Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Welcome back day on Saturday next
Saturday next 26th September will prove to be a powerful day (pardon the pun) in the community as we welcome former workers and their families back to Lanesboro for a Reconnection and Recollection Day as we remember all those that worked in both Bord na Mona and ESB. The committee has been gathering memories of past glory days and all will be on display in the parish hall and we hope that the presentation will bring those attending back to the wonderful days of working and schooling in the areas of Lanesboro, Ballyleague, Cloontuskert, Ballagh, Cloontagh and all the surrounding schools.
For my generation, we can fondly remember growing up with all the new people coming to live and work with both Bord na Mona and ESB and us growing along with their children. The memories created will never again be replicated in any coming generation. All quickly became local in their adopted homes and right up to this present day the workers, native and those that came to work with both companies and their families went on to great heights throughout the world with their outstanding achievements. The people of both companies made each and every village and townsland richer financially and culturally.
Former workers and their families and students of the local primary schools of Lanesboro, Fermoyle, Cloontuskert, Ballyleague, Ballagh, Curraghroe, Cloontagh and Lanesboro Community College (formerly Lanesboro Vocational School) and the Convent of Mercy Secondary School of BnM and ESB families that lived and gave so much to our community and the wider area will be welcomed to meet and catch up with former workers or indeed former schoolmates.
Lanesboro also welcomed and housed many of the BnM apprentices in our community as they completed their training at Lanesboro Vocation School, now Lanesboro Community College and we would love to welcome many of them back to relive their memories in Lanesboro.
It is amazing that people from all over the country that came from the very outset are still being quoted and mentioned with a great fondness and respect.
This is a general and wide invitation to everyone and their families to visit the hall between 10 and 4pm and enjoy the company of former workers and old friends.
This is a wonderful opportunity for everybody to come to the hall for the exhibition and welcome the people back to our community.
Former local passes away
It was with a great sadness we were informed of the death on Monday 14th September of Imelda Guckian nee McGuire, Derrywillow, Aughamore, Co. Leitrim. Imelda was born and raised at the family home in Clonfower. Following her schooling she moved to Dublin to work in the Civil Service where she first worked in the Department of Finance before moving on to the Patent Office. She met and married her husband Padraig Guckian and set up their family home in Leitrim. Imelda was predeceased by her husband Padraig, her parents Mary and John McGuire, her brothers James, Michael, John, Matty, and her sisters Mary and Sr. Ann. Imelda was a lady, distinctive by the warmth of her welcome, her beaming smile, and homeliness. She always remained young at heart and she really enjoyed the innocent mischief of kid’s. She was a very enthusiastic lady, a great conversationalist and always enjoyed welcoming visitors to catch up on all the local events. She always maintained a great interest in her home parish and it happenings. Imelda left a lasting memory with everyone that knew her and there is a great sadness at her departing.
Imelda’s remains reposed at St. Mary’s Church, Annaduff on Wednesday 16th. Requiem Mass took place on Thursday and burial took place to the adjoining cemetery. To her sons Frank and John, her daughters Marie and Annette, her surviving sister Sr. John Elizabeth, Poor Clare Convent, Arundel, England, her grandchildren, extended family and friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Annual Fundraising Night
The annual fundraising night will once again with a night of entertainment at St. Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon Town on this Friday night 25th September. The show will commence at 7.30pm and this year the 50/50 share will be between Zoe Cryan http://gofund.me/d648 Zoe-wish-to-chew-CHAE and Hannah Victory http://gofund.me/144531 . Admission at the door is by donation only. For further information contact Richard Kennedy C.O.I. 086 156 5664. Music on the night will be with Kilgefin/Scramogue Choir and other guests. Please come along for should be a beautiful evening supporting very worthy causes.
U-14‘s bridge 40 year gap
For the second Saturday in a row the Shannon Gaels Minor Football Club was in celebration mode as this weekend the club’s under 14 team won the county championship after a 40 year gap in Glennon Brothers Pearse Park on Saturday last. The team beat a much fancied Clonguish side in what was an excellent game of football. At half time the lads were leading after playing with the breeze. I don’t know if it is a second half thing but the story was similar with the U16’s in their victory and playing against the wind for the second half they went on to limit Clonguish and drive forward themselves for a convincing victory.
