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 Peacefully at Nenagh General Hospital surrounded by her loving family very good neighbours and wide circle of friends Roscrea (E53 NY70) this Sunday evening from 4pm to 7pm Removal from Tierney's Funeral Home on Monday morning at 11.30am arriving in St.Cronan's Church (E53 PK82) for Funeral Mass at 12noon Burial afterwards in the adjoining new cemetery Funeral Mass can be viewed at the following link www.stcronanscluster.ie 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 https://www.tipperarylive.ie/section/1235/advertise-with-us Keep up to date with the latest news in Tipperary as it happens with TipperaryLive.ie The latest Tipperary news,sport and business from TipperaryLive.ie National - Tipperary Live - Find the latest Tipperary Clonmel Ireland Local County Region breaking news What's on - Tipperary Live - Find the latest Tipperary Clonmel Ireland Local County Region breaking news sport and business from Tipperary with the team from TipperaryLive.ie sport and motoring as it happens from TipperaryLive.ie Tipperary Live Met Eireann Weather Forecast Deaths - Tipperary Live - Find the latest Tipperary Clonmel Ireland Local County Region breaking news Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter Support our mission and join our community now you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism Gardaí in Tipperary discovered a litany of offences when they pulled over a car in a North Tipperary town over the bank holiday weekend Officers from the Tipperary Roads Policing division were on patrol in Roscrea when they pulled over a car when the car pinged on their ANPR system and they noticed that the driver wasn't wearing a seatbelt READ MORE: Memorial soccer tournament to return to this Tipperary town this summer they discovered that they had no insurance and were driving on an expired learner permit who then tested positive for cannabis cocaine and amphetamines on a road side drug test READ MORE: Car sales up across Tipperary, new figures show and said that court will follow for the driver " + $(".testo_articolo").html().replace(//g please subscribe and support local journalism Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles To continue reading this article for FREE,please kindly register and/or log in Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news 5 March at the Halla Na Féile in Cashel In Pictures: Meet the cast of hit play 'The Ferryman' including a 'very well behaved baby' Night of nostalgia at Tipperary Museum with 125 year Clonmel High School reunion Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie Top employer Lidl Ireland has announced the winners of its annual National Achievement Awards which acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of Lidl team members across its stores distribution centres and offices across the island of Ireland was selected from over 6,000 employees across the island of Ireland to take home the coveted top award - Lidl Legend The ‘Lidl Legend’ award is reserved for one colleague who lives and breathes Lidl’s company values Sandra was acknowledged for over two decades of service at Lidl and for being the cornerstone of the Tipperary store She was recognised for her humble nature and dedication to community engagement which has made a positive impact on the local area Sandra has achieved phenomenal success in supporting Lidl’s charity partnerships alongside building and nurturing relationships with local organisations and charities From organising impactful fundraisers and appeals for food Sandra is always giving her time selflessly and never seeking recognition kindness and community spirit embody the very essence of what it means to be a Lidl Legend Lidl Ireland’s annual National Achievement Awards provide an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the remarkable efforts of colleagues and teams across all areas of the business The awards spotlight exceptional colleagues who have stood out throughout the year and inspired others through their outstanding leadership Lidl Ireland currently employs more than 6,000 employees in its 184 stores Head Office in Tallaght and Regional Distribution Centres at Charleville Lidl Ireland was named a ‘Top Employer’ by the Top Employers Institute for the fifth year running https://www.offalyexpress.ie/section/1236/advertise-with-us weather & more in Offaly and County Offaly All the latest breaking local news from Offaly and County Offaly Keep up to date with the latest sports news Read all the latest Irish news and updates from around Ireland Keep up to date with the latest news from life in Offaly - Offaly Live Offaly Express Offaly News Midland Tribune Tullamore Tribune Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Offaly and County Offaly Read about the latest properties available in Offaly and County Offaly Offaly and County Offaly Met Eireann Weather Forecast Roscrea's Age Friendly group will be represented at a demonstration in Dublin this week to support the National Meals on Wheels programme is holding a demonstration on Wednesday (April 30th) outside Leinster House to highlight the critical need for increased and sustained funding for Meals on Wheels services nationwide The demonstration highlights the importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of the essential service which provide vital support to older people and vulnerable individuals across Ireland Project Co-ordinator for Age Friendly Roscrea who are based in the former Courthouse building on Gaol Road “As an organisation delivering meals in the Roscrea area The older population is growing rapidly and services such as meals on wheels are often provided by voluntary groups with some basic funding from the HSE” many services are under pressure to maintain a much valued service for people in their communities” Members of the Oireachtas are invited to an Information Day in Buswells Hotel with opportunities to drop in throughout the day READ MORE: PICTURES: Age Friendly Roscrea and Youth Service release new book The National Meals on Wheels Network will provide an insight into the work it carries out and its need for increased funding and Meals on Wheels providers will share insights into the invaluable services they deliver across the country as well as the growing challenges they face in their local areas Meals on Wheels services are facing many challenges that risk their ability to meet rising demand and an ageing population is outpacing current funding levels while providers face increasing food and fuel costs Additional pressures such as rising insurance premiums and the drive for digital transformation add further strain—particularly for smaller community-based providers such as in Roscrea MEMORY LANE MONDAY: A stroll through the Offaly archives – Recognise anyone today Leigh Kavanagh is consoled after Offaly's defeat Clever engineering solution could solve Offaly's peat road problem The volunteers will be delighted to welcome friends old and new at St Patrick’s Hall in Delvin (N91 X449) on Sunday Roscrea Mart in Co Tipperary recorded a flying trade at its weanling sale on Wednesday with prices paid for bulls and heifers averaging in the region of €4.20/kg to €4.30/kg Central Auctions manager Michael Harty reported increased competition in last week’s sale stemming from the seasonal decline in weanling entries running ahead of previous years and farmers purchasing for summer grazing systems remaining very active Throughput has tightened in sales nationally over the last fortnight when normally it would be well into May before this occurs Nice-quality continental heifers weighing from 300kg to 430kg sold from €4.30/kg to €4.50/kg with a selection of excellent-quality lots On the opposite side of the quality spectrum prices for small numbers of plainer-quality and dairy-crossbreds ranged from €3.60/kg to 4/kg with live exporters and specialist finishers also active The highlight of the bull trade was prices of €5/kg to €5.80/kg paid for an entry of pedigree Limousin bulls ranging from 300kg to 440kg Feeders also drove prices paid for quality heavy bulls weighing in excess of 470kg to 500kg to €4.20/kg to €4.30/kg this Limousin-cross bull born 03/12/23 sold for €2,300 (€4.34/kg) This quality Charolais-cross bull weighing 525kg and born 17/03/24 sold for €2,290 (€4.24/kg) This well-conformed Limousin-cross bull born 29/06/24 and weighing 265kg sold for €1,390 (€5.25/kg) This quality Limousin-cross bull weighing 315kg and born 29/06/24 sold for €1,780 (€5.65/kg) This top-quality Limousin bull weighing 340kg and born 04/05/24 sold for €1,970 (€5.79/kg) This Limousin bull weighing 460kg and born 18/07/23 sold fro €2,480 (€5.39/kg) This pair of Aberdeen Angus-cross bulls weighing 377kg and born 14/07/24 sold for €1,260 (€3.34/kg) Two Parthenaise-cross bull weighing 280kg and born 10/09/24 sold for €1,230 (€4.39/kg) This pair of Limousin-cross bulls weighing 305kg and born 08/03/24 sold for €1,350 (€4.43/kg) This quality Limousin-cross heifer weighing 300kg and born 20/06/24 sold for €1,370 (€4.57/kg) This 345kg Belgian Blue-cross heifer born 23/04/24 sold for €1,540 (€4.46/kg) this Limousin-cross heifer weighing 355kg sold for €1,600 (€4.51/kg) This Charolais-cross heifer weighing 365kg and born 25/04/24 sold for €1,630 (€4.47/kg) These Aubrac-cross heifers weighing 267kg and born 20/11/24 sold for €980 (€3.67/kg) this Limousin-cross heifer born 01/06/24 sold for €1,250 (€4.90/kg) This Aubrac-cross heifer weighing 295kg and born 17/03/24 sold for €1,060 (€3.59/kg) This Belgian Blue-cross heifer weighing 335kg and born 10/03/24 sold for €1,500 (€4.48/kg) This Charolais-cross heifer weighing 385kg and born 18/06/24 sold for €1,620 (€4.21/kg) This pair of young Charolais-cross heifers born June 2024 and weighing 365kg sold for €1,600 (€4.38/kg) this Charolais-cross heifer born 22/06/24 sold for €1,490 (€4.52/kg) This pair of September-2024 born Limousin-cross heifers weighing 275kg on average sold for €1,370 (€4.98/kg) This 315kg Charolais-cross