Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
Always remembered as a force of nature where she would breeze in and out of your company with her unique nature of sincerity and joviality the passing of Mary Hussey, Lough Ree Park following a short illness brought the community to a standstill. She passed away in Mullingar Regional Hospital on Thursday 27th March. Mary was predeceased by her husband Jimmy, just over five years ago and by her parents Joe and Mary. Born and raised, Mary Finnegan, in Dublin Street, Longford Town, she was a child of ‘old Longford Town’ and her love of her times growing up there was a great sense of pride to her. Many conversations we had remembering ‘old Longford’ and the many tales were indeed brilliant. As I mentioned earlier Mary was a force of nature and her enthusiastic and boundless energy ensured that nobody was left behind by her exuberance. Smiling, happy, loyal, cheerful, kind, caring and helpful are just a few of the many superlatives that will always be used when remembering Mary. We all know the immense pride to her son Jonathan and daughter Chloe and the lengths she went in supporting both those young people are legendary. Mary’s job was as a carer and her kind and caring nature ensured that those she cared for got the very best of care throughout her time with them –she went above and beyond ensuring that they were cared for properly. She was a wonderful community person, always inspirational and encouraging, whether it was the school involvement, St. Faithleach’s club, the scouts, Ballyboro and many other organisations that she lent a hand in supporting. Mary’s passing leaves behind many many sad hearts, lots of happy memories and her legacy of love and respectfulness will live long in our hearts.
The attendance at her reposing ar her home in Lough Ree Park on Monday 31st and again at her Funeral Mass on Tuesday in her beloved St. Mel’s Cathedral bore ample testimony to the esteem in which she was held. Following Mass, Mary was laid to rest in Ballymacormack Cemetery.
To her son Jonathan, her daughter Chloe, her sister Letitia, her brothers Joe and John, extended family, relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Visit Corlea in 2025
Right on our doorstep and visited during 2024 by almost 20,000, up by more than 5,000 from 2023, 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 an ideal place to bring 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.
Ciaran seeks alternative use for Power Station
A few months ago, Ciaran Mullooly, our local MEP, invited a number of people to a meeting to see if there were any ideas for the community following the closure of the Lough Ree Power Station and the consequently the degeneration of the workforce on Bord na Mona. The meeting threw up a good number of ideas that could lead to the area once again being the major job hub not just for Lanesboro and Ballyleague but also for the counties of Longford and Roscommon.
As a result of the meeting Ciaran has met and had discussions with Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) who have a large vacant site adjoining the power station and he also met last week with power stations site owners ESB.
Ciaran took the ideas put forwards at the original meeting to the Technological University of the Shannon Athlone and other experts to scrutinize, determine the quality and rate the viability of the proposals. A result of this scoping is imminent and Ciaran is very confident that a number of the ideas will prove to be viable.
He will be meeting with the Government in the coming days where he will be seeking the retention of the Power Station for alternative use in the creation of many new jobs.
While Ciaran’s Midlands – North – West constituency is enormous, consisting of 15 counties, it is wonderful to see that his own home community is ranking highly as a priority towards regeneration and development of new and worthwhile projects.
We look forward to hearing from Ciaran the outcome of the scope and look forward to seeing some of the proposals go forward for major consideration and potential development.
Family Day and Gaelforce Combine
Excitement is starting to build for Friday 16th and Saturday 17th May that has the prospect of being some of the biggest days ever in Lanesboro and Ballyleague when the communities come together along with Gaelforce for should be a fabulous day on the banks of the Shannon. Friday evening will be a gentle introduction into what will be a very special day of events on Saturday.
Last year we saw the Tidy Towns committees of both Lanesboro and Ballyleague come together to stage, with outstanding success, their inaugural Family Day in the area between the car park and small marina. This year the two committees have, again, come together with the support of all local clubs and associations to join with Gaelforce for what should be an utterly fantastic day on the banks of the Shannon.
This is a day embraced by the community groups and we welcome everyone from far and wide to come along and join with us for this very special day.
For those that don’t know, Gaelforce is a family-owned Irish company, based in Leenane, Co. Galway. Their mission is to seek out new challenges to bring the best of adventure racing to Ireland. They design, build and run all their own events. You just won’t find challenges or locations like this anywhere else! They have come back to Lanesboro/Ballyleague this year for the Great River Swim that, looking at their entry list, is attracting swimmers of all abilities from all over the country for this great challenge.
For the Gaelforce Great River Swim there will be four swims over distances of 800m, 3.5km, 5.8km, (you will need to be a confident and experienced open water swimmer to compete at this distance) and the extreme distance of 12km where the race director will determine whether you are eligible to take this extreme distance. See the entry regulations and entry forms on https://gaelforceevents.com/en/gaelforce-events-enter-now
With everybody coming together this will be, without doubt, another very special day and one of the very best events in Lanesboro/Ballyleague on the banks of the glorious Shannon and there should be something to interest everybody.
At the moment great work is going on behind the scenes in building the programme of events by the three groups and it will be fascinating. Make the date in your diary and look out for future notices as we draw closer to the main event.
Make sure you mark the dates in your diary and along with your family and friends you can be on the banks of the Shannon for another marvellous day in Lanesboro
Annual 25 Drive
On Good Friday18th April the annual fundraising Good Friday Card Drive (partners) will take place in St. Mary’s Hall, Lanesboro. The games are scheduled to start at 8.30pm.
This is the annual event hosted by the Shannon Gaels Minor Club and it is also one of their main fundraisers towards the encouragement and development of all the underage footballers and hurlers in the Rathcline club. Your support since the inception of this game has been fantastic and once again we encourage you and your friends to come along and enjoy a great evening of card playing and the associated fun that goes along with the game of cards.
If you would like to support the club even if you are not card players you can buy a ticket in from club members or from O’Brien’s costing €10. This ticket ensures that you are in the draw for the numerous prizes drawn on the night. The €10 ticket also allows card players to participate in the partners 25 drive. Please be as supportive as possible.
Easter Bake Sale
Lanesborough Primary School Parents Association will be holding an Easter Bake sale in the Parish Hub, St. Mary’s Parochial House following 11am Mass on Easter Sunday morning. There will be a host of beautiful bakes avail for purchase. The funds collected will go towards much needed children supports at the school.
Church Parking Letter
Last Tuesday morning I received an email from a resident in Ballyleague. Her email was in relation to parking during mass times at Ballyleague church. This lady is caring for her mother who is in a wheelchair and she says that the parking on the footpaths on both sides of the road is causing a great nuisance. She says that parking on the footpath has increased and it is impossible to get through with her mother when trying to access the town be it for leisure walks or shopping. She has asked that people be more responsible when parking their cars in the area of the church and be conscious of those with reduced mobility when you are parking your car.
Lanesboro ICA
The Lanesboro Guild of the ICA will hold its April meeting in the Parish Hub on this Wednesday 9th April at 7.45pm. Following the meeting the AGM will follow at 9.15pm. New members are always welcome to join.
Thank You
The Lanesboro Guild would like to thank all who supported our recent Walk in Pink Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research. Total amount raised €555. Your support is very much appreciated.
Sympathy
We would like to extend to Joan and Alan Farrell, their family and extended family, Ballyleague and the Yacht Bar on the death of Joan’s nephew Ben Daithí Mahon, Banagher, Co. Offaly at the tender age of 11years. Ben Daithí was laid to rest following his Funeral Mass in St. Rynagh’s Cemetery on Thursday
New Classroom at Lanesboro Primary
On Friday morning last there was a hive of activity at Lanesboro Primary School, formerly the girls NS with machinery moving in to commence the building of a new classroom. This classroom is specially designed to cater for children dealing with autism. As we all know autistic children find it hard to communicate and interact with other people. They find it hard to understand how other people think or feel. They find things like bright lights or loud noises overwhelming, stressful or uncomfortable and they get anxious or upset about unfamiliar situations and social events. The new classroom will bring all the needs that the children require to aid them in conquering some or all of the everyday things that we find natural but they find distressing and uncomfortable. When completed this new modular built classroom will add greatly to what Lanesboro Primary School has to offer those young kids that have to deal with autism. The new built classroom has a completion date of June making it ready for the new school year.
Farmer of the Year
Recently local man Mervyn Johnston was awarded the title of the 2024 Irish Hereford Prime Farmer of the Year. This is a terrific accolade to a man who farmers so well and works so hard in developing his Hereford stock for beef production.
Farming the family Johnston land in Curreen on the banks of the River Shannon, Mervyn farms the land with a passion and he has a great aptitude for top class quality farming something that is a trait that runs deep in the Johnston family history.
Parking issues again
Once again, I have to raise the issue of parking in the Green estate and complete and total disrespect to the residents of the estate. On Saturday night last the parking on both sides of the narrow roads into the Green were virtually blocked causing great hardship for local residents. Thankfully there was no need for an emergency vehicle to enter last Saturday evening but if they had to they would not have been able. Please, do not park on both sides of the roads nor on the grass in the estate and absolutely no parking on either side of the road at the three entrances and leave it completely clear for traffic as parking causes blockage at these points this causes great distress for everybody trying to enter and leave. This has been an enduring problem with last Saturday evening being one of the worst times ever witnessed.
Church Parking Letter
Last Tuesday morning I received an email from a resident in Ballyleague. Her email was in relation to parking during mass times at Ballyleague church. This lady is caring for her mother who is in a wheelchair and she says that the parking on the footpaths on both sides of the road is causing a great nuisance. She says that parking on the footpath has increased and it is impossible to get through with her mother when trying to access the town be it for leisure walks or shopping. She has asked that people be more responsible when parking their cars in the area of the church and be conscious of those with reduced mobility when you are parking your car.
Historic Victory
Pictured below is the historic winning squad of 2025
Last week the Shannon Gael Féile team made history for the club when they won the county final with a wonderfully spirited display in the final victory in Drumlish where they overcame St. Vincent’s Drumlish to become the first team from the club to win the county Féile. The team have qualified for the finals of the John West Féile na nÓg finals that will be held throughout the county of Derry on the weekend of 27th June.
The historic winning panels is Jack Cassidy, David Kenny, Darragh Donlon, Adam Greally, Donncha Farrell, Alfie Murphy, Tom Hession, Shane Farrell, Tim Kenny, Josh Curran, Ethan Donnellan, Oisin Dillon, Darragh Shanley, Kyle Rice, Matthew Murphy, Stephen Farrell, Michael Hogan, Patrick Casey, Andrew Nolan, Luke O’Halloran, Darragh McGloin, Joe Greally, Cathal Hanley, Malachy Martin and Cían Shea.
Ironically as strange as it may seem this winning team will not be the first team to represent the club and parish in the Féile na nÓg finals. Back 1982 a Féile competition, the brainchild of Fintan Tierney, Butlersbridge, Co. Cavan came to pass when 40 teams (20 Cavan and 20 others) came together for Finals in Cavan. Shannon Gaels were nominated to represent Longford and they did the club, parish and county proud with some great displays. On top of their performances Enda Casey won both the long kick and free taking competitions that took place over that weekend.
Pictured below is the 1982 panel with the late Huge Keane and player Peter Gillen holding the club banner.
VHI Mini Marathon
On Sunday 1st June the Ladies Mini Marathon will take place in Dublin. A bus is being organised from Lanesboro in memory of the late Pam Farrell, who for many years organised a bus taking locals to the Mini Marathon and funds raised will go to the Cancer Society. If you would like to avail of the bus you are asked to contact Martha on 087 2638593 or Una on 086 8929402 for further details.
Repairs at the Sensory Garden
During the past week repair and clean up began at the new sensory garden that was ravaged by Storm Éowyn that struck on Friday 24th January. Prior to the storm the Sensory Garden, located off Main Street behind Lanesbrew, had just received funding that would have seen the final enhancements taking place and the major undertaking completed. Storm Éowyn ensured that all the work had to be redone and even some of the trees on the site were pulled from their roots such was the turmoil it created. Following this setback it will now take some time to see the Sensory Garden completed to the standard envisaged. There is no doubt but the creator and visionary of the Sensory Garden, Stephen Dowd, will see his vision completely rebuilt and it will be a major benefit and attraction to the town. The tranquillity the Sensory Garden will offer , no doubt, a tremendous place of refuge and a haven to those seeking their own quiet moments.
18 Stones up the Hill
This is another publication by local Ballyleague resident Andrew Knowles who this time comes to the wicket with this his new publication. As anyone that knows Andrew he has a great passion for his native English game of cricket. Andrew takes you through the dressing rooms, pitches and unforgettable moments of club crickets. In the book Andrew displays a keen eye for detail recounting the warmth and humour throughout his career from a junior player to a senior player. There is no doubt that Andrew’s portrayal is laced with many great and humorous stories. The book is a great read even for those not au fait with cricket. For just €10 the book on sale in O’Brien’s is a must.
Charity Tractor Run
A Charity Tractor run in memory of one of our finest young men will take place on Sunday next 13th April. A young farming graduate Jimmy is sadly missed in our community and this Tractor Run is a fitting acknowledgement to Jimmy’s memory.
Jimmy’s passion was for farming and it is very fitting that tractors and machinery will gather in the Clonbonny area beside the Clonbonny graveyard and rathcline GAA pitch, where Jimmy is laid to rest, and the Rathcline GAA club. Registration costing €20 will take place at the clubhouse from 12 noon with the roll out of tractors at 2pm.
The proceeds of the Run will go to HUGG
Junior Certificate History
An intensive Junior Certificate History revision course will take place in Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon on Friday 25th April. The course will take place from 9.30am to 3.30pm. A revision booklet will be supplied and a booking deposit is required. For further information and bookings call Rosie 086 3844320
Henry Kenny Memorial on Sunday
A memorial game of football in memory of the late Henry Kenny, will take place at the St. Faithleach’s grounds on Sunday 13th April, Henry was a stalwart for his home club of Cashel throughout his playing career and following his moving to Cloontuskert he gave his adopted club unbelievable allegiance and he quickly became a feature of the club no matter what they were doing. He never shirked hard work and could be seen doing any of the menial jobs at any time or meeting and greeting dignitaries or working with teams on the same day. No job was too big or too small for Henry.
It is fitting that both St. Faithleach’s and Cashel will play a game in the memory of this great man at the St. Faithleach’s grounds on Sunday 13th April. Events will throw in at 2.30 with a kid’s game followed by St. Faithleach’s against Cashel at 4pm.
The proceeds of the day’s event will go to Cancer Research and Cloontuskert Cemetery, Following the game there will be music, refreshments and a raffle in the clubhouse. Everyone is invited to come along to support the memory of Henry and the two very worthy causes.
Nursing Staff for Lourdes Pilgrimage
Those interested in joining as a nursing staff member for the Diocesan Pilgrimage are asked to contact Maireád in the parish office (3321166) or contact the nursing director Margaret McDonald at 086 3918577.
Charity Tractor and Truck Run
Come the month of May and especially the 15th we always remember the death of one of our own young men. Owen Kelly, son of Eugene and Mary Kelly, Rathcline Road passed away following an accident. The celebrate the memory and 20th Anniversary of Owen’s passing there will be a Tractor and Truck Run commencing in Newtowncashel on Sunday 18th May at 2.30pm. All the proceeds will be shared with the National Rehabilitation Centre and the Head Injury Unit at Beaumont Hospital. Mark the date in your diary and come out and celebrate the memory of Owen.
Pilgrim’s Path
As part of the Jubilee Year Celebrations 2025, we are invited to visit 3 Shrines in the Diocese, St Manchain’s Church, Boher, Ballycumber, Co Offaly. St. Mel’s Cathedral, Longford and the Poor Clare Convent, Drumshambo, Co Leitrim, to celebrate Faith, Hope and Love. These trips can be a personal visit or with a group. It is hoped to have a bus trip from Longford to St. Manchain’s Church, Boher on Monday 5th May. ‘Passports’ for the trip are available in St Mary’s Church and also in all of the 3 churches listed and are stamped at each church visited. Anyone interested in travelling on the bus should telephone St Mel’s Presbytery on 043 3346465 for further details.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The Ardagh/Clonmacnois annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from Friday 30th May to Wednesday 4th June. This is an ideal way to treat your mother to a very special trip and you can use the gift as a Mother’s Day present. Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30th March. For details you should contact JWT for flight details. Those who need assistance, contact 0863918577.
Defibrillator Course
Ballagh/Curraghroe defibrillator committee would like to invite anyone in the Kilgefin parish to complete a defibrillator course and if they could contact Danny Cox 086 8142112 or Jean Fallon 086 8320019 to be added for the course. The list, for this vital and potential lifesaving ability, will be compiled with your support over the coming weeks.
Lanesboro Triathlon News
Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon: Entries are now open for the 2025 Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon. The event of the year in Lanesboro and Ballyleague will take place on Saturday 12th July.
Tidy Towns lottery
Your continued support is a great encouragement to the committee who can now plot and plan greater improvements in and around the town for 2025.
There was no winner of the Lottery draw on 25th March and the €15,000 remains to be won at the next draw. The winner of the €50 prize was 3, 14, 16 and 23. There was nobody with the good fortune to have the correct four numbers drawn out and the jackpot of €15,000 remained for the next draw on 8th April. The winner of the €50 prize was Gerard Heneghan, Rathcline Road c/o The Yacht Bar and the three €20 prize winners were Pat Connerton, c/o XLNTEE, Kevin Murray c/o Mags and Philomena Walsh, Rathcline Road..
The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on this Tuesday 8th April. 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.
Weekly Card Game
The results of Sunday night 23rd March game held in the Parish are joint 1st were Petey Donlon & Kay Featherstone and P.J. & Bridie Glennon. Last game winners were Seamus Casey & Aidan Carly. Raffle winners were Peggy Moran, Niall Hughes, Noel McDermott and Tom Rooney. New card players will always be welcome. Light refreshments are always served. All card players are reminded that there is a 25 partners game in the Local pub, Newtowncashel every Monday night at 8.30 pm sharp with proceeds after prizes going to Cancer Care. Your support would be appreciated.
Coaching continues for game of 25
There was a great response to the new initiative of coaching for new players or those who want to refresh their game skills of 25 in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse. Training will continue every Tuesday night at 8.30pm. This is separate from the regular game and everyone is welcome to go along and enjoy the casual learning the skills of 25.
Rathcline 50/50
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 1st April. The winning pool amounted to an exciting €634. The winner of the draw was Derek Murray Curraghrua. 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.
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
Memory Café
Roscommon Dementia Alliance hosts a monthly café in Lough Key, Forest Park, Boyle to help support people affected by dementia, their families and carers. This month’s event takes place on Wednesday the 16th of April, 2 – 4pm and will include music, song, advice and a chat. If you would like to attend please visit www.roscommondementia.ie or contact Teresa Keegan on 0877061183 for more information.
Céilí Dancing
Are you interested in perfecting your Céilí Dancing or just want to learn the Céilí steps? Ceili Dancing will take place in Cloonycolgan Community Centre, Donamon every Tuesday evening at 8.30pm under the guidance of Kevin Kelly. Traditional Irish dances are taught from beginners to completion. Everyone is welcome. Beginners get special attention.
Cemetery Sunday – Very Important Advance Notice
I have just been informed there will be significant changes to the dates and times of the Blessing of the Graves (Cemetery Sunday) at our three cemeteries in 2025.
On Saturday 12th July there will be 6.30pm Mass in St. Mary’s Church followed by the Blessing of the Graves at St. John’s cemetery.
On Sunday 13th July there will be NO 11am Mass in the Church. Mass in Clonbonny Cemetery will take place at 1pm. Later in the day 14th Mass will take place at Rathcline Cemetery at 6pm.
The Sunday schedule is weather dependant and if the weather is inclement Masses will take place in St. Mary’s Church.
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 11:30am 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.
Line Dancing For All
They say that Line Dancing, stimulates the brain, reduces stress, reduces risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, increases mental capacity, improves posture and balance, tones the body, strengthens bones and muscles, provides opportunity to socialize and meet people and its suitable and popular for all ages and all abilities.
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
Dance classes takes place in Kilbride, Four Mile House every Tuesday 7pm followed by:
Jive & Waltz classes 8 45pm.
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.
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 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.
Penance Service: A Penance Service will be held in St. Mary’s Church on Sunday next, Palm Sunday, 13th April at 7pm with visiting priests attending.
Scripture Studies: A group of people meet in the Prayer room following 10am Mass every Wednesday during the period of Lent. They take a closer look at the Scripture Readings for the coming Sunday. It takes about 30 minutes and it really brings the Gospel to life! All are welcome.
Cemetery Sunday changes: On Saturday 12th July 2025 there will be 6.30pm Mass in St. Mary’s Church followed by the Blessing of the Graves at St. John’s cemetery.
On Sunday 13th July there will be NO 11am Mass in the Church. Mass in Clonbonny Cemetery will take place at 1pm. Later in the day 13th Mass will take place at Rathcline Cemetery at 6pm.
The Sunday schedule is weather dependant and if the weather is inclement Masses will take place in St. Mary’s Church.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes: The Ardagh and Clonmacnois Lourdes Pilgrimage 2025 will be led by Bishop Paul Connell, is open for booking now. It will take place from May 30th – June 4th costing from €969. For more details contact Joe Walsh Tours at 01-2410800 or email – info@joewalshtours.ie . Pilgrims who would like to travel with the Special Assisted Section should apply to Margaret McDonald on 086 3918577. Those interested in joining as a Nursing Staff Member for the Pilgrimage are asked to contact their local parish or the Pilgrimage Matron – Margaret McDonald on 086 3918577.
Adoration: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues on Tuesday’s in the Prayer Room
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Confession time in the Prayer Room takes place on the first Friday of each month from 6.30pm to 7pm.The next opportunity is on Friday 2nd May.
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.iee
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
New Choir Members: Kilgefin/Scramogue choir is currently recruiting new singers and musicians as they continue to develop their popular choir. You are asked to contact Amanda 086607 1281 or speak to any of the current members of the choir to express your interest.
Stations of the Cross: During the Lenten season everyone is encouraged to journey with Christ through his Paschal Mystery by praying the Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross will be at weekends of Lent 30 minutes before Mass for the convenience of all. Ballyleague – 11am, Ballagh – Saturday at 7pm
Lenten Retreat Day: As part of the spiritual preparation for the Paschal Mystery of Christ at Easter, all parishioners are invited to ‘A Day Retreat and Confessions on Saturday week 12th April from 11am to 2pm in Ballyleague Church. There will recitation of the Holy Rosary, Adoration and a Spiritual talk by a guest speaker. Several priests will be available for your individual Confessions. Come and be blessed.
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.
Defibrillator Course: Ballagh/Curraghroe defibrillator committee would like to invite anyone in the Kilgefin parish or surrounding areas to complete a defibrillator course and if they could contact Danny Cox 086 8142112 or Jean Fallon 086 8320019 to be added for the course. The list, for this vital and potential lifesaving ability, will be compiled with your support over the coming weeks.
ALONE needs volunteers: Would you be willing to provide companionship or make friendly calls to an older person in your community? The commitment is for one hour per week. ALONE is seeking volunteers and if you can give just one hour we encourage you to do so. Full training and support will be provided. If you are interested please sign up at https://a lone.ie/volunteers/ For more information contact Helena: Helena.madden@alone.ie phone 086 0145829
25 Coaching: Coaching for new players or those who want to refresh their game skills of 25 will take place in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse every Tuesday at 8.30pm. This is separate from the regular game and everyone is welcome
St. Faithleach’s GAA
25 Card Game
There is a 25 Card Game every Tuesday at 8.30pm in the clubhouse. There is a separate coaching for beginners every Tuesday in February at 8.30pm. All welcome #
Clubhouse Available
The clubhouse is available if you wish to book a party in our function room. We cater for all occasions. Please contact Gerry Donlon or any committee member if you wish to make a booking.
Volunteers
As the underage season is fast approaching we are actively seeking any parents or club members who are willing to volunteer and give a hand at our underage trainings and matches. If you are interested please contact Steve Smith or any committee member. Thank you.
Memorial Match: The Henry Kenny Memorial Match will take place on Sunday April from 2:30pm at the club grounds in Ballyleague. A wonderful day of football, where Henry’s two clubs, St. Faithleachs and Cashel take to the field. Also some live music and refreshments in the clubhouse afterwards. All donations are going towards Cloontuskert Cemetery and Cancer Research. Please come along and support this worthy cause and to remember Henry.
County Reps: Well done to Ciaráin and Diarmuid Murtagh on reaching Connacht Semi Final after a convincing victory over London in the opening round on Saturday last. Well done to Sophie Cox and the Roscommon U16 ladies on beating Leitrim in Round 2 of Connacht Championship.
Membership: All membership is now due. Please contact Ursula Kenny if you have a problem with your Foireann account. If you are not registered, you’re not covered to play.
Underage: Underage training is starting back this Thursday at 6.30pm. U6s, U8s and U10s. U6 is for children born in 2019 and 2020. All levels welcome and new members welcome. Please contact and committee member for further information.
Congratulations: Congratulations to Paddy and Ellen Farrell on the recent birth of their daughter Roisín Annie Farrell.