: www.kleavyauctioneer.com Tel. 071 96 34737

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

Wishing you a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year

Newtown, Ballymurray, Roscommon

Six acres and excellent road frontage at Ballymurray

Pat and staff at Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd would like to wish all their friends and customers a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.The office will close on Wednesday (23rd) at 12 noon and will reopen on Monday, January 4th at 9.30 am. With 2020 coming to an end, Pat and staff are looking forward to a new and prosperous year. Pat is confirming that they have had a good year despite all the restrictions in 2020. Pat is also confirming that they urgently

need properties for disappointed underbidders following an exceptional few months of trade, due to both an increase in demand and people returning from Dublin and abroad to work from Roscommon, as prices here are much lower in comparison to the east of the country. Abbey Street, Roscommon If you are thinking of buying or selling, contact Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd for their free, confidential advice. Contact the office on 090 6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Office building in Abbey Street attracting strong interest

Hughes & Company have for sale at Newtown, Ballymurray, Roscommon approximately six acres with excellent road frontage and dual entrance. It would be suitable for development subject to planning permission being granted. The lands are located just two miles from Roscommon Town with access to the Carrowmore and Athlone roads. For further details, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneer.com.

Attractive four-bedroomed bungalow in Ballintubber Carrownalasson, Four Mile House, Roscommon

Negotiations for sale of Carrownalasson farm at advanced stage Pat Hughes & Company Ltd are confirming that they are now at an advanced stage of negotiations for sale of a residential farm (approximately 26.5 acres), located at Carrownalasson, Four Mile House, Roscommon, a short distance off the main Boyle to Roscommon Road. All of the lands are of top quality, with an old threeroomed dwelling thereon. The auctioneers are hopeful of concluding the sale in the coming weeks. For further details, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Curraghboy village

117-acre farm at Curraghboy village Pat Hughes is this week offering 117 acres of top quality farmland in Curraghboy village for the representatives of Maura Murray (deceased). Located in a renowned farming area with the benefit of lake frontage onto Lough Funshinagh, this residential farm is for sale by private treaty. For further details, or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Hughes & Company are at an advanced stage of negotiations on the sale of a property at Clooneygrassan, Ballintubber. The residence is an attractive four-bedroomed bungalow situated on approximately one acre. The accommodation consists of a living room, kitchen, four bedrooms (with one ensuite) and a bathroom. The residence is located approximately two miles from Ballymoe village on the main Castlerea to Roscommon Road. For further details, or to make an appoint-

ment to view, contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Investment opportunity on Racecourse Road

Hughes & Company are offering for sale at the Racecourse Road, Roscommon, a terrific investment property consisting of a block of four one-bedroomed apartments. The property is ideally located within walking distance of Roscommon Town centre. Accommodation consists of kitchen, living area, bedroom, and bathroom. The property is generating a rental income of €14,000 per annum and is fully let at present.

This would make an ideal investment opportunity. For further details, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Residence at The Spinney

On the market with Pat Hughes & Company Ltd is this five-bedroomed, detached property, located at No. 56, The Spinney, Abbeytown, Roscommon. Ground floor accommodation consists of a sitting room, dining room, kitchen, downstairs bedroom, utility, and a toilet with WHB. Upstairs has four bedrooms (one ensuite), and a bathroom. There is also a nice private garden to the rear. Viewing is highly recommended. For further information, or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Pat Hughes & Company Ltd are also confirming that there has been a lot of interest in an office building at Abbey Street, ideally located close to all local amenities and within walking distance of Roscommon Town centre. The building is currently laid out into an office but could easily be converted into a residential unit if required. The building, which was used for a number of years as a solicitor’s office, is located in one of Roscommon’s most sought after areas. Accommodation consists of two offices on the ground floor, four offices on the first floor and a small yard to the rear. For further details, or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Abbeyvale, Adnanagh, Roscommon Town.

Five-bedroomed dormer bungalow at Abbeyvale On the market with Pat Hughes & Company Ltd is this large, five-bedroomed dormer bungalow at Abbeyvale, Adnanagh, Roscommon Town. Ground floor accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen/dining room, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Upstairs there are two large ensuite bedrooms, one with a Jacuzzi bath. There is a large garage to the side. The property is located close to all amenities. Offers in the region of €250,000 are being considered. For further details, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Sites for sale at Hughes & Co!

Pat Hughes & Co. have two sites for sale this week including a site with full planning permission for a dormer bungalow, located at The Walk and close to all amenities in Roscommon town. Also, on the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon, Hughes & Co. have a development site of approximately 3.5 acres with planning permission for a 10,000 square foot unit. For further details, or to make an appointment to view, contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople NO. 1 ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296

Auctioneers & Valuers SOLD

Runnabracken, Roscommon

SOLD Circa .4 acre site at Rosses Point, Sligo

SOLD

PSRA no. 001090

SOLD

1 Bedroomed & one 2 Bedroomed Apartment – Garden House Apts

Circa 55 Acre Residential Farm at Kilmacaugh & Ballincurry, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon.

SOLD

EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

SOLD

Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon Town

SOLD Circa 11 acres at Ballincurry, Ballagh

LAND SOLD IN 2020

No. 2 Castlepark, Castle St. Roscommon

SOLD

Abbey Street, Roscommon Town

Circa 8 acres at Cloonca, Mount Talbot

SOLD

SOLD Circa 25 acres at Cloonultry, Ballinasloe

Circa 10 Acres at Beechwood, Roscommon

Sale Agree

• Circa 7.5 Acres at Araghty, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Moneymore, Knockcroghery, Roscommon

Fishermans Cottage, Cloontymullen, Kilteevan

d e e r g A e l a S

d Sale Agree

d e e r g A e l a S

Circa 12 acres at Fearagh, Ballymurray

Curraghroe NS, Curraghroe, Roscommon

Circa 26 acres at Mullymux, Roscommon

• Circa 13.5 Acres at Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon Mullymux, Co. Roscommon

d Sale Agree

Scrine, Athleague, á Co. Roscommon

The Office will close on Wednesday 23rd at 12.00 p.m. and will re-open on Monday 4th January 2020. Pat and his staff would like to wish all their customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople

REA Seamus Carthy and their online auction platform BidNow.ie sold in excess of €2 million in 2020 REA Seamus Carthy are market leaders in selling properties via their online platform BidNow. ie, selling all types of property be it a house, shop, or agricultural land on a daily basis. “This year, we have sold in excess of €2 million worth of property online”, commented Seamus Carthy. “We have sold a broad range of property types, from derelict houses to

substantial family homes and farms. “We are changing the way property is sold in order to improve efficiency, provide transparency and complete confidence in the bidding process and most importantly, assisting in bringing the property sale to a successful conclusion. It’s not just the traditional auction properties we sell online – we also now

sell properties by private treaty as well. “The market is changing and you have to move with the market or else you are left behind. Then you are not offer-

ing your client the best method of disposal of their most valuable asset to ensure they secure the best outcome. We have heavily invested in our new online platform Bidnow.ie and invite people to take a look. We have no doubt they will be hugely impressed. “Even when the market was difficult over the last few weeks, we were selling without breaking any of the very important

restrictions placed on society because Bidnow. ie is available 365 days, 24/7 across all platforms to include desktop, phone and tablet”. If you are considering selling, give your property every chance of securing the best price by contacting REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 66 30001, emailing info@ reacarthy.ie or contacting Seamus directly on 086 8035538.

Athlone Road in the heart of Roscommon Town,

Prime shop unit to let in Roscommon Town REA Seamus Carthy have confirmed that a prime shop premises is now available to lease in Roscommon town. Situated on the Athlone Road in the heart of Roscommon Town, this property is located in the midst of all business activity. Offering an excellent opportunity for a variety of uses, the said unit benefits from its high profile location and excellent fit out and is considered a ready to go opportunity. Contact letting agents REA Seamus Carthy today for lease details on 090 6630001, or info@reacarthy.ie for more information.

Cloonlaughnan within close proximity to Mount Talbot village, Roscommon

Detached bungalow with land New to the market with REA Seamus Carthy is this quality, threebedroomed, detached bungalow with detached outbuildings, sit-

ting on 3.3 acres. Picturesquely set at Cloonlaughnan within close proximity to Mount Talbot village, Roscommon, the property offers

No. 7, The Meadows, Castlerea

REA Seamus Carthy first auction of the year offering excellent value for money On Friday, the 15th of January, No. 7, The Meadows will be for sale by online auction. This property is a most impressive, A-rated, semi detached, 165 square metre home, provided as a shell internally. The subject property is located in a small housing estate of eight houses at Knockroe, Castlerea, convenient to all amenities in Castlerea Town. This is an excellent opportunity to complete a property to a preferred finish as a family home/investment or else present the completed property to the market for re-sale. Immediate enquiries are advised. Online bidding commences on Friday, the 15th of January, 2021. Interested parties should register in advance of the auction on BidNow.ie. Seamus Carthy now urgently requires all types of property for substantial list of underbidders, based both at home and abroad, who are all seeking a range of property types – detached houses, land, cottages, etc. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 66 30001 or email info@ reacarthy.ie.

convenient access to Roscommon Town, Athlone, and Galway. Seamus Carthy strongly recommends viewing for this property.

For more information, contact our office on 090 6630001, email info@reacarthy.ie or contact Seamus directly on 086 8035538.

Impressive home on circa 3.3 acres REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present to the market Cloonliss Lodge, a most impressive and attractive four-bedroomed, detached, dormer bungalow, set on circa 3.3 acres in a most picturesque location in Mount Talbot, Roscommon. The said property is presented in excellent condition and has been finished to a high specification throughout. Externally, the property benefits from an attractive natural stone façade, and a driveway lined on one side by a beautiful stonewall. Internally, the property is presented in pristine condition and comprises of a sitting room, kitchen, dining room, con-

Cloonliss Lodge

servatory, utility, WC, and bedroom with ensuite on the ground floor, and three bedrooms (one ensuite) and a family bathroom on the first floor. This would be a wonderful opportunity to purchase a quality residence set on circa 3.3 acres in a most picturesque location convenient to Roscommon Town, just off the main Roscommon to Galway road. This is a stunning family home, and viewing is highly recommended. For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 6630001, email info@reacarthy.ie or contact Seamus directly on 086 8035538.

Arm, Castlerea

Detached bungalow offering enormous potential REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present to the market this detached bungalow, situated at Arm, Castlerea. The said property is a quality three-bedroomed bungalow, with a range of traditional outbuildings, set on a large 0.4-acre site, overlooking Castlerea Golf Club. The subject property is considered to be in good condition and is conveniently set in the centre of Castlerea Town opposite Castlerea Golf Club, within walking distance to all amenities in Castlerea Town. The said property offers enormous potential given its site size of 0.4 acres. The property has a guide price of €135,000 and Seamus now invites all offers for immediate sale of this select property. Viewing comes highly recommended. To arrange a viewing or for more information, contact our office today on 090 6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie.

Quality semi-detached home in Roscommon

REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to present to the market a spacious, four-bedroomed, semi-detached home, located close proximity to Roscommon Town. The said residence is situated in the much sought-after residential estate of Glenview, conveniently set within walking distance of all amenities in Roscommon Town. The subject property is presented in good condition, with a tarmac driveway to the front and side and a large, private rear garden with a garden shed. No. 37, Glenview is a spacious semi-detached home, comprising of a living room, downstairs WC, kitchen/dining room, and a utility room at ground floor and four bedrooms (one ensuite) and a family bathroom on the first floor. This property is of high quality and set in the heart of the thriving town of Roscommon. The said property will be of interest to both owner-occupiers and investors, and we now invite viewings of this select home. To arrange a viewing or for more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy today on 090 6630001 or email info@reacarthy.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

PropertyPeople SEAMUS DOOLEYCARTHY GROUP NEWCASTLE WEST FOR SALE

NEWCASTLE WEST FOR SALE

FOR SALE

SOLD

NEWCASTLE WEST

The Arches, The Walk, Roscommon Town, F42 R996

Maryville, Roxborough, Co. Roscommon, F42 X640

Cloonliss Lodge, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon, F42 A611

on two lines

Impressive 6 Bedroom family home with Detached Garage situated in an exceptional and sought after location in Roscommon Town. ADDRESS POA description Property

Quality 3 Bedroom Bungalow with fully serviced Detached Outbuilding presented in excellent condition ADDRESSand set on a mature site. €220,000 Property description

Impressive 4 Bedroom Detached Dormer Bungalow on c.3.3 acres. The said property is presented ADDRESS in excellent condition. €350,000 Property description

8 Oldwood, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town

Impressive 4 Bedroom Detached Family Home located in the heart of Roscommon Town

GUIDE PRICE: €

SOLD

NEWCASTLE WEST

SOLD

Ballinagard Road, Roscommon Town

Quality 4 Bedroom Detached Two Storey Family Home located on the outskirts of Roscommon Town ADDRESS Property description onSOLD two lines

GUIDE PRICE: €

SOLD

1 Antogher Court, Roscommon Town

Quality 4/5 Bedroom Two Storey home situated in a sought after residential suburb in Roscommon Town ADDRESS Property description onSOLD two lines

GUIDE PRICE: €

NEWCASTLE WEST

Carrigan More, St. Johns, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Impressive 4 Bed Detached Bungalow with Detached Garage with elevated views.

Barley Harbour, Newtowncashel, Co. Longford

Traditional stone 3 Bedroom detached bungalow situated on the shores of Elfeet Bay on Lough Ree

Wishing everybody a Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year

ADDRESS

Property description on two lines

GUIDE PRICE: €

ROSCOMMON TOWN

Carrownalasson, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon

Stunning newly built 4 bedroom detached Georgian style family home presented in showhouse condition. ADDRESS

Property description on SOLD two lines

Ballinderry Schoolhouse, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon

Quality 4 Bedroom Family Home substantially benefiting from recent refurbishment. ADDRESS

Property description on two lines

GUIDE PRICE: €

NEWCASTLE WEST

25 Tarmon Manor, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Impressive 4 Bedroom Detached 2 storey family home presented in Showhouse condition.

We have sold in excess of 2 million worth of properties through our online auction platform in 2020

Christmas Opening Hours: Wednesday 23rd 9:30am – 1pm; ADDRESS29th 9:30am – 5:30pm; Wednesday ADDRESS Tuesday 30th 9:30am – 5:30pm. Property description on two lines Re-opening

GUIDE PRICE: €

T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie

Property description

on two lines Monday the 4th of January 9:30am – 5:30pm

GUIDE PRICE: €

PSRA Licence No. 002782

readooleygroup.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Classifieds

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

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

PODIATRIST

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Stephen Casey

Sarah Darcy

Construction

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI 5 days a week at

Tullys

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

HSE Trained and Approved l >1000 hours in Merlin Park l Home visits available For appointment call: l

094 9620009

PODIATRIST

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: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • 20 years experience

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.

CONSTRUCTION

For Bookings Contact:

(087) 707 5803

(Saturday & evening appointments available) Treanrevagh, Mountbellew, Co. Galway H53 D7W8 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

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

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIROPRACTOR

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

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

087 2798704

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY SWEEP • Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

Specialising in:

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424 stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

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

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC • BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

COMPUTERS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

COUNSELLING

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

085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

https://www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

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

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

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

Telephone: Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FENCING/GATES

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

087 2346364

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD l l

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

Tel: 087 2172281

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

FOR SALE

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

< FOR SALE: Pedigree non-registered Springer Spaniel pups, black and white, 8 weeks old. Deposit required €250 each. Tel: 086 0564167

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

EDT Lessons Available

094 96 20099

GARDENING

GATELY GARDENING

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

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193

www.parklawntreeservices.

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597

www.corbetttreecareandlandscaping.com

WALTER BEGLEY

Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GRINDS

ROSCOMMON

MATHS GRINDS

Christmas Revision Course

Leaving and Junior Cert Higher Level 28th, 29th & 30th Dec Contact by phone/text:

Lorraine Kenny 086 3688302

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Classifieds PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

086 4679798 PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

Phone Alan on:

090 6661635 or Mobile:

087 2683079 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

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

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for Planning Permission on behalf of Pascal and Colm Finnerty for change of use from Public House with first floor accommodation to Cafe with first floor apartment accommodation and to reconnect to public services together with all associated site works at, Elphin T.d. Main Street Elphin Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. P: 086 2328484

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Rathcroghan Designs intend applying for Planning Permission on behalf of Brendan and Martina O’Grady to construct 2 storey dwelling house connect to new waste water treatment system and percolation area and entrance onto public road through existing agricultural entrance together with all associated site works at Carrowmoney Td., Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Design, Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Co. Roscommon. P: 086 2328484

USEFUL SERVICES

Electrician Available Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

REFLEXOLOGY

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

TERESA BURKE

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

Certified Reflexologist Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment. Through massage of the feet reflexology can • rebuild energy levels in the body • assist in relieving stress • encourage relaxation • improve general wellbeing Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body. Contact TERESA for appointment at

087 9001212

Teresa Burke Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW 20

Christmas Gift Voucher available

TUITION REQUIRED < WANTED: Help to prepare a Thesis concerning Culture + Civil Developement in History, Oriental + Occidental Philosophy Global Justice, Name, Address, M.P.N. D.O.B. ED qualifications. Apply to PO Box No 2045 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

USEFUL SERVICES

Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

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

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

Contact Luke on

085 7359120 Working throughout current restrictions with full PPE equipment.

Agricultural Powerwashing Services • Cow Sheds • Slatted Sheds • Sheep Sheds • Yards • Milking Parlours

PEAT BEDDING

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

TURF AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812 (All areas)

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

086 2437376

< FIREWOOD & TURF: High quality seasoned hardwood timber split and turf, suitable for stoves and open-fire. Available in 500kg bulk bag and 25kg bag. Very competitively priced and delivery can be discussed. Call 086 3312411 after 6pm. < TOP QUALITY TURF: 10x6 Loads of Turf, saved in good weather and stored in dry shed, will deliver. Phone: 083 0684011 < HARDWOOD TIMBER FOR SALE: 8x4 trailer loads, tonne bags or red netted bags. Tel: 083 0204799 < FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Seasoned hardwook, free delivery. Tel: 086 1918021

< TURF FOR SALE: In tonne bags, delivery to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Price €50. Bag and delivery also included in price. Tel: 086 8534011

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag• Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDCARE: Staff required minimum of level 5 qualification We are currently recruiting for fulltime and part-time Early Years Childcare Practitioners. We have a number of positions available: email beezkneezchildcare@ gmail.com < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: 1pm - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, school pick-ups required, so driving licence is a must. Phone: 087 1861127

Contact Padraig today for a keen quote

086 6027509 WE CLEAN THE MESS YOU HAVE NO STRESS! Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining

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

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

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

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 090 66 33026

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

www.roscommonwindows.ie

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

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

- CCTV Camera Inspection

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING PHONE: 086 8229606

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417 LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service

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

Tel: 090

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

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder replacement l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Lock 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

BLINDS

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

VETERINARY

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (inc. public sector) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (inc. competency-based) PERSONAL COACHING: * BECOME MORE ASSERTIVE & BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE! * HELP TO COPE WITH AND EMBRACE CHANGE (e.g. retirement, new job, separation etc) * FIND YOURSELF STUCK IN A RUT? - (take back control and explore options!) EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE/MAKE A BETTER MORE INFORMED DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

For appointment call me on 086 8229606 OR email your enquiry to carolinebburke@gmail.com

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

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

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892 INSURANCE CLAIMS

08383

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

INSTALLATION

6621220

RECYCLING

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Ballybane Industrial Estate, Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial H91 P5k5 BlockEstate, 12, Galway Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

All NCT Failures l Destruction Certs Issued l Sale of Second Hand Parts l Contracted to all Major Car Companies l Farm Machinery, Old Gates l Metals, Iron Baths l Old Cooking Ranges l Weighbridge on Site l

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

Loss Assessor/Claims Management

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

• 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

VETERINARY

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

087 2596055

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

Martin Hibbitt CDIP LA, APA-PL

Certified Dip in Loss Adjusting Approved Product Adviser Member of the PSAG-GI Member of the Insurance Institute of Ireland

M: 087 9818153 E: info@icr.ie

T: 091 380900 W: www.icr.ie

Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

FARMING

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

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Eircode: F42 K243 Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653

Daily collection

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES JOYCE PATRICK (Pat)

Creggameen, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Who died 29th December 2019

LYNCH Thomas (Tommy) Bredagh, Dysart, Roscommon. Died on December 24th 2017 (3rd Anniversary)

GRADY Padraig Carnamadda, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

HANNON James (Sonny) Cloverhill, Roscommon Who died 29th December 2019. (1st Anniversary)

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

CONTACT HAZEL

087 6758874

Pat’s wife Margaret, and family would like to offer our sincere gratitude to all those who sympathised and supported us by calling to our house, sending mass cards, texts, telephone calls, email messages and attending his Wake and Funeral Mass. We greatly appreciate all our very good neighbours and friends who helped and supported us in so many ways. We thank all the people who travelled long distances to be with us. Thank you to Fr. McManus and all the priests who concelebrated his Funeral Mass. We are deeply grateful to St. Caolin’s Church Choir, Trien of which Pat was a member, for making his funeral mass so special. Thank you to Gaynor’s Funeral Directors for their help and guidance and to the gravediggers who prepared Pat’s final resting place. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for all your intentions.

COLLINS Peggy (Nee Hegarty)

Glenvale, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who died 24th October 2020

Who died on the 27th December 2015 In loving memory of Tommy, who died 24th December 2017 God called your name so gently, that only you could hear. No one heard the footsteps of the Angels drawing near. You left me all so suddenly I could only wonder why, for the saddest part of all you never said goodbye.

Always in my thoughts and prayers your partner Teresa.

KEAVENY (Nee Mullaney) Margaret

We, the heartbroken family of the late Peggy Collins, daughters Mary, Kathleen and Margaret, son’s Mal and Liam along with their families would like to thank all those who sent messages of condolences, mass cards, letters, text messages, telephoned, sent flowers, made charitable donations and posted messages of sympathy on RIP.ie We thank you for taking the time to remember Mum and us in your prayers following her recent passing. Our heartfelt thanks and our deepest gratitude to the many family, friends and neighbours who rallied to our needs at the time of Mum’s funeral with food and other works of kindness. A very special word of thanks to Flanagan’s Undertakers Castleplunkett, Niall and Rena who carried out the funeral arrangements in such a caring, dignified and professional manner. Thank you to the grave diggers who prepared Mums final resting place with such dignity and care. Our sincere thanks to Fr. John Gannon for visiting our home to share words of comfort and prayer and the beautiful Ceremony. To the Eucharist Minister Mary and Tommy who managed the Covid 19 restrictions at the church, we thank you. Special thank you to Jimmy Kearney, John Carlos and Caitriona Ni Cheannabhain for their excellent singing and music in the church and at the graveyard. Our sincere thanks to our family, friends and neighbours who stood along the route from our home to pay their respect as Mum made her final journey to the church and graveyard. Thank you to Ann Marie Kelly (Moore Blooms) for the beautiful floral arrangements. To Dr. Amir and staff of Roscommon University Hospital who were so kind on the occasions that we needed them. We thank you. Thank you to the Palliative Care Team for your kind words and encouragement during our difficult time. Dr. Kelly Henry Medical team Castlerea for their help and support, much appreciated. Thank you to June and Barry and all the wonderful staff at Kearney’s Chemist. Helen, Mary, Simone, Mum’s carers thank you for your excellent care and support. Forever grateful to Breda, who provided a beautiful meal for the family on the day. A special word of thanks to Kathleen and Kieran for preparing and putting together such a lovely mass booklet for Mum. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation for your support. The Holy Sacrifices of the mass have been offered for your intentions. We would like to take this opportunity to wish each and everyone of you a safe, peaceful and Happy Christmas. Dia dhaoibh go leir

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

Church St., Glenamaddy Who passed away on 29th December 2015 (5th Anniversary)

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.

Dearly missed by Donnie, Vernon, Macrina, Coman and their families. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Glenamaddy on Sunday, 3rd January 2021 at 10.30am.

Padraig now that you’re not here to share my life each day I feel sadness in my heart that just will not go away. When the sun goes down and the evening starts to fall is when my arms long for you and I miss you most of all. For, when we were together we were as close as we could be and there isn’t anyone on earth who could mean the same to me.

Lovinly and remembered each and every day by your heartbroken wife Eileen. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Daddy, time passes but not one day goes by that you are not here in our hearts. The day you died was not just a date on a calendar. It was the day when our existence changed forever. Daddy if only R.I.P. could mean Return If Possible. Only you could understand what happiness that would bring to us.

Sadly missed every day by your heartbroken children Maireád, Gearóid and Shóna. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Padraig death changes everything time changes nothing. We still miss the sound of your voice you help, your advice and above all your presence. We miss you as much today as we did the day you died.

Always remembered never forgotten by your brothers Willie and Joe and the extended Grady and Whyte families. Padraig’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday, 3rd January 2021 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. C.B.

A daily thought, a silent tear, a constant wish that you were here. An empty place, no-one can fill, we miss you Dad and always will. You were always there, with a helping hand, to listen, advise and understand. Your pleasures were small, your wants were few, if your family was happy, then so were you.

Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Tuesday, 29th December at 10am.

McDONNELL Irene

Graveside Accessories

The perfect compliment to your loved one’s resting place

Granite Vases and Lanterns available in various colours and sizes

For more information contact Sandra: 083 1589243 McDERMOTT John Cloonakilla, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) In loving memory of John who died on 6th January 2018 R.I.P.

Whitepark, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

I’m sending a dove to Heaven, with a parcel on its wings. Be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs, to say how much I miss you, and to send you all my love. I hold you close within my heart, and there you will remain, to walk with me throughout my life, until me meet again.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Malachy, daughter Caroline, sons Sean, Malachy, Cyril, Adrian and Raymond, daughters-in-law Sharon, Lisa, and Teresa and her grandchildren. Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 3rd January at 10am.

RYAN Philip Roscommon Town (32nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Philip, who died on the 26th December 1988 R.I.P. You were so very special and had the nicest ways you did so very much in life and never asked for praise

Sadly missed by his sister Martina, brothers-in-law John and Mullooly family. John’s Anniversary Mass takes place in the Church of Ss. Eithne & Fidelma, Tulsk on Wednesday, 6th January 2021 at 11.30am.

Many memories keep you near As time unfolds another year Out of our lives you may have gone But in our hearts You will always live on.

Loved and remembered always by Margaret and family. Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 26th December at 11am.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES MORRIS (nee Togher) Noreen (1st Anniversary)

Remembering our mother Noreen Morris of Carrowroe, Roscommon, who died on January 5th, 2020, and who is missed every day. Noreen’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town at Vigil Mass on Saturday, 2nd January at 7pm.

FITZMAURICE James

LEONARD Patrick and Elizabeth

Ballinlough Quarter, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary 21st December)

Bracklin, Donamon, Co. Roscommon

( Patrick 37th Anniversary) 11th September 1983

(Elizabeth 12th Anniversary) 24th December 2008

Nothing on Earth Can ever replace The sound of your voice. No verse, no flowers, No tear can say How much we miss You everyday.

So sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Lena and all his children and grandchildren.

Mary Leonard Moody (4th Anniversary) 19th August 2016

Michelle Moody (22nd Anniversary) 14th August 1998

Treasured memories of our dear parents, Paddy and Elizabeth and our sister Mary and niece Michelle who have gone to their eternal home in Heaven. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain. To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

We also remember John Colfer, deceased of the Carroll, Quigley and Leonard families. Loved and remembered always by your family. xxxxx

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

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(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

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BRENNAN Trevor

Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who died on 21st December 2005 (15th Anniversary)

Knockskehan, Lecarrow. In loving memory of our dear son Trevor who died on the 31st December 2018 (Aged 34 years) (2nd Anniversary)

One of the best this world could hold, Never selfish, Always kind. Deep are the memories Precious they stay, No passing of time can take them away, A silent thought, A quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care. Will those who think of him today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and always remembered by your sons Noel and Des, daughter Frances, son-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren and great grandchildren.

FLANAGAN Gerry Leitrim, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon May he Rest in Peace (19th Anniversary)

Cloonart Beg, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon Who died 19th November 2020.

Contact James on 087 3549574 or David on 087 6086723 E-mail: anthonymurrayandsons@gmail.com

Rogers Funeral Directors

KELLY Vincent

In loving memory of Gerry, who died on 25th December 2001

The family of the late Nancy McDermott, Cloonart Beg, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon who died 19th November 2020, wish to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for all the kindness on their recent loss. Sincere thanks to all who offered condolences, sent cards, telephoned and for messages of sympathy on RIP.IE. We would like to offer a sincere word of thanks to the staff at St. Etna’s Care Centre, Tulsk for the wonderful care of Nancy during her final year and also to Sonas Nursing Home (Cloverhill) who took great care of Nancy in her final month. We would also like to thank Fr. John Gannon, Tulsk P.P., who celebrated a beautiful funeral mass and captured Nancy so well in his beautiful Homily. A big thank you to Andrew and Eimear Reynolds for the beautiful music and singing during the mass. Thank you to Pat McHugh Funeral Director, Strokestown for his service and empathy and to the gravediggers for preparing Nancy’s final resting place. We would like to say a personal thanks also to Dr. O’Donnell GP, Strokestown for all his care to Nancy while at home, to the public healthcare team and especially Mary Breen, Nancy’s carer over the years for all your kindness and care shown to her. Sincere thanks to all Nancy’s good neighbours and friends for all their kindness and friendship over all the years. Please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. Nancy’s Month’s Mind and her late brother Peter’s 4th Anniversary Mass takes place on Tuesday, December 29th at 11am in Tulsk Parish Church.

Nineteen years have passed since that sad day You closed your eyes and went away. You left us so suddenly without a fuss and broke the hearts of all of us. You’re not just a memory or part of the past, you’re ours to remember as long as life lasts. You always had a smile to share time to give and time to care. Your memory is our greatest treasure, to have, to hold, to keep forever. You taught us so many things, you were loving kind and true. But you never taught us how to cope, with the pain of losing you.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his family. Masses offered.

The month of December again is here with the darkest and saddest days of the year in which our world fell apart as we remember our dear Son. Not a day goes by without mentioning your name, we hold you close to our hearts which ache for you each day along with the tears we shed. We remember the times we shared, the bygone memories as we go through each milestone which makes our lives so hard to bear since you left us, nothing on earth can replace the sound of your voice or the smile on your face Trevor. No verse or flowers can say how much we miss you every day, losing you the way we did will always seem unfair. Our home is now so quiet and lonely as you no longer go out in the morning or come home in the evening with your news of the day which we chatted over with the evening cup of tea while you would go through the channels on the television to find the Football or Soccer match taking place. We hope that God will bless us and give us the strength to carry on each day without you and help us bear the heavy loss we endure, your kind heart has left us with so many treasured memories.

Loved and sadly missed by Mammy and Daddy. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Trevor if we could have a lifetime wish and one dream that could come true we would pray to God with all our hearts just to see and speak to you. A thousand words won’t bring you back we know because we’ve tried and neither will a million tears we know because we’ve cried. You’ve left behind our broken hearts and precious memories too but we’ve never wanted memories We only wanted you.

We miss you more and more as each day passes. Loved and sadly missed always Sonya, Ciaran, Senan and Caoimhe. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Trevor, Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Sadly missed by Declan, Edel and Fionn. ~~~~~~~~~~~ There’s a bridge of golden memories from here to Heaven above. It brings you very close to us its called the Bridge of Love. No one knows the heartache of which your parting cost. So God in all his glory has gained what we have lost.

Loved and remembered every day. Deeply regreted Trevor. R.I.P. Nanna and Antoinette xx Anniversary Mass at 11.30am on Sunday, 10th January in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow under Covid-19 restrictions. Mass will also be celebrated at 11.30am Sunday, 11th April 21.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES CASLIN Albert (4th Anniversary) - Treasured memories of dear Albert, late of Lisroyan, Strokestown, who passed away on Christmas Day 2016.

CATTIGAN Nina (Anne) (Nee Roche)

THANKSGIVINGS EXTRA

ROGERS Pat & Angela Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon and formerly Allenwood, Co. Kildare

In loving memory of our dear father and mother, Pat and Angela Rogers, who died 3rd January 1999 and 19th December 2008 Silent memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, But in our hearts You still live on. “Quietly today your memory we treasure, You are never more than a thought away”

Loved and missed every day by your loving wife Vera and children David, Sinéad, Dermot, Aoife and Siobhán, son-in-law Martin, daughterin-law Rosemary and adored grandchildren Helena, Samuel and Alannah. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 27th December in Strokestown Parish Church, at 11.30 am.

GATELY Catherine and Paddy Correal, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Catherine who passed away on 23rd December 2017 and Paddy who passed away on 9th January 2018

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives, Until we meet again. So Rest in Peace dear loved ones. And thanks for all you’ve done. We pray that God has given you. The crowns you’ve truly won.

Catherine and Paddy’s Anniversary Mass will be held in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Sunday, 3rd January at 11am.

The family of the late Nina Cattigan wish to express our sincere thanks and appreciation for the kindness and support shown by so many at the time of our sad loss. To all who called, sent Mass Cards, letters and cards of sympathy, flowers, online condolences, telephoned and texted, thank you. Special thanks to Fr. Dusmanta for his visits to Mum and his celebration of the lovely Requiem Mass, to Sean and Aileen Toolin for the preparation of the church and the beautiful flowers and to Eimear Reynolds and Alla Crosby for the wonderful singing and music. We are extremely thankful to family, friends and neighbours who visited Mum over the years and who helped and supported us. Our family feel so fortunate and Mum was so blessed with the wonderful care she received which helped us in caring for her at home where she was happiest. To all the staff at Castle Street Surgery, especially Dr. Cyril and Brendan Crosbie, we are truly indebted to them for their wonderful care of Mum and the family, their guidance and empathy which was above and beyond the call of duty at all time, words can not fully express our gratitude. We would like to thank and acknowledge all the medical, nursing, catering and administrative staff of Roscommon Hospital and the Sacred Heart Rehab and Respite Wards. We are very grateful to Dr. O’Meara and his team for their kindness, empathy and ongoing care of Mum and support of the family over the years. Heartfelt thanks to all of Mum’s carers both HSE Home Support and RHS, to District Nurses Mary and Deirdre, Palliative Care Nurse Ursula, Occupational Therapist John and Physiotherapist Christine and a special thanks to Geraldine and Carmel for their kindness, care and support of Mum and the whole family. To McAuliffe’s Pharmacy, Willie, Michelle and Ursula our deepest gratitude for all their help, support and understanding with Mum’s medication needs. Sincere thanks to Aidan Tully Funeral Director for his kindness and professionalism throughout, his attention to detail and care of the family was outstanding. Thanks you to all, who helped in so many ways from catering to traffic management and special thank you to Gerard and Eugene. Thank you to those who prepared Mum’s final resting place with such care and thoughtfulness, PJ, Len, Gary and Simon and to Sean, Johnny and Peter, Clontuskert Cemetery Committee. A special thanks to PJ and Geraldine for the beautiful floral tribute. In these strange times the presence of so many at the church, lining the roadside and cemetery, the St. Faithleach’s Guard of Honour was so touching and special to us. The lovely tribute by Joe O’Brien was also much appreciated. As it would be impossible to thank everyone please accept this acknowledgement of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. We remember now in love, your life from start to end. And we’re just glad we knew you, as Mother and as a friend.

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Always remembered by Pat, Marie and family, Kevin, Mairead and family, Jackie, Willie and family, Niall and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday, 2nd January at 7pm.

KEAVEY Tom Circular Road, Roscommon (10th Anniversary) Who died on 24th December 2010

Loving memories never die as year’ roll on and day’s pass by. In our hearts a memory is kept of the ones we love and will never forget.

FINAN Frank Lackagh, Ballinahown, Co. Offaly Late of Ballyfinnegan, Ballintubber, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

We smiled with the world as you would have wished. But deep in our hearts you are sadly missed.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Kathleen, brothers and sister.

Sadly missed by Gerard and Chris. Mass offered.

GALLAGHER Alan Ballinagard Road, Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

KELLY Annie (Nancy) Cloontuskert, Ballyleague. 90th Birthday remembrance on 24th December

A ray of sunshine came and went, A beautiful treasure only lent, In God’s keep quietly sleeps this wonderful son and brother we loved so much but could not keep

Remembered by his devoted mother Maura, his father Peter, sister Olive and brothers Brian and Kevin, nephews and nieces. Mass offered

On this special birthday although you are not here you are still loved and missed every day. Happy 90th Birthday in Heaven.

Always in our thoughts and prayers, Oliver, Noreen, Keelan, Jerome and Ciara.

THANKSGIVING This novena must be said for 9 consecutive hours. For one day. Publication must be promised. Jesus who has said ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be open to you. Through the intercession of Mary the most Holy Mother. I knock, I seek, I ask that my prayer be granted (make request). O Jesus who has said all you ask of the father in my name he will grant you through the intercession of Mary the most Holy Mother, I humbly and urgently ask thy father in my name that my prayer be granted (make request). O Jesus who has said heaven and earth will pass but my word shall not pass through the intercession of Mary the most holy Mother. I feel confidant my prayer will be granted (Make request) say one our Father. Every time I say this novena my prayers have always been answered. It has never let me down. T.B. THREE DAYS MIRACLE PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRTI Holy Spirit, you you who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideals. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be seperated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You must say the prayer for 3 days consecutively without saying your wish. You will receive your wish after the 3rd day. Though how difficult it is. A promise to publish the prayer after your avour is granted. S.C. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE My St. Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with our Lord Jesus Christ, succour me in this hour of affliction and despair my St. Expedite, you who are a Holy warrior, you who are the Saint of the afflicted, you who is the Saint of the desperate, you who is the Saint of urgent causes, protect me, help me, give me strength, courage and serenity. Hear my plea. (Make request). Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you. My Saint Expedite, help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency, bring me back to that state of peace and tranquillity, my Saint Expedite, I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering when your desire is granted. Amen. Say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and make the sign of the cross. Be sure to provide the offering you promised, if Saint Expedite grants your petition. Thank you so much for everything, for hearing and answering my prayer and to St. Michael. Amen. M.C. 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. M.C. MANY THANKS! Saint Martin de Porres, I come to you for help and blessing as I prepare to be tested for fitness to drive. Help me to know thoroughly the rules of the road so that no one will ever suffer from my negligence or incompetence. May I be ready for the test prescribed by law. May my efforts and preparations be supported by your prayers so that I may deserve to be granted a licence and may I never abuse the trust that is placed in me. May all of us so behave that deaths and injuries on our roads will no longer sadden our daily lives. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. L.S.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

Sports PEOPLE Hand-some win for young Rossies Electric Ireland Connacht Minor Football Semi-Final Roscommon 2-13 Galway 0-11 < SEAMUS DUKE

Conor Hand played a starring role as Roscommon GAA followers received an early Christmas present last Friday night when a superbly well coached and highly motivated minor (U-17) team upset the hot pre-match favourites Galway to march into the Connacht final (which will be played early in the New Year). Having easily accounted for Leitrim in the opening round, Galway were expected to be too strong for Roscommon on the night. However, in cold but dry conditions at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Emmett Durney’s side set about dismantling the Tribesmen’s challenge with a super game plan that worked a treat. Roscommon withdrew Aaron Shannon to play in a roving role out the field and he got on a lot of ball throughout the game. Inside forwards Eoin Colleran and Darren Gately prospered in the extra space they were given, the tactic paying off on the scoreboard. All over the field Roscommon players fought like tigers. Every ball was

contested with ferocious intensity and time and time again the underdogs turned over possession from a shellshocked Galway side that just couldn’t cope with Roscommon’s work rate and energy. The sides exchanged points inside the opening four minutes with Maidhc Mac Gearailt on target for Galway and Conor Hand for Roscommon. In the 6th minute there was a sign of what was to come when Alan McManus effected a brilliant turnover in the middle of the field. A quick pass to Eoin Colleran followed. In turn he set Darren Gately free and the St. Ciaran’s man finished brilliantly for a superb goal. Roscommon were now on their way and they simply did not allow Galway to gather any momentum. Colleran converted two frees and Darren Gately pointed from play to leave the score 1-5 to 0-2 at the first water break. Galway were struggling and needed a route back into the game. In the 31st minute, in a rare attack, they were awarded a penalty, but David Prendergast’s shot flew wide. Roscommon continued to dominate. Colleran put over three more points (two marks) and another two scores from the very impressive Conor Hand put Roscommon in a very strong position at halftime, leading by 1-9 to 0-4. Any fears that Roscommon might wilt after the interval – after putting in such

Teams & scorers Roscommon: David Farrell; Michael Sugrue, Caelim Keogh, Luke Walsh; Colm Neary, Alan McManus, Eoin Ward; Oisin Cregg, Jamesie Greene; Shane Walsh, Ryan Conlon (0-1), Conor Hand (1-4); Aaron Shannon, Eoin Colleran (0-6; 3 frees, 2 marks), Darren Gately (1-1). Subs: Bobby Nugent (0-1) for Greene (44), Daniel Meeley for Walsh (49), Dylan Coleman for Cregg (59), Darragh O’Beirne for Shannon (65). Galway: James Egan; Jack Ramsey, Eanna O’Donoghue, Morgan Morrin; Matthew Mulvaney, Darragh O’Malley (0-1), Adam Tierney; Darragh Burke, Conal Gallagher (0-1); Ryan Kavanagh, Maidhc Mac Gearailt (0-3), Liam O Conghaile; Daniel O’Flaherty, Cillian O Curraoin (0-2, frees), David Prendergast (0-1, pen). Subs: Rory Donnellan (0-2, 1 free) for Burke (16), Aaron Kavanagh for Ramsay (26), Gary Higgins for R Kavanagh (35), Jack Dowd for O Conghaile (43), Jake Slattery (0-1) for Prendergast (48). Referee: Mike McGirl (Leitrim).

Durney thrilled with display < SEAMUS DUKE

Rising high! The Roscommon minors enjoyed a very impressive win over Galway in the Electric Ireland Connacht Minor Football Championship semi-final last Friday night at Bekan. Pic: Connacht GAA

a massive effort in the first half –were quickly dismissed on the restart when Colleran (free) and Hand pointed inside the first nine minutes against the slight breeze. The young Rossies were now 10 points up. Galway replied with a point from Conall Gallagher, but in the 43rd minute came the goal that finished the game as a contest. Roscommon were awarded a free 35 metres out. Darren Gately took it quickly, passing to Oisin Cregg. He transferred to Conor Hand who raced through and blasted the ball to the Galway net. Game, set and match to Roscommon. That score was typical of what was an outstanding display by Roscommon. Ryan Conlon’s point in the 51st minute saw Roscommon 13 points ahead. By now, Roscommon virtually had both feet in the final. Towards the end of the game Galway kicked five points in a row over a seven-minute period but this spurt was of consolation value only. This was a super performance from Roscommon. The challenge now will be to repeat it in the provincial decider against Sligo. If they can, it will take a very good team to beat them. The defence was marshalled well by Caelim Keogh and Alan McManus, while Oisin Cregg had a great game at midfield. Up front, Eoin Colleran and Darren Gately were superb, Colleran winning almost every ball that came in his direction. Aaron Shannon was a candidate for ‘Man of the Match’ too. He covered almost every blade of grass on the

field and probably handled the ball more often than any other player. But Roscommon’s best performer on the day was Conor Hand who scored 1-4 from play and was involved in almost every important move that Roscommon made on the night. Ultimately, this was a night of achievement for the entire squad and management, all of whom played their part in what was a truly memorable win and performance. Roll on the Connacht final!

Stat attack Wides: Roscommon 6 (3, first

half); Galway 6 (3, first half)

Red cards: Roscommon 1 (Alan

McManus 51 mins; second yellow) Black cards: 0 Yellow cards:

Roscommon 5 (Michael Sugrue, Alan McManus (2), Oisin Cregg, Darren Gately Galway: 7 (Eanna O’Donoghue, Mathew Mulvaney, Darragh Burke, Ryan Kavanagh, Daniel O’Flaherty, Cillian O Curraoin, Rory Donnellan Man of the Match: Conor Hand

(Roscommon)

Roscommon manager Emmett Durney was understandably thrilled after watching his charges put on such a convincing and dominant display. “It was a great performance. We had asked them for honesty, to give everything they had and it (what they produced) was all we had hoped for. “It was always going to be tough coming down here to play Galway. There is never a bad minor team in Galway. They looked very good against Leitrim and we knew that we had a big job to do here tonight. “But I just said to the players there after the match that I knew after watching them play at U-16 level that they were good guys. I said to Karl Foley (coach) last year that there are good footballers in this group”. The manager agreed that there were some outstanding performances on the night. “When you think of it, Colm Neary, Ryan Conlon, Shane Walsh and Bobby Nugent are all U-16 and Jamesie Greene was playing his first game at inter-county level…to give such a polished performance tonight was brilliant”. He acknowledged that getting an early goal was crucial on the night. “A good start was always going to be crucial and we had it in our plan to try and nick an early goal. Our two inside forwards Eoin Colleran and Darren Gately are as good as any in the province and (we knew) if we got early ball into them we would do well. In fact we were unlucky not to have got a second goal”. The tactic of playing Aaron Shannon out the field paid off, and while its success delighted the Roscommon manager, he wasn’t particularly surprised. “Aaron Shannon is a great footballer. But all these players are intelligent guys who know how to figure things out for themselves”. Durney said that a number of incidents during the year had brought the players closer together as a squad. “I solemnly believe if we asked those lads to walk to Claremorris tonight they would do it. It was a tough year for them. Only last week we lost one of our best players and leaders, Mark Watson, with an injury. Then we had the situation when we were to play Dublin in Johnstown earlier in the year and we lost Morgan Keena so that bit of history has built of a great bond among these guys”. He cautioned that it was only a Connacht semi-final and another massive hurdle has to be jumped in order to secure silverware. “I have just pointed out to them that this is only a semi-final and we will have a huge task again when the final comes around. These lads deserve to win a Connacht title but you don’t always get what you deserve. “From a Roscommon point of view it is always a brilliant to beat Galway or Mayo and to give that kind of a display is huge for confidence and for the team in general. For them to know that they are capable of doing that is a big boost”.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

SportsPeople

THE BIG SPORTS’ VOX POP county championship played was great.

ENDA SMITH Roscommon senior football captain What’s your earliest sporting memory? Playing with all the neighbours in the green area beside where I grew up (in Boyle). We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? Few and far between, I’m afraid! I suppose being able to get back playing was a highlight in itself. It was looking pretty bleak around March/April time, so to get both a club and

BILLY DONNELLAN Oran GAA manager

brilliant. It’s hard to pick an international highlight this year but Katie Taylor has been flying the flag brilliantly for Ireland.

What’s your earliest sporting memory? Probably the first event I can recall watching in full is the 1979 FA Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester Utd. It was known as the five-minute final because Arsenal were winning 2-0 with five minutes to go…then United scored twice, only for Arsenal to win it with an injury-time goal. I spent the evening in the back garden pretending I was Alan Sunderland scoring the winner…complete with celebrations!

In Gaelic football, Covid-19 forced the return of knockout football and a new focus on the club scene. A temporary arrangement…or should GAA learn from this? I think the GAA needs to learn from it and make it permanent. Anyone I’ve spoken to thought having the club fixtures played with no county distractions was great. Personally, I would love if inter-county was done and dusted by July and let club action kick in then. Ultimately it would benefit the players as they get a proper off season and rest. I haven’t been a fan of the backdoor in inter-county championship for years. The second chance only benefits the stronger counties. The return to knockout was a breath of fresh air. It gave the so-called smaller counties a chance of their day in the sun, as we saw with Tipp and Cavan. It can make for better games too as teams have to go for it instead of playing to just keep the losing margin down.

We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? Locally, the choice is obvious! That’s Oran winning the Intermediate Championship for the first time in 23 years. On a national level, Tipperary and Cavan winning their provincial championships was

NATALIE McHUGH Kilglass Gaels and Roscommon footballer What’s your earliest sporting memory? The 2001 Connacht Final in Dr. Hyde Park, when the Rossies beat Mayo. To top it all off, I got a picture taken after the game with captain Fergal O’Donnell! We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? Katie Taylor beating Miriam Gutierrez to remain the undisputed World Lightweight Boxing Champion.

HUGH LYNN Outgoing Roscommon GAA PRO What’s your earliest sporting memory? I have an image in my head of people in white playing cricket. When I checked for clarification from my mother a number of years ago, she suggested it may have been a cricket match in St. Johnston in Co. Donegal. My late father was a Garda Sergeant in Carrigans, Co. Donegal when I was very young and cricket was played in that area. My first Connacht final memory is from 1980 in the Hyde. Loughglynn school winning a schools final in 1979 is another, and as my father was a proud Mayo man I also have memories of Mayo playing in Crossmolina and being brought there when I was, as they say in Donegal, a ‘cub’. Thankfully the primrose and blue won out! We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? My performance on the bicycle during the first lockdown. In Gaelic football, Covid-19 forced the return of knockout football and a new focus on the club

In Gaelic football, Covid-19 forced the return of knockout football and a new focus on the club scene. A temporary arrangement…or should GAA learn from this? We definitely should learn from this. It worked, and it was more enjoyable for everybody, as you were able to give 100 percent to both teams (club and county), rather than changing over in mid-season. Who is your sports personality of 2020? Cathal McHugh! Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports

What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? A hurl, so I can puck around with Niall Kilroy. What’s your sporting wish for 2021? Hopefully we can get fans back at games. I’d also like to see a clearer structure on what’s happening for county and club teams. I’d also take a Connacht title and a club title!

Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? I’m hoping to read Champagne Football, and probably Barry Geraghty’s book, True Colours. I don’t listen to many podcasts, but dip into Off The Ball now and again. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? A return to some sort of normality, so that we can start going to sporting events again. What’s your sporting wish for 2021? Roscommon to win the All-Ireland and Oran to win the Roscommon Senior Football Championship – neither of them too much of an ask!

Who is your sports personality of 2020?

Who is your sports personality of 2020? Obviously Katie Taylor would have to be there, so too Sam Bennett, the cyclist from Carrick-on-Suir. John Horan, President of the GAA is another person worthy of mention. He provided fantastic leadership

podcast you want to catch up on? Jamie Carragher has a great podcast where he interviews ex-footballers about their careers, being a professional, how they cope with being retired, etc. It’s called The Greatest Game and it’s a very good listen.

Who is your sports personality of 2020? I think Katie Taylor has been the stand-out Irish sportsperson this year. She’d get my vote.

In Gaelic football, Covid-19 forced the return of knockout football and a new focus on the club scene. A temporary arrangement…or should GAA learn from this? It’s definitely something the GAA should learn from – the split season was very enjoyable. It was lovely to have a block of time to play with and (to) focus solely on one team. I really enjoyed having club before county this year – in previous years we have been knocked out of the All-Ireland series with Roscommon and then faced into a turnaround of one week to prepare mentally for the club championship. The shorter season was also a very attractive change as it encouraged many players to postpone retirement or come out of retirement for this year.

scene. A temporary arrangement…or should GAA learn from this? Every day is a school day, and we should try and learn from all experiences. I’m not convinced that we had a wonderful inter-county football championship this year…yes, we had some exciting games and some games where the underdogs prevailed… and at the end of the day I do think that probably the two best teams qualified for the All-Ireland final. I was extremely impressed with the club football championship, possibly helped by the fact that clubs knew when their games were to be played. It was also a club season with no interference from county, making for a more focused club championship. I think we need to spend a few years with a split season, a period for club and a period for county. If after three years we see it is working, we should stick with it, otherwise scrap it then. We need to ensure that club and county can co-exist, and that clubs do not lose their better players due to county commitments. After all, the success of the GAA is very much rooted in the community.

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Katie Taylor. Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? ‘When the World Stops Watching: Life After the Game’ by Damian Lawlor. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? A pair of Nike or Brooks runners, or possibly Airpods. What’s your sporting wish for 2021? To play with my sister in Croke Park and win an All-Ireland title with the Roscommon Intermediate Ladies.

this year and I believe the GAA performed well during the whole Covid crisis. My overall choice would have to be Katie Taylor, the undisputed World Lightweight Champion and also the WBO Super-Lightweight Champion. Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? After all the talk and the great reviews, I’m looking forward to reading Champagne Football by Mark Tighe & Paul Rowan. On the local scene I hope to read Paul Healy’s Sporting Heroes at Christmas too. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? Good health and the ability to attend matches in 2021. As Eric Clapton told us ‘You never miss the water till your well runs dry’ – and I think we learnt that this year when we couldn’t go to the games! What’s your sporting wish for 2021? To be able to sit in the Hogan Stand and watch Roscommon in 2021 (after having already watched them in the Hyde and in a few other locations, with big crowds at our games). That, and to see Éire Óg win the Intermediate title in 2021.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

SportsPeople

THE BIG SPORTS’ VOX POP

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ADRIAN CARBERRY Roscommon FAI Development Officer; Manager, Athlone Town What’s your earliest sporting memory? Northern Ireland v Spain in the 1982 World Cup on TV – but in the flesh it was witnessing Galway bringing the Liam MacCarthy Cup across the Shannon in Athlone in 1980. Unbelievable scenes. We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? Watching the rise and rise of Katie Taylor, and Athlone Town getting to the FAI Cup semi-final. In soccer, Covid-19 forced a change in the season. How have you found it this year and what changes would you like to see for the future? I have found this year very tough – like many did – when sport was taken away from us. It had to be done to protect people’s health, I understand that, and we all need to play our part. The protocols around personal hygiene and washing hands have been a big change and are now the new norm. We just need to embrace the changes.

Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? I’m looking forward to reading a book called Edge by Ben Lyttleton. It looks at what business can learn from the football world. I like this kind of book. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? I’m sure a vaccine for Covid-19 is on everyone’s list, so that (apart from the wider health and society benefits) we can all get back to training and playing together, regardless of the level you play it. What’s your sporting wish for 2021? To assist Athlone Town with the next step in their development journey by putting together a squad of players that will compete at the business end of the table this year – along with an All-Ireland for Roscommon of course!

What’s your earliest sporting memory? My earliest memory of sport is of going to Creggs’ matches with my father (John). He was coach of Creggs in 1990 when the club caused a major upset by beating a star-studded Galwegians team (which included Eric Elwood and future Lions’ coach Warren Gatland) in the Connacht Senior Cup. I remember the atmosphere and tension of league and cup finals against rivals Connemara. The success the club had in that time was amazing. We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? I really enjoyed Argentina’s first ever win against New Zealand, in this year’s TriNations. The Argentines were given almost no chance of registering a victory after being kept off the pitch, mostly in quarantined environments, for almost the entire season due to the global health crisis. The passion and commitment they showed that day really stuck with me. In rugby, Covid-19 forced a change in the season. How have you found it this year and what changes would you like to see for the future? Covid-19 has really affected our rugby season,

LISA O’ROURKE International boxer and Roscommon footballer

The ongoing uncertainty of whether or not the sports could go ahead due to the Covid virus has been very frustrating. I look forward to when things are back to normal.

What’s your earliest sporting memory? My earliest sporting memory would have to be watching my Dad playing rugby for Creggs.

Who is your sports personality of 2020? Katie Taylor.

We know it’s been a strange year…but what was the sporting highlight of 2020 for you (local, national or international)? Being selected for the Irish youth boxing team 2020 and also joining the Roscommon Ladies football panel and making my debut against Offaly. In boxing and ladies football, Covid-19 forced many changes. How have you found it this year and what changes would you like to see for the future?

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Who is your sports personality of 2020? There are a few, but I feel Katie Taylor is a shining light for Irish sport on the world stage and doesn’t get the full recognition she deserves. I would give it to Katie.

PAT CUNNINGHAM Creggs RFC manager; former Creggs & Connacht player

Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? The Little book of Kobe by Orange Hippo. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? New boxing gloves! What’s your sporting wish for 2021? That the Covid-19 virus will disappear and all sports will return to normality. Sporting activities are very important mentally for young people like me.

Six of the (very) best

which runs from September to April. We lost the end of last season and have only had three games this season. We have such a talented, hungry and young squad in Creggs, so we are all looking forward to a return to action. Who is your sports personality of 2020? Dustin Johnson’s performance in the Masters was incredible, but I’m going for Caelan Doris who was the stand-out Irish player in recent international games. The rise of the Ballina man highlights the great work being done in underage rugby by all the small clubs throughout Connacht. Is there a sports’ book you’re looking forward to reading this Christmas…or a sports podcast you want to catch up on? I’m looking forward to reading The Dynasty, which is about the rise of the New England Patriots and the influence of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. What sporting present would you like Santa to deliver to you? Spurs to win the Premier League (or any trophy at all) this season. What’s your sporting wish for 2021? My wish is simple; that we can get back to competitive sport in 2021. Competitive sport and in particular the team environment plays a huge role in our society and we have missed the dressing room and the special camaraderie it brings.

As a stand-alone game of Gaelic football, Saturday evening’s All-Ireland final was very enjoyable to watch. But given the dominant position that Dublin have established in the game, it has to be said there was an inevitability about the outcome all along, even when Mayo were playing their best football and had drawn level no less than five times during the match. With the possible exception of Kerry, Mayo are probably the only team that are able to give this Dublin outfit any sort of a game. Nevertheless when it comes down to those vital 15 minutes the chickens always come home to roost. Last Saturday the Dubs brought on Brian Howard (he has two All Stars) who was magnificent. They also brought on Paul Mannion (he has three All Stars) and Cormac Costello. They would be on the first fifteen of any other county team in the country. They helped to close out the win with relative ease. The quality they have throughout their squad is breathtaking. In contrast, in that final quarter Mayo were beginning to panic. Some of their shot selection and decision making was very poor. It was another good display from the Connacht champions but for the fifth time in the past decade (against Mayo) Dublin have done what Dublin do best. They just swept past them to another title. There is a very serious side to the current situation in Gaelic football. It’s a game that we all love and we have been raised on its traditions, and the memories of great games over many decades. But the code’s premier competition is in danger of becoming totally irrelevant and the people who run the GAA have a crisis on their hands. The total dominance of Dublin is a very thorny issue, one that has to be tackled. It’s not just down to finance, although it is factor. It is not the fault of Dublin that they are so far ahead of the rest. They are just taking advantage of their situation – and good luck to them too. However, the GAA will have to find a way to support the other 31 counties or else people will not be interested in their flagship championship any more. Even more worrying will be that players in other counties will not be prepared to commit to putting in the massive effort it takes to play county football if they have absolutely no chance of ever winning an All-Ireland medal. The association have no option but to tackle the current imbalance as a matter of urgency. Meanwhile, I have to admit that it is a pleasure to watch how this Dublin team play football. Their patience and discipline when they have the ball, and their tenacity and work-rate when they don’t, is a lesson for all teams. Despite the advantages we consider Dublin to enjoy, Stephen Cluxton, Brian Fenton, Ciaran Kilkenny, James McCarthy and Con O’Callaghan are ‘once in a lifetime’ footballers, some of the greatest players ever to play the game. For Mayo, it’s another heartbreaking defeat. They actually played well on the day and Cillian O’Connor, Oisin Mullen, Diarmuid O’Connor and David Clarke could not have done any more. In any other era this Mayo team would have won two or three All-Irelands. It will be interesting to see if they will be back at this stage again. Now that the GAA have decided that the intercounty scene will come first in 2021, who will bet against Dublin making it seven in a row in just a few months time? Note: The Dublin dominance does not extend to the U-20 grade where Galway defeated them in a thrilling final by a point. The Tribesmen, who hammered Roscommon in the Connacht final back in March, survived a late rally from the Dubs to emerge the 1-11 to 0-13 winners. Key to the victory were the performances of their centre half-forward Matthew Tierney and their full-forward Tomo Culhane who scored 1-10 out of their total of 1-11 between them. The Galway team were managed by Donal O Flaharta.

My All Star team

My All Star team for 2020: Stephen Cluxton; Oisin Mullen, Padraig Faulkner, Mick Fitzsimons; Paddy Durcan, James McCarthy, Robbie McDaid; Brian Fenton, Thomas Galligan; Diarmuid O’Connor, Con O’Callaghan, Ciaran Kilkenny; Dean Rock, Conor Sweeney, Cilian O’Connor.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2020

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