1) 0ms,border-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:background-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;color:#1976d2;padding:0px;min-width:0;}.css-1sgza6o:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;background-color:rgba(25 0.04);}@media (hover: none){.css-1sgza6o:hover{background-color:transparent;}}.css-1sgza6o.Mui-disabled{color:rgba(0 1) 0ms;color:#1976d2;padding:0px;min-width:0;}.css-w5p45x::-moz-focus-inner{border-style:none;}.css-w5p45x.Mui-disabled{pointer-events:none;cursor:default;}@media print{.css-w5p45x{-webkit-print-color-adjust:exact;color-adjust:exact;}}.css-w5p45x:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;background-color:rgba(25 0.04);}@media (hover: none){.css-w5p45x:hover{background-color:transparent;}}.css-w5p45x.Mui-disabled{color:rgba(0 0.26);}PrintShareSaveThe death has occurred of Predeceased by her beloved husband Michael Kitty is sadly missed and remembered with love by her heartbroken family May Kitty's Gentle Soul Rest in the Peace She So Richly Deserves Kitty will repose in The Sharkey Funeral Home on Sunday evening (4th May) from 4pm until 7pm Removal from her home on Monday morning to St Asicus’ Church arriving for Mass of the Resurrection at 11am Burial afterwards in Cloonshanville Cemetery Kitty's Funeral Mass will be live-streamed on the Mahon and O’Dowd and can be accessed by following this link Kitty's Funeral Mass can be made to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice or the North West Hospice by following these links Mayo Roscommon Hospice North West Hospice Messages of sympathy may be expressed through the condolence section below. Funeral Service.css-h76uj{display:inherit;margin-right:-4px;margin-left:8px;}Date Published: CondolencesDonate to CharityWould you like to mark a birthday memorial mass or anniversary for a Loved One?You can now create a family notice on RIP.ie to remember your loved one Roscommon The passing of Kathleen 'Kitty' Lavin in Frenchpark, Co Roscommon, has been described as 'a terrible tragedy' An elderly woman who died in a road tragedy in Frenchpark, Co Roscommon, has been named locally as Kathleen ‘Kitty’ Lavin. Ms Lavin (89) was killed after she was struck by a truck at the junction of the N5 and R361 at approximately 4.45pm on Thursday afternoon (May 1). She was pronounced dead at the scene before being removed to Galway University Hospital. The road where the incident occurred has reopened to traffic. Ms Lavin hails from a well-known local family and has a son involved in agricultural contracting. Her funeral details have yet to be announced. Local Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane described her passing as ‘a terrible tragedy’. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the collision which claimed her life to come forward. Any road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the Frenchpark area between 4.30pm and 5.00pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. WeatherCooler temperatures for bank holiday weekend but dry, bright weather to continueThe bank holiday weekend will see cooler temperatures than recent days, though there will be plenty of sunshine and dry spells. Sign up now to keep up to date with the latest news. You are subscribed now! please check your email to confirm your subscription. Roscommon's most read weekly newspaper It has been eight weeks since a group of concerned citizens in Ballaghaderreen began protesting against Roscommon County Council’s planned ‘Public Realm Enhancement Works’, which resulted in the stoppage of the works. Last Monday, a group of protestors picketed the monthly plenary meeting of the local authority. Those present voiced their concerns to county councillors before and after the meeting. Since a public meeting attended by hundreds of demonstrators in Ballaghaderreen, a number of weeks ago, opponents of the plan have been lobbying the local authority to make changes to it. Last week, Dara Calleary, the Minister with responsibility for rural regeneration, whose department granted Roscommon County Council funding for the works, called for a compromise to be reached on the issue. However, at Monday’s meeting, Director of Services at Roscommon County Council Mark Keaveney said that while the council executive has always been open to discussions on the project, he was reiterating the local authority’s stated position that once the Part 8 planning for the project in Ballaghaderreen was approved by the elected members of the Boyle Municipal District, it could not be amended. Despite the legal advice, Roscommon County Council has committed to engaging in mediation talks in a bid to resolve the dispute. Protestors told the Roscommon People that the mediation process should have started much sooner. Pictured at a farewell presentation by the parish of Loughglynn/Lisacul/ Gorthaganny to Fr. Glenn Alipoyo were Angela Cahill, Fr Glenn, Georgina Keena, Chairperson Parish Pastoral Council and Paddy Johnston, Chairperson Loughglynn NS Board of Management. Pic. Liam Reynolds James Creaton, Canon Liam Devine, Fr. Glenn and Anthony Cahill at a farewell presentation by the parish of Loughglynn/Lisacul/ Gorthaganny to Fr. Glenn. Pic: Liam ReynoldsDuring his time in West Roscommon he became a cherished member of the community offering pastoral and spiritual support. Sign up to our newsletter for updates on Roscommon news, sport, community notes and more Sign up now to keep up to date with the latest news please check your email to confirm your subscription A ONE million euro plus Greenway route through a famous bog close to Ballyforan village on the Galway/Roscommon border was officially opened recently by Minister of State The 3.1 kilometre Ballyforan Greenway is a shared walkway and cycleway loop through a section of the 250-acre Derryfada Bog which takes in parts of Galway and Roscommon The Greenway project – on the Bord na Móna owned bog – has been funded mainly from the EU’s Just Transition Fund which was set up to assist areas most affected by the ‘move away’ from peat based electricity generation Local public representatives have welcomed the Greenway project describing it as ‘a game-changer’ for the community in the greater Ballyforan area that the Greenway was already attracting hundreds of visitors to the area “It really is a wonderful facility for the area which will be a tremendous boost for the local community The local committee [The Ballyforan Area Transition Team BATT] has really worked hard to make this happen over the past five years,” said Cllr The BATT committee are raising €150,000 as part of the local contribution required to see the €1.1 million project through and have now launched a dedicated ‘Sponsors Wall’ at the site containing two lines of text with the name and townland of the donor Minister of State at the Department of Environment praised the voluntary efforts and dedication of the local community when officially opening the Greenway on Friday last then officially launched the Ballyforan Feasibility Study in the local hall which sets out a roadmap for the village’s future in terms of services and viability took eight months to construct and also includes a 20-space car-park Newly elected Roscommon Senator Gareth Scahill who attended last Friday’s opening of the Greenway told the Connacht Tribune that the project was a fitting reward for the efforts of the local community in sustaining and growing their own area “I think that anyone who was here last Friday will have seen how well this project has turned out – it is a credit to all involved and is worthy of all the support that it gets,” said Senator Scahill co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union aims ‘to establish sustainable ways of supporting the livelihoods of communities around Ireland’s raised bogs while helping those natural habitats to recover and thrive’ ■ Anyone wishing to purchase a fund-raising brick for the Ballyforan Greenway can do by visiting:  https://www.idonate.ie/forms/BallyforanGreenway Pictured at the official opening of the Ballyforan Greenway were who officially opened the Greenway; and Cllr © Copyright 2023 - Ourside Agency Kitty Passed away peacefully at home on the 5th of May 2025 Pre-deceased by her husband Michael A (Foncy) Bridie and Francie and her son-in-law Con McLoone Kitty will repose at O’Connor’s Funeral Home Removal on Wednesday evening to the church of SS Eithne and Fidelma Funeral mass on Thursday 8th May at 12 noon Family flowers only please. Donations in Kitty’s memory can be made to Roscommon Hospice https://www.hospice.ie/ Kitty’s mass will be live streamed, link to the mass to follow Rip.ie, The Irish Times Building, 24-28 Tara Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Gardaí have issued an appeal for any information about the cattle.  