Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Exciting news breaking
Since the closure, many years ago, of the Lough Ree Arms and the Sliabh Bán Hotels in Lanesboro and Ballyleague there has always been a local comment that our community was in bad need of a hotel but, in truth, during the intervening years, despite the great work of many people, there was no development in the community to warrant a hotel or so investors thought. It was always felt during that time that we needed to attract a business before we could warrant a hotel but the announcement on Tuesday came as a big surprise.
In recent times and as the community continues to get busier the need for a hotel has grown greatly and the call from local people wanting to celebrate occasions and those that suffered bereavements and wanted to remember their departed on local home soil has grown louder and louder.
On Tuesday last during a Shannonside FM visit to Barley Harbour and Newtowncashel and during the conversation Cllr. Martin Skelly announced that there would be a planning application going into Longford County Council towards the end of October for a Boutique Hotel and apartments, that will include a bar, restaurant and function room on the site of the old Lough Ree Arms Hotel. This announcement shows the confidence that the investors see in our community and we hope that their confidence will be rewarded a thousand fold.
This is an amazing and hugely exciting time for our community as we have been progressively getting busier in recent times and this year alone without bed space, apart from the few Airbnb premises in the community we have welcomed The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, The GaelForce Swim weekend, the Two Provinces Triathlon, the King of the Lake fishing competition, the week-long Lanesboro Heritage Exhibition, and the ESB & BnM Reconnection and Recollection Day along with the busier than normal river traffic and the enormous amount of visitors that visited daily during the wonderful summer.
I’m sure that the hotel will complement the proposals that we are hearing from Cllr. Sean Mimnagh regarding many other proposed developments for Lanesboro such as the proposed Community Centre and other uses being proposed for the 6 acres site in what was known as the Sisters of Mercy field behind the old convent. We definitely will need a hotel and there is no doubt that with all the listed activity in and around the community, now it is the time to be investing in Lanesboro and Ballyleague.
With an increased interest in the proposed amazing boardwalk, the new walkway/cycleway (almost completed) and the November launch of the proposed one-town project by Colm Croffy this community is going forward at a pace we have not seen since the 1950’s with the arrival of Bord na Mona and ESB and we can say that the hotel is the missing ingredient towards people staying in our community..
These are hugely exciting times in our community and only hope that more investors and entrepreneurs will see the full merits of Lanesboro/Ballyleague and all the work done and the exciting opportunities that they can avail of in Lanesboro and Ballyleague.
New ESB book launched on Thursday last
ESB Lanesborough Station; the people who powered it”, was lunched on Thursday last in Lanesboro Parish Hall to a very large audience. It is really a very impressive book and one that will take you through the generations since the first sod was turned on the first station in 1957. Turning back the clock was really in vogue on Thursday when following introductory speeches it was left to the man that was there for the turning of the first sod and to oversee its building, A hale and hearty 99 year old Jerry Crean who arrived in Lanesboro in March of 1955 from ESB HQ in Dublin as site officer to oversee the building of the new power station was in situ on Thursday to officially launch the book.
We have to be full of praise to John Loughlin and Brendan Whitty for their excellent work in preparing and having this outstanding book published. This is a book for everyone as the vast array of Brendan Whitty’s photographs that are included will bring memories flooding back to all of us that knew people working in the power station and indeed help recall great memories.
The book is available in O’Brien’s price at €20.
Calling all Business and Property owners
All business owners and Property owners in the parishes of Kilgefin (Ballyleague) and Rathcline (Lanesboro) are invited to St. Faithleach’s clubhouse on Tuesday night next 13th October for an 8pm start. The reason for the meeting is to inform you and seek your views of the One-Town project that is being proposed and this ‘Reimagining Workshop’ will inform you of the work done so far as well as allow you to offer your thoughts that may go into the plan for the area that is currently being drawn up.
Charity Bingo on Thursday night
On this Thursday night 8th October there will be a Charity Bingo Night in Ballyleague Hall in memory of the late Patricia Manning with all proceeds of the night going to charity. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm. You are encouraged to go along and support what promises to be a great night. There will be lots of prizes to be won on the night.
Lanesboro Tri club on the move
Moving into a new home for a family is a wonderful feeling for everyone but can you imagine a club the size of Lanesboro Triathlon Club with well over 100 members and the excitement they felt after having their very first training session in their very own new clubhouse.
Being the first Triathlon Club in the country to have its own gym and premises on Lanesboro’s Main Street they again stand alone as the have their very own training centre and clubhouse.
The building, formerly known as the tomato shed, is situated just past Lanesboro Primary School and it has been renovated since they were awarded the building following a hand over of the premises to Longford Co. Co. from ESB.
What is truly amazing is that Lanesboro Triathlon Club founded just 16 years ago has progressed so amazingly far to be one of the leading Tri clubs in the country. Club members have represented the club and Ireland all over the country and the world which is truly amazing. The have ran the hugely successful Two Provinces and Friday evening Kidathon almost since their inception and almost every year it has been designated as part of the National Series. Back in 2019 they achieved the ultimate national accolade when they were awarded Club of the Year so they are a club that does not stand admiring their laurels but are always looking to what they can do and achieve next.
To have so much space for its members, this facility stands out as a unique building in our community and it creates another landmark for Lanesboro’s Triathlon club as they continue to grow and develop themselves.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Connaughton family, formerly of Main Street on the death at Connolly Hospital, Dublin, of Michael (Mick) Sweeney, Leixlip, Co. Kildare and formerly of Aughavadden, Newtowncashel. Mick died on Monday 21st September and was laid to rest in Confey Cemetery following his Funeral Mass at the Church of St. Charles Borromeo, Confey
Thank You
St Faithleach’s GAA would like to say a big thank you for the success of our recent coffee morning in the club house for Mayo Roscommon Hospice. We would like to thank all who dropped off food, supported the event and made a financial contribution. We were able to lodge €1845.00 to this very worthy cause.
St. Mary’s Secondary School Ballyleague
Over the past number of weeks during the collection of photos and memorabilia for the BnM and ESB Recollection and Rembering Day there was great talk and kinship with a number of people about St. Mary’s Secondary School in Ballyleague. Fr Tonra and Fr. Foy were the leading figures in the school where many remarkable results and achievements were recorded.
I never remembered the school had a blazer and a crest and if anyone had a photograph of the blazer or crest I would be delighted to see it. I would be particularly interested in finding out the number of years that the school was in Ballyleague and if possible to get a roll of the students that attended a list of the teachers and a copy of the crest.
The history of St. Mary’s Ballyleague should never be forgotten and for so many of our residents they have no idea that the school ever existed it would be a very interesting history for our community to have and to make sure that we never ever forget the enormous successes of the students and its contribution and impact in our community during its existence.
LCC Open Day
Lanesboro Community with its new Principal and Vice-Principal will host its Open Day on Thursday 22nd October for prospective new students. This is an ideal opportunity for parents and prospective students to go along to the school and witness what is happening class wise and talk to the students and the teachers on the benefit of attending Lanesboro Community 1
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Bernie and Johnny Hanley, Corrigeen, Tommy and Carmel O’Donoghue, Strokestown Rd., the extended O’Donoghue family and especially their sister Kathleen on the unexpected death of Kathleen’s son Clarence Farrell, Kells, Co. Meath. Clarence was predeceased by his father Vincent. His Funeral Mass took place at St. James’ Church, Athboy, followed by cremation service in Lakelands Crematorium Cavan.
St. Faithleach’s Celebrate
A great night was held last Saturday 26th September for our three local superstars – Ellen Irwin, Sophie Cox and Phoebe Ryan. These ladies have made their families, club, parish and county very proud when they played a major part in winning the U16 and Senior All-Irelands. The St. Faithleach’s club organised a night to honour the three ladies and it was a proud night celebrating and honouring three very special ladies. For counties such as ours it is not very often we can acknowledge an All-Ireland champion but to be honouring three champions we are truly very excited. Congratulations once again ladies and may you have many more successes.
Where To From Here
Roscommon School Leaver Information Fair will be held in the Abbey Hotel Roscommon on this Thursday 8th October from 11.30am to 3.00pm. This is a drop in event for young people with disabilities & their families to gain information from different providers & services to help make an informed decision about post school options in Co Roscommon. For further info please contact: disabilitydayservices.cho2@hse.ie
Fundraising Gala Night
Roscommon Drama Group (RDG) invites you to an elegant evening of entertainment, beginning with a complimentary glass of wine as you relax & enjoy the music of Cór Comáin. Then Roscommon Drama Group presents “Dead Man’s Bells” directed by Margaret Madden. This dark comedy explores the theme of family secrets. This is an opportunity for you to support RDG as they embark on their journey around the country with this production as part of the Drama Circuit. The evening will take place on Thursday 15th Oct. in Roscommon Art Centre at 8pm.
Disability Job & Training Fair
A Disability job & Training Fair takes place in Kilbride Community Centre, Four Mile House, on the 20th October. It will be an opportunity to meet with employers, training providers and local support groups. For more info call 087 1080192.
The Joker reaches €4,300
The excitement of the St. Faithleach’s Joker fundraiser in continuing to grow as the money for the cut of the Joker on Saturday night next will rise to €4,300. Again, the cut misses the Joker on Saturday night last 3rd October 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 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 €4,300 from the remaining 30 cards on Saturday night next 10th October in the St. Faithleach’s clubhouse.
The €100 draw took place and the two winners of last Saturday’s draw winners, 3rd October were Claire Corcoran and John Loughlin
Be in with your chance to have a cut for the Joker by buying tickets online on the ClubSpot portal St. Faithleach’s
Rathcline 50/50 Draw
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 28th September was for a pool that amounted to €700. The winning ticket was in the name of the Liam & Pat Connerton, Aughamore. 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.
€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 13th October for the jackpot of €15,000 and if it is not won on the 6th October. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to get hold of the full €15,000 or share in the money. The numbers drawn in the last draw on Tuesday 29th September were 5, 13, 17 and 25. The winner of the €50 prize was Kasia Kavanagh, Rathcline Road, and the three winners of the €20 prizes were Martina O’Brien, Corner Shop, Pat Connerton c/o XLNTEE and Eileen Mullen c/o XLNTEE. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the current jackpot of €15,000 takes place on Tuesday 6th October 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.
Lanesboro ICA
Lotto
Our lotto was held in Granard on Wednesday last for a jackpot of €1,800, numbers drawn were 6,16,21,22 and we had no jackpot winner. The three lucky dips winners were Frank McMahon, Janette Forde and James Campbell, congratulations to all and thank you for supporting our lotto. Our next draw will take place on Wednesday October 14thwhen the jackpot will be €1,850, thanks to the guilds for hosting and to all who continue to support our lotto.
October Walk
Our October walk will take place on Sunday October 18th when we will take to Newcastle Wood in Ballymahon, time of meeting to be confirmed.
Cookery Cup
Our annual cookery cup will take place on Tuesday October 20th in ICA HQ, details of dishes are in the calendar, all dishes to be on the table at 7.15pm please. We will have a talk on cyber security on the night as well so hopefully we will see you all on the night. Each guild is asked to bring a plate of goodies for the cuppa please, we will have the cuppa at 7.30 with the talk starting at 8pm.
Longford Weekend in An Grianán
Longford Weekend 14th – 16th May 2027. If you are interested in attending this weekend please contact me with your name and telephone number, room type(are you willing to share) 1st , 2nd and 3rd choice of course. Possible courses (subject to numbers and subject to change) are Brazilian embroidery, Ribbon embroidery, Pottery, Jewellery making, Relax and Recharge. Deposit €70.00. Contact Catherine Gallagher 086 3435747 or cg.ntc.ie@gmail.com
Knit and Stitch Show
This year’s knit and stitch show take place from November 12th to 15th and if we have enough interest ICA will run a bus on Saturday the 14th, if you are interested in attending please let Virginia Quigley know by text only please on 086 2036542 as always you book your own entry ticket to the show.
Classes in HQ
Tuesday Pilates with Regina 6pm
Thursday Chairobics with Regina 12.30 to 1.30pm
Friday Craft morning 11am to 2pm
Saturday Crochet class with Virginia 4 to 6pm.
Guild meeting
Our next meeting takes place on Wednesday October 14th in the Parish Hub at 8pm with new and returning members always welcome
Caretaker/General Maintenance Position
Cloontuskert N.S., Ballagh N.S., and Ballyleague are seeking to employ a caretaker to carry our general caretaking, outdoor cleaning and maintenance duties across the three schools, 6 hours per week in each school. Flexible working arrangements. This position is to be taken up as soon as possible. You are invited to send a letter to The Chairperson, Cloontuskert NS, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon N39 AT80 on or before this Wednesday 7th October at 3pm.
Out of Luck
The St. Faithleach’s U18 ladies played their county final on Saturday last in their club grounds on Saturday last. Unfortunately, it was not to be their day but reaching a county U18 final is mean achievement and it goes to show the progression that the Ladies are displaying and it shows a great future for them in the years ahead as the progress to the senior ranks.
Roscommon Special Olympics – Buzzin for half a Dozen!!
And so, the countdown is on, after the memories, laughter, tears, determination, teamwork and the wonderful support of previous years, it’s time to do it all over again! Roscommon Special Olympics versus Roscommon Gardaí 2026. The game will be held on Friday next, 9th October, with a kick-off at 7.00pm at Roscommon Community Sports Park, Lisnamult. And this year Roscommon Special Olympics are Buzzin for half a dozen as they are going for six wins in a row.