heifer born 01/06/24 sold for €1,300 (€4.13/kg) This Limousin-cross heifer weighing 340kg and born 03/10/24 sold for €1,450 (€4.26/kg) Contact us Advertise with us Company information Career opportunities Privacy statement Terms of service Commenting policy Change cookies settings Change cookies settings Printed pages stuck to the signs for Racket Hall simply say "closed" while steel fencing surrounds the former country house hotel outside Roscrea once renowned for its hospitality for those travelling the old Limerick to Dublin road but now home to 160 International Protection Applicants One year after heated protests that lasted ten weeks and included violent clashes between demonstrators and gardaí A few cars and children's outdoor toys in the car park point to its changed role but what happened after "the riots" as one of the hotel's residents described them fled Nigeria with her three children last February arriving first in Dublin where she registered with the International Protection Office before being transferred to Roscrea as protests continued outside the hotel she recalls hearing locals "needed their hotel" and "had enough in Roscrea" as other Racket Hall residents who were among the first arrivals told her they and their kids were "scared and felt really bad thinking what have they got themselves into?" Kemmi said she never encountered negativity in Roscrea with locals offering her help like lifts if she "misses a bus" We need your consent to load this rte-player contentWe use rte-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences She smiled as she said she often wonders if "these are the same people who were protesting" last year Currently studying for an adult education course in healthcare support with a view to "working in a nursing home or HSE facility" Kemmi was on a break from classes when I met her and other Racket Hall residents We met at the local "Welcome Group" where volunteers host refugees and asylum seekers for "tea and a chat help with application forms" and local services or to avail of donations of food according to chairman Andrew Walsh who runs a local bus company in Roscrea and is part of the Church Pastoral Committee referring to scenes from the Racket Hall protests last January it "didn't portray Roscrea as a good place to be" A lot of people said gardaí were "heavy-handed" referring to the violent clashes four days into the protest as the first IPA families arrived "taking kids in through the barricades" while one protester was arrested Mr Walsh is clear in his view that things could have been different if there was "good communication out there" to tell people "what was happening he said it has heard about integration happening "through schools and there's a lot of them working" in meat factories or security jobs so "it can't be any harm for the economy in Roscrea either" even if they "still don't have a local hotel" fled Nigeria with his family after the murder of "a close relative" and threats in which his "wife and children were held at gunpoint" He said he came to Ireland as it's a "safe country" protesters and placards when they arrived at Racket Hall Simon said the signs said "Roscrea is full" he added the protesters "weren't really attacking us" and other people told us "we shouldn't mind" because there's "still a lot of space in Roscrea" Simon explained how he works in a local meat factory the "children enjoy school" and they "feel welcome" a cool place" where they would be happy to stay Many locals I meet in Roscrea are reluctant to speak publicly when I mention Racket Hall but some are still annoyed by "what they (the government) done" Acknowledging the hotel was privately owned and offered to the State to house IPAs many are still critical of the way the facility was accepted for this purpose as it was the only hotel in the town and fully functioning right up until the announcement that it would become a State accommodation centre and the night the protests began "we want that hotel back if it's possible at all" said one man who told me he was part of the protest outside it His wife said Roscrea has "400 above in the convent the mother and baby home (former Sean Ross Abbey) is full Another man said the town is being "overrun" though he accepted many of the IPAs and refugees in Roscrea are working and said Two girls in their late teens told me they were not part of the protest as they "welcome everyone" communions" is a common response on Castle Street as one man told me locals now have to go to "Birr The town has "nowhere to bring your partner for a meal out at night" said another passerby outside the now derelict Grants Hotel building across from Roscrea's historic castle this is the building the government agreed "in principle" to fund as a "community hotel" as politicians came under fire for a lack of consultation before Racket Hall's sudden closure Tipperary County Council was given €150,000 for a feasibility study to look into its possible use for this purpose with the process due to be completed in February according to a council spokesperson who added the study is unaffected by the 24-bed building being placed on the open market with for sale signs appearing recently Some locals are cynical that the community hotel plan "will ever go ahead" Local Labour TD Alan Kelly described the funding of the feasibility plan as a "stupid waste of taxpayers' money" aimed at "placating local anger" over Racket Hall local Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Smith believes it can still happen as a new type of "social enterprise" that would "rejuvenate Castle Street" and "bring the community together in a very positive way" Roscrea Chamber of Commerce said that replacing the former 40-bed Racket Hall with a 24-bed facility at Grants would not fill the void left in the town with just "nine en-suite beds now available for overnight stays" in the area but said it would be a "step in the right direction" Local estate agent and Chamber President Séamus Browne said there is still a "definite economic loss" to the local golf club and other hospitality businesses as there would be in "any town to lose their only hotel" He called on the Government "not to consider functioning hotels" or the only hotel in a town as an IPAS centre in future "That option should be taken off the table," he said One year on from the Racket Hall protests in Roscrea the auctioneer said it was "obviously damaging" to the town "What did it achieve at the end of the day" he asked adding the hope that it can be "returned to the town as a hotel" when the State contract comes to an end a spokesperson for the Department of Integration said it "will engage with private providers who state an interest in renewing a contract in order to ensure value for money and provide an effective accommodation system" Roscrea Welcome Group Chairman Andrew Walsh said lessons should be learned from Racket Hall if things like that happen it is going to "give different towns and villages such a bad name" and there's going to be protests starting again He added he hopes the Government will look back on that chapter and say "we can't have that happen" again RTÉ.ie is the website of Raidió Teilifís Éireann RTÉ is not responsible for the content of external internet sites Protests that lasted ten weeks and included violent clashes between demonstrators and gardaí \u003Cp\u003ESome locals are cynical that the community hotel plan \u0027will ever go ahead\u0027\u003C/p\u003E TFI Local Link Tipperary will enhance bus services between Roscrea and Nenagh This enhanced route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network Route 854 will now operate eight daily return services between Monday and Saturday with two services extending to Ballybrophy Rail Station and six services extending to Silvermines the route will operate four daily return services with two service extending to Ballybrophy Train Station and four services extending to Silvermines The enhanced route will provide peak-time and evening services and will offer improved connectivity to Ballybrophy Rail Station Nenagh Rail Station and regional bus services The route will also provide enhanced connectivity for the towns and villages of Silvermines Speaking ahead of the launch TFI Local Link Tipperary General Manager Anthony Moroney said “We are delighted to see the 100% increase in services (four return trips to eight return trips) added to the timetable and the addition of Silvermines and Ballybrophy with this enhancement.  This enhanced service will provide greater opportunities and flexibilty for passengers from the towns and villages that it serves for access to work For route and timetable information, visit www.locallinktipperary.ie Learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan TFI Local Link Laois Offaly will enhance bus services between Portlaoise and Roscrea This enhanced route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network Route 834 will now operate six daily return services Monday to Saturday with an evening service from Thursday to Saturday It will also offer an increased Sunday and Bank Holiday service with six daily return services The enhanced route will offer improved connectivity to Portlaoise Hospital Portlaoise Train Station and regional bus services as well as the villages and areas of Mountrath Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Laois Offaly General Manager Frances Byrne said: “We are delighted to see extra services added to our Sunday timetable with this enhancement.  