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03 April 2020

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 675

Murphy’s quick comeback! < PAUL HEALY

Eugene Murphy, fresh from being elected to the Seanad on Wednesday, says it is important that a new government is formed as quickly as possible so that the “massive job of work” involved in dealing with the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic can begin. Senator Murphy, who lost his Dáil seat in February, said that he was “thrilled” to have been elected to the Seanad. He said he had been on a political rollercoaster in recent months. “It’s no secret that I was devastated to lose in the recent General Election…not for reasons of finance or ego, but because we had worked so hard for the previous four years. It’s clear that the strategy (Fianna Fáil running two candidates) didn’t work, and it’s just great to be back now in the Oireachtas”. See page 16.

Meitheal spirit kicks in as Roscommon Covid cases remain low < PAUL HEALY

There were just ten confirmed cases of Covid-19 in County Roscommon as of Wednesday evening (yesterday). Nationally, there were 3,447 confirmed cases in the Republic of Ireland, with 85 deaths linked to Covid-19. Meanwhile, a tremendous ‘Meitheal spirit’ is building up throughout County Roscommon. A dedicated 24-hour community support helpline has been established in Roscommon County Council to assist at-risk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical supports and advice during the current Covid-19 public health emergency. The confidential phoneline service is being established by the new Covid-19

Roscommon Community Response Forum, which includes numerous agencies and organisations. The helpline is focused primarily on ensuring that vulnerable members of the community or those living alone can access deliveries of groceries, medicine and fuels. Included in the Covid-19 Roscommon Community Response Forum are: Roscommon County Council, including Fire Service and Civil Defence personnel; Health Service Executive; An Garda Síochána; Roscommon LEADER Partnership; An Post; Other community, voluntary and sports representatives. The community support helpline is Freephone 1800 200 727 and support email is covidsupport@roscommoncoco.ie. The helpline is open 24-7. Roscommon County Council will oper-

Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498

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ate the helpline from 8 am to 8 pm and An Garda Síochána in Roscommon will operate it from 8 pm to 8 am. We have full details in this issue. Meanwhile, the ‘Roscommon Responds’ initiative in Roscommon town area – set up by Roscommon Chamber, Roscommon LEADER and the Roscommon People – has gained immediate momentum. Mr. Paul Clabby of Roscommon LEADER Partnership told the Roscommon People on Wednesday: “We have already seen an increased demand from people and businesses availing of this initiative, and we are actively working to support local businesses to maintain service provision and assist with deliveries to households”. (See details on page 11).

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Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

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

090 647 8433

www.bccsolicitors.ie Agricultural Relief

I am a part-time farmer and I understand that I will inherit my father’s farm after his death. He is quite elderly and in poor health at present. Whilst I will obviously be very grateful for the farm I am very concerned that I may be left with a large tax bill. I believe the farm may be worth around €750,000 at the moment. I understand that the relevant tax date will be the date of my father’s death. Please advise me. At present, a child may inherit up to €335,000 from their parents without being liable for tax. Any inheritance valued in excess of this amount will be taxed at a rate of 33%. This tax is called Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) or more commonly inheritance tax or gift tax. However, farmers may qualify for a very valuable relief called Agricultural Relief. If you qualify for the relief then the CAT will be calculated on 10% of the market value of the agricultural property received as a gift or inheritance. You essentially get 90% of the market value of the agricultural property tax free. Example, if you qualify for Agricultural Relief the value of the farm you are scheduled to inherit will no longer be valued at €750,000 for tax purposes. Instead it will be valued at just 10% of its value and you will be considered to have received an inheritance of €75,000 for tax purposes, well below the tax threshold resulting in €0 inheritance tax liability. In order to qualify for this 90% Agricultural Relief you must pass two tests i.e. be a “farmer” and also an “active farmer” as defined by the Revenue Commissioners. The farmer test is a financial test whereby 80% or more of your gross assets, after receiving the agricultural inheritance, must comprise farm assets. You must also be an active farmer for 6 years after you get the inheritance of agricultural property OR you must lease the land to a person who is an active farmer for the 6 year period. An active farmer is a person with a formal agricultural qualification or if you do not hold one of the formal agricultural qualifications you must spend 50% of your normal working time farming agricultural property.Such criteria applies to a gift or inheritance of agricultural property. May I respectfully suggest that you liaise with your Accountant and secure tax planning advices so as to ensure you are best placed to qualify for agricultural relief in due course.

With WithPAUL PAULHEALY HEALY

CYCLING ACCIDENT

So, my friend…are we doing this? Wha’? If you were involved in a cycling Filling in the blanks. Telling readers accident contact ourByrne back story. Like we said… Carolan Oh I dunno…what the People readers Cunningham Solicitors don’t know won’t harm them… But…but…you often said, we owe it to them! Did I? Yeah…in the early days, when this column first appeared, you used to say…‘hey, we need to fill our readers in on our back story! How we got here…’ I think everyone knows how we got here…and it IS a family publication… I don’t mean how we literally got here! No, you used to say we owe it to our readers…to introduce ourselves. All they see every week is the ramblings of two anonymous chaps in a pub! You used to say… It was off the record! But the point is, this is our opportunity, in this limbo period in all our lives…to enlighten readers. Enlighten? Yes, be open…accountable, transparent… Oh, don’t like the sound of that… Wha’? Being transparent, that doesn’t sit well with me. But we’re in the media! All the more reason to be transparent! Mmmn…not sure I agree, not when it comes to me! Why, have you a full cupboard? Well yes, but I am planning to do lots of spring cleaning…now that we have so much time on our hands…why are you suddenly asking about my cupboard? Full of skeletons, is it? Is that why

Endangered Species The barstool boyos

you don’t want to enlighten the readers? Oh, I see what you did there! Nope, no skeletons in my cupboard…just cardigans and jumpers that I’ll never wear again! Ah, but you might… Why? Because you’ll be a new man when all this is over. They say we’ll all be changed people. You might even wear those old cardigans. Your hair will certainly be longer. You may have a beard. I can see you revisiting your hippie years… I didn’t have hippie years, and please don’t reveal anything about my past! That was just one summer!

You’re trying to have it both ways! You reserve the right to pontificate on page two of this newspaper every week, but still you won’t inform readers as to your true identity! We never said we’d reveal our names! We’re just The Barstool Boyos! I may have mentioned giving a bit of our back story, but that was off the record! Please don’t abandon me now! Stick to the plan! We have a plan? Well, stick to whatever it is we’re doing! So no information for the readers… just our ramblings? I’ll think about it! Have a chat with the skeletons… No skeletons! Anyways, good to have this phone call. I hope you’re keeping well… Yes! And you? Social distancing. Washing hands. Following etiquette if coughing or sneezing. Staying at home. We can do this! Yes, and to all our readers…stay safe, and look out for the elderly and vulnerable. (There’s silence on the line) Think about it. We owe it to our readers. They deserve to know a bit more about us. Where did we come from? What are our family details? What do we work at? The source of our friendship… Problem there… Wha’? SOURCE of our friendship? Like you said, we’re in the media…we CANNOT reveal our sources!

What we liked…

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

The beautiful weather of recent days has been very welcome…and may even have some virus-banishing powers?

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

What we didn’t like…

SOLICITORS

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

Reports of criminals trying to take advantage of the Covid-19 crisis with scams and other opportunist conduct didn’t surprise us…they’re still reprehensible!

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

What PEOPLE are talking about

Learn to drive in 2020 with

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

PIC OF THE WEEK: When Castlerea man Austin Waldron flew home (via Aer Lingus) from Washington DC recently, the plane was almost empty…reflecting the current situation arising from Covid-19.

Miriam O’Callaghan’s impressive hosting of the Late Late Show; hey, the Olympics have fallen by the wayside too (rescheduled to next year); the great Meitheal spirit shown by Irish people in response to Covid-19; and…‘Does the 2km limit apply to distance to the shops (no) or distance you can travel from your house for the purpose of exercise? (Yes)…

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople In these challenging times, there is a need for positive thinking…for hope… and for kindness. The advice to people is to try and stay calm. To eat and sleep well. Exercise. Be kind. It is important, during this Covid-19 health crisis, to look after ourselves, but also to look out for the welfare of others. Looking after our collective mental health is so important now, more than ever. At a time when making personal contact is not advised, there are other ways in which we can support one another, including by phone and through social media.

Sending a card or a gift is another thoughtful way of letting a loved one, a friend, a vulnerable or lonely neighbour, know that you are thinking of them… and that they are not alone.

Due to the Covid-19 health crisis, and in the interests of the health and welfare of our staff and customers, we are temporarily closed

Local artist Rita Oates specialises in artwork which is positive, hopeful, uplifting. Her collections of personalised greeting cards and prints and frames reflect the beauty of nature, the positivity that is all around… as well as hope and kindness.

Please follow all HSE guidelines and stay safe

Take a moment to view her inspirational work on www.ritaoatesartist.ie. Rita says: “I wish all who view my work the gift of positivity”.

Main St, Roscommon Telephone: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie – Web: www.etlgifts.ie

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Tributes to miners’ champion Charlie Hopkins Tributes have been paid to former Mayor of Roscommon Charlie Hopkins, pictured right, who died earlier this week following a short illness. A county councillor from 1991 to 2009, the late Mr. Hopkins was a hugely respected community figure. Deputy Frank Feighan said: “It is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing of my former colleague, Charlie Hopkins”. Deputy Feighan said that Charlie Hopkins was a Fine Gael public representative who was very highly regarded within communities across counties Roscommon, Leitrim and Sligo. “He was a formidable politician who represented the people of Co. Roscommon with dignity, honesty and integrity. “A former miner in Arigna and a tenacious trade union representative, Charlie served on Roscommon County Council from 1991 until 2009, where I had the pleasure to work alongside him for the betterment of the people of Roscommon”. Extending his sympathies to Charlie’s wife Joan and family, Deputy Feighan said that Charlie Hopkins was a great colleague and party member and a person who will be truly missed by all who knew him. Cllr. Liam Callaghan, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, also paid tribute to the late Charlie

w. Log in to ww e eople.i roscommonp st for all the late local news!

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Hopkins. He said: “Charlie Hopkins was a very distinguished public representative for many years. He served a number of terms on Roscommon County Council, including as Mayor. “Charlie was a great local representative, a true champion of the people. He will always be remembered for his great work for the Arigna miners and their families. When the Mines closed, Charlie was to the forefront in securing compensation for miners, and later he was very involved in developing the Mining Museum and Miners’ Way & Historical Trail”. Cllr. Callaghan said that Charlie Hopkins was a great Fine Gael representative who had served the party well. “He will be greatly missed. On behalf of Fine Gael, I wish to extend sympathy to Joan and family at this very difficult time”.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

A diary of the times that are (part 3) Friday Like tense athletes waiting for the gun at the start of an Olympic 100m final, the public is poised…waiting, waiting, waiting. The waiting, as so often, is the worst part; we need to be released, in this case to the stark clarity of lockdown, to some certainty in our currently uncertain lives. I was getting into my car when a text pinged. It read ‘Leo’s addressing the nation at 8.30’. These big moments, with which we are becoming so familiar, we now know to mean: more restrictions, edging us towards lockdown. Knowing that more is coming can be frightening…yet it is what so many people have been calling for, what many have already been prescribing themselves. I was home by 8.30, to see Bryan Dobson and George Lee filling in the time. A few minutes later, Leo was at the now familiar podium. This time, it was a more low budget presentation. ‘Leo 1’ had been broadcast live from near The White House. ‘Leo 2’ was a brilliant production on St. Patrick’s Day…a superbly pitched speech in an evocative, patriotic setting, Government Buildings glimmering in green. ‘Leo 3’ was as plain as its message. No green, just gloom. There were three men on the platform. All three would address us. There were two ladies, both of them sign language interpreters. That’s five solemn faces. Leo outlined the latest restrictions. They arguably weren’t as shocking as some might have feared. I suppose we had been well prepared. And Leo and Simon (Harris) mixed hope with the harsh realities. If we do as we’re asked, we can get on top of this pest. Later, the Late Late Show was presented

by Miriam O’Callaghan (Ryan Tubridy was unwell; it later emerged that he has Covid-19). I’ve a proud track record of trying to puncture Miriam’s ego (I present, as evidence, all those Sunday Independent ‘Life Magazine’ specials!). But I’m prepared to declare a Covid ceasefire. I thought Miriam did a very good job as host. And Hozier, delivering three songs with emotion and dignity in an almost empty studio, was wonderful.

Saturday/Sunday Just when we were all engulfed by Covid gloom (as we still are), there was, at least, a welcome substitution on the weather front. Rain was hauled off, replaced by crisp sunshine. In a local shop, the woman behind the newly-constructed glass panel at the counter looked forlorn when the C-word inevitably came up. “It’s horrible” she said. I had to agree. All anyone is talking about is that dreadful C-word. And it’s not the Championship. It’s Covid. And all anyone wants to know is, how long will this go on?

Monday/Tuesday Last week I said Roscommon Town – our great county town – was Eerie Town. This week, it’s Even Eeerier Town. But it’s the same in every town, village – and city – in the country. The vast majority of premises’ are closed. People are out walking, a few cars trundle along. It is an extraordinary sight. But we have great community spirit throughout the county and country. A fantastic Meitheal response is putting it up to this virus. It has been so heartwarming

to see the great response of individuals and clubs. So many people are involved (under guidance, and adhering to guidelines) in delivering vital goods and services to households. Roscommon County Council is now taking a key leadershop role (with Covid-19 Community Response Forums being set up in every city/county in the country). Our friends in Roscommon LEADER Partnership are playing a blinder, so too Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and An Garda Síochána. For information on the various forms of assistance that are available, please see the following pages this week: Page 8 (Re: Roscommon County Council and Roscommon Chamber); Page 10 (Roscommon LEADER); Page 11 (‘Roscommon Responds’), and Pages 6 & 7 for Local Enterprise Office supports. In fact there aren’t that many pages in this week’s issue where there isn’t some Covid-19 advice!

Wednesday, 5 pm In the office, we are putting together another edition of the Roscommon People. Virtually every incoming email is related to Covid-19. It’s amazing. This virus is impacting on EVERTHING. I need a break from the screen. Time for a five-minute walk. Abbey Street in Roscommon town is a great street, steeped in history, with many fine buildings, the finest of which is the magnificent Sacred Heart Church. Outside, to beautiful weather. At this moment, I am the only person on the entire street. Every office door is closed, Covid notices proclaiming their now familiar messages.

Billy was a one-off who will be greatly missed

“

He is gone much too soon and I know that the people of the town – and further afield – are deeply saddened as his passing. He was a one-off, and he will be grealty missed.

Conor Connelly tributes: Pages 29-31 A dark cloud, formed of sadness and grief, descended on Roscommon last Saturday. The shock death of the former Roscommon GAA star Conor Connelly at just 44 years of age stunned us all. Later on Saturday, the county town lost a very popular local man with the passing of Billy Connaughton. Billy, a retired prison officer, was known far and wide. On pages 29-31, we publish a number of tributes to Conor, a sporting star and much-loved family man. Billy Connaughton, who sadly passed away last Saturday, was an immensely popular figure in Roscommon. He died after a relatively short illness. A member of a highly respected family, he was larger than life, with a wonderful personality. It was always a pleasure to meet him, whether socially or on one of his regular

walks. He had a great way with him; you left a conversation with Billy with a smile…and your day greatly enhanced. He is gone much too soon and I know that the people of the town – and further afield – are deeply saddened as his passing. He was a one-off, and he will be greatly missed. To his wife Anne, daughter Emma, son John, grandson Richard, brothers Michael and Eddie, further relatives and many, many friends, deepest sympathy is extended. Due to Government guidelines in relation to Covid-19, Billy’s funeral will be held privately. A Memorial Mass to celebrate Billy’s life will be held at a later date and I have no doubt that the community will show its affection for Billy and sympathy for his grieving family at that time. I am conscious too that other families in this area have lost loved ones in recent days. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.

A few Roscommon flags flutter from windows, in honour of Conor. Silence reigns. No people. Nothing moving. There is not even the sound of a distant lawnmower. There is, mercifully, the sound of birds singing. Normally, we might not hear them… Two kids approach on bikes, chattering and smiling, and continue on up towards McNeill’s roundabout. The silence returns. The town waits. The world waits. But there is the sense here in Ireland that we are doing things right, from our leaders right down to the people. Inching, we hope and trust, towards better and brighter times.

“

But we have great community spirit throughout the county and country. A fantastic Meitheal response is putting it up to this virus. It has been so heartwarming to see the great response of individuals and clubs.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

STAY SAFE

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

New Business Continuity Voucher goes live through Local Enterprise Office Roscommon

We’re back live!

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

Publising the PEOPLE…

Roscommon People… your locally-owned community newspaper

Due to the Covid-19 health crisis, and in the interests of the safety of our staff and customers, the Roscommon People office in Abbey Street is closed temporarily. The Roscommon People will continue to publish our print and online editions. To our readers and advertisers, we say thank you for your wonderful support. It is a challenging times for all SMEs, includ-

ing the local media. We look forward to your continued support in the weeks and months ahead, and we appeal to our readers to continue to support all local businesses. Of paramount importance at this time is people’s health. Please follow all HSE guidelines and engage in social distancing. Stay safe and take care. Contacting THE PEOPLE If you have enquiries on advertising, or want a story covered, call 086-8054227, email paul@roscommonpeople.ie or advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The new Business Continuity Voucher is now available through Local Enterprise Office Roscommon and is open to sole traders and companies across every business sector locally that employ up to 50 people, the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys has announced. The voucher is worth up to €2,500 in third party consultancy costs and can be used by companies and sole traders in Roscommon to develop short-term and long-term strategies to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic. The goal is to help business owners make informed decisions about what immediate measures and actions should be taken to protect staff and sales. Making the announcement, Minister Humphreys said: “I know that this is a very worrying time for businesses. As part of the package of supports that I announced recently, I am making a €2,500 voucher available through the Local Enterprise Offices to enable enterprises to avail of vital business continuity advice. This will assist them to develop strategies to deal with the Covid-19

outbreak in both the short-term and long-term”. She added: “The voucher will give companies access to contingency planning advice that will help them to continue trading through this crisis and to be ready for the recovery phase, when it comes. It will also help firms to prepare a business case so that they can apply for emergency financial interventions through the banks, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland or Microfinance Ireland”. The scheme is open to all types of businesses, across all industries and sectors, that employ up to 50 people. To apply, companies or sole traders fill out a short application form and submit it directly to Local Enterprise Office Roscommon by email. When a company is issued with a voucher for third party consultancy, they be-

gin working directly with a qualified expert, selected from existing Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland panels. Louise Ward, Head of the Local Enterprise Office in Roscommon County Council, welcomed the launch of the new support, saying: “For a huge number of small businesses, survival is the overriding objective at this time, so making the right decisions is crucial. There is where the new Business Continuity Voucher can help”. Louise added: “The kind of areas that the voucher will help will vary, depending on the needs of each local business, but it will include very important measures such as preparing a business case for application to emergency funding, developing a business continuity plan, reducing variable costs or implementing remote working procedures”. To apply for the Business Continuity Voucher, companies can submit a short application form to Local Enterprise Office Roscommon by email to localenterprise@roscommoncoco. ie. Application forms are available to download from www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Response

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Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Council takes lead in linking organisations to assist citizens during Covid-19 Dedicated community support helpline now available

At the instigation of Minister Murphy a Covid-19 Community Response Forum has been in place for each City/ County and co-ordinated by the Local Authority in each case. A dedicated community support helpline has been established in Roscommon County Council to assist at-risk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical

supports and advice during the current public health emergency. The confidential phoneline service is being established by the new Covid-19 Roscommon Community Response Forum, which includes numerous agencies and organisations. The helpline is focused primarily on ensuring that vulnerable members of the community or those living alone can access deliveries of groceries, medicine and fuels. The role of the Forum is to ensure that there is a co-ordinated community response and to enable all voluntary statutory agencies to collaborate in support of

our communities and particularly of our most vulnerable members. Included in the Covid-19 Roscommon Community Response Forum are: Roscommon County Council, including Fire Service and Civil Defence personnel; Health Service Executive; An Garda Síochána; Roscommon LEADER Partnership; An Post; Other community, voluntary and sports representatives. The new helpline is just one aspect of the Forum’s work. Its core aim is contributing to the community-wide effort to limit the spread of Covid-19.

Roscommon County Council, through this group, will ensure that the wide variety of groups working across the county to assist those in need, will do so in an organised, collaborative and targeted way. The Council’s Covid-19 Community Response Forum is there to ensure the very best use of the many resources assisting vulnerable persons with their daily needs at this unprecedented time, whether that is collecting medication, food shopping, social support and contact. The community support helpline is Freephone 1800 200 727 and support

email is covidsupport@roscommoncoco.ie. The helpline is open 24-7. Roscommon County Council will operate the helpline from 8 am to 8 pm and An Garda Síochána in Roscommon will operate it from 8 pm to 8 am. Contact details of this new service will be promoted on: Council websites/ Twitter and Facebook and in the local media. An information leaflet including the new freephone number and other information will be distributed around the county/city, particularly to vulnerable households, over the coming days.

‘Roscommon Responds’ gathers momentum See page 11 < PAUL HEALY

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL BURSARY AWARDS 2020 Roscommon County Council Arts Office is now accepting applications for The Chapbook Bursary 2020. The Roscommon Chapbook Bursary has been established to assist Roscommon writers with the costs associated with publishing a modest collection of poems (15 – 20) or a compact collection of short stories (3 – 6). One award of €500 will be offered in 2020. Further details and application forms are available on: http://www. roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/community/arts-office/grants-and-bursaries.html Return Completed Applications to: Arts Office, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98 AND Email to: bursaries@roscommoncoco.ie with ’Roscommon Chapbook Bursary (applicant name)’ typed in the subject box. The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 5pm, Friday 26th June 2020. Late applications will not be considered. Roscommon County Council reserves the right not to award a bursary should the submissions, in the opinion of the adjudicator and the Council, not achieve a sufficiently high standard. For further information, please contact Aine Butler at abutler@roscommoncoco.ie or telephone (09066) 37271. Majella Hunt, Director of Services Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, F42 VR98

The ‘Roscommon Responds’ initiative (see details on page 11) is already having a very positive impact – for householders and businesses alike. Mr. Paul Clabby of Roscommon LEADER Partnership told the Roscommon People on Wednesday: “We have already seen an increased demand from people and businesses availing of this initiative, and we are actively working to support local businesses to maintain service provision and assist with deliveries to households”. ‘Roscommon Responds’ is a Roscommon Chamber of Commerce initiative aimed at helping local householders, and businesses, during the Covid-19 crisis. The initiative has been undertaken with the support of Roscommon LEADER Partnership and in conjunction with the Roscommon People newspaper. ‘Roscommon Responds’ is a home delivery system aimed at ensuring that local businesses can reach customers at this time of crisis. The initiative will provide a vital

service to householders, and also be a lifeline for the local economy – which is reeling from the impact of Covid-19. This week we are publishing a list of participating businesses (page 11). Roscommon Chamber invites other businesses in Roscommon Town who feel they can get involved in this project to make contact now. The Chamber is stressing that this initiative is open to ALL businesses (not just Chamber members). In fact, membership to Roscommon Chamber of Commerce is free this year (see www.roscommonchamber.com). The project is being trialed in Roscommon Town and environs first, but every effort will be

made to expand the Roscommon Responds network so that the service is available to as wide a catchment area as possible in this most challenging of times for the public.

How it works 1. Call in your order with your favourite shops in town and pay over the phone 2. They will coordinate delivery to you via the LEADER Partnership network, using social distancing procedures 3. All will be done in the safest possible way (observing social distancing guidelines) in these sensitive times

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

Roscommon County Council

Essential Services during Covid-19 Pandemic

COMMUNITY SUPPORT RESPONSE HELPLINE In light of the recent COVID 19 restrictions for vulnerable people in our community Roscommon County Council and An Garda Siochana have set up a 24 hour Freephone Community Support Response Helpline to assist in the delivery of targeted social care supports and assistance to vulnerable groups and individuals across our county. The Helpline will assist the most vulnerable deal with the upheaval to their daily lives as the reality of COVID19 unfolds. Community Support Response services include collecting groceries, prescriptions and medication, Meals-onWheels, assistance with errands and the offer of a helping hand or a friendly voice at the end of the phone. Healthcare needs will be provided by the HSE. The Community Support Response for vulnerable members of our community is available by contacting the Community Support Helpline:

FREEPHONE

1800 200 727 or email covidsupport@roscommoncoco.ie

HELPLINE AVAILABILITY TIMES: Day-time: 8am-8pm by Roscommon County Council. Night-time: 8pm-8am by An Garda Siochana.

In partnership with An Garda Siochana Roscommon Council have developed an INTERACTIVE MAP which represents volunteer groups and other relevant services that are on-call for those who need them most. Community Groups can sign up to be a part of this initiative which will help the venerable in our County. The online application form is available on the Council’s website under ‘Covid-19 Community Supports’ on www.roscommoncoco.ie This Interactive Volunteer Map is also available to view online on the Council’s website under ‘Covid-19 Community Supports’ a person or community group may view the supports on the map by just clicking in the map on an area and the area list of all registered supports in the particular area will appear. In the event that the person or group are not in a position to access the map or application form online contact the community support response helpline for assistance. Phone Roscommon Garda Station 090 663 7300 or Castlerea Garda Station 090 962 1630 or phone Helpline 1800 200 727.

Roscommon County Council has been advised by Government to close all our ofﬁces, libraries, swimming pool, Art Centre and King House to the public until April 19th 2020. During this closure the following essential services will be delivered within the HSE and Government guidelines.

WATER

HOUSING

Water Services will continue to ensure there is a quality water and wastewater service provided throughout the county on behalf of Irish Water. Water and wastewater testing and monitoring service will be carried out as normal. For updates on water services, please see: www.water.ie or phone 1850 278278.

There may be some extra demands on some of our services in relation to housing matters and we are available to respond. Contact: 090 6637100 or email info@roscommoncoco.ie

FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

Emergency callouts, winter maintenance and Public Lighting/Trafﬁc lights works will operate as normal. Contact: 090 6637100 or email info@roscommoncoco.ie

Fire Stations at Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Elphin & Strokestown will continue to respond to emergency calls via the 999/112 system. Fire Safety Certificates and Disability Access Certificates will continue to be accepted by post. The Building Control Management System (BCMS) will remain available for the digital submission of Commencement Notices/ 7 day notices and Compliance on Completion Certificates (CCC’s). Roscommon Civil Defence will assist the HSE as the primary lead agency in this crisis. Enquiries can be made by phoning: 090 6637100 or email info@roscommoncoco.ie

ROADS

ENVIRONMENT Environmental complaints maybe notiﬁed by phone or email. Photographs and location should be included where possible. Appropriate action will be taken to combat the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Civic Amenity sites are currently operational as normal in Roscommon, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea and Boyle. The bulky goods recycling service for couch, armchair, mattress and divan base bed etc. is suspended at this time. Report full/overﬂowing bring banks in order that they can be serviced. Contact: 090 6637100 or email info@roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon County Council strongly advise the public to follow all guidance issued by the HSE especially in practicing physical/social distancing. In addition, we would encourage the public to watch out for each other particularly the vulnerable in our society. These are very difﬁcult times for everyone. Our priority in Roscommon County Council is to ensure that essential services are maintained and that we are available to support the HSE in any way we can.

While our ofﬁces are closed please use our online services, telephone, email or the postal service to contact us.

www.roscommoncoco.ie. My Online Services EMAIL info@roscommoncoco.ie TELEPHONE 090 66 37100 POSTAL Áras an Chontae, Roscommon Town F42 VR98. WEBSITE

While all our essential services are operational, please note that there may be a delay in processing some queries. You can also visit our dedicated webpage on our website to keep you up to date. Social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter will also keep you informed and updated.

BUSINESS SUPPORT Roscommon Local Enterprise Ofﬁce (LEO) is ready to assist business to address the critical challenges presented by COVID-19 virus pandemic. Full details on website at https://www.localenterprise.ie/Response Contact 090 6626263 or 090 6637100 Email localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie

COMMUNITY FACILITIES Currently all outdoor recreational facilities, remain open to the public with the exception of playgrounds. Closure of playgrounds throughout the county will protect the young against the spread of the virus.

PLANNING Customers may post or email documentation to the Planning Department. Planning applications can be viewed online via our website. Contact: 090 6637100 or email info@roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Roscommon LEADER Partnership continuing to support communities with essential services Roscommon LEADER Partnership is continuing to provide essential services to people and communities in County Roscommon by working collaboratively with other agencies and organisations under the new Covid-19 Roscommon Local Emergency Response Forum. The role of the Forum is to ensure that there is a co-ordinated community response and to enable all voluntary and statutory agencies to collaborate in support of our communities and particularly of our most vulnerable members. Roscommon LEADER Partnership staff have been redeployed as geographical groups to assist with service provision across the county responding to the needs from callers and the referrals they receive from the new community support helpline. The dedicated community support helpline has been established by Roscommon County Council with the support of An

Garda Síochána to assist at-risk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical supports and advice during the current public health emergency. The helpline is focused primarily on ensuring that vulnerable members of the community or those living alone can access deliveries of groceries, medicine, fuels, etc. The support helpline is available 24 hours a day FREEPHONE: 1800 200 727 or by email covidsupport@roscommoncoco.ie. Roscommon LEADER Partnership would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the enormous contributions of volunteers, clubs, communities, organisations and agencies right across the county in responding to the needs of the most vulnerable locally. Roscommon LEADER Partnership would like to remind you all of their extended portfolio of services. See advertisement.

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

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

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

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

ROSCOMMON RESPONDS Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon

Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon

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

Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people and communities facing with righttheacross Roscommon duein to Covid-19. We want youPeople to A Roscommon Chamber of Commerceare initiative, support County of Roscommon Leader, and association with The Roscommon know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those inAs isolation/living To the people of Roscommon: a community, we need to respond to the Covid-19 crisis. Our health is the extending current services alone/elderly offeringmany a friendly voice from trained volunteers. to reach the wider community. These supports include… know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are

extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include… Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of need and working with existing similar service providers in the Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of county. need and working with existing similar service providers in the county.

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

paramount concern. We must also keep Roscommon Town ‘moving’ to ensure that we can live as normally as possible. For many years you have come to townExtending toinformation shop. services Now, with Roscommon Responds, the town will come to you! Extending our supports under the volunteer our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of programme to existing voluntary groups and giving advice to volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

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

need andResponds working with existing similar service providers in the Roscommon participant list ...

county. and working in collaboration Government Departments and During the full lockdown essential services havegaps fullin priority and in busy periods thewith vulnerable, cocooned and isolated are serviced first. Please We are currently identifying areas with service provision other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & and workingbusinesses in collaboration with Government Departments and the self employed including additional admin you support.require. Please call the business direct to discuss note that all non-essential listed are available for emergencies or essentials that other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & your requirements. supplied andadmin delivered theAll selfproducts employed including additional support. from businesses will comply with current HSE regulations/guidelines during COVID 19. Some items carry strict restrictions for delivery through this system (i.e. cigarettes alcohol), discuss this directly with the individual businesses. All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision

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

Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living Contact Category Business Products/services Contact alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers. Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

LEADER Partnership is here to help you through this crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query on any of our existing services please contact us on any of the following numbers:

Category Business Telephone: 090 6630252

Pharmacy & Health

Tomás: 086 0460176

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Molloy’s Pharmacy

McGuiness’ Total Health

Pharmacy & Health

Chemco Pharmacy

Pharmacy

Tattie Hoaker Health Store

Meat

Pharmacy & Health

Pharmacy Health

Claddagh Optical Madden’s meats

Optician

Currently closed but available for urgent requests

090 6637604

Hynes’ Pharmacy Pharmacy, Health, & Best for Baby Baby

Rosmed Pharmacy

Products/services Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Gail: 086 8532915

090 6634147

Home

& Garden

RM Tool hire

Tommy Kelly Electrics, Roscommon

Tool hire service

090 6630700

Electrical goods and service

090 6634465

6626193 Klassic Cleaners cleaners, Pick up service Extending090our supports under the volunteerDry information services083 8589206 only for the moment 090 6665524 programme to existing and Mens, giving advice to086 6083650 Clothing voluntary Donnellan & groups Co Menswear, Womens and & Shoes Childrens shoes 090 6665800 volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the086 8696262 Spirit Clothing Mens, Womens and Childrens wear. 090 6630492 crisis. Donnellan Lady Ladies fashion and essentials 086 6083650 090 6626220

Butcher shop

090 6626360

Skincare

Skincare and Health Spa Guinot skincare products, and Beauty Jane Iredale make up, Wella hair products

090 6626041

We are currently identifying areas with gaps inproducts service provision090 6625904 Eden Skincare Skincare and supplements Harte’s Butchers Butcher shop 086 6052505 and Laser Clinic Castlemine Farm shop Butchers shop and cooked meals 090 6625964 and working in collaboration with Government Departments and090 6626520 Learning, art, Cormican’s Office, School and Art Supplies Fruit and Veg Fullard’s Fruit and Veg Fruit and veg 086 1032341 Supporting People and Communities in Roscommon other Agencies the unemployed &087 6500931 craft,Roscommon office, Frances’ to support Homeware 086 8149510 in Co. Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people Household Finishing Touches Bakery Molloy’s Artisan Bakery Freshly baked breads, cakes, the 090 6625940 and communities are facing right across County Roscommonsupport. due to Covid-19. We want you to self inemployed additional admin Supporting People and Communities Roscommonincluding Sports Roscommon Sports Sports wear, workout gear 086 6091660

pastries, newspapers, groceries

Roscommon LEADER Partnership recognise the many challenges and difficulties that people

Grocery, deli, Casey’s Londis and communitiesGrocery, food, Fuel,Roscommon due to Covid-19. We want you to are facingtake rightout across County news, fuel Ticketmaster, newsagents 090 6638000 know that we are working on aOff-licence, range of community supports and measures while we are

know that we are working on a range of community supports and measures while we are extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include…

Gift

Time Pieces

Gifts and Home

Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional areas of ETL Giftware, Jewelry, Irishinart, need and working with existing similar service providers thecards county.

087 7827171

and Home 087 9678432 All activities will be carried out with strict adherence and compliance with HSE guidelines and Social Distancing Practices. Roscommon LEADER Partnership is here to help you through thisareas crisis, should you require information on any of the above or if you have a query Extending our “Meals on Wheels” Service to additional of McNeill’s Grocery, Deli, Lotto, newsagents 090 6626481 need and working withplease existing similar service us providers in theof the following numbers: on any of our existing services contact on any Extending our “Friendly Call Service” to those in isolation/living county.Western Union, Molloy’s Carry-out Off-licence, 090 6626120 extending many current services to reach the wider community. These supports include… Timothy’s Londis Grocery, Deli, Lotto, newsagents 090 6626809

Strict delivery terms apply to alcohol Telephone: 090 6630252 Tomás: 086 0460176

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

esponds’ ‘RoscommonnwilR l come to you! alone/elderly offering a friendly voice from trained volunteers.

Gail: 086 8532915 Volunteer e towInformation: Mena 086 0499394 r now th – fo Extending our supports under the volunteer information services

to existing groups andto giving advice to We are looking for all businesses in Roscommon town that programme want to getvoluntary involved contact: volunteers on how they can stay safe while volunteering during the crisis.

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

Brendan Allen – 087 2231202 president@roscommonchamber.com Cait McConn – 086 0859275 secretary@roscommonchamber.com We are currently identifying areas with gaps in service provision and working in collaboration with Government Departments and other Agencies in Co. Roscommon to support the unemployed & the self employed including additional admin support.

Thank you – and stay safe

Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

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

(please follow HSE guidelines re: Covid-19) Telephone: 090 6630252

Tomás: 086 0460176

Gail: 086 8532915

Volunteer Information: Mena 086 0499394

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Reeling in the ARCHIVES

News, views and something to amuse…

5 YEARS AGO County blotted by litter blackspots < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Illegal dumping remains a major problem throughout County Roscommon, with local councillor Eugene Murphy describing its prevalence as “utterly deplorable” and “absolutely disgraceful”. The county’s beautiful landscape is being blotted by litter blackspots in or near all major towns and in various rural areas. In some cases, countless bags of junk are being discarded at derelict or unfinished estates. In other places, bogs and secluded spots are targeted. Cllr. Murphy, of Fianna Fáil, said: “There is a lot of rubbish being dumped by passing motorists, particularly on primary and secondary roads”. (From 10 April 2015)

Collection box stolen during funeral < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Two females have been arrested in connection with the theft of a collection box during a funeral removal ceremony held in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon town on Monday evening. Sgt. Adrian Queeney, of Roscommon Garda Station, said that the donation box was part of the removal service. He added that, later that night, two females, who were aged in the mid-20s and resident in Roscommon town, were arrested. The donation box was recovered on Tuesday morning in the grounds of the church, but its contents had been removed. (From 10 April 2015)

From Paul Healy’s Week

Faced with wily Kerry opponents, the defending champions in the Colleges Football A Championship no less, this was always going to be a giantkilling bid by a CBS team whom many would have expected to have entered the B grade. CBS had already achieved massively by the time they hung their jerseys up in the Croke Park dressing rooms, but of course they wanted the dream season to end with the ultimate magical outcome and a place on the team bus for the Hogan Cup. What unfolded was a CBS masterclass as they shed just about every possible ounce of energy on Croker, the field of their young football dreams… the CBS performance, dripping in honesty, gave them every possible chance of a famous win. When Conor Shanagher goaled in that first half, it stopped Dingle in their tracks – and suddenly the pre-match script began to read more like farce than fact. CBS were level, and they were not in awe of the champions. They were not in awe of Croke Park. The Rossies roared their heroes on. Late in the game, with the CBS in touch but trailing, Shanagher had another chance; after being beautifully found in space, he seemed to half-scuff his shot and the ball trailed wide. Willie Hegarty jigged on the touchline with his head in his hands. The ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ around Croke Park were barely dying out when CBS attacked again. Shanagher was back, brandishing a new golden ticket to make most young boys’ dreams come true. Scoring goals in Croke Park? Yes, I fancy that and I’m back for more! Rising above his opponents, he fisted the ball to the net (his second goal). CBS now led by a point; we could all dare to dream.

From 2010: Anthony Scally from Mullingar was the winner of an angling competition in Boyle, with a pike weighing exactly 30 lbs. Pic courtesy of Michael Conroy.

But Dingle were calm and cute and they finished with a mini-flurry of scores. They were the best team (they won by four) and congratulations go to them on a very notable double. Some CBS players fell to the sod in tears, as their supporters ached from the wilting of the dream. (From 17 April 2015)

10 YEARS AGO Ban RTE ‘stars’ from Dáil race – Leyden < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon Fianna Fáil Senator Terry Leyden has called on the Minister for Communications to draw up a protocol that would prevent high profile RTE stars from running for the Dáil. Senator Leyden was speaking in The Seanad in the wake of the decision of George Lee to resign his Dáil seat. Senator Leyden: “I am asking the Leader if he can invite the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to come to this House to draw up protocols and procedures for those in senior positions in RTE whose salaries are paid for by taxpayers’ money. I pay my licence fee, but I am not doing so for George Lee to contest the bye-election in Dublin South”. Later, Senator Leyden said: “I want a health warning attached to those in RTE. George Lee is on €150,000. When I was elected to the House, I could not go back to my practice. George Lee can go back to RTE (now). That is the deal. I do not like hypocrisy”. (From 12 February 2010)

Castlerea duo in national finals of Eurosong

Castlerea song-writing duo Tommy Moran and

John Waters are among the five finalists in this year’s national finals of Eurosong 2010, and the winner will be decided after a Late Late Show Eurosong Special on Friday, 5th March. A jury chaired by Eurovision winner Linda Martin chose five songs from almost 300 entries received from both home and abroad. The song from the Castlerea songsmiths is entitled ‘Does heaven need much more?’ and will be performed by Leanne Moore. (From 12 February 2010)

From Frank Brandon column

It struck me during the week that the price of living in the public eye is very high indeed. This week it emerged on all the tabloids in England (and here), that firstly Posh Spice, now better known as Victoria Beckham, has bunions on her feet and secondly that when Jordan got married to her cage fighter boyfriend, he was so drunk that he didn’t know what he was doing. Now we all know Mrs. Beckham is one of the most photographed people on the planet but I cannot figure out the international importance of her having a bunion or two. (From 12 February 2010)

Knockcroghery woman is San Francisco Rose < SEAMUS DUKE

There could well be two Roscommon ladies at the 2010 Rose of Tralee finals with the news that Knockcroghery girl Roisín Hunt has been chosen as the San Francisco Rose for 2010. Roisin’s win means that she will join the Roscommon Rose Deirdre Lenehan who was chosen at the ball in Kilronan Castle a few weeks ago. Deirdre Lenehan will have to compete at the regional finals in Portlaoise in

a couple of weeks, however Roisín Hunt is through to the final in Tralee. 24-year-old Roisín Hunt is the daughter of Seamus and Dawn Hunt. Roisín went to San Francisco to work for a year last August. (From 7 May 2010)

Easter joy as U-21 team are crowned Connacht champions Cadbury’s Connacht U-21 Football Final Sligo 0-4 Roscommon 1-6 < SEAMUS DUKE

‘Never mind the quality, feel the win’ – that could well have been the battle-cry of the thousands of Roscommon fans who swarmed on to the Markievicz Park pitch after the final whistle sounded in this Connacht U-21 football final on Saturday evening last. The fact that this was a poor quality game will be quickly forgotten as the Jimmy Gacquin trained team provided the game in the county with a much-needed boost after the relegation of the senior team in the national league in recent weeks. This was a hard-fought battle which was only settled in the dying minutes when substitute Alan O’Hara bundled the ball into the Sligo net. Roscommon: Darren O’Malley; Jack Sharkey, Neil Collins, Michael Higgins; James McKeague, Niall Daly, Eamonn Bannon; Niall Carty, Kevin Higgins (0-2); Paul Garvey (01), Cathal Shine, Brian Murtagh; Niall Kilroy (0-1), Donie Shine (0-2), Darren McDermott. Subs: Eamonn Kenny for Murtagh, Paul O’Grady for Sharkey, Alan O’Hara (1-0) for Kilroy. (From 9 April 2010)

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople Who’s saying what on Tweet Street ... Who’s saying what on TWEET STREET… Paul Healy’s take on top tweets! Paul Howard @AkaPaulHoward Taking my frustration out on the garden while my neighbour @PhilCawley DJs an 80s set just for us. He just played Toto’s ‘Africa’ while I moved thirty bags of bark mulch. What a legend to have as a neighbour. We will all get through this. – The Ross O’Carroll-Kelly author took some ‘gardening leave’ at the weekend…and revealed that he lives on celebrity street! Rebecca Winckworth @RWinckworth The best Late Late performance I have ever seen. Just magnificent. – LLS viewers were raving about the performance of Hozier on the show… Miriam Kennedy @Miriam_Kennedy There’s something about an Irish lament that just gets into your bones. Good man Hozier. You captured the emotion of the entire island. – This tweeter was another who was deeply moved by Hozier Matt Forde @mattforde “It’s a moveable date, it’s not like Easter” says Michael Gove, naming a moveable feast – The UK comedian scores against the silver-tongued Tory minister!

Michael O’Regan @Michael_O_Regan Any chance, RTE, of showing The Riordans again, even Glenroe? You can pass on Quicksilver! – The veteran political commentator and busy tweeter tests the public mood…we’re camped at home, but are we really ready for re-runs of The Riordans? Peter Hitchens @ClarkeMicah Two hours and still no answer to this from… @PiersMorgan who tomorrow morning will be bumptiously posing as Mr omniscient. British news and current affairs broadcasting at the moment is a flabby tragedy, almost bereft of real debate. – The ever so slightly smug journalist/ columnist taunts Piers Morgan

Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump I am a great friend and admirer of the Queen & the United Kingdom. It was reported that Harry and Meghan, who left the Kingdom, would reside permanently in Canada. Now they have left Canada for the U.S. however, the U.S. will not pay for their security protection. They must pay! – If the boss of the world ain’t paying for that wall between the United States and Mexico (anyone? anyone?) he sure ain’t paying for Harry and Meghan’s security! Meanwhile, the Queen’s thinking: Eh… great friend?

@PiersMorgan Hi Peter, rather than hurl petty insults from your basement, why don’t you come on @GMB tomorrow & debate it with me in front of millions of viewers? – The ever so slightly smug Piers responds (cleverly!)

Madden’s Meats Main Street – Roscommon

Mobile: 087 238 5370

Open Usual Business Hours, Please Ring/ text or WhatsApp orders and they will be dropped to your car ‘Roscommon Responds’ iniative will be used only for people who need it Keep safe everyone. Wishing all healthcare workers and all frontline staff all the best from Tom and the team at Madden Meats

Peter Hitchens @ClarkeMicah Yes why not? I do not have a basement. – The ‘debate’ continues, with a twist: (1) Peter would be happy to sit across from Piers in studio; (2) Peter has no basement

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Roscommon MABS – we are here to help you deal with your finances during this pandemic The state funded Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), which has an office in Roscommon issued some helpful advice to assist the readers of the Roscommon People. MABS has advised the public to check their budget based on a reduced level of income and reprioritise expenditure in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Rosaleen Maher, Regional Manager of South Connacht MABS said, “Take up the payment breaks being offered by the banks or utility companies. Contact MABS to get help with budgets and planning and for intervention on behalf of those who do not feel they can contact their bank or lender themselves’’. “Even though we cannot meet people face to face right now, there is a lot that can be done during a telephone appointment or by email. And in the months ahead, as we return to normal, we will open up our offices and prioritise meetings with those

who are in most in need – just as we always have.” “Many people have been temporarily made redundant already, so the financial implications of Covid-19 are already huge. MABS staff know that a financial crisis is coming, hand in hand with the Covid-19 crisis, and they are prepared to assist and support clients in need,” Rosaleen said.

When asked if there has been an increase in people contacting MABS locally Rosaleen replied, “What we are already seeing is the impact of the sudden closure of businesses and the subsequent loss of jobs. At the moment, the increase in queries is a request for information and intervention with the banks. In the months to come it will be dealing with unpaid electricity bills, unpaid

rent or mortgages, an inability to return to the levels of income people once had.” MABS has the latest information about the Covid-19 protections agreed with the main banks and how to go about applying for these. MABS has already steered the public through difficult times. In 2008, the country faced an unprecedented financial crisis and MABS offered

intervention for people, in debt due to unemployment, facing repossession of their homes. This developed into the Abhaile scheme and the appointment of Dedicated Mortgage Arrears advisors in MABS working on behalf of clients in deep mortgage arrears, supporting them in the courts, and negotiating restructures and write downs. MABS staff also became qualified Approved Intermediaries so that they could offer Debt Relief Notices through the Insolvency Service of Ireland to get unsecured debts written off for eligible low income clients If you have queries and concerns about financial difficulties, about falling into arrears with loans, mortgages or rent, make sure to contact your local MABS office on 0761 07 2720 or by email Roscommon@mabs.ie

Contact: MABS office on 0761 07 2720 or by email Roscommon@mabs.ie PLEASE DO NOT VISIT OUR OFFICE

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

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

WORKING HARD FOR YOU

CLAIRE

KERRANE TD

KEEP UP TO DATE ON

COVID-19

INFORMATION

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

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

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

Well-to-do farmers patronised the ‘Old Store’ on fair and market days Before his death in 1953, George N. Geraghty wrote extensively about his memories of life in Roscommon Town (and environs) in the early years of the 20th century…the Roscommon People is pleased to serialise these fascinating memories The principal merchants The principal merchants were Pat Burke, the Corner House – now owned by M. Donnelly (corner of Church Street and Abbey Street). Also Pat Hannon, Egg merchant, the business still carried on by his daughterin-law, Mrs. S. Hannon, his son Charlie in Church Street and his son Christie in Castle Street. John McNamara, now carried on by Mrs. McNamara and her daughter Mrs. JJ Doorly. Thomas Grealy, now ‘Grealy’s Hotel’, with Mrs. Grealy and her son Tommie providing good fare for all weary travellers. Before the hotel was built, Dan Harrison owned a boot shop on the corner. It was a two-storey thatched house. It was destroyed by fire. T. Grealy got possession of the site and had the present hotel erected. Mr. Mulvaney prepared the plans and the Geraghty brothers carried out the work of building it. Mrs. Kilroe and her son Paddy had a pork butcher’s shop on the opposite corner. Mr E. Campbell is in possession of it now. Davy Garrick had a public house in Goff St. opposite the Athlone road, and James Feeley had one on the Athlone road. He was a noted buyer and exporter of sheep. Most of the houses of Athlone road and Goff Street (now St. Vincent’s Street) were little thatched cabins. Pat Croghan, the blacksmith, kept his forge on the corner where Miss Grogan is living now. Farrell McDonnell’s was a noted general business house situated where Mr P. Fleming, chemist, and Mr E. Farrell, grocer, are living at present. You could purchase any article in McDonnell’s except clothing and boots. Edward P. Murray’s, known as EP’s, was a very select grocery shop. In the yard, there was what was called ‘the Old Store’, and here was kept a very crude bar. There were empty barrels and empty mineral cases for seats, but all around were large casks of fine old whiskey, and casks of choice Port and Sherry wine. The well-to-do farmers patronised the ‘Old Store’ on fair and market days, all praising Murray’s good drinks. George Fannon kept a grocery and bar opposite Murray’s, and Wil-

ROSCOMMON AS IT WAS ~ George N Geraghty ~

George Geraghty. Photo courtesy of Albert Siggins/‘They Put The Flag A-Flyin’’ (book)

liam Pridie had a drapery shop. James O’Connor came into possession when Pridie gave up the business, and it is still carrying on in the O’Connor name. Mrs. Bean and her two sons had a drapery shop next to M. Finlay’s. Larry M. Hynes had a very good hardware and seed shop opposite. The late H. Flynn took over the business when Hynes gave up. Tomas Tumulty had a hotel and livery stables on the premises now owned by Mrs. James Harlow, and P.C. Mitchell had a hotel where Dr. Kilmartin is living now. Owen J. Donnellan had a gents’ outfitters shop, now Mrs. McCrann’s café. Next door, Michal Noud had a fine drapery shop, and beside Noud was another drapers known

as ‘The Scotch House’ and owned by Mr. William Crosbie (now Miss Garahan’s). Crosbie’s was noted for special ladies dress materials. They were Presbyterian and earned a great name for honesty and fair dealings with customers. Mrs. John McCourt next door kept a grocery and bar, it was called ‘The Widow’s’. George, her son, is still there and improving the business. Then, beside ‘The Widow’s’, was Henry McCourt’s bar and grocery. His shop was known as ‘Old Stocks’; whiskey was cheap in those days (five pence per glass) and ‘Old Stocks’ was famous for hot punch on fair and market days. More merchants Mr. Russell had a bakery where Mrs. HI McCourt has the cinema now, and between there and JC Doorly’s corner there lived a tobacconist named Ned McDermott. His shop was called ‘the Black Mans’ and over the door hung a picture of a black man smoking a long clay pipe; in those days, Knockcroghery was the home of clay pipe making. Then we come to JC Doorly’s corner shop, still going strong under the supervision of the eldest son John Joe Doorly. Opposite JC’s was John Jones Hardware and general timber and seed merchant – leather, iron, coal, etc. Miss Conniffe had a bookshop and also sold toys and newspapers where Mr I. Dowdall has his boot store now. Joseph O’Neill had a fine grocery with bar and bakery in Castle Street. Mr T Hannick is carrying on there now. Then we had the Connors’ in Castle Street – Luke Connor and his son Pat – also a grocers and bar. Royal Hotel At that time, the Royal Hotel, owned by Jimmie Flynn, was what you might call the ‘hub’ of Roscommon town, as attached to it was the ‘Ballroom’, which was the only available place in town where concerts or plays could be held. You entered through a narrow door and went through a long passage, at the end of which was a stairs leading to the Ballroom. The fixtures in the room were very crude – a few chairs in front near the stage, and the other seating in rough forms, with a gallery at the back constructed of rough planks. Travelling Dramatic Co. visited the town three or four times a year, and all the wealthy folk in and around the town attended the performances. Carriages and pairs would be lined up from the Ballroom to the market square. The ladies wore evening dresses and the men claw hammer coats and tall silk hats. The Bellman John Henry, known as ‘Punch’, was doorkeeper at the Ballroom; he was also the billposter.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Miriam’s

MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Gardaí right to take action in response to repulsive behaviour Snowflakes need to cop on! Our Gardaí are heroically policing this pervasive pandemic, (God I’m on fire with the alliteration this week), and our heartfelt thanks go out to each and every single one of them working to keep both our beautiful County Roscommon and our country safe. However, given the extraordinary amount of anti-social and repulsive behaviour currently being displayed by some contemptuous individuals, it has been reported that the force has been compelled to order ‘16,000 spit hoods, which cover the entire face of the detainee and stops them spitting at, coughing on or biting officers’. Now, as expressions of shock and horror are being bandied about by some in the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, who reckon such devices are ‘humiliating and potentially

Telephone:

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

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

dangerous,’ my response would be…so is contracting Covid-19 folks! Gardaí, emergency personnel, healthcare workers and senior citizens are allegedly being spat at and coughed on by morons claiming to have coronavirus, and, in this instance, during this national health emergency situation, I’d fully support any and all measures that are deemed necessary. Indeed, I’d go so far as to

say the decision to implement these ‘spit hoods’ has been justifiably taken by our Gardaí, who, in a further attempt to keep the peace and keep us all safe, clearly felt they had no other choice. So, when I read reports that spokesperson for the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, Doireann Ansbro, has complained over the Gardaí’s attempt to curtail this abhorrent behaviour, my reaction is this…if Drew Har-

ris wants your opinion, I’m sure he’ll politely ask you to fill out the necessary forms! In the meantime, why don’t all you snowflakes who are more worried about the rights of criminal deviants being breached as opposed to the rights of law-abiding citizens and the Gardaí protecting us, hide in your wardrobes, and pray for the day someone opens the door and welcomes you to Narnia!

Jolene, I’m begging of you please …come and take my man! We’re well into the ‘delay’ stage of this Covid-19 pandemic, an emergency situation that’s led our country into uncharted territory. And, as our collective approach to this catastrophic health crisis escalates, in order to reduce the impact on our communities, we’ve all been asked to remain at home until 12th of April. However, as myself and himself have been sociallyisolating at home since St. Patrick’s Day, only venturing out for essential items and work, I’m now urgently begging Jolene to please, please, for the love of God woman, come and take my man!!

Councillor JOE MURPHY

But seriously folks, while staying at home is a small ask, given the unthinkable alternative, and with the preservation of life being our priority, can I please remind readers to stay in touch with each other, and crucially, to stay in touch with your senior, and/or vulnerable neighbours. Our community Gardaí are doing an amazing job, going above and beyond to help vulnerable members of our communities. They’re doing food shopping, collecting prescriptions, walking dogs, changing tyres, delivering hot meals and electricity top-ups, checking the level of oil in tanks, and ferrying people to

hospital appointments, etc. This is community policing at its very finest, and we at the Roscommon People salute our selfless lads and ladies in blue. We’ve all seen the touching images of our Gardaí helping out when and where necessary, and, as they’re anxious to get their ‘If you need assistance, remember An Garda Siochána is here to help’ message across, can I remind all Rossies who may need help to pick up the phone and call your local station. Don’t know the number? Don’t worry, dial 999, HQ will get it for you. So remember, in light of An Taoiseach’s new package of

measures regarding restrictions around all non-essential trips, banning them for two weeks, I’m urging readers to stay home, stay safe, stay smiling and stay in touch with loved ones…even the pain in the neck ones, sure they may appreciate a call!

Here’s a thought readers… Now that Leo has given Gardaí the power to break up groups…can I ask them to please start with U2, Aslan, Boyzone and Westlife? Thanks!

Waldron ANTHONY Cllr.

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

086 7866774 Always ready to help! We will survive this too shall pass! Please have your Eircode to hand

Cllr. Liam Callaghan Don’t feel isolated, contact Roscommon Community Forum helpline 1800 200 727 or contact me personally on 086 3325839

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Syria-based soldiers run marathon for Hospice

Flying the flag: Four Roscommon soldiers (and GAA men) on duty in Syria: Pte. Dylan Colgan (Clann na nGael), Pte. Gary Reynolds (St. Joseph’s), Cpl. Niall Kilcrann (Kilglass Gaels) and Lt. Colonel Ollie Dwyer (Oran).

Pte. Gary Reynolds pictured running the marathon. (Kit sponsored by Service Matters, Roscommon).

A group of 20 Irish soldiers who are currently based in Syria – including three from County Roscommon – recently ran the Jerusalem Marathon (in camp) in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. The soldiers, members of the 60th Infantry Group, are serving with the UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force). While the event itself was called off due to Covid-19 restrictions, the soldiers ran the gruelling marathon in their camp. They had engaged in many months’ of intensive training in testing conditions. The three Roscommon soldiers who undertook and completed the project are Pte. Dylan Colgan, Pte. Gary Reynolds and Cpl. Niall Kilcrann. The soldiers chose the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice because it is a charity which is close to the hearts of many of them (and their families). They have received great support in terms of donations (details of the sum raised will be published at a later date). The soldiers wish to thank everyone

who has supported this fundraiser to date. They said: “We have been humbled by the support, which as everybody knows is for such a worthy cause. The Mayo/Roscommon Hospice does fantastic work. “We hope that by running this marathon we are in some small way helping those who are facing far more difficult challenges in their daily lives”. * People can continue to donate up to the end of May. (See details on www. hospice.ie).

Irish soldiers who are serving in Syria fly the Roscommon flag in honour of the late Conor Connelly.

POLITICAL PEOPLE

Murphy ‘thrilled’ at quick Oireachtas return < PAUL HEALY

Senator Eugene Murphy

Eugene Murphy, fresh from being elected to Seanad Éireann on Wednesday, says it is important that a new government is formed as quickly as possible so that the “massive job of work” involved in dealing with the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic can begin. Senator Murphy, who lost his Dáil seat in February, said that he was “thrilled” to have been elected to the Seanad. He said he had been

on a political rollercoaster in recent months. “It’s no secret that I was devastated to lose in the recent General Election…not for reasons of finance or ego, but because we had worked so hard for the previous four years. It’s clear that the strategy (Fianna Fáil running two candidates) didn’t work, and it’s just great to be back now in the Oireachtas”. Senator Murphy said that his family had been inundated with calls congratulating him on his political comeback and he was now looking

forward to representing the people of Roscommon/Galway. Senator Murphy said that he is very happy with the manner in which the caretaker government and the HSE are handling the Covid-19 crisis. However, it was important that a new government be formed soon, so that the enormous challenges facing the country can be faced up to. He said that every possible support will have to be given to small businesses, people who have lost their jobs, and to the challenge of rebuilding rural towns and villages.

Biography of legendary politician Harry Boland

politician A biography of legendary South for d cte ele – d lan Bo rry Ha just Roscommon in 1918 – hasland: been published. ‘Harry Boand A Biography’ is a detailed t he dramatic account of the pare towards played in Ireland’s struggl independence. Boland’s Author Jim Maher covers his , ing Ris 6 191 the in e rol n, his work involvement with Sinn Féin, up to ctio ele l in the 1918 genera the War his time in America duringcame to he en wh nce of Independe gning for national prominence campaifreedom. h Iris for t por sup an Americ it also A revered and tragic figure,t return to uen seq sub d’s lan Bo ails det cusp of the a broken homeland on the attempts to d fate illCivil War, and his ing. Irish stop the worst from happento Harry g hin ryt eve freedom meant e everything Boland, and he was to giv . lity rea a it ke ma to try and

Murphy wins Seanad seat as Leyden and Dolan lose out Eugene Murphy has bounced back from his defeat in February’s General Election to win a seat in Seanad Éireann. However, his party colleague Cllr. Orla Leyden was unsuccessful in her bid, as was Ballinasloe-based councillor Aisling Dolan. Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fáil) ran on the Agricultural Panel, as did his fellow Roscommon/Galway Gen-

eral Election candidate, Cllr. Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael). There were 25 candidates, for 11 seats. The valid poll was 1,130,000 and the quota was 94,167. Victor Boyhan topped the poll on 89,000. Eugene Murphy polled 44,000 on the first count, with Cllr. Dolan polling 42,000. Several further counts followed, with Cllr. Dolan be-

ing eliminated on the 14th count. Eugene Murphy was elected on the 18th count (on Wednesday morning) with 94,661 votes. His success will greatly soften the blow of his defeat in the recent General Election, when the then Deputy Murphy lost out to Claire Kerrane (Sinn Féin). This electoral success means that the now Senator Eugene Murphy makes

a quick return to the Oireachtas and will serve as Roscommon’s sole member in the Senate Chamber. Cllr. Orla Leyden (Fianna Fáil) was running for the Seanad for the first time, and endeavouring to follow in the footsteps of her father, Terry, who recently retired from Seanad Éireann after over four decades in national politics.

Cllr. Leyden was running on the Labour Panel, one of 20 candidates contesting for the 11 available seats. The total valid poll was 1,133,000 and the quota was 94,417. Jerry Buttimer topped the poll with 105,000 votes. Cllr. Leyden polled 26,000, with Athlone-based councillor Aengus O’Rourke polling 47,000.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

Council road works and repairs welcomed Cllr. Marty McDermott has welcomed confirmation that a number of actions are to be taken by Roscommon County Council with regard to issues that have been raised by him on behalf of local residents. Cllr. McDermott said that flood alleviation works and resurfacing will be carried out at Drinagh, Mount Dillon. New signage has already been erected in this area recently. Road resurfacing works will be carried out at Kiltultoge, Ballymacurley, Ballinaheglish, Cllr. McDermott said, adding that there was a “dire need” for same, going back a number of years. He added that flood alleviation and resurfacing works being undertaken will also apply to the road between Oran

Cross and Clooneycolgan, and that the latter project will commence soon. And he has received a commitment that surface water on the road at Grange, Fourmilehouse will be addressed. “I’ve also made representations on behalf of residents of Mote Park with regard to measures required at the entrance to Mote Park from the main road to Athlone. “I am pleased to confirm that the Council will be dealing with issues there to do with signage and a particularly large pothole which has been of concern to local residents as there are so many motorists and residents frequenting the area. “In Roscommon Town, I want to welcome repairs carried out

on the road at Cherry Drive, after concerns were raised with me by local residents. “Finally, I also welcome the erection of lighting at Castlemanor, Roscommon. Motorists exiting Castlemanor had a restricted view of any pedestrians walking on the path there, so this new lighting is very welcome from the point of view of public safety”. Cllr. McDermott said that a number of these issues had been raised with him during the local election campaign. He expressed thanks to the various Council engineers and other staff who had attended the locations with him and said he wishes to thank Roscommon County Council for their excellent response.

Cllr. McDermott concluded his press statement by appealing to everyone in the community to adhere to HSE guidelines in relation to Covid-19 and to “stay positive and safe” and “look out for one another”.

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice

and

Market FRESH MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA TELEPHONE: 087

2299980

Please support your local shops in these difficult times

Feel free to contact me if you have any concerns Stay safe and keep your distance – please follow all HSE Guidelines

Cllr. Marty McDermott

Cllr.. PETER Cllr

KEAVENEY Stay safe – please follow all HSE Guidelines I am always available if you have any concerns or need assistance

Telephone: 087-2533098 Bushtown, Glenamaddy,Co. Galway. Email: pkeaveney@cllr.galwaycoco.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

‘Dramatic reversal in business confidence’ < FOUR OUT OR FIVE OWNERS SAY COVID-19 IS NOW BIGGEST RISK TO THEIR COMPANIES

Over 81% of business leaders in Ireland now regard Covid-19 as the biggest risk facing their organisations, and 96% of directors are ‘more pessimistic’ in respect of the Irish economy in Q1 2020 in comparison to just 24% in Q4 2019. These are just some of the stark findings of the latest quarterly Director Sentiment Monitor, for Q1 2020, conducted by the Institute of Directors (IoD) in Ireland between 18th-26th March 2020 and which highlight the challenges faced by Ireland, its business leaders, their organisations and the wider economy by the Covid-19 pandemic. Brexit and the political uncertainty after February’s General Election have been completely overtaken by the arrival of Covid-19. This impact on business continuity and the financial performance of organisations for the rest of the year are now among the chief concerns of CEOs and directors, who comprise the 3,000 strong membership of IoD Ireland. Maura Quinn, Chief Executive, the Institute of Directors (IoD) in Ireland, said: “Our latest quarterly survey brings into sharp focus the dramatic reversal in business sentiment from the last quarter of 2019 to the first quarter of 2020. “In the space of just a few months, the world as we know it has changed utterly. Business

leaders are finding themselves in unchartered waters, having to take very difficult decisions to protect the livelihoods of their staff and the immediate business continuity of their organisations in the short-term. “Down the road the very existence and sustainability of these businesses is a huge concern. Brexit and the uncertain outcome of the General Election have been sidelined for now in the face of the life-threatening arrival of Covid-19.   “We have seen the enormous human cost of sudden temporary lay-offs, redundancies, and the technological, logistical and, indeed, psychological challenges presented by the mass mobilisation of employers and employees into remote working, and all within a very tight timescale of a matter of weeks. It is to the credit of so many that their response to the crisis has, in the main, been professional, considerate, swift and efficient. “With the country in an unprecedented situation and the wider Irish economy and international markets contracting severely in the face of measures designed to contain and eliminate the enormous public health threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is a challenge unlike any other for Ireland’s business leaders”. Ms. Quinn said that she is encouraged to see the Government and many firms offering tangible support to employees and businesses “to ensure the wheels of the economy keep moving

and can, hopefully, begin recovering once the time comes”. Key findings * 81% of business leaders believe that Covid-19 is now the ‘biggest risk’ facing their organisation. This compares with the ‘effects of Brexit’ (22%), ‘political/economic uncertainty’ (21%), and ‘labour sourcing’ (20%), which were the key findings in Q4 2019. * 96% of directors are ‘more pessimistic’ in respect of the Irish economy in Q1 2020 in comparison to just 24% in Q4 2019. Just 3% are ‘more optimistic’ now, compared to 30% in Q4 2019. * 83% of business leaders rate as ‘significant’ the potential impact of Covid-19 on their organisation’s bottom line for the year 2020. Just 9% rate it as ‘marginal’ and 6% are ‘undecided’. * Just 8% of directors think the financial performance of their primary organisation will improve in 2020 compared to 60% in Q4 2019, while 78% think it will not improve in 2020, compared to just 19% in Q4 2019. * When asked, ‘What keeps you awake at night?’, 39% of business leaders said ‘business continuity’ while 39% (also) said ‘sustainability and long-term growth’.

Are you making needless extra mortgage repayments? The average Roscommon homeowner is needlessly paying an average of €1,835 in extra mortgage repayments per year by not switching lenders, the latest doddl Mortgage Switching Index has found. The spread between the highest and lowest interest rates available on the market has now grown to 2.2% or €152 per month in terms of monthly repayments for the average three-bed semi-detached mortgage in the county. This gap between repayments on the lowest mortgage rate at 2.3% and the highest at 4.5% is now 27%, meaning that some homeowners are needlessly paying twice as much interest on their mortgage at a time when switching has become easier than ever. The highest rate of repayment on the average 25 year mortgage is €725, while mortgage holders on the lowest rate are paying €572 per month. The Index is based on a new lending 90% mortgage of €130,500 drawn down on the average threebed semi-detached house value of €145,000 in Roscommon. Compiled by impartial mortgage

Maura Quinn, Chief Executive, the Institute of Directors (IoD) in Ireland

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switching experts doddl.ie, the Index highlights the differential between the lowest and highest non-discounted interest rates on the market – and the potential savings available. “Mortgage holders need to optimise their rate and terms, es-

pecially at the moment, and the impact of lower interest rates is hugely significant,” said doddl.ie Managing Director Martina Hennessy, pictured above. “Sticking with a lender who is charging you a higher rate than you can achieve on market does not make sense.

“These average savings of €1,835 per annum in Roscommon are interest savings and interest adds no value to your mortgage. “Current bank switching packages have also removed the previous deterrent of cost in switching mortgages”.

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Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

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Ballinagare Barracks destroyed in 1920

First concerted strike against RIC in Roscommon 100 years ago The Irish War of Independence, also referred to as the Black and Tan War, is presumed to have started with an ambush of an RIC guard on a cart-load of gelignite at a place called Soloheadbeg in Co. Tipperary on 21 January 1919. This was the spark that ignited the two and a half years of ambushes, assassinations, burnings and murder that took place throughout most of Ireland during that period. After Soloheadbeg, other counties followed suit and local IRA units were taking the initiative to lay ambushes, etc. to harass the crown forces. In Roscommon’s case it wasn’t until Easter 1920 that the first concerted action against the RIC took place. On Holy Saturday night/Easter Sunday morning 3rd/4th April 1920, no less than 14 RIC barracks throughout the county were destroyed by fire. The buildings, mostly rural, were vacated by the RIC earlier in a tactical exercise to move from small rural outposts to the larger and fortified barracks in the bigger towns. Ever since the early 19th century rural Ireland was policed by the Royal Irish Constabulary. The countryside was dotted with well-built two-storey stone structures to house a small force of police. They were usually located three or four miles apart. When the troubles erupted in 1919/1920, the authorities decided that those barracks were too isolated and vulnerable to attack, so the decision was made to close the rural barrack and move the force of police to the larger towns. This move left an array of these unoccupied fortresses throughout the country. Their very existence had symbolised the grip that the British authorities had on rural Ireland and now that they were vacated this presented an opportunity for the volunteers to strike at a part of the British establishment. The order for burning of the barracks was a directive from volunteer headquarters in Dublin to all brigade areas. Each brigade O/C in turn ordered all

battalion commanders to carry out the attacks to coincide with the 4th anniversary of the Easter Rising. In preparation for the attacks a consignment of petrol (containing 300 gallons) was hijacked by armed men in Roscommon town and taken out towards Kilrooskey where it was stored for the coming blitzkrieg against the vacated barracks. In the early hours of Easter Sunday morning April 4th (just one hundred years ago) the local units of the IRA set out on their mission to fire-bomb the selected buildings. In the north of the county the following barracks – Ballyfarnon, Coothall, Croghan, Ballinameen, Kilglass and Cuilliagh (near Scramogue) – were burned that morning. Kilmore barracks had been destroyed earlier and Grevisk (near Boyle) and Hillstreet were burned a few weeks later. In south Roscommon, the barracks selected for torching were Rockfield (near Donamon), Fourmilehouse, Beechwood (near Kilrooskey) – where gelignite was used to blow the end out of the building – Lecarrow, Athleague and Bealnamullia (near Athlone). In the west, the barracks’ at Tulsk, Castleplunkett and Ballintober were burned the same night. Later in the spring Cloonfad and Ballinagare barracks were set on fire. This brought the total number of barracks destroyed in the county in the first half of 1920 to nineteen. The actual torching of all the vacant police barracks may not have had a major impact on the British authorities at the time as the RIC had already left and there were no casualties incurred. But to the volunteers, the sight of a host of smouldering ruins throughout the countryside gave a sort of stimulus to the movement and especially as the events were reported on in the daily papers the next day. It was also a dramatic way to mark the 4th anniversary of the Easter Rising. – An Staraí Áitiúil

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Easter Commemoration cancelled The Co. Roscommon IRA Commemoration Committee has decided not to hold any Easter ceremonies this year. The decision was taken as a result of the unprecedented pandemic that has hit Ireland and the world in the past few weeks. This year the ceremony was due to be held at the grave of John Conroy in Ballinderry cemetery. It would

have marked the centenary of his death, which occurred on November 3 1920. Volunteer John Conroy was taken from his house in Rathconnor by RIC/Black and Tans on that fateful night and shot dead on the roadside near his home. His killing was seen as a reprisal for the Fourmilehouse Ambush

which took place three weeks earlier. John Conroy, who was 32 years old at the time, was survived by his wife and infant daughter. Today a monument marks the spot in Rathconnor where his body was found. It is hoped to hold this commemoration at another time when conditions in the country allow.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION For Sunday, 5th of April “All this has come to pass that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled,” Jesus says in today’s Gospel (see Matthew 26:56). Indeed, we have reached the climax of the liturgical year, the highest peak of salvation history, when all that has been anticipated and promised is to be fulfilled. By the close of today’s long Gospel, the work of our redemption will have been accomplished, the new covenant will be written in the blood of His broken body hanging on the cross at the place called the Skull. In His Passion, Jesus is “counted among the wicked,” as Isaiah had foretold (see Isaiah 53:12). He is revealed definitively as the Suffering Servant the prophet announced, the longawaited Messiah whose words of obedience and faith ring out in today’s First Reading and Psalm. The taunts and torments we hear in these two readings punctuate the Gospel as Jesus is beaten and mocked

(see Matthew 27:31), as His hands and feet are pierced, as enemies gamble for His clothes (see Matthew 27:35), and as His enemies dare Him to prove His divinity by saving Himself from suffering (see Matthew 27:39-44). He remains faithful to God’s will to the end, does not turn back in His trial. He gives Himself freely to His torturers, confident that, as He speaks in today’s First Reading: “The Lord God is my help…. I shall not be put to shame”. Destined to sin and death as children of Adam’s disobedience, we have been set free for holiness and life by Christ’s perfect obedience to the Father’s will (see Romans 5:12–14, 1719; Ephesians 2:2; 5:6). This is why God greatly exalted Him. This is why we have salvation in His Name. Following His example of humble obedience in the trials and crosses of our lives, we know we will never be forsaken. We know, as the centurion today, that truly this is the Son of God (see Matthew 27:54). – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

COVID-19

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

Reopening of marts for essential services welcomed The reopening of livestock marts for a limited range of essential services, while complying with Government guidelines regarding the Covid-19 outbreak, has been welcomed by TDs Michael Fitzmaurice and Marian Harkin. Agriculture Minister Michael Creed made the announcement, saying that new measures will allow the sale and purchase of animals through the livestock marts in order to support the essential business of farming. Deputy Fitzmaurice said that the decision will ease some of the pressure on farmers. The RoscommonGalway TD said: “With grass growth picking up, this is traditionally a time of year when livestock changes hands in marts. Farmers would have planned for this income stream, but no one could have predicted the impact this virus would have. “While it may not be business as usual when it comes to livestock marts, at least farmers who had planned to sell cattle or sheep at this time of year to improve cashflow can do so. “By reopening marts, even on a limited basis, farmers are being given another option to market their livestock during these uncertain times. “It should also facilitate the sale of calves and allow exports to continue, at a time when thousands of calves are being born on dairy farms across the country during the busy spring period”. Independent TD Marian Harkin said that she is pleased and relieved

to see new measures being put in place. “There is a sense of relief among the farming community right now that livestock mart management have been issued with guidance to allow them to reopen the livestock marts on a limited basis.

“While normal auction activity cannot resume for now, livestock mart managers may be able to use their systems and facilities to put in place alternative trade facilitation mechanisms, provided of course they comply with HSE guidelines on

social distancing, etc. This limited reopening of livestock marts services is an essential step in maintaining the food supply chain and it will help to relieve some of the pressure on farmers”, Deputy Harkin concluded.

Update from parish of Roscommon and Kilteevan Fr. Kevin and the priests of the parish wish to sincerely thank everyone for their support and prayers during this time of Covid-19. You can be assured you are remembered in our prayers and Masses – especially those unable to leave their homes. Parish Radio Masses will continue to be broadcast from Roscommon Church on 105.9 FM, Monday-Friday at 11 am, Saturday at 10 am and 7 pm (Vigil), and Sunday at 12.15 pm. The Parish Office is open for telephone calls (090-6626298), texts (0877903324) and emails (roscommonparish3@gmail. com) from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm Monday to Friday. Roscommon Church will remain open for individual prayer for those who may be on their daily exercise from 12 pm to 5 pm Monday-Saturday and 1 pm-5 pm on Sunday, but please observe all HSE guidelines on Covid-19. Likewise, Kilteevan Church will be open every day from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm for private prayer. Parishioners who wish to continue their weekly parish contributions can do so through Electronic Transfer. Bank details are as follows – IBAN: IE02BOFI90542411975671 BIC: BOFIIE2D. Otherwise you can retain your envelopes at home until the restrictions are lifted. Updates on church services, etc. will be posted on the parish facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/roscommonandkilteevanparish/ Once again, thank you for your support and please keep safe and well.

Dealing with Covid anxiety It is normal to feel anxious, says Patricia Blighe of the Connaught Counselling Centre… With the rapid spread of the coronavirus, the potential for large numbers of people exposed and the impact it is already having on daily life, all this is contributing to particularly high anxiety in some people. It is most important therefore to keep the mind and body calm. So how do I stay calm? During these legitimately anxious times, it is good to develop a strategy for managing anxiety that works for you, such as practicing mindfulness, meditation and yoga, and any exercise regime that is important to you. So when feeling anxious, you might ask yourself what helps me to find value in life and to be of value to others? Exploring these ideas can help you be more psychologically resilient and guide you in these times of high anxiety. Here I wish to share some background information as to why we feel stress – and give some tips on how to manage the worry of it all.

Why we feel anxious during these testing times… Our brains evolved to monitor our environment for signs of danger. Over the past two weeks or so we have been flooded with frightening messages about the risks to us. This evokes a feeling of little or no control and leaves us feeling uneasy in our relationships towards self and the ones we care about – anxiety also affects our wellness and daily routines. The stress can push our anxiety system into ‘overdrive’, making it hard to focus on anything but the virus. Being preoccupied with other thoughts works in the short-term, but eventually we need to train ourselves to stay calm during this Covid-19 outbreak, which may well be around for quite some time to come according to the experts. Steps you can take to put those feelings in perspective: Information is useful – but too much information can be unhelpful. Limit news intake to what is actually providing new information, and stick to reliable news sources. There is no benefit to watching the same news repeatedly.

Take the necessary and recommended precautions, but do not try to ‘innovate’ new ones. As with all dangers, the trick is to be ‘careful enough’. When we try to ensure 100% safety, we can often get caught up in unhelpful behaviours. Keep up daily routines, and make changes only when necessary. Maintaining regular routines is a good way to keep anxiety at bay and feel normal. Even if some changes need to be made, maintaining the overall routine is helpful. Don’t completely isolate yourself from other people. Fear of contagion can cause some people to withdraw socially, but maintaining relationships and social support are good ways to combat anxiety. Even if you are in self-quarantine or mandatory quarantine, keep up social interaction using FaceTime/Skype/WhatsApp, phone calls or text messages. Stay physically active – be outdoors if you can. Maintaining physical activity, keeping the recommended physical space apart (two metres, or 6 ft. for us of a certain vintage). Spending time in fresh air and nature can help to keep anxiety down.

Limit screen time. Too much time on the phone or computer, on social media or websites can lead to less activity and more anxiety. What would you say to someone who is feeling very anxious about the disease outbreak? It is normal to feel concern. To help you to deal with this crisis that has come upon us so quickly, talk with friends…reaching out with your hearts via phone. Be physically active, breathe and relax, and focus on the things you need to get done. If anxiety is really getting to you, consider talking with a professional. For example, if you can’t sleep, or you can’t eat (or can’t stop eating), or you can’t concentrate on anything else because of fears of illness, you may want to get help from a knowledgeable provider. The IACP Irish Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists has a list of counsellors on their website. Patricia Blighe is a Counsellor and Mindfulness Teacher based in the Connaught Counselling Centre, The Primary Care Building, Golf Links Rd., Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

NewsPeople

COVID-19

See www.roscommonpeople.ie for updates

85 deaths in Ireland from Covid-19 as of Wednesday The Health Protection Surveillance Centre reported on Wednesday that there had been 14 further deaths of patients who had been diagnosed with Covid-19 in Ireland. This brings the total number of Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland to 85. The median age of

Local TDs welcome extension of ‘fuel allowance season’

The decision to extend the fuel allowance season by four weeks has been welcomed by local TDs. On Tuesday, the Department for Employment Affairs and Social Protection announced that an extension had been granted from Friday, April 10th, until Friday, May 8th. Sligo/Leitrim Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan said: “At a time where we wish people to stay at home to stay safe, it makes perfect sense to extend the fuel season for existing eligible customers on a once-off basis, in order to ensure the most vulnerable groups are provided with additional targeted financial supports in a timely and efficient manner.” Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice said: “The decision must be welcomed. Common sense has prevailed in a time which is proving difficult for elderly people. I brought this to the attention of the minister in the Dáil last week, having received numerous calls from worried constituents.”

deaths in Ireland is 82.The Health Protection Surveillance Centre said that it had been informed of 212 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland, as of 1 pm on Wednesday, 1st of April. There are now 3,447 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in

Ireland. (These figures are up to date as of Wednesday evening). The HSE is now working to identify any contacts the patients may have had to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread.

Leyden in appeal for student accommodation refunds Fianna Fáil Councillor Orla Leyden is calling on the Government to intervene to support third level students and their families secure student accommodation refunds and rent waivers for April and May from landlords in private and public accommodation in light of the Covid-19 crisis. Third level institutions closed access to their campuses in the second week in March as part of the national response to Covid-19 and thousands of students left their student accommodation and returned home.

Cllr. Leyden: “Students are doing their best to complete course material online with the prospect of having to sit their exams online at the end of the semester. The worry of student accommodation rent is causing huge stress to students and their families. While third level campuses have closed, most landlords are insisting that accommodation that students no longer require is paid for. “Many students have lost part-time work that supported them through college and many of their parents are now unem-

ployed. Many students paid up front for accommodation after securing a loan”. Cllr. Leyden said that some students are getting calls from landlords asking for April and May rent to be paid and their families have no way of paying for it. “Students have said that it is very disheartening to have to deal with this now. Many students are helping vulnerable family and community members while trying to keep up with college work online. This is a hugely stressful period for everyone”.

Cllr. Leyden: “I have contacted the Minister for Education, Joe McHugh and Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe to ask them to intervene with landlords and support students and their families with student accommodation costs. “I have asked the Minister for Finance to look at a tax mechanism or other measures to ensure that landlords are in a position to make rent refunds where already paid and waive student accommodation rent for April and May and ensure deposits are returned”.

Kerrane slams banks over ‘outrageous’ plans to profit from Covid-19

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has accused banks of planning to profit from the Covid-19 pandemic and described their conduct as “outrageous”. She has called on the Central Bank and the Minister for Finance to step in and force banks to step up to the plate at a time of national emergency. Deputy Kerrane said: “Despite repeated promises from banks of a payment holiday for customers at a time of national emergency caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, they have refused to ensure that mortgage interest will not accrue for those who can’t make mortgage payments because of financial difficulties.“This means, for example, that people with a €200,000 mortgage will pay close to €2,000 more over the lifetime of their mortgage. “This is how banks are intending to profit out of this crisis and this is, quite frankly, outrageous”. Deputy Kerrane said that Sinn Féin wants the Central Bank and the banks called in by the Government in order to stop this. “I have been in contact with the Minister for Finance and the Central Bank in relation to this matter. “The fact that banks are already charging twice the average EU interest rates for mortgages is indicative of their attitude to customers and illustrates that banking culture has not changed”. The local TD said that the banks need to step up now and waive all interest during the period of emergency for those who have trouble paying their mortgage – “rather than shamefully trying to profit on the back of it”.

ALONE receives more than 1,100 calls to helpline over cocooning measures Organisation welcomes support of Roscommon County Council ALONE, an organisation that supports older people, received more than 1,100 calls to their Covid-19 helpline for older people on Saturday following the introduction of the cocooning measures, and is adding further staff members to answer phone calls to meet the increasing demand. ALONE has received more than 5,500 calls to their National Helpline in total, which is operating in collaboration with the Department of Health

and the HSE, and expect the daily number of phone calls to remain high as older people follow the advice of the Department of Health and stay in their homes. The organisation has welcomed the introduction of practical support phone lines for older and medically vulnerable people by Local Authorities nationwide, which will increase capacity and resources for those who are most in need. ALONE will work in collaboration with Roscommon County Council, and the ALONE National Helpline will complement Local Authority work by continuing to provide information, advice, emotional support, and provide daily telephone support to older people who would like extra

social contact at this time.The Local Authority Community Response Forum will meet in every local authority area and will consist of the HSE, the council, An Post, Community Welfare Service, An Garda Siochána, other State organisations, and community and voluntary groups, including ALONE and other age organisations. “We greatly welcome the news that Local Authorities will now provide practical supports to older and medically vulnerable people throughout this time,” said ALONE CEO Seán Moynihan. “We look forward to working closely with all Local Authorities so that together we can offer advice, support, and practical assistance to older peo-

ple and those who are among high risk groups. So far, we and our volunteers have carried out hundreds of practical support tasks to assist older people, and Local Authorities will have the ability to scale this further as demand increases. The capacity provided by the Local Authorities is both welcome and needed”. The charity also urged communities, family members and neighbours to step up and offer the vital support needed by older people at this time, and reminded older people that staying at home does not mean they will be alone. “This is an incredibly difficult time for all of us but particularly older people and especially those who live alone,” said ALONE CEO Seán

Moynihan. “We are urging family members, neighbours and communities to stay in touch with the older people they know and to provide support if needed. The majority of support provided will come from families, neighbours and communities, and their resilience and cooperation is needed now more than ever. Our message to older people is that staying at home doesn’t mean you are alone, and we are encouraging every older person to keep in contact with the people and support organisations they need throughout this time”. Contact ALONE on 0818 222 024 if you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person you know. Further information can be found on www.alone.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

PropertyPeople

FOR SALE KILLASTER, BALLINAGARE, ROSCOMMON, F45 KN81

‘Cottages in demand from Dublin and UK buyers’

3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow with Detached workshop and 3 no. outbuildings on 0.46 acre site, conveniently set within close proximity to Ballinagare Village and the N5 national primary route. Viewing comes highly recommended and immediate enquiries are advised. Guide Price: €125,000

FOR SALE KILLASTER, BALLINAGARE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F45CX29

Ivan Connaughton from Connaughton Auctioneers

Demand for cottages in need of renovation has soared over the past few weeks, outlines auctioneer Ivan Connaughton from Connaughton Auctioneers. “We have witnessed a substantial increase in demand for property in need of renovation from prospective purchasers, particularly from the United Kingdom and Dublin. I believe the current Covid-19 crisis has resulted in people living in cities and urban areas wanting to relocate to rural settings. “In the past week, we have agreed sales of two cottages to separate purchasers from the

United Kingdom. They have not viewed the properties in person but want to relocate to Ireland when the restriction of movement is lifted. The extensive range of pictures we had on the sales brochure assisted the purchasers in making their decision. This trend is set to continue so we require at least 30 cottages in all locations in the coming months for cash purchasers. “I am available to answer any questions anyone may have at the office on 090-6663700 (Mobile: 086-8985013) or by email info@connaughtonauctioneers. ie. This is an ideal opportunity

for an owner of a cottage to turn a disused building into cash. The sale process of these type of properties can be concluded within weeks as in the majority of cases no bank finance is required and many solicitors will be more focused on conveyancing in the coming months” concluded Ivan. * Contact the office for further information and to arrange an appointment on 090666 3700 or info@connaughtonauctioneers. ie. Viewings are available of properties and are guided by ongoing national and local guidelines.

Attention house owners Quality 4 bed detached bungalow set on mature site of 0.5 acres. The subject property is set in a convenient location to Ballinagare village (2km) and within close proximity to Castlerea Town. Viewing comes highly recommended and immediate enquiries are advised. Every offer in excess of €130,000 now invited.

FOR SALE DRUM, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Bungalows required in Roscommon Town by Earley’s

Following a number of successful sales in Roscommon town over the past number of weeks, Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are now urgently seeking bungalows in the general Roscommon town area for cash clients and disappointed underbidders. John Earley (FIPAV) commented: “We have experienced a very busy period of house sales over the past number of weeks with a large volume of residential properties being sold or reaching sale agreed status. “We are now seeking in particular 2, 3 & 4

bedroom bungalows in the general Castle Street, Cherry Drive, Fallon Avenue, Lanesboro Street areas for cash clients. “We offer a comprehensive pre-market analysis, valuation service and one of the largest databases of potential purchasers in the region to our clients. We advertise in all local and national media and include all our property on three main websites to include www. daft.ie, www.propertypartners.ie and www. myhome.ie”. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley (FIPAV) or David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@propertypartners. John Earley from Property Partners Earley ie.

David Diffley’s Sale of the Week – in Corraun Village

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

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION FRIDAY THE 10TH APRIL 2020 RIVERWALK, BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON, F52 E982

A traditional Two Storey Stonebuilding set on the banks of the Boyle River. A former retail unit the said property offers enormous potential given its attractive Town Centre location. Offering excellent value for money, Online bidding commences Friday the 10th of April 2020. Guide Price: €25,000

If you are considering selling, please do not hesitate to contact us, business as usual!

ROSCOMMON TOWN

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

Hazelfort development located at Lisacul Village, Co. Roscommon

John Earley’s Sale of the Week – in Lisacul village John Earley (FIPAV) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of the Hazelfort development located at Lisacul Village, Co. Roscommon for a “very satisfactory” price. John said: “This residential portfolio provided two semi-detached residences and a detached bungalow finished to various levels of completion and all standing on approx. 9 acres of lands. “Situated beside the village of Lisacul, the local national school and Church, the portfolio provided an ideal investment and generated strong market interest”.

John further commented: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. “Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact John Earley (FIPAV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) of Property Partners Earley is pleased to advise that he closed the sale of a luxury four-bedroomed detached two-storey residence of approx. 2,350 sq.ft. located at 1, Corraun Village, Racecoure Road, Roscommon town for a “very satisfactory” price. David commented: “We have experienced a very busy selling period with quality properties attracting strong interest in all areas. Due to demand, we are now seeking properties in all areas for disappointed underbidders and cash buyers. We welcome all submissions and offer a free appraisal service”. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, please contact David Diffley (MIPAV, TRV) at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie or log on to www.propertypartners.ie.

1, Corraun Village, Racecoure Road, Roscommon town

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

PropertyPeople

PROPERTY PARTNERS

ipav

EARLEY

Institute of Professional Auctioneer & Valuers

PSRA Licence No. 001481

LEADING THE WAY IN PROPERTY SALES, LETTINGS AND VALUATIONS… • Commercial properties. • Residential properties. • Agricultural lands. • Public houses. • Sites and Hotels, etc.

John Earley FIPAV, Director. 086 2551380

OUR RESULTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

WHILE OUR OFFICE IS CLOSED, WE ARE STILL AVAILABLE TO CONTACT Please call John on 086 2551380 or email: jearley@propertypartners.ie – Keep safe and well from the team at Property Partners Earley . Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie www.propertypartners.ie Tel: (090) 6626579 / 6626796 Fax: (090) 6625405

PSRA Licence: 001350

PROPERTY SALES LETTINGS VALUATIONS l

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

NEW TO THE MARKET c.4.25 ACRES AT

RATHNALULLEAGH CASTLEPLUNKETT CO. ROSCOMMON

NEW TO THE MARKET

NO.3 PAIRC CAISLEAN BALLYFORAN CO. ROSCOMMON H53RK40

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

c.37 Acres @ AGHAGOWER, CASTLECOOTE 5-year Term with Entitlements & No Water Charges Option to Lease c.30 Acres adjoining with No Entitlements

c.21.67 Acres @ BALLYGLASS, CASTLEREA

Until 1st March 2021 with Entitlements

c.11.24 Acres @ LISSALWAY, CASTLEREA

• Prime parcel of lands comprising c.4.25 Acres

• Attractive Four-Bedroom Detached Residence

• Located at end of country lane

• Located in much sought after area c.22 KM from Athlone, Roscommon & Ballinasloe

• Unrivalled views of the surrounding countryside

• Ideal starter home, ready for occupancy

• Huge potential for site (Subject to Planning)

• Viewing highly recommended

• Offers invited for immediate sale, call 090-6663700

• For further details, call office on 090-6663700

Until 1st March 2021 with Entitlements Enquiries on All Parcels to 090-6663700

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

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

Classifieds

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

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

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

Tel: 01 4538988 or 091 767777

CAREER ADVICE CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6630760

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

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

CHIROPODIST

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

Department of Health Approved

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

085 1503353 086 8538404

Email: m.kilgallon23@gmail.com

• House Visits • Insoles and Orthotics Prescribed • Chiropody Services

Clinics also in Ballaghaderreen and Castlebar

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Complete Chimney Services

Chimney Cleaning

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

• Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services. Telephone:

087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

CHIROPODIST FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Chiropody treatment and all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only –

087 2982214

Tel: Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Telephone: 086 8433433

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

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

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

VHI and Laya Covered

CHIROPODIST

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

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

PODIATRIST

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

Department of Health Approved

085 2514394

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

CONSTRUCTION Stephen Casey

Construction

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

l General Building Extensions & Roofing l Groundworks l Renovations

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

087 9268424

Lic. Ac.

Galway Road, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626023

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

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

NO FIX NO FEE

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

Reg No: EL000083

Paul McStay

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

EDT Lessons Available Telephone:

094 96 20099 Mobile:

086 8936012

This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

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

FENCING/GATES

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

l l

Tel: 087 2172281

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

087 2346364

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

ACUPUNCTURE Michael Lennon

BOOM SPRAYER TESTING SERVICE

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

CHIROPODIST Traditional Chinese Medicine

FARMING

DC Computer Services

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

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

COMPUTERS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

FARMING < A B AT TO I R S E R V I C E AVA I L A B L E : Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Tel: Webb’s Butcher’s, 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715 < ROUND BALES OF HAY AND SILAGE for sale. Can be delivered locally. Tel: 086 3776948. < FOR SALE: 12 round bales of silage. Frenchpark area. Tel: 094 9870974. < FOR SALE: Top quality round bales of silage. Curraghaboy area. Tel: 086 3488373. < FOR SALE: Round bales of well saved hay for sale in Roscommon town. Tel. 087 2965494

JOE HEALY

Tree Services

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

Phone:

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

GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on

087 2860428

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

Classifieds GARDENING

CORBETT

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

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

087 6558597 GATELY GARDENING

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

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING

Tried & Trusted Since 1993

Phone JOHN

083 8838022 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs CONTACT JOHN

086 4679798 • Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped Comprehensive Insurance Cover. I.S.A. member.

Tel: 086 6077307 or 086 8125165

www.parklawntreeservices.

WALTER BEGLEY

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

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

087 9201818

Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

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

< APARTMENT TO LET 1 bedromed, fully furnished apartment to let at Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 086 3120158 or 094 9620393 for details.

PEAT BEDDING

Pete’s Cabs Roscommon

– Contact –

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

PEAT BEDDING AVAILABLE Tel: Donal

PAINTER & DECORATOR

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

086 2721812 (All areas)

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

PHONE:

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

Phone Alan on: BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

or Mobile:

087 2683079 FOR ALL YOUR PAINTING & DECORATING NEEDS Internal & External Powerwashing, window, gutters cleaning etc. And all about the home and garden maintainance QUALITY PROMPT WORK GUARANTEED.

Contact Seamus Donoghue

086 8368031 PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

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

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

< THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned firewood only €2 per bag • Bags of turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • Tonne bags firewood/turf €35 per bay, or buy tonne firewood + tonne turf + 2 bags coal 20kg all for €80 delivered. • Stove coal 40kg bags only €14, buy 10 bags get 1 20kg bag coal free. • 8x4 trailer load firewood only €90. All includes free delivery. Contact Tom: 086 2628439 APRIL SPRING SALE NOW ON: Loads of 2019 shed-store screened black seasoned hopper turf. Can be delivered in various loads. Call: 087 7462440.

TO LET: Large, dry turf bank to let. Suitable for 75 skips of turf. 8 sods wide x 100 yards. Donamon area. Tel. 087 9962361.

087 2727888

086 2670670

090 6661635

TURF/FUEL/ FIREWOOD

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

(086) 2714879

Tom Kilduff Cabs Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

MARQUEE HIRE Manor Marquee Hire Now taking bookings for 2020

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

manormarquees@ gmail.com

USEFUL SERVICES

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

USEFUL SERVICES

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINE, REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207 www.appliance-repairs.ie Do you have a house or shed that you want cleaned out and all unwanted items removed? If so ring: 087 9657933 or 090 6626752 < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel: Tom on 086 0815802

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

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

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

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

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

087 7957190 www.virtualpa.ie

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

Every office needs an angel at some time

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

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

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

PLANNINGS

Morris Lohan

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

www.morrislohan.ie

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

086 3482387 info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

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

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

Classifieds PERSON WANTED CHILDMINDER REQUIRED

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

FAMILYNOTICES

Submit your Classified online

Kind reliable lady required to look after three children, 9, 6 and 3 years in children’s own home, Roscommon area, two weekends a month! Fluent English essential. Tel. 087 7563196.

PERSON WANTED to repair exisiting electric fence around farm

Tel: 087 4162251 < CLEANER REQUIRED: Good quality cleaning and hoovering expected. Must be reliable and honest. Tel: 089 2158395.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission is sought for alterations of house type of previously approved Reg. Ref. 15102 from storey and half type dwelling to part single & part storey and half type dwelling with minor site alterations at Gardentown Td., Ballyleague, Co Roscommon for Michael Henry & Cliodhna Thompson

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@rosommonpeople.ie

Ros Memorials

or alternatively call 090 66 34633 or 086 8054227

Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

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

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

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

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

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during it’s Public Opening Hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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 086 8054227

Signed: Sweeney Architects & Conservation Architects MRIAI ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Donnacha Anhold, intend to apply for permission for development at Rushfield House and Stables, Tullyvohaun, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of an indoor horse training arena with balcony at one end, a horse walker, an outdoor horse training arena and ancillary floodlighting, change of use of an old two storey Coachhouse from farm buildings to living accommodation including refurbishment of the building and the provision of a packaged waste-water treatment system and polishing filter, the demolition of cattle cubical sheds and underground cubicle tanks and all associated and ancillary site works.

Notice re. Memoriams and Anniversaries

(Dromod)

or by post, along with your name and contact details, to

In conjunction with Cox’s Funeral Directors (Rooskey) Serving the people of Dromod, Rooskey and surrounding areas for the past 35 years

Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Full range of coffins, caskets etc. in stock, together with our personally owned fleet of funeral vehicles

For further information contact

086-2561023/087-2318176 or 085-8643968

Visit our website www.mcgowanfuneraldirectors.ie

Don’t worry if you do not have a credit card. We value your business over the years and will make arrangements for payment at a later stage.

Love’s Greatest Gift - Remembrance

MEMORIAL CARDS Individually Designed and Printed

Email or call for Sample Pack

The local paper!

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

Classifieds

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DUKE Eileen

HENSEY Sean

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon (4th Anniversary) Who passed away on the 1st April 2016 and her beloved husband Seamus who passed away on 22nd May 1971

Weekfield, Roscommon and formerly Kinnitty, Co. Offaly (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of Sean, husband, dad and grandfather, who passed on April 6th, 2018.

MURRAY Séamus Lisphelim, Knockcroghery & Galway Road, Co. Roscommon. (32nd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Séamus, who died on 30th March 1988 “Ag Chriost an Siol Ag Chriost an Fomhair In Iothlainn De Go Gastar Sinn”

Always loved and sadly missed by Seamus, Frank, Declan, Mairead and Deirdre, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, other family members and friends. Masses offered.

HIGGINS Rosaleen Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) who died 6th April

In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweetly tender, fond and true, There is not a day, dear Rosaleen That we do not think of you.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Des and family.

COONEY Sean Cruby Hill, Galway Road, Roscommon and Clonee, Co. Dublin (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Sean Cooney, who died 5th April 2014, R.I.P. Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss you most of all.

Always remembered by his loving family.

One day we will meet again But only when the time is right When we step out of the darkness You will be standing in the light Always remembered and sadly missed by his wife Elizabeth, daughter Carmel and grandsons Dominic and Luke. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Saturday April 4th at 7pm.

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

May the winds of love blow softly, And whisper for you to hear, That we still love and miss you, As it dawns another year. Those special days will not return, When we were all together, But the love you placed within Our hearts, Will stay with us forever.

Remembered dearly by Phil and Fiona. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ In memory of a wonderful brother As kids, we lived together We fought, we laughed, we cried. We did not always show the love, That we both had inside. We shared our dreams and plans, and some secrets too. All the memories we share is what bonds me to you. We grew to find we had a love That is very strong today It’s a love shared by our family, that will never fade away. You are my brother not by choice, but by the nature of our birth I could not have chosen a better one, You were the best on earth.

Remembered fondly by your sister, Geraldine.

MULRY Tom (Thomas) Jamestown, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary) Who passed away on 3rd April 2019

On the First Anniversary of Tom’s passing, we the family, would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us after his death, called to our home, attended his removal, funeral mass and burial. Thank you to those that travelled long and short distances to be with us and to those that phoned or sent cards, enrolments, letters and messages of sympathy. To the ambulance service, medical, nursing and pastoral teams and all the staff of Portiuncula Hospital who took care of Tom in his final days and hours, we thank you. We would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to G.P Dr Martin Daly (Ballygar) and his team, who so diligently took care of Tom’s medical needs for many years. To all of his carers, particularly Frank, Linda and Martina who among others have been a fantastic support to both Tom and his family over the past few years, we are forever grateful. Also, thank you to the staff of Johnson’s Pharmacy (Ballygar) and Hynes’s Pharmacy (Roscommon) for your help and advice as we cared for Tom. A sincere word of thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne P.P for his numerous visits to Tom over the years; for his support to the family through such a difficult time and for the lovely funeral mass and burial for Tom. Also; a heartfelt thank you to Joe, Eucharistic Minister, who visited Tom with Holy Communion every Sunday morning. Thank you to the servers, musicians and all who participated in Tom’s funeral mass and to the grave-diggers that prepared Tom’s final resting place with such dignity. A special Thank You to Dempsey’s Funeral Directors (Ballyforan) for their sensitive and professional handling of the funeral arrangements. To Fallon’s Bar (Ballygar) and Hannon’s Hotel (Roscommon) for providing the refreshments, thank you. Finally, we would like to say a very heartfelt and sincere thank you to all of our neighbours and friends who have visited Tom in his home and supported Tom and his family in many ways over the years, particularly in the days and weeks following his passing. The practical ways in which you have helped and assisted us, not just through this difficult time but for many years before Tom’s passing, are very much appreciated. We are forever grateful. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our sincere gratitude to each and every one of you. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Due to the current situation, Tom’s First Anniversary Mass will be said in private with a public mass to be said at a later date. ------------------------------------------------------A silent thought, a silent tear, A constant wish that you were here. --------------------------------------------------------Sadly missed by your brother (Larry), sister (Bridget), son, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends near and far.

FAMILY NOTICES • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Mobile: (086) 8054227 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

O’GRADY Margaret (Gretta) Doorty, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Who died 12th April 2014 (6th Anniversary)

She was a Mother so very rare, Content in her home and always there, On earth she toiled, In Heaven she rests, God bless you Mother you were one of the best.

Sadly missed by her loving family. Masses offered.

HYNES Peter Joseph (P.J.) Jamestown Hill, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

SHANNON Philomena 10 The Spinney, Abbeytown (5th Anniversary)

R.I.P.

Your life was love and labour, Your love was your family true, You did your best for all of us, We will always remember you.

Always loved and remembered by your husband Tony, sons Anthony and Paul and extended family. ----------------------Will those who think of her today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Sadly missed by your sister Marie Healy, nieces and nephews. Anniversary Mass at 10am on Saturday, 4th April in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

COYLE Maureen

Cherished memories of a wonderful husband who passed away on the 5th April 2018 It’s sad to walk the road alone, Instead of side by side, But to all there comes a time When the ways of life divide My loving thoughts of you dear P.J. end not in memories that pass, On Mary’s beades I plead your needs, And in the Holy Mass.

Forever loved and remembered by your wife Maureen.

~~~~~~~~~~~ Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time can take them away

Remembered by your sisters, brother, sisters-inlaw, brothers-in-law and their families. May he Rest In Peace

Mass will be celebrated at a later date.

Gailey, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 4th April 2014 (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my wife Maureen I hold you close within my heart And there you shall remain To walk with me throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Sadly missed by your loving husband Eugene. Rest in Peace

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Tired and weary you battled on. Until at last your strength was gone. And God alone knew what was best, He granted you eternal rest.

Sadly missed by her sisters Eileen, Kathleen and brother John. Masses offered.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED

WINDOWS/DOORS

Chimney Problems

SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

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

Cathal Dooley 087 6579064

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

BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

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

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

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

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

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSTALLATION

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

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

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

Contact David Martin on 087 9959417

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

Tel: 090

6621220

LOCKSMITH

Springfield, Williamstown, Co. Galway Window restrictors l Burglary repairs l Window locks l Cylinder replacement l Hinge replacement l Glass replacement l Lock replacement l Window and door seals l Window and door handles supplied and fitted l Aluminium and uPVC doors and windows repaired.

Te l : 0 8 5 2 1 9 1 2 3 4 08383

FARMING

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

RECYCLING

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY AFTER HOURS/24 HOUR EMERGENCY

087 2596055

REPAIRS & SERVICING ALSO CARRIED OUT

PLEASE FOLLOW OUR NEW GUIDELINES WHEN VISITING OUR CLINIC – We are only taking appointments for essential treatment and emergencies.

Contact Pat Hanley on

086 6002721

to discuss your requirements

Email: pjmhanley@gmail.com

Call John 087 610 8499

M: 086 3912396 Ph: 090 66 62892

LANESBORO STREET, ROSCOMON Tel: 090 662 6898

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

Prompt Service | Keen Rates | Fully Insured

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

Lowest price guaranteed

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

Domestic & Commercial

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

DOOR & WINDOW SERVICE

Chasing / Core Drilling Service

Cleaning Services • Roscommon

email: chrislocksmith.162@gmail.com

WINDOW AND DOOR SERVICE

DRILLING SERVICE

S tephen H oare

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

Chris’s Locksmith Service

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

CLEANING

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

You must call in advance to order repeat prescriptions/flea worm treatments/food. Ring us from your car when you arrive for collection of your order/appointment. We ask that all payments be made by card only and encourage payment over the phone when ordering medication/food. When in the YARD all customers must leave at lease 2m distance between themselves, other customers and members of staff at all times due to social distancing guidelines.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

SPORTS PEOPLE with PAUL HEALY We’ll always smile when we think of Conor C onor Connelly had an impish grin, and a friendly demeanour…and what a footballer he was. The death of any young person is so sad, and our hearts go out to his wife, children, parents, brothers and sister and extended families. When the word went around on Saturday of Conor’s shock and untimely death, it numbed a community already at a low ebb in these grim, Covid-19 dominated times.

While he was living in Offaly, where the tributes paid to him have been so touching, he is one of ours…native of Creggs, a sporting star in his parish and with Roscommon. His death at just 44 rocked his community in Creggs, and the entire Roscommon GAA family. Midst the shock and grief in these parts, there was something deeply touching about the response of people, with Roscommon flags flown in honour of Conor

from numerous local homes and clubhouses. A poignant salute…a grieving community standing with Conor and his family. A flying bundle of energy

As a Gaelic footballer, he really did stand out. He always seemed to be ‘in motion’. I remember him soloing at pace, or releasing a beautifully judged pass. He could take your breath away…all-action, a flying bundle of energy. He was fiercely determined, frequently decisively influencing matches

when the outcome was in the balance…as leaders do. 2001 was special, that great Connacht campaign of a swashbuckling Roscommon team ending with them crowned as champions. They will be forever bonded by that march to glory, in our name. When I met Conor a few weeks ago at an event in Roscommon, it brought back memories of him marauding up that Hyde Park field of dreams. I can see him speeding

along the grass, opponents left to grasp at what was no longer there. All these years on, the words ‘Conor Connelly’ evoke memories of that exciting team, of passion, pace, pride. We cannot think of him in the future without smiling. It is the saddest of news. The people of Creggs and all of County Roscommon are in solidarity with the Connelly and Quinn families, to whom deepest sympathy is extended. May he rest in peace.

Screen and heard… On Off The Ball on Newstalk, John Giles selected his best ever Liverpool team (1960 to the present day), with other clubs to be included in the series (running every Thursday). Giles largely snubbed the current Liverpool players (“they may be included if I’m doing this again in five years’ time”). Not unreasonably, there are no Irish men in his top eleven. That’s no Mark Lawrenson, Jim Beglin, Ronnie Whelan, John Aldridge or Steve Heighway! Not surprising I suppose when you’ve a midfield (as chosen by Giles) of John Barnes, Graeme Souness and Steven Gerrard. Up front, there was no place for Suarez, Owen, Fowler or Toshack…the mouth-watering selection being Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush and Kevin Keegan. (Defence: Clemence, Robertson, Van Dijk, Hansen, Smith). On Sky, I saw a repeat of John Bishop’s Tour of Ireland, which included the very likeable Liverpool comedian attending the 2017 All-Ireland Football final between Dublin and Mayo. Bishop, who has a real affinity with Ireland, was suitably enthralled. “You need to thank the English for Gaelic Football” he later teased a stand-up audience, “only a country that had been through 800 years of oppression could come up with a sport like that!” Meanwhile, I stuck with the Match of the Day team’s podcast programme (every Saturday night). Last week I vented my frustration at Alan Shearer placing Roy Keane a mere 4th (later upgraded to 2nd) in the all-time Premier League captains’ charts. Last weekend, Gary Lineker, Ian Wright and Shearer picked their top ten ever Premier League goalscorers. Lineker and Wright both went for Thierry Henry. Shearer? He modestly put himself at No. 1! Finally, GAA-starved viewers will have welcomed RTE’s rescreening (on Monday night) of ‘Jayo’, the excellent documentary on Dublin star Jason Sherlock. A fine programme about a very impressive man.

‘The Choice’, by Dublin footballer Philly McMahon

Richard Moore’s ‘The Dirtiest Race in History

‘King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of the American Hero’ (by David Remnick)

Some great sports books to take your mind off…IT In this extraordinary (and hopefully short-lived) period of people distancing/staying at home, sports fans may have the inclination and time to catch up on some reading… Hopefully there are some unread books lying around your house, or you may get a chance to buy one or two locally or online. After having a browse in our bookcase at home, I have a few recommendations here…with more to follow over the coming weeks. First up, a couple which I haven’t actually read yet, but which were hailed by reviewers and are on my ‘to read’ list. ‘The Choice’, by Dublin footballer Philly McMahon, was published just over two years ago, to great acclaim. While McMahon is a much-decorated footballer, the book is primarily about his relationship with his

brother, whom he sadly lost in 2012. Philly’s brother John died following “a painful decade” during which he “slipped from the family circle into a deteriorating cycle of addiction”. In this striking memoir, the Dublin GAA star writes about his relationship with his brother, the impact of his addiction and subsequent tragic death, and Philly’s own journey of self-discovery. I haven’t read Paul O’Connell’s autobiography yet either, but I intend to. O’Connell comes across as an absolute warrior – with a soft side (off the pitch!). Utterly likeable, he was a force of nature during his magnificent career playing rugby for Munster, Ireland and the Lions. ‘Paul O’Connell: The Battle’ was published shortly after the Limerick man’s retirement after a great career. I have

no doubt that it’s a great read (as critics suggest). Now to a few books that I have read! Author David Peace used a very, very unique style when taking on the complex character that was Brian Clough. While Clough’s status as one of the greatest managers in the history of English soccer is based on his remarkable achievements in charge (with Peter Taylor) of Derby County and later Nottingham Forest, there will always be a particular fascination with his chaotic 44day reign as successor to Don Revie at Leeds United. In ‘The Damned Utd’ – later dramatised for TV – Peace reimagines life at Leeds during the ill-fated Clough tenure. So Peace is not portraying facts in a conventional way; he is giving his imagined version of how the actual events came about.

The same author took a similar writing approach with his epic book on Liverpool’s rise under Bill Shankly. ‘Red or Dead’ runs to over 700 pages, with Peace using the same writing technique…simple, repetitive prose that attempts to bring us deep into the mind and ethos (as imagined by Peace) of the great Shankly. It’s a remarkable piece of work. There are numerous books about timeless superstars like Muhammad Ai and George Best. I’ve read quite a few of them. ‘King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of the American Hero’ (by David Remnick) is a classic. Published many years ago, I came across it in a bookshop last year. The book brilliantly tells the story of the rise of Cassius Clay, against a background of intense racial tensions, depicting the many battles the future

Muhammad Ali had to fight – inside and outside the ring – before becoming a global superstar who “changed the worlds of sport and went on to change the world itself”. Last summer I read Richard Moore’s ‘The Dirtiest Race in History’, a superbly researched account of the bitter rivalry between Carl Lewis and Ben Johnson, which culminated in their epic showdown in the 100m final at the Seoul Olympics in 1988. Johnson ‘won’ the race in a world record time but was stripped of his title (and credibility) when he failed a drugs test. This is an excellent book which reveals how complex sport at that level is. The media depiction of Lewis as the good guy and Johnson as the face of evil was of course too simplistic. When you’ve read this captivating book, you may see both men in a different light.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

SportsPeople

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

National Hunt wipeout Fairyhouse and Punchestown Festivals cancelled On Wednesday a decision was taken by the Board of Horse Racing Ireland to end the 2019/2020 National Hunt season immediately. Punters will be very disappointed to learn that the spring festivals at Fairyhouse and Punchestown will not be rescheduled. There will be an enhanced National Hunt programme from October to December 2020 and it is intended to include in that programme the 2020 BoyleSports Irish Grand National. The Board recognised that racing would eventually restart on the

Flat only for 1 month and most likely behind closed doors, with adherence to strict social distancing protocols as were operated at ten completed race fixtures in March. General News Racing continued across the Atlantic behind closed doors and the Group 1 Florida Derby was run at Gulfstream Park on Saturday. The Barclay Tagg trained colt Tiz The Law, under Manny Franco, hit the front entering the straight and drew clear to beat Shivaree and Ete Indien by 4½l and ¾l.

The Constitution 3-Y-O is now favourite for the Kentucky Derby postponed from 2nd May until 5th September. The tracks at Santa Anita in Callfornia and Aqueduct in New York have cancelled racing including the Santa Anita Derby this Saturday which it is hoped to run later in the year. The annual McCoy Awards for national hunt racing set for Cheltenham on September 18th have been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Jockey Club have decided to cancel the event and divert the

funds associated with the award elsewhere in racing where they can be better used. A number of Irish jockeys, no names mentioned, are obviously making the best of this break, have made a submission to both the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board and HRI to have all weights increased by one stone when the sport resumes. They maintain that all leisure centres and saunas that they use are shut. Jockeys were given a 2lb allowance while racing continued behind closed doors.

Tiz The Law wins the Florida Derby

London not calling – for now

Roscommon’s 2020 Connacht Senior Football Championship opener against London has been postponed due to the Covid-19 health crisis. Roscommon were due to travel to London on May 3rd next. GAA Head of Games Administration, Feargal McGill, confirmed that the game will not go ahead as scheduled. “The London and Roscommon game was scheduled for (the weekend of) May 3rd. We have taken the decision now to cancel that game”. Explaining the relatively early call, Mr. McGill said: “That has to do with the number of Roscommon people who had planned to travel to the game and who had flight and accommodation arrangements made”. All GAA – indeed all sporting – events in Ireland are cancelled until further notice as part of the response to Covid-19.

Darts

League on hold – with all to play for As with all events countrywide, The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League has been on hold over the past number of weeks. Round 17, which was to be held on March 13th, was the first round of fixtures to be cancelled. However, in the week leading up to that date, there were two rescheduled games played. The following were the results of those Round 15 rescheduled games… Flanagan’s 5 Molly’s 4 (16 to 15 on legs) Doubles F. Hussey/B. McCormack 1-2 P. Fleming/T. Rushe; N. Ryan/J. Owens 2-1 D. Cafferky/C. Holton; D. Coyne/K. McCormick 0-1 S. Fleming/D. McHugh. Singles F. Hussey 3-0 P. Fleming, B. McCormick 3-2 T. Rushe, J. Owens 0-3 S. Fleming, S. McDonagh 1-3 D.

McHugh, D. Coyne 3-2 D. Cafferky, K. McCormick 3-0 C. Holton. Sean Fleming had 12, 13 and 19 dart legs, Francis Hussey had a 111 finish, David Cafferky had a 180, and Kieran McCormack had an 18-dart leg. McDermott’s 4 An Bothar Rua 5 (13 to 14 on legs) Doubles D. Concannon/M. Fallon 2-0 P. Beirne/Denis McDermott; G. Concannon/J. Elliffe 1-2 M. Hynes/ Daniel McDermott; T. Concannon/M. Concannon 2-0 T. Fitzgerald/G Rhattigan. Singles D. Concannon 3-2 P. Beirne, T. Concannon 3-0 Daniel McDermott, J. Elliffe 0-3 J. Sharkey, M. Fallon 0-3 G. Rhattigan, T. Concannon Senior 0-3 T. Fitzgerald, G. Concannon 2-3 M. Hynes. David Concannon, Thomas Concannon, James Sharkey and Matt

Hynes all had 180s. Thomas also had a 14-dart leg. Gary Concannon had a 157 checkout for a 15-dart leg. With the completion of those games, McDermott’s lead the league on 85 points. Following on closely are Flanagan’s (81), Cosy Bar (76) and An Bothar Rua (76), completing the top four. Next up is Molly’s (70), Holly Tree (57), Hollywood Bar (56), Dalton’s (39) and The Sideline Bar (36). Only two rounds now remain in the league format before the cup and shield semi-finals. As with all events, given the current situation, we cannot give any more information as regards how the league will proceed from here on. We wish all our players, sponsors, supporters and publicans all the best at this difficult time. For more Roscommon Darts news, photos, videos and fixtures, check www.rosdarts. com or the Roscommon Darts Facebook Page.

Sympathies from CBS

Roscommon CBS, Conor’s former school, paid tribute on Twitter: “The CBS Roscommon community are deeply saddened by the recent passing of former student Conor Connelly. “Conor was a talented student and sportsman in Gaelic Football and hurling. Sincere sympathies to his wife Claire and three young children at this most difficult time”.

Tributes on behalf of Creggs Rugby Club

Everyone in Creggs and the neighbouring parishes is shattered at the sudden death of our iconic villager, Conor Connelly. It is impossible to come to terms with the devastating news.In addition to being a superb Gaelic footballer, Conor also played rugby for Creggs from a very young age right up to senior level – and with considerable success. There is no doubt that he had all the attributes to have been a top class rugby player. His versatility allowed him to slot comfortably into any back position with aplomb. Conor just loved playing sport and we fondly remember the outstanding contribution he made at underage level in both codes. His performances for the Creggs U-16 rugby team as they marched on to win the Connacht Cup in 1992 are legendary. Then shortly afterwards, l remember him giving a virtuoso display as St. Ciaran’s U-16 footballers won the Division 2 Cup. Those performances announced Conor’s arrival as a tremendously talented player, and it was appropriate that he got the opportunity to display his great sporting talents for the Roscommon senior football team in the years ahead. To Conor’s wife Claire, and their three young children, Caragh, Rossa and Owen, his parents Jimmy and Nora, sister Sharon, brothers Robert, James, Darragh and his extended family and many friends, we convey deepest sympathy from all at Creggs Rugby Club. May he rest in peace. Sean Brandon, Secretary, Creggs Rugby Club I feel privileged to have known Conor and privileged to have played football with him. He was a brilliant family man who lived his life by the highest values. Fortunately for us, Creggs always had a very special place in his heart. He was a rock at the centre of the various clubs and communities that he served with distinction. On the playing pitch he always gave everything, never took a backward step, a fierce but fair competitor. Consequently he had many sporting successes and achievements at the highest level. The loss to his family is immeasurable. May he rest in peace. Kieran Dowd, Treasurer, Creggs Rugby Club

Conor’s inspirational speech recalled

Conor’s former Creggs’ clubmate Gerry Keegan said: “This is heartbreaking news. Conor was such a popular figure in Creggs GAA Club. “In our successful junior championship winning year in 2016, Conor brought us up to his current club in Ballycumber, Co. Offaly for a midweek training session the Wednesday night before the replay. His speech to us that night helped us clinch our first county championship in 33 years. “Conor was a fantastic footballer and his work rate for the county jersey was unquestionable. He was also a great person off the field and was always on hand to give you good advice when you’d need it.The thoughts and prayers of everyone here in Creggs GAA Club go out to his father and mother Jimmy and Nora, his wife Claire and three children Caragh 11, Rossa 9, and Owen 6, his brothers Robert, James and Darragh, and his sister Sharon. “Conor will be sadly missed and will never be forgotten in our club. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam”.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

SportsPeople

A shocked community quietly mourns former Roscommon GAA star Conor Connelly < PAUL HEALY

motional tributes have been paid to the former Roscommon footballer Conor Connelly, who died suddenly at the weekend while out jogging. Stunned colleagues and friends within the GAA and throughout the wider community have extended sympathies to his wife Claire and their three young children. The sudden passing of Conor Connelly (formerly of Creggs) near his home in Moorock, Ballycumber, Co. Offaly, occurred on Saturday last, 28th of March. He was just 44 years of age. Roscommon flags have been flown outside many houses and GAA grounds in Creggs, Roscommon and adjoining areas in a show of community sympathy and solidarity at this very difficult time. A proud and devoted family man, Conor Connelly was a solicitor by profession. He was a highly accomplished sportsman, most notably during his time as a very influential member of the Roscommon senior football team, with whom he memorably won a Connacht title in 2001. He also played with distinction for Roscommon at minor and U-21 level. Roscommon County Board led the tributes. Board chairperson Seamus Sweeney said that Roscommon people everywhere are very saddened at the news of his untimely death. “I always admired Conor as a footballer…he was a fine tenacious player who gave his all when wearing the primrose and blue. “I extend my sympathy and the sympathy of Roscommon GAA to Conor’s wife Claire, their three young children, and to Conor’s parents, Jimmy and Nora” Mr. Sweeney said. Fergal O’Donnell, captain of the Roscommon team which won the 2001 Connacht Championship, described Conor Connelly as a “clever, smart player”, while John Tobin, manager of the 2001 team, said he was “a leader in a team of leaders”. Conor Connelly was an outstanding Gaelic footballer. He won a Leinster Colleges’ title with St. Mel’s (Longford) in 1994. Playing his club football

The late Conor Connelly, RIP.

with Creggs, he graduated to the Roscommon senior team, starring during the 2001 Connacht title winning campaign. When the Connelly family moved to Ballinlough, Conor joined Michael Glavey’s. Later, when studying to become a barrister, he played with St. Jude’s in Dublin. In more recent years, when living in Co. Offaly, he played for Ballycumber, where he also made a major contribution as a club officer and in a coaching capacity. In a statement on behalf of Creggs GAA, Club Chairperson Sean Brandon said: “It is with heartfelt sadness that we learned our friend and clubmate Conor Connelly passed away. We are deeply

shocked and saddened in Creggs GAA Club and the wider community at the sudden death of our good friend and former Creggs and Roscommon star. “Conor was an exceptionally talented and dedicated footballer and all-round sportsman and it was no surprise that he went on to achieve great success with the Roscommon senior team, while representing Connacht in the Railway Cup. “Conor didn’t forget his roots and Creggs GAA will never forget the outstanding contribution he made to the club. May he rest in peace”. Creggs GAA extended sympathies to Conor’s wife Claire, their three young children and to the

Connelly and Quinn families. Conor Connelly is mourned by his wife Claire, children Caragh, Rossa and Owen, his parents Jimmy and Nora, brothers Robert, James and Darragh, sister Sharon, their wives and partners, his parents-in-law Stephen and Aggie, brothers-in-law Colm and Stevie, sisters-inlaw Magali and Amy, nieces and nephews and a wide circle of friends. Due to the current government restrictions in relation to Covid-19, the funeral is family only. His family said that a special remembrance and “celebration of Conor’s packed full and joyful life” will be held “as soon as it is safe to do so”.

A brilliant sportsman and great leader < SEAMUS DUKE

The first time I came across Conor Connelly wasn’t in Roscommon, it was in Longford. I was news and sports editor in Shannonside Radio at the time, and when St. Mel’s College in Longford began to do well in the Leinster Championship in 1994, I was at most of the matches. In almost all of those games Conor Connelly was man of the match, or a contender for that honour. Playing in midfield, he had a mighty engine, and was an inspirational leader. It didn’t take a genius to work out that Conor would play at the very highest level. On that St. Mel’s team Conor played midfield alongside Martin Flanagan, who was another fantastic player, and one of Westmeath’s finest ever. Between them they formed a fantastic partnership. The manager of that brilliant team was Declan Rowley. “Conor was in every way the perfect student. He was incredibly passionate on the field of play and he hated to lose. He was a great leader and an

inspiration to those around him. Not only was he a brilliant sportsman and a great footballer, he was a fantastic student, intelligent, grounded and a lovely lad. He was a fantastic ambassador for our school and we were very proud of his achievements on and off the field. I have been shaken to the core by the news of his sudden death. We shall remember him fondly here in St. Mel’s” Declan told me on Monday last. The comments of Declan Rowley sum up the contribution that Conor Connelly made not only to St. Mel’s and Roscommon football, but to his native Creggs – and indeed in everything he did. He was incredibly passionate and dedicated to everything he put his hand to. Most of the focus in connection with Conor’s career with Roscommon will centre on that never-to-be-forgotten day in 2001 when Roscommon won the Connacht Senior Football Final. However, in the semi-final against Galway in Tuam that year Conor also had a fantastic game. Seamus O’Neill was the deserved man of the match that day, but Conor was not far

behind. He was everywhere and gave a fantastic pass to Frankie Dolan for Roscommon’s second goal. His passion and determination ensured that he got into trouble with referees from time to time, but that was part of the package you got with Conor. He gave it everything every day he went out, regardless of who he was playing for. After playing for Creggs, Conor went on to play club football with Michael Glavey’s when his family moved to the area. Later, came a stint with St. Jude’s in Dublin. Subsequently he married Claire and they settled in Ballycumber, Co. Offaly and he was a very popular member of the community there, not alone in GAA circles but in the village and parish. I am also aware that in terms of his work as a solicitor Conor helped out many people over the years, many of them former colleagues and teammates. Since the tragic news came last weekend, many of them have told me of the work he did quietly and confidentially over the years. Since he moved to Co. Offaly I hadn’t met Conor as often as before, but since I

went to work in Midlands 103 I’ve heard nothing but glowing reports about his popularity in the Ballycumber area. Just three weeks ago I met Conor at Tom Lyons’ party at Roscommon Golf Club. He was in great form and as friendly as ever. How things can change so quickly. Conor gave Roscommon supporters many moments of great pleasure watching him. I am eternally grateful to have known him. Conor was a thorough gentleman. His loss to Roscommon GAA, to his friends and colleagues and everyone who knew him, is enormous, but it pales in comparison to the loss to his wife Claire and their young children Caragh, Rossa and Owen. To his heartbroken parents Jimmy and Nora – who were so proud of him – and to his brothers Robert, James and Darragh, his sister Sharon and to all in the Connelly and Quinn families, I want to extend my deepest sympathy on their loss. Ni bheidh a leitheid an aris.

Roscommon People Friday 03 April 2020

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