Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
Remembering as a young fella my first meeting with Brendan Gaffney when he came to work and live in Lanesboro and it is with great sadness I record his death on Sunday 21st June at Mayo University Hospital. Brendan formerly lived at St. Anne’s, at Rathcline Crossroads (Harold’s Cross) and was living in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon since his return from Australia. For those of us that remember Winnie and Johnny Connors shop on the Main Street that had a garage attached to it was the first port of call for Brendan. For those of later generations Connor’s shop and garage was where Keane’s SuperValu now stands. Brendan and Mickie Flynn worked there until the mid-70’s when Mickie Flynn Car Sales opened on the Longford Road and both moved there. Brendan’s skill was as a panel beater and he one of the highest quality, such was the reputation for the excellence of his work that it brought people from far and wide. Brendan was forever busy and worked late into the evenings training and teaching many people his in-depth knowledge. He was an excellent family man and late in life along with his wife Ruth and family they decided to spread their wings by moving to Australia where they spent a number of happy years before returning to Ireland. Brendan and Ruth were predeceased by their son Padraig who passed away in Australia. Brendan, Ruth and their family have and still are fondly remembered by everyone that recollects their time here and the huge addition they mad and were to our parish community.
Brendan reposed at his home in Ballaghaderreen on Thursday last and on Friday his remains were removed to St. Nathy’s Cathedral for his Funeral Mass and it was followed by interment in Kilcolman Cemetery.
To his wife Ruth, his sons Paul, Mark and Alan, his daughters Eilish and Myriam, his brother Eamon, his sister Kathleen, relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Cemetery Sunday arrangements for the parish of Rathcline
The weekend of Saturday 11th July and Sunday 12th July will see the Blessing of the Graves at the three cemeteries in the parish of Rathcline.
On Saturday 11th July there will be Mass in St. Mary’s church at 6.30pm and the Blessing of the Graves in St. John’s, Lanesboro Cemetery will take place following Mass.
On Sunday 12th July weather permitting there will be Mass in Clonbonny Cemetery at 1.30pm followed by the Blessing of the Graves.
The final Blessing of the Graves will take place following Mass in Rathcline Cemetery at 6pm.
Everybody that has a family grave in the three cemeteries are asked to be diligent in tending to the graves and ensuring that they are in great condition as we remember and honour all those from our families that have passed away. When working on your family graves you are reminded to take away all your weeding, old flowers and leave the cemetery in pristine condition.
Tidy your family Grave
With Cemetery Sunday and the Blessing of the Graves just over one week away everyone with family plots in St. John’s/Lanesboro, Rathcline and Clonbonny cemeteries are asked and encouraged to tend to their family graves and have them in pristine condition for the ceremonies.
When cleaning up the graves you are asked to bring home all the excess and dispose of it through your bin system. There is no facility for disposing of excess at any of the cemeteries. Thank you.
Death
Born and reared in Cashelbeg and following his marriage to Newtowncashel lady, Mary Fallon, he moved across the parish border to make his family home in Fortwilliam. Johnny Connor passed away at his home on Tuesday 23rd June. He was predeceased by his brothers Ned, Mike and Mattie; his sisters, Mary Bridget and Margaret; and his sister-in-law, Mary B.
Johnny is well remembered as a man of great character, a wonderful and helpful neighbour and diligent farmer, indeed a man told me at the weekend of remembering him coming to their family land when he was a youngster with the Threshing Machine and what a lovely man he was. He will also be long remembered by many a young person in the area as their school bus driver where he ferried so many students to their classes in various schools. He will always be remembered as a warm mannered man and a great conversationalist. Johnny loved to stand and chat and when you left his company you were much the richer with all the knowledge he imparted to you. His passing will leave emptiness in the general locality of Rathcline and Newtowncashel where he was held in the highest esteem.
Johnny’s remains reposed at his residence on Thursday last 25th June. On Friday his remains were removed to the Church of the Blessed Virgin, Newtowncashel for his Funeral Mass. His burial took place afterwards in Cashel Cemetery.