It was only on Friday last that Peter Skelly was in the shop chatting to me and remembering the fateful day back in 1966 when the minor club created their own piece of history when they won both the Under 14 and Minor on the same day. Peter recalls that historic day vividly as he was playing on the minor team. The Under 16’s last week had a 55 year wait and the Under 14 title was last won by the club in 1986 just 40 years ago. It has been a long wait and the lads were well entitled to their long delayed celebrations. We must acknowledge the panel and management for their tremendous victory and they were Adrians Danilovs, Luke McDonnell, Patrick Casey, Senan McHale, David Kenny, Donncha Farrell, Tyler Murray, Tom Hession, Sean Hogan, Matthew Murphy, Andrew Nolan, Niall Morgan, Cian Shea, Darragh Shanley, Finn Fallon, Ben Cassidy, Malachy Martin, Douglas Johnston, Joe Greally, Mark Hession, Jay Hanley, Daniel Healy, Ronan Kelly Mikey Dennigan and Zack Mitchell and management team were Paul Hession, Patrick McHale, Oisín Kenny and Neil O’Connor.
Win a load of Turf
Here is your opportunity to be in with the chance to win a 15 x 7ft trailer load of turf in the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club’s fundraising draw. Tickets are priced at €5 for one or a book of 3 for €10. The draw will take place in the Central Bar, Strokestown on Friday 27th November.
Updates from our councillors
During the week I spotted updates from both our councillors’ mark Casey and Seán Mimnagh about an improvement and a relaunch.
Firstly I read that Mark Casey was announcing that Lanesboro Boxing Club is about to reopen after a number of years of absence. He has been working hard at the regeneration of the club and his work is about to come to fruition when the club will reopen at the old “Tomato Shed” just past Lanesboro Primary School. Back in my day as a young fella we remember Tommy Harold and John Hester running a thriving boxing club, the name of Joe Casey, (who was gone at my time) and who lived in the Green was legendary. Our heroes were the McCormack brothers, Brian and Pat who were competing at national level and they set they set the tone for many more excellent boxers to come from the club. It is great to see Mark resurrecting the club once more and hopefully it will once again be producing champions form its Lanesboro base.
Sean Mimnagh had a post in about the ‘Duck ‘Pond’ being cleaned out after his asking the county council. The low level of water in the Shannon has also practically drained the pond and it is clearly that a drastic clean out was vital to the existence of the pond and the drawing power it has with young and old in the community.
We remember all the local people that created the duck pond and fashioned a great visiting area for everyone. The park was developed around it and as the triathlon club and this summer has shown that the development of the duck pond and the green area is a wonderful attraction and amenity to the Shannon banks area and Lanesboro and Ballyleague as a whole.
Well done lads on your great work and may you continue to have much success for the area.
Age Friendly Longford
The Longford Age Friendly Information Day 2026 will take place on Monday next 28th September from 10am until 3.30pm. Pre-booking is essential on www.longford library.ie or by confirming with your local library (Lanesboro 3321291).
The Age Friendly is also one of great entertainment with good fun mingled with talks and demonstrations and much more. Age Friendly Day is a great celebration of positive ageing.
Windsong Music
Windsong Music is presently enrolling for the new academic year just starting. Windsong is offering lessons for all ages and levels in piano, singing, violin, cello and harp. They are also offering individual grinds for Junior and Leaving Certificate Music written papers and practical exams. You are invited to reach out to Windsong by phoning 089 4974865 or 087 3649005 or email windsongmusiclessons@gmail.com
All-Ireland Masters Shield Winners
Two-in-a-row was the cry at the Drumlish club’s grounds on Saturday last when the Roscommon Masters team were crowned Shield champions for the second year in a row when they defeated Meath Masters on a 1-13 to 2-07 scoreline. St. Faithleach’s man Darragh Hussey was the named the Man-of-the-Match for his great display and he was joined by two further St. Faithleach’s player in Aidan Dooney and Adrian Murtagh. Congratulation lads on taking another All-Ireland title back to St. Faithleach’s.
Pictured is Darragh Hussey with his award, Adrian Murtagh holding the Masters Shield and Adrian Dooney.
New Arches at Cloontuskert
The Cloontuskert Cemetery committee has just completed their final task for 2026. The erection of two new arches entering both the old and new cemetery is a wonderful addition to the superb work that continues to be done at both the old and new cemetery. As you can see from the photographs this is a delightful addition to both entrances.
Invite to new Power Station book launch
Everyone is invited to the launch of a new book about Lanesborough’s old ESB Power
Station. The launch takes place in St Mary’s Parish Hall, Lanesborough, on Thursday 1st October at 12 noon. With the title “ESB Lanesborough Station the people who powered it”, the book is the work of authors Brendan Whitty and John Loughlin and it recalls what life was like in the old power station which shut down in 2004.
It steers clear of the complexities of engineering and technology involved in power production and concentrates instead on the people who made the station what it was.
At the heart of the book is a remarkable photographic record, drawing extensively on the vast archive assembled by Brendan Whitty during his lifetime in the station. His photographs, together with images and contributions from former colleagues and friends, paint a picture of life inside the workplace and some of the social life attached to the station. Lanesborough station was held in very high regard in ESB due to its very high reliability and efficiency, and won many awards for excellence throughout its long life. The station had a unique working environment and staff took great pride in their station. The book is intended as a tribute to all who worked there, celebrates their achievements and preserves their memories for future generations.
Thank You
The Lanesborough branch of Longford Hospice would like to thank everyone that supported their Coffee morning last Sunday, to all who turned up and made donations and bought raffle tickets. To those who couldn’t be there for sending their donations. Thanks to all our sponsors…Casserly’s Spar, Keane’s SuperValu, PJ & Joan Donnellan, Vinnie & Mary McGowan, Johnston’s Pharmacy, Cloud 9, C.B.Gillen & Co, Pauline Casey, Mary Kelly, Geraldine Farrell and Mags Hair Salon. Thanks to Lanesborough Parish Hall committee for the use of the premises, Seadhna & Teresa Ryan for the fabulous floral displays and FAS team for their assistance with tables and chairs.
The winners of the raffle that took place were: Evelyn Scott, Pauline Casey, Eileen Mimnagh, Luke Brehon, Celine Hester, Niamh Casey, Teresa Kiernan, Freda Kenny, Sinead Casey, Catherine Kelly, Margaret Mullooly, Ellen and Odin Farrell.
Protect Lanesborough Thanks the Community for Outstanding Support
The committee of Protect Lanesborough would like to express our sincere thanks to the people of Lanesborough, Ballyleague and the surrounding areas for the incredible support shown over recent weeks.
We have been overwhelmed by the large numbers who attended our public information clinics, took the time to engage with the process, and made submissions regarding the proposed solar farm developments in the wider Lanesborough area. The strength of local participation demonstrates the deep care that our community has for its landscape, heritage, environment and future development.
As this article goes to print, the submission deadline of Tuesday, 22nd September is approaching. We would like to thank everyone who has already lodged an objection or sought information to help them make an informed decision. The level of community engagement has been truly encouraging and highlights the importance of ensuring local voices are heard on issues that may have a significant impact on our area.
Protect Lanesborough was established to represent community concerns regarding the scale and location of the proposed developments and to advocate for responsible planning that respects the character of our local area.
While the submission period may be ending, our work will continue. Following the deadline, we will keep the community informed of any updates, developments and next steps as they arise. We remain committed to providing factual information and representing the views and concerns expressed by local residents throughout this process.
Once again, thank you to everyone who has supported the campaign, attended meetings and clinics, shared information, and participated in the planning process. The community response has shown the strength and spirit of the people of Lanesborough and surrounding areas.
Protect Lanesborough Committee
“Working together to ensure the voice of our community is heard.”
New Defibrillator location
There is always a need for new locations for defibrillators in the community and we were delighted to be informed of a new defibrillator being installed at Lanesboro Primary School The new defibrillator is located inside the school grounds at the left hand side of the front door. The Parents Association are to be thanked for the sponsorship of the housing unit for the defibrillator.
Bridge Classes
Beginners and improvers bridge classes will start on this Thursday September 24th in Lanesborough Parish Hall. Contact joanmd@eircom.net or phone Joan on 0862350161.
The Joker reaches €4,100
The Joker is on the rise once again and on Saturday night last 19th September the Joker was not cut from the deck of cards and another €100 will be added to the jackpot for next week. With the cards getting fewer and the jackpot is still rising, this is a great time to be taking your chance of winning the growing pool. The Joker will now stand at a rising €4,100 from the remaining 3 cards on Saturday night next 26th September in the St. Faithleach’s clubhouse.
The €100 draw took place and the two winners of last Saturday’s draw winners, 19th September were Frank Curley and Pat McCormack.
Be in with your chance to have a cut for the Joker by buying tickets online on the ClubSpot portal St. Faithleach’s
Attic House Colour Run
The Longford Town Teen Project is hosting the Attic House 5Km Colour Run in the Albert Reynolds Peace Park on Sunday 11th October starting at 12 noon. This year the run is taking place to raise funds for Cian’s Kennels – Cian’s Kennels is a charity that allows hospitalised kids to have their dogs by their side for that extra dose of comfort and joy and we all can appreciate the magnificent work that Cian’s Kennels does.
