Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Defibrillator Group in Ballyleague
Maciek Koczur is a Supervisor Paramedic at Roscommon Ambulance Station with 20 years’ experience in the Emergency Services. Maciek’s phone number is 085 1581419.
Along with his family he moved to Ballyleague just over four years ago where he has become a very popular figure and valuable member of the community. He is now setting up a defibrillator group for Ballyleague. The goal is to develop it into a Cardiac First Responder (CFR) Group to provide fast help during cardiac emergencies in the village.
Maciek is looking for a few people who might be interested in joining a committee to help making the project work.
He is anxious to hear from anyone interested and he would also like that everyone that reads this would share it on their Social media platforms.
Una says Thank You
The recently retirement, after more than 30 years, of Una Clarke from Lanesboro Ballyleague Credit Union brought a great outpouring of accolades to Una for her contribution to the community for such a long time. Una asked that she be afforded the opportunity to sincerely thank everyone for all the well wishes, thoughtful cards and gifts she received on her retirement.
She acknowledges that she has been truly grateful to have worked alongside and served such kind and supportive people over the 30 years. She again thanks everyone and would like to wish everyone a healthy and happy future.
Lough Ree Boating & Walking Tours
Over the past number of weeks I had been speaking to John Sorohan about a new venture that he was in the process of developing. Last Saturday, while both of us were on Triathlon duty, John told me that the licencing of his boat had just come through and he was now in a position to advertise his new business. John is launching Lough Ree Boating and Walking Tours. His new boat is a silent electric boat and I believe it is an incredible boat to be in that not even the ducks on the river can hear it coming. The trips on the boat will take place north of Lanesboro Bridge and the boat has the capacity to hold 6 people. The meeting point will be at the Lough Ree Distillery office at the turn into the car park. If you would like to go on this exciting and historical trip you can contact John at 085 838 8484. We wish John every success in this his new venture and I am sure it will on to be a great success.
Thank You
The Rathcline Cemetery committee would like to thank everyone for their generous donations towards the upkeep of the cemetery at the recent Rathcline Cemetery Sunday and Blessing of Graves.
Championship Time
The commencement of the Peter Hanley sponsored Longford GAA Championship crept up and took us by surprise when it started on Friday evening last. On Saturday evening last Rathcline had their first evening out when they travelled to Longford Slashers grounds in Farneyhoogan to renew rivalries with St. Columba’s, Mullinalaghta. Underdogs going into the game Rathcline show scant respect to the overwhelming favourites with a superb first half performance. Mullinalaghta as is their wont came storming back but on this occasion Rathcline were not to be outdone and held on for a terrific 2 point win.
On Friday next 25th July they will travel to Keenan Park Ardagh for their next round of the Championship where they will take on Abbeylara at 8pm.
Let’s Walk
As you already know Ann Farrell came to live in Lanesboro when she bought a house a few years ago in Cnoc na Gaoithe. Instantly, she became a part of our community and became widely known for her remarkable spirit, friendliness and warmth. Unfortunately, Ann passed away 9 months ago much to everyone’s great sadness.
On Sunday next 27th July a Charity Walk in memory of Ann has been organised and it will take place in Lanesboro. The walk while remembering Ann will be a fundraiser to raise funds for the Roscommon Mayo Hospice. The Hospice Care attended to Ann throughout her illness and they dealt with her so compassionately. For everyone that knew Ann and even those that the Roscommon Mayo Hospice has cared for a family member are invited to come along, participate and give your support by encouraging family and friends to come along and join in this very commendable fundraiser.
Contributions can be made on the day or at this GoFundMe link https://gofund.me/a98d4a7d
As we all remember, Ann loved walking and nature and her favourite walk was down to the bog walk when she could watch and appreciate all the nature around her and the changing landscape. The walk will start from the Rathcline GAA club grounds into Clonbonny and to the bog walk. There will be an option of two walking distances of 5km or the longer loop of 11km. The walk will commence at 12noon.
Come along and keep the wonderful legacy of Ann’s live alive while also supporting a very special cause the Roscommon Mayo Hospice.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Mrs Mary Agnes Flynn, The Green, and her family on the death of her late husband Seamus’s brother J.J. Flynn, Mullingar on Saturday 12th July.