This service provides a valuable connection from Roscrea Castletown and Mountrath to Portlaoise for access for work For route and timetable information visit www.locallinklaoisoffaly.ie Learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan here. https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/section/1237/advertise-with-us Bringing you live local breaking news, sport, politics, weather & more All the latest breaking local news from Kilkenny County Read the latest crime and court news from Kilkenny Find whats happening in and around Kilkenny Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Kilkenny Read about the latest properties available in Kilkenny Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Kilkenny Recent death notices and obituaries from Kilkenny Latest environmental and climate change news in County Kilkenny Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. To continue reading this article, you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles! Alternatively, you can pay €0.50 per article, capped at €1 per day. Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism! Conor Monks was among the goals for Grennan College PICTURE: PAUL DOYLE They gave their all, but it was All-Ireland agony for Grennan College as Coláiste Pobal Ros Cré held firm to take the silverware. In a closely-fought battle, the Thomastown school showed strength and spirit at SETU Carlow, but went under in the post-primary senior hurling Roinn D final by the narrowest of margins. Despite playing against the wind Grennan took an early lead when Conor Monks rifled home an unstoppable shot on three minutes. However Roscrea hit back, with Gearoid Maher (0-2), Seamie Cleere and James Sampson (0-2) helping to edge their side ahead. Colm Treacy led the Grennan charge with three points, leaving his side a point behind at the break (0-9 to 1-5). The sides traded scores in the early stages of the second half, leaving the game all tied up, before Treacy rattled the net on 42 minutes to push Grennan ahead (2-9 to 0-14). A Roscrea response quickly followed, Paul Dooley firing home from close range to give the Tipp school an advantage they would not lose. Both sides gave their all in those final frenetic 10 minutes, but Roscrea’s strength in defence and across midfield helped to see them through. Coláiste Pobal Ros Cré: Paul Dooley (1-1); Sam Dooley (0-4); Jack Walsh, Seamie Cleere (0-3 each); Gearoid Maher (0-2, 01 free); James Sampson (0-2). Grennan College: Colm Treacy (1-5, 0-1 free); Conor Monks (1-0); Eanna O’Keeffe (0-3); Seán Denieffe, Jamie Cassin, Eoghan Byrne (0-1 each). " + $(".testo_articolo").html().replace(//g, ' To continue reading this article, please subscribe and support local journalism! Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles. To continue reading this article for FREE,please kindly register and/or log in. Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites. You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news! Tracks & Trails returns for a fresh new season this Friday (File Photo) How can we help? Doctor365's walk-in clinic in Kilkenny is open 7 days a week Whether it’s a routine check-up, emergency repair or a complex issue, Heat Pump Pro are here to keep your boiler in top condition Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles. Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm. This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie. Leinster Schools Senior Cup: Cistercian College Roscrea 39 Gonzaga College 33 Cistercian Roscrea came out on the right side of a classic Leinster Schools Senior Cup quarter-final at Energia Park on Wednesday afternoon. In the early going, Roscrea’s strategy was funded by a stealthy maul, forcing a penalty which Jack Deegan slotted in the sixth minute. Listen | 38:41Gonzaga had to be better. They showed how from the restart, Borje Salto Galdon bouncing out of tackles and James O’Dwyer bolting over in the eighth minute. Roscrea’s Fionn Higgins stepped inside the closing Bobby Colbert, allowing Deegan to roll to the line and score. Their hooker Eoin Naughton clamped down for a penalty. Deegan slammed home from 37 metres in the 20th minute. Gonzaga’s maul started to move. Josh Mulligan wriggled free of contact to accelerate to the posts, James O’Dwyer converting for 13-12 in the 24th minute. In the blink of an eye, ‘Zaga were in front from the brilliance of James O’Dwyer and Colbert for Zach Mulligan to ghost over for Daragh O’Dwyer to convert for a 19-13 lead. The fireworks continued. Keelan Dunne’s instinctive kick infield was collected by Rob Carney for the try, converted by Deegan for a one-point edge. Then, Roscrea’s maul put the men in green on their heels for Carney to step through the O’Dwyers for Deegan to land a conversion for 27-19 on half-time. Gonzaga opted for a five-metre lineout from a penalty. The ball was recycled for Zach Mulligan to make the corner, O’Dwyer arrowing the conversion in the 44th minute. Roscrea resorted to what worked best. A penalty was pumped inside the 22 and the maul devoured ground for Naughton to claim the try. Deegan converted to restore the two-score lead. Indiscipline at the ruck offered Roscrea a penalty on halfway. Scrumhalf Fionn Carney tapped and took off for a superb opportunist try for 39-26 in the 50th minute. From a set move, Daragh O’Dwyer released Patrick Masterson through the middle and the recycle happened in time for Colbert to make the corner. Daragh O’Dwyer converted for 39-33 in the 61st minute. That was to be the final score of the game as Gonzaga piled on the phases but strong Roscrea tackling led to two knock-ons. Roscrea: R Carney 2 tries; J Deegan try, 2 pens, 4 cons; E Naughton, F Carney try each. Gonzaga: Z Mulligan 2 tries; J O’Dwyer, J Mulligan, B Colbert try each; D O’Dwyer 4 cons. ROSCREA: S Cusack; K Dunne, R Carney, J Deegan, F Higgins; A Moloney, F Carney; O Doody, E Naughton, H Maher, J Walsh, J Finn, S Killeen, J Miller, W Hayes (capt). Replacements: E Brophy for Miller 41 mins; H Finlay for Dunne 59 mins. GONZAGA: P Coleman; E O’Donovan, P Masterson, B Colbert, Z Mulligan; D O’Dwyer (Capt), J O’Dwyer; J Sheil, J Brophy, M O’Herlihy, M Wall, R Crowe, J Mulligan, B Salto-Galdon, C Kennedy. Replacements: T Noone for Wall, P Dockery for Crowe both 65 mins; D Keane for Coleman 66 mins. Facebook pageTwitter feed© 2025 The Irish Times DAC Fr Anton Pasalic seen blessing Bridie the donkey in St Cronan's Church in Roscrea on Palm Sunday The congregation of St Cronan's Church in Roscrea were treated to a very special surprise on Palm Sunday as Bridie the donkey was led behind the opening procession and paused before the altar for the Blessing of the Palm The moving scene is reminiscent of the noble donkey who carried Mother Mary to Bethlehem and created a very special memory for all in the historic Church located in the centre of historic Roscrea town READ NEXT: RIP: Tributes paid after sister of well-known Tipperary publican passes away Bridie was brought to St Cronan's by her owners and her gentle and relaxed disposition allowed for the unique scene READ NEXT: Man who was killed in fatal car crash in Tipperary has been named locally "The donkey carried Jesus our Lord and God into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday We pray this Holy Week for all in our Pastoral area of St Cronan," Fr Anton Pasalic said during the blessing Pictured above are Bridie the Donkey with her owners Michael Tierney Snr the last remaining residents will vacate the villas in St Anne’s in Roscrea for a fully renovated and refurbished house in Dunkerrin This marks the completion of an earlier policy change to move from a centralised living setting to a more communal system to facilitate the further social and emotional development of all the residents Over the past few years management in St Anne’s with departmental approval in conjunction with the support of parents and staff took a bold and courageous decision to proceed with this communal living approach redesigned and specially refurbished with the needs of the residents in mind in towns and villages throughout North Tipperary setting a freshy approach for a new and more independent living style in a different environment The Daughters of Charity at St Anne’s through their governing body championed this momentous policy decision at a time of declining vocations The Order underwent a gradual withdrawal from the care and everyday working lives of the residents The day-to-day work of providing and caring for the residents required a much greater involvement of lay personnel accompanied by new management structures for the various houses which had been acquired in the various regions as the sisters in St Anne’s became deeply involved in the whole area of care and disability of children and young adults the funding of their work was heavily dependent on the aid and support of parents and volunteers With phenomenal support from the people of Roscrea various groups worked tirelessly over many years through annual events such as field days Thousands of people gathered in the grounds of St Anne’s to attend their mid-summer annual field day events where a wheel of fortune a field auction and numerous other activities provided a wonderful day’s outing for young and old  An annual church gate collection was held in various parishes throughout North Tipperary together with a golf outing at Roscrea Golf Club all of which were organised by the Friends parents and parish volunteers for over 30 years In most recent years greater government and departmental commitment to children with disability and learning difficulties led to much greater financial support to various religious orders and agencies involved in this vast area of care which was warmly welcomed by parents and voluntary committees who had given so much of their time and energy in support of such work as the last remaining residents leave the villas for a more communal living environment to pay a huge tribute to the Daughters of Charity for all their work care and support in the lives of special children which continues through their governing body Similar plaudits are overdue to the parents voluntary bodies and friends throughout the entire service area for their selfless commitment and voluntary work for so many years To the present caring and nursing staff attached to the many houses throughout the service area we thank you sincerely on behalf of the parents While the service area for disability draws to a close on the grounds of St Anne’s the primary school under the Department