24 February 2023 Roscommon People

HIRE PURCHASE AGREEMENT

I bought a car almost two years ago and I am paying for it by way of a hire purchase agreement which I signed with my bank. I recently lost my job, and I can no longer afford to make the payments. I only used my car for work, so I no longer need it. Please advise me, I’m very worried about it all.

Hire purchase is an agreement allowing a consumer to hire goods (in this case a car) by paying agreed installments for an agreed time period. You do not actually own the car until the last installment is paid, although you will have full use of the car throughout the repayment period.

You can terminate the agreement at any time by giving notice in writing to the lending institution, but penalties will be applied for breaking the agreement early.

There is a consumer-friendly rule called The Half Rule Process. It allows a consumer to end a hire purchase agreement if they have paid half of the hire purchase price. You may return the car and give notice, in writing, that you are ending the agreement.

You are not obliged to have paid half the hire purchase price prior to returning the car using the half rule.

However, you will still owe the difference between the payments you have made and half the hire purchase price. You should check the hire purchase agreement to ascertain exactly what amounts to half of the hire purchase price. You will also be responsible for any repairs and any arrears owing.

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

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433

info@bccsolicitors.ie www.bccsolicitors.ie

WATCHING People

With PAUL HEALY

A Cliff Richard fan from Armagh… and keeping Marty Morrissey company!

Such a shame we weren’t together at the Hyde on Sunday!

I know! Sorry I was late getting to the game…

What a win!

Brilliant!

I was in the main stand…sitting right behind a very big, burly Armagh man – he got very animated with the referee a few times – and a very small old Armagh lady.

You were hardly intimidated?

No, she was lovely…

I meant by the burly man who was giving out to the ref…

Oh he was grand too. The Armagh supporters couldn’t have been sounder! The big, burly man was the old lady’s son…and she was his mother.

Makes sense, that second bit…

They produced sandwiches at halftime, and the big, burly man told me of his devotion to Daniel O’Donnell and Cliff Richard… Cheesy.

Ham, actually. Yes, they were definitely ham sandwiches.

I meant…oh forget it.

Anyways, we had a wonderful chat at half-time. I told them quite a lot about my life. I kept talking until the old lady seemed to nod off for a quick sleep, which was unfortunate, as I was

Endangered Species Thebarstoolboyos

just beginning to tell her about my upcoming political career.

(They pause to make arrangements for this weekend’s trip to Clones)

So, once you eventually arrived, where did YOU position yourself in the Hyde?

Eh….I was in the main stand too, but several rows away from you.

You never got in touch! You could have…called!

I didn’t want to be one of those people shouting into a mobile ‘And where are you? I’m just under the advertising hoarding across from the centre spot…’ Mmnn…still, strange for you not to join me!

Well, I got talking to people too! These GAA games are social outings!

Indeed! Speaking of talking to people, I had great fun with Marty!

Huh?

Marty Morrissey! I walked the whole way in with Marty…from the Athlone Road entrance all the way over to the press box, into the canteen, up to the dressing rooms, over to his camera crew, then back to the media centre… I’d say Marty really enjoyed that… He seemed to! I gave him my predictions for this season’s championship… The overall winners?

No, the outcome of every game! And a quick rundown on Dancing with the Stars!

Oh dear…

So, I had a great day! Who did you get talking to?

Oh, just a big, burly Armagh man and his mother…they’d moved a few rows at half-time…the nice lady muttered something about needing some peace and quiet!

It’s been a GOOD week for… ☺

Jarlath Burns, with the school principal and former Armagh footballer elected as president-elect of the GAA

The Banshees of Inisherin, with the movie picking up four Baftas on Sunday, including ‘Best Supporting Actress’ for Kerry Condon and ‘Best Supporting Actor’ for Barry Keoghan

Roscommon senior footballers, this after an impressive win over Armagh at Hyde Park ensured Davy Burke’s team remain top of Division

One of the Allianz Football League

It’s been a BAD week for… ☹

The reputation of AIB, after it emerged that the bank wrote off over 99% of a €9.5m debt owed by GAA superstar DJ Carey

Ireland South MEP Mick Wallace, forced on the defensive over a lack of clarity in relation to full disclosure of his financial interests

Spring antics at Lismoil National School!

Lismoil National School, nestled in the heart of the countryside, is a hive of activity this spring with the children busy planting out their snowdrops and bluebells to add to their Sensory Garden area!

The theme in the Junior room this month is the farm and the children have been very creative. Not only that but we have also had a very informative visit from their Creative Schools associate Donna. The children were delighted to create little pinch pots from clay and are eagerly awaiting Donna’s next visit.

This week the Senior room will be taking part in a chess tournament in Taughmaconnell, while the Junior room will take

part in a rope making project with Heritage Ireland.

If you would like to visit this engaging little Primary School, an open evening will take place this evening (Thursday, February 23rd) from 4 pm to 5.30 pm. You can meet the staff, take a tour, meet a parents’ representative and see what this beautiful school has to offer primary school children of all ages.

If Thursday does not suit why not look at our amazing facebook page Lismoil National School or check out the school website https://lismoilns.scoilnet.ie/blog

A private appointment may also be booked by ringing the school on 090-6623373.

Murphy welcomes cost-of-living package ... but Kerrane says it doesn’t go far enough!

The Government’s new cost-ofliving package, announced on Tuesday, includes a number of measures aimed, it says, at “putting money back into people’s pockets while ensuring there is no cliff-edge for the temporary measures already in place”.

Measures include a bonus Child Benefit payment of €100 per child in June, and once-off €100 increase in the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance in July, while a second lump sum of €200 will be paid to those on the Working Family Payment.

Locally, the €60 million package for education, which includes the waiving of exam fees for Junior and Leaving Cert and reduced school transport fees, has been welcomed by Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy, who says it will alleviate the financial burden on families.

“These measures will make a significant difference to many households across Roscommon and the country as a whole. I applaud Minister

Norma Foley for her efforts in reducing the cost of living for Irish families and look

forward to seeing the positive impact of these measures on our community,” he said.

Garden

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane, however, said the measures don’t go far enough for

Glenamaddy District Ploughing and Agricultural Show AGM

Glenamaddy District Ploughing and Agricultural Show will hold its Annual General Meeting on Friday, March 3rd at 8 pm in Glenamaddy Community Centre.

workers and their families.

Deputy Kerrane said the Back to School payment should not be a one-off and that the Fuel Allowance should have been extended to those on the Working Family Payment.

“The announced measures include no additional supports for fuel and heating, despite calls from Sinn Féin to establish a much-needed Discretionary Fund to assist households struggling with utility debt,” she said, before adding that lump sum payments for one-parent families and those with disabilities would not be enough.

“That these payments will not be received until April means that many households will continue to struggle, when supports are needed immediately,” she said.

Deputy Kerrane said that more and more workers are reaching out to organisations such as St Vincent de Paul and called on Minister Heather Humphreys to return Community Welfare Officers to communities in order to expedite applications for State-aid.

The meeting will provide the opportunity for a catch-up, the election of officers and the welcoming of new members. Everyone is welcome to attend the AGM and we would love if you would like to get involved and support our Glenamaddy District Ploughing and Agricultural Show 2023. The show is due to take place on Sunday, October 1st this year.

Ballintubber Kayaking Club training

Ballintubber & District Kayaking Club training for adult members will take place on March 11th, 18th, and 25th at Errit Lake. For more information, please contact any of the following: Cllr. Anthony Waldron, Gareth Scahill, Peter Keaveney, or John Kennedy.

Ploughing for Derrane!

The Roscommon County Ploughing Championships will be held on the 2nd of April 2023 on the McDermott farm, Coolteige, Derrane area. More details in coming issues.

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

FRIDAY Some compromise…

They had the cheek to call it a ‘compromise’…

The revelation that former Kilkenny hurling star DJ Carey received a 99.4% write-down from AIB on a €9.5m debt has rightly left people stunned.

The bank secured a High Court judgement for just over €9.5m in 2011, the debt relating to multi-million euro loans taken out by Carey for exclusive properties at Mount Juliet and the K Club.

RTE has now revealed that AIB struck a deal with Carey in 2017 which saw the sporting legend paying just €60,000 in settlement of the massive debt – with the remainder of the €9.5m being written off.

Documents seen by RTE quote the bank referring to a ‘settlement’ and a ‘compromise’.

It’s not language that I and hundreds of thousands of citizens in this country quickly associate with our normally more cold-hearted financial institutions.

In County Roscommon, thousands of people have gone into mortgage arrears at various times over the past 15 years or so, in the wake of economic crashes.

Few if any of those people will entertain you with anecdotes about our increasingly heartless banks offering generous (or even reasonable) settlements to stressed borrowers.

Across the SME landscape, derelict office spaces – windows coated in cobwebs – reflect the shattered dreams of so many hard-working, courageous people.

For hundreds of thousands of people across the country, it is infuriating to read of this astonishing and apparently preferential engagement with Carey.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY Weekend GAA

On Saturday, Mayo were very impressive in comfortably defeating

Kerry in the Allianz NFL.

On Sunday, Roscommon recorded a good win against Armagh, Enda Smith’s penalty the decisive score. The second half was thrilling stuff, played against a backdrop of a great atmosphere in the Hyde.

As against Tyrone and Galway in the previous rounds, a superb second-half performance earned Roscommon victory.

The last time I saw Jarlath Burns in the flesh was when he was leaning against one of the rails in the stand at Hyde Park (on the Athlone Road side) – flanked by three or four friends – at a Roscommon-Armagh game a few years ago.

On Sunday, he was introduced to the attendance at half-time, Burns now the president-elect of the GAA. He is an impressive guy and there is every reason to expect his presidency to be a big success.

There was a huge crowd in the Hyde.

As I note in my musings on page 39,

Armagh supporters were out in force on Sunday. Indeed many Armagh folk spent a night or two in Roscommon town over the weekend, a welcome boost for hotels, B&Bs and other businesses.

MONDAY Musings on Clones

There’s something special about the ‘away days’ during the GAA league season. Now, after a remarkable win in Salthill, Roscommon footballers’ next stop on the road will be at the famous St Tiernach’s Park in Clones. My first visit to the town wasn’t for a game. It was 1986, shortly after Clones’ most famous resident – Barry McGuigan – had downed the great Eusebio Pedroza at Loftus Road on his way to winning the world featherweight boxing title.

A (very young) sports reporter with

the Cavan Leader at the time, I was working on some story. On arriving in the town square, I noticed the McGuigan family shop, which was run by Barry’s mum. What surprised me – even in those less celebrity-obsessed and pre-social media days – was the fact that the world champion’s flashy sports car was parked in the square, across from the shop. Photos of McGuigan proudly behind the wheel of his sporty number often featured in the papers.

On closer inspection, I could see the words ‘Clones Cyclone’ emblazoned on the vehicle. I called into the shop, where the champ’s mother was chatting to a local. She struck me as a lovely, down to earth lady. Unfortunately, there was no sign of Barry. There ends the anecdote, rather as abruptly as the gallant Pedroza’s hopes had ended once McGuigan landed that famous right hook some months earlier.

I’ve been to Clones many times since, for Roscommon matches, for Ulster

finals too. It’s a great GAA venue, steeped in tradition. Arriving there this Sunday, Roscommon supporters will know the league is really in full swing, strutting its stuff come rain or shine (often the coldest league days are the most memorable!)…taking the faithful deep into the type of ‘away day’ mystery tour that is the essence of this great competition.

TUESDAY A trip to Leinster House

A local media seminar in Leinster House today gave a few local hacks (yours truly included) an excuse to be wined and dined in the plush Houses of the Oireachtas, while (genuinely) making some contacts and gathering information on the latest media services being provided by the Press Office.

The friendly Leinster House staff gave the assembled media guests – all from Connacht – a very interesting tour of the Dáil and Senate chambers, their full history outlined. This was followed by a guide to the services of the Houses of the Oireachtas Broadcasting unit, located in Kildare Street (quite a bewildering and impressive array of studios and offices).

In the evening, it was time to relax and enjoy drinks in the Visitors’ Bar, followed by Dinner in the beautiful adjoining restaurant. We were joined by a number of TDs and senators from the various constituencies in Connacht. En route to the bar, there was even the bonus of a meeting in the Dáil corridor with Danny Healy-Rae, followed by a quick greeting from Michael Healy-Rae, who paused his phone call to say hello (yes, cap was firmly in place).

Later still, a few of us retired to the nearby Doyle’s Bar, where we disagreed about the balance of power in Connacht football, and agreed on who we consider to be the three most impressive rural TDs in the country.

Working for Rural Ireland

Information evening on Rural Ireland and Farming with Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D. and Senator Eugene Murphy, Spokesperson on Community, Rural Affairs and the Islands.

Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

28th February at 7.30pm Open

‘Gombean’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre

Niamh McGrath returns to Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, February 24th with her hilarious new one-woman show, ‘Gombean’.

Set in a sleepy town in Sligo, the show follows Grace O’Malley – the Warrior Queen – who is reincarnated as a coffee horsebox entrepreneur, high on debt and low on self-esteem. When a blast from her past, wrestling rival Ruby Stephens, arrives in town, decades after making it big, Grace’s world is literally turned upside down.

When a chance at a cash prize

Man charged with Hodson Bay burglary

A man has appeared in court charged in relation to a burglary in the county last weekend.

Gardaí attended the scene of a burglary that occurred around 3.30 am in the Hodson Bay area of Roscommon on Saturday last.

One adult male, aged in his teens, was arrested in relation to this incident and appeared at a sitting of Tullamore District Court on Sunday.

Municipal Districts to meet on tourism

The three Municipal Districts of Roscommon County Council are to meet next week to explore the possibility of working together on local tourism and enterprise.

The meeting will take place at 4 pm in Gullane’s Hotel, Ballinasloe on Tuesday, March 2nd, and follows on from a similar meeting in Ballymoe a year ago.

Local artists for concert in aid of Somalia

A ‘Grand Variety Concert’ in aid of Somalia will be held in Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, 25th of February next (8 pm).

A night of music, song, dance and storytelling, it will feature Vinegar Bill, Pasty Hanly, John Wynne, John Carlos, The Norton Dancers, Christina Carron, storyteller Vincent Pierse, and The Knockcroghery Ukulele Group. Tickets (€15) are now available. Contact Roscommon Arts on 090 6625824, see www. roscommonartscentre.ie

comes her way so does a shot at unforeseen redemption, as she contends to win back the title she lost at the U-18 Community Games in 1994.

The performance sees McGrath performing as multiple characters as she delivers a lockdown dose of caffeine-fuelled fun.

Niamh is an actor, playwright, and director who hails from Enniscrone, Co. Sligo. Over the years she has performed the length and breadth of the country. She was an original cast member of Alone It Stands, which toured international-

Now taking bookings for Communions, Confirmations and Mothers Day celebrations

ly, and had much critical acclaim as the co-writer of Looking Deadly, a Show in a Bag initiative with Dublin Fringe in 2017.

Niamh also co-wrote and performed in Living with a Fairy (GMTV), which aired on RTÉ in 2019. Directed by Seamus O’Rourke, ‘Gombean’ shows us that some dreams can’t be stomped on!

Tickets are €16/14. To book your ticket and/or for more information, contact the box office on 090-6625824 or visit roscommonartscentre.ie.

“Overview of New CAP Schemes 2023”

Monday,

27th February 8pm on Zoom

Annual Oíche Gaelach in Clooneycolgan

The annual Oíche Gaelach will be held in Clooneycolgan Community Centre on Saturday, March 11th from 7 pm. The concert will consist of traditional music, Irish dance, and traditional singing and waltzing.

We kindly ask the people of Oran to come out and support this concert. All welcome.

Loughglynn Cemetery funding request

The Graveyard Information Board in Loughglynn Cemetery is in need of updating, a project which will require funding.

As such, a voluntary donation will be taken up at the Sunday Mass of the 26th of February in aid of this project. Envelopes are available at the back of the church. All contributions will be greatly appreciated.

Roscommon Garden Club meeting

Roscommon Garden Club will hold its next meeting on Monday, February 27th at 8 pm in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

Rory Newell, horticulturist, plantsman, and nursery owner of Forest Moon Plants will give a talk on Spring Plant Propagation. All welcome.

Miriam’s MUSINGS

Words of wit and wisdom with MIRIAM KERINS

Used as a creative prop, screen time is fine for children

According to figures compiled by the Central Statistics Office back in 2020, ‘almost a fifth of internet users use a virtual assistant in their home’. I suppose this means these homes have a smart speaker like Alexa or Google Home, etc.

However, despite the fact researchers at the school of clinical medicine at Cambridge University have suggested that, when used in the home, these devices could actually ‘hinder children’s social and cognitive development’, I’d imagine if this study were repeated today, that figure would rise significantly. Why? Because busy parents need, and busy parents deserve, to have a bit of peace, quiet and head space…that’s why!

I’m no expert, just a parent who’s raised two daughters to adulthood, albeit in an era before smart devices were ever a major ‘thing’. However, I have babysat my granddaughters, and – full disclosure, readers – in a moment or two of sheer frustration and utter exhaustion, when I’ve been desperate for a coffee and two paracetamol, I’ve handed

those kids my smartphone or my tablet to keep them ‘entertained’.

