Apologies for the late delivery of the notes due to ongoing technical issues. Half way there on the repairs. Thank you, Joe
Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
Renowned for her open house policy and the warmest of welcomes to all comers the gap that the passing of Frances Kilcoyne leaves will be an emptiness that will be felt for a long time to come. Frances passed away on Wednesday 25th February in the care of the staff of the Mater Hospital, Dublin.
Born and reared in Corrigeen Frances Kilcoyne, nee Hanley travelled to England as a young lady. There she met a man from Achill Island, Co. Mayo and their friendship led to marriage 52 years and a return back to her native parish where Pat got a job with Bord na Mona and they built their forever family home in Barnacor next door to her late brothers Ned’s home. Frances’s home was the real rambling house where everyone was welcomed and never let away without a cup of tea and a long chat. Her spirit was of a jovial and light hearted lady with a natural smile that immediately drew you towards her. Frances had a great love of style, and she loved dressing up – she had the ultimate and natural sparkle as was her personality and was a lady that lived life to the fullest. She had a great dedication to Pat and her family and basked in the many successes that each of them achieved and this dedication and love continued to flow through to her 17 grandchildren. While a very house proud lady and wonderful and creative at baking she also loved to tender her garden at every opportunity.
Frances was predeceased by her parents Edward and Mary, her brothers Ned, Mike, Paddy (only recently in England) and Gerry, her sisters Mary and Margie and her great grandson Fionn. She was from one of the oldest and most respected families in our parish and this was clear to be seen at the attendance at the reposing of her remains in Farrell’s Funeral Home on Friday and again at her Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s church on Saturday. Frances was laid to rest afterwards in Clonbonny Cemetery. To her husband Pat, her sons David and Johnny, her daughters Theresa, Sharon, Caroline and Lynda, her brothers Jimmy and Johnny, her sisters Kathy and Annie, her grandchildren, great granddaughter Ríadh, relatives and friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
The Sailor’s Dream
The Sailor’s Dream is the of the current play written by Jack Harte and it will be staged in the Backstage Theatre in Longford Town on this Thursday 4th March. Go along and support Jack and his cast of actors who have already received many accolades.
As you most likely know Jack, although born in Co. Sligo, is long considered a local man who arrived in Lanesboro in the early days of Bord na Mona and the Green housing estate with his father John and mother Lollie. There is a wonderful affinity towards the Harte family by the people of the community and a deep appreciation of their involvement in the community that became their new home town.
St. Patrick’s Day Launch on Friday
The launch night for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Friday night next 6th March at 9:00pm in Adie’s Bar and Restaurant. The committee would like to invite everyone to this wonderful St. Patrick’s Day Parade launch. This is a great community event and your attendance at the launch would be greatly appreciated. Finger food will be served on the night. Let’s all turn up for what is the first part of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and celebrations and create a wonderful atmosphere for what is only a further 11 days away
Former Neighbours meet
Back in 1970 Richard Farrelly his late wife Gerri (2013) and family were residents of 50 the Green and their next door neighbours in 51 were the late Paddy (2014) and his wife Olive (2012) Keaveney and their family. In 1970 the Farrelly’s moved back to their native county Meath and the Keaveney family moved to Elphin in Roscommon in the Spring of 1967.
Cecil Keaveney is a regular visitor to Lanesboro and our shop where we always have great chats. Richard Farrelly is also a very regular visitor to Lanesboro where he still has friends from his days working with BnM and he also puts his boat on the Shannon during the summer.
On Wednesday last Cecil called to the shop for his regular chat and while we were shooting the breeze of old stories and memories I happened to ask him if he recognised the man that walked into the shop. “The face is familiar but I cannot put a name on him” was his response. Who was it only the bould Richard Farrelly who was passing through the town to Roscommon. The conversation really ignited and there was many a memory and stories shared some that created a great deal of laughter.
So many like the pair of lads return to visit our community from time to time and how wonderful it would be if it could be arranged for a particular day every year that we had a ‘Welcome Back Day’ for the huge number of people that for a time in their lives called our community their home and their workplace. This is something that Harry Hennessy has been talking about each and every time he makes his regular visits. It would be fabulous to have those in the community and surrounding communities that spent time here working with BnM and ESB to be in the town for a day to remember their co-workers and locals and share the memories with the workers and their families.
