Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Showing Interest in Lanesboro
Last week Cllr Sean Mimnagh was quite vocal both in his interview with the Longford Leader and on Facebook about his views for tourism prospects for Lanesboro and Ballyleague. Since his election Sean is showing a great acumen and foresight for the area and his vision appears to be that we should be concentrating to develop a tourism business strategy using what Sean describes as our greatest asset and what people call the ‘jewel in the crown’ that is the river Shannon.
Sean is also in constant contact with Bord na Mona and Fáilte Ireland regarding the new walkway/greenway that is about to go into construction that will be adding an additional amenity to what is already available. This walkway/greenway will link to the one already a few years completed and when all is completed there will be a link from Lanesboro to Clondra for cyclists and walkers. It will also be a connection to the 145km of the Royal Canal that can take you all the way back to Dublin.
Our local MEP Ciaran Mullooly is also in the process along with Sean launching a two pronged initiative to have the fishing stretch, formerly the hot water stretch, returned to past glory. Once the mecca for fishing and renowned worldwide for top class fishing this initiative to have the area dredged, deepened, upgraded and restocked will we hope once again make fishing from the banks of the Shannon in Lanesboro the only place to be during the fishing season. This proposal when it comes to fruition should again be a huge tourist attraction and once again draw the many fishermen back to Lanesboro. Ciaran is also seeking meetings for job prospects on the site of the power station and the adjacent SSE site.
Just after writing the above piece I saw what could be a potential game changer in a Social Media message from Ciaran about a decision from the European Parliament.
As he says in the message the two communities most affected with the closure of ESB and consequently the total demise of Bord have receive little to nothing from the EU Just Transition fund so far. He brought this issue to the European Parliament and in the past day the Regional Development committee agreed to support workers and families first in areas hit by the job losses. Ciaran suggested that a special JTF economic zone – similar to the Shannon Free Zone – which could benefit from dedicated funding, temporary and targeted tax incentives for business and investment and quicker planning decision.
Ciaran goes on to say that “so I want investments in high quality public services have a crucial role in building social resilience and coping with crisis so I want the people who live with their families in the region directly adjacent to the power station get first preference when it comes to grant aid in the new Just Transition Fund”.
Ciaran aims to ensure that the new proposals will apply when it comes to the new EUJFT fund that will be launched in the coming weeks in the month of July.
Potentially, this is fantastic news for our community and let us hopes that through this wonderful incentive we will once again be the job hub for the wider area, attract entrepreneurs and investors. Developments and investments in the area can arrest the current rural decline and stop the brain drain of our younger and brightest and we will again be an area of prosperity.
If you have ideas for the tourism development or you have investment designs for Lanesboro/Ballyleague you should contact Sean or Ciaran and I am sure they will be of great assistance.
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Replacing the Old Bailey Bridge
Being of a certain vintage growing up in Lanesboro and Ballyleague we would have been very familiar with the sounds of the old Bailey bridge. For those that are too young to know, the Bailey bridge was a wooden bridge spanning the early part of the bridge, over the main archway, on the Ballyleague side. The rattle from the bridge as traffic crossed was very loud as the timbers were loose, it was said that the noise could be heard as far away as Cullentra.
This bridge was replaced in the 1960s and replaced with a concrete span in 1971 that stands to this very day. The peace and tranquillity the new bridge brought to Lanesboro and Ballyleague was incredible and no more were the residents awoken from their slumber during the night by the rattling sounds of the wooden Bailey bridge.
Pictured, below, is a photograph received from Mary O’Neill, 3 Knock, of her late husband Sean who was employed at the building of the new bridge and from the limited view there is very little change on the Main Street apart from Paddy Kenny’s garage gone.
