Minister Naughten to address delegates at Facebook’s Boost Your Business Event in association with Galway Chamber of Commerce

 

  

Event titled ‘Unlocking Ireland’s Digital Economy’ will take place in Wellpark Retail Centre, Galway

16th September 2016: Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten TD will speak about the importance of delivering high speed broadband to support small businesses during a fireside chat at the Facebook Boost Your Business event in association with Galway Chamber of Commerce, it has been announced. 

The event, which takes place in the Wellpark Retail Centre in Galway on Friday 23rd September, aims to help small businesses tackle the challenges of being online by providing practical face-to-face support and inspiration from local entrepreneurs.

People are spending the vast majority of their time on mobile, with 20% of that time spent on Facebook and Instagram. Of all people on Facebook in Ireland, more than 86% are connected to at least one Irish business and more than 55 million people around the world are connected to a business in Ireland. However, businesses are still facing challenges to reach the right people, scale their operations internationally or use limited resources effectively.

With 2.4 million people a month using Facebook on their mobiles in Ireland, and a global community of more than 60 million small businesses, Facebook can help companies fulfil their digital potential by providing an instant mobile marketing platform with easy to access tools. 

At the Boost Your Business event, Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Action & Environment will join business journalist and RTE broadcaster Richard Curran for a fireside chat and Orla Malone from Facebook will give a talk on the evolution on communication.

In addition to these sessions, successful Galway-based businesses The Dough Brothers, Aran Sweater Market and Marrey Bikes will share tips on how they have used Facebook to meet their business goals. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops, providing training on how best to use Facebook and Instagram.

Niamh Sweeney, Head of Public Policy and Economic Growth Initiatives Manager for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Facebook, commented:

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, they drive economic growth and new jobs. As more and more people turn to the web and to their phones to discover and connect with businesses, it’s crucial that small businesses have an online presence. And Facebook is the best platform for them to connect with customers both in Ireland and internationally. The Boost Your Business event aims to equip local businesses with the vital skills and resources to unlock the potential of the digital economy.”

Conor O’Dowd, President of Galway Chamber of Commerce, said: 

“As President of Galway Chamber of Commerce, a membership organisation with a remit to make business better for our members, I welcome Facebook’s Boost your Business event to Galway. As the major shareholder in the Galway Technology Centre and as a founder of The PorterShed, Galway Chamber works with SMEs on an ongoing basis as they seek to grow and expand internationally from their base in Galway. We are also delighted to welcome Minister Denis Naughton and we look forward to learning how to further maximise our business potential over the course of the morning.”  

Boost Your Business run by Facebook and in association with the Galway Chamber of Commerce is a free event for business owners and those interested in how to use Facebook to unlock the potential of their business. Register to attend the event here: FBBoostYourBusiness.ie.

Green light for rehab unit

photo © Sean O'Dowd

"Green light for rehab unit good for patients nationwide"

The decision to proceed with the design and planning for the new rehabilitation unit at Roscommon University Hospital is a positive development for all patients who will rely on rehabilitation services in every corner of Ireland, Minister Denis Naughten has stated. 

“When complete, this project will take pressure of the National Rehabilitation Hospital and ensure that more patients are treated closer to home and in a more timely manner,” he explained.

Minister Naughten added: “It was deeply disappointing to discover during the talks on the programme for government that the funding for Roscommon’s rehabilitation unit had been dropped from the capital plan even though it had been on the HSE list 12 months earlier. 

“As I said before this is not about pointing the finger of blame but it was one of my priorities on entering Government to ensure that this commitment to the people of the West of Ireland was delivered.

“I'm delighted that the rehab unit is now back on track and I look forward to the funds being made available to construct this building once the project has gone through the planning stage,” concluded Minister Naughten. 

M.Donnolly GAA Interprovincial Wheelchair Hurling League

The Sports Complex, Boyle, Co. Roscommon will play host to the fourth and final round of the M.Donnolly GAA Interprovincial Wheelchair Hurling League on Saturday 27th August. For the first time an All-Ireland Wheelchair Hurling event will be hosted in Co. Roscommon. Barry Lowe is the Roscommon delegate on the Connacht GAA Games for All Committee and is responsible for co-ordinating this Wheelchair Hurling Interprovincial event in Boyle.

