Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Festival Folk on Thursday
This year Festival Folk in Roscommon promises to be another resounding success and will prove once again to be a fabulous support to Roscommon Cancer Support. Last year the support from our local community was excellent and we are confident with the outstanding line-up of artists that it will be even greater this year.
This year, Roscommon Cancer Support group, have put together another fantastic line up to perform at the Abbey Hotel on this Thursday] 11th December at 8pm. Featuring will be national and international artists, Mike Hanrahan originally with Stockton’s Wing, the world renown comedian Pat Shortt, the legendary Mary Coughlan and singer and songwriter Ultan Conlon along with the Roscommon Men’s Choir, Michael Banahan, Bill Shanley, Vincent Pierce and the Shannon Academy School of Dance. The compere will be Deirdre Kelly. Tickets, priced at €25 are available from the Abbey Hotel (09066 26240), Vita House (090966 25898) or online at Eventbrite.
Lanesboro Fire and Rescue Services Open Day
TheLanesboro Fire and Rescue Service Open Day was held on Saturday last despite the very inclement weather. Despite the conditions of the day more than 100 kids went and met Santa Claus. In total it was estimated that there was in excess of 250 people in attendance where they were all educated in the workings of the fire service and they kids had many tasks creating a really good feel good factor in the company of our local Fire and rescue team. Well done to all the Lanesboro team and also to all the parents/guardians and children for attending.
How vital is our Fire Service team
Over the past few weeks with tragic and critical accidents occurring both north and south of the border we have seen the essential and critical need of first responders and the wonderful and vital work that they do.
Being first on the scene, the training that the Fire Brigade members receive, teaches them to respond and deal with the tragedies unfolding as well as stabilising those that are in need of help until the medical services arrive.
The training the fire service team receives covers a wide range of emergencies, including fires, road traffic collisions, floods, and incidents involving hazardous materials. They are also involved in rescue operations, such as water rescue, general rescue, and extrication from vehicles. Beyond emergencies, fire services work in prevention, community education, and can act as first responders for medical situations.
Long gone are the days of just putting out fires and the training received shows that the training is for all eventualities.
Working on the local fire brigade service is not just something taken lightly by the local team; it is a commitment by all its members to our local community and they give up their valuable time to be at the ready to help any one of us in our hour of need. The local team is one of remarkable comradery with people from all walks of life giving of their time for us in their catchment area.
At present there are a few vacancies for men or women at the Lanesboro Fire Service and if you feel you would like to be part of this remarkable team you should apply at www.hrrecruitment@longfordcoco.ie
There are a few requirements in relation to response time but it should be no problem for those in the Lanesboro, Ballyleague, east Killashee and Derryhaun, Cloontagh area. For the younger generation there is a great trend for them to be in the gym and this physical fitness regime makes them ideal candidates to become members of the fire service.
Full and intensive training will be given to the successful applicants and even though this is a part-time job the remuneration is excellent with excellent opportunities for advancement to other opportunities.
Meals on Wheels collections Saturday and Sunday
Longford Social Services committee will hold their annual Church Gate Collection at Masses in Lanesboro on Saturday 13th and Saturday 14th December. This invaluable service is ran county wide from Longford by Longford Social Services. This service is vital to so many people and people in our community avail of this great service. The Church Gate collection is vital to maintain the service and your extreme generosity of past years is once again called upon.
If you are not in a position to attend Mass on either day you can leave your donations into O’Brien’s shop. Thanking you in advance
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the late Mary Cribbin, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, her husband Louis, her children Kevin, Deirdre, Gráinne and Mark who passed away on Monday 1st December. Mary is formerly Mary Hughes from Carrowcrin, Kilrooskey and she is also sadly mourned by her sisters Margaret (Carrowcrin) and Helen (Lecarrow), her brothers Michael (Kilteevan) and Henry (Carrowcrin) and uncle Phonsie O’Connor (Boyle), relatives and friends.
Her remains were laid to rest in St. Joseph’s cemetery, Castlerea on Friday following her Funeral Mass.
Ballyleague Christmas Lights Church Gate
The Ballyleague Christmas Lights committee is holding its church gate collection at Ballyleague Church on Sunday 21st December. Your generosity towards the lighting will be greatly appreciated by a committee that work so hard in preparing Ballyleague for a brighter Christmas.
Christmas Concert in St. Mary’s
You are all invited to an evening of Christmas Songs and Carols in St. Mary’s Church, Lanesboro on Sunday evening next 14th December with a start time of 7pm. This is a yearly event and every year has been more outstanding than the previous year and we are certain that the songs and carols on Sunday evening will too be of the highest quality. This year the concert will be in aid of Animal Welfare and donations can be made at the door.
Christmas Raffle
Lanesboro Primary School will hold a Christmas raffle to aid bolster the school funds. Lines are just €2 each and cards are available at all local businesses. Your support will be greatly appreciated.
St. Vincent de Paul Appeal
“The Wonder of Christmas” is the theme for the 2025 SVP Christmas Appeal. Too many families – young and old, ‘wonder’ does not mean excitement or happiness, it starts a sad question – ‘I wonder will I be able to feed my family at Christmas or indeed throughout the year’. So many households are struggling to meet their daily needs – from families with young children to people living alone. From your donations, no matter how small, the local branch of SVP will assist local families. Envelopes can be obtained from the church porch or from O’Brien’s and donations can either be left in with your weekly offerings, left into Mairéad in the presbytery or into Joe & Martina O’Brien, Corner Shop. All donations, no matter how small, will be gratefully received. Thanking you for your continued support
Sympathy
It was with great sadness we learned of the sudden death of former Ballincurry, Kilrooskey resident Desmond Gibbons on Sunday 29th November. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Desmond’s sisters and brothers Mary, Josephine, Eileen, Seamus, Gerry, Pauline and Michael. Desmond was laid to rest in Kilgefin Cemetery following his Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh on Thursday last 4th December.
35th Annual MS Christmas Day Run
It’s that time again! The 35th Annual MS Christmas Day Run is just around the corner, and we’re excited to have you join us for this festive and meaningful event.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Event Details: Christmas Day
Walkers Start Time: 10:00 AM from the Hall in Newtowncashel
Runners Start Time: 11:00 AM from the Hall in Newtowncashel
Route: Walk or run from Newtowncashel to Lanesborough
How to Participate:
If you’re joining us in person, lace up those running shoes, get ready to walk or run, and meet us at the starting point in Newtowncashel.
If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry! You can still participate virtually. Simply complete your own walk or run, share your photos with the organizing committee, and donate via the provided GoFundMe link.
T-Shirts:
T-shirts for all participants have been generously sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors. Thank you, Peter and David Hanley and staff, for the support!
To claim your event T-shirt, please make a donation via the GoFundMe link and participate on Christmas Day.
Refreshments:
After the run/walk, we’ll be serving refreshments for all participants and their families in St. Mary’s Hall, Lanesborough. Come enjoy some festive treats and celebrate the success of the day with us!
Support the Cause:
All funds raised will go to the Longford Branch of Multiple Sclerosis. Your participation and donations make a real difference to those living with MS.
Thank you for your continued support over the years. We look forward to seeing you there—whether in person or virtually—as we come together to support a great cause this Christmas!
Sponsorship Cards:
Sponsorship cards will be available in O’Brien’s
Comment on RTÉ/GAA reports
Last Tuesday night, RTÉ’s Prime Time reported about congestion on the M50 and the rapid growth in numbers travelling from the countryside to work in Dublin. Transport Infrastructure Ireland, however, asserted that there was no way of widening the motorway or creating a double decker road and that commuters would just have to put up with this congestion for many years to come.
On Thursday, the GAA’s National Demographics Committee Report confirmed the rapid demise of rural clubs and an avalanche of people migrating to bigger towns and cities. The GAA’s own website had already documented the surge in the volume of young male footballers transferring abroad since the beginning of the year.
