Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Glorious Triathlon Festival
Last weekend we saw the return of the annual Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon and National series return to the banks of the Shannon and the roads in Ballyleague and Lanesboro. The build up to this year’s event was blessed with great summer weather with wall to wall sunshine as the course and transition area was prepared. Excitement this year was growing from early on and the entire event seemed to catch the imagination of local people as well those further away from the community.
As usual, the events started on the Friday evening when the Kidathon took pride of place for almost 100 young athletes. Impeccable stewardship by the committee ensured that this was going to be a fabulously well run event and one that the young athletes would create memories that would last a lifetime. To see the joy of completion as well as doing the very best for themselves on all their faces as they crossed the finishing line was a joy to behold. Young people can be extremely competitive and this was clearly seen with the extreme efforts every one of the young athletes put in, Congratulations to all the youngsters and there is no doubt that they will be seen for many years to come competing in the Kidathon and Two Provinces triathlon.
With the sun beaming down I arrived into town on Saturday morning at 6.45am to prepare the shop for the day ahead it was a very quiet street apart from a number of steward jackets to be seen at the entrance into the car park. You immediately knew everything had kicked into place for the Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon and National Series event later in the morning. The first of the competitors for the 11am start began arriving at the corner just before 7am. What began as a trickle soon turned into a flood of vehicles and without any fuss the stewards, then all over the community directed the athletes to the parking places- a mammoth task but it created little to no traffic disruption.
It must have been the spell of great weather and the atmosphere throughout the morning was one of great anticipation as the town, both sides of the bridge, filled up. More than ever before there were great numbers on the streets creating a great buzz that has not been seen in the community for many a long day. Come 11am the sound of the claxon filled the air as the first wave of swimmers began their race. This was followed by many waves of swimmers that created a great sight while swimming the 750m over and back the width of the Shannon. The next stage was the athletes taking to their bikes for the cycle of 20km and all this in a morning that was continuing to get warmer. The final stage was the 5km run up the Rathcline Road and back in what was now searing heat. With the temperatures just three mile down the road at the Mount Dillon Weather Station reaching a record high of 31.1degrees showed the diligent work and preparation that each and every one of the athletes had put in in anticipation of the race.
The after race entertainment and food went down a treat as did the face painting for all the youngsters on the banks of the Shannon. The atmosphere around town extended late into the evening and the community had a wonderful buzz of excitement. Lanesboro and Ballyleague showed that it can entertain huge crowds that come into to the community and it shows that we have real potential for growth given the correct support.
It is a credit to Lanesboro Triathlon Club who run a very special club as can be clearly seen and also the entire community for their full commitment and support to the creation of wonderful days in Lanesboro and Ballyleague for the Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon and Kidathon.
Former local passes Away
It was with the greatest of sympathy that we learned of the sudden passing at her residence of Elizabeth Hynes, Finglas, Dublin on Monday 30th June. Betty as she was more commonly known was daughter of Tom and Lil Donoghue and she was predeceased by her sister Mary and her brother Michael as well as her parents. Betty will be fondly remembered by everyone that grew up during her time as she was a lively and happy girl who always wore a beaming smile on her face and to add to her humour was her hearty laugh that warmed the cockles of all our hearts. She will be remembered as a very sociable girl and herself and her entourage of girlfriends were always full of the joys of life. She was always great to be around as she wore life lightly on her shoulder with the unforgettable smile. Betty met and married Dublin man Martin Hynes whose family at the time owned the now Yacht Bar (Joe’s). They moved to Dublin where they lived a full life along with their son Jamie.
Our hearts were broken at the news of Betty’s passing and we extend our deepest sympathy to her husband Martin, her son Jamie, her granddaughter Ellie May, her daughter in law Amanda, her sisters Kathleen, Margaret, Bernie, Joan, and Patricia, her brother Tommy, relatives and extended family and many friends in Lanesboro and Dublin.
Lough Ree Boating & Walking Tours
Over the past number of weeks I had been speaking to John Sorohan about a new venture that he was in the process of developing. Last Saturday, while both of us were on Triathlon duty, John told me that the licencing of his boat had just come through and he was now in a position to advertise his new business. John is launching Lough Ree Boating and Walking Tours. His new boat is a silent electric boat and I believe it is an incredible boat to be in that not even the ducks on the river can hear it coming. The trips on the boat will take place north of Lanesboro Bridge and the boat has the capacity to hold 6 people. The meeting point will be at the Lough Ree Distillery office at the turn into the car park. If you would like to go on this exciting and historical trip you can contact John at 085 838 8484. We wish John every success in this his new venture and I am sure it will on to be a great success.
Like father like son
Hurling for many a long day has been alive in Lanesboro even though the club was not strong enough to form a team. There was always a few that kept the flag flying from the community and now there is a developing underage club and hopefully in the near future there will be club teams competing in leagues and championships in the county.
On Friday last in Breffni Park, Cavan Longford Under 15 hurlers took on Fermanagh in the All-Ireland Hibernia Challenge Cup Final. Playing a leading role throughout Ethan Donnellan, son of Eoin and Regina Donnellan (nee Carroll) popped up to win the day for Longford when in the last minute of the game he scored a last minute free to win the game to spark off wild celebrations. Ethan, playing wing half back, finished the game with 5 points with three of them coming from play and two from frees.
Ethan is carrying on the rich tradition of the Donnellan family as his father Eoin was, for many years, a leading hurler with Longford and Longford Slashers. Eoin is one of those players that continued to encourage hurling for his children and though he had to travel to play with Longford Slashers he ensured that Ethan had the same hurling opportunity that he had.
Best Dressed Lady
On Friday last a massive crowd visited Kilbeggan for their race meeting. As well as it being a fabulously warm day it was also Ladies Day. While the sunshine brought out the punters it also brought out a remarkable number of ladies dressed in all their summer finery. Kilbeggan is so centrally located and just off the motorway it encourages so many to travel to this very popular track. Amongst those travelling to the races was Kieran O’Gorman and his wife Emma Hussey O’Gorman expecting to pick some winners but never thinking that they would be coming back home with the title of Best Dressed Lady.
Kilbeggan racecourse sought ladies to dress in sustainable style hence the title Sustainable Style Ladies Day 2025. Emma was chosen for her creativity, elegance and commitment to conscious fashion and she was rewarded with the prize of €3,000 in cash, a two-night stay with dinner at the Annebrook House Hotel, Mullingar and a specially created bouquet from Theresa Nixon – Nixon’s Florists, Mullingar.
We congratulate Emma on her famous win. Emma is owner of her own dog grooming salon Kody’s Doghouse in Ballyleague.
Charity Walk to remember Ann Farrell
Ann Farrell came to live amongst us when she bought a house a few years ago in Cnoc na Gaoithe. She became an instant part of our community and became widely known for her tremendous spirit and friendliness. Unfortunately, Ann passed away almost 9 months ago much to our great sadness.
On Sunday 27th July a Charity Walk in memory of Ann will take place in Lanesboro. The walk while remembering Ann will be a fundraiser to raise funds for the Roscommon Mayo Hospice. The Hospice Care attended to Ann throughout her illness and they dealt with her so compassionately. For everyone that knew Ann and even those that the Roscommon Mayo Hospice has cared for a family member are invited to come along, participate and give your support by encouraging family and friends to come along and join in this very commendable fundraiser.
Contributions can be made on the day or at this GoFundMe link https://gofund.me/a98d4a7d
As we all remember, Ann loved walking and nature and her favourite walk was down to the bog walk when she could watch and appreciate all the nature around her. The walk will start from the Rathcline GAA club grounds into Clonbonny and to the bog walk. There will be an option of two walking distances of 5km or the longer loop of 11km. The walk will commence at 12noon.
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.
Win a Car or €50,000
Buy your ticket on or before this Friday next 18th July. 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.
Club Longford is delighted to see the wonderful success of four of the county teams they support and especially as they are teams coming from some years of development panels. Just last Friday the Under 15 Hurlers won the All-Ireland Hibernia Challenge Cup 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.
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 as well as backing the proposed Centre of Excellence
The draw will take place on Saturday next 19th 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.
A Goat with a story to tell
As you may already know our shop at the corner is the drop off point for almost anything lost, no matter where in the community and a regular pick up point too. On Thursday last we had the most unusual lost article notified to us when Roberto (Bob) Riozzi called into the shop to tell us that some people on boats had taken a goat from the water in the marina on Wednesday evening and to keep it safe they put it in the enclosed area of the tennis court. The goat was without identification and had no ear tags was no ordinary size goat but it was a very small goat referred to as a pigmy goat. We posted the message of the found goat on Facebook. Alan Horohoe who has a number of goats in Ballyleague was the first call but he did not have pigmy goats, so it was not his. Alan said that he would take care of the goat until the owner came forward. In the mean time we got a call from Shannonside, who seen the Facebook notice and rang for information. This was followed by two calls one from Longford and Newtowncashel from people that have pigmy goats and they would take the goat until the owner came forward. Alan Horohoe was also in touch with Longford undertaker Davy Connell who has pigmy goats and Davy is now taking care of the animal. If this was your goat you can get in touch and we will reunite you but if no owner comes forward we are assured the pigmy goat is in excellent care.
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.
Lyons Den After-School
Lyons Den After-School service at Ballyleague National School provides a well-balanced inclusive programme of activities for play, rest and recreational opportunities to support children’s health, well-being, learning and development. The service will run from Thursday 28th August 2025 to Friday 26th June 2025 from 2pm until 6.30pm. The service offers a Breakfast club, Arts and crafts, Sorts and games and Hot food. For further information please call 01 621 5790 and applications can be made at applications@kidsinc.ie
Weekly Card Game
The results of Sunday night 13th July weekly card game held in Lanesboro Parish Hall seen a three way tie for first place between Barney Kenny & Eugene Kelly, Anne Corcoran & George Farrell and Liz & Niall Hughes. The last game winners were Gerry Leavy and Kevin McDonagh. The raffle winners were Tom Rock, Anne Corcoran, Tom Nohilly and Pat Rock.
New card players will always be welcome to join in for a great night of card playing and comradery. Light refreshments as always are served.
Knock Shrine Parish Pilgrimage
You are invited to go along to the Knock Shrine Parish Pilgrimage on Friday next 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. The bus will leave Clondra at 8.45am and Killashee Church at 9a.m. at a cost of €15.
For bookings and further information you are asked to ring, text, WhatsApp 086 0714582 or call into the sacristy after Mass.
€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 of the full €15,000 or share in the money.
Last week the draw took placed in O’Brien’s on Tuesday 8th July and there was no winner of the draw and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw on 15th July. The numbers drawn were 13, 20, 28 and 29. The winner of the €50 prize was Jay Flynn, c/o XLNTEE and the three €20 winners were Lisa Mullane, Kilrooskey, c/o Jean Fallon, Seamus Reilly c/o Lanesboro Tourism co-op and Ann McCarthy c/o Mags. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 15th 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.
Roscommon play New York in 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 supporters and a golden opportunity for people to avail of group rates for a special trip to the Big Apple.
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 received provisional prices for the trip from a travel agent and the prices are coming in at approximately €1400 per person sharing. Other prices for more than two in a room will also be available to those requiring same. The price will include flights, centrally located hotel and transfers from and to the airport. Match tickets are not included. Booking this special trip 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 number of people that are intending to go. If you are considering travelling or proposing 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.
Birth
There was great excitement in Clonfower recently with the joyful news that Laura (née Peters) and Ciarán Crowe, Bray, Co. Wicklow, welcomed a beautiful baby boy into their family on 28th June. Little Mikey Stephen Patrick Crowe, who was born at Holles Street, is the first grandchild for Steve and Marie Peters, Clonfower, and the first great-grandchild for Josie O’Sullivan of Lehery. Family and friends gathered to celebrate the new arrival during baby Mikey’s first visit to Lanesboro, offering the warmest congratulations to the proud parents and to the grandparents and wishing the family a lifetime of good health and happiness.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 7th July for a jackpot of €642. The winner of the draw was Kathleen and Teresa Finnegan, The Green who were the winner of the €642. 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.
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 week 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.
Roscommon Women’s Network
You are invited to go along to enjoy the Athleague Camino 6km loop walk and optional Dip in the River Suck on Sunday 20th July, start / end at the Riverside Centre in Athleague. Register to book your place at www.cycleup.ie Please support this fundraiser for Roscommon Women’s Network CycleUp Textiles.
MSc in AgInnovation.
The University of Galway is offering a unique, one-year Master’s (Level 9) for people with fresh ideas to transform rural Ireland. Open to all ages – no formal education required. Format: 2 hours/week online (Zoom) and one Saturday/month on campus. Funding: 100% (unemployed) or 90% (employed) via Springboard. The deadline for application is 31st July at 5pm. There are 30 places available. To apply visit www.universityofgalway.ie and search for “Springboard”, then select MSc AgInnovation and complete registration. Those in Springboard and UCG are looking forward to receiving your application
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).
Environmental Workers required
Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op is looking for Environmental workers 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.
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
On Friday next 18th July there will be a Bodhrán Workshop for 7-12year olds.
On Tuesday 29th July there will be a Tote Bag Design for 6+years
Celebrating Lanesboro’s Literary Links
The library welcomes back two of Lanesboro’s literary giants Colin Carberry and Jack Harte to Lanesboro Library on Wednesday week 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.
Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Join the local Fire Service
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
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
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 11:30 am 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.
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 Shrine will take place on Sunday 7th September, 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 this 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 9a.m. at a cost of €15.
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 1st August
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.ie
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Elphin and Achonry Diocesan Pilgrimage To Knock Shrine will take place on Sunday, 17th August 2025. There will also be a Family Day on the same date offering various activities for families with children of all ages. For more details visit https://www.knockshrine.ie/family-day-at-knock-shrine/
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
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.
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.