Roscommon People - 31 July 2026

Accident on Holidays

I recently returned from my summer holidays abroad and unfortunately I sustained a relatively serious injury at the apartment complex where I was staying. I cut my leg on a sharp tile in the swimming pool and I was hospitalised for a number of days. I booked my package holiday through a tour operator and whilst their representative was very helpful she did not offer me any advice regarding compensation for my injuries. Given that the incident occurred abroad am I obliged to issue legal proceedings abroad?

If you booked your holiday as a “package holiday” through a tour operator you may be able to make an injury compensation claim against the tour operator for your injuries and any related financial losses.

A package holiday is defined under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 (as amended), including amendments made by the European Union (Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements) Regulations 2019 (the “Act”) as a combination of two or more of the following, when sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price:- (i) transport; (ii) accommodation; (iii) other significant elements of a tourist service nature.

Under the Act a tour operator may be held responsible for all of the services provided as part of a package holiday including holiday accommodation. Consequently, the tour operator may be liable if the accommodation fails to comply with the standards of health and safety in that country.

Legal proceedings may be brought before the Courts in the country where the injured party resides or where the incident occurred. Obviously, it is preferable to bring proceedings in one’s own country.

It is important to engage a Solicitor as soon as possible to advise you on the best course of action to take.

A

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

Boyos react to Mayo taking over the entire world…

Wow! What a weekend!

WHAT A WEEK!

Everywhere I go, everywhere I see… Sounds like a Boomtown Rats song… Huh?

Oh forget it.

Anyway, everywhere I turn… MAYO?

Yes… MAYO!

It’s… unreal!

(They pause to watch more clips of Mayorelated mayhem)

Did you get the email… from the Editor? Yeah! Not like him… he’s usually more, I dunno… laissez-faire!

Exactly! Not like him to send us a directive! He usually ignores us!

Seemingly he’s been very taken by Mayo’s win!

Like the whole country, and half the world!

I guess he’s an old sentimentalist at heart! Maybe… but I also heard a rumour that he backed them to win! Anyway, that email… fancy gently encouraging us to write about Mayo’s win!

Which we were always likely to do…

Yeah, but I think because we’re such passionate Rossies, he was afraid we’d go rogue!

Never! And let’s face it, midst all the banter, we’re both happy for Mayo!

(They pause to watch even more Mayorelated reels)

Ah yeah, very happy for Mayo, although…

Endangered Species

The barstool boyos

Oh please…

Wasn’t it the Editor himself who took inspiration from the Monty Python line – ‘What did the Romans ever do for us?’

– when he wrote about Galway hurlers recently?

I only read Frank Brandon… Oh come on!

I was joking…

Point is, what HAS Mayo ever done for us?

Are we really doing this? YEP!

Well, Mayo gave us magical Achill… Okay, but apart from Achill… Bustling Westport?

Okay, fair enough…

Monsignor Horan and Knock Airport…

That’s a good one in fairness, but APART from that…

Joe Biden and Charlie Haughey… and Pee Flynn!

(Editor: Careful!)

Well, apart from some colourful politicians, and Westport, and Achill, and Knock Airport, what have the Mayos ever done for us?

Cora Staunton! Mary Robinson! Fair enough, accomplished ladies… The McDonalds, Ciarán and Kobe… Okay…

Enda Kenny…

Ahem!

Croagh Patrick…

Indeed…

Mayo also gave us… Michael Ring! Michael’s a legend!

Well what ELSE has Mayo done for us?

Louis Walsh?

Well, the Mayo footballers certainly have the X Factor this week! So my friend, between this column and the sports pages and all the social media stuff, nobody can say the Roscommon People hasn’t rowed in behind our neighbours! Indeed! Hail the new All-Ireland champions! So is this the new world order? Is it a Roscommon-Mayo love-in from now on? You must be joking! This is a temporary little arrangement! This love-in will expire in due course! Roll on Mayo v Roscommon in the National League!

Both: Well done Mayo, and come on the Rossies!

Grants for Ballygar and Kilkerrin welcomed

Galway Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Connolly has welcomed the allocation of €12,523.30 from Galway County Council under the Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) for a community project in Ballygar.

The project involves Ballygar Tidy Towns, Ballygar Men’s Shed, BTN Cloud 9 Youth Club, students from Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar Parish volunteers and the Courthouse Café.

The funding will be used to purchase a lawnmower, hedge strimmer and trimmer, plants, trees, watering equipment, LED lighting, solar lights and recycled planters.

Cllr Connolly said the allocation was good news for Ballygar and represented deserved recognition for everyone involved in the local community.

Councillor Connolly has also wel-

comed the allocation of €1,127 to Kilkerrin Tidy Towns under the Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF).

The funding will be used to purchase hedging, apple trees, shrubs, hedge trimmers and leaf blowers.

Cllr Connolly said the allocation was welcome recognition of the good work being carried out by the Kilkerrin Tidy Towns Committee.

Certificate in Psychology 2026/27

In association with Maynooth University

“Completing the Psychology Course has changed the way I approach my work as an agricultural advisor, it has reminded me that sometimes the most valuable support I can offer isn’t just technical advice its making someone feel heard, understood and less alone.” – Brendan.

I would strongly encourage anyone who is even slightly interested or curious about Psychology and getting back into education to do this course. You are so well supported as an adult learner by the course facilitators, and it has definitely opened doors for me and led onto discovering a new direction for me in my life. I met some wonderful new friends through Vita House and am sorry I didn’t take the leap sooner.” – Shanna.

Why do people think, feel, and behave the way they do?

Explore these questions and more in this engaging introduction to psychology. Learn about human behaviour, wellbeing, communication, motivation, learning, and psychological research while developing skills that can enhance both your career and everyday life.

• Open to all over 21 years of age.

• No prior psychology qualification required

• Evening delivery suitable for working adults

• There are up to 25 places available

Closing Date: September 11th for applications

Venue: Vita House, Roscommon, In association with NUI Maynooth.

When: Starting in October – Monday evenings: 7.30pm to 10pm

– 4/5 Saturday lectures – TBC

– Visit to NUI Maynooth – TBC

Course Delivery: Onsite, In Person

Cost: €1200 *Instalment plan available with inquiry

DURING THE COURSE, YOU WILL

• Gain a solid understanding of key psychological perspectives, including biological, cognitive, behavioural, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches.

• Apply psychological concepts to everyday life, work, and society.

• Learn from experienced Psychology lecturers and subject experts.

• Develop transferable skills for people-focused careers and family life.

• Strengthen academic writing, communication, and teamwork skills.

• Explore further study and career opportunities with professional guidance.

PROGRESSION

The Certificate in Psychology is a Level 7 course validated by NUI Maynooth worth 20 credits. This course can be used as a platform for further studies. Enquiries on course progression and content to Eithne Jarrett on 0857322261

“After my brain injury, I wasn’t sure what the future would look like.

Starting the psychology course was a leap of faith, but it gave me purpose, confidence, and a new direction. It showed me that recovery isn’t just about getting back to where you were – it’s about discovering who you can become.” – Derek.

“It was an invaluable experience … it gave me the courage and the strength to go forward... I will always be indebted to this Course and Vita House for creating a pathway for me to continue in further education and complete a 4 Year Degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy.” – Donal.

FRIDAY

All bet are off...

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

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

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

According to the message pinging into my phone, my ‘€549 transaction to Paddy Power’ has been paused. Yawn. I don’t reply to suspicious messages/phisting. Besides, I don’t bet. But I would bet €549 that this is an attempted scam that’s going nowhere...

SATURDAY

Up for Up for the Match?

I suppose it took great courage on my part – some might say foolhardiness too – but I will openly admit that I tuned into ‘Up for the Match’ for the first time in years tonight. I don’t know what came over me; it was obviously a moment of great weakness. If I was to do it again, I would of course engage in months of preparation for the trauma (is that too strong a word?) of watching ‘Up for the Match’ – in the same way that one wouldn’t take on the Dublin Marathon without doing some extensive road running over the previous months.

Ah yes, if I was doing it again, I’d have binge-watched episodes of ‘The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In’ – I believe copies can be obtained from shady looking characters under the cover of darkness.

As it was, ‘Up for the Match’ actually wasn’t quite as cringey as I’d remembered it. Staging the programme high up in Croke Park (as opposed to in an RTE studio) sort of worked. And there were a few nice segments featuring ‘unsung heroes’ – that also worked.

These initiatives weren’t quite strong enough to overcome the general tedium for neutral viewers. As ever, there were bland, cliché-heavy, folksy chats with guests, tiresome hollering from audience members who must be desperate to be seen on TV, and a bit of live music.

It was all gamely hosted by Dáithí Ó Sé and Jacqui Hurley (assisted by Louise Cantillon), none of whom

took themselves too seriously. As far as I’m aware, the mandatory number of references to ‘Coppers’ were made!

SUNDAY

What Mayo did next

A thrilling All-Ireland football final ends in a historic victory for Mayo… amid extraordinarily emotional scenes. My match report is in our sports section.

Below, my musings on what it must all mean to ‘Mayo GAA Man/ Woman’ – as represented by four men we encountered in a pub in Foxford recently.

Congratulations to Mayo, and to all Mayo-ites in Roscommon!

SUNDAY

Four men at the bar

One of the four men sitting at the bar counter said he was 70 years of age. He said that when we finally got talking, time by then passing slowly in that hypnotic way it does in rural pubs where old photographs and framed, witty sayings adorn the walls. We had gone into the bar in Foxford on the afternoon of the Kerry v Dublin All-Ireland semi-final (Mayo having

beaten Louth the previous day).

The four hardy men at the counter were cheerful and relaxed, but they couldn’t hide what appeared to be the reality… that they were merely waiting to see who would conquer their not quite oven-ready young guns.

After a while (as I wrote here recently) the four Mayo men turned almost in unison and proceeded to engage us in conversation. It was a quiet Sunday afternoon. Soon, a beautiful friendship was born, rather like in that closing scene in Casablanca

We chatted GAA, sprinkling snippets of mutual football knowledge around. The Mayo men veered from fearing Kerry would hammer them in the final, to occasionally allowing the faintest slice of fantasy to slip into the rolling narrative.

When we left, we shook hands, and wished Mayo well in the final. These were decent men. No longer young men. Like every Mayo person of his age on the planet, the man who told us he was 70 had reached three score and ten without seeing his county win Sam. He had a twinkle in his eye, a ready quip, and the hands of a hard-working man. He didn’t hold out that much hope. People of a certain age in Mayo have encountered so much heartbreak over the years, their capacity to dream has been weakened. 70 is very far

from old these days, but this man had been to the ‘well of hope’ and come back empty-handed too many times. It felt like he couldn’t afford to keep dreaming.

As long as we don’t get hammered (by Kerry) it won’t be too bad, one of the men said… this comment a sobering symbol of what decades of crushed dreams can do. And yet, in their eyes, you could still see seeds of hope.

Outside the pub, a funeral was passing. Locals stood in respect for the deceased. The men at the bar dispersed, into the sunny afternoon, into the embrace of their community. Two weeks later, their lifetime dreams came true. I’d like to call back to Foxford, to see those men now. After a lifetime of sporting disappointment by instalments, their lives have changed. Life’s problems haven’t gone away, but like all their fellow long-suffering county folk, the hardy men at the bar counter have been granted the priceless prize that generations have craved.

MONDAY

Stars remembered Northern Ireland has produced its share of accomplished presenters/broadcasters over the years… including Gloria

Hunniford, Eamonn Holmes (less likeable after he rather shamelessly became his own biggest fan!) and the late Gerry Anderson.

One of the best was Gerry Kelly. I was sorry to hear of his passing, announced on Sunday (he died on Saturday, aged 77).

Kelly had a great career on TV and radio. Twinkly-eyed, genial, charming, he was a natural as a chat show host. While he interviewed many famous people, Kelly will probably be remembered most (in the nature of such matters) for his interaction with eight-yearold Rory McIlroy when the future golf superstar appeared on his show. As you can see on YouTube, the boy wonder proceeded to hit golf balls into a washing machine!

Meanwhile, the death was announced today of Bill Oddie. Readers of a certain vintage may remember him as one of The Goodies, a very popular comedy trio from the 1970s. As a fan of surreal humour (Spike Milligan, Monty Python, etc) I liked the daft, anarchic comedy of The Goodies.

Oddie left the comedy scene a long, long time ago, going on to become something of a national treasure in England as a popular and respected naturalist and conservationist who presented various wildlife programmes. Bill Oddie died on Saturday, aged 85.

TUESDAY

Elon wants more!

Allegedly overheard in high-level business circles (we can’t confirm if it’s true or not).

“I hear Elon Musk is considering selling up all his companies…”

“Really? To have a quieter life? Has he lost his motivation to make money?”

“Far from it! He’s as money-hungry as ever… apparently he’s hoping to get a job – and commission – looking after future royalties for The Saw Doctors!”

*It’s another Mayo reference; normal service will resume next week.

NewsPeople

Ronan Hegarty Kitchens & Wardrobes is the way to go!

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‘Massive Rossie Celebration & Commemoration Day’

< LIAM DUNNE

On Saturday, August 8th

Roscommon GAA supporters from near and far are invited to a special celebration day at Fairy-

mount Memorial Garden (Eircode: F45 E288). The event will be a celebration of Roscommon GAA’s tremendous success this year with eight different teams winning

Connacht titles in 2026, and some All-Ireland success too! Past teams, players and successes will also be commemorated.

A highlight of the day will be the unveiling of

new commemorative plaques in the garden, featuring detailed accounts of all of Roscommon’s All-Ireland-winning GAA teams. From football and ladies

football folklore to hurling and camogie legends, the plaques will chronicle the county’s greatest achievements, accompanied by archival photographs of the teams/ players in action. The production of these commemorative plaques was kindly sponsored by the Castlerea-based ‘All-Star Shredding’.

The day will also see the unveiling of a dedicated memorial section, honouring deceased Roscommon players. A memorial tree-planting ceremony will take place.

This is a project by Fairymount-born Michael Gilligan, who has been adding Roscommon GAA dimensions to the garden in recent years.

All are welcome on Saturday, August 8th, with proceedings commencing at 2.30 pm. The day is sure to be one to remember for Roscommon GAA supporters, and the Fairymount Memorial Garden will be well worth a visit at any time of year!

Our brand new Season Lounge Food Menu is now

embracing the very best flavours of summer with an exciting selection of new dishes, alongside your much loved favourites.

We’re also delighted to introduce our new Terrace Restaurant Menu, offering the perfect setting to celebrate life’s special moments. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, family gathering or simply an evening out, let Francisco and his team make your occasion one to remember. Restaurant bookings are essential.

Our Lounge Food Menu is served daily until 9.00pm, making it the perfect choice for a leisurely dinner and drinks outdoors in our courtyard, casual dining in the bar or a catch-up with friends in our lounge. We are also taking bookings for Afternoon Tea. To reserve your table, email restaurant@abbeyhotel.ie or call 090 6626240. Follow us on Facebook Instagram X and TikTok.

NewsPeople

ARTIST CALL OUT

TWO PUBLIC ART COMMISSIONS IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON

Roscommon County Council Arts Office, in partnership with the Housing Department, invites submissions from artists and artist teams for two exciting Per Cent for Art Commissions.

Clúain na Coillte, Monksland

Permanent Public Artwork Commission Budget: €112,500 (incl. VAT)

Shannon Valley, Ballaghaderreen

Artist in Residence Programme + Permanent Public Artwork Commission Budget: €40,500 (incl. VAT)

Artists may apply for one or both commissions. We are seeking high-quality, creative proposals that respond to place, community, identity and belonging, with community engagement forming an important element of both projects.

Closing Date: 4.00pm, Monday 7 September 2026

For a full Artist Brief and application details contact: artsofficer@roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon County Council Arts Office https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/community/arts-office/public-art.html

Funded through the Per Cent for Art Scheme.

Roscommon County Council announces two major public Art Commission opportunities worth €153,000

Roscommon County Council Arts Office, in collaboration with Roscommon County Council Housing Department, has announced two significant public art commission opportunities under the Per Cent for Art Scheme, with a combined value of €153,000.

The commissions form part of ongoing investment in housing, placemaking and community development and will support the creation of permanent public artworks at Clúain na Coillte, Monksland and Shannon Valley, Ballaghaderreen.

The Council is inviting artists and artist teams from across Ireland to submit proposals that respond creatively to the unique character, history, landscape and community aspirations of each location.

The larger of the two commissions, valued at €112,500, relates to the new Clúain na Coillte social housing development in Monksland, comprising 51 homes currently under construction. The successful artist will be commissioned to design, develop and install a permanent public artwork, or suite of artworks, that will contribute to a strong sense of place, foster community identity and create a welcoming environment for new residents.

A second commission at Shannon Valley, Ballaghaderreen, valued at €40,500, combines a permanent public artwork with an Artist in Residence programme. Delivered in partnership with Creative Places Ballaghaderreen, the commission places socially engaged practice at its heart

Overcrowding, healthcare delays at Castlerea Prison

Serious overcrowding and lengthy delays in accessing healthcare have been highlighted in a new Inspector of Prisons report on Castlerea Prison.

The report followed an unannounced eight-day inspection carried out in September 2025 and was published as part of the Inspector of Prisons’ reporting for the year.

Castlerea Prison was operating at 119 per cent of capacity on the first day of the inspection, with 442 people in custody. 35 prisoners were sleeping on mattresses on cell floors.

The overcrowding was particularly severe in the prison’s A Division, where 26 men were sleeping on floor mattresses. Inspectors also found that

approximately 239 prisoners in the main prison had access to just nine showers.

Access to healthcare was another significant concern. Inspectors were told that people with routine medical issues could wait months to see a doctor and that there was no reliable system for recording how long individual prisoners had been waiting. One in six external hospital appointments scheduled during the first six months of 2025 did not proceed because prison staff were unavailable to escort the prisoner.

Dental services were described as particularly limited. A total of 176 prisoners – around two in every five

people in custody at Castlerea – were on the dental waiting list at the time of the inspection. The estimated waiting time was between 12 and 18 months.

The report also identified positive aspects at the prison. Accommodation in the recently developed Grove Unit was described as excellent, while the quality of food and the scheduling of mealtimes were praised as an example for other prisons.

However, inspectors found that conditions varied significantly across the prison and said some facilities intended to provide training and purposeful activity were being underused.

All systems go for Lecarrow Benevolent Fund auction

and will see the selected artist work closely with residents and local stakeholders as part of an ambitious regeneration project. The residency component will support collaboration, creativity and community participation, helping to shape both the process and the final artwork.

