Roscommon People - 17 April 2026

ATHLONE MOATE LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY

WATCHING People

With

PAUL HEALY

CYCLING ACCIDENT

DOLORES GACQUIN – SOLICITOR

Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie

Mobile Phone Theft

www.bccsolicitors.ie 090 647 8433 * In

I was walking down a busy street in my local town last week when a person ran up from behind me and snapped my mobile phone from my hand. It happened so quickly there was nothing I could do. I was distracted so the whole scenario made me a target. I read somewhere that I can arrange to have the phone blocked so that it is useless to the burglar. Is this possible?

If it is an iPhone

1. Go to icloud.com/find (or use the Find My app on another Apple device).

2. Sign in with your Apple Account.

3. Select the iPhone.

4. Turn on Lost Mode (this locks the phone, shows a message, and helps track it).

5. If you think you will not get it back, choose Erase This Device.

If it is an Android phone

1. Go to android.com/find.

2. Sign in with the Google account used on the phone.

3. Select the device.

4. Choose Secure device (locks it and can display a message and number).

5. If you will not get it back, choose Erase device.

Call your mobile provider and ask for both:

• SIM block and SIM replacement (stops calls and SMS to your number).

• IMEI block (blacklist the handset).

You should also consider doing the following:

1. Change your Apple ID or Google password .

2. Change banking and main social passwords.

3. Sign out of sessions for important apps where possible.

4. Remove the stolen phone as a trusted device in Apple ID or Google security settings.

5. Call your bank if you had banking apps logged in or card wallets enabled.

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

A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice speci c 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

Endangered Species

THURSDAY

“This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!”

Boyo 1, who appreciated that being a millionaire now isn’t quite as sensational as it would have been in the 1980s, was channelling his inner Del Boy.

The lads had arrived in New York, with a pep in their step, ambition in their hearts… and Barry’s tea in their cases.

“Rudy Giuliani rid this city of crime” Boyo 1 proclaimed knowledgeably as they inhaled the wonder of the Big Apple.

(Editor: “Rudy Guiliani? For God’s sake, nothing like a topical reference! I should never have sent these guys over”).

Unknown to the Editor, the Boyos had big plans. Big ambition for the Big Apple. Could they be on the point of a big career breakthrough?

Satisfied that crime was not an issue, and that New York is a thriving, wonderful city, they hopped on the subway, heading – at least they hoped so – for the centre of the city that never sleeps. Then Boyo 1 became nervous, all of a sudden.

“What’s up, my pal?”

“That guy’s been staring me out of it since we got on!”

Sure enough, a man with a slightly crooked nose and a very straight back was making regular eye contact with Boyo 1. Boyo 2 smiled. “Oh he’s grand… it’s not like in the movies!”

The man with the (slightly) crooked nose then approached Boyo 1, passing through a group of stressed commuters with soulless expressions and headphones attached to their heads so they could remain lost in the rhythm of their daily grind.

“I’m from Man…” the stranger began, as Boyo 1’s heart skipped a beat.

“Manhattan?” spluttered Boyo 1, exhibiting his ‘go to’ nervous smile. “We love your city!”

“No! I’m from Mantua! Are ye the lads that write for the paper? Sure I was chatting to ye at Elphin Show a few years ago!”

FRIDAY

The Boyos passed several art galleries and museums en route to the fabulous bars they had read about in a recent edition of the Roscommon People In those bars, they mingled with hundreds of Roscommon supporters. All was well with the world. The Pub Bore arrived on Friday evening, and began to bore New York. It was a great time to be alive.

(Editor: “Get me those expenses receipts – now!”).

On Friday night, the Boyos disguised themselves and discreetly joined hundreds of Rossies in 5th&MAD. It wasn’t a night for autographs or selfies; they had no wish to steal the limelight from anyone. Later, they strolled back to their hotel, excited about their planned meeting with the New York Times sub-editor (to be continued in a future edition).

SATURDAY

The Boyos avoided the big Rossie photo-op in Times Square, partly so as not to be swamped by fans, and partly because they had ended up drinking shots in their hotel with a tipsy influencer who was trying to convince the Boyos he could secure an agent for them in New York.

The Boyos in NY (exclusive insights)

SUNDAY

The match was a stroll in the (Gaelic) Park. After a memorable afternoon, the Boyos linked up with the Pub Bore and a few hundred Roscommon supporters, partying the night away. They told nobody about their plans for a career launch in New York.

Boyo 1 took a call from Michael HealyRae around midnight (the two are friendly, having discussed a possible political alliance before). Boyo 2 overheard part of the conversation: “Go for it Michael! You’ll never regret it!”

MONDAY

After a few afternoon beers, Boyo 2 was really letting his hair down. By now, the Man from Mantua (his nose still slightly crooked) had joined them.

A bemused American asked why they were in town.

Boyo 2 put his arm around the American. “Why are we in town? The Rossies were playing New York!”

The American grinned. “Did ye win?” “Win? Huh! To paraphrase a Norwegian football commentator… Al Pacino! Robert De Niro! Woody Allen! Sarah Jessica Parker! Tom Cruise! Jay-Z! Scarlett Johansson! The cast of Friends. Donald Trump! You’re boys took a hell of a beating!”

(To be continued)

Public meeting on water quality issues in Boyle

A public information meeting on water quality and related environmental issues in the Boyle Municipal District will take place later this month.

The event is being organised by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO), which works on behalf of Ireland’s 31 local authorities to protect and restore water quality in rivers, lakes, estuaries, groundwater and coastal waters.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 28th, from 7 pm to 8.30 pm, in the Main Salon

at King House, Military Road, Boyle, County Roscommon.

Under Ireland’s River Basin Management Plan, LAWPRO works in areas where water quality requires protection or restoration. These locations are known as Priority Areas for Action (PAAs), where targeted measures are introduced in collaboration with local communities and relevant stakeholders.

The upcoming meeting is aimed at raising awareness of ongoing work to improve water quality in the Boyle area and encouraging

wider community engagement. Representatives from key agencies, special interest groups, and the voluntary, public and private sectors are all being encouraged to attend.

LAWPRO has been working in the area in recent years as part of the second cycle of Ireland’s River Basin Management Plan. At the meeting, LAWPRO experts will outline the work carried out to date and discuss what is planned under the third cycle Water Action Plan.

There will also be an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions and to speak with representatives from the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP).

Ahead of the event, Anthony Coleman, Director of Services with LAWPRO, said the meeting would give people a chance to learn more about the condition of local waterways and the next steps planned for the area.

For Job Seekers & Those Seeking Career Opportunities

Are you looking for a job, training, or new employment opportunities?

Then this is the event for you! Join us at the Roscommon Career and Employment Expo on Wednesday, 22nd April 2026, starting at 11 am at Kilbride Community Centre (F42 N277).

Why Attend?

This Expo is a fantastic opportunity to: Meet employers face-to-face and explore current job openings.

Learn about apprenticeships, training programs, and further education opportunities.

Get career advice and insights to help you take the next step in your journey. Hand out your CV directly to hiring companies – so make sure it’s up to date!

Need Help with Your CV?

A well-crafted CV is your rst chance to impress potential employers. If you need assistance creating or updating your CV, we’re here to help! Regular CV clinics run

across the county, o ering support to job seekers.

Contact Linda at 086 7807438 or email linda@ridc.ie to book a CV appointment. Free Transport Available

We’ve arranged transport to and from various locations to make it easy for you to attend. Reserve your place on the bus by lling out this form:

https://forms.gle/buvGwzGiFuy218xV9 Have Questions?

We’re happy to help! Reach out to us at 090 6630205 or email claire@ridc.ie.

This event is proudly funded under the Roscommon LEADER Partnership SICAP programme on behalf of Roscommon Local Community Development Committee. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is cofunded by the Irish Government, through the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021-2027

For Employers

Roscommon LEADER Partnership is calling on employers across the region to take part in an upcoming Career and Employment Expo, taking place on Wednesday, April 22nd 2026, from 11 am at Kilbride Community Centre (F42 N277).

This engaging and dynamic event will bring together a diverse range of employers—from start-ups and entrepreneurs to well-established businesses – with job seekers and individuals eager to explore new career opportunities. The Expo will also provide valuable networking opportunities with education and training providers who support workforce development across the region.

In today’s competitive labour market, sourcing the right talent can be a challenge. This Expo o ers employers a unique platform to connect directly with potential candidates in a more personal and e cient way, while also raising awareness of their organisation

within the local community. Employers who exhibit at the event will have the opportunity to:

• Promote their company and increase visibility within the local employment market

• Meet and engage with prospective employees face-toface

• Showcase current job vacancies and career pathways

• Connect with skilled and motivated individuals ready to contribute to business growth

Roscommon LEADER Partnership encourages all interested employers to get involved and take advantage of this valuable recruitment and networking opportunity.

For further information or to register your interest, please contact 090 6630252 or email claire@ridc.ie.

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WEEKLY CLINIC AT THE HIVE, DUBLIN ROAD, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON EVERY WEDNESDAY.

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PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

THURSDAY

The Masters

The greatest of golf’s four majors – in terms of prestige, tradition, atmosphere, profile – tees off. For armchair viewers, the Masters is a TV marathon that offers drama, excitement and great entertainment.

Very soon I was reminded that there are perhaps only three certainties in life – death, taxes, and annoyingly frequent ad breaks during Sky Sports’ coverage of the Masters.

*Four certainties in life if you include Michael Healy-Rae never ‘forgetting’ to wear his cap when in public.

FRIDAY

Irish Print Awards

Due to attend the Irish Print Awards tonight, we decided to take the train to Dublin, not being keen on taking the car into the ‘Deep Unknown’.

We travelled from Longford, where a fellow passenger shared that he was going to Dublin purely for the purpose of donating “25 sandwiches” to protestors in O’Connell Street.

We got off in Drumcondra, walking to the Croke Park Hotel, where we were staying. The awards ceremony was in the splendid Clontarf Castle Hotel, a 15-minute taxi trip with a driver who went against stereotype and didn’t talk about the state the country’s in (or his solutions to same). There, we joined up to 300 guests for a black-tie event. Our four children were with us.

The Roscommon People was nominated for three national awards (see page 18). A lot of middle-aged men in black tuxedos and perhaps half as many ladies in fabulous outfits mingled amidst a cheery hum of anticipation and general giddiness.

We had a great night… with a threecourse meal, actor/writer Alan Shortt as MC, music, and the awards, our daughter Emma, much to our delight, winning a Bronze Award in the ‘Rising Star in Print’ category. Later, the craic was good in that exclusive social hub of the modern era, widely known as The Chilly Outdoor Smoking Area Where

A (mostly) light-hearted look at the week that was…

Strangers Strike Up Chat At The Drop of a Cigarette Butt.

SATURDAY

Calling to O’Connell Street

A stroll to O’Connell Street to indulge in some people watching. All steps led to the farmers/hauliers protest, by now supported/hijacked by other parties too.

Sure enough, the most famous street in the country was blocked off, rows of tractor and lorries parked up, farmers casually strolling around as onlookers took photos and a general air of calmness prevailed.

One farmer sat on the step of his tractor, filling in a crossword in a magazine, as though sitting in his armchair at home… and not in the middle of O’Connell Street… surrounded by strangers, fellow protestors, members of the media, and Gardaí. While the overall mood was good-humoured, further up at O’Connell Bridge it was quite tense, with various groups having assembled. We only stayed for ten minutes or so, as our train back home beckoned. Later, in the early hours of Sunday

morning, the Gardaí would ‘reclaim’ O’Connell Street, successfully encouraging the protestors to move their vehicles. I hope our friend completed his crossword.

SUNDAY

Augusta & Gaelic Park

Spent the evening watching Rory and listening to Willie. To be honest, I’m not overly keen on listening to Rory, because he really does say some frustrating stuff in his media interviews. That said, he’s very good at getting the old golf ball into the hole, albeit that his methodology is often unconventional. For the avoidance of confusion, I’m certainly not having a go at Rory… his latest Masters success was another brilliant achievement. Rory McIlroy, as I’ve observed here before, is box office… the most exciting golfer on earth on his day. Winning back-to-back Masters now propels him to a new level… and there will surely be more McIlroy majors in the future. As for Willie Hegarty, he was broadcasting from Gaelic Park in New York, where it quickly became

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

obvious that Roscommon footballers would have no difficulty in dispensing with the challenge of the ‘home’ side. Roscommon won with ease (5-22 to 1-10), the (unsuccessful) ghosts of 2016 well and truly silenced.

MONDAY

Walk in my shoes

In Roscommon today I watched, with a touch of empathy and hopefully no condescension, as an elderly man gingerly made his way along the footpath, aided by his walking stick. Then I realised that at least at that moment, he was passing me out…

TUESDAY

Healy-Rae cap-sizes…

And so the stormy seas of recent days have caused the Government much turmoil, and the ship has all but capsized. Arriving home from a very long day at work – New York coverage and all that – I checked in on Prime Time (RTE One) and The Tonight Show (Virgin Media One) to assess the fallout

from Michael Healy-Rae’s surprise resignation as Minister of State (presumably to spend more time with his constituents).

On Prime Time, RoscommonGalway TD Michael Fitzmaurice was measured and impressive when interviewed by Miriam O’Callaghan. Less assured was Minister Peter Burke, Mullingar’s latest rising star (I’m not counting Michael O’Leary or Niall Horan, both of whom are established international superstars). Deputy Burke got off uncharacteristically lightly for someone being questioned by Sarah McInerney.

Fitzmaurice’s fellow RoscommonGalway TD, Claire Kerrane also wasn’t pressed as much as she might have been (by host Shane Coleman) when repeatedly indicating she had no issue with any protestors who acted illegally over recent days. Later in the programme, Deputy Kerrane softened her position a little, stating that she did not like to see ‘rogue individuals’ threatening An Garda Síochána, while still insisting that everything that had happened (in the protests) could have been avoided if the Government acted differently.

I gave up on all this chatter before either Timmy Dooley or Fionnan Sheahan could begin a new sentence.

TUESDAY

What Micheál did next… Throughout the discussion on The Tonight Show, Michael Healy-Rae’s very pointed criticism of Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s leadership was a backdrop.

I wondered if like me, Deputy Martin also flicked his TV on when he arrived home (or to his hotel) from work tonight. It’s fair to assume that if he did, he would have passed on the Tonight Show.

Of course he might have stayed on the channel… next up after the political post-mortem was an episode of Gogglebox. After that – the Taoiseach now relaxing, in my imagined scenario – was an old episode of Living with Lucy. Special guest? Michael Healy-Rae.

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Do you know?

The public can stay informed about road closures and roadworks within County Roscommon with MapAlerter, a free service delivering alerts straight to your phone or email. To register for free SMS and email alerts use the link https://www.mapalerter.ie/signup

An raibh a fhios agat?

Is féidir leis an bpobal fanacht ar an eolas faoi dhúnadh bóithre agus faoi oibreacha bóthair i gContae Ros Comáin le MapAlerter, seirbhís saor in aisce a sheachadann foláirimh díreach chuig do ghuthán nó chuig do ríomhphost. Chun clárú le haghaidh foláirimh SMS agus ríomhphoist saor in aisce, bain úsáid as an nasc seo: https://www.mapalerter.ie/signup

TEMPORARY

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason specified.

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

Road Reference Townland Closure duration Section of Closure Proposed Diversion

LS-6121 Bumlin and Cloonradoon 5th May to 12th June 2026 Length of closure 150m. Closure starting 1km from the LS6121 Junction with the N5.

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Reason for Closures: To facilitate N5 Road Project

Mark Keaveney

Mark Keaveney

Director of Services

Director of Services

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Diversion will be north along the LS-6121 towards Lavally/Kilmore, onto the LP-1405, then turning west towards Strokestown, where you will pick up the R368 and N5, to head back towards Scramoge.

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12

Roscommon County Council has decided to close the road set out in the schedule hereunder for the periods and the reason speci ed.