Connacht GAA Council are sponsors of this event which sees teams and players travelling from Ulster, Munster and Leinster as well as Connacht, competing for Provincial honours.

The Interprovincial Wheelchair Hurling League and Championships were formed in 2013 and provide a competitive sporting environment for wheelchair users. The competition has gone from strength to strength in the past three seasons with the Provincial Councils providing the platform for the players to compete.

So far the Interprovincial Wheelchair Hurling League has seen blitzes hosted in Belfast (Ulster), Cork (Munster) and Dundalk (Leinster), with the final round this Saturday 27th August, in Abbey Community College, Boyle.  Reigning champions Ulster are in pole position to take honours again this season, with all three other Provinces in hot pursuit. 

The opening ceremony commences at 10.15 am and the games begin at 11am. Admission is free and All are welcome to attend.  The Connacht GAA Wheelchair Hurling team are hoping for strong home support to help them in their quest to leapfrog Ulster, and the others, in the league table.

The Connacht GAA Wheelchair Hurling team have been in training under the expert guidance of coaches Adrian Hession (Mayo), Thaigh Morley (Mayo), Tim Hynes (Sligo) and Cathal Cregg (Roscommon).

The Connacht GAA Wheelchair Hurling panel is as follows:

Fergal Mahon (Western Gaels - Roscommon)

Sarah Cregg (Western Gaels - Roscommon)

Liam O’Boyle (Knockmore - Mayo)

Peter Egan (Kilmovee - Mayo)

Pat Carty (Tourlestrane - Sligo)

Stephen Melvin (Owenmore Gales - Sligo)

Shane Curran (Moycullen - Galway)

Aidan Hynes (Calry - Sligo)

Tom Fleming (Charlestown - Mayo)

Val Leneghan (Charlestown - Mayo)

For further information on Wheelchair Hurling in Connacht contact Adrian Hession at 087 245 0566

Reeling in the Year with Boyle Chamber of Commerce

Reeling in the Year with Boyle Chamber of Commerce

Boyle Chamber of Commerce which has been led by Alan Cooney of Cooney Motors for the last two years and will be handed over to Bodo Funke for the coming year, reviews the year with positivity

Over the last year, the Chamber has been liaising or supporting financially, many local organisations to include Boyle Town Team, Boyle Tidy Towns, Boyle Courthouse Action Group, Boyle Arts Festival and the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Indeed many of our Chamber members are also involved in these organisations; All involved in the Chamber as with all the voluntary organisations have an interest in working tirelessly for the Business and wider Community of Boyle, working towards common goals and a vision for Boyle - to attract more footfall, through Business and Events and ensure Boyle is always looking its best.

We are delighted to be to be associated with the wonderful town enhancements and floral displays throughout Boyle, undertaken by Boyle Tidy Towns which also received great support and assistance from Roscommon County Council, Boyle Chamber of Commerce have committed an annual monetary donation to assist with the floral displays for the town, and extend our compliments to Amanda and her team on their Trojan work.

We congratulate the vibrant hard working Committee of Boyle Arts Festival on their wonderful ten days of attractions and Art which give great pride and joy to the locals as well as outstanding entertainment to all who visited Boyle during the festival in such large numbers. The Chamber is delighted to be a main sponsor of the Boyle Arts Festival which certainly keeps Boyle on the Map.

One of our Main projects this year, led by Cecil Draper, which finally has come to fruition was the restoration and erection of the Mill Engine - it’s installation at the Mockmoyne / Chapel Street junction, of the old Blackstone Single Fly-Wheel with it historic link to our Town provides an attractive feature when entering Boyle from the north West. Ironically the Mill Engine was purchased by Boyle Chamber under the Presidency of Seamus Cooney (Alan’s Dad), many years ago.

History of the Diesel  Engine - Stewarts of Boyle (1932)

Hugh Stewart came to Boyle with his family in the early 1880’s.  Having purchased a Corn Mill he soon established himself as a Miller of note in the area.  Realizing that Direct Current (DC) electricity was a great new source of power, not only for driving mill wheels, but also to provide light and power to the local community.

He set out to provide Electricity using the power of the river to drive a DC Generator. In 1904 he negotiated a contract with the Midland and Great Western Railway to provide lighting for Boyle railway station. His son John (known as Jack) was apprenticed to an Electrical Company and became an electrician in the early 1900’s. This continued the family’s interest in producing Electricity for Boyle.  To further improve the supply they purchased this Diesel engine to drive the DC generator.  This was a Blackstone Diesel engine which would have been a top make of the time. The cost was £420.  By the late 1930’s they had over 250 customers in the town of Boyle. In the following decades their Customer numbers increased. Even though the state owned Electricity Supply Board had begun to make AC power available through the Shannon Hydro Station at Ardnacrusha, Stewarts were still providing DC power to the town of Boyle.

It was not until 1965 that ESB took over the electrical supply for Boyle and the engine was retired after over 30 years of service - a great record.  (Insert Photo)

Boyle Chamber have been funding the night lighting of two iconic buildings/landmarks in Boyle, to include Boyle Abbey and the Church of Ireland and can only support such projects through the Boyle Chamber Lotto which is ran weekly and is supported wonderfully by our local Community.  A contribution was also made to The Railings at the Famine Graveyard, Plunkett Ave, and also to St Patrick's Day Parade which brings great crowds to our streets and allows our locals display their wares.

Continuous liaising with Roscommon County Council, to include Roscommon Partnership and Local Enterprise offices are a priority for the Chamber to ensure Boyle is always to the fore - and recent meetings with  Minister Denis Naughton making him aware of the extensive voluntary contribution and effort from all the organisations in Boyle, we hope will lead to further developments.

Next year we hope to launch an initiative to improve broadband in the Boyle area for both business and residential and this is also a priority for our Minister and very necessary to attract larger businesses to Boyle.

However with Nine Businesses currently operating from the Boyle Enterprise Centre, we are delighted to report that our flagship project for the Chamber continues to thrive.

These include two new businesses who located to the centre during 2016 including Pro Cloud Horizon, a Boyle based company providing Cloud Commerce Solutions. Existing businesses in the centre are Sonar Solutions - A Computer Software Company providing solutions to Medical Services & Cash and Carry Businesses; MK Financials - Financial advice/Pensions and Insurances;  Freqcon GmbH - Battery Storage Systems; Slugs & Snails - Childrens’ clothing designers;  London Speaker Bureau-Event Management;  TKF Training – Health & Safety Training and Role Skillnet - a Training Network for Businesses.

The Centre also provides meeting/training and conference space for business and community organisations. Facilities include high speed broadband, multimedia equipment, photocopying & catering on site. The Centre partners with the Roscommon Local Enterprise Office and Roscommon Leader Partnership to provide supports for new and existing businesses. The Centre also partners with Role Skillnet to provide funding and support for business training. For more information, visit www.boyleenterprise.com or email info@boyleenteprise.com

www.boyletm.com

With support from the Local Enterprise Office and Boyle Town team, Boyle Chamber are delighted to have the Boyle TM website revamped and updated and showing Boyle at its best, and encourage all businesses to ensure their own listing is included or updated as necessary, this can be done by simply e-mailing hello@boyletm.com.  We hope the site will increase commercial activity within the town and help promote Boyle as a great tourism location. It also enables us to keep the community updated on projects in which the town is involved. We now have established a facility to keep content fresh and up to date on social media.

Tourism: Boyle is truly the Jewel in the crown of Roscommon. We have actively worked with County council to help promote connectivity with Lough key and Boyle town in an effort to drive business back into the town centre. With this regard work is ongoing to establish a proper cycle route connecting the park and town. In previous years we have facilitated a Shuttle bus to run at peak times. We are delighted with the “Local Link route”, which was widely used to and from Lough Key during the Summer months and we encourage all locals to use the service both through town and on the wider routes - as if we don’t use it we could lose it. For an outsiders view of Boyle visit a wonderful review on www.thetouristczar.com

Boyle Courthouse

The redevelopment of the courthouse is a priority for Boyle and for the Chamber. In recent weeks, the first phase of this work has been completed with repairs being carried out to the roof and windows to the front of this landmark building. Support for this work has already been secured from both the Heritage Council and the Irish Georgian Society. It is hoped that the courthouse will in due course provide a permanent home for the Boyle Model Railway and a tourist attraction to bring more visitors from Lough Key into our town. Although it will be necessary to obtain grants to complete the planned works, the Chamber is committed to providing financial support to this worthwhile initiative.

Boyle Christmas Lights now exceed a value of €30,000 with fabulous feature pieces for the town, this was a Chamber0-led initiative over the last two years which in addition to an array of wonderful Christmas lights has also brought great comradery amongst the community and businesses through the erection and taking down of the lights and of course our Good Friday annual Bright Sparks Quiz. Thanks to all our volunteers and supporters for Our Christmas Lights.

The Chamber Lotto represents a very important part of the fund raising required to enable us work on projects for the town or support other organisations in doing their invaluable work, and we sincerely thank all our regular supporters of the weekly Lotto, who can take a bow when admiring any of this work that has been undertaken for the betterment of Boyle.

Boyle Chamber will liaise closely with Boyle Town Team working concurrently on:

• Supporting Boyle Courthouse and Model Railway Tourist Attraction
• Integrating proposed Cycle routes with wider tourist attractions
• Furthering the Town Enhancement Plan initiated by Boyle Chamber together with Tidy Towns in a funding application

As always we appeal to all businesses to make contact with any of us and get involved as the more people, with ideas and varying interests in Boyle, the stronger our voice, a Proactive Chamber - all working towards a united goal – to improve Business and attractions in Boyle. New people will bring new fresh and positive ideas. More established people have the very valuable gift of experience, so let nothing stop you….

Recipes 01

A typical Home, Bar Food or Restaurant menu consists of :
Soups/Starters | Main Courses | Desserts/Cakes | Beverages

Whether you eat in New York, Sydney, London or here in Boyle, I hope to have something of interest for you. So, as the song says,"let's start at the beginning"...

Potato Soup (4 servings)

1.5 pints water

1 pint milk

2.5 lbs. potatoes

pinch of thyme

1 whole clove

salt and pepper

Peel and slice the potatoes and onions. Add to pot together with water, thyme and whole clove. Bring to boil, then cover and simmer for 1 hour. Run electric blender through mix. Stir in milk, salt & pepper. Heat without boiling. Serve topped with chopped fresh parsley or gratred carrot and brown bread.

Onion Soup (4 servings)

2 lbs. onions

1 pint water

1 pint milk

1oz. butter

Slice of Bread (thick)

Slice onions and fry in butter until cooked but not browned. Add water, pepper, salt and bread. Bring to boil & simmer for 20 minutes. Run electric blender through mix. Stir in milk. Heat without boiling. Serve topped with freshly made toast crutons and a tablespoon of double cream.

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Soup and brown bread can be a meal in itself, and here's a great brown bread recipe

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Brown Bread

Many are convinced that making bread is quite beyond them, not a bit of it, anyone but anyone could make this bread. There are several variations on this theme, all are quick and easy to make and keep for several days.

Ingredients:

14 ozs (400g/scant 3 cups) coarse stoneground wholemeal flour.

2 ozs (55g) white flour.

1 tablespoon bran

1 tablespoon wheatgerm.

1 level teaspoon sieved breadsoda, (bicarbonate of soda/baking soda).

1 teaspoon salt (effects texture!!)

1 teaspoon soft brown sugar

1 egg

15 fl. ozs (450ml/1.5 cups) buttermilk or sour milk approx.

2 tablespoons unscented oil (sunflower), keeps bread fresh for longer.

You’ll also need:

Large mixing bowl

Loaf tin - 9" x 5" x 2"

Preheated oven to 200c/400f/regulo6.

The Fun bit:

Put all the dry ingredients, including the sieved breadsoda into a bowl, and mix well. Whisk the egg, add the oil and most of the buttermilk. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid. Mix well and add more buttermilk if necessary. 

The mixture should be soft and slightly sloppy. 

Pour into an oiled tin and bake for 60 minutes approx, or until the bread is nice and crusty and sounds hollow when tapped. Cool on a wire rack.

The best bit: 

Apply your favourite dairy spread, enjoy with hot tea and thoughts of Ireland.

BURGERS

Tips for perfect burger meals 

Divide mixture into evenly sized portions.

• Using wet hands (or food polygloves), knead each portion until it holds together. Flatten portions into rounds.
• Place on a baking tray and refrigerate until firm.
• Cook in vegetable oil on a preheated pan.
• Serve topped with chopped onion (uncooked) in a toasted seeded bun with accompanying salad, and choice of pickles, chutneys, sauces, relishes.