To his wife Mary, his daughters, Olivia, Darina, Jacinta and Áine, his son, Enda, his sons-in-law, Seamus, Fergus and Derek, his daughter-in-law, Amanda, his grandchildren, Lucy, Isabelle, Rory, Alex, Jessica and Eva; his brother-in-law, Liam relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Andrew’s Record Breaking Continues
Day 2 of the 123.ie National Juvenile Track & Field Championships took place in Tullamore on Sunday last. Local lad Andrew Nolan who already had a great season with the Shot Put was once again to the fore. He continued his record breaking season with another championship record throw of a massive 17.12m.
This season has been unique for Andrew as he has been breaking records in every one of his competitions. Just for good measure on Saturday he took part in the Under 15 Javelin Throw and his throw of 38.34m seen him take home a national silver medal. Well done Andrew on another fabulous weekend for you.
All-Ireland Semi-final win
Congratulations to the Roscommon U16 Ladies Football team that overcame Armagh in a thrilling AirNav B Championship semi-final on Sunday last in a scoreline of 2-15 to 1-16. This was a great boost for the local St. Faithleach’s club that have two representatives on the team namely Sophie Cox and Phoebe Ryan. Congratulations to the girls, their club and their families and the very best of luck in the upcoming All-Ireland Final.
Exceptional spell of weather
The past week was an exceptional one weather wise and with the great weather comes the attraction of the Shannon.
With the recent advent of the Local Link 426 from Longford to Roscommon and vice versa the realisation that the bus will pass through Lanesboro and Ballyleague in total 14 times a day has proven to be an outstanding benefit to the community. Nobody was quicker to realise the benefits of this than the younger generation and for the past week they have been flocking to the Shannon where they engaged in swimming, the old tradition of jumping off the bridge as well as hanging out, having a great time and working on their tans. Families are also availing and they are arriving with picnic baskets, swimming gear and some are coming with their fishing rods.
This great weather shows us what an attraction in the community we have for everyone that wants to work on their tans, swim, fish go for a walk in the North Commons Woodland Walk or to just chill. This weather and the visitors have brought a wonderful vibrancy brought to our community with all the young people mingling with all of our own and availing of the facilities we can offer.
With the meteorological experts telling us that this hot weather is going to be commonplace as we go forward then as community we must rise to the challenge of coping with the influx of people and make sure that we develop amenities to encourage and keep all these people coming.
For an old stager like myself the influx brings back memories of Lanesboro and Ballyleague in times past when there was a great number of young people in the community and the great buzz of excitement that was then on the banks of the Shannon and in the small swimming pool where we all learned to swim. I hope the current visitors enjoy the amenities as we did in our time.
One cautionary note: We would like to remind everyone that both the Tidy Towns in Lanesboro and Ballyleague are doing Trojan work to maintain a great cleanliness in the community. There needs to be an awareness of this and all visitors to town and especially at the river must adhere to the clean community mantra built here that hopefully will see us benefit greatly when the Tidy Towns results come out.
Notifications of clean areas and extra litter bins should be supplied by Longford and Roscommon County Councils to both river banks to help with this current phenomenon that is Lanesboro and Ballyleague.
High Praise
Last week Longford County Council received correspondence from a lady from County Fermanagh that visited Lanesboro in her camper van over the previous two weekends. She was extremely high in her praise of the amenities, the North Commons Woodland Walk and the people of the community that made he so welcome.
It is always great to see camper vans coning to the area. We are a prime location and have a lot of the facilities required and with the utterances of Sean Mimnagh; the prospects of a fully resourced camping site and a new community centre are in the offering and this will be hugely beneficial to our community as a whole.
Mark on the Double
Congratulations to Cllr. Mark Casey who was elected to not one but two onerous positions in the council last week.
Firstly, Mark was elected as Ballymahon Municipal District Chairperson for the coming year and secondly he was elected as Leas Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council for the coming year two onerous tasks but also hugely beneficial.
We wish Mark the very best in his dual roles and hope his year is laden down with success.
Road Closure
Two Provinces Triathlon ran by Lanesboro Triathlon Club is on Saturday 11th July with a road closure from 11 am to 2 pm between the Sliabh Bawn Ballyleague – Scramogue and Rathcline Road between O’Brien’s and Harold’s Cross.
The Kidathon will take place on Friday 10th July with traffic restrictions from 7:30pm to 8:30pm, between O’Brien’s Corner and Harold’s Cross.
