Local Notes: All the latest news from Claremorris
Fifth and Sixth class students performing at the official opening of Robeen N.S extension and astroturf pitch. The event also coincided with the 50th anniversary of the school. Picture: Trish Forde
The recent annual general meeting of Claremorris Agricultural Show reviewed what members described as another highly successful event in 2025.
Chairman Tom Connolly thanked everyone who contributed to last year's success, paying particular tribute to principal sponsors Corrib Oil Group for their financial, logistical, promotional and media support. He also wished the company every success with the opening of its new retail forecourt and service station in Ballina later this month.
Secretary Maureen Finnerty outlined the extensive planning involved both before and after last year's show and acknowledged the valuable support provided by the Irish Shows Association and its volunteers.
Treasurer Michael McGrath presented the financial report, describing 2025 as another successful year, helped by favourable weather conditions following the financial challenges posed by poor weather the previous year. He thanked sponsors, exhibitors, performers, local media, public representatives, volunteers and the thousands of people who attended.
The AGM also confirmed the committee officers for the year ahead. Cormac Hanley was elected Patron, Pat Prendergast as President, Colm Kitching as Vice President, Tom Connolly as Chairman, Michael McGrath as Vice Chairman and Treasurer, Maureen Finnerty as Secretary and Pauline Prendergast as Public Relations Officer.
Congratulations to St Colman's College first-year student Michael Crawley, following a remarkable sporting achievement by winning his first All-Ireland title last week.
Michael’s success at the All-Ireland Race Walking Finals held in Tullamore has been warmly welcomed by the entire school community, with staff and fellow students congratulating him on his dedication, hard work and determination.
Everyone at St Colman's College and the wider community, has extended their congratulations to Michael and wished him continued success in his athletics career.
Mount St Michael Secondary School has announced the appointment of Aisling McAlpine as its new principal, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the well-established school.
The appointment was confirmed by the board of management, which also paid tribute to outgoing principal Ciarán Ryan for his dedicated leadership and service over the past four years. The board thanked Mr Ryan for his contribution to the school and wished Ms McAlpine every success as she takes up her new role. It also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for all students.
Ms McAlpine joins Mount St Michael from St Joseph’s Secondary School, Castlebar, where she has served as Deputy Principal for the past five years. Originally from Athenry, Co Galway, and now living in Ballyheane, she brings extensive leadership experience, having spent the past 12 years in senior management positions across three schools.
Before taking up her role in Castlebar, she was principal of Presentation College, Headford, from 2018 to 2021. During her tenure there, student enrolment increased significantly from 720 to 820, while the school also secured and delivered a major Department of Education capital building project.
Ms McAlpine’s contribution to education extends well beyond individual schools. She serves on the National Executive of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, and is one of the five architects behind the Cothú programme, now operating in more than fifty schools nationwide.
Ms McAlpine began her teaching career at Mount Sackville Secondary School in Dublin before returning west. She is also continuing her own academic development and is currently completing a Doctorate in Education at the University of Glasgow.
Throughout her career, Ms McAlpine has built a reputation for people-centred leadership, innovation and a strong commitment to Catholic education. Her educational philosophy places student wellbeing at the heart of school life, believing that caring for students provides the foundation upon which excellence in teaching and learning is built. Her leadership is informed by the Mercy and Presentation traditions, with a strong emphasis on respect, hospitality, justice, compassion and care.
Claremorris South Responder Group has expressed its sincere gratitude to three local businesses whose support has helped fund the purchase of another lifesaving defibrillator for the community.
Through their recycling fundraising scheme, Gilligan's Bar, Warde’s Bar and The Lighthouse Diner have raised funds that have enabled the voluntary emergency response group to acquire an additional defibrillator, which will be carried and operated by one of its mobile responders.
The new piece of equipment will further strengthen the group's ability to provide rapid emergency care across the area when it is needed most.
In a special tribute, the defibrillator has been named “Gilly's” in honour of the late Martin Gilligan. Featuring the family logo and Martin's signature on its outer case, the device serves as a lasting reminder of the generosity, kindness and community spirit that made its purchase possible.
Members of Claremorris South Responder Group said the tribute is particularly fitting given Martin's own commitment to helping others. As a first responder himself, he understood the importance of being available in times of emergency and dedicated his time to supporting people in need.
The group described the naming of the defibrillator as a meaningful way of recognising Martin's legacy of service and care within the community.
Claremorris South Responder Group also acknowledged the wider community support behind the initiative and thanked everyone who contributed through the recycling scheme.
The additional defibrillator represents another important step in ensuring emergency response resources remain available throughout the area and highlights the difference that local fundraising and community partnership can make in helping to save lives.
Carmel Glynn was the winner of the Claremorris AFC 50/50 draw last week, collecting €576. Carmel purchased the winning ticket in PJ Byrne’s. The club congratulated Carmel on the win and thanked everyone who continues to support the weekly fundraiser.
Proceeds from the draw help support teams across all age groups and contribute to the ongoing development of the club. Tickets remain available online and through local shops and pubs.
Síle McCarthy was the winner of the Claremorris GAA Club 50/50 draw last week, taking home €1,201 with an online ticket.
The club congratulated Síle on her success in the draw and expressed its sincere appreciation to all who continue to support the weekly draw. Funds raised help provide coaching, improve facilities and support underage development. Tickets continue to be available online and from local retailers and pubs.
The death has occurred of John McLoughlin of Pollacton House, Carlow, and formerly of Meeltrane, Aghamore, Knock. John died peacefully at home on June 25th, surrounded by his loving family.
John was predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia, daughter Fiona, brothers Tom and Jim, and sisters Margaret and Mary. He will be sadly missed by his loving sons Seán and Niall, daughter Kate, daughters-in-law Aedeen and Elaine, son-in-law Anthony, grandchildren Ellie, Amy, Molly, Hannah, Lucy, Jesse, Martha, Edie and Jonah, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
John’s remains reposed at his home on Saturday, June 27th. His Funeral Mass was held on Sunday in the Church of the Holy Family, Askea, Carlow, after which he was laid to rest with his wife Patricia at Pollacton House.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Paddy Joe (Pat) Conway of Drumbrona, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow, and formerly of Scardaune, Claremorris.
Pat was predeceased by his parents Paddy and Maye, brothers Tommy and Martin, and sisters Maureen, Kathleen, Bridie and Teresa. He will be sadly missed by his beloved wife Eileen, sister Anne Harnett, brothers Colm and Brendan, nephews, nieces, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Pat’s Funeral Mass was held in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Crossboyne, on Tuesday, June 30th, followed by burial afterwards in Crossboyne Cemetery.
May he rest in peace.
The death has occurred of Kathleen Devane of Leface, Ballindine. Kathleen died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on July 2nd. She was predeceased by her husband Michael, sisters Bridie, Nellie, Nora and Mamie, and brothers John and Freddie.
Kathleen will be sadly missed by her son Richard, daughters Maureen and Cathy, daughter-in-law Caroline, son-in-law Richie, grandchildren Mickey, Ashley, Jack, Erika, Jason and Beckie, great-grandson Darragh, brother Paddy O’Boyle, sister Anne Kenny, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Kathleen’s remains reposed in Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine, on Friday evening, July 3rd, with removal to St. Joseph’s Church, Ballindine. Her Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, followed by burial afterwards in Ballindine Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
