Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Craft Fair & Bake Sale
On the last Sunday of the month, Sunday 30th November, the Kilgefin Women’s Shed is holding a Craft Fair and Bake sale from 1pm to 4pm in the Parochial House Ballagh, F42YN61. There will be a great selection of handmade crafts and home baked goods will be on sale. There will be stalls from guest crafters such as renowned creative artist Tom Gill, Strokestown Women’s Shed, Kiki Art and Ballyleague N.S. there is free entry with tea and coffee served. There will be a raffle on the day with lots of prizes.
Give Blood this week
The need to give blood and presently there is an unprecedented need for blood hence it is much more important as the supplies of blood for those in need is at an all- time low with only a few day back up supply. We are now going into a much busier time and a much more critical time of the year in hospitals where the need for blood will only keep increasing. No matter where you located and reading these notes are please look up the blood service website and find a clinic close to you and donate. In Ireland the website for checking your nearest clinic is www.giveblood.ie
There is also a great need for those from other countries living in Ireland to donate blood as the service also needs diversity in the donor base.
There are also a number of clinics coming up in Mullingar at the Park Hotel on Monday 1st December, Tuesday 2nd, Wednesday 3rd, Thursday 4th, and Tuesday 9th all with clinic times from 3.50 to 8.10pm.
If you are intending to attend it is recommend that you eat something and drink plenty of cold drinks beforehand.
Allow yourself about 90 minutes to complete the process at the clinic from the registration to refreshments.
Sympathy
We extend our deepest sympathy to Mrs Maura Heneghan, The Green and her family who suffered a double bereavement during the past week. On Wednesday last 19th November, Maura’s sister, Nancy Garvey, Ballinrobe, passed away at Mayo General Hospital. This sad news was followed the following day, on Thursday last 20th November, when Maura’s brother-in-law Donal O’Mahoney- married to Maura’s sister Helen, passed away suddenly at his home in Partry, Co. Mayo. May they both rest in eternal peace.
Festival Folk returns
Last year Roscommon Cancer Support hosted Festival Folk in Roscommon and it was a resounding success and proved to be a fabulous support to Roscommon Cancer Support. The support last year from our local community was excellent and it is hoped that it will be even greater this year.
This year, Roscommon Cancer Support group, have put together another fantastic line up to perform at the Abbey Hotel on Thursday 11th December at 8pm. Featuring will be national and international artists, Mike Hanrahan, Pat Shortt, Mary Coughlan, Ultan Conlon along with the Roscommon Men’s Choir, Michael Banahan & Bill Shanley, Vincent Pierce and the Shannon Academy School of Dance. The compere will be Deirdre Kelly. Tickets, priced at €25 are available from the Abbey Hotel (09066 26240), Vita House (090966 25898) or online at Eventbrite.
Death
For someone that fought ill health for so long it makes her passing all the more poignant and this was the case when we learned of the death in the care of the Coronary Unit at St. James’s Hospital, Dublin of Margaret McCaffrey, Lough Ree Drive , Longford Road on Thursday 13th November. Margaret was more commonly known as Mag had been battling ill health for a number of years. She had been predeceased by her parents Tommy and Maura Higgins, her sister Marian, her brother Michael, her niece Sabrina and her nephew Edward. Although quite a young lady she was not the type to let her ill health get her down and she fought daily with a tremendous spirit and resilience. Anybody that had the pleasure could only be lifted by her spirit and her unyielding in her actions to enjoy life. Along with her husband Adrian they lived previously in Church View where she was a highly respected neighbour. She had a wonderful love of the youth and to see the sadness in their eyes at the mention of her passing spoke volume of the lady. Mags touched the lives of everyone with her warmth, strength and generosity of time and her caring manner. She was never one to forget dates of occasions and anyone celebrating occasions received gifts from her. At the time of her passing she was preparing presents for Christmas. The name of Mag McCaffrey will be long remembered by so many and her memory will bring a tear to many eyes. Mag was blessed to have Adrian by her side as he diligently tended to her needs at all times over the years and she had the other love of her life, her constant companion, her dog Patch always by her side.