of Education continues to operate there providing education and care for a number of children with special needs and learning difficulties with the continued support of The Daughters of Charity who played a huge role in the lives of so many people over many decades Pictured are the group who produced the book pictured in the Courthouse - (back l to r) Mrs Larysa Shamrai's Liam Grimes and Dick Conroy;(middle) Nuala King Shamrai and Mary MacMahon; (front) John Browne AGE Friendly Roscrea and Roscrea Youth Service collaborated on a project funded by the ETB Literacy for Life Fund in the summer of 2024 and have produced a stunning new book A group met weekly to share their stories of Roscrea past and present and people who lived all their lives in Roscrea as well as people who have made their home here in the last few years each bringing a unique outlook on their life in Roscrea It was a positive and enlightening experience for all involved” Roscrea through the decades from a storyteller’s perspective,' is available in the Courthouse for anyone who would like a copy “We would like to thank the ETB for the grant towards producing the book It was a learning experience for us all to take the spoken words of those who contributed to the final print stage we would like to thank those who came along each week to share their stories with us It was a great privilege to be a part of the project,” Age Friendly said Irish Limousin breeders kicked off their sale season in style at Central Auctions as they produced one of their best sales in history which was met with a record-breaking average of €5,958 which exceeded the society’s previous breed record average by €219 The highlight of the day came when John and Martina Browne from Granard in Co Longford sold their 16-month-old bull Cartronfree Unbelievable ET for a staggering €26,700 his mother Ampertaine Odell was purchased for 13,000gns at Carlisle and comes from a proven cow family at the highly regarded Ampertaine herd he catalogued with a five-star terminal index of €140 and a massive beef sub-index of €205 auctioneer George Chandler knocked him down to Dovea Genetics for its AI stud Next best at €12,200 was the overall senior champion Lisna Unique from the herd of Dermot Shaughnessy This stylish August 2023-born bull is a son of Ampertaine Elgin and a Ampertaine Gigolo-bred dam He catalogued with a four-star replacement index of €118 and went to auction carrying one copy of both the F94L and Q204X genes A bid of €8,600 secured Drombanny Ulm exhibited by Patrick Sheahan from Co Limerick this high-index bull offered a page full of stars along with breed average calving figures on beef cows and heifers Ulm is a son of Jurancon and the Usse daughter He was the pick of a Co Monaghan-based purchaser Trading at €8,000 was the reserve senior champion Templequain Unbelievable brought out by Brendan O’Shea from Co Laois this October 2023-born bull goes back to a homebred dam by Templequain Kel He displayed a five-star terminal index of €175 as well as a carcase weight figure of +35kg and sold to a herd in Northern Ireland Not far behind at €7,800 was Knockcoolkeare Unstopabull ET exhibited by Michael Roche from Co Limerick This star-studded bull is a son of Ampertaine Foreman and an Ampertaine Commander-bred cow going back to a long line of Castleview females he was acquired by a herd in Northern Ireland A Co Carlow farmer secured the second prizewinner Keltic Utrillo for €7,100 this high index bull is a son of Jaurel and the Keltic Handsome daughter Keltic Nest He ranks in the top 1% of the breed for milk and carries two copies of the F94L gene Judge Keith Redpath from Kelso in Scotland tapped out Brackan Vinnie as his overall junior champion Bred by Padraig Gormley from Carrigallen in Co Leitrim Vinnie is a son of the 70,000gns Ampertaine Magnum and Brackan Spice Girl Having enjoyed a successful show season last summer the double F94L carrier attracted a bid of €6,800 from a top-end suckler herd in Co Cavan Tipperary-based breeder Brendan Hogan parted company with Oldtown Useful at €6,600 Born in September 2023 and sired by Ampertaine Majestic this double F94L carrier packed a tremendous set of indexes and was the choice lot of a Co Kerry farmer Dermot Shaughnessy capped off a memorable day as he realised €6,600 for Lisna Victor this Loyal son offered a nice array of indexes Roscrea Community Development Council’s sub-committee under the Chairmanship of Cllr Shane Lee are finalising plans for Roscrea’s 45th annual successive St Patrick’s Day Parade The organising committee are seeking your participation and support and hope this year to have representation from all community groups in the town to make the 2025 parade a truly community event The parade organisers extend a welcome to all those who wish to enter a float in this year’s parade Float entries are free and floats are welcome to turn up on the day at the assembly point for the parade which is on at old Tesco car park (Lourdes Road) The organisers request that if possible floats would give details beforehand to Parade Secretary Marie (086 0755680) to facilitate the parade narrative and thus give the float and its organisers due exposure and publicity The winning categories are as follows - Best Overall Entry: Chamber of Commerce Perpetual Trophy and €200 sponsored by Roscrea Chamber of Commerce Best Business Float – Lupton & Associates Perpetual Trophy Best Local Community Group/Sports Club – Roscrea Tidy Towns Trophy Special Recognition Award - Roscrea Credit Union Perpetual Trophy and Special Merit Award – Adrian Hewson Perpetual Cup Shop Window Competition: The organising committee are also this year holding its annual Shop Window competition with first the winners of which will be announced from the Review Stand Entry to the parade is free and the Organising Committee are inviting individuals novelty items and community interest groups to enter floats and add to the diversity of the parade contact Shane Lee - Chairperson (086 3296667) or Marie Tooher - Secretary (086 0755680) Divine Mercy Sunday will be celebrated in St Cronan’s Church on this Sunday April 27 The event is a profound reminder of God’s unfailing love and forgiveness - commencing with Holy Mass at 2.30pm - continuing with Divine Mercy Chaplet and holy Rosary All are invited to this special celebration READ NEXT: Roscrea's Blackmills Sessions return for 2025 An exciting range of events have been announced to take place in a Tipperary library during the month of May the annual country wide festival to celebrate creativity as we age the following events are taking place in Roscrea Library Tuesday 13th May at 10.30 am: Candle Painting with Lisa Manton: Design and paint your own pillar candle READ NEXT: CHA-CHING! Lucky Tipperary woman wins big in Split the Pot draw Wednesday 14th May at 2.30pm: Needle Felting Workshop with Olivia O’Donovan: A chance to create your own needle felt brooch in a relaxed atmosphere Wednesday 21st May at 6.30pm: A talk on Heart Health Digestive Issues and Joint Care with Shirley from Healthy Vision Wednesday 28th May at 6.15pm: The Life and Times of a Tipperary Hurling Supporter with Tommy Treacy Tommy Treacy is a lecturer in Griffith College has ministered as a deacon in the Dioceses of Cork and Ross Hurling has always been an important part of his life He has written a book about his passion for the game READ NEXT: Tipperary ETB head office relocated to new premises to make way for special school Booking is required for the Candle Painting and Needle Felting Workshops The Roscrea Parade Committee would like to thank the following: Fr Antun Rev Sean Maguire and Rev Pam Troy for the blessing of shamrock; Paul Phelan of Phelan’s Market House for hosting the Pre Parade reception Roscrea Comhaltas for performing on the Review Stand Conor Abbot for the excellent job on sound and music Sharon Rowland Supervisor of Roscrea Community Forum Special thanks goes to Gearóid Doherty of Doherty Hardware Niall Crofton for the setting up of the Review Stand Inspector Andrew Lyons and the Garda Síochána and Tom and Anne Ralph for the judging of the parade Thanks to the media for the fantastic coverage of the parade and also to PJ Wright and Sean Hogan for the photographs Sincere thanks to the following sponsors/patrons: Tipperary County Council Roscrea Lions Club and The Tower Dry Cleaners Special thanks to Janet Moloney of Euro Giant for providing the flags for Market Square and bunting for the Review Stand – follow their Facebook page Best Overall Entry: Chamber of Commerce Perpetual Trophy and €200 sponsored by Roscrea Chamber:- Roscrea GAA Best Business Float – Lupton & Associates Perpetual Trophy: Milan Motors Best local community group/sports club – joint - Roscrea Lion’s Club and Roscrea Scouts Special Recognition Award - Roscrea Credit Union Perpetual Shield: Ballyskenach – Killavilla All Star Academy Special Merit Award - Adrian Hewson Perpetual Cup- Corville National School A for sale sign on the front of the hotel on Castle Street Exploring options for the future of a closed hotel in Roscrea town centre at a public consultation session last week saw several interesting proposals put forward on how the building can be restored to functionality and return to the hospitality business The Damer Court Hotel on Castle Street (formerly Grant's Hotel and the Pathé Hotel) is privately owned and has been closed for almost 12 years and is for sale which has a commanding presence in the heart of the town is located across the street from Roscrea Castle and is the subject of a feasibility study to examine if the building can be refurbished and possibly purchased by the State and operated under a unique 'community hotel' model €150,000 was made available to the local authority to perform the evaluation which is now at an advanced stage where public submissions are welcome and blueprints of what the potential finished project will be and how the business will operate are being drafted There was a good turnout of local people at the consultation session in the Blackmills complex on Thursday last and an online portal has been created for people to make submissions directly to the council about what they want for the future of the closed hotel one which incorporates apartment housing into the build and a second design with a higher number of hotel bedrooms - both designs retain the Castle Street facing section of the building and include a complete revamp of the rear courtyard portion of the site which is adjacent to the Moneen River and offers opportunities to open a passage from Lourdes Road to Castle Street READ MORE: Sale sign on Roscrea hotel heightens concerns among local people The design incorporating housing includes 10 hotel bedrooms and two four bedroom apartments and seven other apartments with less rooms The other proposal suggests a 21 bedroom hotel replete with a community hub and large kitchen which could expand into a Meals on Wheels service The designs were created by architecture firm Studio Myco and Tipperary County Council's Shane Grogan from the Housing Department was in the Blackmills explaining the proposed designs as well as opening discussion with local people about the limitations and possibilities of the building The final results of the study are anticipated to be published by the end of March and the local authority encourage anyone interested in the building's future to engage and submit their ideas READ MORE: Roscrea hotel feasibility study 'waste of taxpayers money' says local TD The Council are looking for feedback from the community of Roscrea on the potential uses for the site with a view to “enhancing the attractiveness of Roscrea as a town to love If you were unable to attend the in-person session you can still have your say by emailing tcf@tipperarycoco.ie and use the subject line 'Roscrea Feasibility Study' local councillor Michael Smith (FF) who first proposed expanding the Town First rejuvenation plans for the town centre hotel after the closure and repurposing of the Racket Hall Hotel as emergency accommodation last year is calling for Tipperary's Dáil representatives to back the proposal Cllr Smith and the success of the community hotel model has already been proven by a similar enterprise in county Monaghan Calling on Tipperary's TD's to back the report on the proposal for the betterment of the town Cllr Smith acknowledged the challenges of restoring the building to working condition and stressed the urgent need for a hospitality business in the heritage town Patrick's Day Parade in Roscrea is always a wonderful family day out and the 2024 Parade is already shaping up for another great community event Patrick's Day with the 45th Parade through the heritage town on the national holiday and the organisers are inviting everyone to play a part in making the event unforgettable Roscrea Community Development Council’s sub-committee under the Chairmanship of local Councillor are finalising plans for Roscrea’s 45th annual successive St Last year's parade will be a hard act to follow and organisers of the event are hopeful they will again be blessed with beautiful weather this year helping to attract large crowds out on the streets for the myriad of floats and entertainment which will parade up Castle Street and before the review stand on Market Square towards Main Street The organising committee are seeking your participation and support and hope this year to have representation from all community groups in the town to make the 2025 parade a truly community event The organisers extend a welcome to all those who wish to enter a float in this year’s parade Float entries are free and while floats are welcome to turn up on the day at the assembly point in the car park on Lourdes Road the organisers request that if possible floats would give details beforehand to Parade Secretary Marie (086 0755680) to facilitate the parade commentary and give the float and its organisers due exposure and publicity Winning CategoriesThe winning categories are as follows: Best Overall Entry: Chamber of Commerce Perpetual Trophy and €200 sponsored by Roscrea Chamber of Commerce Best Business Float – Lupton & Associates Perpetual Trophy Best local community group/sports club – Roscrea Tidy Towns Trophy Special Merit Award – Adrian Hewson Perpetual Cup Shop Window CompetitionThe Organising Committee are also holding its annual Shop Window Competition with 1st 2nd and 3rd place prizes - the will be announced from the Review Stand after the Parade.Parade Entry For further information or an entry form contact Shane Lee - Chairperson (086) 3296667 or Marie Tooher - Secretary (086) 0755680 The monks of Mt Melleray Abbey in Waterford Mt St Joseph Abbey in Roscrea and Mellifont Abbey in County Louth have voted to form a union where the monks from the three communities are coming together to create a new community that will be called the Abbey of Our Lady of Silence and based in Roscrea The Cistercians were first established in Ireland in 1142 initially at Mellifont Abbey by St Malachy By the time of the Reformation and the Dissolution of the Monasteries there were forty-three houses of monks and three of nuns They now have a presence at six locations on the island of Ireland Bolton Abbey (Co Kildare) Portglenone Abbey (Co Antrim) Superior ad nutum of the Abbey of Our Lady of Silence this week said that after much reflection and soul searching “we as an Order have had to make some very difficult decisions with the aim of ensuring a future for Cistercian life in Ireland “We have been confronted with these difficult decisions as we address the reality of falling numbers and ageing communities; issues which other similar communities are also addressing at this time “We have decided that with effect from 26th January 2025 have already merged as one new single community will be based “This new community has been given the name of ‘The Abbey of Our Lady of Silence’ Our Abbeys at Moone (Co Kildare) and at Portglenone (Co Antrim) will not be affected by this decision and will continue as autonomous communities” three of whom are novices – and already interest has been expressed from others wishing to join us “We are optimistic that this now has the potential to become a vibrant community wherever we finally decide that it will be located “We will now take time to consider how this new community will develop and where it will ultimately reside on a permanent basis “In the context of our decision we must rationalise our use of the three properties formerly associated with the three pre-existing communities in line with our present day needs and resources “No final decisions have been taken at this stage regarding any of the properties which may be vacated in the near future however as decisions are made further announcements will be forthcoming Roscrea continues to go from strength to strength and will not be impacted in any way “This is a difficult time for all the members of our new Community as we strive to meet the challenge of our present day realities “It is especially difficult for those who have spent their entire lives in a specific monastery and must now adjust to these changed circumstances “We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our staff some of whom who have been with us and supported us for decades and the many other loyal volunteers and friends who will be affected by these developments” “None of the previous three abbeys would have survived over the centuries without the support and friendship of those in the locality but also many others associated with them in different ways “We recognise and acknowledge the often profound attachment all these have towards our monasteries and we deeply regret that we will not be able to maintain our presence at all three locations “Our gratitude and prayers will continue to be with those who have shared our journey in so many rich and varied ways here in Ireland over the years” The community members of Our Lady of Silence will continue at their present locations until 26th January 2025 The Order stressed the decision is temporary Thereafter they will vacate Mount Melleray and Mellifont until final decisions have been made in regard to the long term location of the new community Peacefully in the care of the Dean Maxwell Community Nursing Unit surrounded by her loving family Predeceased by her loving husband Micky and her son Paul Sadly missed by her beloved children William Burial afterwards in adjoining new cemetery Donations if desired to Dean Maxwell Community Nursing Unit Funeral mass can be viewed live on www.stcronanscluster.ie (North Tipperary Hospice) Fiona Rigney (Lions Club) in collaboration with North Tipperary Hospice By partnering with local farmers and the local community the project aims to raise funds to support the establishment of a new support centre in Roscrea town which will provide much needed Hospice support services to Roscrea and its environs Farmers are encouraged to rear a calf from their own herd or the Lions Club can source one if needed The farmers will generously donate their time and expertise to raise the calf alongside their own herd Once the calf reaches a suitable age or standard and the proceeds will be shared between the Lions community and the North Tipperary Hospice This project highlights the generosity and community spirit that has been a longstanding tradition among farmers in the area By recognising the strength of the local farming community this endeavour has the potential to raise significant funds for the local Hospice The project not only acknowledges the cooperation and contribution of participating farmers but also invites others to donate towards the purchase of calves to be reared by host farmers North Tipperary Hospice Movement provides a wide range of programmes including psychological Anyone that has been diagnosed with cancer or a life limiting illness carers or friends are entitled to avail of the services free of charge to ensure that no one goes through their experience alone READ NEXT: Hike the Slieve Blooms this week with Roscrea Trailblazers North Tipperary Hospice already have two support centres in Nenagh and Thurles and the opening of their new centre in Roscrea will ensure that services are provided to the people of North Tipperary All funds raised locally stay in North Tipperary to ensure that the services can be provided free of charge to those that need them most For more information contact any member of Roscrea Lions Club or visit www.lionsclubroscrea.ie or contact Helen on 0505 21824 or 087 4350841 or hello@northtipphospice.ie To Donate: IBAN IE14BOFI 90439216624061 is the subject of a study to examine if the business could return to hospitality and tourism or could be used for another purpose should it be rejuvenated and the doors reopened.  