A farmer reported to gardaí that when he left his rented farm at Ballyglass, Ballymacurly on April 11th at 5.30 p.m., there were five bullocks in a pen in the slatted shed. When he returned at the same time the following evening, two of the bullocks were gone. Gardaí in Roscommon are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious, have any information in relation to this theft or have been offered animals for sale in unusual circumstances to contact Roscommon Garda Station on 090 6638300 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Local Crime Prevention Officer Damian Bartley advised farmers to check on their cattle regularly and report any suspicious activity to Gardaí. In relation to providing CCTV at remote locations, a 4G solar powered security camera is a mobile security device that connects to the internet through cellular networks rather than WiFi. Powered by the sun, it stores solar energy in an internal rechargeable battery, allowing completely wire-free operation. Through a built-in SIM card, this security camera can transmit video streams, motion alerts, and two-way audio to monitoring apps using 4G LTE signals. This makes it ideal for remote locations lacking power lines or WiFi access. TRIBUTES continue to be paid to a pedestrian who was killed in a road crash in Frenchpark on Thursday evening Kitty Lavin Mullen, 89, from Frenchpark, Roscommon died after being struck by a truck in the west Roscommon village It happened at the junction of the N5 and the R361 in Frenchpark at around 4.45pm which was close to her home Locals said Kitty, who was a widow, was originally from Strokestown but had moved to Frenchpark after she got married She was involved in a number of committees and societies in the area One said: "A lovely lady …always up for a chat it’s just so sad my heart goes out to all her family." She is survived by her sons Pat and Gerry, her daughter Martina Langan. Kitty will repose in The Sharkey Funeral Home, Frenchpark, on Sunday evening (May 4) from 4pm until 7pm. Removal from her home on Monday morning to St Asicus’ Church, Frenchpark, arriving for Mass of the Resurrection at 11am. Cops are appealing for witnesses to come forward Any road users who may have footage and were travelling in the area between 4.30pm and 5pm are asked to make the footage available to gardai Anyone with any information is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094 962 1630 the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 Tributes poured in online for the Roscommon woman One person said: "Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the Lane and Lavin families on the tragic and sudden death of Kitty "May she rest in Heavenly peace in her eternal home with the Lord." Another said: "Deepest sympathy to the Lavin /Lane family members at this devastating time "You are all in our thoughts and prayers One mourner shared: " She was a wonderful woman and we are saddened at her tragic passing "You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this heartbreaking time While another added: "Rest in Peace Kitty "Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time." Roscommon will face Kerry in their opening game of this year’s All-Ireland championship Kerry’s 4-20 to 21-point Munster final victory over Clare sealed their place in group two with Roscommon and Cork The Leinster runners-up are the second seed team Roscommon will travel to Kerry on the weekend of May 18th for their opening group game Davy Burke’s side will host Meath or Louth on the June bank holiday weekend Roscommon will face Cork in a neutral venue two weeks later to round out the group phase Kerry’s victory also decided that Clare will enter group three with Monaghan Whereas, Galway’s two point win over Mayo means Galway will enter the group of death in group four with Donegal or Armagh, Dublin and Derry. Mayo are now confirmed in group one with Tyrone, Cavan and the Ulster champions. A new sports park in north Roscommon is expected to be opened within the next month. The facility in Arigna includes an AstroTurf pitch, with a walkway and public lighting. It also includes a newly paved and surfaced pedestrian plaza, seating, flower boxes and beds. Local councillor Leah Cull says it's a very exciting time for the area. The sale of Kilmurry National School has been closed. The former Kilmurry National School, Castleplunkett, is steeped in history. “The property gives the new owners the opportunity to create a stunning family home on a site are of approximately one acre and an overall size of 2,400 sq.ft.,” said the auctioneer. The building has five spacious rooms, offering a range of possibilities for the future owner. “This former school may be eligible for the vacant property refurbishment grant, providing the perfect opportunity for the new owner to transform this property into a beautiful family home. “Congratulations and best of luck to the new owners,” added the auctioneer. RE/MAX Team Earley are now seeking residential properties in the Castleplunkett area for disappointed underbidders. For further details or to arrange a free consultation, contact RE/MAX Team Earley, Stone Court Roscommon on 090 66 26579 , or Cathal on 086 1409158 email teamearley@remax.ie or log onto www.teamearley.ie Roscommon County Council has confirmed funding of €75,000 for the maintenance of cemeteries as part of its annual budget. The local authority received online applications from over 90 voluntary groups with requests for funding for ongoing maintenance and improvements. Roscommon County Council introduced an online application system for the Cemetery Improvement and Maintenance Scheme for 2025. A total of 92 groups applied for funding under the scheme including 27 from the Athlone Local Electoral Area, 38 from Boyle LEA and 27 from the Roscommon LEA. Drum Cemetery, Strokestown Cemetery, Cloontuskert, and Kilteevan Old Graveyard committees are among 11 groups to receive the maximum allocation of €2,000. Ardcarne Parish Graveyards Committee, meanwhile, is set to receive a total of €4,000 for Kileenan Cemetery and Ardcarne Graveyards. Other notable recipients are Moore Community Council who will receive €2,000 for Moore Cemetery and €1,120 for Kilbegley Cemetery. The total allocation of €75,000 was agreed as part of the local authority's budget for 2025. A disposable barbecue was placed in one of the bins at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park last night, setting it on fire. Pic: Lough Key Forest & Activity Park Park management have appealed to the public to dispose of such items safely as incidents like the one overnight could put people, wildlife and the park itself at risk. A statement from the park management said: "We're deeply disappointed and saddened to share that a disposable barbecue was placed in one of our bins last night, setting it on fire—despite the clear signage throughout the park asking visitors to dispose of these items safely.  "At Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, we take great pride in maintaining a beautiful, welcoming, and safe environment for all. Incidents like this not only threaten that safety but also risk serious harm to people, wildlife, and the park itself. We kindly ask all visitors to please respect the park and dispose of all rubbish responsibly." Ann Mulryan presenting a cheque on behalf of Seán Mulryan of Ballymore Properties to treasurer Martina Beirne. Pic: Gerard O'Loughlin The Beirne name is intrinsically linked to ploughing in the county with Paddy being a founding member of the association, and a former All-Ireland title winner in the three furrow ploughing category. All three of Paddy’s sons, John, Peter and Stephen, have contributed massively to the event as top class competitors over the years. Paddy’s sons no longer compete, but his daughter Martina, the current RPA treasurer, became the first female director of the National Ploughing Association in April of last year. Martina also competes in the farmerette class. Paddy’s grandson Dylan, the reigning county champion at U-21, placed third nationally. He is also the RPA’s PRO. The Roscommon Ploughing Association committee at the launch of this year's ploughing championships in dec's of Castleplunkett. Pic: Gerard O'LoughlinSpeaking at the  recent launch in Dec's Bar, Castleplunkett, Mr Beirne thanked everyone in attendance and reflected positively on last year’s event. “It seems a short twelve months since our last very successful ploughing match where feedback from the public and visitors was extremely positive,” he told the gathering. He acknowledged the strong results the association had at last year’s National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, County Laois, with Pauline Lavin placing second in the ladies’ loy digging and Dylan placing third in the U-21 junior two furrow class. Last year’s results were a “significant achievement for the county,” he said. He also noted the RPA’s involvement in last year’s national event as head supervisors, field and road stewards and office administration. He added: “We as a voluntary non- profit association play our role at national level, the biggest outdoor field event in Europe. It is something we all can be very proud of as citizens of Ireland.”  RPA PRO Dylan Beirne thanked everyone who played a role in making this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships possible. He extended gratitude to Paddy Beirne and family for hosting the event. He added that they were “extremely grateful” to the championship’s main sponsor and fellow Ballinaheglish man Sean Mulryan, and all sponsors. The reigning U-21 champion paid tribute to the RPA committee saying: “To our chairman Ger Grehan and our new secretary Edmund Hester, we thank them for their good leadership and all fellow committee members, volunteers and all in the parish for their tireless contribution and the support demonstrated to each other.”  He wished all competitors the best of luck, extended well wishes to two members currently unwell in hospital and honoured the late Edward John Beattie from Rahara. He also thanked the Beattie family for their donation of the Perpetual Trophy in Mr Beattie’s name, which will be awarded to the overall top marks winner of the vintage classes. On Friday last, the organisers of the Lough Ree International Pike Festival & World Cup said that a boat, trailer, and engine had been taken from the car park of a hotel in Athlone. They asked anyone with any information to contact their local Garda Station immediately. The equipment is worth approximately €30,000. When contacted by the Herald, a Garda spokesperson said that Athlone Gardaí received a report of the theft of a boat and trailer at approximately 6:35 pm on Thursday, May 1st in the town. “Investigations are ongoing at this time,” the spokesperson said. Abbey Community College Boyle celebrate after claiming the All Ireland Junior C crown Abbey Community College Boyle claimed the Junior 'C' Girls All-Ireland Schools League title on Friday. The Boyle based secondary school defeated Loreto, Milford 34-28 to cap a memorable week. On Tuesday, Abbey Community School Boyle were crowned All Ireland Minor C champions after they came through a thrilling decider against Glenties of Donegal, to prevail 29-20. Feeding hens, one of the images from the National Museum of Ireland's Irish Folklife Collection. ‘Happy Days and Hard Time’s is a collection of memories, stories and images, compiled by the National Museum of Ireland, and it includes a submission from one Roscommon visitor who fondly recalls the stories of country dances handed down to him from his mother. The book came about through a reminiscence project, which encouraged visitors to the National Museum at Turlough Park in County Mayo, to submit their memories, inspired by the folklife objects on display in the museum galleries. From saving hay and bringing home the turf to shoemaking and the fair day – each of the stories are told in the visitors’ own words alongside an image or object from the Irish Folklife Collection. The book was compiled by the museum’s documentation officer, Joanne Hamilton, who first started collecting visitor memories in 2013. Welcoming the ongoing popularity and third print run of the book, Ms. Hamilton said: “It is wonderful to see Happy Days and Hard Times reprinted for a third time. The thought provoking stories resonate with so many; those visits to the bog with the flask of tea or cycling the countryside. It brings people back to a simpler past, a past filled with colour and conversation, a past where children ran through fields till dusk and neighbours sat for hours whiling away time. “Of course, as the book title suggests, not all of the rich memories of country living are surrounded with a nostalgic glow; these were hard times as well, and this comes through as people recount their stories.”  Visitors from all over Ireland and many people living abroad contributed to the book. The book even features a contribution from the famous Christy Moore who recalls listening to Michael O’Hehir on the wireless and hearing day-old chicks chirp underneath the settle bed. Members of the public can still contribute memories and stories of country life to the project either via the memory sheets available in the reminiscence corner at the National Museum in Turlough Park or by downloading a memory sheet from www.museum.ie. Castlerea boxing sisters Aoife and Lisa O'Rourke will officially open the Roscommon Ploughing Championships later today. The championships commence at noon on Beirne family land in Ballinaheglish and are expected to draw a large crowd. There will be an array of ploughing events on the day as well as a number of activities for the whole family to enjoy. The world silver medalists will be on site to launch proceedings at two o'clock. Roscommon Ploughing Association Treasurer Martina Beirne says it's an honour to have them on board this year. Paul's Retro Eats based in Boyle won the Connacht title for Street Food of the Year. The Stone House in Ballinlough was awarded the Connacht title for Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year 2025 while Paul’s Retro Eats in Boyle took the Connacht title for Street Food of the Year 2025. The Stone House in Ballinlough won the Connacht title for Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year. These awards are just the latest in a number of accolades which both businesses have achieved this year. Both have thanked their staff and customers for all their support. The awards celebrate and showcase the commitment by the Irish hospitality industry in delivering the highest standards. Mrs Kitty Lavin (née Lane), who was born on February 16th, 1936, was from Mullen, Frenchpark, and formerly of Ardikellan, Strokestown. Fine Gael councillor Liam Callaghan said he hoped Kitty’s good christian beliefs and the many fond memories of her could be of some consolation to the family and wider community at this very sad time. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Michael; her parents, Elizabeth and Pat Lane; sister, Ettie and brother Martin. Kitty is sadly missed and remembered with love by her heartbroken family, her sons, Pat and Gerry; her daughter, Martina Langan (Ballymote); her adored grandson, Michael; son-in-law, Tommy; daughter-in-law, Yvonne; Pat's partner, Anne; sisters, Mai and Breege; brothers, Ed and Micheál; brother-in-law, Pat Beirne; sister-in-law, Linda Lane; nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Kitty will be laid to rest this morninin Cloonshanville Cemetery following 11 a.m. Funeral Mass in St Asicus’ Church, Frenchpark. Shane Moran and his Roscommon minor footballers are heading for Castlebar next Friday evening. Picture: Gerard O'Loughlin Mayo’s 3-15 to 0-15 victory against Galway means that Shane Moran’s men will travel to Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar, next Friday evening to take on the home side at 6.30 p.m.. Roscommon will be looking for their first U-17 crown since 2020 — a game that was played during Storm Bella on St. Stephen’s Day during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mayo defeated Roscommon in last year’s decider at King and Moffatt Dr. Hyde Park. On Friday evening, despite trailing by 0-8 to 0-3 after 25 minutes, Conor Hession’s accuracy alongside goals from Oran Murphy, Tony Carey and Fiacre O Cinnseala cemented Mayo’s place in the final. When the sides met in the round robin series in the Hyde, Roscommon enjoyed a comfortable 4-15 to 3-9 victory, but a much closer contest is in the pipeline next Friday evening. The Clann na nGael U-15 girls' football panel that were crowned Roscommon Féile Division One champions in Enfield on Sunday afternoon. A superbly-ran competition saw Clann, Boyle, Oran/St. Croan’s, Pádraig Pearses and Four Roads take part in a round robin format in ideal conditions. The semi-finals saw Oran/St. Croan’s beat Boyle, while Clann na nGael got the better of Four Roads. Two well-prepared teams showcased all the skills of ladies’ football as Oran/St. Croan’s and Clann na nGael vied for the honour of being Féile (U-15) champions. Oran/St. Croan’s made the better start but Clann na nGael, led by Isla Walshe, Saoirse Dunne, Lauren Keena, Ruth Waldron and Anna Kelly, battled back to win by 3-4 to 1-6. Afterwards, victorious Clann na nGael captain Lauren Keena accepted the shield from Sandra Shanagher, who was part of an all-female cast of officials on the day. Clann na nGael will now take part in the National Féile finals in County Derry at the end of June. A fire has broken out at a waste facility in Athlone. Pic: Athlone Area Traffic Watch The substantial fire broke out overnight at the Barna Recycling facility at Cartrontroy, Athlone. It is understood that the fire broke out in one of the waste bays in the main facility.  Units of the fire service from Athlone and Ferbane are at the scene and the fire is now under control. Three units of the fire service are this evening at the scene of a major bog fire. Several acres of bog are on fire in the Farm area between Castlerea and Williamstown. Three units of the Fire Service from Roscommon and Ballyhaunis are at the scene. Motorists are advised to exercise caution on the Farm Road linking Ballymoe with Trien as the smoke is dense in places. Declan, Fiona, Jack, Emily, John, and Mary McDermott with Mary Conneely and Inspector David Cryan as little Jack (4) was made a Little Blue Hero at Castlerea Garda Station. Pic: Liam Reynolds Haley Bird (16), Imelia Evans (11) and Jack Mc Dermott (4) were joined by their families and friends for the occasion. Inspector David Cryan, Roscommon Garda Station, presented each Honorary Garda with a graduation certificate and ceremonial medal. Jessica, and Anne Crowe with Imelia Evans, Niamh Manning and Inspector David Cryan as Imelia (11) was made a Little Blue Hero at Castlerea Garda Station. Pic: Liam ReynoldsGardaí thank everyone who attended for making the day so special, Fr. Kevin Reynolds for his lovely blessing and the Little Blue Heroes Foundation for its continued support and assistance to the honorary gardaí and their families. The Little Blue Heroes Foundation, established in 2017, is a not-for-profit registered charity voluntarily led by Garda members, retired Garda members and other members of the community. Jason, Caroline and Haley Bird with Inspector David Cryan as Haley (16) was made a Little Blue Hero at Castlerea Garda Station. Pic: Liam ReynoldsThe vision is to support families of children with serious illnesses while empowering the lives of children through positive community engagement. The mission is to provide practical and financial support to families while granting the wish of the children to become honorary gardaí, to empower the child and foster positive engagement with An Garda Síochána. A fundraiser has been launched after the passing of Milan Kuspal who died while playing soccer in Roscommon on Wednesday have launched a fundraiser to bring him home living in Elphin and originally from Slovakia passed away while playing soccer alongside his friends He was a beloved husband of Anna and much loved father of Anna and Monika Milan will be very sadly missed and fondly remembered forever by his heartbroken wife Milan will be reposing at Brady’s Funeral Home Elphin (F45 Y168) on Sunday May 4th from 5 p.m Elphin (F45 WD80) arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am Funeral Mass is available to watch on Church webcam https://www.churchtv.ie/elphin/ and to listen to locally on Church Radio 106.6FM It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Beloved husband of Anna and much loved father of Anna and Monika Reposing at Brady’s Funeral Home, Elphin (F45 Y168) on Sunday (4th May) from 5pm to 6pm. Removal on Monday morning (5th May) to St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin (F45 WD80) arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am, followed by repatriation to Slovakia. Funeral Mass is available to watch on Church webcam https://www.churchtv.ie/elphin/ and to listen to locally on Church Radio 106.6FM The Kuspal family are grateful for your sympathy, prayers and support at this very sad time. To send a personal message to the family click on the ‘Condolences’ link below. CondolencesDonate to CharityWould you like to mark a birthday, memorial mass or anniversary for a Loved One?You can now create a family notice on RIP.ie to remember your loved one. Celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Drumboylan NS will take place this weekend. The day will start for Drumboylan NS with a very special Mass celebrated by Fr. Brendan McDonagh on the school grounds at 12.30 p.m., which will be followed by refreshments. A publication entitled ‘A Trip Down Memory Lane’ featuring memories from pupils over the decades as well as many photos, which have been taken down through the years at Drumboylan NS, will also be launched. A family fun day will kick off at 2 p.m. and will include many different activities including an ice-cream van, bouncy castle, sumo suits, balloon making, face painting and lots more. Another big feature of the day will be the ‘all-star football match’ which takes place at 3.30 p.m., providing an opportunity for past pupils to return to their roots and play a game of football. A shuttle bus will be in operation from Drumboylan Church starting at 11:45 a.m.. That evening there will be music in the Leitrim Inn from 6 p.m. The school is calling on all pupils, past and present, along with staff from over the years to join in for this very special anniversary, as it is a chance to reunite with old friends and take a trip down memory lane. In a social media post, the organisers behind the Lough Ree International Pike Festival & World Cup said that the boat, trailer and engine were taken from the car park of the Shamrock Lodge in Athlone last night. They asked anyone with any information to contact their local Garda Station immediately. It is believed that the equipment was taken during the night and is worth approximately €30,000. The lock was cut during the theft. The three day Pike Festival is held every April on Lough Ree and is Ireland's largest catch, photograph and release competition. Today is the final day of the competition.  The Herald has also contacted Gardaí about the incident. The development recently got the planning go-ahead. Roscommon County Council recently granted planning permission to Boyle Family Resource Centre for the development on Military Road in the town. Founder of the Dillon Quirke Foundation, Dan Quirke, receives a cheque for €2,000 from Oliver Connaughton, on behalf of Castlerea St. Kevin’s, towards the Foundation on Wednesday last following the club’s annual fun run and walk on St. Stephen’s Day 2024. Pictured are Grace Curran, Oliver Connaughton, Ollie Finneran, Marie Hester, Vincent Finan, Dan Quirke, Michael McDermott, Seán Gill, Evan Kelly, Tommie Finneran, Danny Burke, Seamus Coyne, and Noel Curran. Pictures: Liam Reynolds The fun run and walk, which was sponsored by McGourty’s Bar, was a great success. There was great participation from club members and the wider community. A total of €2,000 was raised, and on Wednesday last the cheque was presented by club members to the founder of the Dillon Quirke Foundation, Dan Quirke. The Foundation was set up in honour of Dillon Quirke who collapsed and died during a hurling match at Semple Stadium in August 2022. On average, 100 young people in Ireland die each year from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) — a rate much higher than that reported in other EU countries. In an effort to reduce this number, the Foundation aims to promote awareness surrounding the importance of cardiac screening in preventing SADs and to provide cardiac screening for young people nationwide. The screenings are carried out by Advanced Medical Services (AMS), a provider of onsite medical services. The Dillon Quirke Foundation organised AMS to come to Castlerea St. Kevin’s last week where 45 of the club’s youth players, aged from 16 and 18 years, received cardiac screening on the day. Castlerea St. Kevin’s GAA Club wishes to thank all those who supported the charity walk and run on St. Stephen’s Day; McGourty’s Bar for sponsoring the event; Minor Secretary Marie Hester and her team for working with the Dillon Quirke Foundation to organise the screening day, and Dan Quirke and all the team at the Foundation for their help in organising the screening. The club looks forward to working with the Dillon Quirke Foundation in the future. For more details on the Dillon Quirke Foundation or to organise youth cardiac screening for any organisation, go to www.dillonquirkefoundation.com or check out Facebook and Instagram DillonQuirkeFoundation. Tributes continue to be paid to the woman who was killed in a road crash in Frenchpark on Thursday evening May1st was a pedestrian who died after being struck by a truck in the west Roscommon village was originally from Strokestown but had moved to Frenchpark after she got married One said ‘’A lovely lady ...always up for a chat it’s just so sad my heart goes out to all her family’’ Another said ‘’Rest in peace Kitty Condolences to your family Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward Any road users who may have footage and were travelling in the area between 4.30pm and 5pm are asked to make the footage available to gardaí Keep up-to-date with the top stories in Cork with our daily newsletter straight to your inbox Please click here for our privacy statement. Sign up to receive our weekly newsletter to be in with a chance to win prizes and see what's coming up in The Echo © Examiner Echo Group Limited, Linn Dubh, Assumption Road, Blackpool, Cork. Registered in Ireland: 523712. Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more Mount Dillion station  recorded that County Roscommon had its wettest April since 2009. Previous to this the warmest April day on record was on April 19th, 2019 with a temperature of 22.2 degrees. However the station also recorded that County Roscommon had its wettest April since 2009. According to figures released by Met Eireann the lowest grass minimum in the country was -7.3 degrees reported at both Mount Dillon and Claremorris, Co Mayo on Thursday 17th. There were also six days of air frost reported at Mount Dillon. Nationally April 2025 was the third warmest on record since 1900 and the warmest since 2011, which was the warmest April on record followed by 2007 as second warmest. These latest figures are based on available preliminary data from 25 principal weather stations operated by Met Éireann. A Roscommon frontline service for victims of domestic violence and abuse saw a 13 percent increase in new clients last year. Roscommon Safe Link is a non-profit charitable organisation that offers information, support and counselling to women and men suffering abuse. The service's 2024 annual report has shown a 13 percent increase in new clients, a 5 percent increase in continuing clients and 17 percent increase in the number of outreach clinics conducted. According to the report over 9,300 clients made contact through calls, texts, and emails, while the service also delivered 69 court accompaniments and 558 advocacy supports. Project Manager Anne Carey paid tribute to those who came forward over the last year and urged the public to help spread awareness of the role of the organisation. She believes the increase in new clients is down to more people being willing to seek support: ‘Hothouse’, a story of love, loss, and legacy set on an Arctic cruise ship comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, May 16th at 8.00 p.m.. This fast-paced, poignant story of love, loss, and legacy set on an Arctic cruise ship, takes you—the passenger—on a journey to bid farewell to the ice caps. Following its Off-Broadway debut (2024) where Hothouse was selected as a New York Times Critic’s Pick, the show is now touring the country. Hothouse brings the audience on an odyssey that sails through an intergenerational tale complete with horny songbirds, a mad captain, and wanting to change, but not knowing how. Set on a cruise liner in the Arctic, where the ship's captain is pulling the strings, the play is performed by a cast of five. Hothouse, with its clever score, looks at the last hundred years in Ireland, and ahead to the next hundred. Tackling climate breakdown with big ideas, there are plenty of laughs, and some truly grotesque cabaret musical numbers. The play sees Ruth (in 1969) who refuses to eat sandwiches with lettuce in them. Ali in the present day goes on a cruise to say goodbye to the ice. A parent 100 years in the future tells their child it gets better, even though we're pretty sure they're lying. Bookings at 090 662 5824 / roscommonartscentre.ie The show will also be performed at the Hawks Well, Sligo on Saturday, May 24th at 8.00 p.m, 071 916 1518 / https://www.hawkswell.com/whats-on/shows/hothouse Roscommon will play Mayo in the Connacht Minor Football Final next Friday evening That’s after Mayo defeated Galway by 3-15 to 0-15 in the semi-final on Friday night Two goals for Mayo in the final eight minutes sealed the win for them RESULTS: The winning team in the Bank Holiday Shambles competition was the combination of Lochlainn Conboy Niall O’Donohoe and Owen O’Donohoe with 127 points The Men’s 9-hole competition played on 24/4 was won by Keith Dowling with an impressive 24 points 2nd was Lorcan Egan (20) and 3rd was Jonathan Egan (19) FIXTURES: The Men’s weekend Thursday competition continues every week from now ‘til late September It will stay as a 9-hole competition for now but will be a 12-hole when evening daylight allows We are planning a team event for the Bank Holiday weekend INTERCLUB: Good luck to our men’s interclub Seniors Team This is the club’s first interclub fixture for 2025 The next team out will be the Connacht 9-hole Clubs team with their 1st round to be played by May the 11th MEMBERSHIP FEES: All membership fees are now due. A full list of the fees and payment arrangements are available on boylegolfclub.com. JUNIOR GOLF: The club’s Junior Programme restarts this Saturday and runs for six weeks. It will take place from 10.30 am-12.30 pm on each of those Saturdays. The 8th and 9th holes will be closed during this time, so if teeing off those mornings, please aim not to reach the 8th tee before 12.30. Thank you. LADIES RESULTS: Thank you to everyone who played in our Maria Talbot Scramble and thanks also to the Talbot family for their generous sponsorship. The winners are as follows: 1st: Carmel Stritch, Catherine Moreton & Kathleen O’Dowd (29 nett); 2nd: Noeleen Moffatt, Claire Grant & Teresa Duignan (30 nett); 3rd: Ann Keenan, Ruth Creamer & Terri Gray (31 nett). Well done ladies. Prizes will be presented on Saturday evening at 6 pm. Best of luck to those playing on Saturday. 50-50 DRAW: 26th draw winner on April 25th was Paul McTeague (€540). Thanks to everyone for your continued support. GENTS RESULTS: Gents 2-Person Scramble Qualifier. Congrats to the top qualifiers in the 2-person scramble with an excellent score of 45 pts, Keith Tighe and Damien Quigley. The top 16 teams qualified. Please note all 1st round matches must be played by June 1st. SENIORS RESULTS: Overall winner on Week 17 (April 24th) was Michael Keville with 38 pts. Cat. 1 winner was Gerry Emmett (37 pts); Cat. 2 winner was Paddy Duffy (35 pts); Cat. 3 winner was Francie Foley (28 pts); F9 winner was John Moffatt (16 pts); B9 winner was Albert Hogg (21 pts). DATES FOR DIARY: Away golf. Longford on June 2nd. Tee time: 10 o’clock. €30. Claremorris on July 7th. Tee time: 11 o’clock. €25. Slieve Russell on August 11th. Tee time: 10.10. €45. Mullingar on September 1st. Tee time: 10.10. €50. Overnight to Westport/Castlebar on October 6th & 7th; includes B&B and Evening Dinner at The Helm. Roscommon hurlers are still in the championship, but they are not doing it the easy way after another close shave – this time against Armagh at King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park last Sunday. When substitute Sean Canning blasted home the only goal of the game in the 55th minute, it put  Roscommon nine points in front (1-14 to 0-8) and a comfortable win looked odds-on. However, Armagh came with a late rally. They scored seven points without reply to reduce the margin to two as the game went into time added on. Then a long-range point from Micheal Hussey in the 73rd minute steadied the home side’s nerves and an upset was avoided. Roscommon were probably the better team on the balance of play – and a total of 18 wides would indicate that they had most of the possession –however Kevin Sammon’s men can be thankful to their goalkeeper Enda Lawless who pulled off three superb saves which prevented what looked likely to be certain Armagh goals in the 34th, 52nd and 57th minutes respectively. The first half was a very low-key affair and the small attendance had little to cheer about. Roscommon were the better side and led 0-9 to 0-4 at half-time with Cian Murray, Robbie Fallon and Conor Mulry on target for the home side. Fallon, team captain Conor Cosgrove, Finn Killion and Jack Dowling were all on target in the third quarter as Roscommon moved 0-14 to 0-8 in front after 53 minutes. Two minutes later, sub Sean Canning showed a clean pair of heels to the Armagh defence and blasted home a fine goal to extend the home side’s lead to nine. Armagh were not finished by any means. Inspired by their talisman and top scorer Shea Harvey, they set about reducing Roscommon’s lead and scored seven points without reply in a 12-minute period, with Harvey contributing four from play and frees. As the game moved into time added on, the gap was down to two. Roscommon survived in the end and it was Oran’s Micheal Hussey who steadied the ship with that long-range point in the third minute of injury-time. Roscommon now play Fermanagh at home in the next round, with Louth to come in their final game in the group. Roscommon manager Kevin Sammon was happy with the win afterwards when he spoke to People Sport. “It was a good comeback by Armagh there. We went nine ahead and we won it by three. We set out to win the game today and that’s it. We played well only in patches and got the goal at just the right time”. Once again, missed chances were a factor on the day, as Sammon acknowledged. “The same as last week, we should have got more scores on the board and that is something that we have to work on. We had way too many wides to be honest. But it is good that at least we are making the chances. We are still there and we have Fermanagh and Louth to come. We have to win those matches, it’s as simple as that. “It was good to have Sean Canning back in the fold today. He got the goal and we won by a goal and we are happy with that. Any day you win a championship match is a good day and we move on now” he concluded. Roscommon: Enda Lawless; Mark Ward, James Dillon, Darragh Finn; Adam Donnelly, Conor Cosgrove (0-1, free), Micheal Hussey (0-1); Jack Dowling (0-2), Eoin Fitzgerald; Cian Murray (0-2), Finn Killion (0-2), Brendan Mulry; Robbie Fallon (0-3, 1 free), Conor Mulry (0-3), Ben McGahon (0-1, free). Subs: Sean Canning (1-0) for McGahon (h/t), Keelan Ryan for Dowling (60). Armagh: Fintan Woods; Paudie Lappin, Dillon Fox (0-1), Niall Lennon; Barry Shortt, Paul Gaffney, Tiarnan Nevin; Peter McKearney, Odhran Curry; Stephen Keenan, Shea Gaffney (0-2), Stephen O’Keeffe; Pauric McNaughton (0-1), Shea Harvey (0-8, 5 frees, 1 ‘65), Conor Reneghan. Subs: Daire Harvey for Lappin (10), Charlie McArdle (0-2) for McKearney (41), Joe O’Connor for Reneghan (45), Danny Magee (0-1) for Gaffney (52), Aaron Cullinane for Lennon (61), Ciaran Duffy for O’Keeffe (74, blood). Late points from sub Dara Neary, Darragh Beirne and Tom Lydon ensured that Mayo edged past Roscommon in what was a breathtaking provincial U-20 decider played in Tuam Stadium on Wednesday night. Roscommon made a mockery of their pre-match odds of 7/1 with a superb display all through and they just ran out of luck in what was a frantic finish. If there is a better game in 2025 then it will be worth watching as both teams went at each other hammer and tongs from the first whistle and treated the big crowd to a feast of high quality football throughout. Indeed there was controversy right into injury-time as Roscommon sub Ruairi Kilcline fisted to the Mayo net but the ‘goal’ was disallowed for a ‘square ball’. In glorious sunshine, the first half was about as unpredictable as a Donald Trump press conference, but it was tremendous entertainment. Mayo totally dominated the opening 20 minutes by which stage they led by 1-7 to 0-1. Oliver Armstrong and Seamus Howard were on top at midfield while the full-forward line of Darragh Beirne, Niall Hurley and Tom Lydon were causing mayhem for the Roscommon defence. In the 9th minute Howard broke through the Roscommon cover to finish well for the first goal of the game and a string of unanswered points saw Roscommon nine points down and struggling. But after Rory Carthy kicked a two-point free in the 21st minute, Cian Smith’s men suddenly came alive. A minute later John Curran’s brilliant pass was finished to the net by Rory Carthy and Roscommon were back in it. In the 27th minute John McGuinness beat three Mayo defenders to slot home another super goal and the margin was down to two. Mayo replied with a point from Colm McHale and another well-taken goal from Darragh Beirne as the goal-fest continued. But Roscommon were to go in just two points down as McGuinness once again found the Mayo net in tremendous style to send the teams in with Mayo leading 2-9 to 3-4 after a breathtaking half of attacking football. The third quarter saw a drop in the scoring rate but it was still enthralling stuff. Mayo edged ahead by 2-13 to 3-7 when Roscommon struck for goal number four. Rob Heneghan fisted home a high ball into the danger area from Rory Carthy and suddenly the scores were level. But it was Mayo who kicked on again as they got the scores that won them the title. Roscommon can be immensely proud of a fantastic display that came up just short and who knows what might have happened if Kilcline’s late goal had stood. Mayo: Conor Meaney; Rio Mortimer, Paul Gilmore, Eoin McGreal; Hugh O’Loughlin (0-2), John McMonagle, Colm McHale (0-3); Oliver Armstrong, Seamus Howard (1-0); Oisin Cronin (0-1), Cathal Keaveney, Colm Lynch; Darragh Beirne (1-3, 2 frees), Niall Hurley (0-2), Tom Lydon (0-5, 2 frees). Subs: Yousif Coghill for McGreal (16), Dara Neary (0-1) for Cronin (35), Diarmuid Duffy for Lynch (45), Luke Feeney for Armstrong (52), Daithi Butler for Gilmore (62). Roscommon: Patrick Gaynor; Keelan Kelly, Tommy Morris, Cillian Campbell; Conor Grogan (0-1), Eoghan Carthy, Conor Kelly; Niall Heneghan, David Higgins; Eoin Collins, Robert Heneghan (1-0), Ryan Dowling; John Curran (0-1), Rory Carthy (1-4, tpf, 2 frees), John McGuinness (2-0). Subs:  Brian Greene (0-2) for K Kelly (21), Cathal McKeon for Dowling (45), Ciaran O’Reilly for Higgins (52), Ruairi Kilcline for R Heneghan (56). The 2024/25 Hannon’s Hotel Roscommon County Darts League concluded in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town recently. Competing for the Atty Hynes Cup were McDermott’s of Ballinaheglish and The Holly Tree of Roscommon Town. McDermott’s were winners by 3-2 after a thrilling final. The presentation of the Atty Hynes Memorial Cup was made by Matthew Hynes to winning captain Brendan Mullarkey. Thank you to the management and staff at Hannon’s Hotel for their continued sponsorship, support and hospitality. It is much appreciated. Winners of the Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon County Darts League Shield section was The Village Inn, who defeated Dalton’s 5-3 in the final. Slightly smaller numbers presented for sale last Thursday (April 24th) with prices and trade for quality lots maintained. Plainer lots tended to be a little easier last week but overall there was very little change in trade. The heifer ring witnessed lots make as high as €2690.  Dry cows peaked at €3970 while the weanling rings reported a good demand, with bulls peaking at €5.76 a kilo. Heifer weanlings hit €5.50 a kilo. The calf trade remains strong with exporters and farmers driving the trade while breeding stock made up to €4070 for a limousin cow and her bull calf at foot. HEIFERS: Ch 405kgs €1780 Au 425kgs €1760 Lm 385kgs €1680 Lm 435kgs €2520 Lm 495kgs €2590 Lm 465kgs €2130 Lm 640kgs €2690 Ch 560kgs €2570  AA 555kgs €2330 AA 640kgs €2670 Lm 445kgs €2410. DRY COWS: Ch 450kgs €1600 Sh 860kgs €3480 Lm 770kgs €3300 Her 810kgs €3040 Lm 735kgs €3000 AA 745kg €2950 Lm 740kgs €2930 Lm 435kgs €1440. Cows with calves at foot made from €1180 to €4070. Springers made from €1760 to €1920. CALVES: Lots made from €20 to €890 with exporters, farmers and agents driving the trade, resulting in an excellent clearance. Runners made from €460 to €1360 for continental lots. WEANLING BULLS: Ch 275kgs €1490 AA 280kgs €1410 Ch 260kgs €1320 Lm 420kgs €2270 Lm 365kgs €1960 Lm 370kgs €1800 Ch 300kgs €1580 Ch 310kgs €1540 Ch 335kgs €1710. WEANLING HEIFERS: Ch 285kgs €1440 AA 275kgs €1390 Lm 240kgs €1320 Lm 295kgs €1320 Lm 390kgs €2000 Ptx 350kgs €1690 BBx 345kgs €1650 Lm 325kgs €1540 Lm 485kgs €2220. At our sale on Monday, April 21st, there were 140 bullocks on offer, with top quality stores making up to €5.37 a kilo. Heavier lots made up to €3070 with a good clearance taking place. Lm 480kgs €2240 Lm 465kgs €2160 Lm 515kgs €2770 AA 545kgs €2450 Lm 560kgs €2400 Ch 605kgs €2770 Ch 605kgs €2740 Ch 600kgs €2670. Sales continue with bullock sales on Mondays and our weekly sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves, runners and weanlings on Thursdays. A woman in her 80s has died after being struck by a truck in Co Roscommon on Thursday was fatally injured in Frenchpark at the junction of the N5 and the R361 at about 4.45pm on Thursday afternoon Her body has since been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway where a postmortem will take place A technical examination has since been conducted by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators and the road has since reopened to traffic Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward A further three fatalities were pedal cyclists while one death was recorded as being a pillion passenger or other It is a decrease of 11 when compared with the same period last year when 65 died The death comes ahead of the May bank holiday. Gardaí have launched a road safety awareness campaign for the period. Jack White is a reporter for The Irish Times Facebook pageTwitter feed© 2025 The Irish Times DAC The Roscommon Ploughing Association officially launched its 2025 County Championships on Wednesday, April 23rd, at Dec’s Bar and Lounge, Castleplunkett. A large crowd attended the event, including Fine Gael councillors Ruth Conboy and Liam Callaghan, and Fianna Fáil’s Cllr Sean Moylan. Roscommon Ploughing Association Chairperson Ger Crehan addressed the crowd at the launch event. He welcomed everyone, and in particular welcomed Ann Mulryan, sister of the event’s main sponsor: “Sean Mulryan is our main sponsor this year, second year running, for the ploughing in Roscommon. “A local man made good from Ballinaheglish there who didn’t forget his roots.” Mr Crehan also thanked all sponsors, both large and small, for their sponsorship and said that without their support, the ploughing wouldn’t be possible. Thanking all the competitors, Mr Crehan wished them well for the coming competition. He noted that the organisers have tried to expand the ploughing into an event that doubles as a great family day out with something for everyone, and thanked the officers and committee members for all their hard work: “It takes enormous effort and work and dedication to pull this off… an awful lot of work goes into it.” Dylan Beirne, speaking on behalf of the association as the PRO, thanked the hosts and members of the media: “I wish to provide a sincere thanks to Dec’s bar and lounge for hosting the launch and to the media journalists of the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald that has taken time out of your schedules to attend here tonight.” Mr Beirne paid particular tribute to this year’s main event sponsor, well-known property developer and committed Roscommon man, Sean Mulryan. Reflecting on last year’s event, Dylan said the feedback was “extremely positive” and noted the achievements of Roscommon competitors at national level: “Roscommon had two prize (placed) winners, Pauline Lavin achieved 2nd place in the ladies loy digging and I achieved 3rd place in junior 2 furrow class.” Mr Beirne also acknowledged the contributions of volunteers, adding: “Members volunteered and worked as head supervisors, field and road stewards, and office administration, who performed very well. “We, as a voluntary non-profit association, play our role at a national level in the NPA’s success, of which the National Ploughing is the biggest outdoor field event in Europe.” This year’s County Championships will take place on Sunday, May 4th, in Ballinaheglish – Eircode: F42 Y436. Dylan expressed gratitude on behalf of Roscommon Ploughing Association to the Beirne family, hosts once again for the event: “It is a privilege for the association to again receive the opportunity from the Beirne family to host the County championships on an excellent site and location and to build on last year’s success that was achieved in Ballinaheglish.” He paid tribute to his grandfather Paddy Beirne, a former All-Ireland 3-furrow champion, and noted the family’s long-standing involvement: “Paddy’s daughter Martina is our current Treasurer and NPA director… I am Paddy’s grandson and I will compete in the U-21 class where I hope to qualify… to compete in Tullamore in September at national level again.” The speech closed with a heartfelt remembrance of the late Edward John Beattie from Rahara: “It is important to honour his valuable contribution and how he helped shape us to be who we are today.” A perpetual trophy donated by the Beattie family in his memory will be presented to the top vintage competitor. The championships will begin with competitor registration from 9 am, with ploughing to start at 12 pm. Entry enquiries for competitors and trade stands can be made to Martina Beirne on 087 614 1503 or by email at roscommonploughing@gmail.com. Roscommon will mark another significant milestone in its agricultural and family event calendar this weekend, with the 31st County Ploughing Championships set to take place in Ballinaheglish on Sunday, May 4th. Returning to the same location as last year, the event is again being hosted by the Beirne family, whose long-standing contribution to the local and national ploughing movement is widely acknowledged. The Roscommon Ploughing Association, constituted in 1994, was the last county in Ireland to affiliate to the National Ploughing Association (NPA). In the years since, Roscommon’s representation has grown from modest beginnings to a visible and respected presence on the national stage. From the junior and loy classes to national titles and volunteer leadership within the NPA itself, the county’s footprint within Irish ploughing has broadened. The wider context for Roscommon’s return to Ballinaheglish lies in the evolution of the National Ploughing Championships themselves – an event that began in a 26-acre field in Coursetown, County Kildare, in February 1931. What started as a friendly rivalry between Wexford’s Denis Allen and Kildare’s JJ Bergin has since grown into the largest outdoor agricultural event in Europe. Formally established in 1931, the National Ploughing Association has since guided the championships through nearly a century of development. By the mid-1950s, the event had extended to two days and was incorporated as a company in 1956. The original ethos of technical skill, rural pride and sociability remains intact, even as the scale of the event has changed dramatically. Nowadays, the National Ploughing Championships occupy over 700 acres of host land annually – 180 acres devoted to ploughing, 100 to trade exhibitions, 400 to parking, and 25 to machinery and farming demonstrations. The event attracts close to 300,000 visitors and features everything from livestock and forestry exhibitions to bioenergy showcases, fashion and craft tents, and national education and enterprise zones. The local championships also play host to a wide range of ploughing categories, from senior reversible and three-furrow classes to junior and novice categories, horse ploughing and traditional loy digging – a reminder of the deep cultural roots of the practice as much as its modern technical precision. Set against this national backdrop, this year’s Roscommon Ploughing Championships will again feature a full competitive programme along with family entertainment, trade stands, and rural displays. The continuing use of the Ballinaheglish site – with its proven accessibility, layout, and community support – is testament to the strong cooperation between host landowners and the association. That the event now marks its 31st year since forming officially is not only a credit to the ploughmen and women who compete, but also to the volunteers, committee members, and rural households who continue to sustain it – often behind the scenes. Organisers of this year’s Roscommon championship thanked all stakeholders at the launch of the event last week. For Roscommon, the annual ploughing brings more than tradition – it provides a bridge between the technical and the communal, the competitive and the cultural, and between field and family. This year, as every year, that spirit will be turned once more in straight furrows through Ballinaheglish soil. The Roscommon Ploughing Championships, taking place this Sunday, May 4th, will showcase not only competitive ploughing talent but also the richness of local craft, farming heritage and traditional skills. Dylan Beirne, addressing attendees at the event launch, outlined the range of competitions: “All classes of ploughing competition will feature both confined for the county and open for visitors. It will contain categories of senior and junior in the usual tractor, horse and vintage ploughing competitions and will feature alongside a loy digging.” Some of Ireland’s top competitive ploughmen are expected to participate, with county and visiting competitors set to display their skill across multiple classes. Complementing the action in the fields will be a traditional craft village. Attendees will see live demonstrations from a blacksmith using a working forge, along with traditional knitters and other craft workers. Mr Beirne said the village offers “a rare opportunity to learn these skills and get involved on the day.” Vintage machinery will be displayed by Roscommon’s vintage clubs, including tractors, threshing machines, and memorabilia reflecting the area’s social and agricultural history. Sheepdog trials and a Roscommon Hunt demonstration will also form part of the day’s activities. Live music will be performed by local favourites Derek Campbell and Billy Garvan, while a purpose-built outdoor dance floor will host a jiving competition and social dancing throughout the afternoon. Mr Beirne said the festival reflects the wider role of the organisation: “We as a voluntary non-profit association play our role at national level to the NPA’s success, of which the National Ploughing is the biggest outdoor field event in Europe.” With a programme balancing competition, celebration, and rural culture, Ballinaheglish is set to once again draw thousands of people for Roscommon’s largest springtime agricultural event. It was the first Sunday of April – 1994 – when Roscommon shed its unusual status as the only county absent from the National Ploughing Championships. Under the leadership of Padraig Nolan, chairman of the then newly-formed Roscommon Ploughing Association, a tight-knit group of organisers set about hosting the county’s inaugural ploughing event. They were ready for action, but perhaps not