Beef Burgers (Serve 6)

1kg. lean minced steak

2 onions, finely chopped

1 egg, beaten

2cloves garlic, crushed

1 tablespoon chilli sauce

salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients well with your hands. shape and chill.

Cook 6-8 minutes each side. Serve garnished as desired.

Cheese and Bacon Burgers (Serve 6)

500g rindless bacon, chopped

250g lean pork, trimmed and chopped

half cup grated Parmesan cheese

half cup fresh breadcrumbs

pinch cayenne pepper

salt and pepper to taste

Place bacon, pork, cheeses breadcrumbs and seasonings in a food blender/processor and process until finely chopped. Shape and chill.

Cook 6-8 minutes each side. Serve garnished as desired.

DESSERTS

New York Cheesecake 

1 lb. Philadelphia cream cheese

1 cup sugar

3 large eggs

3 1/2 tbs. lemon juice

1 tsp. vanilla

1/8 tsp. salt

Beat cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, incorporating them well. Beat in lemon juice, vanilla and salt, lastly adding sour cream. 

Use an 8 inch circular tin, about 2 1/2 inches high. Line the bottom and sides with silicone or wax paper to allow for easy removal when cooked.

Line the bottom of the tin with your favorite biscuit crumble mixture, pressing down to form a crust. Pour the batter into prepared pan. Place on a baking tray. Bake for 45 minutes at 350f in the centre of oven. Then turn off oven for 1 hour

Do not open oven door thus releasing heat

Cover and refrigerate overnight. When un-moulding the cake, let it stand for several seconds on a hot burner. Loosen edges with a sharp knife. Place a plastic-lined plate on top and invert. Remove base and paper, then turn cake over again onto a serving plate.. Add your favorite fruit topping and serve.

Death By Chocolate

2 lb chocolate

3 cups thick whipped cream

8 egg yolks

1/4 cup raspberry liquer

1 cup sugar

Melt chocolate with cream in a bowl over hot water and place aside to cool. Again over the hot water bath, beat together the egg yolks, sugar and liquer until thick enough to lay back on itself momentarily.

Fold the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture, blending well. Pour into lined loaf tin and chill overnight.

To serve, splash and spatter raspberry onto serving plate, to resemble blood. Place a slice of Slice the Death on the splattered raspberry.....enjoy if you are not afraid of high cholestrol foods.

BEVERAGES

Irish Coffee

1 measure of Irish whiskey

2 tspns. brown sugar

strong hot coffee

whipped cream

Heat a 6oz stemmed glass. Half fill with very hot, strong coffee. (Place a teaspoon in the glass before adding the coffee to prevent glass cracking). Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Add whiskey and top up with coffee to within half inch of top of glass. Spoon on whipped cream and serve.

Punch

1 measure of Irish whiskey

1 teaspn. sugar

1 half slice of orange

1 half slice of lemon

6/8 whole cloves

Stud the orange & lemon slices with cloves. Heat glass, add sugar, orange and lemon. Stir in boiling water and whiskey. (Place a teaspoon in the glass before adding the water to prevent glass cracking ). Serve and wait for compliments.

Lough Key Classic thank you

The Lough Key Classic Cycling Sportive took place in Boyle o
Sunday May 15th in ideal weather conditions.

185 riders took to the roads of Roscommon, Leitrim and Sligo in what has been described as one of the best sportives held so far this year in Ireland.

• Four organisations - Local branches Downs Syndrome Association, Sudden death in young sports people, Brothers of Charity and Boyle Scouts will benefit from the cycle and donations will be made and acknowledged in due course.

The event would not have been possible without the assistance of a large number of people to whom the Curlieu Wheelers club is gratefully indebted and would like to thank hereunder:

• All those who came to Boyle and participated in the 60k and 120k cycles: Gardai in Boyle, Carrick on Shannon and Roscommon Traffic Corps: Roscommon Co Co Boyle office: Sligo Co Co: Sean Tansey and Abbey Community College: Langan's Fruit & Veg: Ballyfarnon Community Centre: Geevagh Mens Shed and Honda 50 club:  Kieran Roddy Catering with Teresa O'Dowd and Mary Horan: Mick Finn, Mark Finn and Damian Moran: Catering staff - Helen, Betty, Monica, Valerie, Tara and Marie: all who brought in food: Girls who assisted at registration: marshals: stewards: Richard Kennedy and Londis: David Gunning Trailcycling: Boyle Scouts: Keith Conroy: Patrick's Well (for meetings): Order of Malta: local media: Padraig McCrann and Cooney Motors: Liam McNamara and Eugene O'Connor: Jim Gannon Vintage Bikes: Croghan Marshals John O'Dowd, Gary Beirne, Richie Gavigan, Noel Collins and David O'Connor and last but not least 93 year old Mrs Hughes in Kilmactranny who came out to the gate of her house and personally made a donation towards the event.

We are already looking forward to the 2017 Lough Key Classic.

Local Link Timetable

Horsemanship Training Course

New Horsemanship Training Course coming to Boyle VTOS Centre in conjunction with Lough Gara Stables.September 2016 (if enough interest)

Horsemanship 5M3371

1. Would you like to get a QQI Level 5 Qualification in Horsemanship?

2. This course could get you started in a new career in the Equine industry.

The purpose of this award is to enable the learner to work in a range of equine sectors or to progress to higher education.

Students will attend Boyle VTOS Centre for two days per week and two and a half days at Lough Gara Riding Stables.

Modules at Lough Gara Riding Stables

• Stable & Yard Routine 5N3355 ** Sport Horse Riding 5N3359 ** Equine Anatomy & Physiology 5N3360 Sport Horse Riding Instruction 5N3362

Optional - Horse Conformation and Evaluation 5N3361 Optional - Equine Nutrition 5N3363 Optional - Animal Welfare 5NO753

Modules in Boyle VTOS Centre

• Communications 5N0690 ** Work Experience 5N1356 ** Desktop Publishing 5N0785 Safety & Health in the Workplace 5N1794

Please contact VTOS Co-ordinator: Donal J. Farrell on 071 966 3246 or 086 826 2825 OR Mrs Adrien Kneale, Lough Gara Stables 086 893 8972 if interested. Modules marked with ** are Mandatory Modules and must be completed by each Learner.

Open day at Boyle VTOS centre on Thursday May 26th 10am to 3pm

Inernational Yoga in Boyle

International Yoga Workshop coming to Boyle

Christine Stewart will bring another great yoga workshop to Boyle this Wednesday, 11th May, with a 2½ hour workshop in Lough Key Forest Park Moylurg Room, 6.30 to 9pm

Peter and Jack are both Anusara Hatha Yoga teachers, with many years of multiple styles and the philosophy of yoga.

Peter (www.facebook.com/pgoodm01)

who is based in Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, is in Ireland for two weeks teaching in six venues including studios in Cork, Waterford, Belfast’s Flow Yoga, Ardnahoo and Boyle. A senior Anusara Yoga teacher he will be teaching twists, seated poses and hip openers.

Jack (www.jackharrison.com)
who is based in Co Clare has 3 superb albums, and will weave music, poetry and song into the practice.

Rhis will be an All Levels Workshop costing €35 if prepaid and €40 on the day. If you have a yoga mat, blanket and props please bring them. Booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

To Book please contact Christine on Facebook at Christine Stewart Yoga or 087 225 1138

Lough Key Classic Cycling Sportive 2016

Final arrangements are being put in place this week for this Sunday’s Lough Key Classic Cycling Sportive which will start and finish in Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

Organised by local cycling club – Curlieu Wheelers - the event will cover two distances – 120k for the more experienced cyclist and 60k for those who like a challenge.

Both routes will include the Geevagh – Highwood and Curlew Mountain climbs.

In addition there will be an optional King of the Mountains route taking in Staunton’s Brae just outside Ballyfarnon. Riders who want to undertake this challenge can turn off in Ballyfarnon and re-join the route again in Geevagh. There will be a time cut off for this section.

The 120k cycle sees riders leave Boyle at exactly 9am and head to Ballinameen, Croghan, Elphin, Hillstreet, Drumsna, Leitrim Village, Keadue, Ballyfarnon, Geevagh, Highwood, Corrigeenroe, Doon and then cross the N4 at Tawnytaskin to face the Curlew Mountain climb, crossing Garrow to the Ballymote road for the descent into Boyle.