Tipperary County Council have invited submissions from the public via an online portal and are also holding a consultation session in the heritage town to meet the public and hear their ideas of what the potential future of the former hotel building could be "As we reach an important point in mapping out a potential vision for the regeneration of the landmark building known as Grant's Hotel on Castle Street in Roscrea we are looking for feedback from the community of Roscrea on the potential uses for this site with a view to enhancing the attractiveness of Roscrea as a town to love the local authority said on the new portal which opened yesterday "We want the community to meet the team involved and give your feedback on creating a new plan for the site "The team will be available  to meet you in the Black Mills in Roscrea on Thursday 27th February between 13:30 and 17:30 and look forward to meeting as many people as possible on the day We look forward to hearing from you".  If you are not able to make it on the day you can still have your say by emailing tcf@tipperarycoco.ie and use the subject line 'Roscrea Feasibility Study.  A decision on if the former Grant's Hotel on Castle Street in Roscrea is viable to be rejuvenated and operated under a unique 'community hotel' model is expected this month which was once the Pathé Hotel and later rebranded as the Damer Court Hotel closed 11 years ago after playing a central role in the lives of generations of people from Roscrea and beyond The government made €150,000 available for a study into whether the disused hotel has potential as a community operated business and the results of that study are expected this month A commitment was made in principle to purchase the former Grant's Hotel following protests around the conversion of the town's only functioning hotel into accommodation for international protection applicants After the closure of the Racket Hall Hotel in January of last year the closed hotel in the centre of the town was thrust into the national spotlight after local Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Smith proposed the government purchase the building and return it to work as a hospitality business - but under a unique community based model similar to a successful enterprise currently operating in county Monaghan The decision to spend €150,000 on a feasibility study to investigate the potential to rejuvenate a long closed hotel was described as 'stupid' and a 'waste of taxpayers money' by Tipperary Labour TD Alan Kelly and also criticised by Independent TD Cllr Smith said the idea could "rejuvenate Castle Street" and "bring the community together in a very positive way" LEINSTER SCHOOLS SENIOR CUP: Cistercian College Roscrea's Jack Deegan scored 17 points for his side Inside centre Jack Deegan amassed a personal haul of 17 points at Energia Park on Thursday as Cistercian College Roscrea powered into the Leinster Schools Senior Cup quarter-finals with a convincing victory against Presentation College Bray Eager to lay down a marker at the Donnybrook venue Roscrea broke the deadlock in the fifth-minute when Kealan Dunne released Deegan’s midfield partner Rob Carney for the opening try of the contest While their Wicklow counterparts got up and running moments later with a successful penalty from Daniel Moraghan the school from the Offaly-Tipperary border subsequently assumed full control of the proceedings Roscrea brought an insurmountable 33-3 cushion into the interval The 2015 champions continued to dictate the play on the resumption and scrum-half Fionn Carney added a sixth try that was supplemented by a fifth conversion from the boot of Deegan Pres Bray did improve as the play progressed and lively replacement Luca Nolan bagged a brace of tries for the Putland Road outfit Yet Cistercian College Roscrea were determined to have the final say and a converted try from full-back Sam Cusack helped them to round off the scoring in clinical style Scorers for Cistercian College Roscrea: Tries: R Carney 2 Scorers for Presentation College Bray: Tries: L Nolan 2 CISTERCIAN COLLEGE ROSCREA: S Cusack; K Dunne (H Finlay 51) J Finn (A Kinsella Garcia 63); S Killeen (51) PRESENTATION COLLEGE ROSCREA: R O’Boyle; J Brandon (C James 67) From as little as €1 a week with our digital introductory offer Already a subscriber? Sign in more leinster rugby articles DERBY: Peter O’Mahony is looking forward to a “spicy” derby when he returns from injury for Munster’s must-win URC derby with Ulster at Thomond Park on Friday. Pic: ©INPHO/James Crombie By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser You have accepted push notifications for this content. If you would like to manage your push notification preferences, you can do so here HAPPY DAYS are here again at Redmonds of Roscrea.This year the leading photographers are supporting the fantastic Jack and Jill Foundation.Donate €50 to Jack and Jill and receive a Redmonds of Roscrea portrait voucher valued at €175 100% of all €50 donations go directly to Jack and Jill READ NEXT: THE BIG READ: Offaly man has given a lifetime of service to traditional music and Birr parish visit www.redmond photography.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram - Redmonds of Roscrea - for more info A busy main road through North Tipperary is closed today following an incident on the road last night The N62 Roscrea – Templemore road is closed this morning following a collision last night The three vehicle incident happened at around 10.30pm at Gurtnagowna – one person has been hospitalised with serious but non-life threatening injuries Traffic is diverted to enable crash investigators attend the scene with smaller vehicles redirected through Clonakenny village and HGV's via Dunkerrin village The road is expected to reopen later today sold for €3.500 and pictured are Jerry Noland (Judge) Presenting the prize to the overall winner sponsored By Centenary Roscrea are Jerry Noland (Judge) Ava Maloney (Centenary) and Pat Hally (Judge) Pictured above at the Central Auctions Fatstock Show and Sale in Roscrea Mart is the 2025 Show Champion winner sponsored by Ivan Hastings are Jerry Nolan (Judge) Ava Maloney (Centenary) and Pat Hally (Judge) Photos: PJ Wright Pictured above at Central Auctions Fatstock Show and Sale in Roscrea Mart are Kait Murphy Pictured above are Michael Harty (Manager at Roscrea Mart) Pictured at the Central Auctions Fatstock Show and Sale in Roscrea Mart are Michael Harty (Manager) The Thomas MacDonagh Pipe Band taking part in Roscrea's 45th St Patrick's Day Parade drew record crowds to the heart of the heritage town to enjoy an event filled with music and dancing all showcasing the enormous talent of the young people of Ireland's third oldest town John Lupton welcomed the throngs of spectators from the Review Stand on Market Square to the hour-long Parade featuring dazzling dancers superb singers and fascinating display of machinery Thankfully the 2025 Parade was blessed with good weather which helped attract large crowds onto the streets to watch the entertainment unfold for what has become one of Roscrea's proudest traditions - overcoming the foot and mouth crisis of 1999 by holding the annual Parade in the summer and only being interrupted for two years by the Covid-19 pandemic Several beautiful vehicles from the local Vintage Club took part in Roscrea's Parade The Theresa Larkin School of Music get set to take part in the Parade The Parade Committee would like to thank the following: Paul Phelan of Phelan’s Market House for hosting the Pre Parade reception special thanks goes to Gearoid Doherty of Doherty Hardware Inspector Andrew Lyons and the Garda Siochana all the participants of floats and Tom and Anne Ralph for the judging of the parade Pictured above and below are Roscrea Lions Club taking part in the 45th Roscrea St Thanks to the media for the fantastic coverage of the parade especially Darren Keegan and also to PJ Wright and Sean Hogan for the photographs The Theresa Larkin School of Music are always a favourite at the Roscrea Parade Roscrea Lion’s Club and The Tower Dry Cleaners Special thanks to Janet Moloney of Euro Giant for providing the flags for Market Square and bunting for the Review Stand – follow their Facebook page Euro Giant Roscrea and to Roscrea Comhaltas for providing the excellent music at the Review Stand Pictured above are the young members of Roscrea Rugby Club taking part in the 45th St The Thomas MacDonagh Pipe Band march in front of Roscrea Castle towards Market Square Roscrea Scout Troop taking part in the 45th Roscrea St Best Overall Entry: Chamber of Commerce Perpetual Trophy and €200 sponsored by Roscrea Chamber:- Roscrea Hurling Club Best Business Float – Lupton & Associates Perpetual Trophy: Milan Motors Derek Russell of Roscrea Stands Up driving the tractor-train on Castle Street  Pictured above and below are the students of Corville National School aboard their float in the Roscrea Parade Pictured above is Milan Motor's Guinness car arriving on Market Square in the 45th Roscrea St Arthur Crawford of the Free Spirit MCC Motorcycle Club from Roscrea aboard his BMW motorbike The members of Roscrea's Free Spirit Motorcycle Club who have taken part in the Roscrea St A Lanz 22 tractor from the 1940s era taking part in the 45th Roscrea St