Defence Forces Exercises
Óglaigh na hÉireann, The Irish Army, over Tuesday and Wednesday last held a Defence Forces Exercise at the power station site using both the station structures and the ground around the site. There was a lot of loud noises and the sounds of gunshots during the exercise. Although they were firing their guns it is important to note that they were using blank rounds and nobody was in any danger. During the evening soldiers could be seen on the roof of the power station ensuring that all area of the power station site was being used.
From time to time in the recent past there have been exercises also taking place by the fire service as part of their on-going and progression training for the fire service.
Following on from the exercises
It is fabulous to see that the station is fulfilling some uses as we await decisions from ESB as to their exact intentions with the power station. We do know that they intend to place a battery storage facility at the back end of the site.
Surely the massive footprint of the power station could be converted into a site for a major company to be sited on the ground creating a large number of jobs that will fulfil the needs of not only the locality but also the country by taking jobs away from cities. There is also a major site owned by Energy Company Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) adjacent to the power station site that also has no present or long term proposal for development
Rural Ireland is being devastated by the lack of jobs that is clear to be seen day after day and with the Government/ESB owning such a valuable job creation site it is a no brainer to use Government land to create jobs. The land bank owned by semi state bodies Bord na Mona and ESB in and around Lanesboro Ballyleague makes it an attractive location for job creation and there should be a Government led financial incentive to create employment and to help revive all the surrounding communities.
Many times on these notes I have said that there are many golden opportunities being proposed by very industrious and learned people and these proposals should be listened to with the most viable identified to be commenced immediately while the rest should be used for the continued growth of the community. Our community is not short of brilliant people from our own gene pools that went away for education and seen what the world has to offer and in recent years some brilliant minds have come to live in and around our community. Those away from home are now coming back to in their own words is “the Jewel in the Crown” taking their learning with them and proposing new and inventive ideas that can bring employment back to our community. Far be it for me to be judge of their proposals but having seen almost all you cannot but be excited by their foresight and abilities for such wonderful and strategic proposals.
Lanesboro since the early 50’s has been a major job hub for the counties of Longford, Roscommon and south Leitrim and it is time that we should once again be the job hub for major development. The younger people are currently leaving our areas in huge numbers for education, travel and self-betterment but unlike the past they now have nothing to come home to and no place to raise their families. They have to stay away and mostly it is away out of the Ireland as it is so expensive to buy properties in the major towns and cities hence it is not just our community that is at a loss but our country. Decimation is the most frequent word being used in relation to successive Governments and their attitude to us and to rural Ireland in general. In the past the Greens want us all to live in towns but there are neither properties nor jobs and if anyone was lucky enough to see a property in a town, there is no job creation to tempt anyone to buy an inflated priced property in any town so their proposal holds no water.
Former resident passes away
Known for his quiet and gentle manner we were very saddened to learn of the death at Sonas Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague on Saturday 5th July of Michael Mulcahy. His late parents Paddy and Nora lived on the Green and Michael he had only to cross the road to be in the Boy’s School on the Green such was their proximity to the school. Michael was also predeceased by his sister Margaret. He was always a quiet mannered and well-spoken lad who was always popular with his contemporaries. His gentle nature endeared him to all of us. The family then moved to Cloontuskert from where Michael finished his schooling and moved into the workforce. A number of years later we used to meet in Roscommon Town where Michael, his wife and children were living. Time changed nothing as his gentle nature and easy going manner were still clearly evident and he loved to chat about the old times of living in Lanesboro and Cloontuskert. His passing will sadden many hearts locally as well as the hearts of his family. Michael reposed in Smyth’s Funeral Home on Tuesday 8th July before being removed to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Roscommon Town. A private cremation took place following the Mass of the Resurrection on Wednesday.
