Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Exam Mass for Students at Knock Shrine
There will be an Exam Mass for all students preparing for exams and their families. Take some time out from your studies for a quiet moment to ask for God’s strength and guidance as you move through your exam period. Bring along your pencil case to have it blessed on Bank Holiday Monday June 5th at 7.30pm in Knock Basilica.
Please help and support
The annual ‘Honda 50 Run’ will take place this year on Sunday 11th June starting at St. Mary’s Hall. This event is in support of the Longford Branch of MS.
The organisers are seeking donations to help sponsor the Run and/or a spot prize for the raffle on the day.
If you have a suitable donation you can leave into O’Brien’s for collection by a member of the organising committee.
Engagement
Many congratulations to John Hanley, son of Johnny and Bernie Hanley, Corrigeen and Anita Hanley, daughter of Padraig and Alice Hanley, Anrattabeg, who announced their engagement recently.
Kayaking Camps for the Summer
As is the norm every year Junior Hannon will be organising the youngsters summer camp at Ballyleague. This is always a very popular camp and the youngsters always have a great time. The first camp will commence on Monday 26th June until Thursday 29th June. The camp caters for youngsters from 10 years to 17years. All gear will be supplied apart from the wetsuits. The cost of the camp is €70, with the second child from the same family €65. To book your place contact you should phone 087 2977769 and for further details.
Sympathy
A man very proud of his Lanesboro roots, a great interest in his home parish and all the happenings therein, that was Sylvester Carroll, The Demesne, Longford Town and formerly of knock. When meeting him his only concern was what was happening at home as he would say. Sylvester was predeceased by his parents Pat and Ellen, his brother Jimmy and his wife Mary.
The memory of Sylvester will live long with all of us that knew him; his memory, his warmth and his warm welcoming smile will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Sylvester passed away on Sunday 21st May at Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague. Following Mass of the Resurrection on Wednesday in St. Mel’s Cathedral, interment took place afterwards in Cashel Cemetery.
We extend our deepest sympathy to his daughter Shirley, his son Andrew, his sister Maureen, relatives and his many friends.
One of the very best
When you hear the old saying of ‘the job was made for you’ there was never a truer statement for Hannah Shea, daughter of Richard and Geraldine Shea, Blenavoher, who was a finalist in the Apprentice Network Technician of the Year. Hannah, a final year apprentice with ESB Networks was selected in the top six countrywide apprentices in the competition. Her love of the jobs and her technical skills shone like a beacon throughout the final stages of the competition.
Being in the top six in the country is no mean achievement and we are really proud of her achievement of being in the top six in Ireland. Many congratulations Hannah and we wish you much happiness and success in your future career.
Death
There was great sadness in the community and wider communities when we learned of the death, following a very brief illness, at the Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar on Saturday 20th May of Josephine Farrell, Aughamore. Formerly of Griffinstown, Co. Westmeath she was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth & Michael and her brother Eddie. Prior to coming to Lanesboro Josephine worked in the hospitality side of business in Dublin and prior to come here she managed the prestigious Clontarf Golf Club. Always wanting to set up her own business on a trip to Lanesboro she saw the opportunity in 1976 to open a laundrette from where she ran a successful business. In 1978 she married Adie Farrell and exchanged one business for another when she began to run the supermarket and opened the pub every day. Josephine had an ethic of hard work which she carried through right to the end. She was a woman with a great devotion to her family. She was an excellent neighbour and family friend, always willing to be of assistance and her passing will leave a tremendous void in our hearts and minds. A woman of few airs and graces, a lady that loved to dance, she was a wonderful confidant and loved to have the banter with all her customers. For a week each year she would enjoy the opportunity to have a sun holiday and a break from all the hard work.
The huge and representative attendance at the reposing of her remains in Farrell’s Funeral Home on Tuesday and again at her Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church on Wednesday bore ample testimony to the esteem in which she was held. Following Mass Josephine remains were cremated at Lakelands Crematorium Cavan.
To her husband Adie, her daughter Lorraine, her son Gerald, her sister Doreen, grandson Oisín, daughter in law Sarah, Lorraine’s partner Alan, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Annual Day at the Races
The Annual Day at the Galway Races will once again be hosted by the Rathcline Club on Monday 31st July. This is a wonderful day out and a wonderful opportunity to partake in the style and spectacle that is the famous Galway Races. The package will include Racecourse Admission, complimentary car parking, Champagne reception on arrival, Race card and pen, a racing tipster that may be able direct you in the right direction when searching for winners, a Four Course meal, complimentary wines with the meal, Afternoon Tea, Reserved table for the day, Best Dressed lady & Gent competition, after meal entertainment. There will also be full bar facilities and Tote betting facilities.
A bus will be provided if there is sufficient demand.