Picture attached shows Richie, Cecil and myself.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Veronica and Ownie Farrell, and their family, Killavacken, Curraghroe, on the death of Veronica’s father Joe Naughton, Ballinlass, Mountbellew, Co. Galway who passed away on Wednesday 25th February.
Social Dance Classes
Now is the golden opportunity to spend a few weeks learning the many varieties of Social Dancing and on our doorstep? By Easter Sunday 5th April you can have mastered the step of the Jive, Waltz, Quickstep, Line Dance and a few surprises for adult beginners (no partners required) commencing in St. Faithleach’s Clubhouse.
The first night of the classes will be this Wednesday 4th March is free! Classes will continue on Monday nights, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th March. All classes will start at 8pm t and continue until 9.30pm. The fee of €35 is required for the four nights. Enquiries to Mary at 0872331227
Time to prepare for St. Patrick’s Day Parade
We are just over five short weeks away from the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ballyleague and Lanesboro. For us in the community and the surrounding parishes this is a wonderful occasion with so many clubs, associations, local groups and individuals getting into the spirit of the occasion. There are many well thought out floats and the creativity and ingenuity of people is what brings thousands to the streets every St. Patrick’s Day.
This year we are again hoping for a huge parade with more participating floats making the parade the best in the midlands area.
St. Patrick’s Day is a day of celebrations celebrating who we are and the parade is a sense of great pride for all of us. It is a wonderful opportunity to get out and celebrate with our community and neighbouring parishes our national heritage.
Photos from the 50’s
I have been asked to ask people of the parish or former parishioner families that had an old connection to the Rathcline GAA club to search their old photographs and see if they have any photographs of team and successes from the 1950’s.
If you have, can you leave what you have into the shop for copying and collection or scan and send it to me at joeaobrien@outlook.com
Irish Conversation Group
An enthusiastic group to encourage the speaking of Irish has begun in Lanesboro Library and will continue every Thursday from 5pm to 5.45pm. Everyone with an interest in speaking Irish are invited to attend and even those with an interest but have not the language, yet, are invited to attend.
World Day of Prayer
The World Day of Prayer will be celebrated, this year, on Friday next 6th March with the theme “I will give you rest: Come” and the service is prepared by the Nigerian WPD committee.
Locally the service will take place in St. Mary’s church, Lanesboro at 7.30pm. All are welcome.
St Christopher’s Fund Raiser
A coffee morning in aid of St Christopher’s will be held in St Mary’s Parish Hall on Sunday 15th March after 11am Mass. Numerous spot prizes to be won. Your support will be greatly appreciated.
Community Games 2026 update
Registration: thanks to all who registered for the Lanesboro Community Games 2026. It was great to see some new faces at the registration evening last week, anyone still to register, please contact Serena on 0879176525
Chess: The three Lanesboro chess teams have been busy over the past few weeks, practicing and competing. Our U11 team has reached the county final, we wish them the very best of luck. Unfortunately, our U13 and U16 teams were beaten after some brilliant performances. Well done to all the players, we are very proud of your efforts and of the way you represented Lanesboro. We hope to see you all back at the chess boards again soon!
Swimming – Longford competition will take place on Saturday 14th March in Longford swimming pool- Please contact Serena on 0879176525 to enter the swimming competition, Please note children need to be at a competitive swimming level to enter.
Art & Handwriting – Lanesboro competition will take place in St Mary’s Hall on Sunday 29th March at 2pm
Track and Field – Lanesboro will run the track and field competition in Clonbonny on Sunday 10th May.
Other upcoming Community Games competitions include GAA, Outdoor Soccer, Choir and Dance
All Community Games events are listed on the national website. https://www.cairncommunitygames.ie/events
It would be great to have a good Lanesboro representation in many of the Community Games events in 2026
Great support for Kieran’s book of poetry
Kieran Feeney must be feeling very proud of the reaction to his first book of poetry –Opaque that he launched recently. The feedback to the book is marvellous and it is very pleasing to see very strong sales.
The book of poetry is on sale in O’Brien’s costing just €15.
5 – Week Meditation Course
This online course will begin on this Thursday 5th March at 8pm. This is a Beginner-friendly meditation and breath practices for calm and relaxation. Call Mary 087 276 4539.
