Local Notes: Our Lady's Secondary School, Belmullet U19 team are Connacht Champions.
Our Lady’s Secondary School U19 Soccer team became Connacht Champions by defeating Dunmore Community College recently pictured with management.
The TY students from Our Lady’s Secondary School recently returned from their annual international trip to Barcelona. They enjoyed a guided tour of the city, a visit to the Barcelona Aquarium and a cruise around Barcelona’s Port. Students also enjoyed spending time at the beach, swimming pool and shopping and bowling in their spare time. They were lucky enough to visit the theme park ‘Portaventura’ for a day of adrenaline filled adventures in the sunshine. The TYs sincerely thank Mr Rory Upton, Ms Shauna Carolan and Ms Cora Duffy who accompanied them on this magnificent trip.
Well done to Josh Lavelle and Michael McGowan who reached the Student Enterprise National Finals in Mullingar with their Mini Company business ‘The Wine Waiter’. The lads represented Mayo in the senior category after winning the regional final in Ballina in March. A great achievement.
Our Lady’s Secondary School are Connacht Champions after a spectacular final against talented Dunmore team, in a game that will live long in their memory. The school defeated an exceptional Dunmore side in the last minute of normal time. They took control early in the game through Oisín Reilly, before Dunmore equalised before half time. In an energy-sapping second half, Kian Carey produced an excellent cross and Luke McManamon rose highest to head them back in front. However, their opponents again fought back and levelled the game with a well-taken effort. The game looked to be heading to extra time as they approached the 90th minute. Conor Conmy took possession of the ball and curled a screamer into the top corner of the net. It was a goal worthy of winning any match and it was ultimately the decider in this Connacht final. Harry Reilly and Joe McNulty celebrate yet another provincial title, and many of the 6th years ended their football careers in Our Lady's in spectacular fashion. Well done to all involved. A special mention for the Cuffe family who provided pre and post-match refreshments for the school. It was much appreciated.
The Erris/Achill Fine Gael district executive recently held its AGM in the Castle Inn in Glencastle. There was a large attendance of delegates/members/supporters present from the various branches; also present from the various branches was Minister Alan Dillon TD, Kiera Keogh TD, Senator Mark Duffy and Councillor Gerry Coyle. All were welcomed by the out-going chairman Philip Irwin. A discussion took place on local and national matters, Minister Dillon, Kiera Keogh and Senator Duffy addressed the meeting and outlined the Government policies for Mayo and the West and that the present Government were working well.
Kiera Keogh said she will be starting her clinics in Erris. Senator Duffy said he would raise any local issues in the Senate. Councillor Gerry Coyle spoke on local matters, including roads. A minute's silence was observed for the late Anthony Conmy, Toorglass ,who was a party activist for many years. The out-going chairman, Philip Irwin did not seek re-election.
The following officers were elected: President Eamon Munnelly, chairman Leonard Shevlin, Belmullet; vice-chairperson Seamus Cosgrove, Bangor Erris; secretary Micheál J. Deane; assistant secretary John Munnelly, Geesala; joint treasures are Philip Irwin, Glenamoy and Pat Barrett, Mountjubilee; press officer Micheál J. Deane.
Tributes were paid to the late Michael Farrell and Frank Maughan, Belmullet, who were lifelong party supporters. A retirement function for former TD Micheál Ring will be held Munnellys Geesala in the autumn. Out-going officers were thanked for their hard work for the party.
There was no winner of the lotto jackpot on the draw of May 8. The numbers drawn were 3, 22, 24, and 1 and the lucky dip winners were €50 Peter McDonagh (Geesala) and €25 was won by Bernie Cawley (Belmullet). The lotto jackpot in now €19,700. Players can play in several local pubs and can play online via the link in the weekly posters available in Eurospar (Belmullet), Cuffes Centra (Belmullet), An Builín Blasta and in the Civic Centre.
Eoin McGrath continues with his wonderful work as Club Development Officer. Eoin is now providing skills workshops in S.N. Eachléim agus S.N. Corrchloch and the club thanks all the teachers in the national schools around Erris that has helped the programme since the beginning of the year. Go mbeidh gach rath ar an obair.
The U14 team played their second game in the Táin óg league vs Maigh Turadh on a beautiful sunny evening in Castlebar recently. The increased competencies of the players were on display against a sporting Maigh Turadh team and the club appreciates the efforts of the parents that travelled to watch the game. Ar scáth a cheile a mhaireann muid.
The league now moves into playoff phase and then the crossover phase with Ulster counties and the club look forward to making new friends over the next few weeks. Training continues in the Town Park (behind Civic Centre), every Tuesday evening from 6 to 7pm for all underage players up to 14 years old (boys and girls).
The Ruddy/Mangan Family is overwhelmed with gratitude for your kindness and generosity. Your donations to the iDonate page have brought them comfort and support during these challenging times with heartfelt thanks.
On April 21, Noreen Ruddy and her three children - Kaitlyn, Matthew, and Eva, were involved in a devastating road traffic accident in Sligo. All four were hospitalised with serious injuries. Noreen is currently receiving treatment in Beaumont Hospital, Matthew is in Temple Street Children Hospital, and Kaitlyn is recovering after multiple surgeries in the Mater Hospital. Thankfully, Eva has been discharged and is now home.
The injuries sustained by Noreen and Matthew are life-changing, and both face a long road ahead with at least 12-18 months of rehabilitation. Their lives and those of their loved ones have been turned upside down. Since the accident, Martin, Jack, and the extended Ruddy and Mangan families have been by their sides, offering love and support through this incredibly difficult time.
This fundraiser has been set up to help support the family through the many challenges ahead - emotionally, physically, and financially. Any support you can offer, big or small will make a real difference in their journey to recovery.
Thank you for keeping them in your thoughts and for any help you can provide.
Congratulations to Niamh Walsh, representing St Brendan’s College who competed in the Irish Schools Track and Field Connaught finals in Athlone, where she won silver in the intermediate javelin. Niamh will go forward to the All-Ireland finals at the end of May.
A tractor/trucks and vintage car rally will be held in memory of Tommy Murphy on Sunday, June 1. Registration will be held at Una’s in Blacksod from 12 noon to 2pm. All proceeds are in aid of the Erris Family and Community Support Centre.
Tullaghan Bay Rowing club extend thanks to all who took part in the Mayo Sports Partnership Bike Week event, to Garda Hugh Egan and Garda Sarah McLaughlin for the Road Safety Talk and to Michael Bikes, Belmullet, for his assistance and support. As a thank you, all participants received bike lights, hi- vis vest and bag and goody bag. Finally thank you to club members Lorraine, Saoirse, Danielle and Mary Doocey for stewarding.
What a day recently at the Swift Irish Masters Coastal Rowing Championships, Glenarm, County Antrim hosted by Older Fleet Rowing Club. Emma Gaughan and Kathleen Doocey were in action on the day. In the double they came fourth narrowly missing out on a medal and Emma had a great race in the single finishing fourth, and Kathleen finished fifth. It was a great experience, paving the way for a bigger masters crew from the club at the next regatta.
There was no winner of this week’s Kiltane GAA Club weekly lotto jackpot of €5,900, with the two €50 winners being; Tony Reape, c/o Marietta Corrigan and Aishling Barrett, Geesala while Peter McDonagh, Geesala and Odhran Carey, c/o Imelda Cosgrove both won €25. The two online winners were Cora Clarke, Dublin €50 and Caroline McDonagh, Geesala €25.
Bingo will take place in the GAA complex Bangor this evening, Tuesday, May 20, at 8pm. The jackpot will be €1,100 in 55 calls or less.
At the Cumann Rince Náisiúnta (CRN) Irish open championships 2025 in Dublin recently (Irish Dancing) congratulations to Sarah Keane from Barnagh daughter of Tina and PJ who was 5th in U16 Ardgrad, and 24th in championships, 1st in 2-hand, 3-hand and 4-hand and 2nd in Foirne team dance. Sarah is a member of the Sheila Moffatt school of Irish Dancing from Crossmolina.
The Erris Family and Community Support Centre CLG invite you to their annual general meeting on Wednesday, May 21, from 5.30 to 7pm at the IWA, Belmullet.
St Brendan’s College extend thanks to Elaine and Fania for facilitating the Skills at Work Programme 2024-25 with the second-year students recently. ‘Your guidance and support have made a lasting impact’. The school are also very grateful to their valued business partner, Vermilion, for making this collaboration possible with Saint Brendan’s College. Their wrap-up session last week in the sunshine was a fitting end to a wonderful journey.
Congratulations to the school's junior team who won the Colerain C final recently against Rice College, Westport.
A super game of football was played in perfect conditions in Crossmolina. Special mention to the four Leaving Certificate students who played their last game for the school, captain Paddy Dixon, corner forward Ben Wilson, half back Tadhg Walsh and corner back Jack Coyle.
Want to grow your local business online? Join Erris Chamber of Commerce for a dynamic morning of insights, strategy, and real-world success at Digital Marketing Strategies for Local Businesses on May 29 at the Broadhaven Bay Hotel. The event will be led by digital marketing expert Sabina Cox (25+ years of experience), and this hands-on event will cover the latest trends, practical tools and proven strategies to help your business stand out online and attract more customers. It will be ideal for small and medium-sized businesses ready to level up their digital presence.
As a bonus, discover how to access the Chambers Web Page Grant which is designed to support local businesses just like yours. The event takes place on May 29 from 9.30–11.30am in the Broadhaven Bay Hotel, Belmullet. Email info@errischamber.ie to reserve your spot.
Congratulations to Anthony Cafferkey on winning the pool tournament, and a big well done to John Canning for taking second place. Massive thanks to Fiona Cafferkey for generously sponsoring the prize money, to Liam Cafferkey for being referee and to all the competitors who took part. Ballycroy Wild West Festival also thank everyone who came out to support them . All proceeds from the event will be going to the Ballycroy Wild West Festival and your support means everything.
Erris Workability is hosting a Disability Awareness workshop on Monday, May 26, (rescheduled date) in Belmullet. This workshop is open to employers, employees, and school staff – anyone who could be working with a person with a disability or providing customer service to someone with a disability. Bear in mind that 80% of disabilities are actually invisible! The workshop will commence at 10am and finish at 2pm, including a lunch break with refreshments. There is no cost for this opportunity – it is being funded by Erris Workability. Places are limited. If you or your staff members wish to take part, get in touch asap – email siobhanscanlon@mayonortheastldc.com or call Carolyn on 087 398 0575.
Comhar Dún Chaocháin Teo is organising summer camps through the medium of Irish. The aim of the camps is to encourage children to speak Irish in an enjoyable environment. Camps will cater for children from 3 to 6 years of age (depending on demand). The week-long programme of activity includes various team sports, arts, crafts, traditional dancing, singing and board games. Muintearas Teo manages and monitors Scéim na gCampaí Samhraidh on behalf of Údarás na Gaeltachta and the scheme is funded by The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. This year, pending sufficient demand, camps will be held at the following venues (please note the age groups and dates):- June 23-27 Naíonra Ghleann na Muaidhe, Bun Altaí F26 Y2Y8 for children 3 - 6 years of age; June 23-27 An tSeanscoil, Ceathrú Thaidhg F26 Y8P7 for children 3 - 6 years of age. Application forms should be completed by Friday, June 13, to guarantee your child’s place, are available from Treasa on 097 88082 or 087 1251642 dunchaochain1@gmail.com and from Máire Cáit, Campa Ghleann na Muaidhe, 097 87838 or 087 9714395.
The draw was held on May 11, and the numbers drawn were; 03, 14, 16, 27 with no winner of the jackpot of €10,800. The House Prize 1of €100 was won by the Ladies Walking Group, Rossport and the €30 offline winners were Bernie/Michael McAndrew, Goola and Willie McHale (Pat), Muinginaune. The €30 online winners were Bernie Deane, Gorthbrack and Geraldine Mason, Pullathomas. The jackpot in the latest draw held on May 18, was €10,900 with the draw held in Connolly’s Stonefield.