Mag’s remains reposed at Glennon’s Funeral Home on Tuesday 18th November. On Wednesday her remains were removed to St. Mary’s Church, Lanesboro for the Mass of the Resurrection which was followed by cremation at Lakeland’s Crematorium, Cavan. To her husband Adrian, her brothers Pat, David and Seamus relatives and friends we extend our heartfelt sympathy.
National Award Winner
At the National Awards of the 2025 SciFest held in Dublin on Friday last There was further wonderful news for Lanesboro Community College as well as our community when Ronan Lyons was announced as winner of the Boston Scientific Medical Devices Grand Award 2025 winner for his project Promoting Independent Living long-term. Ronan is a sixth year student in LCC and is son of teachers Michael Lyons and Mary O’Brien.
Congratulation Ronan on your winning of such a prestigious national award.
Death
Born 59 years ago in Sydney, Australia and as a child he was fascinated with toy soldiers showing that his calling in life was to be a natural born leader and the news of the passing of Pat Cullen, Aghawerriny, Curraghroe on Sunday 16th November at Galway University Hospital, brought a great sadness to our hearts. Pat was predeceased by his father Paddy. Through his youth Pat showed great leadership qualities and it was no surprise when he joined the Defence forces where he gave 40years service. He rose to the rank of Sergeant with the A Coy, 6th Battalion, Custume Barracks, Athlone. At the age of 6 the family returned to Ireland and Pat got his education at the local primary and secondary schools. Following school he went to England for a short time before returning to join the army in Mullingar and he also served at Longford Barracks. Her served abroad with the UN in the 80’s and 90’s where he did tours of duty. Pat was a warm friendly and chatty man and he kind and generous manner endeared him to everyone. He was a man who loved to travel and learn the history of the places he was visiting. History and politics were firm favourites of his and he also loved reading books on the Roman Empire. As a child of the 60’s music would naturally be in his blood and as country lad he had a love of animals and country life. Pat was a religious and spiritual man and on a visit to Rome he had the distinct honour to meet with Pope John Paul II. The passing of Pat leaves us with heavy hearts but with great memories that we will always cherish. He was buried with full military honours.
His remains reposed at Smyth’s Funeral Home on Tuesday 18th November. On Wednesday his remains were removed from his home to St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh for Mass of the Resurrection. Burial took place afterwards in Kilgefin Cemetery. To his wife Josephine, sons Paul, Patrick, and John, his daughter Maria, his mother Ruth, his brother Craig, his sister Siobhán, his granddaughter Esme, his extended family and his Defence Forces colleagues we extend our sincere sympathy.
Shannon Gael AGM
Following on from what was a fabulously competitive and successful year on the playing pitch for the young underage players of the Shannon Gael club the club will hold its AGM on Friday night next 28th November at 8pm in the clubhouse in Clonbonny. There is hope for a huge turnout acknowledging the work done by the executive, the coaches and the young players. The future is bright and your support, ideas on further club development will further enhance the club. Please do come along as everyone is welcome.
Bord na Mona Mass
The annual Mass for retired, deceased and current workers of Bord na Mona will take place in St. Mary’s Church on this Wednesday 26th November at 10am
Donation
Following the mass for deceased members of ESB Lanesboro there was a sum of money left over and the committee donated the sum to the local Social Services who help out local people in their time of need and especially a little help to those in need at this particular time of the year.
Christmas Fair
The annual Christmas Fair will take place on Sunday 7th December in St. Marys Parish Hall. To make a booking or enquiries you should contact Mags on 0863600419. More details will follow in the coming weeks.
250th Celebration
St. Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon, is celebrating its 250th Anniversary and part of its celebration the congregation will present an evening of Christmas Carols with the Athlone Choral Society with special guest Daren Lane in St. Coman’s Church of Ireland on Sunday next 30th November at 6pm. Donations at the door and all proceeds are in aid of the Church Restoration Fund.
great fun.