It costs just €5 for adult entry and just €2 for under 16’s. Registration will take place on the day and everyone is encouraged to wear white for this run. For further information you should contact Anna 086 1915386 or Frank 086 8222566.
Morning Bridge
The Morning Larks Bridge Club resumes on Friday next, 25th September, in Hannon’s Hotel on the Athlone Road at 10 am. New members welcome.
Ballinamuck Social Dancing & Community Gathering
The next Social evening will take place on Sunday next , 27th September from 5-7 pm in the ’98 Memorial Hall, Ballinamuck Village (N39 Y7C1)
The music on the evening will be provided by Adrian Ryan
This is a great opportunity for a dance, a cuppa, and a catch-up with friends old and new – looking forward to welcoming everyone! Newcomers are always welcome!
For more info contact: Aisling 086 3663901
Afternoon of Prayer
Achonry and Elphin Dioceses’ Apostolic Workers will hold an afternoon of prayer on Saturday, 10th October at Donamon Castle, Co. Roscommon, commencing at 2pm. Reflection, Holy Hour, Rosary, Mass, and veneration of the Relics of St. Therese and her parents Louis and Zelie Martin. Refreshments will be available from 3.30pm to 4pm. Donation €10. Everyone welcome.
Combo fit class with Regina
The Combo Fit class continues on Thursday’s in St. Marys Hall, Lanesboro. 7.30pm.. The class will incorporate low impact Pilates Movements, using body weight, light hand weights, resistance bands. This will improve posture, balance, bone density, and will enhance joint mobility.
Be strong, steady, and straight.
For further information please contact Regina at 087 2485822.
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.
Hospice Coffee Morning
St Faithleach’s GAA club are hosting a coffee morning in aid of Hospice in their Clubhouse on Saturday next 26th September from 10.00am to 1.00pm. Come along and enjoy a coffee and a chat and support this worthy cause.
All welcome
TAI CHI
TAI CHI and CHI KUNG is a well-recognised movement for health and fitness and classes for both disciplines has commenced in Ballyleague Hall on Wednesday evenings from 8 to 9pm. If you want to register or find out further information you are asked to phone 087 9925816
French and German Grinds
Private one-to-one grinds in French and German in preparation for the Leaving Cert are available locally. Individual lessons will be tailored to each student with exam focused preparation and practice. Adult, children and teenagers – all levels welcome and the grinds will cover speaking, grammar, vocabulary, and writing.
Enrolment is now open for the new academic year. There are a limited number of places available with an experienced foreign language teacher. To enrol or to have any other question answered you are asked to phone, WhatsApp or text 089 488 5679.
Citizens Information Service
Our Age Friendly drop-in clinic is available weekly on Tuesdays from 1:30pm-3:30pm. Please note commencing September 1st 2026 the time will change to 2pm-4pm weekly. No appointment is necessary. Should you require further details, please telephone 0818 07 5890.
Championship Updates
This past weekend was another poor one for the senior footballers in our community. The previous weekend the Rathcline team were relegated to Intermediate when they drew with Mullinalaghta. This past Friday proved a mirror image with St. Faithleach’s being relegated to Intermediate level having suffered a defeat by Clan na Gael in their playoff game in Kiltoom. Both club will now have to regroup and come out stronger than ever for next year’s league and championship and regain their senior status as soon as humanly possible.
On Sunday morning last the Rathcline Ladies team played their Junior semi-final against Ballymahon. Following a tight and tense game our ladies came out on the wrong side of the scoreline with Ballymahon/Forney emerging winners by 3 points.
Create lasting memories before the summer becomes a memory.
Don’t let this season pass without availing of 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.
On the trip you will hear about the history of Upper Lough Ree.
This trip is perfect for families, couples, and groups.
Check John out at https://www.loughReeBoatingandWalkingTours.ie
Roscommon Association London
We received a reminder last week to begin making preparation for the Roscommon Association London, Annual Dinner Dance that will take place on Saturday 24th October in the Clayton Hotel, Chiswick, London. The drinks reception will take place at 6.30pm and the dinner will be served 7.30pm. Further information and books can be made by contacting roscommonassoclondon@gmail.com
Athlone and Midland Samaritans
Athlone Samaritans need additional volunteers to maintain their 24Hr free befriending service. Could you be a Samaritan volunteer? No experience or qualification needed as we will train, mentor and support you. If you think you might be interested please call or text John 087 7176168 or email athlone.branchrecruitment@samaritans.org Samaritans provide 24hr emotional support on Freecall 116123.