Tickets cost €150 and for bookings and further information you should contact: Liam Connerton (086) 8776405, Stephen Rooney (086) 3176301, or Kevin Hanley (086) 8908436.
As this event has proven to be hugely successful over the years it is very important that early booking is made to ensure your place at this traditionally fabulous day out.
The graph continues to rise
Over the past two and a half years the rise since her graduating with a degree in Journalism the rise and rise of Maireád Cleary has been nothing short of phenomenal by her quality reporting. We all remember Maireád, daughter of Michael and Marie Cleary, Gardenstown from her time with Shannonside while completing her degree. Her profile has continued to rise at a rapid pace and in the next couple of weeks Maireád will progress to her new job as a TV reporter for Virgin Media News. We wish Maireád every success and happiness in her new role and look forward to seeing her with many breaking news stories in the future.
Sympathy
We extend our deepest sympathy to J.J. Fallon and family, Knock, on the death of his brother Stephen Fallon, Strokestown who passed away on Saturday 20th May.
Death
It was with great sadness we learned of the death at Innis Ree Nursing Home on Friday 19th May of Mary Donlon, Moher. Mary at the end of her 94th year was predeceased some 35 years ago by her late husband Martin, her parents Frank and Bríd and her brother Johnny Quinn. She was a warm and welcoming lady with a word for everybody she encountered. She was a wonderful conversationalist and she enjoyed that chat more with a cup of tea. Mary knowing so many locals had an insatiable appetite for the news of the area and the wellbeing of those she knew. She had a very quick wit laced with many funny and forthright comments. As a homemaker she was very proud of her home in Moher. Mary was a warm, considerate lady who never forgot anyone that needed help or support; she was a tremendous parish lady.
Mary will be very sadly missed by the many people of our community and the mention of her name will evoke smiles and happy memories.
Mary reposed in Farrell’s Funeral Home on Saturday 20th May before being removed to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague. Her Funeral Mass took place on Sunday and was followed by burial in Cloontuskert cemetery. To her nephews Padraic, Sean, niece Bríd, the Donlon and extended families we extend our deepest sympathy.
Divided by the Bridge
We are advised at all times to report to the Gardaí if there are people calling to houses offering to do jobs at very low prices. During last week at least there were at least two calls made complaining of those people in the Strokestown Road area knocking on doors and offering services at low prices.
Two, unanswered calls were made by one person to Roscommon Garda Station and two calls were made to Lanesboro Garda Station where they were advised to call Roscommon Garda Station.
Unbelievably, in the Roscommon Longford Garda Division there is some sort of imaginary line down the Shannon that restricts Lanesboro Gardaí from crossing despite the distance from the caller to the Garda barracks is just 1 mile.
Is this the service from local Gardaí that the people of Ballyleague and the parish of Kilgefin deserve? It is not too long ago than the Lanesboro station went out as far as Moneen on the Roscommon Road.
Is it the service that the people of Lanesboro deserve with, seemingly, one Garda working Lanesboro and no sign of the other Gardaí appointed to Lanesboro? There is still no replacement sergeant since the retirement of Martina Reddington. It appears that the Lanesboro Gardaí have been assigned to do their duty in Longford instead of Lanesboro and the local areas the Lanesboro station serves. This leaves us very open to criminal activity.
It is long after time that our representatives and those with power in our community to make representation to ensure that we as a community on both sides of the bridge are policed in a fair and proper manner.
Following my investigation I was advised that if there are any similar incidents or a need to have a Garda attend any incident that you should dial 999.
Triathlon Club very activity
Last weekend I noticed that the Lanesboro Tri club had club members competing in many parts of the country. It goes to show the local tri community loves to integrate and support tri clubs and community events all over the country.
Last weekend seen members competing at Lough Cutra, Gort, Co. Galway, the tour of Connemara, the famous Ring of Beara cycle, a half marathon in Charlestown, Co. Mayo and also in Carlingford for the Carlingford to Omeath 7km swim in county Louth. It is fabulous to see the club spreading its wings to all corners of Ireland and seeing photos of so many enjoying their achievements. It is no wonder that Lanesboro Tri Club is held in such high regard nationwide.
The Midlands Aquathon begins in Lanesboro on Wednesday next 7th June and it should be another great evening in Lanesboro for the swim and the run. Come along and enjoy seeing all the competitors in action on Wednesday evening.
Rathcline 50/50
On Monday 15th May the Rathcline GAA 50/50 weekly draw took place in the Yacht Bar. This week was another week of successful selling and the winning pool was a wonderful sum of €695. The winning ticket was in the name of Geraldine Greene, Newtowncashel.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night at 7.30pm and your continued generous support is greatly appreciated.
Access for All boat
The Access for All boat is for everybody. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs but you don’t be to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. 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.
The summer sailings are 10am, 12 noon and 2.30pm.