Come along and give it a try and if you require more info 0868546433
Search for a Star returns
Rathcline GAA Search for a Star will return to the stage at Lanesboro Parish Hall on Saturday 13th December.
Presently rehearsals are taking place with the 11 participating groups with a great variety of both young and the not so young. If you would like to sponsor any one of the performing acts you should get in contact with any member of the executive.
Club Mass
The Rathcline club’s annual mass will take place in St. Mary’s Church on Saturday 6th December at 6.30pm.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 17th November for a prize of €678. The winning ticket was in the name of Adam Farrell, Gortgallon who was the recipients of the €678 cheque. As usual the winning cheque will be left in O’Brien’s for collection.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is greatly appreciated as it is keeping the winning money at a high and exciting level every week – thank you.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Josie O’Sullivan and her family, Lehery on the death of her late husband Pat’s sister Maura Herlihy, Cahersiveen, Co. Kerry last week.
A Calm Christmas Moment: Sensory Santa is for Everyone!
Skip the noise and the long lines for Santa this year. The Access For All Sensory Santa experience is designed to be calm, quiet, and wonderfully slow-paced and a chance to forget the usual holiday rush!
Whether you have sensory needs, a shy child, a busy toddler, or just prefer a relaxed atmosphere, this is your perfect photo opportunity. Everyone deserves a stress-free Santa visit and this is the ideal opportunity locally
Book your quiet moment today at the Access For All as there are limited slots available for a magical visit to Santa that will take place on Saturday 20th December from 10am to 3.50pm.
When you book you secure your 10 minute slot with Santa for up to 3 children. Each child will receive a gift and you are welcome to take as many pictures as you like. The cost of the visit to Santa is just €5 per child
Volunteer with SVP
Do you think that you can find the time to do some voluntary work for St Vincent de Paul? If you would like to assist, you should contact the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at 1800 677 777.
ICA Guild news
The ICA lotto was held last Wednesday and Lanesboro ICA had 2 lucky dip winners. The next draw and last one before Christmas will be held in Kenagh on the 17th December for a jackpot of €1,100 and some extra prizes. Tickets can be purchased from the ICA information table at the Lanesboro Christmas Fair on Sunday 13th December. The Longford Federation calendars for 2026 will also be on sale at the Fair for just €5 each. The theme for this year was the activities throughout the year so there will be lots of great photos in it.
The ICA Christmas Craft Fair takes place on 7th December in the Temperance Hall, Longford. Contact Virginia for details 086 202 6542.
Make sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for photos of our upcoming Christmas evening out in Sorrento’s.
The next Lanesboro Guild meeting takes place on Wednesday 10th December and as always new faces are more than welcome.
Remembering Jeaff McGann
We all remember the shock we felt when we learned of our recently and dearly departed friend Jeaffrey McGann. Jeaff was an avid five-a-side player right up to his passing and in his honour our local soccer club Ballyboro is inviting everyone to the Astro turf pitch at Lanesboro Community College to a five-a-side tournament on Saturday 27th December. The tournament will run from 12 noon until 5pm. The cost is €20 per player (over 18 only) and the proceeds will be presented to the Irish Heart Foundation.
Registration deadline is Wednesday 17th December. Players will be allocated to teams after
the registration deadline. To register and express your intent to compete you are asked to contact David Gilmore by WhatsApp 085 704 5505.
Let’s support Jeaff’s memory in great numbers and great style.
Weekly Card Game
The results of the weekly Sunday night card game that took place on Sunday night 23rd November in Lanesboro Parish Hall are 1st Eugene Kelly & Barney Kenny. 2nd Anne & Kay. Last game winners were Pat Rock & Harry Skelly. Raffle winners were Noreen Gibbons, Tom Rock, Ann and Petey Donlon. New card players will always be welcome to join in for a great night of card playing and friendliness. Light refreshments as always are served.