This however is a night about so much more than football. It is about ability pride, friendship, inclusion, determination and community. We will also celebrate the wonderful achievements of our Special
Olympics athletes throughout the year and recognise the hard work and dedication of our amazing athletes and coaches. What an amazing year it has been for Roscommon Special Olympics, nine our athletes qualifying for the National Games last June and four more athletes taking part in “Beyond the Waves” European Swimming Championships in Malta in September. But, beyond all these wonderful stories and remarkable success, training has continued in the background, and our thoughts now turn to our yearly showcase event. Word coming from both training camps is that training has been going well and that Roscommon
Gardaí are adamant that the 6-match winning streak will be halted this year. There is even talk of a few new signings on the Garda team!!
An incredibly special part of the evening will once again be the presentation of the Maire Allen Memorial Cup. Maura holds a special place in our hearts, and we are privileged to keep her memory alive through this wonderful event.
We could not hold this event without the incredible support of An Garda Síochána Roscommon. A huge thank you to all the Gardaí who take part, support the event and help make the night so special every year. Huge gratitude in particular must go to Garda Kelley Doolan, Sgt Ronan O’Meara and Supt. David Cryan. A special thank you, also, to the Roscommon Sports Park Committee, Lisnamult Residents Association and Martin Hannon Roscommon Sports Partnership for their unwavering support as always. We are also hugely grateful to our wonderful Special Olympics volunteers, coaches, parents, caregivers, sponsors, friends and supporters. Your time, energy and commitment mean more than words
can say.
So, Roscommon… we need you! Bring your family. Bring your friends. Bring your loudest voices! Come along and support both teams for a fantastic night of football, entertainment, and laughter and community spirit.
And who knows… maybe this really will be the year of the Gardaí! Time will tell.
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. Tickets are on sale in O’Brien’s.
Annual Dinner Dance
Recognised as the event of the year the PTAA Annual Dinner Dance will take place in the Rustic Inn, Abbeyshrule on Friday 16th October. The music will be provided by the very popular Seamus Farrell. There will be spot prizes galore to be won on the night. The dinner will take place at 7.30pm. Tickets costing just €35 are available in O’Brien’s or from Breda Moran, Carraroe.
Amanda’s Camino Challenge
Amanda Wallace, daughter of Paddy and Helen (nee Gill) Wallace, Curraghroe, is raising funds by doing a Camino Challenge to raise funds for the Irish Hospice Foundation. Posters with a QR code are to be seen on many businesses local and you are asked to scan the code and make a donation towards her fundraising goal of €2,000.
Every donation, no matter the amount, helped provide vital hospice care and support for families across Ireland.
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
October Services for St. John’s and St. Coman’s
Sunday, 11th October in St. John’s, Lanesborough there will be a Celebration of Harvest at 3.00pm – Visiting speaker Rachel Cox, Agricultural Chaplain for the Diocese. Please note – no morning service
Sunday 18th October St Coman’s, Roscommon: Holy Communion Service at 11:30
Sunday 25th October St. John’s, Lanesborough Holy Communion Service at 11.30am.
Advance notice – 18th Oct in Boyle Church of Ireland – Agricultural Chaplaincy Harvest Celebration from 4pm – Panel Discussion with Special Guests – food, music and a warm welcome!
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.
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 is welcome to attend.
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.
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 the time change to 2pm-4pm weekly. No appointment is necessary. Should you require further details, please telephone 0818 07 5890.
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.
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.
Lanesboro Library
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.
Caretaker/General Maintenance Position
Cloontuskert N.S., Ballagh N.S., and Ballyleague are seeking to employ a caretaker to carry our general caretaking, outdoor cleaning and maintenance duties across the three schools, 6 hours per week in each school. Flexible working arrangements are available. This position is to be taken up as soon as possible. You are invited to send a letter to The Chairperson, Cloontuskert NS, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon N39 AT80 on or before this Wednesday 7th October at 3pm.
Station Masses: The Station Masses will continue this Thursday evening 8th October in Curraghroe Church at 7pm for the townlands of Kilmacanny, Trilamartin, Granahan, Granahanmartin and Triladillon.
On Friday 9th October at the home of Pat Gill the Station Mass for Weakfield will take place in the home of Pat Gill.
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 next 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
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
Retreat: Medjugorje weekend Retreat led by Fr. Jason Lewis (Medjugorje Chaplain) in St. John’s Day Care Centre, Knock Shrine, from Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th October. Booking is essential, for more info contact Nicola 087 9622800.