Rathcline 50/50 Draw
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 14th September was for a pool that amounted to €676. The winning ticket was in the name of the Peter Nolan, Derryadd, Killashee. 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.
St. Faithleach’s Lottery
The bi-weekly St. Faithleach’s Lottery took place on Tuesday last 15th September in the clubhouse for a jackpot of €2,900. The numbers drawn were 4, 19, 22 and 26. There was no winner of the jackpot and the pool will rise to €3,000 for the next draw on Tuesday 29th September. The winner of the €200 prize draw was Helen O’Donnell. Tickets are on sale at all local outlets and we urge your support.
€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 hit its upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers that €15,000 there still there and you have a chance of being the winner of the €15,000. The next draw takes place on Tuesday 29th September for the jackpot of €15,000 and if it is not won on the 22nd September. 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 15th September were 4, 6, 26 and 28. The winner of the €50 prize was Philomena Walsh, Rathcline Road and the three winners of the €20 prizes were Mary Rooney, Rathcline, Mary Feeney, Knock and Peter Skelly, Rathcline. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the current jackpot of €15,000 takes place on Tuesday 29th September and the draw takes 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.
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.
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
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.
Ballyleague Hall caretaker
Liam Garvey is caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
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
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.
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.
Gambling Anonymous
Meetings for those with problems with gambling take place in in the Family Centre, Longford (at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral) on Tuesdays at 8pm.
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.
Parish Funeral Ministry: An introduction course commences on Wednesday 30th September, starting at 7.30pm. The course will continue on Wednesday 7th and 14th October. Two parishioners who are involved in liturgy preparations are invited to attend. Please let Fr. Turlough know by contacting him on 087 9972250 or turlough.baxter@gmail.com
Legion of Mary Pilgrimage: The Annual Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 27th September. A bus will leave from Lanesboro at 9am. To book a seat you should contact Peter 087 6613510, Ursula 087 9016062, or Kitty 086 0405621.
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 October.
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
The Holy Rosary: Every Saturday at 12 noon for the month of October the Holy Rosary will be said at the statue of Our Lady of Fatima in Cloontuskert cemetery. October is the month of the Rosary and everyone is welcome to go along and join in.
New Hall Caretaker sought : We thank Liam Garvey for the wonderful service he rendered for the past number of months. We are currently looking for a new caretaker for Ballyleague Hall. It is a part-time position involving a few hours a week. The role entails taking hall bookings; setting up for events, ordering oil fills etc. Assistance would be given to whoever takes over the role. If you are interested in this position or if you have any queries please contact Brenda Reynolds at 086 8896 969 or Fr. Dan.
Station Masses: The Station Masses will commence in September. The Station Masses were a great success in February and we are looking forward to a greater celebration in September. If anyone would like to have their area’s Station Mass in their home could they get in contact with Fr. Dan to arrange a convenient date?
On Thursday 24th September Station Mass will take place in Curraghroe church at 7pm for the townlands of Doughill, Culleenoria, Tullyvarron, and Killavacken.
Kilgefin/Scramogue Choir: The excellent Kilgefin/Scramogue choir and guests are performing at a fund raising concert in aid of Zoe Cryan and Hannah Victory in St. Coman’s Church C.O.I. Henry Street, Roscommon on Friday next 25th September at 7.30pm. Please come and support two worthy causes. Donation will be taken at the door on the night.
2025 Accounts: Overall, the finances of the parish and parish hall continue to be kept at break-even annually. Copies of the end of year accounts for 2025 are available at the back of the church.
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.
Jubilee of Marriages: Couples celebrating their Silver, Ruby, Golden, Diamond, Platinum or other wedding anniversaries are invited to attend one of two Jubilee Masses, along with their families and friends on either Sunday 4th October at 2.30pm in Ballaghaderreen Cathedral or Sunday 11th October at 2.30pm in Kiltoom Church. Bishop Kevin will celebrate both Masses. Light refreshments will be served afterwards for all in attendance. As each couple celebrating an Anniversary will receive a certificate from Bishop Kevin, they are asked to register their details at www.achonryelphin.ie
St. Joseph’s Young Adult Community: The Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin invites applications from young people aged 18 to 30 years who wish to live at St. Joseph’s Young Adult Community, an international faith community in Sligo town, while going about their regular work or study in Sligo. To apply, email Sinead: youth@achonryelphin.ie for further information search www.achonryelphin.ie
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
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.