Commenting on the announcement, Áine Butler, Assistant Arts Officer, Roscommon County Council, said:

“These commissions present exciting opportunities for artists to work with communities at important moments of growth, change and renewal. Through the Per Cent for Art Scheme, we are seeking highquality, contemporary public artworks that celebrate local identity, encourage participation and leave a lasting legacy for residents and visitors alike. We particularly welcome proposals that demonstrate meaningful engagement and innovative approaches to placemaking.”

Artists may apply for one or both commissions. Applications are welcomed from artists working across all disciplines who can demonstrate experience in creating original, high-quality public art and delivering meaningful community engagement.

The deadline for submissions is 4.00pm on Monday 7 September 2026.

Full details, including the Artist Brief and submission requirements, are available from Roscommon County Council Arts Office.

For further information, please contact: Roscommon County Council Arts Office Email: artsofficer@roscommoncoco.ie

Lecarrow will be a hive of activity this Bank Holiday weekend when the annual monster auction in aid of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund takes place this Sunday, August 2nd.

The auction will begin at 8 pm in a large marquee beside Coffey’s Bar, with more than 250 lots expected to go under the hammer.

The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund was established in 2001 by a group of community-minded people seeking to assist individuals and organisations experiencing financial difficulty.

Since then, it has raised and distributed more than €950,000 to numer-

ous worthy causes, including helping people facing significant medical treatment costs.

The fund has also supported the purchase of life-saving equipment and the installation and maintenance of defibrillators throughout the area.

Live music will begin in the marquee at 5.30 pm ahead of the auction at 8 pm.

Lots will include livestock, ewe lambs, a live pig, fuel and drinks vouchers, service vouchers, loads of turf, straw, hay and silage bales, agricultural products and much more.

Committee chairperson Billy

Kelly thanked the event’s sponsors and supporters, as well as Sarah Jane and everyone at Coffey’s Bar for once again hosting the annual fundraiser.

He said the local community and visitors to the area were looking forward to what promises to be a hugely enjoyable evening.

The committee also thanked the many volunteers and sponsors whose continued support makes the auction possible each year.

All support for Sunday’s monster auction at Coffey’s Bar in Lecarrow will be greatly appreciated.

Former Boyle Post Office approved for conversion into hostel

Conditional planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of the former Post Office building on Shop Street in Boyle.

Roscommon County Council has approved plans submitted by Aaron Sharkey to alter, refurbish and change the use of the protected structure to an eight-bedroom hostel.

The proposed accommodation will include communal facilities and an

ancillary takeaway coffee facility.

The development will also involve the demolition of an existing shed and the conversion of an outbuilding into storage space for the hostel, including a bicycle store, bin store and utility area. A total of 12 conditions have been attached to the council’s planning permission.

The building was constructed in

1910 and operated as Boyle’s post office for more than a century.

The post office closed at the beginning of February, with services relocating to Kelly’s SuperValu in the town.

Roscommon County Council had requested further information about the proposed change of use in June before granting permission for the project last week.

Racing resumes on Tuesday

It’s well into the meat of the racing season at Roscommon, and preparations are underway as the course gets ready to stage an all-jumps card on Tuesday, August 4th

The ground staff have been working hard looking after the track, during what has been a protracted dry spell. While the warm weather is welcome, it also presents its own challenges; thankfully, the course has its own water supply, and so is ‘in a good place’.

All the major yards are expected to be well represented on Tuesday. Despite what has been a busy summer of racing, field sizes have remained very solid, and more of the same is expected in Roscommon on Tuesday.

The fashionistas will be out in force too, with significant prizes for the Best Dressed Gentleman and Most Stylish Lady up for grabs! The men will be vying for a top prize of a Remus Suit, sponsored by Donnellan & Co., while there is a €1,000 voucher from Michael K Diamonds for the Most Stylish Lady.

Race sponsors include James Lohan Engineering, DNG Ivan Connaughton, JF Hanley Groundscare, Kepak Athleague, Campbell’s Bar, Ballinlough, and Brian Keenan Bookmakers. Brian and his son (and namesake, Brian) are local and great supporters for all things racing at Roscommon. The best turned out prizes are sponsored by P&G Cards, Athleague. Keep an eye on the Roscommon

Racecourse’s social platforms for more details. Anyone with an interest in getting involved is encouraged to get in contact. All feedback is important and highly appreciated.

There will be entertainment both on and off the track, and any holiday-makers who are close by are more than welcome to join for what promises to be a great night’s sport!

A list of remaining fixtures and all other information, which includes ticket information, can be found on roscommonracecourse.ie. For enquiries, email contact@roscommonracecourse.ie or phone 087 2203288.

Roscommon racecourse: come for the racing, stay for the craic!

Keadue Tidy Towns to host annual 5K Run and Walk

The annual Keadue Tidy Towns 5K Run and Walk will take place on Friday, July 31st.

Proceeds from the event will be divided between Keadue Tidy Towns and SHOUT – the Sligo Hospital Oncology Unit Trust – which supports cancer patients and their families throughout the northwest. Registration will take place in St Ronan’s Hall from 6.30 pm, with the run and walk beginning at 7 pm.

Refreshments and a prize-giving ceremony will follow the event. Everyone is welcome to participate.

Kilcroan Cemetery Mass on August 16

The annual Cemetery Mass will take place in Kilcroan Cemetery, Ballymoe, on Sunday, August 16th, at 3 pm. During the Mass, all those buried in the cemetery will be remembered and prayed for. A collection will be held on the day to support the ongoing care and improvement of the cemetery. Funds raised will go towards general maintenance, the cemetery’s digital mapping project and the installation of a new graveyard sign.

The support of the local community would be greatly appreciated.

Special Healing Mass in Curraghboy

A special Family Tree Healing Mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Prayer Centre in Curraghboy on Friday, August 7th, beginning at 8 pm.

Fr Gerry Campbell will be the celebrant, with Confessions available from 6.30 pm. The Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited at 7.30 pm.

Fr Campbell will bless Holy water and religious items following the Mass. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and individual blessings for healing will also take place.

Refreshments will be served afterwards and everyone is welcome to attend. Eircode for the prayer centre is N37 W704.

Most Stylish Lady

& 3rd

Athleague prepares for End of Summer Festival

Athleague will come alive with music, entertainment and family activities when its End of Summer Festival returns from Friday, August 21st to Sunday, August 23rd

Now in its second year, the festival will feature a fully covered dance floor, licensed bar, live performances, children’s events and activities celebrating the history and community of Athleague.

Organised by a dedicated local committee, the festival has become a vibrant addition to the summer calendar in the west of Ireland.

Tickets for the evening concerts are available through Eventbrite and can also be purchased at the door.

Friday, August 21st: Country Music Night

The festival begins with a night celebrating Irish country music.

Brendan Shine will take to the stage at 10 pm, bringing more than five decades of performing experience to Athleague.

Mike Denver will headline the evening from midnight with his high-energy live show and catalogue of popular hits.

Doors open at 9.30 pm and admission is €20. The event is restricted to those aged over 18.

Saturday, August 22nd: Folk, traditional and rock music

Roscommon five-piece Vinegar

Bill will perform from 10 pm on Saturday night.

The band is known for combining contemporary ballads with traditional Irish music.

They will be followed at midnight by Proud Mary and the City Limits Band, a Tina Turner tribute act celebrating the music and stage presence of the late Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Doors open at 9.30 pm and admission is €20. The event is restricted to those aged over 18.

Sunday, August 23rd: Family Fun Day

Sunday’s programme will feature an afternoon and evening of fam-

ily entertainment, food, music and community activities.

The gates will open at 4 pm, with a barbecue running from 4 pm until 6 pm.

Danny Arnold will also perform between 4 pm and 6 pm, delivering a varied set of classic rock anthems and contemporary hits.

Admission to the Family Fun Day is €10, with children aged under 16 admitted free of charge.

Qween to close the festival

Queen tribute act Qween will bring the festival to a close on Sunday night.

The band will take to the stage at 10 pm with a two-hour show featuring songs including ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Radio Ga Ga’ and ‘Somebody to Love’.

Doors open at 9.30 pm and admission is €20. The event is restricted to those aged over 18.

Activities throughout the weekend

Five Star Amusements, an ice cream van and a catering van will operate throughout the festival weekend.

A village treasure hunt will leave Athleague Community Centre at 1 pm on Saturday, August 22nd. At 3 pm that afternoon, author and historian Paul Connolly will give a heritage talk entitled The Castles and Big Houses of the Athleague Area in the community centre.

A children’s toy tractor run will take place at the Circle of Life Park at 2 pm on Sunday, August 23rd. Only self-propelled vehicles can take part.

A festival spokesperson said: “The End of Summer Festival is all about bringing people together – locals, neighbours, families and friends.

“It is a chance to celebrate what makes Athleague so special: music, hospitality, heritage and a great community spirit. We cannot wait to welcome everyone to join in the fun.”

Whether attending for the live music, family entertainment or local heritage, organisers say the 2026 Athleague End of Summer Festival promises a weekend to remember.

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SPCA) will be holding Church gate collections at the following churches over the weekend of August 1st and 2nd. Collections will be held on both Saturday, August 1st, and Sunday, August 2nd, at St Mary’s Church in Moore. Collections will also take place on Sunday, August 2nd, at Our Lady of The Rosary Church in Cloonfad (both Masses), the Church of Christ The Good Shepherd in Four Roads (Tisara), and St Ronan’s Church in Taughmaconnell.

Roscommon SPCA is run by a team of dedicated volunteers, with all money donated going directly to animal welfare in the county. For more, see roscommonspca.ie.

Countdown to Galway Summer Rally

East Galway and Ballinasloe are gearing up for a major economic and tourism boost on Sunday, August 23rd, as the Bluebird Care Galway Summer Rally looks set to hit its maximum 150-car entry limit. The event has drawn a massive international field, attracting crews from every corner of Ireland, the UK, Canada, the USA, and as far away as Australia. Headquartered at the Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe, the rally is drawing drivers, co-drivers, and service crews from across the globe alongside Ireland’s top domestic competitors.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Mayo end a 75-year football famine!

Our columnist Frank Brandon discusses Mayo’s historic All-Ireland win, the ensuing homecoming celebrations in Castlebar, local sport, the negative effects of the recent heatwave, and more

It’s Monday morning as I write, and I have to admit that I am still buzzing after Mayo’s great win in the All-Ireland football final yesterday.

No matter what county you come from (except maybe Kerry), you couldn’t help but be moved by the extraordinary scenes in Croke Park, as Mayo ended a 75year wait for Sam Maguire – a wait that had seen the county suffer heartbreak after heartbreak in their efforts to bring home the iconic trophy.

As the hooter blew (or whatever the hooter does) to signal the end of the game, the sight of so many Mayo supporters crying and blessing themselves at the excitement and relief of it all was just fantastic. And in fairness to Kerry, even their supporters stayed around until the trophy was presented to the Mayo captain Jack Coyne.

Sometimes the commentary of South American presenters can be off the wall when their team scores a goal, but the Midwest Radio commentary on the final couple of minutes must rank up there with anything I have ever heard! If you haven’t heard it yet, you will find it on the old Twitter (or X as it’s now known).

The speech by the Mayo captain was simply brilliant; he remembered previous players, managements, and supporters who had died without ever seeing Sam come to Mayo, and it was such a thoughtful few words. It made the whole occasion even more special.

Now I am no expert on footballing matters – although I told anyone who would listen to me (very few) last week that there was no way Mayo could lose – and as I woke up early this morning, I thought back to my own

very short and highly inglorious inter-county career. I will admit that thinking back on it didn’t take me very long, as my career lasted about a total of six months, but I still remember something our then-manager, the great Sean Young, said to us when I was called into the county panel in 1974/75.

He told us forwards that if we weren’t able to put the ball over the bar from 40 to 50 yards, we shouldn’t be there. I thought of those words when I heard Aidan O’Shea being interviewed yesterday; he said that Andy Moran told his team to keep shooting, and more or less added what harm if the kick went wide?

A few years ago a friend of mine was involved with a county team, and he told me that the stats man was nearly the most important person on the management team. If a forward had three failed attempts to score a point, he would get the crooked finger and be hauled off – which of course led to players being so afraid of failure that they refused to take the shot at all. Back a few years ago, we all saw games where forwards had a clear shot at goal but they kept on passing it back and recycling the ball.

I know there were more packed defences then, but fair play to Andy Moran for encouraging his lads to shoot if the shot was on. While there was an odd one dropped into the goalie’s hands on Sunday, the good thing was that they kept going for the scores and in fact outscored Kerry in the two-pointers by four to one.

Anyway, after the game, which I watched at home with my son Paul, I headed up to Mikeen’s to join in the post-match discussion. It was nice to see that in a packed pub, which was mainly full of Galway and Roscommon people (although we had at least one Mayo woman, Karen), everyone was delighted with the Connacht team’s win. It’s funny how there is so much rivalry between teams when they play against each other, but generally Connacht people will support whatever team makes it to an All-Ireland final.

It’s now midday on Monday, and I am trying to decide if I’ll go to Castlebar to take part in the almost unprecedented homecoming… watch this space.

Celebrating the return of Sam

I said watch this space, and I am mad at myself – because I didn’t actually go to Castlebar.

However, two of my children, Paul and Lisa, along with two of my grandchildren, Riley and Hayley, were in MacHale Park for all the festivities. I made every excuse not to go – that I’m too old, that the crowd would be too big, and that I’d have to walk too far – but the truth is that after watching the whole thing on Mayo. ie, I really regret staying at home.

The crowd was enormous and the entertainment was pretty good, but I would say the atmosphere was electric, and that’s the bit I’m sorry I missed. We all knew that this homecoming would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it certainly was.

However, I am writing this as Paul and Lisa and her crew are just leaving MacHale Park, so I’ll wait and see how long it takes for them to get home… if it’s a very long time I might not be so sad that I didn’t go!

Anyway, congrats to Mayo on a famous win – and a well deserved one too. But I’m sure that Roscommon and Galway are already rubbing their hands at the thought of meeting the All-Ireland champions in the league, and particularly in the championship next year!

Too hot to handle

Wildfires are becoming a serious threat to property and forestry all over the world. Even here in Ireland, where we have one of the most agreeable climates on the planet, events in Tipperary and Wicklow have shown how dangerous and unpredictable these fires can be.

On Slievenamon, in Tipperary, a large wildfire has been burning now for more than a week, and almost 1800 acres of the landscape and forestry have been destroyed. Over in Glencree, in Wicklow, a “ground-zero apocalypse” has taken place on the uplands at the Featherbeds and more than 700 ‘man hours’ have gone into fighting the blaze.

Obviously the recent very warm spell of weather has left woodlands and grassy areas highly susceptible to fire, and we are all warned to be very careful while out and about, and not to be using portable barbecues or even throwing away cigarette butts.

However, as bad as it is here, over in mainland Europe, it’s catastrophic.

As I write, the entire French city of Bordeaux may have to be evacuated. The fires, which the French Interior Minister has said have taken on a life of their own, are now only 15kms from the outskirts of the city – and its population of almost 300,000 people may have to be evacuated.

Up to now, all I knew of Bordeaux was that it was home to the wonderful Bordeaux Bègles rugby team –European Cup champions and one of the most exciting club teams anywhere. But now Bordeaux is famous for very different reasons.

Let’s hope the fires are brought under control before any more damage to landscape or property is done.

Sometimes we give out about our rainfall, but the people of Tipperary and Wicklow are now praying for some badly needed rain. In the month of July, how ironic is that?

And as if the fires in Tipperary weren’t bad enough, what about the lowlifes and thugs who targeted cars, vans, and jeeps belonging to firefighters who were tackling the blaze on Saturday night? And who stole a large number of personal items, as well as causing criminal damage to a number of vehicles?

I have to say that sometimes you’d wonder what type of a scumbag would do such a thing. It’s hard to believe that anyone would stoop so low.

finally…

After all the excitement of the men’s All-Ireland final, in local sport, the club championships start this weekend. Our (Creggs) footballers have a tough start in the Intermediate Championship with an away tie against Shannon Gaels in Croghan at 6 pm on Saturday evening.

Having lost our top scorer, Ronan Dowd, to Australia, it will be a tall order for our lads to come out with a win. So like John Kiely in Limerick, I am calling on all our supporters to hit for Croghan on Saturday evening and give the lads a bit of support! It definitely worked for Limerick, so let’s see you all in Croghan on Saturday evening!

Ballinlough native Eileen

Kelly appointed manager of ‘Portiuncula’

HSE West and North West has announced the appointment of Ballinlough native Eileen Kelly as Hospital Manager at Portiuncula University Hospital.

Eileen brings more than 25 years of healthcare experience to the position, having worked across a range of clinical, academic and senior management roles in the public and private health sectors.

Eileen graduated from University College Dublin with an honours Bachelor of Science degree in Radiography in 1999. She began her career as a radiographer and held a number of clinical positions before joining Galway University Hospitals as a Clinical Specialist Radiographer in 2007.

In 2014, she returned to University College Dublin as a lecturer in its School of Medicine, teaching undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. She rejoined Galway University Hospitals in 2016 as Radi-

Keadue, Co. Roscommon Summer School Continues to Friday 31st July. Festival Weekend: 1st to 3rd August.

10:00am Classes in Harp, Bodhrán, Tin Whistle, Set Dancing & Banjo.

2:00pm Classes in Button Accordion, Fiddle, Concertina, Flute, Guitar, Traditional Singing & Beginners Sean-Nós Dancing

3:30pm Advanced Sean-Nós Dancing

7:00pm Warm up music session in Kilronan Castle

8:30pm Harp Recital in Kilronan Castle

10:00pm Music

10:00am Classes in Harp, Bodhrán, Tin Whistle, Set Dancing & Banjo.

2:00pm Classes in Button Accordion, Fiddle, Concertina, Flute, Guitar, Traditional Singing & Beginners Sean-Nós Dancing

3:30pm Advanced Sean-Nós Dancing

6:00pm Music Session in the Harp & Shamrock

9:00pm Set Dancing Céili with The Piper’s Cross Céili Band.

10:00pm Music Session in the Harp & Shamrock

Friday 31st of July 2026

10:00am Classes in Harp, Bodhrán, Tin Whistle, Set Dancing & Banjo.

ography Services Manager.

Since moving from clinical practice into healthcare management in 2018, Eileen has held several senior regional leadership positions. These included working with the patient flow improvement project team and serving as Clinical Services Improvement Manager in the Office of the Chief Clinical Director for the former Saolta University Health Care Group.

She subsequently served as General Manager of the Women’s and Children’s Network for HSE West and North West. Most recently, she was General Manager for Maternity Services at Portiuncula University Hospital.

During her 18 months in that role, she supported the delivery and continuing development of maternity services at the hospital.

Commenting on her appointment, Eileen said: “I am honoured to take up the role of Hospital Manager at Portiuncula University Hospital.

“Having worked alongside the dedicated staff at PUH over the past 18 months, I have seen first-hand their commitment to delivering high-quality care to patients and their families.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across the hospital, our community partners and stakeholders to continue developing services, improving patient experiences and ensuring the best possible outcomes for the communities we serve.”

2:00pm Classes in Button Accordion, Fiddle, Concertina, Flute, Guitar, Traditional Singing & Beginners Sean-Nós Dancing

3:30pm Advanced Sean-Nós Dancing

7:00pm Fun Run/Walk. Registration at 6:30pm

7:00pm Try the Harp in Keadue National School (All Welcome)

9:00pm Concert - Mel Mercier’s Sonóir and Harp Showcase. The performance will feature all musicians both collectively and individually, showcasing a masterclass of talent. Niamh O’Brien (Harp), Mel Mercier (Percussion/ Composer).

Saturday 1st of August 2026

10:00am O’Carolan’s Trail - Walk with us in O’Carolan’s footsteps

10:30am Harp Competitions Commence

2:00pm Family Fun Day in Keadue Sports Field

2:30pm 15-18 & Senior Harp Competitions

9:00pm Drama - The Sand Park - Written and performed by Seamus O’Rourke (Book Now) The Sand Park is the sometimes-hilarious account of how James Anthony Lowry, a man in his mid-fifties came to terms with the death of his son, fifteen years ago and now more recently, his wife Rose. It’s a play about rural Irish life and the way we cope with the inevitable, about how life, death, humour, love and sadness all live in the same house together . and then a strange thing happens

Sunday 2nd of August 2026

11:30am Sean O’Riada Mass in Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Keadue

3:00pm Festival Parade

4:00pm Music & Song from the GigRig featuring Reel Craic with Tara Noone

9:00pm Concert in St Ronan’s Hall with Téada (Book Now) Téada, a band with a truely global reach, celebrates 25 years on the road in 2026. With renowned Irish traditional musicians Oisin Mac Diarmada (fiddle), Paul Flynn (accordian), Damien Stenson (flute), Seán Mc Elwain (guitar/bouzouki), Tristian Rosenstock (bodhrán), Samatha Harvey (piano/dance) and joined by singer Niamh Farrell.

Monday 3rd of August 2026

11:00am Wreath laying at O’Carolan’s grave

12:00pm Lecture in Kilronan Castle - Lecture by Professor Luke Gibbons “Harper Turlough O’Carolan as a cultural icon - the making of an international reputation” in Kilronan Castle

3:00pm Music, Song and Dance from the Heritage Park

4:00pm David James & Band - live music from Heritage Park, Free Street Event. David James

FarmingPeople

No new probationer Gardaí assigned to Roscommon

No newly attested probationer Garda has been directly assigned to a station in County Roscommon under the latest national allocation.

Commenting on the latest allocation, Senator Scahill said: “I am extremely disappointed that Roscommon has once again been left without a single additional Garda. This is now the third Garda attestation in 2026 where our county has received no new allocation. While communities across the country will benefit from increased Garda visibility and resources, Roscommon continues to be left behind.

“Our Gardaí continue to provide an outstanding service to communities across Roscommon despite significant

resource pressures. They are deeply committed, highly professional and go above and beyond every day to protect the people they serve. This is not a criticism of them; it is a call to ensure they receive the staffing levels and resources they need to continue doing that job effectively.”

A total of 206 probationer Gardaí have been distributed among divisions across the country following the attestation of Intake 254.

The Mayo-Longford-Roscommon Garda Division received one probationer, who has been allocated to Longford.

Elsewhere in the northwestern region, two probationers have been assigned to Galway, three to Donegal

and none to the Sligo-Leitrim division.

The Louth-Cavan-Monaghan division received 25 probationers, bringing the total allocation for the northwestern region to 31.

The largest regional allocation was made to the Dublin Metropolitan Region, which received 94 probationers. A further 56 were allocated to the eastern region and 25 to the southern region.

An Garda Síochána said the placement of the probationers could also enable consequential transfers to other divisions across the country.

However, the figures confirm that Roscommon has not received a direct station allocation from the latest intake.

Roscommon Pride returns with packed line-up of events

Roscommon Pride, the county’s annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, will return for its third year from August 17th to 23rd with a packed line-up of events.

The festival will kick off on Monday, August 17th with a discussion between LGBTQ+ authors Niamh Ní Mhaoilean and Chloe Michelle Howarth. This event will be hosted alongside the Bród Book Club in The Quad in Roscommon Town from 7 pm to 9 pm. Tuesday, August 18th will see a shoebedazzling workshop called ‘Bród my Brogues’ taking place, while a screenprinting workshop will be held on

Wednesday, August 19th. Both events will be held in The Quad from 7 pm to 9 pm.

On Thursday, August 20th at 8 pm, Roscommon Pride will present ‘Common Threads: An Irish and European Showcase’ in the Roscommon Arts Centre, with LGBTQ+ artists and performers taking to the stage for an evening of performance.

Pride weekend will kick off with an open mic night taking place in Rogue & Co Café at 7 pm on Friday, August 21st. This will be immediately followed by a rip-roaring round of Drag Bingo at 9 pm with drag queen

Minnie Buss in The Red Parrot. Saturday, August 22nd will start with a Drag Brunch in Gleeson’s at 11.30 am. Immediately afterwards, the LGBTQ+ community and allies will gather at The Quad at 2.30 pm for the Pride March, which is the heart of the festival and represents a vital moment for queer visibility in Roscommon.

The Pride March will run through Roscommon Town and end in Loughnaneane Park, where there will be an array of free, family-friendly performances at the Family Fun Day. Local stallholders will also be in the park selling arts and crafts, and there will be

food and coffee trucks on site too.

Saturday’s festivities will end with the Pride After Party in Rockford’s from 8 pm until late, where people will be treated to a truly iconic drag show from the acclaimed Athlone-based ‘House of Kwen’ drag house.

Roscommon Pride’s 2026 festival will close out on Sunday, August 23rd with a Ceremony of Love and Remembrance at 3 pm, which pays tribute to those who are no longer with us. The weekend will wrap up with karaoke in The Red Parrot at 6 pm.

Tickets for all events are available at www.roscommonpride.ie

Pride Committee responds to ‘Enoch Burke’ article

Dear Sir, Trans and non-binary people are just like everybody else – all they want is to live their lives fully and freely, without fear of discrimination. They are part of our communities and they deserve respect and dignity.

Roscommon Pride wants to reiterate this after an article was published in the Roscommon People (‘Enoch Burke may not be the perfect messenger – but Ireland should not ignore the warning’) which sought to strip trans and non-binary people of their humanity and to position them as a concept to be debated. Trans people are not a debate, they are human beings – and they deserve to be referred to by whatever pronouns or name they want.

Roscommon Pride represents and stands with the trans community of this county, and we will celebrate and champion our shared humanity at our third annual Pride festival this August. If you too believe in kindness and respect for others, we hope you’ll join us.

Yours faithfully,

The Roscommon Pride committee

Editor replies

I totally reject the assertion (for which no evidence was provided) that the referenced article published in the Roscommon People sought to ‘strip trans and non-binary people of their humanity’. It did not. This is an unfounded allegation.

The article in question was a perfectly reasonable, balanced opinion column on transgender/related issues.

It was published in keeping with the Roscommon People’s commitment to welcoming (and being open to publish) varying views.

As stated in the original article: ‘If education is being reshaped for the longterm, then the conversation cannot be guided by one worldview only. It cannot invite everyone into the room while treating some views as unacceptable before the discussion even begins’.

The Roscommon People is unequivocally committed to the principle of people living without fear of discrimination and to all people being treated with total dignity.

– Paul Healy, Editor, Roscommon People

Strokestown to host first Cabaret Festival

Strokestown’s first Cabaret Festival will take place next week, bringing three evenings of music and entertainment to the Percy French Hotel from Tuesday, August 4th, to Thursday, August 6th.

The festival will feature national and local performers across a wide range of genres, including country, traditional, folk, rock ’n’ roll and swing.

Organiser Eugene Murphy, who is marking one year of hosting live music in Strokestown, said it had long been his ambition to bring regular live entertainment to the town.

He also thanked the Percy French Hotel for its support since the project began last year.

The festival opens on Tuesday, August 4th, with Keith, Lorraine and Frankie McDonald, who have previously attracted large audiences to the venue. They will be joined by Shannonside Northern Sound presenter and singer Paul Carrington, entertainer

Gerry Keenan, Longford swing singer Owen Smith, and young Roscommon singer and guitarist Tara O’Connor.

Wednesday, August 5th, will be dedicated to traditional and folk music, with performances from Michael Banahan, Arigna singer Aoife Duignan and the Loughnenane Céilí Band.

The Siobhán Feeney School of Dancing and a number of other local performers will

also take to the stage.

The festival concludes on Thursday, August 6th, with showband star Dave Lawlor, Cavan singer Kevin Logue, Down country singer Mary Hoey and special guest Mags McGagh of Downda Road Radio.

A special accommodation offer is available at the Percy French Hotel, while several local B&Bs and other accommodation options are also available.

Visitors staying in the

area can explore attractions including the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, Sliabh Bawn, Rathcroghan and Elphin Windmill.

“I welcome all visitors to Strokestown and promise them a friendliness they will not receive anywhere else in Ireland,” Eugene said.

“I would also like to acknowledge the support of people throughout the region over the past 12 months.”

Kerrane is chair of new foster care group

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon-Galway Claire Kerrane has been appointed chair of a new cross-party Oireachtas group on foster care.

Deputy Kerrane assisted the Irish Foster Care Association in establishing the group, which held its first meeting recently. She said she was delighted to have been asked by the association and her Oireachtas colleagues to take on the role.

Deputy Kerrane has been a member of the cross-party group on family carers, established in association with Family Carers Ireland, for several years.

Deputy Kerrane previously hosted rep-

resentatives of the association and foster carers in Leinster House to provide them with an opportunity to speak about their experiences.

She has also prepared a policy paper proposing the introduction of a State pension for foster carers, which she intends to publish shortly.

“We need more foster carers. Where a child cannot be with their own family, the second best option is a foster family,” she said.

“I look forward to our next cross-party group meeting and to making progress for foster carers.”

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

Secret Box Theatre formed in Ballaghaderreen to stage Revolution by Joud Al Sulaiman

Secret Box Theatre was founded in May 2026 to stage Revolution by Joud Al Sulaiman in the Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival. The Secret Box Theatre is four theatre artists from Syria and Ireland who have come together to bring this story to an Irish audience for the first time. Revolution by Joud Al Sulaiman is based on true events experienced by the Syrian people during the rule of Hafez Al Assad and his son, Bashar al-Assad.

It tells the story of Karim and Israa, a young married couple from Homs who are displaced to Damascus after their home is destroyed. Karim and Israa live in constant fear: of the regime’s intelligence branch, the prospect of being flung into jail as political prisoners, and of the revolution and consequent civil war coming to their door.

The play depicts how many Syrian people balance their public lives and home lives, forced to support the government outside the home whilst privately opposing the regime and living in deep fear of their

political views being discovered.

The story is told in a satirical and comedic style. A dark farce, the play is both funny and tragic. The text is written by Joud Al Sulaiman, who also directs the show and features as Karim. Revolution was produced in Beirut in 2025, and this Irish premiere is its first international outing.

Revolution runs in the Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival from August 4th-6th at 5 pm daily, and audiences are invited to arrive at between 4 pm and 5 pm to enjoy some traditional Syrian desserts and coffee. The show is in the Abbeyfield ROC and this is the first such public production to take place in the centre.

NewsPeople

Creggs to mark Parnell anniversary with Avondale tour

Creggs will mark the 80th anniversary of the unveiling of the village’s Parnell Monument with a special tour to Avondale in County Wicklow on Saturday, August 8th.

The tour to the former home of Irish political leader Charles Stewart Parnell has been organised by Creggs Rural Development, with funding provided by the Heritage Office of Galway County Council.

A bus will leave Creggs at 9 am before travelling to Avondale, where participants will receive a tour of the historic house, forest park and treetop walk.

The chairperson of Creggs Rural Development encouraged local people to take part in what is expected to be a special celebration of the links between Creggs and Parnell.

Charles Stewart Parnell delivered his final public speech in Creggs in September 1891, shortly before travelling to England, where he died several days later.

A monument to Parnell was unveiled in the village in June 1946 to mark the centenary of his birth.

“Creggs continues to celebrate its links to the famous Irish nationalist leader and MP through heritage events such as this tour,” the chairperson said.

“We would also like to thank Galway County Council for providing funding for the event, which promises to be a great day out for all the family.”

Tickets for the tour are available from O’Roarke’s Spar in Creggs.

Planning permission refused for planned Golf Links Road housing development

Plans for a housing development on the Golf Links Road in Roscommon Town have been refused following an appeal to An Coimisiún Pleanála.

Reimas Developments had originally sought permission to demolish an existing two-storey house and construct 20 three-bedroom homes on the approximately three-acre site.

Roscommon County Council subsequently granted permission for a reduced development of 17 homes, comprising five single-storey houses, ten two-storey semi-detached houses and two two-storey terraced properties.

The council’s decision was appealed by two residents of the nearby Hyde Court estate, who raised concerns about the potential impact of the development on their area.

An Coimisiún Pleanála has now refused permission for the development. The Commission found that the proposed 17home scheme would provide a housing density significantly below the appropriate range for a site of this nature in a key town with a population of more than 5,000. The decision means the development cannot proceed in its approved form, although the applicant may submit a revised proposal for the site.

€20,000 Arts Council bursary awarded to Roscommon artist

Roscommon artist Jessamine O’Connor has been awarded a €20,000 English literature bursary through the latest round of the Arts Council’s bursary award scheme.

The local artist is among 258 recipients who will share a combined €4.3m in funding.

Awarded by the Arts Council on behalf of the State, the bursaries provide individual artists with grants of up to €20,000, giving them the time and resources to research, reflect on and further develop their artistic practice.

The awards span a wide range of disciplines and are intended to support the long-term development of artists while also benefiting audiences and the wider arts sector.

Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan said Ireland’s reputation as a “cultural powerhouse” depended on strong State support for artists.

“In providing over 250 artists from right across Ireland with the time and opportunity to develop their artistic practice, these awards recognise the intrinsic value of the arts and the benefits they bring to our society,” he said.

Director of the Arts Council Moling Ryan said the bursary scheme was central to the organisation’s support for the arts in Ireland.

“We recognise the necessity for artists to have the time and resources to make great art. These awards will support artists to further develop Ireland’s vibrant, creative culture,” he said.

Local young carer addresses UN Human Rights Council

Last month, 19-year-old Bridget Donohoe Dunne, from Kilteevan, County Roscommon, spoke at the United Nations HQ in Geneva, as part of a panel aiming to bring awareness of young carers on a global stage.

The invite to Switzerland was extended to Bridget, as well as Shannika Greene and Saoirse Hayden, after their successful hosting of the first National Young Carers Conference at UCD in early March of this year, an event which was attended by President Connoly.

On accepting the speaking position and travelling to Geneva, Bridget said, “Although I was

nervous, the lead-up to the event was very exciting. The people at the United Nations were very kind and were there to help us with whatever we needed.”

The talk occurred on Wednesday, June 24th, and acted as an official ‘side event’ to the 62nd session of the human rights council. The panel discussion was titled ‘Caring in the shadows – the urgency of enhancing the protection and empowerment of young carers’.

In attendance on the day was Professor Philip D. Jaffe: the vice chair for the rights of the child; Niall Muldoon: Ombudsman for Children in Ireland; H.E Hasmik

Tolmajian: permanent representative of Armenia; H.E Francisca E. Menendez Escobar: permanent representative of Mexico.

On giving her speech, Bridget said: “I spoke about the lack of support for young carers and their families, especially during illness. I spoke about my experiences as a young girl, and how when my mother became ill with cancer there were no supports in place for myself, my brother or her.

“I mentioned about the emotional burden and loneliness young carers experience and how a lot of us feel we are carrying the weight of the world on our own.”

Planning exemptions welcome but greater consistency needed – Scahill

New planning exemptions will make it easier for homeowners in County Roscommon to adapt and improve their properties, Senator Gareth Scahill has said.

The regulations, which came into effect on July 27th, expand the range of home improvements and developments that can be undertaken without planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Senator Scahill (Fine Gael) said the measures represented a practical reduction in unnecessary bureaucracy.

“These new planning exemptions are a welcome and practical step that will make life easier for many homeowners across Roscommon,” he said.

“Families should be able to adapt their homes

to meet changing needs without having to navigate unnecessary planning processes for relatively straightforward works.”

However, Senator Scahill said wider problems remained within the planning process, particularly in relation to requests for further information and the interpretation of wastewater treatment requirements and Environmental Protection Agency guidance.

He said homeowners, farmers, builders, designers and planning professionals had raised concerns about delays and inconsistency between different local authorities.

“Applicants deserve greater transparency around the validation and technical checklists being applied,” he said.

“If an application meets the required standards in one county, there should be consistency in how those same standards are interpreted across every local authority.

“People should have confidence that planning decisions are fair, predictable and based on consistent national guidance.”

Senator Scahill said strong environmental and public-health protections must remain in place, but applicants also required certainty.

“Clear guidance and consistent decision-making would reduce delays, lower costs for applicants and improve confidence in the planning process,” he said.

He also acknowledged Minister of State John Cummins’ role in progressing the new regulations.

Also speaking with Bridget was Shannika Greene, on the topic of housing and its impacts on young carers, and Saoirse Hayden, who spoke on the topic of carer harm, i.e. how some carers face abuse from those they look after. Reflecting on the event, Bridget said “I do think the event was a success. We received a lot of positive feedback from the people who came to watch.”

Bridget also hopes that the talk, and the subjects discussed, will help start new conversations on the lives of young carers – and generally have a positive impact overall.

Roscommon households furthest from key health services

Households in County Roscommon are located further from several essential health services than those in any other county in Ireland, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office.

The CSO’s Measuring Distance to Services in Ireland 2026 report found that the median distance from a Roscommon household to its nearest HSE emergency department was 44.4 kilometres.

This compares with a national median distance of 12.9 kilometres, meaning the typical distance recorded in Roscommon was more than three times the figure for the State as a whole.

Roscommon also had the longest median household distance to a GP, at 5.2 kilometres, compared with a national median of 1.2 kilometres.

The county recorded the longest median distance to a pharmacy as well, at 5.6 kilometres. The corresponding national figure was one kilometre.

A median distance means that half of households were located within the stated distance of the service, while the other half were further away.

Almost one in five Roscommon residents – 19.5 per cent – lived between ten and 20 kilometres from their nearest pharmacy, according to the CSO.

The figures also demonstrate the wider difference between urban and rural access to healthcare. Nationally, the median distance to an emergency department was four kilometres in cities but rose to 40 kilometres in areas classified as highly rural or remote.

The CSO said median figures were used because a smaller number of households located particularly far from services could disproportionately affect an average or mean measurement.

ALL-IRELAND LGFA INTERMEDIATE FINAL

Experienced Egan has sights set on title

Seamus Duke

There are very few more experienced team managers on the ladies football inter-county scene than Finbar Egan.

Having enjoyed a very successful stint with Clann na nGael in the 1990s, which included winning a Connacht club title in 1995, Finbar then went on to take charge of the Mayo senior ladies’ football team.

Under his guidance, Mayo contested five All-Ireland finals between 1999 and 2003, winning four of them.

In 2021, Finbar, who lives in Summerhill in South Roscommon, returned to Clann na nGael, helping the club win its first senior ladies’ football title in 24 years, breaking Kilbride’s dominance of the local club scene. He was appointed as the Roscommon manager in late 2024.

When he spoke to the Roscommon People at a media event last week, Finbar acknowledged there is a special atmosphere in the Roscommon camp since their semi-final win against Westmeath.

“There is a mighty buzz around the place alright but we are trying to keep a lid on everything because as long as we don’t go mad over these couple of weeks, we have a great chance of winning an All-Ireland title.

“We have to keep working on

the things that we have been working on all year so we will not be getting too high about it because there is a match there to be won now.”

It has been a season of ups and downs for Roscommon. Failure to gain promotion in the league was followed by a disastrous Connacht final defeat by Leitrim in Carrick-on-Shannon in early May. Since that dismal outing, the team have worked really hard to turn their fortunes around and now find themselves in an All-Ireland final.

“We lost a couple of matches in the league and we didn’t get promoted (as a result). We lost heavily in the Connacht final and that pushed us down a bit further but overall the season has been very positive and we have won more matches than we have lost.

“To get to this stage has taken a huge effort from the girls, the management team, and everyone involved, and we have got our just rewards I think.”

So what brought about the big turnaround after the 22-point defeat to Leitrim in the Connacht final?

“We did lots of things after that to be honest. When you are on the bottom the only way is up. We brought in Lloyd Kelly, he was with us before, and he started working with the defence. We brought in John Gilligan as well and he got more involved in the physical training aspect. It was a huge reality check for everyone, to be honest. We definitely pushed on from there.

“I want to mention another guy that’s working with us and that’s James Boyle, who does the stats. He does a great job. Marie Kelly, Aine Lennon, Joe Fallon, John O’Brien, Ella Killion and all the others involved have played their part too. We have 13 or 14 people there in the background and they are all very important for the group. But I always say no game is won on the sideline, it’s won out on the pitch.”

What is Finbar expecting from Roscommon’s opponents in the final?

“Fermanagh are a very good, very fit team. They beat us by four points in the championship last year (in Kiltoom) and we drew with them in the league earlier this year in Enniskillen. Everyone talks about Eimear Smyth (their star player) when they talk about Fermanagh, but they are far from a oneplayer team. They have several excellent players. There’s a couple of Bogue girls and a couple of Breen girls too, very good players.

“They have a very good inside

ALL-IRELAND LGFA INTERMEDIATE FINAL

forward line. But we will do our homework. We have improved in defence and we have pacy forwards too. We have a lot going for us and our midfield is going well. Ruth Cox and Abby Curran have been playing very well.

“In our attack, we have no real stand-out player. They can all make a contribution and we have several players who can come in from the bench and do a job as well.”

Coping with the big occasion is where the management will have a big role.

“Agreed… we are not going to Croke Park to play the occasion, we are playing a game on a big pitch. The only difference is that there will be more noise from the crowd in the stands but we will go up and take a look at Croke Park before the final.

“We will be focussing on the small things like getting the first ball, making that first pass, and working hard all through. We have been in a lot of tough, close games this year. Against Cavan, we lost… we were level twice

in the second half and we had a few costly turnovers in that game. Against Down, the scores were level and we went down and got the scores that won the match for us. We have shown good resilience and that’s what we want to see on Sunday in the final.”

Egan does not subscribe to the theory that if a team doesn’t win a final in a given year, there is every prospect they will ‘finish the job’ the following season.

“I don’t agree with that at all, that’s a load of rubbish.

This is the most competitive intermediate league that you could imagine. Wicklow are gone down but Antrim have come up and they are really competitive. Tipperary are in it next year too. Westmeath have been up and down as well. They are not in the final. Leitrim are out – and look at Cavan. They won Division Two and the Ulster title, but they are not in this final either. They will all be there next year. So look, we are in this final and we are in it to win it. The chance may not come again.

Flashback to past glory

2005 All-Ireland LGFA IFC final Roscommon 1-12 Down 1-5

The last time Roscommon won the All-Ireland Ladies Football Intermediate Championship was in 2005. The final was played in Mullingar.

Roscommon played well in the opening half and went in 0-6 to 1-1 ahead at the break, the goal coming from Down forward Michaela Downey in the 18th minute.

Down improved after halftime but Steffi Carty struck the decisive blow for Roscommon with a great goal with 10 minutes to go.

“It’s been a marvellous year for ladies football in the county but a win on Sunday would cap it all. The U-16s were magnificent, the minors have been brilliant too and we don’t want to let the

Roscommon: Eimear Walsh; Ursula Brooks, Laura Sharkey, Louise Tully; Olivia Keogh, Annette McGeeney (captain), Caroline Conway; Diane Dolan (0-1), Aisling Creighton; Lizzie Glennon, Natasha Beegan, Cathy Conway (0-2); Michelle Carey (0-2), Ann Marie Carley (0-2), Steffi Carty (1-4, 2 frees). Subs: Sarah Finnerty for Walshe (17), Sarah Sharkey for Glennon (41), Regina Mullaney for McCann (60), Feena Beirne for Keogh (60), Tara Taylor for Carey (60).

side down now. We want to go up there on Sunday and put in a big performance and if we do we will be in with a great chance” he concluded.

Roscommon’s quality and work rate can land All-Ireland crown

Fermanagh are formidable opponents, but rejuvenated Rossies have real chance of success

Seamus Duke

It’s 2001 since a Roscommon ladies football team played in Croke Park and it’s 21 years (2005) since the county won this title – but on Sunday, Finbar Egan’s team have a great opportunity to write their names in the history books when they take on Fermanagh in the AllIreland Intermediate final.

Before this championship campaign began, no one would have predicted this final pairing, but as the competition has gone on the fancied sides have fallen by the wayside, and now these two teams have a chance of glory on the biggest stage of all.

Roscommon come to the decider after an amazing reversal of fortunes. In early May they travelled to Carrickon-Shannon and were trounced by Leitrim in the Connacht final by 22 points. An All-Ireland final looked light years away that day.

But in fairness to all concerned they put their

weekend

heads down and worked hard and the improvement in their performances has been nothing short of miraculous.

A good display against Cavan – even if they lost by three points (0-16 to 2-7) in a game they should have won – was the catalyst. When Roscommon met Down in round two, they ground out an excellent 2-13 to 1-12 win.

It was perhaps written in the stars that Roscommon would be drawn against Leitrim in the All-Ireland quarter-finals. It was an excellent chance to banish the memories of that Connacht final mauling. It was probably Roscommon’s best performance of the campaign too. Even

though the margin was only four points in the end (2-12 to 2-8), Roscommon dominated the match, and Leitrim getting a few consolation scores at the end to narrow the gap.

Against a fancied Westmeath in the semi-final, Roscommon were excellent again, while having a little luck on their side as they prevailed by four points, 2-14 to 2-10. Make no mistake, this Roscommon team are where they are on merit.

Fermanagh are more experienced on the big stage than Roscommon. This year there were defeated by Leitrim, while they have beaten Wexford, Cavan, and then Down (by two points) in the

semi-final.

The Erne County have a number of excellent players with their dominant figure being centre half-forward Eimear Smyth, who is a phenomenal talent. Against Down in the All-Ireland semi-final she scored 1-10 out of 1-11, with 1-7 coming from play. She scored 2-5 against Clare in the quarter-final and is one of the best players not only in the Intermediate Championship, but in the country.

Other players to watch out for on the Fermanagh team are defenders Catriona Breen and Cadhla Cara Bogue, midfielder Joanne Doonan, and attackers Sinead Barrett and Niamh McManus. Fermanagh have put up some big scores in this campaign and Roscommon will have to be very tight defensively on Sunday.

This Roscommon team have been improving from one match to the next and if that can continue on Sunday they have a great chance. Helena Cummins has been a revelation once again

ALL-IRELAND LGFA INTERMEDIATE

this year and her experience and calmness under pressure is such an advantage to Roscommon between the posts.

The defence had been transformed since that Leitrim drubbing and Aine Connaughton, Megan McKeon, and Aine McGrath haven been excellent in recent games in the full-back line.

Niamh Feeney, Ruth Cox and Ellen Thompson have been outstanding in the half-back line and they will be hoping to get a chance to join in attack on Sunday.

It’s likely that Ellen Irwin and Abby Curran will line out at midfield and they have been improving as a partnership with every game. Up front, Saoirse Wynne is likely to be named in the half-forward line but I expect to see her back sweeping in front of the dangerous Eimear Smyth.

Kate Nolan and Aisling Feely have been playing really well and Boyle woman Feely is now back to her very best, which is great news for Roscommon. Laura Mannion is the heartbeat of the team and her return to the panel has been one of the reasons why Roscommon are in this final. Roise Lennon and Caoimhe Lennon will provide the goal threat and hopefully both will be on song. Roscommon have an impressive bench to call on. Semi-final hero Lauren Shanagher, Rachel Fitzmaurice, Niamh Watson and Grainne Lohan are all excellent

performers who are ready to come in and do a job.

So what’s the likely outcome?

There are a number of other factors outside the actual match that will play a part. Probably the biggest one will be the ability of players to cope with the occasion. That’s where management will have a big role to play. At the end of the day it’s just another football match to be won. Players must try to keep the outside noise at bay during the game. Roscommon have a team manager that has been there, done that and has several t-shirts. Finbar Egan will be a massive asset to Roscommon

on Sunday. His experience will be vital.

The team have scored two goals in all their championship games so far this year. If they get two more on Sunday, they will be more than halfway there.

If Roscommon can curtail Eimear Smyth and get the likes of Aisling Feely, Kate Nolan, Laura Mannion and the Lennons on the ball, they can get the scores to win it. I think they will do that too.

A historic day beckons in Croke Park.

Prediction: Roscommon.

Best wishes to Galway and Roscommon Ladies in the finals

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Seamus Duke

Helena Cummins is one of the most experienced players on the Roscommon team. She has also been one of their best – indeed inspirational – performers in the run-up to this final.

Indeed the Michael Glaveys goalkeeper has been one of the driving forces behind the team for many years and has been exceptional again this year, very much leading by example.

Helena agrees that it has been a rollercoaster year for the team.

“Things were not looking great for us after the Connacht final. They are looking much better as we stand here today and now we are really looking forward to this All-Ireland final.

“But the belief has always been in the group… that we could do well. What happened in that Connacht final is not what we are about. It was a bad day at the office but we knew that we could do far better. We just put our heads down and trusted each other and here we are today.”

Helena says that the mix of younger and older more experienced players is proving ideal as the year has gone on.

“We have plenty of youth, and they get on well with the more experienced players. It’s always nice to see young players coming through. We get on very

Helena hails role of young players

well together as a group and that’s very important too.”

How does she feel about leading her team out on to Croke Park on Sunday?

“It is a privilege for me. Every young girl who plays football wants to play in Croke Park, but to lead out the team is fantastic and it is something that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“We are not going up just to be part of the occasion. We are going up to bring back a title to Roscommon that hasn’t come to the county since 2005. Make no mistake, we are going to Croke Park to win that final.

“Fermanagh will not be an easy side to beat. We have played them a few times. We played them last year and they came out on top and we drew with them this year in the league. They have some very good players. It will not be easy, but it’s a battle that we are ready for.”

While the players have been enjoying the exciting pre-match build-up, they are focussed on the task ahead of them.

“The build-up is great, the support we have got from everyone is fantastic, the text messages, the good wishes from people is great – and great for ladies football in the county – but we need to go and win it now and give something back to the county as well” she concluded.

Helena Cummins… on the spot!

Interview: Liam Dunne & Karla Browne

We recently interviewed Roscommon Intermediate Ladies captain Helena Cummins ahead of their AllIreland final against Fermanagh this Sunday…

Q1: Is there anywhere in particular you like to visit during the summer in Roscommon?

Errit Lake.

Q 2: What activities do you like to do during the summer? Football, soccer, meeting friends for days out. Going on holidays.

Q 3: What books have you been reading/any series or fi lms you’ve been watching lately?

Currently watching Bones on Disney Plus.

Q 4: Do you have any exciting plans coming up for the rest of the summer?

Club football, couple of weddings, and might try fit a holiday in somewhere!

Q.5: With the upcoming fi nal against Fermanagh, how have you and the rest of the team been preparing, and how prepared do you feel?

The preparation is going well. There’s a lot of hard work being put in at training by both players and management. It’s a matter of us concentrating on the areas where we can improve along with ensuring we continue the good work we have been doing. Everyone is prepared and really looking forward to the game.

Q.6: Do you feel that the appreciation of your achievement so far is on par with the appreciation a men’s team would receive if in the same position?

I feel women’s football in general doesn’t get the appreciation it deserves comparing to men’s. There are ongoing positive changes to ladies football and with the increased support through social media and sponsorships, etc you would like to hope that sooner rather then later ladies football will receive the appreciation it truly deserves. In saying that it is important to note that the level of support from around the county for us (the intermediates), the U-16s and minor ladies has been huge and is greatly appreciated.

Back in the groove

Laura enjoying return to Rossies

Seamus Duke

Observers can point to many factors that have contributed to Roscommon’s great run to the All-Ireland final this year, but many would argue that the return to the panel of Roscommon’s most experienced and accomplished footballer, Laura Mannion, has been one of the main reasons for the revival in the team’s fortunes.

The St Ciaran’s woman has been a driving force and inspiration since she returned to the panel after Roscommon’s

One of Roscommon’s attacking stars over the past few years has been Caoimhe Lennon. The Clann na nGael ace is one of the players that Roscommon will be hoping can get the match-winning scores on Sunday.

She is enjoying the build-up to the biggest game of their lives. “There is a fantastic mood in the camp. Preparing for an AllIreland final is what you dream about from the time you start playing so we are all enjoying it.”

Caoimhe looked back on a year of ups and downs for her team.

Connacht final defeat to Leitrim in May.

Laura said that having seen the Connacht final she knew that the Roscommon team had far more to give than they had shown that day.

“As you know, I wasn’t involved with the team that day, but having been around the team for a number of years in the past few years I knew that there was far more in them.

That’s one of the reasons why I decided to come back in. I knew that there was a lot more in this group.

“The girls were not winning at the time and I wouldn’t have walked back in if I didn’t think

“Looking back on the year the turning point for us was that day in Carrick against Leitrim. Finbar (Egan) said after that game you can let it make you or break you. We moved on and pushed on after that. We didn’t want that game to define our year.

“A heavy defeat like that takes a few days to get over but the week after that we all put our heads down and we got back to work. We never looked too far ahead. We just wanted to get things right and to get set up right defensively.

But as the year went on, the matches against Cavan and Down, then beating Leitrim and on to Westmeath, the belief among the squad really kicked in then. We always had

Jonathan I am happy I did go back. I missed the bond with the girls and I never realised how much I had missed it until I came back in. I am so thankful to them that they did welcome me back in and here we are now preparing for Croke Park.

“We haven’t had an easy run in this championship. We had to beat Leitrim and we had to beat Westmeath along the way too – and those two teams were tipped to get to Croke Park. No one tipped Roscommon and indeed no one tipped Fermanagh either.

“That’s the beauty of sport –here are two teams in a final that no one rated. But we knew all along that we had the players. The only thing we were missing over the past few years was belief, and there is plenty of belief in that Roscommon panel now.”

After a long career, Laura is really looking forward to playing in an All-Ireland final in Croke Park.

that they had potential. I knew they had that potential, they have had it for the past few years, and I am delighted that they are reaching it now.”

Laura, now married (to Jonathan Mannion) and with a son (Eanna), said that the decision to return to the Roscommon panel was not an easy one, given the circumstances.

“It was a big decision alright but I rely a lot on my mother and mother-in-law to look after Eanna when I am training because Jonathan trains the same nights as I do. It’s a huge commitment, but after the first few sessions back I said to

hope and the results have built the momentum.”

So how is Caoimhe looking at Fermanagh as opposition?

“Look, any team that gets to an All-Ireland final will be good. We have played them a few times and they have some really good players. It will be a really tough day out for us but we are looking forward to the challenge.”

What about the prospect of playing in Croke Park? “I can’t wait for it to be honest, walking into Croke Park and being part of the day. But we have to manage the occasion and the emotions involved too and that will be very important. Hopefully in attack we will be able to get a few scores on the day to help the team, that’s the most important thing” she concluded.

“That’s why we play this game. As a young girl growing up the only thing you want to do is play in Croke Park. We are delighted to get a chance to play there now but it will be no good if we don’t win. So we are putting our heads down in preparation and we will do everything we can to make sure that this dream can come true.

“Fermanagh are a good team. They have an advantage because they have played in Croke Park a couple of times in recent years and it is our first time. That’s an advantage for them… but look, we will go and give it everything and hopefully that will get us across the line.”

‘Croke Park pitch is not our destination, steps of Hogan Stand is our destination’

Seamus Duke

ne of Roscommon’s most consistent players in 2026 has been Boyle attacker Aisling Feely. She burst on to the scene a few years ago after some brilliant displays for her club. Then Aisling endured almost two years of injury which ruled her out of the game for a long period. Now she’s back fully fit this year and enjoying her football with club and county.

Aisling says that while the build-up to the All-Ireland final is great, there is a ‘down side’ to it as well. “It’s been a great two weeks in the build-up but it is the last two weeks that we will all be together as a group which is kind of sad too! We have been training well and training hard and confidence is high, so we can’t complain.”

Aisling agrees that it has been a mixed year for the team. “We had a lot of tough days at the start of the year but that built resilience among the group and it has toughened our mentality. It helped us grind out results in the games against Leitrim, Down and Westmeath and to be honest we always knew we had it in us to progress. All we needed was a bit of belief. When you have a few wins under your belt you feel that you can continue on and we won’t fear Fermanagh on Sunday.”

After suffering so many injuries, was Aisling ever afraid that she wouldn’t return to the game?

“After I did my ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) there was a lot of rehab and there were times when I wondered would I ever get back but this year I have had no problems. Thankfully I am fully fi t now and that’s all I can ask for. I am very lucky to be part of a great group of girls so it’s great to be back.”

Is there any danger that the occasion might pass a player by on the day?

“There is only one girl on our panel, Rachel Fitzmaurice, who has played in Croke Park and that was camogie. But we have always said we will play the game and not the occasion. The Croke Park pitch is not our destination, the steps of the Hogan Stand (for the cup presentation) is our destination. We still have a game to play and win.

“I don’t have any fears of the occasion getting to our players. I think we put that notion to bed in the semifinal against Westmeath. Our dreams were hanging by a thread that day and we got over the line. We have another game to play on Sunday – simple as that. I think we will be ready.”

Asked about Fermanagh, Aisling alluded to recent close games between the teams – a draw, and a narrow win for the Ulster side – while quickly adding

that Roscommon were missing quite a few regulars in that drawn game. Her respect for Sunday’s opponents is clear.

“Eimear Smyth is one of the best players in the country, never mind (in) Fermanagh. But our defence has been super-solid and they have kept players like Muireann Devaney (Leitrim) and Sarah Dillon (Westmeath) quiet this year so I have full faith in them on

Sunday.

“It’s our job up front to turn our possession into scores. Fermanagh will be tough and physical but we will be ready for them. I think it will be a good match. We will not take anything for granted. We are hoping to save our best performance of the year for the final on Sunday” she concluded.

21.55 acres of roadside lands new to the market at Sheehy Meares Team Earley

Keith McLoughlin of Sheehy Meares Team

Earley is pleased to bring to the market this exceptional parcel of approximately 21.55 acres of high-quality roadside agricultural lands, located in a renowned farming area at Ballyconboy, Ballinagare, Castlerea, County Roscommon.

This sale of these lands will take place by online auction at 2 pm on Friday, August 28th

Comprised in folio numbers RN4353 and RN4354, the lands are offered for sale in one block and are of excellent quality throughout. The property is well fenced and also benefits from water servicing the lands. In addition, there is a stone building shed with handling facilities, making the holding particularly well suited to livestock farming operations. The lands are ideally suited to a range of farming enterprises, including beef, sheep, or mixed farming operations.

Prospective purchasers must register for the online auction with Sheehy Meares, and lodge the required bidding deposit no later than Tuesday, August 25th. Payment instructions will be provided during registration. Before bidding, purchasers should familiarise themselves with the online bidding process and satisfy themselves in relation to the contract for sale, title, boundaries, measurements, services, access, planning, rights of way, and all other matters affecting the property.

The auctioneer will assume that each bidder is bidding in their own name. Anyone intending to purchase in another person’s name, jointly with another person, or through a company or other legal entity, must notify Sheehy Meares before the auction.

By registering, bidders will be deemed to have accepted the auction terms and conditions, and authorised Sheehy Meares, as agents for the vendor, to sign the completed contract for sale on their behalf if successful.

The successful bidder’s deposit will become non-refundable once the property is sold and a binding contract is entered into. The contractual deposit will be 10% of the purchase price. Any shortfall between the bidding deposit and the contractual deposit must be paid within one business day following the auction. Deposits paid by unsuccessful bidders will be refunded in full.

All marked photographs, maps, site outlines, boundaries, dimensions, and overlays are for illustrative purposes only and may not be to scale. Purchasers should rely on the relevant land registry records, and on maps, drawings, and surveys prepared or verified by suitably qualified professionals.

Legal: Liam Staunton & Co. Solicitors, 11 Sea Road, Galway City (phone 091 587070, or fax 091 587071).

For further information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Sheehy Meares Team Earley (Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon) on 090 6626579, or contact auctioneer Keith McLoughlin directly on 086 0848590.

Renovation opportunity at Ballincurry

Pat Hughes Auctioneers and Valuers are offering for sale a detached residence on a circa 0.9 acres site at Ballincurry, Kilrooskey, County Roscommon (F42E085).

Situated on an elevated circa 0.9acre site in a pleasant rural setting, the property at Ballincurry, Kilrooskey, County Roscommon comprises a three-bedroomed, two-storey detached residence in need of renovation.

Accommodation includes a kitchen/dining room, sitting room, three

bedrooms and a bathroom. There is also a shed located to the side of the house. The property may qualify for grant assistance, subject to the relevant eligibility criteria.

For further information or to arrange a viewing, contact Hughes & Company on 090 662 7003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

The solicitor with carriage of sale is Mr Conleth Harlow, Conleth Harlow & Company Solicitors, St Alban’s Place, The Square, Roscommon. Telephone 090 662 5939.

Two two-bedroomed Abbey Street apartments for sale with Pat Hughes

Pat Hughes Auctioneers and Valuers are offering for sale two apartments at No 16 Abbey Street, Roscommon. The property is laid out into two twobedroomed apartments, with a small yard to the rear. This sale would make an ideal investment opportunity for the buyer. Offers in the region of €250,000 are being sought.

For further details or to make an appointment to view, contact Pat Hughes Auctioneers and Valuers on 090 6627003, or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Buying or selling?

Anyone considering buying or selling a property is invited to contact Pat Hughes for free, professional advice. Contact Pat Hughes Auctioneers and Valuers on 090 6627003, or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY THE CASTLE NIGHT CLUB, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON F45 XR70

BUILDING PREMISES ONLY – OFFERS AFTER €100,000

BUILDING PREMISES WITH 7 DAY LICENCE – OFFERS AFTER €150,000

PRELIMINARY NOTICE OF FORTHCOMING ON LINE AUCTION

FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST 2026 AT 2P.M. 21.5 ACRES APPROX OF ROADSIDE LANDS LOCATED AT BALLYCONBOY, BALLINAGARE, CO. ROSCOMMON

43.53 ACRES LOCATED AT LISSALWAY, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

SIGNIFICENT DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL ON APPROX 0.261 OF AN ACRE FINAL OFFERS INVITED RESIDENTIAL ROADSIDE FARM CONTAINING APPROX

42.14 acres approx of quality roadside agricultural land. CURRENT OFFER: €360,000 Derelict residence standing on 1.39 acres approx. CURRENT OFFER: €121,000

Auctioneers & Valuers

NEW TO THE MARKET: FOR SALE

Circa 10.9 acres at

THE RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

The property comprises a top-quality land holding which extends to c. 10.90 acres (Folio: RN6634F). The lands are topographically level throughout and enclosed by mature hedges, with frontage onto the N60. The lands are currently in agricultural use, however are located just outside the Roscommon Town LAP Boundary, offering huge future development potential subject to necessary zoning and planning permissions. The property is situated on the southern side of the N60, Roscommon to Castlerea Road, approximately 2.5 kilometres from Roscommon Town Centre, between the Ballyboughan Industrial Park to the east and Roscommon Racecourse to the west. The immediate surrounding area provides a variety of residential, office, retail, industrial and amenity uses, representing a unique opportunity to capitalise on the continued expansion and growth of Roscommon Town.

For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

NEW TO THE MARKET: FOR SALE

Circa 81.5 acres at CLOONELLY,

STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

The holding comprises of a large, well-defined parcel of predominantly level grazing lands which have the benefit of a pen and crush. The lands are of good quality,bound by mature hedges along the northern boundary and with a local river running along the remaining boundaries. The lands also have the ruins of a stone residence situated in the Centre of the holding. The land is located approximately 7km from Strokestown and 14km to Roscommon town.

For further information contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

NEW TO THE MARKET: FOR SALE

Circa 3.13 acres at GALLOWSTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

The property comprises a top-quality land holding which extends to 3.13 acres all held under folio RN33097F. The lands are currently in agricultural use however adjoin The IDA Roscommon Business and Technology Park and Castle Manor Estate offering huge future development potential subject to necessary zoning and planning permissions. The lands are ideally located within walking distance from Roscommon town.

For further information contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

We are an independent estate agency conveniently located at Abbey Street, Roscommon Town.

Pat Hughes & Company prides itself on delivering a professional, efficient, highly personal service in all aspects of property transactions.

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 6 pm. Viewings can also be arranged outside these times by appointment.

Co.

for sale

“ Down The Hatch” Public House.

The property is a traditional style ground floor public bar serviced by public toilet facilities and a keg store to the rear extending to approximately 100 sqm (1,076 sq ft )

The bar has a traditional style fit out complemented by additional seating to the rear. The property is primarily accessed from Church Street with the benefit of rear access available via a shared alleyway. The property is well established in Roscommon Town and represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a traditional style licensed premises presented in turnkey condition. The property is conveniently located on Church Street, just off Main Street and within walking distance of local amenities.

Viewing is strictly by appointment only with a negotiator. For further details or to arrange an appointment please contact: Patrick Hughes, Pat Hughes & Co Ltd. Abbey Street, Roscommon. Ph. 09066 27003 E-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Padraig Burke, Sherry Fitzgerald P Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon Ph. 09066 27200 E-mail info@sfpburke.ie

FarmingPeople

Local farms to welcome visitors for nationwide open farm day

Two farms in the Roscommon area will open their gates to the public on Sunday, August 30th, as part of a nationwide event celebrating nature-friendly farming.

Knockvicar Alpaca Farm near Boyle and Mount Allen Farm near Carrick-on-Shannon are among 20 farms across 12 counties taking part in Farming for Nature’s Inside the Gate initiative.

The family-friendly event will give visitors an opportunity to explore working farms, meet farmers and learn how food production can work alongside wildlife, biodiversity, healthy soil and clean water.

Guided walks, demonstrations and discussions will offer an insight into the different farming systems and environmental practices being used on each participating farm

Alpaca farmer Andrew Chilton will host two events at Knockvicar Alpaca Farm, beginning at 10 am and 12 noon. Each session will accommodate up to 40 people.

Beef farmer Tommy Earley will host a morning event at Mount Allen Farm, with capacity for up to 30 visitors.

Andrew Chilton said the Knockvicar team was looking forward to welcoming the public.

“It is a great opportunity to open our farm gates and share the progressive, biodynamic and biodiversity farming practices we are so passionate about,” he said.

“We cannot wait to connect, inspire and grow together.”

Farming for Nature co-

founder Brigid Barry said the initiative was intended to create a stronger connection between the public and the farms producing their food.

Inside the Gate welcomes visitors of all ages. Adult tickets cost €5, while chil-

dren can attend free of charge. Places are limited and advance booking is recommended.

Tickets, individual farm details and event times are available at www.farmingfornature.ie/inside-the-gate.

Boost for local farmers and contractors – Scahill

952 farmers and contractors in County Roscommon are set to get a combined €423,985.52 in support through the Fuel Income Support Scheme, Fine Gael’s Senator Gareth Scahill has said. Senator Scahill commented: “This will go a long way for farmers and contractors across Roscommon who were hit hard by rising fuel costs in the spring. It’s a practical, targeted support that will make a real difference to households and farm budgets.”

The scheme was designed to support applicants for the fivemonth period March to July 2026.

Castlerea MART WATCH

There were over 240 lots presented for sale on Thursday, July 23rd, with prices and trade similar to the previous week.

The bullock ring noticed good demand for the stores on offer, with forward lots making up to €2900. The heifer ring witnessed €4.80 a kilo achieved for the quality stores, with €3500 obtained for the heavier lots. Dry cows made up to €3100, cows with calves at foot made up to €3540, springers made up to €2010, and young calves, with smaller numbers on offer, made up to €480.

The weanling rings noticed a very sharp trade, with bulls making up to €6.73 a kilo, while heifer weanlings hit €5.43 a kilo with strong export demand evident.

Bullocks, sample prices: Ch 430kgs €2110, Lm 420kgs €2050, Ch 500kgs €2400, Lm 520kgs €2350, Lm 575kgs €2530, Ch 615kgs €2540, AA 665kgs €2900, AA 715kgs €2660, and AA 670kgs €2650.

Heifers, sample prices: Ch 395kgs €1870, Lm 405kgs €1780, Lm 330kgs €1640, Ch 370kgs €1660, Lm 440kgs €1890, Lm 875kgs €3500, Lm 715kgs €3030, AA 655kgs €2440, and Lm 580kgs €2360.

Dry cows, sample prices: AA 860kgs €3100, Ch 820kgs €2870, SA 820kgs €2870, AU 700kgs €2410, Ch 705kgs €2360, Fr 410kgs

€1000, and HEX 675kgs €2070.

Weanling bulls, sample prices: Lm 270kgs €1750, Ch 245kgs €1350, Ch 380kgs €2560, Ch 390kgs €2460, Ch 340kgs €2120, Lm 320kgs €2070, and Ch 280kgs €1570. Weanling heifers, sample prices: Ch 275kgs €1460, LM 240kgs €1040, AA 280kgs €1220, BBx 375kgs €1980, BBx 300kgs €1630, Lm 300kgs €1500, AA 330kgs €1400, and Lm 325kgs €1510.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursdays with the weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings on offer. Sales commence at 11 am. A number of special shows and sales are also upcoming. On Thursday, September 17th, there will be a show and sale of continental weanlings. On Monday, September 21st, there will be a show and sale of continental bullocks. On Thursday, September 24th, there will be both a continental heifer show and sale, and a Belgian blue weanling show and sale. On Monday, September 28th, there will be an Aberdeen angus bullock show and sale. And on Thursday, October 1st, there will be an Aberdeen angus heifer show and sale. Bookings for these show and sales will be taken from 9 am on Tuesday, August 4th.

Classifieds

& HYPNOTHERAPY

& Trusted Since

Are 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

bottom up • Chimney cowls and crow guards tted Telephone: 087 2798704

to all makes & models (LED Lights, Brakes, Re-Wiring, etc.) Call TrailerFix on 086 4041875 Rooskey, Co. Roscommon www.trailerfix.ie

&

Certi ed Arborists

Tree Surgery

Dangerous Tree Removal

Wood Chipping

Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped

ALL TYPES OF ROOF REPAIRS

• All leaks, gutters, ridge pointing and valleys of homes

• Cleaning and painting roofs

• Painting of Roofs, Haybarns and Sheds

• 10% discount with this advertisement.

• Fully insured and

Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member. Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165 www.parklaw treeservices.com

We buy any

VANS, TRUCKS, JEEPS

All types wanted. End of life certs can be provided. Also scrap metal Recovery Service Tel: 087 0944027

WELLNESS

We

AREAS WE COVER: • Gardening • Landscaping • Carpentry • Patios • Fencing/ Post & Rail/ Laminate Floors • Power Washing • Concreting FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON

Golf Links Road, Roscommon town F42YX65 (behind Curtain Centre) (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed By Appointment Only –Dylan Byrne DIP CHFP Tel: 089 2551716 or Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP Tel: 087 2982214

WINDOWS AND DOORS HANLEY WINDOWS AND DOORS LTD

S.E.A.I. APPROVED

• Full Retrofit Service

• Composite, PVC, Patio, French Doors

• PVC Windows in a wide range of styles & colours.

• Replacement Hinges, Handles, Locks, Restrictors, Double & Trible Glazed Units

• All Repairs and Service Work Carried Out

Contact Pat: 086 600 2721 or Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

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

or FULL-TIME

required at both Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle and Ardcarne Garden Centre, Roscommon Town

We are seeking experienced, enthusiastic and friendly Garden Centre Sales Assistants with a passion for plants & growing. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate horticultural professional with strong retail experience and good communication skills to deliver exceptional customer service and work as part of a reliable team. Responsibilities will include merchandising, general stock maintenance and advising customers on all aspects of gardening.

A horticultural quali cation and a forklift licence is desirable but not essential. Basic computer skills will be bene cial. The positions are part-time or full-time over 7 days which includes weekend work and bank holidays.

VACANCY: PART-TIME WEBSHOP PACKER

required for Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle

We have a vacancy for a customer focused Webshop Packer due to the growth of our online sales.

The Webshop Packer is responsible for accurately picking, packing and preparing customer orders for dispatch or collection. The role requires excellent attention to detail, the ability to work e ciently in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to ensuring every customer receives their order in perfect condition. Good communication and IT skills a must and a passion for plants & plant care is also desirable. Flexible working hours across 7 days.

Please submit your CV & a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role, including preferred Garden Centre (Boyle or Roscommon Town) and the role you are applying for to: Mary Frances Dwyer, Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

Email: purchases@ardcarne.ie

Closing date for applications is 7th August 2026

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a 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.

Maths Grinds

Location & Schedule

• Venue: The Quad Youth Club, Roscommon Town

• Days: Tuesday [LCHL] and Thursday [JCHL] evenings

• Duration: LCHL [2 hours] & JCHL [90 mins] per class

• Start Dates: 6.00pm, Tue 01 Sep [LCHL] & 6.00pm Thu 03 Sep [JCHL]

Don’t let maths stress you out this academic year. Instead, enjoy targeted support to build con dence, eliminate anxiety, and maximize your CAO points. Book your place today

Contact: Kevin McStay on 087 997 4003 or email: kevinmcstaymaths@gmail.com

MALONEY

Noel and Dolores Racecourse Road, Roscommon Town, Roscommon.

Noel

(10th Anniversary)

Ten years have slipped by, yet not a day passes without thoughts of you. Your love still surrounds us, your memories still comfort us, and your place remains forever in our hearts.

Always remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass for Noel and Dolores will be held on Friday, 31st July at 11am in The Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Birthday Remembrance O’CONNOR

Brian Ashbrook Avenue, Ballyforan 4th August

Very special people come into your life only once.

Just your presence when you walked into a room made everyone smile and happy.

A silly joke that made them laugh so much.

A hug to make me feel loved and safe.