Sustainability and Biodiversity Workshop
Winners of free BER Assessments in Energy Master Plan surveys: Three lucky winners have won free home BER assessments as part of the Energy Master Plans for Longford Town, Lanesborough, and Ballyleague
The draws took place at the Sustainability and Biodiversity Workshop in the EDI Centre in Longford which was facilitated by Tidy Towns Adjudicator, Sharon Eastwood, and attended by over twenty participants from Tidy Towns groups and Sustainable Energy Communities. All residents who completed the residential energy survey were included in the draws. Another draw will take place in March for each of the three areas – so do complete the Survey before Monday next 9th March to be in with a chance. For residents of Longford Town the survey link is: https://s.surveyplanet.com/7dbt4udt for Lanesborough: https://s.surveyplanet.com/7dbt4udt for Ballyleague: https://s.surveyplanet.com/e759xt3z The Energy Master Plans are being developed by Climate 23 consulting under SEAI’s Sustainable Energy Communities programme and are supported by Longford and Roscommon County Councils. For more information on Sustainable Energy Communities or to get involved, please phone 087 2222543.
Oran reaches the 100 point mark
On my Facebook page on Sunday evening a message came up from that excellent Longford Gaelic Stats page congratulating Oran Kenny on being the 27th player in the history of the county to reach a 100 point total. Oran made his debut against Kildare in the O’Byrne Cup when Longford beat the Jack O’Connor; yes that Jack O’Connor managed Kildare on Saturday 7th December 2019. Oran added to his tally with 6points on Sunday and his tally of 6-82 (100pts) is creating his own piece of history and he is following in the illustrious footsteps of the first Rathcline clubman the late Pat Mullooly who topped the 100 point mark back in 1982.
Photograph compliments of Syl Healy.
Roscommon Community Challenge on Friday
And so, it is finally here, The Roscommon Community Challenge kicks off this Friday night March 6th. Now proudly in its 13th year, this much-loved community all-inclusive event starts at the Community Sports Park in Lisnamult and brings people together for a 5k or 8k run and walk that truly has something for everyone. Whether you are chasing a personal best, taking it steady with friends, or just soaking up the buzz, this is both a fun run and a serious run — you choose your pace.
This year, every step counts for an incredible cause. Funds raised will support eleven dedicated athletes from the Roscommon Special Olympics as they prepare to compete at the All-Ireland National Games in Dublin this June.
These athletes are training with heart, determination, and passion — and your support helps them get there. And that is not all… on the night, something really exciting will be unveiled — a major new addition to sports in Roscommon. Trust us; you will want to be there to see it happen!! So, lace up, bring your friends and family, and be part of a night that is about community, inclusion, fitness, and fun. Open to everyone of all ages, of all abilities and everyone is welcome. So do not miss out, Organisers are encouraging all to register on time and online now to Run it, walk it or race it – but most importantly of all to simply Enjoy it!
Online registrations help our volunteers prepare safely and smoothly for the event as we want everyone to have the best possible experience on the night.
If you’re joining us this year, please register online now it makes a massive difference to our little team https://tinyurl.com/Moonlight-5k-and-8k-Tickets
National Heritage Week
I know I am a little previous but speaking to some members of the local Lanesboro Heritage group they tell me that they are preparing an exciting presentation for National Heritage Week that, this year, takes place from Saturday 15th August to Sunday 23rd August.
The group are seeking old photographs and memorabilia of the Rathcline parish, be it its people, places, events and any other photographs of relevance to the history of the parish.
This is a prior notice to inform you of the upcoming event and to give you the opportunity to search out and share the photographs and documentation with the committee.
This trawl through the history of Lanesboro and the parish of Rathcline can only be successful with your input and collaboration. Let’s join together and get out all the old memorabilia and photographs and make this a very special Lanesboro celebration.
Drop off can be made in O’Brien’s for collection by Andrew Knowles.
Records and Personal Bests continue to fall
Congratulations to Oisín Dillon son of Denis and Eilish Dillon, Fermoyle who was just pipped on the line in the recent Connacht Indoor Championship. Oisín’s runwas a qualifying one for the 800m All-Irelands finals and an added bonus was that he again ran a personal best time. Oisín has continued to better his personal best times regularly all season.