quite for the scale of action that descended on them that day. Mr Nolan vividly recalls a man arriving from Nenagh, County Tipperary, trundling in not on a modern Landini or Massey Ferguson, but on an old Ford tractor – and from memory, Mr Nolan reckoned it was not even one of the more high-powered models of the era. The event that day drew some notable visitors. Anna May McHugh – the Queen of Irish ploughing – and her sister travelled down to support the occasion, something Mr Nolan spoke about with deep appreciation. The President of the Roscommon association at the time was the late Paddy Walsh, a well-known builder, community figure and GAA activist in Roscommon town, whom Mr Nolan also remembered with affection and reverence. “It was a very successful day, it was a fine day, very successful day in the sense that it was a novelty for Roscommon people to have ploughing and the crowds came in huge numbers that day,” Mr Nolan said. “So, we put a man on the road that day and he directed every car into the field, even the cars going to Knock into the field,” Mr Nolan recalled, laughing. Naturally, the confusion among the Knock pilgrims – who found themselves at a lively field of ploughing rather than at Mass – was considerable. But one cannot help but imagine that a few of the waylaid pilgrims, having already disembarked among the ploughing community, might well have decided it was no bad thing to stay put, enjoy the spectacle, and leave the longer journey to Knock for another day. It was, by all accounts, a day of history and humorous happenstance – a Roscommon welcome at its most memorable, and a community event that would set the tone for many great championships to come. I was not a stranger for too long. After a bit of chat, I was directed to the lounge where the, let us say, eager members of the press had begun to gather. In Roscommon circles, there are few real strangers among the local media. It did not take too long for the ploughing crowd to start filtering in. Tuesday had been a bad evening for the farmers – the heavens had opened – but Wednesday had come good. Despite the fine weather, the crowd arrived in a timely fashion, to the delight of those working against the clock and impending sunset. There had been fears that eight o’clock might drift towards ten on a night like that. By nine, the lounge was full, the atmosphere lively, and the craic building nicely. The Beirne family, as ever, were extremely generous with their time. I met some old acquaintances I had not seen since before Covid, and a few I have seen a bit too much of since. It was an education to speak with Padraig Nolan, the first chairman of the Roscommon Ploughing Association and a key organiser of the inaugural championships back in 1994. Martina Beirne gave me a first-class education in the nuances of ploughing, which armed me well to mingle among the attendees and competitors. Her son Dylan, who has become integral to the organising of the event in recent years, was not media-shy either. Her father, Paddy Beirne, whose family farm will once again host this year’s championships, has been involved in the association for over 30 years. Yet he modestly deferred to those he had trained to take up the mantle. The atmosphere was electric. It did the soul good to get out and see that sense of meitheal in full swing – friends and neighbours, locals and visitors, coming together and displaying that uniquely rural sense of community, not just through words but through the very act of being present: sharing, laughing, and celebrating the coming of another Roscommon Ploughing Championships. The upcoming Roscommon County Ploughing Championships, to be held on Sunday, May 4th in Ballinaheglish, will place a strong emphasis on affordable family fun and community engagement, organisers have confirmed. Dylan Beirne told those gathered at the launch that organisers were making a conscious effort to keep the event as accessible as possible: “The aim of this entertainment is to keep the event low cost for families where children also have free admission.” Among the main attractions for younger attendees will be the return of Corbally’s Pet Farm, which will feature miniature horses, alpacas, goats, giant and dwarf rabbits, tortoises, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, snakes, pet rats, and rare breed poultry. Fierce Fun Face Painting will also be offering free balloon modelling and face painting throughout the day. A complimentary ride on the vintage Wanderly Wagon will be provided by Paddy Shaughnessy, a popular fixture from previous years. O’Mahony’s Funfair will also be on site, offering a variety of attractions for all ages. Speaking to the Roscommon People, Martina Beirne, treasurer of the Roscommon Ploughing Association and a National Ploughing Association (NPA) director, said: “I’m delighted to see our platform utilised for the benefit of the community. I feel it’s very rewarding and hopefully makes a difference.” She confirmed that elite Irish boxing sisters from Castlerea – Aoife and Lisa O’Rourke – will officially open this year’s event. “It is great for the community to meet and congratulate the girls and for the ploughing to recognise their exceptional achievements in sport and having such a strong rural farming background themselves,” she said. In a community safety initiative, the Garda Mounted Support Unit will also attend, along with the Castlerea Community Policing Unit. Garda Tanya Duffy and Garda Sinead Higgins will operate a gazebo offering information leaflets, crime prevention advice, and children’s activity resources such as An Garda Síochána colouring books. A property-marking machine from Roscommon County Council is expected to be in use on the day. Martina added that she had invited the Gardaí following recent crime statistics: “I had read recently crime was up 52 per cent, so it was the primary reason to invite the unit to attend our event and relay information that helps the community or an activity for engagement for the public and children.” The day’s attractions aim to balance fun and safety with a focus on family-friendly accessibility. Mayo, 2025 Connacht U20 Football champions. Picture: INPHO/James Crombie Roscommon patiently worked the ball for the first score by John Curran on three minutes but Mayo would control the remainder of the first quarter. Oisin Cronon, Hugh O'Loughlin and Tom Lydon all pointed before Mayo got the first goal on eight minutes. The move was started and finished by Seamus Howard, who won the Roscommon kickout, knocking it down into Cathal Keaveney. The centre-forward found Tom Lydon, who in turn fed Howard and the Belmullet midfielder coolly finished. Mayo's full-forward line of Lydon, Darragh Beirne and Niall Hurley combined for their next four points to make it 1-7 to 0-1, but Roscommon turned the game on its head thanks to Rory Carthy, who kicked a wonderful two-point free off the ground before raising Roscommon's first green flag after being picked out by John Curran. After Brian Greene and Niall Hurley traded scores, Roscommon found the net again through John McGuinness after he raced away from Rio Mortimer to reduce the gap to a point. Mayo hit back with 1-1, the goal coming through Darragh Beirne but Roscommon would respond immediately with a third goal, McGuinness netting his second, to put it 2-9 to 3-4 in Mayo's favour after a thrilling first half. The scoring slowed in the third quarter, Mayo outscoring Roscommon 0-2. Rory Carthy, a free, and Colm McHale exchanged scored when Roscommon drew level on 51 minutes with their fourth goal of the evening, when Robert Heneghan's flicked in Carthy's diagonal ball in. McHale, Dara Neary and Beirne put Mayo back in front, with Conor Grogan bringing the gap to two before injury-time. Roscommon thought they won it when Niall Heneghan palmed it in but it was ruled out for a square ball, and Lydon hit over the insurance score to bring the curtain down on a Connacht classic. Western news delivered directly to your inbox The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investigating six alleged illegal turf cutting sites in County Roscommon. A spokesperson for the EPA said that the matters have now been referred to Roscommon County Council, which has enforcement jurisdiction in this area. “The EPA has issued a Proposed Direction under Section 63(5) of the EPA Act, 1992 as amended, to Roscommon County Council requesting the submission of enforcement plans in relation to peat extraction sites,” an EPA spokesperson said. The EPA said it would be publishing a report in the coming weeks, which would address alleged illegal peat extraction in more detail. The EPA made the comments following the publication of its Industrial and Waste Licence Enforcement Summary 2024 report last week. The report details EPA enforcement activities across industrial and waste sites.