To his wife Mary, his daughter Jennifer, his son Alan, his brother Patrick, his sisters Nora, Maria and Nuala, grandchildren Ellie and Jamie, relatives and friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Outstanding Success
During a conversation on Saturday last when discussing the Local Link Bus Service that runs from Longford to Roscommon and back to Longford I was informed that this 426 bus route has proven to be remarkably successful. Such has been its success that at present there is an on-going conversation as to whether a second bus is required for the route. At the half way point in Lanesboro it is always amazing to see on a daily basis the amount of people using the bus in both directions. It is incredible to think the a bus passes through Lanesboro Monday to Friday 14 times, 7 times each way, on Saturday 16 times, 8 times each way and on Sunday 8 times, 4 times each way and it is so busy that a second bus is in consideration. One thing must be said about this bus route is that you can set your clock by as invariable every time it is due it arrives almost to the dot of time.
We must say full credit to all the people of all the communities along the route for embracing the opportunity to use the bus as often as they do.
At present we are awaiting new timetables with proposed extra stops also being considered as well as the extra bus.
We have every reason to be proud in making such a success of the Local Link bus.
Gun Club
Memberships: The annual membership subscriptions are now due for the forthcoming season. Please contact a member of the committee for assistance with same.
Clays: Practice continues every Saturday evening and Sunday morning. There was a good turnout from the club at the recent Ballinasloe sporting event.
Visit Corlea this summer
As we are deep into the holiday season and visitors arriving on our doorstep there is one jewel in particular in our crown that should be availed of and that is the true wonder: the Corlea Iron Age Roadway and Visitor Centre. Built in 148 BC, this remarkable Togher—Europe’s largest discovered—was part of a significant route way, possibly connecting the ritual centre of Uisneach to the royal site of Rathcroghan. Crafted from solid oak planks, peat quickly swallowed the Trackway, perfectly preserving it for over 2,000 years.
Step inside the visitor centre to see an 18-metre stretch of this ancient road up close! Discover our ancestors’ stories, mysteries, and incredible craftsmanship.
Right on our doorstep the fabulous Iron Age Trackway situated in Corlea just 13km (7m) from Lanesboro is beginning to gain its rightful acknowledgement as a wonderful and unique place to visit. This very unique Trackway has an 18m long section of original Trackway the largest ever discovered in Europe and it is on display at the Visitor Centre. You learn how people lived at the time and murals depict implements of the time.
This is one of Ireland’s most famous hidden treasures and it is a place that should be visited hugely and it is first place to start with your visitors to this wonderful experience.
Visiting the centre is free of charge and the excellent and knowledgeable local facilitators will bring you though the experience and leave you in awe with the history of the Trackway. The knowledge and time given by the local guides at the centre is an experience in itself.
Car Draw extended
The Club Longford Car Draw has been extended a few days and it will now take place on this coming Friday 25th July. Tickets for a Toyota RAV4, sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors, or a cash option of €50,000 cost just €20 each, 3 for €50, 7 tickets for €100 or 12 tickets for €150 and you are asked once again to be generous in your support. Tickets can be bought in O’Brien’s.
Your generous support towards the development of football in the county in all grades in both the mens men and women’s games, football and Camogie, will be greatly appreciated.
The ‘Win a Car’ draw has the first prize is a Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid, sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors. Second prize is €1,000 sponsored by Nally Brothers Ballymahon, Third Prize is also €1,000 and it is sponsored by Elgin Energy. Fourth prize is a €300 voucher for the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport sponsored by Source Technical Providers Ltd.
Rathcline on their way to the Galway Races
The annual Rathcline Race Day, sponsored by Keane’s SuperValu, Lanesboro, at the legendary Galway Races will take once again take place on Monday 28th July. There has always been a great number from the area and afar travelling to what is always a most enjoyable day at the famous Galway Races. There is an ideal opportunity for businesses and companies to avail of the opportunity to create a corporate event for a great day out for their clients and workers at the Galway Races. There is wonderful interest from so many people who have already experienced the excitement that the day has to offer and also from others that have heard of the fabulous occasion created by Rathcline. The ticket package includes Racecourse admission, complimentary car parking, champagne reception on arrival, racing tipster to aid you through the card, a Four course Gourmet Meal, complimentary wine with the meal, Afternoon Tea, Reserved table for the day. There will also be a prize for the Best dressed lady and Gent and after meal entertainment with Mickey and Duxy. There will be Tote betting facilities as well as a full bar facility.
If you would like to book or find out more information you can contact the organising committee of Liam Connerton 086 8776405; Stephen Rooney 086 3176301; Seadna Ryan 085 1595512; Pat Connerton 086 1617501 and Lorraine Farrell 087 6827966. Per person the cost of the full day package is €150 and early booking is advisable.
Longford’s Fittest Superstars
On Saturday 23rd August, Ireland’s Fittest Family coach and mentor Davy Fitzgerald comes to Longford for Longford’s Fittest Superstars. The event will take place at Longford Rugby Club from 10am and it is supporting St. Christopher’s Special School and Longford Rugby Club Sport Facility Project. Team of 4 the will consist at least 1 male and 1 female on the team. All members must be over 16 years of age. The prize pot is €5,000 with the winning team receiving €2,500, second €1,500 and 3rd €1,000. Teams will be challenged with plenty of the TV Show’s most enjoyable obstacles.
The cost of entry per team is €800 and this can be raised through sponsorship. You must fill out your registration online at https://forms.office.com/e/T5ECsmVcCn The closing date for entries is Monday next 28th July. Don’t delay make your entry and begin your preparation for a special and unique challenge.
MSc in AgInnovation.
The University of Galway is offering a unique, one-year Master’s (Level 9) for people with fresh ideas to transform rural Ireland. Open to all ages – no formal education required. Format: 2 hours/week online (Zoom) and one Saturday/month on campus. The funding is 100% for unemployed or 90% for the employed via Springboard. The deadline for application is Thursday 31st July at 5pm. There are 30 places available. To apply visit www.universityofgalway.ie and search for “Springboard”, then select MSc AgInnovation and complete registration. Those in Springboard and UCG are looking forward to receiving your application
Lyons Den After-School
Lyons Den After-School service at Ballyleague National School provides a well-balanced inclusive programme of activities for play, rest and recreational opportunities to support children’s health, well-being, learning and development. The service will run from Thursday 28th August 2025 to Friday 26th June 2025 from 2pm until 6.30pm. The service offers a Breakfast club, Arts and crafts, Sorts and games and hot food. For further information please call 01 621 5790 and applications can be made at applications@kidsinc.ie
Kilgefin Cemetery Sunday
The annual Cemetery Sunday with the Blessing of the Graves at Kilgefin cemetery will take place on Sunday 24th August at 6pm.
AGM of Ballyleague Hall committee
The AGM of the Ballyleague Hall committee will take place on Friday 25th July in Ballyleague hall at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.
Weekly Card Game
The results of Sunday night 20th July weekly card game held in Lanesboro Parish Hall is: 1st Tom Rooney & Joe Dolan, and joint second place was Jack Bannon & Tom Skelly and Harry Skelly & Fran Casey. The last game winners were Pat Joe Fallon & Tom Nohilly. Raffle winners were Gerry Leavy, Peter Donlon, Brendan Hanley and Harry Skelly. New card players will always be welcome to join in for a great night of card playing and comradery. Light refreshments as always are served.
What would you do with €15,000?
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning. For the past number of months the jackpot has reached it upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers it continues to be abatable for the person with the correct numbers. The draw for this week will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, for the wonderful prize of €15,000. Don’t miss your opportunity to get hold of the full €15,000 or share in the money.
Last week the draw took placed in O’Brien’s on Tuesday 15th July and there was no winner of the draw and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw on 22nd July. The numbers drawn were 18, 20, 21 and 29. The winner of the €50 prize was Seamus Reilly, Ballyleague c/o Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op and the three €20 winners were Eileen Mullen c/o XLNTEE, Gemma Douglas, Main Street and Eileen Plested, Cluain Dara, Ballyleague. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 22nd July. 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.
A great opportunity to visit New York
New York 2026 will welcome the Roscommon senior team travel to play New York GAA in the first round of the Connacht GAA Championship. Each year a Connacht team travels and it has become a huge social event for so many supporters and a golden opportunity for people to avail of group rates for a special trip to the Big Apple and next year it is Roscommon’s opportunity.
As part of the county trip, the St. Faithleachs GAA club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in Gaelic Park. The timing of the game is perfect as it will take place on the week ending Sunday, April 2nd (Easter Sunday). Flights would most likely be going out on the Thursday morning prior to the game and returning on the Monday night after. The club have received provisional prices for the trip from a travel agent and the prices are coming in at approximately €1400 per person sharing. Other prices for more than two in a room will also be available to those requiring same. The price will include flights, centrally located hotel and transfers from and to the airport. Match tickets are not included. Booking this special trip would involve paying a deposit directly to the travel agent and the remainder closer to the flight date.
The club is looking for approximate number of people that are intending to go. If you are considering travelling or intend going you are asked to contact Jimmy Mangan on 086 8177915 or Michael Cleary on 087 2238293 with your name and the names of your intended travellers. More details will become available when the game date is confirmed.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 14th July for a jackpot of €563. The winner of the draw was Caroline Ginty, Curraghrua who was the winner of the €563. As usual the winning cheque can always be collected in O’Brien’s.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is greatly appreciated, and your great support is highlighted by the large pools every week – thank you.
This Wednesday in the Library
It is with a great sense of pride that we, once again, welcome back two of Lanesboro’s literary sons Colin Carberry and Jack Harte to Lanesboro Library on this Wednesday 23rd July from 6pm. Both men will be reading from their extensive collection of work. A number of times the library has welcomed both Colin and Jack throughout the years and it is always a wonderful and a very special occasion to have both men back and reading from their work collections. As with both men they are also excellent at recalling tales of their own times past and memories in our community.
You can register for all library events in the library or online by visiting www.longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
A Career in Nursing
Start your journey with Galway and Roscommon ETB’s Access Route to Nursing, in partnership with Atlantic Technological University. The course takes place at GRETB Castlerea Training Centre, Co. Roscommon – with expert educators supporting you every step of the way. Join others who’ve taken this path – and access nursing with GRETB today. Tel: 1800 140 242 or Email: guidance@gretb.ie
Percy French Festival:
The 17th annual Percy French Festival takes place on 23rd, 24th and 25th July this year at Castlecoote House, Co. Roscommon, with a stellar line-up of speakers and musicians. This is a celebration of the enduring legacy of Percy French, the renowned songwriter, artist and humourist. Castlecoote House is the home of this annual festival where there will be three days of perceptive lectures and absorbing discussions. As usual there will be a host of noted speakers and performers. For more information you are asked to visit the website www.percyfrench.ie
Adventure Races
Bóthar na Naomh Adventure Races will take place in Cloone, Co. Leitrim on Saturday week 2nd August. This is an adventure race with a difference. It’s a race where fun and pure hardship are guaranteed, and the aim is to provide a high standard race that should attract beginners to elite racers. This will be an ideal way to challenge yourself against the challenges of the race. There will also be a Duathlon as part of the day’s events. Registration will open at 9am on the day with the Youth 5k Adventure Run (7-16 years) starting at 10am. The adults 5km Adventure Run will commence at 11am with the Duathlon commencing at 11.30. The Duathlon is for those over 18 years. The entry fees are: Duathlon €50, €25 for the adult 5km race and €10 for the U16 race.
Ballinamuck Social Dancing & Community Gathering
The next Social evening takes place this Sunday, July 27th from 5 to 7 pm in the ’98 Memorial Hall, Ballinamuck Village (N39 Y7C1)
The music will be provided by Michael Cleary and Jacqui Bannon
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.
National Grandparents Pilgrimage
Join the National Grandparents Pilgrimage at Knock Shrine on Sunday next 27th July, celebrating the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Grandparents, families and all the faithful are invited to this joyful celebration. The day includes Anointing of the Sick in the Basilica at 2.30pm; Mass at 3pm, and rosary procession (weather permitting).
Pilgrimage to Lough Derg
The annual one-day pilgrimage to Lough Derg will take place on Sunday 24th August with a bus leaving Kenagh at 6.30am and picking up passengers en route to Lanesboro and Ballyleague arriving at 7am. All enquiries and bookings should be directed to Mary at 043 33 21969.
Lanesboro Library
Library Groups
Knitting & Crochet group meet every Tuesday 2-4pm.
Poetry & Music circle meet on 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 4–5.30pm.
Summer Stars
Summer Stars returns once again!
Call into the library to register for this summers’ reading challenge and your chance to win lots of wonderful prizes!
Upcoming Children’s Events
Kids Movie Club continuing every Saturday for the Summer
On Tuesday 29th July there will be a Tote Bag Design for 6+years
Celebrating Lanesboro’s Literary Links
The library welcomes back two of Lanesboro’s literary giants Colin Carberry and Jack Harte to Lanesboro Library on this Wednesday 23rd July from 6pm. Both will be reading from their extensive collection of work. We have welcomed Colin and Jack at the library many times throughout the years and it is always a wonderful occasion.
You can register for all library events in the library or online by visiting longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Join the local Fire Service
There is a great need for the numbers employed as local fire-fighters at Lanesboro Fire Station. If you work or live locally and feel you can be at the fire station with a short reaction time then come along and enrol for the training programme and assessment. The training is wide and varied and following the intensive training your qualification will be recognised as a medical responder where they can provide first aid until medical support arrives and the training enables you to be capable of making lifesaving interventions. Some can even go forward for training to be recognised as first responders. The training can be a springboard to many great things. Looking at the development of the local brigade staff over the years you see a remarkable comradery and their abilities continue outside of the fire station environment.
Living in the parishes of Rathcline and Kilgefin or the western side of Killashee you should be within the required time.
Lanesboro Fire Station is looking for a number people male and female to make applications to Longford County Council Fire Department. The stipulation is that you live or work within a quick response time from time alert from the fire station on the Longford Road means there are lots of younger and stronger young men and ladies well capable of doing this great community work. This is a wonderful opportunity for so many people living on both sides of the bridge and the hinterlands.
Full training will be given to all those that pass the interview and a warm welcome will be given to all the new recruits. The job of as a fire-fighter requires those applying to be adaptable and those selected will receive a good remuneration and as well will be part of a dedicated team of local fire-fighters.
To apply you should email hrrecruitment@longfordcoco.ie
Cloontuskert Cemetery
Cemetery Sunday will take place on Sunday 10th August at 6pm.
The landscaping of the new cemetery is now complete and it is looking beautiful in the evening sunshine. A lot of hard work has gone in over the past few weeks to get all the work completed. The shrubs when mature will really enhance the cemetery. The final phase is the replacement of the internal roads for which the community are currently seeking funding. 40 years ago on 5th May is when all the work started – the cemetery and its environs have come a long way since then. Due to a recent fundraiser and very donation to the cemetery committee the committee finds itself in a position to bring forward the plan for a complete refurbishment of the Mass enclosure that was earmarked for 2027. It will be a fitting tribute to mark the 40th Anniversary.
Meanwhile work began on Saturday last to replace the old cracked floor which is required to enable the erection of the permanent structure and the plan is also to replace the limestone altar, which has cracked, with a new granite altar. The current target is to have all completed in time for Cemetery Sunday on the 10th August.
Smart Recovery Ireland
You are invited to contact Darren O’Brien at 086 1715334for the nearest location as meetings are no longer held in Roscommon.
Notes inclusions
Anybody that wants items included in the local notes is advised that they have their note with me on a Sunday night at the very latest. This is to ensure inclusion in the notes of the following week.
Access for All boat
Have you availed of the wonderful experience on our doorstep? The Access for All boat is for everybody and it takes you on a 90 minute trip out onto the lake as see its beauty and some of the islands on Lough Ree. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs, but you don’t have to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. Winter sailing times daily for the 90 minute trip are 11.00am and 1pm until the end of March. Guided fishing excursions can also be organised. Advanced booking is recommended. You can contact by email www.loughreeboattrips.com or phone 089 2625505 or 043 33 84175
Dementia Memory Club
The Roscommon Dementia Memory Club is designed for those that are living with dementia and their carer or friend or plus one! A café-like set up, followed by activities, storytelling, reminiscence, music, song and dance. The club offers a great opportunity for persons living with dementia & their carer to socialize and promote improved mental and physical wellbeing, and more importantly to have fun! You don’t have to dance, you can watch and enjoy and contribute in other ways! Come along and see for yourself at Roscommon Music Social Club, the Quad Youth Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon Town. F42 CH70 every Thursday 11:30 am to 1pm. Contact Irene on 087 108 0650 or email IreneTabb@westernalzheimers.ie
Brothers of Charity seeks support
Volunteers needed: Are you interested in supporting someone with an intellectual disability, to be part of the community in which they live? Volunteers provide a valuable contribution by connecting people to their local communities and enrich the lives of the people we support, by bringing friendship and fun in to their lives. Volunteers can do this by attending local social activities or sporting events together, going walking, swimming, or just sharing interests and chatting over a cup of coffee/tea. Volunteers will be supported in their role by the Volunteer Coordinator. If you are interested in volunteering in the Brothers of Charity Services in Roscommon please contact Edel Crehan on edel.crehan@bocsi.ie or 0874887314 for more details.
Short Breaks Scheme: Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children and adults who have an intellectual disability? Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, Homeshare Roscommon are recruiting host carers. Training and support provided. Tax exempt Allowances paid. For further information email Homeshareroscommon@bocsi.ie or phone Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.
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.
Local Health Service
Local Heath Service is available at Roscommon University Hospital. The service will deal with urgent and routine health problems. The Freephone phone number to ring is 1800 700700.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@alone.ie or phone 086 0145 829.
Co. Longford Citizens Advice Centre
Co. Longford Citizens Information Service has recently been restructured and is currently under new management.
They continue to provide free, impartial, and confidential information, advice, and advocacy services to the public on social services, rights, and entitlements. The range of areas covered by the citizens information centre are extremely wide including social welfare rights and entitlements and other social issues such as employment, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights, all where people need access to information.
The way people access the services changed during Covid and now they currently deal with a large number of queries over the telephone, however, they continue to provide our drop-in times and welcome people to their face-to-face service five mornings a week from the Longford office. The services are provided by experienced trained Information Officers who are there to help you.
The centre is located on level 1 within Longford Shopping Centre and direction can be obtained at the reception desk from Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 5.00pm. The office closes for lunch from 1pm until 2pm.
The Employability Service
Is an Employment and Recruitment Service to assist people with a disability or health issue to pursue and maintain employment in the open labour market? If you are over 18, have a disability or health issue and would consider working part-time then you should contact Employment Services Roscommon support to help find you a job in your area. This is a confidential and free individualised service funded by the Department of Social Protection.
Are you managing mental health issues? There is the opportunity for Individual Placement and Support (IPS) that is funded by the HSE and offers a range of tailored personalised supports to people using mental health services who wish to work. For further information you should phone 090 66 28608 or call/text 087 3745307. They can also be contacted via email at info@rosemp.ie
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of those addicted to alcohol are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral. The meetings take place every Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
The club is extremely grateful for your on-going tremendous support.
ALONE
ALONE is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home.
Our work is for all older people and aims to improve physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. We have a national network of staff and volunteers who provide an integrated system of Support Coordination, Practical Supports, Befriending, a variety of Phone Services, Social Prescribing, Housing with Support and Assistive Technology.
We use individualised support plans, to address health, financial benefits and supports, social care, housing, transport and other arising needs using technology and through harnessing other services.
We work to empower the whole sector of community support for older people through our Community Impact Network that provides Training, IT support and resources to other organisations.
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are 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.
GROW
Grow is a Community Mental Health Movement which meets every Monday at 11am in the Community Mental Health Centre, Dublin Rd., Longford. If you are feeling lonely, isolated or suffering from stress, please feel free to attend. You can call Assumpta for any further information on 086 8114135.
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.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock: The annual Ardagh Clonmacnois Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on Sunday 7th September, The ceremonies commence with the Anointing of the Sick at 2.30pm followed by Pilgrimage Mass at 3pm.
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 1st August
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
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Kilgefin Cemetery Sunday: Cemetery Sunday with the Blessing of the Graves at Kilgefin cemetery will take place on Sunday 24th August at 6pm.
Vincentian Lay Missionaries Appeal: Fr. Dan would like to inform everyone that the Vincentian Lay Missionaries will be attending the Kilgefin parish for an appeal on the weekend 9/10 August. You are invited to greatly support and donate generously.
Ballyleague Hall AGM: The AGM of the Ballyleague Hall committee will take place on Friday 25th July in Ballyleague hall at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.
Certificate in Religious Education: Atlantic Technological University St. Angela’s, Sligo, is offering a part-time Certificate course in Religious Education for Primary School level with online delivery. Applications are invited for this programme commencing in Autumn 2025. The closing date for applications is Friday 15th August. Further details can be obtained by contacting mary.kearns@atu.ie or on the www.atu.ie website.
Elphin and Achonry Diocesan Pilgrimage To Knock Shrine will take place on Sunday, 17th August 2025. There will also be a Family Day on the same date offering various activities for families with children of all ages. For more details visit https://www.knockshrine.ie/family-day-at-knock-shrine/
The Legion of Mary: The legion of Mary organising a day trip to Lough Derg on Saturday 6th September 2025. The bus will be leaving the Sacred Heart Church car park at 6.30 am. For bookings please contact Teresa 087 1206343 or Noreen on 086 3529916 (090 6625209).
Pilgrimage to Lourdes: The Elphin and Achonry Diocese Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from Friday 29th August to Wednesday 3rd September. Application forms for the Assisted Pilgrim Section are available from Fr. Ray Milton, P.P. Pilgrimage Director, St. John’s Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (090 666 111 5). The closing date for receipt of Assisted Pilgrimage applications is 16th June. Nominations for the Youth section are being sought from parishes for young people between the ages of 17 to 20 years to participate in the pilgrimage. Youth must be nominated through their priest/Chaplin. Forms are available from the local parish office. For all enquiries regarding the pilgrimage contact Joe Walsh Tours at 01 2410 800 or email info@joewalshtours.ie
Young Adult Pilgrimage to Italy: The Young Adult Pilgrimage to Italy will take place from 29th July to 8th August with Bishop Kevin Doran. The pilgrimage is open to 18 – 35 year olds. The cost is €995 pps.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
New York 2026:
St. Faithleachs GAA Club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in 2026. The game will take place on the week ending Sunday, April 2nd (Easter Sunday). Flights would likely be on the Thursday morning prior to the game and returning on the Monday night after. We have provisional prices for the trip from a travel agent of approx. €1400 per person sharing. Other prices for more than two in a room will be available. The price will include flights, centrally located hotel and transfers from and to the airport. Match tickets are not included. Booking would involve paying a deposit directly to the travel agent early on and the remainder closer to the flight date.
At this stage, we are looking for approximate numbers of people who are likely to go. If interested, please contact either Jimmy Mangan on 0868177915 or Michael Cleary on 0872238293 with names of intended travellers. More details will be available when the game date is confirmed.
Cards: The weekly card game continues every Tuesday evening with the first deal at 8pm. New players always welcome. Refreshments will be served on the night.
Clubhouse If any members wish to use the clubhouse please contact Gerry Donlon or any committee member.
1965 Reunion
On Friday 1st August at the opening of the Senior Championship game v Padraig Pearses representatives from our 1965 Championship winning team will be in attendance. The team will be presented to the crowd before the game. Please come along to support the lads and to see our heroes from the past.
All-Ireland Tickets
We are raffling off 2 tickets to this year’s All Ireland Senior Football Championship Final between Kerry and Donegal. Tickets are €20 each. Visit our social media pages to access the link for the draw. All proceeds going towards our Minor and Senior Club. Your support is much appreciated.
Appreciation
The club would to say thanks to Lanesboro Triathlon Club who kindly donated the proceeds of the Return Scheme from the Lanesboro Triathlon to St. Faithleachs GAA Club. We are very grateful this kind gesture.