You were always a shining light wherever you went. Those memories will never fade away.

You’ll always be my shining light.

Your loving wife Lorelle.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (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. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. C.S.

BOYLE

Brendan Keenagh, Athleague. (2nd Anniversary)

FARRELL

William (Billy) Roxboro, Roscommon. (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear brother Billy who died on 29th July 2015

You will always be remembered by your loving brother John. Remembering Billy on this his 11th Anniversary. Masses o ered.

FINNERAN

Ellen (Nell) Coolfree, Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 31st July 2019 (7th Anniversary)

Beautiful memories Silently kept Of someone we love And will never forget Sadly missed but never forgotten by your loving family.

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IS TUESDAYS AT 2.00 pm

You were so very special and had the nicest ways, you did so very much in life and never asked for praise. Remembering you is easy, we do it every day, but losing you is the heartache, that never goes away. You had a smile for everyone, you had a heart of gold, you left the sweetest memories, the world could ever hold. Life goes on that’s true, but it’s not the same without you.

Always remembered by his wife Eleanor, son Brendan, daughter-in-law Edel and boys, Siobhan and Pete and boys.

Brendan’s 2nd Anniversary Mind Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 10am on Sunday, 2nd August.

GIBBONS

Pauline (née Saul) Ballincurry, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon.

In loving memory of Pauline who died 30th July, 2025 (1st Anniversary)

A year has passed since you slipped away. Yet your presence lingers in every quite moment; in every memory held close and in every heart you have touched. May the winds of Heaven whisper softly your name. May you Rest Peacefully in Gods loving care. Loved beyond words; missed beyond measure. Until we meet again.

A wonderful Mother and Grandmother. Missed every day by your loving family.

Pauline’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 1st August 2026 in St Marys Church, Ballagh at 7.30pm.

GALVIN

Kathleen (née Geraghty)

Cloonkeen, Taughmaconnell, Roscommon / Athleague, Roscommon. Who passed away on 6th August, 2025

The Family of the late Kathleen Galvin would like to sincerely thank all those who sympathised with us on our recent bereavement. To those who sent Mass Cards, online condolences, people who visited, and who attended the Removal and Funeral Mass to o er sympathy and support.

We wish to thanks the management and sta at St. Brendan’s Community Nursing Home, Ballinasloe for the kindness, care and the great support they gave to Kathleen in the many years she stayed there. Their professionalism and dedication were greatly appreciated and will always be remembered.

To Kathleen’s carers, we would like to thank each and every one of you for the care and support you provided Kathleen throughout the years. We would also like to thank the Doctors and sta at Marina House Medical Centre, Ballinasloe, with special thanks to Dr. Jennings for the help, support and great care they gave to Kathleen.

We wish to express our sincere appreciation to Donnie Hamrock for his guidance throughout the Funeral Arrangements. His attention to detail and support were a great comfort to our family. We also wish to thank Henry Hamrock who provided the beautiful singing and music during the Funeral Mass. We also thank the Athlone Springs Hotel for the beautiful meal they provided after the Funeral.

Thank you to Fr. Sean Neylon for his prayers, support and for celebrating the Funeral Mass. Our thanks also to the Gravediggers for their help and kindness at this sad time.

Finally, a special word of thanks to our extended family, neighbours and friends for their support and kindness given to us. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation.

The Holy Sacri ce of the Mass has been o ered for all your intentions.

Kathleen’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Ronan’s Church, Taughmaconnell on Sunday, 9th August 2026 at 11am.

KELLY

Josephine (née Killilea) Pound Road, Ballygar, Galway. Died 6th August, 2025

As we lovingly remember Josephine on her rst Anniversary, we, her family wish to express our deep gratitude to all those who supported Josie and us throughout her illness and bereavement.

We are deeply grateful to our extended family, wonderful neighbours and friends for their kindness and support.

Deepest gratitude to the Doctors, Hospice Nurses, Public Health Nurses, Homehelp, Priests and Undertaker for their exceptional care and compassion.

Josie’s First Anniversary Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 31st July at 7.30pm.

www.brianmuraystone.com

As we treasure the memory of Tom on his rst anniversary, his wife Anya, children Tom, Adrian, MaryClaire, Robert, daughter’s-in-law Geraldine and Anne Marie, son-in-law Matt, grandchildren Elliott, Carla, Louis, Tommy Jr, Jenny and Lorcan, his colleagues and sta at the Abbey, and extended families wish to acknowledge the many expressions of love, kindness and support shown to us by family, friends and neighbours during Tom’s long illness and most particularly during our sad bereavement.

Sincere thanks to those who expressed condolences, wrote letters, cards and messages and for sharing the many stories recounting the sharp wit that came so easily to him.

Heartful thanks to those who attended Tom’s Removal and Mass in such large numbers to celebrate his life, especially those who travelled long distances.

Enduring thanks to Dr Brendan Crosbie GP., Castle Street Surgery, the doctors, nurses and sta at Roscommon, Mullingar and Sligo University Hospitals for their care during Tom’s long illness. A very special thank you to the management and sta of Drumderrig Nursing Home Boyle who extended to Tom exceptional care, kindness and dignity during his nal illness.

The family will forever be grateful to the Western Alzheimers Society for their unstinting guidance and support, and to Jackie, his carer whom he adored. The guard of honour from the Abbey to the Church by the sta of the Abbey and onwards to the graveyard, joined by the members of the Gol ng Union of Ireland and members of Roscommon Golf Club was much appreciated.

To Fr. Sean Beirne for prayers at the funeral home. Fr Ray Milton PP who celebrated Mass assisted by Canon Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Gus O’Reilly, and Fr. Shay Casey, many thanks. Finally, the family would like to acknowledge the professionalism of Smyth’s Funeral Directors and sincerely thank Pat and Gillian for their expert assistance in arranging Tom’s Funeral.

Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation.

Of those so close beside me, which are you? God bless the ground! I shall walk softly there, And learn by going where I have to go.

MULLANEY Rochelle

Castle Manor, Roscommon Town, Roscommon and Four-Mile-House, Roscommon

On the second Anniversary of Rochelle Mullaney’s passing, we pause to remember someone whose warmth, laughter, and unwavering love left a lasting imprint on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Rochelle’s spirit – gentle yet strong – continues to guide us, even as her absence remains deeply felt.

A devoted daughter and sister, cherished friend, and kind soul, Rochelle embraced life with compassion and grace. Her legacy lives on in every act of kindness she inspired, every story told in her memory, and every heart still holding her close.

In Her Memory

Two years have passed, yet still you stay, In hearts that miss you every day.

Though gone from sight, you shine anew, In love that binds us close to you.

We speak your name with steady grace, And find your smile in every place. Your light lives on, a gentle flame, Forever dear, forever the same.

Lovingly remembered every day by her parents Tommie and Patricia, her sister Vanessa, brother David, sister-in-law Jade, and niece Riadh.

2nd Anniversary Mass will take place in the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Derrane, Roscommon at 7pm on Saturday, 1st of August.

No matter how life changes No matter what we do

In loving memory of our sister

MULLANEY Rochelle

Rathconor, Four-Mile-House, Roscommon. Second Anniversary occurred on 27th July 2026

I often sit and think about the time that has passed by and of the happiness and joy that was shared by you and I.

I think of all the laughter, the smiles and all the fun. Before I even know it, my tears have once again begun. For although it brings me comfort to walk down memory lane. it reminds me how without you, life has never been the same.

Forever loved and always missed by your partner, Michael.

Rochelle’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 1st of August at 7pm in the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Derrane, Roscommon.

GALLAGHER

Johnny

THANKSGIVINGS

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for 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 favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. A.M.

NOVENA TO ST. CLARE

Ask St. Clare for three favours, one for business, two impossible and nine Hail Marys for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena. Say ‘May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glori ed now and forever, throughout the whole world. Amen’. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. Prayer must be published. A.M.

Coolmeen House, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon. Who passed away on the 27th June 2026

We, the family of the late Johnny Gallagher, would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported us following our sad loss.

We are deeply grateful to all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial; to those who travelled long distances; sent Mass cards, sympathy cards, letters, online condolences and messages; brought food; called to our home; and kept us in their thoughts and prayers. Your kindness and support have been a great comfort to us.

A special word of thanks to Canon Eugene McLoughlin for celebrating such a meaningful Funeral Mass and for his kindness and support throughout the days surrounding Johnny’s Funeral. We also thank Fr Pravin, Fr Lanigan and Fr Breslin for concelebrating.

Our sincere thanks to the Fuerty Choir for the beautiful music, which made the Funeral Mass especially tting for Johnny. We also thank the Eucharistic Ministers, Nora and Myra for the lovely owers, and everyone who participated in the liturgy and helped make the Mass so memorable.

To our neighbours who lined the road as Johnny made his nal journey from Coolmeen, and to the Ploughing Association and Fuerty GAA for their guards of honour, thank you. These thoughtful gestures meant a great deal to our family and re ected the strong community Johnny was so proud to be part of.

We extend our sincere thanks to Pat, Gillian, Adam and John Smyth, Funeral Directors, for their professionalism, care and compassion shown to Johnny and to our family throughout this di cult time. We also thank the gravediggers for preparing Johnny’s nal resting place in Fuerty with such care and dignity.

Our family is especially grateful to the many healthcare professionals who cared for Johnny throughout his illness. We thank the doctors and sta of Roscommon University Hospital, Dr McLoughlin and the sta of Portiuncula Hospital, the Family Care Centre, and the Roscommon Ambulance Service for the care, kindness and dignity they showed him. A special thank you also to Caroline, Palliative Care Nurse, and to Ester, Johnny’s home help, whose kindness and companionship meant so much.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a sincere expression of our gratitude.

Johnny’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Assumption, Fuerty, on Saturday, 1st August at 12 noon.

The loss we feel is profound, but so too is our appreciation for the support, friendship and sense of community shown to us, and to Johnny, throughout his life.

HUGHES

(née Murphy)

Maureen Ballygar, Co. Galway (5th Anniversary) who died 1st August 2021. RIP.

If we could visit Heaven even for a day, maybe for a moment the pain would go away. We would wrap our arms around you, and whisper words so true. That living life without you is the hardest thing to do. No matter how we spend our days, No matter what we do. No morning dawns or evening falls, when we don’t think of you.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by her husband Jimmy, her daughters: Amanda, Michelle, Sharon and Anne, Sons in law, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Tohergar Church, Ballinamore Bridge on Sunday, 2nd of August at 9.30am. All are welcome.

CAUNEEN

Tadhg

Ballymore, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of Tadhg who passed away on the 30th of July, 2021 R.I.P

Time slips by and life goes on, but from our hearts you’re never gone. We think about you always, we talk about you too. We have so many memories, but we wish we still had you.

Loved and remembered always by your Uncle Michael, Maura, Michelle, Patrick and Alan. xx

No matter how life changes, no matter what we do. A special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

Fondly remembered by the Sweeney families.

FAMILY NOTICES

FITZPATRICK

(nee Mannion)

Jacinta

Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon

Who died on 31st July, 2023 (3rd Anniversary)

Words of Comfort

Feel no guilt in laughter

I know how much you care

Feel no sorrow in a smile

That I’m not there to share, but let the memories comfort you

A word someone may say

Will suddenly recapture

A time, an hour, a day

That brings me back so clearly

As though I was still here

And fills you with the feelings

That I am always near.

For if you keep those moments

We’ll never be apart

And I will live forever

Locked safe within your heart

Loved and sadly missed, Kevin, Eabha, Shane, your mother and father, Billy and Winnie Mannion, brothers Liam and Adrian, sisters Alicia and Avril, extended family, friends and colleagues.

Mass has been o ered.

PLANNING NOTICES

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Colin Glynn, wish to apply to Roscommon County Council for permission for development at Garrynagawna, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.

The development will consist of the construction of 01. revised dwelling house, previously granted under Planning Ref. PD/23/20. The proposed revisions include an increase in oor area, changes to elevations, including revised window and door opes (size, design and positioning), external nishes and front façade, along with the provision of a larger garage. The development will also include a wastewater treatment system, polishing lter, percolation area, site entrance, and all associated site development works.

A Natura impact statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the planning application. 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. 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: Colin Glynn

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Derrane Roxboro Pastoral Council Company Limited are applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission and Retention Permission for the following:

1. Planning permission for the construction of a rear extension to the existing Community Playschool to provide a new toilet facility, to be connected to the existing wastewater treatment system.

ROSCOMMON

COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Liam Moran & Saoirse Regan, intend to apply for permission for development at Derrygirraun, Cootehall, Co. Roscommon, F52 N903. The development will consist of: (a) removal of the existing roof from the bungalow, construction of a new oor deck, and construction of a new rst oor to form a 1.5-storey section of the existing dwelling; (b) construction of a single-storey extension, together with a front porch and new front door (with altered orientation); (c) construction of a carport canopy to the rear, (d) construction of a domestic garage/fuel store, (e) construction of a new site entrance, with the existing site entrance to be removed, together with all associated site works. The Planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ces of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Vincent Durkin (Agent). www.DurkinDesign.ie Architectural Designs Tel: 086 83 72 933

ROSCOMMON

COUNTY COUNCIL

Farnbeg, and Cloonrodoon townlands, Strokestown, County Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Sinead Barry, intend to apply for permission for development at Cleen, Knockvicar, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, F52 CD00. The development will consist of: (a) demolition of an existing derelict two-storey dwelling house and its replacement with a new single-storey dwelling house; (b) decommissioning of the existing septic tank and the installation of a new wastewater treatment system and tertiary treatment unit as per EPA CoP 2021; (c) construction of a domestic garage/fuel store; (d) construction of a revised and improved roadside entrance, together with new gate piers and wing walls; and all associated site development works.

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

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

Signed: Vincent Durkin (Agent).

www.DurkinDesign.ie

Architectural Designs

Tel: 086 83 72 933

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Further Information/Revised Plans

Revise Site Development Layout from that previously granted Planning Permission under Ref No 25/60145 as follows :Remove 17No Dwelling Units composed of 2 No Apartment Blocks containing 8No Unit within No’s 46 to 49 & 59 to 62 and 9No Terrace Houses within No’s 50 to 58.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

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

2. Retention permission for the existing covered area, the existing storage shed, and all associated site works at Derrane Playschool, Roxborough, Co. Roscommon, F42 RF76.

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

Signed:

Unit 6, Ballypheason House, Circular Road, Roscommon, F42 T384. Ph: 085 1756190 Mob: 085 1584081 E: james@jlce.ie & elaine@jlce.ie Web: www.jlce.ie Planning & Design Consulting Engineers

The Irish Heritage Trust intends to apply for permission for development of Strokestown Park House Farnbeg, and Cloonrodoon townlands, Strokestown, County Roscommon. The development will consist of Installation of a ground mounted Photovoltaic (PV) array of approximately 378m2 to deliver 85kW yield and associated below ground cabling into Strokestown House, and installation of inverters, on a concrete pad and all associated connections into the building. The proposed development is located within the Curtilage of Strokestown Park House, a Protected Structure RPS 2300141. 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(a) 5 weeks, or (b) 2 weeks, in the case of a planning application for small-scale solar energy equipment development or development that is the installation of a small-scale non-ground source heat pump, beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions and 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. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413)

Signed: Oisin Creagh

Design Forum Architects, 3 Ardeevin, St. Lukes, Cork T23 X9P1.

Email: osincreagh@designforum.ie Tel: 00 353 86 275 4929 Web: www.designforum.ie

ROSCOMMON

COUNTY COUNCIL

Finneran Farms intend to apply for retention of existing 5 bay slatted cattle shed on their lands at Corraree And Ballygatta, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon.

Include 17No Terrace Houses in 4No Blocks containing 1 Block of 4No x 3Bed, 2 Blocks with each containing 4No x 4 Bed & 1 Block of 5No x 2Bed Units, all contained within Units 46 to 62, and to include minor adjustments to the Site Services at Lus Na Greine, Monksland, Athlone.

Signi cant Further Information has been submitted to the Planning Authority and now refers to PD/19/348 & PD/21/455 rather than PD/25/60145, as previously advertised at Lus Na Greine, Monksland, Athlone.

Signi cant Further Information/Revised Plans has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed Development and is available for Inspection or Purchase at the O ces of the Authority during its public Opening Hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information or Revised Plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority, within the statutory time Limit. A Submission or Observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a Person or Body who has already made a Submission or Observation.

Signed: Patrick Donoghue

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Dean Kelly, intend to apply for planning permission for development at Cloonlaughnan, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of construction of a domestic garage and all associated works.

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

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

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: APS Consultant Engineers, Lackagh, Turloughmore, Co Galway. Tel: 091 737458 www.apsconsulting.ie

BOYLE

GOLFER OF THE YEAR: Current standings in the Order of Merit for Golfer of the Year were published recently, and a certain P Conroy of Forest View, Boyle was no doubt smiling. Pat is sitting pretty with 248 points with his nearest rival being Owen Garvin on 170 pts.

BANK HOLIDAY COMPETITION: We are planning for an Open Shambles competition to be played over the Bank Holiday Weekend. Further details to follow.

INTERCLUBS: Good luck to our Men’s Connacht Shield team who are playing this Friday in the first round of the competition.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

CAPTAIN’S WEEK: The club would like to wish our very hard-working Captain Frank Duffy the best of luck for his competitions this coming week.

It all starts on Wednesday (yesterday) with the Ladies Scramble. Thursday is for the Seniors. Gents play Friday and Saturday, with top qualifiers playing on Sunday with a 9-hole (weather dependent) play-off in the evening. This will be followed by a buffet at 8 pm with presentation at 9 pm, followed by music.

PATRICK MARTIN: Our club has a very special moment to celebrate this week. Carrick-on-Shannon member Patrick Martin is the 2026 U-18 Irish Order of Merit Champion. Congratulations Patrick. What an achievement – and so well deserved.

O.B.N. SERIES: If anyone else can remember a weekend when more people played Carrickon-Shannon Golf Club over a weekend, please let us know. Between the Gents Captain’s prize to the Ladies, three golf societies, a Jack O’Sullivan men’s interclub and another record-breaking OBN Series qualifier, the course was packed. The OBN Series is very grateful to the owner and management of the Landmark Hotel for becoming one of our qualifiers sponsors this year.