Killashee Parish Cemetery Sunday
Cemetery Sunday masses will take place in the three parish cemeteries on Sunday 11th June beginning with Killashee at 10am, Clondra at 12 noon and Ballinakill at 3pm.
If you have families buried any of the three cemeteries please tend to your family plot in advance of the celebration mass of their lives.
Lough Ree AC
We are delighted to report that the number of children attending the Tuesday evening training session from 6pm to 7pm at the track behind the Community Collage continues to grow. The track was alive with activity as 50 children took part in various age appropriate activities and judging by the feedback from children and parents, all enjoyed the session. The great advantage of Athletics is that is covers, running, jumping, throwing so each child can find an individual event that suits them.
Note to Parents, please remember to register your children with Athletics Ireland via their website www.athleticireland.ie and select option – join a club.
if you have any problems, let us know and we can assist.
Upcoming Events – 10th June AIT Athlone – Connaught Outdoor Children’s Games U9 to U11 and Connaught Outdoor Champs U12 and U13
Local notes inclusion
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 coming weeks notes.
Weekly 25 Drive
The results of the 25 Drive held on Sunday night last in St. Mary’s Parish Hall are: Joint first were Kitty & Jim and Vincent & Sean. Last game winners were Frank & Mick. Raffle winners were Pat Rock, Peter Donlon, Tom Rock and Annie. The game continues every Sunday night at 8.30pm sharp with light refreshments served.
Line Dancing
Line Dancing classes take place every Friday morning 11am at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town.
Line Dancing classes every Sunday at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town for beginners from 6pm to 7pm and Improvers from 7pm to 8pm
Dancing classes takes place in Kilbride, Four Mile House every Tuesday 7pm followed by:
Jive & Waltz classes 8 45pm.
All Ireland Rosary Rally
The All Ireland Rosary Rally will take place in Knock on Saturday next 3rd June from 1pm.
There will be Holy Mass, the Holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a talk by Bishop Oliver Doeme in the Basilica at 1pm.
The main celebrant will be Archbishop Eamon Martin
Day with the Stars extended
Yes, the wonderful and hugely enjoyable Day with the Stars once again returns to Roscommon Racecourse this year only this year it comes with an extension of another day making it a Midsummers Weekend with the Stars. The show will take place on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th June and it promises to be one of the main attractions countrywide this year.
Saturday will see The Tumbling Paddies topping the bill that will also include Ruaile Buaile, Rhythm & Sticks, One for the Road and Paul Kelly Music.
Sunday will feature Derek Ryan Music, Philomena Begley, Jimmy Buckley, Mike Denver, Patrick Feeney, Robert Mizzell, Cliona Hagan, Claudia Buckley, Gerry Guthrie Music, David James Music, and Brendan Jermyn Music along with the award winning Shannonside/Northern Sound Orchestra
Tickets can be bought for either day and there are a limited number of weekend tickets available and they can be bought in O’Brien’s, phone 043 3321107 or email Joe at joeaobrien@outlook.com.
Ballyboro F.C.
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.
Advance Farmers Notice
Farm Plastic Recycling will take place at the St. Faithleach’s GAA grounds on Friday 7th July from 9am until 1pm. The full list and prices are available online at www.farmplastics.ie
Tidy Town’s Lotto stands at €13,500
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns Lottery for Tuesday 30th May stands at €13,500. This is a wonderful opportunity to win a large amount of money for just €2 each envelope or 3 envelopes for €5.
The numbers drawn on Tuesday 23rd May for a jackpot of €13,400 were 3, 8, 14 and 22. There was no winner of the jackpot. The winner of the €50 prize Caroline Gray, c/o Adie’s Bar, and the three €20 prizes went to K & S Mc Govern, c/o O’Brien’s, Therese Kelly c/o O’Brien’s and Mags c/o Mags.
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns committee would like to thank you for your continued generosity and this support is ensuring that Lanesboro continues to look beautiful.
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 continued tremendous support.
Bee Safe Driving School
Congratulations to Vicki Riley who recently set up her new Bee Safe Driving School. Call Vicki on 083 8434538
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.
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of alcoholics are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre building at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral on St. Mel’s Road, any Tuesday evening at 7pm.
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. 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.
Smart Recovery
SMART recovery is an evidence based addiction recovery support group where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour.
There is a meeting every Friday evening from 7pm to 8.30pm in Vita House, Roscommon. For information you should phone Conor 086 1702912 or info@smartrecovery.ie
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
Our New Bishop: Rev. Paul Connell will be consecrated as Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, in St. Mel’s Cathedral, on Sunday 18th June at 3pm.
We wish him every blessing in his new role as Bishop of the Diocese.
Alcohol Anon Meeting: Relatives and friends of those addicted to alcoholare welcome to attend this meeting in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral on any Tuesday evening at 7pm
Communion for Coeliacs: Gluten free hosts are available for all those who need them. Just make it known to the priest that you wish to receive a gluten free host at Holy Communion.
The Parish Hub: Maireád, the Parish Secretary is in her office on Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm. If you want to contact her by phone you can do so during the aforementioned working hours at 3321166. She will help you with any questions or booking related matters.
Speak with a Priest: if you wish to talk with any of the priests you can call into the sacristy after any Mass.
All Ireland Rosary Rally: The All Ireland Rosary Rally will take place in Knock on Saturday next 3rd June from 1pm.
There will be Holy Mass, the Holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a talk by Bishop Oliver Doeme in the Basilica at 1pm.
The main celebrant will be Archbishop Eamon Martin
Talk to the Samaritans: Are you struggling to cope with life? Do you think it would help to talk about your problem in confidence? It does not matter who you are, how you feel or what happened to you. If things are getting you down you can turn to the Samaritans for help. The Samaritans are available on Freephone 116123, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
Alone Volunteers: Would you be willing to provide companionship or make calls to older people once a week? Alone is seeking volunteers in the area. Full training and support will be provided. If you are interest you are asked to sign up at the following address https://alone.ie/volunteers.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@aloone.ie or phone 086 0145 829
Parish contacts
Fr. Merlyn Kenny, Newtowncashel 0860603433 and Fr. Turlough Baxter, Killashee 0879972259 who as you know are assisting in our parish.
Kilgefin Parish
There will be just 3 Masses in the parish for the duration of Fr. Dan’s holidays until 8th June.
Mass in Ballagh on Saturday at 8pm. Mass in Curraghroe on Sunday at 10am. Mass in Ballyleague on Sunday’s at 11am.
For all other enquiries and adjustments on Anniversary Masses please contact parish secretary, Vivienne Barry at kilgefinparish21@gmail.com
Parish Webcam: After deliberation within the Parish Finance committee and the Pastoral Council there is consideration given to the switching off of the Parish webcam in a few months’ time. The decision has been taken due to financial consideration into paying €1,332 annually. Your suggestions and possible solutions will be appreciated.
Jubilee Mass
Fr. Michael Kiernan, a brother of Martha Byrne, Ballyleague, is celebrating his Golden Jubilee in the priesthood. He will be celebrating his Anniversary mass in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Tuesday next 6th June at 7pm. All are welcome.
Revenue Rebate: A gentle reminder to people that has received a revenue form from the parish – please return the completed form to Fr. Dan. The parish has benefitted by almost €6000 per year from Revenue in recent years. People who donated over 250 per year to the parish have received a request to allow the parish to claim a rebate. However, the parish needs the permission of the donor to claim the rebate. Your support in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Ballagh Church: The altar society for Ballagh need people for the month of June if you could spare a few hours to clean the church please email Vivienne Barry on kilgefinparish21@gmail.com or phone 0862626639.
Exam Mass at Knock Shrine
There will be an Exam Mass for all students preparing for exams and their families. Take some time out from your studies for a quiet moment to ask for God’s strength and guidance as you move through your exam period. Bring along your pencil case to have it blessed on Bank Holiday Monday June 5th at 7.30pm in Knock Basilica.
Shannon Gaels
Many congratulations to the Fermoyle National School on their brilliant victory in the Division 1 schools Championship Final on Thursday last in Pearse Park. The beat a very gallant Drumlish NS in what was an enthralling game of a very high standard. We must offer a special word of congratulations to the panel and their management team of Sean McCormack, Ruairí Matthews and Tina Dowd for making this huge breakthrough with their fabulous victory.
Cúl Camp: The Cúl Camps will take place in Clonbonny this year from Monday 17th July to Friday 21st July. Presently this camp is sold out.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Moo Poo?
Where will the Moo Poo fundraiser takes place at St. Faithleachs GAA Club on Monday next 5th June? Tickets are for sale at www.faithleachgaa.ie at all local outlets or by contacting any club member. €1000!!! Cash prize. Great spot prizes on the day also. Be in it to win it!
Underage Training
Underage training takes place every Thursday evening at 18:30 at the pitch. Kids must be over 4 years of age on January 1st 2023. New members and all levels welcome.
Cúl Camps
Cúl Camps return to St. Faithleachs on Monday 3rd July. Book your place now to avoid disappointment.
Volunteers
With the new season underway for our underage teams, the club is seeking volunteers to give a helping hand at trainings and managing teams. If you wish to help out you can contact Tanya O’Rourke or Katie Carberry.
Clubhouse
The Clubhouse will be open every Saturday night from 7pm. Why not come on in for a chat and a bit of craic. Thank you for your continued support.
Waste Metal Collection
The club are carrying out a waste metal collection over the next few weeks. If you wish to have anything collected just contact any club committee member. Any donations greatly appreciated.