And yes, I do know some boffin at the World Health Or-

ganisation (WHO) suggested that ‘infants under the age of one should have no exposure to screens whatsoever’. However, this genius never had to drive a

Stop trying to humiliate breastfeeding mothers

Regular readers will know I’ve written previously about my own experience of breastfeeding my kids; as in, tried it, wasn’t mad about it, stopped it, switched to formula. However, I would always support any mother who chooses to breastfeed, whether they’re doing it exclusively, or using a combination of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding either with pumpedmilk or formula.

I could be wrong, but, given the stories I’ve heard, and, given one mother’s much-publicised negative experience at the UCD Sport and Fitness centre – where she claims she was asked to ‘stop breastfeeding her baby at the side of the toddler pool’ – it’s my belief that there are some serious pedants out there! It also seems that mothers who do choose to exclusively breastfeed are being picked on, pointed at, confronted, and singled out for doing something in public which they’re not just morally entitled to do, but which they’re also legally entitled to do.

Under the Equal Status Act (20002015) – although breastfeeding is

not actually mentioned – breastfeeding mothers are protected from discrimination under the gender and family status provisions of the act. They’re also protected from harassment – including sexual harassment. This means a breastfeeding mother can use a range of services which are provided by places of hospitality (i.e. restaurants, hotels, shops, etc.) to feed their babies without having to seek permission from anyone to do it! So don’t fall into the, ahem, ‘booby-trap’ (pun intended) of thinking you can get away with humiliating a mother for nursing her child.

However, I will add that, even though it’s not technically illegal for someone to request a breastfeeding mother to cover up while feeding her baby, the act prohibits against ‘direct and indirect discrimination, victimisation and harassment’.

Therefore, while I know for some mothers, (me included), breast is not always best, I think it’s about time the fault-finding, easily-upset snowflakes among us stopped body-shaming those who do choose to do it.

vehicle containing my beautiful, amazing, super-intelligent, yet highly energetic and extremely vocal youngest grandchild! Besides, in my defence, sometimes poor Nana’s sanity not only relies heavily upon, it also depends on an episode (or three) of Peppa Pig!

Back in the day, when I gave birth to my granddaughter’s mammy, being a young, naïve teenage mammy myself, I’d decided I wasn’t going to give my baby a soother to suck (or a doody as she called it). I had this romantic notion that, whenever she cried, I’d rock my gurgling girl to sleep, soothing her with softly-sung lullabies whilst we both basked in the glow of the moonlight! Yeah right!

That all changed the second I realised a 3 am rendition of ‘Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral’ and ‘Hush Little Baby’ wasn’t going to cut it as effectively as a soother soaked in gripe water – to ease her colic of course. Sadly, the wet-blanket brigade have since banned gripe water due to its alcohol content. Fast-forward to today, and, I have to admit, if I were parenting a toddler I’d be purchasing

enough electronic and batteryoperated tat to fill an entire warehouse.

I will add though that I’d be placing screen-time limits on this ‘tat’; and, while I’m not in any way telling anyone how to parent their child, I’d strongly suggest that ground rules would need to be set and stuck to.

For example, I’d be limiting their time to twenty minutes while I grabbed a coffee or scanned through a newspaper. Thirty minutes while the ankle-biter sits in the supermarket trolley, allowing me to get the food shopping done. I’d give the child a bit longer to serve as a distraction for them while travelling on a long car journey, etc. You get my drift.

I would however, draw the line at using these devices as a routine distraction to occupy a child for hours and hours at a time – for the simple reason (as we all know) the way in which kiddies develop is through social interaction, something which no device can provide.

Nonetheless, it must be said that we do live in a tech-filled world, and, so long as these de-

vices aren’t replacing a richer experience for our kids like a game of football or a visit to the park, then I have to ask, what real harm are they doing?

When all is said and done, and in order to move with the times, it’s obvious to me that an element of screen-time is not only going to be important for our kids, it’s also going to be necessary.

At the end of the day, it’s my belief that our kids will be okay so long as we, their parents, understand that the overriding factor regarding these devices hinges on two things – one, the content they’re viewing and two, the context of their technology-based experience.

Remember folks, our kids’ screen-time should never be allowed to act as a controlling element in their development, but rather as a creative prop. Again, I’m no expert, and I’m not handing out parental advice, but as these smart devices only have the amount of power over our kids that we, their parents/grandparents/guardians give them, it’d seem to me that setting boundaries is key.

Comhghairdeas on your BAFTA, Barry!

The life experiences which Dublin actor Barry Keoghan has gone through would, quite literally, floor most of us!

Raised in Dublin’s inner-city Summerhill, a stone’s throw from where I was born in ‘the cottages’ off Dorset Street, Barry’s BAFTA win (for his role in The Banshees of Inisherin) was very much deserved. I am absolutely thrilled for him!

I watched the movie and, while I thought it was entertaining and, dare I say, twee, I was blown away by talented Barry’s wonderful portrayal of Dominic Kearney, the troubled, yet charming and hapless young lad, and son of evil local guard Peadar in The Banshees of Inisherin.

This 30-year-old actor’s story is definitely one of triumph over adversity. Admitting to once being forced to sneak into the cinema to see a movie with pals, it’s only right that this inspirational young man is now not just starring in them, he’s receiving awards for his persistence and his craft.

He’s a credit to the grandmother and aunt who raised him. I’m sure his poor mammy, whose heroin addiction and subsequent death which resulted in Barry and his brother Eric going through 13 foster homes, is looking down on her baby boy with love and pride.

Aughrim Kilmore History Society AGM

Aughrim Kilmore History Society recently held its Annual General Meeting, during which the society’s new officers were elected. The officers elected for the coming year are – Chairperson: Tommie Kenoy; Secretary: Deirdre Stritch; Treasurer: Teresa Kenoy; Archivist: Camilla Kelly; Executive Committee: John Gilchrest and Karl Foley.

Woman hospitalised following Castlerea fire

A woman was hospitalised with smoke inhalation following a fire at a property in Castlerea on Thursday night, February 17th. Fire services from Ballyhaunis and Ballaghaderreen attended the scene of the fire at Knockroe in the town at around 8.50 pm. Ambulance personnel and Gardaí were also present and the occupant of the house was brought to hospital. Roscommon Fire Services said the property suffered extensive smoke damage following the fire.

Castlecoote Lodge

Trad Session

Friday night

24th February 2023 at 9.30 pm

Music session this Friday in Castlecoote Lodge

A great session of music and song is much anticipated at Castlecoote Lodge this Friday night, February 24th. The session will kick off from 9.30 pm and true to the well established monthly Trad sessions, the music and song will be well worth experiencing. There may even be some storytelling, recitation, and dance.

A warm welcome awaits all this Friday in Castlecoote!

Grow your own fruit event at Ardcarne

There will be a ‘Grow your own fruit and composting’ event at Ardcarne Garden Centre in Boyle this Saturday (25th) from 11 am to 12 pm. Please call 071-9667091 to book your place. All welcome.

Card game in aid of Ard Scoil Mhuire

A progressive 25 card game in aid of Ard Scoil Mhuire, Ballinasloe will take place this Sunday (26th) at 8 pm in Gullane’s Hotel, Ballinasloe. Admission is €10 per person. There will be spot prizes and a raffle on the night. Organisers: ASM Parents Association. Please support.

Tulsk History Society Quiz Night

Tulsk History Society are holding their second annual quiz night in O’Connor’s Bar in Tulsk on Saturday, March 4th, starting at 9 pm.

Last year’s March outing was a great success and many spot prizes will again be up for grabs on this occasion. Price per person is €10. All welcome.

In other society news, the Ogulla Shrine restoration project is well underway, with a new forecourt surface, new guttering on the chapel, wall building and painting having already been carried out.

The funds the History Society received as part of the Roscommon County Council and Boyle Municipal District Scheme 2022 has now been largely exhausted and the society members hope fundraising for Phase 2 of the project will take place during the year. The end goal is to bring the shrine back to its former glory.

A new THS website is being created and will be ready to launch in the coming weeks, while the next society newsletter will be circulated in mid-March. You can contact THS on historytulsk@gmail.com.

Happy ‘71 Bridge Club

1st: Mary Coyle and Phyllis O’Shaughnessy; 2nd: Phil and Seamus Cooney; Gross: Mary and Pearse Mellett. St Coman’s Bridge Club

1st: Ann Shine and Mary Naughton; 2nd: Susan Farrell and John O’Gara; Gross: Tina McHale and Mary Judge.

Ballymurray Bridge Club

North/South – 1st: Bernie Maher and James Walsh; 2nd: Tony McManus and Michael McSharry; Gross: Gerry Neilan and Eileen Mulry. East/West – 1st: Pat Lyons and Jill Farrelll; 2nd: Geraldine Relihan and Honor Lynn; Gross: Martina Hanley and Helen Earley.

FRANK BRANDON

FRANK BRANDON’S unique take on life ...

Wood you believe it? Readers respond to timber housing comments

Our man Frank on a reader’s response to recent musings on affordable homes, bingo nights and GAA awards, the devastation in Turkey, and a rugby league showdown with Connemara…

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about the housing crisis in this country, commenting that in

my opinion, timber-framed houses could prove to be the answer to the problem. And this week I can safely say that in the fourteen or so years I have been writing this column, I have never received as much feedback.

Some of my readers told me that I had it all wrong, and that I should be writing about timber houses and not timber-framed houses, and some of them agreed with my assessment that big business, banks, and the construction industry were instrumental in (pardon the pun) ‘blocking’ the

development of these much cheaper houses.

However, one north Roscommon reader, a retired construction teacher, took the time out to send me a couple of emails, and in the course of a hugely extensive and informative message, he also took aim at civil servants, planning regulations and what he described as a culture of “objection-ism”. In his email, he said that anyone in construction could tell us that modern timber or steel frame buildings could produce an excellent A or B-rated home at an affordable price.

He agreed that business/professional interests, banks and construction companies were all major obstacles, but on top of those, he said politicians can sometimes prevent progress as well.

Funnily enough, the very same day I received his email, the director of housing and planning at the Construction Industry Federation, Conor O’Connell, backed up his claim, claiming that some politicians have objected to certain developments, while at the same time calling for more housing.

Earthquake brings back memories of Turkish travels

Some years ago, I spent two weeks in Turkey with a Swedish business man, who was investigating the viability of importing furniture from that country into Ireland. We travelled all over the country, and even then, it was impossible to escape the fact that a lot of the people lived in extremely poor conditions.

Houses, such as they were, were literally built on top of each other. We visited areas where entire villages lived in underground caves without any of the most basic facilities. I remember every car seemed to be at least thirty years old and the roads were in dreadful repair.

However, as in Ireland, the rich were very rich. For a couple of nights, we stayed in an apartment owned by a wealthy Turkish businessman, which was located on the beachfront of the Mediterranean Sea in the city of Adana –and the luxury had to be seen to be believed.

Everything was marble; you could nearly shave yourself (if I was shaving) on the tiles, they were so shiny and polished. We had our own private bar, the light fittings were all of the finest crystal, and the bathroom - with its sunken bath - was big enough to hold a football match!

It was a world removed from that which existed on the outside of our gated complex, which was constantly patrolled by heavily armed guards.

Right outside the gates every day, a young mother,

who always had her three children with her, used to sell delicious pancakes for something like 20 cents each. Only if she had some left over at the end of the day would her children get any. If she sold them all, the family would head home to their makeshift house just down the road - effectively a homemade tent comprising of a few sticks and some tarpaulin covering – and, presumably after feeding the kids, the mother would set about making the pancakes that she hoped to sell the following day.

And so, as I read about the horrific earthquake that has devastated so much of Turkey and neighbouring Syria, especially the area around Adana, I wondered if the luxury apartment survived the tremors (and I do hope so), but I know there is no chance for the makeshift tent down the road.

It’s a few years ago since I visited Turkey, and I’m sure things have improved since then but regardless of how much the quality of building has advanced, nothing can withstand the power of nature when it flexes its muscles. The recent earthquake shows how little of our existence we actually control. Natural disasters are becoming more and more frequent too, so as a man I met in the chipper said to me the other night: “We are so lucky to live in wet, windy, but mostly safe, Ireland”.

My reader had sent me a piece about a housing development for 400 houses in Midleton, and to support his claim about a culture of “objection-ism”, he said that the group that objected to the development were based many miles away in Mayo. He also laid some of the blame at the feet of civil servants adding that building regulations are far too complicated too. In another of his emails, he referenced a recent programme in the Irish DIY SOS series, where a number

of volunteer construction workers managed to build and landscape a completely new wooden structure in just one week. He told me that there is now an even faster and better way of completing such a project; something called SIPS, which stands for Structural Insulated Panels. Obviously I am no expert, but it seems to me that if the will was there, it would be possible to house an awful lot of people in cheap, warm, perfectly liveable homes, and do away with the appalling homeless problem.

It’s all happening in Creggs!

A couple of weeks ago I told you about how on the weekend that we were away to see the Ireland France Six Nations match everything was happening back home in Creggs!

On the Friday night, there was bingo in the local school hall, with proceeds going to the school itself, and Olivia Harris tells me that it was a great success. A great crowd turned up (despite my absence) and the even better news is that the €500 jackpot was won on the night! Congratulations to the lucky winner on what was a really nice sum to go home with.

Olivia tells me there will be another bingo night happening around Easter, so you too have a shot at bringing home the jackpot!

The following evening, Creggs GAA Club held its prizegiving night in Jackson’s, Roscommon. The winning Tansey Cup team members were presented with their medals, and the Young Player of the Year and Senior (was going to say the old player, but better not!) Player of the Year also received their awards.

This year, two legends of our club, the late Kathleen McKeague and Conor Connelly, were honoured by having these player of the year awards named after them. Mark Dowd was the recipient of the first Kathleen McKeague Cup for young player, and Enda Conneran was the winner of the Conor Connelly Cup for senior player.

Congratulations to both players, who were very worthy winners. Hopefully they will steer the club to more success this year.

Mark McHugh, the Donegal All-Ireland winner and member of the ‘Rampant Rossies’ backroom team, was our guest on the night, along with Roscommon GAA Chairperson Brian Carroll,

and he presented all the victorious players with their medals and awards. Afterwards, everyone adjourned to JJ’s, where Danny Arnold had them dancing the night away. From there they went to Nancy’s, and hard as I dug for information, that’s where my sources dried up…(although certainly not literally!)

Finally for this week…

Out here in Creggs, we are looking forward to next Sunday’s rugby league final against old foes Connemara, which will take place in the Sportsground, Galway at 2.30 pm.

It’s been more than 30 years since we last won the league and it’s a tall order for our lads to overcome the ‘All Blacks’ who just last Sunday put 60 points on a Castlebar team that Creggs barely beat just two weeks ago.

The Connemara men are the reigning champions and are definitely be the bookies’ favourites but I have every confidence that our lads can bridge the very long gap and bring the cup back to Creggs. I can’t wait to see the bonfires lighting in the village on Sunday night and I might even have a celebratory pint or two! Hopefully you can make it to Galway on Sunday afternoon and give our lads the support they deserve and certainly need.

‘Till next week, Bye for now!

LETTING OF LANDS

Tenders are invited for letting of lands, as detailed in the schedule below, for grazing for the EIGHT month period commencing 1st April 2023. The highest or any offer shall not necessarily be accepted. The persons whose offers are accepted will be required to enter into an agreement with Roscommon County Council, and such persons shall be responsible for fencing work that may be required during the letting period. Horses/ponies/donkeys will not be permitted on Council lands. If required, the Council may terminate any letting on one week’s notice with adjustment of rent. The Tender must be enclosed in a sealed envelope marked “Letting of Lands” and delivered either by hand or by post to Caitlín Conneely, A/Director of Services, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon F42 VR98 no later than 4.00 p.m. on Monday 13th March 2023. Certificates regarding disease free herd must be enclosed with the Tender.

SCHEDULE OF LANDS

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) - Part 8

Applicant: Roscommon County Council

Location: Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon

Proposal: Pursuant to the requirements of the above, notice is hereby given of …

A Proposed Residential Development at Cortober Td., Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon. The proposed development will consist of: The construction of 4 no. new terrace residential units. Site will consist of the demolition of existing dwelling house, and construction of (a) 1 no. 2 bed dwelling (b) 2 no. 2 bed apartments and (c) 1 no. 4 bed dwelling in a terrace style with 6 parking spaces to front with all associated site development works including construction of access roads, footpaths, public & private open spaces, car parking spaces, boundary wall/fence, street lighting, ducting for utilities, hard & soft landscaped areas and formation of new connections to existing foul/surface water drainage and existing utilities.

An appropriate assessment screening report and environmental impact assessment screening report of the proposed development has been completed and is available for inspection with this development. The reports concluded that a full EIAR is not required, and that the development does not need to proceed to Stage 2 appropriate assessment. Where any person considers that a development proposed to be carried out would be likely to have significant effects on the environment, he or she may, at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks beginning on the date of publication of the notice referred to in Article 81(2), apply to An Bord Pleanala for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have such effects. Plans and Particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy for a period of 4 weeks from 24/02/2023 during public opening hours at the offices of the Housing Department, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon or Boyle Municipal Office, Cootehall Street, Boyle Co. Roscommon. Plans and particulars can also be viewed online on the Roscommon County Council website at the following link: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/About_Us/PART-8-Local-Authority-Own-Developments/Housing/ A submission or observation in relation to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made, in writing or via email before 4pm on 13/04/2023, marked “Cortober Housing Development” and submitted to:

Housing Department, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon. Or Housing@roscommoncoco.ie

Signed: Fiona Ní Chuinn, Director of Services.