Members of Roscrea's Oasis Christian Church taking part in Roscrea 45th St Patrick's Day Parades leads the 45th successive Parade through the heritage town Members of the Roscrea Rocket Racers Kids Club and excitement at the Roscrea Rocket Racers Kids Club The club was bursting with life as children enjoyed a fun-filled program packed with music and a thrilling Easter Egg Race to top it all off READ NEXT: Roscrea Musical Society hard at work on their 82nd production A fantastic three days where creativity met faith and just have a great time together and they are already counting down to the Summer Kids Club happening 21st–24th July at Sacred Heart Primary School in partnership with Roscrea Churches Together READ NEXT: Roscrea Trailblazers are headed for the bluebells of Knockbarron “We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable adventure!” USE THE ARROWS ABOVE OR THE NEXT BUTTON TO SEE MORE PICTURES Pictured performing a rousing rendition of 'Forever Friend' are Joan Ryan Age Friendly Roscrea held their postponed New Year Party attended by 75 people in the Norebrook Lounge Age Friendly Roscrea had postponed the event for a week due to the recent heavy snow so everyone was up for a good day out after being confined to home for the week previously “We would like to thank Brigette Martin and her staff in the Norebrook Lounge for the wonderful welcome and lovely setting for this event” Pictured above are Age Friendly Roscrea's event organisers Mary McMahon (Coordinator) and Magda Machowicz Świderska Food was provided by Tommy Greed of the Gantly Way restaurant with all clean plates going back to the kitchen!Music was by Tommy Flynn with a few songs from the audience and plenty of dancing making it a very memorable night It was a most enjoyable afternoon with everyone catching up on news and chat Pictured above enjoying the Age Friendly New Year party are Michael and Rita Murphy and pictured below are Pat and Bridie Teehan “We look forward to the next day out,” Age Friendly Roscrea said Pictured above enjoying the postponed Age Friendly New Year party in Clonakenny's Norebrook Lounge are Eileen Carroll and Mary O’Brien Age Friendly Roscrea are getting back into the swing of things and looking towards a very busy 2025 - here are some of the groups and events you can take part in: the COPD support group meet in the Leisure Centre for an exercise class Pictured above are Mary O’Meara and John O’Brien and below are Patricia Gleeson On Wednesday January 22nd we have our monthly Courthouse Café for people living with memory loss and on Wednesdays we also have our weekly Ukulele classes at 11am and 12pm Chair yoga at 2pm and the Rosie Greys at 3.15pm The Book Club is the last Thursday of the month at 3pm and on Fridays we have digital skills at 10.30am and our Friday Club at 2pm Pictured above enjoying the postponed Age Friendly New Year party in Clonakenny's Norebrook Lounge are Anne Minogue & Betty Kelly The Friday Club has a door-to-door bus service if you would like to avail of it Our Family Carers Ireland carers support group meets on the second Friday of the month If you would like any further information about any of Age Friendly Roscrea's activities and events please contact the office at (0505) 22550 or (089) 4682164 Pictured above enjoying the postponed Age Friendly New Year party in Clonakenny's Norebrook Lounge are Jim Kennedy and Sarah Ormond Pictured above enjoying the postponed Age Friendly New Year party in Clonakenny's Norebrook Lounge are are Caroline and Mary Reid and Nancy Carey Trease Cunningham,  Alice Williams Pictured above at the Age Friendly Roscrea postponed New Year 2025 Party are Mary T Caroline Reid and Ann Maher in the Norebrook Lounge  Pictured at the Age Friendly New Year Party which was postponed are Alice Williams and Joan Dooley A scene from the 10 weeks of protests outside Racket Hall Hotel in Roscrea at the start of last year Roscrea's Racket Hall Hotel has been closed to the public and repurposed as emergency accommodation for a year since January and a local group are concerned the facility may never return to the hospitality and tourism business.  Roscrea Community Action Group have contacted the new Fianna Fáil Minister for Justice pleading for him to intervene after the owners of the former hotel applied to recategorise the building The group informed the Minister the community is concerned that the owners of the hotel have lodged a Section 5 declaration to change the purpose of the building from a hotel providing direct provision to an International Protection Centre and that works are underway to increase the accommodation capacity After a 10-week long angry protest outside the hotel located on the outskirts of Roscrea and adjacent to Roscrea Golf Club the group said they wish to avoid a repeat of the "anger frustration and protests that surrounded the initial takeover” and saw the Garda riot squad deployed in Roscrea The group expressed what they feel is the predominant understanding in Roscrea that the facility would return to use as a hotel and is being used in an emergency capacity to provide accommodation.  Last week RTÉ's Radio One 'Drivetime' show featured a two part series exploring the community's feelings a year on from the protracted protests and large march through the streets of the heritage town who's future post-industrial lifeline was proclaimed by many elected representatives to lie in tourism and hospitality is now bereft of a functioning hotel and many people expressed concern for the town's once budding tourism product pointed out that Roscrea currently has only nine en-suite rooms available for tourists and that even if the resurrection of the Damer Court (Grant's Hotel) on Castle Street under a new 'community model' is successful it won't bridge the divide left behind by the loss of the Racket Hall and it's almost 50 high quality rooms which cost €150,000 to perform and the results of which are expected this month will reveal if the future of the town centre hotel could feasibly be rejuvenated and returned to business is much anticipated in Roscrea Roscrea Community Action Group have sent a letter to new Minister for Justice highlighting their concerns about changes at Racket Hall The group informed the Minister the community is concerned that the owners of the hotel have lodged a Section 5 declaration to change the purpose of the building from a hotel providing direct provision to an International Protection Centre The group say part of the building is undergoing works to increase the accommodation capacity “You will be aware of the volatility of the situation amongst the community as a result of the loss of our only hotel and the manner in which the takeover took place In addition you'll also be aware of the current concerns regarding the number of IPA's residing in various centres in Roscrea” “The last government admitted to it's failings in our town and it's people by taking over the town's only functioning hotel that government gave public assurances that a town's only hotel would never again be taken for use in this way we wish for this new government to not make the same mistake We need current leaders to honour those assurances in relation to changing this premises from a hotel to an IPA centre” It was the understanding of the townspeople that the takeover of Racket Hall was a temporary change of purpose with a short-term contract to an immediate problem They also requested the government's Community Engagement Team to better communicate with the people of Roscrea to provide some clarity frustration and protests that surrounded the initial takeover” Roscrea Community Action Group said in their letter to Minister O'Callaghan Excitement is building in Coláiste Phobal for what is to be the school’s first ever 5K Fun Run/Walk fundraiser on Sunday 9th March.  The event starts at 10am with registration taking place from 9:15am.  Coláiste Phobal's Parent's Association are working hard behind the scenes to organise what promises to be a fun filled morning and we are inviting all members of our community to come out and support us the walk "We would also like to the Premier Credit Union Roscrea for their help and sponsorship with the event" Roscrea is a town with a lot going on this January check out some of the things happening in the town Age Friendly RoscreaAge Friendly Roscrea's activities return this week in the Courthouse on Wednesday (Jan 15) with Chair Yoga at 2pm and on Friday (Jan 17) the Friday Club will meet from 2 to 4pm Contact (089) 4682164 for more information on any of Age Friendly Roscrea's groups and resources Progressive 25 Card GameCards continue every Wednesday evening in Roscrea Muintir na Tíre Hall Come along for a friendly game of cards and a cup of tea after Shinrone Women's GroupUnfortunately due to the adverse weather last week Shinrone Women's Group postponed their meeting until this week Siobhan Connolly Hogan will be their guest speaker this week at 8pm in Shinrone Community Centre talking on Positive Psychology Come join them for some chats and planning for the year ahead with some Tea/Coffee and treats A lovely social evening to relax and enjoy Meetings on the second Wednesday of the month Roscrea Dance ClubIf you are a reasonably experienced dancer then Roscrea Dance Club (RDC) would love to have you join our Improvers Dance Class in the Muintir na Tíre Hall every Thursday night from 8pm to 10pm For more details please contact (087) 4178311 Country Club BadmintonBadminton is now underway in Colaiste Phobal Roscrea Adult training 7-9pm every Wednesday & Juvenile 7-9pm every Friday Narcotics AnonymousRoscrea's new Narcotics Anonymous group meet at the Legion Hall in the grounds of St Cronan's Church (beside the Franciscan Friary) every Friday Anyone interested in more information about the group can contact Richard on (089) 4621777 or James on (085) 2180041 Roscrea Country MarketRoscrea Country Market opens on Fridays from 10am to 12.30pm in the Muintir Na Tire Hall Dates For Your DiaryThe Ballyskenagh Drama