The Club wishes to thank the community for its continued support in running the race and apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Club Longford Car or €50,000 Cash Draw
The annual Club Longford GAA draw will once again take place at the end of July. The first prize this year will be a brand new Hyundai Tucson Platinum PHEV or alternatively you can opt for the €50,000 cash prize. 2nd prize is €1,500 sponsored by O’Hara Dolan, N4 Axis Centre, 3rd prize is €1,000 sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors and 4th prize is another €1,000 sponsored by Elgin Energy.
For those that buy their tickets early they will be in for the 3 early bird draws of 2 tickets for the upcoming Manchester United and Leeds United match in Croke Park on 12th August; 2 tickets for the All-Ireland Hurling Final with the inclusion of an overnight stay in the Castleknock Hotel and the third draw is 2 tickets for the All-Ireland Football Final with the inclusion of with an overnight stay in the Croke Park Hotel.
Tickets are on sale in O’Brien’s, they are priced at 1 for €20, 3 for €50, 7 for €100 or 12 for €150.
Step aboard and create lasting memories.
This summer why not take a trip on John Sorohan’s electric boat? Experience the peaceful lapping waters of the river without the noise of an engine. View the environment of Lanesboro from a different perspective.
Hear about the history of Upper Lough Ree.
This trip is perfect for families, couples, and groups.
Check us out at https://www.loughReeBoatingandWalkingTours.ie
Get Ready for the Galway Races
Once again the Rathcline GAA Club’s annual day at the Galway Races Day will take place on Monday 27th July. The Race Day will once again be proudly sponsored by Keane’s SuperValu on the Main Street.
As always a great day out is guaranteed with plenty of racing, food, music and laughs on the day!
As we are closing in on this fabulous occasion and tickets are in great demand it is time to book your ticket to avoid disappointment. to go tickets are flying out!
Tickets cost €150 per person and the package includes:
Racecourse admission, Complimentary car parking, Champagne reception on arrival, Race card & pen, Racing tipster, four course gourmet meal, Complimentary wines with meal, Full bar facilities, Afternoon tea, Tote betting facilities, Reserved table for the day, there will a be prizes for the Best dressed lady and gent
Music and entertainment will be supplied by Sum Antics
A bus will be provided subject to sufficient demand
For bookings or more information contact the Race Committee:
Stephen Rooney – 0863176301
Liam Connerton – 0868776405
Seadna Ryan – 0851595512
Lorraine Farrell – 0876827966
Pat Connerton – 0861617501
Book now to secure your place
Sympathy
We extend our deepest sympathy to Áine and Micheál O’Sullivan and their family on the death of Áine’s father Cathal Moore, Tirkeenan, Monaghan Town, Monaghan who passed away on Friday 26th June. This a a particularly hard time on Áine as in the space of 5 short months she has seen both her parents pass away.
First Chapters – Early Years’ Service
First Chapters – Early Years Service will be opening its doors in the townsland of Clonbonny (on the Longford Road), with their brand new custom built early years service. The building will house 3 purpose –designed rooms for different stages of development.
You are invited to register your interest for; Baby Room, Toddler Room and Preschool Room. With place being limited you are advised to make early bookings by contacting Úna today by emailing firstchapters@hotmail.com
Tremendous work is on-going in preparation of the opening by Michael Hanley and his wife Úna and there is no doubt that it will be a state of the art facility for all the young children using First Chapters.
Michael and Úna are also opening A First Chapters in Roscommon Town in the new Oldwood Housing Estate.
Recruiting
Úna is recruiting Lead Early Years Educators, Early Years Educators and a Crèche Cook. If you are available for any of those positions you are asked to email Úna at firstchapters@hotmail.com
Sympathy
We extend our deepest sympathy to Frank and the Cafferty family, Rathcline Road on the death of his late wife Geraldine’s brother Johnny Gallagher, Coolmeen House, Fuerty, Roscommon who passed away on Saturday 27th June.
Echoes of BnM and ESB: The Grand Lanesboro & Ballyleague Reunion
We are endeavouring to make a magical trip down memory lane for all the families that came to Lanesboro and Ballyleague communities when they came to work with Bord na Mona and ESB since the mid 1950’s. We are remembering their parents and all the families that grew up going to school in the all the schools around the three housing estates of The Green, Cloontuskert and Derryhaun. We are also remembering all the families that came to work from all the surrounding parishes. There were also a number of years of apprentices that came to Lanesboro Vocational School now Lanesboro Community College and the committee would love to welcome them back too.
To help with the reconnection of everyone we would like that everyone that reads these notes and that have connections to anyone that comes from the above mentioned families that they would pass the word around of a giant gathering in Lanesboro on Saturday 26th September where we will all reconnect with Bord na Mona and ESB.
It is fitting and a right time to do this as the power station has been closed for seven years now and the Bord na Mona works is rapidly come to its life end and we should all celebrate what both companies and the people that it brought to work here and bring families and former workers back to the community that they made so great.
The organising group is asking you to share the news with old school friends, send vintage photos with names to lanesbororeconnection@gmail.com or drop physical copies into O’Brien’s. It would be made all the better if you could include names of the people in the photographs. Please put your name on anything you leave into O’Brien’s as we want to credit your input and be able to return them to you.
If you wish to scan them yourself you can send then to lanesbororeconnection@gmail.com The committee would love to receive all your memories.
The Joker survives again
The Joker is on the rise once again and on Saturday night last the Joker was not cut from the deck of cards and another €100 will be added to the jackpot for next week. The Joker stands at €2,900 from the remaining 43 cards on Saturday night next 4th July in the St. Faithleach’s clubhouse.
The €100 draw took place and the two winners of last Saturday’s draw winners, 27th June, were Caroline McCormack and Mary Quinn.
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.
Killashee & Clondra Parish
The process of collating the historical records of Killashee and Clondra Parish has just begun and the first publication sees a very detailed account of the history of faith in the parish subtitled ‘A History of Faith ‘is now available.
The faith history and records of the parish is phenomenally detailed so much so that the list of the clergy that served both the Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic Church were comprehensively recorded to the extent that there is a record going back to 1411.
The communities of St. Paul’s Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic churches of St. Patrick’s (Killashee) and St. Brendan’s (Clondra) has and continues to play a major role in the parish for such a long time.
This book is launched to coincide with a momentous occasion that is presently happening in the parish where Fr. Shea Casey and Fr. Jimmie McDonnell are both celebrating the Golden Jubilee of their ordination into the priesthood.
This Killashee& Clondra Parish – A History of Faith is available in O’Brien’s costing just €25.
One–Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg
The annual one-day pilgrimage to Lough Derg will take place this year on Sunday 23rd August. The bus will leave Ballyleague at 7am and booking is essential. Bookings can be made by contacting Mary 043 33 21969.
Holy Hill Hermitage
Everyone is invited to an Open Sunday at Holy Hill Hermitage in Skreen, Co. Sligo on Sunday next 5th July. Bishop John Fleming will celebrate mass at noon, and The Rejoice Gospel Choir from Ballina will sing at the mass. There will be hot dogs and music afterwards in the courtyard.
Lough Ree Access For All
The Lough Ree Access For All is running accessible and able bodied boat tours 3 times daily during the summer months. The services supplied are a Riverside Café, Sensory Shed, Virtual Reality experience, Powerboat training courses, and Lake Boat hire. You can see the full list of facilities and activities on the website www.loughreeboattrips.com ; email info@accessforallboatrips.com or phone 089 262 5505.
Shine Relatives and Supporters Group
A monthly support group for individuals supporting people living with mental health challenges. The support group occurs on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm – 8.30pm in REGARI Recovery College, Roscommon Town. Email support@shine.ie or call 086 040 7701.
St. Faithleach’s lotto
The St. Faithleach’s bi-weekly lottery draw took place in the clubhouse on Tuesday 23rd June for a jackpot of €2,300. The numbers drawn were 6, 9, 18 and 23. There was nobody with the correct numbers and the jackpot was not won and the pool rises to €2,400 for the next draw on Tuesday 7th July. The winner of the €200 draw was Amanda Cox.
€15,000 still remains to be won
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning in O’Brien’s at 10.30am. For the past number of months the jackpot has been static at its upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers that €15,000 is still there to be won. The next draw takes on Tuesday 30th June, for the 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 23rd June were 3, 22, 26 and 30. The winner of the €50 prize was Emma Kilbride, Strokestown Road and the three winners of the €20 prizes were Mags & Martin, c/o Mags, Pat Kilcoyne, Barnacor and one of our boating tourists, Conor Little.
The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on Tuesday 9th June and every Tuesday morning afterwards. 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.
Rathcline 50/50 Draw
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 22nd June for another great prize of €761. The winning ticket was in the name of Gerard McCarthy, Curraghrua, who was the recipient of the €761 cheque. As usual the winning cheque will be left in O’Brien’s for collection and can be usually collected on Wednesday evenings.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is keeping the pool at a wonderfully high figure and it is greatly appreciated as it is making a great difference to the winner each week.
Hurlers/Camógs and coaches required
The resurrection of hurling has continued to grow in the Rathcline club with young players coming from many areas to learn the skill of hurling.
The club is open to accepting many more youngsters from under 8 upwards and their parents with an interest in hurling.
The number of girls turning up to learn the skills of Camogie is very encouraging and it is hoped that with a few more numbers there will also be a very active number of Camogie teams.
National Heritage Week
As previously mentioned in these notes The Shannonside Heritage Society will be holding a photographic exhibition to coincide with Irish Heritage week, which this year runs from the 15th-23rd August.
The theme this year is ‘Heritage at Risk’ and the exhibition will be held in St Mary’s hall.
We are looking in particular for any old photographs relating to: Bord na Mona, varies versions the Power Station, any domestic bog workings – cutting, harvesting, footing etc., any other photographs relative to other industrial works such as the Quarry, Tomato Farm, Windmill etc. etc.
Also, photographs of any lost buildings, buildings that have changed their use over the years, i.e. shops, pubs, hotels and any photographs of land and areas prior to development.
We are particularly keen to have any pictures that might show the river as a working environment, including any photos of the river banks packed with fishermen and boats as was often the case.
If you have any such photographs that you think will fit nicely with our exhibition then we would ask you to please:
Mark the back of the photograph with your name and phone number so that we can return them to you.
Leave them in an envelope with O’Brien’s Corner Shop marked for the attention of Andrew Knowles at Shannonside Heritage Society.
Please submit your photographs by 1st July 2026.
Shared Reading
A gentle and welcoming shared reading group takes place in the Roscommon library, open to people living with dementia and their carers. Come along to relax, enjoy listening to stories of local history or any topic, and share a cup of tea in a friendly, supportive setting. There is no pressure to read – simply listen and enjoy the company. Every second Wednesday at 11am and continues every Wednesday at Roscommon Town Library Contact: 09066 37277 library@roscommoncoco.ie New members are always very welcome. If you or someone you know might enjoy this relaxed social gathering, please feel free to come along.
Shine Relatives & Supporters Group
A monthly support group for individuals supporting people living with mental health challenges occurs on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 7pm – 8.30pm in REGARI Recovery College, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town. Email support@shine.ie or call 086 040 7701.
REGARI Recovery College is the single story building on the immediate right past the cemetery on the grounds of the Roscommon Hospital
Alzheimer Café
The Longford Alzheimer Cafe will provide a safe, warm and welcoming space for people with dementia, their family and friends, along with social and health care professionals to meet and exchange ideas and learnings. For Further information you can contact Eileen on 085 8724475 .The Alzheimer Society of Ireland National Helpline is open six days a week Monday to Friday 10am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm on 1800 341 341. and the website is: www.alzheimer.ie
Popular books back on the shelves
The long awaited copies of the very popular ‘In the Wake of the Bagger’ by Jack Harte have just arrived back on the shelves and they are on sale at just €14.
Kieran Feeney’s first book of poetry – Opaque sold out very quickly and in recent times more books have become available. The book of poetry is on sale in O’Brien’s costing €15.
Likewise with Daniel Mc Gann’s first book Odyssey, it has been a resounding local success and new stock. Daniel’s debut book is on sale in O’Brien’s at €20.
Short Breaks Scheme
Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children & adults who have an intellectual disability? Corlann West, Homeshare Roscommon is recruiting host carers. Training and support will be provided. Tax exempt/Allowances paid. For further information email www.Homeshareroscommon@corlann.ie or phone Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.
N. A Meetings
N.A. physical meetings on Tuesday nights from 8 – 9 p.m. in Room 13 at St. Coman’s Club,
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.
Chit Chat
The local ‘Chit Chat’ group that meets between 10am and 12pm in Adie’s bar every Friday from 10am until 12 noon.
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 next 29th June. We are sure that once again the camp will see the “Full Camp” signs up. We hope that all the youngsters have a fabulous camp.
Ballyleague Hall caretaker
Liam Garvey is caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
Lanesboro 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. All Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie or 0433321291
Ciorcal Comhrá
The Irish Conversation Group that met in the library every Thursday has call a halt to the ‘Comhrá’ for the summer months and the conversations will recommence in September. 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.
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.
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.
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 evenings at 7pm.
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 this Friday 3rd July.
Thank You: Sincere thanks to the mass attendees of Lanesboro and all the collectors for their generous support and donations at the recent Church Gate collection which amounted to €391.50. Your donation will help St. Christopher’s continue their services.
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
Graveyard Mass: The 33rd annual Kilteevan graveyard Mass will be celebrated in the new section of Kilteevan graveyard on next Saturday 4th July at 7pm. If the weather is inclement the Mass will take place in the church.
Appreciation: Fr. Dan wishes to express his gratitude to all parishioners for their goodwill and prayers while he was away on annual holidays. He says it is good to be back home with the gorgeous weather. In a special way, he wishes to appreciate Fr. Enobong Udoidlong, Kilbeggan who was available to cover all masses at the weekends and to Fr. Larry Behan for his availability to assist with baptisms, funerals, and other emergencies in the parish. May God richly bless you in your ministry.
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.
Medjugorje Pilgrimage: The Medjugorje Pilgrimage will take place from the 21st – 28th October, from Knock €915 (Single Supplement €170). There is limited availability so early booking is advisable. Spiritual Director for the pilgrimage is: Fr. John Keane. The costs include flights/ accommodation/meals/programme. For information and bookings please contact Christina 0861546099 or Carol 0879581495
Dioceses of Achonry And Elphin Pilgrimage To Lourdes –
Assisted Pilgrim Section: The Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 28th August – 2nd September inclusive, under the leadership of Bishop Kevin Doran. Pilgrimage highlights includes Mass at the Grotto, Torchlight and Blessed Sacrament Processions, Anointing of the Sick, Water Ceremony. Flights are ex Knock Airport. The Pilgrimage includes the Assisted Pilgrim Section. Those who travel as part of the Assisted Pilgrim Section will stay in Accueil Notre Dame, which is situated near the Grotto and Sanctuary area. They will be cared for by the Diocesan Pilgrimage Care Team whilst in Lourdes. Application forms for the Assisted Pilgrim Section and full details are available from Very Rev. Ray Milton, P.P., Pilgrimage Director, St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. (Tel: 090 666 1115). Closing date for receipt of completed Application Forms is this Thursday 11th June. All other enquiries in relation to the Pilgrimage can be directed to Joe Walsh Tours (JWT) at 016852244 or email info@joewalshtours.ie
Short Breaks Scheme: Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children/adults who have an intellectual disability? Corlann West, Homeshare Roscommon is recruiting host carers. Training/support provided. Tax exempt allowances paid. Email: Homeshareroscommon@corlann.ie call Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.
St. Faithleach’s GAA news
● Well done to our club representatives, Sophie Cox and Phoebe Ryan, who have made it to the All-Ireland U16 B Final with Roscommon LGFA u16 Team.
They will play Laois on Wednesday 15th July at 7.30pm. Venue TBC.
● Senior League: Topline Wards O’Gara Cup (Division 2)
Round 11 Results: St. Faithleach’s (2-19) St Michael’s (1-15)
The Final will take place against Elphin in Orchard Park on Friday 3rd July at 8pm.
● Junior League: Cryan’s Hotel (Division 4)
The Final will take place against Boyle in Ballyleague on Friday 10th July at 8pm.
● U-18 Ladies Championship (Division 3):
Round 1 will take place against St. Mary’s Tulsk on Tuesday 30rd June at 7pm, in Tulsk.
● U-16 Ladies Championship (Division 2A):
Round 1 will take place against St. Barry’s on Wednesday 8th July at 7pm in Ballyleague.
● U-14 Boys Championship (Division 4):
Round 1 will take place against Padraig Pearses on Tuesday 7th July at 7.30pm in Woodmount.
● Cards: 25 continues every Tuesday evening in the clubhouse
● Joker Draw: No Joker was found this weekend. The new Jackpot is €2,900, with 43 cards plus the Joker. The draw takes place every Saturday night in the clubhouse. Tickets will be available on the night, on our ClubSpot App or online (https://member.clubspot.app/club/st-faithleachs-gaa/fundraisers). *Last Jackpot winner was bought online