Throwing the Shot Putt and creating records continues to come naturally to Andrew Nolan and at the recent Connacht Indoor Championship in Athlone Andrew once again qualified for the All-Ireland Indoor Finals with another personal best and a Connacht Championship record throw. Andrew is son of Enda and Martina Nolan, Knock Manor.
Both lads are students of Lanesboro Community College that are very supportive of the lads and their athletic achievements
We wish the very best to both lads in the upcoming All-Ireland finals at the end of March.
Community support for new athletic track
Small and forward thinkers many years ago set up the Lough Ree Athletic Club that is a pillar for all the athletic youngsters in not only Lanesboro and Ballyleague but for the surrounding communities. Although a small club the club has a wonderful history of winning many All-Ireland medals and providing runners at international level over its history. While the original committee was so far-seeing in building its own track so many years ago it is now so great to see so many locals supporting the Roscommon Athletic club as they are embarking on a major fundraising drive to build their own track in Roscommon Town.
Their dream is to create top class athletic facilities of national competition standard comprising of an 8 lane 400 metre track and field event area. This will help greatly in the development of runners and sports people in the wider hinterland. When it is completed it will be of great benefit to the many athletes from our wider area that will be able to use the facility.
Unlike most other sports Athletics speaks a universal language and gains universal support and we hope that a huge number of people of this area, that will have the opportunity to avail of the facility and see the massive benefit it will provide, will support this huge undertaking of the Roscommon Athletic Club.
The club is seeking your support for their fundraising draw as they have to fundraise €1millon to see the project to it conclusion. With an identified site in the Lisnamult area they are urging everyone with an interest in athletics and sport to support their upcoming draw.
There are two incredible top prizes up for grabs, sponsored by two of the leading Irish companies based in Roscommon Town. Lidan is dedicated to providing high-quality modular buildings and they will supply a €65,000 stunningly designed and crafted Garden Room and nationally and internationally acclaimed Mark Lohan Kitchens will supply a €25,000 Bespoke Kitchen.
Tickets, locally, are available locally in O’Brien’s Corner Shop. Tickets are priced at €30 each, 2 for €50 or 5 for €100 or they can be bought online at www.winagardenroomkitchen.ie
Lanesboro ICA Guild
National competitions
A bus full of Longford ladies travelled to An Grianán on Sunday last 1st March with 6 entries to the national competitions. In The Baumann Shield for music the ladies secured 1st place; in the new Irish competition ‘A showcase of Irish Culture they secured 2nd place and in the Drama they secured 3rd place. The results of the other competitions will be included in next week’s notes as they were not available at the time of departure. Thanks to all the members who gave of their time to represent Longford ICA, you did your guilds and federation proud .
Meeting
Our next guild meeting takes place on Wednesday 11th march at 8pm in the Hub . If you are curious about ICA come along and meet members out our wonderful guild, you will be warmly welcomed and members can answer any queries you might have.
Women’s Aid Coffee Morning
Virginia Quigley will host a coffee morning on Sunday next 8th March in the ICA Headquarters in Connolly barracks from 11am to 2pm. This is in aid of Women’s Aid and we would love to see as many there as possible to support the work the women’s aid do. As it is also International Women’s Day, what better day to come out and have a cuppa and a chat with others while supporting a great cause, see you all there.
Activities in ICA HQ this week
These classes are open to all.
Wednesday 6 to 6.50pm Pilates.
Thursday 12.30 to 1.30pm Chairobics
8pm to 9pm Line Dancing
Friday 11am to 2pm Craft Morning
Saturday 4pm to 6pm Crochet class with Virginia
Harry has a writing future
Many congratulations to Harry Kenny, son of Paul and Amanda Kenny, Cloonadra, who came in second place in his age group in the Roscommon County Drama Writing Festival. This the first win ever for Cluaintuskert National School. He collected his prize on Wednesday night at the ceremony.
For such a young lad Harry has a great history in creative writing as for the past few years he has been writing and publishing his own comic book Pizza Boy.
Good Luck Eoin
The very best of luck to Eoin O’Brien, Coolshaghtena, son of Mick O’Brien and Monica Connaughton who will lead the Roscommon Youth darts team into the All-Ireland Youth championship this coming weekend. Eoin, just 17 has an exciting career ahead on him, already having won many competitions and is current holder of the Roscommon Youths Masters, will compete in the singles on Friday and the team event over Saturday and Sunday in the Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe.
Photo attached show Eoin with his proud parents Mick and Monica after winning the Christmas singles.
Advance notice of celebration
You are invited to attend a very special evening on Saturday 21st March as we pay tribute to one of our very own, St.Faithleachs GAA clubman and Roscommon GAA footballer Ciaráin Murtagh. An evening to hear from Ciaráin, former team mates and special guests, and a night of great entertainment is assured. More to follow in next week’s edition of these notes
National Draw with great prizes
The GAA’s national Club draw for 2026 is now up and running and this is a great chance not only to be in with a chance to win some of the glorious prizes but also to support as all the money from the tickets sold locally will stay in the club. For just €15 you will be in with the chance of winning one of these fabulous prizes 1st – Toyota Corolla Hybrid, 2nd €20,000 cash prize, 3rd – €10,000 cash prize, 4th – €5,000 cash prize, 5th €5,000 cash prize, 6th – €2,500 Holiday Voucher, 7th and 8th All Ireland Hurling and Football package – the package is premium tickets for two people for both Football and Hurling finals with overnight accommodation and dinner in the Croke Park Hotel, 9th prize – the complete package for the All-Ireland Football Final with 2 Premium Level tickets, two nights’ (Saturday and Sunday) accommodation and dinner for 2 on Saturday night. The 10th and final prize is the complete package for the All-Ireland Hurling Final with 2 Premium Level tickets, two nights’ (Saturday and Sunday) accommodation and dinner for 2 on Saturday night.
Tickets €15 are available from the club executive or from O’Brien’s.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 23rd February for a prize of €635. The winning ticket was in the name of Kieran Healy, Cloonadra who was the recipient of the €635 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.
Change of Location
The local ‘Chit Chat’ group that meets on Friday’s between 10am and 12pm has moved to a new location. It has moved from Lanesbrew to Adie’s bar on Friday’s from 10am until 12noon.
Social Dancing Afternoon
You are welcome to go along, join in or just enjoy the music and the people dancing. Social dancing will continue every second Wednesday 4th March, 18th March and so on from 2pm to 4pm. Bring along your friends and if you have a dance partner and have an enjoyable afternoon.
Cúl Camps advance notice
Longford GAA’s Kellogg’s sponsored Cúl Camp will take place at the Rathcline GAA club’s grounds in Clonbonny on Monday 29th June. As places for the camps are limited it is very important that parents register their youngsters early to be sure of a place.
Ballyleague Hall caretaker
Liam Garvey was recently appointed as caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
Nobody cut the Joker yet
So far nobody has cut the deck of cards to show the Joker in the St. Faithleachs GAA club fundraiser and Saturday night last 28th February saw a jackpot for €2,900 go unclaimed and now it is getting very interesting as the odds grow in your favour.
The pool continues to rise and the number of cards gets fewer and the odds of turning the Joker are increasing so get your tickets for Saturday night next and you may the lucky one.
The jackpot rises to €3,000 on Saturday night next where the odds of turning the Joker is now one in 42. Go along to the clubhouse enjoy a great night of fun and craic in the clubhouse and be in with a chance to win the growing €3,000 jackpot. The odds are getting greater in your favour as the pool continues to rise and who knows that the €3,000 can be yours on Saturday night next. Saturday night winners in the draw were Billy Murray, who incidentally made his senior debut with St. Faithleach’s on Saturday and Martina Dunne who both won €100. Be in with your chance to have a cut for the Joker by buying tickets online on the ClubSpot portal St. Faithleach’s, from any of the organising committee or in the clubhouse on Saturday night.
Two weeks ago in the added prize draw Shauna Cox won a voucher for the Westport Plaza Hotel and this voucher was graciously sponsored by Paddy O’Rourke.
GRÁSTA
Are you preparing for marriage? There are weekend residential courses available from 6th – 8th March and again 13th – 15th November. Details are available at www.grasta.org or info@grasta.org
Married couples weekend residential courses are available on 7th – 8th March and again on14th – 15th November. Details are available at www.grasta.org or at info@grasta.org
Appeal or Fresh Daffodils
Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Day will be on Friday 20th March. As in previous years, the local voluntary organisers of Daffodil Day in Roscommon Town are appealing to the public to donate fresh daffodils. Volunteers will be available to receive daffodils at the Daffodil Day depot in the former ‘The Central Bar’, The Square, Roscommon Town, on Thursday 19th March from 10:30am – 6pm. Volunteers and students will be on the streets and at local shops selling fresh daffodils, silk daffodils and other items in support of this annual fundraiser.
You are asked to be as generous as possible to the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day wherever you live.Purple Day
In Ireland today, over 45,000 people live with epilepsy. For further information, please visit www.epilepsy.ie. Purple Day (or Epilepsy Awareness Day) will take place on Thursday 26th March.
Three talks
There will be three talks by the legendary Paddy Joe Burke on Thursday 19th March with the topic being ‘Who am I’; Thursday 23rd Apr the topic will be ‘Courage in the Crisis’ and the talks will conclude on Thursday 21st May with the topic ‘What can I do?’ The talks will begin at 7.30 p.m. in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown. Tickets at www.percyfrench.ie or call 090 6663794.
Lanesboro Library
Irish Heart Foundation – Free Blood Pressure & Pulse Checks
The Irish Heart Foundation will be at Lanesboro Library on Thursday 19th March from 10am to 2:45pm conducting free checks with their expert nurses. Following your check, the nurses will provide you with heart health information and advice to help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Brain Health & Memory Issues Talk with Pauline Lee HSE
Join us on Friday March 20th at 11am in Lanesboro Library for a talk with Pauline Lee of the HSE to learn how to look after your brain health no matter your age. Limited spaces – Book online or in library.
Parent & Toddler Morning
Join us Wednesdays from 11am – 12pm for our weekly parent and toddler morning.
Tea & Coffee provided and plenty of books, toys, and space for the little ones to enjoy.
Ciorcal Comhrá
Irish Conversation Group meeting in Lanesboro Library on Thursdays from 5 – 5.45pm. 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 043332129
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. Call into the library to learn how the system works, see a demonstration, and sign up for extended access. 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!
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.
€15,000 to be won
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 that can select the correct numbers. The next draw takes on Tuesday 3rd March, for the wonderful jackpot of €15,000. Don’t miss your opportunity to get hold of the full €15,000 or share in the money. The numbers drawn in the last draw on Tuesday 24th February were 6, 9, 16 and 21. The winner of the €50 prize was Seamus Reilly, Ballyleague, and the three €20 winners were K&S McGovern, Rathcline Road, Joe Browne, Ballyglass and Francis & John, Main Street.
The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on Tuesday 3rd March 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.
Roscommon Drama Festival begins
Roscommon Drama Festival will run from Friday next 6th to Saturday 14th March.
Tickets are booking out fast for what promises to be a “wonderful festival” which promises the very best in Irish Amateur Drama. There are two changes from the original programme which have occurred due to unforeseen circumstances. On Saturday night 7th Corofin Dramatic Society will present their play Wit by Margaret Edison. This play was originally to be performed on Wednesday 11th March. As a result there will be no show on this night. We apologise to patrons for any inconvenience caused.
One of the highlights of the Festival is the Children’s Short Story Writing Competition for 5th and 6th classes in the local primary schools. A short list of four plays in the programme has been made available to the schools and the students are encouraged to participate and write a short story based on any one of them. The winner will have their story printed in the Roscommon People. This competition has gone from strength to strength over the years with great credit due to students, teachers and parents alike.
The Festival was officially launched on Wednesday last 25th February by Councillor Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. Awards will also be presented to the winners in the various categories of the story writing competition on the same night. Tickets are now on sale at Roscommon Arts Centre priced at €20 nightly. A special five night ticket costs €90 while a season ticket covering all eight nights costs €120.
Tickets are selling fast, so if you want to be part of “one of, if not the best Drama Festivals” in the country contact Roscommon Arts Centre at 090 662 5824 or www.roscommonartscentre.ie
Coping Skills Program
“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 and Boyle with a new group starting in Roscommon Town. For more information, please contact Lorraine in complete confidence. 094 96 21690/lcampbell@rwn.ie
Talk to the Samaritans
Are you struggling to cope with life? Do you think it would be a help to talk about your problem with a member of the Samaritans in total confidence and confidentially? It does not matter who you are, how you feel or what has happened to you, a private chat with the assurance of confidentially can mean a lot. The alternative to getting down is a chat with a member of the Samaritans and that facility is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year so do not hesitate calling the Freephone number 116123 for your support.
ALONE
Would you be willing to provide companionship to an older person locally? ALONE are seeking volunteers in your area. Full training and support provided. If interested, please apply via the ALONE website at www.alone.ie or for further information please contact us on volunteer@alone.ie or call 0818 222 024. If you are over 60 and would like to know more about the services ALONE can offer you, please call 0818 222 024.
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.
Dollars at the right rate just now
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. New York will host Roscommon in Gaelic Park on Sunday 12th April at 3pm (8pm Irish time).
The exchange rate of the US$ dollar is still very favourable with the rate at the time of writing standing at €1 to $1.17c and now is the time to avail of the favourable exchange.
It is five years ago since Roscommon played New York and the memories of that wonderful week in the Big Apple and plans are afoot to make the 2026 even bigger and much more remarkable.
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.
Time is running out for booking as the game is only a short number of weeks away on Sunday 12th April.
The flights will be going out on the Thursday morning prior to the game and returning on the Monday night after. 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.
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
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.
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.
Offertory envelopes: Boxes of envelopes for Church offerings 2026 are available for collection in the church.
Rathcline Parish: The parish is allowed to benefit from families who contribute more than €250 to parish accounts each year. All parish donors have to do is to complete a form that is available on the table beside the donation boxes in the church. If you need any assistance please contact Maireád at the parish office or phone her 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 this Friday 6th March.
Smart Recovery: Smart recovery is an evidence based addiction recovery group, where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour. There is a meeting every Friday evening in Vita House in Roscommon Town from 7pm to 8.30pm. For information contact Conor at 086 1702919 or info@smartrecovery.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
Caretaker: Liam Garvey is now caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
Stations of the Cross: As part of the Lenten season activities, we will be having the Stations of the Cross at weekends 20minutes before Mass. This will replace the praying of the Holy Rosary before mass. Fr. Dan kindly encourages all parishioners to participate in in journeying with Jesus Christ as he embraces his passion, death and Resurrection at Easter.
Trócaire Lenten Envelopes: The annual Trócaire Lenten appeal envelopes are available in the three churches. You are asked to be generous in supporting the poor and needy as part of our Lenten observances.
Eucharistic Healing Retreat at Knock Shrine: An Eucharistic Healing retreat will be led by gifted Croatian priest, Fr. Rozo Palic on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th March at the St. John’s Welcome Centre, Knock. The retreat will take place on the Saturday from 10am to 6.30pm and on Sunday 10am to 4.30pm. Fr. Rozo will be supported by his Croatian Music Ministry team. There is no prior booking required and everyone is most welcome and you are advised to bring a packed lunch. For further information please contact Patricia 089 9466193 or Fiona at fionatjennings@yahoo.com
Support for ALONE : 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.
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.
Station Masses: The list of the Station Masses has just been published and they will commence on Tuesday 10th March at 7pm in Ballagh Church for the town lands of Ballagh, Gortylane, Ballincurry, Corry, Waterloo, Coxgrove, Cloonageeragh, Carton, Kilrooskey and Fairymount.
On Thursday 12th March at 7pm in Curraghroe Church for the townlands of Doughill, Culleenoria, Tullyvarron and Killavacken.
On Thursday 19th March, again, in Curraghroe Church at 7pm for the townlands of Curraghroe, Mount Dillon, Erra and Drinagh.
On Friday 20th March at 7pm in Ballyleague Church at 7pm for the townlands of Ballyleague 1, 2, 3, and 4, Lough Ree Park, Shannon Heights, Shannon Grove and Ballyclare court.
Clothes Collection; Ballagh NS is holding a clothing collection on this Thursday 5th March. All funds raised will go directly to the school. If you have any unwanted clothing, footwear, belts, handbags, hats, linens or household textiles please put them in bags and bring them to the school in the days prior to the collection. Bags may also be left outside the school on the morning of the collection before 9.30am. All donations gratefully appreciated.