Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
When you lose someone that brings a smile to your face every time you meet them it means that you are all the poorer for their loss and such was the case on Sunday last 23rd February when news broke of the sudden death of Michael Casey Mount Dillon, Curraghroe. Mike or as he would say himself Mikeen was one of the most likeable person you could meet and a real peoples person. Stranger and local alike were always enthralled and regaled by the many stories in Mike’s repertoire. He lived in the small and tight townsland of Mount Dillon where he farmed the family farm; a man who had a great faith; he was a wonderful kindly neighbour and friend who was always ready to give generously of his time in lending a hand to his neighbours and anyone in their time of need-there was nothing he would not do for you. Mike took great pride in his tractor and car and anyone that seen him in either would appreciate the care he took on both. For a good number of years he worked on the farmer’s work scheme that allowed him work with the people of Church View estate. He quickly built up a wonderful reputation for himself with young and old in the estate. When his term ended there was a great sadness at the loss of Mike out and about the estate. Mike had a wonderful love of family and in all our conversations there was always a great pride in mentioning his sister Mary and his niece Ciara. He will always be remembered as a great friend and generous to a fault, his heart was one of pure gold, and he had a wonderful love of country music where he never ever missed Michael Commins show on Mid-West radio amongst other shows.
The attendance at the reposing of his remains in McHugh’s Funeral Home Strokestown and his removal to St. Cecilia’s Church on Wednesday and again at his Funeral Mass and burial in Cloontuskert bore ample testimony to the esteem in which Mike was held. Mike was predeceased by his parents John and Annie-May. To his sister Mary, niece Ciara, brother-in-law Frank Reynolds, Ciara’s partner Paul, cousins, neighbours and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Good News
For too long we have not been receiving any good news and the other day I came across Sean Mimnagh at a meeting about organising an upcoming event in May. He was telling me that there were two small pieces of good news for the community. He said following his representations the resurfacing the road leading from the car park to the harbour was about to be carried out and he also told of the 4 new lights installed were about to be turned on completing the path lighting at Barnacor. He said that the fallen trees from the storm that were cut to open the road and left on the side of the road at Barnacor will soon be removed to enhance the area.
Come Follow Me
Parents and grandparents of 7 to 11 year old children are invited to a short presentation in the Parish Hub on Wednesday 19th March. The presentation will last for one hour and it will commence at 7pm. ‘Come Follow Me’ is a new movement taking root in Ireland – it is a parish/home based programme to help children grow in faith.
Phoenix Park History – further local link
Following my article last week recalling Brian Carbury bringing turf to the Phoenix Park it brought back memories of John Donnellan travelling from his native county Clare to be a dragline driver working the McHenry Brothers firm. John stacked the turf into the 30foot high stacks and little did both men know that within a couple of years of that they would be workmates in the Turf Development Board the precursor to Bord na Mona.
In 1946 for the Turf Development Board John and his brother Christy brought a dragline by train to Longford station and drove it inch by inch by road to Lanesboro – that surely was a tortuous journey. The first task they undertook was in Derryshannoge bog and it was from that point they seen the beginning of the new Bord na Mona in 1946 changing its name from the Turf Development Board. It was amazing that John was now working only a stone’s throw from Brian Carbury’s home. I am sure that the two men had a great deal of chat about their time in the Phoenix Park.
As we know John married locally and after a time retired from Bord na Mona to set up his own business Engine Spares Ltd., in Ballyleague and the business is now situated and thriving on the Longford Road under the expert eye of his son P.J. Donnellan. Christy immigrated to New York where he had a very successful 25 years being a New York cop and he passed away just 3 years ago. We have fond memories of all the Donnellan and Brennan families P.J., Mary, (R.I.P.), Jassie, Peter (R.I.P.), Liz and Catherine and the Brennan’s Vincent (R.I.P.), Florrie (R.I.P.) and Frances.
This amazing photograph showing the 30 foot high stacks of turf along the main road through the Phoenix Park, Chesterfield Avenue, shows the enormity of the amount of turf brought to Dublin from the bogs of Ireland was taken from the recently published The Phoenix Park that is an illustrated history of its landscape and management 1880-1980 written by John A. McCullen and the photo was donated by the Chapelizod Heritage Society. When we visualise or drive down the present day main road it is hard to comprehend so much turf stacked as far as the eye can see.
World Day of Prayer
On Friday evening next 7th March at 7.30pm at St. John’s Church, Lanesboro the annual World day of Prayer Service will take place. The theme for this year is “I Made you Wonderful’. Donations on the night will go to Longford Hospice Homecare..
Michael Carroll Memorial Ceili
A Ceilí will be held in St. Marys Hall Lanesboro on Sunday afternoon next 9th March from 3pm to 6pm. Music by the hugely popular ‘Rise the Dust’ Ceilí band.
The Ceilí is to remember Michael who loved his dancing and was an avid Ceili goer, and all the deceased dancers from the Lanesboro group.
The evening is in aid of county Longford Hospice Homecare.
Tea will be served during the Ceili and we invite all dancers and all non-dancers to come along, have a cup of tea, listen or dance to the music and please give a donation to a very worthy cause.
Former resident passes away
For those of us that remember Norah we will always remember her smiling face and warmth of person. Norah McAllen, formerly Masterson, 4 The Green, passed away peacefully in Tralee on Sunday 23rd February. Norah was predeceased by her husband Andy and sons John and Andrew, her parents Ned and Peggy and brother Eamon. In her younger years she immigrated to England and met her late husband in London and they moved back to Ireland and Tralee. Norah will always be remembered for her flowing blonde hair and her warm and welcoming smile. Her dress style was always one of elegance and she loved nothing better than a night of dancing. Lanesboro was always home and she loved to come back on family visits and catching up with locals. She will always be fondly remembered for her time in the Bon Secours Hospital in Tralee.
Her remain were laid to rest in Rath cemetery following her Requiem Mass in St. John’s Church, Tralee. We extend our deepest sympathy to her daughter Teresa, sisters Kitty, Margaret and Teresa and her brothers Sean, Michael, Jimmy, Pat, Henry, Gerry and Joe, family and friends.
The Wizard of Oz
Ballyleague National School presents The Wizard of Oz in Ballyleague Hall on this Saturday evening 8th March at 7pm. It promises to be a wonderful performance and it is a wonderful achievement for the school that deserves massive support from our community. There will also be a very special performance on the evening by the hugely popular Roscommon Men’s Choir. The admission fee is €15 for adults with children under 12 free. You are invited to goo along for what should be a fabulous night of entertainment.
Celebrating International Woman’s Day
There will be a ‘Women’s Day’ celebration on Sunday next 8th March and you are invited to go along. The afternoon/evening will be supporting Kilglass Sick Children Fund and Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. The evening will be full of excellent speakers and the topics covered will be; Skincare routines that work with Rebecca McMahon (RM SKIN), Homeopathy and natural health support with Joanna Klimasz (JKR Homeopathy) and Karen Johnston, Skincare and makeup for all of us by Pamela Hoey (Pamela Hoey Beauty Salon), The nutrition is well-being with Helen McSharry (Magic Spoon), The importance of movement with Michelle Farren (Pilates Instructor). The evening will close with an inspiring story to close the evening with Laura Doorley (Your sacred space with Laura Doorley).
The celebration will take place the Community Centre, Rooskey (N41 F9C2) from 4 to 9pm. Admission is just €15 and they are available from the organisers Joanna 087 054 7323 and Lorna 086 790 9004. There will also be a raffle on the day with great prizes to be won.
Harry’s Comic
Local Cloonadra and Cloontuskert National School student Harry Kenny has just published the latest edition of his comic Pizza Boy. This is a tremendous feat for one so young to be creating his unique and very own comic. Well done again Harry. The comic can be bought in O’Brien’s for just €1.
All-Ireland Final
Sunday next 9th March all roads will lead to Pearse Park, Longford for the All-Ireland B Post Primary Schools final for the Paddy Drummond Cup when Roscommon CBS will play Patrician HS, Carrickmacross. The game will throw in at 2pm.
This game for the CBS will be a repeat of the 1997 final when Patrician HS emerged victors. It is just six years ago since the CBS won the title and let us hope that they can make up for the loss of ’97 and go on and reclaim the title.
St. Faithleach’s have three players involved with the CBS namely David Cox, Jack Casey and Christian Donlon-Goncalves and we wish them as well as their teammates the very best of luck. We look forward to them being All-Ireland champions once again.
Community Games Update
Chess
On Monday 17th February, the Lanesboro CG U13 chess team played Clonguish, there were some very close games, in the end Clonguish won 5-2 and went through to the next round, but watch this space for next year. Well played everyone and thanks to Audrey Sorohan for organising the teams
The U13 Chess team members were Leah Hanley, Zach Mitchell, Finn Fallon, David Kenny, Joe Greally, Ben Cassidy, and Daniel Healy
Table Quiz
On February 18th, three teams from Lanesboro participated in the Community Games Table Quiz at the Longford Arms Hotel. The Lanesboro team put in a fantastic performance, finishing high up the table among the 62 teams that competed. Well done to all involved. Thanks to Patrick Casey for organising teams.
The U14 quiz team members were Cían Shea, Joe Greally, Patrick Casey, Donncha Farrell, Faye Hogan, Saoirse Dillon, Rosie Farrell, Ava Donohue, Saoirse Feeney, Tommy Dennigan and Laoise Farrell.
Swimming
County finals take place on March 1st in Longford swimming pool, Wishing our 8 Lanesboro swimmers the very best of luck.
Art/ Handwriting
St Marys Hall on Saturday March 8th starting at 3pm sharp-6pm in back room of hall-please use the door at the back of the hall.-closest to car park.
Art Age Categories & Topics:
Under 8s & 10s: Choose any Community Games activity
Under 12s, 14s, & 16s: Choose from a list of 4 activities, revealed 15 minutes before the competition. The 4 topics will be drawn from the following list: Solo Dance, Group Singing,
Athletics Relays, Tag Rugby, Volleyball, Pitch and Putt, Long Jump, Cycling on Grass and Soccer.
Children can use paintings, drawings, collages, or cartoons. One art piece per child, Size & Materials: Maximum exhibit size is A3, Paper will be provided. Children must bring their own art materials. All art must be original, and no visual aids (photos, cuttings) are allowed.
Handwriting Age Categories & Topics:
Under 10s, 12s, 14s
The competition lasts a maximum of one hour. Children must copy a piece of text in their own handwriting. The length of the text depends on the age group: U10: 100-150 words U12 & U14: 200-250 words.
Materials: Competitors must use materials provided (HB paper, pencil, etc.), and personal pens, pencils, or erasers are not allowed. Judging will be based on correct letter formation, neatness, legibility, fluency, punctuation, and completion of the text.
Defibrillator Course
Ballagh/Curraghroe defibrillator committee would like to invite anyone in the Kilgefin parish to complete a defibrillator course and if they could contact Danny Cox 086 8142112 or Jean Fallon 086 8320019 to be added for the course. The list, for this vital and potential lifesaving ability, will be compiled with your support over the coming weeks.
Fleadh Cheoil entries
Closing date for entries to Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin competitions are this Wednesday 5th March. Entry forms can be obtained by emailing morrispatricia07@gmail.com or by logging into Comhaltas Ros Comáin Facebook page. The Roscommon Fleadh will be held in Athlone on Easter Monday, 21st April
Updated St. Patrick Day Parade News
Your support for the Lanesboro/Ballyleague St. Patrick’s Day Parade has always been exceptional and it is through your incredible support that once again the committee can feel confident of another great day in Lanesboro and Ballyleague. Once again the committee will welcome thousands to the streets to celebrate the Parade and there is no doubt but many clubs, businesses and organisations will once contribute to making the parade the best in the wider area. The parade will start off from St. Faithleach’s GAA club at 2.30pm and will proceed through Ballyleague and ump Main Street to Lanesboro Community College.
Donations: Without the support of the many donors and businesses the St. Patrick’s Day Parade would not be possible and once again your incredible and loyal generosity and once again it is called upon and it would be very welcome. Donations of €60 is sought to help contribute towards the organising of the Parade. Donations should be made directly to Freda Connaughton, Longford road or left in O’Brien’s in an envelope with your name on it. Thank you in advance for your continued support.
Draw: Your support and generosity is once again being called upon to help defray the cost of staging the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Books of tickets costing €5 for a book of 3 are now on sale locally and in O’Brien’s for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade draw. This draw is vital to the committee in helping to finance the rising costs of providing a spectacular day in Ballyleague and Lanesboro. Your support has always been exceptional and this year there is a greater need for greater success due to the rising costs of proving for the day.
Entry Forms: Entry forms are now available from Teresa Costello, Freda Connaughton or from O’Brien’s Shop. Completed forms can be returned to O’Brien’s for collection. Entry into the best parade in the midlands is just €30
Floats: As I write St. Patrick’s Day is just 21 days away and the countdown is now seriously on. It is now the time to be looking forward and preparing for our local St. Patrick’s Day Parade and help make it bigger and better than ever this year. As 2025 is quarter way through the century we should be making a great effort for this milestone year. Let’s hope that all business, community groups and schools do make a big big effort and make the St. Patrick’s Day parade the biggest and best yet.
Lanesboro Triathlon News
Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon: Entries are now open for the 2025 Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon. The event of the year in Lanesboro and Ballyleague will take place on Saturday 12th July.
Training: The club continues to offer signed up members a weekly training schedule: Monday – coached swimming, Tuesday – Strength & Conditioning, Wednesday – Coached Turbo (indoor bike), Thursday – Coached Running, Friday – rest day, Saturday – Long Run and Sunday – Club Group Cycle.
Tidy Towns Lottery
Every week, on a Tuesday, the draw takes place in O’Brien’s shop at around 10.30am.
The benefit to the committee of your support is shown all year around with the wonderful work of the Community Enterprise team as they continue to enhance our town even during the dreariest of the weather. Your excellent support for the Tidy Town lottery envelopes every week is a great boost to the committee and the workers.
Your continued support is a great encouragement to the committee who can plot and plan greater improvements in and around the town. The next draw takes place for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 4th March.
The brown envelopes cost €2 each or you can buy 3 envelopes for just €5.
We would like to encourage everyone in the community to join in the playing of this very vital weekly draw. Tickets are on sale throughout the town.
Last week’s lottery draw took place in O’Brien’s on Tuesday 25th February for the jackpot of €15,000. The numbers drawn were 3, 6, 10, and 23. There was nobody with the good fortune to have the correct four numbers drawn out and the jackpot of €15,000 remained for the next draw on 4th March. The winner of the €50 prize was Tom Gill, Ballyglass, and the three €20 prize winners were Eileen Plested, Cluain Dara, Michael Kelly, Colehill, c/o O’Brien’s, and Bernie McCormack, Barnacor. The draw, as usual, will take place in O’Brien’s on Tuesday morning next.
Weekly Card Game
The results of Sunday night 2nd March game held in the Parish seen history made last with a record breaking six pairs drawing for 1st place. Winners were Tom Skelly & Jack Bannon, Eugene Kelly & Barney Kenny, Petey Donlon & Brendan Hanley, Liz & Niall Hughes, Pat & Geraldine Greene and Johnno Byrne & Gerry Leavy. Last game winners were P.J. & Bridie Glennon. Raffle winners were Tom Nohilly, Tom Skelly, and Kathleen Maguire & Petey Donlon. New card players will always be welcome. Light refreshments are always served.All card players are reminded that there is a 25 partners game in the Local pub, Newtowncashel every Monday night at 8.30 pm sharp with proceeds after prizes going to Cancer Care. Your support would be appreciated.
Annelisa’s Hair Donation for LauraLynn
‘Locks of Love’ and Little Princess Trust.
On Saturday 22nd February, the day of the Big cut finally arrived! Ten-year-old Annelisa Casey from Lanesborough cut 16 inches of her beautiful hair for a hair donation to LauraLynn Children’s Hospice and Little Princess Trust. The event took place in Granny and Granddad’s house in Galway with a family friend doing the honours!
Annelisa was just three years old when she was first inspired to help children who experience hair loss by her Boston-based relative Emily, who was growing her hair for the third time for a children’s charity there. Annelisa thought this was a really great thing to do and could not wait to participate. It helped that she also always wanted to have long hair like Rapunzel!
With this in mind, she waited until she had over 12 inches. When nearing the target length, she set up an iDonate page. With the help of her family and friends, she raised €850 for LauraLynn, Locks of Love, and €200 for Little Princess Trust.
LauraLynn is Ireland’s first Children’s Hospice, the creation of Jane and Brendan McKenna following their remarkable campaign in memory of their two daughters Laura and Lynn died 20 months apart. Between 2002 and 2007, they raised €5m. Millions more has been raised since then. LauraLynn House was built for children with life-limiting conditions in 2011. LauraLynn helps over 260 children and their families from across 26 counties.
The Little Princess Trust was set up in 2005 in memory of Hannah Tarplee.
As Hannah was only five years old, her parents struggled to find a wig to suit her. Since 2005 the Trust has provided over 2000 real hair wigs, free of charge to children and young people up to the age of 24, who have lost their own hair due to cancer treatment and other conditions. 2025 marks the Little Princess Trusts’ 20th Anniversary of its foundation.
One brilliant idea has made a huge difference. The mother of a girl who was the recipient of a wig said “These wigs are not to hide hair loss but to crown courage and bravery”.
Annelisa didn’t stop there; on Tuesday last she spoke about her hair cut, donation and the charities she had chosen, to her school friends and teachers for ‘Show and Tell’. There were lots of questions and no doubt she has inspired others to grow their hair so they can help too.
Annelisa along her parents, brothers and family would like to express their gratitude to all who donated towards the fundraising efforts and for all the support and good wishes throughout the process.
Primary School Enrolment
Lanesborough Primary School is now accepting enrolments for September 2025. Enrolment applications are available from the school. Please contact the school on the following email address: smgslb2020@gmail.comm or by phone at 043 3321545.
At Lanesborough Primary School, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential.
We pride ourselves on fostering an atmosphere of happiness and positivity where children feel safe to explore, learn and grow. The talented and caring staff works tirelessly to ensure that every child is given the tools and encouragement they need to succeed academically, socially and emotionally.
We are proud of our vibrant school community, where inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and ensure that all children feel respected and supported as they navigate their educational journey. Join us and discover the exciting opportunities awaiting your child here in Lanesborough Primary School.
Coaching continues for game of 25
There was a great response to the new initiative of coaching for new players or those who want to refresh their game skills of 25 in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse. Training will continue every Tuesday night at 8.30pm. This is separate from the regular game and everyone is welcome to go along and enjoy the casual learning the skills of 25.
Search for a Star
The Rathcline fundraiser ‘Search for a Star’ proved to be a wonderful night of entertainment. The full programme of the night was captured in video and now you can avail of a wonderful night in the comfort of your own home as the club have USB’s on sale of the show. The USB’s are available in O’Brien’s at a cost of €15.
Community Challenge on Friday
The final countdown is on as we approach the start lines for the 2025 Roscommon Community Challenge. There is huge interest in this 2 day event which is taking place on Friday evening March 7th with a choice of a 5 or 8km walk or run and continues on Saturday March 8th with a 70km leisurely cycle around Roscommon and East Galway. Roscommon Special Olympics and Roscommon Sports Park are this year’s chosen Charities.
This community event is for everyone walkers, runners, joggers and cyclists of all abilities. If previous years Challenges are anything to go by and with the level of interest in this year’s one so far organisers are predicting that this could be the biggest one yet. There has been huge response from members of the public who signed up for the associated training plan with 130 people join in on the first night of the year.
Cycling Clubs locally are using this spin out as their first event of the 2025 season so all in all the weekend promises to be one of fun and community.
The event will kick off with the choice of either a 5 or an 8 k walk or run starting at 8pm sharp from Roscommon Community Sports Park. Participants are encouraged to arrive early as parking will be at a premium and to also give themselves an opportunity to take part in the lively pre-race warm up. This warm up will be led by Liam Hannon Personal Trainer. After your walk and run, its back into the Sports Park for some delicious post event treats. You will be musically entertained throughout the night by resident DJ Ashe as she belts out the tunes. As with last year, the last mile of this run will be dedicated to the memory of the late Maire Allen, a lady synonymous with Roscommon Special Olympics and indeed many other voluntary groups. Maire passed away in September 2023 but her legacy and good work in the area of special needs and disability will never be forgotten.
On Saturday March 8th our leisurely cycle will depart from the sports park at 9am to enjoy 70km of mainly flat road that will see us tour the general Roscommon East Galway area with a refreshment stop in Kilkerrin. Then it’s back to the Clubhouse where we meet up for some fabulous post cycle food from our old friend Paddy Paella. Join us later on that evening for a post event wind down in Foxes Pub Roscommon Town. Participants for both days are encouraged to register in advance on Eventbrite/Roscommon Community Challenge.
Without doubt, none of this would be possible without the encouragement and professionalism received from Roscommon Sports Partnership and organisers are extremely grateful to CEO Noel Feeley and his staff David Brady, Atalia Tavares John Joe Nally and Noelle Carling. A very special word of gratitude to Martin Hannon in the office. Check out our Social Media sites Roscommon Community Challenge for further information.
For further details please contact Jacqueline McCormack 0861721181
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 24th February. The winning pool amounted to a wonderful €560. The outcome of the draw proved to be a local lady Olive Ginty, Ballyleague. As usual the winning cheque can always be collected in O’Brien’s.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is greatly appreciated, and your great support is highlighted by the large pools every week – thank you.
Notes inclusions
Anybody that wants items included in the local notes is advised that they have their note with me on a Sunday night at the very latest. This is to ensure inclusion in the notes of the following week.
Access for All boat
Have you availed of the wonderful experience on our doorstep? The Access for All boat is for everybody and it takes you on a 90 minute trip out onto the lake as see its beauty and some of the islands on Lough Ree. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs, but you don’t have to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. Winter sailing times daily for the 90 minute trip are 11.00am and 1pm until the end of March. Guided fishing excursions can also be organised. Advanced booking is recommended. You can contact by email www.loughreeboattrips.com or phone 089 2625505 or 043 33 84175
Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club AGM
The Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club held their AGM in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown on Sat evening last. The out-going chairman; John O’Connor, in his address thanked all members who helped out during the year and especially at the inaugural harvest day festival in September. He reiterated that in 2025 our festival will go ahead again and it is hoped this year it will be bigger and better than before. After the secretary and treasurer delivered their reports the new officer board for 2025 was elected. Tributes were paid to the out-going secretary John Farrell, who was not on this occasion seeking re-election.
Officers elected for 2025 are; Honorary President, John Lyons, Cloonerra, Strokestown; Chairman, John O’Connor, Tully, Fourmilehouse; Secretary, Michael Farrell, Curraghroe; Treasurer, Bernie Kearney Jnr., Grange, Fourmilehouse; P.R.O. Henry Owens, Lismehy, Strokestown; and Safety Officer, Paul Gill, Corbohill, Strokestown. Votes of sympathy were extended to the following; the relatives of Councillor Anthony (Tony) Waldron, Castleplunkett, Castlerea; the relatives of Gussie Dolan, Fourmilehouse; and the relatives of John Joe and Padraig Kearns, of Clooncagh and Carnaska. Padraig was the motorcyclist who led many tractor runs in our region over the last few years.
The club members will be partaking in St. Patrick’s Day and Easter parades in the following weeks. Membership is open to all people who have a love or fascination with vintage cars or machinery. Anyone wishing to join the club can do so by contacting any of the above officer board or Tel: 087 9074869 or 086 3458601 or email: midroscommonvintageclub@gmail.com Membership fees for the coming year are now due at the slightly increased rate of 35eu.
Céilí Dancing
Are you interested in perfecting your Céilí Dancing or just want to learn the Céilí steps? Ceili Dancing will take place in Cloonycolgan Community Centre, Donamon every Tuesday evening at 8.30pm under the guidance of Kevin Kelly. Traditional Irish dances are taught from beginners to completion. Everyone is welcome. Beginners get special attention.
Cemetery Sunday – Very Important Advance Notice
I have just been informed there will be significant changes to the dates and times of the Blessing of the Graves (Cemetery Sunday) at our three cemeteries in 2025.
On Saturday 12th July there will be 6.30pm Mass in St. Mary’s Church followed by the Blessing of the Graves at St. John’s cemetery.
On Sunday 13th July there will be NO 11am Mass in the Church. Mass in Clonbonny Cemetery will take place at 1pm. Later in the day 14th Mass will take place at Rathcline Cemetery at 6pm.
The Sunday schedule is weather dependant and if the weather is inclement Masses will take place in St. Mary’s Church.
Dementia Memory Club
The Roscommon Dementia Memory Club is designed for those that are living with dementia and their carer or friend or plus one! A café-like set up, followed by activities, storytelling, reminiscence, music, song and dance. The club offers a great opportunity for persons living with dementia & their carer to socialize and promote improved mental and physical wellbeing, and more importantly to have fun! You don’t have to dance, you can watch and enjoy and contribute in other ways! Come along and see for yourself at Roscommon Music Social Club, the Quad Youth Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon Town. F42 CH70 every Thursday 11:30am to 1pm. Contact Irene on 087 108 0650 or email IreneTabb@westernalzheimers.ie
Visit Corlea
Right on our doorstep the fabulous Iron Age Trackway is situated in Corlea just 13km (7m) from Lanesboro. This very unique Trackway has an 18m long section of original Trackway the largest ever discovered in Europe is displayed at the Visitor Centre. You learn how people lived at the time and murals depict implements of the time.
This is one of Ireland’s most famous hidden treasures and it is a place that should be visited and bring your visitors to this wonderful experience.
Visiting the centre is free of charge and the excellent local facilitators will bring you thought the experience and leave you in awe such is their knowledge.
Brothers of Charity seeks support
Volunteers needed: Are you interested in supporting someone with an intellectual disability, to be part of the community in which they live? Volunteers provide a valuable contribution by connecting people to their local communities and enrich the lives of the people we support, by bringing friendship and fun in to their lives. Volunteers can do this by attending local social activities or sporting events together, going walking, swimming, or just sharing interests and chatting over a cup of coffee/tea. Volunteers will be supported in their role by the Volunteer Coordinator. If you are interested in volunteering in the Brothers of Charity Services in Roscommon please contact Edel Crehan on edel.crehan@bocsi.ie or 0874887314 for more details.
Short Breaks Scheme: Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children and adults who have an intellectual disability? Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, Homeshare Roscommon are recruiting host carers. Training and support provided. Tax exempt Allowances paid. For further information email Homeshareroscommon@bocsi.ie or phone Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.
Lanesboro Garda Station
Lanesboro Garda Station has just posted a notice telling of its opening times where the station will have a member of the force in attendance for the public. Lanesboro station will be open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 11am. The station will be open at those times unless the local Garda is dealing with a situation that requires their attendance.
Local Health Service
Local Heath Service is available at Roscommon University Hospital. The service will deal with urgent and routine health problems. The Freephone phone number to ring is 1800 700700.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@alone.ie or phone 086 0145 829.
Line Dancing For All
They say that Line Dancing, stimulates the brain, reduces stress, reduces risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, increases mental capacity, improves posture and balance, tones the body, strengthens bones and muscles, provides opportunity to socialize and meet people and its suitable and popular for all ages and all abilities.
Line Dancing classes take place every Friday morning 11am at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town.
Line Dancing classes every Sunday at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town for beginners from 6pm to 7pm and Improvers from 7pm to 8pm
Dance classes takes place in Kilbride, Four Mile House every Tuesday 7pm followed by:
Jive & Waltz classes 8 45pm.
Co. Longford Citizens Advice Centre
Co. Longford Citizens Information Service has recently been restructured and is currently under new management.
They continue to provide free, impartial, and confidential information, advice, and advocacy services to the public on social services, rights, and entitlements. The range of areas covered by the citizens information centre are extremely wide including social welfare rights and entitlements and other social issues such as employment, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights, all where people need access to information.
The way people access the services changed during Covid and now they currently deal with a large number of queries over the telephone, however, they continue to provide our drop-in times and welcome people to their face-to-face service five mornings a week from the Longford office. The services are provided by experienced trained Information Officers who are there to help you.
The centre is located on level 1 within Longford Shopping Centre and direction can be obtained at the reception desk from Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 5.00pm. The office closes for lunch from 1pm until 2pm.
The Employability Service
Is an Employment and Recruitment Service to assist people with a disability or health issue to pursue and maintain employment in the open labour market? If you are over 18, have a disability or health issue and would consider working part-time then you should contact Employment Services Roscommon support to help find you a job in your area. This is a confidential and free individualised service funded by the Department of Social Protection.
Are you managing mental health issues? There is the opportunity for Individual Placement and Support (IPS) that is funded by the HSE and offers a range of tailored personalised supports to people using mental health services who wish to work. For further information you should phone 090 66 28608 or call/text 087 3745307. They can also be contacted via email at info@rosemp.ie
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of those addicted to alcohol are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral. The meetings take place every Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
The club is extremely grateful for your on-going tremendous support.
ALONE
ALONE is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home.
Our work is for all older people and aims to improve physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. We have a national network of staff and volunteers who provide an integrated system of Support Coordination, Practical Supports, Befriending, a variety of Phone Services, Social Prescribing, Housing with Support and Assistive Technology.
We use individualised support plans, to address health, financial benefits and supports, social care, housing, transport and other arising needs using technology and through harnessing other services.
We work to empower the whole sector of community support for older people through our Community Impact Network that provides Training, IT support and resources to other organisations.
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to Covid-19. Professional staff is available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week from 8am until 8pm. Text TALK to 50808 to begin.
Local Health Service
The health service is here for us all, from routine to urgent calls. HSELive is here 7 days a week to answer questions. The number to ring is Freephone 1800 700700.
Roscommon University Hospital Injury Unit is available from 8am to 8pm seven days, a week and the contact number is 09066 32212.
Emergency Department deals with serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies if you need urgent medical help. They are open 24 hours a day and can be contacted by phoning 999 or 112.
Smart Recovery
SMART recovery is an evidence-based addiction recovery support group where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour.
There is a meeting every Friday evening from 7pm to 8.30pm in Vita House, Roscommon. For information you should phone Conor 086 1702912 or info@smartrecovery.ie
GROW
Grow is a Community Mental Health Movement which meets every Monday at 11am in the Community Mental Health Centre, Dublin Rd., Longford. If you are feeling lonely, isolated or suffering from stress, please feel free to attend. You can call Assumpta for any further information on 086 8114135.
St. Mary’s Church Lanesboro
Priest contacts: If you have a need to contact any one of the priests you can do so by phoning Fr. Merlyn Kenny 086 0603433 or Fr. Turlough Baxter 087 9972259.
You can also contact parish secretary Maireád Rooney by calling into the presbytery from Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm.or she can be contacted on the phone at 3321166.
Come Follow Me: Parents and grandparents of 7 to 11 year old children are invited to a short presentation in the Parish Hub on Wednesday 19th March. The presentation will last for one hour and it will commence at 7pm. ‘Come Follow Me’ is a new movement taking root in Ireland – it is a parish/home based programme to help children grow in faith.
Cemetery Sunday changes: On Saturday 12th July 2025 there will be 6.30pm Mass in St. Mary’s Church followed by the Blessing of the Graves at St. John’s cemetery.
On Sunday 13th July there will be NO 11am Mass in the Church. Mass in Clonbonny Cemetery will take place at 1pm. Later in the day 13th Mass will take place at Rathcline Cemetery at 6pm.
The Sunday schedule is weather dependant and if the weather is inclement Masses will take place in St. Mary’s Church.
The Ardagh and Clonmacnois Lourdes Pilgrimage 2025 will be led by Bishop Paul Connell, is open for booking now. It will take place from May 30th – June 4th costing from €969. For more details contact Joe Walsh Tours at 01-2410800 or email – info@joewalshtours.ie . Pilgrims who would like to travel with the Special Assisted Section should apply to Margaret McDonald on 086 3918577. Those interested in joining as a Nursing Staff Member for the Pilgrimage are asked to contact their local parish or the Pilgrimage Matron – Margaret McDonald on 086 3918577.
Defibrillator Course: Ballagh/Curraghroe defibrillator committee would like to invite anyone in the Kilgefin parish or surrounding areas to complete a defibrillator course and if they could contact Danny Cox 086 8142112 or Jean Fallon 086 8320019 to be added for the course. The list, for this vital and potential lifesaving ability, will be compiled with your support over the coming weeks.
Brothers of Charity: The Brothers of Charity in Roscommon are seeking volunteers.
If you would like to help somebody with an intellectual disability, to be part of the community that they live in, let Edel Crehan know of your interest and you may contact her on 087 4887314.
Would you like to provide home from home, short breaks for children and adults, who have an intellectual disability? There will be an allowance paid. Details can be obtained from Catherine on 080 6628500 or 087 2126607.
Adoration: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues on Tuesday’s in the Prayer Room
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Confession time in the Prayer Room takes place on the first Friday of each month from 6.30pm to 7pm.The next opportunity is on Friday 7th March.
Smart Recovery: Smart recovery is an evidence based addiction recovery group, where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour. There is a meeting every Friday evening in Vita House in Roscommon Town from 7pm to 8.30pm. For information contact Conor at 086 1702919 or info@smartrecovery.iee
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Readers: Ballagh Church is looking for people to read at Mass on Saturday nights. If you can commit and would like to join a rota you are asked to contact Fr. Dan or email kilgefinparish21@gmail.com or Vivienne at 0862626639.
Ballagh Church Meeting: All parishioners are invited to a meeting in Ballagh Church on Tuesday 11th March at 7pm. A number of important issues will be discussed: Maintenance, Sacristan’s retirement, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion to name a few. You are asked to make every effort to attend.
Station Masses: Station Masses in the parish will commence on Monday next 3rd March, The station Masses very successful in September. If anyone would like to host the station mass in their home they should contact Fr. Dan to arrange a date.
ALONE needs volunteers: Would you be willing to provide companionship or make friendly calls to an older person in your community? The commitment is for one hour per week. ALONE is seeking volunteers and if you can give just one hour we encourage you to do so. Full training and support will be provided. If you are interested please sign up at https://a lone.ie/volunteers/ For more information contact Helena : Helena.madden@alone.ie phone 086 0145829
25 Coaching: Coaching for new players or those who want to refresh their game skills of 25 will take place in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse every Tuesday at 8.30pm. This is separate from the regular game and everyone is welcome
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Senior League
Our Senior Men and their new management team of Ian Bradley, Gerard O’Donnell and Martin Reynolds get their 2025 Cora Systems Senior League underway next Friday night, March 7th in Woodmount against Padraig Pearses. Throw in is at 8pm. Please support. The very best of luck to the panel and management on Friday and for the coming year.
U16 Girls
Well done to our U16 girls and their management who got their 2025 league campaign off to a winning start on Sunday evening last. Thank you to Eire Óg for a great game.
Junior Ladies
Our Junior Ladies get their 2025 Junior League underway next Sunday March 9th in Ballyleague. Throw in against St. Brigid’s is at 11am. All support is welcome. Best of luck to the ladies and their management25 Card Game
There is a 25 Card Game every Tuesday at 8.30pm in the clubhouse. There is a separate coaching for beginners every Tuesday in February at 8.30pm. All welcome
Clubhouse Available
The clubhouse is available if you wish to book a party in our function room. We cater for all occasions. Please contact Gerry Donlon or any committee member if you wish to make a booking.
Volunteers
As the underage season is fast approaching we are actively seeking any parents or club members who are willing to volunteer and give a hand at our underage trainings and matches. If you are interested please contact Steve Smith or any committee member. Thank you.
Registration Night
The deadline for registration is March 31st. Please contact Steve Smith, Ursula Kilcoyne or any committee member if you are having difficulty.
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