Road to be closed: Junction 13 N6 Westbound

Period of Closure: 8pm on 5/5/26 to 6am on 6/5/26

Road to be closed: Junction 13 N6 Eastbound

Period of Closure: 8pm on 6/5/26 to 6am on 7/5/26

Alternative Routes: N6/R446/R362/R914

Reason for Closures: To facilitate Public Lighting Upgrade on N6 sliproads by Electric Skyline

Mark Keaveney

Director of Services

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

An Bealach Éasca chun Do Ghuth a Dhaing

Clár Toghthóirí Chomhairle Contae Ros Comáin

Déan iarratas ar líne ag www.checktheregister.ie

Má tá tú cláraithe le vótáil cheana féin, seiceáil go bhfuil do shonraí, lena n-áirítear Dáta Breithe, Eircode, Uimhir Theagmhála agus UPSP, cothrom le dáta. Tá sé seo chun a chinntiú go bhfuil Clár Toghthóirí cruinn ann.

Is ortsa atá an fhreagracht a chinntiú go bhfuil do shonraí cothrom le dáta agus ceart

Téigh i dteagmháil lenár n-oi g ar: 090 663 7147

checkthereg@roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon man Damien Hogan to skydive for Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland

A Roscommon man is preparing to take a leap of faith – quite literally – as he gears up for a charity parachute jump in aid of Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland, with the aim of raising €600 or more for the cause.

Damien Hogan, from Roscommon Town, will take part in the skydive at the Irish Parachute Club (Clonbullogue Airfield, Clonad ,Clonbullogue, County Offaly) where participants will take to the skies in support of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

This is not Damien’s first time taking on a challenge for charity. A number of years ago, he completed a similar parachute jump and raised an impressive €1,200 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland. Speaking about his latest fundraiser, Damien said the cause is deeply personal.

“I’ve lost several close friends

‘Ireland isn’t spared from this. It’s something that touches nearly every community. If this jump can help raise awareness, start conversations, or even help one person, then it’s worth it’

to suicide over the years, and it’s something that has affected me deeply,” he said.

Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland has been providing free mental health and suicide prevention education and training services to schools and colleges across Ireland for more than 17 years. Its work focuses on helping young people develop the tools to cope, speak up and support one another.

According to the World Health Organisation, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young people worldwide – a reality that continues to affect communities across Ireland.

“Ireland isn’t spared from this. It’s something that touches nearly every community,” Damien added.

“If this jump can help raise awareness, start conversations, or even help one person, then it’s worth it.”

Despite the nerves that come with jumping out of a plane, Damien said the motivation behind the fundraiser far outweighs any fear.

He is now calling on people in Roscommon and beyond to support the cause and help him reach – and hopefully exceed – his €600 target.

Donations can be made by scanning the QR code included with this article or by visiting the online fundraiser page.

“Every donation, no matter how small, can make a real difference,” Damien said.

Age & Opportunity funding for older people in Roscommon

Age & Opportunity has announced €9,750 in grants to support sport and physical activity for 34 groups in Roscommon. The Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme, funded by Sport Ireland, will assist over 1,000 clubs, groups and organisations across the country to the tune of €300,000 in grants this year. The funding recipients announced under the 2026 scheme include Family Carers, Men’s and Women’s Sheds, ICA groups, Active Retirement Groups, Physical Activity Leaders (PALs) and other social, sporting and community associations.

Recipients in Roscommon are: Ballinagare Health and Leisure Centre, The Cornerstone (Frenchpark), Elphin Day Centre, Ballaghaderreen Women’s Shed, ICA Guild (Castlerea), Boyle Family Resource Centre, Rooskey Active Retirement, Fairview Hostel (Strokestown), Strokestown Day Centre, Ballinlough-Granlahan Active Retirement Association, Monksland Active Age, St Ronan’s Hall Community Company

LTD, Rooskey Development & Social Inclusion Group LTD, St Michael’s GAA (Cootehall), Family Carers Ireland Roscommon, Castlerea Services Brothers

of Charity Services Ireland-West Region, Mo Chairde, Lisacul Reminiscence, Roscommon Golf Club, Ballaghaderreen & Keadue Rural Men’s Groups, Dysart Ru-

ral Men’s Group, Elphin Men’s Group, St Ciaran’s Community Centre, Ballaghaderreen Men’s Shed, Lanesboro ESB Retired Staff and Pensioners Association, Lough Ree Men’s Shed, Active Age Ballintubber, Breedogue ARA, Frenchpark ICA, Let’s Go Club ARA, Cortober Residents Association, Killaraght Active Age, Woodlands Evergreen Club (Loughglynn), and Roscommon Town ICA Guild.

Over 20,000 grants to the tune of almost €8.5m have been awarded since the inception of the Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme in 2001. Every year, circa 34,000 older people take part in physical activity funded through the scheme.

Grant funding for 2026 will support the rollout of activities such as pickleball, dancing, walking, cycling, table tennis, walking football, yoga and much more. The financial support will enable organisations to purchase sports equipment and host active initiatives and events for older people.

OBITUARY: The late Marie-Frances Corroon

The death occurred on November 29th, 2025 of Marie-Frances Corroon (nee Ryan), a native of Oran, Donamon, County Roscommon. Daughter of Pat and Mary Kate Ryan (nee Featherston), MarieFrances emigrated to London in the mid-1950s where she began training for a career as a nurse. In 1960, Marie-Frances graduated after four years of training from St Andrew’s Hospital, Dollis Hill, London.

newsbriefs

Bridge club results

Around this period, she met her future husband, James A. Corroon, at a Nurses’ Dance in London.

James A., a native of Killucan, County Westmeath, was at the time working as a London Underground Railway Controller.

After a five-year courtship, James A. and Marie-Frances were married in 1965, with the wedding taking place in Cloverhill Church, followed by a reception in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. The happy couple honeymooned in Europe, Scandinavia and Russia, returning via Poland, East and West Germany, Belgium and London, England.

Thereafter, they settled in London. At the hospital she worked in, Marie-Frances was promoted to Sister, then Department Sister, then Assistant Matron. She is remembered as a wonderfully dedicated nurse who nursed the sick with professionalism, compassion and care for 47 years. Indeed the care she showed to so many people – and the support to their families – during her nursing career is

The most recent results from the Roscommon bridge clubs are as follows: Roscommon Bridge Club – 1st: Kitty Dowd & Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; 2nd: Maurice Buckley & Larry Shine; Gross: Tresina & Tommie Murphy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club – 1st: Mary & Terry O’Keeffe; 2nd: Joan Donnellan & Margaret Gillen; Gross: June Halliday & Tommie Murphy.

St Coman’s Bridge Club – 1st: Mary Judge & Agnes Murray; 2nd: Margaret Egan & Maura Moran; Gross: Kitty Dowd & Celia Ansboro.

Kilteevan Tidy

Towns Spring Clean

The Kilteevan Tidy Towns/An Taisce Spring Clean is taking place on Saturday, April 18th .

Everyone is invited to come together for a day of positive action, to foster community spirit and contribute to a healthier environment for our community.

Participants can gather at the community centre at 10 am. High visibility jackets and bags will be provided. Please bring your own gloves.

A thank you from the MS Society

The Roscommon branch of the MS Society (Multiple Sclerosis of Ireland) wishes to thank everyone who gave so generously towards their Church gate collection in Roscommon Town on March 28th and 29th last. The amount received was €1,131.74. Many thanks to everyone who helped at the gates.

Thank you from Roscommon SPCA

Roscommon SPCA has extended a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported their Church Gate Collection at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon Town over the Easter weekend.

The public’s generosity raised an incredible €1,173.91, all of which will now go directly to helping sick and injured animals across County Roscommon. The branch said: “To our wonderful volunteers – thank you for braving the cold wind, rain and hailstones with smiles and determination. Your dedication makes everything we do possible. Together, we’re making a real difference.”

a wonderful legacy left by MarieFrances.

In 1974, while both had two good careers in England, the fact that James’ parents and Marie-Frances’

father were now elderly, prompted the couple to move back to Ireland. They settled in Dublin, where they had many happy years, James A. working in the property business. Marie-Frances enjoyed visiting her brother Joe Ryan, an ex-Roscommon footballer, and there were many meet-ups after games in Croke Park.

On retiring in the early 2000s, James A. and Marie-Frances moved to Killucan (County Westmeath), where they purchased some land and built a home. They also purchased a shop in Mullingar. As James A. recently recalled, they enjoyed celebrating many special occasions during their retirement, with milestones celebrated in hotels or through travelling around the world.

In 2019, Marie-Frances became ill with a stroke. For the remaining six years of her life, her husband James A. lovingly cared for her.

James A. and Marie-Frances spent 65 years together as husband and wife. James A. adored Marie-

Frances, recalling that she was a wonderful wife and life companion – and also a wonderfully dedicated nurse, who saved many lives through early diagnosis.

At 4.20 pm on November 25th, 2025 Marie-Frances died in her husband’s arms. Her funeral was held on December 3rd, 2025.

James A. said: “We travelled the world – to 76 countries – mostly during our retirement. We had a wonderful 65 years together.”

Lough Ree RNLI crew diverted from training to lake rescue

The weekly ‘on the water’ training session for a Lough Ree RNLI crew became the real thing on Tuesday, April 7th, when the volunteer crew were called to assist one person on board a cruiser that had run aground near Coosan Point.

Throughout the year, Lough Ree RNLI volunteer crew undergo weekly training from the charity’s boathouse at Coosan Point.

In this instance, the crew –Billy Henshaw Jnr, Ruth Costello, Patrick Walsh and John Naughton – had begun their three-hour training session on the lake at 6 pm. At 7.40 pm, Lough Ree RNLI was called to assist one man on board a 29 ft steel cruiser that had run aground off Coosan Point.

Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Launch Authority Declan Moran requested the lifeboat crew, under helm Billy Henshaw Jnr, to assist the stricken boat.

Arriving at the scene, the crew found one man on board; the vessel had run aground on rocks off Coosan Point. After an assessment of the situation, the boat was left at anchor for later recovery, while the owner was taken on board the ‘Tara Scougall’ to the lifeboat station at Coosan.

In further training news, congratulations are in order for Naveen Nath and Ankur Arora, who passed as shoe crew following their assessments on the same evening.

Lough Ree RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Dave McCourt said, “It’s this continuous training of new recruits that keeps the station ready to respond to calls from members of the public. It’s also great to see crew members progressing, developing their skills and reaching important milestones.”

The training programme

continued on Sunday, April 12th, when Lough Ree RNLI volunteer crew took part in a joint training exercise with the Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 at Lough Ree

Launch of 2026 Ploughing finals

The launch of the 2026 Roscommon Ploughing Championships and Family Fun Day is scheduled to take place in Dalton’s Bar, Fuerty on Thursday, April 23rd at 8.30 pm. Venue kindly provided by Dalton’s. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Roscommon SPCA Church Gate collections

The Roscommon society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (Roscommon SPCA) will be holding its annual Church Gate collection at the following churches on Sunday, April 19th: St Bride’s Church, Ballintubber, and St Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish.

Roscommon SPCA charity is run by a team of dedicated volunteers with all money donated going directly towards animal welfare in the county.

Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy

A Special Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre, Curraghboy (N37W704), at 8 pm on Friday, April 17th. The celebrant will be Fr John Walsh. Confessions will be available from 7 pm and the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm. Fr John will bless Holy water and all religious items before Mass. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Individual Blessings for Healing will take place after Mass. Refreshments will be available afterwards. All are most welcome to attend.

Sunflower Days for Hospice

Mayo-Roscommon Hospice would appreciate your kind assistance in helping them raise funds on National Sunflower Days for Hospice on Friday, June 12th, and Saturday, June 13th. Sunflowers will be on sale at local stores in Roscommon on both dates. Any time you can give on any of those dates would be most appreciated. To get in contact, phone 094 9388666 or email info@hospice.ie.

€50,000 for protection of heritage building in Castlerea

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, have announced funding of €50,000 for the repair and protection of a historic County Roscommon property under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026. The funding has been awarded for works to Clonalis House, Castlerea, County Roscommon and will be used for repairs to the breakfront

including slated roof, leaded balcony and windows.

Announcing the funding, Minister Browne said, “The award of funding under the Historic Structures Fund is a demonstration of our commitment to preserving and enhancing Ireland’s architectural legacy.

“Along with the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, this Government is continuing its commitment to safeguard our built heritage, keep-

ing many buildings in use and helping to bring many others back into use.

“The funding also supports the survival of the skills and expertise needed to maintain our built heritage and this will also have an economic benefit by generating employment for heritage contractors and other skilled crafts and tradespeople across the country.”

This year, 40 projects across Ireland will benefit from €4.42m in HSF funding.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Off the grid in Cabo Roig

Our columnist talks communication difficulties on his recent holiday, compares prices in Spain and at home – amid tense fuel protests – praises Rory McIlroy’s second successive Masters win, and hails the Grand National winner

After one of the worst weekends weather-wise that I can remember, it is now a nice and sunny Monday morning as I write these words!

I have just done my (almost) daily walk round the grounds of the rugby club, but my mind is back in sunny Spain in the lovely coastal town of Cabo Roig. As I told you last week, I made the flight out of Knock by the skin of my teeth, but by midday we were landed in Alicante and before mid-afternoon I was unpacking.

The unpacking didn’t take long as I hadn’t much with me. I always think that the only essentials are my bank cards, a bit of cash, my passport, boarding pass, and my box of tablets… of which there are so many I sometimes wonder if the security people ever think I’m a drug dealer! I was of the opinion that everything else is replaceable, but it wasn’t too long before I found out that wasn’t the case… I headed off down to the strip (not the club, just the area of pubs and restaurants), where I had the big all-day breakfast in YOLO and studied, but didn’t buy, the merchandise on sale all over the place. On every available space on the footpaths, there were jerseys, hoodies, trainers, sunglasses, jewellery, squeaky toys, and loads of other stuff. I decided I’d send a picture back home to my family WhatsApp to see if anyone wanted any of the totally genuine merchandise –a Rolex watch for €20 and ASICS runners for €20 being typical examples.

It was then that I found out my phone was dead, and no matter how I tried to charge it, nothing happened! And so I was out in Spain on my own, with no way of contacting home or being contacted from home.

I wasn’t worried though, and thought to myself I would simply ask someone if I could borrow their phone for a few moments in order to ring home… but that didn’t turn out to be as easy as I thought.

I simply couldn’t bring myself to approach anyone as they sat at the bar or at tables of the restaurants. Then I thought one of the pubs or restaurants would have a landline that I could use, but again I drew a blank as no one had one. Eventually, Craig in O’Riordan’s gave me his phone and I was able to let people at home know that I was still alive. He also told me that there was a phone shop up in the Zenia Boulevard, and so bright and early the next morning, Saturday, I made the long walk there.

I won’t go into details, but trying to buy phones off salespeople who don’t speak English when you don’t speak Spanish is not to be recommended! When all was said and done, I had bought two phones in different shops. The first was an iPhone that turned out not to be an iPhone and was basically useless (thanks to Cathy in YOLO, I could just about take calls and get them, but nothing else worked), while the other was the old-style flip-up phone that the kids said would be great for my drug-smuggling business! Anyway, at the end of it all, I think that doing away with all phone boxes is a mistake (or maybe some businesses could have a landline?), just like doing away with chimneys here is. The good news is that on Monday night, after my daughter Tara arrived out, all was well and I was fully back on track.

Overall, I have to say that the week out there was really lovely. The weather was fabulous and I hit the outdoor pool every day! We met up with our neighbours and friends Richard and Olivia Smyth on a couple of nights, and I was glad to run into a great Offaly man, Dermot Moore, his wife Monica, and their very well-known dog, Penny. Both Dermot and Monica have had slight health issues recently and I was delighted to see them out and about and well on the way to full recovery.

After a week in temperatures of 25 degrees or so, it was some shock to walk down the airplane steps in Knock to the weather that greeted us on our return – but by now I’m used to it and glad to be home… I think!

Fuel prices fuel anger

As we soldier on here through the protests and the blockades, it’s timely to talk about prices in Spain.

Our driver to the airport told us that diesel was €1.20 a litre before the recent upsurge, and it is about €1.90 at the moment. It is still way cheaper than it is here, of course… and everything else seems to be as well.

A three-course evening meal in YOLO or other similar places is between 16 and 20 euro – and that’s starter, main, and dessert. Now, the price of food in the supermarkets seems to have got more expensive than a few years ago, but it’s still a lot better value than at home.

It’s a pity that it has come to this in Ireland, and it’s a shame that ordinary folk are being hugely inconvenienced and disrupted in their daily lives, but there can be no doubt that the Government, yet again, failed to have any idea as to how the people were feeling.

They say new measures have been taken to help hauliers, contractors, and other huge diesel users, but as I hear of blockades in Castlebar and loads of other parts of the country on this Monday afternoon (it takes a good while to write this, although you mightn’t think it), I think all these protests have a way to go yet.