Pilates with Regina
Mat Pilates classes (with Regina) takes place every Thursday evening at St. Mary’s Hall Lanesboro 7.30pm The classes incorporating balance, resistance, and weight bearing exercises. For further information call Regina at 087 2485822.
Line Dance Classes
Beginners Line Dance Classes comes to the Temperance Hall Longford (N39 R9X8) every Monday night at 7.30pm. This popular dance continues to grow rapidly countrywide and this is you opportunity to learn the steps and join in at all the dances and functions. The tutor is Christopher Beirne and if you require further information please call 086 847 4744
Book continues to sell very well
Back at the beginning of August Dan Magan launched his book of poetry Songs of the Sesh. Last weekend just 12 weeks later Dan has just published his new book Odyssey –Summary to Skitzpathic Diaries. This is a very frank story by this young 31 year who said “went all the way on every drug, and I saw the light”. The book is on sale in O’Brien’s priced €20 and it has proved to be a very popular book.
Garden Club Charity Gala
Roscommon Garden Club is hosting a Christmas Charity Gala in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, on Thursday week 4th December at 8pm. A Floral demonstration will be given by Anya O’Dwyer followed by a wine and finger food buffet. The proceeds will benefit Roscommon Underwater Search & Recovery. Tickets at €25 are available at the Abbey Hotel or at McGuiness Totalhealth, Main Street, Roscommon Town.
Lanesboro Library
1-to-1 Digital Skills Classes
We are delighted to announce that Lanesboro Library will host 1-to-1 Tutor Led Digital Skills classes every Wednesday from 10am to 12.30pm. Classes are 30 minutes each. Please contact the library to book your place. Classes are running through until January 21st.
My Open Library
Lanesboro Library Invites You to the Launch of “My Open Library” Lanesboro Library is delighted to welcome the community to a special launch event for My Open Library on December 4th from 6–8pm.
My Open Library gives patrons extended, staff-free access to the library from 8am to 10pm, 365 days a year using their library card.
Join us on the night to learn how the system works, see a demonstration, and sign up for extended access. All are welcome!
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!
Board Game Battles
Saturdays from 10.30am-12.00pm, Lanesboro Library will host a drop-in session where you can play board games and challenge your friends! Parental supervision is required.
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
This vibrant throw was crafted by the Lanesboro Library Knitting and Crochet group, meeting every Tuesday for nearly a decade. See attachments
Throw
Recently, Theresa the librarian inspired them to create a colourful cover for the breastfeeding chair. The response was heart-warming!
With enthusiasm, they combined their talents—one woman designed a stunning centrepiece while others contributed unique crochet squares.
A huge thank you from Lanesboro Library staff for this beautiful display of community spirit!
Drumeela Garden Club Gala Night
If you and your friends are looking for a lovely night out, you could come along to this Gala 30th Anniversary Celebration in the Cornmill Theatre, Carrigallen on Friday next 28th November with a start time of 8pm.
Leonie Cornelius, gold medal winner at Bloom 2025 and bestselling author, contributor to the Sunday Independent, who also appears on the RTE Today Show will speak at this event.
Timothy Elliott, one of the region’s most artistic and skilful floral demonstrators will create some beautiful arrangements. There will be a grand raffle of €500 garden consultation with Leonie and many floral displays. Lovely refreshments will be served on the evening.
Book your tickets on www. cornmilltheatre.com
Tri Club Press Release
The team from Lanesboro Triathlon Club behind the hugely successful Two Provinces Triathlon were celebrating a spectacular double victory last Saturday night at the Triathlon Ireland Annual Awards Ceremony, held at the Burlington Hotel.
Race of the Year Victory
The Two Provinces Triathlon was first nominated for the coveted Race of the Year award, facing tough competition from across the country. Having been nominated many times in the past but never successful, there was a palpable tension amongst the club members. After a tense evening of anticipation, the award speech was finally delivered by David Pollard of the Triathlon Ireland Board.