In the past number of weeks we have just seen two very successful events take place and it makes us reminisce about the times of the carnivals that took place over a solid 7 days and nights with all the leading Showbands playing here. It makes us think back to the glory and boom days of the 60’s and 70s, the huge numbers of visitors coming to fish and visit as well as enjoy themselves with all the summer entertainment we had to offer. Unfortunately, the Lough Ree Monster Festival, born to replicate and bring back the excitement of the Marty McNally carnivals, did not have the same effect. Another festival that took place a few times in the community was the Taste of the Lakelands Food Festival and in 2016 it is estimated that it brought a crowd of over 6,000 to the area. The annual Regattas on the Shannon were always enormous features of the summer programme with leading Irish swimmers travelling from all over Ireland to participate such was the national popularity of this regatta. Seeing the banks lined with huge numbers while all us kids benefitted of all the amusements that came to town as part of the event. To an extent the annual Lanesboro Two Provinces Triathlon takes place every July and it brings an incredible number of participants and supporters to the area. Presently there is great work being done by Stephen Down in the development of a Food Hub and hopefully we will see days of old in relation to food and hope huge crowds will return to Lanesboro and Ballyleague for many happier, exciting and successful days.
There are many more memories that can be shared and hopefully this little trip down memory lane will generate a great deal of chat, revive memories and enthuse many of the newer generation in the community to cultivate many new exciting and vibrant community events and attractions.
Retirement
Lanesboro Ballyleague Credit Union was founded in 1967 some 58 years ago. For more than half of those years there was one person a feature of the Credit Union. Una Clarke had over 30+ involvement with the Lanesboro Ballyleague Credit Union and she was a very popular and trusted member of the staff. On Friday last we saw the end of Una’s time when she worked out her final day before her retirement. We wish Una a very happy, healthy and enjoyable retirement.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Bernie Masterson, Lehery, her family and extended family on the death of her sister Eileen (Teresa) Healy, Kilcummin, Killarney, Co. Kerry who passed away on Tuesday 3rd June.
Lanesboro Gun Club
Memberships: The annual membership subscriptions are now due for the forthcoming season. Please contact a member of the committee for assistance with same.
Clays: Practice continues every Saturday evening and Sunday morning. There was a good turnout from the club at the recent Ballinasloe sporting event.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Martha Farrell, Main Street, her sister Ita Farrell, Tullyvrane, their families and their extended families on the death of their sister Bridie’s husband Brendan O’Connor, Mucklagh, Tullamore, who passed away on Monday 23rd June
A Car or €50,000 and/or a chance to see Oasis
Club Longford is delighted to see the wonderful success of three of the county teams they support and especially as they are teams coming from some years of development panels. Club Longford can only be proactive with your support and your support has been immense especially with their yearly draw. It is hoped that in the not too distant future, with their continuous support all teams within the county will be reaching the high standards that the young teams of the hurlers, footballers and Ladies footballers are currently reaching and we will once again see the glory days returning to the teams and county of Longford.
Once again Club Longford will hold their annual Car Draw. Club Longford, formed a few years ago have been to the forefront in raising funds in support of all Longford county teams and the club is supporting the development of mens and ladies football and hurling in the county..
Tickets for a Toyota RAV4, sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors, or a cash option of €50,000 cost just €20 each, 3 for €50, 7 tickets for €100 or 12 tickets for €150 and you are asked once again to be generous in your support. Tickets can be bought in O’Brien’s. The draw will take place on Saturday 19th July.
Buying your tickets early allows early bird entry for 2 tickets to the sold out Oasis concert in Croke Park. The closing date for ticket purchase to be included is midnight Sunday 6th July with draw taking place on Tuesday 8th July. The final early bird draw is for 2 All-Ireland football tickets plus overnight hotel stay. The cut off for purchase of the All-Ireland early bird draw is midnight Tuesday 15th with draw on 16th July.
Your generous support towards the development of football in the county in all grades in both the mens men and women’s games, football and Camogie, will be greatly appreciated.
The ‘Win a Car’ draw has the first prize is a Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid, sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors. Second prize is €1,000 sponsored by Nally Brothers Ballymahon, Third Prize is also €1,000 and it is sponsored by Elgin Energy. Fourth prize is a €300 voucher for the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport sponsored by Source Technical Providers Ltd.
€15,000 still to be won
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning. For the past number of weeks the jackpot has reached it upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers it continues to be abatable for the person with the correct numbers. The draw for this week will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, for the wonderful prize of €15,000. Don’t miss your opportunity to get hold or share in the money.
Last week the draw took placed in O’Brien’s on Tuesday 24th and there was no winner of the draw and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw on 1st July. The numbers drawn were 12, 14, 16 and 23. The winner of the €50 prize was Kathleen Dennigan, c/o Mags and the three €20 winners were Jay Flynn, c/o XLNTEE, K&S McGovern, c/o O’Brien’s and Seamus Reilly, Ballyleague. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 1st July. 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.
St. Faithleach’s, Roscommon, New York
New York 2026 will see the Roscommon senior team travel to play New York GAA in the first round of the Connacht Championship. Every year a Connacht team travels and it has become a huge social event for so many.
For next year, as part of the county trip, the St. Faithleachs GAA club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in Gaelic Park. The game will take place on the week ending Sunday, April 2nd (Easter Sunday). Flights would most likely be going out on the Thursday morning prior to the game and returning on the Monday night after. The club have provisional prices for the trip from a travel agent that is coming in at approximately €1400 per person sharing. Other prices for more than two in a room will also be available. The price will include flights, centrally located hotel and transfers from and to the airport. Match tickets are not included. Booking would involve paying a deposit directly to the travel agent and the remainder closer to the flight date.
At this stage, the club is looking for approximate numbers of people who are likely to go. If you are considering travelling or intending to go you are asked to contact Jimmy Mangan on 086 8177915 or Michael Cleary on 087 2238293 with the names of intended travellers. More details will become available when the game date is confirmed.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 23rd June for a jackpot of €740. The winner of the draw was J.T. Mullen, Cloontuskert who was the winner of the €740. 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.
Dispose of Farm Plastics
The opportunity for all farmers to dispose of the build-up of Farm Plastics comes to the locality on Thursday next 3rd July at St. Faithleach’s GAA club grounds. This is a wonderful opportunity for all the farmers in the parishes of Kilgefin and Rathcline as well as the neighbouring parishes of Newtowncashel, Killashee, Kenagh, Kilbride, Knockcroghery, Roscommon, Tarmonbarry, and Strokestown to dispose of their waste plastic and free up vital farm space.
The ‘bring centre’ will be opened at St. Faithleach’s on 3rd from 9am until 3pm and every farmer is encouraged to avail of this great chance to dispose of their plastic. Below is the material and cost
Silage Wraps/ Pit Covers €60 per half tonne with label code
Small Fertiliser/feed Bags/Liners from Bulk Bags/Pallet wrap Plastic – €10 per bag (500kg Fertiliser size bag)
Bulk Fertiliser /Feed Bags (Liners Removed) – €10 per bag (500kg Fertiliser size bag)
Bulk Fertiliser /Feed Bags (Liners Removed) – €10 per bag (500kg Fertiliser size bag)
Chemical Drums (Triple rinsed/ NO OIL DRUMS) – €10 per bag (500kg Fertiliser size bag)
Net/Twine – €10 per bag (500kg Fertiliser size bag).
Meet our Literary Giants
It is with a great sense of pride that we, once again, welcome back two of Lanesboro’s literary sons Colin Carberry and Jack Harte to Lanesboro Library on Wednesday 23rd July from 6pm. Both men will be reading from their extensive collection of work. A number of times the library has welcomed both Colin and Jack throughout the years and it is always a wonderful and a special occasion to have both men back and reading from their work collections. As with both men they are also excellent at recalling tales of their own times past and memories in our community.
You can register for all library events in the library or online by visiting www.longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
Adventure Races
Bóthar na Naomh Adventure Races will take place in Cloone, Co. Leitrim on Saturday 2nd August. This is an adventure race with a difference. It’s a race where fun and pure hardship are guaranteed, and the aim is to provide a high standard race that should attract beginners to elite racers. This will be an ideal way to challenge yourself against the challenges of the race. There will also be a Duathlon as part of the day’s events. Registration will open at 9am on the day with the Youth 5k Adventure Run (7-16 years) starting at 10am. The adults 5km Adventure Run will commence at 11am with the Duathlon commencing at 11.30. The Duathlon is for those over 18 years. The entry fees are: Duathlon €50, €25 for the adult 5km race and €10 for the U16 race.
National Grandparents Pilgrimage
Join the National Grandparents Pilgrimage at Knock Shrine on Sunday, 27th July, celebrating the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Grandparents, families and all the faithful are invited to this joyful celebration. The day includes Anointing of the Sick in the Basilica at 2.30pm; Mass at 3pm, and rosary procession (weather permitting).
Roscommon Supporters Outing
Roscommon GAA Social Initiative annual outing takes place on Saturday, July 19th to Westport and Achill with the bus leaving Tulsk GAA club grounds at 8.30 a.m. for Westport. The group will take a Boat Trip around Clew Bay, move on to Achill Island before returning to Tulsk. Breakfast served on arrival at the boat. Dinner will be on the return journey from Achill. Cost €85. For further details or bookings you should contact Sean 086 8388756; Mary 086 0600197; Kathleen 087 4122348.
Environmental Worker required
Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op is looking for a worker to join them via their Community Enterprise programme. Eligibility to participate on the CE scheme is; you must be over 21 and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for one year or more or 18 years of age and over for certain disadvantaged groups.
You can register your interest by contacting a case officer in your local Intreo Centre or contact supervisor Sean 086 1427143.
The job offers a developmental opportunity with no experience required as training will be given. Duties: grass cutting, strimming, litter picking and upkeep of the village.
Pilgrimage to Lough Derg
The annual one-day pilgrimage to lough Derg will take place on Sunday 24th August with a bus leaving Kenagh at 6.30am and picking up passengers en route to Lanesboro and Ballyleague arriving at 7am. All enquiries and bookings should be directed to Mary at 043 33 21969.
Rathcline heading to the Galway Races
The annual Rathcline Race Day, sponsored by Keane’s Supervalu, Lanesboro, at the legendary Galway Races will take once again take place on Monday 28th July. There has always been a great number from the community travelling to what is always a most enjoyable day at the famous Galway races. There is an ideal opportunity for businesses and companies to avail of the opportunity to create a corporate event for a great day out for their clients and workers at the Galway Races. There is wonderful interest from so many people who have already experienced the excitement that the day has to offer and also from others that have heard of the fabulous occasion created by Rathcline. The ticket package includes Racecourse admission, complimentary car parking, champagne reception on arrival, racing tipster to aid you through the card, a Four course Gourmet Meal, complimentary wine with the meal, Afternoon Tea, Reserved table for the day. There will also be a prize for the Best dressed lady and Gent and after meal entertainment with Mickey and Duxy. There will be Tote betting facilities as well as a full bar facility.
If you would like to book or find out more information you can contact the organising committee of Liam Connerton 086 8776405; Stephen Rooney 086 3176301; Seadna Ryan 085 1595512; Pat Connerton 086 1617501 and Lorraine Farrell 087 6827966. Per person the cost of the full day package is €150 and early booking is advisable.
Kids Triathlon
Recognised as one of Ireland’s best triathlons the Lanesboro Tri Club will once again host its Two Provinces Kids Triathlon on Friday evening 11th July for all the youngsters aged between 8 and 15 years that are training hard at the moment for their big evening of competition. Acknowledged as ‘The Family-Friendly Triathlon’ Lanesboro Tri Club will as is the tradition on the evening before the main Two Provinces Triathlon host the Two Provinces Kids Triathlon where they will welcome up to 100 contestants. Youngsters come from far and wide to take part in this race of a 100m swim, 5k cycle and 1k run and when you see their efforts through the race and their sheer delight at the finish you realise what a fantastic event the Kids Triathlon is and how much enjoyment they gain from the event. Entries can be made online at www.triathlonireland.com
Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon
It is only a short number of weeks from the biggest occasion of the year in Lanesboro and Ballyleague the 2025 Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon and by all accounts the entries so far the entries are exceeding the numbers of last year. The event of the year in Lanesboro and Ballyleague will take place on Saturday 12th July and the tri Club and the local community will again welcome competitors from all over Ireland and will rise to the occasion in making it the best and friendliest Triathlon in Ireland. If you are still contemplating making an entry you can do so at Entries can be made online at www.triathlonireland.com
Lanesboro Library
Library Groups
Knitting & Crochet group meet every Tuesday 2-4pm.
Poetry & Music circle meet on 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 4–5.30pm.
Summer Stars
Summer Stars returns once again!
Call into the library to register for this summers’ reading challenge and your chance to win lots of wonderful prizes!
Upcoming Children’s Events
Kids Movie Club continuing every Saturday for the Summer
July 10th – Coding & Robotics Workshop (8-12yrs)
July 12th – Teddy Bears Picnic (4-8yrs)
July 18th – Bodhrán Workshop (7-12yrs)
July 29th – Tote Bag Design (6+yrs)
Celebrating Lanesboro’s Literary Links
We welcome back two of Lanesboro’s literary sons Colin Carberry and Jack Harte to Lanesboro Library on Wednesday 23rd July from 6pm. Both will be reading from their extensive collection of work. We have welcomed Colin and Jack at the library many times throughout the years and it is always a wonderful occasion.
You can register for all library events in the library or online by visiting longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
You can register for all library events in the library or online by visiting longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Local Fire-Fighters needed
There is a great need for the numbers employed as local fire-fighters at Lanesboro Fire Station. If you work or live locally and feel you can be at the fire station with a short reaction time then come along and enrol for the training programme and assessment. The training is wide and varied and following the intensive training your qualification will be recognised as a medical responder where they can provide first aid until medical support arrives and the training enables you to be capable of making lifesaving interventions. Some can even go forward for training to be recognised as first responders. The training can be a springboard to many great things. Looking at the development of the local brigade staff over the years you see a remarkable comradery and their abilities continue outside of the fire station environment.
Living in the parishes of Rathcline and Kilgefin or the western side of Killashee you should be within the required time.
Lanesboro Fire Station is looking for a number people male and female to make applications to Longford County Council Fire Department. The stipulation is that you live or work within a quick response time from time alert from the fire station on the Longford Road means there are lots of younger and stronger young men and ladies well capable of doing this great community work. This is a wonderful opportunity for so many people living on both sides of the bridge and the hinterlands.
Full training will be given to all those that pass the interview and a warm welcome will be given to all the new recruits. The job of as a fire-fighter requires those applying to be adaptable and those selected will receive a good remuneration and as well will be part of a dedicated team of local fire-fighters.
To apply you should email hrrecruitment@longfordcoco.ie
Cloontuskert Cemetery Update
Cemetery Sunday will take place on Sunday 10th August at 6pm.
The landscaping of the new cemetery is now complete and it is looking beautiful in the evening sunshine. A lot of hard work has gone in over the past few weeks to get all the work completed. The shrubs when mature will really enhance the cemetery. The final phase is the replacement of the internal roads for which the community are currently seeking funding. 40 years ago on 5th May is when all the work started – the cemetery and its environs have come a long way since then. Due to a recent fundraiser and very donation to the cemetery committee the committee finds itself in a position to bring forward the plan for a complete refurbishment of the Mass enclosure that was earmarked for 2027. It will be a fitting tribute to mark the 40th Anniversary.
Meanwhile work began on Saturday last to replace the old cracked floor which is required to enable the erection of the permanent structure and the plan is also to replace the limestone altar, which has cracked, with a new granite altar. The current target is to have all completed in time for Cemetery Sunday on the 10th August.
Volunteers Wanted
You are invited to be a volunteer for a very interesting piece of work as Roscommon Community Tourist Office is looking for volunteers to help with providing information to tourists/visitors to Roscommon town. A good general knowledge of the County would be helpful, but training will be provided. If you can spare 3/4 hours per week and are interested in joining their small team please call 090 6625613 between 10am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday or email touristvolunteers@gmail.com
Visit Corlea in 2025
Hidden deep in Longford’s boglands, near Kenagh, lays a true wonder: the Corlea Iron Age Roadway. Built in 148 BC, this remarkable Togher—Europe’s largest discovered—was part of a significant route way, possibly connecting the ritual centre of Uisneach to the royal site of Rathcroghan. Crafted from solid oak planks, peat quickly swallowed the Trackway, perfectly preserving it for over 2,000 years.
Step inside the visitor centre to see an 18-metre stretch of this ancient road up close! Discover our ancestors’ stories, mysteries, and incredible craftsmanship.
Right on our doorstep the fabulous Iron Age Trackway situated in Corlea just 13km (7m) from Lanesboro is beginning to gain its rightful acknowledgement as a wonderful and unique place to visit. This very unique Trackway has an 18m long section of original Trackway the largest ever discovered in Europe and it is on display 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 hugely and it is an ideal place to bring visitors to this wonderful experience.
Visiting the centre is free of charge and the excellent and knowledgeable local facilitators will bring you though the experience and leave you in awe with the history of the Trackway.
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
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 of the 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.
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
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.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock: The annual Ardagh Clonmacnois Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 7th December, The ceremonies commence with the Anointing of the Sick at 2.30pm followed by Pilgrimage Mass at 3pm.
Knock Shrine Parish Pilgrimage: You are invited to go along to the Knock Shrine Parish Pilgrimage on Friday 18th July. You are invited to join in the conversation with Marion Carroll who was cured at Knock in 1989. The day will offer Mass and Rosary at the Apparition Chapel, Confessions, Anointing of the Sick, your opportunity to join the conversation with Marion and also your own private time to explore the tranquillity of Knock shrine ground. The will be a bus leaving Lanesboro at 9.20 on the morning. It will also leave Clondra at 8.45am and Killashee Church at 9am at a cost of €15.
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.
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 4th July.
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
The Legion of Mary: The legion of Mary organising a day trip to Lough Derg on Saturday 6th September 2025. The bus will be leaving the Sacred Heart Church car park at 6.30 am. For bookings please contact Teresa 087 1206343 or Noreen on 086 3529916 (090 6625209).
Pilgrimage to Lourdes: The Elphin and Achonry Diocese Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from Friday 29th August to Wednesday 3rd September. Application forms for the Assisted Pilgrim Section are available from Fr. Ray Milton, P.P. Pilgrimage Director, St. John’s Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (090 666 111 5). The closing date for receipt of Assisted Pilgrimage applications is 16th June. Nominations for the Youth section are being sought from parishes for young people between the ages of 17 to 20 years to participate in the pilgrimage. Youth must be nominated through their priest/Chaplin. Forms are available from the local parish office. For all enquiries regarding the pilgrimage contact Joe Walsh Tours at 01 2410 800 or email info@joewalshtours.ie
Roscommon County Council: Roscommon County Council have proposed traffic calming measures in the Ballyleague area. The measures proposed will have an effect on the parking at the church and also at the hall. This proposed work will also affect access to the church grounds. A copy of the plans is available in the porch of Ballyleague church.
Diocesan Advisors in Primary Schools: The Diocese of Elphin seeks to recruit two part-time Diocesan Advisors at Primary School level to support the Catholic ethos and ‘Grow in Love’ programme in the catholic schools throughout the diocese. Those interested in applying should contact Fr. Michael Drumm as soon as possible at 083 8833585.
Young Adult Pilgrimage to Italy: The Young Adult Pilgrimage to Italy will take place from 29th July to 8th August with Bishop Kevin Doran. The pilgrimage is open to 18 – 35 year olds. The cost is €995 pps.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
New York 2026:
St. Faithleachs GAA Club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in 2026. The game will take place on the week ending Sunday, April 2nd (Easter Sunday). Flights would likely be on the Thursday morning prior to the game and returning on the Monday night after. We have provisional prices for the trip from a travel agent of approx. €1400 per person sharing. Other prices for more than two in a room will be available. The price will include flights, centrally located hotel and transfers from and to the airport. Match tickets are not included. Booking would involve paying a deposit directly to the travel agent early on and the remainder closer to the flight date.
At this stage, we are looking for approximate numbers of people who are likely to go. If interested, please contact either Jimmy Mangan on 0868177915 or Michael Cleary on 0872238293 with names of intended travellers. More details will be available when the game date is confirmed.
Cúl Camps:
Cúl Camps are being held on the club grounds on the week beginning July 7th to July 11th.
Booking online is advised @ www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie
LGFA Festival
The 2025 U12 LGFA Festival will take place at St. Faithleachs GAA Club on Saturday 5th of July from 10:45am with plenty of fun and games in store. Some of the Roscommon Intermediate ladies will be in attendance. Food Grill, Music, Castlerea Brass Band, Face painting and a raffle. Admission is €5. All welcome to attend.
Cúl Camps: Cúl Camps will be held on the club grounds on the week beginning 7th July to 11th July. Booking online is advised at www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie
Cards: The weekly card game continues every Tuesday evening with the first deal at 8pm. New players always welcome. Refreshments will be served on the night.
Clubhouse If any members wish to use the clubhouse please contact Gerry Donlon or any committee member.