Group will be staging their production of 'The Mating Season' by Sam Cree at Citeaux Hall on Thursday 20th Roscrea St Vincent De PaulThe Roscrea Conference of the Society of the St Vincent De Paul helpline number is (087) 444 1835 Those who need assistance should contact the number and all calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence Dimma BooksDimma Books at the Vincent's SVP Shop on Church Street in Roscrea have been bequeathed a collection of books from Paul Durcan’s extensive library These are mainly paperback of a diverse nature and all with Paul Durcan’s own signature Paul turned 80 recently and is one of Ireland's leading poets This is an opportunity to acquire for a few euro a signed book from the library of a truly great modern Irish poet Also many hundreds of new and some rare volumes now on display in Roscrea’s boutique bookshop including the new book by on Birr's John Feehan Age Friendly Roscrea's first 'Rambling House' of 2025 Age Friendly Roscrea held their first Rambling House of 2025 last week in their headquarters in the old Courthouse They started the evening remembering their good friend Anthony Bourke who passed away in December Anthony attended most Rambling House events Pictured below are ukulele player Mary Curtin Delaney and singer Jim Kennedy and above enjoying tea for two are Marie Ryan and Mary Ryan Anthony supported many organisations in Roscrea and further afield and gave freely of his time and wonderful talent as a singer Pictured above are ukulele players George McManus and Dick Conroy and Pat Flanagan in the background and below are trio Mary Carroll The evening was enjoyed by all with no end to the talent - singers “We would like to thank all our musicians who turn up without fail for the Rambling House Pictured above in the kitchen are Bredea Reynolds Sean Ryan and Age Friendly Roscrea's Co-ordinator who keeps the show on the road” Age Friendly Roscrea said The next Rambling House is planned for the 5th of March Pictured above performing a duet in the courthouse are Breda Reynolds and Michael McEvoy Pictured above enjoying the Rambling House are Francis and Linda De Lewis Pictured above singing in the courthouse are Seamus Moloughney Pictured above is Billy Costello singing at the Rambling House Pictured above at the first event of 2025 are Colin Williams Pictured above  are members of the ukulele group Marie O'Meara Rehearsals are well under way for Roscrea Musical Society’s 82nd production This musical extravaganza will go on stage at the Abbey Hall in the town from May 5 to 10 Roscrea Musical Society has been producing great entertainment for the people of Roscrea and farther afield since 1940 Staging a show of this level takes a huge effort from a great team of people From Director - Paul Norton; Choreographer Mary Rose McNally to a hard working committee who take care of stage The Musical’ is based on the 1990 movie starring Johnny Depp and also included well-known names such as Iggy Pop The musical version was first staged in San Diego in November 2007 and their love sparks a clash between the Drapes and The Square community The music score is filled with catchy tunes and 1950s nostalgia Tickets are now available and selling fast for this lively and fast paced production log onto www.gr8events.ie/roscrea or call 087 6781575 Roscrea Heritage Society is delighted to host Na Réadóirí (Séamus Moloughney Paddy Curran and Pat Byrne) on Friday 25 April for the first of the Black Mills Sessions 2025 a stunning heritage site situated on Church Street dates from the first half of the 18th century and is located near the 11th century Round Tower and 12th century Romanesque church The acoustic properties of the mill make it an ideal venue to hold music sessions tickets (€10) must be purchased in advance via Eventbrite READ NEXT: 'Significant progress' on new Midlands nursing home to replace 50-year old facility The 2025 sessions will take place on the last Friday of the month (April - November) Tickets for each session will go on sale on the first Monday of each month Doors open at 7.30pm with artists performing at 8pm until 10pm Join us on Friday for what promises to be a very enjoyable evening of folk song Premier Credit Union was delighted to be the main sponsor of the inaugural Coláiste Phobal Fun Run/Walk which took place on Sunday morning week last under glorious sunshine organised by the School's Parents Association was a fantastic opportunity to unite the local community while raising valuable funds for the Roscrea secondary school expressed his enthusiasm for the event and the Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to the local area “We were delighted to support the Coláiste Phobal Fun Run/Walk and to stand behind the fantastic efforts of the Parents Association we are deeply committed to investing in our local communities and this sponsorship is one of many initiatives we have proudly supported over the past year It’s wonderful to see events like this bring people together in such a positive way and we look forward to playing our part in making it an annual tradition.” Mr King also expressed gratitude to Damien Carroll for their outstanding efforts in ensuring the Premier Credit Union brand was well represented on the day Premier Credit Union shares the Parents Association's hope that this event will become a staple in the community calendar fostering local spirit while generating much-needed support for the school I farm: “Roughly 200ac between Roscrea and Dunkerrin on the old N7 in a place called Ballinakill We are a suckler beef and sheep enterprise 20 ewes and one stubborn ram called Hank.” Cows: “Our cows are Hereford-cross and purebred Aberdeen Angus Getting into the Angus is a recent venture my sisters Eleanor and Jenny and my husband Conor.” Calving: “We calve from January to March as we find it suits our system we can get them out to spring grass fairly quick We have a Limousin stock bull – we find him to be easy calving and this year will be his fourth crop of calves We AI the purebreds with Dovea Genetics sires and we’re hoping to have bulls at the sales next spring.” Calves: “All calves are kept until slaughter We castrate the bulls and keep them as steers The cows are on hay while they are drying off this also keeps their straw bed more manageable We have recently housed and weaned this year’s calves They were dosed four weeks prior to housing.” Aoife Sutton feeding meal to her forward stores Stores: “The forward store cattle were also put in for meal feeding after spending time out at grass These were purchased locally over the summer and autumn in Central Auctions Roscrea and Templemore Mart so it’s always a good idea to have bales of hay on hand Sheep: “We have a small flock of sheep including 20 Texel ewes running with a Texel ram We will lamb for three weeks in March indoors.” Aoife with her springer spaniel Oscar in her John Deere tractor Derek Russell and Florrie Spillane in Roscrea which traditionally adorns Market Square in the heart of the heritage town needed renewal for the recent Christmas season and a request for the public to contribute to raise the necessary €500 received a phenomenal response Chairperson of Roscrea Stands Up and John Lupton Treasurer of Roscrea Stands Up received a cheque from Florrie Spillane of Spencer Spillane Expert Roscrea and are pictured above for the donation "Many thanks to Florrie and to Paul Phelan proprietor of Phelan's Market House Pub for their generous donations towards the repair work of the Roscrea Community Crib" Chairman of Roscrea Stands Up told the Tribune "Many thanks to the people from Roscrea whom also offered donations - community spirit is truly alive in Roscrea" The surplus funds will be used for a youth focused project which will be announced by Roscrea Stands Up later this year who recited Prayers and blessed the new crib and all those present in December February 4 to facilitate refurbishment works.  You can use your library membership in any library on Tipperary or anywhere in the country You can also log onto their website at tipperarylibraries.ie for any online services to ensure that there is as little disruption as possible Books can also be returned to any library anywhere in the country. The reopening in February will be from early morning and the same opening times as previously will apply.  It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Michael Minogue. Michael is pre-deceased by his beloved wife Maisie. He is deeply mourned by his loving sons Paul, David, Aidan and Michael Jnr., his daughters Carmel, Valerie and Ciara, his sisters Teresa and Sheila (USA), his beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends. Reposing in Tierney's Funeral Home, Roscrea (E53NY70) on Monday evening from 4.00pm to 7.00pm. Removal from his residence on Tuesday morning at 11.30am arriving in St. Cronan's Church, Roscrea (E53PK82) for Funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in the adjoining new cemetery. Michael's warmth, kindness and love for his family and community will be forever remembered. Tipperary County Council  has given notice that it proposes to temporarily close the R491 road at Willison Roscrea for over a month to facilitate road and bridge upgrade works The local authority proposes to make an order under the Roads Act (1993 - 2015) closing the road from midnight on Monday The diversion route will be via the N62. Diversion (From Roscrea Town direction) is through Roscrea Main Street to get onto N62 towards Birr (Birr Road) diversion route turns at R492 (Sharavogue) towards Shinrone Diversion from Shinrone direction is diverted towards R492 Sharavogue until merging with N62 which directs back to Roscrea Town Objections to the proposed temporary closure may be submitted in writing to Road Closures Nenagh not later than 12 noon on Thursday 10 October 2024 or by e-mail to roadclosures@tipperarycoco.ie Some of the huge crowd who took part in the Wren Walk 2024 in Mount St Joseph's Abbey Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie.