Local news: Funding boost for trio of water schemes
Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon paid a visit to Mayo last Monday where he undertook a number of engagements, including a visit to Colum Hession’s farm in Hollymount with Minister of State Alan Dillon TD, Mayo IFA chairman John Lynskey and Connacht IFA chair Brendan Golden. Minister Heydon concluded the day at the Ballinrobe Races.
A major boost for rural water services in the Claremorris area was confirmed this week, with the announcement of €1.4 million in funding for three local Group Water Schemes under the latest tranche of the Rural Water Programme.
The schemes at Liscat/Cullatinny, Ballyfarna/Magheraboy, and Skevard will share in the allocation.
This specific funding of €1,421,650 will support 418 connections across the three Claremorris-area schemes. The has been informed that these schemes are grouped together as part of a cluster receiving support under Measure A6 of the Rural Water Programme – the “Taking-in-Charge of Group Water Schemes” measure.
Measure A6 is designed to facilitate the transition of group water schemes to public ownership and management. It enables Uisce Éireann (formerly Irish Water) to take over the operation of schemes, ensuring long-term service delivery and maintenance.
The Rural Water Programme supports improvements to the quality, quantity, and reliability of water supply in rural areas not served by public mains. Group Water Schemes, which are run and maintained by local communities, play a key role in delivering water services across large parts of Mayo.
Further details on project timelines and implementation are expected to be confirmed by Mayo County Council in the coming weeks.
Claremorris National School recently wrapped up their Summer Programme which was packed with activity, creativity and fun. The programme, which was held over two weeks, offered a wide range of experiences designed to engage and entertain pupils during the summer break.
Among the many highlights was a visit from members of An Garda Síochána, who gave a hands-on demonstration of their equipment and spoke to the children about their role in the community. The visit was followed by a surprise appearance from Chase of Paw Patrol fame, which proved hugely popular with pupils.
An outing to Kids in Motion in Castlebar gave children the chance to climb, roll and jump to their hearts’ content, while back at school, pupils got moving with dance workshops from Sandra Ganley of Jiving Juniors and Stanislav from TaDa Dance, who introduced them to some lively hip hop routines.
Sensory play was also a key part of the programme. Children enjoyed making cloud dough using cornflour and conditioner, and there were opportunities for swimming at the McWilliam Park Hotel for some groups.
An Irish Sign Language (ISL) workshop with Cuileann Bourke introduced pupils to basic signing, including how to sign their names and hold a short conversation – an inclusive and engaging session that added a new skill to the children’s toolkit.
Other activities included a sports day, a soccer coaching session with Noel Mellett, and some well-earned treats – hot chocolate and snacks in the hall were especially welcome.
One of the final trips of the programme was a day in Westport. The group travelled by train and visited the Wild West play centre, before winding down the week with a movie screening and a special visit from Supermac’s on the last day.
The school extended particular thanks to Ms Cosgrove, who co-ordinated this year’s programme. Her efforts, as always, ensured a broad and engaging mix of activities. Thanks were also expressed to the wider CNS team who supported the camp throughout: Ms Hosty, Ms Mellett, Ms McLoughlin, Shelly, Josephine, Threasa, and both new and returning staff who helped the programme run smoothly.
Claremorris AFC will once again play host to one of the summer’s most anticipated youth football events, as the 3v3 Ireland Festival returns to Concannon Park on Saturday, August 2.
This fast-paced, small-sided format promises a full day of action, energy and entertainment for young footballers aged U10 to U15. Open to boys and girls of all skill levels – and to players from all clubs – the event offers a unique opportunity for teams to enjoy high-tempo, competitive football in a fun and inclusive environment.
Alongside the on-pitch excitement, the festival will also feature plenty of off-field activities to keep families and supporters entertained. Music, food stalls and fun day games will all be part of the atmosphere, making it a true community celebration of football.
Claremorris AFC has is inviting teams from across Mayo and beyond to register early and be part of what promises to be a packed and enjoyable day.
Claremorris AFC is gearing up to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a special event, the Generations Cup, set for August 2. This exciting day will bring together past and present players for a memorable reunion on the pitch, offering a chance to reconnect with old teammates and proudly wear the Claremorris jersey once again.
The day’s football action kicks off at 2:30pm with two semi-final matches, followed by a third-place playoff and then the final to close out the event. After the games, players and supporters can enjoy music, food, and refreshments at The Ranch Sports and Music Venue, starting from 7:30pm.
Registration for the tournament is €15 per player, with each participant receiving an exclusive Claremorris AFC 40th anniversary polo shirt as a keepsake. On the day, teas, coffees, and treats will be available at the clubhouse to keep everyone refreshed.
Claremorris Tidy Towns have announced the return of the SuperValu Residents’ Estates Competition for 2025. Now in its second year, the community-led contest invites local estates to enter by emailing claremorristidytowns1@gmail.com. Judging will take place in September, with results announced later that month.
Last year’s competition saw strong participation, with Cluain Aoibhinn crowned the inaugural winner. Judging focused on cleanliness, biodiversity efforts, and floral displays, assessed by independent experts. The organisers thank SuperValu Claremorris for their ongoing support.
Residents are encouraged to get involved and showcase their estates this year, promoting community spirit and environmental care.
Preparations are now well underway for what promises to be a memorable evening in Claremorris, as former pupils of St Colman’s College prepare to gather for a special 50th anniversary reunion. The event, scheduled for this Saturday, August 2, will take place at the Western Hotel, beginning at 6pm, and is centred around the class groups who entered the college in 1970 and sat the Leaving Certificate in 1975.
The reunion is not limited solely to those who completed the full five years. Organisers are keen to welcome anyone who attended during that era, even if only for a short time. According to school records, 67 first-year students were enrolled across two classes in September 1970, with around fourteen more joining in subsequent years through transfers or repeats. Sadly, six members of the group have passed away in the intervening years and will be remembered with fondness on the night.
The organising committee’s goal is to reconnect as many classmates as possible from the 1970–75 cohort, and they are appealing to the wider community to help spread the word.
A visit to the college itself forms part of the evening’s programme. A bus will depart the Western Hotel at 7pm for a short tour of the school grounds, returning to the hotel by 7.45pm. Former teachers and school bus drivers from the period have also been invited to take part in the celebrations. Later in the evening, buffet food will be served at 8.30pm, and a few short addresses will be given. However, the focus of the night is very much on informal conversation, laughter, and the opportunity to recall shared memories from five decades ago.
Anyone who was part of St Colman’s College during those years is encouraged to attend. For further information or to register your interest, contact can be made directly with the organising committee: Michael Clarke (086-8162559), Gay McManus (087-220 2011), Michael McGrath (mmcgrath1981@gmail.com), Alec Morley (086-3194453), Owen Treston (087-180 5818), or Pius Forde (087-6671773).
The Women’s Collective Claremorris is now inviting expressions of interest for its upcoming Women in Leadership Programme, starting this September. This free eight-week initiative is designed to empower women who want to make a positive impact in their communities, providing valuable skills, confidence, and networking opportunities.
Following the success of last year’s programme, the organisers are once again preparing a dynamic series of workshops and discussions aimed at inspiring local women to step into leadership roles. Places are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
For further information or to secure your place, contact the Women’s Collective Claremorris on 094-93-62096.
Congratulations to Maria Conlon who scooped €908 in last week’s Claremorris GAA 50-50 draw. Maria entered online and was drawn as the lucky winner of the weekly jackpot.
Well done to Anne Creighton, winner of Claremorris AFC’s 50-50 draw last week. Anne’s name was drawn from the entries and she took home a prize of €489. She purchased her ticket online.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre has announced a fresh range of community-focused initiatives for the coming weeks and months, offering a mix of practical supports, creative engagement, and child-friendly activities designed to serve local families and individuals of all ages.
Every Friday from 2pm to 4pm, the popular Friday Friends Over 55’s group continues to welcome anyone who would like to drop in for a cuppa and a friendly chat. It’s a great chance to connect, meet new people, and share stories in a relaxed setting.
Parents and carers are also invited to join Buggy Buddies, which meets every Thursday at 9:30am at Lake Park, Claremorris. This informal meet-up encourages families to bring along their little ones and buggies for a friendly walk and chat. It’s a great way to get fresh air, socialise, and enjoy time with others in the same stage of life.
For younger community members, a Zen PowerYoga for Children programme will begin on Thursday, August 14, running weekly from 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Open to children of all levels, the sessions blend physical activity with mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat and a warm blanket. To register, contact Laura on 083-0027345.
As part of its Back-to-School initiative, the Centre also offers free school uniforms to families in need. Thanks to donations and local support from Tesco Claremorris, a range of items are available. Parents and guardians can drop in Monday to Friday, between 9:30am and 5pm, to browse the selection.
For more information on any of the above programmes or to make a booking, contact Claremorris FRC at 094 937 7838 or email info@claremorrisfrc.ie.
Parents, guardians and grandparents of children with autism are invited to attend the Autism Parent Peer Support Group in Claremorris. The group meets at 7pm on the third Wednesday of each month at Cúram Family Centre, offering a warm welcome, a cup of tea, and a chance to chat with others in a similar position.
The death has occurred of Mary Noonan (née Morley) of Lisacul, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and formerly of Cloonfaughna, Bekan, Claremorris. Mary died peacefully at home on July 21, surrounded by her family.
Mary was predeceased by her husband Joseph, her brother PJ, sister Rena and her nephew Enda. She is deeply missed by her sons Paul, Shane and Barry, daughters Patricia, Deirdre, Anna Marie, Siobhan and Karen, her sister Bridget, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Seamus, Ray and Declan, daughter-in-law Fiona, Paul’s partner Clodagh and Barry’s partner Vicky, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends.
Mary’s remains reposed at The Sharkey Funeral Home, Ballaghaderreen on Wednesday evening. Funeral Mass was held on Thursday at Christ the King Church, Lisacul, with burial afterwards in Lisacul Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
