Roscommon People - 24 April 2026

ATHLONE MOATE

LANESBOROUGH Ι GALWAY

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

ACCIDENT

DOLORES GACQUIN – SOLICITOR

* In

Tel: 090 6478433 • info@bccsolicitors.ie

BANK CONTACT ABOUT LOAN

www.bccsolicitors.ie 090 647 8433

I owe a large amount of money to a bank and I have no funds to meet payments at the moment. The bank contacts me frequently regarding missed payments and I am beginning to feel harassed and bullied by them. Is there a limit to the number of times they may contact me?

Under the Central Bank’s Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (CCMA), all regulated mortgage lenders may not initiate more than three unsolicited communications with a borrower regarding mortgage arrears, by whatever means, in a calendar month unless you request additional contact. This limit includes attempted but unsuccessful contacts and excludes communications you’ve initiated or those mandated by law.

Further, the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997 (the Act) specifically prohibits harassment. Under the Act, anyone who without authority “persistently” follows, watches, pesters, or telephones a person is deemed guilty of harassment. If someone intentionally seriously interferes with another’s peace, privacy or causes alarm, they are ‘harassing’.

Additionally, the Consumer Protection Act, 2007, states that a trader may not engage in aggressive commercial practice. Commercial practice refers to conduct engaged in before, during or after the initial consumer transaction. In determining whether the commercial practice employs harassment the following shall be taken into account:

(a) the timing, location, nature or persistence of the commercial practice;

(b) the use of threatening or abusive language or behaviour by the trader;

(c) the exploitation of a consumer’s misfortune or circumstance when the trader is aware that the consumer’s judgment is impaired. If you are subjected to repeated calls or communication from your bank regarding debts you should refer the matter to the Financial Regulator.

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

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I KNEW he knew nothing about farming – or farmers!

Are you STILL giving out about the response to the farmers’ protest? Micheál Martin, is it? Simon Harris?

No, NOT THEM!

Your buddy, Michael Healy-Rae, is it? Sure he only resigned because you told him to… when he rang you in New York for advice!

He got me at an awkward moment! Well you’re not in a great position to give political advice, seeing as you still haven’t decided yourself whether or not to run for election!

I can’t help it if the Healy-Raes and Michael McGrath ring me for advice! They’re good guys! Anyway, I’m not talking about Michael Healy-Rae either! Have you not been attending to the news cycle? I find it hard to attend to myself!

(They pause to attend to the news cycle, scrolling on their phones as two old ladies pass by… while giving out about how their husbands haven’t done a tap in the garden yet)

LEO! Huh?

I KNEW that Leo Varadkar fella knew nothing about farming! Did you not hear what he said?

Oh yeah, of course! Leo! He had a go at farmers! AND rural Ireland!

Endangered Species

Thebarstoolboyos

Yes, he most certainly did! It was shocking! Sure Jim Gavin… Forget about Jim Gavin! All Jim Gavin did was pose for a photo on a farm during the presidential election, and then forget to close the gate! Not inspiring…

He knows nothing about farming!

But Leo really let rural Ireland have it! I suppose he’s welcome to his opinion… Well he’s wrong!

(They pause to discuss arrangements for the big trip to Castlebar this Sunday)

I always thought Leo looked a bit bored at the ploughing!

By the way, what a weekend of sport that was!

Ah yeah, lovely hurling!

The Republic of Ireland ladies soccer team completed back-to-back wins over Poland…

Yes! Excellent!

And the Irish ladies rugby teams had a great double at senior and U-21 level! Two wins over Italy!

(They pause to have a zoom meeting with their prospective New York agent; details to follow in future columns)

So…

By the way, I think you’ll find Leo Varadkar is a bit of an expert on some aspects of farming, after all!

No! Absolutely not! He has no expertise on ANY aspect of farming!

Well, you’ve heard of foot and mouth… Leo’s an expert on foot in mouth!

Ha! Anything else to say?

Well, seeing as you asked, I still think Jim Gavin should have closed that gate…

It’s been a GOOD week for…

The Irish women’s soccer team, with two wins over Poland inside four days leaving them well placed in their bid to qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup

Marian’s of Boyle, with the boutique featuring in an RTE documentary – ‘Young Forever: The Death of Aging’ – last Monday night, presenter Kathryn Thomas highlighting that the average age of the all-female staff there is past the national standard retirement age (also featured was social dancing with Gary Gormley in The Coachman’s Inn,

Town)

Westmeath footballers, who produced a shock win over thenLeinster Senior Football Championship favourites, Meath

It’s been a BAD week for…

Leo Varadkar (arguably), who has been strongly criticised for comments on rural Ireland, with the former Taoiseach claiming that urban Ireland is “paying all the bills”

The Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Fine Gael’s Councillor Liam Callaghan, has expressed his disappointment and frustration with comments made by his former party leader Leo Varadkar in relation to the farming community and rural Ireland generally.

Cllr Callaghan said he was very disappointed by the comments made by the former Taoiseach, in which Mr Varadkar said that urban Ireland is “paying all the bills”, that farmers bring costs to Ireland, and that what is “in the interests of farmers in the agriculture industry is by and large not in the interests of Ireland as a nation”.

Cllr Callaghan said that the claim by Mr Varadkar that urban Ireland ‘pays the bills’ is “totally misguided” and in no way reflects the reality of people and families in rural areas.

Cllr Callaghan pointed out that food exports are worth over €20 billion annually and said the idea that one part of the country is picking up the tab for the other

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Cathaoirleach ‘disappointed’ with Leo Varadkar’s comments on rural Ireland

is not how a country’s economy works.

“Every worker contributes, but some take bigger risks – particularly farmers, who don’t know from one year to another what their real income will be.”

The long-time Fine Gael member said that the former Fine Gael leader’s comments had caused huge upset in the farming community, particularly after “another long, hard winter.”

Cllr Callaghan went on to say that during his time in politics he had never got a ‘vibe’ like this from any politician – be it a TD or a minister – “only common support for farmers and rural communities”.

“As a Fine Gael councillor, I’m disappointed with our former leader’s comments and he should reflect strongly on them.”

Cllr Callaghan finished with a parting shot at the former Taoiseach’s approach to debate both when in office and now.

“I do think he was always slightly petty, wanting the last word in a debate or discussion.”

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PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

WEDNESDAY

Trump & the Healy-Raes

Paraphrasing Oscar Wilde (whose father, Sir William Wilde, grew up in Castlerea, County Roscommon) is a game everyone can play.

Oscar famously quipped: “To lose one parent… may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness”.

In which vein one might say (to Donald Trump, on the subject of actions having consequences): “To lose access to the Strait of Hormuz may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose the Healy-Raes as well looks like carelessness”.

THURSDAY

Sporting courage!

As something of an old-timer by now, I’d probably favour the 1975 fight (‘Thrilla in Manila’) between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in any discussion on the greatest example of sporting courage ever (honourable mention to Ali v George Foreman). Still, when it comes to sporting courage, you have to hand it to Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher. Earlier this week, ‘Carra’ bravely revealed Steven Gerrard as his choice for greatest midfielder of the Premier League era… with Roy Keane sitting across from him!

At least Keane was selected in second place – and complimented glowingly by Carragher. Still, losing out to Liverpool legend Gerrard, a fabulous player (who never won the league title), probably grated more with Keane than if the top award had gone to Patrick Vieira or Kevin De Bruyne (for example).

Carragher and Keane were goodhumoured about it all, while Keane’s old Manchester United teammate Gary Neville was quick to provide some ‘redress’ on his podcast – choosing the Cork man as his number one midfielder (and placing Gerrard fourth).

FRIDAY

CV or not CV…

Watched a recording of last night’s

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

final of The Apprentice (BBC 1) where (some of) the contestants still can’t prepare their CVs properly, and one of whom didn’t make reference to ‘profit and loss’ in their business plan.

On The Apprentice, arrogance often trumps savviness. Still, beauty business owner Karishma Vijay – who was declared the winner, and recipient of Alan Sugar’s £250k investment – certainly appears to have the determination and confidence to prosper.

SATURDAY

Starmer & Fawlty

Could the fallout from Peter Mandelson’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein bring down British Prime Minister Keir Starmer?

Starmer has been under pressure over his appointment of Mandelson as the UK’s US ambassador ever since disquieting details emerged of the latter’s friendship with sex offender Epstein.

While the disgraced Mandelson was removed from the role, and has subsequently been investigated by the Metropolitan Police, Starmer’s judgement remains under the spotlight (to say the least). This week, it emerged

that Mandelson had failed security vetting, but was still appointed (as ambassador) by the Prime Minister.

Now accused by political opponents of having lied, the embattled Starmer has taken the interesting approach of claiming to be as angry (about the latest twist in the controversy) as everyone else.

“I’m absolutely furious,” he told the media. “I was not told that [Mandelson] had failed security vetting. No minister was told that. No. 10 wasn’t told that failed security vetting, that is completely unacceptable.”

This reminded me of when a guest complained to Basil in Fawlty Towers about the incompetence of Spanish waiter Manuel.

Instead of taking responsibility, Basil responded: “You only have to eat here! We have to live with it! I had to pay his fare all the way from Barcelona… you can’t get the staff. It’s a nightmare!”

SUNDAY

Paschal’s powers

On the RTE website, under the headline ‘What now for Michael Healy-Rae af-

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

ter shock resignation?’ Paschal Sheehy writes: ‘Politics is deeply ingrained in the Healy-Rae family… It’s what they wake up thinking about in the morning; it’s the last thing they think about when they sleep at night’. How could he know?

MONDAY

Just a thought…

I note, along with the advancement of AI and countless other flourishes of brilliance by today’s technological geniuses, that the Artemis II capsule recently travelled at about 24,000 miles an hour.

This is all very impressive. Credit where it’s due and all that. Still, it would be nice – and so helpful – if someone, somewhere, could invent a way of more easily opening those sticky-type plastic bags for small household bins that the shops sell.

TUESDAY

Wake-up call?

On X (formerly Twitter), someone posts: ‘Super serious question. Do all

people over 50 wake up at 5 am?’

The question strikes a chord with me, and I ponder on it for a moment or two. Then I try to get back to sleep… after all, the school run’s only three and a half hours away.

WEDNESDAY

Leo’s outburst

I remember so well that quaint era when former Taoisigh kept their mouths shut (on matters of national importance).

There was something dignified about it. Now we live in the social media era, and every Tom, Dick, Harry and Matt is doing a podcast. It was on Matt’s podcast (Matt Cooper’s) that Leo went all divisive. Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is perfectly entitled to his opinion, of course. Leo’s views on farmers and rural dwellers v their urban counterparts may have been more nuanced than the headlines and soundbites suggest, but his overall point was provocative and, in the view of many people, simply wrong.

Leo’s ‘headline point’ was that the role of farmers in Irish society is overstated, and that it’s ‘urban Ireland’ that’s actually ‘paying the bills’.

On Cooper’s Path to Power podcast, Varadkar said what’s in the interests of farmers is not in the interests of the whole country. He added that people in urban Ireland need to be more blunt and should tell farmers that it is urban Ireland that’s paying all the bills.

That’s just an offensive misrepresentation of the reality. I can only imagine that Fine Gael leader Simon Harris is furious with his predecessor.

I don’t wish to tar all politicians with the same brush, but it doesn’t inspire confidence in the validity of what vote-conscious and PRconscious politicians say when they’re in office! Now out of politics, Varadkar has just said stuff that he’d never have dreamt of saying when in office. What does that tell us?

*As we went to press, Mr Varadkar issued a sort of an apology for putting his wellies in his mouth.

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Joe Dolan Tribute Show for Strokestown this Tuesday night

The music and songs of the late, great Joe Dolan are set to thrill the audience at the Eugene Murphy Cabaret Show in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown on this Tuesday night, April 28th.

Joe spent several decades at the top of the charts not alone in Ireland but also across many countries, bringing joy to thousands of people down through the years.

Well-known singer Paschal Brennan and his Band, who have had major success with this show through-

out the country, now bring this event to Strokestown for the first time – this Tuesday night. Relive great memories of Joe’s numerous hits, including ‘You’re Such a Good Looking Woman’, ‘More And More’, ‘Sweet Little Rock ‘n’ Roller’, ‘It’s You, It’s You, It’s You’ – and many more – as Paschal and colleagues brings us over an hour and a half of first class entertainment.

As the saying goes ‘There is no Show like a Joe Show’ – and while the great man has passed

(and is greatly missed) this well produced and well presented show creates very happy memories of the superstar’s talent.

Support act on the night is the brilliant Mary Hoey from County Armagh. On her first visit to Strokestown a few months ago, Mary wooed the crowd with her mellow voice and her mix of American and Irish Country Music. There will also be local talent on the night. Doors open at 8 pm with the show commencing at 8.30 pm sharp.

Your chance to register for Darkness into Light 2026

Darkness into Light 2026 will take place in Roscommon Town on Saturday, May 9th at 4.15 am. Join us for the most important sunrise of the year.

There are just over two weeks to go to this year’s walk, which is the 15th annual Darkness into Light Walk in Roscommon Town.

On Saturday, May 9th at 4.15 am communities from across Ireland and the world will come together to raise vital funds for Pieta’s services. The Roscommon Town venue is Convent of Mercy Gym. You can register via www.darknessintolight.ie

These vital Pieta services help people impacted by suicide and self-harm. They provide supports to those bereaved by suicide. Every step, every donation, every walk, and every community coming together makes a huge difference in the lives of so many. Pieta depends on the funds generated by Darkness into Light, with over 85% of the charity’s annual income coming from public fundraising. Pieta’s 300 qualified therapists, Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officers and support staff across the country rely on this essential income to continue their lifesaving work.

By participating in the event, supporters can make a real and tangible difference, as the sign-

A Roscommon student has won a top prize in this year’s 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition.

Abigail O’Brien (age 16), a pupil at Mercy College Roscommon, has received a Special Merit Award for her work entitled ‘Nanny Mary’ which Final Adjudicator – Irish visual artist, curator and educator – Paul-

up fees for Darkness Into Light can enable Pieta to answer two calls to their 24/7 helpline, providing immediate support and guidance to those in crisis. If you are interested in volunteering to help out on the night, the Roscommon Town Darkness into Light committee would love to hear from you. Please private message the FB page for more details. https://www.facebook. com/DarknessIntoLightRoscommon

The organising committee would like to thank all town businesses for their support of this worthy cause and ask that you help showcase the occasion by decorating your shop windows. Thank you.

ine O’Connell said was “imaginative and demonstrated high levels of skill and creativity”.

No stranger to the competition, Abigail was previously a Special Merit Award winner in 2025.

The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is popularly regarded as the longestrunning sponsorship in the history of arts

sponsoring in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates back to the very first competition, held in 1955.

This year, as has been the case throughout its existence, it has been a platform on which young artists from Roscommon and counties throughout Ireland have had their talents recognised and their creativity commended.

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

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.

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

Road Reference Townland Closure duration Proposed Diversion

L7098 Tonlegee

L-7062-14 Carrowcrin/ Aghamagree

Extended until 15th May 2026

Extended until 15th May 2026

Diversion via L-1806-24 and N63

Diversion via L-1806-24 and N63.

Reason for Closures: Watermain Replacement by Farrans Construction on behalf of Uisce Eireann

Reason for Closures: Watermain Replacement by Farrans Construction on behalf of Uisce Eireann

Mark Keaveney

Mark Keaveney

Director of Services

Director of Services

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

Economic, Planning and Physical Development

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT FUND

2026

1. Standard MD

Fund

The Municipal Districts of Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon are inviting applications from applicants who wish to avail of the above funding subject to terms and conditions.

The funding is available under the following headings:

• Dereliction

• Infrastructure

• Economic & Community Development

• Tourism

2. Town and Village Micro-MD Fund Scheme 2026

The Town and Village Micro Fund Scheme will support small, high impact town and village initiatives such as (a) project development measures (e.g., design, feasibility, consents), or (b) match funding to strengthen applications to larger programmes, subject to terms and conditions.

€25,000 is available in each of the Athlone, Boyle and Roscommon MDs. Up to three projects per MD will be funded.

Eligible Project Types (examples, not exhaustive)

• Town centre public realm improvements, placemaking, accessibility upgrades.

• Feasibility, concept design, planning/Part 8 preparation, surveys, cost plans.

• Amenity and activation projects (way nding, small-scale greening, seating).

• Match funding contributions for active applications to T&V, ORIS, CLÁR, RRDF, URDF, LEADER, etc.

Full details are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie Applications must be made via My Online Services at: https://myonlineservices.roscommoncoco.ie

Before you begin you will be required to register for My Online Services at https://myonlineservices.roscommoncoco.ie or Login (if already registered)

The closing date for receipt of completed online applications is Tuesday, 12th May at 4pm

Incomplete online applications or late online applications will not be considered

Mark Keaveney

Director of Economic, Planning and Physical Development

MyOnline Services – Roscommon County Council

Roscommon County Council online services portal. Report issues, apply for funding and discover local services and information around Co. Roscommon. The link is https://myonlineservices.roscommoncoco.ie

New Folk Club set to open in Roscommon Town

An exciting new entertainment initiative which will appeal to music lovers in the region is being launched next month.

The Hollywood Folk Club will be based at The Hollywood Bar in Roscommon Town, and will feature live music sessions on the second Thursday of each month, beginning in May.

People are invited to become members of the Folk Club, either as a performer or as a prospective audience member with an interest in listening to/viewing live music.

Local musician Michael Banahan and Mags Mullooly, both of whom are involved in the annual Festival Folk concert at the Abbey Hotel, are behind this initiative.

Michael Banahan explains that the Hollywood Folk Club is being established to provide a performance space for artists, and also to cater for people who have an interest in music.

Typically, each session will have a special

guest(s), along with about eight ‘floor singers’ who will also sing on the night.

“This will create an entertainment space where artists can perform” Michael says, adding that the new club is based on an existing Folk Club in Boyle, which was started by musician Donal O’Connor.

Ballyleague Tidy Towns seeking volunteers

Ballyleague Tidy Towns are appealing for help/volunteers over the coming weeks to assist the team in preparing the village for the forthcoming Tidy Towns competition, as well as to make the village tidy and welcoming for the summer.

The group aims to meet at 7 pm on Tuesday evenings, at the old Sliabh Bawn Hotel . All support would be greatly appreciated.

The group will hold their annual general meeting at 8 pm on Wednesday, April 29th, in Ballyleague Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Update from Roscommon Tidy Towns Association

With six weeks to judging for the National Tidy Towns competition, the members of Roscommon Tidy Towns Association are busy preparing for the judges’ visit.

The town is at Gold Medal status in the competition and the members are aiming to improve and gain more points. Everyone can play their part by maintaining their own property.

The members meet on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm outside the old courthouse building on Abbey Street. New members are always welcome to assist with planting flowers, painting and litter picking.

Think tidy. Let’s keep Roscommon clean.

“It will cater for artists in that way, and it will also cater for like-minded people who have an interest in music and who want to listen to artists. There will also be a social side to it of course.”

The first Hollywood Folk Club evening will be held in The Hollywood Bar, Castle Street, Roscommon on Thursday, May 14th (8 pm10 pm, with doors open from 7 pm).

Special guest will be Louise Killeen, an acoustic singer-songwriter from Loughrea, County Galway. Eight floor singers will also perform on the night.

The second Hollywood Folk Club evening will be on Thursday, June 11th, when the special guests will be Mike Hanrahan and Eleanor Shanley.

People can join up as members of the Hollywood Folk Club by emailing hollywoodfolkclub@gmail.com

are (l to r) Cathal McConn (organiser), Dr Martin Daly TD (special guest), Aileen McConn (organiser), and Caroline Rushe, Parkinson’s Ireland Roscommon-Galway area.

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.

Local student awarded All-Ireland Scholarship

A Roscommon student has been awarded an AllIreland Scholarship, which will cover the full duration of their undergraduate studies. Anna Ustymenko was honoured at the All Ireland Scholarships Awards Ceremony on April 4th in University Concert Hall, University of Limerick. Also in attendance at the ceremony was All-

Ireland Scholarships sponsor JP McManus, guest of honour and double Olympic champion Kellie Harrington, Deputy Willie O’Dea TD, and Head of the Skills and Education Group for the Department for the Economy NI Louise Watson, as well as the family, friends, and school representatives of the scholarship recipients.

Roscommon Garden Club meeting

The next meeting of the Roscommon Garden Club will be held in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on Monday, April 27th 2026 at 8 pm. The topic is ‘House Plants’ and the guest speaker is Brendan Dean. Admission for non-members is €10. All are welcome.

Launch of 2026 Ploughing finals

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

Serendipity Lingerie Boutique is a specialist underwear boutique in Roscommon, offering professional bra fittings, stylish lingerie, shapewear and comfortable sleepwear.

A reliable, personalised in-store service which helps women of all ages find high-quality garments that prioritise comfort, confidence and style. NEWEXCITING LABEL FRIDAYTOBEREVEALED 24THAPRIL MiracleWestockAnita,Atir,Chantelle,Elomi,Fantasie, Suit,Panache,Royce,Sloggi,Triumphandanewlabel–afirstforRoscommon whichwillberevealedonFriday24thApril.

Blaithín Burke was pictured at a recent protest in Glenamaddy held as part of a nationwide series of protests over rising fuel prices.

Roscommon SPCA Church gate collection

The Roscommon society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (Roscommon SPCA) will be holding a Church gate collection at Church of Christ The King in Lisacul on Sunday, April 26th. Roscommon SPCA is run by a team of dedicated volunteers, with all money donated going directly towards animal welfare in the county. If you would like to learn more about Roscommon SPCA, please visit roscommonspca.ie.

€100,000 funding for local archaeological monument

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD has announced the awarding of €100,000 to a County Roscommon project under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund. The recipient is Cloonshanville Friary (Frenchpark).

The funding is part of an overall fund of over €8m awarded to 104 heritage projects nationally. These grants help owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future and improve access.

Minister Browne said: “As Minister for Heritage, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to the individuals and community groups in Roscommon who have stepped up to care for their local monuments and volunteered their time, energy and enthusiasm to ensure their conservation.

“I wish all of the award recipients the best of luck in rolling out their projects and I look forward to seeing the progress for myself in the coming months and years.”

Cloonshanville Friary (Frenchpark) has been awarded €100,000 under Stream 1 funding. Under this stream, grants up to €100,000 aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments are available. Exceptional projects may be awarded up to €130,000.

First established in 2020, the Community Monuments Fund supports a range of initiatives to conserve, maintain, protect and promote local monuments and historic sites. This investment safeguards monuments for the benefit of communities and the public.

Still Fabulous at

The Ireland of 1986 was certainly challenging, but the year had some memorable moments and positive milestone events: Knock Airport was officially opened, Lady in Red was topping the charts, Crocodile Dundee was entertaining us in the cinemas and a little field outside Boyle was being transformed into a garden centre.

Forty years ago this spring Ronan O’Conghaile took the brave decision to begin a garden centre between Boyle and Carrick on Shannon, calling it simply and now memorably, after the Ardcarne townland and parish where it is located. From humble beginnings, with just one member of staff, Ardcarne Garden Centre has grown and flourished to become one of Ireland’s leading garden centres and landscaping businesses, employing over 50 passionate team members.

CROWNING THE CUSTOMER

Indeed, guided by Ronan’s unwavering attention to customer care, Ardcarne Garden Centre has become synonymous with enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, a place where you’ll find happy plants and even happier people. Helping Ronan to steer Ardcarne Garden Centre on its successful journey have been Mary Frances Dwyer and her husband Paul, both

Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle is celebrating a milestone 40th Anniversary this spring

employed from the very beginning and now the new owners of Ardcarne Garden Centre.

Mary Frances is keen to point out that ‘Sharing our passion for gardening to help customers achieve the very best from their own homes & gardens throughout the year, has always been part of our journey. We like nothing better than meeting new visitors, finding us for the first time, as well as welcoming back our many regulars, that are like part of the Ardcarne family. As one of the largest employers in the area, Ardcarne Garden Centre also plays an

important role in the community, supporting local jobs and families and hopefully providing a place that can be enjoyed by everyone. We like to think that it is your garden centre as much as ours.’

A GROWING BUSINESS

Following the success of the original Ardcarne Garden Centre near Boyle, a further branch in Roscommon Town was established in 1998, offering the same passionate level of customer care and a place to discover the best in all things gardening.

Since the early days an integral part of the business at Ardcarne Garden Centre has been a thriving and award-winning Landscape, Design and Maintenance department, managed by Paul Dwyer. A diverse range of private gardens and commercial projects have been brought to fruition by the team over the years including The Shed Distillery Drumshanbo, The Sligo Park Hotel, The Céide Fields Visitor Centre, Roscommon-Mayo Hospice and King House in Boyle.

EXPANDING HORIZONS

As with many businesses, an online presence (ardcarne.ie) has become increasingly valuable for Ardcarne Garden Centre. With just a couple of clicks customers

can find inspiring and topical gardening features and browse the exceptional range of top quality plants, gardening products and gifts, all of which can be delivered straight to their home, wherever they live in Ireland.

Of course, nothing is better than a visit to Ardcarne Garden Centre in person and visitors to the Boyle branch can also enjoy the warm & cosy Ardcarne Garden Café, offering delicious homemade food, excellent coffee and scrumptious cakes.

For the last few years the café has helped make Ardcarne Garden Centre a true destination venue, where you can enjoy time out with family and friends, share a wholesome lunch or chat over a coffee and treat (the homemade pear & almond scones are becoming legendary!), all in the beautiful flower filled surroundings.

To mark its special 40th anniversary, a full day of celebrations is taking place at Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle on Saturday 25th April. It promises to be a fun filled occasion with giveaways, amazing offers, live music and much more. Ardcarne Garden Centre may have started its journey during the uncertain times of the 1980’s, but like Knock Airport, it truly has become one of the area’s success stories and continues to soar to ever new heights.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Sky’s close to the limit –but I need it for the sport!

Our columnist Frank Brandon talks Sky TV, local pride on the women’s rugby front, celebrating a birthday with dinner out, and more!

As the country rebels against the cost of our diesel, petrol, and home heating oil, and as the world seems to be on a never-ending path to self-destruction – courtesy of Putin, Trump and Netanyahu – there can be no doubt that the cost of living in Ireland is at an all-time high.

All of our basic food items have increased substantially in price over the last number of months, and the squeezed middle (middle income earners) are finding it harder and harder to survive.

While accepting that everything has to be paid for, and that we now have to cough up for waste disposal, broadband and local property tax – among loads of other things – one thing that annoys me is the huge cost of having Sky TV. I know you will say that it’s a luxury that isn’t needed, but for someone who likes – even loves – sport, it simply can’t be done without!

Every major sporting event has, more or less, been taken over by Sky. And so we pay through the nose for the service, remarkably having resisted the obvious temptation to invest in the massively cheaper dodgy box option. Anyway, for quite some time now our reception at home was desperate – so bad that during the recent Irish World Cup qualifying play-off against Czechia, I had to leave at half-time so I could see the second half in Mikeen’s. And so last Friday afternoon, when we had what seemed like a hurricane out here in Crosswell, a young Sky engineer arrived out to attempt to solve our problem.

I don’t deny that I told him to go home and come back on a different day as the wind coming from the back of

the house was so strong that I could barely stay standing. However he wasn’t giving in, and up he went on his ladders – and despite the strength of the wind he managed to adjust and fix the dish and restore all of our missing stations.

I have to say he went above and beyond the call of duty, and all I can say is fair play to him. As bad as it is to pay a fortune for the service, at least when you can watch it, it’s not too bad.

And so fast-forward to Saturday afternoon, and whether it was on Sky or not I haven’t a clue, but my son Paul managed to get me tuned into the Ireland U-21 rugby game against Italy in Galway – and it was simply remarkable to see three girls who learned their rugby in Creggs representing their country on the highest stage.

Jemima Adams Verling, Roisin Maher and Siofra Hession all came through the Creggs underage system, and while they all play elsewhere now, it was a proud moment to see them all lining out for Ireland.

Talking of Ireland, both teams – the U-21s and senior women’s team – were hugely impressive in their respective games last weekend, and it was fitting given so many players from the west were involved that the games were played in Galway, where the attendance of more than 9,000 at the senior fixture was the biggest ever at any home international!

As it happened, Roisin Maher and Jemima Adams Verling both scored tries for the U-21s and Ballinasloe’s Béibhinn Parsons got three for the seniors, so it was a great day for rugby in East Galway!

It’s taken time, but women’s rugby is now finally getting the recognition it deserves – and our little rural club is playing a big part in its development! Congrats to our three U-21 internationals; I have no doubt we will see them sooner rather than later on the bigger stage… bearing in mind that Jemima is already involved with the senior squad. Here’s to the future!

Tragedy in Louisiana

As Louisiana reels this Monday morning (as I write) from a mass shooting that killed eight innocent young children – and as this is the umpteenth such atrocity in America

– it’s hard to understand how the laws on gun ownership are so lax and how no one seems to want to do much (or anything) about these ongoing terrible incidents.

Bearing in mind that to be regarded as a mass shooting, a minimum of four people must be killed or injured,

the figures for the US are pretty stark. Over the last three years there have been over 1600 mass shootings, with 1900 killings and 7000 serious injuries… and yet nothing is done about the gun laws.

I don’t know why, but when stuff like this is allowed to continue unchecked, it usually comes down to money. Whatever the reason, the town of Shreveport will take a long time to recover from the callous murder of eight young children.

Screene’s still

I have to admit that apart from my odd visit to Cabo Roig in Spain, I very seldom eat out. Usually the odd fish and chips from Hot & Tasty in Creggs is the limit of my culinary extravagance.

But at the weekend, after almost 18 months I found myself back in Jimmy Screene’s bar/restaurant in Guilka.

Last week I had, as my family deemed it, a significant birthday, and the whole lot of us hit for Screene’s for the Sunday lunch. I have told you before how I hold Screene’s in the highest regard on all counts –quality, value, and service – but after such a long absence, and bearing in mind all the negatives about the cost of everything, especially in rural Ireland, I wondered what we would find when we got to Guilka. Ten of us, six adults and four of my grandchildren, made it, and to my great delight there was no visible change to anything!

The place was packed, the food was great, the atmosphere brilliant, and for the two or so hours that we spent there you could forget all about the stuff that was happening outside the door.

I suppose that despite everything, if you give value for money and

supreme!

maintain high quality, you will get the crowds, and I was glad to find that that was still the case in Screene’s. We decided we’d need to go back before my next significant birthday (they happen every five years), as we are all a bit mystified as to how I made it this far! Anyway, we all thoroughly enjoyed it, so well done to all the very friendly and capable staff. See you in a year’s time again, please God!

And finally…

Out here in Creggs, Sheila Beirne has been on to me about a very important date in the calendar for all the fashionconscious ladies from the village and surroundings.

You’re getting plenty of notice to get yourself dolled up, because on October 2nd the Creggs Fashion Show is taking place! So keep that date free; more details will follow, but the exciting news is ye all have a great night to look forward to! Who knows, I might even be modelling myself…

‘Til next week, bye for now

‘Songs that built a Nation’

Upcoming series of Roscommon Solstice concerts

The Roscommon Solstice Choir will present a very special show entitled ‘Songs that built a Nation’ in the Roscommon Arts Centre over three nights in June 2026.

This award-winning choir, which has performed nationally and internationally, has teamed up with wellknown local playwright and historian Tommy Murray to perform concerts on June 4th, 5th and 6th.

Under the title ‘Songs that built a Nation’ the Solstice Choir will present ‘Epic moments of Irish history as told in Ballads, Songs, Poems and Music’.

Based on an original script by Tommy Murray, it will begin with the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798 and conclude with the War of Independence (1920-‘21).

During this traumatic and tumultuous time in our history, Ireland alternated between physical force and constitutional method in seeking independence and freedom. In the midst of all this struggle, the Irish people composed music and wrote poetry and songs which helped to keep the flame of rebellion and resistance alight and lifted the spirits and morale of the nation.

One must never underestimate the power of our musicians, poets and singers as they ‘fought’ in their own way to keep the spirit of freedom alive.

These concerts promise to be a wonderful musical and historical experience set against the rich tapestry that is Ireland’s history during this period.

It’s a show not to be missed.

The venue is Roscommon Arts Centre and the concert dates are June 4th, 5th and 6th (8 pm nightly). Admission is €20. Booking at Roscommon Arts Centre (090 6625824) or via roscommonartscentre.ie

Reader’s appeal: ‘Save the triple lock’

MOTION BEFORE ROSCOMMON COUNCIL MEETING

Dear Editor,

I am writing to you because I am gravely concerned by the Government’s plans to dismantle the triple lock without a mandate to do so.

Polls consistently show 75%-77% of Irish people support Ireland’s current policy on neutrality. Last week, the Government published plans to dismantle the triple lock in its summer legislation programme.

What is the triple lock? It ensures Ireland’s participation in overseas missions (with more than 12 defence personnel) would always require approval from: 1. The Cabinet; 2. Dáil Éireann; and 3. That the mission they are being deployed on would have a UN mandate.

This process of sending the Irish Defence Forces on peacekeeping missions mandated by the UN dates back to 1960 and became known as the ‘triple lock’ during the Nice and Lisbon Treaty referendums.

The triple lock ensures that Irish people do not become cannon fodder in other countries’ wars due to pressure to join EU military structures and NATO-led operations. The UN mandate protects us.

The triple lock does not prevent Ireland from either defending itself or from improving its defence capabilities up to a level that would be reasonable for a country that is genuinely neutral.

As a small island country, we are best protected by remaining neutral and rejecting the current drive towards increased militarism, which benefits no one except the companies and the people who

Big break… invite to join Castlerea Celtic Snooker Club

Castlerea Celtic Snooker Club has just been refurbished and is now open to new members. Membership is €60 per year and it costs €4/hour for the lights.

The club, which has been in existence since April 2004, consists of two full-size Riley snooker tables, each contained within their own rooms (so no bumping into other players when trying to play your shot, and no distractions!). The tables are in perfect condition.

The club is located within the clubhouse of Castlerea Celtic Football Club at the Demesne in Castlerea Town.

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, who was involved in the formation of the snooker club in Castlerea back in 2004, is now inviting new members to join up.

To join Castlerea Celtic Snooker Club, you need to download the Castlerea Celtic app. When you have it downloaded, open up the app. Click on the menu in the bottom righthand corner. Click on ‘memberships’. Choose the ‘join today’ option. Then pick ‘snooker’. Here you can pay the €60 membership with a debit or credit card. Alternatively you can call 086 3685680 and pay by cash. Once you’ve joined, details on how to enter the premises will be shared with the new members.

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, a keen snooker fan for many years, added: “We look forward to seeing you as a member! All are welcome.”

trade in the economy of war. This is not just my opinion, but the opinion of many experts who are calling on the Government not to dismantle the triple lock.

On March 6th, 2025, 409 Irish academics, experts and university workers were “so alarmed by the Government’s decision to approve the scrapping of the triple lock” that they sent an Open Letter to the Taoiseach to register their concern. The full text of this letter can be found here https:// www.pana.ie/posts/open-letter-fromirish-academics-on-triple-lock

These experts said the Government’s main argument for dismantling the triple lock because of the difficulties that exist with the UN Security Council veto over the deployment of Irish Troops overseas is “misleading and incorrect…” and there is “ .. no obvious justification…” for dismantling it.

They also said “...Given the weak arguments for removing the triple lock, we are left to wonder if other motivations are at play, particularly at a time when the Government is also looking to significantly ramp up military spending. If Ireland acts outside the remit of the UN Charter and deploys troops on EU or NATO missions, it may quickly find itself in direct conflict with the world’s most powerful armies, some of which have nuclear warheads at their disposal. For us, it seems clear that the benefits of operating within the UN system far outweigh the risks associated with operating outside it.”

On March 31st, 2026, the Irish experts, academics and university workers sent a second Open Letter to the Taoiseach urging the Government again not to dismantle the triple lock.

The Irish Examiner published a short version of this letter entitled ‘Our

Supported by fruit importer Fyffes and tracked online, the purpose of the competition, launched in December and now in its fifth year, is to promote the importance of exercise, fitness and healthy eating amongst young people.

leaders must show moral courage in commitment to peace’.

A motion has been lodged in Roscommon County Council for Monday, April 27th, asking the County Council to reject the Government’s plans to dismantle the triple lock. Thirteen local authorities have already passed this motion.

Roscommon Neutrality Network recently partnered with Uplift to launch an online petition to allow people to register their objections to the scrapping of the triple lock https:// my.uplift.ie/petitions/roscommoncounty-council-defend-the-triplelock-save-ireland-neutrality

I am asking your readers to please consider signing this petition before April 27th next and if possible to contact your local public representative to voice your concerns.

Yours sincerely,

Breege McCaffrey

Local schools into ‘Ireland’s Fittest’ Connacht final

Four local schools have qualified for the live ‘Connacht final’ of this year’s competition to find Ireland’s Fittest School 2026. Croghan National School near Boyle in County Roscommon is amongst the finalists. The three other schools taking part in the Connacht final – all from County Galway, and all in the Roscommon People readership area – are Ballinderry National School, Tuam; Caltra National School, Ballinasloe; and Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál Ballygar National School.

Supported by fruit importer Fyffes and tracked online, the purpose of the competition, launched in December and now in its fifth year, is to promote the importance of exercise, fitness and healthy eating amongst young people.

The Connacht final will take place at The Hub, Castlerea, County Roscommon, in early May, after which the top school from each of the Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster provincial finals will progress to the grand final in Athlone on May 20th.

Hosted by one of Ireland’s best-known Olympians –sprinter David Gillick – the prize package will include €8,000 worth of sports equipment and the title of ‘Ireland’s Fittest School 2026’. See www.fyffesfittestschool.ie for more detaails.

Historic All-Ireland success for Glenamaddy Players

< PAUL HEALY

It was the greatest night ever in the proud history of amateur drama in the Glenamaddy area. There were emotional scenes in Tyrone last Saturday night

and in Glenamaddy during subsequent celebrations – as Glenamaddy Players made a piece of local theatre history by winning the All-Ireland Confined Drama title for the first time ever.

“We’re shocked, but delighted” the Director of the winning production and Glenamaddy Players’ veteran Coman Keaveny told the Roscommon People earlier this week.

“I’m so delighted for the group and for the community. There’s a 60-year tradition of drama in Glenamaddy, indeed up on 100 years in all… I’m so pleased for all the people who have been involved over the years. Those who have passed on are very much in our thoughts too at this time.”

The group have been performing Chapatti by Christian O’Reilly to great acclaim over recent months. Last Thursday night, they performed the play at the ADCI All-Ireland Confined

Drama Finals in Carrickmore, County Tyrone. When the results were announced on Saturday night, Glenamaddy emerged as the overall winner. This historic success was a

timely reward for perseverance – the Glenamaddy Players have been in the last 12 All-Ireland finals, finishing either second or third in each of the past six years. Glenamaddy Players’ success

sparked jubilant and emotional scenes amongst supporters who had travelled to Tyrone for the ceremony.

Coman Keaveny says it was a very emotional night for all in-

volved. “People have worked so hard for so many years. So it was very emotional when we were announced as the winners. Then on Sunday night there was a phenomenal turnout by the com-

munity back in Glenamaddy.” That show of support on Sunday night included bonfires en route to Glenamaddy, with people from adjoining areas turning out to add their congratulations. There was further recognition for Glenamaddy on Saturday night in the individual categories, with nominations for Coman Keaveny in Best Director, Paraic Newman in Best Actor, and Marie Coneran in Best Actress.

It was Coman who first suggested entering Chapatti – a play with a cast of just two – after he recalled seeing a production of the play well over a decade ago in Galway. Keen to play down his own role, Coman said he was “honoured” to have directed the Glenamaddy Players’ production. He paid tribute to the cast – Marie Coneran and Paraic Newman – and to the entire ‘backstage’ crew.

“I was amazed at the turnout on Sunday night” Coman reflected this week, while also expressing delight that the playwright, Christian O’Reilly was present at those celebrations.

“The level of emotion” he added, “I suppose we weren’t bridesmaids anymore.”

Daly highlights rising grocery costs, warns of growing impact on public health

Dr Martin Daly TD has raised concerns about the continued rise in grocery prices and the increasing pressure this is placing on households across Roscommon-Galway, warning that the issue now extends beyond affordability into long-term public health.

Drawing on his experience as both a GP and a public representative, Dr Daly said the impact is evident in everyday conversations with patients and constituents.

“In my work, both in the Dáil and in my practice, I am hearing a consistent and concerning message… people are finding it increasingly difficult to manage the cost of their weekly shop,” he said.

“For many families and individuals on low to middle incomes, every increase is felt. What was once routine has become a careful balancing act.”

Dr Daly pointed to evidence highlighting a structural imbalance in food affordability.

“Research indicates that healthier foods can be up to three times more expensive per calorie than less healthy alternatives, while ultra-processed foods remain significantly cheaper and more accessible,” he said.

“When households are under pressure, that disparity matters. People are not simply choosing what is healthiest – they are choosing what is affordable, and that is shaping diets in a very real way.”

He warned that this dynamic carries significant implications from a health perspective.

“We are increasingly creating a situation where the healthier choice is the more expensive choice. That inevitably leads to greater reliance on cheaper, more processed foods, with well-established links to poorer longterm health outcomes, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.”

The Fianna Fáil TD noted that while bod-

ies such as the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and An Rialálaí Agraibhia have roles within the sector, responsibility for oversight is spread across different organisations with distinct remits.

“There is a legitimate question as to whether the current framework provides sufficient, consumer-focused monitoring of grocery pricing and food affordability,” he said.

Dr Daly maintained there is now a need for a more focused and coherent approach.

“We should be asking whether there is merit in a more clearly defined, standalone mechanism or watchdog with responsibility for examining grocery pricing, transparency and affordability from the perspective of the consumer,” he said.

“That is a discussion worth having, given the scale of the pressures now being experienced by ordinary households.”

Scahill praises Gardaí after convictions for 2024 burglaries

A Fine Gael senator has applauded the work of Gardaí in Roscommon following the conviction of two men after a spate of burglaries in 2024.

Senator Gareth Scahill said, “In 2024, communities across Roscommon took to the streets in large numbers to highlight the impact of these crimes and calling for action. This conviction is an important moment for the victims and wider community, as following their apprehension in November 2024, there was a noticeable decrease in incidents.”

the Gardaí involved in the investigation, stating their work demonstrates the commitment and professionalism of local officers.

Senator Scahill commended

“I would like to commend the local Gardaí involved in the investigation of the high volume of burglaries which

occurred across Roscommon and neighbouring counties throughout 2024 especially”, he said.

Prison Sentence

“Three individuals were apprehended in November 2024, and on Thursday last, two of those received lengthy prison

sentences at Sligo Circuit Court. The third man will receive his sentence in the coming months.

“The burglaries that were being investigated caused untold anxiety and trauma for the victims of these crimes, and the communities in general at the time. There had been a steep reduction in burglaries in the region since November 2024.”

Senator Scahill said the outcome of the case reflects the determination of local Gardaí to protect the public and ensure accountability.

STROKESTOWN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL

Strokestown International Poetry Festival 2026 announces line-up for May Bank Holiday weekend

The Strokestown International Poetry Festival 2026 will take place over the May Bank Holiday weekend from Friday, May 1st (Poetry Day Ireland), to Sunday, May 3rd, in the beautiful sylvan setting of Strokestown Park House, County Roscommon.

Ireland’s longest-running poetry festival, now in its 5th year under the direction of Joe Woods, will present a vibrant programme featuring a diverse mix of local, national, and international voices.

Festival-goers can look forward to bilingual readings, book launches, film screenings, workshops, and a lively open-mic and music night.

More than 30 poets will appear over the course of the weekend, with additional guest poets to be confirmed. Books by all

participating authors, representing more than 15 publishers, will be available throughout the festival at the on-site Salmon Bookshop.

Festival highlights include a gala reading celebrating Salmon Poetry’s 45th anniversary (featuring five of Salmon’s acclaimed poets: Rachael Hegarty, Joan McBreen, Jessamine O’Connor, Nessa O’Mahony, and Adam Wyeth), a workshop and reading by the supremely talented Sheffield poet Helen Mort, the launch of the final issue of Cyphers No. 100 (the influential literary journal published since 1975), poetry films screening from contemporary Irish poets and performers in association with the Adrian Brinkerhoff Poetry Foundation, and announcement of competition results as well as readings by the shortlisted poets

Amy Barry, Marian Brannigan, Catherine Ann Cullen, Conor McAnally, and Tom Noon.

The Joan McBreen Keynote Address will be delivered this year by Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin, who will speak about readers of poetry.

The shortlisted poems can be read here: strokestownpoetryfest.ie/ strokestown-international-poetryprize-2026-shortlisted-poems/.

The festival continues its long tradition of celebrating poetry in a convivial and welcoming setting, bringing together established and emerging writers with readers from across Ireland and abroad.

Further festival details and weekend tickets (offering exceptional value at €50) are now available at strokestownpoetryfest.ie.

Friday 1 – Sunday 3 May 2026

Friday, 1 May

7:00 PM | Café

Poetry Reading & Festival Launch

Moya Cannon, Louise G. Cole, Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan

8:30 PM | Café

Traditional Quartet: Rithim

Admission: €15 inclusive

9:30 PM | Compton’s Central Bar

Open Mic & Music Night

Admission: Free

Sunday, 3 May

11:00 AM | Stables Poetry Films (Adrian Brinkerhoff Foundation),

Curated by Luke Morgan

Admission: Free

12:15 PM | Stables

Launch:

Cyphers 100 (Final Issue)– 50 Years Celebration

Admission: Free

2:00 PM | Stables Reading & Launch

Aifric Mac Aodha, Philip McDonagh, Michael O’Loughlin

Admission: €10

4:30 PM | Stables Poetry Competition

Winner announced by Rachael Hegarty

Admission: Free

7:30 PM | Café Poetry Reading

Dermot Bolger, Jaki McCarrick, Helen Mort

Admission: €10

Saturday, 2 May

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Attic Poetry Workshop: On Good Form – Helen Mort

Admission: €60 (booking essential)

11:30 AM | Stables New Work (Lapwing, Macha & Revival Press) Patrick Dillon, Susanna Galbraith, Margaret O’Driscoll

Admission: €8

2:00 PM | Stables Turlough Poetry Collective

Edel Burke, Susie Fry, Peggy Gallagher, Winifred McNulty, Ger Reidy, Jean Tuomey; Diarmaid Moynihan (uilleann pipes)

Admission: €10

4:30 PM | Stables Joan McBreen Lecture

Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin, On Readers of Poetry

Admission: Free

7:30 PM | Café

45 Years of Salmon Poetry

Rachael Hegarty, Joan McBreen, Jessamine O’Connor, Nessa O’Mahony, Adam Wyeth

Admission: €10

Celebrating 45 years of Salmon Poetry

Onsite Festival Bookseller: The Salmon Bookshop

STROKESTOWN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL

https://strokestownpoetryfest.ie/

Featured Speakers

Moya Cannon was born in Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal. Her seventh collection, Bunting’s Honey (Carcanet Press) received a UK Poetry Book Society recommendation.

Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan is an Irish-Indian writer, performer, and cultural consultant, published by Banshee, Stinging Fly, Poetry Ireland Review, and others. She has been artist-in-residence for several science initiatives and is a Skein Press Play it Forward Fellow.

Louise G Cole’s poetry has been described (by Dermot Bolger) as: ‘Sharp-edged and sharp-witted, richly humane and darkly humorous’.

The Strokestown International Poetry Competition is delighted to announce the shortlist for this year’s competition, judged by acclaimed poet Rachael Hegarty.

The following five poems and poets have been selected and are presented here, listed in alphabetical order: Amy Barry –A House of Daughters; Marian Brannigan – The Strayaway Child; Catherine Ann Cullen –The Mother; Conor McAnally – Kindred Spirits; Tom Noone –Kingfisher.

Rachael Hegarty, this year’s judge, commented: “What a delight to read the near 700 entries for the Strokestown

International Poetry Competition – proof positive that poetry is alive and well on and off the island of Ireland.

“What a bittersweet honour to have to choose only five poems out of a treasure trove of wondrous poetic forms, singsong metres and a grand variety of topics. However, the five finalists shone brighter in their image-rich forms and enchanted this reader with their musicality.”

All five poets will be invited to read on Sunday, May 3rd at the Strokestown International Poetry Festival where judge Rachael Hegarty will announce the winner.

BEST WISHES TO STROKESTOWN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL FROM

Five finalists in 2026 Strokestown International Poetry Competition

Roscommon groups in All-Ireland Scór

Sinsir Finals this weekend

Roscommon has excellent representation at this Saturday’s All-Ireland Scór Sinsir Final in the TF Theatre in Castlebar. Having contested strongly in all eight disciplines at Connacht level and winning the Cormac McGill Cup for the county with best participation and victories, the Rossies will look to complete a wonderful Scór campaign with national silverware.

Early in the day, Elphin GAA first take up the baton for Roscommon as they vie for their place in the stage heat of the tráth na gceist (table quiz) category. This competition is initially run off as a table quiz amongst twelve qualifiers, three from each province.

With a proven pedigree in this event, Ephin will hope to emulate the club’s very first All-Ireland Scór title for tráth na gceist, won back in 1972. The Orchard Park men enjoyed a great win at

Connacht level and the team – consisting of Mick Rock, Colm Beirne, Mattie Hynes, and Micheál Gunn – will be aiming high to go one further!

Saturday will be a very special day for the St Michael’s GAA Club as they make their maiden voyage in the AllIreland bailéad ghrúpa (ballad group) decider. Aoife and Ronan Guckian, Chloe McGuinness, Sorcha Gilboy, and Niamh Reynolds have been taking part for their club right the way up from Scór na bPáistí to Scór na nÓg, and onto senior level, and so their journey to the national final has really blazed a trail and is testament to their perseverance.

St Michael’s have been loyal Scór participants over the decades and this talented young group will hope they can emulate their club’s last All-Ireland Scór win, which came in the nuach-

leas (novelty act) category way back in 1974.

St Dominic’s will take to the stage as reigning All-Ireland champions in that same nuachleas (novelty act) category on Saturday. Perennial participants at the national level of Scór, the Knockcroghery group of Laura Leonard, Sylvia Kilcline, Tommy Hurley, Kathy Dervan, Mary Ann Philips, Noel Dervan and Anne Gillespie, have nothing to prove, but will hope their sketch can make it a two-in-a-row of All-Ireland Scór titles!

Coiste Scór agus Cultúir, CLG Ros Comáin, would like to extend their best wishes to all the county’s representatives as they fly the flag in Castlebar. To have such strong Roscommon presence at the finals is a wonderful achievement in itself!

Na Rosaithe Abú!

Sheehy Meares Team Earley close sale

Essex Grove residence

Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team Earley is pleased to advise that he has closed the sale of 4 Essex Grove, Castle Street, Roscommon Town – a delightful, two-bedroomed, semi-detached bungalow, brimming with charm and warmth.

Ideally nestled in a peaceful estate, yet just a stone’s throw from all the wonderful amenities the town has to offer, this home is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Inside, a welcoming hallway leads to two bright and airy bedrooms, a cosy sitting room, and an open-plan dining/kitchen area, where the back door opens to reveal a generous and private rear garden – an ideal space for relaxing or entertaining. The property is

bathed in natural light, enhancing its inviting atmosphere, while the small lawn and private parking to the front add to its charm.

Sheehy Meares Team Earley would like to extend their congratulations and best wishes to the new owners.

Sheehy Meares Team Earley would also like to advise that they are now urgently seeking similar houses in the Roscommon Town area for disappointed underbidders.

For further details or to book a free valuation, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, Roscommon) on 090 66 26579, email info@sheehymeares.ie, log onto sheehymeares.ie, or contact auctioneer Keith directly on 086 0848590.

Meares Team Earley, in joint agency with Pat Hughes Auctioneers, is seeking final offers for an attractive residential farm extending to approximately 34.71 acres, located at Oakfield, Cloonrane and Killukin, Strokestown, County Roscommon.

This well-situated property offers excellent flexibility and may be sold as one entire holding or in a number of individual lots, making it suitable for farmers, investors, or those seeking a rural lifestyle property.

The dwelling is a traditional, slated, storey-and-a-half-style residence, set in a quiet, rural setting, with the benefit of outbuildings to the rear. The downstairs accommodation comprises an entrance

hallway with staircase off, a sitting room with open feature fireplace, a living room with solid fuel stove. and a kitchen. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms, a main bathroom incorporating shower, a hot press, and a balcony area. The property is serviced by an oil-fired central heating (OFCH) system, water, septic tank, and ESB. The BER rating is G. Externally, the residence enjoys a pleasant setting and may be sold standing on approximately one acre with outbuildings, or alternatively with additional lands extending the holding to approximately 15.93 acres.

The lots are laid out as follows: Lot 1 comprises the entire holding (residence

with approximately 34.71 acres), Lot 2 comprises the residence on circa 15.59 acres with outbuildings, Lot 3 comprises the residence on circa 1 acre with outbuildings, Lot 4 comprises roadside lands of circa 14.59 acres, Lot 5 comprises roadside lands of circa 3.18 acres, and Lot 6 comprises roadside lands of circa 15.93 acres with shed. The lands are laid out in manageable divisions, with portions enjoying road frontage, enhancing their agricultural and future potential (subject to planning). The property is suitable for a variety of agricultural uses and offers an excellent opportunity to acquire quality land in a sought after and renowned farming district.

ROSCOMMON & GALWAY

• In Two Separate Lots Adjacent Each Other

• Handling Facilities (Pen & Crush) & Mains Water

For further information & to arrange a viewing contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 090 6617000 or 086 171 3417, E: sales@bradleyhomes.ie.

Phone: 09066 17000 • Mobile: 086 171 3417 Email: sales@bradleyhomes.ie Creggs, Co. Galway F42K802 www.bradleyhomes.ie

Investment at local Coillte recreational sites welcomed

Recreation forests and amenities in Roscommon are set to benefit from additional funding, a Fine Gael senator has said. €3m in funding has been announced from the Department of Community, Rural and the Gaeltacht, as part of the final year of its strategic partnership with Coillte. The investment in 2026 includes €3.13m for new trail infrastructure and ongoing maintenance at 224 sites around the country. Of this funding, €2m will be used to facilitate ongoing maintenance and associated supports at over 200 recreational sites across the country, while €1.1m is being provided to support the development of new recreation amenities and upgrades of existing facilities at 20 sites nationwide. This is the final year of a 5-year partnership that has seen over €16m invested in Coillte recreation sites.

Senator Gareth Scahill said: “Our nature trails and parks are a source of huge pride in Roscommon and bring so much enjoyment, not to just the people who live here, but they attract visitors to our area. This additional funding will go a long way towards ensuring facilities are of the highest standard and I also look forward to seeing what additional projects may be delivered to enhance our recreational offering.”

Minister of State for Community Development and Charities Jerry Buttimer said: “The positive impact recreation in the outdoors has on our physical and mental wellbeing must never be underestimated. Our partnership with Coillte is much valued and I look forward to working with the organisation in the coming months to develop a new strategic partnership from 2027.”

C. 13.65 acres hits the market near Williamstown

If you’re in the market for solid ground that’s easy to handle, this will catch your eye!

A compact, but seriously well laid out circa 13.65acre holding at Springfield, Williamstown, has come to the market through Bradley Homes. Split into two clean divisions directly opposite each other, this is practical, no-nonsense ground in a strong farming area where land is always in demand.

The larger block (circa 8.45 acres) comes with a pen and crush, as well as water supply. It’s ready for use straight away, suited to grazing or as a practical addition to an existing holding. Across the road, the circa 5.20 acre field is tidy, well-shaped, and easy to manage. Both fields are in grass, with long, workable runs, defined boundaries, and no awkward corners or wasted ground. It’s the sort

of layout farmers appreciate; easy to manage and easy to access!

The lands also enjoy a good location, approximately 2km from Williamstwon, 11km to Glenamaddy with Castlerea and Ballyhaunis within a comfortable reach. Springfield is right in the middle of an active farming district, with marts, suppliers, and services all close by.

This holding will suit adjoining farmers looking to add quality ground, expanding operators who want manageable, productive acres and/or buyers seeking a clean, compact holding without complications.

For maps, further details or to arrange inspection, contact Deirdre at Bradley Homes on 090 66 17000 or 086 171 3417, or email sales@bradleyhomes.ie.

HALS Roscommon Leases Project celebrates milestone anniversary

This year, the HALS (Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies) research project in Roscommon Library celebrates two years in existence. This acclaimed initiative has greatly increased the store of knowledge regarding local land leases in Roscommon following five years of extensive research.

This considerable project involves the reading and transcribing of leases (dating from 1630) relating to lands at Roscommon Town and surrounding areas. The original leases were held by the Earls of Essex at Cassiobury House in Hertfordshire, in England, and are now held by HALS.

The local project group have entered an agreement with Roscommon County Council that the leases will be accessible through Roscommon County Libraries when the project is complete. Many of the earlier leases come from the Earl of Ranelagh’s

family at ‘Ranelagh House’ in Chelsea.

Some of the leases transcribed to date cover areas such as Clooneen, Gallowstown, Main Street in Roscommon, Goff Street, Cruby Hill, Carrowmore, Tonlegee, Cloonygormican, Runnamote, Ballypheasan, Cloonybeirne, Derrineel, Cashelmeaghan, Lisgobban, Ardsallaghbeg and Lord’s Meadow.

Some of the leases transcribed include family names such as: Bermingham, Brown, Conlon, Connor, Croghan, Downes, Duffe, Geraghty, Gunning, Hinde, Hopkins and Kelly.

The project has revealed that the names of many Roscommon townlands were changed by the Ordnance Surveyors in the 1830s and has discovered the names of the families leasing the land, the conditions applied and the duration of the leases.

A team of volunteers have been transcribing the leases in Roscommon Library on Mondays on a fortnightly basis.

If one loves their local history and is interested in volunteering for this ongoing project, contact the Roscommon Volunteer Centre at info@volunteerroscommon.ie or by phoning 0892199930 or 089-4008332.

Two typical leases include one which relates to a site on Pudding Street (now Goff Street) in 1807 when Thomas Keary rented a plot with a 94-foot frontage and was required to build four cottages.

Each of these cottages featured two windows and a door to the street, to be leased to sub-tenants. These cottages no longer exist. A further lease relates to George Maltby selling land and to Roger Viscount Ranelagh in 1630.

Daffodil Day 2026 in Roscommon: A thank you

As another successful Daffodil Day comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make this year’s event so meaningful and we gratefully acknowledge receipt of €26,332.08. The generosity, community spirit, and hard work shown by so many truly brought the day to life.

We are deeply grateful to Paul and staff of JJ Harlow’s who contributed to the

successful launch allowing us to host the Coffee Morning and also to David and the Harlow family for the generous use of their premises as a depot for Daffodil Day. Their kindness and community spirit played a vital role and was much appreciated.

Daffodil Day is built on the kindness and generosity of people, and once again this was clear to see. A special word of thanks goes to all of our won-

derful volunteers, without whom the day simply wouldn’t be possible.

Thank you to Niall and the Transition Year students from the Convent of Mercy, whose enthusiasm and energy on Daffodil Day made an enormous difference. Their willingness to volunteer their time collecting for such an important cause is a credit to both themselves and their school.

Finally, to everyone who volunteered,

Safety Information Morning for older people in Roscommon

A free Roscommon Safety Information Morning will take place on Wednesday, April 29th from 10 am to 1 pm at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon (F42 F992). This event will provide vital safety advice, information and practical supports for people aged 55 years and over. The event is organised by Roscommon County Council’s Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) and the county’s Age Friendly Programme.

The initiative will bring together key agencies to help people feel safer and more confident in their homes, on roads, and in their daily lives.

Attendees will hear directly from a range of guest speakers from leading safety organisations, including advice from An Garda Síochána, who will offer guidance on personal safety, home safety and how to avoid scams.

Also present on the day will be representatives of

Roscommon Fire Services, providing advice on fire safety in the home and the Road Safety Authority (RSA), who will share information on staying safe on the roads as drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

As well as talks, there will be information stands offering resources, guidance and support services relevant to older people and their families. The event is free and open to anyone who wishes

to learn more about personal safety, home safety, fire prevention and road safety. No booking is required.

People aged 55 years and over are encouraged to attend and take advantage of practical advice and information available on the day. The event follows a series of recent successful public safety seminars organised by the Roscommon LCSP, held in Boyle, Roscommon and Monksland.

New appointment at Roscommon Injury Unit

Roscommon University Hospital recently announced the appointment of Méabh Casey as Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in Emergency Nursing at Roscommon Injury Unit.

In her new role, Méabh provides comprehensive, autonomous care across the full patient pathway, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, prescribing, referral, follow-up and discharge. She is responsible for the clinical management of a wide range of injuries in patients aged over five years, essentially nonlife-threatening and non-limb-threatening injuries and non-complex soft tissue injuries including sprains and strains, suspected fractures of the arm or leg, minor scalds and burns, cuts and lacerations, and the removal of foreign objects from the nose, eyes and ears. After graduating from University College

Dublin (UCD) with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nursing in 2011, Méabh began her career as a Staff Nurse in the Emergency Department at the Mater Hospital, Dublin.

After six years at the Mater Hospital, Méabh relocated closer to her home in Moate, County Westmeath, where she joined the Emergency Department at the Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. She later progressed to the role of Clinical Nurse Manager.

Méabh joined Roscommon University Hospital in 2023 as a Candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Nursing. During her two-year candidacy, Méabh completed a Master of Science in Advanced Practice (Nursing) at the University of Galway, enabling her to register and practise as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

donated fresh daffodils, purchased a daffodil, or supported the event in any way, thank you.

Together, we continue to make a difference for those affected by cancer, and we are deeply grateful for your support. As there are too many people to be mentioned individually, we hope you will accept this acknowledgement and our grateful appreciation.

Last, but by no means least, we

extend a big thank you to the Editor and staff of the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald, the staff of Shannonside/Northern Sound, and Roscommon Parish Newsletter for all the free written, verbal and photographic coverage given to the various events.

With thanks,

Sonya Raftery, Local Voluntary Organiser

Government ‘sleepwalking’ into special education crisis – Kerrane

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway, Claire Kerrane, has claimed that the Government is sleepwalking into the “worst ever” crisis in special education this September.

Her comments come as Sinn Féin brings forward a Dáil motion this week calling for an urgent and fundamental shift in how the State provides for children with additional educational needs.

Deputy Kerrane said: “The Government is heading straight into yet another crisis, in what has become an annual cycle of prolonged dread, anxiety and disappointment for families. The State is systematically failing children with additional educational needs.

“There is a chronic shortage of appropriate school places. Some children are being forced to travel long distances, while others have no choice but to stay at home due to the lack of an appropriate place for them, a flagrant breach of their constitutional rights.

“Despite a longer run-in time this year to facilitate planning, we are heading into another calamitous situation.

“Sinn Féin has serious concerns about the redesignation of general learning disability schools, the provision of SNAs and the concentration of new special classes almost exclusively in ASD provision, with very few new classes catering

for children with mild general learning disabilities or language disorders, which require different educational supports and approaches.

“Instead of ramping up provision, the Government’s approach appears to be one of rationing – whether through the redesignation of Mild General Learning Disability (MGLD) classes or the creation of a new category of ‘inclusive special class’ with higher pupil numbers but no commensurate increase in supports.”

Deputy Kerrane said these changes are happening without consultation and “without regard for the varying needs of children.”

The TD added: “The Government has adopted a cut by stealth approach. They have shown little regard for SNAs, teachers and children in the sector and they are sleepwalking into the worst ever crisis in special education this September.

“Sinn Féin is calling for an AllParty Oireachtas Committee on the Future of Inclusive Education to be established – a ‘Sláintecare Committee for Inclusive Education’.

“This would be a forum to hear from parents, students, SNAs, teachers, therapists, school leaders and advocacy groups – with an aim to propose a clear roadmap for a new and better approach to how we provide inclusive education in Ireland.”

Historical return of the Kiltoom diaspora

The forthcoming visit of a group of American families to Kiltoom, from April 25th to May 5th, and who will be in Athlone from May 2nd, will mark a deeply moving and historic homecoming.

These families, descendants of emigrants, will walk once more upon the land of their ancestors – many for the first time since their great-greatgrandfather and his siblings departed Kiltoom between the 1830s and the years of the Great Famine, including the tragic period remembered as Black ’47.

At the heart of this story is Patrick Rattigan of Lisbaun, one of a large family born to Bernard (known locally as Byran) Rattigan and Margaret Kelly of Lisbaun/Feamore in Kiltoom. Patrick emigrated at approximately 15 years of age, part of the early waves of emigration from Kiltoom and County Roscommon in the years preceding the Great Famine, during a time of profound hardship in Ireland and in the aftermath of the rebellion of 1798.

Patrick’s journey was arduous. Like many of his contemporaries, Patrick likely made his way to Dublin – whether by coach or on foot – before boarding a vessel to Liverpool, and from there crossing the Atlantic to New York, eventually settling in Boston. There, he married Mary Curley, believed to have been from Kiltoom. Following her untimely death, he remarried, his new wife being Mary Cunniffe, also thought to share Kiltoom roots.

From these uncertain beginnings, Patrick’s family endured, prospered, and flourished. His descendants became educated, industrious, and resilient, ultimately spreading across the United States, with many settling in Seattle and throughout Washington State.

This journey is a powerful testament to the endurance and determination of the sons and daughters of the Kiltoom

and South Roscommon diaspora –those who, driven by necessity, left their homeland during dark and challenging times, yet carried its spirit with them across generations. Their return today stands as a poignant and ‘full circle’ testimony: from exile to homecoming.

One of the most meaningful aspects of this visit is the dedication of these families to tracing their lineage and preserving their heritage. Their efforts have led them back to the beloved Kiltoom of Bernard and Margaret Rattigan (nee Kelly), who are laid to rest in the old Kiltoom graveyard on the Strevans Estate. Margaret is believed to have been buried around 1840, and Bernard circa 1860. Remarkably, their headstone still stands – a silent witness to history and a focal point for remembrance.

During their visit, the group will undertake a historical tour of what might be described as the ‘Kiltoom Triangle,’ encompassing Curramore, Feamore, Lisbaun, and the surrounding townlands – places deeply interwoven with their family story.

Leading the group is Michelle Rattigan Webb, accompanied by six of her first cousins. This journey is undertaken in honour of her late father, Mike Rattigan of Ephrata, Washington –a respected rancher, developer, building contractor, businessman, and dedicated community figure – who passed away last year and sadly did not live to make this return himself.

John Rattigan of Curramore represents the only branch of the family that remained rooted in Kiltoom. He was a granduncle of Michelle’s grandfather, John Rattigan, who later became a rancher in Washington State. Another descendant, Thomas, pursued a distinguished career as a doctor, establishing a medical practice in Seattle, while Austin Heath of New Jersey, the great-great-grandson of Michael and Bridget Connolly (both of Lisbaun), currently holds lectureships at Princetown and John Hopkins universities. Austin visited Kiltoom recently and met a great welcome with his great-great-grandmother Bridget Connolly’s people of Lisbaun. For those who emigrated, life in Boston presented immense challenges. Navigating the realities of a rapidly expanding city – and at times its harsher undercurrents – required resilience, courage, and determination. By all accounts, the Rattigans, Connollys, Killions, Farrells, Mees, Melias, all of Kiltoom family origins who emigrated at that time, met these challenges with integrity and strength, building lives of purpose and success.

This return to Kiltoom is more than a visit – it is a reconnection with identity, heritage, and place. It is a tribute to those who left, those who remained, and those who now return, carrying with them the enduring legacy of their ancestors.

Patrick Rattigan’s siblings also formed part of this wider emigrant story. His younger brother John remained in Ireland, living in Curramore with his wife Anne Heavey of Corraclough, where they raised their family. Other siblings, including Michael and Bridget Connolly of Lisbaun, emigrated to Boston, as did Ellen Rattigan and her husband Thomas Killian (or Killion) of Curraclough. Further connections extend to Sarah (also Boston), and possibly to Thomas – believed to have links to Sligo or California – whose descendants may have established a holiday resort and later confirmed family ties through DNA testing. The whereabouts of their sister Margaret and her journey has remained a mystery, but it is believed that she also emigrated.

The visitors are looking forward to saying hello, chatting and meeting any of their distanced relatives and friends from Kiltoom and Athlone during their short visit.

All are invited to a welcoming night of traditional and Irish folk music which is planned for Saturday night, May 2nd in St Brigid’s GAA Centre where a céad míle fáilte in true Kiltoom style will be extended to the visitors.

ICMSA hit out at ‘monstrous volume’ of imported beef’

The Chairperson of ICMSA’s Livestock Committee, Michael O’Connell has described as “downright disturbing” detailed figures released by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine showing that over 40,000 tonnes of beef was imported into Ireland last year, the equivalent of 118,000 steers, based on average carcass weight.

Mr O’Connell said that given that Ireland produced seven times more beef than it consumed, legitimate questions had to be asked about why anyone would need to import beef in any notable quantities. He added that those questions would only multiply as people realised that the largest single source of this beef being imported into Ireland was Great

Britain, which was also the single biggest export market for Irish beef.

Mr O’Connell said something about this data did not add up and farmers –and anyone else with an interest in the sector – were entitled to ask where these 40,000 tonnes were going, how it was being sold and consumed and who was bringing it in?

“The Department has again confirmed that

Castlerea MART WATCH

Cattle: There were over 600 lots presented for sale on Thursday last, April 16th, with store cattle in particular a very lively trade, despite the poor weather conditions at the time and poor growth.

Weanling bulls and weanling heifers both exceeded €7.00 a kilo, with excellent demand on o er. The heifer ring reported a steady trade, with slight improvement in prices.

Cows with calves at foot made up to 3350 and springers made up to €2760, while dry cows peaked at €2980. There were bigger numbers of calves presented for sale last week, with exporters and farmers contributing to a ne clearance while runners remained a rm trade.

Heifers, sample prices: Ch 315kgs €1690, Lm 370kgs €1620, Ch 490kgs €2530, Ch 465kgs €2340, AA 450kgs €2170, AA 700kgs €2920, Lm 600kgs €2640, Lm 605kgs €2610, and Ch 595kgs €2610.

Dry cows, sample prices: Ch 750kgs €2980, LM 595kgs €2450, Ch 595kgs €2450, Lm 410kgs €1820, Ch 665kgs €2190, and

there were 40,910 tonnes of beef imported in 2025: the equivalent to 118,000 of Irish steers based on the average carcass weight for steers in 2025 of 346kg. That would equate to an extra 2,300 cattle per week that processors would have needed to purchase and slaughter.

“The very first question that arises is why you’d need to import so much beef into a country that exports over 90% of what it produces? That produces multiples of what it consumes? The second question is who is responsible for the importation of this product, and we better not be fobbed off with this latest nonsense that this is ‘commercially sensitive information’ or that phrase’s new variant, that this part

Lm 735kgs €2610.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Ch 280kgs €1980, Lm 275kgs €1930, Ch 290kgs €1920, Ch 270kgs €1710, Ch 360kgs €2280, Ch 375kgs €2480, Ch 350kgs €2130, and Ch 485kgs €2200.

Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 285kgs €1800, Ch 270kgs €1800, Lm 263kgs €1790, Sim 315kgs €2440, AA 285kgs €1480, Lm 300kgs €2010, Sim 325kgs €2000, Lm 405kgs €1900, and Ch 400kgs €2190.

Bullocks: At the recent bullock sale held on Monday, April 13th, quality store bullocks made up to €5.34 a kilo while heavier lots topped out at €3040.

Sample prices: Ch 490kgs €2480, Ch 415kgs €2220, Hex 480kgs €2140, AA 515kgs €2550, AA 525kgs €2320, AA 580kgs €2860, Lm 585kgs €2790, Ch 630kgs €2960, AA 725kgs €3040, and Lm 680kgs €2980.

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 sales commence at 11 am.

Roscommon MART WATCH

Cattle: There was a good entry of stock on o er at the cattle sale held on Friday, April 17th, 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 €5.90 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows and they made an average of €3.33 per kilo up to €3.96

- €4.52 per kg, and LJX – 607.5KG - €2750 - €4.53 per kg.

Sheep: There was a good entry of sheep on o er at the sheep sale held on Wednesday, April 15th. Prices for hoggets made up to €226, while stag ewes topped out at €276. 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 if you cannot attend.

Hoggets, sample prices: 53.6kgs - €262€4.89 per kg, 53.5kgs - €240 - €4.49 per kg, 59kgs - €238 - €4.03 per kg, 53.4kgs - €234 - €4.38 per kg, 59.2kgs - €233 - €3.94 per kg, and 60.2kgs- €233- €3.87 per kg. Cast ewes, sample prices: 78kgs

of a ‘contingency plan’.

“There have always been rumblings of imported beef, but the figures are startling and disturbing in equal measure. 2025 was the best year on record for a long time for beef farmers but – by the looks of it – it could have been better if not for the monstrous volume of imported beef brought into Ireland”, said Mr O’Connell.

Springtime in Roscommon…

Classifieds

GARDENING

(LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.)

TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon www.trailerfix.ie

you a ected byAnger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Con dence/self-esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Contact: Billy 094 96 59966 Mobile: 086 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

FENCING/GATES FOOT

Telephone: 086 8433433 Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland VHI and Laya Covered

Certi ed Arborists

Wood Chipping

Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

Insurance Cover. I.S.A.

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

PAINTING/DECORATING

PODIATRIST

Tullys

Podiatrist/ Chiropodist

SARAH FLEMING

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys

Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

● HSE Trained and Approved

● Home visits available

For any of your foot issues call: 094 9620009

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

CORU Registered

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

Department of Health Approved KEARNEY’S

Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment, phone: (089) 4142233 • 20 years

GARDENING www.westside-gardening.com

GARDENING: Lawns mowed and seeded, Leylandi and Laurel Hedge Cut and Shaped, Tree Felling, Fencing, Posts and Panels, Decorative Stone, Bark Mulch, Power Washing and Waste Removal.

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.

FAMILY NOTICES

NEILAN

Kathleen Muff, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

Who passed away 29th April 2015

You were always there with a willing hand to listen, advise and understand. Your pleasures were small, and wants were few, if your family were happy, so were you.

Sadly missed by her husband Christy and family.

COYNE

John James Milltown, Dysart, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

In Loving Memory of John James who died on 24th April 2014. Twelve years have passed Yet still your name Comes gently to the mind. You haven’t been forgotten By those you left behind.

Gone from our sight

But never our hearts.

Missed more than words can say.

Remembered by all of us

Each and every day.

Remembered with love and prayers by your sister Margaret, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday 25th April at 7.30pm.

ADAMS

(Née Regan)

Bernadette

Carrowbehy, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Bernadette’s husband Joe, her son Michael, Michael’s partner Róisín, her sisters Dolores, Loretto, Annette, Imelda and Mary, her sisters-in-law Chris and Anne, and all her extended family wish to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us throughout Bernadette’s illness and at the time of her passing.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Bernadette’s wonderful neighbours and friends, and to her colleagues, past and present, from GRETB, for their kindness and support.

A special word of thanks to the doctors and nurses of Galway and Mayo University Hospitals, the sta of Kelly Henry Medical Centre, Gráinne and Cormac and the team at Murphy’s Pharmacy, and to the carers, nurses, Palliative Care Team, and the Irish Cancer Society who cared so compassionately for Bernadette in her home.

We are deeply grateful to the Community Centre Committee and Una Groarke for the food provided, to those who prepared the church, those who organised parking and tra c management, and to everyone who brought food and refreshments to our home.

Thank you to all who sent Mass cards, messages of sympathy, called to the house, and travelled long distances to be with us – it meant so much during a very di cult time.

Our thanks also to Fr Yashin and Fr Donnelly, and to all who participated in making Bernadette’s Funeral Mass such a beautiful and meaningful celebration.

We would like to express our appreciation to Funeral Directors Martin and Martina Gavin for their professionalism, care, and guidance.

As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as a sincere expression of our deep gratitude. A Mass will be o ered for your intentions.

Bernadette’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 2nd May at 12 noon in St Mary’s Church, Gorthaganny, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

RAFTERY

(née Lynch)

Abbeytown, Roscommon and 38 Irishtown, Athlone (27th Anniversary occurs on the 28th of April)

KILCLINE

Mike

Bracknagh, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon. (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mike who passed away on 29th April 2021. Special memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way, Have special thoughts of you today.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your wife Evelyn and son Michael.

Anniversary mass for Mike and his parents, Maisie and Michael, Friday, May 1st at 7pm, Knockcroghery Church.

Will those who think of them today

A little prayer to Jesus say.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

John

Moate, Creggs

Treasured memories of John on his 4th Anniversary

DOOLAN

Frances

Stonepark, Roscommon Town. (2nd Anniversary)

Mam never failed to do her best. Her heart was true and tender. She worked so hard for those she loved. And those she loved remember.

Love always, Chris, Noel, Mark, Shauna, Liam, Frances, Patrick, Cíaran and Niamh.

Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 25th April at 11.00am.

KELLY

Thomas

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

KILLION

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

Loved and missed by his wife Kitty and family.

KELLY Thomas (Tom)

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

In memory of a dear Mother Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal. Forever in our hearts. Loved and remembered by her family.

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Your memories are precious, your presence is missed. You will fondly be remembered by all of us.

Phil and family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 26th of April at 11.30am in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow.

Though we cannot touch you, your love is still our guide. Though we cannot see you, We sense your presence by our side. Loved and missed every day. Always in our hearts and prayers. From Kathleen and family.

Anniversary Mass for John on Sunday 3rd May at 10am in Dunamon Castle.

On Della’s Months Mind, the family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us on the sad passing of our beloved Mother. We are deeply grateful to our extended family, friends and neighbors for their kindness and support during this very difficult time. Thank you to all who attended the Funeral Services, especially those who travelled long distances and to all who sent Mass/Sympathy Cards, condolences and messages of support.

A special word of thanks to all who helped us in any way during Della’s funeral arrangements and made Della’s final journey so dignified and meaningful, Smyth’s Funeral Directors, Mass Celebrant Fr. Ray Milton, organist Ellen Costello, singer Aileen O’Connor, Tom Brady and the Grave Diggers for their care in preparing Della’s final resting place.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Gerry O’Mara and his team, the staff of Roscommon Hospital and Oakwood Nursing Home for their care and compassion and to all the carers especially Josie who looked after Della with outstanding care and kindness.

Della’s Month’s Mind Mass is on Saturday, 9th May at 10am in Church of the Risen Christ, Ballybay, Kiltoom.

RATTIGAN

SEAN

Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Cherished memories of Sean, who died on the 26th of April 2007 (19th Anniversary)

R.I.P.

www.brianmuraystone.com E: brianmurraystone@gmail.com DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IS TUESDAYS AT 2.00 pm

Forever in the thoughts and prayers of his wife and family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 26th April in St

11.30am.

CARLEY

Tom

Rooaun, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon

Who passed away peacefully on 25th March 2026

We, the family of the late Tom Carley would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for the support, kindness, and compassion we received from family, friends, neighbours, and work colleagues during our recent sad loss of a wonderful husband, Dad and Grandad.

Thank you to those who travelled both near and far to attend Tom’s Funeral, to those who telephoned, called to our home, brought food, sent Mass Cards, letters, and texts, and to those who left online messages of condolences.

A sincere thank you to Fr. Sakwe who celebrated Tom’s Funeral Mass, to Andrew and Eimear Reynolds for the beautiful singing and music, to Kieran Leavy Funeral Director and his family, for their personal, professional, and digni ed service and to the grave diggers Joey Casey and Joe Kelly for preparing Tom’s nal resting place.

Thanks also to the Percy French Hotel for providing a beautiful meal.

We would like to take this opportunity to say a special word of thanks to Dr. Annette Rogers, and to the management and sta at Shannon Lodge Nursing Home for their compassionate, professional care, and support to both Tom and our family.

We also thank Dr. Frank Nkemjika for his care and support.

As it is impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our grateful appreciation.

Tom’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated at the Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass on Sunday, 3rd May 2026 at 10.30am

Your memories are so precious, Your presence missed so much, You will always be remembered, And missed by all of us.

MORAN

Michael

In loving memory of Michael Moran Grange, Four-Mile-House, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 26th April 2017. (9th Anniversary)

Alone, but never quite alone, I face an empty chair, but sometimes in the silence, I imagine you are there. My companion for so many years, no longer here with me, and yet, in some mysterious way, you keep me company.

Deeply missed and forever loved and remembered by his wife Maureen, his sons David and Andrew, his daughter Karen, his grandchildren and the extended Moran and Lohan families.

Cuddy (née Haddigan)

Anne

Oran, Donamon. Who passed away on 21st April, 2018. (8th Anniversary) Rest in Peace.

Love Lives On Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, for as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.

Remembered with love forever by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.

GACQUIN Bridie

Curnalee, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bridie Gacquin whose 4th Anniversary occurs on 26th April 2026.

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 Michael and family.

Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday, 26th April at 10am.

HENNIGAN

Maeve

Clooneyquinn, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Maeve who died on 22nd April 2015

Though your smile is gone forever and your hand we cannot touch Still, We have so many memories of the one we loved so much.

Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part God has you in his keeping And we have you in our hearts

Lovingly remembered by her husband Joe, daughters Marie, Ann, Irene, Edel, Olivia, her son Joe and their families

Masses o ered. Forever in our hearts.

KELLY Michael

Late of Tonlagee, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Michael who passed away on the 22nd of April 2025.

What we’d give if we could say Hello Dad in the same old old way to hear your voice and see you smile, to sit with you and chat awhile. So if you who have a father cherish him with care for you’ll never know the heartache till you see his empty chair.

Lovingly remembered by your daughters Deirdre, Sandra, Michelle and Valerie, sons Marty and Michael, grand children, sister Marie and brother in law Seamus.

Michael’s First Anniversary Mass is on Friday the 24th of April at 7pm in St Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

WARD

John James & Mary

Cornaveagh, Creggs, Roscommon (12th and 9th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of John James who died on 12th February 2014 and his wife Mary who died on 2nd June 2017

Time may pass and fade away

But silent thoughts and memories stay. Our wish is just a simple prayer God bless and keep you both in His care.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by their son Seamus, daughter Annette, son-in-law Seamus, grandchildren Aidan, Amanda and Laura and great-grandson Jarlath.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet on Sunday, 26th April 2026 at 11.30am.

SHANNON

Patricia

Carane, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co Roscommon First Anniversary

The family of the late Patricia Shannon would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the kindness and support shown to us following the passing of Patricia.

Sincere thanks to everyone who called to the house, sent Mass or Sympathy Cards, personal messages and online condolences. Thank you to those who attended the removal, Funeral Mass and burial, especially all who travelled a long distance to be with us.

We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to the Paramedics who attended at her home on that morning along with a very special word of gratitude to Fr George Agger of Divine Word Missionaries. Our thanks to Pat and Nicola Mc Donagh, the Funeral Directors, for their professionalism, attention to detail and compassion at a most di cult time. We also thank the Grave Diggers who were so caring in preparing Patricia’s nal resting place.

Thank you to Fr Victor Samugana MSP for o ering the beautiful Funeral Mass and for his help in preparing the readings and prayers for the ceremony. Thank you to Eoin Kenny who provided the uplifting music and everyone who helped to prepare the church, Eucharistic Minister and Altar Server.

Thank you to Hester’s Golden Eagle Restaurant for the lovely meal they provided after the burial.

Anniversary Mass for Patricia and her beloved husband Johnny will take place on Sunday, April 26th at 11am in St Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish.

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE

For urgent need...

KILCLINE

Mary (Maisie), Michael and Mike Bracknagh, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon (19th, 33rd and 5th Anniversaries)

In Loving memory of Mary who died on the 2nd April 2007, Michael who died on the 24th April 1993 and Mike who died on 29th April 2021.

We thought of you with love today, But that is nothing new. We thought of you yesterday And days before that too. We think of you in silence, We often speak your name. All we have now 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.

Lovingly remembered by Sally, Paul, Mary, Eddie and families. Anniversary Mass on Friday, 1st May in St Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7.00pm.

HANNON

Teresa and Paddy

Bornacurra, Ballygar, Co. Galway (11th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Teresa and Paddy, beloved parents, and grandparents, Teresa who passed away on 29th January 2015 and Paddy, who passed away on 23rd April 2015.

Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day, no longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there. Time slips by and life goes on, but in our hearts you are never gone. Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you every day.

Loved and remembered by your sons John, Joseph and Kevin, your daughters Ann and Mary, son-in-law John and daughter-in-law Anne.

NANNY AND GRANDAD

Your names are often mentioned, Our thoughts are still with you. Both of you have never been forgotten And by us you never will, Everlasting memories of Nanny and Grandad.

Love from your grandchildren Lisamarie, Shauna, Rachel and Ciara xx

Paddy and Teresa’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brendan’s Church, Toghergar on Sunday, 26th April at 9.30am.

May their gentle souls rest in peace.

RAFTERY

Mary (née Cunningham)

Ballincurry, Glinsk, Via Castlerea, Co. Galway (1st Anniversary)

In Loving memory of Mary who passed away on April 23rd 2025. Remember Me

Don’t remember me with sadness, Don’t remember me with tears, Remember all the laughter, We’ve shared throughout the years. Now I am contented

That my life it was worthwhile, Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile.

When you are walking down the street

And you’ve got me on your mind, I’m walking in your footsteps

Only half a step behind.

So please don’t be unhappy

Just because I’m out of sight, Remember that I’m with you

Each morning, noon and night.

Amen.

Always remembered by Dannie, Ann Marie, Cathy, Margaret, Aidan, Tommie and Cíaran.

A much loved Grandma

The day that God called your name

It broke my heart in two

But Heaven needed an Angel

And the one he picked was you

I just wish he could have waited

And let you stay with me

But you have left memories in my heart

And that’s where they’ll always be I just wish I could rewind the clock

Or make it turn real slow

I could have hugged you one more time

Before you had to go

No matter how much time will pass I’ll miss you everyday

Keep shining bright in Heaven

So you can light the way

Nanna Nu-Nus – always loved and missed by your grandchildren Daniel, Alanna, Mya, Laura, Olivia, Liam, Aoife & Lily, Darragh and Emma . Anniversary Mass, Sunday April 26th, 2026

St Michael’s Church, Glinsk at 10.00am.

Saint Expedite, you lay in rest. come to you and ask that this wish be granted.

(Mention your urgent request) Saint Expedite now that I ask of you. Saint Expedite now what I want of you, this very second. Don’t waste another day, grant me what I ask for. I know your power, I know you because of your work. I know you can help me. Do this for me and I will spread your name with love and honour so that it will be invoked again and again. Expedite this wish with speed love, honour and goodness. Glory to you, Saint Expedite! M.H.

PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST

– St Rita of Cascia

O powerful St. Rita, rightly called Saint of the Impossible, I come to you with condence in my great need. You know well my trials, for you yourself were many times burdened in this life. Come to my help, speak for me, pray with me, intercede on my behalf before the Father. I know that God has a most generous heart and that he is a most loving Father. Join your prayers to mine and obtain for me the grace I desire (here mention your request). You who were so very pleasing to God on earth and are so much so now in heaven, I promise to use this favor, when granted, to better my life, to proclaim God’s mercy, and to make you more widely known and loved. Amen. M.H.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M+C.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus in the past have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Thanks giving to St. Carlo and all the other Saints. K.E.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it).

SPOLLEN CONCRETE

Ready-Mix Truck Driver Required.

Spollen Concrete, Glasson, Athlone is seeking a full-time Ready Mix Driver.

CHILDCARE PRACTITIONER WANTED for Sun ower Montessori, Ballygar, Co. Galway. Minimum level 5 required Call 090 6624689 or email Mandy at Sun owermontessori@outlook.ie for more information.

Childminder required 2 days a week in Roscommon Town in child’s own home. Must have good English. Ideally would suit semi retired person. Please contact: 086 136 6661 SITUATIONS

CHILDMINDER REQUIRED

If you wish to place acknowledgements, memoriam notices, birthday and anniversary remembrances, please email them to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or call us on 090 6634633 or by post, along with your name and contact details, to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

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.

PLANNING NOTICES

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Dennis and Sarah Deane, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon wish to apply for renewal of Bookmakers Licence.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

I, Andrea Doorly, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to erect an Agricultural shed with slatted tanks and manure pit and all associated site works at Roxborough, Derrane, 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, €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: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Roscommon. Mobile: 086 8551835

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

Lisnagavragh, Rahara, Co. Roscommon.

I hereby apply to the above authority on behalf of Darren Fallon and Klaudia Lewandowska for planning permission to construct a fully serviced private dwelling house with waste water treatment system and garage / fuel shed to include all associated site works at the above location.

A Natura Impact Statement, (N.I.S.) will be submitted to Roscommon County Council as part of the application. The application and N.I.S. 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 a 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: Ruane Survey, Design and Planning Ltd. Fohenagh, Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, Phone: (090) 9688516. Mobile: (087) 8188596.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Full Planning Permission Is Being Sought From Roscommon County Council For The Proposed Erection Of Signage On The Recently Constructed Retail/Storage/ O ce Building Granted Full Planning Permission Under Planning Reference Number PD/24/60340 Together With The Proposed Erection Of Signage On Existing Building To The Front Of Site And All Ancillary Site Works At Greatmeadow, Boyle, Co. Roscommon For National Co-Operative Farm Relief Services Limited.

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 and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the

of the application. Signed:

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is being sought from Roscommon County Council for the retention of an existing vehicular entrance together with seeking planning permission for the proposed replacement of the existing front boundary hedgerow with the proposed construction of a boundary fence/wall and all ancillary site works to service an existing two storey type dwelling house which was granted planning permission under planning reference No. PD/18/628 at Slevinagee Townland, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon for Cian Casey & Sonya Raftery.

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 and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Signed: Cunningham Design & Planning Ltd.

Block C, N4 Axis Centre, Longford, Co. Longford.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Finneran Farms intend to apply for Permission to construct a ve bay extension to existing slatted cattle shed, a ve bay feed store and farmyard Manure pit on their lands at Corraree And Ballygatta, Taughmaconnell, 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: Finneran Farms.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Patrick Goldrick & Cara McKeon, intend to apply for full planning permission for development at ARDSALLAGH, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

The development will consists of: a) erection of one new single storey private domestic dwelling, b) new PIA Approved Wastewater Treatment System to EPA Cop, En12566-3/7, and c) new site entrance to public road, with connection to utilities and all necessary 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 the 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: Vincent Durkin (Agent).

www.DurkinDesign.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Domnick Morrisroe intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for retention permission for, i) to retain demolition of two-storey dwelling house, ii) to retain demolition of outbuilding / agricultural shed, iii) to retain as constructed two-storey dwelling house, iv) to retain as constructed domestic garage / store shed, v) to retain as constructed agricultural machinery storage shed, vi) to retain site boundaries and all associated site works and services at Cloonlumney Townland, Ballaghaderreen, 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 this 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: Domnick Morrisroe

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Barry Keenan, intend to apply for Retention Permission to retain and complete the following (a) a single-storey at roof extension to the rear of the existing building (b) elevational changes to all elevations of the existing building, along with all other associated site works.

At: Ballytoohey Townland, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the 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 submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: (Agent).

Murtagh Engineering

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

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 speci c 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Fergal Flynn intends to apply for RETENTION PERMISSION for development at this site: Ballyfeeny Townland, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon, F42 EW08, for the following:

1. Seek for Temporary Retention of a Specialized Support Unit for a period of 7 years. The unit is used for ancillary therapeutic and educational purposes in support of a state-mandated Foster Care Program. 2. Retention of the existing wastewater connection from this unit to the on-site treatment system. 3. Retain minor elevational alterations to 2 existing outbuildings: Outbuilding 1: Enclosure of the front elevation with new blockwork wall and new entrance door; Outbuilding 2: Installation of a new leanto roof structure. 4. Revise Site boundary originally granted under Planning Ref. 20/243.

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, St Barry’s GAA Club, intend to apply for Retention Permission and Permission for the following; Retention Permission is sought to retain (a) an existing training pitch with ball stop netting (b) astro turf pitch with associated fencing (c) existing walking track (d) existing covered spectator stand (e) storage building (f) ticket booth building (g) score board structure (h) site boundaries. Permission is sought for (a) the installation of oodlighting to the existing training pitch and astro turf pitch complete with walking track lighting (b) the construction of a hurling wall (c) alterations to the existing site entrance gate, along with all other ancillary site works.

At: Ballytoohey Townland, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the 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 submissions or observations will be considered by the authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: (Agent).

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Eileen Finan intends to make application to Roscommon County Council for retention permission for change of use of original garage to gym/o ce/ensuite, demolition of dinning room and conservatory, and planning permission to extend existing dwelling to rear and side. Associated services and site development works at Lissagallan, 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 inwriting on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within a 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: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd. Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone 090 6626974 086/8115449

SportsPeople

Punchestown Racing Festival starts Tuesday

Horses for Courses

This week’s racing starts this evening (Thursday) on the all-weather at Dundalk at 5.10 pm.

There will be more meetings on Friday evening: on the flat in Cork at 5.05 pm, and over the jumps at nearby Kilbeggan at 4.50 pm. Saturday afternoon sees two flat meetings at Limerick and Navan. There is no racing on Sunday, with flat racing at Naas on Monday, and the fiveday Punchestown Racing Festival starting on Tuesday afternoon at 2.30 pm.

There are four races from the Sandown card being covered tomorrow on ITV, including the Group 2 Mile race and two Group 3 races: the Gordon Richards Stakes and the Classic Trial. On Saturday, ITV are covering four more races from Sandown, including the Grade 1 Celebration Chase, with one race from both Leicester and Haydock.

The Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr last Saturday was won by Dedicated Hero, trained by Sandy Thomson and ridden by Danny

McMenamin, who beat Captain Hugo and the Scottish Grand National by Kap Vert, ridden by Sean Houlihan and trained by Phillip Hobbs and Johnson White at 20/1, who were gaining compensation for the defeat of their Captain Hugo in the Champion Hurdle. Joseph O’Brien and JJ Slevin finished 3rd with Kim Roque at 4/1f in the National.

O’Brien had a double in The Curragh on Sunday, with Starford, ridden by Scott McCullagh, beating stablemate Beset and Declan McDonagh in the Alleged Stakes, and Arctic Assassin in the closing handicap, ridden by Joey Sheridan. Ryan Moore and Aidan O’Brien combined to easily win the 6f maiden with Great Barrier Reef.

Mullingar-based trainer Ciaran Murphy had the biggest success of his career to date as he comfortably dismissed six rivals in the opener at Ayr with Moudan winning the Scotty Brand Handicap Chase on Saturday under Sean Bowen. Registering his second success of the season at

Navan on his penultimate start, the Mount Nelson seven-year-old filled the runner-up spot when last seen at Fairyhouse over Easter. Owned and bred by Pat McCormack and sent off a 4/1 chance, the likeable bay made smooth headway to lead before three out. Soon skipping clear under Sean Bowen, he ultimately eased to an 11-length win, with Gavin

Cromwell’s French import Le Nez Creux filling the runner-up spot. There are two Grade 1 races on opening day (Tuesday) of the Punchestown Racing Festival: the PRL Champion Novice Hurdle and the William Hill Champion Chase along with the Goffs Bumper. On Wednesday and Thursday, there are two more Grade 1 races each day,

All Star award for Emily, success for local athletes

Congratulations to Emily Clyne (Reeside AC) who has won an Athletics Ireland

All Star Award! Emily received the award at the 2025 Juvenile All Star Awards, presented last Saturday night, April 18th, in the Mullingar Park Hotel.

The awards celebrated the exceptional achievements of juvenile athletes throughout the 2025 season.

Meanwhile, Roscommon athletes took honours at the National Juvenile Athletics Indoor Championships which were held over three days in the International Arena in TUS recently.

Day 1 saw Emily Clyne, Reeside AC, taking bronze in the U-17 Girls High Jump.

On day 2, Andrew Nolan, Roscommon AC, smashed the championship record – which had stood since 2019 – when taking gold in the U-15 Boys Shot Putt event, with an incredible throw of 17.51m!

Mikey Nolan, Roscommon AC, achieved

to

Clyne

Star Award!

joint 3rd in U-12 Boys 60m

having achieved a PB of 8.73 in the earlier

There were a number of athletes representing Roscommon over the three days, which is an achievement in itself, with some superb performances and personal bests recorded.

On the Sunday, it was the turn of our younger athletes at the U-9/U-11 Connacht Indoors Championships, which boasted over 900 entries, with Roscommon athletes competing well across the board.

Standout performances came from Devan Curran, Castlerea Crusaders, who not only won two golds but also smashed two championship records, with a 60m sprint time of 8.72 and a long jump of 4m 17 in the U-11 Boys event.

Emily O’Brien, Roscommon AC, blazed to victory in the U-10 Girls 60 metre sprint and followed up with a bronze medal in the 400m.

starting with the Novice Hurdle and the Champion Bumper on Wednesday, followed by the Novice Chase and Champion Stayers Hurdle on Thursday. We will carry a report on these and preview the rest of the card next week.

Racing news

Ben Pauling has ruled Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man out of the Punchestown Gold Cup after suffering another minor setback, but hopes to have him back for an autumn campaign.

Dual Cheltenham and Aintree winner Barton Snow has also been ruled out of travelling to the Kildare venue by trainer Joe O’Shea as the owners do not want to travel. The nine-year-old held on by a neck from Emmet Mullins’ It’s On The Line to seal victory at Prestbury Park last month.

Competition winners

The winners of our first competition for 2026 are Mick McGarry, Darragh Miley and Marie Keane, all of whom knew Soldier In Milan won the Irish Grand National. Please collect tickets in Roscommon People office.

SportsPeople

Carrick and Castlerea to meet in Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup final

SOCCER: This season’s Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup final will feature the unusual pairing of Carrick Town and Castlerea Celtic.

Division Two side Carrick Town are playing their first season in the Roscommon & District League after many years in the Sligo/Leitrim League. Their qualification for the final coincides with the club celebrating 50 years in existence and they will be hoping to cap off those celebrations with a cup win.

Premier Division side Castlerea Celtic have won the cup on eight previous occasions, the most recent being three years ago.

In the semi-finals, Carrick surprisingly beat Division One side Cloonfad United. Cloonfad were on top early on and took the lead after eleven minutes when Michael McGarry’s corner kick was headed in by Andrew Glennon. Carrick were level eight minutes later when a Narada Patrasco corner went all the way to the Cloonfad net.

Carrick took the lead with 14 minutes to go through a Fursey Butler volley. It would prove to be the winner, Carrick ‘keeper Olea Troshchii producing some good saves to ensure a place in the final for his side.

In an all-Premier Division clash at Lecarrow on Saturday evening, Castlerea Celtic were 5-1 winners over a Moore United side who will be disappointed with their showing on the night.

Jay McCartney scored a hat-trick, with the winners comfortably in control by half-time, at which point they led 4-0.

Premier Division

In the Premier Division, Shiven Rovers secured a play-off to avoid a relegation playoff when they beat title holders St John’s Athletic 1-0 at Newbridge. Franscisco Lopez Miras scored the winner seven minutes into time added on at the end of the game.

Welcome

Into cup last four

Ballymoe FC and Boyle Celtic are through to the Premier Division Cup semi-finals, while Skyvalley Rovers v Moore and Castlerea Celtic v St John’s were both postponed due to heavy rain.

Ballymoe beat Shiven Rovers 4-2 at Ballymoe, with Damien Goggins, James Connaughton, Mark Kilcommins and Richard Thompson scoring. Boyle Celtic beat Dunmore Town 6-0 at Boyle, Michael Corrigan scoring a hat-trick.

Shield final

Cam Celtic/Dysart are through to the DK Shield final thanks to a 3-0 win over Castlerea Celtic’s second side at Dysart. Ben Moran scored twice. They will play the winners of Ballinasloe Town and Ballyboro in the final.

Division Three Cup

In the Division Three Cup, Cloonfad advanced to the next round following a 2-1 win over St Cuan’s/Ahascragh United at Cloonfad, Jack Reinhard and Mark Feeney scoring, Liam Fleming getting one for the opposition with a stunning volley.

Women’s update

The Women’s Challenge Cup semi-finals were played on Sunday at Lecarrow with Dunmore Town and Castlerea Celtic beating Shiven Rovers and Boyle Celtic respectively.

Aoife Smyth opened the scoring for Dunmore Town before half-time and added a second after the break, with Nicola Kilgarriff and Ashling Hynes also on the scoresheet in a 4-0 win.

Castlerea Celtic secured their place in the final with a 2-0 win over a gallant Boyle, Clodagh and Sarah Diggins on the scoresheet.

Ballaghaderreen are through to the Women’s Shield final following a 5-1 win over Roscommon United at Roscommon.

C’mon The Town

(Roscommon Town Youth Soccer)

We welcome all returning players and coaches for the 2026 RDYSL season. We especially welcome our new players and coaches to the club and hope that all have an educational and enjoyable experience with the Town.

Rovers to Roscommon Town were delighted to welcome Rory Gaffney of Shamrock Rovers to the club recently. Rory spent time with our younger club members who learnt a little about how a professional soccer player prepares, performs and overcomes obstacles. We wish Rory well for the season ahead as Rovers seek to defend their league title and progress in Europe.

AGM

Our annual general meeting was held in the Sports Park last week. It was a good opportunity to reflect and project. Thanks to those that attended. The following were appointed for the forthcoming year – Chairperson: Paul Duignan; Vice-Chairperson: Mark Keaveney; Finance Officer: John Horan; Communications Officer:

Mick Egan; Children’s Officer: Mark Keaveney; Registration Officer: Alastair Kerr; Assistant Registration Officer: Dion Hegarty; Development Officer: James Lohan.

Thank you

The club would like to thank Damon Kearney whose role as FAI Regional Development Officer ended in recent weeks. Damon contributed positively to the grassroots game. His support and guidance will be missed by all clubs in the county. We wish Damon well for the future.

Club Mark Roscommon Town has attained the Club Mark Award. This award recognises best practice in administration, compliance, governance and management. A lot of effort was made to acquire this award. Special thanks to our Club Mark Officer, Mark Keaveney, for his efforts.

Sports Park

As club members will have seen, a lot of changes have taken place in the Sports Park, with more to come. The main pitch remains unplayable for our

older teams while the second pitch will be unavailable shortly.

The new athletics development in the Sports Park will enhance the sports facility in the local community and we look forward to seeing the project successfully completed. The infield section will have a community soccer pitch. The development draw will take place on May 4th. See winagardenroomandkitchen.ie for more details and please support if you can.

Sponsors

Sincere thanks to our loyal and generous sponsors, some of whom also contribute to the club as coaches. We appreciate your support.

Club store

Check out our website to view our range of affordable and attractive club clothing on roscommontownyouthsoccer.ie

Stay in touch

Follow the Town on Instagram and Facebook.

Email: info@roscommontownyouth soccer.ie

Did you know?

Town has 26 teams in 2026.

Coming soon...Soccer Camp

Stay tuned to our social media channels!

Condolences

We extend our condolences to Padraic

THE GAIN LINE Narrow defeat for U-14s in Plate semi-final

Last weekend Creggs RFC U-14 boys welcomed Connemara/Oughterard to Creggs for the Plate semi-final. The visitors led 14-0 after 15 minutes when Creggs centre Harris Curran injured a collarbone and had to be replaced. Creggs had to regroup and deal with the challenge at hand and reset their game plan. Oscar Brennan scored Creggs’ first try just before half-time to make it 14-5.

Creggs pushed on in the second half with Rian Davis getting over for a try, converted by Zac Kelly, to narrow the gap to two (1412). Creggs were on the front foot at this stage and a kick into the back field looked to have the visitors struggling. However, some clever play by the full-back saw him notice Creggs’ back field was vacant and they worked upfield and scored, pushing the score out to 19-12.

Connemara added to their tally with another try to go 24-12 ahead. With time running out, Creggs needed to act fast. A try by Matthew Towey just wasn’t enough to bridge the gap and the game finished 24-19. Creggs wish Connemara/Oughterard good luck in the semi-final.

That ends the season for this group of lads at U-14 level. It was a tough season in ways but what was evident was the improvement this team has made since last September.

The U-14 management would like to thank the players for all their efforts over the year and also the parents for all their help and support throughout the season.

Creggs: Kyle Maloney, Will Fallon, Matthew Towey, Rian Davis, Kyle Fahy, Sean Keane, Liam Fleming, Daniel Foley, Thomas Kelly, Ethan Coyne, Tadhg Duignan, Oscar Brennan, Zac Kelly, Pierce Ward, Eoin Connolly, Harry Dolan, Niklas Koch, Ethan Doyle, Harris Curran and Eamon O’Toole. MINI-RUGBY: Creggs RFC U-10 minis finished their season on a high on Saturday morning. Having played weekly since last September they were presented with medals

to celebrate the end of their season. The coaches also organised ‘goodies’ which went down a treat. Thanks to all the players and parents and guardians and to their dedicated coaches who will now get a deserved sleep-in on Saturday mornings.

Creggs RFC U-12 minis wrapped up their season on Saturday morning with a home game against Sligo RFC. This team has worked extremely hard at training all year and it has really shown on the pitch, with another strong display of rugby last Saturday morning to finish up their last year at minis level.

The coaches would like to thank the players and parents for their commitment all season and they look forward to seeing them all again next season for competitive U-13s rugby.

INTERNATIONAL DUTY: Congrats to the three players who learned their rugby in Creggs RFC who played on the Irish U-21 team against Italy last weekend at the Dexcom Stadium in Galway.

Ireland won comfortably with those three girls with the strongest Creggs RFC association all very involved. Roisin Maher and Jemima Adams Verling both scored tries, while Siofra Hession finished the game as out-half, having come off the bench in the second half.

CONNACHT U-19s: Huge congratulations to Creggs RFC members Kaylum Curran, Cian Kiernan and Dan Kelly on being selected for the Connacht U-19 Summer Programme. This is a massive achievement and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent these young men have shown on and off the pitch. Representing the club at a provincial level is a proud moment for the players, their families and the club.

They will be training hard over the coming months as they prepare for the interprovincial championship matches which will take place later this summer.

We wish them the best of luck.

SOCIAL NIGHT: This Friday, April 24th Creggs RFC are holding a social for members and supporters to celebrate the successful 2026 season. Commences at 8 pm. All are welcome. Guest speaker on the night is Bernard Jackman, ex-Irish international and

BOYLE

RESULTS: The winners of the club’s qualifier for the Holmpatrick Cup were Charlie O’Donnell and Martin Sweeney with 42 points. We wish them all the best in the next round.

VOUCHER COMPETITION: The most financially rewarding prize of the year, the voucher competition, will be played for this weekend, April 25th and 26th.

First prize for the men is, as ever, the muchcoveted 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 paid up soon.

LESSONS: Our Men’s and Ladies Beginner lessons got off to a great start on Wednesday of last week despite some absolutely terrible weather. The lessons resume next Wednesday. On Saturday, April 25th, Children’s lessons resume (10.30 am-1.30 pm).

COMPETITIONS: The family of the late Ted Hester are organising a competition in his memory over the May Bank Holiday weekend. It will also serve as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society. This 4-person team open competition has an entry fee of €80 per team. Food and refreshments will be available. To book a tee time, contact Lorcan Egan on 087 652 1271.

The Men’s Thursday competition continues to suffer from a series of false starts due to the weather, but we’re hopeful it will begin this Thursday (April 23rd).

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

SENIORS: Overall winner on Thursday, April 16th was Pat Gannon from Kilmore with 40 pts. Category winners were Pat Gannon, Gerry Emmett and Shay O’Connor. Front nine winner was Albert Hogg and back nine winner was PJ Sharkey.

LADIES RESULTS: We had our first competition of 2026 on Sunday last in glorious sunshine. The competition was very kindly sponsored by the Drumsna Garden Centre. Winners were Margaret Killoran, Melissa Collins, Mary Blake, Attracta O’Connor; 2nd: Monica Shannon, Ann McDermott-Conroy, Kathleen O’Dowd.

HILO: Eight ladies from Carrick-onShannon attended the HILO outings hosted by Strokestown Golf Club on Sunday morning. We thank Strokestown Lady Captain Martina and club members for their welcome and hospitality. A great morning was had by all.

Short putts

LESSONS: The programme for the ‘Ladies get into Golf’ started on Tuesday, April 14th. These are one-hour weekly lessons with a PGA professional.

ROSCOMMON

LADIES: Hard luck to our Ladies Foursomes team who were defeated by Co Sligo on Saturday. Well done to Sinead Benedetti and Anne Keogh who won the home tie, and well done to the other team members –Leah Lennon, Leah O’Connor, Sine Lennon and Laura Griffith – who put in a great performance on behalf of the club. Well done to everyone involved with the team as well.

MEN: Social Scramble winners were Mark Kearney, David Kearney, Ian Delaney, Jamie Granahan.

Craven Cup, sponsored by XLNT Signs: Overall winner was Padraig Beirne with 42 pts. Gross: Enda Daly (32 pts). Cat. 1: Clement McCormack (38 pts); Cat. 2: Noel

Sharkey (42 pts); Cat. 3: Kevin Kenny (39 pts).

The draws for the Jack Halliday and Smithwicks Cups were made on Sunday evening last. Details in the men’s locker room. Next presentation of prizes is on Sunday, May 3rd at 8 pm.

GOLF CLASSIC: The annual Roscommon Camogie Golf Classic takes place this Saturday (all day). Timesheet in operation. Details at the clubhouse.

SENIOR MEN: Winner was Denis O’Brien with 36 pts. Cat. 1: Sean McGahon (34 pts); Cat. 2: Eugene Finneran (32 pts); Cat. 3: Maurice Buckley (27 pts); Cat. 4: Pat McDonagh (28 pts). Deuces: Sham Byrne, Des Mahon, Frank Gleeson, Padraig Kelly, Michael Keane.

SENIOR WOMEN: 1st was Mary McDermott with 22 pts. 2nd: Bernie Maher (20 pts); 3rd: Maura Dervin (20 pts); 4th: Annie Timothy (19 pts) and Rosemary O’Brien (19 pts).

Gold award for Ballaghaderreen

BUCCANEERS RFC

Buccaneers into Ard na Cregg Cup final

The Buccaneers Thirds advanced to the final of the Bank of Ireland Ard na Cregg Cup by virtue of a 13-12 victory over Westport Seconds in near-ideal conditions at Dubarry Park last Sunday. Fielding a mix of U-20s and veterans, Buccs lasted the pace well in a game where scoring opportunities were at a premium.

In the pleasant, sunny weather, the Pirates enjoyed the majority of territory and possession against the visitors who had played far more games this season and were expected to dominate. However, Buccs took the game to the Bulls and their early pressure yielded a 15th minute Richie Greene penalty.

Buccaneers could not add to their tally and Westport scored a soft 31st minute try by Emmet Aylward, missed tackles helping the centre touch down against the run of play. Cillian McKeown’s conversion gave the Mayo men a 7-3 lead at half-time.

Following the change of ends, the Shannonsiders generally forced the pace and regained the lead after Declan Brady’s surge earned a penalty which was tapped smartly by Kyle Byrne, the young skipper getting over the line on 56 minutes.

Westport got their noses back in front on 64 minutes courtesy of a pushover try by Jake Cleary, but Buccs’ retort was instant. Kyle Byrne won a lineout two minutes later close to The Bounty corner and the pack drove over, enabling Rory Grenham to touch down. Greene’s conversion went wide via an upright and a long-range penalty dipped under the crossbar so Buccs had to dig deep to protect their single-point lead. This they did, displaying composure and discipline to forge a narrow but fully deserved victory. They now face a derby showdown against Ballinasloe Seconds in the final on the May Bank holiday Sunday at Corinthian Park, Galway.

Cathal Walsh did a lot of hard work in the forwards exchanges for the winners for whom Ruairi Byrne lorded the lineouts. Greene was busy in a backs unit well controlled by Gerard Fallon.

BUCCANEERS 14 ENNISKILLEN 31: Winners of the Scallon Cup for the past four seasons, Buccaneers relinquished their grip on the trophy when going down 31-14 to Enniskillen at Dubarry Park last Saturday. The game was in the melting pot until the final ten minutes when the visitors scored three tries to get a merited victory.

BUCCANEERS 41 BALLINA 12: Buccaneers welcomed Ballina to Athlone on a pleasant Sunday afternoon for a Connacht Bowl semi-final and a strong second-half display earned them a 41-12 win to ensure they progressed to the final.

U-15s IN CUP FINAL: Buccaneers U-15s contest the Bank of Ireland Connacht Cup final on Sunday when they square up to Carrick-on-Shannon at the Dexcom Stadium. Kick-off in Galway is at 2.30 pm. The Leitrim lads have been in free-scoring form en route to the decider but this is a hard-working and committed Buccs side who can mix physical play with slick handling. A highly entertaining final looks in prospect and, if Buccs’ application and focus is what it needs to be, then these young Pirates can come home with the cup.

DAY TO REMEMBER: Buccaneers U-12 Girls squad had a day to remember at the Aviva National Festival held at the Aviva Stadium last Sunday.

AWARDS GALA: The Buccaneers Pirates Awards event takes place in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone, on Friday, May 23rd. Contact our Administrator Geraldine at 086 1732711 to book.

The

Meanwhile,

For

for

SUMMER CAMP: Looking ahead, Buccaneers will hold their annual Summer Camp from August 10th to 14th. This camp caters for boys and girls aged 6 to 12 years old. Kids will learn rugby skills and fundamentals as well as teamwork and coordination through fun games and mini-matches. Cost is €40 per child. Contact our Administrator Geraldine at 086 1732711 to book or for enquiries.

Shine sparkles as Meath too slick for Roscommon

Christy Ring Cup (Round 2)

Meath 0-28 Roscommon 2-12

< SEAMUS DUKE IN BALLYFORAN

A second loss for Roscommon senior hurlers in the Christy Ring Cup competition was not a particular shock against a slick Meath outfit at Ballyforan last Saturday, with man of the match Tom Shine scoring 12 points for the Royals.

Meath had lost to Kerry in round one, but they have been operating at a higher level than Roscommon in league and championship over the years, and would have been favoured to emerge victorious against the home side – and so it proved.

With high-flying Kerry coming to Ballyforan this weekend, it looks like it will be a case of Brian Hanley’s men targeting the final two matches (against Wicklow and Donegal) in their efforts to remain in this division in the championship going forward.

On a blustery but fine day in Ballyforan, Roscommon battled right to the finish – and a return of 2-12 was very respectable – but Meath were just too strong all over the field and they ran up a big score in the end.

The Royals’ excellent first touch and ability to find teammates with accurate passes, long and short, was key to this win. They had no less than ten different scorers on the day, with Tom Shine, Lorcan Byrne and Mark Leavy the pick of their attackers.

For Roscommon, the fact that they did not concede a goal was a tribute to some fine defensive work from the likes of goalkeeper Enda Lawless, Jack Dowling, Tommy Morris and Micheál Hussey, but it has to be said once Meath got momentum there only looked like being one winner from early in the proceedings.

Roscommon had an early tonic in the second minute when a blistering run from Darragh Finn ended with Conor Mulry bundling the ball into the Meath net.

But the Royals were unperturbed and they responded by tacking on eight points without reply. Conor Morris pointed two frees for the home side to stop that run, but with Tom Shine unerring for the visitors from the placed ball, it was 0-16 to 1-4 at half-time for Meath. Roscommon played their best hurling in the third quarter. Pointed frees from Conor Morris and Adam Donnelly kept the scoreboard ticking over, and in the 47th minute Micheál Hussey finished an excellent team move to the net for a second Roscommon goal.

Two minutes later Roscommon had a golden opportunity to narrow the gap even further when Cian Murray was fouled and referee James Judge awarded the home side a penalty. But Adam Donnelly’s effort whizzed past the post and wide. After that it was plain sailing for Meath, who added a further eight points to their tally.

Next up it’s Kerry at home this Saturday. They look a cut above even Derry and Meath in this division so it will be a daunting prospect for Roscommon who were short a number of players last weekend. Roscommon will be hoping for a good performance against the

Roscommon manager

Brian Hanley (pictured earlier this season)… says he is anxious to get key players back for closing games of

Kingdom who will be hot favourites to remain unbeaten. As team manager Brian Hanley said after last Saturday’s defeat, the final round games against Wicklow and Donegal look the crucial ties for Roscommon as they bid to stay in the Christy Ring Cup going forward.

Meath: Gavin King; Jarlath Ennis, Sean Geraghty, Lorcan O’Connor (0-1); Eoin Donegan, Daire Shine (0-2), Anthony Healy; Sean Coloe, Kyle Donnelly; Damien Healy (0-1), Lorcan Byrne (0-3), Tom Shine (0-12, 8 frees, 1 ’65); Mikey Cole (0-2), Darren O’Higgins (0-1), Mark Leavy (0-4). Subs: Simon Ennis for Donnelly (h/t), Kyle Ennis (0-1) for Cole (50), Joey Cole (0-1) for Donegan (58), Jack Walsh for

Healy (64).

Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Micheál Hussey (1-0), James Dillon, Jack Dowling; Keelan Ryan, Tommy Morris, Darragh Finn; Ethan Connaughton, Cian Murray (0-1); Adam Donnelly (0-1, free), Cian Bowes, Seán Canning; Conor Mulry (1-0), Jason Martin, Conor Morris (0-8, all frees). Subs: Liam Óg Coyle for Bowes (25), Eamon Mulry for Connaughton (25), Ronan Finn (0-1) for C Mulry (56), Karl Fehily (0-1, free) for Ryan (65), Brian Lowlor for C Morris (72).

Referee: James Judge (Mayo).

Man of the Match

Tom Shine (Meath)

Hanley rues absence of key forwards, remains upbeat

REACTION

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Speaking to People Sport after the match, Roscommon manager Brian Hanley said the fact that a number of players had been unavailable was a crucial factor.

“They (Meath) were the better team on the day, but if we had all our players out there it would have been a different result I think. I thought we did well defensively but we cannot be missing four forwards and expect to win games like these.

“We hope to have those players back for the end of the championship. We won’t have them back for the next game

but we hope to have them back for the last two games, which are crucial.”

Hanley conceded that taking on Kerry in their next fixture will be difficult.

“They are the best team in the division, but our focus now is on finishing well in the last two games against Donegal and Wicklow and to make sure we stay in this division.”

The manager maintained that despite the defeat, there was plenty to be positive about on foot of Roscommon’s display.

“We played well at times out there and we scored 2-12, but we need to be more clinical. We are doing a lot of the right things in games but we are having a bad run at the minute. I would be very confident about our performances going forward if we can get our strongest team out on the field” he concluded.

SPORTS DESK

Golf rankings post the Masters

Rory McIlroy’s momentous Masters win wasn’t enough to elevate him to number one in the world rankings, that honour still firmly in the grasp of Mr Consistency, Scottie Scheffler.

I doubt if this is of much concern to McIlroy just now, as he basks in the afterglow of historic back-to-back successes at Augusta. Of course being the competitor he is, the Northern Irishman will have that number one spot in his sights over the coming period.

By his exceptionally high standards, Scheffler’s form in recent months has been somewhat erratic – but he has a lot of ‘credit in the bank’ and remains undisputed number one, a position he has held since March 2022.

And even though he’s been starting tournaments relatively poorly, Scheffler tends to play his way into the high placings by day four, as he did at Augusta, where he finished runner-up to McIlroy (Scheffer also came second in last weekend’s RBC Heritage in South Carolina, pipped in a play-off by Matt Fitzpatrick). Much more consistent than

Rory, and a serial winner on tour, the American remains at number one. It will be fascinating to see how Scheffler and McIlroy navigate the other three majors this year.

Shane Lowry is now at a disappointing 34th in the world rankings. His miserable final round (80) at the Masters is a concern, coming as it did after the Offaly man floundered when within sight of the winning post in two tournaments already this year. Lowry could have won the Dubai Invitational in January, but he chipped into the water and double-bogeyed the final hole. Worse followed in February when he led the Cognizant Classic by three shots with three holes to play, only to suffer a heartbreaking collapse over those closing holes, victory again snatched from his grasp.

Clearly Lowry is struggling with the pressure that comes with being in contention on the final day of a competition. It may be that Lowry – who is so brilliant when at his best – will need to enter the final round of a tournament at least four or five shots ahead if he’s to get back to winning ways.

Missing John at The Crucible

Spare a thought for the BBC commentary team (indeed for everyone involved in their TV coverage) at the World Snooker Championship, now underway at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

When the tournament began last Saturday, a familiar face – maybe an even more familiar voice – was absent. In the same way that those of us who

have lost a loved one (or loved ones) might dread a first Christmas or first birthday without them, millions of snooker fans were very aware of this ‘first’ milestone… a first World Snooker Championship tournament without John Virgo. The much-loved charismatic commentator (and ex-player) died suddenly in February of this year.

Listening to Dennis Taylor, Steve Davis, Ken Doherty, Stephen Hendry and colleagues commentate this week, one could only imagine the emotions they must be feeling. Virgo, not least because of the theatrical style he perfected, was the ‘voice of snooker’ for many years.

His love for what he did was heartwarming. Even those who never met Virgo thought of him as a friend, a reassuring presence in our living rooms during the snooker coverage. He is much missed these days and nights in the Crucible… the great theatre without one of its leading lights.

Return of the Sky Blues

Welcome back to the Premier League… Coventry City. After a 25-year absence (they were relegated in 2001), the Sky Blues are back.

I’ve always had a soft spot for Coventry. They won the FA Cup in 1987, managed at the time by larger-than-life character John Sillett, remembered to this day as a legend of the club.

There were other reasons why this relatively unfashionable club was on the radar of young Irish soccer fans who were invariably (mostly) drawn to Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal

and Leeds United in the 1970s and ‘80s. For one, Irish international Gerry Daly played for Coventry (1980-1984). And my memory is that rather like West Ham, Ipswich, West Brom and a few others, Coventry in that era tended to play attacking football, with flair and abandon. We found it easy to like them. Last Friday, Coventry secured promotion back to the top flight. I’m glad for manager Frank Lampard, who has had his ups and downs in management. Their 25-year exile wasn’t a mundane period of hibernation. At one point they were relegated to League

One (the fourth tier of English football). In 2013, the club fell into administration. Their promotion is a good news story.

As for John Sillett, he died in 2021, aged 85. There’s a lovely tribute to him on YouTube (with ‘Abide With Me’ as the soundtrack). That man would have bled ‘sky blue’. I’m sure his loved ones, and many more Coventry fans, imagine him this week looking down… with his clenched fists, his boundless enthusiasm, and his broad smile.

Championship PEOPLE

RayGannon

What was the first Roscommon game you attended?

The league final in 1974. Roscommon against Kerry in Croke Park. John Egan got a late goal for Kerry to bring it to a replay (which Kerry won).

The game that stands out most for you?

The 1980 All-Ireland final. I know Roscommon lost it (to Kerry) but it’s still a big memory, it was something special. The elements didn’t help Roscommon that day, they didn’t suit our style of play. But that Roscommon team is still admired to this day.

The greatest Roscommon player you’ve ever seen?

The late Dermot Earley, top right, was unique. He had everything… ability, charisma, enthusiasm, leadership. I met his brother, Paul, on the subway in New York last week. We spent an hour or so reminiscing on the journey from downtown Manhattan to Gaelic Park.

After Roscommon, what’s your favourite team?

I love Kerry football. I love their style and their skills. They bring an extra spark to a game. No Kerry team is easily beaten. They have serious spirit. They are truly the aristocrats.

Have you a favourite commentator from over 50 years of following Gaelic Games?

Micheal O’Hehir was great. So was Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. Our own Willie (Hegarty) is hard to beat. He’s a mighty character. A jewel. Willie and Nigel (Dineen) do a great job… great passion. They’re listened to in bars and houses all over the world.

Have you a set routine on match-day?

No set routine. I take it one day at a time. It might depend on where the game is or what time it’s at. Sometimes I might bring family members, sometimes friends. One thing about me is I love getting in on the pitch after the game! I love meeting people. I met more people on the pitch in Gaelic Park than elsewhere (in New York).

I love that aspect of it. Meeting Roscommon people away from home is particularly special. We have a bond. We’re all hunting the Holy Grail.

Speaking of the Holy Grail, do you hold out hope of seeing Roscommon emulating the stars of the 1940s and winning the Sam Maguire Cup again?

I hope I live long enough to see it. We have a good team at the moment. They just need a bit of fine-tuning. If we beat Mayo on Sunday – and they are expected to beat us well – that will be a start. You take it one game at a time. You need a bit of luck too.

But I’ve nothing against Mayo. In fact I’d love to see Aidan O’Shea winning an All-Ireland medal, and not every Rossie would say that. He has given great commitment over the years.

How good was the recent trip to New York?

I went to Gaelic Park with my wife Geraldine – the love of my life – and our daughter Karina. We struggle to get some of them to go to the Hyde! It was one of the best trips I ever made following

Roscommon. I had great craic with John Naughton (pictured with Ray on the Gaelic Park pitch after Roscommon’s win over New York). Just brilliant.

Finally Ray, what has the GAA meant to you in your life?

It’s everything! Well, in terms of sport… it’s all GAA for me. I’m not really into any other sport. We were born and bred into the GAA.

Any parish I’m passing through in the country, if I see a game on, I’ll pull up and have a look. It’s in our DNA.

Any parish I’m passing through, if I see a game on I’ll pull up and have a look.

CONNACHT SFC SEMI-FINAL: MAYO V ROSCOMMON

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Elphin man Fintan Cregg came off the bench to kick the winning point deep into injury-time as Roscommon defeated Mayo in the championship for the first time in 33 years at MacHale Park following a pulsating match that went all the way to the wire.

Roscommon began strongly and goals from Cathal Cregg and Ultan Harney put them in the driving seat, the visitors leading 2-6 to 0-10 at half-time. Conor Cox and goalkeeper Darren O’Malley were on target with vital points to keep the Rossies ahead, but a string of unanswered points from James Horan’s side saw Mayo level the scores by the 51st minute.

It was a thrilling finish with the momentum swinging one way and then the

other before sub Fintan Cregg grabbed a dramatic winner in time added on in the pouring rain.

Roscommon: Darren O’Malley (0-3, 1f, 2 ‘45s); David Murray, Sean Mullooly, Conor Daly (0-1); Niall Daly, Conor Hussey, Ronan Daly; Tadhg O’Rourke, Shane Killoran; Hubert Darcy, Cathal Cregg (1-0), Niall Kilroy; Ultan Harney (1-0), Conor Cox (0-5, 2 frees), Andy Glennon (0-1). Subs: Diarmuid Murtagh for Glennon; Enda Smith (0-1) for C Cregg; Donie Smith for Harney; Conor Devaney for Darcy; Brian Stack for R Daly; Fintan Cregg (0-1) for Kilroy.

Mayo: Rob Hennelly; Chris Barrett, Brendan Harrison, Keith Higgins; Paddy Durcan (0-2), Michael Plunkett, Lee Keegan (0-1); Matthew Ruane (0-2), Aidan O’Shea; Fergal Boland (0-2), Jason Doherty (0-1, free), Diarmuid O’Connor; Evan Regan (0-3, 2 frees), Darren Coen (0-5), Kevin McLoughlin. Subs: Andy Moran (0-1) for Coen; Conor Diskin for Regan; Colm Loftus for Doherty; Cian Treacy for Moran (b/c).

Referee: David Gough (Meath).

Last championship meeting between the counties

Mayo began strongly, Aidan O’Shea scoring a goal in the 8th minute to set them on their way. Diarmuid Murtagh was on song for Roscommon (with 0-5), but Mayo’s Ryan O’Donoghue would end up as man of the match, scoring 0-7.

Mayo led by 1-6 to 0-8 at the break and although the home side battled away to the end, they never looked like reeling in the visitors.

Mayo: Colm Reape; Jack Coyne, Rory Brickenden, Sam Callinan; Paddy Durcan (0-1), David McBrien, Donnacha McHugh; Stephen Coen, Matthew Ruane; Jordan Flynn, Ryan O’Donoghue (0-7, 4 frees), Jack Carney; Fergal Boland (0-2), Aidan O’Shea (1-1), Tommy Conroy (0-2). Subs: Enda Hession for McHugh (h/t), Conor Loftus (0-2) for Durcan (47), Bob Tuohy for O’Shea (59), Paul Towey for Flynn (63), Padraig O’Hora for Coyne (66). Roscommon: Conor Carroll; David Murray, Brian Stack, Niall Higgins; Niall Daly (0-1), Ruaidhrí Fallon, Eoin McCormack (0-1); Enda Smith, Ultan Harney; Dylan Ruane, Daire Cregg (0-4, 2 frees), Ronan Daly; Ben O’Carroll (0-1), Diarmuid Murtagh (0-5, 2 frees), Donie Smith (0-1). Subs: Paddy Gavin for Murray (29), Tadhg O’Rourke for Ruane (50), Shane Cunnane for Ronan Daly (59), Conor Cox for Donie Smith (63), James Fitzpatrick for Harney (66). Referee: Sean Hurson (Tyrone).

CONNACHT SFC SEMI-FINAL: MAYO

Cathal Cregg expecting a close contest on Sunday

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Former Roscommon captain Cathal Cregg reckons that Sunday’s game is actually a “50-50” fixture –with Roscommon having a great chance to upset the odds. “I don’t see why Roscommon are 9/4 (Mayo are 4/9). I think that’s a great price (for Roscommon). They have every chance” Cregg told People Sport.

“It looks a very even game to me. Both teams have played very well and (also) very poorly in the league, and both have been lacking consistency. But on their best form these are two good teams and there is not any more than two or three points between them.”

Cathal says that Daire Cregg will be a huge loss, with the in-form forward set to miss the game due to a one-match suspension.

“He has been one of our best players this year and will be a massive loss.”

The Western Gaels star says he doesn’t expect there to be many changes on the Roscommon team for Sunday.

“It’s great that the likes of Ruaidhrí Fallon and Brian Stack are back from injury although I would say that they will be held on the bench… to come on and make an impact.”

He has been very impressed with some of the new players on the Roscommon panel this year.

“Caelim Keogh and Senan Lambe have been superb in defence and Ronan Daly has made the centre half-back spot his own. Conor Ryan is doing very well at midfield too.”

The midfield battle is key, according to Cathal. “Keith Doyle and Conor Ryan have done well at midfield. That area will be crucial on Sunday. Roscommon will have to get at least a 50/50 break in that sector if they are to win it.”

He is impressed by the Mayo attack.

“Ryan O’Donoghue is playing well all the time and I have been really impressed by Darragh Beirne and even more so than Kobe McDonald. Beirne looks a class player, very dangerous, and will have to be well marked. Aidan O’Shea is a threat all the time and he is still a key man for Mayo.”

If Roscommon can hit form there is no reason why they cannot win, according to the former intercounty ace, a veteran of matches of this nature.

“Under the new rules the battle in the ‘middle third’ is vital and if Roscommon can get enough ball there they can win. I am expecting a closely fought battle and hopefully a Roscommon win” he concluded.

Action from the recent Allianz Football League Division One game between Mayo and Roscommon in MacHale Park, Castlebar. Conor Ryan (Roscommon) protects possession under pressure from Michael Plunkett and Jack Carney. Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

Mayo may have edge as epic derby anticipated

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I think it’s fair to say that the biggest rivalry for Roscommon football supporters in recent times has been the one with Mayo. People who live along the Galway border would most likely strongly argue that point, but in the past couple of decades especially, games between Roscommon and Mayo have all been particularly

eagerly anticipated. This Sunday’s fixture is right up there with any in recent years. There are many elements as to why this weekend’s game is special. To start with, there are two new managers. Mark Dowd took over Roscommon when expectations were low. Dowd and his selectors went about their task quietly, and found several new players who

took to playing intercounty football like the proverbial ducks to water. Dowd started the season without the St Brigid’s and Strokestown players (due to their respective provincial/All-Ireland club commitments). As it was, Roscommon played some wonderful football in the league and preserved their Division One status with a round to spare.

Andy Moran has taken

the reins in Mayo. One of the most popular personalities in the county, the former ‘footballer of the year’ has¬ reignited the huge passion there is for the game in Mayo. He has introduced young stars like Darragh Beirne, Fenton Kelly, Cian McHale and Kobe McDonald, and his team are playing attractive, attacking football. So all the ingredients are there

for a cracking game of championship football on Sunday.

I’m expecting a huge performance from Roscommon. With most of the injured players having returned to training, it will be very interesting to see if the selectors opt to play the likes of Brian Stack, Ruaidhrí Fallon and Cian McKeon from the start. My guess is that all three will be kept in reserve.

CONNACHT SFC SEMI-FINAL:

Conor Carroll is likely to be retained between the posts – which is hard luck on Aaron Brady – but it is very positive that we have two excellent goalkeepers on the panel. Carroll will have a huge role to play again on Sunday.

The full-back line of Paddy Gavin, Caelim Keogh and Eoin McCormack looks solid, but they will be up against the likes of Aidan O’Shea, Darragh Beirne and Cian McHale, who have been playing well for Mayo.

The half-back line that started for Roscommon in New York was Eoin Ward, Ronan Daly and Senan Lambe. It’s arguably been the strongest line on the team this year. If Brian Stack is fit, the selectors may be tempted to slot him in, but my guess is that the St Brigid’s star will be kept in reserve.

Keith Doyle and Conor Ryan are the men in

possession at midfield with Shane Cunnane snapping at their heels for a starting place. This will be a crucial area on Sunday. Mayo have been doing well with Bob Tuohy and David McBrien or Jack Carney operating there for the green and red. Possession around the middle of the field will be absolutely crucial.

Daire Cregg will be a massive loss to our attack.

On Monday night, an appeal against his one-game suspension (following his sending-off against New York) was rejected.

Enda Smith and Diarmuid Murtagh will shoulder the leadership responsibilities in his absence, and Rob and Darragh Heneghan and Dylan Ruane will all surely start too.

In the absence of Cregg, Conor Hand, Ben O’Carroll or the fit-again Ruaidhrí Fallon could step in. That will be a huge decision for the selectors.

Continue the progress

The recent league meeting between the teams in Castlebar can’t be viewed as any serious pointer ahead of Sunday’s game.

That said, the 21-point defeat was certainly not ideal preparation for Roscommon.

Roscommon will give Mayo plenty to think about on the day but it will be a very difficult fixture for Mark Dowd and his players. The visitors will be looking to secure at least 50% possession from kickouts, and for Diarmuid Murtagh and Enda Smith

to play as well as they have been doing so far this year.

Mayo look to have a very strong bench. Against London, they brought on the likes of Jordan Flynn, Tommy Conroy, Cillian O’Connor, Diarmuid O’Connor and Stephen Coen. This Sunday, I don’t expect Andy Moran to start young superstar Kobe McDonald, but to instead introduce him as a sub at some stage to lift the team and supporters.

There will be a huge crowd and a cracking atmosphere. Roscommon

have every chance of upsetting the odds – if they can play to the standard we have seen a number of times during the National League, then a win is certainly possible. But looking at both squads it is hard not to conclude that Mayo might be just too strong in a number of areas, such as in midfield, and in terms of their potential bench impact in the final quarter. It will be close, but Mayo look the better bet. I take them to edge it by a point or two. Prediction: Mayo.

TEL. 086 2549815 • Email: cllr.mholland@roscommoncoco.ie

Sports PEOPLE

Blow for Rossies as Cregg to miss Mayo game

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Roscommon’s prospects of winning this Sunday’s big Connacht semi-final clash against Mayo at MacHale Park in Castlebar have been dealt a blow with news earlier this week that in-form forward Daire Cregg will miss the game through suspension.

Cregg received a red card in

the final minute of the first half of Roscommon’s recent game against New York in Gaelic Park after an incident with New York’s Sean Wilson.

The Boyle forward appealed that decision to the GAA’s Central Hearings Committee on Monday night. It is understood that the committee ruled not to overturn the decision, with referee Brendan

Cawley’s report being accepted in full.

It means that as matters stand Cregg is suspended for one match and is therefore ruled out of Sunday’s Connacht SFC semi-final against Mayo.

Roscommon manager Mark Dowd is expected to name his team tonight (Thursday).

(See full match preview on pages 40-43).

Action heats up …

Daire Cregg in action against Galway during the 2026 Allianz Football League. Cregg’s onegame suspension, arising from his sending-o against New York, has been upheld, and he is due to miss this weekend’s Connacht SFC semi- nal against Mayo.

Photo: Bernie O’Farrell

CHAMPIONSHIP WATCH

Munster SFC semi-final: Tipperary v Cork in Thurles on Saturday at 2 pm

Cork footballers are steadily improving under John Cleary, with promotion to Division One in the league a welcome boost for them. Tipperary are on the slide, suggesting Cork should win handsomely here.

Prediction: Cork.

Munster SFC semi-final: Clare v Kerry in Ennis on Saturday at 2 pm

The champions will get to stretch their legs in Ennis ahead of more serious tests down the line. An easy win for Jack O’Connor’s men is on the cards.

Prediction: Kerry.

Ulster SFC quarter-final: Fermanagh v Armagh in Enniskillen on Saturday at 5.30 pm Armagh have a severe test against Tyrone behind them, which is bad news for Fermanagh. Fermanagh will put up a decent show but are very unlikely to ruffle Armagh’s feathers.

Prediction: Armagh.

Ulster SFC quarter-final: Donegal v Down in Letterkenny on Sunday at 3 pm

This looks like being a close contest. Down have improved and will give Jimmy McGuinness’ side plenty to think about. Having said that, it would be a massive shock if Donegal don’t win this with a bit to spare. Donegal have eyes on the big prize later in the year and are unlikely to slip up.

Prediction: Donegal.

Connacht SFC semi-final: Leitrim v Galway in Carrick-on-Shannon on Saturday at 3.30 pm

Leitrim had a fantastic win against Sligo in the quarter-final but this is a major step up. In Carrick, Leitrim could cause a few nervous moments for Pádraic Joyce’s men, but Galway should win by five or six points.

Prediction: Galway.

Connacht SFC semi-final: Mayo v Roscommon in Castlebar on Sunday at 4 pm

A fascinating game in prospect as the great rivals meet following Mayo’s win over London and Roscommon’s victory in New York. See detailed preview in this sports section.

Leinster SHC: Kilkenny v Wexford in Kilkenny on Saturday at 6.30 pm

Kilkenny were well beaten by Galway last weekend while Wexford were unimpressive when accounting for Kildare. This should be a cracking contest. The losers will be in trouble. Kilkenny get a hesitant vote to win.

Prediction: Kilkenny.

Leinster SHC: Dublin v Kildare in Parnell Park, Dublin on Sunday at 3 pm Dublin will hope to bounce back after their draw against Offaly last weekend and they should be good enough to beat Kildare.

Prediction: Dublin.

Leinster SHC: Galway v Offaly in Pearse Stadium on Sunday at 3.30 pm

Galway were very impressive against Kilkenny last weekend and they should account for Offaly in this, their second round robin outing.

Prediction: Galway.

Munster SHC: Cork v Limerick in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday at 2 pm

It doesn’t get any bigger than this one. There will be over 40,000 people in to see this clash of the heavyweights. Limerick seem to have the edge in recent months but at home Cork are sure to put in a huge performance. Limerick to edge it by a couple of points. It could be another classic.

Prediction: Limerick.

Munster SHC: Waterford v Tipperary in Azzurri Walsh Park on Sunday at 4 pm Both sides were defeated last weekend and will be anxious not to lose two in a row. Tipperary looked good against Cork while Waterford conceded a big score against Clare. Tipp to get back on the winning trail.

Prediction: Tipperary.