JACK O’SULLIVAN TEAM: Our Jack O’Sullivan team played Co Sligo with the result being 2.5 to 1.5 in favour of Co Sligo. The team was as follows. Team Captain: Liam Bruen (Away: Dylan Beirne and John Coffey), Niall Keaney and Damien Quigley. Home: Paul Roche and Callum McGirl, Charlie Boyle and Brendan Boyle. The club would like to thank captain and team for their effort.

LADIES RESULTS: Ladies, thank you to all who played in the Scramble. Overall winners were: Carmel Stritch, Martina Sweeney and Teresa Oates (30 nett). 2nd (on countback): Mary O’Rourke, Jenny Bruen and Nova Fariss (31 nett); 3rd: Gabrielle Madsen, Kathleen Martin and Anne Guckian (31 nett). Well done ladies. Thanks to all who played in the Captain’s Prize to Ladies. It was another weekend of fabulous golf and record low scores. Congratulations to the winners. Overall winner was Marion Dolan (nett 60); 2nd: Mary Egan (nett 68).

Wednesday’s scramble gives the rest of us a chance of a Captain’s Prize to ladies. We have rest days on Saturday and Sunday, and will then play the Ardcarne Garden Centre Scramble on Monday, August 3rd.

SENIORS: Overall winner was Gerry Fitzgerald with 43 pts. Cat. 1: Sean McMonagle (36 pts); Cat. 2: Kevin O’Rourke (35 pts); Cat. 3: Francie Foley (36 pts).

HOLE-IN-ONE: Congrats to very popular lady member Mary who had a hole-in-one on the 13th last week.

CASTLEREA

SPONSORED COMPETITIONS: Results of the Silke’s Bar men’s 18-hole competition, played over July 19th and 20th, are as follows: Des Glynn was the overall winner. Runner-up: Gerry McLoughlin; Cat. 1: Daryl Kelly; Cat. 2: Rory Hawkshaw.

Short putts

(News

Result of the Ray Joyce Groundworks ladies 18-hole competition, played over July 19th to 21st. Rose Callaghan was winner of the competition; Cat. 1: Maura Kelly; Cat. 2: Ann Breslin.

Results of the ladies 9-hole competition sponsored by Mace, played on July 21st. Overall winner was Marie Baggott. Cat. 1: Maura Kelly; Cat. 2: Catriona Newman. Congratulations to the winners and sincere thanks to our competition sponsors.

PRESENTATION EVENING: A busy presentation evening took place in the clubhouse on Friday, July 24th. Thank you to all competition sponsors who attended. The wonderful prizes and support from sponsors are hugely appreciated.

OPEN COMPETITION: Castlerea Golf Club is delighted to be part of this year’s Castlerea Rose Festival, with 18-hole and 9-hole singles Stableford open competitions running throughout the August bank holiday weekend (July 31st-August 3rd).

Open to both members and visitors, it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a great day on the course. Book via BRS or phone 087 127 8066.

LOTTO RESULTS: In the latest Castlerea Golf Club Lotto draw, winners were Myles and Deirdre Hawkshaw, Mary O’Connell, Jimmy Mannion, Annette Cregg and Breege Hester. Each receive €100. Congratulations to the winners. Thank you to all who support the lotto.

ROSCOMMON

LADIES: In the Ladies Summer Scramble sponsored by Nuala Hughes, overall winners were Sine Lennon, Nicole Dowd and Siobhan Beattie with 63 nett. 2nd: Yvonne Waldron, Patricia O’Gara, Rosemary O’Brien (66 nett); 3rd: Kay Condon, Sue Kane, Carmel Walker (67 nett).

MEN: Weekly competition kindly sponsored by Waldron’s Family Meats. Overall winner was Brian O’Connor with 41 pts. Cat. 1: Michael Armshaw (41pts); Cat. 2: Ken Maher (39 pts); Cat. 3: Anthony Mahony (40 pts); Gross: Richie Evans (36 pts).

Open Friday sponsored by GoTo Finance. Overall winner: Matthew Rabatin (45 pts); 2nd: Adam Shams (41 pts); 3rd: Brian Feely (40 pts).

JUNIOR BOYS: Overall winner was Matthew Healy with 37 pts.

SENIOR MEN: The Captain’s Prize winner was Sham Byrne with 36 pts. Cat. 1: Padraig Dervin (35 pts); Cat. 2: Padraig Walshe (34 pts); Cat. 3: Michael Tierney (33 pts); Cat. 4: JT Finn (34 pts); Deuces: Sham Byrne, Charlie Brennan, Michael Tierney, Tom Farrell.

SENIOR WOMEN: Overall winner was Jane Hunt with 27 pts. 2nd: Marie Keane (27 pts); 3rd: Pat Pierce (24 pts); 4th: Rosemary O’Brien (24 pts); 5th: Bernie Maher (24 pts).

MEN’S CAPTAIN’S PRIZE: The Men’s Captain (Padraic Cuddy) event takes place this week (on Saturday and Sunday). There will be a timesheet located in the men’s locker room. Please enter before 5.30 pm on Thursday evening, July 30th. Draw will be on BRS.

Presentation of prizes will take place on Sunday evening at approximately 7 pm. Watch the club WhatsApp for further details.

OLIVIA COSTELLO: This week Olivia plays in the Irish Women’s Close Championships at Enniscrone. We wish her the best of luck.

THOMAS HIGGINS: There was heartbreak for Thomas Higgins in the quarter-finals of the South of Ireland Championships when he was defeated by Ben Gratzl (Germany) on the 18th hole.

MARY McKENNA CUP: Wishing our Mary McKenna Team every success as they take on Loughrea in the Connacht semi-final on this Friday, July 31st at 3 pm.

Terrific Tremane  set down marker

The most impressive of last weekend’s winners in the Kepak SHC (Round 3) were Tremane, who defeated Oran by 4-14 to 1-16 in Rockfield.

It was an entertaining game all through. Tremane had Peter Kellehan to thank for a ‘man of the match’ display that saw him score 2-7 for his side.

Evan Murray was on target with an early goal for Tremane. Paddy Fallon was deadly accurate for the home side from the placed ball. Murray’s second goal saw Tremane lead by 2-8 to 0-11 at half-time.

Tremane won this match in the period just after halftime, Peter Kellehan striking his first goal in the 34th minute. Five minutes later the same player’s long-range free went all the way to the net to give his side a 10-point lead. Paddy Fallon replied with a goal from a free, but Tremane had done enough.

Four Roads got back on the winning trail with a comfortable 0-22 to 0-14 win against Athleague in Ballyforan. It was a low-key affair and Four Roads always looked sharper up front. The sides were well matched in the opening half at the end of which Four Roads led by 0-11 to 0-9.

The scores were level twice early in the second half, but Four Roads gradually took over. Rory Coyle was outstanding and Conor Morris (0-11) was on song from frees as the champions pulled away.

In the remaining game, Pádraig Pearses defeated Roscommon Gaels by 19 points at Ballyforan (2-20 to 1-4) in what was a very one-sided match. The town side performed reasonably well in the first half and an excellent goal from Richie Walsh helped them into a respectable position at the break.

The winners had goals in the opening period from Michael Kelly and Daniel Staunton and by the half-way mark they led 2-7 to 1-3. The Gaels only managed one point in the second half as a dominant Pearses pulled away with a succession of fine scores.

Concannon conquers yet again!

DARTS: The Hollywood Bar Summer Darts League continued last weekend with the sixth of eight nights of Round Robin darts, in a battle for cup and shield spots among a field of 45 players.

David Concannon’s dominance continued, with yet another win for the in-form star. In addition to winning yet another round, David had the highest finish, with a maximum checkout of 170 thrilling all present. He also had finishes of 122 and 118, while Kieran McCormack had a 109 checkout and John Morris a 108.

In the final, David prevailed 3-2 over Mark Finneran in a close encounter. Earlier, David had accounted for Mark Concannon (3-0), Noel Beirne (3-0) and James Morris, also 3-0.

On the other side of the draw, Mark Finneran defeated Mick Kilroe 3-2, John Morris (3-1) and Aaron Killane (3-0). The standard of darts in the final was excellent, with a number of 100s, and indeed a maximum 180 from Finneran. In the decisive fifth leg, Finneran started best – scores of 120 and 180 featuring – but Concannon is simply unstoppable at the moment. He recorded scores of 100, 100, 121 and a 122 on his way to a 15-dart leg – and victory on the night.

Fearless Mayo banish famine (and the curse)

All-Ireland SFC final  Mayo 1-20 Kerry 1-17

< PAUL HEALY

Ravenous Mayo dispensed with a 75-year famine, the curse, the weight of history, lurking ghosts of heartbreaking near-misses throughout the decades – and a formidable Kerry team – to write one of Irish sporting history’s greatest stories last Sunday. It is no exaggeration to say that life will never be the same again for Mayo people. Any Mayo person anywhere in the world who is under the age of 74 has never known what it’s like for their county to be All-Ireland Senior Football champions – until now. Just about every Mayo person alive will carry the memory and the emotion of last Sunday to their last day on this earth. Nothing can take this from them now. It is done. It is the most emotional possible final chapter to a rollercoaster story that has stretched over 75 years… thrilling, teasing, but ultimately tormenting. Not any more. The torment is over. The word ‘seismic’ barely does justice to the scale of what has just happened.

That Mayo should end their 75-year wait during a season of transition – one that was accompanied by no credible expectation of a reunion with ‘Sam’ – and do so against football’s aristocrats, makes it all the better.

No pundit gave Mayo a chance before last Sunday’s All-Ireland final. There was respectful, diplomatic talk of what might just happen if Mayo had a flawless day, Kerry faltered, and the Connacht men were in the unlikely position of being within striking distance going into the last 10/15 minutes. But the swell of public opinion was clear: Kerry would win their 40th title, Mayo would learn from the experience and continue to build, and life would go on as normal. After 23 minutes or so – a third of the match – Mayo appeared to be drifting yet again towards their bountiful reservoir of hard luck stories. You could sense the collective dismay descending on Mayo supporters in Croke Park (and TV viewers) when the majestic David Clifford drove a dagger into their hearts. Skipping goalward near the endline, the High King of Gaelic football nonchalantly bypassed the Mayo goalkeeper before firing home a Kerry goal.

Punch-drunk, drifting six and

seven points behind, facing artists who need no second invitation to display their range of gifts, Mayo were staring into their own red and green coated boulevard of broken dreams. Collapse, secure a gallant defeat, or believe and trust, believe and trust, believe and trust – those were the options facing Mayo. Jack Carney’s timely twopointer maintained a degree of hope. Ryan O’Donoghue added another, all this while Kerry were uncharacteristically missing chances. Mayo were hanging in. There was life in the ‘be in contention with 10/15 minutes to go’ theory. Soon, the rhythm of the game was visibly changing. Kerry lacked potency, and Mayo – staying calm, trusting themselves – stayed in touch. Better than that, they were within a point of the defending champions at half-time, bounding into the Croke Park dressing room with belief and adrena-

line coursing through them.

The second half was thrilling, suspenseful. Assumptions that Kerry would take control were soon seen to be misplaced. Mayo sensed their destiny. A textbook ‘high press’ totally unsettled Kerry. Game on. With a heroic display of relentless tackling, Ryan O’Donoghue began to pickpocket the aristocrats. He had time to go all Messiesque too, his sensational break up the right wing setting Darragh Beirne up for the goal that shook the stadium. Now every Mayo supporter had to believe – if they dared.

For Kerry, sudden doubt. This Mayo was not going to succumb. Instead, they went four and five ahead, testing the pre-match script – the marginally edited script of the past 75 years – down to its last comma. Mayo saw the winning post, which is when the trauma usually arrives. When the Connacht team hit the crossbar with six minutes to go, and Kerry then closed the

gap, you wondered if that nearmiss might be the latest entry in the macabre ‘If only’ file that travels with Mayo. Kerry had late chances for two-pointers; if either had gone over, extra-time loomed, and with it the ominous prospect of more heartbreak for Gaelic football’s wandering (and wondering) minstrels.

Not this time. From one of those late Kerry salvage bids, Mayo broke, and with classic Mayo abandon raced up the pitch with the hopes and dreams of their people shadowing them… frantic, fearless, terrifying, this intersection of trepidation and about-to-be released emotion on a scale never witnessed before. High in the stands, as this final play moved towards its destiny, Stephen Grealis and Martin Carney of Midwest Radio carried the 75-year famine to its resting place with a fluency, mayhem and emotional intensity that perfectly captured this moment of moments. Kobe McDonald, having a marvellous

second half, laid the point on for Tommy Conroy. It was only a three-point gap now, but it felt like the great release; it felt like Mayo had sealed history, and drained the life from Kerry’s gallant effort. Seconds later, it was over. It was all over. The final. The famine. The wait. The 75 years. The pain. Somewhere in the mix, the curse took a permanent back seat too. Croke Park erupted. A county broke down in tears. Emotion, pride, disbelief. It was only the beginning of the release. The beginning of the celebrations. It was the end of the agony. It’s over. Mayo are All-Ireland champions, and this is one of Ireland’s greatest sporting stories.

Many, many times over the years, they thought it was all over. It is now.

Teams & scorers

Mayo: Jack Livingstone; Jack Coyne, Donnacha McHugh, Eoin McGreal; Sam Callinan (0-1), David McBrien (0-1),

Enda Hession; Bob Tuohy, Jack Carney (0-4; 2 2pt); Diarmuid O’Connor, Paul Towey, Jordan Flynn (0-1); Darragh Beirne (13; 2fs), Ryan O’Donoghue (0-5; 2 2pt, 1f), Kobe McDonald (0-3; 1 ‘45). Subs: Tommy Conroy (02) for Towey (24), Mattie Ruane for Tuohy (53), Rory Brickenden for McGreal (53), Conor Loftus for O’Connor (58), Paddy Durcan for Callinan (65). Kerry: Shane Murphy; Dylan Casey (0-1), Jason Foley, Paul Murphy; Graham O’Sullivan (0-1), Mike Breen, Gavin White; Mark O’Shea, Seán O’Brien; Joe O’Connor (0-1), Seán O’Shea (0-3), Tom O’Sullivan (0-1); Paudie Clifford (0-3; 1 ’45), David Clifford (1-6; 1 2pt), Dylan Geaney. Subs: Evan Looney for Casey (28-30), Keith Evans (01) for T O’Sullivan (HT), Tomas Kennedy for Geaney (51), Brian Ó Beaglaíoch for White (59), Evan

SportsPeople

GAA REWIND / FAST-FORWARD

Ryan’s Messi moment

A good-natured narrative pushed on social media after Sunday’s thrilling final – by regular Gaelic football fans and also by people in England who had viewed the action on BBC/online – was that the game was far more entertaining than the previous weekend’s World Cup final. Indeed.

And speaking of such comparisons, let it be said that Ryan O’Donoghue’s mazy run in the build-up to Darragh Beirne’s 39thminute goal was right out of the Lionel Messi playbook!

Worthy tribute to John O’Mahony

The late John O’Mahony was a gentleman – and an outstanding GAA figure. It was very touching to hear Mayo manager Andy Moran refer to ‘Johnno’ when he spoke to RTE moments after guiding his team to a historic first All-Ireland title in 75 years.

Showing composure and admirable capacity to live in the moment, Moran movingly revealed: “When you talk about the psychology, I’d be lying if I said at 69 minutes there I didn’t say a little prayer to Johnno (John O’Mahony). Johnno’s team is here, it’s 25 years. My mentor, my friend, he tried twice at us.

“And when 69 minutes came up, I looked up, we have a little friend called Aidan Drake who passed away last year – and Johnno – and I have to say I said a little one.

I said ‘Johnno if I need you it’s now’ and he came up with the goods.”

Noel has his say!

On X, Noel Gallagher of Oasis startled fans by tweeting (apparently he has barely tweeted in years). His out-ofthe blue Sunday evening tweet?

‘FINALLY! UP MAYO!!’

Some of the replies by excited but confused fans were priceless (we presume most Oasis fans beyond Ireland have no knowledge of the Gallagher brothers’ Mayo links, or for that matter of Mayo).

One tweeted: ‘What kinda UK English slang is this?’

Another said (of the Mayo reference): ‘The month of the topping?’ And another: ‘Up hot sauce’.

Hundreds more respondents knew (or worked out) that

Noel was in fact referring to a historic sporting win by Mayo. One person suggested that Oasis should now do a concert in Knock; someone else cheekily asked if the band will be supporting The Saw Doctors at the Mayo All-Ireland winning homecoming!

Media Watch…

‘A funny thing happened today. Mayo won the AllIreland.

The House of Pain has closed its doors. It’s an historic relic now. Mayo people might even go visit it from time to time.

Those two own goals? Donie Vaughan’s red card? Early goal after early goal? Yeah, they still hurt, but they don’t hurt just as much anymore.

Jordan Flynn’s slap against the crossbar late on in Sunday’s 1-20 to 1-17 win over Kerry? Finally, the footballing Gods said ‘no, that’s enough now’.’

– Niall McCoy (RTE website)

Honourable mention…

Three Roscommon players got an ‘honourable mention’ when The Sunday Game panellists selected their Team of the Year (no Roscommon player was actually selected).

They were Conor Carroll, Darragh Heneghan and Diarmuid Murtagh (this is not to say that others weren’t also considered, which they presumably were!).

– PH

‘They’ve lifted the whole West of Ireland’

LIAM DUNNE and EMMA HEALY sought reaction from some Mayo natives living in County Roscommon…

Andy (The Hatch Bar, Ballaghaderreen)

‘Mayo did the county so proud, they’ve lifted the whole West of Ireland – not just Mayo – and everybody is just so proud of them.

Congratulations to everyone. And I have to say fair play to the Roscommon supporters for cheering them on as well’

Joanne (Durkin’s Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse, Ballaghaderreen)

‘Thank God the curse has been lifted! I was in Croke Park and the atmosphere was unbelievable. We came back here after the game, and everyone had of course been glued to it. It feels fantastic, just brilliant’

(As Joanne spoke to the Roscommon People, Andy Moran walked into Durkin’s Bar, and she understandably cut the call short to join the celebrations!)

Mary (Gleeson’s, Roscommon Town)

‘I’m originally from Charlestown. And I have been such a loyal supporter all my life… I had a prayer that if just once in my lifetime Mayo could get there, it would be magic.

Now that they’ve won, it’s just unbelievable – the elation, and the deep,

deep joy and pride in that team, and all of the teams before them – it’s absolutely beautiful, it’s fantastic. I was down last night (Monday) in Castlebar when they came back and the sight of it was just incredible. You’d be just so proud of Andy Moran and all of them, they did incredible.