We’ll wait and see!

The skill of the Irish

For the first time in a good few years I didn’t actually get to see the Aintree Grand National on Saturday – not for any great prior engagement, but simply because I forgot about it.

However, there was no huge surprise when I learned that Carlow’s Willie Mullins had trained the winner, I Am Maximus, or that JP McManus was the winner’s owner. Paul Townend was the winning rider, and I suppose there are hardly any three people more successful in their respective fields.

In his post-race interview, Mullins told us that any time his horse wins a big race like the Gold Cup or the Grand National, they do a parade at their local pub, The Lord Bagenal, and that the horses come into the car park where there’s an ice cream van for the kids and where people can have their photos taken with the winning horse.

He said some of his successful horses were there for up to two hours being so well mannered, but when I Am Maximus was brought there after winning the National in 2024, he “tried to bite three babies and kicked about four pensioners”. They had to load him up and bring him home after five minutes, so I am wondering how he’ll behave when they bring him back again.

I’m no expert on horses or their behaviour, but a few years ago, my daughter Tara had a very successful show jumper, but if anyone except Tara went to rub her, they could lose a finger very quick. She (the horse, not Tara) was so quick to try to bite. Even Carol, my late wife, who grew up with horses, was fair game, and she too learned very quickly to keep her distance.

So when I Am Maximus arrives, maybe leave the babies and the old folk at home when the celebrations take place, or else take refuge in the Lord Bagenal.

Also in sport, there was massive success for Ireland with Rory McIlroy winning the Masters for the second year in a row! The fact that only three iconic golfers – Jack Nicklaus, Nick

Faldo, and Tiger Woods – had done it before him shows how enormous an achievement it was. It wasn’t quite as nerve-racking as last year, but being Rory, it wasn’t simple either. His drive at the last was so errant it could have ended up anywhere – luckily he got away with only losing one of the two shots he had in hand and held on to win by one shot.

As I’ve often said before, Ireland punches way above its weight in world sport, and Rory and Willie gave us all reason to be proud to be Irish. Well done to both, and of course to Paul Townend as well!

And finally…

You may remember that I was critical of the fact that the Connacht Junior Cup final was played on Easter Monday at 6 pm. I felt that the biggest game of the year for junior rugby clubs was disrespected by the powers that be.

When I came home on Friday, I bought copies of the Tuam Herald and the Connacht Tribune as well as picking up a copy or two of the free Roscommon People (the Herald was out too early to have a match report), and the fantastic coverage of the game on all three papers only served to prove my point.

More than two and a half thousand supporters attended the game and apparently the atmosphere was terrific. When that many people go to Galway at that hour on a bank holiday Monday, it only goes to show how important a game it was for everybody involved.

Let’s hope whoever is there next year, that the Connacht branch gives it the respect it deserves and that it is played at a sensible time!

‘Til next week, bye for now

Ballybay Central NS students for CU quiz final

Ballybay Central National School in Kiltoom is having a busy and productive year, marked by several notable achievements across academics, sports and the arts.

After performing exceptionally well in the regional qualifying rounds, the junior quiz team has secured a place in the Credit Union All-Ireland Quiz Final. Réiltín, Annabel, Daithí and Eve will be travelling to the RDS in Dublin on April 18th to represent the school on a national stage – an ac-

complishment that reflects the hard work and preparation of the pupils, teachers and parents.

The choir has also been invited to perform alongside the St Brigid’s Community Choir at the St Brigid’s GAA Centre. This collaboration offers the students a great chance to participate in a local musical event.

On the sporting front, the FAIS 5-aside boys’ soccer team has progressed successfully and will compete in the county final in Lecarrow this month.

The other teams – girls’ and boys’ – played with passion and narrowly missed out.

The school’s environmental efforts also continue as the students work towards their 12th Green Flag. These are supported by a wide range of activities ongoing in the school, including the orchestra thanks to Music Generation, Trash Fash recycling to design, Lá Glas, Active Flag activities, concerts, and cross-country running, to mention but a few.

PRESS RELEASE Roscommon County

Council

Announces the Second and Final Public Consultation Event for the Proposed HODSON BAY WATERFRONT PARK PROJECT

Roscommon County Council is pleased to announce the final non-statutory Public Engagement Event for the proposed Hodson Bay Waterfront Park, a transformative tourism and recreation initiative set along the scenic shores of Lough Ree at Hodson Bay.

This event follows the public consultation held in October 2025, during which feedback was received from residents, stakeholders, and visitors on the proposed design options for the Project. This feedback has played a key role in informing the selection of the optimum design for this ambitious €30 million development. The project is being delivered in partnership with Waterways Ireland and supported by Fáilte Ireland under the EU Just Transition Fund –Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

EVENT DETAILS:

DATE: 22nd April 2026

TIME: 2 pm to 7 pm

LOCATION: The Hodson Bay Hotel FORMAT: Drop-in information Session

FEEDBACK: In person at the event, by completing online community survey or by email to regeneration@roscommoncoco.ie

PROJECT PROPOSALS:

• A continuous promenade along the shoreline to enhance public access and visitor experience.

• Expansion of the existing marina to accommodate up to 50 additional berths.

• A new water sports pavilion with amenities including showers, toilets, and a café.

• A revised access and mobility strategy promoting pedestrianfriendly and sustainable transport options.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:

Roscommon County Council & Waterways Ireland invites all interested parties to attend the consultation, view the plans, and share their views on the preferred design. Feedback from this event will inform the final design which will move forward through the statutory planning process.

For more information on the consultation process & for regular updates on the project, visit: Roscommon County Council website using the weblink or QR Code below: https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/coco/en/services/ tourism/eujtf-projects/hodson-bay-waterfront-park/

The Hodson Bay Waterfront Project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, through the EU Just Transition Fund.

Liam Farrell case enters new phase as remains exhumed

The investigation into the death of Liam Farrell has entered a major new phase following the exhumation of his remains last Friday, April 10th, as part of a renewed Garda inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the Rooskey man’s death in January 2020.

The operation was carried out at Cloonmorris Cemetery, Bornacoola, by members of the Garda Technical Bureau under an order granted by Minister for Justice

Jim O’Callaghan. Chief State Pathologist Professor Linda Mulligan was present, and Mr Farrell’s remains were then taken to Dublin for further forensic examination.

Mr Farrell, who was 87, was found unresponsive to the rear of his home near Rooskey village on January 12th, 2020, after spending time in Reynolds’ Pub and later The Weir Lodge. Gardaí have renewed their appeal to anyone who was in ei-

ther venue, or who may have seen Mr Farrell walking home shortly after 12.15 am, to come forward. The case was also featured on RTÉ’s Crimecall on March 30th as part of the latest effort to generate new information.

For the Farrell family, the exhumation represents the most significant development in a campaign for answers that has now stretched beyond six years. An inquest in late 2024

returned an open verdict. In February 2025, a peer review of the original Garda investigation was completed and sent to then-Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, while the family subsequently met senior Gardaí and continued to press for further action. In April 2025, they were told that 23 recommendations had arisen from that review and that fresh lines of inquiry would be pursued.

The case has also become a matter of wider public interest because of questions raised about the original handling of the investigation. It emerged at inquest that the pathologist who carried out the original postmortem had not been informed that the death was being treated as suspicious and that a crime scene had been declared.

That issue, combined with the family’s long-standing concerns, has sharpened attention on the

importance of thorough early investigative procedures in deaths where the circumstances are unclear.

Gardaí have said the review remains active and ongoing under the Serious Crime Review Team. For the Farrell family, and for many beyond them, the hope now is that this latest forensic step will finally bring greater clarity to a case that has cast a long shadow across the wider region.

Fuel protests ease after Government unveils fresh supports package

Reaction remains sharply divided

After almost a week of demonstrations, fuel protests that began on Tuesday, April 7th, have eased, but the political and economic fallout continues. The demonstrations, led largely by farmers, hauliers and contractors angered by soaring fuel costs, spread from rolling convoys and road blockades to major pressure points in the national supply chain, including Whitegate Refinery, Shannon Foynes Port, the Port of Galway and central Dublin.

By Friday, April 10th, the National Emergency Coordination Group said the blockades were threatening supply chains, public transport and emergency services, with more than 100 filling stations already out of supply and the number expected to rise sharply.

The Government had already previously announced an initial €250m package on March 24th in response to rising energy costs linked to conflict in the Middle East. That earlier intervention included a 15 cent per litre reduction on petrol, a 20 cent cut on auto diesel, a 3 cent cut on marked gas oil, a temporary NORA levy reduction, an extension of the fuel allowance season by four weeks, and an increase in the diesel rebate for licensed hauliers and bus operators. Ministers said at the time that the question of the need for further action would remain under review.

As protests continued, emergency services and health services reportedly came under pressure. The NECG said fire services were forced to curtail non-essential activity in order to preserve fuel, while ambulance transfers and routine transport services were affected. The HSE also warned that people were missing scheduled appointments, including some for critical care, because of fuel shortages and disruption on the roads.

Following further talks with representative bodies over the weekend, the Government announced a new package on Sunday, April 12th, widely reported as being worth about €505m when combined with the earlier measures. The latest intervention included a further 10 cent reduction

in excise on petrol and diesel, a further 2.4 cent reduction on green diesel, an extension of the temporary excise changes and NORA levy reduction until July 31st, and a deferral of the planned May 1st carbon tax increase until the Budget in October.

The Government also announced a new Road Transporters Support Scheme, with payments backdated to March for qualifying haulage and coach operators, and a €100m Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme for farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers covering March to the end of July.

By Monday, the motorway network was

largely clear, but the after-effects of the protests remained significant. There were reports that some 650 fuel stations were still without petrol or diesel, underlining how deeply the blockades had affected distribution, even after protests were stood down or cleared. That lingering disruption has shaped much of the debate around the Government’s response: while many accepted that movement had finally come, there was no consensus on whether it came fast enough or went far enough. Reaction from the sectors most directly affected has been mixed. In a statement,

ICSA Rural Development chair Edmond Phelan said the package “falls short of on-farm reality”, arguing that the scale of fuel inflation on farms and in contracting cannot be matched by the level of relief now on offer. He said that although deferring the carbon tax rise was practical, the wider package remained “little more than a sticking plaster over a gaping wound” when set against soaring green diesel, fertiliser and contractor costs. FTA Ireland (Freight Transport Association Ireland) said Government-led talks had been productive and that the proposed transport

support framework represented tangible progress for operators trying to keep supply chains moving, even as it warned that disruption to critical infrastructure had “made an already difficult situation worse”.

Other responses sat somewhere between welcome and warning. The Irish Road Haulage Association described the outcome of negotiations as a fair and balanced package that would help mitigate the worst effects of rising fuel prices on haulage, while Macra na Feirme said the €100m farming measures were a significant step in the right direction for young farmers, but stressed that delivery now had to be swift and efficient.

Criticism remained strong from several political voices. Roscommon/Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice welcomed the reduction in excise on green diesel and the proposed rebate for farmers and agricultural contractors, but said major gaps remained, especially around how rebates would be claimed, whether smaller receipts would be accepted, and whether parts of construction, plant hire and selfhaulage would be covered. He also criticised the lack of extra help for households dependent on kerosene.

Midlands-North-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly went further, calling the package “too little, too late” and warning that households, hauliers and rural businesses were still facing costs well beyond what the measures would offset. SIPTU, meanwhile, said the Government had failed workers by concentrating relief on business and transport sectors while leaving low- and middle-income households exposed to the wider cost-of-living crisis. The scale of frustration among demonstrators, combined with the significant public support seen across the country, saw the Government move to introduce additional supports. But while the roads have reopened and the immediate supply/ access emergency has eased, the arguments exposed by the protests have not gone away.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned this week that member states must coordinate on energy prices, saying Europe is “paying a very high price” for its “global dependence” on fossil fuels.

POWERHOUSE STUDIO: now open in Roscommon

Stacey Walshe, originally from Ballyleague, has brought her passion for movement and wellness back to her local community after more than a decade abroad. Having spent over 10 years in London, where she trained as a Pilates teacher, Stacey also gained valuable teaching experience in both London and Marbella before returning home to establish her own studio.

Powerhouse Pilates officially opened its doors at the beginning of March, marking an exciting new chapter for Stacey and the local area. Her vision for the studio is rooted in creating a high-quality, welcoming wellness space for a community she deeply cares about. Drawing on her international experience, she has designed a beautifully welcoming environment where people feel inspired, and classes make people feel supported and motivated to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

At the heart of Powerhouse Pilates is a simple but powerful goal: to help people move better, feel stronger, and reconnect with their bodies. Stacey has focused on building a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in her studio, supported by trained and encouraging instructors who make everyone feel part of the Powerhouse community.

The studio offers classes for all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to more advanced participants. With a range of infrared heated classes including Yoga, Pilates, and HIIT, there is something to suit each individual. Everyone can find a class that meets their needs and fitness goals.

Recognition for Roscommon People at Irish Print Awards

The Roscommon People won one award, received three nominations, and was shortlisted in the Newspaper & Freesheet Printer of the Year category at the 47th annual Irish Print Awards.

The gala black-tie event was held last Friday night in the prestigious Clontarf Castle Hotel, on what was an unforgettable evening which saw the very best in Irish print across the island of Ireland being honoured.

In the Newspaper & Freesheet Printer of the Year category, Roscommon People was listed alongside Northside People, Southside People, Irish News and Limerick Leader. That shortlist placed the Roscommon title among some of the bestknown regional publications on the island. The Limerick Leader was the overall winner.

The Roscommon-owned family company was also shortlisted in two individual award categories, underlining a strong showing for Media People Ireland Ltd (publishers of the Roscommon People) in this year’s competition.

Fiona Healy, Director of Media People Ireland, was nominated in the Women Leading in Print category.

Emma Healy of the Roscom-

mon People, one of nine finalists in the Rising Star in Irish Print category, won the Bronze Award.

Emma said: “I’m truly honoured to receive this award. I’m very grateful to Roscommon People for all the support, encouragement, and opportunities I’ve been given.

“I’ve learned so much from be-

ing part of a team that believes in impactful storytelling, championing local businesses, and hard work.

“I’m deeply committed to delivering smart, practical business solutions for SMEs, and celebrating the incredible efforts and success of local people. Thank you to my colleagues, my family, and everyone who has

supported me along the way.”

Celebrating excellence

The Irish Print Awards celebrate excellence across the industry, from newspapers, books and packaging to signage, design, print technology and innovation. Organisers said the awards continue to highlight the resilience

Triest Press wins two national awards at Irish Print Awards 2026

Triest Press, a social enterprise print and design studio based in County Roscommon, has been awarded two prestigious accolades at the Irish Print Awards, securing Silver in Book Binder of the Year and Silver in Women Leading in Print.

The Irish Print Awards celebrate excellence across the print industry, with entries judged by industry experts. Triest Press competed against some of the largest and most established commercial print companies in Ireland, making this achievement particularly significant.

Triest Press’s award for Book Binder of the Year recognises the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each project, while the Women Leading in Print award acknowledges the leadership and innovation driving the organisation forward.

Speaking following the awards, Manager Deborah Tierney said, “We’re incredibly proud of this recognition. What makes it so meaningful is that the judging is blind; the work stands on its own. To be recognised alongside major industry players shows that the quality coming out of Triest Press is truly top tier.

“As a social enterprise, this is about more than awards. It demonstrates that inclusive workplaces can deliver excellence at the highest level. Our team combines creativity, skill, and care in everything they do, and this recognition belongs to all of them.”

These latest awards further cement Triest Press’s position as a leader in both the print industry and the social enterprise sector.

and adaptability of the sector, as well as the high standards being achieved by companies and professionals across the country.

This year’s awards shone a spotlight on the remarkable talent, creativity, and innovation that continue to drive the industry forward.

With 30 categories, judged by a panel of esteemed independ-

ent experts, the competition was more intense than ever.

The Irish Print Awards said:

“A huge congratulations to this year’s winners and finalists! Your dedication and passion keep the print industry thriving, and we are proud to celebrate your achievements. Here’s to another year of excellence in print.”

THE BEST OF TIMES…

on TOUR in NewYork Roscommon

Seamus Duke’s

New York diary

THome from home in Big Apple

here was a time when I really looked forward to any trip I was making to New York. After all, there’s always been something magical about the Big Apple.

However, over the last few months I found it hard to get excited about this excursion. Maybe it’s the very negative coverage of life in the USA under Donald Trump, or maybe it had something to do with the many stories coming out of the city indicating that New York had become almost unaffordable for the average visitor.

So, my expectations were low. Yet, from the moment we arrived in New York last week, the city felt as energetic and compelling as ever. Before we travelled there was some drama, with the fuel protests (then in their infancy) meaning we set off for Shannon Airport two hours earlier than we otherwise would have (just in case). It proved a wise decision as there was a blockage on the M18 (just minutes after we passed Junction 11).

At the airport, there were Rossies everywhere you looked. There were two flights out that day, both of which were packed with Roscommon fans. Shannon was a dream to pass through. We flew into Newark, travelling into the city on a train (for just 12 dollars).

I was staying on 23rd Street. The hotel room had been organised by Jimmy Glynn, a Dunmore man who runs Jake’s Saloon, which is next door to the hotel. I was going to the Roscommon GAA presentation to Tom Hunt that (Thursday) night, and the venue was a fair distance away. Having stood me a couple of drinks, Jimmy Glynn brought me across the road and ensured I got the correct subway train. Over the weekend Jimmy and his staff could not have been any more generous.

Shannonside’s Willie Hegarty and his wife Dympna were in the same hotel, as were Ian Cooney (Roscommon Herald), wellknown GAA figures Pat Compton and Shane Galvin, and of course several other Rossies. It was great to meet Tom Hunt and his family. Tom is a man who is not fond of the limelight but the night was a fitting tribute to his huge contribution to Roscommon GAA over the years.

Into Friday, and one began to fully realise just how many Roscommon people had travelled over. Pubs like Connolly’s, Malone’s, The Keg Room, Blake’s Tavern, Jake’s Saloon, 5th&MAD, and The Westbury – to name just a few city centre establishments – were teeming with people in primrose and blue colours. In all cases the food being served was top class. The prices? A bottle of beer (or a pint) cost in the region of 10 dollars. You would certainly pay more in Temple Bar, and perhaps in certain other pubs in Dublin too.

A constant backdrop to the weekend was the US Masters. The golf was being shown in every pub and restaurant. We spent a couple of hours watching it in The Westbury on Saturday, and it was fantastic entertainment as Shane Lowry (with a holein-one) and Rory McIlroy competed at the top of the leaderboard.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere in any pubs we called to was fantastic. On Friday night we headed to 5th&MAD, owned by Ballinameen man Kieran Keaveney. The Club Rossie event there attracted well in excess of 500 people. It’s a very impressive premises.

This was reminiscent of being at a county final in Hyde Park. You knew everyone. On stage, Willie Hegarty chatted to Derek Duggan, Paul Earley and Davy Neary. Ivan Connaughton ran a very successful auction and there was lots of finger food available. The Rossies had really landed.

There was even better to come. On Saturday morning, hundreds upon hundreds of Roscommon fans answered the call to gather in Times Square for a commemorative photograph. It was incredible to experience this event, the supporters absolutely buzzing in the sunshine.

Just in case any Rossies were getting carried away, I noted an exchange between two American men. One looked at the other.

“What’s going on here?”

His friend replied: “Looks like a Ukrainian protest”.

“Ah, okay” said the first man – and they went about their business. We are not as well known as we might like to think!

Early on Sunday morning there were many fire brigade sirens blaring. It’s a regular occurrence in New York, but the familiar fire engine sounds seemed more frequent than usual. Not having initially passed much heed, I got some shock when I looked out the window to see the street outside blocked, numerous fire engines present and a couple of hundred firefighters attending a fire in a building not 50 yards away. Thankfully it was unoccupied, but it was totally destroyed. No one was injured. Just another day in the city!

The weather was a gift all weekend, with brilliant sunshine each day. On Sunday, the crowds were out at Gaelic Park from midday. When the game was over, the fans milled about out on the astroturf pitch. An aspect of the scene that struck me was the number

From the moment we arrived in New York last week, the city felt as energetic and compelling as ever.

of families that had made the trip. Young children played in the sunshine as their parents chatted with friends and family. It was a super sight.

On the negative side, Gaelic Park is not a very suitable venue for a big game. The toilet facilities were almost non-existent (there were long queues for same all day).

After the game, people adjourned to various watering holes, most of them anxious to catch the end of the Masters and that dramatic win by Rory McIlroy. It was a great finale to the weekend.

There is a doubt as to whether or not this fixture will continue into the future. There are compelling reasons why it should cease, including the cost of sending a team over. Another factor is the likelihood of the game being almost a non-event, given the gap in playing standards. Still, if you asked the 2,500 or so Roscommon people (a conservative estimate) that travelled last week, I’d say they would go again next year if they could. That sort of positivity has to be a plus.

A personal thanks to Jimmy Glynn, the Cooney brothers, everyone in Club Rossie and the Roscommon and New York GAA boards for their kindness and help over the weekend. Thanks also to my colleague Michael Finan who pulled out all the stops in his photographic/social media coverage for the Roscommon People.

New York? My fondness for the city has certainly returned. I’ll be back!

on TOUR in NewYork Roscommon

RORY DOLAN’S (YONKERS).

on TOUR in NewYork Roscommon

on TOUR in NewYork Roscommon

on TOUR in NewYork Roscommon

Tom Hunt honoured at special New York celebration

Pitch at Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence to bear his name in recognition of a decade of support

Roscommon GAA paid tribute to one of its most dedicated and influential supporters, Tom Hunt, at a special celebration held in the American Irish Historical Society on Fifth Avenue in New York on Thursday last, April 9th.

The event, which coincided with Roscommon’s Connacht Championship fixture against New York, recognised Tom Hunt’s outstanding contribution to Roscommon GAA over the past decade, as well as his lifelong connection to the county, both on and off the field.

A former inter-county player with deep roots in Roscommon football, Tom has remained a steadfast supporter of the county throughout his life in the United States, where he founded Ranger Pipelines in San Francisco after working on major construction and pipeline projects from Dallas to Alaska.

Tom was presented with a framed photograph of the Roscommon teams that secured historic All-Ireland Senior Football Championship titles in 1943 and 1944. Roscommon GAA also announced that one of the pitches at the planned Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence will carry Tom Hunt’s name, ensuring that his contribution will be recognised by generations of players, both male and female, who will train and compete at the facility in the decades ahead.

The celebration brought together a distinguished gathering of Roscommon supporters and friends. In attendance were Tom, his wife Mary and family, alongside the current Rose of Roscommon, Rebecca Collins, and Róisín Hunt, Tom’s niece, who previously represented San Francisco in the Rose of Tralee.

Roscommon GAA County Board, left) makes a special presentation to Tom and Mary Hunt in recognition of their support of Roscommon football.

Jason Sherlock, who is one of the coaches of the Roscommon senior football team, gave his perspective on the importance of the GAA and the energy and enthusiasm he has encountered since getting involved with Roscommon GAA.

The event was also attended by representatives of the American Friends of Roscommon GAA, including Padraig McBrien, Jerry Padian and Shane Naughton, as well as a large number of

Roscommon supporters based in the United States, including Kieran Keaveney of 5th&MAD (bar), Tom Bennett and many others who continue to champion the county from abroad.

A decade of transformation

The evening echoed a landmark gathering held in the same venue in 2016, when Roscommon GAA last travelled to New York,

a moment widely regarded as a turning point in the county’s modern development. At that time, Roscommon faced significant financial pressure, but the support shown that night provided critical momentum.

Since then, Roscommon GAA has undergone a remarkable transformation. Club Rossie, the county’s fundraising arm, has raised over €6m. The county has won Connacht senior titles in 2017 and 2019, claimed Connacht U-20 championships in 2021 and 2024, and re-established itself as a consistent Division One county.

Off the field, the redevelopment of King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park has been completed, and 24 acres of land have been secured in Roscommon Town for the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence.

A family rooted in Roscommon GAA

Tom Hunt comes from a family embedded in Roscommon GAA. He played with Roscommon CBS, Roscommon minors, Roscommon Gaels and Roscommon senior championship teams in the 1970s.

Speaking at the event, Chairperson of Roscommon GAA, Thomas Murray, said: “Tom’s support has never been about recognition. It has been about ensuring that Roscommon GAA continues to grow and thrive. His generosity and belief in the county have played a key role in the progress we have made over the past decade. Tonight is an opportunity to say thank you to Tom, Mary, and their family for the lasting impact they have made.”

Looking ahead

The event also marked the launch of two forward-looking initiatives: Club Rossie International, which aims to build a sustained network of global business members, and the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence Legacy Programme, which offers naming and sponsorship opportunities within the planned facility.

Roscommon hospitality sector celebrates success at regional restaurant awards

High level of standards of care found at Sacred Heart Hospital

Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon has been found to have a high level of compliance with care regulations following an unannounced inspection by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). The report, published on April 15th, 2026, relates to an inspection carried out on November 21st, 2025, at the HSE-run residential centre for older people.

Sacred Heart Hospital currently provides residential and respite care for 49 adults across two self-contained units. The facility includes communal living spaces, accessible gardens, and on-site physiotherapy and occupational therapy facilities, while a dedicated activities therapy team provides a daily programme of arts, exercise and social activities.

According to the report, the inspector observed a warm, relaxed and person-centred environment, where residents were supported to enjoy a good quality of life, make

choices in their daily routines, and felt safe and well cared for.

Residents who spoke with inspectors said they felt safe and comfortable raising concerns with staff. One resident said: “You would not get better care anywhere else.”

The report also noted that staff showed strong familiarity with residents and their individual needs, and that there was good access to GP and allied health supports, including dietetics and speech and language therapy services.

Of the 15 regulations assessed during the inspection, 12 were found to be fully compliant, with the remaining three judged to be substantially compliant.

In response, a compliance plan was submitted to HIQA outlining measures taken to address the small areas identified for improvement.

These actions included addressing cross-contamination risks in storage areas by removing clinical items and updating staff proce-

dures, improving care plan documentation relating to a resident with a multidrug-resistant organism, and installing bedside shelving in St Michael’s Ward to provide additional storage for personal belongings.

The HSE also said insufficient storage in St Michael’s Unit had been addressed through decluttering, removing items from floors, separating clinical and non-clinical materials, briefing staff on updated procedures, and providing extra storage for activity items and decorations.

Welcoming the publication of the report, HSE West and North West said it remains committed to ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care to residents at Sacred Heart Hospital.

The Sacred Heart findings formed part of a wider HIQA publication of 50 inspection reports on residential centres for older people.

A number of Roscommon food and hospitality businesses were among the winners at the Connacht regional final of the Irish Restaurant Awards 2026, held at the Knockranny House Hotel on Tuesday, March 31st. The awards recognised leading restaurants, cafés, pubs and hospitality professionals from across the province.

The Old Stone House Restaurant in Ballinlough enjoyed one of the standout nights for the county, taking the Roscommon title for Best Restaurant as well as the county award for Best Wine Experience.

Other major category winners included Coffey’s in Lecarrow, which was named Pub of the Year, Kilronan Castle, which won Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant, and Rogue & Co Café in Roscommon Town, which took the Best Café title. Several Roscommon businesses collected more than one award on the night. My Kitchen By Sham Hanifa in Cortober saw Sinead Toolan recognised as the county’s Best Chef, while the business also won for Best Sustainable Practices. Regan’s Gastro Pub & Restaurant in Roscommon Town was honoured in the Best Gastro Pub and

newsbriefs

Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine categories, while Maki Sushi picked up awards for Best World Cuisine and Best Use of Social Media.

There was further recognition for service and individual achievement. The Abbey Hotel was named the county winner for Best Customer Service, while Theresa Donlon of Hester’s Golden Eagle Bar & Restaurant received the Employee Excellence award. Elsewhere, Navrish Audit of Keenan’s Hotel Bar & Restaurant was named Best Restaurant Manager for Roscommon.

Other county winners included The Purple Onion Kitchen for Best Casual Dining, Cox’s Bistro and Café for Best Newcomer, Zunu Bakehouse for Innovator of the Year, and Benny O’Connell of Benny’s Deli, who was recognised as Local Food Hero.

The Irish Restaurant Awards are now in their 17th year. The awards programme begins with a public vote before moving through regional judging stages and on to the All-Ireland final, which is due to take place at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin, on May 18th.

Spring clean-up in Ballagh, Kilrooskey

A Spring clean-up takes place this weekend in Ballagh, Kilrooskey. Bags can be collected from Frank on 087 2656401 and left back by midweek next week for collection. Thank you.

New volunteers needed for Kilteevan Tidy Towns

Thanks to a small number of dedicated community stalwarts, Kilteevan Tidy Towns is now in its 11th year. This valuable initiative has placed Kilteevan firmly on the map. In order to continue, more people in the community are needed to lend a hand. Opportunities are flexible, ranging from weekly clean-ups, adopting a road or a flower bed, pollinator friendly planting, biodiversity initiatives, peatland restoration, natural heritage, climate change initiatives, and sustainable development initiatives. Young people with project ideas and suggestions are most welcome. Interested parties are free to opt for just one job suited to your skills and ability, to do in your own time. Kilteevan Tidy

are an open and inclusive group. If interested, drop in to the Tidy Towns

A major ‘Fáilte Romhat’

you!

at 7 pm on Tuesday, April 21st, for a

Easter Commemoration ceremony at IRA monument

A

and the 1916 Proclamation was read by Tom

Thomas Cull laid a wreath on behalf of the Republican movement.

This year marks the centenary of the foundation of the County Ro-

scommon Easter Commemoration Committee. Every year since 1926, the committee have endeavoured to remember and honour the fallen volunteers and civilians who died during the troubled years. It was this same committee that were responsible for the erection of the impressive memorial at Shankill.

Mountplunkett, Lecarrow, County Roscommon.

Sale closed at Sheehy Meares Team Earley of residence at Lecarrow

The auctioneers extend congratulations and best wishes to the new owners. Sheehy Meares Team Earley are now seeking similar houses in the south Roscommon area for disappointed underbidders.

Sale closed at Sheehy Meares Team Earley of Castleplunkett residence

Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares

Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of a bungalow residence located at Raveege, Castleplunkett, County Roscommon (F45XW77).

The well-maintained four-bedroomed bungalow is discreetly set back from the road and resting on approximately two acres of land. The property includes a private driveway, practical storage sheds (incorporating 3-bay barn with lean tos off and storage shed), and beautifully land-

scaped lawns, providing an inviting setting. Congratulations and best wishes are extended to the new owners.

Sheehy Meares Team Earley are now urgently seeking similar houses in the Castleplunkett, Ballintubber and Castlerea areas for disappointed underbidders.

For further details, please contact Keith at Sheehy Meares Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or 086 0848590, and/or email info@sheehymeares.ie

the

For further details, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, Cormac 086 3519492, email info@sheehymeares.ie or log onto www.sheehymeares.ie

Castleplunkett, County Roscommon

CATTLE SALE

FRIDAY

Athlone to host FBD Hall of Fame Awards

The FBD National Hall of Fame Awards will take place at the Sheraton Hotel in Athlone on May 3rd, marking 22 years of recognising people from Ireland’s bovine, equine and ovine sectors for their service and contribution to their respective breed societies. First held in Athlone in 2003, the awards continue to acknowledge individuals involved in livestock breeding, agri-business and related industries. FBD Insurance is the title sponsor, with Herdwatch sponsoring the

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300

Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

MONDAY WEEKLY:

• ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED.

• ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M.

• 3 RINGS IN OPERATION

• VIEWING AT 10 A.M.

bovine section, Kepak sponsoring the ovine section, and Horse Sport Ireland sponsoring the equine section. Other sponsors include Cormac Tagging, Certified Irish Angus Producer Group, Aurivo/Homeland, Bord Bia and the Irish Farmers Journal.

This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to John O’Sullivan, chairman of the Hodson Bay Group, in recognition of his contribution to industry and hospitality.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Cattle: There was a good entry of stock on o er at the sale held on Friday, April 3rd, with a strong trade for both bullocks and stripper cows. There was a large attendance of customers at the ringside, with online bidders also very active. Bullocks achieved an average of €4.46 per kilo up to €5.63 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.06 per kilo up to €3.97 per kilo. Dry cows, sample prices: LMX – 770KG - €3060€3.97 per kg, CHX – 770KG - €2790 - €3.62 per kg, AUX – 785KG - €2570 - €3.27 per kg, HEX - 535KG - €1770 - €3.31 per kg, BBX - 710KG - €1700 - €2.39 per kg, and FRX - 440KG - €840 - €1.91 per kg.

Bullocks, sample prices: CHX - 710KG - €3400€4.79 per kg, BBX – 805KG - €3240 - €4.02 per kg, LMX - 750KG - €3200 - €4.27 per kg, PTX - 725KG - €2980 - €4.11 per kg, CH – 580KG - €2640 - €4.55 per kg, SIX – 595KG - €2560 - €4.30 per kg, andCHX – 805KG - €3300 - €4.10 per kg.

Organic cattle: There was a good entry of stock on o er at the organic cattle sale held on Saturday, April 4th, with a strong trade for all cattle. There was a good attendance of customers at the ringside, with online bidders also active.

Bullocks ranged from an average of €5.33 per kilo up to €6.91 per kilo. Weanling bulls ranged from an average of €5.36 per kilo up to €6.33 per kilo. Heifers ranged from an average of €4.98 per kilo up to €6.79 per kilo, and weanling heifers ranged from an average of €4.81 per kilo up to €5.30 per kilo.

Bullocks, sample prices: CHX -530KG - €2640 -

€4.98 per kg, LMX - 486KG - €2560- €5.26 per kg, AAX - 515KG - €2300 - €4.57 per kg, HEX – 575KG - €2130 - €3.70 per kg, SIX – 590KG - €2600 – €4.41 per kg, and CHX - 325KG - €2200 - €6.71 per kg.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: LMX - 380KG€1800 - €4.74 per kg, and SAX – 245KG - €1550 - €6.33 per kg.

Heifers, sample prices: LMX - 350KG - €2280 - €6.51 per kg, SIX – 520KG - €2900 - €5.58 per kg, CHX495KG - €2550 - €5.15 per kg, AUX -530KG - €2220 - €4.19 per kg, BA – 375KG - €1850 - €4.93 per kg, and HEX - 370KG - €1960 - €5.30 per kg.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: LMX - 500KG - €2200 - €4.40 per kg, and SAX - 290KG - €1450€5.00 per kg.

Sheep: There was a good entry of sheep on o er at the sale held on Wednesday, April 8th. Prices for hoggets made up to €250, while stag ewes topped out at €288.

Sheep sales continue on Wednesdays. The yard opens at 8 am, and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Please note all sheep must be tagged with a full yellow EID tag set. The sale can be viewed live on marteye.ie.

Hoggets, sample prices: 96kgs - €250 - €2.6 per kg, 40.3kgs - €205 - €5.09 per kg, 53.5kgs - €228€4.26 per kg, 51.2kgs - €223 - €4.36 per kg, 50.6kgs - €219 - €4.33 per kg, and 51.6kgs- €216- €4.19 per kg.

Cast ewes, sample prices: 88kgs - €288 - €3.27 per kg, 80.7kgs - €254 - €3.15 per kg, 100kgs - €250 - €2.50 per kg, 95kgs - €240 - €2.53 per kg, 77kgs

Castlerea MART WATCH

Cattle: There were 700 lots presented for sale on Thursday, April 9th, and despite no improvement in weather conditions or grass growth, a good trade prevailed for all categories of stock presented.

The heifer ring recorded €5.72 a kilo for the top quality stores, with heavier lots making up to €2730. The weanling rings, with both farmers and exporters anxious for stock, recorded €7.29 a kilo for the bulls, with the heifer weanlings hitting €7.89 a kilo. Dry cows peaked at €2760, cows with calves at foot hitting €3110, while springers made up to €2520. Dairy cows made up to €1900, while the calf ring once again recorded an excellent clearance, with exporters and farmers competing for lots.

Heifers, sample prices: Ch 400kgs €1960, Lm 375kgs €1900, Ch 375kgs €1840, Hex 425kgs €1720, Ch 435kgs €2490, Ch 485kgs €2470, Lm 440kgs €2310, Ch 650kgs €2730, and Ch 500kgs €2540.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 255kgs €1860, Ch 260kgs €1790, Ch 235kgs €1680, Lm 265kgs €1420, Ch 360kgs €2320, Ch 375kgs €2220, Ch 340kgs €2180, Lm 480kgs

€2530, Ch 300kgs €1980, Lm 375kgs €2050, Ch 370kgs €1930, and Lm 400kgs €2150.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Lm 290kgs

€1560, Lm 260kgs €1480, Lm 390kgs €3080, Ch 350kgs €2200, Ch 345kgs €2080, Ch 345kgs €2080, Ch 335kgs €1930, Ch 420kgs €2280, and Ch 405kgs €2050.

Dry cows, sample prices: AA bull 1120kgs €3560, Lmx 665kgs €2760, Ch 695kgs €2760, Lm 695kgs €2680, BBX 720kgs €2590, AA 435kgs €1420, Fr 418kgs €1070. Cows with calves at foot made from €2500 to €3110, with springers making up to €2550, and dairy cows hit €1900. Young calves made from €110 to €680, while runners made from €710 to €1780 for continentals.

Bullocks: There were over 100 lots on o er at the bullock sale held on Monday, April 6th .

Quality stores made up to €5.30 a kilo with heavier lots making up to €2900.

Sample prices: Ch 475kgs €2430, AA 480kgs €2340, Ch 455kgs €2280, Lm 545kgs €2890, Sim 540kgs €2600, Ch 500kgs €2400, Lm 560kgs €2650, Lm 595kgs €2760, Ch 620kgs €2900, Ch 605kgs €2810, and Shx 610kgs €2740.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Mondays with the weekly bullock sale and on Thursdays with the weekly sale of heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings. All sale commence at 11 am.

The Farmers Oscar Award will go to Dr Dan Ryan of Fermoy, founder of ScanInsights, in recognition of his work combining bovine reproductive experience with AI ultrasound technology. The award is sponsored by Cormac Tagging.

A total of 23 nominees from the bovine, equine and ovine industries are to be honoured at the event, where awards will be presented by Michael Berkery, chairman of FBD Trust.

Focus on breeding performance at Newford Open Day

 CATHERINE EGAN

(Beef Specialist, Teagasc)

A suckler cow breeding event will take place on Wednesday, April 22nd at 4 pm at Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm in Scrine, Roscommon.

This practical, on-farm event offers valuable insights for farmers aiming to improve herd performance while reducing labour demands through smarter breeding and management practices.

With the breeding season fast approaching, it is ideally timed for farmers looking to fine-tune their approach, particularly those considering artificial insemination (AI).

A central theme of the day will be breeding efficiency, with a strong focus on genetics. Farmers will gain a clear understanding of the terminal sires being used to deliver both performance and profitability.

Speakers from Teagasc, Dawn Meats and the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation will outline how good management, nutrition, grassland management and careful planning can improve breeding performance. The use of synchronisation programmes to breed replacement heifers calving at 24 months will also be discussed.

Body condition scoring and nutrition planning will feature strongly, highlighting their role in improving fertility and overall herd efficiency.

Fertility management and heat detection technologies will be demonstrated, showing how modern tools can reduce labour while improving accuracy. Compact calving and improved handling facilities will also be showcased as ways to reduce workload and improve safety.

Grazed grass remains the cheapest feed, and the event will highlight how efficient utilisation is achieved through early turnout, good soil fertility, strong infrastructure and the use of clover.

Speaking ahead of the event, Newford farm manager Shane McGuinness said, “Using AI allows farmers to access superior genetics and tailor breeding to the farm’s goals, while also reducing the need for handling bulls on-farm and increasing overall efficiency and labour productivity.”

There will also be industry stakeholder stands where farmers can meet and ask questions. Organised as a joint initiative between Teagasc, Dawn Meats and McDonald’s, the event offers an opportunity to engage directly with experts.

For further details, see teagasc. ie/event/newford-open-day/.

Healy-Rae resigns as Minister of State

Kerry independent TD Michael Healy-Rae told the Dáil on Tuesday that he will vote no confidence in the Government and will tender his resignation as a Minister of State.

Healy-Rae had been engaged as Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, with responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture.

The development came during Tuesday’s confidence debate in the Dáil, which followed intense political fallout from the Government’s handling of the recent fuel protests. The Government tabled its own confidence motion in response to Sinn Féin’s noconfidence move.

Deputy Healy-Rae said he had listened to workers and people who had “soldiered with me over the years” before deciding on his position. His intervention was a significant moment in the debate, given his role within Government as a junior minister. It also adds fresh political pressure at a time when the coalition is seeking to steady itself after days of public anger over rising fuel costs and protest disruption.

WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL

Scrine, Athleague, Co Roscommon 4 PM EIRCODE: F42 AH57 EM NSTRATION

DEMONSTRATION FARM OPEN DAY IMPROVING HERD PERFORMANCE AND REDUCING LABOUR through smarter tools and practices

Walk away with clear, practical strategies for improving your suckler herd:

Genetics that Work:

Fertility & AI: Heat detection, timing and management for compact calving

First Calf by 24 Months: Targets & tactics

Feed Smart, Score Right: Body condition scoring & nutrition plans g

Road signs neglect sending us in wrong direction – Scahill

Immediate attention is needed to deal with the deteriorating condition of road signs around the country, a Fine Gael senator has said.

Senator Gareth Scahill said: “Many signs remain damaged and pointing in the wrong direction after Storm Éowyn last year. However, this extends beyond storm damage with road signs suffering from poor maintenance, with many obscured and difficult to read.

“There’s another busy tourism season coming this summer, and it is essential that signs are visible, legible and pointing in the right direction.

“Local authorities

need to be encouraged to make an extra effort in the coming months.

This is a matter of road safety,” Senator Scahill added.

He said the issue goes beyond signage, pointing to the worsening condition of road markings and the growing number of potholes on regional and local roads.

“Faded road markings are becoming a serious hazard, particularly at night and during poor weather. Centre lines, stop lines and pedestrian crossings are disappearing in many areas, leaving drivers without the guidance they rely on.

“Potholes damage ve-

hicles, disrupt transport for businesses and create dangerous conditions for cyclists and motorcyclists.”

Senator Scahill called for a coordinated approach led by the Department of Transport to ensure consistency and safety around the country’s roads.

“Clear and accurate road signage is a basic requirement for road safety,” Senator Scahill said. “This goes hand in hand with well-maintained road markings and safe road surfaces. It’s vital for communities, businesses, and tourists who rely on the country’s road network.”

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For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

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CONCRETE: Kerbing, Paving, Patios, Concrete Slabs and Base, Stone Walls and Plastering

DIGGER: Foundations, Land Drainage, Ditch and Hedge removal

STEEL: Sheds, Gates, Cattle Crushes and Pens, all Welding repairs available

OLD HOUSE RENOVATIONS: All house renovations covered C2 Registered & Insured. FREE QUOTATIONS

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

MURRAY

Anthony Scrine, Athleague (6th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 14th April 2020.

R.I.P.

Deep are the memories precious they stay, no passing of time can take them away.

Always remembered by Evelyn, James, David, Mary, Sarah, Shane, Hailey, Lena, Amelia, Ben and Charlotte.

Mass takes place on Saturday 18th of April at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague

FEATHERSTON

Tom and Margaret Ballinapark, Donamon (34th & 19th Anniversary)

Who passed away on 19th April 1992 and 28th February 2007

JUDGE

Tom Antogher Road, Roscommon Town (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tom who passed away on 21st April 2020.

You went away so suddenly no time to say goodbye. In our hearts lie memories of a beloved husband and father we loved so much and will never forget.

Always loved and sadly missed by his wife Mary, daughters Siobhán, Deirdre and son-inlaw Ian.

Anniversary Mass for Tom will be held in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Tuesday, 21st April at 11am.

GRADY (née Goode)

Bridie Ballincurry, Glinsk, Co. Galway. (4th Anniversary)

Who passed away on April 22nd, 2022

HANNON Paddy

Ardsallagh, Roscommon Town, Roscommon.

We, Paddy’s family – Maura, Ursula, Clare, Damien, Audrey, Andrew, Alan, Siobhan, nieces, nephews and beloved extended family – would like to share our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported and carried him and us through his short illness and this devastating time.

To our extended family and Paddy’s wonderful friends, who were by his side and ours during his nal days and Funeral. We are eternally grateful for your friendship, support and kindness.

Thank you to our neighbours, friends and community for your enormous support – for visiting Paddy in hospital, for your calls, your visits to the house and the hotel, your cards, your kind wishes and for all who joined us for his reposal, Funeral –both in-person and online – and for the many kind messages of condolence. There are no words to express our gratitude.

Thank you to the sta of the High Dependency Ward, St Geards Ward and Professor Collins and his team in University Hospital Galway, who took exceptional care of him and showed such compassion and humanity.

Thank you to Fr Kevin Fallon and Fr Joe Fitzgerald for the beautiful mass and celebration of Paddy’s life; to Aileen, Ellen and Clodagh for the lovely music and singing; to Damien Cummins for his kind words in his beautiful eulogy.

RAFTERY Fionán

Hyde Court, Roscommon Who passed away on the 18th of April, 2011 (15th Anniversary)

Sometimes when we first awake, we think that you’re still here, and for a fleeting moment the clouds all disappear. For you brought endless sunshine, until you went away and now we miss you desperately each minute of the day. You would not like to see us sad, so what we try to do, is live a bright and happy life in memory of you. For though we always miss you and it’s dreadful being apart, we haven’t really lost you, you’re still here in our hearts.

www.brianmuraystone.com

FALLON

Teresa

Ballagh, Kilrooskey, Roscommon and formerly of Crossmaglen, Armagh

In loving memory of Teresa who passed away on 7th April 2022 (4th Anniversary)

In our Hearts

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

Sadly missed and loved by her husband Frank and children Niall, Frank, David, Patrick and Aisling.

Also remembering deceased members of the Casey and Fallon families. Anniversary Mass will be held on Satuday, 18th of April at 7.30pm in Ballagh Church.

BRENNAN

In our hearts

You will always stay Loved and remembered every day

Loved and sadly missed by their family.

Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Saturday, 18th April at 7.00pm

MURRAY

Lawrence Kilclough, Newbridge (15th Anniversary)

We will never forget the day you passed away, The way time stood still for us. But the world kept on going The way our hearts learned a new kind of sadness.

That day lives in our minds as before and as after, of the life we once knew we were forced to live.

And our hearts still beat, But not the same as it once did.

by

Just a prayer from the family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, because we thought the world of you.

Loved and sadly missed every day by her husband, Mickey, sons and daughters, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, April 19th at 10am in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk.

Thank you to the Funeral Directors Pat & Gillian Smyth and John Smith for their sensitivity, professionalism and empathy throughout the Funeral and to Brian O’Rourke who prepared Paddy’s Resting Place.

Thank you to the fantastic team at the hotel for the care and hospitality at his Funeral and to Paddy himself over the years.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a sincere expression of our gratitude. A mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Paddy’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 19th April at 11.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

LEONARD

William & Ann

Creemully, Castlecoote, Co.Roscommon. (33rd & 29th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of our father William who passed away on the 8th April 1993, and of our mother Ann who passed away on the 15th February 1997. Rest In Peace. No matter how life changes, No matter what we do, A special place within our hearts, Is always there for you.

Lovingly remembered by Anna Mae, Bridie, Liam and Pauline. Anniversary Mass in The Church of Assumption, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon on Sunday, April 19th at 11.30am.

Loved and sadly missed by your wife Helen, children Claire, Sean, Niamh and Jack, son-in-law Keith and grandchildren Finn and Fiadh.

Mass is being o ered.

DOLAN

Seamus

Ballybride, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Seamus who died on 17th April, 2023

Gone are the days we used to share, But in our hearts you are always there. The gates of memory will never close, We miss you more than anyone knows. With tender love and deep regret, We who loved you will never forget.

Sadly missed by his wife Mary and family.

Anniversary Mass in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 18th April at 10am.

(nee Egan)

Anne

Corskeagh, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Anne who passed away on the 26th April 2018 (8th Anniversary)

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

Loved and sadly missed by her husband Eugene, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be held in Strokestown Parish Church at 11.30am on Sunday, 26th April.

Michael Scrine, Rahara. 16th of April, 2005. (21st Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear brother.

No length of time

Can take away

Our thoughts of you

From day to day

Your memories are treasured and always in our hearts

Sadly missed, loved and remembered by your sisters Mary, Ann, Veronica and brothers-in-law. xxx R.I.P.

FAMILY NOTICES

KIERNAN

Seamus (15th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my darling husband Seamus Kiernan, who passed away on the 16th of April, 2011. R.I.P.

I love you very much and always did, those special memories of you will always bring a smile.

If only I could have you back for just a little while, then we could sit and talk again just like we used to do. You always meant so very much and always will do too.

The fact that you’re no longer here will always cause me pain but you’re forever in my heart until we meet again. When the nights are cold and the stars are few, I close my eyes and think of you. A silent hope, a silent tear, a silent wish that you were here. It’s been a long 15 years without you my darling you have been a good husband and father, I love you so much.

From your loving wife Bridie, son James, daughter-in-law Joanne, grandchildren and great graddaughter baby Sophia Antoniou. He would have loved Sophia as much as Daniel. Anniversary Mass on Wednesday, 15th April in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 11am.

MALYNN

John & Margaret Late of Main Street, Roscommon.

(John 30th Anniversary)

(Margaret 34th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my mother Margaret who died 15th February 1992 And my father John who died 20th of April 1996.

There is no night without a dawning, No winter without a spring And beyond death’s dark horizon

Our hearts will once more sing .... For those who leave us for a while Have only gone away Out of a restless, care worn world Into a brighter day.

Always remembered by their daughter Rosemary. Anniversary Mass on Monday, 20th April, at 11am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

To

CONWAY

Margaret (Peggy) and James Racecourse Road, Roscommon (8th and 21st Anniversaries)

In loving memory of our parents Peggy who left us on April 4th 2018 and James who left us on April 15th 2005, late of Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Those we love must some day pass beyond our present sight must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place more perfect, more divine. And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright. Our loved ones live forever more in God’s eternal light.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your daughters, Maureen and Sinéad, sons Gerard, Carl, James, Cormac and John. Masses have been o ered.

KILMARTIN

Mary & Eddie Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon.

(Mary 18th Anniversary)

(Eddie 16th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear mother Mary, who died 22nd April 2008 and our dear father Eddie, who died 6th December, 2010.

Along the road of suffering, You found a little lane, That took you up to Heaven, And ended all your pain. You may be out of sight, We may be worlds apart, But you are always in our prayers, And forever in our hearts. We have loved them in life, Let us not forget them in death.

Always remembered by your son Edward, daughters Marian, Ann, Dorothy and Carmel, sons-in-law, grandchildren and all extended family.

Anniversary Mass for Mary & Eddie on Saturday, 18th April 2026, at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon.

MALONEY

Noel

Carrownabrickna, Racecourse Road, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Who passed away on April 20th 2016

A day that’s filled with sadness, returns to us today. To mark the way you left us in such a sudden way. Time slips by, life goes on, but from our hearts you will never be gone.

Loved and missed by Barry, Lisa, John and family.

CONNAUGHTON

Nancy

Rahara & Dublin who passed away on the 14th April 2023 (3rd Anniversary) RIP

Your memory of our greatest treasure to hold in our hearts and cherish forever, Each one of us have special thoughts of you today

Always remembered by your brother, sisters, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Rahara Church on Sunday 19th April at 10.00am

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

DONLON Esther

Moher Ballyleague, Lanesboro, Co Roscommon Happy Heavenly Birthday

April arrives with a gentle grace, To mark a soft and familiar space.

Eighty-seven years since your journey began, A life lived fully, part of a greater plan.

You never quite mastered the calendar’s art, Keeping dates in your head was never the part That mattered as much as the love that you gave, Or the laughter and memories you helped us to save.

So the 17th comes with a wink and a smile, The date you claimed as your own for a while. Then the 18th follows, the “official” turn, Two days of candles for us to let burn.

But we will mark the 17th, the way you always did, a little bit early but full of love, and laughter softly hid.

This third year in heaven, it brings a brand-new light, For the stars in the sky are shining more bright. Though we miss you down here, our hearts are at rest, Knowing this birthday is truly the best.

For the first time in years, the table is set, For a reunion we know you’ll never forget. Dad is right there, with a hand held in yours, Safe and content on those peaceful shores.

No more birthdays alone, no more miles in between, Just the purest of joy that remains unseen. Together forever, through April’s soft glow, Happy Heavenly Birthday, Mum – we love and miss you so.

From all your loving family.

PLANNING NOTICES

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

Rose Flynn intends to apply for RETENTION PERMISSION for development at this site: Ballyfeeny Townland, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon, for the following:

1. Seek for Retention of existing agricultural gate and entrance from public road (R-371). 2. Retention of an existing hardstanding surface and fencing on lands. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Ivens Lira (Agent/Planning Consultant) Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. 083-0482643. Email: ilir78@hotmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Cathal and Yvonne King, are applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the following to construct 2 No. semi-detached single storey two bedroom dwellings, together with all boundary treatments, road services and all ancillary site development works and connection to all public services at Rear of Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

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

Signed:

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 085 1756190

Mob: 0851299470

E: james@jlce.ie & jack@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, John and Daniella Gaynor intend to make application to Roscommon Couty Council for planning permission to demolish utility room and stores to rear of dwelling, demolish part of front elevation, refurbish and extend existing dwelling associated site development work and connect to existing services on site at Ballinagard, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the O ces 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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Aidan Garvey intends to apply for Permission to construct a slatted cattle shed on his lands at Drumalagagh, Oldtown, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Aiden Garvey

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Further Information

Applicants:

Ronan & Fiona Kildea. Location of proposed development to which the applicant relates: Corraree & Ballygatta, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co Roscommon. Planning Register Reference Number PD/26/60007. Signi cant further information in relation to the correct development description for the permission sought is for change of house design and change of site layout (including a change of the location of the house and garage) from that approved under planning register reference number PD/23/42 (An Bord Pleanala Reference Number ABP-319526-24) and to construct all necessary site works has been furnished to the planning authority and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation.

Signed: Ronan and Fiona Kildea.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Megan Finan, intend to apply for permission for development at this site KNOCKNACARROW, COOTEHALL, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

The development will consist of construction of; a) single aspect detached dwelling house with attic bedrooms and built-in garage, b) adopting the existing farm gate entrance for house and farm access, c) vehicular access driveway to serve the new house and garage, d) connecting to the existing road services, e) and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Megan Finan

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Notice for Renewable Energy Directive III (RED III) Development.

We, TDC Community Solar Park Limited, intend to apply for permission for amendments to previously permitted solar PV farm (RCC Pl. Ref. 21/350), within the townland of Tadu East, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The proposed development will comprise of –

• The addition of solar PV arrays on ground mounted steel frames, with a maximum overall height of 3m, over an area of c.1.98ha;

• 1 no. transformer/inverter station;

• Internal underground electrical cabling and ducting between the solar PV arrays and inverter/transformer station;

• And all associated ancillary site development works and services, including security fencing;

• The decommissioning and reinstatement of the solar farm at the end of its operational life.

Planning permission is sought for a period of 10 years with an operational life of 30 years from the date of commissioning.

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) accompanies this Planning Application.

The NIS assess the construction and operation of the Proposed Development, as well as the integral elements of the wider project infrastructure of the consented TDC Community Solar Park (RCC Pl. Ref. 21/350), comprising solar PV arrays, inverter and transformer stations, underground cabling and ducting, temporary construction compound, fencing, CCTV, access tracks, site drainage and landscaping, all of which are essential infrastructure associated with the operation of the Proposed Development.

This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413) and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply.

The Planning Application and NIS may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application and NIS may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of— (a) 5 weeks (X) or (b) 2 weeks, in the case of a planning application for small-scale solar energy equipment development or development that is the installation of a small-scale non-ground source heat pump, beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. For this application the submission period is 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Brian McKiernan, intend to apply for permission for development at this site CUILTYCONWAY TD.

KILMORE, CARRICKON-SHANNON, CO. ROSCOMMON

The development will consist of a) demolition of 7.38 m2 ground oor front and rear house porch, b) 146.86 m2 of ground and 133.67 m2 of attic oor extension to the north-west and north-east elevation of the existing dwelling house, c) existing house to be retained with internal changes and partial demolition, d) construction of pier gate entrance at the proposed new entrance at the south-east part of site with vehicular access driveway to serve the house site, e) upgrading the existing wastewater treatment system to current EPA Code of Practice with new proprietary septic tank and percolation area with polishing lter, f) and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Brian McKiernan

APPOINTMENTS

Administrative Assistant

Part-Time / Full-Time

A Roscommon based company requires an Administrative Assistant to work with their existing team.

The successful candidate must be professional and polite, while also being accurate. They must be comfortable with computers, telephone and general o ce tasks and excel at both verbal and written communications.

Administrative Assistant responsibilities:

• Data entry and report generation.

• Deal with queries via telephone and email.

• Maintain polite and professional communication via phone and email.

Administrative Assistant requirements:

• Excellent computer skills, fully pro cient in Microsoft O ce.

• Fluent English speaker.

• Prior administrative experience.

• Attention to detail.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS

Name of Applicant; Cathal Dunning. Ref Number of The Application; PD/25/60608

The development applied for consisted of; OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW FOUR BAY SLATTED SHED INCORPORATING FEEDING PASSAGE, CONCRETE APRON, WATER RECYCLING TANK, ACCESS ROAD AND ALL OTHER ANCILLARY SITE WORKS AND SERVICES CLOONOWN Td., ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON. Signi cant Further Information/ Revised Plans4 has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is4 available for inspection or

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We , Darragh & Aine Heavey intend to apply for planning permission for development at Corderryhugh, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of a dwellinghouse, garage, waste water treatment system & associated siteworks.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

Signed: Cathal Dunning

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Clann na nGael GAA Club, intend to apply for permission for development at Johnstown Demesne, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 DX94

The development will consist of the following:

• Construction of a new building to facilitate new dressing rooms, gymnasium, ancillary o ces and a spectator area

• The relocation of an existing pitch oodlight

• Along with all ancillary site work.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Creggs U-17s boys into cup final

Creggs U-17s Boys hosted Sligo on Sunday in the cup semi-final. The visitors had the advantage of a strong breeze in the first half and used it well to kick to the corner and score from a lineout on four minutes, a try which they converted from out wide.

Creggs couldn’t get a foothold and after some hard carries Sligo scored again on 14 minutes but missed the conversion (12-0).

Some strong carries from Andrej Anic and Conor Muldoon brought Creggs into the Sligo 22 when Muldoon cut back across the Sligo defence and spotted a gap which he exploited to score on 18 minutes. Harry Waldron added the conversion.

There followed a period of intense hits with the game played between the 22s before Sligo kicked a penalty with two minutes to go to half-time.

On the last play of the half Kian Hughes powered through the visitors defence and scored under the posts. Waldron converted to leave the halftime score at Creggs 14 Sligo 15.

Creggs started the second half quickly and with the aid of the elements, Muldoon capitalised on poor Sligo defence to score after just three minutes. Waldron converted.

Brian O’Connor made an incisive run back from a Sligo kick-off and was unlucky to end up in touch. However, sustained pressure led to a turnover and Cathal Mulry crashed over from close-range with 12 minutes gone. Waldron continued his perfect kicking from the tee to leave Creggs leading by 13.

With ten minutes to go Sligo scored a breakaway try and conversion to narrow the gap to six (28-22). Some good decisions and disciplined tackling saw the remainder of the game played in the visitors’ half. When Patrick Murray sent the ball into touch to finish the game the Creggs lads celebrated a hard-fought win and now look forward to a cup final later this month.

Panel: Cathal Mulry, Matthew Donnelly, Robbie McArdle, Oisin Connolly, James Murray, Patrick Zwierczyk, Kian Hughes, Andrej Anic, Sean Richardson, Harry Waldron, Jamie Finneran, Cillian Donoghoe, Conor Muldoon, Matthew Walsh, Brian O’Connor, Callum Clarke, Davy Fetherstone, Patrick Murray, Patrick Conneally, Aydin Odemis, Ciaran Cunnane, Austin Smyth, Connor Hannon, Dominik Mrozek, AJ Tully.

CONGRATS: Five Creggs U-16 players represented Connacht East in the Dexcom Stadium on Wednesday of last week, against North Connacht. Well done Calvin Beckett, Austin Smith, Aydin Odemis, Ryan Halligan and Ciaran Cunnane.

U-19 INTERNATIONAL: On Wednesday of last week Creggs RFC hosted an international match between Ireland U-19s and the French U-20 development team. A huge crowd turned up for the game which saw the Irish side run out winners on a final score of 39-29.

Congrats to local Roscommon youth and ex-Creggs player Leo Anic who came on in the second half playing his part in the win.

LOTTO: Congrats to Tara Keane who was the winner of our lotto jackpot recently, collecting a cheque for €10,100. The jackpot now restarts at €2000. Please join and support the running of our teams.

TAG RUGBY: Have you an interest in fun, fitness, making new friendships and tag rugby? Creggs RFC are offering all the above with their summer tag nights. Meeting up once weekly where all you need is boots and pitch/gym wear. Over 18s only with mixed teams. Join as a group or as an individual where you will be assigned to a team of 10. Registration is now open. Whether you work in an office, shop or factory, you can set up your own team with work colleagues or you will be added to a team. Runs from June 2nd to July 7th. Register at connachtrugby.ie/tag

SportsPeople

I Am Maximus returns to Grand National winners’ enclosure

Horses for Courses

This week’s racing starts this afternoon (Thursday) at Limerick at 1.40 pm, and continues tomorrow evening (Friday) at Ballinrobe at 5 pm – both national hunt cards. Saturday evening sees more national hunt fare at Bellewstown from 4.17 pm.

Racing on Sunday afternoon is over the sticks at Tramore, first race at 1.55 pm, and on the level at The Curragh, featuring the Group 3 Alleged Stakes. There is another jumping meeting at Tramore on Monday evening.

There are four races from the Newmarket card being covered today on ITV, including two Group 3 races, the ZYN Abernant Stakes and the Craven Stakes. On Saturday, ITV are covering five races from Ayr, including the Scottish Champion Hurdle worth £100,000 and the Scottish Grand National worth £50,000, and four flat races from Newbury.

Last Sunday at Leopardstown, Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore had a double with True Love in the Priory Belle Stakes and Cape Cod in the Tony Harmon Handicap. Wayne Lordan gave O’Brien a treble in the Ballysax Stakes. Fozzy Stack trained Thesecretadversary to win the Red Rock Stakes.

Aintree review

Aintree started on Thursday with an Irish winner, as Jack Kennedy rode Mange Tout, 5/1, to win the Grade 1 Juvenile Hurdle for Gordon Elliott, beating the Willie Mullins trained 9/4 favourite, Selma De Vary. Henry de Bromhead ‘s Koktail Divin, 3/1, made it a Grade 1 double, winning

BUCCANEERS RFC

by Tom Red

the Manifesto Novices’ Chase for the Irish under Darragh O’Keeffe as the 6-Y-O to beat Blueking d‘Oroux with the well-fancied 1/2f Lulamba out of the money.

No Irish luck in the Aintree Bowl Chase with the well-fancied Jango Baie, the even-money favourite, trained by Nicky Henderson and ridden by Nico de Boinville, taking the honours for Britain.

The Amateur Foxhunters went to the John O’Shea trained Barton Snow, winner of the Cheltenham race, ridden by Henry Crow at 7/4 favourite. Brighterdaysahead made it a Grade 1 treble for the Irish as the Gordon Elliott trained, Jack Kennedy ridden 13/8f won the Aintree Hurdle, giving both a double on the day.

The penultimate Red Rum Handicap Chase went to Fergal O’Brien’s Ryan’s Rocket, ridden by Irishman Jonathan Burke at 14/1. In the closing Open National Hunt Flat Race, Dan and Harry Skelton’s Nan’s Choice, at 9/2, beat Gavin Cromwell’s Lennon Grove.

At Aintree on Friday, the opening Handicap Hurdle was won by Wellington Arch at 6/1, trained by Jonjo O’Neill and ridden by his son, Jonjo Jr. The first Grade 1, the Mildmay Novices’ Chase, was won by Gold Dancer, trained by WP Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend. The horse caught his hind legs in the last, and while finishing the race apparently as normal, Townend jumped off the horse after the finish line, and it transcribed that Gold Dancer tragically had a broken back

and was euthanised.

In the second Grade 1, the ThatPrizeGuy Top Novices’ Hurdle, an outsider, Storming George at 16/1, won for trainer Neil King and jockey Jack Quinlan. Dan and Harry Skelton’s Grey Dawning, 5/1, gave them a double at the meeting in the third Grade 1 of the day, the Melling Chase, beating the Irish pair Solness and Heart Wood.

The Topham Chase over the national fences provided a 1, 2, and 4 finish for the Irish with Gavin Cromwell’s Will The Wise finishing in front of Willie Mullins’ Ile Atlantique, with Mullins’ Gentleman De Mee 4th.

In the final Grade 1, Joseph O’Brien’s Zeus Power was carried to a 2¾l victory over Catchintsavo by JJ Slevin. The closing Conditional and Amateur Hurdle was again won by an Irish horse as Bill Durkan’s Laafi triumphed at 20/1 in the hands of Pat O’Brien – not much relief for punters.

On Saturday, the opening Grade 1 race, the Maghull Novices’ Chase, went to the 50/1 outsider Mirabad,

trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Tristan Durrell, conditional jockeyelect in Britain, who has ridden out his claim. WP Mullins’ Salvator Mundi was second at 8/11f and Be Aware third for Skelton, ridden by his brother Harry.

In the Handicap Hurdle, Olly Murphy’s Wade Out was ridden to victory by Gavin Sheehan at 18/1.

In the Grade 1 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle, the Skeltons combined with Bossman Jack to beat stablemate Soldier Reeves with Durrell in the saddle. The Handicap Chase provided Dan Skelton with a treble and Harry with a double as My Hope Street beat Lookaway by a head. Joseph O’Brien and JJ Slevin combined to give the Irish a winner with Home By The Lee, a Cheltenham victor, at 5/1.

In the main race of the meeting, the Grand National, I Am Maximus regained his crown (the first horse to do so since Red Run in 1977), beating Iroko and Jordans with Johnnywho 4th. There was history created as Mullins has trained the last three

Grand National winners, last achieved by Vincent O’Brien in 1955, and owner JP McManus was winning his fourth title, as was Mullins.

In the bumper, Forthfactor was ridden to victory by Heidi Palin, giving Dan Skelton a four-timer on the day.

Irish handlers trained nine winners from 21 races over the three days, a very nice haul after Cheltenham.

Racing news

Trainer Dan Skelton has eventually become Champion Trainer in Britain after it became mathematically impossible for him to be caught in the race to be this season’s champion trainer.

The Alcester-based handler has won in style, dominating the season and becoming the first trainer to break the £4m prize-money mark.

Rachael Blackmore was inducted as a Grand National Legend at Aintree last Thursday. Congratulations, Rachael!

Competition time

It’s your second chance to win our first tickets of the year for Kilbeggan on April 24th: to enter… can you tell us what horse won the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday?

Answers as usual should be made via postcard to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to tomred17@gmail.com by 5 pm on Tuesday, April 21st. Don’t forget to include your name, address, and a contact phone number with all competition entries.

Tickets to be collected in the newspaper office in Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Buccaneers U-15s into Connacht final

Buccaneers and Dunmore served up a hugely entertaining Bank of Ireland Connacht U-15 Cup semi-final in front of a big attendance at Dubarry Park on Sunday with the homesters edging a competitive contest 24-19. Buccs deservedly progressed to the final.

SEMI-FINAL: Buccaneers Thirds square up to Westport Seconds in the semi-final of the Ard na Cregg Cup with the action kicking off in Dubarry Park at 2.30 pm on Sunday.

It is difficult to gauge the prospects of this Pirates crew for they have received walkovers in the previous two rounds. Meanwhile, the Bulls look to be more battle-hardened having overcome University of Galway at home and An Ghaeltacht away.

But Buccs have an interesting mix of guile and youth and Sunday’s duel can be a tight affair with the Shannonsiders hoping that home advantage may pay dividends.

NOMINATIONS: Nominations for Buccaneers Club Person of the Year are invited from paid-up members. Email your nomination to rugby@ dubarrypark.com before the end of April.

‘GIVE IT A TRY’: ‘Give It A Try’ for girls aged 7 to 13 commences at Buccaneers on Monday, May 11th,

and will run for eight weeks. Girls will learn rugby skills and fundamentals, fitness and coordination, all in a safe supportive environment. There will be mini-matches and fun games too. Cost is only €10 for the eight weeks. Contact Amy on 087 7510886 or David on 087 4616024 to book.

SUMMER TAG LEAGUE: Tag Rugby Summer League at Buccaneers will run from May 14th to July 2nd. Entry per team is €480 and each mixed squad can have up to 12 players. Keep fit in a social atmosphere and log on to www.connachtrugby.ie/tag to enter.

U-17s: With a number of key players disappointingly unavailable, Buccaneers fielded a weakened squad in their Bank of Ireland Connacht U-17 Cup semi-final against fancied Corinthians at Corinthian Park on Sunday. Despite a battling effort by the Pirates, supported by a number of U-16s, they were unable to match a strong home outfit and thus exited the cup. Sean O’Hara scored Buccaneers’ try, which was converted by Eoin Carr. The squad has one more fixture, one with an international flavour to it, when they host Newfoundland from Canada at Dubarry Park on Wednesday evening, April 29th. Kick-off time to be confirmed.

SportsPeople

St John’s bow out of cup

SOCCER: Roscommon & District League Premier Division champions St John’s bowed out of this season’s FAI Junior Cup when they were beaten 3-1 at home by Mayo side Ballyheane at Lecarrow last weekend.

Eamonn Harney gave St John’s an early lead but Nathan Doyle Reilly equalised and Cillian Redmond and Liam Morris added two more for the Mayo side before half-time.

Division One champions Ballinahown are safely through to round four following an impressive 4-1 home win over Crossmolina. All the hard work was done in the first half with the winners 4-1 ahead at the break. Ian Rosney (2), Oisin O’Reilly and Mark Egan were the scorers for the winners.

The Dunmore v Cartron Celtic game was postponed due to bad weather.

Division Two

In the top four play-off in Division Two, Ballyboro beat Cam Celtic/ Dysart 4-1 at Lanesboro. Jack Murray and Dwaine Tarmey had the eventual winners 2-0 up early on, and while Davy Cummins pulled a goal back, Jack Murray added two more for the winners.

The Glen Celtic v Carrick Town game fell victim to the bad weather although Carrick Town had made the journey to Glenamaddy.

Shield final

Boyle Celtic’s second side and Castlerea Celtic’s second side will meet in the Shield final following their respective semi-final wins.

In a local derby played at Castlerea the home side edged out Ballinagare in a game that went all the way to extra-time with the deciding score coming in time added on at the end of the second period.

Aaron Dowd gave Ballinagare the lead with ten minutes played and James Hawkshaw equalised on 68 minutes. Jack McDermott restored Ballinagare’s lead with 76 minutes played. Just when it looked like Ballinagare had done enough to win the game, Conor Murray Kelly got an equaliser. The same player then scored the winner in front of the big attendance with almost the last kick of the game.

Boyle Celtic B beat St Cuan’s-Ahascragh United 5-2 in an early kickoff at Boyle.

Alfonso Barrios converted a penalty for the home side after 16 minutes but Darrell Finn levelled the game with half an hour played. Colm Morris restored the Boyle lead just before half-time.

After the break, Colm Morris (two) and Alfonso Barrios added three more for the winners, with Peter Birch pulling a second goal back for St Cuan’s/Ahascragh United near the end.

Women’s League

The deciding game in the Women’s League featuring Dunmore Town and Ballaghaderreen failed to go ahead, with pitch conditions contributing to the cancellation.

Meanwhile, Shiven Rovers defeated a much-improved Roscommon United side 2-1 at Lecarrow. Rachel Farrell gave the Newbridge team the lead with four minutes played in the second half, Gerty Dowd converting a penalty to level the game. Sheenagh Martyn got the winner for Shiven with 20 minutes to go.

BOYLE

RESULTS: The Easter Shambles competition winning team was that of Paddy McLoughlin, Michael McHale, Lochlainn Conboy and Pat Conroy (with 117 points).

FIXTURES: The Men’s Thursday competitions have unfortunately got off to a delayed start due to some appalling weather, but we live in hope that this week will bring a change. It will be played as a 9-hole for its first few weeks before extending to 12 holes when we have more light.

This weekend’s competition for the Men (April 18th-19th) will be an 18-hole stableford.

LESSONS: Activity at the course should ramp up further this week with our Men’s and Ladies Beginner lessons starting on Wednesday (April 15th). On Saturday, April 18th, Children’s lessons resume. The 8th and 9th holes will be closed during these lessons for safety reasons.

VOUCHER COMPETITION: The voucher competition takes place for the men on the weekend of April 25th-26th. First prize, as ever, is free membership, but only those whose membership is paid in full or in good standing are eligible to win 1st prize – so get those memberships in soon.

FINANCE COMMITTEE: The Finance Committee wish to thank all those members who

All change, but minors maintain winning run

In the knowledge that they had already qualified for the Connacht final, manager Shane Moran and his selectors made no less than 14 changes to their starting team for this clash against Leitrim at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park on Friday night last. They still won decisively, which is a good sign for the strength of the panel as the season unfolds.

On a night of wind and heavy rain, good football was almost impossible, but the young Rossies adapted superbly and showed their composure throughout.

Roscommon played with the elements in the opening half and they dominated the proceedings and scored some excellent points including two-pointers (2) from the very impressive Sean Duggan. Other Roscommon scorers included Dylan Goode, Conor Cryan, Duggan again, and James O’Brien. At half-time Roscommon led by 0-10 to 0-0.

Roscommon began the second half with a flourish. Cryan crashed home a great goal in the 32nd minute and Cillian McGowan followed up with a super point to further extend the lead.

have paid membership for 2026. A reminder for all members who have not yet paid that as we have passed the March 31st deadline, we will start to remove names from BRS, Handicap Master, and Golf Ireland – starting April 30th –to comply with GI recommendations.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

NEW DIRECTOR: Our club welcomes our very first Director of Golf, Barry Ryan. This is another milestone for the club, and a sign of the club’s progression towards becoming one of the best parkland courses in the region. We ask all members to give Barry as much support as you can to make his role as successful and valuable as it can be for the club and its members. Best of luck, Barry. It’s great to have you on board.

PATRICK’S WIN: Congrats to Patrick Martin on winning the U-25 Flogas Irish Junior Open Elite WAGR Tour Champion event at New Forest Golf Club recently.

GENTS RESULTS: Gerard McGonigle won the Gents Easter competition with 25 points. Steve Doherty won last weekend’s competition with 37 points.

SENIORS: Recent overall winner was Anthony Noone. Congratulations to all winners, including category winners.

as Roscommon cruised to victory.

Roscommon must now wait for this week’s final round of games to be played, and a Connacht semi-final too, before they return to action in three weeks to contest the Connacht final.

Best for Shane Moran’s men on the evening were Sean Duggan, Daniel Nerney, Cillian McGowan and Conor Cryan.

Roscommon: Shane Carroll; Jack Sammon, Daniel Nerney, Conor Tighe; Aaron Martin, Michael McTiegue, Conor Cryan (1-1); Joseph McSharry, Cillian McGowan (0-1); James O’Brien (0-1, free), Donnacha O’Dwyer, Cronan McLoughlin (0-2); Luke Glennon, Sean Duggan (0-7, 2 2p), Dylan Goode (0-1). Subs: Darragh Killeen for Martin (h/t), Sam Walsh for Glennon (h/t), Rossa O’Dowd for McLoughlin (39), Eoin Naughten for O’Brien (45), Jamie Doyle for Tighe (55).

Leitrim: Elvis Shehaj; Dylan Murphy, Tadhg Crowe, Conor Reynolds; Harry Newcombe, Adam McCormack, Michael O’Grady; Hugh McGovern (0-1), Jack Guckian; Matthew Spears, Sean Keaney, Ryan Kelly; Colm McLaughlin, Joshua Bosquette, Sean Kelly (0-1, free). Subs: Senan Lee for Newcombe (45), Conor McCabe for Spears (45), Caomhin O’Sullivan for Kelly (54), Aaron Gallogly for Murphy (54), Conor Quinn-Kelly for McLaughlin (57). Referee: Paul Lydon (Mayo).

Short putts

ROSCOMMON

MEN’s UPDATE: The weekend competition (sponsored by Donnellan & Co, Main Street) winner was Michael McGuinness with 66 points. Cat. 1: Francie Grehan (68 pts); Cat. 2: Clement McCormack (68 pts); Cat. 3: Seamus Ó Dongaile (68 points).

This coming weekend the weekly competition will be kindly sponsored by Hannon’s Hotel. Details on BRS. LADIES’ UPDATE: Last week’s competition was kindly sponsored by Donnellan & Co, Main Street). 17-hole overall winner was Noreen O’Grady with 37 points. Cat. 1: Rosemary O’Brien (36 pts); Cat. 2: Laarni Beattie (30 pts). 9-hole overall winner was Mary Feeley with 22 points. Cat. 1: Therese Ray (22 pts); Cat. 2: Pat Lyons (21 pts).

The Ladies Senior Foursomes quarterfinals against Rosses Point, Sligo take place

this Saturday, April 18th. There will be two matches in Sligo (at 2.30 pm and 2.40 pm) and one match in Roscommon (2.30 pm). Please come out and support our team. We wish our lady Captain Una Clay, team Captain Una Gleeson, and the team the very best of luck.

SENIOR MEN: Winner was Jackie Kilroy with 34 points. Cat. 1: Sean McGahon (34 pts); Cat. 2: Christy Dolan (31 pts); Cat. 3: Michael Waldron (31 pts); Cat. 4: Michael Frawley (34 pts). Charlie Farrell had a holein-one on the 6th. Well done, Charlie! SENIOR LADIES: Recent winner was Una Gleeson with 23 points. 2nd: Kate Walshe (23 pts); 3rd: Anne Gately (21 pts).

MASTERS FUNDRAISER: The annual Masters fundraiser was a huge success with a record entry. Thanks to everyone who supported it. A special word of thanks to John and Liz McHale for organising so efficiently as usual.

Rich pickings for Orchard County

Centra Camogie League Division 3A final Armagh 1-14 Roscommon 1-8

Armagh secured an immediate return to Division Two of the Centra Camogie League and cemented their status as favourites for the All-Ireland Junior Championship into the bargain with a fairly straightforward Division 3A final victory over Mary Grehan’s Roscommon side at Abbotstown on Saturday last. The Orchard County managed the elements very well in both halves, building up a nine-point lead by half-time and keeping the Rossies at arm’s length while playing into the teeth of a fiercely strong breeze after the turnaround.

The only concern for Armagh was their inability to make the best out of the plethora of chances they created while windassisted. They accumulated seven wides and only put real distance between the teams with some outstanding points from Ciara Hill and Eimear Smyth in the closing stages of the half, just when it looked as if Roscommon might have done enough to give themselves a chance of an upset.

Gemma McCann, Méabh O’Hare and Fiadhna Loughran were all exceptional in the second half however, as Armagh kept Roscommon to 1-4 in that period. Ciarrai Devlin was also vital to the cause as she made up for her error with the Roscommon goal by coming up with some crucial stops to curtail Roscommon’s momentum.

Armagh wasted no time in getting on the front foot, opening the scoring through a Sinead Quinn free and following up with a goal after five minutes. Quinn was the scorer, whipping the ball inside Michaela Finneran’s near post after an inviting pass from Katie Convie.

Roscommon’s attack lacked variation and they struggled to win or hold possession in wide positions, but Caitlin Egan and Rachel Fitzmaurice were a constant threat, particularly when they switched roles. Fitzmaurice moved out to centre-forward while Egan took up station on the edge of the square, from where she scored one point and earned another free.

Armagh always had more threat though and there were fine scores from Niamh Forker and Convie to keep the scoreboard moving, with Rachael Trainor often opening up opportunities with her clever angles of running and intelligent distribution.

Smyth and Hill split the uprights to push the lead out to nine at the turnaround (1-10 to 0-4), but it was in the ten minutes after half-time when Armagh really cemented their win. Quinn had been their top scorer but she now was playing a role akin to a No 9 in soccer, running channels and providing an out-ball, holding up play and ensuring that even as Armagh struggled for scores, most of the play was happening

in Roscommon’s half.

The Connacht ladies were handed a lifeline when Shauna Fallon’s shot was partially blocked and Devlin failed to gather the sliotar, instead watching as it looped over her head when Fitzmaurice got a vital touch. Orla Connolly followed up with a close-range free and Fitzmaurice had another goal

chance immediately afterwards that could have reduced the margin to four points.