Community spirit is at the heart of who we are. Growing older, we justifiably anticipate that our offspring will continue this collective vibrancy alongside a stream of newcomers with young families. Unfortunately, we now have even less high-value employment to retain our youth nor to entice others who have expressed a strong wish to reside with us.
Since the 1950’s, Lanesboro and Ballyleague were blessed with the ESB and Bord na Mona semi-state companies making our community what it is today and facilitating the education of our youth to the highest standards imaginable. But that all changed in 2019 with the premature closure of the power-station and the end of the harvesting of our surrounding bogs without viable employment alternatives.
From both reports last week, my solution may seem simplistic, but I believe that it is as obvious as the River Shannon passing through our village. Economic decentralisation to the Midlands region is urgently needed in the National Plan in order to both alleviate traffic congestion and halt rural decline. This would take vehicles off the M50 and minimise the numbers having to drive to Dublin for employment on a daily basis.
Lanesboro still retains the National Grid, a significant infrastructure which should not be undervalued and an opportunity that should not be underestimated. The semi-state bodies likewise own and have access to much of the land in our vicinity. We as voters, and the GAA as the largest national sporting body, should be speaking very loudly – if not shouting from the rooftops – to decision-makers in government with the power to use these State resources and commercially resuscitate the Forgotten Heartlands.
As simplistic as it may seem, it is still not too late to create sustainable well-paying employment for the wider hinterland of counties Longford and Roscommon in the same manner that ESB and Bord na Mona so successfully did in the past. That is, if there is genuinely a will to do so.
Weekly Card Game
The results of the weekly Sunday night card game that took place on Sunday night last 7th December in Lanesboro Parish Hall and the winners were 1st Barney Kenny and Eugene Kelly. In joint 2nd were Petey Donlon & Brendan Hanley and Anne Corcoran & Kay Featherstone. The last game winners were Niall and Liz Hughes. The raffle winners were Tom Nohilly, Petey Donlon, Harry Skelly and Tom Mulvihill. New card players will always be welcome to join in for a great night of card playing and friendliness. Light refreshments as always are served.
Thank You
The Lanesborough Hall committee would like to extend their thanks to everyone who helped make their fair an outstanding success. To all the stall holders and everyone who supported them, the Tidy Towns group and the hall hamper draw with purchases. Thank you to Santa & Mrs Claus, Francis Clyne, Tom Gill, Joe O Brien, Tom Nohilly, Mark Casey, Brigid Mullooly and those who helped clean up afterwards. Happy Christmas everyone.
St. John’s Church December Services
The December schedule for the St. John’s (Lanesboro) and St. Coman’s (Roscommon) congregation for the month of December is as follows:
Sunday next 14th December Lanesborough Christmas Carol Service at11.30am. Sunday, 14th December in St Coman’s Church, Roscommon: An Cor Coman at 6pm. On Friday 19th December in Lanesborough – Nativity & Evening Prayer Service at 7.30pm. Sunday 21st December in Roscommon, Morning Prayer Service 11.30am. On Thursday 25th December in Roscommon; Christmas Day Service, at11.30am. On Sunday 28th December in Lanesboro, Holy Communion Service at 11.30am.
Lanesboro man won an All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Medal
Football has always been the big game in County Longford ever since the GAA was founded in 1884. The parish of Rathcline was to the fore from the very beginning. Indeed, Rathcline Honest John Martin’s contested the first ever Longford Senior Football Final in 1890, losing narrowly to Colmcille. Strong and all as the game is in Longford, the nearest the county team ever got to a senior All-Ireland was in 1968, when they won the Leinster Championship for the one and only time, losing to Kerry by two points in the semi-final. Just one Longford man holds an All-Ireland Senior Football medal. Tommy Banks from Dublin St in Longford played at left full forward on the Dublin team that won the 1942 All Ireland.
What a surprise it is then to learn that a Longford man did win an All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship medal. That man was Tom Belton from the townsland of Rathcline, and he played for the Dublin team that won the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final of 1889. The dramatic story of Tom Belton’s success, and his death less than ten years later, is told in the recently launched 2026 edition of Teathbha, the Longford Historical Society’s annual journal. The story was researched and written by Seán Ó Súillebhain, the author of Longford’s Republican Story. Copies of Teathbha 2026 can be got in O’Brien’s, Lanesboro.
€15,000 can be yours
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning. For the past number of months the jackpot has reached it upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers it continues to be available for the person with the correct numbers. The draw for this week will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 9th December, 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 2nd December and again there was no winner of the draw and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw on 9th December. The numbers drawn were 6, 8, 13, and 27. The winner of the €50 prize were The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 9th December and every Tuesday morning. 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.
Christmas arrangements: On Tuesday 23rd December the draw will be boosted with the runner up prizes all doubling and the prize structure will be 1 x €100, and 3 x €50 prizes. There will be no draw on Tuesday 30th December and the draw will resume back on Tuesday 6th January.
The Tidy Towns committee is extremely grateful to everyone that continues to buy tickets and they would like to wish everyone the happiest of Christmas times and they wish you a happy, successful and healthy 2026.
Thank You: Lanesboro Tidy Towns committee would like to thank very sincerely everyone that supported the lottery draw on Sunday last at the Lanesboro Hall committee’s Christmas Fair on Sunday last.
Shannon Gael AGM deferred
It was unfortunate but the rescheduled AGM was fixed for the same night as the Lanesboro Community College and it had to be cancelled again. With the Christmas time speeding in on us it has been decided to put the AGM back until the New Year with the new date set for Thursday 15th January in the Clonbonny clubhouse with a start time of 8.30pm.
What will be celebrated is a fabulously successful 2025 on the playing pitch for the young underage players of the club.
Everyone is invited to come along to Clonbonny on Thursday 15th January and join with the club in celebrating a great and electing a new committee for the coming year. We hope there will be a big attendance to acknowledge the wonderful work done by the executive, the coaches and the young players. The future is bright and your support, ideas on further club development will further enhance the club. Please do come along as everyone is welcome.
Search for a Star returns
Rathcline GAA Search for a Star will return to the stage at Lanesboro Parish Hall on Saturday next 13th December at 8pm. There has been a tremendous response to the call for participants and rehearsals have been on-going for the past number of weeks. There is no doubt that you will be royally entertained with some very special performances. Each year an amazing character made for the stage stands out for their entertainment value and we are wondering who will steal the limelight on Sunday night.
Don’t be late in seeking out their tickets as there are only a limited number. Tickets are available from O’Brien’s for what is sure to be another magnificent night of fun and laughter.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 1st December for a prize of €670. The winning ticket was in the name of Niall Keane, Barnacor who was the recipient of the €670 cheque. As usual the winning cheque will be left in O’Brien’s for collection.
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 as it is keeping the winning money at a high and exciting level every week – thank you.
Simon Casey plays in St. Brigid’s Church on Sunday
A fundraiser for St. Brigid’s Church parish Funds, Ardagh, will take place in St. Brigid’s Church on Sunday 14th December. Christmas Time with leading vocalist Simon Casey will offer an evening of Christmas cheer with songs of hope and inspiration. Tickets are available in O’Brien’s Lanesboro or you can pay by REVOLUT to Betty 086 3855 424.
Sensory Santa is for Everyone!
Skip the noise and the long lines for Santa this year. The Access For All Sensory Santa experience is designed to be calm, quiet, and wonderfully slow-paced and a chance to forget the usual holiday rush!
Whether you have sensory needs, a shy child, a busy toddler, or just prefer a relaxed atmosphere, this is your perfect photo opportunity. Everyone deserves a stress-free Santa visit and this is the ideal opportunity locally
Book your quiet moment today at the Access For All as there are limited slots available for a magical visit to Santa that will take place on Saturday 20th December from 10am to 3.50pm.
When you book you secure your 10 minute slot with Santa for up to 3 children. Each child will receive a gift and you are welcome to take as many pictures as you like. The cost of the visit to Santa is just €5 per child
Remembrance Mass
A mass for deceased Roscommon County Council staff & members has been arranged for this Wednesday 10th December at 6.00 p.m. in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. All welcome. Refreshments will be served in the Canteen, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon after mass.
Fundraising Raffle
The Ballyleague National School Parents Association is holding a Fundraising Raffle and they are encouraging everyone to support their raffle. The prize structure is 1st €1000 voucher for Wildlands, Galway or the cash equivalent, 2nd A Galaxy tablet donated by The Lunch Bag, 3rd €200 donated by Duggan’s Bus Hire and Midlands Sports Surfaces, 4th 3 months membership at Roscommon Leisure Centre, 5th €100 Abbey Hotel Roscommon Voucher donated by Gary’s Gardening and 6th Electric Heater donated by Keogh Electrical Ltd. Tickets are priced at 1 – €10; 3 – €25; 8 – €50. The draw will take place on Thursday 18th December. You can buy tickets online https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/BallyleagueNSFundraiser
Longford County Choir
Longford County Choir with soloist Maria Matthews will hold their annual Christmas Celebration concert in St. Mel’s Cathedral on Sunday 21st December starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at €15. Children under 16 accompanied by two paying adults are free. Tickets are available in Denniston’s, the Presbytery and Farrell Stationery.
ICA Guild news
The last meeting before Christmas takes place this Wednesday 10th December. It is planned to have a few Christmas nibbles and to do secret Santa. Pictures from the meeting and the evening festivities will be up on the guilds Facebook and Instagram pages.
On Wednesday the ladies from Legan ICA will host their annual flower evening in Aurora Hall with a demonstration from Mary Holmes, there will also be a cake sale and a festive supper so don’t miss out on a lovely evening to get you in the festive spirit.
The last lotto draw before Christmas takes place in Kenagh on Wednesday 17th December for a jackpot of €1100. There will be a few extra prizes so make sure to get you tickets in.
Samaritan Christmas Concert
The 35th Annual Samaritan Christmas Concert takes place on this Thursday 11th December in SS Peter and Paul’s Church, Athlone, at 8pm. The concert will feature the Army Band of the 2nd Brigade, Conductor Capt. William Chester, Tenor Paul Linehan, Athlone A Cappella Choir, Athlone Pipe Band and the compere will be Joe McCarrick. Tickets are priced €20 and available at www.athloneprinting.com The Samaritans are available 24hrs on Freecall 116 123 for anyone who is lonely/troubled/needing to talk
Volunteer with SVP
Do you think that you can find the time to do some voluntary work for St Vincent de Paul? If you would like to assist, you should contact the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at 1800 677 777.
Ballyboro remembers Jeaff
We all remember the shock we felt when we learned of our recently and dearly departed friend Jeaffrey McGann. Jeaff was an avid five-a-side player right up to his passing and in his honour our local soccer club Ballyboro is inviting everyone to the Astro turf pitch at Lanesboro Community College to a five-a-side tournament on Saturday 27th December. The tournament will run from 12 noon until 5pm. The cost is €20 per player (over 18 only) and the proceeds will be presented to the Irish Heart Foundation.
Registration deadline is Wednesday 17th December. Players will be allocated to teams after
the registration deadline. To register and express your intent to compete you are asked to contact David Gilmore by WhatsApp 085 704 5505.
Let’s support Jeaff’s memory in great numbers and great style.
Music Lessons
If you would like lessons in the Banjo, Fiddle, Tin Whistle, where beginners and improvers are welcome in Roscommon Town you should contact 0892769614 for all information. Classes can be 1 to 1 or small groups. The rates are quite reasonable.
Pilates with Regina
Mat Pilates classes (with Regina) takes place every Thursday evening at St. Mary’s Hall Lanesboro 7.30pm The classes incorporating balance, resistance, and weight bearing exercises. For further information call Regina at 087 2485822.
Line Dance Classes
Beginners Line Dance Classes comes to the Temperance Hall Longford (N39 R9X8) every Monday night at 7.30pm. This popular dance continues to grow rapidly countrywide and this is you opportunity to learn the steps and join in at all the dances and functions. The tutor is Christopher Beirne and if you require further information please call 086 847 4744
Church Gate Collection
The annual St. Vincent de Paul church gate collection will take place in Ballyleague on Sunday week 14th December before 11.30am Mass while the Strokestown St. Vincent de Paul members will be holding Church Gate collections at Ballagh and Curraghroe churches, this weekend, 6th/7th December. Your continuous and most generous support will be greatly appreciated.
Book continues to sell very well
Back at the beginning of August Dan Magan launched his book of poetry Songs of the Sesh. Last weekend just 12 weeks later Dan has just published his new book Odyssey –Summary to Skitzpathic Diaries. This is a very frank story by this young 31 year who said “went all the way on every drug, and I saw the light”. The book is on sale in O’Brien’s priced €20 and it has proved to be a very popular book.
Lanesboro Library
1-to-1 Digital Skills Classes
We are delighted to announce that Lanesboro Library will host 1-to-1 Tutor Led Digital Skills classes every Wednesday from 10am to 12.30pm. Classes are 30 minutes each. Please contact the library to book your place. Classes are running through until January 21st.
My Open Library
My Open Library gives patrons extended, staff-free access to the library from 8am to 10pm, 365 days a year using their library card.
Join us on the night to learn how the system works, see a demonstration, and sign up for extended access. All are welcome!
Whether you want to use the library to study after hours, pick up a book on the way home from work or get out of the house with your little ones on a rainy day, My Open Library can provide you the access you need!
Board Game Battles
Saturdays from 10.30am-12.00pm, Lanesboro Library will host a drop-in session where you can play board games and challenge your friends! Parental supervision is required.
To keep an eye on upcoming events, you can visit the library or online on longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
All Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie or 0433321291
Roscommon Drama Festival
The full programme has been drawn up for the very successful Roscommon Drama Festival will take place in the Arts Centre, Roscommon from Friday 6th to Saturday 14th March.
Once again the premier Festival of amateur drama will play host to many of the leading groups in the country as they present what can only be described as a “wonderful feast of entertainment.”
The Festival kicks off on Friday 6th with Ballyturk written by Enda Walsh. This will be performed by Kilmeen Drama Group. Saturday night 7th sees New Heritage Theatre Group on stage with Deirdre Kinehan’s play Outrage described as a “theatrical hurricane of emotion, empathy, action and truth.
On Sunday 8th The Nenagh Players present their interpretation of The Salvage Shop by Jim Nolan, “a compelling tale of familial recrimination, regret and rebirth” This is followed on Monday 9th with Dunmore Amateur Dramatic Society’s production of An Enemy of the People by Henrik Ibsen (a version by Rebecca Lenkiewicz).
On Tuesday 10th we see Upstage Players from Claremorris take to the stage with the John B Keane classic The Year of the Hiker while on Wednesday 11th Corofin Dramatic Society will entertain us with Wit written by Margaret Edson. This has been described as a play in which ‘you will feel both enlightened and in a strange way, enormously comforted”
On Thursday 12th Glenamaddy Players introduce us to Chapatti by Christian O’Reilly This poignant and extremely funny play ‘shows us that love and romance can happen again after many years”.
Kilmuckridge Drama Group will present The Communication Cord by Brian Friel on Friday 13th and the Festival will draw to a close on Saturday 14th with the John B Keane play Sive. This will feature Dalkey Players on the final and awards ceremony night with the play commencing at 7.30pm.
The adjudicator for the Festival is Paula Dempsey who is very well known and respected in Irish drama circles.
There is now a wonderful opportunity to surprise the theatre goer amongst you this Christmas morning by buying tickets for this exciting Drama Festival.
Booking can be made at Roscommon Arts Centre at 090 662 5824 or online at www.roscommonartscentre.ie
Tickets cost €20 nightly with a five night ticket at €90 and a season ticket at €135.
Seeking Safety
Seeking Safety is a free coping skills program for women affected by trauma, mental health and /or addiction. Learn new ways to cope safely with your own triggers, impulses and symptoms and gain a more compassionate understanding of yourself and “take back your power from the impacts of trauma, mental health and/or addiction. The program is funded by the HSE and is being delivered in Castlerea, Boyle and Roscommon town. For more information please contact Lorraine in complete confidence. 094 96 21690 or email lcampbell@rwn.ie
Grinds in German and French
If you are preparing for your leaving or Junior Certificate exams, at any level, there is no better time to get that extra bit of help in making the subjects easier. If this is of interest to your students then you should make contact at 089 488 5679.
New York game fixed for Sunday 12th April
There has been a wonderful response shown by so many people expressing their interested in taking advantage of the Roscommon trip to New York next April. Last week the Connaught Fixtures for 2026 were announced and New York will host Roscommon in Gaelic Park on Sunday 12th April at 3pm (8pm Irish time)
It is five years ago since Roscommon played New York and the memories of that wonderful week in the Big Apple are still remembered and talked about.
This is a golden opportunity to join with the big numbers from the St. Faithleach’s club and avail of a fabulous few days in the city that never sleeps. It was hoped that the game would be on Easter Sunday but alas it is the Sunday afterwards 12th April.
Nonetheless the flights will 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 and you have to too them off the Connaught GAA website. Booking this special trip would involve paying a deposit directly to the travel agent and the remainder closer to the flight date.
The club is still looking for approximate number of people that are intending to go. If you are considering travelling or intend going you are asked to contact Jimmy Mangan on 086 8177915 or Michael Cleary on 087 2238293 with your name and the names of your intended travellers. More details will become available when the game date is confirmed.
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
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.
Outstanding Local Health Service
Local Health Services are available at Roscommon University Hospital. Roscommon Hospital is providing an outstanding service for the entire area with short waiting times and excellent care offered. 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.
Support Group
Relatives and friends of anyone who has an alcoholic problem 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
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are still 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.
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.
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 2nd January.
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
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland: The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is open six days a week Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. The society provides an opportunity for all of us to stand together and support people with dementia. Their phone number is 1800 341 341 and their website is www.alzheimer.ie
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Ballyleague Christmas Lights: Sunday week 21st December the Ballyleague Christmas Lights committee will be holding its annual church gate collection to aid in defraying the cost of lighting up Ballyleague for Christmas and the New Year. Your generous support will be greatly appreciated.
Church cleaning & putting up the crib: It is intended to put up the crib in Ballyleague church on Friday 19th at 3pm. Cleaning of the church will also take place on the same evening at 6pm. It would be great if as many as possible could come along to lend a hand.
Church Gate collection: Epilepsy Ireland will hold its annual church gate collection at Ballagh and Curraghroe churches next weekend 13th and 14th December. Your support will be appreciated.
Church Gate Collection: The annual St. Vincent de Paul church gate collection will take place in Ballyleague on Sunday 14th December before 11.30am Mass. The Strokestown St. Vincent de Paul members will be holding Church Gate collections at Ballagh and Curraghroe churches on the 6th/7th December. Your on-going support will be greatly appreciated.
Ballyleague Church Rota: Copies of the updated rota for Ballyleague Church are available in the church porch.
KPPC Resolution: Parishioners are reminded that a decade of the Rosary will be recited before all Masses in all three churches of our parish at weekends and everyone is asked to be in the church 20 minutes before mass times.
Newsletter inclusion: Any items you want included in the newsletter you must email the contents to kilgefinparish21@gmail.com on or before the Wednesday of that week.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Club AGM: St. Faithleachs GAA Club AGM takes place on Saturday week 29th November in the clubhouse at 7pm; all members are invited to attend.
New York 2026:
St. Faithleachs GAA Club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in 2026 and to date there has been a great interest shown in the trip. The game will take place on Sunday, April 12th April. Flights will be most 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 M0’angan on 0868177915 or Michael Cleary on 0872238293 with names of intended travellers. More details will be available when the game date is confirmed.
Lottery:. Tickets on sale at the usual local outlets or online https://member.clubspot.app/club/st-faithleachs-gaa/fundraisers
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.