Local Notes: Profits of book presented to Ballyglass RNLI.

Sheila Tallott and her son Christopher presenting Ballyglass RNLI with a very generous donation from profits of a book that was published by the Bórd na Móna ESB committee called “Powering the West” which the late Chris Tallott senior was involved.
Sheila Tallott and her son Christopher presented Ballyglass RNLI with a very generous donation from profits of a book that was published by the Bórd na Móna ESB committee called “Powering the West” which the late Chris Tallott senior was involved in. It is always heartening to see people who are grieving the loss of a cherished family member; thinking of others and wanting the memory of their loved one continue to help others.
Chris Tallott was an employee at the ‘Power Station’ and in his retirement worked on the memory of the heritage of ‘The Bord’. Chris was a very proud Erris man and it was wonderful to receive this donation which honours his memory and legacy. May Chris’ gentle soul rest in eternal peace.
Huge thanks to Sheila and Chris Jnr. Chris Jnr is wished safe travels as he returns to Australia.
It was with the heaviest hearts that we learned recently of the devastating news of the untimely passing of our beloved teammate and friend, Evan Irwin. Evan was more than just a part of our darts family; he brought energy, heart, and a spark of joy every time he stepped into a room or to the ochie. His passion for the game was unmatched, and his friendship meant the world to so many.
Evan, you’ll always be part of this team. You left us far too soon but your memory will forever live on in every match, every laugh, and every moment we share in this community. Please keep his family and closest friends in your thoughts as we all try to process this unimaginable loss. Rest in peace, Evan we’ll miss you more than words can ever say.
This month marks the start of suicide prevention month. It is a time to commemorate the lives lost due to self-harm, and to recognise the numerous people, families, and communities that have been in touch with it. Additionally, it is a moment to spread hopeful messages and increase awareness of suicide prevention. Now is the moment to bring attention to this pressing issue.
This month, we work to inspire hope, and provide essential information to those who have been impacted by doing self-harm. Making sure that students have access to the programs that are needed to talk about suicide prevention.
Time to raise awareness, offer support, and remind each other that every life is worth fighting for. This month, focus is on those who are battling suicidal thoughts, those who have lost someone to suicide, those who have attempted, and those who may feel alone or scared to speak up. It is a reminder that mental health struggles are real, but so is hope. Together, people can break the stigma, provide the support needed, and ensure that everyone knows they are not alone. Let’s be the light for each other and spread love, compassion, and understanding.
You are not alone. Reach out, share your pain, and let others help carry the load. Always remember that you are loved, you are valued, and you matter.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Suicide prevention awareness month is a time to shed light on the darkness of suicidal thoughts and to offer hope and support.
Let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a community where everyone feels safe and seen. Remember, there is help available, you are not alone, and there is always a reason to keep going.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help. you can visit https://findahelpline.com/ to see your country’s suicide prevention hotline.
There was no winner of this week’s Kiltane GAA Club weekly lotto jackpot of €7,500, with the two €50 winners being Peter McManamon, Glenturk and Ann Barrett, Geesala while Oliver Munnelly, Geesala and Harry Barrett, Mountjubilee both won €25. The two online winners were Bridie Healy, Naas €50 and Karen Munnelly, Mountjubilee €25.
Bingo will take place in the GAA complex Bangor this Tuesday, September 9, at 8pm. The jackpot will be €700 in 49 calls or less.
Congratulations to club player Jamie Ruddy who was a member of the Mayo U15 football team that beat Kerry in the All Ireland final recently and to Martin McManamon €1,000, as well as Myra Corr, Shane Lindsay and Reeyah Sweeney all €200 winners in recent Club Development Draws.
Would you like to join in a free fun-based interactive cooking course? ‘Healthy Food Made Easy’ is a community based healthy food and nutrition course being delivered in the Erris and Achill areas. It is delivered over the course of 5/6 weeks whereby the attendees enjoy participating in practically preparing, cooking and tasting foods. The emphasis throughout the course is on group learning rather than formal teaching. It is open to all ages and abilities, so by joining for 90 minutes it will help you to shop smart and save money while eating a healthy balanced diet.
The next course will start on Wednesday, September 10 and continue to October 15, from 7-9pm at the Bangor Community Hall. A qualified dietician be present on October 8, to answer any of your questions. For more information or to book your place call Emma on 087 213 3241 or email: hseslaintecare@mayonortheastldc.com.
Béal an Mhuirthead / Belmullet is endeavouring to become a Gaeltacht Service Town (Baile Seirbhíse Gaeltachta), as part of a Department of the Gaeltacht initiative, based on Acht na Gaeltachta (2012). A plan is being prepared for the years 2026 to 2032 and as part of the consultation process people are invited to please complete a short questionnaire as research. This survey can be done online or you can get a hard copy in Áras Inis Gluaire, Belmullet. The online survey is available on the Facebook Page of Belmullet Tidy Towns (Baile Slachtmhar Bhéal an Mhuirthead) or email bailegaelach.banmh@gmail.com for a link. People can also get the survey by scanning the QR code with your phone - which is on posters in public spaces all over Belmullet Town and Erris. The survey closes at the end of September. Even if you don't speak Irish, your opinion is important. The information collected is confidential and peoples identity will remain anonymous. The organisers appreciate your assistance with this research - míle buíochas.
Go along to Carrowmore Lake on Sunday, September 28, to see what coastal rowing is all about. The event is free with thanks to the Sheskin Fund and is open to over 12’s beginning at 11am until 4pm. There will be rowing machine demonstrations to show how to improve technique and posture, water safety tips, a demo on a boat capsizing, the do’s and don’ts while on the water, and how not to panic, boat setup rig and adjust the boats to each individual rower and on the water practise all the different techniques and strokes you learned on the rowing machine and apply them on the water and after all that a chance to row of course. There will be a BBQ afterwards. Call Emmer on 086 3132082 for more information.
The Cumann na dTuismitheoiri SN Dhumha Thuama big raffle draw took place recently in Holmes of Doohoma, and what a night it was. Celtic rock band Kell kept the crowd on their feet well into the small hours. On the night, the committee were delighted to receive two incredible contributions towards the development of the new MUGA Pitch: €1,200 from the Doohoma Golf Club fundraising event, presented to committee members; and £2,000, a hugely generous donation from John Barrett, presented on his behalf by Marty Barrett.
Congratulations to the raffle winners; 1st €500 Center Parcs voucher went to Padraig O’Donnell, North Coast Rd; 2nd €250 Westport House voucher was won by Penny Sweeney, Tallaghanduff; and 3rd a hamper went to Darragh Gaughan, Bunnahowen.
‘A massive thank you to everyone who bought tickets, came along, donated, or helped out – together we’re one step closer to making the MUGA pitch a reality’, said a spokesperson.
Join the children's choir and nurture your child's love for music. Children aged 7-17 years old starting on Tuesday, September 16, from 5.30-7pm for 15 weeks. The cost is €45 per child for the term, €75 for families with multiple children. The first week is free; full payment due on week 2 with parental involvement. A rota for at least 2 parents to be present with the choir leader at all times will be discussed and organised. Contact 086 3587418 to confirm your interest and reserve your child's spot.
Recently Erris Family and Community Support Centre bid farewell to acting co-ordinator, Catherine Meenaghan. Catherine had been covering maternity leave for the last 12 months and in that time contributed a great deal to the centre. She worked hard to ensure efficiency, good practice and good governance while also overseeing community initiatives and events.
The Board of Management thank her for her dedication, diligence, hard work and support. They wish Catherine all the very best in all her future endeavours. The board welcome back co-ordinator, Leanne Barrett and look forward to working with her again in developing the project.
If you require information, advice or support, contact coordinator@errisfcsc.ie or 087 0670989.
The annual Jonathan Shevlin memorial match will be played on Friday evening, September 12, in St. Brendan's College, GAA pitch at 6.30pm. All proceeds will go to Cara Iorrais. Refreshments will be served afterwards and all are welcome.