I was always very proud to be from Mayo, and I am also very grateful to Roscommon for giving me a wonderful base to have a business and bring up my family, but I would always display the Mayo flag any time Mayo would play anybody’

Pat (Towey’s Spar and Top Oil, Ballaghaderreen)

‘It’s the relief and the ecstasy of finally having won it. Mayo came so close for so long, and now it has given everybody a huge lift – Mayo and Roscommon people alike. It’s everything you could want from a good news story. I grew up in a house in Mayo and remember people coming into our kitchen singing ‘Moonlight in Mayo’, while my father told stories about the county and the cup. We’ve had so much regret over the years, but that has all been put to bed now.

It’s a positive, wonderful story for everybody to enjoy, no matter who they are or what they do’

CHAMPIONSHIP WATCH 2026 With Seamus Duke

Fantastic win wraps up memorable year

Last Sunday evening I texted a number of my Mayo friends to congratulate them on their fantastic win in the All-Ireland final. I received replies from almost every one of them. One in particular caught my eye.

TJ Kilgallon, a great friend who I soldiered with in Sligo many, many moons ago and who would be considered one of Mayo’s greatest ever midfielders, sent the following simple response: ‘Thanks so much Seamus. Unbelievable. No words. I will die happy.’ That about sums it up.

Here in Roscommon, we have had a sometimes bitter rivalry with Mayo over the years, but I have to admit that like many others, as the game went on last Sunday I was hoping that Mayo would do it. The rivalry between our counties will always be there, but I wouldn’t begrudge them this success one little bit.

In a perverse way, the fact that Mayo have actually won Sam may be a huge help to us here in Roscommon – they have proven it can be done!

The heartache experienced by Mayo over the years has been well documented. I was at every one of those losing finals from 1989 onwards. Mayo seemed to invent a new way to lose every time they appeared in a final. But this year was different. Indeed Roscommon can take at least a small bit of credit for helping our neighbours to get over the line.

Such were the repercussions in Mayo after they were hammered by Roscommon in April, Andy Moran had a total re-set and the team came back with all guns blazing. Anyone who was coming out of MacHale Park on that April evening would have said there was a greater chance of seeing pigs flying over Croagh Patrick than there was of Mayo winning the AllIreland this season. Well, you know what I mean.

One of the reasons why we love sport is because anything can happen and fair play to Mayo, they took the championship match by match, maximised their resources and paid no heed to the outside noise.

You will win nothing in Gaelic games without good forwards and Mayo were blessed with Darragh Beirne, Ryan O’Donoghue and Kobe McDonald this year. That was key last Sunday too.

Of course it was a ‘whole of team’ effort and last weekend’s win against defending champions Kerry was certainly not a fluke. It was thoroughly deserved. Mayo dominated in the middle third, they tackled like demons and they had the players to get the scores. Those of us who know Mayo people well and who have worked and lived in the county will know how much this All-Ireland win will mean to them. The party will go on until Christmas at least!

Roscommon’s status

So where does it all leave Roscommon? I still think that 2026 was a good year for our team. Those wins against Mayo and Galway in the Connacht Championship were fantastic, two of the best days we have had for many years.

The National League campaign was also memorable. To have secured another year in the top division with a round to spare was some achievement.

But Clones was a nightmare and a great pity for everyone concerned. It was a terrible way to end the year.

The Connacht Senior Football Championship has given Roscommon teams and supporters some of the greatest days in their history, but sadly under the new championship format, winning the provincial title is now absolutely no help at all in terms of the All-Ireland race. Mayo have fairly proven that.

The priorities will have to change. The league is important earlier in the year for sure, but a review of the effort that’s normally put in to try to win Connacht will need to take place. The priority has to be the (overall) championship series. It’s a sad reality. Three of the four provincial winners in 2026 were knocked out early in the championship. It is virtually impossible to peak for the provincial championship and

then peak again for the All-Ireland series. Roscommon proved earlier in the year that they have the players to challenge and beat the best teams out there. What we need is belief. If Mayo can do it, so can Roscommon.

The local club championships start this weekend and maybe Mark Dowd (Roscommon manager) and his selectors will unearth a few more diamonds for next year.

In 2027, it will have been 83 years since Roscommon lifted the Sam Maguire Cup. If Mayo can bridge a 75-year gap, why couldn’t Roscommon bridge an 83-year one?

Anything is possible. In the meantime, good luck to Mayo.

SportsPeople

Rebels seize the day

Disciplined

Roscommon left everything on the pitch

ZuCar LGFA All-Ireland Minor FC ‘A’ final Cork 0-11 Roscommon 0-7

< SEAMUS DUKE IN TULLAMORE

Some days it just doesn’t happen for you – and that was certainly the case for Roscommon’s minor ladies when they were defeated by Cork in the All-Ireland ‘A’ final played at Glenisk O’Connor Park in Tullamore on Saturday last.

Roscommon’s game plan was to defend ferociously in the opening half against the strong wind, something they did very well. Indeed at half-time Cork’s three-point lead looked very surmountable. But in the second half, when Roscommon had to come out and try to get matchwinning scores, Cork expertly dealt with the threat and did enough scoring themselves to secure victory.

After three or four weeks of very warm weather, there was a dramatic change of conditions on Saturday. A strong wind blew directly downfield and there were showers of mist and rain too.

Cork played with the aid of the elements in the opening half and from early on it was apparent that Roscommon were going to defend in numbers. It made for difficult viewing from a neutral point of view, but Roscommon were disciplined and tenacious.

The sides shared four points in the opening 13 minutes, with Isobel Kenny and Laura Glennon (a free) on target for Roscommon. In the 14th minute Cork were temporarily down to 14 when Ellen Connolly was yellow-carded for an off-theball tackle.

The influential Laura Walsh and Aoife Creevy exchanged points by the 22nd minute before Cork pulled three clear coming up to the break. Walsh pointed another free while Sarah Jane O’Connor and the excellent Roisin Ní Liatháin pointed to give the young Rebels a 0-6 to 0-3 half-time lead.

Roscommon needed to take the game to Cork on the resumption and it was looking good when Isobel Kenny kicked a super point in the 32nd minute.

However Cork began to take control and Roscommon were finding it difficult to get their hands on the ball. Points from Walsh (another free) and Ní Liatháin (two excellent efforts from play) extended the Cork lead to five (0-9 to 0-4). A pointed free from Laura Glennon in the 44th minute gave Roscommon some hope, but when Walsh converted two more frees by the 51st minute, it was 0-11 to 0-5 to the Munster team.

In fairness to Roscommon, they never gave up the fight, and staged a mini-rally late on. Laura Glennon pointed a free in the 57th minute, and when she added another point from play in the final minute of normal time, the margin was down to just four. Time ran out for Roscommon, and Cork deservedly retained their title.

Watching a Roscommon ladies team acquit themselves so well in an ‘A’ final was heartwarming and also bodes well for the future of the game in the county. These young Roscommon players have shown that the county can compete at the very highest level.

On the day, captain Shauna McGrath, Laura Glennon, Alanna McCormack, Meabh Finneran and Aoife Creevy were most prominent for Roscommon. Despite the disappointment of losing this final, it has been a wonderful year for the team.

Teams & scorers

Cork: Roisin Duggan; Anna Kelleher, Aoife Collins, Megan Barrett; Eimear Walsh, Ava Coughlan, Caoimhe O’Donnell (0-1); Cliona Ní Mhocáin, Sarah O’Connor (0-1); Lauran Finnegan (0-1), Laura Walsh (0-5, all frees), Ellen Connolly; Autumn Devereaux, Lauren O’Connor, Roisin Ní Liatháin (0-3). Subs: Aoife Treacy for O’Connor (40), Aine Kearney for Devereaux (49).

Roscommon: Lily Finneran; Esmae Halpin, Meabh Finneran, Alanna McCormack; Charlotte Trautt, Laura McSharry, Georgia Gerrity; Sarah Jane O’Connor, Rachel Higgins; Laura Glennon (0-4, 3 frees), Rachel Flynn, Aoife Creevy (0-1); Vivienne Glennon, Isobel Kenny (0-2), Shauna McGrath. Subs: Sarah Meghen for Flynn (39), Alison Nugent for Kenny (43), Chloe Mulryan for McGrath (51), Amy Rogers for Gannon (57).

Referee: Eddie Cuthbert (Down).

Stat Attack

Red cards: 0

Yellow cards: Cork 2 (Lauren Finnegan, 12; Caoimhe O’Donnell, 59); Roscommon: 0

Wides: Cork 7 (7, first half); Roscommon 6 (2, first half)

Attendance: Approx. 1500

Player of the Match: Roisin Ní Liatháin (Cork)

SportsPeople

‘Bittersweet’

Clohessy philosophical and proud!

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Trevor Clohessy’s immense pride in his players was evident as he reflected on the final, musing that they were not far from causing a real upset on the day.

“It’s kind of bittersweet. I’m not really down that much because we took on a team that haven’t been defeated in two years. We left a few scores behind us. They got a few scores from our turnovers.

“We planned to be three to five points down at halftime. But they acquitted themselves quite well in the second half. If you had told me when I took over that we’d be Connacht A champions, we’d be in an AllIreland A final against that Cork team – and lose by four points, having left a few behind – I’d have bitten your hand off.”

Clohessy said there was no doubt in his mind that Cork were a top quality team, but his side had matched them for most of the way.

“There are a lot of All-Ireland medals in that Cork team, and there were girls hungry to replicate what they had done last year. If I was from Galway, Dublin or Kerry, I’d be fearful of that Cork team, but our girls showed no fear. The scoreboard reflected that.

“There were very few goal chances in the game. We left a few scores behind and they left a few scores behind. The thing that’s killing me is that I’d love to get them back on the training field next Tuesday and play Cork again, if that makes sense.”

Trevor revealed that he had some serious personal issues to deal with during the year. “When I got the job in October, my wife had a heart anomaly, she nearly passed away. I was actually going to step away to look after her.

“But she said ‘I don’t want you to leave these girls hanging’. Every night I was at training was a distraction to me. She’s better now that she’s had her operation.

“These girls have been incredible. We’re still Connacht ‘A’ champions, we acquitted ourselves quite well, there were no cricket scores going up there. It’s just killing me now that we have to go home this evening.

“As I said, I’m not downbeat. What we’ve done here is create scaffolding, a foundation, that when these girls move on to adult football, they won’t be afraid of anyone.”

BIG THROW-IN

Spotlight switches to the 2026 club championships

SEAMUS DUKE looks ahead to the start of the club championships

Hodson Bay SFC (Round One)

Group A: St Brigid’s, Michael Glaveys, Strokestown, Western Gaels

GAME OF THE WEEKEND

St Brigid’s v Michael Glaveys in Kiltoom on Friday at 8 pm

While they may have lost the recent O’Rourke Cup final to Boyle, St Brigid’s are hot favourites to retain the Fahey Cup this year.

I presume Brian Stack, Shane Cunnane and Ruaidhrí Fallon will be back to bolster the team that started that league final. With Conor Hand, Robbie Dolan, Conor Carroll, Brian Derwin and Ciarán Sugrue also on board, they will be very hard to beat.

Glaveys will point to their great win (1-13 to 0-11) against Brigid’s in last year’s championship as evidence of what they are capable of. Indeed in 2024 Glaveys were a whisker away from making it to the county final. Amongst others, they have Conor Hussey, Niall Heneghan, Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Cathal Heneghan, Dylan Ruane, Shane O’Malley and Darragh Heneghan to go into battle. The Ballinlough club would love to repeat what they did last year, while Brigid’s will be eager to get back on the winning trail. With home advantage, they will be expected to do just that. It promises to be a cracking contest.

Prediction: St Brigid’s.

Western Gaels v Strokestown in Frenchpark on Saturday at 7.30 pm

This promises to be a very interesting clash. A win for either side will give them a great chance of avoiding the dreaded relegation play-offs. Western Gaels have been in those play-offs for the past three years and will be anxious to avoid it happening again. Strokestown are back in the senior ranks this year and with Colm Neary and Shane McGinley leading them, they should prevail in this opener.

Prediction: Strokestown.

Group B: Roscommon Gaels, Pádraig Pearses, Boyle, Clann na nGael

Pádraig Pearses v Roscommon Gaels in Woodmount on Friday at 8.30 pm

This is the well publicised ‘Group of Death’ and every game here is likely to be ultra-competitive. On form, Pearses would be the automatic choice, but they are short a number of players for various reasons. The Gaels, under Decie Hoare, are coming in under the radar. If they can get as many of their talented young players on the field there is the chance of causing an upset. This will be closer than a lot of people think. I’m going to sit on the fence.

Prediction: A draw.

Boyle v Clann na nGael in Boyle on Saturday at 5 pm

Boyle will come into the championship with momentum following that excellent win against St Brigid’s in the league final. Expect Donie and Enda Smith to be back for this match. Oisin Cregg, Cian McKeon, Tadhg McKenna and Daire Cregg will also be hoping to play a big part for the home side. Clann are always competitive in the championship but Fergal O’Donnell’s side look the better bet. Prediction: Boyle.

Oran v Elphin in Rockfield on Friday at 6.30 pm

Oran have been the ‘nearly’ team of the championship over the past few years. They have plenty of talented players and will be hoping for at least a semi-final spot this year.

Elphin stayed in the senior ranks with some comfort last year and they come into the 2026 championship on the back of a big win in the O’Gara Cup final against St Faithleach’s. It will be competitive, but with home advantage Pat Regan’s Oran look most likely winners.

Prediction: Oran.

St Faithleach’s v Castlerea St Kevins in Ballyleague on Sunday at 7.30 pm

St Faithleach’s will welcome back the Murtagh brothers for this championship opener – and on the evidence of their display in their O’Gara Cup final defeat to Elphin, they badly need them.

Castlerea have some fine young players and will make this a tough opener for the Ballyleague men. St Faithleach’s should have enough firepower to win it.

Prediction: St Faithleach’s.

McNulty Furniture IFC

Group A: Tulsk, St Dominic’s, St Brigid’s, St Barry’s Tulsk will be hoping they can build on last year’s run when they reached the semi-finals. They take on St Dominic’s on Friday evening at 7.30 pm in Tulsk. St Dominic’s had a poor senior championship campaign last year which culminated in relegation. They will have an eye on this IFC title but Liam McNeill’s Tulsk look to have the edge here.

Prediction: Tulsk.

The St Brigid’s second team entertain St Barry’s on Saturday evening at 5 pm. Barry’s will be competitive but St Brigid’s have plenty of playing options at their disposal and they should win.

Prediction: St Brigid’s.

Group B: Pádraig Pearses, St Michael’s, Shannon Gaels, Creggs

Pádraig Pearses start their campaign with a home game against St Michael’s on Saturday evening at 5 pm. Michael’s should make the long journey south worthwhile and I see them securing the win.

Prediction: St Michael’s.

Shannon Gaels start their championship with a home game against Creggs in Croghan on Saturday at 6 pm. There won’t be much between these two and a good game is on the cards. The Gaels will be hoping to make home advantage count and I take them to get over the line.

Prediction: Shannon Gaels.

Group C: Fuerty, Éire Óg, Kilmore, St Croan’s

Fuerty host Éire Óg, the beaten finalists from the past two championships, in Mulhern Park on Friday at 7.30 pm. Fuerty are always competitive but if Éire Óg field close to their strongest team they should have plenty in the tank to win this tie.

Prediction: Éire Óg.

Kilmore are always very hard to beat in the championship, but they will be tested by last year’s junior champions St Croans (on Sunday in Croghan at 5 pm). If Croans bring the momentum from last year’s campaign to the table, they should start with a win.

Prediction: St Croans.

King & Moffatt JF ‘A’ Championship

In Group A, this weekend’s action sees St Dominic’s’ second side play one of the title favourites, St Aidan’s. The Ballyforan side should win this fixture. Ballinameen are another team that will have designs on the title and they should be good enough to defeat Boyle’s second team in a local derby.

Group B opens with St Joseph’s at home to St Ronan’s and the Ballyfarnon side will be favourites to win that one. The Western Gaels second team will be up against it when they face Kilglass Gaels in Frenchpark. The men from the Rooskey area should win that clash.

In Group C, Kilbride should be good enough to win the local derby with Roscommon Gaels’ second team. Clann na nGael’s second side get the nod to defeat the St Brigid’s third string on home soil.

2026 Roscommon GAA Club Football Championship launch

The countdown is on to one of the most eagerly anticipated periods in the Roscommon GAA calendar, with the 2026 Roscommon GAA Senior, Intermediate and Junior Club Football Championships getting underway on this Friday, July 31st.

Across the coming months, 37 teams will compete across the Senior, Intermediate and Junior Football Championships, rep resenting clubs from every corner of County Roscommon. With several clubs fielding teams in more than one grade, the championships promise another season of highly competitive football, highlighting the depth of talent, passion and pride that exists throughout the county.

Players, mentors, volunteers, and supporters will once again play their part in creating the unique atmosphere that makes the Roscommon Club Championships so special.

In preparation for the new season, Roscommon GAA was delighted to hold its official Club Championship photoshoot at Strokestown Park House and The Irish National Famine Museum earlier this month. Representatives from all 37-seven participating teams gathered in the magnificent surroundings of one of County Roscommon’s most iconic heritage locations for the annual championship launch photographs.

The occasion also brought together the valued sponsors of the three adult football championships. The Hodson Bay Group, proud sponsors of the Senior Football Championship, were represented by Tim Hayes (Managing Director) and Johnny Connaughton (General Manager). McNulty Furniture, sponsors of the Intermediate Football Championship, were represented by John Mee, Club Rossie Business Liaison Officer, while King & Moffatt, sponsors of the Junior Football Championship, were represented by Damian Glover (Director). Roscommon GAA sincerely thanks each of their championship sponsors for their continued support and commitment to Gaelic Games in the county.

Roscommon GAA also extends its sincere appreciation to Ger Aherne, John O’Driscoll, and Eilish Canty, together with the entire team at

Strokestown Park House & The Irish National Famine Museum, for the warm welcome, outstanding hospitality and professionalism shown throughout the evening.

Roscommon GAA said: “Their assistance ensured the event ran seamlessly and provided a spectacular backdrop to showcase our players ahead of the championship.

“With championship fever beginning to build, Roscommon GAA looks forward to another season of thrilling football, memorable moments and tremendous support from clubs and communities throughout the county.

“We wish every team, player, mentor, referee, volunteer, and supporter the best of luck for the 2026 Roscommon GAA Senior, Intermediate and Junior Football Championships.”