Date: 24th February 2023.

An tAcht um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 (arna leasú) Na Rialacháin um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2001 (arna leasú) - Cuid 8

Iarratasóir: Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin

Láthair: Corr an Tobair, Cora Droma Rúisc, Contae Ros Comáin

Moladh: De bhun riachtanais na rialachán agus an Achta atá luaite thuas, fógraítear leis seo...

Drama Festival returns to Roscommon County Council

The curtain is about to rise for this year’s Roscommon Drama Festival which takes place in Roscommon Arts Centre from March 3rd to March 11th inclusive. The festival is run under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland (ACDI).

The festival will feature eight nights of top quality drama, performed by some of the country’s best amateur drama groups. All performances will take place in Roscommon Arts Centre with curtain up each evening at 8pm. This year’s adjudicator will be Anna Walker.

Once again, Roscommon County Council is proud to support this year’s festival, regarded as one of the most popular in the region, drawing sell-out crowds for each performance. Therefore early booking is advisable for all performances.

Speaking at last night’s (Wed.) festival launch

at Aras an Chontae, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Tom Crosby told the assembled guests that the Festival “has an unrivalled reputation as one of the finest in the country.”

“The Festival has long integrated itself as an annual staple of the social and cultural life of County Roscommon. The festival has prospered because of the dedication and drive of the various committees over the years”, claimed the Cathaoirleach.

Tickets for this year’s festival are available by logging onto www.roscommonartscentre.ie or by contacting the box office during normal office hours on 090-6625824. Tickets nightly are priced €15 or at a concession rate for students and senior citizens of €13.

Further details of this year’s festival will be available in next week’s edition.

Forbraíocht Chónaithe atá molta, ag baile fearainn Chorr an Tobair, Cora Droma Rúisc, Contae Ros Comáin. San fhorbraíocht atá molta: Tógfar sraith de 4 aonad cónaithe nua. Leagfar an teach cónaithe atá ann faoi láthair, agus tógfar (a) 1 áit chónaithe le 2 sheomra codlata (b) 2 árasán le 2 sheomra codlata agus (c) 1 áit chónaithe le 4 sheomra codlata i stíl sraithe le 6 spás páirceála ag a dtosach agus déanfar na hoibreacha uile a bhaineann le forbairt an láithreáin seo lena n-áirítear bóithre rochtana, cosáin, spásanna oscailte idir phoiblí agus phríobháideach, spásanna páirceála do charranna, ballaí/claíocha teorann, soilsiú sráide, duchtáil d’fhóntais, áiteanna tírdhreachaithe idir chrua agus bhog a thógáil/a chur ar fáil chomh maith le píopaí nua a cheangal leis an gcóras draenála atá ann cheana d’uisce bréan/ dromchla agus leis na fóntais eile atá ann cheana.

Tá tuarascálacha i dtaca leis an bhforbraíocht mholta seo críochnaithe anois, tuarascáil ar scagadh le haghaidh measúnacht chuí agus tuarascáil ar scagadh le haghaidh measúnacht tionchair timpeallachta, agus tá siad ar fáil le haghaidh iniúchta maidir leis an bhforbraíocht seo. Ba é tátal na dtuarascálacha nach bhfuil gá le tuarascáil iomlán MTT, agus nach gá measúnacht chuí Céim 2 a dhéanamh ar an bhforbraíocht. Má tá aon duine den tuairim go mbeadh tionchar suntasach ag aon fhorbraíocht mholta ar an timpeallacht, féadann sé nó sí, ag aon am roimh dheireadh 4 seachtaine ón dáta a foilsíodh an fógra atá luaite in Airteagal 81(2), a iarraidh ar an mBord Pleanála cinneadh scagtha a dhéanamh chun a fháil amach an mbeadh a leithéid de thionchar ag an bhforbraíocht sin. Is féidir Pleananna agus Sonraí na forbraíochta atá molta a iniúchadh nó a cheannach ar tháille nach mó ná an costas réasúnta ar chóip a dhéanamh ar feadh tréimhse 4 seachtaine ón 24/02/2023 le linn uaireanta oscailte poiblí ag oifigí na Rannóige Tithíochta, Áras an Chontae, Comhairle Contae Ros Comáin, Ros Comáin nó ag Oifig Bhardasach Mhainistir na Búille, Sráid Uachtar Thíre, Mainistir na Búille, Contae Ros Comáin. Is féidir breathnú ar phleananna agus ar shonraí ar líne ar shuíomh gréasáin Chomhairle Contae Ros Comáin ag an nasc seo thíos: http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/About_Us/PART-8-Local-Authority-OwnDevelopments/Housing/

Is féidir aighneacht nó tuairim faoin bhforbraíocht atá molta, agus a bhaineann le pleanáil chuí agus le forbairt inbhuanaithe san áit ina mbeadh an fhorbraíocht suite, a chur isteach i scríbhinn nó i ríomhphost roimh 4pm ar an 13/04/2023, scríobh “Forbraíocht Tithíochta Chorr an Tobair” air agus seol é chuig:

An Rannóg Tithíochta, Áras an Chontae, Ros Comáin.

Nó Housing@roscommoncoco.ie

Síniú: Fiona Ní Chuinn, Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí.

Dáta: 24iú Feabhra 2023.

Your Health & Wellbeing

Portiuncula launches app to help children prepare for surgery

Portiuncula University Hospital has launched a virtual reality app aimed at helping children between the ages of 3 and 12 to prepare for surgery and allay their anxiety in advance of a hospital stay.

The ‘Little Journey’ app provides 360 degree views of all areas children will visit at the hospital as well as useful information about anaesthesiology tailored to the age of the child.

Dr Vinod Sudhir, Consultant Anaesthesiologist at Portiuncula University Hospital said: “The ‘Little Journey’ app was devel-

oped to help change the way children experience hospitals by empowering them and giving them the information they need to reduce their anxiety in a fun, interactive format. The app helps children to familiarise themselves with the hospital and the handy checklists included will help families to prepare in advance of the hospital stay”.

Roscommon mum Martina Fallon said: “The app was so helpful for my son Diarmuid. He could visualise his hospital experience through the app and it really helped not only him but me to pre-

Registered Reflexologist

TERESA BURKE

BNS (Hons). M.Sc (Hons) (MNRRI)

Give your mind and body a relaxing experience with a reflexology treatment.

Through massage of the feet reflexology can:

• Rebuild energy levels in the body

• Assist in relieving stress

• Encourage relaxation

• Improve general well- being

Reflexology is based on the principle that the foot has “reflex” points that correspond to the various structures and organs throughout the body.

Contact TERESA for appointment at 087 9001212

Gift vouchers available.

Brideswell, Co. Roscommon N37 EW20

GAMBLING THERAPY AND FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICE

Gambling Therapy and Family Support

Service for people with a gambling problem or their affected families.

Based in Boyle Family Resource Centre and available county wide.

Contact: gamblingsupport@boylefrc.ie

or phone 086 0597441

Website: boylefrc.ie

pare. He loved the different characters and games and played the games all the way in the car to the hospital. It is also a great information tool for parents; we loved it, it’s a great resource”.

James Keane, Hospital Manager, said the introduction of the ‘Little Journey’ app is a fantastic example of the dedication of a multidisciplinary team.

The ‘Little Journey’ app is free to download from Google Play Store or App Store. It can be used on a smartphone in 2D or using a 3D virtual reality headset.

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

Get running with Roscommon Harriers!

Do you want to take up running or are you looking for a group of like-minded people to run with? Then why not join the crew at Roscommon Harriers Running Club?

Based in Roscommon town, the Harriers is a club which focuses on social running as well as competitive running. We cater for all abilities – from people who want to get fit or run a 5K to those training for marathons.

One of the key aims of the club is to provide a social outlet where members can meet other people and enjoy running in a safe and friendly environment.

Roscommon Harriers meet every Tuesday and Thursday evening and Sunday mornings. You don’t have to attend all sessions just come along whenever it fits in with your busy schedule!

If you are interested in joining our growing club, please message Roscommon Harriers Athletics Club on Facebook for additional details or email: rosharriers@gmail.com or call Frank on 086-1605075.

Your Health & Wellbeing

To

Get moving again with Enhanced Motion!

Based on Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Enhanced Motion Neuromuscular Therapy Clinic first opened its doors in July 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, the business, run by Ballinagare woman Liz Cummins, has gone from strength to strength…

Tell us a bit about Enhanced Motion…

Enhanced Motion is a Neuromuscular Therapy Clinic with myself (Liz Cummins), a neuromuscular therapist, and Conor McGreivy, who specialises in sports injuries, rehabilitation work and pre-assessments for those returning to sport, musculoskeletal pain and those suffering with chronic injuries, such as back, shoulder, neck or knee pain, and injuries or conditions that limit range of motion.

What kind of services are on offer here?

We have a wide range of services including dry needling, cupping, and athletic rehabilitation. Clients can also avail of a number of sports packages including deep tissue and sports massage and the use of sports recovery boots. Each appointment includes a full assessment, hands-on treatment and exercises to take home. Clients are given goals and we help to keep them accountable in their recovery.

What kind of clients do you work with?

We work with people of all ages and abilities. We’re lucky to work with one of the local GAA clubs here, Western Gaels Ladies, as well as other sports clubs. We also have a great working relationship with local doctors and they will recommend us to patients who are suffering from sports injuries or chronic pain and want private treatment.

Outside of physical treatments what other services do you offer?

Enhanced Motion offers mobility classes to the wider community and these are suitable for all levels and abilities. For example, on Mondays we have our advanced group and that’s focussed on general mobility and strength, core strength and functional movement. Then we have a class aimed at those of semi-retirement age, which we offer at the Family Resource Centre (FRC) in Ballaghaderreen. That class aims to educate people of proper posture for day-to-day living, when doing household chores for example.

We also give talks at the FRC and this enables people to ask us questions about their issues with mobility or pain. We also offer advice on dealing with long-term pain and give tips on breathing techniques and exercises.

This all sounds great! How do I book an appointment? You can book an appointment by calling 086-3786701, emailing enhancedmotionballa@gmail.com, or by visiting www.enhancedmotion.ie. Our clinic is open from 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm Friday, and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Keep up to date by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

Your Health & Wellbeing

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

Family carers seek long-term solutions to financial pressures

Family Carers Ireland says there is an urgent need for long-term solutions to address the financial hardship facing family carers amid a worsening cost-ofliving crisis.

The national charity representing Ireland’s 500,000 family carers says that the announcement of a €200 lump sum payment to all long-term social welfare recipients is welcome and may offer some temporary relief to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s Benefit.

However, full-time family carers who qualify for the non-means tested Carer’s Support Grant, but do not receive Carer’s Allowance because of the means test, will miss out.

Reacting to the Government’s announcement, Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy with Family Carers Ireland, said: “A survey of almost 1,500 family carers carried out by Family Carers Ireland in early 2022 found that over two-thirds of respond-

ents were experiencing financial distress. There is little doubt that inflation in recent months means there is now a greater number of family carers across the country struggling to pay their bills, keep their homes warm and put food on the table.

“We are urgently calling for reform of the Carer’s Allowance payment, moving it away from means testing towards adequate payment for work done, work that needs to valued and recognised in

our society”.

Catherine said Family Carers Ireland welcomed the additional €100 for those in receipt of Child Benefit and the €100 increase in Back to School Allowance.

“Whilst we acknowledge that efforts are being made to alleviate the cost-ofliving crisis in the short term, we must stress the need for long-term solutions to the many challenges facing those who care for loved ones at home, of which financial hardships are just one”.

Fundraising walk for Roscommon Parkinson’s Support Group

Roscommon Parkinson’s Support Group is hosting a fundraising walk, taking place at Oran GAA Club this April.

Roscommon Parkinson’s Support Group is growing and the members are now availing of Physiotherapy and Speech and Language classes weekly in Hannon’s Hotel.

National Accessibility

Taoiseach to open

Centre for Water Sports in Ballyleague

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will officially open the new National Accessibility Centre for Water Sports in Ballyleague this Friday (24th) at 11.30 am.

This national project has been developed by the board of directors, staff and volunteers of Lough Ree Access For All CLG and Lough Ree Angling Hub.

The building originally belonged to Waterways Ireland but has been leased by LRAFA CLG for use as a reception centre. People with a disability or otherwise have been visiting

the area from all over the country to take part in water sports.

The centre has a state-of-the-art Changing Places suite – a modern bathroom facility which includes showers, hoists, benches and adjustable sinks for wheelchair users. The building was built with funding provided by the Just Transition Fund through the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications at a cost of over €350,000 and also features a heritage exhibition on the islands of Lough Ree.

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 3pm

We also cater for large groups of teams and provide

CLASSES CATERING FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS!

Amazing 12 Transformation Program

The Amazing 12 Transformation Program is designed to produce extraordinary results for everyday people, for men and women with busy lives who want personal accountability, a structured workout & nutrition program to follow, and a coach to help keep them consistent and on-track. It is the start of their new lifestyle. Each program begins with a ‘technique week’ to teach you all the exercises and gauge your current level of strength and fitness. You will be coached and supported throughout all of your workouts to ensure you are doing everything safely to ensure you are effectively moving towards your goal of getting in the best shape possible within 12 weeks. Attendance is 5 x 1 hour sessions per week Monday to Friday at 7.15pm to 8.15pm – with weekends off! Over the course of the 12 weeks you will learn a lot about exercise and what’s best for your body. These skills and knowledge are priceless as you can maintain these habits for life and never have to fear walking into a gym ever again, or be unsure of what to do.

The word is spreading, and more people with Parkinson’s in Roscommon and surrounding areas are contacting the group to join.

The classes are proving to be of huge benefit both physically and socially.

Group chairperson Eddie Egan contacted Oran GAA Club, who kindly agreed to come on board to let the group use the walking area around their venue to host the fundraising walk and raise muchneeded funds to continue these classes.

The walk will take place on Sunday, April 16th at 2 pm at Oran GAA Club in Rockfield.

FITNESS PROGRAMMES IN ROSCOMMON With Full Body WorkHouse

FullBody Workhouse are here to help you build and maintain your new lifestyle. We boast the latest exercise equipment and techniques as well as staff that specialise in nutrition and physical therapy. We tailor packages to assist you in achieving both long and short term goals, whether an individual or a sports team.

How can we help?

Our personal trainers in Roscommon are amongst the best, providing the following services:

• Free ‘No Sweat Intro’ Consultation

• Private Membership

• Semi Private Membership

• Group Training

• Personalised Professional Programs

• A12 Amazing Transformation Program

• Nutritionist

• Sports Clubs and Schools Sports Specific Training

• Cryo Spa Therapy

Your Health & Wellbeing

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

Tully’s TotalHealth: Taking care of your health and wellbeing

Located on Main Street, Castlerea, the team at Tully’s Total Health Pharmacy offer a wide range of services for the local community, including advice and guidance when it comes to maintaining your health and wellbeing.

TotalHealth team member, Vicky Silver, says Tully’s is a one-stop shop for health and wellbeing check-ups.

“We offer a wide variety of services in store including blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol level checks, vaccinations for flu and Covid-19 and Covid boosters as well as a prescription service,” she said.

“Here at Tully’s TotalHealth we also have our Total Beauty section and a podiatrist who can take care of all your footcare needs”.

There are a number of ongoing promotions at Tully’s and staff members are always on hand to offer health and beauty advice and guidance.

“Right now, we have a range of promotions on offer including 20 per cent off Revive Active products, savings of up to €11 on our Udo’s Choice range, offers on Little Critters chewable vitamins, Medicare non-contact thermometers up to half price, and 20 per cent off on Cerave Skincare just to name a few,” Vicky said.

To avail of Tully’s TotalHealth’s wide range of services and offers, call in store at Main Street, Castlerea, or log on to tullyspharmacycastlerea.ie or keep an eye on Tully’s Pharmacy on Facebook and Instagram.

MEET THE TULLY’S TEAM…Samantha Dempsey

Tell us a bit about yourself… I’m 24-years-old and from Trien, just out the road. My parents are Jimmy and Jackie Dempsey and I have one brother, Ethan.

Where did you attend school?

I went to national school in Trien and secondary school in Castlerea. I then went on to study journalism in TU Dublin and really enjoyed that. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do when leaving school but English

was my favourite subject so I chose journalism.

How long have you been working at Tully’s Pharmacy?

I have been working at Tully’s as an Over The Counter Assistant for a year and a half, having joined the team in October 2021.

What have been some of the challenges you’ve faced since starting? This winter there has been a shortage

• Email: tullys.castlerea@totalhealth.ie

Current promotions

• 20% off Revive Active

• Up to €11 off Udo’s Choice range

• 20% off Cerave moisturising range

• Little Critters chewable vitamins from €9

• 25% off Klearvol range

• Up to 50% off Medicare non-contact thermometers

• 25% off Proceive supplements

Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

of antibiotics and other medications, so that has been a real test. It means calling doctors for alternative prescriptions when the original one isn’t available and that has added to our workload and theirs.

Do you enjoy working at Tully’s Totalhealth?

Yes! It’s always busy because there’s always some sort of dose going around! But there’s a really lovely atmosphere here and it’s a great place to work.

DELIVERY SERVICE

5 tips on how to improve your wellbeing this year

1: Sleeping well

An easy way to improve wellbeing is by simply getting a better night’s sleep. Having restful sleep will put you in a better mood and leave you feeling much more relaxed when you wake up in the morning. Sleep is also shown to help your brain function, as a lack of sleep tends to affect memory and decision-making skills. Ways to improve sleep include turning off electronics in the lead-up to bedtime, reducing caffeine intake and exercising during the day.

2: Exercise

Exercising is another way to improve wellbeing. Physical activity helps to diminish stress and boost energy levels.

Exercise is also another way to enhance your mood as your body releases chemicals called endorphins which trigger positive feelings or a natural high. Simply exercising for just 30 minutes a day will improve your wellbeing.

3: Good diet

A healthy, well-balanced diet can help us think clearly and feel more alert. It can also improve concentration and attention span. Eating lots of fruit and veg, not skipping breakfast and drinking plenty of water are all ways to better your health and refine your wellbeing.

4: Social interaction

Social connection and interaction benefit your wellbeing. Building strong relation-

ships with peers and family have been proven to reduce both anxiety and depression, promote higher self-esteem, greater empathy and also promote a sense of safety, belonging and security.

5: Hobbies

Hobbies help us keep busy and engaged. When you have an interest in activities and enjoy doing them, you take healthy steps to improve your emotional wellbeing. It also helps relieve pressure and stress from work and daily life. Finding new hobbies is great for strengthening your brain and boosting your mood.

*Daniel Tiernan is a transition year student at Roscommon CBS who is currently on work experience with Roscommon People.

Covid 19 Booster Vaccine (over

Your Health & Wellbeing

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

Vita House to host ‘Recovery from Trauma’ course

Vita House in Roscommon town is offering an eight-week course entitled ‘Recovery from Trauma’, which takes place on Wednesday evenings commencing March 8th

The course will be facilitated by Dr. Brian McClean, a Clinical Psychologist who works with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, and is available both online and in-person at Vita House on Abbey Street in Roscommon town. Dr. McClean says the series of classes will explore how to better cope with trauma.

“The emphasis is going to be on practical steps as to how we can get through trauma. People think of trauma as something that happened in the past but in fact it’s the way we respond to things in the present. It’s how we react to the body’s ‘alarm system’, how we respond to memories, and how we deal with that anxiety within ourselves,” he explains.

The course will examine how trauma affects the human body and what people can do to deal with this and live more mindfully in the present.

“It’s important to remember that there are two types of trauma,” Dr. McClean adds.

“There is the trauma that arrives from an accident like a car crash or sudden death, where the experience is simply unbearable or intolerable.

“But there’s another type of trauma where events are difficult in an ongoing way. For example, when caused by bullying or abuse. So it’s not just one event but a series of events which causes someone to put an alarm up around the heart”.

The Recovery from Trauma course at Vita House, which runs for four weeks prior to Easter and four weeks after, is suitable for everyone.

“Recovery from trauma is about, number one, getting into a safe space where we are able to be calm, and number two, actually approaching memories of the traumatic incident rather than avoiding them,” Dr. McClean says.

“We say ‘sit with the emotion’ those memories illicit and that involves practising an activity like mindfulness or meditation while bringing to mind the traumatic incident”.

The ‘Recovery from Trauma’ course starts at Vita House on Wednesday, March 8th and continues until March 29th before taking a two-week break for Easter. The course then resumes for a further four Wednesdays following the Easter break.

For more information on this or any of the services on offer at Vita House, Roscommon contact the office on Abbey Street by calling 090-6625898, emailing info@vitahouse.org, or clicking www.vitahouse.org

Your Health & Wellbeing

Ballinagare Health and Fitness: At the heart of the community!

Ballinagare Health and Fitness offers fitness classes, personal training, and activities for people of all ages and abilities. This week, Manager Shane McDermott (32) told Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner how the facility has become an important hub in the local community.

DD: Shane, tell us how you came to be involved in Ballinagare Health and Fitness?

SMcD: I’m originally from Elphin and started here in 2019 as a fitness instructor after coming back from five years in Finland and two years in Kenya.

DD: What brought you to Finland and Kenya?

SMcD: I was in Finland as part of Erasmus in college and went back there afterwards to work with local soccer clubs like FC Komeetat and JJK Jyvaskyla and the city council. I did my

Masters degree in Finland and through a classmate ended up working with football and rugby clubs in Kenya.

DD: Wow! Tell me about returning to Ireland to work with Ballinagare Health and Fitness.

SMcD: My first six months were normal enough and then Covid-19 broke out. That was challenging but we spent the lockdowns doing Zoom classes and painting and decorating the centre to freshen it up for reopening.

DD: What kind of classes can members avail of here?

SMcD: We have a variety of classes for all ages and abilities and during our off-peak hours (11.30 am to 5.30 pm) we offer one to one personal training. Members and local groups such as the Brothers of Charity are already availing of this. It’s

mainly for people in the locality but we have people dropping in from as far away as places like Boyle and Carrick too. We recently hosted a welcome party for Ukrainian families who recently arrived in Ballinagare and it would be great to see them making use of the facilities here. Sport can bring people together.

DD: The centre is obviously busy. What does a normal week look like?

SMcD: We have classes Monday to Friday at 6.15 am, 7.15 am, 10.30 am, 6 pm, 7.15 pm and 8.15 pm. At the moment we are running an Operation Transformation programme over nine weeks. We also have classes such as ‘Legs, Bums and Tums’, mobility classes, spinning, weight training, kettlebells, and Body Pump. On Tuesdays and Thursdays we have our ‘Go For Life’ classes aimed at the older generation. This varies

from week to week but includes light exercise and activities such as badminton.

DD: And you have classes for the younger generation too?

SMcD: Yeah, on Monday and Wednesday there are classes for 4 to 8 year olds. We do activities such as sports and also arts and crafts around Christmas and Halloween. On Tuesday and Thursday we have older kids

(9+) and they take part in sports such as Gaelic football, soccer, basketball, dodgeball, touch rugby etc.

DD: And the facility is also available for team training?

SMcD: Yes, I’m currently doing the Strength and Conditioning for the Roscommon Minors and Ladies footballers and the hall is available for other teams too.

soccer and basketball) in the hall or on the AstroTurf can be taken by one of our staff members who are fully qualified and passionate about training and coaching. Our AstroTurf costs €60 with floodlights and €50 without. Our opening hours are 6 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, and 9 am to 3 pm on Sundays. Contact us on 094-9870777 for further details.

New Class Timetable for March 2023

Ballinagare Health & Leisure Centre Ltd invites applications for

Ballinagare Health & Leisure Centre Ltd invites applications for Part-time Position Temporary GYM INSTRUCTOR

· Flexible attitude towards working 39 hours per week (Full-time) or 19.5 hours per week (part-time). (Monday to Sundays, earlies, lates this can be subject to change at manager’s discretion.)

· Carry out fitness assessments and create fitness programmes

· Conducting a variety of fitness classes including Spin, Suspension Training, Kettlebells, HIIT training and Circuit training.

· Always ensuring the highest level of customer service to all club members.

· Cleaning and maintenance of gym equipment and facility.

· Assisting Manager organise events i.e. children activity camps, fundraisers etc.

Essential requirements:

· Gym Instructor Qualification ITEC, NCEF, NCEHS, ASSM or equivalent.

· Fitness Class qualifications and experience in teaching a wide range of fitness classes.

· Desirable qualification in nutrition for weight loss plans, sports performance food plans.

Applicants need to be on Social Welfare Payments to qualify for this position. All applications are welcome, please be available to start in March 2023.

For further information call 094 98 70777. Please send CV to email: ballinagarehealthcentre@gmail.com CLOSING DATE: Open until Filled.

Your Health & Wellbeing

Mental Health focus…with Glynis Downey

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I’m originally from the UK and that’s where I started my training in counselling and psychotherapy. I had previously worked as a nurse for 38 years before beginning my training in Integrative and Transpersonal Psychotherapy. I moved to Ballymoe five years ago and the business was up and running just a year later. I want to thank my family and friends and my mum in particular for encouraging me to make the move. I also want to acknowledge my supervisor Billy Brogan for his support during that time.

How did you start on your current career path?

I qualified in 2001 as a Counselling Psychotherapist from

CCPE (Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy Education) in London and am a MBACP (Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists). It was because of my own life experiences and use of counselling as well as my wish to help others that I decided to move into this field following my work as a nurse. Since moving to Ballymoe I have continued my training. For example, I have completed a course in trauma, which is a really important area.

What services do you offer?

I offer a form of talking therapy. The Integrative side of my counselling includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamics, Gestalt, and

transactional analysis while the Transpersonal is more spiritual and includes Eastern philosophies. I also work with art and writing therapy.

I offer counselling for trauma, depression and anxiety, couples’ counselling, gender identity issues, post-addiction recovery, bereavement, illness, life crises, domestic violence, personality disorders, PTSD, low self-esteem and stress, to name just a few issues people may be experiencing.

Has there been an increase in demand for your services following Covid-19? Business has really picked up and it would have been growing over a period of time anyway. But yes, there has been

an increase since the pandemic with people suffering from post-Covid trauma. In Ireland there has also been an increase in the number of men seeking help as well as younger people in college. It’s more obvious now that younger people are suffering from anxiety. It’s really good to see that they can take the initiative to seek help. There’s much more awareness

of the services that are out there now too.

When should someone seek your help?

First and foremost, people should always seek help when experiencing suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm. Also, when you feel overwhelmed or are experiencing intrusive thoughts which impact on your

daily life. I like to describe the feeling as though you’re tied up in rubber bands and just can’t unravel them. I think it’s important to realise that there’s a lot to be learned from the therapy journey. You learn so much about yourself. People have a lot more gold in them than they realise and sometimes it’s just a matter of digging a little deeper to discover it.

Your Health & Wellbeing

Time to get fit in 2023?

‘Just Go’ for it!

Tooreen native, Joey Ganley, established Just Go Fitness in Ballyhaunis in 2018 before opening up shop in Castlerea in 2022. Speaking to Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner this week, Joey says there has been a shift in the fitness landscape during that time…

DD: Hi Joey, tell us a bit about your business…

JG: I studied business in recreation and leisure at IT Sligo and worked as a personal trainer/gym manager in Ballinrobe for seven years. It was always in my head to open my own gym so I started with fitness classes in Ballyhaunis. I

then opened Just Go in Ballyhaunis in 2018 and then took over the gym at The Hub in Castlerea in 2022.

DD: How did Covid-19 affect operations?

JG: We pivoted really well and offered online classes and coaching during the lockdowns. Then we adhered to the guidelines during the reopening by offering outdoor classes. Covid changed the business model and we went from bigger groups to smaller classes. People really liked it so we kept that model when reopening the gym in Castlerea.

DD: What kind of chal-

lenges does the average gym member face?

JG: Accountability is a big one. People can really struggle to know what to do in the gym. They’ll go in and do a few minutes on the treadmill or on the machines but they won’t really be getting anywhere. Having a coach or a personal trainer means there’s accountability and structure.

DD: Have people become more aware of the importance of exercise since you first started in the Irish fitness industry?

JG: I think since Covid people have learned to appreciate the importance of health that bit more.

Not just the physical side but also when it comes to mood and stress and anxiety too. People are looking after themselves a bit more and maybe not going out drinking every weekend. They’ve also learned to appreciate the benefits of that

release of endorphins after working out!

DD: What can members expect at Just Go Fitness?

JG: We work in smaller groups of six to eight people and it’s not like one big workout or a boot camp.

Members have individual plans within that group so we have those who are starting out and others with a bit more experience. We also offer online coaching for people living further away and that involves advice on nutrition and

training programmes and accountability on your fitness journey. There’s also open gym access for members through their key fob, which allows them to work on their own individual programmes when it suits them.

Your Health & Wellbeing

Keep moving with tips from Physio First

Physio First is run by Chartered Physiotherapist Lauren Naughton MISCP and is located just off Main Street in Roscommon town (F42 HC94). This week, Lauren answered Roscommon People reporter Dan Dooner’s questions on all things movement…

What services do you offer at Physio First?

I help people to move better, feel better and live happier lives by assessing injuries and discovering the source of people’s pain. I love to educate people so they can understand more about their injury in order to overcome their pain. I use a mixture of manual therapy as well as move-

ment similar to Pilates and try to base rehabilitation around flexibility and exercise. It all boils down to what the person enjoys and creating a regime around their lifestyle. If you can increase a person’s confidence and build their resilience and strength then they can continue doing the things in life they love.

What advice would you give to those returning to exercise after a lengthy period?

Start slowly and sensibly and pick something you enjoy doing. If you enjoy doing it then it’s not going to seem like hard work. Run, swim, dance, gym, yoga, walk, garden – it doesn’t matter because it

all counts. The enjoyment keeps you involved. Start slowly once a week then build it up to twice a week and three times a week and so on. Pick a time that fits best during the day so that you can stay consistent.

How can we prevent injuries and when should we step back?

If you’ve started a New Year health kick then be consistent and steady. Remember it’s a journey you’re undertaking not a 100m race. If you’re a beginner, don’t try and train every single day because the likelihood of injuring yourself increases. If you do have an injury, whether it’s muscle aches or joint pain, then you might need

to back off a little bit. If the pain remains and you can’t get back into your routine that’s when you need to consult a doctor or a physiotherapist.

What is the best way to maintain mobility into old age?

Movement of any kind. We are made to move and we don’t like to be stationery. There’s no such thing as good or bad movement;

it’s just doing something regularly. For people with a desk-based job like yourself, where you may be stuck for several hours, then the key is to move when opportunities arrive. Can you stand up to take a call? Take regular short walks even if it’s just to boil the kettle. Flexibility work is great too and I think people enjoy activities such as yoga and Pilates.

For those short on time, what daily movements would you recommend?

So let’s say you have 15 minutes a day to get some movement in...

I would focus on basic strength because it is so important as we get older. By having strong muscles and bones we reduce our risk of falls and improve our ability to do everyday tasks. My top three simple exercises would involve

holding a couple of weights in your hands (water bottles for example). Exercise one involves standing up out of a chair and then sitting back down fifteen times; Exercise two is reaching the weights above your head ten times; Exercise three is pushing up onto your ‘tiptoes’ fifteen times. Once a day is enough to start and you can always build from there. Remember motion is lotion, rest is rust!

l Therapy for all ages

l Musculoskeletal Injuries

l Paediatrics

l Sports Injuries

At Physio First we take the time to get to know you, complete a thorough assessment of your condition, provide a diagnosis and work with you to create a treatment plan based on your goals while ensuring it fits into your lifestyle. To help with your rehabilitation there is an in-house gym where we will take you through an appropriate exercise programme which you will be able to replicate in your home environment.

As our physiotherapists are registered with CORU and the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists you can rest assured that you are receiving the most up to date and evidence based treatment to ensure your road to recovery is successful.

The clinic is situated in the heart of Roscommon Town with plenty of free parking available nearby. We are also fully wheelchair accessible and offer early morning, evening and weekend appointments in special circumstances.

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300

Email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com

Web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES, RUNNERS AND WEANLINGS

YARD OPENS AT 7.30 A.M.

ALL SALES START AT 11 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION.

VIEWING TIME AT 10 A.M.

MONDAY 13TH MARCH: BULLOCK SALE

(PLEASE NOTE AS AND FROM 13TH MARCH: BULLOCK SALE RESUMES ON MONDAYS.)

FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

Castlerea MART WATCH

Larger numbers of stock presented for sale this week but demand and trade remains buoyant at the moment with a large attendance of buyers present and online very active as well. Farmers, agents, exporters, and Northern buyers are also very active at the moment. Bullocks topped out at €2,460, heifers made up to €2,910 while the dry cows made up to €2,240. The weanlings, with increased numbers on offer, witnessed the bulls peaking at €4.18 a kilo while the heifer weanlings made up to €3.97 a kilo. Increased numbers of suck calves resulted in a good clearance while breeding stock made up to €2,500.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart today (Thursday) with our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners, and weanlings.

All sales commence at 11 am with three rings in operation.

Please note that weekly bullock sales resume on Monday, March 13th.

Sample prices for bullocks: BAX 470kgs €1680, Lm 445kgs €1510, Lm 525kgs €1880, Ch 510kgs €1760, Ch 580kgs €2130, Lm 590kgs €1980, AA 630kgs €1950, Ch 760kgs €2460, Ch 710kgs €2340, Hex 695kgs €2000, Ch 710kgs €2130.

Heifers: Lm 425kgs €1380, Lm 425kgs €1360, Lm 395kgs €1330, Lm 490kgs €1590, Ch 480kgs €1500, AA 480kgs €1470, Ch 455kgs €1440, AA 950kgs €2910, Ch 665kgs €2160, Ch 615kgs €2040, Lm 610kgs €1900, Lm 635kgs €1990.

Dry cows: Sax 760kgs €2230, Sim 810kgs €2160, Lm 690kgs €1880, AA 735kgs €1880, Fr 730kgs €1490, AA 630kgs €1400, Lm 500kgs €1350, Fr 745kgs €1530.

Weanling bulls: Lm 290kgs €1100, AA 280kgs €1030, AA 280kgs €1000, Ch 265kgs €930, AA 225kgs €900, Lm 290kgs €1080, Lm 335kgs €1170, Ch 430kgs €1460, Lm 470kgs €1480, Ch 300kgs €1140, Lm 330kgs €1130.

Weanling heifers: Ch 290kgs €1060, BBx 280kgs €990, Ch 235kgs €890, AA 270kgs €820, Ch 390kgs €1460, Ch 340kgs €1350, PTx 310kgs €1170, Ch 335kgs €1100, Ch 310kgs €990, AA 350kgs €1200, Ch 335kgs €1240.

Roscommon MART WATCH

There was a large entry of stock on offer at last Friday’s special heifer sale with a very strong trade for all classes. Heifers fetched from an average of €3.08 per kilo up to €4.78 per kilo. Dry cows made an average of €2.58 per kilo up to €3.15 per kilo. There was a good attendance of customers at the ring-

McConalogue to visit Lough Funshinagh next week

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue is set to visit Lough Funshinagh next week in order to meet with farm families who have been affected by flooding at the lake.

Commenting on the visit this week, local Senator Eugene Murphy said the visit would take place on Tuesday next.

“The visit was due to take place

FarmingPeople Farming Desk

some months ago but due to the tragedy in Creeslough in Donegal, the Minister had to cancel and I am now glad that at my request the Minister is arriving on Tuesday,” he said.

“I am hoping that the Minister will call personally to the effected families. I also intend to invite all local councillors along”. Senator Murphy said there would also be an opportunity later that evening to discuss the matter at an open forum in at the Abbey

EPA report is flawed – IFA

IFA President Tim Cullinan has said that the Land Use Review report, commissioned by the EPA, is “fundamentally flawed” due to the use of internatonal averages for emissions rather than those from Ireland.

He has called on the Government to immediately reject the document, which he says excludes any mention of farm income, family farm an rural communities and only references ‘farms’ on three occasions in 36 pages.

“It is not an exaggeration to say that this report realises farmers’ worst fears and outlines scenarios without consideration for farmers, families and communities,” he said.

“Real sustainability is based on three pillars, economic, environmental and social. If implemented, it would effectively wipe out communities outside of large urban centres”.

side with online bidders also active.

We had a smaller number of sheep on offer at our weekly sale of lambs and cast ewes.

Prices for finished hoggets peaked at €140. The tops for stag ewes fetched €184. Inlamb ewes made from €180 up to €220 while a ewe with two

ICSA alarm at ‘over the top’ pesiticide proposals

ICSA Tillage Chairperson

Gavin Carberry has expressed his alarm at what he describes as an “over the top” report on the rugulation of sustainable pesiticides.

“This report by Sarah Wiener MEP indicates that the European Parliament is prepared to go even further than the European Commission proposals by favouring an 80 per cent reduction in pesticide use - instead of the 50 per cent reduction proposed by the Commission,” he said.

“This is a completely over the top move particularly in advance of viable plant protection alternatives becoming available. It must be resisted at every level”.

Mr. Carberry said he is calling for an urgent assessment of the impact that furthering these proposals will have on crop yields and food security.

lambs at foot made up to €295. The next sale of lambs and cast ewes takes place next Wednesday (March 1st) at 11 am. Yard opens at 8 am and all stock must be penned by 10 am. Sale can be viewed on www.livestocklive.com.

Sample prices for dry cows: Lim X 930kgs €2730, Char X

Hotel. The forum will commence at 7.30 pm and is being organised by Fianna Fáil members locally.

“I am urging all that have an interest in farming or any aspect of rural life to come along and have your say. I intend to drive this rural agenda very strongly at our Parliamentary Party meeting and have been doing so over the past few years,” Senator Murphy added.

“The purpose of this forum is to bring everyone together and take

on board what farmers are saying.

“There will be environmental challenges no matter who is in power in the future but we must recognise the efforts already made by the farming community towards a cleaner environment”.

Ahead of the Minister’s visit to the county, Senator Murphy acknowledged the “huge challenges” facing the sheep sector but said he was confident Minister McConalogue would “come up with the extra support”.

Mountbellew Mart reopens following recent suspension

Buyers and sellers were back in attendance at Mountbellew Mart last Saturday after a temporary suspension of the mart’s licence was lifted on Thursday, February 16th.

The licence had been suspended after the Property Services Regulatorty Authority (PSRA) launched legal proceedings after it was discovered there was a deficit at the mart due to historical debt.

The mart released the following statement this week: “The temporary suspension of the mart’s li-

860kgs €2580, Lim X 680kgs €2140, Lim X 825kgs €2570, SIX 820kgs €2370, Lim X 775kgs €2300, Lim X 825kgs €2570, Lim X 735kgs €2260, Char X 740kgs €2240 Lim X 765kgs €2240, AUX 730kgs €2180.

Heifers: Lim X 500kgs €2390, Char X 650kgs €2225, BAX

cence was lifted on Thursday last (February 16th).

The temporary suspension related to an ongoing deficit due to an historical bad debt incurred over a decade ago as a result of two major defaulters.

“The mart committee would like to express their appreciating to our local representative Michael Fitzmaurice TD, whose work on behalf of Mountbellew Mart was pivotal to ensuring that the mart returned to trading last Saturday.

“The mart committee would like to thank the local business community of Mountbellew and the many customers of the mart for their support, ensuring that the mart returned to trading last Saturday after a twoweek break”.

640kgs €2160, Char X 570kgs €2000, Lim X 595kgs €2050, Lim X 600kgs €1970, Char X 605kgs €1970, Char X 595kgs €1940, Char X 585kgs €1900, Char X 570kgs €1890, Lim X 570kgs €1920, Lim X 565kgs €1850, Char X 560kgs €1860, Lim X 540kgs €1830, Char X 540 €1840, Lim X 560kgs

‘Fertiliser price reductions must be passed on to farmers’

The IFA has this week called on merchants and co-ops to “pass on” significant reductions in global fertiliser prices to farmers. The association says that a significant drop in the price of natural gas of up to 85 per cent since last September should lead to a significant reduction in fertiliser prices but this has not yet happened.

The IFA called on co-ops and merchants to “step up” and avoid the cost of inputs struggles faced by farmers in 2022.

€1800, Char 570kgs €1860, Lim X 705kgs €2210, Char X 600kgs €1990,Char X 615kgs €1960

Finished Hoggets: 57.3kgs €140, 68kgs €140, 56.6kgs €139, 51.8kgs €138, 52.3kgs €137, 53.1kgs €136, 49.7kgs €135, 47.6kgs €132, 45.3kgs €122, 43kgs €113.

Sale of Bullocks

and Heifers

Friday, March 3rd at 11 a.m.

Special Sale of Heifers

Also Dry Cows and Bullocks

Bookings accepted until Monday, 27th February at 5 p.m.

Tuesday, February 28th at 4 p.m.

Show and Sale of Weanlings

Class 1: Best Weanling Bull

Class 2: Best Weanling Heifer

Prizes: 1st €100, 2nd €65, 3rd €40 Weanlings must be born in exhibitors own herd in 2022

Bookings accepted until Thursday, 23rd February at 5 p.m. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stock must be penned by 9.30 a.m. – Gates close at 10 a.m.

Note: Sheep Scanning Service will NOT be available on Wednesday, 1st March but will resume on Wednesday, 8th of March

Roscommon town woman appointed RBK’s new director of corporate finance

RBK Chartered Accountants are delighted to announce the appointment of Roscommon native Jennifer Brennan as corporate finance director.

Jennifer has been with RBK since 2016 and has experience in the provision

of corporate finance services across a broad range of transactions, including M&A, debt and equity fundraising, due diligence, and forensic accounting assignments.

Commenting on her promotion, Jennifer said: “I’m

delighted to be promoted to director and excited to be part of such a dynamic and growing corporate finance team.

“It’s great to be part of a firm that is so supportive and values employee development, and I look

forward to contributing further to the continued growth of RBK”.

Commenting on the announcement, corporate finance partner Chris Ball said: “I’m thrilled that Jennifer’s experience and positive impact in the firm has been recognised with this promotion. I have every confidence that she will continue to be a strong leader in the delivery of first class service and solutions to clients whilst developing our team”.

A native of Roscommon town, Jennifer is a Member

of Chartered Accountants Ireland and holds an LL.M in Law, Governance and Technology from NUIG as well as an LL.B. in Law and European Studies from UL.

Having trained with KPMG, Jennifer gained five years’ experience in KPMG’s Corporate Restructuring and Insolvency department. Prior to this she also worked in the Central Procurement Office of the European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt and in various law firms in both Ireland and Australia.

Ibec responds to cost of living package

Ibec, the group which represents Irish businesses, says that cost-ofliving and cost of doing business measures announced by Government this week, will support business confidence and activity.

The group said that many of the measures will be welcomed by industry, including amendments to the Temporary Business Energy Supports Scheme (TBESS), and the extension of 9 per cent VAT for the hospitality and experience sector.

Commenting on the measures, Executive Director Fergal O’Brien said: “The support levels to date have been below that seen in other European countries, so this week’s announcement will go some way to addressing the competitive disadvantage many businesses have faced in recent months”.

Sidero: 27% of IT groups aim to be carbon neutral by 2030

A survey of 111 IT organisations by Athlone-based Sidero, found that just over a quarter (27%) have set targets to become carbon neutral by 2030.

The survey also found that environmental considerations play a significant role in business decisions for 44 per cent of respondents while a third said the same about purchasing decisions. Some 35 per cent have made changes to their supply chain to become a more sustainable organisation.

However, a significant proportion (19%) of tech

leaders do not view sustainability as a priority right now with 14 per cent describing it as “too costly”.

Report: One in two expect to work beyond retirement age

One in every two workers expect to work beyond the national retirement age of 66 due to changes to the State pension system, according to a survey carried out by Royal London Ireland.

Major changes to the State pension were announced last September and will be introduced on a phased basis commencing in January of next year.

The survey, carried out by iReach with 1,000 adults, found that more women would opt to take a lower pension before the age of 66 (45 per cent v 37 per cent) while more men would like to be able to take a higher pension at a later date (27 per cent v 21 per cent).

VAT extension welcomed locally

Roscommon hoteliers have this week welcomed the Government’s decision to extend the 9 per cent tourism VAT rate and reform the energy support scheme for businesses.

President of the Irish Hotels Federation, Denyse Campbell, said the

measures provide greater certainty as they grapple with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

“A vibrant tourism industry is one of the most effective ways to spread employment opportunities and prosperity throughout the entire country. That is why the decision to extend the 9 per cent VAT rate is so critical for communities and regions that rely on tourism as a major employer and driver of economic activity”.

The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) has also welcomed the extension of 9 per cent VAT and changes to the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme. Its Chief Executive Paul Clancy warned, however, that while the measures were welcome, the external pressures on businesses would continue for the foreseeable future.

Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan also said the extension of the VAT rate was “vital for tourism in the northwest”.

Is public transport reform on the right track?

Let’s talk about ...

I ran into a friend in Roscommon train station one Sunday evening recently, both of us with bags in tow, set to head off back to our respective cities for the upcoming college week. I was going to Galway, and she was heading to Cork… so naturally we were both there for the Dublin train.

This is, of course, the accepted fate around travelling by train in Ireland considering how our rail network is laid out; all tracks lead to Dublin (or at the very least, they have since regional railway networks were slashed in the 1960’s). As such, any long route across Ireland seems to end up involving at least some stretch spent on that Heuston train, regardless of the detour it may cause. That RoscommonGalway trip for me might’ve just meant a stop-over in Athlone, but those travelling with my friend from Roscommon to Cork had to go all the way to Dublin before making their changeover.

The inconvenience (and long-term waste of resources) that this flaw in our rail network inevitably leads to is one of the common complaints people voice when talking about Ireland’s transport system. It’s a clearcut example of how gaps in the current system and access problems are hindering us from making the push towards greater public transport usage that we should be aiming to make – for both environmental and fiscal reasons.

A sustained, across-the-board move by Irish citizens towards using public transport would not only serve to drastically lower carbon emissions and save people money, an increase in demand would lead to more resources going towards the system being even further developed. The problem is, even if a huge swathe of the population decided to ditch the car forever from today on, unless you’re living around Dublin, odds are that public transport alone simply won’t be able to get you around – or at the very least, it won’t be able to as effectively.

Dublin of course forms a central part of the

conversation around Ireland’s public transport, from intercity transport to the all-roads/trackslead-to-Dublin aspect of our national transport network. But outside of the capital, it’s important to note the comparative lack of transport links between other cities, towns, and rural areas, and the lack of public transport options within other areas in general.

Even in Galway, one of our more populated urban centres, the inadequacies of intercity transport are blatantly apparent. Traffic congestion has always been a big problem cited about the city, with ever-contentious proposals to construct a ring road to bypass Galway often put forward as the solution. And in terms of public transport, the city suffers from a lack of bus lanes, which feeds into the general unreliability and frequency problems that already exist (I think overall, I’ve spent more time at Galway bus stops than on Galway buses).

However, disregarding entirely the obvious results that would arise from large-scale infrastructural investment such as constructing ring roads or bus lanes, there is much that can be done with less investment that would still have a significant impact – and that would lead to results soon, not a few years down the line once construction is completed. For example, while Galway would indeed benefit from designated bus lanes, simply creating more routes and adding more buses to existing routes would do a lot to improve accessibility, frequency, convenience, and reliability in the short-term.

It’s not as if people need a lot of convincing to opt for public transport more often. Sure, some people (due to preference or a lack of other options) are going to be inclined to travel by car no matter what, but by making small changes to improve accessibility, people will be much more inclined to use public transport.

We have seen this clearly post-Covid; in so many other countries, the amount of people using public transport has yet to recover after plummeting during pandemic restrictions, yet Ireland has managed to avoid that fate. According to figures put out by the National Transport Authority earlier this month, Ireland’s public transport ridership has returned to pre-pandemic levels, with some areas even reporting a slight increase in numbers, and this achievement is in no small part due to measures implemented in 2021 and 2022 to improve accessibility via enhanced Local Link and Bus Eireann services, and also the recent 50% cut in fares for under-24s travelling with state-subsidised public transport operators.

It’s no secret that the actual set-up of Ireland’s

public transport system has much room for improvement, and in order to tackle this problem most effectively we do have to invest in more large-scale infrastructural solutions. However, we can’t deny the huge achievements that can be made by improving accessibility within the current infrastructure alone – doing exactly this is what enabled us to replenish post-restriction ridership so quickly when other countries couldn’t.

The more we improve accessibility in the short-term (making travel more affordable, convenient, etc.), the more people will opt for

public transport. This in turn will lead to more money being pumped into the sector, which can go towards larger-scale infrastructural changes in the long-term. Right now, inaccessibility is possibly the biggest obstacle in getting people to use public transport, so this is where our focus should be, and it’s encouraging to see that this is a direction we’ve been prioritising more the past few years. If this continues, it would seem that Ireland’s public transport system, despite its flaws, is finally on the right ‘track’ towards improvement.

Single-sex schooling a remnant of a bygone era

A new University of Limerick study published this week has found that there is no significant difference in academic performance between children attending single-sex or mixed schools in Ireland.

Attending an all-girl school, I remember often hearing that girls do better in same-sex schools than mixed ones, and that the opposite was true for boys. Apparently however, this belief is predicated on decadesold anecdotal research, and does not account for various relevant socioeconomic factors. UL’s recent study however, did

consider these factors, and in doing so found that there was, in fact, no such difference. The prevalence of singlesex schooling in Ireland is a remnant of a bygone era, one deeply intertwined with wildly outdated Catholic ideals surrounding how much boys and girls should be allowed interact. Their existence is increasingly hard to justify, not just because we now know there’s no academic benefits, but also since it’s not unreasonable to suggest that segregating the sexes in schooling can have a significant negative impact, both societally

and in terms of students’ interpersonal relationships and mental health. What logic is there really to keeping schools same-sex? It can’t be better for young people’s development, and it evidentially isn’t better for them academically. Samesex schooling is undeniably a remnant of a bygone era, one which ends up stunting students’ socialisation and reinforcing outdated customs around gender and sex. Perhaps seeing research like UL’s will be the instigator we need to finally begin the process of leaving same-sex schooling in the past.

Twinning committee plans 25-year celebration trip to France

The Roscommon Chartrettes Twinning Committee are inviting individuals or groups who are interested in travelling to Chartrettes, France, this June as part of the organisation’s 25-year celebrations, to a meeting on Wednesday, March 1st, at 8 pm in Gleeson’s, Roscommon.

The 25-year celebration will take place from June 23rd to 26th. French families from the Chartrettes locality will host the Roscommon group.

This event follows on from a momentous 21st anniversary celebration in Roscommon in 2019, which was greatly supported by Roscommon County Council and the local community.

At the recent AGM of the Twinning

Committee, the following officers were appointed: Noel Connolly was elected Chairperson; Eamonn Gleeson was elected Assistant Chairperson; Marie Mitchell was elected Secretary; Patricia Morris was elected Treasurer; Bill Cunningham was elected Cultural Director and Orla Leyden was elected as PRO. The twinning has enabled many exchanges of young people and adults between both towns over twentyfive years. It is a great chance to experience French culture and language. Traditional musicians, singers and dancers form an important part of the cultural exchanges, and we welcome a wide variety of cultural groups getting involved.

The committee endeavours to develop opportunities for Irish-French commerce, cultural exchange, and to facilitate opportunities for young people from Roscommon to travel to Chartrettes to further their French language knowledge and understanding of French culture.

If you have been involved with the twinning over the 25 years and would like to revisit the ‘joie de vivre’, or if you want to come along and experience Chartrettes for the first time, we invite you to a tripplanning meeting on the Wednesday, 1st of March at 8 pm in Gleeson’s.

All are welcome to attend. On y va!

PropertyPeople

Prime Lanesboro home new to the market with RE/MAX Team Earley

This week, Cathal Meares of RE/MAX Team Earley is delighted to present to the market a prime threebedroomed, semi-detached residence, presented in excellent condition inside and out, and situated at 11 Cnoc Na Gaoithe, Lanesboro.

Downstairs accommodation comprises of a reception room, entrance hall, living room with built-in solid fuel stove, kitchen/ dining room, utility room, and guest WC. Upstairs there are three bedrooms (one ensuite) and a main

family bathroom with power shower. Overall, the floor area is 1,166 square feet.

The property features an enviable, mature, southfacing garden, complete with a selection of choice plants. There is also a gravelled front, side and rear garden making for low maintenance gardening.

The property is situated in Lanesboro town, within just a short walking distance of all local amenities like shops, coffee shops, schools, riverside and woodland walks etc. The

property is also only a ten minute drive from Roscommon and Longford.

The BER rating for this property is C3, and the auctioneer highly recommends viewing of this ready-to-go property.

For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stonecourt, Roscommon, on 090-6626579, email teamearley@remax.ie, log onto teamearley.ie, or contact auctioneer Cathal directly on 086-1409158.

ALCOHOLICS

ANONYMOUS

< ALCOHOLICS ANONY -

MOUS: Roscommon Town Group, Castle Street, Roscommon. Eir Code: F42

RP21 (1st Floor). Meet-

ings: Tuesday 8pm to 9pm, Wednesday 1pm to 2pm, Thursday 8pm to 9pm, Friday 8pm to 9pm, Saturday 8pm to 9pm, Sunday 12 noon to 1.pm.

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

CCTV CAMERA INSPECTIONS

• Firebacks replaced and flues repaired

• Can be cleaned from the bottom up

• Chimney cowls and crow guards fitted Power washing and gutter cleaning services.

Telephone: 087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CONNAUGHT

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Chimneys Power Sweep ( no mess)

- Openfire - Stoves - Ranges

Chimney CCTV Inspection

OIL BOILERS SERVICED

Burners Repaired

CARPETS CLEANING

Satellite and Digital TV Installation

All areas covered Mob: 086 2495851

www.connaughtchimney cleaning.com

Creighton

Chimney Cleaning

Fireplaces, Stoves, Ranges etc.

Modern Rotary Chimney Cleaning equipment used from the bottom up. Much cleaner than brushes, CCTV check if required.

Areas covered: Castlerea, Strokestown, Elphin, Castleplunkett, Tulsk, Lanesboro, Roscommon Town, Killashee, Carrickon-Shannon, Scramogue, Rooskey, Kenagh, Tarmonbarry, Ballymahon and all surrounding areas. No climbing on roofs, tiles or slates, no mess, no fuss.

Fully Registered. Call Dave on 085 8888833

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIROPRACTOR

Kathleen’s Mobile

Footcare

Professional and friendly footcare in the comfort of your own home.

Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Care Practitioner 086 3562718 kathleenwynne63@gmail.com www.kathleensmobilefootcare.ie

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING

Are you affected byAnger 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

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?

Online counselling available. Please call Glynis on 085 2514394

email: downeyglynis@yahoo.co.uk

web: www.psychotherapyglynisdowney.com

CONSTRUCTION

Stephen Casey Construction

Submit your

Classified online

Send your Classified advertisement to advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie or alternatively call 090 66 34633

Claims

Co. Roscommon 087 9268424

stephenrockcasey@ gmail.com

FARMING

< FOR SALE: Excellent quality square bales of hay, delivered in lots to suit. Ideal hay for sheep and calves. Call Tom: 086 2628439

FOR SALE

< FOR SALE: Pine round extendable table and 4 chairs, perfect condition. Phone: 087 9954908

< FOR SALE: Bale carrier in good condition and perfect working order also land leveller in good condition. Phone Anthony/Gerard 085 2728209 or 085 7432929 anytime.

< FOR SALE: Chain Harrow, 10x6 Tipping Trailer, Viking Fertiliser Spreader, back wheels for a Massey 35 good quality. Phone: 087 7733181

FENCING/GATES

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

GARDENING

FRANCIS REGAN FENCING LTD

For all your fencing needs.

l GLAS Fencing

l Grant Fencing

l Post Rail

Tel: 087 2172281

GATELY GARDENING

Four Roads, Co. Roscommon

• Landscaping

• Timber Decking

• Patios

• General Maintenance Contact Liam on 086 8749550 or 090 66 27496

GARDENING

JOE HEALY Tree Services

• Hedge Cutting

• Dangerous Tree Removal

• Wood Chipping

• Fully Insured

Phone: 087 2721193

GARDENING

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

CORBETT

• 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.parklaw treeservices.com

Kerins

Plant Ltd

Tree Care & Plant Hire

Residential & Commercial Tree Care

l Tree removal

l Tree crowning

l Site clearance and mulching

l Wood chipping

l Stump grinding

l Fully insured and certified

Telephone: 087-3477546

Email: kerinsplantcivilsltd @gmail.com

TREE CARE & LANDSCAPING

l General Maintenance

l Dangerous Tree Removal

l Garden Hedges & Trees reduced and shaped

l Wood Chipping

l Fully Insured

Tommy’s Trees & Hedging

FOR SALE

We supply all types of trees and hedging, Laurel, Beech, Whitethorn, Oak, Elder Birch, Dog Rose, Gelder Rose, Crab Apple, Wild Cherry and Holly.

Suitable for ACRES & GLAS Scheme and REPS Scheme. Can be delivered Card payment accepted.

Phone: 087 4177148

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

GARDENING

Mop & Mow

Ballaghaderreen Garden & Property Services

l Grasscutting

l Strimming/ Brushcutting

l Hedge cutting

l Weeding/spraying

l Light chainsaw work

l Cleaning

l Pressure washing

Husband

Email: mopandmow@ icloud.com

Telephone: 085 868 4169

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I am applying on behalf of St Dominic’s G.A.A. Club for planning permission for the following development works at the club grounds at Gailey, Knockcroghery :

A. Relocation and replacement of perimeter fence to main pitch

B. Realignment of bottom steps on Spectator Stand

C. Provision of additional on site car parking spaces

D. Provision of flood lighting to pitches

E. Provision of tertiary sewerage treatment plant together with percolation system for dispersal of treated effluent

F. Relocation of existing ball wall on grounds

G. All other ancillary development works associated with proposed development

Signed: Michael O’Connor, Chairperson St. Domininc’s GAA Club

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, David McHugh and Laura Bartkeviciute, intend applying to Roscommon County Council for (a)

Retention Planning Permission for Domestic Fuel Store attached to the existing garage and (b) Planning Permission to Convert Existing Attic Area to Habitable Space with all associated site development works at Carrowbaun Td, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon. F45

E084

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

Signed: Michael Hennessy Advanced Planning & Design Services Ltd, 15A North West Business & Technology Park, Castlecarra Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 086 1701549

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Seamus Moran intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of the following:

1. Retention of access entrance to site with gates and piers onto public minor road.

2. Elevational changes to dwelling.

3. Pitched roof over front entrance lobby.

4. Upgrading of existing percolation area by extending pipework.

5. Associated works and services.

All at Cappagh, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural + Design Services Ltd.

Architects Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, The Board of Management of Tarmon National School intend to apply for Permission for Retention and Permission for the following:

(1) Permission for Retention is sought for existing Temporary Car Park.

(2) Permission is sought for the construction of a single storey extension to the rear (north-east) of existing school consisting of 1 Classroom SEN Base, Early intervention Classroom, Multisensory Room, 3 Mainstream Classrooms, Office, Storage Area and necessary circulation areas, demolition of existing storage areas, provision of additional car parking spaces, upgrading of foul and surface water treatment systems, together with all associated site works at Tarmon National School, Ballinphuill Td & Termon Beg Td, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd. Engineers & Architects Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090) 66 34421 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

COUNCIL

We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Michael Caufield for planning permission for development of construction of a slatted shed with underground slurry storage tank along with all associated site works at Corrasluastia, Ballinlough, Castlerea, Co.Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning Authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo.

Telephone: 094 9253742

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Carroll Consultancy, are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Pat and Brian Murray for planning permission for Development consisting of demolition of existing dry bedded shed & construction of new milking parlour, dairy, plant room, roofed handling facility, slatted cubicle sheds and underground slurry storage tanks along with all associated site works at Carrowduff Upper, FourMile-House, Roscommon. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning Authority during its opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submission or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant the application.

Signed: Carroll Consultancy, Bridge Street, Swinford, Co. Mayo. Telephone: 094 9253742

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Dan O’Brien, intend to apply for planning permission for development at this site at Cloonybeirne, Lanesboro Rd., Roscommon, Co. Roscommon F42WY27. The development will consist of the construction of a proposed single storey house extension to the side of the existing dwelling house and all associated site works and services. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Dan O’Brien

PLANNINGS

PODIATRIST

Design Consultation Planning Applications

New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design

Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural 086 3482387

info@moleskinarchitecture.com

facebook.com/moleskinarch

Podiatrist/Chiropodist Sarah Fleming

CB.Sc (Hons) Podiatry MScPI

Sarah will be in Tullys Totalhealth Pharmacy, Castlerea on Monday and Friday and Boyle Totalhealth Pharmacy on Tuesdays.

l HSE Trained and Approved

l Home visits available

PLASTERER

Plasterer available in Roscommon town and surrounding areas.

PODIATRIST

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

All aspects of plastering carried out including cosy board work. Recently relocated to the area. Call or text Shane for quotes on 085 1477 335

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 –

Tel: 087 2982214

Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

PODIATRIST

For all foot ailments

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

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

Department of Health Approved Kearney’s Chemist Main Street, Castlerea

For appointment: Phone: (089) 4142233

• Home visits

SIOBHAN ALSO RUNS A CLINIC FROM KNOCK • 20 years experience

Locally owned ... in the heart of the community

USEFUL SERVICES

USEFUL SERVICES

Corlack Mechanical Maintenance Services Ltd

Ballintober, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon F45Y320 Phone: 086 - 8944363 or 086 - 0872166

l Hydraulic Cylinder Repair and Testing

l Hydraulic Hose Repair

l Oil/Grease Lubricants

l OEM Hydraulic Components and Spares

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 9373445

l Tyres - Car, Van and 4x4

l Wheel Balancing

l 4-Wheel Alignment

l Batteries

l Adblue

l Accessories

TARMACADAM

REPAIRS, DISHWASHER REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on 086 0538977 087 4046478 071 9664207

www.appliance-repairs.ie

Tar & Chip Driveways

Harpur Bros, Castlecole, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

MONTH’S MIND MASS CONROY (née Ames)

Bridget

Clooncullane, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Bridget, who passed away on 29th January, 2023.

We the family of the late Bridget Conroy wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following the recent sudden sad loss of our beloved Bridget, a devoted wife, treasured mother, adored granny and sister. We wish to offer our heartfelt thanks to our many neighbours, relatives and friends who visited our home during her repose, the kindness and support we received will never be forgotten. We would like to thank the huge number of people who attended the Funeral Home to pay their respects and to all who attended Bridget’s Funeral Mass and Burial. Thank you to all our neighbours, the Roadstone staff and people who formed Guards of Honour to say goodbye to our dear Bridget on her final journey home, a lovely gesture and so much appreciated by our family. A special word of thanks to An Garda Siochana for the escort home from Galway.

Thank you to everyone who brought food to our home, to our relatives and friends and work colleagues who travelled from near and far and who travelled from abroad to attend Bridget’s Funeral.

To all those who sent mass cards, sympathy cards, mass enrolments, text messages and floral tributes, to those who telephoned and who left messages of condolence on social media and RIP.ie, we are truly grateful.

Thank you to Fr. Gannon, Fr. Breslin, Fr. Stephen, Bernie Higgins, Eucharist minister and singer Carmel McLoughlin for contributing to the celebration of Bridget’s life in the beautiful Mass.

A special word of thanks to Cathal and Mary Brady for their professionalism and sensitivity in the handling of Bridget’s funeral arrangements and to the grave diggers who prepared Bridget’s final resting place.

Thank you to Dr. Colleran and the medical staff from Elphin Medical Centre and to the wonderful medical staff of the ICU Department in Galway University Hospital who cared for Bridget during her final days and who showed us such compassion and love we are truly grateful and we will be forever be indebted to you.

Thank you to the management and staff of The Percy French Hotel who provided the meal and refreshments.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere deep appreciation and gratitude and that you remember Bridget in your prayers. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your kind intentions.

Bridget’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday the 26th of February at 11.30am in St. Patrick’s Church Elphin.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

MANNION

Jack Cartron, Kilteevan, Roscommon (17th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 24th February 2006

LAWE William (Bill)

Strokestown, Roscommon

(First Anniversary)

In loving memory of Bill, who passed away on 24th February 2022

I lost a father with a heart of gold, how much I miss him can never be told. He shared my troubles and helped me along, if I follow his footsteps I will never go wrong. I miss you from your fireside chair, your loving smile and gentle air. Your vacant place no one can fill, I miss you father and always will.

Loved and missed so much by daughter Sharon and granddaughter Shauna.

BRENNAN

John

R.I.P. Fairfield, Creggs, Co. Galway (9th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 23rd February 2014

On the First Anniversary of Dad’s passing, we would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our great loss.

We offer heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbours and well wishers who visited our home, attended the Funeral Home, came to the Funeral Mass and those who travelled long distances to be with us to provide support for us at a very difficult time. To those who gave floral tributes, cards, phone calls and messages, we are grateful. Special thanks to the staff at Costelloe’s Nursing Home, the staff at Portiuncula Hospital and the Palliative Care Team in Roscommon who were all so good to Dad.

To Aidan Tully, Funeral Director for his support and professionalism in handling the arrangements. To the gravediggers who prepared Dad’s final resting place so beautifully.

To Fr. Eamonn O’Connor and Fr. Ciaran O’Flynn for the lovely Mass and Amanda, Sophie and Ellen for the beautiful music and singing. Special thanks to Dad’s life-long friend Kevin for his support to Dad through his illness and for his continued support to us since.

To those who helped in any way, your contribution made our loss more bearable.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgmet as a expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

In Our Hearts

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new, we thought about you yesterday and days before that too.

MONTH’S MIND MASS

In loving memory of my dear husband, John Your life touched so many others, and will be remembered forever more.

To leave the world a better place than it had been before. Sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Mae, family and friends.

DOWDALL

Mrs. Agnes M

M.I.A.V.I.

23rd February 1989

In loving memory of a great mother and grandmother

Never to be forgotten Always remembered with love and affection by her family.

Anniversary Mass for Agnes and John in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday, 23rd February at 11am.

We think of you in silence, we often speak your name, now all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake, with which we’ll never part, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our heart.

Love and remembered by Caroline, Ryan and Kirsty.

Dad’s First Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday the 26th of February at 11.30am in Strokestown Parish Church.

OATES

P.J. and Anne Creevy, Roscommon (15th and 17th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of P.J. who passed away on 24th February, 2008 and Anne who passed away on 20th February, 2006.

We the family of the late Martin Ward wish to acknowledge and thank all who in any way tendered sympathy or support on Martin’s recent passing. Sincere thanks to our family, friends and neighbours who called to the house, brought food and helped us through this difficult time.

We are thankful to all who attended Martin’s Funeral Mass, Burial, sent mass cards, messages of condolence, floral tributes and travelled long distances.

We were overwhelmed with the candlelight reception for Martin at our home on the night of his wake and wish to thank the organisers and all who took part, it was so comforting.

We offer heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of Castlebar, Galway and Roscommon University Hospitals for their kindness and the excellent care shown to Martin during his months of illness.

Sincere thanks also to the doctors, nurses and reception staff of the Kelly Henry Medical Centre for their excellent care and kindness and to Nial Tully and the staff of Tully’s Pharmacy for their care.

We wish to thank most sincerely the nurses at Glenamaddy Health Centre, HSE Tuam and the wonderful carers Martin had during his final months.

Thank you most sincerely Fr. Julian Lupot, Fr. Joe Poole and Fr. Benny Flanagan for concelebrating Martin’s Funeral Mass and to Kathleen the Sacristan and altar servers Ella, Aisling, Adam and Oisin. Thanks to Fr. Pat O’Toole and Fr. Julian for their Pastoral visits to our home during Martin’s illness.

Thanks to Julie Heaney and Olivia Walsh for the beautiful church music and singing.

Sincere thanks to Niall Flanagan Undertakers for the professional care and kindness shown to us and to the grave diggers for preparing Martin’s final resting place. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our thanks and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Martin’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe on Friday the 3rd of March 2023 at 8pm.

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

Will those who think of P.J. and Anne today a little prayer to Jesus say.

Lovingly remembered always by all the family. Masses offered.

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

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

FAMILYNOTICES ....ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

KENNY Máire

Culleen, Knockcroghery (5th Anniversary)

Whose anniversary occurs on the 26th February.

MONAGHAN Mary

Edmonton, London and formerly Gallowstown, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

Who passed away on the 16th February 2014

O’ROURKE Jim

In loving memory of Jim O’Rourke whose second anniversary occurs on 3rd March 2023.

GIBBONS Tony

Caggle, Strokestown

Who passed away on 28th February (17th Anniversary)

I ndíl chuimhne

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving family Regina, Allan, Éanna and Lucia.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h anam dilís.

MONTH’S MIND MASS MORRIS

Daniel (Danny) Manchester, England and formerly of Gailey, Knockcroghery, Co Roscommon. Who passed away on 8th January, 2023. R.I.P.

Danny’s wife, Eileen and daughters Karen and Samantha, sons-in-law Marty and Derek along with his brother, sisters and extended family would like to thank most sincerly all those who offered sympathy with them in their recent loss of Danny.

To all who called to Smyth’s Funeral Home and attended the Funeral Mass and to those who travelled long distances and left condolences and floral wreaths, thank you.

A special thank you to Fr. Ali Joe for his help and support and service.

To Aileen, the choir and the grave diggers we are most thankful.

To Michael Tyrell for his catering at such short notice, a special word of thanks.

We will forever be grateful to Pat Smyth Funeral Undertakers and his team who made the arrangements here and in conjunction with England, we could not have asked for more help and support, thank you.

To Gleeson’s Restaurant for refreshments and delivery a word of thanks and appreciation.

To the Abbey Hotel for services, a word of thanks.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere deep appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your kind Intentions.

Daniel’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 25th of February at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

Mary, quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget. No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Sadly missed by your brother Simon, Ann, Simon Jnr and Shane Doyle.

GERAGHTY Kathleen

Tobervaddy, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Who passed away on 5th March 2022

A quiet thought, a silent prayer, for someone special in God’s care. Very sadly missed and always remembered by her sister Veronica, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Kathleen’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Friday evening, 3rd March at 7pm in the Church of the Assumption, Castlecoote.

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

Deeply loved, sadly missed and always remembered by his loving children Marina, Bobby and James, son-inlaw Noel, James’s partner Katie and his grandchildren Arwen, Senan and Rían.

KENNY

Eamon

Cloverhill, Roscommon (18th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Eamon Kenny, who passed away on February 13th 2005

Every day we miss your smile that no one can replace. But still it brings us comfort in the sadness that we face. Life is full of mysteries that no one can explain, but we know some day, somewhere we will meet again.

Forever loved and sadly missed Mom, Dad, David, Alan and their families.

BEIRNE

Kathleen (15th Anniversary)

THANKSGIVINGS

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER

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

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE

For urgent need...

Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favours. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh flowers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also place an ad in the newspaper thanking Saint Expedite, so that his name and fame will grow. M.C.

Rogers Funeral Directors Rooskey

(Covering Rooskey and surrounding areas)

Mobile: 087 2365453

Landline: 071 9638739

email: jrrogers40@hotmail.com

Quietly today your memory is kept, no need for words, we will never forget. No longer in our lives to share, but in our hearts you are always there. Always remembered by your loving wife Pauline and family and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church on Saturday night, 25th February at 7pm.

for all of us, when we must say goodbye, but memories of those we love, live on and never die.

Always remembered by Patsy and Maureen. Masses offered.

Classifieds To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633

Appointments

WE ARE RECRUITING

Due to expansion we are recruiting multiple roles for our brand new wing at Sonas Nursing Home Cloverhill.

Sonas Nursing Home Cloverhill, Lisagallen, Roscommon

Healthcare Assistants

Staff Nurse

Multi-Task Attendants

Housekeeping Assistants

full & part time positions available training provided

recruitment@sonas.ie

Browse all vacancies on our website www.sonas.ie/careers or email your cv.

Full and Part Time Flexi DELI ASSISTANT to join their team.

Corrib Oil Roscommon are now recruiting for Full and Part Time Flexi Deli Assistants to join their team.

are an energetic, motivated individual with a passion for providing first class customer service we want to hear from you!

Previous experience is desirable but training will be provided

If you are an energetic, motivated individual with a passion for providing first class customer service we want to hear from you!

Must be available to work flexible hours Monday to Sunday incl. evenings & weekends

Previous experience is desirable but training will be provided

To apply, please forward your CV to: recruitment@corriboil.com or drop your CV in store to the Deli or Store Manager

Must be available to work flexible hours

Monday to Sunday incl. evenings and weekends

To apply, please forward your CV to: recruitment@corriboil.com or drop your CV in store to the Deli or Store Manager.

Sports PEOPLE

Rossie cyclone headed for Clones! Burke’s men hoping to continue perfect start

Smith: ‘We want to stay here for a while’

< SEAMUS DUKE

Arguably Roscommon’s most influential player over the last num- ber of years, Enda Smith was in buoyant form following last Sun- day’s crucial home win over Armagh.

Speaking to People Sport at the full-time whistle, the affable Boyle man said it was vital Roscommon ended the recent trend of yo-yoing between Divisions One and Two.

“We’ve been conscious of going up and down out of this division for the last few years. It was really one of our big aims this year, to consolidate our position in the division,” he said.

“There’s a lot of experience in the dressing room, and a lot of us have been involved in five or six Division Two campaigns. We want to stay here for a while.

“We haven’t done it yet, of course, but we’re well on our way. We’re looking forward to the next four games, and hopefully we’ll keep that momentum going into the championship,” he concluded.

Allianz NFL Division One (Round 4): Monaghan v Roscommon on Sunday in Clones at 2.30 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

These are certainly heady times for Roscommon football…three games, three wins and all alone at the very top of Division One. Who could have foreseen this at the start of the year?

The praise from all sides has been generous - and well deserved too.

Davy Burke has been a revelation as manager. He has trusted in youth and the fans have lapped up every minute of this league campaign so far. It’s been a start to the season well beyond the dreams of even the most loyal Primrose and Blue fanatic.

The first priority when Burke took the reins last October was survival in the top division of Gaelic football. The scenes last Sunday, where Burke was warmly congratulated on the Hyde pitch following victory over Armagh, would suggest that six points is the magic number.

But…what’s the aim for Roscommon now?

Two more wins from their remaining fixtures (and there are some tough ones to come!) would probably be good enough to seal a place in this year’s final. The question is whether Burke would welcome such a fixture just one week before a massive Connacht showdown with Mayo?

Perhaps the dream start has us all in dreamland and we’re getting slightly ahead of ourselves because this Sunday the Rossies meet a Monaghan side back

Qualter appointed new hurling manager

< SEAMUS DUKE

Galway native, Seamus Qualter, who previously managed Roscommon between 2009 and 2013, has been ratified as the new county senior hurling manager. Qualter will take over the reins from Francis O’Halloran, who stepped down following Roscommon’s disastrous National

Hurling League home defeat to Louth.

Former Sligo manager Daithí Hand, who managed Athleague last year, will be a coach, and Peter Galvin, who was part of Hand’s backroom team in Sligo, will be a selector.

Seamus Qualter knows Roscommon hurling very well and in addition to managing Roscom-

mon four years he has also managed Athleague and Tremane in recent years, winning senior titles with both clubs in 2018 and 2021 respectively.

Roscommon Hurling Chairperson, Christy McDermott, confirmed the appointment earlier this week.

“I would like to welcome Seamus and his management team

on board and I hope they will have great success and get the support of the players and Roscommon clubs,” he said.

The new management team won’t have too long to prepare for their first game, which is a trip to face Fermanagh on Sunday at 2 pm in the Allianz National Hurling League Division 3A.

in form. Last weekend’s Farney victory over Donegal has perked them up following a poor start to the league campaign, and they will be targeting this fixture to maintain momentum for a survival push.

Davy Burke will most likely look at more options on Sunday as he builds for later in the year. Players like Colin Walsh, Richard Hughes, Daire Cregg, Ciaráin Murtagh and Donie Smith could all feature from the start for this one.

A lot of the Monaghan stars who were absent for their first two games returned to the fold last Sunday. Jack McCarron, Darren Hughes and Conor McManus are back and they are now close to full strength. The Farney know that a win on Sunday will completely change the narrative and in Clones they will be hard to beat.

Psychologically it will be very interesting to see how Roscommon approach this match. Momentum is such a major factor in any sport and after three wins, the team will not want to taste defeat, but every match in this division is a major test.

The fans will travel in force on the crest of this early season wave, and it will be interesting to see what starting fifteen Davy Burke decides to go with.

Make no mistake, this will be a tough match for Roscommon but they are on such a roll that they can make it four wins out of four and get ready for a massive occasion on Sunday week (at home to Mayo). They have come good in the second half of all three games so far and they can do it again on Sunday.

Prediction: Roscommon.

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs set for showdown with Connemara

Creggs will take on arch-rivals Connemara in what promises to be a cracking Connacht Junior 1A League final at the Sportsground, Galway on Sunday at 2 pm.

These sides have been involved in a number of entertaining encounters in recent years and this Sunday’s showdown promises to be no different.

All support would be very much appreciated as the Creggs lads aim to bring the league title back to the village.

For those who cannot make it to Galway on Sunday, Creggs will host the Connacht J1C final between Carrick-on-Shannon and Ballinasloe RFC at 2.30 pm.

Meanwhile, Creggs Seconds travel to Tuam on Saturday evening for a league match at 7.30 pm.

Youth Rugby

Creggs U-14 girls played host to Galwegians last Saturday

morning on the 4G pitch in Creggs. The game started well for the home side and they went in 22-0 up at the half-time break. While Galwegians undoubtedly improved in the second half, Creggs were just too strong and ran out comfortable winners on a scoreline of 37-7. Scorers on the day were Abigail Quinn, Ruth King (3), Emily Kelly (2), with conversions from Sarah Larkin and Ruth King. U-13 Boys: Creggs U-13s secured a hard-fought home win

over Sligo RFC in the league last Saturday. It was all square at the break following a well contested first half.

Creggs came out fighting after the interval and took a sevenpoint lead thanks to a converted try. The visitors never gave up, however, and Creggs had a lot of defending to do in the final stages to keep a battling Sligo side at bay. This game was a credit to both sides who gave their all on the day.

Roscommon Town registration nights

Roscommon Town Youth Soccer will host player registration nights at Roscommon Community Sports Park in Lisnamult on the following dates ahead of the 2023 season: Friday, February 24th and Thursday, March 2nd.

Registration for boys and girls U-7s, U-9s and U-11s will take place from 7 to 8 pm while registration for U-12s, U-14s, and U-16s will take place from 8 to 9 pm on both nights.

Fees for the coming season are €95 for one player, €170 for two players and €240 for 3+ players.

Mini

Rugby

Creggs Minis went on tour to Ballinrobe RFC on Saturday last with big numbers in attendance. There were plenty of skills on show and lots of fun to be had as teams from ages U-6 to U-12 put on a great show for spectators. The support shown by teammates is a joy to behold and mentors and supporters must be happy in the knowledge that the efforts being made in training are coming to fruition on the pitch.

Luckless Ladies set for Cavan trip

Lidl Ladies National Football League

Division Two: Cavan v Roscommon at Kingspan Breffni Park

at 2 pm on Sunday

Roscommon Ladies footballers will be hoping their luck finally changes when they take to the field against Cavan in this Sunday’s make or break Division Two tie in Kingspan Breffni Park.

Ollie Lennon’s team have lost all four of their league matches to date and last weekend even man-

BUCCANEERS RFC

aged to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory against local rivals Westmeath in Kiltoom, eventually going down 3-7 to 1-11. Roscommon looked to be in full control of last Sunday’s fixture, having recovered from a dreadful start, but late Lake County goals turned the match on its head and

plunged Lennon’s team further towards relegation. With games running out to save themselves from the drop, Roscommon will be hoping to finally get off the mark this Sunday against a Cavan side who have won two and lost two so far this campaign.

Buccs face Malone under the lights

Buccaneers entertain Malone in the Energia All-Ireland League at Dubarry Park on Saturday in a Division 1B fixture that has a later than usual kick-off time of 5.30 pm. This will facilitate supporters to watch Ireland square up to Italy in the Six Nations Championship earlier in the day.

Malone are bottom of 1B but will be battling for survival so Buccs can expect a searching test from the Belfast club. The

Pirates recorded a 35-18 bonus point victory at Gibson Park but the Athlone side’s resources will be stretched for this game as injuries to Shane Layden (wrist), Oisin McCormack (hamstring) and Cian McCann (ankle) incurred in the win over UCC rule this trio out.

Indeed, their injuries could see them miss the remaining vital fixtures in the AIL and of course the Bateman and Connacht Cup

finals. The club had been fortunate with relatively few injuries throughout the season so sustaining three in the same match is a heavy setback.

U-20s captain Tom Shine is the probable replacement for Layden in what is likely to be an otherwise unchanged backline although Frank Hopkins may be getting back to full fitness. Another U-20, Fionn McDonnell could well replace fellow U-20 McCann in the back row where Ryan O’Meara and Sean O’Connell will be vying for starting berths.

Malone halted a run of defeats with a gritty 17-17 draw at home to Old Wesley last Saturday. They will be desperate for a badly needed win so Buccaneers must grant them appropriate respect.

But, if the Pirates re focussed and disciplined, they should have the wherewithal to come out on top. With a tough run in which they play the other three teams in the top four, Buccs must make home advantage pay against the Ulster side.

So, head along early to The Bounty to watch the Italy v Ireland Six Nations game and then pop outside to support Buccs as they bid to keep their momentum going against Malone, kick-off 5.30 pm.

UCC put to the sword

Energia All-Ireland League

Division 1B: University College Cork 10 Buccaneers 19. Buccaneers maintained their winning ways with a 19-10 Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B victory over University College Cork at a sunny Mardyke Arena on Saturday. But it came at a steep cost with injuries to a trio of key players whilst the failure to add a bonus point that looked there for the taking early in the second half means that the Midlanders slip a point behind new league leaders City of Armagh.

Castlerea Celtic Women’s captain Sarah Diggins receives the Women’s Trophy from Roscommon & District Football League PRO following Castlerea’s penalty shootout win over Colemanstown United at Lecarrow last weekend. Pic: Austin Waldron

Soccer results

Norio’s Premier Division Boyle Celtic 4 CP Ajax 0

Kilkerrin United 3 Ballaghaderreen FC 2

Moylough ’79 0 Ballinasloe Town 3

RDFL First Division

Ballinagare Manor United 0 Cloonfad United 5 Roscommon United 0 Ballymoe FC 3

Dysart FC 2 Ballinasloe Town B 3

RDFL Second Division

Glen Celtic 1 St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United 1

RDFL Women’s Trophy Final

Castlerea Celtic 1 Colemanstown United 1 AET (Castlerea Celtic won 4-3 on penalties)

RDFL Women’s Premier Division

Ballaghaderreen WFC 0 Kilkerrin United 4

Cam Celtic 2 Boyle Celtic 3

RDFL Reserve League

Moore United 3 Shiven Rovers 0

Fixtures

Saturday, February 25th

RDFL Reserve League (12 pm)

Cloonfad United v Moore United

Shiven Rovers v Ballinagare Manor United

Norio’s Premier Division (8 pm)

Skyvalley Rovers v Moylough ‘79

U-20s

fall to defeat in Dublin

JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 Premier League 2: Dublin University 38 Buccaneers 26. Dublin University and Buccaneers traded places in the JP Fanagan Leinster U-20 Premier League 2 when the students came out on top of a highscoring 38-26 encounter played at Santry on Sunday. Trinity outscored the visitors by six tries to four and now sit one point above the Midlanders who travelled with four players who had taken part the previous day in Cork in the AIL victory against UCC.

Castlerea Celtic v Boyle Celtic

Sunday, February 26th

Joe’s Bar Challenge Cup Second Round (11 am)

Cloonfad United v St. Cuan’s Ahascragh United

Ballinagare Manor United v Ballymoe FC

Ballinasloe Town B v Shiven Rovers

Norio’s Premier Division (2 pm)

Ballinasloe Town v Kilkerrin United St. John’s Athletic v Moore United

Women’s Challenge Cup Second Round (2 pm)

Boyle Celtic v Cam Celtic

Ballaghaderreen WFC v Shiven Rovers

Women’s Challenge Shield First Round (2 pm)

Castlerea Celtic v Colemanstown United

2021 National winner Minella Times retires

Horses for Courses

Winner of the 2021 Grand National, Minella Times, has been retired due to injury. The 10-year-old was being prepared for the Cheltenham Cross Country as preparation for this year’s race, but Henry de Bromhead has reported that JP McManus’s horse has suffered a shoulder injury.

The horse made history when carrying Rachael Blackmore to victory in the Grand National making her the first female jockey to win the great race. The pair parted company at the 11th fence last year.

The injury is career ending and the horse will be retired to Martinstown, JP McManus’s stud in Co. Limerick.

This weekend

Horseracing this weekend starts today (Thursday) at Thurles, first race at 1.55 pm and features the Grade 3 Michael Purcell Novice Hurdle.

Tomorrow evening, under lights on the all-weather at Dundalk, first race at 4 pm. On Saturday the action is at Fairyhouse with two Grade 3 races, the Norman Colfer Winning Fair Juvenile Hurdle and the Tote Fantasy Bobbyjo Chase, away at 1.35 pm and on Sunday Naas opens with the Grade 3 New-

Short putts

Athlone

Karen Shine won the Women’s 12-hole Stableford last week with a score of 26 points.

Catherine Fitzgerald (24) and Anne Evans (24) were third and fourth respectively.

The 97 Club competition on February 16th was won by Nora St. John with 25 points. Deirdre Connolly was runner-up with 24 points while Bríd Kenny (24) and Marion Hendrick (23) were third and fourth respectively.