The Two Provinces Triathlon was finally crowned the 2025 Race of the Year.
Speaking about the race, David Pollard Triathlon Ireland board member stated:
“The Race of the Year award recognises an event that truly captures the essence of triathlon – exceptional organisation, athlete care, community spirit, and that unforgettable atmosphere that keeps competitors coming back year after year.
Two Provinces exemplifies all of that and more. Nominations poured in praising its “flawless organisation,” “incredible community support,” and “marshals who went above and beyond.” Many highlighted the warm, welcoming environment that made both first-timers and experienced athletes feel right at home. Athletes spoke of “the friendliest organisers you’ll ever meet,” and “a course that’s safe, scenic, and supported every step of the way.”
Two Provinces Triathlon, organised by Lanesboro TC showcases what happens when a whole community comes together to celebrate sport. It’s an event that not only tests endurance but fills every athlete with pride to take part.”
Following the announcement, Race Director Niall Mulvihill from Lanesboro Triathlon Club said:
“It’s incredible to have finally secured the Race of the Year award. There has been so much work put in by a large number of people over many years to make the Two Provinces what it is today. The race would not be what it is today without the support of our club members, community and sponsors who have shown commitment to the race. I am very proud that this dedication has been acknowledged. For anyone who has either competed or been a spectator, they understand what a special event this is.”
National Championship Status Secured for 2026
The celebration continued with the announcement of the 2026 major event calendar. To everyone’s surprise and delight, the Two Provinces Triathlon had secured the Sprint, Junior, and Draft Legal National Championships for a second consecutive year.
This prestigious allocation cements the Two Provinces as the most coveted race on the triathlon calendar for two consecutive years—a direct result of the tireless efforts of the race committee, the dedication of the 200 marshals who volunteer every race day Saturday morning, and finally, the overwhelming support from the communities of Lanesborough, Ballyleague, and Cloontuskert, without whose cooperation the race would not be possible.
Club Medal Haul
Additionally on the night, members of Lanesboro Triathlon Club collected their medals secured during the successful 2025 race season. This year has been a record season for the club’s medal haul. Those collecting medals on the evening included Elaine Lally, Frank O’Connor, Paula Jordan, Therese O’Connor, Tara Farrell, Catherine Tully, Grainne Egan, Maura Dervin, John Lyons, Shane Hennelly and Mark Kenny.
€15,000 can be yours
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning. For the past number of months the jackpot has reached it upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers it continues to be available for the person with the correct numbers. The draw for this week will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 25th November, for the wonderful prize of €15,000. If the draw is not won 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 18th November and there was no winner of the draw and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw on 25th November. The numbers drawn were 4, 6, 14, and 21. The winner of the €50 prize was Carmel McKenna, Barnacor, and the three €20 prizes were won by Lauren, Lily & Molly O’Brien, Newbridge, Co. Kildare, Brigid c/o Mags and Ronan Glennon, Cloonadra. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 25th November and every Tuesday morning. The brown envelopes cost €2 each or you can buy 3 envelopes for just €5.
We would like to encourage everyone in the community to join in the playing of this very vital weekly draw. Tickets are on sale throughout the town.
Lend me a Tenor
Roscommon Drama Group is delighted to be taking to the stage once again, with their production Lend Me A Tenor written by Ken Ludwig and directed by Kieran Madden of Roscommon Drama Group. The play is guaranteed belly laughs, not to be missed this week, Thursday 27th, Friday 28th and Saturday 29th November at 8 p.m. Tickets available from Roscommon Arts Centre – €18.
Simon Casey plays in St. Brigid’s
A fundraiser for St. Brigid’s Church parish Funds, Ardagh, will take place in St. Brigid’s Church on Sunday 14th December. Christmas Time with leading vocalist Simon Casey will offer an evening of Christmas cheer with songs of hope and inspiration. Tickets are available in O’Brien’s Lanesboro or you can pay by REVOLUT to Betty 086 3855 424.
Fundraising Raffle
The Ballyleague National School Parents Association is holding a Fundraising Raffle and they are encouraging everyone to support their raffle. The prize structure is 1st €1000 voucher for Wildlands, Galway or the cash equivalent, 2nd A Galaxy tablet donated by The Lunch Bag, 3rd €200 donated by Duggan’s Bus Hire and Midlands Sports Surfaces, 4th 3 months membership at Roscommon Leisure Centre, 5th €100 Abbey Hotel Roscommon Voucher donated by Gary’s Gardening and 6th Electric Heater donated by Keogh Electrical Ltd. Tickets are priced at 1 – €10; 3 – €25; 8 – €50. The draw will take place on Thursday 18th December. You can buy tickets online https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/BallyleagueNSFundraiser
Seeking Safety
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, Boyle and Roscommon town. For more information please contact Lorraine in complete confidence. 094 96 21690 or email lcampbell@rwn.ie
Grinds in German and French
If you are preparing for your leaving or Junior Certificate exams, at any level, there is no better time to get that extra bit of help in making the subjects easier. If this is of interest to your students then you should make contact at 089 488 5679.
The local Fire Service – an ideal opportunity
There is an on-going need for the numbers employed as local fire-fighters at Lanesboro Fire Station to be increased. If you work or live locally and feel you, consistently, can be at the fire station with a short reaction time, when your pager goes, then come along and enrol for the training programme and assessment. There is great training offered and it is wide and varied and following this 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 choose to go forward for medical training to become a recognised as first responder. 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 to be shared outside of the fire station environment.
Living in the parishes of Rathcline and Kilgefin or the western side of Killashee you should be capable of reaching the Fire Station 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 very satisfying work. This is a wonderful opportunity for so many people living on both sides of the bridge and the hinterlands to avail of and one that should be appealing to so many.
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
New York game fixed for Sunday 12th April
There has been a wonderful response shown by so many people expressing their interested in taking advantage of the Roscommon trip to New York next April. Last week the Connaught Fixtures for 2026 were announced and New York will host Roscommon in Gaelic Park on Sunday 12th April at 3pm (8pm Irish time)
It is five years ago since Roscommon played New York and the memories of that wonderful week in the Big Apple are still remembered and talked about.
This is a golden opportunity to join with the big numbers from the St. Faithleach’s club and avail of a fabulous few days in the city that never sleeps. It was hoped that the game would be on Easter Sunday but alas it is the Sunday afterwards 12th April.
Nonetheless the flights will 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 and you have to too them off the Connaught GAA website. 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 still looking for approximate number of people that are intending to go. If you are considering travelling or intend going you are asked to contact Jimmy Mangan on 086 8177915 or Michael Cleary on 087 2238293 with your name and the names of your intended travellers. More details will become available when the game date is confirmed.
Notes inclusions
Anybody that wants items included in the local notes is advised that they have their note with me on a Sunday night at the very latest. This is to ensure inclusion in the notes of the following week.
Access for All boat
Have you availed of the wonderful experience on our doorstep? The Access for All boat is for everybody and it takes you on a 90 minute trip out onto the lake as see its beauty and some of the islands on Lough Ree. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs, but you don’t have to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. Winter sailing times daily for the 90 minute trip are 11.00am and 1pm until the end of March. Guided fishing excursions can also be organised. Advanced booking is recommended. You can contact by email www.loughreeboattrips.com or phone 089 2625505 or 043 33 84175
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
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.
Outstanding Local Health Service
Local Health Services are available at Roscommon University Hospital. Roscommon Hospital is providing an outstanding service for the entire area with short waiting times and excellent care offered. 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.
Support Group
Relatives and friends of anyone who has an alcoholic problem are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral. The meetings take place every Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
The club is extremely grateful for your on-going tremendous support.
ALONE
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are still facing difficulties relating to Covid-19. Professional staff is available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week from 8am until 8pm. Text TALK to 50808 to begin.