Devlin made no mistake this time, narrowing the angle and smothering the Roscommon dual player’s shot, and once again Armagh produced a clever display of controlled, methodical territorial hurling for the remainder, putting a bow on

their win when Eimear McGeary drove through the defence and hammered the ball over from 30 metres out.

Armagh: C Devlin; M McCone, G McCann, M O’Hare; E Hayes, F Loughran, A McEntee; E McGeary (0-1), K Convie (02); N Forker (0-2), C Doyle, C Hill (0-1); E Smyth (0-1), S Quinn (1-4, 3 frees), R Trainor (0-3, 2 frees). Sub: T Maxwell McKeever for Smyth (56). Roscommon: M Finneran; A Hussey, M Lohan, A O’Brien; H Murray, E McDermott, S Mannion; S Bolger, O Connolly (0-5, 4 frees); A Sutton, C Egan (0-2), G Geraghty; G Jones, R Fitzmaurice (1-1), O Kelly. Sub: S Fallon for Geraghty (ht). Referee: Alan Doheny (Laois).

Rossies reign in The Bronx

< SEAMUS DUKE AT GAELIC PARK, NEW YORK

Last weekend will be remembered for a brilliant social gathering of thousands of Roscommon supporters who made their way stateside for this Connacht quarter-final in The Bronx. However, the match itself produced little excitement for the approximate 4,500 crowd that gathered on a beautiful sunny Sunday at Gaelic Park.

Put simply, this was a cakewalk from the throw-in as Roscommon set about their task in a professional and sometimes ruthless manner, especially in the first half. They had the ball in the New York net after only 25 seconds, and while the visitors conceded a goal to the home side in the 2nd minute, Mark Dowd’s men ran riot after that, scoring four more goals before the break to help them to a whopping 19-point lead by the halfway mark.

The second half was a bore-fest as the contest was already long over in competitive terms. The capacity crowd had ample time to chat and plan their after-match celebrations as both teams effectively went through the motions.

There was one dark cloud for Roscommon though, and it came in the last minute of the first half when Daire Cregg was involved in a clash with New York midfielder Eoghan McElligott. When it broke up, referee Brendan Cawley consulted his linesman and issued a straight red card to the Boyle man. It looked an extremely harsh sanction. The word afterwards was that Cregg was sent off for ‘striking’. Personally, I didn’t see any strike.

If the decision stands, Cregg will miss the Connacht semi-final against Mayo on Sunday week in Castlebar. He would be a massive loss. Hopefully the powers that be will lodge an appeal prior to that huge upcoming fixture.

On a cool day of brilliant sunshine, there was a carnival-like atmosphere as the huge crowd of visiting supporters milled around the venue before the match. The Roscommon team had come on a mission to put the game to bed early and they certainly did that.

On the throw-in, Senan Lambe powered forward and the move ended with Enda Smith fisting to the net for a goal within 25 seconds. In fairness, New York replied in kind in the second minute when Jack Foley finished a fine team move to the Roscommon net. It was a super response from the home side but that was as good as it got from their point of view as they were completely swamped by a rampant Roscommon.

Senan Lambe was outstanding again, and Paddy Gavin, Caelim Keogh, Dylan Ruane, Darragh Heneghan and Daire Cregg also led the charge as Roscommon swept forward. It looked like they would score every time they attacked.

Rob Heneghan fisted a second Roscommon goal in the 8th minute following good work from Lambe and Cregg. Further Roscommon goals arrived from Dylan Ruane in the 16th minute, Darragh Heneghan in the 20th minute and Eoin McCormack in the 27th minute. It was clinical stuff from Roscommon as they pulled away into the distance.

Dowd: ‘Red card will have to be reviewed’

REACTION

< SEAMUS DUKE

For people involved in the management of a county team, trips such as the one Roscommon made to New York last week can be very challenging logistically.

Be that as it may, Roscommon manager Mark Dowd was very satisfied – probably relieved too – with his team’s day’s work which resulted in a big win over the Exiles last Sunday.

“I’m very happy to come here, put in a good performance and come out with a win. We got off to a good start and it was great to get those goals early on. It’s been something that we have been working hard on – if we get a goal chance we go for it and take it hopefully.”

With Mayo defeating London on their travels on Saturday, Dowd was beginning to cast his gaze towards that huge semi-final in MacHale Park on Sunday week.

“It’s a massive game. You saw what happened there a few weeks ago in Castlebar (when the home side defeated Roscommon by a big margin in their league encounter) so we know how good Mayo are… we will have to be on top of our game there on Sunday week.”

A huge talking point after the game in New York was the red card issued to Daire Cregg. Mark Dowd said that when the team management gets a chance to look at it in detail they would explore the possibility of lodging an appeal.

“The incident will definitely have to be reviewed. I certainly didn’t see a punch in it but if there was, then so be it. But if there wasn’t, we will certainly look into it.”

The manager said it was a great weekend for the Roscommon contingent in New York.

“Ah it’s been great. You saw what happened there in Times Square on Saturday (when supporters assembled en masse) and all the Roscommon people that came out. It gave us a lift and it gave the supporters a lift as well. Now that the game is over we will enjoy the rest of the trip” he concluded (speaking on Sunday evening).

SportsPeople

The Roscommon team lined up prior to throw-in at Gaelic Park.

Before half-time we had that red card shock with Cregg sidelined in the 34th minute. After that twist, Senan Lambe had time to kick the only two-pointer of the match, meaning Roscommon led 5-11 to 1-4 at half-time.

There is very little to be said about the second half. With the game over as a contest, both sides ran their benches. It was pedestrian stuff as the teams went through the motions in almost total silence, the crowd enjoying the April sunshine.

From a Roscommon point of view, management will have been pleased that three subs – Shane Cunnane, Paul Carey and Conor Hand – got on the scoresheet.

In general, there was much to admire about the way Roscommon played, but it has to be said that New York provided very weak opposition. Conor Carroll kicked two ‘45s. Paddy Gavin had another excellent outing at corner-back, while Ronan Daly and Senan Lambe were outstanding in the half-back line.

If one was to nitpick, the midfield pairing of Keith Doyle and Conor Ryan were less than convincing in the opening 15 minutes when there was a contest, but both players came into the game well after that.

Up front, Darragh Heneghan, Rob Heneghan and Dylan Ruane were the pick of the forwards, while Diarmuid Murtagh and Enda Smith didn’t have to over-extend themselves. In fact Roscommon had 15 different scorers on the day, which is an indication of a super team effort.

Now that the New York hurdle is out of the way, the serious business of a trip to Castlebar to face Mayo in the Connacht semi-final comes into full view. I wouldn’t say Mark Dowd and his management team learned too much about their team in this lopsided encounter. One thing seems certain: it will be a monumental battle on Sunday, April 26th, and Roscommon will need all their big guns firing that day. Hopefully Daire Cregg will be there too. I think he should be.

Teams & scorers

Roscommon: Conor Carroll (0-2, 2 ‘45s); Paddy Gavin, Caelim Keogh, Eoin McCormack (1-0); Eoin Ward (0-1), Ronan Daly, Senan Lambe (0-2, 2p); Keith Doyle (0-1), Conor Ryan (0-1); Dylan Ruane (1-1), Enda Smith (1-2), Darragh Heneghan (11); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-2, 1 free), Daire Cregg (0-3, 1 free), Rob Heneghan (1-2). Subs: Conor Hand (0-1) for D Heneghan (43), Colm Neary for Lambe (45), Niall Higgins for Gavin (48), Shane Cunnane (0-2) for Doyle (50), Paul Carey (0-1, free) for Murtagh (58).

New York: Joey Grace; Tadhg O’Riordan, Sean Wilson, Cian O’Dea; Jack Foley (0-1), Matthew Queenan, Rob Wharton; Eoghan McElligott, Conal Kennedy; Donal Hunt, Frank O’Reilly (0-4, 2 frees), Tiernan Mathers; Conor Keenan (02), Jack McKenna (1-1, one mark), Killian Butler (0-2). Subs: James Walsh for Foley (30), Jack Savage for Mathers (h/t), Shane Brosnan for O’Riordan (h/t), David Naughten for Hunt (52), Jack Kennedy for Keenan (59).

Referee: Brendan Cawley (Kildare).

Stat Attack

Red cards: Roscommon 1 (Daire Cregg, 34);

New York 0

Black cards: 0

Yellow cards: 0

Wides: Roscommon 4 (1, first half);

New York 9 (5, first half)

Two-pointers: Roscommon 1 (Senan Lambe); New York 0

Attendance: Approx. 4,500

Man of the Match: Senan Lambe (Roscommon)

Action from Roscommon v New York last Sunday.

‘Early goals set tone’

< SEAMUS DUKE

Enda Smith was a happy Roscommon player as he reflected on the team’s win over New York while chatting to family, friends and supporters after Sunday’s game at Gaelic Park.

“We are delighted with the performance there today” Enda told People Sport.

“We set the tone with those early goals and the contest was kind of dead after 20 minutes… but it was a challenge for us in the second half when we were down to 14 men and I thought we did well and got the job done.”

Next stop for Roscommon is at MacHale

Park later this month.

”Yep, they (Mayo) had a good win against London. MacHale Park is always a great place to play in a big Connacht Championship game. We are really looking forward to that clash on Sunday week now” the former All-Star commented.

Even the experienced Boyle ace was taken aback by the size of the Roscommon following in the Big Apple.

“It’s been a brilliant few days. The whole trip has been unbelievable to be honest. We had a nice balance of training and the match and mingling with the supporters. I think we have ticked all the boxes this weekend. It has been fantastic” he concluded.

Sports PEOPLE

Hurlers face Meath in Ring Cup

Christy Ring Cup (Round 1)

Derry 1-22 Roscommon 1-10

< SEAMUS DUKE

Despite a brave showing for most of the match Roscommon’s senior hurlers were defeated by 12 points by Derry in the opening round of the Christy Ring Cup at Celtic Park on Sunday last.

In a game that saw both teams have a man sent off, it was the home side who showed more composure throughout and it was a comprehensive victory for them in the end.

Roscommon played against the strong wind in the first half. Derry prospered early on, leading by 0-7 to 0-2 after 18 minutes of play, Paddy Fallon (a free) and Conor Coyle on the mark for Roscommon.

However, Brian Hanley’s men were back in the match thanks to a well-taken goal from Jack Donnelly after 18 minutes, and with Fallon accurate from frees and Conor Mulry playing well in attack, the visitors were well in contention.

A vital score for the home side arrived in the 23rd minute when Joe Mulholland crashed home a superb goal after good work from Cormac O’Doherty. It meant that Derry went in at halftime leading by 1-12 to 1-7.

Despite by then playing against the conditions, Derry were on top in the third quarter and were eight points up when they had Eamon Cassidy sent off for a second yellow card offence. Roscommon battled away but could never really reduce the margin and disaster struck in the 55th minute when Paddy Fallon was sent to

the line on a straight red card offence. With that Roscommon’s challenge faded and Derry pulled away to win with a bit to spare.

Roscommon now face Meath in round two at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park this Saturday, knowing that they will have to pull a win out of somewhere to maintain an interest in this year’s competition. Meath lost to Kerry in round one last weekend by 3-17 to 0-12.

On the day, Jack Donnelly, Sean Canning, Adam Donnelly, Conor Mulry and Ronan Finn were Roscommon’s best players.

Derry: Sean Kelly; Jamie Lee McGlade, Patrick Turner, Cathair McGilligan; Conor Coyle (0-1, free), Meehaul McGrath (0-1), Eamon Cassidy (0-1); Thomas Brady, Eamon Conway (0-1); Darragh McGilligan (0-1), Fintan Bradley (0-1), Joseph Mulholland (1-0); Cormac O’Doherty (06, 2 frees), Shea Cassidy (0-4), Deaglain Foley (0-3). Subs: Eunan Boylan (0-1) for Brady (54), Ryan McGivney for Conway (64), Sean Martin Quinn (0-1) for Bradley (65), Michael Lynch for O’Doherty (66), Ruari Biggs (0-1) for Cassidy (68).

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Micheál Hussey, James Dillon, Jack Dowling; Keelan Ryan (01), Adam Donnelly, Darragh Finn; Tommy Morris, Ethan Connaughton; Conor Mulry (02), Cian Murray, Niall Fleming; Cian Bowes, Jack Donnelly (1-1), Paddy Fallon (0-5, 4 frees). Subs: Ronan Finn for Murray (h/t), Seán Canning for J Donnelly (44), Conor Morris (0-1, free) for

On a busy weekend, Munster hurling set to thrill?

CHAMPIONSHIP WATCH 2026

Ulster SFC: Derry v Antrim in Celtic Park on Saturday at 5 pm

All the talk this year about the Ulster Championship concerns Donegal and Armagh.

That will be music to the ears of Derry who still have a number of top class players in their ranks. On their day, Derry can match anyone and they will want to have a say in the destination of the Anglo Celt Cup this year. They will have a bit to spare against Antrim.

Prediction: Derry.

Ulster SFC: Monaghan v Cavan in Clones on Sunday at 3 pm

In this local derby the form book usually goes out the window. Monaghan have had a disastrous year so far. Cavan are not exactly pulling up any trees either so there won’t be much in this one.

Given that they are at home, and were playing in Division One, I will give Monaghan the nod – but not with much conviction.

Prediction: Monaghan.

Leinster SFC: Meath v Westmeath in Tullamore on Sunday at 2 pm

After almost two months of Dublin dominance, a competitive Leinster SFC lies ahead… who would have thought it? Many pundits’ choice to win it in 2026 are Meath. They look a good side and should have too much firepower for Westmeath in this derby game.

Prediction: Meath.

Leinster SFC: Wicklow v Dublin in Aughrim on Sunday at 3 pm

Changed times when Dublin and Meath are joint favourites for the Leinster Championship. Wicklow had a big win against Carlow last week but this is a massive step up for them.

Manager Ger Brennan is suspended and won’t be on the line for Dublin. It won’t matter as they should win this with a bit to spare – but there will be bigger challenges ahead.

Prediction: Dublin.

Leinster SFC: Louth v Wexford in Carlow on Sunday at 2.30 pm

Louth put their title on the line in Carlow, and despite the fact that Wexford have improved this year and had a good league campaign, the Wee County are now a quality side and should win with a bit to spare.

Prediction: Louth.

Leinster SFC: Kildare v Laois in Newbridge on Sunday at 3.45 pm

One of the big mysteries of Gaelic football is the continued woes of Kildare. After their relegation in the league, they will play in the Tailteann Cup this year if they are defeated here. Laois are no great shakes, but they will fancy their chances in this one. A hard game to call. Kildare might just edge it.

Prediction: Kildare.

Munster SHC: Clare v Waterford in Ennis on Sunday at 2 pm

With all due respect to all the other GAA action at the weekend, the Munster SHC will attract most attention. This championship within a championship is set to be another blockbuster this year, with five teams all believing that they can win the trophy.

Waterford are capable of pulling a surprise result out of the bag any year, but Clare look a very strong side – especially up front – and they get the vote to open their account.

Prediction: Clare.

Munster SHC: Tipperary v Cork in Semple Stadium on Sunday at 4 pm

What a match this promises to be. Tipp are the reigning All-Ireland champions and will want to start their campaign with a win at home. But Cork are still smarting after that sensational final defeat in Croke Park last July. There will be a huge crowd in Thurles to see this and all the indications are that it will be a humdinger. I fancy Cork to win it by a few points.

Prediction: Cork.

Leinster SHC: Galway v Kilkenny in Pearses Stadium on Saturday at 4.30 pm

This will be fascinating. Are Kilkenny slipping back? When that question is asked they usually have a devastating response.

Galway have been improving and at home they

will hope to start their campaign with a win. This will be close. Galway get a hesitant vote.

Prediction: Galway.

Leinster SHC: Kildare v Wexford in Newbridge on Saturday at 6.30 pm

While Kildare have made huge improvements of late, Wexford should be too strong for them and they get my vote to progress.

Prediction: Wexford.

Leinster SHC: Offaly v Dublin in Tullamore on Saturday at 6.30 pm In Tullamore, Offaly will be up against it when they host visitors Dublin. The Dubs should win this one with a bit to spare.

Prediction: Dublin.

Note: There is also a full round of matches in the Joe McDonagh, Christy Ring and Lory Meagher Cups this weekend.