Carrick

The third round of the Flynn’s Bar Spring League saw Anne McGourty finish with 20 points in the Ladies’ section while Sean Duignan was best of the Gents’ with 22. Leading the way in the team results was Team 13, led by Patricia O’Hara, on 279 points. Team 3 (Deirdre McGettrick) weren’t too far behind on 270.

The Seniors’ competition on Thursday last was won by John O’Mahoney with 42 points. Michael Keville was runner-up with 41, and Tommie Kenoy third with 38. The front nine was won by Kevin O’Rourke with 21 points while the back nine went to PJ Sharkey, also with 21 points.

A reminder that the Senior’s AGM takes place next Thursday (March 2nd) at 1 pm in the clubhouse.

Roscommon

Robert Hill was the winner of last weekend’s 15-hole competition with 35 points. John Delaney (34) was second, Roger Hynes (33) third and Brian Feeley took the gross prize with 27 points. Andrew Lawlor was the overall winner the week before with 37 points.

The Ladies’ 9-hole competition was won by Nuala Costello with 19 points.

Senior Men’s results: Winner E Smith 34 points; Cat 1 P Dervin (34); Cat 2 F Grehan (30); Cat 3 B McCormack (31); Cat 4 J Earley (33).

Senior Ladies’ results: 1st Noreen O’Grady; 2nd Joan Moran; 3rd Phil Murray-O’Brien; 4th Jackie Maxwell.

The 2023 Drive-In will take place this Sunday (26th) at 2 pm. Best wishes to President Mary, Captain PJ, and Lady Captain Paul.

Team 4 (Jackie Maxwell, June Halliday and Marina Cribbon) will take on Team 7 (Mary Lalor, Noreen O’Grady and Helen Earley) in the Ladies’ Winter League Final next month.

lands Chase followed by the featured Grade B Barberstown Castle Novice Handicap Chase and the Grade 2 Johnstown Novice Hurdle off at 2.10 pm.

On Saturday, ITV racing is covering seven races with five over jumps, four of them from Kempton, including three Grade 2 races, the Adonis Juvenile Hurdle, the Pendil Novice Chase and the Dovecote Novice Hurdle, Scot Chase and Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novice Chase, with one race from Newcastle, the Eider Chase. There are two races on the all-weather from Lingfield including the Group 3.

Red Mills Day in Gowran

On Saturday at Gowran Park the six-runner Red Mills Hurdle was won by Gordon Elliott’s Fil Dor who beat Willie Mullins’ odds-on favourite Sharjah by ½l. In the four-runner Red Mills Chase, again the Mullins odds-on favourite Haut En Couleurs was beaten but this time it was by a stablemate Janidil at 7/2 who won by 1¼l, ridden by Rachael Blackmore.

Cheltenham Corner

Welsh jockey Lorcan Williams, who rides for Paul Nichols, received an 18-day ban under the new whip

rules in Britain and will miss Cheltenham. Williams rode Makin’yourmindup to victory in Saturday’s Grade 2 Prestige Novices’ Hurdle at Haydock. He got up by a short head from Collectors Item five days after the new whip rules came into force over the jumps, despite calls from jockeys and trainers to delay their implementation until after Cheltenham and Aintree. He used his whip twice over the new permitted limit of seven and Kevin Brogan also got eight days for his ride on the runner-up.

It goes back to the saying “damned if you do and damned if you don’t”, as he most likely would not have won the race.

On Tuesday, 19 jockeys were suspended by the Whip Review Committee at their first meeting. This is a timely warning for Irish jockeys who will not have the benefit of the bedding in period of their British counterparts have had before riding at Cheltenham and Aintree.

Yesterday’s Punchestown Grade 3 Racing TV Quevega Hurdle was won by Elliott’s Queen’s Brook, 11/8 favourite, from John McConnell’s Anna Bunina, 11/1, by 4¼l with Mullins’ Brandy Love, 6/4, a neck away in third. Both Elliot and Mullins were pleased with the run and both go to Cheltenham for the Mares Hurdle in which Queen’s Brook was second last year. Brandy Love, giving the winner 9lbs, was returning after nearly a year off the track. They will probably meet de Bromhead’s Honeysuckle and Paul Nichol’s Epatante in Cheltenham.

SPORTS DESK With Dan Dooner

Wilkins appointed Connacht head coach

Pete Wilkins has been announced as the new head coach of Connacht Rugby and will assume overall responsibility for the professional team from next season.

The Londoner, who signed a threeyear deal with the province, has experience in both Northern and Southern Hemisphere rugby. He had previously worked with clubs such as Edinburgh and Queensland Reds prior to joining Connacht in 2017. Following Andy Friend’s move upstairs as Director of Rugby last year, Wilkins became head coach, assuming greater responsibility for more of the on-pitch elements of the club.

Olivia represents Ireland in Spain

Roscommon golfer Olivia Costello was part of the Irish team which took part in the International Hexagonal competition in Spain recently.

The tournament, played at the Costa Bellena Golf Club, was made up of golfers from Spain, France, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, and Ireland.

All countries played each other over the four-day event with Ireland eventually reaching the championship decider. Unfortunately, the Irish team lost out to hosts Spain on the final day despite a number of impressive performances.

It’s fantastic to see Olivia involved in these international events and she looks set for another successful golfing year in 2023.

U-20s remain unbeaten

Roscommon’s U-20 footballers remain unbeaten in the development league after they drew 0-8 each with Laois in their second match last weekend in Portlaoise.

The Rossies are still in with a chance of qualifying for the final if they manage to beat Cork in their final group game this coming weekend. The other two teams in the group, Laois and Galway, are set to meet in Tuam.

Buckley signs new Connacht contract

Roscommon native, Denis Buckley, has signed a new three-year contract with Connacht. The loosehead prop has made 223 appearances for the province since his debut in September 2011 and was part of the wider squad which won the 2016 Guinness Pro12.

Commenting this week, Buckley said: “Connacht is a special place to me so I’m delighted to be staying for another few years. The Sportsground will change a lot over that time so I’m excited to see the development take place and play my part on the field”.

Tully on tour in Texas

Roscommon handballer Fiona Tully

Grand National weights

The weights for the Grand National were released on Tuesday and top weight of 11st 12lbs will be carried jointly by three Irish-trained horses, Willie Mullins’ Conflated, Shark Hanlon’s Henwick and Ted Walsh’s Any Second Now, second to Noble Yeats last year, who is on 11st 11lbs. The majority of Irish trainers are happy with the weights, but Walsh expressed shock even though his horse was third and second respectively in the last two renewals of the race. We will take a more detailed look at the race next week.

Ryan

stages. reached the final of the second Pro Stop event of the year in Houston, Texas last weekend but was defeated by number one seed Caitriona Casey of Cork on a scoreline of 152, 15-2.

Tully, who reached the final following a convincing wins over Texan Avery Shepard and Milwaukee’s Aimee Touhey.

The St. Coman’s girl is back in action in the All-Ireland quarter-final

against Cork’s Aisling O’Keeffe this Saturday.

Best of luck to Carragh Kennedy and Siobhan Treacy as they travel to Tucson, Arizona for the USHA Collegiates Nationals this week. Finally, there were wins for Denis Creaton, Damien McDermott, Steven Madden (Walkover), Brian Mannion, and Darren Beatty (Walkover) in the Connacht Adult Championships last weekend.

GAME ON…

The numbers game…

Roscommon’s defensive record thus far this season has been very impressive. To date, the team has conceded just one goal in three Allianz Football League games (against Tyrone in round one).

Roscommon have conceded just 1-32 in total in those three games (v Tyrone, Galway and Armagh)…an average of less than 0-12 per game.

At the other end of the pitch, Roscommon have scored 4-32, which is an average of almost fifteen points per game.

100% record…

‘Backed by another strong second half, Roscommon maintained their 100% Division 1 record this term with a win that brings them closer to top-flight survival and a Sam Maguire Cup spot’.

-From The Irish Examiner

A Belfast view

‘The West is most certainly awake as Roscommon and Galway recorded wins over Armagh and Tyrone respectively on Sunday to complete a fine weekend for Connacht sides in Division One.

‘On Saturday night, Mayo defeated All-Ireland champions Kerry by seven points in Castlebar as Kevin McStay’s men earned their first victory after back-to-back draws against Galway and Armagh.

‘On Sunday, Enda Smith plundered a vital second half penalty as Roscommon fought back to inflict a first defeat of the League campaign on Kieran McGeeney’s Orchardmen’.

-From BelfastLive.co.uk

Daly Star…

Congratulations to Conor Daly, named at full-back on the GAA.ie Football Team of the Week. Another well deserved inclusion of a Roscommon player this season. Keep them coming!

Dry one, Peter!

So, the ‘Dry joke of the Week’ award goes to Tyrone legend Peter Canavan (speaking on RTE’s highlights programme ‘Allianz League Sunday’) – “It’s time to split Roscommon in two”. In fairness, he said it with a grin, not in sarcasm (anyways, we’d forgive Peter anything).

Stat Attack

Wides: Roscommon 7 (5, first half); Armagh 6 (0, first half)

Red cards: 0

Black cards: Roscommon 1 (Keith Doyle, 73); Armagh 0

Yellow cards: Roscommon 1 (Ciarán Lennon); Armagh 2 (Rian O’Neill, Ciaran Mackin)

Attendance: Approx. 8,500

Man of the Match: Brian Stack (Roscommon)

Burke building towards Mayo date Win over Armagh maintains league momentum

Allianz National Football League Division One

Roscommon 1-12 Armagh 0-12

< SEAMUS DUKE

Davy Burke and his players have more work to do in the Allianz National Football League, but the ebullient Roscommon manager admits that much of his focus is now moving towards the big championship date with Mayo on Easter Sunday.

Roscommon’s phenomenal start to the league campaign continued apace at Dr Hyde Park last Sunday when another rousing second-half per-

Teams & Scorers

formance saw Burke’s men sweep past Armagh for their third win in a row. This latest victory not only sees Roscommon sit proudly on the top of the table, more importantly it means Division One football is almost a certainty for next season as well.

Little wonder that Burke is now adopting a dual approach – maintaining league momentum, while also focussing more than ever on that Mayo fixture.

“It’s brilliant, a top class position to be in” the manager told the Roscommon People moments after Sunday’s final whistle.

“They’re a brilliant bunch of lads, so now we can maybe look forward to Connacht. I’m try-

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; Conor Hussey, Conor Daly (0-2), David Murray; Robbie Dolan (0-1), Brian Stack, Niall Daly; Tadhg O’Rourke, Keith Doyle; Dylan Ruane, Enda Smith (1-1, 1-0 pen), Ciarán Lennon (0-1); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-3, 2 frees), Ben O’Carroll (0-2), Ciaráin Murtagh (0-1, free). Subs: Colin Walsh for Murray (h/t), Richard Hughes for Hussey (46), Daire Cregg (0-1) for D Murtagh (54), Conor Cox for C Murtagh (65), Donie Smith for Lennon (70).

Armagh: Ethan Rafferty; Aaron McKay, Aidan Forker, Paddy Burns; Conor O’Neill, Barry McCambridge (0-1), Jarly Óg Burns; Ciaran Mackin, Stefan Campbell; Jemar Hall, Rory Grugan (0-2, frees), Tiernan Kelly; Rian O’Neill (0-4, 1 ’45, 1 free) Andrew Murnin (0-1), Jason Duffy (0-4).

Subs: Conor Turbutt for Mackin (h/t), Callum Cumiskey for Kelly (55), Ross McQuillan for O’Neill (62), Justin Kieran for Hall (62), Niall Grimley for Duffy (69).

Referee: Conor Lane (Cork).

ing to pick up to 25 players for Mayo on Easter Sunday. The lads know that. Niall Kilroy, Cian McKeon, Cian Connolly and Feargal Lennon are back, so these guys are going to be getting game time”.

As to Sunday’s performance, Burke hailed yet another decisive second-half improvement.

“I wasn’t impressed at half-time. I thought we were extremely poor in the first half. Our shot selection was very poor. We couldn’t break down a blanket defence, which is all we do in training. I was disappointed with that, and I let them know about it at half-time. I think you saw a different team in the second half”.

The Kildare native was full of praise for the way his players responded.

“I thought that Ben O’Carroll really stood up. Diarmuid Murtagh was class for the first 10 or 15 minutes of the second half. People look and wonder why Diarmuid is coming off. The tank is empty, his job is done, move on and get the other man in”.

Murtagh wasn’t the only player with an ‘empty tank’ in a ferociously hard-working Roscommon team. Every player contributed to the win, with Robbie Dolan, Brian Stack, Keith Doyle, Conor Daly, Enda Smith, Ben O’Carroll and sub Richard Hughes all outstanding.

In a cagey first half, Roscommon – with the

strong wind at their backs – struggled to make inroads against a very impressive Armagh defence. The Orchard County led 0-6 to 0-3 after 26 minutes, corner-forward Jason Duffy causing havoc with four super points from play.

Roscommon improved, points from Ciaráin Murtagh, Enda Smith and Ciarán Lennon steadying the ship. Rian O’Neill, who always looked dangerous, fired over two late points and Armagh led 0-8 to 0-7 at half-time.

Roscommon were a different team on the resumption, tackling hard in defence and now

much more direct going forward. Points from Diarmuid Murtagh (2) and Ben O’Carroll saw the home side lead by two.

A goal was always going to be vital in a tight game. So it proved. It arrived in the 51st minute when the excellent Ben O’Carroll was hauled down by Barry McCambridge, Enda Smith scoring from the resultant spot-kick to put Roscommon four points up at that stage, and into the driving seat.

Armagh laid siege on the Roscommon goal late on, but the home defence stood firm. Roscommon could have scored a second goal in injury-

Roscommon’s high-flyers thwart Armagh

PAUL HEALY View from the Stand

As I drove past Dr Hyde Park at 11.45 am on Sunday, there were a couple of hundred Armagh supporters queuing in orange-coloured huddles outside the main entrance, with dozens more weaving their way along the Athlone Road in the direction of the stadium.

As a veteran of the art of Timing Getting To The Game Just Right, I briefly imagined appearing on Mastermind…specialised subject: ‘The psyche of sports followers who go to games very, very early’. I’m incapable of seeing the attraction of being at a GAA ground almost two hours before throw-in. There was no appetiser on Sunday, in the form of a junior fixture. Nor was Rihanna in town. But those Armagh fans were out in force good and early. I guess the logic is…get a good seat, inhale the ambience, open the bag or box of goodies/treats.

Probably the latest I’ve arrived for the start of a major game – as opposed to getting there after throw-in – dates back to 1993. It was the day of the All-Ireland Senior Hurling final in Croke Park; Kilkenny v Galway. I had a press pass, but for some reason was in two minds on that Sunday morning as to whether to go or not. Let’s say the game was at 3 pm. At around 12.50 pm, I finally decided to head off from Roscommon town.

time, but Conor Cox was denied by a brilliant save from Ethan Rafferty. Seconds later Rian O’Neill was through on the Roscommon goal but Keith Doyle dragged him down at the expense of a black card.

When Ben O’Carroll lofted over the final score of the game in the 7th minute of injury-time, the roar from the Roscommon fans was deafening. Another superb win, a terrific atmosphere, and a very memorable day in Dr Hyde Park.

Surrounded by hundreds of fans after the game, a beaming Davy Burke was taking it all in.

“Look at the people

It seemed like madness, but it wasn’t. The roads were extremely quiet (all right-thinking supporters had left hours’ earlier). Getting into Dublin (on the old, pre-motorway roads) was easy. Near Croke Park – the earlier traffic congestion now replaced by tranquillity – I found a parking space. A quick skip along Jones’ Road, a flash of the press card, a jaunty walk into the bowels of the Hogan – with nobody around – brought me to the steps leading to the press area. I took my prime seat as the players completed their pre-match parade.

Last Sunday’s game had a cagey start. In the stand on the Athlone Road side, the Roscommon fans were worried. “Armagh are bigger, stronger…moving the ball quicker” was the consensus. A few hardy Armagh lads engaged in banter with the home supporters over a call by the ref. “Never a free!” said a Rossie, to mock surprise from the Armagh-ites, who begged to differ. “Arra ye’re watching too much soccer” the Rossie added.

Roscommon finished the first half with a welcome flurry, some respite from Jason Duffy’s one-man show. Armagh led 0-8 to 0-7 at the break.

The second half was mighty entertainment, a fiercely committed Roscommon going up several gears. Ciarán Lennon’s first-half block had spectators gasping. In the second half, Keith Doyle had to pull a goalbound opponent down at the expense of a black card. It seemed a very fair exchange. Nobody near me argued with Doyle’s decision.

Conor Cox might have saved us an anxious finale late on, but the Armagh ‘keeper dived to flick the ball off course, adding unnecessary drama (for home supporters). Several times the superb Roscommon defence thwarted dangerous Armagh attacks. Roscommon won by three, this one built on great heart, skill, and composed game management.

The Armagh lads around us – who might have been there from 11.45 am – shook hands with home supporters, giving credit where it was due. On the pitch below, Roscommon’s high-flyers part-disappeared under a sea of young admirers. If they were on Mastermind, specialised subject: ‘Happy days in the Hyde’.

‘Keith Doyle had to pull a goalbound opponent down at the expense of a black card… nobody near me argued with Doyle’s decision’

SportsPeople