The 60k route will see riders leave Boyle at exactly 10am and travel along the N4 to Ardcarne on to Keadue where they will join the 120k route.

There will be water stops along the way with the official food stop for both cycles in Ballyfarnon.

A welcome cup of tea will be available before the event in the Classic HQ in the Sports Complex where there will be adequate, secure parking and hot showers available.

A hot meal will also be served following the event.

The Lough Key Classic is a recognised Cycling Ireland sportive and is open to those aged over 18 only.

Participants for the 120k and 60k cycles can register at the Sports Complex in the grounds of Abbey Community College in Boyle on Saturday 14th from 5pm - 7pm and on Sunday 15th from 7am - 8.45am for 120k riders and 9.30am for 60k riders.

Entry is €20 for Cycling Ireland members and €25 for non Cycling Ireland members.

Last year’s successful event saw a donation being made to the Brothers of Charity. It is hoped to make a similar donation to a local charity again following this year’s event.

Curlieu Wheelers Chairman Eddie Conroy said this week that following the success of the last two Classic's, this year's sportive should attract a large number of cyclists to Boyle.

“The Lough Key Classic is organised by cyclists for cyclists and as such has been commented on as one of the best run sportives that was held in Ireland last year”

“This year will be no different, in fact I think it will be even better”.

 “It is important to make the riders feel welcome here in Boyle and in this regard, I would ask the residents of the town and those along the route to come out in large numbers to show support for the cyclists, especially as they enter Boyle to the finish on the Crescent around lunch time Sunday”.

“I would also ask dog owners on the route to ensure their animal is not roaming free on Sunday 15^th.”

“ This is a great event for Boyle and one that is now established on the town’s calendar” Eddie concluded.

LAOCHRA star for King House 1916 show

 

LAOCHRA star for King House 1916 show

FRESH from her celebrated performance in Sunday's Laochra spectacular in Croke Park, singer Lisa Lambe heads to King house, Boyle on Friday 13th May for another stirring 1916 commemoration.

Laochra, which followed the Allianz Football League Final, thrilled fans of all counties and colours, bringing together more than 3,500 performers.  It was Lambe, however, the former Celtic Woman star, who brought the crowd to its feet with her memorable rendition of The Foggy Dew.

Lisa now heads to Roscommon’s historic King House, in Boyle, to star with Simon Morgan in the western premiere of Myles Dungan's new 1916 show – The Count, The Countess & The Tommy.

May 13 is the date set for the first-ever west of Ireland performance of the show, which centres on the life and music of the celebrated Irish tenor Count John McCormack, and features some of the best-known songs of a hundred years ago.  The show is a centrepiece of broadcaster Myles Dungan's Paths To Freedom roadshow project, a unique package of lectures, presentations and shows remembering the Rising, one hundred years on. 

The Count, The Countess & The Tommy is hosted by Roscommon County Council Arts Office & Library Services, as part of the Roscommon Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme.

Fronted by RTE presenter and historian Dr. Myles Dungan, the Paths To Freedom programme brings together a team of broadcasters, authors and key academics with important things to say about the legacy of 1916, plus a cast of international performers, for a special two-part commemoration, comprising…

·         A day-long programme of talks and presentations on 1916 and its legacy

·         An evening performance of the music of the era, showcasing the songs of John, Count McCormack.

Talks Programme

On Friday, May 20, King House, will welcome a selection of top-class speakers, academics and personalities for a series of presentations on the changing nature of Irish politics, work, class and gender roles in the years leading up to independence, explaining that the Rising was part of a wider narrative, not the whole story.

Schedule

10am               Introduction

10.15               Catriona Crowe – Ireland Before The Rising

11am               John O’Keeffe – The Psychology of The 1916 Leaders

11.45               Break

12pm               Dr. Myles Dungan – Sentenced To Death - The Rebel Courts Martial

12.45               Lunch

2pm                 Jonathan Creasy – Writing Ireland: Poetry, Prose and Songs of 1916

2.45                 Damian Shiels – The Conflict Landscape of Ireland

3.30                 Ian Kenneally - Propaganda During 1916

4.15                 Open Forum

Evening Show

King House will also offer a complementary musical show – The Count, The Countess & The Tommy – featuring songs and stories from the era of the Rising, centering on the music of the celebrated Irish tenor Count John McCormack, and also the popular songs of Lena Ford, Ivor Novello, Stanley Kirkby & George M. Cohan.

This show, written by RTE’s Myles Dungan, will be presented at King House on Friday, May 13, at 8pm and will feature headline acts, including...

Simon Morgan:  A world-renowned baritone, Simon has performed in venues across Ireland, the UK, Argentina, Chile, Barbados, San Diego, Chicago, New York, Monaco, Florence and Verona. 

Lisa Lambe:  A singer and actress, Lisa is best known for her work at the Abbey and the Gate, and as a member of international singing sensation Celtic Woman. 

Brendan MacQuaile:  Brendan is a classically trained baritone who performs widely in Ireland and internationally, and features regularly on TV and radio.

Tickets for both events are free, but booking is essential. 

CONTACT:

T:                    071 966 32 42

E:                    kinghouse@roscommoncoco.ie or tegan@roscommoncoco.ie

W:                   www.kinghouse.ie

Facebook:     /KingHouseBoyle

The Paths To Freedom programme is offered by Roscommon County Council in collaboration with Pegasus Consulting, the company behind the hugely successful history projects The Fighting Irish (2010) and The Great War Roadshow (2014-15).

 

                

Job Vacancy at Vention

Production Supervisor

Vention Medical Ireland is a dynamic and rapidly growing manufacturer of sterile medical devices and components for worldwide markets.  Based in the North Roscommon town of Boyle, 25 minutes from Sligo Town, the Company is fully integrated covering all aspects of device manufacture from design and development, to sales. We now require a:

Production Supervisor

Reporting to the Production Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for the organization and supervision of a manufacturing area to deliver on business objectives.   

The successful candidate will have responsibility for leading, coordinating, up skilling and empowering a production team to deliver on department performance metrics. 

Additional key responsibilities include maintaining excellent cross functional communications, managing costs, driving continuous improvement of processes and manufacturing systems, managing compliance with H &S, quality and company policies and procedures   

Candidates should have excellent leadership skills; people management experience, good organizational, motivational, self-starting skills and the ability to multi-task are highly desired. 

The Production Supervisor   will have a science/technical or  primary degree or equivalent in Polymer, manufacturing , Science / quality / mechanical engineering.

S/he should have a minimum of 5 years’ experience, preferably with at least 3 years in a manufacturing environment in a supervisory role. Medical device or diagnostics manufacturing experience would be an advantage.

The position may require working a rotating 3 shift cycle shift.

To apply please send Curriculum Vitae to:

Lisa McNama, Vention Medical Ireland, Abbeytown, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

Email: lmcnama@ventionmedical.com

Closing Date: 6th May 2016

Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster --- 30 years on

Ardcarne Garden Centre (Boyle) Ltd

Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 071-9667091.   Fax: 071-9667341.   Email: landscaping@ardcarne.ie

Ardcarne Garden Centre --- 30 years in business

Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster --- 30 years on

Ardcarne Garden Centre’s 30 year anniversary coincides with the 30 year anniversary of the Chyrnobl nuclear disaster.

Marie O’Conghaile and other Irish volunteers have taken up a challenge at the Gorodishche orphanage in Belarus; she will bring 10 orphan children, all with either physical or intellectual disability, on a holiday to the Belarussian capital Minsk.
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In fact, in 3 month’s time, Marie will be on her 6th mission to the Gorodishche Orphanage, where Burren Chernobyl – a charity based in Ennistymon, Co. Clare – has been a constant and regular supporter over the past 20 years.  Burren Chernobyl has contributed major support in the form of modernising the orphanage, providing care equipment and generally improving the lot of the orphans through the volunteer programme.

“Most of the orphans have never been outside the orphanage” says Marie.  “Most of them have no family or no visitors, so the one week’s holiday in Minsk is a major highlight in their lives.  These children just want to be like other children”

The children range from 4 years up to 18 years old.  Their disabilities mean they cannot survive without constant care.  Many Irish people --- and some from Co. Roscommon --- spend a week or so in the orphanage each year, giving extra care to the children.

A fund-raising BBQ will take place on Saturday 7th May next at 7pm as part of the 30 year anniversary of Ardcarne Garden Centre, and all the proceeds will be given to Marie to fund the holiday for the orphans.  It is extra special, this year, because 2016 is also the 30th anniversary of the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl.