Roscommon People Newspaper by RossiePeople

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www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633

advertising@roscommonpeople.ie news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie 27 March 2020

The Local Paper iles and athrooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

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‘We need Total Lockdown’

Launch of Roscommon Responds: Centre pages < PAUL HEALY

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan is leading calls for a total lockdown of the country as part of the ongoing response to the Covid-19 crisis. Writing in today’s Roscommon People, Mr. Flanagan says: “I believe that we must move to instigate a total lockdown now, similar to France”.

In a stark declaration, ‘Ming’ said that if action is not taken now, “we will needlessly kill thousands of our citizens”. He writes: “Why wait? Why be behind the curve? We can see what works. Lockdown is currently the only ‘medicine’ against this virus. It worked in China. It is just beginning to work in Italy. Most countries in Europe are going towards lockdown”. He appealed to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Health Minister Simon Harris to go beyond the further series of restrictions announced on Tuesday. (See full article inside).

Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498

F: (090) 6665590 E: info@liddyneilan.ie For all your Home Heating & Fuel Needs, call Jason McEvoy: Tel: 087 1888114 Joe McEvoy: Tel. 087 1888115 Matt Devane: Tel. 087 1882288 Aidan Casey: Tel. 087 4006004 David O’Connor: Tel. 087 9824500

Finn Electrical

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090 66 25573 or see our facebook page

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

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

Michael Fitzmaurice

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

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on If you have enquiries t a story advertising, or wan 54227, email covered, call 086-80 people.ie or paul@roscommon monpeople.ie advertising@roscom

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

Mob.: 086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

ATH LON E Ι M OATE

Business As Usual in Roscommon town For your safety and the safety of others, please adhere to all Covoid-19 Guidelines

* 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

www.bccsolicitors.ie

CASEY’S

The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270

ROSCOMMON

Kerosene 44.9c per litre Marked Gas Oil 52.9c per litre

Business As Usual We are here to look after our customers

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

PERSONAL INJURY

LANESBOR OU GH Ι GA LWAY

FRANCES’

Please contact Frances on 087 6500931

Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

Meanwhile, hundreds more businesses in County Roscommon have temporarily closed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Thousands of workers have been laid off. Roscommon’s towns and villages are eerily quiet. It is evident that people in Roscommon are engaging very responsibly in social distancing. While there is absolutely no room for complacency, it is encouraging that it is still the case that there are less than five confirmed cases in County Roscommon.

Finishing Touches

Business As Usual

Tommie KElly Electrical

Contact our dedicated Personal Injury Department in

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

Tavanagh Meats BRIDESWELL VILLAGE. 090 64 88191 Craft Butchers, Grocer and Newsagents

BUSINESS AS USUAL Contact Claire 087 2923316 / 090 6488191

Deliveries Available

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

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HORAN’S RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

From our home to yours!

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Should you need to avail of our service, please ring the numbers below to order. Thank you and stay safe Check out our Facebook page for updates

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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

OVERHANGING TREES AND HEDGES

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My neighbour’s trees and hedges are overhanging into my garden and they refuse to cut them. I would like to prune the branches myself as they are obstructing my view. Can I legally do this without securing my neighbours permission? May I dispose of the cuttings or should I give them back to my neighbour? Unfortunately, trees and hedges often cause much friction between neighbours. Ideally, the best way to resolve any issue you may have with overhanging trees would be to speak directly with your neighbour. A friendly discussion may result in an amicable arrangement to everyone’s satisfaction. Legally, a landowner may cut off any tree branches which over-hang into his property without giving prior notice to the owner of the tree. However, you may not cut down the tree entirely nor may you enter onto your neighbour’s property for the purpose of cutting branches without your neighbour’s permission. Whilst pruning overhanging branches it is important to take care not to render the tree dangerous. Further, you may only cut on the side of and up to your boundary line. It is illegal to ring bark or otherwise damage the tree to such an extent so as to cause the tree to die or decay. All tree cuttings should be offered back to your neighbour. If your neighbour does not want the cuttings, they must be disposed of in a responsible manner. You may not leave the cuttings on your neighbour’s property without their permission.

e l p o e WATCHING P With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

Hello, is that yourself? Well, yes! You did ring my number! Oh yeah…so, how are things? Ah, sure not too bad…and yourself? Not too bad…we’re all in it together. Yes! And we’ll rise again!

Endangered Species

(A pause on the phone) We used to meet in the pub, last week we met outside the Hyde, now we’re reduced to the mobile phone! It’s okay…as Albert said about the PDs, it’s only a temporary little arrangement. You’re showing your age! No, I read a lot of political history! Anyways, hopefully this will pass and by summer maybe we’ll be on the cusp of normality. Very poetic…‘On the cusp of normality’. Is that Heaney? No, it’s exclusive to me! Anyway, we’re CYCLING ACCIDENT like two young lovebirds on the phone… Lovebirds?! You’re definitely showing your age! Do you read Barbara Cartland If you were involved in a cycling too?accident contact I’ll Byrne ignore that. It’s just strange…you and Carolan me chatting onSolicitors the phone, when we’re so Cunningham used to the couple of pints in the local. I miss that. I know. And I see the Roscommon People still has that graphic of the two of us at the bar…wouldn’t you think they’d have replaced it by now? Ah no, I think it’s poignant. Poignant and evocative… Heaney? No, me again… So you think that’s a nice image in our… I suppose you’d call it a column… Ah yeah, it’s grand, even if it looks like we’re both talking at the one time. Which is often the case… Both: Yeah, true!

The barstool boyos

Maybe they’ll replace it next week with the two of us on our mobiles… Sure we might Skype next week…or even go for a walk… Observing social distancing. Of course. (Silence on the line) You’d miss the ould sport… Terribly. Did you watch the Maradona documentary on Channel 4? I did, HE was the boyo! He could beat a team on his own! Better than Pele? I think so…and better than Messi and Ronaldo!

The best? No, not better than Best! Georgie was my hero! Ah, there was only one Georgie Best… Like I say, showing your age! Anyways, had you a good weekend, as good as any of us can have during this Covid-19 crisis? Ah yes, grand. We’re all staying at home as much as possible…doing the ould social distancing thing. Same here…and by the way, from our distinguished position here on the top of page 2…a big shout out to all the mammies in Roscommon and Ireland for Mother’s Day. They are the heart and soul of the nation, we all love our mammies! I’ll second that! And are your family all well? Yes, thank God, and yours? We’re doing good, we’re following all the advice. Tough weeks ahead, my friend… Yes, but let’s stay calm and strong and follow the guidelines, most of all, let’s look out for one another. Let’s, in particular, look out for elderly relatives and friends, for the vulnerable people in our community. Well said! Now, I’ll chat to you very soon, I’m going to go… Okay my friend, take care. You too. Chat soon. Yes, chat soon. Goodbye. Goodbye. Bye. Bye. See ya. See ya. Eh…you hang up… No, you hang up!

What we liked… I know I mentioned this here last week (to be fair, Covid-19 is dominating everything just now) but the generosity of the Irish people is really heartwarming, indeed inspirational, in this time of crisis. All week there have been further examples of agencies, businesses, clubs, volunteers, etc. being proactive in ensuring that supplies and assistance – and that ‘friendly call’ in person or by phone – are being made available to the elderly/vulnerable.

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

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

PIC OF THE WEEK: This young boy (Jack) and Oscar the dog managed to get some exercise (as we all should do) and observe social distancing, as did photographer Michael McCormack.

What we would like PEOPLE to be talking about We look forward to the days when people are talking about…meeting family and friends, hugging and handshaking, incomes restored,

stress levels reduced, great sporting events… and good health and good times. Take care.

What we didn’t like…

Instances of large groups of people ignoring social distancing guidelines last weekend were very frustrating and irresponsible. Please observe the HSE guidelines!

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Coronavirus COVID-19 Help prevent coronavirus

Wash your hands

Cover mouth if coughing or sneezing

Avoid touching your face

Keep surfaces clean

Stop shaking hands and hugging

Keep a safe distance

The virus spreads in sneeze and cough droplets, so regularly taking the above measures helps reduce the chance of it spreading.

Visit HSE.ie

For updated factual information and advice Or call 1850 24 1850

Protection from coronavirus. Itâ€™s in our hands.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

A diary of the times that are (part 2) Thursday/Friday Every day starts with Covid-19, and every day ends with Covid-19. The virus has taken over our lives, hopefully only for a period of weeks or months. Its shadow is everywhere…in our homes and workplaces, on TV, radio, social media and in the newspapers, at every turn we take. In Roscommon Town, the shutters are coming down. When you work in a newspaper office – and it may seem odd for a journalist to say this – you can end up being cut off a bit from the outside world. We’ve become prisoners to emails and our phones. Stuck in our screens. For years we’ve been saying that we need to get out and about more…now we can’t! I digress. By Friday, I badly needed a walk, a clearing of the mind, a break from the office. It was a beautiful day, far from in harmony with our troubled times. That afternoon walk through Roscommon Town was an eye-opener. On door after door, window after window, the grim new order was mapped out. Notice after notice spelt it out. ‘Due to Covid-19, etc., etc., etc. we are temporarily closed. If you need to contact us, call…’ A town moving towards lockdown, not waiting for The Directive. Devastation for business, an earthquake for the economy. Driving through town at night has been eerie. I don’t want to overstate it, and this WON’T last. There are lots of people out walking – social distancing being observed – and many shops are of course open. But it is quite eerie, particularly from 8.30 pm or so onwards. The pubs are silent. There is no noise. No lights, no colour, no atmosphere. People walking. Walking and waiting. At times, it felt nice…calm. But it is not normal.

Saturday/Sunday Most people in County Roscommon are remaining indoors except for necessary journeys. The trip to the shop, usually a sociable and routine exercise, has a slighty strange feel to it. (Local shops have re-

the recklessness that some people are still engaging in. Here, the Government introduced stringent new measures on Tuesday evening. We have full coverage throughout this week’s issue.

Wednesday

Maintaining a safe distance in Duffy’s Supervalu, Ballaghaderreen.

ally played a blinder, erecting glass around check-out points and taking other creative measures to ensure that social distancing is observed and that staff and customers are protected). In the shop, we pick up our few pieces, keep our distance, engage in (very little) small talk, smile and leave. Irishness kind of turned on its head. We drive back through Eerie Town, cursing this Covid, desperate for it to pass. Back at home…the temptation always to dip into social media. Over the weekend, people tweeted their fury over widespread ignoring of social distancing guidelines at outdoor amenities. A clamour for lockdown gained momentum. Sunday was Mother’s Day. To paraphrase Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (who was speaking about St. Patrick’s Day)…a Mother’s Day like no other. People were strongly advised to avoid visiting mothers (in particular, to avoid children and grandchildren visiting elderly mothers/grandmothers). Sad, but necessary. The ladies in question understand, and are bravely buying in to this (temporary) new reality. Creative methods were used to ensure that mothers were told how much they are loved and cherished. On a country road, I saw a pink bag (clearly a Mother’s Day present) left on a gate pillar at the entrance to a long avenue to a house.

WhatsApp videos, intended to lift the mood, are being circulated non-stop. They might not appeal to everybody, but for many people, humour offers some respite in this crisis. As for TV, radio and social media, it is now essential that people cut back/manage their intake of the non-stop and utterly gloomy media coverage. Of course most or all of this media coverage is superb, but we all need to ration our exposure to it. There are films and comedies and other shows that can be watched. Even The Kardashians has a certain appeal now (escapism). And go on, admit it…you’ve all seen Gogglebox, Sister Wives, Come Dine with Me, and Escape to the Chateau, haven’t you?

Monday/Tuesday By Monday evening, it was clear that further restrictions were imminent. In the UK, where up to recently they’ve been ‘playing catch up’ during this crisis, decisive action was taken: complete lockdown. Extraordinary times. Of course it remains to be seen how realistic it will be to implement such dramatic measures. Reports on Tuesday that police in the UK had to break up a barbeque at which about 70 people/idiots were present, underlines the challenges facing the authorities and

On the street today, I met a man who wanted to talk. Many people are lonely. I feel particularly sorry for the elderly, for people who are on their own. This man was cheerful enough, once someone engaged with him. He had a few conspiracy theories about what we’re going through, about why all of this is happening. I listened (observing social distancing) and moved on after a few minutes. He seemed pleased to have got it off his chest! People are nervous, but resilient…in good humour, friendly. But there’s an undisguised anxiety in the air. Everywhere, there is evidence of great volunteerism, of generosity, of good people doing good deeds. And we must give a special mention to our heroic frontline workers. Let’s keep doing The Right Thing. Take care. Watch a little less ‘news’ – and enjoy The Kardashians.

“

In the shop, we pick up our few pieces, keep our distance, engage in (very little) small talk, smile and leave. Irishness kind of turned on its head. We drive back through Eerie Town, cursing this Covid, desperate for it to pass

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

STAY SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

Kerrane calls for a ‘Buy Irish Food’ Campaign Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has called on consumers to make an extra effort to prioritise the purchase of Irish food products over the next few weeks in order for us to support workers and protect Irish businesses. Ms. Kerrane has called for the launch of a ‘Buy Irish Food’ campaign in which consumers, retailers and producers all have an important role to play. Deputy Kerrane said: “It is important that every effort is made over the next few weeks to support Irish businesses and workers by prioritising the purchase of Irish food products. “Sinn Féin is therefore calling for a ‘Buy Irish Food’ campaign in an effort to provide vital support to our food producers and our workers in the sector. “During this health pandemic we need to retain as much wealth within our own domestic economy if we are to protect businesses and jobs against any potential decline in export trade down the line. “We are therefore asking consumers to double their efforts to prioritise the purchase of Irish food products during their weekly shop.

Leitrim punter wins €63,000 It turned out to be a lucky Friday for a punter from Co. Leitrim after they turned some loose change into a jaw-dropping amount on Friday evening’s DailyMillions draw. The anonymous customer placed six €0.70 accumulators amount-

ing to a total of €4.20 via their BoyleSports account on different combinations of five numbers to be pulled from the Daily Millions machine. Their luck was in as the 15,000/1 odds were trounced in a matter of seconds when 7, 8,

16, 20, 22 and 33 all rolled out meaning all six wagers landed. The Leitrim punter was able to log back into their account to see their balance increased by a handsome amount of €63,004.20 to start the weekend off in style.

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

Pre-Draft Public Consultation Phase Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 11(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) that Roscommon County Council intends to commence its review of the existing Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 and to prepare a new County Development Plan for the period 2021 – 2027. The preparation of a new development plan shall be strategic in nature for the purposes of developing objectives and policies to deliver an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the development plan and the core strategy. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

“Behind every Irish product is a worker and a farmer whose family needs our support. “We are asking people to please read the label when they go out to shop and to prioritise Irish produce if they can. One easy way to identify a product is of Irish origin is if it has the Bord Bia Quality Mark on the label”.

A Strategic Environmental Assessment will be carried out as part of the review process and the Planning Authority will prepare an environmental report of the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the new plan, in accordance with the SEA Directive (2001/42/EC) and pursuant to the Strategic Environment Assessment Regulations 2004 as amended. Appropriate Assessment (AA) Pursuant to Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC and Section 177 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended, an Appropriate Assessment of the of the likely impacts on the Natura 2000 Network of implementing the new plan will be undertaken. Issues Paper In order to stimulate debate and encourage participation in this process an Issues Paper has been prepared and is available for inspection at the following locations, during normal opening hours, from 27th March 2020 to 5th June 2020 (both dates inclusive): •

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

•

Roscommon County Council Municipal District Offices in Boyle and Athlone

•

Roscommon County Council Area Offices in Castlerea, Ballaghaderreen and Strokestown

It may also be viewed on the dedicated Roscommon County Development Plan website: www.rosdevplan.ie Given the current Covid 19 restrictions, it will not be possible to schedule public consultation events at this time. In the event of the lifting of restrictions prior to the end of the statutory consultation period, efforts will be made to arrange events. Such events will be publicised in the local press. How to get involved Roscommon County Council hereby invites any interested parties to make submissions or observations regarding objectives and policies to deliver an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the development plan, in writing / electronically, to the Planning Authority between the 27th March 2020 and 5th June 2020 (both dates inclusive). Children or groups or associations representing the interests of children are entitled to make submissions or observations regarding objectives and policies to deliver an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the development plan. The Planning Authority intends to review the zoning of the area of the development plan for the purposes of developing objectives and policies to deliver an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the development plan and the core strategy. Requests or proposals for the zoning of particular land for any purpose shall not be considered at this stage. (Any such submissions will be returned) Submissions or observations may be made either in writing or via the website. Submissions or observations in electronic format can be made on the website at www.rosdevplan.ie Or in writing to: Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98. The deadline for receipt of all submissions is 4.30pm on the 5th June 2020. Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or via the website. Data Protection In accordance with Section 11(3A) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, written observations or submissions received by Roscommon County Council shall be published on the Council’s website within 10 working days of their receipt. All submissions should include your name and a contact address, and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent. To assist Roscommon County Council in complying with data protection legislation, you are asked to provide this information on a separate sheet. This processing of your personal data is lawful under Article 6 (1)(e) of the GDPR regulations. The Council’s Data Protection Policy, is available at http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Freedom_of_Information/Data%20Protection/Data-Protection-PoliciesProcedures-Corporate-Data-Protection-Policy.pdf The policy is also available in hard copy upon request.

Pictured at the Tremane Hurling Club Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel were Frank Naughton and Ellie Kavanagh. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Signed: Martin Lydon Director of Housing, Digital Transformation, Planning, Head of Finance and Roscommon Municipal District Area Manager

Date: 27th March 2020

NAUGHTEN

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

DENIS

INDEPENDENT

#ShopLocal Many excellent local businesses are adapting to enable them to continue to trade while ensuring they comply with current guidelines on social distancing. Where possible please consider shopping local and supporting your local fruit & veg shop, butcher, baker, local shop etc or buying online or over the phone from other local shops/businesses. Many small businesses will struggle in the weeks & months ahead and shopping local may make all the difference. We need our local shops & they need us.

#LocalJobs #LocalHealthServices O VOTE N 1 #Welfare Supports

If you need Social Welfare forms please see my website www.DenisNaughten.ie where the form can be downloaded. If you would like a copy of the form posted to you please email your address to dnaughten@oir.ie or contact my office on 090 6627557

NAUGHTEN DENIS

INDEPENDENT

www.DenisNaughten.ie Call: (090) 6627557 Email: dnaughten@oir.ie

#LocalJobs #LocalHealthServices

PUBLISHING THE PEOPLE… RosPeople FP 260x330.indd 1

16/01/2020 20:23

Roscommon People…your locally-owned community newspaper Due to the Covid-19 advertising, or want a roscommonpeople.ie or health crisis, and in the story covered, call 086advertising@roscommoninterests of the safety of 8054227, email paul@ people.ie our staff and customers, the Roscommon People office in Abbey Street is closed temporarily. Call: (090) 6627557 Email: dnaughten@oir .iePeople The Roscommon Merry Christmas will continue to publish Please follow HSE Guidelines and wishing youI am a our print and online ediand stay safe and well. tions. available at new all timesyear for any peaceful To our readers and RosPeople FP 260x330.indd 1 advertisers, we say thank issues you may have you for your wonderful support. It is a challenging times for all SMEs, including the local media. We look forward to your continued support in the weeks and months ahead, and we appeal to our readers to continue to supportATHLONE LOCAL all local businesses. ELECTORAL AREA Of paramount imRoscommon County Council Athlone Local portance at this time is people’s health. Please Electoral Area follow all HSE guidelines Roscommon and engage in social County Council distancing. Stay safe and take care.

www.DenisNaughten.ie

STAY SAFE EVERYONE

Cllr DONAL

DONAL KILDUFF

KILDUFF

We’re back live!

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

INDEPENDENT

Contacting THE PEOPLE If you have enquiries on

Best Wishes for 2020 INDEPENDENT

E: Donal@kilduff.ie | T: 086 8579459 @DonalKilduff Donal Kilduff Web: www.kilduff.ie/donal

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

ICOS ‘disappointment’ at closure of marts

ICOS has described the Government’s closure of all marts as “disappointing”, given that the marts that had remained open had put significant effort and finances into staying open in a safe way while still enabling farmers to trade their animals. In a statement, ICOS (the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society Ltd.) said: “Co-op marts are owned by farmers and exist for farmers. We urge any farmer wishing to buy or sell livestock to contact their local mart manager as we can

still arrange for the marketing of animals, albeit as the Government has decreed, we cannot market them through the physical auction sales ring. “Marts have significant contact databases of buyers and sellers and we have a long and proud history of honouring payments to farmers. We will continue to offer these services to farmers. ICOS mart managers will be considering how we can best serve our customers during this difficult time”.

Kerrane’s appeal for help for renters Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/ Galway Claire Kerrane has called on the Government to do more to meet the needs of renters who have lost their jobs and who are struggling with high rental costs. She said that emergency rent supplement, rent reductions and rent waivers must now be firmly on the government’s agenda as Minister Eoghan Murphy introduces emergency legislation this week. Deputy Kerrane said: “In the coming days and weeks, tenants in the private rented sector who have lost their jobs will have to pay their rent. “While Minister Eoghan Murphy’s pledge to halt evictions and

freeze rents for three months is a welcome first step, renters also need help with their rental payments. “An emergency rent supplement payment must now be firmly on the agenda. My colleague and party spokesperson for Housing Eoin O’Broin TD has written to Minister Regina Doherty three times as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is being felt by workers across the State. “Ministers Doherty and Murphy must meet with opposition spokespeople as a matter or urgency so we can all work together to support renters during this pandemic”.

ICOS is now calling on the Government to reconsider the ANC retention periods, as a matter of urgency, as if marts are now closed to a minimum of 19th of April then complying with the current 7-month retention period will be a problem. This, ICOS says, would allow farmers a longer timeframe to purchase the animals needed to comply with the stocking density requirements of the scheme, greatly assisting their economic viability.

John Igoe

Please call in advance to place your order

Business As Usual – Please follow HSE Guidelines

QUALITY BUTCHER

Abbey Street, Roscommon · Tel.: 086 3120819

BEFORE SOCIAL DISTANCING: Tremane Hurling Club Night at the Abbey Hotel… Pictured at the Tremane Hurling Club Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel were Aoife Keenan and Peter Kellehan. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Declan Gordon, MVB, MRCVS.

Glenamaddy Veterinary Services Creggs Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

• M: 087 2543722 • Normal opening hours/24-hr service • No children allowed • Only one customer at a time

T: 0949659428

• Calf ear notch collections weekly as usual – please have ready in sealed bags with payment inside Please adhere to all HSE Guidelines www.glenamaddyveterinaryservices.com

A message from

Councillor Valerie Byrne Key contacts in Elphin and surrounding areas (names and numbers that may be of assistance during the Covid-19 crisis) Useful numbers: Dr. Geraldine Colleran: 071 9635084 NowDoc: 1850 400 911 (Out of Hours and Weekends) Elphin Pharmacy: 071 9635137 An Garda Siochana: 071 9635002 St Vincent de Paul (SVP): 086 4539898 for Elphin, Mantua, Creeve, Aughrim, Dangan and Half Parish areas Dinners can be ordered in advance in the following: Day Care Centre: 071 9635566 (Meals on Wheels) Tiernan’s Restaurant: 071 9635060 For groceries Glancy’s Food Store: 071 963502 (Deliveries available) Morris Meats: 071 9635370 (Deliveries available); Also, orders can be made by Text or WhatsApp to 087 8477259 For fuel Niall McLoughlin: 086 3313002 (which will be delivered to your home)

Please do not be left without at any time during this period. Just make that call; all of the above services are available to help you. Elphin GAA Club have said they will help with deliveries. Let’s help and support each other and with the help of God we will get through these bad times, as we have always done in the past

Do not hesitate to call me – I am available on 086 888 7897

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Athleague and Roscommon. Tel.: 087

633 9548 or 087 851 2921 Payment through our website, www.connaughtonfuels.ie Please register yourself as a customer and avail of faster transaction times? We wish to thank staff for going over and above to help out our customers. They will do any necessary chores for vulnerable customers while there, if possible, and this add on to our service is free. Stay safe everyone and keep washing those hands.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople Please contact me at any time. Stay safe everyone

Cllr. Marty

McDERMOTT Tel. 087 3466064 Email: marty.mcdermott1@gmail.com /marty.mcdermott.184 l

#Shop Local #Shop Local #Shop Local #Shop Local l

Cllr. Liam Callaghan

Councillor for the Boyle area

Please follow HSE Guidelines and stay safe and well. I am available at all times for any issues you may have

086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@roscommoncoco.ie

PUBLIC NOTICE FROM CLLR JOHN KEOGH: Over the last couple of month we have encountered a global crisis like very few have ever seen before. COVID-19 has the potential to cause much pain and anguish for every household if we do not all work in unison to ensure that we limit the spread of the disease, saves as many lives as possible and hopefully see the virus reach a conclusion much sooner rather than later. In this time of uncertainty, we need to pull together by physically distancing ourselves from each other. Others have quoted the famous words of John F Kennedy “ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country” but the reality is that never before were such words of such importance than they are right now. Your family, your friends, your community, your county, your country need you. They need you to strictly follow the advice and direction of the Government of Ireland, the HSE and the Chief Medical Officer with regard to the measures that they recommend you take. Whilst, I have suspended all face to face meetings with constituents except in cases of emergency,

I remain contactable on my mobile 087 6440534 and on Facebook and Whatsapp.

Behave as if you have the virus. Stay Home and Stay Safe! If you must leave your home for work then please ensure you practice social distancing. –––––––––––––––––––– oOo ––––––––––––––––––––

MESSAGE FROM HAYDEN & CO SOLICITORS, ATHLONE: During these challenging times caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic, our Law Firm will continue to operate but behind closed doors. We will continue to meet with clients but by appointment only and only where the matter urgently requires such a meeting, otherwise all communication will be by phone and email only. In the last few weeks we have seen an increase in the number of people wishing to plan for succession by making their Wills, no doubt caused by the panic surrounding the COVID-19 crisis. If you urgently require legal assistance such as with regard to making a Will, please contact the office on 0906470622 or contact Dara Hayden on 0861981248 or John Keogh on 0876440534 and we will endeavour meet at a suitable time and location whilst ensuring that the social distancing requirements advised by Government, the HSE and The Chief Medical Officer are adhered to for your safety and the safety of our staff. We thank all our clients for their continued support over the years and we look forward to providing legal advice to you in the years to come. Please follow the advice of the medical experts and Stay Home and Stay Safe.

McDermott warning on Covid cons! Cllr. Marty McDermott is advising the public that he has been made aware of the real prospect of con artists trying to take advantage of people during the Covid-19 emergency. Cllr. McDermott said that it has been brought to his attention that, for example, people could be targeted by con artists when they are seeking Covid unemployment benefits. “I want to warn people to be wary of this very real prospect. As we know,

telephone scams are a familiar part of everyday life already. There is a risk now that con artists will try to take advantage of the current situation. “If, for example, someone rings you up in relation to the Covid Unemployment Benefit Scheme, do not not give out personal information over the phone. I have been advised that a good technique here would be to ask the caller what your PPS No. is, or where you are employed. If they are

genuinely working with the Department of Social Welfare, they will have that information”. Cllr. McDermott said that

there is a real risk that “opportunistic criminals” will try to profit from this crisis and he urged the public to be wary of any such scams. Cllr. McDermott (Fianna Fáil) said that the Covid-19 pandemic is extremely challenging for people, but he was advising the public to remain calm, to stick to their usual routines and to follow all the HSE advice. Cllr. McDermott also called on the Government to provide a special al-

lowance/financial support or incentive for frontline workers in relation to their childcare costs. “These people have to continue working, they also have to have their children looked after, so we need to be supportive of them at this time”. He has also appealed to the people of Roscommon to continue to look out for the welfare of neighbours at this time, particularly the lonely, isolated, vulnerable and elderly.

I’m calling for Irish government to instigate a total lockdown NOW < LUKE ‘MING’ FLANAGAN MEP

Let’s be clear, Ireland is very vulnerable in the face of the coronavirus, Covid-19. We are very low on ventilators and there is clear evidence that shows that a country with a low number of ventilators per head of population has a higher death rate than countries with high numbers of ventilators per head of population. This is why Germany has far fewer deaths than Italy. Ireland has half the number of ventilators that Italy has per head of population. In last week’s Irish Times, Dr. Muiris Houston outlined the following fact. (You can accept this or you can bury your head in the sand. It’s up to you): She wrote: “Ireland’s intensive care unit/high dependency unit bed capacity is one of the lowest in Europe. We have 50 beds per million people; Italy has 125 beds per million. If northern Italy has run out of intensive care facilities and we get the same surge in very ill coronavirus patients as it has, then some very difficult challenges lie ahead”. We have failed to take the peak off the infection curve – the latest figures from the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tony Holohan, is proof of that. Our infection rate is soaring. We have not

done inward travel restrictions, we have been slow to close schools, pubs, etc. This is all in the past – we must look to what is coming down the line. I believe that we must move to instigate a TOTAL lockdown now, similar to France. If we do not do this, we will needlessly kill thousands of our citizens. Why wait? Why be behind the curve? We can see what works. Lockdown is currently the only ‘medicine’ against this virus. It worked in China. It is just beginning to work in Italy. Most countries in Europe are going towards lockdown. Poland, Denmark, Spain and many others have closed their borders. Let’s do it NOW. Dr. Mike Ryan of the World Health Organisation has said the most important single factor in fighting coronavirus is speed. Minister Harris, Taoiseach Varadkar, please move NOW. What are you waiting for? Every day is a loss.

TOTAL LOCKDOWN NOW.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

Covid-19 – Roscommon LEADER Partnership responding to the needs of communities right across County Roscommon In response to the ever-evolving ‘Covid-19’ situation, the management and staff of Roscommon LEADER Partnership (RLP) are taking a proactive approach to reassure communities right across Co. Roscommon that they are here to help. Roscommon LEADER Partnership are working on a range of community support measures and have announced that they are redeploying a number of their staff to work on these initiatives in a bid to support the county’s citizens and communities. Over the coming days they will be contacting all on the ground community leaders to lend their support and work in conjunction with the various voluntary initiatives already in place. All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and social distancing practices. If anyone needs anything or knows of anyone requiring assistance, please contact the numbers below. RLP have a team of very willing volunteers ready to help and assist while adhering to HSE guidelines and social distancing practices. RLP wishes to acknowledge and support the fantastic work being done on the ground by all frontline staff, Gardaí, healthcare professionals, the GAA, community groups and all other organisations in the county. Roscommon LEADER Partnership wishes to advise the public that they will be extending current service provision to the wider community including the friendly call initiative and their ‘Meals on wheels’ delivery service. The staff are also willing to provide assistance to anyone that has become unemployed recently, through ‘admin’ support, printing and completing forms. We also hope to support the massive volunteer response in Roscommon by giving the much-needed back-up support required with printing, delivery and phoning on behalf of our most vulnerable in the county. Friendly Call Friendly Call is a free phone call service for people living alone and is available to older people and anyone feeling lonely, isolated or vulnerable. Individuals can self-refer or can be referred by healthcare professionals, community groups or family members/ friends. The service operates with a large team of volunteers who are all Garda vetted, receive training before starting

to make calls/visits and are supported by experienced mentors. What is Friendly Call? Your Friendly Caller will chat to you about your day and will check on how you are feeling. The service provides friendship and security, making you feel safer at home. Your Friendly Caller will check that you have sufficient fuel for heat and also that you are receiving a cooked meal. If you do not answer the phone, the Friendly Caller will phone a member of your family, neighbour or friend. “At the moment many voluntary groups are figuring out what help they need and we are advising on how to become involved safely, to avoid any further transmission of the coronavirus,” said Martina Earley, CEO of Roscommon LEADER Partnership. “Now, more than ever, we strongly encourage people to volunteer through existing organisations that have experience in volunteer management. For the moment, Roscommon LEADER Partnership is advising everyone that the best way to volunteer is to follow all the necessary guidelines and directions issued by the State. “We are focused on ensuring the vulnerable are supported in the coming weeks, and are willing to provide assistance and advice to any organisations that are focused on helping these people”. Ms. Earley also added: “We would particular like to thank Arigna Fuels who kindly sponsored PPE for staff volunteering in the community. We would welcome donations from any business that will be forwarded on to the most vulnerable”. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is also advising volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis. If people are interested in volunteering we suggest they contact Roscommon LEADER Partnership’s volunteer information service by contacting Mena (086-0499 394) or by email at mena@ridc.ie. * For more information on any of the above please contact Roscommon LEADER Partnership on 090 663 0252 or Tomás on 0860460176. * Together we can all work together to flatten the curve #FlattentheCurve.

Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include… Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of need and working with existing similar service providers in the county.

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Extending our supports under the volunteer information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis. We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support. All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

Reeling in the ARCHIVES

News, views and something to amuse… Precarious position after Fermanagh defeat

5 YEARS AGO

< SHANE REYNOLDS

Severe weather leads to school closures and traffic accidents

Roscommon’s nightmare start to their Division 3 campaign continued as a last minute goal from Fermanagh’s James Sherry ensured that Fergal O’Donnell’s men left Brewster Park empty-handed on Saturday evening. It was harsh justice on the visiting side who had dominated proceedings for large periods, controlled the majority of the second half and looked to have secured victory as they had a two-point advantage deep into injury-time. The result will be of grave concern for the management team as Roscommon are now rooted to the bottom of Division 3 with an alarming scoring difference of -14. Their attentions will now turn to ensuring that they avoid relegation so with this in mind the next two games will be of vital importance. Fergal O’Donnell will be the first to acknowledge the fact that they are now in a precarious position after two defeats in games which they would have expected to register their opening points in the campaign. However with Antrim being the only team with a 100 percent record thus far, the division is wide open and a couple of wins in quick succession would see Roscommon propel themselves out of the danger zone. (From 19 February 2010)

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Treacherous weather conditions wreaked havoc in County Roscommon this week, causing road traffic accidents and forcing some schools to close. On Tuesday, snow began to fall throughout the region and by Wednesday morning much of the county had experienced extensive snowfall. Conditions in north Roscommon were particularly poor on Wednesday morning, forcing four schools – Kilronan NS, Cloonloo NS (Boyle), Ballinameen NS and Cootehall NS – to close for the day. The mountainous area of Arigna was covered in some four inches of snows, with roads virtually impassable. Sinn Féin Councillor Michael Mulligan said that three cars had gone off the road in Tibohine, Ballaghaderreen, on Wednesday morning. (From 16 January 2015)

Fears that some libraries in county will close < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Trade union officials and local public representatives have expressed fears that some of County Roscommon’s libraries will close. The IMPACT Trade Union, which represents library staff, held a meeting with local county councillors in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, last Thursday, at which such concerns were aired. The fear is based on proposals which, if implemented, would see the amalgamation of libraries in County Roscommon with those in counties Sligo and Leitrim. (From 16 January 2015)

A new Rossie – via Oz! < SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon county senior team could have one of the most interesting recruits of the year if the experiment with Michael Dufficy works out. The 23-year-old Australian came on with 20 minutes to go in the win against Sligo IT in the FBD League in Strokestown last Sunday. Michael was born, bred, and reared in Australia but has a well-known Roscommon and Tulsk father, Oliver Dufficy. The Roscommon County Board and the senior management team have been looking around the country and abroad to see if they could identify Rossies, or sons of Rossies, who might qualify and be good enough to play for Roscommon. Michael Dufficy, who was playing in Australia in the AFL for a team called Northern Blues (who are a reserve team for major league side Carlton), heard the call and sent a few DVDs of himself in action over to Roscommon! The Roscommon management team were impressed enough to ask him into the panel for trials and he came on as a sub in Stroketown last Sunday, having played in a few challenge games in recent weeks. Roscommon manager John Evans says that so far he is impressed with his new recruit. (From 16 January 2015)

Members of Shorinryu Karate Club, Roscommon, pictured as they trained in Roscommon Castle (2010).

From Paul Healy’s Week The taxi driver bringing us to Heuston tells us he’s from Ghana. We tell him we’re from Roscommon. He tells us he lived in Germany for four years. Then he talks about our narrow streets and our abundance of water. “Why doesn’t Ireland sell water…to places like Ghana?” he pleads, with a smile. He’s interested in ideas, he says, in how things work, and his friends are always telling him he should go into politics. For now, he’s staying in taxi-ing. He has a question for his Roscommon passengers. “How is Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan?” We tell him Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan is fine, and our Ghanian friend tells us that Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan is in fact great, because he doesn’t talk like the rest of the politicians. (From 27 February 2015)

St Valentine’s final date for St Croan’s after epic win AIB All-Ireland IFC semi-final: St Croan’s (Roscommon) 0-14 Sean O’Mahony’s (Louth) 2-7 < SEAMUS DUKE

When Conor Finnegan stood over a 30-metre free dead straight in front of the St Croan’s posts in the 4th minute of injury-time at Kingspan Breffni Park last Sunday, the huge following from Ballintubber and Ballymoe couldn’t bear to look. A point would send the game into extratime. But Finnegan pulled the free wide and the final whistle sounded. Cue mayhem. The Croan’s supporters screamed, cried, shouted and looked towards The Heavens in gratitude as they raced on to the field to hail their heroes. The men in blue and white would be representing their parish in the All-Ireland final at Croke Park on February the 14th after the most dramatic

finale you could wish to see. Ecstasy for Croan’s, heartbreaking stuff for Sean O’Mahony’s. The cruelty, and beauty, of sport. St Croan’s: Vincent Egan; Gerard Mockler, Gregory Grogan, Keith Keenan (0-1); Daniel Malone, Eamon Towey, Maurice Connaughton (0-2); Ross Timothy, Brian Mullin; Kevin Smyth (0-5, 4 frees), James Connaughton (0-1), Keith Muldoon; Robbie Keenan, Michael Holland (0-2), Aidan Brogan (0-3). Subs: Shane Smyth for Mullin (28), Philip Leech for Malone (Black Card, 40), Martin Towey for Muldoon (45), Cathal Connelly for Brogan (58). (From 30 January 2015)

10 YEARS AGO ‘Pour your own pint’ a hit in Harlow’s! < PAUL HEALY

Very novel ‘pour you own pint’ tables recently introduced by Guinness have come to Roscommon! According to Ray Whelahan in JJ’s, The Square, Roscommon, the two ‘self-contained’ tables which allow customers to pour their own drink were very well received when introduced in the popular bar recently. Ray explains: “Each table seats eight people and they serve draught Guinness and Carlsberg. Basically it means that if you book the table it’s yours for the night and you have the novelty of pouring your own drink. I swipe your card behind the counter and that’s how the payment works. So customers book the table and get to pour their own pint, keep their table and avoid having to come to the bar”. Ray says the novel tables are particularly popular when big matches are being screened or on busy weekend nights. (From 19 February 2010)

From Seamus Duke column We don’t need a banking enquiry, especially the kind that the government wants. Everyone knows what happened. It’s very simple. The Government did not do its job with regard to regulation of the banking sector. One bank (Anglo) was lending far too aggressively and recklessly and the others followed suit to try and compete. The lending was all for property and land, the prices for which went out of control and the whole deck of cards collapsed. That’s what happened. It had nothing to so with Lehman brothers as Bertie Ahern would have you believe. Those are the facts. Is there anyone responsible? There is in every other country. In Ireland, are you joking? (From 29 January 2010)

It’s official! ‘Lonely Planet’ loves Roscommon! < PAUL HEALY

One of the world’s leading tourists guides has hailed County Roscommon as an “up and coming” tourist destination which can even be preferable to “scenic superstars” like Connemara and Kerry. The 9th edition of Lonely Planet’s bestselling guidebook to Ireland, published on Wednesday 20th January, contains glowing reference to County Roscommon. The book states: “The overwhelming popularity of scenic superstars like Connemara and Kerry has seen the emergence of quieter idylls as the preferred destination of the discerning traveller, who has discovered the beauty of the lakes of Roscommon and the villages of Waterford, of rarely visited counties like Westmeath”. The Lonely Planet’s guidebook goes on to say that in places like Roscommon tourists can come into contact with a more genuine Ireland, “the kind removed from the slick machinery of the tourist trail”. (From 29 January 2010)

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Paul Healy’s take on top tweets!

Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns

Amy Louise O’Gara @AmyLou_OG Fr. Brian Darcy on #TommyTiernanShow is absolutely incredible. I’ve no attachment or affiliation with the Catholic Church anymore but he is what they need. The abuse he suffered & has come through.... he has moved with the times & never afraid to speak out. More of that! https:// twitter.com/KCMANC – Amy Louise was one of many viewers who appreciated the repeat showing of When Tommy Met Fr Brian… Kevin Cummins @KCMANC I love this moment in the #Maradona film. Somebody put a banner on the wall of the cemetery in Naples when #Napoli won its first Scudetto (League title) in 1987. It says: you don’t know what you missed... – The superb Channel 4 film/documentary on troubled football genius Diego Maradona was a gripping distraction from Covid-19… Towanda the Avenger @kendallybrown I worked for Hobby Lobby for 2 years and genuinely cannot adequately convey how awful these people are. Truly the most selfish, hateful faux-Christians I’ve ever had the displeasure of working for. – When David Green, the enormously wealthy CEO of arts and crafts retailer Hobby Lobby wrote to employees last week, he said the company would remain

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training & mentoring for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products open as “God is in control”. Not everybody was impressed Graham Merrigan @Merriganmania If we learnt anything this weekend, it was that we need a countrywide Lockdown, not sure what we’re waiting on, instead of been reactive, be proactive, shut it down, some people can’t be trusted! – People who are not social distancing – on beaches, in parks, even when queuing at takeaways (as seen on social media) – are infuriating those of us who are taking the Covid-19 advice as seriously as we all ought to. Cue calls for lockdown… Deirdre #StayhomeSavelives @mrskevieg @SimonHarrisTD @LeoVaradkar @simoncoveney

please don’t ask the general public to try and sort this out themselves. We need the guards & armed forces. #LockdownIreland is needed now. Not next week or the week after. Yours, a very anxious ICU nurse. – An ICU nurse adds her support for lockdown, and directs her call to our political masters… Martin Kenny @Martin_Kenny I am really concerned about the casual way some people are treating this #COVID19 spread. The beaches in Strandhill, Bundoran and all over the country have people congregating in large groups. Many people are still visiting each other’s homes and not being responsible. Cop on Now – Sligo/Leitrim TD Martin Kenny on those careless and irresponsible breaches on the beaches

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople “This is an extremely difficult time for everyone but it will pass and there will be better days ahead. Stay safe and be responsible.”

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

COVID-19

INFORMATION

Wash your hands Practice social distancing Don’t be afraid to ask for help Check in on elderly neighbours Be kind

IF YOU NEED ANY HELP OR ADVICE DO NOT HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME

 : 0871945254  : claire.kerrane@oireachtas.ie

His first question was ‘Did you bring a bottle?’ Before his death in 1953, George N. Geraghty wrote extensively about his memories of life in Roscommon Town (and environs) in the early years of the 20th century…the Roscommon People is pleased to serialise these fascinating memories Medical profession The medical profession was then very well represented in Roscommon. Apart from Dr. Blakeney, there were Dr. McLoughlin, living in the corner house at Convent Road, and Dr. Healy, living where MPJ Neilan, solicitor, has his home now. He was the dispensary doctor. The dispensary was in the Well Lane, now Henry Street. All patients going to him he addressed as ‘John’ and ‘Mary’ and his first question was “Did you bring a bottle?” He was a fine looking man, always well dressed and seldom without a tall silk hat. Dr. Harrison lived in the house now occupied by Mr. John Neilan in Abbey Street. I well remember seeing him start from outside his house to pay his morning visit to the workhouse (now The County Home). He had a very fine four-wheel phaeton and a first class horse, perfectly polished and groomed. He was a real lover of animals. He owned two or three racehorses, and a great assortment of dogs. The dogs, six or seven of them, would accompany him on his visits, running before and after the phaeton. He was very kind to the poor inmates and did all he could for them. In fact he was kind to all the poor of the town. And the townspeople did not forget him, as the Harrison Hall is there to remind them of all his kind deeds. Dr. McDonnell lived where Messrs. Farrell McDonnell, solicitors, are now at present. Like Dr. Harrison, he was very kind and attentive to the poor. Dr. Digby lived in the house that is now the Garda Station. He was a very handsome man and died when quite young from a fever contracted from one of his patients. The only chemist in the town was Dr. O’Brien. He lived in the house now owned by Harry Monaghan in Market Square. He changed from there to where Mrs. Jim Gavin is living now in Church Street. The law As for the legal side, Burke & Son, Farrell McDonnell, and John Whelan were the leading solicitors at the time. Others came and went. One Quinten Kennedy was I remember a great sport. He took

ROSCOMMON AS IT WAS ~ George N Geraghty ~

George N Geraghty pictured with his wife. Geraghty was a member of Roscommon Company in the 3rd Battalion South. Photo courtesy of Albert Siggins/‘They Put The Flag A-Flyin’’ (book)

part in the paper chases. We would get a lot of old newspapers and tear them into small pieces. They were then placed in a sack and one boy started across-country. As he ran, he scattered the pieces of paper which formed a trail. After he had a start of twenty minutes, the ‘pack’ would start on the trail over the fields, ditches and through hedges. It was a good form of cross-country running. Tradesmen of Roscommon The tradesmen were a very fine class of men. Each of them highly

skilled in his particular trade. Carpenters, stone masons, slaters and plasterers, coachbuilders, black-smiths, boot and shoe makers, painters, nailers, coopers, etc. The outstanding carpenters were the Curleys, Harkins, Gannons and Burkes. Henry Carroll was a first class plasterer and slater; his son Richard carried on the good work and excelled at all branches of the trade. The stonemasons were the Gilloolys, Tom and Dan, the Geraghtys, Pat and his sons Jack and Willie. Dan Foley and his sons Tom and Pat, and Peter Brady. The Foleys and Peter Brady lived in Ballymurray. The working hours at the building then from 7 am to 6 pm and the Foleys and P. Brady were always on the job to time – although they had to walk to and from Ballymurray to Roscommon (three miles). The painters Bernard Waldron, the Baxter family, John Moffit and his son James. B. Waldron’s sign writing and graining work was first class. Pat Loftus was famous for cart-making, the farmers gave him great credit for wheel work. Michael Doolan was a cooper. He made churns, tubs and feeding troughs. He lived in Goff Street. The old castle I cherish fond recollections of the old castle ruins. It was a great meeting place for the boys and the climbing to the different high parts caused keen competition, as did handball and pitch and toss. Many of the townspeople spent the summer evening in and around the old ruins, some reading, others having a game of cards. The Antiquarian Society carried out some repairs to the old stonework some time ago. Before they started the work of repair, the old building was almost covered with ivy and lovely it looked in its mantle of green. The workmen got orders to cut away the ivy and well they did the job. Not a trace of the ivy left and now it looks a drab pile, cold and grey. The RIC The Royal Irish Constabulary barracks was at one time situated where Mrs. George Jackson has her shop. From there it moved to Dr. Killmartin’s in The Square. Another move was to the old military barracks near the Railway Station and from there to the Old Jail near the Courthouse. The prisoners were taken through an underground passage leading from an opening inside the gate near the present handball alley to the Dock in the Courthouse.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

‘Life is going to be very different for a while. Let’s embrace it… and this will pass’ Vita House continues to offer counselling, family therapy and support services to the community. Counselling sessions are currently being offered by telephone or Skype. Please contact the centre for more information by calling 0906625898 or emailing info@vitahouse.org. If you have not attended the centre previously, but have concerns and would like to seek the support of a professional, please contact us. Roscommon Cancer Support centre continues to offer counselling services by telephone or Skype. Touch therapy and groups have been temporarily discontinued on the advice of the HSE and Irish Cancer society. Call 0906625898 for more information. Roscommon Suicide Bereavement Liaison Service can be accessed by telephone or email on 0857407856 or twalsh@vitahouse.org We are mindful that it can be hard to be positive in the current climate. If you are feeling lonely, stressed or isolated, please ring the Development Worker Felicia on 087 1172769 between the hours of 5.30pm and 9pm for a supportive chat. Whether you are trying to work from home while home schooling and entertaining children or you are taking care of a loved one who normally might be in a service during the day so you get a break... whatever the circumstances, please don't hesitate to contact us.You can set this up by emailing us on familysupport.srfrc@vitahouse.org, by private message on our Facebook page, or by calling Vita House on 0906625898 (during office hours 9 am to 5pm). From all the staff of Vita House Services, we wish you good health at this difficult time. Most importantly, be safe, take care of yourself and each other, and wash your hands. Vita House Family Centre is a place of welcome for all, where families and individuals are encouraged and supported to develop their true potential 0906625898 info@vitahouse.org .Vita House Services clg CRO Number: 475518 CHY Number: 19275 Charity Reg. No.: 20075385

< SARAH BRENNAN

Mindset is our collection of beliefs and values, and mindset affects each of our thoughts and habits. Mindset is a primary factor in how we make sense of the world. Mindset is also malleable. We can choose to reflect on how we think and how we see things, and with practice, we can learn to take a more positive approach. For example, many people are self-isolating at home: we can choose to see this as a kind of enforced confinement, or we can see it as our best effort and our civic responsibility to keep ourselves, our family and our community safe. We often form our beliefs based on the noise around us – the people we interact with day to day, the news, social media, print media, etc. But at this time of profound change and uncertainty, we can choose to take a step back from all the noise and examine our values more closely. The reality is that most of us know now what our responsibilities are in relation to hand-washing, physical distancing and other precautionary measures, we don’t need to have the news on around the clock telling us to keep this up. We must also accept that we can only be responsible for our own actions around these guidelines; we have no control over the actions of others. While many of us are becoming overwhelmed with the volume of information, misinformation and general chatter online around our current struggles, we can very easily adjust what we see. We can choose to block particularly troubling sites on the individual platforms or through our internet browser – it’s enough to check in with trusted sources once a day to keep ourselves informed. But if this crisis has taught us anything, it’s that the Internet can also be an incredibly powerful tool for good. Many professionals, performers, artists, agencies and businesses are reviewing their engagement, looking at their talents and reserves, and sharing them with their communities. The volume of resources to help educate, entertain and support every member of the family is simply incredible. We may not have chosen it for ourselves, but life is going to be very different for a while. Let’s embrace it. Now is the time to sit and write out the list of things you’ve been putting off, then in your own time take each item and work through it. But go gently; now is not the time for pressuring ourselves into achieving. If you have a talent or some wisdom that you have always wanted to share, then do it. Spend a little time familiarising yourself with the technology you require (it might be simpler than you think), and find a way to write or record whatever it is you have to offer. Make the call you haven’t been taking the time to make. Check in with someone you think could use a chat. Learn something new online or from a book. Keep connected in a positive way, but allow yourself to pause and be grateful, you may never get a chance like this again. Enjoy the extra time with your loved ones. Be glad that we live in a society where there are caring professionals continuing to go to work each day to ensure that you have the provisions, the support, the care, the expertise and the medicine that you need to be well. Find a way to thank someone. This will pass. * Sarah Brennan is Coordinator, South Roscommon Family Resource Centre/Acting Director of Services, Vita House Family Centre

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

Keane’s

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 090 6663849 E-Mail keaneathleague@centra.ie

Here at Centra Athleague we are working hard to keep essential services going in these very difficult times. The safety of our Staff & Customers is of paramount importance to us, and we are implementing all the safety guidelines issued by the Department. We thank everybody for co-operating with us and observing the social distance guidelines, the sanitising of hands, trolleys etc.

We are operating a delivery service to anyone in the general area who wishes to stay safely in their own homes. We are very grateful to the Athleague GAA Club, for offering their assistance in this. Assistance is also being offered by both Tremane GAA and Fuerty GAA Clubs and by others also. They will also collect medicines or any other essentials.

In these troubled times when the usually sociable Irish (and of course our friends from other Nations amongst us) are told to keep apart it is great to see a coming together of Community Spirit. Together we will beat this. Stay safe. Contact us at Keanes Centra 090 6663849 (E-Mail keaneathleague@centra.ie) or Athleague GAA, Kevin McGeeney, 087 9848702 or Tremane GAA, 087 9460908 or Fuerty GAA, Gerry Wynne 086 8076790 or Seamus Murray 087 2222874 Boyle native keeps (St Patrick) flag flying in New York! Boyle native Hilary Beirne was to the fore as a small group of New York Parade committee members preserved the great tradition of St. Patrick’s Day Parades in New York last week (see photo). In the early hours of St. Patrick’s Day, a group of approximately 10 parade committee members (observing social distancing in response to the Covid-19 outbreak) proudly marched with a small escort from the ‘Fighting 69th’ Regiment of New York, led by Regimental Piper Joe Brady. The group marched from 26th Street to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan to preserve the proud 259-year tradition of the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade (taking place on the streets of New York City every year since 1762). Leading this symbolic New York City St. Patrick’s Day event with the Parade’s banner were Malachy McAllister (Co. Tyrone), Sean Lane (Co. Galway) and Hilary Beirne, native of Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

NEWS…at a glance

Ballymoe Bingo cancelled

As part of the national response to Covid-19, and following advice from the Department of Health, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the HSE, the Ballymoe Development Bingo, due to take place on Sunday evening, March 29th has now being cancelled until further notice.

Roscommon Garden Club meeting cancelled

Castlerea CFRC closed due to Covid-19

Castlerea Community and Family Resource Centre is currently closed to the public in light of the Covid-19 HSE guidelines. However, staff are available from Monday to Friday to provide support, guidance and advice either by phone or email. If you need support please do not hesitate to contact Aisling on 086-4615537 or aisling.nolan@castlereacfrc. ie or Martina on 086-1711394 or martina.durkan@castlereacfrc.ie. The Family Drop In Clinic will be available on Tuesdays from 9.30 am 12 pm. Should parents need school materials or resources printed or any other support, please contact staff.

Donations of clean and reusable clothes and hats, scarves, curtains, bed linen (not duvets or pillows) shoes (pairs), handbags, and belts are welcome. Clothes can be left at the Community Park clubhouse on the following dates: Friday, March 27th from 2 to 4 pm; Saturday, March 28th from 10 am to 12 pm; Friday, April 3rd from 2 to 4 pm; Saturday, April 4th from 10 am to 12 pm and Friday, April 10th from 2 to 4 pm and Saturday, April 11th from 10 am to 12 pm. Thanks for your support. For more information, please contact 089-584922l3.

Boyle native Hilary Beirne was to the fore as a small group of New York Parade committee members preserved the great tradition of St. Patrick’s Day Parades in New York last week

Active Age Group activities cancelled Due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus, all group activities are hereby cancelled until further notice. At this stage the Bealtaine Festival scheduled for Wednesday, May 13th is also in doubt. The committee will keep the group updated and will be

guided by the medical advice given by authorities. For any other enquiries, contact the secretary on 086-8417873.

Ballaghaderreen Community Park clothes collection

The Ballaghaderreen Community Park committee is holding a clothes collection to raise funds towards the ongoing costs of the park.

Due to the continuing spread of the coronavirus, Roscommon Garden Club has decided to cancel upcoming meetings. With great regret, the meetings on Monday, March 30th and Monday, April 27th will now not take place. This decision has been taken in the best interest of our members. For any queries, please contact Pat on 0906625694 or 086-0774017.

Ballygar Fashion Sale postponed A ladies’ fashion sale due to take place on Saturday, April 11th from 11 am to 6 pm in the Mattie McDonagh Centre, Ballygar has been postponed due to the outbreak of Covid-19.

To send news to your local newspaper…email news@roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

In light of the Government’s announcement regarding Covid-19 Coronavirus I am not out and about but I am available to help if you have any issues or concerns.

I can be contacted on 086 3726743 or email cllrkshanagher@roscommoncoco.ie Independent Community Councillor

Cllr. Kathleen

SHANAGHER Ard Aoibhinn, Athlone Road, Roscommon

Waldron ANTHONY Cllr.

Feeling vulnerable and alone, need some help? – the Waldron team are only a phone call away, don’t hesitate to call ...

086 7866774 Cystic Fibrosis Ambassador Ciara Murray with Fergal Smyth, CFI welcome Denis Naughton, TD Roscommon Galway for his support in improving services for people with cystic fibrosis (CF) in Ireland. Support Cystic Fibrosois Ireland and buy a purple rose for €2 or donate online at cfireland.ie for 65 Roses Day on Friday 10th April. Photo: SON Photo

Roscommon people urged to support 65 Roses Day More than five people living with Cystic Fibrosis in Roscommon The people of Roscommon are being urged to show their support for people living with cystic fibrosis and their families by donating online at 65rosesday.ie on Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s 65 Roses Day, Friday, 10th of April. The annual fundraising flag day is the largest fundraising event of the year for Cystic Fibrosis

Ireland and unfortunately collections have had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. At this time of unprecedented challenge, now more than ever, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland need your support so they can continue to provide much-needed support for people with Cystic Fibrosis in Ireland. You can get behind the appeal by donating online at 65rosesday.ie. Among the well-known faces to lend their support to this very worthy cause, and encouraging the public to rally behind it, is local TD, Deputy Denis Naughten who recently attended the national launch of the fundraising campaign.

Ireland has the highest incidence of CF in the world and some of the most severe types. There are almost 1,400 people living with CF in Ireland and the number is increasing each year as a result of improvements in treatment and care. According to recently-published statistics from the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland, there were under 10 with CF registered as being from Co. Roscommon in 2018. People can find the appeal on Facebook at facebook.com/CysticFibrosisIreland and on Twitter at twitter.com/cf_ireland. The campaign hashtag is #65RosesDay

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE WITH MODERN ALUMINIUM EXTENSIVE RANGE OF ALUMINIUM OUR UNIQUE AFFINITY DESIGN SITS FLUSH WITH THE EXTERIOR OFFERING A SLEEK CONTEMPORARY LOOK FOR YOUR HOME

Contact 090 6626753/014626671 Visits to our Dublin & Roscommon showrooms are strictly by appointment only due to Covid-19 restrictions

CRAFTED - DESIGNED - MANUFACTURED- INSTALLED www.seandoylewindows.ie info@seandoylewindows.ie

Always ready to help! We will survive this too shall pass! www.localsupport.ie

Please have your Eircode to hand

Cllr. Tony Ward Nora and family

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

Whilst adhering to all HSE Guidelines, I will be available to all my constituents and all members of the community. Please contact me if you need help of any kind, or shopping or medication collected. Stay safe.

Councillor JOE MURPHY Telephone:

0861052197 • Please listen to, trust and adhere to the professional medical advice • Call neighbours and friends on the phone • Keep to your normal routine – this is important in terms of everyone’s mental health at this stressful time • Avail of Government schemes immediately, instead of waiting; it will help re: family and business incomes/ the economy (and also avoid backlogs) • Please maintain social distancing – and stay safe

I am available to help people – please do not hesitate to contact me Stay safe everyone.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL SERVICES DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC Roscommon County Council continues to be open for business, delivering our services. While our offices remain open, in the interests of public health and to conduct our business in the safest manner possible, we are encouraging members of the public to use our online services, telephone, email and post to engage with the Council. In the first instance please use the range of online services available on our newly launched ‘My Online Services’ available at www.roscommoncoco.ie where you can avail of a growing number of online services provided by Roscommon County Council. Our primary contact number is 090 66 37100; Email: info@roscommoncoco.ie Postal address: Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town. F42 VR98. We would strongly advise the public to follow the guidance issued by our health professionals in relation to COVID-19 especially in practicing social distancing. In addition, we would encourage the public to watch out for each other particularly the vulnerable in our society. These are very difficult times for everyone. Our priority in Roscommon County Council is to ensure that essential services are maintained and be available to support the HSE in any way we can. · Rates: Clearly, we understand the difficulties facing a number of businesses at this time and their concerns will not be ignored by Roscommon County Council. We will continue to work with the ratepayers who are experiencing difficulties and we encourage those ratepayers to contact Roscommon County Council. We would ask ratepayers that can pay or part pay their commercial rates to continue doing so. We can be contacted at 090 6637210 or email rates@roscommoncoco.ie ·

Local Enterprise Office (LEO): Roscommon Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is ready to assist business to address the critical challenges presented by COVID-19 virus pandemic, and we want business owners to know that there are supports in place to further help them with the challenges they are suddenly facing. For further queries contact Roscommon Local Enterprise Office at 090 6626263 or email localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie. Full details on website at https://www.localenterprise.ie/Response

Community Facilities: Currently all outdoor recreational facilities, remain open to the public with the exception of playgrounds. Closure of playgrounds throughout the county will protect the young against the spread of the virus. We ask parents to please adhere to the closure of the playgrounds and not to allow their children to play there.

Libraries: In adherence to the HSE advice our libraries, arts and cultural and leisure centers continue to be closed to the public, but our work continues behind the scenes. You can still get in touch if you would like to access some of the fantastic range of services like audio books, Britannica online, catalogue search and eMagazines. Contact the Library at 090 66 37270 or email roslib@ rscommoncoco.ie

Community Engagement: Roscommon County Council in collaboration with An Garda Siochana have developed an interactive map which represents volunteer groups and other relevant services that are on-call for those who need them most. More information available at http://www.roscommoncoco. ie/en/Services/COVID-19-Services-Updates/

The public are reminded that applications for motor tax renewals can be processed online at www.motortax.ie Phone 090 6637100 or email motortax@roscommoncoco.ie with any queries.

Our Housing Department remains operational and encourage the public not to call in person where possible. Contact 090 6637230 or email housing@ roscommoncoco.ie

The Environment Department encourages complaints to be submitted by phone or email. Photographs and location details are particularly useful in helping us to locate incidents that are reported. Contact environment@roscommoncoco.ie or phone 090 6637260.

All Civic Amenity Sites are currently operational as normal in Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea and Boyle. Opening hours are Monday, Friday and Saturdays from 8.00am to 4.00pm.

Roads Department - All of our road crews continue to be deployed to general maintenance assignments. The National Regional Roads Office continue to work on our major roads capital projects.

Our Water Services staff continue to ensure there is a quality water and wastewater service provided throughout the county on behalf of Irish Water. We are continuing with our water and wastewater testing and monitoring as normal. For updates on water services please see www.water.ie or phone 1850 278278.

Planning functions are operating as normal but customers are encouraged to post or email documentation. Planning can be contacted by phone at 090 6637175 or by email planning@roscommoncoco.ie

The Fire Service based from Fire Stations at Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Elphin & Strokestown continue to respond to emergency calls via the 999/112 system. Fire Safety Enquires can be made by email to ccox@ roscommoncoco.ie or ekelly@roscommoncoco.ie Roscommon Civil Defence enquires can be made by email to fconroy@ roscommoncoco.ie

· ·

Submission of Fire Safety Certificates and Disability Access Certificates will continue to be accepted by post. Enquires for Building Control can be made by email to jreilly@roscommoncoco.ie (Compliance on Completion Certificates) or dtalbot@roscommoncoco.ie (Commencement Notices) or ccox@ roscommoncoco.ie (Fire Safety Certs/ 7 day Notices/Regularisation Certs).

The Táin March Festival which was scheduled for May 2020 has been cancelled. It is hoped that a revised schedule of events may be possible in the Autumn.

Calls for urgent support for radio and newspapers Pressure is growing on Communications Minister Richard Bruton to urgently support the local newspaper and radio industries. A number of TDs, including Roscommon/Galway Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, have called on Minister Bruton to put in place measures to ensure that the independent radio sector and local and regional newspapers can be supported during the COVID-19 crisis. Independent TDs Michael Fitzmaurice, Michael McNamara and Marian Harkin said there is an urgent and immediate threat to the survival of these industries. In a statement, they said: “Unless urgent action is taken by the Government, it is inevitable at this time of national crisis – as advertising revenues collapse – that hundreds of jobs will be lost in the independent radio sector. This will inevitably lead to the closure of many independent radio stations. “The independent radio sector is an extremely important and powerful tool for providing news, current affairs and public information, particularly in the context of local happenings and circumstances. “Many of the listeners have a huge loyalty to their local station and if

those stations were to cease broadcasting people would be bereft…this would add hugely to the isolation that many people already feel due to the current public health crisis”. Continuing, the independent TDs indicated that consideration must also be shown for local and regional newspapers who have also felt the huge negative impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. “The national Government, local Government and the HSE need to spread out their advertising budgets across these regional and local newspapers, as well as the national media outlets. Newspapers have seen their revenue from advertising dip drastically as a result of this virus outbreak. “These regional and local newspapers provide a valuable public service to people in their catchment areas, as well as a source of employment for many” the TDs concluded. Independent Roscommon/Galway TD Denis Naughten added his support on Twitter: Sad to hear reports this evening of more local job losses as a result of #coronavirus‬‬ in local newspapers. With so many older people cocooned & many many more who

will have to self isolate, they need this vital source of local news. Sinn Féin view Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and the Environment David Cullinane TD has called on the government to step up supports for local print and broadcasting media. He was responding to news that the Iconic Newspaper Group has had to lay off dozens of journalists, photographers and advertising staff due to a collapse in revenue. Deputy Cullinane said: “Over the last week, I have engaged directly with Minister Richard Bruton on the need for supports for local print and broadcast media. Local newspapers and radio stations are reeling from a collapse in revenue. “I have put forward solutions to Minister Bruton aimed at providing financial support to local print and broadcasting media, including an immediate release of €5 million in funding under the Sound and Vision scheme and for government Departments to take out advertisements in local publications. This will provide much-needed revenue while also aiding in disseminating important Covid-19 related information”.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION That’s why John gives us the detail about Lazarus’ sister, Mary – that she is the one who anointed the Lord for burial (see John 12:3, 7). His disciples warn against returning to Judea; Thomas even predicts they will “die with Him” if they go back. When Lazarus is raised, John notices the tombstone being taken away, as well as Lazarus’ burial cloths and head covering – all details he later notices with Jesus’ empty tomb (see John 20:1, 6, 7). Like the blind man in last week’s readings, Lazarus represents all humanity. He stands for “dead man” – for all those Jesus loves and wants to liberate from the bands of sin and death. John even recalls the blind man in his account today (see John 11:37). Like the man’s birth in blindness, Lazarus’ death is used by Jesus to reveal “the glory of God” (see John 9:3). And again like last week, Jesus’ words and deeds give sight to those who believe (see John 11:40).

If we believe, we will see – that Jesus loves each of us as He loved Lazarus, that He calls us out of death and into new life. By His Resurrection Jesus has fulfilled Ezekiel’s promise in today’s First Reading. He has opened the graves that we may rise, put His Spirit in us that we may live. This is the Spirit that Paul writes of in today’s Epistle. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead will give life to we who were once dead in sin. Faith is the key. If we believe as Martha does in today’s Gospel – that Jesus is the resurrection and the life – even if we die, we will live. “I have promised and I will do it,” the Father assures us in the First Reading. We must trust in His word, as we sing in today’s Psalm – that with Him is forgiveness and salvation. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

These past few weeks have been extraordinary

We have been so saddened to see lots of our local family businesses closing their doors for the duration of this virus. Thank you to our incredible team who have all worked so hard to keep us baking and serving our loyal retail and wholesale customers. The changes we have made in our business have been difficult for our staff and customers. We are so thankful to all who have encouraged us and have given us the support to keep us positive in these difficult times. Please continue to do your part in keeping you and your loved ones safe.

#staysafe – Molloy family

To help anyone who needs it, we will now offer home delivery within 5km of Roscommon Town.

Orders can be placed by: Email: info@molloysbakery.ie Telephone: 090 6625940 Website: www.molloysbakery.ie

with a cut off time of 3 p.m. for next day delivery.

We have made up a quick order €13.00 Box which includes: Brown Soda Bread, Lemon Sensation cake, 2 x Fruit Scones, Barm Brack and Irish Independent, (plus Roscommon People on a Thursday.)

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Or you can place your own unique order to suit the needs of yourself, family or friends

All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Telephone: 090 6630252

Part of the Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Leader distribution initiative Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include…

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

‘Roscommon Responds’ – a crisis response to help the community < PAUL HEALY

‘Roscommon Responds’, which will be launched in the coming days, is a Roscommon Chamber of Commerce initiative aimed at helping local householders, and businesses, during the Covid-19 crisis. The initiative is being undertaken with the support of Roscommon LEADER Partnership and in conjunction with the Roscommon People newspaper. ‘Roscommon Responds’ is a home delivery system aimed at ensuring that local businesses can reach customers at this time of crisis. Brendan Allen, who was recently elected as President of Roscommon Chamber, said: “Working with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, we are creating a network of people (and logistics) to arrange delivery of orders to people in the Roscommon Town catchment area”. It is felt that the initiative will provide a vital service to householders, and also be a lifeline (at least to some degree) for the local economy – which is reeling from the impact of Covid-19. Also, by putting a workable plan in place now, it ensures that a delivery system will be up and running in the event of a full lockdown.

We are looking for all businesses in Roscommon town that want to get involved to contact:

Brendan Allen – 087 2231202 president@roscommonchamber.com or Cait McConn – 086 0859275 Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon secretary@roscommonchamber.com Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people

Roscommon Chamber now lenging of times for the public. and communities are is facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to know that we are in working on a range of*community and measures while will we are inviting all businesses RoscomA full listsupports of participating shops extending many they currentcan services community. These supports include… mon Town who feel getto reach the bewider available in the coming days on involved in this project toExtending make our “Meals www.roscommonchamber.com and on on Wheels” Service to additional areas of contact now (see contact need details and on working www.roscommonpeople.ie with existing similar service providers in the county.is opposite page). The Chamber stressing that this initiative is open How it works to ALL businesses (not just Cham1. Call in your order with your Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living ber members). In fact, membership favourite shops in town and alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers. to Roscommon Chamber of Compay over the phone merce is free this year (see www. 2. They will coordinate delivery roscommonchamber.com). to you the LEADER Extending our supports under thevia volunteer informationPartservices programme to existing voluntary groups andusing giving social advice to The project will be trialed in nership network, volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the Roscommon Town and environs distancing procedures crisis. first, but every effort will be made 3. All will be done in the safest WeReare currently identifying areas with in service social provision to expand the Roscommon possible waygaps (observing and working in collaboration with Government Departments and sponds network so that the service distancing guidelines) in these other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & is available to as wide a catchment sensitive the self employed including additionaltimes admin support. area as possible in this most chalAll activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Roscommon businesses praised

Brendan Allen, President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, has expressed thanks to the numerous businesses in Roscommon Town and environs which have shown such great community leadership by temporarily closing their premises’ in the interests of public health. Mr. Allen said: “On behalf of Roscommon Chamber, I want to thank all those businesses who have been so proactive at this time. This is a very difficult time for these businesses and for the local economy. “Many jobs are lost or under threat, and livelihoods are under severe pressure. The majority of this was done voluntarily, before any mandates came from Government. This is great leadership from our business community. Our thoughts are with these business owners, their staff and families, as with the wider public. “When this crisis passes – as it eventually will – we hope to see all these businesses reopen and thrive again”.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of

ROSCOMMON RESPONDS

need and working with existing similar service providers in the Roscommon LEADER county. Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communitiesExtending are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers. Supporting Peoplesupports and Communities in Roscommon know that we are working on a range of community and measures while we are Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people A extending Roscommon ofunderCommerce inacross association withsupports The Roscommon People manyChamber current services tovolunteer reach theinitiative wider community. These include… and communities are facing right County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to Extending our supports the information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving know thatadvice we aretoworking on a range of community supports and measures while we volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include… crisis.

are

To the peopleonofWheels” Roscommon: Extending our “Meals Service to additional areas of Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of need crisis. and working withhealth existing similar service providers in in the concern. As a community, we need respond to thewith Covid-19 Our is the paramount needto and working existing similar service providers the county. We must also keep Roscommon county. Town ‘moving’ to ensure that we can live as normally as possible For many years you have come to town to shop. Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly voice from to trained volunteers. Now, with Roscommon Responds, the offering towna friendly will come you! Roscommon LEADER Partnership have led the way by coming up with initiatives Extending “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living to provide our support and logistics to our communities Extending our supports under the volunteer information services alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers. programme to existing voluntary groups and giving Now, Roscommon Chamber, with the support of Roscommon LEADER andadvice theto volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the Roscommon People newspaper,crisis. is preparing to launch… We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support.

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision

working in collaboration with Government Departments and ROSCOMMON and RESPONDS other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed &

the self employed including additional admin support. A delivery system to helpour local businesses reach this time ofservices crisis Extending supports under thecustomers volunteer at information

programme to HOW existingITvoluntary WORKS groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they canTomás: stay safe while volunteering during the Telephone: 090 6630252 Supporting 086 0460176 Gail:and 086 8532915 Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394 People Communities in Roscommon 1. Call in your order with your favourite shops in town and pay over the phone crisis. to you via the LEADER Partnership network 2. They will coordinate delivery All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon

Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include…

Roscommonin LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people 3. All will be done the safest possible way (observing social distancing guidelines) in these sensitive times

We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision * A full list of participating shops and will beworking available in the days on www.roscommonchamber.com and on www.roscommonpeople.ie in coming collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & CALL TO ACTION the self employed including additional admin support. We are looking for all businesses in Roscommon town that want to get involved to contact: and communities are facing right across County Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include…

Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of need and working with existing similar service providers in the county.

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Extending our supports under the volunteer information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon Brendan – 087 2231202 president@roscommonchamber.com LEADER PartnershipAllen is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query onCait any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers: McConn – 086 0859275 secretary@roscommonchamber.com Extending our supports under the volunteer information services programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

Telephone: 090 6630252

We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support.

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Thank you – and stay safe

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

(please follow HSE guidelines re: Covid-19)

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

COVID-19

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

Country close to lockdown as further restrictions imposed Still less than five cases in Roscommon Devastating blow for businesses, jobs < PAUL HEALY

County Roscommon still has less than five coronavirus cases, according to Department of Health figures. 204 more cases of Covid-19 were confirmed on Tuesday evening, bringing the total in the Republic of Ireland to 1,329. As of Wednesday morning, there have now been seven Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland. As of midnight on Monday, 17,992 tests have been carried out in

laboratories across the country. As the emergency wreaks havoc on the economy, several hundred small businesses in County Roscommon have closed, with thousands of temporary job losses. Roscommon’s towns and villages are eerily quiet, with many people working from home and most people remaining indoors except for excursions to the shop, their place of work or for exercise. A further range of local businesses closed (temporarily) this week as the Government announced further stringent measures aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he was asking people to stay at home, unless they could not work from home. Schools and childcare facilities will remain closed until the 19th of April. Non-essential retail businesses and facilities are to close, effective from midnight on Tuesday. The following recommendations were made by the National Public Health Emergency Team and adopted by Gov-

ernment at a meeting on Tuesday: * Individuals should work from home unless attendance at the workplace is absolutely essential.  · * Non-essential retail outlets are to close to members of the public. Essential retail outlets are to implement strict physical distancing measures.  · * All sporting events are cancelled, including those behind closed doors. * All playgrounds and holiday/caravan parks are closed. * All cafes and restaurants are to operate on a take-away or delivery basis. Strict physical distancing measures apply to queuing for this service. * People should not use public transport unless it is absolutely necessary.    Meanwhile, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, working closely with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, is launching a service aimed at ensuring that goods are delivered to thousands of people throughout the crisis. The ‘Roscommon Responds’ project is also devised to provide a desperately needed lift to small businesses in the

county town, most of which have been devastated by the initial economic fallout from the pandemic. Businesses which get involved will accept orders over the phone and then contact ‘Roscommon Responds’ – a special network of people being set up by Roscommon Chamber, with LEADER support. Members of the network will then deliver the goods/products to people in Roscommon Town and environs, while observing social distancing guidelines. A list of participating businesses will be published in the Roscommon People and on the Chamber’s website and social media platforms. It is intended to expand the service to as wide an area as possible. The delivery service will be of great importance to the elderly and vulnerable, but also to every household at a time when social distancing is called for, with people expected to stay in their homes as much as possible. The initiative will also help small local businesses which are reeling from the impact of Covid-19.

“

Businesses which get involved will accept orders over the phone and then contact ‘Roscommon Responds’ – a special network of people being set up by Roscommon Chamber, with LEADER support.

From a balcony in Xabia, a Rossie thinks of home I left fearing I would miss a classic in the Athletic grounds in Armagh. The last instalment between the teams in July 2018 was a classic on a scorching hot day in Portlaoise. One wonders what trick the great ‘Geezer’ Kieran McGeeney would have had up his sleeve for the Rossies. Alas, El Clásico nuevo did not go ahead and indeed the whole gaelic football league seems in jeopardy. Of course, from this balcony here in the port area of Xabia, Eastern Spain, nobody mentions the top two heavyweights of division two. The locals incarcerated in their pisos were not anticipating the ways Anthony Cunningham was setting out to entrap messers. Clarke and O’Neill. They care less about who else would have joined the Conors, Cox and Hussey, back on the healthy-again list to give hope and eternal positivity to the primrose and blue faithful as they look toward defending their Connacht crown in 2020. Instead, people’s concerns here are for their most basic needs – food, water and vital medicines. As and from Saturday, the 14th of March, due to the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic, the country has been on lockdown. A red alert national emergency. Nobody is allowed outside but for essential trips to the supermarket or pharmacy. Exception to this rule is if you are a dog owner – the perros around Xabia do not know what has hit them. They have received more

“

attention and been on more walks and runs with their ‘owners’ in the last ten days than they have experienced in the last ten weeks.

Lots of lessons will be learned from all this, none more so than the realisation of what is really important to all of us. The great county of Roscommon is being fondly thought of from people far and wide, none more so than on this balcony in Xabia Locally the situation is very strange. As a very frequent visitor to this particular part of the country, life here in the seaside town of Xabia/ Javea (pronounced Have-eee-ah) has changed dramatically. Every imaginable dayto-day activity involves the regular and persistent interaction of people, close up and outdoors. It is quiet as I type this from a small top floor flat overlooking

the inviting Mediterranean sea. The brilliant birdsong can be heard clearly, the luscious lapping waves coming in on the pebbles of the port beach are all-encompassing. You see, one thing I have learned from my many years of both living and visiting here is that there is a reason why the vast majority of people live in flats and apartments. Perhaps people do not need the home comforts and extravagant houses that we may be accustomed to in Ireland, simply because life is lived en la calle (in the streets) here. Regardless of what is being reported through media sites and across the all-encompassing communication networks in these modern times, the truth is, that yes, the situation is severe here. We’re not quite China or suffering the same grave situation presently unfolding in Italy, but the Spanish people in this twenty thousand-plus populated town are doing something they or their fellow countrymen/women do not normally do. They are quedando en casa, staying at home and not going about their outdoor lives, which is something that seems as natural as breathing here. Of course social, cultural and all gatherings of people has been affected. La Liga, Spanish football’s top flight and all other sporting and social events are cancelled, just like in most other parts of the world. However, something about the way people live their lives here tells

me that self-isolation has more of an effect on the populace here than it does back home in Roscommon. I hear great tales of the lovely walks around Sliabh Ban, Mote Park and Lanesborough proving very popular these past number of days, but this is a luxury shut off to people here. The resilence is strong however – noted by the rapturous applause, fireworks, music and singing at eight o’clock every evening from the balconies of homes strewn all across Xabia and indeed the country. Such a daily ritual procession has a binary focus. Originally to thank all the frontline workers here in España, healthcare professionals who are working around the clock in an effort to combat the coronavirus that spreads across the land of the Toro at an alarming rate. However, the solidarity of such daily applause in showing that we are all together in this, is empowering and meaningful. The calming message that todo saldrá bien is uplifting and encouraging and gives hope to Spain and to her some fortyseven million inhabitants. Things are continuing to get worse before they get better here. People in Xabia though, for the most part have heeded the warnings and have stayed indoors. The uncertainty and impending lack of hope are in a lot of cases actually more fearsome than the virus itself. The fines being handed out by the local and national police for any-

one that is caught outdoors when they should not be is both frightening but also – most would agree – necessary. For now, we plod along in a bubble of uncertainty. Sometimes it is better not to search for knowledge of the total number of virus cases as it jumps through the thousands. Incarceration for a few more weeks or months is surely worthwhile if we can rid this corner of Europe of further spread. The lackadaisical traits of the Spanish have slowly changed in the past ten days and will need to continue for the foreseeable future. What lies ahead, emotionally, socially and economically are an unknown for now, but the old Ni neart go chur le cheile adage exists here too: Juntos estamos mas fuerte. I would like to think that the strong defensive Roscommon mindset epitomised by Cunningham’s troops as they headed into the Orchard den is reflected out here on the balconies of Eastern Spain. We may not be a band of Pearses’ brothers but together we are uniting by staying indoors and not giving into the temptation of walks along the pretty playas that stretch out before us. Lots of lessons will be learned from all this, none more so than the realisation of what is really important to all of us. The great county of Roscommon is being fondly thought of from people far and wide, none more so than on this balcony in Xabia.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

COVID-19

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

Local Men’s Sheds…‘we’re ready to help’ Social media causing ‘untold stress and anxiety’ < PAUL HEALY

Pat Towey, a Support Worker representing the Irish Men’s Shed Association in counties Roscommon and Leitrim, has appealed to people to look out for the wellbeing of members of Men’s Sheds at this very difficult time. Mr. Towey has also warned that inaccurate information on social media is causing “untold stress and anxiety”. And he confirmed that members of local Men’s Sheds are themselves ready and willing to help others at this time of need. Mr. Towey said: “In these uncertain times, we are asking the general public to remember their dads, uncles, brothers, etc. who attend a shed

somewhere in the county on a regular basis. There, these men experience great happiness, getting to personally know new friends, learning new skills, and enjoying being part of the Irish Men’s Shed Association where care and attention and the wellbeing of each and everyone is our absolute goal. “While sheds are in lockdown mode, it’s very important that members keep talking to each other. Unfortunately, some of our members are influenced by what is circulating on social media platforms. Some of this information which is being shared online is causing untold stress and anxiety”. Pat said that while members of Men’s Sheds are obviously worried about the virus, they want to help others too (all Covid-19 guidelines will be followed). “Shed members across Roscommon and Leitrim are willing and able to assist with

checking on the elderly, delivering groceries, making phone calls, checking on animal stock…whatever it takes, we will help. We are also there for each other. The communities in towns and villages have been very good to sheds. Contact your shed committee for further advice”. Mr. Towey had this request to the public. “We’d like to ask the public to leave all coronavirus updates to the HSE, and by doing so clear a pathway on social media so that the real messages and concerns will finally get through”. He assured any shed members who are confused or in need of clarity on anything that “we will be in touch”. He confirmed that Men’s Shed staff have the following suggestions: 1. Set up a WhatsApp group or group text with members (please contact the IMSA office if you require help with this).

Naughten in appeal to An Post Denis Naughten TD has asked An Post to use its mail network across the country to ensure older people have access to food, medicines, newspapers, etc. without having to leave their homes during the Covid-19 crisis. “Through my work as Minister for Communications I was able to protect the 5-day delivery service to every home in Ireland and this service must now be used to ensure that older people and those who are

Update from parish of Roscommon & Kilteevan Fr. Kevin and the priests of the parish wish to sincerely thank everyone for their support and prayers during this time of Covid-19. You can be assured you are remembered in our prayers and Masses. Parish Radio Masses will be broadcast from Roscommon Church on 105.9 FM Monday-Friday, 8 am and 11 am, Saturday at 10 am and 7 pm (Vigil), and Sunday at 10.30 am and 12.15 pm. The church will be open for individual prayer from 12 noon to 5 pm Monday-Saturday and from 2 pm-5 pm on Sundays. The Parish Office is open for telephone calls (090-6626298), texts (0877903324) and emails (roscommonparish3@gmail. com) from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm Monday to Friday. For social distancing purposes, please don’t arrive in person. Parishioners who wish to continue their

weekly parish contributions can do so by placing their envelope in a specially designated box that will be placed in front of the altar in Roscommon Church from 2 pm to 3 pm each day. Alternatively, parishioners can contribute through Electronic Transfer. Bank details are as follows – IBAN: IE02BOFI90542411975671 BIC: BOFIIE2D. Parishioners in the Kilteevan Church area can also deposit their envelopes in Roscommon Church at the times mentioned above. They will then be transferred to Kilteevan at suitable time. Updates on church services, etc. will be posted on the parish facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/roscommonandkilteevanparish/ * Thank you for your support and please keep safe and well.

2. Check in through phone or email with IMSA. The staff are here to provide advice and support. The staff will continue to operate as normal in answering your emails on mailto:info@menssheds.ie and by phone on 01 891 6150. 3. Operate a ‘buddy system’ – We suggest ensuring that everyone in your shed ‘buddies up’ with another member and stays in contact. This will help to ensure that members, including those that are living alone, are not isolated during this difficult time. 4. Ask sheds to identify members who may like to receive a ‘social call’ and ask their permission to exchange name/phone number and explain that their local IMSA Volunteer or IMSA staff member will make a phone call to them on a weekly basis (or more where required).

vulnerable are not forced from their homes to get basic essential items,” stated Deputy Naughten. “I know that many An Post mail staff would be personally willing to assist, and I know too that many local businesses would be willing to work with the company to make sure that deliveries were properly packaged and labelled”. Deputy Naughten added: “I have also asked An Post to look at waiving fees for their current accounts for

those people on social welfare who do not have a bank account so that they can make payments over the phone or online to their local business. “Many local businesses are very willing to accept phone orders and it is important that we all support local business so they can keep their doors open over the coming months when we will all be so dependent upon them,” concluded Denis Naughten.

Bank ‘payment holiday’ welcomed by Feighan Sligo-Leitrim Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has welcomed the announcement that a three-month payment holiday for mortgage holders impacted by the Covid-19 crisis is to be put in place by Irish banks. The news came following a meeting between

Minister Paschal Donohoe and the CEOs of Ireland’s leading banks. Deputy Feighan said: “I am glad to see that common sense has prevailed and that these badly-needed measures have been introduced very quickly. I believe that this will be the first time in Irish history

that banks have agreed an industry-wide payment holiday and I want to commend Minister Paschal Donohoe and the head of the Banking and Payments Federation Brian Hayes for brokering this agreement. “My team and I have been inundated with

requests from a worried public across this constituency since the outbreak of Covid-19 and this mortgage issue has been prominent throughout. I now want to see the same measures introduced for renters and for people living in local authority homes”.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

NewsPeople

COVID-19

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

Update from Roscommon University Hospital

Emergency mental health measures must have time limit – Naughten

Roscommon University Hospital would like to remind the public that all inpatient and day cases procedures remain cancelled at the hospital. Outpatient clinics at the hospital are also currently cancelled, with a very limited number of exceptions. All patients will be contacted by text or telephone 2 to 3 days before their scheduled appointment date. The GP walk-in x-ray service is currently suspended. GPs have access to urgent x-ray services, when deemed necessary. X-rays for injuries (e.g. suspected broken bones – arms and legs) are available via the Injury Unit. The Injury Unit is open from 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days per week. This is a GP or self-referral service for a range of minor injuries including suspected broken bones (arms and legs), sprains and strains, burns, wounds, bites, abscesses and minor chest and head injuries amongst others. Please refer to www.saolta.ie for more details or call 090 6632212. Management of the hospital wishes to thank the public for their cooperation.

Shanagher in reminder to public on Council services Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher would like to inform the public of the following services which are available from Roscommon County Council. Check out www.roscommoncoco.ie and avail of the new service My Online Services. This new portal allows customers to access many services such as – report an issue, library service and motor tax issues. You can also sign up for MapAlerter. This sends you targeted messages from Roscommon County Council. Messages issued by the Council for water service issues, weather warnings, road issues, community notices and planning applications. Click on Sign up for Alerts in the Keep in Touch section at the bottom of the home page. As a response to the Covid-19 pandemic and its effect on businesses in County Roscommon, Local Enterprise Roscommon is offering FREE Remote Mentor Clinics, Trading Online Voucher & Microfinance Ireland Information Seminars and Online Training Courses. Contact the Enterprise office on localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie 090 6626263 6637100.

Roscommon University Hospital would like to remind the public that all inpatient and day cases procedures remain cancelled at the hospital.

Covid-19: Swift action required – Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice says swift and decisive action is required in the interest of the entire country in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak. He said: “It is imperative that everyone follows the advice on tackling this virus. We have to adhere to social/physical distancing guidelines, wash our hands regularly and minimise our contact with elderly or vulnerable people who may have underlying health issues. “Elderly and vulnerable people need to be particularly careful and should take the necessary steps to self-isolate during these uncertain times. “People must restrict their movements; this is not a holiday. All non-essential travel must be restricted. People who have chosen to congregate in parks and such over the last few days need to reconsider their actions moving forward. “It is sickening to see people not adhering to the advice regarding social/physical distancing and if this continues, then more stringent measures will have to be implemented”. Continuing, Deputy Fitzmaurice added: “I want to commend the frontline staff who are doing their utmost to diagnose and treat people with the virus. The doctors, nurses, student nurses and doctors, admin staff, caterers and cleaners in all of our hospitals and medical facilities are heroes. “Other people can also play a significant role in combatting the spread of this virus – by acting responsibly. Everyone, both young and old,

needs to recognise the impact their actions might have on both their own personal health – but also on the health of their loved ones”. He called on the Government to be more proactive. “It is my opinion that we need to take proactive steps to eliminate the threat by reducing non-essential services as much as possible. Each sector needs to be evaluated and any non-essential operations must be halted temporarily. “We also need to limit the need for people to congregate in the country in order to reduce the likelihood of community transmission. This could be implemented for a period of two weeks and would be reviewed thereafter. “Obviously, access to medical services such as hospitals, GP clinics, nursing homes, chemists and primary care centres, etc. would still be available. Factories involved in the production of essential medical equipment, including ventilators, must remain in operation”. Concluding, Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “This is a team effort and it is heartening to see communities pulling together right around this country, from the smallest village to the largest cities. This must continue moving forward and with this spirit, we will overcome this outbreak as quickly as we can. “It is imperative that elderly people who made their contributions to society, are protected. Us, as the younger generation, must show responsibility. Many washed hands will mean lighter work”.

Emergency legislation which makes amendments to mental health legislation should not be in operation for more than 30 days without a further resolution of Dáil Eireann or consent from party leaders, Denis Naughten TD has stated. The Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Bill 2020 seeks to introduce a number of provisions and amendments to the Mental Health Acts to protect the rights of patients and facilitate the ongoing operation of the Mental Health Tribunals through the crisis. “I welcome the measures included in this emergency legislation to support the national response to the COVID-19 crisis such as a temporary wage subsidy, the prevention of rent increases, redundancies and registration of retired health sector staff. However, I have grave reservations regarding the measures relating to the Mental Health Acts and we must ensure that any such powers, if justified in an emergency, are not used beyond this current situation,” stated Denis Naughten. “This is the second week in a row we have seen a proposal to introduce far-reaching powers to detain people against their will. While I’m open to hear the justification for such draconian amendments to deal with the current exceptional threat to human life and public health from the spread of COVID-19, these are powerful legal provisions which must only be used to specifically deal with the current national health crisis and must not be in place for one day longer than is necessary”. Denis Naughten added that he has proposed that the measures in relation to the Mental Health Act will not come into force until the Minister gets prior agreement of all party and group leaders in Dáil Eireann. In addition, he is seeking that the measures will only continue in operation for no more than 30 days without the further consent of all party and group leaders in Dáil Eireann.

Reader’s concern for plight of parents Dear Editor, I want to make you aware of a very serious situation my parents are experiencing. They have had no network/mobile coverage in their home since March 6th. This area is between Ballintubber and Castleplunkett. They have no way of making or receiving contact. I have logged several complaints to their network provider, GoMo and to eir. Every time I am told that the mast in their area is down, this is causing total outage and is being worked on. I have been into an eir store and was told they were waiting for a part from China so that they could fix the mast. My mother recovered from lung cancer last year and has stage 4 CPOD disease. My father has heart disease and diabetes. They are in their mid-70s, highly vulnerable and in self-isolation. They have missed calls from doctors and hospitals and from HSE staff who want to check on providing oxygen for my mother. I am checking on them constantly but it is difficult. This is an unacceptable situation. I cannot get any more news from eir, who own the mast. What can I do? I want to bring this to the attention of the public and other residents in the area. Yours sincerely, Lyn Hagan

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

STAY

CALM STAY

SAFE STAY

STRONG BE

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

GOING OUT

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Ciara McElroy, Rosin Maloney and Lauren Frain.

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BEFORE SOCIAL DISTANCING: Stacey Higgins’ 18th birthday party and Craig Corrigan’s 30th birthday party, Creaton’s Bar, Ballaghaderreen Photos: Michael McCormack

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

‘Help save our tourism jobs’ Plea to local TDs Hotels and guesthouses in Roscommon are seeking the urgent support of local TDs to help save Irish tourism and secure the livelihoods of thousands of people employed across the country. Michael Yates, Chair, Roscommon Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation said: “Safeguarding public health is an absolute priority for us, and this must go hand-in-hand with ensuring

we have a viable economy to return to after the crisis. The health and wellbeing of our people is intertwined with the economy. “People will need livelihoods when this is all over – including the 260,000 people across the country who, up until recently, were employed in tourism and hospitality. This represents 11% of total employment nationally. “It is also important to note that 70% of these jobs are outside of Dublin which highlights the regional contribution of tourism. Over 100,000 have

already been laid off and it is deeply regrettable that many more will follow in the coming days. “Tourism makes a vital economic contribution to our local economy here in Roscommon and, up until last week, it supported 1,100 jobs and generated €46 million in local tourism revenues annually. Within a short number of weeks, we have seen revenues plummet by up to 100% across the sector. Tourism businesses have now closed with thousands of people being laid off on a daily basis across the country.

We must do everything within our power to ensure that these closures are temporary. “The challenges we now face are existential and far greater than anything we went through during the financial crisis. We require extraordinary measures and political leadership right now to ensure these closures and layoffs are temporary. That is why the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has called on the Government to act extremely quickly to ensure that large parts of our economy, including tour-

ism, are not obliterated by the current crisis”.  He said that for those businesses most affected, including those that have closed, local authority rates must be waived until the crisis is over.   “Cash flow in particular is the killer of businesses in crises like this, and we have called on the Government to implement measures that will assist with cash flow now as well as reducing the rates of tourism VAT and employer’s PRSI to zero for the duration of the crisis”. With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

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Ballaghaderreen businessman applauds ‘great’ community spirit Safety measures at Duffy’s Supervalu, Ballaghaderreen.

Kevin Duffy of Duffy’s SuperValu in Ballaghaderreen has hailed the great community spirit that has been in evidence in recent days in response to the challenges presented by Covid-19. Mr. Duffy said that clubs, other groups and individuals in Ballaghaderreen and environs have been very proactive in responding. Their focus has been on protecting the collective health of the community and in practical

terms on ensuring that elderly/vulnerable people in the community are cared for. “There has been a wonderful response…people have been very generous and very quick to volunteer to help. There is great goodwill in the community. It is really important that we look after the elderly and vulnerable – everybody really – and that community response is very evident in Ballaghaderreen”. In relation to his own business, he said

that Duffy’s SuperValu has taken a series of measures to help protect staff and customers during the Covid-19 crisis. These measures include putting in place protective screens at checkouts, social distancing guidelines, hand sanitisers, etc. Mr. Duffy said staff at Duffy’s have “gone beyond the call of duty”. He thanked his staff and customers for their support and cooperation.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

FarmingPeople

Teagasc makes Covid-19 arrangements

Tom Kelleher is Teagasc Regional Manager for Roscommon and Longford < TOM KELLEHER

Teagasc advisory offices remain open but only for urgent pre-arranged appointments. All Teagasc Basic Payment, BEEP, Carbon Navigator appointments

will now be processed over the phone rather than at the office. Teagasc staff will contact farmer clients in the coming weeks. Each Teagasc location will set up one bio-secure office for essential one-to-one consultations. This will involve a double desk with a clear Perspex divider and a computer with two screens. Clients will be asked to wait in their cars to prevent contact in waiting areas and where appropriate clients may also have to sign forms in the office parking area. All appointments to get derogation plans completed for farmers will also be processed over the phone. Prior to application, submission clients will be asked to signify agreement to the application through email or text. Teagasc staff will contact clients to make arrangements. Farm visits by Teagasc advisors are taking place at the client’s request and only for urgent issues. Social distancing and hygiene protocols will be adhered to. The Teagasc agriculture and horticulture colleges and education centres are closed to students in line with the government decision that schools and third level colleges close until March 29th. Teagasc education staff, where practical, are working remotely. In the event that the closure of all schools and colleges is prolonged, Teagasc is arranging that guidance for self-study of theory elements of courses will be communicated through online channels. All Teagasc events have been postponed until further notice. This includes farm walks, conferences, and seminars. The transfer of information and knowledge to farmers and students will be through regular digital communication methods. Teagasc urges all farmers to take care, look after themselves and their families during the difficult period ahead. If you have any farming issues you need resolved please do not hesitate to contact us in Roscommon (090-6626166), Castlerea (0949620160) and Longford (043-3341021). Follow Teagasc on social media for updates.

Roscommon People MART WATCH Manager’s report… Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart “At our sale of weanlings & suckler cows (Tuesday, March 24th), there was a large entry of stock on offer at this weekly sale. There was a strong demand for bulls, with a good clearance of lots. Prices for bulls ranged from €2.46 per kilo up to €3.61 per kilo. “There was a brisk trade for weanling heifers with lots fetching from an average of €2.51 per kilo up to €3.29 per kilo. Springers made up to €1,200, while cows with calves at foot made from €1,200 up to €1,400. There was a good number of buyers in attendance, with farmers more active. Exporters and agents were also present. Weanling heifers made from an average of €2.51 up to €3.29 per kilo”.

Roscommon Mart sample prices Sample prices Char X 410 kgs €1130 - €2.75 per kilo, Lim X 410 kgs €2.68 per kilo, Char X 355 kgs €1045-€2.94 per kilo, Char X 345 kgs €1030 - €2.98 per kilo, Lim 400 kgs €1020 - €2.55 per kilo, Char X 320 kgs €935 - €2.92 per kilo, Lim X 315 kgs €960 - €3.01 per kilo, Char X 320 kgs €970 - €3.03 per kilo, 2 Char X 297 kgs €890 - €2.99 per kilo, 2 Char X 242 kgs €790 - €3.25 per kilo, Char X 240 kgs €790 - €3.29 per kilo. Weanling bulls made from an average of €2.46 per kilo up to €3.61 per kilo. Sample prices Lim X 465 kgs €1215 - €2.61 per kilo, Char X 410 kgs €2.92 per kilo, Lim X 400 kgs €1170 - €2.92 per kilo, 2 Char X 355 kgs €1150- €3.23 per kilo, Lim X 420 kgs €1125 - €2.67 per kilo, Char X 380 kgs €1080 - €2.84 per kilo, 3 Char X 381 kgs €1000 – €2.62 per kilo, 2 Lim X 367 kgs €980- €2.66 per kilo, Lim X 320 kgs €970- €3.03 per kilo, Char X 305 kgs €950 - €3.11 per kilo, AAX 340 kgs €845 - €2.47 per kilo. Springers made up to €1,200. Cows with calves at foot made from €1,200 up to €1,400. Cattle prices (Friday, March 20th)

Maura: “There were good numbers on offer at last Friday’s sale with prices holding firm. Bullocks averaged from €2.32 per kilo up to €3.39 per kilo. Heifer prices ranged from €2.08 per kilo up to €2.60 per kilo. The number of dry cows were smaller this week with lots fetching from €1.49 per kilo up to €1.70 per kilo. Farmers and agents were very active this week resulting in a good clearance of lots. Dry cows made €750 up to €1,275 per lot”. Sample prices AAX 750 kgs €1275, HEX 745 kgs €1,110, Simm X 725 kgs €1,100, Sim 635 kgs €1,050, BBX 710 kgs €990, Lim X 610 kgs €950, Fr 630 kgs €940, Lim X 570 kgs €860. Heifers made from an average of €2.08 up to €2.60 per kilo. Lim X 565 kgs €1,130, Char X 540 kgs €1050, Lim X 470 kgs €1,000, Lim X 345 €890. Char X 340 kgs €885. Lim X 430 kgs €950. Bullocks made from an average of €2.32 up to €3.39 per kilo. Sample prices Char X 775 kgs €1,700, Lim X 725 kgs €1,680, 2 Char X 567 kgs €1,620, 3 Char X 635 kgs €1,570, 3 Lim X 693

Pictured is the first prize winner in the Heifer Weanling class at Roscommon Mart recently. Weighing 340kgs, this heifer sold for €1,820.

Castlerea Mart sample prices Heifers Lmx 410kgs €1055 Ch 370kgs €1000 Six 405kgs €990 Ch 480kgs €1240 Ch 495kgs €1195 Ch 735kgs €1530 Lm 660kgs €1435 Lm 595kgs €1325. Dry cows Lmx 475kgs €920 Lm 750kgs €1430 Lm 660kgs €1090 Lm 620kgs €1000 AA 775kgs €1280 Lm 695kgs €1265. Cows with calves at foot made from €1080 to €1450. Springers made from €800 to €1980 per head. Calves/runners Dairy cross calves made from €5 to €70

while Hereford and Angus Cross calves made from €130 to €235 with continentals making up to €350. Runners made from €350 to €700 per head. Weanling bulls Ch 295kgs €855 Lm 285kg €815 Ch 250kgs €720 Ch 420kgs €1135. Ch 395kgs €1075 Ch 400kgs €1000 Lm 350kgs €1000. Weanling heifers Lm 275kgs €865 Ch 295kgs €1015 AA 295kgs €765 Ch 370kgs €1030 Ch 340kgs €840 Ch 305kgs €780.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

FarmingPeople

PropertyPeople

(Proudly serving farmers for over 60 years) Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

That due to the Governments recent stringent measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. Roscommon Mart will be closed with immediate effect until further notice. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We thank you for your co-operation and we look forward to your continued support when we open again. A special word of thanks to our dedicated staff members for their invaluable assistance with the implementation of the coronavirus restrictions over the past number of weeks. Your help and support is greatly appreciated.

Emlaghkeadue Lodge, Castlecoote.

Stay Safe ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

See link on our Facebook page or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Find us on facebook

Unique opportunity now with REA Seamus Carthy

report… Manager’s an, Brendan Eg art Castlerea M

Thursday (with e on offer lastday’s sale). The ttl ca 0 65 e er “There w transferred onto Mon y with rethe bullocks of lots got sold on the da heifers revast majority ace due to Covid-19. The last week. strictions in pl ge in prices or trade from ore selecported no channling rings buyers were mthe quality “In the wea riance in price between reported k tive with a vaainer types. Breeding stocs and suck pl w e co th y d dr an e lots trade while th a very good ed good clearances also. BE MINDrt calves repo ONG, BE KIND AND DS”. “STAY STR HBOURS AND FRIEN FUL OF NEIG

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price GUARANTEED Daily collection

A stunning period family home

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to bring to the market Emlaghkeadue Lodge, a stunning four-bedroomed period family home with fine traditional stone outbuildings set on a mature 1.55 acre landscaped site. Majestically set amid beautiful gardens and woodlands, the property is encircled with rich history including beautiful walled gardens, with a central courtyard separating this most select house from the very fine traditional stone outbuildings. Located on the outskirts of the award-winning village of Castlecoote and formerly the hunting lodge to Castlecoote House, the said property also benefits from complete refurbishment offering the character and traditions of the past whilst also offering a modern family home presented to the highest specification both internally and externally. Internally, the property comprises of a large feature hallway, open plan kitchen & dining room, utility, a feature double height living room, sitting room, cloakroom and shower room at ground floor with four bedrooms (one ensuite with family bathroom), mezzanine and shower room at first floor. Enquiries are now invited for this most select property. For more information, contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town today on 090 66 30001 or info@reacarthy.ie.

Located on the outskirts of the award-winning village of Castlecoote and formerly the hunting lodge to Castlecoote House.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

PropertyPeople

Four-bedroomed dormer home at Lecarrow New to the market approximately 1.5 km from Lecarrow Village is this very attractive three/fourbedroomed dormer bungalow which is in excellent condition. It’s on the books of Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers (Athleague). There are outstanding views of Lough Ree on the River Shannon from all parts of this family home. Lake View House, Knockskehan is a must for viewing. The residence is in excellent condition internally and boasts spacious living accommodation. There are two large living rooms on the ground floor, the second having potential for a fourth bedroom. The large kitchen/dining area is open plan, with solid wood feature kitchen and slate tiled flooring. There is a ‘Stanley’ oil range recessed into the kitchen area. Double doors to rear patio area which has a housed jacuzzi bath overlooking the lake. There is a large utility room, fully plumbed for washing machine and dryer, with a guest WC off. On the first floor there are three double bedrooms, master ensuite, each with solid wood flooring. The main bathroom is beautifully designed and tiled with bath, toilet, shower with enclosure and sink. The layout upstairs is cleverly designed with under-roof walk-in storage

No. 37, Glenview, located on the Galway Road on the outskirts of Roscommon Town.

Four-bedroomed residence at Glenview, Roscommon

cupboards and great use of space and light. Externally, this property is finished to a high standard. Traditional stone wall to the front, with cast-iron gates at entrance. Large laid lawns to front and rear, driveway kerbed and tarmacadamed. The detached garage is c. 28’5” x 16’ with roller door to the front and side entrance door. The attic

is partly floored with additional storage space. Services included oil-fired central heating, mains water, septic tank. Contact the office for further information and to arrange an appointment on 090666 3700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie. Viewings are available of properties and are guided by ongoing national and local guidelines.

PSRA Licence: 001350

For sale with Ivan Connaughton Auctioneers is No. 37, Glenview, located on the Galway Road on the outskirts of Roscommon Town. It’s within walking distance of all transport, primary and secondary schools and all amenities on offer in the county town. This is a fourbedroomed semi-detached residence. The layout internally is spacious, with the property boasting four bedrooms and three bathrooms. There is a decent-sized garden to the rear of the property which is fully fenced off and the driveway which is tarmacadamed and kerbed extends to the side of the house with ample parking for 2 to 3 cars. Accommodation includes: Reception hallway with guest wc off, sitting room with open fire and double doors into

large open plan kitchen/dining room, utility room with access to back garden, four bedrooms in all (large master ensuite) and main bathroom. This property is ideally suited as either a family home enabling first-time purchasers to get on the property ladder at an affordable price or indeed as an investment property due to its location and demand for properties of this type. Glenview is a well maintained estate with a good mix of both owner-occupier and investment properties. Contact the office for further information and to arrange an appointment on 090666 3700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers.ie. Viewings are available of properties and are guided by ongoing national and local guidelines.

PROPERTY SALES LETTINGS VALUATIONS l

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE

Four Bed Bungalow on c. 0.55 Acres

KILLIAN, NEWBRIDGE, CO. GALWAY H53 FV30

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE

Commercial Unit Comprising c. 2, 537 sq. ft.

LISROYNE, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

LANDS TO LET/ LEASE Note: All lands Sheep & Cattle Only

c.83.5 Acres @ Corramore, Athleague Until 1st February 2021, No Entitlements & No Water Charges

c.70 Acres in Two Lots @ Ardmullen, Curraghboy Short or Long Term, No Entitlements

c.37 Acres @ Aghagower, Castlecoote

5-year Term with Entitlements & No Water Charges Option to Lease c.30 Acres Adjoining with No Entitlements

c.16.8 Acres @ Aghagower, Castlecoote Until 1st March 2021 with Entitlements & No Water Charges

c.21.67 Acres @ Ballyglass, Castlerea Until 1st March 2021 with Entitlements

• Very attractive residence in pristine condition with outbuildings • Newly re-decorated with complete new & modern kitchen installed • New ‘Grant Vortex’ oil fired central heating boiler installed • Traditional stone wall to front with post & rail fencing & hedging to other boundaries • Located approx. 2 km outside the Village of Newbridge • Turn-key property ready to move into • Viewing highly recommended

• Prime Commercial Unit comprising c. 1,517 sq. ft. on ground floor & c. 1,020 sq. ft. on first floor mezzanine • Located just off Main Street & accessible from both Elphin & Church Street • Roller door to front with rear & front door access • Private yard with large area to front • Holds huge potential for many different business usages given its size and location on the main Dublin/Western route • Viewing strictly by appointment

c.11.24 Acres @ Lissalway, Castlerea Until 1st March 2021 with Entitlements

Enquiries on All Parcels to 090-6663700

FARM ENTITLEMENTS We are agents for the Sale & Lease of Entitlements Contact Ivan today on 090-6663700 for further information

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

PropertyPeople

Landmark property in Roscommon ‘Abbey House’ is a landmark commercial/residential property centrally set within the sought after location of Abbey Street, Roscommon Town, brought to the market by REA Seamus Carthy. The subject property is set on a 0.13 acres site benefiting from a private garden/yard to the rear and an outbuilding. Market interest will dictate the next chapter in this property’s history with obvious investment potential given its commercial/ residential mix whilst also offering a tempting proposition to return the property to its former residential glory as a family home. We now invite all offers for this select property. For more information on the subject property contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town, on 090 66 30001 or info@ reacarthy.ie.

LANDS TO LET 30 acres of land at Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon Sheep only. For 4 months from the 1st of April 2020

IMMEDIATE LAND REQUIREMENT To purchase 30 acres of land in Roscommon Town We have buyers seeking land in Roscommon Town. Reply in confidence to auctioneer REA Seamus Carthy 090 66 30001 or 086 8035538.

IMMEDIATE HOUSE REQUIREMENT IN ROSCOMMON TOWN Quality 4 bed detached family home in Roscommon Town required. Price range up to €400,000. Reply in confidence to auctioneer REA Seamus Carthy 090 66 30001 or 086 8035538.

FOR SALE DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Substantial 4 Bedroom Family Home with Detached Garage set on a generous site area of 0.69 Acres in the sought after residential location of Drum Townland, convenient to Athlone and all its amenities. Immediate enquiries now invited for this select property. Guide Price: €220,000

FOR SALE 5 STATION VIEW, BALLAGHADEREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45 T683

3-bed mid terrace two storey residence situated within walking distance to all amenities in Ballaghaderreen Town and offering excellent value for money. Will be of interest to owner occupiers and also investors. Enquiries now invited. Guide Price: €60,000

FOR SALE 30 THE MAPLES, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON, F42 DD25

Quality 4 bedroom detached Two Storey home set on the outskirts of Strokestown within walking distance to all amenities. The property is presented in excellent condition both internally and externally. Enquiries now invited. Guide Price: €199,000

ROSCOMMON TOWN T: 090 66 30001 • W: www.reacarthy.ie PSRA Licence No. 002782

Earley’s to sell approx. 107 acres of lands via online auction this Friday John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is reminding clients that the online auction for approx. 107 acres of prime lands located at Kilcourcey, Cartroncor and Tully, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford takes place this Friday from 12 noon to 1 pm. Interested parties are advised to log on to www.propertypartnersonlineauctions.ie to register and bid. A booking deposit is to be paid in advance to the auctioneers and it is advised to contact them well in advance to organise same directly.

Prime Strokestown lands available at Earley’s David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley is this week offering new to the market prime lands and boglands set out in a number of lots and containing approx. 34.87 acres in total located at Cloonfree and Drinagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. They are located close to Strokestown on the main N5 western route and contain some excellent quality lands, lands of a lesser quality and boglands. The said lands are comprised in folios RN23697 & RN30892F. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie.

David’s sale of the week David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of a most attractive four-bedroomed bungalow residence located at Cloonageeragh, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon for a “very satisfactory price”. David commented: “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) or John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

All legal details are available online in advance of the auction and for further queries please contact John Earley on 086 2551380. John commented: “This is a prime opportunity to acquire a quality and substantial farm which is presently in permanent pasture located close to Edgeworthstown”. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley (FIPAV), Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, mobile 086 2551380 email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

PROPERTY PARTNERS

PRSA No. 001481

EARLEY

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION ON FRIDAY 27TH MARCH 2020 FROM 12- 1PM.

PRIME LANDS CONTAINING APPROX. 107

ACRES LOCATED AT

KILCOURCEY, CARTRONCOR & TULLY, EDGEWORTHSTOWN, CO. LONGFORD. (comprised in folios LD11307 & LD18661F). A substantial holding of agricultural farmlands offering approx. 107 acres located in a select farming district. The said lands are set out in one block and command good road frontage. Generally, the said lands are made up of solid agricultural grounds. Servicing the land is a cattle crush and pen located at the road front and an internal roadway. The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries for this prime farm of lands.

Reserve: €575,000

To register, bid and view legal documents, log onto www.propertypartnersonlineauctions.ie

Legal: Mr Billy Brandon, Messers Patrick J Neilan & Co, Church St, Roscommon. 090 66 26245. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS FOR LEASE

Approx. 50 acres with the benefit of entitlements and greening. Kilrooskey area. From now until the 31st December 2020. Sheep only November and December.

STONE COURT, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie – www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 – Fax: (090) 6625405

ipav

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ROOM 14, 1ST FLOOR ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON EIR CODE: F42YT51 Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Wednesday 1pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Grace O’Reilly B.Sc. Psych., B.Comm., H.Dip. in Ed., MBPS & PSI Registered Occupational Psychometrician Assistance with: • Interview Preparation • CAO & UCAS Course Application • Subject & Course Choice • Study Skills / Exam Preparation

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

Email: grace@finbaroreilly.ie Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly

Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

CHIROPODIST

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • 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 CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

CHIROPODIST 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

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

CHIROPODIST

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

Department of Health Approved

085 2514394

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

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

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424

Lic. Ac.

Galway Road, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626023

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

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

• Sprayers tested on owners premises • Test report & D.A.F.M. stickers provided. • Small stock parts fitted on site (if necessary) Dept. of Agriculture regulations. From 2020 all sprayes are required to be tested every 3 years Contact: Thomas Neilan on 087 2395171 or 090 6663069 e-mail: thomasneilan4@gmail.com D.A.F.M. Approved

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

Reg No: EL000083

Paul McStay

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

FARRIER < QUALIFIED FARRIER AVAILABLE: 25 years experience, fast and reliable service. Tel: 086 8770711

FENCING/GATES

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD For all your fencing needs. Glas Fencing Grant Fencing Post Rail

l l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

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

ACUPUNCTURE Michael Lennon

DC Computer Services

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

CHIROPODIST Traditional Chinese Medicine

FARMING

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233

COMPUTERS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

FARMING < A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : 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 < FOR SALE: Selection of calves for sale. Delivery available. Tel: 086 8713864 < FOR SALE: Aberdeen Angus calves for sale. Bulls and Heifers, farmers stock. Tel: 086 2167132 < TRACTOR ENGINES REBUILDING: All repairs carried out, Castlerea area. Tel: 087 3631263 < ROUND BALES OF HAY AND SILAGE for sale. Can be delivered locally. Tel: 086 3776948. < FOR SALE Ewe lambs scanned in lamb to Charolais Ram. Tel: 071 9639232. < SILAGE for sale. Tel: 087 2320483. < FOR SALE: Round bales of well saved hay for sale in Roscommon town. Rig Padraig on 087 2965494

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

087 2721193 GARDENING < GARDENING SERVICE: Overgrown shrubs and hedges, cut back and mulched. Contact 086 2437376

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

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 GATELY GARDENING

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

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

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

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

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

HOLISTIC JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy • Dry needling • Thai Massage Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

FOR ALL YOUR PAINTING & DECORATING NEEDS Internal & External Powerwashing, window, gutters cleaning etc. And all about the home and garden maintainance QUALITY PROMPT WORK GUARANTEED.

Contact Seamus Donoghue

086 8368031

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

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

< WANTED TO RENT: Dry secure storage space, shed or garage required for Camper Van must have 10ft high opening, Roscommon area. Phone: 087 6538538 < ROOM/APARTMENT TO LET on Athlone Road Roscommon town. Phone 087 8048853 for details.

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Colic • Eczema • Constipation • Migraine • Back Problems • Stress • Infertility • Insomnia • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Pain • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Emotional Disorders - Fertility Reflexology - Ante Natal Reflexology - Baby Reflexology - Cancer Care Reflexology - Special Needs Reflexology

Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

PEAT BEDDING

083 8838022 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

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

086 2721812

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Minibus hire.

PHONE:

087 2727888

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible Call car direct

(086) 2714879

(All areas)

Tom Kilduff Cabs Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

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

086 2437376

MARQUEE HIRE Manor Marquee Hire Now taking bookings for 2020

Selection of marquees available for any occasion; • Parties • Weddings • Communions/Confirmations • Corporate/Charity Events • Agricultural Shows • Special Occasions • Funerals We also have a selection of tables & chairs, bar facilities and stages. For any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us. Tel: 087 2829226 Email:

manormarquees@ gmail.com

WINDOW CLEANING < WINDOW CLEANING: Competitive rates. All areas covered. Also gutters/ fascias. Contact John: 087 2291931

USEFUL SERVICES

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

REMOTE Secretarial Services HR Selection and Recruitment, Policy and Procedure drafting and Commercial Debt Collection. Day and hourly rates available. Virtual PA Ltd Sue McMillan

087 7957190 www.virtualpa.ie

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

Every office needs an angel at some time

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

< SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329

< ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: 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.

PLANNINGS

Morris Lohan

Consulting Engineers Castle Street, Roscommon Phone: 090 66 27950 • HOUSE/EXTENSION DESIGN • PLANNING APPLICATIONS • ASSIGNED DESIGN & CERTIFIER ‘New Building Regs’ • BER RATINGS ‘Domestic & Commercial’ • STRUCTURAL & CONDITION SURVEYS • FIRE DESIGN CERTIFICATES

www.morrislohan.ie

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, Bernard & Rose Casey are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct extension and alternations to existing dwelling House along with upgrading treatment system, percolation area, and all ancillary site works at Boleysillagh, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon F45 A078 This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

Signed: James Lohan Consulting Engineer Ltd. 22 Castle View Terrace, Castle Street, Roscommon. M:087 8228529 ,M 087 9595520 T:0906627950, Email: jlohan@ morrislohan.ie -aaron@ morrislohan.ie www.morrislohan.ie -Architectural Design - 3D Modelling -New Build & Extensions-

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Classifieds PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Deeney Engineering and Planning Services, are applying to Roscommon County Council, on behalf of Una Keegan, for Retention Planning Permission to retain, as constructed: 1. elevation changes to sides of existing house from that previously granted under PD/98/475 2. Revised eastern boundary to that previously granted under PD/98/475 3. Attic conversion. 4. 3No existing out-buildings on site at Drumnalassan TD, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

Signed: Deeney Engineering and Planning Services, Tel 086 2503109

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mary O’Reilly, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for Retention permission for domestic garage and fuel storage shed constructed on site and all associated site works at Cornageeha, Brideswell, Co. Roscommon. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited, Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 086 8551835 ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, FERN Architectural Studio, intend to apply for permission on behalf of Maureen Devaney and Shane O’Connor, for development at this site: Ardkeenagh Townland, Tulsk, Co. Rosommon. the dwelling including kitchen, dining and living areas and a central entrance hall including the relocated front door. Minor amendments to the existing house layout and elevational amendments to front and rear, relocation of existing bundary and ancillary site works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

Signed: Enda Fallon, FERN Architectural Studio, Roscommon. Tel. 089 4439458; info@fern.ie; www.fern.ie

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

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brendan Farrell, intend to apply for Permission for revised house plans from that previously granted under planning ref: PD/18/233 along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works. At: Corraun Td, Whitehall, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965 www.mbeprojects.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, P.J. & Mary McDermott, intend to apply for Permission for (a) the change of use of existing commercial premises to retail and office/storage (b) internal renovations & elevational changes (c) building signage on front elevation (d) along with connections to all site services and all other associated site works. At: Ballypheasan Td, Main Street, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Murtagh Engineering Chartered Consulting Engineers, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon. Ph: (086) 3490965. www. mbeprojects.com

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, ARCHENGTECH CONSULTING LTD, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of JOHN AND BRIDIE MATTHEWS, for Planning Permission for AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOULSY GRANTED PLANNING APPLICATION REF. NO. 13/403 with the works to be carried out as follows: 1. RELOCATE THE GARAGE AT THE REAR OF THE DWELLING TO BE INCORPORATED INTO THE RETAINING WALL 2. SIGNIFIGANT CHANGES TO THE GARAGE DESIGN AND LAYOUT FROM THE ORIGINAL PLANNING APPLICATION REF 13/403 3. REPLACE PREVIOUS PROPOSED RETAINING STRUCTURE (GABIAN BASKETS) WITH NEW RETAINING CONCRETE WALL WITH STONE CLADDING 4. AMENDMENTS TO THE FRONT ELEVATION & ROOF GABLE OF THE DWELLING AND ALL ITS ASSOCIATED SITE WORKS at No 2 CUILMORE COVE, COOTEHALL, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: ArchEngTech Consulting Ltd, Bawn Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone: 071 9634729

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Simon Coyle for Planning permission for the construction of 4 detached two storey dwelling houses complete with the installation of 4 separate waste water treatment systems/polishing filters, for the refurbishment of existing derelict buildings on sites 1 and 2 for domestic use, for the provision of storm water attenuation/ connection to existing storm water drainage system, for the provision of a compensatory flood water storage area, for the provision of a public path fronting the site along the R357 road, for the provision of a refuse collection storage area, for the creation of a new entrance onto the public road, for the connections to the existing public utilities and all necessary ancillary siteworks at Carricknagat, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd, Registered Surveyors, Chartered Construction Managers, Building Consultants.(090) 6623417, mob.086-8546035.

The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its Public Opening Hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Appointments

FAMILYNOTICES

Ballinagare Health & Leisure Centre Ltd invites applications for Full-Time Permanent Position

LEISURE CENTRE MANAGER

• Individuals will be required to have qualifications and preferably experience in the following; • You must hold at minimum requirement, a recognised Gym Instructor Qualification with experience in the Health & Fitness industry. A valid First Aid and AED Certificate is required. • The Manager is required to provide fitness classes, personal training and coach children’s activities. • The Manager will be responsible for Sales and Marketing of the facility .The manager is accountable for the overall income and expenditure of the centre, providing financial reports to the board of directors. • The Manager is responsible for the Health & Safety of staff and members of the facility. • This position is funded under the CSP program of Pobal, individuals will be required to become very familiar with their policies and procedures to ensure the facility is under full compliance. APPLICATIONS TO: Email: ballinagarehealthcentre@gmail.com CLOSING DATE: 27th March 2020

Evergreen Fields are currently looking to employ an experienced full-time

ARCTIC DRIVER

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT QUIGLEY: 087 7799076 PAUL O’CONNOR: 086 6052649

• Headstones • Kerbed Memorials • Grave Site Care • Headstone Cleaning • Monument Levelling • Gravestone Repair

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

Mobile: 087 2365453 Landline: 071 9638739 email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

All candidates must have • Category CE licence • Full CPC card • Safe Pass This position may suit drivers the Roscommon, Westmeath, Galway, Sligo and Mayo area. Top rates paid. If you think this job would suit you then contact 087 7206947

CARS FOR SALE

PERSON WANTED

WE BUY ALL TYPES OF CARS

PERSON WANTED

VANS, JEEPS

to repair exisiting electric fence around farm

& OLD SCRAP CARS Wanted - Toyota - Opels - Fords Mercedes We can provide you with end of life certs.

Tel: 089 2394675

Tel: 087 4162251 Kind reliable childminder required to look after two children

Kind reliable childminder required to look after two children, 3.5 years and 10 months, either in own home or children’s home, Roscommon Town. 3-4 days per week. Tel. 087 9815205.

(Dromod) In conjunction with Cox’s Funeral Directors (Rooskey) Serving the people of Dromod, Rooskey and surrounding areas for the past 35 years Full range of coffins, caskets etc. in stock, together with our personally owned fleet of funeral vehicles

For further information contact

086-2561023/087-2318176 or 085-8643968

Visit our website www.mcgowanfuneraldirectors.ie Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES FEENEY Tommie

MULRY Michael

Ballyglass, Ballymacurley, Co. Roscommon (24th Anniversary)

Rosario, The Walk Roscommon. (8th Anniversary) Who died on 23rd March 2012. R.I.P.

Treasured memories of a loving husband, dad and grandad.

In loving memory of Tommie Feeney who died on 31st March, 1996 R.I.P.

You are in our hearts And that’s where you’ll always be. I know Heaven called you But I wish you could have stayed. At least the memories, We have of you They will never fade.

Sadly missed by his wife May, daughters Claire and Patricia, sons Declan and Alan, sons-in-law, daughterin-law and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be offered at a later date.

SWEENEY Michael Francis (Todd)

The bonds of Love know no bounds.

Remembered with love Eileen and family. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday, 18th April at 10am.

GAVIN Catherine 12 Thornfield Drive, Lisnamult, Roscommon (12th Anniversary) Who died on 25th of March 2008

Lanesborough Road, and late of Corrigeen, Roscommon. (14th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Michael late of Lanesborough Road and Corrigeen who passed away on the 29th March 2006. R.I.P. Each of us in our own way, Have special thoughts of you today Will those who think of him A little prayer to Jesus say.

Remembered today and always by his wife Angela, sons Peárse, Michael and Emmet daughter Elizabeth, son-in-law Raymond and grandchildren.

May the winds of love blow softly, And whisper for you to hear, That we still love and miss you As it dawns another year.

Always loved and remembered by her husband Martin, children Martin, Marie, Anne, son-in-law Paul and grandchildren.

SOMERS John Joe Corroy, Knockcroghery (20th Anniversary)

WALSH Mick Moher, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon (26th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather who died on the 30th March 1994

McCONN Tereasa (Tess)

O’CONNOR Padraig

Abbeygrey, Ballygar, Co. Galway Who died on 23rd March 2019

Mountcashel, Co. Roscommon

When tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, That an Angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand. The Angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above, And that I’d have to leave behind, All those I dearly love. But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home, For God looked down, smiled at me and told me “Welcome Home.” So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, For every time you think of me I’m right there in your heart.

The family of the late Tereasa McConn wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on the occasion of our sad loss. We offer our heartfelt gratitude to our extended family, friends and neighbours for their kindness and support at the time of Mam’s passing and those who travelled long distances to be with us. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Martin Daly and staff of Ballygar Medical Centre for all he did for Mam. To Declan and staff of the Oakwood Nursing Home for all the wonderful care given to Mam, we will be forever grateful to you. Our sincere thanks to Fr. Breslin, Fr. Louie Lohan, Fr. Tommie Cummins, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Deacon Willie Gacquin for celebrating a beautiful Funeral Mass. To the Mass servers, thank you. A special thank you to David and Bernie Moran Funeral Directors, Ballygar for their professional guidance’s and compassionate handling of the Funeral arrangements. To Bernie for the beautiful music in the Church. Thank you to the grave diggers for preparing Mam’s final resting place. To Moran’s for the refreshments after the Removal and to Fallon’s for a beautiful meal provided after the Funeral Mass, thank you. Thanks to everyone who sent sympathy cards and attended the Reposing and Funeral.

Forever loved and missed more every day by your loving wife Mary. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure, You are loved beyond words, And missed beyond measure.

Forever loved and missed more every day by your sons Micheal and Seamus, daughters Martina and Georgina. Declan, Annette, Marian and grandchildren.

LARKIN Anthony St. John’s, Lecarrow. (10th Anniversary)

(1st Anniversary)

Will those who think of him today. A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered by his family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church Knockcroghery on Friday, 27th March at 7pm.

Out of our lives you may be gone, But in our hearts you will always belong.

Sadly missed by his family.

Ballymacurley North, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

God saw you getting tired And a cure was not to be So he put His arms around you And whispered “Come to me.” With tearful eyes we watched you As you slowly slipped away And though we loved you dearly We couldn’t make you stay. Your golden heart stopped beating Your tired hands put to rest God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.

Loved and remembered by his sisters Colette and Eithne, family and friends. Masses offered.

As it would not be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope that this acknowledgement will serve as an expression of our most sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Masses offered.

In loving memory of our dear Mother (Rose) who died on the 27th March 2019. R.I.P. Our hearts are full of memories With pride we speak your name. Though life goes on without you. It will never be the same. Those special days will not return, When we were all together. But the love you placed within our hearts Will stay with us forever.

Lovingly remembered, forever in our hearts and prayers and sadly missed by your sons and daughters and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 29th March at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish, Roscommon.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ Quietly today your memory is kept, No need for words, we will never forget. No longer in our lives to share. But in our hearts you are always there. Never selfish, always kind, what memories you left behind.

Sadly missed by your sons, daughters, daughter-in-law’s and son’s-in-law’s. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ We hold on to our memories, the one that are so dear, To try and keep you close now that you are not here. You were called, it was your time. But it is so true, you, have left a legacy. There was no one like you. You were very special and we just want to say, We feel lost in many ways, beacause you are not here today. But we will not forget you, and we have been blessed To have you for our Granny, because you were the best.

With love from your grandchildren and great-grandchildren. May she Rest In Peace.

In loving memory of Anthony who died on 31st March 2010

(1st Anniversary)

BEIRNE Rose Ann

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. M.B. 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.B. 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.B. PRAYER TO ST ROCK – Protection from contagious diseases O, Most Merciful God, who by an Angel, promises to St Rock that whoever evokes his name would be preserved from all pestilence and contagious diseases. Grant that through his intercession we may be preserved from all dangers both soul and body, through Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen RF

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

Dooley Chimney Repairs • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

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

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

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

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

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 Block 12, Galway H91 P5k5 Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

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

Tel: 090

6621220

LOCKSMITH

Chris’s Locksmith Service Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Window And Door repairs • 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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

LIFE COACH

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.

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

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

CLEANING

S tephen H oare

• 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

Daily collection

RECYCLING

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures 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 l

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Call John 087 610 8499

EDUCATION COACHING: * HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT COURSE/MAKE A BETTER MORE INFORMED DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

FARMING

Full replacement service provided and all work carried out to a high quality finish

Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

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!)

08383

Supply and fit uPVC Doors and Windows ONLY TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED Composite Doors, French Doors, Patio Doors in a wide range of styles and colours Also various styles and colours of uPVC Windows

Domestic & Commercial

CAREER COACHING: * CV ADVICE AND TAILORING TO JOB SPECS * COMPETENCY BASED APPLICATION FORMS (inc. public sector) * INTERVIEW MASTERING (inc. competency-based)

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

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Chasing / Core Drilling Service

PHONE: 086 8229606

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

DRILLING SERVICE

CAROLINE BURKE COACHING

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

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Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses

the last but crashed out under Eoin Walsh costing Elliott the trainers title in another blow to some Irish punters as it was won by WP Mullins. In the Champion Bumper another 1, 2, 3 for the Irish but it was WP Mullins’ outsider Ferny Hollow and Paul Townend, a drifter from 7/1 to 11/1 getting up with a late run to beat stablemate and well backed favourite and an Irish banker Appreciate It under son Patrick Mullins. Elliott’s Queens Brook with Jamie Codd in the plate filling the minor place.

This weekend’s action:

Hot on the heels of the news that point to point racing was going on the back burner last Tuesday morning came the news that evening that main stream racing was being suspended until at least April 19th, which includes the Fairyhouse Irish Grand National meeting over the Easter weekend. Let us hope that the IRHB can reschedule this meeting as it will be a big loss to the industry.

Racing News Tiger Roll was among the 97 entries in the Irish Grand National on 13th April. Our top 2 Irish trainers were responsible for over 40% of the entries with Elliott 24 and Mullins 17. Top weight, 11-10, was Elliott’s Delta Work, dual Grade 1 winner this season. Jessica Harrington’s Magic Of Light, runner-up to Tiger Roll at Aintree last year, was also in the race. Joint ante-post favourites were Elliott’s Milan Native and Ted Walsh’s Any Second Now, winners of the 2020 and 2019 Kim Muir at Cheltenham. There were 17 entries from Britain. Let us hope that the race will eventually take place.

General News

The first and last turf flat meeting, for the time being, took place at Naas last Tuesday. The last national hunt meeting was at Powerstown Park in Clonmel on Wednesday.

by Tom Red

While the Irish won the bragging rights again this year the above show that the win may not have been reflected in the punters pocket. There were 27 races and only 9 winning favourites which to an even stake would have almost broken even. Jamie Moore after being unseated by Goshen

A meeting of the Board of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) yesterday morning to assess the implications of Tuesday’s changed Government advice around Covid-19 and the suspension of all horse racing fixtures until April 19 at the earliest. On Tuesday, the HSE began preparations to use Cork Racecourse in Mallow as a much-needed testing centre for the virus and it should be operational from today, Thursday. Looking Back: The Festival biggest losers The Stayers’ Hurdle was probably the most expensive on the punter as Paisley Park, last year’s

winner and well backed for weeks before, trailed in 7th of 15 beaten 14½l by 50/1 shot Lisnagar Oscar and the Irish trained Ronald Pump at 20/1 and Bacardys at 33/1. In the Triumph Hurdle Goshen, one of the British Festival bankers, ridden by Jamie Moore dramatically crashed out at final-flight having gone over 10l clear leaving WP Mullins’ Burning Victory under Paul Townend in front at 12/1 with the best or the Irish backed Aspire Tower the runner up beaten 2¾l with Allmankind in 3rd. the Triumph Hurdle. In the Foxhunter a point to point family from Lombardstown,

Mallow, Co Cork, the Sullivan’s, won the race for the second time with It Came To Pass who pulled off the greatest shock and longest priced winner of the meeting as trained by Eugene, owned by his wife Alurie and ridden by their daughter Maxine. The 10-Y-O gelding went clear between last 2 fences and won by 10l from the favourite WP Mullins’ Billway. A win for the Irish but defeat for the Irish punter. The Martin Pipe for conditional jockeys saw Indefatigable at 25/1 win from drifter Pileon, 6/1 to 9/1, by a short head. Elliott’s Column Of Fire was challenging approaching

Point to Point View On Friday last the IRHB made a decision to call off all point to points last weekend and on Tuesday they announced that Point to Point fixtures have been cancelled until further notice. Point to Points will recommence when it is deemed appropriate to do so. Finally, as this will be the last column until racing resumes, thanks to all you readers for your support over the years and do stick to the rules vigilantly and, hopefully, we will come out of this sooner rather than later.

Curtain comes down on Connacht Rugby season Connacht Rugby has confirmed that the IRFU decision to conclude the 2019/20 season applies immediately to all domestic rugby within Connacht Rugby. As is the case with the Men’s and Women’s Energia All-Ireland Leagues, there will be no promotion or relegation in the respective Connacht Rugby Leagues for 2019/20. All teams will remain in the leagues they are currently in for 2020/21. In the respective Cup competitions where the two finalists are known, the cups will be shared with the two teams who have reached the final. In particular, this applies to the Connacht Junior Cup. This also applies to the respective Connacht Schools competitions as there were a number of cups & leagues outstanding. In total 69 leagues and cups were held across Adult, Schools and Youth Rugby. Of those competitions: * 25 competitions have been completed with one winner. * 15 competitions have ended with shared winners, based on the criteria set out by the IRFU Rugby Committee. * 25 competitions have been declared incomplete. * 4 competitions are listed as non-competitive. While Connacht Rugby shares in the deep disappointment of the club and schools rugby community that the season was unable to conclude, the body is fully supportive of the decision by the IRFU to put the physical welfare of the rugby community above all else. In a press statement, Connacht Rugby said: “We would encourage every member of our clubs and schools to

continue to adhere to the advice of the HSE and the Irish Government in relation to the current COVID-19 outbreak, particularly with regards to social distancing at all ages. “Never before has the sense of community been more important to all of us. Please continue to look out for the vulnerable people within your localities and above all, stay safe”. CONNACHT RUGBY COMPETITIONS CONCLUSION 2019/20 ADULT RUGBY Women’s League: Westport RFC Women’s Invitational Plate: Westport RFC 2nd XV Women’s Invitational Bowl: Ballinasloe RFC Women’s Cup: Incomplete Senior League: Sligo RFC Senior Cup: Sligo RFC Cawley Cup: Creggs RFC Curley Cup: Ballinasloe RFC & Corrib RFC shared Ard na Cregg Cup: Incomplete Junior Cup: Connemara RFC & Castlebar RFC shared Junior Plate: Tuam RFC & Westport RFC shared J1A League: Incomplete (Won by Connemara RFC prior to conclusion) J1B League: Incomplete J1C League: Incomplete J2 League: Portumna RFC & Westport RFC 2nd XV shared

Pictured at the Tremane Hurling Club Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel were Lisa Rogerson and Edward Boyle. Pic: Michelle Hughes Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

SportsPeople Joe’s dream team

In our last edition, Seamus Duke selected his dream team – the best Roscommon team he has seen (see Seamus’ selection on www. roscommonpeople.ie). Avid Roscommon fan Joe Kelly has now submitted his ‘Best Roscommon team since 1976’. Joe (“I’m exiled in Enniscorthy but Primrose and Blue through and through”) selected A LOT of substitutes, but we understand how difficult these selections are! Thanks for the email, Joe! (‘Best team I’ve seen’ submissions welcome to sport@roscommonpeople.ie or by post to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon). 1: Gay Sheerin 2: Harry Keegan 3: Pat Lindsay 4: Enon Gavin 5: Seanie McDermott 6: Francie Grehan 7: Danny Murray 8: Dermot Earley 9: John Newton 10: ‘Jigger’ O’Connor 11: Fergal O’Donnell 12: Mick Finneran 13: Frankie Dolan 14: Paul Earley 15: Tony McManus Subs: Paul Staunton, Pat Doorey, Gerry Connellan, Padraig McNeill, Niall Daly, Seamus Killoran, Seamus Hayden, Mickey Freyne, Eamonn ‘Junior’ McManus, Nigel Dineen, Cathal Cregg, Senan Kilbride, Enda Smith, Ciaran Murtagh.

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY Not Keane on Shearer’s pettiness! One of the BBC’s approaches to filling the sports’ void was to broadcast a Match of the Day podcast (last Saturday night, in the usual MOTD slot) in which Gary Lineker asked Ian Wright and Alan Shearer to select their top ten captains of the Premier League era. While any such distraction, however frivolous, is to be welcomed, I thought the programme was a bit disappointing. It won’t be featuring at any awards show. Three soccer legends engaging in a fun debate in one of their kitchens (Lineker’s) ought to be entertaining fare, but Shearer has little of interest to say, and while Wright is very likeable, he’s no Eamon Dunphy. Lineker’s a decent bloke too, but too bloke-y on occasions like this. My main issue with a dull and unpolished programme was Shearer’s daft and probably spiteful decision to place Roy Keane an insulting fourth in his list of 10 Greatest Captains. Shearer and Keane had a number of run-ins in their playing days, right down to fisticuffs. Shearer doesn’t like Keane (in fairness, that lack of love is presumably mutual). Under duress from Lineker and Wright, Shearer eventually promoted Keane to second (behind John Terry), but it was too late to withdraw the insult! To me, Keane was the obvious choice as No. 1 (Wright agreed, Lineker went 1: Terry; 2: Keane). The Cork man was a magnificent warrior, everything a captain should be, and besides, he won the most honours of modern-day captains, leading Manchester United to unprecedented success. Manchester United are the most successful club in Premier League history, and Keane captained them with merciless magnificence during that glory era. Debate over, Mr. Shearer!

Alan Shearer and Roy Keane had a number of run-ins in their playing days, right down to fisticuffs.

RTE could fill void with ‘Greatest players/ matches’

Roscommon Golf Club

Our re-scheduled Drive-in took place on St. Patrick’s Day with great tee-shots from President Tresina, Captain Tom and Lady Captain Sandra in the presence of members, all of whom adhered to the social distance guidelines of at least 2m. All members extend our best wishes to our officers and hope that our season will be a successful one later on in the year when the Covid-19 crisis has passed.

Boyle Golf Club

Well done to Lee McKillen who continued his recent strong form to win this year’s Spring League final held on Sunday, the 22nd of March. Tommy King is another man bringing in some great scores and he was on the podium again this week, claiming the runners-up spot. A separate 18-hole Stableford competition was held the same day. Brendan Gaffney was the winner on the day with 37 points. Pat Conroy’s 35 points were enough for second place, just edging out Lochlainn Conboy on countback. The mens’ competition next Sunday, the 29th of March, will be an 18-hole Stableford.

Channel 4 screened ‘Diego Maradona’ on Saturday – and it was a gripping and entertaining watch.

Diego, different class Channel 4 screened ‘Diego Maradona’ on Saturday, and what a gripping and entertaining watch it was. Sports fans are really missing the live action at this time. This was a terrific documentary which looked back on the life and times of the troubled Argentinian superstar. Much of the film focussed on Maradona’s time with Napoli, where he led an unfashionable and unfancied team to glory. Featured too was his dominance of the 1986 World Cup, when an unstoppable Maradona led Argentina to victory. Along the way, he scored two of

the most famous goals in history – in the one match. Nice for Argentina that their opponents were England! First came the ‘Hand of God’ handball goal, quickly followed by perhaps one of the greatest solo goals ever seen, Maradona picking up the ball on the halfway line and dribbling past at least half of the England team before rounding Peter Shilton and scoring. The commentary (for RTE) of Jimmy Magee was almost as iconic as that of the Argentinian commentator: “Different class, different class!” This superb documentary went on to

cover Maradona’s drug-fuelled downfall, charting his sad fall from grace. What helped to make the programme so memorable was the stunning footage of Maradona through the decades…as a kid (born in slums), later in Napoli, then his World Cup exploits. There was remarkable footage too of Maradona amongst family, friends and hangerson, some of the latter of the undesirable variety. It was beautiful – and sad. At his best, Diego Maradona was an incredible footballer, quite possibly the greatest ever. Amazing player. Amazing documentary. Different class.

I see where TG4 (true to form) is responding to the complete absence of live GAA action by showing classic old matches over the coming weeks. ‘GAA Man’ and ‘GAA Woman’, apart from worrying about their health, their families and their incomes during this crisis, have the added nightmare to contend with…i.e. there being no GAA games to play, attend or even to watch on TV. The TG4 initiative began last Sunday when they screened the 2014 All-Ireland Hurling final between Kilkenny and Tipperary. This Sunday (29th), the featured match will be the 1980 All-Ireland Hurling final between Limerick and Galway (1.50 pm). The first football classic to be featured will be the 2013 All-Ireland Football semi-final between Kerry and Dublin, which will be shown on Monday, 6th of April. Maybe RTE could go further and begin a weekly series whereby some guests (from their homes) discuss/select the greatest players and/or matches of all time.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020

SportsPeople

A lament for the missing simple pleasures of sport Roscommon People Editor PAUL HEALY made little impression as a sportsperson, has written about sport with slightly more distinction…and is a top class fan… Being honest, I was never that great at sport. For a while (including at school), I considered myself to be a reasonably good soccer player. Then I discovered that, quite simply, there were better players around. And they were right beside me! I dabbled with Gaelic Football, but never went much beyond the dabbling. Regret that now. Never really held a hurl either. The allure of the English Leagues and Shoot! magazine captivated me just before the great Roscommon GAA team (19771980) emerged. (Thereafter, I happily divided my devotion between GAA and soccer). When it came to athletics, I had some potential. I ran quite a bit in those far-off days. Had I persisted, I just might have been a contender (at a local/junior level, I hasten to add!)… Yeah, loved the ould running for a while back then. There was that Community Games event in Rooskey in the late 1970’s, when, one particular evening, I just streaked ahead of the field, the gap getting longer and longer. I won with ease. Oddly, the following week I was back in the pack. Then there was an annual sports day at secondary school in Newtownforbes. A strange episode. Preparing the course, we had mapped out an approximate 1000 yard route. Then, just before racetime, we were asked to move the finishing line further back (a teacher reckoned the course should be longer). The race started, and, as in the Community Games in Rooskey, I exploded from the blocks. I led all the way, but by the time we got within 100 or 200 metres of the original finishing line, I was struggling. Almost 40 years on, a shocking admission now: when I reached the original finishing line still in the lead – but with big Derek bearing down on me – I slowed down, as though I had won. A surprised looking Derek passed me, and, not unreasonably, continued on to the actual (and new) finishing line. I lamely protested for a moment, then sheepishly accepted my lot. Playing soccer for Dynamo Rooskey, I was an accident-prone full-back. But when the club organised an annual fundraising road race, I had a few good outings, winning one year, placed third the year after (when they annoyingly allowed non-club members to enter). But I could run well. At some stage, I joined Longford AC. At my first training session, we were advised that athletes from the club would take part in a meeting in Tullamore the following weekend. I went along and was thrown in at the deep end. 1500 metres over hurdles. I had never leapt over hurdles in my life, had no technique. Somehow I survived the harrowing ordeal, finishing fourth in my debut in what were actually Leinster finals. Growing up in the pub business, I had whiled away the hours at pool (and a bit of darts). Absolutely loved the pool. Forget those ‘mispent youth’ jibes – it’s a great game. I played hundreds of pool competitions (individual and team) over the years, but sadly the old eyesight now lets me down too often. How did that black not go in? It used to! Reporting When you’re a teenager, people ask what you’d like to be. My passions were sport and, when it came to subjects at school, ‘English’. Thus, writing about sport became the career goal. In 1986 I started as a (very young) sports reporter with the Longford Leader, later joining the Cavan Leader, then the Roscommon Champion. Nothing, then or since, matched the warm glow, even on the coldest days, of attending a GAA

match…with all that potential for mayhem and magic. Stephen King was a giant in Cavan, where the success-starved fans had a raw passion, a hunger for the return of the glory days. The shadow of John Joe Reilly and other Cavan heroes of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s ruthlessly followed new generations. It was a privilege to attend weekly games in the famed Breffni Park. In later years, I soldiered in Roscommon press boxes, from big match day in the Hyde to more low key but always intriguing action at other grounds, to Athleague for the hurling too (always enjoyable), with a sprinkling of soccer thrown in. The Clann years were great, if ultimately agonising too, the Johnstown men lording Roscommon and Connacht, but cruelly jilted at the altar of All-Ireland success year after year. Later (2013), the superb St. Brigid’s reached the promised land, and what a joyous day that was. Following Roscommon clubs, and particularly the county team, has been brilliant, sport weaving its seductive presence into our hearts. I think now, as we wade through this stinking Covid-19 swamp, of the enormous and emotionally charged role sport plays in our lives. How much all of us would give now for the simple pleasures of a mere month ago…dropping our

kids off in Lisnamult or at other venues…delivering them into the embrace of the fantastic volunteers in GAA, soccer and other sports. Or stepping into the Hyde to watch Roscommon navigate through the tricky league, the championship flirtatiously waiting in the wings. Before this, the Ireland rugby team, for all their inconsistency and undoubted flaws, was still a fascinating player in the Six Nations’ finale. Liverpool, striding majestically towards history, and now the joy that was to come has been so abruptly tampered with. The golf…Rory and Tiger. The Leeds United Comeback Project, like a Netflix series. All that gripping end-of-season soccer. The about-to-be born GAA (championship) summer. The Olympics. So much sport, now mired in uncertainty, clouded by Covid. Don’t like this new world. Bring back VAR, all is forgiven. Verdict: Not happy. Heroes When, as a young man, I was doing that brief bit of running on tracks and roads, potting those pool balls and playing soccer rather erratically, I was also being smitten by heroes. The great Alex Higgins. Bestie. Tony Currie. Eamonn Coghlan. Muhammad Ali. Seve. Dermot Ear-

ley. Matt Le Tissier. McEnroe. And Borg. It was all magic then, it’s magic now. I cannot describe the excitement and adrenaline rush we felt when rising to watch Ali at 4 o’clock in the morning (our time) in those epic 1970’s fights with Frazier and Foreman. Magic watching Kempes and Luque in the 1978 World Cup, and the peerless Maradona eight years later. Magic watching Alex defy physics (that pot on the blue, see Youtube) in his mesmerising, hair-standing-on-head victory over Jimmy White in the 1982 World Snooker Championship semi-final (prior to an emotional win over Ray Reardon in the title decider). Sport is glorious, whether you’re dabbling in it as a young person, writing about it as a journalist, or viewing it as a fan. God, how we miss it. We look forward to normal service resuming after the break. Bring back the sport, bring back yesterday. Bring it back for all of us – the dreamers who’ve seen it all, for the players now sidelined, bring it back for the children who’ve had their weekends stolen. And if you’re ever a superstar like Seb Coe or Eamonn Coghlan, or a run of the mill junior soccer player who comes into their own in road races in Kilglass, then run with everything you have, push for the (real) finish line, and smile while the cold wind blows and you inhale and savour the peerless magic of this (for now) stolen pleasure.

Roscommon People Friday 27 March 2020