Local Health Service
The health service is here for us all, from routine to urgent calls. HSELive is here 7 days a week to answer questions. The number to ring is Freephone 1800 700700.
Roscommon University Hospital Injury Unit is available from 8am to 8pm seven days, a week and the contact number is 09066 32212.
Emergency Department deals with serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies if you need urgent medical help. They are open 24 hours a day and can be contacted by phoning 999 or 112.
St. Mary’s Church Lanesboro
Priest contacts: If you have a need to contact any one of the priests you can do so by phoning Fr. Merlyn Kenny 086 0603433 or Fr. Turlough Baxter 087 9972259.
You can also contact parish secretary Maireád Rooney by calling into the presbytery from Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm.or she can be contacted on the phone at 3321166.
First Saturdays: The First Saturdays conference will take place in Knock on Saturday 6th December. A bus will depart from Granard at 8am and it will pick up at Lanesboro Church at approx. 8.45am. To book a seat, please call Peter 087 661 3510, Ursula at 087 601 6062 or Kitty 086 040 5621.
The Key: A new free magazine, produced by the Irish Dominican Friars, is available in the church porch three time a year.
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 5th December.
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
Advent Retreat Day: As we prepare for Christmas you are all invited to our Advent Retreat Day on Saturday week 6th December in Ballyleague Church. The retreat will take place from 11am to 1pm. During the retreat, we will pray the Holy Rosary, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Confessions will be heard and a Spiritual talk will be given by a guest speaker. Several visiting priests will be available for your confessions at 12 noon. Come and be blessed.
Lighting of Advent Candles: Every year during Advent, our children are invited during Mass to light the four Advent candles as part of the initiatives of getting our youth to actively participate at Masses. If you would like your children to be part of the lighting of the candles please contact Paul Kenny or Brenda Reynolds on or before this coming Friday 28th November.
Kilgefin Christmas Party: The Kilgefin Parish Senior Citizen and retiree Christmas party will take place in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse on Sunday 7th December at 3pm. The afternoon will include dinner, music, spot prizes and fun. Ballyleague Church Rota: Copies of the updated rota for Ballyleague Church are available in the church porch.
Volunteers wanted for Ballagh Church: Presently, Fr. Dan is looking for volunteers to open Ballagh Church on a rota basis. If possible, he would like to set up a group of 12 people; therefore it could be done on a monthly basis. At the moment Fr. Dan would like to have the church open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with the heat turned on before Mass. If you are interested please contact Clement Collins 086 805 4205.
Save the Date: On Sunday next 30th November, Kilgefin Women’s Shed is holding a Craft Fair and Bake sale from 1pm to 4pm in the Parochial House Ballagh, F42YN61. Lots of handmade crafts and home baked goods will be on sale. Also stalls from guest crafters: Tom Gill, Strokestown Women’s Shed, Kiki Art and Ballyleague N.S. there is free entry with tea and coffee served. There will be a raffle on the day with lots of prizes.
Religious Magazine: If you would like to get the religious magazine ‘The Messenger’ you should call Mary Ó Dúill at 3321969
KPPC Resolution: Parishioners are reminded that a decade of the Rosary will be recited before all Masses in all three churches of our parish at weekends and everyone is asked to be in the church 20 minutes before mass times.
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.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Club AGM: St. Faithleachs GAA Club AGM takes place on Saturday week 29th November in the clubhouse at 7pm; all members are invited to attend.
New York 2026:
St. Faithleachs GAA Club is organising a trip to New York for the Roscommon/New York Connacht Championship game in 2026 and to date there has been a great interest shown in the trip. The game will take place on Sunday, April 12th April. Flights will be most 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 M0’angan on 0868177915 or Michael Cleary on 0872238293 with names of intended travellers. More details will be available when the game date is confirmed.
Lottery:. Tickets on sale at the usual local outlets or online https://member.clubspot.app/club/st-faithleachs-gaa/fundraisers
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.